The ground shook and a rumble sounded through the air as the train squealed to a stop. Maybe, just maybe, I could carry someone’s bags without the porter taking notice. And then there was the even bigger maybe: Maybe I could get enough money to at least buy a crust of bread for Trevor and Tabitha to share. I hid behind the boxes in the freight yard and kept one eye on the porter, and the other on the second class passenger car. The porter had his attention on the first class car, so I slipped into the gathering crowd.
Titus Hines has always taken care of others. First in protecting his brother and sister from the men his mother entertained. Even more so after her death, when the townspeople refused to help the orphans of a town prostitute. He’s been protector and provider, despite the hardships. He’s learned that no one will help, no one cares and if he wants to survive he’ll have to rely on his own strength not just for himself but his family as well.
Then a stranger shows him the kindness and help no one else seems willing to. Between her kindness and the lecture she gives the Christian Leaders, Titus’s life takes an unexpected turn for the better. With help and provision from the local believers things should be easier, his burdens are lifted. So why does it feel like life is spinning out of control?
Can Titus learn that while man may fail him there is One who will never fail? Can he learn to allow God to be the Shepherd of his life and lead him? Or will life continue to push him every which way?
Faith Blum is a wife, mom, administrative assistant for the Author Conservatory, author, and pianist. She’s published 30+ adventurous historical fiction books featuring realistic romance that strengthens your Christian faith. She has received an honorable mention in the Reader’s Favorite awards. When not writing, you can find her cooking from scratch, reading, spending time with her husband, or chasing her toddler.
Ever since their mother died, Titus has been taking care of his younger brother and sister. It wasn’t easy when the whole town viewed them as trash and wouldn’t hire them because of their mom’s unsavory reputation. But when a stranger shows Titus kindness, she starts a chain of events that starts all three children down a path of redemption and acceptance.
Savior, Like a Shepherd is the first of the Orphans of the West Series by Faith Blum. It may be a new series, but a few of the characters from Blum’s other novels make appearances. However, this novel takes the series in a different direction than the previous ones. It is a story of orphaned children as they grow into adulthood amidst the trials of the West. Faith plays a significant role in the story, as Titus, especially, learns to trust not only God but humanity as a whole after being shunned as a child. It was a sweet story of redemption, with a few snatches of danger, friendship, and romance. There are a couple Big Reveals and even more soul-searching. The story portrays different kinds of prejudice and combats them as well as it can in a short novel that does not dig too deeply into the hardest themes. My main critiques are that I had a little bit of trouble really getting into the narrator, Titus’, thoughts and that the story did not focus on a central goal or purpose. It reads more like a memoir or biography, following the life of the main character from childhood to adulthood rather than having a personal goal for the characters to achieve, enemies to conquer, or a romance to develop into marriage.
Still, I would gladly recommend this novel to fans of sweet historical fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All opinions are expressly my own.
I’m not sure what I think of orphan stories, but Savior, Like a Shepherd was an interesting introduction to a relatively new series from Faith Blum. There are many reasons why children can end up orphaned, and in the situation in this book, a young boy is left in charge of his two younger siblings. There is a stain on their family name, due to what their mother had done to earn enough money to keep them alive, and few in the community will help the family out.
I struggled to get into this story, although once I was about half-way it gripped my attention enough that I was able to finish it in good time. One of the main reasons I enjoy reading books like this is being able to ask myself what kind of response I would give to someone in those circumstances? Ideally, I know what I’d like to do—but if it would actually happen? I don’t know.
This would be a great story for someone looking for a clean historical fiction read. Unfortunately, I felt like it lacked some depth, both in the plot and perhaps spiritually—whether that was my perception or an actuality, I don’t know. But I would feel comfortable handing this to an early teen as a good read. (There is one scene in chapter 27 that some parents might want to know about, but otherwise it’s fine.)
I am looking forward to the next book in the series—I suspect it will be good, as well!
I requested a review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.
3 stars. I wasn’t sure if I would like this book, but was quickly sucked in. Although the writing style isn’t very 1800s-ish and not really a style I enjoy, it is very easy and quick to read, which is nice. The characters were interesting, especially Titus, and the plot was intriguing, though I felt some things were slightly underdeveloped (but that could be me being nitpicky). I felt like the whole outlaw thing was confusing, but the rest of the stuff was wrapped up well and explained pretty well, and all the time hops were well done. The whole part of Titus’ mother being a woman of the night was referred to many times in many ways (like him recognizing a lot of the guys in church as having “used Ma”). It wasn’t minced about, even with the little kids. I personally would have enjoyed the book much more without all that addition; but it was pretty tastefully done, although I wouldn’t hand it to someone under 18. However, the Pastor had a good point about the way to break the cycle of men going to women like that being by reaching the children. Also, the themes/messages were well done.
A Favourite Quote: “In Romans 10:14-15 it says, ‘How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!” I would add one more question: How are we to have beautiful feet if we are judgmental and prideful when we preach?” A Favourite Humorous Quote: Then the mansion came into view and my eyes refused to stray from it. The outside looked different somehow. What was it? The windows were the same, as were the yard, color, and trees. “The curtains!” I exclaimed as we started up the walk. “That’s what’s so different. They’re open and what you can see is lighter in color.” Pa grinned, something he had been doing more often. “Very good. I’ve had a few people stop by simply to ask why the house looks so different. I’m afraid Albert is a little annoyed by the question. I wouldn’t be surprised if someday soon he puts up a sign that says, ‘It’s the curtains.’”
Savior, Like a Shepherd is the first book in Faith Blum's new Orphans of the West series. The book focuses on Titus, a boy who has been ignored and left to fend for himself and his younger siblings. The story follows his life as he learns to rely on God and those around him as he and his siblings grow up.
Anyone who is a fan of Faith's books or enjoys reading sweet historical fiction will love this new series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
There isn't much historical fiction that I'll rate two stars, much less Christian historical fiction. But ... there were quite a few issues.
The issue probably easiest to discuss was the characters, since good ones will easily make me like a book, even if the rest is mediocre. But I never became attached to the narrator, Titus, nor his siblings. I felt their personalities weren't developed enough. I never really knew how Titus felt about some things, or his reaction to them. He was just recording the facts. All the characters seemed bland. Tabitha probably would have gotten on my nerves if she was developed any. As it was, there was only one example of her rebellious state, and then she just reformed--but there were barely any examples of that, either. Trevor, too, was pretty bland. One thing I knew about him was his love of books. Other than that, not too much. No quirks, no humor, no mentions of his appearance. Basically no details. Even the deputy--and I usually love law enforcement--fell a little flat.
The plot didn't have much structure. The whole story took place for all of Titus' childhood, and there was no clear thread holding it all together. It had an interesting storyline for about a quarter of the story, and then that ended. (I probably shouldn't criticize this too much, since that's basically how I'm writing my series) Then another interesting part took up more of the book, and then that got wrapped up in a nice bow. The story jumped a few years, some things happened, and then more years were skipped. I didn't have a real good sense of time, and Titus didn't seem to age much.
One thing that seemed really out of place was the use of alarm clocks. I guess they were in common use by 1885, but I kind of doubt a rural town would have them. In the olden days, people could wake up on their own mighty fine. It just felt too modern to me.
Speaking of a rural town, I never really understood why Ezra--and later Titus--was so wealthy. Helping repair slums doesn't seem like the most lucrative business, and it was never detailed much about what they did, even though it was a pretty major part of the story. I usually don't need to know what people's work specifically entails; however, in this case, it seemed missing.
Because Titus wasn't much developed, the faith aspect seemed forced and unrealistic. Titus' background, with being an orphan, didn't seem to have a factor in his decisions, and his faith journey seemed rushed and perfect all of a sudden, even though he would obviously need time to grow in his newfound faith. It's not that it didn't happen, but since there was a lot of telling instead of showing, I didn't really see it. I did like Ezra's hesitance to believe, though.
