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Here Burns My Candle #1
Here Burns My Candle
A mother who cannot face her future.
A daughter who cannot escape her past.
Lady Elisabeth Kerr is a keeper of secrets. A Highlander by birth and a Lowlander by marriage, she honors the auld ways, even as doubts and fears stir deep within her.
Her husband, Lord Donald, has secrets of his own, well hidden from the household, yet whispered among the town gossips.
His mother, the dowager Lady Marjory, hides gold beneath her floor and guilt inside her heart. Though her two abiding passions are maintaining her place in society and coddling her grown sons, Marjory’s many regrets, buried in Greyfriars Churchyard, continue to plague her.
One by one the Kerr family secrets begin to surface, even as bonny Prince Charlie and his rebel army ride into Edinburgh in September 1745, intent on capturing the crown.
A timeless story of love and betrayal, loss and redemption, flickering against the vivid backdrop of eighteenth-century Scotland, Here Burns My Candle illumines the dark side of human nature, even as hope, the brightest of tapers, lights the way home.
A daughter who cannot escape her past.
Lady Elisabeth Kerr is a keeper of secrets. A Highlander by birth and a Lowlander by marriage, she honors the auld ways, even as doubts and fears stir deep within her.
Her husband, Lord Donald, has secrets of his own, well hidden from the household, yet whispered among the town gossips.
His mother, the dowager Lady Marjory, hides gold beneath her floor and guilt inside her heart. Though her two abiding passions are maintaining her place in society and coddling her grown sons, Marjory’s many regrets, buried in Greyfriars Churchyard, continue to plague her.
One by one the Kerr family secrets begin to surface, even as bonny Prince Charlie and his rebel army ride into Edinburgh in September 1745, intent on capturing the crown.
A timeless story of love and betrayal, loss and redemption, flickering against the vivid backdrop of eighteenth-century Scotland, Here Burns My Candle illumines the dark side of human nature, even as hope, the brightest of tapers, lights the way home.
454 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
169 people are currently reading
2868 people want to read
About the author
Liz Curtis Higgs
78 books1,440 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 362 reviews
January 16, 2013
This is basically the story of Ruth (from the bible) but set in Scotland in the 1700s during the Jacobite rising. I usually love historical fiction but couldn't even finish this book (did read about 200 pages). It moved too slowly, none of the characters were very likeable (or relateable), and the author writing the characters speaking in actual Scottish dialect drove me a little crazy (ie, writing out bricht instead of bright- why?! Is it not enough for the reader to imagine the accent in our heads?)
November 16, 2017
Once again, I didn't read enough of the synopsis to get that this is (very) loosely based on the book of Ruth, and it didn't hit me until the last couple of chapters.
Set in Edinburgh, Scotland, siding with bonnie Prince Charlie who is bent on taking his rightful throne, widow Lady Marjory and her daughters-in-law (Lady Elisabeth Kerr and Janet) are left in a hostile town after her sons enlist.
If you know the book of Ruth, you know what happens, but this book is FAR more detailed and FAR longer, seemingly interminable in fact. Kudos to the author for adding history in an enjoyable way; not just facts like a history lesson, but woven into the story line in letters, conversations, or reports from soldiers and decrees handed down.
One daughter-in-law is likeable, the other not so much. Mother-in-law Marjory is a typical higher society lady who looks down her nose at anyone in the working class, but learns to soften her stance from Elisabeth, who takes on responsibilities when their finances dwindle during the war.
Part of me liked this book, the historical fiction lover in me, but it was slow, with unnecessary detail making the book drag. I listened to the audio version of the book which was read by the author herself. That was a real treat. So, as for the audio: 4 1/2-stars. As for the book: 3-stars.
Set in Edinburgh, Scotland, siding with bonnie Prince Charlie who is bent on taking his rightful throne, widow Lady Marjory and her daughters-in-law (Lady Elisabeth Kerr and Janet) are left in a hostile town after her sons enlist.
If you know the book of Ruth, you know what happens, but this book is FAR more detailed and FAR longer, seemingly interminable in fact. Kudos to the author for adding history in an enjoyable way; not just facts like a history lesson, but woven into the story line in letters, conversations, or reports from soldiers and decrees handed down.
One daughter-in-law is likeable, the other not so much. Mother-in-law Marjory is a typical higher society lady who looks down her nose at anyone in the working class, but learns to soften her stance from Elisabeth, who takes on responsibilities when their finances dwindle during the war.
Part of me liked this book, the historical fiction lover in me, but it was slow, with unnecessary detail making the book drag. I listened to the audio version of the book which was read by the author herself. That was a real treat. So, as for the audio: 4 1/2-stars. As for the book: 3-stars.
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September 30, 2024
Donald cheats on his wife lots of times and he even writes down the names of all the women he cheated on her with for her to read! She does forgive him and he DIES! Like what? Terrible book! 😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2022
Slow paced, with cheating and I didn't connect with the characters at all. The first chapter had promise, but the chapters that followed, while keeping historical details close to the Jacobites war interesting and accurate, we're slow, drawn out and predictable. Donald, the main character + cheater, annoyed me to no end. Every woman was concerned about her appearance it seemed and I dnf'd it at 50 pages in. I just couldn't find the interest to keep pressing on. Definitely won't continue. 2 ⭐
July 31, 2018
Review to come....
