Monthly Archives: October 2012

A New YA Novel: “Finding Grace”

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CatholicFiction.com is pleased to spread the word about Finding Grace, a new Catholic novel for teen readers.

Learn more about Finding Grace, the themes, synopsis, and inspiration behind the novel by reading the author’s own words below.


Catholic author Laura Pearl writes:

I am a Catholic author who has just had my first novel (aimed at young adult readers) released in August by Bezalel Books, a Catholic publishing house. My book is called “Finding Grace,” and it is is set in a small town in the 1970′s. It is filled with Catholic characters and is a pro-family, pro-chastity, pro-life, coming of age love story. It promotes Catholic themes throughout, but with compassion and humor and without being too preachy.

Here is a short synopsis, which appears on the back cover of the book: At the age of thirteen, Grace Kelly (who has been saddled with the name of a world-renowned beauty, but is far from one herself) is inspired by an offhand comment from her father to become a saint. But coming of age and falling deeply in love for the first time in the early 1970′s–in the wake of the 60′s “sexual revolution” and the historic Roe v. Wade decision–presents true challenges for young people who are trying to live chastely. Grace realizes that without the help of God, the Blessed Mother, and all the saints in Heaven, navigating the thorny path to sainthood would be an almost insurmountable task.

I decided to write “Finding Grace” with my future grandchildren in mind (and then my first two–identical twin girls–were born while I was still in the process of writing it!), worried about the kind of books that will be targeted at them by the time they become teenage readers. I wanted to write something that would combat the damaging secular messages that bombard our young people daily–in books, on T.V., in movies, and even in school.

My book is available on Amazon.com in both paperback and Kindle form.

Thank you, Laura Pearl, for taking the time to write us about your novel. It sounds like a great idea for a Christmas gift!

Review of “Angela’s Song”

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In her debut novel, Angela’s Song, AnnMarie Creedon has crafted an engaging story that blends the ups and downs of real life with the beauty of God’s plan. Unlike many of today’s romances, Angela’s Song is not a fluffy, shallow read, but a deep and meaningful one. It offers a refreshing view on dating, true love, engagement, and marriage, all within a Catholic framework.

Yet the main character, Angela, is not a perfect Catholic, which makes the story all the more interesting and realistic. Angela (or Jel, as her late husband called her) has a full life caring for her three kids while being involved with numerous charitable projects, but her life and faith are lacking. When she meets a charming man named Jack, all her problems are not suddenly solved; in fact, the problems multiply. But through all the challenges, Angela’s faith grows and she learns to truly trust in God, finding a love that she never dreamed possible.

Angela’s Song is a novel for adult readers, as it brings up serious issues and emotions. At the same time, the story remains entertaining, touching, romantic, and even humorous. The many Catholic elements are woven in naturally, and the characters are convincing, likable, and easy to relate to. As a reader, you will feel a part of the family and enjoy the day-to-day interactions that are real, but never dull. This book did a great job of keeping my interest without relying on convoluted plot twists—just the sweet simplicity and tangles of everyday life.

I’ll also note that it takes a skilled writer to pull off a novel written in the first person, present tense, as this author has done. Her writing is smooth and effective, never distracting, and since the events seem to be happening right now, it makes the story more powerful.

Angela’s Song is a beautiful Catholic romance that is wonderfully inspirational, and readers won’t be disappointed.