From My Heart to Yours

Sofia, a young woman from a sheltered upbringing, is in for an unexpected ride when she marries Earl. As their stable union twists unnervingly through health issues, betrayal and shattered hearts, Sofia sheds layers of naivete, deepening her perspective of life. Beautiful life lessons learned from preschool children may heal her scars; but can they help her to endure the greatest tragedy of all? This story offers a powerful and inspiring journey into the soul.

*May Contain Spoilers*

Michelle Zarrin delivers a heart-wrenching tale of struggle and strength with her novel, From My Heart to Yours. This book, based on a true story, follows Sofia through the toughest times in her life. It begins with her falling in love with Earl, through their marriage, their divorce, and the death of the man who's always been there for her: her father. The whole experience threatens to destroy Sofia, but through faith and focus she survives, stronger than ever. 

Sofia is the central character in this novel, though her husband and her family both play large roles. Readers see a very definitive character arc as the story progresses. At the beginning, Sofia is in love with Earl and they get married, starting life's biggest adventure together. During this point, she's full of wonder and enjoyment. When Earl has a skiing accident and ultimately becomes addicted to painkillers, Sofia's character changes. A new dedicated and hopeful Sofia emerges. As she helps her husband overcome his addiction, she begins asking the appropriate questions and readers come to understand her plight. Will her marriage survive this? Can her husband become the man she used to know? And how will this affect their plans of starting a family? Readers will connect with Sofia as they witness the incredible struggle she endures. 

The plot of From My Heart to Yours comes full circle, as Sofia tries to understand the obstacles that life presented her and fights to overcome each of them. Through the difficult marriage Sofia must learn to rely on herself and become self-sufficient enough to move on after the last line has been crossed, emotionally and physically. Through meditation, yoga, and healthy habits, Sofia comes to believe and know that she is much stronger than anyone has ever given her credit for. 

Rating: 3/5 Cups