Waves of Mercy

Waves of Mercy #1

by Lynn Austin

Geesje de Jonge crossed the ocean at age seventeen with her parents and a small group of immigrants from the Netherlands to settle in the Michigan wilderness. Fifty years later, in 1897, she's asked to write a memoir of her early experiences as the town celebrates its anniversary. Reluctant at first, she soon uncovers memories and emotions hidden all these years, including the story of her one true love. 

At the nearby Hotel Ottawa Resort on the shore of Lake Michigan, twenty-three-year-old Anna Nicholson is trying to ease the pain of a broken engagement to a wealthy Chicago banker. But her time of introspection is disturbed after a violent storm aboard a steamship stirs up memories of a childhood nightmare. As more memories and dreams surface, Anna begins to question who she is and whether she wants to return to her wealthy life in Chicago. When she befriends a young seminary student who is working at the hotel for the summer, she finds herself asking him all the questions that have been troubling her. 

Neither Geesje nor Anna, who are different in every possible way, can foresee the life-altering surprises awaiting them before the summer ends. 

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

384 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2016

About the author

For many years, Lynn Austin nurtured a desire to write but frequent travels and the demands of her growing family postponed her career. When her husband's work took Lynn to Bogota, Colombia, for two years, she used the B.A. she'd earned at Southern Connecticut State University to become a teacher. After returning to the U.S., the Austins moved to Anderson, Indiana, Thunder Bay, Ontario, and later to Winnipeg, Manitoba.

It was during the long Canadian winters at home with her children that Lynn made progress on her dream to write, carving out a few hours of writing time each day while her children napped. Lynn credits her early experience of learning to write amid the chaos of family life for her ability to be a productive writer while making sure her family remains her top priority.

Extended family is also very important to Austin, and it was a lively discussion between Lynn, her mother, grandmother (age 98), and daughter concerning the change in women's roles through the generations that sparked the inspiration for her novel Eve's Daughters.

Along with reading, two of Lynn's lifelong passions are history and archaeology. While researching her Biblical fiction series, Chronicles of the Kings, these two interests led her to pursue graduate studies in Biblical Backgrounds and Archaeology through Southwestern Theological Seminary. She and her son traveled to Israel during the summer of 1989 to take part in an archaeological dig at the ancient city of Timnah. This experience contributed to the inspiration for her novel Wings of Refuge.

Lynn resigned from teaching to write full-time in 1992. Since then she has published 27 novels. Eight of her historical novels, Hidden Places, Candle in the Darkness, Fire by Night, A Proper Pursuit, and Until We Reach Home have won Christy Awards in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2008, and 2009 for excellence in Christian Fiction. Fire by Night was also one of only five inspirational fiction books chosen by Library Journal for their top picks of 2003, and All She Ever Wanted was chosen as one of the five inspirational top picks of 2005. Lynn's novel Hidden Places has been made into a movie for the Hallmark Channel, starring actress Shirley Jones. Ms Jones received a 2006 Emmy Award nomination for her portrayal of Aunt Batty in the film.

Reviews

[Darla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished the sequel: Legacy of Mercy, Definitely a duology worth reading.

This inspirational historical title sheds light on the Dutch immigrants who founded Holland, Michigan (and Hope College) in the mid 19th century as well as featuring the sinking of the steamship Ironsides in Lake Michigan in 1873. It is 1897 and a young woman named Anna who is vacationing in Holland, MI, deals with nightmares of a shipwreck while we read about 70-something Geesje's experiences in immigrating fifty years prior. Lynn Austin's writing brings history to life and inspires faith. I become more of a fan with each book I read from her. As a descendant of Dutch immigrants on both sides of my family, I can play Dutch Bingo with the best of them. My husband has a sister living in Holland, Michigan as a matter of fact and has relatives who attended Hope College. As far as my family goes, my mother has grandparents who were born to families in the group of Dutch immigrants who left religious persecution in their native Holland (the country) at the same time as the group in this book with Dominie Scholte to found Pella, Iowa. Pella, by the way, means city of refuge.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Absolutely loved it. This is one of those books that lingered after I finished reading it. I've read a lot of Lynn Austin's books over the years, my favorite being Eve's Daughters. This book reminds me a lot of Eve's Daughters in how rich it was.

For anyone wanting a historical romance, sorry, this one's not for you. There are layers upon layers to both Anna and Geesje's stories. And yes there is some romance, especially as Geesje shares her story. But what I loved about this book was how both women searched for answers. I loved how their journeys were similar in their searches. There was a depth to these characters that has been missing from the books I've enjoyed lately.

I received this book for free as a part of Bethany House's blogging program. I was not required to like the book, only to give my honest opinion of it. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Jody Hedlund, Laura Frantz, Joanne Bischof, historical fiction

Rating - 5 stars

[Amanda (BookLoverAmanda) · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars! This was my first Lynn Austin read. I have found a new favorite author! You know how you read a story where you don’t even know how to explain how much you enjoyed it? That is exactly how I feel right now!

This Christian Historical Fiction has truly impacted me in a way where I will be thinking about this story for such a long time. This is book 1 in the Waves of Mercy series.

This is a dual timeline story. We follow Geesje de Jonge, Anna Nicholoson and Derk Vander Veen in 1897 Holland Michigan and then Geesje is writing down the memories of her life in the Netherlands 50 years ago for a centennial group. The author weaves the two stories together beautifully. I absolutely loved reading about Geesje’s life and look forward to the next one. Anna and Derk are always very wonderful characters and I was rooting for them both along the way. I loved Anna’s excitement to want to learn more and more about her faith and what Jesus means when he says certain things throughout the scriptures. She is adopted and trying to find answers to where she comes from and both characters wrestle with the choice of who should they marry.

This has some romance, but it is primarily a historical fiction. The faith content in this story is AMAZING. It truly impacts the decisions made throughout the story and the plot. I got so much from the faith of the characters in this story and the struggles each went through, especially Geesje’s journey through faith, loss, love, disappointments, tragedy and more.

A main point from this story – that your will isn’t always God’s will for your life. To pray about every decision before you make them, especially a large decision that will impact your future for the rest of your life. That tragedy and sadness may happen in life, but God has overcome and has a plan for your life no matter what.

We also have themes of religious freedom, the importance of studying God’s word, obedience and there were many scriptures referenced throughout the story. We also have the continuous question of “Why does God allow these things to happen?” and wrestling with all the emotions and thoughts that come to mind when we experience tragedy in life and struggles in our faith.

There were times I cried, frustrated right there with the characters, could feel what they were feeling – it was beautiful. I cannot wait to read more of this series and Lynn Austin’s novels.



*Note: I did struggle with the pronunciation of Geesje but the audiobook makes it sound like it's pronounced Kay-sha, but I may not hearing it correctly 100%.

[Baylie · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I’ve read all year and that says a lot! It’s been a journey reading Christian fiction and I haven’t read hardly any in the historical category. This book makes me want to immediately pick up the second book in the series!

What a story about love, loss, and testing of faith! It’s what all of us go through in life and how God is ALWAYS there with us through everything. The dual timelines and the main characters are so lovable and real. The faith aspect is outstanding and the romance aspect is so real and raw with everything that happens with the MCs. I think Lynn Austin is my new fav author!!! I can’t recommend this enough!!!! WOW!

[Samantha | samanthakreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a dual-timeline story that is filled with love, love, hardship, and a true test of faith. I loved how the author weaved the two stories together, the character development, and how prominent the faith-filled messages were. There is romance in this book that flows nicely while not taking away from the main plot of the story. Although this book has tragic parts, it displays what we can overcome when we follow God and his plan for us.

An important takeaway is the importance of praying about the decisions we make and following God’s will and purpose, even when it contradicts what we think, know, or want. Even though it can be really challenging in real life, God knows what’s best for us, and he will help us get through even the hardest moments.

I see how this is so many people’s favorite book and why @bayliesbookshelf recommended this book to me. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction and prominent Christian themes.

This was book 1 in a duology, and I will definitely be reading book 2!✨

Thank you for the book rec Baylie!💕

Content discretions: No spice (kisses), no language, loss, persecution, tragedy, fire, boat accident, war injury, illness, anxiety

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review after book club

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. Lynn Austin writes such great fiction. Her characters are deep with real feelings and problems. I loved to see the growth that all of the characters went through. This book had lots of family secrets that kept me guessing. It also has strong themes of faith, loyalty and the importance of obedience. I highly recommend this book to lovers of historical fiction and family drama.

I received this book from the publisher for the purpose of review.

[Staci · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a lovely novel.

Waves of Mercy blends the stories of Anna Nicholson, Derk Vander Veen and Geesje de Jonge in 1897 Holland Michigan while also sharing Geesje's memories going back 50 years in the Netherlands. It's a beautiful journey about faith and God's will. The prevailing message is that God's will for your life may not match the one you have in mind. While I find this can be frustrating in real life, it was also frustrating at points in the novel. Thankfully, God does know better than we do what is best for us.

[Taury · Rating 5 out of 5]

Waves of Mercy by Lynn Austin is a Christian historical fiction novel set in the 1890s which features a dual timeline about the lives of two women in different generations. Anna Nicholson, a young woman in the late 19th century and Geesje de Jonge, an older woman reflecting on her past. The story is set in the Dutch immigrant community in Holland, Michigan. The narrative follows very specific themes such as faith and redemption, the immigrant experience, and family and culture. Lynn Austin does a great job intertwining the two timelines through thorough research and storytelling. Her writing of faith and personal growth makes this story refreshing and an inspiring read.

[Theresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anna Nicholson is recovering from a broken engagement. Her ex-fiance William has put his foot down. It simply is not acceptable for Anna to continue seeking out her religious questions and attend the unpretentious church in Chicago that has seemed like such a place of safety for her. Anna retreats to a hotel on Lake Ottawa in Michigan to give herself some breathing space. While there, she meets a young seminary student, Derk, who also has his own choices to make.

Derk is also hoping to marry the love of his life; however Caroline, his fiance, doesn’t want to be a minister’s wife. She feels it would make too many demands on their family life. Who is right? Should Derk choose an alternate career path? Should Caroline adjust her expectations of Derk?

In order to find answers to these questions, Derk turns to Geesje, his neighbor, who practically raised him after he lost his own mother. Geesje came to America from the Netherlands with her parents as a young seventeen year old girl. Fleeing religious persecution, Geesje has faced her own dilemmas with life-choices. Now in her sixties, she is asked by the town of Holland, Michigan, to write her memories as one of the town's first immigrants. As Geesje begins to write her memoirs, she finds parallels in her own story with that of her young friend, Derk.

“I stop writing and drop my pencil as if it’s on fire. I close the notebook and stuff it into my desk, remembering the mistakes I made, the tragic choices I faced, and the people I hurt in the process. The memories cause me immeasurable pain. Even now. Even after all these years.”

'Waves of Mercy' was so well done. The dual story, unlike others I have read, was never confusing. I had no trouble keeping these characters, their stories or time frames, straight.

When the possibility arises for her to become re-engaged, Anna, knowing that Derk has a close relationship with the Lord, goes to him with her questions. Should she still marry William, knowing that he expects her to obey his wishes and stop attending the church of her choice? How important is religious freedom and where does it fit into the parameters of marriage?

“I learned that my father’s business is in financial trouble. He needs the family connections with William and his bank in order to survive the crisis. I love my father. I would do anything for him and Mother. They wouldn’t know how to survive if they lost all their money.”

“Do they know that’s why you’re making this sacrifice and marrying William?”

“No. But it’s hardly a sacrifice. William is a good man from a fine, churchgoing family. I’ll be a wealthy woman. I’m sure he’ll let me give generously to the poor. I can do a lot of good as his wife.”

Lynn Austin is not afraid to explore the hard questions of life within the lives of her characters. Some questions are never fully or completely answered to the satisfaction of the characters in this historical fiction novel, but within the struggles there are opportunities for growth and maturity and life-lessons of perseverance within hardship.

As we read through Geesje’s story we live through the Civil War with all of its anxieties for her sons and her friends’ sons when they go off to fight.

"As the war dragged on and on into another dreadful year, casualties among our area men began to mount. Every day brought news of Union setbacks and victories, with more and more deaths and appalling injuries. Every day we gathered with other worried families on a downtown street corner not far from the print shop to listen to the news as it was read aloud, holding our breaths as we waited to see if one of our Holland boys was listed among the wounded or dead.”

Along with Geesje and Maarten we hope their home and business survives the terrible fire that sweeps through the town, and admire their tenacity when they work to rebuild. We want to find out how Anna, who was adopted, became part of her family and why she has the memories that hold clues to her own story. We too ask all the "why?" questions when the characters suffer yet another setback, another disappointment, another terrible loss.

“Where are your parents, Geesje?” Hendrik was looking all around the cabin as his eyes adjusted to the dim light.

“They died several months ago. Of malaria."

The story of the settlement of Holland in Michigan by the Dutch was an unknown to me, and their struggles to carve out a new life in a new, unfamiliar land with very few comforts (if any), were mind-boggling. Could we today have done the same?

I found Geeseje’s writings fascinating. Although I predicted the tie-in that happens near the end, her story still held my interest enough that I wanted to keep reading. I admired her courage and determination to do the right thing, even though at first her heart was breaking.

