August 2009 - Book no 25

"The Atonement Child" by Francine Rivers.

I love Francine Rivers' books that has a historical undertone like the "Voice in the wind" series. But the two books that I have read that takes place in the here and now both disappointed me. This book is an exception. I cried, I read without stopping and I found it hard to fall asleep, events just milling in my head.

I immediately liked Dynah - a honest and loving young woman. The tragedy of what happens to this woman is one thing to digest, the failing of her so called "loved ones" is something else. Her mother I can understand, the rest, just shows too much on stereotypical characters. I found Ethan such a stereotype, that I could forecast just from the back cover what his reactions were going to be. Also the Dean's reaction was no surprise. These two characters are weak. Some other characters are well developed and make the reading worth it. I especially enjoyed Grandma Evie and Cynthia Wyatt - two side characters that add a lot of dimension to the story and the message.

I found the end of the book and the resolution a bit shallow and the question of Grandam Evie remains unsolved, but in conclusion, although I have quite a bit of critic about it, a really good read. I will never be sorry that I read this book and it supports my pro-life support. Keep the tissues ready. Enjoy!
A good 8/10