This is the seventh book in the Living Insights New Testament Commentary that I have read. I continue to be amazed at Dr. Swindoll's ability to deepen the understanding of long-familiar passages through his knowledge of Hebrew and Greek as well as the culture of the times. I highly recommend this book and series.
Set in 1820 Bedfordshire, England, The Bird of Bedford Manor is a Regency era, Gothic, romantic suspense tale. Henry Russell is struggling to fill his father's shoes as head of the manor and in his business affairs. Being very hard on himself as he works to prove himself to his father, things are complicated by an unknown someone who is seeking to frighten, and maybe harm, his sister. Seeing to her protection and solving the mystery of her tormentor's identity, Henry feels God is providing a helper in his efforts in the form of Juliet finch, a poacher who was apprehended on his property, and one possessing skills he requires.
Michelle Griep once again rewards her readers for patiently waiting for her next novel. Her passion for this time and place, and for exposing the darkness to light, is on full display in The Bird of Bedford Manor. Obvious evil will be exposed and brought out into the open, and the darkness of one's soul will be expelled. I highly recommend this book and am grateful to have received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.
The Caregiver at Wounded Knee follows Rose Rushing Water, a member of the Lakota tribe who had been educated in Boston to be a nurse. While in Boston, Rose's experiences included the pains of prejudice against her people as well as the joys of learning nursing, discovering new authors, and making a best friend. Rose was ready to liver her dream of returning home to her brothers and serving the Indians and settlers residing there. She also was excited to reconnect with her language and traditions, something that was far more difficult than she had ever anticipated. The story of Rose's life leads to her presence at the Wounded Knee Creek on the day of the infamous massacre.
The theme of understanding how an all-powerful and loving God allows people to do horrible things to one another, sometimes in the name of Christianity, and that of justice unrealized are at the center of The Caregiver at Wounded Knee and are well-developed. There is a particular analogy the author uses that goes a long way in explaining why we should not give up on God when people do terrible things.
For the most part, I truly enjoyed this novel. There were a few places where the dialogue or the descriptive prose seemed to be that of a less mature writer, but that certainly wasn't a consistent feature. I enjoyed the story and may seek out others based on this time period in the American West. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of The Caregiver at Wounded Knee from Barbour Publishing via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.
