'Screen Play: A Novel' by Chris Coppernoll - Book Review

I had heard lots of raves about Chris Coppernoll and his latest novel, ‘Screen Play: A Novel.’  So I was excited about the opportunity to read it.

Here is the book trailer for ‘Screen Play: A Novel’:

This book tells the story of Harper Gray, an actress who was selected to be an understudy on Broadway to a very famous actress by the play’s director, who was a former college mate at Northwestern University in Chicago.  In the previous year, she struggled mightily, both personally and professionally, and was introduced to Jesus Christ by a lovely lady named Bella.  I was fascinated by the fact that Chris, a man, wrote this novel in the first person point of view.  As a female myself, I did not detect any incongruities in Chris’s style.  Harper is a lady, through and through!

It was truly miraculous to see how Harper’s life changed when she placed her faith in Jesus.  She continued to lean on Him (and His Holy Spirit) for guidance and direction, and her life became more and more full of His blessings.

A neat element of the story is how the characters, although they lived in New York City, the most populous city in the United States (and highly ranked in the world), they relied on the internet (i.e., online dating services, texting, etc…) to make connections with other people.  The title is a clever play on words for the interplay online and the occupation of the title character.

The storyline in this book was fast-paced and exciting.  I have never visited NYC, but was able to catch the pulse of the city.  And I was thrilled to see how a new believer, as Harper was, so easily and readily shared her faith, particularly in an industry like show business, which often berates and ridicules Christ-followers.

There are many twists and turns in this book.  It is textured and rich, and very realistic, yet at the same times provides a heartwarming story of God’s redemption and care for all of us.  I highly recommend this strong – and sweet – book. 

Chris is the author of several books, including ‘Providence: Once Upon A Second Chance’ and ‘A Beautiful Fall: A Novel.’  I was so charmed by the clever writing and heartfelt message of ‘Screen Play,’ I am eager to catch up on Chris’s previous novels.

In addition to being an author, he is also the founder of Soul2Soul, a syndicated radio program airing on 800 outlets in 20 countries. Chris holds a Masters degree from Rockbridge Seminary and is deeply in love with his wife, novelist Christa Parrish (as stated on his website).  

This book was published by David C. Cook and provided to me by the B & B Media Group, Inc. for review purposes.