Singing Through Fire

by Lara Silverman

What if you fall in love on the brink of death? Singing Through Fire invites readers into the Job-like true story of a young woman who loses everything—and dares to ask why a good God allows it.

When Stanford Law graduate Lara Palanjian collapses on her dream job, she never imagines it will lead to four years bedridden—or to the love of her life.

Enter Matthew Silverman: a witty, wise, and impossibly joyful youth pastor and professor facing terminal cancer. What begins with a few random encounters soon ignites an extraordinary, God-written love story that neither of them saw coming.

As their unlikely romance unfolds between medical crises, late-night laughter, and unexpected musical performances, Matthew's unshakable faith challenges everything Lara thinks she knows about God’s goodness—and what it means to walk with Christlike faith, resilience, and joy in the face of overwhelming grief and suffering.

But with time against them, one question looms louder than the rest: What if this gift is only for a moment?

Surprisingly funny and spiritually rich, Singing Through Fire is a modern-day Job meets Lucille Ball. It explores what it means to suffer, love, and even laugh and make music while your life is burning down around you. It eloquently gives voice to the aching questions many believers quietly carry—then takes readers inside the breathtaking story of two people who found miraculous love and defiant joy amid heartbreaking loss.

It reveals how God can use even our deepest pain to write the most beautiful love stories—even on the cusp of eternity.

Genres: Memoir, Christian Non Fiction

512 pages, ebook

Published August 26, 2025

About the author

Lara Silverman is a Christian author, lawyer, jazz singer, actress, and host of the Singing Through Fire podcast. She holds a J.D. from Stanford Law School and a B.A. in both Economics and Political Science from UC Berkeley. Before falling seriously ill in 2018, Lara worked for two federal judges and practiced high stakes litigation for three years at Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP, where she specialized in intellectual property, antitrust, and contract cases of all kinds.

In 2023, Lara co-founded The Silverman Show—a multifaceted comedy, music, and theology show—and released her debut jazz/pop album as her own music producer in February 2024. In September 2024, she debuted as Mrs. Serious in her solo Armenian comedy show online, amassing upwards of 300,000 views on individual videos on social media. Even as she remains mostly bedridden today, she anchors her unwavering hope in God.

Reviews

[ChrissiesPurpleLibrary · Rating 5 out of 5]

"When the answer is no, far greater things are at stake. There is another level, another kingdom, an invisible kingdom which you and I cannot see now but toward which we move and to which we belong."

How do you quantify suffering? How can you measure pain? Can the Lord be glorified and revealed in the most unexpected ways? Reading Singing through the Fire answered these questions for me. Lara Silverman authentically, humorously and with great transparency offers her journey of illness, suffering and great love. In reading this memoir I identified with many of the faith crisis, questions and the real acceptance of the Lord's plan in my life. I was encouraged. I mourned. I learned. I laughed- a lot. Above all, I saw pure love and the Lord's hand guiding Lara and her husband Matthew through trial after trial. But in the very same moment their faith was increased and love abounded. I am so grateful to have read this memoir. May The Lord be glorified and his people encouraged by reading testimony.

" My ears have heard of You, but now my eyes have seen You." Job 42:5

[Christian Shelves · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book brought tears to my eyes. I'm grateful that God led several people to remark to Lara Silverman that she should capture her life experience in the form of a book as it pays such loving honour to her husband and to her Saviour. I was incredibly touched by this memoir and how well everything was documented, allowing me to step into Lara and Matthew's journey and feel some of the emotions captured on the pages. This moving story of a deep, enduring love is the definition of what it means to persevere in the midst of many trials by fire, while inspiring hope through an eternal perspective that one day, all will be made right again. It's simply an unbelievable and utterly romantic story that will sweep you off your feet while having you kneel before the Father at the same time after reading about fellow believers who understand what it means to surrender all to Jesus.

If it wasn't for the fact that this book was based on a true story, it would almost read as a sweeping fictional saga. Instead, it's grounded in reality against the backdrop of a musical number that carries us through the journey of terminal illness, unexplained medical conditions, and unanswered questions. Despite these harrowing circumstances, Lara and Matthew encourage Christians to worship God when there are tests all around us, exemplifying what faithfulness to Him can look like. Filled with humour, heart, and honesty, readers looking for a powerful testimony that glorifies God during the most excruciating times in our lives will find that there can be Singing Through Fire, just as the Silverman family has been doing.

Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...

Many thanks to the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Singing Through Fire is the first memoir that I've ever read, and I'm happy that I was led to read this one. Be ready with the tissues for crying in sympathy and rejoicing in their joy.

The story of Laura and Matthew Silverman's journey is one of intense suffering, hardship, and a test of faith and trust. This story touched my heart. I was emotionally charged as I walked their journey through the pages of their lives. I was given a thorough look at their character, followed their thoughts through each circumstance, and learned how God used their suffering to bring forth joy.

Both Laura and Matt were struggling with what could eventually lead to their early death due to their illness. I was inspired by how God used both of them. I admired their ability to get past the pain and witness for God. The book was enlightening as I read scripture and reminded me of some things I hadn't considered in a long time. It was so inspiring, and I hope everyone gets a chance to experience it.

I received a complimentary copy from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

[BookishKelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart-wrenching, honest, relatable, and funny. Lara's struggle with health and loss and how she still loves God and is turning her "test into a testimony" is absolutely beautiful. This sister in Christ has my heart and my prayers. I feel like I have come to know her through her memoir and have found myself feeling so proud of her. As someone with an incurable condition (not nearly as debilitating as hers, but cumbersome nonetheless), her openness and faith is inspiring.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here's an excellent book I was sad to finish last night.
Singing Through Fire is a memoir of love, devotion, and faith despite terrible circumstances.
Lara was just starting her career as a high-power attorney.
Then she became debilitated by a sudden, mysterious illness.
Though she was bedridden, a kind man reconnected with her and their love story began - even though he was on his second round of cancer.
Their love story unfolded while they were both sick.
Only a year after marriage, she had to grieve losing Matt, her beloved husband, who was a brilliant scientist, missionary, and youth pastor.
What I loved about this memoir is how Lara preserved Matt's powerful testimony in the pages.
I also appreciate how she questions the hardest truths about faith while constantly looking for signs of God speaking to her in her grief and loss.
Ultimately, I appreciated her enthusiasm for life, as evident in her creative and engaging writing.
I've already told Lara that her book will make my list of top reads from over 100 books I read each year. Her book makes the 90th one I've read in 2025.
I highly recommend it to you.

[Barb Hegreberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an important story for those who find themselves asking, “Why?”, into the darkness that comes with chronic pain & suffering.

I received this book free from the author, publisher, or other source. My only obligation is to provide a fair and honest review.

[Sandy Sandmeyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

"𝑪𝒉𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒂𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒅 𝒅𝒊𝒄𝒉𝒐𝒕𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒆𝒔. 𝑶𝒏𝒆 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒅, 𝒚𝒐𝒖'𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈; 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒏𝒆𝒙𝒕, 𝒚𝒐𝒖'𝒓𝒆 𝒄𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒓𝒆𝒋𝒐𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒄𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝑮𝒐𝒅 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒎𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒂 𝒈𝒐𝒐𝒅 𝒑𝒖𝒓𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒐𝒇 𝒊𝒕."

This quote is the whole point of this book. Through the good and through the not so good, God is always good.

This is the love story of Lara and Matt. It's also the love story of God and all of us. Lara colorfully walks the reader through her illness and her relationship with Matt. Even in the difficulty, her words and her increasing faith grips the reader.

There are tears in these pages. There is laughter and joy as well. But what really strikes me is that there is a lesson to us that even in the worst of all times, God is present and His peace that passes understanding can carry and sustain us through it all.

I highly recommend Singing Through the Fire.

[Julia Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

“God always writes the best stories.” -Singing Through Fire

As I write this review, my eyes are still puffy, and my head is still aching from crying. Yet, there is peace and joy laced within the sorrow. “Joy in grief,” as Lara would say. I don’t think any review can fully capture how powerful and emotional this book is, and I encourage everyone to read Singing Through Fire, even nonbelievers.

I didn’t know what to expect when Lara reached out, asking if I’d read a book about her life and the passing of her husband. However, I was immediately compelled within the first few pages and couldn’t put it down. It transformed me for the better–having grown my faith, compassion, and desire to live life to the fullest for Jesus. There is so much Biblical truth written in this memoir, and the way Lara writes is poetic, intelligent, and beautiful–drawing you deep into the moments of despair and hope as you walk alongside her and Matt. I feel like I’ve known them for years, especially Lara, as we’ve gotten to talk back and forth since I acquired her book, which made this story all the more heartbreaking and impactful. There is much wisdom to be found in these pages, and somehow, I felt like one of the kids in the youth group Matt so dearly loved. Whenever he shared his thoughts and knowledge, it sank deep into my heart, encouraging me and making me want a stronger faith like his. This book is a mentor to all, regardless of age. I believe anyone will benefit from reading it.

