Customer Reviews

Where Mercy Flows

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I was very lucky to get an advanced reading copy of this book. OMG, I felt everything that Samantha was feeling. Samantha is working through her own feelings of self-worthlessness when she returns home. The seven years that she has been gone, after running away with her high school sweetheart, have not been kind to Sam. She has lived on the edge, while trying to be a good mother to her son. She returns home, wondering if she will be accepted, and also her beautiful son, the result of a one-night stand with a man of a different race. Not only is she and her son accepted by her family, they are also cherished. However, it seems that the acceptence that Sam is seeking, comes not from her family, but from within herself. I found this to be a beautiful story of discovery and cried throughout most of the book. The emotions brought forward by this author are real and it was another book that I couldn't go to sleep without finishing.

Seven years ago teenager Samantha Dodd eloped with her boyfriend causing a strain with her mother and sister, but especially with her father, the "Judge". Over five years she had an extramarital affair that led to her giving birth to a boy, TJ. Her husband walked out on her and their marriage. Samantha was too proud to go home and face the judgment of her father until now. Ailing, lacking health insurance and afraid for TJ, Samantha returns to the home of her parents in Stillaguamish Valley, Washington.

Samantha's mom and sister welcome her and TJ with open arms. She also hits it off with childhood friend Donnie Duncan, who has always loved Samantha. However, her relationship with the Judge remains strained as she feels he judges her as a failure. When he learns that she suffers from a viral heart disease that will lead to his beloved daughter's death and danger from a stalker, the Judge takes action from the heart to stop the assailant and to learn from his friend Dr. Matt what he can do to save the life of his daughter.

This is a fabulous character driven tale in which Samantha will soon learn what true love really is. The cast is strong as each of the family members seems real and the dynamics with Samantha at the center fabulous as she sees her mom fears she will leave again; sis prays for her salvation; and dad remains in judgment. She will realize she has been judge, jury and hang-woman and must pardon herself in this superb heart-wrenching inspirational family drama.

Harriet Klausner

This book is very easy to read and enjoy. From the vivid descriptions of the beautiful landscape of Northwest Washington, the knowledgeable details of fly fishing, and the unique lives of those who make up a small rural town - you are easily pulled into the story. It is an emotional story and I found myself wiping the tears away as the story unfolded.

Once in a great while, someone leaps out of the pack called ordinary and becomes extraordinary. That is Karen Harter. Her work is so thrilling - because it is so apparently infused with truth.

You will not be sorry you spent time in the pages of WHERE MERCY FLOWS. Guaranteed!

This book was one of the best books I have read this year. A book about forgiveness, redemption, and a father's unconditional love. Hooked me in from the beginning and kept me reading non-stop until I finished it (not many books catch me in that early on). Christian themes without being preachy. Excellent story and character development. Several moments where you laughed out loud as well as moments you cried. Highly recommend for upper high school age and above. Can't recommend enough.

THE SUMMARY: After 7 years of little contact with her family, prodigal daughter Samantha comes home to her family. Accompanying her is TJ, her young son, a medical condition that will cut her down in the prime of her life, and years of sin and rebellion. There is more separating Samantha from her family than missing years however, especially between her and her father, a man she calls The Judge. Not only does she feel unloved by her father, but she has a husband who left her the day TJ was born. Will Samantha find love, forgiveness, and mercy before it's too late?

THE MESSAGE: This story presents many themes, including understanding the depths of a father's love and the power of forgiveness, mercy, and sacrifice.

THE PRESENTATION: Karen Harter's first book explores a prodigal daughter's wandering and her search for a way home. Although a powerful message, some of the scenes felt like too forced to meet a determined conclusion. I didn't fully connect with the characters or truly felt Samantha's struggles. For instance, she viewed her father as a harsh, unbending man, but I had trouble seeing him in that light.

FINAL THOUGHTS: Karen Harter's book won a Christy Award. Although good, I felt the book wrapped up too neatly and easily. I hoped the book would explore a few themes that were hinted at but the author went in a different direction. It's a good story, but I never felt myself truly rooting for the characters.

THE RECOMMENDATION: 2.5 out of 5