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Talking to the Dead: A Novel
Twenty-something Kate Davis can't seem to get this grieving widow thing right. She's supposed to put on a brave face and get on with her life, right? Instead she's camped out on her living room floor, unwashed, unkempt, and unable to sleep-because her husband Kevin keeps talking to her. Is she losing her mind? Kate's attempts to find the source of the voice she hears are both humorous and humiliating, as she turns first to an "eclectically spiritual" counselor, then a shrink with a bad toupee, a mean-spirited exorcist, and finally group therapy. There she meets Jack, the warmhearted, unconventional pastor of a ramshackle church, and at last the voice subsides. But when she stumbles upon a secret Kevin was keeping, Kate's fragile hold on the present threatens to implode under the weight of the past . and Kevin begins to shout. Will the voice ever stop? Kate must confront her grief to find the grace to go on, in this tender, quirky story about second chances.
384 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2009
49 people are currently reading
791 people want to read
About the author
Bonnie Grove
5 books75 followersBio
Bonnie Grove started writing when, as a teenager, her parents bought a typewriter (yes, during the age of dinosaurs), and she clacked out a terrible romance novel that her mom loved. She’s been turning out improving prose ever since.
Trained in counseling, and psychology, Bonnie developed social programs for families at risk, while landing newspaper articles and stories in anthologies.
Talking to the Dead came out of that crazy place inside her head that has more questions than answers. Questions about grief, love, sex, God, therapy, and how laughter makes everything okay–if only for a moment. The novel has won awards, and is published in languages she doesn’t speak.
Bonnie thinks in story, and continues to write novels–mostly because she’s too far gone to stop now. She has completed several since Talking to the Dead, and is currently working her butt off to ensure they make their way into your hands. Stay tuned!
Bonnie makes her home in Saskatchewan, Canada with her husband Steve, and their two children, and one dog.
Bonnie Grove started writing when, as a teenager, her parents bought a typewriter (yes, during the age of dinosaurs), and she clacked out a terrible romance novel that her mom loved. She’s been turning out improving prose ever since.
Trained in counseling, and psychology, Bonnie developed social programs for families at risk, while landing newspaper articles and stories in anthologies.
Talking to the Dead came out of that crazy place inside her head that has more questions than answers. Questions about grief, love, sex, God, therapy, and how laughter makes everything okay–if only for a moment. The novel has won awards, and is published in languages she doesn’t speak.
Bonnie thinks in story, and continues to write novels–mostly because she’s too far gone to stop now. She has completed several since Talking to the Dead, and is currently working her butt off to ensure they make their way into your hands. Stay tuned!
Bonnie makes her home in Saskatchewan, Canada with her husband Steve, and their two children, and one dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
February 15, 2009
It's early to post a review because this book isn't out yet, but I had the awesome opportunity to read it early for endorsement. I LOVED IT! The story opens with Kate grieving for her husband, who has just died. As she forces herself to go through the painful days that follow, something unusual happens. Her late husband begins talking to her. She worries (as anybody would) that she's losing her mind, but she misses him so much she doesn't want to do anything that will make him stop. Until... Okay, I'm not going to tell you anymore. You'll have to wait. But here's the endorsement I wrote:
"In Talking to the Dead, Bonnie Grove takes readers on a vivid journey through the memories of a woman grieving for her late husband. We’re drawn into Kate’s life, gripped by the slowly unfolding drama that unravels her sometimes painful past and, more importantly, reveals the key to her future. A captivating, powerful story. I highly recommend it."
Put this one on your "To Read" list.
"In Talking to the Dead, Bonnie Grove takes readers on a vivid journey through the memories of a woman grieving for her late husband. We’re drawn into Kate’s life, gripped by the slowly unfolding drama that unravels her sometimes painful past and, more importantly, reveals the key to her future. A captivating, powerful story. I highly recommend it."
Put this one on your "To Read" list.
January 5, 2015
Before I get into the review of this book I should fess up to some discomfort. I downloaded this thinking it was Women's Fiction and it passes as it until about 90% into the book, when the main character had a clear Transcendental experience with the "One True God" and the rest of the book was heavily Christian. Looking at the rest of the book through that religious lens also changed my interpretation of a lot of the previous events.
I say all of this because I'm ok with Women's Fiction, not so much with Christian fiction. I literally stuck my finger in my throat and made gagging sounds at my Kindle. I would not have read the book if I'd known where it was going. This is not a condemnation of the book, just an informative statement of genre classification. So, the rest of what I have to say should probably be taken with the above in mind.
