My Review of Surrender the Heart

Here's a description of the book from Barbour Publishing: "Relive the rich history of the War of 1812 through the eyes of Marianne Denton and Noah Brenin, who both long to please their families but neither one wishes to marry the other. Noah is determined to get his cargo to England before war breaks out, and Marianne is equally determined to have a wedding so that her inheritance can be unlocked and her destitute family saved. When their stubborn games get them captured by a British warship, can they escape and bring liberty to their country—and growing love?"

My Rating: Summer

My Review:

Ever since reading the Legacy of the King's Pirates series, I have been enthralled with MaryLu Tyndall's books. I anticipate each new one because I know that I am guaranteed a thrilling and inspiring story! Surrender the Heart more than lived up to my expectations.

What was rather different and wonderful about this book was the heroine. I found myself able to relate to her in her self-consciousness about her looks and her feelings about being "ordinary." Tyndall's dedication at the beginning of the book is both moving and motivating: "To everyone who has ever felt ordinary."

Marianne and Noah's journey is powerful, and I loved seeing the growth in their relationships with each other and with God. All of the characters were so real, and it was a humbling experience to see in part how the War 0f 1812 affected both the British and the Americans. Neither side was exempt from the hurt and sorrow that affects all of mankind.

And oh! the romance of this story was beautiful! I was touched by the love that came slowly and unexpectedly between the two main characters at first, until it finally shone forth in utter adoration and devotion. There are certainly many moments in this book that set the heart to fluttering!

Ultimately, the main message of the story is a grand one. The connections to Esther's story from the Bible are wonderful, and as the story progressed I felt encouraged to trust in God and in the plans He has for each of our lives. I loved the depth and the clarity of the lessons Marianne and Noah learned, made all the more vivid through Tyndall's excellent storytelling.

Surrender the Heart captivated me and reminded me of my need to surrender to God's will and let Him work through me to do extraordinary things for His glory. I look forward to reading the rest of the "Surrender to Destiny" series!

*With thanks to the author for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.*