Under the Shadow by Lana Yvette Williams

In this true story, Williams chronicles how life and dreams took a dramatic detour for her and her son, singer/songwriter Mark David Williams, when he was hit head on by a drunk driver near the end of 2001. In the long months that followed, she stayed by his side. Together they embarked on a journey that would test their endurance, stretch their faith, and ultimately lead them on a spiritual adventure of a lifetime.

Williams kept a journal during her time with her son so this is a detailed book. It chronicles Mark's stay in the hospital, rehabilitation, therapy, move to his apartment and finally the move to his parents' home. This is a good book for anyone who wants to know in detail what happens after a devastating accident. A potential reader needs a strong stomach as descriptions are included, such as removing pins and the patchwork quilt pattern of his stitches.

This book often reads like a journal, giving times and actions. It includes daily challenges and victories. She is transparent about her own feelings and struggles. She shares her feelings of discouragement and the spiritual warfare they experienced. She is also honest about the care her son received. Some caregivers were negligent while others went way beyond their job description in giving care.

The book is long and detailed. There is a strong message of faith and trust in God that is included throughout. It shows the importance of support as people came around the Williams family. It highlights the importance of prayer and is also a good example of the witness one has to others during an experience like this one.

This book was a bit too detailed for me. If you would like to read a detailed account of what a family endures after a horrific automobile accident, you will appreciate this book. You might hear of an accident on the news and then not give it much thought. Williams encourages readers in the Introduction, “...to vicariously plunge to the depths, feel the shock and then emerge renewed with motivated compassion for someone in a situation similar to this one.” Having read this book will give me a new understanding of what a family goes through in a situation like this one.

You can find out more about Mark David Williams at http://www.markdavidwilliams.com/.

Lana Yvette Williams is an author and speaker who has had a variety of careers. You can find out more at http://www.lanayvettewilliams.com/.

LYW Publications, 320 pages. You can buy the book, as well as Mark's music, here.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through The Book Club Network for the purpose of an independent and honest review.