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Still Life
A tragic plane crash. One woman who lost her husband. Another who gave up her seat for him.
Adah spent her first twenty-five years with her family as part of a fringe religious sect. Her only contact with the outside world was through customers at their farm store. Then she met Julian, a photojournalist who'd come to document their lifestyle. They eloped mere days later and Adah was thrust into a completely new life as a wife, city-dweller, and an individual allowed to make her own decisions. But she has no idea who she is.
On her twenty-sixth birthday, Julian plans to fly home from an assignment to give her her first-ever birthday present. He's thrilled when Katherine Cramer gives up her seat so he can make the flight. But the plane crashes and everyone on board is killed, including Julian.
Adah is completely at a loss, with no friends and no marketable skills. When Julian's last photographs are published, her life errupts into chaos. She begins travelling--with Julian's camera for a companion--searching for answers to who she is and what she really wants.
Meanwhile, Katherine must live with the knowledge of "why "she gave up her seat--to extend her affair one more night. She recognizes her survival as a second chance to save her marriage. But is it too late?
When Adah's and Katherine's paths cross, they discover that there's still life ahead for both of them.
Adah spent her first twenty-five years with her family as part of a fringe religious sect. Her only contact with the outside world was through customers at their farm store. Then she met Julian, a photojournalist who'd come to document their lifestyle. They eloped mere days later and Adah was thrust into a completely new life as a wife, city-dweller, and an individual allowed to make her own decisions. But she has no idea who she is.
On her twenty-sixth birthday, Julian plans to fly home from an assignment to give her her first-ever birthday present. He's thrilled when Katherine Cramer gives up her seat so he can make the flight. But the plane crashes and everyone on board is killed, including Julian.
Adah is completely at a loss, with no friends and no marketable skills. When Julian's last photographs are published, her life errupts into chaos. She begins travelling--with Julian's camera for a companion--searching for answers to who she is and what she really wants.
Meanwhile, Katherine must live with the knowledge of "why "she gave up her seat--to extend her affair one more night. She recognizes her survival as a second chance to save her marriage. But is it too late?
When Adah's and Katherine's paths cross, they discover that there's still life ahead for both of them.
352 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2015
17 people are currently reading
692 people want to read
About the author
Christa Parrish
5 books117 followersChrista Parrish is the award-winning author of five novels and founder of Narratology, a fair trade non-profit social enterprise. She is also a homeschool parent, speaker, and editor. She is currently at work on her sixth - and seventh! - novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
March 17, 2015
I was a happy girl for the days I was reading this novel because this is what I love: Christian fiction that reads like mainstream, with all the gravitas, grit, and nuance that that entails, but without the profanity, without the sex-without-consequences, and with a healthy shot of hope for second chances.
I found Still Life to be a page-turner, and a masterfully constructed one at that. The set-up kept me asking questions, which in turn kept me turning those pages as swiftly as I could. For the first third of the novel, I asked how on earth Ada had come to be Julian’s wife. Somewhere in the middle I feared for Ada’s life and asked how she was going to escape the strong pull of her past. Then for the last third, I wondered how Ada was going to make it without Julian, and whether Katherine could possibly restore the wreck of her marriage and family, and whether both women could hope for a brighter tomorrow.
As in all her novels, Christa Parrish writes from the heart to the heart. Passages like this exchange between a kind pastor and a hurting boy darted beneath the surface to find resonance with my soul:
“There has to be a reason [Julian Goetz is dead.]”
“Oh, yes, there’s a reason. There are a million reasons. But none of them matter one single iota unless you can fall on Jesus, wrap your arms around his neck, and weep.
“I don’t know what that means.”
“It means…hope isn’t an explanation. It’s a person.”
One of the many reasons I like Parrish’s style is how she writes close to the earth, with very little gloss over what it means to be human. And she knows her characters to the core, imbuing them with astonishing grace and depth and originality. The more I read of this novel, the more I appreciated its title’s multi-faceted meaning, and when I turned the last page, I was satisfied.
Thanks to BookLook and Thomas Nelson for providing me a free copy to review. All opinions are mine.
I found Still Life to be a page-turner, and a masterfully constructed one at that. The set-up kept me asking questions, which in turn kept me turning those pages as swiftly as I could. For the first third of the novel, I asked how on earth Ada had come to be Julian’s wife. Somewhere in the middle I feared for Ada’s life and asked how she was going to escape the strong pull of her past. Then for the last third, I wondered how Ada was going to make it without Julian, and whether Katherine could possibly restore the wreck of her marriage and family, and whether both women could hope for a brighter tomorrow.
As in all her novels, Christa Parrish writes from the heart to the heart. Passages like this exchange between a kind pastor and a hurting boy darted beneath the surface to find resonance with my soul:
“There has to be a reason [Julian Goetz is dead.]”
“Oh, yes, there’s a reason. There are a million reasons. But none of them matter one single iota unless you can fall on Jesus, wrap your arms around his neck, and weep.
“I don’t know what that means.”
“It means…hope isn’t an explanation. It’s a person.”
One of the many reasons I like Parrish’s style is how she writes close to the earth, with very little gloss over what it means to be human. And she knows her characters to the core, imbuing them with astonishing grace and depth and originality. The more I read of this novel, the more I appreciated its title’s multi-faceted meaning, and when I turned the last page, I was satisfied.
Thanks to BookLook and Thomas Nelson for providing me a free copy to review. All opinions are mine.
January 1, 2015
4.5 stars! This book was a real conundrum for me on so many levels. A writing style I loathe but a storytelling power I couldn't ignore. Characters I didn't like but will never forget. An unflinching grittiness that shocked me almost as much as it humbled me. This story is definitely NOT for the faint of heart. It asks a lot of tough questions and doesn't necessarily answer them all. But one quote sums it all up for me: "Hope isn't an explanation. It's a Person." That is the journey Christa Parrish's characters begin in this gripping novel, and the journey she so beautifully challenges each of her readers to begin, too.
February 16, 2015
Loved this book. I'll have to read more by this author. I've been in a reading slump lately, putting books down after partially reading them, and not finding anything to really grab my interest. I have now given myself permission to read only those books that grab me in the first chapter. There are too many good books (like this one) to read to waste my time reading mediocre, or badly written books.
February 25, 2015
This story really drew me in. I didn't want to stop reading, and didn't take long to figure out that my overall impression would hinge on the final resolution of the plot. The question forming the main theme is something we've all tussled with and placed in the 'too hard' basket. Why do some people die prematurely, while others are spared, regardless of the apparent goodness of the person? It's such a biggie, I was intrigued to see what Christa Parrish would make of it.
The first part follows the lives of two female main characters in the aftermath of a fatal plane crash. The young widow, Ada, has to come to terms with the death of her husband, Julian, who was flying home to celebrate her birthday. Katherine is the woman who should have been on the plane, but offered him her seat, so she could spend time with her lover behind her husband's back. We later learn more about Julian himself, and also Katherine's teenage son, Evan, who had been born with a serious heart defect.
It's a perfect example of why I love reading and writing contemporary fiction. Apart from the crash itself, several characters had traumatic events in their pasts, but while not being glossed over, these were not the focal points. Ada's history in the cult headed by her extremist father, Katherine's decision to have an affair, Evan's heart problems. In spite of these, each of the characters come to a place where they are able to look forward to their futures with courage and hope. The book offers the hope that it can be the same for any of us.
It highlights the value of human life. How terrible that Ada lost Julian, but the alternative would have been that Katherine's teenage sons would have been left without a mother, and Will without a wife. I like the flashbacks to Julian's reflections about the value of his own life. Even though he was a famous, award-winning photographer, he sometimes felt inferior, believing that leaving a record of images on paper didn't help the world or save souls. However, what he came understand about the value of his work helped Evan, who had photography aspirations of his own.
What huge world news a commercial airline accident of that calibre would be, so I'm glad they are so rare. Although the story of how Ada and Julian came to be together may come across a little far-fetched, I've definitely read similar stories declared to be fact. The pilgrimage she undertakes after his death is rewarding to read about, and Ada possibly didn't even plumb all there was to know. Some of the habits she takes up, such as the personal photo blog, are simple things we can all do, and as several characters often remind us, we don't have to be Julian Goetz to appreciate the benefit.
I think the big question in the theme was addressed in the best way possible, and was glad to have read this novel.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for my review copy.
The first part follows the lives of two female main characters in the aftermath of a fatal plane crash. The young widow, Ada, has to come to terms with the death of her husband, Julian, who was flying home to celebrate her birthday. Katherine is the woman who should have been on the plane, but offered him her seat, so she could spend time with her lover behind her husband's back. We later learn more about Julian himself, and also Katherine's teenage son, Evan, who had been born with a serious heart defect.
It's a perfect example of why I love reading and writing contemporary fiction. Apart from the crash itself, several characters had traumatic events in their pasts, but while not being glossed over, these were not the focal points. Ada's history in the cult headed by her extremist father, Katherine's decision to have an affair, Evan's heart problems. In spite of these, each of the characters come to a place where they are able to look forward to their futures with courage and hope. The book offers the hope that it can be the same for any of us.
It highlights the value of human life. How terrible that Ada lost Julian, but the alternative would have been that Katherine's teenage sons would have been left without a mother, and Will without a wife. I like the flashbacks to Julian's reflections about the value of his own life. Even though he was a famous, award-winning photographer, he sometimes felt inferior, believing that leaving a record of images on paper didn't help the world or save souls. However, what he came understand about the value of his work helped Evan, who had photography aspirations of his own.
What huge world news a commercial airline accident of that calibre would be, so I'm glad they are so rare. Although the story of how Ada and Julian came to be together may come across a little far-fetched, I've definitely read similar stories declared to be fact. The pilgrimage she undertakes after his death is rewarding to read about, and Ada possibly didn't even plumb all there was to know. Some of the habits she takes up, such as the personal photo blog, are simple things we can all do, and as several characters often remind us, we don't have to be Julian Goetz to appreciate the benefit.
I think the big question in the theme was addressed in the best way possible, and was glad to have read this novel.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for my review copy.
January 25, 2015
Katherine Cramer is supposed to fly home to her husband and family, but her desire to have one more night with the man she's having an affair with leads her to give up her seat on their over-booked plane to world-famous photographer, Julian. When a tragic plane crash ensues, Katherine is left with guilt that she survived only because she was indulging in the forbidden. Julian's wife, Adah, finds herself adrift in the face of his loss, still trying to navigate a strange world she's only just been introduced to. Until marrying Julian, she was living in a fringe religious sect with her family, cut off from the ways of the world. In the face of pain and loss, both Katherine and Adah find themselves searching for meaning and for a way to move forward when the future seems so unclear.
"Still Life" is a beautifully written novel that surprised me at every turn, while gently nudging me towards the truth of what Jesus has done for each of us in offering us new hope for our lives. The characters portrayed in the pages of this book are truly like no other, as readers meet people who are human, people who've been abused, people who have found unexpected hope in the actions of Julian, who has sought to be the hands and feet of Christ. I loved the contrasts present in this book, as readers can witness what happens to a marriage when God is nowhere to be found, or can peer into the lives of those caught in a sect where God is only known as someone who is harsh and judgmental and devoid of grace. I often lament that character-driven plots can move too slowly to keep my attention - but this is not one of those books! The uniqueness of the characters, and the different perspectives used in the story, kept the pace flowing along, and I simply didn't want to put the book down! Christa Parrish has written some wonderfully unique stories, and I think this is one of my favourites so far.
I greatly enjoyed "Still Life" and I wish there were another story in the works that would allow us readers to connect with these characters again! I award this novel 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher, Thomas Nelson, and the Booklook program, for the purposes of this unbiased review.
"Still Life" is a beautifully written novel that surprised me at every turn, while gently nudging me towards the truth of what Jesus has done for each of us in offering us new hope for our lives. The characters portrayed in the pages of this book are truly like no other, as readers meet people who are human, people who've been abused, people who have found unexpected hope in the actions of Julian, who has sought to be the hands and feet of Christ. I loved the contrasts present in this book, as readers can witness what happens to a marriage when God is nowhere to be found, or can peer into the lives of those caught in a sect where God is only known as someone who is harsh and judgmental and devoid of grace. I often lament that character-driven plots can move too slowly to keep my attention - but this is not one of those books! The uniqueness of the characters, and the different perspectives used in the story, kept the pace flowing along, and I simply didn't want to put the book down! Christa Parrish has written some wonderfully unique stories, and I think this is one of my favourites so far.
I greatly enjoyed "Still Life" and I wish there were another story in the works that would allow us readers to connect with these characters again! I award this novel 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher, Thomas Nelson, and the Booklook program, for the purposes of this unbiased review.
July 8, 2015
The thing I look forward to when I read this authors’ books is to expect the unexpected situation and unique cast of characters. Christa is a deep thinker; no fluff in her books, which usually include a full range of emotions and depth that have surprised me and touched me to the core of my being just like this novel did.
Tears running down my cheeks as I read, my throat tight with emotion and feelings of hope started to well up inside of me for Ada and others like her who have just awakened to a whole new reality and have asked God some tough questions about their life experiences. My heart ached for young Evan and I smiled when he sat down and asked a Pastor why? “There has to be a reason.” He had to know.
“Oh, yes, there’s a reason, “He tells Evan. “There are a million reasons. But none of them matter one single iota unless you can fall on Jesus, wrap your arms around his neck, and weep.”
“I don’t know what that means. “
“It means hope isn't an explanation. It’s a person.”
Amen! Amen!
This book is written in four parts. The first is titled The Wreckage – author introduces Ada Mitchell and the lies she was taught were truth growing up. Then the woman becomes Ada Goetz, wife of Julian Goetz Pulitzer prize winning photographer. They’d been married 5 months, when the plane crashed, not time to know each other well. Life’s turned on end. Ada is trying to get her balance; courage to walk in this unfamiliar world and learn to breathe in the storm.
Then readers meet Katherine Walker. The plane crash shook her world up and truth sprinkled out. She couldn't do life like she had been. She couldn't live a lie. She’s been given a chance at life – she wants a do-over. She was going to make this time count.
Second part titled Julian Goetz – Flash Back to who Julian was and what he did before he got on the plane.
Third is titled Evan, who is the son of Katherine Walker– special needs boy with heart issues – flashes back to time spent in hospitals with his parents. Now seeks answers to tough questions.
Fourth is titled Chroma. Written first person in current time. Readers are brought up to speed with Ada and how she is coping after the funeral.
“Ada like a 4 year old, navigating this thing called death, with all its traditions and requirements. When someone passed away in her community, it’s a pine box and 4 men with pick axes and shovels digging a hole by night fall. How much more complicated it is here.”
This author does an excellent job in showing how our life’s count, and how we affect one another. God never meant for us to live it alone. If we stop and listen we can here God say (in the middle of turmoil like this cast is in) - follow me – I've got this!”
This is an emotionally charged story that gets under your skin and camps out in your heart with this authors’ unique story telling style. It’s uncomfortable and hard to read in parts (not sure what going to happen next) these two women Ada and Katherine come from very different worlds and have to make hard choices after the crash. The thing they had in common was how their encounter with Julian and his God profoundly changed them.
This is a haunting slice of life story everyone hopes they don’t have to experience. This novel deals with tough topics we don’t often talk about, spiritual abuse, chronically sick children, affairs, plane crash, forgiveness, death and permission to ask God hard questions even when there aren't answers. This book is edgy but clean in how they talk about the affair, the message pulls readers toward faith. This is done in a natural; non-pushy way.
This is a brilliant fascinating story, gritty, real and one that will captivate all your senses. I highly recommend this book for book clubs. The author has engaging discussion questions in the back. I highly recommend you read this book for fun. Clear out some time you’ll be up late reading this one. It’s a keeper!
Disclosure of Material Connection: #AD Sponsored by publisher.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network www.bookfun.org
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
Tears running down my cheeks as I read, my throat tight with emotion and feelings of hope started to well up inside of me for Ada and others like her who have just awakened to a whole new reality and have asked God some tough questions about their life experiences. My heart ached for young Evan and I smiled when he sat down and asked a Pastor why? “There has to be a reason.” He had to know.
“Oh, yes, there’s a reason, “He tells Evan. “There are a million reasons. But none of them matter one single iota unless you can fall on Jesus, wrap your arms around his neck, and weep.”
“I don’t know what that means. “
“It means hope isn't an explanation. It’s a person.”
Amen! Amen!
This book is written in four parts. The first is titled The Wreckage – author introduces Ada Mitchell and the lies she was taught were truth growing up. Then the woman becomes Ada Goetz, wife of Julian Goetz Pulitzer prize winning photographer. They’d been married 5 months, when the plane crashed, not time to know each other well. Life’s turned on end. Ada is trying to get her balance; courage to walk in this unfamiliar world and learn to breathe in the storm.
Then readers meet Katherine Walker. The plane crash shook her world up and truth sprinkled out. She couldn't do life like she had been. She couldn't live a lie. She’s been given a chance at life – she wants a do-over. She was going to make this time count.
Second part titled Julian Goetz – Flash Back to who Julian was and what he did before he got on the plane.
Third is titled Evan, who is the son of Katherine Walker– special needs boy with heart issues – flashes back to time spent in hospitals with his parents. Now seeks answers to tough questions.
Fourth is titled Chroma. Written first person in current time. Readers are brought up to speed with Ada and how she is coping after the funeral.
“Ada like a 4 year old, navigating this thing called death, with all its traditions and requirements. When someone passed away in her community, it’s a pine box and 4 men with pick axes and shovels digging a hole by night fall. How much more complicated it is here.”
This author does an excellent job in showing how our life’s count, and how we affect one another. God never meant for us to live it alone. If we stop and listen we can here God say (in the middle of turmoil like this cast is in) - follow me – I've got this!”
This is an emotionally charged story that gets under your skin and camps out in your heart with this authors’ unique story telling style. It’s uncomfortable and hard to read in parts (not sure what going to happen next) these two women Ada and Katherine come from very different worlds and have to make hard choices after the crash. The thing they had in common was how their encounter with Julian and his God profoundly changed them.
This is a haunting slice of life story everyone hopes they don’t have to experience. This novel deals with tough topics we don’t often talk about, spiritual abuse, chronically sick children, affairs, plane crash, forgiveness, death and permission to ask God hard questions even when there aren't answers. This book is edgy but clean in how they talk about the affair, the message pulls readers toward faith. This is done in a natural; non-pushy way.
This is a brilliant fascinating story, gritty, real and one that will captivate all your senses. I highly recommend this book for book clubs. The author has engaging discussion questions in the back. I highly recommend you read this book for fun. Clear out some time you’ll be up late reading this one. It’s a keeper!
Disclosure of Material Connection: #AD Sponsored by publisher.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network www.bookfun.org
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
January 20, 2015
4.5 stars.
Still Life is a poignant and captivating novel that is complex and riveting. It is a wonderfully written faith based story that does not shy away from difficult questions or sensitive subject matter. Christa Parrish takes her characters and readers on a beautiful journey of faith that is quite thought-provoking. While not all of the questions have answers, it is a very satisfying read that I absolutely loved and highly recommend.
Ada Goetz is unprepared for life in the aftermath of Julian's tragic death. Growing up in an ultraconservative religious cult where her father demanded unquestioning obedience, Ada is unable to make the simplest of decisions and she is very fearful of her new surroundings. Her first instinct is to return to the religious compound, but she quickly realizes she cannot return to such a restrictive and abusive life. Needing some type of purpose and direction, Ada heeds God's whisper and using her favorite photographs of Julian's as her guide, she sets out on a healing and life altering journey where she meets the people from those photos.
Katherine Cramer is stunned to learn that her selfish decision saved her life, but she is incredibly ashamed that she chose her lover over her family. Looking back on the events that contributed to the distance between her and her husband, Will, she decides to re-dedicate herself to her faltering marriage. Just as she and Will begin picking up the tattered pieces of their marriage, her secret is discovered and threatens to tear her family apart .
Katherine's son Evan feels the aftereffects of her affair most deeply. Born with a heart defect, Evan has been in and out of the hospital most of his young life. With the most of his health problems behind him, Katherine's experience brings to the forefront a question both he and his mother have struggled with in the past: why do some people survive while others in the same situation do not? Is their survival part of God's master plan? If so, what is their purpose? Evan turns to God for answers and when he learns of Katherine's connection to Julian (a photographer he greatly admires), he is determined to seek forgiveness for her mother's sins.
Part One of Still Life unfolds from Ada and Katherine's points of view. The chapters alternate between the two women and Ada's grief and fears are keenly felt. She is a very sympathetic character and while she at first feels a little unemotional and disconnected from Julian's death, once her past is revealed, it is much easier to understand her reactions. At first, Katherine's perspective does not exactly paint her in the most flattering light, but understanding all of the circumstances of her life does provide insight into what led to her affair. It does not excuse her decision but it does make her more human and easier to relate to.
Part Two of Still Life is an unexpected delight and provides readers with valuable background information about Julian, his career, his faith and his marriage to Ada. He is a genuinely kindhearted and truly selfless man and this makes his loss that much more tragic and senseless. This also adds another dimension to guilt that Katherine feels for her (perceived) role in his death.
Still Life is an outstanding novel that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with their faith. Christa Parrish has a unique writing style that is quite engaging but what makes her stand out in the genre is her honesty in dealing with tough subject matter. Her characters are not always likable, but they are true to life with realistic flaws and imperfections. The storyline is moving and while not all of the loose ends are wrapped up, the conclusion is hopeful. It is an overall captivating read that fans of Christian fiction do not want to miss.
Still Life is a poignant and captivating novel that is complex and riveting. It is a wonderfully written faith based story that does not shy away from difficult questions or sensitive subject matter. Christa Parrish takes her characters and readers on a beautiful journey of faith that is quite thought-provoking. While not all of the questions have answers, it is a very satisfying read that I absolutely loved and highly recommend.
Ada Goetz is unprepared for life in the aftermath of Julian's tragic death. Growing up in an ultraconservative religious cult where her father demanded unquestioning obedience, Ada is unable to make the simplest of decisions and she is very fearful of her new surroundings. Her first instinct is to return to the religious compound, but she quickly realizes she cannot return to such a restrictive and abusive life. Needing some type of purpose and direction, Ada heeds God's whisper and using her favorite photographs of Julian's as her guide, she sets out on a healing and life altering journey where she meets the people from those photos.
Katherine Cramer is stunned to learn that her selfish decision saved her life, but she is incredibly ashamed that she chose her lover over her family. Looking back on the events that contributed to the distance between her and her husband, Will, she decides to re-dedicate herself to her faltering marriage. Just as she and Will begin picking up the tattered pieces of their marriage, her secret is discovered and threatens to tear her family apart .
Katherine's son Evan feels the aftereffects of her affair most deeply. Born with a heart defect, Evan has been in and out of the hospital most of his young life. With the most of his health problems behind him, Katherine's experience brings to the forefront a question both he and his mother have struggled with in the past: why do some people survive while others in the same situation do not? Is their survival part of God's master plan? If so, what is their purpose? Evan turns to God for answers and when he learns of Katherine's connection to Julian (a photographer he greatly admires), he is determined to seek forgiveness for her mother's sins.
Part One of Still Life unfolds from Ada and Katherine's points of view. The chapters alternate between the two women and Ada's grief and fears are keenly felt. She is a very sympathetic character and while she at first feels a little unemotional and disconnected from Julian's death, once her past is revealed, it is much easier to understand her reactions. At first, Katherine's perspective does not exactly paint her in the most flattering light, but understanding all of the circumstances of her life does provide insight into what led to her affair. It does not excuse her decision but it does make her more human and easier to relate to.
Part Two of Still Life is an unexpected delight and provides readers with valuable background information about Julian, his career, his faith and his marriage to Ada. He is a genuinely kindhearted and truly selfless man and this makes his loss that much more tragic and senseless. This also adds another dimension to guilt that Katherine feels for her (perceived) role in his death.
Still Life is an outstanding novel that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with their faith. Christa Parrish has a unique writing style that is quite engaging but what makes her stand out in the genre is her honesty in dealing with tough subject matter. Her characters are not always likable, but they are true to life with realistic flaws and imperfections. The storyline is moving and while not all of the loose ends are wrapped up, the conclusion is hopeful. It is an overall captivating read that fans of Christian fiction do not want to miss.
January 17, 2015
Review also found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher Thomas Nelson via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The expected publication date is January 27th 2015.
I literally just set this book down and I am wondering if it is a good idea to pen my thoughts right away or if I should put some space between expressing my opinion. If I have to describe how I feel about it at this moment it would be frustrated.
The concept of the story was really good as it alternated between Adah and Katherine's stories. Both woman are living with the aftermath of a tragic accident. One as the wife left behind and the other as the woman who gave up her seat to someone else. Independently both stories were well written and interesting. I found myself particularly drawn to Adah's story.
Where the story went downhill for me was the overdose of religion and spirituality in this story. It sneaks up on you. Not really evident at first until it reaches the point that you want to skip pages so that it can get back to the plot. At first it was ok. Since Adah had essentially escaped from a "religious" cult it actually made sense and this aspect of her life interested me. By the second half of the book almost every character was referencing religious passages and to be honest it just didn't seem realistic. A fourteen year old boy who has never bothered with the bible doesn't all of a sudden start sharing it with others. Yes it can happen over time however it does not happen instantly
While I am not opposed to religion in the stories I read I do feel it has to be done a certain way. It can't be forced upon the reader and to be honest it felt forced in this story. It actually seemed surplus to the story in many ways and therefore made it distracting. If it would have been limited to Julien's beliefs It would have had a much larger impact.
