Title: Unforgiven
Author: Shelley Shepard Gray
Publisher: Revell
ISBN: 978-0-8007-4579-0
“No. No, Leon’s words weren’t true. The Lord already had forgiven her,” Tabitha tries to convince herself in Shelley Shepard Gray’s novel, Unforgiven.
~ What ~
This three-hundred-and-four-page paperback targets those interested in a contemporary romance about two scorned individuals trying to move on with their lives. With no profanity, topics of physical and mental abuse, potential rape, and death may not be appropriate for immature readers. The ending has a sneak peak of another novel by the author, a note to the reader, biography, and advertisements.
In this current-day story based in the Amish community of Crittenden County, it has been two years since Tabitha divorced her abusive husband and three years since Seth served his time being involved in an accidental death. Both souls, hurting from the shame of their past, seek second chances in diverse ways as they learn about forgiveness and love.
~ Why ~
I normally do not care for Amish stories as they usually have the same theme of not being accepted; while this one follows the same path, its tenderness in dealing with Amish rules and the English ways shows how acceptance and love of others, despite the past, can be gleaned. I love the relationships of the secondary characters and how they relate to the protagonists while dealing with their own frustrations and fears. Being contemporary, the tale is believable and touching.
~ Why Not ~
Those who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as their savior may not like the prayers or reliance on Him. Others may not care for Amish stories or those that promote wholesome marriages. Occasionally, I had trouble trying to figure out who was speaking.
~ Wish ~
It would be ideal to include the eternal plan of salvation in a story like this that shows God’s amazing forgiveness. Adding a map of the community would be helpful.
~ Want ~
If you like contemporary Amish romance stories that show how unforgiveness can rule the past, this is a heartwarming read.
I received a complimentary copy from Revell. I was under no obligation to give a positive review.
#Revell #UnforgivenNovel #ShelleySepardGray #AmishContemporaryFiction #AmishRomance
This book can be found at https://amzn.to/3V71L1a
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