THE PROMISED LAND by ELIZABETH MUSSER

 THE PROMISED LAND by ELIZABETH MUSSER tells the story of four people with varying problems who do the Camino pilgrimage together. It is a really inspirational book which brings to mind the words of Jesus in John chapter eight: "You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.", in that they are set free on two levels - coming to know the truth about themselves as well as the truth that the Lord is always with them.

It is a sensitively written book, and as we go on the journey with Abbie, Bobby, Rasa and Caro, there are things we not only learn about each of them, but also things that could be applicable in our own lives.
Abbie, the control freak who has literally driven her husband away and cannot seem to help interfering in her sons' lives, Bobby, who is too ready to carry everyone's burdens and is getting over a terrible tragedy, Rasa, the refugee who has panic attacks and tends to take on too much as well, and Caro with her self destructive and tragic past, are an unlikely group of people, and it is interesting to see how the Lord uses them in each others' lives.
It is a really lovely book and one I can highly recommend.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. the opinions in this review are completely my own.

THE SWAN HOUSE by ELiZABeTH MUSSER

 THE SWAN HOUSE by ELIZABETH MUSSER is a beaurifully written novel, full of truth, with a strong Christian message of love and acceptance, as some hard subjects are tackled by the author. It is not a book that can be read quickly, nor will it be easily forgotten. It is an emotional story of salvation and redemption which is firmly based on God’s word.

When tragedy hits the Middleton family, deep-seated family secrets are uncovered, and life changes for them all, especially for Mary Swan, who relentlessly works to uncover the truth about her beautiful, artistic mother. On her journey of self discovery, Swan battles with the prejudice and hatred against those of a different colour or religion, and gets involved in helping the poor black people of the Mt Carmel church, befriending Carl and his family and learning what being a real Christian is all about from them and Miss Abigail. The family’s beloved servant, Ella Mae, hopes that helping others less fortunate than herself will help Swan in her grief. …..

I cannot recommend this inspirational novel strongly enough, and  I don’t want to analyse it too much and spoil your read. 

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

SHADOW WITNESS by JANICE CANTORE

 SHADOW WITNESS by JANICE CANTORE is an exciting political thriller in which we follow Seargeant Kaycee Carlyle and Pastor Daniel Nelson in their search for the famous actress Jessie Jewel, a former classmate, who has gone missing and is in danger.

The story is fast paced, the characters are interesting and there are all the elements of suspense  that make an excellent thriller. 

I particularly like the strong Christian message of redemption as Kaycee and Daniel struggle with their faith. We also see, particularly in Daniel’s case, how the Lord can change people who turn to him…..

I highly recommend Shadow Witness to anyone who enjoys this genre.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Tyndale House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

THE WOMAN BETWEEN by FRANCINE RIVERS

 I have read and enjoyed all of FRANCINE RIVERS’ Christian novels and THE WOMAN BETWEEN has now become one of my favourites. Her books are well thought out and the characters unforgettable, with the Christian message forming not only the basis but an integral part of each story Her books are well worth waiting for!

The story takes place in the small town of Thurmond, California, in 1875. I love the description of the inhabitants and their involvement in one another’s lives. Amos Wainwright, as Sheriff, makes it his business to keep the town safe and checks on any newcomer arriving in town. When he comes across Clay 

Barrister, the son of his past nemesis, who reveals the past he has kept a secret for years, things get really ugly, and his beautiful daughter Emma becomes caught in between…….

Emma is well known for her service to the community. She lives to help others and feels that by doing so she is pleasing God. She thinks the best of people and makes excuses for them. She loves her father, but she begins to feel her life is no longer her own when he, wanting  to keep her safe, begins trying to run her life……

The book starts with two Scriptures, Romans 12:19 and Matthew 7:1-2 on the dangers of taking revenge and judging others, and ends with the meaning behind Romans 8:28, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called accotding to his purpose”.

This is a story of forgiveness and redemption, as God reveals his grace, love and mercy to thos who seek Him.

I cannot recommend this beautiful book strongly enough.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Tyndale House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.