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Fifteen Minutes

Review

Fifteen Minutes

Like so many young, talented hopefuls in this world, Zack Dylan thinks winning a popular television reality show will make his dreams come true. The fame would never change him…or so he believes. It would provide the money needed to save his family’s Kentucky horse farm and for better medical care for his little sister. It would give him the opportunity to do what he loves --- sing --- while providing a public venue for sharing his faith. For someone like Zack, who loves God, his family and fiancé, whose faith is rock solid, fame could only be a good thing. But when Zack becomes the most popular contestant on “Fifteen Minutes,” he discovers that the glittery façade of fame veils a powerful dark side.

Reese Weatherly has a bad feeling about Zack’s audition. His good looks are exceeded only by his remarkable talent, and she has no doubt he will go far. But will it be too far? She loves him with all her heart, just as she loves his family and their life in Kentucky. And as Zack leaves for the “Fifteen Minutes” audition, she tries to believe his promise that nothing will change. But all she can do is pray.

"FIFTEEN MINUTES will enchant readers like talent reality shows captivate viewers.... I would definitely recommend this book to fellow Christians, who will love the story and relate to the faith and temptations of its characters."

Chandra Olson knows all about fame, from its captivating glimmer to its devastating cost. The moment she became the season’s winner on “Fifteen Minutes” a few years prior, she was swallowed by the celebrity lifestyle, living large, hardly acknowledging the family and faith that once meant everything to her. Until a gut-wrenching tragedy brought her to her knees. Now a judge on “Fifteen Minutes,” Chandra feels God calling her to help save someone else from fame’s evil grip.

When Zack takes the stage, it’s obvious to the judges and viewers that his is no ordinary voice. Overnight success ensues, with Zack’s every move getting caught on tape ---  including the overt attentions of Zoey, a beautiful fellow contestant. When the two kiss in an unguarded moment, the cameras capture that as well, leading the producers to create a love story to boost ratings. Through social media and on-camera interviews, changes in Zack become apparent. He is spending more and more time with Zoey, has stopped praying or making faith-based comments, and rarely contacts his loved ones. Back home, Zack’s family is watching his demise with broken hearts. Especially Reese, who can’t believe the guy she loved and trusted could betray God, his family, and her. With no reason to anticipate his return, Reese accepts a job in London, hoping the distance will help mend her shattered heart. 

The more Zack climbs in popularity, the more he privately slides downhill. But he has powerful prayer warriors back home, and another one sitting right in front of him. If they have their way, Zack will win…but not the way he originally intended.

FIFTEEN MINUTES will enchant readers like talent reality shows captivate viewers. New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury artfully portrays Zack’s demise amidst the whirlwind of reality show renown. The plot trots along at a perfect pace, with points of view provided by a variety of likable and distinct characters. I would definitely recommend this book to fellow Christians, who will love the story and relate to the faith and temptations of its characters.

Reviewed by Susan Miura on November 20, 2013

Fifteen Minutes
by Karen Kingsbury

  • Publication Date: October 29, 2013
  • Genres: Christian, Christian Fiction, Fiction
  • Hardcover: 384 pages
  • Publisher: Howard Books
  • ISBN-10: 1451647050
  • ISBN-13: 9781451647051