March 10, 2014

Return to Me (Book Review)

Lynn Austin is a well known author. Have you read any of her books before?  Return to Me is actually the first book of hers that I've read. Bethany House Publishing sent it to me for review. The genera of this book is Biblical Historical Fiction. At almost 500 pages it can be a long read. It's the first book in a series called The Restoration Chronicles.
This book is based on the Biblical story of the second exodus, when the Jews return to Jerusalem after their captivity in Babylon. The author uses her creativity to bring alive the Old Testament. There were many times that I stopped to think about different passages and stories I had read and been taught from the Bible. This story literally takes you on a journey to the past. It gives you a perspective on the culture and way of life during that time. 

For me the book was a bit of a roller coaster as far as engagement. The beginning really grasped my attention then I felt like it got a little slow and it was challenging to keep all the characters straight. There were parts as I was reading where I definitely had to force myself to continue. I'm glad that I did because soon after a slow section the interest would pick back up again. I'm sure it's a challenge to balance insight into Biblical history with suspense and a story line. I recommend reading this book because it paints a clear picture of the rebuilding of the temple and the events surrounding it. This story really drew me to the Word of God and made me want to read the Old Testament. 

Towards the end of the book there was a main theme that really hit me hard, God can do the impossible. I know it sounds simple enough but the light bulb just clicked for me one day as I was reading. How can we see God's work in our lives if everything is perfect, when all our ducks are in a row? We can truly experience God's power and see his work in our lives when things aren't going as planned when things seem impossible. God is the only one who can do the impossible. If we want to see and experience His miracles we've got to be obedient, faithful and STEP BACK and allow Him to work. 

If you're interested in this book and furthering your understanding of the second exodus you can find it at Amazon by clicking the link below. I would love to hear what themes stood out to you as you read the book.

2 comments:

  1. I love reading biblical history as it makes things so much clearer. I enjoyed reading "The Red Tent" (Rachel and Leah) by Anita Diamont and "Queen Maker "(King David and his wives) by India Edghill. I have on my nightstand to read, also by India Edghill-"Delilah" and also "Wisdom's Daughters"(Solomon and Sheba). Keep sharing your good reads!!!

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    Replies
    1. Those sound like great reads! I think I read "The Red Tent" a while ago.

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