A New Purpose

Christmas At Carnton by Tamera Alexander is the most delightful Christian historical read to kick off a brand new series. I cannot wait for the subsequent books.

Set in 1863 at the height of the American Civil War, Tamera Alexander has taken facts and woven them into fiction, making a wonderful heart warming story. War hurts everyone. No one is left unscathed. The war is fought in the home and on the battlefield. The men endure the fighting. The women endure the pain. Everyone suffers.

Not all scars are visible. Some are hidden but need to be faced and life adjusted accordingly.

The women were tough mentally. They fought to keep up morale, raising funds for the soldiers. Ladies aid groups were formed. It gave a focus for the women who had lost so much.

In times of war it is easy to lose sight of God but He never leaves us. “God had been working on her behalf, even though she’d been blind to it.”With hindsight, the handprint of God on our lives is visible. “How often she’d questioned God’s goodness and doubted His provision.”

Men died. Babies were born. The cycle of life continued. There was joy amid great pain. Tears fell. Smiles were raised. God could be trusted to bring us through. “Just ‘cuz you cryin’ don’t mean you don’t trust the good Lawd no more either.”

The American Civil War was fought on the issue of slavery. All men should be free. The novel has a wonderful character, Tempy, an African American cook with a huge heart that dishes out love and care. Her wisdom comes from longevity and she is delightful go know.

All Tamera Alexander’s characters are well drawn and unique. I simply adored them all from matriarchs to soldiers, from war widows to children – all took up residence in my heart.

Christmas At Carnton is not just for Christmas but for all year round. The themes are relevant to our daily life as we learn to trust God in the darkness, pull together and not judge our fellow man.

A splendid read. Roll on the next book please Tamera Alexander.

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

JULIA WILSON