My primary response to this book was, "I'm apparently not a nice enough person to read this." Now, acknowledging the religious bent of the book, I can understand that forgiveness is obviously supposed to be important and the book focuses solely on Kate's experience. BUT, and this is a big BUT for me, none of the characters who do her seriously wrong ever get their comeuppance. Hell, Kate never even says a cutting word toward them let alone does anything that leaves the reader feeling satisfied that the bad guys got what was coming to them. NONE!
Yeah, yeah, 'all things before god. It's not her place to pass judgement. She's a better person for not.' Bla, bla, bla. They got off too easy and I wanted to at least see them being told what shits they were...preferably in public, with significant and measurable consequences. Didn't happen.
The book is well written and I didn't really see any serious editing issues. And I did really like Jack and Maggie reminded me of someone I know and love in real life. I appreciated the representation of how easy it is to get trapped in the mental health system. I'm not even blind to the small kindnesses of the people who did Kate so wrong, giving their characters a bit of grey. (Too bad all those kindnesses were in response to situations they created and threw her unsuspectingly into.) So there is something worth praising here.
I just get stuck because the very things that are supposed to provide emotional satisfaction and closure for the reader (they are there for the right reader), mean nothing to me. Therefore, I'm left in the cold still waiting for a happy ending I'll never get because what I want to happen wouldn't be 'Christian.'
So, if you're the type of reader who likes to see a woman totally and unfairly destroyed by her corporeal life in order to accept God into her life, this is a must read. I'm not that reader. In fact, I tend to actively avoid such books. It's a shame I got sideswiped by this one.
I say all of this because I'm ok with Women's Fiction, not so much with Christian fiction. I literally stuck my finger in my throat and made gagging sounds at my Kindle. I would not have read the book if I'd known where it was going. This is not a condemnation of the book, just an informative statement of genre classification. So, the rest of what I have to say should probably be taken with the above in mind.
My primary response to this book was, "I'm apparently not a nice enough person to read this." Now, acknowledging the religious bent of the book, I can understand that forgiveness is obviously supposed to be important and the book focuses solely on Kate's experience. BUT, and this is a big BUT for me, none of the characters who do her seriously wrong ever get their comeuppance. Hell, Kate never even says a cutting word toward them let alone does anything that leaves the reader feeling satisfied that the bad guys got what was coming to them. NONE!
Yeah, yeah, 'all things before god. It's not her place to pass judgement. She's a better person for not.' Bla, bla, bla. They got off too easy and I wanted to at least see them being told what shits they were...preferably in public, with significant and measurable consequences. Didn't happen.
The book is well written and I didn't really see any serious editing issues. And I did really like Jack and Maggie reminded me of someone I know and love in real life. I appreciated the representation of how easy it is to get trapped in the mental health system. I'm not even blind to the small kindnesses of the people who did Kate so wrong, giving their characters a bit of grey. (Too bad all those kindnesses were in response to situations they created and threw her unsuspectingly into.) So there is something worth praising here.
I just get stuck because the very things that are supposed to provide emotional satisfaction and closure for the reader (they are there for the right reader), mean nothing to me. Therefore, I'm left in the cold still waiting for a happy ending I'll never get because what I want to happen wouldn't be 'Christian.'
So, if you're the type of reader who likes to see a woman totally and unfairly destroyed by her corporeal life in order to accept God into her life, this is a must read. I'm not that reader. In fact, I tend to actively avoid such books. It's a shame I got sideswiped by this one.
March 18, 2009
I read this book in two sittings. It was absolutely amazing. Talking to the Dead is making my best of 2009 fiction list for sure. The writing was so well done I'd never guess it was a debut novel. I loved how the author didn't hold back on any of the issues that the character Kate was dealing with. Plus, the ending made me smile and emit a satisfied sigh. I've read some other books dealing with pain and grief and none of them come close to being as good as this one. It almost reads like a suspense in that you find out a little bit more and a little bit more as the story moves along. More than once I found myself saying, "No way!" Yet it was totally believable. The way her mind dealt with the trauma, like when she watched that short video clip over and over was SO well done. I felt like I was Kate and I hurt right along with her. At the same time I rejoiced with her when things started turning around. The dialog was also done amazing as well. The honesty of the spiritual journey and the character's inner voice was fabulously done. And for people who don't know much about mental health issues, I loved how accurate and well done the story was. Clearly the author did her research in many areas. I can't say enough great things about this debut novel. If you don't buy any other books this year, get this one!
