Book Review: Who I Am With You - Robin Lee Hatcher

A few days ago, I looked at all the books on my bookshelf that have not been read, and then I opened my Google Books app, followed by my Kobo app, followed by my Amazon app, and thought, as I browsed the hundreds of unread titles available to me, that I just didn't have anything to read.

For a non-reader, I'm sure this sounds absurd - hundreds of titles, but nothing to read?  How can that be?  It's much like a woman with a walk-in closet full of amazing clothes and shoes who just can't find the right outfit.  Or my kids after we've done groceries and have a fridge full of food who can't quite find something to eat.


So I joined NetGalley as an attempt to prevent any droughts in my reading choices.  I requested a fine number of books, and much to my surprise was awarded the privilege of reading more than I expected within the first 24 hours.  Now I feel pressure... must read the books.  Must do them justice.



The first title I chose to read was Robin Lee Hatcher's novel, Who I Am With You, the first title in the Legacy of Faith series, published December 11, 2018.  It's a brand-spankin'-new title.   I'm glad I put it on the list.


For those not familiar with Ms. Hatcher, she is a best-selling, award-winning author of over 75 books, well known for her Christian fiction and winner of the much coveted RITA award.  In other words, the lady has talent.


I will preface the review I left on Goodreads (copied below) by mentioning that I often find Christian fiction can be trite, dry, or patronizing.  I didn't find any of that with this book.  There was a great flow, flawed characters, and faith that was tested but prevailed.  It works for me.


This is my official review of the novel:


"I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.


I have read a few of Ms. Hatcher's novels through the years and they never fail to disappoint. Who I Am With You was easy to read, a bit slow to start, but sweet and gentle in its storytelling. 


I quite enjoyed the glimpses of the family patriarch's story intertwined into the present, and the idea of a family Bible being passed down through the generations was appreciated. (It makes me wonder who has my Oma's well-worn copy, which she read daily without fail.)

With elements of human frailty, loss, heartache, faith, hope, forgiveness, and yes, romance, this title was a pleasant way to pass a Sunday afternoon. The characters could perhaps have been developed a little more fully for a deeper reading experience, but overall I enjoyed the book and the embedded theme of God's faithfulness throughout generations. I will be adding the next title to my TBR pile and look forward to discovering more about the Henning family."

Happy reading, my friends - I hope your bookshelves are overflowing with remarkable titles!  If you happen to pick up a copy of this one, be sure to share your thoughts below.

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