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Argosy Junction
The romance of the Montana Rockies has a pull on Matt Rushby that he's never fully understood. Sheep, mountains, and a family wounded by the spiritual abuses of a cult capture his heart on his first vacation from the metropolis of Rockland. While he learns how destructive the church can be to its own, the Argosys discover a Jesus they forgot.
300 pages, Paperback
First published May 31, 2009
About the author
Chautona Havig
266 books1,774 followers**fingers skittle across the keyboard. Stop. Eyelids blink over the top**
Oh, was this bio day? Oops! I forgot. I was lost in my latest manuscript. Umm... bio. Yeah.
Hi! I’m Chautona Havig. (for those who care, that’s Shuh-TONE-uh HAVE-ig). Yeah. Just work with me here. I should have used a pseudonym, but when you grow up with a name like Chautona, it kind of sticks.
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near. ~ Hebrews 10: 23–25
Those aren’t just words on a page for me–they’re why I write. I write to encourage my brothers and sisters in Christ. The stories I create are to make people laugh, cry, question, consider.
They’re for you.
When the world screams for hope, I try to point you to the true Source of hope–Jesus.
Sometimes life in the church no longer seems a refuge from the pain of a self-serving world around us, but through my stories, I try to point you to the only Refuge that can truly help–the Father’s Everlasting Arms.
And sometimes we just need an escape from the monotony, the emptiness we see around us. We need joy, laughter–what I like to call “just the write escape.”
Christian fiction without apology or pretense–lived, not preached.
What does that even mean?
It means I care–about you. About your walk with Jesus. I care about the words you put before your eyes, the mental pictures those words conjure. It’s difficult to express just how much I love my brothers and sisters in Christ. It’s difficult to share just how much I love you.
But I do.
And I write for you. I sit in my little house in California’s Mojave Desert and I write to show you why one sister believes one thing, why a brother believes another. I write to show you how some Christians handle trials or triumphs–for you. So when you’re faced with something–good or bad, it doesn’t matter–maybe it’ll spark a memory. Maybe that memory will smolder until you pull out your Bible and see what the Lord said about it–about His great love for you. For YOU!
And maybe, just maybe, you’ll share that love with another hurting, confused, or blessed-with-more-than-she-knows-what-to-do-with soul.
I just happen to think that’s the most blessed giving anyone could hope to receive.
Oh, was this bio day? Oops! I forgot. I was lost in my latest manuscript. Umm... bio. Yeah.
Hi! I’m Chautona Havig. (for those who care, that’s Shuh-TONE-uh HAVE-ig). Yeah. Just work with me here. I should have used a pseudonym, but when you grow up with a name like Chautona, it kind of sticks.
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near. ~ Hebrews 10: 23–25
Those aren’t just words on a page for me–they’re why I write. I write to encourage my brothers and sisters in Christ. The stories I create are to make people laugh, cry, question, consider.
They’re for you.
When the world screams for hope, I try to point you to the true Source of hope–Jesus.
Sometimes life in the church no longer seems a refuge from the pain of a self-serving world around us, but through my stories, I try to point you to the only Refuge that can truly help–the Father’s Everlasting Arms.
And sometimes we just need an escape from the monotony, the emptiness we see around us. We need joy, laughter–what I like to call “just the write escape.”
Christian fiction without apology or pretense–lived, not preached.
What does that even mean?
It means I care–about you. About your walk with Jesus. I care about the words you put before your eyes, the mental pictures those words conjure. It’s difficult to express just how much I love my brothers and sisters in Christ. It’s difficult to share just how much I love you.
But I do.
And I write for you. I sit in my little house in California’s Mojave Desert and I write to show you why one sister believes one thing, why a brother believes another. I write to show you how some Christians handle trials or triumphs–for you. So when you’re faced with something–good or bad, it doesn’t matter–maybe it’ll spark a memory. Maybe that memory will smolder until you pull out your Bible and see what the Lord said about it–about His great love for you. For YOU!
And maybe, just maybe, you’ll share that love with another hurting, confused, or blessed-with-more-than-she-knows-what-to-do-with soul.
I just happen to think that’s the most blessed giving anyone could hope to receive.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 10, 2022
I wasn’t sure if I was going to like this story or not. But I decided to give it a try.
The beginning pulled me in and I wanted to know what was going to happen with Lane, Matt, the “Brethren” and all the other characters. This author tackled a difficult topic, and I think she did it well. Befriending and helping people who have come out of a “christian” cult can’t be easy.
There were some kisses which I didn’t really like, and Matt’s constant playing with Lane’s hair really bugged me. There were also some times when it felt like information that I should have had was missing. Not sure if it had been edited out, or just not included for some reason.
Overall, I did enjoy most of this book. The differences between the sheep ranch in Montana and the inner city life in Rockland were vast and interesting.
The beginning pulled me in and I wanted to know what was going to happen with Lane, Matt, the “Brethren” and all the other characters. This author tackled a difficult topic, and I think she did it well. Befriending and helping people who have come out of a “christian” cult can’t be easy.
There were some kisses which I didn’t really like, and Matt’s constant playing with Lane’s hair really bugged me. There were also some times when it felt like information that I should have had was missing. Not sure if it had been edited out, or just not included for some reason.
Overall, I did enjoy most of this book. The differences between the sheep ranch in Montana and the inner city life in Rockland were vast and interesting.
January 17, 2022
I'm sad I didn't like this more, because I usually like Havig's books!
The characters:
The characters felt really alive and I enjoyed getting to know them. Their arcs did feel a little hurried at times, but that didn't bother me that much. I enjoyed that one of the side characters was special.
The Plot/Setting/Writing:
The plot moved just at the right pace. It did suddenly skip over a few months without much explanation until after, when the characters were talking about it.
The Setting made you feel like you were right there with them and as someone how enjoyed the Past Forwards series, it was fun to see another side of Rockview.
Content:
Sexual content: A lot of kisses between a not-yet-because-we-aren't-sure couple, several hugs between the same couple. One of the characters formally frequented the women of the night and that is talked over (not detailed), the female mc, though a rancher's daughter, seems to know nothing about these things.
Spiritual Content:
Matthew is a Christian but doesn't seem to take it seriously until Lane asks him. A lot of talking about cults, and how christians need to be accountable to each other. Some people were hurt because of cults.
Other content: some mentions of birth, some almost crude talk.
All in all, I don't really feel like re-reading this at all. I enjoyed the plot and the storyline, but did not enjoy how it was played out. I wish I had though. I usually really enjoy Havig's books.
The characters:
The characters felt really alive and I enjoyed getting to know them. Their arcs did feel a little hurried at times, but that didn't bother me that much. I enjoyed that one of the side characters was special.
The Plot/Setting/Writing:
The plot moved just at the right pace. It did suddenly skip over a few months without much explanation until after, when the characters were talking about it.
The Setting made you feel like you were right there with them and as someone how enjoyed the Past Forwards series, it was fun to see another side of Rockview.
Content:
Sexual content: A lot of kisses between a not-yet-because-we-aren't-sure couple, several hugs between the same couple. One of the characters formally frequented the women of the night and that is talked over (not detailed), the female mc, though a rancher's daughter, seems to know nothing about these things.
Spiritual Content:
Matthew is a Christian but doesn't seem to take it seriously until Lane asks him. A lot of talking about cults, and how christians need to be accountable to each other. Some people were hurt because of cults.
Other content: some mentions of birth, some almost crude talk.
All in all, I don't really feel like re-reading this at all. I enjoyed the plot and the storyline, but did not enjoy how it was played out. I wish I had though. I usually really enjoy Havig's books.
February 11, 2016
I liked this story a lot and I think it gives insight into how harmful cults are, even those who think they are starting out with the right message and meaning. Learned a lot.
Enjoyed the romance but Lane was extremely hard headed and unbending. Of course, that is what makes a great story when it turns around at the end.
After all this couple went through to be together Matt insists that he and Lane live with his parents (for years) after they are married. His parents need his financial assistance and he needs to save more to place a larger down payment on a home. It is my understanding that both parents work and they certainly don't live in luxury and he gives them a thousand dollars a month (but they told him they only needed $500) and will continue to do so after their marriage.
I'm not sure, after all they went through, if Lane should marry him now. His priorities seem flawed to me. I don't feel he should expect her to move in with his parents and you can tell she doesn't want to. What about the leave and cleave the Bible speaks of? Living with one's family is no way to start a marriage. Matt measures their relationship by the Word except for this one point. I also understand that there are quite a few differing opinions on what "leave and cleave" means. Been there and done that. It ended up destroying us.
I love the way Lane's family comes together and faces the past, seeks forgiveness, and looks to the future as well. It truly was a great story except the part that troubled me concerning them living with his parents.
Maybe I am looking at this selfishly.
Enjoyed the romance but Lane was extremely hard headed and unbending. Of course, that is what makes a great story when it turns around at the end.
After all this couple went through to be together Matt insists that he and Lane live with his parents (for years) after they are married. His parents need his financial assistance and he needs to save more to place a larger down payment on a home. It is my understanding that both parents work and they certainly don't live in luxury and he gives them a thousand dollars a month (but they told him they only needed $500) and will continue to do so after their marriage.
I'm not sure, after all they went through, if Lane should marry him now. His priorities seem flawed to me. I don't feel he should expect her to move in with his parents and you can tell she doesn't want to. What about the leave and cleave the Bible speaks of? Living with one's family is no way to start a marriage. Matt measures their relationship by the Word except for this one point. I also understand that there are quite a few differing opinions on what "leave and cleave" means. Been there and done that. It ended up destroying us.
I love the way Lane's family comes together and faces the past, seeks forgiveness, and looks to the future as well. It truly was a great story except the part that troubled me concerning them living with his parents.
Maybe I am looking at this selfishly.
August 16, 2018
This book took my breath away. I have been fortunate enough to be a part of two churches in my life that were and are very good to our family. I cannot even fathom how people can react like the people of Argosy did. At first, when Matt and Lane go out for breakfast and the waitress is so completely rude to Lane, I was in shock. What in the world had Lane done to deserve to be treated like that? Next thought: shame on me. No one deserves to be treated like that no matter what they have done. I held on to that thought for the rest of the book.
There is not a book that Chautona was written that I haven’t loved. She is not afraid to tackle tough topics. In fact she brings light to a lot of topics that we tend to brush aside and pretend don’t happen in real life. Wake up call – the things that happened in this book DO happen in real life. Just as Chautona shows in this book, there can be healing. The One who created us has the answers, and it is Him that we should be looking to for guidance and help. This is a book to share with your church members, your family and your friends. It may even be a book you need to read down the road again. Yes, it’s fiction. But don’t fiction books sometimes punch you in the gut and make you take a look in the mirror?
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
There is not a book that Chautona was written that I haven’t loved. She is not afraid to tackle tough topics. In fact she brings light to a lot of topics that we tend to brush aside and pretend don’t happen in real life. Wake up call – the things that happened in this book DO happen in real life. Just as Chautona shows in this book, there can be healing. The One who created us has the answers, and it is Him that we should be looking to for guidance and help. This is a book to share with your church members, your family and your friends. It may even be a book you need to read down the road again. Yes, it’s fiction. But don’t fiction books sometimes punch you in the gut and make you take a look in the mirror?
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 28, 2013
Would have rated this higher if it had not been for the ending. You could generally see where it was going, although there were a couple of major twists that made you wonder if you really knew. Then when the end came, it seemed like the whole story had been cheapened. Seemed the author just got tired of it all and quickly wrapped it up and a paragraph or two.
August 7, 2018
This novel is much more than a Christian romance. It includes insights about a Christian group that goes wrong. The men become very controlling and relegate women to a role of near servitude. We find out what happens when Matt, a healthy Christian, meets Lane, a woman deeply hurt by that cult-like group. There are the stirrings of romance but the obstacles separating the two are huge. The path to healing, restoration, and a good relationship between Matt and Lane is a complicated and bumpy one.
There are some great characters in the novel. I loved nine year old Patience, a girl just the opposite of her name. She had some good insights into situations that were fun.
There were many conversations in the novel about theology and God's love and that could have been trimmed a bit. Also, the road to romance was a long one that I also felt could have been trimmed.
I recommend this novel to readers who would like a good romance including an extensive exploration of being hurt by a religious body and the resulting struggle to again trust God and receive His love.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
There are some great characters in the novel. I loved nine year old Patience, a girl just the opposite of her name. She had some good insights into situations that were fun.
There were many conversations in the novel about theology and God's love and that could have been trimmed a bit. Also, the road to romance was a long one that I also felt could have been trimmed.
