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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Yikes I’m glad the rape scene was kept non-explicit – those things are difficult enough to read as it is :/