Sweet Mercy

I knew I wanted to be a writer from the time I tapped out my first stories on my grandfather's old manual typewriter in the summer of 1973. I studied English and theology in college and later went on to earn my master's degree in journalism from Wheaton College Graduate School. I worked as a writer and editor for Decision magazine from 1987-1992, when I left to pursue fiction writing fulltime. I find great satisfaction in my work, and I especially enjoy hearing from my readers. In addition to writing, I also teach at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference, and online through the Christian Writers Guild.
In answer to the question, "What are you trying to do through your writing?", Ann has this response:  "Tell the truth.  I'm trying to tell the truth not as I might perceive it, but as the Bible reveals it. Fiction - telling a story that isn't true - is an excellent vehicle for talking about what IS true...There is an Absolute and His name is Jesus."

You can connect with Ann and learn more about her books at her website found HERE.

When Eve Marryat's father is laid off from the Ford Motor Company in 1931, he is forced to support his family by leaving St. Paul, Minnesota, and moving back to his Ohio roots.  Eve's uncle Cyrus has invited the family to live and work at his Marryat Island Ballroom and Lodge.

Eve can't wait to leave St. Paul, a notorious haven for gangsters.  At seventeen, she considers her family to be "good people," not lawbreakers like so many i n her neighborhood.  Thrilled to be moving to a "safe haven," Eve soon forms an unlikely friendship with a strange young man named Link, blissfully unaware that her uncle's lodge is anything but what it seems.

When the reality of her situation finally becomes clear, Eve is faced with a dilemma.  Does she dare risk everything by exposing the man whose love an generosity is keeping her family from ruin?  And when things turn dangerous, can she trust Link in spite of appearances?

My Thoughts:

I have been blessed to discover Ms Tatlock's writing.  The first book I read by her was Traveler's Rest.  Her most recent book, Sweet Mercy, was not a disappointment and has made me a bigger fan of her writing.

Sweet Mercy is set in the Great Depression era and in the time of Prohibition.  Tatlock's character development is superb!  She relays a wealth of information and description in few words.  While weaving in a bit of mystery, Tatlock's story of Eve is one of hard decisions, heartbreak, and spiritual transformation.  The ending is surprising.  Told as a tender conversation between a grandmother and her grandson, you won't want to miss this multi-layered coming of age drama.

*I received a complimentary copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for this review.

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Happy Reading,

Jennifer