Review of How Promise Falls

Ivana Tomaš · Post by **Ivana Tomaš** » 20 May 2025, 03:19

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "How Promise Falls" by Stone Carter.]

4 out of 5 stars

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How Promise Falls by Stone Carter is a book about Bobby Ridell's life and his conversion to Christianity. The book is primarily based on righteousness and the significance of kindness, along with all the other Christian virtues. Since Christianity is essentially based on the tribulations of life and the acceptance of the cross, this story follows the same principle.

Bobby Ridell is a young boy who has shown exceptional kindness and empathy to everyone since the beginning of his life. He has always faced difficulties and challenges in life, comparing them to mountains that he had to conquer. Of his hobbies, the book most of all showcases his love for basketball and his complete dedication to it. His future in that field was bright. However, life suddenly took him on a different path. He had to encounter bad people and a world of drugs, lies and deceit. He was falsely accused, for which he spent some time in prison, but also gained something valuable that would guide him throughout his life.

First of all, this book is a real little treasure in the field of Christian inspirational stories. Bobby Ridell represents a true principled hero who faces the horrors of life and, despite his innocence and purity, at one point becomes morally defeated. However, I appreciate his worldview and his general optimism. Also, I like the realistic way the world is portrayed. Bobby grew up in a neighbourhood full of drugs and crime, but he managed to stay exemplary, primarily because of his family. He had very well-arranged priorities. Life took him on an incredibly difficult course, but with faith and Jesus Christ, whom he later met with the help of many other people who stood by him, Bobby managed to overcome all of his life's adversities. Christianity is wonderfully described and demonstrated in the book through the example of Bobby and his hardships. There are many references to Bible verses and Bible stories, which thrilled me because I am a Christian myself.

As for some of the negative aspects of the book, there aren't many. However, in some situations, religion and faith in Jesus Christ seemed unconvincing and unrealistic. There were some instances where belief and connection to Jesus were explained, but in a slightly stretched way, like the situation with Corin. Those descriptions felt a bit pushed and didn't fit the story nicely. I also encountered some errors that I think could have been avoided.

I give this book 3 out of 4 stars. It is very engaging, educational and inspiring. I believe it can help many people fight their demons, especially if they are Christians. The main reason for the slightly lower rating is the way religion is incorporated into the story itself. Sometimes the discussion of religion seemed like a text from a textbook.

I would recommend the book to anyone who wants to try Christianity, but also to all Christians who want to experience their faith more deeply and see how a genuine relationship with Jesus Christ can help everyone, regardless of their situation.

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How Promise Falls
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André Ribeiro Moes · Post by **André Ribeiro Moes** » 28 May 2025, 16:10

I’m happy to read your review of the book. As a Christian, I appreciate the fact that the book tells the life story of a person, but from a perspective of faith and kindness.
The main character and his traits were very well described, which made me connect with him in a certain way and admire him for his faith and righteousness throughout his life, especially with all the raw and harsh reality portrayed in the story.

Post by **Ami Sanghavi** » 29 May 2025, 05:12

I really enjoyed reading your reflections on this book. It’s clear how deeply the story and its message resonated with you. I appreciate your honest take on both the strengths and where the religious themes felt a bit overdone. Your review makes me curious to read it, especially to see how Bobby’s journey of faith unfolds through such intense life challenges.

Post by **Kibet Hillary** » 29 May 2025, 08:34

The story sounds really enthralling, but I like most is the fact that there are references to Bible verses and stories. I believe the Bible is a key pillar in anyone's journey as a Christian, and it is wonderful to see the same reflected in the book. Thanks for the informative review, @Ivana Tomaš.

Jenna audrey · Post by **Jenna audrey** » 03 Jun 2025, 07:49

i really enjoyed reading your reflections on this book. It’s clear how deeply the story and its message resonated with you. I appreciate your honest take on both the strengths and where the religious themes felt a bit overdone. Your review makes me curious to read it, especially to see how Bobby’s journey of faith unfolds through such intense life challenges.