Peace Like A River

"A test of a good novel is dreading to begin the last chapter." - Thomas Helm

I'm not a book reviewer. But every once in a while I feel compelled to write about my experience with a book. It took me two months to read "Peace Like a River"- not because it is excessively long, or because I was slowed by boredom. Quite the contrary. The prose were so beautiful, the verbs and descriptions so original and intelligent, I slowed down (more than usual) to relish the writing. I took notes. I read with a pen in my hand ready to underline sentences and phrases. The story and characters--so real and engaging--became my companions, part of my daily thoughts.

I postponed reading the final chapter for three days (something I've only done two other times). I just wasn't ready for the book to end. When I finally finished, locked in my bedroom, the ending did not disappoint. I closed the book feeling genuinely sad and achingly happy.

It is one of the few books I will read again.