First sentence: I sat on the front step with my backpack loaded for adventure, tapping my tennis shoe on the concrete. My older brother, Jacob, was supposed to pick me up at 3:00 that autumn afternoon, but he was late as usual.

This memoir is essentially the story behind the song, "My Jesus." It is a memoir capturing a very specific time in Anne Wilson's life. The book focuses on a) her coming to faith as a teen, b) the death of her older brother, Jacob, c) her being led by the Spirit to sing a song at her brother's funeral, d) everyone encouraging her to record a video of her singing the same [funeral] song, e) her singing video being 'discovered' on YouTube, f) how she got a manager, g) how she had songwriting sessions with others h) how she got a record deal i) the release of her single, "My Jesus." The overall main theme being how grief transformed her faith and her family.

This felt more like it could have been or should have been a feature length article in a magazine, a blog post (or two), or a vlog series on YouTube. Don't get me wrong, I really do appreciate and love the song, "My Jesus." I do like the country sound of Anne Wilson.

For better or worse, it seems like Anne Wilson's faith is more than a little on the charismatic side. She talks of prophets and prophecies, dreams, visions, etc. Some of the theology feels a little questionable, a little strange, perhaps. There were a handful of scenes that just weren't my cup of tea. It's fine as a memoir, but I wouldn't classify it as "christian living." Her life story shouldn't necessarily serve as advice for others. ( )

My Jesus: From Heartache to Hope is a beautiful memoir by Anne Wilson. I admired her courage to tell about her self, the loss of her brother and how her career began. I liked I was able to relate to her. Even though, it was through her loss I felt the connection, but I was inspired by her words on how she was able to cope and still have a fulfilling life. I loved it.

I am giving My Jesus: From Heartache to Hope a very well deserved five plus stars. Readers who are searching for hope while they are struggling will want to read Anne’s story. I will definitely be following Anne Wilson and see where else God leads her in the future.

I received a paperback copy of My Jesus: From Heartache to Hope from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion. ( )