Because of personal issues I struggled with since a child and my early years in a ministry run by controlling, joyless leaders, it took years for me to believe that God is just as delighted in seeing me joyful as He was in giving me life. That He reserves good gifts for me. That He cherishes me. That following Him isn’t all about a list of do’s and don’t's. That I am free to delight in and cherish Him.

This is the central issue of Meg Moseley’s debut novel, When Sparrows Fall.

Her main character, Miranda Hanford, is in the process of breaking free from a narrow community run by wolf-in-sheep’s-clothing Mason Chandler. The problem is Miranda’s so used to hiding her true self and denying her dreams that she barely knows who she is anymore. And what scares her is that freeing herself involves bringing all things into the light—including the secrets she buried deep long ago.

Miranda’s charming children–six of them–provide strong motivation for her to take the necessary steps to save herself and her family. Though her journey is filled with pain and fear, it’s also buoyed by surprising touches of joy–which brings us to her handsome brother-in-law, Jack. (Miranda is a widow). Jack adds just the right amount of protection and romance to keep Miranda moving forward in spite of Mason Chandler’s threats and intimidation. I turned pages quickly to discover what secrets were binding Miranda and to enjoy the relationship developing between her and Jack!

God used this book to remind me that sometimes He allows His sparrows to fall. But it may be His way of freeing a stubborn child from a life-draining situation and drawing her to Himself. Though the fall might involve fear and pain, never doubt that underneath are the Everlasting Arms!

“Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” ~Matthew 10:29-31