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by Faith Arceneaux (Author)
Gabby Singleton has built her life around loving others-fiercely, selflessly, and at times, recklessly. As a devoted social worker and mighty woman of faith, she's the first to show up for her community... and the last to ask for help. But when one of her teens, Julian, ends up hurt and behind bars, her path keeps crossing with Saint Johnson-the guarded basketball coach with a sharp mind, a compassionate heart, and a past that's made him wary of everything church represents.
Raised in a prominent religious family, Saint knows the doctrines by heart-but what he's seen behind the scenes has left him hollow. He's watched his parents turn good deeds into performances, giving only when there's applause, serving only when it benefits their image. To him, the church is just another stage. But Gabby? She's the real thing. And the more he watches her quietly pour herself into others-without asking for praise-the more his walls begin to shift.
As they walk alongside Julian through his darkest moments, a bond begins to form-unexpected, tender, and full of questions. But can two burdened hearts learn to lean on each other, even as they carry the weight of those they serve? Or will fear and past wounds keep them from discovering a love that heals?
Inspired by Matthew 22:39-"Love thy neighbor as thyself"-Burdened is a heartwarming story of integrity, redemption, and the kind of love that makes room for grace.
