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Remnants #1
Faith Departed
Starting a family was supposed to be easy.
Twin sisters June and July have never encountered an obstacle they couldn’t overcome. Married just after graduating college, the girls and their husbands remained a close-knit group. Now settled and successful, the next logical step is children.
But as the couples struggle to conceive, each must reconcile the goodness of God with their present suffering. Will their faith be strong enough to triumph in the midst of trial?
Faith Departed is the first book in a Christian Women's Fiction series that walks along side two couples as they navigate the sometimes-painful, sometimes-hopeful waters of infertility. Buy your copy today to begin a journey with characters so real, you'll want them for your friends.
Twin sisters June and July have never encountered an obstacle they couldn’t overcome. Married just after graduating college, the girls and their husbands remained a close-knit group. Now settled and successful, the next logical step is children.
But as the couples struggle to conceive, each must reconcile the goodness of God with their present suffering. Will their faith be strong enough to triumph in the midst of trial?
Faith Departed is the first book in a Christian Women's Fiction series that walks along side two couples as they navigate the sometimes-painful, sometimes-hopeful waters of infertility. Buy your copy today to begin a journey with characters so real, you'll want them for your friends.
239 pages, ebook
First published March 1, 2014
79 people are currently reading
248 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Maddrey
69 books251 followersUSA Today bestselling author Elizabeth Maddrey is a semi-reformed computer geek and homeschooling mother of two who lives in the suburbs of Washington D.C. When she isn’t writing, Elizabeth is a voracious consumer of books. She loves to write about Christians who struggle through their lives, dealing with sin and receiving God’s grace on their way to their own romantic happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
April 5, 2014
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review, which I am giving.
I really liked Faith Departed. It was a bit hard for me to get into at first, and I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy it. Once I got into the story, it was very hard to put down! Faith Departed is a quick read, and the story is very moving.
June and July are twins who have always shared everything with each other, but that changes as they become adults and involved in their own lives and marriages. Each is thinking of starting a family. Unfortunately, this becomes a bit of a stumbling block in their relationship. They've always told each other things, yet when one becomes pregnant before the other, she doesn't share the news with the other right away. This leads to a gradual rift between the women. Add this to the fact that June's job is extremely stressful, thus her marriage begins to suffer as well.
The story takes us through the struggle of infertility, loss, and faith. It deals with loss of faith when God seems to be withholding children from those who want them. It also deals with how hard infertility can be on marriage as well as other relationships. I really appreciated the honesty of doubting God when things don't go the way we think they should. I look forward to reading more about June and July and their faith.
This review originally appeared on my blog Christy's Cozy Corners.
I really liked Faith Departed. It was a bit hard for me to get into at first, and I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy it. Once I got into the story, it was very hard to put down! Faith Departed is a quick read, and the story is very moving.
June and July are twins who have always shared everything with each other, but that changes as they become adults and involved in their own lives and marriages. Each is thinking of starting a family. Unfortunately, this becomes a bit of a stumbling block in their relationship. They've always told each other things, yet when one becomes pregnant before the other, she doesn't share the news with the other right away. This leads to a gradual rift between the women. Add this to the fact that June's job is extremely stressful, thus her marriage begins to suffer as well.
The story takes us through the struggle of infertility, loss, and faith. It deals with loss of faith when God seems to be withholding children from those who want them. It also deals with how hard infertility can be on marriage as well as other relationships. I really appreciated the honesty of doubting God when things don't go the way we think they should. I look forward to reading more about June and July and their faith.
This review originally appeared on my blog Christy's Cozy Corners.
June 27, 2014
First love, then marriage, then….infertility treatments
Faith Departed deals with a tough topic that affects roughly one in eight couples: infertility. Though a painful subject, Maddrey does a good job of handling it through realistic scenarios. The main character, June, not only must deal with infertility, but other life stresses as well--in this case, problems at work. This was similar to my own infertility experience, during which my dad was dying from ALS.
