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Zweden, 1897. Na de dood van hun ouders besluiten drie zussen – Elin, Kirsten en Sofia – te emigreren naar Amerika: een lange, zware reis die hun leven voorgoed verandert. Wanneer zullen ze werkelijk weer thuis zijn?
Elin, de oudste, voelt de verantwoordelijkheid voor haar zussen als een last op haar schouders drukken. Niemand weet dat haar oom haar heeft misbruikt. Wanneer hij zijn oog op Sofia laat vallen, weet Elin dat het tijd is voor drastische maatregelen en ze vertrekt met haar zussen naar Amerika. Daar aangekomen blijkt dat hun reis nog maar net begonnen is… De drie zussen hebben elk hun eigen geheimen, hun eigen droom. Ieder van hen zal ook een moeilijke reis naar binnen moeten maken, als ze haar bestemming wil vinden.
Elin, de oudste, voelt de verantwoordelijkheid voor haar zussen als een last op haar schouders drukken. Niemand weet dat haar oom haar heeft misbruikt. Wanneer hij zijn oog op Sofia laat vallen, weet Elin dat het tijd is voor drastische maatregelen en ze vertrekt met haar zussen naar Amerika. Daar aangekomen blijkt dat hun reis nog maar net begonnen is… De drie zussen hebben elk hun eigen geheimen, hun eigen droom. Ieder van hen zal ook een moeilijke reis naar binnen moeten maken, als ze haar bestemming wil vinden.
464 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2008
693 people are currently reading
4149 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Austin
69 books5,578 followersFor many years, Lynn Austin nurtured a desire to write but frequent travels and the demands of her growing family postponed her career. When her husband's work took Lynn to Bogota, Colombia, for two years, she used the B.A. she'd earned at Southern Connecticut State University to become a teacher. After returning to the U.S., the Austins moved to Anderson, Indiana, Thunder Bay, Ontario, and later to Winnipeg, Manitoba.
It was during the long Canadian winters at home with her children that Lynn made progress on her dream to write, carving out a few hours of writing time each day while her children napped. Lynn credits her early experience of learning to write amid the chaos of family life for her ability to be a productive writer while making sure her family remains her top priority.
Extended family is also very important to Austin, and it was a lively discussion between Lynn, her mother, grandmother (age 98), and daughter concerning the change in women's roles through the generations that sparked the inspiration for her novel Eve's Daughters.
Along with reading, two of Lynn's lifelong passions are history and archaeology. While researching her Biblical fiction series, Chronicles of the Kings, these two interests led her to pursue graduate studies in Biblical Backgrounds and Archaeology through Southwestern Theological Seminary. She and her son traveled to Israel during the summer of 1989 to take part in an archaeological dig at the ancient city of Timnah. This experience contributed to the inspiration for her novel Wings of Refuge.
Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. Since then she has published 27 novels. Eight of her historical novels, Hidden Places, Candle in the Darkness, Fire by Night, A Proper Pursuit, and Until We Reach Home have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, and 2009 for excellence in Christian Fiction. Fire by Night was also one of only five inspirational fiction books chosen by Library Journal for their top picks of 2003, and All She Ever Wanted was chosen as one of the five inspirational top picks of 2005. Lynn's novel Hidden Places has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel, starring actress Shirley Jones. Ms Jones received a 2006 Emmy Award nomination for her portrayal of Aunt Batty in the film.
It was during the long Canadian winters at home with her children that Lynn made progress on her dream to write, carving out a few hours of writing time each day while her children napped. Lynn credits her early experience of learning to write amid the chaos of family life for her ability to be a productive writer while making sure her family remains her top priority.
Extended family is also very important to Austin, and it was a lively discussion between Lynn, her mother, grandmother (age 98), and daughter concerning the change in women's roles through the generations that sparked the inspiration for her novel Eve's Daughters.
Along with reading, two of Lynn's lifelong passions are history and archaeology. While researching her Biblical fiction series, Chronicles of the Kings, these two interests led her to pursue graduate studies in Biblical Backgrounds and Archaeology through Southwestern Theological Seminary. She and her son traveled to Israel during the summer of 1989 to take part in an archaeological dig at the ancient city of Timnah. This experience contributed to the inspiration for her novel Wings of Refuge.
Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. Since then she has published 27 novels. Eight of her historical novels, Hidden Places, Candle in the Darkness, Fire by Night, A Proper Pursuit, and Until We Reach Home have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, and 2009 for excellence in Christian Fiction. Fire by Night was also one of only five inspirational fiction books chosen by Library Journal for their top picks of 2003, and All She Ever Wanted was chosen as one of the five inspirational top picks of 2005. Lynn's novel Hidden Places has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel, starring actress Shirley Jones. Ms Jones received a 2006 Emmy Award nomination for her portrayal of Aunt Batty in the film.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 642 reviews
October 20, 2009
As soon as I began this story, I thought of both of my Swedish grandmothers. Both emigrated around the turn of the century as young adults. Liverpool was where they boarded the steamship that brought them over. I felt as if I was learning so much more about what they'd experienced as I'd never asked either directly what life was like for them. My grandma Martha was actually a Karlsson before she wed, so I enjoyed the choice of the main characters' surname of Carlson.
