Book Review: Until We Reach Home

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Until We Reach Home
by Lynn Austin

Three girls from Sweden set out to come to America and make a new life for themselves. Fleeing from their Uncle and their home they find themselves in uncomfortable circumstances for most of the journey and yet, it grows them and they each come into their own. They learn to trust God more than ever before, and though the road for them was never easy, He was faithful.

This was such a good read. It's a novel in that it took me longer than 1 week to read. It's rich with great story telling and I was so fascinated to read the history of their journey. From waiting in the London tube station, to catching the boat to America. From reaching Ellis Island to taking the street cars in Chicago. History lessons came to life. You will love these girls and want them to succeed. You will hurt with their challenges and wonder how their lives will ever get better. You will rejoice with them through triumphs and be glued to the story all the way.

I am looking forward to checking out more of Austin's books because this was truly a gem!

Book Review: Christmas at Harringtons

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Christmas at Harringtons
by Melody Carlson

I have been trying to read all things Christmas this season and I came across this free e-book in the last few weeks. I am not a huge Christmas novel fan, but I figured I would give it a shot. It is the season after all, and I'm no Scrooge. So I downloaded it.

I started reading it yesterday on my lunch break and was able to finish it by bedtime last night. It was an easy read for sure. But I also found it very enjoyable and unexpected!

The storyline is certainly unique. A woman who just gets out of prison is befriended on the bus trip as she heads out in hopes of starting over with life. Beginning with that trip, nothing happens quite as she imagines, but she finds her faith again and the truth is revealed and proclaimed in more than one way.

Much like Les Miserables it deals with the issue of forgiveness and second chances. Is a criminal always a criminal? We are so quick to judge without knowing all the facts, or even when we do, we still judge. You will think twice about how you would respond to the situation that arises.

Overall, good simple read with a good message!

Book Review: The Faith of Ashish

The Faith of Ashish - Book 1 of the Blessings of India Series
by Kay Marshall Strom

"Remember, you are Ashish. Remember, you are a blessing. Always and forever, remember who you are." These words, spoken to a small boy in India by his mother and father, are a true miracle in and of themselves. Their family suffers greatly as members of the lowest caste in the culture. And as Ashish makes a life-altering mistake his family become slaves to a "Christian" man of a high standing caste. This is their story.

You will want to keep reading this book. Even as it ended, I was ready for more. However, it is sad. I wanted to weep and pray for the people of India. The Hindu religion offers little hope. I wanted to tell these "untouchables" about the love of Jesus. I wanted to yell at the "Christian" land owner who was anything but. There is so much about the culture that is difficult to understand. However, love transcends all cultures and I am so thankful for missionaries there that are practically loving the Indian people. I am also thankful that God transcends all cultural differences and gives understanding and grace to people of all nations.