Book Jacket

 

rank 105
word count 49279
date submitted 25.10.2011
date updated 08.02.2013
genres: Fiction, Literary Fiction, Christia...
classification: universal
complete

The Woman from E.A.R.L.

Georgia Peck

Emily takes a stand against spiritual abuse in the church and rediscovers her faith along the way.

 

Grief-stricken Emily has had enough of Mainard Bible Church. If Jane isn't trying to pry information out of her about her spiritual condition, Alicia's busy telling her what “the Lord said.” The new pastor has left, but not before dividing the congregation. Now Emily’s best friend, Ida, won’t talk to her, and reading the Bible for herself only makes things worse. She's lost her husband and her faith. She's not coming back.

Emily starts a chat room and blog called EARL, a place where people share their stories of spiritual abuse, stories she finds deeply moving. Soon, she’s in over her head and recruits the help of Alden Daniels, a counselor and minister. There’s an instant spark between Emily and Alden, one she’d rather ignore.

But Mainard is in trouble again. Soon, Emily finds herself fighting spiritual abuse face-to-face, next to her old friends, and not just in a chat room.

With the support of Alden, a new friend, Charlea, her old friend, Ida, and a dog named Rowdy, Emily slowly learns to live again.

 
rate the book

to rate this book please Register or Login

 

tags

family issues, friendship, humor, jesus, single mother, spiritual abuse, west virginia, women, women's fiction

on 89 watchlists

274 comments

 

To leave comments on this or any book please Register or Login

subscribe to comments for this book
Dianna Lanser wrote 461 days ago

Final CLF review -

What can I say, Georgia? The Woman from E.A.R.L. was a very satisfying read. When it was done, if felt as happy and peaceful as Emily. I love happy endings. I thought you brought resolution to everyone in such a beautiful way.

In case you were wondering, I didn’t have the teeniest inkling of concern when I read chapter 26. I thought it was spot on. Emily was absolutely in the right and she knew it, that’s what gave her the courage to say what she had to say. ( well that and Charlea’s prayers)

What did bring out my emotion (I choked up three times) was when Emily’s thoughts turned to her daughters and how she thought she let them down. I was so glad she tried to work through that with them. I remember reading the early chapter where Emily shuts down at the accident scene. I thought to myself then, “Oh my, those poor little girls…

Not only does your story fulfill a purpose of showing people the danger and pain caused by spiritual abuse, this is simply a really entertaining story too. The characters and their mingled relationships, the separate sub-plots going on within their lives kept the story interesting and very relevant.

You are a very talented writer, one who I am so happy to call my friend. I pray God’s purposes will be met with this book.

Dianna Lanser
Nothing But The Blood

bunderful wrote 507 days ago

Okay. I don't even know where to begin. First of all I must say that I am not of the Christian faith and I have read a bunch of Christian fiction on this site and had a very difficult time relating to it because I don't understand very much about the Christian faith and it was difficult for me to understand a lot of the culture and issues, ideas and themes.

This? This is not Christian fiction. You have written a universal novel, a novel that people from all faiths can understand and relate to. Please excuse my but I am going to gush over here for a bit:

Not only is your writing beautiful in its simplicity - but the cadence of your sentences and you main character's personality and thought processes shines so brightly. It is what many say about my work - and I think that in your writing I may have found a kindred spirit. There is much about the way you write that reminds me of how I write. Measured sentences. Pregnant pauses. I can't really put it in words - but its totally there.

I think that Emily's crisis of faith is something that so many people experience - of all different religions - and people like Alex unfortunately abound (again, in all religions) and you write about these things bravely and openly, yet modestly and earnestly.

There is so much I admire about your writing, but so much I admire about your story, that I don't even know where to begin. And Emily is so real. So honest. So likeable. This is really difficult to pull off in 1st person. And the way your write about grief...

I am watchlisting this, giving it 6 stars and will put it on my shelf after January 1 when things calm down for me a bit on the site.

I have no criticism right now. That's really rare for me.

Wow. Just wow.

- Rena (Bunderful) author of Master of the Miracles

GRHWagner wrote 517 days ago

A lack of knowledge of Christians and the inner workings of a church does not dictate for certain that this book cannot be enjoyed by all. The author’s audience is people everywhere. It is the same everyday tale of struggle and balance with religious faith and place in each person’s life. Lovingly handled by the author in such a manner that one can be brought to tears over the trials and conflicts between friends and family and loyalty to God and the teachings, interpretations, and testaments of the words of The Bible as applicable in modern day, this story comes from the upclose and very personal viewpoint of the women who reject the hellfire and brimstone preachings in favour of the loving and nurturing embrace of their church and its patrons.

Mindful that there are times in our lives when events bring everything to a sudden and unexpected halt, while the world continues to turn about you, this author recognizes that one can appear to require a jump start to get moving again. The MC, Emily, seems at odds with everyone, tolerance of even the little things disappears, and author Ms. Georgia Peck is in tune with the very nature that realizes one may have to step out in order to get back in step with life. Exploring just such an instance, and the unique journey by which Emily finds her way back into her role as mother and religious witness and teacher of the loving embrace of The Shepherd’s fold, the author allows the characters to find strength in numbers and the ability to offer compassion, comfort, encouragement, and support to those victimized by the tyrants of pious domination.

In the more difficult present tense, Ms. Peck brings a community to the hearts of readers, makes one care and pray for the down-trodden, hope for the lost and discouraged, and admire those who step up to the challenge to do right by God and community. Oh, what the world could do with a chat room like EARL.
As for me, I was a bit confused with all the characters in chapters one and two, too many to keep track of and all that. Not uncommon, and by chapters three and four, I had settled quite nicely into the style and voice of this story. Perhaps, the expansion of the first two chapters into two more could have set all of the numerous characters better in my mind. Overall, it is very well written, and deserving of my high rating, and the only thing that I would definitely change would be the title - and only due to the story being about The Women From EARL.

The very best wishes to you on this one.

EMDelaney wrote 533 days ago

The Women from EARL / Georgia Peck

What a treat! I had to say that first.

The Women From EARL is a well-written depiction of life in small town America seen through the eyes of Emily Anne Rose Lyons. Interesting is the way she addresses issues I think many people struggle with every day in regard to 'religion' and the difference in 'faith'. I know single moms will like this.

I really enjoyed this. The flow is smooth, there is humor, philosophy, plot and great characters that combine to create what I think may well be a classic. (Would make a good movie)

Georgia Peck is a good writer. Not too much...not too little. The plot is well set, the scenes are VERY described and word usage, especially dialogue, is crisp and clean with no caffiene!

The entire premise for this story is unique. Not because someone may have a few issues with the / a church, it's goers or faith. We've read all that stuff. What Peck does is bring it to us in a story of human essence, one that is defined by our conscious as if we could be living it. I was very impressed with the way she did not 'hurry' the plot, yet kept it smooth. As I read this work I felt I was reading the work of a confident, capable writer who knew when to tickle the reader, what not to say at the wrong time and when to pile on the mystery. (Yes, the story has some mystery)

Essentially, this story reads like literary fiction. Some parts may seem slow but frankly, I never was tempted to stop reading. Peck does not hurry it (I said that I know) and that is the comparison I make to Lit Fic.

Excellent work! 6 stars. This is publishable work and I would buy a copy right now!

E M Delaney

Margaret0307 wrote 24 days ago

An excellent read written by a very talented author. I have recently returned to authonomy with a new book and decided to read this book again as I remembered it being very good. I was not disappointed! This time I particularly liked the practical suggestions to deal with difficult issues i.e. detailed questions for possible new pastors rather than relying on studies and degrees - neither of which give anyone a relationship with God!
I will put this on my shelf for a while as it is so good.
God bless
Margaret
How do I know God answers prayer?

