Books like Song of Mercy, written by authors like Brenda S. Anderson, are why Christian fiction exists. We strive to weave Biblical truth with the art of story to create books that both entertain and edify. And, boy, does Brenda S. Anderson nail it in this book.
In this story, viral vlogger Stephenie is determined to live out her philosophy and be “Bold and Sassi” (single and standing strong and independent). Badly hurt by a former boyfriend, Stephenie has shed her shy and insecure persona along with her family’s faith. But the college dropout’s brash, carefree lifestyle masks her secret emptiness and pain.
We also meet Kyle. This music pastor’s life is a mess. His live-in girlfriend has dumped him and is taking their little girl to move in with her new fiance. Yes, you read that right: the pastor was living in sin. However, Kyle has already begun to confront his lifestyle. He’s working to rebuild his fractured relationships, both with his once-estranged father and with the God whose standards he’s failed for so long.
Things go badly wrong when Stephenie, thinking she’s being a bold whistleblower, accuses Kyle’s father of being a pervert and exposes him on her vlog. Her allegations go viral, shattering the man’s life. Kyle wants Stephenie to take back her accusations, and we discover that these two have an ugly history.
I won’t reveal any more details, but this wonderfully written story engages with issues right at the heart of contemporary Christianity, when even within the church, “politically correct” seems more important than “Biblically correct,” as Brenda puts it. Kyle and Stephenie’s journey to forgiveness and love kept me turning the pages late into the night. My only wish was that there had been a bit more at the end.
I feel so blessed to have read this book. I not only enjoyed it as a reader, but as a writer, it’s inspired me to tell stories that matter.
Song of Mercy is on sale for 99 cents for a limited time. Grab it before the price goes back up!