Becoming Mrs. Lewis

Starred review from August 13, 2018
Callahan (The Bookshop at Water’s End) vividly enters the life of a woman searching for both God and romantic love in this pleasing historical novel about writer and poet Joy Davidman. In 1946, Joy lives in Ossining, N.Y., with her alcoholic husband, Bill Gresham, and her two small sons. In a moment of desperation, she prays to a God she doesn’t believe in and experiences feeling “fully known and loved.” Three years later, now deeply considering Christianity, she writes to Christian apologist C.S. Lewis with her questions about God. He responds, beginning a long-term correspondence in which Joy finds “peace, connection, and intellectual intimacy.” By 1952, she wants to leave her unfaithful, abusive husband, but sees no way out. She does manage to take a much-needed physical and mental respite, heading to England for six months and falling in love with both England and Lewis; her only regret is leaving behind her sons. But, even after Bill and Joy divorce, Lewis at first keeps their relationship platonic, and Joy must search for true love and fulfillment through her relationship with God. Making full use of historical documentation, Callahan has created an incredible portrait of a complex woman.

November 15, 2018

This meticulously researched and beautifully written historical fiction recounts the relationship and marriage between noted poet Joy Davidman and the incomparable C.S. Lewis, renowned theologian and author of the beloved "Chronicles of Narnia" series. The story takes place over the relatively short time span of the 1950s, encompassing Davidman's first letters to Lewis and culminating in her early death from cancer, providing insight into the theology, spiritualism, and intellectualism of the times accompanied by healthy portions of Davidman's and Lewis's everyday trials and joys. A strong underlying theme demonstrates the influence of Davidman (and many women of that time) on the men they loved and lived for. Understated and eloquent narration by Lauren Woodward complements the story. There is certainly a sentimental bent, but the writing and narration curb listeners' tears. VERDICT Listeners will wish to return to Lewis's writings (theological and children's literature) and will certainly wish to savor Davidman's works including the elegant sonnets that precede the chapters. ["Callahan's writing is riveting and her characters spring to life to create a magical and literary experience that won't soon be forgotten": LJ 9/15/18 starred review of the Thomas Nelson hc.]--Sandra C. Clariday, Cleveland, TN

Copyright 2018 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

September 15, 2018
Behind every great man is a great woman, as the saying goes, and for acclaimed author C.S. Lewis, that woman was writer Joy Davidman. Callahan (The Bookshop at Water's End, as Patti Callahan Henry, 2017) brings to life the friendship turned romance between the two. Worn down by motherhood and marriage to an alcoholic, committed atheist Davidman, in the middle of a dark night, falls to her knees and prays to God for the first time. Despite the confidence of her spiritual awakening, there were questions for this atheist turned Christian. When a friend suggests that Joy write to Lewis, a mutual acquaintance, a correspondence begins that will change Joy's life. Readers familiar with the life and work of C.S. Lewis will relish learning about the woman who inspired some of his most famous books. Others will find the slow burn of the romance between the two mesmerizing. All fans of women's fiction, particularly works with religious themes, will appreciate reading about this vibrant and intelligent woman.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2018, American Library Association.)

Starred review from September 15, 2018

Joy Davidman is an unhappily married woman in the early 1950s. Her rocky marriage leads her to rely on her faith to get through the days. She begins a correspondence with author C.S. "Jack" Lewis, which they both find uplifting and captures more than their minds. Through all the poverty, death, and hard times, the love between Jack and Joy grows until there is no room for anyone else in their world but each other. Callahan (Where the River Runs) crafts a masterpiece that details the friendship and ultimate romance between the real Davidman (1915-60) and Lewis (1898-1963). Readers may be familiar with Lewis's "Narnia" books, but this historical novel of a love based on friendship and faith will not disappoint. The story cocoons readers in the world of the 1950s where women had almost no voice, but Davidman found hers, and romance besides. VERDICT Fans of Karen White and Mary Alice Monroe will enjoy this book. Callahan's writing is riveting and her characters spring to life to create a magical and literary experience that won't be soon forgotten.--Christine Sharbrough, Industry, TX

Copyright 2018 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.