For Mercie's Sake

The Mercie #1

by Sharon Srock (editor)

A victim of rape, sixteen year old Scottlyn Rich is disowned by her family when she refuses to abort the child she carries. Determined to raise her baby, she has no idea how to handle the obstacles ahead, she only knows that giving her daughter, Mercie, a chance to live is the most important thing she'll ever do.

Widowed school teacher Diana Kensington lost everything she held dear the day her husband’s plane fell out of the sky. Four hundred and thirty nine days later she still has no answer to her daily prayer. “What now, God?”

Can trust be built between these two lost women? Can they work together to fill the void in each other's lives, for Mercie' s sake?

Genres: Christian Fiction, Fiction, Contemporary, Short Stories, Christian, Novella, Ebooks

67 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 31, 2014

About the author

Small-town Oklahoma and the friendships they produce are embedded in Sharon Srock’s heart. After spending her first fifteen years on the move, living in fourteen homes and attending thirteen schools, she landed in a tiny central Oklahoma community and made it her own. As someone who’s been blessed to be a part of the same hometown church for more than five decades, Sharon writes stories of hope built from her own unique perspective—stories that demonstrate a sisterhood formed not by blood but by heart, where ordinary women are able to do extraordinary things thanks to the friends who surround them and the faith that pulls them through. Sharon still lives in the middle of nowhere, Oklahoma, with her husband and three very large dogs. When she isn’t writing, she loves to read, cook, and travel. One of these days, she’s going to figure out how to do all three at the same time.

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Reviews

[Andrea Cox · Rating 3 out of 5]

The emotions of this story were lovely and realistic. I enjoyed the plot, but it was too condensed. Everything happened much too fast for believability for me.

I liked that stereotypes were bucked. That was a refreshing change. Scottlyn was a wonderful character. She won me over right away, and I rooted for her through every page.

Content: “Man Upstairs” used in reference to God, rape (mentioned but not shown)

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

For Mercie's Sake by Sharon Srock**** e-book

Scottlyn Rich is a 16 year old girl who is pregnant resulting from a rape and disowned by her father.
Now living in a home for unwed pregnant mothers and attending a new school, Scottlyn is attempting to move on to make a life for her and her daughter, Mercie.

Diana Kensington's husband died in a plane crash over a year ago and is still waiting for God to answer her prayer, “what now, God?”. She is a high school teacher at Eden Heights Christian Academy and loved her job before her husband's death. When Scottlyn joins her classroom, Diana is at first shocked and judgmental. But after learning the facts about Scottlyn's circumstances, she is filled with compassion and finds she wants to help her young student in whatever way she can. Her prayer is now how to help this young girl. God speaks to Diana's heart and when she takes a step of faith and follows His leading remarkable things happen. In helping Scottlyn, she ultimately begins to heal from her own grief.

God has a plan for these two women that neither of them even could have guessed at. They learn to lean on each other as well as on God. In this short novella we see redemption, compassion, healing, love, God's leading.

~~I received an e-book copy of this book from BookFunNetwork for my review~~
~~~Review posted on Bookfunnetwork, DeeperShopping, Barnes and Noble and Amazon~~~

[Nana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scottlyn is young girl pregnant as a result of rape, who has been forced from her home by an angry and disagreeable father. Transferred to a different school she becomes acquainted with a teacher, Diana Kensington, suffering her own losses. Diana discovers that God has placed this young girl in her life and heart for a divine purpose. This pregnant teen's dreams for herself and the future of her child have a major impact in her teacher's life and perspective. As God speaks to her through this young girl, Diana's life begins to fill with meaning once again.

Sharon Srock pens a short story of how one person's life can have such a dramatic affect on another. One woman's losses are minimized by the knowledge of what a young girl has suffered. As God moves in the lives of these characters, hope is embraced by both, and a teen-aged girl who has no church background finds Christ. This is a wonderful story of faith and hope in tough times. I recommend you grab a copy and feel the redemption that speaks through this story.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this ebook from the For Readers Only group from Book Fun and author, Sharon Srock, in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.

[Shirley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Scottlyn Rich finds herself in one of the hardest places for a woman to be in. She is pregnant as the result of being raped. Add to that the fact that she is 16 years old, has been kicked out of her home by her father, was deserted by her mother so long ago she doesn’t even remember her, and has been forced to leave the school she attended when the rape happened. Life doesn’t seem to be giving her many breaks.
She is ostracized by her friends and alone other than the other girls and staff at Choose Life Shelter. All because she has chosen to not abort her baby, but to keep her and raise her.
Enter a widowed teacher, Diana Kensington. Diana is still so wrapped up in her grief over her husband’s death in a plane crash a year and a half ago that she is barely functioning. To her surprise God is calling her to step out of herself and help this troubled young girl to first find Christ, then to open herself up to this girl in a way that forces her to again embrace life.
It’s a wonderful story of the blessings that can happen when we open our hearts and minds to the plan that God has for our lives.
This book was given to me by Book Club in exchange for my honest review.

[Robin Hatcher · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5🌟
Audiobook (narrated by Becky Doughty)
A sweet novella with a powerful message. To be honest, I wish this had been a full-length novel as there were depths to be plumbed that couldn't be in the length allotted. It didn't lessen my enjoyment; just made me want more.

Robin’s Ratings
5🌟 = Out of this world. Amazing. Unforgettable. A personal favorite.
4🌟 = Enjoyed/loved it. Couldn’t put it down. Will recommend to others.
3🌟 = Liked it. Glad I read it. Engaging/entertaining/interesting.
2🌟 = The book was okay, but I’ve enjoyed other books so much more.
1🌟 = For whatever reason, I didn’t like it and can’t recommend it.

[Marianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW. This is awesome. I read this story in less than two hours, and was disappointed that it ended. Not in the way that I will not read it again. Just that it was over too soon. It is totally amazing! Phenomenal.  Priceless. From the very first I was undeniably drawn to the young pregnant teenager, Scottlyn and at the same time I identified with Diane. And as I followed the story my heart beat with love and excitement. At this point in my life, being primary caretaker for a loved one, I could not emulate her, but I am challenged to do something...even if it is just having a more open mind to the things Jesus is telling me! If this becomes available in paperback, I'm getting it!! Thanks to the author Sharon Srock and Fred at The Book Club Network for the opportunity to read and review this novella. I received this Ebook free in exchange for a review. A positive critique was not required. The opinions are my own.

[Sarah Vanscoyoc · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great novella!
I generally don’t read novellas. They always seem rushed and too short (I know, that’s the whole point), but I’m happy to say that I really enjoyed Sharon Srock’s, For Mercie’s Sake. It was very well done and didn’t seem contrived. There is also a strong spiritual theme throughout, which I really enjoyed.
For only having 10 short chapters, it wasn’t rushed and I didn’t get the sense that I missed something or that she had skipped over any important details. My only complaint is that I wished there had been an epilogue, since it ended rather suddenly. I also found it strange that Diana kept having somewhat random “thoughts” that were supposed to be from God.
I received this novella through The Book Club Network for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have received no compensation for it. All opinions expressed are solely mine.

[Katrina Epperson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very touching story about grief, teenage pregnancy and rape. This book brings to light some issues that are not discussed, but definitely needs to be. Diana Kensington has been devastated by the loss of her husband a year ago and suddenly is introduced to a young, pregnant woman who is to be her new student. First impressions can form opinions or cloud our judgment about many people and Diana soon learns that sometimes you must put that aside and search and find answers. Scottlyn Rich is a 16 year old who while on a college campus tour learned a lesson in trusting, albeit not a good lesson. Now she is faced with not only a pregnancy, but being abandoned by her family. With no one to turn to she sets out to make the best life possible for both her child and herself. Along the way she discovers a wonderful life and acceptance she never thought to experience through the grace of salvation.
A wonderful story that I would recommend to anyone.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Listening to God
This is a short novella that warms your heart and gently reminds everyone that life is about God’s plan for each of us. It follows the meeting of a high school teacher and an unexpected new student. They each have difficulties in their lives that threaten to crush them. But the young girl shows the teacher how love can prevail and conquer all and the teacher shows the young girl that God has a plan for all of us – we just have to have the courage to listen to Him. The story is well written and keeps you reading without hesitation to see how things might work out. My only negative thought is that I didn’t want the story to end – I need a sequel to follow up on how the two main characters are doing now!
I received this book from bookfun.org in return for my honest review.

[Donna Mcginnis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although this is a novella, a quick and easy read, it packs a powerful and well written story.
Diana is a teacher and grieving widow who feels her life has no meaning. Diana meets Scottlyn as a new student of hers at the Eden Heights Christian School. Scottlyn is only 16 and pregnant by rape. Her father has thrown her out of her home and she is living in a home for unwed mothers. Her world has been turned upside down.
Through tragedy we are reminded that God is in control and has a plan for Diana and Scottlyn and for each of us. Also a reminder that we should listen when we hear God's voice and be obedient.
I recommend you read this story and see how God works in the lives of Diana and Scottlyn. A beautiful ending.

I received this book from bookfun.org for my honest opinion and review.

[Sharee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED For Mercies Sake. It is a sweet story of two broken hearts coming together for the sake of another. It’s also a perfect demonstration of James 2:15-16 “If a brother or sister is poorly clad and lacks food for each day,16 And one of you says to him, Good-bye! Keep [yourself] warm and well fed, without giving him the necessities for the body, what good does that do?” I am hoping this is the first in a series of books because I absolutely loved the characters. I also appreciated the way Ms. Srock tells the story in a complete way without an overabundance of unnecessary words. It was short and sweet and wonderful! A marvelous read!
I received a copy of this book from the Book Club Network in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Kelsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book from bookfun.org in return for my honest opinion. For Mercie’s Sake is a novella about a young woman named Scottlyn who is raped and becomes pregnant. When her father disowns her because she will neither abort the baby of give her up for adoption, Scottlyn has to fend for herself. This brings her to Eden Heights Christian Academy, where they have accepted her despite her circumstances and allowed her to finish high school. Diana Kensington is a history teacher at the academy with her own set of problems. Can Diana listen to the voice of God, put aside her own grief and show Scottlyn the way to the Lord? It is a touching reminder to not judge by appearances and that blood does not always define family.

[ChrisGA · Rating 5 out of 5]

God is good and He is in control. If we would just listen to that still, small voice, we might be surprised at how He has worked all things together for the greatest benefit of all involved. This short novella is a very sweet and touching story of two women, both hurting, who are drawn together by God to bring comfort to both of them and fulfill their greatest needs. A teenager pregnant through rape and a lonely, childless widow become the answer to each other's situation. I was especially touched by the way those in the church and the Christian school gave the young teen both acceptance and love. They truly acted as we would hope all Christians would.

I received this novella through The Book Club Network in exchange for an honest review.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

For Mercie's Sake is a great novella which shows how through determination and God's love we are all called to help one another. Diana Kensington and Scottlyn Rich are both going through trials in life. Diana is trying to walk through the grief of losing her husband while Scottlyn is trying to finish school and start life despite an unplanned pregnancy at 16. Not sure what the future holds, both women are brought together through unusual circumstances.

This novella shows that through love and acceptance we can all be of help to one another in some way. Bringing both laughter and tears, this book is a great read!! I received this book through bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review.

[Anne Rightler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thought provoking novella that touches on several issues, i.e. loss of a spouse, rape, and abortion. Good reminder that God works through His children to provide care to those in need. Srock has given her readers two strong characters, a determined young teen pregnant as a result of rape and a grieving widow who hears and obeys the urgings of her caring Heavenly Father. For Mercie's Sake is a reminder that God's richest mercy is new every morning and a challenge to be open to His work in our lives.
I received a copy of this book from The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) in exchange for my honest review.
This review has been posted on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, DeeperShopping, and Goodreads.

[Anne Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book warmed my heart with a subject near and dear to my heart--the right of a baby to be born instead of aborted. Sharon is a wonderful writer, and this book is woven into such a beautiful story.

Diana Kensington, a teacher at a Christian school, measures her life by the number of days it's been since her husband had been killed in a plane crash. On the other hand, Scottlyn Rich, 16-year-old rape victim, measures hers by the number of months after her baby is born that she'll have a roof over her head. When God brings them together, neither of them has an inkling how far He will take them.

PS--The ebook is presently FREE at Barnes and Noble and only 99 Cents at Amazon.

[Meagan Myhren-Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

For Mercie's Sake
By Sharon Srock

Diana Kensington and Scottlyn Rich are both hurting. What these two have lost is family - Diana can't past the death of her husband and Scottlyn is trapped by an attack and her father's anger.

For Mercie's Sake has a slight resemblance to Francine Rivers's The Atonement Child in that she is being pressured by her family to get rid of her child.

I like that by looking beyond her own problems and losses Diana is able to start healing. This is an excellent story that does not take a long time to read.

I was provided a copy of this book by the author and BookFun.org in exchange for my honest review.

[Billie Conrad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stop everything and read this story! I just finished reading For Mercie’s Sake by Sharon Srock. This is an excellent, inspirational story about women’s relationships. The characters are well developed and realistic. I enjoyed seeing both of the main characters grow spiritually. The story deals with a lot of issues and handles them very tastefully. I would have loved for this to have been a full length novel. This is my first read by Sharon Srock and I will be looking for more. I received a copy of this book from the author by way of The Book Club Network (bookfun.org).

[Carrie Gould · Rating 5 out of 5]

For Mercie's SakeI really enjoyed reading this novella. I was pleasantly surprised at the depth of emotion I felt as I read this book. This is a story of a young girl that made hard choices following tragic circumstances. It is a story of faith, restoration, hope, and following God's gentle nudging.
I received a free copy of this novella from the author and The Book Club Network in exchange for this honest review. The thoughts here are my own.

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a delightful short story about listening to that quiet voice of God when you come across someone in need. I was encouraged by Scottlyn and her determination to be the kind of mother to her child that she never experienced herself. I was struck by the compassion Diana had in the midst of recent devastation. And I marveled at how God brought the two women together for healing and restoration. See my full review at http://bit.ly/1kEGPaP.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully written novella. I initially started reading a couple of weeks ago and then paused in my reading. I am glad I came back to it.

I loved the main character's sense of strength in the face of adversity. I love how Srock brought together all the elements to show how Faith in God and the peace of Jesus really does translate into a life well lived.

We all need to listen to that still small voice that whispers in our ears...A good quick read!

[Diane Higgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a cute short story! Diana is a high school teacher. Scottlyn is an unwed mother. The two of these end up crossing paths and it is exciting to see how much they help each other.

This book was a very easy short read. I read it in one night! I will definitely be reading more books by Sharon Srock. She's a very talented author. I would recommend this book to everyone!

I received this book from bookfun for my honest opnion.

[Lori Weller · Rating 5 out of 5]

For Mercies Sake is a wonderful novella. It involves a teen pregnant at 16. And a high school teacher who is a widow. They are brought together in the classroom. There is alot of hope, forgiveness, and faith presented. It has a great ending! I can't wait to read the next one in the Women of Valley View.
I recieved this book from the Book Club Network in exchange for a honest review.

[D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply Amazing! This story proves that God does answer prayer; it may not be in the way we expect or hope for, but it is always in His wonderful timing. Even though this was a short story it pack a powerful punch full of hope, joy and happiness. I can't wait to read other book by this author.

I receive a free copy of this book courtesy of The Book Club Network for my honest review.

[Melba · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading this book, and it was wonderful. I cried so much - some sad tears, some happy ones & others rejoicing ones. I plan on reading Sharon's other books when I can get them, and thanks so much for this wonderfully blessed & inspiring story. It is nice to read stories with happy endings, and those that are filled with faith & the Lord are even more special.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was one of the best short stories / novella that I have ever read.

It gave me goosebumps reading how amazing God was and how faithful Diana was in listing to God regarding Scottlyn.

Can't wait to find something else by Sharon.

[Anita · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book brought tears to my eyes. A great short-story about loss, heartbreak, fear, but mostly about God’s love. Truly a great story.

I received this book from bookfun.org for my honest opinion.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the novella. I want to know more about the two main charActers. It was a good story with an excellent Biblical teaching.

[Anita · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a pregnant high school student enters teacher Diana Kensington's classroom, she meets with instant reproach. Her father, who threw her out of his house, made the same judgement, but she is determined to continue her education. When the teacher learns she was raped, she apologizes and determines to help her.
Diana lost her husband a few year before, but cannot advance from her overwhelming grief. When she decides to let Scottlyn move in with her, and gives her a car, she finds her grief diminishing.
Sharon Srock's treatment of unwed pregnancy and abortion features forgiveness, non-judgement and generosity, in the face of fear, depression and hopelessness. She honors God for His requirement to love one another.

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this short, sweet novella - can be easily read in one or two sittings, and a great background for the Baby Mercie's series. You will be intrigued by the relationship between Diana and Scottlyn.

I like the clean, thoughtful, relatable writings of Sharon Srock, and I needed something light and easy, yet well done and family related to rest my brain. This is a lovely story and I look forward to reading the rest of the series. I had shelved this book in 2022, but then got side-tracked on a few heavy ARCS, so was very happy to start this.

Thanks, Sharon Srock, for a lovely read, and a good lead-in for the next book.