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God Doesn't Love Us All the Same
Drama - Janine Harris never really thought about homeless people. She barely even notices them as she passes them by on her way to work in downtown Washington D.C. All Janine can focus on is the shambles of her own young life, afraid that she will never be able to get past the painful mistakes she has made. However, all of that changes on a snowy evening in December when Janine unexpectedly finds herself alone with Vera, an old, homeless woman who seems to need her help. Now Janine wants to know what could have possibly happened to Vera to leave her so broken and alone. As Vera shares her life story with Janine, the two women form an unusual bond and begin a journey that changes both of their lives forever. Reluctantly, they each confront their own past and in the process, discover the true meaning of sacrifice, family and love. Although in the end, they learn that they must face the most difficult challenge of all - forgiving themselves.
- GenresFiction
252 pages, Paperback
First published May 5, 2014
72 people are currently reading
355 people want to read
About the author
Nina Guilbeau
7 books20 followersNina Guilbeau is the Siblings Editor and new African American Editor for BellaOnline. She is the winner of the Royal Palm Literary Award and author of Too Many Sisters, Too Many Secrets, God Doesn't Love Us All the Same, Because You're You: A True Story, Birth Order and Parenting with writing credits in short story anthologies From Our Family to Yours and Chicken Soup for the Soul.
"As a writer I feel as if I walk two distinct paths. On one path, I am drawn in the direction of non-fiction family pieces. I believe that if we can understand our family relationships, we can get a better understanding of who we are as individuals.
On the other path, I enjoy the creativity involved when plotting out different fictional stories. As the characters go through their ups and downs, it’s comforting to know that on some level, it will all work out for them. My central characters always carry the lesson that sometimes to grow, you have to “let go.”
"As a writer I feel as if I walk two distinct paths. On one path, I am drawn in the direction of non-fiction family pieces. I believe that if we can understand our family relationships, we can get a better understanding of who we are as individuals.
On the other path, I enjoy the creativity involved when plotting out different fictional stories. As the characters go through their ups and downs, it’s comforting to know that on some level, it will all work out for them. My central characters always carry the lesson that sometimes to grow, you have to “let go.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
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August 20, 2017DNF - 20% in, don't think I could stick with this one.
February 27, 2015
What's It About?
God Doesn’t Love Us All The Same is an emotionally engrossing novel about a young banker who callously steps over a homeless woman every morning on her way to work. One day she takes the time to speak with her. After a few more discussions, she learns her entire life story, and becomes closer to this homeless woman than she ever would've thought. Her discussions with this woman change the path of her life, and her attitude towards people in general.
My Thoughts:
Finally the weeping has stopped! I cried throughout most of this novel. Can I please give it 10 stars? Because it was THAT GOOD!
God Doesn’t Love Us All The Same is a story about racism, stigma, familial love and devotion, and the power of forgiveness. It is a story that will have you crying, and then smiling ear to ear. I was very emotional reading this book.
I hated Janine at the beginning of the story. She was self absorbed and unfeeling to others. I couldn’t believe the turnaround she made by the end of the novel. It’s amazing how a chance meeting with someone (Vera, the homeless woman), can influence, and ultimately change your life. –And I think that this is the underlying message of this story.
Noteworthy Characters:
Janine: College drop-out/banker who lives with her sister. She is miserably confused, and just wants a do-over.
Vera: Multi-racial, elderly homeless woman who doesn’t fear death… She fears seeing God disappointed with her.
Robert Tillery Sr: Vera’s wealthy, racist, and influential white grandfather.
Sara Tillery: Vera’s white grandmother.
Vicki: Janine’s sister.
Hattie: Vera’s black mother. She feels helpless under the control of the Tillerys.
Robert Tillery Jr: Vera’s deceased white father.
Clyde Thomas: Hattie accepts a marriage proposal from Clyde, who is 20 years her senior, as a way out from the control of the Tillerys.
Marianne: Vera's daughter
Recommendation:
Anyone who enjoy stories centered around a woman’s experience, and/or anyone who enjoys the drama of societal issues, (and this book has PLENTY).
