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My Mother's Chamomile
Desperate for the rains of mercy... Middle Main, Michigan has one stop light, one bakery, one hair salon...and one funeral home. The Eliot Family has assisted the grieving people in their town for over fifty years. After all those years of comforting others, they are the ones in need of mercy. Olga, the matriarch who fixes everything, is unable to cure what ails her precious daughter. She is forced to face her worst fears. How can she possibly trust God with Gretchen's life? A third generation mortician, Evelyn is tired of the isolation that comes with the territory of her unconventional occupation. Just when it seems she's met a man who understands her, she must deal with her mother's heartbreaking news. Always able to calm others and say just the right thing, she is now overwhelmed with helplessness as she watches Gretchen slip away. They are tasting only the drought of tragedy...where is the deluge of comfort God promises?
312 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
About the author
Susie Finkbeiner
10 books1,033 followersSusie Finkbeiner is the author of The All-American, All Manner of Things, and A Cup of Dust. She lives in West Michigan with her husband and three children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
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October 19, 2014All I'm saying is it's really strange to sit and read a book you wrote. Very, very strange.
February 20, 2014
Susie Finkbeiner pulled off what all writers want to achieve. She placed me, the reader, smack in the middle of the heart of each character. From the introspective matriarch of the family, Olga, to Evelyn who is just beginning the journey of her life. My Mother's Chamomile captured the personality of each character and gave us a peek at life through their eyes. The warmth of the family was endearing. A good book to read to ponder what are really the valuable things in life.
August 19, 2014
The most original piece of fiction I've read in years. My Mother's Chamomile is the contemporary tale of a family in the funeral director/mortician line of work. It is not sensational in any way, but it is so real it just might turn your heart inside out. This is one of those books that isn't just a good book, but an important book. It challenged and blessed me. I read it in two days.
March 6, 2015
"My Mother's Chamomile" is the depiction of a family of morticians in Middle Main, Michigan.. For 50 years the Eliots have assisted families through the most difficult stage of life..... death. Years of dealing with death and grief places them in a state of loneliness in the community. People are uncomfortable with thoughts of their own mortality. The Eliots exhibit a strong faith in God, and a powerful compassion for others. Their competence, sensitivity and quiet strength bring comfort to the families they serve.
Susie Finkbeiner has exhibited a depth of wisdom and sensitivity beyond her years in this remarkably written narrative of life and death, and the emotions that accompany the final phase of life. Her choice of words is poetic and evokes powerful emotions and poignancy. The book is written with tenderness and reverence, and qualities that project the intimacy of the death experience.
Much research went into the composition of this book. The author visited with funeral directors in order to gain the insight and integrity necessary to write so that the reader can absorb the process of life to finality, and the grief that follows. The progression of life through the Eliots is remarkably personal and tender. The members of this remarkable family are created with depth of perception for humanity. individualism and believability.
I read this book slowly in order to absorb the tenderness and compassion contained within, allowing myself to soak in the spirit of life, death and the aftermath of grief. I highly recommend this masterfully written novel. It is filled with spirituality, benevolence and empathy. I was so impressed with this book that I immediately read it again. Please pick up a copy of this book and allow yourself an opportunity to be swept into a world of love, the beauty of family, as well as the frailty of life.
Quote - "Out of the corner of my eye, a lanky chamomile flower danced in the wind. It grew up wild among the other flowers. Tall, green, spindly legs under heads of yellow and white."
Disclaimer: I purchased this book with no expectations for a review of any kind. All opinions stated are my own, and no compensation was received for this review.
Susie Finkbeiner has exhibited a depth of wisdom and sensitivity beyond her years in this remarkably written narrative of life and death, and the emotions that accompany the final phase of life. Her choice of words is poetic and evokes powerful emotions and poignancy. The book is written with tenderness and reverence, and qualities that project the intimacy of the death experience.
Much research went into the composition of this book. The author visited with funeral directors in order to gain the insight and integrity necessary to write so that the reader can absorb the process of life to finality, and the grief that follows. The progression of life through the Eliots is remarkably personal and tender. The members of this remarkable family are created with depth of perception for humanity. individualism and believability.
