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In Broken Places
Shelby's life isn't glamorous, but it is predictable--and that's the way she likes it. A survivor of her father's violence, she has spent a lifetime creating a safe existence devoid of dependence. But her carefully managed world begins to break when, under staggering circumstances, she becomes a single mother to four-year-old Shayla. In a drastic attempt to escape her childhood's influence, Shelby moves to Germany, but she quickly discovers how intimately linked memory and healing are--and how honestly she must scrutinize her past in order to aspire to a richer future. As she juggles a new job, a new culture, a new daughter, and the attention of an enterprising man, Shelby's fresh start becomes a quest for the courage to be not only a survivor, but someone who prevails.
384 pages, Paperback
First published April 19, 2013
23 people are currently reading
711 people want to read
About the author
Michèle Phoenix
8 books285 followersRaised in France by a Canadian father and an American mother, Michèle is a mentor, writer, and speaker with a heart for Missionaries’ Kids. She taught for twenty years at Black Forest Academy (Germany) before launching her own ministry advocating for MKs and TCKs in 2011. She now travels globally to teach on topics related to this unique people group, consults with international families and organizations, writes articles about TCK joys and challenges for her blog, and hosts the Pondering Purple podcast. Michèle has written five traditionally published novels, as well as Flecks of Gold, a reflection on God and suffering that stems from her journeys through cancer. It is available only through her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
August 1, 2013
This book is hard to read. Not because it's not well written because it is. Not because the characters are boring because they aren't. Not because the plot is contrived because it's not.
It's hard to read because it tackles child abuse with open and often raw emotion. Shelby's still suffering from her father's abuse even though he's dead. In his will, he left her his child from his second wife. Fleeing to Germany to teach, Shelby takes the girl and together they find their way with the help of a patient man.
Although it's a tough read, it's a good read. The writing flows with ease between the past and the present, and while there are no "on the edge of your seat" scenes, it's a beautiful tale of a woman finding out how to not only survive but also to flourish.
Fans of Christian fiction will enjoy this novel. It's not a beach read, but it's an excellent read.
Its theme and compelling characters will stay with me long after I finish this review.
I was given this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts are my own.
It's hard to read because it tackles child abuse with open and often raw emotion. Shelby's still suffering from her father's abuse even though he's dead. In his will, he left her his child from his second wife. Fleeing to Germany to teach, Shelby takes the girl and together they find their way with the help of a patient man.
Although it's a tough read, it's a good read. The writing flows with ease between the past and the present, and while there are no "on the edge of your seat" scenes, it's a beautiful tale of a woman finding out how to not only survive but also to flourish.
Fans of Christian fiction will enjoy this novel. It's not a beach read, but it's an excellent read.
Its theme and compelling characters will stay with me long after I finish this review.
I was given this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts are my own.
August 27, 2013
I was very excited to read this after looking over all the 4 & 5 star reviews, but I have to say that I couldn't wait for it to end. I found it quite boring. Very disappointed.
September 22, 2024
WOW. What an incredibly heavy read. But so worth the reading. It really hits pretty hard in shedding light on the long term impacts of child abuse, and how the wounds and scars of abuse follow children and teenagers into adulthood. The story follows Shelby, through a pretty intense journey. With flashbacks of her childhood and abuse at the hands of her father. I absolutely and completely adored Shelbys relationship with her brother Trey, and found myself re reading bits sometimes because their relationship was just so precious. I also loved the faith based threads woven throughout such a dark and heavy story. There were times I had to take short breaks after reading the memories of abuse, but I always found myself eager to come back to the story because I just loved the characters so much. This story is intense but well done.
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December 23, 2015No rating because I couldn't read this. I'm sure it's a good book but I found too many memories coming into my mind and too many tears falling. I chose not to read any more of it because I didn't want to go there right now.
October 20, 2013
I liked parts of it. The sarcasm took away from the story. I felt I was told too much and not allowed to fill in the blanks as a reader.
June 29, 2022
This was my first read by Michele Phoenix. It was definitely a powerful read focusing on the long-lasting effects of child abuse on a person and how those effects can cripple a person's emotional maturity.
In this novel, the main character, Shelby Davis, was the victim of child abuse by her father. Although her abuse mostly took the verbal and emotional form, it was devastating for her and made her afraid to take risks in allowing herself to love and be loved by others. Her brother, Trey, is another important character in the book. He was not only verbally and emotionally abused but physically abused as well. His personality is different from that of Shelby, however, He sinks further in his depression over the emotional affects of his abuse, but finds his way back to making a new life for himself. He is also a strong support for Shelby. I found Trey to be far ahead of Shelby in his maturity.
