Archive | December 2024

Fawkes by Nadine Brandes

Dec31

Seeking His Voice

Fawkes by Nadine Brandes is a Christian Young Adult historical fantasy that has its’ roots in fact as we follow those plotting for King James I downfall.

Society is divided into two. There is hatred, prejudice and fear everywhere. It is not enough to just be for or against anything. Personal principles and beliefs should be put aside and the truth should be sought.

Life is a spiritual battle. We need to make sure we are listening to the voice that speaks truth and life, and not be deceived by the lies of the enemy.

There are those who claim to speak the truth but they are deceivers. We need to tune into the voice of God.

We see that racial prejudice was all around. A character has to hide her true self behind gloves and a mask. Only when she recognizes a pure heart will she unmask herself.

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Miracle On 34th Street by Valentine Davies

Dec31

Positively Delightful

Miracle On 34th Street by Valentine Davies is an absolutely delightful Christmas book that I adored.

The book is based on the 1947 film of the same name. It is a totally charming novel, beautifully written and one that evokes the true meaning of Christmas. “Underneath all the hurry and bustle people still believe in Santa Claus and all Christmas stands for.”

Even today with all the new technology, Miracle On 34th Street still has relevance. This is a timeless classic and one that I intend to read annually as part of my Christmas traditions going forward.

I love the 1947 movie. As I read through the book it was easy to picture all the characters.

This is a book to be read, savored and kept. It has a timeless appeal that will include all the generations.

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Upon The Midnight Clear by Scott R Rezer

Dec30

When A Bell Rings

Upon The Midnight Clear by Scott R Rezer is a beautiful Christian Christmas dual timeline novel that I absolutely loved. It is the fourth book in A Festival Of Carols series but can be read as a stand-alone.

The novel is set in 1969 and 2018 in Philadelphia. The two time periods are linked by the two main characters who are older versions of themselves in 2018.

There are the themes of veterans and homelessness. In 1969 America was involved in the Vietnam war. No one wanted it but still young men were drafted. “A victim of a war nobody wanted.”

In 2018 there are veterans from the war in Afghanistan. War leaves no one unchanged. “They might have come home from the war, but they never left it.” Many left their minds on the battlefields and returned suffering from PTSD and survivor’s guilt.

Re-integration into society was impossible and many brave men and women ended up on the streets, hiding away, invisible to many. They banded together. “The vets who understood the sacrifices of war.”

War changed the vets and they did not feel worthy to return home. “Most people on the street long to return home. They’re often not sure how to do it.” They found it safer to hide away.

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Letters From Lebanon by Wendy Davies

Dec30

The Lord Will Provide

Letters From Lebanon by Wendy Davies is a comprehensive account of the author’s time in Lebanon during the 1970’s.

We see the faithfulness of God to provide and learn that His timing is always perfect. He is always with us, giving us a peace that passes all understanding despite our circumstances.

The author answered God’s call to go to Lebanon and to be a part of a new school for small children in 1973. In preparation Wendy Davies had “prayed, planned and prepared… [as we] ventured forward in faith.” When God is with our plans, we know they will not fail.

Many children did not speak English, nor were they Christians. There were translators and much love for all the children. “We were seeking to inculcate an excitement in learning… to create a joyful atmosphere… and… a sense of belonging.” The teachers were forward thinking in their attitude to learning as it was tailored to the children’s individual needs.

God’s love was shown to the children and they learnt about Him through stories and song. The children would in turn, tell their parents and grandparents about the love of Jesus.

Lebanon was a volatile area which erupted into civil war. There were times when the author had to return to England for her own safety but she always returned to Lebanon when God paved the way. She felt the pull of Lebanon and the people in her heart whenever she was away.

Whenever there was doubt about what to do, Wendy Davies sought God in prayer. “I had God’s inner peace and assurance about the whole matter.” God doesn’t always calm the storm around us but He gets in our boat and gives us peace.

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