So here I am conflicted. What essentially could have been a really compelling story ended up being a story that got lost with all of the surplus script. On the flip side it was a moving story about learning how to carry on after the loss of a loved one.
Fans of Christian fiction may enjoy this read and although I have read a lot of Christian fiction I simply found this a little too much for me. It just wasn't quite as advertised.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher Thomas Nelson via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The expected publication date is January 27th 2015.
I literally just set this book down and I am wondering if it is a good idea to pen my thoughts right away or if I should put some space between expressing my opinion. If I have to describe how I feel about it at this moment it would be frustrated.
The concept of the story was really good as it alternated between Adah and Katherine's stories. Both woman are living with the aftermath of a tragic accident. One as the wife left behind and the other as the woman who gave up her seat to someone else. Independently both stories were well written and interesting. I found myself particularly drawn to Adah's story.
Where the story went downhill for me was the overdose of religion and spirituality in this story. It sneaks up on you. Not really evident at first until it reaches the point that you want to skip pages so that it can get back to the plot. At first it was ok. Since Adah had essentially escaped from a "religious" cult it actually made sense and this aspect of her life interested me. By the second half of the book almost every character was referencing religious passages and to be honest it just didn't seem realistic. A fourteen year old boy who has never bothered with the bible doesn't all of a sudden start sharing it with others. Yes it can happen over time however it does not happen instantly
While I am not opposed to religion in the stories I read I do feel it has to be done a certain way. It can't be forced upon the reader and to be honest it felt forced in this story. It actually seemed surplus to the story in many ways and therefore made it distracting. If it would have been limited to Julien's beliefs It would have had a much larger impact.
So here I am conflicted. What essentially could have been a really compelling story ended up being a story that got lost with all of the surplus script. On the flip side it was a moving story about learning how to carry on after the loss of a loved one.
Fans of Christian fiction may enjoy this read and although I have read a lot of Christian fiction I simply found this a little too much for me. It just wasn't quite as advertised.
January 28, 2020
This book was a mixed bag for me. The tragedy with which it starts, a plane crash which kills all, among them Julian Goetz, a mulitple Pulitzer award winner and the person who connects the various main characters, ties them together in ways they don't at first know. He had been married for five months to Ada, whom he rescued from her father's abusive cult because he loved her. We see her grief, and in it her journey to learn more about the man she loved. This story line was not only poignant, difficult and at times breathtakingly beautiful, was the best part of the book. Through it and also a flashback section from Julian's POV, we also got to know Julian and so have even more reason to wish he had never got that seat on that plane.
Not so riveting, for me, was the storyline of Katherine, who wasn't nearly as easy to like, albeit some of the tragedy of her past gives you some empathy for her. Hers is a journey of guilt, since she only gave up her seat on the fateful flight in order to spend another night with her married lover, and she is forced to re-examine her priorities and what has happened to her broken, but still together marriage. It wasn't the affair that made me not like her, but more I just didn't connect well with her even though I could certainly see how things could have gone in the direction they did.
Evan, Katherine's younger son, was born with a bad heart and wasn't expected to make it. He has a passion for photography and a lifelong friend named Grace who is probably one of the best fictional examples of friends I have read about in some time, not perfect, but strong, caring, compassionate and there.
So some parts were a beautiful five, but some I slogged through at a 2 star level. Overall I liked this book, but it's not my favourite one so far by Parrish
Not so riveting, for me, was the storyline of Katherine, who wasn't nearly as easy to like, albeit some of the tragedy of her past gives you some empathy for her. Hers is a journey of guilt, since she only gave up her seat on the fateful flight in order to spend another night with her married lover, and she is forced to re-examine her priorities and what has happened to her broken, but still together marriage. It wasn't the affair that made me not like her, but more I just didn't connect well with her even though I could certainly see how things could have gone in the direction they did.
Evan, Katherine's younger son, was born with a bad heart and wasn't expected to make it. He has a passion for photography and a lifelong friend named Grace who is probably one of the best fictional examples of friends I have read about in some time, not perfect, but strong, caring, compassionate and there.
So some parts were a beautiful five, but some I slogged through at a 2 star level. Overall I liked this book, but it's not my favourite one so far by Parrish
June 11, 2022
Very impressed with this author!! Can’t wait to read more of her works!! I actually read this in 4 days, not one….
March 12, 2015
Thursday, March 12, 2015
Still Life by Christa Parrish, © 2015
An adventure to learn further of the one you love; bravely in the process Ada Goetz finds herself.
Marrying five months ago to leave for a new life. Now I am alone. How will I navigate a world I do not know? The last word I had from him is gone. He was coming home to me... my first-ever birthday celebration. On my twenty-sixth birthday, my husband dies coming home to me. What am I feeling? Numbness; seeing others, hearing them like through a tunnel. A time tunnel, never to return to me.
The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.
--Proverbs 18:10
Lost and apart, Ada shuffles through time, attempting to go back ~ but recognizing she must go forward.
We're all of us too busy and too focused on our own needs to look up and notice the desperation of others. Or the laughter. If someone looks at one of my photographs and his heart is awakened by what is framed there––grief, loss, joy, poverty, peace, illness, ignorance, fortitude, grace––then perhaps he'll be moved to respond when he comes face-to-face with those same things when passing his neighbor on the sidewalk in front of his own home.
--Ibid., 183
Do we have vision to see outside of ourselves? I think of the old Time magazine black-and-white photos during war time with the barbed wire strung every which way. Perspective. Seeing.
I love the depth of Christa Parrish's works. She is within and without ~ seeing with a heart that yearns, sees ~ despair, hidden joy, relaxed indifference. You will not walk away without remembering one character in particular, for they all are different ~ some clinging, others defiant and yet one searching for Truth that can only be found from the beginning, God. Shallowness is swallowed up in victory of discovery. I especially remember Stones for Bread, her first novel I read. You will find the titles have hidden meaning too ~ until they become rich with explosion of an aha moment of discovering the dual meaning that is life expounded so deftly, so unexplainably rich. To throw light on what before was dark and obscure, her characters grow. I also like how she writes from the perspective of each character, revealing the whole.
How our lives bump into another, unexpectedly. We may not even know or realize the extent of our presence, or lack of it. Julian Goetz did that to Evan Walker; met him without saying hello. In the depth of exchange, Julian did not know Evan knew him, deeply as a silent mentor by studying his work. Silently projecting, with a knowing eye for focus, for detail behind his eyes. Seeing the inside reflected on the face, that someone else likely would miss. The instant when real was glimpsed and then hidden again beneath a veneer of platitude, silence. Grimness that everything is okay; but it is not.
I am looking forward to her next novel. Her awareness bears listening to in a world void of hearing. Expansion of thought from the heart, melting an ocean of obscurity.
***Thank you to BookLook Bloggers for sending me a copy of Christa Parrish's novel, Still Life. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***
Still Life by Christa Parrish, © 2015
An adventure to learn further of the one you love; bravely in the process Ada Goetz finds herself.
Marrying five months ago to leave for a new life. Now I am alone. How will I navigate a world I do not know? The last word I had from him is gone. He was coming home to me... my first-ever birthday celebration. On my twenty-sixth birthday, my husband dies coming home to me. What am I feeling? Numbness; seeing others, hearing them like through a tunnel. A time tunnel, never to return to me.
The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.
--Proverbs 18:10
Lost and apart, Ada shuffles through time, attempting to go back ~ but recognizing she must go forward.
We're all of us too busy and too focused on our own needs to look up and notice the desperation of others. Or the laughter. If someone looks at one of my photographs and his heart is awakened by what is framed there––grief, loss, joy, poverty, peace, illness, ignorance, fortitude, grace––then perhaps he'll be moved to respond when he comes face-to-face with those same things when passing his neighbor on the sidewalk in front of his own home.
--Ibid., 183
Do we have vision to see outside of ourselves? I think of the old Time magazine black-and-white photos during war time with the barbed wire strung every which way. Perspective. Seeing.
I love the depth of Christa Parrish's works. She is within and without ~ seeing with a heart that yearns, sees ~ despair, hidden joy, relaxed indifference. You will not walk away without remembering one character in particular, for they all are different ~ some clinging, others defiant and yet one searching for Truth that can only be found from the beginning, God. Shallowness is swallowed up in victory of discovery. I especially remember Stones for Bread, her first novel I read. You will find the titles have hidden meaning too ~ until they become rich with explosion of an aha moment of discovering the dual meaning that is life expounded so deftly, so unexplainably rich. To throw light on what before was dark and obscure, her characters grow. I also like how she writes from the perspective of each character, revealing the whole.
