"An Almighty God? Get Serious!" opens the two-part book’s narrative, as Darlene depicts the unfolding of her transformational medical journey – from an unexpected brain tumor diagnosis, through the sudden halt to her exciting career plans, and to a profound re-rendering of her life ambitions. But Darlene invites her readers to witness how her most important uncertainties were systematically laid to rest as she continued to trust and worship the almighty God who carried this 25-year-old all the way through her eventful ordeal, and who sustains her still – 35 years later! In a striking juxtaposition, Karen Hanson takes her readers with her as she recalls how, at the tender age of 14, she was injected into the harsh world of rehab for adults with substance addictions. She shares how she was forced to cope with the powerful President Director – an arrogant man with a depraved way of treating young girls, and how she came to disbelieve in the God she had been instructed throughout her young life to revere. Karen's story begins with conflict and fear but ends with serenity and praise to a now palpable God…. The book ends with "Trophies of Grace"!
Lamoureux expounds on her understanding of the Bible as she draws closer to God, with a deep contemplation on “the love of God [that] calls to all of us, no matter our current mindset.” Her reflections often address commonplace life questions—such as the role gratitude plays in everyday relationships—alongside a deep dive into biblical passages, whereas Hanson veers more towards intimate recollections of her most painful, and inspiring, moments, recalling her early years as plagued by “an empty hole in my spirit that I needed to fill.” Her account of a childhood spent at the mercy of addiction, rehabilitation facilities, and sexual abuse is heartrending, but her spiritual journey empowers, bearing witness to the transformative effects of faith.
Together, Lamoureux and Hanson's stories highlight the impact and change a life can have "when God [starts] to make Himself known.” Both authors reiterate the importance of a personal relationship with God, an odyssey that, for them, started with painful experiences but transformed into pathways of healing, acceptance, and spiritual revival. Lamoureux reminds readers that God’s love is personal, writing that “The Almighty didn’t just create a universe and then step away. He’s always where you need Him,” a soothing sentiment that Christian readers will find echoed throughout this inspiring book.
Takeaway: Two powerful stories of Christian revival following painful life experiences.
Comparable Titles: Brianna Ladapo's Emerging from Darkness, Julia Walsh's For Love of the Broken Body.
Production grades
Cover: B-
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A-
Marketing copy: A-
5.0 out of 5 stars
Read this cover to cover, so very captivating and so very good!!
5.0 out of 5 stars
God loves us more than anything we can imagine!
I got my copy of this book and read “Trophies of Grace” in one sitting. I couldn’t put it down! Congratulations on your writing skills and thank you so much for sharing your story. I know everyone who meets you on your book tour will be inspired and encouraged spiritually by your awesome spirit and relationship with God. Keep writing!❤️
