Reviewed by: Katherine Hiegel, a professional writing major at Taylor University

Introduction

Title: Atonement for Emily Adams

Author: Susan R. Lawrence

Publisher: Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas

Publication Date: May 12, 2014

Format: Paperback

Length: 254 Pages

OVERVIEW

Emily Adams is wracked with guilt after accidentally hitting and killing ten-year-old Isaiah Nelson with her car. Her attempts to make up for this wrong strain her relationships, and her life increasingly falls into disarray. Meanwhile, Isaiah’s family members wrestle with their grief. Isaiah’s father, consumed with rage, files a wrongful death suit against Emily. Everyone involved struggles with trying to find closure and to seek or provide forgiveness.

Lawrence tells a richly detailed and believable, if somewhat predictable story. Some characters seem one-dimensional, and others, such as Isaiah and his grandmother, Donna, appear almost too good to be true. The plot is fairly simplistic and it strays into excessive, sappy emotion at times. However, Atonement effectively and biblically explores the difficulty and necessity of forgiveness.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5)

3 out of 5 stars

Suggested Audience

Due to some heavy content (tragic death of a child and a non-explicit rape scene), this book is most suitable for audiences aged 16 and older.

Christian Impact

The characters’ relationships (and struggles) with God and with one another reflect reality and ultimately inspire positive change. Overall, Atonement is solid, wholesome Christian fiction.

Other Notes

Additional Information: It is worth mentioning that, according to the author’s note, all author’s royalties from sales of this novel go to Pour International, a charity.

Katherine Hiegel is a professional writing major at Taylor University

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