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Lowlands of Scotland #4
Grace in Thine Eyes
Glen of Loch Trool. Spring 1808.
Davina McKie is a bonny lass of seventeen, as clever as they come and a gifted musician. Unable to speak since childhood, she is doted on by her belligerent younger brothers, Will and Sandy, who vow to protect their silent sister.
When the lads are forced to depart the glen, Jamie McKie intends to brighten his daughter’s summer by escorting Davina to the Isle of Arran. Her cousins make her welcome at the manse, and the parish delights in hearing their talented fiddler.
But when she catches the eye of a handsome young Highlander on Midsummer Eve, sheltered Davina is unprepared for the shocking events that follow.
A timeless story of passion and revenge, of lost innocence and shattered dreams, Grace in Thine Eyes explores the sorrow of unspeakable shame and the gift of immeasurable grace.
A Reader’s Guide and Scottish Glossary Are Included
Davina McKie is a bonny lass of seventeen, as clever as they come and a gifted musician. Unable to speak since childhood, she is doted on by her belligerent younger brothers, Will and Sandy, who vow to protect their silent sister.
When the lads are forced to depart the glen, Jamie McKie intends to brighten his daughter’s summer by escorting Davina to the Isle of Arran. Her cousins make her welcome at the manse, and the parish delights in hearing their talented fiddler.
But when she catches the eye of a handsome young Highlander on Midsummer Eve, sheltered Davina is unprepared for the shocking events that follow.
A timeless story of passion and revenge, of lost innocence and shattered dreams, Grace in Thine Eyes explores the sorrow of unspeakable shame and the gift of immeasurable grace.
A Reader’s Guide and Scottish Glossary Are Included
464 pages, Paperback
First published May 10, 2006
98 people are currently reading
2342 people want to read
About the author
Liz Curtis Higgs
76 books1,433 followersFormer Bad Girl, grateful for the grace God offers. Happy wife of Bill, one of the Good Guys. Proud mom of two grown-up kids with tender hearts. Lame housekeeper. Marginal cook. Pitiful gardener. Stuff I love? Encouraging my sisters in Christ—across the page, from the platform, online, in person. Unpacking Scripture. Traveling wherever God leads. Listening to His heart. Leaning into His embrace.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
November 18, 2012
"Grace in Thine Eyes" is the biblical story of Dinah retold in early nineteenth-century Scotland. It works. At first, I didn't think I'd like the book very much. How can a mute character be very interesting? But Higgs brings Davina to life and gives her a voice of a different sort. Pretty soon, you forget that Davina never says a word. This story picks up after the trilogy, "Thorn in My Heart", but is written as a stand-alone novel. One of the many things I appreciate about Higgs's writing is that she weaves the Christian element into the story as naturally as breathing—it isn't preachy—nor is it slighted.
May 27, 2019
This is a mini ‘Books For Christian Girls’ review. It is not a full content review and will not receive one. These mini-reviews are years old and just for clarity on the rating the book received on Goodreads.
3/13/2015-
“Stopped at pg. 186 because Davina is raped.”
*Main Content-
Davina's twin brother love vengeance (he beats up men for getting too close to her, barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of drinking & drunks; Davina as a child was called 'stupid' and 'dumb' for not being able to speak; Curses are said, not written.
Davina is raped and while it is not detailed, it is awful and clothes are ripped; Touches, Nearness, & Blushes (semi-detailed); Noticing & Staring; Married couples kiss & embrace (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a player who likes to sleep with women & his crude comments towards Davina; Mentions of kisses & kissing; A mention of a prostitute; two 'wanton's; Gowns with low-necklines.
3/13/2015-
“Stopped at pg. 186 because Davina is raped.”
*Main Content-
Davina's twin brother love vengeance (he beats up men for getting too close to her, barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of drinking & drunks; Davina as a child was called 'stupid' and 'dumb' for not being able to speak; Curses are said, not written.
Davina is raped and while it is not detailed, it is awful and clothes are ripped; Touches, Nearness, & Blushes (semi-detailed); Noticing & Staring; Married couples kiss & embrace (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a player who likes to sleep with women & his crude comments towards Davina; Mentions of kisses & kissing; A mention of a prostitute; two 'wanton's; Gowns with low-necklines.
January 20, 2009
I was engrossed in this book!
My love for Leana continued in this book focused on her daughter, Davina. This is a retelling of the story of Dinah in the book of Genesis.
For me, Graham Webster is the true jewel in this novel. I love him!
This book and the preceding Lowlands of Scotland books really made me reflect on my faith. I found myself thinking and repeating the phrases to myself that Leana would pray in her heart. I'm very glad I read this, I would recommend it to anyone!
My love for Leana continued in this book focused on her daughter, Davina. This is a retelling of the story of Dinah in the book of Genesis.
For me, Graham Webster is the true jewel in this novel. I love him!
This book and the preceding Lowlands of Scotland books really made me reflect on my faith. I found myself thinking and repeating the phrases to myself that Leana would pray in her heart. I'm very glad I read this, I would recommend it to anyone!
October 18, 2018
Scotland - Spring 1808. Davina McKie is a beautiful seventeen-year-old girl. A gifted fiddler, she's well-loved by everyone in her small village. However, due to a childhood accident, Davina has been mute for most of her life. Her twin brothers, Will and Sandy, have made it their mission to be Davina's protectors and guardians. But things are about to change. Their father Jamie sends Will and Sandy away to school, leaving Davina vulnerable and extremely lonely.
His plan to cheer Davina is to have her spend the summer on the Isle of Arran with relatives - a minister and his family, including daughters to befriend Davina. At first, this works out beautifully for all involved. Davina is happy getting to know other girls her own age, and everyone is thrilled by Davina's fiddle playing - none more so than Somerled MacDonald, a Highlander who is also visiting Arran. Davina catches Somerled's ear, eye, and heart. Yet the naïve young woman is unprepared for the far-reaching cascade of tragedies that follow. Can God redeem even the darkest of situations?
This is the fourth Scottish historical novel by talented Liz Curtis Higgs. Although some of the characters from the previous trilogy (Thorn in My Heart, Fair is the Rose, and Whence Came a Prince) are featured in this novel, Grace in Thine Eyes is intended to stand alone. One does not need to know the background to fully appreciate this story, but it does enrich the reading experience. This novel takes its inspiration from the biblical story of Dinah featured in Genesis 34. In the author's words, 'It is an 1808 version of date rape.'
One would think that Davina's inability to speak would distract from the story, but it does not. It actually adds to the depth and helps the reader to understand how the events of the biblical story could have occurred the way they are described. Davina is a lovely character with talents for music and art. Her innocence never comes across as false, and when it is stolen from her, her reaction is mature and realistic as well. Somerled is an obvious rake, but he grows on the reader as he comes to an understanding of his actions.
Although the novel is based on a story from the Bible and speaks of God's grace, the faith message is so subtly woven in that any reader looking for a well-told historical novel will be immediately drawn into the plot. I cannot say enough good things about this novel, which so far tops my list of most-loved books this year. Included in the back of the book is a Scottish glossary defining possibly unfamiliar terms. A reader's guide is also provided. Grace in Thine Eyes is a well-researched, engrossing tale that readers will treasure.
His plan to cheer Davina is to have her spend the summer on the Isle of Arran with relatives - a minister and his family, including daughters to befriend Davina. At first, this works out beautifully for all involved. Davina is happy getting to know other girls her own age, and everyone is thrilled by Davina's fiddle playing - none more so than Somerled MacDonald, a Highlander who is also visiting Arran. Davina catches Somerled's ear, eye, and heart. Yet the naïve young woman is unprepared for the far-reaching cascade of tragedies that follow. Can God redeem even the darkest of situations?
This is the fourth Scottish historical novel by talented Liz Curtis Higgs. Although some of the characters from the previous trilogy (Thorn in My Heart, Fair is the Rose, and Whence Came a Prince) are featured in this novel, Grace in Thine Eyes is intended to stand alone. One does not need to know the background to fully appreciate this story, but it does enrich the reading experience. This novel takes its inspiration from the biblical story of Dinah featured in Genesis 34. In the author's words, 'It is an 1808 version of date rape.'
One would think that Davina's inability to speak would distract from the story, but it does not. It actually adds to the depth and helps the reader to understand how the events of the biblical story could have occurred the way they are described. Davina is a lovely character with talents for music and art. Her innocence never comes across as false, and when it is stolen from her, her reaction is mature and realistic as well. Somerled is an obvious rake, but he grows on the reader as he comes to an understanding of his actions.
Although the novel is based on a story from the Bible and speaks of God's grace, the faith message is so subtly woven in that any reader looking for a well-told historical novel will be immediately drawn into the plot. I cannot say enough good things about this novel, which so far tops my list of most-loved books this year. Included in the back of the book is a Scottish glossary defining possibly unfamiliar terms. A reader's guide is also provided. Grace in Thine Eyes is a well-researched, engrossing tale that readers will treasure.
August 21, 2011
There are very few books that I find so totally captivating that I must read them every free moment of every day, until I get to the end. This book, this series of books, is one of them!!! I must confess that it took me two or three chapters before I finally got snagged, but WOW, when I was snagged, it was hook, line and sinker!!! Liz gives her characters such wonderfully complex lives, deepfelt emotions, and raw courageous spirits, the likes of which you don't find very often in fiction. Read this series, you will not be the least bit disappointed!!!
did-not-finish
September 6, 2019I'm annoyed because I think this could be a super intriguing story (just 'cause the MC is mute! Which is ultra levels of cool!), but on the other hand ... it's not catching my attention? I don't know. I just never cared about Dinah, so that's ... extending to this. xD Which sounds horrible, but you know.
January 6, 2021
I rather liked this book, even though at times it was hard to read. One character started out barely likeable, then did an unthinkable thing, mentally justifying it. He repented when he realized the gravity of his deed, followed with a more contrite heart as he tried to make it right. It was hard to fathom he could change so radically in a matter of hours as he did. Perhaps the heinous act wracked him with such guilt that he couldn't continue with his normal life patterns.
But then for the victim to ever trust him again, even to love him??? Just as hard to imagine.
Synopsis and spoiler...
As it turns out, the story is loosely based in Genesis 34. Davina's brothers, Sandy and Will, are based on Dinah's brothers Simeon and Levi (Jacob and Leah's children). But in the Genesis account there's no mention of forgiveness and eventual love for the violator, just that Shechem wanted what he wanted, and Dinah was it. Anyway Simeon and Levi sought revenge, as did Sandy and Will.
The book was so well written that I can't give lower than a 4. I'm not sure it's for everyone, so recommendations are difficult to make.
But then for the victim to ever trust him again, even to love him??? Just as hard to imagine.
Synopsis and spoiler...
As it turns out, the story is loosely based in Genesis 34. Davina's brothers, Sandy and Will, are based on Dinah's brothers Simeon and Levi (Jacob and Leah's children). But in the Genesis account there's no mention of forgiveness and eventual love for the violator, just that Shechem wanted what he wanted, and Dinah was it. Anyway Simeon and Levi sought revenge, as did Sandy and Will.
The book was so well written that I can't give lower than a 4. I'm not sure it's for everyone, so recommendations are difficult to make.
March 22, 2016
I have no idea how I feel about this book. As historical fiction, it reproduces a time and place pretty well. As Christian fiction, I'm not so sure. I confess I don't like books where everyone thinks in terms of Bible verses, as they seem to here. And the book was very, very slow for about the first half. Great sense of place, no real action at all. Just slow. It reminded me of George MacDonald's old-fashioned romances, except the spiritual side wasn't as well done here.
So nothing happens for a long time, and then, and I don't think this is a spoiler but be warned - an "acquaintance rape" takes place. Misunderstanding, kind of. Understandable, perhaps. But it's rape. And for the author to insinuate that a very young innocent girl can be raped by a man she just met and is infatuated with, then forgive him almost instantly, that really bothered me. She was hurt and betrayed and never really got to express any of that. She just forgave. In my experience, forgiving isn't that easy or convenient. It's an act of the will that doesn't just make the emotions go away. Is forgiving right? Of course. Is it easy? Often not.
Then the story shifts back home, and takes up the slower pace again. But this time I felt the writer got the emotions right and they were sweet and lovely. In the end, I think I didn't like this book very much. But I'm still not really sure...
So nothing happens for a long time, and then, and I don't think this is a spoiler but be warned - an "acquaintance rape" takes place. Misunderstanding, kind of. Understandable, perhaps. But it's rape. And for the author to insinuate that a very young innocent girl can be raped by a man she just met and is infatuated with, then forgive him almost instantly, that really bothered me. She was hurt and betrayed and never really got to express any of that. She just forgave. In my experience, forgiving isn't that easy or convenient. It's an act of the will that doesn't just make the emotions go away. Is forgiving right? Of course. Is it easy? Often not.
Then the story shifts back home, and takes up the slower pace again. But this time I felt the writer got the emotions right and they were sweet and lovely. In the end, I think I didn't like this book very much. But I'm still not really sure...
December 2, 2014
Grace in Thy Eyes is my most favourite story from the Lowland of Scotland series. I loved how the brothers wanted to protect their sister from harm. I loved how even though Davina was mute people still understood her because she tried to communicate with people. There were points in the book where I would get so into the story that people would start talking to me and I would go to use hand gestures (forgetting that I could talk). The one thing I didn't like is the fathers attitude towards his sons because he mad at them. I think the author could have made those parts more affectionate.
August 28, 2024
Seventeen-year-old Davina has not been able to speak since she had an accident in childhood. She does, however, play the violin masterfully. It becomes her voice and often communicates her emotions through her playing. Her twin brothers seek to protect her but they weren't present when a young man is attracted to her and takes advantage of her. It is a story of passion and revenge and there are some significant twists and turns. Will she be forever frowned upon by her community?
June 14, 2023
A good read. I have mixed feelings about how it ended which is why I didn't give it 5 stars. However, the author is really good at painting a picture with words. And I love the Scripture quotes throughout the book. Overall this book did my heart good.
November 8, 2024
As does the series before it, this book draws you in from beginning to end. So very, very moving...almost impossible to put down. I loved it!
November 4, 2025
Such depth to the characters, and a story that pulls you in from start to finish. I recommend!
June 16, 2024
I liked the scenary but Davina is cringey perfect prototype and the whole thing is horrendously morally antiquited
June 27, 2013
It is 1808 in the Scottish Lowlands, and Davina McKie lives in a world all her own. Mute since childhood, she spends her time drawing and playing her fiddle. Protected loyally by her younger twin brothers, Davina lives in security and love of her family. The twins, however, have other ideas. Unruly since they could walk, their father Jamie, finally sends them away to school hoping to make them men. Davina, left alone in Glentrool without the brothers who understood her best, has nothing but a lonely summer ahead of her. Her father suggests she visit some relatives in the isle of Arran, and Davina is more excited than she has ever been in her life.
But the summer visit in Arran is not all she thought it would be. She is invited to entertain the gentry with her fiddle, and what she thinks is an innocent accompaniment to her music becomes so much more. Ashamed at the turn of events, will there be redemption for Davina, or will a family's revenge be the end of her already shattered dreams?
This is my favorite book in the Scottish Trilogy series and it is a beautiful story of redemption and grace in the light of tragic circumstances. The character development is slow and patient, not fast and hurried, and I really felt as if I was walking in Davina's shoes. I saw things through her eyes, in that time, that place, that moment. A wonderful book and recommended if you can enjoy a story without the fairly tale ending.
