Meant To Be

by Jenn Faulk

[phyllish]

A moving story of redemption and faith

My rating is 4.5 stars

Right now, my eyes are damp from the emotions which leaked through as I read this deeply moving account of Lucy and Jude. It was not at all what I was expecting from the beginning. Far more than the story of second chances, there are so many rich spiritual lessons wrapped up the pages of this novel, and so many heart-wrenching moments.

At first glance, it is the story of an idealistic Christian, Lucy, who, after making a mistaken assumption about Jude’s life, decides that God has sent her to be the one to change the hearts of Jude’s entire band. Her approach is simple – to love them and show them kindness, no matter what. What Lucy discovers is what her heart looks like when the bottom falls out of her life.

I wasn’t a fan of Jude right away. His lifestyle let much to be desired and his pride had him allowing Lucy to believe things about him that couldn’t have been much further from the truth. Yet, God wasn’t finished with him and I loved watching him slowly begin to listen to the conviction of the Holy Spirit and to watch him transform from a man focused on living after the flesh to a man with a heart for the Lord and doing what is right and good.

In the back of my mind is a vague memory of the book starting slowly, yet I was so overwhelmed with emotion at the end and was so caught up in the story, that doesn’t even really matter to me. I often will rate a book that ends well despite a slow start a little lower yet I can’t bring myself to do this. I really loved this story – my heart was so thoroughly invested in it.

There are some references to drugs and alcohol being used though they are shown as being negative. Lucy and Jude struggle with staying pure in their relationship with one another and a few scenes deal with this. Desire and sexual tension are topics that are dealt with (tastefully and remaining clean) making it more appropriate for a more mature audience.
Read my full review at at Among the Reads


I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.