The Ancient Words Series consists of two books: Where Can I flee (released August 13, 2014) and In The Shadow Of They Wings (December 8, 2015). Both books were independently published. To purchase your copy of Where Can I flee, click here. To purchase your copy of In The Shadow Of Thy Wings, click here.
Book Information:
Where Can I Flee
War is on the horizon during the spring of 1861. It will be an event that will change the lives of everyone in its path. The Harper family included.
Frank Harper is a young man full of dreams and ambitions. Even when the country is split and war breaks out, Frank will do whatever is necessary to see his dreams come true, even when that means putting on a uniform and leaving home.
For the first time, Claire Harper is forced to consider the reasons behind such a conflict. Should slavery be abolished? Which side should she be on, and what does God have to say about this? Claire is torn between her own opinions and those of her family. The struggle within her only increases when she repeatedly runs into a kind and handsome Union soldier. She longs to see her brother turn to Christ before it is too late. Desperate to reach her brother with the gospel, Claire pens a series of inspiring letters. Will she be able to handle all the obstacles of war and continue to be a witness to those around her?
How long can Claire last when her heart is torn in half and she is burdened for her brother’s soul? How long can Frank resist his sister’s urgent pleas or the gentle tugging from within? Can a man outrun a holy God?
In the Shadow of Thy Wings
Devastation sweeps across the land, and the families of Maple Grove cannot escape when war arrives at their front doors. After her father entrusts her with a new and dangerous task, Sally Chandler must find the courage to obey despite her fear. Meanwhile, her best friend, Claire Harper, is determined to serve others, even if it means putting herself in danger. But with a certain handsome Union soldier stationed nearby, Claire finds her heart in danger of falling for the enemy. Their differing loyalties create complications that neither could expect; her twin brother fighting for the Confederacy is only one of them. Frank Harper left home with one goal in mind – to become a prosperous plantation owner. Two years later, not only is he further from his goal, but he’s beginning to question his own desires–something that becomes more complicated when his heart becomes involved. The families of Maple Grove must learn how to survive the uncertainty of war and a country split in two. While the war in the nation rages on, the battle within grows stronger. Will they learn that the only safe place to hide is in the shadow of Thy Wings?
My Two Cents:
These two books really bring to light the struggles and hardships brought on by the Civil War. They also show hope, love, courage, and forgiveness. I loved how the Gospel was weaved throughout the story.
The Harper family is a close knit family and this shines throughout the books – especially in Where Can I Flee. The letters between brother and sister (twins) are both heartwarming and heart-wrenching.
I have to admit that the beginning of the first book (Where Can I flee) was slow and it took me several chapters to get into it. However, once I did, I really enjoyed the writing. Heath had a well developed story-line. Her characters had depth and I found myself able to connect with them. I wanted to see what would happen next. I do wish is that the verbiage would have been more consistent and true to the time period. This would give the story more authenticity. For example, most of the time Claire speaks like someone from the upper class though her family are poor farmers. Once in a while there is a “y’all” thrown in yet other times she will say “you”. The shop keeper often times spoke like someone who was poor. There are a few other parts of the story I wish had more clarity and were more resolved.
Overall, I give these two book 4 out of 5 stars. If you like historical fiction, these are two books you would definitely enjoy!
Thank you to Celebrate Lit and A.M. Heath for an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
Author Information:
Being raise in a small Tennessee town, A.M. Heath grew up with a love for southern history and nostalgia. She lives with her husband and four children in Southern Tennessee where they embrace the small town lifestyle.
Giveaway Information:
anyone that she felt hopeless… or could she?