Seringapatam wrote 76 days ago

Georgia, I have been to find this book on purpose and I wanted to try something that is so far away from my genre. This is it. You have a good flow to the book but also a good descriptive voice also. its this that will keep the reader engaged. I like the way the pace is raised and lowered throughout the course of the book and its this that works well enough to sort of inner promote it to the reader. I like it and I will score it high.
Sean Connolly. British Army on the Rampage. (B.A.O.R) Please consider me for a read or watch list wont you?? Many thanks. Sean

mcrose wrote 86 days ago

Came across your book and intended on reading the first three chapters, but that rapdily changed into thirteen, with a soon return to finish the remainder. Great writing. I can relate down my very core. I grew up with a dad whose ministry was with crisis churches--he'd come in after church splits, arguments, and the like. All I ever saw of Christians, outside my parents and a scarcity of others, were Pharisees and hypocrites. It's the world over in the church and this should not be. I know multitudes can relate to your story as well. Sad to say this fiction is an all too real non-fiction storyline for many genuine Christians. Seems like, in addition to the Pharisees, there are countless apostles of apathy that have infiltrated the church. Compassionless, self-righteous individuals who seek law rather than grace through Jesus Christ. I have enjoyed reading your book and will be finishing in the very near future! Thank you for writing reality in fiction.

Chad
Convoluted Christianity

Tod Schneider wrote 212 days ago

Your writing is exceptional for its human-ness. It comes across as open and humble and letting the reader inside your world to share your inner struggles. The writing is exceptionally clear and easy going, very accessible. Nicely done!
Any interest in kids' literature? If so, you are invited to take a peek at the Lost Wink!
Thanks!
Tod
http://authonomy.com/books/40646/the-lost-wink/

Abby Vandiver wrote 236 days ago

I like this book. This is happening in churches - divisiveness. Good job. The writing is good but there is editing needed to tighten it up as it's wordy in places.

Abby

July Fourth wrote 237 days ago

Georgia,
I very much enjoyed your book (as much as I have read-never enough time in a day, lol). Even though it is fiction, it could definitely happen in real life! I also enjoyed your writing style; it flows well, and 'feels' real. I am currently working on another book, non-fiction, about my and my husband's Christian journey over the last 4 years. I am a little over half way of the required word count to upload, but will hopefully be there this week.

David Olawoyin wrote 239 days ago

Hmmm.... Sounds interesting. For some reason, it came across like "Desperate Housewives" with a Christian angle. Then when I read about the dog, I wondered if I was going back to the days of "Famous Five." Not kidding here or poking fun, just leaving a sincere comment. Wishing you the blessings of the Lord.

Lenny Banks wrote 295 days ago

Hi Georgia, I read chapter 6. You have written a moving piece of work here, I felt I was right beside your character through all her trials. I shoo'd a cat away from my garden several years ago, to learn the owners had just moved away and left it here, you can guess it now lives here and its so affectionate, so I can tune in to a little of your character's experince. Nit Picking I noted you use 'o.k.' and 'okay', someone advised me it was best to be consistant, I do prefer 'okay'. II found it eay to read teh characters wasy to warm to and easy to sympathis with. Well Done.
Kindest Regards and Best Wishes
Lenny Banks - Tide and Time: At The Rock.

Bart Jahn wrote 309 days ago

Dear Georgia...I liked your book so much I read it a second time. Glad to see it moving up. Hope you have more to follow in the near future. Bart Jahn

KMac23 wrote 313 days ago

You captured Emily's pain in both the death of her husband, the struggles with parenting alone, and the isolation she felt from the one place where she could have used comfort and understanding. It could have happened in just about any church, as the pastors, mentors, etc. are human, and don't always have it all together themselves. Your an encouragement to those going through these situations.

Your characters were realistic and well though out. Just about anyone reading this book could relate to having known at least one person like each of the characters in your book, the gossip saying 'bless their hearts", the accused, the accusers, people using scripture to abuse, etc.

I enjoyed this very much! High stars for you!

Keith Gilbey wrote 315 days ago

Georgia,

A great story gently but emphatically told! As a writer and a man - who was brought to Christ by meeting my wife - I have to say that i find so little about God and Jesus and 'grace' in Church - and so much about people and power and superstition.... and fear.... We get so lost in the theology that we forget the basics...

