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The Pilgrim Travels on: Literary References to The Pilgrim’s Progress
Few works of literature have had the cultural reach of John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress. That’s pretty amazing—who would have thought an adventure story that pauses every few pages for long discussions of Christian theology would have such a grip on the Western world’s imagination? Clearly Bunyan tapped something deep in the human spirit. The idiom of life’s journey, with all the struggles and respites along the way, is common to all mankind. One doesn’t even have to be a Christian to experience them. When someone speaks of his “Slough of Despond” or mentions her “Celestial City,” he or she is hearkening back to one of the seminal quest stories…
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The Memory House by Rachel Hauck
The Memory House by Rachel Hauck is the most delightful dual timeline novel set in 1953 and present day. Rachel Hauck has done it again – and created a wonderful novel that will ignite the reader’s heart and soul. The characters are warm and welcoming and realistic with their fears and failures. They are easy to identify with. Prayer is important. “He suspected Mom’s prayers had a hand in this.” Prayer is powerful and how wonderful to think that our prayers can influence lives for the better. Sometimes we have a day that defines us. There is a ‘then’ and a ‘now’. This is the case for the two lead females.…
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Return To Maplewood by Elizabeth Bromke
Return To Maplewood by Elizabeth Bromke is a delightful contemporary novel that continues the story of the Maplewood sisters, this time focusing on Anna. Past hurts intrude on the present. A partying lifestyle and outlook are designed to protect hearts – but it is an empty and potentially dangerous way of life. Turning ones back on the party scene is not always a popular decision but it will bring freedom. There is the theme of loss. We can never replace those who have gone before but life must continue, especially when children depend on you. A delightful four year old charms not only the characters but the reader too. Home is…
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Maplewood In Love by Elizabeth Bromke
Maplewood In Love by Elizabeth Bromke is a contemporary novella that continues the story begun in Christmas On Maplewood Mountain. I am really enjoying this series with warm and wonderful characters. There is an air of hospitality which radiates from the book to include the reader. Vivid descriptions enable the reader to ‘experience’ Christmas and all the activities. It is beautiful to witness a budding romance. The family atmosphere covers the novella as family is important. A wonderful series and I am on to the next book now. JULIA WILSON
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Christmas On Maplewood Mountain by Elizabeth Bromke
Charming Christmas On Maplewood Mountain by Elizabeth Bromke is a charming contemporary romance that will warm the reader’s heart. December and snow are always a winning combination that would not be complete without the addition of hot chocolate. This novel is a real assault on the senses. Elizabeth Bromke has perfectly captured the atmosphere in an inn at Christmas. The reader experiences the novel due to comprehensive descriptions. The novel has the theme of work colleagues bonding over a weekend. The activities such as tree dressing really appeal to the reader. The landscape is fresh and clean in contrast to the city where the firm is based. A sisterly relationship…
