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A Flame in the Dark
The Reformation changed the world—and the lives of ordinary people.
Heinrich is a university student learning from Doctor Martin Luther in Wittenberg. When Luther posts his Ninety-Five Theses, Heinrich’s life—along with the lives of his family and friends—is changed forever.
Join Heinrich and those he loves as they learn to give and receive grace, but more importantly as they learn about the free grace God offers His children. A Flame in the Dark shows how the reverberations of Luther’s Reformation echoed not only throughout the world, but also in the lives of ordinary people.
Praise for A Flame in the Dark
“A warm and engaging tale.”
—Heidi Goehmann, author of Altogether Beautiful
“Reading A Flame in the Dark is like stepping back into Reformation-era Wittenberg, Germany. Sarah Baughman carefully crafts a believable tale with a fresh perspective.”
—Sue Matzke, avid reader and pastor’s wife
“Even though this story takes place during the Reformation, the message in A Flame in the Dark is nevertheless prevalent today, tomorrow, and well into the future.”
—Adriann Harris, book reviewer
“If you enjoy historical fiction, be sure to add this one to your list!”
—Jamie Lapeyrolerie, Musings of Jamie
Heinrich is a university student learning from Doctor Martin Luther in Wittenberg. When Luther posts his Ninety-Five Theses, Heinrich’s life—along with the lives of his family and friends—is changed forever.
Join Heinrich and those he loves as they learn to give and receive grace, but more importantly as they learn about the free grace God offers His children. A Flame in the Dark shows how the reverberations of Luther’s Reformation echoed not only throughout the world, but also in the lives of ordinary people.
Praise for A Flame in the Dark
“A warm and engaging tale.”
—Heidi Goehmann, author of Altogether Beautiful
“Reading A Flame in the Dark is like stepping back into Reformation-era Wittenberg, Germany. Sarah Baughman carefully crafts a believable tale with a fresh perspective.”
—Sue Matzke, avid reader and pastor’s wife
“Even though this story takes place during the Reformation, the message in A Flame in the Dark is nevertheless prevalent today, tomorrow, and well into the future.”
—Adriann Harris, book reviewer
“If you enjoy historical fiction, be sure to add this one to your list!”
—Jamie Lapeyrolerie, Musings of Jamie
400 pages, Paperback
Published June 12, 2018
18 people are currently reading
736 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Baughman
4 books81 followersSarah Baughman, author of A Flame in the Dark, loves cool weather and warm beverages.
When Sarah isn’t writing or spending time with her husband and kids, she may be time-traveling in books, pretending to garden, or dabbling in whichever homemade item has caught her fancy this week.
Dark roast and dark chocolate, peppermint tea and eclectic salads, walks with family, music of all kinds, and learning from God’s Word are some of Sarah’s favorite things.
When Sarah isn’t writing or spending time with her husband and kids, she may be time-traveling in books, pretending to garden, or dabbling in whichever homemade item has caught her fancy this week.
Dark roast and dark chocolate, peppermint tea and eclectic salads, walks with family, music of all kinds, and learning from God’s Word are some of Sarah’s favorite things.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
May 10, 2019
This is one of the best books I've read so far this year. Actually, it's one of the best books I've EVER read. It's filled with such rich character development and meaty discussions of how God's words apply to our lives. I talk a lot about how important characters are to me when it comes to enjoying a book or coming to love it -- these characters were so real and wonderful, I actually worried about what was happening to them whenever I wasn't actively reading the book. That's some powerful writing, folks.
I also loved how Martin Luther was portrayed: kind, humorous, compassionate, stubborn, hasty, and wholly dedicated to understanding the Word of God and illuminating it for others. He's shown to be an intelligent, determined, Christ-focused man, both human and humane.
The main character, Heinrich Ritter, is studying law at the University of Wittenberg. When he can, he attends Dr. Luther's theology lectures. Heinrich boards with a middle-class family, the Diefenbachs, who live just outside town. He's romantically interested in their oldest daughter, Marlein, but hesitates to make his interest known to her because she spends all her time caring for her family. Her father is a busy candlemaker, kind but often distracted. Her mother suffers from crippling depression centered around mutliple miscarriages, among other things, and rarely leaves her room. That leaves Marlein to run the household and cares for the children.
Into this hectic world bursts Brigita, Heinrich's younger sister who's running from her past and carrying a secret. Through caring for his sister and trying to ease Marlein's load, Heinrich comes to undersand that God's plans are not always our plans, and that sometimes the best way to help someone is just to ask, "What can I do?" instead of trying to solve their problems for them. He seeks guidance from Dr. Luther several times, trying to understand what his role is as a brother, a possible suitor, and a friend, and I think the thing I loved best about this book (aside from the characters) was how it looked at vocations and burdens from so many angles.
Plus, it's beautifully written, paying wonderful attention to historical details. I don't know what Baughman intends to write next, but I do know I already want to read whatever it is.
I also loved how Martin Luther was portrayed: kind, humorous, compassionate, stubborn, hasty, and wholly dedicated to understanding the Word of God and illuminating it for others. He's shown to be an intelligent, determined, Christ-focused man, both human and humane.
The main character, Heinrich Ritter, is studying law at the University of Wittenberg. When he can, he attends Dr. Luther's theology lectures. Heinrich boards with a middle-class family, the Diefenbachs, who live just outside town. He's romantically interested in their oldest daughter, Marlein, but hesitates to make his interest known to her because she spends all her time caring for her family. Her father is a busy candlemaker, kind but often distracted. Her mother suffers from crippling depression centered around mutliple miscarriages, among other things, and rarely leaves her room. That leaves Marlein to run the household and cares for the children.
Into this hectic world bursts Brigita, Heinrich's younger sister who's running from her past and carrying a secret. Through caring for his sister and trying to ease Marlein's load, Heinrich comes to undersand that God's plans are not always our plans, and that sometimes the best way to help someone is just to ask, "What can I do?" instead of trying to solve their problems for them. He seeks guidance from Dr. Luther several times, trying to understand what his role is as a brother, a possible suitor, and a friend, and I think the thing I loved best about this book (aside from the characters) was how it looked at vocations and burdens from so many angles.
Plus, it's beautifully written, paying wonderful attention to historical details. I don't know what Baughman intends to write next, but I do know I already want to read whatever it is.
October 28, 2022
3 Reasons to read A Flame in the Dark: A Novel about Luther's Reformation
𝟑. 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
The characters in this story represent a cross-section of society—then and now—making it easy to relate and even empathize with them. I admired Heinrich for his sense of duty and thirst for knowledge, Marlein for her servant's heart and compassion toward others, and Matthäus for his gentle way with Brigita. While there was nothing new about the struggles they faced (melancholy, shame, grief), the way they allowed the Word of God to permeate their lives made for an uplifting read.
𝟐. 𝐇𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲
On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther nailed his Ninety-Five Theses to the castle church door in Wittenberg. His theses were copied and distributed throughout Europe leading to a host of church and societal reforms. This is a great selection for adult readers interested in learning about the Protestant Reformation through fiction. While it's not a biographical account of Luther's life, the reformer's sermons, lectures, and counsel directly shapes how the story unfolds. The author does a splendid job of capturing daily life in Wittenberg during this period as well as the tumultuous religious climate.
“Father Martin seldom mentions his Theses in class, but today, he gave indulgences as an example of where some people move away from the throne of grace, rather than toward it. That grace and mercy are found there alone, and no other place. The chief ‘other place’ being Tetzel’s indulgence sales.”
“...if priests could pay a penance to keep a mistress, so could he. His Baptism after his birth had cured his original sin, according to the priest presiding over the Stadtkirche Marien at the time, and if he paid enough coin and performed enough penance, he was certain he could balance the scale for an early release from purgatory, if he had to go at all.”
𝟏. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞
This historical romance follows one university student and his host family (the Diefenbachs) as they grapple with the New Testament truths Luther has rediscovered, namely that salvation is by grace alone through faith alone (Eph. 2:8-10).
“Listen to me repeat myself, for this is of great importance: Christ alone can save.”
“We must look to God’s Word, His own testament, for our only source of what is right and true.”
“Conviction was painful, to be sure. Unpleasant at best. Heart-breaking at its worst.”
“Strive to bear the burdens of those God has placed in your life, relying on Christ and the blessings of His Spirit to enable you to do this good work.”
“It is Christ alone that saves, Matthäus,” Luther said, earnestly placing a hand upon his arm. “You cannot save your wife any more than you can save yourself from your guilt, real or assumed. Trust in His mercy, gentle husband, not the paper of a man. Trust in God’s grace.”
Post Tenebras Lux 🕯
𝟑. 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
The characters in this story represent a cross-section of society—then and now—making it easy to relate and even empathize with them. I admired Heinrich for his sense of duty and thirst for knowledge, Marlein for her servant's heart and compassion toward others, and Matthäus for his gentle way with Brigita. While there was nothing new about the struggles they faced (melancholy, shame, grief), the way they allowed the Word of God to permeate their lives made for an uplifting read.
𝟐. 𝐇𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲
On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther nailed his Ninety-Five Theses to the castle church door in Wittenberg. His theses were copied and distributed throughout Europe leading to a host of church and societal reforms. This is a great selection for adult readers interested in learning about the Protestant Reformation through fiction. While it's not a biographical account of Luther's life, the reformer's sermons, lectures, and counsel directly shapes how the story unfolds. The author does a splendid job of capturing daily life in Wittenberg during this period as well as the tumultuous religious climate.
“Father Martin seldom mentions his Theses in class, but today, he gave indulgences as an example of where some people move away from the throne of grace, rather than toward it. That grace and mercy are found there alone, and no other place. The chief ‘other place’ being Tetzel’s indulgence sales.”
“...if priests could pay a penance to keep a mistress, so could he. His Baptism after his birth had cured his original sin, according to the priest presiding over the Stadtkirche Marien at the time, and if he paid enough coin and performed enough penance, he was certain he could balance the scale for an early release from purgatory, if he had to go at all.”
𝟏. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞
This historical romance follows one university student and his host family (the Diefenbachs) as they grapple with the New Testament truths Luther has rediscovered, namely that salvation is by grace alone through faith alone (Eph. 2:8-10).
“Listen to me repeat myself, for this is of great importance: Christ alone can save.”
“We must look to God’s Word, His own testament, for our only source of what is right and true.”
“Conviction was painful, to be sure. Unpleasant at best. Heart-breaking at its worst.”
“Strive to bear the burdens of those God has placed in your life, relying on Christ and the blessings of His Spirit to enable you to do this good work.”
“It is Christ alone that saves, Matthäus,” Luther said, earnestly placing a hand upon his arm. “You cannot save your wife any more than you can save yourself from your guilt, real or assumed. Trust in His mercy, gentle husband, not the paper of a man. Trust in God’s grace.”
Post Tenebras Lux 🕯
March 17, 2018
Sarah Baughman manages to weave a warm and engaging tale of family and community life during an extremely tumultuous time in history while introducing the reader to fascinating characters and details of what we know as the Reformation. With a powerfully descriptive pen, Baughman will break your heart and mend it again with topics of loss, shame, honor, depression, and the challenges of family life. As an avid reader, as a wife and mom, and as a mental health professional I found insight and application in every page of this meaningful work.
August 14, 2018
I simply loved this story. It is obviously well researched, with German phrases and place names used appropriately. I also appreciated that the authoress kept to the timeline and did not portray Luther as we are used to thinking of him. Then there's the actual fiction in the story, which I found to be engaging. I find myself wishing for a sequel so we could see these characters develop as the Reformation continues.
October 8, 2022
This is the best kind of historical Christian fiction! Immersive, rich historical details bring the setting and story alive. Messy, broken, realistic characters who grow and learn in a believable manner. Solid theology woven throughout the entire story, directly impacting the thoughts, words, and actions of the characters. Themes of grace, mercy, forgiveness, and vocation show up so seamlessly and provide excellent discussion material for book clubs and groups.
I love that although Luther appears in the novel, he is a secondary character, because it really shows the impact of his Theses and radical theology on those living in Wittenberg at the time. Hoping for a sequel at some point, because the market and my shelves need more of this quality fiction!
I love that although Luther appears in the novel, he is a secondary character, because it really shows the impact of his Theses and radical theology on those living in Wittenberg at the time. Hoping for a sequel at some point, because the market and my shelves need more of this quality fiction!
June 6, 2018
I really enjoyed the book. I like historical fiction, but even more so, I like learning more about the Reformation. Martin Luther is a secondary, but important, character in the book. I found that pretty fascinating, to see how the author would handle such a big figure in history. She did it well! I wanted to hang out with him and chat as much as the main character did.
The two main characters are Heinrich and Marlein. I really grew to love them and wished I could be in their heads even more than I was. (Minor issue: I felt the many POV just weren't necessary. Give me more Heinrich and Marlein!)
Some issues I think will resonate with female readers especially are the haunting stillbirths/miscarriages of a side character, the role of devoted daughter, and how to deal with sexual assault. I think some readers (most?) will find it unsatisfying to realize how assault would've been handled in that time and place. (I wanted to see more justice.)
The cover of the book looks like an oil painting from that time period, so I loved that as well. I enjoyed the setting, being curious about the Reformation, myself. It seemed very authentic and well-done.
I would recommend this book to women who like historical fiction romances (though, I generally don't - and this is not heavy on romance) and those who want a fictional look at church history. I'd love to see a follow-up to it with more Heinrich and Marlein (and a side of Martin Luther, please.)
The two main characters are Heinrich and Marlein. I really grew to love them and wished I could be in their heads even more than I was. (Minor issue: I felt the many POV just weren't necessary. Give me more Heinrich and Marlein!)
Some issues I think will resonate with female readers especially are the haunting stillbirths/miscarriages of a side character, the role of devoted daughter, and how to deal with sexual assault. I think some readers (most?) will find it unsatisfying to realize how assault would've been handled in that time and place. (I wanted to see more justice.)
The cover of the book looks like an oil painting from that time period, so I loved that as well. I enjoyed the setting, being curious about the Reformation, myself. It seemed very authentic and well-done.
I would recommend this book to women who like historical fiction romances (though, I generally don't - and this is not heavy on romance) and those who want a fictional look at church history. I'd love to see a follow-up to it with more Heinrich and Marlein (and a side of Martin Luther, please.)
June 12, 2018
Concordia Publishing House has ventured into historical fiction and I wasn’t disappointed. I truly hope there will be more from this author and possibly continuing this series.
I’m not sure what I liked best about the book because it satiated my love of history, geography, and the study of God’s Word. Sarah took me back to Wittenburg at the very beginning of the Reformation. My memories from a visit to that city blended easily with her artful use of words. Without difficulty I could imagine the characters in their day to day lives. Every once in a while she’d slip in a simple German word into the text which reminded me the characters are actually in old Germany.
She effortlessly added in historical markers through her character development, including information on Father Martin (Martin Luther as a monk and teacher).
Sarah’s love for the Lord shows through her characters as one by one they discover truths in God’s Words. I rejoiced in the enlightenment of the characters as they learned more about God's of loving Grace. The characters shared their questions and their faith with such ease that I wondered why we are so timid these days to share God’s love and grace.
When I first picked up the book I was a little skeptical that it would hold my interest. I am very happy to say that I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a good summer read. Actually, anytime of the year!
I’m not sure what I liked best about the book because it satiated my love of history, geography, and the study of God’s Word. Sarah took me back to Wittenburg at the very beginning of the Reformation. My memories from a visit to that city blended easily with her artful use of words. Without difficulty I could imagine the characters in their day to day lives. Every once in a while she’d slip in a simple German word into the text which reminded me the characters are actually in old Germany.
She effortlessly added in historical markers through her character development, including information on Father Martin (Martin Luther as a monk and teacher).
Sarah’s love for the Lord shows through her characters as one by one they discover truths in God’s Words. I rejoiced in the enlightenment of the characters as they learned more about God's of loving Grace. The characters shared their questions and their faith with such ease that I wondered why we are so timid these days to share God’s love and grace.
When I first picked up the book I was a little skeptical that it would hold my interest. I am very happy to say that I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a good summer read. Actually, anytime of the year!
January 31, 2019
In this novel, Sarah Baughman give readers a glimpse of what life was like in Germany during Luther's Reformation. This is not a novel about Martin Luther, although he does make a few cameo appearances. Nor is it a deep theological read. Rather, it follows the story of real-to-life people who are members of Luther's parish, students in his classes, and fellow residents of Wittenberg. I appreciated the chance to view life in a time far different from our own; a time when Bibles were not readily available in the common language and when Luther's teachings stood in stark opposition to what the Church had been teaching for years. The struggles, both religious and personal, were well portrayed, the characters likable, and the plot interesting enough to keep me turning the pages late into the night.
October 7, 2022
Excellent historical fiction -- Excellent reading!!!
What a captivating and well written novel!! I thoroughly enjoyed it and I'm confident that everyone who enjoys historical fiction will enjoy this one -- it has a great, meaningful story invented within a descriptive setting of the Reformation Era and includes some relevant theology as well! The theology is not overdone; rather it is some well placed gems that provide facts of sparkle meaningfully into the fictional lives of the characters (and relevant to the real lives of the readers as well)!! Well done, indeed!!
What a captivating and well written novel!! I thoroughly enjoyed it and I'm confident that everyone who enjoys historical fiction will enjoy this one -- it has a great, meaningful story invented within a descriptive setting of the Reformation Era and includes some relevant theology as well! The theology is not overdone; rather it is some well placed gems that provide facts of sparkle meaningfully into the fictional lives of the characters (and relevant to the real lives of the readers as well)!! Well done, indeed!!
September 28, 2019
Faith Enhancing
The message is faith strengthening and very clearly written. It does foster a desire and need to look into a mirror to examine our own beliefs and behaviors.
I enjoyed the character development. The plot evolves very slowly and predictably. Seems blasphemous to judge given all the value the story delivers. I freely recommend reading it.
The message is faith strengthening and very clearly written. It does foster a desire and need to look into a mirror to examine our own beliefs and behaviors.
I enjoyed the character development. The plot evolves very slowly and predictably. Seems blasphemous to judge given all the value the story delivers. I freely recommend reading it.
August 8, 2018
I won this book off Goodreads. Loved it!!! Awesome!!!
November 10, 2018
WOW What a book
I loved the characters and storylines. I quickly fell in love with all. Thank you Ms. Vaughan for the book.
I loved the characters and storylines. I quickly fell in love with all. Thank you Ms. Vaughan for the book.
June 12, 2018
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and author in exchange for an honest review. Furthermore, I am friends with the author. However, everything written in this review is my honest opinion.
I'm Lutheran (of the Missouri Synod variety). Being Lutheran, I have a keen interest in Lutheran history, and the history of religions in general. So of course the premise of this novel is right up my alley. When I found out Sarah was writing a novel set during the early days of the Reformation, I knew I had to get my hands on it. And I was not disappointed.
Carefully researched, with excellent characters and message, it was everything I'd hoped it would be. Luther himself is more of a side character, but his influence on every other character is felt strongly, and he is the backbone of the novel. His preaching on salvation through Christ effects the lives of the main characters deeply and in different ways.
The characters were all different and interesting. Each had their own internal story, and it didn't feel like any character was there as a device. Each one had their own motivations and inner life, and they all felt very true. Though the characters live five hundred years in the past, their hopes, troubles, and dreams are still relevant and resonant with the modern day, just perhaps a bit differently.
The story is very much character driven, which I liked very much as a character-driven sort of reader. The story unfolded and drew the characters together until they became their own community bound together by their love for each other and their faith, and their vocations in their roles in the community.
I found myself reading more and more, as I wanted to know more about these characters and how they would solve their problems in life. I found myself smiling at the tender romances, and sighing at the troubles of each character. It was a joy to read, and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys Christian fiction or historical fiction in general.
I'm Lutheran (of the Missouri Synod variety). Being Lutheran, I have a keen interest in Lutheran history, and the history of religions in general. So of course the premise of this novel is right up my alley. When I found out Sarah was writing a novel set during the early days of the Reformation, I knew I had to get my hands on it. And I was not disappointed.
Carefully researched, with excellent characters and message, it was everything I'd hoped it would be. Luther himself is more of a side character, but his influence on every other character is felt strongly, and he is the backbone of the novel. His preaching on salvation through Christ effects the lives of the main characters deeply and in different ways.
The characters were all different and interesting. Each had their own internal story, and it didn't feel like any character was there as a device. Each one had their own motivations and inner life, and they all felt very true. Though the characters live five hundred years in the past, their hopes, troubles, and dreams are still relevant and resonant with the modern day, just perhaps a bit differently.
The story is very much character driven, which I liked very much as a character-driven sort of reader. The story unfolded and drew the characters together until they became their own community bound together by their love for each other and their faith, and their vocations in their roles in the community.
I found myself reading more and more, as I wanted to know more about these characters and how they would solve their problems in life. I found myself smiling at the tender romances, and sighing at the troubles of each character. It was a joy to read, and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys Christian fiction or historical fiction in general.
July 23, 2018
This novel starts off with the characters discussing Martin Luther nailing his 95 Theses to the church door, so I assumed that would be one of the central plot lines. In actuality, Luther only shows up occasionally throughout the story, and is only there to offer advice to the main character just when he needs it. The main plot follows a young man and his desire to balance his studies, his apprenticeship, his duty to his sister, and his feelings for his boss' daughter. While the romance and family dynamics were fairly interesting, the religion aspects of the story would have been more effective if Luther hadn't been used merely as a "wise old sage" type of character, meant only to point the main character in the right direction.
July 13, 2018
Well written book with good character development. Interesting take on how Martin Luther's interpretation of scripture may have changed the life of locals. Unlike many religious theme books that end up teaching a theology of glory, this author weaves a clear theology of the cross in her story of grace and mercy.
May 4, 2019
I loved this book! Characters, plot complexity, historical accuracy and involvement were all spot on and flat out interesting. I flew through this book.
October 19, 2019
Sarah Baughman's novel about a law student who sits in on Martin Luther's theology classes gives a picture of life during the Reformation. I loved learning details about everyday life in that time period and enjoyed the story of the complicated characters in the novel.
Reading how the people of Luther's time responded to the practice of the sale of indulgences was especially eye-opening. As I read, I became more and more appreciative of the truth of God's grace--a free gift that can't be earned or bought!
Reading how the people of Luther's time responded to the practice of the sale of indulgences was especially eye-opening. As I read, I became more and more appreciative of the truth of God's grace--a free gift that can't be earned or bought!
June 10, 2018
Sarah’s writing of this historical fiction novel is magnificent. She paid careful attention to detail and the love of Christ was woven in so gently. I loved the bond between Luther and Heinrich, and also Luther’s sense of humor throughout.
January 19, 2021
"A Flame In The Dark" was a great historical fiction read. It was well researched, and the characters well written. The plot moved at a perfect pace, and was engaging and had plenty of twists to keep the reader intrigued. I was also impressed with Sarah's attention to detail, both in the setting of the chapters and the theological topics she used throughout the book. Overall, it was a great read, and a great introduction to historical fiction for a reader who usually picks up a fantasy or science fiction novel.
November 4, 2023
What a treasure! This book was not at all as I expected. I thought the plot would center around Martin Luther and his family; instead, it centers around several individuals within another family… a “normal” family with concerns, crosses, and crises to bear, who happens to be living in Wittenberg in 1517-18. Luther’s faithful teaching and preaching guide them as they interact with him and with one another, but ultimately it’s their reading and sharing of God’s word that brings light to the darkness in their lives, made possible by Luther’s translating work. Sarah’s writing beautifully captures the essence of our human struggles, emotionally and spiritually. She, too, allows God’s word to permeate the dialog she writes for her characters in ways that give her readers hope and sustenance for their own daily lives, but not in a preachy or fabricated way. Highly recommend this beautifully written story!
August 1, 2018
I qon this book in a Goodreads Giveaway. It follows the stories of several people in Wittenburg at the time that Martin Luther was posting his 95 Thesis. Nice romance with the additional bonus that it shows the effects of Luther on some ordinary people. It doesn't follow the trials of Luthyer or his fight with the Church. Good read.
February 20, 2023
Historically based narratives have a special way of teaching us about the life and times in focus by showing us the life and times of each character. This lovely story shares a snapshot of everyday life in Martin Luther's time. In that day's culture, it weaves in educational and living systems, challenges, joys, and of course, theological growth and discovery. A great read!
August 24, 2019
Such a great story which shares faith and history. Sarah's descriptions of the time and place of the scene made you feel like you were physically there. the grace shared through scripture made me want to look up the readings and dig deeper.
October 2, 2019
Enjoyed the book and learning about Martin Luther from a different perspective. Also, trying time see how a new theology comes about after 1300+ years of Catholicism - faith, grace, ... not works. The story was somewhat predictable, but overall an enjoyable read. I did try to contact the author for bookclub type questions, but never received a response.
December 15, 2019
An enjoyable read; good characterizations. The subtitle "A Reformation Novel" was helpful for situating the time and place of the novel -- though readers should be aware that Luther is only a minor character in this novel.
August 27, 2021
Such a wonderful story. The explanations of Scripture very good. The parts talking with Luther wonderful. Highly recommended reading for anyone particularly Lutherans. And historical fiction to boot!
February 6, 2019
Let me be upfront with regards to this book. If you enjoy heart warming family stories in line with Hallmark then this book is for you. If you are looking for true 16th Century historical fiction about the Reformation I'd recommend looking for another read such as Q by Luther Blissett. A Flame in the Dark is a well written novel. The title, however, is deceptive with relation to the story that is told. The novel recounts the story of a 16th Century family situated in and around the city of Wittenberg and addresses challenging family issues within a Christian context. Discovering the story was really a timeless one that only used the Reformation period as a historical backdrop was a big disappointment. In my opinion the story would have probably been better told using a modern setting rather than 16th Century Germany - it would have related to a larger reading audience. I was hoping for historical fiction engaging multiple historical figures and significant historical events. There really isn't much in this story directly related to the Reformation or any of the political events surrounding the Reformation. Instead there are a few events where Martin Luther makes an appearance as a mentor to the story's protagonist providing advice to the young man as he navigates through his first love and supports his sister.
June 9, 2019
More historical fiction like this needs to be written. It is appropriate for any age as soon as a certain reading skill is learned yet not simplified so as to be boring for adults. Therefore it will not have to be censored for older children if they have an interest in it.
The novel takes place during the birth of the Reformation with the main characters (fictional) actually knowing and interacting with Martin Luther himself. In the story, Heinrich Ritter is a young man studying at the university where Luther lectures on theology; and young Ritter attends his lectures. Luther’s teachings help Ritter to look into scripture and to Christ when dealing with some personal dilemmas as well as those of Ritter’s small family and neighbors.
There is romance and heartbreak amidst the everyday mundane ordinariness of the life in the 16th century right along with joy and peace. Descriptions of lifestyle and clothing throughout the novel help us to remember the time but the characters and their interests are timeless. It is well written and pleasurable to read. It’s a refreshingly good historical romance with the thoughtful consideration of the characters’ faith or lack thereof.
I always judge my interest in a book by how often I need to pick it up and get to the end. This one was a page turner for me and I hope it will be for you too.
The novel takes place during the birth of the Reformation with the main characters (fictional) actually knowing and interacting with Martin Luther himself. In the story, Heinrich Ritter is a young man studying at the university where Luther lectures on theology; and young Ritter attends his lectures. Luther’s teachings help Ritter to look into scripture and to Christ when dealing with some personal dilemmas as well as those of Ritter’s small family and neighbors.
There is romance and heartbreak amidst the everyday mundane ordinariness of the life in the 16th century right along with joy and peace. Descriptions of lifestyle and clothing throughout the novel help us to remember the time but the characters and their interests are timeless. It is well written and pleasurable to read. It’s a refreshingly good historical romance with the thoughtful consideration of the characters’ faith or lack thereof.
I always judge my interest in a book by how often I need to pick it up and get to the end. This one was a page turner for me and I hope it will be for you too.
August 16, 2020
Engaging read. Interesting story of the beginning of the reformation era.
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March 15, 2020This was an easy read. I will definitely look for more books by this author to read. I enjoyed how she weaved in history about Martin Luther in this novel.
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