October 30, 2020
This was such a pleasant surprise for me. I normally don't care for historical fiction, but this was a loose retelling of Naomi and Ruth so I was hopefully. I definitely am giving this a 4.5 star rating. I was thoroughly hooked on the story from beginning to end. I felt the feels.
Elisabeth is such a strong woman! She is truly a Ruth in every aspect. She is strong, determined, faithful, loving, kind -- she bears every fruit of the spirit. She was my favorite character in the story. Seeing her belief waver in her god and her begin to hunger for the True God was amazing. I adored her.
Donald was the husband of Elisabeth and the Lord of the Kerr family. As much as I enjoyed him, he pissed me off with his excuses and unfaithfulness. He was a man easily ensnared by the beauty of a woman. A man that found it hard to stop his habits. He was respected by many, but his secret sins cost him so much.
Marjory annoyed me with how rude she was toward Elisabeth, but seeing her humble herself was amazing. Marjory was a hard woman to please and was so used to her lifestyle that she began to truly forget God.
Andrew was a great guy, but there wasn't too much of him for me to truly like or dislike. Janet was absolutely frustrating as heck. I disliked her from beginning to end. I couldn't stand her one bit. She was fake beyond words.
I loved the faith aspects and the scriptures used. This was such a fantastic Christian historical fiction, so much so that I will be diving into the sequel, Mine Is the Night, in November. I will also be reading more from Liz Curtis Higgs!!
I highly recommend this if you are okay with the 1700s.
Elisabeth is such a strong woman! She is truly a Ruth in every aspect. She is strong, determined, faithful, loving, kind -- she bears every fruit of the spirit. She was my favorite character in the story. Seeing her belief waver in her god and her begin to hunger for the True God was amazing. I adored her.
Donald was the husband of Elisabeth and the Lord of the Kerr family. As much as I enjoyed him, he pissed me off with his excuses and unfaithfulness. He was a man easily ensnared by the beauty of a woman. A man that found it hard to stop his habits. He was respected by many, but his secret sins cost him so much.
Marjory annoyed me with how rude she was toward Elisabeth, but seeing her humble herself was amazing. Marjory was a hard woman to please and was so used to her lifestyle that she began to truly forget God.
Andrew was a great guy, but there wasn't too much of him for me to truly like or dislike. Janet was absolutely frustrating as heck. I disliked her from beginning to end. I couldn't stand her one bit. She was fake beyond words.
I loved the faith aspects and the scriptures used. This was such a fantastic Christian historical fiction, so much so that I will be diving into the sequel, Mine Is the Night, in November. I will also be reading more from Liz Curtis Higgs!!
I highly recommend this if you are okay with the 1700s.
March 17, 2021
Here Burns My Candle is the first book of two loosely based on the story of Ruth set in 18th century Scotland. I love historical fiction (history major here!) and enjoy how Liz Curtis Higgs combines historical events with biblical stories. (She also has an even more wonderful Scottish series about Jacob, Rachel, and Leah that I revisit even more often!) The novel primarily follows Lady Elisabeth Kerr, a commoner from the Highlands, and her mother-in-law the Dowager Lady Marjory Kerr, a high bred Lowlander, as they navigate life during the time of the Jacobite uprising. As the two Kerr men in their lives throw their support behind Bonnie Prince Charlie and his efforts to reclaim the throne for the Stuarts, the Kerr family’s life is forever changed.
A favorite of mine from my college days, I come back Here Burns My Candle every 3 years or so. I decided to listen to the book this time rather than read it for the umpteenth time. Despite being a bit wary when I saw the author read the book, I thoroughly enjoyed Higgs’ performance.
A note: You cannot be satisfied with reading just the first book. You must continue to Mine is the Night to finish the story arc!
A favorite of mine from my college days, I come back Here Burns My Candle every 3 years or so. I decided to listen to the book this time rather than read it for the umpteenth time. Despite being a bit wary when I saw the author read the book, I thoroughly enjoyed Higgs’ performance.
A note: You cannot be satisfied with reading just the first book. You must continue to Mine is the Night to finish the story arc!
March 9, 2010
1745 Ediburgh, Scotland is simmering. Bonnie Prince Charlie is riding from the Highlands, determined to reach London and claim the crown for his father, the claimant King James III, son of the deposed King James II. Got all that? Family relationships of royals are always confusing, but the relationships within the Kerr family are the center of Liz Curtis Higgs' Here Burns My Candle. The central characters are Lady Elisabeth Kerr, daughter of a Highland weaver who has married far above her station in the mind of Dowager Lady Marjory Kerr. Marjory pampers her two boys, Lord Donald and Andrew, who do nothing wrong in her eyes, while mourning the loss of her beloved husband John many years previously. The family live a fashionable social life until rumblings of a rising against King George begin and war and chosen loyalties change their lives.
