I’m becoming more and more convinced that isolation is one of the hardest parts of being sick. (I am so glad to be free!)

But I am also thankful for one of the perks of isolation: time.

A few months ago, a couple of authors I follow on social media shared a trailer for Redeeming Love. I rarely get excited about new movies these days, but this one left me looking forward to its release. I was familiar with the book by Francine Rivers, and quickly ordered a copy to read from ThriftBooks. My goal was to finish the book before I saw the movie. (I didn’t know that the book was 468 pages long!!!)

Over 10 years ago, when we lived in Skagit Valley, a good friend had let me borrow her copy of Redeeming Love. Honestly, it was a hard read for me and I couldn’t get past the first few chapters, so I gave it back. (Thanks for trying, Genni!)

At first I hesitated to open my copy; I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to handle the content, and it’s probably one of the longest books I’ve ever tried to read. I’m not a big fiction reader; I almost always read nonfiction. But about a month ago, I read 70 pages in one night. I couldn’t put it down. (I found out later on a podcast that my new-to-me copy is a revised and “redeemed” copy that has some updates and edits. I think that made it a little easier for me to read.)

Life happened, including Christmas and my kids being out of school for three weeks. Reading for fun is one of the first things to go when life gets busy. But when I was isolated in my room for 10 days, I got very bored very fast.

I was able to finish the book in just a few days. I had a hard time putting it down. It is a powerful story, with a beautiful theme of God’s incredible love and faithful redemption. It definitely wasn’t an easy read, but I thought it was worth it.

I couldn’t help but see some of myself in parts of Angel’s story… how your past can haunt you, and how shame is real. But I was also reminded of how God redeemed my story, and how He brought my husband into my life in His perfect timing. (I’ve always referred to Jon as my kinsman-redeemer, similar to Ruth & Boaz.)

As I tearfully finished the book, I was overwhelmed with love and gratitude. In awe of God’s love and His redemption.

The movie releases this Friday, and I can’t wait to see it! One thing I’m most excited about is that Francine actually wrote the initial screenplay, and the director made changes with her. She was also on set for some of the filming (which was completed in a total of 30 days, just 24 hours before South Africa shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic). Francine speaks very highly of the movie, and I think it’s a good thing when an author is excited about how their book is brought to life onscreen.

Here are a couple links to podcasts I’ve enjoyed listening to, as well as links to the movie trailer and book. I hope you’ll check them out! I’d love to hear if you’ve read the book, or if you have any other favorites from Francine!

• Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers
• Redeeming Love movie trailer
• Redeeming Love: A Movie Companion Podcast (I loved the behind-the-scenes look at the movie, and appreciated the talk with Brandon & Brittany Lake!)
• Episode 356: Francine Rivers + Redeeming Love – That Sounds Fun with Annie F. Downs