Christa Parrish

I think I have covered all Parrish's books by now....this one did not disappoint. Very compelling story told in parallel between past and present -- and the point where that intersects is a scar that needs healing. The book raises big questions of identity, of trust, of overcoming fear. How do people move on when they experience tragedy? Who helps out along the way? When a group of unlikely characters come together (and together again) life transforms in unexpected ways. (Trying not to give too much away here!)The ending isn't a happy perfect solution, but it is meaningful and meant to be.… (meer)

I'm systematically reading through this author's work -- having started with Stones for Bread -- so far none measure up, but I can see her progress and growth as a writer. This story about a cop who finds an abandoned baby and ends up fostering her with his wife who is unable to have children really gets into some interesting issues. Essentially at the heart of the story is a crisis of faith, but it plays out differently for each character involved. Parrish is very talented at creating complex characters that the reader cares about and weaves a complicated plot (sometimes too much heaped in) and while the ending may not be happy, it is meaningful.… (meer)

Decent first novel with complex characters and a compelling plot. Some parts seemed trite and predictable, but the author also reaches some original and thoughtful insight. A little preachy at times -- (Christian fiction) Sarah Graham is broke and broken and heads to the small upstate NY mountain town of Jonah (example of preachy aspect) to pick up what her father has willed her after his death. They have long been estranged since he ruined their family in her childhood. However, his will has conditions: she must live in Jonah for 6 mos. before she can claim the cash. This helps her heal despite her attempts to keep everyone at arm's length. Quick, light read.… (meer)