Lynn Austin
Return to Me
book one of the Restoration Chronicles
Bethany House Publishers This is the first book by Lynn Austin that I have read. I hope it will not be the last one. Usually, I am not a fan of Biblical Historic Fiction. I have problems believing what is written when it does not conform to Scripture, or perhaps I should say, my idea of what Scripture is saying. That was not the case with Return to Me. I found the book true to the Biblical account of the Babylonian and Persian empires as well as to the account of the restoration of Jerusalem and the temple. The story is the story of the Jews returning to Jerusalem after a seventy year exile. Iddo, a direct descendent of Aaron and thus, one of the priests, leads those of his family willing to accompany him back to the ruined city. Persecution, danger, God’s anger and His love are all part of the story. Austen has done credit to the Biblical account of the hardships and opposition faced by the returnees. God’s forgiveness against his people shines throughout the book. Often when we read Old Testament History we need to dig for that forgiveness and grace. Austin has brought it to the fore. This ancient history has a message for today. God is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. He blesses those who dare follow His plans and persevere. |
Candle in the DarknessBook One
Refiner’s Fire series Bethany House Publishers Caroline Fletcher, a shy southern girl raised in the lap of luxury, has a rude awakening to reality when her child-hood friend is sold. From that time on, Caroline has an aversion to slavery. She makes no apologies for her convictions. Once the Civil War breaks out, these convictions could cost her the man she loves, imprisonment or even her life. Lynn Austin has written another award-winning historical novel. Set during the turbulent times of the American Civil War, it leads the reader through a maze of ideals and emotions. The historical facts are well researched and come alive throughout the book. The drama as well as the tragedy of war are realistically portrayed. The first-person narration is effective in that it gives the reader a glimpse into the mind and thought of a young lady forced to grow up and face the evils in her society. Caroline’s reaction to those evils is what makes the book such a good read. The book is written from a Christian world view but is by no means ‘preachy’. I look forward to reading more of Lynn Austin’s work. |