What do you think?
Rate this book
Shades of Light #3
Feathers of Hope
"We fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen." (2 Corinthians 4:18) In a season of loss and change, Wren Crawford and her great-aunt, Katherine Rhodes, share the journey as companions in sorrow and hope. As Katherine prepares to retire as the director of the New Hope Retreat Center, she faces both personal and professional challenges―especially after the arrival of the board's candidate to replace her. Not only must she confront more unresolved grief from her past, but she's invited to embrace painful and unsettling insights about her own blind spots. How might disruption become a gift that opens the way to new growth? Wren's world is shifting and expanding as she presses forward in recovery from a period of deep depression. Still processing open questions around the death of her best friend, Casey, Wren stewards her grief by offering compassionate care to the residents of the nursing home where she now works. But the shedding of her old life is exhausting―especially as she doesn't yet see what new life will emerge. How might art continue to provide a pathway for deepening her awareness of God's presence with her? In this sequel to Shades of Light and Remember Me, fans of the Sensible Shoes series will not only be able to attend Katherine's final retreat sessions at New Hope but also encounter old and new friends along the way. Also available: Feathers of Hope Study Guide
368 pages, Paperback
Published April 1, 2022
37 people are currently reading
2973 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Garlough Brown
23 books546 followersSharon Garlough Brown (MDiv, Princeton Theological Seminary) is a spiritual director, retreat leader, and author. Her book "Sensible Shoes" was named one of television personality Kathie Lee Gifford's "favorite things" in March 2013, and her book "An Extra Mile" won Christianity Today's Fiction Book of the Year for 2019. She and her husband Jack have served congregations in Scotland, Oklahoma, England, and West Michigan, where they co-pastored a congregation for many years. They now direct Abiding Way Ministries, offering spiritual formation retreats and resources (abidingwaylife.com). Her latest book, "Feathers of Hope" (third in the Shades of Light series) released in April 2022.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
December 25, 2023
4.5 🌟
I have been putting off reading this for a while because it is one of the last books written by Sharon Brown that I haven’t read yet and I don’t want them to come to an end 😭 but if it has to end some time I guess this beautiful work of Biblical fiction seems right to finish on Christ’s Day. ✝️💜🌟
This is the sequel to Shades of light, which I absolutely adored! Furthermore, it’s always a treat coming back to familiar characters that you connected with - Wren, in my case. We also meet some of our friends from the Sensible Shoes series, of which I also loved greatly. And in this instalment we attend Katherine’s final New Hope retreat session.
We begin this book with an important message:
“We fix our eye not on what is seen, but on what is unseen.” 2 Corinthians 4:18
And continue on a season of change for Wren and her great-aunt Katherine (both of whom we have met before). This book is jam packed but the overriding theme is coming out of the darkness and into the light…
The last section of the book is summarised perfectly through Isaiah 42:16
“ I will turn the darkness before them into light,
The rough places into level ground,
These are the things I will do,
And I will not forsake them.”
Although this novel was not my favourite of Sharon’s, it was still an excellent read and I will certainly miss reading her novels as Sharon so smoothly deals with the topic of mental health and leading a Christian life - some say it is not possible; I’m here with living proof to say it is wholeheartedly possible. I am so thankfully for Sharon sharing her wisdom around this topic throughout her novels.
I will patiently await any further novels she writes….
I have been putting off reading this for a while because it is one of the last books written by Sharon Brown that I haven’t read yet and I don’t want them to come to an end 😭 but if it has to end some time I guess this beautiful work of Biblical fiction seems right to finish on Christ’s Day. ✝️💜🌟
This is the sequel to Shades of light, which I absolutely adored! Furthermore, it’s always a treat coming back to familiar characters that you connected with - Wren, in my case. We also meet some of our friends from the Sensible Shoes series, of which I also loved greatly. And in this instalment we attend Katherine’s final New Hope retreat session.
We begin this book with an important message:
“We fix our eye not on what is seen, but on what is unseen.” 2 Corinthians 4:18
And continue on a season of change for Wren and her great-aunt Katherine (both of whom we have met before). This book is jam packed but the overriding theme is coming out of the darkness and into the light…
The last section of the book is summarised perfectly through Isaiah 42:16
“ I will turn the darkness before them into light,
The rough places into level ground,
These are the things I will do,
And I will not forsake them.”
Although this novel was not my favourite of Sharon’s, it was still an excellent read and I will certainly miss reading her novels as Sharon so smoothly deals with the topic of mental health and leading a Christian life - some say it is not possible; I’m here with living proof to say it is wholeheartedly possible. I am so thankfully for Sharon sharing her wisdom around this topic throughout her novels.
I will patiently await any further novels she writes….
February 17, 2022
Feathers of Hope is the latest novel by the author of the Sensible Shoes series, which I loved. Though this book is a separate novel, it does follow up on some of the characters from the Sensible Shows club.
The main characters in Feathers of Hope are Katherine, who is retiring from her position as spiritual director at the New Hope Retreat Center, and her great-niece Wren. Both of them are on journeys filled with growing pains, complicated relationships, and hope.
While I appreciate that Katherine’s job naturally lends itself to this novel being introspective, the navel-gazing was just overdone in my opinion. I know very few people who are as self-aware as every character in this novel seemed to be. The result was a loss in authenticity in the story. That, combined with an overall dragging in the storyline is why I am rating it 3 stars.
Sharon Garlough Brown remains a go-to author for me, but sadly this one just wasn’t my favorite.
Thank you to Netgalley and IVP Press for the advanced review copy. Feathers of Hope releases on April 19, 2022.
The main characters in Feathers of Hope are Katherine, who is retiring from her position as spiritual director at the New Hope Retreat Center, and her great-niece Wren. Both of them are on journeys filled with growing pains, complicated relationships, and hope.
While I appreciate that Katherine’s job naturally lends itself to this novel being introspective, the navel-gazing was just overdone in my opinion. I know very few people who are as self-aware as every character in this novel seemed to be. The result was a loss in authenticity in the story. That, combined with an overall dragging in the storyline is why I am rating it 3 stars.
Sharon Garlough Brown remains a go-to author for me, but sadly this one just wasn’t my favorite.
Thank you to Netgalley and IVP Press for the advanced review copy. Feathers of Hope releases on April 19, 2022.
March 28, 2022
As I loved watching and learning with the characters in the Sensible Shoes series, so I love watching and learning with Wren and Katherine in Shades of Light, Remember Me, and now Feathers of Hope.
Katherine feels like a mentor or an older friend who lets me see her heart and soul as she walks a path far ahead of me. I'm thankful for her wisdom and humility.
I'm thankful, too, for Sharon's grace in some new themes in Feathers of Hope. In her other books, she's shown that she handles hard topics with grace and gentleness, but without fear, and does so with a new theme or two in this book that I'm encouraged and challenged by.
Katherine feels like a mentor or an older friend who lets me see her heart and soul as she walks a path far ahead of me. I'm thankful for her wisdom and humility.
I'm thankful, too, for Sharon's grace in some new themes in Feathers of Hope. In her other books, she's shown that she handles hard topics with grace and gentleness, but without fear, and does so with a new theme or two in this book that I'm encouraged and challenged by.
July 21, 2022
In Feathers of Hope, Sharon Garlough Brown brilliantly portrays mental illness in a gentle and heartbreaking way as young Wren continues on her path toward healing from deep depression. As one who has struggled with depression, I teared up at times, as if I were reading about myself and my responses.
We also glimpse the bare humanity of Wren’s great aunt and housemate, Katherine Rhodes, as she navigates her impending retirement from directing the New Hope Retreat Center. In the Sensible Shoes series, Katherine often seemed larger than life, a Christ figure. Here, we give a sigh of relief. Yes, her life has been greatly used by the Lord, but she still has struggles. Yes, the sorrow and rejection she's known have been healed in one way, but they can still be triggered.
Feathers of Hope tells a story of shedding the old to bring forth the new, giving hope to all of us who are confronted with our deep humanity and sinfulness after days or decades of our own Sacred Journey. A poignant, deeply personal, and relevant story for such a time as this.
We also glimpse the bare humanity of Wren’s great aunt and housemate, Katherine Rhodes, as she navigates her impending retirement from directing the New Hope Retreat Center. In the Sensible Shoes series, Katherine often seemed larger than life, a Christ figure. Here, we give a sigh of relief. Yes, her life has been greatly used by the Lord, but she still has struggles. Yes, the sorrow and rejection she's known have been healed in one way, but they can still be triggered.
Feathers of Hope tells a story of shedding the old to bring forth the new, giving hope to all of us who are confronted with our deep humanity and sinfulness after days or decades of our own Sacred Journey. A poignant, deeply personal, and relevant story for such a time as this.
April 20, 2022
Once I started reading Feathers of Hope there was no stopping. As soon as I finished one chapter I was drawn right into the next. This is the type of book that is a gift you give yourself and then want to share with everyone around you! And then go back to re-read! (Or listen to! I've thoroughly enjoyed the audiobook, too!)
Feathers of Hope is a delightful story that's also soul nourishing and thought provoking. I often find portions of the story returning to mind to ponder, influencing my responses to current events as well as circumstances in my own life.
Not once did I feel preached at or like a message was artificially imposed, yet topics as diverse as mental health, forgiveness, navigating transitions, and racial reconciliation along with insights into Vincent Van Gogh's paintings are beautifully woven into the fabric of this story!
Sharon and her son David, who helped write this, tell a tight story involving characters from her previous novels, especially Shades of Light and Remember Me. I personally prefer to read books in sequence but I believe this book can be enjoyed even if you haven't read the earlier books.
The only warning I would add: don't start reading at night if you have to be alert at work the next day! Yes, I lost sleep! And it was so worth it!
Feathers of Hope is a delightful story that's also soul nourishing and thought provoking. I often find portions of the story returning to mind to ponder, influencing my responses to current events as well as circumstances in my own life.
Not once did I feel preached at or like a message was artificially imposed, yet topics as diverse as mental health, forgiveness, navigating transitions, and racial reconciliation along with insights into Vincent Van Gogh's paintings are beautifully woven into the fabric of this story!
Sharon and her son David, who helped write this, tell a tight story involving characters from her previous novels, especially Shades of Light and Remember Me. I personally prefer to read books in sequence but I believe this book can be enjoyed even if you haven't read the earlier books.
The only warning I would add: don't start reading at night if you have to be alert at work the next day! Yes, I lost sleep! And it was so worth it!
April 17, 2022
Having read both the Sensible Shoes series and the other two books in the Shades of Light series, I was really excited for this read. And for the most part, it lived up to my expectations.
(The Amazon page for this book notes that the Shades of Light series can be read in any order; I'd personally recommend reading in order, though one would not have to read the Sensible Shoes series first. I personally got more out of it for doing so, but don't let it stop you from picking up the read!)
Brown, as ever, deals with some heavy topics within _Feathers of Hope_: race, racial justice, depression, and mental health, in particular. By and large I felt she dealt with each well; I will note a standalone reference to "becoming [one's] best self" (which, I'll admit, is almost guaranteed to make me snarf at least a little bit). And race/racial justice...I'm not even 100% sure what to write yet, just within an hour of finishing this read. I liked how she dealt with it, but I also didn't. And with some of the other books I've seen published by IVP lately, I would just say...I'm not positive I come to all of the same conclusions as those in the book do. I did appreciate the recommended resources at the end, and am interested in reading more; while I have a few concerns with some and the potential for critical race theory, I have not (yet) done my homework on that front and cannot make a definitive statement.
I'd love for the conversation to continue to flow both directions, with Christ ever at the center--the most important thing being His glory, not our own.
But back to _Feathers of Light_.
This story wraps up Katherine Rhodes' era, as it were--one that began in _Sensible Shoes_. It's absolutely a fitting ending, and I'll be curious where Brown goes next--exploring any of the other characters, or a new direction. I loved that some (more!) characters from _Sensible Shoes_ appeared, and wished Charissa had gotten more than a passing mention. But, there's only so much of the word count to go around. :)
A thought-provoking read, as ever, and one that will prompt further study in the Word, prayer, and introspection.
3.5 stars, rounded up to 4.
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
(The Amazon page for this book notes that the Shades of Light series can be read in any order; I'd personally recommend reading in order, though one would not have to read the Sensible Shoes series first. I personally got more out of it for doing so, but don't let it stop you from picking up the read!)
Brown, as ever, deals with some heavy topics within _Feathers of Hope_: race, racial justice, depression, and mental health, in particular. By and large I felt she dealt with each well; I will note a standalone reference to "becoming [one's] best self" (which, I'll admit, is almost guaranteed to make me snarf at least a little bit). And race/racial justice...I'm not even 100% sure what to write yet, just within an hour of finishing this read. I liked how she dealt with it, but I also didn't. And with some of the other books I've seen published by IVP lately, I would just say...I'm not positive I come to all of the same conclusions as those in the book do. I did appreciate the recommended resources at the end, and am interested in reading more; while I have a few concerns with some and the potential for critical race theory, I have not (yet) done my homework on that front and cannot make a definitive statement.
I'd love for the conversation to continue to flow both directions, with Christ ever at the center--the most important thing being His glory, not our own.
But back to _Feathers of Light_.
