Update: I received an extra copy of this book, so if you would like a copy, leave a comment below and I will choose a name randomly on Wednesday and send you a copy for FREE!!
Return to Me is the first book in the Restoration Chronicles by Lynn Austin.
This is an amazing Biblical Fiction story that will draw you in to the times when the Israelites were leaving Babylon and reclaiming Jerusalem , in such a way that you will feel like you were there.
This is a historical story, and romance, and ever a bit dramatic. The story stays as true to the Bible as it can with only the addition of dialogue and historical details. I felt like this story brought the books of Jeremiah and Lamentations and Ezekiel to life, I could see how these events changed the people.
The story begins with Daniel being wakened to interpret some writing on the wall during a celebration. Quickly we meet Zechariah who is the grandson of Iddo, a Levite and Dinah his wife. Yael is a young girl who watches her mother die and it thrust into a life of astrology. The story continues to twist and turn through the return, through the building of new lives.
My favorite part is watching the love story unfold, on many levels. Watching Dinah fall in love with this new life. Watching Zechariah make self-less choices. Watching this family grow closer and truly value what matters.
This was not a quick read, but it was well worth it! I thoroughly enjoyed the story, I enjoyed gaining a level of insight into the major prophets and the type of life they lived. It was interesting to peek into their families and how they lived life away from the temple.
About the book: From the Acclaimed Author of Chronicles of the Kings
After decades of exile, the prophesies are coming true---King Cyrus has declared the Jews may return to Jerusalem. Iddo, a priest, is sure this is a sign of God's renewed favor. For too long they've remained in Babylon, and many, including Iddo's sons, are losing the faith that sets them apart. And so only a few choose to leave everything to return---return to their home and their God.
Nothing about their journey to the Promised Land is easy. As hardships mount, even the faithful, like Iddo's beloved wife, Dinah, question the sacrifice of following God's leading. Zechariah, Iddo's oldest grandson, feels torn between his grandfather's ancient beliefs and the family they left behind. But one life-changing encounter with the Holy One gives him insight that will change Zechariah---and history---forever.
Bringing the Old Testament to vibrant life, Return to Me tells the compelling story of two men living by faith in the midst of doubt, the women who love them, and the faithful remnant struggling to rebuild their lives in obedience to the God who beckons them home.
Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/pfkmh
You can find out more about Lynn at http://www.lynnaustin.org/.
NOTE : I received a copy of Return to Me, in exchange for an honest review, by Bethany House publishers.
WOW! This book looks amazing! I would even love to read it to my kiddos!
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