Lynn Austin has brought her great storytelling abilities to this particular story. It moves along well, and I found myself wishing for resolution to their dilemmas (i.e.they were sponsored, but an unwanted trip to populate a northern community of bachelors was Auntie's solution to the dilemma of 3 extra mouths to feed at a difficult time) as much as the girls did themselves!
The girls learned to grow in their faith and encouraged one another with scripture. But the theme of faith was presented very realistically. I've read other Christian fiction where the faith element has had a ponderous moralizing tone, however, Lynn presents us with a very believable transition from a tenuous beginning to a confident trust through the events that shape the girls need for God.
Its a good, healthy read!
Lynn Austin has brought her great storytelling abilities to this particular story. It moves along well, and I found myself wishing for resolution to their dilemmas (i.e.they were sponsored, but an unwanted trip to populate a northern community of bachelors was Auntie's solution to the dilemma of 3 extra mouths to feed at a difficult time) as much as the girls did themselves!
The girls learned to grow in their faith and encouraged one another with scripture. But the theme of faith was presented very realistically. I've read other Christian fiction where the faith element has had a ponderous moralizing tone, however, Lynn presents us with a very believable transition from a tenuous beginning to a confident trust through the events that shape the girls need for God.
Its a good, healthy read!
June 3, 2023
Sweden and Chicago 1897
Engaging story about three teen/young adult sisters traveling from Sweden to Chicago to live with their uncle. So many things don't go as expected. Enjoyed being a part of their journey. My favorite character was Ludwig.
Engaging story about three teen/young adult sisters traveling from Sweden to Chicago to live with their uncle. So many things don't go as expected. Enjoyed being a part of their journey. My favorite character was Ludwig.
December 26, 2011
Where I got the book: my local library
Elin knows that she has to get her sisters away from their farm in Sweden before they also fall prey to her uncle Sven. Finding a new home for three orphaned women in 1897 isn't an easy task, but Elin believes an uncle in America may help them to start a new life. She has to overcome her sisters' own resistance and the hardships of emigration to reach a promised land that turns out not to be what they expected.
I was surprised how much I enjoyed reading this novel. Its unpretentious writing and straightforward narrative occasionally made me feel that I was reading a YA book, but this suited a story about three young, relatively uneducated women. The spiritual themes did not emerge straightaway, which I appreciated; most inspirational authors seem compelled to drop a "God bomb" into the first chapter to establish their Christian credentials, but Austin holds back until we're familiar with the three women and understand their inner struggles.
There is a strong theme of the vulnerability of "unprotected" women (very true in the society of the 1800s, of course) and I was worried at times that the only solution would be the strong arms of a man. Thankfully, the male characters displayed many vulnerabilities of their own, and in the end the most dominant characters in this book were the secondary female ones. The solutions to the protagonists' dilemmas were slightly farfetched, but satisfying.
The Swedish settings were fascinating, and made me want to know more about Chicago's Swedish community, which I've only experienced very briefly in the neighborhood of North Park college (mentioned in the book). The details about Ellis Island were quite illuminating, and the depiction of life aboard an immigrant ship kept me interested. All in all, an enjoyable historical-inspirational-romance read.
Elin knows that she has to get her sisters away from their farm in Sweden before they also fall prey to her uncle Sven. Finding a new home for three orphaned women in 1897 isn't an easy task, but Elin believes an uncle in America may help them to start a new life. She has to overcome her sisters' own resistance and the hardships of emigration to reach a promised land that turns out not to be what they expected.
I was surprised how much I enjoyed reading this novel. Its unpretentious writing and straightforward narrative occasionally made me feel that I was reading a YA book, but this suited a story about three young, relatively uneducated women. The spiritual themes did not emerge straightaway, which I appreciated; most inspirational authors seem compelled to drop a "God bomb" into the first chapter to establish their Christian credentials, but Austin holds back until we're familiar with the three women and understand their inner struggles.
There is a strong theme of the vulnerability of "unprotected" women (very true in the society of the 1800s, of course) and I was worried at times that the only solution would be the strong arms of a man. Thankfully, the male characters displayed many vulnerabilities of their own, and in the end the most dominant characters in this book were the secondary female ones. The solutions to the protagonists' dilemmas were slightly farfetched, but satisfying.
The Swedish settings were fascinating, and made me want to know more about Chicago's Swedish community, which I've only experienced very briefly in the neighborhood of North Park college (mentioned in the book). The details about Ellis Island were quite illuminating, and the depiction of life aboard an immigrant ship kept me interested. All in all, an enjoyable historical-inspirational-romance read.
