Trusting God
Unbound Hope by Joy Ohagwu is a Christian romantic suspense novel and what a cracking one it is. It is the second book in the Pleasant Hearts series but can be read as a stand-alone. Unbound Hope is Erica and Jim’s story.
Unbound Hope gives God the glory as it focuses on the power of God and the power of prayer. “Remember who you are and whose you are.” God longs to have a relationship with each and every one of us. He wants to be part of every area of our lives. Being a Christian does not prevent bad things from happening but when they do, God walks alongside us. He has promised to never leave us or forsake us.
Prayer is just a conversation with God. Jim prays to God about every area of his life. “Talk to God before you say no.” He realises the importance of taking everything to God in prayer. Erica has yet to learn this. “Why couldn’t she even pray? Was she afraid to hear God say yes?” Erica fears her past will exclude her from God’s promises.
There is the theme of PTSD in the novel. Erica is a sufferer. She tries to cope alone, fearing to ask for help would be a sign of weakness. She needs to tell someone and surrender to God.
This links to the theme of trust. “I trust no one but God.” Erica trusts God but fears she does not deserve happiness. Her fear is in opposition to her faith but “You can’t hold faith and fear at the same time.”
Everything happens in God’s timing. “God is never too late for anyone who is still breathing.” His timing is not the same as ours but His timing is perfect.
There is the theme of sacrificial love running throughout the novel. “Agape love meant getting in the trenches where your shoes might not come out so shiny.” This love comes in several forms – the love of God; the brotherly bond; the love for the under privileged boys. Agape love is all consuming, always wanting the best.
Racial prejudice is present in the novel. There are disastrous consequences. I did find the words uttered by Jim very beautiful “We were like bothers, and we never saw each other’s skin colour as a separator.”
The past has the ability to affect our present and future if we let it. Erica is haunted by a past event. Jim is searching for justice. both are burdened and need to unburden themselves. They both need the trust of another to help carry their burden.
I loved Unbound Hope. I always enjoy Joy Ohagwu’s novels. Her stories are full of godly themes and advice. They honour God as well as being fabulous reads. Bring on book three!
I received this book for free in exchange for a fair and honest review. No monetary compensation was received and all views expressed are my own.
JULIA WILSON