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Free
17-year-old Ruth is used to being independent and trusting God to provide for her needs, even with the little protection life in the 17th century provides her. But when a strange turn of events lands her on a cargo ship with no immediate way off, what is Ruth to do? The sailors are rough and rowdy, but Ruth finds First Mate Leonard particularly intimidating. What is hiding behind Captain Edward’s passive nature? Will she ever be free?
As the sailors face the trials of ocean travels, they realize their young servant holds a key to peace and happiness that they don’t have. A truth that could change their lives forever. But does Ruth have her heart open for the ways in which God wants to change hers?
A heartwarming tale about faith, forgiveness, and rediscovering what freedom really means.
Genre: Christian YA historical fiction
As the sailors face the trials of ocean travels, they realize their young servant holds a key to peace and happiness that they don’t have. A truth that could change their lives forever. But does Ruth have her heart open for the ways in which God wants to change hers?
A heartwarming tale about faith, forgiveness, and rediscovering what freedom really means.
Genre: Christian YA historical fiction
- GenresChristian
212 pages, Paperback
Published March 11, 2021
28 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
January 11, 2021
I'm so excited to have my book available on Goodreads! Don't forget to add it to your "Want to Read" list! I can't wait till the book comes out so you all can read it.
July 14, 2021
Free is an endearing story about a Christian girl who gets stranded on a cargo ship and does her best to show God's love, despite her sub par circumstances.
I think this is a great Middle Grade book! It has easy to understand themes and language and while there were some instances that COULD'VE been written for an older audience (i.e. more detail on the cargo crew's life style or some deeper personality issues, or internal struggles) Free was remarkably clean and gentle and would be excellent for Christian parents who might be looking for a light hearted, happy ending book for their young ones.
There were quite a few grammatical mistakes including missing letters and incorrect uses of elipses. And I also found a lot of simple contradictions that might not get on some people's nerves but did on mine because I'm so picky.
While the religion and the MCs actions seemed sometimes forced or unrealistic, I think for a very young audience it works well, not so much as a book or character to relate to, but one to look UP to as a role model.
I think Christian children would enjoy this book a lot and I would recomend it to families looking for clean, inspiring reads for their young ones.
I think this is a great Middle Grade book! It has easy to understand themes and language and while there were some instances that COULD'VE been written for an older audience (i.e. more detail on the cargo crew's life style or some deeper personality issues, or internal struggles) Free was remarkably clean and gentle and would be excellent for Christian parents who might be looking for a light hearted, happy ending book for their young ones.
There were quite a few grammatical mistakes including missing letters and incorrect uses of elipses. And I also found a lot of simple contradictions that might not get on some people's nerves but did on mine because I'm so picky.
While the religion and the MCs actions seemed sometimes forced or unrealistic, I think for a very young audience it works well, not so much as a book or character to relate to, but one to look UP to as a role model.
I think Christian children would enjoy this book a lot and I would recomend it to families looking for clean, inspiring reads for their young ones.
April 15, 2021
I appreciate a story that has a ton of faith elements in it as this one does. The author's passion for those without Christ is exhibited in Ruth's story. Wouldn't it be wonderful if we all could be the kind of witness and testimony that the main character is?
When I read historical fiction, I look forward to being immersed in an era. That didn't quite happen for me during this story, I think partly because of slipping into contemporary speech that threw me out of the time period. Though all the ship terminology was well placed, I still didn't get a sense of what the ship looked like or even much of what the characters looked like. I hope that for the next book the author will engage all my senses a little more so I can feel like I'm there.
I think that a younger audience would really enjoy Ruth's adventures. And she is a great example to every age Christian. Her sunny attitude, selflessness, and burden for the lost people around her and her willingness to win them at any cost are the best kind of stories to share with our young people. As this young author continues to grow in her craft, I have no doubt that she will continue to create stories that point others to Jesus.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book and agreed to leave an honest review.
When I read historical fiction, I look forward to being immersed in an era. That didn't quite happen for me during this story, I think partly because of slipping into contemporary speech that threw me out of the time period. Though all the ship terminology was well placed, I still didn't get a sense of what the ship looked like or even much of what the characters looked like. I hope that for the next book the author will engage all my senses a little more so I can feel like I'm there.
I think that a younger audience would really enjoy Ruth's adventures. And she is a great example to every age Christian. Her sunny attitude, selflessness, and burden for the lost people around her and her willingness to win them at any cost are the best kind of stories to share with our young people. As this young author continues to grow in her craft, I have no doubt that she will continue to create stories that point others to Jesus.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book and agreed to leave an honest review.
March 9, 2021
I was looking forward to reading this story because I thought the premise sounded interesting and I have been slowly getting into Christian historical fiction. I have to say that the research done for this novel was incredible and I applaud the author's efforts to help the reader experience what it's like to live on a ship.
Ruth was a sweet and courageous girl. She was strong in so many ways and it was nice to follow her journey throughout the story. I also liked the character of Captain Edward and the father-daughter relationship they shared.
I did find however that many parts of the book came across as preachy and that made me disconnect from the story. I also would have liked for there to be a bit more backstory for some of the important characters like Ruth, Captain Edward, Leonard etc. I would have loved to know more about how Ruth's past experiences helped shape her character and the robust faith she had in God. I think these backstories would have helped me connect deeper with the characters a bit more. I also wasn't a massive fan of the writing style however there is always room for improvement as this is the author's first book.
Looking forward to watching this author grow and get better.
I received a free e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest review :)
March 11, 2021
Very few books allow you to encounter freedom, and Free is certainly one of them.
As the book opens, readers are introduced to a young woman named Ruth, who is forced into service on a merchant ship. Fearful and confused, she still manages to bring a pure heart and joyful spirit to every trial and adventure she faces on the high seas.
Still, despite her abundance of both kindness and patience, the men remain resistant, confused by her unwavering faith and uncommon humility towards those who have treated her so unfairly.
But freedom can come to the hardest of hearts, and hope remains that, one day, Ruth will find herself in the company of those who know they are wholeheartedly free.
Careena Campbell has penned an exceptional tale, full of adventure, high stakes on storm-tossed waves, and, above all, the longing for freedom and a place to belong.
With characters rich in faith, internal struggles, perseverance, and humility, Careena has crafted a book perfectly suited to lovers of YA historical fiction, and, at the same time, produced that rare thing: a story that leaves readers with hearts wide open to the miraculous and full of faith that they, too, can be free.
As the book opens, readers are introduced to a young woman named Ruth, who is forced into service on a merchant ship. Fearful and confused, she still manages to bring a pure heart and joyful spirit to every trial and adventure she faces on the high seas.
Still, despite her abundance of both kindness and patience, the men remain resistant, confused by her unwavering faith and uncommon humility towards those who have treated her so unfairly.
But freedom can come to the hardest of hearts, and hope remains that, one day, Ruth will find herself in the company of those who know they are wholeheartedly free.
Careena Campbell has penned an exceptional tale, full of adventure, high stakes on storm-tossed waves, and, above all, the longing for freedom and a place to belong.
With characters rich in faith, internal struggles, perseverance, and humility, Careena has crafted a book perfectly suited to lovers of YA historical fiction, and, at the same time, produced that rare thing: a story that leaves readers with hearts wide open to the miraculous and full of faith that they, too, can be free.
February 23, 2021
Free was a sweet and fun story. It had a great message of faith, even though it seemed forced at times. Almost every single paragraph mentioned God, reading the Bible, singing hymns, being free in Him, or just something!
Ruth was a sweet girl, and I liked her and Captain Edward’s father-and-daughter-like relationship.
The writing was a little childish and amateur, but this is the author’s first book and I’m excited to see where this journey takes her! She did amazing at the research though. Everything was accurate and I loved the seafaring and sailing. The description of the ocean was beautiful!
/I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own./
Ruth was a sweet girl, and I liked her and Captain Edward’s father-and-daughter-like relationship.
The writing was a little childish and amateur, but this is the author’s first book and I’m excited to see where this journey takes her! She did amazing at the research though. Everything was accurate and I loved the seafaring and sailing. The description of the ocean was beautiful!
/I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own./
March 25, 2021
Free is a YA historical Christian fiction book about Ruth, who finds herself on a cargo ship with no immediate way off.
Positives
The book sets a good example. Careena wrote this book for young teens who are homeschooled, and they can definitely find a positive example in Ruth.
Free paints a picture of the ideal example of sharing the gospel in actions and words.
Free could teach children what it means to share the gospel.
Free contains many positive spiritual lessons.
1. Ruth finds peace in Jesus despite her situation. Philippians 4:6-9 - When we have Jesus in our hearts, He is our peace, and so external circumstances do not have to determine our internal state.
2. Nature (especially stars) helps Ruth remember God is with her. Psalm 19:1 - God is evident in nature, and so if we need to remember God is still real, we can just look around.
3. Ruth decides to obey God first and man second only if it agrees with God's law. Acts 5:29 and Romans 13:1-2
4. Ruth decides to serve the sailors to demonstrate true love (sacrifice and service) of Jesus. Romans 13:5, Ephesians 6:5-8, Collosians 3:23, and Galatians 6:9-10 - Ruth does take this as an opportunity to serve God rather than a time to be sad.
5. Ruth does take every opportunity she gets to tell the sailors the reason for the hope that is in her. 1 Peter 3:15 - She tells people what Jesus did (His death paid for our sin) and how to be saved - Romans 10:9.
6. A major theme in Free is what it means to be free. Freedom is not being independent of authority. Freedom is having a choice. Jesus gives the freedom to choose life instead of death and good instead of sin. Galatians 4:8-9 & 5:1.
Free has many positive spiritual messages about obedience to God, serving others, and what it means to be free. It would be a great example for children.
Negatives
The main negative is the book is just not realistic. The elements (characters, historical setting, action) could have been much more developed.
The story seemed too perfect. No major problems or resistance stopped Ruth from sharing the gospel.
Careena wrote this book for a specific audience (young adults and tweens who are homeschooled and enjoy historical Christian fiction and want a pure, uplifting example to follow). Careena was successful in doing what she chose to do.
Positives
The book sets a good example. Careena wrote this book for young teens who are homeschooled, and they can definitely find a positive example in Ruth.
Free paints a picture of the ideal example of sharing the gospel in actions and words.
Free could teach children what it means to share the gospel.
Free contains many positive spiritual lessons.
1. Ruth finds peace in Jesus despite her situation. Philippians 4:6-9 - When we have Jesus in our hearts, He is our peace, and so external circumstances do not have to determine our internal state.
2. Nature (especially stars) helps Ruth remember God is with her. Psalm 19:1 - God is evident in nature, and so if we need to remember God is still real, we can just look around.
3. Ruth decides to obey God first and man second only if it agrees with God's law. Acts 5:29 and Romans 13:1-2
4. Ruth decides to serve the sailors to demonstrate true love (sacrifice and service) of Jesus. Romans 13:5, Ephesians 6:5-8, Collosians 3:23, and Galatians 6:9-10 - Ruth does take this as an opportunity to serve God rather than a time to be sad.
5. Ruth does take every opportunity she gets to tell the sailors the reason for the hope that is in her. 1 Peter 3:15 - She tells people what Jesus did (His death paid for our sin) and how to be saved - Romans 10:9.
6. A major theme in Free is what it means to be free. Freedom is not being independent of authority. Freedom is having a choice. Jesus gives the freedom to choose life instead of death and good instead of sin. Galatians 4:8-9 & 5:1.
Free has many positive spiritual messages about obedience to God, serving others, and what it means to be free. It would be a great example for children.
Negatives
The main negative is the book is just not realistic. The elements (characters, historical setting, action) could have been much more developed.
The story seemed too perfect. No major problems or resistance stopped Ruth from sharing the gospel.
Careena wrote this book for a specific audience (young adults and tweens who are homeschooled and enjoy historical Christian fiction and want a pure, uplifting example to follow). Careena was successful in doing what she chose to do.
February 27, 2021
Free was so much fun to read! It had such a positive message and left me feeling empowered. The characters felt like friends, and the setting and sailing aspect was well researched.
I would say it might seem a bit forced, but I didn’t mind it! Frankly I think we need more Christian books with an explicit Christian message. If that’s not your jam, this might not be for you.
I loved Free and Ruth’s adventures and can’t wait for the next book in the series!!!
-I received a free copy for an honest review-
I would say it might seem a bit forced, but I didn’t mind it! Frankly I think we need more Christian books with an explicit Christian message. If that’s not your jam, this might not be for you.
I loved Free and Ruth’s adventures and can’t wait for the next book in the series!!!
-I received a free copy for an honest review-
April 14, 2021
"Free" is a beautiful story of trusting in God during difficult situations! It was wholesome, clean, and overall very encouraging. I couldn't put it down!
Ruth, the protagonist, shows a great example throughout this book! Though she is confused, and doesn't understand why she is on this ship, she trusts God is going to help her and protect her. I will definitely be recommending this book to my younger cousins, for I know they will enjoy it and be able to remember Ruth's example as they run their race!
I also appreciate the historical accuracies in the small details. It's very clear that Campbell did her research.
Loved every word! Wish I could give it more than five stars!
Ruth, the protagonist, shows a great example throughout this book! Though she is confused, and doesn't understand why she is on this ship, she trusts God is going to help her and protect her. I will definitely be recommending this book to my younger cousins, for I know they will enjoy it and be able to remember Ruth's example as they run their race!
I also appreciate the historical accuracies in the small details. It's very clear that Campbell did her research.
Loved every word! Wish I could give it more than five stars!
July 20, 2021
Free is an engaging historical fiction young adult novel with a strong Christian message. The main character, Ruth, endures many hardships when she finds herself trapped on a cargo ship, but her strong faith gives her perseverance and a desire to serve the sailors as well as she can.
The book had an exciting plot, and I enjoyed learning about life on a cargo ship in the 1600’s. I thought the author was successful in giving the characters realistic challenges to overcome and showing how they overcame those challenges. The action in the story kept me interested throughout the book.
Ruth is an inspiring example of faith in the story because of her great trust in God, her cheerfulness during difficult times, and her desire to share her faith with the sailors. However, I would not recommend this book to young Catholics because there is a significant emphasis on the belief that faith alone can save you and because of a negative reference to Catholics in one of the last chapters.
The book had an exciting plot, and I enjoyed learning about life on a cargo ship in the 1600’s. I thought the author was successful in giving the characters realistic challenges to overcome and showing how they overcame those challenges. The action in the story kept me interested throughout the book.
Ruth is an inspiring example of faith in the story because of her great trust in God, her cheerfulness during difficult times, and her desire to share her faith with the sailors. However, I would not recommend this book to young Catholics because there is a significant emphasis on the belief that faith alone can save you and because of a negative reference to Catholics in one of the last chapters.
May 27, 2022
Lighthearted and Charming ' Free ' In the way of praise shows how the simple willingness of a Christian to spread the gospel can make all the difference.
In constructive criticism, I feel that following Ruth's rescue that in her place, I would've been ashamed and grateful; especially after what they saved her from and having knocked them further off course and endangered lives.
I also think it would've been interesting to have some insight into Ruth's memories of her family to really grasp everything she lost and better understand her character (This was already covered really, but it's just a suggestion)
I do really look forward for the next installment of this series! I would love to see if they minister as a crew or if some tragedy strikes and a separation occurs.
In constructive criticism, I feel that following Ruth's rescue that in her place, I would've been ashamed and grateful; especially after what they saved her from and having knocked them further off course and endangered lives.
I also think it would've been interesting to have some insight into Ruth's memories of her family to really grasp everything she lost and better understand her character (This was already covered really, but it's just a suggestion)
I do really look forward for the next installment of this series! I would love to see if they minister as a crew or if some tragedy strikes and a separation occurs.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2021
"Free hope on the high seas." Was a great book I loved the Salvation Arcs of the pirates, and Ruth's character every time I put the book down my spirits always seemed to be filled. I often found my self reflecting and praying after reading. Careena Campbell is a great author. Her writing is the perfect cozy read. I really feel like I just docked in the Harber I highly recommend this novel and her YouTube channel.
January 10, 2022
This was a really cute, precious, and sweet first indie Christian middle grade historical fiction novel.
Would definitely recommend to young homeschoolers. It reminds me a little bit of the Viking Quest books. The gospel is at the center of the story, and it is done in a very simple, sweet, yet powerful way, including a lot of scripture verses and old hymns.
Looking forward to reading more from this author!
Would definitely recommend to young homeschoolers. It reminds me a little bit of the Viking Quest books. The gospel is at the center of the story, and it is done in a very simple, sweet, yet powerful way, including a lot of scripture verses and old hymns.
Looking forward to reading more from this author!
January 10, 2023
This book is just beautiful.😍😍 It is very easy to understand and follow through the life of Ruth. The Christian aspect of the story is not just in the sideline but what holds the whole story together. I love how the book discusses things like sharing the gospel and living for Christ. I do wish we could have seen more of the past life of Ruth and probably see her struggle more before she chooses to reflect the life of Christ. Despite that, the book held my attention all the way to the end.
December 15, 2021
“Free” is an engaging tale and I really appreciated how the Author focused on the timeless lesson of being content where God has you and trusting in His plans.
There are several scripture references throughout and I feel this book would be especially good for middle school to high school age readers.
Looking forward to seeing more from this young Author in the future!
There are several scripture references throughout and I feel this book would be especially good for middle school to high school age readers.
Looking forward to seeing more from this young Author in the future!
May 16, 2021
Nice story Careena. The only thing is tyat
I would have liked you to expand more on her struggles, the boat and the island scene for example. I enjoyed the selfless act she does towards the end. That's my favorite!
I would have liked you to expand more on her struggles, the boat and the island scene for example. I enjoyed the selfless act she does towards the end. That's my favorite!
August 24, 2021
Free is a very light and sweet read. It's clear the author has a heart on fire for God, which is so encouraging!
I did wish for some more action and I would have loved more backstory to the characters, though maybe we'll get more of that in the sequel.
I did wish for some more action and I would have loved more backstory to the characters, though maybe we'll get more of that in the sequel.
June 21, 2023
I don't usually read books like this, but I enjoyed it! It was encouraging, and I liked Ruth's character. I enjoyed the setting on the ship, and how Ruth was able to be a light in the sailors lives.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews