Kathleen Y'Barbo Reviews

Added March 29, 2008

Beloved Castaway

Author: Kathleen Y'Barbo
Publisher: Barbour Books
Available At: Bookstores everywhere
Publishing Date: Available Now
Genre: Romance: Christian/Historical
Format: Trade paper
Price: $9.97
ISBN-13: 978-1-59789-593-4
Author Email/Website: http://www.kathleenybarbo.com/
Reviewer: Joyce Handzo
Rating: 9 Gargoyles

Beloved Castaway is as elegant as it is exciting. Author Kathleen Y'Barbo transports readers to a time when propriety and passion struggled for preeminence, leaving men and women in both doubt and hope. These contrasting elements of a former society provide the framework for this excellently written novel. As the main characters seek peace, a purpose and a place in each other's heart, surface tensions reflect a hidden past that endangers their future.

Isabelle Gayarre's birth trapped her in a life of slavery. Upon learning she is to be sold, she desperately seeks escape aboard Captain Josiah Carter's ship, which is bound for Europe. When her plans were discovered, she casts all her hope on God, savoring His precious promises and salting her trust with her tears. Meanwhile Josiah wrestles with his own problems as he flees a self-righteous father and a financial burden that threatens to sink him. As this man and woman yearn for their individual freedoms, they are drawn to each other in an impossible dream of love.

This sweetly romantic story was truly a pleasure to read. The historical setting captured the emotions of Josiah and Isabelle, as they resigned themselves to separate paths because of Isabelle's status as a slave. The author creatively contrasted the hypocritical pillars of society who stressed proper etiquette but accepted the concept of slavery.

Life on the high seas was an exciting adventure, as Josiah's old ship met with a variety of dangers. In a way, the story is slightly reminiscent of the Biblical book of Jonah. Both Isabelle and Josiah sought escape on board a ship, shunning their past and hoping to outrun their pursuers. Yet, God shows Himself to be both merciful and just, as He takes this man and woman on a spiritual journey that leaves them no place to hide. The surprising conclusion will make readers gasp in wonder and delight, as the Beloved Castaway finds a permanent home in their hearts.

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This page was last updated on March 29, 2008

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