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The Children of Main Street
The children come—scores of them. Broken. Suffering. Learning to survive. These are not the clients Katie Collier expected to help when she went to work at the mental-health clinic. But Katie and her husband can't have children of their own, so her natural compassion flows. Still, Katie wonders why God gives babies to some women who seem unwilling to care, feed, love, shelter—even hold, and leaves other women barren. Then one day it happens. A little girl named Bailey walks into Main Street Clinic … walks straight into Katie’s broken heart. Forced to choose between her husband and her career, Katie fights to hold onto both in order to save Bailey. When her husband gives her the ultimate ultimatum, Katie finds the children of Main Street are not the only ones feeling cast out and lost. Written for the General Market (G): Contains little or no; sexual dialogue or situations, violence, or strong language.
263 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2018
176 people are currently reading
1078 people want to read
About the author
Merilyn Howton Marriott
2 books26 followersMerilyn Howton Marriott, who is originally from Greenpond, Alabama, holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas. She is a highly-respected licensed professional counselor who has owned practices across Texas, where she specialized in treating traumatized children. She and her husband Rick make their home in Spring, Texas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
November 15, 2018
I didn't really know what to expect with this book - but it exceeded whatever I might have imagined. I was drawn into the characters' lives right from the start and held until the end. Touching and eye-opening, this at-times heart-wrenching book introduces the reader to the life and family of a woman who feels called by God to help anyone who comes to her clinic - with the result that work is taking over her life, so that in the end it comes down to a choice between her husband and her work. But her work is not just work, it is vulnerable children, some of whom have no one else to turn to. How can she leave them in the lurch, even for her beloved husband? And yet how can she live without him?
While hard to put down, it was also not easy reading at times, because of some of the problems faced by the kids she helped. While nothing is graphic to the point of unpleasantness, the writing is good enough that things don't need to be described graphically to put the reader in the situations described. The book was well worth the read, and the ending was highly satisfying. All in all, though this is the first book I've read by the author, I hope it won't be the last. Highly recommended.
Note that I received an ARC from the publisher and have chosen to leave an honest review.
While hard to put down, it was also not easy reading at times, because of some of the problems faced by the kids she helped. While nothing is graphic to the point of unpleasantness, the writing is good enough that things don't need to be described graphically to put the reader in the situations described. The book was well worth the read, and the ending was highly satisfying. All in all, though this is the first book I've read by the author, I hope it won't be the last. Highly recommended.
Note that I received an ARC from the publisher and have chosen to leave an honest review.
November 19, 2019
Poignant!
December 26, 2018
Excellent book
I was not sure what this book would be like, especially when I learned that author had written one book, but decided to try it anyway. It is the story of a psychologist and a child she worked with. They child had problems because of mistreatment by adults who were supposed to take care of her. With the help of a skilled professional, the child was able to recover from abuse by relatives.
I was not sure what this book would be like, especially when I learned that author had written one book, but decided to try it anyway. It is the story of a psychologist and a child she worked with. They child had problems because of mistreatment by adults who were supposed to take care of her. With the help of a skilled professional, the child was able to recover from abuse by relatives.
November 23, 2018
Port Arthur, TX. Jillian Reynolds (40, wife/mother, Nurse) had her 1st. appointment at the mental health clinic.
Jacy Reynolds (16, daughter/sister), & Justin Reynolds (13, son/brother) followed in the next session.
Jillian quit going to see Dr. Katheryn “Katie” Collier (39, wife, LPC, narrator).
Katie’s next client is Cindy Thibbodeaux (mother, nee Martin, Catholic), & Billy Martin (4, son/brother).
News flash: there had been a murder-suicide in an apartment complex.
Katie took a liking to Bailey Russell (6, Thomas’ daughter/sister) & she moved in & started 1st grade.
Jordan Collier (husband) had moved out for now.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written biblical oriented fiction book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great biblical oriented movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Firefly Southern Fiction; BookFunnel; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Jacy Reynolds (16, daughter/sister), & Justin Reynolds (13, son/brother) followed in the next session.
Jillian quit going to see Dr. Katheryn “Katie” Collier (39, wife, LPC, narrator).
Katie’s next client is Cindy Thibbodeaux (mother, nee Martin, Catholic), & Billy Martin (4, son/brother).
News flash: there had been a murder-suicide in an apartment complex.
Katie took a liking to Bailey Russell (6, Thomas’ daughter/sister) & she moved in & started 1st grade.
Jordan Collier (husband) had moved out for now.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written biblical oriented fiction book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great biblical oriented movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Firefly Southern Fiction; BookFunnel; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
February 8, 2019
The Children of Main Street was a very heart squeezing read! The characters were so believable, especially the main character, a therapist to troubled children. If this story was based on reality I'm devastated to learn what some children go through in life. All children deserve to be cared for and loved. A well-written story that truly appealed to the heart of this southern girl. Well done!
August 22, 2019
Heartbreaking and heartwarming
The story of a loving psychologists who gets too emotionally involved with her patients. Especially the children. She is exceptional at working with kids and gives way too much only to lose so much personally. She must learn boundaries or her life will dissolve completely.
The story of a loving psychologists who gets too emotionally involved with her patients. Especially the children. She is exceptional at working with kids and gives way too much only to lose so much personally. She must learn boundaries or her life will dissolve completely.
June 27, 2020
Mesmerizing Christian-based story about the life of a children's counselor written in first person. Catherine and her husband wanted a baby in the worst way but despite prayers were not blessed. Instead she delved into her work as a family counselor, particularly becoming involved in children's lives through their complicated problems. She would, at times, bring them home for a short period of time as a reprieve during a traumatic situation. When she brings Bailey home, her husband Jordon, unable to cope of 'not feeling cherished' packs and moves out, breaking her heart. Despite her 'groveling' for his return, he floats in and out of the house at will. (Somehow, this is confusing that a man wants children, yet feels ' not cherished' when she provides a short-long term reprieve during emergencies. Then blames it on her that he feels this way.) Seems extremely self-centered and selfish on his part, but the novel is full of parents with the same issue, causing all types of behavior and interactive problems. Well-written and presented in first person causes one to become totally immersed in the scenario. An entertaining and educational read particularly for those involved in psychology, counseling, teaching, or parenting.
March 12, 2021
Really Touching
The Children of Main Street is extremely well written. There was only one clerical error in the entire 254 pages. The writer does not draw the story out with unnecessary tedious details, etc. The children in the story are so pitiful and the real problem is there are so many over the entire world who are worse off than these. If only there really could be counselors in the world who wanted to help and cared as much as Katie. However I'm afraid there aren't and even if there are I don't think they would last long. What a terribly heavy load to carry. I grew up in the church and have gone most of my life and I try to believe but when I see the things happening to children everywhere ( and those are only the ones we hear about) I don't understand how a loving god could allow these things to happen. I hear " we are given free will". Well what about the little ones? Where is their free will? If you want to read a really good book, this is it. But I 'm warning you it makes you smile but it made me oh so sad.
The Children of Main Street is extremely well written. There was only one clerical error in the entire 254 pages. The writer does not draw the story out with unnecessary tedious details, etc. The children in the story are so pitiful and the real problem is there are so many over the entire world who are worse off than these. If only there really could be counselors in the world who wanted to help and cared as much as Katie. However I'm afraid there aren't and even if there are I don't think they would last long. What a terribly heavy load to carry. I grew up in the church and have gone most of my life and I try to believe but when I see the things happening to children everywhere ( and those are only the ones we hear about) I don't understand how a loving god could allow these things to happen. I hear " we are given free will". Well what about the little ones? Where is their free will? If you want to read a really good book, this is it. But I 'm warning you it makes you smile but it made me oh so sad.
March 25, 2019
Merilyn Howton Marriott weaves a poignant story that will draw readers in from the first page. As they step into the mental health clinic on Main Street in Port Arthur, they meet Katie, a steel magnolia with a gentle healing touch. The story unfolds as she fiercely and sacrificially defends those who have no protection. Katie owns the clinic and has taken out a mortgage on every broken heart that seeks out healing in this place. Can she make the payments or will it cost her everything? As the children and their parents continue to arrive, Katie becomes utterly overwhelmed by their needs. Her husband and friends try to warn her, but she is unable to trust anyone else to tend the broken hearts, including her own. Her faith is tested and she has to seek her heavenly father as the only one who can bring redemption.
