My Review of As The Light Fades by Catherine West: I almost stopped reading this book as there was a lot of content I disagreed with and expected to end differently. I am dissatisfied with the end as there was no redemption as I thought there would be. I can’t recommend this book unless readers are over 17/18 and read with care. I did enjoy the story but was upset that Matt’s faith didn’t seem real and that he pursued a relationship Liz even though she was not saved. There was a unwed pregnancy and other subjects (some of which may cause triggers.)

This would have been a 5 star book if the characters were redeemed but since this book is not marketed as Christian fiction I suppose it’s all right. As is it’s a 3 and 1/2 star book. ( )

The story of the Carlisle family began in The Things We Knew. Now, Catherine West revisits them (with a focus on Liz Carlisle) for an emotional and hopeful second story, As the Light Fades.

Liz returns to her hometown of Nantucket when she needs an escape, healing, a fresh start. When she ends up renting from Matthew Stone, she begins getting to know him and his troubled niece Mia. They all have baggage to handle, and as they do so, their story proves moving and uplifting.

I have loved everything I have read by Catherine West, and As the Light Fades is no exception. It is a contemporary story, full of hard topics, authentic growth and relationships, and a sweet romance. It’s an entirely enjoyable read; I loved it and recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own. ( )

I’m amazed at how this author can tell so many storylines, backstories, and points of view—without confusing readers or making them stumble! Ms. West is a masterful storyteller, weaving each character’s story into a lovely mélange that’s both significant and satisfying. I love the cover art, the meaningful title, and the sentiments this story left in its wake!

As the Light Fades is moving, meaningful, and memorable. It centers on mature subjects, such as family dynamics, self-injurious behavior, the aftermath of abuse, trust, and faith. But even with these serious themes, the story isn’t heavy or depressing. It’s rather uplifting and edifying.

It’s difficult to say who my favorite character is. Each character adds so much to the story and I sympathized and rooted for each of them. Liz, who is closed off and untrusting, unknowingly seeks a deeper and more meaningful life. Matt’s do-good, non-confrontational personality begins to weigh him down as he carries around heavy burdens from the past (as well as the present.) Drake navigates the trials of growing old the best he knows how. And Mia, the tortured teenaged soul, yearns for peace, protection, and someone to believe in.

Whew. I went through so many emotions while delving into the lives of these Nantucket residents. This seaside town and the flawed families that reside there now hold a dear place in my heart. I truly hope to revisit this place and these people. I didn’t want their stories to end!

Source: I received a complimentary copy of this book as part of Prism Book Tours and NetGalley. Opinions expressed are completely my own. ( )

If you have read the blurb for Catherine West’s latest novel, As The Light Fades, you get only part of the picture of this multi-layered novel. Yes this is Liz’s story, but it is also Mia’s and Drake’s and . . . . You get the picture. And yet I never felt the complex plot was anything but natural. As The Light Fades is about life in all of its messiness, sorrow, and hope. A story to be savored, I highly recommend it!

As The Light Fades is told through third person points of view, the first person thoughts of Drake Carlisle, an Alzheimer victim, and teenaged Mia’s diary entries. This nuanced style gives the reader a unique perspective on all that is happening within the lives of the characters. And what characters they are — Mia, a traumatized teenager who reacts with anger and fear; Liz, hiding from a violent ex and the mistakes of her past; Drake, a once brilliant artist now locked within a mind that can’t quite grasp his current reality; and Matthew, a tremendously good guy who brings stability and security to more than one character. Along with the wonderful Nantucket setting, this book has all the elements for a good story. It is West’s deft handling that brings it up to great status. There is a lot going on in As The Light Fades, and I cannot begin to relate it without telling you the whole story. Story lines tangle themselves together, just like the stories of real life. And that is one of its many strengths. So what was my favorite part of this novel? Matthew. Realistically portrayed, Matthew has a deep faith that withstands doubts and trials. He is strong and dependable, loving and accepting, a person you would want as son, brother, uncle, and friend. He is not superman, but close enough! 😉 He also exemplifies what a home should look like. I found the concept of home to be a strong theme — what it really means to belong to a place and people. The only negative about As The Light Fades is that I want to know more! But isn’t that what a lot of great books do? It’s keeping this reader thinking and wondering.

For women’s fiction with heart and soul, you cannot go wrong with As The Light Fades.

Highly Recommended.

Audience: adults.

(Thanks to the author for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.) ( )

In As the Light Fades, Catherine West once again grabs readers’ heartstrings and tugs on them throughout the book.

West delicately yet authentically tackles some difficult subjects such as abuse an Alzheimer’s right alongside family dynamics and fresh starts. Liz and Matthew face challenges and stand on the precipice of new beginnings as they struggle to overcome obstacles while their lives intertwine.

Friendships formed, healing relationships, shedding shame, and forgiveness granted are a few of the themes in this emotional and engaging new release. And yes, I’m already wondering how many tissue boxes we’ll have go through in the next read from this author.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. ( )