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SHADES OF GRAY - Jacquelin Thomas Steeple Hill/Single Title January 2006 |
SYNOPSIS: Although married for 20 years, Sela Barnes is convinced that having an African-American daughter-in-law has never been acceptable to her husband's parents. However, when tragedy strikes, Sela turns to God for the first time and gains a new perspective.
INSPIRATIONAL FICTION: |4+| Tricia-Ann Blades
REVIEW: Jacqueline Thomas has not disappointed. She has
written a riveting novel in Shades of Gray! In this emotionally charged
masterpiece, the themes of bereavement, loneliness, family and the
importance of a personal relationship with God are explored. Each
person’s healing process is different and when one loses a loved one,
they must grieve, for it is through that grieving salvation is wrought.
Sela never thought she would be without Rodney. From the moment they met
to the present there were irrevocably linked. He was the air that she
breathed. It was his strength that she depended on, to take her through
the many trials faced in life and all too soon it was gone leaving Sela
to float into the twilight. Here she missed what she believed was her
life’s very essence. Interestingly enough however, Sela was able to heal
from her brokenness through Rodney. Through his death, she began to know
him in a different way through his writings. It was these writings that
propelled her in the direction of an even greater Lover. Soon she
recognized that God was her Maker, Redeemer, Sustainer and Friend. It
was through Him that she was able to break the bars of iron that had
surrounded her for the duration of her marriage. What sweet relief to
finally know peace!
“There are some people who only hear what they want to hear. It is
extremely hard on people who are trying to communicate with them.” This
statement rings true for the senior Barneses within the family. The
author has woven interesting character sketches in this pair, providing
a direct contrast to the others within the novel. It is because of these
two that the battle must be fought and is won. The author also provides
a contrast in bereavement. Here the process of healing is somewhat
hindered by the desire to take hold of all that was Rodney’s instead of
gaining that peace through what was left behind.
It is said a little child shall lead them. Ms. Thomas aptly uses the
children of the novel to provide the link that brings the family
together. Family and the love of God is important in times of
bereavement. Both provide the solid foundation that one needs in order
to climb the mountain from the tear-streaked valley.
Excellently written! Emotionally riveting! A must read!
reviewer@romanceincolor.com |25th May 2006