Review: I have seen the trailer for the movie version of "The Song", but I have not yet seen the movie. I was drawn to the book based on what I had seen in the movie trailer and because Chris Fabry lent his writing prowess to the novel. The foreword implies that "The Song" is a resource for readers in romantic relationships, so I wondered if connection would be lacking for a single reader. It is definitely easy to see why this story is so relevant to couples, but its message of love, temptation, and forgiveness is universal.
"The Song"takes readers on a journey through the life of a relationship. Rather than focusing on the idyllic "falling in love stage," it delves into real-life trials and tribulations that couples can face. The scope of "The Song" is broader than some of Fabry's other novels. "The Song" brings his story full circle, packing several years into its pages. I felt like an outside observer reading the course of events. Usually that leaves me feeling disconnected, but I found myself quickly connecting to the story and the characters. It definitely reads like a movie, making it a quick read.
Rose and Jed are likable characters from the beginning of the novel. With their likability and love quickly established, the subsequent events become tangibly painful. The rifts that develop in their marriage are difficult to witness, especially knowing that such events really happen to married couples. The plot takes us down the rocky road of bad decisions. While I don't agree with Jed's decisions, his character shows that anyone is susceptible to temptation. He is so confident in his morals and faith in the beginning of the novel, but just one ill-made decision starts him down a slippery-slope of deceit and betrayal. From the prologue we know that Jed's path leaves him lingering between life and death. We know the big picture of the plot - the love and the heartbreak. Anyone who has seen the movie will also know the ultimate outcome of Jed's life and his marriage. Like any good song, "The Song" is a novel that can be re-read even though its story is well-known.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers through their book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Summary from Tyndale House Publishers: Jed King’s life has been shaped by the songs and mistakes of his famous father. He wants to sing his own song, but the words and melody are elusive. Haunted by the scars inflicted by his broken family, Jed’s dreams of a successful music career seem out of reach . . . until he meets Rose.
As romance quickly blooms, Jed pens a new song and suddenly finds himself catapulted into stardom. But with this life of fame comes temptation, the same temptation that lured his father so many years ago.
Set in the fertile mid-South, this quest for success leads Jed and Rose on a journey that will force them to deal with the pain of loss, failure, and the desire to be who God created them to be.
Lyrical and deeply honest, The Song asks the hard questions of love and forgiveness. When even the wisest of men are fools in love, can true love persevere?
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