This story wraps up Katherine Rhodes' era, as it were--one that began in _Sensible Shoes_. It's absolutely a fitting ending, and I'll be curious where Brown goes next--exploring any of the other characters, or a new direction. I loved that some (more!) characters from _Sensible Shoes_ appeared, and wished Charissa had gotten more than a passing mention. But, there's only so much of the word count to go around. :)
A thought-provoking read, as ever, and one that will prompt further study in the Word, prayer, and introspection.
3.5 stars, rounded up to 4.
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
February 23, 2022
Hope. This world needs hope more than ever. Not only is the world we live in constantly changing, but we too are also changing. As we age, our perspectives, our physical abilities, and our perceptions of our needs will be strangely different. One can either resist the change for as long as possible or embrace change as soon as one can. The former reclines in fear while the latter nudges forward in hope. What better way to describe these transitions through a novel that spells out the mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of change. Centering around the lives of three women, this book offers readers many insights into life transitions, losses, and love. Like birds that molt gradually, eventually, one has to face up to a "dramatic shedding of the old." Recognizing how many people are creatures of habit and largely resistant to change, sometimes, we just need to learn to let go and let God, as the popular saying goes. Katherine Rhodes (aka Kit) has been serving as spiritual director of "New Hope Retreat Center." She has helped many people through many spiritual retreats, giving wise guidance as well as spiritual direction. As she prepares to transition to retirement, she makes a bold request for the board to look for a replacement with a dramatically different skill set in order to keep up with the times. This might seem easy to say but to surrender the comfort zones of one's past successes to another is another challenge altogether. Katherine was bold to ask for an "upgrade" from what she could offer. The board managed to find a promising candidate who checked all the boxes. Whether it checks Katherine's insecurities remains to be seen. Even as she prepares to do her last retreat, she has to deal with requests for more retreats by her.
Then, there is Wren Crawford, Katherine's great-niece who offers caregiving to residents of a nursing home at Willow Springs. For all the good and kind deeds she did for the residents, she has to deal with terrible accusations by others over the "irreparable harm" to her best friend Casey's relationship with Brooke, and her subsequent grief over Casey's death. The author masterfully helps us enter into Wren's world and how she deals with the many emotional challenges of losing a best friend. The third woman in the novel is Sarah Kersten, daughter of Katherine. Like her mother, she is tenacious and strong-willed. The author skillfully uses their relationship to explore the contours of love as described in 1 Corinthians 13, the great chapter on love.
Despite the title of the book, this novel is essentially a narrative of faith, hope, and love. Faith in dealing with transitions; hope in knowing that the next phase in life would be better; and love in the entire process of change. Transitions involve a willingness to change, and change requires the willingness to participate in the transitional process. There are many moments with which readers can identify. What does it mean to step down from a long-held position? How do we deal with retirement? How do we nurture someone to take over our role? How do we manage our relationships and our mental health? How do we deal with misunderstandings? What about recovery from depression? Brown does not shy away from writing with a faith perspective. Many of the characters in the novel are Christians. Believers would be familiar with many biblical themes in the book. Themes such as biblical stewardship, prayer, pain, suffering, hope, love, redemption, and especially spiritual direction. No matter what stage of life we are in, I am sure this book would resonate with our own life transitions.
This is the first Sharon Garlough Brown book that I've read, and it certainly will not be the last.
Rating: 4.25 stars of 5.
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of InterVarsity Press and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
Then, there is Wren Crawford, Katherine's great-niece who offers caregiving to residents of a nursing home at Willow Springs. For all the good and kind deeds she did for the residents, she has to deal with terrible accusations by others over the "irreparable harm" to her best friend Casey's relationship with Brooke, and her subsequent grief over Casey's death. The author masterfully helps us enter into Wren's world and how she deals with the many emotional challenges of losing a best friend. The third woman in the novel is Sarah Kersten, daughter of Katherine. Like her mother, she is tenacious and strong-willed. The author skillfully uses their relationship to explore the contours of love as described in 1 Corinthians 13, the great chapter on love.
Despite the title of the book, this novel is essentially a narrative of faith, hope, and love. Faith in dealing with transitions; hope in knowing that the next phase in life would be better; and love in the entire process of change. Transitions involve a willingness to change, and change requires the willingness to participate in the transitional process. There are many moments with which readers can identify. What does it mean to step down from a long-held position? How do we deal with retirement? How do we nurture someone to take over our role? How do we manage our relationships and our mental health? How do we deal with misunderstandings? What about recovery from depression? Brown does not shy away from writing with a faith perspective. Many of the characters in the novel are Christians. Believers would be familiar with many biblical themes in the book. Themes such as biblical stewardship, prayer, pain, suffering, hope, love, redemption, and especially spiritual direction. No matter what stage of life we are in, I am sure this book would resonate with our own life transitions.
This is the first Sharon Garlough Brown book that I've read, and it certainly will not be the last.
Rating: 4.25 stars of 5.
conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of InterVarsity Press and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
March 13, 2022
Let me first say this book is not for everyone. It is not a light read. It delves into what it is like to live with depression. It is also the sequel to Shades of Light, where we first meet Wren.
Once again Brown returns to follow Wren through her journey of depression. As she works to move forward and understand what way she can best not only live life, but a life filled with God and his love for her.
This might not be a book for some of struggling with depression, even though it is filled with encouragement, it is for someone looking to help a loved one who is struggling. It helps you understand the work it is the function some days and how well meaning people can even cause more harm with a “just cheer up” attitude.
Emotionally gripping, Feathers of Hope shines a mirror on your life to see things about yourself you just might not have noticed before.
My ARC copy is underlined, dog eared and well loved. Enjoy and be prepared to walk away from it a different person.
Once again Brown returns to follow Wren through her journey of depression. As she works to move forward and understand what way she can best not only live life, but a life filled with God and his love for her.
This might not be a book for some of struggling with depression, even though it is filled with encouragement, it is for someone looking to help a loved one who is struggling. It helps you understand the work it is the function some days and how well meaning people can even cause more harm with a “just cheer up” attitude.
Emotionally gripping, Feathers of Hope shines a mirror on your life to see things about yourself you just might not have noticed before.
My ARC copy is underlined, dog eared and well loved. Enjoy and be prepared to walk away from it a different person.
August 11, 2022
Please do not rush through this book. Brew some of your favorite tea and slowly read this book, allowing yourself to absorb the words and thoughts. This book gave me so much to ponder. At times I was challenged and other times I was calmed, comforted and guided. This book encouraged me on my own walk with Christ and it could not have been a more timely read.
I found myself drawn to the passages about being a faithful steward. Our experiences in suffering and sorrow are often what prepare us to be good stewards of comfort and love. As the main characters were being encouraged to be faithful stewards of their own experiences, so was I.
I found the discussions about investigating the reasons for anger to be very soul searching. I also found some profound thoughts on forgiveness and I never want to forget them.
I loved the way the characters were true companions to each other, through many life experiences, including the celebratory ones and the sorrowful ones. I loved the many examples of the ministry of presence being practiced. That has become one of my favorite ministries.
I loved how unwanted and even painful changes led to real growth and and beautiful opportunities for the beloved characters of this book. Hope began to arrive on the tiny feathers of growth.
I think my favorite parts in this book were the examples and storylines of restoration and reconciliation. If we follow the road of true forgiveness, it will lead us to restoration and reconciliation. And that, is a most beautiful thing!
I loved and needed to spend time with the beloved characters from this book series. Many of the characters are deep thinkers and that encouraged and inspired me to do some deep thinking of my own. So much good stuff in this beautiful book. Read it and be blessed.
I found myself drawn to the passages about being a faithful steward. Our experiences in suffering and sorrow are often what prepare us to be good stewards of comfort and love. As the main characters were being encouraged to be faithful stewards of their own experiences, so was I.
I found the discussions about investigating the reasons for anger to be very soul searching. I also found some profound thoughts on forgiveness and I never want to forget them.
I loved the way the characters were true companions to each other, through many life experiences, including the celebratory ones and the sorrowful ones. I loved the many examples of the ministry of presence being practiced. That has become one of my favorite ministries.
I loved how unwanted and even painful changes led to real growth and and beautiful opportunities for the beloved characters of this book. Hope began to arrive on the tiny feathers of growth.
I think my favorite parts in this book were the examples and storylines of restoration and reconciliation. If we follow the road of true forgiveness, it will lead us to restoration and reconciliation. And that, is a most beautiful thing!
I loved and needed to spend time with the beloved characters from this book series. Many of the characters are deep thinkers and that encouraged and inspired me to do some deep thinking of my own. So much good stuff in this beautiful book. Read it and be blessed.
April 19, 2022
Although this book can be a stand alone, I have read all the previous books and found it easy to understand the characters with that background. This book follows three characters facing life dilemmas. I loved this book, but I also didnt like it at times as it stretched my comfort zone. The issues dealt with in this book are experienced by all either directly or knowledge of someone. Issues like depression, resentment, retirement, forgiveness and justice. Brown does not gloss over these issues but requires the reader to stretch and question. I love the way the author incorporates challenges in her fiction. I love reading fiction and at times struggle with nonfiction but Brown's book meld those together beautifully. This book is not a quick or easy read but is a much needed read.
January 19, 2025
Het boek ‘Feathers of Hope’ bevat waardevolle lessen over het geloof & hoe liefdevol en geduldig om te gaan met anderen (vooral als je hun acties of denkwijzen niet begrijpt), maar laat ook zien hoe rouw langzamerhand omgezet wordt tot hoop. Al met al een mooi einde van de driedelige serie Shades of Light !
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2022
Sharon Garlough Brown has become one of my favorite fiction authors. Even though the characters and storylines are fiction, she inserts such wise, deep, biblical truths within the pages of her books. My huge takeaway from this work was regarding forgiveness. If we believe God has forgiven us but won’t forgive ourselves we believe ourselves to be bigger than God. It is a manifestation of our pride believing our standards are higher than God’s. Wow!
February 27, 2025
Wonderful story that just makes your heart happy! I so enjoyed this book and Brown's writing style.
May 19, 2022
This book was really lovely and heartfelt and I was curious about and invested in the characters right away. It wrestles with difficult, complex issues (racial reconciliation, mental health) in a real, nuanced and believable way. I appreciated how Ms. Brown didn’t shy away from those topics but rather engaged in them in an invitational manner. Her writing is perceptive, faith-filled, gentle and big-hearted. I look forward to reading more of her work!
February 19, 2022
The three main female characters in Feathers of Hope are Wren, who is still coming to terms with her best friend’s death as well as managing her own mental health; her Great Aunt Kit with whom she lives, who is entering a new season of life; and Kit’s daughter, Sarah, who is learning better how to communicate with her stepmother and grow closer to her own mother. All three women face their own challenges in “Feathers of Hope” and as a result deepen their relationship with one another.
Sharon’s book reminded me of the importance of good, healthy friendships in my own life. How we can learn from each other, support each other and hold one another accountable.
I learnt more about forgiveness, God’s grace and his love for each one of us. It was good to read how each of us always has something new to learn about our relationship with our loving Heavenly Father.
There is a beautiful metaphor within the book about a bird moulting which is likened to when we go through difficult times, and then there is new growth, new feathers, called pinfeathers. These are sharp, uncomfortable and painful as they come forth, which means the bird needs more care and love during this season. This metaphor grips Wren and she thinks more about shedding and renewal, loss and hope. She realises that the bird before and after moulting will never be the same because struggles always leave their mark. I too have been gripped by the metaphor and it has given me much to think about.
Sharon’s book reminded me of the importance of good, healthy friendships in my own life. How we can learn from each other, support each other and hold one another accountable.
I learnt more about forgiveness, God’s grace and his love for each one of us. It was good to read how each of us always has something new to learn about our relationship with our loving Heavenly Father.
There is a beautiful metaphor within the book about a bird moulting which is likened to when we go through difficult times, and then there is new growth, new feathers, called pinfeathers. These are sharp, uncomfortable and painful as they come forth, which means the bird needs more care and love during this season. This metaphor grips Wren and she thinks more about shedding and renewal, loss and hope. She realises that the bird before and after moulting will never be the same because struggles always leave their mark. I too have been gripped by the metaphor and it has given me much to think about.
April 4, 2022
Character-driven fiction tops my list of favorite genres. It enables an author to go deep with a theme or a cultural trend as it lands in the life of her characters. Throughout Sharon Garlough Brown’s writing, her characters have dug deep into spiritual formation practices and the accountability that community provides. Katherine Rhodes has served as true north for the other characters, faithfully pointing them toward hope in Christ.
Feathers of Hope chronicles Katherine’s confrontation with an unexpected blind spot in her thinking and in her ministry. As she moves toward retirement from her role as director of New Hope Center, she runs head-on into her dismissive reaction to issues around racial justice. Thanks be to God, we are never too old to experience transformation!
Readers of Shades of Light will welcome an update on Katherine’s niece, Wren Crawford, her healing process, and her efforts to stay in healthy space with her thinking and emotions. Together, aunt and niece draw inspiration from the crimson feathers of a cardinal and live out the discipline of stewarding affliction.
Without fail, teachers find themes from ordinary, down-to-earth living make their way into our teaching, a process that takes Katherine well beyond her comfort zone. Reigning in “the rush to judgment” may well be the prevailing challenge of spiritual formation for those of us approaching Katherine’s age bracket, and she models the discipline in ways that manage to be both convicting and empowering.
It’s a rare work of fiction that has me dog-earing pages so I can revisit them later alongside an open Bible, but I’ve discovered this is the best way to take in Sharon Garlough Brown’s work. Stories with an undercurrent of poured-out wisdom invite me into growth and a more intentional surrender to the work of the Spirit in my life and my ministry.
Many thanks to InterVarsity Press for providing a copy of this book to facilitate my review which is, of course, offered freely and with honesty.
Feathers of Hope chronicles Katherine’s confrontation with an unexpected blind spot in her thinking and in her ministry. As she moves toward retirement from her role as director of New Hope Center, she runs head-on into her dismissive reaction to issues around racial justice. Thanks be to God, we are never too old to experience transformation!
Readers of Shades of Light will welcome an update on Katherine’s niece, Wren Crawford, her healing process, and her efforts to stay in healthy space with her thinking and emotions. Together, aunt and niece draw inspiration from the crimson feathers of a cardinal and live out the discipline of stewarding affliction.
Without fail, teachers find themes from ordinary, down-to-earth living make their way into our teaching, a process that takes Katherine well beyond her comfort zone. Reigning in “the rush to judgment” may well be the prevailing challenge of spiritual formation for those of us approaching Katherine’s age bracket, and she models the discipline in ways that manage to be both convicting and empowering.
It’s a rare work of fiction that has me dog-earing pages so I can revisit them later alongside an open Bible, but I’ve discovered this is the best way to take in Sharon Garlough Brown’s work. Stories with an undercurrent of poured-out wisdom invite me into growth and a more intentional surrender to the work of the Spirit in my life and my ministry.
Many thanks to InterVarsity Press for providing a copy of this book to facilitate my review which is, of course, offered freely and with honesty.
Read
February 11, 2022The cover of the book drew me in at first and the depth of the characters held me and kept me flipping the pages. It wasn’t until the middle of the book where something was a little off for me. I quickly realized that it was that this is the third book in a series and I missed the first two. That said, I am still rating it a 5 star as even though I may have missed some of the back story - I was throughly blessed with this story. Life change can be so difficult and it was encouraging to read about how Katherine handled the transition of working to retirement. The author was able to weave in her friend Wren’s story of healing from mental health issues. It was such a refreshing perspective to see how the author showed us that a person can deal with their mental health and still live as a productive member of society. So many authors paint mental illness as a end rather than something to live with and through. At times I found myself getting angry with Katherine’s daughter Sarah as I found her rude and pushy. - I don’t say that as a negative but rather a positive. It’s refreshing to read a novel that is not mere fluff and stirs up my emotions. It makes me ponder my own life and encourages me to explore why I am reacting the way that I am. Feathers of Hope has deep Christian teaching and it felt like I was not only reading a fiction book but a book of application as well. I would most definitely recommend this book to others.
I was given a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher for my honest review and opinion.
#NetGalley #FeatherofHope #SharonGarloughBrown
I was given a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher for my honest review and opinion.
#NetGalley #FeatherofHope #SharonGarloughBrown
May 12, 2022
I really wanted and expected to love this book—and there was a lot to love in here. Wren’s delight in paintings thrilled me; I’m not an artist the way she is, but I loved seeing the world of creativity through her eyes. I also appreciated Katherine’s outlook and desire to keep a clean book between herself and the Lord. That’s something I desire, too, and seeing it appear in characters in a fictional story is a real blessing.
I was disappointed, though, that instead of turning to the scriptures for meditation or inspiration for prayer, characters typically lit a candle, held a “holding cross”, or studied certain aspects of a painting. It’s not wrong to use physical things to turn our hearts and attention to the Lord, but I feel like the way things were described here were bordering on New Age-type ideas. I hope I’m wrong, but that was the feeling I got. There was very little scripture quotation in this book, compared to the Sensible Shoes series, for example, and that disappointed me when the characters are so obviously “Christian”.
With that said, there was a lot of good in the book, but for me, the distractions from God and His Word ended up overshadowing almost anything else I may have gotten out of it. Dealing with life change, healing, and forgiveness, there are some beautiful points here, but I’m disappointed to say that I can’t fully recommend this read.
Star rating: ★★★½ — good, but I can't fully recommend it.
I was given a review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.
I was disappointed, though, that instead of turning to the scriptures for meditation or inspiration for prayer, characters typically lit a candle, held a “holding cross”, or studied certain aspects of a painting. It’s not wrong to use physical things to turn our hearts and attention to the Lord, but I feel like the way things were described here were bordering on New Age-type ideas. I hope I’m wrong, but that was the feeling I got. There was very little scripture quotation in this book, compared to the Sensible Shoes series, for example, and that disappointed me when the characters are so obviously “Christian”.
With that said, there was a lot of good in the book, but for me, the distractions from God and His Word ended up overshadowing almost anything else I may have gotten out of it. Dealing with life change, healing, and forgiveness, there are some beautiful points here, but I’m disappointed to say that I can’t fully recommend this read.
Star rating: ★★★½ — good, but I can't fully recommend it.
I was given a review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.
May 3, 2022
Provocative, rich, compelling, and true. Sharon's storytelling is second to none. I love the way she weaves the work of the Holy Spirit through the lives and stories of the characters - holding up mirrors to one another's blindspots and bringing the characters to deeper transformation through exposing their blindspots through loving and restorative community. Like a rock tumbler, the characters rumble together through conflict and come out on the other side more smooth and reflecting their true selves more clearly.
This book, along with all Sharon's novels challenged me to look inward on my own journey in forgiveness, those I withhold grace from, and where I too need to grow in compassion and empathy towards those who are not like me. So grateful for Sharon's books and their impact in the world and my life!
This book, along with all Sharon's novels challenged me to look inward on my own journey in forgiveness, those I withhold grace from, and where I too need to grow in compassion and empathy towards those who are not like me. So grateful for Sharon's books and their impact in the world and my life!
April 26, 2022
I have always enjoyed Sharon's books, and this was no exceptions. Sharon has a way with words that not many authors have. She expertly tells the stories of multiple characters in such a way you can see yourself in each of them. This book talks about changes, dealing with mental illness, grief, and coming out of the darkness. Sharon shows how processing and embracing unsettling items can move you to a place of acceptance and understanding. I am blessed that I was able to read this latest book and hope that she will continue to listen to God’s nudging for more books in the future.
March 30, 2024
Another gift of a book from Sharon Garlough Brown. It reads like a story but is actually a great teaching method. She weaves spiritual truth into the dialogues by revealing the underlying thoughts and inner tussles of the characters. Brilliant. I really enjoyed this book, but am sad to realise that this is the end of the series.
April 18, 2022
I devoured this book and also hated for it to end. I appreciate how the author touches on current issues that should be of concern for Jesus followers and how the characters seem so real. Each character was relatable in their own way and they give me encouragement and hope to keep following Jesus.
April 22, 2025
I was given this book as a gift and while I’m technically the audience for it, I don’t feel like I really was the audience. I have A LOT of thoughts on this book. I think this book is the definition of why I have an issue with Christian fiction. It seems to be written only for Christians who understand the jargon and ministry, which feels pointless to me. Why shouldn’t Christian fiction be accessible to all people, including non Christian? That’s a bigger discussion, but back to the book…
I found the storyline to be very uninteresting and while I know this is a sequel, I really struggled to figure out what was going on. I didn’t figure out a lot of the core details of the book (for example, who Casey was and how Wren knew him) until the end of the book. I struggled with the characters and found myself confused by how old some of them were (particularly Wren) as there seemed to be a lot of old single women for some reason. All the characters seemed to have a strangely intricate knowledge of art, even if they weren’t artists, and the way they thought about things didn’t feel realistic. They have some moments that show the characters’ flaws, but the novel makes a huge deal of any small forthcoming. It feels very thought-out by the author, but not particularly realistic. The author really wanted the reader to believe that every character is inherently good, but Katherine and Sarah made some frustrating decisions at times but were always glorified in the end. I found Katherine almost too “perfect”, which didn’t make her feel real. I always knew I was reading a book, which isn’t how a novel should make me feel.
I don’t like the way this book is written, which is the core of why I didn’t enjoy this book. The author draws attention to small details like what the characters are eating or wearing, but doesn’t think it’s important to explain basic details of the characters’ motives until the very end of the book. The problem with that is that the reader has no reason to care if they don’t understand what is going on early on. Also, too much emphasis was put on “Christianese” and biblical language which felt preachy and unnecessary.
Can a novel be too Christian? I think so. As a Christian, I wish we had novels that were better written, more realistic and accurate to what it’s really like as a Christian (we don’t always get on our hands and knees with a candle in our hand!) and more accessible to all people, Christian or not.
I found the storyline to be very uninteresting and while I know this is a sequel, I really struggled to figure out what was going on. I didn’t figure out a lot of the core details of the book (for example, who Casey was and how Wren knew him) until the end of the book. I struggled with the characters and found myself confused by how old some of them were (particularly Wren) as there seemed to be a lot of old single women for some reason. All the characters seemed to have a strangely intricate knowledge of art, even if they weren’t artists, and the way they thought about things didn’t feel realistic. They have some moments that show the characters’ flaws, but the novel makes a huge deal of any small forthcoming. It feels very thought-out by the author, but not particularly realistic. The author really wanted the reader to believe that every character is inherently good, but Katherine and Sarah made some frustrating decisions at times but were always glorified in the end. I found Katherine almost too “perfect”, which didn’t make her feel real. I always knew I was reading a book, which isn’t how a novel should make me feel.
I don’t like the way this book is written, which is the core of why I didn’t enjoy this book. The author draws attention to small details like what the characters are eating or wearing, but doesn’t think it’s important to explain basic details of the characters’ motives until the very end of the book. The problem with that is that the reader has no reason to care if they don’t understand what is going on early on. Also, too much emphasis was put on “Christianese” and biblical language which felt preachy and unnecessary.
Can a novel be too Christian? I think so. As a Christian, I wish we had novels that were better written, more realistic and accurate to what it’s really like as a Christian (we don’t always get on our hands and knees with a candle in our hand!) and more accessible to all people, Christian or not.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2022
Having been a long-time fan and reader of Sharon’s books, beginning with her Sensible Shoes series, I expected yet another excellent read with much spiritual insight to ponder and apply to my life, as needed, along the way. This second series of Sharon’s, Shades of Light, Remember Me and this newest one, Feathers of Hope focuses on two familiar characters. Katherine (Kit) as she faces retirement from her long-term position as director of the New Hope Retreat Center and her great-niece, Wren, a budding artist, who continues to wrestle with on-going depression and grief. This book definitely fills in many details of Kit’s life story which we were not previously privy. We are introduced to several new characters in Feathers of Hope, several with strong personalities, giving both Kit and Wren much to linger with and pray about.
This portion of the book, with the quote spoke to me as many times I struggle with just how to pray or what to pray. I have begun using the prayers of others, and the practice is helping me develop a strong prayer life. One evening as Kit struggles with the changes coming, she reads a note in a folder of liturgical prayers from the chaplain at the psychiatric hospital where she had been a patient. “Dear Katherine, These are prayers for you when you don’t have the words, or when your own words sound hollow, or when your sighs or groans and tears are so deep and so overwhelming that you need a container larger than your own heart to hold them. These are prayers to remind you that you are not alone in your ache and your longings. You are never abandoned in your pain. And when you do not have the strength to reach for God, you are not beyond God’s reach. May these words—some of which have long been prayed continually around the globe—bring you comfort and peace.”
I believe the readers of Sharon’s first two books in this series will undoubtedly enjoy this book. It shows numerous glimpses of our HOPE in the Lord, especially for those suffering with mental illness, interpersonal relationships, and life changes. However, it may leave you with a few “feathers” ruffled as you struggle to come to grips with Kit’s replacement and his ideas on how to implement HIS convictions to this well-established retreat center!
This portion of the book, with the quote spoke to me as many times I struggle with just how to pray or what to pray. I have begun using the prayers of others, and the practice is helping me develop a strong prayer life. One evening as Kit struggles with the changes coming, she reads a note in a folder of liturgical prayers from the chaplain at the psychiatric hospital where she had been a patient. “Dear Katherine, These are prayers for you when you don’t have the words, or when your own words sound hollow, or when your sighs or groans and tears are so deep and so overwhelming that you need a container larger than your own heart to hold them. These are prayers to remind you that you are not alone in your ache and your longings. You are never abandoned in your pain. And when you do not have the strength to reach for God, you are not beyond God’s reach. May these words—some of which have long been prayed continually around the globe—bring you comfort and peace.”
I believe the readers of Sharon’s first two books in this series will undoubtedly enjoy this book. It shows numerous glimpses of our HOPE in the Lord, especially for those suffering with mental illness, interpersonal relationships, and life changes. However, it may leave you with a few “feathers” ruffled as you struggle to come to grips with Kit’s replacement and his ideas on how to implement HIS convictions to this well-established retreat center!
August 23, 2024
I was hoping to like this one because I liked her first series, sensible shoes. Although written well, and it got into some pretty deep subjects, especially continuing with the mental health issues, most parts of it annoyed me. I couldn’t believe that Wren was so naïve, that she couldn’t figure out that her so-called friend really wasn’t a friend and wasn’t in fact using her and his mental illness and as a place to stay and a person to use. She seemed oblivious to the obvious when she supposedly knew him for so long he would think she would’ve figured him out by then, the references to Peter, the rooster, denial should have been pretty obvious that he was betraying her and lying to her. But for some reason, it took her the whole three books to figure that out. Also the Sarah in this book was annoying to me. Her mom was a grown woman, why she felt that she had to get involved and tell her what to do and arranged her life for her is beyond me. She should’ve just kept her mouth shut and let her mom live her own life. Too much in the self-awareness, I can’t believe that this many people would be so self-aware that they would immediately figure out the feelings in the issues and immediately repent or change them. It just didn’t ring true to me. And also seem to always feel guilty for feeling angry or resentful, any even closely negative feeling she immediately tried to shove it down and pray about it and apologize For it. That’s just not realistic! It’s OK to have feelings just as long as you don’t act negatively on them. I had every right to feel those feelings about her husband, her daughter, etc., and the whole situation the constant references to Vincent, as a first name basis, as if they were buddies, was Uber annoying. I skipped past those like I did the other two books. Please refer to him as van Gogh like everybody else in the world does. Definitely not as good as the first series, a bit too much. Also, the slipping in of diversity seemed really out of place, like nothing to do with the plot of the book, almost as much as though she felt that this was current I have to add it just like every other TV show and movie and society nowadays. Super annoying.
May 8, 2022
For the first 100 or so pages I was grappling with whether I'd be able to get through the rest of the book. It was slow, not a lot happened and I was getting a little depressed reading the latest in Kit and Wren's stories.
And then the Spirit touched me using Garlough Brown's gentle style. I was able to put myself into the story and walk alongside these brave women as they did life together and apart. Both Kit and Wren were healing and we get to walk with them through this season. Kit is retiring and she is confronted with uncertainty about her future, being replaced in a job she loved, and issues with her daughter, Sarah, the loss of her son, Micah and ex-husband, Robert. It's a lot for anyone and it's beautiful how Garlough Brown gives us a front row seat into the grace of Jesus as He uses the Holy Spirit to minister to her. It's spiritual formation and all its messiness, beauty and mystery.
Wren, similarly, is struggling to re-orient herself after the sudden death of her best friend. She's found solace in Kit, her great-aunt's companionship and tranquil home, while juggling two cleaning jobs.
The story deals with many topical matters: racial diversity, ageing, mental health, aged care facilities, retirement, loss of loved ones, mothers and daughters, daughters and step mothers, broken marriages and more. And Garlough Brown doesn't shy away from showing us that even though Kit, in particular, is a spiritual director and has a strong walk with God, struggles with the same issues we all do. Spiritual formation is a gradual process that really never ends, that indeed we require grace and more grace to allow God to keep doing His work in us as we join Him in His redemptive story. And how important relationships are in His story. There';s no point trying to do it on your own.
In the end I didn't really want the story to end and wonder what might come next in Garlough Brown's imagination.
I was very fortunate to receive an early ebook copy from IVP via NetGalley with no expectation of a favourable review.
And then the Spirit touched me using Garlough Brown's gentle style. I was able to put myself into the story and walk alongside these brave women as they did life together and apart. Both Kit and Wren were healing and we get to walk with them through this season. Kit is retiring and she is confronted with uncertainty about her future, being replaced in a job she loved, and issues with her daughter, Sarah, the loss of her son, Micah and ex-husband, Robert. It's a lot for anyone and it's beautiful how Garlough Brown gives us a front row seat into the grace of Jesus as He uses the Holy Spirit to minister to her. It's spiritual formation and all its messiness, beauty and mystery.
Wren, similarly, is struggling to re-orient herself after the sudden death of her best friend. She's found solace in Kit, her great-aunt's companionship and tranquil home, while juggling two cleaning jobs.
The story deals with many topical matters: racial diversity, ageing, mental health, aged care facilities, retirement, loss of loved ones, mothers and daughters, daughters and step mothers, broken marriages and more. And Garlough Brown doesn't shy away from showing us that even though Kit, in particular, is a spiritual director and has a strong walk with God, struggles with the same issues we all do. Spiritual formation is a gradual process that really never ends, that indeed we require grace and more grace to allow God to keep doing His work in us as we join Him in His redemptive story. And how important relationships are in His story. There';s no point trying to do it on your own.
In the end I didn't really want the story to end and wonder what might come next in Garlough Brown's imagination.
I was very fortunate to receive an early ebook copy from IVP via NetGalley with no expectation of a favourable review.
October 17, 2022
Feathers of Hope is the story of three women: Katherine Rhodes, the preacher who is about to retire from her role as director of the New Hope Retreat Center, Wren Crawford, her great-niece, an artist and social worker turned cleaner, and Sarah, Katherine’s daughter and the mother of two teenage girls. It’s a novel about relationships: the relationships between the characters, and their relationships with God.
This is the first book I’ve read by Sharon Garlough Brown, although I’ve often seen her novels recommended as novels with solid Christian content and spiritual depth, and I have to agree with that assessment. Brown’s characters follow Biblical Christianity, not the me-me-me self-help variety often portrayed in the media. It’s both challenging and refreshing.
I especially liked the way feathers of Hope addressed some difficult issues that aren’t often addressed in Christian fiction, issues like mental health, women preachers, and racism inside and outside the church. They are all big issues with no easy answer, ant it was refreshing to see them tackled fairly, but without trying to find an answer for the unanswerable.
Feathers of Hope is the third book in the Shades of Light series, following Shades of Light and Remember Me. I do recommend reading the series in order. I didn’t – I haven’t read either of the other books, and I found the early part of the story difficult because I didn’t know the characters or understand the relationships between them.
(I’ve just found Shades of Light on my Kindle. Oops. But guess what’ I’ll be reading next?) Recommended for Christians who want to read Christian fiction with depth and truth. Thanks to InterVarsity Press and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
This is the first book I’ve read by Sharon Garlough Brown, although I’ve often seen her novels recommended as novels with solid Christian content and spiritual depth, and I have to agree with that assessment. Brown’s characters follow Biblical Christianity, not the me-me-me self-help variety often portrayed in the media. It’s both challenging and refreshing.
I especially liked the way feathers of Hope addressed some difficult issues that aren’t often addressed in Christian fiction, issues like mental health, women preachers, and racism inside and outside the church. They are all big issues with no easy answer, ant it was refreshing to see them tackled fairly, but without trying to find an answer for the unanswerable.
Feathers of Hope is the third book in the Shades of Light series, following Shades of Light and Remember Me. I do recommend reading the series in order. I didn’t – I haven’t read either of the other books, and I found the early part of the story difficult because I didn’t know the characters or understand the relationships between them.
(I’ve just found Shades of Light on my Kindle. Oops. But guess what’ I’ll be reading next?) Recommended for Christians who want to read Christian fiction with depth and truth. Thanks to InterVarsity Press and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
June 2, 2022
Sharon Garlough Brown is back with a new novel. Feathers of Hope is a sequel to her previous book Shades of Light and both are in the tradition of her fabulous Sensible Shoes series.
Feathers of Hope focuses on grief in various forms and for a variety of losses. Depression, panic, and anxiety are also noted. As the main characters wrestle with loss and interact with other individuals throughout the book, Brown leads readers through a spectrum of emotional responses to the issues raised through the story. As in prevous works, Brown does not hide the very real concerns of both Kit, who functions as a spiritual director and retreat leader, and Wren, the young woman who lives with her. Several new characters play a more prominent role in both as individuals who add to the range of emotions exhibited and who provide wisdom and clarity--or both. I am hopeful that these new characters may play a role in future works. The topic of racial justice is introduced in this work as well.
As in the previous work, art and specifically the painting of Vincent Van Gogh play a major role in the story. An accompanying study guide is available that provides scripture readings, reflection questions, and opportunity to reflect on the painting mentioned. Feathers of Hope is a marvelous story to read straight through for enjoyment and then to read a second time with the study guide which will provide a much richer experience. Highly recommended for reading by individuals or for a book group.
I received a complementary copy from InterVarsity Press via Net Galley. I was not required to provide a positive review.
Feathers of Hope focuses on grief in various forms and for a variety of losses. Depression, panic, and anxiety are also noted. As the main characters wrestle with loss and interact with other individuals throughout the book, Brown leads readers through a spectrum of emotional responses to the issues raised through the story. As in prevous works, Brown does not hide the very real concerns of both Kit, who functions as a spiritual director and retreat leader, and Wren, the young woman who lives with her. Several new characters play a more prominent role in both as individuals who add to the range of emotions exhibited and who provide wisdom and clarity--or both. I am hopeful that these new characters may play a role in future works. The topic of racial justice is introduced in this work as well.
As in the previous work, art and specifically the painting of Vincent Van Gogh play a major role in the story. An accompanying study guide is available that provides scripture readings, reflection questions, and opportunity to reflect on the painting mentioned. Feathers of Hope is a marvelous story to read straight through for enjoyment and then to read a second time with the study guide which will provide a much richer experience. Highly recommended for reading by individuals or for a book group.
I received a complementary copy from InterVarsity Press via Net Galley. I was not required to provide a positive review.
Read
April 18, 2022I was so excited to see Sharon coming out with a new book! I love how her books illustrate everyday people practicing spiritual disciplines in their very human, flawed lives!
This book was amazing! Beginning with the opening scene setting us up with hope and intrigue from the first sentence. We come back again to our favorite characters and are introduced to new ones as well.
Sharon takes us into deeper places with the characters’ struggles and flaws. We see each of them, like us and everyone we know, holy and human. I used to think that if someone was holy, filled with the Holy Spirit and the power that raised Jesus from the dead, they would overcome every weakness. Doesn’t God tell us be holy as He is holy.. to be perfect as He is? Doesn’t that mean it’s possible?
…that if someone struggles with pride, one day they’ll wake up and see how pig-headed they are? If someone is naturally sharp tongued won’t the Spirit heal them and they’ll be tender, patient and kind?
Maybe.. but not necessarily. Someone can still be holy while struggling with epic wounds from which they might never recover. No, we will never be perfect and yet in our endeavor to be more like Jesus even our mess-ups he can use if we are willing to be humble. Our weaknesses are the very places God can call his people to show love and forgiveness. Is it any great feat if we love those who have all together?
This book reminds me of how God is always bringing good things. If we keep walking we will see the morning twilight bringing the dawn of a new day.
This book was amazing! Beginning with the opening scene setting us up with hope and intrigue from the first sentence. We come back again to our favorite characters and are introduced to new ones as well.
Sharon takes us into deeper places with the characters’ struggles and flaws. We see each of them, like us and everyone we know, holy and human. I used to think that if someone was holy, filled with the Holy Spirit and the power that raised Jesus from the dead, they would overcome every weakness. Doesn’t God tell us be holy as He is holy.. to be perfect as He is? Doesn’t that mean it’s possible?
…that if someone struggles with pride, one day they’ll wake up and see how pig-headed they are? If someone is naturally sharp tongued won’t the Spirit heal them and they’ll be tender, patient and kind?
Maybe.. but not necessarily. Someone can still be holy while struggling with epic wounds from which they might never recover. No, we will never be perfect and yet in our endeavor to be more like Jesus even our mess-ups he can use if we are willing to be humble. Our weaknesses are the very places God can call his people to show love and forgiveness. Is it any great feat if we love those who have all together?
This book reminds me of how God is always bringing good things. If we keep walking we will see the morning twilight bringing the dawn of a new day.
April 21, 2022
Sharon is one of my favorite authors. She gently and graciously weaves her real-life experience and wisdom as a spiritual director into her novels. Her characters draw me in; their dialog, actions, and thoughts easily could belong to me or my friends.
Feathers of Hope continues the story in Shades of Light and Remember Me, reminding us that mental health does not have a quick fix, there are ups and downs along the way, and it affects many people, directly or indirectly.
Our beloved, wise, spiritual guide, Katherine, is preparing to retire during this book. Even though she has "run the race well," she remains open to learning, even learning difficult things about herself.
Katherine began to suspect she had a blind spot during her whole career at New Hope. Those who know and love her assured her that she was wrong. Yet, as she sat with the topic and with God, she realized that she had, indeed, neglected to be proactive in an important area of life.
I appreciated that Sharon is willing to weave difficult issues into her novels, issues such as mental health, grief, suicide, bipolar, homelessness, alcoholism, and racial healing. And, I am thankful to have gotten a deep appreciation for Vincent Van Gogh through this series.
Feathers of Hope continues the story in Shades of Light and Remember Me, reminding us that mental health does not have a quick fix, there are ups and downs along the way, and it affects many people, directly or indirectly.
Our beloved, wise, spiritual guide, Katherine, is preparing to retire during this book. Even though she has "run the race well," she remains open to learning, even learning difficult things about herself.
Katherine began to suspect she had a blind spot during her whole career at New Hope. Those who know and love her assured her that she was wrong. Yet, as she sat with the topic and with God, she realized that she had, indeed, neglected to be proactive in an important area of life.
I appreciated that Sharon is willing to weave difficult issues into her novels, issues such as mental health, grief, suicide, bipolar, homelessness, alcoholism, and racial healing. And, I am thankful to have gotten a deep appreciation for Vincent Van Gogh through this series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews