Sometimes we’re allowed to glimpse the beauty within the brokenness . . .Savannah Barrington has always found solace at her parents’ lake house in the Berkshires, and it’s the place that she runs to when her husband of over twenty years leaves her. Though her world is shaken, and the future uncertain, she finds hope through an old woman’s wisdom, a little girl’s laughter, and a man who’s willing … laughter, and a man who’s willing to risk his own heart to prove to Savannah that she is worthy of love.
But soon Savannah is given a challenge she can’t run away from: Forgiving the unforgivable. Amidst the ancient gardens and musty bookstores of the small town she’s sought refuge in, she must reconcile with the grief that haunts her, the God pursuing her, and the wounds of the past that might be healed after all.
Where Hope Begins is the story of grace in the midst of brokenness, pointing us to the miracles that await when we look beyond our own expectations.
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One of the best stories I have read lately. A variety of emotions was felt while reading this one. Sadness, heartbreak, fear and then, hope, faith and love. The characters and the story line are so well written that I felt as if I was right there experiencing everything. I wanted to reach out and hug the main characters. A wonderful read. I received a copy of this book from the author and NetGalley. No review was required. This is my honest personal opinion of the story.
Catherine West tackles some very serious issues in this book that will send readers on an emotional roller coaster. This is a story of a family dealing with the fallout after tragedy sends the family spiraling into a series of bad decisions and brokenness. But it is also a story of love, grace, forgiveness and hope. Mostly the hope that new beginnings can bring. While the story occasionally switched to other characters, it was told mostly from Savannah’s point of view. As she dealt with grief, anger and betrayal I found myself pulled into her story. But it was when she was able to lay aside blame, learning to forgive and trust that I found the tears flowing. Don’t let the threat of tears deter you from reading this book. There are so many insights into the many relationships we share in life as a lover, spouse, parent and child that the reader will ponder long after the last page was read.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
A book with realistic characters , a true-to-life story, and the gritty, difficult emotions and circumstances of life that real people face every day. Several of the circumstances in this book are ones I’ve known of personally. I suppose I should warn you…most needed a few tissues for this read.
Life can be hard, but outside of ourselves and our raw emotions that try to overtake us, there IS hope!
Life can be messy, difficult, and painful, and this book opens up all those wounds in a way only Catherine West can. The plot is incredibly well done, the characters are empathetic and seem so real and accessible, and the novel itself will touch your heart. I think once again it’s the child in the story that I love the most! I always fall for the child…that story in amongst the rest is what touched me the most. I’m sure you, dear reader, will find your own gem in amongst each character or story!
Don’t miss the authors explanation behind the novel either!
“You’re seeing everything we don’t deserve, but somehow get. It’s the miracle of faith. Grace. And hope.”
I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I can’t possibly do this book justice. It’s full of grief, sadness, joy, hope, and even a bit of humor. The story is centered around Savannah Barrington and her journey to find healing after her husband leaves her. As she stays in her parents’ house in the Berkshires and gets to know her neighbors, she examines her life over the past twenty-four years. We see the beauty of young love, the joys of marriage starting, the busyness of raising children, and the tragedy that sometimes strikes when we least expect it. We also get to see Savannah learn to heal and navigate her new life in the best way possible. Savannah’s emotions are so real, so relatable, that she is my favorite character in the book. Sometimes she copes so well, and other times she just doesn’t want to deal with anything. I find that I’m like that at times, but aren’t we all? Savannah’s faith is tested to its limits, and she has to learn to find the peace that can only come from listening to God’s plan for us. His plan for the Barrington family is absolutely beautiful, and I cheered and cried along with them. Hands down, this is Catherine West’s best book yet!
***I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions in this review are my own.
4.5 stars
“My husband is leaving me.”
The impact is devastating. Savannah Barrington has shared most of her life with a man whom has become a virtual stranger, and now he is calling it quits. The lure of a younger, more vibrant companion has stolen their joy; or at least that’s what Savannah assumes has happened. In reality, their relationship has been fractured for years following the tragic death of their daughter, and neither of them has the energy to fight through the pain any longer.
Moving to her parents’ lake home in the Berkshires provides Savannah with much needed solace, but it is accompanied by a prevailing loneliness that invades her every decision, until she happens upon unexpected companionship of her own. Is it possible that such a painful ending has birthed a new beginning, or is this just another mirage of happiness that will leave Savannah emptier than before? A much larger question arises; can Savannah truly move forward until she forgives what lies behind, and in doing so, discover the gift of second chances. That’s precisely “where hope begins”.
The author has written a powerful, emotional, authentic expose on human brokenness, its far-reaching tentacles spreading like cancer; though we are not left without hope. And hope does not disappoint. . .for it’s “everything we don’t deserve, but somehow get. It’s the miracle of faith”.
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher. The opinions stated are entirely my own.
Where Hope Begins” is about a family that from the outside looks perfect, but yet imperfect once the reader steps inside the book. Are we not imperfect, wanting to be more Christ-like? That is if we have Jesus.
The author tackles serious real life issues that happens to couples and people everyday that tug at your emotions and heart. A family dealing with brokenness, a domino affect of a family quickly spiraling out of control from a series of poor decisions and fallout after a tragedy that affects everyone. But……. it is also a story of mercy, love, forgiveness, will challenge your faith and hope. “Where Hope Begins,” is told from Savannah’s point of view and how she handled anger, betrayal and grief. As she dealt with these emotions, I found myself getting pulled into her story. My heart ached for Savannah, the tears flowed.
Make sure you have tissues handy, you will cry, laugh and your heart will be touched. You will feel the raw emotions of each character. I felt like I was having coffee and sitting across the table from Savannah as she tried to make sense of the situation that she was faced with. I highly recommend this book.
Romans 8:28 28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
“I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and was under no obligation to pust a review. All opinions in this review are my own.”
#womensfiction #mustread #releasestomorrow #catherinewest
I’d been warned about this book! I knew I’d need to stock up on tissues and refrain from reading it in public for fear of ugly crying. I’d read some of Catherine West’s stories before, so I knew I’d be in for a rip-roaring emotional roller coaster ride. I also knew that it would be worth it all in the end, because nobody writes gritty, realistic, emotional, heart-wrenching, hope-filled books like Catherine West does. Her beautiful writing style and gripping story lines have made her a favorite author of mine.
From the masterfully-crafted, multi-layered characters to the poignant, touching message of forgiveness, healing, and hope, this is a reading adventure I won’t soon forget. I could actually feel Savannah’s angst and sorrow and apprehension. Clarice and Maysie were delightful and added a fun flavor to the tale. Kevin, whose actions caused the upheaval in the story, created significant confusion in my feelings toward him. And Brock! . . . well, just . . . Brock! You’ll have to read the story to find out about him! This book is headed for my keeper shelf and will definitely be one of my favorite reads of the year. If you enjoy realistic, clean Christian fiction, do yourself a favor and read this book. You won’t regret it. Just remember to keep the tissues handy.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson/NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A note before I begin this review: The storyline of this book includes the accidental death of a child; adultery; impending divorce; depression; and attempted suicide. All of these topics are written about in an appropriate way and with appropriate language, but I wanted you to be aware of this before you begin the book. Because of the seriousness of these subjects, I’d classified this book for adult readers.
It’s hard to write a review about this book because it’s so emotional but so very well-written.
This novel, although it deals with the serious subjects I listed above, is one that has a light of hope and forgiveness all throughout the storyline. Parts of it are heartbreaking. Following this family through the consequences of selfish actions and disobeying God is a roller coaster ride of emotions. The characters are quite true-to-life. There’s nothing sugarcoated here. But it also illustrates so accurately the way that God constantly and patiently works through our lives to bring us back to Him. Through all the brokenness, it’s a beautiful story. When you get to the ending, have tissues ready because it will make you cry. (And since I don’t cry easily, that’s quite a statement.)
There’s a quote that I love from towards the end of the story: “You’re seeing everything we don’t deserve, but somehow get. It’s the miracle of faith. Grace. And hope. Isn’t it glorious?” Doesn’t that describe all of our lives as we follow Christ? I was reminded to extend His grace towards others, especially those who are struggling.
At the end of the book, all I could say was “wow”. And cry some more.
Just read it. You’ll see what I mean.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review. I was not required to give a positive review. This is my honest opinion about this book.
Catherine West writes an emotionally stirring story with lessons for us all. Her story of a family in crisis is powerful and yet realistic. Although these unique characters face very difficult circumstances, beauty is found in unexpected places. This book will encourage readers that restoration is possible and is worth fighting for from the beginning. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
It has taken me awhile to write this review. It was not because I didn’t know what to think. It was because there were so many feelings when I finished this book. I am not someone that cries. If I tear up in a book, it means that it deeply touched me. This book was one that deeply touched my soul.
I know many people that avoid books that might make them feel or deal with pain. Please don’t avoid this book. The well written prose from this amazing author, will not only cause you to dig deep, but I would also hope you would find yourself changed by it. She is one of my favorites and I never miss a book written by her.
Grief. It is a tough topic. It is not one we ever want to talk about, and may not want to read about. Sometimes people might avoid a book that talks about it, because they are afraid they will relate to it. Again, please don’t do that with this book. This book is filled with hope, healing and just a passion for discovering life after loss that I believe it will be a read that most people will not only enjoy, but benefit from. I loved the greenhouse in the book and the quirky secondary characters just warmed my heart.
I can’t wait for her next book and this one is not even quite released yet. I obtained this book from NetGalley and the opinions contained herein are my own. I am purchasing a copy of my own.
You can preorder this book from Amazon or get from your local book seller and I would highly encourage you to.
Instead of five stars I want to give this ten hearts . You will run a gamut of emotions while reading this and definitely need tissues. It deals will hard subjects that need to be addressed and talked openly about and this would be perfect for a book club discussion. It also shows there is hope no matter how dark our days. I have to say I was torn in how I wanted the outcome to be, because I grew to love each character in a different way…flaws and all. The writing is flawless and it moves like the tempo of your favorite melody. I feel it would make a wonderful movie as it resonates with so many of us who have faced these issues in our own lives. God gives beauty for ashes and this is a perfect example of that. I could go on and on, but just pick up a copy and be taken away into a story that draws you in and won’t let go even after you read the final page. The truths will stick with you and maybe have you examine how you react to situations. Definitely a must read…more than once. A keeper.
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.
Oh my goodness! This one really touched a lot of sensitive issues in my life. As the victim of a husband who committed adultery, this one really resonated with me. I could identify with so many of the feelings the wife and children were experiencing. And the loss this family endured was also something I have seen close up with my best friend being killed by a drunk driver.
I had no idea when I opened this book and started on the journey with Savannah, Maysie, Brock, Kevin…that it would be an emotional investment. But it was worth every tear I shed and tissue I used! Catherine West does a wonderful job of addressing the many serious issues that are dealt with in the pages of this novel. She handles them with grace and caring and does not minimize the tragedies they each cause in the characters’ lives.
While my marriage didn’t resolve in the same way as Savannah’s, I know that God’s love and grace are wrapped around me just as those in this book experienced. Catherine West manages to touch your heart and soul with the redemptive love God shares with each of us. She takes life experiences and brings them to light in a moving and touching manner. I appreciate her ability to give these situations the depth of seriousness they deserve while allowing the reader to see how God can work through the good, the bad, and the ugly. His love is where hope begins.
I appreciate NetGalley for the opportunity to read an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
This was a book I never wanted to end, and yet when it did, I sighed at the perfection of it all. It’s rare I say that about a book – and I love books. I often comment on how I enjoy the plot, character development, and message of other books. I comment on how I anticipate more releases by the certain authors. And I comment on how certain themes challenge me. But this book was different. This one reached into my heart and soul in such a way that even now, days after finishing the last page, I feel the weight of the message. This was not a light read, as it was brimming with the intensity of gut wrenching issues such as the death of an innocent child, suicide, and adultery. And yet I read it faster than I’ve read any other book in a long time. Though I had to stop several times to process, find another kleenex, and examine my own heart, I could not put this book down. I even lent it to my early-to-bed father, who actually stayed up late because he couldn’t stop reading either! What’s exceptional here, is that this book is not gripping because of the action or suspense that normally drives an all night read. It’s gripping because it’s true, it’s life, and it’s not sugar coated. It’s gripping because I see myself in the pages. I wasn’t just reading a story about some random person and her struggles – I was reading about me. But please don’t think this book was immersed in darkness and depression. On the contrary. For although the reality of life can be bleak, West reminds us that brokenness leads to beauty, and hope can still breath life into what seems dead.
Please read this book. It is breathtaking, painful, beautiful, and life giving all rolled into one. But come prepared with kleenex!
I don’t really know where to begin to review this book. All about a family that looks perfect from the outside but oh so imperfect. But are we not all imperfect, striving to be more Christ-like? That is if we are Christians.
This book is so emotional that you will laugh, smile, and cry so get ready for your heart to be touched. The author takes real and hard situations that happens to people and couples all the time and digs deep into their hearts and lets us feel the emotions of each character. Redemption for a soul that’s made a mess of their life may not be pretty at first, but sweet.
The writing was wonderful and the characters so real I felt like I knew their hearts and that I was their best friend. I was just so invested in these people!
I recommend this book to people that likes to read about real life and gritty situations well written. Don’t miss this one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book on behalf of the author and Harper Collins Christian Publishing. All opinions are my own.
