JAN DREXLER
What a wonderful story this is with characters that are easy to fall in love in. I loved how the author captured the time period and weaved a beautiful theme of forgiveness and hope.
Ruby has always thought of herself as unattractive and not marriage material. What I liked about her was how vulnerable she was. Her heart for others is a great reminder of how we should help others. When she sees that a family needs help, she welcomes them into her family’s home. Without hesitation she helps care for the children as well as the mother was is gravely ill.
It was interesting to read how close she became to Lavinia while caring for her. There are some emotional parts in the book that may cause tears, so be warned. There is a promise made to Lavinia that Ruby is not sure she can keep. Have you ever broken a promise? Gideon has a lot to deal with and turns to Ruby for help. It was not surprising that people in the community disapproved of their arrangement.
The story is well written with historical facts that bring the past to life. I loved reading about the Civil War and the destruction it did to families. Sometimes we forget about the civilians in a war who pay a big price for their freedom. The author has written a beautiful example of following your heart and allowing God to lead you to forgiveness.
I received a copy of this book from Revell Reads Blog Program. The review is my own opinion.
LEADERS, NATIONS, AND GOD invites readers to a six-week journey to explore the Bible’s message for the nations of the world, their leaders, and for Christians who live as citizens of those nations. By focusing on the biblical history of Israel and the United States, the reader discovers the nature of true, faithful leadership and the consequences when a leader compromises, as well as the sorts of nations that God may bless. Marta E. Greenman helps readers understand how scriptural principles apply to nations and to individuals alike.
For over twenty years, Marta has traveled extensively as a missionary, evangelist and Bible teacher sharing God’s message of truth and redemption. She is a teacher of teachers. She is host of Under God Radio Show and Co-host of Refining Friends. She is the author of three Bible studies, 
When Shirley and Bill set out on a dream trip in the beautiful northwest wilderness to celebrate their 40th anniversary, what develops is a nightmare that has no end. Mysterious pangs turn into a vicious virus that makes its way into Bill’s body. Shirley finds comfort through her Savior during the six months of Bill’s illness—an illness which eventually takes his life.
Shirley Quiring Mozena is an outdoors woman, musician, amateur chef, and former elementary music teacher and librarian. She has survived the hardest test of her faith and now works with others grieving the loss of loved ones.
She was framed! Or was she?