I read this book slowly in order to absorb the tenderness and compassion contained within, allowing myself to soak in the spirit of life, death and the aftermath of grief. I highly recommend this masterfully written novel. It is filled with spirituality, benevolence and empathy. I was so impressed with this book that I immediately read it again. Please pick up a copy of this book and allow yourself an opportunity to be swept into a world of love, the beauty of family, as well as the frailty of life.
Quote - "Out of the corner of my eye, a lanky chamomile flower danced in the wind. It grew up wild among the other flowers. Tall, green, spindly legs under heads of yellow and white."
Disclaimer: I purchased this book with no expectations for a review of any kind. All opinions stated are my own, and no compensation was received for this review.
March 5, 2014
“The courage to take a meager step some days exhausted me. But bravery could bring glory to my Lord. I just had to believe it.” ~Olga
The Eliot family owns a three-generation run funeral home. The mark of Christ-like love and grace they’ve made on their community is indelible. But, as often in the case of the most compassionate, they are overlooked because of the job they provide. Simply, no one wants to think about death and they make people think about it. Because of this, deep and lasting friendships are rare and dear. This is especially true for Evelyn, one of the granddaughters. She’s felt ostracized because of her family’s profession, and yet, chose to carry it on anyway. It's painfully difficult to face other's loss and pain, to face death, but the call she has to help other's and face her fears wins out. The vivid insights the reader gains through Olga (the grandmother) and Evelyn about the passage of our lives, and that final passage, are both touching and heart-wrenching. When tragedy strikes one of their own, the town reaches out to them and meets their needs, showering them with blessings and sympathy in times of deepest need.
Books don’t usually make me cry—but this one had me sobbing in empathy for the characters not once, but multiple times. The heartfelt reality of these characters struck deep chords—and as their hearts broke and healed, so did mine. Highly recommended!
The Eliot family owns a three-generation run funeral home. The mark of Christ-like love and grace they’ve made on their community is indelible. But, as often in the case of the most compassionate, they are overlooked because of the job they provide. Simply, no one wants to think about death and they make people think about it. Because of this, deep and lasting friendships are rare and dear. This is especially true for Evelyn, one of the granddaughters. She’s felt ostracized because of her family’s profession, and yet, chose to carry it on anyway. It's painfully difficult to face other's loss and pain, to face death, but the call she has to help other's and face her fears wins out. The vivid insights the reader gains through Olga (the grandmother) and Evelyn about the passage of our lives, and that final passage, are both touching and heart-wrenching. When tragedy strikes one of their own, the town reaches out to them and meets their needs, showering them with blessings and sympathy in times of deepest need.
Books don’t usually make me cry—but this one had me sobbing in empathy for the characters not once, but multiple times. The heartfelt reality of these characters struck deep chords—and as their hearts broke and healed, so did mine. Highly recommended!
November 22, 2019
This story is told, in alternating chapters, by Olga (the grandmother of the family) and Evelyn (the adult granddaughter). The author does an excellent job of distinguishing between the voices of the two women. There's never any doubt about who's telling their part of the family's story.
That aside, this is an absolutely wonderful book. Since it centers around a family who runs a funeral home, there are times when it would behoove the reader to have a box of tissues handy. Each death/funeral, though not a major plot point in the main story, is handled so beautifully by the author (and, therefore, the characters). Ms. Finkbeiner uses these moments to display caring and mercy in heart-breakingly beautiful ways.
I won't tell any of the story, because I think the reader needs to take that journey with this family. Suffice it to say, you won't regret a moment of it.
That aside, this is an absolutely wonderful book. Since it centers around a family who runs a funeral home, there are times when it would behoove the reader to have a box of tissues handy. Each death/funeral, though not a major plot point in the main story, is handled so beautifully by the author (and, therefore, the characters). Ms. Finkbeiner uses these moments to display caring and mercy in heart-breakingly beautiful ways.
I won't tell any of the story, because I think the reader needs to take that journey with this family. Suffice it to say, you won't regret a moment of it.
February 14, 2014
This story drew me in from the very beginning. I felt like a part of this family, a part of the story. Death is something we all want to push away and hope we won't have to face. Whether sudden or gradual, the loss of a loved one is extremely difficult. Susie Finkbeiner captures these emotions beautifully, helping us feel them along with the family...and acknowledging that we must face them ourselves. True and honest, My Mother's Chamomile is a thoughtfully written story of mercy, grief, and comfort.
May 27, 2014
I fell in love with these characters. I wanted to be a part of their family, pray for them, shared in their grief (a lot). These characters so beautifully written left a lasting imprint on my soul. I want to visit them, have some tea with them and see how they are doing.
February 20, 2014
Felt part of this very loving, Christian family. This book was thought provoking, humorous at times and so touching. Loved the portrayal of Olga & Clive’s relationship. Susie Finkbeiner wrote a very real book. Loved it!
August 14, 2019
Loved this book!
April 8, 2024
Not as good as others of hers. I didn’t like many of the characters. The funeral home family business aspect was interesting.
March 14, 2014
Susie's second novel is very different from her first but just as well written. Like her first novel her chapters are broken up by the two main characters, Olga and Evelyn. I love how you see the story from the two different characters point of view. I quickly got wrapped up into the lives of their family. Susie made the story seem so real to me and I empathized with the characters in their heartache. Yes, it is a Christian fiction novel but not to the point where a non Christian wouldn't enjoy it. The book is full of faith, love and hope which is what our lives as Christians should be like.
February 20, 2015
My Mother's Chamomile takes place in a unique setting, showing the interworkings of a family in a profession most of society misunderstands and ignores -- until we need them, and sooner or later we are all going to need them.
Aside from the amazing insight My Mother's Chamomile provides into the struggles and motivations of a funeral home family, it is also a love story, but not so much in the way you'd expect. Read it to discover a deeper love when a family who comes together in a time of need.
Aside from the amazing insight My Mother's Chamomile provides into the struggles and motivations of a funeral home family, it is also a love story, but not so much in the way you'd expect. Read it to discover a deeper love when a family who comes together in a time of need.
May 10, 2014
Beautifully written novel told from the views of Olga & Evelyn (grandmother & granddaughter) I love the deep love between Olga & Clive! Oh how they love each other even though they are 'old' it made me choke up just thinking about it! Definitely a must read book.
March 11, 2014
Wonderful and heartfelt
Wonderful and heartfelt
This is a true reflection of the journey through grief and I have experienced just that. I don't know how it could have been written without the grace of God. Sensitive and beautiful storytelling.
Wonderful and heartfelt
This is a true reflection of the journey through grief and I have experienced just that. I don't know how it could have been written without the grace of God. Sensitive and beautiful storytelling.
February 11, 2014
I became a part of this family. It wasn't as if I was peeking in as it does in some novels. I was right there, every moment, experiencing the love, comfort, heartache and joy.
March 5, 2014
A beautiful story about love. If you've ever lost someone this story will resonate with you. Thanks Susie for sharing it.
October 28, 2016
A story of grief and loss that is still filled with hope. This is a gorgeous narrative.
December 12, 2025
I am incredibly disappointed. I have really enjoyed this author's books before and so when I could not find My Mother's Camomile through the library, I thought I would purchase it.
Although the writing was lovely, one big thing really made me sad. I have been in a very similar situation, where my dad was dying of cancer. What he was going through was absolutely awful. But he never lost sight of the hope he had in Christ. We all knew, despite the difficulty of the circumstances, that God loved us, He was in control, we were not without hope.
God gave us peace.
We did need to work through all this, and there were definitely moments of anger and immense sadness. But God's peace and hope transcends that. So I was waiting, hoping the characters would turn to God in their suffering. I was so disappointed that, when Ev asks Will (the pastor guy) outright for some indication of hope, he just says, "I don't know".
But we do know! It is not a pat answer to give the hope of Scripture. It is truth.
From Lamentations, the book where there is so much anguish and crying out due to their city being sacked and their king killed and their children starving.... "the Lord's loving kindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Thy faithfulness."
Useless pastors who do not know or understand or live out Scripture are an absolute blight on literature haha. They of all people should be able to give some answers. Especially in a book that is labelled as Christian fiction.
Although the writing was lovely, one big thing really made me sad. I have been in a very similar situation, where my dad was dying of cancer. What he was going through was absolutely awful. But he never lost sight of the hope he had in Christ. We all knew, despite the difficulty of the circumstances, that God loved us, He was in control, we were not without hope.
