Life Goes On: A Harmony Novel (Harmony Novels)

Rating:
Summary: Disappointed with Gulley's Change in Writing
Review: As a summer diversion, I recently read all of Philip Gulley's Harmony books. While somewhat enjoyable, I wouldn't rate them as highly as Jan Karon's Midford Series or Katherine Valentine's Dorsetville Series. However, prior to this book, "Life Goes On," Gulley's previous Harmony stories were more harmless and politically-neutral.

Gulley's continuous digs at other religions (while attempting to be done humorously), and his new inclusion of political commentary, became annoying. In contrast, Jan Karon's and Katherine Valentine's inclusion of other religions' beliefs and followers have always been ecumenical and kind.

Another negative change evident Gulley's writing is the shallowness of the residents of Harmony. Along with very few others in Harmony, the main character, Sam Gardner, is portrayed as rational-thinking, progressive, reasonable, and open-minded. Most everyone else now fits one or several of the following categories: kooky, ultra-conservative, fundamentalist, Republican, non-progressive, old, eccentric, unattractive, boring, untalented, etc.

Also disappointing is Gulley's lack of development of his main character, Quaker minister Sam Gardner. After reading five Harmony books, a reader isn't given much to know or like about him other than: he isn't a very good husband, he routinely questions his choice of profession, he doesn't like most of his congregation, he would rather flee conflict than confront it, and he isn't helpful in getting people to change for the better or getting people to work with each other. I found "Life Goes On" a mostly depressing book.

Harmony isn't very harmonious, and it's not a place I'd want to visit.

Rating:
Summary: Is This Good Reading or a Political Novel?
Review: I bought this book because I felt that the story was good and I liked reading about this pastor and his church of hard to get along with parishioners. I have worked at a church before and know what goes on in the day to day world of churches. I felt that the politicizing that went on and equalling a true Christian with being a liberal thinker, and that conservatives were narrow minded and like Dale Hinshaw was a slap in the face. There are those of us who are conservative and believe in the Grace of our Lord and do not judge everyone they meet. We all sin and in the Lord's eyes our sins our equal. I would like to say I won't share this book, but then I would be considered just like the characters in the book who read the book but were narrow minded. I want everyone to read this and see how this writer has made this more a political book cutting down Conservative Christians.

Rating:
Summary: A Disappointment
Review: Philip Gulley is well-known for his amusing look at the quirks of small town life and the ministry within a struggling Quaker congregation. While his earlier efforts in the Harmony series are full of humorous anecdotes and eccentric but lovable residents, Life Goes On turns sullen and bitter more often than not. Gulley is at his best when writing about the de-throned Sausage Queen, the observations of local farmers about the weather, and the travails of the local waitress/sweetheart. But the main characters, such as Sam, the long suffering preacher, and Dale, the overbearing elder, have become increasingly one-dimensional and sour. Where once these characters were flawed yet endearing, they are merely flawed in this book. The Harmony series remains one of my favorites, but I for one am hoping that Gulley regains his stride in future efforts.