cover image Victim of Grace: When God's Goodness Prevails

Victim of Grace: When God's Goodness Prevails

Robin Jones Gunn. Zondervan, $15.99 trade paper (208p) ISBN 978-0-310-32479-9

Choosing to look at adversity as the outcome of God's grace instead of as the end of a dream, the bestselling author Gunn (Sisterchicks series) gives a new definition to the term "victim." Personal stories, mixed with biblical stories of women who undergo loss and challenge, help to create a big picture. First chapters serve more as an introduction to the author and the concept. Lessons come into sharper focus later when Gunn gives helpful advice gleaned from personal experiences like the death of her father, temptation in her marriage, and forgiveness of those who have betrayed her. What if we aren't victims of circumstance, but victims of grace? she suggests. That shift in perspective asks readers to ponder whether God might actually be accomplishing his greatest purpose for our lives in the midst of disappointment instead of dashing dreams. Gunn has a gift for shedding new light on biblical passages as well. Discussion questions in the back of the book offer opportunities for further insight. Agent: Janet Grant, Books & Such Literary Agency (Apr.)