In her mid-thirties, Shelby suddenly finds that she has a 4 year old half sister and that her father has requested in his will that she become Shayla's legal guardian. She had not seen her father in many years after he left their family when she was a teenager. She doesn't want to do it and have this abiding link to her father. However, she finally agrees to it and then takes a job of teaching at a boarding school for missionary kids in Germany.
The rest of the story tells about her adjustments to being a full-time mother, the growing closeness between her and Shayla, her adjustments to living in a foreign county, her directing a play at the school (something she has never done before) and the relationship that develops between her and Scott, a coach and fellow teacher at the school.
Although I thought the story was a powerful one, I felt the author's writing style was laborious at times---using too many words and descriptions were a few words would have sufficed well enough. She is obviously a fan of similes, metaphors and idioms because they are used frequently in her descriptions. I grew tired of them. I also found the main character's sarcasm took away from my enjoyment of the story.
There is a very meaningful spiritual message in the book about God using suffering in people's lives. I also enjoyed all the references to C.S. Lewis and the love between him and his wife.
In this novel, the main character, Shelby Davis, was the victim of child abuse by her father. Although her abuse mostly took the verbal and emotional form, it was devastating for her and made her afraid to take risks in allowing herself to love and be loved by others. Her brother, Trey, is another important character in the book. He was not only verbally and emotionally abused but physically abused as well. His personality is different from that of Shelby, however, He sinks further in his depression over the emotional affects of his abuse, but finds his way back to making a new life for himself. He is also a strong support for Shelby. I found Trey to be far ahead of Shelby in his maturity.
In her mid-thirties, Shelby suddenly finds that she has a 4 year old half sister and that her father has requested in his will that she become Shayla's legal guardian. She had not seen her father in many years after he left their family when she was a teenager. She doesn't want to do it and have this abiding link to her father. However, she finally agrees to it and then takes a job of teaching at a boarding school for missionary kids in Germany.
The rest of the story tells about her adjustments to being a full-time mother, the growing closeness between her and Shayla, her adjustments to living in a foreign county, her directing a play at the school (something she has never done before) and the relationship that develops between her and Scott, a coach and fellow teacher at the school.
Although I thought the story was a powerful one, I felt the author's writing style was laborious at times---using too many words and descriptions were a few words would have sufficed well enough. She is obviously a fan of similes, metaphors and idioms because they are used frequently in her descriptions. I grew tired of them. I also found the main character's sarcasm took away from my enjoyment of the story.
There is a very meaningful spiritual message in the book about God using suffering in people's lives. I also enjoyed all the references to C.S. Lewis and the love between him and his wife.
September 14, 2019
Michele Phoenix is such a gifted writer. She draws you into the story from the beginning with her gift of prose and keeps you in it with her ability to make you feel what the characters are (she's) feeling. The story is witty, inspirational, great world-building, unpredictable, original, and haunting all at the same time. I loved her use of quotes from "Shadowlands" about the life of C. S. Lewis. They added much to the depth of the story while still keeping true to the story. It is also a great book for anyone who has suffered physical and mental abuse from a parent. She is speaking from the heart because she is a survivor.
September 15, 2017
Well wrought characters and a strong plot make this a very good book. Written in first person in the voice of Shelby, she unexpectedly "inherits" a little girl named Shayla and the situation is fraught with complications. She is in culture shock because together they move to Germany where she is going to teach. Her prime responsibility it to put together a play from the C. S. Lewis book, MERE CHRISTIANITY. As she gets acclimated to Germany and her students she also gradually falls in love. Flashbacks are written in italics. We learn how Shelby's brother Trey, now a famous chef, was and is her strength in defying the abuses they lived through from their father. There are Christian overtones to the book but not overkill. So much of Shelby's self talk seemed very, very real!
March 26, 2013
“What’s your favorite book?… You probably loaned it out. You probably wish you were the person who hadn’t read it yet so you could experience it all over again.” This is a quote from a movie, but it perfectly captures how I feel about ‘In Broken Places’! I want to loan it out to everyone I know, but I also wish I hadn’t read it yet so that I could be the one experiencing it all over again.