I greatly enjoyed Here Burns My Candle for many reasons. First off, it had a map of Edinburgh in 1745, a Scottish glossary, and historical notes from the author. I also liked Ms. Higgs style with the Scottish language, peppering it into characters' speech in such a way that it was easy to understand. The transformation of our two Lady Kerrs, one growing in confidence and her relationship with God, the other learning to appreciate the smaller things in life was well-written, not a slam-over-the-head "Aha!" moment for either, but a gradual growth, as these things usually are in life, but often not in fiction.
I greatly enjoyed Here Burns My Candle for many reasons. First off, it had a map of Edinburgh in 1745, a Scottish glossary, and historical notes from the author. I also liked Ms. Higgs style with the Scottish language, peppering it into characters' speech in such a way that it was easy to understand. The transformation of our two Lady Kerrs, one growing in confidence and her relationship with God, the other learning to appreciate the smaller things in life was well-written, not a slam-over-the-head "Aha!" moment for either, but a gradual growth, as these things usually are in life, but often not in fiction.
April 23, 2010
When I read historical fiction, I want to be swept away to a time and place. Liz Curtis Higgs's fiction always does that for me. The reason is two fold: this author does her research thoroughly and her storytelling is superior.
I felt for poor Bess as she dealt with a mother-in-law who simply tolerated her and believed that her son could do no wrong (he had actually been cheating on Bess for some time), and a sister-in-law who is vain and shallow. Drawing close to God got Bess through her trials during the tumultuous time of the Jacobite Rising in 18th century Scotland.
I love how the author draws inspiration from biblical stories without preaching them. As I traveled along with the characters I was prompted to think about how I treat those closest to me--do I just tolerate them? Do I consider what struggles they might be dealing with? Am I trusting God to work out the things in life I have no control over?
Inspiring and thought provoking. I can't wait for the sequel.
Cindy Thomson
Author of Brigid of Ireland: A Historical Novel
I felt for poor Bess as she dealt with a mother-in-law who simply tolerated her and believed that her son could do no wrong (he had actually been cheating on Bess for some time), and a sister-in-law who is vain and shallow. Drawing close to God got Bess through her trials during the tumultuous time of the Jacobite Rising in 18th century Scotland.
I love how the author draws inspiration from biblical stories without preaching them. As I traveled along with the characters I was prompted to think about how I treat those closest to me--do I just tolerate them? Do I consider what struggles they might be dealing with? Am I trusting God to work out the things in life I have no control over?
Inspiring and thought provoking. I can't wait for the sequel.
Cindy Thomson
Author of Brigid of Ireland: A Historical Novel
January 10, 2011
Well, as I am Kerr by marriage, the Kerr family featured in this book is a fascinating group of matriarch, sons, daughters in law, fickle friends and outside lovers.
Liz Curtis Higgs saves this from becoming a bodice ripper romance by giving us a story of Naomi and Ruth set in another time and place. I enjoyed the author's series of "Bad Girls of the Bible", "Slightly Bad Girls of the Bible" etc. and this story takes a slightly different form in telling the Biblical tale.
All of the action takes place in Edinburgh, Scotland and it was a true delight to read of places that Don and I have been to in that city. So, this was quite a tasty treat of a story for that element alone.
St. Giles Cathedral? I've been in the center of that amazing edifice!
Of course, the history of the politics at the time, all subjected to the King in power vs. the Prince and his followers is a backdrop for war, death and brutality. Faith is shown to be something to be discovered and embraced and shared. Good message.
Liz Curtis Higgs saves this from becoming a bodice ripper romance by giving us a story of Naomi and Ruth set in another time and place. I enjoyed the author's series of "Bad Girls of the Bible", "Slightly Bad Girls of the Bible" etc. and this story takes a slightly different form in telling the Biblical tale.
All of the action takes place in Edinburgh, Scotland and it was a true delight to read of places that Don and I have been to in that city. So, this was quite a tasty treat of a story for that element alone.
St. Giles Cathedral? I've been in the center of that amazing edifice!
Of course, the history of the politics at the time, all subjected to the King in power vs. the Prince and his followers is a backdrop for war, death and brutality. Faith is shown to be something to be discovered and embraced and shared. Good message.
May 16, 2019
Higgs' books are amazing. I wish I had kept the original words I wrote for this review, but alas, they have disappeared into the ether of the internet. This is historical fiction at its absolute finest, the book is highly recommended.
August 20, 2020
I loved the heroine in this historical set in Scotland. This is an unusual retelling of the story of Ruth in the Bible. You will need the second book in the series for the happily ever after.
August 27, 2023
I can't say I particularly enjoyed this story. It's a two book series based on Naomi and Ruth's story from the Bible but the first book, Here Burns My Candle, is the first half of their story. Therefore it's incredibly depressing, if you're familiar with the Bible tale. Lady Elisabeth is a wonderful character, giving out her love to those who don't return or deserve it, while every other character is decidedly less admirable. Lady Marjory improves throughout the story and is to be admired by the end. The historical detail of this story however is amazing, reminds me strongly of Laura Frantz's stories. It transported you to the city of Edinburgh during a time of much change and turmoil. It's the reason I kept reading despite not really loving the storyline. I'm so glad I'd knew that this was a Bible retelling before starting otherwise I'd probably never pick up the second book, now I definitely have to read the sequel to make sure they get the ending I'm hoping for!
UPDATE: I read the sequel, fantastic 5 Star read! Everything I'd hoped for by the end. But got to read the first book first to fully appreciate the sequel! I beautiful conclusion!
UPDATE: I read the sequel, fantastic 5 Star read! Everything I'd hoped for by the end. But got to read the first book first to fully appreciate the sequel! I beautiful conclusion!
July 4, 2019
Three stars ish ... not sure what I think about this one! It was kinda a "eh" read.
March 26, 2010
Liz Curtis Higgs whisks us away to eighteenth-century Scotland for a spellbinding tale in Here Burns My Candle.
Lady Elizabeth Kerr, a highland beauty, possesses fine clothing, the love of a titled husband and a gentle life. But she is not all she appears, for she follows in secret the auld ways, looks to the moon and worships the Nameless One while outwardly displaying a form of Christian piety. Her husband, Donald, keeps his own secrets -- secrets that make him the butt of the town's gossips and cause Elizabeth to question his fidelity.
Dowager Lady Marjory Kerr, Donald's mother, discounts such rumors. She clings to her two sons and her gold and hardens her heart to Elizabeth. But she can't shut out the whispers of her own guilt that beset her, a guilt buried with her husband in Greyfriars Churchyard.
The intrigues of the Jacobite cause press the Kerrs as rebel Highlanders challenge King George's hold on the crown of Scotland and fight to secure the throne for Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie). The Kerrs cannot remain neutral, each making a choice with far-reaching consequences. In addition, Elizabeth and Marjory face a more intimate, personal decision that will follow them into eternity.
Here Burns My Candle kept me up late at night, turning pages. Pains-taking historical detail, memorable characters and vivid settings combined to transport me. I was sorry when the book ended. Happily, Liz Curtis Higgs is now at work on the sequel, Mine is the Night. I look forward to its release in Spring, 2011.
Here Burns My Candle will most appeal to female readers of historical romance.
* This book was provided to me by the publisher for purposes of review.
Lady Elizabeth Kerr, a highland beauty, possesses fine clothing, the love of a titled husband and a gentle life. But she is not all she appears, for she follows in secret the auld ways, looks to the moon and worships the Nameless One while outwardly displaying a form of Christian piety. Her husband, Donald, keeps his own secrets -- secrets that make him the butt of the town's gossips and cause Elizabeth to question his fidelity.
Dowager Lady Marjory Kerr, Donald's mother, discounts such rumors. She clings to her two sons and her gold and hardens her heart to Elizabeth. But she can't shut out the whispers of her own guilt that beset her, a guilt buried with her husband in Greyfriars Churchyard.
The intrigues of the Jacobite cause press the Kerrs as rebel Highlanders challenge King George's hold on the crown of Scotland and fight to secure the throne for Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie). The Kerrs cannot remain neutral, each making a choice with far-reaching consequences. In addition, Elizabeth and Marjory face a more intimate, personal decision that will follow them into eternity.
Here Burns My Candle kept me up late at night, turning pages. Pains-taking historical detail, memorable characters and vivid settings combined to transport me. I was sorry when the book ended. Happily, Liz Curtis Higgs is now at work on the sequel, Mine is the Night. I look forward to its release in Spring, 2011.
Here Burns My Candle will most appeal to female readers of historical romance.
* This book was provided to me by the publisher for purposes of review.
April 5, 2010
This was a gift from a friend, apparently written by a Christian author, although I did not know this going into it. I didn't realize until I ended the book, that it was supposed to be a story which paralleled the first part of the Story of Ruth in the Bible. (Up to the point where her husband dies and she remains with her mother in law). Now that I know this, I can probably guess how the sequel will end.
It was interesting in terms of the historical setting (Jacobite rebellion in Scotland). I also did enjoy the utter transformation of the Mother-in-law's character by the end of the book. However, Elisabeth, the main character annoyed me in many ways. Yes, she was strong, but in my mind far too patient with her philandering husband. That was another aspect of the book I really disliked, not that there were any details, just a lot of references to his multiple affairs with many of the town widows.
Spoiler alert**
Although she and her mother-in-law are pretty much penniless and homeless by the end, I'm sure that in the sequel that is not yet out, she will find a worthy mate after much hardship and privation.
It was interesting in terms of the historical setting (Jacobite rebellion in Scotland). I also did enjoy the utter transformation of the Mother-in-law's character by the end of the book. However, Elisabeth, the main character annoyed me in many ways. Yes, she was strong, but in my mind far too patient with her philandering husband. That was another aspect of the book I really disliked, not that there were any details, just a lot of references to his multiple affairs with many of the town widows.
Spoiler alert**
Although she and her mother-in-law are pretty much penniless and homeless by the end, I'm sure that in the sequel that is not yet out, she will find a worthy mate after much hardship and privation.
July 6, 2011
I agree with many of the other reviewers who felt that the plot of Here Burns My Candle moved too slowly. The book does develop at a slower pace, but Liz Curtis Higgs writes with a pleasant style. She knows what details are nice additions to the story, but she doesn't bog the story down with too many details. It seems that lately I've read a lot of mediocre inspirational fiction, but Ms. Higgs is not one of those authors. There is polish and finesse to her writing, which I appreciate. I also like the amount of Christian thought in her books; some books are over-the-top preachy and others that are labelled as Christian/inspirational fiction have little to no Christian message. Ms. Higgs's books have a good balance.
December 31, 2020
This was okay. Most of the characters were extremely annoying. The time and place were interesting, but the story wasn’t my favorite as I wanted to yell at most of the characters.
March 8, 2020
I almost put this down because there was too much of the Scottish brogue in there for me. I kept stopping and trying to figure out what was being said. I also anticipated this to be the whole Ruth story so it felt very slow. I think it would have been fine if I had realized that it is broken up over more than one book. I persevered and it grew on me. I will read the next book in the series.
December 21, 2022
I started this back in 2012 and didn't get far because I was thrown off by the Scottish accent words and am not usually a fan of a story of the same people spanning multiple books. However, it's 2022 Anne I have finally finished it. I think what spurred me on is that I could tell Higgs writing is rich like Laura Frantz. I couldn't wait to start book 2.
May 11, 2025
I'm super late to the party on this one (published in 2010!), but I'm sure glad I got around to reading it. I loved it and will definitely be reading the follow-up novel. This is actually the first time I've read fiction by Liz Curtis Higgs, and wow -- her writing and storytelling are amazing. Just excellent!
February 6, 2020
When you’re anticipating the parallels to the biblical account of Ruth, this drags in comparison. However, the characters are interesting, the Scottish brogue is delightful, and the descriptors make it a good read. I look forward to reading the second book.
January 6, 2023
An interesting look at the lives of the women at the time of Bonnie Prince Charlie who tried to win the throne of England in the 1700s.
July 1, 2011
"When the flame began to lick the edges, Elisabeth let his unsigned letter slip from her hands into the grate and watched Donald's sins turn to ash."
Lady Elisabeth Kerr wasn't born with the typical resolve of a young society-dweller to climb the proverbial ladder of titles. A Highlander by birth and a silent follower of the auld ways, she is misplaced in the city of Edinburgh among her husband's family. Despite conflict, she remains deeply and, seemingly, mutually entranced with her husband - someone with his own secrets to keep. Her mother-in-law, the dowager Lady Marjory, and her sister-in-law by way of her husband's brother, Mrs. Janet Kerr, dwell within the same household offering bracing personalities and passive disapproval. However, the pulsing vibration of coins beneath the dowager lady's floorboards beat into a grasping story of their own.
"Here Burns My Candle" holds a very special place in my heart for a number of reasons. However, the main point relevant to this review would be that it marked a newly ignited flame for audiobooks. I listened to Liz Curtis Higgs' voice on a long car trip to visit my parents and then on my (short) commute to and from work for several weeks after.
As a historical novel, "Here Burns My Candle" soars above others. I, purposely, do not have an extensive collection of Christian fiction, as it is not something I typically gravitate towards due to themes or their sometimes repetitive nature. "Here Burns My Candle" does not push an over-ambitious sermon into the reader's experience - pulling from the story. Instead, the religious elements of the book are woven into the fabric of what's presented, more as a plot point than an agenda, despite the out-rightly Biblical roots drawn from the story of Ruth and Naomi.
Through reading several reviews, I've gathered there has been some displeasure with Higgs' use of Scots terms. As I listened to the audiobook, I cannot comment on this as an issue with readability, but, for it's part in my experience, I felt these terms helped me to further immerse myself into the impeccably researched culture and atmosphere of Edinburgh in 1745. Every detail was studied down to its marrow for purest accuracy, and it's something I proudly display on my shelf. If you enjoy the concept of 18th Century Scotland, this is a book for you.
(Blogged here: http://sugarspunpages.blogspot.com/20...)
Lady Elisabeth Kerr wasn't born with the typical resolve of a young society-dweller to climb the proverbial ladder of titles. A Highlander by birth and a silent follower of the auld ways, she is misplaced in the city of Edinburgh among her husband's family. Despite conflict, she remains deeply and, seemingly, mutually entranced with her husband - someone with his own secrets to keep. Her mother-in-law, the dowager Lady Marjory, and her sister-in-law by way of her husband's brother, Mrs. Janet Kerr, dwell within the same household offering bracing personalities and passive disapproval. However, the pulsing vibration of coins beneath the dowager lady's floorboards beat into a grasping story of their own.
"Here Burns My Candle" holds a very special place in my heart for a number of reasons. However, the main point relevant to this review would be that it marked a newly ignited flame for audiobooks. I listened to Liz Curtis Higgs' voice on a long car trip to visit my parents and then on my (short) commute to and from work for several weeks after.
As a historical novel, "Here Burns My Candle" soars above others. I, purposely, do not have an extensive collection of Christian fiction, as it is not something I typically gravitate towards due to themes or their sometimes repetitive nature. "Here Burns My Candle" does not push an over-ambitious sermon into the reader's experience - pulling from the story. Instead, the religious elements of the book are woven into the fabric of what's presented, more as a plot point than an agenda, despite the out-rightly Biblical roots drawn from the story of Ruth and Naomi.
Through reading several reviews, I've gathered there has been some displeasure with Higgs' use of Scots terms. As I listened to the audiobook, I cannot comment on this as an issue with readability, but, for it's part in my experience, I felt these terms helped me to further immerse myself into the impeccably researched culture and atmosphere of Edinburgh in 1745. Every detail was studied down to its marrow for purest accuracy, and it's something I proudly display on my shelf. If you enjoy the concept of 18th Century Scotland, this is a book for you.
(Blogged here: http://sugarspunpages.blogspot.com/20...)
July 25, 2013
Augh so boring. This book has been sitting on my TBR shelf for more than 3 years, and it was time to decide: read or dnf/donate.
The problem that I had with it is largely plot and pacing. There’s a lot going on, and individually the plot threads are important to the characters, but altogether, they’re not that compelling. Nothing much happens in the first 150 pages – there are family dinners, a couple of outings into town, and a lot of waiting around to see if Bonny Prince Charlie will invade.
Lady Elisabeth Kerr holds to the “auld” ways of praying to the moon and fears discovery by her Christian husband’s family. She’s also snubbed by her mother-in-law for her humble Highland upbringing, and hides her Jacobite sympathies for Prince Charlie’s cause.
Her husband, Lord Donald Kerr, is cheating on her both in lustful thought and deed with many women in the town. He’s not very discreet and his trists are greatly gossiped about. He talks about loving his beautiful wife and not being worthy of her sweetness, then he leers at every pretty widow and unmarried woman who winks at him.
The Dowager Lady Marjory doesn’t like her daughter-in-law and is just a generally unhappy person. She believes that her selfish desire to live in town caused her late husband’s death and she is plagued by guilt.
Bonny Prince Charlie has announced his intention to reclaim the throne of Scotland, and their town is quickly invaded by the Highland forces.
Even with all these characters’ struggles, there’s nothing to sink your teeth into – you know everyone’s secrets are going to come out. The only universal problem the characters face is the invasion, and because they’re just sitting around watching it happen, none of their actions are relevant to the invasion. When there is action, it therefore feels irrelevant to the central plot.
I highly enjoyed Higgs’ Lowlands of Scotland series, which was a retelling of the story of Jacob, Leah and Rachel in the Bible. In that series, the themes of love and redemption were powerful, but in this book, they’re totally absent. I’m sure had I continued, they would be more prominent, but 454 pages is far too much to trudge through with lackluster characters and a slow plot.
The problem that I had with it is largely plot and pacing. There’s a lot going on, and individually the plot threads are important to the characters, but altogether, they’re not that compelling. Nothing much happens in the first 150 pages – there are family dinners, a couple of outings into town, and a lot of waiting around to see if Bonny Prince Charlie will invade.
Lady Elisabeth Kerr holds to the “auld” ways of praying to the moon and fears discovery by her Christian husband’s family. She’s also snubbed by her mother-in-law for her humble Highland upbringing, and hides her Jacobite sympathies for Prince Charlie’s cause.
Her husband, Lord Donald Kerr, is cheating on her both in lustful thought and deed with many women in the town. He’s not very discreet and his trists are greatly gossiped about. He talks about loving his beautiful wife and not being worthy of her sweetness, then he leers at every pretty widow and unmarried woman who winks at him.
The Dowager Lady Marjory doesn’t like her daughter-in-law and is just a generally unhappy person. She believes that her selfish desire to live in town caused her late husband’s death and she is plagued by guilt.
Bonny Prince Charlie has announced his intention to reclaim the throne of Scotland, and their town is quickly invaded by the Highland forces.
Even with all these characters’ struggles, there’s nothing to sink your teeth into – you know everyone’s secrets are going to come out. The only universal problem the characters face is the invasion, and because they’re just sitting around watching it happen, none of their actions are relevant to the invasion. When there is action, it therefore feels irrelevant to the central plot.
I highly enjoyed Higgs’ Lowlands of Scotland series, which was a retelling of the story of Jacob, Leah and Rachel in the Bible. In that series, the themes of love and redemption were powerful, but in this book, they’re totally absent. I’m sure had I continued, they would be more prominent, but 454 pages is far too much to trudge through with lackluster characters and a slow plot.
August 22, 2014
Here Burns My Candle is loosely based on the Book of Ruth in the Bible. I really had a hard time getting into this book for because 1)I am not a history buff person, 2) the Scottish dialect was difficult to figure out, but once I did ... no stopping me, 3) Knowing it was suppose to be based on the Ruth & Naomi story I was surprised at some of the content. What I do not understand is the plot line with Lord Kerr being unfaithful to his wife. I've study the book of Ruth, and its not there. This is a huge liberty the author takes with this story. Actually not much was said about either of the young men in the Biblical account of Ruth. For this reason I've marked this as only a 3 star review.(I don't like spoilers in a review so I won't go into any detail).
Like I mentioned, the Scottish dialect was difficult for me. There is a Glossary in the back of the book yet some of the words were not there. Also, at the end of the book is the Author's notes. I suggest reading those first, especially if you are not a history buff, because Ms Higgs does explain about places, people, and a bit of history that might make the book a wee bit easier to read, enjoy, and understand.
1745 Edinburgh Scotland ... it is a well researched, well thought out, and a well developed story. I found myself lost in the lives of Kerr family and even their staff. How life brought the different classes together. Real life struggles, family secrets (past and present) and how the loss of everything brings them together on the same level. Lives are changed by the One who created all. Lives are changed by actions and not words.
I do think how interesting it would have been to live in those times ... the dress (which by the way was described so you could see the vivid colors and hear the rustling of the skirts); the society, and dangerous times. I was drawn into 1745 Edinburgh, High Street and all the rest.
Now onto the sequel, Mine In the Night.
Like I mentioned, the Scottish dialect was difficult for me. There is a Glossary in the back of the book yet some of the words were not there. Also, at the end of the book is the Author's notes. I suggest reading those first, especially if you are not a history buff, because Ms Higgs does explain about places, people, and a bit of history that might make the book a wee bit easier to read, enjoy, and understand.
1745 Edinburgh Scotland ... it is a well researched, well thought out, and a well developed story. I found myself lost in the lives of Kerr family and even their staff. How life brought the different classes together. Real life struggles, family secrets (past and present) and how the loss of everything brings them together on the same level. Lives are changed by the One who created all. Lives are changed by actions and not words.
I do think how interesting it would have been to live in those times ... the dress (which by the way was described so you could see the vivid colors and hear the rustling of the skirts); the society, and dangerous times. I was drawn into 1745 Edinburgh, High Street and all the rest.
Now onto the sequel, Mine In the Night.
April 8, 2010
I love books about Scotland. I think one of the first I stumbled upon was Outlander by Diana Gabaldon about ten years ago. Since then it is one of my favorite places to visit in books. I would love to one day go there but so far I've just used my imagination, less jet lag that way I guess! I read books set both in current years and set centuries ago, it just depends upon my mood!
This book is part of a blog tour and I was very happy to take part in it. It was very interesting to read about how Lowlanders in Scotland viewed the Highlander who were siding with Prince Charlie at the time of the uprising in 1745. I have read other books set in this time and conflict but realized as I read this that they were all set in the Highlands. Elizabeth is a Highlander who fled the advances of an older man by coming to Edinburgh to attend school and then married a lord and remained there as his wife with his mother and brother. It was hard for me to read about how Elizabeth's mother in law never really accepted her because of her background and her different accent and ways of doing things. Marjory much favored her other daughter-in-law, Janet, who she handpicked for her younger son. It was easy to see Elizabeth's loneliness even as part of the household and how much she held back of herself in an attempt to fit in.
Since this book is set in a historical time period for which the outcome is already known there weren't surprises in that regard, but in how the characters cope with what life deals out to them there were surprises. To see how they react to infidelity and loss of wealth shows who they are beneath the mask they show to society.
This was a very enjoyable read and I found myself routing for the rebel army even knowing what was to come! This book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah.
This book is part of a blog tour and I was very happy to take part in it. It was very interesting to read about how Lowlanders in Scotland viewed the Highlander who were siding with Prince Charlie at the time of the uprising in 1745. I have read other books set in this time and conflict but realized as I read this that they were all set in the Highlands. Elizabeth is a Highlander who fled the advances of an older man by coming to Edinburgh to attend school and then married a lord and remained there as his wife with his mother and brother. It was hard for me to read about how Elizabeth's mother in law never really accepted her because of her background and her different accent and ways of doing things. Marjory much favored her other daughter-in-law, Janet, who she handpicked for her younger son. It was easy to see Elizabeth's loneliness even as part of the household and how much she held back of herself in an attempt to fit in.
Since this book is set in a historical time period for which the outcome is already known there weren't surprises in that regard, but in how the characters cope with what life deals out to them there were surprises. To see how they react to infidelity and loss of wealth shows who they are beneath the mask they show to society.
This was a very enjoyable read and I found myself routing for the rebel army even knowing what was to come! This book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah.
July 24, 2019
Woman feels guilty because her mother-in-law takes her chosen side in the Jacobite rebellion and losses everything.
Maybe a little cynical but that it pretty much the story. I love history. I love Scotland. Some of the everyday life things in this story were interesting and there were scenes that were very moving. Overall, it just didn't do it for me.
Mildly annoying was the phenetics of the highland brogue. It took me a while to figure out that is what it was.
Majorly annoying was the ands. Elizabeth is long suffering. She is a different class then her husband and from a different region and she had to work for a living once and she is a Jacobite and her husband isn't faithful and her mother-in-law looks down on her and her own mother has disowned her and her brother died and her sister-in-law doesn't like her and... and...and.... It just gets to a point where it is too much.
What really bother me was Elizabeth's supposed paganism. The author admits she based it on some incantations to the moon she found. She ignores the fact that many people in outlying areas would have believed in witches, fairies, ghosts and the like, and would believe they needed spells to protect themselves while still believing themselves to be good Christians. Instead of delving into pagan religions that fringes might still have been practiced at the time, the author creates her own so that Elizabeth has an easy conversion that she didn't seem to get by attending church with her husband's family or living in a culture where Christianity was predominant. It came off as contrived.
Maybe a little cynical but that it pretty much the story. I love history. I love Scotland. Some of the everyday life things in this story were interesting and there were scenes that were very moving. Overall, it just didn't do it for me.
Mildly annoying was the phenetics of the highland brogue. It took me a while to figure out that is what it was.
Majorly annoying was the ands. Elizabeth is long suffering. She is a different class then her husband and from a different region and she had to work for a living once and she is a Jacobite and her husband isn't faithful and her mother-in-law looks down on her and her own mother has disowned her and her brother died and her sister-in-law doesn't like her and... and...and.... It just gets to a point where it is too much.
What really bother me was Elizabeth's supposed paganism. The author admits she based it on some incantations to the moon she found. She ignores the fact that many people in outlying areas would have believed in witches, fairies, ghosts and the like, and would believe they needed spells to protect themselves while still believing themselves to be good Christians. Instead of delving into pagan religions that fringes might still have been practiced at the time, the author creates her own so that Elizabeth has an easy conversion that she didn't seem to get by attending church with her husband's family or living in a culture where Christianity was predominant. It came off as contrived.
March 14, 2010
This book is extremely rich in historical details about the Bonnie Prince Charlie era and the strife within the country of Scotland. I thoroughly enjoyed that aspect of it.
The Kerr family loyalties lie with King George with one exception: Lady Elisabeth Kerr. Her heart and her own family (she is married into the Kerrs) lies with Prince Charles who is on his way. While the nobility all around Scotland switches loyalties every five minutes, Elisabeth's loyalty remains steadfast. She eventually lures her husband and his family to the Jacobite side as well and much to her and her mother in law's dismay, her husband and brother in law head off to fight. Meanwhile, while men are dying and King George is exacting revenge on Jacobites and vise versa, Elisabeth's husband, Donald is dealing with his "weakness for beautiful women." The fellow cannot keep his hands to himself. When the truth comes to light, will Elisabeth be able to handle it? Will Donald even make it back from the war zone for her to forgive him?
This could have been cut back about a hundred pages. I realize this author normally writes Christian fiction and I am not holding all the preachy stuff against it, but it could have been cut back a wee bit as the Highlanders would say. Once I began to just skip the religious stuff, I found the story and all the family drama very enjoyable, BUT I grew very frustrated with the too good to be true and way too forgiving Elisabeth with all her "beloveds" over that blasted dog, Donald.
Again, great history in here, but I'm not pining for the next book.
The Kerr family loyalties lie with King George with one exception: Lady Elisabeth Kerr. Her heart and her own family (she is married into the Kerrs) lies with Prince Charles who is on his way. While the nobility all around Scotland switches loyalties every five minutes, Elisabeth's loyalty remains steadfast. She eventually lures her husband and his family to the Jacobite side as well and much to her and her mother in law's dismay, her husband and brother in law head off to fight. Meanwhile, while men are dying and King George is exacting revenge on Jacobites and vise versa, Elisabeth's husband, Donald is dealing with his "weakness for beautiful women." The fellow cannot keep his hands to himself. When the truth comes to light, will Elisabeth be able to handle it? Will Donald even make it back from the war zone for her to forgive him?
This could have been cut back about a hundred pages. I realize this author normally writes Christian fiction and I am not holding all the preachy stuff against it, but it could have been cut back a wee bit as the Highlanders would say. Once I began to just skip the religious stuff, I found the story and all the family drama very enjoyable, BUT I grew very frustrated with the too good to be true and way too forgiving Elisabeth with all her "beloveds" over that blasted dog, Donald.
Again, great history in here, but I'm not pining for the next book.
June 24, 2015
I found this book to move VERY SLOWLY. I thought that many of the scenes could have been cut out, as there were a few interesting ones but most were just slow.
The only characters I really liked were Elizabeth, Simon, and Rob. I don't know why she didn't accept Rob's proposal as I skipped from that part of the story to the very end. I really, really, disliked Donald. HE WAS THE WORST. Man, I couldn't figure out why she stayed with him after she found out what he had done, then how he'd cheated after making his promise to her.
It did seem to follow the story of Ruth, but very loosely. It seemed to be more focused on the history of the story, rather than a really interesting fast paced plot.
Overall I rate it two stars, just because I had to force myself to read as much as I did. I normally love historical fiction, but not this one. My favourite thing about this book is the cover, which is gorgeous!
The only characters I really liked were Elizabeth, Simon, and Rob. I don't know why she didn't accept Rob's proposal as I skipped from that part of the story to the very end. I really, really, disliked Donald. HE WAS THE WORST. Man, I couldn't figure out why she stayed with him after she found out what he had done, then how he'd cheated after making his promise to her.
It did seem to follow the story of Ruth, but very loosely. It seemed to be more focused on the history of the story, rather than a really interesting fast paced plot.
Overall I rate it two stars, just because I had to force myself to read as much as I did. I normally love historical fiction, but not this one. My favourite thing about this book is the cover, which is gorgeous!
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