I recommend this novel to readers who would like a good romance including an extensive exploration of being hurt by a religious body and the resulting struggle to again trust God and receive His love.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
August 15, 2018
Argosy Junction
I loved how Lane and Matt meet, he was stuck out on her family’s land surrounded by sheep. Matt was on vacation and decided to take a picture of the sheep but got surrounded by the sheep and too scared to move.
Lane little sister was so special, has the cutest name of Patience. She nine years old and becomes good friends with Matt. Lane is a wonderful big sister.
After Matt vacation is over and he goes home they do a lot of emailing between him, Lane, Patience and even Lane’s father. I enjoyed that they kept in touch with each other, great dialogue.
They all have so much differences to work, which I won’t go into in my review. This was a very interesting and enjoyable book. I definitely found the characters so visual in my mind.
I received an complementary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit, I was not required to write an positive review.
I loved how Lane and Matt meet, he was stuck out on her family’s land surrounded by sheep. Matt was on vacation and decided to take a picture of the sheep but got surrounded by the sheep and too scared to move.
Lane little sister was so special, has the cutest name of Patience. She nine years old and becomes good friends with Matt. Lane is a wonderful big sister.
After Matt vacation is over and he goes home they do a lot of emailing between him, Lane, Patience and even Lane’s father. I enjoyed that they kept in touch with each other, great dialogue.
They all have so much differences to work, which I won’t go into in my review. This was a very interesting and enjoyable book. I definitely found the characters so visual in my mind.
I received an complementary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit, I was not required to write an positive review.
July 26, 2018
The author has given us a story with a sweet romance, but we also are shown how one cult was formed, and what it did to the faith these people once had.
There are some good chuckles, and loved the beginning of this read, but it did take a bit to get to the conclusion. You can picture a man terrified of sheep, and read to them, funny! The story does have good bones, but I was glad when I found the answers.
We move from rural, or ranch living to inner city and see the vast difference, but mostly we see what a cult does to friends and family, so sad.
I received this book through Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review.
There are some good chuckles, and loved the beginning of this read, but it did take a bit to get to the conclusion. You can picture a man terrified of sheep, and read to them, funny! The story does have good bones, but I was glad when I found the answers.
We move from rural, or ranch living to inner city and see the vast difference, but mostly we see what a cult does to friends and family, so sad.
I received this book through Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review.
March 15, 2020
I loved how the author portrayed such real characters with such real problems. I also liked how she showed what happens when churches do things to the extreme and that the damage done is very real, no matter the intentions.
This story is a great example of the power of forgiveness, righting wrongs, and the power of love.
This story is a great example of the power of forgiveness, righting wrongs, and the power of love.
August 16, 2018
Lane has been hurt and has turned away from Jesus. God is waiting for her to open her heart.
Matt is ever so faithful and wants to share God's love for Lane. But he must be careful to not scare Lane away from all that GOD can offer.
Can Lane and Matt have a future together? Can Lane learn forgiveness?
It's difficult to forgive when you have been hurt. But with forgiveness we are given a gift. I know of no one whom hasn't been wronged at some point in their life. If we don't let go, we are held hostage by all that is evil. Let God heal your soul.
I received this free to review.
About the Book
Book Title: Argosy Junction
Author: Chautona Havig
Genre: Christian Fiction/Romance
Release date: 1st edition: March 11, 2010 ; 2nd edition: August, 2018
“I want nothing to do with Jesus or God.”
After over twenty years of abuses from the cult-like church she grew up in, Lane Argosy has had it with God and His people. Though the Brethrentry to make Lane and her family’s lives unbearable, freedom from their warped brand of Christianity is sweet. She’ll never go back… never.
He just wanted to visit the country he’d explored through books. So, when Matt Rushby arrives in Argosy Junction, Montana, he expects idyllic meadows and craggy rocks towering above, old-fashioned friendliness and at least one or two cowboys. Instead, he finds familiar hatred and factions very much like the ones back home in Rockland’s inner-city gangs.
The Argosy family is disillusioned, broken, and floundering. Matt knows the answer is Jesus—just Him and not the trappings of a faith He never designed.
But how can Matt help them turn their hearts back to the Lord when he suspects Lane has stolen his?
Click here to purchase your copy!
About the Author
The author of dozens of books in a variety of genres, Chautona Havig lives and writes in California’s Mojave Desert where she uses story to nudge her readers to the feet of the Master Storyteller.
Guest Post from ChautonaWhat Do You Do When the Church Becomes Toxic?
You know how TV shows and movies like to make fun of bridezillas?
Yeah. I know. It can be funny.
But bridezillas aren’t just those gals on reality shows. They’re all over the church, too. People who allow their focus to get off the Bridegroom and onto “their day.” Instead of focusing on the One who loves them so dearly, Who has rescued them from the gutter and holds them close and tenderly, they focus on getting all the trappings right. The right wording, the right clothes, the right rules of…
UGH.
So many friendships have been ruined by a bride gone wild—so focused on details that she forgets the people she hopes will celebrate it with her. She forgets her groom. Unreasonable expectations of the day and of people lead to broken relationships and an ugly taint to what should be a beautiful occasion.
What I find interesting is that people will forgive a lot from a bridezilla. You hear things like, “Well, it’s such a stressful time,” or “She’ll come around after she settles in.”
And it’s true.
So, why don’t we have the same grace for the “bridezillas” of the church? When that deacon decides to become judge and jury of people’s spiritual state based upon what he thinks or knows someone has contributed to the church, why do we write off him and the rest of the congregation (or all congregations out there)? When the church gossip shares private information… or even falseinformation, why do we lash out with thinly-veiled, passive-aggressive rants on Facebook about brutes in the church before flouncing off in a spiritually-superior rejection of that “religious nightmare, otherwise known as the church?” (Yes, I’ve heard it called that).
When we’re blackballed by people who used to call us family, why do we reject all parts of the bride? Why do we cut off an arm, a leg, a hand, and whack away from the body known as Jesus’ bride until only a piece of an eyelash is left—us?
I get it. The bride of Christ gets ugly—like many bridezillas do. But do we love our Groom? Do we trust that He will stay faithful to us even when parts of our body fails us? When we get old, frail, and forgetful, will He remember us? Will He stay faithful and true when we wander to other loves? Can we trust that?
If Jesus can die for that person in the pew across the way, if He can forgive their sins, if He can forgive your sins, can’t you forgive His beloved?
Look, I get it. Sometimes part of the body of Christ becomes ill—gangrenous. Toxic.
When that happens, you need to remove yourself before you become ill, too. I get that. But that local body is just a tiny finger or toe of the whole body. We need to do what we can to help the rest of the body stay healthy while we pray and do what we can to help the sick part.
And I’m not condoning sin. Please understand that. This isn’t about me saying, “It doesn’t matter if the church sins against us. It does. It’s why Jesus gave us a way to deal with that.
But regardless of how someone else behaves, we still have to do what’s right. And I Peter 4:8 reminds us that “Love covers a multitude of sins.”
If you thought I’d wax eloquent about how evil the church is, how we should just abolish the “institution,” and why it’s just so bad…
You’ll be disappointed. I won’t do it.
So, What Do You Do When the Church Becomes Toxic?
I can answer the question in a word.
Love.
And really, that’s all Matt does in this book. Loves. Okay, and maybe a little prayerful ranting as well.
It’s what Jesus did when His creation—you and me—when we became toxic. He loved.
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another.” John 13:34
Special Video from Chautona Havig
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Blog Stops
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, August 7
Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, August 7
The Power of Words, August 8
Bigreadersite, August 8
Among the Reads, August 9
Multifarious, August 10
Blogging With Carol, August 11
proud to be an autism mom, August 12
A Baker’s Perspective, August 12
Texas Book-aholic, August 13
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 14
Janices book reviews, August 15
Maureen’s Musings, August 16
Jeanette’s Thoughts, August 17
Bibliophile Reviews, August 18
Carpe Diem, August 19
Godly Book Reviews, August 20
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Chautona is giving away a grand prize package that includes a paperback copy of Argosy Junction, “Matt’s” copy of Shakespeare’s Sonnets, and a $25 gift certificate!!
Click below to enter. https://promosimple.com/ps/d143/argos...
Matt is ever so faithful and wants to share God's love for Lane. But he must be careful to not scare Lane away from all that GOD can offer.
Can Lane and Matt have a future together? Can Lane learn forgiveness?
It's difficult to forgive when you have been hurt. But with forgiveness we are given a gift. I know of no one whom hasn't been wronged at some point in their life. If we don't let go, we are held hostage by all that is evil. Let God heal your soul.
I received this free to review.
About the Book
Book Title: Argosy Junction
Author: Chautona Havig
Genre: Christian Fiction/Romance
Release date: 1st edition: March 11, 2010 ; 2nd edition: August, 2018
“I want nothing to do with Jesus or God.”
After over twenty years of abuses from the cult-like church she grew up in, Lane Argosy has had it with God and His people. Though the Brethrentry to make Lane and her family’s lives unbearable, freedom from their warped brand of Christianity is sweet. She’ll never go back… never.
He just wanted to visit the country he’d explored through books. So, when Matt Rushby arrives in Argosy Junction, Montana, he expects idyllic meadows and craggy rocks towering above, old-fashioned friendliness and at least one or two cowboys. Instead, he finds familiar hatred and factions very much like the ones back home in Rockland’s inner-city gangs.
The Argosy family is disillusioned, broken, and floundering. Matt knows the answer is Jesus—just Him and not the trappings of a faith He never designed.
But how can Matt help them turn their hearts back to the Lord when he suspects Lane has stolen his?
Click here to purchase your copy!
About the Author
The author of dozens of books in a variety of genres, Chautona Havig lives and writes in California’s Mojave Desert where she uses story to nudge her readers to the feet of the Master Storyteller.
Guest Post from ChautonaWhat Do You Do When the Church Becomes Toxic?
You know how TV shows and movies like to make fun of bridezillas?
Yeah. I know. It can be funny.
But bridezillas aren’t just those gals on reality shows. They’re all over the church, too. People who allow their focus to get off the Bridegroom and onto “their day.” Instead of focusing on the One who loves them so dearly, Who has rescued them from the gutter and holds them close and tenderly, they focus on getting all the trappings right. The right wording, the right clothes, the right rules of…
UGH.
So many friendships have been ruined by a bride gone wild—so focused on details that she forgets the people she hopes will celebrate it with her. She forgets her groom. Unreasonable expectations of the day and of people lead to broken relationships and an ugly taint to what should be a beautiful occasion.
What I find interesting is that people will forgive a lot from a bridezilla. You hear things like, “Well, it’s such a stressful time,” or “She’ll come around after she settles in.”
And it’s true.
So, why don’t we have the same grace for the “bridezillas” of the church? When that deacon decides to become judge and jury of people’s spiritual state based upon what he thinks or knows someone has contributed to the church, why do we write off him and the rest of the congregation (or all congregations out there)? When the church gossip shares private information… or even falseinformation, why do we lash out with thinly-veiled, passive-aggressive rants on Facebook about brutes in the church before flouncing off in a spiritually-superior rejection of that “religious nightmare, otherwise known as the church?” (Yes, I’ve heard it called that).
When we’re blackballed by people who used to call us family, why do we reject all parts of the bride? Why do we cut off an arm, a leg, a hand, and whack away from the body known as Jesus’ bride until only a piece of an eyelash is left—us?
I get it. The bride of Christ gets ugly—like many bridezillas do. But do we love our Groom? Do we trust that He will stay faithful to us even when parts of our body fails us? When we get old, frail, and forgetful, will He remember us? Will He stay faithful and true when we wander to other loves? Can we trust that?
If Jesus can die for that person in the pew across the way, if He can forgive their sins, if He can forgive your sins, can’t you forgive His beloved?
Look, I get it. Sometimes part of the body of Christ becomes ill—gangrenous. Toxic.
When that happens, you need to remove yourself before you become ill, too. I get that. But that local body is just a tiny finger or toe of the whole body. We need to do what we can to help the rest of the body stay healthy while we pray and do what we can to help the sick part.
And I’m not condoning sin. Please understand that. This isn’t about me saying, “It doesn’t matter if the church sins against us. It does. It’s why Jesus gave us a way to deal with that.
But regardless of how someone else behaves, we still have to do what’s right. And I Peter 4:8 reminds us that “Love covers a multitude of sins.”
If you thought I’d wax eloquent about how evil the church is, how we should just abolish the “institution,” and why it’s just so bad…
You’ll be disappointed. I won’t do it.
So, What Do You Do When the Church Becomes Toxic?
I can answer the question in a word.
Love.
And really, that’s all Matt does in this book. Loves. Okay, and maybe a little prayerful ranting as well.
It’s what Jesus did when His creation—you and me—when we became toxic. He loved.
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another.” John 13:34
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Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, August 7
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Among the Reads, August 9
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proud to be an autism mom, August 12
A Baker’s Perspective, August 12
Texas Book-aholic, August 13
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 14
Janices book reviews, August 15
Maureen’s Musings, August 16
Jeanette’s Thoughts, August 17
Bibliophile Reviews, August 18
Carpe Diem, August 19
Godly Book Reviews, August 20
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Chautona is giving away a grand prize package that includes a paperback copy of Argosy Junction, “Matt’s” copy of Shakespeare’s Sonnets, and a $25 gift certificate!!
Click below to enter. https://promosimple.com/ps/d143/argos...
November 9, 2014
10/21-10/30
A Kindle book that I actually PAID for.
Lol
Loved it. Just loved it.
Love her writing. Love her characters.
Yeah, some may say this story is cliché... though maybe backwards... this time it is country “cowgirl” Lane,(the family keep sheep, but Lane is allergic and takes visitors on trail rides instead) meets city boy, Matt.
The Argosy family and their trouble with the Brethren. Wow, I thought we had been in some legalistic churches in the past. But, wow this one was unbelievable. And then to find out Lane's dad had been one of the founding members.... ouch. Lane not only left the Brethren she left God and wants nothing to do with Christ. Matt is a devoted follower of Christ and this will be a big problem throughout the book.
Also, Matt had to save and save to afford this trip. He lives with his parents and helps support them as well as himself and he has a job to go back to.
Well, I don't want to give away the whole story.
I can't wait to read more of Chautona Havig's writing. I have read 3 books by her and have a few more already on my Kindle reader.
April 12, 2014
I enjoyed this books refreshing humor and inspirational themes. The authors touches on some very sensitive issues but does it with grace and dignity worthy of her characters and the relationship they forge.
August 13, 2018
What I love most about the author's books is that she writes with her whole heart. The characters come alive and whatever issue they are facing, the author doesn't try to minimize the problem. She engages the characters with realism and readers are able to relate to them. I liked this story because it deals with a couple of things I have dealt with before. There are many churches out there who have different beliefs and some are even dare I say judgmental. It is hard to be a perfect Christian in the eyes of some of the churches. They are quick to point fingers and shun you. I have felt that exact thing in a church. It hurt me to the core and I became distant from God.
I was very intrigued by the Brethren. The history of how it came to be was interesting. It was hurtful for me to read how they treated Lane and her family. Can you imagine living in a town where no one wants your business or even to be friends with you? I admired how Lane handled it with grace. She is quite a great character with a heart that has been damaged with rejection. Of course my favorite character from the story has to be Patience. What a lovely child full of adventure and life. You can't help but love her. She radiates energy and happiness.
It was fun to see Matt come out to the sheep ranch when he wasn't wanted in town. He sure tried to impress Lane, but I think his ranching skills need a little tweaking. His time there was special and he really bonded with the entire family. I could see a little spark between him and Lane. Will Matt be able to help Lane forgive the people who have hurt her and come to understand what a real Christian is? To me the simplest way to tell someone what a Christian is by loving unconditionally, not judging and reach reach out to those who are hurting with compassion.
When Lane and Patience go to see Matt in his town, it is a little different for them. They are used to small town living. Where Matt lives, there are homeless people found on the streets and rough neighborhoods that are not safe to travel around at night. Lane gets a new perspective of where Matt grew up. I enjoyed how Matt shared his heart with Lane and opened her eyes to a different background from hers. I kept thinking that Lane may be a little sheltered from the real world and it upset me that she was appalled that a prostitute was allowed to be in Matt's church. I think being around The Brethren back in Montana may have caused her to be judgmental without realizing it.
I liked the conversation that Lane's parents had. Thank you to the author for not mixing words and calling what happened to Lane and her family "spiritual abuse." Lane's father is such a good character and I liked that he was able to open up to his wife. This has been a book that I will not forget. It is a story about a real relationship with God and knowing when you are deceived. It is about pride and being judgmental. It's also a book that takes two people that believe differently and shows us how hearing the truth can set you free.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
I was very intrigued by the Brethren. The history of how it came to be was interesting. It was hurtful for me to read how they treated Lane and her family. Can you imagine living in a town where no one wants your business or even to be friends with you? I admired how Lane handled it with grace. She is quite a great character with a heart that has been damaged with rejection. Of course my favorite character from the story has to be Patience. What a lovely child full of adventure and life. You can't help but love her. She radiates energy and happiness.
It was fun to see Matt come out to the sheep ranch when he wasn't wanted in town. He sure tried to impress Lane, but I think his ranching skills need a little tweaking. His time there was special and he really bonded with the entire family. I could see a little spark between him and Lane. Will Matt be able to help Lane forgive the people who have hurt her and come to understand what a real Christian is? To me the simplest way to tell someone what a Christian is by loving unconditionally, not judging and reach reach out to those who are hurting with compassion.
When Lane and Patience go to see Matt in his town, it is a little different for them. They are used to small town living. Where Matt lives, there are homeless people found on the streets and rough neighborhoods that are not safe to travel around at night. Lane gets a new perspective of where Matt grew up. I enjoyed how Matt shared his heart with Lane and opened her eyes to a different background from hers. I kept thinking that Lane may be a little sheltered from the real world and it upset me that she was appalled that a prostitute was allowed to be in Matt's church. I think being around The Brethren back in Montana may have caused her to be judgmental without realizing it.
I liked the conversation that Lane's parents had. Thank you to the author for not mixing words and calling what happened to Lane and her family "spiritual abuse." Lane's father is such a good character and I liked that he was able to open up to his wife. This has been a book that I will not forget. It is a story about a real relationship with God and knowing when you are deceived. It is about pride and being judgmental. It's also a book that takes two people that believe differently and shows us how hearing the truth can set you free.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
August 12, 2018
Have you ever read a book and thought … meh! It was okaaaaayy!!! Then you read it again and you devour it. You remember most of it, but it completely hits you in a different way than it did the first time. This is what happened with Argosy Junction.
I stumbled on Chautona Havig’s books Past Forward – Volume 1 and the first of the Aggie series, on Kindle under the Christian fiction freebies section. At some point early on in reading Chautona’s books, I found her website and found a chronological list of all her stories relating to the city in her mind, Rockland and its surrounding suburbs. So, I read ALL of the books, in Chronological order, even the ones I had already read. I think it took me about a year and a half, with some breaks. The breaks, if I remember, were for reading Chautona’s other non-Rockland related books. Argosy Junction is part of the line-up. Honestly, I forgot so much of it, it didn’t stick with me, like other books had. THIS time though, I loved it.
I enjoy Chautona’s romances, because few have anything to do with “electric cheese”. She digs into the real heart of matters and shines the light of the Lord’s truth into them. She’s not afraid to deal with the tough stuff, and she does not compromise. The tough stuff in this is related to the injury brought on by a cultic church that takes church discipline to its hardest extreme, puts a blight on the Lord’s name and bruises and injures people in its wake. I can’t say any more or I’ll ruin the story.
I enjoyed Patience, the little girl in this story. She seems simple of mind, but very astute in heart. She’s truly a little light of innocence and sensitivity and simple faith in the Lord. Makes me think of a song we sang when we were little:
“Jesus bids us shine with a clear, pure light.
Like a little candle burning in the night.
In this world of darkness, we will shine,
You in your small corner and I in mine!”
What I didn’t like … and this does sound very cliché, it ended so quickly. I kept swiping to see if there was more, but nope, no more. Another way you know you read a good book is, if you are looking for more!
DISCLAIMER: I received this book as a gift. The opinions I express are provided without obligation for a positive review. I receive no compensation for the review, other than a really good read.
I stumbled on Chautona Havig’s books Past Forward – Volume 1 and the first of the Aggie series, on Kindle under the Christian fiction freebies section. At some point early on in reading Chautona’s books, I found her website and found a chronological list of all her stories relating to the city in her mind, Rockland and its surrounding suburbs. So, I read ALL of the books, in Chronological order, even the ones I had already read. I think it took me about a year and a half, with some breaks. The breaks, if I remember, were for reading Chautona’s other non-Rockland related books. Argosy Junction is part of the line-up. Honestly, I forgot so much of it, it didn’t stick with me, like other books had. THIS time though, I loved it.
I enjoy Chautona’s romances, because few have anything to do with “electric cheese”. She digs into the real heart of matters and shines the light of the Lord’s truth into them. She’s not afraid to deal with the tough stuff, and she does not compromise. The tough stuff in this is related to the injury brought on by a cultic church that takes church discipline to its hardest extreme, puts a blight on the Lord’s name and bruises and injures people in its wake. I can’t say any more or I’ll ruin the story.
I enjoyed Patience, the little girl in this story. She seems simple of mind, but very astute in heart. She’s truly a little light of innocence and sensitivity and simple faith in the Lord. Makes me think of a song we sang when we were little:
“Jesus bids us shine with a clear, pure light.
Like a little candle burning in the night.
In this world of darkness, we will shine,
You in your small corner and I in mine!”
What I didn’t like … and this does sound very cliché, it ended so quickly. I kept swiping to see if there was more, but nope, no more. Another way you know you read a good book is, if you are looking for more!
DISCLAIMER: I received this book as a gift. The opinions I express are provided without obligation for a positive review. I receive no compensation for the review, other than a really good read.
August 20, 2018
I want nothing to do with Jesus or God.” After over twenty years of abuses from the cult-like church she grew up in, Lane Argosy has had it with God and His people. Though the Brethren try to make Lane and her family’s lives unbearable, freedom from their warped brand of Christianity is sweet. She’ll never go back… never. He just wanted to visit the country he’d explored through books. So, when Matt Rushby arrives in Argosy Junction, Montana, he expects idyllic meadows and craggy rocks towering above, old-fashioned friendliness and at least one or two cowboys. Instead, he finds familiar hatred and factions very much like the ones back home in Rockland’s inner-city gangs. The Argosy family is disillusioned, broken, and floundering. Matt knows the answer is Jesus—just Him and not the trappings of a faith He never designed. But how can Matt help them turn their hearts back to the Lord when he suspects Lane has stolen his?
My Thoughts: Lane Argosy isn't like every other girl you would meet,; and that's just what Matt Rushby found out when he stuck in a field of "ferocious" sheep. This was an interesting book to read. Not only was it a romance novel, set in Montana, but it's also a story about how some churches can become toxic to its members. It deals with how pride can come into our lives and not only hurt us but other people as well. It's a good reminder to always go to the Bible when in doubt about teachings in the church.
It's also a reminder that God is always there waiting for us no matter how far we stray from Him, that He is a forgiving father. It's also about forgiving others. Prayer is a great tool, and we should always turn to God in prayer over everything in our lives, big or small.
The characters are enjoyable and entertaining in this novel, the author really brings them to life for the reader and the added humor is something I enjoyed. This is a novel that all ages can and will enjoy!
My Thoughts: Lane Argosy isn't like every other girl you would meet,; and that's just what Matt Rushby found out when he stuck in a field of "ferocious" sheep. This was an interesting book to read. Not only was it a romance novel, set in Montana, but it's also a story about how some churches can become toxic to its members. It deals with how pride can come into our lives and not only hurt us but other people as well. It's a good reminder to always go to the Bible when in doubt about teachings in the church.
It's also a reminder that God is always there waiting for us no matter how far we stray from Him, that He is a forgiving father. It's also about forgiving others. Prayer is a great tool, and we should always turn to God in prayer over everything in our lives, big or small.
The characters are enjoyable and entertaining in this novel, the author really brings them to life for the reader and the added humor is something I enjoyed. This is a novel that all ages can and will enjoy!
August 10, 2018
This book opens with a scene from an old tv western I've seen. I think it was in Death Valley Days, but I could be incorrect on that. Matt has gone off in new boots to photograph sheep, an animal he is completely ignorant about. What follows next just made me roll my eyes and sigh. I hoped he would gain some sense as the book progressed because this guy needs help.
As is typical, the ranch wise woman, Lane Argosy, comes to his rescue after she feels like he has suffered enough. She could have helped him much sooner, but let's say she wasn't oozing with kindness at the start of this story. Matt soon meets her family and the sheep farm and this book is off to a right regular western, only it's not. The characters tend to feel like they are all missing something, like answers or emotions. There are so many questions left unanswered. That annoys me!
The cult of the Brethren was interesting. The fall out that it caused was a main focal point of the book. The romance was slow but I don't feel like this couple is going to be okay. There are too many flaws still like the cult to make me comfortable with them. While I know cases where living with parents is necessary, it can also be difficult or a controlling situation. I feel like, for this story, this is yet another control situation.
My copy came from Celebrate Lit. My review is my own. It contains my thoughts or feelings about this book and it is left of my own free will.
As is typical, the ranch wise woman, Lane Argosy, comes to his rescue after she feels like he has suffered enough. She could have helped him much sooner, but let's say she wasn't oozing with kindness at the start of this story. Matt soon meets her family and the sheep farm and this book is off to a right regular western, only it's not. The characters tend to feel like they are all missing something, like answers or emotions. There are so many questions left unanswered. That annoys me!
The cult of the Brethren was interesting. The fall out that it caused was a main focal point of the book. The romance was slow but I don't feel like this couple is going to be okay. There are too many flaws still like the cult to make me comfortable with them. While I know cases where living with parents is necessary, it can also be difficult or a controlling situation. I feel like, for this story, this is yet another control situation.
My copy came from Celebrate Lit. My review is my own. It contains my thoughts or feelings about this book and it is left of my own free will.
August 7, 2018
When different worlds collide, will Matt and Lane find any way to make their love work?
It's a theme we've seen before-city boy meets county girl. But when it's given to readers by Chautona Havig, it is hilarious, heart-wrenching, and hopeful. Havig's story was full of believable characters whose struggle was real. It didn't take long for me to love Matt, and then he delightfully surprised me throughout the book. Lane and her family were delicious characters as well. I wanted to hang out with them.
And oh! the plot twists! The things that happened to the characters I love!
One of the most endearing qualities of this book was the correspondence between the characters. It was delightful and pulled the plot along uniquely.
I received an e-ARC of this book from the author, through Celebrate Lit, for review purposes. The thoughts expressed here are my own.
It's a theme we've seen before-city boy meets county girl. But when it's given to readers by Chautona Havig, it is hilarious, heart-wrenching, and hopeful. Havig's story was full of believable characters whose struggle was real. It didn't take long for me to love Matt, and then he delightfully surprised me throughout the book. Lane and her family were delicious characters as well. I wanted to hang out with them.
And oh! the plot twists! The things that happened to the characters I love!
One of the most endearing qualities of this book was the correspondence between the characters. It was delightful and pulled the plot along uniquely.
I received an e-ARC of this book from the author, through Celebrate Lit, for review purposes. The thoughts expressed here are my own.
August 14, 2018
"Argosy Junction" by Chautona Havig is a wonderful story about faith and getting back to Jesus after a church lets you down. Even though the book is fiction, this story does happen too often. It is also a love story.
I love the humor in this story. I admit I skipped over the Shakespeare Sonnet's in this story as I don't understand them.
This is a story that shows people from different walks of life can fall in love. It also shows that forgiveness isn't always easy for some people.
This book has an interesting quote about hate and bitterness and jealously being emotional cancer because it eats away at you until you rot and die, I agree.
I recommend this book to whoever likes clean love stories with a strong message that Jesus is the only way to live life.
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
I love the humor in this story. I admit I skipped over the Shakespeare Sonnet's in this story as I don't understand them.
This is a story that shows people from different walks of life can fall in love. It also shows that forgiveness isn't always easy for some people.
This book has an interesting quote about hate and bitterness and jealously being emotional cancer because it eats away at you until you rot and die, I agree.
I recommend this book to whoever likes clean love stories with a strong message that Jesus is the only way to live life.
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.
August 16, 2018
Highly insightful, delightfully written, absorbing, thought-provoking. Argosy Junction is the type of book that embraces you so comfortably you must savor it slowly to make it last as long as possible. Everything about this book is enjoyable – depth of characters, feels-like-you’re-there-locations, fascinating family dynamics, honesty about what Christianity is and is not. This is a story I did not want to finish – I LOVED it all - laughed out loud, cried, contemplated the principles and relationships, and re-read a lot of it.
This author is at the top of my favorites and must-read list, always. Her work is extraordinary and she consistently gives me pause for thought. My very highest recommendation for this book!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own.
This author is at the top of my favorites and must-read list, always. Her work is extraordinary and she consistently gives me pause for thought. My very highest recommendation for this book!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own.
August 10, 2020
Hard to get into, utterly predictable and super cheesy. The dialogue, the characters, really most of the story was incredibly unrealistic and clichéd.
The attempt at "witty banter" was ridiculous and corny, not remotely witty or funny. The instant success/fame merited several eye rolls. The adults acting like teenage drama queens is really terrible (I've seen this a few times in Chautona's stories--normal adults are not this high strung and sensitive and dramatic. Ew. Grow them up.).
And once again, a good editor would go a long way. Characters arguing with themselves because the author forgot who was speaking. A paragraph completely negating the events of the previous paragraph. Not well done.
I have really enjoyed most of Chautona's writing (see all my 4 and 5 stars reviews of her books!), but I almost didn't finish this one. Read her others, but don't bother with this one.
The attempt at "witty banter" was ridiculous and corny, not remotely witty or funny. The instant success/fame merited several eye rolls. The adults acting like teenage drama queens is really terrible (I've seen this a few times in Chautona's stories--normal adults are not this high strung and sensitive and dramatic. Ew. Grow them up.).
And once again, a good editor would go a long way. Characters arguing with themselves because the author forgot who was speaking. A paragraph completely negating the events of the previous paragraph. Not well done.
I have really enjoyed most of Chautona's writing (see all my 4 and 5 stars reviews of her books!), but I almost didn't finish this one. Read her others, but don't bother with this one.
August 12, 2018
My Review
This story starts with a city person and a country person meeting in a quite funny way. Matt and Lane become good friends despite being raised quite differently . Lane's family has grown distant with God . This story has forgiveness, romance, and interesting tid bits regarding cults. You will also probably find yourself laughing a bit like with the honey and boots incident . At times this story tended to drag on a bit and you might find yourself wanting it to hurry up . Overall an enjoyable read. Disclaimer: I was given a complimentary copy of this book but all thoughts and opinions are my own honest ones.
This story starts with a city person and a country person meeting in a quite funny way. Matt and Lane become good friends despite being raised quite differently . Lane's family has grown distant with God . This story has forgiveness, romance, and interesting tid bits regarding cults. You will also probably find yourself laughing a bit like with the honey and boots incident . At times this story tended to drag on a bit and you might find yourself wanting it to hurry up . Overall an enjoyable read. Disclaimer: I was given a complimentary copy of this book but all thoughts and opinions are my own honest ones.
August 18, 2018
I could read a Chautona novel every week and probably couldn’t keep up with her magic in writing. Even though this is a book from 2010 it is new to me and I loved it. First of all, I am a Montana gal, my blood flows maroon (Griz) and I hear the calling of the mountains daily. I felt connected to Montana a bit more with reading this novel. This novel is in authentic Chautona style, characters in large need of a good dose of love and faith.
Full Review:https://bibliophile.reviews/book-revi...
Full Review:https://bibliophile.reviews/book-revi...
August 8, 2018
This is a very good book. I love how Matt and Lane meet and become really good friends. They go throug many trials to grow together. Lane and her family must learn to trust in God again. They drifted away because of pride. I like how they learn to trust again. My favorite character was Patience. She is just so sweet. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
May 12, 2021
There is a nice romance here, with each person having their own regrets and one having a hard time reclaiming her faith. The story covers what happens when Christians become too rigid in their thinking and end up being a cult. Also covers forgiveness, righting wrongs and there are some funny parts as well.
October 20, 2020
Argosy Junction.......like stepping back into a simpler time
Great book, filled with likeable characters. The struggle Lane had with religious beliefs was very realistic. Matt's patience and convictions were amazing!
Great book, filled with likeable characters. The struggle Lane had with religious beliefs was very realistic. Matt's patience and convictions were amazing!
January 31, 2019
Got to appreciate an author who honestly tackles the issues of highly conservative cult-like “Christianity” and the hurts it can cause vs. the reality of Jesus...
Read
February 22, 2019Loved it
I loved this book! Finding your way back to Jesus after being hurt by religious people threaded this story,along with romance, made this a hard to put down read!
I loved this book! Finding your way back to Jesus after being hurt by religious people threaded this story,along with romance, made this a hard to put down read!
June 29, 2020
Jesus first
Enjoyed this book as it was a again that the most important relationship is with God. It felt real to life rather than just fiction.
Enjoyed this book as it was a again that the most important relationship is with God. It felt real to life rather than just fiction.
October 18, 2022
This was the very first book of Chautona's that I read and I have been hooked on her writing ever since!
August 9, 2018
Argosy Junction by Chautona Havig
Shakespeare, sonnets, sheep and snickers
Pride was the downfall of the church in Argosy Junction and led the people of the congregation trying to live up to rules and regulations that they created so they would appear to be godly to the others. In the process, they caused much damage and created a cult. While on the outside it appeared that they were doing well and living lives that would be pleasing to God, their hearts were filled with wrong motivations, judgement, and hypocrisy.
As I was reading, I was a bit in awe over the way that the author appeared to have such an intimate knowledge of the inner city – what it felt like to grow up and live there. Matt’s caution for Lane being alone in his neighborhood and yet his casual attitude towards being there himself was so interesting, yet it fits. The way he chose a career that he didn’t love because it paid better than other options and had better advancement opportunities – ouch.
Matt was pretty much a perfect hero. I mean, really. Who doesn’t love a tough yet tender man? One who can deal with a gangbanging teenager and spout poetry. Oh, and did I mention his intense love for the Lord which led him to surrender the one thing he desired above all else? He was a man who knew how to love.
One of the things I liked the most in this book was the correspondence. Author Chautona Havig wrote this so well. There was a great deal of correspondence going on between Matt and the various members of the Argosy family. My favorites were the e-mails and letters sent from Patience, Lane’s younger sister.
Speaking of Patience, I loved her heart. And as much as I admired Matt, Patience certainly topped my list of favorite characters. At nine years old, she still had a tender and loving heart that didn’t judge. Though her entire family obviously doted on her, she was not spoiled. She so naturally cared about the homeless people and wanted to meet their needs, not reacting with fear or judgement that so many of us do. . .
Reading what I have here, this looks like it is a very serious book. It is, but it is also filled with the author’s inimitable humor throughout. Not only in the way she turns a phrase but also the situations the characters find themselves in, such as reading sonnets to sheep!
Argosy Junction is challenging. It deals with so many deep heart issues. I challenge you to read it and not find some area in your life that it shines a laser beam on and make you squirm. I hope you will pick up a copy and read it prayerfully. Not that I’m saying you should use it for Bible study. Just see what perhaps the Lord may speak to you about in your life.
This review was originally posted on Among the Reads
I bought this myself
Shakespeare, sonnets, sheep and snickers
Pride was the downfall of the church in Argosy Junction and led the people of the congregation trying to live up to rules and regulations that they created so they would appear to be godly to the others. In the process, they caused much damage and created a cult. While on the outside it appeared that they were doing well and living lives that would be pleasing to God, their hearts were filled with wrong motivations, judgement, and hypocrisy.
As I was reading, I was a bit in awe over the way that the author appeared to have such an intimate knowledge of the inner city – what it felt like to grow up and live there. Matt’s caution for Lane being alone in his neighborhood and yet his casual attitude towards being there himself was so interesting, yet it fits. The way he chose a career that he didn’t love because it paid better than other options and had better advancement opportunities – ouch.
Matt was pretty much a perfect hero. I mean, really. Who doesn’t love a tough yet tender man? One who can deal with a gangbanging teenager and spout poetry. Oh, and did I mention his intense love for the Lord which led him to surrender the one thing he desired above all else? He was a man who knew how to love.
One of the things I liked the most in this book was the correspondence. Author Chautona Havig wrote this so well. There was a great deal of correspondence going on between Matt and the various members of the Argosy family. My favorites were the e-mails and letters sent from Patience, Lane’s younger sister.
Speaking of Patience, I loved her heart. And as much as I admired Matt, Patience certainly topped my list of favorite characters. At nine years old, she still had a tender and loving heart that didn’t judge. Though her entire family obviously doted on her, she was not spoiled. She so naturally cared about the homeless people and wanted to meet their needs, not reacting with fear or judgement that so many of us do. . .
Reading what I have here, this looks like it is a very serious book. It is, but it is also filled with the author’s inimitable humor throughout. Not only in the way she turns a phrase but also the situations the characters find themselves in, such as reading sonnets to sheep!
Argosy Junction is challenging. It deals with so many deep heart issues. I challenge you to read it and not find some area in your life that it shines a laser beam on and make you squirm. I hope you will pick up a copy and read it prayerfully. Not that I’m saying you should use it for Bible study. Just see what perhaps the Lord may speak to you about in your life.
This review was originally posted on Among the Reads
I bought this myself
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews