Hearts Set Free

By: Jess Lederman

Narrated by: Alison Maglaughlin

"Readers of inspirational fiction will love this moving story that affirms the power of God's mercy." (Publisher's Weekly)

The Alaska Territory, 1925: Thirteen-year-old Luke couldn’t be prouder of his father, whose heroic efforts have just saved thousands of lives. but his world turns upside down when dad abandons his family for a beautiful reporter from New York. Luke's mother, Yura, vows to win back her husband and kill the woman who stole his heart, and she and Luke embark on an epic cross-country quest that will lead them to the Nevada desert, and to truths - and terrors - of which they'd never dreamed.

Reno, Nevada, 1930: Boxer David Gold, a Bible-school dropout who fights as the Pummelin' Preacher, is nearing the end of his career and feeling hopelessly far from God. Then one day, a former call girl who hails from a railway stop called Las Vegas shows up at his door. She's part of a rag-tag congregation whose pastor has been murdered; the killer is still at large, they haven't a cent to pay David, but they need a fighting man to shepherd the tiny Church of the Heart Set Free. Her proposal seems sheer madness - after all, he's not really a preacher, how can he possibly do these people any good? But the Spirit is at work; it's already brought a mother and son from Alaska into his life, and now it's telling him to say yes....

Las Vegas, 2011: Science Cable T.V. big-wig Tim Faber is an arrogant narcissist determined to prove that mankind has no need of God, while his producer, Joan Reed, is trying to regain the faith of her youth. They've come to Vegas to meet with 99-year-old Luke and David Gold’s grandson, Daniel, two men who hold the key to a mystery they must solve - and answers that will forever change their lives.

"Bold and forthright writing that would set any heart on fire." (Christian blogger Miranda A. Uyeh)

©2018 Jess Lederman (P)2019 Jess Lederman

Critic reviews

"Jess Lederman's uplifting and compelling Christian novel Hearts Set Free is about hearts that come to Jesus in unexpected ways.... Gripping scenes, including some where the characters' lives are at risk, make the story feel even more genuine.... Reflecting upon the presence of a God who seeks a personal relationship with human beings, Hearts Set Free is a powerful and inspiring novel." (Foreword Clarion Review)

"...a riveting ride...the saga - which could easily span several books - embraces aspects of multiple genres, including action/adventure, supernatural, mystery, and romance. Christian fiction fans will enjoy this book, as will anyone who appreciates fine writing and expert plot development." (Blue Ink Review, starred review)

"This is a soaring historical epic, taking the reader through almost a century of interconnected and deeply meaningful story. Jess Lederman has given us unforgettable characters, ranging from lovable ones reminiscent of George MacDonald or Michael Phillips heroes, to dark characters straight out of a supernatural thriller. I wholeheartedly endorse Hearts Set Free!" (WisePath Books)

Incredible read!

Wow a page turner at the end. Some confusion in middle but so worth reading till the end.

Must read

Well written. Keeps you interested. Love the historical fiction and educational aspect. Much needed currently. The characters are people I feel are now my friends and family in Christ.

Inspirational & Uplifting

Hearts Set Free is a powerful, moving tale of forgiveness. It isn’t the easiest topic to listen to, especially if you are dealing with a battle of forgiveness yourself, but that makes it even more important.

Jess Lederman does not come off as “preachy”, which I appreciated. Instead, he depicts real-life struggles that the listener can appreciate and find relatable. The picture he paints of God's forgiveness is one of warmth, love, and acceptance. I found it especially comforting during these times.

Hearts Set Free combines tales of historical fiction with more contemporary fiction. This combination works to provide “something for everyone” and to emphasize the everlasting affect of God's word. It's comforting to know that the challenges we face today are not unique to us. Each generation before has experienced similar trials.

The overarching message of Hearts Set Free is layered and complex, yet it is presented in a straightforward manner that will resonates long after the final chapter.

There is a warning for strong language, however. I didn't particularly mind, although I was taking a little bit back at first. This use of language would keep me from recommending Hearts Set Free to my grandmother, who might otherwise enjoy it. This is an audiobook I would recommend to those who enjoy inspirational, Christian fiction. I'm also thinking about recommending it to my Christian Reader's group. There's something to be found for everyone in Hearts Set Free and you never know who is in need of hearing this message.

Alison Maglaughlin has a clear, youthful voice. Her articulation and pacing were pleasant. Her tone was believable as young and old, when appropriate. The audio quality sounded a little bit "tinny" or echoing at times, but that did not diminish my enjoyment. I also appreciated the musical melodies between chapters that marked the beginning of a new story. I enjoyed this performance and would not hesitate to recommend Hearts Set Free as an audiobook.

This audiobook was provided by its author, Jess Lederman, in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. Thanks, Jess!