Through the Deep Waters

by Kim Vogel Sawyer

Born to an unloving prostitute in a popular Chicago brothel, timid seventeen-year-old Dinah Hubley was raised amidst the secrets held in every dark, grimy room of her home. Anxious to escape, Dinah pursues her dream of becoming a Harvey Girl, waiting tables along the railroad in an upscale hotel. But when she finds out she isn't old enough, her only option is to accept a job as a chambermaid at the Clifton Hotel in Florence, Kansas. Eager to put everything behind her, Dinah feels more worthless than ever, based on a single horrible decision she made to survive.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Romance, Fiction, Historical, Christian, Christian Romance

340 pages, Paperback

First published May 6, 2014

About the author

Award-winning, bestselling author Kim Vogel Sawyer told her kindergarten teacher that someday people would check out her book in the library. The little-girl dream came true in 2006 with the release of Waiting for Summer's Return. Kim's titles now exceed 1.5 million copies and are available in six different languages. A former elementary school teacher, she now enjoys a full-time writing and speaking ministry. Kim's passion lies in writing stories that point the reader to a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. When Kim isn't writing, you'll find her traveling with her retired military hubby, spoiling her granddarlings, petting the cats, quilting, or--as time allows--participating in community theater. You can learn more about Kim's writing and speaking ministries at her website, KimVogelSawyer.com.

Reviews

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what an excellent story. I loved seeing Dinah flower and grow and learn to trust in a loving Saviour who came not to condemn her for her past sins, but to forgive her for them and give her a hope and a future. The Christian message in this story is beautiful and inspiring. Highly recommended!

Content: a scene toward the front of a woman being taken advantage of; 18+ for that. If you’re okay with the scene in Catherine Marshall’s “Christy,” this one isn’t that bad.

[Andrea Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sin.

Sin is something we don’t often talk about. Why is that? It’s bleak, uncomfortable, intrusive, suffocating… The list could go on forever. To me, sin is an obstacle, a stumbling block in my path to righteousness. It’s something to cast off, to be forgiven for by God.

To Dinah Hubley, the lead character in Kim Vogel Sawyer’s latest novel Through the Deep Waters, sin is her haunting reality and nightly terror. Born to a prostitute and raised in a brothel, Dinah escapes to Florence, Kansas, where she intends to become a Harvey girl. The esteemed position of server in Mr. Harvey’s hotel dining room might be Dinah’s dream job, but her past might prove too strong to overcome. Will Dinah succumb to the black cloud her sin has created? Or will her new friends show her God’s healing love, extending an invitation she can’t refuse?

My heart shattered for Dinah as she began her journey in the darkest of circumstances. As I turned each page, I yearned for redemption, hope, and faith for the young lady. Each new chapter brought fresh struggles, which made it difficult to set the books aside to sleep or work. Though heart wrenching, Through the Deep Waters is an exquisite tale that is bound to help broken people find God’s healing touch. The theme of brokenness appeared early on and was reiterated when Dinah asked another character, “What… broke you?” She wasn’t the only one hurting, nor was she the only one in need of mending.

This story of redemption shares the author’s heart for the abused people of the world. Kim offers a ray of hope with the story of a harlot’s daughter seeking more than her past says she deserves. That hope for a bright future, even with a blackened past, is what salvation is all about. It’s why Jesus Christ came to Earth, lived a pure life, and died on the cross. It’s why He rose from the tomb and ascended into Heaven. He came to save the lost, heal the broken, rescue and revive the weary and downtrodden.

Are you in need of a Savior?

Consider this your invitation to the healing He offers.

In lieu of a question today, I offer this prayer:

Father in Heaven, thank You for allowing me to touch my readers’ lives today. Please bless each one in the ways You know they need. If they are brothers and sisters in the faith, I thank You and ask that You bring them ever closer to Your heart. If they have not yet discovered the freedom and healing You offer, I thank You for the opportunity to be Your witness. Please will You touch my readers’ hearts today? Will You draw them near to Your heart and plant that seed of faith? In the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.


Kim, thank you for the complimentary copy of Through the Deep Waters. It’s a joy to be a member of your street team, Hope Harbingers. I appreciate the tenderness you poured upon the pages of Dinah’s story. Thank you for reaching out to the broken. Thank you for being one of God’s vessels.

