"A huge round of applause to Michelle Sutton for having the courage to write a novel that breaks through the wall of religious decorum in order to deliver a story that is not only extremely real in its graphic detail but one that will certainly help many people dealing with temptation and sin. In The Anatomy of a Temptation, we get an up close view of sin in all its ugliness and then witness its horrid impact on the lives of everyone it touches—even the innocent. But through it all, the theme of unconditional love and forgiveness of God reigns, giving a sharp contrast on those who call upon His name for forgiveness and those who do not. Rarely does a novel impact me so intensely as The Anatomy of a Temptation. Michelle's deeply human characters will stay in my heart and thoughts for many years to come."
MaryLu Tyndall http://www.mltyndall.com
The Redemption - Barbour 2006
The Reliance - Barbour 2007
The Restitution - Barbour 2007
The Anatomy of Temptation
"Michelle Sutton has to be one of the most courageous authors I’ve had the privilege of knowing. All her stories fearlessly address the deepest, most intimate struggles real people in the real world face. And in her latest, The Anatomy of Temptation, she explores the hidden fault lines in her heroine's relationship with her husband that lead to heart-wrenching fractures she never believed her marriage could be vulnerable to. The writing is honest, as raw as it is pure, and pulls no punches. From the very first sentence, Sutton engages and convicts the reader, graphically demonstrating how none of us is immune to Satan’s unrelenting attacks against our weakest points. The truly uplifting conclusion of this story is all grace, showing how God’s tender mercy can redeem any situation and restore relationships that from a human standpoint must be forever broken. Yet as her heroine says: “I’m forgiven, yes. But I will never forget.” Neither with Sutton’s readers."
J. M. Hochstetler, author of One Holy Night (Sheaf House, November 2007), and Daughter of Liberty and Native Son (Zondervan), books 1 and 2 of the acclaimed American Patriot Series.
The Anatomy of Temptation
"Riveting. Sutton attacks a difficult subject, especially in Christianity, and makes it alive and real. The story is deeply moving and is a definite page turner. It was impossible to put down and I finished it in an evening. A powerful debut that left me wanting more from this gifted author."
Sherri L. Lewis
My Soul Cries Out, Urban Christian Books
The Anatomy of Temptation
"I've read several of Michelle Sutton's novels. Each one is a page turner. Her style is unique and captivating. The Anatomy of Temptation, is probably the most intense one of them all. Michelle addresses a major problem that most Christians wouldn't dare touch because they consider the subject taboo. But the sad truth is, more and more Christians are falling victim to the enticing lure of adultery and infidelity. And to those who think it will never happen to you...beware. Let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. I Corinthians 10:12. Michelle vividly shows the devastating consequences of ones adulterous actions, and how it not only effects the one doing it, but their spouses, their children, their friends, neighbors, church members, but most importantly, their relationship with the Lord. The downward spiraling effect is horrific.
The Anatomy of Temptation, reveals the true-to-life inner struggles, the spiritual devastation, the trauma of all parties involved--innocent or otherwise--and the consequences of giving into the temptation of sin. Michelle does a fantastic job of showing God's tender mercy, His loving kindness, His forgiveness, and His grace-filled restoring power. Fantastic job, Michelle!"
Debra Ullrick, THE BRIDE WORE COVERALLS (Heartsong Presents, Barbour Publishing)
The Anatomy of Temptation
"Author Michelle Sutton has taken a bold step in writing this honest, straight-from-the-heart novel about infidelity and its consequences. Ultimately, however, this book is about unconditional love, and in the end, that’s the message that shines through. I commend her courage in penning this life-changing story."
Kathi Macias - Author of seventeen books, including the bestselling devotional A Moment A Day and the popular Matthews & Matthews detective series from B&H.
The Anatomy of Temptation
"The Anatomy of Temptation is a story that any Christian in a temporary fallen state can relate to. Michelle Sutton writes about temptation, something we all struggle with, straight from the heart, and provides much encouragement. The guilt and internal thoughts Lilly has are so real, and the forgiveness part of the story is powerful. In conclusion, this book is inspiring because it offers hope to the reader that all things are truly possible with God's help."
Jenadee Webb, poet and reader
The Anatomy of Temptation
"The Anatomy of Temptation read more like suspense than women’s fiction. I found myself immediately immersed in the characters trials. Lilly has taught us that sin comes with a price, but where there is true repentance, there is redemption which has its own rewards. Michelle Sutton is a gifted writer, a breath of fresh air and dare I say realism for the Christian market. I look forward to seeing more of this author’s work. Excellent characterization and conflict. Strong writing. I couldn’t put it down."
Rhonda McKnight Nain, social worker and pre-published novelist
When Love Collides
"Michelle Sutton has a wonderful ability for drawing her readers in with the very first words, making them want to continue.
The windows rattled. Raquel Taylor peered through the blinds. Gusts of wind assaulted her apartment building, ripping the leaves from trees.
Right from the start, Michelle locked me into this story, keeping the pace moving with interesting plot lines and lively description. Her characters appear real, making me empathize with their hurts and desires. I found myself wanting to console Raquel as she stumbles her way through a number of difficult life situations (unanswered questions surrounding her mother’s suicide, haunting memories involving her abusive ex-husband, assisting a beloved, ailing aunt, and dealing with her own debilitating, physical ailments). And I couldn’t help but cheer on Scott, the doctor friend who reenters Raquel’s life after a ten-year absence, his renewed love for his former girlfriend lending hope and depth to the story. Of course, in the end, what really ties this story together is the wonderful spiritual element—God at work in the midst of trying circumstances. While Michelle’s technique is not “preachy”, she manages to impress upon her readers the fact of God’s love and plan for His children. This is a story worth reading, and one I’m sure will hit the publishing scene. It’s just a matter of time!"
Sharlene MacLaren, author of Through Every Storm and Loving Liza Jane, Sara, My Beloved, and Courting Emma from the Little Hickman Creek Series, published by Whitaker House.
Hold the Onions
"Hold the Onions captured my attention from word one. I was hooked and couldn't stop reading. Michelle Sutton's characterization is superb. I experienced every emotion as if I were a part of the story myself. And speaking of the story, it's very uniqueness alone is reason enough to read it. That's not all though, because Michelle's writing sweeps you along in every aspect. I couldn't say I found one element weaker than the other, as everything blends perfectly to give the reader a ride they won't soon forget. I was only able to read a few chapters while Hold the Onions was in its beginning stages, but I wanted to read so much more. I truly missed following along to discover what happens to these characters, but I'm looking forward to doing that at the time this book is published.
Deborah M. Piccurelli, author of In the Midst of Deceit
Hold the Onions
"A strong sense of characterization drives this story to places we wish to go, and places we do not. Normally I would advise against the use of writing in accents, but Sutton does so in a way that few professional authors have the ability to do. She has placed her heroine in an impossible situation, given her someone to help her out. That someone soon becomes more than just a friend, but God's anointed vessel to bring freedom and healing into her life. Writing like this isn't a fluke. This is the real thing. You will feel the self-imposed bondage of the woman, the anxiety of the man who comes into her life to help her. You will laugh and cry with them. This, to me, is the goal of every writer, to make you, the reader, feel as many emotions as possible, to place you into the story. She does this and more. When you are through you find she has taught you things about God's grace and forgiveness you may never have thought about before. I don't care what kind of books you are used to reading, Hold the Onions is one you need to read. It will make you tense, afraid, break you down in laughter and joy. In short it will bless you again and again. I hesitate to say any more for I want you to enjoy all the wonders that Michelle Sutton has in store for you in this beautifully crafted work. I hope that my characters feel as real as do hers."
David Brollier - author of The 3rd Covenant
Lover of My Soul
"One of the most effective moments in the beginning of this novel is when we meet Dave Passel, our hero. We’re still in the process of wiping the slime away after heroine Diane Simmons has faced less-than-ideal circumstances at the hands of two creepy excuses for men. We meet Dave before Diane does. We’re immediately intrigued with how Sutton is going to get them together. But Sutton forces us to hang in there, grappling with the conflicts which will draw Diane and Dave to each other. The grappling is fun, absorbing, and ultimately rewarding. A fine read!"
Trish Perry, author of The Guy I’m Not Dating and Too Good to Be True from Harvest House Publishers
General endorsements
"Reading Michelle Sutton's work is almost like an out-of-body experience. From the very first page, I was swept into the world of her heroine, destined for an emotional tidal wave over the plight of a character who was so natural, so real that I felt as if she were flesh and blood. Characterization this finely crafted truly transports a reader out of their world into another, where a heart-wrenching plot laced with spiritual truths grabs you by the throat and refuses to let go."
Julie Lessman, author of A Passion Most Pure, from Revell 2008
"Michelle Sutton's characterization really brings her characters to life. I enjoy reading about their emotional issues and how they resolve their problems."
Robin Caroll, author of the bayou series by Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense
"Michelle Sutton's fiction reaches beyond the traditional boundaries of CBA, and challenges readers to examine difficult topics from a fresh perspective."
Kacy Barnett-Gramckow
The Genesis Trilogy
THE HEAVENS BEFORE
HE WHO LIFTS THE SKIES
A CROWN IN THE STARS
"Over the years I've read chapters from different works of Michelle's and her writing always makes me long for the entire manuscripts while on a beach for a week."
Cindy Woodsmall
CBA Best-selling novel ~ When the Heart Cries
"Michelle Sutton is one of those rare authors who brings not only a fresh voice to the book scene but an unselfish willingness to promote what many might consider her competition. Her glowing reviews of other people's books show the depth of character from which her own writing flows, and explains why her characters are so alive. Read one of her books--and you'll be standing in line for the next one!"
Kathi Macias - Author of seventeen books, including the bestselling devotional A Moment A Day and the popular Matthews & Matthews detective series from B&H.
"Michelle Sutton grabs readers’ hearts and pulls them through wrenching emotional lows to dizzying spiritual heights. Fiction is about creating a satisfying emotional experience, and Ms. Sutton delivers."
Susan Lohrer
The Write Words Editing
"I've had the opportunity to read Michelle Sutton's work, and I've enjoyed the journey and the places her stories have taken me. Michelle has a gift for description, and her love of writing Christian fiction is clearly evidenced in her novels. I look forward to the day when I see Michelle's books on the shelves! I will be first in line to purchase a copy."
Kathleen Fuller author of Never Broken and San Antonio Sunset
"As a crit partner over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to read much of Michelle’s writing. Years of experience as a social worker have given her the courage to tackle difficult subjects through story. Her love for the reader gives her the ability to use these stories to touch the heart and give hope."
Dawn Kinzer
"The characters in Lover of My Soul and Then Sings My Soul seemed real to me. I wanted to know their stories to see how God worked in their lives."
Rae Gibson, child abuse survivor
