Leslie Gould

A Brighter Dawn is an Amish/Mennonite dual timeline novel from Leslie Gould. Set in modern-day America and WWII-era Germany, the book explores both white supremacy and the Nazi eugenics experiments. It was interesting to read about Mennonite communities in the present and in the past and their struggles with keeping separate from the “world”. As in most spiritual communities some people better adhere to their principals than others. Main character Ivy Zimmerman has a lot to deal with — guilt over her parents’ deaths in a car accident, her struggles with faith, and the newfound family she knew little about. Add to that a mystery surrounding her great-aunt Clare, and you have a complex, yet cohesive story to fall into. I enjoyed the book overall, though I did find the historical thread more compelling. The scientific research, the growing anti-semitism, and the ambivalence of those of faith were all too relevant for the modern reader. I had trouble connecting with the younger characters in the present-day story — probably due to my own advanced years. 😉 I do think that older teens and young adults would like this book. It certainly is a recommended read.

Recommended.

Audience: older teens and adults.

(I purchased this book from Amazon. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)… (més)

Wow! This is an exceptional book! It's modern but filled with glimpses of the past. It's a story of friendship, forgiveness, and courage.

Brenna is very relatable! She's been raised to help others, and she struggles with that. She also has anxiety and sees a therapist. Rylan is a difficult guy to like. He's got some scars, both physical and psychological. Once his history is explained, he becomes more likable.

I loved the parts of the book that are Rosene's stories! She helps Brenna by telling her about her relatives. I especially enjoyed all of the history in the book. Leslie Gould does such a terrific job with making the past come alive. I never knew about the conscientious objectors being assigned to state medical hospitals. And that their photographs led to reform in mental hospitals.

This is a definite must-read! I would recommend also reading "A Brighter Dawn," the first book in this series. It has some of the same characters and is excellent!

I was provided a copy of the book from Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.… (més)

Wow! I'd give this book more than five stars! It's simply wonderful! Intricately researched and full of history. The story is very unique. The characters are wonderful and relatable. There are themes of love, loss, and faith. I felt connected to all of the characters and was happy to invest time in them and their lives. My favorite quote is: " Remember, the world is not going to remind you that you are a child of God. The world will criticize, point out your flaws, and do all it can to discourage you and make you question God's love for you." The author eloquently portrays the grace and love of God throughout this book! This is a thought provoking book; it really made me think about my faith and how I portray that faith to others. I'm so glad I had the privilege to read it!
I received a copy courtesy of Bethany House through Interviews and Reviews for my honest opinion. All thoughts and opinions are my own.… (més)