I’m reading Where Hope Begins by Catherine West. The only reason I put it down last night: I fell asleep recovering from surgery and couldn’t hold the kindle any longer! Absolutely engaging and heart tugging pain and emotional rollercoaster of a story! Wow! The artistry and craft of writing fiction by Catherine West resembles real life heartbreaking situations. This is one of my all-time favorite authors. Her writing provokes soul contemplation, wrestles with issues of sin and forgiveness, and most importantly, inspires hope. Other reviewers write about the issues the author presents specific to this novel, but I am most enamored with the brilliant method she uses to plunge the reader into the story—any story. You will be changed from within and made to see the world as God sees. Enjoy the immersive experience of storytelling at its finest. Thank you for such a beautiful experience.
This book is filled with every emotion possible. Sadness and grief; hope and joy; the possibility of never again and the promise of forever more. I’m not sure why this is my first Catherine West book but it certainly won’t be my last. She grabbed my attention with the first sentence ‘My husband is leaving me’ and she never let it go. Yes, there are some tough subjects in Where Hope Begins: a child’s death, a mother’s attempt at suicide, and a husband’s extra-marital affair. The siblings of the young girl who died are also victims to the grief that engulfs this family and I sometimes wondered how this could possibly end well.
I have personally seen how the death of a child can affect a marriage and a family and the outcomes were totally different. One couple drifted apart as they grieved separately and their family unit didn’t survive and the other couple drew strength from each other and their marriage grew even stronger! West credits God as giving her this story and I believe this is true. Where Hope Begins is a wonderful testament to the power of hope and love and the necessity of trusting God’s plan for your life. You may also be convinced that angels are always among us and you will definitely need the tissues!
This is Christian fiction and even though adultery is suggested, it is never explicit. We’re shown that life can get complicated and messy but reminded that forgiveness and grace are what makes us Christians.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from JustRead Tours but a positve review was not required.
Thank you to JustRead Publicity Tours and Catherine West for matching me with this book to review. I received this award-winning book as a gift and a positive review was not required.
Savannah Barrington seeks solace at her parents’ lakes house when she and her husband of 20 years separate. But, it’s not just the separation haunting her – it’s something else – something deeper.
Savannah is given a challenge that she can’t run away from: forgiving the unforgiveable. Amidst the ancient gardens and musty bookstores of the small town she’s sought refuge in, she must reconcile with the grief that haunts her, the God pursuing her, and the wounds of the past that might be healed after all.
This was the first novel I’ve read by West and definitely not what I expected. It is definitely a haunting, challenging, and beautiful read. It is described as a “story of grace in the midst of brokenness”. West does a wonderful job of presenting the story in an engaging and compelling manner. It is told from multiple POVs (points of view) – Brock, Savannah, and Zoe.
West provides an honest and in-depth look at the loss of a child, a mother’s grief, the grieving process of the family, and devastation from a divorce. West doesn’t wave a magical wand of faith to erase the bad events or make it all better. But, the author – through the characters – takes us through a journey to self-discovery, self-forgiveness, and self-acceptance.
The author bravely tackles the loss of a child, suicide, and divorce with grace and poetry while letting us know that sometimes our guardian angels watch over us and bring us all together for a reason.
This book is the winner of the 2019 ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) Carol Award for Contemporary Fiction, along with the 2019 Faith, Hope and Love Reader’s Choice Award for women’s fiction.
When I first noticed, “Where Hope Begins,” by Catherine West some months ago, I felt impressed that it was one I should read. Call it divine intervention or a God nudge, it was a spiritual leading. I am so grateful I followed that leading, because this book was meant for me. Truth is, I am not really a romantic genre reader, but enjoy reading more about complex life situations.
Although there is plenty of romance in, “Where Hope Begins” it also tackles some tough issues in such a brilliantly-written, hopeful, and even humorous way at times. I needed this book, since I can struggle to believe in second chances for myself, even though I often write or speak about them, and truly believe in second chances for others.
It’s a smashing success of being everything a book should be. Its spirituality is a living breathing part of some of the characters, and never forced or added in for effect. I am over the moon for this book, can you tell? If you’ve lost someone you loved more than your own life, it might even renew your hope that tomorrow really could be better. Thank you for the gift of writing it, Catherine West.Catherine West A gazillion stars, okay 5 plus.
Really loved this book. I ran the gamut of emotions from anger against the main character’s cheating husband to tears at the novel’s climax. The bittersweet twist left goosebumps. It’s a page-turner you won’t want to put down.