Weight of Shadows

The book opens with Kim, the protagonist, attending a party in her apartment. Coincidentally, it is her birthday but nobody knows. Kim grew up foster care and has never celebrated birthdays. Enter Rick, handsome, edgy, charming, and also grew up between foster care and a physically abusive father.

Meanwhile, Joshua, a recently widowed father of 4 year old Maddie, is looking over medical bills and deciding to sell his house in order to pay bills. Recently pink slipped from his job, Joshua and Maddie sell their house, full of memories, and buying a condo.

Debbie is a psychologist at Safe in His Arms women's shelter. She's just been dumped and eating ice cream at the beginning of the book.

Eventually, all of these characters' paths intersect as their stories develop and histories are revealed.

Strobel is an excellent writer. She develops each character to the point where they become real to the reader. She weaves a story of abuse, grief, forgiveness, and grace. The book is strong in heart and writing. The story is different than the usual Christian style book. The issues are real and the conclusion a continuation of the journey.

I loved the book. I am very rarely impressed by Christian writers. They are very nearly always strong on ideals, heart, and good intentions but rarely does the story and characters resonate. This one is amazing. Strongly recommend.

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