Believe And Be Baptised

  Hearts Set Free by Jess Lederman is a Christian historical and contemporary novel that deals with life and the battles we face – spiritually and actually. The story contains actual historical figures and is set in 2011 and the 1920’s and 1930’s.

The novel is a powerful exploration of the battle we are all in. “We live in enemy territory, without Christ, we haven’t a chance.” The enemy comes to destroy. Jesus came to give life in all its fullness.

There is much hatred in the world. “Meet hatred with love.” Life was turbulent in the first half of the twentieth century with two world wars. There was also much racial hatred in America. People were killed for their faith too. There are some moving accounts within the novel.

The whole novel is rooted in God with much scripture quoted.

Being a Christian means we will face tough times but we never walk alone as God has promised to walk beside us.

Sometimes we do feel alone and that is hard. “It’s overwhelming at times, God’s silence.” His silence is not the same as His absence.

We are the church. The church is not a building, it is the people. “We don’t need a building… Wherever we meet, we’re the Church of the Heart Set Free.”

Hearts Set Free was a powerful read. It was almost overwhelming at times but I really enjoyed it. I loved seeing the characters develop their relationships with God.

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

JULIA WILSON