Everything is Just Beginning by Erin Bartels: Book Review

About the book:

Title: Everything is Just Beginning

Author: Erin Bartels

Release Date: January 17, 2023

Genre: Contemporary Christian Fiction

An Immersive Story of Music, Struggle, and Starting Over from an Award-Winning Author

Michael Sullivan is a talented lyricist and a decent guitarist, but since he was kicked out of his band (and his apartment), he’s not sure he’ll ever get a record deal. Living with his loser uncle in a beat-up trailer and working a dead-end job, Michael has little reason to hope for a better future. Until the invitation for a swanky New Year’s Eve party shows up in the mailbox. It’s for his uncle, with whom he shares his name, but his uncle is going out of town . . .

On the effervescent night of December 31, 1989–as the Berlin Wall is coming down, the Soviet Union is inching toward democracy, and anything seems possible–Michael will cross paths with the accomplished and enigmatic young heir to a fading musical dynasty, forever altering both of their futures.

Award-winning novelist Erin Bartels enchants with this story of two lonely souls who have exactly what the other one needs–if they could simply turn their focus from what is ending to what is just beginning.

Book Review:

You would think that writing a review for a fantastic book would be easy. It is, in a way. I loved this book. That’s the easy part. Why did I love it? That’s harder to pin down. The story and style are definitely unlike anything else. Erin Bartels has a way of narrating a tale that weaves sorrow into hope and pain into transformation. There are no easy fixes or quiet facsimiles of turning over a new leaf. These characters are real and raw, and their pain moves them in ways that are not always the right way but are the only way they know. They’re authentic to themselves and deeply complex. The story itself is one of slow discovery, with lyrical prose that lends itself well to Michael’s songwriting and his way of processing his life. Natalie is fierce and loving, with an abiding strength that shows just how capable she is as she navigates not only her life but her encroaching loss. Once I started this book, I couldn’t put it down. It’s not a quick, easy read but rather one that you’ll want to savor to truly enjoy the depth it brings to the table. I received a copy of this book through RevellReads. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.