shelfreflectionofficial's Reviews (844)

The last line of the book summary says, "And about an encrypted computer file that Cody can't open- until she does, and suddenly everything Cody thought she knew about her best friend's death gets thrown into question." Based on this, I was expecting more of a mysterious thriller, unfortunately it was not.

Without giving too much away, I think my biggest thing with this book was the lack of hope. The topic of suicide is a loaded topic. Obviously I don't know everything about it and don't know anyone who has experienced it personally, but I was disappointed with the way they handled it in the book. It felt like their version of 'hope' was basically 'CHOOSE not to kill yourself' which does not do the situation justice and isn't that simple. I knew it wasn't a Christian-centered book going in, so I wasn't expecting them to talk about the (true and only) hope of Jesus, but at least talk about how your life has purpose or meaning, give some sort of substantial and realistic hope or steps toward it. I feel like the author had Cody give up on Meg and just think 'I'm not going to turn out like her.'

The plot itself was fairly anti-climatic and the ending did not feel like it resolved much even though it was trying to. The story was heartfelt and drew you in, I just wish it didn't leave you to fend for yourself without showing you the way to realistic and life-changing hope that those dealing with depression need.

This was a jarring picture depicting our rebellion against God's desire to have a relationship with him. A good reminder of His unconditional love and his desire just for us to come home.

The story was engaging, the writing was great!

I loved Steven James' fiction writing and always appreciated his profundity in his novels dealing with good and evil so I thought I would try his nonfiction work. I was not disappointed! He's a great storyteller. I am a lover of words and was very engaged in his writing style and his 'musings'. I also love to write and this book inspired me to pick up the pen again. He has a way with words and saying what everyone wants to say but doesn't have the words for.

It's not a theologically dense book but a look into questions of faith in a more approachable way. I love a good theological book as well, but there is a place for both. This book is definitely a valuable compilation to read and ponder.

Good and mysterious book! Keeps you guessing. Could have done without some of the language. It was an intriguing plot and a new setting for me so it kept me interested.