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Book Review Archives
Title: Life Interrupted
Author: Angel Renee Hovey
Publisher: Publish America
Copyright: 2009
ISBN-13: 978-1-60749-184-2
Genre: Christian Living
Book Size: 138 pages
Reviewer Karlene Jacobsen
Available through:
Publish America
Amazon
No girl grows up dreaming she would one day terminate a pregnancy. Nor does she imagine she'd face years of heartache, shame and rejection because of choices she made. Generally, she makes a choice to end a pregnancy because she is young, scared, ashamed, pushed, or a variety of other factors.
After the procedure, she's faced with guilt, more shame, and condemnation from family, friends and also herself.
Angel Renee Hovey is one such woman who, as a teenager, had little respect for those who fell into the trap and then felt unacceptable and unforgiveable. Her attitude showed in poetry she'd written in high school. It wasn't until she was in her twenties that she came face to face with her own unplanned pregnancy and made a decision that would dramatically change her life. It took years, as is the case for many, to experience the healing offered by God.
Why? Because many "Christian" folk feel as Angel did before faced with the tragedy.
The subject matter of abortion is--to the unbeliever--controversial, while to those who follow Christ it is a "black and white" matter. To put it mildly, it is volatile and incites heated debate from those on both sides of the issue. Some sit on the fence, bobbing their heads back and forth, listening to the arguments of both, indifferent. Either way, many suffer from the effects of abortion, whether it is the women or those warring to make their voices heard.
Most evangelicals agree--it's the unborn who is the victim. But are there other victims? Ms. Hovey contends in her book Life Interrupted that the women who have the abortions are also victims. They have heard and listened to the voices of judgment, both in their hearts and from those around them. Many feel they have no other choice except to go through with the procedure. Afterwards they suffer, often-times not knowing whether they can share the pain with anyone or find redemption, love and acceptance.
In 1995, Ms. Hovey made a choice that would change her life forever. Ten years later, another choice was made that constituted another life-altering shift-one involving the cleansing power only the Lord can administer.
This transformation in 2005 took place because of a vision, followed by internet research, and then finally some time spent truly mourning the tragedy at the feet of the Lord. It was here He showed her how much He cared and that there is no sin so great that He isn't greater still.
Throughout Life Interrupted, Ms. Hovey shares Scriptural insights, testimonies of women who have had abortions, and exhortations to open communication with our children, forgive and show mercy.
Ms. Hovey's passion to see that other young women are safeguarded against the tragedy of abortion, and an administration of healing provided for those who succumb to the wiles of the deception, is evident. It is also apparent through her own testimony that she was wounded severely by those closest to her, sparking this desire to be a voice for others who have or may one day face similar stories.
Her passion is commendable and warranted. However, it seems that the wounds inflicted on her have added an abrasive feel to Life Interrupted that may prevent the reader from developing the compassion for these women that I'm certain she's hoping for.
The pages are packed with instruction, Scripture, and personal references. Throughout each of the one hundred thirty-eight pages the reader is exhorted to forgive, pray, communicate, and love. Most of Life Interrupted seems geared to those who, like the author in her teen years, are angry and unforgiving toward women who've aborted.
Several times, the topic was lost in the midst of the teaching, but always came back to the issue by end of the chapter. There are ten chapters, followed by a questions and suggestions section, then a website listing for further information.
It is important to extend mercy and grace to women and men who've been affected by abortion. Chances are this issue has knocked at more doors than we realize.
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