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The Cadence of Grace #1
Be Still My Soul
Night’s chill tickled her skin. Lonnie pressed her hands together and glanced up. He was even more handsome up close. Having grown up the shy, awkward daughter of Joel Sawyer, she’d hardly spoken to any boy, let alone the one who had mothers whispering warnings in their daughter’s ears and fathers loading shotguns.
Pretty Lonnie Sawyer is shy and innocent, used to fading into the background within her family, and among the creeks and hollows of the Appalachian hills. Though her family is poor and her father abusive, she clings to a quiet faith. But when handsome ladies’ man and bluegrass musician Gideon O’Riley steals a kiss, that one action seals her fate.
Her father forces her into a hasty marriage with Gideon—a man she barely knows and does not love. Equally frustrated and confused by his new responsibilities, Gideon yearns for a fresh start, forcing Lonnie on an arduous journey away from her home in Rocky Knob.
Her distant groom can’t seem to surrender his rage at the injustice of the forced matrimony or give Lonnie any claim in his life. What will it take for Gideon to give up his past, embrace Lonnie’s God, and discover a hope that can heal their two fractured hearts?
Gideon only ever cared about himself. Now that Lonnie is his wife, will he ever be worthy of her heart?
Pretty Lonnie Sawyer is shy and innocent, used to fading into the background within her family, and among the creeks and hollows of the Appalachian hills. Though her family is poor and her father abusive, she clings to a quiet faith. But when handsome ladies’ man and bluegrass musician Gideon O’Riley steals a kiss, that one action seals her fate.
Her father forces her into a hasty marriage with Gideon—a man she barely knows and does not love. Equally frustrated and confused by his new responsibilities, Gideon yearns for a fresh start, forcing Lonnie on an arduous journey away from her home in Rocky Knob.
Her distant groom can’t seem to surrender his rage at the injustice of the forced matrimony or give Lonnie any claim in his life. What will it take for Gideon to give up his past, embrace Lonnie’s God, and discover a hope that can heal their two fractured hearts?
Gideon only ever cared about himself. Now that Lonnie is his wife, will he ever be worthy of her heart?
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2012
118 people are currently reading
2242 people want to read
About the author
Joanne Bischof
19 books1,297 followersAn ECPA Christy Award winner and an ACFW Carol Award winner, Joanne Bischof DeWitt writes deeply layered fiction that tugs at the reader’s heartstrings. Joanne’s 2016 novel, THE LADY AND THE LIONHEART, received an extraordinary 5 Star TOP PICK! from Romantic Times Book Reviews among other critical acclaim.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 266 reviews
August 26, 2016
A kiss from Gideon O’Riley radically changes Lonnie Sawyer’s life. Forced by her father to marry the guy, Lonnie will find herself sharing her existence with a man that does not love her or does not respect her, but she will never give up the hope that someday he may change and make her happy.
“Be Still My Soul” is one of the saddest books I have ever read! And I am sorry to say this because I had high hopes for this story. By reading the description I thought that the disagreements between the protagonists would be solved more quickly and without all that angst that instead I found abundant in almost every page of this novel.
The basic idea was interesting -Gideon’s change and his acknowledgement of God’s plan for him- but I hoped there would not be all those choices and actions that made me despise the male protagonist since the beginning. Gideon does not love Lonnie when he marries her. Their marriage is the consequence of a compromising situation that needs to be fixed and both of them are not happy of that, but this does not allow him to behave in a disrespectful -and definitely not at all nice- way. For the most part of the book he treats Lonnie very badly, as if he wanted to blame her for the situation they are living (when, actually, Lonnie is, in my opinion, the only person who suffers the consequences of other people’s actions). Gideon does not show any kind of affection for his wife and he never fails to let her know his feelings through caustic words and deplorable actions. Even though in rare moments he seems to feel guilty, this does not stop him from having a kind of attitude that does not suit a man. Basically, Lonnie has her eyes filled with tears in every chapter!
Contrary to Gideon, Lonnie, even though she is not in love when she gets married, feels that their union could give her something good anyway, something positive. So she tenaciously endures her husband’s behaviour because she thinks that there is a project for her made by God that wants her to live those experiences. I admired her constancy and fortitude but, at the same time, I could not understand how she could stand all the pain that Gideon caused to her heart. I know that, being this a novel set at the beginning of the 1900s, women’s life was rather complicated, but I would have liked Lonnie to react earlier not almost at the end of the book!
I struggled to reach the end of this story and, though I did not put the idea of reading the other two books in this series completely aside, I think that I will get to other reads for now. Though many readers thought that Gideon deserved their affection in the end, I could not love this character and I am not really curious to see what will happen in his future and in his family’s. Anyway, I recommend “Be Still My Soul” to those who love stories of redemption despite the hero is completely to blame.
“Be Still My Soul” is one of the saddest books I have ever read! And I am sorry to say this because I had high hopes for this story. By reading the description I thought that the disagreements between the protagonists would be solved more quickly and without all that angst that instead I found abundant in almost every page of this novel.
The basic idea was interesting -Gideon’s change and his acknowledgement of God’s plan for him- but I hoped there would not be all those choices and actions that made me despise the male protagonist since the beginning. Gideon does not love Lonnie when he marries her. Their marriage is the consequence of a compromising situation that needs to be fixed and both of them are not happy of that, but this does not allow him to behave in a disrespectful -and definitely not at all nice- way. For the most part of the book he treats Lonnie very badly, as if he wanted to blame her for the situation they are living (when, actually, Lonnie is, in my opinion, the only person who suffers the consequences of other people’s actions). Gideon does not show any kind of affection for his wife and he never fails to let her know his feelings through caustic words and deplorable actions. Even though in rare moments he seems to feel guilty, this does not stop him from having a kind of attitude that does not suit a man. Basically, Lonnie has her eyes filled with tears in every chapter!
Contrary to Gideon, Lonnie, even though she is not in love when she gets married, feels that their union could give her something good anyway, something positive. So she tenaciously endures her husband’s behaviour because she thinks that there is a project for her made by God that wants her to live those experiences. I admired her constancy and fortitude but, at the same time, I could not understand how she could stand all the pain that Gideon caused to her heart. I know that, being this a novel set at the beginning of the 1900s, women’s life was rather complicated, but I would have liked Lonnie to react earlier not almost at the end of the book!
I struggled to reach the end of this story and, though I did not put the idea of reading the other two books in this series completely aside, I think that I will get to other reads for now. Though many readers thought that Gideon deserved their affection in the end, I could not love this character and I am not really curious to see what will happen in his future and in his family’s. Anyway, I recommend “Be Still My Soul” to those who love stories of redemption despite the hero is completely to blame.
August 12, 2012
It’s a mountain romance with a very interesting twist…because technically the reader isn’t inclined to like the hero.
How do you enjoy reading a romance where the hero is completely unlikeable? Surprisingly enough, that is exactly what I did: greatly enjoyed this novel. It’s an unconventional romance, but one the reader is aware of when they start the book. Honesty with the reader is so key in a novel where the norm is far from the expected and it kept me from becoming overly frustrated with this young man.
The plot is one reason I loved the novel so much. The unexpected takes an ordinary setting, a tried and true plot and crafts it captivating.
“Be Still My Soul” is a quick read, but a fulfilling one. The Blue Ridge Mountains make for a great backdrop for our characters struggles, contributing to their hardship, but also how they handle them. And I loved these characters. I know, I know a hero you can’t like, you ask? Read the book, I promise you’ll find something in Gideon to love, I know I did. By the end of the last page, I held every confidence in this young couple. That to me, is writing at some of its finest. Take a character you can’t love and believably change them before the end of the novel…? You’ll have to read the book to see for yourself. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the author for my advance copy to review.
How do you enjoy reading a romance where the hero is completely unlikeable? Surprisingly enough, that is exactly what I did: greatly enjoyed this novel. It’s an unconventional romance, but one the reader is aware of when they start the book. Honesty with the reader is so key in a novel where the norm is far from the expected and it kept me from becoming overly frustrated with this young man.
The plot is one reason I loved the novel so much. The unexpected takes an ordinary setting, a tried and true plot and crafts it captivating.
“Be Still My Soul” is a quick read, but a fulfilling one. The Blue Ridge Mountains make for a great backdrop for our characters struggles, contributing to their hardship, but also how they handle them. And I loved these characters. I know, I know a hero you can’t like, you ask? Read the book, I promise you’ll find something in Gideon to love, I know I did. By the end of the last page, I held every confidence in this young couple. That to me, is writing at some of its finest. Take a character you can’t love and believably change them before the end of the novel…? You’ll have to read the book to see for yourself. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the author for my advance copy to review.
August 14, 2018
My goodness, Joanne Bischof. You certainly know how to rip a person's heart out, don't you?
This story was P O W E R F U L. It dealt with hard topics like addiction, abuse, regret, and bitterness. It made me cry multiple times and pierced my heart straight through. It hurt to read this, and I honestly didn't know if I could finish it due to the despicable way Lonnie was treated in the beginning. And yet . . . somehow, Joanne took that pain and transformed it into something beautiful and meaningful.
Honestly, I loathed Gideon for the first half of the book. I didn't see how he could ever redeem himself after the things he did. (Like seriously, I had a MAJOR case of righteous anger.) But believe it or not, Joanne did the impossible: she made me root for his redemption.
He completely changed, and my heart towards him completely changed as well. I mean . . . this is a FEAT. Once my mind is made up on a character, it's rare that I will change my mind about them so dramatically. BUT THIS BOOK DID IT. And that's a sign of an amazing & powerful story.
As usual, the themes and characters and setting are so vivid & tangible. Joanne Bischof knows how to tug your heartstrings. She makes you fall in love with the world she paints and the characters she molds. I will forever count her as one of my favorite authors. Her stories touch my soul in a way very few books can. <3
I will say, I have a few qualms about this book that keep me from rating it five stars. For one, I noticed the writing was weaker in this one. It didn't have the magic and richness of her later works, which is understandable since it's her very first novel. As I mentioned earlier, I also spent a significant portion of the book loathing one of the main characters so that made it harder to enjoy the book. The plot also seemed fairly simplistic, without very many plot twists at all. (It works for the story, but it did make this story less interesting than the other ones of hers that I've read.)
All in all - a heartrending, soul-fulfilling novel that will stick with me for a long time. <3
4 stars!
This story was P O W E R F U L. It dealt with hard topics like addiction, abuse, regret, and bitterness. It made me cry multiple times and pierced my heart straight through. It hurt to read this, and I honestly didn't know if I could finish it due to the despicable way Lonnie was treated in the beginning. And yet . . . somehow, Joanne took that pain and transformed it into something beautiful and meaningful.
Honestly, I loathed Gideon for the first half of the book. I didn't see how he could ever redeem himself after the things he did. (Like seriously, I had a MAJOR case of righteous anger.) But believe it or not, Joanne did the impossible: she made me root for his redemption.
He completely changed, and my heart towards him completely changed as well. I mean . . . this is a FEAT. Once my mind is made up on a character, it's rare that I will change my mind about them so dramatically. BUT THIS BOOK DID IT. And that's a sign of an amazing & powerful story.
As usual, the themes and characters and setting are so vivid & tangible. Joanne Bischof knows how to tug your heartstrings. She makes you fall in love with the world she paints and the characters she molds. I will forever count her as one of my favorite authors. Her stories touch my soul in a way very few books can. <3
I will say, I have a few qualms about this book that keep me from rating it five stars. For one, I noticed the writing was weaker in this one. It didn't have the magic and richness of her later works, which is understandable since it's her very first novel. As I mentioned earlier, I also spent a significant portion of the book loathing one of the main characters so that made it harder to enjoy the book. The plot also seemed fairly simplistic, without very many plot twists at all. (It works for the story, but it did make this story less interesting than the other ones of hers that I've read.)
All in all - a heartrending, soul-fulfilling novel that will stick with me for a long time. <3
4 stars!
November 22, 2015
Though not the typical historical romance, Be Still My Soul certainly earns its place. It was really, really good… sad, unfair, tragic… yes, but with little, unexpected joys and redemption still fighting to wash over everyone.
Lonnie, a likable, sweet and shy person. Gideon... not so much. And when they’re forced to marry because of Gideon’s forced kiss, things go from bad to worse. Lonnie wonders why she’s stuck in such a marriage; Gideon wishes he didn’t have her as a wife. And he proves himself to be an abusive and untrustworthy husband. Until they meet a kind couple, who take care of Lonnie and urge Gideon to become a man and cherish his wife. However, twisted happenings and unexpected sorrows continue to threaten to tear apart the young couple.
Such an emotional and heart-rending novel… It stirs the soul. Sadness and anger truly make the happy moments filled with ever so much more joy. I cannot wait for the sequel!!
Lonnie, a likable, sweet and shy person. Gideon... not so much. And when they’re forced to marry because of Gideon’s forced kiss, things go from bad to worse. Lonnie wonders why she’s stuck in such a marriage; Gideon wishes he didn’t have her as a wife. And he proves himself to be an abusive and untrustworthy husband. Until they meet a kind couple, who take care of Lonnie and urge Gideon to become a man and cherish his wife. However, twisted happenings and unexpected sorrows continue to threaten to tear apart the young couple.
Such an emotional and heart-rending novel… It stirs the soul. Sadness and anger truly make the happy moments filled with ever so much more joy. I cannot wait for the sequel!!
September 10, 2012
Setting: Think Catherine Marshall's "Christy". I mean, it's not really the same, but that feeling of the backwoods life in the Appalachian mountains is there. The culture, the suspicions, the bootlegging, the abuse, the hardness, and the bitterness caused from a hard life ... it's ALL THERE!
Romance: There are no butterflies in this book. In fact, Joanne masterfully makes you really not like the hero while at the same time, you hope for his redemption.. He's actually a jerk. A likeable jerk. I don't know HOW you did it, Joanne! And Lonnie ... what a sweet, victimized heroine who's gutsy one-liners make you cheer even while Lonnie delivers them with spit and sass and then ducks away like an abused little puppy.
Plot: Survival. Unwanted pregnacy. Betrayel. Need. Loss. It's all there. Joanne's story made me cry in parts -- it hit too close to home in one spot. It made me want to left-hook the hero and Lonnie's father. It made me smile in moments of hope.
Message: It's there in spades. What I loved about this novel was the fact that the heroine held fast to her faith and she didn't get relief from her troubles, but waded through the mire finding rest -- uneasy rest -- but the kind of rest that comes from a faith that God will guide us through.
Romance: There are no butterflies in this book. In fact, Joanne masterfully makes you really not like the hero while at the same time, you hope for his redemption.. He's actually a jerk. A likeable jerk. I don't know HOW you did it, Joanne! And Lonnie ... what a sweet, victimized heroine who's gutsy one-liners make you cheer even while Lonnie delivers them with spit and sass and then ducks away like an abused little puppy.
Plot: Survival. Unwanted pregnacy. Betrayel. Need. Loss. It's all there. Joanne's story made me cry in parts -- it hit too close to home in one spot. It made me want to left-hook the hero and Lonnie's father. It made me smile in moments of hope.
Message: It's there in spades. What I loved about this novel was the fact that the heroine held fast to her faith and she didn't get relief from her troubles, but waded through the mire finding rest -- uneasy rest -- but the kind of rest that comes from a faith that God will guide us through.
September 2, 2012
Have you ever read a book that was just so good that you hesitate to start another, because you know that the next has a high bar to meet? Well, that's how I feel after reading Joanne Bischof's Be Still My Soul.
Lonnie Sawyer is a quiet girl, raised in the mountains. When her father sees her with Gideon O'Riley he forces them to marry, though that is that last thing that either of them wants. Gideon resents Lonnie for putting him in this tough spot. Can God mend the seams of a relationship broken from the start?
Ms. Bischof has a beautiful writing style that has a sort of lilting smoothness to it, that breathes life into her storytelling. What I loved about this tale was how it was gritty and realistic, set in the Appalachian Mountains. Lonnie and Gideon's lot is hard, and they are both tested by how they choose to deal with the situation they were thrown into.
What was interesting was how from the first I strongly dislike Gideon, he was far from the kind of hero that you usually read about. Yet he grew throughout the course of the book, and by some miracle I went from despising him to cheering for him. I just loved the characters of Elsie and Jebediah, especially Jeb, who was a strong father figure and stood up for what was right. All of the characters were so strong.
This tale is one of heartache and pain, and about hope coming when it seems like all hope is lost. Yet it was a sort of coming of age tale too.
Overall all this book is engaging, and paced steadily to keep the pages flying by. As I said above, I just loved Ms. Bischof's writing style, and her descriptions that took me there. Be Still My Soul is a beautiful, heartfelt tale of forgiveness and starting over, with deep characters and a stunning mountain setting.
Much thanks to Joanne Bischof and Multnomah Publishers for providing me with a complimentary review copy of this book :) Thank you!
Lonnie Sawyer is a quiet girl, raised in the mountains. When her father sees her with Gideon O'Riley he forces them to marry, though that is that last thing that either of them wants. Gideon resents Lonnie for putting him in this tough spot. Can God mend the seams of a relationship broken from the start?
Ms. Bischof has a beautiful writing style that has a sort of lilting smoothness to it, that breathes life into her storytelling. What I loved about this tale was how it was gritty and realistic, set in the Appalachian Mountains. Lonnie and Gideon's lot is hard, and they are both tested by how they choose to deal with the situation they were thrown into.
What was interesting was how from the first I strongly dislike Gideon, he was far from the kind of hero that you usually read about. Yet he grew throughout the course of the book, and by some miracle I went from despising him to cheering for him. I just loved the characters of Elsie and Jebediah, especially Jeb, who was a strong father figure and stood up for what was right. All of the characters were so strong.
This tale is one of heartache and pain, and about hope coming when it seems like all hope is lost. Yet it was a sort of coming of age tale too.
Overall all this book is engaging, and paced steadily to keep the pages flying by. As I said above, I just loved Ms. Bischof's writing style, and her descriptions that took me there. Be Still My Soul is a beautiful, heartfelt tale of forgiveness and starting over, with deep characters and a stunning mountain setting.
Much thanks to Joanne Bischof and Multnomah Publishers for providing me with a complimentary review copy of this book :) Thank you!
February 5, 2013
Gideon walks Lonnie home one night and steals a kiss. When her father sees it and believes the worst, Gideon and Lonnie are forced into a marriage neither of them want. Set in the Blue Ridge Mountains, “Be Still My Soul” is a story about learning to live with shattered dreams and costly mistakes, and finding the strength to forgive, love and hope again.
Gideon was more villain than hero throughout most of the book, and I confess, I was tempted to put it down. I didn’t see how Bischof could possibly change my mind about him by the end. But she did. To my amazement, I was cheering for him in the last quarter of the book! And that is mark of great writing—the ability to take a despicable character and turn him around in 350 pages. Wow. I loved the layers in Gideon’s character. An overgrown boy with an immature outlook on life, but a hard worker; a selfish man who adopts a victim mentality in order to suppress his conscience; and an addict battling destructive demons.
I think the reason I didn't really get into the romance was because I disliked Gideon for the majority of the book, certainly not because the author doesn't deliver a romance worth reading. I loved how Bischof took me to the Blue Ridge Mountains so that I could experience the white morning fog, crisp air, and steep forest climbs instead of just reading about it. ;-) Seriously, the author's beautiful prose and colorful descriptions were fantastic.
This book is not for those looking for a fun, light read. Gritty and life-like, it addresses abusive relationships and alcoholism, and packs a hefty emotional punch. Seriously, I cried, and I don’t usually cry over books. I would recommend it to readers who love stories that spotlight character growth and historic, way-of-life details, and are unafraid to give an unconventional "hero"a chance. :-) Beautiful story, and I am looking forward to continuing Lonnie and Gideon's story in the sequel.
Gideon was more villain than hero throughout most of the book, and I confess, I was tempted to put it down. I didn’t see how Bischof could possibly change my mind about him by the end. But she did. To my amazement, I was cheering for him in the last quarter of the book! And that is mark of great writing—the ability to take a despicable character and turn him around in 350 pages. Wow. I loved the layers in Gideon’s character. An overgrown boy with an immature outlook on life, but a hard worker; a selfish man who adopts a victim mentality in order to suppress his conscience; and an addict battling destructive demons.
I think the reason I didn't really get into the romance was because I disliked Gideon for the majority of the book, certainly not because the author doesn't deliver a romance worth reading. I loved how Bischof took me to the Blue Ridge Mountains so that I could experience the white morning fog, crisp air, and steep forest climbs instead of just reading about it. ;-) Seriously, the author's beautiful prose and colorful descriptions were fantastic.
This book is not for those looking for a fun, light read. Gritty and life-like, it addresses abusive relationships and alcoholism, and packs a hefty emotional punch. Seriously, I cried, and I don’t usually cry over books. I would recommend it to readers who love stories that spotlight character growth and historic, way-of-life details, and are unafraid to give an unconventional "hero"a chance. :-) Beautiful story, and I am looking forward to continuing Lonnie and Gideon's story in the sequel.
August 21, 2015
I have had my eye on this book (and the series) for a long time. So when I won the series in the giveaway, I was super excited!
I believe this is one of the strongest debut novels I have ever read! Bischof has a beautiful writing style. It’s simple but poetic, and I love that! I believe it fits the feel of the story perfectly.
I really liked Lonnie’s character a lot. She had a sweet and innocent way about her. When Gideon didn’t treat her right, she still kept that innocent spirit. Lonnie was probably my favorite character, and I loved being inside of her head!
It took me awhile to read this book because I wanted to savor it. I took every couple of chapters and chewed on them. I turned them over in my mind, and studied the sentence structure and the beautifully descriptive words. It was a pleasure to read slowly and savor every word.
I thought it was a brave move on Bischof’s part to make the hero unlikable for most of the book. It really worked with this story, and it definitely fought the “insta-love” stigma that surrounds Christian fiction.
The plot I found to be a teensy bit slow—I’m pretty sure that it was the story being in one main setting for 80% of the book. But I quickly adjusted and the story moved quicker for me.
I would say that if you love beautiful stories; you will love Be Still My Soul! I gave this book 4/5 stars. I highly recommend it!
If you would like to read more of my reviews, check out my blog: http://www.kelvreadsbooks.blog.com
*I was not sent this by the publisher or author for the purpose of this review. I won this novel in a giveaway. All opinions are my own. I was in no way compensated for this review.
I believe this is one of the strongest debut novels I have ever read! Bischof has a beautiful writing style. It’s simple but poetic, and I love that! I believe it fits the feel of the story perfectly.
I really liked Lonnie’s character a lot. She had a sweet and innocent way about her. When Gideon didn’t treat her right, she still kept that innocent spirit. Lonnie was probably my favorite character, and I loved being inside of her head!
It took me awhile to read this book because I wanted to savor it. I took every couple of chapters and chewed on them. I turned them over in my mind, and studied the sentence structure and the beautifully descriptive words. It was a pleasure to read slowly and savor every word.
I thought it was a brave move on Bischof’s part to make the hero unlikable for most of the book. It really worked with this story, and it definitely fought the “insta-love” stigma that surrounds Christian fiction.
The plot I found to be a teensy bit slow—I’m pretty sure that it was the story being in one main setting for 80% of the book. But I quickly adjusted and the story moved quicker for me.
I would say that if you love beautiful stories; you will love Be Still My Soul! I gave this book 4/5 stars. I highly recommend it!
If you would like to read more of my reviews, check out my blog: http://www.kelvreadsbooks.blog.com
*I was not sent this by the publisher or author for the purpose of this review. I won this novel in a giveaway. All opinions are my own. I was in no way compensated for this review.
September 24, 2021
Lonnie Sawyer is pretty, innocent, shy and faith filled. At 17, she has grown up in a poor family with an abusive father (especially to her) in the hills of Appalachia. When a handsome young bluegrass musician walks her home at the request of her brother then steal a kiss from her which her father viewed, Lonnie and Gideon are forced into a marriage. They barely know each other and are polar opposites. Gideon demands they set out on their own where he can find a good job in a bigger town, but problems beset them from the beginning until they are finally rescued by a wonderful, older couple, Mr. and Mrs. Bennett. Will the Bennetts help this young couple become a true family or will Gideon's anger at being forced into marriage tear them apart.
I really enjoyed seeing both Lonnie and Gideon come into their own as the grew and changed both in their attitudes and their faith under the tutelage of this amazing couple who mentored them as if they were their own. The surprise ending was a delight.
I really enjoyed seeing both Lonnie and Gideon come into their own as the grew and changed both in their attitudes and their faith under the tutelage of this amazing couple who mentored them as if they were their own. The surprise ending was a delight.
July 6, 2013
What an amazing story of forgiveness and love! Lonnie and Gideon find themselves trapped in a loveless, shotgun wedding. After living a life of abuse under her father's hand, sweet Lonnie hopes that Gideon will someday be able to love her. However, Gideon resents being bound to Lonnie and his anger grows and grows. This story has everything. There are highs and lows inside a marriage that binds two people together. There is hurt, anger, grief and despair. And finally, there is forgiveness, hope and love. Watching Gideon's growth throughout the book is captivating. And in watching Lonnie forgive him time and again, God's grace is apparent. The author has a beautiful writing style that truly makes her characters come to life with depth and realism. I loved this book!
January 20, 2013
I've followed the buzz about Joanne Bischof's debut novel and was also intrigued by the plot. Once I picked it up, her writing pulled me into the story and I finished Be Still My Soul in two days. I appreciated Bischof's fresh word pictures and how they fit with the setting of her novel, while revealing the personalities of her characters. I'm looking forward to reading more of her books!
December 10, 2020
This book was okay! I ... found it a bit difficult to follow, honestly, and it went on without what seemed like a set character arc. That said, I think it was a good story! I enjoyed it, but I wasn't super driven to read the rest of the series despite the cliffhanger.
July 19, 2018
*cries happy tears* RTC!
September 22, 2020
This book could very well be the best book I’ll read this year. It’s truly remarkable. My review can’t even do justice to this beautiful work of fiction.
The setting is simple enough - the heart of the story is set against the quiet rural Appalachian mountains. As much as I love books with bustling plot lines and settings, its nice every now and then to just sit and enjoy a slower-paced book. One with a simple (yet vividly written!) background where you can really focus on the growth of the characters.
The characters stand out against all other books I’ve ever read, or at least remember reading. Lonnie, a fairly recognizable figure in the world of Christian fiction, is also a character to be admired. Her faith throughout her life is really inspiring to read about as she struggled in her new life with Gideon. Her experiences are not extra-ordinary or uncommon, but the way she is written you really feel everything she feels. I can feel myself relating to her struggles, even though I haven’t experienced what she has on the same level. She doesn’t feel things just one way, which I love since realistically that’s how most people are, too.
As much as I loved reading about Lonnie, Gideon was really the standout for me. He was an incredibly complex character, and how Mrs. Bischof managed to capture that is just brilliant. I really never could find it in myself to really dislike him. Granted, in the beginning he was not the nicest guy, even mean, but not cruel, not a villain. Just troubled. Being able to see his internal struggle I think made me sympathize with him and the new life he was forced into. I loved being able to see the subtle changes in his character as the story progressed. It felt so natural to read about his changing feelings and it was really great to read.
Though part of me just wants to end their story right here after reading the blurbs for the other books, I definitely will be picking up the following books in the series at some point. I just have to see how Lonnie and Gideon end up.
The setting is simple enough - the heart of the story is set against the quiet rural Appalachian mountains. As much as I love books with bustling plot lines and settings, its nice every now and then to just sit and enjoy a slower-paced book. One with a simple (yet vividly written!) background where you can really focus on the growth of the characters.
The characters stand out against all other books I’ve ever read, or at least remember reading. Lonnie, a fairly recognizable figure in the world of Christian fiction, is also a character to be admired. Her faith throughout her life is really inspiring to read about as she struggled in her new life with Gideon. Her experiences are not extra-ordinary or uncommon, but the way she is written you really feel everything she feels. I can feel myself relating to her struggles, even though I haven’t experienced what she has on the same level. She doesn’t feel things just one way, which I love since realistically that’s how most people are, too.
As much as I loved reading about Lonnie, Gideon was really the standout for me. He was an incredibly complex character, and how Mrs. Bischof managed to capture that is just brilliant. I really never could find it in myself to really dislike him. Granted, in the beginning he was not the nicest guy, even mean, but not cruel, not a villain. Just troubled. Being able to see his internal struggle I think made me sympathize with him and the new life he was forced into. I loved being able to see the subtle changes in his character as the story progressed. It felt so natural to read about his changing feelings and it was really great to read.
Though part of me just wants to end their story right here after reading the blurbs for the other books, I definitely will be picking up the following books in the series at some point. I just have to see how Lonnie and Gideon end up.
October 2, 2012
Ohhh, where to start? I loved this book...read it in a day!
First, Gideon. I will be honest and say I had trouble liking the guy at the start of the book. But I think most readers would say the same. Thing is, even in his unlikeable state, something about Joanne Bischof's hero tugs at the reader's heart...and as you get further and further into the story, you find yourself cheering for the man, certain that he can change and live up to the man he's meant to be. I love his journey.
Lonnie was a lovable heroine, as well. She's a sympathetic character straight from the start.
The setting is gorgeous and the author's writing skills bring it to life all through the story.
A wonderful debut from author Joanne Bischof. Can't wait for the next one in the series!
First, Gideon. I will be honest and say I had trouble liking the guy at the start of the book. But I think most readers would say the same. Thing is, even in his unlikeable state, something about Joanne Bischof's hero tugs at the reader's heart...and as you get further and further into the story, you find yourself cheering for the man, certain that he can change and live up to the man he's meant to be. I love his journey.
Lonnie was a lovable heroine, as well. She's a sympathetic character straight from the start.
The setting is gorgeous and the author's writing skills bring it to life all through the story.
A wonderful debut from author Joanne Bischof. Can't wait for the next one in the series!
November 4, 2012
A moving debut! More than just a love story, Be Still My Soul takes compelling characters on a journey of redemption in the dangerous beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Joanne Bischof’s masterful and compassionate insight into human nature won me over. On the surface, Gideon might be one of the most unlikeable heroes ever, but Joanne made me care about him and want him to find his way. That takes talent, and Joanne has it. I can’t wait for the second book in the Cadence of Grace series!
September 3, 2016
Joanne Bischof is a wonderful writer! She had me hooked on page one. This book is hard to put down. There many lessons throughout the book on unconditional love., letting go of hurts, and sheer stubbornness. I am looking forward to reading more books by this author!
April 25, 2024
Es la historia de un joven y accidentado matrimonio y es una novedad que a pesar de ser contado por un narrador independiente enfatiza la lucha y crecimiento del protagonista masculino.
La trama es muy dramática y por cierto como advertencia de contenido (trigger warning - spoiler) menciono que hay bastante violencia familiar relativamente gráfica y también perdida de bebé.
En general se desarrolla bastante rápido y mantiene al lector pegado esperando que se resuelvan las cosas que a veces fue frustrante. Y lo que le bajó puntos fue que el final es algo abrupto.
La trama es muy dramática y por cierto como advertencia de contenido (trigger warning - spoiler) menciono que hay bastante violencia familiar relativamente gráfica y también perdida de bebé.
En general se desarrolla bastante rápido y mantiene al lector pegado esperando que se resuelvan las cosas que a veces fue frustrante. Y lo que le bajó puntos fue que el final es algo abrupto.
September 11, 2012
"Be Still my Soul" is a debut novel by the author, Joanne Bischof. I really wanted to like this book. The cover is beautiful and the storyline seemed like it would be interesting but it fell short of my expectations.
My thoughts and feelings about this book are so conflicted. So much so that I've had trouble putting my thoughts into words and explaining why I feel this book deserved a two star rating.
In terms of expression, this book was very well written aside from just a bit of redundancy in the use of terms or descriptions. It was the story line that truly bugged me about this book. Where I was let down? I expected to pick up this book and read a story of love developing against all odds. Instead what I find is a young girl, Lonnie, traded off to a man she doesn't love. Not only does he not love him...he tried to take advantage of her and she despises him! I know situations like this happened in times of yesteryear, however I find it hard to believe that the character would fall for the man who she despises in such a short period of time.
Lonnie's husband was downright abusive and she played right into falling and swooning for him within what felt like days. Even the symptoms of her pregnancy showed up way too soon. Unrealistically soon...It seems they were only together a week and she was already experiencing nausea and pregnancy symptoms. In terms of abuse and his actions, I felt this was no different than the abusive relationships that are glorified in books like Twilight, in which a young girl falls for a man she shouldn't and instead of the reader being disgusted...you found yourself wishing her into an unhealthy relationship.
I really wanted to like this story but the characters were just not likable...at ALL. I never connected with them. I got tired of hearing Lonnie referred to as "little missy" so much so that I cringed every time it was used, which made me dislike even the decent characters in the story. I disliked Gideon so much that I really hoped his character would be killed - although I knew he wouldn't since Lonnie really had no one else and didn't want anyone else. She was content to be with this abusive scumbag from day two of their marriage it seems.
Did I hate the story...meh, not exactly. It was "okay" but it wasn't the best I've ever read. I don't think I'll be picking up book two anytime in the near future.
I received "Be Still My Soul" as a complimentary gift in exchange for review from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. My comments and opinions are my own.
Although I didn't enjoy this book...I know others that have! You may enjoy it as well. You can read the first chapter of the book here
You can enter to win a copy below.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
My thoughts and feelings about this book are so conflicted. So much so that I've had trouble putting my thoughts into words and explaining why I feel this book deserved a two star rating.