July 6, 2018
Until We Reach Home is the story of Elin, Kirsten and Sophia, three sisters traveling to America from Sweden. It was very much about the harrowing journey they made to America, but even more so a coming-of-age story for each of them.
What I loved-the character development. Lynn Austin excels at creating realistic faults in her characters, and throughout the course of the book, we see each sister overcoming those faults. Each has their own issues to come to terms with - Elin, the need to control, Kirsten, selfishness and Sophie, fear. Their growth from total dependence on each other to relying on themselves and God was inspiring. I also loved the story itself. It was simple and sweet, yet oftentimes sad, and that made it realistic.
Unfortunately, it was a slow start for me, and I felt the plot could have moved a little more quickly. The rising action took a long time to rise. Another aspect I didn't like wast that at times the dialogue was a bit too simple and didn't come across as how real people would speak. And lastly, the ending was WAY too abrupt. Even a brief epilogue would have been nice, but it just felt like it ended.
This almost reads like a young adult novel, which kind of threw me at first, because I thought it could have been a bit more complex as far as the style goes. However, that doesn't mean that Austin shies away from tough topics. She addresses them in way that isn't gratuitous or overly-explicit. Overall, it was a great read, with a little bitter & a little sweet mixed together. I like how the resolution wasn't all sugary-sweet & tied up with a bow - except for one certain sister who got a sweet happily-ever-after. Still, all of the sisters have growing up to do and life to live, and Austin left the story there instead of depending on romance to save the day, and it was refreshing.
What I loved-the character development. Lynn Austin excels at creating realistic faults in her characters, and throughout the course of the book, we see each sister overcoming those faults. Each has their own issues to come to terms with - Elin, the need to control, Kirsten, selfishness and Sophie, fear. Their growth from total dependence on each other to relying on themselves and God was inspiring. I also loved the story itself. It was simple and sweet, yet oftentimes sad, and that made it realistic.
Unfortunately, it was a slow start for me, and I felt the plot could have moved a little more quickly. The rising action took a long time to rise. Another aspect I didn't like wast that at times the dialogue was a bit too simple and didn't come across as how real people would speak. And lastly, the ending was WAY too abrupt. Even a brief epilogue would have been nice, but it just felt like it ended.
This almost reads like a young adult novel, which kind of threw me at first, because I thought it could have been a bit more complex as far as the style goes. However, that doesn't mean that Austin shies away from tough topics. She addresses them in way that isn't gratuitous or overly-explicit. Overall, it was a great read, with a little bitter & a little sweet mixed together. I like how the resolution wasn't all sugary-sweet & tied up with a bow - except for one certain sister who got a sweet happily-ever-after. Still, all of the sisters have growing up to do and life to live, and Austin left the story there instead of depending on romance to save the day, and it was refreshing.
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October 24, 2024
Oh, boy, the first chapter is rough. The whole uncle situation really left a bad taste in my mouth. Elin was so controlling and Kirsten was so rebellious and Sofia whined all the time. I did think Sofia and Ludwig fell in love a little too fast for my taste. I admit I was shocked that Kirsten is the only who ended up pregnant instead of Elin. This was a good read although it kinda ended abruptly and I wouldn’t read again to be honest. 🤷🏼♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2023
This book was very good. The heartbreak the characters go through is very eye opening. I also really liked the descriptions of immigration, Ellis Island, and the barriers that immigrants have to work through even today.
The relationship between the sisters was strained because of secrets and miscommunication and that was very frustrating at times, although I did understand why some of the secrets were kept. But, when you keep a secret that someone else could help you with, more of the burden is on you and it is hard to actually figure out what you need to do. I wish the secrets would have been let out sooner.
Some of the men in this story were so romantic! I couldn't stop smiling when Ludwig declared his love through Bible verses. Then Gunner and his letters were so sweet!! Those were some of the best moments of the story.
The book felt a little long after a while. I just think the same story could have been told in less pages.
The relationship between the sisters was strained because of secrets and miscommunication and that was very frustrating at times, although I did understand why some of the secrets were kept. But, when you keep a secret that someone else could help you with, more of the burden is on you and it is hard to actually figure out what you need to do. I wish the secrets would have been let out sooner.
Some of the men in this story were so romantic! I couldn't stop smiling when Ludwig declared his love through Bible verses. Then Gunner and his letters were so sweet!! Those were some of the best moments of the story.
The book felt a little long after a while. I just think the same story could have been told in less pages.
