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Breathing on Her Own
Molly Tipton and her husband are looking forward to retirement, but Molly’s life suddenly spirals out of control when her oldest daughter is involved in a terrible accident. An icy road and a sharp turn leave one woman dead, another clinging to life.
While two families grieve, details emerge that reveal Molly’s daughter was driving under the influence. As she prepares her daughter for the prospect of a vehicular homicide lawsuit, Molly discovers her oldest child is not the only one injured and forced to deal with past mistakes. If it’s true that time heals all wounds, what are we to do with our scars?
While two families grieve, details emerge that reveal Molly’s daughter was driving under the influence. As she prepares her daughter for the prospect of a vehicular homicide lawsuit, Molly discovers her oldest child is not the only one injured and forced to deal with past mistakes. If it’s true that time heals all wounds, what are we to do with our scars?
340 pages, Paperback
First published March 23, 2014
90 people are currently reading
1009 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Waters
14 books30 followersRebecca Waters views writing as both a gift and a ministry. As a teacher education professor at Cincinnati Christian University, Rebecca’s writing focused on journals of professional education. following her tenure at the university, Rebecca turned her pen to freelance writing, writing novels, speaking engagements, and coaching new authors. Her books include Breathing On Her Own and Libby's Cuppa Joe and Writing to Publish. Rebecca is a frequent contributor to Chicken Soup for the Soul. “My goal in everything I write is to serve God.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
July 15, 2014
I do not typically read Christian fiction, but I read this book because my library was having a program with Ms. Waters. I was blown away by the writing and by the subject! The main character Molly seemed to have it all together until the unthinkable happened - her daughter was driving a car and wrecked, leaving another woman dead. Molly's faith was shaken but even more so when learning that her daughter had been drinking and could be paralyzed. Taking care of her grandchildren and helping with the fallout of the car crash becomes the focus of Molly's life.
The parts of the book that touched my heart the most involved Molly's struggle to reconcile her reality with the teachings of her church. This book does not have one of those "let's say a quick prayer and now everything is fixed" moments. Molly has real problems and struggles in her own relationship with God. But God is a real presence in the lives of her family and, while things aren't resolved in the way that Molly would choose, there is grace and peace in the resolutions.
I may not read much Christian fiction, but I can't wait to read what Rebecca Waters writes next!
The parts of the book that touched my heart the most involved Molly's struggle to reconcile her reality with the teachings of her church. This book does not have one of those "let's say a quick prayer and now everything is fixed" moments. Molly has real problems and struggles in her own relationship with God. But God is a real presence in the lives of her family and, while things aren't resolved in the way that Molly would choose, there is grace and peace in the resolutions.
I may not read much Christian fiction, but I can't wait to read what Rebecca Waters writes next!
September 10, 2014
From the first sentence I was hooked. The events that happened in this story would definitely shake my world as a mom. I like how the mother struggled with her faith, her hope, and her beliefs throughout the book. It's good to walk in those footsteps rather than see the over confident character who never waivers or questions real life. This family journeyed together throughout and sacrificed for each other. Also, there are several themes going on that keep a reader interested and wondering how the author will bring closure in the end. I did wonder how the daughter at times accepted her situation as easily as she did, but her personality may have been able to absorb her reality. You would never know that this is Rebecca Waters first novel. I did not want to put it down. I enjoyed reading this book. It certainly kept my interest and I recommend it!
July 27, 2014
Breathing On Her Own by Rebecca Waters is a story of trusting in God and that His plans for the future are far better than anything one could imagine. Life for the Tipton family changes dramatically when eldest and married, daughter Laney has a car accident which leaves her seriously injured and her friend Tori dead.
The whole family, headed by parents Travis and Molly take it in turns to keep a vigil by Laney's bed and to look after her children Hunter and Ellie. Their prayers are answered as Laney begins the slow road of recovery, by breathing on her own.
In the rehab unit, Laney meets Beverly, a very bubbly Christian, who encourages Laney to do things and to follow God's manual, as she calls the Bible. Laney, in her turn, will also be used to encourage young Eli on his journey to recovery. Whilst Molly will stand alongside Eli's mother Sarah.
The novel is fast paced as the reader gets caught up in the characters lives, and can empathise with both Laney's frustration and her family's deep love for her.
The novel demonstrates how all God's children can have interlinked lives, as the characters put the principles of faith into action. In the tough times, focus on God and prayers are so vital to survive and thrive. The theme of forgiveness, both on a personal level and to reach out and forgive others, also runs throughout the novel.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Rebecca Waters debut novel, and as a mother and grandmother was challenged by it...how would I react if Laney was my daughter? I urge you, pick up a copy and challenge your faith, you won't regret it.
The whole family, headed by parents Travis and Molly take it in turns to keep a vigil by Laney's bed and to look after her children Hunter and Ellie. Their prayers are answered as Laney begins the slow road of recovery, by breathing on her own.
In the rehab unit, Laney meets Beverly, a very bubbly Christian, who encourages Laney to do things and to follow God's manual, as she calls the Bible. Laney, in her turn, will also be used to encourage young Eli on his journey to recovery. Whilst Molly will stand alongside Eli's mother Sarah.
The novel is fast paced as the reader gets caught up in the characters lives, and can empathise with both Laney's frustration and her family's deep love for her.
The novel demonstrates how all God's children can have interlinked lives, as the characters put the principles of faith into action. In the tough times, focus on God and prayers are so vital to survive and thrive. The theme of forgiveness, both on a personal level and to reach out and forgive others, also runs throughout the novel.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Rebecca Waters debut novel, and as a mother and grandmother was challenged by it...how would I react if Laney was my daughter? I urge you, pick up a copy and challenge your faith, you won't regret it.
January 20, 2020
Thank you in advance to JustRead and the publisher for providing a complimentary copy to review. All words are my own in this review and a positive review was not required.
This is the first book I’ve read by Rebecca Walters and this is also her “debut” book. This heart-wrenching novel was first published in 2014, and was re-published in October 2019.
The cover depicts the “what should’ve been” in the book – an older couple with grown adult children – looking forward to retirement in sunny Florida. And, that drew me in, along with the blurb for the book.
After their oldest daughter has a life-altering accident; the couple, their son-in-law, and grandchildren face changes in their lives finding “normal” again. Molly doesn’t believe that they’ll ever find it. Challenge after challenge comes their way – Laney’s recovery, legal issues, housing issues. Even dealing with the past. Yet, their faith in God and by using prayer gets them through the challenges.
“Breathing on her Own” is a clean; Christian read with what some might describe as heavy themes of faith, redemption, and forgiveness. God is very much present in the book. It is told entirely from Molly’s POV in third person form.
Waters’ writing is realistic, vivid, and at times overwhelming. She carefully crafts an emotional roller-coaster ride that is hard to put down. The story is very engaging and realistic. Anyone who has been a victim of DUI or in a car accident in general, might have some triggering effects. Waters’ doesn’t shy away from the topic as to the emotional effects; the legal effects tended to only skim the surface. The physical effects were also introduced, and realistically portrayed.
There will be some who might find the heavy Christian themes a bit off-putting. I did not. The way the book is written, the reader might find themselves questioning their own faith and wondering about the choices they make.
The only issue I had was some transitions of time in the story – some were rushed, and others needed to “move on”. Other than that I found it to be well-written with a natural flow. It was an easy to read novel, and very easy to get lost in. There were times I couldn’t put it down.
The characters were realistic in their circumstances. Molly was the mother who tended more to blame someone else than accept her daughter’s responsibility, and even Laney skated by with not being able to remember. Molly’s faith tended to waver back and forth despite what she was trying to tell her daughter. Laney’s “come to Jesus” moment was a bit too quick for the situation.
There were minor issues that did tended to be distracting – a potential criminal and civil legal issue were introduced and dismissed quickly, and Molly’s lack of judgment when it came to a “letter” her daughter wanted to mail after the accident.
Overall, this was one of those books that evoked emotional reactions, but left me feeling hopeful at the end – God is there and will be there. Not in the way we want, in the way he thinks we need. I did enjoy it quite a bit though.
Recommended for those who enjoy Christian and faith-based reads.
This is the first book I’ve read by Rebecca Walters and this is also her “debut” book. This heart-wrenching novel was first published in 2014, and was re-published in October 2019.
The cover depicts the “what should’ve been” in the book – an older couple with grown adult children – looking forward to retirement in sunny Florida. And, that drew me in, along with the blurb for the book.
After their oldest daughter has a life-altering accident; the couple, their son-in-law, and grandchildren face changes in their lives finding “normal” again. Molly doesn’t believe that they’ll ever find it. Challenge after challenge comes their way – Laney’s recovery, legal issues, housing issues. Even dealing with the past. Yet, their faith in God and by using prayer gets them through the challenges.
“Breathing on her Own” is a clean; Christian read with what some might describe as heavy themes of faith, redemption, and forgiveness. God is very much present in the book. It is told entirely from Molly’s POV in third person form.
Waters’ writing is realistic, vivid, and at times overwhelming. She carefully crafts an emotional roller-coaster ride that is hard to put down. The story is very engaging and realistic. Anyone who has been a victim of DUI or in a car accident in general, might have some triggering effects. Waters’ doesn’t shy away from the topic as to the emotional effects; the legal effects tended to only skim the surface. The physical effects were also introduced, and realistically portrayed.
There will be some who might find the heavy Christian themes a bit off-putting. I did not. The way the book is written, the reader might find themselves questioning their own faith and wondering about the choices they make.
The only issue I had was some transitions of time in the story – some were rushed, and others needed to “move on”. Other than that I found it to be well-written with a natural flow. It was an easy to read novel, and very easy to get lost in. There were times I couldn’t put it down.
The characters were realistic in their circumstances. Molly was the mother who tended more to blame someone else than accept her daughter’s responsibility, and even Laney skated by with not being able to remember. Molly’s faith tended to waver back and forth despite what she was trying to tell her daughter. Laney’s “come to Jesus” moment was a bit too quick for the situation.
There were minor issues that did tended to be distracting – a potential criminal and civil legal issue were introduced and dismissed quickly, and Molly’s lack of judgment when it came to a “letter” her daughter wanted to mail after the accident.
Overall, this was one of those books that evoked emotional reactions, but left me feeling hopeful at the end – God is there and will be there. Not in the way we want, in the way he thinks we need. I did enjoy it quite a bit though.
Recommended for those who enjoy Christian and faith-based reads.
March 31, 2014
Rebecca Water’s Debut Novel Breathing on Her Own is so relatable. I love mature characters dealing with real-life problems. This faith-based story takes the Tipton family through a trauma where only God’s grace and mercy can keep them. Molly Tipton finds it difficult not to be in control. Her daughter’s auto accident and possible Vehicular Homicide charges are things she can’t control. The battle to fix a situation and persuade God to see things her way is a challenge any woman can relate to.
The character of Molly, a mother, grandmother and church-goer resonated with me. During this chaotic time Molly has to be more like a mom with her grandchildren and her emotions and physical strengths are stretched to the limits. The Tipton’s tragedy leads Molly to realize how her relationship with her daughter must change. I loved the opportunity to get into her head and walk with her through the discovery of her true feelings and her true faith.
Every parent hopes to raise their child to make wise decisions, and when they don’t, it is heartbreaking. Rebecca Waters’ breath-catching description of the nuances of the family dynamics and faith challenges of a horrendously poor choice draws readers into a you-are-there feeling. Each character is believable, and their reaction to various scenarios caused me to nod my head in understanding. The grandchildren’s reactions to their mother’s hospitalization hurt my heart. Rebecca penned details void of fluff and easy fixes.
I finished this engaging book over the weekend. Now I am curious to see what Rebecca’s next novel will be like.
The character of Molly, a mother, grandmother and church-goer resonated with me. During this chaotic time Molly has to be more like a mom with her grandchildren and her emotions and physical strengths are stretched to the limits. The Tipton’s tragedy leads Molly to realize how her relationship with her daughter must change. I loved the opportunity to get into her head and walk with her through the discovery of her true feelings and her true faith.
Every parent hopes to raise their child to make wise decisions, and when they don’t, it is heartbreaking. Rebecca Waters’ breath-catching description of the nuances of the family dynamics and faith challenges of a horrendously poor choice draws readers into a you-are-there feeling. Each character is believable, and their reaction to various scenarios caused me to nod my head in understanding. The grandchildren’s reactions to their mother’s hospitalization hurt my heart. Rebecca penned details void of fluff and easy fixes.
I finished this engaging book over the weekend. Now I am curious to see what Rebecca’s next novel will be like.
January 22, 2020
Life never seems to turn out the way we expect. Whether it's feeling like we're invincible until we discover we aren't, or we try to control and micromanage everything until we discover we can't. Regardless of our area of need, God has the ability to meet us where we are at. But while coming to faith (or renewing it) can feel like a giant weight is lifted off of our shoulders, it doesn't mean that we don't have to deal with any earthly consequences from our carnal choices. This story dived deep into one family's reaction and healing following a terrible accident. Everyone handles trauma in different ways and the author did a beautiful job of painting some of those reactions through Laney's family members. You can't force another to come to Christ or be a good person, but you can pray for them and offer encouragement. You can't take back your bad choices, but you can choose where you go from them. Life is messy and has its fair share of heartache, but when we lean on the Lord, He can help mend our broken hearts.
This was my first read by this author but I would most definitely be interested in reading more from her in the future. I can't imagine being placed in the same situation as the characters in this one, but their saga fully gripped my emotions. What if? No one wants to ask that question but it's one that's imagined here in a way that forces you to consider. The author did an amazing job with this one.
*I received a copy of this book through JustRead Tours. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
This was my first read by this author but I would most definitely be interested in reading more from her in the future. I can't imagine being placed in the same situation as the characters in this one, but their saga fully gripped my emotions. What if? No one wants to ask that question but it's one that's imagined here in a way that forces you to consider. The author did an amazing job with this one.
*I received a copy of this book through JustRead Tours. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
September 24, 2014
When Laney Camden gets into a car accident, she changes more than just her own life. Her actions affect her parents, her husband, her kids, and even the lives of her dearest friends. She struggles with the impact on her own life while learning to love God again. It’s a heart wrenching tale that inspired me to think about my own faith and question how I would handle myself if I went through something like that.
In this book, the author tells a tale of love, commitment, and endurance from the primary view point of Laney’s mother, Molly Tipton. Molly learns to lean on her husband, trust her daughter’s independence, and examines her true feelings for the God that orchestrates her life.
I found Breathing On Her Own to capture my attention from page one. I learned to like most of the characters (Beverly was inspiring!) and the plot held my interest. The story was heavy on narrative and I would have liked a little more dialogue to be able to “see” the action taking place, but that’s just me.
I give Breathing on Her Own 4 stars. It’s a clean, thought provoking book that gives readers something to think about in regard to their own faith. As I read it, I was reminded of Janet Okes Loves Comes Softly series. Although her story takes place in the present, unlike Okes’, Rebecca Waters takes her readers to a quiet place where they learn about faith through the lives of her characters while giving them a chance to question their own.
In this book, the author tells a tale of love, commitment, and endurance from the primary view point of Laney’s mother, Molly Tipton. Molly learns to lean on her husband, trust her daughter’s independence, and examines her true feelings for the God that orchestrates her life.
I found Breathing On Her Own to capture my attention from page one. I learned to like most of the characters (Beverly was inspiring!) and the plot held my interest. The story was heavy on narrative and I would have liked a little more dialogue to be able to “see” the action taking place, but that’s just me.
I give Breathing on Her Own 4 stars. It’s a clean, thought provoking book that gives readers something to think about in regard to their own faith. As I read it, I was reminded of Janet Okes Loves Comes Softly series. Although her story takes place in the present, unlike Okes’, Rebecca Waters takes her readers to a quiet place where they learn about faith through the lives of her characters while giving them a chance to question their own.
April 22, 2014
Molly and her husband are a few years from retirement when a horrible tragedy occurs as a result of their married daughter's poor choice. All of a sudden, her world is reeling with uncertainties and worries for the future of her family. Travis, her husband is the solid rock on which Molly finds her stability, only it's not always enough.
Only after her daughter, Laney has come to terms with her poor choice can she come to terms with her relationship with God. This, in turn, flows to Molly who realizes, she, too, was paralyzed along with her daughter, only spiritually.
Rebecca does an excellent job of creating believable characters whose lives weave in and out of each other throughout the book. This keeps the story moving along smoothly without confusion or rifts in action. The reality of the situations resonated so deeply, I wanted to reach over and comfort Molly.
Ms. Waters' writing style can easily be understood by the average reader. Her conversational style is loose and casual, making it appealing to both young and older adults. The details of the activities of daily living and struggles make her characters and their actions believable. The themes are overarching: love, loss, family, judgment, struggle, hope, etc.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and would recommend it to anyone who loves Christian women's fiction.
Only after her daughter, Laney has come to terms with her poor choice can she come to terms with her relationship with God. This, in turn, flows to Molly who realizes, she, too, was paralyzed along with her daughter, only spiritually.
Rebecca does an excellent job of creating believable characters whose lives weave in and out of each other throughout the book. This keeps the story moving along smoothly without confusion or rifts in action. The reality of the situations resonated so deeply, I wanted to reach over and comfort Molly.
Ms. Waters' writing style can easily be understood by the average reader. Her conversational style is loose and casual, making it appealing to both young and older adults. The details of the activities of daily living and struggles make her characters and their actions believable. The themes are overarching: love, loss, family, judgment, struggle, hope, etc.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and would recommend it to anyone who loves Christian women's fiction.
October 2, 2014
Whose life isn't full of trials and tribulations in one aspect or another? We all experience them, some minor, some bigger and some huge mountains that we never think we can overcome.
Molly and her husband are near to retiring and enjoying they're plentiful life after bringing up a family and working and near to fulfilling their dream. A tragic event happens wherein one of her daughters is involved in a terrible accident one day.
Leading ahead of this, we have Molly, her mom. Although Laney is married with children, she's a Mom, just a Mom who want to do her best to help her injured daughter. Sometimes to the extent of over doing it.
I offered to read and review this book from the publishers Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas who contacted me via email.
I am so glad I got involved with reading for them as this was a superb book. I love Christian type reads [not too heavy] and full of 'real life' because real life has its ups and downs, it takes you to places and emotions you never want to go willingly, then you need to find some inner strength and sometimes a reliance on your faith.
Thoroughly enjoyed this book and looking forward to discovering more new authors coming my way.
Molly and her husband are near to retiring and enjoying they're plentiful life after bringing up a family and working and near to fulfilling their dream. A tragic event happens wherein one of her daughters is involved in a terrible accident one day.
Leading ahead of this, we have Molly, her mom. Although Laney is married with children, she's a Mom, just a Mom who want to do her best to help her injured daughter. Sometimes to the extent of over doing it.
I offered to read and review this book from the publishers Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas who contacted me via email.
I am so glad I got involved with reading for them as this was a superb book. I love Christian type reads [not too heavy] and full of 'real life' because real life has its ups and downs, it takes you to places and emotions you never want to go willingly, then you need to find some inner strength and sometimes a reliance on your faith.
Thoroughly enjoyed this book and looking forward to discovering more new authors coming my way.
September 28, 2014
This was a thought provoking and gripping book to read. The story is about 59 year old Molly Tipton. She is the wife of Travis, and mother to Laney and Melissa. The opening setting of the book is at the hospital ER, after Molly and Travis have received that dreaded call in the night informing them their daughter has been in a car accident. The story continues with how everyone’s lives are changed. It is a beautiful reminder of Romans 8:28 - And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
I started and finished this book in the same weekend. I felt as though I knew each character. The male characters in this book are excellent examples of real men. Godly men. I highly recommend this book if you enjoy Contemporary Christian Fiction that will inspire you to love and care for others. It deals with real life issues and encourages us, knowing that God is there for us, even in the midst of trials and tragedy.
I started and finished this book in the same weekend. I felt as though I knew each character. The male characters in this book are excellent examples of real men. Godly men. I highly recommend this book if you enjoy Contemporary Christian Fiction that will inspire you to love and care for others. It deals with real life issues and encourages us, knowing that God is there for us, even in the midst of trials and tragedy.
November 17, 2014
Breathing On Her Own was a quick read. It addressed how one mistake can change the lives of so many people you love and care for. I think what sets this book apart from others is that one, the characters call on God to help them through their struggles and openly pray with one another to seek guidance and comfort. Second, Laney, is a grown woman with a family of her own who makes a tragic mistake. Since Laney is an adult, married, with children it’s interesting to see how her parents react to her accident and how they step in to help and Laney's reaction. Also, the community is quick to forgive Laney of her poor choice. The author does a good job of sharing the internal struggles each character has throughout Laney’s recovery. I would have liked a better transition from Chapter 28 to Chapter 29. ***Spoiler Alert*** I thought the author quickly jumped from the trial to The Johnson's choosing to drop the lawsuit. Overall, a good Christian read that encompasses a topic that can touch anyone's life at any time.
January 29, 2020
“Breathing On her Own,” by author Rebecca Waters tells a wonderful story of mercy, love, forgiveness and truth. Molly and her husband, Travis are enjoying retirement when their oldest daughter, Laney is critically injured after a car accident in which she was driving and killed her best friend. Laney is married with two children. Travis, her husband is loving and a God-fearing man. The perfect life until Laney made a poor choice of driving after consuming a few alcoholic beverages. Molly’s faith is tested and just going through the motions as she is forced to evaluate life and her faith. Molly is faced with learning to let go and let God and know that she can trust Him through trials.
Bad decisions can not be taken back, but God has certainly forgiven us for those choices. God will meet us everyday right where we are. This story offered encouragement, knowing that we can not control each day.
I received a copy of the book from Just Read Tours in exchange for my honest opinion.
Bad decisions can not be taken back, but God has certainly forgiven us for those choices. God will meet us everyday right where we are. This story offered encouragement, knowing that we can not control each day.
I received a copy of the book from Just Read Tours in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 7, 2014
Breathing on Her Own is a captivating inspirational fiction that immediately drew me into the story of Molly Tipton, wife, mother, grandmother, perfect job whose life is changed forever by a tragic event. Her adult daughter is the intoxicated driver of a car that is involved in an accident that leaves her paralyzed and her girlfriend dead. I could relate to Molly's feelings and thoughts as she tries to come to terms of this new life that she didn't ask for. Her daughter is paralyzed. The whole family is devastated. Another family is also grieving. Molly asks the questions we all would ask .... Why me? Why my daughter? What now? Is my daughter going to survive? Am I going to survive? Molly does find the answers she is looking for as she is able to rest in Christ. Wonderful book that instills hope and peace and reminds us of the One who is in control. Highly recommended!
June 26, 2014
Some Christian books treat faith as if it's a billy club and beat the reader over the head with it. Rebecca Waters' Breathing on Her Own does not fit that category. The characters' faith, and their struggles and challenges with faith, are woven into the fabric of the story. There's nothing preachy here, just a tale well told of a family in crisis and how that crisis impacts the whole family. It was easy, as a mom, to relate to the protagonist, Molly, who struggles to keep things "normal" for her family while everything seems to fall apart--but forgets that she too needs to lean on God to get through the tough times.
May 28, 2015
Breathing on Her Own is a story so true to life that the reader feels they are a participant in the story. Rebecca Waters weaves a poignant tale of tragedy, parental love, and faith that will draw the reader in from the very first page. It is a satisfying tale that answers the author’s own question, “If it’s true that time heals all wounds, what are we to do with our scars?” Without being pushy or preachy, Breathing on Her Own leads the reader to a conclusion about their own faith and how they handle the big problems of life. It is a wonderful read that should not be missed.
February 24, 2023
How would you react if your were told your child might never walk again, or even live after the tragic accident in which her girlfriend was killed. What if you were certain that the accident was not your child's fault only to find out she played a bigger role than you ever suspected? Rebecca Waters story addresses all these questions in her realistic novel of one family dealing with just such an event. I enjoyed reading this first time novel and highly recommend it.
July 18, 2014
Breathing On Her Own is a compelling read. The story line does not let the reader down. It is the all-too-real story of problems within many of today's families. Parents feel left out; wanting so badly to control the circumstances of their grown children's lives. The faith of the characters and the lack of it will resonate with anyone who reads this book. I read it from beginning to end without stopping.
November 11, 2014
Written from a mother's perspective, this book hit close to home. From the time our children are little we want to fix everything. We want our ideal life for our children and the hardest lesson as a parent is to "Let Go and Let God". Another hard lesson is how to balance our marriage with wanting to be there for our children. This book examines that in a way that is easily to relate to. You'll ride the familiar roller-coaster of parenting and marriage and love every minute of it.
April 1, 2014
This book thoughtfully approaches the subject of faith in the midst of trials. Rebecca Waters' clear and straightforward writing guides the reader through Molly's struggle to deal with tragedy in her family without being sappy or trite. She shows how hardship can produce growth. I'd definitely read more from this author.
November 19, 2014
Finished Breathing On Her Own by Rebecca Waters last night and want to post my review here.This story is a very painful revealing of choices and consequences. I found the writing to be very good and the story line one we can all identify with in one way or another. I connected with the characters from the beginning and the ups and downs resulting in spirital growth were great. Highly recommended.
March 26, 2014
Breathing on Her Own is an authentic depiction of family dynamics including the thoughts, fears, joy, and pain, as we witness the picture perfect family deal with the reality of an automobile accident and what the future holds.
May 19, 2014
"Breathing on Her Own" captures one's attention from page one. One can readily identify with Molly and her struggles. Her character is warm and believable. As Molly's inner struggles start to emerge, one begins to look at ones own interior life. This is definitely a great "quick read" book!
May 17, 2014
Great book! I was hooked from the first page. Believable, easy-to-relate-to-characters. Has strong Christian theme, but not heavy-handed. Would recommend even to those not fans of Christian fiction.
August 21, 2014
Interesting, remember-able
January 21, 2017
I loved this book! That being said I'm sure you will want to know why I liked it.
The characters! Molly and her family are loveable and believeable. They are just like friends at church. I like that the mother at the center of the story, Molly, is an older mature woman. Her daughters are gown and out of the house. I liked seeing how she interacted with her daughters and grandchildren and witnessing her struggles as a Christian. All very believable.
There were several different elements going on at the same time. You have the accident and how that effects all of the family. They had to work together and support each other while Laney was in the hospital and later when she was in rehab. It is difficult enough to make time in our busy schedules to include hospital visits, let alone have to take care of two of your grandchildren and accomodate their schedules into the mix.
Next we have Molly, the mother whose oldest daughter is in the hospital. She wants to be there for her daughter and take care of her, but she is also embarrassed by the fact that her daughter had been drinking before the accident. She doesn't want the people at church to know about the drinking. Don't we all want other to think we have perfect children?
Lastly we have Molly, the child of God. She is struggeling with what she believes about God. The Holy Spirit uses sermons and her husband to show Molly how important it is to have a relationship with Him. I loved the analogy of the dolphins. God can use anything to bring a lost lamb back into the fold.
A truly inspirational story. I loved it. I hope you will too. As always, if you buy the book let me know what you thought about it.
The characters! Molly and her family are loveable and believeable. They are just like friends at church. I like that the mother at the center of the story, Molly, is an older mature woman. Her daughters are gown and out of the house. I liked seeing how she interacted with her daughters and grandchildren and witnessing her struggles as a Christian. All very believable.
There were several different elements going on at the same time. You have the accident and how that effects all of the family. They had to work together and support each other while Laney was in the hospital and later when she was in rehab. It is difficult enough to make time in our busy schedules to include hospital visits, let alone have to take care of two of your grandchildren and accomodate their schedules into the mix.
Next we have Molly, the mother whose oldest daughter is in the hospital. She wants to be there for her daughter and take care of her, but she is also embarrassed by the fact that her daughter had been drinking before the accident. She doesn't want the people at church to know about the drinking. Don't we all want other to think we have perfect children?
Lastly we have Molly, the child of God. She is struggeling with what she believes about God. The Holy Spirit uses sermons and her husband to show Molly how important it is to have a relationship with Him. I loved the analogy of the dolphins. God can use anything to bring a lost lamb back into the fold.
A truly inspirational story. I loved it. I hope you will too. As always, if you buy the book let me know what you thought about it.
October 12, 2017
Molly and Travis raised two daughters, Lissa and Laney. Laney married Rob and they had two children. She had strayed from being a dedicated Christian. College friend, Tori, who was not a good influence on Laney, came for a visit.
Then, a horrible car accident changed everything.
Laney was injured in the accident, and was paralyzed. She spent a lot of time considering her blessings and also what she had lost.
Laney’s mother, Molly, found herself not only grandchild-sitting but feeling self-guilt in realizing this horrible car accident could have had a different result with her wayward child. Laney could have been the one who died, instead of her college friend.
Thus, began Molly’s self-analyzing and self-blame. She knew her husband was a man of faith but she realized her faith was weak. Watching her struggle, the reader has opportunity to self-examine also.
This is an interesting story of family interaction in a clean read.
I received this book for my honest review.
Then, a horrible car accident changed everything.
Laney was injured in the accident, and was paralyzed. She spent a lot of time considering her blessings and also what she had lost.
Laney’s mother, Molly, found herself not only grandchild-sitting but feeling self-guilt in realizing this horrible car accident could have had a different result with her wayward child. Laney could have been the one who died, instead of her college friend.
Thus, began Molly’s self-analyzing and self-blame. She knew her husband was a man of faith but she realized her faith was weak. Watching her struggle, the reader has opportunity to self-examine also.
This is an interesting story of family interaction in a clean read.
I received this book for my honest review.
August 13, 2017
This was a great story. Some people think being a Christian means every thing is rosy but is not. It is during the hard times you know God is with you. He is in control and is not surprised when troubles come. I enjoyed the fact that this was an interesting story about a Christian family. It really held my interest seeing how the characters each handled their situations. I have been burdened by Church goers that thought they were believers and had not totally given their all to Christ. I had been one of those just like Molly. Thank you Rebecca Waters, for sharing her true commitment to our Lord and Savior. I pray that this book will open many eyes to this serious problem. Don't just play church. Search your heart and know your eternity depends on your relationship with God.
I would highly recommend this book. It was truly a good read!
I would highly recommend this book. It was truly a good read!
August 3, 2017
Medical mystery
I felt this author did very good job. There was a horrible car accident that involved drinking a nd driving. The aftershocks are gripping. There is paralysis. There is much more pain involved therein that the author didn't go into but even the part she touched on was perhaps gruesome enough. Forgiveness and re-connecting with family and spiritual healing does occur so a good ending that shows the work it takes to mend and thereby make a beautiful picture.
I felt this author did very good job. There was a horrible car accident that involved drinking a nd driving. The aftershocks are gripping. There is paralysis. There is much more pain involved therein that the author didn't go into but even the part she touched on was perhaps gruesome enough. Forgiveness and re-connecting with family and spiritual healing does occur so a good ending that shows the work it takes to mend and thereby make a beautiful picture.
February 21, 2018
Review: Breathing On Her Own
This is another great read for anyone seeking a spiritual connection to our God. The subject of living with a disability is very real, and how to cope with it as one living with it, and the family members too. Grief also is very real. I recommend this book for anyone who has a loved one who is living with a recent disability, and is struggling with their faith, or lack of one. Kudos to the author, this one is very new to me.
This is another great read for anyone seeking a spiritual connection to our God. The subject of living with a disability is very real, and how to cope with it as one living with it, and the family members too. Grief also is very real. I recommend this book for anyone who has a loved one who is living with a recent disability, and is struggling with their faith, or lack of one. Kudos to the author, this one is very new to me.
March 29, 2018
Tragedy and Forgiveness
A few bad decisions, and many lives were changed. Laney and Tori were in a car accident where one was killed and the other would never walk again. Both families struggled with healing, forgiveness, unconditional love, and learning to live again.
This was a good, easy read with characters you can relate to, whether you have experienced tragedy in your life or not.
A few bad decisions, and many lives were changed. Laney and Tori were in a car accident where one was killed and the other would never walk again. Both families struggled with healing, forgiveness, unconditional love, and learning to live again.
This was a good, easy read with characters you can relate to, whether you have experienced tragedy in your life or not.
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