What do you think?
Rate this book
Where Hope Begins
In the aftermath of her husband’s act of adultery and abandonment, Savannah must finally face the ghosts that haunt her and discover for herself whether authentic faith, grace, and ultimate healing really do exist.
When her husband of twenty-one years leaves her, Savannah Barrington believes she’s lost almost everything she’s ever loved. With her daughter in college and her son in boarding school, Savannah retreats to her parents’ lake house in the Berkshires, where hope and healing come in the form of an old woman’s wisdom, a little girl’s laughter, a touch of magic, and a handsome man who’s willing to risk his own heart to prove she’s still worth loving.
But when her husband asks to reconcile, Savannah is faced with the hardest challenge of all: Forgiving the unforgivable. Somehow she must find freedom from the chains of their past and move forward, or face an unknown future without him.
When her husband of twenty-one years leaves her, Savannah Barrington believes she’s lost almost everything she’s ever loved. With her daughter in college and her son in boarding school, Savannah retreats to her parents’ lake house in the Berkshires, where hope and healing come in the form of an old woman’s wisdom, a little girl’s laughter, a touch of magic, and a handsome man who’s willing to risk his own heart to prove she’s still worth loving.
But when her husband asks to reconcile, Savannah is faced with the hardest challenge of all: Forgiving the unforgivable. Somehow she must find freedom from the chains of their past and move forward, or face an unknown future without him.
368 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2018
82 people are currently reading
1620 people want to read
About the author
Catherine West
7 books770 followersCatherine West is an award-winning author of contemporary women’s fiction. When she’s not at the computer working on her next story, you can find her taking her Border Collie for long walks or reading books by her favorite authors. She and her husband reside in Bermuda, and have two adult children and two beautiful granddaughters. Catherine is the winner of the 2015 Grace Award (Bridge of Faith) and a two-time winner of Romance Writers of America’s Faith, Hope & Love Reader’s Choice Award (The Things We Knew, 2017 and Where Hope Begins, 2019), and a recipient of the American Christian Fiction Writer’s 2019 Carol Award, for Where Hope Begins. Her latest novel, As the Light Fades, released September 2019.
Catherine loves to connect with her readers and can be reached at Catherine@catherinejwest.com
Catherine loves to connect with her readers and can be reached at Catherine@catherinejwest.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 313 reviews
June 11, 2018
"In three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life: It goes on." - Robert Frost
At the beginning of this book Savannah Barrington is reeling. Her husband of twenty-one years has left her for another woman. Learning of his affair and betrayal has turned her world upside down. Savannah decides she needs a change of scenery. She has a daughter in college and a son away at boarding school. There are too many memories tied up in the house she shared with her husband, so she decides to seek solace in her parent's lake house in the Berkshires. There she meets her neighbors and begins to live her life again. She has weekly tea with Clarice, the woman from next door while befriending the woman's nephew Brock and his daughter, Maysie. Savannah is attempting to make peace with the fact that her marriage is over, her husband has moved on and she learns it is time for he to do the same. Her entire family has suffered a HUGE loss in their life and things have been strained for a long time. As Savannah attempts to close one door of her life she gains insight, and learns there is always hope, there is room for forgiveness and that starting over is not always a bad thing. While working in the greenhouse and getting to know her neighbors, Savannah learns that life does go on, beauty can spring forth from something bad, and that she is worthy of loving and being loved.
"You cannot find peace by avoiding life." -Virginia Woolf
This book deals with a lot of heavy issues: loss of a child, adultery, suicide, trust, forgiveness, hope, family, mental health, guilt, betrayal, health issues and faith. The characters are coping with a lot of issues in this book and I appreciated how real their thoughts and actions felt. I thought the Author handled all the issues respectfully. She showed how loss can affect all members of a family, how the breakdown in communication can affect everyone, and how guilt can be all encompassing. The Author showed the family's faith in their religion. For those that are not religious, do not let this hold you back. This book is not "preachy" but does a beautiful job of showing how the characters had faith, questioned their faith and relied upon their faith in good times and bad.
"Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven." -Luke 6:37
The book will cause most to wonder "what would I do in that situation?" and "could I forgive? “The characters in this book are pondering the same questions with a few more thrown in as well. The characters in this book go through many emotions and I felt as if I was along with them as they coped with all the things life threw at them in this book. The characters are like-able and their reactions all felt believable and real. There are five stages of grief and we see the characters go through various stages as they cope and go on with their lives.
"Hope begins in the dark, the stubborn hope that if you just how up and try to do the right thing, the dawn will come." Anne Lamott
This well-written book begins with heartbreak and ends with hope. I really enjoyed not only the story but the message of this book. It was a quiet page turner that had me guessing as to what Savannah would decide to do. This one will pull at the heartstrings and have you feeling the emotions of the characters and I felt for their situation, their loss and their path moving forward.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson-Fiction and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
At the beginning of this book Savannah Barrington is reeling. Her husband of twenty-one years has left her for another woman. Learning of his affair and betrayal has turned her world upside down. Savannah decides she needs a change of scenery. She has a daughter in college and a son away at boarding school. There are too many memories tied up in the house she shared with her husband, so she decides to seek solace in her parent's lake house in the Berkshires. There she meets her neighbors and begins to live her life again. She has weekly tea with Clarice, the woman from next door while befriending the woman's nephew Brock and his daughter, Maysie. Savannah is attempting to make peace with the fact that her marriage is over, her husband has moved on and she learns it is time for he to do the same. Her entire family has suffered a HUGE loss in their life and things have been strained for a long time. As Savannah attempts to close one door of her life she gains insight, and learns there is always hope, there is room for forgiveness and that starting over is not always a bad thing. While working in the greenhouse and getting to know her neighbors, Savannah learns that life does go on, beauty can spring forth from something bad, and that she is worthy of loving and being loved.
"You cannot find peace by avoiding life." -Virginia Woolf
This book deals with a lot of heavy issues: loss of a child, adultery, suicide, trust, forgiveness, hope, family, mental health, guilt, betrayal, health issues and faith. The characters are coping with a lot of issues in this book and I appreciated how real their thoughts and actions felt. I thought the Author handled all the issues respectfully. She showed how loss can affect all members of a family, how the breakdown in communication can affect everyone, and how guilt can be all encompassing. The Author showed the family's faith in their religion. For those that are not religious, do not let this hold you back. This book is not "preachy" but does a beautiful job of showing how the characters had faith, questioned their faith and relied upon their faith in good times and bad.
"Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven." -Luke 6:37
The book will cause most to wonder "what would I do in that situation?" and "could I forgive? “The characters in this book are pondering the same questions with a few more thrown in as well. The characters in this book go through many emotions and I felt as if I was along with them as they coped with all the things life threw at them in this book. The characters are like-able and their reactions all felt believable and real. There are five stages of grief and we see the characters go through various stages as they cope and go on with their lives.
"Hope begins in the dark, the stubborn hope that if you just how up and try to do the right thing, the dawn will come." Anne Lamott
This well-written book begins with heartbreak and ends with hope. I really enjoyed not only the story but the message of this book. It was a quiet page turner that had me guessing as to what Savannah would decide to do. This one will pull at the heartstrings and have you feeling the emotions of the characters and I felt for their situation, their loss and their path moving forward.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson-Fiction and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
May 7, 2018
Where Hope Begins
Catherine West
Received from Netgalley
Wow, all I can say is, keep the tissues handy! WHERE HOPE BEGINS by Catherine West will have your emotions all over the place. Once I started reading, it was very hard to stop! I have only read one other book by Catherine West but I know this won't be the last! The twists and turns made it impossible to put down, as I had to know what was going to happen to Savannah after so much heartache! Wow! What an awesome story. WHERE HOPE BEGINS hooked me from the very first page and never let me go until the very last. Catherine West has written a contemporary story that takes place on Nantucket and is filled with strong, caring characters that everyone will be able to relate to and care about. Soon, you will feel as if you are on the island with the Barringtons, struggling to figure out where their lives are going.
WHERE HOPE BEGINS is all about family and the past and the secrets that come out are heartbreaking. It deals with terminal illness, adultery, death, suicide and had me flipping through the pages like a woman on a mission. I had to know what was going to happen to Savannah and Brock and all the secondary characters. I hope there is going to be another book and that this becomes a series or at least a trilogy. I want and need more contact with this family. The characters are all well written and totally believable.
WHERE HOPE BEGINS is without a doubt one of the best books I've read in 2018 so far. I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters and especially with Brock's daughter, Maysie and I need more of her story. My heart broke for Savannah and Kevin and for all they were dealing with but Brock shredded me. Catherine West really knows how to write about family drama, heartbreak, and forgiveness. I can not wait to read more by this wonderful and heart tugging author. Well done Ms. West, you have a new fan.
Catherine West
Received from Netgalley
Wow, all I can say is, keep the tissues handy! WHERE HOPE BEGINS by Catherine West will have your emotions all over the place. Once I started reading, it was very hard to stop! I have only read one other book by Catherine West but I know this won't be the last! The twists and turns made it impossible to put down, as I had to know what was going to happen to Savannah after so much heartache! Wow! What an awesome story. WHERE HOPE BEGINS hooked me from the very first page and never let me go until the very last. Catherine West has written a contemporary story that takes place on Nantucket and is filled with strong, caring characters that everyone will be able to relate to and care about. Soon, you will feel as if you are on the island with the Barringtons, struggling to figure out where their lives are going.
WHERE HOPE BEGINS is all about family and the past and the secrets that come out are heartbreaking. It deals with terminal illness, adultery, death, suicide and had me flipping through the pages like a woman on a mission. I had to know what was going to happen to Savannah and Brock and all the secondary characters. I hope there is going to be another book and that this becomes a series or at least a trilogy. I want and need more contact with this family. The characters are all well written and totally believable.
WHERE HOPE BEGINS is without a doubt one of the best books I've read in 2018 so far. I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters and especially with Brock's daughter, Maysie and I need more of her story. My heart broke for Savannah and Kevin and for all they were dealing with but Brock shredded me. Catherine West really knows how to write about family drama, heartbreak, and forgiveness. I can not wait to read more by this wonderful and heart tugging author. Well done Ms. West, you have a new fan.
March 12, 2019
When her husband of over twenty years leaves her for another woman, Savannah Barrington takes refuge in the one place she has always felt solace. She retreats to the lake house her parents own in the Berkshires. As she struggles to cope, not only with this pain and loss but still grieving the death of their eldest daughter Shelby some years earlier, she is not left alone. Her neighbour Clarice with her nephew Brock who is a writer and Brock’s daughter Maysie enter Savannah’s life and change it, but not in ways she expects. Savannah’s and Kevin’s two older children, Zoe and Adam are away at college and boarding school. Both of them are angry, holding their father responsible for the circumstances. Even Savannah’s faith seems to have deserted her. What does the future hold? How can she ever move past this? How can she overcome the pain that assails her?
From the first page this story got me in. I empathised with Savannah’s pain and confusion. I really liked her, Aunt Clarice, the sweet Maysie and Brock. Kevin it took me longer to warm to. Both Zoe and Adam come across well and realistically. I also liked Savannah’s parents and her brother, who is a pastor. Her sister in law, Janice is another story altogether and deserves the spray she gets at one stage in the book. I felt like cheering at that point.
I have only read one other book by this author before and loved it. Since then I have been on the lookout at the library for another so when I saw this one I pounced on it. I will now be on the lookout for more by this author. Just a great read that had me engaged emotionally from start to finish. And who can resist a book littered with literary quotes that absolutely fit the story? That’s the way each chapter starts. Both Savannah and Kevin have always been keen collectors of books. I loved all the various quotes and was interested to see that several of them were from Oscar Wilde.
Even though it deals with topics of adultery, loss and suicide these are all tastefully handled. Yes, there are moments when tissues were required, but also interspersed with lighter moments and moments of laughter. I was thoroughly engrossed in this story from start to finish. A couple of plot points took the story in tangents I wasn’t initially expecting but they worked. Suffice to say I adored this book. An absolute winner as far as I am concerned.
From the first page this story got me in. I empathised with Savannah’s pain and confusion. I really liked her, Aunt Clarice, the sweet Maysie and Brock. Kevin it took me longer to warm to. Both Zoe and Adam come across well and realistically. I also liked Savannah’s parents and her brother, who is a pastor. Her sister in law, Janice is another story altogether and deserves the spray she gets at one stage in the book. I felt like cheering at that point.
I have only read one other book by this author before and loved it. Since then I have been on the lookout at the library for another so when I saw this one I pounced on it. I will now be on the lookout for more by this author. Just a great read that had me engaged emotionally from start to finish. And who can resist a book littered with literary quotes that absolutely fit the story? That’s the way each chapter starts. Both Savannah and Kevin have always been keen collectors of books. I loved all the various quotes and was interested to see that several of them were from Oscar Wilde.
Even though it deals with topics of adultery, loss and suicide these are all tastefully handled. Yes, there are moments when tissues were required, but also interspersed with lighter moments and moments of laughter. I was thoroughly engrossed in this story from start to finish. A couple of plot points took the story in tangents I wasn’t initially expecting but they worked. Suffice to say I adored this book. An absolute winner as far as I am concerned.
July 6, 2018
Favorite Quotes:
This miserable moment… it feels freeze-framed. Forever cemented in memory—this one defining moment in my life when I realize all I’ve done, everything I’ve poured myself into, has been for naught.
I don’t want to hate Kevin. And I don’t, always. Just most of the time.
We’ve been in and out of counseling for the past ten years. Christian counseling. Psychiatric counseling. Family and couples counseling. I can quote books verbatim on how to put a family back together after loss, how to grieve, how to pray for your husband. I must have missed the one on how to keep him at home.
Brock Chandler is all straight white teeth and sparkling eyes and smiles like a movie star. And his voice sounds like Matthew McConaughey’s. Suddenly I can’t find mine.
He knew that kind of pain. That searing forest-fire heat that eventually fizzles to dormant embers but remains a threat, a slow burn, never fully extinguished and easily flammable.
Her idea of gardening is buying a flower arrangement from Whole Foods, putting it on the table, and waiting for it to die.
…we walk toward the house in step. It’s a practiced rhythm we’ve forgotten somehow, but it has not forgotten us.
My Review:
I was astounded by the level of deft handling, observant insight, and thoughtful sensitivity given to an abundant amount of heavy personal issues and unfortunate circumstances. While my eyes may occasionally burn and sting, I am rarely moved to actual tears while reading, although this emotive and heartbreaking story had me sobbing, and more than once. I was often annoyed with the characters’ selfish tendencies for denial, indecision, and procrastination, but most of us walking this earth are guilty of those same foibles at various times in our lives. The premise and storylines were relevant, well-crafted, painfully heart-squeezing, and surprisingly engaging. I’ve never read Ms. West’s work before and despite my discomfort and tendency to eschew religious themes, I was quickly immersed and fully invested in her superbly written tale, although I was conflicted in whom to root for. Her writing style was smooth, easy to follow, and kept me reading far later than I expected. I fully enjoyed and appreciated her wry humor, which was often stealthily dropped in unexpected places. The characters were realistically flawed and as fleshed out and knowable as my next-door neighbor, maybe even more so. I was definitely a Brock fan all the way through and far from joining team Kevin until he tore off a piece of the self-righteous preacher’s wife, and from then on I had to take him seriously, I just had to, as he sorta became my hero. The ending was highly satisfying and although extremely sad, it was also the best possible outcome.
This miserable moment… it feels freeze-framed. Forever cemented in memory—this one defining moment in my life when I realize all I’ve done, everything I’ve poured myself into, has been for naught.
I don’t want to hate Kevin. And I don’t, always. Just most of the time.
We’ve been in and out of counseling for the past ten years. Christian counseling. Psychiatric counseling. Family and couples counseling. I can quote books verbatim on how to put a family back together after loss, how to grieve, how to pray for your husband. I must have missed the one on how to keep him at home.
Brock Chandler is all straight white teeth and sparkling eyes and smiles like a movie star. And his voice sounds like Matthew McConaughey’s. Suddenly I can’t find mine.
He knew that kind of pain. That searing forest-fire heat that eventually fizzles to dormant embers but remains a threat, a slow burn, never fully extinguished and easily flammable.
Her idea of gardening is buying a flower arrangement from Whole Foods, putting it on the table, and waiting for it to die.
…we walk toward the house in step. It’s a practiced rhythm we’ve forgotten somehow, but it has not forgotten us.
My Review:
I was astounded by the level of deft handling, observant insight, and thoughtful sensitivity given to an abundant amount of heavy personal issues and unfortunate circumstances. While my eyes may occasionally burn and sting, I am rarely moved to actual tears while reading, although this emotive and heartbreaking story had me sobbing, and more than once. I was often annoyed with the characters’ selfish tendencies for denial, indecision, and procrastination, but most of us walking this earth are guilty of those same foibles at various times in our lives. The premise and storylines were relevant, well-crafted, painfully heart-squeezing, and surprisingly engaging. I’ve never read Ms. West’s work before and despite my discomfort and tendency to eschew religious themes, I was quickly immersed and fully invested in her superbly written tale, although I was conflicted in whom to root for. Her writing style was smooth, easy to follow, and kept me reading far later than I expected. I fully enjoyed and appreciated her wry humor, which was often stealthily dropped in unexpected places. The characters were realistically flawed and as fleshed out and knowable as my next-door neighbor, maybe even more so. I was definitely a Brock fan all the way through and far from joining team Kevin until he tore off a piece of the self-righteous preacher’s wife, and from then on I had to take him seriously, I just had to, as he sorta became my hero. The ending was highly satisfying and although extremely sad, it was also the best possible outcome.
March 13, 2018
I kind of like this book.
A lot.
:P
A lot.
:P
May 7, 2018
Where Hope Begins is my first book by Catherine West and it is a book about love, family, divorce, betrayal, adultery, suicide and forgiveness. It is heartbreaking to read. So many emotions in this book! As I first started to read it, I thought it was all about loss and despair because that’s how it started out but then it didn’t take me long to realize it was about hope and survival. There can be HOPE after divorce. The characters are all believable and it was an easy story to connect to. I received this ARC from the publisher through NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own.
March 20, 2018
This is my fourth Catherine West novel and it's my new favorite.
On the surface Where Hope Begins is a novel about heartbreaking things...adultery, death, suicide and terminal illness. The beauty comes in the perseverance and humility shown by the characters. One can choose to give up or carry forward.
All of the characters were well portrayed. I'm not sure that I have a favorite among them. As a southerner, I adored the reaction of Savanah's father to the presence of her cheating husband at a family gathering. Such a realistic scene. The entire novel was full of incredibly realistic scenes and characters.
I loved the author's note at the end in which she shares how this story came to pass and a prayer for those going through similar hurts that may have a different ending than Savanah.
My gratitude to publisher Thomas Nelson for a NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and the opinions expressed are my own.
On the surface Where Hope Begins is a novel about heartbreaking things...adultery, death, suicide and terminal illness. The beauty comes in the perseverance and humility shown by the characters. One can choose to give up or carry forward.
All of the characters were well portrayed. I'm not sure that I have a favorite among them. As a southerner, I adored the reaction of Savanah's father to the presence of her cheating husband at a family gathering. Such a realistic scene. The entire novel was full of incredibly realistic scenes and characters.
I loved the author's note at the end in which she shares how this story came to pass and a prayer for those going through similar hurts that may have a different ending than Savanah.
My gratitude to publisher Thomas Nelson for a NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and the opinions expressed are my own.
May 6, 2018
As I close the pages of Where Hope Begins, I realized that Ms. West has out done herself.
Hands down. Her best book. EVER.
From the opening line my heart ached and my body tensed, prepared for the onslaught I was sure to come. But nothing went like I expected. And even when I could tell the direction Ms. West was going, I still wasn’t prepared.
I’ve heard that early readers were crying. I admit I thought I would remain untouched by that. But yeah almost down to the last page and the tears started. She got me. J Now I admit, there are parts here and there which are utterly heartbreaking and could spark some tears. But the Epilogue tore me to pieces.
But I’m glad I cried. I’m glad I took a chance on a book that has a rough subject matter. Because that beautiful saving grace that God’s in the business of making made the ending all so sweeter.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
**Full review at: https://tonishiloh.wordpress.com/2018...
Hands down. Her best book. EVER.
From the opening line my heart ached and my body tensed, prepared for the onslaught I was sure to come. But nothing went like I expected. And even when I could tell the direction Ms. West was going, I still wasn’t prepared.
I’ve heard that early readers were crying. I admit I thought I would remain untouched by that. But yeah almost down to the last page and the tears started. She got me. J Now I admit, there are parts here and there which are utterly heartbreaking and could spark some tears. But the Epilogue tore me to pieces.
But I’m glad I cried. I’m glad I took a chance on a book that has a rough subject matter. Because that beautiful saving grace that God’s in the business of making made the ending all so sweeter.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
**Full review at: https://tonishiloh.wordpress.com/2018...
August 19, 2023
Ten stars. Warning: you will cry. This is a wonderful and difficult book about a hard, real subject and about emotional healing. Catherine tackles it with honest, raw descriptions, beautiful writing, grace, and humor. I can't say enough good about this book.
December 19, 2021
This is a mixed bag for me.
Spoilers....
I almost didn't carry on reading it but it had been recommended to me so I kept going.
There is a lot of Bible quotes, talk of God and miracles and scripture etc and I really didn't like that.
But the issue of cheating is thoroughly examined.
The book starts with the husband leaving the wife, he's met someone else, though we never actually meet the other woman.
I liked that the wife had some frank discussions saying how she felt.
She goes away and meets a whole set of new people and meets another man.
As she's still married, the divorce isn't signed off, they kiss but she feels guilty.
The soon to be ex husband is living with the other woman.
The husband realises he wants to try with his wife again and finishes it with other woman.
The new man/neighbor has a brain tumor, he loves the heroine, she never actually expresses how she feels but he dies at the end.
I almost felt I'd have preferred her with him and if he hadn't died would her decisions have been different.
The reason for the original split is they have a child that dies.
The wife tries to commit suicide.
They have other children so grief is not something you can dictate to another person but they both had other children to care for despite their loss.
Husband and wife reconcile. HEA.
Epilogue.
Spoilers....
I almost didn't carry on reading it but it had been recommended to me so I kept going.
There is a lot of Bible quotes, talk of God and miracles and scripture etc and I really didn't like that.
But the issue of cheating is thoroughly examined.
The book starts with the husband leaving the wife, he's met someone else, though we never actually meet the other woman.
I liked that the wife had some frank discussions saying how she felt.
She goes away and meets a whole set of new people and meets another man.
As she's still married, the divorce isn't signed off, they kiss but she feels guilty.
The soon to be ex husband is living with the other woman.
The husband realises he wants to try with his wife again and finishes it with other woman.
The new man/neighbor has a brain tumor, he loves the heroine, she never actually expresses how she feels but he dies at the end.
I almost felt I'd have preferred her with him and if he hadn't died would her decisions have been different.
The reason for the original split is they have a child that dies.
The wife tries to commit suicide.
They have other children so grief is not something you can dictate to another person but they both had other children to care for despite their loss.
Husband and wife reconcile. HEA.
Epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2022
This was a realistic and imaginable book of course with themes that are quite common no doubt as life certainly isn't always rosy.It's easy enough to imagine such situations occuring and how such tragedies can tear families and marriages apart. The messages of forgiveness and showing grace were beautifully done throughout. The disappointment/puzzlement to me in a sense was how much alcohol was drank, especially by a pastor.... Kind of threw me off to be honest. To each their own but wouldn't expect that in a Christian book. Otherwise, a great read and lessons to be gleaned from it.
July 12, 2018
“Sometimes we are allowed to glimpse the beauty within the brokenness…”
First, let me say that I love love love the writing voice decisions that Catherine West made in Where Hope Begins. Savannah’s first person narrative is spot-on for her character and her situation, but I also enjoyed getting a 3rd person narrative perspective from several of the other characters as the story progressed. Especially Brock.
Which leads us to the shameless swooning portion of this review.
Brock is YUM. There’s just not another word for him. That Matthew McConaughey drawl. His easy use of the word ‘darlin’. His sense of humor. The way he is with his daughter. The depth of his feelings for Savannah. Well, ok, maybe i can come up with a few more. Droolworthy. Fan-necessitating. Knee-weakening. Swoonilicious. And a bunch of other descriptors I can’t use for fear of spoilers.
But despite my slight crush on Brock, this isn’t really his story. Sure, he plays an important role. Sure, he had me all twitterpated one minute and ugly crying into my pillow the next. But Where Hope Begins is more Savannah’s story than anyone’s. Thanks to her first person narration, we get inside her head and heart. We feel her pain, her insecurity, her grief, her anger, her loneliness, her fight to keep going as her world shatters. Again. And it’s here that Catherine West especially excels. She takes Savannah to the deepest pit and meets her there with HOPE already waiting. She wounds her heart (and ours in the process) but she’s right there to shower all of us with GRACE and HEALING.
Bottom Line: I have loved every book that I’ve ever read by this author, but I can safely say that Where Hope Begins is her best one so far! This is a story of the spiraling effect of sin, of the spiraling effect of forgiveness, and of the kind of hope that hangs in there when everything else is falling apart. Yet, while the ugly-cry quotient is certainly high, so are the moments where you can’t help smiling or even chuckling or… as we’ve already established … swooning. The characters are authentic and at times raw – much like the story – and in each of them you might see a little of yourself. West courageously strips away the pretense that could easily infiltrate this kind of story, and she leaves us instead with a smart, honest, and incredibly touching story of restoration in the midst of the most shattered brokenness and hope in the midst of the darkest night. A must read!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
First, let me say that I love love love the writing voice decisions that Catherine West made in Where Hope Begins. Savannah’s first person narrative is spot-on for her character and her situation, but I also enjoyed getting a 3rd person narrative perspective from several of the other characters as the story progressed. Especially Brock.
Which leads us to the shameless swooning portion of this review.
Brock is YUM. There’s just not another word for him. That Matthew McConaughey drawl. His easy use of the word ‘darlin’. His sense of humor. The way he is with his daughter. The depth of his feelings for Savannah. Well, ok, maybe i can come up with a few more. Droolworthy. Fan-necessitating. Knee-weakening. Swoonilicious. And a bunch of other descriptors I can’t use for fear of spoilers.
But despite my slight crush on Brock, this isn’t really his story. Sure, he plays an important role. Sure, he had me all twitterpated one minute and ugly crying into my pillow the next. But Where Hope Begins is more Savannah’s story than anyone’s. Thanks to her first person narration, we get inside her head and heart. We feel her pain, her insecurity, her grief, her anger, her loneliness, her fight to keep going as her world shatters. Again. And it’s here that Catherine West especially excels. She takes Savannah to the deepest pit and meets her there with HOPE already waiting. She wounds her heart (and ours in the process) but she’s right there to shower all of us with GRACE and HEALING.
Bottom Line: I have loved every book that I’ve ever read by this author, but I can safely say that Where Hope Begins is her best one so far! This is a story of the spiraling effect of sin, of the spiraling effect of forgiveness, and of the kind of hope that hangs in there when everything else is falling apart. Yet, while the ugly-cry quotient is certainly high, so are the moments where you can’t help smiling or even chuckling or… as we’ve already established … swooning. The characters are authentic and at times raw – much like the story – and in each of them you might see a little of yourself. West courageously strips away the pretense that could easily infiltrate this kind of story, and she leaves us instead with a smart, honest, and incredibly touching story of restoration in the midst of the most shattered brokenness and hope in the midst of the darkest night. A must read!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
May 21, 2018
"I am so tired of crying. So tired of this hatred, this anger. I want it all to end."
There are times when you read a book in which your emotions are so invested, it is truly hard to sit down and write a review worthy of the book. This is one of those times. Catherine West has written a book that is surely destined to be on the keeper shelf and be read over and over again.
Savannah Barrington's husband of over 20 years has left her, having been caught in an affair with another woman. Savannah and Kevin have had tremendous heartache and tragedy in their time together and now, with this latest situation, Savannah feels buried underneath the rubble that is her life. She escapes to the Berkshires, her parents' lake house there . They are in Florida and it's hers alone. She hopes to find solace there for her shaken world and seemingly unending emotional pain. She meets the neighbors, an old woman, a little girl and a handsome man who shakes her world more than a little.
But Savannah must make a choice for she is facing a sure challenge: forgive the unforgivable, show mercy where none was shown and reconciliation with the grief that has stolen her heart for the last ten years. But God is pursuing Savannah and He does have a plan for her life. By His wounds she will be healed. If she allows it.
This book had me completely drawn in by page 5. West shows her readers what true emotional pain feels like, bringing them right into Savannah's heart. And not only hers, but her husband's, her children's, and the neighbors' pain as well. We learn that everyone is dealing with something that burdens their hearts and lives. It's how we handle it that counts.
I found myself smiling, laughing and crying. Many times. I had to put the book down once and just bawl. There is hope here, healing, hope, grace, redemption and mercy. The poignancy of this tale is tremendous! Expertly written, this book will captivate readers with its sincerity, emotion and hope. Truly, this one is NOT to be missed! This will be on my list of best books of 2018, no, best books ever I've read. Highly recommended.
* "I was provided a copy of this book by Thomas Nelson publishers and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions in this review are my own."
There are times when you read a book in which your emotions are so invested, it is truly hard to sit down and write a review worthy of the book. This is one of those times. Catherine West has written a book that is surely destined to be on the keeper shelf and be read over and over again.
Savannah Barrington's husband of over 20 years has left her, having been caught in an affair with another woman. Savannah and Kevin have had tremendous heartache and tragedy in their time together and now, with this latest situation, Savannah feels buried underneath the rubble that is her life. She escapes to the Berkshires, her parents' lake house there . They are in Florida and it's hers alone. She hopes to find solace there for her shaken world and seemingly unending emotional pain. She meets the neighbors, an old woman, a little girl and a handsome man who shakes her world more than a little.
But Savannah must make a choice for she is facing a sure challenge: forgive the unforgivable, show mercy where none was shown and reconciliation with the grief that has stolen her heart for the last ten years. But God is pursuing Savannah and He does have a plan for her life. By His wounds she will be healed. If she allows it.
This book had me completely drawn in by page 5. West shows her readers what true emotional pain feels like, bringing them right into Savannah's heart. And not only hers, but her husband's, her children's, and the neighbors' pain as well. We learn that everyone is dealing with something that burdens their hearts and lives. It's how we handle it that counts.
I found myself smiling, laughing and crying. Many times. I had to put the book down once and just bawl. There is hope here, healing, hope, grace, redemption and mercy. The poignancy of this tale is tremendous! Expertly written, this book will captivate readers with its sincerity, emotion and hope. Truly, this one is NOT to be missed! This will be on my list of best books of 2018, no, best books ever I've read. Highly recommended.
* "I was provided a copy of this book by Thomas Nelson publishers and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions in this review are my own."
April 15, 2018
Catherine West tackles some very serious issues in this book that will send readers on an emotional roller coaster. This is a story of a family dealing with the fallout after tragedy sends the family spiraling into a series of bad decisions and brokenness. But it is also a story of love, grace, forgiveness and hope. Mostly the hope that new beginnings can bring. While the story occasionally switched to other characters, it was told mostly from Savannah's point of view. As she dealt with grief, anger and betrayal I found myself pulled into her story. But it was when she was able to lay aside blame, learning to forgive and trust that I found the tears flowing. Don't let the threat of tears deter you from reading this book. There are so many insights into the many relationships we share in life as a lover, spouse, parent and child that the reader will ponder long after the last page was read.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 22, 2018
Hard hitting. Emotion stirring. Heaving sob inducing. I don't even know how to review Where Hope Begins. Tough read. I mean I really didn't want to read this book only I couldn't stop reading it either. Serious subject matters -- adultery, death, grief -- doesn't that sound like fun? But there is so much hope within the pages of this book as well! The goose-bumping, deep-rooting kind that takes your breath away.
And though that makes this book seem like a heavy read, there is an ethereal beauty in the way the story unfolds that lifts all the harsh reality into something quite magical. I sat in stunned silence when I reached the end -- and y'all know me, when am I ever quiet when it comes to books?! So, be prepared to be amazed...and moved...and changed. Simply stunning!
And though that makes this book seem like a heavy read, there is an ethereal beauty in the way the story unfolds that lifts all the harsh reality into something quite magical. I sat in stunned silence when I reached the end -- and y'all know me, when am I ever quiet when it comes to books?! So, be prepared to be amazed...and moved...and changed. Simply stunning!
January 11, 2018
Cathy West courageously wades into the turbulent waters of relationships—the struggles we all face. Rather than settling for easy or clichéd answers, she writes with realism, always choosing hope and grace.
September 1, 2018
Savannah’s husband of twenty years is leaving her for the other woman. Now the house is empty—their three children are at boarding school, college, and in a grave. Broken, Savannah goes to stay in her parent’s holiday home, where she meets the neighbours: an old woman, her nephew, and his daughter. A daughter who is the spitting image of Savannah’s dead daughter.
Yes, Where Hope Begins has lots of angst. As the story progresses we find out more about how Shelby died, about how Savannah is convinced Shelby’s death was her fault, and convinced husband Kevin blames her, even though he says he doesn’t. We also see how this tragedy shaped their marriage, and paved the way for it’s destruction.
At the lake house, we see Savannah’s developing relationship with Brock, the bestselling author who is her new next-door neighbour. Her very attractive next-door neighbour. Why not? Her husband has left her for another woman and wants a divorce. That presents Savannah with a dilemma … and us as the reader. We’re convinced we don’t like Kevin, but does that justify Savannah’s growing relationship with Brock?
The intricacies of the relationships are compounded by Savannah’s Christian faith, a faith her husband supposedly shared. As Christians, we have clear views on adultery, but when is a marriage over? When is the wronged spouse allowed to move on?
Where Hope Begins is an intelligent, thought-provoking, and emotional read in a situation where there are lots of hard questions and no right answers.
The writing is excellent, as I’ve come to expect from Catherine West. The characters are well-developed, the plot complex but not convoluted, and the Christian elements threaded through but not overwhelming. Oh, and I cried. It’s been a long time since a novel made me cry.
Recommended for anyone looking for Christian fiction that addresses some of the hard issues of life. Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
Yes, Where Hope Begins has lots of angst. As the story progresses we find out more about how Shelby died, about how Savannah is convinced Shelby’s death was her fault, and convinced husband Kevin blames her, even though he says he doesn’t. We also see how this tragedy shaped their marriage, and paved the way for it’s destruction.
At the lake house, we see Savannah’s developing relationship with Brock, the bestselling author who is her new next-door neighbour. Her very attractive next-door neighbour. Why not? Her husband has left her for another woman and wants a divorce. That presents Savannah with a dilemma … and us as the reader. We’re convinced we don’t like Kevin, but does that justify Savannah’s growing relationship with Brock?
The intricacies of the relationships are compounded by Savannah’s Christian faith, a faith her husband supposedly shared. As Christians, we have clear views on adultery, but when is a marriage over? When is the wronged spouse allowed to move on?
Where Hope Begins is an intelligent, thought-provoking, and emotional read in a situation where there are lots of hard questions and no right answers.
The writing is excellent, as I’ve come to expect from Catherine West. The characters are well-developed, the plot complex but not convoluted, and the Christian elements threaded through but not overwhelming. Oh, and I cried. It’s been a long time since a novel made me cry.
Recommended for anyone looking for Christian fiction that addresses some of the hard issues of life. Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
March 21, 2018
This book has emitted every emotion, heartache, grief, sadness, anger, laughter, and hope. This is a gritty real life novel that dealt with death, adultery, suicide, and thankfully... second chances. But, I don't want to leave the impression that this is a sad and morose book. It's not. This book, although deals with hard real life subjects, it offers hope, and new beginnings. It didn't end sad, it had a precious and sweet ending. So no fears there. This is my new favorite book by this very talented author.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
April 11, 2018
How do you cope with something that tears apart your marriage and destroys your dreams for the future, leaving your self-esteem in tatters? How do you hold on to hope through all that? Catherine West delivers a powerful novel that is at once both utterly heartbreaking and ultimately hopeful. As the title suggests, Where Hope Begins is about starting over and finding that glimmer of hope in the harshness of broken dreams.
Savannah’s husband is leaving her. After twenty-one years of marriage, three children, and facing devastating challenges, he is leaving her for another woman. Unsure what her next move should be, Savannah heads to the safety of her parents’ holiday home. There she connects with her charming neighbours, writer and single dad, Brock and his sweet daughter Maysie, and Brock’s charming and quaint aunt, Clarice. They open their hearts, home, and greenhouse to Savannah and show her that she is worthy of love and grace. But when her husband asks to reconcile, Savannah’s world is sent into a spin once again as she must decide what she wants.
There is something a little magical about this book. From the descriptions of the frozen beauty of Savannah’s hideaway at the lake, to the all-knowing neighbour Clarice and her glasshouse like something out of Burnett’s Secret Garden. Where Hope Begins charmed and seduced me, and entangled me within its web of emotions, heartbreak, and story of second chances. The devastation Savannah feels is clear from the very first few sentences. And then, a few more paragraphs in, it is revealed that Savannah has already faced far, far worse. West so aptly conveys the tumultuous emotions Savannah experiences.
