Graceful Reading offers a new way of understanding Bunyan's theology and his narrative art, examining and reassessing the complex and interdependent relationship between them. Michael Davies begins by proposing that Bunyan's theology is far from obsessed with the forbidding Calvinist doctrine of predestination and its corollary tendency towards painful introspection. Bunyan's is, rather, a comfortable doctrine, in which the believer is encouraged to accept salvation through the far more assuring terms of Bunyan's covenant theology - those of faith and grace. The book then reassesses how Bunyan's narrative style is informed by this theology. Works such as Grace Abounding and The Pilgrim's Progress reveal a profound sensitivity to narrative forms and reading practices, as they aim to inculcate in their readers a self-consciousness about reading itself which is instrumental in the very process of spiritual instruction, in seeing 'things unseen'. This is a study, therefore, which asserts a radically different way of reading of Bunyan's writings, both through the terms of seventeenth-century covenant theology, and through some distinctly 'postmodernist' ideas about narrative practice.

Messages and prayers for those facing life-threatening illness, preparing for dying, or meeting other transitions.

She’s an inexperienced sassy sub and he’s an experienced no-nonsense Dom… Perfect for each other, right? Grace is a high school English teacher with one failed marriage in her past. Finding the right man has not happened for her but trying to stay away from the wrong man is harder than it appears. The vice principal, soon to be principal, just won’t take no for an answer. While helping her best friend’s husband plan a surprise birthday party, she meets a man who is unlike anyone she’s met before. They meet online first and Grace is falling for his charm and his dominant personality, when she meets him in person, she knows her life will never be the same. For Toffer Shelley, given his profession, finding the right woman is nearly impossible. People can’t see past his fame, or fortune. When he meets Grace online, he is happily surprised at their connection and common interest in D/s. As a Dom it’s not always easy to find a sub that rocks your world. Grace did that and so much more. Amidst a false complaint at Grace’s job, Toffer flies her to his home a few days before the surprise party so they can explore their feelings. What they discover will change their lives forever. Will the manipulation of Toffer’s vindictive ex or Grace’s vengeful co-worker destroy the magic they’ve found? Publisher’s Note: This adult romance contains elements of adult themes, sensual scenes, betrayal, HEA, and power exchange. If any of these offend you, please do not purchase.

When tough instructor Joanna Carey meets angry and disillusioned Grace Waters, neither is prepared for what comes next. Grace meets her match in Carey, the strong and disciplined woman who's determined to help Grace help herself.