High stars.

Keith
Peppermint

SteveSeven wrote 320 days ago

hello Georgia, Im so glad you pointed chapter 26 out to me. The Truth started before the Bible and goes beyond it. Great insight! You have the same concepts as my book in different words. There is a term for that: Universal revelation. It is very encouraging to think that God is working through people in so many ways to open up and expand their view of exactly what God is. I love the intelligent way you have expressed this in your book. We are obviously writing for different people, but we have the same revelations from God. All Grace to you. Steve

Patricia Laster wrote 321 days ago

This is a very realistic, readable book about a difficult topic. The parallel themes of two crises seems to run throughout the book: the crisis of a church split and the personal crisis of a woman's faith. Being an older woman like Charlea, I've encountered several church splits in my life and always, always they create a crisis of faith among the members such as those revealed in this work.

The author has developed some very authentic characters in her book: the main character, Emily, is totally understandable; Ida, her friend, who goes from not talking to Emily to being her supporter once again; Alden Daniels, the counselor/minister who helps Emily with her blog and eventually becomes the new love of her life; Alicia; Charlea; wolfman; the elderly Rev. Mainard; and, last but not least, Rowdy were all favorite characters of mine in this story. Of course I loved Rebecca, Sarah, and Emma (Emily's 3 daughters) also.

This is a very emotionally provoking book as it hits home for many Christians who have experienced similar spiritual abuse by leaders in their church. The two characters who stand out the most vividly as representing this sort of abusive leadership are Alex and Michael. In chapter 7, when Michael says about "EARL" that it is "the devil challenging the God given authority granted the chosen leaders of the church." it makes you understand why many people leave such church situations.

One of the most profound, insightful, summarizing statements in the whole book is this one:

"We need a leader who doesn't try to stand between us and God." Thank goodness for church members who think for themselves, read their Bibles, and are willing to take a stand against corrupt leadership as Emily had the courage to do through her blog, EARL. The number of churches experiencing similar crises was well represented in Georgia's book by Wolfman and the other bloggers on Emily's site. It was uplifting and deeply meaningful to this reader, however, to see Emily and her precious family and Alden find their way back to her church and experience the healing that such a reunion provides.

As a reader, I personally wish Georgia Peck a lot of success with this book. It is a story that affects many, many lives and, as such, offers insight, hope, and an affirmation of the love of God to those lives.

SteveSeven wrote 322 days ago

Great book, I especially like the way you talk about God's feminine characteristics and that you didn't learn that in church. This is a candid portrayal of some of the difficulties of Church life that should not only challenge but also encourage others who are finding it hard. As one of your other commentators has stated, this book is also broad enough to appeal to non-believers. I have placed this book on my watchlist and will be interested in its progress up the ranks. kind regards, Steve

Bart Jahn wrote 328 days ago

Dear Georgia...This is my CCRG review. I completed your book a few hours ago. I have so many things I could say, but I will try to be brief.

First, this is a brilliant story, and I do not use that word lightly. Very original topic, excellently written. You have saved me from two or three decades of painfully learning the lessons in this book the hard-way through personal experience, taking me into the disastrous effects of power abuse that is possible in small town churches where people have attended for years, have established deep roots and friendships, and have few options to go elsewhere. You obviously have first-hand experience and familiarity with this issue, or you could not have written this story with such intimate insight.

I have read through two pages of comments. I enjoy reading the comments almost as much as reading the books. Dianna Lanser's comments of 133 and 138 days ago are insightful as always. The comments by Faith Rose of 137 days ago are excellent. I cannot improve upon the comments of reviewer Ms. J of 65 days ago. Nicole had very detailed literary comments excellently done 114 days ago. People on Authonomy who have this capacity for expert writing analysis are invaluable as constructive critics. Hannah Gridley stayed up till 3 A.M. to finish your book...can't think of higher praise.

I would not change anything in your book. But a quick comment as a Christian. In chapter 26, you make an inspired reference to the importance of Christian's reading the Bible for themselves: "Tyndale died so we could read the Bible for ourselves." A few sentences earlier you write: "We need a leader who doesn't try to stand between us and God." Beautifully encapsulates the theme of the Protestant Reformation. I worked a few years ago as a project engineer on the construction of a new multi-million dollar mega-church building in Southern California. The emphasis seemed to be all about the size of the drop-down big screens, the music system, and the lighting that could be turned down to near black in the huge stadium-seating sanctuary. We may have shifted gears in some cases from the extreme of the pride of scholarship and educational erudition, to the pride of church growth based upon a church service that is more Broadway-quality entertainment than Christian worship and fellowship as a congregation of believers. Just as we do not need a Pharisee in the pulpit, we certainly do not need a charismatic personality and a cast of professionals to entertain us...to come between us and God. The Holy Spirit is the best teacher and the best entertainer, and we are out of balance when the fallen nature of man gets the upper hand in either area. I had not made this connection prior to reading your book.

I liked the way you provided a workable solution to this very practical issue, by suggesting that the congregation ask pertinent and detailed questions of prospective pastors during their interview phase, and not just assume that their advanced degree in theology automatically equates to being a godly servant-leader.

Your closing chapter 30 is a masterpiece. I am a fairly stoic and analytical man, but I got choked up and a little teary eyed in that chapter. Thanks for the excellent read. I hope and pray it gets published soon, and is out there for people to read and ponder. You are on my watchlist now and my bookshelf over the coming months, with 6 stars. God bless you. Bart Jahn

Mademoiselle Nobel wrote 351 days ago

~The Woman from E.A.RL. by Georgia Peck~

This is a very clever idea – with Emily starting a spiritual abuse blog, this has instantly made THE WOMAN FROM E.A.R.L. a forerunner in Christian Fiction at the moment. And we can easily relate to the consequences, in Emily’s case losing her best friend Ida, that go with treading a different path in life (i.e. Emily abandoning her faith = losing her best friend, Ida). It paints such a fascinating picture of how religion plays a factor in relationships at Bible Church. And I love it interchanges between Emily and Ida’s point of view so we get to hear both sides of the story.

This is very well-written and all the elements work together harmoniously. This deserves to be published! Six-starred, highly recommended and WL so I can come back and read more!

Iman xxx

Miss Manners: http://www.authonomy.com/books/39355/miss-manners

Cody Pelletier wrote 358 days ago

Georgia,
I'm so glad I took the time begin reading your book. It is great. I love your writing style. I knew I was going like Emily (EARL) right from the start and the more I read the more I like her. I think she is someone we can all identify with (men & women). Also, like many of the commenters, I feel you have presented a story that has a perfect balance between the religeous aspect and the story. I think everyone, regardless of faith, will enjoy this.

Really-really well done. Top stars from me.

Cody

stevieluvsalex wrote 363 days ago

This book was instantly captivating. I had to back it. It drew me in instantly leaving me curious and wanting more. I love your writing style. Fabulous book. I hope to see it on the shelves someday.

stevieluvsalex wrote 363 days ago

This book was instantly captivating. I had to back it. It drew me in instantly leaving me curious and wanting more. I love your writing style. Fabulous book. I hope to see it on the shelves someday.

RaineyC wrote 364 days ago

I love your writing style. I've read several chapters, and found the story interesting and the characters real and credible. I feel I can relate to Emily. I can feel her pain, anger and frustration, and I 'know' the people she feels have let her down. I feel let down by them too, and I find myself recalling times I've witnessed spiritual abuse and questioning my own faith and beliefs. I definitely want to come back for more.

dragonNMR wrote 365 days ago

I am not a person of religion, but I can say that I am truly enjoying your writing. Your character is so dynamic and alive, her pain is so real and sad, makes me remember recent tragedies. And I can sympathize with her current dilemma, the death of a loved one is always tragic, especially that of a partner and trying to readjust after the loss. This is a sure-love not just for single mothers but anyone who has lost someone dear. Thank you for sharing your work!

Margaret0307 wrote 374 days ago

You are a talented writer. The prologue drew me in immediately and the characters are very 'real'. Although it is 'fiction' there are some elements which are unfortunately very true-to-life. Your writing is so vivid it makes me wonder if you have had real-life experience of some of this.

I have read several chapters and am already impressed. High stars and I hope to come back and read more when I have some more time.

Margaret
How do I know I know God?

patio wrote 380 days ago

I like your book so much I came back
"I'm laughing and crying at the same time" same as your words

Peter Sidebotham wrote 380 days ago

Georgia,
you introduce two new guests to the chat room in 22, with almost identical introductions: 'there's one new guest in the chat room tonight' and 'there's a new person in the chat room tonight.' I suggest you change one of those.
chapter 27 - like the wisdom from Hugh Mainard; don't like the gooey interaction between Alden and Emily; but love the little twist at the end of chapter 28!

Well Georgia, what can I say? you've done a great job here. I'm afraid it isn't a book I would rush out to buy, or would read twice, but I'm glad I kept reading to the end. Your closing scene brought tears to my eyes and it is a great ending to the book. For me, the book was too simple a treatment of a very complex issue, but having said that, I think it is an incredibly important issue, and weaving it into a narrative like this is a great way of dealing with it. So may God bless your edits, your climb up the authonomy ladder, and above all, may he bless you with love, joy and peace.
Peter

Peter Sidebotham wrote 381 days ago

Chapter 20. I've found what I've been looking for - the glimmer of hope, recognition that even with the abuse and the pain, there is love and goodness. I think you are right though to wait till chapter 20 to bring this in - so often, particularly when in the midst of it, it just isn't possible to either see or acknowledge that there is goodness there too. And perhaps that is one of the hardest bits of abuse (of any kind) - that it can seemingly walk hand in hand with goodness? A bit like families I guess, and this is where the real gem in your writing is starting to shine through Georgia (chapter 21 now), weaving in a parallel narrative about Emily's family (and the ongoing narrative about her dealing with her grief over Ted, and coming to terms with her emotions for Alden). Well done; I'm looking forward to reading on to the end now.

Peter Sidebotham wrote 384 days ago

I've come back at chapter 7, and you've hooked me. The jumble of emotions expressed by Ida are so real, and I love the irony of the new preacher ranting about EARL and Ida making the link. I like the analogy with trying to stamp out left-handedness in chapter 9. I also like your little touches - the glasses of wine (I've a glass of Pinot Grigio beside me at the moment); Alden insisting that women are equally culpable; Emily rolling her eyes; and the tentative, blossoming romance. Well done.

Rachelsarah wrote 385 days ago

Also I found the pro;ogue very well written, it drew me in straight away.

Rachelsarah wrote 385 days ago

what a wonderful read. i thoroughly enjoyed the idea for this book, and i found it interesting hearing about Emilys pastt and how she met Ted i will read on and continue to comment.

Peter Sidebotham wrote 385 days ago

Gosh Georgia,
You jump right in with both feet don't you? I have finally got round to reading this and by the end of the prologue I felt like I'd been punched, kicked and betrayed myself. So, although it wasn't quite what I was hoping for when I sat down for a relaxing afternoon, I am impressed. You write powerfully and with passion and the prose really does flow.

Chapter 1: I'm not sure about the punctuation for the first sentence of paragraph 2: It's Sunday so of course, here I sit, where I've sat... Those commas feel all wrong to me, but I'm not the best person to comment on grammar.
A bit further on, would 'my women's intuition' be better as 'my woman's intuition'?

A few chapters on and I'm struggling with the culture here - it is so far from my experience that people could accept so passively what a pastor says; but I know that does happen, and I guess that's why spiritual abuse can happen, even if it is perhaps usually more subtle?

Chapter 6 - well done, you cover the accident and Emily's feelings really well.

I'll be honest, I'm not convinced about the book. On the one hand, I think it is great to acknowledge the reality of spiritual abuse, and to explore just what that means; on the other hand, do we really need it? What will we gain by reading through lots of stories of different examples of such abuse? However, it is well written, and I'm prepared to give it a try, so I will keep reading, even if just in small bits.

Peter

sylviawriter wrote 390 days ago

Just read the first chapter and had to comment. You are an excellent writer. You have an easy to follow style with completely believable dialogue. The characters are interesting and immediately I wanted to know more about all of them. I already know I want to back this book and I look forward to reading the remainder chapters.

Sylvia Talo
Deadly Dot Com Revenge

Ms. J wrote 394 days ago

Georgia,
I just finished your book, and thought I would comment again.

The grammar geek came out a little. There were still problems with commas, including commas instead of period before speech tags. The mechanics are easily fix thought, so I'm not worried about it.

I like Alden's fun mannerisms and the way hit fits into the family.

Also, I identified with the comment about the pastor eating too much. We all have our vices. That is important to remember.

Seriously this Alicia person, I would have said to her, "God told me to tell you to shut up!" It's good she had a chance for redemption in the end.

Ch 23 was especially good. I'm glad you included Jessie's realization about Pastor being lonely. Sometimes we forget that. I did think there was some possible foreshadowing with the conversation regarding the doctor.

There were several twists at the end that I didn't see coming. Was there an implied twist with Charlea and Hugh? :-)

Great job with the conversation with Emily and Cynthia. I especially liked it because it showed that even though Emily has become a leader in this situation, she too is still learning, and she doesn't resent it. That scene right there sums up the change that Emily goes through in the course of this book.

You have a great style. It flows well and is easy to read. You've also done a good job of tackling an issue that many people are going to identify with. Thank you for a every enjoyable read.

Cheers,
Ms. J- Lord of All

trevca wrote 395 days ago

I like the simplistic and gentle approach to this story. Waxing lyrical can often ruin the flow of words as they should be read. I was quite intrigued by Emily and her faith issues, Ida, charlea et cetera and their opnions of the church. This is very nicely written. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read this. I find no fault with this story and I would highly recommend it to anyone.

Trev

PTingen wrote 396 days ago

Georgia,

I like your prologue very much! Nice addition to this wonderful book. I'll be getting you back on my shelf next month. :-)

Blessings!

Patti

Ms. J wrote 396 days ago

Georgia,
I'm continuing to read. Today I made it through ch 9. I did notice there were a few spots where you used had and didn't need it. If you can cut it out, that will make the language more active. Now to the interesting stuff. We had someone through a bag of puppies on the highway in front of our home. I was able to rescue one and she lived with us until she passed away. That made me relate to the puppy situation.

As I was reading Ida's story, I really found myself repulsed by Ida and especially John. Then there was that little act of rebellion on Ida's part. I didn't see that coming and she grew in my estimation.

I like Alden and his character presents some interesting possibilities.

Favorite line from this section- "Pharisees wouldn't exist unless we let them exist."

Regards,
Ms. J

wordworker wrote 397 days ago

I like the prologue...it does a good job of setting the stage. The only question I have is whether "dear Alex" would countenance people in his church calling him "Alex" ... I should think the authoritarian within would insist on at LEAST "Brother Alex" or "Pastor Alex".
Love, Joyce

HGridley wrote 397 days ago

I like the preface. It shows immediately what Alex is doing to divide the church, and it shows that Ida regrets her friend’s pain. I also like how it ties in with the end of the first chapter--the woman they are used to having serve the communion, and how Alex is going to interrupt her service. The only thing I think you might reconsider is the sentence, “In a short time, Alex would be gone.” I think this gives away a bit of what happens later, unless you add a quick sentence about his plans to leave. I like your idea! :)
~Hannah

Ms. J wrote 398 days ago

Georgia,
I read the first 5 chapters and I wanted to make some comments.

Ch. 1
I particularly enjoyed the personification in the 1st paragraph. You did a good job of setting up the conflict right away. Personally, I think it is healthy to question your religion. I don't believe God wants us to follow blindly.

I found the character of Emily to be human as easy to relate to.

I did notice that you have several compound sentences that are missing the comma.

Ch 2-
I was please to see that the problem was not just this particular congregation. Alex's actions clearly don't come from love and he is not the only one like that.


