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Michael W Henry

Teoksen Two Rivers tekijä

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Two Rivers (2020) 2 kappaletta

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If I had to choose only one word to describe Michael Henry’s “Two Rivers”, it would be intriguing. It is a story unlike any I’ve read, and one that will remain in my thoughts for a long time to come. What sets it apart in my mind is the unique combination of elements; it is a Western, a survival story, an Oregon Trail missionary journey, and a spiritual warfare novel. At times it takes on aspects of the supernatural, and there is an aura of suspense as well. Quite unusual for a work of Christian historical fiction, yet the author weaves it all together excellently. The title, too, shows forethought; at first blush, it seems to refer simply to one of the main characters, yet I surmise that it also symbolizes divergence from the mainstream course and, naturally, good vs. evil.

Set in 1840, “Two Rivers” demonstrates the prejudices of the time period. From Violet’s aversion to a life in the wilderness to the manner in which the Methodist Episcopal ministers in the missionary band avoid their fellow Negro pastors to the prevailing view of the Native Americans as ignorant heathens, the behavior of those who should know better and be more loving is made apparent. However, this serves to highlight the true light of Christ while acknowledging the uncomfortable truth about racism, which sadly still exists today. The fact that Henry took the time to include this rather than whitewashing the novel and portraying all of the missionaries as angels of mercy enhances my respect for and appreciation of this book. Part of a conversation between Gloria and Pastor Allen Hartman, both part of the missionary group to take the Gospel to Indians in the far-off Oregon Territory, indicates their awareness of the Native American culture. Gloria remarks: “We travel with a wagonload of material possessions, and they have just the essentials. We live such a complicated life. I can’t see them as savages anymore.” Allen follows this by saying: “How can we expect them to understand what our culture has developed over centuries? We have to walk in their shoes, not make them walk in our ours. The commissioning makes sense to me now.”

Without a doubt, the spiritual warfare is what sets this book apart. Henry skillfully employs foreshadowing to alert readers to impending conflict. There are just enough chapters focused on the antipodal Arapaho men, one a malicious witch doctor and the other a medicine man, to build tension. As the missionary group and the Native Americans come closer to converging, the suspense likewise crescendos to a battle for survival. The way in which Christianity and Native American religion meet each other in this book is interesting and, again, distinguishes this from any number of other novels with similar settings or themes. A timely reminder of the apostle Paul’s words in Ephesians 6:12: “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Let’s remember to put on the armor of God daily as we follow His marching orders!

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
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Stardust_Fiddle | 1 muu arvostelu | Aug 20, 2020 |
This book is one I found very intriguing. I liked how the author chose to talk about spiritual warfare in the setting of the 1840s. The story is loosely a western type book but oh my does it dig deep into demons, witchcraft and other subjects that are uncomfortable for some. I liked how the story follows Allen on a missionary trip where unexpected things are bound to happen.
It is quite clear that Allen knows God has called him to this mission and his determination is very heartfelt. I loved how obedient he is to the Holy Spirit as his travels take him among the Native Americans . Being part Comanche I was very interested in how the author would portray Native Americans and how he would use Allen to minister to them. I liked the biblical stories the author uses as he shared Allen’s travel . Abraham and Sarah lived in tents and traveled a great distance much like the Native Americans do in this story.
The author does an excellent job of showing Allen going to live with Two Rivers and learning about their culture. It is a very impressive depiction of the Native American life. Allen faces danger yet his steadfast faith will see him through . I loved how the tribe shared stories with Allen and allowed him to share Jesus with them. I absolutely loved the book and didn’t want it to end. There are nuggets of wisdom in this story that I found to be very well written. Can we be as faithful as Allen and witness to others? What can we learn from other cultures? Obedience, faith, trust and God’s love is felt as Allen encounters evil trying to kill him. The ending is so powerful I wanted to scream with joy. I am hoping the author is writing another book because I can’t wait to see what the Lord has laid on his heart through a story.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
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Harley0326 | 1 muu arvostelu | Aug 17, 2020 |

Tilastot

Teokset
1
Jäseniä
2
Suosituimmuussija
#2,183,609
Arvio (tähdet)
5.0
Kirja-arvosteluja
2
ISBN:t
1