Robin Hardy Reviews

Page Three

Added November 6, 2004

The Latter Annals of Lystra Book 2: Ares of Westford

Author: Robin Hardy
Publisher: Westford Press
Available At: Bookstores Everywhere
Publishing Date: September 2004
Genre: Fiction: Christian/Historical
Format: Trade Paperback
Price: $15.95
ISBN: 0-97458-298-0
Author Email/Website:www.robinhardy.com
Reviewer: Joyce Handzo

Ares of Westford is a timely look at politics, leadership, and the true power behind the throne.

The murder of Surchatain Cedric ended a reign of cruelty, but started a time of uncertainty. Next in line for the throne is Henry, seven-year-old son of Cedric. Until he comes of age, Commander Ares and Counselor Carmine are the acting Co-Regents. However, some carefully hidden pages from Roman's Law are uncovered which changes the line of succession to the throne. Ares has already pledged his oath of loyalty to Henry, but will the newly discovered pages from the Law make his vow one of treason or one of trust?

With its very timely publication, this second book in the "Latter Annals of Lystra" series will remind readers of the One who sets kings on their thrones. As America heads to the polls to vote for President, the political situation in Westford provides some intriguing parallels and some comforting conclusions.

Readers of the series know that Ares, a descendant from the line of Roman, is the true king of Westford. Yet, his fierce and determined loyalty to young Henry, along with a heart-spoken vow, makes any thought of his attaining the throne treasonous. Remarkably, Ares leaves the decision of who sits on the throne to a higher power. In a series of startling discoveries, political power plays, and dangerous divisions, readers will watch as Ares steps out in faith to pursue an inevitable course.

Ares becomes not only a leader to those in Westford, but leads readers on a faith-filled walk. In today's world of political posturing, the message of this book sounds a clear call to trust. As those in the palace and surrounding areas seek to claim power, events unfold that reveal the Hand that has guided mankind since the beginning of time.

In the gentle Robin Hardy style that this reviewer loves, the message of God's ultimate control over the affairs of men is shown to be worthy of our trust.

Returning to Westford will allow readers to visit with those wonderful characters from the first book. Ares, although scarred by a wound on his face, presents the perfect image of Christ. He is obedient, loyal and full of love for his people. Some of the not so savory characters return with plans to hurt, and readers will marvel at the conspiracies that develop.

Ares of Westford leads readers to the Throne of Grace where all can find help in time of need.

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Added July 2, 2004

Sammy Working for a Living

Book 3 of the Sammy series

Author: Robin Hardy
Publisher: Westford Press
Available At: Bookstores Everywhere
Publishing Date: June 2004
Genre: Fiction: Christian
Format: Trade Paperback
Price: $13.45
ISBN: 0-9745829-6-4
Author Email/Website:www.robinhardy.com
Reviewer: Joyce Handzo

Sammy Working for a Living comes with all the benefits fans of Robin Hardy have come to love! Besides a generous portion of humor, romance and suspense, there are author's thought-provoking insights into the genuine outworking of Christianity in today's world.

Sammy Kidman, undercover detective with the Dallas police force, wants a safe, reliable job. With a wife and baby to support, he wants to be around for a long time, and police work could be hazardous to his health. The only problem is matching his skills to the right profession. Sammy's job-hunting provides a lot of funny moments. In fact, the flying rubber chickens on the cover of the book have to do with one of his employment escapades!

Readers will be delighted to see that Sammy's love and attraction for his wife, Marni, is just as strong as in previous books. How wonderful it is to see Christian characters married and satisfied with each other in body, soul and mind. The relationship between Sammy and Marni is a vivid representation of God's abundant blessings upon marriage.

Sammy's job with the police force adds a terrific sense of tension to the story. He undertakes an undercover assignment that requires him to look "above" for help. There was a perfect amount of danger, deceit and darkness to keep readers on the edge of their seats.

However, it's this reviewer's opinion that the heart of Robin Hardy's books is showing readers the heart of God. Throughout the book, the author introduces controversial and contemporary topics such as genuine church leadership, the reality of a satanic supernatural world, and the undeniable Presence of God in the believer's life. All of this is done in the course of the story, yet these subtle insights will give readers food for thought, and hopefully, action.

Sammy Working for a Living is another great writing job by Robin Hardy!

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