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Miller's Creek #4
Pilgrimage of Promise
Broken promises, enduring love...
A dusty stack of unopened love letters forces Bo and Mona Beth Miller to revisit a part of their past they’d rather leave buried–especially in the face of death. Only as they retrace history will they learn the truth about the shattered promise that threatens to come between them. But can their relationship endure the deception and sabotage they unearth, or will the experience compel them to trust more fully in the promises that never fail?
A dusty stack of unopened love letters forces Bo and Mona Beth Miller to revisit a part of their past they’d rather leave buried–especially in the face of death. Only as they retrace history will they learn the truth about the shattered promise that threatens to come between them. But can their relationship endure the deception and sabotage they unearth, or will the experience compel them to trust more fully in the promises that never fail?
304 pages, Paperback
Published March 1, 2013
759 people are currently reading
769 people want to read
About the author
Cathy Bryant
43 books390 followersNow that Cathy has moved her books to a faith-based writing ministry, all of her eBooks can be downloaded for free. if you would like to support her ministry -- whether financially, in prayer, or by sharing the books with others -- please visit this page for more info: https://cathybryantbooks.wordpress.co...
TEXAS ROADS (Book 1; Christian contemporary romance): https://cathybryantbooks.wordpress.co...
A PATH LESS TRAVELED (Book 2; Christian contemporary romance): https://cathybryantbooks.wordpress.co...
THE WAY OF GRACE (Book 3; Christian contemporary romantic suspense): https://cathybryantbooks.wordpress.co...
PILGRIMAGE OF PROMISE (Book 4; Christian contemporary/historical love story): https://cathybryantbooks.wordpress.co...
A BRIDGE UNBROKEN (Book 5; Christian contemporary romantic suspense): https://cathybryantbooks.wordpress.co...
CROSSROADS (Book 6; Christian contemporary romance): https://cathybryantbooks.wordpress.co...
STILL I WILL FOLLOW (Book 7; Christian contemporary romantic suspense): https://cathybryantbooks.wordpress.co...
Other Fiction by Cathy Bryant -
PIECES ON EARTH (Contemporary Christian novella about finding God's peace in life's pieces): https://cathybryantbooks.wordpress.co...
TEXAS ROADS (Book 1; Christian contemporary romance): https://cathybryantbooks.wordpress.co...
A PATH LESS TRAVELED (Book 2; Christian contemporary romance): https://cathybryantbooks.wordpress.co...
THE WAY OF GRACE (Book 3; Christian contemporary romantic suspense): https://cathybryantbooks.wordpress.co...
PILGRIMAGE OF PROMISE (Book 4; Christian contemporary/historical love story): https://cathybryantbooks.wordpress.co...
A BRIDGE UNBROKEN (Book 5; Christian contemporary romantic suspense): https://cathybryantbooks.wordpress.co...
CROSSROADS (Book 6; Christian contemporary romance): https://cathybryantbooks.wordpress.co...
STILL I WILL FOLLOW (Book 7; Christian contemporary romantic suspense): https://cathybryantbooks.wordpress.co...
Other Fiction by Cathy Bryant -
PIECES ON EARTH (Contemporary Christian novella about finding God's peace in life's pieces): https://cathybryantbooks.wordpress.co...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
July 5, 2013
In 2012, a diagnosis of cancer impels Bo Miller to address the reasons he didn’t keep his promise to his high-school sweetheart, Mona Beth Adams. She’s not just reluctant to revisit the past: she’s openly hostile about it. They are given a stack of forty-year-old letters, which might just open the doors …
Pilgrimage of Promise moves between the 1960’s and the present as we are shown how Mona Beth and Bo meet and fall in love, and the obstacles and misunderstandings that eventually separated them. It’s an interesting way to tell a story: we know in the present that they were separated but reunited, but we still have to live through the past anguish with them (mentally shouting “don’t do that, you stupid woman” to some of the minor characters as we go).
This was the final book in the Millers Creek series, following Texas Roads, A Path Less Travelled and The Way of Grace. I haven’t read the others, and I found Pilgrimage of Promise can easily be read as a stand-alone, as the focus is on what happened in the past more than the present. Yes, reading this first might ‘spoil’ some of the plot points in the previous novels, but I can also see how it will tie up some of the lingering questions in the earlier books.
