“Rarely have I picked up any book and read it in one night. The Life of a Lily captured me and wouldn't let go. This triumphant story proves that no matter what happens on life's journey, divine strength can challenge it and win. This uncovering of one of God's precious children was emotional, shocking, and most of all inspiring. When you think life's trials have defeated you, pick up your copy of The Life of a Lily. It will prove that the Lord will make a way somehow. I look forward to enjoying Lily's future work. Thank you for inspiring!!!!” --Author Reginald Lee Hameth of Pink Shorts A gift only God can give Lily L. Ratliff's autobiography is an open revelation of her life, and a personal account of all the mishaps God brought her through. She takes readers from her precipice, to her understanding of the things God bore for her, while she gained the strength to carry them herself. She shares questions which will produce painful answers from mistreated and misguided individuals. 'Are you a victim of the foster system, or adopted and want to know, why me? Can there ever be life after abuse or abandonment?' Most people need a catalyst to help direct them toward deliverance and THE LIFE OF A LILY may be that springboard. One of Lily's co-workers says "This book is a balm to the soul, and the sadness of this poignant autobiography is balanced with the joy of God's love and her personal successes". The sharing is, at times, spellbinding and, at times heartbreaking, but at all times, uplifting. Through all of Lily's adversities, she found the power to laugh, not in spite of her difficulties, but because she knew she had a Deliverer. And finally, more than anything else, she knew God had a plan for her life. THE LIFE OF A LILY is for women and men who have been hurt, abused and battered, and also for the countless children who have no hope of being loved and wanted. Lily has been there many times, and she hopes, because of her testimony, victims can awaken, overcome and feast on the joy of the Lord; This story reaches out to you. --Reviewed by Ann Brown, RAWSISTAZ.com “Good Personal Story.” --Pam Perry “I will be to Israel like the water on the grass in the early morning. He will grow like the lily, and have roots like the cedars of Lebanon.” Hosea 14:5 When God spoke these words to the prophet Hosea, He had a plan… just as He had a plan centuries later when young Lily Ratliff was born ‘like a lily among the thorns’ (Solomon 2:2). In spite of her challenging beginnings, the Lily of this story grows like the beautiful flower frequently mentioned in God’s Word.The Life of a Lily is a tender story – not your typical autobiography. She not only chronicles the events of her life from its harsh beginnings, but Lily tells a fragrant story of a lovely flower that blossoms from a small bulb. While her name was chosen by heritage, it is no coincidence that her life was chosen by God. In The Life of a Lily, we learn through her testimony that meek beginnings produce fruitful, bountiful blessings. Reviewed by: Phyllis M. Kusi, Booking Matters Reviewer Amazon: 5 APOOO: 5+ Truly Amazing! The Life of a Lily by Lily L. Ratliff is a must read! There is a certain sadness and awareness that the writer approached, caressed and owned in penning this story of her life. Meet Lily the product of two people who did not know how to love or take care of each other. Once Lily’s mother felt abandoned by the love of her life, she no longer cared if her baby lived or died. Born into this world prematurely, at three pounds, Lily proved to be a fighter from the very beginning and she has shown over time that she is indeed here for a reason. I read this short autobiography in one sitting; where I found myself laughing, crying, concerned and full of every emotion possible. This is not a book for the weak at heart, because you will be forced to feel and walk in Lily’s shoes as she candidly talks about her childhood. Where she fights for attention from her mother, not knowing her father and worshipping her grandparents. Ms. Ratliff has bared her soul and has come out on top after the grueling ordeal that she faced growing up, she was able to repair herself mentally and physically. She is a breath of fresh air-- here to let you know that you are not alone no matter how you feel. That you can not let anyone guide you, destroy you, or kill your dreams because when you are at your lowest all you have to do is call out to God and he is always on time. I recommend this book to readers of all genres! And I look forward to reading more from Ms. Ratliff in the near future! Reviewed by: Cheryl H, APOOO BookClub