Book Review,  Women's Fiction

BLOG TOUR: A Borrowed Life by Kerry Anne King @kerry_anne_king @LUauthors @tlcbooktours #aborrowedlife

From the Amazon Charts bestselling author of Whisper Me This comes an emotional and sharply witty novel about how life’s unexpected detours can ultimately bring you home.

For twenty-six years Liz has perfectly played the part of Mrs. Thomas Lightsey, exemplary pastor’s wife and mother. But maintaining appearances for the congregation and catering to her demanding husband takes a toll, and she’s lost herself in meeting the expectations of others. When Thomas suddenly dies, Liz feels shock, grief, and, to her surprise, the siren song of freedom. Dare she dream of a life to call her own?

Despite the resistance of her daughter, Abigail, to even the smallest changes, Liz lands a role at the community theater. Inspired by new friends and the character she plays, she explores life’s possibilities, including an unexpected—and steamy—relationship with her leading man.

Just when Liz thinks she might be winning, life hits her with an unthinkable shock. She’s pregnant at forty-nine. Torn between conflicting loyalties to her daughter, her lover, her unborn baby, and herself, can Liz find a way to rebuild her dream life one more time?

Reflection

Some books just feel like they are good for your soul, and Kerry Anne King’s A Borrowed Life is one of those books. Funny, sweet, emotional, inspiring, and uplifting. This is a perfect read to lift your spirits and remind us that even hard times bring change and good things to those with an open heart.

The main character Liz Lightsey has been the perfect Pastor’s wife for 26 years, when at 49 she finds herself a widow. Being a pastor’s life isn’t easy—Liz spent so much of her time catering to her family and her church, that she let herself and her own interests fall by the wayside. Now at 49, Liz isn’t entirely sure who she is. Thomas had ideas about what the roles for a woman and man in a home were, and suddenly Liz is able to think clearly if she agrees.

I thought this was so relatable—I think women in general tend to sacrifice what they want for others (particularly men). And we do it willingly, we are often nurturers and taking care of others is important to us. But our interests matter too. I think most women will really connect with this book and with Liz, she is such a great character and I loved seeing her come alive as the book went on.

When Liz’s neighbor suggests she audition for a part in a community theater production, Liz begins to find herself again little by little. Her life is hers now, and she is opening up new opportunities and meeting new people. And slowly, Liz experiences other things—margaritas, wearing jeans, cutting her hair. Liz is finally living her life for herself and doing things that interest her.

There are a few moments that took me by surprise in the story that I really enjoyed! This is a lovely story and one that will bring a smile to your face.

Thank you to TLC Book Tours for my copy. Opinions are my own.

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