Faithful & True
Fairest Of Heart by Karen Witemeyer is a wonderful Christian historical novel that I read in just two sittings. It is the first book in the Texas Ever After series which is fabulous.
This is a story based loosely on Snow White. It has been re-imagined by Karen Witemeyer whilst retaining the bare bones and putting God in the mix. It is all very cleverly done and enchants the reader from the start.
We see the importance of knowing God. “She wasn’t alone. She had a Father who would never leave her or forsake her.” We can count on God to see us through even if all others abandon us. God is faithful and true.
God rescues us from our situations. “God had seen her through the darkest night… He’d see her through the realities of the day.” Whatever we face, God is already there. God loves each and everyone of us as if we were the only person on planet earth.
Sometimes the person God needs to rescue us from is ourselves. “The destructive power of self-blame.” We can be our own worst critic. God doesn’t want anyone, including ourselves, to bring us down. He wants us to live free and live loved.
God doesn’t look at our outward appearance. “God valued the beauty of a person’s heart, not the packaging it was wrapped in.” True beauty lies within. “She believes her beauty is the only thing that gives her value.” Our value is not in our looks. Our value comes from love – as we love others and as they love us.
A character values status but “one’s background or status made no difference to God.” In Him we are all equal and we are all loved.
There is the theme of home. “Doc had created a family when he’s opened the Diamond D to retired cowhands.” Family is those who love us. ‘Home’ is found in their arms.
Sometimes life hits hard. “Anger at God for allowing it to happen.” God doesn’t cause bad things to happen. People have free will and life just happens – but God is faithful and He walks beside us.
When we wander away, God waits for us to return home. “He needs to come home. To the people who love him.” When the prodigal returns, all heaven rejoices.
We can trust God to guide us in the dark. “God could see. God would lead. Enoch just had to follow.” We need to follow in the footsteps of God.
God looks at our hearts. “He [God] hears the heart not the voice. So, make sure yours is in the right place.
There is a light-hearted tone. “God told us to make a joyful noise not a pretty song.” Praise draws us close to God.
When God is for us, it doesn’t matter who is against us.
I thoroughly enjoyed Fairest Of Heart. I hope there will be many more books in this fabulous series.
I received a free copy from the publishers. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
JULIA WILSON
