JDCMustReadBooks

By Heather Gudenkauf 

ISBN-13: 9780778316336
Publisher: Harlequin
Publication date: 6/24/2014
Pages: 320
Format: Other
My Rating: 5 Stars

A special thank you to Harlequin MIRA and NetGalley, for an ARC of this remarkable book, in exchange for an honest review.

Heather Gudenkauf's LITTLE MERCIES is Totally Amazing! A book you will want to devour; however, you find yourself savoring every minute of this intense, and heartfelt story!

A social worker finds herself living her own nightmare. LITTLE MERCIES is a powerful "must read," 5-Star Winner! Every woman, mother, and daughter will relate to this gripping and emotionally charged novel.

Set in Iowa, Ellen and Adam are happily married, with three small children living busy harried lives. Ellen is a loving mother and conscientious in her professional life as a social worker, balancing her life between personal and business, and all the demands which go along with this role. Being a social worker is extremely stressful and one which tragedy occurs daily-she sees firsthand the delicate relationships between children and parents and the devastating effects of neglect.

However, in a blink of an eye, a busy morning—a distraction, and an accident occurs, which will forever change the lives of this family.

In a different town, Jenny, a ten-year old girl, from Nebraska finds herself alone on a bus, after her alcoholic dad is taken away. She has not experienced an easy life, with one obstacle after another— poverty, abuse, struggles with school, a runaway mother and an unpredictable father. In a town alone, far away from her father, she finds herself alone at a diner, when one special lady shows her kindness, by taking her into her heart and family.

Told in alternating perspectives between Ellen and Jenny—offering readers an insight into difficult situations, through the eyes of a guilt-ridden mother and an innocent but determined child. Full of suspense, a chilling tale, so realistic--with twists and turns you will not see coming—these two stories collide for the most powerful and gripping story.

There are so many lives connected from the mothers which were former clients of Ellen (Jade), Ellen’s mother, Maudene, (which I loved), and Jenny (you want to cry for her), and Joe (the cop friend). Your heart goes out to Ellen and this family, keeping you turning pages, into the night, to learn the fate of this two families.

Social workers and those in a capacity of who work tirelessly to protect children and help families, are often disregarded. Often, we forget that those who spend their lives serving and helping others can also make mistakes, at times with shattering results.

This was my first book by Heather Gudenkauf, and was so impressed. She has made it to my favorite author list, and have become an instant fan! I immediately, purchased LITTLE LIES, the e-short story novel, a prequel to LITTLE MERCIES and quickly adding her earlier books to my reading list.

A beautifully written novel, with lovable characters you will remember long after the book ends. Fans of Diane Chamberlain (Necessary Lies) and Jodi Picoult, will enjoy LITTLE MERCIES and Heather’s talented writing style.

LITTLE MERCIES, offers a great takeaway-grab life; appreciating the little things (little mercies) in life which are precious, as they could be threatened at any moment. This story makes you take notice of little ways in which you can make a difference in the lives of others, by offering your time, kindness, and support in a time of need.

Let’s hope for a sequel, as these characters are too good to end!