I submitted my book, “A Quest to discover the essense of faith” to be reviewed by a professional at “Publisher Weekly.” The mission of BookLife Reviews is to support indie authors and publishers through one of the most challenging parts of self-publishing. The selected reviewer typically is an expert in the genre or field of the book submitted for review. A BookLife Review will reflect the honest opinion of the professional reviewer who will read the book cover to cover and provide a serious, considered assessment of the book’s high points as well as places where it could be improved. Most reviews will have a balanced mix of praise and constructive criticism.

I recently received a copy of the review and was pleasantly surprised by the depth of the review and that the reader seemed to capture the heart of the story. The following is a copy of the actual review:

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In this touching memoir debut, VanPatten shares her journey to connecting to God, understanding the meaning of having faith, and the trials and tribulations that shaped her relationship with a higher power. Growing up in the Greek Orthodox Church, she was always exposed to God, the Virgin Mary, and the Bible, but VanPatten transparently recounts how, as she faced life’s challenges, she grew into it all more deeply and personally, learning to trust in the presence and will of God all around her through connections with nature, those she loves, and everyday experiences. Through dealing with her husband’s depression and addiction, her father’s diagnosis with prostate cancer, and her struggles with conceiving a child, VanPatten recounts always turning to prayer and her faith to get her through the darkest days of her life.

VanPatten holds nothing back in this raw and honest account of her lifelong relationship with God. “Faith is trusting that no matter what happens in life for good or for bad, God will provide,” she writes. Through such emotive storytelling, she delves into the ways her faith and belief in God pulled her through hard times, including the end of a marriage and the enduring of loss. She is passionate in her conviction that there is a purpose behind the many ups and downs one faces, even though that purpose may not be clear in the moment. That certainty, though, is hard-won, and VanPatten touchingly explores how even a believer can face doubts.

Through inspirational prose and a constant positive outlook even when frankly describing dark moments, VanPatten’s story shines a light in the darkness of doubt and despair and highlights how the struggle can aid in making believers stronger than they thought possible. Centering on familial relationships, life milestones, and spiritual connections, A Quest to Discover the Essence of Faith is a testament to finding blessings and hope in each new day and circumstance.

Takeaway: An inspirational memoir about exploring one’s faith and understanding God’s will

Comparable Titles: Becka L. Jones’s Meant To Be, Anna Gazmarian’s Doubt.

Production grades
Cover: B
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: B
Marketing copy: A

Print Date: 07/22/2024