I underestimated the effect this book would have on me. It covers a range of sad and emotive topics, from adultery and relationship breakdown, to suicide, grief, and the gut wrenching loss of a child. Yet the emotions in Where Hope Begins hit me like a punch to the gut. I had to stop reading the last section and pick it up again when I had some time alone, so that I could fall apart completely without any witnesses to my reaction to this story. Tears of sadness, tear of joy, tears of amazement - Where Hope Begins should not be read without an accompanying box of tissues.
The whole book I was is suspense: would Savannah return to her husband? At first I really wanted it to work out one way and then I wasn’t sure. The best thing, I felt, was that there was no judgment. I felt that it would be okay no matter what Savannah chose and that understanding was present throughout the book. In fact, the only time a character delivers some sort of judgment or “you should do this” it is shut down pretty quickly. Yet this is just Savannah’s story. Because it worked out the way it did for her doesn’t mean that it would or should work for everyone, and West clarifies that message in her author’s note, reinforcing what she conveys in every word of this magnificent novel.
Where Hope Begins is written in first-person from Savannah’s perspective. It also includes third-person narration from the view-point of Brock and Zoe, Savannah’s daughter. These extra perspectives allow for the full impact of the story to be conveyed. Frequent flashbacks to times throughout Savannah’s twenty years of marriage serve to fill in the gaps of the events of the last twenty years and also reinforce the strong bond Savannah and her husband once shared.
If I had to choose only one word to describe Where Hope Begins it would be powerful. Powerful in its ability to convey such an incredibly sad story, incredibly sad events, in such a hopeful and grace-filled way. Powerful in its writing style and how it so quickly captures the emotions of the characters, drawing the reader into the story. Powerful in all the little things that tie together. A powerful ending (and that is a huge understatement). And powerful in its message of forgiveness, grace, and second chances.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library
Savannah’s husband is leaving her. After twenty-one years of marriage, three children, and facing devastating challenges, he is leaving her for another woman. Unsure what her next move should be, Savannah heads to the safety of her parents’ holiday home. There she connects with her charming neighbours, writer and single dad, Brock and his sweet daughter Maysie, and Brock’s charming and quaint aunt, Clarice. They open their hearts, home, and greenhouse to Savannah and show her that she is worthy of love and grace. But when her husband asks to reconcile, Savannah’s world is sent into a spin once again as she must decide what she wants.
There is something a little magical about this book. From the descriptions of the frozen beauty of Savannah’s hideaway at the lake, to the all-knowing neighbour Clarice and her glasshouse like something out of Burnett’s Secret Garden. Where Hope Begins charmed and seduced me, and entangled me within its web of emotions, heartbreak, and story of second chances. The devastation Savannah feels is clear from the very first few sentences. And then, a few more paragraphs in, it is revealed that Savannah has already faced far, far worse. West so aptly conveys the tumultuous emotions Savannah experiences.
I underestimated the effect this book would have on me. It covers a range of sad and emotive topics, from adultery and relationship breakdown, to suicide, grief, and the gut wrenching loss of a child. Yet the emotions in Where Hope Begins hit me like a punch to the gut. I had to stop reading the last section and pick it up again when I had some time alone, so that I could fall apart completely without any witnesses to my reaction to this story. Tears of sadness, tear of joy, tears of amazement - Where Hope Begins should not be read without an accompanying box of tissues.
The whole book I was is suspense: would Savannah return to her husband? At first I really wanted it to work out one way and then I wasn’t sure. The best thing, I felt, was that there was no judgment. I felt that it would be okay no matter what Savannah chose and that understanding was present throughout the book. In fact, the only time a character delivers some sort of judgment or “you should do this” it is shut down pretty quickly. Yet this is just Savannah’s story. Because it worked out the way it did for her doesn’t mean that it would or should work for everyone, and West clarifies that message in her author’s note, reinforcing what she conveys in every word of this magnificent novel.
Where Hope Begins is written in first-person from Savannah’s perspective. It also includes third-person narration from the view-point of Brock and Zoe, Savannah’s daughter. These extra perspectives allow for the full impact of the story to be conveyed. Frequent flashbacks to times throughout Savannah’s twenty years of marriage serve to fill in the gaps of the events of the last twenty years and also reinforce the strong bond Savannah and her husband once shared.
If I had to choose only one word to describe Where Hope Begins it would be powerful. Powerful in its ability to convey such an incredibly sad story, incredibly sad events, in such a hopeful and grace-filled way. Powerful in its writing style and how it so quickly captures the emotions of the characters, drawing the reader into the story. Powerful in all the little things that tie together. A powerful ending (and that is a huge understatement). And powerful in its message of forgiveness, grace, and second chances.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library
January 16, 2021
Reread 8-29-2020... this has popped up in a couple of on-line feeds over the last week. It’s beautifully written, but I cried through the entire book.
Original review... A well written but incredibly sad story. Could the story have been told with less tragedy? I think so.
Spoiler...
Nobody gets over the loss of a child, it’s been 10 years, their marriage is a disaster and they send their son to boarding school. This seemed odd to me and they send him back after a suicide attempt. Nope, can’t see any mother doing this, even one deep in depression and grief.
Original review... A well written but incredibly sad story. Could the story have been told with less tragedy? I think so.
Spoiler...
Nobody gets over the loss of a child, it’s been 10 years, their marriage is a disaster and they send their son to boarding school. This seemed odd to me and they send him back after a suicide attempt. Nope, can’t see any mother doing this, even one deep in depression and grief.
May 22, 2018
I don’t really know where to begin to review this book. All about a family that looks perfect from the outside but oh so imperfect. But are we not all imperfect, striving to be more Christ-like? That is if we are Christians.
This book is so emotional that you will laugh, smile, and cry so get ready for your heart to be touched. The author takes real and hard situations that happens to people and couples all the time and digs deep into their hearts and lets us feel the emotions of each character. Redemption for a soul that’s made a mess of their life may not be pretty at first, but sweet.
The writing was wonderful and the characters so real I felt like I knew their hearts and that I was their best friend. I was just so invested in these people!
I recommend this book to people that likes to read about real life and gritty situations well written. Don’t miss this one.
"I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions in this review are my own."
This book is so emotional that you will laugh, smile, and cry so get ready for your heart to be touched. The author takes real and hard situations that happens to people and couples all the time and digs deep into their hearts and lets us feel the emotions of each character. Redemption for a soul that’s made a mess of their life may not be pretty at first, but sweet.
The writing was wonderful and the characters so real I felt like I knew their hearts and that I was their best friend. I was just so invested in these people!
I recommend this book to people that likes to read about real life and gritty situations well written. Don’t miss this one.
"I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions in this review are my own."
March 21, 2018
One of the best stories I have read lately. A variety of emotions was felt while reading this one. Sadness, heartbreak, fear and then, hope, faith and love. The characters and the story line are so well written that I felt as if I was right there experiencing everything. I wanted to reach out and hug the main characters. A wonderful read. I received a copy of this book from the author and NetGalley. No review was required. This is my honest personal opinion of the story.
December 27, 2017
Wonderful characters, beautiful redemptive relationships. I loved the setting. Made me smile, made me cry. Catherine West has solidly become one of my favorite authors.
July 31, 2019
When I first noticed the book, "Where Hope Begins," by Catherine West on Goodreads some months ago, I felt impressed that it was one I should read. Call it divine intervention or a God nudge, it was a spiritual leading. I am so grateful I followed that leading, because this book was meant for me. Truth is, I am not really a romantic genre reader, but enjoy reading more about complex life situations. Although there is plenty of romance in, "Where Hope Begins" it also tackles some tough issues in such a brilliantly-written, hopeful, and even humorous way at times. I needed this book, since I sometimes struggle to believe in second chances for myself, even though I often write or speak about them for others. It's a smashing success of being everything a book should be. Its spirituality is a living breathing part of some of the characters, and never forced or added in for effect. I am over the moon for this book, can you tell? If you've lost someone you loved more than your own life, it might even renew your hope that tomorrow really could be better. Thank you for the gift of writing it, Cathetine West. A gazillion stars, okay 5 plus.
June 5, 2018
"I was what they call a "woman of faith" once. And now? Now I'm just broken."
Where Hope Begins by Catherine West is one of the best novels I've read this year. Okay, maybe even up there in the all time top twenty. (And just in case you're wondering, top twenty is huge considering I read between 200 and 300 books a year!) Right from the first line to the last, Catherine West compelled me to move forward. Almost like a trance, my eyes kept glue to the page. Word after word, page after page and thought after thought, I didn't want to stop.
"And some days I still believe I deserve this agonizing pain even more than he does."
There's a certain level of intensity in Where Hope Begins that enraptured me. Possibly because there's this special parallel between readers and the characters that necessitate this desire to seek something to hope for. Granted, I pray no one will have to go through what our characters been through, but even if the experiences are not the same, there's still the relativity of feelings one can comprehend.
"There is nothing worse than standing in a crowded room feeling completely alone."
Then there's our "darlin'" Brock.
"Yeah, he's a regular Rhett Butler."
That he is and he gave this story an element of humor plus more. So much that words aren't enough to describe from this non-writer. Like our main characters, Savannah and Kevin, there's brokenness. There's grief and pain. There's also a journey that makes for life's treasures. Brock had struck a chord in my heart, and along with the whole of Where Hope Begins, the different emotions felt so real, almost like the dilapidated greenhouse in the story. It just needed a little TLC, faith and ultimately the sprout of hope. Hope may be the theme here, but there's a bit of second chances for all our characters and in turn the meaning behind it.
Simply put, I love Where Hope Begins. Any book that'll get such a range of emotions from me deserves all stars, and o my stars is right! It's been awhile since a book made me ugly cry my way through, and that deserves all the stars it can get. Don't let this one pass you by.
"Sometimes we are allowed to glimpse the beauty within the brokenness. . ."
This review first appeared on Just Commonly blog.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.
Where Hope Begins by Catherine West is one of the best novels I've read this year. Okay, maybe even up there in the all time top twenty. (And just in case you're wondering, top twenty is huge considering I read between 200 and 300 books a year!) Right from the first line to the last, Catherine West compelled me to move forward. Almost like a trance, my eyes kept glue to the page. Word after word, page after page and thought after thought, I didn't want to stop.
"And some days I still believe I deserve this agonizing pain even more than he does."
There's a certain level of intensity in Where Hope Begins that enraptured me. Possibly because there's this special parallel between readers and the characters that necessitate this desire to seek something to hope for. Granted, I pray no one will have to go through what our characters been through, but even if the experiences are not the same, there's still the relativity of feelings one can comprehend.
"There is nothing worse than standing in a crowded room feeling completely alone."
Then there's our "darlin'" Brock.
"Yeah, he's a regular Rhett Butler."
That he is and he gave this story an element of humor plus more. So much that words aren't enough to describe from this non-writer. Like our main characters, Savannah and Kevin, there's brokenness. There's grief and pain. There's also a journey that makes for life's treasures. Brock had struck a chord in my heart, and along with the whole of Where Hope Begins, the different emotions felt so real, almost like the dilapidated greenhouse in the story. It just needed a little TLC, faith and ultimately the sprout of hope. Hope may be the theme here, but there's a bit of second chances for all our characters and in turn the meaning behind it.
Simply put, I love Where Hope Begins. Any book that'll get such a range of emotions from me deserves all stars, and o my stars is right! It's been awhile since a book made me ugly cry my way through, and that deserves all the stars it can get. Don't let this one pass you by.
"Sometimes we are allowed to glimpse the beauty within the brokenness. . ."
This review first appeared on Just Commonly blog.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.
May 26, 2018
Instead of five stars I want to give this ten hearts 💕. You will run a gamut of emotions while reading this and definitely need tissues. It deals will hard subjects that need to be addressed and talked openly about and this would be perfect for a book club discussion. It also shows there is hope no matter how dark our days. I have to say I was torn in how I wanted the outcome to be, because I grew to love each character in a different way...flaws and all. The writing is flawless and it moves like the tempo of your favorite melody. I feel it would make a wonderful movie as it resonates with so many of us who have faced these issues in our own lives. God gives beauty for ashes and this is a perfect example of that. I could go on and on, but just pick up a copy and be taken away into a story that draws you in and won’t let go even after you read the final page. The truths will stick with you and maybe have you examine how you react to situations. Definitely a must read...more than once. A keeper.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
March 19, 2018
This was a book I never wanted to end, and yet when it did, I sighed at the perfection of it all. It's rare I say that about a book – and I love books. I often comment on how I enjoy the plot, character development, and message of other books. I comment on how I anticipate more releases by the certain authors. And I comment on how certain themes challenge me. But this book was different. This one reached into my heart and soul in such a way that even now, days after finishing the last page, I feel the weight of the message. This was not a light read, as it was brimming with the intensity of gut wrenching issues such as the death of an innocent child, suicide, and adultery. And yet I read it faster than I've read any other book in a long time. Though I had to stop several times to process, find another kleenex, and examine my own heart, I could not put this book down. I even lent it to my early-to-bed father, who actually stayed up late because he couldn't stop reading either! What's exceptional here, is that this book is not gripping because of the action or suspense that normally drives an all night read. It's gripping because it's true, it's life, and it's not sugar coated. It's gripping because I see myself in the pages. I wasn't just reading a story about some random person and her struggles – I was reading about me. But please don't think this book was immersed in darkness and depression. On the contrary. For although the reality of life can be bleak, West reminds us that brokenness leads to beauty, and hope can still breath life into what seems dead.
Please read this book. It is breathtaking, painful, beautiful, and life giving all rolled into one. But come prepared with kleenex!
Please read this book. It is breathtaking, painful, beautiful, and life giving all rolled into one. But come prepared with kleenex!
May 11, 2018
4.5 stars
"My husband is leaving me."
The impact is devastating. Savannah Barrington has shared most of her life with a man whom has become a virtual stranger, and now he is calling it quits. The lure of a younger, more vibrant companion has stolen their joy; or at least that's what Savannah assumes has happened. In reality, their relationship has been fractured for years following the tragic death of their daughter, and neither of them has the energy to fight through the pain any longer.
Moving to her parents' lake home in the Berkshires provides Savannah with much needed solace, but it is accompanied by a prevailing loneliness that invades her every decision, until she happens upon unexpected companionship of her own. Is it possible that such a painful ending has birthed a new beginning, or is this just another mirage of happiness that will leave Savannah emptier than before? A much larger question arises; can Savannah truly move forward until she forgives what lies behind, and in doing so, discover the gift of second chances. That's precisely "where hope begins".
The author has written a powerful, emotional, authentic expose on human brokenness, its far-reaching tentacles spreading like cancer; though we are not left without hope. And hope does not disappoint. . .for it's "everything we don't deserve, but somehow get. It's the miracle of faith".
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The opinions stated are entirely my own.
"My husband is leaving me."
The impact is devastating. Savannah Barrington has shared most of her life with a man whom has become a virtual stranger, and now he is calling it quits. The lure of a younger, more vibrant companion has stolen their joy; or at least that's what Savannah assumes has happened. In reality, their relationship has been fractured for years following the tragic death of their daughter, and neither of them has the energy to fight through the pain any longer.
Moving to her parents' lake home in the Berkshires provides Savannah with much needed solace, but it is accompanied by a prevailing loneliness that invades her every decision, until she happens upon unexpected companionship of her own. Is it possible that such a painful ending has birthed a new beginning, or is this just another mirage of happiness that will leave Savannah emptier than before? A much larger question arises; can Savannah truly move forward until she forgives what lies behind, and in doing so, discover the gift of second chances. That's precisely "where hope begins".
The author has written a powerful, emotional, authentic expose on human brokenness, its far-reaching tentacles spreading like cancer; though we are not left without hope. And hope does not disappoint. . .for it's "everything we don't deserve, but somehow get. It's the miracle of faith".
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The opinions stated are entirely my own.
June 2, 2018
Wow. Amazing. Real. Raw. Genuine. Heart-wrenching. Breathtaking. All these words do not even begin to sum up how I feel about this book. Catherine West is not at all scared to bring real life topics into her Christian Fiction, and quite frankly I am glad about that. Infidelity, suicide, drinking excessively, a marriage torn apart. You don't see those in most of the Christian Fiction novels you read, but why is that? Is it because we try to sweep the real world under the rug and concentrate on characters who are "prefect Christians"? Don't get me wrong, I love those books too. But these characters seem real. I feel like I am on their level. I can connect with them in ways I cannot connect with a perfect character. To see a flawed character go through such a trial as what Savannah went through is a test of your own faith at times. Grab your tissues folks because it's going to be a long ride.
How to forgive the unforgivable? Is there anything unforgivable in a marriage? This books shows the fleshly answer, and the spiritual answer. But just as Savannah struggled with this herself, we struggle with that answer here in the real world. And if you dig a little deeper, you see so many underlying themes in this book. You see the reaping of sin. You see how it spirals, and affects so many around you. You see the repercussions of not leaning on the Lord, or your spouse. You see how easily families can be torn apart. But you also see the power of healing. You see growth, wisdom, and learning from mistakes. Yes, there is heartache. Yes there are times that you are torn as a reader, because you find that you really like Brock. Or maybe that's just me?! But as you keep reading you will find that Catherine West paints a beautiful picture of redemption, forgiveness, and healing. One that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Set aside plenty of time to read this my friends. And don't read too fast, because you are almost certain to miss something. And just wait until you meet sweet Maysie. Her bubbly personality is enough to put a smile on the saddest face. She lights up a scene just by simply being in it. As does Clarice. I found myself drawn to her character and her uncanny wisdom about all the things happening int he story. I kind of wish I had a Clarice in my life! I bet she would be such a support and help!
The bottom line is that you need this book in your life. Seriously. Buy a copy, borrow it, get it from the library, whatever it takes. I encourage you to share it with others. Read it as part of a book club discussion. That would be fantastic! Just be sure to read it. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
How to forgive the unforgivable? Is there anything unforgivable in a marriage? This books shows the fleshly answer, and the spiritual answer. But just as Savannah struggled with this herself, we struggle with that answer here in the real world. And if you dig a little deeper, you see so many underlying themes in this book. You see the reaping of sin. You see how it spirals, and affects so many around you. You see the repercussions of not leaning on the Lord, or your spouse. You see how easily families can be torn apart. But you also see the power of healing. You see growth, wisdom, and learning from mistakes. Yes, there is heartache. Yes there are times that you are torn as a reader, because you find that you really like Brock. Or maybe that's just me?! But as you keep reading you will find that Catherine West paints a beautiful picture of redemption, forgiveness, and healing. One that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Set aside plenty of time to read this my friends. And don't read too fast, because you are almost certain to miss something. And just wait until you meet sweet Maysie. Her bubbly personality is enough to put a smile on the saddest face. She lights up a scene just by simply being in it. As does Clarice. I found myself drawn to her character and her uncanny wisdom about all the things happening int he story. I kind of wish I had a Clarice in my life! I bet she would be such a support and help!
The bottom line is that you need this book in your life. Seriously. Buy a copy, borrow it, get it from the library, whatever it takes. I encourage you to share it with others. Read it as part of a book club discussion. That would be fantastic! Just be sure to read it. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 16, 2018
Wow! I finished this book a couple of nights ago but I needed to let all of the emotions Ms. West evoked in her story rest for awhile before I could write a legible review. I had to take breaks as I read because the emotions were so raw and genuine.
This book evoked all the emotions. I was Savannah ten years ago, and Ms. West got every emotion that a woman who finds out about her husband's infidelity right on the money. At least for me and other women I know.
Ms. West is one of my favorite Inspirational women's fiction authors because she isn't afraid to tackle tough topics that most Christian's, and loads of churches would rather just sweep under the proverbial rug and never discuss. Besides dealing with infidelity within a Christian marriage, this book tackles grief, addiction, along with suicide. Each are difficult on their own and quite overwhelming when all put together.
In dealing with issues like these the big questions are is forgiveness possible, and can this relationship be restored? Ms. West shows both the human and spiritual answer. As you read this book you will see undertones of reaping what you sow and how that impacts those around you especially the people you live with day to day. Another undertone is how trying to solve things yourself rather than leaning on God for healing and how that action can and will alienate the one person you love the most.
My Bottom Line:
This is a definite must read! You may want to stock up on Kleenex before hand, because you will cry and not just teary-eyed the ugly cry.
Ms. West placed the sweetest little girl named, Mayise in the story. Her sweet, bubbly personality just bursts onto the page. I love when little kids show up in books and Mayise is one of my favorites.
This is a book that you will have to take your time reading. Not just because of the raw emotion but because you may miss something.
While Ms. West shows all the raw, and genuine pain, like a composer she produces a melody of redemption, healing, and true forgiveness that will stay with you for a lifetime.
You need to read this book!
This book evoked all the emotions. I was Savannah ten years ago, and Ms. West got every emotion that a woman who finds out about her husband's infidelity right on the money. At least for me and other women I know.
Ms. West is one of my favorite Inspirational women's fiction authors because she isn't afraid to tackle tough topics that most Christian's, and loads of churches would rather just sweep under the proverbial rug and never discuss. Besides dealing with infidelity within a Christian marriage, this book tackles grief, addiction, along with suicide. Each are difficult on their own and quite overwhelming when all put together.
In dealing with issues like these the big questions are is forgiveness possible, and can this relationship be restored? Ms. West shows both the human and spiritual answer. As you read this book you will see undertones of reaping what you sow and how that impacts those around you especially the people you live with day to day. Another undertone is how trying to solve things yourself rather than leaning on God for healing and how that action can and will alienate the one person you love the most.
My Bottom Line:
This is a definite must read! You may want to stock up on Kleenex before hand, because you will cry and not just teary-eyed the ugly cry.
Ms. West placed the sweetest little girl named, Mayise in the story. Her sweet, bubbly personality just bursts onto the page. I love when little kids show up in books and Mayise is one of my favorites.
This is a book that you will have to take your time reading. Not just because of the raw emotion but because you may miss something.
While Ms. West shows all the raw, and genuine pain, like a composer she produces a melody of redemption, healing, and true forgiveness that will stay with you for a lifetime.
You need to read this book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 313 reviews