Book Review: Unplanned (A Kennedy Stern Christian Suspense Novel Book 1) by Alana Terry
Have you ever picked up a book that felt like a window into someone else’s soul? That’s how I felt when I discovered Unplanned, the first installment of Alana Terry’s captivating Kennedy Stern series. As a reader, I’m always drawn to stories that challenge the norms and stretch my understanding of complex issues. This novel not only sparked my interest with its gripping premise but also beckoned me to reflect on my own beliefs.
At its heart, Unplanned revolves around Kennedy Stern, a young woman who, on her very first day volunteering at a pregnancy center, receives a desperate plea from a girl too young to navigate the challenging waters of impending motherhood. This moment sets off a tidal wave of suspense, forcing Kennedy to confront not just her own life choices but the moral dilemmas surrounding teenage pregnancy. The tension is palpable, and I often found myself holding my breath in anticipation of what would happen next.
Terry’s portrayal of Kennedy is both relatable and compelling. A college student who has returned to the United States after a decade abroad, she struggles to balance the pressures of academic life at Harvard with the weight of this extraordinary situation. As I followed her journey, I couldn’t help but empathize with her turmoil, her doubts, and her fierce determination to help another girl—traits that reflect the depth and complexity of real-life situations.
The writing style adds to the allure, with Terry masterfully using pacing to keep readers on their toes. The early chapters move steadily, laying a foundation of character development, while the plot accelerates to an electrifying pace as Kennedy dives deeper into the chaos of her new role. I found this rhythm appealing; it mirrored the emotional highs and lows that often accompany life’s most challenging decisions.
One of the standout aspects of Unplanned is how it tackles a controversial subject with grace and nuance. Multiple reviews echoed similar sentiments, praising the author for presenting a balanced perspective on pro-life and pro-choice debates without leaning too heavily into preachiness. Readers are invited to reflect, question, and reconsider their own viewpoints. One review captured the essence perfectly: “It’s a thought-provoking read that encourages open dialogue on sensitive topics.”
The characters aren’t merely archetypes; they’re layered, multifaceted individuals who breathe life into the narrative. The villains remain chilling yet believable, and I appreciated the absence of gratuitous violence or foul language—refreshing for a suspense novel!
Unplanned is a noteworthy read for those interested in a gripping, faith-imbued story that addresses significant moral questions. It’s a book that I believe will resonate not only with Christian readers but also those seeking heartfelt stories about real challenges. By the end, I found myself not only entertained but also inspired to ponder the weight of choices we make and the lives we touch.
If you’re in the mood for a suspenseful tale that keeps you guessing while also encouraging thoughtful reflection, I can’t recommend Unplanned highly enough. Alana Terry delivers a powerful debut that leaves readers eager for the subsequent entries in the Kennedy Stern series. Ultimately, this book reaffirmed for me the power of storytelling in exploring life’s toughest issues. So grab a cup of tea, settle in, and prepare for a journey that will challenge and inspire you. You won’t regret it!
You can find Unplanned (A Kennedy Stern Christian Suspense Novel Book 1) here >>