From the Dead by John Herrick
A preacher's son, a father in hiding, a guilty heart filled with secrets: When Jesse Barlow escaped to Hollywood, he hungered for fame--but eleven years of failure result in a drug-induced suicide attempt. Revived at death's doorstep, Jesse returns to his Ohio hometown to make amends with his preacher father, a former love, and Jesse's own secret son. But Jesse's renewed commitment becomes a baptism by fire when his son's advanced illness calls for a sacrifice--one that could cost Jesse the very life he regained. A story of mercy, hope, and second chances, From The Dead captures the human spirit with tragedy and joy.
Book picture and link from The Book Depository and teaser from Goodreads
Published in US: Aug 31 2010
**My rating: 4/5**
*My review*
From the Dead is a story of sacrifice and second chances. It is beautifully written, emotional, and well paced.
It begins pretty rough, Jesse, the main character is in a dead-end relationship, unable to get a job, with a cloud of depression hanging over him. There is cursing, drinking and drug use in the beginning, but if you stick with the story you realize that it is not without cause.
He goes back to his hometown to get a fresh start and reconnects with his dad and realizes that he has a son he never knew about. I felt many emotions with Jesse as he gets to know his son, comes to terms with his minister father and the life he grew up with, and faces a medical problem of his own.
The title is very appropriate for many reasons- his attempt to end his life, his reconnection with Christianity, and his sacrifice for his son. This is a spiritual journey interweaved in the story, but to me it never came across as preachy- just Jesse's personal battles, and his admiration of his father's life work- his church. His dad, Chuck and his sister Eden, are good examples of what Christians should look like and how they should act. They are the real thing and not hypocrites. They are not perfect by any means, but their love reigns.
Even if you are not a religious person- don't pass over this story! It is touching, emotional and powerful!
Thanks for the review Brandi!I think I would definitely add this to my TBR even though I am not a religious person at all.It reminds me of Home by Marillyne Robinson which is one of the best books I have ever read ,even though religion plays a major part in it.
ReplyDeleteGreat review, Brandi! It sounds very inspiring.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a very interesting read. Thanks for posting Brandi!
ReplyDeleteI'm going to be reviewing this book sometime next week... Trying to get through my TBR pile to read it, though! :) I'm glad you enjoyed it.
ReplyDeleteI'm a very religious person, so this definitely appeals to me! Great review, Brandi! :)
ReplyDeleteThis definitely sounds intense and emotional and I always enjoy those reads because they stay with me for days and weeks after I've read them. Thanks for this review, I wasn't familiar with this book!
ReplyDeleteI've read some really great Christian fiction books in the past, and while this may not be considered part of the genre, it sounds like something I'd enjoy. Thanks for the review :D
ReplyDeleteI just received my own review copy today in the mail from the author. I can't wait to read it! You're the first blogger I've seen who's reviewed it and I'm happy that it's getting positive ratings. I was hooked on the first 3 chapters available for preview on his site. :-)
ReplyDeleteI really liked it. Seemed pretty on point to the lives of those working in the lower rungs in Hollywood. Just heard the author on blog radio last week.
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