Even Now (Lost Love, #1) Summary & Key Insights

Karen Kingsbury's "Even Now" opens with the devastating loss experienced by Christine and her family. Her husband, David, a beloved pastor, dies suddenly, leaving Christine reeling and questioning her faith. The novel centers on Christine's journey of grief, healing, and rediscovering her purpose amidst profound sorrow. She's left to grapple not only with her personal loss but also with the immense responsibility of raising her three children – teenagers Hannah and Josh, and young daughter, Abigail.

The primary conflict revolves around Christine's struggle to navigate life without David. She wrestles with the silence in her home, the absence of his comforting presence, and the ever-present reminder of their incomplete life together. Her faith, once a solid foundation, becomes shaken by the unfairness of his death. She grapples with anger, guilt, and self-doubt, questioning God's plan and her ability to cope. Adding to her difficulties is the complex relationship she has with her children, each reacting to their father's death in unique and sometimes challenging ways.

The novel introduces several key supporting characters who play vital roles in Christine's healing process. Her best friend, Beth, offers unwavering support, acting as a lifeline during the darkest moments. The church community, initially a source of comfort, sometimes presents unexpected challenges as Christine navigates the complicated dynamics of faith and grief within the congregation. Her interactions with other grieving individuals highlight the universality of loss and the diverse ways people cope.

Throughout the story, Christine slowly begins to find a path toward healing. She discovers strength she didn't know she possessed and learns to rely on her faith in new ways. The novel subtly underscores the importance of community and the power of human connection in navigating grief. As Christine connects with others who understand her pain, she begins to heal and find meaning in her renewed purpose.

A secondary storyline involves Hannah, who faces her own challenges of teenage angst and the complicated emotions surrounding her father's death. Her journey mirrors, in a sense, her mother's – a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. The novel shows the impact of grief on the entire family unit and explores the nuanced dynamics of family relationships during times of profound loss.

The overarching themes of "Even Now" include faith, grief, healing, family, and the power of community. Kingsbury portrays the messy and unpredictable nature of grief, emphasizing the lack of a linear healing process. The novel offers a realistic portrayal of the complexities of faith amidst suffering and provides a message of hope and resilience, showcasing how even in the face of unimaginable loss, love, support, and faith can provide strength to endure and ultimately, to find peace and new beginnings.