I have to admit, it was hard for me to stick with for the first ten or so chapters, because it moved so slowly. It is not set in Bible times and places, however it is set in eighteenth-century Scotland, and is filled with customs and culture from that time. This is a historical novel based on a story in the book of Genesis in the Bible. What made me pick up this book was the message on the back cover, which asked a question: Could she learn to live without love for the rest of her life? I wanted to know how this book resolved that question, and I especially wanted to know how it resolved it from a Christian viewpoint. I love to revisit books, especially novels, the way I love to re-live moments in my life, which is why I have a ridiculous amount of journals, scrapbooks and photo albums. I think I started writing them because when I find a particularly inspiring, thought-provoking, well-written book, I can’t bear to lose the memories of the experience. (Mar.)įorecast: Higgs's books have sold a combined two million copies, and her loyal fans will eagerly welcome her first foray into CBA historical fiction.I have been perusing my binder full of book reviews, which I’ve been writing for the past 20 years or so. Higgs incorporates many lovely historical details, and her strong storytelling skills stand her in good stead here. Although Scottish words are liberally sprinkled throughout the text, their definition through context is usually clear, and a welcome and thorough glossary in the back of the book further aids readers. The book feels a bit too long, but Higgs's fine writing will satisfy historical fiction aficionados. Christian fiction readers will appreciate many of the moral lessons gently delivered, especially as James discovers that deception is a two-edged sword.
Despite the predictable story line, Higgs keeps a few surprises up her sleeve, including the device of a proxy wedding (which although historically authentic, may be a stretch for some). Higgs has a good track record with romance novels ( Bookends Mixed Signals), and she handles the love affairs between the younger twin James McKie and sisters Rose and Leana McBride with aplomb. Those readers familiar with the biblical account of Isaac and Rebecca, their twin sons Jacob and Esau, and Jacob's search for a wife will have no trouble discerning how the plot unwinds. The story opens in 1764 Scotland, a month before the birth of Rowena McKie's twin boys. Higgs, the bestselling author of 20 inspirational books, successfully tries her hand at her first historical novel, spinning a new version of the biblical story of Jacob to show the costs of deception and the triumph of love despite adversity.
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