How our lives bump into another, unexpectedly. We may not even know or realize the extent of our presence, or lack of it. Julian Goetz did that to Evan Walker; met him without saying hello. In the depth of exchange, Julian did not know Evan knew him, deeply as a silent mentor by studying his work. Silently projecting, with a knowing eye for focus, for detail behind his eyes. Seeing the inside reflected on the face, that someone else likely would miss. The instant when real was glimpsed and then hidden again beneath a veneer of platitude, silence. Grimness that everything is okay; but it is not.
I am looking forward to her next novel. Her awareness bears listening to in a world void of hearing. Expansion of thought from the heart, melting an ocean of obscurity.
***Thank you to BookLook Bloggers for sending me a copy of Christa Parrish's novel, Still Life. This review was written in my own words. No other compensation was received.***
February 26, 2015
I’m not sure what I think about this book. It had good points and not-so-good points, aspects which worked for me and some which didn’t. The story follows two main characters: Ada, whose husband has just been killed in a plane crash, and Katherine, who gave up her seat on the flight so Julian could get home in time to celebrate Ada’s birthday … and so she could spend another day with her lover.
The main character, Ada, grew up in a stifling fundamentalist sect (I’d hesitate to call it Christian, as it didn’t appear to offer any of the grace of the gospel, merely the fear of punishment). Her sections feel distant, which feels odd at first because we don’t really understand why she is distant, and why she seems to have no friends and know so little about anything. It’s hard to understand why, although this does become clearer as the story progresses (mostly through the use of flashbacks).
Still Life has an original yet intriguing plot with lot of interweaving between the two main plot lines. The characters are interesting, with more faults and idiosyncrasies than normally seen in Christian fiction—with the possible exception of Julian, who seems to be a candidate for sainthood. The Christian message was understated, yet definitely there, and the title was a play on words on several levels, which become clearer as the novel progresses.
All of these things usually combine to a book I love, yet I didn’t love Still Life. I’m not sure why not. I think it’s because I didn’t relate to Ada and I didn’t understand how she came to be married to Julian (and even when this became clear, I wasn’t convinced). Her voice was authentic to her upbringing and personality, but it made it difficult to truly engage with her, and therefore, made it difficult for me to engage with the story as a whole.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
The main character, Ada, grew up in a stifling fundamentalist sect (I’d hesitate to call it Christian, as it didn’t appear to offer any of the grace of the gospel, merely the fear of punishment). Her sections feel distant, which feels odd at first because we don’t really understand why she is distant, and why she seems to have no friends and know so little about anything. It’s hard to understand why, although this does become clearer as the story progresses (mostly through the use of flashbacks).
Still Life has an original yet intriguing plot with lot of interweaving between the two main plot lines. The characters are interesting, with more faults and idiosyncrasies than normally seen in Christian fiction—with the possible exception of Julian, who seems to be a candidate for sainthood. The Christian message was understated, yet definitely there, and the title was a play on words on several levels, which become clearer as the novel progresses.
All of these things usually combine to a book I love, yet I didn’t love Still Life. I’m not sure why not. I think it’s because I didn’t relate to Ada and I didn’t understand how she came to be married to Julian (and even when this became clear, I wasn’t convinced). Her voice was authentic to her upbringing and personality, but it made it difficult to truly engage with her, and therefore, made it difficult for me to engage with the story as a whole.
Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
January 30, 2015
I am in awe of this book. Christa Parrish in 'Still Life' has created a masterpiece of human relationships. I spent the first half of the book totally engrossed in the beauty of her writing, and the second half in tears.
The story goes: Katherine is having an affair, and about to head home to her family when she suddenly gives up her airline ticket to Julian, a well-known photographer, (whose flight is overbooked), so he can be at home for his wife's birthday---their first since marrying five months previous. The plane crashes. The remainder of the story is about how Julian's wife, Ada, deals with the tragedy, especially the difficulties from her religious cult upbringing---a life full of no's and shall not's. Also, you follow Katherine as she deals with guilt at giving up her ticket, yet as a result gets a second chance at healing her marriage.
I kept gasping as I read, completely surprised at the actions of the characters. There's so much heart in it---and gut-wrenching pain. Her writing was so rich in how she portrayed the hurting individuals, and everyone was hurting. Everyone. Just like real life. But God's grace had the last word, even though folks had to go through the fire to reach Him. Julian's beautiful faith even in death carried the story.
Truly an amazing book. And definitely a ten star out of five.
June 23, 2024
Really enjoy her books!
March 11, 2017
It was good, not great. I liked that it was Christian fiction that did not sugarcoat the searching, the doubting, the half-heartedness through which we wade in our Christian life. I wish she had found a way to go deeper; maybe not tried to tell so many stories with too many characters. Too many voices. And I found the ending more like a trailing off. I half-expected three dots at the end.... But still, there was a lot of good.
November 1, 2025
I was prepared to love this book. I did not. Slow, boring, even the sexy parts were dry.
January 3, 2015
Still Life Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction for providing me with an egalley of the book to review.
I read 32% of this book with honesty and undivided attention, but that was as much as I could take before my patience with the writing started to dwindle. So I skimmed a couple chapters more and decided that that’s as much as I can take from this book, which sadly becomes yet another example of books I simply cannot finish.
It was simply boring. I looked at the other two reviews and didn’t find any of their praise in what I read. At first I thought it might be because I didn’t read far enough into the book, yet the more I read the more I saw the trend continue before me and I give up.
There is nothing heart-wrenching in this book. It read as your standard, and rather cliché, American novel, about two simple families who encounter an event that traumatizes them and how they have to learn to deal with it. Perhaps it’s the fact that I’m not American, and was raised with a more European mindset. The only reaction I managed to feel over the course of the novel was slight irritation, mixed with unmistakable boredom. You’ve got your somewhat Bible-banging family that Ada ran away from to the completely different Julian, who still felt foreign to her even after a few months of marriage. You’ve got Katherine and Will, who are examples of a couple that doesn’t work together no matter how much they try to solve it. Katherine, who’s had an affair. Her son Evan, who has a heart problem. It was like something out of an episode of “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”, something I’ve seen so many times that I must’ve been partially desensitized to it.
I didn’t like any of the characters. Hortense was the only one I could understand to some degree, yet she was so underdeveloped that I didn’t get the chance to connect with her. Ada’s constant thoughts about how different Julian was and how she didn’t understand him made me wonder why she married him in the first place then. Katherine and Will elicited only more irritation.
As for the story, not only was it your standard American-novel right from the start, but it was also going almost nowhere. 32% in and the whole thing read more like a writer throwing down ideas on paper than trying to construct a story that would be emotional and convincing, the way the summary promised it to be. The writing was standard, which in this case makes sense, considering the plot was just as standard.
This was another book I didn’t have the patience or desire to struggle through. It offered absolutely nothing new, taking already familiar character molds and just changing the names and location. It’s a bad sign if an author doesn’t make you connect with the characters and then leaves you with no desire of getting through the book. Truly disappointing. I was looking forward to something much more emotional and at least a little different that would stand out from a sea of books already written in this genre on similar subjects. Instead what I found was bland writing that was going no where.
I read 32% of this book with honesty and undivided attention, but that was as much as I could take before my patience with the writing started to dwindle. So I skimmed a couple chapters more and decided that that’s as much as I can take from this book, which sadly becomes yet another example of books I simply cannot finish.
It was simply boring. I looked at the other two reviews and didn’t find any of their praise in what I read. At first I thought it might be because I didn’t read far enough into the book, yet the more I read the more I saw the trend continue before me and I give up.
There is nothing heart-wrenching in this book. It read as your standard, and rather cliché, American novel, about two simple families who encounter an event that traumatizes them and how they have to learn to deal with it. Perhaps it’s the fact that I’m not American, and was raised with a more European mindset. The only reaction I managed to feel over the course of the novel was slight irritation, mixed with unmistakable boredom. You’ve got your somewhat Bible-banging family that Ada ran away from to the completely different Julian, who still felt foreign to her even after a few months of marriage. You’ve got Katherine and Will, who are examples of a couple that doesn’t work together no matter how much they try to solve it. Katherine, who’s had an affair. Her son Evan, who has a heart problem. It was like something out of an episode of “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”, something I’ve seen so many times that I must’ve been partially desensitized to it.
I didn’t like any of the characters. Hortense was the only one I could understand to some degree, yet she was so underdeveloped that I didn’t get the chance to connect with her. Ada’s constant thoughts about how different Julian was and how she didn’t understand him made me wonder why she married him in the first place then. Katherine and Will elicited only more irritation.
As for the story, not only was it your standard American-novel right from the start, but it was also going almost nowhere. 32% in and the whole thing read more like a writer throwing down ideas on paper than trying to construct a story that would be emotional and convincing, the way the summary promised it to be. The writing was standard, which in this case makes sense, considering the plot was just as standard.
