By the Grace of God (Urban Christian)

But, every so often, life does not follow a positive path, and the unexpected occurs. Unfortunately for Gracie, her seemingly perfect life begins to unravel. She and her fiance begin having major problems. Then, one day out of the blue, Dillion moves out of their apartment, and severs all contact with her. Gracie is devastated by the break up and she turns to her friends and family for support. It takes a major effort on her part, but Gracie begins to pick up the pieces of her shattered life. After a little investigation, she learns that Dillion has dropped completely out of sight and he is harboring a terrible secret. There are issues with a life threatening disease that could have devastating effects on those close to him.

BY THE GRACE OF GOD by Keshia Dawn is an emotional story that highlights so many human feelings: love, betrayal and forgiveness. But the strength of this story is the emphasis on faith and trust in God. As the message pulls readers in, they will feel when the characters realize that things can be conquered 'by the grace of God.' This is a heartfelt read.

Reviewed by Simone Hawks
of The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers


You never know- until you know   February 12, 2004
S. Hudson (Tucker, GA USA)
3 out of 4 found this review helpful

By The Grace of God deals with a very private issue - HIV/AIDS and how this devastating disease affects everyone around. Gracie Gregory is someone that has overcome many hurdles and triumphed over them all before the age of thirty. A promising track star, Gracie was sidelined by injury. Still into fitness she opened a fitness center in Dallas, Texas and adjusted her life to include this Plan B. Engaged to Mr. Body Builder himself, Dillian, living in a posh apartment, success at her fingertips, who would not have thought Gracie didn't have it all. Unfortunately it wasn't meant to be. Dillian mysteriously breaks up with her sending her spiraling into a deep chasm.

Deciding to immerse herself in her work, and with the aid of her business partner and best friend Kendra, the fitness center flourishes. Members are joining, classes are filling up, business is up but there is still a negative down trend in Gracie. She received calls directing her to call the local health department and after returning the call, she is devastated by the conversation. She is asked to come in and submit herself to tests. The most agonizing days ensue as she waits to find out if the results from the test that she has taken for HIV proves that she is positive or not. She invites her parents to visit with her and although terrified to tell them, she realizes the strength that can come from their loving and Godly support. Gracie is their only child and their support is unwavering. During the time of this breakup, she meets an old flame, Marcus who happens to reside in Dallas too. Matter of fact, his fiance' is a member of Gracie's Gym and she inadvertently reintroduces the two of them again. Marcus never extinguished the flame that he carried for Gracie and soon their friendship grew into a support system.

By the Grace of God is a superbly written first novel by Keshia Dawn. The plot kept me reading until the end. I was so intrigued with how the story was going to turn out; I too waited with baited breath to hear the results of Gracie's test. I wanted to know who potentially infected her, and how they contracted this disease. I was interested in how such devastation would be handled. The reader will be shocked to see how each of the characters has such a complex role in the make up of the plot. Well written to keep you thinking and aware of your surroundings and keen on your divine purpose in life.


Excellent   January 28, 2004
This book is a real page turner and has a great twist. When we are faced with trials in our life, this book let's us know that "By the grace of God" we will be able to make it. If Gracie was able to make it through this VERY difficult time in her life, I know I can make it through the small things that I face!! Thanks Keshia for such an inspiring novel.


Wonderful   January 20, 2004
Wanda D. Hudson (NYC)
Keshia Dawn's first attempt in the literary world is simply wonderful. This prolific writer took a subject that many of us never think about, or feel will never show it's face within the realms of our world, and weaved it into a heartfelt story that made me feel compassion for all of the characters involved. I read By the Grace of God in two hours. I didn't have to, but I just didn't want to put it down. This novel drew me into the pages, and when I read the final word on the last page, although I wanted more, I felt more than satisfied. If I had a choice between eating or reading, I'd choose By the Grace of God. This novel will give you an abundance for your mind, body, and soul.