Swimming in the Deep End

by Christina Suzann Nelson

A moving novel entwining the many faces of motherly love

Jillian Cline has the perfect daughter: loving and smart, she's an Olympic hopeful with a bright future. But when Izzy becomes pregnant, Jillian fears that future is lost. Worse, she must confront her own secret past and hope the decisions she's made don't drown their whole family.

Izzy can't believe God let this happen to her. She knew the risks, but who thinks about that when they're in love? Now she has to face the consequences--and the disappointed stares from everyone who thought she was the perfect Christian girl. At least she has the baby's father, Travis. Nothing can tear them apart, right?

Margaret Owens had determined dreams for her son. She's furious that Izzy's pregnancy jeopardizes his college baseball scholarship and terrified that Travis will be trapped in a life of struggle and poverty--the life she's tried so hard to save him from. She'll do anything to protect him--even if it means forcing him to leave Izzy.

Stacey Frey is aching for a child of her own. But the son she was meant to adopt was taken before she could hold him in her arms. It feels like she'll never stop mourning; even the move to this new town hasn't distracted her from the pain. How can she and her husband find peace? Is there any hope of a family in their future?

And in the midst of all this . . . an unborn baby. Whose arms will hold him in the end?

Genres: Fiction, Christian Fiction, Christian, Coming Of Age, Family, Womens Fiction, Contemporary

288 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2018

About the author

Christina Suzann Nelson is an inspirational speaker and the award-winning author of If We Make It Home, Swimming in the Deep End, and More Than We Remember. The Way It Should Be releases February 2, 2021.She writes and speaks about hope after dysfunction. Christina is over the top about her passion for faith, family, fiction, and foster care. When she’s not writing, she’s working with the Every Child initiative, chasing escaped steers, reading, breathing in the sweet smell of her horse, hiking with her dog, or enjoying her just-as-crazy family.

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Swimming in the Deep End

Christina Suzann Nelson


Wow wow wow! SWIMMING IN THE DEEP END shredded my heart over and over again! Izzy is the perfect teenage daughter. Or at least that's how her mom, Jillian sees her, but when Izzy gets pregnant, it's as if Jillian's secret past comes back to haunt her. Wow, all I can say is, this story blew me away!


Keep the tissues close by as you are reading THE SWIMMING IN THE DEEP END by Christina Suzann Nelson. Once I started reading, it was very hard to stop! The twists and turns made it impossible to put down, as I had to know what was going to happen to Izzy and all of the other girls. What an awesome story. All of Christina's characters feel genuine and relatable and put your emotions on one heck of a roller coaster ride. As you are reading, you will find yourself cheering for all of them, praying they can work out their problems and be happy once again. You will also wonder how much heartache a person can stand before they completely break down and shatter.


SWIMMING IN THE DEEP END is a quick read and unputdownable! There were quite a few times when reading it that I wanted to reach into the pages and slap a few of these people with their wishy washy ways of thinking. I found myself laughing one second and then tearing up the next. If you are looking for a beautiful story to pull you out of your book slump, you can’t go wrong with SWIMMING IN THE DEEP END.


The twists and turns in SWIMMING IN THE DEEP END are going to keep you up late into the night trying to figure it out. One minute you believe you know where Izzy is going with her life and the next you are sitting there shaking your head, wondering what the heck just happened. I had my ideas, I had it all figured out, or so I thought, and BAM.......wrong again! Once you start reading, trust me, you aren't going to be able to stop! When everything is finally revealed, well, you won't believe it! What an emotionally packed story that will stay with you long after you finish!


I received a complimentary copy of this book from JustRead Publicity Tours. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a truly character driven story that evoked the full gamut of emotions in this reader. The story covers many issues including destroyed dreams, teen pregnancy, abortion, miscarriage, adoption, estranged family members, marital discord, tragic death, grief, and secrets. There are four different points of view: Jillian, who struggles with choices from her past and how the secrets affect her life, Izzy, who is Jillian's high school aged daughter who discovers she is pregnant as well as dealing with the grief of the death of her baby daddy and her part in it, Margaret who is the mother of Travis, Izzy's boyfriend who dies in a tragic accident and Stacey who so wants to be a mother, but is still dealing with her own grief and secrets.

I do not want to ruin this story for anyone so will talk about my feelings while reading this book. The characters in this story felt so real. The problems and their reactions to various situation were genuine and I could feel a real empathy for them. The girls in the house were all young and trying to make the best of the situation they found themselves in. I wish there was such a place around here as it really seemed to be helping these young women and their babies. As I read, I became invested in the stories of all the characters and yes, tissues were needed. The church families involved were amazing. There was acceptance of the girls and their situations, support of the home and a lot of prayer and forgiveness. If only we could always move forward without guilt and regret at things in our past that we can not change. There were a lot of twists and turns in the story. I thought I had it figured out, knowing what Izzy was going to do, then bam, she did what? There were times that I got frustrated with the characters and their actions and/or decisions, then the next minute I was cheering for them.

This was a book that once I started reading it, I didn't stop until I finished. It was a relatively quick read, and one that I enjoyed very much. It is an emotionally packed story that will stay with you long after you finish. This is a great book for anyone who loves emotional dramas, that are realistic and will have you reading instead of doing whatever you were supposed to be doing that day or night. I received a copy of this book from Just Read Publicity to read and review. The rating, ideas and opinions are my own.

[Kathryn in FL · Rating 4 out of 5]

This a very thought provoking story that will have an emotional impact on the reader. That is a consistent comment among reviewers and I agree.

Ms. Nelson handled the subject matter better than anyone I have read thus far. I had contemplated writing something on this topic but it never developed for me. I am so pleased to read this story as it was exceptional in the storyline, the realistic characters and the messages conveyed. Izzy in particular is so honestly portrayed. Her mother, Jillian is not at all emotionally connected to the many emotions that she faces because Jillian is so focused on her own secret turmoil. Family relationships are a powerful dynamic in several character's lives and they reflect common issues anyone would relate to in this drama. No one in this novel lives a perfect life and that is one of the reasons it is so powerful is because anyone can relate at least to one situation and possibly more.

Ms. Nelson tells a compelling saga and I think this would be a great read for teenagers and adults alike. It would also be a great book for book clubs and women's groups. This really rang close to home and I was super impressed by the author's loving delivery.

My only issue with this story was that it had some minor editorial issues. These did not impact the story and most people will probably not notice or care, it's just that I notice these things.

[Deborah Raney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a wonderful, warm, full-circle story of hope! I loved this author's first novel, IF WE MAKE IT HOME, but this one was even more heartwarming and compelling. Bring a box of tissues, be prepared to fall in love with these characters, and close the book at the end with a happy sigh.

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

Why did I wait so long to read this Women's/General Fiction novel? It's been on my shelves for years.

Wonderful novel about motherhood and adoption.

[Becca Rae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, to call this book "moving" is an understatement! Don't attempt to read this book without some tissues handy nearby! The characters are clearly going through the trenches, and the only way this story couldn't affect you is if you never open it up. I literally needed a few moments to compose myself before considering writing my review. This is such a powerful story and absolutely one that won't be forgotten.

A common theme throughout this story is that of regret. No one is immune from it. While the circumstances that produce it or the way they handle it may be different, the presence is clearly felt. One line that really stuck with me was "you've got to learn how to give up the guilt. It's only good when it helps you make wise decisions. You can't change the past" (loc 3935). How often do we look at our situations in life and dwell on our desire to wish we could change the past? It won't do us any good and yet we find ourselves stuck in a never-ending cycle. It isn't until we are able to fully let go and let God that we can begin to find healing. 

Crisis pregnancy is nothing new. Without a doubt it has the ability to rip a family to shreds and leave permanent scars on those involved. Unfortunately the world preaches abortion as if it's the simplest, most logical solution. What they don't tell you is that often the guilt from such a horrible procedure, can leave the mother emotionally broken for the rest of her life. And here's where my tears start back up. Yet when a mother makes the decision to parent or place her child in adoption--that's where love shows through. I don't know if the ministry home that the girls lived in in this story is real or not, but I do know places like it are truly in existence. It is because of a similar ministry that I have my husband and several sibs-in-law. His birth mother loved him enough to give him what she thought was his best chance in life. It wasn't because of a lack of love, but because of the fullness of love, that she had him placed in my in-laws arms as a newborn baby. Knowing a bit of that, you can imagine what an emotional ride this book was for me!

It's hard to share about this story without spoiling anything. In a very real way I'm still processing it, and dealing with leaking eyes. I know there are a lot of books that I sit here and recommend, but I honestly don't think I can recommend this enough. It's going straight into my favorites pile. It deals with some very difficult topics, but the process to redemption is fully worth the ride. If you give it a chance, this book will not leave you unchanged. Don't forget the tissues but absolutely pick it up.

*I received a copy of this book through the author and JustRead Publicity Tours through NetGalley. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.

[Carolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Swimming in the Deep End is powerful, moving, and realistic women's fiction that examines the heartache and joy of unplanned pregnancies from every angle. The author uses the first person point of view of generations of women burdened by the crosses of their own mistakes and from their families of origin in the context of an unplanned teen pregnancy, a tragedy, and a young couple whose hearts are ready to love a child - if only they could.

Through it all, the joy of new life and the unique, precious value of each life is uplifted as well as the goodness of God and the goodness of those from whom we may not expect either acceptance or love.

Without glossing over the heartache of grief, guilt, and sacrificial love, Christina Suzann Nelson shows the reader that there is joy to be found when we love, forgive, and support one another.

Highly recommended!

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

It took a while for the story to grab me but about a third of the way into the book, I was hooked. This is an emotionally packed novel. Nelson's writing style is such that I felt the turmoil and pain of each of the four main characters, such as the “perfect” Christian mother devastated by her unwed teen daughter's pregnancy.

There are many issues covered in this book, including destroyed dreams, teen pregnancy, abortion, miscarriage, adoption, estranged family members, marital discord, and tragic death. All of that in one novel may seem overwhelming. Yet Nelson pulls it off, weaving together all of those issues as the novel progresses. I was amazed at how Nelson developed the plot to include healing in all of those areas through God's grace and peoples' love. And there was a surprise at the end I did not see coming but made perfect sense, even though it was emotionally hard to accept.

I highly recommend this novel to readers who enjoy emotionally packed character driven stories. I feel I must offer a caution, however. I have never experienced any of the issues included in the book first hand and yet the novel had a great emotional effect on me. I can't imagine how a reader who has experienced a failed adoption or a teen pregnancy or any of the other issues included would be impacted by this novel. I think you would find healing in these pages but first your heart might hurt deeply.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful, heartrending read, taking on teen pregnancy, abortion and adoption. The author digs deep into the hearts of each character - the girl who becomes pregnant and her parents, the boy who fathered the baby and his family, a childless couple who have been on a long, difficult journey toward adoption. There are so many secrets; secrets that are tearing lives apart, secrets that must come out for healing to take place. This book gives hope that there is a path forward for all concerned.

The only caveat I had was that there were so many characters and so many points of view. I started the book over several times because I was confused about the various characters and almost DNFd it. Finally, I wrote them all down on a sheet of paper so I could keep them straight, and then I became invested in the story. If anyone else has that problem, I would suggest you do the same.

There is the Cline family - Jillian and her husband Garrett, daughter Izzy and son Zach.
There is the Owens family - Margaret is the single mother of four sons, but only two of whom figure greatly in the story: Travis and Devan.
There is the Frey family - Stacey and Keith, wanting children but so far not been able to have them, and hoping to adopt.

Then there are some important secondary characters:
- Officer Curtis Hobbs, who takes an interest in Margaret's boys, and in Margaret herself
- Irene Smith, the live-in housemother at a home for pregnant teens

I wish the author had included a page at the beginning of the book like what I've detailed above. I kept referring back to mine every time she changed points of view, which was often.

Otherwise, a wonderful book - would have been five stars for me if it hadn't been for the confusing multiple points of view and too numerous characters.

[Andi Tubbs · Rating 3 out of 5]

From reading other reviews it seems as though I am in the minority when it comes to my thoughts about this book. First, this is the first book by this author that I've read. I was originally asked by Kregel publications to review this book and then signed up for the review tour with Just Reads because I already had a copy.

Overall this is a good read. Ms. Nelson pulls at the heart strings which keeps you reading. Hidden secrets create an intrigue to find out what drives the women in the book to make the decisions they have and do.
With that said. It is my opinion that Ms. Nelson’s use of words such as put up, and placed are an attempt to be politically correct. The usage of these terms are offensive to me as an adopted child.

I was not put anywhere, nor was I placed on a shelf and forgotten about. I wasn't given away either. My birth mother gave me, a precious child to my parents as a gift because they could not have a baby on their own. She also gave my parents the gift of family. Using those words and phrases in my opinion takes away the beauty of adoption, and devalues the love the birth mother has for her child.

Close to the end of the book Ms. Nelson calls the pregnancy a mistake. God allowed the pregnancy which doesn't make the pregnancy a mistake. By calling the pregnancy a mistake you are then saying the baby is. My youngest daughter got pregnant in her final year of high school, she married the father and we have a beautiful eight year old granddaughter who is the apple of our eye. She was not a mistake. The timing of the pregnancy wasn't perfect but the she wasn’t a mistake because God ordained her life.

My review may sound as though I am being overly critical of this book, but being adopted, having found my birth mother, knowing the truth about my conception which mirrors one in the story, and how much my birth mother loved me gives me a completely different perspective than an average reader. I have also committed to being truthful with my reviews for both the reader and author without being mean or hurtful.

This is a good emotional women's fiction novel with the themes of hope, forgiveness of others and self, how the pain keeping secrets cause not only to the one keeping the secrets but those that love them run vividly throughout the book. Be aware that the subject matter includes pre-marital sex, abortion, adoption, child loss, and grief.

[Melissa (So Behind) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a moving story that covers many issues involving teen pregnancy, grief, keeping secrets, estranged family members, and many other things that go along with each of those.
The tale is told from four different points of view: Jillian, who struggles with choices from her past that continue to affect her life, marriage, and parenting. Izzy, who is Jillian's high school aged daughter and has a future in competitive swimming, yet discovers she is pregnant. Margaret is the mother of Travis, Izzy's boyfriend. She's a single mom trying to be the best parent she can, but she barely makes ends meet and isn't present much for her boys. Stacey and her husband have just moved to town, they desire to be parents but have experienced the loss of a child and are starting to think about moving forward with another adoption.

I found the tale to be fascinating, I was definitely drawn to certain characters more than others. The plot didn't take the direction I thought it would, which was surprising and made the book more interesting. I didn't think the choices that Izzy ultimately made were very realistic, they didn't ring true with the way she felt throughout the book and with her age and maturity level. Overall, the novel is captivating and has a gamut of emotions that I could relate to in one way or another. The themes of forgiveness of yourself and others resonate throughout.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.

[Emily Yager · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is written in a way that tells the same story from four different points of views, that deals with some emotional and some difficult issues. It took me a little while before I really got into this story, mostly because I had a hard time relating to some of the aspects in this book. Overall, I enjoyed this story. Be warned, you will need a box of tissues when reading this beautifully written emotional book.

[Marylin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, the deep emotions I experienced while reading this book! I am still wading through the waves they have made in my life this week. Christina Suzann Nelson is a fairly new author to me, but I believe I'll be reading more of her works.
This story was compelling and so full of relational aspects. It was well written and flowed smoothly, so smooth that at the end my heart was spilling all over the place. I felt I knew these women and had walked with them through all their issues. I ached with those who ached and I rejoiced with those who rejoiced.
I appreciate the way the author wrote about the sensitive issues that affect many women these days. The choices we make and how it can change lives through generations.
If you aren't afraid to get your feet wet, dive into this book, you won't be disappointed!
I received this book from the publisher for an honest review. All opinions are my own. I highly recommend this book.

[Carole Jarvis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed at The Power of Words: https://bit.ly/2SeJtIB

Emotionally gripping, bittersweet, compelling and heartwarming … Swimming in the Deep End is an engrossing read that I highly recommend. In a realistic and thought-provoking way, it shines the light on emotional themes of teen pregnancy, abortion, infertility, and adoption.

I grew up loving women’s fiction and have long been frustrated at the lack of these stories in Christian fiction. With the release of Swimming in the Deep End, Christina Suzann Nelson has joined the ranks of a handful of authors who write quality fiction in this genre – right up there with Cynthia Ruchti and Kellie Coates Gilbert.

