Book Review: Shades of Blue

By Karen Kingsbury
Reviewed by J Renee Archer

Writing a review for a Karen Kingsbury book is difficult. What do you say about a book written by, arguably, the most popular Christian fiction writer? Of course, claiming that title can only be done by writing superb novels. If Kingsbury’s books were predictable, mediocre and far-fetched she would not have the loyal following she does. An author like Kingsbury does not rely on accolades and good reviews to sell books; her name on the cover cinches the sale. So I ask, what do you write in a Karen Kingsbury book review?
For all the readers who get their hands on a Kingsbury book the day it comes out, Shades of Blue will not disappoint. You will stay up far too late reading this tale, just as you have while reading others she has penned. For the rest of the world who may not be acquainted with this author and her books, I will tell you about her most recent release and you will then know what to expect from all Kingsbury’s books.

Shades of Blue is another riveting, emotion filled novel. Brad Cutler is weeks away from marrying the perfect girl. He reaches an impasse, of sorts, when he senses God telling him he can’t get married until he makes amends with his past. Laura, his fiancée, is unsettled about Brad’s need to resolve his past because his first love is involved. Meanwhile, Emma, the high school sweetheart, is trying to live a happy life and do what she can to shut out her pain. When Brad comes to town Emma and Brad must face each other and their past. With an approaching wedding on the line and the risk of making another big mistake Brad makes the difficult choice, he decides to follow God’s prompting and rely on God to do the rest.

Kingsbury creates characters that are natural, easy to relate to and easy to picture. At times, you may have to remind yourself that they are not real people. Her characters may as well be your best friends—you know enough about them and understand their personality that much by the end of the book. In Shades of Blue the character that stands out is Brad Cutler; not because he’s the main person but because he is a man of integrity. Brad strives to do God’s will even when it could cost him his marriage. It is refreshing to read about characters that uphold the way of Christ and build their lives and relationships on Him. Even though the book is fiction the characters still encourage the reader to be a better person.

Shades of Blue is a great read for more than the Kingsbury enthusiast. Read Shades of Blue for a powerful demonstration of love and forgiveness. Read Shades of Blue to realize the healing that can come from painful circumstances. Read Shades of Blue for an example of living in the ways of the Lord. May you be blessed and encouraged by reading Karen Kingsbury’s most recent novel.

Zondervan
ISBN: 978-0-310-26622-8