Zora’s Cry

Reviewed By Robin Caldwell

Author: Tia McCollors

Author Tia McCollors fooled me. Following my normal pattern of reading chapter one first, then reading the last chapter to get a feel for the story, I falsely presumed Zora’s Cry (Lift Every Voice) was predictable. It was anything but predictable and it taught me a valuable lesson: There is more than one way to tell a story.

Zora’s Cry is McCollors’ second novel, a follow-up to Heart of Devotion, her Essence bestselling debut book. The story centers on Zora Bridgeforth’s discovery that she was adopted, a fact hidden by her parents who were tragically killed in an auto accident before they could reveal any details.

The discovery leaves Zora with many unanswered questions about her identity, and the mystery of the adoption. And Zora struggles with this issue as she is preparing to marry the godly man of her dreams who provides loving support. But will the adoption interfere with their plans?

Monet Sullivan, Zora’s best friend and wedding planner, is facing another dilemma. A man from her past pursues her with a vengeance. Will Monet cave to his advances under the pressure of a family who wants her to marry? Or will she wait for God’s best in a mate?

Zora’s Cry begins and progresses slowly and almost awkwardly as McCollors sets up the subplots, especially one that includes two other characters: Belinda Stokes who is caring for an ailing mother and Paula Manns, a socialite trying to revive a cold marriage to a man who has no time or interest in God or her. In the first part of the book the women bond through a special ministry of accountability and each of their stories serendipitously intertwines.

By part two, McCollors’ storytelling starts to gel as we are privileged to witness what happens as each woman surrenders to the process of spiritual maturity. The blessing, in fact, is that the author allows Zora and company to grow. Zora’s Cry is more about the extraordinary power of God and his Word in the lives of ordinary women with ordinary problems.

While the beginning of the novel appears jagged in its storytelling, the end justifies McCollors’ means. Don’t presume predictability as I did, instead be open to the author’s intentions. Don’t read Zora’s Cry expecting storylines to be neatly resolved by the last chapter. Expect an ending that is played out like real life: To be continued.

Tia McCollors is currently participating in Anointed Authors on Tour. Visit www.anointedauthorsontour.com for more information.