While the romance between blacksmith Levi Grant and librarian Eden Spencer was heart thumping and sigh worthy, what I loved about this book was the theme of grace and forgiveness.
Levi Grant had served time in prison for involuntary manslaughter. He is now a Christ follower, living a life of peace and trying to start life anew. Sure there are time when he struggles with his vow to remain a peaceful man, but he has a heart for God and wants to live right. But when his past comes to light, he is judged by his past instead of the way he has lived since....judged by hypocrites who are hiding their own secrets.
Eden Spencer is basically a snob. She has lived her life above reproach and doesn't want any associations with people who might tarnish her reputation. So when she is asked to take in a kitchen maid from the saloon/brothel, she is appalled...what would the town think? To her credit she takes the girl and suffers for it - the town all but shuns her.
The wonderful thing about this book is how God's love is spread through the actions of Levi and Eden. They take on the shunned ones who want a better life, but haven't been given a chance. They stand up for them, no matter the cost. They stand firm until others begin to see God's love and respond in kind. That's true love.
Another thing I loved was the pastor and his wife. They are non-judgmental when it comes to Levi and are the ones who help him to get a job. While Eden is upset when she learns of his past, his gentle ways and his heart shine through to reveal a man covered by Jesus's forgiveness.
We all have flaws. We all have things we aren't proud of. But God is a God who forgives. He loves the unlovable. He stand up for the weak. He lifts up the downtrodden..just a we should.
When have you stood up for what is right, no matter the cost? When have you befriended someone who has been shunned because of appearances or environment?
Let's open our eyes and look for those we can share God's love with. Kindness will make the difference.
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This post is brought to you by
Sherrinda Ketchersid
Sherrinda is wife to "Pastor John" and mother to three giant sons and one gorgeous daughter. A born and bred Texan, she writes historical romance filled with fun, faith, and forever love.
