STILL LIFE by Christa Parrish is essentially two books in one, with the stories intertwined, but not tangibly until the very end.

In the first “story” there is Ada, a 25-year-old woman who was raised in a strict religious cult led by her father, “The Prophet.” When Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist Julian Goetz shows up to take photos for a story about the compound, Ada escapes from the sect and runs off with Julian to get married. Having lived under her father’s authoritarian and abusive rule her whole life, Ada is fearful of her now-unfamiliar surroundings and is having a hard time adapting to her new life. Julian has been patiently and gently trying to teach Ada about technology and showing her what true love looks like. But still, she relies on her husband for absolutely everything and can barely make a decision for herself.

Five months into their marriage, Julian is out of town on business but promises to make it back in time for Ada’s birthday. When the flight is overbooked, a woman offers Julian her seat on the plane, which he gratefully accepts.

Tragically, the plane crashes.

That brings us to the second “story.”

"STILL LIFE is an outstanding novel that may just prompt you to be still and take inventory of your own life.... It also encourages readers to ask tough questions that may not always have black or white answers."

Katherine Cramer told her husband she was going to visit her sister, but has really spent the past couple of days with another man. She willingly gives up her plane ticket for the chance to spend one more night with her lover. Guilt isn’t something she’s feeling at the moment. At least, not until she learns that the plane she was supposed to be on has crashed, killing everyone on board. Now, the emotional guilt and shame are coming in waves. Her affair is what kept her alive, but it is also what caused another’s death. She returns home determined to work at her marriage and keep her family intact.

Throughout the book, readers follow both Ada and Katherine through their own separate journeys. There is also a section that focuses on Julian Goetz and the story of the man he is, his career as a photojournalist, his faith, and how he hears from God that he is to marry Ada.

Another prominent character is Evan, Katherine’s son, and how his medical issues have impacted Katherine’s family. His fascination with photography and art ties in with Julian and plays a part in how this story plays out. The angles and connections throughout are well-crafted and intelligent, a testament to Christa Parrish’s gift for storytelling. The emotional element is also excellent. While the characters may not always be likable, there’s no denying that they’re multi-faceted, raw and real, with true-to-life motivations and flaws.

A complex and intricate novel, many deep themes are touched on here, including questioning God’s will, being tuned into His voice, unique responses to tragedy, our own purposes in life, and a willingness to forgive not only others but also ourselves. A topic that leaves an impression is the effects of twisted religion --- one based on condemnation and control rather than love and grace. But it also effectively proves that God does, indeed, produce “beauty for ashes” and can take any evil circumstance and use it for His glory.

STILL LIFE is an outstanding novel that may just prompt you to be still and take inventory of your own life. Your choices, your responses, and your purpose. It also encourages readers to ask tough questions that may not always have black or white answers. And, more than that, to listen for the Holy Spirit’s still, small voice and obey, even when it doesn’t make sense.