Admitting that you have a problem is always the first step, right? But if you won't admit you have a problem, even to yourself, what are others around you supposed to do? As Piper Nelson quietly, and sometimes not so quietly, implodes, her family watches and you get the idea that most of them would prefer that she do it in private or at least out of view of the general public.The death of her daughter left her devastated. No one can tell anyone else how to grieve and the loss of a child is simply unimaginable. Piper's family has moved on from the tragedy. Her ex-husband is dealing with it in his own way. The only person that seems to be stuck is Piper.
In a series of bad decisions, we watch as she spirals out of control, tries to find her way and stumbles a little more. Piper's problems are only exacerbated by an emotionally distant mother and a self-absorbed sister. Not only is Piper lacking in familial support, she's lacking in friends. She literally has no support base.
As easy as it might be to feel sorry for Piper, you can't. She pushes people away that try to help and she can be rude, but she's trying. As unlikeable as she might be at times, you'll find yourself cheering for her. The fact that she's a good person is undeniable. She's simply someone that life has knocked down who is struggling to get back up.
I can't say enough good things about Shake Down the Stars. Renee Swindle's writing is so good that I read it straight through and didn't stop until the last page. If I had to compare her writing to another author, I'd say she writes in the style of a much better developed Susan Fales-Hill. If there's one book you have to read this year, this very well may be it.
352pp
Published: August 2013
Theme: Like A Star by Corinne Bailey Rae
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