A Time To Embrace is a story about family, faith, and forgiveness. John and Abby are a long-time married couple who have recently reconciled after being on the brink of divorce. Their rekindled relationship is strong, as is their relationship with their three children. John is a high school football coach and teacher who at the start of the book is being met with a difficult season and a complicated backlash from parents.
An accident involving both John and two of his students suddenly and violently changes everything, and forces them all to draw on their faith and their strength as they navigate through the resulting aftermath.
This was a touching book, and a quick read. The characters were strong and likeable, especially John, and the message was inspiring. My only real complaints are 1) some unnecessary and confusing subplots (for example, a son with a porn addiction. It was introduced, then quickly dropped, and really added nothing to the story) and 2) the miraculous and neatly tied up ending. I understand what the author was trying to do - demonstrate the power of prayer - and it was evident in the way everything unfolded. But prayers don't always turn out the way we want them to, as we aren't the ones in control. I felt that the message could have been even more powerful if she'd gone in another direction, and shown the characters' acceptance of a different outcome.
It was still overall a good book and an inspirational story, especially for anyone struggling with their faith.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
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