Christi's Reviews > Knowing You

I loved the ease of reading Knowing You. It was almost like listening to a story told by an old friend. May and Lee are both such sweet souls, and I love that they had one another during both good times and bad. That unwavering support of such a strong friendship is goals. The author did an excellent job of filling in the gaps from the first two books, the details from previous novels were added in so seamlessly that it made reading this as a standalone perfection.

Racism runs rampant in this novel, and it truly made my blood boil to read it. How people can see themselves better than others is just beyond me. I am white but I was raised to believe that we are all God’s children, and that race and culture is something to be admired and respected. For a long time I thought that was how everyone believed, so when I experienced racism for the first time at a young age it was a complete shock to me. I am in a biracial marriage and even in 2023 I am shunned for it, not only by perfect strangers but even members of my husband’s family! It angers me and breaks my heart but all I can do is pray for those people and live what I believe: that we are all equal. When I read about what Lee and May would face it hit very close to home, but the redemption made by some gives me hope and reminds me that God is bigger than racism and that He can soften anyones hearts. True redemption is so magnificently beautiful!

One of my favorite parts of this novel were the parts about the Japanese culture. I always love learning new things about other cultures and seeing the world through different lenses, so I soaked up all of the cultural tidbits that are sprinkled throughout the narrative with earnest. I found myself looking up different words as a I read and even got into a discussion with a friend of mine who has studied the Japanese culture extensively. So fascinating!

May’s strength in her faith was also so inspiring. Turning to the Lord in all things in prayer is something I’ve always struggled with, but to May it’s as natural as breathing. Oh, to have that kind of relationship with my Lord! It is clear that she lives what she believes and it was a sound reminder to myself to do the same.

Knowing You is hands down one of my favorite novels of the year! Add in a mystery, theft, and love on top of the cultural and historical aspects, plus strong writing and endearing characters, and you’ve got one novel that truly has it all!

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.