Another aspect I did like was Titus' 'romance'. Though I love a good romance, I was expecting Titus to marry someone in particular. I'm glad the book wasn't very predictable in that sense, and it was a good twist not a lot of books have.
I really did want to like this book. I usually can't go wrong with Christian historical fiction, but this, on the whole, was too choppy and bland.
As with many of Faith's books, I love making the connections from one story to another. Being introduced to Titus, I was happy to read his story. The incorporation of the hymn completely warmed me. I loved how Faith portrayed Titus first hearing it! The sibling/family story was very sweet.
I had a hard time finding Titus' purpose throughout the novel. It seemed more of story just following Titus' life, as his goals changed throughout the novel. There were also a few subplots thrown in there that took a second for me to get adjusted to. Which, if you like that style, isn't a problem.
As always, I appreciated the spiritual aspects in this book. Very solid. And, there was very little romance mentioned in this book. More match-making than anything (which, I thought was kinda cute).
*I received an eBook from the author and happily gave my review*
I had the privilege of beta-reading this for the author. Faith Blum has created a captivating tale about a young boy, Titus, and his two siblings; how they were adopted off the streets into a loving family, taught to read and write and work, and, above all, taught about God. The story follows them as they grow up, and face new struggles and learn new lessons daily. A very enjoyable read, recommended to ages 14+.
*I received a copy from the author for an honest review*
Faith writes with a lot of heart. I got drawn into the story quite quickly. I would recommend Savior, Like A Shepherd for YA readers and above who are looking for clean, good Christian fiction.
Titus, the main character, is my favorite. I've read books of a similar kind where everything just falls together nicely, which actually makes it hard to believe. This one had just enough hard spots and rough edges that I was able to get really involved and cheer for the characters, feeling their pain and distress. I loved Ezra; he's got such a big heart. Tabitha and Trevor are both unique, distinctive characters.
Faith tactfully and gracefully talked about the challenging subject of prostitution and consequences thereof - mainly the failings of the church in responding to it - while keeping it clean and something I would still give my littler sisters to read.
I had a hard time following the time line at the end - there was a lot of empty space. However, in a novella, you can't cover an entire life. So I didn't mind, much.
Would definitely pick up other works by this author.
It was a fun book to read. It read smooth and quick because the writing, story, and characters were well written. It had enough intrigue, charm, and problems to keep me wanting to know what happened next. The Western boy adventures never felt too heavy but always positive or going in a positive direction.
The cast of characters was diverse, believable, and likable.
The story was good. It was plot driven, and new problems kept coming that paced the story well.
Room for improvement
The spiritual aspects sometimes felt like they came a little too easy to be believable. God and spirituality were well represented, but the rapid and full change in Titus wasn't so believable.
Sometimes Titus and his brother and sister seemed older than they were said to be.
Since most of the book felt like a middle grade boy adventure, the last few chapters that summarize what happened when the siblings grew up felt like a different story for a different audience.
Overall: A fun, positive Christian book full of hope and adventure
The idea was a good one, and I liked the characters I was supposed to like. What ruined the book for me was the flat dialogue. It is the kind I would probably write if I tried to write fiction, and that's why I don't try to write fiction.
Basic story is that a homeless orphan boy whose parents are both believed dead does his best to care for and support his brothers and sisters after their mother died. He was considered illegitimate so he and his siblings were treated by the community as white trash. He worked hard to earn money by carrying baggage for arriving train passengers who would hire him. A chance encounter with one of those passengers led to his finding a home for himself and his siblings with the local pastor and his wife.
Later the boy earns that his father is really alive, and children all move in with him. The book follows the children as they grow up. I don't want to say anymore because that would give away too much.
Most books I lay down, I never return to. I laid this one down, but then came back to it daily until finished. I didn't want to leave the story and credit its magnetism to the lead character. I won't tell any spoilers, but this person represents my conception of those who built the USA upon a foundation of character and ethics in the midst of indifference and self-interest. No glamor, no big egos. A handful of great people, another handful of scoundrels, and the vast majority just trying to keep body and soul together. I have rarely been so taken by a character e.g. Jack Aubrey, Steven Maturin, Huck Finn. I highly recommend it to anyone struggling to understand what is in short supply in today's world.
Nice story with promise. This appears to be a young author, which you can feel in the writing style. It's lacking in depth and understanding which will come with life experience. Good principles at play, but the story is predictable, characters are not as fully developed as they need to be, there's very little in the way of descriptive writing to enrich the setting, and every thing works out quickly and easily to the perfect resolution. Even the very hard situations resolve very simply. Transitions are rather awkward. I think it would read better if it were all written in 3rd person rather than part 1st person and part 3rd. Sometimes an author can add even more introspection and insight when writing in 3rd person as an objective observer of a character's behavior.
This is a story about people who need love, people who think they love and people who learn to love only to see the results from acts of love. Readers will have to find out for themselves what happens as three needy youths grow into adults. This is an inspiring novel that makes me want to be more aware of those who need love. I highly recommend this story by Faith Glum for any age!
Absolute wonderful book. I couldn't put it down and was up until 2 a.m. finishing it. Just didn't want to leave it till today to finish. I think the story was great and believable for the times. I would highly recommend it to anyone. Hope you read it and enjoy it as much as I did. I will keep Faith Blum on my list of writers to follow.
Savior Like A Shepherd is a very uplifting story about love and God's love.
From the very beginning i couldn't put the book down. You get caught up in the people's lives as if they were your own. Story about faith and trust in God's provisions. In God's time He always takes care of you.
Story line full of hope. Good characters. Good morals. Good faith. Minor concern of anachronism of a buzzing alarm clock. Or hymn misquote used several times that would have made better sense in the story if it used the words I found when I checked a hymn book. I felt good about reading a nice story. Jeanne (not Peter)
Three orphans, held together by the eldest brother, find a better life by finding Jesus, and relying on His Support. Very likeable protagonists, a good plot and a good narration make this a delight to read. Though I still would like to know why exactly the Sheriff acted the way he did... A very enjoyable Christian story.
Was impressed with the detail, portrayals of the different classes and their interactions and the character growth that happened when some people started living as Christians who actually followed God's word. Not so much a traditional love story but one of lives eventually filled with love. Looking forward to more from the author.
I enjoyed this book about 3 orphans, the oldest of which eventually finds his birth father in a town that has treated them badly because they were illegitimate. It’s a story of how God got ahold of their hearts, how the town pastor and his wife took them in, until the oldest found his birth father, who eventually legally adopted all 3.
This book has a strong Christian message. It was a different sort of mystery, but was more a portrait of a family and society. The mystery was weak and more of an undercurrent. The story was set in post civil war Nebraska.
Main character seemed a little unbelievable because of his maturity level but still good read. Blue writes with the ability to allow you to experience the emotions of her characters. Enjoyable!
This book was written about orphans that got a chance to find a father and enjoyed life. Becoming well educated and married with children. Enjoyed reading this book..
Such a touching and heart gripping story as three young kids are left alone and totally shunned by the whole town. A twelve year old who takes responsibility for his younger brother and sister finds something he never expected . Loved this book.
This story was kind of hard to believe. There were a lot of thongs that didn't seem possible, especially for the time period in history, but also for the age of the characters, etc.
Just a couple of historical errors, but easily forgiven. It's easy for the reader to get involved in the character's lives, and that fact makes this book hard to put down.
This book starts with a grim outlook didn't hear three orphaned children. All hope seems loss, but the kindness of a stranger changes things . This book goes through so much time and growth for the children who we watch marry and have children. Wonderful book