May 11, 2019
Children of Main St.
I enjoyed reading this book, which deals with problems of some children. The characters seemed believable and the subject fell into the category of one I am not all that comfortable with. There are many more damaged children in today's society so kept reading the details. One family, and punishment reminded me of a family I know. It's difficult to understand how an adult could harm their own child. I have witnessed many "step" parents or a "live in"not liking their partners child. The child of abusers learns to cope somehow, usually causing behaviors that can only be changed through counseling and medication. Foster homes are not perfect, but at times its best for the child to thrive, learn, and grow by being removed from the home.
I enjoyed reading this book and may read more of this author.
I enjoyed reading this book, which deals with problems of some children. The characters seemed believable and the subject fell into the category of one I am not all that comfortable with. There are many more damaged children in today's society so kept reading the details. One family, and punishment reminded me of a family I know. It's difficult to understand how an adult could harm their own child. I have witnessed many "step" parents or a "live in"not liking their partners child. The child of abusers learns to cope somehow, usually causing behaviors that can only be changed through counseling and medication. Foster homes are not perfect, but at times its best for the child to thrive, learn, and grow by being removed from the home.
I enjoyed reading this book and may read more of this author.
March 11, 2020
I found this lovely story heart-tugging, informative and realistic. A good story teaches the reader something, and The Children of Main Street did this for me. I have scant knowledge of what goes on behind the scenes for those who care for neglected children. This engaging story takes you right into what can be a tug-of war, through the story of a woman personally tied to her work, and emotionally tied by her heartstrings, as she tries to reconcile her marriage with her feelings for a particular young girl, whom she believes was put into her life by God. Christian fiction readers will absolutely love this book, and I believe it has great appeal for all genre readers. Well done to the author. I enjoyed this read!
February 27, 2023
I'm afraid I made a mistake buying this book, since I didn't realise it was a Christian novel. Unfortunately, I only read the first chapter and I'm giving three stars out of politeness.
Even so, I had problems with the main character, Katie, who was a mental health specialist. She seems to mention God in nearly every sentence she speaks to her clients and even offers to pray with one. This made me cringe, as I considered it totally inappropriate and unprofessional behaviour. Had Katie been a vicar or a preacher, then I think I could have continued the story. I love the Father Brown series on TV, so I do enjoy stories with a religious theme. But they must be in context.
I hope three stars compensates.
Even so, I had problems with the main character, Katie, who was a mental health specialist. She seems to mention God in nearly every sentence she speaks to her clients and even offers to pray with one. This made me cringe, as I considered it totally inappropriate and unprofessional behaviour. Had Katie been a vicar or a preacher, then I think I could have continued the story. I love the Father Brown series on TV, so I do enjoy stories with a religious theme. But they must be in context.
I hope three stars compensates.
March 25, 2019
Hard to believe that parents can be so heartless toward their own children! This book had me at the start. Being that Catherine is a counselor, she has seen it all. She would love to be a mom but can't have kids of her own. The case of Bailey pulls at her heart. Watching her mom murdered, Bailey's father and current wife, won't take Bailey into their home. The girl needs a mother and someone to take her. Catherine takes her in. Their relationship grows and Catherine get deeper into her cases. When Bailey goes back to her dad and stepmom, Catherine spins into a deep depression. How will she go on? I am eager to read more of this author.
December 31, 2018
Psychotherapist Katie Collier hadn't planned on working with kids, but it always seems to turn out that way. Meanwhile, she and her husband grieve her infertility. When Katie begins letting some of the most broken, at-risk children stay in their home, her marriage begins to crumble. While I had questions about the ethical implications of some of Katie's practices, I enjoyed the story.
January 6, 2019
The Child Taker
Enjoyed the book. Felt sad for this character she lost her husband and lost the chance of having a baby. With luck came one of her clients did not want her stepdaughter so she took her it ended happily now she had her husband back and she had her child who she adopted.
Enjoyed the book. Felt sad for this character she lost her husband and lost the chance of having a baby. With luck came one of her clients did not want her stepdaughter so she took her it ended happily now she had her husband back and she had her child who she adopted.
January 9, 2019
Great Read
I loved this book. As someone that has worked with abused and neglected children this story got my attention. The story rings true and is as sad as real life can be but it was also as good as real life can be. Would recommend this book for anyone that would enjoy a good and if they don't mind being taken a little out of their comfort zone.
I loved this book. As someone that has worked with abused and neglected children this story got my attention. The story rings true and is as sad as real life can be but it was also as good as real life can be. Would recommend this book for anyone that would enjoy a good and if they don't mind being taken a little out of their comfort zone.
June 3, 2020
I read this book in December 2018. I also reviewed it in 2020 These type books are sad but the stories are true in all walks of life. It's been a long time since I had read this book. There are many books about children in orphanage.
Some of the children were adopted by other families. Many children were misplaced during World War II.
Some of the children were adopted by other families. Many children were misplaced during World War II.
December 28, 2018
Katie and her husband could not have children. Katie owned a therapy practice on Main Street where parents come with problems with kids. Katie is very religious. You will see how Katie treats these kids with love and passion. 5*
March 25, 2019
Children To Break Your Heart
Marilyn Howton Marriott knows how to grab and hold a reader. I couldn't wait to finish this book and I didn't want it to come to the end! I was so absorbed in this story, the people, and especially the children.
Marilyn Howton Marriott knows how to grab and hold a reader. I couldn't wait to finish this book and I didn't want it to come to the end! I was so absorbed in this story, the people, and especially the children.
April 3, 2019
I totally enjoyed this book, the author really draws you into the life of the characters. Some of them you wanted to take a baseball bat and wake them up, some of them you wanted to grab in your arms and tell them everything will be alright.
April 28, 2019
Chilled of Main Street
This novel was so impactful on my emotions. Hurting children, a psychologist who cares almost too much, God's grace and a marriage cracking but built back stronger. Definitely worth the read.
This novel was so impactful on my emotions. Hurting children, a psychologist who cares almost too much, God's grace and a marriage cracking but built back stronger. Definitely worth the read.
May 7, 2019
Children, children
Story of psychologist and some of the clients she gets involved with. Some of the children are abused, abandoned, or have seen some horrible things. I would recommend
Story of psychologist and some of the clients she gets involved with. Some of the children are abused, abandoned, or have seen some horrible things. I would recommend
June 22, 2019
Very Revealing
Being one who has always been intrigued by the social sciences, this book is very educational from the observer’s point of view.
And personal from the Christian’s point of view.
Many opportunities for self reflection, mercy and grace.
Well done.
Being one who has always been intrigued by the social sciences, this book is very educational from the observer’s point of view.
And personal from the Christian’s point of view.
Many opportunities for self reflection, mercy and grace.
Well done.
October 20, 2019
This story is about a woman, her patients and her marriage. There are highs and lows, some low enough to make me cry. It was a very different genre for me, a horror fan, but I enjoyed it and would recommend it to friends and family.
April 10, 2020
A new author for me - wonderful book!
I normally don’t prefer books written in the first person! But this writer had me hooked in the first chapter! My heart hurts and is lightened with every page. I can’t wait for the next book and hope it comes out soon!
I normally don’t prefer books written in the first person! But this writer had me hooked in the first chapter! My heart hurts and is lightened with every page. I can’t wait for the next book and hope it comes out soon!
May 15, 2020
I was pulled into this from the beginning
I was pulled into this book from the very beginning! A Christian therapist who counsels children and a husband who separates from her because he feels as though she has forgotten him. This is a terrific read!
I was pulled into this book from the very beginning! A Christian therapist who counsels children and a husband who separates from her because he feels as though she has forgotten him. This is a terrific read!
October 6, 2018
Amazing. Heartbreaking and real.
November 10, 2018
Avery entertaining, sad, then happy story. Amazing!
November 21, 2018
The saddest book I have read in my life but also the most life affirming!
Well written story line filled with blessings
Well written story line filled with blessings
December 30, 2018
Couldn't put it down! My heart broke for the young lives who knew so much hurt. Loved the compassion shown by the doctor. Well done!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews