THE WEDDING SHOP, by Rachel Hauck

This is a novel, a work of Christian fiction. THE WEDDING SHOP is a series book and continues in a book called THE WEDDING CHAPEL, also by Rachel Hauck. THE WEDDING SHOP begins with a Prologue, which introduces the reader to this bookand gives a feel for it. This book spreads out over 33 chapters. It ends with Discussion Questions about the book, followed by Acknowledgments. This book ends with the first chapter the the sequel which continues THE WEDDING SHOP, THE WEDDING CHAPEL. Each chapter in this book is written in the point of view of various character in the novel. Many chapters are given fictionalized months and years, or names of settings. Rachel Hauck's book THE WEDDING SHOP, was named as bestseller by The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today. This book was also named as Inspirational Novel of the Year by The Romantic Times. It also was a RITA finalist.

I read through this book quickly. I found it to be well-written and interesting. I liked it better than a former novel that I had recently reviewed but that's just me. I didn't get drawn into this book until the 5th or 6th chapter of this book. That's still near the beginning of this book. The author goes back and forth in time because she ties two lead characters together. Separated by time, the author shows how our lives can be intertwined. I can't say how true to life the twists and turns of their lives turned out being. Of course, the author sees to it that most of her main characters experience positive outcomes. I expected that. The author shows us that the main characters were on spiritual journeys. I saw their lessons and awakenings. Yet she doesn't get heavily into theology and I can't see how her style can be viewed as "preachy." I enjoyed the suspense of wondering how things would turn out with the main characters. I must admit that a couple of times, I peeked ahead in this book to get clues about the outcome. This novel includes romance and relationshis without getting syrupy. By syrupy, I mean overly-sentimental. I would mentally cheer or curse character throughout this book, especially during dramatic scenes. I had to remind myself that this is all fiction. So this book has impact.

This is Christian fiction. But as entertaining and edifying as Christian fiction is, Christians need to remember some things. Christian fiction should never become our primary spiritual food. WE're to reserve this for the Bible and books baased on Scripture. Christian fiction, because of idealistic outcomes, can make us discontented with our lives, marriages, congregations, and friendships. But I recommend this book for non-Christians who enjoy reading romances. In reading this book, they'll find more than entertainment. The hope is that as events unfold, God will draw non-Christian readers to Himself. If this is the author's purpose in writing this book, she does a great job.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Book Look Bloggers in exchange for my honest review. I wasn't required to give a positive review of this book.