Book Review #A Heart's Journey to Forgiveness: A Memoir #Terese Luikens # Christian Spiritual Growth #Death and Grief #Book on Tour

 MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW

Terese Luikens’ memoir, A Heart's Journey to Forgiveness, is a deeply moving exploration of trauma, loss, and the path to healing. With a backdrop of an unstable childhood, marked by an emotionally absent mother and an alcoholic father, Luikens recollects her experiences with raw honesty and forwardness.

The narrative is structured around the significant events of her early life, particularly the profound impact of her father's suicide when she was just thirteen. This pivotal moment serves as both a catalyst for her suffering and the beginning of her quest for understanding and forgiveness. Luikens captures the complexity of her feelings toward her family and the societal stigma surrounding mental health and addiction, providing readers with a nuanced perspective on these often-taboo subjects.

What sets this memoir apart is Luikens’ ability to transform her pain into a message of hope. Her journey towards healing is marked by moments of introspection and self-discovery, as she learns to navigate trust, love, and faith. The inclusion of her spiritual journey adds a rich layer to the narrative, illustrating how faith can provide solace and strength in the face of adversity.

Luikens’ writing is both touching and relatable, allowing readers to connect with her experiences on a personal level. Her reflections are interesting thoughts put together, and she offers insights that resonate with anyone who has faced similar struggles. The book serves not only as a memoir but also as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

Overall, A Heart's Journey to Forgiveness is an inspiring read that will resonate with anyone looking for hope and healing. Also how she turns to the bible and God for enduring her trials in life. Luikens’ story is a powerful reminder that, even amidst chaos, it is possible to find peace and forgiveness. Highly recommended for those interested in personal growth, mental health, and the enduring power of love.

BOOK DESCRIPTION

For Terese Luikens, a picture-perfect childhood it was not. Frequent moves. An emotionally absent mother and an alcoholic father. Suicide.

The sixth of seven children, Terese grew up in an unstable and chaotic household-invisible to her mom yet cherished by her alcoholic dad, who took his own life when Terese was thirteen years old.

This heartfelt memoir documents the chain reaction of a tumultuous family history. From her stormy childhood to the far-reaching effects of her father's suicide, Terese shares her inspiring journey to escape the shame of her past, find healing and love, learn to trust, and discover faith in a real and personal God.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Terese Luikens has been married for forty-four years to the same man, although she is on her third wedding ring, having lost one and worn out another. She lives in Sandpoint, Idaho, enjoys being mother to three grown sons and grandmother to her much-loved grandchildren. She is the author of A Heart’s Journey to Forgiveness, a Memoir of her inspiring journey of emotional healing from her father’s suicide. She facilitates retreats and workshops focusing on forgiveness, and publishes her own blog, Why Bother? 

You can visit her website at www.tereseluikens.com.