Historical Fiction Book Review: A Chance at Forever

Publisher's Description

"In early 1900s Kansas, Mercy McClain, determined to protect Teaville's children from the bullying she experienced as a child, finds fulfillment working at the local orphanage and serving on the school board. When Aaron Firebrook, the classmate who bothered her more than any other, petitions the board for a teaching position, she's dead set against him getting the job.

Aaron knows he deserves every bit of Mercy's mistrust, but he's returned to his hometown a changed man and is seeking to earn forgiveness of those he wronged. He doesn't expect Mercy to like him, but surely he can prove he now has the best interests of the children at heart.

Will resentment and old wounds hold them back, or can Mercy and Aaron put the past behind them in time to face the unexpected threats to everything they're working for?"

My Review

A Chance at Forever is the third book in the Teaville Moral Society series by Melissa Jagears. Though it contains several characters who were introduced in the previous two novels in the series, A Chance at Forever tells its own unique story. Because it is so well-written and engaging, it can easily be read as a stand-alone novel. I thoroughly enjoyed reading A Chance at Forever, and I sincerely look forward to reading other novels written by the talented Ms. Jagears.
 

I adore historical fiction, and A Chance at Forever exceeded my expectations. I found this novel to be utterly compelling and inspiring. The characters were vulnerable and complex, possessing a thoughtful believability that made them truly relatable and unforgettable. Their struggles, insecurities, fears, and beliefs were authentic and moving. As I read, I developed a deep, emotional connection to the characters and their desperate search for truth, grace, forgiveness, and compassion despite the heartaches and trials that they endured. 

A Chance at Forever is a story of hope, second chances, and new beginnings. The threads of redemption and restoration that are woven throughout this novel have stitched a lasting seam in my thoughts and on my heart. From the first page to the last, this novel was relevant, tender, emotionally stirring, and ultimately uplifting. I recommend it wholeheartedly. 

My Reflection

Forgiveness and reconciliation are powerful themes within this novel. Yet, this book does not diminish the frustrations and uncertainties the characters must endure as they struggle to heal, recover, forgive, and restore. The characters wrestle with their assumptions and their choices. They face consequences from their decisions and actions. As they persevere through set-backs, they become more tender-hearted, more compassionate, and more gracious towards themselves and others. Their faith grows as they learn to trust that their uncertain future is held securely in the hands of a loving, merciful God.
 

The historical realities and situations presented in this book reflect meaningfully upon the fact that God is the ultimate restorer who can fashion beautiful things out of the broken and damaged moments of our lives. With unconditional love and infinite grace, he softens and heals the painful memories, redeeming them and remaking them into moments that yield purpose and value. I found it very profound and thought-provoking to journey with the characters in this novel as they found the healing, forgiveness, and restoration for which their hearts yearned. 

About the Author

"Much to her introverted self's delight, ACFW Award winner and double INSPY finalist Melissa Jagears hardly needs to leave her home to be a homeschooling mother and novelist. She lives in Kansas with her husband and three children and can be found online at www.melissajagears.com, Facebook, Pinterest, and Goodreads." Biography from Melissa Jagears author page on Amazon.com.

Click here to purchase a copy of this novel for yourself. 

*I was given a copy of this novel from the publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written contains opinions that are entirely my own.