A New Name

Bitter Eyes No More by April W Gardner is a Christian historical adventure. It is the fourth book in the Creek Country Saga but can be read as a stand-alone. It is an epic tale and swash buckling adventure that both educates and entertains. and I enjoyed it.

Bitter Eyes No More is set in Spanish Florida in 1817. It documents the struggles between the Spanish, Americans and the native Americans. It was indeed a time of unrest. Through April Gardner’s detailed descriptions, the reader is transported two centuries back through time. The highs and lows, the fear, the elation can all be experienced by the reader.

There are many themes including that of forgiveness. “Did He love her enough to forgive it all?” God always forgives a repentant heart. There is no sin that will ever separate the repentant heart from God. Christ paid the price for all our sins on the cross. He offers us all grace and forgiveness, it is up to us to choose whether to accept His gift. We too, must forgive others and that includes ourselves.

Whatever happens, God is sovereign. It is possible to experience His peace in the midst of turmoil.

There is the topic of the prodigals and God’s grace. No matter what we have done, our heavenly Father longs to welcome us home. His grace will cover all our misdemeanours.

Children are innocent of their parent’s sins. This is shown within the novel where children are welcomed and celebrated.

Love covers the whole story. Love comes in many different forms but none greater than the love God has for all His children.

Names are important. Names are personal. A new name signifies a character change. In God we are all a new creation and He gives us new names – forgiven. Loved. Restored.

Bitter Eyes No More was an epic read which I really enjoyed. I ‘experienced’ both history and the faithfulness of God from the safety of my sofa.

A comprehensive swash buckling adventure.

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

JULIA WILSON