Review: The Letter

The Letter book cover on blue background

January 27 is International Holocaust Remembrance Day. It is a day to remember the victims of the Holocaust and an ever-present reminder of how much God's chosen people have suffered throughout their history. In light of that, The Letter by April Barcalow was a fitting book for me to read for this upcoming Saturday. If you're interested in reading this as well, it is available for free to newsletter subscribers.

Book Synopsis

Set in Holland during World War II, “The Letter” tells the story of an unlikely friendship between two strangers, about love across enemy lines, and about finding the courage to shine brightly when the darkness closes in.

Source: Author's Website

Book Thoughts

The Letter may be novella-sized, but there is a deep richness that lies within its pages. This book is the perfect length as so much is covered within the story without sacrificing any content, pacing, or plot. Written in both narrative and epistolary styles, readers get to know Elly and Pieter individually and together as they develop a relationship through letters over time. A number of historical events take place throughout their exchanges, which the author expounds upon in the note at the end of the novella. Knowing that there is family history embedded into this book not only makes it feel more real, but it is a powerful reminder that stories can get lost if it's not preserved. Each of the smallest pictures of what life was like in Holland during the Second World War is vividly captured, bringing readers into scenes of potato cakes and tire-less bicycles.

Beyond the historical details, there is a profoundly spiritual theme that ties all of the pieces together in this story. Without giving it away, it's a call to Christians about the type of life we can live while remembering those who have suffered because of their relationship to God. The events we are facing today may be different in context from the Second World War, but they are the same when it comes to our hearts. If you are looking for historical fiction that tugs at your heart without shying away from the grim realities of war and pervading anti-Semitism, this is a book that will keep stirring in your mind long after finishing it.

Book Summary

Format of book: 📱
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Recommendation: 👍

Comments

Review: The Road Unveiled - Bicycle Adventures #2

If you've had the opportunity to read The Persistent Road by Tim Bishop , The Road Unveiled is the second book in the Bicycle Adventures series where you can follow along for an up-close look at trekking across America with nothing but the wind and the open road. It's a book that will keep you guessing until the end as you get to enjoy the scenic beauty of American national parks. Many thanks to the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own. Content to be aware of : violence, assault, kidnapping, removal of clothing (not main characters) Book Synopsis Two wounded hearts. Long, winding roads. And second chances neither saw coming. Lauren Baumgartner pedals toward Yellowstone National Park, anticipating a grand celebration when she reaches the Atlantic Ocean. But when her wedding plans collapse, old wounds resurface—and a haunting secret still holds her heart hostage. Traveling alone with bear spray and a ...

Review: The Biblio Diet

Over the years, I've had the joy of reading many books on health and nutrition, partly a product of some studies I've done on it and also due to personal interest. As a result, I'm always intrigued when there is a Christian perspective on this subject. I'm grateful that I learnt about The Biblio Diet by Jordan Rubin and Dr. Josh Axe after having previously read Eat Dirt by Dr. Josh Axe. Many thanks to Worthy Books for providing a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own. Book Synopsis In this breakthrough book, New York Times bestselling authors and nutrition experts Jordan Rubin and Dr. Josh Axe offer a simple and holistic plan for building strength, health, and longevity. Based on the ancient wisdom of the Bible and confirmed by modern science, The Biblio Diet’s intuitive and easy-to-follow plan invites you to experience a breakthrough in the health of your entire family by learning to eat and live God’s way. In this book, you’ll receive powerful in...

Review: A Heart to Treasure - Searching Hearts #1

There can be a genteelness to Regency books that allows for reflection while reading about the hardships that people faced during this time in history. A Heart to Treasure by Dienece Darling probes both the heart and the mind, allowing readers to be immersed in an era where trust in God is required when circumstances appear bleak. Many thanks to the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own. Book Synopsis The vicar’s son and the draper’s daughter have fought against all odds to be together, but a storm is coming. One that will shatter everything. Life hasn’t been easy for Obadiah Howard, especially after that misstep at Oxford which nearly obliterated his chances of joining the church. Added to that, he fell in love with the draper’s daughter. But a miracle revived his dreams of having a curacy and his strict father allowed his betrothal to Miss Hill. Only, what if there was no miracle? What if all of Obadiah’s br...