Dr. Shon Shree Lewis’s Better Than Coffee is a heartfelt novel that captures the essence of faith, family, and self-discovery. Set in the quaint town of Greenville, Kentucky, the story follows Tammy Sky, a young girl raised by her aunt Beverly after her biological parents give her up for adoption. Through a series of revelations, challenges, and heartwarming moments, Tammy’s journey intertwines with her family’s rediscovery of faith and love. Each chapter reveals the complex layers of familial bonds, personal struggles, and the redemptive power of faith, making it a poignant read.

The writing in this book shines when it delves into the intricacies of family relationships. One moment that particularly resonated with me was when Beverly explains Tammy’s origins to her—a tender yet nerve-wracking scene that shows Beverly’s deep love for her niece despite the complicated history. The dialogue feels authentic, and the emotional weight of the conversation is palpable. While the prose is straightforward, it carries a warmth that drew me into the lives of these characters, making their joys and sorrows my own.

At times, the pacing of the story shifted focus to detailed descriptions of coffee rituals, which were delightful but occasionally felt lengthy. These moments added a comforting sense of atmosphere and highlighted the role of coffee as a symbol of connection and reflection within the story. While I sometimes found myself eager to return to Tammy’s more immediate conflicts, such as her relationship with her biological mother, Heather, the coffee scenes ultimately enriched the narrative’s theme of community and belonging.

The faith-based elements are woven into the story in a way that feels genuine rather than preachy. Tammy’s first visit to church, for example, is portrayed with a sense of awe and wonder that reminded me of the transformative power of faith. The pastors at the Light Tabernacle, along with characters like Julia, provide spiritual guidance that feels grounded in love and understanding.

Better Than Coffee is a warm and uplifting story that would appeal to readers who enjoy family dramas with a faith-centered perspective. It’s heartfelt message and relatable characters make it worth the read. I’d particularly recommend it to anyone seeking an inspiring, spiritually nourishing novel.

Pages: 225 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0D9QFKS6D