Book Review: Unending Devotion

So, once again, I absolute hate to say that I am behind on my book reviews that are part of the blogger review program for Bethany House Publishers, a well-respected publisher of Christian fiction and other Christian titles. Fortunately, they are extremely graceful, and for that, I thank them. Since I have had some time off during Christmas break, that means plenty of time to read–and time to post book reviews!! 🙂 Today I want to tell you all about Jody Hedlund‘s Unending Devotion. Can we just say… so, so, so, SO good?? Yes, please!

Here is the description of the book from the publisher:

Amidst the dangerous logging camps of Harrison, Michigan, Lily Young is on a mission to save her lost sister, or die trying. Boss-man of three lumber camps in the area, Connell McCormick is an upstanding citizen interested in clearing the pine and earning a profit. But Lily’s desperate search will challenge everything he thought he knew about life—and love. [You can also check out the book trailer here.]

As with my usual style… here’s my five point review!

• First of all, I have read other books from Jody Hedlund. I have to admit, I am a person who does judge a book a bit by the cover [because I know what good cheesy Christian fiction covers look like!]. She lives in Midland, Michigan… where I have spent a lot of time because that’s where my dad grew up and my grandparents still live there. So, I was prejudiced from the beginning to like the book, but I continued to be impressed with the author’s writing style. I have read [or attempted to read] many poorly written books that I celebrate when things are written well. 🙂
• This story is pretty dark. I know that might not make you want to read it, but it’s dark in a redemptive, Les Mis sort of way. Lily is fighting prostitution in 1800s Michigan logging camps, and is one of the most determined characters I have ever read about in her fight to save her sister. I do love that her fight to save her sister escalates to include all who are affected.
• I know I’m already married, and I know that you can’t marry a book character [darn] but I am so in love with the hero, Connell. He is such a Godly man, and a good guy to boot. It goes without saying, but the love story between Lily and Connell is one of the best parts of the book. I love it when couples work together for good.
• I thought Jody Hedlund did an excellent job portraying the time period and true historical events to life. To prevent spoilers, I won’t say too much, but I was really impressed with the research it must have taken to write this book.
• This was a really fast-paced, captivating read. I would highly recommend it. Though I can’t say how long this will be available for free, today, December 26, 2012, this book is free for Kindles. Hope you enjoy!

What are you reading lately?

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers. However, I was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts expressed above are entirely my own. Thanks to Bethany House for the chance to read this great book!