Unending Devotion...a book review

I just finished reading Unending Devotion by Jody Hedlund last night and wanted to share my review.  *I received this book free from Bethany House publishers to do an unbiased book review.*  Here is the book trailer...it'll give you a short summary of the basic plot:



I love the authentic pictures that are used in this trailer, because it would've been hard for me to envision the lumber camps as I have never been to one.  Use that photo as a guide to take you into the dark world of the late 19th century lumber industry...a world filled with poor working conditions, men who are rough around the edges, and women forced into prostitution to fill the "needs" of the workers.  Many turned a blind eye to the evil around them, rationalizing it by saying that the country needed lumber to build with, so the men had to be kept happy so they could do the harsh labor.  Lily Young, however, doesn't turn a blind eye.  She has a mission to rescue her sister from one of the houses of ill repute...and other desperate women she meets along the way.  She is fearless and consistently puts herself in harm's way, standing up to those who are filled with greed and evil.  When she meets Connell McCormick she sees a man who is honorable, yet doesn't want to take a stand against what is wrong.  Their journey is filled with suspense, love, and a challenge to do what's right no matter the cost.

When I read a Jody Hedlund book, I know I'm going to take a step into a moment in history.  This moment is usually known for its challenges, injustices, and the perseverance of its characters.  Although the characters are fictional, they are often based on real people.  That's one thing that makes her novels so interesting and enjoyable.  They feel very authentic.  This book is no exception.  There were a few moments that Lily's fearlessness seemed unimaginable to me..yet I know from history that there are those who will risk their lives for others without fear.  I, of course, also liked the growing romance between Lily and Connell.  It wasn't without challenges in itself and I felt that it was realistic.  Even though Lily was very brave and selfless, she had to grow and learn as well.  Hedlund does a great job describing the evils of the lumber camps and the darkness taking place there, yet doesn't go so deep in the description that I felt overwhelmed by it.  The theme of overcoming evil and adversity that I've seen in each of her novels is inspiring.  As one who is concerned with the overwhelming problem of child exploitation that we have in this world, I thought Hedlund's book related to that and was an encouragement to me to think of how one person really can make a difference in the lives of those who are forced into a life of horror.  I would definitely recommend this book! 

I intereviewed Jody not too long ago on my blog.  Here is the link.  She includes a great recipe! 
Happy reading!
~Stacey