Stolen Blessing - A Novel

Released March 25, 2021

Erick and Addie Comghan have a good life in Boston. When the baby they have longed for is born, the unimaginable happens—Elizabeth goes missing the day after her baptism at St. Francis Parish. Father Tom and Angelo are pulled in to help solve the mystery of her disappearance in a race against time and the complicated dynamics of the relationships involved. Stolen Blessing is the third book in the Father Tom Series and is a story that offers suspense, intrigue, and a journey of love, redemption, and forgiveness..

Endorsements

What a great read!  I loved the plot, I loved the ending. This story speaks to all of us about the depth of the human spirit and our capacity to love and forgive.  Like every human family, our imperfections make us who we are and will help to shape who we ultimately become in the future.  This is a moving story of faith, hope, love, and forgiveness that will resonate with every reader!  Andrea D. Hoisl, Director of Office of Faith Events, Diocese of Norwich

 Stolen Blessings kept me guessing - who did it? why? how? But beyond the mystery, it offers a prescription for the familial wounds that threaten to steal the peace we all crave. Carolyn Astfalk, Award-winning Contemporary Catholic fiction author of All in Good Time

 Jim Sano’s Stolen Blessing provides more than just an entertaining whodunnit with endearing characters. His story gives us rich layers of humanness, moral failings, grace, and a few subtle messages that are there for us —if we are paying attention.   Margot Hill, Deputy Superintendent, Ret. Boston Police Department

 Stolen Blessing is a wonderfully written mystery and the third story of the excellent Father Tom series. The characters will draw you in and keep you hooked throughout this deeply moving story and make you stop to think about life. Father Tom is an amazing character, and I hope we get books featuring him for years to come. Steven R. McEvoy, Book Reviews and More

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Reviews

Reader’s Favorite Review and Awards

How far would a hurt person go to exact revenge? As high school students, identical twins Jack and Erick loved each other so much. They were stellar students and basketball stars, but Erick was the stronger one and got a harder push while Jack got all the pampering. Things changed after the state championship when something happened between the duo and their father, Coach Zak. Erick married Addie, the girl his brother loved, while her sister, Rachel, loved Jack but couldn’t get his attention. Eric and Addie finally had a baby after many years of trying. However, tragedy struck a day after the new baby’s baptism. Someone kidnapped her and everybody in the love triangle had motives. Who took baby Elizabeth? Read Stolen Blessing by Jim Sano for the details.

Stolen Blessing by Jim Sano was a novel that had me waiting to exhale. It had me hooked from the first page until the very end. If you love mystery, suspense, and detective stories, this book will appeal to you. However, prepare to be shocked because things are never as they seem. I enjoyed reading this novel and the flawless editing enhanced my pleasurable experience. The unpredictable storyline, brilliant plot, and dialogue were superb. I also give extra points for the character development because the core characters were class acts. Our dear Father Tom, Angelo, and Detective Brooks had me laughing a lot. Sibling rivalry is a thing, but when fueled by the parents, it could brew disastrous consequences. Also, the importance of honest communication cannot be over-emphasized. When in doubt, ask questions with an open mind. I was baffled at the way a person’s mind worked, but the end was satisfactory. Please, write more, Jim! ☆☆☆☆☆

Jennifer Ibiam for Reader’s Favorite

This is the third story I have read by Jim Sano. All three are from the Father Tom Series, Father Tom Fitzpatrick, the first titled The Father's Son and the second Gus Busbi. It is another excellent read, with each new book I read from Jim’s pen the more impressed I am. I was very excited to read this new story. Father Tom is an amazing character, and I hope we get books featuring him for years to come. I had heard great things about Jim’s first book and held off reading it. For fear that it would not live up to the hype. But Now I read them as soon as I can get my hands on them. The Father Tom stories are very well written. They have excellent characters; they draw you in and keep you hooked. The writing is wonderful. With each book the series gets better!

 The Father Tom stories are contemporary fiction. They are realistic fiction. They are set in our world, in our time, and with our issues and struggles. In this story we have a few main characters. And Father Tom is an influence on most of them. But this one has a mystery, and Father Tom inserts himself in the investigation and in the family involved to get to the truth. In some ways it feels like a Blackie Ryan mystery from Father Andrew M. Greely. And there is a lot of mystery in this story. A robbery, a missing baby, an estranged family, and much more.

 The story revolves around family conflict, and deep wounds. It highlights how we can make terrible decisions out of pain and hurt. It also offers hope,, a hope born of finding the truth, speaking the truth, and learning to trust and be vulnerable again. The story starts with a basketball championship in Woodhaven Queens, NY in 1993. Two brothers on the court. Erick and Jack. And one receives all the praise, and the other is slighted and hurt. Like other books in the series, it is written around decisions we make, and the consequences of those actions.

