Dancing in the Rain: Stories to Shelter the Soul by Candace West, Eleanor Bertin, Angela D. Meyer, Deb Elkink, Sara Davison

ABOUT THE BOOK

Wayward wandering exposes the characters in these stories to storms created by their own or others' choices.

Candace West – McDonald’s Farm
Eleanor Bertin – Who Sends the Rain?
Angela D. Meyer – Rekindling Her Dream
Deb Elkink – Clanging Symbols
Sara Davison – The Poppy

As they deal with the consequences, will they seek shelter in God, finding healing and redemption in the only One who can provide it?

MY THOUGHTS.....

I loved to play in the rain when I was little but who says an adult can't enjoy standing in the rain? Playing in the rain? Or dancing in the rain? This new Mosaic Collection of novellas is titled Dancing in the Rain and all of them share the common theme of experiencing the cleanliness that is associated with rain and water. There are also joint focuses on pain and loss that are often the result of poor choices and selfish acts. Sadness is present but the overwhelming emotions are love, forgiveness, and healing. And yes, feeling free to dance...even in the rain!

Here are my thoughts about the four novellas that I  was able to read so that my review could be posted in a timely fashion. My apologies to Deb Elkink, and I hope to read Clanging Symbols very soon!

Candace West – McDonald’s Farm

I loved the title, the colorful cover, and the reunion between Charity and Gilbert. Charity's belief that she caused Gilbert's blindness has plagued her for nineteen years. This is a sweet but powerful story of second chances and forgiveness...forgiving others but also being able to forgive yourself!  I would love to see Charity and Gilbert's relationship explored further. 

"Can I be honest? The only difference between us is that I've let God heal my brokenness. You're still fighting Him."

Eleanor Bertin – Who Sends the Rain?

Bertin shares a relevant story about the long-term effects of bullying, for both the giver and the receiver. Myra regrets her role in the bullying of her classmate Donna, but she's given the best gift that she could ever hope for. Donna offers Myra the mercy of forgiveness because she knows that she's also been given that gift by her Heavenly Father! 

"So yes, it was a horrible time that I can never forget. But it made me who I am today. I can thank God for it. And I can gladly forgive you."

Angela D. Meyer – Rekindling Her Dream

This is a lovely story with some amazing characters. An abusive relationship has altered Josie's ability to trust but Daniel finally convinces her that he will be with her for the long haul. And then, an unexpected announcement threatens their happiness. Rekindling Her Dream is truly a testament to faith, trust, and forgiveness, plus a reminder that family is everything!

"This goes to show you, wonderful things can happen in the middle of a mess" 

Sara Davison – The Poppy

Wow! Talk about the power of hope. Eric has experienced the love of two women and been given the gift of two sets of fantastic children, but his childhood hurts have influenced his entire life. His choices have hurt so many so how can he possibly expect to be forgiven? This is a wonderful story that illustrates the joy that comes from being a believer and Eric is shown this by the Christian witness of his own children. I absolutely loved this story that reminds us that family ties need to be protected and preserved! 

"Mom said the heart has a tremendous capacity to love. That it's a muscle, and the more you exercise it, the more love you have to give."

I recommend Dancing in the Rain to all who enjoy stories laced with emotion and inspiration, and it's perfect for people who love to read but are limited on time. Each short novella can be read in a short amount of time, making this collection perfect for summer reading!

I received a digital copy from the publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

The Mosaic Collection launched in 2018 as an international community of independently published authors who approach life, faith, and writing together. Some have vast writing experience, others are somewhat new to the journey. Under The Mosaic Collection’s banner, they’ve published more than 20 novels and four anthologies.

With over 150 years of collective writing experience, Mosaic’s award-winning and best-selling authors are active leaders and members in prominent writing organizations. The goal of The Mosaic Collection is to encourage and uplift readers worldwide, offer hope in story form, and share the unconditional love and forgiveness found in Jesus Christ.

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