The characters were realistic and questioned their faith. Having experienced infertility, I could easily identify with many of the struggles that the characters experienced. Also, Maddrey did a good job of including the POV of the men in the story (Toby and Gareth). Men and women handle infertility differently. Sometimes, these differences can be a source of discord among infertile couples.
I would recommend this book to infertile couples. During my infertility journey, it was sometimes hard to read story after story where the hero and heroine get married and a month later (usually in the prologue) have a baby. It’s nice to see a story that depicts the harsh reality that many couples face.
I’d also recommend the book to others who know someone experiencing infertility. It can be hard to understand the heartaches infertile couples face, but this story does a good job of providing an inside look into the lives of infertile couples.
I’d also recommend this book to anyone who has suffered a miscarriage, as this topic is discussed as well.
I received an e-copy of Faith Departed from the author in exchange for an honest review. In full disclosure I am also one of the authors Elizabeth mentioned in the upcoming infertility devotional.
Faith Departed deals with a tough topic that affects roughly one in eight couples: infertility. Though a painful subject, Maddrey does a good job of handling it through realistic scenarios. The main character, June, not only must deal with infertility, but other life stresses as well--in this case, problems at work. This was similar to my own infertility experience, during which my dad was dying from ALS.
The characters were realistic and questioned their faith. Having experienced infertility, I could easily identify with many of the struggles that the characters experienced. Also, Maddrey did a good job of including the POV of the men in the story (Toby and Gareth). Men and women handle infertility differently. Sometimes, these differences can be a source of discord among infertile couples.
I would recommend this book to infertile couples. During my infertility journey, it was sometimes hard to read story after story where the hero and heroine get married and a month later (usually in the prologue) have a baby. It’s nice to see a story that depicts the harsh reality that many couples face.
I’d also recommend the book to others who know someone experiencing infertility. It can be hard to understand the heartaches infertile couples face, but this story does a good job of providing an inside look into the lives of infertile couples.
I’d also recommend this book to anyone who has suffered a miscarriage, as this topic is discussed as well.
I received an e-copy of Faith Departed from the author in exchange for an honest review. In full disclosure I am also one of the authors Elizabeth mentioned in the upcoming infertility devotional.
May 10, 2014
Elizabeth Maddrey’s well-constructed tale of two couple’s struggles with infertility is told with honesty and sensitivity. The main characters, twin sisters June and July, simultaneously decide it’s time to start a family. That’s the natural progression after marriage, right? But as Robbie Burns so aptly put it in his poem of old: “The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry.” Month after month, June is frustrated by negative pregnancy tests, and her obsession with having a baby takes a toll on her marriage. When July announces her pregnancy within weeks of first trying, it is almost more than June can stand, and jealousy wedges its way into the sister’s relationship.
June and July could be your neighbor, friend, or family member suffering with a painfully realistic struggle. For anyone who has ever wrestled with infertility and pregnancy loss, this story will hit home. While reading, there were times I found myself cringing with my own memories, and Maddrey’s description of the emotions, anger, frustration, and jealousy her characters experience is spot-on. Maddrey does not sugar coat June and July’s struggle with God as they wonder—does God care at all? Is he punishing me by rendering me barren as he did with women in the bible? Do I really trust him? Can my faith ever be mended?
I love the way she handled this increasingly common problem for women. She also skillfully points out a sad truth: this issue is woefully mishandled in the church by insensitive comments or silence. This is a bold and courageous piece and will no doubt help many women in the same dilemma.
June and July could be your neighbor, friend, or family member suffering with a painfully realistic struggle. For anyone who has ever wrestled with infertility and pregnancy loss, this story will hit home. While reading, there were times I found myself cringing with my own memories, and Maddrey’s description of the emotions, anger, frustration, and jealousy her characters experience is spot-on. Maddrey does not sugar coat June and July’s struggle with God as they wonder—does God care at all? Is he punishing me by rendering me barren as he did with women in the bible? Do I really trust him? Can my faith ever be mended?
I love the way she handled this increasingly common problem for women. She also skillfully points out a sad truth: this issue is woefully mishandled in the church by insensitive comments or silence. This is a bold and courageous piece and will no doubt help many women in the same dilemma.
May 7, 2014
If you are looking for a quick, Christian read that has humor and an emotional storyline, this may be the book for you. There is nothing objectionable in the book, and the story concludes with a promise. The writing is simple but meaningful. And for anyone who has struggled with infertility, this is a book written from the author's experience. It is a fantastic reminder that we cannot always understand why God allows bad things to happen to good people.
For me, the story was a little better than mediocre, but I would have preferred a little more meat in the tale. In addition to this, the Christian message was there, but not as robust as I like. Notwithstanding, this book is well-written and touching. You will probably fall in love with the twins--I know I did!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
For me, the story was a little better than mediocre, but I would have preferred a little more meat in the tale. In addition to this, the Christian message was there, but not as robust as I like. Notwithstanding, this book is well-written and touching. You will probably fall in love with the twins--I know I did!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
August 3, 2014
Amazing book! I can't get the twin sisters, June and July, out of my head. This story is an emotional experience of the lives and struggles of sisters and their husbands as they journey toward having children. When things aren't working out like they want, each woman questions their purpose and why things are being so hard. It's true life portrayed. I feel for June and July and for all the women out there who've struggled with infertility. This book puts the reader right there with the couples and all that they are going through, yet underlying it all is current of hope. Are we willing to trust in God in all of our circumstances...no matter what happens? I highly recommend this book and the series, and of course, the author, Elizabeth Maddrey. Thanks to the publisher for providing me a complimentary copy of this book. I loved it!
July 17, 2014
The hope of nearly all little girls is to become a wife and a mother, but what if as an adult the dream of bearing children was not a reality? This is the situation twins June and July find themselves in in Faith Departed. Elizabeth Maddrey has taken this issue and delicately exposed the thoughts, hurts, and fears of these twins. While their infertility issues are different, many of the same emotions are shared by both. Having walked this road of desiring children and being unable to conceive and bear children I could relate to the fears, disappointments, and hurts expressed by these women. I really enjoy this author and the way she handles life issues from a Christian perspective. This is the first book in the Remnants series, followed by Hope Deferred as the second, with the third book, Love Defined being released in December 2014.
April 11, 2014
thought this was a good story of two sisters whose faith is tested when they try to conceive. I thought the names were interesting, June and July (pronounced Julie). I felt sorry for June in her work situation and having to deal with a vindictive coworker and HR person. I think that both June & Toby and July and Gareth all learned something in their situations.
January 3, 2019
This isn't really what I normally read, being women's fiction instead of YA. However, I liked the different perspective and the story. Reading about married adult women was very different than reading about teenagers, in that I couldn't really relate to them yet. This story did take me a while to get into it at first, but once I did, I breezed through it.
I will say, June kind of annoyed me. Although we get perspectives from all four characters--June, her twin July, and both of their husbands, Toby and Gareth--we see the most from June. I think there was a part where Toby said June was acting like a petulant teenager. Yeah, that's how she felt throughout most of the book.
I realize that I cannot even begin to imagine what June is going through. Trying to get pregnant and failing, dealing with crap at work, and now her twin is hiding things from her. But at the same time, I felt like June made so many bad decisions from selfishness. She blamed everyone else for not seeing things her way, especially Toby, who bore the brunt of things.
Surprisingly, I think I understood/related to Toby the most. But then, I've always joked that I'm going to be the "guy" in my relationships (sorry future hubs). I did like that we got to see perspectives from both his and Gareth's point of view, as it added more interest and dimension to the story.
This was a very deep and spiritual book, yet realistic. Although maybe I personally can't relate because I'm not there yet, this is definitely a book that I think lots of women can relate to. I don't feel like everything was completely resolved in the end, but it was still an enjoyable read, one that I would recommend if you are looking for some good, realistic spiritual fiction.
I received a copy from the author, this did not affect my honest opinion.
