Edified

by Marissa Sail Fike

Grace's four-year dating anniversary with her high-school sweetheart was sure to sparkle with a ring that would seal their love forever. What she didn't anticipate was the affair that'd tear that dream apart... Now it seems she may never find her new normal, but hope comes in the form of her grandmother's worn leather Bible, initiating a series of dramatic life changes for her and her best friend, Rae.Rae couldn't be more thrilled about her own engagement, but finds herself grappling with the scars of her past. Namely the ones glaring like little white beacons up and down her wrists, threatening the joy of her fast-approaching wedding day. Amidst the chaos, the two girls are inspired to take a chance, and together they attend a bible study group equipped with the power to change their lives forever. Little did Grace know that in doing so, she'd somehow end up face to face with her ex-lover's mistress, and little did Rae know that the very place she'd been avoiding all this time would be the one to awaken a conviction in her that she never saw coming.

361 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 30, 2021

About the author

Marissa Sail Fike was born and raised in the beautiful mountains of Tennessee. When she’s not writing, she can be found with her nose stuck in a book, recording new episodes for her podcast, mischievously placing yet another plant somewhere in the house, or making all natural soaps and hand blended teas for her wellness business. Above all, Marissa holds her faith close to her heart and hopes to bring glory to God's name in all of her works.

Reviews

[Jasmine Smallwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Edified isn't a novel I would normally read, but I'm so glad that I indulged all my time in it. The storyline and relatable characters kept me compelled from the beginning to the very end. In ways, I believe God was speaking to me as I read. I've been a follower/believer of Christ since I was a child, yet I found myself whole heartingly relating to the characters...feeling like the biggest sinner. And because Marissa Fike (with God in her corner) produced a sympathetic piece, I managed to even shed a few tears while reading (much needed!). Edified is worthy of everyone's time because it's a novel meant for everyone.

[Abby Ware · Rating 5 out of 5]

Edified speaks to you from the very first page. The relatable nature of the characters drew me in immediately. I feel as if Grace and Rae are everyone at some point in their lives. The realization of how God is working in your life is both incredible and miraculous. The spiritual development of the two girls, from beginning to end, feels incredibly real, raw, and moving. Edified is a book that will change your perspective on spiritual growth. It isn't just a book you should read; it's a book you need to read.

[Kaitrin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Edified is a beautifully heartwarming story. Right away, I felt God’s presence while I read and knew that this book is special. One thing I love about the story is that it feels like the characters are relatable. As if Grace and Rae are people I knew in college and went on this journey with them. From the opening pages to the last line, this book had me feel joy, love, excitement, and hope for where the two girls are headed. God is at the center of this book, and if you need something that will help brighten your day, I’d recommend reading it.

[Kindall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Each character feels so real and relatable. Each chapter you find yourself empathizing and relating with them so easily. It doesn’t sugar coat or glaze over any real life experiences that most authors would deem as too messy, and I think that’s what makes it so relatable. It also causes you to reflect on yourself in many ways. That aspect really reminds me of the Bible and how, as you read it, it reads you.

[Kathryn A. Calligure · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found EDIFIED to be an inspirational read that caught my interest at the very first page and held it until the very end. The characters are well-developed and easy to relate to. The scriptures that Ms. Fike uses are applicable in many circumstances and the reader comes away all the richer for reading this wonderful book.

[Julie Berg · Rating 5 out of 5]

You get pulled in from the very beginning. A lot of vivid detail with great character development. I like how relatable the book is and all of the scriptures that are referenced. I enjoyed how each chapter was told from one of the main characters point of view. Overall a wonderfully written Christian fiction story.

[Waen Yoon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this felt like a warm hug from a good friend! I loved seeing how the story was told from both Rae and Grace's perspectives, and how their friendship developed as they grew deeper in faith. The author weaved together so many relatable issues to young Christian women in such a seamless way! As I was reading (especially the chapters with Kaya), I kept thinking of girls to reach out to and just let them know I was thinking of and praying for them, which I'm so grateful to this book for.

This is the Christian fiction book you didn't know you needed!

[Victor Beach · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the book it is good Christian novel and I would suggest to any one listen to the play list it makes the reading experience so much better. I had the pleasure of having the author in my math class Vic

[Heidi Braun · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed getting to know the characters in this book and following their journeys. I love the way this book addresses real life problems with scripture without feeling like a devotional. I appreciate the way that even flawed characters are treated with grace as they grow and learn.

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a great book I found Liam is awesome

[Huston · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like Liam the best

[Cora · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely book full of relatable characters. It will make a great purchase for yourself or your friends in faith.

[Andrea Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want to read something real, read Edified.

The author depicts relatable struggles without condemnation. The story leaves the reader feeling seen, and left with tools to grow her faith.

[Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kyaya made me cry

[Butch · Rating 5 out of 5]

edified is a good book it’s fresh and new

[Jack White · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is awesome

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like grace the best

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

The way she told the story reminded me of phineas and ferb

[Zac · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book

[Britney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book great read good story

[Cristina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading wasome book

[Jos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book I love the ending

[Lady G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome book

[Stephanopoulos · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love it

[Sharon Fooshe · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is such a great introduction for those who have never developed a relationship with God or have gone astray and need to reconnect. So many Christian novels sugarcoat their characters into a perfection no one can relate to. The author actually made her characters real people struggling with real problems who discover God and his love and his mercy deapite their flaws. Such a great approach for so many people who never discover God's love because they feel self righteously judged. The characters are solid, their stories believable and you will find yourself wanting to read on to see what happens. I highly recommend this book.