Cradle of Dreams: A Novel

by Joseph Bentz

For Anyone Who Has Ever Yearned For Something Out of Reach The medication brought on depression, irritability, and insomnia—misery beyond what she had imagined. Yet Laura is willing to endure that and more, if only it will lead to a child. But hope fades with each new phone call—each prognosis another blow to endure. Unwilling to give up until she has seen the last expert on earth, Laura becomes consumed with overcoming her empty arms. But why is it that she seems to struggle alone, while her husband drags his heels at every turn? Isn't this their dream she's fighting to fulfill? Humiliation. For Paul, that word describes the whole unpleasant process. And for what? To achieve a dream no one can guarantee? He and his wife have rewarding careers, common interests and hobbies, nieces and nephews to enjoy. Now all that was good and right and comfortable about their marriage has faded with the realization of this one strike against them. Against him. Paul, feeling he owes his wife something that can never be repaid, simply wants to see Laura smile again. But at what cost?

366 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2001

About the author

Joseph Bentz's books span a variety of genres, including a fantasy novel, three contemporary novels, four non-fiction books on Christian living, and one book/DVD package. Bentz is a frequent speaker at writers conferences, churches, and other venues. He is a professor of English at Azusa Pacific University. He earned a Ph.D. and M.A. in American literature from Purdue University and a B.A. in English from Olivet Nazarene University. He lives with his wife and two children in Southern California. More information on his writing and speaking is available at his website, www.josephbentz.com. His blog, Life of the Mind and Soul, also appears at that site.

Reviews

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting that it was written by a man.

[Diana Townsend · Rating 4 out of 5]

As someone dealing with infertility, I cried after reading this. It's a pretty accurate description of what can happen to a marriage while going through the infertility journey. It was a good quick read, I enjoyed it even though the subject matter made my heart ache. I would say it gives hope... which is rare these days.

[Michelle]

OK but kind of drawn out