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Recommend this book:
And Their Numbers Grew
An Epic Early Church Anthology
Naomi Craig, Donna E. Lane
2024 Finalist
410 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Danelle Petersen for Readers' Favorite
And Their Numbers Grew by Naomi Craig and Donna E. Lane is a fictionalized version of beloved characters in the Bible and the wonderful things they achieved as the Lord's First Messengers. However, being the chosen ones came with many hardships, and the path to victory was never easy. Yet, despite the danger and animosity these Followers of Christ faced, their spirit of perseverance never faded. None of them knew the wonders they would achieve through their unwavering faith and loyalty to the Holy Trinity. None of them could begin to imagine what the outcome of their willingness to spread the Good Word would be, the rewards they would receive. Join them as they tell of their perilous journeys in proclaiming the Lord’s wonderful Word.
I found myself enthralled by the characters’ acts of bravery and determination in the face of adversity, all of whom were willing to give up their lives to spread the Word of God. Naomi Craig and Donna E. Lane do a wonderful job of conveying the characters’ thoughts and feelings, how they at times struggled with their mission and uncertainty regarding their capabilities. I also loved how Donna and Naomi showed the characters’ growing confidence as they began to accept their roles. And Their Numbers Grew Is a truly special book written for all who believe in the Holy Trinity and its powerful message, even those struggling with their faith. These remarkable people, the first to spread the Good News, will remain an inspiration for generations to come.
And Their Numbers Grew by Naomi Craig and Donna E. Lane is a fictionalized version of beloved characters in the Bible and the wonderful things they achieved as the Lord's First Messengers. However, being the chosen ones came with many hardships, and the path to victory was never easy. Yet, despite the danger and animosity these Followers of Christ faced, their spirit of perseverance never faded. None of them knew the wonders they would achieve through their unwavering faith and loyalty to the Holy Trinity. None of them could begin to imagine what the outcome of their willingness to spread the Good Word would be, the rewards they would receive. Join them as they tell of their perilous journeys in proclaiming the Lord’s wonderful Word.
I found myself enthralled by the characters’ acts of bravery and determination in the face of adversity, all of whom were willing to give up their lives to spread the Word of God. Naomi Craig and Donna E. Lane do a wonderful job of conveying the characters’ thoughts and feelings, how they at times struggled with their mission and uncertainty regarding their capabilities. I also loved how Donna and Naomi showed the characters’ growing confidence as they began to accept their roles. And Their Numbers Grew Is a truly special book written for all who believe in the Holy Trinity and its powerful message, even those struggling with their faith. These remarkable people, the first to spread the Good News, will remain an inspiration for generations to come.
Recommend this book:
Nina Winter and the Age of Exile
T.S. Maynard
2024 Honorable Mention
152 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers' Favorite
While trying to decide which suitor to choose, Tomas or Günther, Nina encountered demons in the woods near her village. Tomas ran to help, but Günther shot an arrow and wounded one of the intruders, scaring them away. But it was not over yet. The villagers, led by Boris, tried to ask the nobles from the castle for help. In response, Lord Vandermeer gave orders to take away half of their crops and arrest Günther, accused of Lord Archibald Braemer's murder. Nina saw a mysterious figure with a painted face in the fog and feared the worst. Finding themselves between a rock and a hard place, the villagers must make a difficult decision. Only Nina's mother, Emma, has the strength to pray. Nina Winter and the Age of Exile by T.S. Maynard, the second book in a series, is for fans of historical and Christian fiction, adventure, and coming-of-age novels.
Nina Winter and the Age of Exile is an action-packed, captivating, and quick read. Although being a part of a series, it is a stand-alone book. T.S. Maynard depicts a medieval village with hardworking people living there. I could feel their despair, and the unfairness of their situation made my blood boil. That's how realistic Maynard's prose is. We meet Nina when she is just eighteen years old and pulls off the petals of a flower to choose a loved one between Tomas and Günther. She goes through a painful stage of inner growth as the events unfold. The other characters are very profound as well. Emma's strong faith in God, Tomas's courage, and his father Klaus's responsibility drive the narrative. I appreciated the fast pace, the many stunning twists in the storyline, and the motivational aspect of the book. I recommend Nina Winter and the Age of Exile to those exploring how our faith impacts the choices we make in life.
