Dancing Priest
As a life-long reader with a particular love of fiction, it has long been my suspicion that an author will–intentionally or otherwise–infuse the main character with many of his or her own characteristics, flaws and values. Now, having worked with an author through the writing and editing of four books (2 published, 2 yet to be released), I know this to be the case. At least if they’re writing honestly, and fiction doesn’t work for me unless it’s honest.
Which is why I was so delighted to read Glynn Young’s debut novel Dancing Priest.
Book Description (from Amazon):
Michael Kent… A young man studying to become a priest finds love, and learns that faith can separate. A university cyclist seeking Olympic gold finds tragedy, death and heroism. A pastor thousands of miles from home seeks vocation and finds fatherhood. Sarah Hughes… A young woman living abroad finds love and loses family. A university student meets a faith she cannot accept. An artist finds faith and learns to paint with her soul. Dancing Priest is the story of Michael Kent and Sarah Hughes and a love, born, separated, and reborn, in faith and hope.
I’ve never met Glynn in person, but I feel like I have a sense of the kind of person he is through his online presence: kind, generous, humble with a heart turned towards God.
So much of him seems to be infused into this story. It is a novel in the traditional sense, but it is so much more. It is a testimony of God’s grace and mercy weaved into the lives of its characters. It is a powerful reminder to live intentional lives for Jesus. That while there is loss, heartache and pain for every one of us, there is also great joy.
If your faith is waining and you need a good infusion of hope, I would highly recommend picking up a copy for yourself.
You can find it on Amazon here: Dancing Priest
And while you’re at it, get to know Mr. Glynn a little better through his prose and poetry at his blog, Faith, Fiction Friends. You’ll be glad you did.
Not convinced?
Okay, you twisted my arm. Leave me a comment for a chance to win yourself a copy autographed by the author (Thanks, Glynn!). I’ll choose at random and announce the lucky winner next week.
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Just popping my head in here to say, “Ditto.” I’ve read the book, so you don’t need to enter my name in the drawing. I’m delighted for whoever the winner will be!
And, for the record, Glynn is just as you describe. I’ve met him in person, and he is genuine, sincere, kind-hearted. A class-act man, and a terrific writer.
Alright, I’ve put a copy in my cart.
BTW my favorite part of your review is this line “fiction doesn’t work for me unless it’s honest.” There’s a bit of irony but a whole lot o’ reality in that there statement, miss Kathy.
[Been praying; me and the kiddo. Did you shoot this into cyberland from the tub?]
Blessings.
Snort! No. I’ve come out from under cover for the time being. Thanks for the prayers. Looks like it’s moving north of us.
Though, I have not read the book, I’m not in disbelief of your recommendation, rather a free book would just be awesome! Is it the copy you read? I like used books too.
My copy is on my kindle, Brina, but Glynn has just generously offered an autographed copy to give away, so it will be that one.
It’s impossible to not be delighted for Glynn and the success of his book.
I’m posting the second part of an interview with him on Feb. 6. The first part is on TweetSpeak. The second will be on my blog. Hope you’ll stop in and read it.
I’ll be sure to stop by. Thanks, Maureen.
The description of this book, “Dancing Priests” sounds like one I would like to read. In one of my writing books it recommends writing fiction from your authentic self, pretty much what you said in describing the author, Glynn Young. I enjoyed your review and hope to read the book soon.
I’m hearing good things about this book.
I had no idea! I’m pretty oblivious to everyone else these days though, I’m pathetic like that and need to get back on the wagon… in all my spare time, right? Excited to see this. Glynn is a great man, I honestly appreciate everything I’ve read from him, too.
Great review Kat. If I had not already read it and reviewed it, I would because of your recommendation.
http://billgrandi.ovcf.org/wordpress/?p=7169 I look forward to at least one sequel. As for the contest, if I win, I will give my copy away to someone to read it, or since I have already loaned mine out, keep it just in case mine doesn’t get returned. lol
Lately, I’ve been diving back into fiction reading (one of the glitches of being a pastor is that I tend to read a lot of theology books – these days by mostly by Len Sweet, Steve Wagner, or leadership books – mostly by Tony Dungy and Marcus Brotherton).
So I’m looking for fiction books to engage my mind but also to get me out of the office.
I’ve been following Glynn for the last year on his blog and I’m glad you have given a review of this book. I want to read this one next!
Thanks!
I’m intrigued. I don’t read a lot of fiction lately. Billy Coffey being the only as of late. Thanks for the chance. Definitely putting it on my wish list even if I don’t win.
Enter me! It is on my reading list for the year.
Congrats to Brina! Winner of Dancing Priest.
I just received my copy of the Dancing Priest!!! I’m so excited to start reading it. I just have to wait until I’m done working… Yes, I must wait until after work. Perhaps just a little peak…
Brina´s last [type] ..What Are You Preparing For?