Book Review: The Hidden Flame

In first-century Judea, the followers of the Way have burgeoned into a vibrant, growing community that cannot be ignored.

Jerusalem is in turmoil as its religious leaders on one side, and their Roman rulers on the other, conspire to stamp out the fledgling Church. And Abigail, who thought she had finally found home and safety, is caught between the opposing forces.

Two suitors desire the lovely Abigail's hand in marriage. Ezra, a successful Hebrew merchant and widower with important connections among the Sanhedrin, is looking for a mother for his children. The Roman soldier Linux is fascinated by her winsome charm and possibly could offer the sanctuary--maybe even the love--for which she yearns. But her heart has been captured by neither of these. Will her faith and courage survive a heartbreak beyond comprehension as the followers face a gathering storm of persecution they never could have foreseen?

A glimmer of hope beckons Abigail forward...

~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~

I wasn't sure what to expect from this novel as it is the second in the Acts of Faith series, which I have not had occasion to read. Apparently it continues on from the first novel The Centurion's Wife. However, it held its own as a separate story.

The main character is Abigail, a woman who is sweet, and kind and deeply rooted in her faith. One cannot help but like her, cheer her on and to mourn alongside her.

I thought the authors wove in the supernatural aspect very believably, and it was easy to envision it happening as described.

I wasn't satisfied by the ending. It wasn't what I had hoped for, but accepted the explanation of God's will behind it. I admired Abigail for holding fast to God's purpose.

While this book can be a little slow in places and heavy in others, overall it's a fairly good read with great imagery.

Available now at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.