I might be one of the few Christian historical romance readers left on the planet who hasn’t read a book by Kim Vogel Sawyer. I just like to think I was waiting for the right book that fit in my own little neat pile of likes (book shelf), but whatever the reason and however long it took me, I’m pleased to have read Sweet Sanctuary for all my readers who enjoy faith-based historical drama and romance.
Of course, anyone reading this novel will feel their heart warm for the four-year-old little boy, Nicky. His dad is a drug addict and wants to assert his parental rights just to use the child (for control and money, primarily) and his mother, co-protagonist Lydia, will do anything to save this boy.
The era is WWII and families are being torn apart every day for other reasons and life is difficult. People are rationing good, money is scarce, fear runs rampant, and people are running and hiding every which way across the globe. When Lydia reunites with physician Micah Hatcher, she feels blessed. But he has a secret too….as though he serves many of the immigrant population in Queens, NY, he also provides a hidden service that could cost him his life.
Lydia, Micah, Nicky, and even Nic, are all joined together in a novel that takes on all the horrible conditions for people struggling due to WWII economy, the class struggle between poor immigrants and the elite (and how the war effected that even more), the internal issues and sacrifices in families, forgiveness, redemption, and love. The novel is jam-packed full of emotions that leave a reader feeling connected, as well as turning pages.
I love books that have to do with the social difficulties of stemming from war and leadership, especially how the war changed the lives of people abroad, immigrants and life in America. That is what first drew me to read the book. I love historical fiction that takes on these issues and showcases well-developed, believable characters that work to incite change or overcome boundaries. Sweet Sanctuary does all that, plus gives us a lovely story about family, faith, and love.
I believe all readers who enjoy Christian historical fiction will love this book for its historical and social perspectives as well as its message of forgiveness and redemption. God works in mysterious ways sometimes, and in even the worst of situations, and this book completely showcases that idea in an inspiring way.
Sweet Sanctuary: A Story of Hope and Love Set Against the Backdrop of World War II, Synopsis~
Title: SWEET SANCTUARY
Author: Kim Vogel Sawyer
Publisher: Bethany House
April 2013
ISBN: 978-0764207891
Genre: Historical
Lydia Eldredge longs to provide sanctuary for her young son, Nicky. But a constant threat comes from Nicky’s drug-addicted father, who wants the boy and seems willing to do whatever it takes to get him.
Dr. Micah Hatcher faithfully serves the immigrant population of Queens, New York. But under cover of darkness, he has a secret mission that challenges everything he thought he wanted out of life.
When Lydia and Micah’s paths cross, they are suddenly wrapped up in each other’s callings. Together, they seek a refuge of safety-for Nicky, for themselves, and for the needy people God puts into their lives. Amid turmoil and discord, can hope and love prevail?
Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/jRdKJ
To celebrate the release of Sweet Sanctuary Kim Vogel Sawyer is giving away a Cupcake Club membership (monthly cupcake delivery!) from the amazing Magnolia Bakery in New York and hosting a Facebook Author Chat party on April 30, 2013.
One “sweet” winner will receive:
- Cupcakes from NYC’s Magnolia Bakery delivered to your door every month. (Eat them all yourself or share!)
- Sweet Sanctuary by Kim Vogel Sawyer for you and four of your friends. (Start a book group — cupcakes and a “sweet” read!)
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 29th. Winner will be announced at the “Sweet Sanctuary” Author Chat Party on 4/30. Connect with Kim, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at a trivia contest, and chat with readers just like yourself. There will also be fun giveaways – gift certificates, books, and more!
So grab your copy of Sweet Sanctuary and join Kim on the evening of April 30th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the book – don’t let that stop you from coming!)
I still haven’t read any of hers yet – & I’ve read somewhere around 80 Christian Historicals =)
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Glad to know I wasn’t the only one then. I hope you check this one out!
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