The story had a strong Christian theme. What I found particularly interesting was the way teenage Mona Beth was the one with the strong faith, but in the present it was Bo who was stronger. I very much liked the way the book dealt with some difficult subject matter without descending into angst or over-emoting (I can think of one famous author who I no longer read because she hasn’t learned this lesson). That’s one of the reasons I liked Pilgrimage of Promise so much—because of the strong writing. I also really liked the characters, who were so much more realistic and human than many I see in Christian fiction. I even enjoyed the bittersweet nature of the plot. I’ll certainly read more from Cathy Bryant. Recommended.
Thanks to the author for providing a free ebook for review.
Pilgrimage of Promise moves between the 1960’s and the present as we are shown how Mona Beth and Bo meet and fall in love, and the obstacles and misunderstandings that eventually separated them. It’s an interesting way to tell a story: we know in the present that they were separated but reunited, but we still have to live through the past anguish with them (mentally shouting “don’t do that, you stupid woman” to some of the minor characters as we go).
This was the final book in the Millers Creek series, following Texas Roads, A Path Less Travelled and The Way of Grace. I haven’t read the others, and I found Pilgrimage of Promise can easily be read as a stand-alone, as the focus is on what happened in the past more than the present. Yes, reading this first might ‘spoil’ some of the plot points in the previous novels, but I can also see how it will tie up some of the lingering questions in the earlier books.
The story had a strong Christian theme. What I found particularly interesting was the way teenage Mona Beth was the one with the strong faith, but in the present it was Bo who was stronger. I very much liked the way the book dealt with some difficult subject matter without descending into angst or over-emoting (I can think of one famous author who I no longer read because she hasn’t learned this lesson). That’s one of the reasons I liked Pilgrimage of Promise so much—because of the strong writing. I also really liked the characters, who were so much more realistic and human than many I see in Christian fiction. I even enjoyed the bittersweet nature of the plot. I’ll certainly read more from Cathy Bryant. Recommended.
Thanks to the author for providing a free ebook for review.
May 1, 2013
This is an amazing, touching, read!
Though I have not read the earlier books in the series it did not take away at all from the story, which was engaging, humorous, at times, and impeccably well done. Bryant has some really great talent and knowledge, something that is very obvious in her writing and characters. It was really hard to quit reading! I finished it in an afternoon.
In Pilgrimage of Promise, Cathy brings to life the 1960s complete with the Vietnam War, Kennedy's assassination, and so forth. To me, this was invaluable. I cannot really get into historical books whose author hasn't done their research. It just doesn't feel real. So definite thumbs up for that. I also liked how she balanced all our questions as we go from the year 2012 to long flashbacks in the '60s. The mystery and the questions really drew me in. In some ways, it felt like we were reading two different stories- a good thing, mind you.
I also adored Mona Beth. I couldn't have asked for a better heroine. She was always loyal to a mere promise and did all she could to help her parents stay afloat financially. Not to mention her faith and trust in God through all her misfortunes. Who could ask for a more likable character?
Anyway, this is one you will want to check out if you're interested. I really enjoyed it and give it a full 5 star rating. My only complaint is it was too short. Without a doubt, if I ever find the time, I will be reading the earlier novels in the series. :-)
I received a complimentary review copy from the author in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thanks, Cathy!!
Though I have not read the earlier books in the series it did not take away at all from the story, which was engaging, humorous, at times, and impeccably well done. Bryant has some really great talent and knowledge, something that is very obvious in her writing and characters. It was really hard to quit reading! I finished it in an afternoon.
In Pilgrimage of Promise, Cathy brings to life the 1960s complete with the Vietnam War, Kennedy's assassination, and so forth. To me, this was invaluable. I cannot really get into historical books whose author hasn't done their research. It just doesn't feel real. So definite thumbs up for that. I also liked how she balanced all our questions as we go from the year 2012 to long flashbacks in the '60s. The mystery and the questions really drew me in. In some ways, it felt like we were reading two different stories- a good thing, mind you.