Ch 3.
I had a personal reaction to Ida because I experiences a situation similar to Emily's. I detest Ida's ignorance.

Ch.4
When you switch back to Emily's POV here, I was a little thrown. I wasn't sure who was telling the story at first. Without the header, I just assumed we were carrying on with Ida.

Ch 5
Great Allusions to Shakespeare's Seven Stages on Man sonnet!

Overall:
I am enjoying the read. I can relate very much with this as I recently experience a similar situation. Coming from a very religious culture, it has not been as easy road. I am interested to see where Emily's journey will take her.

Regards,
Ms. J- Lord of All
Historical Fiction Readers Group

patio wrote 398 days ago

I love your structure and attention for details
I read a bit but with time I would finish

Isoje David wrote 399 days ago

First, I love the title of this book and the first chapter that i just read will never let me stand up until i have finish reading it.

Isoje David
Animals in Paradise

fayha wrote 400 days ago

Beautifully written really touching. I have read two chapters so far. I love the character of Emily. Really insightful story, On my watchlist will give it some well deserved stars

TimeTurner wrote 402 days ago

Welp these three chapters I've read so far are quite clear and they got me hooked...seriously I'm finding it a bit hard to stop reading. I do love the decriptive paragraphs and the character aren't one dimentional which is always good too.

fatema wrote 402 days ago

Its true it does seems to happen though shouldn't, as you said peoplel came in and influence the change, and to fit in the some people change things. It is better that we know what to change and what not to. spiritual learning should be contained not to change with phylsophy. Controlling should not be allowed.




fatema wrote 402 days ago

Its true it does seems to happen though shouldn't, as you said peoplel came in and influence the change, and to fit in the some people change things. It is better that we know what to change and what not to. spiritual learning should be contained not to change with phylsophy.




Tom Bye wrote 404 days ago

Hello Georgia-
book The Woman from E.A.R.L-

Read quite a good bit of this engaging book and found the read first class.
In fact, I got so engrossed in this tale i had difficulty putting it down , as they say-
I got a definite feel of involvement as I moved through the pages-
lots of Christian women readers will identify; with this story-

highly recommended and gets my six stars
tom bye
book-from hugs to kisses'
You might enjoy chapter 19 in mine - if time to read that is- thanks

fatema wrote 407 days ago

Well written with clear sentances. Love, care, sensation, friendship and spirtuality. The abusive issue.
A big book i read 4 chps and i will continue reading.

fatema wrote 407 days ago

Well written with clear sentances. Love, care, sensation, friendship and spirtuality.
a big book i read 4 chps and i will continue reading.

Kenneth Edward Lim wrote 408 days ago

Emily,
"The Women from EARL" is a piece of honest writing about foibles within the church. Emily using the first person narrative, comes across as a sympathertic character I can only cheer on because everything she says makes absolute sense. Your conversational style is engaging, your dialogue crisp and real. Thank you so much for the inspiring read.

Kenneth Edward Lim
The North Korean

Sharda D wrote 410 days ago

Hi Georgia,
the writing is beautiful, some lovely bits, especially liked the first paragraph about the tussle between spring and winter.
My only issue with the first chp was that not much happens, so there's rather a lot of internal monologue and as the characters are in Church it's all a litle static.
Will look at some more chps soon.
We're doing a reading swap, so pls take a look at mine when you can,
http://www.authonomy.com/books/42835/mr-unusually-s-circus-of-dreams/
All the best,
Sharda.

Atieno wrote 412 days ago

Hi Georgia,
I have nejoyed reading The Woman from E.A.R.L so much even though me and church parted.It is a book that delves deep into the way of life of many people and its told in humor and thought provoking insight! I think am watchlisting it right away but now am giving it 6 ******s that will no doubt push it higher. I would buy this and read and would love to see it in many bookstore.
Well done.
Josphine
Notime goes bye

fictionguy wrote 412 days ago

I usually don't read women's novel because of their one deminsional version of what men are. (That's okay. we have no idea what you are thinking either). But this was well done and I like the writing style. It should be a good seller for women. Good luck.