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One Candle
It is 1849 barely two years after the Saints arrival in Utah and missionaries are being sent out to preach the gospel to the world. One of them, Lorenzo Snow, is sent to Italy. He is led to the valleys of the Piedmont, where the Waldenese, followers of the reformer Peter Waldo, have been exiled and persecuted. There, Elder Snow and his two companions find both success and challenges. Hiking into the alpine mountains near the town of Torre Pellice, they are recognized by Madeleine Cardon, who had seen a vision of them bringing the gospel years earlier. Her family and others soon welcome the missionaries into their lives. Madeleine's best friend, Albertina Guy, faces her own challenges as her heart is drawn to this new faith. Her family is Catholic; her great-uncle is a priest in the local monastery. Joining the Mormons could mean being expelled from her family. When Elder Snow heals her dying young brother with a priesthood blessing, Albertina and her family must reassess their feelings for these Mormon missionaries and the doctrine they preach. Based on the true story of the first LDS missionaries in Italy, One Candle shows the gospel of Jesus Christ changing lives and rolling forward boldly, nobly, and independent in the early days of the Restoration.
304 pages, Paperback
Published April 2, 2018
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243 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
November 12, 2018
LDS historical novel focused on Lorenzo Snow's mission in the early 1850's opening the gospel to the Waldenese people in northern Italy, who I had heard nothing about before. Very interesting, especially with a temple opening in Rome in a few months.
April 21, 2018
This historical novel is about the Waldenese who lived in the mountains in Italy after hundreds of people in their religion were tortured and killed by the Catholics for not believing the same way as their ancestors. The Waldenese believed that the primitive church that was on the earth when Jesus was alive with apostles and a prophet would be restored to the earth and they were waiting for it.
It covers when Lorenzo Snow is called to be a missionary in Italy and how he does that and includes his actual letters and journal entries about his time there.
It was a little slower to read than other books, but I learned a lot as I read as well about their culture, beliefs, and even a little geography.
It covers when Lorenzo Snow is called to be a missionary in Italy and how he does that and includes his actual letters and journal entries about his time there.
It was a little slower to read than other books, but I learned a lot as I read as well about their culture, beliefs, and even a little geography.
August 1, 2018
I really appreciated the historical information included in this book. The setting in Piedmont, Italy had me wishing I were there. Very interesting stories about Lorenzo Snow's mission and the early church in that area. Reading was a little slow at times, especially the first 100 pages or so. But I stuck it out because of my interest in the history. there is some description of the persecutions of the Waldenese and the Saints of the church.
May 10, 2019
The story of the Waldensian saints is one I’ve never heard before, and I love the historical details added in by Sears. The writing was a little rough at times—for some reason the LDS historical fiction authors I’ve read have a terrible time figuring out how to include exposition without making characters have totally unbelievable conversations. But otherwise the characters are great and the plot interesting.
June 9, 2019
I like religious historical fiction and this is the story of Lorenzo Snow's mission to Italy in the early 1850s. He found a group of people in the Piedmont region who had already suffered much persecution for their religious beliefs who were prepared to receive the gospel. It's a remarkable story, but I found that I probably liked the notes better than the story. There were interesting tidbits and words of uplifting testimony throughout.
I was particularly interested in the story of Madelein Cardon and her dream when she was six years old of the missionaries coming to preach the gospel. She also bravely stood up to mobs after the missionaries came. I was touched by Lorenzo Snow's example in teaching the gospel. He sought the Spirit's direction and patiently waited for the right time and place to preach. He studied in the library, he saw an opportunity to bless and heal and show God's power. It seemed to me that he followed Ammon's example of missionary work--loving the people and testifying of God's power according to the Spirit and the Lord's will and timing. I appreciated that example, as well as his faith and commitment even after the heartbreak of losing his wife. It's neat to learn about the beginning of the Church around the world and valiant faith and these are some sweet examples.
Here are some quotes that I liked:
"King Carlo Alberto was a member of the Savoy royal family and ruled the area of Piedmont-Sardinia from 1831 to 1849. He established a constitutional monarchy, and the 1848 constitution he set down was meant to be a standard for the eventual unifying of Italy, which, at the time, was a loosely woven group of city and papal states... One of the things set down in the constitution was an allowance for greater freedom of worship for the Waldenese... The 1848 constitution came only eighteen months prior to Brigham Yong Calling missionaries to labor in Italy (p. 11)."
"'The words of the New Testament reached my heart... Christ was no longer just the Lord of miracles, but the preacher of truth to the woman at the well, the storyteller talking of lost sheep, candles on candlesticks, and lilies in the field (p. 16).'"
"I would cross mountains for the truth (p. 23)."
"'Fear not, for we are servants of God and have come from afar to preach unto the world the everlasting gospel (p. 24).'"
"The Waldensian faith was founded on the word of God, and they were the first people of Europe to obtain a translation of the holy scriptures. Hundreds of years before the Reformation, they possessed the Bible in their native tongue--French (p. 29)."
"The deep regard held by the Waldenese for the scriptures is apparent in the education of their youth. While attention was given by the pastors to branches of general learning, the Bible was made the chief study. The young committed to memory the Gospels of Matthew and John along with many of the epistles. The youth were also employed in copying the scriptures (p. 38)."
"'What I find a miracle is that after only two years in the valley, we are sending missionaries out to the world (p. 42).'"
"'It would be impossible to leave my family without the firm knowledge that I am doing the Lord's work. To go to a country of such spiritual superstition without the testimony that I'm bringing them the light of the restored gospel? Impossible. But I know there are people waiting for the truth--praying for the truth (p. 44).'"
"In the October 1849 general conference of the Church, President Young called three apostles to open missions abroad: John Taylor in France, Erastus Snow in Scandinavia, and Lorenzo Snow in Italy. Elder Franklin D. Richards was called to preside over the already established European Mission (p. 45)."
"'The joy of the Savior's birth to you (p. 51)!'"
"'Angels from the realms of glory... Now proclaim Messiah's birth!...
Sages, leave your contemplations
Brighter visions beam afar;
Seek the great desire of nations
Ye have seen his natal star...
Saints before the altar bending
Watching long in hope and fear
Suddenly the Lord descending
In His temple shall appear...
Come and worship... Worship Christ, the newborn King (p. 53).'"
"'Christmas joy, my angel (p. 57).'"
"'Think how many gifts came with the babe of Bethlehem.' 'The greatest gifts (p. 58).'"
"'After he was called to Italy, he spent many hours on his knees. He told me he would leave his family and cross the ocean for even one convert... But he wondered if there would be one person willing to hear his words. He kept praying and pleading, and before he left, he was filled with feelings of love and compassion for the Italian people. He knew he was called to take them the light of the gospel, no matter the sacrifices (p. 61).'"
"'My entire family was searching. We went out to all the revival meetings. We found some truth here and some truth there, but we never could get back to the primitive church. We never felt like we were sitting on the seaside as the Lord taught the apostles, or fed the five thousand, or healed the sick. Where was the purity and the priesthood (p. 62)?'"
"'The Waldenese in the old days had to be careful about their worship. They hid their Bibles. They held their meetings in caves. But after joining with the other Protestants they started to pray and preach openly. The duke didn't like it... He gave orders to exterminate them (p. 69).'"
"The Easter Massacre occurred in April 1655 in the valleys of the Piedmont. Between 1,800 and 2,000 Waldenese were slaughtered, and thousands more displaced (p. 72)."
"'Waldenese?'... 'A group of Protestant believers living in the Alpine mountains of the Piedmont.... when I heard it, a flood of light seemed to burst upon my mind, and I determined to learn more about them.' 'Hence our trip to the library (p. 76).'"
"'This gentleman has just called for that book.'... 'Well, I went to the park to read, but found the content too heavy for a summer's day... I was going to return it tomorrow, but then felt as though I did not wish to carry it around. So I brought it back. I am glad if it serves you (p. 78).'"
"For the next two hours the Mormon missionaries sat in the splendid library in Genoa studying about a place and a people that, prior to this, had been unknown to them. While Brothers Stenhouse and Toronto found maps of the Waldenese homeland and made several rather exquisite renderings of the area, Lorenzo read of the beginnings of their doctrinal desires, their longing for the primitive faith, and their fortitude against hundreds of years of torture and oppression. His spirit recognized a kinship--a brotherhood of truth seekers (p. 79)."
"He sighed with contentment as the glow of sunset poured in through the western windows, creating a soft cocoon of solitude. It had been a long time since he'd felt this kind of peace, and he offered a silent prayer of gratitude. He also felt assurance that here in the mountain valleys of the Piedmont was the place to preach the gospel--and he was eager to begin the work... His mind was busy...when a whispering came distinctly to his mind. Be still and wait. Wait? Patience was not a usual product of his personality. Wait? What would be the point of waiting? The prompting came again to move slowly, and Lorenzo grumbled to himself even as he submitted to the guidance of the Spirit... 'Wait... until we feel prompted to do otherwise (p. 89).'"
"The single candle haloed by seven stars with the words 'The Light Which Shines in Darkness' is an important symbol for the Waldensian people, and plaques and pictures of this representation can be found in every Waldensian temple or meeting place (p. 94)."
"'I have watched people leave everything for the truth (p. 104).'"
"'I have been praying earnestly, Thomas, for the Lord to assist us in our efforts (p. 106).'"
"'Do you believe in the Lord Jesus Christ?... And that while He was on the earth, the Lord and His apostles performed miracles of healing?... we hold the same holy priesthood as the apostles of old... We have the power to bless and heal.'... 'You can heal him?' 'If it is the Lord's will, we can.' 'Then please, please, keep him from death (p. 107)!'"
"'How is this possible?... You have worked a miracle!'... 'The God of heaven has done this for you (p. 109).'"
"'I suppose I shouldn't wonder at the Lord's grace and power...but...it nearly takes my breath away (p. 111).'"
"The miraculous healing of Joseph Guy is a true story, as noted in Elder Snow's journal (p. 111)."
"'Today, brethren, we will not just be going for a hike into the mountains, but we will dedicate this land for the preaching of the gospel (p. 115).'"
"'We Thy servants, Holy Father, come before Thee upon this mountain, and ask Thee to look upon us in an especial manner, and regard our petitions as one friend regards the peculiar requests of another... From the lifting up of this ensign may a voice go forth among the people of these mountains and valleys, and throughout the length and breadth of this land, and may it go forth and be unto thine elect as the voice of the Lord, that the Holy Spirit may fall upon them, imparting knowledge in dreams and visions concerning this hour of their redemption (p. 117).'"
"'I have left behind those dearest to my heart, we have all done that, because we know that God's children must be offered the light of the gospel. And because we willingly sacrifice, He trusts us with His most sacred errands (p. 120).'"
"'You do not need a deep understanding of the doctrine to share the gospel with others.... You only need a testimony that Christ is our Redeemer, that Joseph Smith was His prophet and received the keys of the priesthood, and that the truths of the gospel have the power to exalt us (p. 120).'"
"'On the mountain in Italy...on the same memorable day in which The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was there organized, Lorenzo, in the force of his spirit...and probably without realizing the weight of his covenant, told the Lord that he knew of no sacrifice he could possibly make he was not willing to offer, that the Lord might grant a request concerning the mission before him... Just at this time, as nearly as I could calculate by comparing dates and distances, the Lord removed, by the hand of death, from my brother's family circle, one of the loveliest of women (p. 125).'"
"'Yes. Yes, I know you. I have seen you before... I had a dream when I was six years old, and you three were in the dream... I was told that you would come from far away to preach the gospel to the world (p. 127).'"
"How good was the God of Creation to love each of his children personally? To be aware of a young girl living in a small stone house on a mountainside in northern Italy. To send her a dream in the night that would make her feel comfortable with the message and messengers of the gospel. Lorenzo's heart swelled with gratitude and love, and as he walked the grassy path of the Angrogna Valley, he reaffirmed that he would serve the Lord all his days (p. 133)."
"'They are a remarkable people and these valleys have always been a special place where faith is obvious. It is as if faith is engraved into the very soil (p. 145).'"
"'The gospel we preach is that of the Lord Jesus Christ--the primitive church restored by revelation to a prophet (p. 152).'"
"'I believe you are servants of God, and I would like to be counted among your flock (p. 156).'"
"Jean Antoine Bose was the first LDS baptism in Italy. He was baptized October 27, 1850 (p. 158)."
"'I pray also that you may find the truth... God placed words in my mouth (p. 172).'"
"'There is work that must be done and therefore prayers needed for its accomplishment (p. 181).'"
"He knew his command of the language was ragged, but he prayed for guidance (p. 195)."
"'Just like Joseph Smith, my vision came in the spring of 1820, just before my fifteenth birthday... Do I think the Lord is aware of things from the beginning to the end?... Yes, I do. Miracles are all around us. We just need to have the eyes to see them... I was reading about the life of Christ and His apostles, and pondering the gospel as taught by them. I was wishing I could have lived in those days... I felt a heavenly influence in the room and I began singing a sacred hymn. Twelve personages dressed in white robes appeared and formed a half-circle around my cot. They began singing with me. At the end of the song they and the light vanished (p. 199).'"
"'Leave him!... He is under m protection in this house!'.... 'We don't mean you harm--just the Mormon (p. 204).'"
"'Your preaching has caused strife in the community. There are rumors that Joseph Smith copied the words of your Book of Mormon from someone else, that he stole people's money, and encouraged mob violence against the authority of the states and even the United States government (p. 216).'"
"'I did not have the privilege of knowing the Prophet Joseph Smith, but I was taught the gospel by many who did know him, and to a man they testified that he was a good person. Elder Snow was a personal friend and has a depth of feeling for that man, and for the miraculous things he accomplished in his short lifetime. Do you find Elder Snow a man to be easily misled (p. 217)?'"
"'Are you afraid?.... I have only been a member of this church for a short time, and I assure you, Father Andrew, that when the doctrine was first preached to me I felt the fire of testimony and the chill of fear... I laid my fears out in front of the missionaries who were instructing me. They assured me that the Lord loved me and was aware of every prayer, every kindness, and every act of service. That I was God's child and He knew my heart (p. 217).'"
"'With the return of priesthood power, the promises of Malachi would be realized. The hearts of the fathers and the children would turn to each other in a desire for eternal families.... There was a temple built in Nauvoo, Illinois, and the Prophet Joseph was given all the temple ordinances. Many sealings were performed before the Prophet was murdered and the Saints were driven out of the state by mobs... The power remains with the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles... And one of the first things Brigham Young did when they reached the Salt Lake Valley was to walk to a certain spot, plant his cane in the ground, and declare that on that spot they would build a temple to the Most High God (p. 218).'"
"'I have secured the services of a retired Oxford professor who is working on the translation of the Book of Mormon into Italian. I have felt for many months the urging of the Spirit concerning this enterprise. It is of vital importance, Eliza, for I believe, like many of us, the Italian faithful will be drawn to the restored gospel of Christ because of the power of the Book of Mormon (p. 228).'"
"'In Italy we publish books and pamphlets at the risk of coming in collision with the Catholic Church and, thereby, the government. We cannot sell Bibles or books of scriptures, and we are not permitted to preach in public (p. 230).'"
"'The mobs conspired to ruin the Church by killing the Prophet and driving us from our homes... Yet here we are. Here, in this rugged mountain valley, and in many countries of the world (p. 231).'"
"'I testify that the Lord is aware of us. Be well (p. 232).'"
"'You are young, but many of you may have to face persecution if you join with this church (p. 254).'"
"'Don't you understand? I would be giving up everything.'... 'I do understand, my dear friend. Do you think it will be easy to leave everything we've ever known, our beautiful mountains, our lives, and our Waldensian faith? Where are we going? To an unknown wilderness.... Remember the story Elder Woodward told of the women and children walking over the snow-crusted ground? Their feet bloody from the walking?... Why didn't they give up? Why didn't they just go back to their old lives where they had comfort and security?... Because they knew it was true. A light had been placed in their hearts...a light that would never go out (p. 259).'"
"'We are pioneers now. Should we be worried about a little cold water (p. 265)?'"
"'That day, as I gave up my pride and my sins to God, a light came into my heart, at first a small flame like the light from a candle (p. 271).'"
"'There will come a time when you must do as the Lord directs (p. 272).'"
"'I testify that you hold in your hands a sacred book, a second testimony of our Lord Jesus Christ... I testify that it was translated by the gift and power of God. Read it carefully, read it prayerfully, and you will know of its truth (p. 273).'"
"Elder Snow put his hand on John Malan's shoulder, marveling at the strength of the man and the small band of Saints for whom he was shepherd (p. 277)."
"'Thank you for the gospel of Christ... We will work hard and prepare ourselves to come to Zion (p. 278).'"
"'For the strength of the hills we bless thee, our God, our fathers' God (p. 287).'"
"[Lorenzo Snow] arrived home July 30, 1852... The first group of Waldensian Saints left Torre Pellice on February 19, 1854. They sailed from Liverpool, England, with some four hundred other European converts on the ship John M. Wood. The company arrived in New Orleans on May 2, 1854. The group then traveled by steamboat to Saint Louis, where they were placed in quarantine because of an outbreak of cholera in that city. Many of the company fell ill and many died. Eventually the sickness abated and the quarantine was lifted. The Cardon family, along with the Pons and Bertoch families, reached the Salt Lake Valley on October 29, 185, and were greeted by Joseph Toronto (p. 291)."
"The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was officially recognized as a religion by the Italian government July 30, 2012 (p. 293)."
I was particularly interested in the story of Madelein Cardon and her dream when she was six years old of the missionaries coming to preach the gospel. She also bravely stood up to mobs after the missionaries came. I was touched by Lorenzo Snow's example in teaching the gospel. He sought the Spirit's direction and patiently waited for the right time and place to preach. He studied in the library, he saw an opportunity to bless and heal and show God's power. It seemed to me that he followed Ammon's example of missionary work--loving the people and testifying of God's power according to the Spirit and the Lord's will and timing. I appreciated that example, as well as his faith and commitment even after the heartbreak of losing his wife. It's neat to learn about the beginning of the Church around the world and valiant faith and these are some sweet examples.
Here are some quotes that I liked:
"King Carlo Alberto was a member of the Savoy royal family and ruled the area of Piedmont-Sardinia from 1831 to 1849. He established a constitutional monarchy, and the 1848 constitution he set down was meant to be a standard for the eventual unifying of Italy, which, at the time, was a loosely woven group of city and papal states... One of the things set down in the constitution was an allowance for greater freedom of worship for the Waldenese... The 1848 constitution came only eighteen months prior to Brigham Yong Calling missionaries to labor in Italy (p. 11)."
"'The words of the New Testament reached my heart... Christ was no longer just the Lord of miracles, but the preacher of truth to the woman at the well, the storyteller talking of lost sheep, candles on candlesticks, and lilies in the field (p. 16).'"
"I would cross mountains for the truth (p. 23)."
"'Fear not, for we are servants of God and have come from afar to preach unto the world the everlasting gospel (p. 24).'"
"The Waldensian faith was founded on the word of God, and they were the first people of Europe to obtain a translation of the holy scriptures. Hundreds of years before the Reformation, they possessed the Bible in their native tongue--French (p. 29)."
"The deep regard held by the Waldenese for the scriptures is apparent in the education of their youth. While attention was given by the pastors to branches of general learning, the Bible was made the chief study. The young committed to memory the Gospels of Matthew and John along with many of the epistles. The youth were also employed in copying the scriptures (p. 38)."
"'What I find a miracle is that after only two years in the valley, we are sending missionaries out to the world (p. 42).'"
"'It would be impossible to leave my family without the firm knowledge that I am doing the Lord's work. To go to a country of such spiritual superstition without the testimony that I'm bringing them the light of the restored gospel? Impossible. But I know there are people waiting for the truth--praying for the truth (p. 44).'"
"In the October 1849 general conference of the Church, President Young called three apostles to open missions abroad: John Taylor in France, Erastus Snow in Scandinavia, and Lorenzo Snow in Italy. Elder Franklin D. Richards was called to preside over the already established European Mission (p. 45)."
"'The joy of the Savior's birth to you (p. 51)!'"
"'Angels from the realms of glory... Now proclaim Messiah's birth!...
Sages, leave your contemplations
Brighter visions beam afar;
Seek the great desire of nations
Ye have seen his natal star...
Saints before the altar bending
Watching long in hope and fear
Suddenly the Lord descending
In His temple shall appear...
Come and worship... Worship Christ, the newborn King (p. 53).'"
"'Christmas joy, my angel (p. 57).'"
"'Think how many gifts came with the babe of Bethlehem.' 'The greatest gifts (p. 58).'"
"'After he was called to Italy, he spent many hours on his knees. He told me he would leave his family and cross the ocean for even one convert... But he wondered if there would be one person willing to hear his words. He kept praying and pleading, and before he left, he was filled with feelings of love and compassion for the Italian people. He knew he was called to take them the light of the gospel, no matter the sacrifices (p. 61).'"
"'My entire family was searching. We went out to all the revival meetings. We found some truth here and some truth there, but we never could get back to the primitive church. We never felt like we were sitting on the seaside as the Lord taught the apostles, or fed the five thousand, or healed the sick. Where was the purity and the priesthood (p. 62)?'"
"'The Waldenese in the old days had to be careful about their worship. They hid their Bibles. They held their meetings in caves. But after joining with the other Protestants they started to pray and preach openly. The duke didn't like it... He gave orders to exterminate them (p. 69).'"
"The Easter Massacre occurred in April 1655 in the valleys of the Piedmont. Between 1,800 and 2,000 Waldenese were slaughtered, and thousands more displaced (p. 72)."
"'Waldenese?'... 'A group of Protestant believers living in the Alpine mountains of the Piedmont.... when I heard it, a flood of light seemed to burst upon my mind, and I determined to learn more about them.' 'Hence our trip to the library (p. 76).'"
"'This gentleman has just called for that book.'... 'Well, I went to the park to read, but found the content too heavy for a summer's day... I was going to return it tomorrow, but then felt as though I did not wish to carry it around. So I brought it back. I am glad if it serves you (p. 78).'"
"For the next two hours the Mormon missionaries sat in the splendid library in Genoa studying about a place and a people that, prior to this, had been unknown to them. While Brothers Stenhouse and Toronto found maps of the Waldenese homeland and made several rather exquisite renderings of the area, Lorenzo read of the beginnings of their doctrinal desires, their longing for the primitive faith, and their fortitude against hundreds of years of torture and oppression. His spirit recognized a kinship--a brotherhood of truth seekers (p. 79)."
"He sighed with contentment as the glow of sunset poured in through the western windows, creating a soft cocoon of solitude. It had been a long time since he'd felt this kind of peace, and he offered a silent prayer of gratitude. He also felt assurance that here in the mountain valleys of the Piedmont was the place to preach the gospel--and he was eager to begin the work... His mind was busy...when a whispering came distinctly to his mind. Be still and wait. Wait? Patience was not a usual product of his personality. Wait? What would be the point of waiting? The prompting came again to move slowly, and Lorenzo grumbled to himself even as he submitted to the guidance of the Spirit... 'Wait... until we feel prompted to do otherwise (p. 89).'"
"The single candle haloed by seven stars with the words 'The Light Which Shines in Darkness' is an important symbol for the Waldensian people, and plaques and pictures of this representation can be found in every Waldensian temple or meeting place (p. 94)."
"'I have watched people leave everything for the truth (p. 104).'"
"'I have been praying earnestly, Thomas, for the Lord to assist us in our efforts (p. 106).'"
"'Do you believe in the Lord Jesus Christ?... And that while He was on the earth, the Lord and His apostles performed miracles of healing?... we hold the same holy priesthood as the apostles of old... We have the power to bless and heal.'... 'You can heal him?' 'If it is the Lord's will, we can.' 'Then please, please, keep him from death (p. 107)!'"
"'How is this possible?... You have worked a miracle!'... 'The God of heaven has done this for you (p. 109).'"
"'I suppose I shouldn't wonder at the Lord's grace and power...but...it nearly takes my breath away (p. 111).'"
"The miraculous healing of Joseph Guy is a true story, as noted in Elder Snow's journal (p. 111)."
"'Today, brethren, we will not just be going for a hike into the mountains, but we will dedicate this land for the preaching of the gospel (p. 115).'"
"'We Thy servants, Holy Father, come before Thee upon this mountain, and ask Thee to look upon us in an especial manner, and regard our petitions as one friend regards the peculiar requests of another... From the lifting up of this ensign may a voice go forth among the people of these mountains and valleys, and throughout the length and breadth of this land, and may it go forth and be unto thine elect as the voice of the Lord, that the Holy Spirit may fall upon them, imparting knowledge in dreams and visions concerning this hour of their redemption (p. 117).'"
"'I have left behind those dearest to my heart, we have all done that, because we know that God's children must be offered the light of the gospel. And because we willingly sacrifice, He trusts us with His most sacred errands (p. 120).'"
"'You do not need a deep understanding of the doctrine to share the gospel with others.... You only need a testimony that Christ is our Redeemer, that Joseph Smith was His prophet and received the keys of the priesthood, and that the truths of the gospel have the power to exalt us (p. 120).'"
"'On the mountain in Italy...on the same memorable day in which The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was there organized, Lorenzo, in the force of his spirit...and probably without realizing the weight of his covenant, told the Lord that he knew of no sacrifice he could possibly make he was not willing to offer, that the Lord might grant a request concerning the mission before him... Just at this time, as nearly as I could calculate by comparing dates and distances, the Lord removed, by the hand of death, from my brother's family circle, one of the loveliest of women (p. 125).'"
"'Yes. Yes, I know you. I have seen you before... I had a dream when I was six years old, and you three were in the dream... I was told that you would come from far away to preach the gospel to the world (p. 127).'"
"How good was the God of Creation to love each of his children personally? To be aware of a young girl living in a small stone house on a mountainside in northern Italy. To send her a dream in the night that would make her feel comfortable with the message and messengers of the gospel. Lorenzo's heart swelled with gratitude and love, and as he walked the grassy path of the Angrogna Valley, he reaffirmed that he would serve the Lord all his days (p. 133)."
"'They are a remarkable people and these valleys have always been a special place where faith is obvious. It is as if faith is engraved into the very soil (p. 145).'"
"'The gospel we preach is that of the Lord Jesus Christ--the primitive church restored by revelation to a prophet (p. 152).'"
"'I believe you are servants of God, and I would like to be counted among your flock (p. 156).'"
"Jean Antoine Bose was the first LDS baptism in Italy. He was baptized October 27, 1850 (p. 158)."
"'I pray also that you may find the truth... God placed words in my mouth (p. 172).'"
"'There is work that must be done and therefore prayers needed for its accomplishment (p. 181).'"