But the summer visit in Arran is not all she thought it would be. She is invited to entertain the gentry with her fiddle, and what she thinks is an innocent accompaniment to her music becomes so much more. Ashamed at the turn of events, will there be redemption for Davina, or will a family's revenge be the end of her already shattered dreams?
This is my favorite book in the Scottish Trilogy series and it is a beautiful story of redemption and grace in the light of tragic circumstances. The character development is slow and patient, not fast and hurried, and I really felt as if I was walking in Davina's shoes. I saw things through her eyes, in that time, that place, that moment. A wonderful book and recommended if you can enjoy a story without the fairly tale ending.
November 1, 2010
Swept away to 19th century Scotland with characters that seem like I know them, this story made me weep and reflect on life in many ways. The heroine, Davina McKie, experienced an accident in childhood that left her mute. She communicates with with people through gestures, expressions, and writing words in her sketchbook. She has two over-protective brothers who feel guilty for her accident.
When Davina is sent to the island of Arran to visit with distant family, she meets the rogue, Somerled McDonald, a wealthy heir. They share a love of music and an attraction that will forever change Davina's life. Without giving away story, I'll suffice it to say that Davina becomes a victim of the man she loves, a bitter betrayal by her brothers, the whole island, and the village of people where she had grown up--and all the while innocent. She forgives, grieves, forgives, grieves, and finally healing comes--and with it a new love begins.
This book is wonderful, historically accurate, with deep and heart-felt characters, a plot that is thick and ripe with conflict and realistic circumstances. You will really enjoy "Grace in Thine Eyes".
When Davina is sent to the island of Arran to visit with distant family, she meets the rogue, Somerled McDonald, a wealthy heir. They share a love of music and an attraction that will forever change Davina's life. Without giving away story, I'll suffice it to say that Davina becomes a victim of the man she loves, a bitter betrayal by her brothers, the whole island, and the village of people where she had grown up--and all the while innocent. She forgives, grieves, forgives, grieves, and finally healing comes--and with it a new love begins.
This book is wonderful, historically accurate, with deep and heart-felt characters, a plot that is thick and ripe with conflict and realistic circumstances. You will really enjoy "Grace in Thine Eyes".
October 1, 2013
After reading Thorn in My Heart, Fairer is the Rose, and Whence Comes a Prince, I was really excited about getting to read Grace in Thine Eyes. It is another really good story from Mrs. Higgs. I will admit that I did not love it as much as I loved the first three books, but I did love it nonetheless.
The story took plot twists that I really never saw coming. I was so shocked at the things that transpired in the book and that is something that I truly love in a book: shock me. let me believe I know what's coming and the shock me!
The story is based on the life of "Dinah" in the Bible and while I don't know how accurate it is when you compare the two, it will at least get people interested in reading the real story of Dinah and getting people interested in the Bible is really the important thing. I would recommend this book to my friends and I recommend it to you all.
The story took plot twists that I really never saw coming. I was so shocked at the things that transpired in the book and that is something that I truly love in a book: shock me. let me believe I know what's coming and the shock me!
The story is based on the life of "Dinah" in the Bible and while I don't know how accurate it is when you compare the two, it will at least get people interested in reading the real story of Dinah and getting people interested in the Bible is really the important thing. I would recommend this book to my friends and I recommend it to you all.
June 17, 2012
I've read other books by Liz Curtis Higgs, so I don't know why I wasn't surprised when this book turned out to be different than I expected. I have to confess I was thinking, "Yawn. A predictable romance" when I turned the page and the book completely changed. Wow! I had not read about the book before I read it, other than the back cover, but I quickly figured out this is a retelling of a story from the Old Testament. (I won't tell you which one - it will take away some of the mystery!) Suffice it to say that this is a great read, very well researched, with characters I enjoyed meeting. It takes place in 1807. If you like historical fiction, this is a good one. The message is one worth remembering too!
