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A Captivating Story

by Kristen Whirrett

May 30, 2011

@kmwhirrett

Have you ever opened a new book and found you couldn’t put it down? When it happens, I savor it because I know I’ve found a gem of a book. This book, When Sparrows Fall by Meg Moseley, was indeed one of those. I started reading it after lunch on Memorial Day and finished before dinner that evening. (Yes, I realize I’m a fast reader – but it was also that riveting of a book!)

When Sparrows Fall is the store of Miranda, a young widow with 6 children. The story begins when Miranda’s pastor tells the congregation they are all to move. You quickly see that this oppressive church is really a cult, led by a manipulative pastor. Miranda struggles to separate herself from the church and live a life of freedom.

Soon after, Miranda falls and is severely hurt. Her brother-in-law, Jack, comes to take care of the six nieces and nephews he has never met. He quickly falls in love with them, even as he tries to broaden their world view by feeding them Frosted Flakes and reading them (gasp) fiction!

Both Miranda and Jack hold secrets in their past. This book tells of their struggles to forgive themselves and to receive God’s mercy. One of my favorite quotes was this one by Jack. “I’m a sinner, Lord,” he whispered, “but I’m Your sinner. May I always be in a condition accessible to mercy. So may we all.” How true!

You will quickly find yourself captivated by Miranda’s story. It is a well-written work of fiction, only because we know (sadly) of so-called churches that operate in this same manipulative manner. Yet, our God is a God of freedom. He watches over the sparrows in the sky and every one of his precious children.

This was Meg Moseley’s first book. She is a very talented writer who draws you in with sincere dialog and emotional characters. It is a powerful reminder to have faith in God – and no one else.

Please note that I received a free copy of this book from Waterbrook Multnomah in exchange for my feedback. All opinions expressed are my own.