Be Still My Soul

Recently I met Joanne Bischof via e-mail and discovered a sweet, caring and thoughtful personality. Eager as I was to purchase and read her novels, my book budget had already been met for the month of March. So, imagine my surprise and elation when I realized her title BE STILL MY SOUL was available to review at Blogging for Books. I swiftly snatched at the opportunity presented and began reading the electronic version on my Kindle.

When Lonnie Sawyer's pa forces her to marry a man she doesn't love, she's grateful to escape her father's abusive hand. She hopes for a bright future, but it's evident from the beginning that her marriage will require heaps of work and patience, not to mention sacrifice. Before long, her new husband, Gideon O'Riley, reveals his resentment to being tied down by a bride, with little money and no land to his name capping off his frustration. Will Lonnie find in her heart the capacity to love this unlearned, impatient man she's avowed to? Will she discover that God has prepared enough strength and long-suffering for such devastating circumstances? Or will she become bitter before time can unveil a chance at happily ever after?

With a timeless quality and an entire cast of unforgettable characters that will steal your heart, BE STILL MY SOUL is bound to capture you immediately. It'll take you on a journey fraught with snares, difficult decisions and new-found freedom. You might find it hard to decide which character to root for. Whichever you choose, this book may shed new light on who you are as a person. You'll soon find yourself asking: Do I have the courage it takes to become the person God intended me to be?

Joanne Bischof began her debut novel with a simple, inspiring verse, Psalm 30:5.

"Weeping may endure for a night,

but joy cometh in the morning."

The story that followed was anything but simple. From the setting to plot to characterization, it oozed complexity but not in an overwhelming way. The author's heart is visible in every aspect of creativity and style, especially in the heartbreaking scenes. Her passion is present in each word on every page. It's obvious that Joanne has been given the talent of storytelling. The proof is in her knack for bringing modern-day issues to historical fiction in an incredibly seamless fashion. Keep your eyes out for this lady. She's certainly on the rise!

Visit www.joannebischof.com to learn more about Joanne Bischof, discover fun facts about BE STILL MY SOUL and reserve your copy of the novel.

How have you found Psalm 30:5 applies to your life?

This e-book was given to me by WaterBrook Multnomah for this review.