A Spring of Joy

A friend recently gave me a new book to read and asked if I would consider reviewing it on my blog. Her mother wrote it. I said, “Yes,” but hesitantly, because, well, you know, what if I didn’t like it? What would I say? What would I do?

(Then I re-read it so I could write more in depth about it.)

Written by Sarah Byrd, and set in beautiful Cornwall, England, Finding the Way Home is a book about relationships, journeys, and how we all struggle to find peace and love in our lives.

The tone of the book is gentle and thought-provoking, and each character pulled me in. I found myself frustrated with Suzanne and Peter, wishing I could pick up and hold Blair to comfort her, and wanting to shake Ian and Jillian multiple times. When I read a book and the characters grab me, I know it’s good.

What grabbed me more was how much of myself I saw in Suzanne, the main character. She is a woman who is searching for who she really is, living for others, struggling through grief, and learning how to be loved. Then as I turned the pages, I saw myself in Peter and his struggles with guilt and forgiveness. When I read a book and can identify with the characters, I know it’s good.

It is no secret that I love books that make me think. While I would not put Finding the Way Home in the category of the “deep thinkers”, Sarah wove truth beautifully throughout the book and I had to stop and find my quote book to write thoughts down. When I read a book and have to grab my journal, I know it’s good.

Finding the Way Home is just a pleasant read, and if you’re looking for a book to curl up with as the leaves begin to fall and the fires begin to burn and the nights begin to chill, this should be on your list. Grab a blanket, a steamy mug of something delectable, and a plate of molasses cookies.

Oh, and grab this book for an enjoyable few hours of pleasant reading.

For you local folks, you can grab a copy at a book signing with Sarah Byrd here in town next Wednesday, October 20th from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. If you’re interested, comment below (or call me if you know my number) and I’ll email you with details.

Finding the Way Home can also be grabbed in print on Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.com, and can also be downloaded for either your Nook or Kindle.

Go ahead, friends, grab away! It’ll grab you back.