While trying to decide which suitor to choose, Tomas or Günther, Nina encountered demons in the woods near her village. Tomas ran to help, but Günther shot an arrow and wounded one of the intruders, scaring them away. But it was not over yet. The villagers, led by Boris, tried to ask the nobles from the castle for help. In response, Lord Vandermeer gave orders to take away half of their crops and arrest Günther, accused of Lord Archibald Braemer's murder. Nina saw a mysterious figure with a painted face in the fog and feared the worst. Finding themselves between a rock and a hard place, the villagers must make a difficult decision. Only Nina's mother, Emma, has the strength to pray. Nina Winter and the Age of Exile by T.S. Maynard, the second book in a series, is for fans of historical and Christian fiction, adventure, and coming-of-age novels.
Nina Winter and the Age of Exile is an action-packed, captivating, and quick read. Although being a part of a series, it is a stand-alone book. T.S. Maynard depicts a medieval village with hardworking people living there. I could feel their despair, and the unfairness of their situation made my blood boil. That's how realistic Maynard's prose is. We meet Nina when she is just eighteen years old and pulls off the petals of a flower to choose a loved one between Tomas and Günther. She goes through a painful stage of inner growth as the events unfold. The other characters are very profound as well. Emma's strong faith in God, Tomas's courage, and his father Klaus's responsibility drive the narrative. I appreciated the fast pace, the many stunning twists in the storyline, and the motivational aspect of the book. I recommend Nina Winter and the Age of Exile to those exploring how our faith impacts the choices we make in life.
Recommend this book:
Climbing To The Sun
A novel
Shelley Burchfield
2024 Bronze Medal
324 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers' Favorite
Climbing to the Sun by Shelley Burchfield started with Kizzy Beecham giving birth to a little girl on January 23, 1901. Seeta Young, the midwife, assured the scared young mother that her daughter looked like a white baby, although her biological father was black. Twenty-seven years later, Callie Beecham ran a small business in Pickens, South Carolina. She offered those less fortunate her medical treatments based on plants, looked after her elderly neighbor, Silas Roberts, and dreamed of becoming a nurse one day. Zeke Young, from the settlement of Liberia established by former slaves, asked Callie to help his wife with complications after birth. However, the Ku Klux Klan considered Liberia a forbidden area for anyone who wanted to help its inhabitants. The pillar of local society, Dr. Earl Davis, declared war on Callie for her attempts to provide medical care to the people of Liberia and her friendship with his assistant, Dr. Sam Epstein. Shaken and desperate, Callie learned that she was not alone.
Shelley Burchfield's Climbing to the Sun is a match for the most prominent works of world literature. Wonderfully written, Callie's story is haunting. Shelley paints a shocking picture of the segregated South with firm, honest strokes. Seeta is a true woman of God compared to the hypocrites calling themselves Christians while burning crosses to scare those who look different or ruining the lives of people who prefer synagogues over churches. Shelley is brutally honest, even regarding Callie, whose moral dilemma runs deep. Shelley's finely crafted characters will stay with me forever. This is also a captivating family drama with carefully guarded secrets and incredible revelations. This page-turner offers us a glimpse into the ancient art of naturopathy. The author presents it as a connecting thread between generations of amazing healer women who knew how to treat maladies with something they grew in their backyards. I highly recommend Climbing to the Sun to fans of drama, historical fiction, and women-centered novels, and to all those who refuse to give up in the face of injustice.
Climbing to the Sun by Shelley Burchfield started with Kizzy Beecham giving birth to a little girl on January 23, 1901. Seeta Young, the midwife, assured the scared young mother that her daughter looked like a white baby, although her biological father was black. Twenty-seven years later, Callie Beecham ran a small business in Pickens, South Carolina. She offered those less fortunate her medical treatments based on plants, looked after her elderly neighbor, Silas Roberts, and dreamed of becoming a nurse one day. Zeke Young, from the settlement of Liberia established by former slaves, asked Callie to help his wife with complications after birth. However, the Ku Klux Klan considered Liberia a forbidden area for anyone who wanted to help its inhabitants. The pillar of local society, Dr. Earl Davis, declared war on Callie for her attempts to provide medical care to the people of Liberia and her friendship with his assistant, Dr. Sam Epstein. Shaken and desperate, Callie learned that she was not alone.
