Have you ever read a book that is hauntingly beautiful? It is emotional, unbelievable yet believable, and has a multitude of twists and turns in it. These types of books are ones that keep you reading and provide food for thought. As the Tide Comes In by authors Cindy Woodsmall and Erin Woodsmall is a Christian novel unlike any I have read. It is a contemporary Southern tale that softly took my hand to lead me into its story. Within a few pages its grip tightened until I was unable to turn loose of this powerful book until I had finished it. It held me tightly. I experienced this book which is much better than merely reading it.
In this exceptionally well written, well thought, and well planned book, the characters are so artfully crafted that they come alive on the pages. The same with the scenes. It felt like I was watching a movie play out before my eyes. Yes, this book would make a wonderful movie! The sights and sounds were spot on. The authors did not over elaborate or bore, but they gave just the right amount. Perfect wording to pick a reader up from a chair and magically transport her (in my case) in to her pages. Dialog between characters flowed smoothly which is crucial for me in books. Not only did I make new friends, but I could put myself in the place of the book’s heroine, Tara. I felt her entire gambit of emotions and at times I was in tears. Only an expertly written book could make that happen.
Opening with an eighteen year old Tara, As the Tide Comes In tells her story. She is contacted by her younger half-brothers’ grandmother, a favorite secondary character for me. Things quickly move ahead twelve years in the future. It is also the story of Firefighter Gavin and his four mothers. Yes, I said four mothers. There are twists and turns, heartbreaking moments, inspiration, encouragement, mystery, and intrigue. No more details. You really must read this fabulous book.
It would be a disservice to disclose much about this amazing book in a review. It should be savored and relished on its own. Trust me when I tell you the authors do a great job writing a story that captivates, teaches, and inspires. It brings glory to God. This is a tale of faith, hope, trust, love, forgiveness, struggle, and triumph. Character, overcoming crisis, family, and loss are topics tackled with finesse. There are so many life lessons in this 339 page book.
If you or your book club are looking for a great book, this is it. You will want to discuss it with someone because of how stirring it is. I highly recommend it and can only hope to see it on the big screen or television one day. Five out of five stars are gladly given. Don’t miss this experience.
Six long years ago, Captain Reynolds Macy sailed away from his bride, looking forward to the day when he would return to Nantucket Island with a ship’s hold full of whale oil. But when that momentous day finally arrives, Ren soon discovers that everything has changed in his absence. Everything. “Is nothing on this island as it appears to be?” he whispers in despair.
Carol-award winner Suzanne Woods Fisher writes untold stories about inspiring people. With over one million copies of her books sold worldwide, she is the bestselling author of fiction and non-fiction, ranging from Amish Peace: Simple Wisdom for a Complicated World to the historical novel Anna’s Crossing.
We find Mandy and hubby running a Bed and Breakfast in Indiana. Her best friend, Ellen works there along side her. One day Mandy and her family receive word of a family emergency which causes them to need to quickly pick up and relocate to Hawaii. Ellen jumps in requesting permission to go and help, too, when another crisis hits. She receives permission and flies, on a plane, to Hawaii. Oh the places you’ll go, Ellen! Who could imagine Hawaiian Amish? Wanda and Jean, of course!
to trust Him, and have faith. Friendship is shown throughout this book. Giving readers pause to reflect upon what kind of friend they are? What would they do for a friend? Do we pray with our friends? Also, family and religious dynamics are explored. What happens when you are away from the guidance of family? How does it effect the family if you marry outside your (their) cultural beliefs?
She discusses religious differences among Christians, drugs, war, faith, trust, and love. How about trying to make everyone happy? Who hasn’t been in that situation before? John David’s Calling is very inspiring and will encourage readers to think long after they have finished it. Leaning on God is stressed, as is trusting in Him.
Oh, but now I anticipate that first sip each morning. Yum! The Babylon Bee’s “How to Be a Perfect Christian, Your Comprehensive Guide to flawless spiritual living” is a hardback Christian Satire. Some people will laugh out loud at that type of humor.
Soli Deo gloria. This is a Latin term meaning Glory to God alone. Wow. This book was essentially dedicated and written to the Glory of God. It was not meant to poke fun at Him but at misguided people so I gave it a read.
Abba's Prayer Warrior Princess 