Matt would be proud of Singing Through Fire, Lara. I know it. Not only does it glorify God amid suffering, proving He sustains us in the fire, but it also honors a man of God whose life and testimony will transform people’s hearts from all generations, softening them and bringing them closer to the God we love and serve.

“Test to testimony.”

Our stories are some of the most powerful instruments in the hands of God–evidence of the Gospel and His sustaining grace. They are meant to be shared, and I praise God Lara has shared hers.

First Impression 5/5
The introduction instantaneously piqued my interest as it laid the groundwork for the memoir and its contents. Despite the heavy topics–death, cancer, illness, grief–there was a joy and lightheartedness between the lines. The peace of God shone through the pain and heartache. I found the story’s layout–separated into four Acts like that of a screenplay–unique and creative. Singing Through Fire is based on the testimony of Lara and her late husband, Matt. But even though it’s true, their story is written like a lovable and heartbreaking novel you can’t put down. Lara takes you on a journey from the start of page one with a prologue that draws you into an emotional scene. Despite just getting to know the characters of this memoir, I couldn’t help feeling attached the moment I read the first sentence. Right off the bat, we see how real Matt and Lara are in their suffering and turmoil. Their emotions also help visualize a story promising to be filled with wisdom, light, and hope.

Character Development 5/5
I don’t usually consider character development in nonfiction, but Singing Through Fire calls for it. The growth in Lara’s faith and perspective on life is one only God can bring. Watching her step away from her lukewarm, prosperity gospel type beliefs into the everlasting truth of God’s Word was beautiful. It also showcases the importance of being equally yoked with your spouse. Matt performed the image of a spiritual leader in a humble, wise way, never failing to bring out a stronger faith in Lara. Through his terminal cancer, her chronic illness, and all the hardships to follow, you can’t ignore how their faith grows. Nor does Lara hide her raw vulnerability; instead, she leaves everything bare to better showcase the grace of God.

World-Building 5/5
This “world-building” rating isn’t necessarily based on the setting (though that was equally well-written) but more so the structure of Lara’s relationship with God in the thick of struggle. She paints the most beautiful pictures as she recounts her life story. Even while bedridden for three years–and continuing on and off–Lara’s walk with God grew, and it was vibrantly described, emphasizing the heightened intimacy of her relationship with Jesus. Creativity, love, joy, sorrow, and laughter exuded from the pages, building the story into one of transformation.

Writing Style 5/5
Lara’s words flowed easily. The idea of sectioning the book into four Acts was brilliant. I adored the splash of humor and sarcasm in Lara’s personality and writing. Singing Through Fire is crafted in an astounding way, leaving no doubt that God wanted this book written–for Lara, me, and others. But ultimately, written for Him. Every page seemed to point back to God as the anchor of hope in the storm. He was and is their strength, peace, and life.
Along with Lara and Matt’s testimonies, the amount of Scripture on every page added even more life to the words. Most of Lara’s writing was Biblically inspired as she studied God’s Word and compared her suffering and all she was learning through its lens. Like her character growth, we see her grow in knowledge as she feeds her zealousness for God through His Word.

Emotions 5/5
Tears pricked my eyes when I read the first pages, so you can imagine how the rest of the story made me cry. Lara doesn’t hide the pain and suffering she and Matt faced. She doesn’t sugarcoat the ups and downs or brush over the fact that life is hard. It’s painful, and it can feel hopeless. But even in the valley of death and despair, the hope and peace of God shone from this story. I could sense His presence even while sobbing until my head hurt. Because suffering, though often unwanted and difficult, brings people together in a beautiful way. It connected me to this memoir and provided me with a new friend in Lara. I was surprised that it wasn’t all gloom and sorrow, too. The humor made me laugh more than any nonfiction book I’ve read, which is unusually delightful considering this is a memoir on suffering and grief. Lara’s jokes and satirical approach to situations and big questions never failed to put a smile on my face. It reminded me of Proverbs 31:25. Joy is often our greatest weapon against sorrow, even when we can’t feel it.

Cleanliness 5/5
Lara courageously tackles all the brutal details of chronic illness and terminal cancer, which some readers may find triggering. She dives deep into her grief and despair of death, terminal illness, and overwhelming fear of what’s to come. But she did so in a way that provided hope. Even during the constant pain, spinning, brain zaps, vomiting, CAT scans, surgeries, and everything in between, there was never a lack of opportunity for Matt and Lara’s faith to grow. Though these heartbreaking realities of their illnesses were challenging to read, they showcased God’s mighty strength in the face of helplessness. The way He transformed both of their faith is like a ripple effect, a spark that will leave every reader changed from soul to breath. Yes, the sorrow is intense. My heart broke. The tears poured. But so did the hope and joy because of the promise of eternity.

Conclusion 5/5
The last pages of Singing Through Fire will undoubtedly bring soul-aching grief. I struggled to finish the book because I could barely see the words as tears blinded me. It was hard to read how things ended in so many different ways. I could feel Lara’s pain on a level I never knew possible. But the message, even after Matt’s passing, echoed the power of God’s life-changing grace. “The story’s not over yet.” No, with God, every “ending” is a new beginning. This book is a reminder of what’s important and how anything done without God is meaningless. But everything done for God is filled with an eternal purpose. Singing Through Fire was five stars all around and a new favorite book. I can’t recommend it enough, and look forward to seeing how God uses this story for His glory!

Here are some of my favorite quotes (I say “some” because I literally would’ve highlighted the whole book):

“If just one more life is saved because of my suffering, I am happy to go through it again.”

“Life is a precious gift–we don’t waste it, but we don’t idolize it either.”

“Sometimes it’s in our greatest sufferings that God gives us the best opportunities.”

“The Christian may not always be healthy, but he is always loved.”

“When you stop clinging to the illusion that you’ll live on this earth forever and you’re not afraid to die, that’s ironically when you really start living. You start choosing life–not just for here and now, but for eternity.”

“…the God of Christianity doesn’t just allow suffering in this world. He entered into it when He suffered on the cross. ‘That’s not a distant God who ignores suffering. That’s a God who bled for us.'”

“We were never meant to be the source of our own strength.”

Final Rating: 5/5 stars

Recommended Age: all ages, but those 13 and younger read with discretion concerning the heavy topics discussed

Genres: Christian, memoir, nonfiction, grief, romance

!Trigger Warnings!
Death, grief, terminal illness, chronic illness, anxiety, fear, depression

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was recommended to me by my writer friend, Penny Childers. She was lucky enough to meet Lara Silverman at an event & was immensely impressed with her. I couldn’t wait until her book came out & found out a few days before release day that it was on Kindle Unlimited. So I started reading it right away. It was offered today on Amazon on Kindle on sale, so I immediately bought a copy to keep on my Kindle to review when I need to. Lara’s dream of becoming a Judge was cut short during her early days as a Lawyer by a sudden chronic illness that would for 3 years go without a firm diagnosis & treatment & meant laying flat in bed to curb the symptoms. During this time, she met an amazing man named Matt Silverman. Matt was going through his own health crisis - childhood cancer that had returned with a vengeance. Their love grew & grew, resulting in marriage. It was a dream of Lara’s to marry an Armenian man & she found the perfect one for her. But he came with a load of his own health issues. Both used the power of their faith to get them through their day with their heavy illness load. Lara had this quote in the beginning of her book - “Sarcasm fuels me and comedy sustains me.” Her book is full of witty & sarcastic comments in between the bouts of love & fear. She found a wonderful man to marry, only to have him taken away from her shortly after their 1st anniversary. I was so amazed as to how they brought joy & life into dying. “We can’t choose our circumstances, but we can choose our response” is a quote in this book I loved. Lara & Matt found things to fear in their lives but Matt lived his purposeful life full of purpose until the end. He remained so positive. Matt loved Lara like I wish we could all find someone to love us. He fell in love with her long before they connected. Matt said “we have joy when facing death because heaven is worth dying for” & he lived this quote strongly. People were so important to Matt & he kept them in his life to the end. Lara’s view of heaven was a revelation to me that I now want to continue to believe. Matt was an amazing man & Lara was so lucky to have him in her life for as long as she did - sure wish he could still be there. Lara rose out of her 3 year bedridden state to try to at least be upright for a while during her day & try to enjoy life. Matt helped her to live a dream she had. Lara is still dealing with her chronic health issues & we can all learn from her. Singing through Fire should be our motto, too. Read this book. We can all learn lessons on how to live our lives day to day by Lara & Matt. Live your life & live it well so we can all hear “well done good & faithful servant” in the end.

[Loraine Nunley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh. My. Word. I’m almost speechless. Hang on while I attempt to articulate my experience reading this memoir…

This story was fabulous in such a gut wrenching way. It’s honest, gritty, romantic, desperate, humbling, heart-wrenching, and uplifting. Yes, it is all of that and more.

Everyone struggles with the trials God allows us to go through, but not everyone holds as tight to their faith and God as Lara’s husband Matthew. He was a man worth knowing, even if it is only from reading about him through the lens of his loving wife.

Lara pulls no punches about her struggles with her faith but the important message is that, rather than let her trials push her away from God, she leans into Him. Her wonderfully exuberant personality and sarcasm made me laugh out loud, sometimes forgetting that she was living day-to-day with a debilitating illness. And their romance, sigh. Everyone should experience such a deep and beautiful love, even if only for a short time.

I’ve never had a book make me ugly cry, but this one tore me apart. Yet in the midst of their struggles, God shows up and His glory shines. Every page is filled with God’s word. This is a must read.

I received this book complimentary as a participant of the JustRead reviewer tour. I was not required to give a positive review. All of the opinions I have expressed here are honest and my own.

[Kristin McTiernan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Singing through Fire is such an emotional rollercoaster, bringing you through a love story, grief, the grit of dealing with chronic illness, and the heartbreak of loss. The story is told so skillfully and every believer can probably relate to the struggles the author has with her faith. It's a thick book but it goes so fast because you can't put it down!

[Nerdy Biblio · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lara reached out to me and asked if I would read an arc of her book, and also if my church book club would read it! (They are reading it now for the month of September 2025)

This book is a roller-coaster of emotions ranging from laughter to tears and back again.
I love the book of Job and Lucille Ball, and this is truly a Job meets Lucy story!

Lara has such an amazing way of sprinkling her humour throughout her life in this book amongst her struggles, frustrations and suffering.

I love that there is so much scripture reference and that it is in context even when it was hard for Lara to trust in God, she kept true to His word and not a version of it some might prefer.

Matt... Wow, he is someone I want to grow up to be (Lara too, I need to laugh more!) Matt's unshakable faith... the way he trusted in God and always pointed people to God. (I did not know him, but the way Lara talks about him in her book, I feel like I do! I truly wish I would have had a chance to know him. I will some day!)

Lara's internal thoughts/questions on paper towards, about God, and her struggles are soo relatable. She made me feel like I was not alone in feeling/asking similar things. The eternal struggle is real, But So Is GOD! And He wants and cares about those thoughts, feelings and questions, and He wants us to bring them to Him, He can handle them.

Thank you so much Lara for following God's path and putting your and Matt's story into a book. I know this is going to touch so many lives!

[Caroline Laredo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Courage in Every Note
Singing through Fire is a stirring and deeply human journey through resilience, courage, and self-discovery. Lara Silverman, J.D., captures the raw ache of hardship while illuminating the strength to rise above it. Both poetic and powerful, this book reminds us that even in the ashes, our voices can still soar.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Singing Through Fire follows Lara, a brilliant young lawyer whose life takes an unexpected turn when chronic illness derails her dream career. Told in four acts, the memoir reads like a stage play filled with drama, sarcasm, faith, and raw honesty. It begins with her legal triumphs, then moves into the heartbreak of physical collapse, spiritual wrestling, and an ongoing struggle to reconcile suffering with belief in a loving God. Alongside this journey of pain, there’s also humor, romance, family loyalty, and moments of surprising joy. The book is not just about illness. It’s about the human fight to make sense of loss and to keep faith alive when everything feels upside down.

What I enjoyed most was the voice. Lara writes with sharp wit, biting humor, and a willingness to laugh at herself even in the darkest places. One moment I was laughing at her courtroom jokes, the next I was gutted by her descriptions of vertigo so severe the world spun out of control. The style isn’t polished in the way some memoirs try to be. It’s messy, emotional, and jagged, which makes it all the more real. I found myself pulled into her contradictions: one page proclaiming trust in God, the next shaking her fist at Him. That tension felt authentic, and it gave me permission to admit my own doubts instead of pretending to have tidy answers.

Sometimes the sarcasm felt like a shield. I admired her honesty but also felt exhausted by the relentlessness of the struggle. She doesn’t shy away from bitterness or raw complaint, which made the book heavy in stretches. Yet, that same rawness is what gave the story its power. In those rare moments of light, when hope cracked through, it felt earned.

This isn’t a book for someone looking for neat answers or a “how-to” on suffering. It’s for anyone who’s been angry at God, who’s wrestled with pain that makes no sense, who’s felt cheated by life and still dared to hope. Singing Through Fire is a raw, funny, and heartbreaking read that stays with you. I’d recommend it to anyone who values honesty over polish and wants to see what it looks like to keep stumbling forward in the dark with faith still flickering.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ll start by saying I haven’t even finished this book, but already it’s a five-star read. When her introduction included, “Sarcasm fuels me, and comedy sustains me. You’ve been warned,” I figured Lara Silverman and I would get along just fine. She’s an attorney, I’m an attorney. She’s sarcastic, I’m sarcastic. She’s funny, I’m…well, sometimes I’m funny on accident. It’s practically like we’re related!

And this book, y’all. Silverman wrote it to share her story of “navigating faith in the face of suffering.” Pretty sure we can all relate to that. How many times have you asked God why He let something happen? Me, I’ve done that quite often. My challenges haven’t been nearly as daunting as Silverman’s. She’s stricken by a mystery ailment that incapacitates her and leaves her literally bedridden, and no medical treatment seems to bring improvement. And yet, in the midst, God is faithful to sustain her. She walks us through her struggles to learn to trust God, her wrestling with Scripture and faith, and her spiritual growth in the midst of her personal storm.

I’m just getting to the start of Lara and Matt’s love story. I’m pretty sure the ending of the book is going to have me sobbing, so I’ve got tissues at the ready. And I had no idea how much this book would speak to me. If you’re having a hard time wondering how to hang on to your faith, how to trust that God is really going to strengthen you and walk with you through the fires of life, you NEED THIS BOOK. It’s in the running for one of my favorites of 2025.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from JustRead Publicity Tours. I was not required to leave a review. All opinions here are mine, and I don't say nice things about books I don't actually like.

[Wren · Rating 5 out of 5]

I hardly know where to begin as I share my thoughts about Lara Silverman's Singing Through Fire: A Memoir of Finding Surprising Joy in Life's Darkest Trials. What do you say about a book that includes great love, searing loss, a growing faith that at times feels beyond reach or even belief...and then, of all things, hilarity? That's what you'll find in Silverman's book.

Silverman's voice brings us through all her devastating (yet also joyful) experiences as if we're her dearest friends, those whom she trusts with her deepest joys AND trials. And her trials are fiery! Her undiagnosable illness, her years of being bedridden, the way the world literally spins if she turns her head slightly; it's unimaginable. Yet she describes it so well, that we *can* imagine. (Though we might never wish to!)

Her walk of faith is encouraging and instructive (though Lara never assumes the role of teacher; always of friend and fellow journeyer). Watching her learn to hear more deeply from God is beautiful. Incredible. And then, there's the guy. Matt, her dear friend and supporter, who suddenly becomes something more.

There's loads more of Lara's story. Her memoir has all the things I've mentioned, and many more I haven't. What I must leave you with, finally, is that this is one book you cannot miss. Faith, fire, abiding love, joy. And more. You won't be able to put this book down; and you'll never forget it.

I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions shared here are my own honest ones.

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

My heart has been filled with so many emotions by this memoir. Lara Silverman takes the reader on a raw and heartfelt journey through not only her own health crisis, but that of her husband, Matthew Silverman. It’s not the typical love story you tend to come across in books, which for me, made it so much more impactful.

Just as her career in law is beginning, Lara collapses and is subsequently bedridden for years with little to no answers or treatments. Her faith and hope are strong during this time, though, not without confusion. After much trial and error and waiting, Lara resolves to ‘move or die’.

Despite being confined to the house, a relationship eventually blossoms with Matthew. He’s devout in his faith and offers much comfort to Lara. As a childhood cancer survivor, he’s experienced debilitating ailments firsthand. Sadly, he soon finds out that he has once again developed cancer. Once again, Lara wonders ‘why’. She’s been brought together with a man that she loves, yet it often looks like the two of them are in a waiting game to be called home to Eternal Life.

Though the book is largely focused on illness, it’s told with an optimistic spirit, even when things look their bleakest. As a Christian myself, I appreciated reading this perspective on things that I’ve not had to experience firsthand. There are moments of happiness and song woven throughout, providing reprieve from the moments of sorrow.

A huge thanks to the author for inviting me to read a free digital ARC of the book!

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly enjoy reading Memoirs and they really spark something when reading. Singing Through Fire by Lara Silverman, J.D. is the latest Memoir I have read and it sure was a roller coaster of emotions.

WOW, this memoir is the BEST one that I have ever read. Lara went from working her dream job to being Bed-Ridden for 4yrs. She feels like she has lost everything, then Matt Silverman comes into her life. Matt is a Youth Pastor facing Terminal Cancer. Lara's Chronic Illness keeps her in the house often, yet she began to realize that Matt was a God Given Gift to her and they become Husband and Wife. I truly LOVE how through all the Medical situations and hurdles, they found the Joy and LOVE in their relationship. Matt's Faith and Trust in God, really gave Lara the encouragement she needed to Trust God instead asking why he allowed the Chronic Illness in her and Cancer in Matt. I LOVE how Lara and Matt not only create a relationship with each other, but their faith is strengthened. The LOVE, Laughter, late night Music Jams and more are just a few things that made their marriage so amazing. Lara rejoices in the short time she had with Matt and that God's purpose in bringing them together was a part of "her Story". Lara still suffers with chronic illness, but she knows her pain has a purpose! I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Memoirs. Be ready for a emotional roller coaster, although a GREAT one, while reading this book. FANTASTIC BOOK!

[Rosalyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't often read and post reviews on memoirs here.

But when I first read the synopsis of this book, I knew I had to read it!

It is the kind of story that makes you question life. And yet... through it all, there is HOPE. JOY. TRUST. And more! And her story is not over yet!

What did I love about this book? The author's voice! What kept gripping me, over and over AGAIN! Was the JOY that I felt. Coming from someone who is living one day at a time?! Yes! It is humanly impossible! And I feel sure that this author would say the only way she was able to keep on living this way - God's Grace!

This book is highly encouraging, inspirational, challenging, and so much more!

I loved the humor mixed in - yes, you read that right! Not only is this gal living with joy, one day at a time, she is able to share about her journey with HUMOR!

What a wonderful God we serve!

This is truly an unforgettable story! I Highly recommend this read!!

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

[Madison · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I just want to give such a thank you to Lara. Without her reaching out to ask me to read her book, I never would have picked it up and been impacted so deeply.

This was my first memoir, not just of the year but in my entire reading life, and I truly don’t think I could have picked a better one to start with. Singing Through Fire is such a raw and powerful story about faith, grief, and holding on to hope when everything feels uncertain. Lara Silverman shares her journey with such honesty and heart that it’s impossible not to feel every bit of what she went through.

I highlighted more in this book than I think I ever have before. Each chapter was filled with moments that made me pause and reflect, both on her story and on my own faith. I found myself reflecting on God’s goodness even through my own pain and uncertainty, reminded that He never stops working in the background, even when we can’t see it yet.

What really struck me was how deeply personal yet universally relatable Lara’s story felt. It’s about loss and healing, but it’s also about choosing kindness, trusting in God’s plan, and learning to see the beauty in brokenness. I immediately went out and bought part one of Matt’s writing after finishing because I wasn’t ready to step away from the reminder of how powerfully God moves through people and stories.

[Faye Sherron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fire... a frightening foe - a cleansing corrective - a warming wonder

When i first began to read this memoir, i believed it was just another whiny 'Christian testimony'.
i am joyfully delighted to proclaim, "It is not!"
i have a library of hundreds of biographical and autobiographical tales and am so pleased to add this to the tomes with this pleasing and encouraging difference: it is immediate and real...
Lara Silverman's journey appeals because i have, too, experienced the mental, spiritual, and(and some, but NOT by any means as many) physical incidents of anguish and yet, here in this tale is a way through the wilderness of despair that i have discovered someone else has traveled.
Mine is a different chronicle, as intimately, intricately, and infinitely different as DNA is, by Divine Design, but a soul-searing similarity...
If one is willing to embrace a truly unique way of enduring suffering, believing God is really LOVE and that God IS GOOD, then this story will resonate Hope and purpose; God's will is ultimately Grander and beyond our finite understanding...
"Know ye not that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture." Psalm100:3 (think: Good Shepherd - John, chapter 10, especially vs.11) Psalm 23
If possible, i hope to buy hard copies...

[Katelyn Friesen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Through humor, song, tears, and laughter you are taken through the love story of Lara and Matt Silverman and how through unexplainable suffering, they found true Hope in their hopeless circumstances through turning to Jesus again and again and again. You’ll laugh then you’ll cry then you’ll laugh again as you feel like a third wheel in their love story and the story of Lara’s life of pain. Through creative writing, Lara takes you through rough, beyond suffering circumstances, and how she coped with Jesus as her stronghold. This book is perfect for groups like griefshare or other grief groups, widows, chronic illness warriors, and people who experience chronic comprehensive sufferings. I went into this book thinking it would be a heavy read, and yes, as Lara and Matt experience heavy sufferings and explore heavy topics it gets heavy, but I felt like it was such a breath of fresh air with how the author creatively intersperses humor and music throughout her memoir! A must read for all! Especially if you like to experience a full range of emotions in your reading!

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

This memoir is as personal as any book I've ever read. Silverman does not hold anything back, and because of that, you feel like you are going on this painful--but often still joyful--ordeal with her. It is a remarkable story of broken dreams, love, suffering, grief, family, friendship, joy, and eternal hope. My faith has been sharpened and deepened because Silverman's candor allowed me to wrestle with my own difficult questions and to test the integrity of my faith in the process. So many books like this use our hope of heaven to smooth over the real and personal challenges of suffering. This book does the opposite; it is by truly facing our greatest fears and questions for God--whether we get answers or not--that causes us to see our eternal hope from the proper perspective and to long for it even more.

[Julie Owen Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honest and real. As someone who also has a chronic, invisible illness, this book resonated on a deep level. Lara shares her honest doubts as she struggles with severe illness, the loss of her career, and the death of her husband. She dares to ask the real "Why" questions of God, and shares the growth of her faith throughout the book. She also shares the testimony of her husband, and the ways in which he strengthened her faith. Scripture is laced throughout this book, and Lara shares the ways in which she relied on the Word, as well as encouragement from friends and family, to find strength for each day. I highly recommend this book to anyone struggling with sickness and/or grief, or to anyone contemplating why bad things happen to us. Throughout Lara's story, she maintains her sense of humor, which is an incredible blessing for her, and a real treat for the reader.

[Mae]

This book reads much like a novel that's hard to put down! Immediately I was pulled into the authors life, and captivated with her story of suffering, pain, love, and hope all wrapped in one. I love her honesty and transparency with the real life struggles and in the questions of why, but how she kept her faith firmly planted in God through it all. Lara Silverman certainly has learned how to sing through the fire, and I had the joy of talking with her personally on my podcast. Her faith and joy is Jesus is so refreshing!! She's the real deal! Singing Through the Fire will challenge you and inspire you cling closer to the One in whom gives her the strength & joy to carry on one day at a time!!!

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful book! Lara, just before starting her career as a lawyer, is struck with an illness that keeps her bedridden. Matt, one of her friends, continues to encourage her in her faith, and they soon fall in love. Should they marry, considering Lara’s illness? Matt himself is battling stage 4 cancer. They do marry, and this is their story. But it is more than a love story. It also is a story of her struggles with her faith and a loving God who allows suffering. As a Christian, and a cancer survivor, and spouse of a cancer survivor, I could relate to her questions, doubts, and struggles. However, just as she discovered, I have found that joy and grief can exist together, and that Jesus is walking with me through the fires of life.

[Lori Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Singing Through Fire is a book I’ll be recommending to friends for years to come. Through her own illness and the loss of her husband, Lara Silverman writes with courageous transparency about suffering, but also with an unrelenting trust in God’s presence and purpose in pain. She writes, “Hope is the most powerful thing a Christian has,” and that contagious hope flows through her every page. It’s a beautiful testimony for anyone longing to see God’s light in the darkest places. If you need someone to walk with you when this fragile life feels impossible, this book will impact your journey in the best ways.

[Sherry Vycital · Rating 5 out of 5]

Glorious testimony

Matt and Lara Silverman’s journey and honest sharing of seeking God, hoping for healing in their pain, and finding joy in the midst of their sufferings will inspire you to seek God in your trials. Even when God says, “No,” or our prayers are not answered the way we expect, God’s unfailing love holds and lifts us up. This beautiful memoir will bless you. Thank you, Lara, for sharing your stories. God bless you!

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lara's memoir is one that you won't want to put down. You will fall in love with her and Matt and you will be inspired by their faith as they face unthinkable hardships. Lara is honest and transparent and draws you into her story with every page. Her story will challenge the way you view your life and your sorrows and it will focus your heart on the promises of Heaven. You will laugh, you will cry and you will walk away changed. This is an absolute must read!

[Michelle Bader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Out of the countless books I’ve devoured over the years, this one stands out as one of my absolute favorites. Singing Through Fire is the remarkable true story of Lara Silverman— a woman who has endured unimaginable suffering, from years of debilitating vertigo and illness to the heartbreak of losing her husband and becoming a young widow.

What moved me most is how, through every season of pain, Lara clung to her faith. She never grew bitter — instead, she found purpose, hope, and even joy in the middle of the fire. Her writing is beautifully honest, often laugh-out-loud funny, deeply inspiring, and full of wisdom.
If you love true stories of resilience, courage, and unwavering hope, I can’t recommend this book enough. ❤️ Singing Through Fire is more than just a book — it’s a testimony of faith and strength that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.