Review: Loved the theme and message
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 10 1, 2013
It's 4 1/2 stars.This is #2 in the Colors of Faith series (All the Blue of Heaven is #1).Margaret is a character ahead of her time, and held prisoner by her social status and gender. She wants to do more to help the Chinese workers, and is frustrated with the lack of action by those who could be in a position to do it. She recognizes Ezra as someone who can indeed help her raise social consciousness for the plight of the Chinese, and she launches her plan without thinking through all the possible consequences.Ezra's integrity and work ethics propel him to do what is right, despite the many opinions of others who oppose it. As he and Margaret interact and learn more about each other, their relationship grows, even with their insecurities about themselves. They also learn to trust in God, and know they need to be strong and honest in order to succeed.My favorite part is towards the end, when he holds her face in his hands, and I can't say more without giving it away. ;)There are so many things I like about this series. First, the theme which is manifest in the title, Colors of Faith. When you start reading these books, you will notice the story is preceded by a poem. These are the poems that set the theme and the title of each book. In book two, each chapter starts with a quote about journalism, which is part of the story and the characters, and each quote is very aptly used to the content of its chapter.I also loved the setting of early twentieth century near Chicago (in #1) and San Francisco (#2). There are real issues in the lives of the main characters, social issues that bring to life the setting in a resolute manner. The rights of minorities are at the forefront, especially when in contrast to family expectations and the rules of society, including the power of the rich. Much of the conflict revolves around these issues which is intrinsic to the era, thus making both stories such great historical romances.At the same time, the main characters are beset with problems that transcend geography and time. Issues of faith, divine nature and individual worth, integrity, and accountability, are as much valid today as they were a century ago, and these are lessons that the reader can learn right along with the main characters.It was really fun to see Thomas, Allie and Janey from the first book make an appearance in this story. It brought it all together.Highly recommend.