"Ms. Cox has once again produced an inspirational and heartfelt novel about family. In her writing, she beautifully portrays the brokenness of people and how God heals our wounds by bringing friends and family together. Her characters have a beautiful depth that invites the reader to join them on their journey through a story threaded with wisdom and grace. I am eagerly looking forward to reading her next book, as I know I will not be disappointed." ( )

Picked the audiobook because I like stuff about bees. My issues:

1. Genetic testing. Surely one of the characters would have been aware this exists. This nagged me throughout.

2. Kinda Jesus-y.

3. See #1.

He Should Have Told The Bees is another outstanding general fiction offering from Amanda Cox. Family dynamics play a large part in Cox’s novels, and this one is no exception. Navigating a messy family is not easy, but it is especially difficult for Callie Peterson and Beckett Walsh. Unknown to each other, they discover their histories are wrapped in more layers of secrets than they anticipate. A mysterious trust established by Beckett’s father, throws the two together to navigate what looks like a future of broken dreams and loss of identity.

The unfolding of Callie and Beck’s lives creates lots of questions that I and the main characters were anxious to answer. 😉 But Cox takes her time in bringing various characters’ actions and motives to life. The slow pace of the novel is necessary to really get to know who Beck and Callie are. Beck deals with issues of abandonment, while Callie feels an obligation to rescue — all relating to their mother. It’s a sad story in many ways, but Cox brings about healing and wholeness. The provision and care of God is displayed throughout the narrative, often unknown and unsuspected by the characters. The ending is a dramatic and powerful look at how God can take what we want from life and make a better plan.

He Should Have Told The Bees is a book to be savored. Take your time with this one — it’s a gem.

Recommended.

Audience: Adults.

(I purchased the audiobook version from Audible. All opinions expressed are mine alone.) ( )

Wow! A story of compassion, courage and family. This story certainly tugged on a few of my heartstrings. The subject of anxiety was brought up throughout the book. Amanda dealt with the subject of anxiety with a gentle and understanding touch. Beck is just AMAZING! She faced enormous difficulties but she persevered and became stronger! I loved learning about beekeeping! It's fascinating! A beautifully written book that is a must read!
I was provided a copy of the book by Revell through Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ( )

I received this book from Librarything Early Member Giveaway for a honest review. I love this book! I was not expecting the outcome of the story. I fell in love with the characters right then. The story and characters were written well, and the book was amazing!!! ( )