Shelley Burchfield's Climbing to the Sun is a match for the most prominent works of world literature. Wonderfully written, Callie's story is haunting. Shelley paints a shocking picture of the segregated South with firm, honest strokes. Seeta is a true woman of God compared to the hypocrites calling themselves Christians while burning crosses to scare those who look different or ruining the lives of people who prefer synagogues over churches. Shelley is brutally honest, even regarding Callie, whose moral dilemma runs deep. Shelley's finely crafted characters will stay with me forever. This is also a captivating family drama with carefully guarded secrets and incredible revelations. This page-turner offers us a glimpse into the ancient art of naturopathy. The author presents it as a connecting thread between generations of amazing healer women who knew how to treat maladies with something they grew in their backyards. I highly recommend Climbing to the Sun to fans of drama, historical fiction, and women-centered novels, and to all those who refuse to give up in the face of injustice.
Recommend this book:
A Waltz with Traitors
A.L. Sowards
2024 Silver Medal
417 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Stephanie Lynn for Readers' Favorite
A Waltz With Traitors by A. L. Sowards gives readers a glance at a part of WWI and Russian history that is often overlooked in modern accounts of the war. This book brings it to life in such a vivid and beautiful way that shows her love for the people and their culture in this eye-opening fictional account! Sowards knows her stuff, and it’s apparent in this historical novel about the Czechoslovak Legion and their systematic takeover of a large portion of the Trans-Siberian Railway during their time in Russia. In their valiant efforts to claim a new nation for themselves, a free country that was to be named Czechoslovakia, these brave men and their families not only overcame impossible odds but also changed the course of history in the region. We see that through the eyes of a group of men who called the Sixth Regiment home for several years during these dangerous times.
A Waltz With Traitors by A. L. Sowards is different from anything I have read so far. I loved meeting these characters and seeing this time in history from a different perspective! I had not heard of the Czechoslovak Legion before reading this book and seeing a bit of their outlook on the events of the war and their journey to independence in this setting was both enlightening and fascinating! I loved Filip and Nadia from the moment they met, but I quickly fell in love with so many of these characters, and from the opening pages I knew I had found something special! This book is an emotional and heart-warming tale that is immensely entertaining and well researched concerning this powerful and revolutionary time in history.
A Waltz With Traitors by A. L. Sowards gives readers a glance at a part of WWI and Russian history that is often overlooked in modern accounts of the war. This book brings it to life in such a vivid and beautiful way that shows her love for the people and their culture in this eye-opening fictional account! Sowards knows her stuff, and it’s apparent in this historical novel about the Czechoslovak Legion and their systematic takeover of a large portion of the Trans-Siberian Railway during their time in Russia. In their valiant efforts to claim a new nation for themselves, a free country that was to be named Czechoslovakia, these brave men and their families not only overcame impossible odds but also changed the course of history in the region. We see that through the eyes of a group of men who called the Sixth Regiment home for several years during these dangerous times.
A Waltz With Traitors by A. L. Sowards is different from anything I have read so far. I loved meeting these characters and seeing this time in history from a different perspective! I had not heard of the Czechoslovak Legion before reading this book and seeing a bit of their outlook on the events of the war and their journey to independence in this setting was both enlightening and fascinating! I loved Filip and Nadia from the moment they met, but I quickly fell in love with so many of these characters, and from the opening pages I knew I had found something special! This book is an emotional and heart-warming tale that is immensely entertaining and well researched concerning this powerful and revolutionary time in history.
