Review by Emma Horrell -- Angels Watching Over Me

Postby Emma Horrell »

[Following is a volunteer review of "Angels Watching Over Me" by Pam Ware & Linda Dipman.]
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4 out of 4 stars
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(i)Angels Watching Over Me (/i) is a memoir of two Christian ladies called Pam Ware and Linda Dipman. They met much later in life, at a time when both women were established in their work, and their journey in life was less problematic. Pam and Linda had different upbringings; their backgrounds could not be any further apart. (i) Angels Watching Over Me (/i) is about how they travelled through their journey separately and how they found each other, by Gods calling. Linda Dipman and Pam Ware take you through their biggest challenges including kidnap, prison and discrimination, they bring you into their lives and open their hearts. Linda narrates most parts of the book using Bible Quotes to support her statements.

Linda Dipman came from a staunch religious family, being married and having children was expected of her. However, it was not a happy marriage and she fell in love, surprisingly to her, with another woman. Family, friends and Linda’s church believed homosexuality was a sin and so she faced many challenges, changing the course of her life.

Her story tells us how she had to overcome trauma, discrimination, losing her children, kidnap and prison. Sharing with the reader, how she dealt with the pain of losing those around her that she loved, those that were supposed to love and protect her. Through this period of helplessness written messages were found, that Linda says God left her, through these special messages Linda was able to gain strength when she was at her lowest ebb.

Pam came from a quite different upbringing. Her parents were successful businesspeople but spent their spare time entertaining and getting drunk, leaving Pam and her sister to fend for themselves. Unfortunately, Pams’ sister suffered with mental health issues and took her frustrations out on Pam. Pam had no reason to believe in God, her background was of neglect and abuse though she had the biggest heart and always felt the need to help others like she did when her grandfather was poorly.

During a serious car accident Pam was visited by a guardian angel who came to her while she was waiting for help. He promised her guidance and she will find God. Pam still had obstacles to overcome- which the book takes you through - whilst becoming a successful businesswoman, setting up a hospice in Colorado to care for those who were terminally ill. A remarkable woman who gave her life, giving others a better ending dealing with patients with HIV, Cancer, Drug Abuse and it did not matter what creed or colour they were, or whether they were gay or straight.

By the time Linda and Pam meet, both were successful in their careers and their lives was good. But their past experiences did affect their relationship, it was a working progress and is dealt with in the book. The book takes you up to the present time and tells you of their life as it is today.

I would have preferred Pam to narrate more about her life, as Linda narrates this, so it felt a little one sided. The book was hard to read in places because of the repetitive bible quotes and the referring statements. I could not appreciate the quotes that were given from the Bible, probably as I am non-religious. However, someone of a Christian belief may find this of interest as quotes are covered by Lindas interpretation of them.

Some people may find this book offensive depending on your views of homosexuality. Anyone who is LGBTSQ I think would find this book eye opening and supportive. It is for people who are open minded and who believes God loves everyone. I thought it was educational, especially learning about their businesses and how the hospice worked regarding the insurance companies and how they paid out.

The book has 9 parts and 34 sections. It is beautifully written with no noticeable editing mistakes. There is no reference to sexual content and or bad language. This book would be suitable from teen upwards. I found it a humbling read. Pam and Linda have brought so much joy to peoples lives. Such strength and determination with wonderful true hearts. Anyone who wants to seek strength would find it in Pam and Lindas story. Through all the pain and troubles, they still managed to keep their heads to move forward and appreciate what they have. The book deserves (b) 4 out of 4 Stars (/b).

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Angels Watching Over Me
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