Super Short Summary

Nominated for the 2004 Christy Award, Lisa Samson’s contemporary Christian novel The Living End (2003) follows Pearly Stewart, a 55-year-old woman who, after losing her husband Joey of 35 years, decides to fulfill his bucket list to feel close to him. As she embarks on this journey, Pearly reflects on their marriage, her own aspirations, and ultimately finds solace and purpose in deepening her faith and connection with God. The book explores sensitive themes of grief and suicidal ideation.