Tuesday, April 4, 2017

Book Review: Shine Like the Dawn by Carrie Turansky


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Title: Shine Like the Dawn

Author: Carrie Turansky

Series: Standalone

Genre: Historical (Edwardian era)

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

In a quiet corner of northern Edwardian England, Margaret Lounsbury diligently works in her grandmother's millinery shop, making hats and caring for her young sister. Several years earlier, a terrible event shattered their idyllic family life and their future prospects. Maggie is resilient and will do what she must to protect her sister Violet. Still, the loss of her parents weighs heavily on her heart as she begins to wonder if what happened that day on the lake ... might not have been an accident.

When wealthy inventor and industrialist William Harcourt dies, his son and Maggie's estranged childhood friend, Nathaniel, returns from his time in the Royal Navy and inherits his father's vast estate, Morningside Manor. He also assumes partial control of his father's engineering company and the duty of repaying an old debt to the Lounsbury family. But years of separation between Nate and Maggie have taken a toll, and Maggie struggles to trust her old friend.

Can Maggie let go of the resentment that keeps her from forgiving Nate - and reconciling with God? Will the search for the truth about her parents' death draw the two friends closer or leave them both with broken hearts?

~ MY REVIEW ~
**4 stars**

Shine Like the Dawn was such a lovely story, set in the Edwardian era, with a little romance and just a dash of mystery and suspense. The faith themes were utterly beautiful - challenging and uplifting, with depth and sincerity. I love novels where the characters are on a journey closer to God, because I can relate to that!

Speaking of characters, both Maggie and Nate were wonderful; with unique personalities, strengths, and weaknesses. It was amazing and satisfying to see them grow in character and learn about humility and forgiveness. I loved the secondary character, Maggie's grandmother! She had such wisdom to share. It was also interesting to peek into Clara's life. I think author Carrie Turansky did a lovely job with these characters and their backstories and personal struggles. But, to be honest, I believe Nathaniel Harcourt was definitely my favorite! *smiles* I just love how he is such a man of God! He does have his faults, but he actively seeks the Lord.

The romance was very sweet and gentle. A couple brief kisses are exchanged in the end ... I adore how they were waited for! Carrie Turansky unfolded this love story beautifully; her characters actually thought in depth and put up boundaries (physically and emotionally) instead of just getting caught up in a whirlwind of romantic feelings and going where it took them. It was so very meaningful to me. ^_^

Shine Like the Dawn deals with tragedy, and some parts were a little hard to read. But in this story comes healing and hope. It is truly a beautiful journey of faith.

All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this new novel from Carrie Turansky! She puts heart and hope and light in her stories, and I greatly look forward to reading more!

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