The use of four different voices works very well – mothers of soon-to-be-parent teens (Jillian and Margaret), the teenage girl herself (Izzy), and an infertile young woman (Stacey) – and gives insight into all their thoughts and struggles in a personal way. This story plumbs the depths of almost every emotion imaginable and I never wanted to put it down. Guilt, regret, and fear are major themes – emotions that we can all identify with, even though the root cause might be different.

Christina Suzann Nelson is a gifted writer, with a prose that flows effortlessly, complex characters, and multilayered storylines. Jillian, with her guilt-ridden secret from 20 years ago and her craving for control as her comfortable world fell apart, is a character that I wanted to wrap my arms around. Another character that grabbed my heart is Irene, manager of the home for teenage girls in a crisis pregnancy, a home filled with faith and hope.

It was impossible not to shed some tears while reading, many of which were tears of happiness. This story is filled with imperfect Christians, just like us, who learn that God works to fulfill His purpose in every situation. These words, spoken to Jillian by her husband, especially spoke to my heart: “Sometimes, especially in the tough times, we have to come to God even if it’s only in obedience.”

Swimming in the Deep End is a story of the highest quality, a “best of the best” read for me. I hope many more stories flow from the pen of Christina Suzann Nelson. Very highly recommended.

I received a copy of this book through JustRead Tours. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

[Debi Stout · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating 4.5 Stars!!
Back in October, I received an email from Ms. Nelson asking if I would be interested in reading her book, Swimming in the Deep. I responded with a quick "yes" based on what I had read about the book.  Just a couple of weeks later, JustRead Tours sent out a sign up for their Blog Tour for the same book and I couldn't help but to sign up since I knew the book would soon be coming in the mail!

To be honest, I get hundreds of emails every week from publishing companies and authors asking me if I'm interested in their books. Ninety percent of the time I have to decline these offers - not always because I'm not interested, but because my "to be read" stack can easily get out of hand thanks to -- well, life itself -- the day to day living, work, and medical visits with my spouse.  This book, Swimming in the Deep End, was one I was glad I didn't pass up!

I'll warn you to grab your tissues so you'll be ready for this emotionally packed book! You won't help but to be affected by your emotions if you are a human being and you read this book!  

The story is provided to readers with four different points of view.  First there's Jillian, whose past choices continue to cause her to struggle both in her marriage and as a parent.  Jillian's daughter and teenager, Izzy, is slated to have a future in competitive swimming, but she discovers she is pregnant.  Izzy's boyfriend is Travis and his mother, Margaret is trying to do the best she can as a single mother.  She can barely make ends meet and unfortunately this causes her to be absent in the lives of her four sons.  Last there's Stacey, who has just moved to town with her husband.  They've experienced the loss of a child after their efforts to adopt ended in failure. It has been two years and they are finally ready to move forward and give adoption another chance.

By the end of this story, readers will learn some surprising details about a prominent figure, and they will see God’s love, forgiveness, and grace shining throughout the story.  The story and the characters felt real and believable, and it grabbed me at the start and moved me throughout. I enjoyed the story very much and I'm glad I had the opportunity to read it.  I would recommend Swimming in the Deep End to anyone looking for a strong, deep and powerful read that will touch your heart long after you've finished the book.

I received a complimentary paperback copy of this book from the author, and then I received a digital copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own and a positive review was not required. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Sydney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Swimming in the Deep End by Christina Suzann Nelson is a powerful and inspiring story of four women whose stories intertwine. From page one, readers will be pulled into the book as the characters and stories of these four women spring from the pages and become real to the reader. Readers will follow the women through some of the hard times in their lives and watch as they learn, grow, blossom, and overcome these struggles through hope. There is also a strong theme of handling and dealing with teen pregnancy. Readers will not forget this strong and stirring story that will touch deep in the heart of all, especially women readers.

Genre: fiction, Christian, Women’s
Publisher: Kregel Publications
Publication date: September 25, 2018
Number of pages: 288

A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley and JustRead Tours. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

[Caitlyn Santi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't often read women's fiction novels, but the description of this one intrigued me so I jumped at the opportunity to review it! This is an absolutely wonderful book that I very much enjoyed reading. Swimming in the Deep End does touch on some tough subjects (teen pregnancy, abortion, family issues, grief after the loss of a loved one) but I felt that all these topics were handled with fabulous grace in a manner that most readers would not find offensive.
This book is told in first person POV alternating between the perspectives of four different women, something that I wouldn't normally like all that much, but for this story it worked beautifully and each character had such a unique voice that I never once got confused about which character's head I was in! The faith story was so real, heart-stirring, and incredibly moving, it grabbed my heart and wouldn't let go! This is truly a wonderful read! I enjoyed it so much, and am so glad I read it! I highly recommend Swimming in the Deep End to anyone who is looking for a deep, powerful read that will touch your heart and soul and leave a lasting imprint long after you close the book! I have Christina Suzann Nelson's first book on my Kindle and I look forward to reading it (as well as anything she writes in the future) because I absolutely love her writing style!


I received an ebook copy of this book from the publisher which did not influence my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.

[Melony · Rating 4 out of 5]

This author has tackled a difficult subject and she has done so in a way that gripped me from page one. By the last few pages, I was bawling like a baby. What a touching story of hope in difficult circumstances.
I loved how the characters paths were interwoven. Cleverly done.
This story is written in the first person which makes it all the more intense.

[Kellie Stocker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished reading this book on a snowy day. As the snow fell and I reached the last few pages my tears fell. The story has an array of characters and the strength of many women who choose life. Great read and I look forward to reading another from this author!

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This book will break your heart open but in the breaking you will see the light hope. 

I was drawn into the brokenness of this book. The secrets that have been kept buried but needed to come up for air to set the characters free. 

My words are not enough to express how deeply this book touched my heart. This is a must read. If you are looking for a book that will move you pick this one up and be prepared to take a look at some tough truths. 

A copy of this book was given to me through Netgalley.com. All opinions are my own. 

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Swimming in the Deep End has so many dimensions; Christina Nelson addresses life-changing, heart-wrenching decisions regarding teenage pregnancy, adoption, abortion, all told from the various characters’ point of views, and how those issues affect marital and family relationships. Yet it remains a powerful novel showing how these characters’ lives are interwoven, with a few surprises sprinkled in. At times you’ll find yourself crying, other times rooting on one of the precious pregnant women, and there will be some happy tears too!

Although many will find the subject matter very emotional, especially for those who have experienced some of these difficult issues, I believe there may be some healing potential in these pages. God’s love, forgiveness, and grace shines throughout. This book will tug at your heart strings long after you’ve finished.

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Sarah Bowe · Rating 4 out of 5]

An emotional story all about the love of a mother. There are 4 mothers that we follow the journey of. Mistakes are made and have the mothers wondering where they went wrong. Get ready for the tissues at the end!

[Anne Marie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m disappointed. I know a lot of people will disagree with me but this was not the ending I wanted for this book. The stories of each of the characters were predictable, but I just feel with this ending Izzy just gave up. And I think the main reason for giving up her baby was simply feeling sorry for the woman who wanted a baby.
This story, extremely well written and engaging, focused on women who were all connected in some way. Jillian is Izzy’s mother. She wants the best for her high school daughter...in her swimming competitions, schooling, and who she hangs out with. Travis, Izzy’s boyfriend, is not high on her list. He comes from a broken family; single mother barely making ends meet, one brother in prison, the other in the marines to get away from his home.
Both Jillian and Margaret, Travis’ mother, easily find out about the pregnancy. Bright futures for their children go down the drain. Even worse, after an argument with Izzy, Travis gets into a fatal car accident. Izzy is so devastated, she wants to move to a place away from her parents that help unwed pregnant mothers. It turns out to be the best place for her. She becomes close with the pregnant girls, has a great support system in Irene, the woman who runs the home, and has time to think about what she wants to do once the baby is born. She has decided to keep the baby, even though she feels out of guilt, thinking it was her fault Travis was in the accident.
Stacey and her husband Keith have moved to Oregon for a fresh start. They can’t have children of their own, and the adoption that took place previously, tragically ended when the baby died only hours after being born. Through a few coincidences in meeting Irene, Stacey becomes a regular volunteer at A Child’s Home. Stacey and Keith even go to an adoption agency to start the process over again. They are soon picked to be parents by a girl, Candice, and things are going okay, but once the baby is born, Candace changes her mind about giving up her baby.
Izzy has her baby girl, Carson. She is surrounded by love, and even though her father has passed, she is a lucky girl to have a mother who loves her and with time and effort could handle being a mom. Izzy’s parents have become stronger in their marriage with secrets out in the open (Jillian had an abortion and hasn’t spoken to her mother in ages). But lo and behold her mother is actually Irene from A Child’s
Home! Margaret, Travis’ mother, will always grieve for Travis, but slowly her life is getting much better. She not only gets custody of her sister’s baby but gets married to Curtis, a policeman who has loved her for a long time.
With all these loving family members, I feel Izzy just did the wrong thing. I honestly feel she gave up. Her entire family is so in love with Carson. Yes, Carson will visit her biological family, but if I were Izzy, that would be very difficult to handle! Izzy could do anything she wants with her life in time! She’s being negative thinking she’ll never find a man who wants her with a child already. She’s so young! Stacey and Keith of course are over the moon finally getting a baby. But my feelings are in time another baby would be found for them at the adoption agency. Maybe one is found in the fictional world, maybe even two.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Swimming in the Deep End is a women’s fiction novel by author Christina Suzann Nelson. I chose to read this novel because I reviewed another book by this same author and it’s published by a publisher I trust, Kregel.

There is a gamut of emotions throughout the book as the author touches on some tough subjects. A couple of the subjects are teen pregnancy and abortion, there are others. I do wish the author would have gone into a deeper relationship with God, not just a brief mention here and there throughout the book. I did appreciate the surprise ending. This is a book of grace and forgiveness that I recommend to fans of women’s fiction.

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

[K P · Rating 5 out of 5]

Swimming in the Deep End, by new author Christina Suzann Nelson, is a tale I will not soon forget!

This book is set up to tell the same story from four different perspectives. First, you meet Jillian, mother to Izzy, a teenager who has a life ahead of her in competitive swimming. Jillian daily struggles with a secret, she has kept hidden for twenty years. Then, you are introduced to Izzy, whose life is about to change, when she discovers she is pregnant. Izzy and her boyfriend, Travis, must make some serious life decisions!

Next, you hear the story from Margaret's perspective, a single mother, who has been struggling to raise four sons. Margaret does not know which way to turn when her son, Travis, dies in a automobile accident. Finally, you meet Stacey, a young woman who is unable to become pregnant. Stacey and her husband have moved to a new home, after their efforts to adopt ended in failure. It has been two years and they are finally ready to give adoption another chance!

This book will have you reading page after page to discover where each of these characters land. By the end of this tale, you will learn some jaw dropping details about one of the prominent figures you meet along the way. You definitely will see God at work in each of these lives!

[Tracie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christina Suzann Nelson’s latest novel, Swimming in the Deep End, has the perfect title. As women—mothers, grandmothers, daughters, or sisters—we often feel we swim in the deep end when it comes to the women we love. We care for them, we want the best for them, we hurt with them and rejoice with them. Readers will do all these things as they travel with Nelson’s characters on journeys of discovery, acceptance, and love. We are caught up in these stories of babies, friends, and family. Nelson’s writing skill shines through her individual characters and their unique voices. A strong addition to Christian women’s fiction, and yes, there’s even a thread of romance. Swimming in the Deep End has it all—a great read for a wide audience. I’ll be looking for Nelson’s next novel!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This story was very well written. Keep the tissues handy as Ms Nelson has written an extremely emotional story. The issues are hard, & gritty. There is no soft & easy life. Rather it tackles life's questions "which choice is the better choice when there is no best choice available?" I enjoyed her ability to show each characters thought processes, & what led them to think the way that they did. It was a deep book that I would highly recommend. I would clarify that there are some trigger issues, so please use discretion before reading if you struggle with a past abortion, adoption, unplanned pregnancy, or having ever lost a child.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked it. I think the reason I didn’t love it is because of the stage of life I’m in. I really couldn’t relate to any of the characters. But! I do think it’s a good story of pregnancy from lots of viewpoints. Teenagers, infertility, addicts, adoption, pregnancy centers, life and death and how babies affect families. Good read!

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very moving book. Izzy (17 years old), Jillian (Izzy's mother), Margaret (Mrs. Owens, mother of Izzy's deceased "baby-daddy"), and Stacey (desperate to adopt a child), are the four major narrators, but their stories touch and affect other women around them, too. Keep a box of tissues handy; you'll need them.

(Editing oversights found in the Kindle version of Swimming In The Deep End:

Location 147, a couple Christmases ago / a couple OF Christmases ago ; 162, but what can we expect from a boy like Travis Owens, son of a drunken father, brother of a crook. / but what can we expect from a boy like Travis Owens, son of a drunken father, brother of a crook? (phrased as a question) ; 431, as well as a couple playhouses / as well as a couple OF playhouses ; 521, The fear someone would find out / The fear THAT someone would find out ; 710, Well isn't that a special blessing. / Well, isn't that a special blessing? (phrased as a question) ;

Location 1046, A couple weeks / A couple OF weeks ; 1711, honesty may have made a difference / honesty MIGHT have made a difference ; 1788, What if this is a way to cushion the blow, and they're all just fixin' to say no. / What if this is a way to cushion the blow, and they're all just fixin' to say no? (phrased as a question) ; 1801, You're a real trooper / You're a real TROUPER ; 2188, it gave me a couple days to enjoy / it gave me a couple OF days to enjoy ; 2231, over the last couple months / over the last couple OF months ;

Location 2670, as the fact they did come / as the fact THAT they did come ; 2744, I'm only a couple feet away / I'm only a couple OF feet away ; 2750, pick out a couple outfits / pick out a couple OF outfits ; 2781, You'll have to trust me then / You'll have to trust me, then ; 3429, all the times I may not have had / all the times I MIGHT not have had ; 3534, in the last couple months / in the last couple OF months ; 3590, in another couple weeks / in another couple OF weeks ;

Location 3603, Do you have a place we can change the baby? / Do you have a place WHERE we can change the baby? ; 3861, It squeaky, almost muted / IT'S squeaky, almost muted ; 3981, for another couple weeks / for another couple OF weeks ; 3989, Miss Carson has a couple visitors / Miss Carson has a couple OF visitors ; 4024, Coming from you that's a blessing to hear / Coming from you, that's a blessing to hear ; 4086, As I pull into the parking lot my fears are confirmed / As I pull into the parking lot, my fears are confirmed ;

Location 4135, bright enough I can see / bright enough THAT I can see ; 4193, I think I may have done / I think I MIGHT have done ; 4196, No matter what may have happened / No matter what MIGHT have happened ; 4286, fills the air ina the entire house / fills the air IN the entire house ; 4336, Thanks Karen Bennett, Heidi Gaul, and Marilyn Rhoads / Thanks TO Karen Bennett, Heidi Gaul, and Marilyn Rhoads .)

[Jessica Higgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a prime example of how everything can come full circle.

Izzy Cline is a terrific swimmer who has a dream of competing in the Olympics. At least until she realizes that she is pregnant. Still in high school, she and her boyfriend Travis had plans. He was going to be the first in his family to go to college and he would do it on a baseball scholarship. Izzy would swim in college and at the Olympics. That all seems like a distant dream now. At least nothing can tear her and Travis apart.

Izzy’s mom Jillian is pinning her hopes on her daughter. But when she sees that Izzy is pregnant, it conjures up painful memories of her past. As she tries to force Izzy to do things her way, she begins to cause a huge rift between herself and the rest of the family. Will she be able to deal with the issue before the family is completely torn apart?

Travis’s mom Margaret wants a different life for her son than she had. Travis father was a drunk who was rarely around with Travis’s older brothers and once Travis was born he pretty much took off. But this pregnancy worries Margaret that the will get trapped in the same kind of life she is in and she wants to make sure this doesn’t affect her dreams for him.

Stacey Frey and her husband have just moved to the area. Not able to conceive children of their own, they have recently gone through a horrible adoption experience and have been healing to try the process again. God works in mysterious ways and Stacey begins to get involved in a home for young mothers. As events begin to play out, an unexpected story of healing affects all four main characters.

This was one of the most interesting books that I have read where the main characters are all interconnected. At least three separate stories that appear to have little relevance with each other begin to weave a pattern until they are fully intertwined. Nelson has always done a great job of taken women with a broken spirit as her characters and forming them into someone that is strong and both supported and supportive. This book is no different. Each of these women has gone through a traumatic experience that has broken their spirit and it takes all of them to realize how to move forward.

I highly recommend this book to all readers. It’s just a great story that should be read by all.

I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions express within are my own.