"He knew his command of the language was ragged, but he prayed for guidance (p. 195)."
"'Just like Joseph Smith, my vision came in the spring of 1820, just before my fifteenth birthday... Do I think the Lord is aware of things from the beginning to the end?... Yes, I do. Miracles are all around us. We just need to have the eyes to see them... I was reading about the life of Christ and His apostles, and pondering the gospel as taught by them. I was wishing I could have lived in those days... I felt a heavenly influence in the room and I began singing a sacred hymn. Twelve personages dressed in white robes appeared and formed a half-circle around my cot. They began singing with me. At the end of the song they and the light vanished (p. 199).'"
"'Leave him!... He is under m protection in this house!'.... 'We don't mean you harm--just the Mormon (p. 204).'"
"'Your preaching has caused strife in the community. There are rumors that Joseph Smith copied the words of your Book of Mormon from someone else, that he stole people's money, and encouraged mob violence against the authority of the states and even the United States government (p. 216).'"
"'I did not have the privilege of knowing the Prophet Joseph Smith, but I was taught the gospel by many who did know him, and to a man they testified that he was a good person. Elder Snow was a personal friend and has a depth of feeling for that man, and for the miraculous things he accomplished in his short lifetime. Do you find Elder Snow a man to be easily misled (p. 217)?'"
"'Are you afraid?.... I have only been a member of this church for a short time, and I assure you, Father Andrew, that when the doctrine was first preached to me I felt the fire of testimony and the chill of fear... I laid my fears out in front of the missionaries who were instructing me. They assured me that the Lord loved me and was aware of every prayer, every kindness, and every act of service. That I was God's child and He knew my heart (p. 217).'"
"'With the return of priesthood power, the promises of Malachi would be realized. The hearts of the fathers and the children would turn to each other in a desire for eternal families.... There was a temple built in Nauvoo, Illinois, and the Prophet Joseph was given all the temple ordinances. Many sealings were performed before the Prophet was murdered and the Saints were driven out of the state by mobs... The power remains with the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles... And one of the first things Brigham Young did when they reached the Salt Lake Valley was to walk to a certain spot, plant his cane in the ground, and declare that on that spot they would build a temple to the Most High God (p. 218).'"
"'I have secured the services of a retired Oxford professor who is working on the translation of the Book of Mormon into Italian. I have felt for many months the urging of the Spirit concerning this enterprise. It is of vital importance, Eliza, for I believe, like many of us, the Italian faithful will be drawn to the restored gospel of Christ because of the power of the Book of Mormon (p. 228).'"
"'In Italy we publish books and pamphlets at the risk of coming in collision with the Catholic Church and, thereby, the government. We cannot sell Bibles or books of scriptures, and we are not permitted to preach in public (p. 230).'"
"'The mobs conspired to ruin the Church by killing the Prophet and driving us from our homes... Yet here we are. Here, in this rugged mountain valley, and in many countries of the world (p. 231).'"
"'I testify that the Lord is aware of us. Be well (p. 232).'"
"'You are young, but many of you may have to face persecution if you join with this church (p. 254).'"
"'Don't you understand? I would be giving up everything.'... 'I do understand, my dear friend. Do you think it will be easy to leave everything we've ever known, our beautiful mountains, our lives, and our Waldensian faith? Where are we going? To an unknown wilderness.... Remember the story Elder Woodward told of the women and children walking over the snow-crusted ground? Their feet bloody from the walking?... Why didn't they give up? Why didn't they just go back to their old lives where they had comfort and security?... Because they knew it was true. A light had been placed in their hearts...a light that would never go out (p. 259).'"
"'We are pioneers now. Should we be worried about a little cold water (p. 265)?'"
"'That day, as I gave up my pride and my sins to God, a light came into my heart, at first a small flame like the light from a candle (p. 271).'"
"'There will come a time when you must do as the Lord directs (p. 272).'"
"'I testify that you hold in your hands a sacred book, a second testimony of our Lord Jesus Christ... I testify that it was translated by the gift and power of God. Read it carefully, read it prayerfully, and you will know of its truth (p. 273).'"
"Elder Snow put his hand on John Malan's shoulder, marveling at the strength of the man and the small band of Saints for whom he was shepherd (p. 277)."
"'Thank you for the gospel of Christ... We will work hard and prepare ourselves to come to Zion (p. 278).'"
"'For the strength of the hills we bless thee, our God, our fathers' God (p. 287).'"
"[Lorenzo Snow] arrived home July 30, 1852... The first group of Waldensian Saints left Torre Pellice on February 19, 1854. They sailed from Liverpool, England, with some four hundred other European converts on the ship John M. Wood. The company arrived in New Orleans on May 2, 1854. The group then traveled by steamboat to Saint Louis, where they were placed in quarantine because of an outbreak of cholera in that city. Many of the company fell ill and many died. Eventually the sickness abated and the quarantine was lifted. The Cardon family, along with the Pons and Bertoch families, reached the Salt Lake Valley on October 29, 185, and were greeted by Joseph Toronto (p. 291)."
"The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was officially recognized as a religion by the Italian government July 30, 2012 (p. 293)."
August 27, 2023
The title 'One Candle' refers to a depiction on a wooden plaque in a Waldenese temple in the mountains of northern Italy. This book takes place there in 1848-1854 where the first missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints came to preach.
The first four chapters are from the perspective of these people in northern Italy, highlighting how they were prepared to receive the message of the restoration. Perhaps the main character is a Catholic priest named Father Andrew. Then, it changes to be from the perspective of the missionaries, namely Lorenzo Snow. It goes back and forth until the two perspectives merge. However, something was off. The detailed foreshadowing of the first few chapters seemed disconnected from the rest of the book as though either someone else took over writing the book or the author changed her mind about connecting the first chapters to the rest of the book.
The audience for this book is members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The first few chapters were written in a way that might have been for a wider audience. However, later in the book, as the perspective changed, the writing seemed to be written to a reader who is pretty familiar with the Church. I think this book could have been written in a way that was more introductory to the Church.
Aside from the storyline, it was interesting to read about Father Andrew's health condition. He was in his eighties and often relapsed to memories of his earlier life. I kept thinking that his flashbacks would be relevant, but they didn't seem to be. That's one of my frustrations: why put so much detail in these flashbacks when it only served to indicate his aging condition.
I have read plenty of research reports which cite references at each chapter, but I'd never seen that done in a novel for each chapter. Clearly, the author thoroughly researched the content for this book. The format is very clear to decipher where this is a fictional story and what parts of it were real events. Most chapters actually had real events cited in the chapter end notes.
Some interesting points:
In this area if northern Italy, they spoke French and Italian, but primarily French. These first missionaries in Italy preached from the Bible since the Book of Mormon was not yet translated into Italian or French. The Italian translation occurred during this book.
Content considerations include religious persecution, some of which may be too violent or graphic for a sensitive reader.
Quotes:
"...I hike the trails at night all the time... I think your ancestors were taught to climb by the mountain sheep." P. 256
"...The only answers that come from the streets are of the streets." P. 271
The first four chapters are from the perspective of these people in northern Italy, highlighting how they were prepared to receive the message of the restoration. Perhaps the main character is a Catholic priest named Father Andrew. Then, it changes to be from the perspective of the missionaries, namely Lorenzo Snow. It goes back and forth until the two perspectives merge. However, something was off. The detailed foreshadowing of the first few chapters seemed disconnected from the rest of the book as though either someone else took over writing the book or the author changed her mind about connecting the first chapters to the rest of the book.
The audience for this book is members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The first few chapters were written in a way that might have been for a wider audience. However, later in the book, as the perspective changed, the writing seemed to be written to a reader who is pretty familiar with the Church. I think this book could have been written in a way that was more introductory to the Church.
Aside from the storyline, it was interesting to read about Father Andrew's health condition. He was in his eighties and often relapsed to memories of his earlier life. I kept thinking that his flashbacks would be relevant, but they didn't seem to be. That's one of my frustrations: why put so much detail in these flashbacks when it only served to indicate his aging condition.
I have read plenty of research reports which cite references at each chapter, but I'd never seen that done in a novel for each chapter. Clearly, the author thoroughly researched the content for this book. The format is very clear to decipher where this is a fictional story and what parts of it were real events. Most chapters actually had real events cited in the chapter end notes.
Some interesting points:
In this area if northern Italy, they spoke French and Italian, but primarily French. These first missionaries in Italy preached from the Bible since the Book of Mormon was not yet translated into Italian or French. The Italian translation occurred during this book.
Content considerations include religious persecution, some of which may be too violent or graphic for a sensitive reader.
Quotes:
"...I hike the trails at night all the time... I think your ancestors were taught to climb by the mountain sheep." P. 256
"...The only answers that come from the streets are of the streets." P. 271
April 29, 2022
After reading The Silence of God, I was a little worried about this book. However, this seemed to have a naturally "happy" ending, so I didn't figure she would try to change history this time the way she did with that book. As near as I can tell, that is a correct assessment.
Starting with criticisms. I wasn't super fond of the way Sears handled anything that happened in Salt Lake. I felt it all could have been handled the way she did towards the end of the book, where she just had Lorenzo Snow writing letters to Eliza -- or him just reading letters from home. The opening conversation with Lorenzo and Eliza was really awkward. It was like Sears was trying to teach us Church history through a conversation that would never have been likely to happen. Then she alluded to an Indian attack but didn't fill in any details. I would rather have had her summarize the familiar history in a footnote and include more of the unfamiliar history like the Indian attack in the main story line. I wasn't fond of the way she handled the situation with his wives. She talked about wives, plural (which he had), but then only really addressed Charlotte, like none of the others mattered. I have personal issues that way, so it likely wouldn't bug others the way it bugged me. I also wish she would have been a little clearer about who was historical and who was fictional. The story about Joseph Guy was true -- what about Albertina? I'm guessing no, since she wasn't in any of the footnotes, but it's hard to be sure.
Now for the positives: I think it was in Conference that someone talked about the Waldensian Saints, and I've really wanted to learn more about them. In this way, the book was quite interesting. The faith of those people is truly incredible, and I had no idea that there had been a break like that from the Catholic Church so many years before the Protestant Reformation. I liked the notes she included -- it seems like she did quite a bit of research. I found Lorenzo's dream about the fish very interesting, especially in light of the fact that I read something secular that called his mission a failure because there were so few people converted. It made me smile at the end when she included a little tidbit about how now there are tens of thousands members of the Church who are descended from the Waldensian Saints -- not such a failure, after all. :)
Starting with criticisms. I wasn't super fond of the way Sears handled anything that happened in Salt Lake. I felt it all could have been handled the way she did towards the end of the book, where she just had Lorenzo Snow writing letters to Eliza -- or him just reading letters from home. The opening conversation with Lorenzo and Eliza was really awkward. It was like Sears was trying to teach us Church history through a conversation that would never have been likely to happen. Then she alluded to an Indian attack but didn't fill in any details. I would rather have had her summarize the familiar history in a footnote and include more of the unfamiliar history like the Indian attack in the main story line. I wasn't fond of the way she handled the situation with his wives. She talked about wives, plural (which he had), but then only really addressed Charlotte, like none of the others mattered. I have personal issues that way, so it likely wouldn't bug others the way it bugged me. I also wish she would have been a little clearer about who was historical and who was fictional. The story about Joseph Guy was true -- what about Albertina? I'm guessing no, since she wasn't in any of the footnotes, but it's hard to be sure.
Now for the positives: I think it was in Conference that someone talked about the Waldensian Saints, and I've really wanted to learn more about them. In this way, the book was quite interesting. The faith of those people is truly incredible, and I had no idea that there had been a break like that from the Catholic Church so many years before the Protestant Reformation. I liked the notes she included -- it seems like she did quite a bit of research. I found Lorenzo's dream about the fish very interesting, especially in light of the fact that I read something secular that called his mission a failure because there were so few people converted. It made me smile at the end when she included a little tidbit about how now there are tens of thousands members of the Church who are descended from the Waldensian Saints -- not such a failure, after all. :)
August 17, 2018
This book is a somewhat fictionalized history of the first missionaries to and members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Italy, the converts being the Waldenese (Waldensians) in the high mountain valleys of the Piedmont, in about 1850. Sears has done her research and includes excerpts from correspondence between missionary Apostle Lorenzo Snow and his sister back in the Salt Lake Valley, Eliza R. Snow, and other research based on the histories of the converts. Some of the converts are based on real people who joined the Church; a few main characters are created by Sears for purposes of the story. The account is interesting and perhaps could have been more interesting had Sears been willing to go beyond a rather bare-bones approach to fill in the history with fictional situations, description, and more detail without changing the history; it is as though she could not decide whether to write a novel or a history or what level of engagement her readers would be willing to have, and ended up scanting both fiction and history. The creation of an open-minded Catholic priest as the great-uncle of one of the young women investigating the Church was a good addition, although he seemed to be a somewhat incredible figure and a more central character compared to the missionaries and converts the book is really about. The book seems chopped up by notes to each brief chapter about what was historical in the chapter--these would better have been placed at the end of the book. And the one note that seemed most needed (and was not there) was an indication that the hymn, "For the Strength of the Hills," which the characters in the book sing, was written in Switzerland in 1835 and could have been known to the Waldenese; it is not a Mormon pioneer hymn, although it certainly reads like one. (I got that information from Karen Lynn Davidson's Our LDS Hymns: The Stories and the Messages.) This could have been a more fascinating story had the author been equally careful of the story and the history, developing the characters, settings, and events more fully and providing even more history and detail about the Waldenese; as it is, it is interesting but left me feeling less than satisfied.
