"A compelling novel with gut-wrenching courtroom drama like no other in its genre"

BREACH OF PROMISE is, perhaps, James Scott Bell at his best. As a longtime fan of the author, I expected to enjoy his latest legal thriller, never expected to be as consumed as I was. As a Christian man, my wife and I have beaten some amazing odds. We've managed to stay happily married for the last twelve years and I consider that bond sacred. My wife and I have three wonderful children and not a single day goes by that don't thank God for the blessings He's allowed us. But after reading BREACH OF PROMISE, I understand even more how fortunate my family is.

Why am I telling you all of this? Because Mark Gillen, the main character is not nearly as luck as I have been. He is a struggling actor, married to Paula, a beautiful woman, who is also an actor, but with a steady job on a soap opera. Together they have a daughter, five-year-old Madeline. But in the snap of a finger, life changes for the Gillens. Paula's agent has landed her a role in a major motion picture, working for one of Hollywood's hottest directors. For four months, Paula must stay in Italy, where the film is being shot, while Mark remains at home taking care of Maddie.

It isn't long before the paparazzi clutter the tabloids with information about a steamy love affair between the director and Paula. Though pained and heartbroken, Mark is just anxious for Paula to return home, certain they can work things out. The last thing he expects is a request for a divorce, but the worst thing that happens is Paula wants custody of Maddie.

Behind the director's wealth, Paul retains a shark of an attorney that stops at nothing to win custody for his client. Mark feels as if his only choice is to drown in the wake of the shark's feeding frenzy. Until he discovers the one card he has left to play: The God card. But can faith in Christ overcome the anger and emptiness he feels inside? Is it by chance that he is lead to the doorstep of a Christian attorney? Or that he meets a woman involved in a Christian acting group?

These questions spin around in Mark's head, muddling his view and obscuring his focus. He wants his daughter back, and the false accusations to stop. Prayer may be the strongest alliance of all. But Mark learns, if the prayer request does not match God's will ... then it may seem like your prayer is not being answered. And if your prayers go unanswered, why pray?

BREACH OF PROMISE is that kind of book that once you start reading it, you can't stop. If you do stop, then you can't stop thinking about the characters. It is a compelling novel with gut-wrenching courtroom drama like no other in its genre. It has characters that are three-dimensional, dialogue that is crisp, and a battle for custody that will leave you feeling hallow and helpless. Like DEADLOCK and his other novels, James Scott Bell is not afraid to tackle the controversial issues head-on using solid scriptures as his weapon.

Reviewed by Phillip Tomasso
Posted April 25, 2004