Robin Hardy Reviews

Page Two

Added February 24, 2006

Liberation of Lystra

The Annals of Lystra

Author: Robin Hardy
Publisher: Westford Press
Available At: Bookstores Everywhere
Publishing Date: February 2006
Genre: Fiction: Christian/Historical
Format: Hardback
Price: $25.95
ISBN: : 0-9761964-2-5
Author Email/Website: www.robinhardy.com
Reviewer: Joyce Handzo
Rating: 9 Gargoyles

Liberation of Lystra is an exclamation of God's power! This book gently concludes the "Annals of Lystra" series and now readers may add this special 20th anniversary edition to their collection.

Well-loved characters Roman and Deirdre, along with a small but select group of men, travel to Corona to assess the threat in that region. Awaiting them is an attack of supernatural proportions. The group from Lystra fearlessly engages in a battle with everlasting consequences, as they meet the enemy in a different kind of arena.

Author Robin Hardy has filled these pages with sharp sensory images and piercing spiritual insights. The war between good and evil is staged dramatically in Corona, as the forces of hell attack the visitors from Lystra. The veil of the supernatural realm is ripped, allowing readers to see the horrors as well as the tremendous powers of the unseen world. Scarred, yet beautiful, Roman is subjected to torture, as his enemies seek his death. Emotionally packed and spiritually perceptive, these scenes travel the depths of despair as they wrestle the hope of success.

Although a work of fiction, scriptural truths are seamlessly woven into the story through the characters' dialogue and actions. Roman and Deirdre personify that magnificent blend of leadership and servitude. Biblical principles form the foundation of this novel, making it relevant to the reader's life. As the characters walk through these pages, their faith-filled footsteps confidently lead onward and upward. When the book closes, there are good-byes, but also a peaceful realization that the High Lord of Lystra will always be in control!

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Added October 7, 2005

Prisoners of Hope

The Latter Annals of Lystra

Author: Robin Hardy
Publisher: Westford Press
Available At: Bookstores Everywhere
Publishing Date: September 2005
Genre: Fiction: Christian/Historical
Format: Trade Paperback
Price: $15.95
ISBN: 0-9761964-1-7
Author Email/Website: www.robinhardy.com
Reviewer: Joyce Handzo
Rating: 9 Gargoyles

Prisoners of Hope will take readers captive! As an intriguing political battle unveils a more sinister enemy, Ares must lead his people along the one sure path to victory.

It was a delight to return to this mythical, medieval setting and pick up the story line of these memorable characters! The writing of Robin Hardy hasn't diminished in power or creativity. This book takes readers beyond the successful defense of Lystra's capital to a disgruntled ruler who wants to wrest his own victory. He invites Ares and Nicole to Prie Mer as his guests, and then imprisons them with his plans. Will the line of Roman finally be destroyed, or is there a hidden door of hope?

The political maneuvering and posturing was well written and is reminiscent of today's headlines. As readers follow the key players and their self-serving plots, there may be a few sighs of concern. The characters play their roles well and move the story along quickly. The shift in settings from Lystra to the Calle Valley, to Nicole's hometown of Prie Mer, layers the tale with a vital blending of elements from each province.

Yet, this book does more than entertain. Within these pages is a life-giving lesson about the ultimate hope and victory given to all mankind. In a startling and gripping scene, Ares sees this vision in dynamic detail, and readers will behold the wonder through his eyes. And that's just the kind of book this is. On one level, it's a fascinating story, but it's also able to transcend the printed page to touch readers' hearts with spiritual insights.

Prisoners of Hope holds the key to a very special story!

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