Deb Elkink

While this is a well written book, it’s one I struggled to get into. There were times when the details of the story (especially where Sybil’s travels and “enlightenment” and Paige’s research were concerned. Occasionally, even the details of Libby’s soup making seemed more like lists than narrative).

The discovery that’s hinted at in the book’s description doesn’t even appear until about three-quarters of the way through the book. I think if it were dangled in front of the reader a little sooner, it wouldn’t be quite so tedious getting to the action and reveals that occur in the final quarter of The Red Journal.

Despite the challenge of connecting with Paige who seemed selfishly focused on her thesis and Sybil who was absolutely selfishly focused on herself and her travels, I’m glad I stuck it out to see Libby figure out her life.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.… (more)

Libby Walker's young life was anything but stable but this changed when she turned eight. Her grandmother recognized that her daughter was unable to care for Libby and she took her granddaughter to live with her. For the next forty-two years, until her death, it was Gram who counseled her, consoled her, and offered her unconditional love. Now, as Libby deals with grieving her grandmother's death and sorting through her belongings. she finds reasons to question her true identity. She was fifty years old and she still didn't truly know who she was. Who was her father? What was her legacy?

Author Deb Elkink shares LIbby's past life and present life in alternating time periods and I found myself uncertain at times but that didn't stop me reading! I loved seeing the relationship between Libby and her "Gram" and I was drawn into the mystery surrounding the recurring dreams that showed her as a child in a strange house. Libby wondered if 'Maybe her loss of Gram was reviving sorrow she surely must have felt back then, a little girl abandoned by her mother and never knowing a father.'

This book has so many facets: unknown parentage, addiction, and interracial love and marriage. Libby's search for her family brings her into contact with a young woman who is searching for facts to support her academic theories and their separate lives seem somehow connected. Could this red journal have answers for both of them?

The Red Journal offers both contemporary settings and historical fiction with a subtle faith message and it is a satisfying story that is worthy to be a part of The Mosaic Collection.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and I am voluntarily sharing my honest opinions in this review.… (more)