This is a hard book to write a review for. Why? Because in only fifty-one pages, I’ve been to war and back and had my heart ripped from my chest. How am I supposed to put that kind of experience into words?
I don’t typically read war stories or tearjerkers. Mostly because, deep within the walls of my crusty exterior, I’m actually a softie. Like, one whose eyes moisten upon occasion. Hard to believe, I know, but still true.
So Oh, The Fallen was different for me…and yet, in a way, not.
Not to mention that I’d actually never heard of the lovely Miss Harris prior to joining her launch team… (Sounds terrible, yeah, but how else am I supposed to meet people?)
Needless to say, I see why so many of my GR friends love Abigail Kay Harris’s writing. There is something so real, so raw, so genuine, and so powerful in her writing that immediately pulls you in. It’s convicting and encouraging at the same time, you know?
Oh, The Fallen especially was full of wisdom and just jam-packed with chill-inducing moments of true faith that really spoke to my soul. (Particularly after a lot of let-downs with popular Christian fiction. It is so refreshing to read something preachy. I’m serious.)
I’ll keep this review brief, since I really need to let y’all go and purchase this book…so what I want you to know about Oh, The Fallen is that it is pure and painful. Hopeful and hurting. Admittedly, yes, Harris’s writing didn’t always flow perfectly, and maybe I think the characters could’ve been a little more...what’s the word? Deepened, maybe? Defined? Either way, it was a lot to cram into fifty-one pages—particularly when you’re including the perspectives of five characters.
In the end? You need to read it. If you’ve ever felt pain or grief over the loss of a loved one, if you’ve never understood the purpose of war, if you’re just in the mood for something to tug on your heartstrings, I highly recommend Oh, The Fallen. It was so beautiful, so befitting this day (Memorial Day, here in the US), and I simply cannot wait to read Oh, The Lamented, coming out Veteran’s Day. As the granddaughter of a Vietnam vet, I felt a special connection to this story, and I know that worldwide (not just here in America, you guys), people will be touched by Harris’ novella of sacrifice and love.
Disclaimer: A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
About the Author
Abigail Kay Harris is a daughter of the King with a personal degree in book-nerdiness. A sister to seven, her passionate love of the written word and deeper meanings hidden in normal things leads her to spend her time reading, writing, using sarcasm, and defining obscure words. When she’s not chasing words, she enjoys watching shows, classic romance movies, tea, sunrises, and the outdoors, especially mountains, beaches, and forests.
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