This review first appears on The NerdHerd Reads
I will say, June kind of annoyed me. Although we get perspectives from all four characters--June, her twin July, and both of their husbands, Toby and Gareth--we see the most from June. I think there was a part where Toby said June was acting like a petulant teenager. Yeah, that's how she felt throughout most of the book.
I realize that I cannot even begin to imagine what June is going through. Trying to get pregnant and failing, dealing with crap at work, and now her twin is hiding things from her. But at the same time, I felt like June made so many bad decisions from selfishness. She blamed everyone else for not seeing things her way, especially Toby, who bore the brunt of things.
Surprisingly, I think I understood/related to Toby the most. But then, I've always joked that I'm going to be the "guy" in my relationships (sorry future hubs). I did like that we got to see perspectives from both his and Gareth's point of view, as it added more interest and dimension to the story.
This was a very deep and spiritual book, yet realistic. Although maybe I personally can't relate because I'm not there yet, this is definitely a book that I think lots of women can relate to. I don't feel like everything was completely resolved in the end, but it was still an enjoyable read, one that I would recommend if you are looking for some good, realistic spiritual fiction.
I received a copy from the author, this did not affect my honest opinion.
This review first appears on The NerdHerd Reads
July 19, 2019
I actually started this book a long time ago, and bogged down 45% through. One of the main characters was wallowing for so long, I needed a break. I finally decided to finish reading, because Elizabeth Maddrey is one of my favorite authors. It turns out the character wallows for 90% of the book. However, since it's a 3 book series, I'm hoping for more hope in #2.
The reason I still gave this 4 stars is that the wallowing is very realistic. We women can be that way! Maddrey does a great job showing how the huband and the wife differ in their reactions to events.
This book is well written. If you've dealt with infertility, it might really be of help to you. I never had children myself, but it wasn't a big issue for me.
The reason I still gave this 4 stars is that the wallowing is very realistic. We women can be that way! Maddrey does a great job showing how the huband and the wife differ in their reactions to events.
This book is well written. If you've dealt with infertility, it might really be of help to you. I never had children myself, but it wasn't a big issue for me.
May 16, 2019
As someone who has PCOS, I diagnosed June before she ever knew she had a real fertility problem. Some of the struggles mentioned in this book were spot on for me.
I didn't like how it felt like Toby was just along for the ride for much of it. That really bothered me.
And I hate that I didn't really get a sense of closure at the end. I understand that the other books in the series continue the story, but I prefer to have each story in a series be a stand-alone.
I didn't like how it felt like Toby was just along for the ride for much of it. That really bothered me.
And I hate that I didn't really get a sense of closure at the end. I understand that the other books in the series continue the story, but I prefer to have each story in a series be a stand-alone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2019
I had a hard time putting this book down when I needed to. The “girls” and their struggles were very real. In a way I could relate to their struggles, since I have had a number of miscarriages myself. My only frustration with the book is that, to find out what happened in the end, I would have to buy the next book in the series!
June 16, 2019
It took a bit to get into this book, but once I got past the twins issues between each other. Good info about PCOS and infertility. Good Christian based story. Wish they had a conclusion of some sort.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2019
Interesting story with a topic of infertility addressed. It was cute, with some hard issues dealt with, but felt a little mundane, like it needed a bit more conflict in the story or had too much forced conflict.
September 7, 2023
What you'll find inside:
*Christian romance
*Already married couples
*Series should be read in order
**Triggers**
*Infertility
*Miscarriages
What I loved:
*June was really selfish through most of the book but she was real and had growth
*June and Toby learned to fight for each other
*Christian romance
*Already married couples
*Series should be read in order
**Triggers**
*Infertility
*Miscarriages
What I loved:
*June was really selfish through most of the book but she was real and had growth
*June and Toby learned to fight for each other
May 21, 2018
Very Good Women's Fiction
I loved this book about fertility.
I loved the storyline and we'll crafted characters.
This book is recommended for those who love Christian fiction.
I loved this book about fertility.
I loved the storyline and we'll crafted characters.
This book is recommended for those who love Christian fiction.
