Sarah Baughman

Sarah’s wonderful gift of storytelling exhilarates me. Her characters in this heart-stirring story each endure various trials and tribulations in their lives, and it isn’t until they each assimilate God’s teaching and accept his love do they find healing, peace, and joy.

Even though this story takes place during the Reformation the message in A Flame in the Dark is nevertheless prevalent today, tomorrow, and well into the future. I learned a lot about my own shortcomings reading Sarah’s story, and I thank you Sarah for reminding me to seek God’s words and his forgiveness.

Fortunately, I have had the honor of reading all of Sarah’s exquisite stories and have so enjoyed watching her grow as an author. A Flame in the Dark without a doubt is her best work thus far and I cannot wait to read what she writes next.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Concordia Publishing House. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.… (altro)

Sarah Baughman’s debut novel, Penelope’s Hope, has all the flavor of a true Regency romance. This Indie author has done her homework — the setting, fashion, and dialog all lend a touch of authenticity to the book. The romance is sweet and the faith message is strong. If you would like to escape to the England of Jane Austen, this book is perfect for you.

Penelope Drayton has been a part of the ton for several years, but she is longing for an escape from society’s expectations. Her plan to win independence hinges on her cultivating acquaintances among influential members of the current Season. When she meets Violet Wyndham she finds an ally and a good friend to help achieve her goals, and . . . Violet’s intriguing brother, Ash. But Penelope has many obstacles to overcome. Her life becomes a deception . . . in more ways than she imagined.

Baughman uses an unconventional premise within a very conventional framework. The Regency period examined in Penelope’s Hope required a delicate balance of honor and reputation. The expectations of society demanded men and women be gentle-born and gentle-bred. The main characters resist the strict manners of the time to live according to their dreams. Penelope lives a double life of Invisible Painter and gentlewoman; Ash pretends an alliance to avoid the schemes of marriageable girls and their mamas. Both Penelope and Ash long for freedom, but they don’t recognize the true freedom that is available through trust in God. Influential secondary characters are used to bring Penelope and Ash to a real understanding of forgiveness, grace and God’s love. In the end, Penelope and Ash discover what is really important and a new life and love.

There are a few mysteries that are hinted at in Penelope’s Hope. In the end we meet Ash’s benefactor, but his story is yet to come. I look forward to discovering what Baughman has up her sleeve for the characters I grew to love.

Recommended for fans of Regency romance.

Audience: older teens to adults.

(Thanks to the author for a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)… (altro)