September 10, 2020
I've read Gale Sears before ("Upon the Mountains" is NOT one of her best) "The Silence of God" and "Letters in the Jade Dragon Box" are very well researched but weak in story so this book was no surprise-her typical writing style.
Almost all the characters in this story were real people and I liked the b-plot that involved one of the greatest single childless women in the church who ever lived, one of my heroes-Eliza Snow. As brother to a future prophet, naturally, she had to be included in the story. I could read an entire historical novel about her (hint-hint, Gale!).
Dear old Uncle Andrew is a Catholic priest who apparently lived quite the colorful life before he found religion. I honestly thought he was a real person until I read other reviews and since the author never told us what happened to him in her Author's Endnote or to his great-niece Madeleine, it was a let down.
Struggling against her Catholic upbringing, Madeleine is encouraged by her great uncle to always seek truth and be brave enough to follow it. Her best friend is one of the reasons God inspired church leaders such as Apostle Lorenzo Snow to open an LDS mission in the Alpine mountains of northern Italy spanning the French and Swiss borders where a group of Christians seeking the true church that Christ established settled many hundreds of years ago. They faced terrible persecution from the Catholics in the area. All the violence is in flashbacks and is very mild. Other than that there is nothing inappropriate-no kissing or swearing.
The way these people were prepared to receive the gospel is very inspiring. The best part is, all the dreams, visions and miracle that take place in this story are all true.
It is worth reading and I recommend it. I hadn't read anything by this author in many years. I'm glad I picked this up at my local Deseret Industries thrift store and gave it a try.
Almost all the characters in this story were real people and I liked the b-plot that involved one of the greatest single childless women in the church who ever lived, one of my heroes-Eliza Snow. As brother to a future prophet, naturally, she had to be included in the story. I could read an entire historical novel about her (hint-hint, Gale!).
Dear old Uncle Andrew is a Catholic priest who apparently lived quite the colorful life before he found religion. I honestly thought he was a real person until I read other reviews and since the author never told us what happened to him in her Author's Endnote or to his great-niece Madeleine, it was a let down.
Struggling against her Catholic upbringing, Madeleine is encouraged by her great uncle to always seek truth and be brave enough to follow it. Her best friend is one of the reasons God inspired church leaders such as Apostle Lorenzo Snow to open an LDS mission in the Alpine mountains of northern Italy spanning the French and Swiss borders where a group of Christians seeking the true church that Christ established settled many hundreds of years ago. They faced terrible persecution from the Catholics in the area. All the violence is in flashbacks and is very mild. Other than that there is nothing inappropriate-no kissing or swearing.
The way these people were prepared to receive the gospel is very inspiring. The best part is, all the dreams, visions and miracle that take place in this story are all true.
It is worth reading and I recommend it. I hadn't read anything by this author in many years. I'm glad I picked this up at my local Deseret Industries thrift store and gave it a try.
February 5, 2020
I loved this beautiful story about Lorenzo Snow’s mission to Italy and surrounding regions, including his work in the Piedmont, Italy, region, where resided the Waldensian people, Christians originally led by Peter Waldo in the 1100s, who felt their church was closer to the true gospel of Jesus Christ than any on the earth, and who suffered tremendous persecution for their beliefs. And the story isn’t just centered on Elder Snow’s perspective or that of his companions. We also come to know a local elderly Catholic priest and his fellow priests in the monastery, and the priest’s Waldenese relatives and friends. Rich faith, traditions, and a search for truth combine to make a powerful story that adds another dimension to the beautiful and ongoing drama of the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I gained a new appreciation for the hymn, “For the Strength of the Hills”, and recognize the similarities between the Waldensian faithful and the Saints of my own heritage. I also gained an added conviction that God loves and blesses all His faithful children who are sincerely trying to follow Him and pursue truth.
July 17, 2018
When I first began this book, I didn't know anything about it. It was part of a large pile of ebooks I picked up to read over summer vacation; I was pleasantly surprised.
I had never heard of the Waldensian people and knew nothing of their history, religion, or persecution. The book has ample documentation for a piece of fiction, and uses exact wording from letters where appropriate. However, I always struggle when actual historical figures are central characters in fictional books especially when given strong personalities. The use of journals and first hand sources helped ease that discomfort, but it was still there.
This novel sheds light on early Italian converts to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and the missionaries (including Lorenzo Snow) that sacrificed to share their message.
I had never heard of the Waldensian people and knew nothing of their history, religion, or persecution. The book has ample documentation for a piece of fiction, and uses exact wording from letters where appropriate. However, I always struggle when actual historical figures are central characters in fictional books especially when given strong personalities. The use of journals and first hand sources helped ease that discomfort, but it was still there.
This novel sheds light on early Italian converts to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and the missionaries (including Lorenzo Snow) that sacrificed to share their message.
December 7, 2018
I bought this for a relative because he served his mission in Northern Italy. The summary on the back was intriguing and of course, I had to read it before he opens it. (Won’t surprise him in the least!) I liked it but was mostly interested learning about the Waldenese people - of which I had never heard of. That part was fascinating, and I especially enjoyed the notations at the end of each chapter citing the actual sources.
The story that threaded the actual facts was good, but not riveting reading. I’m sure it wasn’t an easy task to fit them all together in a plot. (Must say though, I really loved sweet Father Andrew!) I absolutely believe Madeleine’s dreams and the chronicle of events, but was more fascinated with the facts and the report of how these courageous, faithful Italian saints lived out the rest of their lives.
Now I can wrap the book up!
The story that threaded the actual facts was good, but not riveting reading. I’m sure it wasn’t an easy task to fit them all together in a plot. (Must say though, I really loved sweet Father Andrew!) I absolutely believe Madeleine’s dreams and the chronicle of events, but was more fascinated with the facts and the report of how these courageous, faithful Italian saints lived out the rest of their lives.
Now I can wrap the book up!
February 7, 2019
ONE CANDLE by GALE SEARS
I liked the book because it was quite interesting because it went back and forth on different opinions between the catholic priest and the Mormon missionaries. It is based off of a true story about the first LDS missionaries in Italy, in the early days of the restoration and where the three missionaries came from and what they gave up to serve. My favorite character is Colonel Beckwith because he made sure the missionaries were safe and not in harm of any kind and kept people from attacking them. “You have family in America?” Elder snow left his family in America to go to Italy to teach the people there the gospel. My least favorite character is father Pious because he has a very bad attitude and isn't really nice to people and he doesn’t have good manners to anyone. “the audacity,” Father Pious hissed.
I liked the book because it was quite interesting because it went back and forth on different opinions between the catholic priest and the Mormon missionaries. It is based off of a true story about the first LDS missionaries in Italy, in the early days of the restoration and where the three missionaries came from and what they gave up to serve. My favorite character is Colonel Beckwith because he made sure the missionaries were safe and not in harm of any kind and kept people from attacking them. “You have family in America?” Elder snow left his family in America to go to Italy to teach the people there the gospel. My least favorite character is father Pious because he has a very bad attitude and isn't really nice to people and he doesn’t have good manners to anyone. “the audacity,” Father Pious hissed.
June 25, 2018
For me this book held special meaning since I have ancestors who were involved in the events related in this book. Perhaps that influenced my positive opinion, but I think anyone interested in a story about courage in the face of severe persecution would enjoy this book. It would be interesting in a fiction book, but knowing that this is based on historical fact makes it much more compelling. I have read other books by Gale Sears, and all are well written. If you are interested in Waldenese history, or LDS history in Italy, I highly recommend this book. The characters are believable, and the story is sweet without being sappy.
December 21, 2022
A beautiful missionary story, set in 1849 Italy. Lorenzo Snow has been called to preach the gospel in the Piedmont region (Alpine mountains) of Italy. Based on the true story of the first LDS missionaries in Italy, One Candle shows how, even in the early years of the Church, the Gospel moved quickly in the European area.
This is, I believe, the second Gale Sears book I've read. I absolutely love her attention to detail and how she includes historical notes, journal entries, and personal experiences of her characters to craft an engaging and eloquent story.
I highly recommend her books--especially if you enjoy reading historical fiction, with a Church history bent.
This is, I believe, the second Gale Sears book I've read. I absolutely love her attention to detail and how she includes historical notes, journal entries, and personal experiences of her characters to craft an engaging and eloquent story.
I highly recommend her books--especially if you enjoy reading historical fiction, with a Church history bent.
January 21, 2019
A wonderful story with footnotes to explain what is truth and what is fiction (I always appreciate this feature). There were so many details of Elder Lorenzo Snow's life that I never knew. I particularly enjoyed reading about the visions of the young women and old people and how they played a role with their conversion to the gospel. Although the content ans storyline was new to me, I found the novel a little choppy, and a little slow. I ended up skimming it and reading the sections I really wanted to read and skipping the rest. Worth reading.
May 7, 2019
One Candle is a well written story of the early missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to Italy. The author does a wonderful job of portraying the sacrifices made by Lorenzo Snow and his companions to bring the restored gospel to the much persecuted Waldenese. Her characters are complex and engaging, bringing the reader along on a journey of miracles. Gale Sears’ books are not to be missed!
July 2, 2019
It was interesting to learn about the people of Northern Italy- the Waldonese. Lorenzo Snow was the missionary who opened this area. It made me want to visit there- the scenery sounded beautiful. The early saints had hard struggles leaving home and family. These early missionaries had hard times as well. If this is historically accurate Elder Snow's wife died while he was serving. That would have been so hard.
June 2, 2023
Awesome book! Well written I thought. Great Uncle Andrew was my favorite I think 🥰
"remember me" families can be together forever. We are connected. This book brought a heavy heart at times but soon followed with sweetness and full of blessings.
Wonderful to learn about the Waldanese people, whom I had never known of before, towns named Piedmont now will hold a different meaning - now I'm interested in learning more.
"remember me" families can be together forever. We are connected. This book brought a heavy heart at times but soon followed with sweetness and full of blessings.
Wonderful to learn about the Waldanese people, whom I had never known of before, towns named Piedmont now will hold a different meaning - now I'm interested in learning more.
May 20, 2018
Very enjoyable
Since I am an ancestor of the Cardon family and have visited that area, on the tour with the author, this was a very enjoyable read. I don't normally enjoy historical novels but I did enjoy this one and thought it was very well written and organized. It created a lot of emotion for me during the reading. Thank you Gale Sears!
Since I am an ancestor of the Cardon family and have visited that area, on the tour with the author, this was a very enjoyable read. I don't normally enjoy historical novels but I did enjoy this one and thought it was very well written and organized. It created a lot of emotion for me during the reading. Thank you Gale Sears!
June 28, 2018
I wish the author had stayed true to the original story and characters, rather than all the "minor changes" that were mentioned throughout the book. I felt as if the author was ever present, in all the characters, and took too many liberties in order for me to truly enjoy the real story. The characters felt too sugary sweet to seem real.
November 15, 2018
The author came to our book club discussion of this book. She was able to meet members of the Cardon family and even travel to Italy with them to see their borgata.
This book was fascinating. Thankfully many people kept journals of the miracles, visions and prophecies which occurred in their lives. God prepared them for centuries to receive His restored gospel. It inspired me.
This book was fascinating. Thankfully many people kept journals of the miracles, visions and prophecies which occurred in their lives. God prepared them for centuries to receive His restored gospel. It inspired me.
February 3, 2019
I enjoy reading about church history, & I especially love when there are end notes detailing what actually happened from the chapter. I loved how Sears used actual wording from letters & journals. My only complaint is that I could never determine if Albertina Guy was a real or fictional character! (Her family’s inn did exist, so I guess I should research a little more.)
June 1, 2019
The story and history is super interesting. The writing was not quite there. Could have used another round of editing. I wish this had been a straight history and not the fictionalized version. The storytelling detracted from the actual history, which I found fascinating. I would recommend this based on that, I just think it could have been a lot more.
August 8, 2019
Another story from Gale Sears based on a true story of the missionary experiences of this time Lorenzo Snow in the mountains of Italy. She has a gift for helping you experience the feelings and adventures her characters go through, feeling what they felt, and especially the Spirit behind the encounters. Beautiful retelling.
October 5, 2019
This was an interesting book about the first converts in Italy. I overall really enjoyed it but I think they spent a lot of time of somethings while not covering others. The ending was interesting, the time jump was sort of, woah, but I guess they didn't want to drag things on... The story made me tear up a few times. Some real tender moments.
March 20, 2022
I really enjoyed this insight into the life of Lorenzo Snow and the conversion of the Waldensian saints in the Piedmont region of Italy in the 1850's. I really appreciated the author's footnotes clarifying what was factual. I also loved how the author wove the story around three old friends, one of whom is a Catholic Priest.
September 20, 2018
Well told account, based on the origins of the LDS church in Italy. I was a missionary there and was aware of this story. Remarkable people of faith - both the Waldensian and the original missionaries to Italy in those early years of the church.
September 28, 2018
This is your pretty standard LDS historical fiction. Skirting around difficult topics but emphasizing the miraculous and allowing the simple truths to be the star of the show. Not an earth shattering read but enjoyable.
October 22, 2018
This takes place around 1850 in the mountains of Italy. It is the story of Lorenzo Snow opening the area of Piedmont, Italy for the preaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. What an incredible story of the Waldenese people.
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