The Attractiveness of Wisdom - Book Review

The Attractiveness of Wisdom, by Judy Kelly, is contemporary fiction from a unique point of view. The novel’s theme, the devastation and heartache of divorce as a life-changing challenge, is from the husband’s perspective.   Hamilton Maddox has refused to recognize the problems facing his marriage to HolliAnne. His long-held belief that “marriage is a community of two… people (who) decide on the tenets of their marriage and work together toward a prosperous future” has failed him. As a result, Hamilton hasn’t dared confront her or himself, preferring to control the status quo. This is a heart-squeezing and charming story that will appeal to women who would like to better understand men’s personalities, emotions, and perspectives.

With the divorce final and no sign of reconciliation, Hamilton is forced to start a new life. Instead of feeling free and unchained, he experiences feelings of insignificance, “hollow, lonely, betrayed, and cheated.” His sense of loss of control of his life weighs heavily on his heart and soul as he attempts to rationalize that some things are beyond his control. The reader is sympathetic as Hamilton, dedicated custodial father of three sets out to repurpose his life and become a better person worthy of love. He had always been the decision-maker, the provider, the fix-it man. What happened to that invincible man? Can he find out who he really is and what he really wants so he can stop hurting? 

The author’s talent is especially evident in her ability to present unique characters throughout the story. Each of the minor characters who influence Hamilton on his road to discovery elicits a story of their own. Anita, a young woman whose fiancé died just before their wedding, challenges him to enter the risk-taking arena. Franny, a dance instructor, helps Hamilton to be less afraid of responsibilities beyond his control, and Emma, with a unique back story, offers Hamilton an unexpected blessing.

The author offers the reader many take-aways to remember and apply in their own life.

Hamilton struggles to recognize that he was so busy controlling his own life and the lives of those around him that he missed enjoying life. He learns to be a friend and confidant and take risks involving his heart.

Both spellbinding and tender, this tale is a celebration of unique personalities and a call for readers to muster the courage to fight for what is right. A wise friend shares with Hamilton, “We don’t control our lives. God does.” “Just follow Him.