Desert Song: A Novel

by Marilyn Arnold

Book by Arnold, Marilyn

180 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 1998

Reviews

[Juliekjewell · Rating 5 out of 5]

The only way to describe this story woven with colorful expressions and entwined with family relationships and religious beliefs is with the word "delicious" from cover to cover. The story follows a 30's something English professor from her youth in southern Utah to life in a university town in the Great Lakes area. The discovery of a possibly ancient treasure in a southern Utah slot canyon, family tragedy, illness and the loss of a friend cause her to question her rejection of the religion of her youth. The author, Marilyn Arnold, has a PhD in literature. Her descriptive images and unusual comparisons are an education in writing.

[Don Gubler · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the first chapter. But, then, the formula kicked in and the clichés and the moralizing. In the end it didn't seem like she came by her conversion quite as honestly as the girl I had hoped she was at the beginning. Isn't conversion something you should be able to embrace with joy and love and wonder?

[Jessie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not the book I thought it was going to be. I started out really liking it, but then it was a little forced. OK read.

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

it doesn't have a definitive ending which was a bummer. I'd like another sequel that ties up all the loose ends

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Delia is an academian living alone is Jefferson, Wisconsin. Her roots are in Southern Utah. I thought it interesting that she only returns home when she has to/or to hike the canyons. I was hoping to learn the reason why Delia stopped going to church or believing in God. But, I liked how the challenges in her life kick up the memories taking her back there. Also, the fact that wanting to be totally independent can be very lonely.

[Verona · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoy LDS fiction, and this is one of the finest examples of good LDS stories. Delia, the main character, I loved from the start, partly because she has my mother's name. She has lost her faith, and has come home to Southern Utah to hike the canyons. The story of her spiritual journey and awakening is an inspirational one.

[Gayle Viera · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this LDS Fiction, good plot and character development. Sequel Song of Hope very good also