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Grace Revealed #1
Blue Columbine
Best friends—maybe more—until addiction shatters everything.
Reeling from professional failure, Andrew Harris needs a fresh start. When he moves back to Colorado to join a Denver law firm, he runs into Jamie, his childhood sweetheart. She is still the kind and faithful girl he remembers—not to mention beautiful and still single. With her by his side, Andrew is confident he can overcome the demons that he tries to keep hidden.
Jamie Carson is thrown off balance when Andy resurfaces in her life. Though her faith in God has remained solid, even through her mother’s long illness and after her death, Jamie battles loneliness. Andy fills her days, whispering significance to her heart. But his rejection of the faith she thought they’d once shared, and his alarming drinking habit keep her heart from plunging into deep, murky waters. Or do they?
Andy pursues an intimacy Jamie knows she must guard against. But as the line between loyalty and love blurs, things get complicated—until a devastating blow breaks their relationship. For Jamie, one thing becomes clear: Andy needs a miracle, and she isn’t it.
Will Andrew allow the hand of grace to redeem his legacy of addiction, or will he and Jamie both remain casualties of heartbreak?
This Christian Fiction Book dives into first love and second chances, romance and redemption.
Reeling from professional failure, Andrew Harris needs a fresh start. When he moves back to Colorado to join a Denver law firm, he runs into Jamie, his childhood sweetheart. She is still the kind and faithful girl he remembers—not to mention beautiful and still single. With her by his side, Andrew is confident he can overcome the demons that he tries to keep hidden.
Jamie Carson is thrown off balance when Andy resurfaces in her life. Though her faith in God has remained solid, even through her mother’s long illness and after her death, Jamie battles loneliness. Andy fills her days, whispering significance to her heart. But his rejection of the faith she thought they’d once shared, and his alarming drinking habit keep her heart from plunging into deep, murky waters. Or do they?
Andy pursues an intimacy Jamie knows she must guard against. But as the line between loyalty and love blurs, things get complicated—until a devastating blow breaks their relationship. For Jamie, one thing becomes clear: Andy needs a miracle, and she isn’t it.
Will Andrew allow the hand of grace to redeem his legacy of addiction, or will he and Jamie both remain casualties of heartbreak?
This Christian Fiction Book dives into first love and second chances, romance and redemption.
345 pages, ebook
First published May 19, 2015
911 people are currently reading
604 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Rodewald
41 books415 followersJennifer Rodewald is passionate about the Word of God and the powerful vehicle of story. Four kids and her own personal superman make her home in southwestern Nebraska delightfully chaotic.
Born in Colorado, she experienced both the seclusion of rugged mountain living and the busy streets of a Denver suburb during her growing up years. Somewhere in the middle of college, she married a Husker and found her way back to the quiet lifestyle of a rural area, which suits just fine.
Blessed with a robust curiosity, Jen loves to research. Whether she’s investigating the history of a given area, the biography of a Christian icon, or how nature declares the glory of God, her daily goal is to learn something new. Aiming to live with boundless enthusiasm, her creed is vision, pursuit, and excellence.
Jen lives and writes in a lovely speck of a town where she watches with amazement while her children grow up way too fast, gardens, and marvels at God’s mighty hand in everyday life.
Born in Colorado, she experienced both the seclusion of rugged mountain living and the busy streets of a Denver suburb during her growing up years. Somewhere in the middle of college, she married a Husker and found her way back to the quiet lifestyle of a rural area, which suits just fine.
Blessed with a robust curiosity, Jen loves to research. Whether she’s investigating the history of a given area, the biography of a Christian icon, or how nature declares the glory of God, her daily goal is to learn something new. Aiming to live with boundless enthusiasm, her creed is vision, pursuit, and excellence.
Jen lives and writes in a lovely speck of a town where she watches with amazement while her children grow up way too fast, gardens, and marvels at God’s mighty hand in everyday life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
March 6, 2019
Wow, the first half of this book had a powerful punch. The relationship between Jamie and Andy is intense. The best friend angle also the "forbidden love" angle. Their relationship hits reality hard especially for a Christian girl. I was happy that Jamie was able to stay true to her convictions up until the very end. It was refreshing. This isn't a popular subject in mainstream but I am so thankful talented writers are out there and are willing to put the hard truths in their stories. There is a lot of depth in this novel. Thought-provoking and yet tender moments that took my breath away. I did not want to put this down, I just kept reading dying to see how it would unfold. By no means does it have a fairy tale ending but the grace of God and His goodness is so amazing I had to stop reading and Praise Him! Our God is mighty to save, gracious, loving, He gives so many chances to come back into His loving arms even after we have mocked Him and lived utterly opposed to His Will. Oh, I am so very thankful! (Back to the book) There is a very happy, satisfying ending. I felt like the story climaxed early and was trying to figure out why there were so many pages left. Just hold on. Keep reading. You will be glad you did. This is the first book I have read by Jennifer Rodewald. Believe me, I want to go get ALL of her books now. And I will (just may take a little time;)
February 6, 2017
Y’all.