After finishing my advanced copy of “In Broken Places” by Michele Phoenix I simply sat and held the book in my hands for a long time. Part of me was willing it to go on, because I just didn’t want to part with the characters yet. Another part of me just felt at rest and encouraged. Filled up. I waited for the right words to come to write this review, but I don't think they will come so I will do my best! Phoenix was able to effortlessly (it seems) deal with very deep issues of abuse and pain, bringing about a story of redemption and acceptance!! Wow! It is a healing balm for anyone whose past hurts, fears or failures seek to define them. The message of hope and love is so true and believable primarily because of the way she wove the stories of these very real, raw and lovable characters together! It's really a masterpiece of a puzzle and the pieces fit perfectly into something that touches deep parts of the soul.
The story focuses on the main character Shelby. Shelby is haunted by a childhood riddled with emotional and physical abuse inflicted upon her, and her brother, by their father. After being estranged from her father for much of her life she is thrown back into the turmoil of his grip through memory when she becomes the guardian of a 4 year old girl, Shayla. Shayla and Shelby begin their new life together by moving across the Ocean to a small town in Germany. There, they meet some lovable characters who support these two as they adjust to the turbulence that life has thrown at them.
Phoenix’s book goes back and forth between past and present. The present stress of Shelby’s life has brought up the ghost of her past that she has been running from and she must now face it head on. The abuse inflicted on her by her father has shaped her present relationships, trust, and courage. She must overcome (or be defeated by) the fears that haunt her from the past, so that she can accept the love that so many in her life wish to give to her.
I firmly believe that anyone reading this book can identify with the fears of being overcome by something from our past. It’s part of the human condition. This book is a salve: to soothe or heal, to ease the distress or agitation that each of us carries because of our past. Phoenix’s book is imbedded with a message of hope- find it for yourself!
After finishing my advanced copy of “In Broken Places” by Michele Phoenix I simply sat and held the book in my hands for a long time. Part of me was willing it to go on, because I just didn’t want to part with the characters yet. Another part of me just felt at rest and encouraged. Filled up. I waited for the right words to come to write this review, but I don't think they will come so I will do my best! Phoenix was able to effortlessly (it seems) deal with very deep issues of abuse and pain, bringing about a story of redemption and acceptance!! Wow! It is a healing balm for anyone whose past hurts, fears or failures seek to define them. The message of hope and love is so true and believable primarily because of the way she wove the stories of these very real, raw and lovable characters together! It's really a masterpiece of a puzzle and the pieces fit perfectly into something that touches deep parts of the soul.
The story focuses on the main character Shelby. Shelby is haunted by a childhood riddled with emotional and physical abuse inflicted upon her, and her brother, by their father. After being estranged from her father for much of her life she is thrown back into the turmoil of his grip through memory when she becomes the guardian of a 4 year old girl, Shayla. Shayla and Shelby begin their new life together by moving across the Ocean to a small town in Germany. There, they meet some lovable characters who support these two as they adjust to the turbulence that life has thrown at them.
Phoenix’s book goes back and forth between past and present. The present stress of Shelby’s life has brought up the ghost of her past that she has been running from and she must now face it head on. The abuse inflicted on her by her father has shaped her present relationships, trust, and courage. She must overcome (or be defeated by) the fears that haunt her from the past, so that she can accept the love that so many in her life wish to give to her.
I firmly believe that anyone reading this book can identify with the fears of being overcome by something from our past. It’s part of the human condition. This book is a salve: to soothe or heal, to ease the distress or agitation that each of us carries because of our past. Phoenix’s book is imbedded with a message of hope- find it for yourself!
June 18, 2014
I read this book because it is the first selection of the "You Pick" Book Club from Midday Connection, a radio show on the Moody Radio network. The theme of this book is the insidious nature of child abuse, and how adult children of an abuser carry the scars into their future relationships. In this case, it was mostly emotional abuse, but crossing the line into physical abuse. Emotional abuse is something that touches so many people, and is mostly never talked about. I found this book difficult in some sections because the father's abuse was just horrible, but left no scars.
As for the plot line and setting, I wasn't thrilled with the German backdrop, and found the storyline predictable, but this is the experience of many people in the church, and in that way, it's an important topic. I found the writing laborious in the overuse of idioms, in seemingly ridiculous places, but all in all, it was a good summer read
As for the plot line and setting, I wasn't thrilled with the German backdrop, and found the storyline predictable, but this is the experience of many people in the church, and in that way, it's an important topic. I found the writing laborious in the overuse of idioms, in seemingly ridiculous places, but all in all, it was a good summer read
March 22, 2019
I don’t know Michele, but she writes like she knows me... “I’d learned long ago that the good stuff was infinitely harder to come up with than the bad stuff.” This is only the second book by Michele Phoenix that I have read. Both were well written, got my full attention right from the beginning and her characters definitely caused a reaction! I will be putting all of her books on my shelf.
July 1, 2019
I don't read a lot of 5 star books, but this was certainly one of them. A tale of three siblings, seeking to find themselves, despite horrific abuse from their father, healing is the theme.
This is a women's fiction book, but I would say it would interest both men and women. The writing is excellent, giving you clear flashbacks into the childhood of the now adults and letting you see why they are what they are.
This is a women's fiction book, but I would say it would interest both men and women. The writing is excellent, giving you clear flashbacks into the childhood of the now adults and letting you see why they are what they are.
June 28, 2019
There are certain circumstances in life when a person fells so alone, not good enough, betrayed and with drawn. Feelings of insecurities and trials that no one should have to go through. There is complete healing in Jesus and with time, and devoted friends all things are possible. I so enjoyed reading this book and I am looking forward to reading more by this author.
June 20, 2023
I found this book well written but a bit dark. It was sad that Shelby had such a hard time living a real life due to being abused and seeing the abuse of her brother by their father. I did wonder how the brother dealt with it besides work. There is no detail of him having relationships. I also wondered if Scott and Shelby eventually have a happy life. I have to assume they do!
June 2, 2017
A bit too saccharine for my taste. In spite of the damage done by an abusive father to a young woman's ability to love or believe she could be loved, all turns out well. A loving man, a child, and a brother break down the barrier of her fears.
January 12, 2018
Nice read.
January 1, 2019
One of the best books I’ve ever read. Relatable as it is real. A true reminder of God’s enduring love.
February 19, 2019
A story of healing from abuse, cultural shock and fear.
March 10, 2022
Hard to read in some parts, but there is hope throughout. The characters are developed so well you just have to read on to find out what happens.
April 11, 2022
Wow. This was a powerful read.
July 16, 2022
Personally i liked the writing style and the pacing. The plot development was also amazing
May 22, 2023
Actually 4.5. In the beginning I wasn’t so sure that this book was a good fit for me. But in the end I really did enjoy the whole story
April 29, 2013
I find that it's the easiest thing in the world to review a book I don't like. Weaknesses are quickly spotted by me and I'm more than ready to point them out, articulating and expounding on them. But when it's a book that I like, when it's a book that's incredibly well-written, when it's a book that really impacts me...I struggle. Because I can't find the right words to do it justice.
That's how I feel after reading Michele Pheonix's In Broken Places. Shelby, a woman with many scars for a severely abusive father and painful past, suddenly finds herself the guardian of Shayla, a four year old girl she didn't even know about until she was dropped into her lap by social workers. In the wake of this drastic life change, an even greater change happens – a move to Germany. There, Shelby wrestles with the pain of the past that seems to collide with the hope of a future, as well as a man determined to get past the barriers Shelby has placed protectively around her heart.
Let me first talk about Michele Pheonix's writing style. Because it's phenomenal. And I love it. Her style is down-to-earth, with a dry humor that just makes sense. Yet even in the midst of a casual writing style, you can't help but see the artistic craftsmanship involved. Each sentence feels almost like a work of written art. Prior to reading this book, I'd had the chance to read an excerpt from the first chapter, and it was the writing style itself that made me realize that this was a book that I really wanted to read.
There's also so much to be said for Michele Pheonix's ability to address some very weighty, even gripping, subjects yet not overload the reader with a sense of gloom. The experiences of the main character is woven into the story exceptionally well, leaving you fully engaged and “as one” with the character, yet excited for the redemption and hope that you know she will find.
I also have positive things to say about the amount of romantic tension in the story. The main character Shelby is persistently pursued by Scott, the hero of the book. The story is sweet, tender and very precious. But it’s not the “kissing-and-fingers-through-the-hair-can’t-catch-their-breath” brand of romance that is so popular with Christian romance fiction. The center stage falls on the actual relational aspects of what a “romance” is – learning to trust, to let go of past hurts, to know each other by doing life together. There’s not climactic tragedy where the heroine finds herself in peril for her life and the hero comes racing in to save her, ending with a swoon-worthy embrace. Nope. Thank heaven. There’s enough of those books on the market already. This one is realistic. Believable. Yet while still earning it’s place on the “romance fiction” shelf.
In summary? In Broken Places left me with a profound peace in knowing that God is very present even in life's most tragic and unfair circumstances. I'm encouraged to continue trusting Him, even in the times I feel like He's let me down. In the midst of witty humor, sweet romance and even bits about Germany's culture (quite fascinating!), In Broken Places boldly, yet gently confronts you with the very real Truth of God's love and power to heal. And that's really what Christian fiction should be all about.
I’d easily give this a 5 out of 5. And it's earned itself a place on my limited-space bookshelf, instead of being tossed into the cardboard box that is currently doubling as my tv stand.
This book was provided to me free of charge by Tyndale House publishers in exchange for an honest review.
That's how I feel after reading Michele Pheonix's In Broken Places. Shelby, a woman with many scars for a severely abusive father and painful past, suddenly finds herself the guardian of Shayla, a four year old girl she didn't even know about until she was dropped into her lap by social workers. In the wake of this drastic life change, an even greater change happens – a move to Germany. There, Shelby wrestles with the pain of the past that seems to collide with the hope of a future, as well as a man determined to get past the barriers Shelby has placed protectively around her heart.
Let me first talk about Michele Pheonix's writing style. Because it's phenomenal. And I love it. Her style is down-to-earth, with a dry humor that just makes sense. Yet even in the midst of a casual writing style, you can't help but see the artistic craftsmanship involved. Each sentence feels almost like a work of written art. Prior to reading this book, I'd had the chance to read an excerpt from the first chapter, and it was the writing style itself that made me realize that this was a book that I really wanted to read.
There's also so much to be said for Michele Pheonix's ability to address some very weighty, even gripping, subjects yet not overload the reader with a sense of gloom. The experiences of the main character is woven into the story exceptionally well, leaving you fully engaged and “as one” with the character, yet excited for the redemption and hope that you know she will find.
I also have positive things to say about the amount of romantic tension in the story. The main character Shelby is persistently pursued by Scott, the hero of the book. The story is sweet, tender and very precious. But it’s not the “kissing-and-fingers-through-the-hair-can’t-catch-their-breath” brand of romance that is so popular with Christian romance fiction. The center stage falls on the actual relational aspects of what a “romance” is – learning to trust, to let go of past hurts, to know each other by doing life together. There’s not climactic tragedy where the heroine finds herself in peril for her life and the hero comes racing in to save her, ending with a swoon-worthy embrace. Nope. Thank heaven. There’s enough of those books on the market already. This one is realistic. Believable. Yet while still earning it’s place on the “romance fiction” shelf.
In summary? In Broken Places left me with a profound peace in knowing that God is very present even in life's most tragic and unfair circumstances. I'm encouraged to continue trusting Him, even in the times I feel like He's let me down. In the midst of witty humor, sweet romance and even bits about Germany's culture (quite fascinating!), In Broken Places boldly, yet gently confronts you with the very real Truth of God's love and power to heal. And that's really what Christian fiction should be all about.
I’d easily give this a 5 out of 5. And it's earned itself a place on my limited-space bookshelf, instead of being tossed into the cardboard box that is currently doubling as my tv stand.
This book was provided to me free of charge by Tyndale House publishers in exchange for an honest review.
March 21, 2013
Loved, Loved, Loved!!!
As I finished the last couple of pages of “In Broken Places,” I wanted to cry. Not tears of sorrow, tears of joy! The book is a brilliant gift that brings its readers an understanding of how the Lord is in the heart of all His people. He meets us in our “woundedness, our brokenness, our daughterness, our betrayedness and our uncertain hopefulness.”
Michele Phoenix has an astonishing gift that truly is from the Lord! She speaks of being a Survivor, and it is evident in her characters. She brings them to life, and holds nothing back as the characters evolve in the story line.
Shelby and brother Trey grow up in an abusive home. Their father is a tyrant, yet their mother allows his behavior to continue until one day he takes it just too far. She throws him out and begins to mend the broken family. Only Shelby and Trey do not trust anymore, having developed their own coping skills, none of which is healthy!
Scarred and broken Shelby and Trey begin to figure life out as adults. In addition, just when Shelby feels she has reached some semblance of balance, wham…she receives the shock of her life. Her father has pasted and she is declared sole legal guardian of her father’s youngest child. Her past wounds from abuse fracture and expose her fragile “inner child” hence she struggles with the likelihood that she may not be a good mother figure.
Trey finds peace after a heartbreaking event, by means of trying to commit suicide. His recovery finds him longing to live the life he feels he finally deserves, hence opens a small French café.
Trey and Shelby bond even further as the story unfolds and begin to rely on one another like never before! Shelby has decided to choose a path that includes her half-sister, Shayla, moves to Germany to teach English at Black Forest Academy thus setting into motion a quest. She must learn to not only be a caring guardian, but also conquer the hurdles of a new country.
Can Shelby’s “inner child” be mended on this new quest? Will she discover that she is deserving of a life full of hopes and dreams? You will have to read this wonderful story to find out!!
Thank you Michele for allowing me to review your masterpiece... so I could write an honest review, this book was given to me by Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.
Rev. Lorrie J. Sims
As I finished the last couple of pages of “In Broken Places,” I wanted to cry. Not tears of sorrow, tears of joy! The book is a brilliant gift that brings its readers an understanding of how the Lord is in the heart of all His people. He meets us in our “woundedness, our brokenness, our daughterness, our betrayedness and our uncertain hopefulness.”
Michele Phoenix has an astonishing gift that truly is from the Lord! She speaks of being a Survivor, and it is evident in her characters. She brings them to life, and holds nothing back as the characters evolve in the story line.
Shelby and brother Trey grow up in an abusive home. Their father is a tyrant, yet their mother allows his behavior to continue until one day he takes it just too far. She throws him out and begins to mend the broken family. Only Shelby and Trey do not trust anymore, having developed their own coping skills, none of which is healthy!
Scarred and broken Shelby and Trey begin to figure life out as adults. In addition, just when Shelby feels she has reached some semblance of balance, wham…she receives the shock of her life. Her father has pasted and she is declared sole legal guardian of her father’s youngest child. Her past wounds from abuse fracture and expose her fragile “inner child” hence she struggles with the likelihood that she may not be a good mother figure.
Trey finds peace after a heartbreaking event, by means of trying to commit suicide. His recovery finds him longing to live the life he feels he finally deserves, hence opens a small French café.
Trey and Shelby bond even further as the story unfolds and begin to rely on one another like never before! Shelby has decided to choose a path that includes her half-sister, Shayla, moves to Germany to teach English at Black Forest Academy thus setting into motion a quest. She must learn to not only be a caring guardian, but also conquer the hurdles of a new country.
Can Shelby’s “inner child” be mended on this new quest? Will she discover that she is deserving of a life full of hopes and dreams? You will have to read this wonderful story to find out!!
Thank you Michele for allowing me to review your masterpiece... so I could write an honest review, this book was given to me by Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.
Rev. Lorrie J. Sims
October 14, 2013
This was a unique story and I loved the realism. As a social worker who has worked with dysfunctional families for a quarter of a century, there isn't much I haven't seen. There are so many adults in this world who are still a bit crippled by their past. Instead of responding to love, they run screaming in the other direction. Instead of bonding in normal, healthy relationships, they have a trauma bond with another victim who is usually a sibling.
I found the book quite deep and a fantastic way to show how God uses the most unlikely situations sometimes to heal people and open them up to genuine love. The catch is we still have to let the person in and keep fear out of the equation. So we have to cling to perfect love, which casts out all fear.
That said, I don't want to post any spoilers, so I won't give away the plot points. I will say this... I liked how the author went into the past and shared a little bit more of their childhood with each scene. The book was told from the heroine's point of view and never strayed.
The author used a lot of visceral emotion to describe feelings, which I loved. The author also did a cute job describing her heart and stomach and how they did ice skating moves in response to exciting and new emotions. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who is trying to understand the odd responses of people who were abused as children.
This book doesn't go into sexual abuse or gory details, but it does show the abject fear that children live with who have an angry, unpredictable parent and a passive one who doesn't know what to do to protect the children. It's very insightful and beautifully written. Bravo! I would definitely read other books by this author.
I found the book quite deep and a fantastic way to show how God uses the most unlikely situations sometimes to heal people and open them up to genuine love. The catch is we still have to let the person in and keep fear out of the equation. So we have to cling to perfect love, which casts out all fear.
That said, I don't want to post any spoilers, so I won't give away the plot points. I will say this... I liked how the author went into the past and shared a little bit more of their childhood with each scene. The book was told from the heroine's point of view and never strayed.
The author used a lot of visceral emotion to describe feelings, which I loved. The author also did a cute job describing her heart and stomach and how they did ice skating moves in response to exciting and new emotions. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who is trying to understand the odd responses of people who were abused as children.
This book doesn't go into sexual abuse or gory details, but it does show the abject fear that children live with who have an angry, unpredictable parent and a passive one who doesn't know what to do to protect the children. It's very insightful and beautifully written. Bravo! I would definitely read other books by this author.
June 2, 2013
In Broken Places is the first book I've read by Michele Phoenix. As I write this review, I cannot remember what about the summary drew me into choosing it, unless it was the words "she becomes a single mother of four-year-old Shayla. Having been a single mother, but through different circumstances, perhaps my empathy for single mothers everywhere called my name.
This book recently travelled with me via Amtrak across the country, and it made for a good read among other passengers, in busy dining and lounge cars, and when there was lots of starting and stopping. And that is thanks to the seamless writing used by its author.
At once, Phoenix drew me to a caring state of mind and heart for her characters. Shelby and her brother, Trey, had survived years of abuse at the hands of a father who then suddenly left the family. Together, they had shared a bond unbreakable. They thought he was out of their lives forever.
But an unimaginable surprise waited for Shelby when their father dies. Under his will, he leaves her something she doesn't know how to cope with, or for that matter know what to do with. This bequest ultimately changes her life and that of other people.
Her decision about this bequest takes her to Germany, a new teaching position, a handsome coach who wants nothing more than to get to know her better, and new-found friends who give her the support she needs. A story which restores hope and joy.
Here you must trust me: If you're looking for a poignant, fast-moving summer read, In Broken Places is for you. Michele Phoenix knows how to keep her readers engaged and moving toward that last page.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.
This book recently travelled with me via Amtrak across the country, and it made for a good read among other passengers, in busy dining and lounge cars, and when there was lots of starting and stopping. And that is thanks to the seamless writing used by its author.
At once, Phoenix drew me to a caring state of mind and heart for her characters. Shelby and her brother, Trey, had survived years of abuse at the hands of a father who then suddenly left the family. Together, they had shared a bond unbreakable. They thought he was out of their lives forever.
But an unimaginable surprise waited for Shelby when their father dies. Under his will, he leaves her something she doesn't know how to cope with, or for that matter know what to do with. This bequest ultimately changes her life and that of other people.
Her decision about this bequest takes her to Germany, a new teaching position, a handsome coach who wants nothing more than to get to know her better, and new-found friends who give her the support she needs. A story which restores hope and joy.
Here you must trust me: If you're looking for a poignant, fast-moving summer read, In Broken Places is for you. Michele Phoenix knows how to keep her readers engaged and moving toward that last page.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 24, 2013
Title: IN BROKEN PLACES
Author: Michele Phoenix
Publisher: Tyndale
May 2013
ISBN: 978-1-4143-6841-2
Genre: contemporary
Shelby’s life isn’t glamorous, but it is predictable—and that’s the way she likes it. A survivor of her father’s violence, she has spent a lifetime creating a safe existence devoid of dependence. But her carefully managed world begins to break when, under staggering circumstances, she becomes a single mother to four-year-old Shayla.
In a drastic attempt to escape her childhood’s influence, Shelby moves to Germany, but she quickly discovers how intimately linked memory and healing are—and how honestly she must scrutinize her past in order to aspire to a richer future. As she juggles a new job, a new culture, a new daughter, and the attention of an enterprising man, Shelby’s fresh start becomes a quest for the courage to be not only a survivor, but someone who prevails.
IN BROKEN PLACES is the first book I’ve read by Ms. Phoenix. The story is well-written, but heart-wrenching. It isn’t set all in modern times, alternating between Shelby’s childhood and the present day. A victim of child-abuse, Shelby is desperate to start over—when her brother dies, leaving her care-giver to his young daughter. Shelby moves to a new country to work in a mission school.
The book was hard to read at times, but it has good message, and is well-written. This is not a quick read, but one to be read slowly. It really gives you a heart for someone who is fighting demons not of their own making. $12.99. 368 pages. 3.5 stars
Author: Michele Phoenix
Publisher: Tyndale
May 2013
ISBN: 978-1-4143-6841-2
Genre: contemporary
Shelby’s life isn’t glamorous, but it is predictable—and that’s the way she likes it. A survivor of her father’s violence, she has spent a lifetime creating a safe existence devoid of dependence. But her carefully managed world begins to break when, under staggering circumstances, she becomes a single mother to four-year-old Shayla.
