Despite dealing with sin, redemption, religion, and being born-again- not themes I'm normally interested in- I really enjoyed reading this book.

Everyone in the story has some sin(s) in their past that we learn about through their prayers at the church. The only one who doesn't seem able to repent in some form is Gabriel, the father and preacher in the family. He seems convinced that God will forgive his sins but nobody else's. It's easy to hate his character since he places so much blame on everyone else and none on himself, and his righteousness is undeserved. The son, mother, and sister I can all feel sympathy for.
I was a bit disappointed that John, the son, becomes saved. I wanted him to leave the family and find something better for himself. But he doesn't reconcile himself to putting up with his father, so maybe he does turn out okay.