As Waters Gone By

Can a marriage survive when separated by hundreds of miles and impenetrable prison walls? Find out in Cynthia Ruchti’s new book, As Waters Gone By. Emmalyn and Max Ross may have to endure the fight of their lives to mend the tattered fabric of their marriage. His actions ensured she could never be a mother and put him in prison, giving their relationship a court-mandated five-year time-out.

When I read, the most important aspect that I look for is the theme or lesson.  I always ask what I have learned from the story or what I should apply to my life.  In the litfuse question and answer with author Cynthia Ruchti, she was asked : 

What do you hope readers learn about the evolution of personal faith by reading As Waters Gone By?

Her answer was this:  I think one of the smartest things Emmalyn did — despite her long line of less-than-wise decisions — was to allow herself to be real with the God who knew what was going on inside of her all along. She risked trusting again. Faith is always a risk. And always a risk worth taking. So is love.  

I love this question and her answer.  It seems obvious to be honest with God, who knows all, but I know that sometimes I kid myself into "hiding things."  Being honest in the midst of the struggle and then allowing God to work in you is the only way it will happen!  We must surrender all to Him, in order to allow Him to fill us and form us.  

The characters in this story really make the novel!  They are quirky and real, and you really follow Emmalyn through discoveries and growth. Readers are able to glimpse into the little things that happen to her to allow her to re-open her heart.  I found it incredibly beautiful and motivating, and I would highly recommend it!


I recieved a free e-copy of this book for review. 

Brentwood's Ward

Michelle Griep is a new author for me.  I was just checking out her website. You should check it out too.  Click here to read all about Michelle, or this is the link to her blog. Both are worth looking at.  I really enjoyed each one and took away some great thoughts.

Now, on to the book at hand, Brentwood's Ward. Nicholas Brentwood is hired to watch and protect Emily Payne while her father is away. It quickly becomes clear that it is going to be no easy task. Just dealing with Emily is a struggle, but that pales in comparison to what else they will face together. As dangers and trials are thrown at them, they must rely on the only One who has control.

Emily and Nicholas are realistic and well-written characters. With a quick-moving plot and a strong theme, I enjoyed both the story and the moral. I needed a little more justification to Nicholas's growing feelings towards Emily, but it is a sweet romance. The historical setting is perfect. It adds to the story and educates the reader. The message is strong and clear, which is what matters most.

Overall: Fun book, interesting historical aspect, solid theme!