***In interest of full disclosure, I received an e-copy of God Doesn’t Love Us All The Same, by the author, in exchange for a thoughtful, fair, and honest book review.
Full review @ https://aprillwood.wordpress.com/2015...
God Doesn’t Love Us All The Same is an emotionally engrossing novel about a young banker who callously steps over a homeless woman every morning on her way to work. One day she takes the time to speak with her. After a few more discussions, she learns her entire life story, and becomes closer to this homeless woman than she ever would've thought. Her discussions with this woman change the path of her life, and her attitude towards people in general.
My Thoughts:
Finally the weeping has stopped! I cried throughout most of this novel. Can I please give it 10 stars? Because it was THAT GOOD!
God Doesn’t Love Us All The Same is a story about racism, stigma, familial love and devotion, and the power of forgiveness. It is a story that will have you crying, and then smiling ear to ear. I was very emotional reading this book.
I hated Janine at the beginning of the story. She was self absorbed and unfeeling to others. I couldn’t believe the turnaround she made by the end of the novel. It’s amazing how a chance meeting with someone (Vera, the homeless woman), can influence, and ultimately change your life. –And I think that this is the underlying message of this story.
Noteworthy Characters:
Janine: College drop-out/banker who lives with her sister. She is miserably confused, and just wants a do-over.
Vera: Multi-racial, elderly homeless woman who doesn’t fear death… She fears seeing God disappointed with her.
Robert Tillery Sr: Vera’s wealthy, racist, and influential white grandfather.
Sara Tillery: Vera’s white grandmother.
Vicki: Janine’s sister.
Hattie: Vera’s black mother. She feels helpless under the control of the Tillerys.
Robert Tillery Jr: Vera’s deceased white father.
Clyde Thomas: Hattie accepts a marriage proposal from Clyde, who is 20 years her senior, as a way out from the control of the Tillerys.
Marianne: Vera's daughter
Recommendation:
Anyone who enjoy stories centered around a woman’s experience, and/or anyone who enjoys the drama of societal issues, (and this book has PLENTY).
***In interest of full disclosure, I received an e-copy of God Doesn’t Love Us All The Same, by the author, in exchange for a thoughtful, fair, and honest book review.
Full review @ https://aprillwood.wordpress.com/2015...
December 23, 2014
This story is amazing. Perfect for the holiday season. I was very intrigued by Vera's story she really went through hell!! Her daughter Marianne made me want to hop in the book and kick her ass! I'm so glad Janine met Vera because she went from cold and selfish to warm and giving. Loved it!
June 24, 2017
Couldn't get through this one- repetitive and slow paced
February 11, 2017
This book was okay but it left me with unanswered questions. Overall, I enjoyed the message of the book; however, better (and sometimes more realistic) dialogue between the characters would have increased my enjoyment. Less reference to religion would have also been favorable. I did find the book to sometimes seem a bit on the dramatic side (yet, it held my interest in that I couldn't wait to find out why Vera was in her current situation). I was left with questions that should have been answered- what happened to William? Did the police investigate, was Vera still being sought for questioning after all these years? What happened to Marcie? Wouldn't Vera have been even slightly curious what was going on back home?
March 21, 2015
What a heartfelt story... My heart went out to both Vera and Janine. It goes to show you how God will send someone in your life just to say I care.. Very powerful.
August 17, 2017
I just completed reading "God Does Not Love Us All The Same" and I was so completely and emotionally vested (completed in 5 hours) that I am drained! When I feel this way after a read, the author has done an excellent job with characterization and bringing the book to life (for me). During the course of this read, I felt myself literally running through the fields and standing outside in the freezing cold.
This book was selected by member, Jackie for U.S. G.I.R.L.S Book Club's upcoming meeting,. The author was new to me, so I was excited to read this offering. The title is somewhat misleading because you immediately think it is a work of Christian Fiction, and may not be prepared for murder, mayhem, sex, lies and a whole lot of psychological and social issues. Fortunately, it does not take long for the author to introduce these elements to the reader.
The narrative vacillates back and forth from current to past with dream sequences interjected here and there. Since I am a self-proclaimed history buff, I would liked to have had more historical references for the time periods of each narrative for points of reference.
Overall, a very good read with resounding messages centering around family, love and redemption.
This book was selected by member, Jackie for U.S. G.I.R.L.S Book Club's upcoming meeting,. The author was new to me, so I was excited to read this offering. The title is somewhat misleading because you immediately think it is a work of Christian Fiction, and may not be prepared for murder, mayhem, sex, lies and a whole lot of psychological and social issues. Fortunately, it does not take long for the author to introduce these elements to the reader.
The narrative vacillates back and forth from current to past with dream sequences interjected here and there. Since I am a self-proclaimed history buff, I would liked to have had more historical references for the time periods of each narrative for points of reference.
Overall, a very good read with resounding messages centering around family, love and redemption.
January 3, 2017
This is a book with many layers, that covers a number of issues. Centering around Janine's relationships with homeless Vera, it explores racial tensions, making mistakes and forgiveness.
Going back and forth in time, Vera gradually tells Janine her life story, and in doing so unknowingly helps Janine make improvements to her own life. Vera is a great character, one you can relate to as she tells Janine about her past. She thought she was doing things for the best, but they didn't work out and led to her being homeless.
This isn't my normal choice of book but I'm glad I've read it. It's really well written and in places makes you wonder what you would do in similar situations. The ending is also truly moving.
Going back and forth in time, Vera gradually tells Janine her life story, and in doing so unknowingly helps Janine make improvements to her own life. Vera is a great character, one you can relate to as she tells Janine about her past. She thought she was doing things for the best, but they didn't work out and led to her being homeless.
This isn't my normal choice of book but I'm glad I've read it. It's really well written and in places makes you wonder what you would do in similar situations. The ending is also truly moving.
June 2, 2017
Such a compelling story
You find yourself deeply immersed in Vera's story that you can't stop reading. I was very impressed with this book because it wasn't predictable and I wanted to know about each character. Even though I still wonder about some of the characters and what was there outcome I won't express my thoughts here so I won't ruin it for anyone else. Great suggestion for book clubs!
You find yourself deeply immersed in Vera's story that you can't stop reading. I was very impressed with this book because it wasn't predictable and I wanted to know about each character. Even though I still wonder about some of the characters and what was there outcome I won't express my thoughts here so I won't ruin it for anyone else. Great suggestion for book clubs!
July 13, 2017
This book was very well received by readers, but I find myself unable to give it a higher rating than "liked it". The story is touching but I found it difficult to enter into the lived consciousness of the characters. Motivations are described and labelled but didn't seem real to me. Perhaps it is my lack of imagination or empathy, but I don't think so.
August 27, 2017
A young woman named Janine accidently stumbles upon a homeless woman and over time learns her life storey and how she got to this stage of her life. Eventually the homeless woman softens her views and changes her life forever. This was a really good book; I am glad I read it. My only issue was the typos.
August 25, 2018
Couldn't out the book down
As in drying my eyes , reading the last few pages. Vera who sold her soul to the devil to provide for her daughter, only to have her daughter hate her. Janine finally learns a life lesson by taking the time to listen to Veras life story. What a beautiful sad life to ive. Maybe Janine will be the shining light in honor of Vera?
As in drying my eyes , reading the last few pages. Vera who sold her soul to the devil to provide for her daughter, only to have her daughter hate her. Janine finally learns a life lesson by taking the time to listen to Veras life story. What a beautiful sad life to ive. Maybe Janine will be the shining light in honor of Vera?
March 9, 2018
What an amazing read?
This is absolutely the most insightful books I've ever read. It really makes the reader look very retrospectively at one's life. I cried. I laughed and then cried again. This is definitely a must read.
This is absolutely the most insightful books I've ever read. It really makes the reader look very retrospectively at one's life. I cried. I laughed and then cried again. This is definitely a must read.