 After that chapter the story jumps to the Boston South End in 2006 and a baptism at Father Tim Fitzpatrick’s church. The baby being baptised is the child of Erick and Addie and their baby Elizabeth. Erick’s brother Jack, back from 6 years abroad is the Godfather. And the GodMother is Rachel, Addie’s younger sister. Then the day after the baptism Erick is found unconscious and the baby is missing. This one is more along the lines of a whodunit mystery. But with a lot of hurts, misinterpretation of actions and intent, misguided reactions. I do not know how anyone could read this story and not think of their own family, friends, and coworkers. It deals with some very serious matters, and ones that affect a lot of people today. The story is deeply moving. It is a story that will make you think. You will find yourself reflecting on your own life, area’s you need to work on, area’s you need to improve. And maybe even some old things you need to let go.

 I admit I figured it out about halfway through. But I had not figured all the pieces out. Another excellent read in a wonderful series. But to figure out how Father Tom and Angelo figure out the complicated relationships and the clues that do not line up, you will need to read this story. This story is not fluff just to pass the time. It is a book that will make you think. It is well worth it! A third read in what I hope will be a long series.  Father Tom is now among my favorite fictional clergy of all time. ☆☆☆☆☆

 Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2021 Catholic Reading Plan! 

Steven R. McEvoy, Book Reviews and More

A Gem: Should be 2021’s Best Selling Novel: In his third book “Stolen Blessings,” Jim Sano tells a compelling tale of suspense and engaging intrigue. In his portrayal of an ordinary, contemporary family, Sano unfolds the effects of deeply inflicted wounds, masterfully exposing the etiology of their debilitating pain. Most remarkably, this exquisite treatment of parental affirmation, provides keys to conquering fear and demonstrates the beauty of family, fatherhood, spousal and fraternal trust. This third gem clearly confirms Sano, not only as an incredibly entertaining, insightful, consummate writer but also as a very important voice for our times; I impatiently await news of his forthcoming work. ☆☆☆☆☆

Marty Muratroe

What a great read!  I loved the plot, I loved the ending. This story speaks to all of us about the depth of the human spirit and our capacity to love and forgive.  Like every human family, our imperfections make us who we are and will help to shape who we ultimately become in the future.  This is a moving story of faith, hope, love, and forgiveness that will resonate with every reader!  ☆☆☆☆☆

Andrea D. Hoisl, Director of Office of Faith Events, Diocese of Norwich

SILVER WINNER OF THE ICBA Awards!

Couldn’t put it down. This is the third book in the Father Tom Series.

A baptism. A kidnapping.  Twin brothers who love the same woman.  Only one was married to her.  

After the baptism of Elizabeth, Erick, the father of the baby was knocked out, and Elizabeth went missing.  

Where is Elizabeth?  Is she o.k.?  What was the motive, and who was involved? 

Fr. Tom helps investigate the many clues.  The reader will never guess the ending of this book.

Stolen Blessing is an adventure that follows clues, and contains so many twists and turns, it makes it difficult to put the book down.  

Trust, faith, and forgiveness are takeaways, as well as many other valuable lessons.  

Things are not always what they appear to be. ☆☆☆☆☆

  STAFF PICK and Recommended by the ICBA Panel of Judges! 

Another great read: Stolen Blessing is another great book in the Father Tom series. When presented with the mystery of a missing infant, Father Tom is drawn into the search, but this story goes far deeper than the kidnapping. The tension over the kidnapped infant strains relationships and opens old wounds. The raw emotions explored in the story will keep you riveted as you piece together what happened. ☆☆☆☆☆

Michelle Buckman, Award Winning Author

Jim Sano has delivered again! What a fantastic story! The characters are so life-like and accessible. The story moves quickly and holds the reader in suspense throughout. I will not spoil the ending for anyone but it was mesmerizing. Simply put, this is a wonderful story. I highly recommend it. I have read all three of the books in this series and each one is better than the one before. I have only one complaint - that I have to wait to read another. ☆☆☆☆☆

Daniel R.

This book has everything! I can’t get enough of Jim Sano’s books. This is his third in the Father Tom series, and it was as enjoyable and riveting as the others. It’s got everything: sibling rivalry, kidnapping, alleged affairs, cancer, unsolved crimes. The more I read his books, the more deeply I love my faith and learn how to make the most of my relationships — the good, the bad, and the ugly. We all have struggles, but trusting in God and listening to him is always our best bet. Just ask Father Tom ;-) ☆☆☆☆☆

Mrs. Mac

Fantastic: To me … the best of the Father Tom series. The characters are so well developed and so are their relationships. Each of Mr Sano’s books will draw you in and, in my case, see a little bit of yourself in one or more characters. Who could ask for anything more! ☆☆☆☆☆

Scott Phillips

Great mystery in the style of Father Brown and Grantchester. Compelling characters with real-life problems and struggles. The spiritual thread was well-drawn and not at all preachy. I'll be watching for more in this series! ☆☆☆☆☆

Stephanie Landsem

Fr. Tom’s Grand Sendoff: I've now thoroughly enjoyed all 3 adventures in the Father Tom book series and highly encourage my fellow readers to take the time to read all 3 books in this series. I've learned so much about my faith, and these books have also helped to remind me that my focus should be on my relationships with others, and not the craziness that is going on in today's world.

Thank you, Jim Sano, for writing such a wonderful, thought-provoking series of books.☆☆☆☆☆

Michael Ferreira

A hat trick for author Jim Sano: This is the third novel by author Jim Sano, and once again he does not disappoint! This novel is a mystery, and it certainly has you guessing until the very end in this "who-done-it"! If you haven't treated yourself to one of Jim's books with Fr. Tom, you're missing out. His easy writing style keeps you wanting to read more and more...truly a page turner! I recommend this to anyone who has a sense of humor as there are several times you'll find yourself smiling throughout. Thanks Jim, and keep the books coming! ☆☆☆☆☆

Tanya Thompson

Blend of family, faith and mystery: I love Jim Sano's writing style. "Stolen Blessings" is the third book in his 'Father Tom' series. Each book gives a fast-paced and enjoyable story. Blended within the storytelling, the reader is treated to words of faith for everyday living–as presented by the main character, Father Tom. It is obvious that the author has a deep faith and knows how to share it with his use of words.

"Stolen Blessings" is a mystery about kidnapping, suspicion, deep-seated hurt, and forgiveness. Father Tom and his friend, Angelo, bump heads with the detective on the case, Brooks, as they try their hand at being amateur detectives. I made a few incorrect guesses on how the story would end. – It keeps you guessing.

If you like a good, Christian mystery (like I do), you'll enjoy this story! ☆☆☆☆☆

Joan L. Kelly

I really enjoyed this third book in the Father Tom series. All three of these books have been books that I would recommend.

Stolen Blessing is a mystery that kept me wondering how it would end. It is a fast moving book that is entertaining and kept me guessing. Father Tom is a likable, unifying factor, and a priest we all would like to know in real life.

I am hoping there will be a fourth book in this series before long. I will certainly buy it as soon as it becomes available. ☆☆☆☆☆

Judy Riggs

Suspenseful and heartwarming at the same time: This book was well written, keeping the reader engaged, appreciating the characters and the shifting supposed solutions. Great read to break up heavy non-fiction I tend to, usually. ☆☆☆☆☆

N. Avery

A very enjoyable read. In his third novel in the Fr. Tom series, Jim Sano once again gives us a compelling story that may hint at parallels in our own lives. I think all of us can relate to certain moments in our childhood, especially those formative teen years, when something a loved one did or didn’t do hurt us deeply. Erick’s and Jack’s struggles with resentment, suspicions, and forgiveness lead us to examine relationships and events in our own lives. Reading this novel I was so eager to find out “what happens next” in solving the kidnapping mystery, but also how will these two brothers get past their pain. I highly recommend this book - it’s a very enjoyable read. ☆☆☆☆☆

Cathy Parsloe

A mystery of hope. I thoroughly enjoyed all the twists and turns in this story and emphasis on how childhood wounds can fester and destroy us but we have a God who wants to showers us with forgiveness and restoration if we have not let him It’s a mystery that kept me turning pages and guessing I have and would recommend it to anyone. ☆☆☆☆☆

Jeremy

A suspenseful novel: What a riveting novel by Jim! Just when you think one thing or one scenario it takes a complete 180. A story of deception, forgiving (even in the worst of times), as well as telling the truth even when it’s the hardest thing to do. Love conquers all! ☆☆☆☆☆

Amazon Customer

I really enjoyed this book!
I felt immersed in Boston’s South End, visualizing the brick buildings, narrow streets and interesting restaurants as the mystery weaved itself around the action and interesting but flawed characters. As I read I suspected each character in stealing the “blessing” until the end when I was totally wrong! ☆☆☆☆☆

Maura M

Great read for mystery buffs: This mystery keeps one on their toes. The 3rd of the Fr. Tom series now places him in a baffling mystery as an amateur detective. We are once again set in Boston where a child has just been abducted only hours after her baptism and left with certain clues that leave one puzzled. I most enjoyed this tale as it dives deep into family problems and sibling relationships all the while we are taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions . We play detective through the eyes of Fr. Tom as he finds himself in the middle of such an heinous crime. Very enjoyable read.

Boston Wayne

If this book is a reflection on the others in the series, I would recommend it. Jim Sano's gift and talent of writing is clearly shown in this book. The reader is easily drawn to the unforgetable characters which in turn inspires the reader to ponder how he/she would act or react in similar situations. ☆☆☆☆☆

Lynn S

Another great story: I love this book, I didn’t want to stop reading it was suspenseful and enlightening. What’s the next one Jim? ☆☆☆☆☆

Cindy P.

A page-turner! Another great book from Jim Sano. It is a well written page turner with many twists. It really held my attention! And as with all of Mr Sano’s books - a good story! ☆☆☆☆☆

Amazon Customer

"Self Portrait" is such a beautiful story! Love it! Behind a good man is a strong, loving, faithful woman, and Mary is exactly that for Billy. It is fast-paced mystery that kept me engaged, wondering, and wanting to know what happens next. Well-done, Jim Sano! ☆☆☆☆☆

Deacon Phúc Phan