February 5, 2011
I love Lynn Austin's books. This one takes a little longer to get into; the characters are so whiny. I know you need conflict to have resolution, but these sisters complain, complain, and complain! They even realize what they're doing and say they're going to reform (as we all do), but then go right back to whining. I read somewhere that this was written as an homage to her grandmother who immigrated from Sweden with her 2 sisters—I don't know if I dreamed that because I can't find it again. The true heroine of the book seems to me to be the youngest sister, as she finds her way out of constant fear into God's light fairly early in the book by reading the Bible—she's the voice of reason for many of the people in the book. The historical information about Ellis Island woven into the story is fascinating. If you have ancestors that came to the United States via the island, I recommend the book to you.
June 2, 2013
I wish there had been about 75 pages less at the beginning, and 75 more at the end. This story took a while to get going, but once it did I couldn't put it down. But then, just as I was reveling in a dramatic reunion scene, I turned the page to learn what happened... only the next page was blank. The book was over, and left me feeling rather gipped whereas only a few paragraphs before I had been breathless with anticipation. So, for my taste, a little more streamlining at the beginning and a slightly longer glimpse of the three sisters' happily-ever-afters would've made this a five-star book no question.
January 25, 2019
Îmi era dor de o poveste frumoasă cu final fericit, unde iubirea și credința înving disperările și nedreptățile.
July 6, 2018
Three young sisters make their way to America from Sweden during the height of the immigration movement in the late 1800's. Each has a different reason for wanting to emigrate or to stay in Sweden.
I really enjoyed the different personalities of the 3 sisters and how each changed, grew, and became more mature especially in their spiritual lives as they encountered all of the difficulties of emigrating and starting life anew in America. As a genealogist, I found Ms. Austin's description of emigration and the Ellis Island process very accurate and well-researched.
I could definitely see some sequels to this book continuing the story of each of the girls' lives.
I really enjoyed the different personalities of the 3 sisters and how each changed, grew, and became more mature especially in their spiritual lives as they encountered all of the difficulties of emigrating and starting life anew in America. As a genealogist, I found Ms. Austin's description of emigration and the Ellis Island process very accurate and well-researched.
I could definitely see some sequels to this book continuing the story of each of the girls' lives.
March 7, 2021
The Best!!
I can't review this book in few words, it's just beyond amazing this is was my very 2nd Christian fiction read.. yet it is always close to my heart.. I feel it's like a sweet memory of life. I know I might sound overexcited but it truly has that special place in my heart maybe because I have 2 such wonderful sisters
This is a story of three sisters Elin, Kristen and Sofia trying build life and find home .
It's their journey from Sweden to America to find safety and acceptance and themselves. It's a journey through pain, shame, love, responsibilities, togetherness , guilt, feelings, struggles, fears.
Life throws them different situations where they have nothing but a Little breath to live and the lowest strength to utter a small prayer just looking for rescue.
Ohh dear!! I felt like I was going with them,
I love all three of them.. Elin wants to save her sisters but they are angry at her for making them leave their Homeland where their mom & dad lived and died . But Ellie has no other choice than leaving it all to save her sisters. They thought life would treat them good once they move to America but No.. they go through wild cricumstances and are forced to face a nightmare of situations but still they go through it all together individually .
I highly highly recommend this book for anyone.
Worth every minute
I can't review this book in few words, it's just beyond amazing this is was my very 2nd Christian fiction read.. yet it is always close to my heart.. I feel it's like a sweet memory of life. I know I might sound overexcited but it truly has that special place in my heart maybe because I have 2 such wonderful sisters
This is a story of three sisters Elin, Kristen and Sofia trying build life and find home .
It's their journey from Sweden to America to find safety and acceptance and themselves. It's a journey through pain, shame, love, responsibilities, togetherness , guilt, feelings, struggles, fears.
Life throws them different situations where they have nothing but a Little breath to live and the lowest strength to utter a small prayer just looking for rescue.
Ohh dear!! I felt like I was going with them,
I love all three of them.. Elin wants to save her sisters but they are angry at her for making them leave their Homeland where their mom & dad lived and died . But Ellie has no other choice than leaving it all to save her sisters. They thought life would treat them good once they move to America but No.. they go through wild cricumstances and are forced to face a nightmare of situations but still they go through it all together individually .
I highly highly recommend this book for anyone.
Worth every minute
October 16, 2018
Three sisters leave their native Sweden for anew life in the United States.
When they arrived an arangement that was promised to them was not happening.
They relied on their faith in God, although they did some planning on their own; they were all happy.
This was a book I couldn't stop reading.
Good story.
When they arrived an arangement that was promised to them was not happening.
They relied on their faith in God, although they did some planning on their own; they were all happy.
This was a book I couldn't stop reading.
Good story.
January 11, 2012
This was a non-stop suprising and suspenseful novel. It deserves the highest rating!