In terms of expression, this book was very well written aside from just a bit of redundancy in the use of terms or descriptions. It was the story line that truly bugged me about this book. Where I was let down? I expected to pick up this book and read a story of love developing against all odds. Instead what I find is a young girl, Lonnie, traded off to a man she doesn't love. Not only does he not love him...he tried to take advantage of her and she despises him! I know situations like this happened in times of yesteryear, however I find it hard to believe that the character would fall for the man who she despises in such a short period of time.
Lonnie's husband was downright abusive and she played right into falling and swooning for him within what felt like days. Even the symptoms of her pregnancy showed up way too soon. Unrealistically soon...It seems they were only together a week and she was already experiencing nausea and pregnancy symptoms. In terms of abuse and his actions, I felt this was no different than the abusive relationships that are glorified in books like Twilight, in which a young girl falls for a man she shouldn't and instead of the reader being disgusted...you found yourself wishing her into an unhealthy relationship.
I really wanted to like this story but the characters were just not likable...at ALL. I never connected with them. I got tired of hearing Lonnie referred to as "little missy" so much so that I cringed every time it was used, which made me dislike even the decent characters in the story. I disliked Gideon so much that I really hoped his character would be killed - although I knew he wouldn't since Lonnie really had no one else and didn't want anyone else. She was content to be with this abusive scumbag from day two of their marriage it seems.
Did I hate the story...meh, not exactly. It was "okay" but it wasn't the best I've ever read. I don't think I'll be picking up book two anytime in the near future.
I received "Be Still My Soul" as a complimentary gift in exchange for review from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. My comments and opinions are my own.
Although I didn't enjoy this book...I know others that have! You may enjoy it as well. You can read the first chapter of the book here
You can enter to win a copy below.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
August 13, 2010
Cry of My Heart is a tender, thoughtful novel of faith and fate, love and loss, and the folly of youth matured by the wisdom of age. Ms. Bischof has crafted a unique story that will have you gritting your teeth on one page and then smiling and shaking your head on the next.
Ms. Bischof transports you--she really transports you--into the thick forests, craggy ravines, and rushing waters of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia through the lives of young Gideon and Lonnie O'Riley. Even if this book didn't have the magnificent cover that it does, by the time you've finished reading the story, this very picture would be firmly implanted in your mind's eye. You'll hear the crunch of autumn leaves underfoot and feel winter's snow soak through your leggin's as the couple strikes out through the wilds in search of a place they can call their own.
Gideon's faltering leadership lays his family bare to the perils of an unforgiving wilderness and the wiles of unscrupulous backwoodsmen, both of whom threaten the couple's relationship and very lives. Saved in the nick of time by the elderly Jebediah and Elsie Bennett, who take them in to help with the upkeep of their farm, Gideon and Lonnie learn through experience and example what it means to become a family--yes, the rewards, but especially the cost.
Carefully researched and lovingly portrayed, Cry of My Heart saturates every page with the ambiance of The Blue Ridge mountain culture and personality. Ms. Bischof's vivid descriptions of every aspect of the milieu from the lay of the land to the spread on the kitchen table paints a glorious picture. I mean, how can you read "A plate of pancakes was busy melting a pad of butter....She grabbed a chunk of pork sausage and popped it in her mouth" and not start salivating like the most obedient of Pavlov's dogs?
Finally, consider the title. Cry of My Heart--along with the cover--was what caught my eye and interested me in the story in the first place, but I love its poignancy now even more having read the book. There will indeed be a crying of the heart. You will feel it; you will share it.
Oh, one last thing: prepare to love Lonnie. You really just can't help yourself.
Ms. Bischof transports you--she really transports you--into the thick forests, craggy ravines, and rushing waters of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia through the lives of young Gideon and Lonnie O'Riley. Even if this book didn't have the magnificent cover that it does, by the time you've finished reading the story, this very picture would be firmly implanted in your mind's eye. You'll hear the crunch of autumn leaves underfoot and feel winter's snow soak through your leggin's as the couple strikes out through the wilds in search of a place they can call their own.
Gideon's faltering leadership lays his family bare to the perils of an unforgiving wilderness and the wiles of unscrupulous backwoodsmen, both of whom threaten the couple's relationship and very lives. Saved in the nick of time by the elderly Jebediah and Elsie Bennett, who take them in to help with the upkeep of their farm, Gideon and Lonnie learn through experience and example what it means to become a family--yes, the rewards, but especially the cost.
Carefully researched and lovingly portrayed, Cry of My Heart saturates every page with the ambiance of The Blue Ridge mountain culture and personality. Ms. Bischof's vivid descriptions of every aspect of the milieu from the lay of the land to the spread on the kitchen table paints a glorious picture. I mean, how can you read "A plate of pancakes was busy melting a pad of butter....She grabbed a chunk of pork sausage and popped it in her mouth" and not start salivating like the most obedient of Pavlov's dogs?
Finally, consider the title. Cry of My Heart--along with the cover--was what caught my eye and interested me in the story in the first place, but I love its poignancy now even more having read the book. There will indeed be a crying of the heart. You will feel it; you will share it.
Oh, one last thing: prepare to love Lonnie. You really just can't help yourself.
June 12, 2017
I always start off a review with Wow or I love this book, they both apply to it (I just need to find new ways to start off a review)! I kept reading and reading wondering what was going to happen next and it seemed like at every turn poor Gideon would make yet another stupid mistake or it looked like he did. I was really rooting for this couple and really wanted things to work out for them. I also so loved the enduring older couple as well. They took this couple in and nurtured them and their marriage, it was just so sweet. Gus new just how to get Gideon to grow up and realize his blessings and responsibilities.
