The Secret Life of Becky Miller
by Sharon Hinck
Published by Bethany House Publishers (June 2006 Release)
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Reviewed by Andrea Sisco
Who fights off ninja warriors with ease as they brandish swords and razor-sharp metal stars whiz through the air? Who bravely fights off pirate attacks? Who is that lifestyle expert that, with a flick of her talented hands, can put the super in supper? And who is it that is called "Mother" by the orphanage staff because of her undying devotion to the children and God? Why it's the incredible Becky Miller, who believes that serving God is her strength.
Becky Miller's daydreams are her coping mechanism. She alleviates the pressures of being the perfect mom, perfect wife and perfect friend by dreaming "big dreams." Her job, as she accepted it, is to support her husband when he loses his job. She will gladly nurture her diverse group of Bible Study friends, one of whom has lost a husband. Her children will be perfect and love God. And she will work tirelessly for her church only to have them discard her for someone "more" qualified.
When "real life" knocks on Becky's door, she must invite life in, turn off the fantasy channel and learn to trust God. Is she up to the task?
Sharon Hinck, author of The Secret Life of Becky Miller has written an entertaining novel for every woman who has ever attempted to be supermom. She adeptly mixes the absurd with reality and it packs a punch because Becky Miller's escapades could and does happen to all of us.
Hincks' characters are well developed, with all the human flaws we see in others and ourselves. Her storytelling ability is strong. Hincks takes the ordinary and makes it interesting. She is able to elicit strong physical and emotional reactions from the reader in response to "life." But it is her ability to balance the human reaction to events with how God wants us to respond that gives the reader much to think about.
Armchair Interviews says: The Secret Life of Becky Miller is a must read for everyone who strives to be the "I can do it all" mom. When you've finished the novel, give yourself a ticket to "I will do the best I can, with God's help" land. You'll find great satisfaction there.