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good. SO good. The story was intriguing and the faith lessons were impactful (literally this book could be used as a tool to minister to people). Completely loved it!

[Paula Vince · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've read enough Lynn Austin novels to know they'll surely be a good quality read. Her cross-cultural stories are always really thoroughly researched, and this is no exception. It's a dual timeline which gradually draws together.

The younger protagonist, Anna, has accompanied her mother to a holiday resort, but she's preoccupied. Not only has her fiance recently jilted her, but she suffers strong nightmares about drowning at sea, and lately she's beginning to wonder how she can understand foreign words she's supposedly never heard before.

The elderly protagonist, Geesje, has been challenged to write her personal history for a book about the district's 50 year anniversary. Her past is full of anger and bitterness which she's not sure she ought to share, but as she begins to get it all down on paper, she decides it may be of some value to others after all, and we find out how she migrated from Holland with her family, and the harsh circumstances involved.

It's clear that the two stories will converge together eventually, but from the start, the go-between is a young seminary student named Derk. Anna knows him as a friendly part-time worker at the hotel she's staying at, and to Geesje, he's the son of some old friends.

It's an interesting read, but not my favourite story by Lynn Austin. I had problems with the way she wrote Geesje's romantic dilemma, and whether she'd end up with handsome, lonely soldier Hendrick or her father's loyal apprentice Maarten. It felt like the character development she gave each young man made it too easy to predict where she was taking the love triangle. Sure enough, Geesje's eventual choice came as no surprise. When character development makes the plot too obvious, then maybe it's a bit heavy-handed. Also, I felt really bad for one of those young fellows, since he was doing all the right things and what happened wasn't really his fault.

I thought it might have been nice if we readers had some tips on how to pronounce Geesje's name. It would have been easy enough to have her tell another character, 'This is how you say it.' As it is, I'm sure the way I imagine it spoken in my head is nothing like it's supposed to be.

As a family saga, it's an emotional roller coaster with plenty of twists and overdue revelations. But those moments of predictability, plus a bit too much sadness and grief in the back stories, makes it a good read, but not one of my very favourites.

Thanks to Bethany House and NetGalley for my review copy.
Find more reviews on my blog, http://vincereview.blogspot.com.au/

[Fiction Aficionado · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some novels leave you feeling so full you don’t have room for your own words. That was the overwhelming feeling I had when I finished this novel – and yet I was desperately scrambling to find more because I wanted Anna’s story to keep going! But Geesje’s story . . . it’s one that will stay with you once you have read it. It will leave an impression on your heart and become part of the ‘experience’ you draw on as you navigate the waters of your own life, through the calm and the storm. It is full of wisdom gained through some of the most difficult experiences and decisions life can throw at you and, to be perfectly honest, is one of the most inspiring stories of faith I have ever read – fiction or not.

There are two aspects to this story. The first is the ‘present’ (in this case, 1897), told from the point of view of both Anna Nicholson and Geejse. Anna arrives at Hotel Ottawa after a turbulent crossing of Lake Michigan, nursing a broken heart and weighed down by some of life’s deepest questions. Prior to leaving Chicago she had been secretly attending Moody’s Chicago Avenue church – a church that feels very familiar to her, even though she cannot remember ever having attended before. It is here that she hears the minister speaking about Jesus as if He was his best friend; words that touch a deep, empty place in her soul. Even when her fiancé, William, forbids her from attending, she cannot help but be drawn back to learn more. When he learns that she has defied him, he ends their engagement.

Derk Vander Veen mistakes Anna for someone else when he sees her sitting on a bench near Black Lake on her first morning at Hotel Ottawa, but it’s a mistake that leads to a tentative friendship when Anna discovers that Derk is studying to become a minister. Although she knows her mother would frown upon her spending time with a hotel employee, Derk listens in a way that no one else has, and she finds herself sharing her desire for the freedom to explore the differences between the formal religion she has grown up with, and the Christian faith that seems so . . . real.

Geesje knows just how much is sometimes sacrificed for religious freedom. Although she and Anna do not meet until towards the end of the book, it is her wisdom that Derk seeks as he and Anna grapple with questions of faith, and of love. And it is her memoir that provides the second aspect to this story, a story so heart-wrenching at times that I had to put the book down and give myself time to process what I was feeling.

I’m not going to share any of the particulars here, but as Geesje encounters hardship, heartbreak, tragedy, and loss through the years, she repeatedly asks, “Why? If it was God’s will to come here, why are we still suffering? If God loves me, how could he allow this to happen to me?” And yet in the face of her anger, her doubts, and her questions, when faced with the most agonizing decision of her life, she goes against every inclination of her heart and obeys God; and discovers that God is faithful. Sometimes it takes many years for our eyes to be opened, but as Geesje says to Derk: “Isn’t that the definition of faith – moving forward through the darkness, clinging to God?”

Geesje’s story is also a powerful exploration of love in the context of marriage, which parallels beautifully with the questions Anna and Derk ask themselves and each other as they reconsider their respective engagements and the balance between duty, love, and compromise.

It is impossible to read this novel and not come away challenged, inspired, and deeply affected. A truly beautiful story.

I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the author in exchange for my honest review.

[Missy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh this was a good read about freedom, loss, and the strength God has within us. I loved reading Geesja's story of how her family left Holland for religious freedom, settling in the wilds of Michigan, and the way she found her true love. Although it was not the life she thought she would live, it was the life she embraced, and through her strength in God learned it was the one he had sought for her.

I also liked Anna's story of loss at an early childhood, and though she was not as prayerful and steadfast in her faith as Geesja, she was learning that she has had the faith all her life. After breaking off her engagement with her fiance, William, Anna and her mother retreat to a resort on the shores of Lake Michigan. There she meets Derk and there her memories and dreams start to make sense, but why there. I really enjoy her and Derk's storyline, I cannot say the same for her and William.

I am enjoying this series and cannot wait to read the next.

[Lynn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another great book from Lynn Austin! I received a free copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers. The book is set in Holland Michigan in the year 1897, as the town is preparing to celebrate it's 50 year anniversary. Geesje begins writing a memoir of her experience emigrating from the Netherlands to Michigan. At the same time, a young woman from Chicago is seeking direction in her life after a broken engagement. The stories of these two very different women are woven together with masterful skill.

Lynn Austin is a gifted writer who does extensive research to ensure historical accuracy. It was great to learn about the Dutch immigrants who came seeking religious freedom. "Waves of Mercy" is bursting with rich wisdom and inspiration for real life.

To see my complete review please visit my blog

[Sarita · Rating 4 out of 5]

Waves of Mercy was a story where past and present weaved together to create a beautiful journey of Geesje’s life.

Just moving to the Netherlands, I could understand why Geesje missed it. Everything she remembered about it is what we find magical about the Netherlands.

Through Geesje’s life, we find loss, love, broken hearts, and difficult decisions. But most of all, we find a strong thread of faith.

I had a suspicion of how Anna was connected to everyone and was happy to see I was right.

I enjoyed seeing how the characters grew and realized they had to give up what they thought was the plan for the live, to step into God’s plan and a life of abundance.

*I listened to the audiobook on Scribd.*

[Joleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Waves of Mercy by Lynn Austin
Location: Lake Ottawa in Michigan
Timeframe: 1897
Anna Nicholson: Main character plagued with a specific nightmare
Derk Vander Veen: Seminary student, drawn to Anna
Geesje de Jonge: Older Dutch woman with a story to tell
Maarten de Jonge: Geesje’s husband

Two Voices in this story: Geesje (pronounced Gaysha), a Dutch woman who came to America with her parents when she was seventeen escaping religious persecution. She left behind a young soldier she was madly in love with who she promised to marry once he was able to make it to America.

The second voice is that of Anna Nicholson, who grew up in a wealthy home in Chicago, troubled with the same nightmare where she and her mama are drowning during a shipwreck. She has no explanation as to why she has this same recurring dream. The story begins with her in Michigan on retreat at a Lake Ottawa hotel after her fiancé cancelled their engagement. William wanted a submissive wife who would obey him when he commanded her. He objected to Anna attending a specific church in Chicago, but because she felt an unexplainable pull toward it, they clashed.

Derk Vander Veen is a young man who was working at the hotel and going to seminary. His parents were both gone now and he became quite close to Geesje, who lived next door. Little by little she shared with him the journal she’d been writing of her life before and after her arrival in Holland, Michigan. It’s an article a local paper asked her to write for the 50th anniversary of the town.

Anna and Derk met at the hotel. They were both drawn to each other; he because she was the image of his good friend Kristine, and she because she wanted to know more of his faith. Geesje’s fascinating story is not one she has shared with many people, but it is one that is relevant to Derk and Anna without them knowing it. But her father’s financial troubles mean she needed to reconcile with the wealthy William, complicating their friendship.

