The Adventure of a Lifetime for Two Indomitable Socialite Sisters In the city of Chicago in 1892, the rules for Victorian women are strict, their roles limited. But sisters Rebecca and Flora Hawes are not typical Victorian ladies. Their love of adventure and their desire to use their God-given talents has brought them to the Sinai Desert–and into a sandstorm. Accompanied by Soren Petersen, their …
Accompanied by Soren Petersen, their somber young butler, and Kate Rafferty, a street urchin who is learning to be their ladies’ maid, the two women are on a quest to find an important biblical manuscript. As the journey becomes more dangerous and uncertain, the four travelers sift through memories of their past, recalling the events that shaped them and the circumstances that brought them to this time and place.
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Follow two sisters from the great Chicago fire to the Israeli dessert. This is an unusual story.
Anything and everything by Lynn Austin is excellent!
Where We Belong by Lynn Austen is a clean Christian historical fiction set in Chicago in the mid-to-late 1800s.
This book follows the story of two remarkable women who use their privileges to help other instead of just themselves. They travel the world, fall in love, and help transform their community, especially after the Chicago fire.
This story was so interesting! It was a little slow, but the details in the story and the lives of the two sisters were fascinating. It followed the lives of the sisters for decades, showing their personal growth and experiences and the impact they had on the community. There was a little bit of romance, but it was more of a side plot in the story of the women’s lives. The story and the characters had depth, and there were many words of wisdom interspersed into it about God and the Bible.
Part of the book takes place in Chicago and part of it in the Middle East during the women’s travels. One of the sisters had a passion for archeology, and they spent weeks traipsing through the desert in search of ancient Bible manuscripts and having memorable adventures. Some of those adventures were the most fun parts of the story.
This was a very well-written book, and I would definitely recommend it to others.
I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher. Everything I wrote is my honest, personal opinion, and I wasn’t compensated for sharing it.
The gorgeous cover of this book caught my eye the first time I saw it advertised and thought it would make a great addition to the “Around The World In 80 Books” reading challenge I’m doing this year. At first, I thought I would place it under Egypt for the reading challenge, after all, it has a beautiful picture of the pyramids on it! But after reading “Where We Belong,” I realize it could fall under several categories – Paris, France; Cairo, Egypt; Chicago… This was truly a book about adventure, history and what it means to be called by God.
The first thing I want to point out is that the book jumps around a lot to different parts of the sisters lives and even point of view, as the story progresses. For example, Chapter One starts with Rebecca and Flora in their forties crossing the Sinai Desert to Saint Catherine’s Church. At the beginning, the story is narrated by Rebecca, as you can see by the “Part One – Rebecca,” heading. The following chapters jump back to “35 years ago,” or, “15 years ago” to give a backstory of how the sisters grew up in Chicago, made their first trip abroad, etc. At the end of Part One, you go into Part Two, which is told by Flora, and towards the end of the book Part Three is from Peterson’s point of view (he was their young butler) and Part Four is Kate’s story (their ladies maid.) At first, you may think that’s a lot of jumping around, but don’t let that you scare you away from the book. Once you take the first jump back, the author wrote the story chronologically, so it’s basically like reading the sisters whole life story. (And of course, the life of two servants.)
The second thing I would like to gush over was the amount of history woven into this story. Not only were Rebecca and Flora modeled after real sisters who discovered an ancient manuscript in Saint Catherine’s in Sinai, the author incorporated how Sunday Schools got started and then the frightening events of the Chicago Fire. Flora’s husband, originally from England, was involved (fictionaly, of course) with the man who invented Sunday School and started teaching kids how to read, write and math on Sunday’s, with a Bible story always a part of the weekly lesson. In Chicago, Flora funds several Sunday School ventures and even teaches in them. As you can tell, I just loved how the author snuck this neat bit of religious history into Rebecca’s and Flora’s story. Lastly, since the sister’s were from Chicago, they lived through the Chicago Fire. All I can say about that part is “Wow!” For the first time, I truly understand how devastating the fire was and how it affected so many.
Thirdly, there was such a spiritual aspect to this book. It wasn’t preachy, but it had a clear presentation of the Gospel and what it means to have something that “God wants you to do.” Since the book went over almost a whole lifetime, you watched the sisters grow and accomplish certain “callings” in their lives, and how they transitioned from one to the other while listening for the voice of the Lord. Though it was easy to understand and grasp, it was a theme that could be felt very deeply.
Conclusion: Words like “loved” and “excellent” or “amazing” don’t even come close to describing “Where We Belong”! It was such a great book! This is definitely a book that I would recommend and though you just read why, I’ll a few minor details here. This is one of those stories that wasn’t heavy on romance. Though people did get married and fall in love, it wasn’t the central theme of the story. If you’re looking for, or, enjoy books without the love story being #1, you’d love this book. Another thing is the writing style, it reminded me at times of the way that Michael Phillips writes – a little more classic. Not hard to understand or boring, ‘cause let me tell you, these characters are, well, characters! Give it a try and I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I did!
Another wonderful, amazing book by Lynn Austin. Full of God’s love, hope and forgiveness.
What an exceptional book! I was gifted this book back when we lost a family member in the Las Vegas shooting. I have just had the time to read it. I’m so impressed with the characters and storylines that I strongly recommend this book. Lynn Austin has a gift, one that God blessed her with and one that she uses to show God’s love, mercy and grace for each of us. The adventures were thrilling and there were many parts that caused some tears. A great book!
It was like reading a long drawn out biography, not an interesting fiction. Well written, interesting topic. Just felt like a biography, not an escape to another world.
Very interesting movement ,you want to know why!
I just cannot write this review. Sorry. Can’t do it. When I first started actually reading this book my Kindle told me that it would take about 7 hours to finish. Lovely, right? I mean here it was Monday evening and I was getting ready to start my week at The Day Job (I work Tuesday through Saturday). Reading time through the week is hard to come by and tends to happen in spurts and fits. Seven hours would take me all week and into my weekend. No way Jose. And then I started reading it and was like, whoa Nellie, to have that kind of money. I mean life got messy, or hard, or stressful and immediately Rebecca’s response was ‘let’s travel abroad and figure out what God wants us to do next’. Seriously?!? And then they would be abroad, usually in the Middle East, and they would just randomly decide to extend their trip or add destinations to their trip, or just next thing you know they would be gone months. Months! For the love of all the tomatoes I need their life! Oh the life paths I could figure out by traveling ‘abroad’.
All that being said I was surprised to learn that this book was based on real people. Sorta. In a way. I mean real sisters (twins) that lived in Scotland (not Chicago) made these discoveries. They traveled to the Middle East and made ancient discoveries. I mean I thought that was just part of the story to legitimize their travels. Nope, real deal. I really can’t write this review. I mean ultimately, I loved this book. I have no idea why and can’t begin to articulate and find words to tell you about it. The situations they find themselves in, while real, sometimes scatter into the ‘wait, what?’ moments. The mindset that life decisions are made abroad, yeah well still can’t wrap my ‘I can’t afford to drive a state away and that’s like an hours drive’ mind. However, I was drawn into their lives, their adventures and their story.
The faith was consistent throughout the story and so well woven into the fiber of the characters that I can’t picture reading this book without it. Rebecca and Flora (while over the top in their wealth) were so well developed and I adored them. Even Kate and Soren were flesh and blood real for me. This book, with all these characters I can’t begin to relate too, was so very well written with amazing characters and even over-the-top believability. Seven hours felt like nothing by the time I finished this book, even during the work week. I was entertained and absorbed sitting in the car before work, ignoring friends at lunch, and staying up entirely too late at night because I loved this book. I can’t write this review. I can’t find the right words. What I can do is tell you that I loved this book.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by NetGalley. I was not compensated for this review and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.
Where We Belong is dual timeline story about the lives of sisters Rebecca and Flora Hawes. Despite what the book’s synopsis has you believe, there is a lot more to the story than one trip to the Sinai. Born in the mid-1800’s during a time when women’s roles in the family and in society were very strict and limited, the Hawes sisters had a rather unusual upbringing. It was exciting to read about all of the ways that Rebecca and Flora grew during their teen and young adult years. As they aged, the sisters learned about the world around them and how they fit into it. With an emphasis in trusting the Lord’s timing and His plan for our lives, this is a story that is universally applicable to all of us!
I love her she is one of my favorite authors
All of Her books are well esearched, historical and full od adventurous characters.
True to Lynn Austin form, this is a very well written, fast moving, exciting, loveable and relatable book. The 2 sister’s story is set up in they style normal for Ms. Austin, switching between past and present, focusing on mainly 1 character’s POV at a time. The way this is done makes understanding backstory much more pleasant, and really gives you a feel for each of the main characters. This being Christian fiction, I do love how the message of the gospel and how different bible stories become relatable to both the characters and to the reader. The author does not shy away from her beliefs, and does not water them down as some other Christian fiction does tend to. At the same time, it’s not written in a manner that is overly preachy.
One thing I really enjoy about this book (and most of Lynn Austin’s work) is her focus and creation of strong heroines. She is not afraid to let them shine, as well as fail when need be. They are written true to their time, but at the same time – can be people you know and aspire to be in this day and age as well. Both Rebecca and Flora are both strong in their own ways – and a want to be taken seriously (mostly by men and authority figures) in a way that is sadly still applicable today. The bond between the sisters, though having differences of opinions and tempers is unshakeable – even able to stand the friction of romantic partners. Their relationship was written in a believable way, allowing differences of temper, opinion and the tendency for the oldest sibling to be the bossiest.
To keep from spoilers I will say I always enjoy the romantic tension written into Ms. Austin’s stories, and this was no different. The choice of choosing from your heart, or choosing from your head is a timeless one. I appreciated the different portrayals of love this story had to offer, and the decision to go with what society offered, versus something more in line with God’s plan for your life – was well displayed and refreshing.
As for Kate and Soren, they’re stories were enjoyable, but I appreciated even more their character development and traits. Soren had the loyalty of Flora and her tender heart. Kate on the other hand had Rebecca’s stubborn independence and need to be able to be in charge of her own life/self. I found their stories just as interesting as the main line.
Beyond having the ability to move me to laughter, tears and spiritual revelations, another thing I enjoy about Lynn Austin’s writing – is I always get to learn a little something about history/setting. I had recently read a nonfiction work about her own pilgrimage to the Holy Land – and now greatly enjoyed seeing it fleshed out in the backdrop of the 1890’s. I also was not aware of the breadth of devastation the Chicago Fire had caused. In the end Ms. Austin shows the overlying picture of how even in the midst of what can seem like a doomed season – God’s hand is still upon us, and we still have lessons to learn from Him.
Another 5/5 for me, and a new favorite added to my shelf.
Lynn Austin crafts another wonderful historical fiction novel and at the same time delivers valuable lessons. Her story is well researched and adventurous as she follows two women from late 1800’s Chicago all the way to the Sinai Desert. The tale of these two sisters, who didn’t follow society’s mold, is engaging with characters which will touch a reader’s heart. These two women weren’t afraid to chase their dreams and search for their purpose. Each knew that she was distinct with different interests and abilities, but that skills could be learned and dreams achieved. Austin also includes the way in which their constant faith shaped their lives. Where We Belong is a perfect read for young women as well, which might make for good conversations. Lynn Austin never disappoints because she is able to weave an interesting story and yet leave the reader learning so much. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
Where We Belong by Lynn Austin
Lynn Austin’s story of two sisters (based on fact) is written so beautifully, weaving in so many areas of thought to ponder, bringing inspiration, laughter and tears, that it is easily one I can recommend to anyone. All the elements are there: love, mystery, adventure, social issues, drama, humor, inspiration, world travel, history, relationships, and a satisfying ending. What’s not to love?
This book was not only a ‘good read’ or interesting story for me, it was personally life-changing. I’ve been seeking ‘where I belong’ even late in my life. Now I have that extra push and inspiration I needed to know it’s never too late to try something new, to step out knowing “God knows when the end of our days will be. We have nothing to fear.”
Lynn’s exquisitely written story of these remarkable, true-life sisters has encouraged me to do things I’ve wanted to do before, but was too afraid to try, to reach out more in love to the helpless, and to fulfill my own destiny. These young women aspired to and achieved amazing things in a time where most women weren’t encouraged to be educated, much less explore and travel the world!
Besides just thoroughly enjoying this fascinating story, reading this book has helped me ‘discover another piece of the puzzle of my life and have a renewed sense of purpose,’ just like the sisters did. I’ve ‘learned about myself and what God wants for me.’
Even if you already know ‘where you belong,’ you’ll love this book!
(I was given a copy of this book by the publisher to review.)
Kept me reading.
Enjoyed traveling with Becky and Flora!