Leaving Yesterday review

I always enjoy reading fiction that makes me think about my life and things close to my heart. Currently, that involves parenting. (Big surprise with four kids, I know!)

One of the dilemmas of parenting is walking the fine line between protecting your child and making them take responsibility for their actions and the consequences that stem from their actions.

Leaving Yesterday by Kathryn Cushman follows Alisa Stewart. A mom and Christian who says and does all the right things. She leads the women's ministry at her church. She leads grief seminars to help others find healing, but she feels like her life is falling apart. One child was murdered for sharing his faith. One has become the prodigal. Her marriage is in trouble. When it looks like the prodigal has changed his ways, a police officer starts asking questions about an unsolved murder. Was her son involved? Alisa is torn. Her son has changed, he is a new creation, doesn't he deserve to move on with his life? But if he was involved, should he face the consequences of his actions? Is it her responsibility to make sure the truth comes to light?

This is the first book I have read written by Kathryn Cushman. I really enjoyed her writing. It is easy to read. Actually, I was hooked. I kept wondering, if I was in that situation, what I would do. I would like to say I would help my child face reality and consequences, but without actually being in that situation, I'm not sure I could accurately guess my actions....

It was a page turner. Alisa's internal struggle and ultimately dealing with the consequences of her own decisions was captivating!

Kathryn Cushman is a graduate of Samford University with a degree in pharmacy. Her two previous novels were A Promise to Remember and Waiting for Daybreak, a finalist in Women's Fiction for the Inspirational Reader's Choice Award. Kathryn and her family currently live in Santa Barbara, CA.

This book was provided for review by Bethany House publishers. No money was received for this review and the opinions expressed are my honest opinions.