Review: Unique and Interesting Characters
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 05 19, 2011
In Plain Sight is the story of Jovana, a beautiful immigrant from Macedonia trying to escape a troubled past and start over. As a new Christian, she is determined to do the right thing, but can she trust either of the men who seem to have fallen for her? More importantly, can she trust herself? In this book, author Michelle Sutton continues to write from a heart of passion. Her treatment of sexual issues within a Christian context are bold, realistic and refreshing, while the strong redemptive message in this book comes across loud and clear without being `preachy'. Well done! There is definitely plenty of heat, but it is always tasteful and honest. Any less would have been weak, especially considering the background of the main characters.Although there are certainly elements of suspense in this book, I would have to say that it is still best categorized as straight-up romance. For me, suspense is all about the unexpected, and there really were no surprises. However, it seemed as though Sutton did this quite consciously. Even though the plot was quite predictable, this was not necessarily a bad thing. Not only do we see the story from the point of view of both the female heroine and male hero, but we are actually allowed into the mind of the psychotic antagonist, Kurt. Right from the opening paragraph we know that he is bad news. For me, the tension came from my own silent pleas with the heroine, Jovana, to NOT be so easily manipulated.The real strength of this novel, in my opinion, is the rich message of God's grace and redemption that is so beautifully presented. Jovana is a complex character with a very mottled past. Sometimes her actions seem almost irrational, but this was part of what I appreciated about the book. In reality, people who have suffered deep trauma often act in unpredictable ways. Jovana is a classic case and just because she gave her heart to Christ, she still needed time and help with the mending process.In Plain Sight is well written, engaging, sensual, and most of all, a wonderful example of Christ's redeeming love. The message that God has can redeem even the vilest of sinners comes across with eloquence and impact, while at the same time never overshadowing the warmth of the romance. I give In Plain Sight 4  stars.