Review: Sequel lives up to expectations
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 01 8, 2011
In All Things is the sequel to Shawna Williams' debut novel No Other, a touching and heart felt story of God's faithfulness amidst the seemingly impossible circumstances surrounding a young couple who find themselves in love during the post World War Two era. I loved No Other and was quite honestly skeptical about what a sequel might hold. When I first started to read In All Things, I almost didn't want to continue. I was satisfied with the `happily ever after' of the first book, and I wanted it to stay that way. But Williams skillfully drew me in, as the next phase of Jakob's and Meri's life together unfolded. Let me tell you, there were plenty of surprises, including some heart wrenching moments and a few brutally honest scenes that kept me turning the pages once I quieted the voice inside that wanted the original fairy tale to continue. I'm glad I did. In the end, book number two is even more satisfying than book one, if that were possible. This book is full of depth in both the complexity of the plot and the realistic portrayal of the characters. Williams is also able to weave a strong message of God's continuing faithfulness throughout, without making the reader feel as if they have been hammered over the head. It's one of those reads that leaves you thinking long afterwards, not able to dismiss the insights you've gained quite as easily as would be expected. Bravo to Shawna Williams and high praise for In All Things. This book proves that Shawna Williams is an author of substance and I look forward to reading what else she has to offer in the future.