Book Review: Her Mother's Hope

It's time for a new book review!  This one ranks up there with the last book review I did on Evidence Not Seen.

First, let me tell you about the author.  Francine Rivers is my most favorite of favorite authors.  She's a quality writer.  She used to be in the secular market, then once she became a follower of Christ, she switched to the Christian market and has been on fire ever since.  To proclaim my love for Francine, I'll just tell you that I have read 20 of her 24 (or so) books.

The latest of her books that I read is Her Mother's Hope.

A summary for you:  This is sort of a walk through family history for Francine Rivers.  While all in the book is not strictly factual, it's inspired by her family.  She tells the story of Marta, the character who would represent her grandmother, and Hildemara, the character who would represent her mother.  Francine displays the complexities that affect Marta and Hildemara's relationship.  Marta treats Hildemara, her eldest daughter, differently than she does the rest of her children as a result of various aspects from Marta's childhood and youth.  Written from both Marta and Hildemara's points of view, the reader is able to get inside the heart of both main characters and experience as they may have experienced.  A great and most-challenging read on family relationships.

Reasons for my love:  Francine writes in a most compelling way, always.  As well, I felt I was understanding each character as if I knew them.  This book switches perspectives often, keeping things interesting, and of course, never boring.  Though largely fictional, the historical connections make this story even more intriguing.

Such a good book, there is even a sequel, Her Daughter's Dream.  I am eager to read this next one :)

How is that for a good book report?  Man, it seems a while since I was in high school, or college, for that matter...

Go grab your copy of this book, it won't let you down!

Book Review: Evidence Not Seen

Reading is quite a fun hobby of mine.  I enjoy it.  I learn a lot.  Generally.  So I decided every once in a while I would do a little book review on a recent read.

Take this one for example.  I could hardly find a better place to start.  

Evidence Not Seen by Darlene Deibler Rose is among my most favorite of favorite books.  It's a must read.

Let's start with a summary:  Darlene Deibler was the first woman missionary to Macassar, an island in the East Indies.  She and her newly wed husband pioneered the way for Christ to be shared and for missionaries to come.  They worked their way to the remote island during the late 1930's.  They had already touched many lives pre-World War II when they both found themselves prisoners of war to the Japanese.  Darlene documents the many extremely tough trials she faces during this most trying time in her life.  She lays out her faith and dependence on the Lord.  Even facing death, Darlene writes about her confidence in the Lord and His faithfulness to her, His child.  This books shows God's power and providence as well as provides an example of an awesome Heroine of the faith.

Here's why I loved it:  Conviction.  Plain and simple.  Darlene Deibler Rose was (and is..she's still alive!) a ROCK in her faith.  She trusted the Lord, although not always understanding situations she was in, NO MATTER WHAT.  How powerful her testimony.  How well she knew the Bible.  Her trust and faithfulness to the one who saved her.  These are all things I aspire towards.

Great book, friends, please read it :)  Oh, and you may need some tissues nearby too!