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MJSH
, July 25, 2022
(view all comments by MJSH)
This book is a definite tear-jerker, full of heartbreak and poignant scenes. Yet it's also a book of hope, true faith, forgiveness, and God's relentless pursuit of us. Get ready for an unforgettable journey between 1916 and 1993 and don't forget your box of tissues. There will be tears of loss, grief, helplessness, frustration but also of joy, grace, and mercy received.
The storyline in 1916 is told through third person narratives of compassionate Atta, her seven year old sister Gertie, their father Niklas, and an arrogant doctor named Harry. The history of leprosy in Massachusetts and the society and medical community's response to the disease and afflicted patients were fascinating to learn about. WWI and the effect of the war played small but pivotal roles in the story.
The storyline in 1993 is told through first person present narrative of Emily, the grand-daughter of Gertie. I loved how the pace and strength of the story came from Gertie's retelling of the past and how Emily's story grew out of the soil of the past and entwined with lessons and truths learned on a leper colony.
The writing, as always, is lyrical and beautiful. This story will sweep you up in a grand and epic adventure of faith and hope. I own most of the author's books and loved every one I have read but this one has to be my favorite so far.
I received the book from the publisher via JustRead Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
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