Dwelling

Dwelling Book Review

Even though this is a personal memoir, it really covers two lives: one of them finding and traveling a hopeful road, and another still struggling to see if there is, in fact, light at the end of the tunnel. The author has dual perspectives. Both personal experience and formal education into the causes and treatments of addiction. This allows her to shed light on some of the failings of current approaches and reveal where improvements are needed. The book acknowledges that Christians may also deal with addiction. They are still real and sincere Christians, in spite of the challenges they face. She shows that it is possible to be both compassionate and respectful. This is desperately needed by our brothers and sisters who may fear a critical or judgmental attitude if they ask for help. The author does not shred the character of her partner, even though at times she had every excuse to do so. She continued to value the good points of his character, without making excuses for bad choices. She also doesn’t hide her own shortcomings. I find this realism helpful. Omitting the worst can cause another person to reason that even though someone else may have succeeded, “they weren’t as bad as me, so there is still no hope for me.” It can be very hard to publicly reveal our worst mistakes, but at times it is a very loving thing to do. I admit that I’m the sort who doesn’t enjoy reading about another person’s pain. However, the book is well enough written that I kept wondering what was going to happen. I won’t claim that it is perfect. (I haven’t found one of those yet.) In rating a book, content and flow mean far more to me than an occasional typo. My own journey in life has never brought me such a close view of addiction. I feel that “Dwelling” has given me greater insight that will be useful if I ever need to help those who fight this battle. I am grateful that the author took the time to share her story.

 Compassionate, Respectful and Hopeful, January 24, 2016 By Sharon R. Miller This review is from: Dwelling: A Memoir about Addiction and Recovery (Paperback)

Dwelling Book Review

Jolene’s writing style is clear, concise and compelling. Her story is one of courage. She bravely provides the reader with a clear picture of who she is. She doesn’t sugarcoat anything. It would be so easy for her to tell her story and put all the blame on her partner, but she doesn’t do that. What an incredible struggle she’s been through. Her willingness to share this with others is a gift. This book will provide hope and inspiration to others who struggle with multiple addictions, co-dependency and the ebb and flow of ongoing recovery. It is a must read. I highly recommend this book.

Corrine Casanova Senior Editor, Gentle Path Press

Dwelling Book Review

Dwelling, by Jolene Jones, paints a colorful and honest picture of the disease of addiction. Anyone from an addict to an average Joe can benefit from reading this account: to learn, to identify one’s own soul sickness, or both. While it is heartbreaking and raw in its portrayal of the pain and suffering of real life addicts, it also plants the seed of hope for change, redemption, recovery and in a God who loves. I recommend it to all those who want to “hear it like it is”. You will grow in compassion for others and you will see real examples of the glimmer and hope that come through recovery and connection with God.

Nancy L. from South Dakota

Dwelling Book Review

In Dwelling, Jolene writes from her heart about addiction and recovery in a very moving and open story of her life with Joe, and the steps of tough love taken through many difficult times. With the help of God, and established recovery programs Jolene moves from despair to accepting the forgiveness of God in her life, through His son, Jesus. As you read of Jolene and Joe’s journey to recovery, I pray you will receive God’s gift of forgiveness, and realize that recovery is a real possibility for you in this life. And may your journey and acceptance of God’s free gift of Salvation and redemption bring you reassurance of life eternal. May the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ sustain you through difficult times, and bring you peace.   In Him,

Margaret Vaughn, R.N., BSN OA How Sponsor Minneapolis, Minnisota