I really liked the authors writing style and its the first time I have read any of her books. It won't be the last. I will pick up the next in the series because I am dying to see where she takes us with this couple and the elderly couple as well, and then on to the next. This book will be a definite top pick for Historical Romance Lovers, but that is not my favorite genre and I loved it despite that. I found reading about the time period was so much fun, with romance and some intense parts to it. You won't be disappointed.
I really liked the authors writing style and its the first time I have read any of her books. It won't be the last. I will pick up the next in the series because I am dying to see where she takes us with this couple and the elderly couple as well, and then on to the next. This book will be a definite top pick for Historical Romance Lovers, but that is not my favorite genre and I loved it despite that. I found reading about the time period was so much fun, with romance and some intense parts to it. You won't be disappointed.
December 27, 2009
Lonnie and Gideon both grew up in pretty abusive homes. Forced to marry, they first live with Gideon's family who resents Lonnie's presence. So they decide to set out on thier own. Both make some poor choices because of the way they were raised, but you will cheer them on as they learn and mature. They meet up with an elderly couple who needs help keeping up the farm. And through that couple's patience and example learn a lot about God, themselves and each other. But when past mistakes come back to haunt Gid, and it looks to Lonnie like he is falling back into old habits, will she be able to forgive him, once again?
A very enjoyable read that brings home a message of forgiveness, grace, and a reminder not to be too quick to judge.
A very enjoyable read that brings home a message of forgiveness, grace, and a reminder not to be too quick to judge.
August 9, 2015
I thought that this would be good. I didn't think it would be so incredibly awesome. I love Lonnie's character. She is so sweet, faithful,honest, and able to truly see good in her husband, Gideon. Her father on the other hand I disliked from page one. He is so cruel to Lonnie.
I grew to really like Gideon as a character. He grew so much from the first scene between him and Lonnie, to the last page. I also can't stand Bert. Once you read this book, I think you will agree with me.
I won't say anymore than that so that you can find out what happens on your own. If any of you like the Love Comes Softly series, pick up this one.
February 10, 2013
Be Still My Soul is an apt title for this debut novel, which had my own heart pounding, stirring, and breaking for the characters. Joanne Bischof shines as a master wordsmith, painting vivid scenes textured with all five senses. This alone, makes it worth the read, but the story will sweep you away as much as its Appalachian setting. Not your run-of-the-mill romance, this one stands out for its realistic, broken characters and the strains of redemption and grace that run throughout this absorbing tale.
~Jocelyn Green, author of Wedded to War
~Jocelyn Green, author of Wedded to War
May 24, 2013
Wow! This was a first novel for the author, Joanne Bischof. Lonnie and Gideon, at the young ages of 17 and 22, start their married life with many obstacles. The reader should be prepared for poignant scenes where each character struggles mightily to figure out the reasons for their God-given paths. I found myself angry with Gideon but later giving him credit for learning how to handle being a new man. Give this book a try - you will react to it and remember it.
October 7, 2012
This Appalachian tale rang true, and I live in the Appalachians! Though Gideon isn't your typical hero, we're rooting for him as he learns how to treat his brand-new wife, Lonnie. Looking forward to getting to know these winsome characters more in Bischof's next book!
October 15, 2014
WOW! All I can say is WOW! This book is excellent. To see more of my review, please visit my blog: http://faithlovebooks.blogspot.com/20...
March 27, 2023
This book nearly wrecked me. I could hardly stomach the first quarter of it, but I could not stop reading. I was up much too late because I simply had to know what happened next.
Lonnie grew up with little love shown to her. Her only source of support and comfort came from her Aunt Sarah. When one day, Gideon O’Riley kisses Lonnie and her father sees, they are forced to marry. Lonnie’s father was verbally and physically abusive, so she was glad to finally be free of him, but she was now in the hands of Gideon, who was not at all happy to have been forced to marry her. Their relationship started on very rocky ground and continued that way for a good portion of the book.
Gideon forces Lonnie to leave everything she knows so that he might find a job and a life elsewhere. He had not one ounce of compassion or love for her and it deeply hurt my heart to see her treated that way. Then Jeb and his wife enter the picture and things start to turn around, very slowly but surely. Gideon tries to be a better man, but it seems to be a hopeless case. Lonnie was forced to endure so much at the hands of her father and now Gideon that her mental and emotional state are very fragile. Eventually she decides that she can no longer handle Gideon, so she sends him away. Soon she begins to regret that decision, but should she forgive him and accept him back into her life after all that he has done and may still do? You’ll have to read the book to find out I suppose ;)
Lonnie grew up with little love shown to her. Her only source of support and comfort came from her Aunt Sarah. When one day, Gideon O’Riley kisses Lonnie and her father sees, they are forced to marry. Lonnie’s father was verbally and physically abusive, so she was glad to finally be free of him, but she was now in the hands of Gideon, who was not at all happy to have been forced to marry her. Their relationship started on very rocky ground and continued that way for a good portion of the book.
Gideon forces Lonnie to leave everything she knows so that he might find a job and a life elsewhere. He had not one ounce of compassion or love for her and it deeply hurt my heart to see her treated that way. Then Jeb and his wife enter the picture and things start to turn around, very slowly but surely. Gideon tries to be a better man, but it seems to be a hopeless case. Lonnie was forced to endure so much at the hands of her father and now Gideon that her mental and emotional state are very fragile. Eventually she decides that she can no longer handle Gideon, so she sends him away. Soon she begins to regret that decision, but should she forgive him and accept him back into her life after all that he has done and may still do? You’ll have to read the book to find out I suppose ;)
February 3, 2018
This complicated story is at once tragic and hopeful. This has only happened twice in my life before, but I was so full of empathy for the protagonist that, at one point, I had tears rolling down my face and felt like my heart was breaking for her. Like others have said, this isn’t the typical Christian Historical romance, but the surprises are a study in human nature and the gift of forgiveness that are worth the time to take in.
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