Comments on: Guest Post: Elizabeth Lamar on a Deathbed Secret

By: Todd Jones

Todd Jones — Wed, 11 Jun 2014 19:42:48 +0000

Elizabeth: I took the bait on this little gem for the same reason: Ann Patchett’s blurb made me want to read it. It was more than worth its price as it tells a slow, gentle and enticing story that invites you in alongside Father Declan in his efforts to discover the real story of Enda and Kevin. Father Declan made this novel for me, and not just because we are both clergy. Reinhold Niebuhr said that there is no such thing as a pure human motive. Father Declan is a faithful servant of God who also reveals that he struggles to live with the mix of motives and urges that dwell in all of our souls. A Rabbi named Edwin Friedman said once that “Secrets are the cholesterol of family life. They block the flow of truth.” I believe he is right, but this book makes me wonder if sometimes they can serve a larger and deeper good. Thanks, Elizabeth, for your reminder of a very good read!

By: Tracy Crawford

Tracy Crawford — Thu, 22 May 2014 20:13:03 +0000

I read this book years ago (decades ago?), and it’s just as you describe it, Elizabeth. Well-written review!

By: Suann Davis

Suann Davis — Thu, 22 May 2014 13:09:55 +0000

Beautifully written, Elizabeth, and you really capture the tugs of life I constantly feel. Loved your post and will find that book soon!

By: Betsy Wills

Betsy Wills — Thu, 22 May 2014 12:34:53 +0000

I really like your writing style Elizabeth. Beautifully concise.