Recommend this book:
From the White House to the Amish
A Story Inspired by the Life of Thomas E. Kirkman
Katrina Hoover Lee
2024 Gold Medal
336 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
From the White House to the Amish: A Story Inspired by the Life of Thomas E. Kirkman by Katrina Hoover Lee is a beautifully written Christian historical fiction novel. This story follows the life of the famous White House artist Thomas E. Kirkman and the many exciting adventures he had in life. Born into a Baptist family, Tom had no interest in religion as he grew up. However, he abandoned all faith in religion when he lost someone very close to him. He worked in the CIA and the White House, but nothing fulfilled him. Grieving and believing that God didn’t care, Tom decided to dedicate his life to his work and nothing else. But the real big change came when an unassuming Amish man came into his life and turned his world upside down. Can a man like Tom finally believe in God and His Grace? Or was he too cynical for it?
Divided into four very detailed parts, From the White House to the Amish was an inspiring and motivational story of a man who had given up on everything. Author Katrina Hoover Lee did a fantastic job of making the reader feel like a part of the story. I felt as if I had known Tom all my life as I read about his life and his struggles. I felt a connection with him the moment he was introduced and experienced every emotion he went through. The descriptions were great, and the imagery was touching. There was never a moment when I felt like Tom was out of reach for me. It was a believable, beautiful journey that gave me the courage and motivation to look for answers. This is the perfect story for anyone who loves to read biographies.
From the White House to the Amish: A Story Inspired by the Life of Thomas E. Kirkman by Katrina Hoover Lee is a beautifully written Christian historical fiction novel. This story follows the life of the famous White House artist Thomas E. Kirkman and the many exciting adventures he had in life. Born into a Baptist family, Tom had no interest in religion as he grew up. However, he abandoned all faith in religion when he lost someone very close to him. He worked in the CIA and the White House, but nothing fulfilled him. Grieving and believing that God didn’t care, Tom decided to dedicate his life to his work and nothing else. But the real big change came when an unassuming Amish man came into his life and turned his world upside down. Can a man like Tom finally believe in God and His Grace? Or was he too cynical for it?
Divided into four very detailed parts, From the White House to the Amish was an inspiring and motivational story of a man who had given up on everything. Author Katrina Hoover Lee did a fantastic job of making the reader feel like a part of the story. I felt as if I had known Tom all my life as I read about his life and his struggles. I felt a connection with him the moment he was introduced and experienced every emotion he went through. The descriptions were great, and the imagery was touching. There was never a moment when I felt like Tom was out of reach for me. It was a believable, beautiful journey that gave me the courage and motivation to look for answers. This is the perfect story for anyone who loves to read biographies.
Recommend this book:
Magdala
The Lost Story of Mary Magdalene
Bridget Erica
2023 Finalist
214 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Emma Megan for Readers' Favorite
Many women’s identities, thoughts, and accomplishments have been erased from history. Women have been robbed of true female role models. Even today, women have no choice but to read and interpret the Bible through the lens of men. But now is the time to learn from a female version. I agree we should not accept seeing Mary Magdalene as a prostitute and sinner just because the Church Fathers portrayed her that way. Bridget Erica is a healer and a Reiki Master Teacher. In her book, Magdala: The Lost Story of Mary Magdalene, she tells the story of one of the greatest women in biblical history. She uncovers the truth about Mary Magdalene, giving back her voice and shedding light on her untold and misconstrued story. This book reveals the true essence of Mary Magdalene’s life.
I was impressed to learn about the world’s first known female author, Enheduanna, a proud princess, priestess, and poet. Magdala: The Lost Story of Mary Magdalene was a read so compelling and clean that it kept me up late into the night. It vividly captures the cultural spirit of the time. I am enthralled with Erica's work of rewriting the story of one of the most misunderstood and influential women and healers in history. This riveting fictional account with strong themes of love and faith will leave readers questioning many of the stories of women from the Bible. Christians who dare to reexamine the holy texts with new eyes will have a different, more revealing appreciation for the path Mary Magdalene walked.
