Thursday 5 September 2019

For Eden's Sake - T.M. Gaouette

For Eden's Sake
T.M. Gaouette
ISBN 9781089964889
ASIN B07X13Q1G9


I have been reading books by T.M. Gaouette for seven years now. And as each new book comes out, I am eager to read it. And the excitement builds until I get my hands on it. I have read her five novels and a few short stories that she has written. Every time I read something by her, I am more impressed. And as much as I love some of her other novels this is the most powerful and moving story she has written to date! 

One of the things that I love about Gaouette’s writing is that she is a bold Christian writer, and she allows her deep faith to infuse her stories. This is not just a novel by a Catholic author, it is a Catholic story. And some might not make that distinction, but I think it is an important one. But I will be honest this was at times not an easy read. The suspense was high, and at stake was an unborn child’s life. 

Isaac was raised on a family ranch farm. But after graduating college he and his best friend have moved to the city. Isaac is working a dream job in an advertising agency. One night while out with the guys from work, he has a few too many to drink, and ends up going home with a pretty girl. After that night he has much regret and even goes to confession the next day. He attempts many times to reach out to the girl for weeks. Till one day Rebecca calls out of the blue. But her news is not what he expected, and it leaves him reeling. Isaac must find a way to forgive himself and to do the right thing. He also needs to find a way to convince Rebecca to do the same. 

They both have a lot on the line, and both have a lot to lose. Isaac at times can only pray. He has no other options left. And in that prayer, he might find the strength he needs. 

This story is written with a more mature Young Adult audience in mind. I have friends who have gone through similar on both sides. It is at times very raw. It is riveting. For those of us who are older, it might remind us of some of the mistakes we ourselves made in our youth. Mistakes we would like to help our children avoid. This is a fantastic read for young men and women. It would be excellent for a group study in the classroom, or youth group. Or even with our own children. 

My first thoughts when I finished this story was, WOW! And then I found myself wondering where Isaac and Rebecca were in a year, 2, 5, or even 10. This is a powerful story, but also written with great sensitivity. If I had to categorize this book I would say first it is Christian fiction, second it is Young adult fiction, and third it is a pro-life fiction. And 2 out of three might not be popular in our contemporary culture. But we need more stories like this. An incredibly moving read!

Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2019 Catholic Reading Plan!

Books by T.M. Gaouette:

Contributed to:
Secrets: Visible & Invisible 7 Amazing Stories - Catholic Teen Books
Gifts Visible & Invisible 8 Christmas Stories for Teens
Treasures: Visible & Invisible 8 Stories for Teens

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