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By the Light of the Silvery Moon

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Vintage hardcover

Hardcover

First published January 1, 2012

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3090 people want to read

About the author

Tricia Goyer

163 books1,676 followers
Tricia Goyer is a busy mom of ten, grandmother of two, and wife to John. Somewhere around the hustle and bustle of family life, she manages to find the time to write fictional tales delighting and entertaining readers and non-fiction titles offering encouragement and hope. A bestselling author, Tricia has published thirty-three books to date and has written more than 500 articles. She is a two time Carol Award winner, as well as a Christy and ECPA Award Nominee. In 2010, she was selected as one of the Top 20 Moms to Follow on Twitter by SheKnows.com. Tricia is also on the blogging team at MomLifeToday.com, TheBetterMom.com and other homeschooling and Christian sites.In addition to her roles as mom, wife and author, Tricia volunteers around her community and mentors teen moms. She is the founder of Hope Pregnancy Ministries in Northwestern Montana, and she currently leads a Teen MOPS Group in Little Rock, AR. Learn more about Tricia at www.triciagoyer.com.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
Profile Image for Jesseca Wheaton.
Author 13 books192 followers
September 24, 2016
I loved this book. I'm not sure there's much else to say. ;) The beginning was a little slow, but it quickened up soon enough. The parallel to the prodigal son was astounding. And the ending! *cries* I was not expecting that to happen to the person. I thought it would happen to the other brother.
It was also a bit nerve-wracking to read sine you know the time-line of the Titanic's voyage, and I just couldn't figure out how it would all be wrapped up before the ship sank!
I think my favorite part of the story was the brothers. I love reading books about the relationship between brothers. And just how it ended was just ... AUGH! I'm not sure I'll ever get over the ending.
But yes, all in all it was a beautiful book! :)
Profile Image for Hannah.
2,880 reviews1,436 followers
December 26, 2015
I loved this story! I grabbed it in haste because church was about to start, I'd heard the author was local, and the cover was pretty. Not always the most trusty method of finding new favorites! When I read the synopsis, I was sure I'd made a mistake. It's a Titanic story—and I've never liked Titanic stories because people die.

But this story was fabulous. It felt like I was right there from the careful detail of the descriptions. And the characters were so real, it seemed like I'd know them if I met them on the street.

**July update...I tried to order this the first week I read it and was disappointed to find that I couldn't get a paperback copy. Last week I found a hardcover at Half Price bookstore in Texas...so I've reread it and love it just as much as before!
Profile Image for Sarah Sundin.
Author 22 books3,591 followers
March 7, 2012
Be still my heart! A shipboard romance, a prodigal son, Tricia Goyer’s rich historical research, and all the Titanic’s lushness and impending doom—By the Light of the Silvery Moon is everything a historical romance novel should be.

Tricia Goyer is one of my favorite novelists, and this book delighted me. Goyer's storytelling and research shine, and the characters are truly engaging. Most importantly, this story truly touched and moved me. I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Maureen Timerman.
3,237 reviews490 followers
March 1, 2012
As we observe the hundred year mark of the sinking of the Titanic we are remembering that cruise.
Amelia Gladstone is about to embark of the journey of a lifetime. She is traveling to Connecticut with her Aunt Nelda. Her cousin Henry was to join them, but ended up in jail. She has his ticket, and when she observes a man being manhandled and thrown off the ship, she does what she does best, and goes to his rescue.
Quinten gladly takes the ticket and boards. God has his hand in all of this...I am in awe of all that happens. Yes we relive this tragedy, but we also find wonderful God Loving people. Enjoyed reading the description of this great "unsinkable" ship, such opulence.
You meet the Rich and famous and some with a lot of notoriety...and we know the fate of most. We relive the moment of the iceberg hit, and the loading of the life boats...even if we wish things would change here it doesn't.
While reading this enjoy going with Amelia around the ship, and we hear her thoughts! Great! We also experience the wonderful experiences of "Forgiveness". I loved embarking on this cruise, thank you Tricia Goyer.

I received this book from the Publisher Barbour, and was not required to give a positive review.

Profile Image for Melanie.
2,215 reviews598 followers
November 1, 2022
By the Light of the Silvery Moon was such a good read! I knew going in that this story was probably going to be a tough read (since it is set on the Titantic) and it definitely was! Even though it wasn't a completely happy read, I still think it ended as well as it could.

I loved the characters and the twist on the prodigal son parable. You could feel the emotions felt by the father and sons...and it was just SO moving. The romance was sweet and I liked how it gradually grew.

All in all, By the Light of the Silvery Moon was a great read and I recommend it.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
Profile Image for Gemma (Passion for Novels).
104 reviews43 followers
February 7, 2012
like this review see more at http://passionfornovels.blogspot.com

I have to say I was looking forward to this arc so much I read it in November before I realised I couldn't publish my review until February! I love anything set around the time of the Titanic in general, I a bit of a sucker for a love story which I know may have a bad ending, I mean we all know it sinks right?


This novel comes with a lot of religious moments which didn't appeal to me as much, but as a person who isn't very religious it didn't go too far into the storyline so it is still suitable for most readers. The storyline is a great battle between the two brothers Quentin and Damian and their affections for Amelia, the main protagonist. It discusses the importance of deciding a suitable partner for yourself yet Amelia keeps wondering what God has in store for her which I thought was quite contradictory at times.

Amelia is always looking to help anyone she can and this is why Quentin is the brother she is immediately drawn to. At the beginning we are unaware that the two are brothers and in fact long lost, Quentin left home and never kept in touch due to an horrific accident in the past. I enjoyed the fact that the book did skip briefly to a different time period where Quentin and Damian were young, you really get a sense of why Quentin has struggled through life and why Damian feels the need to protect his father. You get lost in a lovely storyline which makes your heart glow.

In terms of history and the Titanic I think Goyer has done an amazing amount of research and it really pays of in the storyline. I really found that once I got into this book I really couldn't put it down and read it in two days. In the year of its 100th anniversary Tricia Goyer has done it proud as her setting for this truely heart-wrenching story.
Profile Image for Kate.
268 reviews10 followers
December 5, 2011
Quentin, who has seen much in his life and as of lately is now in great need. When a stranger hands him a boarding pass aboard the Titanic, promise and chance has given him an opportunity to make a change in his life.
Amelia is amazed of what the Titanic has to offer its passengers. Traveling with her Aunt Neda they leave all behind to venture to America to meet Mr Chapman the man she has been corresponding with. Amelia's heart always looking to help a person in need, her unselfishness not going unnoticed.
Damien, the son of wealthy businessman Clarence Walpole, does not expect to find aboard the Titanic what he has long given up. He is looking to find the girl of his dreams. He has everything money can buy, but could he "buy" the one he longs for most?
A well reseached and well crafted novel of happiness, heartbreak, forgiveness and darkness are tied together in one impossible to put down book. Peer into the lives and hearts of these realistic characters and journey with them aboard a great ship on it's ill-fated maiden voyage. Stories and accounts about Titanic has captured the attention and hearts of so many over the years. This book brings this time to life along with very descriptive, charming and fulfilling scenery. A romantic and suspenseful read that will keep you reading until the end! Plot, character development, dialogue, description and scenery all mesh together expertly making this an inspiring read one I won't forget anytime soon! I recommend this novel to everyone as we near the 100th anniversary of the Titanic's sinking to catch a glimpse of history!! Thanks so much to Barbour Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC for my review!
Profile Image for Melissa.
870 reviews91 followers
May 18, 2012
I was quite disappointed by this book, since Tricia Goyer books are often some of my favorites and her romance is often more realistic than others.

I keep a journal of negatives and positives for most of the books I read, and here are some for this book.

Negatives: Everyone seems to be instantly drawn to or attracted by the main lady character. She is pretty, yes, and nice, but this is not always the way it happens and perhaps would give the readers the same imagination of young men falling for them.
Main character (Amelia) lies about some things.
Too much emphasis on romantic reactions, such as goosebumps. Giving a playful pout and other flirtatious behavior.
Amelia thinks of getting advice from a Catholic priest.

Positives: Wealth and luxury not the goal, people shown as happy in poorer classes. Amelia tries to help the poor and needy, and shares the gospel with Quentin. Waits on God and prays. Quite a few historical people and details are mentioned.

So, I liked some of it. But, Mrs. Goyer, my talented acquaintance, I would encourage you to remember not just realism, but also more of godly, restrained character to be shown by your heroines. Not perfection, but there could be more growth in the characters.
Profile Image for Leeanne.
13 reviews62 followers
March 23, 2021
This had the potential to be a wonderful story considering the setting, but I found the writing style a bit mediocre. I felt as though I was reading the rough draught of the screen play for the movie Titanic, because there were so many similar details to the story of Jack and Rose. Also wish the loose threads could have been tied up - like what happened to Amelia's mother? I did like the references to God and the bible, and the reminders of His love for, and promises to, us.
Profile Image for Darcy Schock.
408 reviews21 followers
July 20, 2023
By the Light of the Silvery Moon by Tricia Goyer

Topic or themes I saw: Belonging, steadfast love, people’s approval/opinions, caring for people regardless of opinions, failure, running away from love to receiving it.

Read it if you love:

✔️Historical fiction
✔️The Titanic
✔️Bible story retellings
✔️Strong themes

Story: Wow, this novel really transferred me to the Titanic. As a child I was fascinated by the Titanic, which only aided in how much more I absolutely loved this novel. This prodigal son retelling is deeply moving. A beautiful story of God’s kindness amidst our pain and brokenness. Of His forgiveness and restoration. I absolutely loved that this book showed the richness of love and grace and how the characteristics the Bible portrays—like the fruits of the spirit—have so much power to fill up our hearts where wealth and status are fleeting and isn’t what fills us up. This story really showcased that and I really appreciated it. Wealth isn’t bad, but if that’s where you are looking for your fulfillment you won’t find it. Love, joy, peace, self control, etc…now that’s where true contentment and healing lie. Amelia was a gem, I absolutely loved her character. And the way Goyer wrapped up Damien’s story was perfection ❤️.

Main takeaway: We don’t need to run from God’s love.

“He sees the worth in people when most just focus on their worth—as in money.”

“You saw me at my worst, and you looked upon me with compassion.”

“I have nothing to offer yet everything to gain.”
Profile Image for Cindy Davis- Cindy's Book Corner.
1,524 reviews91 followers
September 17, 2025
This one had a slow start, and I wasn't invested, even halfway in. This is instant attraction, even though the MFC has an understanding with a guy she has been corresponding with. I was disappointed in the book, but don't take my word for it, a lot of people love it.
Content notes: a drowning occurs in the prologue, and obviously, with it being set on the Titanic, people die
Profile Image for Michaela Priddy.
297 reviews29 followers
August 10, 2025
Actual Rating: 3.5 stars
An inspirational, hopeful, Christian romance that is predictable but still satisfying. And also full of irony, for obvious reasons.
Profile Image for Sarah.
Author 1 book10 followers
April 30, 2013
This was my first time reading anything of Tricia Goyer, and I must admit that I was rather disappointed. The story started out rather well and had me intrigued. However, by the time I was in the 3rd chapter, my high hopes for it were beginning to sink.
The time period is set during the Titanic as Amelia and her aunt prepare to dock the 'unsinkable ship' on her maiden voyage to America. Throw in a mysterious stranger who gains the compassion of Amelia, a rich man who seems to have lost more than he can bear, and a son who cares more about what society thinks of him than he will admit.
I had several times throughout the book that I wanted to quit reading. However, I decided that I would continue reading to give it a fair chance. Goyer's writing style was easy to read and fairly enjoyable, but when it came to conversations and relationships, she really tanked. Her character development was also hard to follow. The one character that was half good was Amelia, although even she seemed to have a watery development that was hard to understand.
'By the Light of the Silvery Moon' was a romance, and I knew that when I picked it up, but I hoped that perhaps it would still be an enjoyable read. I dislike romance that isn't realistic. Propriety and modesty were all but lost in this book. The gentlemen were too forward for the time-period (although I am not saying that ungentlemanly men didn't exist, the men in this book were gentlemen and should have conducted themselves as such), and young Amelia didn't seem to mind a bit.
Amelia is setting out for America to meet a gentleman whom she has been in correspondence with. He paid for her ticket as he felt that he would like to get to know her better to possibly see if they had any future together. Thus sets the basic story line. However, Amelia seems all too anxious to leave this faithful fellow for the next handsome fella that comes along. Although she seems to have high standards and good faith in the Lord, she also seems to let those slide throughout the book. Goyer added a few plot twists that really didn't make sense in the book- such as Amelia trying to find out as much as she can about her lost mother. Although that might have added some interest to the story, it wasn't done well enough to actually pull through.
We all know how the Titanic met its end. Having researched lots on the Titanic, I was slightly disappointed with the historical details in the book. However, I didn't mind as much as it wasn't a very large part of the story. What did surprise and disappoint me, though, was the ending of the book. It felt very rushed and halted, jerking the reader around in a way that was rather dizzying.
All in all, I wasn't very satisfied with the book. I am still deciding as to whether or not I want to give Goyer another chance and read another of her stories.
Profile Image for Rambling Readers.
149 reviews
February 28, 2012
When the Titanic set sail 100 years ago no one knew that the grand ship's legacy would turn tragic. The story has been repeated so often over the years that most of us know the facts by heart. By the Light of the Silvery Moon by Tricia Goyer is the second fictionalized account of the Titanic that I have read in the last month. I loved Goyer's descriptions of the ship from the finest rooms of first class to the staff quarters. Amelia's association with characters of three different stations - the first class Damian Walpole, the second class Quentin Walpole, and a stewardess - take her to all levels of the ship during her four day voyage. Most of the plot is set in the first and second classes, and I could picture the grandeur and stateliness of what was an unparalleled vessel. The cameo appearances of real-life passengers, John Jacob Astor and Margaret Brown added an extra layer of authenticity to the story.

The Titanic sinks near the end of the novel; and while I enjoyed the plot, characters, and historical details, there was the element of predictability. I initially expected the story to focus partially on the Titanic voyage and partially on life after the tragedy. I felt a sense of foreboding knowing the inevitable event that was going to occur and wondering what the outcome would be for the characters that were introduced. The back stories of Amelia and Quentin provided more depth and interest to the story. Amelia finds herself in somewhat of a love triangle between her potential suitor in America, Quentin, and his brother Damian. The question that lingers is who will capture her heart and who will survive the ship's sinking? The answer is bittersweet with heartwarming tones of love and sacrifice.

Tricia Goyer pays homage to the Titanic in By the Light of the Silvery Moon and preserves a bit of its history. There are so many real stories of Titanic passengers that we will never know, and reading a well-written and researched fictionalized account gives us insight into an event that should not be forgotten.

I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from NetGalley, courtesy of Barbour Publishing. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Profile Image for Valerie (Val's Vicinity).
207 reviews11 followers
May 17, 2012
Amelia is a likeable character and is easy to cheer for; when she and her aunt board the Titanic in search of a fresh start in America it's easy to hope things turn out well for them. The story immediately starts out interesting when Amelia's soft heart causes her to spontaneously give a spare ticket for passage on the Titanic to a homeless man, Quentin. He is estranged from his brother and millionaire father, who coincidentally are also on board the Titanic. This situation of course causes a bit of drama, but it keeps things interesting! I enjoyed watching Amelia and Quentin get to know one another over the course of their voyage.

With almost the entire book taking place on board the Titanic the number of places and settings the characters can visit is rather limited, however it was handled very well. Amelia is a second class passenger, yet we also get some looks into first class and a couple glimpses into third class as well. The general feeling of awe over the design of the ship is continually felt, from first class down to third, and even in the actions and comments of the stewards and maids.

Unfortunately, the looming tragedy didn't allow the story to be completely enjoyable for me. It's definitely well written and well researched, but the entire time I had the question "when is it going to happen?" lingering in the back of my mind. I did enjoy the stories of Amelia and her acquaintances, but at the same time I felt sad knowing the fate that awaited them. They all felt completely safe on the "unsinkable" Titanic; crew members and passengers alike often praised the opulence and design of the ship. I imagine these types of comments actually were very common... yet I couldn't help but feel sad every time someone expressed their trust in the doomed vessel.

From what I know of the Titanic, everything seemed very realistic and I actually learned some things, too. It's hard to imagine living through such an event, but with the aid of fictional characters this book does give a glimpse of what it must have been like. It's hard to use words conveying enjoyment of a book that covers such an event, but if you have any interest in Titanic, I definitely would recommend this book. It's not particularly graphic, but I think it gives a good picture of the events as seen through the eyes of Amelia and her friends.

Thanks to the publisher (Barbour Books) for providing me with an e-galley via NetGalley for review.
Profile Image for Kathleen (Kat) Smith.
1,613 reviews93 followers
March 19, 2012
On the approaching 100th anniversary of the Titanic, Tricia Goyer has once again written an outstanding historical romantic novel, By The Light of The Silvery Moon. I must say I was personally challenged to read a romantic fictional novel based on travels on the fated Titanic without thinking about James Cameron's theatrical version, but I can honestly say I was enchanted and captivated by her words.

Meet Amelia Gladstone who is traveling aboard the Titanic in search of a future relationship with a man known only to her through his written correspondence as Mr. Chapman. He believes that because they have related so well through their letters, a face to face meeting might prove to be advantageous to them both. As they are about to board, Amelia comes face to face with a man known only as Quentin, dressed in rags and about to be tossed off the ship for attempting to be a stowaway.

When Amelia's cousin, Henry Gladstone was arrested in London last minute, she was left with his ticket. Being one with a heart of gold, she offers the ticket to Quentin as a gift he doesn't have to repay. Now that he has a legitimate reason to board the ship, he stays in Henry's room wondering just what God has in mind with this last chance offer.

Quentin believes his good fortune is divinely inspired when he begins to learn more about Amelia's pure heart despite the fact that he has made too many mistakes in his past. Those mistakes have cost him everything from his family to his financial standing when he kept running instead of facing the consequences of his actions. What will happen aboard the Titanic will change the lives of Amelia and Quentin forever and show that God does have plans for all of us, and nothing passes through His hands without His knowledge.

I received By The Light of The Silvery Moon compliments of Litfuse Publicity for my honest review and have to rate this one a perfect 5 out of 5 stars. I've been a huge fan of not only anything Tricia Goyer has written but also of the Titanic as well. So when I had to opportunity to review this one, I knew I would immediately love it. This one plays out as a great historical romance that Tricia did an exceptional job breathing life into, and also portrays a different version of the prodigal son from the Bible. This one I highly recommend and it will captivate you from the very first page. I could not put this one down.
Profile Image for Katy.
39 reviews1 follower
June 4, 2012
To be fair, I'm not a huge fan of Christian lit. I rarely read it, if just because I dislike being preached at for 300 pages. I knew this book was Christian lit when I picked it up, but I've been on a massive Titanic kick lately and thought it looked interesting. The sample chapter also looked pretty good, a beautiful cover, and the reviews were stellar. The Christianity wasn't my problem with this book. There were preach-y parts, but they weren't overwhelming by any means, and I felt that, for the most part, I could skip right over them if I found them objectionable.

No, my biggest problems with this book concerning its one-dimensional, almost unbelievably simplistic characters; the boring, stilted writing; the bad dialogue; and the fact that despite being set on the Titanic in 1912, there was very little sense of time or place.

I never got any sense of the characters, that they changed in any perceptible way. Again, to be fair, I skimmed large chunks of the last 100 pages or so because it just didn't hold my interest. But what I did see of the characters was less than impressive. Amelia never rang true to me - she was almost what a fan fiction writer would call a "Mary Sue" - no faults at all. The author tries to manufacture faults for the leading man, Quentin, but he's so nobly self-sacrificing, it's difficult to believe he once led a totally dissolute life. Some characters pop up and then nothing is ever done with them that I saw - Dorothea, for example. Nobody really grew as a result of their experiences. I could not care about them at all.

The writing was bland, as well. The dialogue was stilted and expository and never really rang true - something seemed off, as if you couldn't quite imagine real human beings saying what Ms. Goyer had her characters say.

I'll also echo someone else here, and say you never really got the sense that the characters were aboard the Titanic, or even really that they were living in the beginning of the last century. There was no sense of time and place at all. Extremely disappointing, since I was reading it for the Titanic in the first place. There also seemed to be a disappointing number of historical inaccuracies as well.

Not at all recommended.
Profile Image for Michelle.
Author 45 books419 followers
April 20, 2012
I rarely buy books, but saw this in a Barnes and Noble while on vacation two days after the 100th anniversary of the Titanic's sinking, so I picked it up. I read the prologue and was immediately drawn in by the tragic opening and decided I must read the rest of the book. I have a fascination with the Titanic's sinking and that whole tragedy anyway, so I couldn't resist the urge and ended up buying it. I'm so glad I did. I read the book in two days and enjoyed it very much.

There were so many things to like about this story. The author did a great job with setting and making me feel like I was there on the ship. Amelia was compassionate and a very likable heroine. The brothers were both endearing in their own ways. I felt pity for the father and his pain from not knowing the well-being of his youngest son. I loved how the author had written a parallel story similar to the prodigal son from the New Testament. Some of the dialog was even the same. That part of this book was particularly moving and brought tears to my eyes. Which one of us hasn't felt worthy of someone's love and forgiveness at some point in our pasts? The emotion of the characters as they dealt with repentance and forgiveness was very touching as was the way Amelia ministered to Quinton's spiritual needs.

The thing that intrigued me most about this story was not knowing which brother was going to come out as the survivor in the end. Not only that, but I was anxious about who was going to live and who was going to die other than the well-known passengers like John Jacob Astor. The description of the passengers' trauma following the sinking was well done. I can't imagine the survivor's guilt many of them must have felt. Each brother had special traits that the heroine loved, but she had to choose who would hold her heart in the end. At times I even fluctuated on who I thought that should be. This was a heartwarming story with a very satisfying ending. The romantic elements tugged on my heart strings as well. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Laura.
Author 39 books654 followers
February 24, 2013
Title: BY THE LIGHT OF THE SILVERY MOON
Author: Tricia Goyer
Publisher: Barbour Books
March 2012
ISBN: 978-1616265519
Genre: Historical romance

Amelia is heading to America to meet a man she’s been writing, a man who paid her and an aunt’s passage on the Titanic, so they could meet in person and investigate the possibility of a union. A cousin is also supposed to accompany the women, but he was thrown in jail the night before passage. When Amelia sees a stowaway being thrown off the ship, she runs after him and gives him her cousin’s ticket so he can have a fresh start.

Quentin Walpole is an American by birth, but an unfortunate event in his childhood spells the route for ruin. While his father and older brother thrived, Quentin lived as a homeless man. Desperate for a new beginning, Quentin boards the ship, but is surprised to discover his father and brother are also on board.

When Amelia discovers the truth of Quentin’s identity she works to reunite him with his family. But as Amelia works to reconcile father and son, she finds herself the object of both brothers’ affection. Can she choose between two brothers or the suitor waiting on land? Or will she lose everything to the icy waters of the Atlantic?

BY THE LIGHT OF THE SILVERY MOON is a book I long awaited reading since I read the press release on it, probably around this same time last year. It is centered around the famed maiden voyage of the Titanic, so you know there will be lots of drama.

I love Ms. Goyer’s historical books, and this one is no different. Ms. Goyer is a top must read historical author for me. Her research is detailed and the characters transcend time and come to life on the pages of the book. My heart broke for Quentin from the prologue, and I wondered what would become of that poor child, but thankfully I didn’t have long to wonder.

If you like historical fiction you won’t want to miss BY THE LIGHT OF THE SILVERY MOON. The lyrics of the original song are included at the end of the book in their entirety. Recommended. $12.99. 320 pages.
Profile Image for Tammi.
155 reviews3 followers
July 7, 2012
By the Light of the Silvery Moon by Tricia Goyer was a book I looked forward to reading and I wasn’t disappointed.

As we approach the 100th anniversary of the Titanic’s sinking on April 10th, I wonder what that time was like. What were the hopes and dreams of the passengers and the crew. Many of those stories are gone forever. Tricia Goyer, wrote a story of what might have been.

Although I enjoyed the story I was conflicted with wanting to put the book down and not read further and continuing reading to the end of the story. The reason? I was caring for the characters more and more and knowing what happened to the real Titanic I didn’t want to know who didn’t survive, but I did continue to the end, because I really wanted to know what would happen.

There is a strong Prodigal son theme, as well as, God’s plan of redemption within the pages of this book. Quentin Walpole is the Prodigal. His mother drowned saving him from drowning when he was 5 years old. He had been running and hiding ever since. When he became an adult, he asked his father for his inheritance and moved to London to begin a business of his own, his business did well for a time, but when competition moved in, he lost it all: his business, money, home, friends, and he lived homeless for two years.

Amelia Gladstone has a giving heart and serves God by serving others. While she and her Aunt Neda are preparing to board the Titanic, Amelia sees some of the stewards roughly taking a man off the ship. She has an extra ticket that was for her cousin, who wasn’t able to travel, so Amelia gave the ticket to Quentin.

Clarence and Damien Walpole-- Quentin’s father, and brother, are also on the ship. Clarence prays daily for his son and hopes that someday he will return home. Damien wishes his brother will never return.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.

** By the Light of the Silvery Moon by Tricia Goyer was provided for me free by Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for IrenesBookReviews.
1,039 reviews28 followers
March 3, 2012
By The Light Of The Silvery Moon, written by Tricia Goyer, is a story set on the majestic ship, the Titanic.

Amelia Gladstone is ready for a quiet trip across the ocean on a newly built ocean liner. She is expecting to land in America and meet a young man she has been exchanging letters with for months. When she finds herself with an extra ticket she gives it to a man she helps on the loading docs. This chance encounter changes her life and the life of many others.

Quentin Walpole has spent the last few years leading a very hard life and is looking for a new start. He accepts the free ticket in hopes that he can start over back in his home country, America. The voyage across the ocean is not as calm as he had hoped but the results are forgiveness and a new love.

The story takes place on the fated ocean liner the Titanic. The majority of the story takes place before the horrible crash into the iceberg. The plot is well written and moves along quickly. The message of forgiveness is found throughout the story and is an intricate part of it. I like how the characters developed and their personalities were believable. The descriptions of the different locations on the Titanic were given in great detail. The moments during and after the hitting of the iceberg were written so well you would think it was a first hand account.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I liked the interaction of the main characters. I liked the romance and how it developed. I especially liked how all the story lines were wrapped up in the end. I can not say a negative thing about this book. If I could give it more then 5/5 stars I would! Read it and I know you will enjoy it too!

I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest review based on my opinion of what I read.
Profile Image for Lynne Young.
185 reviews13 followers
March 25, 2012
I have read many of Tricia Goyer's books and this one is just as good as the rest. Ms. Goyer has taken a tragic event in history and given it some of the pomp and circumstance it deserves.

Amelia Gladstone is travelling aboard the Titanic with her Aunt to meet a man in New York she hopes will become more than a friend. She has been corresponding with Mr. Chapman for a while now and when he offers to pay for her passage, as well as that of her Aunt and her cousin she is hoping this will lead to something more permanent. While her cousin Elizabeth assures her Mr. Chapman is a good man, Amelia is not so sure. When she makes a fateful decision right before Titanic sails, she finds out just how confusing matters of the heart can be.

Quentin Walpole is down and out, has been for many years. He feels that is his lot in life. That is until a beautiful stranger offers him passage on Titanic. Not wanting to share the demons that haunt him, he accepts her offer only to find the demons he is trying so hard to run away from are right there on the ship with him. Forced to deal with feelings for Amelia he doesn't think he deserves, and forced to deal with demons from the past, will Quentin be willing to stay put and give his heart or will the demons force him to run from his past once again?

Ms. Goyer does a fine job of weaving a complicated love story surrounded by a tragedy. She shares with us the opulence and grandeur that was the Titanic as well as the fear and disbelief of not knowing if surviving Titanic's maiden voyage is possible. I really enjoyed this book. It examines feelings, both good and bad, forgiveness, redemption, love, and loss. I highly recommend this book!
Profile Image for Christian Fiction Addiction.
689 reviews333 followers
March 30, 2012

Be prepared to be swept up in an action-packed drama while reading By the Light of the Silvery Moon. Tricia Goyer has written a book that borrows from the elements of Jesus' parable of the prodigal son, throws in a love story that will have women the world over swooning in delight, and perfectly captures the heart-breaking story of the Titanic with a new spin! The characters are unique and their stories are ones that will pull on your heart-strings. I especially felt heart-ache for the character of Quentin, who had suffered at such a young age and then made foolish decisions out of his heartache, decisions that almost cost him everything he held dear. Amelia Gladstone is an equally likeable character for her heart of mercy and her refusal to judge a person by their outer shell. We definitely need more Amelias in this world! The details surrounding the history of the Titanic are perfectly interwoven into the plot, from the excitement and wonder that surrounded the Titanic's maiden voyage, to the orchestra bravely and tragically continuing to play while the ship was sinking around them! I found the book difficult to put down, as Goyer skillfully entertains with a story that lives up to her excellent reputation as an author.

I highly recommend this story for readers who enjoy historical fiction and who are are wanting to be held captive by a love story that has a satisfying conclusion. I award this novel 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher and Litfuse Publicity Group, for the purposes of this unbiased review.


http://christianfictionaddiction.blog...

Profile Image for Cheeyee.
132 reviews
November 20, 2011
Review At: I Read, I Think, I Share

Review Date: 20 Nov 2011

Review URL: http://littlemermybooks.blogspot.com/2011/11/by-light-of-silvery-moon-by-tricia.html

Summary:

It's a novel about Titanic 100 years after its doomed voyage. It's a story about Quentin and Amelia.

Amelia was a very kind lady and liked to help those in need. Her kindness brought Quentin to the ship and a chance for her to get to know him better. Quentin knew he should run away, but he could not help being attracted to Amelia. At the same time, Quentin's brother Damien also had set his heart on Amelia.

I like Amelia this character a lot. I like the way she treated Quentin, how she managed to open his heart to face his past. I also like the way she saw in people - not by judging their look and appearance, but by their heart. Even though Quentin had nothing to offer her, but a kind heart was all she wants. It's a very touching story. I was hooked to it right from the beginning. The author just has her way of making me want to keep turning the pages to find out who Amelia would give her heart to. I love the ending. It's a perfect ending.

I enjoy reading this book very much. I rate it 4 out of 5 stars.


Note: I receive the digital ARC of this book from the publisher via Net Gallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Linda.
452 reviews29 followers
March 26, 2012
I have always given a wide berth (no pun intended!) to anything related to the Titanic. But I couldn't turn down the chance to review a Tricia Goyer book, so I read it with a bit of trepidation. I could not put it down. As always, Tricia impeccably blends fact and fiction into a beautiful multi-faceted story. The disparity and tension between societal levels is masterfully portrayed, and the effect weighs even more when the distinctions cross family lines. I can only imagine the challenge of writing a novel where the setting is a foregone and well-known conclusion yet crafting a story that isn't completely predictable, but Tricia Goyer kept me guessing right to the end exactly who would be on the lifeboats and survive the horrific tragedy. In fact, the ending remained complete surprise -- and one that made me catch my breath -- even as it was still unfolding. With portions of the novel beautifully based on the parable of the Prodigal Son from the New Testament, By the Light of the Silvery Moon contains love, forgiveness, faith, and new beginnings. I highly recommend this book as a great way to commemorate the centennial of this fateful voyage.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Barbour and Litfuse Publicity as part of their Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
Profile Image for Britni.
179 reviews32 followers
April 10, 2012
By the Light of the Silvery Moon is the first book I've ever read that is set on the Titanic. I was a die-hard Leo fan when the movie first came out and I always stop and watch it for a few minutes when it comes on TV. So when I heard about Tricia Goyer's newest book, I jumped at the chance to read it.

Amelia Gladstone has always taken care of other people so when she sees a beggar being dragged from the Titanic as she is boarding she has to go check to make sure he's okay. Lucky for both of them, Amelia's cousin Henry ended up in jail the night before and is not going to be using his ticket. So begins the journey of Amelia, Quentin, and some other unforgettable characters aboard the unsinkable Titanic.

I wanted to love this book and I got close at moments, but for me the story could have been set anywhere and it just happened to be on the Titanic since the sinking of the Titanic actually played a very minor role in the story. I really liked Amelia and appreciated her charity toward everyone around her. I also loved the dynamic relationship between Amelia and Quentin as they waded into the depths of their feelings about each other. And finally, I loved how all of the main characters allowed God to guide their lives, decisions, and feelings especially with the reader's knowledge that the ship was going down.

I won't get into any more details of the plot so I don't give anything away, but I enjoyed the book and would recommend it to anyone looking for a good read, especially for those of you who like historical fiction. 3.5 stars.
Profile Image for Melanie.
921 reviews40 followers
June 27, 2012
This April marked a 100th Anniversary of that great tragedy known as sinking of the unsinkable Titanic. Ms. Goyer’s offer of a fictional story within this historic tragedy will touch your heart as much as James Cameron’s movie did.

Amelia is one of the sweetest heroines I’ve read about and I really, really liked her. How could I not when she wore her compassion on her sleeve? She is a woman who is always driven to do the right thing and lend a helping hand to anyone that needs it, and our hero really needed it.

Quentin Walpole is one lucky man to have met our heroine as he’s being ‘escorted’ off ship and to his utter surprise, offered a ticket on the ship by a stranger who will change his destiny forever.

As their journey begins, so does ours and while we know what awaits so many of the Titanic passengers, we hope and pray that our couple would be among those that survive this disaster.

This novel was very well written with a plot that will keep you glued to your device of choice (Kindle in my case) and its fast pace will definitely make this read unexpectedly short. You’ll no doubt recognize the parable of the prodigal son and if you’ll like me, it will make your feelings torn between the ‘good son’ and the ‘prodigal’. In the end, Ms. Goyer’s characterization and wonderful setting, pace and inspirational messages woven through this story of love, passion, loss and redemption will touch your heart and mind.

Mel

* I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Faith.
2,206 reviews
April 6, 2012
Love set against the backdrop of the Titanic.

Having read very few books by Ms.Goyer, I didn't know quite what to expect with By the Light of the Silvery Moon, so I took a chance, and boy, am I glad I did! This book is something of a Prodigal Son type story, with very strong themes running along those lines.

I loved how Ms. Goyer really captured the atmosphere and feel of the Titanic. Distinguishing those in First Class, from those in Second and Third Class, with a strong use of body language. I could feel the atmosphere changes that occurred when we went from class to class from the chill of First Class, to the warmth, hope, and a few unsavory characters in Third.

I really didn't have a favorite character in this book, every single one was so well balanced, and none of them really outshone the others, they were all amazing. And I really liked how the relationships between the many characters felt very natural, and unforced.

Overall, I would highly recommend this book. It is a well written tale set against one of the most startling events of the 20th century, filled with forgiveness and hope. And let's not forget the romance! A fantastic book that grabbed me at the very first chapter and didn't let go until I'd turned the last page down.

Final Rating: 4.8 out of 5


I received this book from the publisher, through Litfuse Publicity in return for an honest review. Thanks!
Profile Image for Laura.
Author 2 books51 followers
May 13, 2012
When Amelia Gladstone takes pity on a beaten man and gives him a ticket on the Titanic, she has no clue that he is Quentin Walpole, the prodigal son of a railroad tycoon, who happens to be on the ship with his other son. Determined to bring father and son together, Amelia finds herself the love interest of both brothers. Will Amelia find love aboard the doomed ship?


I began reading this book expecting a love story set on the Titanic, but I was surprised with much more. I've only read one other book by Goyer (Praying for your Future Husband), and I loved this book almost as much. While I love romance novels, I especially enjoyed the prodigal son storyline and Titanic setting. Knowing the ship's fate gave an urgency to the book....would Quentin reconcile with his father, would they survive, and if they did survive, would they be separated during the rescue?


My only complaint was that there wasn't a complete resolution with Amelia's longing to know more about her mom. I wish she could have found out what happened to her, but I guess since the entire book happens in one week, that may be asking for too much.


Fans of Christian fiction and historical fiction won't want to miss this engaging tale of love at sea.

I was given this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Amy.
228 reviews10 followers
January 8, 2012
As the one hundredth anniversary of Titanic's demise draws near, works of fiction are popping up, and this one is the first I've read. Although we know the tragic end of this story, Goyer weaves a tale of redemption for us to enjoy. The love found on Titanic is not just romantic love, but brotherly as well. It is endearing, historical, and exciting all wrapped up in one. I particularly treasured the spin- taking the parable of the prodigal son and mixing it with themes from the movie, Titanic, from fifteen years ago. It was delightful to see the parallels! From the crossing over in classes, jewelry in a pocket, to a father who throws a banquet for his lost son- it was all sweetly done, with an emotional depth that I did, indeed, experience. If you want a faith honoring Titanic story, this is the book to choose!
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