Last week was my birthday, and my darling husband came home with presents for me. I'm the first to admit that his presents don't usually make me smile. Sometimes, they perplex me. But it's the thought that counts, right?
Well, this year, he clearly thought very hard when buying me a gift. Among the things he got me was a book by author Lynn Austin. The book he got me was entitled Until We Reach Home. It's about three immigrant women from Sweden who flee to America to escape some pretty terrible circumstances. It takes place in 1897, so it is an historical novel. But more than being historical, it is very religious in nature. The things these three women endure (and no, I won't tell you, cause I don't want to spoil it for you) during their journey is incredible. But the author uses them to show how the women come to find God. It is very well written and very powerful. I was in tears by the time I finished. I highly recommend it.
I was so moved by this author that I searched for more books she has written. I just finished one called Candle in the Darkness. It takes place during the Civil War. Again, an historical piece with religious undertones. Again, I found myself in tears when I read it. This woman is remarkable in how she weaves an accurate historical tale, all the while making you think long and hard about your faith.
She has written many other books, and won a Christy Award in 2001 for her historical novel Hidden Places. That is the book I am reading next.
I highly recommend this author. I think even a person who isn't remotely Christian would enjoy and be moved by these books, so it might be a great way of reaching out to someone you know who needs a nudge toward Christ.
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