IF I WERE YOU by LYNN AUSTIN

Publication date 2/6/20
I was so pleased to get an ARC copy of IF I WERE YOU by LYNN AUSTIN, as she is one of my favourite authors, and I was definitely not disappointed in the book. What a lovely story, so beautifully told, and with a really good Christian message. The characters are very believable and we are taken on a real roller coaster of emotions with them.
Eve Dawson & Audrey Clarkson meet in the woods when they are twelve - Eve comes from a poor but loving family and Audrey & her brother Alfie live with every privilege the upper class has to offer, but receive no affection from their parents. This unlikely pair become best friends, but their friendship is not without challenges.
I like the way they seem to bring out the best in each other, with Eve, who seems to be fearless, encouraging Audrey to not be afraid. We see how brave they are during the war and how their characters change with all they go through.
The war changes everything for the English, class distinction meanng less and less as the British work together to save their country from Nazi domination. The book is well researched and the description of England under Nazi attack is eye opening.
In this story we are reminded of the importance of following God's way for our lives rather than our own. We are also reminded of God's kindness and forgiveness towards us, and of the twenty third psalm where we learn about the Good Shepherd who will neither leave nor forsake us.
It is a story about second chances, and the importance of forgiveness, especially towards oneself.
I cannot recommend If I Were You strongly enough.



- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

LIKE FLAMES IN THE NIGHT by CONNILYN COSSETTE

Publication date 3/3/20
LIKE FLAMES IN THE NIGHT is another beautiful book by CONNILYN COSSETTE. I cannot recommend it highly enough, for its historical and biblical truths, exciting story, sweet romance and interesting characters. Although this novel can be read as a stand alone, I suggest you read the first three books in the series. You will not be sorry! This author has a special understanding of biblical times and a way of bringing her readers right into the middle of the story. Her ficticious characters enhance, rather than detract from, the biblical account.
This is Tirzah's story, and with her we come across some of the characters we have grown to love in the previous books. It is lovely to see everything tying up in what seems to be the end of the series.
The Christian message is very strong. There is a theme of justice, mercy, repentance and forgiveness running through the book. I love the way we are reminded of our Messiah Yeshua as we see Yahweh's dealings with His often disobedient people, and His destruction of their enemies when they come back to Him in repentance. It is a most enjoyable and inspirational read.
I am not going to tell you any more for fear of spoiling things for you.



- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad