What Readers Are Saying
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Realistic, Wonderful, Faith-filled, Inspired!
What a realistic take on theology and faith! The analogies were "wonderful". Thank you for introducing us to these great characters. I am inspired and had to pass it on. I am eager to read more of Bud's books and spread the news.
- Michele Browne from Davenport, IA
A jump-start for the soul!
I finished reading Conceived W/O Sin two days ago and thought the novel was even better than Pierced by a Sword which I read last year. It was especially meaningful to me to witness the faith development in Ellie and Sam as I am affirming my spiritual journey through the RCIA process which I formally began last night. (I have a friend who I plan to ask to be my sponsor and she has enjoyed the work of the author, also.
She has characterized me in the past as a "closet Catholic."
There were a few things in the book which didn't seem to "click" with me. One, I found it difficult to believe that Ellie even as a Catholic who was at the time of her marriage in a "spiritual growth spurt" would have married an agnostic no matter how much they were in love. Second, I find it very hard to believe that Sam the agnostic did not push to use artificial contraceptives after their marriage was consumated. This coupled will Ellie's expressed wish that she had not become pregnant after the fact did not not come together for me.
Overall, I felt this was an even better novel than Pierced by a Sword and am looking forward to reading House of Gold.
- Lisa from Baltimore
Reinforced my faith.
Sam, Ellie, Donna, Buzz and the rest are not just characters. They are people; people that I would like to know personally. But, "real" or not, they (and Bud, through his writing) helped me through some tough times of my own and helped me find the faith and strength to keep on keepin' on. Pass this book on, and on, and on. God bless you, Macfarlane family!
- Mikendra from Phoenix
The best contemporary Catholic novels!
I absolutely love this book! I love all three books, but this is the one that touched me the most. I found myself so drawn into the characters, that I thought of them as friends, and when Buzz was going to kill himself, I caught myself praying for him! I love reading books that portray being a faithful Catholic as a normal, loving way of life and not just a "religious freak." Can't wait for the next book.
- Debi Lange from Wixom, MI
Food for Mind, Heart, & Soul
I was very skeptical when my sister-in-law gave me this book to read. It was at a time when my husband and I were having difficulties in our marriage. This book opened my mind completely as to what I needed to do to help our marriage and to live a happier life. Now I just have to keep remembering and practicing what my Catholic faith means.
- Cathy from Texas
Fantastic reading! God bless you.
We have read all three books. I bought CONCEIVED
WITHOUT SIN in a Catholic bookstore. When Tom and I read the book, we immediately sent for the others. They were terrific. We just couldn't put them down. We are looking forward to your new book due out next year. God Bless and keep up the good work.
- Audrey & Thomas Milot from Brockton, PA
Catholic Faith Alive!
The practicality of the Catholic faith lived out in everyday situations is so ably depicted. Everyone can find himself or herself in a part of the story. The style is captivating. One cannot read and not pass this on.
- Bertilia Jean-Baptiste from Saint Lucia
It's the booster shot of catholicism!
This book opens up questions in your heart as well as your soul. I couldn't put it down--I was so caught up in the story. I put my Scapular back on and started to set time aside for praying. You never know what role Grace has in you life. This book reminded me of that. I would recommend this book to anyone with questions or doubts about the Catholic faith, as well as those that need a booster shot of catholicism!
- Nicole from Dayton, PA
Best book I've ever read!!!!!
I just finished Bud's second novel, CONCEIVED WITHOUT SIN and I absolutely loved it. I connected with each character in a special way - just as I did with PIERCED BY A SWORD. Bud has a way of making situations and people seem so real! I laughed and cried all the way through it! Thanks Bud - I can't wait to dive into HOUSE OF GOLD!!!!
- Velma Doo from Iowa
A Special Grace From God
While I really enjoyed all three books, CONCEIVED WITHOUT SIN was my favorite because of the romance. I have read all three books twice. Each one made me feel so comfortable with my faith--which is hard in this selfish society. My husband and I can hardly wait for the next novel to come out. Thanks!
- Kathy from Berwick, Louisiana
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