Sunday, July 22, 2018

Review of "When Through Deep Waters" by Rachelle Dekker

A blending of the seen and unseen, this latest novel from author Rachelle Dekker follows a season in the life of young mom, Alicen McCaffrey. Fresh on the heels of a tragedy, Alicen is sure she cannot move forward and begins to suspect she will never be whole again. Is her grief simply too much for anyone to bear? Is her mind fracturing? To say she is fully overwhelmed and at a crucial breaking point would be an understatement.

Returning to the place she felt safest and most loved as a child seems to help initially, combined with the support and love of a childhood friend. However, Alicen soon begins to hear voices and "see" people that no one else can see. Unsure of who can be trusted, and certain she cannot trust herself (or her own mind), Alicen makes the difficult decision to accept the treatment the doctors prescribe. The substory from the supporting cast is revealed slowly, and the author's description of varying layers of both mental illness and the spiritual realm ring true - and are also heartbreaking to read.

I found it a challenge to provide a reasonable summary of this book; there are many layers and explaining most anything about the story almost feels like a spoiler; but, what I can say is that this is definitely a worthwhile read. Well written with compelling characters, relatable grief and distress, and a mystery - all make for an interesting book.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.