You Go Before Me

Veiled by Cyana Gaffney is an absolutely cracking contemporary Christian suspense that draws the reader in from the start.

The opening immediately presents the reader with questions. “If only she could go back and make different choices.” I was hooked. What different choices were needed? What had she done?

The novel is cleverly constructed with the timeline fluctuating and the character focus changing. I clung on to the action with trepidation and anticipation. The ending was brilliant and has set me up for book two. Let me assure readers though, the ending did wrap up my questions but whetted my appetite for what is to come.

Guilt weighs us down. Consequences of actions have far reaching effects. “She lost herself that day… and God whom she had not spoken to since.” Life will either draw us towards God or push Him away. “I just don’t believe anymore.” If we are wise, we will cling to God.

Though we may move from God, He is faithful to us, awaiting our return. His silence has nothing to do with Him not speaking and everything to do with us not listening. We need to draw near to God and hear His whisper.

The novel is mainly set in Saudi. Here the customs and way of life is very different. There were some hard to read (but realistic) scenes due to corruption and cruelty.

Trust is the focus of the novel. People let us down. Regimes cannot be trusted. God is faithful. If we put our trust in Him, our feet will always have a firm foundation no matter what life throws at us.

Veiled was a powerful if disturbing novel. It was realistic and opened my eyes to the plight of women. It was an incredible story that tugged at my heart and played with my emotions. I can highly recommend it.

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

JULIA WILSON

The Book Gobbler