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Sovereign Love #1
The One Who Knows Me
IS GOD SOVEREIGN OVER TRIUMPH AND TRAGEDY?
Bullies and family disasters have left eighteen-year-old Teeyana Sparks filled with anxiety and doubt. She feels pressured to believe in God, but as she embarks on her college journey in the hope of one day working at Google as a graphic designer, the only thing she believes in is controlling her own life. Things change when she meets Jayden Williams—the guy with a charming smile and kind heart.
Struggling with grief and recovering from a season of depression, nineteen-year-old Jayden is determined to help Teeyana believe in God’s goodness again. But when yet another tragedy strikes close to home, Teeyana’s response exposes Jayden’s unhealed wounds and tips him into a mental health relapse.
With the looming possibility of not getting her dream life, Teeyana is caught between holding on to her illusion of control and surrendering to a God she’s rejected. And as Jayden strives to break out of his despondency, he has to face that letting God in may involve him letting go of his friendship with Teeyana. Teeyana and Jayden must wrestle with uncomfortable truths, and the pride in their hearts, in order to face their biggest giant—God’s sovereignty over both triumph and tragedy.
The One Who Knows Me, book one in the Sovereign Love series, is a heart-warming standalone novel about hope and learning to take comfort in the sovereign goodness of a loving God who knows all things.
Bullies and family disasters have left eighteen-year-old Teeyana Sparks filled with anxiety and doubt. She feels pressured to believe in God, but as she embarks on her college journey in the hope of one day working at Google as a graphic designer, the only thing she believes in is controlling her own life. Things change when she meets Jayden Williams—the guy with a charming smile and kind heart.
Struggling with grief and recovering from a season of depression, nineteen-year-old Jayden is determined to help Teeyana believe in God’s goodness again. But when yet another tragedy strikes close to home, Teeyana’s response exposes Jayden’s unhealed wounds and tips him into a mental health relapse.
With the looming possibility of not getting her dream life, Teeyana is caught between holding on to her illusion of control and surrendering to a God she’s rejected. And as Jayden strives to break out of his despondency, he has to face that letting God in may involve him letting go of his friendship with Teeyana. Teeyana and Jayden must wrestle with uncomfortable truths, and the pride in their hearts, in order to face their biggest giant—God’s sovereignty over both triumph and tragedy.
The One Who Knows Me, book one in the Sovereign Love series, is a heart-warming standalone novel about hope and learning to take comfort in the sovereign goodness of a loving God who knows all things.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 21, 2021
214 people are currently reading
3874 people want to read
About the author
Joan Embola
7 books441 followersJoan Embola is a UK-based Cameroonian-Nigerian Christian author who aims to share God's love one word at a time. She writes books about diverse characters whose hope-filled stories point to the sovereign love and goodness of God in our broken world. She is a qualified Physician Associate and also the founder of Love Qualified, a ministry dedicated to encouraging others to experience the sovereign love of the one true God who has qualified us to be His beloved ones. She is a passionate lover and teacher of God’s word, and she shares this passion on her YouTube channel, blog, and podcast. When she’s not writing or curled up with a book, you’ll find her watching movies, YouTube videos, or making memories with her family and friends.
You can connect with her at www.joanembola.co.uk and on instagram, YouTube, her blog, and her podcast. Join her newsletter to stay up to date with new releases and more book news.
You can connect with her at www.joanembola.co.uk and on instagram, YouTube, her blog, and her podcast. Join her newsletter to stay up to date with new releases and more book news.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
September 15, 2022
I saw the author promoting her book on tiktok more than once and something about it really caught my eye and I decided to read it.
Originally I wanted to wait to get a physical copy to do so, but now I think it's better I didn't because I would've ruined the poor book with my tears.
The One Who Knows Me was DETERMINED to make me cry every few pages. I'd dry my eyes, blow my nose and continue reading and then it would make me cry again, and again, and again...
There was one point in the story where I cried after EVERY SINGLE PAGE. It was just too beautiful and painful and I AM NOT OKAY AFTER THIS.
I loved everything. The only thing I minded is that the girl with an alternative style was a bully at the start, and stereotypically angry at the world. We aren't all like that, I promiseeee.
But I did like that by the end she was shown to be a good person, and that she didn't change her style (just the hair was a bit less bright).
And what's also interesting is that I started reading this book last night (I was already crying by the point I stopped at, even though the saddest part was yet to happen), and then I had a Bible related dream. If that doesn't say how in-tune with God Joan Embola is then I don't know what does.
So I'm going to work on getting signed copies of this book, and the next book in the series, because I NEED THEM.
Obviously, five stars. And remember friends, God is good.
Originally I wanted to wait to get a physical copy to do so, but now I think it's better I didn't because I would've ruined the poor book with my tears.
The One Who Knows Me was DETERMINED to make me cry every few pages. I'd dry my eyes, blow my nose and continue reading and then it would make me cry again, and again, and again...
There was one point in the story where I cried after EVERY SINGLE PAGE. It was just too beautiful and painful and I AM NOT OKAY AFTER THIS.
I loved everything. The only thing I minded is that the girl with an alternative style was a bully at the start, and stereotypically angry at the world. We aren't all like that, I promiseeee.
But I did like that by the end she was shown to be a good person, and that she didn't change her style (just the hair was a bit less bright).
And what's also interesting is that I started reading this book last night (I was already crying by the point I stopped at, even though the saddest part was yet to happen), and then I had a Bible related dream. If that doesn't say how in-tune with God Joan Embola is then I don't know what does.
So I'm going to work on getting signed copies of this book, and the next book in the series, because I NEED THEM.
Obviously, five stars. And remember friends, God is good.
August 1, 2021
This book covers themes on mental health, healing, coming back to God after tragedy, and learning to give everything to God when you can't see the next step in your life. The characters are wonderfully written and very relatable. One of the best contemporary books I've read in awhile!
January 29, 2022
Wow, what a God-honoring book. Joan's love for the Lord shines through in every word as she gives her characters hope and peace in the midst of their brokenness and pain. I don't think I've ever read a book about Americans written by a non-American before- it's always the other way around, lol- so the Britishisms were kind of fun. I loved how college students Jayden and Teeyana were surrounded by parents, grandparents, pastors and friends who loved Jesus and poured into their lives. It was a breath of fresh air.
November 17, 2023
But He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I will come forth as gold.
-Job 23:10
“The One Who Knows Me” is the first book in the Sovereign Love series. My first introduction to this book was when it appeared on my feed. There isn’t a lot of black christian content (at least that I’ve found) and the prospect of a black christian romance written by a black christian author had me immediately adding it to my kindle.
“It just sucks that one person can make me feel so afraid, so insecure, and so weak.”
Teeyana Sparks had it all: family, friendship and faith. But after her dad is fired from his job for showing integrity, her family having to move to financially support themselves, her younger brother being born premature and being bullied relentlessly during her last years of high school, her faith is shattered. Why would a loving God allow all that to happen to a family that has served him faithfully? Now in college, she can finally move to her own beat but it’s not as easy as she thought it would be.
“I want to see his face again and hear his encouraging words telling me everything will be okay. But all I'm staring at is the emptiness of his room—the emptiness he left behind.”
Jayden Williams found his faith after losing his brother to suicide. Through the dark days, his relationship with God grew but he struggles with sharing his testimony. Now he’s in college, seeing a therapist and building a community with his fellow christians in school and church. Then he meets Teeyana and as their friendship grows, he finds himself wanting to help her rediscover her faith.
This felt less of a romance and more as a rediscovering-of-faith. There is romance no doubt but a majority of the book is Teeyana coming to terms with all that happened in her life. It was a beautiful read and I can’t wait to read Amara and Heather’s stories.
April 14, 2024
I don't read a lot of Christian books but this one made me curious to read because I’m curious how a Christian (romance?) novel is written and because the main characters are POCs (which we don’t get a lot, even in these current times).
Since this is a Christian based novel, it’s a very conservative book. No explicit love scenes (you only see the two MCs have chaste kiss at the very end), no foul language (although Ive read some reviewers that got mad that there are words like ‘darn’ and ‘crap’ being used here, which is wild to me), a lot of character’s introspection and reflection of relating everything that happened to them through their church’s teachings. It’s nice to see how the characters deal with mental health in a Christian’s perspective.
I like the wholesomeness of the book and the characters, and the application of God’s teachings into moments of sorrow, doubt, and indecisiveness that the character’s go through; but I thought there were moments that it got too preachy and the way the characters talk sounds unrealistic.
I find the love story between the two MCs were so tame that I thought they were better off as friends than lovers. Their story is a slow burn but it never showed us a deeper romantic connection between the two and im a little bit bummed not seeing the two how they manage their new relationship with other. For example, after the MCs declared they want to be girlfriend/boyfriend, we never got to see them date because this happened towards the end of the book. It would be nice to see how young Christian couples date.
Overall, this was a nice read.
Since this is a Christian based novel, it’s a very conservative book. No explicit love scenes (you only see the two MCs have chaste kiss at the very end), no foul language (although Ive read some reviewers that got mad that there are words like ‘darn’ and ‘crap’ being used here, which is wild to me), a lot of character’s introspection and reflection of relating everything that happened to them through their church’s teachings. It’s nice to see how the characters deal with mental health in a Christian’s perspective.
I like the wholesomeness of the book and the characters, and the application of God’s teachings into moments of sorrow, doubt, and indecisiveness that the character’s go through; but I thought there were moments that it got too preachy and the way the characters talk sounds unrealistic.
I find the love story between the two MCs were so tame that I thought they were better off as friends than lovers. Their story is a slow burn but it never showed us a deeper romantic connection between the two and im a little bit bummed not seeing the two how they manage their new relationship with other. For example, after the MCs declared they want to be girlfriend/boyfriend, we never got to see them date because this happened towards the end of the book. It would be nice to see how young Christian couples date.
Overall, this was a nice read.
November 25, 2021
Deep sigh. This book touched on Mental health, suicide. Asking questions on why bad things happen to good people. Teeyana went through a lot in her last year of high school and first year of college. I can understand her poor self-esteem and emotional strain with being bullied.
She was close to giving up on God but the author did well in showing us ways God can work to make His love and concern for us known. Did she stand up for herself? Did she win the never-ending battle on being bullied? Did she open her heart to love?
I loved Jayden!😍 Ooh-la-la! I felt sad when Teeyana 😢... Go and read the book 🤐.
For a debut novel, Joan Embola did a great job. Her writing style is beautiful and sweet. Writing on a topic not a lot of people would. And these are topics that should be treated with care and Joan presented it well. I love the sprinkle of Bible references in the book and how she spoke about the sovereignty of God. Reminding us that God is good. God is faithful. God loves us.
Few Lessons:
🔹Reach out to those who you know are going through personal problems.
🔹Don't be ashamed to talk to your loved ones when you're going through issues.
🔹God sees us. He's aware of everything going on in our lives and is interested even in the tiniest details.
🔹LIfe happens. Things would hurt, but God will make all things beautiful with time as we walk with Him.
God bless you, sis💙.
She was close to giving up on God but the author did well in showing us ways God can work to make His love and concern for us known. Did she stand up for herself? Did she win the never-ending battle on being bullied? Did she open her heart to love?
I loved Jayden!😍 Ooh-la-la! I felt sad when Teeyana 😢... Go and read the book 🤐.
For a debut novel, Joan Embola did a great job. Her writing style is beautiful and sweet. Writing on a topic not a lot of people would. And these are topics that should be treated with care and Joan presented it well. I love the sprinkle of Bible references in the book and how she spoke about the sovereignty of God. Reminding us that God is good. God is faithful. God loves us.
Few Lessons:
🔹Reach out to those who you know are going through personal problems.
🔹Don't be ashamed to talk to your loved ones when you're going through issues.
🔹God sees us. He's aware of everything going on in our lives and is interested even in the tiniest details.
🔹LIfe happens. Things would hurt, but God will make all things beautiful with time as we walk with Him.
God bless you, sis💙.
August 4, 2021
Despite growing up in a family of faith, Teeyana Sparks has her doubts about God. That’s why she has big goals for college, where she’s going to prove that hard work is all she needs to get to where she wants to go, in life. Her plan starts falling apart when she meets Jayden, a young man who has experienced Jesus’s healing power.
I received a complimentary copy of the ebook from the author, in exchange for an honest review.
Audience
Although this is very clearly a Christian book, I feel that the subject matter would be EXCELLENT for non-Christians as well, since Teeyana spends a lot of time grappling with doubt.
While the synopsis probably wouldn’t attract a non-Christian reader, I think the plot itself may not be off-putting. And, I feel this book is a great evangelistic tool. This is a book I want lots of teen girls to read.
What I Liked:
Everything.
*End of Post.*
Just Kidding. But in all seriousness, I really appreciate this book because so much of it is EXACTLY what I want to see in a book.
Encouraging
In grappling with questions of Gods sovereignty, I found this book to be so truthful and encouraging!
Family Dynamics
Awhile back, I mentioned that something I see in Christian books (even books that are commendable in many ways) is negative portrayals of family dynamics— namely, disrespectful teenagers.
With the exception of disagreeing with her parents’ faith, Teeyana tends to demonstrate respect.
Additionally, it is SO REFRESHING to read about Teeyana’s family. They are people of faith who turn their troubles over to the Lord, and they love each other! This is a beautiful depiction of family.
Friendship
I think Teeyana’s best friend, Amara, may be my favorite book best friend. She is an absolute sweetheart with a lot of spunk. But what sets her apart from other fictional friends is that she boldly and actively points Teeyana to Christ. I feel like it’s often the other way around in books, with main characters being the ones to encourage their struggling friends.
I’m also very pleased to see that Amara is the main character of book two.
Plotline
Faith and relationship with God is integral to the plot. While some Christian books seem to include faith as an afterthought, there would be no story if the faith was removed.
There are multiple Scripture references throughout, as well as hymn lyrics. The theme of the book, God’s Sovereignty, is very Scriptural.
Romance
The romance is NOT the most important part of the story, which is something that I really look for in a Christian book. The characters’ relationships with Christ is clearly shown to be the most important.
The romance is also what would be considered “clean,” and the characters are looking to the Lord in their relationship.
