What Once Was Lost - A Review

About the book:
Publisher - Waterbrook/Multnomah, September 2013

Format - ebook, paper

Author - Kim Vogel Sawyer

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Summary (from Amazon):
A woman meant to serve, a child in the dark, a man standing apart—can these three souls embrace a God with new plans for them?

On a small Kansas farm, Christina Willems lovingly shepherds a group of poor and displaced individuals who count on her leadership and have come to see the Brambleville Asylum for the Poor as their home. But when a fire breaks out in the kitchen leaving the house uninhabitable, she must scramble to find shelter for all in her care, scattering her dear “family.”

With no other options, Christina is forced to approach Levi Jonnson, a reclusive mill owner, to take in a young blind boy named Tommy Kilgore. Levi agrees with reluctance but finds himself surprised by the bond that quickly grows between him and Tommy. As obstacles to repairing the farm pile up against Christina, she begins to question her leadership ability and wonders if she can fulfill the mission to which she's dedicated her life. And when an old adversary challenges Christina, will she find an unlikely ally—or more—in the aloof Levi? Can Levi reconcile with the rejection that led to his hermit-like existence and open his heart and life to something more, especially a relationship with a loving God?

My Thoughts:
 This one captured my attention from the beginning. I loved how Levi encouraged Tommy to do things for himself. Christina's determination to keep the "family" of the poor farm residents together was also sweet. I really loved though, how each of the residents found something else for their situation - a place to live, a job, a family, etc. The romance was almost an after thought.

I'd have to say that the overall theme was of letting go. Letting go of resentment, of what the character thought was best, a general surrender. Anyway, I found myself pleasantly surprised by this book. I really wasn't sure what to expect, but I will definitely be reading more by this author.

I received this book for free from Waterbrook/Multnomah's Blogging for Books Program for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Lauraine Snelling, Tracie Peterson, Robin Lee Hatcher, historical fiction

Rating - 4 stars. A solid 4 star rating.

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