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After a chilling attempt on Issie's life, Nick takes on the role of protector even as struggles with the tragedy that has struck his church.

Book IV (Newpointe 911 Series)

One of my favorites from award winning author, Terry Blackstock. The Newpointe 911 series focuses on 911 responders (firefighters, paramedics, and police) in small town in Louisiana. The local Calvary Bible Church burns to the ground and the son of the fire chief, Ben Ford, is found dead of a gunshot wound in the building. The plot continues when another church is burned down and another young black teen is beaten severely.

Bivocational pastor and firefighter, Nick Foster, is having a hard time dealing with the loss of his church as well as the discovery that he has feelings for paramedic and "bad" girl, Issie Mattreaux--who is not a Christian. Even though Nick is a pastor, Blackstock allows us to see his vulnerabilities and makes him believable. As Nick struggles with feelings of being failure and questions his call from God, we are reminded that no one is perfect, but grace is indeed sufficient.

There are several subplots involving Susan and Ray Ford's grief over the death of their son, and their rejection of God because of it; the influence of peer pressure on Issie's nephew, Jake, and how his need for acceptance leads to consequences; and Stan and Celia Shepherd's baby is born.

The book is a great blend of action, mystery, and some romance, but the most compelling aspect of the book is the underlying message of God's love, grace, forgiveness, and sustaining strength throughout life's trials and joys--without being "preachy." ( )