June 3, 2018
Suspense-filled intriguing storyline that speaks to the emotions.
Friends, colleagues, family both Christian and non-christian alike.
It not only talks about the love of God, but also the act and process self-forgiveness - a skill everyone needs.
Friends, colleagues, family both Christian and non-christian alike.
It not only talks about the love of God, but also the act and process self-forgiveness - a skill everyone needs.
December 12, 2016
Thought provokinh
I loved this book! The raw honesty and emotion. In such a painful place in my life, this book gave me a new perspective.
I loved this book! The raw honesty and emotion. In such a painful place in my life, this book gave me a new perspective.
April 26, 2018
Good read
Excellent book with thought provoking subject that makes you want to look at people differently. Will enrich any reader guaranreed
Excellent book with thought provoking subject that makes you want to look at people differently. Will enrich any reader guaranreed
April 30, 2018
great read
I only gave the book 4 stars because of the mistakes. Other than that it was a great read! I was drawn into the characters lives from the beginning.
I only gave the book 4 stars because of the mistakes. Other than that it was a great read! I was drawn into the characters lives from the beginning.
December 27, 2018
This book was good but sad!!! I cried and thought about life when I finished!!!
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April 15, 2022Great Story
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was a very touching story with great life lessons. It was hard to put down. Loved it.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was a very touching story with great life lessons. It was hard to put down. Loved it.
July 16, 2022
The disappointing number of typos was distracting, and the start was off-putting, but I persevered and found it quite compelling.
September 19, 2023
Very touching
I good read. I couldn’t put it down. It’s thoughtful and makes you think about what life really means to you.
I good read. I couldn’t put it down. It’s thoughtful and makes you think about what life really means to you.
February 25, 2017
Great story!
Great story! Needs more editing as far grammar, but still good. A bit of a tearjerker and would have never expected the ending!
Great story! Needs more editing as far grammar, but still good. A bit of a tearjerker and would have never expected the ending!
August 15, 2014
3 1/2 STARS
Nina Guilbeau wrote a riveting story where two strangers met and changed each other’s lives. In God Doesn't Love Us All the Same , Janine and Vera met by chance on a snowy night. Their chance meeting led to conversations that took them back in time to reveal how Vera ended up homeless. It was a moving story that had my curiosity piqued throughout. The odd friendship that developed between Janine and Vera was heartwarming and led to each experiencing important realizations about their lives and relationships, which I found to be one of my favorite aspects of the book.
Vera dealt with many ups and downs in her life where some people took amazing care of her and others treated her in the worst possible way. It was all of the turmoil in her life that was difficult to read about. It was heavy subject matter and actually made me feel a bit guilty, especially with the frequent reminders of the injustice in the world, which I thankfully haven’t had to experience. Even with the heavy subject matter, I appreciated the thoughtful manner in which Nina Guilbeau wrote Vera’s story.
There were a couple of things I struggled with. It always seemed like there was someone in a position to overhear or see something not meant to be heard/seen. It just seemed a bit too convenient at times, especially when it happened over and over again. I also found the mysterious issue Janine was dealing with to be a bit far-fetched.
I enjoyed the opportunity to read this novel and the reminders that came along with it--to appreciate the life I have been blessed with.
Rating: B- (3 ½ Stars)
Note: Review copy courtesy of the author
Nina Guilbeau wrote a riveting story where two strangers met and changed each other’s lives. In God Doesn't Love Us All the Same , Janine and Vera met by chance on a snowy night. Their chance meeting led to conversations that took them back in time to reveal how Vera ended up homeless. It was a moving story that had my curiosity piqued throughout. The odd friendship that developed between Janine and Vera was heartwarming and led to each experiencing important realizations about their lives and relationships, which I found to be one of my favorite aspects of the book.
Vera dealt with many ups and downs in her life where some people took amazing care of her and others treated her in the worst possible way. It was all of the turmoil in her life that was difficult to read about. It was heavy subject matter and actually made me feel a bit guilty, especially with the frequent reminders of the injustice in the world, which I thankfully haven’t had to experience. Even with the heavy subject matter, I appreciated the thoughtful manner in which Nina Guilbeau wrote Vera’s story.
There were a couple of things I struggled with. It always seemed like there was someone in a position to overhear or see something not meant to be heard/seen. It just seemed a bit too convenient at times, especially when it happened over and over again. I also found the mysterious issue Janine was dealing with to be a bit far-fetched.
I enjoyed the opportunity to read this novel and the reminders that came along with it--to appreciate the life I have been blessed with.
Rating: B- (3 ½ Stars)
Note: Review copy courtesy of the author
September 4, 2014
A story within a story, the book offers a perspective of growing up in a time and place where biracial children were not accepted by either race, but there was still love on both sides from some of those close to them. It goes through the life of Vera, now an elderly homeless woman, and tells how she came to be that way. The writing starts out a little rough, but you quickly become enthralled in the story of Vera's life, just as Janine in the story does. The story also offers some important life lessons, as the characters learn these themselves. An enjoyable, emotional read that pulls you in.
September 25, 2016
Sad but good
I enjoyed hearing the story of how Vera ended up being a homeless woman. The struggles and problems she faced give a little insight to what some of the homeless people I see may have gone through. Although I'm not sure I would get to know a homeless person on the same level Janine did it still makes you realize that they are people who just hit rough patches in their lives and were not able to overcome them. I wish I could've gotten a little more info about Vera's daughter; how she felt about her now, was she interested in having a relationship with her, did she ever try to look for her things of that nature. Overall a very good read.
I enjoyed hearing the story of how Vera ended up being a homeless woman. The struggles and problems she faced give a little insight to what some of the homeless people I see may have gone through. Although I'm not sure I would get to know a homeless person on the same level Janine did it still makes you realize that they are people who just hit rough patches in their lives and were not able to overcome them. I wish I could've gotten a little more info about Vera's daughter; how she felt about her now, was she interested in having a relationship with her, did she ever try to look for her things of that nature. Overall a very good read.
December 14, 2016
Interesting mix
This book is an interesting mix of history, compassion and religion. Good characterization and an interesting plot. Thought provoking. Good read.
This book is an interesting mix of history, compassion and religion. Good characterization and an interesting plot. Thought provoking. Good read.
May 8, 2015
What a fitting title
This is a very powerful story. Every character , played an important part.
Vera, suffered. Verbal Abusive from her grandfather and sexual abusive from her stepfather and physical and verbal Abusive from her daughter, and just to end alone and homeless
We would like to read more books similar to this good read.
This is a very powerful story. Every character , played an important part.
Vera, suffered. Verbal Abusive from her grandfather and sexual abusive from her stepfather and physical and verbal Abusive from her daughter, and just to end alone and homeless
We would like to read more books similar to this good read.
August 28, 2015
God doesn't Love Us All the Same is very powerful story. Vera, a homeless woman, and Janine, an ungrateful 20 something bank teller meet on a cold winter night. Janine, for reasons she cannot understand at first, is intrigued by Vera. The two women bond over stories about their lives.
Beautiful story!
Beautiful story!
July 15, 2019
It should be we don't love each other the same
This was a long story and very sad. I couldn't believe how ungrateful Marianne was and just bitter even though nothing in her life has happened to make her feel that way. Vera has gone above and beyond for her even though she had been dealt a bad hand. How could someone who came from love have no love.
This was a long story and very sad. I couldn't believe how ungrateful Marianne was and just bitter even though nothing in her life has happened to make her feel that way. Vera has gone above and beyond for her even though she had been dealt a bad hand. How could someone who came from love have no love.
January 31, 2017
Excellent
After reading this book I was more aware of my faults, strengths, and weaknesses as a person. It is not a "religious" book. It's very raw and brutally honest. It will get the reader out of his comfort zone.
After reading this book I was more aware of my faults, strengths, and weaknesses as a person. It is not a "religious" book. It's very raw and brutally honest. It will get the reader out of his comfort zone.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews