Blessings From Blessing

From This Day Forward by Lauraine Snelling is a Christian historical romance. It is book four in the Song Of Blessing series but can be read as a stand-alone. I had not read the previous books but all the background information needed was given in the story.

There was a strong sense of community within the novel as everyone pulled together. They worked for the good of the whole and not the individual. They lived out the New Testament church as seen in the book of Acts.

God was at the very heart of the novel. Faith in Him was important. “He fills our house and hearts with His love.” Relationship with Him was vital. His plan for lives was key. “What if God’s plan was not hers?” Lauraine Snelling showed the importance of praying continually and seeking God’s answers in all things.

There is the theme of grief within the novel. “Grief will try to strangle you.” Everyone deals with loss differently. It must be dealt with and not ignored or the pressure will be too great and a breakdown will occur. Seeking God to help you through the hard times and being surrounded by those who love you is the answer.

There are times when God seems silent. “He hasn’t been listening.” God is always listening. God always answers but always in His timing.

The whole novel has the theme of taking care of the widows and orphans. No one is ever left out. This theme goes hand in hand with the theme of hospitality. No one ever goes hungry when God’s people function as they should.

I thoroughly enjoyed From This Day Forward. I always enjoy Lauraine Snelling’s novels. I think my enjoyment would have been even greater if I had read the previous novels in the series and so had been familiar with the characters.

A wonderful, warm read.

I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

JULIA WILSON