This was another book I didn’t have the patience or desire to struggle through. It offered absolutely nothing new, taking already familiar character molds and just changing the names and location. It’s a bad sign if an author doesn’t make you connect with the characters and then leaves you with no desire of getting through the book. Truly disappointing. I was looking forward to something much more emotional and at least a little different that would stand out from a sea of books already written in this genre on similar subjects. Instead what I found was bland writing that was going no where.
March 5, 2015
Still Life by Christa Parrish is a story about how small choices can change our lives. It's also a story about fallout - after a world famous photojournalist dies in a plane crash, two women's lives are sent reeling. One is his young widow, Ada, who followed her heart out a fundamentalist Christian sect to marry him and isn't sure she can survive alone in his world. The other is Katherine, the woman who gave him her ticket - so she could spend one more night with her lover before returning home to her family.
Parrish uses third person point of view to describe Julian's courtship of Ada and the aftermath of the plane crash that took his life. Ada feels overwhelmed and ill-equipped with suddenly having to deal with adult choices. Katherine is drowning in guilt and confusion as her husband and teenage sons welcome her home and thank God she's alive. Katherine's teenage son, Evan, is dealing with both the death of his idol, Julian, and with discovering his mother's infidelity. It's inevitable that their worlds will collide, and as the book progresses readers see just how connected we all really are.
I was drawn to Still Life because the premise was really interesting to me - I have to admit, I am oddly fascinated by cults, and the way in which Ada mustered the courage to leave her father, the self-described prophet, but couldn't quite shake the worldview she'd learned from him, seemed very realistic. I was proud of Ada each time she took a step outside of her comfort zone and just wanted to give her a hug when she felt despair. On the other hand, adultery is usually an automatic reason for me not to read a book or see a movie, but Christa Parrish was able to make me feel sympathetic for control-freak Katherine. I do wish that Parrish had shown more of the work Katherine and her husband Will had to do to restore their marriage - we see Katherine making the decision to turn her back on a passionate love affair, and counseling is mentioned, but it's obviously still a work in progress.
Overall, Still Life is one of the most spiritually-centered Christian books I have read. In many Christian romance novels, the characters will pray about a decision and that's about it. Throughout Still Life, Ada, Katherine, and Evan struggle to understand and define their relationships with faith, and Julian is the anchor - a model of strong, dedicated belief in Christ. I really loved that Julian got to know Jesus in InterVarsity Christian Fellowship because I was an IV member in college, too! While the story covers difficult ground with grief, disloyalty, and jealousy, there's also hope on every page.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Parrish uses third person point of view to describe Julian's courtship of Ada and the aftermath of the plane crash that took his life. Ada feels overwhelmed and ill-equipped with suddenly having to deal with adult choices. Katherine is drowning in guilt and confusion as her husband and teenage sons welcome her home and thank God she's alive. Katherine's teenage son, Evan, is dealing with both the death of his idol, Julian, and with discovering his mother's infidelity. It's inevitable that their worlds will collide, and as the book progresses readers see just how connected we all really are.
I was drawn to Still Life because the premise was really interesting to me - I have to admit, I am oddly fascinated by cults, and the way in which Ada mustered the courage to leave her father, the self-described prophet, but couldn't quite shake the worldview she'd learned from him, seemed very realistic. I was proud of Ada each time she took a step outside of her comfort zone and just wanted to give her a hug when she felt despair. On the other hand, adultery is usually an automatic reason for me not to read a book or see a movie, but Christa Parrish was able to make me feel sympathetic for control-freak Katherine. I do wish that Parrish had shown more of the work Katherine and her husband Will had to do to restore their marriage - we see Katherine making the decision to turn her back on a passionate love affair, and counseling is mentioned, but it's obviously still a work in progress.
Overall, Still Life is one of the most spiritually-centered Christian books I have read. In many Christian romance novels, the characters will pray about a decision and that's about it. Throughout Still Life, Ada, Katherine, and Evan struggle to understand and define their relationships with faith, and Julian is the anchor - a model of strong, dedicated belief in Christ. I really loved that Julian got to know Jesus in InterVarsity Christian Fellowship because I was an IV member in college, too! While the story covers difficult ground with grief, disloyalty, and jealousy, there's also hope on every page.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
February 12, 2015
One overbooked flight. A man in a rush to get home to celebrate his wife's birthday. A woman who wouldn't mind staying out of town one more night in order to spend more time with the man with whom she's having an affair. When the plane crashes with no survivors, world-famous photographer Julian Goetz is dead, and Katherine Walker's selfish choice has given her a new lease on life while shaking her to the core.
Julian's young widow, Ada, is devastated to have lost her husband after only five months of marriage. Ada was raised in a Christian cult where her father was the prophet and leader. Having lived such an isolated life, she feels she's only begun to live since her marriage to Julian. Every choice before that time had been made for her, and her only freedom found in running away. At just five months out in the world, Ada hasn't had time to develop friendships or a support network of her own, and while Julian's friends want to be there for her, Ada struggles to come to grips with what to do with her life now.
Katherine's affair may have saved her life, but she realizes now that what she wants is to save her marriage and heal her family. She fears that her husband won't be able to forgive her, but when he confesses to multiple affairs of his own, she realizes it will be a hard path for both of them. Meanwhile their two teenage sons struggle with the whole situation, especially Evan, who looked up to Julian Goetz as a hero and doesn't know how to come to grips with the fact that in some ways it's his mother's fault that Julian is dead, since she gave him her seat on the plane.
I found the journeys in this book very compelling. In a lot of ways I could identify with Ada, being very familiar with a hyperconservative upbringing. Her struggle was so real and vulnerable. Evan's world was turned upside down for different reasons, and he wants to find truth and reason in the midst of the pain. Katherine is grasping for purpose and forgiveness. Leaving the legacy of a wonderful man who loved a faithful God, Julian can help point the way, even from the grave, towards finding meaning and wholeness in this overwhelming world. Written in a hauntingly introspective style, this is one I'd be quick to recommend for all those who enjoy a deeper side to fiction.
I received my copy of this book in exchange for this honest review. All opinions are my own.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.livejournal.com
Julian's young widow, Ada, is devastated to have lost her husband after only five months of marriage. Ada was raised in a Christian cult where her father was the prophet and leader. Having lived such an isolated life, she feels she's only begun to live since her marriage to Julian. Every choice before that time had been made for her, and her only freedom found in running away. At just five months out in the world, Ada hasn't had time to develop friendships or a support network of her own, and while Julian's friends want to be there for her, Ada struggles to come to grips with what to do with her life now.
Katherine's affair may have saved her life, but she realizes now that what she wants is to save her marriage and heal her family. She fears that her husband won't be able to forgive her, but when he confesses to multiple affairs of his own, she realizes it will be a hard path for both of them. Meanwhile their two teenage sons struggle with the whole situation, especially Evan, who looked up to Julian Goetz as a hero and doesn't know how to come to grips with the fact that in some ways it's his mother's fault that Julian is dead, since she gave him her seat on the plane.
I found the journeys in this book very compelling. In a lot of ways I could identify with Ada, being very familiar with a hyperconservative upbringing. Her struggle was so real and vulnerable. Evan's world was turned upside down for different reasons, and he wants to find truth and reason in the midst of the pain. Katherine is grasping for purpose and forgiveness. Leaving the legacy of a wonderful man who loved a faithful God, Julian can help point the way, even from the grave, towards finding meaning and wholeness in this overwhelming world. Written in a hauntingly introspective style, this is one I'd be quick to recommend for all those who enjoy a deeper side to fiction.
I received my copy of this book in exchange for this honest review. All opinions are my own.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.livejournal.com
April 22, 2015
Still Life by Christa Parrish is a paper onion -- layers upon layers of words and tart richness, you have to peel back each chapter to get more of the essence! What a lush, poignantly written novel! I confess at the requesting of this book, I had ideas of what it would entail in the imagination of my mind. I envisioned a novel version of the "Bounce" with Gwyneth Paltrow and Ben Affleck. Not so! This book has a life all it's own, a tale meant to woven with a message to share. Parrish can write.
Ada and Julian are intriquing characters ~ from different worlds but drawn together by a voice, an unexplained messanger - that 'sixth sense' that you hear in the back of your mind, faithfully entrancing you with a premonition that something is just and good. Ada, from a strict sect and closed world, meets Julian after he is sent on assignment as a photographer to cover the sect, and they are brought together quickly like magnets.
Katherine Walker is a woman on the verge of a broken marriage beyond repair, having an affair and not caring much who it hurts. As all the stars align in just the right order, place and time, she meets Julian at the airport - having been bumped from an overbooked flight - and they strike up a conversation . She learns he's hoping to be home in time for Ada's birthday, and gives up her seat to him. And as the same fate would have it, the plane crashes with no survivors.
The ensuing aftermath of guilt, sadness, despair, terror of life unknown is worth the read alone.
While I have lost loved ones, and it's nice that an author 'gets it.' That grief and how it weaves into the lives of the characters is rich and concrete. Beautiful. Just beautiful.
Disclosure: I received this book free from Book Look Bloggers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Ada and Julian are intriquing characters ~ from different worlds but drawn together by a voice, an unexplained messanger - that 'sixth sense' that you hear in the back of your mind, faithfully entrancing you with a premonition that something is just and good. Ada, from a strict sect and closed world, meets Julian after he is sent on assignment as a photographer to cover the sect, and they are brought together quickly like magnets.
Katherine Walker is a woman on the verge of a broken marriage beyond repair, having an affair and not caring much who it hurts. As all the stars align in just the right order, place and time, she meets Julian at the airport - having been bumped from an overbooked flight - and they strike up a conversation . She learns he's hoping to be home in time for Ada's birthday, and gives up her seat to him. And as the same fate would have it, the plane crashes with no survivors.
The ensuing aftermath of guilt, sadness, despair, terror of life unknown is worth the read alone.
While I have lost loved ones, and it's nice that an author 'gets it.' That grief and how it weaves into the lives of the characters is rich and concrete. Beautiful. Just beautiful.
Disclosure: I received this book free from Book Look Bloggers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
March 10, 2015
Christa Parrish has written a powerful contemporary novel that illustrates how faith and mercy bring the possibility of healing and hope in the worst of modern life. And the agents of change can be the most unlikely people. Ada was born into a fringe religious cult. When she finally escaped her "prophet"father at age 25 she was virtually an emotional child. She had only five months to begin to understand love and life when her famous photographer husband (and rescuer)Julian Goetz is killed in a plane crash. Knowing she does not belong back with her family, she must make her way alone, and begins by meeting each of the subjects of her husband's Pulitzer winning photographs.
At the same time, a mere hour away another family is in crisis. Karen Walker's world falls into a shambles as her family learns that she had given up her seat to Julian Goetz on that ill fated plane
so she could spend one more night with her lover, who just happens to be the father of her youngest son's best friend. As their small town gossips about the affair, the two broken families face the future in different ways. Karen's son, whose heart condition has always made him feel fragile, knows he must find Jullian's wife (Julian had been his hero) and make some kind of apology.
I can't describe any more without ruining the story. Let me end by saying that the alternating threads of the story join in a powerful way. Christa Parrish is a master at story telling and character development Despite the tragedy that begins this book, you will want to be with these characters and learn the lessons they are learning, especially Ada's. You will want to believe that there are people as good as Julian Goetz. I believe there are. And most importantly, you will end the book, hoping that Christa Parrish is busy writing another already. I received a copy of STILL LIFE from NETGALLEY for my honest review.
At the same time, a mere hour away another family is in crisis. Karen Walker's world falls into a shambles as her family learns that she had given up her seat to Julian Goetz on that ill fated plane
so she could spend one more night with her lover, who just happens to be the father of her youngest son's best friend. As their small town gossips about the affair, the two broken families face the future in different ways. Karen's son, whose heart condition has always made him feel fragile, knows he must find Jullian's wife (Julian had been his hero) and make some kind of apology.
I can't describe any more without ruining the story. Let me end by saying that the alternating threads of the story join in a powerful way. Christa Parrish is a master at story telling and character development Despite the tragedy that begins this book, you will want to be with these characters and learn the lessons they are learning, especially Ada's. You will want to believe that there are people as good as Julian Goetz. I believe there are. And most importantly, you will end the book, hoping that Christa Parrish is busy writing another already. I received a copy of STILL LIFE from NETGALLEY for my honest review.
March 28, 2015
This is the first book I have read by Christa. And all I can say is “I want more.”
What a fabulous author.
She has woven together a story that is so real and raw I was crying in the first 30% of the book.
Katherine is alive because she gave up her seat so she could spend another night with the man she is having an affair with. Even that is more complicated than it sounds. So many connections and things that can hurt so many people.
There is a great line in the book that she says to her husband that I LOVE, but I won’t reveal because I don’t want to take anything away from the story.
Ada frustrated me at times. I wanted her to get some confidence and a backbone. And she does. She did stand up for herself eventually and I was cheering her on.
Christa had me right where she wanted me, I’m sure, as I was wondering how in the world Ada and Julian ever met and then we find out. I was so glad she told that part of the story and so much more.
A deeply moving and beautiful novel that I can not recommend enough. If you are looking for something a big deeper and a little different this is a must read.
An e-copy of this book was given to me by the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers program in exchange for an honest review.
What a fabulous author.
She has woven together a story that is so real and raw I was crying in the first 30% of the book.
Katherine is alive because she gave up her seat so she could spend another night with the man she is having an affair with. Even that is more complicated than it sounds. So many connections and things that can hurt so many people.
There is a great line in the book that she says to her husband that I LOVE, but I won’t reveal because I don’t want to take anything away from the story.
Ada frustrated me at times. I wanted her to get some confidence and a backbone. And she does. She did stand up for herself eventually and I was cheering her on.
Christa had me right where she wanted me, I’m sure, as I was wondering how in the world Ada and Julian ever met and then we find out. I was so glad she told that part of the story and so much more.
A deeply moving and beautiful novel that I can not recommend enough. If you are looking for something a big deeper and a little different this is a must read.
An e-copy of this book was given to me by the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers program in exchange for an honest review.
March 20, 2017
This review is also posted on Book by Book.
Christa Parrish’s Still Life captivated me from the first heartbreaking page. Two women, with very different lives, finds their lives disrupted by a devastating plane crash. As they make choices in the midst of the tragedy and brokenness, Parrish tells a beautiful story of hope, faith and moving forward. Though the tough challenges and questions continually tugged at my emotions, I enjoyed following the journey of these two women and the people around them. It’s lyrical and gripping, and I would recommend it for fans of contemporary character-driven fiction. It’s a great read and I know I now look forward to reading more from Christa Parrish.
Thanks to BookLook Bloggers, I received a copy of Still Life and the opportunity to honestly review it. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own. (I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”)
Christa Parrish’s Still Life captivated me from the first heartbreaking page. Two women, with very different lives, finds their lives disrupted by a devastating plane crash. As they make choices in the midst of the tragedy and brokenness, Parrish tells a beautiful story of hope, faith and moving forward. Though the tough challenges and questions continually tugged at my emotions, I enjoyed following the journey of these two women and the people around them. It’s lyrical and gripping, and I would recommend it for fans of contemporary character-driven fiction. It’s a great read and I know I now look forward to reading more from Christa Parrish.
Thanks to BookLook Bloggers, I received a copy of Still Life and the opportunity to honestly review it. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own. (I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”)
May 2, 2016
I really disliked this book, not because the storyline didn't have potential, but because it reminded me why I do not read Christian fiction...and I am a Christian. It is absolutely ridiculous the premise behind Julian and Ada's marriage. I won't say more so that I don't spoil the terrible plot for anyone else. And I found it offensive how they portrayed the group of Baptist kids in the high school. For the most part, Christian kids do not dress like Mennonite's (in long skirts and black shiny trousers) and they are generally not a bunch of weird outsiders who stick together carrying Bibles and doing Bible studies at lunch. They are normal kids who are sometimes even really popular. Wish the author could have spent a little more time thinking up a plot for the main characters relationship and meeting. Had she, I could have overlooked how dorky she insinuated Christian people to be.
February 12, 2017
Well written, non cheesy book by a Christian author, exploring faith in the aftermath of tragedy, asking how we trust God in the face of things we cannot understand. Well done.
August 2, 2019
As the narrator tells her story, the reader discovers that: she was raised in an cultist, isolated community by a controlling father; she was married to a famous photographer, but not for very long; the photographer died in a plane crash; now she's trying to figure out what it all means. What purpose did God have in leading Julian to her and telling him to marry her? How did his life make a difference in the world? This book explores the influence one life can have in an intriguing narrative that gradually unfolds bit by bit. I found it well written and though provoking and I'd definitely recommend it.
August 24, 2019
A good man dies in the plane crash - a man rushing home for his new wife´s birthday. A woman who offered her seat in the same plane - both from compassion and to have one night more with her lover. A young newlywed, who has left the sect just before her marriage and who does not know how to live in the unknown world without the protection of her husband. A son from good family, whose mom is suddenly unknown to him.
A waiting on God. A waiting on God whose ways are mysterious (at the least).
Mixed feelings. I honrestly think that Ms Parrish is an absolutely gifted writer - her work with the words is breathtaking, her sentences are beautiful and her observations on life are so revealing in their simplicity. She is also sensitive to pain in all of its forms and faces and she obviously loves the outcasts - the hurting ones, the forgotten ones, the silently or not silently suffering amongst us. And she obviously did her works on grief and non/understanding and even the anger on God personally (which is a treat to know, as I think we all struggle with God from time to time and we should not be ashamed to admit it. There is a faith that comes through fire and after that fire, fragile yet strong).
But...in all the beauty and love and faith, there is something missing. I can not exactly pit my finger on it, but it comes with the question "why". Why should we connect with these characters? Where is a reason for this novel? What is the mesage here? I feel that there probably is a message of "not having a message, just the understanding" - but it truly is not enough here for me. I know there is no placement and no simple cure for pain. But what WAS/IS the personal take of Ms Parrish on pain? What has she learned and what she wants to give out within these pages? I mean no offense here, but I simply have these questions.
A waiting on God. A waiting on God whose ways are mysterious (at the least).
Mixed feelings. I honrestly think that Ms Parrish is an absolutely gifted writer - her work with the words is breathtaking, her sentences are beautiful and her observations on life are so revealing in their simplicity. She is also sensitive to pain in all of its forms and faces and she obviously loves the outcasts - the hurting ones, the forgotten ones, the silently or not silently suffering amongst us. And she obviously did her works on grief and non/understanding and even the anger on God personally (which is a treat to know, as I think we all struggle with God from time to time and we should not be ashamed to admit it. There is a faith that comes through fire and after that fire, fragile yet strong).
But...in all the beauty and love and faith, there is something missing. I can not exactly pit my finger on it, but it comes with the question "why". Why should we connect with these characters? Where is a reason for this novel? What is the mesage here? I feel that there probably is a message of "not having a message, just the understanding" - but it truly is not enough here for me. I know there is no placement and no simple cure for pain. But what WAS/IS the personal take of Ms Parrish on pain? What has she learned and what she wants to give out within these pages? I mean no offense here, but I simply have these questions.
June 18, 2022
I don't often give 5 star reviews. I enjoy books, but rarely do I find a story that captures me enough to warrant 5 stars. But Still Life did. I wish I could give it more stars.
Some books you read and forget a hour later. And some you're still processing days later. Still Life definitely falls into the latter category. I don't find a lot of very compelling reads in Christian Fiction these days (too many contrived plots and overly sentimental characters), but that probably says more about me as a reader than Still Life as a book. Needless to say, this book was a breath of fresh air for me in a market over-crowded with Amish and Regency romances.
I have read all of Parrish's previous novels, her first one being my favorite until Still Life. (I love finding new fav reads by authors I've previously enjoyed!) Parrish's writing, while very good in her earlier stories, has matured and her voice, characterizations, and descriptive narratives in Still Life are spot on. From the opening scene I was hooked, and I found myself slowing down to really savor several of the passages, wanting the story to keep going. I was so sad when it ended. But Still Life is one of those books that keeps on going in your head, too. Really good stories do this--they take on a life of their own past the pages of the novel.
I don't want to give any of the plot away and the synopsis will tell you everything you need to know to decide whether this book is for you or not. I highly recommend reading the free preview that Amazon gives of the story--that's what sold me on buying the book for myself instead of trying to get it through the library.
FYI - This is a bit of a tear-jerker. I tripped over a couple of unexpected triggers in the story and had to put the book down for a few minutes. However, I still whole-heartedly recommend the story. The journey is worth it.
Some books you read and forget a hour later. And some you're still processing days later. Still Life definitely falls into the latter category. I don't find a lot of very compelling reads in Christian Fiction these days (too many contrived plots and overly sentimental characters), but that probably says more about me as a reader than Still Life as a book. Needless to say, this book was a breath of fresh air for me in a market over-crowded with Amish and Regency romances.
I have read all of Parrish's previous novels, her first one being my favorite until Still Life. (I love finding new fav reads by authors I've previously enjoyed!) Parrish's writing, while very good in her earlier stories, has matured and her voice, characterizations, and descriptive narratives in Still Life are spot on. From the opening scene I was hooked, and I found myself slowing down to really savor several of the passages, wanting the story to keep going. I was so sad when it ended. But Still Life is one of those books that keeps on going in your head, too. Really good stories do this--they take on a life of their own past the pages of the novel.
I don't want to give any of the plot away and the synopsis will tell you everything you need to know to decide whether this book is for you or not. I highly recommend reading the free preview that Amazon gives of the story--that's what sold me on buying the book for myself instead of trying to get it through the library.
FYI - This is a bit of a tear-jerker. I tripped over a couple of unexpected triggers in the story and had to put the book down for a few minutes. However, I still whole-heartedly recommend the story. The journey is worth it.
April 9, 2020
It took me a while to understand what was happening in the beginning of the book. It was a little disjointed, or maybe I'm just not used to the writing style.
This story is about adultery in a lot of ways, but it is also about growth. There's a lot of questioning going on regarding God and His will.
There are four main parts, generally with each main character having their POV shared. Sometimes they bleed over into each other's sections, but I didn't mind.
Man, I really wanted Julian to live after reading the parts written from his perspective. But I realize that maybe Katherine would've never woken up from her affair. The author did a great job with all of her characters' emotional development and shaping. The author made them "real" people because of their emotions and actions.
I loved how Ada grew and came out of her shell more and more.
Some mention of the appearance of one's body in the mirror and the bath. A couple mentions of circumcision and other body parts. A brief "get the h-ll out" comment. Some parts where Katherine was with the man she was cheating with were borderline too much for me. Nothing incredibly detailed, but I'm just not comfortable with reading that sort of thing anyways.
This is one of those stories where there is an ending, and beginning, but is no definite conclusion for a lot of things. It's like knowing someone for a brief moment of time and then it's over. I'm not always the biggest fan of these types of stories in general, but it wasn't that bad—just not my usual preference. I enjoyed reading this book and I read it fairly quickly because I wanted to know what happened next.
3 stars.
Added to "to-read" in 2014. Began reading April 1, 2020. Finished April 3, 2020.
This story is about adultery in a lot of ways, but it is also about growth. There's a lot of questioning going on regarding God and His will.
There are four main parts, generally with each main character having their POV shared. Sometimes they bleed over into each other's sections, but I didn't mind.
Man, I really wanted Julian to live after reading the parts written from his perspective. But I realize that maybe Katherine would've never woken up from her affair. The author did a great job with all of her characters' emotional development and shaping. The author made them "real" people because of their emotions and actions.
I loved how Ada grew and came out of her shell more and more.
Some mention of the appearance of one's body in the mirror and the bath. A couple mentions of circumcision and other body parts. A brief "get the h-ll out" comment. Some parts where Katherine was with the man she was cheating with were borderline too much for me. Nothing incredibly detailed, but I'm just not comfortable with reading that sort of thing anyways.
This is one of those stories where there is an ending, and beginning, but is no definite conclusion for a lot of things. It's like knowing someone for a brief moment of time and then it's over. I'm not always the biggest fan of these types of stories in general, but it wasn't that bad—just not my usual preference. I enjoyed reading this book and I read it fairly quickly because I wanted to know what happened next.
3 stars.
Added to "to-read" in 2014. Began reading April 1, 2020. Finished April 3, 2020.
April 10, 2025
A well-known photographer dies in a plane accident and his life affects many people. His wife, Ada, rescued from a strict cult, has only just started learning how to live without someone controlling and thinking for her due to her new husband's patience and Christlike love. Katherine, the woman who gave up her seat to him on the plane, lives with the guilt of adultery when he dies so she could spend another night with her lover. Hortense, a woman born without hands, reaches out to Ada and tries to help her live again. Evan, a teenage boy inspired by the photography of the man who died, wrestles with meaning and loss when his mother is the adulterer who lived and the photographer is the one who died.
The author does a great job weaving their stories and anguish and hopes together into a message of redemption through one man's death. However, the author falls short of actually explaining the gospel to the reader. She gives Bible truth and shows the deception of using the Bible against people rather than helping them. She confronts lust and adultery and I appreciated her attempt at reconciliation and redemption. It just seemed like she brought the characters to the Bible for hope but that's where she left it.
🫏YES discussion questions
The author does a great job weaving their stories and anguish and hopes together into a message of redemption through one man's death. However, the author falls short of actually explaining the gospel to the reader. She gives Bible truth and shows the deception of using the Bible against people rather than helping them. She confronts lust and adultery and I appreciated her attempt at reconciliation and redemption. It just seemed like she brought the characters to the Bible for hope but that's where she left it.
🫏YES discussion questions
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