Abundance

All She Left Behind by Jane Kirkpatrick is a marvellous Christian historical novel. It is an epic read that blends fact and fiction into a wonderful story.

Jane Kirkpatrick tells the story of a modern woman, a pioneer of her time who became a doctor. As well as researching into obstetrics. The reader ‘feels’ the passion of the leading lady to help those around her.

There is the difficult topic of alcoholism and drug dependency. It is heartbreaking to see the consequences of these taking hold. A terrible craving where everything else comes second to drugs and alcohol is terrible to witness.

The novel is peppered with tragedy. Life was precarious in the nineteenth century. Poor choices can spell disaster. Forgiveness ties in to this. “He had yet to forgive himself.” Often we are the hardest person to forgive.

Characters sometimes lose the fight to survive. This description when facing death really lodged in my heart. “It’s still a new beginning… Just one we have to take alone.” Tears are referred to as ‘liquid love’ which I think is beautiful.

There are some very comprehensive descriptions of the landscape, making the area come alive for the reader.

God has a prominent part to play in the novel. There are some battles that only God can fight when we commit our struggles to Him in prayer.

Strong friendships in the novel withstand both time and tragedy.

All She Left Behind is an epic tale of nineteenth century pioneers of medicine. It is a wonderful story that both educates and entertains.

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

JULIA WILSON