July 14, 2019
Ebook
Twin sisters have reached the time in their marriages when they want children. Each faces infertility in different ways and each husband reacts differently.
Twin sisters have reached the time in their marriages when they want children. Each faces infertility in different ways and each husband reacts differently.
July 16, 2019
June and July are twins who seem to have perfect lives, perfect marriages and homes. When they both begin to try to start a family their world is rocked. Rated G
December 4, 2014
Faith Departed by Elizabeth Maddrey is book one in the Remnants series, and I was blessed to receive a copy. It tackles the difficult topics of infertility and miscarriage, and looks at the way this impacts on the lives of the individuals, and their relationships with each other and with God. It can make for uncomfortable reading at times, but Faith Departed deals with the issues with honesty and integrity.
Twin sisters June and July (pronounced Julie) are both married and have always told each other everything, but as both sisters embark on trying to start a family, and things do not always go to plan, so their relationship begins to show cracks. Feelings are sometimes hidden, and husbands used as 'go betweens'.
Both sisters believe in God, and have a relationship with Him, but in testing times, their attitudes towards God are very different.
Faith Departed explores the theme of God being a good God, and one Who wants the best for His children. June and July both believe this, but as times passes, and life presents its challenges, one of the sister's questions just how good God is.
Faith Departed is a very 'real' book, and is not afraid to present 'real' questions that Christians ask in times of trouble and difficulty. When life doesn't always go to plan, does that mean that we haven't been 'good' enough? Does God create imperfect people? And does everything always work out for good for those who love God? Both sisters have to trust God, and to have faith that His plan for their lives is good, even though they don't always understand it at times.
Faith Departed is an emotional roller coaster of a read. The reader empathises with both June and July, and shares their highs and lows. It is a very clever novel, as it gets the reader to think about their own personal responses to the big questions surrounding God and faith. The reader may or may not have been in similar situations to the two main characters, but we will all certainly have asked similar questions throughout our walk with God. Faith Departed was a gripping read, and I can highly recommend it.
Twin sisters June and July (pronounced Julie) are both married and have always told each other everything, but as both sisters embark on trying to start a family, and things do not always go to plan, so their relationship begins to show cracks. Feelings are sometimes hidden, and husbands used as 'go betweens'.
Both sisters believe in God, and have a relationship with Him, but in testing times, their attitudes towards God are very different.
Faith Departed explores the theme of God being a good God, and one Who wants the best for His children. June and July both believe this, but as times passes, and life presents its challenges, one of the sister's questions just how good God is.
Faith Departed is a very 'real' book, and is not afraid to present 'real' questions that Christians ask in times of trouble and difficulty. When life doesn't always go to plan, does that mean that we haven't been 'good' enough? Does God create imperfect people? And does everything always work out for good for those who love God? Both sisters have to trust God, and to have faith that His plan for their lives is good, even though they don't always understand it at times.
Faith Departed is an emotional roller coaster of a read. The reader empathises with both June and July, and shares their highs and lows. It is a very clever novel, as it gets the reader to think about their own personal responses to the big questions surrounding God and faith. The reader may or may not have been in similar situations to the two main characters, but we will all certainly have asked similar questions throughout our walk with God. Faith Departed was a gripping read, and I can highly recommend it.
May 8, 2014
3.5 stars
This book tackles a subject that will hit close to home for a lot of people. Even though I personally haven't had these particular struggles, there are people close to me that have and it is a very hard thing.
I thought the author did a good job of bringing out the myriad of emotions that surround this tough topic of infertility and conception frustrations. June and July are both dealing with their own struggles and are having a hard time. With each other, with understanding, with God.
The couple scenes of June and/or July with their mother really threw me for a loop. Do mother's today actually act that way? Say those things to their own kids? It makes my heart sad to think that a mother could attack and belittle her child over things they have no control over. So, so sad.
I actually really liked that both June and July questioned themselves and God. I think that struggles and questions can lead us closer to God if we'll let them. This is, obviously, a Christian Fiction book and it deals with these two women and their relationship with God.
One of the reasons I like books like these is that it helps me remember that there are people out there struggling with things we may not even have a clue about. Sometimes it's hard to know that but it always reminds me of a quote I love. "Be Kind. Everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle." Knowing and understanding someone's struggles can help us be more kind but even if we don't know, we should always extend kindness.
This book tackles a subject that will hit close to home for a lot of people. Even though I personally haven't had these particular struggles, there are people close to me that have and it is a very hard thing.
I thought the author did a good job of bringing out the myriad of emotions that surround this tough topic of infertility and conception frustrations. June and July are both dealing with their own struggles and are having a hard time. With each other, with understanding, with God.
The couple scenes of June and/or July with their mother really threw me for a loop. Do mother's today actually act that way? Say those things to their own kids? It makes my heart sad to think that a mother could attack and belittle her child over things they have no control over. So, so sad.
I actually really liked that both June and July questioned themselves and God. I think that struggles and questions can lead us closer to God if we'll let them. This is, obviously, a Christian Fiction book and it deals with these two women and their relationship with God.
One of the reasons I like books like these is that it helps me remember that there are people out there struggling with things we may not even have a clue about. Sometimes it's hard to know that but it always reminds me of a quote I love. "Be Kind. Everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle." Knowing and understanding someone's struggles can help us be more kind but even if we don't know, we should always extend kindness.
May 8, 2014
Hott Synopsis:
“Has not the one God made you? You belong to him in body and spirit. And what does the one God seek? Godly offspring….” –Malachi 2:15 (NIV)
He has made us as we are meant to be. But why would a perfect God give a woman the inability to get pregnant but the all-consuming desire for children?
June can’t help but to question God’s goodness when faced with her dreams not coming to fruition. First she gets the promotion she’s been eying only to find that she may just not be management material. Then her younger twin gets pregnant first. On top of that she’s gaining weight like all she does it to eat.
Where is God’s goodness and why can’t she feel the happiness and contentment in others miracles that she knows she should?
Hott Review:
Wow! I wish I’d had this book years ago! For years I’ve been a friend and confidant to others who have either had trouble getting pregnant or who couldn’t carry this book was such a great help in understanding the feelings that are churning beneath the surface of these women and their spouses.
I think this should be a must read. Especially if you’re able to have kids! I’ve met so many who judge others on their lifestyle, but, honestly, we don’t know what’s in their heart. Take a few hours and find out!
More…
Author: Elizabeth Maddrey
Source: Elizabeth Maddrey
Grade: A
Ages: 18+
Steam: Nada
Setting: Washington D.C.
“Has not the one God made you? You belong to him in body and spirit. And what does the one God seek? Godly offspring….” –Malachi 2:15 (NIV)
He has made us as we are meant to be. But why would a perfect God give a woman the inability to get pregnant but the all-consuming desire for children?
June can’t help but to question God’s goodness when faced with her dreams not coming to fruition. First she gets the promotion she’s been eying only to find that she may just not be management material. Then her younger twin gets pregnant first. On top of that she’s gaining weight like all she does it to eat.
Where is God’s goodness and why can’t she feel the happiness and contentment in others miracles that she knows she should?
Hott Review:
Wow! I wish I’d had this book years ago! For years I’ve been a friend and confidant to others who have either had trouble getting pregnant or who couldn’t carry this book was such a great help in understanding the feelings that are churning beneath the surface of these women and their spouses.
I think this should be a must read. Especially if you’re able to have kids! I’ve met so many who judge others on their lifestyle, but, honestly, we don’t know what’s in their heart. Take a few hours and find out!
More…
Author: Elizabeth Maddrey
Source: Elizabeth Maddrey
Grade: A
Ages: 18+
Steam: Nada
Setting: Washington D.C.
July 22, 2014
I was interested in reading FAITH DEPARTED by ELIZABETH MADDREY when I discovered it was a story about infertility, a subject that spikes my interest. I could easily relate to much of the main characters journey.
Twins, June and July are tough woman, but experiencing infertility has presented a challenge for them. Each sister has their own story. One that threatens to test their bond as sisters, twins, and friends.
FAITH DEPARTED is a wonderful account of experiencing infertility. It gives readers that are starting their own journey of the trials and tribulations of conceiving, a realistic perspective of what one may go through on a day-to-day basis. For those that have gone through such a process, they will easily connect with the characters and what they are experiencing in a way that will bring some peace in knowing others experience the same.
ELIZABETH MADDREY is a wonderful writer, who spins a realistic journey of infertility in not one, but from two different characters perspective, which makes FAITH DEPARTED unique, and powerful.
What a wonderful gift FAITH DEPARTED makes for those that are experiencing infertility, have gone through it, or to help those in one’s life that are currently experiencing infertility to gain a better understanding and compassion for what they are going through.
*Please see my profile for more information on this review.
Twins, June and July are tough woman, but experiencing infertility has presented a challenge for them. Each sister has their own story. One that threatens to test their bond as sisters, twins, and friends.
FAITH DEPARTED is a wonderful account of experiencing infertility. It gives readers that are starting their own journey of the trials and tribulations of conceiving, a realistic perspective of what one may go through on a day-to-day basis. For those that have gone through such a process, they will easily connect with the characters and what they are experiencing in a way that will bring some peace in knowing others experience the same.
ELIZABETH MADDREY is a wonderful writer, who spins a realistic journey of infertility in not one, but from two different characters perspective, which makes FAITH DEPARTED unique, and powerful.
What a wonderful gift FAITH DEPARTED makes for those that are experiencing infertility, have gone through it, or to help those in one’s life that are currently experiencing infertility to gain a better understanding and compassion for what they are going through.
*Please see my profile for more information on this review.
October 12, 2014
This is a good, fast fictional novel which addresses the problems of couples experiencing infertility issues. It picks up on the emotional ups and downs and brings to light a Christian value to these problems.
Although these issues were not any that I have personally experienced, I have witnessed some of these same trials with my own daughters. I found Elizabeth Maddrey's writing to be "spot on".
I also have twin daughters and was easily able to identify with the struggles of the twins in this novel. It is very easy to be jealous of your twin yet because you love them and have a deep bond with them you want to be happy for them also. When a woman is trying to conceive she also notices the many pregnant women surrounding her and the envy can be so tormenting.
I would recommend this book to any woman was has ever struggled with a difficulty in conceiving and to anyone who has ever had someone close to them experiencing infertility issues. I found the book very factual and written in a very interesting way.
Although these issues were not any that I have personally experienced, I have witnessed some of these same trials with my own daughters. I found Elizabeth Maddrey's writing to be "spot on".
I also have twin daughters and was easily able to identify with the struggles of the twins in this novel. It is very easy to be jealous of your twin yet because you love them and have a deep bond with them you want to be happy for them also. When a woman is trying to conceive she also notices the many pregnant women surrounding her and the envy can be so tormenting.
I would recommend this book to any woman was has ever struggled with a difficulty in conceiving and to anyone who has ever had someone close to them experiencing infertility issues. I found the book very factual and written in a very interesting way.
November 4, 2015
Faith Departed is a wonderfully written woman's Christian romance about two twin sisters and their struggles to conceive and balance their disappointment along with keeping their faith in God strong.
I really enjoyed the storyline. It delved deep into the sisters faith in God and how the journey to conceive a child can reek havoc on even the most stoic of faith-filled women. Even the bond of sisterhood and being a twin will be tested to its limits.
The book was well-written with deeply developed characters. Each played her part well as they began their journey into faith and conception. I felt the author did a great job incorporating all the aspects of a real-life struggle into an amazing book.
I am giving Faith Departed five stars. If you have ever struggled with infertility or know someone who has, you would enjoy this book.
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. More at www.mylifeonestoryatatime.com
I really enjoyed the storyline. It delved deep into the sisters faith in God and how the journey to conceive a child can reek havoc on even the most stoic of faith-filled women. Even the bond of sisterhood and being a twin will be tested to its limits.
The book was well-written with deeply developed characters. Each played her part well as they began their journey into faith and conception. I felt the author did a great job incorporating all the aspects of a real-life struggle into an amazing book.
I am giving Faith Departed five stars. If you have ever struggled with infertility or know someone who has, you would enjoy this book.
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. More at www.mylifeonestoryatatime.com
June 11, 2014
Sometimes life stinks. And at those times, when hearts break and dreams disintegrate, faith can suffer, too. June and July, along with their husbands Toby and Gareth, face broken dreams in the form of infertility, miscarriage, and unjust accusations at work. As the twins struggle to accept their new realities, each must decide if she will continue to trust the God Who let her down.
This story was at times difficult to read, but not because of any writing issues. The difficulty lay in the subject matter, as both women’s suffering was all too familiar to me. Elizabeth Maddrey guides readers through crushed dreams to the big question: Is God trustworthy, no matter what?
This book earns four stars.
This story was at times difficult to read, but not because of any writing issues. The difficulty lay in the subject matter, as both women’s suffering was all too familiar to me. Elizabeth Maddrey guides readers through crushed dreams to the big question: Is God trustworthy, no matter what?
This book earns four stars.
July 20, 2016
This is a powerful book. I've often wanted to relate and give encouragement to someone who is struggling with infertility. Often people will say the wrong things and not understand the road they are traveling. I love the fact that although this is fiction, it gets you inside the heads of those who suffer from this. This is powerful writing. I felt like I was going through the struggles and searching for hope in the midst. This book ended with a little of that hope. The next book in the series will pick up where this one left off. I can't wait to continue this story. So many times people have the pat answer to give to someone suffering but they need to have a look inside the person and listen to what the person is saying and going through.
November 28, 2014
I just finished reading Faith Departed by Elizabeth Maddrey. It is the first book in the Remnants series. It is about twins, June and July (pronounced Julie). June is married to Toby and July is married to Gareth. Both couples have decided it is time to have children. Unfortunately, their path to parenthood is a bumpy one. The couples will have to learn how to face these difficulties and not lose their faith in God’s plan for their lives. Faith Departed is a lovely story. It is a short book that can easily be read within an hour and half. If you like Christian fiction books, you will enjoy Faith Departed.
September 27, 2014
This is a raw, open look at the struggles of infertility. At times, I wished there was a happy moment to lighten the mood, but in reality, these are the emotions both the man and woman face and deal with constantly. So, I'm glad the author didn't sugar coat anything.
Women who are struggling to conceive will take comfort in a book that doesn't pretend like everything is going to turn out perfectly.
The ending comes suddenly, so make sure you download book two to start as soon as you finish book one!
Women who are struggling to conceive will take comfort in a book that doesn't pretend like everything is going to turn out perfectly.
The ending comes suddenly, so make sure you download book two to start as soon as you finish book one!
June 4, 2014
A person having several huge trials, not knowing how to react, starts losing her faith.
She has always been told having a baby just happens, but it doesnt
Everywhere she looks there are pregnant ladies and she isnt.
The book was written well. It was neat to see her turn back to our Lord
This is a neat book for couples who have trouble having a baby
It would also be a neat book for others on how to react when somebody is struggling
God bless all of you
I was given this book from tbcn and the author for my honest review
She has always been told having a baby just happens, but it doesnt
Everywhere she looks there are pregnant ladies and she isnt.
The book was written well. It was neat to see her turn back to our Lord
This is a neat book for couples who have trouble having a baby
It would also be a neat book for others on how to react when somebody is struggling
God bless all of you
I was given this book from tbcn and the author for my honest review
September 13, 2015
This is a very moving story. Two sisters that want to do everything together have gotten married and both want to start a family. They do not have things work out the way that they wanted to. I really enjoyed this story and I loved the way that the author wrote about their feelings. I give this book a 4/5. I was given this book for a review and these are all my opinions .
May 27, 2014
I really liked this book. The characters and the situations and dilemmas that they encountered seemed real and true to life. I recommend this book.
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