In a drastic attempt to escape her childhood’s influence, Shelby moves to Germany, but she quickly discovers how intimately linked memory and healing are—and how honestly she must scrutinize her past in order to aspire to a richer future. As she juggles a new job, a new culture, a new daughter, and the attention of an enterprising man, Shelby’s fresh start becomes a quest for the courage to be not only a survivor, but someone who prevails.
IN BROKEN PLACES is the first book I’ve read by Ms. Phoenix. The story is well-written, but heart-wrenching. It isn’t set all in modern times, alternating between Shelby’s childhood and the present day. A victim of child-abuse, Shelby is desperate to start over—when her brother dies, leaving her care-giver to his young daughter. Shelby moves to a new country to work in a mission school.
The book was hard to read at times, but it has good message, and is well-written. This is not a quick read, but one to be read slowly. It really gives you a heart for someone who is fighting demons not of their own making. $12.99. 368 pages. 3.5 stars
May 20, 2013
The main character, Shelby, possesses a pert voice, which after a time I found a bit wearing–but on the other hand, I believe that was the point. To protect herself from potentially painful relationships, Shelby has learned to hide behind snappy conversation–which demonstrates how harmful our devices of self-protection can become.
Overall, I felt the story could have used more layers of tension and suspense. The main suspenseful element at the start of the book was the question of Shayla’s father’s identity, what he meant to Shelby, and why adopting Shayla was such an onerous situation for Shelby. Once those questions were answered (within the first quarter of the book), I could guess how the rest of the story would unfold. And I was pretty much right, although I will say the author pulled off a particularly lovely last line.
However, I do love the heart of this story, the premise that restoration can spring from brokenness. With vivid flashbacks, in a unique setting, In Broken Places shows the devastating effects of child abuse, how those scars are not left behind in childhood but carried forward into life. That among the worst of its ravaging effects is a child-turned-adult’s inability to accept that she (or he) is lovely and lovable.
But In Broken Places reveals what can happen when brokenness confronts hope.
Thanks to Tyndale for providing me a copy to review. All opinions are mine.
Overall, I felt the story could have used more layers of tension and suspense. The main suspenseful element at the start of the book was the question of Shayla’s father’s identity, what he meant to Shelby, and why adopting Shayla was such an onerous situation for Shelby. Once those questions were answered (within the first quarter of the book), I could guess how the rest of the story would unfold. And I was pretty much right, although I will say the author pulled off a particularly lovely last line.
However, I do love the heart of this story, the premise that restoration can spring from brokenness. With vivid flashbacks, in a unique setting, In Broken Places shows the devastating effects of child abuse, how those scars are not left behind in childhood but carried forward into life. That among the worst of its ravaging effects is a child-turned-adult’s inability to accept that she (or he) is lovely and lovable.
But In Broken Places reveals what can happen when brokenness confronts hope.
Thanks to Tyndale for providing me a copy to review. All opinions are mine.
September 12, 2016
At the beginning of the book, the author quotes Ernest Hemingway about being "strong in the broken places" and that was a perfect summary of this story. This is about Shelby Davis' journey as a woman suffering from the lingering effects of her father's abuse. Even though her father left the family while she was a teenager, he continues to inform her life and her decisions. Ironically, it is through his act of placing a 4 year old in Shelby's care that starts her on the road to healing. There are flashbacks of the abuse inflicted on Shelby and her brother, Trey (as well as their coping skills to survive) interspersed with Shelby's present situations. I thought the author did such a realistic job of portraying, not only the abuse, but how children react---anger, ambivalence (hate/love the abuser), low self-esteem, fear, and guilt. The author really has a way with words, creating imagery that illuminates what's on the page. I was surprised at Shelby's wit---at times sarcastic, self-deprecating but funny--she banters well with her brother and her romantic interest, Scott (except for the occasional Scarlett O'Hara imitations). On a religious note, the author does include the topic of why God allows suffering, using C.S. Lewis (Shelby is directing a school play about C.S. Lewis and his love) but I think I would have liked to see how God was woven into Shelby's daily life. That's just my opinion and it didn't deter from this book. I'd definitely recommend this to anyone.
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