Sin No More-Kimberla Lawson Roby

Sin No More
Kimberla Lawson Roby
Morrow, Feb 2008, $23.95
ISBN: 9780060892500

In Mitchell, Illinois, fortyish Reverend Curtis Black has atoned for his adulterous sins; he has asked God and his wife to forgive him for his five year affair with Tabitha. Thirty-one years old Charlotte has agreed to reconcile and give their marriage a chance on the condition that he must never see Tabitha or their infant daughter. He accepts her stipulation.

Outraged by being dumped and the father of her child ignoring his offspring, Tabitha pesters Curtis by threatening to expose him to his flock as an irresponsible sinner and stalks Charlotte. Realizing that the scandal would destroy her spouse and harm their thirteen years old son Matthew, Charlotte decides to confront Tabitha personally. While a nasty cat fight appears imminent, Pastor Tolson is jealous that Reverend Curtis is back at the pulpit as he relished the spotlight while his rival was away; since he knows some of his unethical side dealings and he plans to expose the man of God to the public. Finally David wants full custody of Matthew who he, Charlotte and Curtis believe he sired.

SIN NO MORE continues the travails of Reverend Curtis (see THE BEST KEPT SECRET, CASTING THE FIRST STONE and TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING). The story line is an engaging look at small-town living, backstabbing and religious politics. The story line is character driven as the lead couple has three adversaries wanting to destroy them for different motives. Although too much time is spent on how they got to this point (great for newcomers, but repetitive for long time fans) readers will appreciate the latest devilish goings-on in Illinois.

Harriet Klausner