Book Review: A Heart's Disguise by Colleen Coble

In case you're new to this blog, I'll let you know first off that Colleen Coble is one of my favorite Christian authors.  The Journey of the Heart series is a re-release of her first books.  It is obvious in the reading that she hadn't yet honed her writing skills, but the basics aspects that make her later books are there.  While the writing isn't up to her current standards, the story is a good one.  Even though it's very short--really just a novella--it held my attention and interest.  The story will be told in multiple parts, and thankfully we won't have to wait long from part to part! 

It's the story of Sarah and Rand, who were engaged to be married before he left to fight in the Civil War.  When it's reported that Rand has died in a prison camp, Sarah is heartbroken.  Added to the burden of her father's poor health and impending death, is the attention of Ben Croftner.  Even though she doesn't really like him, she decides to marry Ben, because he seems to love her, and she needs security and a home.  But Sarah and her family don't know that Rand is not only alive, but he's on his way home to her.  What will happen when Rand comes home and finds Sarah about to be married?  Will he forgive her?  Would she be willing to leave her family to travel away with him after all? 

The questions aren't all answered by the end of this book, and it actually ends rather abruptly.  But it leaves the reader anxious for the next installment.  The characters in this book are a little one-sided, and the language used is sometimes unnatural and awkward.  I did enjoy reading it, though, even if it was just to see how Ms. Coble's writing has developed over the years.  And I for one can't wait to read A Heart's Obsession which is due to be released in early April.  I believe there are six books in this series, and they should all be available by the end of summer.  It's a fast read, and overall very enjoyable.

Happy Reading!

Lyndsie

I was given an advance copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for this review.  All opinions are my own, and a favorable review was not required.