I also adored Mona Beth. I couldn't have asked for a better heroine. She was always loyal to a mere promise and did all she could to help her parents stay afloat financially. Not to mention her faith and trust in God through all her misfortunes. Who could ask for a more likable character?
Anyway, this is one you will want to check out if you're interested. I really enjoyed it and give it a full 5 star rating. My only complaint is it was too short. Without a doubt, if I ever find the time, I will be reading the earlier novels in the series. :-)
I received a complimentary review copy from the author in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thanks, Cathy!!
August 17, 2017
.
This book paints Mona Beth "Momma Beth" a lot less sure of her self and her faith in God. She is usually the one to lift people up in prayer and give good advice. Here, she struggles to accept the enevitble and refuses to do what her husband desparately wants before he dies.
I usually don't like going back and for between past and present; but in this book, it seemed to flow quite nicely.
I can't believe the manipulation and purposefully, hurtful things that were said and done to keep these two people in love apart. It is difficult to understand why people can't allow others to determine the future of their own lives. This same sentiment seems to be running rampant today with our government try to be in charge of individual lives, instead of allowing people to make their own personal choices.
This book paints Mona Beth "Momma Beth" a lot less sure of her self and her faith in God. She is usually the one to lift people up in prayer and give good advice. Here, she struggles to accept the enevitble and refuses to do what her husband desparately wants before he dies.
I usually don't like going back and for between past and present; but in this book, it seemed to flow quite nicely.
I can't believe the manipulation and purposefully, hurtful things that were said and done to keep these two people in love apart. It is difficult to understand why people can't allow others to determine the future of their own lives. This same sentiment seems to be running rampant today with our government try to be in charge of individual lives, instead of allowing people to make their own personal choices.
May 28, 2013
This book is part of a series. I haven't read them all, but it isn't necessary to enjoy and follow this book. The more familiar you are with the characters the better - but reading the rest of the books would be like icing on a very good cake.
This was a bittersweet story. It seemed more true to life than some. We watch Bo and Mona Beth go through a series of bumps in the road on their way through life. We also watch them grow as people as they endure the trials. In the end there is a strength and beauty that wouldn't have been possible otherwise.
I want to thank the author for my copy. Her generosity in no way influenced my review though.
This was a bittersweet story. It seemed more true to life than some. We watch Bo and Mona Beth go through a series of bumps in the road on their way through life. We also watch them grow as people as they endure the trials. In the end there is a strength and beauty that wouldn't have been possible otherwise.
I want to thank the author for my copy. Her generosity in no way influenced my review though.
September 16, 2018
Enjoyed the latest in the series. Well plotted and characters are finely developed. Clean read and Christian-based. Recommended for a summers day reading.
April 28, 2020
Love that doesn’t die, even when others try to kill it
Yet another masterpiece in the Miller’s Creek series by Cathy Bryant! The style of this novel is different than the previous books in the series, since it delves into the past as much as the present, through both the memories and old correspondence of a couple whose unexpected detours through life has taught them to trust God despite broken dreams and promises.
The story begins with Bo Miller’s fight against cancer due to exposure to Agent Orange. His daughter-in-law produces old unopened letters from him to his high school sweetheart and ones from her to him. Intercepted before they could be delivered to their intended recipients, the letters provide answers as to why Bo and his beloved Mona Beth Adams did not marry after their college and high school graduations as planned.
Mona Beth doesn’t want to relive painful memories of the past. She wants to help Bo get well and enjoy their time together as long as possible. Finally he persuades her. As they read one another’s letters from the 1960s and 70s, they realize that despite the plot between Bo’s controlling mother and Mona Beth’s jealous sister to keep them apart, God used the broken promises and disappointments to shape them into the amazing people they are today.
Although this story doesn’t have quite the same sort of happy ending as the first few in Cathy’s series, it does end well. It should be an encouragement to those for whom life has taken unexpected turns that God can be trusted to take our disappointments and heartbreak and lead us along good paths. All of the books in this series are free, so you can enjoy them at no cost and gift them to others. Keep tissues handy, because this book is not a bit of fluff like some contemporary romance novels!
