READ: Review, This Fine Life by Eva Marie Everson (Revell, 2010)

Little things make a big difference. As a writer, as a parent, and as a Christ-follower, I believe and teach this truth. Eva Marie Everson’s shining new novel, This Fine Life, demonstrates it on multiple levels. Mariette Puttnam, a recent graduate of a proper Southern boarding school for proper Southern girls, returns home for the summer of 1959. Life’s inviting road stretches before her, with conflicting opinions from both her parents as to where it should lead. Her confusion becomes consternation, then delight when a chance encounter leads to a destiny-defining relationship. Little things make a big difference. As Mariette moves from pampered daughter to bewildered newlywed to reluctant pastor’s wife, she becomes an easy target for the more plain-spoken members of her new church family. Their public welcome gives way to not-so-private comments about the qualities which (in their minds) render her less than ideal. Will God use her weakness to show forth His strength? Little things—and people—make a big difference. And that’s the fine of This Fine Life. Vibrant, compelling characters; believable dialogue; tender, accurate setting; and a page-turning, heart-twisting plot prove once again that Everson can tell a story—and a beautiful one at that. She wraps this latest reader-gift with redemption, adds a ribbon of grace, and tops it with a lovely Southern bow. The only thing missing from This Fine Life? A sequel. Little things make a big difference. That’s why you’ll want to pick up your own copy...

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