[Caity · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an inspirational and heartwarming story! Though not everyone will relate to Dinah's background or circumstances, all will be able to understand her pain and yearning for truth and peace- we've all been there (some are now!). Others may relate even closer to Dinah, and if so, this story is definitely for you.
Each major character in this story is looking for guidance and direction, but they have fear rooted in their circumstances and/or past.
Dinah's awakening to the knowledge of a God who loves her and desires a closer relationship with her despite her past sins and lineage was touching to see and the reminder that no matter what is going on in our lives God will never leave us or forsake us was a comfort.
Ruthie needed to learn to surrender her will to the Lord and have patience as she waited to discover His plans for her life- and once they were made known to her, to accept them with joy and grow in doing His will.
Content referenced in the back cover synopsis regarding Dinah's "horrible decision" was handled well and without much detail; however, I would not recommend the story for younger girls.
Most of the characters in this story- major and minor- were lovable and fun!
Kim's novels always leave me encouraged, strengthened, and satisfied.

To find out more about Kim Vogel Sawyer and her charming novels, visit her website: http://kimvogelsawyer.com/
You can also try out the story here: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/wp-con...
For information on the publisher, author, and novel, click here: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalo...

I received this book for free from Blogging for Books for this review.

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first Kim Vogel Sawyer book and I was anything but disappointed in it. The way the author was able to weave in three main characters' story and their relationships with each other and God was out of this world.

The main character in the book is a 17 year old gal by the name of Dinah Hubley and she is not your typical average girl (even for this being back in 1883). Dinah was born and raised in a brothel in the city of Chicago. She works at the Yellow Parrot doing all duties except for one that she mother does. Her mother was not the loving carefree mother Dinah had hoped for or read about in books. Her mother was not really there for Dinah like Rueben (the cook) had been. Rueben is really the only friend and it does not really make him a great friend of Dinah’s at the Yellow Parrot. Hr was very much a father figure for her if she had a father.

Dinah longs to get away from the life she is living to something more proper like being a server at one of Mr. Harvey’s hotels. The problem though that is Dinah was no money to get away, until Ms. Flo gives her a suggestion. Flo convinces Dinah to have a one night stand with a guy and then she will be free to do as she pleases.

Wanting to be free sounds good but when the actual time comes for her to perform her duties, she tries backing out. The gentleman is anything but a gentleman and when he is done with her, takes his leave. Dinah is left there feeling more bound than free. For the rest of the book Dinah has to hide what she is feeling and hide from her past from those she meets, but sometimes that is not as easy as she hoped it would be specially when she meets Ruthie Mead and Amos Ackerman.

Another character in the book and who I really loved was a chambermaid at the Clifton Hotel named Ruthie. From the moment the author introduces Ruthie in the story, she is delightful getting to know. She is the daughter of a preacher, Mr. Mead. Though while being the daughter of a preacher might make you think, she has everything undercontrol in her spiritual life, far from it. She has to tackle with her emotions of jealousy, envy, and pride. She is in love with a man who is in love with someone else. Plus, having to share a room with a girl who she believes to be someone she really is not.

Amos Ackerman is a chicken farmer who longs for a wife and family on his farm. The problems though are that he limps and does not have a great large farm and sells little amounts of eggs to the town’s folks. He wants to expand his business and so he tries to have The Clifton Hotel buy his eggs that does not go as according to Amos’ plan. Amos, discovers Dinah and throughout the book falls in love with her but finding out of her past test his virtue in forgiveness. It is easy to read about forgiveness in the Bible but a lot harder when the choice to forgive has to be made.

It’s a hard book in that it is emotional and yet funny at the same time. The moments when Ruthie talks people’s ears off, the puppies that Amos shows Dinah or the cute little boy (I cried when I read this part of the book) named Cale who says the strangest things and at the wrong moments.

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

Through the Deep Waters made me yearn for simpler times. It was the simplicity of the novel...joy at seeing new puppies, spending hours penning a letter to a beau, and seeking approval from family that made this novel so satisfying. Finding peace and forgiveness through Christ was woven throughout the novel. The journey of Ruthie, a secondary character, was well done. Through the Deep Waters was a very enjoyable read.

While this is rather superficial...I did not care for the cover at all. A cover with live models is SO much more appealing than a cover with painted or drawn people. I would not have read this book by just looking at the cover.

[Nattie · Rating 1 out of 5]

Kim Vogel is obviously a good writer, but I couldn't get into some of the characters. I liked Dinah well enough, but I wasn't interested in reading the Amos or Ruthie chapters. Ruthie was a bit to OTT for me.

The book starts off in a rather depressing manner, and honestly I get so sick of men trying to or taking advantage of women in historical fiction.

[Jazmine · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is going to sound terrible I know, but this one was just too Jesus-y for me. I knew that it was Christian fiction coming in but I don't want to beat over the head with it. Sorry, just not for me. I'll stick with Karen Witemeyer.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars, rounded up.

This was a very sad and depressing read at first. The first few chapters/the first 20 pages were very sad to read about. Even though nothing was discussed in detail, it was still very sad. My heart went out to Dinah for all that she suffered. I also felt for Ruthie, who just wanted to be friends with Dinah but who was constantly pushed away because of Dinah’s fear of letting anyone in. There was a lot of sadness, but also a lot of faith content and it ended on a much more hopeful note. While not a favorite of mine by this author, it had a good message.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful story of someone who thought herself unworthy who in the end finds God's love and happiness. Beautifully written!

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Where I got the book: review copy provided by publisher.

My feature article on this and another novel appears on the Historical Novel Society website.

The story begins in Chicago in 1883, where Dinah Hubley is growing to adulthood in the brothel where she was born. Her mother, a notorious prostitute known as Untameable Tori, is dying and the only way Dinah can afford both the care her mother needs and her own escape from a world she hates is to sell her virginity. She changes her mind when she sees the customer, but it’s too late—and Dinah earns her money.

Dinah’s escape plan is to go to Florence, Kansas, to work in a Harvey Hotel as a chambermaid. There she meets Ruthie, a preacher’s daughter who tries to befriend her, and chicken farmer Amos Ackerman, who has his own problems—a childhood accident has left him lame and unable to participate in his family’s tradition of wheat farming.

Ruthie and Amos are both longing for love and to start a family, and a love triangle emerges as Ruthie sets her cap at Amos who sets his cap at Dinah—who doesn’t believe any decent man will ever marry her if he knew her secret. A growing interest in God is the only thing that can pull Dinah out of her spiral of shame and fear and help her face her past and future.

So here are all the elements of a full-on Christian novel: characters with histories or issues that pull them away from God, characters who move them in the direction of God, and some issues that will only get resolved if everyone decides to stop trying to make it happen by themselves and rely on God instead. From which you will deduce that the spiritual story takes the forefront, and indeed I found myself wondering if a non-believer would be able to get past the strong evangelical tone. I came to the conclusion that Sawyer must inevitably be preaching to the converted or the willing-to-be-converted, not a bad thing in itself but problematical if you’d like to see inspirational fiction break out of its bubble and attract more mainstream readers.

Such considerations aside, I found myself enjoying the story. So many near misses pop up in inspirational fiction that I was expecting Dinah to escape her john and run off to pursue a virtuous life, but no! she’s ruined first and THEN runs off to show a falsely virtuous front to the world, with consequences. And Amos carries corresponding burdens of resentment and bitterness about a physical disability that, in a farming community, would make life difficult and cause him to be far less attractive to single women and their parents. I liked learning about the Harvey Hotels that served passengers on the railroad leading to the frontier destinations out west, and even relished the details of the perils that surrounded chicken farming in an untamed country. Another character, the boy Cale, displayed a different facet of the hardships of life in the western states, while Ruthie’s family showed the contrasting happy unity of a hardworking Christian family. Life on the frontier was tough, the message goes, and you needed faith and togetherness to get through it all.

Of course, the whole story is covered with that slightly glossy Hallmark feel that you get when you’re unwilling to delve deeply into the gritty nastiness of the real world. The plot, with the exception of the unlikely coincidence that betrayed Dinah’s secret, is strong enough to support a bigger, tougher, heartbreaker of a novel but alas, the readers of inspirational fiction want the Hallmark version and that’s what they generally get. And there’s that ornate language again—why, for example, do characters in inspirational novels “offer a smile” and “release a laugh” rather than just smile or laugh?

Still, if you’re in the mood for an unreservedly evangelical read and like interesting plots and historical backgrounds, Through The Deep Waters is very satisfying. I felt pulled through the book by that feeling you always want to arouse in the reader’s mind, the craving to know what happens next, and was left with some spiritual points to ponder. For the right audience, this is an uplifting and engaging story.

