Book Review: Season of Faith by Sara Jane Jacobs

After an unexpected training accident, Tyler Armstrong’s world shifts. His injuries lead to an early retirement from the Navy and an unexpected battle with PTSD. Meanwhile, Amanda Jarvis, struggling to understand Tyler’s emotional distance, is torn between a potential life on Nathan’s Mountain and returning to her successful modeling career in New York. As Tyler grapples with his future, and Amanda with hers, a stormy night and a runaway truck might just bring clarity and a new shared dream.

This is the final book in The Season Series, Season of Faith.

Let me tell you, I was beyond excited to read it! After finishing book 2, Season of Deception, I couldn’t wait to dive into the last book of the series. Sara was amazing enough to gift me book 3 and let me tell you, it exceeded all my expectations!

Review of the book

Plot

I’ve got to say, this book really reeled me in right from the get-go.

The plot?

Oh, it was like a thrilling rollercoaster ride! I was zipping through the pages, totally engrossed in Nathan’s Mountain and the happenings there.

Talk about plot twists though! Big ones that practically gave me whiplash.

And trust me, you don’t want any spoilers, but be prepared for an emotional workout.

But what really got me was the way Sara used this book to unpack the characters’ growth. It was the final installment in the series, and you could really see just how far everyone had come.

The depth of her love for the soul behind them could not be measured.

Season of Faith by Sara Jane Jacobs

Setting

The setting of this book, Nathan’s Mountain, was like revisiting an old friend. It was heartening to see how it remained steadfast and unchanging, just like the presence of God in our lives. It felt like a reunion of sorts, filled with a sense of homecoming and nostalgia.

The Mountain was essentially the same, just as it was in the first book. One could argue that it’s this constancy that grounds the story and its characters.

This setting echoed the sentiment that no matter where life takes us or what changes occur, there are certain anchors in our lives that remain untouched, providing solace and familiarity.

It was moving to see how Nathan’s Mountain had evolved over time, not changing essentially, but becoming richer, filled with more love and people.

They stared at the future place of hope and healing, lost in their thoughts as the breeze kissed their faces.

Season of faith by sara jane jacobs

It was a testament to the author’s ability to create a sense of continuity and evolution simultaneously. Seeing our beloved characters return to this special place demonstrated the full circle that life often makes.

The book’s setting was truly a character in its own right, a testament to Sara’s exceptional storytelling prowess.

Characters

Let’s talk characters, shall we?

Sara has this uncanny ability to make her characters so darn real and full, it’s like you’ve known them your entire life. Amanda and Tyler, for instance, their relationship didn’t just blossom overnight, it matured slowly and with it, they grew as individuals too.

It’s not just about the lovey-dovey stuff, it’s about two people evolving together, understanding each other, and facing life’s curveballs. The authenticity of their relationship is something that really stands out.

But it wasn’t just about these two, oh no, Sara didn’t leave anyone behind. Each side character had their own arc, their own issues to deal with, and they grew right before our eyes.

That Aunt we all know? Yeah, she made some seriously radical changes to her life, and it was so satisfying to watch.

No character was left in the dust, and that’s what makes this book so good. It’s an ensemble cast where everyone gets their moment in the spotlight.

SPOILER ALERT 🚨

One aspect that struck me deeply was the author’s portrayal of Amanda’s father’s accident and subsequent death. It was heart-wrenching, to say the least. I was profoundly touched by the manner in which the author intertwined the themes of love and family bonds.

It was not just a love story but also a narrative about how the reach of our impact can extend beyond our life, touching others and bringing them closer to God.

A poignant moment was the funeral scene where an altar call led many to accept Jesus in their hearts due to the profound influence of this one man. It served as a reminder of what really matters in our lives. This beautiful and emotional narrative truly makes this book exceptional, and it’s one of the reasons why I hold it so close to my heart.

Themes

When reading Season of Faith, the themes of forgiveness, love, and family bonds were not just mere threads in a tapestry; they were the very fabric of the story itself. As I journeyed through the beautifully penned pages, I could feel these themes wrapped around every character, every plot twist, and every emotional climax.

The way that Sara intertwined these themes brought a sense of closure to the story that left me feeling deeply satisfied.

The characters didn’t just exist within the confines of these pages; they evolved, learned, loved, and, most importantly, they forgave. It’s these very aspects that made the book stand out for me, and I believe it’s what makes Season of Faith a truly exceptional read.

Writing Style

Sara’s writing style in Season of Faith is nothing short of brilliant, echoing the clean and well-flowing narrative I came to love in her first two books.

There’s a certain rhythm to her storytelling, a pace that carries you along the plot lines so smoothly that before you know it, you’re deeply engrossed in the world she’s crafted.

It’s this accurate and well-crafted pacing that allows each plot point to shine, each carrying its own weight and significance.

My thoughts on Season of Faith

Season of Faith is more than just a good read; it resonates deeply with me, becoming a part of my very existence. The emotional depth that Sara has brought into this book is simply astonishing. It’s as if the characters leaped out of the pages and became real people, facing real challenges.

Their trials, triumphs, and faith journeys were so real, so raw, that it became impossible not to empathize with them. What’s more, the strong faith themes eloquently woven into the narrative beautifully underscored the essence of true belief – love, forgiveness, and family.

These themes didn’t merely exist as concepts; they were lived and experienced by the characters, creating a compelling, authentic experience for me as a reader.

It’s this emotional connection and thematic brilliance that makes this book an easy 5 stars in my bookshelf. It’s a must-read, not just for avid readers, but for anyone seeking a story that touches the soul and leaves a lasting impact.

About the author

Hailing from sunny Florida, Sara Jane Jacobs uses her father’s hometown, Franklin, North Carolina, as inspiration for her debut novel, Season of Hope. Jacobs, a lover of Florida’s sunshine and pristine beaches, also cherishes the Great Smoky Mountains. A mother and Nonna, she resides with her cat family.