Archive | August 2016

Christmas At The Ragdoll Orphanage by Suzanne Lambert

Aug24

A Life Living And Loving Others

ChristmasChristmas At The Ragdoll Orphanage by Suzanne Lambert is a powerful memoir of the bond between Nancy and her daughter Susan. It will make you laugh and it will make you cry.

Nancy had a heart just made for mothering. Living and working in Nazareth House for thirty six years meant many children passed through her care. However only one six day old baby girl stole her heart. Nancy may not have birthed Susan but their bond could not have been closer.

The book is written from the perspective of both Nancy and Susan. An overwhelming sense of love pervades the whole novel.

Continue reading →

The Loyal Heart by Shelley Shepard Gray

Aug24

To Protect And Serve

LoyalThe Loyal Heart by Shelley Shepard Gray is a Christian historical romance and I loved it. It is set in the aftermath of the American Civil War. Bonds and vows sworn in war time were not easily broken. The novel follows the fortunes of one group of men who pledged loyalty to each other.

No matter who ‘wins’ the war, the reality is – everyone loses. Husbands, sons, brothers, fathers, friends on both sides perished. War changes people. Peace time can be hard to live through if loved ones are lost. The novel deals with the subject of deep depression and thoughts of suicide. “Perhaps today was not the day to die after all. ” War robs people of hope. People mourn the loss of their dreams. “Men and women of strong grit survived instead of giving up.” It takes courage and determination to live without ones loved ones.

Continue reading →

The Girl With No Name by Diney Costeloe

Aug21

The Good Angel

Girl withThe Girl With No Name by Diney Costeloe is a historical fiction and set during World War II. It has action both in Germany and England. It is an epic read and one that tugs at the reader’s heart.

Diney Costeloe has perfectly captured the traumatic atmosphere of the war years both in London and the countryside. The resolve of the British spirit could not be broken by Hitler. “Offices, factories, churches, homes, all targeted to instil fear and misery, to destroy the morale of the Londoners.” The carry on atmosphere of the people prevailed inspite of the blitz. Londoners pulled together, overcoming against all the odds.

War for the German Jews was catastrophic. Many had fought for Germany during the First World War and saw themselves as German “first and foremost.” As the Jewish people were targeted so that had to decide to hide or flee. The kindertransport brought out the desperation and braveness of the parents of the children involved. “It took brave women with deep love for their children to do that.” The children were equally brave as many arrived in England unable to speak the language and alone. Diney Costeloe has captured their fear perfectly.

Continue reading →

Risen (12)

Aug21

Powerful Portrayal

RisenRisen staring Joseph Fiennes as Clavius is a powerful film of the days following the crucifixion of Yeshua. As a Christian I found the portrayal an accurate representation of the major events after the death of Jesus. As a Hollywood film, there had been some but very little poetic license.

The film moves from the cross to Jerusalem to the shores of Galilee as Roman soldier Clavius searches for the body of Jesus.

There is the theme of awakening as the scales of unbelief fall as the truth of who Yeshua is, is revealed in the hearts of those who come to know Him.

Continue reading →