Erin Bartels is a new author to me, but I intend to read whatever she writes, hereafter. The Girl Who Could Breathe Under Water are the reflections of a coming-of-age story that touched me deeply. A brave, albeit realistically awkward journey to forgiveness for the unforgiveable and the perspective that comes with it.

The story begins with novelist Kendra Brennon’s return to her childhood retreat—her late grandfather’s lakeside cabin—where her wounds took place. Wounds which were reopened in her bestselling novel. She’s on deadline to finish her second book but is creatively paralyzed by a letter from a “Disappointed Reader.”

As she delves into the possible reasons for her critic’s cryptic words, she analyzes her book—which is more than loosely based on her past. Her investigation “rocks the boat” for herself and her best friend Cami and her family. She mucks up her idyllic childhood with dark memories she can no longer hide.

Bartels’ writing flows like a gentle lake current, then churns and overpowers with her stormy revelations. Her story rocked the boat of my own past.

A gifted writer will not eliminate the darkness of life but will define its boundaries with the Light of God.
If you want a book that is beautifully and poignantly written with literary fingers that grab for the gut, The Girl Who Could Breathe Under Water is a highly recommended read.

I was given an advanced reader’s e-book by Revell and #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.