Author: Erin Bartels
Publisher: Revell
Genre: Fiction, Contemporary
Source: Revell
My Review:
I have enjoyed Erin Bartels previous works. When I saw she had a new book coming out, I immediately requested it. However, this book should come with a trigger warning, especially for sensitive readers. This is a very heavy book dealing with sexual abuse.
If you can get past that it is an incredibly well-written story, which is what I have come to expect from Bartels. This is a very complex, multi-layered story, dealing with weighty issues. It is poignant, tragic, at times depressing, and very deep. It is very realistic and honest in the approach it is written. While it is published by a Christian publisher, I would not label it a Christian book. Even at the end, I felt there were a few things not quite resolved.
Thank you to Revell for the opportunity to read this book. I was not required to provide a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
★★★/5
Synopsis (from Goodreads):
When Kendra Brennan
moves into her grandfather's old cabin on Hidden Lake, she has a problem
and a plan. The problem? An inflammatory letter from A Very
Disappointed Reader that's keeping her from writing her next novel as
long as its claims go unanswered. The plan? To confront Tyler, her
childhood best friend's brother--and the man who inspired the antagonist
in her first book--in order to prove to herself that she told the truth
as all good novelists should.
What she discovers as she delves
into the murky past is not what she expected. Facing Tyler isn't easy,
but facing the truth of her failed friendship with his sister, Cami, may
be the hardest thing she's ever had to do.
Award-winning
novelist Erin Bartels searches the heart with this lyrical exploration
of how a friendship dies, how we can face the unforgiveable, and how
even those who have been hurt can learn to love with abandon.
I have to be in the right place emotionally to tackle a book with weighty issues like this one. But Erin Bartels sounds like an author I need to try. :)
ReplyDeleteLark, yes! I would start with The Words Between Us. I really enjoyed it.
DeleteI looked it up on Goodreads and it does sound really good! Thanks for the rec. :D
DeleteLark, anytime :) Have a great day!
DeleteThis author is new to me but I will be on the lookout for her work.
ReplyDeleteSarah, I enjoy her books they are so good!
DeleteI like emotional books! But, I think this might be too emotional for me.
ReplyDeleteWendy, it was hard at times for sure.
DeleteOh, wow. I'm glad to have read your review. I didn't realize this one was so weighty.
ReplyDeleteJennifer, I really feel like it should be made known because when you read the cover it doesn't sound that way. The only clue is the author's note at the end of the story. That's not good enough.
Delete