“The only one worthy of life, laid down His for mine. Now I am welcome into the Kingdom, for the tree awaiting me has already been occupied.” -The Gospel Gallery
Releases October 14, 2025
Synopsis From Genesis to Malachi, the Old Testament tells more than the story of a people–it unveils the Devine narrative of redemption, a prophetic tapestry woven by the hand of God Himself. Hidden in its pages are glimpses and shadows, promises and symbols, each pointing forward to the coming Messiah. In The Gospel Gallery, these timeless accounts are brought to life through the artistry of poetry, revealing the Good News of salvation was present from the very beginning, concealed in plain sight until the appointed time.
The Gospel Gallery was like a glimpse into the depthless wisdom and truth found in Scripture. The poetry paints beautiful pictures while also acting much like a Bible study, in that it emphasizes the Word of God while expanding on the incredible prophetic messages that point to Jesus.
The idea of poetry delving further into the Old Testament to portray the prophetic messages of Jesus Christ is a marvelous idea, bound to pull readers in and spark a desire to know more of what the Bible has to say. We often limit Jesus to the New Testament and disregard how He has been present all along–from the Garden of Eden to the promises in Revelation. It’s astounding how both the Old and New Testaments point to the coming and fulfillment of Jesus Christ. Not only does this show God’s intentional and sovereign hand, but it also leaves infallible evidence that the Bible is a reliable historical source of truth and wisdom.
The Gospel Gallery highlights this.
I love the Scripture at the top of each new section, followed by poetic images that encourage readers to engage with the Bible. I read the references before the poetry, as was intended by the author, and this made the journey through The Gospel Gallery all the more powerful. The poetry itself was lovely, flowing with Scripture and painting intricate pictures of God’s mighty and merciful hand. Before I read The Gospel Gallery, I had fallen into a slump in my personal Bible study. My motivation was waning, and it was taking a toll on my spiritual health. But God surely used this book in some ways to encourage a new desire for His Word. Enhanced by beautiful chapter art, each poem presented a new opportunity to embark on an adventure into the past, where truth and wonder were beheld.
It was a joy to journey back through the Old Testament, guided by poetry that spoke of the love and intentionality of God. Thank you to the author for reaching out and sharing this book with me in exchange for an honest review.
Final Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Recommended Age: all ages
Genres: poetry, theology, Christian living
Follow the author on Instagram: @jamin.step
“Do not think that I have come to abolishthe Law of the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” Matthew 5:17 ESV
“God always writes the best stories.” -Singing Through Fire
As I write this review, my eyes are still puffy, and my head is still aching from crying. Yet, there is peace and joy laced within the sorrow. “Joy in grief,” as Lara would say. I don’t think any review can fully capture how powerful and emotional this book is, and I encourage everyone to read Singing Through Fire, even nonbelievers.
I didn’t know what to expect when Lara reached out, asking if I’d read a book about her life and the passing of her husband. However, I was immediately compelled within the first few pages and couldn’t put it down. It transformed me for the better–having grown my faith, compassion, and desire to live life to the fullest for Jesus. There is so much Biblical truth written in this memoir, and the way Lara writes is poetic, intelligent, and beautiful–drawing you deep into the moments of despair and hope as you walk alongside her and Matt. I feel like I’ve known them for years, especially Lara, as we’ve gotten to talk back and forth since I acquired her book, which made this story all the more heartbreaking and impactful. There is much wisdom to be found in these pages, and somehow, I felt like one of the kids in the youth group Matt so dearly loved. Whenever he shared his thoughts and knowledge, it sank deep into my heart, encouraging me and making me want a stronger faith like his. This book is a mentor to all, regardless of age. I believe anyone will benefit from reading it.
Matt would be proud of Singing Through Fire, Lara. I know it. Not only does it glorify God amid suffering, proving He sustains us in the fire, but it also honors a man of God whose life and testimony will transform people’s hearts from all generations, softening them and bringing them closer to the God we love and serve.
“Test to testimony.”
Our stories are some of the most powerful instruments in the hands of God–evidence of the Gospel and His sustaining grace. They are meant to be shared, and I praise God Lara has shared hers.
First Impression 5/5 The introduction instantaneously piqued my interest as it laid the groundwork for the memoir and its contents. Despite the heavy topics–death, cancer, illness, grief–there was a joy and lightheartedness between the lines. The peace of God shone through the pain and heartache. I found the story’s layout–separated into four Acts like that of a screenplay–unique and creative. Singing Through Fire is based on the testimony of Lara and her late husband, Matt. But even though it’s true, their story is written like a lovable and heartbreaking novel you can’t put down. Lara takes you on a journey from the start of page one with a prologue that draws you into an emotional scene. Despite just getting to know the characters of this memoir, I couldn’t help feeling attached the moment I read the first sentence. Right off the bat, we see how real Matt and Lara are in their suffering and turmoil. Their emotions also help visualize a story promising to be filled with wisdom, light, and hope.
Character Development 5/5 I don’t usually consider character development in nonfiction, but Singing Through Fire calls for it. The growth in Lara’s faith and perspective on life is one only God can bring. Watching her step away from her lukewarm, prosperity gospel type beliefs into the everlasting truth of God’s Word was beautiful. It also showcases the importance of being equally yoked with your spouse. Matt performed the image of a spiritual leader in a humble, wise way, never failing to bring out a stronger faith in Lara. Through his terminal cancer, her chronic illness, and all the hardships to follow, you can’t ignore how their faith grows. Nor does Lara hide her raw vulnerability; instead, she leaves everything bare to better showcase the grace of God.
World-Building 5/5 This “world-building” rating isn’t necessarily based on the setting (though that was equally well-written) but more so the structure of Lara’s relationship with God in the thick of struggle. She paints the most beautiful pictures as she recounts her life story. Even while bedridden for three years–and continuing on and off–Lara’s walk with God grew, and it was vibrantly described, emphasizing the heightened intimacy of her relationship with Jesus. Creativity, love, joy, sorrow, and laughter exuded from the pages, building the story into one of transformation.
Writing Style 5/5 Lara’s words flowed easily. The idea of sectioning the book into four Acts was brilliant. I adored the splash of humor and sarcasm in Lara’s personality and writing. Singing Through Fire is crafted in an astounding way, leaving no doubt that God wanted this book written–for Lara, me, and others. But ultimately, written for Him. Every page seemed to point back to God as the anchor of hope in the storm. He was and is their strength, peace, and life. Along with Lara and Matt’s testimonies, the amount of Scripture on every page added even more life to the words. Most of Lara’s writing was Biblically inspired as she studied God’s Word and compared her suffering and all she was learning through its lens. Like her character growth, we see her grow in knowledge as she feeds her zealousness for God through His Word.
Emotions 5/5 Tears pricked my eyes when I read the first pages, so you can imagine how the rest of the story made me cry. Lara doesn’t hide the pain and suffering she and Matt faced. She doesn’t sugarcoat the ups and downs or brush over the fact that life is hard. It’s painful, and it can feel hopeless. But even in the valley of death and despair, the hope and peace of God shone from this story. I could sense His presence even while sobbing until my head hurt. Because suffering, though often unwanted and difficult, brings people together in a beautiful way. It connected me to this memoir and provided me with a new friend in Lara. I was surprised that it wasn’t all gloom and sorrow, too. The humor made me laugh more than any nonfiction book I’ve read, which is unusually delightful considering this is a memoir on suffering and grief. Lara’s jokes and satirical approach to situations and big questions never failed to put a smile on my face. It reminded me of Proverbs 31:25. Joy is often our greatest weapon against sorrow, even when we can’t feel it.
Cleanliness 5/5 Lara courageously tackles all the brutal details of chronic illness and terminal cancer, which some readers may find triggering. She dives deep into her grief and despair of death, terminal illness, and overwhelming fear of what’s to come. But she did so in a way that provided hope. Even during the constant pain, spinning, brain zaps, vomiting, CAT scans, surgeries, and everything in between, there was never a lack of opportunity for Matt and Lara’s faith to grow. Though these heartbreaking realities of their illnesses were challenging to read, they showcased God’s mighty strength in the face of helplessness. The way He transformed both of their faith is like a ripple effect, a spark that will leave every reader changed from soul to breath. Yes, the sorrow is intense. My heart broke. The tears poured. But so did the hope and joy because of the promise of eternity.
Conclusion 5/5 The last pages of Singing Through Fire will undoubtedly bring soul-aching grief. I struggled to finish the book because I could barely see the words as tears blinded me. It was hard to read how things ended in so many different ways. I could feel Lara’s pain on a level I never knew possible. But the message, even after Matt’s passing, echoed the power of God’s life-changing grace. “The story’s not over yet.” No, with God, every “ending” is a new beginning. This book is a reminder of what’s important and how anything done without God is meaningless. But everything done for God is filled with an eternal purpose. Singing Through Fire was five stars all around and a new favorite book. I can’t recommend it enough, and look forward to seeing how God uses this story for His glory!
Here are some of my favorite quotes (I say “some” because I literally would’ve highlighted the whole book):
“If just one more life is saved because of my suffering, I am happy to go through it again.”
“Life is a precious gift–we don’t waste it, but we don’t idolize it either.”
“Sometimes it’s in our greatest sufferings that God gives us the best opportunities.”
“The Christian may not always be healthy, but he is always loved.”
“When you stop clinging to the illusion that you’ll live on this earth forever and you’re not afraid to die, that’s ironically when you really start living. You start choosing life–not just for here and now, but for eternity.”
“…the God of Christianity doesn’t just allow suffering in this world. He entered into it when He suffered on the cross. ‘That’s not a distant God who ignores suffering. That’s a God who bled for us.'”
“We were never meant to be the source of our own strength.”
Final Rating: 5/5 stars
Recommended Age: all ages, but those 13 and younger read with discretion concerning the heavy topics discussed
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.” Isaiah 43:2 ESV
“We’re not living in a post-truth era. We’re living in an anti-truth era.” -Happy Lies
New Thought: a movement so widely spread, and yet, unknown by its contenders. This movement emphasizes the mind being a form of power that can shift reality. It elevates man to a god-like status, taking the glory from God, and instead, replacing Him with a slimy lie.
Have you heard of this movement? Because I hadn’t. That’s why I’m sharing it with you. God’s truth is being attacked daily, but by His grace, it withstands no matter what. However, to avoid being led astray,we must knowHis truth.
As I grow in my walk with God, naturally, I’ve developed a curiosity to understand my faith, as well as the beliefs of others, so I can better approach people. I had no idea how vast the branches of religion were, or how widespread movements can become. It was overwhelming to say the least, as a new Christian, to step into a world of false truths vying for the attention of every lost soul who happens to stumble into their traps. But thanks to God, we have books like Happy Lies to shed light on dangerous schemes we may be blinded to. I had little interest in apologetics until recently, and this book has only elevated my passion for it. The world has always been twisted and broken, full of “truths” that destroy. Knowing and studying the Word of God is paramount to navigating the waters of lies thrown at us every day in culture, society, social media, Hollywood, and all facets worldwide.
Happy Lies was a fantastic and eye-opening book. It took me a while to finish, but that was simply because there was so much to learn and read about. Everything was easy to understand for the most part, as Melissa articulated everything wonderfully (I adored the splash of comedy relief, too. I never laughed so much from a nonfiction book, and apologetics nonetheless). I found Melissa on YouTube and loved her apologetical and comedic approach to specific topics.
Happy Lies expanded on a movement—New Thought. I had never heard of it before, which is evident in this book, and by the people around me. While and after reading Happy Lies, I’ve asked others if they had ever heard of the movement, and it shook me to know New Thought had so sneakily crept into society and perspectives.
Even my own perspective at times.
This book has aided me in developing discernment (though the Bible is the best way to get the truth), especially since Scripture is so evident in the pages. Melissa touched on all the topics I had questions about and provided answers to things I didn’t know I needed to know. I love how personal and intentional she is, not just stating facts but researching them and giving infallible evidence, even going as far as in-person interviews with people who believe differently from her. She speaks the truth with love and honesty, not sugarcoating what’s blatantly obvious but giving people the reality they crave.
Considering this is Melissa’s first published book, God knew what He was doing. I pray He uses Happy Lies, especially in today’s generation and world. More and more, I’m coming to learn how easily truth can be twisted and contorted into images pleasing to man. But I thank God for people like Melissa who follow His guidance and direction to aid other believers on their faith journeys.
I hope Melissa writes more books in the future because ima read them all!
I highly recommend reading this book, even if you aren’t into apologetics. It’s too easy to fall into the trappings of this seductive world when we aren’t finding our satisfaction in Jesus and the truth of His Word. If you read Happy Lies, you might just be able to distinguish New Thought in the world, your church, your home, and your life.
Final Rating: 5/5 Stars
Recommended Age Group: young adults and above
Genres: Christian living, apologetics, theology
“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17ESV
Loved this book. In a world so focused on overworking itself, in a culture so set on hurry, this book is a burst of light and truth. I don’t know Tara, but she apparently knows me! Overbooked and Overwhelmed helped me in more ways than one, covering all the facets of distraction and the overwhelming results of people-pleasing.
I was going through a particularly busy season when I picked up this book. I felt overwhelmed and empty, knowing I had failed once again in prioritizing God first and giving Him more than a few minutes of my day. I’ve gone through this cycle before, and thankfully I quickly recognized the signs: –Saying yes to everything social in fear I’d miss out or hurt someone’s feelings –Feeling guilty for not doing “more” to prove I can work hard or love people –Hitting burnout, mental, and spiritual exhaustion to the point where I was unmotivated to do anything –Reverting to old mind-numbing habits like doom-scrolling to avoid exhaustion
And then I saw an ARC copy of Overbooked and Overwhelmed at my workplace and thought, “That’s exactly how I feel!”
Tara’s words are filled with a refreshing Biblical truth, reminding one that our ultimate purpose here on earth is not to do everything or overbook, but to glorify God in everything and to keep our eyes set on Him. This is a difficult task when the world around us is so loud, echoing the busyness of our schedules, but praise God we rely on His strength and not our own. Tara tackled all I’ve struggled with in the past and am currently battling with in the present, as well as opening my eyes to new things keeping me from diving deeper into my relationship with God. By His grace, God used this book to help me grow closer to Him.
I’ve been learning that saying “no” is okay and allowed. I even started to practice it. At first, there was guilt, questioning whether I had made the wrong decision or acted rudely and selfishly. I felt the fear of missing out. But then, a weight lifted from my shoulders, and I could feel my soul ease to a calm knowing I prioritized rest over overwhelm and striving to please others instead of God. There is balance to be found in rest and work. Both are important, and Tara’s book helped me see that. God didn’t call us to be distracted. He called us to be efficient, to work hard, but also to rest and be still in His presence.
Thank you for this reminder, Tara. I pray God uses this book to help people find comfort and satisfaction in Christ alone, teaching them to lay down the need to fill something only God can.
I had to return the ARC copy to the bookstore I work at. But as soon as it releases in August, I’m buying my own copy to annotate!! There are too many quote-worthy things not to highlight and underline, like these:
“The life we long for is found in spending our energy on assignments, callings, and situations that are worth it. The life we long for is found in putting our focus on the God things.”
“So when that time comes, remember that you don’t need to say yes to the things that everyone else is doing for the sake of being relevant or liked or approved. You’re only accountable to give your eyes to the One who called you to build, just like Nehemiah. You are here to please God, not man. Yes you’re here to love people, but true godly love does not give in to the fear of man.”
“The effort we put into our relationship with God, whether it’s a great effort, little effort, or no effort, will produce something.”
“Distraction opens the door to distancing ourselves from God, distance opens the door to disconnecting ourselves from God, and disconnection opens the door to complete soul overwhelm.”
“Burnout wasn’t the result of my busyness. Burnout was the result of putting God on the back burner and not allowing Him to sustain me.”
“One of satan’s tactics throughout Scripture is to get God’s people to forget what He has said and promised. When that happens, it’s easier for the enemy to convince them they continually need to do more and to be more. Yet Jesus reminds us in John 10:10 that ‘the thief comes only to steal and to kill and to destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.'”
This book felt like a hug from God. His faithfulness is astounding, and Tara’s book is a wonderful reminder of it. If you find yourself overwhelmed with everything going on in your life, if you feel exhausted and incapable of rest and stillness, if you wonder how you can balance the busyness of this life while still keeping God first, I highly recommend this book. Overbooked and Overwhelmed provides deep and lovely insight into the root of distraction and exhaustion, giving the reader hope in knowing that even in our burnout, God is still faithful. Even when we’re not all there, God is always here.
Final Rating: 5/5 stars
Recommended age group: all ages, but those in their teens and older may find this book the most helpful
Julia Rose Books 