This is not what I’d call a romantic story. Oh, there’s romance, but it is a harder, real life, not pie-in-the-sky type of story. There aren’t handsome gentlemen stealing the hearts of fair maidens in this book. It is realistic with lighthearted parts and heartbreaking issues. But that’s what I love about Ms. Austin’s books. You will have a sweeping historical background to a fascinating human interest story.

My only problem was when I thought I figured it out, and that it was going in a certain direction, Ms. Austin went a different way and it was disappointing.

Still, all in all, a very good book. 4.5 stars.

Side note: This was the audio version of the book. There were two narrators, one for Anna and one for Geesje; I'm not sure which was which. Anna's narrator was great, but, sadly the narrator for Geesje was hard to listen to... melodramatic and just didn't sound like she was acting the part well. But it made no impact on the riches in this book, nor does it affect my rating at all. Still an entertaining and good book.

[Iola · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dual Timeline, Dual Impact
It's been a while since I've read a novel by Lynn Austin, and I'm ashamed to admit I'd forgotten what an outstanding author she is. As you can probably guess, I thought Waves of Mercy was excellent.

It's a dual timeline story - I seem to have had a run of these lately, with The Wedding Shop by Rachel Hauck (excellent), A Tapestry of Secrets by Sarah Loudin Thomas (good), and now Waves of Mercy (outstanding).

The present (!) story is set in 1897 that of Miss Anna Nicholson, who is staying at the Hotel Ottawa on the shores of Lake Michigan to recover from her broken engagement and consider her future. William, her fiance, says he can't marry a religious fanatic like those who attend Mr Moody's church. Yet Anna finds comfort in the church, feels that the words touch and fill an empty part of her soul. She wants to know more about this God they preach about--a God she never hears about in her own upper-class church.

This is also the story of Geesje, one of the original immigrants to Holland, Michigan. She and her family left religious persecution in the Netherlands in the late 1840s to seek a new life in America, and that's the more historic part of the story--Geesje's memories of life in the Netherlands, the voyage to the New World, and establishing the settlement of Holland. But it's also her personal life story, and the story of her struggles with God, especially her relationship struggles.

What joins the two women is Derk, an employee at the Hotel Ottawa, and Geesje's next-door neighbour. He becomes Anna's confidant, and seeks counsel himself from Geesje, a woman full of godly wisdom:

Both stories are fascinating--Anna's, because the search for God is universal, and Geesje's because there is a lot to admire in the early settlers, and a lot we can learn from them. While there are touches of romance, this is more a love story, as both Anna and Geesje are God-seekers, admitedly from different perspectives and from different parts of their lives:

We think Christians should do more than just agree with what the Bible says. We should obey it and do things like loving our enemies.

Lynn Austin is from Michigan and attended Hope College in Holland, Michigan, and that knowledge of the setting and the people comes through in the writing. It's not obtrusive in any way, but reading the Author's Note at the end gave me the 'aha' moment that explained how she was able to make the setting come alive.

Thanks to Bethany House and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.

[Alice Chittock · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I think of Christian fiction, this book is probably what comes to mind.
A book that's filled with faith, but not preachy. A book where Jesus is at the centre, not just tagged on with a few "God bless you's" and prayers. A book where people struggle with real issues, and make real mistakes, not simply a book that is clean.
As well as being, in my mind at least, what I consider perfect Christian fiction, this book has a plot which even the most skeptical of this genre would enjoy. It kept me guessing, with the dual timeline, at times my jaw actually, physically dropped!
I highly reccomend this story for lovers of both historical and Christian fiction.
Many thanks to net galley for a review copy of this book.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have long been a fan of Lynn Austin's historical fiction, and Waves of Mercy has zoomed to the top of my 'favorites' list of her stellar novels. Filled with plot twists to take your breath away, characters you love, deep insights into the history of the Dutch immigrants and soul-stirring spiritual dilemmas, Waves of Mercy was un-put-downable! I immediately grabbed Book #2 in the series, Legacy of Mercy, and devoured it, too. Kudos!

[Jasmine · Rating 5 out of 5]

"All the days of our lives are written in God's book before one of them will ever come to be".

This book has the right amount of romance and suspense, with a huge dose of encouragement.

I read this book at the right time. I needed the encouragement I got from this book. Amazing how God uses anything to give us the courage we need.

I recommend this book.

[Nikki Akerson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow what hardship and struggles they went through first for their faith and then migrating to America. There is a lot of tragedy and loss. The MC wanted to have control over her life and didn’t let the Lord lead her which led to much heartbreak. It is a good reminder to ask God to guide us in all things. Her faith journey was rocky but ended up rock solid. There were some shocking moments and I was in tears by the end.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Waves of Mercy" is Christian historical fiction. The primary story is set from 1845 to 1897 and follows the life of Geesje, a woman whose family migrated to America for religious freedom. Her family and others who came from Netherlands struggled to build a town out in the wilderness in Michigan.

The historical details about events in Netherlands and during the building of the new town were very interesting and were woven into the story. These events were seen through the eyes of a young woman struggling with why God would allow so much death and suffering in her life. It's a very good story with realistic characters of complexity and depth.

The framing story was about Anna, a young woman in 1897 who felt like she had to choose between God or an excellent marriage with a man she thought she loved. While at a lakeside resort, she strove to learn more about God and in the process became friends with a seminary student. This young man was just learning of Geesje's past and her struggles with faith, and he believed her story might help Anna. Healing is found by all as the past touches on the present.

The 1897 stories were told in first person, present tense. This was one of the few times that I didn't find this device distracting. (Authors usually end up wandering through various tenses rather than sticking to present tense, which I find distracting.) There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd highly recommend this novel.

I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Waves of Mercy was an amazing story! I was blown away by the characters and story. I loved the different point of views and Geesje's flashback chapters. So good and I can't wait to pick up Legacy of Mercy to see how their story ends.

[Rebekah Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve read a few Lynn Austin novels lately, and so far I ’m on a winning streak because each one is better than the last! Waves of Mercy is a beautifully written story of lives intertwining and God’s involvement in the making of goodness and of course… His Mercy. In the beginning of the story I was a little confused with the two tales of Geesje and Anna ( I think this came from listening to the story on audiobook) but I did catch on and I enjoyed the stories of each woman. The depth in which Lynn Austin writes in Waves of Mercy makes her characters come alive.

Geesje’s tale is one woven in sorrow and while reading I kept thinking “If something good doesn’t happen to this woman, I don’t know how much more I can take!” I cannot imagine how strong her faith would of had to have been to survive all of the trials and hardships in her life. This story will definitely cause you to sit back and wonder if your faith would survive such ordeals, but seeing Geesje thriving in the end helped me realize that there is always good and hardships are sometimes only temporary. God is constant whether we let him rein control in our lives or not.

Anna’s story is quite different, but from the beginning I had a hunch that somehow her story had more to do with Geesje’s & Derk that we would all realize. However, Maarten is my absolute favorite character (he did get wrapped up in a bad decision at one point but…) we need more men of faith and character like him!

Normally I like a touch more romance in my historical novels, but I didn’t care when reading Waves of Mercy because all other aspects of the story were richly developed and on point. One of the main reasons this novel was not a 5 star read for me was because I was not satisfied with the ending. I had so many unanswered questions that lingered. However, while finishing up this review, I learned that there is a follow up book in the series. YAY!! Now I almost want to change my review :) Only problem is, the book has not come out yet, so on to the next Austin novel while waiting!

[Christian Fiction Addiction · Rating 5 out of 5]

Weaving multiple storylines together into a riveting whole is a skill Lynn Austin has shown time and time again, and "Waves of Mercy" is no exception. More than with any other novel by Austin that I have ever read, she has succeeded at taking two people's lives and joining them together in totally unexpected ways. I'm not sure which character I loved more, whether the Anna of 1897 in Michigan, or Geesje both from 50 years prior as well as in 1897. Each of them have such tragic moments in their pasts that I couldn't help but feel a deep fondness for each. For the first half of the book, I simply found myself captivated by the story and unable to stop reading. But I have to say that there was a point half way through the book where a twist in Geesje's life actually made me throw the book down! Geesje makes a heart-breaking choice with conequences she could never have anticipated, and at first I was actually angry at this twist in the story (revealing, of course, the incredible gift Austin has to make you truly care about her characters!) But as I kept devouring the chapters that followed, I came to realize that Austin had demonstrated an incredible truth, that God can take the most difficult of circumstances and bring a profound and lasting good. I closed the pages of this novel so very encouraged by the character's faith, forged through tragedy and a loss that would be so very hard to walk through. It would be impossible to read the story of Geesje in particular and not be inspired by her courage!

Austin has crafted a novel that will not only engage your emotions, but will stir your faith at the same time. Her writing is absolutely beautiful, and the blend in times from the mid 1800's to the end of the 19th century made for fascinating reading. "Waves of Mercy" is historical fiction at its best! 5 out of 5 stars.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

[Amanda Geaney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I feel like a time traveler who’s returned to the present day after a memorable visit to the late 1800’s. Without leaving the comfort of my home, Waves of Mercy brought me across the Atlantic ocean with Geesje De Jonge and her family. They are fleeing the Netherlands with their entire community in search of religious freedom in America. Every aspect of their journey was arduous, and the land that greeted them was untamed. When all manner of affliction assailed their small Dutch colony in western Michigan, they held fast to God — trusting.

1897 is the starting point for Anna Nicholson and Geesje’s stories. Readers gain insight into Anna’s life through her dreams as well as dialogue with other characters, like her mother and a hotel worker named Derk. On the other hand, Lynn Austin cleverly allows Geesje to write her life’s history (for us to read) at the request of her town’s Semi-Centennial Committee.

Waves of Mercy tossed my emotions about like a ship in a storm. In an overtly Christian novel where the people question their circumstance in relation to God’s goodness, His will, and their willingness/unwillingness to obey; the characters were relatable, yet not always admirable. At times I felt the story was about to be capsized by sadness, but my lasting takeaway was how all the trials produced perseverance and maturity of faith. Awash in history, complex characters, and highly emotive writing, Austin’s latest is not to be missed!

I received this book free of charge from the publisher. The opinions expressed are my own.
Originally posted at ChristianShelfEsteem.wordpress.com

[Rachael · Rating 4 out of 5]

Waves of Mercy was another great read by Lynn Austin. I will admit it didn't grab me from page one, but it eventually grabbed me so that I could not put it down!

I love all the characters in this novel, even the secondary ones. Anna was my favorite though. The plot is incredibly well done, the characters seem real, and there is a beautiful faith thread.

What I liked most was that it wasn't predictable...tragedies, difficulties, and disappointments fill a life story, but there is a purpose for each one. This book as Austin so frequently does, is so much like life. It's not a fairy tale, but it's definitely a tale worth reading. I highly recommend this novel, and as always, I eagerly await the next read from this author who has become a must buy for me!

[Cathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have to say, a lot of sadness in this book. sad in the middle especially. The ending SUCKED! You don't missionary date and you don't marry someone hoping they will convert or become more devout. It's seems Geesje made horrible decisions and then decided to ruin another girl's life by giving awful advice. :( I think 3 stars is generous

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Waves Of Mercy by Lynn Austin is a Christian historical romance. It was my first novel by Lynn Austin and wow, what a read! I loved Waves Of Mercy and greedily devoured it.
Waves Of Mercy is packed full of God's goodness. It explores the themes of faith and doubt. Doubt that asks questions can lead to a stronger faith. "My faith was battered by a storm of doubt as I questioned god's goodness." Faith and doubt are not opposites but work together.
The novel shows how faith is not just going to church. "He's with us everywhere we go, not just in a church building." Faith is a relationship with God. It is being 'real' with Him. "Should I tell... how I raged at god for letting them die?" It is giving God your anger, your tears and your sorrows as well as your praise, hopes and dreams. Faith is loving God, relying on Him and letting His peace surround you.
Church is important but you need a church that builds up your faith. "We wanted to live as servants of Christ, not servants of a state controlled church system that kept God at a cold, remote distance and watered down all His commandments." You need a church that will support you in the good and bad times and help deepen your relationship with God. A church that functions as Jesus intended it too. Churches are not supposed to be clubs that pay lip service to God. They are meant to be beacons of light, helping in a dark world.
Family is important. A family that pulls together and supports each other. A family is a microcosm of the church, it is to love, support and help grow ones faith.
The novel is about new beginnings - both in faith and physically as the town of Holland grows and develops.
Lynn Austin cleverly sets the novel from two different viewpoints and at two different time periods. Her leading ladies - Anna and Geesje are both lovable, likable, strong women who just spoke to my heart. Though separated by miles, class and age, they are drawn to each other and to the reader. Anna is searching for her roots. Geesje is writing her memoirs. Both make fascinating reading.
The time periods are 1897 and fifty years earlier. The reader is educated about the persecution of the Separatists in Holland and their subsequent setting up of a new life in America.
Lynn Austin has written the most wonderful novel in Waves Of Mercy. I really 'felt' like I was 'seeing' the action. I was engaged throughout the whole story. The imagery and language connected to the sea and storms was very cleverly done. As was the main message... whatever storm we face in life, Jesus is right there alongside us.
An absolutely marvellous read.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.