Title: The Department of Lost & Found
Author: Allison Winn Scotch
First published May 1, 2007
336 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780061161421 (ISBN10: 006116142X)
Rating: 3.71
Overview
Allison Winn Scotch’s debut novel, The Department of Lost & Found, is a heartwarming and witty exploration of one woman’s journey to self-discovery. Natalie Miller’s life is upended when she receives a daunting diagnosis: breast cancer.
Forced to reevaluate her priorities, Natalie embarks on a quest to uncover the root of her dissatisfaction. This quest leads her to reconnect with five loves-of-her-life and confront her relationships with friends, family, and colleagues.
Along the way, she discovers that the things that truly matter in life are not what she expected. This novel is a poignant reminder to cherish the present and embrace the unexpected, and is sure to leave readers reflecting on their own lives.
About the Author
Hello there! I’m an author with eight bestselling novels under my belt, including CLEO MCDOUGAL REGRETS NOTHING, IN TWENTY YEARS, and TIME OF MY LIFE. My latest book, THE REWIND, is set to release in November 2022 through Berkley Books, and I’m excited to share it with you all.
As someone who’s experienced the harshness of reviews, I only post about books that I’ve truly enjoyed. That’s why you’ll only see positive reviews from me.
Editoral Review
Abide With Me by E. Lynn Harris is a powerful novel that explores themes of love, loss, and identity.
Harris was a best-selling author who was known for his ability to delve into issues of race, sexuality, and class in his writing. First published in 1999, Abide With Me is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that continues to resonate with readers today.
The novel follows the story of Bishop T.K. Wilson, a prominent African-American preacher who struggles to balance his public persona with his personal desires. As Wilson navigates the complexities of his relationships with his wife, children, and congregation, he is forced to confront the reality of his own sexual desires and the impact that they may have on his career and reputation.
Harris’ writing is both sensitive and bold, and he skillfully uses Wilson’s story to explore broader issues of gender and sexual identity within the African-American community. The book is set against the backdrop of a changing America, and Harris seamlessly weaves historical events and cultural references into the narrative.
He also creates a vivid sense of place, painting a vivid picture of the bustling city of Atlanta and its complex social fabric. One of the strengths of the book is the depth and complexity of its characters.
Wilson is a fascinating character, and Harris does an excellent job of exploring his motivations and conflicts. The book also features a number of interesting supporting characters, including Wilson’s wife, his daughter, and his longtime friend and confidante.
Each character is fully realized and has a distinctive voice and personality. The pacing of the book is also strong, and the plot unfolds in a way that keeps the reader engaged and invested in the outcome.
Harris builds tension and suspense throughout the book and does an excellent job of tying up loose ends and resolving conflicts in a satisfying way. However, while Abide With Me is a compelling and well-crafted novel, it does have some limitations.
At times, the book can feel a bit didactic, and Harris’ writing can be heavy-handed in its approach to social commentary. Additionally, the book may not be suitable for all readers due to its explicit sexual content and mature themes.
Overall, Abide With Me is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that is well worth reading. It is a testament to E.
Lynn Harris’ skill as a writer and his commitment to exploring issues of race, sexuality, and identity. While the book may not be for everyone, those who are willing to engage with its challenging themes and complex characters will be rewarded with a deeply moving and memorable reading experience.
I would give the book a rating of 8 out of 10, based on its strong writing, compelling characters, and engaging plot.
