Book Review: Where We Belong

 Although I enjoyed this wholesome audio experience, it demonstrated the position on agenda that Andrew Peterson shared in his Adorning the Dark book. As a Christian, I agree with the message this novel presents. Sadly, the author hammers instead of suggests. For example, two phrases occurred ad nauseam (and, yes, I grew nauseated with each additional mention): "God knows the end of our days; no need to fear" and "No trees grow to the sky." I heard the first truism almost twenty times. She even explained the second, in case the reader couldn't grasp the meaning. I don't enjoy criticizing (indeed genuinely like this author's books), but wish the message to creep in unawares through the strength of the story. I'm sure Lynn Austin meant to shore up Christians facing uncertainty. No doubt many of us need such shoring up these days. Her intentions are honorable, but her methods too forceful (a non-believer would toss the story given such overt proselytizing).

Where We Belong emphasizes God's constant care and provision through the unconventional lives of two wealthy sisters who adore travel and wish to fulfill their God-given purpose in life. Flora and Rebecca Hawes travel to the Middle East in search of documents to verify the validity of Scripture. Faced with Darwin's alternative theory of evolution, the sisters fight to reinforce the Bible's authority. Meanwhile, they also shepherd their two young servants. The story jumps back and forth in time to portray how each character encountered and came to revere God. One sister falls in love with an adamant non-believer and his conversion feels too quick and without substance. Again, the story held plenty of action, believable characters, and engaging plot development. Just preachy. I'm not giving up on this author, but bristled at the hammered agenda.