[Carole Jarvis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed at The Power of Words: http://tinyurl.com/kqymry5

Through the Deep Waters by Kim Vogel Sawyer is a surprisingly different type of read, one that I found very refreshing and fulfilling. The story is touching, romance tender and sweet, characterization rich, and the theme of redemption is strong. As I began reading, I thought this would be a typical historical romance, maybe even a little predictable - but the further I read, the more I discovered there was nothing typical or predictable about this book.

Through the Deep Waters opens in Florence, Kansas, during the year of 1883 and features the Clifton Hotel, the first hotel owned by Fred Harvey, the man credited with bringing culture to the West. The story is told from three points of view - those of Dinah, Amos, and Ruthie, Dinah's roommate - and that technique worked very well for me.

Character depth is one of this story's strong points. When it came to relationships, Dinah "kept her distance, fearful she'd accidentally share the secrets of her past and let everyone know just how different she really was." Amos and Dinah seem a little stilted or awkward at first, but it's easy to understand why as you get to know them. They reflect the brokenness with which many of us cope, some visibly obvious and others deeply buried. Kim deals with serious life issues head on while confronting sin honestly, in a way not often seen in today's Christian fiction, and I deeply appreciated that.

One of this story's main strengths is its spiritual overtones, and I think every reader will be touched in some way. The message of forgiveness is woven throughout every page, and I loved the way Ruthie shared her faith and the resulting scene of redemption. Dinah's character reflects how mistaken self perception can easily blind us to the love around us. And then there's all the wonderful contrasts that Kim beautifully brought out: that we build barriers around ourselves, but God tears them down . . . we allow guilt and shame to condemn us, while God freely offers forgiveness and unconditional love . . . we focus on building earthly relationships to fulfill our wants, while God wants to show us that He is all we need.

Another strength is this story's conclusion, for Through the Deep Waters has one of the sweetest and most satisfying endings I've ever read. I wish there could be a sequel, for I'd like to see more of Amos and Dinah, as well as the development of some of the secondary characters. Highly recommended. 5 stars based on the way this book made me feel.

Thank you to Blogging for Books and WaterBrook Press for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Born to a prostitute and raised in a popular Chicago brothel, seventeen year old Dinah Hubley longs to escape the life she's been exposed to her entire life. When she hears that Mr. Harvey is hiring waitresses for his chain of restaurants along the railroad in the West, she dreams of becoming one of the Harvey Girls. But then she learns she doesn't meet the age requirement. With no other option left to her, she accepts a position as a chamber maid at the Clifton Hotel in Florence, Kansas. Surrounded by all of the beauty of the hotel, Dinah begins to feel more worthless due to one horrible decision she made to survive. As Dinah begins to become accustomed to her duties at the hotel, her outgoing roommate invites her to church. There Dinah meets Amos Ackerman, a local chicken farmer, and as he shows interest in her, she withdraws further. Will Amos be able to show Dinah Christ's love?

I've read several of Kim Vogel Sawyer's books and have enjoyed each one. This one caught my attention due to the fact it involved Harvey Girls, a topic I've long enjoyed ever since the Judy Garland musical The Harvey Girls.

This one isn't the light-hearted book I typically enjoy with historical fiction. It is very deep. Every one of the main characters struggle with sin. For Dinah, it's the sin of her past. For Amos, it's the sin of disobedience (he decides to do things on his own time table and his own way). For Ruthie, it's the sin of jealousy. But still, each of those characters come to realize what they are doing and find repentance and salvation in Jesus Christ. Dinah's transformation is probably the most gripping of the entire story. Because she didn't know her Savior prior to meeting Ruthie and Amos.

But I love the message of forgiveness woven through the pages of this book. I also love how the author doesn't sugar coat the sin. She deals with it bluntly and honestly. And for me, that is rather refreshing as I've read several authors who gloss over sin.

I look forward to what Kim Vogel Sawyer will bring us next, because her books are usually pretty good.

I received the Kindle version of this book for free from Blogging for Books for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Francine Rivers, Jody Hedlund, Kim Vogel Sawyer, historical fiction

Rating - 4 stars

[Mercy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Back Cover:
Born to an unloving prostitute in a popular Chicago brothel, timid seventeen-year-old Dinah Hubley was raised amidst the secrets held in every dark, grimy room of her home. Anxious to escape, Dinah pursues her dream of becoming a Harvey Girl, waiting tables along the railroad in an upscale hotel. But when she finds out she isn’t old enough, her only option is to accept a job as a chambermaid at the Clifton Hotel in Florence, Kansas. Eager to put everything behind her, Dinah feels more worthless than ever, based on a single horrible decision she made to survive.
The Clifton offers a life Dinah has never known, but blinded to the love around her, Dinah remains buried in the shame of her past. When a handsome chicken farmer named Amos Ackerman starts to show interest, Dinah withdraws further, convinced no one could want a sullied woman like her. Despite his self-consciousness about his handicapped leg and her strange behavior, Amos resolves to show Dinah Christ’s love. But can she ever accept a gift she so desperately needs?

The Positives:
This has to be the best book I've read so far this year! I read most of it in less than a day. I couldn't put it down!
The author does an amazing job making you feel for her characters. Every part of the book, I was feeling heartbroken for Dinah and Amos. I would get frustrated at them when I needed to. I got choked up when Dinah accepted Christ.
Dinah and Amos's romance was so sweet and I love it that they didn't kiss until their wedding day. I sometimes got frustrated at Amos when he learned Dinah's secret and was angry at God and Dinah.
I loved Dinah's friendship with Ruthie. Even though Ruthie had her problems, I loved it when Dinah and her became great friends.
It had a great ending and I was so happy for them!

The Negatives:
Nothing negative at all!

Overall:
This was an amazing book about God's love and forgiveness and I definitely recommend it!

I received this book for free from Blogging for Books for this review.

[Cherie Kasper · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another book written by Kim Vogel Sawyer that hits the nail right on the head. Kim doesn't just barely talk about faith, and hope and love. She dives right in and brings it all home for you. This book spells out exactly what you need to do and feel to become a believer in Christ and how to live your life if you are already a believer. In the meantime, she is telling the story of a historical place and people that few people know about.
Dinah Hubley has been born and raised in a place of ill repute, her mother doing what she had to to keep them going. But, she also has no time or love for Dinah. Dinah wants to get out but ends up making a big mistake while trying to do just that. Dinah has dreams, big dreams, of what she would like her life to be.
Amos Ackerman was raised in a Christian home but left his family so he would be able to follow his dreams. Amos had an accident when he was young which left him with an impairment. Would this impairment lead him to a dream he had never dared dream?
I loved this story of life, pain, hope, love and dreams of better lives. Each character was well developed as the story starts, and adds much more as it finishes. I have always admired the way Kim has of painting you a picture with words of the settings where her stories take place, and this book is no exception. The plots keep you interested and excited to keep reading, it was very hard to put down without finishing the whole thing.
I would recommend this book to all who love reading Kim's books and any others who love Christian historical fiction. Oh, forgot to say I love the setting, it's very close to where I grew up.

[Hallie (Hallie Reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

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(Follow link for GIVEAWAY until August 20th.)

Born to an unloving prostitute, seventeen-year-old Dinah Hubley only knows an unfulfilling life within the walls of a dark and dirty Chicago brothel. Unwilling to forfeit her future to prostitution, Dinah escapes her unfortunate childhood home to pursue her dream of becoming a well-respected waitress and accepts a position as a chambermaid in the Clifton Hotel in Florence, Kansas. The Clifton offers a life Dinah never found in Chicago and she diligently works to prove that, upon her eighteenth birthday, she is worthy enough to become a waitress. Yet, despite her hard and honest work, Dinah continues to feel the looming shadow of her shameful past. As memories and nightmares persistently leave her feeling hopeless and worthless, will Dinah ever be able to find the reprieve she so desperately needs?

After reading Kim Vogel Sawyer’s Echoes of Mercy, the opportunity to read and review her Through the Deep Waters seemed too good to pass up. And after finishing the novel, I can say Sawyer does not disappoint. Again, with her genuine characters and well-researched historical backdrop, she creates a truly captivating story. Brimming with the truth of grace, worth and forgiveness, I found this novel reminiscent of Francine River’s Redeeming Love in many ways, while still remaining uniquely enjoyable. Through the Deep Waters is definitely worth reading and I absolutely appreciate receiving a copy of it from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group, with the opportunity to read and honestly review it.

[Bekah · Rating 2 out of 5]

Dinah Hubley didn’t have much of a childhood. Her mother is a prostitute and she grew up in popular Chicago brothel. Her dream is to become one of Harvey’s girls--a well-respected hotel waitress. When a tragedy occurs and her mother dies, Dinah tries to move on from her painful past and becomes a chambermaid at the Clifton Hotel. Amos Ackerman is a chicken farmer who has been the subject of ridicule his entire whole life due to an old injury that gives him a limp. He immediately takes a liking to Dinah--but will they be able to move from their pasts to embrace a beautiful future?

I have kept up with all of Kim Vogel Sawyer’s latest releases ever since reading My Heart Remembers, one of my favorite books. I immediately snatched the chance to read Through the Deep Waters when it came out. As much as I love the author and really wanted to love this book, I thought that it was just ok. Although the premise of the story was interesting and the message was beautiful, I didn’t connect with any of the characters and found myself bored and reading it quickly just so I could finish. However, this book did have a good message. It shows that matter what you have done in your life or how broken you are, you can find peace and healing through Christ. I thought it had a nice ending as well.

To sum up, Through the Deep Waters had a touching story, sweet romance, and a powerful message. Unfortunately it didn’t quite hold my attention. If you enjoy uplifting historical novels, then I recommend you try out this book.

**I received this book for free from Blogging for Books for this review.

[Alyssa · Rating 5 out of 5]

{About the Book}

Born to an unloving prostitute in a popular Chicago brothel, timid seventeen-year-old Dinah Hubley was raised amidst the secrets held in every dark, grimy room of her home. Anxious to escape, Dinah pursues her dream of becoming a Harvey Girl, waiting tables along the railroad in an upscale hotel. But when she finds out she isn't old enough, her only option is to accept a job as a chambermaid at the Clifton Hotel in Florence, Kansas. Eager to put everything behind her, Dinah feels more worthless than ever, based on a single horrible decision she made to survive.




{My Review}

5 Stars!!

Dinah Hubley, the seventeen year old daughter of a prostitute in Chicago, was raised in conditions no child should have to be involved in. Dinah escapes to fulfill her dreams of becoming a Harvey Girl. But when Dinah discovers she is too young to become a Harvey Girl, she accepts a job as a chambermaid at the Clifton Hotel. Dinah feels worthless, more so than she ever has before. However, she finds out in God's eyes she is a beautiful child of God.

Kim Vogel Sawyer has done it again. A novel full of redemption and letting go of your past to fulfill the future God has for you! This is not by any means a light read, or something to read in an afternoon and then put it down and never think about it again. This book and it's message will stay with you. Highly recommended!!!

[Rhonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

"After easing onto the edge of the bed, Dinah clutched her hands together and whispered, 'You.' She swallowed. 'I know you're sick, Ma.' Tori's face pinched into a horrible grimace. 'I told her not to say nothin' to you. An'don't call me Ma.'"
Through the Deep Waters truly touched a deep cord in my heart as I read it. It reminded me of the woman caught in sin in the Bible and Jesus asked the one without sin to cast the first stone at her. Dinah's life was born out of a sin-filled and sad life....she is the unwanted, unloved daughter of a prostitute who gave up her innocence to allow her mother to live her final days in peace and with some dignity. Yet she is plagued with guilt and nightmares. She certainly suffers PTSD although it is not called by that name. She wants to make a better life for herself and finds work at the Clifton Hotel as a chambermaid. The work doesn't sound very glamourous but it is in fact a job with great respect and honor attached to it. Will she realize her dream of becoming one of the "Harvey Girls"? Will she be able to get over the guilt and the nightmares? And what will happen with the crippled chicken farmer, Amos, who finds he simply can not stop thinking about her? This novel is one of forgiveness and second chances. 5 Stars *****
I received a free copy of this book from bloggingforbooks in exchange for my honest review.

[Chris C - A Midlife Wife · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

The past books that I have read by Kim Vogel Sawyer, What Once Was Lost and Echoes of Mercy, have all been very well written, entertaining and hard to put down so it was with great excitement that I was able to read her newest publication. This book takes on a serious issue that was present in the late 1800′s when women had to find work but being a woman was your first mark against you.

Dinah had a tough life growing up as a child of a prostitute and this book looks at the life that women in that time had scratch out. Luckily for Dinah, she was able to secure a good job with a well known establishment and became a Harvey Girl. As you read the story of this young girl, I kept saying to myself that I am so lucky I was born in the time that I was. Women had it so hard – working from dawn to dusk with 1 hour a week off. I could not do that.

Sawyer takes us though several years with Dinah as she learns about friendship, working, Christ and men, all the while trying to not become like her mother. It is an eye opening read, with a few places that are surprising in the choices that she makes. While there is one section that can be difficult to read for some, overall the book is wonderfully entertaining, extremely well written with a historical twist that will keep you turning those pages.

[Lynne Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner for this author! I have loved every book she has written! Kim Vogel Sawyer has a way of making her characters come to life that makes the reader feel like these are personal friends by the end of the book. This book, told from 3 different viewpoints, is no exception. I felt like they were all friends of mine and I was rooting for each one of them to succeed.

Dinah was soiled, through no fault of her own, Amos had a handicap, through no fault of his own, and Ruthie was the preachers kid, through no fault of her own. Together they have one common thread - dreams. Apart 2 of them know the love of God and 1 is searching. Can they all find the common thread of Gods love and forgiveness for their human shortcomings? Can they all find happiness on whichever road God chooses for them? Will they ever feel "good enough?" With God all things are possible and He will make a way if it is in His plan as they all find out.

I highly recommend this book and all of Ms. Sawyers books. You will not be disappointed!

[Zelma · Rating 5 out of 5]

This by far is my favorite book by Kim Sawyer. The subject matter is a bit hard to read, in the beginning. BUT stick with it. It has such a wonderful message of Love, Strength, and a deep longing to become something more.

Dinah grew up in a whore house. Her mom hid her away, She was not even allowed to call her mom, MOM. She would lose business that way. Dinah had a deep respect for the cook, and he loved her too. What she needed more than anything was a desire to be loved. Then when her mom took sick, something terrible happened. She was able to leave and start a new life as a Harvey girl.

There she goes on a path of self discovery, friendship, and possibility of love. What would people do when they found out where she grew up? Would they shun her and fire her. Or would they love her. This is a charming story with a very strong message, I feel will touch the hearts of so many who have been hurt in the way Dinah has. If her heart can be mended so can Yours.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Through the Deep Waters is probably the most heart wrenching of Kim Vogel Sawyer’s novels. Within the first couple of chapters, I found myself grabbing the tissues and kept turning the pages to see what happens next. Many women who ever been in the character Dinah’s situation, need to read this book. I found it to be comforting and really soothing to my mind, body, and soul. Anyone who wants to read a novel with a powerful message that stays with you, then you have got to pick this one up.
This novel reminds me why Kim Vogel Sawyer has been my favorite author the last few years when I discovered her. Well done, Kim!
I highly highly recommend this novel. I believe it will be my favorite book for this year, if not of all time.
5 and many more stars.

[Pam Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dinah has made mistakes in her past, but she is determined to change her future. She soon realizes, that her past will always be with her and nothing that she can do will change that. But there is One who CAN change the hold Dinah's past has on her. And in doing so, her future has great possibility!

This is a beautiful story of grace and forgiveness! The characters are rich and interesting! The setting was perfect and I cant wait to read another book by Kim Vogel Sawyer! I would recommend this book to any of my friends! It was not only entertaining, but also informative and uplifting! LOVED it!!

[Des · Rating 5 out of 5]

Through the deep waters, God is good. It is inspiring how Dinah, amidst her dark past, has found grace and favor in her search of new beginnings. A fairytale for her indeed and a revelation of God's love for everyone else in the story too.

[Bekah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read a super positive review of this book a few months ago and new I wanted to read it. I’ve never been disappointed by a book by this author and this one was no exception.

What I Liked: This book was definitely a bit of a different pace for me since reading so many suspense books, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Sometimes it good to read a slower paced book where the characters are well formed and you can take your time getting to know them over the space of the book. Plus, when the book has a strong, deep Christian message included, I’m almost certain to enjoy it!

Dinah Hubley was a character that I loved and also disliked because of her behavior. I kept having to remind myself WHY she was acting like she was and that it was realistic because of everything she had been through. (Most of my frustration with her came because she wasn’t at least being pleasant to Ruthie, who was my favorite character throughout this book.)

Dinah and Amos’ relationship was sweet and made me feel all giddy inside for them as Amos was able to crack Dinah’s wall that she had erected around her heart. I was rooting for the both of them throughout this book and the immense challenges they faced throughout the book had me rooting them on all the more. Towards the latter half of the book I grew frustrated with Amos, but I knew he was about to learn a big lesson and it was neat to see both of them grow in character and spiritual growth.

Ruthie was my favorite character in this book…I related to her SOOO much! She desperately wanted something—and that something was Amos Ackerman’s romantic interest, and when she was constantly rebuffed because of Dinah, my heart hurt for her as she fought against jealously and trying to do the right thing. We all struggle with jealousy at times and then having to choose to do the right thing and I am no exception. Ruthie wasn’t perfect and made mistakes and had plenty of wrong attitudes, but she dealt with them and always sought to do the right thing—even when Dinah was outwardly rude to her. (I truly did understand Dinah’s reasoning with keeping to herself and in so doing appearing rude, but I felt for Ruthie as she kept trying to be nice and her attempts weren’t met with kindness time after time. It was also a good reminder to me to choose kindness always, regardless of how other people act, because I don’t know what someone else is going through.)

What I Didn’t Like: There wasn’t really anything that I disliked. There was one scene that I thought didn’t need quite as much detail, but I know the author was trying to portray the horrors of prostitution. With that being said, I would only recommend this book to ages 18+ and if you think you might be uncomfortable with some themes in this book, to wait until you’re married. 

I give this book 5/5 stars for another excellent, thought-provoking read by Kim Vogel Sawyer!

[Joleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

How can a book be so hard to read, yet so beautiful?

By what one character had to live with, then trying to get over it by pushing it as deep as possible, we get a sense of what God has to wade through to get a person to see His love and His desire to heal their brokenness. How He desires for them to see what happened to them, to see bad choices for what they were, then to free their guilt or ill-treatment with His grace and forgiveness. But coming to Him with the hurt, with the hardship and the sin to find freedom is what is necessary. Healing is painful, but not impossible.

Faith.
Faith that He is waiting.
Faith that what seems impossible is what brings Him glory as a humble heart reaches out for a Savior.

The biblical story of Dinah is one our main character, also named Dinah, finds all too familiar. Now as her heart is trying to understand this God who loves her, a roommate who tries to befriend her, and Amos who desires to get to know her, walls begin to crumble.

Great book with a very hard start, and rough times in between until the deep waters recede and the glory of God's plans are made evident.

A preteen might find the event early in the book to be a rough read. But there are some great lessons inside and wonderful writing. Ms. Sawyer is a master of bringing to light the scripture in story form with clear salvation messages and storylines that grip your heart and make you love God all the more.

[MaryJo Dawson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this inspirational historical fiction; many fans of the genre would love it.
The main character has no assets when it comes to family, environment, or social standing. Her strengths lie in her personality, intelligence, and - although she doesn't realize it - pleasing looks. Her only encouragement comes from the cook in the kitchen of the brothel, a man who gives her the push she needs to escape what she was born into.
Indeed becoming a Harvey girl after Fred Harvey opened up his chain of restaurants in the late 19th century along the railroad lines heading west was a wonderful opportunity for young woman of that day. This was a goal Dinah could realistically aspire to; as long as no one learns of her shameful past and a desperate decision she made as a very young woman that took away the one thing she thought she had to offer.
The supporting characters are largely people of strong Christian faith who open up the possibility to this very wounded young lady that she is really worth something.
It is fairly predicable but Sawyer is a good writer and puts enough bumps along the way to make it a relaxing and enjoyable read for many.

[Traci · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a devastatingly beautiful story highlighting the lives of three people who are searching for a savior by means of circumstances and/or people. The author has a keen ability to convey the very real emotions and thought processes of the main characters - evoking empathy and understanding in the reader. Through journeys that are sometimes sweet, and sometimes heart-wrenching, the main characters realize their worth in Christ, and that He is the only one, true, Savior.

[Jessica · Rating 2 out of 5]

I thought I would like this book. And I tried to like it, I really did. I like lots of Christian romance, so I thought I’d give this one a go. But it was SO heavy handed, and some of the characters like Amos were so sanctimonious that I started kind of rooting against them. And therefore I got halfway through the book and decided I needed to stop ... I scanned to the end to see if I missed anything important. I didn’t. So it was predictable too 😕😕

[Darla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once in a while, you come across a book you just can’t put down. This was one of those. From the moment I read about this unloved child being raised in a brothel, it caught my attention. So hard to imagine! My heart went out to this fictional character, but knowing g there are children everywhere who have lost their innocence through no fault of their own.