Gospel According to Vivian Grace
by Tracey Michae'l Lewis-Giggetts
Narrated by Angel Pean
Thank you, Netgalley, Dreamscape Media, and Tracey Michael’ for sending me an advanced audio copy of The Next Thing Is Joy: The Gospel According to Vivian Grace by Tracey Michae'l Lewis-Giggetts.
Summary
Vivian Grace wants her life to have meaning and help others. That is why she joined the Black Panther movement in Chicago.
Now that she is uplifting her community, she feels a sense of validation. But she always wanted to experience real romantic love. When she gets the attention of the local leader, Reggie, she feels like she is finally seen. He dotes on her in public and tells everyone he loves her.
But behind closed doors, he is brutal to Tracey. She wants out and to experience real love. A friendship with an unlikely person may help her get the help she needs.
Representation
Black Main Characters, Black Side Characters, One Caucasian Side Character,
CW: Dometic Violence, Stalking, Threats, Death of a loved one in the past, Depressed parent. Misogynistic views, murder, drug use, and molestation in the past.
My Thoughts
Tracey Michae’l Lewis-Giggetts does a wonderful job showing the dynamics of an abusive relationship. She also shows why people stay. At times, I wanted Vivian to walk away, but when reading the book, I realized why she stayed. She had to let go of not only her fear but her past as well. Lewis-Giggetts also handles other traumatic events with an understanding of those who experience violence and abuse.
One of those experiences was Vivan’s faith and religious background. The author has religious references throughout the book. I usually don’t read books like that, but this one was pushing religious beliefs. The author shared Vivian’s beliefs and experiences, which I appreciated.
What pulled me in was the storytelling of Vivian’s background. She provided enough information without overwhelming readers. But it helped understand Vivian’s life and life choices. Some scene descriptions trigger those who have experienced domestic violence.
Conclusion
I give it four stars because of the vibrant storytelling of healing, second chances, and self-love. But it was more a book of self-discovery than romance. It was a beautiful story of how a person can heal after experiencing traumatic events. I enjoyed seeing Vivian's healing journey.