Yet another masterpiece in the Miller’s Creek series by Cathy Bryant! The style of this novel is different than the previous books in the series, since it delves into the past as much as the present, through both the memories and old correspondence of a couple whose unexpected detours through life has taught them to trust God despite broken dreams and promises.
The story begins with Bo Miller’s fight against cancer due to exposure to Agent Orange. His daughter-in-law produces old unopened letters from him to his high school sweetheart and ones from her to him. Intercepted before they could be delivered to their intended recipients, the letters provide answers as to why Bo and his beloved Mona Beth Adams did not marry after their college and high school graduations as planned.
Mona Beth doesn’t want to relive painful memories of the past. She wants to help Bo get well and enjoy their time together as long as possible. Finally he persuades her. As they read one another’s letters from the 1960s and 70s, they realize that despite the plot between Bo’s controlling mother and Mona Beth’s jealous sister to keep them apart, God used the broken promises and disappointments to shape them into the amazing people they are today.
Although this story doesn’t have quite the same sort of happy ending as the first few in Cathy’s series, it does end well. It should be an encouragement to those for whom life has taken unexpected turns that God can be trusted to take our disappointments and heartbreak and lead us along good paths. All of the books in this series are free, so you can enjoy them at no cost and gift them to others. Keep tissues handy, because this book is not a bit of fluff like some contemporary romance novels!
March 31, 2018
People who think they're better than other people are one of my biggest pet peeve! That's one of the foundations of this book: the consequences of that unhealthy attitude. Bo Miller's parents are wealthy and look down on everyone who isn't. Mona Beth Adams is not wealthy, but she's honest, sincere, kind, and interesting. Bo falls in love with her, but his mother and Mona Beth's sister, Cecille, work together to keep them apart. Mrs. Miller basically kidnaps Bo and takes him to her friend's house in Atlanta. Her friend's daughter Evelyn is happy to work on helping Bo get over Mona Beth. Cecille intercepts all the letters to and from Bo. In the end, though, Mrs. Miller, Evelyn, and Cecille all die miserable while Bo and Mona Beth outlive the manipulative people who ruined their youth and enjoy several years with Bo's children, Mona Beth's daughter, and their grandchildren.
Thankfully, this book had fewer typos than the previous three in the series. It also had fewer story flaws than the previous three. I don't love the back-and-forth between time lines, but it wasn't confusing at all. Some of Mama Beth's reactions were out of character, but she ended up back to normal.
Thankfully, this book had fewer typos than the previous three in the series. It also had fewer story flaws than the previous three. I don't love the back-and-forth between time lines, but it wasn't confusing at all. Some of Mama Beth's reactions were out of character, but she ended up back to normal.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2017
This seems to be a recurring theme in Christian fiction and i simply do not like it. There is a call for women to be a certain way in order to earn love from men. They must be homemakers, they must be doormats, they have to be all whiny and weepy and they must always suffer - they are left for more worldly women, they are raped. I do not understand it one bit. Neither do I understand the position that women who dare to challenge this notion - the ones that go to school, the ones that like spending time with their friends are bad ugly people that neither love God or their families. I also did not understand why the author found it necessary to marry the offsprings of the two main characters. I am honestly to uninspired to write anything else.
The only reason why this book got two stars as opposed to one is that the message of God's faithfulness was clear throughout the book. Indeed he is all we need and we should rejoice in that fact as opposed to pitying ourselves. Granted a lot of bad things happened in this book but most (though not all) came from the poor choices made by the various characters.
The only reason why this book got two stars as opposed to one is that the message of God's faithfulness was clear throughout the book. Indeed he is all we need and we should rejoice in that fact as opposed to pitying ourselves. Granted a lot of bad things happened in this book but most (though not all) came from the poor choices made by the various characters.
February 17, 2018
Very Emotional
I had a difficult time reading this book. I realize death is a part of life. What I had the most problems with was Mona Beth or Mama Beth who is the backbone of the other books, being so spineless, and lacking in faith in areas she preached others so often in the past. Even when she was begged to listen, she denied all requests, causing more pain by closing her heart.
