This book is a clear contrast to Ms. Lewis’
“Sarah” series. Whereas the stories about Sarah, the dyslexic angel, are funny
and light-hearted, though with deeper meaning, Mattie’s Choice is a totally
different direction. Mattie’s Choice is a historical novel that takes
the reader back to the early 1900s, with vivid descriptions of life in rural
Osage County, Oklahoma, poverty, family pride, misinterpretation of the
Scriptures, and domestic abuse (verbal and physical) all too commonplace then
and is still prevalent today. There are many lessons to be learned from
the book—how a seemingly innocent choice can be life-changing, how to identify
potential signs of domestic violence, how much jealousy is too much, how to
sort through options, and how to be a survivor with God’s help and guidance.--Joy
Reading Mattie's story with a modern mind is
difficult, mainly because I found myself just wanting her to leave her abusive
husband to protect herself and her children. But then I remembered this wasn't
a story set in modern times, but a story from the past for a modern audience.
That perspective changes things dramatically. When a book has me thinking about
it the next day (long after I've put it down), I'd say the author has done
something right. --Kim
Grab a box of tissues and settle in for a sweet
story of strength, commitment, and sisterhood. I loved how Mattie's and Ella's
stories intersected and contrasted. As their lives unfolded, their choices
drove an emotion-packed story that kept me captivated from start to finish.
Wonderful story, beautifully told, with a lasting lesson of compassion for all
of us. Don't miss this one! --Carlene