April 20, 2013
The beginning of this book was AMAZING!! I loved that Davina was a fantastic fiddler, she had three brothers who loved her dearly, and even though she couldn't speak, she had found her own voice for communicating. I LOVED!! Then, half way through, BAM! She was defiled by a man and was ruined. It was awful. Then, Will and Sandy had to avenge their sister by taking Somerled and his father up a very chancy mountain. Poof, "unintentionally" they fell and died. The boys were regretful after that, but it didn't change the fact that Davina had no one to marry her in her ruined state. At the end though, Graham Webster told her he loved her and would wait until her heart was mended. It was okay. But I didn't like how it all played out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2016
Liz Curtis Higgs wrote Grace in Thine Eyes
I have just finished reading this one and was so thrilled to find at the end that the lady was taken from Dinah in the bible,story is in Genesis 34-just goes to show everything has been done before eons ago. Today is a replay -of yesterday....
Sept is fleeing fast so I had better finish this review. I loved the story.
Davinia McKie is a gifted violin player, she lets it do her speaking for her as she has been mute since a terrible accident in her youth.
This is a timeless story of passion and revenge, of a lost innocence and shattered dreams.
This book explores the sorrow of unspeakable shame and the gift of immeasurable Grace.
March 22, 2015
Excellent book! Great follow up to the trilogy, but can stand alone, too. Well written and follows biblical account (more accurate than Red Tent). Be sure to read Author's Notes at end - explains her approach and makes book even more meaningful.
Highly recommend for fans of biblical or historical fiction.
Highly recommend for fans of biblical or historical fiction.
September 2, 2014
I may try and find time this winter to read all of these again - this one was particularly bitter sweet (in my opinion).
February 20, 2025
Every now and then a book comes along that's so well done that it reminds me how silly most of the books I read are, and recently I've come across TWO of them: Lynn Austin's "Waves of Mercy" and this book, Liz Curtis Higgs "Grace in Thine Eyes."
This book has made me want to attempt other books by the author again.
I have had mixed feelings about Liz Curtis Higgs' books. I've loved her comedy (and her stand-up comedy, for that matter.) I've been a little more concerned about her Bible studies, for reasons I no longer remember, and her modernizing of Bible stories troubles me in ways I can't describe, because they add to scripture things that were not intended.
This book, too, is a loose retelling of Dinah and her brothers in Genesis 34 as if it had happened in 1808. Although I didn't know the story drew on the Biblical one when I read it, I could tell where the story was headed. I didn't recognize the pieces of dialog as coming from that story, but they did. I liked the author's note at the end comparing the two stories.
This book was so well written, with so much insight to the characters. It really is a people story. But it has such dark themes that it's somewhere between a 3-star and a 4-star review for me. 4-stars are that I've thoroughly enjoyed them, and I can't truly enjoy some of THIS, but then again, the writing is so good. A 5-star review would be a reread, and I doubt I'd reread it.
Simply put, this is a rape story, and a story of revenge on the rapist by the victim's brothers. It isn't graphic, but it is graphic enough.
Things I loved: the character arcs, the character description, that the story took place in Scotland, the way the characters wove scripture into their thoughts, both for hope and for grief, Davina's music. That description of music was amazing, as was the artwork. I loved the recognition that healing from grief takes awhile. I loved how Davina's mother reassured her and held her for so long, without words, and how when she did speak, she spoke gentle, reassuring truths. I loved the topic of forgiveness, particularly between father and sons regarding Davina's safety.
Things I didn't like: Well, the rape scene, of course, but I realize without it, there wouldn't have been much of a plot.
It's very unlikely that a rapist fall in love with his victim. It's more likely they show the victim contempt, or they exult in their power over the other, demeaning them.
However, the author tried to stick to the vague outline of the Biblical story, and Shechem did fall in love with Dinah after the rape. Liz Curtis Higgs managed to portray this in a believable way.
