Book Review #13 - Sunrise

Thoughts:
*bounces in, clutching book to chest* GUYS! 

*calms down* So, I'm here to introduce you to one of my favorite authors ever. Yes, you're probably thinking something along the lines of "she's a book lover, so how many favorite authors does she have?" The answer to that: quite a few. But, Grace Livingston Hill actually is near the top of that long list of favorites. 

Sunrise is such a good story! It's theme of trusting God during difficulties was a super helpful reminder for me in the last few years. I picked it up about 3 years ago, right when I first needed that reminder. I just read it once more, without remembering the storyline, and discovered it was exactly the reminder I needed. 

I wouldn't say Sunrise is my favorite of Grace Livingston Hill's books, but it's still such a beautiful story. Anyway, you've heard my ramblings. Now for the rest of the review!

Author: Grace Livingston Hill
Genre: Romance/Historical Fiction/Mystery/Christian Fiction
Series: No
Time Period: Probably 1930s. It does not directly state the time period, but it was written in 1937
Setting: Not directly stated in my memory- a medium sized town somewhere in America

Summary: 

"Jason Whitney was always being accused of things he didn't do. So when the bank is robbed, most people are sure he has been involved. After all, Jason worked at the bank, he had a history of being in trouble, and his notebook was found outside the bank's empty safe. Certain no one will listen to him, Jason flees. But at least two people stand by Jason: his sister and the minister's beautiful daughter. Together they turn to wealthy Rowan Parsons, who agrees to help find Jason and prove his innocence. 

But several months pass with no word from Jason or Rowan. The two women know something has gone terribly wrong. Where could Jason be? Could the town be right - is Jason a criminal? And what has happened to Rowan? Will the women ever see the men they love again...?"

(Summary is from the back of the book)

Main Characters: 

Rose Allison

Joyce Whitney

Writing Style: 

The writing style is enjoyable. It's third person, jumping between many perspectives. There are very long paragraphs of description and internal processing which can bog a reader down- especially if they prefer action. However, for the patient reader, those paragraphs can be quite rewarding. 

The descriptions overflow with beauty and realism. Grace Livingston Hill truly had a gift for describing things in charming, yet simple language. Even if some of the descriptions prove to be longer than the list of books you hope to read, the wording of them is quaint and easy. 

The internal processing shouts to be listened to. It doesn't feel out of place. It's beautiful and relatable.

Character Development: 

So, the character development is a hard question for me to answer. Mainly because I read the book focused on the plot and theme, not character development. *hides* 

However, the characters themselves were amazing. So lively and interesting. Their flaws were visible, their desires tangible, their strengths calling out to you. I loved Joyce's unfailing trust in God and belief in her brother's good character. Rose had such an innocent, tender heart. Jason seemed so hurt and sad that I just wanted to cry with him. It was beautiful. 

Plot Development:

Wow. It's just... wow. There are so many twists and turns in the story. Surprises and characters who you'd never think would become involved. 

The plot starts out with a teaser to the main problem right from the beginning. And then it just goes from there. Problem after problem arises, pouncing on the characters, causing them to have to lean into Christ to get through.

For some readers, the plot may progress to slowly. It does move at a whimsical, slow pace. But in my opinion it is not too sluggish. 

Theme of the Book: 

Believe the best about others, unwavering faith & trust in God, all things work together for the good of those who love Him
Spiritual Content: 

Many mentions of God and church, characters pray to Christ, quite a few Bible verses are quoted, Biblical truths are upheld, characters choose to lean on Christ rather than their own strength  
Warnings: 

Mentions of suicide, mentions of drinking and gambling, mentions of "the wrong kind of girls" 

Age Rating: 

13+ 
Pre Teens:

Young Teens:

Older Teens:

Personal Rating: