An Indianapolis native and graduate of DePauw University, Amy lives with her husband, three boys and a gaggle of golden retrievers in central Indiana. After writing and editing for her college newspaper, she combined a nursing degree with journalism and creative writing, which led to publishing and editing a wide array of medical and nursing writing and multimedia projects over the past 21 years, a position as director of communications of her church’s children’s ministry, as well as a weekly column for a local newspaper which ran from 2009-2012. She has been a two-time semi-finalist for the ACFW Genesis awards, and was the winner of the 2011 Women of Faith writing contest.
When she’s not reading or writing, Amy loves spending time with her three sons; spicy lunches and art gallery walks with her husband; digging in her garden sans gloves; walking her dogs; up-cycling old furniture and junk; photography; and friends.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
From a distance, the Harlans appear to be the perfect Southern family. Wealth and local fame mask the drama and dysfunction swirling through their family line. But as the summer heats up, a flood tide of long hidden secrets surface.
Devastation from a rape followed by the murder of two family members brings three generations of the Harlans together on their pecan plantation in Bay Spring, Alabama. Chief among them is Anniston, who by the time she turned thirteen thought she’d seen it all. But as her heart awakens to the possibility of love, she begins to deal with her loneliness and grief.
This tender coming-of-age tale, inspired by the story of Tamar in 2 Samuel 13, shows how true healing and hope comes only from God. Though our earthly family can wound and disappoint, our heavenly Father brings freedom to those long held captive through His mercy and grace.
If you would like to read the first chapter of How Sweet the Sound, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
How Sweet the Sound is a beautifully honest novel about three generations of a coastal Alabama family. The story is related through the voice of two people – thirteen-year-old Anniston who believes the recent Hurricane Frederic must be the absolute worst thing that could happen in her life and her Aunt Comfort who is excited to announce her engagement to the love of her life. Unfortunately before Thanksgiving is over, both Anniston and Comfort, along with their family experience devastating tragedy that threatens to tear the family apart. Long buried family secrets that gradually surface during the course of the narrative force the remaining members of the family to deal with the truth.
At times How Sweet the Sound is somewhat difficult to read. Anniston and Comfort are both portrayed so well that it is impossible not to become emotionally involved with their grief and pain. Other characters also play pivotal roles, especially Anniston’s new friend Jed whose own life has been tragic yet his attitude and wise observations add a special touch to the story. Then there is Princella, the grandmother who seems to be unable to exhibit love to her children and grandchild but is so focused on the family’s image in their community.
How Sweet the Sound is ultimately an account of the far-reaching effect that sexual abuse can have on the victim as well as future generations. It is also a testimony to the grace and mercy of our God who walks with us through the darkness and if we will trust Him, will bring us through it into His healing light.
I was not sure what to expect when I first opened this book but I am thankful that I had the chance to read it.