Many women’s identities, thoughts, and accomplishments have been erased from history. Women have been robbed of true female role models. Even today, women have no choice but to read and interpret the Bible through the lens of men. But now is the time to learn from a female version. I agree we should not accept seeing Mary Magdalene as a prostitute and sinner just because the Church Fathers portrayed her that way. Bridget Erica is a healer and a Reiki Master Teacher. In her book, Magdala: The Lost Story of Mary Magdalene, she tells the story of one of the greatest women in biblical history. She uncovers the truth about Mary Magdalene, giving back her voice and shedding light on her untold and misconstrued story. This book reveals the true essence of Mary Magdalene’s life.
I was impressed to learn about the world’s first known female author, Enheduanna, a proud princess, priestess, and poet. Magdala: The Lost Story of Mary Magdalene was a read so compelling and clean that it kept me up late into the night. It vividly captures the cultural spirit of the time. I am enthralled with Erica's work of rewriting the story of one of the most misunderstood and influential women and healers in history. This riveting fictional account with strong themes of love and faith will leave readers questioning many of the stories of women from the Bible. Christians who dare to reexamine the holy texts with new eyes will have a different, more revealing appreciation for the path Mary Magdalene walked.
Recommend this book:
A Beguiling Ruse
Lords & Ladies of Mayfair Book 2
Laura Beers
2023 Honorable Mention
328 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Stephanie Chapman for Readers' Favorite
Rosamond Hendre and Malcolm Brentwood feature in A Beguiling Ruse: Lords and Ladies of Mayfair Book 2 by Laura Beers. Rosamond had become Lord Ashington’s ward after bringing Lizette home. She is stunned when she learns that Lord Ashington has provided twenty thousand pounds for her dowry. The dowry would attract a multitude of suitors from high society. He allowed her to choose her suitor on the condition that she picked him for love. Meanwhile, Malcolm Brentwood’s father tells him they are bankrupt. He insisted that Malcolm marry Rosamond so her dowry could save their estate and more. Malcolm had always loathed the thought of marriage after watching his father’s treatment of his mother. At Rosamond’s ball, Malcolm asked her to dance, but she dismissed him. The following day, he secured a meeting with Rosamond, but the unexpected appearance of his sister with an ill baby changed his priorities.
Laura Beers' book is about two people with secrets that could jeopardize the way that high society viewed them. Lady Anne’s constant restraining of Rosamond with rules places her in awkward situations. Rosamond’s turmoil is relatable. Malcolm’s inner dialogue shows his feelings alternated between duty and morals. I found Rosamond and Malcolm’s arguments entertaining because both sides presented valuable points of view. They also have issues dealing with their vulnerabilities, especially when others pointed them out. How they navigate high society’s gossip, the loss of title, other suitors, and scandal fills each page. There is never a dull moment to be found. The transitions between each character are seamless. A Beguiling Ruse is a story for historical romance fans who enjoy watching characters step out of their comfort zone to do what is right.
Rosamond Hendre and Malcolm Brentwood feature in A Beguiling Ruse: Lords and Ladies of Mayfair Book 2 by Laura Beers. Rosamond had become Lord Ashington’s ward after bringing Lizette home. She is stunned when she learns that Lord Ashington has provided twenty thousand pounds for her dowry. The dowry would attract a multitude of suitors from high society. He allowed her to choose her suitor on the condition that she picked him for love. Meanwhile, Malcolm Brentwood’s father tells him they are bankrupt. He insisted that Malcolm marry Rosamond so her dowry could save their estate and more. Malcolm had always loathed the thought of marriage after watching his father’s treatment of his mother. At Rosamond’s ball, Malcolm asked her to dance, but she dismissed him. The following day, he secured a meeting with Rosamond, but the unexpected appearance of his sister with an ill baby changed his priorities.
Laura Beers' book is about two people with secrets that could jeopardize the way that high society viewed them. Lady Anne’s constant restraining of Rosamond with rules places her in awkward situations. Rosamond’s turmoil is relatable. Malcolm’s inner dialogue shows his feelings alternated between duty and morals. I found Rosamond and Malcolm’s arguments entertaining because both sides presented valuable points of view. They also have issues dealing with their vulnerabilities, especially when others pointed them out. How they navigate high society’s gossip, the loss of title, other suitors, and scandal fills each page. There is never a dull moment to be found. The transitions between each character are seamless. A Beguiling Ruse is a story for historical romance fans who enjoy watching characters step out of their comfort zone to do what is right.
Recommend this book:
Life Dust
Pam Webber
2023 Bronze Medal
312 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
Life Dust by Pam Webber is a historical romance set in the Vietnam war era. Andy and Nettie were looking forward to getting married. Planning their wedding and living in blissful oblivion, their illusion was broken when Andy was suddenly deployed to South Vietnam for 12 months. With Andy gone, Nettie had nothing else to do but worry about him and went headfirst into her job as a nursing intern. While Nettie had to deal with workplace politics and an elderly patient, Andy drew the short end of the straw and had dangerous situations to face. Given the job of escorting Bien, a freedom fighter, to meet a soldier who wanted to switch sides, Andy knew there was something fishy about the whole mission. What would he do in this situation and will Andy and Nettie get their happily ever after?
Life Dust had everything I could wish for in a novel. It had romance, suspense, great characters, and an intense story with plenty of options. Pam Webber did a fantastic job of creating a believable universe, made sure she did justice to the Vietnam War running in the background and gave plenty of space for her characters to grow. While Andy and Nettie were the protagonists of the story, Bien had my heart from the moment she was introduced. Her back story was heartbreaking, yet it proved to be the motivation Andy needed to work just a bit harder and get back to Nettie in one piece. The narrative style was sharp, invigorating, and exceptional. The plot moved with fluidity, the dialogues were crisp, and the characters drove the story forward. I loved it!
Life Dust by Pam Webber is a historical romance set in the Vietnam war era. Andy and Nettie were looking forward to getting married. Planning their wedding and living in blissful oblivion, their illusion was broken when Andy was suddenly deployed to South Vietnam for 12 months. With Andy gone, Nettie had nothing else to do but worry about him and went headfirst into her job as a nursing intern. While Nettie had to deal with workplace politics and an elderly patient, Andy drew the short end of the straw and had dangerous situations to face. Given the job of escorting Bien, a freedom fighter, to meet a soldier who wanted to switch sides, Andy knew there was something fishy about the whole mission. What would he do in this situation and will Andy and Nettie get their happily ever after?
Life Dust had everything I could wish for in a novel. It had romance, suspense, great characters, and an intense story with plenty of options. Pam Webber did a fantastic job of creating a believable universe, made sure she did justice to the Vietnam War running in the background and gave plenty of space for her characters to grow. While Andy and Nettie were the protagonists of the story, Bien had my heart from the moment she was introduced. Her back story was heartbreaking, yet it proved to be the motivation Andy needed to work just a bit harder and get back to Nettie in one piece. The narrative style was sharp, invigorating, and exceptional. The plot moved with fluidity, the dialogues were crisp, and the characters drove the story forward. I loved it!
Recommend this book:
This Hallowed Ground
Donna E. Lane
2023 Silver Medal
480 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Stephanie Lynn for Readers' Favorite
In the masterful historical tale, This Hallowed Ground by Donna E. Lane, readers are taken on an unforgettable journey as Aiden MacAlister, the son of Scots-Irish parents, is swept away in a war that shattered the country. He quickly finds himself lost and adrift as his reasons for fighting begin to slip away. What will he do when finding himself on the losing side of a war he never intended to join? After hitting rock bottom, only to find he had yet more to lose, we see one man's deeply moving tale of desperation, faith, and God's loving redemption that touches the core of what it means to be human.
I loved reading Aiden's story, and in so many ways this is also a story of the land. The United States was ravaged during the Civil War, and later the Lakota people became the Union's focus once the Civil War ended. This hauntingly beautiful account brings their story to life in a new and powerful way and is beautifully interwoven with the faith and truth of God's word. Donna E. Lane offers a unique perspective into the lives and perilous times of these majestic people and their way of life. I found myself drawn in and captivated by the writing of This Hallowed Ground from the opening pages, but it wasn't until about a third of the way that I felt things picked up, from which point this story shines! I adored Aiden's time among the Lakota, which brought to mind the TV series Into the West, one of my favorite historical films. The beautiful themes of forgiveness, friendship, loyalty, and faith throughout this story also appealed to m. Well written and a book you won't want to miss.
In the masterful historical tale, This Hallowed Ground by Donna E. Lane, readers are taken on an unforgettable journey as Aiden MacAlister, the son of Scots-Irish parents, is swept away in a war that shattered the country. He quickly finds himself lost and adrift as his reasons for fighting begin to slip away. What will he do when finding himself on the losing side of a war he never intended to join? After hitting rock bottom, only to find he had yet more to lose, we see one man's deeply moving tale of desperation, faith, and God's loving redemption that touches the core of what it means to be human.
I loved reading Aiden's story, and in so many ways this is also a story of the land. The United States was ravaged during the Civil War, and later the Lakota people became the Union's focus once the Civil War ended. This hauntingly beautiful account brings their story to life in a new and powerful way and is beautifully interwoven with the faith and truth of God's word. Donna E. Lane offers a unique perspective into the lives and perilous times of these majestic people and their way of life. I found myself drawn in and captivated by the writing of This Hallowed Ground from the opening pages, but it wasn't until about a third of the way that I felt things picked up, from which point this story shines! I adored Aiden's time among the Lakota, which brought to mind the TV series Into the West, one of my favorite historical films. The beautiful themes of forgiveness, friendship, loyalty, and faith throughout this story also appealed to m. Well written and a book you won't want to miss.
Recommend this book:
The Earth Remains
A Novel
Shelley Burchfield
2023 Gold Medal
704 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Trudi LoPreto for Readers' Favorite
Earth Remains by Shelley Burchfield spans many years. The story starts in September 1848 and takes us late into 1922. It was bad times in the South, both before and after the Civil War was fought. Polly Burgiss, a white woman, is the main character. Ben and his mama Ona, along with several other slaves, play an essential role in the story. Polly’s hardships begin early in her life with the death of her two brothers. Ona is the slave who cares for Polly and is always there in times of trouble. Ben is Ona’s son and a hard worker who dreams of being a free man someday. We meet many of the other slaves working for Miss Polly, along with the overseer Tom Roper and the man she marries, John Stone. Polly faces many tough times, hard decisions, and frightening situations, but she stands tall and always fights her way back.
Earth Remains is the best book I have read in a long time, causing me to ignore my chores, stay up late and even miss a meal. I believe it can easily become the next Gone With the Wind as a great book and an epic movie. Shelley Burchfield is a brilliant writer who gives us a story with an incredible plot from page one until the last word. In addition, she has created an emotional group of characters meant to be loved or hated. Polly, Ono, Ben, Tom, Cissie, Kate, John, and others became real people to me, and I was magically transported right into the pages. I loved The Earth Remains very much and highly recommend it and anything else that Burchfield writes; it doesn’t get much better than this.
Earth Remains by Shelley Burchfield spans many years. The story starts in September 1848 and takes us late into 1922. It was bad times in the South, both before and after the Civil War was fought. Polly Burgiss, a white woman, is the main character. Ben and his mama Ona, along with several other slaves, play an essential role in the story. Polly’s hardships begin early in her life with the death of her two brothers. Ona is the slave who cares for Polly and is always there in times of trouble. Ben is Ona’s son and a hard worker who dreams of being a free man someday. We meet many of the other slaves working for Miss Polly, along with the overseer Tom Roper and the man she marries, John Stone. Polly faces many tough times, hard decisions, and frightening situations, but she stands tall and always fights her way back.
Earth Remains is the best book I have read in a long time, causing me to ignore my chores, stay up late and even miss a meal. I believe it can easily become the next Gone With the Wind as a great book and an epic movie. Shelley Burchfield is a brilliant writer who gives us a story with an incredible plot from page one until the last word. In addition, she has created an emotional group of characters meant to be loved or hated. Polly, Ono, Ben, Tom, Cissie, Kate, John, and others became real people to me, and I was magically transported right into the pages. I loved The Earth Remains very much and highly recommend it and anything else that Burchfield writes; it doesn’t get much better than this.
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