December 6, 2022
I found this to be an intressting read. This book explores the topic of grife.
Kate Davis is struggling after the death of her husband. Things become worse for her when she starts hearing his voice.
When her family and friends start to worry about her, she ends up in a treatment center. There, she joins group therapy an meets Jack.
I liked watching as Kate eventually started to open up to the group.
Also, I loved seeing Kate reconcile with her sister at the end.
A great Christian fiction novel exploring loss and trying to move on. 5 stars!!
Kate Davis is struggling after the death of her husband. Things become worse for her when she starts hearing his voice.
When her family and friends start to worry about her, she ends up in a treatment center. There, she joins group therapy an meets Jack.
I liked watching as Kate eventually started to open up to the group.
Also, I loved seeing Kate reconcile with her sister at the end.
A great Christian fiction novel exploring loss and trying to move on. 5 stars!!
August 14, 2019
I have a deep appreciation for the way this book was written- the imagery is down to earth and completely relatable. The anguish the protagonist goes through at times, is almost palpable. I wanted to help her. I won’t forget this story, and I won’t forget Kate. My problem is this is disguised as women’s fiction, but it seems to actually be a witnessing tool for Christianity- and it doesn’t really meet the mark for what it’s trying to accomplish. God comes to Kate in a way that won’t be understood by someone that hasn’t experienced God in an intimate way. I liked this book. I enjoyed reading it—I really don’t understand what the aim was. There was little to no mention of God in the first three quarters of the book, and then Boom! God’s there, and there’s a golden light, and Kate is all better. Maybe this was written for those that have already found God, or those that are struggling for understanding...I just don’t know.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2015
I really enjoyed this. It was in no way a profound life changing read but more like a comfort read. The characters and situations were written so that I felt at home while reading it. The plot twists were great...it was a nice story about a poor woman who had to learn to deal with the dark side of life. A grueling journey, but somehow Grove made it pleasant and inspiring. Leaves me wondering if she has other works I would be interested in...
January 9, 2010
A must read.
March 2, 2023
This book could have easily been a 4 star read if it wasn’t for the lame ass ending! This read like a Thriller 90% of the way through and I enjoyed it until the cringey “found god” ending. Perhaps its my fault I didn’t enjoy that type of ending as i didn’t realize the author “is a former program developer and trainer, who uses her passion for God and people to help others make significant changes in their lives.” ( According to Google) I just found the book at a thrift store and thought it sounded interesting. My rating still stands.
April 27, 2011
Sometimes a book comes along that’s so gripping and emotional that it leaves you wanting more and wishing you’d never opened the book, only so you can discover it once again. I never expected this book to say with me as it has.
In Talking to the Dead, Kate is a twenty-eight year old widow, her husband Kevin has just unexpectedly died and Kate can’t seem to cope. She can’t enter their bedroom and sleeps in the living room forgoing showering, eating, and life in general. Her family and friends are worried about her, but they’ll be even more worried once they find out that Kevin is talking to her. Not only is Kevin talking to her, but it seems Kate has lost some of her memories. Soon though, Kevin stops talking and begins to shout at her… saying things to her he has never said before.
When an eccentric older lady named Maggie pays Kate a visit and tells her she needs help, Kate dismisses her, but eventually takes her advice. Kate soon realizes though, that not just anyone can help her. She pays a visit to a handful of people before settling on a psychiatrist with a bad toupee and a support group. After meeting with the support group, she meets Jack, a pastor of a small and unusual church set up in the community center.
Just as things are starting to look up for Kate, she discovers a sercret her husband has kept and the betrayal of the people closest to her. Now Kate realizes, things can -and have- gotten worse.
Before Kate can move on with her life she must come to terms with the loss of her husband and the bitter betrayal he caused along with one of her closest friends and family.
I love how this is a Christian novel that shows how real life is. Not everyone starts out with a solid, total faith in God. And not every pastor out there in the world follows God’s word. We all stumble, fall, and in the end, we are not perfect. This isn’t a book about perfect people, set in a perfect story line. Real issues are discussed with a bit of humor added to the mix that gives the novel a balance that provides a smile in the middle of heartache.
I think even those who are not Christian can enjoy this novel.
In Talking to the Dead, Kate is a twenty-eight year old widow, her husband Kevin has just unexpectedly died and Kate can’t seem to cope. She can’t enter their bedroom and sleeps in the living room forgoing showering, eating, and life in general. Her family and friends are worried about her, but they’ll be even more worried once they find out that Kevin is talking to her. Not only is Kevin talking to her, but it seems Kate has lost some of her memories. Soon though, Kevin stops talking and begins to shout at her… saying things to her he has never said before.
When an eccentric older lady named Maggie pays Kate a visit and tells her she needs help, Kate dismisses her, but eventually takes her advice. Kate soon realizes though, that not just anyone can help her. She pays a visit to a handful of people before settling on a psychiatrist with a bad toupee and a support group. After meeting with the support group, she meets Jack, a pastor of a small and unusual church set up in the community center.
Just as things are starting to look up for Kate, she discovers a sercret her husband has kept and the betrayal of the people closest to her. Now Kate realizes, things can -and have- gotten worse.
Before Kate can move on with her life she must come to terms with the loss of her husband and the bitter betrayal he caused along with one of her closest friends and family.
I love how this is a Christian novel that shows how real life is. Not everyone starts out with a solid, total faith in God. And not every pastor out there in the world follows God’s word. We all stumble, fall, and in the end, we are not perfect. This isn’t a book about perfect people, set in a perfect story line. Real issues are discussed with a bit of humor added to the mix that gives the novel a balance that provides a smile in the middle of heartache.
I think even those who are not Christian can enjoy this novel.
September 2, 2009
Talking to the Dead
Bonnie Grove
2009
David C Cook
Fiction/Christian
Reviewed by Cindy Loven
Kate Davis is sinking! Fast! October had brought the drowning death of her father, and now Spring, has brought another tragedy. Her husband Kevin is suddenly dead. This is not how her life is supposed to be.
She truly thinks she may be going crazy. Even the professionals think she is going off the deep end. She is hearing Kevin talk to her. They keep characterizing her as hearing voices, but it is just Kevin's voice.
The scary thing is Kate has also lost her memory. Her journey to bring herself back to reality is a painful journey. Seeking professional help, and even Spiritual help, Kate finds that not all people serve God equally, or have a right view of God. Abused by a over zealous pastor, trying to cast out the “demon” within her, Kate is leery of all things connected with God.
Enter Pastor Jack, a wonderful man devoted to giving to inner city kids. His time, his love and his devotion to the kids of Glen Hills Community Center. He also has a church of 'sorts' that meets each Sunday at the Center. Most importantly, he is a friend, a friend determined to help her realize that God is not like what she has been presented, and determined to help her through this difficult time in her life.
Many surprises, even betrayals by family and friends along Kate's path to healing, make Bonnie Grove's novel a story that will touch your heart. When first considering this book for review, I was truly afraid it would be some sort of weird, supernatural story. You will be touched and moved by this story.
Bonnie Grove's first novel, will never strike you as a first novel. The story is amazing and well written. The depth of the story is amazing to me. The book ends with a Afterword Interview with Bonnie Grove, and a list of discussion questions for a book club or group discussion. Most definitely a book to share with friends. 368 pages $14.99 US
Bonnie Grove
2009
David C Cook
Fiction/Christian
Reviewed by Cindy Loven
Kate Davis is sinking! Fast! October had brought the drowning death of her father, and now Spring, has brought another tragedy. Her husband Kevin is suddenly dead. This is not how her life is supposed to be.
She truly thinks she may be going crazy. Even the professionals think she is going off the deep end. She is hearing Kevin talk to her. They keep characterizing her as hearing voices, but it is just Kevin's voice.
The scary thing is Kate has also lost her memory. Her journey to bring herself back to reality is a painful journey. Seeking professional help, and even Spiritual help, Kate finds that not all people serve God equally, or have a right view of God. Abused by a over zealous pastor, trying to cast out the “demon” within her, Kate is leery of all things connected with God.
Enter Pastor Jack, a wonderful man devoted to giving to inner city kids. His time, his love and his devotion to the kids of Glen Hills Community Center. He also has a church of 'sorts' that meets each Sunday at the Center. Most importantly, he is a friend, a friend determined to help her realize that God is not like what she has been presented, and determined to help her through this difficult time in her life.
Many surprises, even betrayals by family and friends along Kate's path to healing, make Bonnie Grove's novel a story that will touch your heart. When first considering this book for review, I was truly afraid it would be some sort of weird, supernatural story. You will be touched and moved by this story.
Bonnie Grove's first novel, will never strike you as a first novel. The story is amazing and well written. The depth of the story is amazing to me. The book ends with a Afterword Interview with Bonnie Grove, and a list of discussion questions for a book club or group discussion. Most definitely a book to share with friends. 368 pages $14.99 US
July 11, 2009
Kate Davis has just went through one of the most horrific experiences that anyone can go through...that is buring her husband. Kevin and Kate were married for five years. In that whole time, Kate loved Kevin. At times though it seemed like that was something not quite right about Kevin but nothing too serious enough to draw red flags for Kate.
Now that Kevin is gone, all Kate wants to do is be left alone. Kate may be depressed...what by sleeping on the floor, not shaving in weeks but she is not crazy...no matter how many conversations; she carries on with her dead husband. Kate's sister and mother try to help Kate get out of her slump. Kate acknowledges that she does need help but professional help, especially as she and Kevin have been commicating a lot. The counselor suggests Kate go to group therapy. There she meets Jack. Jack is a kind hearted soul.
Kate is starting to make progress. The only thng left for her to do, in order to move on with her life is that let Kevin go but will she be able to. Also how will Kate react when she learns her life with Kevin was built on lies?
This is the first novel I have read by this author. I thought Talking to the Dead was a very deep, thought-provoking story. This story reminded me of an updated version of the movie, The Sixth Sense but without the creepy elements. Bonnie Grove really gave her characters depth and diminsion. Kate started out kind of weak but as the story progressed you could see she grow into a strong woman. I got to know Kevin and what type of man he was, because Kate would flash back to the past and the present. I don't know if Bonnie's goal was to make me hate Kevin but if it was then she did her job. I couldn't stand Kevin and felt that Kate is better off without him. Talking to the Dead is a good read.
Now that Kevin is gone, all Kate wants to do is be left alone. Kate may be depressed...what by sleeping on the floor, not shaving in weeks but she is not crazy...no matter how many conversations; she carries on with her dead husband. Kate's sister and mother try to help Kate get out of her slump. Kate acknowledges that she does need help but professional help, especially as she and Kevin have been commicating a lot. The counselor suggests Kate go to group therapy. There she meets Jack. Jack is a kind hearted soul.
Kate is starting to make progress. The only thng left for her to do, in order to move on with her life is that let Kevin go but will she be able to. Also how will Kate react when she learns her life with Kevin was built on lies?
This is the first novel I have read by this author. I thought Talking to the Dead was a very deep, thought-provoking story. This story reminded me of an updated version of the movie, The Sixth Sense but without the creepy elements. Bonnie Grove really gave her characters depth and diminsion. Kate started out kind of weak but as the story progressed you could see she grow into a strong woman. I got to know Kevin and what type of man he was, because Kate would flash back to the past and the present. I don't know if Bonnie's goal was to make me hate Kevin but if it was then she did her job. I couldn't stand Kevin and felt that Kate is better off without him. Talking to the Dead is a good read.
June 24, 2009
Talking to the Dead by Bonnie Grove is full of surprises for its readers. Kate Davis' life has shattered in the unexpected death of her husband Kevin. She can't eat or sleep or even go up the stairs to their bedroom. Her friends and family are worried about her, but they'd worry even more if they knew that Kevin was talking to Kate. She finds great comfort in the words of the man she loved with her whole being, and it seems to be helping her ability to grieve, at least at first. When I first read the description of this book, I was hooked. It sounded like a light-hearted and fun look at dealing with devastating grief. I expected a quick, fun read. Then Kevin stopped talking and started shouting, and Kate started recovering lost memories, and the book took a completely unexpected turn. Kate's quest to discover the source of his voice and then the truth behind his death lead her and the reader into dark places. The novel's sudden U-turn brings a great deal of depth and emotion to Kate and the story. I was completely blown away by Kate's journey and shocked that Grove never took the easy way out. There are no easy answers here, the bad guys don't get their just desserts, and Kate suffers unimaginably. Through it all, Grove somehow manages to keep a touch of humor so the story never gets too heavy or depressing. This is a stunning and in the end, amazingly beautiful novel of redemption and forgiveness.
August 7, 2009
“I hear dead people!” A newer version of the Sixth Sense? Not quite, but Bonnie Grove’s Talking to the Dead is close enough to give you the heebie jeebies. Kate Davis keeps hearing her dead husband Kevin’s voice. Is she going crazy or has Kevin come back to haunt her? But Kate Davis isn’t just hearing Kevin’s voice, she’s also uncovering secret things about him that she wished she hadn’t. How does she reconcile the husband she knew with the one she is now discovering?
This novel is intense, moving, heartbreaking, funny and a million other things! There is only one word for it - superb! Bonnie Grove has done a masterful job of showing us how easy it is for one to lose their grip on reality. I’m sure her experience in the psychological field helped in writing this novel and it shows. I can’t begin to tell you how many emotions I experienced while reading this book. If you have lost a loved one you’ll know that “feeling” as soon as you start reading.
While I’ve never experienced the depths of despair that Kate did, I believe that Bonnie has managed to give me a greater understanding on the fragility of the human mind. The love and support of family and friends is essential for those dealing with mental illness but the knowledge that there is One who knows and loves you makes recovery a blessed thing. When Kate discovers God in her healing it is so moving and tender I dare you not to cry!
Kudos to the author! Talking to the Dead will be talked about for a long time!
This novel is intense, moving, heartbreaking, funny and a million other things! There is only one word for it - superb! Bonnie Grove has done a masterful job of showing us how easy it is for one to lose their grip on reality. I’m sure her experience in the psychological field helped in writing this novel and it shows. I can’t begin to tell you how many emotions I experienced while reading this book. If you have lost a loved one you’ll know that “feeling” as soon as you start reading.
While I’ve never experienced the depths of despair that Kate did, I believe that Bonnie has managed to give me a greater understanding on the fragility of the human mind. The love and support of family and friends is essential for those dealing with mental illness but the knowledge that there is One who knows and loves you makes recovery a blessed thing. When Kate discovers God in her healing it is so moving and tender I dare you not to cry!
Kudos to the author! Talking to the Dead will be talked about for a long time!
August 8, 2009
Stunned, stunning, stuntabulous! Okay. The last was absolutely not a word, but Talking to the Dead a novel by Bonnie Grove is simply the kind of book that takes you places you never have been to before. Following Kate as she suffers the grief of her husband Kevin's death at such a young age is mesmerizing. Certainly, Kate's first response of quiet withdrawal makes perfect sense. How do you move on when the love of your life has died? But also how do you move on when there are pieces of your life that are also missing? Lastly, what do you do when you hear the voice of your dead husband clearly speaking to you?
The ride is amazing. I seriously did not know what direction Kate's story was going to take. Every detail and chapter led me closer to the conclusion, but I certainly was not sure of what that conclusion was. I LOVED THAT! I cannot tell you how often I have read a book and have completely figured out the ending. This doesn't always take away from a story, but it is sure nice to really be taken along for an adventurous ride. A ride that was sad, happy, frightening, thought provoking, and fully moving.
This is a book I thoroughly enjoyed with fresh characters from an author whose work I will now highly anticipate.
The ride is amazing. I seriously did not know what direction Kate's story was going to take. Every detail and chapter led me closer to the conclusion, but I certainly was not sure of what that conclusion was. I LOVED THAT! I cannot tell you how often I have read a book and have completely figured out the ending. This doesn't always take away from a story, but it is sure nice to really be taken along for an adventurous ride. A ride that was sad, happy, frightening, thought provoking, and fully moving.
This is a book I thoroughly enjoyed with fresh characters from an author whose work I will now highly anticipate.
May 16, 2024
This novel was well written and developed, with the reader gradually being fed bits of memories (in italics so the author didn't confuse the time thing), so feelings about the characters and what lead up to the current events keep evolving and changing as the heroine deals with her mourning process, which proved to be way more complicated than expected. My one big problem with the book was that the friendship between the sister and the hoe Donna REALLY didn't ring true. Unless sisters are already rivals or enemies, it has always been my experience that sisters become even more angry and have greater difficulty forgiving someone who hurts their loved one than the injured party does. (I can be mean to my sister, but don't you even think about it if you value your face.) I also had trouble with the author throwing that unrealistic perfect romance. It moved the novel into a "chick lit" genre, and I personally would have prefer it stayed in the literature genre and not have the romance junk detract from the heroine's heroic struggles to raise herself out of her multiple traumas into creating a new life after widowhood.
March 9, 2013
This is a good book by a talented author. Excellent writing, great voice, and I'd call it women's fiction rather than Christian fiction. I will read this author again.
The events and drama from the halfway point to three-fourths mark cut my rating down to three stars but I never considered putting the book down. In fact, I read it in two sittings and would've read it in one if I hadn't needed to go to work.
You'll meet a few characters you'll despise. You'll figure out the secret long before the heroine does. You'll laugh at the clever turn of a phrase and bang your head against the wall over the betrayals. You'll thank God for your own caring sister. You'll be left wondering about some things and I'm still not sure if that's disappointing or wonderful.
*Edited while going through old reviews and noticing that this book did not really fit with the other three-stars. I find myself second-guessing myself and my reviews. I don't think I was fair to this book because the story line still sticks in my mind, months later.
The events and drama from the halfway point to three-fourths mark cut my rating down to three stars but I never considered putting the book down. In fact, I read it in two sittings and would've read it in one if I hadn't needed to go to work.
You'll meet a few characters you'll despise. You'll figure out the secret long before the heroine does. You'll laugh at the clever turn of a phrase and bang your head against the wall over the betrayals. You'll thank God for your own caring sister. You'll be left wondering about some things and I'm still not sure if that's disappointing or wonderful.
*Edited while going through old reviews and noticing that this book did not really fit with the other three-stars. I find myself second-guessing myself and my reviews. I don't think I was fair to this book because the story line still sticks in my mind, months later.
December 30, 2012
On the day after Kevin's funeral he begins talking to his widow, Kate. There seem to be huge gaps in Kate's memories of Kevin, but he isn't explaining himself. At first his comments are loving, but as time goes by, something seems off. With an already low grip on sanity, Kate camps out on her living room floor, rarely venturing upstairs, even to shower. Visits from her mother, a recent widow herself, and her sister raise more questions than they answer.
As Kevin becomes more persistent, Kate lashes out at those around her. There's no one she can trust, no one who can get behind the barriers she's erecting faster than she can blink, until she finds herself in a basketball game at a center for underprivileged youth, where a simple kid named Big Tim gets under her skin for the first time in forever.
Talking to the Dead is Bonnie Grove's debut novel. While it is about lies and secrets faced in a spiral of grief, it isn't ultimately a depressing book. Grove infuses the tale with compassion, humor, and hope. This is a book that will grab your heartstrings and not let go.
As Kevin becomes more persistent, Kate lashes out at those around her. There's no one she can trust, no one who can get behind the barriers she's erecting faster than she can blink, until she finds herself in a basketball game at a center for underprivileged youth, where a simple kid named Big Tim gets under her skin for the first time in forever.
Talking to the Dead is Bonnie Grove's debut novel. While it is about lies and secrets faced in a spiral of grief, it isn't ultimately a depressing book. Grove infuses the tale with compassion, humor, and hope. This is a book that will grab your heartstrings and not let go.
March 7, 2010
POWERFUL!!! I don't even know how to begin to review this book right now.. I ordered this book because my sister-in-law edited it, and RAVED about it.. but just before the book arrived, my husband left me. It took me 6 months before I was able to read this book about the loss of a husband.. Let me tell you, I wanted to throw it against the wall a few times, and almost stopped reading it entirely, because I was able to relate to the main character in a very painful way... I actually could pick out who each character in the book is in my life right now. But the more angry I got at the book, the harder it was to put down. I'm really glad I continued on.. Bonnie's novel has an incredible way of delivering hope. How appropriate that I should finish this book on March fourth.. Which is the mantra I had after reading this... "March forth."
April 17, 2012
1/31/12 - While the title of the book is relevant enough, it makes the novel sound more like a mystery than it really is. Basically, the story begins with the main character of Kate beginning to deal with the aftermath of the unexpected death of her husband. As a result of her hearing her husband's voice seemingly all around her, she begins to attempt to crawl out of her grief & seek help to find out whether or not she's crazy.
Overall, I liked the plotline. This was a quick & easy read, and it kept me interested enough to zip through it quickly. I did often want to take Kate's shoulders & shake her, and I felt the supporting characters were somewhat shallow (her sister, especially). I would've liked to see a little more development there, as I found myself asking questions that weren't ever answered.
Overall, I liked the plotline. This was a quick & easy read, and it kept me interested enough to zip through it quickly. I did often want to take Kate's shoulders & shake her, and I felt the supporting characters were somewhat shallow (her sister, especially). I would've liked to see a little more development there, as I found myself asking questions that weren't ever answered.
January 22, 2013
I didn't think this was Christian fiction until the very end. And I totally don't think people who are grieving are all mentally ill. There are plenty of people who have lost a spouse, parent, etc and are still "normal" and functioning. And we don't all inherit a bloody cash windfall, enabling us to not work the rest of our lives. And she hears her huband. So what? I hear my Grandma sometimes, who I never even met. Does that mean I need to be locked up and drugged? Certainly not. Anyone who has traveled grief's path, may not find this book....relatable. So you frump around your house for a month and can't sleep in your marital bedroom. So what? This book seems to put a time limit on grief. Not amused.
July 15, 2009
Talking to the Dead has the perfect balance of humour, suspense and grace. It’s quirky, surprising, and uplifting. With masterfully woven prose, Bonnie Grove had me cheering for Kate, laughing out loud at the exaggeration of the Reverend J. D. Slater, stomping my feet at the insensitivity of her sister Heather, and wiping tears away at the gentleness of Pastor Jack.
I don’t recommend starting to read this book unless you’ve got time to finish it in one sitting! You won’t want to read it any other way…it’s that captivating.
Count me in as the number-one-fan of Bonnie Grove. I can’t wait to read the next story!
I don’t recommend starting to read this book unless you’ve got time to finish it in one sitting! You won’t want to read it any other way…it’s that captivating.
Count me in as the number-one-fan of Bonnie Grove. I can’t wait to read the next story!
June 7, 2010
I will admit that when I realized the author was a Pastor's wife, I was a little hesitant about reading this book. I'm not a big fan of books getting all 'preachy' on me, and was prepared to chuck it at the first sign of that. It turns out I was pleasantly surprised by the story and enjoyed the book very much. The main character was very likeable and I found myself cheering her on and anxious to get to the end of the book and see how things turned out for her. The book definitely wants you to consider your relationship with God - but the author presents it in a tasteful way that didn't turn me off. Very enjoyable read.
June 26, 2009
Phew, this book certainly has it all. It made me laugh and cry as I journeyed with Kate on her search for someone or something to believe in, when all other relationships had failed. Trying to cope with her husband's death leads Kate to a myriad of 'helpful' people, including counseling sessions - some humorous, some painful. I felt her pain, anger and desperation which made me want to leap into the pages to fight Kate's battles with her. This, for me, means an A+ to Groves! A definitely recommended read!
June 25, 2009
I rated this book 3 stars because the author had me from the first page. She is a wonderful writer and I felt like I couldn't put the book down. However, (Ya, you knew that was coming) it was such a sad book. The main characters life was such a soap opera. Her husband dies, and she forgets all the things that happened before he died and then slowly she remembers all these awful things. Her mental health is questioned, her sister is a jerk. (sorry if you disagree) Just awful stuff. And now that I've ranted I really need a happy book.
April 29, 2010
I was really wanting a ghost story. I did not get one. I chose this book based on its description and that it had a really high Goodreads rating. I was truely disappointed. I did not find the characters appealing or even believable. I did read the book in its entirety, hoping for that magic moment where the story gets exciting and I can't put it down. This never happened for me. This kind of book is the only down-side to having a Kindle. I had to buy it for $9.99 instead of just renting it from the library.
August 13, 2010
This is some spankin' good writing. Generally I'm not a huge contemporary fiction fan, but Bonnie Grove sucked me in with her voice and style. A poignant story, Talking to the Dead is a tale primarily of grief, and the crazy things that can do to your head. The story ends on a happy note, though. In fact, I really liked the ending. Definitely a thumbs-up kind of read.
July 13, 2009
Lovely writing w/ a spunky main character who just happens to find herself talking to her dead husband. A journey through grief and the depths through which it can reach, but also redemptive and satisfying.
January 15, 2020
I gave it three stars because I read it in one day, which means I found it interesting. But there are so many unanswered questions and situations that are just so unbelievable (her sister Heather’s choice, for example).
May 16, 2019
So much feeling in this book.
About a woman whose husband dies, but she still hears him and thinks she might be crazy.
Kind of a mystery, the ending is so poignant and made me cry.
About a woman whose husband dies, but she still hears him and thinks she might be crazy.
Kind of a mystery, the ending is so poignant and made me cry.
May 16, 2017
This started out really well and I was hooked, but the last third of this book was disappointing
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