A REASON TO BELIEVE

Author: Jan Richardson ISBN: NA 10/2006 HISTORICAL/INSPIRATIONAL Publisher: WHITEWING PUBLISHING
Time Period: Galveston Texas, 1899-1900

The first in an exciting trilogy, A Reason to Believe, joins Edwina Jefferson and John Morgan on Galveston island at the end of the 19th century. Edwina has been raised in a life of luxury and privilege but feels trapped inside her mother's expectations for her life. John believes he has been called to the island for a special purpose but finds himself drawn to socialite Edwina. Their lives, and the lives of those around them, are changed forever when a horrific storm ravages the island. Will John be able to hold onto his convictions, and God's calling, in the midst of chaos? Can Edwina find a place in a world that is suddenly different from everything she has ever known? Is it possible that they can build a future together despite the devastation that surrounds them? Find out in A Reason to Believe.

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

I thoroughly enjoyed Jan Richardson's inspirational book, A REASON TO BELIEVE. It is a heartfelt story about a woman wanting to break out on her own and the man who loves and wants to help her. It takes place right before a horrific hurricane that destroys much of Galveston, Texas. This story, rich in history and rich in romance, was an engaging and very satisfying read.

Richardson created characters that exhibit such warmth and compassion that it was extremely easy to feel their heartache and their love. The two main characters, Edwina Jefferson and John Morgan, drive this story with their undying attraction for each other and with their loyalty to family and duty.

When the hurricane hits Galveston, their world is suddenly turned upside down. It was an emotional turning point in the story. Richardson wrote with incredible detail the life of the citizens post-hurricane time. One of my favorite parts in A REASON TO BELIEVE was Edwina's religious awakening and her acceptance of God. It was written with such beauty and grace.

A REASON TO BELIEVE by Jan Richardson is a deeply romantic and inspirational book. I fell in love with the story, characters and setting. I highly recommend reading this book, and I can't wait to read the next book in this trilogy titled A REASON TO TRUST.

Julie Kornhausl