Healing from Trauma

The Space Between Words by Michele Phoenix

Jessica has lived through a terrible terrorist attack on Paris. Though her world is shattered, her friend Patrick encourages her to continue with the trip they have planned through France.  While exploring the countryside, she discovers an antique box containing the pages of a Huguenot girl’s diary.  The pages create a desire for Jessica to discover more about the girl’s story and the persecution that drove her from France.  As Jessica learns Adeline’s story of persecution, she moves towards her own healing.

This book introduced me to a part of history that I knew nothing about.  It gave me a new respect for those who have been persecuted for their faith.   It also exposed me to the pain that victims of trauma experience.

After the attack, Jessica’s relationship with Patrick left me very confused, but that may be what the author intended.  Other than that part, the story unfolded very smoothly and kept me wanting to know more about both Jessica and Adeline.

Despite beginning on a very dark note, the book offered hope.  The way that Jessica’s character grew and developed showed me that she would heal from her attack. Despite their setbacks, all the characters grew and came to accept and find the best in their lives.

This is the second of Michele Phoenix’s books that I have read.  She writes about wounded characters in need of healing.  Her writing conveys their emotions clearly and powerfully. Her heart for those who suffer is evident.  In their pain, she offers them hope.  Many readers will be able to empathize with her characters and perhaps  find a measure of healing for themselves.

I enjoyed this book and think others will, too, especially those who can understand what Jessica experienced.  I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.