It starts out in about late 17th century Sweden, where Elin, the oldest of three sisters (Elin,Kirsten,Sophia) feels the need to help her sisters move to start a new life in America, after having their beloved parents die, and their peverted uncle move in and take over. The Carlson sisters have had enough heartache, and their brother had before been forced to move out by Uncle Sven, who is now making perverted attempts at Sophia (the youngest) after doing so to Elin. Elin notices all this, and longs for her sisters to grow up in a safe haven. Elin begins writing her Uncle Lars in America, and is invited for her and her sisters to move in, under a condition that is mysterious to them at the moment. Sophia, the innocent sixteen-year old, regrets to leave her home, and is sorrowful on their journey. Kirsten, however, is furiously glad to go after being left heart-broken by Tor in Sweden. Little does she know she is carrying a suprise.
On their trip to America, through sea and rail-road, Elin is battling everything. Kirsten becomes flightsy and needy, Sophia becomes depressed, and Elin carries Typhus (sickness) on top of all her other burdens. This happens because she was taking care of a sick family.
Once they reach America, the Carlson sisters must pass inspection (physical health) to enter in America. Kirsten is sustained to a hospital because the doctors are hiding a secret about her "condition", while Elin is stuck in the hospital because of her typhus condition. Timid Sophia is left to wait in the inspection center, only speaking Swede, and she then meets a German man, who is a devoted Christian, and attempts to encourage her by looking up Scriptures, telling her the reference and then she would look up with numbers in her Bible. Not only does he play the violen beautifully, but his faith in God keep Sophia calm.
When Elin and Kirsten are released, there are some tension being held in. Kirsten is now hiding something from her sisters, and so is Elin. Once they arrive in America, they find out their condition to stay in America was to marry a stranger. Elin and her sisters refuse this condition, and so they must go to work to pay the men back.
The Carlson sisters end up working for a buttinsky old lady, who does not want to move out of her house, and who also is holding harsh feelings for her daughter in law. The Carlson sisters help the woman. The seemingly grouchy elderly woman adores Sophia's darling voice, and suggests she entertain folks with her gift. Meanwhile, Kirsten's secret is about to show.
Meanwhile, the girl's employer dies and leaves Elin a nursing scholarship, and Sophia a scholarship, along with Kirsten. Kirsten and Sophia also has surpises. Kirsten is getting married to a stranger, Sophia is taking the stage seriously, and Elin agrees to marry a man in Wisconsin she has been corresponding with, and offers her sisters to come with her even though they would not marry against their will. They all get angry, and it is up to God to sort everything out for them.
This heartwarming novel is perfect in every way, and is irrestible!
June 27, 2016
I really enjoyed this book because I learned a ton about my heritage. I knew about the facts about my Swedish family immigration, but I enjoyed this book because I got to dig deeper into the emotional side of my family history. In the book, 3 sisters named Elin, Sofia, and Kirsten immigrated from their small town in Sweden to Chicago (which is the exact same path that my family took). They then were faced with unwelcoming family, which was a huge surprise for them. They have to pay off their tickets because they didn't move to Wisconsin to marry the 3 men in turn for their tickets. So, they take a job with an elderly lady who is seen as mean. But, they learn that gossip can be wrong, and they see a different side of the lady and learn her story. They have to learn how to navigate an unknown city on their own and learn how to lead a life full of poverty and let downs but still be happy.
I think that each of the sisters have one important signature trait. Elin is always very thoughtful of others and humble. This is shown in the plot because she leaves her life behind so that she is able to provide and care for her sisters, which is very humble. Kerstin is able to admit and move on from her mistakes, which is something that is very valuable. I remember when I was little my mom would always tell to me to "Look up and out" which is shown very well in this book. The phrase means to look up and pray for forgiveness and to confess your sins, and to look out and move on from you mistakes by learning from them. Sofia is very determined because she is able to overcome her fears such as stage fright or leaving her home so that she can better her and her sister's lives!
My favorite part of the book was the romance between Sofia and Ludwig because it is a perfect example of a silver lining of a problem. At first glance, the sickness of Kerstin and Elin seems very unfortunate. But, Sofia grows from it by meeting the love of her life! If Sofia never had to stay at Ellis Island and wait for her sisters to get well, she never would have met Ludwig. This shows how God works to plan out our life and how He works in mysterious ways! I learned that we should always trust God to shape our lives. "'For I know the plans I have for you', declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to to give you hope and a future.'" - Jeremiah 29:11.
Although the book was great, I do have a few complaints. Fist off, I wish the book was a bit longer so we could learn more of the resolution. In my opinion it ended a bit short and abruptly. Second, I wish that the girls weren't involved with the the stolen jewelry and didn't go to jail because I thought it was bit cheesy and didn't incorporate into the rest of the book very well.
Overall, I loved the book because of it's beneficial messages and informational plot!
I think that each of the sisters have one important signature trait. Elin is always very thoughtful of others and humble. This is shown in the plot because she leaves her life behind so that she is able to provide and care for her sisters, which is very humble. Kerstin is able to admit and move on from her mistakes, which is something that is very valuable. I remember when I was little my mom would always tell to me to "Look up and out" which is shown very well in this book. The phrase means to look up and pray for forgiveness and to confess your sins, and to look out and move on from you mistakes by learning from them. Sofia is very determined because she is able to overcome her fears such as stage fright or leaving her home so that she can better her and her sister's lives!
My favorite part of the book was the romance between Sofia and Ludwig because it is a perfect example of a silver lining of a problem. At first glance, the sickness of Kerstin and Elin seems very unfortunate. But, Sofia grows from it by meeting the love of her life! If Sofia never had to stay at Ellis Island and wait for her sisters to get well, she never would have met Ludwig. This shows how God works to plan out our life and how He works in mysterious ways! I learned that we should always trust God to shape our lives. "'For I know the plans I have for you', declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to to give you hope and a future.'" - Jeremiah 29:11.
Although the book was great, I do have a few complaints. Fist off, I wish the book was a bit longer so we could learn more of the resolution. In my opinion it ended a bit short and abruptly. Second, I wish that the girls weren't involved with the the stolen jewelry and didn't go to jail because I thought it was bit cheesy and didn't incorporate into the rest of the book very well.
Overall, I loved the book because of it's beneficial messages and informational plot!
February 19, 2013
Life in Sweden is hard for three sisters in Sweden after their mother's death and father's suicide. Oldest sister Elin feels the weight of responsibility for her sisters' welfare, and when circumstances become unbearable, she writes to her uncle in Chicago, pleading for help. He sends them tickets to come to America, and in 1897, Elin, Kirsten and Sofia begin a long, difficult journey. They have to endure an ocean voyage in steerage, then detention on Ellis Island, before finally arriving in Chicago and then not getting the warm welcome from their aunt and uncle that they were expecting. They are willing to hard though, and are determined to stay together and make a new life for themselves.
I really enjoyed this story, especially the relationship between Sophia, who could only speak Swedish, and Ludwig, who only knew German; they did not let a language barrier prevent them from falling in love, and found a unique way to communicate.
This story was well researched, and having Scandinavian ancestors on my dad's side of the family, it gave me a whole new appreciation of some of the things they had to go through in order to settle here.
March 19, 2009
This is my first time to read any books by Lynn Austin.
I have to admit I enjoy this so much that I read this in two nights. I stayed up real late one night and then finished it off the next night. That's how good this book!
Basically it's about three sisters from Sweden who end up in America and that is all I will say since I dont' want to give the whole story away. Good news is that it has a great ending and has no bad parts or cussing. This should be for young teenagers to adults. I do not think that anyone under age 13 should read this.
The only thing is that one person gets pregnant in the book so Moms, you might want to talk about that with your kids. The book does not talk about it other than that the person is going to have a baby.
It's a great christian, clean fiction book that's entertaining and fun to read.
I have to admit I enjoy this so much that I read this in two nights. I stayed up real late one night and then finished it off the next night. That's how good this book!
Basically it's about three sisters from Sweden who end up in America and that is all I will say since I dont' want to give the whole story away. Good news is that it has a great ending and has no bad parts or cussing. This should be for young teenagers to adults. I do not think that anyone under age 13 should read this.
The only thing is that one person gets pregnant in the book so Moms, you might want to talk about that with your kids. The book does not talk about it other than that the person is going to have a baby.
It's a great christian, clean fiction book that's entertaining and fun to read.
October 25, 2022
More than half way through this book was very slow and depressing but something still intrigued me to keep reading it. It had a very good ending to it so I'm glad I stuck it out.
Read
February 27, 2023rtc
July 23, 2024
I loved this one.
May 23, 2024
This book was sappy, predictable, and a little cheesy…I loved it! It was the perfect fit for a book rut and for just a season where I needed less intellectual stimulation from a book and more predictable, Hallmark feel.
June 10, 2018
Another wonderful historical fiction story by Lynn Austin. I will admit that right now, I can’t get enough of her! Every book I read makes me want to read more!
This story follows 3 sisters from Sweden who struggle with some difficult circumstances while living on the farm they grew up on in a small village in Sweden. Aileen (the oldest sister) is also harboring a deep dark secret and will do anything to protect her sisters from this darkness. Aileen’s determination to take care of and protect her 2 sisters leads them on a journey together to America. The first part of the book was a bit slow but the real adventure takes place once they get to America (and then I couldn’t put the book down!).
You will enjoy traveling to Ellis Island with these 3 beautiful girls and watching them mature as they face a new world together and find out just how important their love for each other really is.
This story follows 3 sisters from Sweden who struggle with some difficult circumstances while living on the farm they grew up on in a small village in Sweden. Aileen (the oldest sister) is also harboring a deep dark secret and will do anything to protect her sisters from this darkness. Aileen’s determination to take care of and protect her 2 sisters leads them on a journey together to America. The first part of the book was a bit slow but the real adventure takes place once they get to America (and then I couldn’t put the book down!).
You will enjoy traveling to Ellis Island with these 3 beautiful girls and watching them mature as they face a new world together and find out just how important their love for each other really is.
March 11, 2013
I'm so glad I picked this one up; going in I had no idea how much I would enjoy it. The three sisters (Elin, Kirsten, and Sofia) are very close and have a deep love for one another, yet each one holds secrets they're afraid or too ashamed to share. These secrets ultimately lead them to leave their homeland behind in search of a new life in America.
The point of view continually changes, going back and forth between the sisters. While all three sisters have a unique role and different ways of looking at things, Sophia is the one that stands out in my mind. Initially she greatly aggravated me with her pessimistic attitude, but once the sisters reached Ellis Island I was delighted to see an extreme change in Sophia's behavior, to the point that I found myself anticipating the chapters told from her perspective. She turned out to have a very good head on her shoulders, and the romance between her and the German immigrant she meets is simply beautiful. I never would've thought I'd enjoy a romance between two people who can't speak the same language, but I think it's actually one of the best I've ever read. It's very touching, and the way they used their Bibles to communicate was just *awesome*, there's no other word to describe it.
As I read, I felt as if I was going through the immigration process right along with the sisters. If I didn't know better, I'd think the author had actually gone through the process herself to be able to convey such details and vivid imagery. Something that really struck me was the hope all of the immigrants had for their futures in America, they looked upon our nation with such awe, so full of optimistic expectations. It's simply amazing to realize the depth of emotion, the hope these people had for their new lives in our country, and the hardships they endured just to get here.
Most of what I've mentioned happens in the first third of the book, as I don't want to give spoilers for the later parts of the story. Suffice it to say that the three sisters go through unexpected ups and downs, but as they learn to trust God in both the good times and bad, they find freedom from the haunting secrets in their past. The story tackles some tough subjects, but it's handled very well, leaving you with an impression of the difficult scenarios without giving too many details. This story of the three sisters' journey and search for a new beginning in life is truly amazing....I very much enjoyed it. Highly, highly recommended!
The point of view continually changes, going back and forth between the sisters. While all three sisters have a unique role and different ways of looking at things, Sophia is the one that stands out in my mind. Initially she greatly aggravated me with her pessimistic attitude, but once the sisters reached Ellis Island I was delighted to see an extreme change in Sophia's behavior, to the point that I found myself anticipating the chapters told from her perspective. She turned out to have a very good head on her shoulders, and the romance between her and the German immigrant she meets is simply beautiful. I never would've thought I'd enjoy a romance between two people who can't speak the same language, but I think it's actually one of the best I've ever read. It's very touching, and the way they used their Bibles to communicate was just *awesome*, there's no other word to describe it.
As I read, I felt as if I was going through the immigration process right along with the sisters. If I didn't know better, I'd think the author had actually gone through the process herself to be able to convey such details and vivid imagery. Something that really struck me was the hope all of the immigrants had for their futures in America, they looked upon our nation with such awe, so full of optimistic expectations. It's simply amazing to realize the depth of emotion, the hope these people had for their new lives in our country, and the hardships they endured just to get here.
Most of what I've mentioned happens in the first third of the book, as I don't want to give spoilers for the later parts of the story. Suffice it to say that the three sisters go through unexpected ups and downs, but as they learn to trust God in both the good times and bad, they find freedom from the haunting secrets in their past. The story tackles some tough subjects, but it's handled very well, leaving you with an impression of the difficult scenarios without giving too many details. This story of the three sisters' journey and search for a new beginning in life is truly amazing....I very much enjoyed it. Highly, highly recommended!
June 19, 2013
After suffering the heartache from the death of their mother and the humiliation from their father's suicide, the three Carlson sisters leave their family home in Sweden to travel to America in the late 1890s. They leave behind all that is familiar to them, taking the secrets they carry with them. The oldest sister, Elin, feels responsible for her sisters Kirsten and Sofia, and guards them like a mother hen. On the ship, free spirited Kirsten roams freely and fretful Sofia yearns to return home. The arrival at Ellis Island is fraught with peril and revelations. Upon arriving in Chicago it is not the warm welcome they expect from their Uncle and Aunt. They discover their passage to America has been paid for by a group of Swedish men from Wisconsin desiring to find brides for the lonely bachelors. Desiring their independence the girls to not go to Wisconsin and vow to repay their travel fees. They find employment with an elderly widow cleaning her home and caring for her needs. Despite the hardships the sisters face each girl discovers their strengths, find new friendships and love, and growth in their faith. They each find a new "home".
September 21, 2010
Life in Sweden seems like an endless winter for three sisters after their mother's death and father's suicide. Elin feels the weight of responsibility for her sisters' welfare, and when circumstances become unbearable, she writes to her relatives in Chicago, pleading for help.
Joining sixteen million other immigrants who left their homelands for America between 1890 and 1920, Elin, Kirsten, and Sofia begin the long, difficult journey. Enduring the ocean voyage in steerage and detention on Ellis Island, their story is Americas story. And in a journey fraught with hardships, each woman will come to understand her secret longings and the meaning of home.
My Review - It took me a bit to get into this book because of the trip from Sweden to America but then after I got through that part I actually was happy I'd gotten through it. The book wouldn't have been as good without those details. I loved how all the girls turned out. And the story put into details how we should always trust God instead of our own abilities.
Joining sixteen million other immigrants who left their homelands for America between 1890 and 1920, Elin, Kirsten, and Sofia begin the long, difficult journey. Enduring the ocean voyage in steerage and detention on Ellis Island, their story is Americas story. And in a journey fraught with hardships, each woman will come to understand her secret longings and the meaning of home.
My Review - It took me a bit to get into this book because of the trip from Sweden to America but then after I got through that part I actually was happy I'd gotten through it. The book wouldn't have been as good without those details. I loved how all the girls turned out. And the story put into details how we should always trust God instead of our own abilities.
July 1, 2015
What a good read!
Another great novel by Lynn Austin. When you pick up one of her books, you know it will be a meaningful and faith filled story. Her ability to make characters special, real and very different continues to amaze me! The way they change through her stories is so well done.
I grew very attached to the 3 main characters, sisters moving to America from Sweden. Each story line was interesting and it was wonderful to watch the sisters grow into themselves and to grow in faith.
I really, truly wish there were sequels for each sister! Although the ending was satisfying and there was definite closure to the story, it didn't feel like enough. I want to know more about how things work out!
The truths about God and His Word that were put in the story are very memorable and make you think.
Another great novel by Lynn Austin. When you pick up one of her books, you know it will be a meaningful and faith filled story. Her ability to make characters special, real and very different continues to amaze me! The way they change through her stories is so well done.
I grew very attached to the 3 main characters, sisters moving to America from Sweden. Each story line was interesting and it was wonderful to watch the sisters grow into themselves and to grow in faith.
I really, truly wish there were sequels for each sister! Although the ending was satisfying and there was definite closure to the story, it didn't feel like enough. I want to know more about how things work out!
The truths about God and His Word that were put in the story are very memorable and make you think.
December 10, 2012
Thîs was a sweet story. It's the story of three Swedish sisters journey to America and the trials that they face. Their parents are dead and their older brother abandoned them. They have a nasty uncle who has taken over the farm so now their only option is to go to America. It switches between the three points of view, which I really liked. I am the oldest of 5 girls so I could really relate with the oldest sister Elin. She acted like an older sister would.
The romance with Sofia and Ludwig was my favorite! It was so sweet! She only speaks Swedish and he only speaks German so they use bible verses to communicate. My only compliant is that I wish they would have found their homes sooner in the story so we could see them be happier for longer than the last five pages.
The romance with Sofia and Ludwig was my favorite! It was so sweet! She only speaks Swedish and he only speaks German so they use bible verses to communicate. My only compliant is that I wish they would have found their homes sooner in the story so we could see them be happier for longer than the last five pages.
March 3, 2013
This was a pretty good book! I'm not going to give too many details to keep from spoiling anything, but it follows the trials of three sisters who are immigrating from Sweden to America. I downloaded the book because of the tie to NYC and Ellis Island, which I had recently visited, and as such, was able to appreciate those scenes so much more for my familiarity with the location. The characters were well-written and interesting, and I liked that the narrative switched between the sisters' points of view to give you a look into each one's mind.
Clean Reads Warning: Nothing objectionable, although there is mention of things that happen to and with the sisters that are beyond what some younger might be ready to handle.
Clean Reads Warning: Nothing objectionable, although there is mention of things that happen to and with the sisters that are beyond what some younger might be ready to handle.
March 31, 2009
Lynn Austin never disappoints me. I love how when you read her books you really feel like you can really relate to what the people would have been experiencing during the time period. This book is about emigrants coming to America, it documents their time on Ellis Island, and their journey. It describes many of the hardships they faced, yet it is all centered around the story of 3 sisters growing up and choosing their own paths. If you have liked other Lynn Austin novels (or you enjoy good historical fiction)- pick this one up and give it a read.
September 29, 2019
I wanted to love this book… I really did but I was so disappointed in the ending. It’s like she ran out of paper! I looked see if she had written a sequel but I can’t find anything… I spent a long time on this journey with these three sisters and I have to say I’m terribly disappointed with the ending.
September 26, 2013
This author, Lynn Austin, makes a story come alive! You feel as if you are living the story right along with the characters. Wonderful Christian literature.
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