Cocksure and clever, young Clayton Ryker enjoys taking life’s dangers head-on. Whether that’s a 1,500lb bovine athlete seeking to throw him from its back or the wiles of bold Brittany, he is determined to keep his seat. Clayton will triumph.

An upsetting accident in the ring shakes his confidence. For the first time, the danger of his own angry heart spurs Clayton to run away. Coming to a halt in Boone, North Carolina, he finds freedom and acceptance in a unique family. But, will he ever gain something more from Ali?

Alinda Coleman makes the best of every moment. She wants to cherish every second with her family, especially Krissy. And she is careful to guard her heart against Clayton Ryker’s charms. But, did God bring the kind and curious bull rider to their family for a reason?

Unexpected adversity falls into both Clayton’s and Alinda’s lives once again. Will trampled dreams result in tenacious faith?

Second Seconds, by Bethany Klassen, is a Christian western fiction with a sprinkling of sweet romance!

The novel is written with simplicity. It’s easy and enjoyable to read for older teens and adults. The pace of this book allows you to soak in each season.

The modern setting amused me a little, as I’m not accustomed to people making posts on Instagram or driving a Camaro in the novels I read. The change-up was good! The setting was thoughtfully put together to incorporate a blend of technology and God’s creation.

From the worldly beginnings to the tranquil lakeside resort, Bethany writes a world that you hear. More than envisioning the arena or lake, the noises set them apart in a special way. And, hopefully, you can also smell the coffee because there is plenty of it!

I appreciated the real and Bible-oriented way Alinda dealt with her feelings. She sought to let God’s Word define her thoughts and emotions, which is a rare and admirable quality in bookish female characters. Kristine is a secondary character who shines a lot of light. She was an excellent ambassador for Christ! Loved her sweet spirit!

Each character in the story brings out something a little different from Clay, rounding him out in unusual puzzle of determination, confusion, buoyancy, longing, humor, honesty, and a growing faith in God.

The plot took a few turns I didn’t expect, but nothing too startling. It felt comfortable to discover where the story went, not imperative, which I liked.

The kingdom-seeking premise was hidden for a while, much as it was to Clayton, but slowly the light came out and beamed. The meaning of the title, Seven Seconds, dawned on me as the redemptive theme threaded a little bit deeper with each chapter.

I’m raising a Hallelu Yah! I praise You, God, that although “all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God…” all can be “justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus!” (Romans 3:23-24) You rescue us from sin and darkness, bringing us into the kingdom of light! And You give us, Father, the ministry of reconciliation that we might shine Your light and help many more be rescued in Jesus’ name! You have made Your salvation known to the ends of the earth, O Lord. Hallelu Yah!

Seven Seconds is a thoughtful, pleasurable read, flavored with God, family, fun, and a twist of romance! I enjoyed reading it – and you probably will, too!