Sharlene MacLaren Reviews

Page One

Added October 5, 2007

Through Every Storm

Author: Sharlene MacLaren
Publisher: Whitaker House
Available At: Bookstores everywhere
Publishing Date: January 2007
Genre: Fiction: Christian/Contemporary/Mainstream
Format: Trade paper
Price: $12.99
ISBN-10: 0883687461
ISBN-13: 978-0-8836-746-8
Author Email/Website: http://www.sharlenemaclaren.com/
Reviewer: Joyce Handzo
Rating: 9 Gargoyles

Contemporary and with a compelling story line, Through Every Storm leads readers closer to the heart of God.

Jeff and Maddie Bowman's grief over the unexpected death of their young daughter threatens to divide their family even further. Divorce seems to be the only solution to a relationship that is steadily declining. Yet, when they're asked to care for a young boy during his mother's illness, Jeff and Maddie open their home, never realizing that their hearts will be changed forever.

These emotionally packed pages will have readers leaning in a little closer, as they listen in to the lives of these realistic characters. The intense sadness and frustration this young couple faced after the loss of their child was shown with compassionate dialogue. Although both Jeff and Maddie were Christians, the intensity of this situation caused them to cry out with agonizing questions. This aspect of the novel was handled sensitively, as it gracefully touched upon some of the harder issues a believer may encounter.

Yet, the bleakness was tempered with a shining ray of hope as a precocious little boy shared their home while he waited for his beloved mother to recover from cancer treatments. This child added a delightful dimension of innocence to the story, as his insightful comments gave Jeff and Maddie a different perspective on their own lives. There is a biblical quote that includes this phrase: "…and a little child shall lead them." Author Sharlene MacLaren adds a fictional and tender twist to this verse, allowing the spiritual impact to gently touch readers' hearts.

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Added October 5, 2007

Loving Liza Jane

Author: Sharlene MacLaren
Publisher: Whitaker House Publishers
Available At: Bookstores everywhere
Publishing Date: April 2007
Genre: Romance: Christian/Historical
Format: Trade Paper
Price: $6.97
ISBN-10: 0883688166
ISBN-13: 978-088368816-8
Author Email/Website: http://www.sharlenemaclaren.com/
Reviewer: Joyce Handzo
Rating: 9 Gargoyles

As readers sit alongside Liza Jane Merriwether in the stagecoach, bouncing along the bumpy, dirt road that leads to Little Hickman Creek, they will soon find themselves willing to follow this extraordinary woman anywhere.

Liza accepts the position of schoolteacher in this fledging, wilderness community in Kentucky, and intends to make a positive impact on her young students. Yet, she didn't factor in the inconveniences and dangers that could place her life in peril. Although most of the town's inhabitants welcomed her presence, there was an element of distrust that threatened her peace of mind. As she steps into her role of teacher, she also commits her thoughts and plans to God, asking Him for protection and guidance.

Liza Jane Merriwether is a character not soon to be forgotten! Her genteel personality is superbly contrasted with her independent spirit. There is a deliciously modern streak in this woman, as she speaks her mind with passion and purpose. The opening pages reveal her determination, while hinting at a sweet vulnerability.

The town's inhabitants are a realistic assortment of personalities, with each one significantly contributing to the story line. Liza Jane's students, their parents and the rest of the community all provide meaningful dialogue that moves the action along. The romantic element develops gradually and hesitantly, adding the perfect touch of tension and frustration.

All of this is held together with a thread of faith, highlighting Liza Jane's deep commitment to God and His plans for her life. Her trust is simply, but firmly, placed in the Hands of One who has her best interests at heart. As this diminutive and determined young woman steps into her new role of teacher, she learns about the limitless mercy and grace the Lord so lovingly provides.

Readers will find themselves Loving Liza Jane and looking forward to the next book in this series.

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