Wow. I am stunned by this elegant novel. It caught my attention from page one and never let go. The story is absolutely beautiful and the writing was perfect. I could not put it down even though I read it as an eBook. (Congrats to the author for that. Very few books are this way.)

This book was unique due to the fact the diversity. It was a refreshing change and I am so happy to see other countries and people groups represented in the Christian genre. The meaning of this story is clear and stays true to the story of Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz while taking place in the 1800s.

The writing shows how much time and effort that Stephens put into researching the Bible and time period. The writing reminded me of Joanne Bischof's and that is the highest compliment I can possibly give as far as writing style.

I would recommend this book for older teens and adults due to some references and a few uses of language.


Personal Rating: 5 Stars

Content Rating: 1 Star

*I received this book from the publisher on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required. ( )

RTC....

This book is an allegory of the story of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz, but it is set in 1857 during the time of the rebellion of India against Britain. Rena is an Indian who marries Nell's son, Edric. She meets Edric while he is in India in the army. The two fall in love quickly and elope. Just as in the Biblical story, Edric and Air Alistair (Rena's father-in-law) both die. This leaves Rena and Nell in India with no prospects. Nell decides to move back to England and Rena follows her. Rena knew it would be difficult, but she vowed to do everything she could for Nell.

Life was much harder than she could have imagined. She finds a little charity as she is gleaning in Lord Barric's fields. Just as in the Biblical story, he protects her, so she has a way to take care of herself and Nell.

I liked how the story stayed reasonably true to the Biblical account while adding in characters and events to make it feel like something that could have happened in the 1850s. There were people to love and people to hate. True friendships as well as true rivalries. The people had enough depth that they could be flawed and we could still related to them.

This is an author I will follow from now on - I enjoyed this book!

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. ( )

This book has been a joy to read. The author has taken a story from the bible and retold it in a way that brings readers right into the scenes with ease. I felt like I was there as the story unfolded. My heart broke for Nell and Rena as they found themselves penniless and no where to live. The deep compassion Rena has for her mother-in-law is compelling. The depths that Rena will go to in order to keep Nell safe and well is what I would call unconditional love.

Rena and Nell both are grieving a loss but must find a way to survive when there is no one willing to help them. I can't imagine how hard it was for Rena to be called such horrible names by people and still honor her promise to her mother-in-law. I really admired Rena's strength and integrity and she found ways to provide for Nell. The time period was quite fascinating to read about and I loved the British theme in the story.

It is easy to see Rena out in the fields as she collected the loose grains left behind by workers. She never complained about how hard it was to be in the field all day as the hot sun cast heat across her body. When we are introduced to Lord Barric I was immediately drawn to his compassion and humbleness. He was a character that gave off quiet strength and a heart that was pure. Being of British descant Barric is enthralled by the young woman from India. The rumors abound when he takes interest in her. The people who surrounded Lord Barric were concerned that his reputation would be damaged if he was to show any sympathy for Rena. It is funny how people jump to conclusions that Rena must be after Lord Barric's money and that since she is a foreigner she is not worthy of him.

The story is similar to Ruth and Naomi from the bible but is told in a way that delves into more of what it was like to be an outcast and feel like you have been forgotten by God. It also highlights how a person is treated if they are from another country. The author kept my attention by telling a story that went into detail of the struggles of a young woman who made a promise she was willing to keep at all costs. The story flows easily and reminds readers that there is always hope.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion. ( )

"Shadow Among Sheaves" is the first book I read by Naomi Stephens. She takes the reader into the lives of Neva, a woman from India, and her mother-in-law, Lady Hawley from the mid-1800s who are heading to England right after their husbands' death. Both of these women are financially struggling. I felt for each of them. My parents and I have always had it rough when it comes to money. We have had so many hard times with money. It is scary not knowing if you are going to have food or shelter. Throughout the book, we read about how people didn't like mix relationships. Lady Hawley waits to see if she will inherit her husband's estate. Lord Barric has been a blessing for them. The relationship between Lord Barric and Rena was lacking. There wasn't much true love.
"Shadow Amoung Sheaves" seems to very loosely be based on the story of "Ruth" in the Bible. Stephens writing style is unique and flows very well. The main characters are complex, caring, and strong. This is an inspiring story. You see how much their faith is tempted. I would recommend reading this book. ( )