I also find it highly unlikely that a rape victim would fall in love with her rapist. We are not told if Dinah did, but Liz Curtis Higgs drew Davina falling for her rapist, who suddenly turned gentle and wooed her.
Women didn't have many choices in those times.
There is a big difference between forgiveness and trust, and I felt that Davina would've had a harder time with trust. Also, Somerled was equally as ridiculously trusting with Davina's brothers. I could see that one coming a mile off.
I agree with the reviewer that said that Mr. Graham was the real hero.
Favorite quotes:
From the father to the mother, packing for a child: "And have you tucked your heart among our daughter's gowns?" Why yes, I'm sure she had.
"The day will come, Davina, when sorrow and mourning shall flee away. Until then, let your heart mend. And let those who love you bind your wounds as best we can."
"Solitude can be a remedy, and silence an even better one."
"Never apologize for tears, lass. they are so precious to God, he stores them in a bottle for safekeeping."
"Twill be good to have our friends there with us. For I believe we shall need every one of them."
"Gossips prefer savory lies to dry facts."
This book has made me want to attempt other books by the author again.
I have had mixed feelings about Liz Curtis Higgs' books. I've loved her comedy (and her stand-up comedy, for that matter.) I've been a little more concerned about her Bible studies, for reasons I no longer remember, and her modernizing of Bible stories troubles me in ways I can't describe, because they add to scripture things that were not intended.
This book, too, is a loose retelling of Dinah and her brothers in Genesis 34 as if it had happened in 1808. Although I didn't know the story drew on the Biblical one when I read it, I could tell where the story was headed. I didn't recognize the pieces of dialog as coming from that story, but they did. I liked the author's note at the end comparing the two stories.
This book was so well written, with so much insight to the characters. It really is a people story. But it has such dark themes that it's somewhere between a 3-star and a 4-star review for me. 4-stars are that I've thoroughly enjoyed them, and I can't truly enjoy some of THIS, but then again, the writing is so good. A 5-star review would be a reread, and I doubt I'd reread it.
Simply put, this is a rape story, and a story of revenge on the rapist by the victim's brothers. It isn't graphic, but it is graphic enough.
Things I loved: the character arcs, the character description, that the story took place in Scotland, the way the characters wove scripture into their thoughts, both for hope and for grief, Davina's music. That description of music was amazing, as was the artwork. I loved the recognition that healing from grief takes awhile. I loved how Davina's mother reassured her and held her for so long, without words, and how when she did speak, she spoke gentle, reassuring truths. I loved the topic of forgiveness, particularly between father and sons regarding Davina's safety.
Things I didn't like: Well, the rape scene, of course, but I realize without it, there wouldn't have been much of a plot.
It's very unlikely that a rapist fall in love with his victim. It's more likely they show the victim contempt, or they exult in their power over the other, demeaning them.
However, the author tried to stick to the vague outline of the Biblical story, and Shechem did fall in love with Dinah after the rape. Liz Curtis Higgs managed to portray this in a believable way.
I also find it highly unlikely that a rape victim would fall in love with her rapist. We are not told if Dinah did, but Liz Curtis Higgs drew Davina falling for her rapist, who suddenly turned gentle and wooed her.
Women didn't have many choices in those times.
There is a big difference between forgiveness and trust, and I felt that Davina would've had a harder time with trust. Also, Somerled was equally as ridiculously trusting with Davina's brothers. I could see that one coming a mile off.
I agree with the reviewer that said that Mr. Graham was the real hero.
Favorite quotes:
From the father to the mother, packing for a child: "And have you tucked your heart among our daughter's gowns?" Why yes, I'm sure she had.
"The day will come, Davina, when sorrow and mourning shall flee away. Until then, let your heart mend. And let those who love you bind your wounds as best we can."
"Solitude can be a remedy, and silence an even better one."
"Never apologize for tears, lass. they are so precious to God, he stores them in a bottle for safekeeping."
"Twill be good to have our friends there with us. For I believe we shall need every one of them."
"Gossips prefer savory lies to dry facts."
September 11, 2017
Probably my favorite of the series, though they are all great. I'm impressed that the author based this on a Bible character, one I knew little about, and made it work so well. You can almost see the sketchbook, the watercolors, the mountain, and the characters. You sense the ugliness in the judgmentalism of the townfolk and the frustration the twins experience when things don't go as they think they should, as well as the kindness in loving hearts.
This may be my only trip to Arran, but it was worth it!
So read it! Nice to have read the others preceding it, but I think it's a stand-alone, as well.
This may be my only trip to Arran, but it was worth it!
So read it! Nice to have read the others preceding it, but I think it's a stand-alone, as well.
August 24, 2022
I loved how Davina had no voice, which is so symbolic of women who’ve been abused. Her violin, artwork, and sketchbook to communicate was brilliant. I never felt like anything was missed. It’s also accurate how though she’s abused she still loves Somerled. I’ve seen too many people walk this sad road. I liked that he came to his end, but had mixed feelings because I liked her and liked how he was changing. Grace and love are powerful. But I of course hated the brothers. This one is a lovely solid conclusion and you get Jamie and Leana all grown up. Sad to see this series end, but also relieved to give my heart a rest.
August 11, 2024
I must say that Liz Curtis Higgs is one of my VERY favorite writers, speakers, teachers. I have read every book she has written for adults (this was my very last book of hers to read). I am sorry to say, that I did not save the best for last. I didn’t know who/what the book was about before I purchased it…just that it was another Liz book that I couldn’t wait to read. I didn’t even put it together while I was reading the book! Only in the author’s comments at the end of the book when it was talked about did I “get it”. Had I known, I MIGHT have liked it better, but not sure. I was almost half way through before it “grabbed” me at all (if it had been any other author, I wouldn’t have continued the read). Too many details, too many characters, too much of a struggle to finish. The only endearing part of the book is the actual message…there is ALWAYS grace at the foot of the cross!
October 12, 2017
This was an amazing series. It took my emotions in every direction. I warn it includes anger and tears! Beautiful writing. Though the theme was familiar of a Genesis family if you know that book well, Ms Higgs takes you so deep into the lives of her characters, she keeps you on the edge of your seat and diverts you enough from the Scriptures to keep you guessing with eager page turning. I look forward to her future books with great eagerness. Recommend this series to all! You won't regret it. It's quite an adventure.
January 3, 2025
As a modern retelling of the story of Dinah - this book is not for the faint of heart; nor the young. And yet it is beautiful. Davina is a 17-year-old noblewoman in Scotland in 1808. This setting allows for Higgs to weave a beautiful message of grace and redemption. Davina's story ends with hope (although not an entirely happy ending since we do not know Dinah's ending). Higgs manages the grief and tragedy of this story with grace and sensitivity. It is a well-written book and well worth the read.
July 28, 2019
Liz Curtis Higgs has an incredible way of writing. She makes washing your hands sound interesting my gosh. The ONLY problem I had with this particular book was I could not sympathize with Davina. I just think there is NO WAY she would fall for the main love interest. He went too far.
But, on the other side of the coin I found it interesting exploring a young impressionable woman and how she handles being raped and how others treat her and are affected.
But, on the other side of the coin I found it interesting exploring a young impressionable woman and how she handles being raped and how others treat her and are affected.
April 8, 2021
This was such a difficult book to read. Maybe I should have done a bit more research before I started, but I didn't realize that I would be reading a (to put it bluntly).
Everything ends happily, but I wish her happy ending would have been drawn out a bit longer :) the man she ends out with seems like such an amazing guy, but we never really got to spend enough time with him, you're just left to assume you they fall in love.
Book 2?
Everything ends happily, but I wish her happy ending would have been drawn out a bit longer :) the man she ends out with seems like such an amazing guy, but we never really got to spend enough time with him, you're just left to assume you they fall in love.
Book 2?
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