As an older person, I can understand if she was younger and not letting go of her anger. But as friends and ex coworkers appear in obituaries weekly, younger than Mona Beth, I think an injustice was done. She may have had problems with what she was hearing, but I don't believe a woman of faith would have acted like an ostrich for so long. This book was a disappointment compared to the first three books.
I had a difficult time reading this book. I realize death is a part of life. What I had the most problems with was Mona Beth or Mama Beth who is the backbone of the other books, being so spineless, and lacking in faith in areas she preached others so often in the past. Even when she was begged to listen, she denied all requests, causing more pain by closing her heart.
As an older person, I can understand if she was younger and not letting go of her anger. But as friends and ex coworkers appear in obituaries weekly, younger than Mona Beth, I think an injustice was done. She may have had problems with what she was hearing, but I don't believe a woman of faith would have acted like an ostrich for so long. This book was a disappointment compared to the first three books.
July 2, 2017
Mama Beth is one of the most delightful personalities in the Millers Creek novels. Pilgrimage of Promise is her story. Much of the book is written in flashbacks to her life in the 1960s and early 1970s and in that way is different from the other books in the series. For those of us who grew up in those days we will never forget things such as where we were when President John Kennedy was shot and seeing the coverage of Viet Nam on television. Even though this is contemporary fiction it is also historical fiction. And, be prepared with tissues along the way as you make this tender journey.
November 26, 2017
I am really enjoying this whole series. This book is on Mama Beth who is like the town's go to person.
Having lived thru much pain and loss, not understanding why, she still looks to God for daily guidance. Guidance for herself and those seeking her guidance. In this particular book she finds out why her relationship with Bo Miller didn't pan out and how in that process he helped out her family. Her time later in life that her and Bo finally get their time is cut short due to cancer but with G o d and family she comes out stronger than going than ever. Wonderful story story that at times will bring tears to your eyes.
Having lived thru much pain and loss, not understanding why, she still looks to God for daily guidance. Guidance for herself and those seeking her guidance. In this particular book she finds out why her relationship with Bo Miller didn't pan out and how in that process he helped out her family. Her time later in life that her and Bo finally get their time is cut short due to cancer but with G o d and family she comes out stronger than going than ever. Wonderful story story that at times will bring tears to your eyes.
August 15, 2021
An exceptional story that is written with both empathy and understanding. It gives a love story a different meaning as you get involved in Mona Beth and Bo's life.
The spiritual promptings of the Holy Spirit an added bonus that teach you to listen, and to stay connected. Even if you do not understand, God has a way to put things together.
It is an unusual story that begins at the end and leads you on a journey of promises made between two teenagers. A promise so strong that nothing could keep them from fulfilling it. Until time and pain have gotten too much - the wait too long.
The spiritual promptings of the Holy Spirit an added bonus that teach you to listen, and to stay connected. Even if you do not understand, God has a way to put things together.
It is an unusual story that begins at the end and leads you on a journey of promises made between two teenagers. A promise so strong that nothing could keep them from fulfilling it. Until time and pain have gotten too much - the wait too long.
May 20, 2021
Bitter sweet reunion of past sweethearts, Mona Beth and Bo has some catching up to do before their second reunion. I am also a little like Mona Beth I would not wanted to read letters of the past, especially a past as painful as their’s The book keeps me spell bound I could hardly put the book down whenever I was reading it. I would recommend this author and the book to anyone who like a good romance novel.
January 21, 2017
This book reminded me of the hymn Standing on the promises of God....such a sweet love story, that shows how lives can have so many twists and turns...I know people who, had parents break up their relationships...wouldn't it be wonderful, if we all trusted, and searched Gods will as Mona Beth and Bo did.
May 20, 2018
Heartache and courage
Bo and Mona Beth lived in a time before instant communication, when parents could easily shape the course of a young persons life and change it forever. Their love for each other and more importantly for God carried them through the tough times to a future they couldn't have foseen!
Bo and Mona Beth lived in a time before instant communication, when parents could easily shape the course of a young persons life and change it forever. Their love for each other and more importantly for God carried them through the tough times to a future they couldn't have foseen!
August 21, 2019
WOW!!!!!
This is an awe-inspiring, jaw-dropping book. It filled in so many unanswered questions brought on by the preceding books, for me. It made laugh and cry, so sad for Mona Beth and Bo, after all they had been through, but also to think what they have to look forward to in the forever with Jesus.
This is an awe-inspiring, jaw-dropping book. It filled in so many unanswered questions brought on by the preceding books, for me. It made laugh and cry, so sad for Mona Beth and Bo, after all they had been through, but also to think what they have to look forward to in the forever with Jesus.
July 23, 2017
Book 4
This one was a little harder for me for several reasons. It is very important for us to look at our past hurts and things, and let God work to bring about the healing that we need.
This one was a little harder for me for several reasons. It is very important for us to look at our past hurts and things, and let God work to bring about the healing that we need.
October 15, 2017
Sad but Beautiful
Well that was a tear-jerker but a beautiful story of God^s love and grace. A story of His faithfulness and His never-ending promises! Even through the difficulties life throws at us God is always with His own!
Well that was a tear-jerker but a beautiful story of God^s love and grace. A story of His faithfulness and His never-ending promises! Even through the difficulties life throws at us God is always with His own!
May 31, 2018
Another beautiful story
The beginning couple of chapters drive me crazy. I thought I aS gonna skip this one. But I stuck with it and tell in love all over again with this series. Great story of love and relying on the lord
The beginning couple of chapters drive me crazy. I thought I aS gonna skip this one. But I stuck with it and tell in love all over again with this series. Great story of love and relying on the lord
July 5, 2018
Her heroines are unlikable to me. Did not read this whole book. Read the other three.
SPOILER: Book opens with a man being diagnosed with terminal cancer. Goes back to the 60's and starts to tell their story. I just don't want to read this.
SPOILER: Book opens with a man being diagnosed with terminal cancer. Goes back to the 60's and starts to tell their story. I just don't want to read this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2018
written with great understanding
This incredible read was lovely, tragic, and filled with God's promises. I was reluctant to read this when i discovered it was about Mama Beth and Bo. Their story was devastatingly heart wrenching and glorious!
This incredible read was lovely, tragic, and filled with God's promises. I was reluctant to read this when i discovered it was about Mama Beth and Bo. Their story was devastatingly heart wrenching and glorious!
December 28, 2018
Another wonderful story about Miller Creek. This one was harder for me to read as it hit topics closer to home. But the message about God's promise versus our own promises is very well portrayed in this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2019
Fascinating read
What a great book! I loved how it switched back and forth between the past and the present. It also really showed how the journey to healing often involves more pain along the way.
What a great book! I loved how it switched back and forth between the past and the present. It also really showed how the journey to healing often involves more pain along the way.
October 20, 2019
Excellent read. Did not disappoint!
Excellent read. Did not disappoint! I can't enough goid about the author's style and way of writing. Many excellent points made that would clarify things for a new Christian.
Excellent read. Did not disappoint! I can't enough goid about the author's style and way of writing. Many excellent points made that would clarify things for a new Christian.
July 20, 2020
Bo and Mona Beth's story
This is such a great story, and an continuation of Miller's Creek. It's been a very long time since a book has moved me to tears. This one had me crying through at least the last half of it!
This is such a great story, and an continuation of Miller's Creek. It's been a very long time since a book has moved me to tears. This one had me crying through at least the last half of it!
June 5, 2017
He lives
Yes he lives in side of me . Excellent book, beautiful story of love and faith. You must read the first thru the 4th.
Yes he lives in side of me . Excellent book, beautiful story of love and faith. You must read the first thru the 4th.
October 17, 2017
Promise
Loving these books! A lovely family, so much love. I hope they continue to care for Mona Beth throughout her life.
Loving these books! A lovely family, so much love. I hope they continue to care for Mona Beth throughout her life.
January 6, 2018
Great love story!
Tear jerker all the way through! Loved it!
Enjoyed the way the story went from the future to the past and back again!
Tear jerker all the way through! Loved it!
Enjoyed the way the story went from the future to the past and back again!
April 18, 2018
Predictable, but addicting series :)
July 5, 2018
This is by far the best Miller's Creek series book yet!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews