Every Window Filled with Light

by Shelia Stovall

A heartwarming small town story of faith and forgiveness, friendship and family, and hope for a better future. Welcome to Weldon, where the only things the locals love more than fried fruit pies are gossip and match-making.Librarian Emma Baker, a young and childless widow, believes her dream to build a family is over. It’s been two years since a student accidentally stabbed Emma’s husband to death, and her grief has stifled any interest in romance—until she meets Pastor Luke Davis. But when Emma learns Luke is counseling her husband’s killer fresh out of jail, her temper gets in the way.Meanwhile, Emma discovers twelve-year-old Harley, abandoned by her drug-addict mother, hiding in the library, and takes the girl in as her foster mom. Then a young mother is made homeless by an apartment fire, and Emma opens her home again. One person and one prayer at a time, Emma begins to discover hope.A charming story of love and loss and love again. A gift for anyone who has journeyed through the shadows of grief and emerged into sunlight. —Phil Gulley, Best-selling author of the Harmony series.Every Window Filled with Light by Shelia Stovall is a warm and delightful story of forgiveness and hope. Stovall skillfully paints a great word picture of her fictional little town of Weldon and peoples it with characters you will be glad to meet as you follow their stories. You'll love the generous heart of Emma and admire her resilience as she faces the challenges of life and love. If you like feel-good stories, then Every Window Filled with Light is a book you won't want to miss.—Ann H. Gabhart, best-selling author of An Appalachian Summer.Every Window Filled With Light is a beautiful story of hope and new beginnings, filled with characters who come alive, and a deeper meaning that will resonate in readers' hearts. An excellent debut!—Misty M. Beller, USA Today bestselling author.A lovely story of friendship, faith and forgiveness, restoration and redemption—with an engaging romance that will warm your heart. Shelia Stovall invites you into a community where broken people come together to help one another, with the charm of a small town and a deep message of how faith heals. Shelia Stovall has created a charming community of characters who make you yearn for a visit and a piece of pie. Every Window Filled With Light tackles tough issues with warmth and wisdom. A wonderful small-town novel full of caring souls you’ll be happy to get to know. A heartwarming story full of faith, hope and love.—Judy Christie, author of the Gone to Green series.What a sweet Christian debut! I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know this cast of small-town characters!.—Janet W. Ferguson, 2020 FHL Readers' Choice Award Winner, 2017 Grace Award Winner, Christy Award Finalist, Selah Award Finalist, Ian Award Finalist.Every Window Filled With Light by Shelia Stovall is a masterfully woven story of friendship, hope, and fried fruit pies. The stories of Emma Baker, who longs for children and who sees no hope of that since her husband’s murder, and Harley West, an abandoned teen who sees no hope for her future at all, come together in the small town of Weldon, Kentucky. Only God could have orchestrated the events in the lives of Emma and Harley along with those of a handsome young unmarried pastor. With God directing their paths, this is the story of how they all helped one another through seemingly impossible circumstances.

Genres: Fiction

382 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 23, 2021

Reviews

[Connie Saunders · Rating 5 out of 5]

A widowed librarian in a small town, a minister who looks like he's stepped off the cover of CQ, and a teenager who's been forced to grow up too fast. Three very different people who share one common connection--they've all experienced deep hurts! These are just three of the great characters in Every Window Filled with Light, and they are some of the reasons that I enjoyed this book so much. Author Shelia Stover is a librarian herself and she perfectly describes some of the activities that a library director would be involved in. She also gives Emma Baker a loving, generous heart for young people, with one notable exception. She cannot forgive the young man that she holds responsible for the death of her husband. She's lost the love of her life, she can't have children, and her relationship with her mother is nothing to write home about. Emma is basically alone!

Every Window Filled with Light refers to Emma's desire to fill her large, stately home with people. This is a touching story of hurts left to fester, forgiveness that seems to be elusive, and the addiction epidemic that threatens our society. It is also a testament to the power of love and faith, and the liberation that comes from forgiveness.

I enjoyed everything about this book! The depiction of life in a small town, the people who live there, and the reminder of the importance of good foster care. I also enjoyed the hint of romance and the strong faith element woven throughout the story. This is Shelia Stover's debut novel and I look forward to reading more about the fictional town of Weldon, Kentucky. I recommend Every Window Filled with Light to all who enjoy Christian fiction.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and Celebrate Lit. There was no obligation for a positive review.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

EVERY WINDOW FILLED WITH LIGHT is the first book in a new series and I loved every minute of it. The story takes place in Weldon Kentucky and Shelia Stovall describes it so beautifully that I am ready to pack my bags and go see it for myself. What more could you ask for right? EVERY WINDOW FILLED WITH LIGHT deals with so many different emotions that one minute I was giggling and the next tearing up. I love when an author can do that to their readers! Don’t you just love small town romance stories?

EVERY WINDOW FILLED WITH LIGHT will surely pull at your heart strings and make it very hard for you to put down. If you are like me, you won’t be able to stop until you know what happens to all of these beautiful people in Weldon. Reading how Emma and Pastor Luke responded to each other is very funny since both are so stubborn. Is it possible for them to get a chance at love if they would just stop and listen to the other? I’m not going to tell you, but I will say that you really should read A EVERY WINDOW FILLED WITH LIGHT and get to know this lovable small town. Also, when you learn about Harley, the young girl hiding in the closet at the library and what she has been dealing with, it will break your heart! That’s all I can say!

EVERY WINDOW FILLED WITH LIGHT is an awesome way to spend the afternoon or evening. I’m so excited to continue with the series and learn more about my new found friends. Once you start EVERY WINDOW FILLED WITH LIGHT you won’t be able to put it down and will find yourself cheering for Emma, Luke, and Harley as they try to navigate their way through a very different and unique situation. Be prepared to have Harley steal your heart! Shelia Stovall will pull you in from the very first page and never let you go!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author through JustRead Publicity Tours. All opinions are my own.

[Suzie Waltner · Rating 4 out of 5]

In her debut novel, Shelia Stovall invites readers into the charming Kentucky town of Weldon, where the grapevine is alive and well, but the townspeople gather together when needed.

Emma Baker has a good heart, but it’s been hurt, and she struggles with anger toward the person responsible. When a young teenager enters her home, Emma’s dream of filling her large home with family becomes a reality, but there are plenty of bumps in the road ahead.

Every Window Filled with Light drew me into the quaint setting with true Southern warmth and hospitality. I rooted for (most) every character that stepped onto the page. As each person struggles with their past and their pain, God’s love prevails. A story of forgiveness, hope, and finding family, this story left me satisfied yet wanting more. I’m rooting for Casey’s story soon.

[Deena Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a wonderful debut by this author. I really enjoyed the small town setting and southern characters, whom I could easily picture. The cute little sayings sprinkled throughout made me chuckle and brought a lightness to the story.

Although easy to read, the author tackled important topics such as addictions, abandonment, and forgiveness and showed the flawed thinking that many Christ-followers struggle with. I appreciate the inclusion of Scripture and prayers and that the Lord was the center of this story. I give a hearty well-done to Ms. Stovall.

[Regina Merrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every Window Filled with Light by Shelia Stovall was a delight on so many levels. It has humor, tugs at your heart-strings, offers a little romance, and basically makes you want to move to her fictional town of “Weldon, KY.” The characters, even the minor ones, are so well-developed that I can explain to you who most of them are. They’re not all particularly likeable, which is refreshing. Emma is a public librarian who has suffered great loss; Harley is the young girl who has suffered loss of her own; Luke thinks he’s not worthy to pastor a church. Each character intermingles with a cast of characters that pull them together in a way that feels realistic. It’s not a cookie-cutter, sweet little Christian fiction novel – it’s a novel about real people with real problems and a very real God who has the ability to see them through. I highly recommend this book, and surely look forward to book 2! I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, but all opinions are definitely my own.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Every Window Filled with Light by Sheila Stovall is the debut of The Weldon Novels. This is a charming story about library director, Emma Baker who is a widow. She is just starting to emerge from her grief, but sadness still plagues her at the idea of her home not being filled with light and laughter. Emma then finds Harley camping out in the library. Emma becomes a foster mother to the prickly teen. Emma and Harley are in for a bumpy road. After a beginning that had me cringing (I am not a fan of slimy creatures), I became immersed into the story. It contains good writing with developed characters and steady pacing. I liked seeing the main characters grow as the story progressed. I enjoyed the charming setting of Weldon, Kentucky. It is a sweet Southern town with friendly residents who look out for each other. We get to see true Southern hospitality. Emma belongs to a wonderful church family. I like how they help each other out. Faith is prominently featured in Every Window Filled with Light. Trusting God, forgiveness, and prayer are a couple of the topics addressed. Except for a mild swear word in the story (repeated at least twice), this is a clean Christian story. Every Window Filled with Light is a heartwarming story about forgiveness, having hope, finding family, good friends, and relying on God. Every Window Filled with Light is a touching tale with flavorsome fried pies, a troubled teen, a marvelous Victorian, a bouncy baby, a sweet Schnauzer, scrumptious cookies, and absorbing books.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a touching tale of of healing, forgiveness and restoration. I like how Luke is not what the characters think a pastor should be, showing that God can use anyone and good can come from bad.

I have to say at first I really was thinking I am going to like this book because of the title, it just sound so hopefully. But then the first sentence made me cringe because I don't like snakes at all. Here is the first sentence " The albino python flicked its tongue next to Emma Baker's cheek." I am happy to say the book isn't at all about snakes but "Every Window Filled with Light" by Shelia Stovall is an uplifting story of hope.There are many instances that are part of the story that teaches and shows us how to live a better life filled with joy and happiness even through you are dealing with sorrows and issues in your life that is so not joyful.

All of the characters in this story have past hurts and issues they are dealing with!

This is a clean story but does contain a few instances of a mild swear word ( and you know how I feel about that).

I definitely recommend this book to any reader who wants to be inspired by what faith and forgiveness in action can do!

This is the first book of the series and I am eagerly awaiting the rest!

I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[Becca Hope · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely LOVED this book. It was emotional, heartbreaking, and hopeful all wrapped up in one beautiful story. I found myself unable to tear my eyes away from the page, needing to know what happened next.

Emma is such a sweet character, doing anything she can to help the people around her. All she wants is a family, a dream that died with her husband.

Harley is a kid who seems tough on the outside but she’s actually scared on the inside. She runs away from her drug-addicted mother and winds up in the care of Emma. I loved that the author would switch to Harley’s point of view from time to time, and wish she did it more, because those were my favorite parts of the book.

Luke is also an amazing character. He also has a big heart and wants to help others. Although he doesn’t have a lot of confidence in himself and still carries around the scars from his past, that never stops him from being there for the people of Weldon when they need him.

Overall, I would highly recommend this novel. It is a wonderful story that will make you cry, so make sure you have the tissues nearby when you read it.

I had received a copy of this book as part of the Celebrate Lit Blogging Team and was required to give an honest review.

[Joan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. The characters are engaging. Each of them has hurts needing so desperately to be healed. And healing does occur when grieving Emma decides to take a chance and let a troubled youth into her life. The supporting characters were great too. Minnie and Casey are wonderful support for Emma. And Emma's mom, well, she does have a soft spot in her heart though she hides it well.

The plot is touching and the life lessons included are wonderful. I like the thought provoking aspects of the novel like exploring the difference between writing a check to a charity and taking in someone when their dwelling has burned down. I like how the characters learn to trust God when bad things are happening. And I like the insights into maintaining a positive attitude.

This is a touching novel with themes of healing, forgiveness and restoration woven through it. There is a strong Christian message of trusting God included. I highly recommend it.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Janet Ferguson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a sweet Christian debut! I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know this cast of small-town characters!.

[Ann Gabhart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great small town story with loveable characters.

[Delores Topliff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kudos. I appreciate this sensitive, well-written broad scale and empathetic debut novel. Stovall succeeded in making me care about these characters and did a good job of providing believable and satisfying denouement. I'll be looking forward to her future books.

[Mindy Steele · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful story!!! A story of overcoming and finding one's purpose. Of forgiveness and challenging our faith. The history woven within will have you marveling at the strong women who love others more than their selves.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book so interesting, intriguing, a page turner, hated to put book down.
Did I mention I loved reading this book.
I highly recommend and will read again.
There are Triggers in this book like drug addiction, Foster Homes, Abandonment but this book covers these areas in a sensitive, well thought way that helps everyone.
Hope you read this book because it's enlightening, filled with hope and so much more.

[Wren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, how I loved this book! There's Emma, who lives alone in her enormous Victorian home; widowed by the quick actions of a boy with a knife at her late husband's school. There's Harley, a teen who ran away from her mom's drug abuse and worse. There's Pastor Luke, who's got his own secrets but loves and follows God. All of these, and more, live in Weldon, a small town in Kentucky, with many other vibrant characters (who range from lovable to those you'd want to avoid, yourself!).

Emma had longed for a family but Chris's murder cut those dreams away. Yet when Harley shows up at Emma's library, the two end up together in Emma's home via foster care. That's when Emma's existence comes to life again after two long years of grieving and half-living, somewhat shell-shocked. Harley's presence brings her own intensity, creating a need for Emma to learn to stand her ground AND show love and care to the girl. And that Pastor Luke who is, let's face it, a hottie; keeps showing up and both attracting Emma and making her mad.

As we read Every Window Filled with Light, we experience the joys of Emma's reawakening life; along with Harley's very understandable fears, Luke's feelings of not being "enough," and the comforts of a small-town. We also see how God really does work in the lives of His beloved children who occupy the earth.

If you enjoyed Jan Karon's Mitford series, you're going to adore Shelia Stovall's Weldon series. Then, like me, you'll be looking for the next book!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those books that will stay with you for a long time. The author has written such an emotional story that I found myself crying during parts of it. It is an incredible journey of forgiveness, trust and family. The lead character Emma has such a giving heart it is hard not to like her. When she opens her home to a young girl in need, they both find themselves yearning for acceptance. Emma has this big house and her desire has always been to fill it with people. When her husband is tragically killed, she starts to feel lonely and bitter. I liked walking with her as she allows God to help her through her anger at the person responsible for her husband’s death.

Harley is a young girl in desperate need of someone to love her. I cried when I read about her home life. Her mother has been caught up in drugs and Harley finds herself on the receiving end of her mother’s bad choices. I liked the part where Harley ends up in Emma’s care. They both need each other and this brings hope to both of them. Harley may be hard to handle at times but she will need to learn to trust before she can let her guard down. Can you imagine being on your own at such a young age?

I loved how the author gives readers a realistic look at people with a past that many have dealt with. I’m sure we all have a family member or friend that has suffered with drug abuse or physical abuse. The author doesn’t sugar coat anything but gives us a lesson on turning to God in our darkest moments. There is a definite feel of faith in the story as scriptures and prayers are scattered throughout the book. There is a bit of romance in the book, but it is not the focal point of the story. I look forward to reading more from this author.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoy reading books from new Authors. Sheila Stovall is a new author and one I hadn't heard of until recently. Every Window Filled with Light by Sheila Stovall is the first book of The Weldon Novels. It is a Contemporary Christian Fiction novel.

Librarian Emma Baker of Weldon, Kentucky, is still grieving the loss of her husband. She had dreams with her husband of raising a family, but a few years ago her husband was accidentally stabbed and killed. Emma isn't sure she will ever love again and then she meets Pastor Luke Davis. Emma is interested in Pastor Luke, and then she discovers he is counseling her Husband's killer, who was recently released from prison. Emma's life takes another interesting turn when she finds an abandoned 12yr old girl hiding in the library. Emma takes Harley into her home as a foster child as Harley's mom is a drug addict and left her daughter. Emma's home is opened once again when a young single mom is left homeless due to an apartment fire. With the recent turn of events for Emma and all the people who have come into her life, Emma is feeling refreshed and renewed as of current. She is praying and thinking about forgiveness. She knows her husband's killer has been released from Prison and if she were able to forgive the killer, could she find true happiness again. Will Emma be able to forgive the killer? Does Pastor Luke have an opportunity to help her through the forgiveness and maybe a chance at love with Emma? Will Emma ever have a Family? Ohhh, so many stories!!

I really enjoyed this novel! The author has a GREAT writing style that keeps the readers interest in the story. Emma has such a kind heart, even through her grief. All the characters of the book have some "baggage" that they are trying to work through. Every Window Filled with Light is a book about forgiveness, family, moving forward with Life. GREAT BOOK!

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

How do you accidentally stab someone to death? I mean it’s not something I normally think about but really made me go hmmm. Anyway.

Emma is our main character and she’s dealt with her husband’s death or so she thought until the man she’s become interested in is counseling her husband’s killer who is now out of jail. Talk about a triangle!

Add in some unloved children and some disasters and you’ve got a bit of a picture of what is to come in this book. I really enjoyed getting to know the characters. They’re loveable and easily pull you into their web so you’re caught and simply can’t put the book down.

I believe that this is the author’s debut novel and I for one will be following to see what she comes up with next!

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Every Window Filled with Light is a wonderful debut for Shelia Stovall. It begins her The Weldon Novels series. I have to admit that I had a hard time getting through this one. I recently lost my husband almost two months ago and the grief and heartache of Emma was triggering for me at times. After getting through that, I thought the book was a great read. It is a heartwarming and sweet story. It is one that many would be able to relate to and feel as though they know the characters. I loved the town of Weldon, Kentucky and meeting everyone who lived there.

I am giving Every Window Filled with Light four and a half stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean and inspirational romance. I look forward to reading Shelia Stovall’s next installment from The Weldon Novels series.

I received Every Window Filled with Light from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Edwina Cowgill · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heart-warming, moving and inspiring story! The characters, even the ones who are a little rough around the edges, are lovable and it was a joy to read as they matured and grew. I loved the community of Weldon, Kentucky, where it seems everyone knows everyone and if they don't, it doesn't take long to learn about the new residents. This is a story of forgiveness, restitution, hope, second chances and love. It is a book that you definitely want to add to your reading list

[Nyla Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every Window Filled with Light by author Sheila Stovall is a contemporary Christian Fiction. It is a touching story that moved me and stayed with me long after I had finished it. I was not sure what to expect, and this book was a poignant surprise.

This is the story of Emma Baker. One of the reasons this book is a surprise is that in the beginning we read: “The albino python flicked its tongue next to Emma Baker's cheek." Truthfully, I almost put the book down right then. My thoughts on snakes are such that my favorite one is a dead one. Yes, I have a fear of them. Thankfully, this was just an opening attention-getter and not a snake filled book. Back to Emma, she is a librarian and caring soul. She has lost her husband and has been receiving letters from his killer.

This is also the tale of tattooed minister Luke Davis. He does not look anything like the stereotypical pastor, but he is a phenomenal one. He preaches love and forgiveness. Looks might be deceiving, but actions and words speak volumes in this case. Luke is definitely a man of faith.

Author Stovall has an inviting style of writing. I was immediately interested in Emma and her life. Her emotions were easy to feel through the pages. Conversations read smoothly and sounded realistic. Each character was believable and realistic. The storyline was unique and held my interest. I love books set in Indiana and Kentucky since I am a Hoosier and have many relatives from the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

There were many timeless life and spiritual lessons in this story. The main ones were trusting God, learning that God uses us all for His purpose and brings out out of every situation, healing, true forgiveness and restoration. I like how Luke is not what the characters think a pastor should be, showing that God can use anyone and good can come from bad. This is an encouraging message about hope, love, joy, and living better even during

I definitely recommend this book. It is an illustration of faith in action and forgiveness lived. It would make a fabulous small group or book club choice. There is so much to discuss. I rated it 5 out of 5 stars. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit, but these are my own words.

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every Window Filled with Light is written by Shelia Stovall. This is the first book that I have read by this author, and I have enjoyed it very much. There is a lot going on in this book. We see widow Emma Baker. She is still deeply grieving the loss of her husband, who was stabbed by a student. She is a librarian. She and her husband did not have any children and she wonders if she will ever have an opportunity to love. She then meets Pastor Luke Davis. I love how Emma starts to realize she could open her heart again. But she is stopped dead in her tracks when she realizes that Luke is counseling her husbands killer.

The author then takes us on a journey. We know that Emma still has a lot of hurt, anger and hatred in her heart. She despises her husbands killer. God starts his work on Emma. Harley, a young girl who has been abandoned by her drug addict mother enters her life. She knows that she needs to help her. She has found her hiding in the library. She wants to help keep her safe. She becomes her foster mother. She starts to forget about her own pain as she helps Harley heal and feel safe.

Then God places another person in her path. There is a young mother is made homeless by an apartment fire. Emma welcomes her with open arms. God uses these individuals that he has placed in her life to heal Emma. He uses them to restore her heart.

I love how the author chose real feeling characters. This is not a cookie cutter Christian story. The characters are hurt, they have felt pain. They do not have perfect lives. I love how the story of Emma and Luke progresses. I hope to read more from this author.

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program, all thoughts are my own.

[Elizabeth Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Thoughts

“Every window of my home is filled with light, and I felt compelled to run to God, to thank him for answering my prayer for a family.”

This book would make a great read for anyone who struggles with letting go of the past, forgiveness, and opening up their hearts from scars. I found myself highlighting and reflecting quote after quote that I enjoyed from the book, that I knew I’d want to remember and reflect on later.

I really enjoyed the story line, and found the reading to be both intriguing and thought provoking. I also loved the humor that was sprinkled throughout the book. I posted my favorite giggle down below.

“Your favorite cookie is like your favorite book.” Emma frowned, confused. “The one that’s in your hand, that’s your favorite.” “You’ve got that right.” Casey laughed.

I really appreciated how the book had pearls of wisdom from the bible sprinkled throughout. This makes it a really palatable book for the unbeliever that you may want to share this book with.

“Happiness is a choice. Only a foolish person chooses anything else, and I ain’t that.”

“Life is not fair, but let me tell you what makes it better. Freedom. You are free to choose your response – in every situation. I’ve learned to choose kindness and happiness. If you want to discover happiness, learn to ignore unpleasant people and forgive. Don’t let their dirt stick to you. Walk around it.”

I loved how God's wondrous hand and glory shined bright throughout this book. The message of forgiveness, grace, trusting God, healing, and giving thanks through everything filled the pages of this book. I highly recommend this book, and I can't wait to read more from this author.!

For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.”

GALATIANS 5:1

[Loretta Marchize · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

Prose: 4/5
Romance: 5/5
Characters: 4/5
Plot: 5/5

Prose:
This was a well-written book with just the right balance of sophistication and casual writing. The author’s style really drew me in.

Romance:
This is by far one of the strong points of the novel, simply because of the complexity of the characters! Both Emma and Luke have their problems, and they learn to deal with them together, which is very refreshing. The journey their relationship goes through is very engaging as well.

Characters:
There were a few moments that seemed unrealistic, but the main characters were fully developed and all fit together quite well. I enjoyed the complexity of everyone’s stories, but occasionally it was a bit much to keep track of. There was quite the cast.

Plot:
Unlike some romance novels, this had an elegant balance of romance and plot unrelated to the romance. There was a great plot line with Harley, as well as Emma’s personal life.

Overall:
I really enjoyed reading this novel! I would definitely recommend it, but take a look at my content guide first. It dealt with some pretty heavy topics, and well it was well-handled and still pretty clean, it’s not for a young audience.

Content:
I would recommend 15+, the novel dives deep into some child abuse and drug abuse. It also deals with some sensitive topics like murder, and could be a little triggering.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Randi Sampson]

Every Window Filled with Light is the first full length novel from Shelia Stovall, and my first introduction to her writing as well. Oh what an introduction it was!

Right from the start, I could tell this was going to be a good read... okay, okay that's not quite true. The story started with a snake filled scene that made me shudder thanks to my phobia of the awful creatures... but it was short lived and certainly made for a unique opening. From there, it only got better. I enjoyed the author's writing style, which just felt very natural. I was immediately drawn into Emma's story. Two years after the death of her husband, she was still struggling with the grief and anger associated with that. When she meets Luke, she begins to think that perhaps she can start to be a little more open again... only to discover that he's working with the boy who had killed her husband. Talk about complicated! This story doesn't shy away from the messiness of life, and as such felt very genuine to me. It was at times a tough story to read, but a beautifully written one anyway. It's one that you will certainly want to have your tissues handy for, that's for sure!

If you enjoy a small town story with a whole lot of heart, this is certainly one to check out. I look forward to reading more from this series and the author in the future.


**I received a complimentary copy of this book for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

[Mary Hake · Rating 5 out of 5]

A powerful story of pain and hope and the messes we often make of our lives plus the redemption possible when a person turns to God. The unique characters in this compelling tale tug at your heart strings. You can’t help caring about what happens to the widowed librarian Emma and the troubled preteen she took in, Harley, who was neglected, abused, and abandoned so she doesn’t trust anyone. Add to the mix a young single mother, Becky, and her toddler, who lost their home in a fire. Then there’s Emma’s overbearing mother, Victoria, who bosses everyone and tries to take control—but I suspect inside she truly cares. And let’s not leave out the world-wise pastor, Luke, who overcame his own treacherous upbringing and steps in when Emma’s pastor is ill and near death. Lots of trials and tension give weight to a book that shares the good and the bad, but always with at least a glimmer of hope—as we observe Harley slowly bloom like a flower unfolding and Emma along with her. It is an intriguing tale that represents real life and makes you not want to have to put it down until you finish the novel and learn the future these endearing characters find. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

[Terri Steffes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was shocked to learn that this was Sheila Stovall's first novel. She weaves a beautiful story in the town of Weldon, Kentucky where people gather together to share the latest gossip or organize help when needed. The book is set in a southern town, full of southern hospitality. I needed a story where God's love is what wins each and every time. I am glad to see this is a part one, as I am invested in the other characters as well and want to learn even more about this darling place.

I love that this Christian fiction pulls no punches about where it lands. There are a number of Bible verses that I loved. When I read Christian fiction, I want to see how our faith is applied in everyday living. The author does just that, and I gained needed insight while loving the storyline and characters.

I found myself eager to end the day, where I could grab a cup of tea and snuggle up to read this book. I hope the next one comes out really soon. I'm missing my people!

[Tabitha Bouldin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shelia Stovall's debut novel is one filled with grace and grit. The events of Emma's life have left her somewhat bereft but she manages to convey love and belonging to those around her. I enjoyed the story, the depth of the characters, and the reality portrayed in the lives of Emma, Luke, and Harley. Emma's dreams, along with her anger, felt honest and powerful, which drew me into the story. The author did not shy away from the painfulness of the subjects she presented and managed to show God's love in glorious detail. I love a small town setting, and Weldon is exactly that. All the way down to the loveable and well-meaning church ladies. I will be looking for more books from this author. I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

[Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Shelia Stovall's debut novel and I thought she did a good job on it! She writes a story filled with grace but doesn't leave emotion far behind. The characters, and I mean all of them are well developed and she makes you feel completely engaged with them. There is a realness to this story that you can't escape. It's definitely not a cookie cutter story and you will definitely feel all the emotions that both Luke and Harley are feeling. You will chuckle and grab for tissues with this book!

Overall I thought this was a great story. I love how the author weaves God's amazing grace throughout the story. I personally can't wait to read more from this author!

I received this book from the author through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Joni Truex · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every Window Filled with Light by Sheila Stovell
Every Window Filled With Light is a well written inspirational story. Forgiveness, faith, trust and love are all important topics in this book. The characters are very likeable. The plot is original. The inspirational messages in this book spoke to me. From the book:” Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there be any offensive way in me and lead me in the way of life everlasting.” I would recommend this book to inspirational fiction fans, romance readers, suspense fans and anyone that enjoys a good book. This book was provided through Celebrate Lit, the publisher and author for my review. The opinions expressed are my own thoughts.