Amy K. Sorrells

Amy K, Sorrells

I can help

For I know the plans I have for you, to give you a hope and a future.

1911 in the Lower East Side of New York City - an area where most of the newly arrived immigrants found a place to call home. Many working for very minimal wages meant that the whole family worked, just to keep a roof over their heads. Sophie Rosenfeld was just one of the several daughters in the family, all of which worked at the Triangle Shirtwaist factory. History tells us the horror of what happens when even the most minimal of safety precautions are not taken.

A tiny baby who really had little likelihood to survive was just the one that Dr. Martin Couney would take in, doing what no one else wanted to do. This was the beginning of the incubator, a lifesaving machine, one that we have had personal experience with and are so very grateful for.

This incredibly well researched story is one you don’t want to miss!… (más)

When the war in Ukraine began earlier this year, I was reminded of a book that had been on my TBR list way too long. Then Sings My Soul by Amy K. Sorrells tells the story of Jakob Stewart, a 90-something American man who has ties to Ukraine. Through scenes from his past, and the explorations of of his daughter Nel 90 years later, a story of human suffering and horror unfolds. But more than that it is a story of how events shape a person. Jakob was a small boy of four when he is forced with his elder brother to flee Ukraine. He battles guilt and grief all of his life. Nel, who cherishes the memory of her parents and her growing up years, also lets events shape her. I found it very interesting how some in the story stay grounded in faith, while others seem to drift. Sorrells’ complex storytelling allows the reader to experience Jakob and Nel’s lives. I felt their pain, loss, and ultimately their redemption. I admit I ugly cried at the end. 😉 This was a difficult book to read. The writing is well-done, the narrative seems to flow effortlessly, yet the subject matter hurt my heart. I was immediately drawn into the lives of the main characters — they felt so much like someone I knew — so the connection with them felt so personal. I think this is the strongest aspect of the novel. Historical details, as well as information on lapidary arts, taught me too. The book ends well, but . . . there are unanswered questions that made me ponder how the characters’ journey would progress. Some don’t like unfinished stories, but Then Sings My Soul provided me with a means to finish the story how I wanted it to go. 😉

Another great book by Sorrells! Then Sings My Soul will make you feel and think. It also generated a great discussion with my book club.

Highly Recommended.

Great for Book Clubs.

Audience: Adults.

(I purchased this book from Amazon. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)… (más)

This was such a moving story of redemption and second chances. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. I loved the characters, especially Ernestine—the wise, Haitian nanny/housekeeper. I also loved that the setting is in south Alabama which made it even more relatable. The proverbs at the beginning of each chapter added to the richness of the story which was inspired by the story of King David’s daughter Tamar. The writing was both compelling and poetic—I just loved it! Highly recommended (but trigger warning for domestic abuse and rape).

Thank you to netgalley for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.… (más)