This book had me ugly-crying, trying to muffle my sobs into my pillow so I wouldn’t wake up my husband.
It is a story of addiction and its impact on those we love, but even more than that it is a story of enduring friendship, love, grace, and the most beautiful redemption.
Andrew and Jamie were childhood best friends/sweethearts, and that tender affection & chemistry between them fuels deep emotional reactions in the reader throughout the novel. Because Andrew is no longer the Andy that Jamie knew growing up. He’s in there, to be sure, but addiction has obscured the view of the boy who brought Jamie blue columbine once upon a time.
This is not a simple story where all is well within a couple of chapters and the mere power of her love saves him from his vices. He tries that, in fact. Longs for it even. But no… this is raw and real and heartbreaking. In all the best ways that take a book from great to riveting. This is a book that reaches inside your heart, rips it out, and then renews it with the soul-cleansing life-changing miracle of grace.
“…celebrate and rejoice, for this brother of yours was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.” (Luke 15:32)
Bottom Line: Warning: Reading Blue Columbine by Jennifer Rodewald will cause the ugly cry. But oh please don’t let that stop you from diving in to this beautifully written novel! Andy and Jamie completely capture your loyalty; from their childhood friendship to their current relationship, you will be captivated by their story. The honest look at Andy’s struggles with addictions and Jamie’s battle to know when – and how – to let go is heartbreaking, yet at the same time the power of God to redeem a life from the pit is tenderly displayed and authentically revealed. I cannot recommend this book highly enough if you’re looking for a story that you will feel all the way down to your soul.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)
See my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
This book had me ugly-crying, trying to muffle my sobs into my pillow so I wouldn’t wake up my husband.
It is a story of addiction and its impact on those we love, but even more than that it is a story of enduring friendship, love, grace, and the most beautiful redemption.
Andrew and Jamie were childhood best friends/sweethearts, and that tender affection & chemistry between them fuels deep emotional reactions in the reader throughout the novel. Because Andrew is no longer the Andy that Jamie knew growing up. He’s in there, to be sure, but addiction has obscured the view of the boy who brought Jamie blue columbine once upon a time.
This is not a simple story where all is well within a couple of chapters and the mere power of her love saves him from his vices. He tries that, in fact. Longs for it even. But no… this is raw and real and heartbreaking. In all the best ways that take a book from great to riveting. This is a book that reaches inside your heart, rips it out, and then renews it with the soul-cleansing life-changing miracle of grace.
“…celebrate and rejoice, for this brother of yours was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.” (Luke 15:32)
Bottom Line: Warning: Reading Blue Columbine by Jennifer Rodewald will cause the ugly cry. But oh please don’t let that stop you from diving in to this beautifully written novel! Andy and Jamie completely capture your loyalty; from their childhood friendship to their current relationship, you will be captivated by their story. The honest look at Andy’s struggles with addictions and Jamie’s battle to know when – and how – to let go is heartbreaking, yet at the same time the power of God to redeem a life from the pit is tenderly displayed and authentically revealed. I cannot recommend this book highly enough if you’re looking for a story that you will feel all the way down to your soul.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)
See my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
January 25, 2018
This debut is an emotional journey about a man in a denial that he is an alcoholic and his childhood best friend that still sees the person he used to be.
The writing is good and kept me engaged. I look forward to continuing this series and reading other novels by this talented author.
The writing is good and kept me engaged. I look forward to continuing this series and reading other novels by this talented author.
March 18, 2018
Raw emotions, relatable characters, and an arc of transformation and redemption like none I've ever read. This is a must-read both encouraging in my personal faith walk and eye-opening in its message of grace.
May 29, 2018
What a pleasure to read a novel with a purpose. I lean toward serious fiction and this story about alcoholism, recovery and faith fits the bill perfectly. Andy and Jamie are at the heart of the story, but what makes the book unique are the secondary characters who help to point the way to salvation and Andy's eventual recovery. Jamie's recovery too. She has her own set of flaws to face.
I finished this book right after a series at church on friendship and how dangerous it is for us to walk completely alone. Friends keep us centered. This book shows that perfectly.
Recommended for anyone with a friend or family member coping with addiction, or for that friend.
I finished this book right after a series at church on friendship and how dangerous it is for us to walk completely alone. Friends keep us centered. This book shows that perfectly.
Recommended for anyone with a friend or family member coping with addiction, or for that friend.
September 3, 2016
Jennifer Rodewald is a masterful storyteller. Y'all this is the 2nd book of hers that I've read that has reduced me to tears. Blue Columbine is a wonderful story of grace and mercy that God blesses the sinner with. This novel deals with alcoholism and the damage it causes, but more importantly it showcases the change God can bring. Intertwine the romance and friendship between Andy and Jamie and you have a must read.
July 3, 2016
"A familiar stranger".
Jamie Carson can scarcely believe her eyes when childhood hero and best friend, Andrew Harris, steps in to view on her family property. Still the same, and yet different, years lost between them, childhood promises eventually fading into deep loneliness. Unknown to Jamie, beneath Andy's handsome face, successful career, and friendly overtures lurks a formidable opponent to a renewed relationship; addiction. "There are places in the heart, man cannot touch".
Andrew Harris knows that he has made mistakes. Coming home to Denver, Colorado represents a fresh start; he can hardly believe that sweet Jamie Carson is going to be part of his life again, surely she can help him become a better man. It might just work, until it doesn't.
"Blue Columbine" is an intensely beautiful story, gripping the mind and heart of the reader to the point of breaking, for both Jamie and Andy, willing God to show up with His power and might; He certainly can. But will it be too late?
Jamie Carson can scarcely believe her eyes when childhood hero and best friend, Andrew Harris, steps in to view on her family property. Still the same, and yet different, years lost between them, childhood promises eventually fading into deep loneliness. Unknown to Jamie, beneath Andy's handsome face, successful career, and friendly overtures lurks a formidable opponent to a renewed relationship; addiction. "There are places in the heart, man cannot touch".
Andrew Harris knows that he has made mistakes. Coming home to Denver, Colorado represents a fresh start; he can hardly believe that sweet Jamie Carson is going to be part of his life again, surely she can help him become a better man. It might just work, until it doesn't.
"Blue Columbine" is an intensely beautiful story, gripping the mind and heart of the reader to the point of breaking, for both Jamie and Andy, willing God to show up with His power and might; He certainly can. But will it be too late?
July 27, 2015
This is such a poignant and transformational book. Jennifer Rodewald deals with hard issues in her debut novel, and does it with beautiful writing and memorable characters. I identified with the characters in Blue Columbine because, like Andy, my brother also has a problem with alcohol as well as drugs. Like Jaime, those around him are often hurt by his poor choices and the effects of altering substances. Jennifer Rodewald reminded me that God deals in life-changing redemption when we give our lives over to His hands. Even in all the mess of life, there is hope.
October 22, 2015
Good book
This book was so good, l don't think l read a romance book where the hero is first a jerk. But then with the grace of God, he is a saved man!! But the reason l give this book 4 stars is that towards the end, the book takes a different direction. Which made the book drag,just a little. Oh, do plan to read her next book. But the Christian part of the book is A+, which l love, some books called themselves Christian...but really isn't. The love this author has for Christ comes through. Good book!!!
This book was so good, l don't think l read a romance book where the hero is first a jerk. But then with the grace of God, he is a saved man!! But the reason l give this book 4 stars is that towards the end, the book takes a different direction. Which made the book drag,just a little. Oh, do plan to read her next book. But the Christian part of the book is A+, which l love, some books called themselves Christian...but really isn't. The love this author has for Christ comes through. Good book!!!
April 30, 2018
I read this on #KindleUnlimited
November 11, 2022
I really loved Jamie, our MC. She is strong-willed, God-fearing, and loves those around her. She loves the outdoors without being your typical tomboy.
I could not stand Andrew. He was a narcissistic, alcoholic, womanizing, abusive, jerk. I appreciate his *spoiler alert* redemption arc, but Jamie was so, so much better than him.
Yet, Jamie also irritated me at points. Like when Andrew goes through his redemption, she lets his past define him and confuses him and his feelings by pushing him away when he needs her the most. She is very yo-yo with her feelings, and while I appreciate that she doesn't just run back to him after he throws himself at her while drunk, even once he returns to his faith, she doesn't listen to the people around her.
Overall, the writing was well-done, but we are missing the pain and anguish of what Andrew went through while learning how to have faith again, how to live without drowning in alcohol. I wanted that visceral feeling of what he would have been through, and then I may have been able to feel a bit more empathy for him.
I could not stand Andrew. He was a narcissistic, alcoholic, womanizing, abusive, jerk. I appreciate his *spoiler alert* redemption arc, but Jamie was so, so much better than him.
Yet, Jamie also irritated me at points. Like when Andrew goes through his redemption, she lets his past define him and confuses him and his feelings by pushing him away when he needs her the most. She is very yo-yo with her feelings, and while I appreciate that she doesn't just run back to him after he throws himself at her while drunk, even once he returns to his faith, she doesn't listen to the people around her.
Overall, the writing was well-done, but we are missing the pain and anguish of what Andrew went through while learning how to have faith again, how to live without drowning in alcohol. I wanted that visceral feeling of what he would have been through, and then I may have been able to feel a bit more empathy for him.
April 25, 2018
full series review on Faithfully Bookish
The road to redemption in this story is not an easy one but a journey well worth taking. Blue Columbine provides readers with a raw and in-depth look at the physical, emotional, and mental toll alcoholism takes on lives. Understanding the beast of addiction is a valuable step towards compassion for those caught in its snare. I highly recommend this story!
I purchased this title. The opinions expressed are my own.
The road to redemption in this story is not an easy one but a journey well worth taking. Blue Columbine provides readers with a raw and in-depth look at the physical, emotional, and mental toll alcoholism takes on lives. Understanding the beast of addiction is a valuable step towards compassion for those caught in its snare. I highly recommend this story!
I purchased this title. The opinions expressed are my own.
August 9, 2015
Sweet Story
A solid plot with good themes and deep, believable characters. Quite a bit of tension though the story did drag a bit at times. All in all an enjoyable read.
A solid plot with good themes and deep, believable characters. Quite a bit of tension though the story did drag a bit at times. All in all an enjoyable read.
November 5, 2019
A great story of the redemption found in Christ and Christ alone! The story does not shy away from the depths that our sin will take us as well as the serious consequences it can inflict, but it also shows the miracle of a changed life once one surrenders one's self to God and allows Him to redeem them from the power of sin.
October 14, 2020
Hurts , Fears and Forgiveness
This was a story raw with emotion. Intricately woven together with scripture, it offered the perfect balance of story and romance. It was a bit too long and could have ended sooner, leaving quite enough material for a second book in a series.
This was a story raw with emotion. Intricately woven together with scripture, it offered the perfect balance of story and romance. It was a bit too long and could have ended sooner, leaving quite enough material for a second book in a series.
December 22, 2023
If you are a fan of redemption stories, this book should be on your to-read list.
With addiction and its effect on the person and their relationships as the main subject, this was not an easy read. But throughout the story there was an underling thread of hope, and the faith element was strong.
I loved how the writer was able to clearly show the impact of addiction and a life far away from God on Andy’s life and then the total 180degree difference when he finally realized that he can not change for a person, but true change comes from God and then see the evidence in his life.
I loved how Jamie stayed strong throughout this story in her faith and relationship with God and made difficult choices when God led her that way.
This was my first story read by this author and I enjoyed her captivating writing and look forward to more from her.
With addiction and its effect on the person and their relationships as the main subject, this was not an easy read. But throughout the story there was an underling thread of hope, and the faith element was strong.
I loved how the writer was able to clearly show the impact of addiction and a life far away from God on Andy’s life and then the total 180degree difference when he finally realized that he can not change for a person, but true change comes from God and then see the evidence in his life.
I loved how Jamie stayed strong throughout this story in her faith and relationship with God and made difficult choices when God led her that way.
This was my first story read by this author and I enjoyed her captivating writing and look forward to more from her.
June 22, 2016
First of all, I really liked this book.
I loved the fact that I could really relate with Jamie. I could feel her heartaches, her fear, her sadness... The author was really able to capture how ugly alcoholism can be, but also its effect on alcoholic's friends. Andrew is also a great character because he really shows that things can get better. It's not easy, but it's possible.
I loved how, throughout the book, we can actually see Andrew and Jamie at different stage of their relationship. Seeing them evolve toward something better was great.
The only downside for me was that it took place on a very long period of time. I don't like that much because it means some parts are "fast-forwarded". But other than that it was still a very great book.
I highly recommend it!
Thanks to the author for providing me with a copy of the book.
I loved the fact that I could really relate with Jamie. I could feel her heartaches, her fear, her sadness... The author was really able to capture how ugly alcoholism can be, but also its effect on alcoholic's friends. Andrew is also a great character because he really shows that things can get better. It's not easy, but it's possible.
I loved how, throughout the book, we can actually see Andrew and Jamie at different stage of their relationship. Seeing them evolve toward something better was great.
The only downside for me was that it took place on a very long period of time. I don't like that much because it means some parts are "fast-forwarded". But other than that it was still a very great book.
I highly recommend it!
Thanks to the author for providing me with a copy of the book.
September 29, 2015
Blue Columbine
There are so many facets to this novel. I loved the story line of redemption and forever love. I didn't feel that it needed to be drug out as long as it was. Having said that, I did like all the side stories that were included in this novel. Particularly the legal battle of ID vs evolution.
The writing is captivating and truly holds your attention. This is a wonderful Christian novel that I definitely recommend to all who love a great romance plus a heart warming story of God's great mercy!
There are so many facets to this novel. I loved the story line of redemption and forever love. I didn't feel that it needed to be drug out as long as it was. Having said that, I did like all the side stories that were included in this novel. Particularly the legal battle of ID vs evolution.
The writing is captivating and truly holds your attention. This is a wonderful Christian novel that I definitely recommend to all who love a great romance plus a heart warming story of God's great mercy!
January 2, 2016
Blue Columbine is beautifully written! The lives of Jamie and Andy start out as children. Andy stands up for Jamie as they grow up. As life would have it, they move away from each other and each of them deal with struggles...a parent dying, the other parent remarrying, introduction to alcohol which leads to alcoholism, the consequences that go with alcoholism....can the love of God break through all these struggles? A Christian fiction with loads of real life relatable examples that many people face. I totally recommend this book!
I was given this book in exchange for my honest review.
I was given this book in exchange for my honest review.
September 11, 2016
This is a heart wrenching story of love, betrayal, forgiveness, redemption and learning to trust. Having gone through a situation with a loved one with an addiction this really brought back memories and feelings in my own life. The never ending promises to not ever do it again and then not being able to stop. Jamie and Andy are characters that you will love and at the same time just want to choke them because you know what they need to do. But God in His mercy took a hand in the situation. I give this book 5+ stars. It was great!
May 29, 2015
Blue Columbine by Jennifer Rodewald is a very inspirational book dealing with very relevant issues for Christians.
Jennifer dealt with the issues of addiction second chances and the redeeming power of God's love.
I loved the characters of Jaime and Andy and how they dealt with all the trauma and upheaval in there lives.
You have to see how Blue Columbines play a part in their lives,so sweet.
A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review.
Jennifer dealt with the issues of addiction second chances and the redeeming power of God's love.
I loved the characters of Jaime and Andy and how they dealt with all the trauma and upheaval in there lives.
You have to see how Blue Columbines play a part in their lives,so sweet.
A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review.
August 26, 2015
Thoroughly enjoyed this book!
Didn't realize when I started reading this book that it was about addiction. I have gone through addictions of my own, with food, and know how addictions can take over a life and change the direction. I could really relate to the characters, and the characteristics of each individual. I really look forward to more books by this author.
Didn't realize when I started reading this book that it was about addiction. I have gone through addictions of my own, with food, and know how addictions can take over a life and change the direction. I could really relate to the characters, and the characteristics of each individual. I really look forward to more books by this author.
September 29, 2015
Wonderful story
I don't usually highlight sentences in books but with this book I found myself highlighting three different areas. This story really made me stop and think about my own failures and deep regrets. I definitely could relate with the character's need for forgiveness.
Maybe other readers will enjoy this tender love story as much as I did.
I don't usually highlight sentences in books but with this book I found myself highlighting three different areas. This story really made me stop and think about my own failures and deep regrets. I definitely could relate with the character's need for forgiveness.
Maybe other readers will enjoy this tender love story as much as I did.
July 7, 2015
Really sweet book. Super sad what he went through. And her too!!! But a good book! I look forward to more from this author!
July 24, 2015
A godly story
I enjoy reading a book with a godly message. So many novels are hard to read because they always take a love story and turn it into a sex story. Well done.
I enjoy reading a book with a godly message. So many novels are hard to read because they always take a love story and turn it into a sex story. Well done.
October 5, 2015
A very good book for an authors first! It kept me involved and I wanted to find out what would happen!
September 9, 2016
Blue Columbine is a well-written, heart-wrenching, story. The characters are believable and the story true to life. I'm not so sure I could have made the same choices Jamie did.
June 10, 2018
God does work in mysterious ways, and sometimes, you don't often know, or often can't tell, how He will be able to pull good out of evil, but He can. I like that about this book. It got dark, gritty, and ugly, only to turn around and show us the hope and beauty that can lay in the end of it all, even in the midst of it all, when you trust God. And I even cried during this, not because it was that painful (though it did get pretty emotional at times) but because I'm kind of at that part in my life where Jamie was before Adam. my best friend is getting married soon and I am feeling rather lonely, especially more so after God has just about hammered into me that yes, He wants me to get married (He's even taken the liberty of naming all my children . . . I guess that's one thing I can check off my list of wondering about/worry). The other thing is, I see myself a lot in Jamie, and this guy I've had a crush on for years in Andy. Here's the thing, my crush is an actor, and I don't follow him on social media (not anymore, anyway), but there are days, like while reading this book, that makes me stop and think of him, and I pray for him. And just like Andy, he grew up in the Faith, but left it while he pursued his career (of course it doesn't help with the odd coincidences in this book, I'm currently residing in Colorado and he was from Iowa!! And like Jamie, I don't want to give myself up to hope that it'll happen until I'm positive it will happen . . . even though I'm sure God's whacking me at this point telling me that it will, the two of us just need more time). At least in a recent interview he stood up for the Church when the media wanted to rip it apart. That gave me some hope that he hasn't completely disregarded his Sunday lessons. XD
Anyway, enough of my personal roller coaster, my point is, this is a good book, I liked it, and it will probably remain my favorite once I'm done with the series (even though the next book is Red Rose Bouquet, and I adore roses . . . unless I need to read that too . . . this whole series is going to be a favorite, isn't it?).
P.S. The baby in the epilogue is adorable, I laughed out loud when Andy did.
Anyway, enough of my personal roller coaster, my point is, this is a good book, I liked it, and it will probably remain my favorite once I'm done with the series (even though the next book is Red Rose Bouquet, and I adore roses . . . unless I need to read that too . . . this whole series is going to be a favorite, isn't it?).
P.S. The baby in the epilogue is adorable, I laughed out loud when Andy did.
January 2, 2021
I know several recovering alcoholic's, although I didn't know them whilst they were in the depths of their addictions. My husband comes from a family where alocoholism runs through the generations and it has had a devastating impact. So I have some knowledge on the subject and can say that this author did the subject justice. She didn't downplay the struggles for either the addict or for those who love an addict. And that makes God's redeeming grace all the more beautiful.
Andrews fall from grace due to his addiction was inevitable, and it was joyful to see his climb out of the pit. But what really capitivated me in this story was Jamie. How do you help an addict whom you love? How do you discern when grace and forgiveness are required, or when to leave before the addict that you love destroys everything? How do you learn to trust again when your heart has been broken? Jamie faces all of these questions and it tests her faith.
This story also shows the importance of community - we are not supposed to face trials alone.
Not a light read, but well worth taking the time to journey with Andrew and Jamie.
Andrews fall from grace due to his addiction was inevitable, and it was joyful to see his climb out of the pit. But what really capitivated me in this story was Jamie. How do you help an addict whom you love? How do you discern when grace and forgiveness are required, or when to leave before the addict that you love destroys everything? How do you learn to trust again when your heart has been broken? Jamie faces all of these questions and it tests her faith.
This story also shows the importance of community - we are not supposed to face trials alone.
Not a light read, but well worth taking the time to journey with Andrew and Jamie.
June 30, 2021
I highly recommend this book; everyone knows someone in their lives who is going through the difficult journey these characters are facing. I read this book many months ago so I cannot remember names, but I absolutely remember the story. It is about alcoholism, about brokenness, and about God's amazing mercy and lifting up broken people to the grace and gift of ongoing healing journeys. Jennifer tackles the unreality of denial, the painful reality of enablement, and the tough choices necessary to permit the alcoholic to learn that his (or her, but this is about a male because we still do talk about people as male and female). choices have consequences for good or for ill, and the good choices require a great deal of courage. Having had the privilege in my life of seeing alcoholics close to me turn to God, make their peace with God, and some even die in that peace with love and courage, this book hits a deep spot in my soul that strengthens my hope and my gratitude. I see that I read this book in December, and I am even more grateful because between Thanksgiving and Christmas is a good time to read a hope-filled book about alcoholism.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews