House of Mercy

GIVEAWAY

HEALY, ERIN
HOUSE OF MERCY

When Beth’s world falls apart, can she ever be whole again?


Beth has a gift of healing—which is why she wants to become a vet and help her family run their fifth-generation cattle ranch. Her father’s dream of helping men in trouble and giving them a second chance is her dream too. But it only takes one foolish decision for Beth to destroy it all.

Beth scrambles to redeem her mistake, pleading with God for help, even as a mystery complicates her life. The repercussions grow more unbearable—a lawsuit, a death, a divided family, and the looming loss of everything she cares about. Beth’s only hope is to find the grandfather she never knew and beg for his help. Confused, grieving, and determined to make amends, she embarks on a horseback journey across the mountains, guided by a wild, unpredictable wolf who may or may not be real.

Set in the stunningly rugged terrain of Southern Colorado, House of Mercy follows Beth through the valley of the shadow of death into the unfathomable miracles of God’s goodness and mercy.

My Review:

I was a reluctant reader when I started this book...in fact I confess that I put it down twice and read something else before picking it up again. Now, that's not because the writing was terrible or the characters shallow or anything technical like that. It's because Beth does something really, really, really...sigh...I hate to use the word but...stupid...in the very first chapter and I cringed every time I delved in. Of course the whole book is about mercy and Beth's journey towards finding it and extending it but still...it was a tough start for this reader who has a sensitive spot for animals...and fictional heroines...and well, my poor little heart just about leapt out of my body and onto the page and left me gasping for my literary equilibrium. :-)

However, House of Mercy was so intriguing and Healy writes so well that she kept luring me back and I started reading with hesitant little spurts which quickly stretched into marathons as I fairly tripped over the words on each page in my haste to get to the end...which came all too quickly for my liking. (And yes I know that makes me a contrary reader!)

I'm not even sure how to categorize this book. Deeply spiritual for sure, but somewhat fantastical -- dare I say mystical -- as well. The beginning emotional punch spirals tighter and tighter until scene after scene exploded in my mind leaving a myriad of impressions. Incredible plot twists, real (and flawed) characters and complex relationships have left a lasting impression. A satisfying, stirring read that has renewed my hope in mercy.

Giveaway Opportunity:

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of House of Mercy, please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday August 19 2012. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!