Anessia's Quest by Karen Arnpriester

This book follows the life of a woman born into dysfunction, disregard and disappointment. The story takes you on her journey. A journey that begins with abandonment, abuse, and physical injury. Pagne believes she is all alone, thrown away, but finds out that she is protected and guided by her guardian angel. A relationship develops between this lost child and a loving protector that manifests a unique method of communication. Pagne encounters other damaged people that become her family, friends and community. Her grace and compassion alter their destructive paths. People that she learns to trust, love and rely on. She moves through her life unaware of the impact she creates, her purpose on Earth. Her life is filled with tears, laughter, joy and heartbreak. She faces challenges that include ultimate betrayal, loss and shame. Challenges that are only bearable due to her trust and faith in heaven’s love and value for her. Love that is reinforced by her angel. She discovers the events that led to her mother’s indifference and neglect, and must decide how much grace she can extend to a woman she has hated for most of her life. The ultimate test of forgiveness. When she faces her death, Pagne discovers the true value and power of forgiveness and love. She is shown how her life created ripples that spread into waves of glorious influence. She was not an accident, she was placed on Earth with divine intent.

Goodreads Summary

The best part of this book is the way the author manages to evoke deliberate emotions in the reader.  This can be a tear-jerker if the reader is particularly prone to empathy.  Champagne is a wonderful character; unfortunately, she is born to an alcoholic mother.  Her life is tough right from the get-go.  The reader will likely make an immediate connection with this character.  She calls herself "Pagne." 

Pagne does have one advantage, she is protected by Chantal, who is sort of like her guardian angel.  Pagne is shuffled through monotonous foster homes-some better than others.  The reader will feel particularly bad for Chantal during this time.  The amazing quality Pagne really has is her ability to distribute her compassionate nature to others even while she is suffering herself.  

Overall, the reader will enjoy the focus on Pagne.  She is exceedingly easy to like and love.  The secondary characters are not dwelled too much upon, many are not the type the reader would like.  Chantal is an intriguing character, her purpose in the novel turns out to be a large one.  This book is recommended to adult readers.

4 Stars

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