God gave us peace.
We did need to work through all this, and there were definitely moments of anger and immense sadness. But God's peace and hope transcends that. So I was waiting, hoping the characters would turn to God in their suffering. I was so disappointed that, when Ev asks Will (the pastor guy) outright for some indication of hope, he just says, "I don't know".
But we do know! It is not a pat answer to give the hope of Scripture. It is truth.
From Lamentations, the book where there is so much anguish and crying out due to their city being sacked and their king killed and their children starving.... "the Lord's loving kindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is Thy faithfulness."
Useless pastors who do not know or understand or live out Scripture are an absolute blight on literature haha. They of all people should be able to give some answers. Especially in a book that is labelled as Christian fiction.
January 18, 2020
A wonderful story of family love, hope, and grief
One of my favorite snippet of the book was:
I’m sorry, I whispered. I shouldn’t have stayed away so long, Lord.
He’d forgiven me. I felt it like a hug.
The tears came so I couldn’t read the little words on my onionskin thin pages. My God didn’t smack me. He didn’t scream at me to wash the remorse and grief off my face. He gathered my tears. Held me in His arms. And He poured love all over me.
He filled me all the way up. I sure would need every drop I could get.
One of my favorite snippet of the book was:
I’m sorry, I whispered. I shouldn’t have stayed away so long, Lord.
He’d forgiven me. I felt it like a hug.
The tears came so I couldn’t read the little words on my onionskin thin pages. My God didn’t smack me. He didn’t scream at me to wash the remorse and grief off my face. He gathered my tears. Held me in His arms. And He poured love all over me.
He filled me all the way up. I sure would need every drop I could get.
November 15, 2019
Oh my, how do I even begin a review of one of the best books I have read in ages? I enjoyed the way the story was written in the perspective of two main characters. I enjoyed the family dynamics and the development of the characters. The story felt so real and I have to recommend having a box of tissues nearby. I think at one point, I let out a few sobs.
This is the first time I have read a book written by Susie Finkbeiner. It will definitely not be my last.
This is the first time I have read a book written by Susie Finkbeiner. It will definitely not be my last.
July 13, 2019
This book is amazing! It tells the story of a family who has run a funeral home for generations and you see the struggles they go through in that job and then once death hits their own family. It is told alternately between two of the family members. This book will make you think, make you cry, and show you how God is always with us no matter if times are good or bad.
May 10, 2023
One of those books that is so hard to read, but at the same time so good to read. This author has a gift for sharing a story that you get so lost in that you think you are a part of it! She allows you to enter the very painful bits of the story as well as the beautiful moments. Life is messy and hard and sometimes we need the reminder that in the midst of the bitter, the sweet water is there!
November 16, 2018
Well, I just finished Susie Finkbeiner's book My Mother's Chamomile and if you like to read a book that will have you bawling your eyes out (think Steel Magnolias), this book is for you. So well written. The characters are lovely. Wonderful job, Susie.
May 3, 2020
WONDERFUL STORY
This was such a good book. I know every person in this story!! I've met them during my life! It's wonderful how God is so present and how each family member is at a different place in their relationship with Him.
This was such a good book. I know every person in this story!! I've met them during my life! It's wonderful how God is so present and how each family member is at a different place in their relationship with Him.
June 17, 2020
My Mother's Chamomile started slowly, but I'm glad I stuck with it. Wow. After reading this, All Manner of Things, and Paint Chips, Susie Finkbeiner is officially on my list of favorite contemporary authors. Looking forward to the rest of her books.
January 14, 2020
Pollyanna for sure. Not even close to real life. Not even interesting.
September 27, 2022
A beautifully written story. My heart was touched in so many ways as I read about family saying goodbye to a beloved family member. Painful but so beautiful because of God's mercy and love.
October 15, 2023
I don’t think I’ve ever sobbed when reading a novel as I did with this one. It may take me some time to get over it. Lovely but heartbreaking.
October 1, 2025
Beautiful book about a life well lived and well loved. This book brings out ways to help a family when dealing with cancer and how to encourage them.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews