Author Sharon Garlough Brown isn’t afraid to explore the darkness and light in her new fiction book Shades of Light.

In it, we meet Wren Crawford, a devoted young professional battling with anxiety. Grappling with her experience of God, the will to live and what it means to let go of toxic relationships, this is an all-consuming read that will resonate deeply with anyone who has gone through mental illness.

Giving us the before, during and after of Wren’s time in a mental care home, this is a beautiful and raw take on the human experience that takes the stigma out of real-life events normally kept taboo. Most compelling is Brown’s ability to weave God into the narrative without making it feel forced or religious.

There is no extreme ‘come to God’ moment – rather a series of encounters with friends, pastoral care workers and fellow fighters that reminds us of God’s ability to reach us in our darkest moments through anyone and anything.

It’s important to read this with some caution – while there is no denying this is an excellent and honest read, some content may be triggering or troubling for people. Particularly when Wren or her friends are on suicide watch or in the throes of breakdown. However, the story gives this common experience normalcy, showing readers they are not alone in their struggles and that no one is out of God’s reach.

A rich, raw and important story for people asking the question, “Where is God in mental illness?” An additional study guide is also available for those wanting to explore the topic further.

Shades of Light is available at Koorong.