Change of Heart by Jodi Picoult

I simply devoured this book. Jodi Picoult writes in a such a way that you become transfixed. I went through a series of emotions throughout this story of a man on death row who is wanting to donate his heart to the sister of his victim, after he's executed. The storyline captivated me instantly and from page one, I was engrossed. The death penalty has been brought up in conversation a few times lately and this book definitely brought more questions to the surface of why we have the death penalty and what does God think about it?

I was caught quite off guard with how much religion played a part in this novel, and by religion I mean ideas from Christianity, Judaism, Catholicism, Agnosticism and even Atheism. Jodi Picoult clearly conveys the struggle between all the various characters, with all their various religious beliefs and how they deal with their views on grace, forgiveness and God. At times I found myself agreeing with what was said and then moments later, strongly disagreeing. At the same time it was intriguing to see how someone else processes a particular controversial situation from a completely different religious perspective.

It was a fascinating novel and I found myself itching to get back to its pages. Jodi Picoult's latest novel delivers to my highest expectation!

Description: The acclaimed #1 New York Times bestselling author presents a spellbinding tale of a mother's tragic loss and one man's last chance at gaining salvation. Can we save ourselves, or do we rely on others to do it? Is what we believe always the truth?

One moment June Nealon was happily looking forward to years full of laughter and adventure with her family, and the next, she was staring into a future that was as empty as her heart. Now her life is a waiting game. Waiting for time to heal her wounds, waiting for justice. In short, waiting for a miracle to happen.

For Shay Bourne, life holds no more surprises. The world has given him nothing, and he has nothing to offer the world. In a heartbeat, though, something happens that changes everything for him. Now, he has one last chance for salvation, and it lies with June's eleven-year-old daughter, Claire. But between Shay and Claire stretches an ocean of bitter regrets, past crimes, and the rage of a mother who has lost her child.

Would you give up your vengeance against someone you hate if it meant saving someone you love? Would you want your dreams to come true if it meant granting your enemy's dying wish?

Once again, Jodi Picoult mesmerizes and enthralls readers with this story of redemption, justice, and love.

Issues regarding the death penalty, blended families, weight, mothers and daughters, sexual abuse, organ donation and religion

Rating: *****

Recommend: Those who enjoy courtroom suspense and discussing controversial issues.