Mental Health
This is honestly not my favorite topic to read about, but I do think it’s an important topic to discuss. Even more importantly, I appreciate that this is not being treated as something apart from Jesus. It is very clear that He triumphs even over struggles with depression and anxiety. Amen!
Scripture Connection
The book of Job plays a large role in the plot, and there are several Job verses included, throughout the book. Another verse that came to my mind while reading, due to the title is this one:
“She gave this name to the Lordwho spoke to her: “You are the God who sees me,” for she said, “I have now seen the One who sees me.”
Job 16:13 (NIV)
Invitation to Jesus ❤️
Joan Embola provides an author’s note at the end of the novel, which includes an invitation to surrender to Jesus.
Reading this portion brought tears to my eyes. This wasn’t your basic half-hour sermon followed by an altar call. I feel that the story really established credibility in its presentation of the Gospel, and I’m excited for readers to read this!
There are also discussion questions included 🙂
Trigger Warnings
Something I really appreciate is that the author includes a note at the beginning of the text, explaining that the book includes discussion of possible triggering content, such as depression and suicide. She suggests that, if this material may be triggering, she recommends praying before reading. She also adds that the point of the book is not to “plunge readers into darkness, but to point them to the light and hope we have in our Lord and Saviour—Jesus Christ.”
I am grateful for the author’s conscientiousness and respect for her readers, and I also feel that she truly does point readers to Jesus. I found this book to be very encouraging.
The topics in the book are not “triggers” for me, specifically. However, I do not usually choose books with this subject matter, and I was a little bit concerned that it would be hard for me to read. With that said, I feel that the content was handled very tastefully. There were no graphic/ descriptive parts and no romanticizing of self harm. Overall, I would say the triggers were more references, as opposed to scenes.
Other Content
There were a number of uses of the Lord’s name that I interpreted as exclamatory, rather than prayers.
There was one drinking scene, but it was not promoting drinking.
Overall Impression
This is a book I would definitely recommend. It puts Jesus first, emphasizes purity, and overflows with truth and encouragement. It actually reminds me of both Christy Miller and Princess Cut, which I recently cited as examples of Christian romance that I can recommend.
For me, it was so refreshing to encounter a Christian romance that does keep Christ at the center, as this is, unfortunately, not something I see all the time.
I would also say that, for fans of Christy Miller, I would highly recommend this book, since it reminds me of Christy Miller more than anything else I’ve read. At the same time, it brings something new with its discussion of mental health.
As mentioned, this is the kind of book I would want to get into the hands of lots of teen readers!
Posted with graphics and playlist at
https://stephaniesninthsuitcase.com/2...
I received a complimentary copy of the ebook from the author, in exchange for an honest review.
Audience
Although this is very clearly a Christian book, I feel that the subject matter would be EXCELLENT for non-Christians as well, since Teeyana spends a lot of time grappling with doubt.
While the synopsis probably wouldn’t attract a non-Christian reader, I think the plot itself may not be off-putting. And, I feel this book is a great evangelistic tool. This is a book I want lots of teen girls to read.
What I Liked:
Everything.
*End of Post.*
Just Kidding. But in all seriousness, I really appreciate this book because so much of it is EXACTLY what I want to see in a book.
Encouraging
In grappling with questions of Gods sovereignty, I found this book to be so truthful and encouraging!
Family Dynamics
Awhile back, I mentioned that something I see in Christian books (even books that are commendable in many ways) is negative portrayals of family dynamics— namely, disrespectful teenagers.
With the exception of disagreeing with her parents’ faith, Teeyana tends to demonstrate respect.
Additionally, it is SO REFRESHING to read about Teeyana’s family. They are people of faith who turn their troubles over to the Lord, and they love each other! This is a beautiful depiction of family.
Friendship
I think Teeyana’s best friend, Amara, may be my favorite book best friend. She is an absolute sweetheart with a lot of spunk. But what sets her apart from other fictional friends is that she boldly and actively points Teeyana to Christ. I feel like it’s often the other way around in books, with main characters being the ones to encourage their struggling friends.
I’m also very pleased to see that Amara is the main character of book two.
Plotline
Faith and relationship with God is integral to the plot. While some Christian books seem to include faith as an afterthought, there would be no story if the faith was removed.
There are multiple Scripture references throughout, as well as hymn lyrics. The theme of the book, God’s Sovereignty, is very Scriptural.
Romance
The romance is NOT the most important part of the story, which is something that I really look for in a Christian book. The characters’ relationships with Christ is clearly shown to be the most important.
The romance is also what would be considered “clean,” and the characters are looking to the Lord in their relationship.
Mental Health
This is honestly not my favorite topic to read about, but I do think it’s an important topic to discuss. Even more importantly, I appreciate that this is not being treated as something apart from Jesus. It is very clear that He triumphs even over struggles with depression and anxiety. Amen!
Scripture Connection
The book of Job plays a large role in the plot, and there are several Job verses included, throughout the book. Another verse that came to my mind while reading, due to the title is this one:
“She gave this name to the Lordwho spoke to her: “You are the God who sees me,” for she said, “I have now seen the One who sees me.”
Job 16:13 (NIV)
Invitation to Jesus ❤️
Joan Embola provides an author’s note at the end of the novel, which includes an invitation to surrender to Jesus.
Reading this portion brought tears to my eyes. This wasn’t your basic half-hour sermon followed by an altar call. I feel that the story really established credibility in its presentation of the Gospel, and I’m excited for readers to read this!
There are also discussion questions included 🙂
Trigger Warnings
Something I really appreciate is that the author includes a note at the beginning of the text, explaining that the book includes discussion of possible triggering content, such as depression and suicide. She suggests that, if this material may be triggering, she recommends praying before reading. She also adds that the point of the book is not to “plunge readers into darkness, but to point them to the light and hope we have in our Lord and Saviour—Jesus Christ.”
I am grateful for the author’s conscientiousness and respect for her readers, and I also feel that she truly does point readers to Jesus. I found this book to be very encouraging.
The topics in the book are not “triggers” for me, specifically. However, I do not usually choose books with this subject matter, and I was a little bit concerned that it would be hard for me to read. With that said, I feel that the content was handled very tastefully. There were no graphic/ descriptive parts and no romanticizing of self harm. Overall, I would say the triggers were more references, as opposed to scenes.
Other Content
There were a number of uses of the Lord’s name that I interpreted as exclamatory, rather than prayers.
There was one drinking scene, but it was not promoting drinking.
Overall Impression
This is a book I would definitely recommend. It puts Jesus first, emphasizes purity, and overflows with truth and encouragement. It actually reminds me of both Christy Miller and Princess Cut, which I recently cited as examples of Christian romance that I can recommend.
For me, it was so refreshing to encounter a Christian romance that does keep Christ at the center, as this is, unfortunately, not something I see all the time.
I would also say that, for fans of Christy Miller, I would highly recommend this book, since it reminds me of Christy Miller more than anything else I’ve read. At the same time, it brings something new with its discussion of mental health.
As mentioned, this is the kind of book I would want to get into the hands of lots of teen readers!
Posted with graphics and playlist at
https://stephaniesninthsuitcase.com/2...
September 17, 2022
5⭐️
This book is an absolute masterpiece and I am certain God used this book and Joan Embola to speak to me. This book has opened my eyes to so many questions I had, to the base of Christian living and to many things that were holding me back in my walk with Christ; now I know what I need to work on and what I need to change. Surprisingly this book made me cry more than any book had before. Partly because I read it on a day in which I was really emotional, but because this book spoke to me and reminded me so much of what I had struggled with, that I thought I had gotten over. I am so grateful for this book.
Also I was so impressed to find out that this was Joan Embola's first book. This was written so beautifully. I loved the writing, the plot and the characters. And don't even get me started on the romance. My standards for love have gone so high, I'll most definitely have a hard time finding someone.
I definitely recommend this book to pretty much anyone, even atheists, because I feel this answers some questions that non-believers have and explains why Christians are able to have so much faith in the Lord
This book is an absolute masterpiece and I am certain God used this book and Joan Embola to speak to me. This book has opened my eyes to so many questions I had, to the base of Christian living and to many things that were holding me back in my walk with Christ; now I know what I need to work on and what I need to change. Surprisingly this book made me cry more than any book had before. Partly because I read it on a day in which I was really emotional, but because this book spoke to me and reminded me so much of what I had struggled with, that I thought I had gotten over. I am so grateful for this book.
Also I was so impressed to find out that this was Joan Embola's first book. This was written so beautifully. I loved the writing, the plot and the characters. And don't even get me started on the romance. My standards for love have gone so high, I'll most definitely have a hard time finding someone.
I definitely recommend this book to pretty much anyone, even atheists, because I feel this answers some questions that non-believers have and explains why Christians are able to have so much faith in the Lord
June 23, 2023
To say I’m ultimately disappointed with this book is an understatement. Even though it’s marketed as Christian and has lots of faith content, they’re is still cussing and taking God’s name in vain. At first, I could take God’s name just a bit. I assumed naïveté. But no. Even though a non-Christian cusses, it’s still wrong to use in a book for Christians. Off-page cursing is withstand-able, but if I have to read it? Get it away. If this was marketed as clean fiction I would understand the words, but a Christian novel?? Why would you write cussing? I get it’s the characters saying it, but you’re thinking it in your mind. “Death and life are in the power of the tongue:” that’s in Proverbs 18. Thinking of those words is much of a sin as saying it. Please don’t read this book.
January 27, 2022
I really loved this book. At the time I was reading (and still now) I was going through a time where I doubted everything I believed in God and was going through some sort of heartbreak. So my mind was everywhere and it took me like a month maybe two to read this book. Anywayssss I have to say I loved how Teeyanna was written like a normal black teenager and so was Amara and Jayden. They all seemed like actual black ppl not whitewashed like most books make black people look like so that was a relief. Another thing I liked was how Teeyanna was absolutely honest about being so done with the whole God thing and how she wanted to figure out her own way in life. It sounded so much like me it was scary hahaha. Teeyanna taught me that even tho life sucks and drains the best out of people that I am not alone in my pain or sorrow God is always there waiting to listen and hold me. I went through one of the darkest moments in my life recently and have to say that if it wasn't for God I know I'll be off the deep end. This book helped me on my journey to God. (I'm sorry if I spelt the main character's name wrong)
March 3, 2024
It was so inspiring😍we need more books like this one😍
January 28, 2024
This book was so well written. I enjoyed the story of both Teeyana and Jayden. This book really pulled on my heartstrings. As much as I wanted to give it a 5-star rating, I'm settling for a 4.5-star rating. The characters were well-written and quite intriguing from beginning to end. I loved the diverse attitudes and mindsets of the characters. The writing was my favorite and how Joan was able to weave faith throughout the book. I loved it!
The relationships were so great from the familial, friendship, and romantic points. I loved the family dynamics of all the characters, including Amara and Heather. It gave a good range of family aspects. I enjoyed the friendships between Teeyana and other people especially her best friend Amara. The romance between Jayden and Teeyana was amazing to see it go from friends to more.
I loved the faith aspects concerning pride, grief, being angry with God, and being able to question Him. This book took so many aspects that I could relate to and made it even more relatable. I am excited to read Amara's story in the sequel, The One Who Loves Me, and even Heather's story in the final book, The One Who Sees Me.
Joan Embola is quickly becoming a new favorite author for me. Glad I finally got the chance to start and read this trilogy. I would definitely recommend it to others.
The relationships were so great from the familial, friendship, and romantic points. I loved the family dynamics of all the characters, including Amara and Heather. It gave a good range of family aspects. I enjoyed the friendships between Teeyana and other people especially her best friend Amara. The romance between Jayden and Teeyana was amazing to see it go from friends to more.
I loved the faith aspects concerning pride, grief, being angry with God, and being able to question Him. This book took so many aspects that I could relate to and made it even more relatable. I am excited to read Amara's story in the sequel, The One Who Loves Me, and even Heather's story in the final book, The One Who Sees Me.
Joan Embola is quickly becoming a new favorite author for me. Glad I finally got the chance to start and read this trilogy. I would definitely recommend it to others.
June 17, 2022
SHORT VERSION
The publisher provided me with an ARC for an honest review, all opinions are my own!
This is one of my favorite books. The characters were written very well, they each felt real and their interactions with each other were so genuine and seemed effortless. Teeyana and Jayden in particular were both relatable in their own right and I felt for them. Jayden is goals as a best guy friend and love interest! He’s the most adorable. So many little things he does had me swooning left to right, and I love how he was treated as one of the lead characters. Amara is goals as a person and bestie!. She’s absolutely hilarious and really leaps off the page. (cannot wait to follow her around in book 2!) There’s lots of awesome quotes in here and I wish these characters were real so we could all become good friends.
There’s “chicken nuggets of wisdom” as a particular character would say, in here that God used Joan to share in this story. I love that hard topics were handled truthfully and with care in this book, grief, and loss, suicide, depression, etc… And while this is considered Christian fiction, it was refreshing to see this wasn’t a cheesy sunshiny book but was honest and raw, with characters dealing with real stuff, tough things that people IRL even Christians deal with.
Joan Embola didn’t hide this fact nor did she sugarcoat it either. Because God Himself sees us on our best days and our worst days, He knows what we go through.
“Record my misery; list my tears on Your scroll--are they not in Your record?” Psalm 56:8 NIV
All in all, I read this book at the right time in my life and am really grateful to God for using Joan Embola to touch me with this story.
Everyone please please read this book and share it with your friends and family!
LONG VERSION | PERSONAL TESTIMONY
This book reminded me of a song called “Broken Prayers” by Riley Clemmons
You want my tears, every messy word
Every scar and every fear
You want all I have
With no holding back
When I'm hurt, at my worst
You meet me there
'Cause you see the beauty
In my broken prayers
In my broken prayers
Some things really hit hard for me because I was reading this book during a really tough time, the darkest time of my life. When my newborn was dealing with Jaundice (he had it pretty bad, was born a little prematurely, etc…), we were in and out of the hospital. I prayed so much, but sometimes my son was getting worse or his condition wasn’t changing at all...I was so scared and thought that God wasn’t hearing me or that I couldn’t hear Him. Some days it felt like His presence wasn’t around me and I was alone in this dark place. By God’s grace, my son is better now and I can see clearly that:
“Sometimes we face trials that make us question God’s goodness. But when we talk about our questions, we allow God to reveal His good nature through these trials.” (Joan Embola, The One Who Knows Me)
My faith was tested and I wavered between hope and despair, which made me feel guilty like I wasn’t being a ‘true believer’ but at the end of the day, God was with me even though I was struggling. He saw me and heard every cry. He accepted my broken prayers.
This story can be a really great tool to reach people, whether they're a believer or not, and hopefully, reminds/shows them God's goodness and that He truly has a plan for good, for us.
THE ENDING
Stories like this one are the kind I want my children to grow up on. There should be more of them in the world and God willing it’ll happen! I will certainly be following this author and cannot wait to read what she writes next!
The publisher provided me with an ARC for an honest review, all opinions are my own!
This is one of my favorite books. The characters were written very well, they each felt real and their interactions with each other were so genuine and seemed effortless. Teeyana and Jayden in particular were both relatable in their own right and I felt for them. Jayden is goals as a best guy friend and love interest! He’s the most adorable. So many little things he does had me swooning left to right, and I love how he was treated as one of the lead characters. Amara is goals as a person and bestie!. She’s absolutely hilarious and really leaps off the page. (cannot wait to follow her around in book 2!) There’s lots of awesome quotes in here and I wish these characters were real so we could all become good friends.
There’s “chicken nuggets of wisdom” as a particular character would say, in here that God used Joan to share in this story. I love that hard topics were handled truthfully and with care in this book, grief, and loss, suicide, depression, etc… And while this is considered Christian fiction, it was refreshing to see this wasn’t a cheesy sunshiny book but was honest and raw, with characters dealing with real stuff, tough things that people IRL even Christians deal with.
Joan Embola didn’t hide this fact nor did she sugarcoat it either. Because God Himself sees us on our best days and our worst days, He knows what we go through.
“Record my misery; list my tears on Your scroll--are they not in Your record?” Psalm 56:8 NIV
All in all, I read this book at the right time in my life and am really grateful to God for using Joan Embola to touch me with this story.
Everyone please please read this book and share it with your friends and family!
LONG VERSION | PERSONAL TESTIMONY
This book reminded me of a song called “Broken Prayers” by Riley Clemmons
You want my tears, every messy word
Every scar and every fear
You want all I have
With no holding back
When I'm hurt, at my worst
You meet me there
'Cause you see the beauty
In my broken prayers
In my broken prayers
Some things really hit hard for me because I was reading this book during a really tough time, the darkest time of my life. When my newborn was dealing with Jaundice (he had it pretty bad, was born a little prematurely, etc…), we were in and out of the hospital. I prayed so much, but sometimes my son was getting worse or his condition wasn’t changing at all...I was so scared and thought that God wasn’t hearing me or that I couldn’t hear Him. Some days it felt like His presence wasn’t around me and I was alone in this dark place. By God’s grace, my son is better now and I can see clearly that:
“Sometimes we face trials that make us question God’s goodness. But when we talk about our questions, we allow God to reveal His good nature through these trials.” (Joan Embola, The One Who Knows Me)
My faith was tested and I wavered between hope and despair, which made me feel guilty like I wasn’t being a ‘true believer’ but at the end of the day, God was with me even though I was struggling. He saw me and heard every cry. He accepted my broken prayers.
This story can be a really great tool to reach people, whether they're a believer or not, and hopefully, reminds/shows them God's goodness and that He truly has a plan for good, for us.
THE ENDING
Stories like this one are the kind I want my children to grow up on. There should be more of them in the world and God willing it’ll happen! I will certainly be following this author and cannot wait to read what she writes next!
September 7, 2021
Is it wrong to start off a review by saying we need more books like this in the world? The One Who Knows Me is so incredible not only for young adults, but for all ages. The author covers SO much in this one book. I think this was also timely having just sent my youngest off to college!
The amount of the Gospel that is shared is excellent! You know I love a good Gospel message, and if it's geared towards college age adults, even better. I appreciate that the author doesn't tiptoe around the difficult things young people deal with in life. Teeyana's struggle with her faith was so true to life. Having a roommate who you don't click with, for sure true to life. I appreciate how the author is part of normalizing seeking help when dealing with depression. She also covers the topic of suicide. See, she hits a lot of hard topics.
I loved how raw and real Teeyana and Jayden were. Their family lives are portrayed like any other in our modern day & age. Life happens and sometimes it brings about a crisis of faith. The secondary characters are proof of how necessary it is to be pouring Truth into our young adults and encouraging their faith walks.
The One Who Knows Me is a story that I think will encourage those who aren't sure about their faith or who are struggling through a time where they're far from the Lord. Time and time again the author shows us through her characters of where our hope lies.
*I was sent the ebook for review. This is my personal opinion.
The amount of the Gospel that is shared is excellent! You know I love a good Gospel message, and if it's geared towards college age adults, even better. I appreciate that the author doesn't tiptoe around the difficult things young people deal with in life. Teeyana's struggle with her faith was so true to life. Having a roommate who you don't click with, for sure true to life. I appreciate how the author is part of normalizing seeking help when dealing with depression. She also covers the topic of suicide. See, she hits a lot of hard topics.
I loved how raw and real Teeyana and Jayden were. Their family lives are portrayed like any other in our modern day & age. Life happens and sometimes it brings about a crisis of faith. The secondary characters are proof of how necessary it is to be pouring Truth into our young adults and encouraging their faith walks.
The One Who Knows Me is a story that I think will encourage those who aren't sure about their faith or who are struggling through a time where they're far from the Lord. Time and time again the author shows us through her characters of where our hope lies.
*I was sent the ebook for review. This is my personal opinion.
April 18, 2023
definitely my favorite book ever.
I loved this book which is a Christian romance and it’s the first one I’ve ever read but it’s definitely not the last. I loved how the story is all about God but mental health too. It’s such a good story if you have doubts about God because it treats different questions about the religion. So if you’re a Christian or you’re interested in the religion this book is perfectly for you:)
I loved this book which is a Christian romance and it’s the first one I’ve ever read but it’s definitely not the last. I loved how the story is all about God but mental health too. It’s such a good story if you have doubts about God because it treats different questions about the religion. So if you’re a Christian or you’re interested in the religion this book is perfectly for you:)
February 3, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars
This book tells the story of Teeyana and Jayden — two teens going to college in New York.
Teeyana is a girl who grew up in a Christian home but is losing her faith in God, unbeknownst to her family. She can’t wait to take control of her life at college and leave God behind.
Jayden is a boy who loves God and cherishes his relationship with Him. Despite going through a terrible tragedy, he never lost his hope in God.
🎗🎗🎗
I loved the relationship between Teeyana and Jayden. I enjoyed reading about their friendship and how much they cared for each other.
I also adored the diversity in the book and I really liked how the author wove the diverse backgrounds of the characters into the story.
🎗🎗🎗
Something I also appreciated is the faith-content in the book. I liked how the various characters played a role in Teeyana and Jayden’s journey with God.
🎗🎗🎗
This book tackles mental health issues, and that’s such a good thing because it’s a neglected topic, especially among Christians.
I will say though, that I found the dialogue between the teenage characters a little dated.
🎗🎗🎗
Overall, I really, really enjoyed this book. It was a delight to read.
May 21, 2022
I’ve been wanted to read this book since it came out, and now that I have my feelings are mixed.
Things I Enjoyed…
I LOVED the details about African culture. I don’t think I’ve read a book with African Americans represented as MCs, so getting to see that aspect play out was very culturally enriching. I’m mean, the hair washing details???!!! My mind is blown.
I appreciated Joan’s willingness and tact in tackling mental health issues among Christians. Sadly, it’s a neglected topic.
My favourite character was one that never actually had screen time except in flashbacks - Tyler. <3
The message of God’s love and why bad things happen to good people was beautiful and well done.
Things I didn’t Enjoy…
I felt the pace to be a bit too slow at times, and it took me a while to warm up to the characters and their struggles. Obviously, this isn’t an action or adventure story, but there is quite a bit of introspection and flashback, particularly in the first part of the book.
Some of the dialogue felt a little unnatural, and there are a couple of British words that slipped in (which I loved) but which Americans definitely don’t use.
A couple of the names surprised me…Annie isn’t common for younger women, and I’ve never met anyone under the age of 60 named Bob, let alone a college aged student.
I’ve never really be into the college drama/relationship type stories, and I was a little nervous that this might turn into a “missionary dating” story. It doesn’t exactly, but I felt it came close a few times. Teeyana is upfront with Jayden, a strong Christian, about her doubts concerning faith. While they don’t date, they are attracted to each other, and Jayden does consider asking her to date. I was never exactly sure if Teeyana was just a struggling Christian or a struggling unbeliever since she didn’t claim to be a Christian in the beginning, only that she was raised in a Christian home. So I was a little confused on that point.
My main issue, however, was how many times God’s name was used irreverently. I don’t expect to read frequent uses of the Lord’s name in vain in Christian fiction.
Obviously, many of these points are mere personal preference. Still a well done, insightful book!
Content: language (h*ll) and some slang; college frat party; underage drinking; mention of college students making out in a dorm room; kissing; couple euphemisms
Things I Enjoyed…
I LOVED the details about African culture. I don’t think I’ve read a book with African Americans represented as MCs, so getting to see that aspect play out was very culturally enriching. I’m mean, the hair washing details???!!! My mind is blown.
I appreciated Joan’s willingness and tact in tackling mental health issues among Christians. Sadly, it’s a neglected topic.
My favourite character was one that never actually had screen time except in flashbacks - Tyler. <3
The message of God’s love and why bad things happen to good people was beautiful and well done.
Things I didn’t Enjoy…
I felt the pace to be a bit too slow at times, and it took me a while to warm up to the characters and their struggles. Obviously, this isn’t an action or adventure story, but there is quite a bit of introspection and flashback, particularly in the first part of the book.
Some of the dialogue felt a little unnatural, and there are a couple of British words that slipped in (which I loved) but which Americans definitely don’t use.
A couple of the names surprised me…Annie isn’t common for younger women, and I’ve never met anyone under the age of 60 named Bob, let alone a college aged student.
I’ve never really be into the college drama/relationship type stories, and I was a little nervous that this might turn into a “missionary dating” story. It doesn’t exactly, but I felt it came close a few times. Teeyana is upfront with Jayden, a strong Christian, about her doubts concerning faith. While they don’t date, they are attracted to each other, and Jayden does consider asking her to date. I was never exactly sure if Teeyana was just a struggling Christian or a struggling unbeliever since she didn’t claim to be a Christian in the beginning, only that she was raised in a Christian home. So I was a little confused on that point.
My main issue, however, was how many times God’s name was used irreverently. I don’t expect to read frequent uses of the Lord’s name in vain in Christian fiction.
Obviously, many of these points are mere personal preference. Still a well done, insightful book!
Content: language (h*ll) and some slang; college frat party; underage drinking; mention of college students making out in a dorm room; kissing; couple euphemisms
September 4, 2022
chefs kiss. ticked all the right boxes. Made some really good points about perception of God<3
September 26, 2021
I don’t read contemporary fiction much at all, but I wanted to read this one immediately because of the theme of God’s sovereignty over both triumph and tragedy.
The book deals with the hard topics of loss, depression, anxiety, and suicide, but are handled with care and hope. I think these issues are so important to talk about and I applaud Joan Embola for taking them on.
The friendship/romance between Jayden and Teeyana was sweet and squeaky clean, and I loved seeing them grow throughout the story!
Overall, I thought the message was solid, and the gospel strong throughout—and I loved that!
The book deals with the hard topics of loss, depression, anxiety, and suicide, but are handled with care and hope. I think these issues are so important to talk about and I applaud Joan Embola for taking them on.
The friendship/romance between Jayden and Teeyana was sweet and squeaky clean, and I loved seeing them grow throughout the story!
Overall, I thought the message was solid, and the gospel strong throughout—and I loved that!
January 11, 2022
I received an arc of this book the review is voluntary and is my honest opinion. God's love is ever present and he is not afraid of your questions only what you do after asking them, do you stay to hear the answers or do you leave his presence without the answer. This book takes you on a journey through questions about God, anxiety about a situation even lack of trust in God's sovereignty. God is good all the time.
November 22, 2022
The most relatable book I've read. I've come to like both characters a lot and I've been both to a certain degree at different points in my life. I found myself convicted of things while reading and I'm glad the Lord used you, Joan, to write this story.
Very nicely written and I appreciate how much thought is put into scene and how God is shown through each one of them and each character in how they act too (Jayden in his patience and Teeyana's fam in being her support system).
Very nicely written and I appreciate how much thought is put into scene and how God is shown through each one of them and each character in how they act too (Jayden in his patience and Teeyana's fam in being her support system).
July 4, 2024
really really loved this book! i will admit i had preconceived notions before reading this but they’re all dispelled.
this book was real and showed the struggles and questions we have about God and the things of God. relatable experiences especially growing up.
i laughed, i cried, i pondered and i prayed. 5/5 would definitely recommend!!!
this book was real and showed the struggles and questions we have about God and the things of God. relatable experiences especially growing up.
i laughed, i cried, i pondered and i prayed. 5/5 would definitely recommend!!!
September 11, 2021
What's beautiful about this book is that the main characters are both from a minority culture that is underserved in fiction, and the author does a great job of drawing the reader into that culture. I also found that the Biblical messages were dead on accurate. A great handling of several difficult subjects (bullying, loss, suicide and healing). And even after the dark moments, the book ends on a light and hopeful note. I hope to see this author continue to hone her writing skills and follow up with more books.
August 7, 2021
This serious yet entertaining novel sheds light on some of the struggles that most teenagers/young adults find hard to talk about. The writer did a fantastic job capturing the reality so as to make it relatable. There's a lot to learn on how to best handle these struggles with emphasis on Godly practices. I'll recommend this, it'll be worth your time.
June 3, 2024
Firstly, my general thoughts with loves, likes, and dislikes:
- I loved Jayden. His first chapter drew me in so much, almost had me crying at the mall. The song he was singing in spite of his heartbreak, ach. My heart bled some. He was also a phenomenal friend to Teeyana, and his faith was inspiring. His character arc felt profound and really just inspired me.
- Amara and Teeyana’s friendship was lovely, and I loved reading to see Amara’s own faith grow later in the story when she found the best place to connect. It felt realistic. It was cool that she had Nigerian roots, and her interactions with her mother were sooo realistic hehe.
- I liked many conversations had here in the end, they inspired faith, and I loved the faith-based environment like the youth groups. It was heartwarming to read about.
- The voice was very catchy and easy read. I hadn’t thought I would read it when I first opened the book. But then I read the first sentence, the first page, and I couldn’t stop reading. I did feel the triple exclamation (!!!) marks used each time was super unnecessary. Also, the author needs to learn how to use punctuation points when writing dialogue, it wasn’t accurately done. But no worries, it’s easy to learn!
- I liked that the school was in NY, and hoped so much that I’d get that sense of place. Perhaps a few tours of the city—food, traffic, people, places, scents, river etc.—and just more mentions of the NY landmarks, but it seemed that preeettyyy quickly the author forgot anything that had to do with NY. Which is a bummer because there are NY signs on the cover, and it would’ve been so cool!
- I loved Teeyana’s relationship with Danny, as an older sister who adores my younger brothers too—and have a wide age gap with them!
- I loved Teeyana’s apology to Jayden in the end when she realized what happened to his brother, and that they both understood the same loss enough to encourage each other in their faiths.
✨ Some quotes that really touched me:
- “I am with you, Jamilla. Don’t be afraid”
This is the word God gave to me at the beginning of this year. Through the hardship and tough thoughts of reading this book, this was one verse that I truly felt I was meant to see. To be reminded of🩷
- “If God wants you to get it, you will get it. You have to believe that.”🩷
- “All He’s ever had for you is pure, unconditional love.”
Because there is life, the bigger life, after this world and he made it so we can have it🩷
✨ Below are my more heavier thoughts about 70% into reading when I decided to rate this 3 stars:
I love to rate Christian fiction highly because I always learn something from them, even if it’s a single Bible verse explained from the author’s pov, and I wish to encourage more people to read them.
While I’m not asking anyone not to read this(!!) I’d suggest taking the trigger warning seriously. They were a bit intense and I thought, it’s a Christian book, how bad could it be? Well, a lot of bad things and losses do occur here. And for someone who’s in a place where you need hopeful messages and positivity, this isn’t the book to read just yet.
I’m in a place of applying for something and getting lots of rejections in answer. I’ve been mired in rejections for years, and now the countdown is ticking for the chance to run out completely after years of hoping and praying and trusting in God for that one YES. At this point, I’m trying to surround myself in things that build my faith. To avoid doubts or fear. But all the losses in this book had me questioning; whether this was a sign, preparing me for when I got the final rejection and went back to square one with my dreams. Because Teeyana goes through so much loss and scares, and through it she is supposed to find faith in the end. It made me wonder if coming across this book is a sign of harder things to come for me and that perhaps I had to find faith through them. It really brought a lot of hard thoughts into my mind, rather than the encouragement I’m hoping to find in Christian books.
I’m not sure exactly who’ll find this much tragedy in a book comforting. Especially when thus far at 70%, the losses seem to outweigh any recompense or dialogues that should strengthen faith in the end. Unless the author is recounting a personal experience, I tried to remind myself that this is all fiction to draw out emotions and the author is making all this up. It’s not real life of a Christian going through all these. Many people, I don’t think, will find it easy to read. And I think you need to be in a very solid headspace to go through this one.
But I do hope that if there are those out there who need this story to feel seen or to heal from pain, I hope it finds them.
✨ Comment after finishing the book: the author did a good job of showing that all these tragedies Teeyana faced looked much bigger than they really were because she made her problems the focal point, rather than God. And in the end, many of them were blessings in disguise, like with her parents, or had a bigger ending, like her Grandmother bound for heaven.
However, as a reader until you get to the end, you see it all from Teeyana’s point of view and go through a low point as she is. Those questions of doubts dig into your mind, and I don’t feel that the end explains them away. Instead, you have to cling to your own faith, perhaps ask the Holy Spirit for help, to pull away the negative thoughts or doubts.
It really is a heavy book, all in all. Much heavier than what I needed to read. It twisted my mind in a way I didn’t need and I needed a quiet time with God to connect and prayed for peace before I moved on.
- I loved Jayden. His first chapter drew me in so much, almost had me crying at the mall. The song he was singing in spite of his heartbreak, ach. My heart bled some. He was also a phenomenal friend to Teeyana, and his faith was inspiring. His character arc felt profound and really just inspired me.
- Amara and Teeyana’s friendship was lovely, and I loved reading to see Amara’s own faith grow later in the story when she found the best place to connect. It felt realistic. It was cool that she had Nigerian roots, and her interactions with her mother were sooo realistic hehe.
- I liked many conversations had here in the end, they inspired faith, and I loved the faith-based environment like the youth groups. It was heartwarming to read about.
- The voice was very catchy and easy read. I hadn’t thought I would read it when I first opened the book. But then I read the first sentence, the first page, and I couldn’t stop reading. I did feel the triple exclamation (!!!) marks used each time was super unnecessary. Also, the author needs to learn how to use punctuation points when writing dialogue, it wasn’t accurately done. But no worries, it’s easy to learn!
- I liked that the school was in NY, and hoped so much that I’d get that sense of place. Perhaps a few tours of the city—food, traffic, people, places, scents, river etc.—and just more mentions of the NY landmarks, but it seemed that preeettyyy quickly the author forgot anything that had to do with NY. Which is a bummer because there are NY signs on the cover, and it would’ve been so cool!
- I loved Teeyana’s relationship with Danny, as an older sister who adores my younger brothers too—and have a wide age gap with them!
- I loved Teeyana’s apology to Jayden in the end when she realized what happened to his brother, and that they both understood the same loss enough to encourage each other in their faiths.
✨ Some quotes that really touched me:
- “I am with you, Jamilla. Don’t be afraid”
This is the word God gave to me at the beginning of this year. Through the hardship and tough thoughts of reading this book, this was one verse that I truly felt I was meant to see. To be reminded of🩷
- “If God wants you to get it, you will get it. You have to believe that.”🩷
- “All He’s ever had for you is pure, unconditional love.”
Because there is life, the bigger life, after this world and he made it so we can have it🩷
✨ Below are my more heavier thoughts about 70% into reading when I decided to rate this 3 stars:
I love to rate Christian fiction highly because I always learn something from them, even if it’s a single Bible verse explained from the author’s pov, and I wish to encourage more people to read them.
While I’m not asking anyone not to read this(!!) I’d suggest taking the trigger warning seriously. They were a bit intense and I thought, it’s a Christian book, how bad could it be? Well, a lot of bad things and losses do occur here. And for someone who’s in a place where you need hopeful messages and positivity, this isn’t the book to read just yet.
I’m in a place of applying for something and getting lots of rejections in answer. I’ve been mired in rejections for years, and now the countdown is ticking for the chance to run out completely after years of hoping and praying and trusting in God for that one YES. At this point, I’m trying to surround myself in things that build my faith. To avoid doubts or fear. But all the losses in this book had me questioning; whether this was a sign, preparing me for when I got the final rejection and went back to square one with my dreams. Because Teeyana goes through so much loss and scares, and through it she is supposed to find faith in the end. It made me wonder if coming across this book is a sign of harder things to come for me and that perhaps I had to find faith through them. It really brought a lot of hard thoughts into my mind, rather than the encouragement I’m hoping to find in Christian books.
I’m not sure exactly who’ll find this much tragedy in a book comforting. Especially when thus far at 70%, the losses seem to outweigh any recompense or dialogues that should strengthen faith in the end. Unless the author is recounting a personal experience, I tried to remind myself that this is all fiction to draw out emotions and the author is making all this up. It’s not real life of a Christian going through all these. Many people, I don’t think, will find it easy to read. And I think you need to be in a very solid headspace to go through this one.
But I do hope that if there are those out there who need this story to feel seen or to heal from pain, I hope it finds them.
✨ Comment after finishing the book: the author did a good job of showing that all these tragedies Teeyana faced looked much bigger than they really were because she made her problems the focal point, rather than God. And in the end, many of them were blessings in disguise, like with her parents, or had a bigger ending, like her Grandmother bound for heaven.
However, as a reader until you get to the end, you see it all from Teeyana’s point of view and go through a low point as she is. Those questions of doubts dig into your mind, and I don’t feel that the end explains them away. Instead, you have to cling to your own faith, perhaps ask the Holy Spirit for help, to pull away the negative thoughts or doubts.
It really is a heavy book, all in all. Much heavier than what I needed to read. It twisted my mind in a way I didn’t need and I needed a quiet time with God to connect and prayed for peace before I moved on.
May 17, 2023
loved it!
This book made me feel closer to God. I’ve got answers to questions I’ve had myself. I am very greatful for this book. It helped me strengten my faith that God loves me, He has a plan for me and no matters what the circumstances are, l can trust Him. Thank you!
This book made me feel closer to God. I’ve got answers to questions I’ve had myself. I am very greatful for this book. It helped me strengten my faith that God loves me, He has a plan for me and no matters what the circumstances are, l can trust Him. Thank you!
May 30, 2022
To be honest it was a really good book. It covered important topics and really made me think, which I like. Thank you for this read, I can't wait for the next!
January 23, 2023
I enjoyed this book so much. It’s my first time reading Christian fiction and this book has set a high bar, I am in love with this genre. It’s like a breath of fresh air, for me I guess.
In my reading, I found the writing in the first few chapters quite juvenile which made it quite difficult to read but I also understand that the writer has had no background in writing and found herself doing something for God- I appreciate it and I love it honestly. As I continued to read, I felt like I was witnessing Embola’s writing skills grow which resulted in me practically flying through the pages and enjoying the story much more (or perhaps Embola’s choice of diction throughout the story had the role of imitating Teeyana’s own maturity and relationship with God, I hope that’s the intention. I believe it is because I absolutely love that.)
I loved the characters we’d gotten to know; Tee, Jayden (bless his heart because I have never related to a character like I do with Jayden), Danny, her grandmother and Rupert’s kind heart. Topics of loss and mental illness, tragedies and even the difficult questions Tee had that I myself haven’t had answered but the people closest to me.
As I read the last chapters (from when Tee officially surrendered to God and asked for forgiveness), there were words and scriptures that gave me so much comfort because I had just failed my drivers test (FOR THE THIRD TIME 💀😭) and I’d felt so discouraged and out of control but I needed to remind myself that it was never me in control but God. If I give full control to him and let his will be done, I will have satisfaction in the outcome.
Long story short, I love this book and I can’t wait to read the second book (which I will definitely be buying a physical copy of). Would highly recommend, especially for new believers or believers finding their way back to God.
Bless you
In my reading, I found the writing in the first few chapters quite juvenile which made it quite difficult to read but I also understand that the writer has had no background in writing and found herself doing something for God- I appreciate it and I love it honestly. As I continued to read, I felt like I was witnessing Embola’s writing skills grow which resulted in me practically flying through the pages and enjoying the story much more (or perhaps Embola’s choice of diction throughout the story had the role of imitating Teeyana’s own maturity and relationship with God, I hope that’s the intention. I believe it is because I absolutely love that.)
I loved the characters we’d gotten to know; Tee, Jayden (bless his heart because I have never related to a character like I do with Jayden), Danny, her grandmother and Rupert’s kind heart. Topics of loss and mental illness, tragedies and even the difficult questions Tee had that I myself haven’t had answered but the people closest to me.
As I read the last chapters (from when Tee officially surrendered to God and asked for forgiveness), there were words and scriptures that gave me so much comfort because I had just failed my drivers test (FOR THE THIRD TIME 💀😭) and I’d felt so discouraged and out of control but I needed to remind myself that it was never me in control but God. If I give full control to him and let his will be done, I will have satisfaction in the outcome.
Long story short, I love this book and I can’t wait to read the second book (which I will definitely be buying a physical copy of). Would highly recommend, especially for new believers or believers finding their way back to God.
Bless you
August 25, 2021
The story follows Teeyana as she finds her way through college while struggling with a reason to keep trusting God. It's told from the perspective of Teeyana and Jayden. Their friendship is beautiful as well as their budding romance.
The themes of mental health, suicide, grief and depression are handled so well in the story. I loved all the characters, the community on campus and the growth of the characters. Everyone need a friend like Amara, Teeyana's friend. She is hilarious.
Take aways
- Call and check up on your loved ones. Everyone has their struggles.
-God is sovereign and there is no pain without a purpose
-“We are not entitled to anything in this life. Instead, we owe Him everything. The only thing we rightly deserve from God is His wrath for our sins, but He has so lovingly wiped them away."
Congratulations to the author on an amazing debut.
The themes of mental health, suicide, grief and depression are handled so well in the story. I loved all the characters, the community on campus and the growth of the characters. Everyone need a friend like Amara, Teeyana's friend. She is hilarious.
Take aways
- Call and check up on your loved ones. Everyone has their struggles.
-God is sovereign and there is no pain without a purpose
-“We are not entitled to anything in this life. Instead, we owe Him everything. The only thing we rightly deserve from God is His wrath for our sins, but He has so lovingly wiped them away."
Congratulations to the author on an amazing debut.
August 31, 2021
I enjoyed this book! There was so much to be encouraged by! This book touch on some hard topics that many shy away from. I find at time we can hide the thoughts, feelings and questions we have about God. The One Who Knows Me encourages us to be honest with God and ourselves! I like Amara and Teeyana's friendship. It so down to earth! There's lots to laugh and cry about in this novel! Amara is so funny lol
I have learned and felt so many things by this novel! I like how God's sovereignty and love is written!
Lastly God loves us All. No matter what we have done or what has happened to us please turn to Jesus! He is God's love towards us!
I have learned and felt so many things by this novel! I like how God's sovereignty and love is written!
Lastly God loves us All. No matter what we have done or what has happened to us please turn to Jesus! He is God's love towards us!
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