The Masterpiece

It’s kind of daunting to consider what to say in this review, knowing that many readers have been disappointed in Ms. Rivers’ latest offering from both a craft and a theological perspective. Because the honest truth is, I couldn’t put it down. It’s our book club pick this month, and book club was last Friday. I picked it up on Tuesday to give myself plenty of time to read it and put it down at 1am Wednesday morning, having been unable to put it aside except to carry out the absolute necessities. I feel I should say that I picked this up without any prior experience of this author’s novels. Shocking, I know! It hasn’t been a conscious decision on my behalf, and I certainly want to read her much-lauded titles like <em>Redeeming Love</em> and the <em>Mark of the Lion</em> series; I just don’t seem to have gotten around to it yet. So whereas readers have mentioned the characters and writing not being up to par with her previous stories, I had no comparison to make. Personally, I found Roman and Grace to be fascinating characters whose life experiences were so far removed from mine that I didn’t feel qualified to question whether they were ‘believable’. There’s a part of me that rather wishes they hadn’t been, because their stories aren’t pretty, but that was part of what made them so compelling—and had me in tears on occasion. And if some of their traits occasionally came across as a little stereotypical (bad boy/good girl comparisons), their characters were actually far more complex than these occasional outward manifestations suggested. And to be honest, stereotypes exist for a reason, and in this case, these characteristics seemed true to the characters. Having read several reviews of this book when it initially released, I was already aware of some of the theological objections readers have made to parts of the story. And fair warning, I can’t talk about this without it being a bit of a spoiler, so if you absolutely hate knowing anything about the story before you read, you’ll want to skip to the last paragraph. However, I will keep my references to the plot as general as possible. ** SPOILER ALERT ** One of the characters in the novel has a near-death experience (which, contrary to its name, often involves the character being clinically dead for a short period of time, not just “near death”). During that near-death experience, this character is accosted by demons and dragged toward hell, but is then saved (in a purely physical sense) by calling on the name of Jesus. My initial reaction was the same as many—doubt as to whether this was a theologically accurate, or even a theologically responsible, plot device. And talk about deus ex machina! However, I kept reading. One, because I was far too invested to stop by then, and two, because it became apparent that, while the character had been physically saved, there was still quite a journey to go before the character was spiritually saved. And it must be said, the character’s journey after this pivotal moment completely overturned any idea that this was a dramatic but ultimately shallow plot device. Once I had finished the novel, I read the author’s notes and was interested to discover that research had showed her that there are many reports of near-death experiences that are not full of light and joy (which are the experiences more often reported), but are instead horrific and terrifying, just as this character’s had been. I did a bit of my own research, and while I hardly know what to make of it all, it cannot be denied that there are people out there who have turned their lives around (including leaving an active homosexual lifestyle) as the result of an experience such as the one depicted in this book. Whatever the explanation may be behind these kinds of experiences, they are obviously very real to the people who have had them. Many theories have been put forth, from simple scientific explanations to dreams or visions right through to a metaphysical experience that we can’t even begin to understand. So putting aside for the moment the question of what causes the phenomenon we call a “near-death experience”, I am left with the following observations: 1. The near-death experience in this novel is inline with the Bible’s teaching that we have a soul that is separate to our physical body. 2. The near-death experience in this novel confirms the Bible’s teaching that hell exists and that there is a penalty for sin. 3. Through this near-death experience, the character learns two foundational Biblical truths: only calling on the name of Christ can save one from eternal punishment, and the character had done nothing to warrant such mercy and grace. 4. Though the character was physically saved from death, spiritual salvation required a deliberate decision by the character to “get right with God” and become a Christ follower—something which took the character time to work through and also formed part of the story. ** END SPOILER ALERT ** I know this has been a lengthy review, but I wanted to acknowledge that I have grappled with the same issues as many other readers, but ultimately given this book a higher rating because (a) I really and truly could not put it down; (b) it challenged me intellectually and spiritually; and (c) it is a powerful story of unmerited grace and the healing and wholeness that can only be found in Christ.

The Masterpiece was absolutely dynamite. The character development was top-notch, and I loved how both main characters continued to grow and evolve as the story unfolded. While I’m not usually a fan of flashbacks, Rivers handled them beautifully. The chapters that gave us glimpses into the protagonists’ earlier lives were woven seamlessly into the story and shed powerful light on what shaped them into who they are. Instead of interrupting the flow, they deepened it. What stood out most to me was how real the characters felt. Both Grace and Roman carry painful pasts, which makes them relatable and deeply human. I loved the contrast between them—Grace, who was saved as a child but still struggles with people-pleasing, confidence, and understanding her worth; and Roman, who has rejected God altogether and must experience a major life-altering event before he’s even willing to consider faith. Watching Roman’s journey toward understanding what it truly means to follow God was especially moving. The ending was perfect, and the tie-in with the title was incredibly meaningful. This book kept pulling me back—I genuinely didn’t want to put it down. Beautifully written, emotionally rich, realistic, and deeply inspirational, The Masterpiece tugs at your heart while expanding your mind. One of those stories that stays with you long after the last page.

From: Kim Hlad Subject: The Masterpiece by Francine Rivers There is nothing that will keep me up at night and let my housework go than a brand new Francine Rivers book hot off the press! I buy a lot of used books but pull out the wallet for a newly released Rivers novel every time. This book did not disappoint. Close to 500 pages and a story that unfortunately rings true increasingly in the lives of today’s children. Childhood trauma . The parents of addiction and abusers who try in the midst of their own tarnished childhood past to love a child ... but leave them with hearts full of pain and anger and walls that only God Himself can penetrate. Billy Ray Dean lived with a mother who drown her shame of prostitution in drugs.. disappearing one night and leaving Billy at age 7 to the system where his anger kept him fleeing and entering a life of crime. 7 year old Grace learned how to play hide and seek when mommy told her to when her father came home drunk; until the night she hid in the closet listening to her mother scream and shots are fired. She is taken by an aunt to be raised as the only relative and physically well cared for , without love and affection. Oh how the God of heaven works his sovereign plan into the life of broken people and as the hound of heaven draws them to himself through his army of angels and the Holy Spirit and yes even through his fallen angels . I was dismayed to read reviews from readers who scoffed at the spiritual and out of this world experiences in this book and I pity them. Because we are living in a world of spiritual warfare and the King of the Army is in command. I don’t want to give more of the story away except to say that Billy Ray Dean is taken to a boys home at age 15 and worked on a ranch where he is covered with Gods love despite his every move to break the rules and flee. His artistic talent is soon discovered and fed and at 18 he is released into the world where he becomes a millionaire as an artist and builds his own mansion in a canyon near Los Angeles where the view is beautiful and life is good. Or is it? He can have any woman he wants any night and he has a studio any artist would dream of having. Then he uses an agency to hire him an assistant and in walks Grace, chewed up and spit out by a man who her aunt warned her not to marry, divorced and living with a Christian couple who took her in and helped her through a pregnancy from a one night stand and take care of Samuel for her while she works . Grace gave her heart to God as a child in Sunday School and yet seeks after men like her brutal father and lacks self esteem. With her protective wall up and Billy .... now Roman Velasco, thinking he could have her also as a friend with benefits , sparks fly and a journey of healing and loss and brokenness begins. All with the fingerprints of God on every event . The plan of salvation flows richly through this story and given in detail at the end by Francine herself . A surprise revelation , a “what if” comes at the end. This book is a testament to the power of God to change lives from the inside out. No other relationship will work unless first the individual is in right relationship to God. Every book of Rivers is one you would read over and over and never forget; relevant for today and weaving through God’s holy Word we live by. Sent from my iPhone

Usually, I don’t read contemporary romance books, but I am a Francine Rivers fan, and the beautiful cover of “The Masterpiece” caught my attention. Francine Rivers can write romance! I loved the stylistic beauty of the author’s prose, as well as the emotional engagement I felt with the characters and storyline. Her moving dialogue left me breathless. Roman Velasco didn’t have the easiest life as a boy or as a successful artist in Los Angeles. I loved how God provided strong Christian men to come aside this troubled youth, such as Mr. Newman, an inspiring teacher, and Jasper Hawley, who never gave up on Velasco. Another one of my favorite characters is Grace Moore, a Christian and single mother who wants to do right by her daughter. The chemistry between Moore and Velasco is so realistic that I felt like I was inside the room with the characters. What I enjoyed the most about this book was the theme of hope. The Christian community rallied around this couple, giving them encouragement and strength. Even though Grace and Roman possessed character flaws, their friends stood by them and held them up through prayer. In this novel, Rivers allows readers to feel the grace of God and glimpse His redemption. If you enjoy novels filled with hope and romance, you may also like “Redeeming Love” and “The Lady’s Mine” by Francine Rivers. Additional recommendations include “Hope Harbor” by Irene Hannon, “Tried & True” by Mary Connealy, “Finally Forever” by Karin Beery, and “A Woman Called Sage” by DiAnn Mills.

I loved this book! I’ve been looking for more books that honor God and to get back to reading just for the enjoyment of reading again and I’m glad I found Francine Rivers. I do have a small critique but nothing of importance that would take away from her writing so I won’t share it because I don’t want to spoil the book for those who want to read it. But I recommend it and I enjoyed reading it. It made me giggle, it made me gasp, I felt sadness for the characters, and more importantly, it pointed us back to the Lord and His character and the part He plays in our lives

I’ve just started on my journey in reading god based romances and I love this one! Thank you for creating such a wonderful book full of God’s love and how to find him.

I love the novel. Roman Velasco is a mesmerizing figure from the beginning. A “bad boy” who needs right the kind of love to heal the graffiti artist’s wounded soul. Grace Moore, his new office manager, whose hidden talents include include listening, cooking, organizing and taking care of Samuel, her unknown fatherless child. Roman is interested in the pretty. Christian woman for a possible 1- nighter- no questions asked, no commitment. Grace is not. Between a proficient use of 4-letter words he lets one too many vulgarities permeate the air and Grace says— no more and threatens to leave. Roman doesn’t want her to. He says sorry. And they move on. All others in the novel are trying to help Roman and Grace heal from childhood traumas. Neither want to commit until…. The landscape is beautiful, the storytelling superb and we, the reader, gets a lesson in everyday life gone wrong until…! Definitely worth the reading. Couldn’t pot down without a sigh of regret. 🙏♥️🌺

I have fallen in love with Francine River's novels. So whenever I hear that she has written a new one, it's an automatic response for me to buy it. I don't even have to know what it is about, because I love the way she writes her novels. I know it will be life changing for me. I know it will also challenge me in a good way as well. So when her latest novel, The Masterpiece arrived, I couldn't wait to carve out some time to sit back and enjoy my book, like someone would enjoy a fine wine, a decadent dessert or whatever will cause you to get excited because it is something you will look forward to. I was not disappointed. The story takes place between a struggling famous artist, Roman Velasco, who has to come to terms with his past before he can ever move forward in his future. To say he is a success at painting is an understatement and his paintings are always sold out for obscene amounts of money. He can't seem to find a way to manage all the time in between and has gone through so many personal assistants, the agency is down to its final candidate and if he isn't happy with this one, they are done trying to work with him. Fortunately for Grace Moore, she needs this job and will stop at nothing to ensure she makes enough money that she can move out of the home she shares with a couple that had hoped to adopt her young son when he was born. They are still hoping she will change her mind and thus the reason for letting her stay. They understand how difficult it is for a single mother to make it in Los Angeles alone! So Grace is will to pass along a little "grace" to Roman and hopefully find a way for the two to work together. But she will also need to come to terms with her own past, and one that can apply a little grace to both of their lives. The Masterpiece by Francine Rivers is an exceptional look into the pasts that we think define who we are today and unfortunately for some hold us back in the very areas that God wants to release us from. While Grace has the faith to work through some of her issues, there are some still holding her back. Yet at least, she begins to peel back the layers of Roman's past and help him to see that God is his only hope for a future, that is if she can reach him before his has a tragic accident that will forever change them both. Well worth all 5 out of 5 stars in this reader's opinion and now proud to add this novel to my permanent library.

I am so in love with this book.one of the best books I have read.

I like the author, I like her books, and especially this one. It is very well written, You feel deep sympathy with the two main characters, which both experienced a hard childhood, that left traumas they have to deal with as adults. And there is just one way to get over it and start afresh, unburdened by the past. Rivers books surely are not just light entertainment, they show real existing, hard problems, that may be shocking for some people. Please don't read it, if You just seek light entertainment. But read it, if You are interested to be a friend to people, who suffer from hardship in their life. You will understand them better, you will understand yourself better und hopefully, you will understand Gods Grace better.

Very good

Such a nice story

Reading Roman's and Grace's journey through healing and dealing with their brokenness and consequences of sin could be the story of so many lost in the world today. Francine has a real raw way of presenting her characters, with the truth of sin shadowing all their actions. Life can be quite unpleasant and most often painful as we soon see in their lives. Once again we can witness how God's love and mercy shine through as He gently begins His work in the hearts of those seeking Him. I love Francine Rivers' work and in her own way she has written a "Masterpiece" novel in the Lord!!! Highly recommended to everyone!!!