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The Silence of God
From socialism to forced atheism, almost overnight -- Based on the inspiring true story of the only LDS family in 1917 revolutionary Russia.
The Silence of God follows Johan and Alma Lindlof and their eight children as they witness the glitz and glamour of Imperial Russia quickly dissolve into mass rebellion. The chaos ultimately divided their family and tested their faith, as some of the Lindlof children were sent to Siberian work camps.
As they face an uncertain future of danger and despair under the Bolshevik regime, life for the wealthy Lindlof family is changed forever by an idealogy that forces equality and demands the silence of God.
This well-researched novel by author Gale Sears – a powerful new voice in LDS historical fiction – offers a rare glimpse into a fascinating period of history, including the rise of socialism and the origins of the LDS Church in Russia.
As the only LDS family living in Russia at the time, the Lindlofs witnessed Elder Francis M. Lyman of the LDS Church’s Quorum of the Twelve Apostles dedicate the land for the preaching of the gospel on Aug. 6, 1903. His scribe was the only other person there. Now, on Aug. 29, 2010, the Kyiv Ukraine Temple will be dedicated, the first temple in a former Soviet bloc country – just a few miles from the very spot where LDS was first introduced in Russia.
The Silence of God follows Johan and Alma Lindlof and their eight children as they witness the glitz and glamour of Imperial Russia quickly dissolve into mass rebellion. The chaos ultimately divided their family and tested their faith, as some of the Lindlof children were sent to Siberian work camps.
As they face an uncertain future of danger and despair under the Bolshevik regime, life for the wealthy Lindlof family is changed forever by an idealogy that forces equality and demands the silence of God.
This well-researched novel by author Gale Sears – a powerful new voice in LDS historical fiction – offers a rare glimpse into a fascinating period of history, including the rise of socialism and the origins of the LDS Church in Russia.
As the only LDS family living in Russia at the time, the Lindlofs witnessed Elder Francis M. Lyman of the LDS Church’s Quorum of the Twelve Apostles dedicate the land for the preaching of the gospel on Aug. 6, 1903. His scribe was the only other person there. Now, on Aug. 29, 2010, the Kyiv Ukraine Temple will be dedicated, the first temple in a former Soviet bloc country – just a few miles from the very spot where LDS was first introduced in Russia.
400 pages, Hardcover
First published June 4, 2010
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1482 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 613 reviews
September 30, 2010
I really wanted to like this book; the story of the first LDS family to join the church in Russia. In fact, it’s the only book I brought here to Ukraine, other than my scriptures. I bought it the day before we boarded the plane last month to fly to our mission here at the newly-dedicated Ukraine Temple. Because I’m a missionary, I had no time to read it until I got laid off from the temple last week with the flu.
The story and characters were just plain flat. I got bored easily. And I felt somewhat deceived with the happy ending, knowing the true fate of this LDS family’s children who were actually sentenced to years in a Siberian work camp.
The historical background is what kept me coming back to the book. To the author’s credit, she helped bring the Russian revolution alive for me. She does an excellent job of contrasting communist ideology with the law of consecration, of contrasting the farce of communist rhetoric of “equality, peace, bread” with God’s way of loving and caring for your neighbor because your heart is changed. You clearly see the communist method of forcing people through brutality and fear contrasted with the change in behavior that comes when you love Christ and treat others as He would have you treat them.
The Silence of God refers to the communists’ efforts to remove God from their culture and replace Him with a utopic communist society, dependent on the government. Beautifully architected Russian churches were dismantled of their religious icons and turned into government buildings. One Russian woman I talked to here in Kiev told me when she was a student, her math teacher spent more time denouncing God and religion than teaching math.
The best part of the book for me was the final footnote on the final page; stating that the new Kiev Temple is built six miles from the place where, in 996 A.D., Prince Vladimir, who brought Christianity to Russia, erected his church. It reminded me that next P-Day, we need to take a trek to that great spot.
The story and characters were just plain flat. I got bored easily. And I felt somewhat deceived with the happy ending, knowing the true fate of this LDS family’s children who were actually sentenced to years in a Siberian work camp.
The historical background is what kept me coming back to the book. To the author’s credit, she helped bring the Russian revolution alive for me. She does an excellent job of contrasting communist ideology with the law of consecration, of contrasting the farce of communist rhetoric of “equality, peace, bread” with God’s way of loving and caring for your neighbor because your heart is changed. You clearly see the communist method of forcing people through brutality and fear contrasted with the change in behavior that comes when you love Christ and treat others as He would have you treat them.
The Silence of God refers to the communists’ efforts to remove God from their culture and replace Him with a utopic communist society, dependent on the government. Beautifully architected Russian churches were dismantled of their religious icons and turned into government buildings. One Russian woman I talked to here in Kiev told me when she was a student, her math teacher spent more time denouncing God and religion than teaching math.
The best part of the book for me was the final footnote on the final page; stating that the new Kiev Temple is built six miles from the place where, in 996 A.D., Prince Vladimir, who brought Christianity to Russia, erected his church. It reminded me that next P-Day, we need to take a trek to that great spot.
July 17, 2010
**I want to clarify up front that I won a copy from Good Reads' First Reads, so the edition I read was an uncorrected advance copy. As a result, things may change before it hits the shelves.**
I was excited to read this book because the subject matter fascinated me, but in the end I was fairly disappointed. The book is about the Lindlofs, Russia's actual first Mormon family, at the beginning of the 20th century. The start of the novel was clumsy, with the first two or three chapters merely background that didn't quite fit. However, once Sears got into the meat of the story, it was much more interesting. The narration is third person and bounces around to narrow in on several different characters throughout the book. I came into this novel with some understanding of the Church of Latter-Day Saints, though I am not a member myself. I also know a bit about the Russian revolution, which features prominently into the story. The author does a good job of weaving the political atmosphere into the storyline, and I greatly enjoyed that aspect. However, I was disappointed in the characterization of the Lindlof family. The reader is supposed to like them, but I found them implausibly perfect. They made almost no mistakes, and you are expected to pity them throughout as total victims. In the end, the only character I liked much was Natasha, their non-Mormon friend and neighbor. She was multifaceted and interesting, and I wish the book had been entirely about her. I was very, very disappointed by the over-simplistic ending as well. Sears also inserts endnotes following each chapter that explain what certain things are and what truly happened historically. While I found these interesting, I wish they had been at the end of the book, for they distracted me from the narrative. Overall, Sears is a decent storyteller, and her research was meticulous, but I didn't find this book believable or the characters honest.
I was excited to read this book because the subject matter fascinated me, but in the end I was fairly disappointed. The book is about the Lindlofs, Russia's actual first Mormon family, at the beginning of the 20th century. The start of the novel was clumsy, with the first two or three chapters merely background that didn't quite fit. However, once Sears got into the meat of the story, it was much more interesting. The narration is third person and bounces around to narrow in on several different characters throughout the book. I came into this novel with some understanding of the Church of Latter-Day Saints, though I am not a member myself. I also know a bit about the Russian revolution, which features prominently into the story. The author does a good job of weaving the political atmosphere into the storyline, and I greatly enjoyed that aspect. However, I was disappointed in the characterization of the Lindlof family. The reader is supposed to like them, but I found them implausibly perfect. They made almost no mistakes, and you are expected to pity them throughout as total victims. In the end, the only character I liked much was Natasha, their non-Mormon friend and neighbor. She was multifaceted and interesting, and I wish the book had been entirely about her. I was very, very disappointed by the over-simplistic ending as well. Sears also inserts endnotes following each chapter that explain what certain things are and what truly happened historically. While I found these interesting, I wish they had been at the end of the book, for they distracted me from the narrative. Overall, Sears is a decent storyteller, and her research was meticulous, but I didn't find this book believable or the characters honest.
June 29, 2010
I loved this book. Set at the time of the Russian Revolution in St. Petersburg, the Lindlof family, the very first Mormons in Russia are faced with a crisis: give up what they know to be true, or save their lives by following the dictates of wicked men trying to overthrow their country. It is based on a true story and mixes a fictional story in with real events. The author has meticulously researched and noted the historical facts. One of my new favorite books!!
August 26, 2022
I found this audiobook based on the 1917 Russian Revolution and the only known LDS family living in Russia at the time to be fascinating. I admit I didn't know much beforehand about Russian history and the revolution that brought socialism/communism to the country and I found it all very interesting. I especially liked how the author brought in comparisons between socialism and the law of consecration. Here's a favorite quote:
"Johan looked at her straight on. 'Neither Marx nor Lenin knows how man will change from a selfish lout to a caring, hardworking comrade. They just believe that somehow he will ... But you cannot change a man's nature or behavior by outside means, Natasha Ivanovna. There must be a change of a man's heart, and only God can do that.'"
The only thing I missed listening to the audiobook instead of reading the book were the footnotes with each chapter that gave more detail about what parts of the story were based on fact -- I wish I could have had this part too. The story of the LDS family and all that they endured was very touching and heartbreaking, but full of hope at the same time. (And I was sad to learn that the author changed the fate of some of the children.)
"Johan looked at her straight on. 'Neither Marx nor Lenin knows how man will change from a selfish lout to a caring, hardworking comrade. They just believe that somehow he will ... But you cannot change a man's nature or behavior by outside means, Natasha Ivanovna. There must be a change of a man's heart, and only God can do that.'"
The only thing I missed listening to the audiobook instead of reading the book were the footnotes with each chapter that gave more detail about what parts of the story were based on fact -- I wish I could have had this part too. The story of the LDS family and all that they endured was very touching and heartbreaking, but full of hope at the same time. (And I was sad to learn that the author changed the fate of some of the children.)
July 7, 2010
This historical novel, based on a true story of the first and only LDS Family in 1917 revolutionary Russia, really touched my heart and soul deeply. What this family had to go through all because they refused to deny their religion and their God! I learned a great deal about the history during that era in Russia. And it brought back memories of when I was in Berlin, Germany a few years before the wall came down. I remember the cold, dark feelings I felt when I entered East Germany and the stark differences there were from the communist controlled side of Berlin to just over the wall to the Free side of Berlin. I also remember the empty looks in the eyes of the people who lived in the East. It makes me grateful to live in a free country. I am so glad the people of Russia are now free to believe in God and in their religion once again. And I am so excited that a Temple is being built in Kiev, Ukraine. What a wonderful blessing that will be for those people.
April 15, 2024
I really enjoyed reading this book. I love historical fiction and this was an event that I have never read much about. I thought this book did a great job of explaining the difference between socialism and the law of consecration. It was an easy read and I would recommend the book to anyone who loves religious historical fiction.
July 1, 2010
I could not put this book down. I was excited when I saw the advertisement for this book and I was not disappointed. I am searching the internet for more information on the Romanov dynasty and the Russion revolution. This is a true family and their life written in a historical novel. They are taken from their home and put into work camps because they are a religious merchant family. What faith they had through terrible trials in their life and country.
November 24, 2019
I read a middle grade historical fiction (Letters in the Jade Dragon Box) by Gale Sears and loved it. I was very excited to pick up another by her; while there were parts of The Silence of God that I enjoyed, overall it was a bit of a let down.
The history part was fascinating. She did her research well and left notes at the end of each chapter. The fictional side was strong; because she followed a real family, I was always wondering how real the events of the story were and I didn't ever get very specific answers.
The story itself was mediocre, but got better as I got further. There is a lot of set up and it takes awhile for things to start happening. During the first third of the book, we got an overview of what was happening historically, but I didn't feel for the characters in the midst of those events. There were parts later in the book where I felt this a little as well, but for the most part, I was able to emphasize with the characters a lot more.
My favorite part was the main character arch of the series, following Natasha. I loved watching her struggle and grow throughout the book. She was such a strong woman and was my favorite part of the book.
The history part was fascinating. She did her research well and left notes at the end of each chapter. The fictional side was strong; because she followed a real family, I was always wondering how real the events of the story were and I didn't ever get very specific answers.
The story itself was mediocre, but got better as I got further. There is a lot of set up and it takes awhile for things to start happening. During the first third of the book, we got an overview of what was happening historically, but I didn't feel for the characters in the midst of those events. There were parts later in the book where I felt this a little as well, but for the most part, I was able to emphasize with the characters a lot more.
My favorite part was the main character arch of the series, following Natasha. I loved watching her struggle and grow throughout the book. She was such a strong woman and was my favorite part of the book.
December 15, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. It started a bit slow for me, and the editors could have paid more attention to the first few chapters, but the author reminded me of the raw reality of the Bolshevik revolution and the thousands of families it tore asunder. She also reminded me of the incredible faith shown by so many, during that time and in the many dark decades that followed for Russia.
Nobody thought the Iron Curtain would ever fall. It did. The Soviet Union was too large and powerful to collapse. It did. Much of that is due to faith. Rod Dreher wrote a book called Live Not by Lies, which recounts the true stories of people of faith persecuted behind that Iron Curtain; how they persevered and even thrived in their faith. Absolutely astounding. None of us knows if we could be that strong under those circumstances, but we should be eternally grateful for those who have proven that they are.
Nobody thought the Iron Curtain would ever fall. It did. The Soviet Union was too large and powerful to collapse. It did. Much of that is due to faith. Rod Dreher wrote a book called Live Not by Lies, which recounts the true stories of people of faith persecuted behind that Iron Curtain; how they persevered and even thrived in their faith. Absolutely astounding. None of us knows if we could be that strong under those circumstances, but we should be eternally grateful for those who have proven that they are.
June 24, 2024
Very enjoyable historical fiction set at the beginning of the Russian Revolution. My only challenge with this book is two sisters with the same letter beginning their first names made it challenging to keep from getting them mixed up in my mind. Enjoyable story. Well worth the reading time.
June 7, 2022
This is a historical fiction about Russia during the early 1900s. It's about the first members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Russia who were with Elder Francis Lyman when he offered a prayer of dedication in the Summer Gardens in St. Petersburg in 1903. Not long after this prayer, the Bolshevik Revolution began and this family suffered much hardship, but continued to trust in God.
Here are some quotes I liked:
"'We will worship the one true God of power and Christ His Son (p. 5)!'"
"Prince Vladimir brought Christianity to Russia in 988 A.D. as the Slavic historian Nestor the Chronicler records (p. 7)."
"'It was very dangerous to go against the state. A person was only supposed to see God one way.' 'I would have been thrown into prison for the gospel (p. 8).'"
"'I want to tell you of the miracle that happened the day your father and I were baptized (p. 10).'"
"'Is he more important than the tsar?'... 'Tsar Nicholas is important to Russia, and Elder Lyman is important to God (p. 11).'"
"'It is fitting that you and your sweet family should be present at this dedication, Brother Lindlof. You are the only Latter-day Saints in all of Russia. It must be lonely, and I know you have prayed for kindred worshippers. God is very aware of this great land--vast and beautiful, and filled with His children whose hearts are true and good... The Prophet Joseph wrote that the vast empire of Russia was attached to some of the most important things concerning the advancement and building up of the kingdom of God in these last days (p. 16).'"
"Her heart was happy, for now missionaries would come to Russia and there would be many families who would join the Church. Her best friend and neighbor, Natasha Ivanovna Gavrilova would be one of the first to be taught the gospel! And then, of course, Natasha's parents would want to be baptized. Agnes stopped short. The tsar! Surely the tsar would want to hear about the beautiful prayer that Elder Lyman had just given, and then the Grand Duchesses Olga and Tatyana would be baptized right away, and Marie and Anastasia when they were eight (p. 19)."
"Elder Francis Lyman pronounced two prayers of dedication for Russia, one on August 6, 1903, in the Summer Gardens in St. Petersburg, and one on August 9 of the same year in the garden outside the Kremlin in Moscow... Both prayers were recorded by Brother Joseph Cannon, and published in the Times and Seasons (p. 19)."
"'You're going to be all right now, Oskar. I've said many prayers (p. 27).'"
"'It will be hard for his generation to admit the need for change (p. 30).'"
"'There is much upheaval in Russia right now. People are listening to other voices--finding promise in talk of revolution. It is not a safe time. It might be years before the missionaries are sent to us. We have to trust God (p. 30)."
"She did not wish her friend ill, but life in Russia was changing, and if anything tested their friendship it was their opposing views on politics and religion. Agnes had been raised in an obscure American religion called Mormonism and taught to honor the tsar and the government he dictated. Natasha was raised according to her father's wishes, and was therefore separated from any form of faith, and encouraged to question every injustice and edict (p. 35)."
"'We don't need any parliamentary republic. We don't need any bourgeois democracy. We don't need any government except the soviet of workers', soldiers', and farmhands' deputies!' (p. 48)"
"Natasha felt the turbulence and the danger under her feet. She closed her eyes and put herself again in the summer meadow with Agnes. It was safer there. It was quiet (p. 50)."
"'The Bolsheviks want us to only think their way. All these brilliant people running around insisting they can figure out the best way for people to live. Kerensky and the Provisional Government say this; Lenin and the Bolsheviks say that (p. 54).'"
"'I know this is a hard time for you, my Agnes--conflict and upheaval on every side. Be patient. Trust God (p. 55).'"
"'Lenin predicts that when the government of the common man sweeps away capitalism, then people will be transformed (p. 57).'"
"'You cannot change a man's nature or behavior by outside means... There must be a change of a man's heart, and only God can do that.' 'I don't believe in God.' 'I know, and neither does Marx or Lenin. For them religion is to be purged from the system along with capitalism and class (p. 58).'"
"The book Articles of Faith by James E. Talmage first appeared in print in 1899. Its subject matter was taken from addresses delivered by Professor Talmage to university-level theology classes. The book if a study of the thirteen Articles of Faith set forth by the Prophet Joseph Smith (p. 61)."
"'You think you'll have peace if the Bolsheviks come to power (p. 63)?'"
"'There is no doctor, but our priest knows something of medicine (p. 66).'"
"'You have healing power, young master.' 'No... God has healing power (p. 69).'"
"'I suppose you find much of what our family does pathetic--believing in God and saying prayers. You think we are mindless sheep. Well, what of the way Sergey Antonovich leads you around? You are blinded by his brightness (p. 73).'"
"'Friends are dear treasures, especially lifelong friends like you and Natasha (p. 73).'"
"'When women find out we don't belong to the Orthodox faith, or that we're not Bolsheviks... or that we belong to a strange American church, they tend to find us less than desirable (p. 91).'"
"'I keep thinking of the beautiful prayer Elder Lyman gave in the Summer Garden... Mostly I remember how it made me feel. I felt that God was aware of us. That He loved the Russian people (p. 99).'"
"'I'm sure God doesn't like the chaos and contention.' 'I'm sure He doesn't.' 'So who will ever be able to unravel the political mess (p. 100)?'"
"'We are sending thousands of copies into the countryside--the small towns and villages. We Bolsheviks are strong in Petrograd and Moscow, and our message is understood by the soldiers, but we must win the hearts of all the people... And when our revolution has swept away petty selfishness--when men's hearts are changed--we will work together to build a new order... You two will be part of that. We are in this together. You cannot tie a knot with one hand... A great orator and a great writer? Yes, we will use you. We will see that you are kept very busy (p. 103).'"
"'You cannot change a man's nature or behavior by outside means. There must be a change of a man's heart, and only God can do that (p. 105).'"
"'I've never had a picture taken. Will it hurt (p. 117)?'"
"To Natasha it was a silence which reigned more terrible than all the thunders of the world. She felt as though the ground shifted beneath her. In her mind she saw the masses of peasants and workers pressing forward and the present rulers fading away like smoke from a dying fire. So much talk of revolution, so many years of persuasion and propaganda, or exile and struggle, and now the history of her beloved country was being rewritten in a night (p. 118)."
"'Has the Provisional Government surrendered (p. 119)?'"
"'Now you know why we struggle... Now you know why we fight (p. 123).'"
"'Comrades, this is the people's palace. This is our palace. Do not steal from the people... do not disgrace the people (p. 124).'"
"'You were tricked by the Provisional Government into thinking you were serving Russia... Many people believed--and still believe--that the Provisional Government served Russia, but tonight the people of Russia have spoken. And are you not the people of Russia?... Of course, you are. And we would not think of harming our own people. We are sending all the women of the women's battalion back to your camp in Levashovo (p. 127).'"
"Is God hiding behind the icons and the gold angels? And now that the Soviets are in charge, will they dismiss God as a fairy tale... that has no place in their movement toward utopian brotherhood? And will the European governments follow Russia in the vision for worldwide Socialism? And what of men's hearts (p. 129)?"
"'What is it you want?' 'Wisdom. 'More than food?' 'Yes (p. 132).'"
"'She must only ask certain questions about certain things (p. 134).'"
"'Religion will ruin her, just as it's ruined everything throughout history. Your bible is filled with wars, and genocide, and acts of vengeance. And religious history is replete with atrocities enacted in God's name (p. 134).'"
"'Tsarism and capitalism have divided the Russian people... These false systems have separated us--made us distrustful of one another. They false systems have brought national enmity, massacres, pogroms, and slavery... I say to you, comrades, that we must put an end to these unworthy policies! The old ways must be replaced with honesty and mutual confidence... in our Soviet system... Only as a result of such a union can the workers and peasants of the peoples of Russia be cemented into one revolutionary force... that will never be broken (p. 140).'"
"Lenin conceived the idea of the Red Train or agitprop train as a means of spreading the ideals of Socialism across the vast expanse of Russia. He hired artists, writers, and filmmakers to man the trains and take Bolshevik propaganda to the Russian people (p. 144)."
"'Now you see why my faith is so important to me right now. It is the main thing helping me through this sadness (p. 151).'"
"'It doesn't seem likely, does it?' 'No, but we will trust God (p. 153).'"
"'Agnes, I don't think the Gavrilovs would intentionally harm us, but loyalties change when people feel themselves threatened. We can't take the chance (p. 155).'"
"For crimes against the state--this property and all its contents are herby confiscated. All possessions will be shared equally by the people (p. 172)."
"'The government cannot force men to live a communal law! And the government can't come in the middle of the night and take innocent people away (p. 172)!'"
"'If there is a God... where was He? Where was He when this family who loves Him so much was taken away (p. 173)?'"
"'How can this sorrow ever brush past me? It is inside me... so deep inside me that I can't breathe (p. 176).'"
"'Whoever makes it, tells it not. Whoever takes it, knows it not. And whoever knows it, wants it not (p. 178).'"
"Please God, watch over them. Don't let anyone hurt them. She sat up abruptly. Where had those words come from? She didn't believe in God (p. 179)."
"'Keep strong emotion off your face, lower your head, and serve the state (p. 180).'"
"'Isn't it the Bolsheviks who want to take God out of our lives (p. 182)?'"
"'Even though God is all-powerful, He can't intervene in the madness?' 'He gives man freedom to choose (p. 183).'"
"If the Lindlof family had secreted away money, then the other three riddles might be hiding places (p. 185)."
"Lord, where are you? It wasn't the first time that thought had come to her mind over the past several weeks (p. 187)."
"The shouted slogans of 'Peace, Land, and Bread' and 'All Power to the Soviets' had begun to sound like the shrill voices of children in a schoolyard (p. 197)."
"Ekaterinburg. It was an unknown place--a place of desolation and lost souls. No one will know where we've gone (p. 198)."
"Dear Lord, please be with us in this lonely place (p. 201)."
"'Why would a small American church be interested in Russia (p. 206)?'"
"'What if it were true? What if I saw an apostle of God (p. 207)?'"
"'Will you read them to me--these articles of faith (p. 208)?'"
"Was there an actual, omniscient Being that listened to the prayers of her mother, the prayers of the tsar, the prayers of her friend? Surely it was impossible, but perhaps not. Natasha's mind still had doubts, but her heart clung to the hope that the prayers of her dear friend did find access to an unknown realm (p. 211)."
"'The former inhabitants were enemies of the state... Their house has been confiscated to house these families. It is a much better arrangement (p. 223).'"
"What could she write now that would have any meaning or truth (p. 233)?"
"The women worked mostly in the camp: cooking, cleaning, scrubbing, and sewing. The men processed lumber (p. 234)."
"'We've been praying too--praying for help, praying for a miracle (p. 236).'"
"'The one who helped you escape?'... 'The very man. Isn't that a miracle?'... 'My uncle actually recommended me to a post near Moscow, but for some strange reason I was sent here (p. 237).'"
"'I think this is exactly the place the Lindlofs would choose. This garden has a special, almost sacred, meaning for them (p. 242).'"
"'Now I just have to find out how to get the treasure to them (p. 245).'"
"Agnes did as she was told, knowing the serious mask hid a heart that, for the first time in a long time, felt happiness (p. 255)."
"'Peace? At what cost? Lithuania, Livonia, Estonia--gone. Twenty-five percent of our fertile farming area. Sixty million people. Seventy-five percent of our iron ore and coal deposits! It is a high price for peace (p. 256)!'"
"Hold on, dear Agnes. Your treasure is coming (p. 263).'"
"'The blessing talked about how much God loved him and the peace of the gospel (p. 267).'"
"'Dear Father... please, bring us your peace. Please bring peace to Oskar and to Alexandria... Bless Erland... dear Erland. And, if it be Thy will, take him home to Thee. We love him and know that he will find rest with Thee... that his sorrows will be at an end (p. 270).'"
"'The Bolsheviks have turned all the women into such equals that they've begun to look like men (p. 273).'"
"'You did everything that was asked of you... Then leave it in the hands of God (p. 277).'"
"'I will never support a government that forces people's will and silences God (p. 286).'"
"'I want the beautiful Russia of Elder Lyman's prayer--the Russia of destiny... And I'm afraid I won't live to see it (p. 286).'"
"'All religion does is exploit and befuddle the working class. That domination is over... There are no peasants or tsars or bourgeois merchants anymore... As there are no more professors. Now, we are all comrades (p. 293).'"
"'What are you doing? We never discussed destroying a church (p. 294).'"
"'You are a stupid man if you think destroying a church will destroy their faith (p. 295).'"
"'You are not an individual, Comrade Gavrilova, but a servant of the state (p. 296).'"
"'You no longer have to bow to me, or the once-royal family (p. 302).'"
"'Just look at that--one of the great walls of the Kremlin... hundreds of years old!... Inside those walls beats the heart of Mother Russia (p. 309).'"
"'The Russian people no longer need priests to pray them into heaven. We are building a kingdom on this earth far brighter than any heaven can offer (p. 311).'"
"'I want the people of this beautiful country to have joy and contentment (p. 312).'"
"How could a government silence those holy words, or keep a benevolent Heavenly Father from hearing (p. 312)?"
"She quickly lost interest in his rhetoric and he grew irritated with her complacency (p. 315)."
"'The revolution is the most important thing (p. 318).'"
"'Is this what's been twisting your mind? Is this what's been turning you from our cause (p. 320)?'"
"Dear Lord, watch over us (p. 321)."
"She and Nicholai did not talk about the night of their escape, but kept their focus and energy on getting back to Petrograd; though Natasha found that focus could not keep away the bad dreams (p. 323)."
"'You believe in heaven?' 'We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things (p. 324).'"
"'Study doesn't make you wise. My father has read much of the Bible, yet doesn't believe a word of it. You, on the other hand, have read many of Lenin's and Trotsky's writings and think they're misguided (p. 327).'"
"'So, if there is a God, why doesn't He tell us how to go (p. 327)?'"
"'They've butchered the royal family (p. 330).'"
"On the morning of July 16, 1918, the tsar's entire family was taken to the basement of the Ipatiev House and slaughtered by bullet and bayonet (p. 331)."
"'God has blessed us with this opportunity to escape and we're not going to miss it (p. 333).'"
"'The Lord will provide (p. 336).'"
"Irena looked up from hoeing potatoes and saw a group of people emerging from the forest. They walked toward her. These are the people I saw in my dream--the people with sad hearts (p. 346)."
"'How is this possible? How did you get away (p. 349)?'"
"'You were in Ekaterinburg?' 'Our work camp was near there, and my brothers and I were on the crew ordered to build a high fence around a certain house. The Red Guards called it 'the House of Special Purpose' (p. 351)."
"'I didn't anticipate the brutality. Many of my friends--brilliant men from the university--have been arrested or beaten for asking questions. Instead of brotherhood, it seems we're creating a nation of brutes (p. 352).'"
"'They've killed my family, they're killing this country, and they're killing God (p. 356).'"
"'What two things can God give you?'... 'Redemption and peace (p. 361).'"
"'You're trying to be a matchmaker!' 'No... God is doing that (p. 364).'"
"Irena said that Agnes was in heaven, but Natasha didn't know where heaven was. Was it in the sky? Somewhere among the billowing clouds (p. 365)?"
"'I'm glad there is eternity, Natasha Ivanova, but it seems a long way off (p. 366).'"
"'I'll never understand why they want to walk in darkness (p. 366).'"
"'I love you, Natasha Ivanovna. It seems as though I have loved you all my life (p. 366).'"
"'I'm glad you found God... The world won't be so dark (p. 367).'"
"'Will we ever see that Russia (p. 370)?'"
"'I guess we'll just have to leave things in God's hands (p. 372).'"
"In April 1990, Elder Russell M. Nelson offered a prayer of rededication in the Summer Gardens in St. Petersburg. In July 1990, the Helsinki East Mission was responsible for sending missionaries into Russia. In February 1992, this mission became the Russia Moscow Mission... In 1998, an LDS temple was announced... in Kiev, Ukraine (p. 374)."
Here are some quotes I liked:
"'We will worship the one true God of power and Christ His Son (p. 5)!'"
"Prince Vladimir brought Christianity to Russia in 988 A.D. as the Slavic historian Nestor the Chronicler records (p. 7)."
"'It was very dangerous to go against the state. A person was only supposed to see God one way.' 'I would have been thrown into prison for the gospel (p. 8).'"
"'I want to tell you of the miracle that happened the day your father and I were baptized (p. 10).'"
"'Is he more important than the tsar?'... 'Tsar Nicholas is important to Russia, and Elder Lyman is important to God (p. 11).'"
"'It is fitting that you and your sweet family should be present at this dedication, Brother Lindlof. You are the only Latter-day Saints in all of Russia. It must be lonely, and I know you have prayed for kindred worshippers. God is very aware of this great land--vast and beautiful, and filled with His children whose hearts are true and good... The Prophet Joseph wrote that the vast empire of Russia was attached to some of the most important things concerning the advancement and building up of the kingdom of God in these last days (p. 16).'"
"Her heart was happy, for now missionaries would come to Russia and there would be many families who would join the Church. Her best friend and neighbor, Natasha Ivanovna Gavrilova would be one of the first to be taught the gospel! And then, of course, Natasha's parents would want to be baptized. Agnes stopped short. The tsar! Surely the tsar would want to hear about the beautiful prayer that Elder Lyman had just given, and then the Grand Duchesses Olga and Tatyana would be baptized right away, and Marie and Anastasia when they were eight (p. 19)."
"Elder Francis Lyman pronounced two prayers of dedication for Russia, one on August 6, 1903, in the Summer Gardens in St. Petersburg, and one on August 9 of the same year in the garden outside the Kremlin in Moscow... Both prayers were recorded by Brother Joseph Cannon, and published in the Times and Seasons (p. 19)."
"'You're going to be all right now, Oskar. I've said many prayers (p. 27).'"
"'It will be hard for his generation to admit the need for change (p. 30).'"
"'There is much upheaval in Russia right now. People are listening to other voices--finding promise in talk of revolution. It is not a safe time. It might be years before the missionaries are sent to us. We have to trust God (p. 30)."
"She did not wish her friend ill, but life in Russia was changing, and if anything tested their friendship it was their opposing views on politics and religion. Agnes had been raised in an obscure American religion called Mormonism and taught to honor the tsar and the government he dictated. Natasha was raised according to her father's wishes, and was therefore separated from any form of faith, and encouraged to question every injustice and edict (p. 35)."
"'We don't need any parliamentary republic. We don't need any bourgeois democracy. We don't need any government except the soviet of workers', soldiers', and farmhands' deputies!' (p. 48)"
"Natasha felt the turbulence and the danger under her feet. She closed her eyes and put herself again in the summer meadow with Agnes. It was safer there. It was quiet (p. 50)."
"'The Bolsheviks want us to only think their way. All these brilliant people running around insisting they can figure out the best way for people to live. Kerensky and the Provisional Government say this; Lenin and the Bolsheviks say that (p. 54).'"
"'I know this is a hard time for you, my Agnes--conflict and upheaval on every side. Be patient. Trust God (p. 55).'"
"'Lenin predicts that when the government of the common man sweeps away capitalism, then people will be transformed (p. 57).'"
"'You cannot change a man's nature or behavior by outside means... There must be a change of a man's heart, and only God can do that.' 'I don't believe in God.' 'I know, and neither does Marx or Lenin. For them religion is to be purged from the system along with capitalism and class (p. 58).'"
"The book Articles of Faith by James E. Talmage first appeared in print in 1899. Its subject matter was taken from addresses delivered by Professor Talmage to university-level theology classes. The book if a study of the thirteen Articles of Faith set forth by the Prophet Joseph Smith (p. 61)."
"'You think you'll have peace if the Bolsheviks come to power (p. 63)?'"
"'There is no doctor, but our priest knows something of medicine (p. 66).'"
"'You have healing power, young master.' 'No... God has healing power (p. 69).'"
"'I suppose you find much of what our family does pathetic--believing in God and saying prayers. You think we are mindless sheep. Well, what of the way Sergey Antonovich leads you around? You are blinded by his brightness (p. 73).'"
"'Friends are dear treasures, especially lifelong friends like you and Natasha (p. 73).'"
"'When women find out we don't belong to the Orthodox faith, or that we're not Bolsheviks... or that we belong to a strange American church, they tend to find us less than desirable (p. 91).'"
"'I keep thinking of the beautiful prayer Elder Lyman gave in the Summer Garden... Mostly I remember how it made me feel. I felt that God was aware of us. That He loved the Russian people (p. 99).'"
"'I'm sure God doesn't like the chaos and contention.' 'I'm sure He doesn't.' 'So who will ever be able to unravel the political mess (p. 100)?'"
"'We are sending thousands of copies into the countryside--the small towns and villages. We Bolsheviks are strong in Petrograd and Moscow, and our message is understood by the soldiers, but we must win the hearts of all the people... And when our revolution has swept away petty selfishness--when men's hearts are changed--we will work together to build a new order... You two will be part of that. We are in this together. You cannot tie a knot with one hand... A great orator and a great writer? Yes, we will use you. We will see that you are kept very busy (p. 103).'"
"'You cannot change a man's nature or behavior by outside means. There must be a change of a man's heart, and only God can do that (p. 105).'"
"'I've never had a picture taken. Will it hurt (p. 117)?'"
"To Natasha it was a silence which reigned more terrible than all the thunders of the world. She felt as though the ground shifted beneath her. In her mind she saw the masses of peasants and workers pressing forward and the present rulers fading away like smoke from a dying fire. So much talk of revolution, so many years of persuasion and propaganda, or exile and struggle, and now the history of her beloved country was being rewritten in a night (p. 118)."
"'Has the Provisional Government surrendered (p. 119)?'"
"'Now you know why we struggle... Now you know why we fight (p. 123).'"
"'Comrades, this is the people's palace. This is our palace. Do not steal from the people... do not disgrace the people (p. 124).'"
"'You were tricked by the Provisional Government into thinking you were serving Russia... Many people believed--and still believe--that the Provisional Government served Russia, but tonight the people of Russia have spoken. And are you not the people of Russia?... Of course, you are. And we would not think of harming our own people. We are sending all the women of the women's battalion back to your camp in Levashovo (p. 127).'"
"Is God hiding behind the icons and the gold angels? And now that the Soviets are in charge, will they dismiss God as a fairy tale... that has no place in their movement toward utopian brotherhood? And will the European governments follow Russia in the vision for worldwide Socialism? And what of men's hearts (p. 129)?"
"'What is it you want?' 'Wisdom. 'More than food?' 'Yes (p. 132).'"
"'She must only ask certain questions about certain things (p. 134).'"
"'Religion will ruin her, just as it's ruined everything throughout history. Your bible is filled with wars, and genocide, and acts of vengeance. And religious history is replete with atrocities enacted in God's name (p. 134).'"
"'Tsarism and capitalism have divided the Russian people... These false systems have separated us--made us distrustful of one another. They false systems have brought national enmity, massacres, pogroms, and slavery... I say to you, comrades, that we must put an end to these unworthy policies! The old ways must be replaced with honesty and mutual confidence... in our Soviet system... Only as a result of such a union can the workers and peasants of the peoples of Russia be cemented into one revolutionary force... that will never be broken (p. 140).'"
"Lenin conceived the idea of the Red Train or agitprop train as a means of spreading the ideals of Socialism across the vast expanse of Russia. He hired artists, writers, and filmmakers to man the trains and take Bolshevik propaganda to the Russian people (p. 144)."
"'Now you see why my faith is so important to me right now. It is the main thing helping me through this sadness (p. 151).'"
"'It doesn't seem likely, does it?' 'No, but we will trust God (p. 153).'"
"'Agnes, I don't think the Gavrilovs would intentionally harm us, but loyalties change when people feel themselves threatened. We can't take the chance (p. 155).'"
"For crimes against the state--this property and all its contents are herby confiscated. All possessions will be shared equally by the people (p. 172)."
"'The government cannot force men to live a communal law! And the government can't come in the middle of the night and take innocent people away (p. 172)!'"
"'If there is a God... where was He? Where was He when this family who loves Him so much was taken away (p. 173)?'"
"'How can this sorrow ever brush past me? It is inside me... so deep inside me that I can't breathe (p. 176).'"
"'Whoever makes it, tells it not. Whoever takes it, knows it not. And whoever knows it, wants it not (p. 178).'"
"Please God, watch over them. Don't let anyone hurt them. She sat up abruptly. Where had those words come from? She didn't believe in God (p. 179)."
"'Keep strong emotion off your face, lower your head, and serve the state (p. 180).'"
"'Isn't it the Bolsheviks who want to take God out of our lives (p. 182)?'"
"'Even though God is all-powerful, He can't intervene in the madness?' 'He gives man freedom to choose (p. 183).'"
"If the Lindlof family had secreted away money, then the other three riddles might be hiding places (p. 185)."
"Lord, where are you? It wasn't the first time that thought had come to her mind over the past several weeks (p. 187)."
"The shouted slogans of 'Peace, Land, and Bread' and 'All Power to the Soviets' had begun to sound like the shrill voices of children in a schoolyard (p. 197)."
"Ekaterinburg. It was an unknown place--a place of desolation and lost souls. No one will know where we've gone (p. 198)."
"Dear Lord, please be with us in this lonely place (p. 201)."
"'Why would a small American church be interested in Russia (p. 206)?'"
"'What if it were true? What if I saw an apostle of God (p. 207)?'"
"'Will you read them to me--these articles of faith (p. 208)?'"
"Was there an actual, omniscient Being that listened to the prayers of her mother, the prayers of the tsar, the prayers of her friend? Surely it was impossible, but perhaps not. Natasha's mind still had doubts, but her heart clung to the hope that the prayers of her dear friend did find access to an unknown realm (p. 211)."
"'The former inhabitants were enemies of the state... Their house has been confiscated to house these families. It is a much better arrangement (p. 223).'"
"What could she write now that would have any meaning or truth (p. 233)?"
"The women worked mostly in the camp: cooking, cleaning, scrubbing, and sewing. The men processed lumber (p. 234)."
"'We've been praying too--praying for help, praying for a miracle (p. 236).'"
"'The one who helped you escape?'... 'The very man. Isn't that a miracle?'... 'My uncle actually recommended me to a post near Moscow, but for some strange reason I was sent here (p. 237).'"
"'I think this is exactly the place the Lindlofs would choose. This garden has a special, almost sacred, meaning for them (p. 242).'"
"'Now I just have to find out how to get the treasure to them (p. 245).'"
"Agnes did as she was told, knowing the serious mask hid a heart that, for the first time in a long time, felt happiness (p. 255)."
"'Peace? At what cost? Lithuania, Livonia, Estonia--gone. Twenty-five percent of our fertile farming area. Sixty million people. Seventy-five percent of our iron ore and coal deposits! It is a high price for peace (p. 256)!'"
"Hold on, dear Agnes. Your treasure is coming (p. 263).'"
"'The blessing talked about how much God loved him and the peace of the gospel (p. 267).'"
"'Dear Father... please, bring us your peace. Please bring peace to Oskar and to Alexandria... Bless Erland... dear Erland. And, if it be Thy will, take him home to Thee. We love him and know that he will find rest with Thee... that his sorrows will be at an end (p. 270).'"
"'The Bolsheviks have turned all the women into such equals that they've begun to look like men (p. 273).'"
"'You did everything that was asked of you... Then leave it in the hands of God (p. 277).'"
"'I will never support a government that forces people's will and silences God (p. 286).'"
"'I want the beautiful Russia of Elder Lyman's prayer--the Russia of destiny... And I'm afraid I won't live to see it (p. 286).'"
"'All religion does is exploit and befuddle the working class. That domination is over... There are no peasants or tsars or bourgeois merchants anymore... As there are no more professors. Now, we are all comrades (p. 293).'"
"'What are you doing? We never discussed destroying a church (p. 294).'"
"'You are a stupid man if you think destroying a church will destroy their faith (p. 295).'"
"'You are not an individual, Comrade Gavrilova, but a servant of the state (p. 296).'"
"'You no longer have to bow to me, or the once-royal family (p. 302).'"
"'Just look at that--one of the great walls of the Kremlin... hundreds of years old!... Inside those walls beats the heart of Mother Russia (p. 309).'"
"'The Russian people no longer need priests to pray them into heaven. We are building a kingdom on this earth far brighter than any heaven can offer (p. 311).'"
"'I want the people of this beautiful country to have joy and contentment (p. 312).'"
"How could a government silence those holy words, or keep a benevolent Heavenly Father from hearing (p. 312)?"
"She quickly lost interest in his rhetoric and he grew irritated with her complacency (p. 315)."
"'The revolution is the most important thing (p. 318).'"
"'Is this what's been twisting your mind? Is this what's been turning you from our cause (p. 320)?'"
"Dear Lord, watch over us (p. 321)."
"She and Nicholai did not talk about the night of their escape, but kept their focus and energy on getting back to Petrograd; though Natasha found that focus could not keep away the bad dreams (p. 323)."
"'You believe in heaven?' 'We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things (p. 324).'"
"'Study doesn't make you wise. My father has read much of the Bible, yet doesn't believe a word of it. You, on the other hand, have read many of Lenin's and Trotsky's writings and think they're misguided (p. 327).'"
"'So, if there is a God, why doesn't He tell us how to go (p. 327)?'"
"'They've butchered the royal family (p. 330).'"
"On the morning of July 16, 1918, the tsar's entire family was taken to the basement of the Ipatiev House and slaughtered by bullet and bayonet (p. 331)."
"'God has blessed us with this opportunity to escape and we're not going to miss it (p. 333).'"
"'The Lord will provide (p. 336).'"
"Irena looked up from hoeing potatoes and saw a group of people emerging from the forest. They walked toward her. These are the people I saw in my dream--the people with sad hearts (p. 346)."
"'How is this possible? How did you get away (p. 349)?'"
"'You were in Ekaterinburg?' 'Our work camp was near there, and my brothers and I were on the crew ordered to build a high fence around a certain house. The Red Guards called it 'the House of Special Purpose' (p. 351)."
"'I didn't anticipate the brutality. Many of my friends--brilliant men from the university--have been arrested or beaten for asking questions. Instead of brotherhood, it seems we're creating a nation of brutes (p. 352).'"
"'They've killed my family, they're killing this country, and they're killing God (p. 356).'"
"'What two things can God give you?'... 'Redemption and peace (p. 361).'"
"'You're trying to be a matchmaker!' 'No... God is doing that (p. 364).'"
"Irena said that Agnes was in heaven, but Natasha didn't know where heaven was. Was it in the sky? Somewhere among the billowing clouds (p. 365)?"
"'I'm glad there is eternity, Natasha Ivanova, but it seems a long way off (p. 366).'"
"'I'll never understand why they want to walk in darkness (p. 366).'"
"'I love you, Natasha Ivanovna. It seems as though I have loved you all my life (p. 366).'"
"'I'm glad you found God... The world won't be so dark (p. 367).'"
"'Will we ever see that Russia (p. 370)?'"
"'I guess we'll just have to leave things in God's hands (p. 372).'"
"In April 1990, Elder Russell M. Nelson offered a prayer of rededication in the Summer Gardens in St. Petersburg. In July 1990, the Helsinki East Mission was responsible for sending missionaries into Russia. In February 1992, this mission became the Russia Moscow Mission... In 1998, an LDS temple was announced... in Kiev, Ukraine (p. 374)."
April 24, 2021
I enjoyed this book set during the revolution in Russia. What a tragic history of deceit and oppression as the Russian people try to find more than poverty and hunger. The Lindolf family suffers incredible hardships. This book has peaked my interest in Russian history. Thanks.
February 19, 2011
"'Neither Marx nor Lenin knows how this transformation will happen - how man will change from a selfish lout to a caring, hardworking comrade. They just believe that somehow it will.'
[Natasha] looked again into Mr. Lindloff's eyes. 'You don't believe that.'
"No. You cannot change a man's nature or behavior by outside means, Natasha Ivanova. There must be a change of a man's heart, and only God can do that.'" (p. 57-58)
In 1917 Russia, a current of unrest was brewing among the working class. The age of opulence, wealth, and faith was on its way out and Socialism, as proclaimed by the Bolsheviks, was on its way in. The Bolshevik Revolution would change the course of history forever.
Based on a true story, Sears focuses on the Lindlof family, the only Latter-Day Saints living in Russia at the time. Their strong faith and bourgeoise position in society are in direct opposition of everything the Bolsheviks stand for. It is not long before their family is torn apart and most of the Lindlof children are sent away to a work camp in Siberia.
Agnes Lindloff's best friend is Natasha Ivanova, devout follower of the Soviet cause. Natasha's high-profile job writing propaganda for the party puts her in contact with powerful figures like Lenin and Trotsky, but also causes some tension in her friendship with Agnes. She thinks the Lindloff's beliefs are superstitious and meaningless, but she and Agnes manage to put their differences aside and remain quite close. When the Lindloff's are arrested in the middle of the night, Natasha's entire belief system is shaken to the core.
The Revolution is not unfolding as Natasha believed it would. Innocent people are being thrown into work camps. Party leaders are acting in their own best interest, instead of the interest of the people. Suspicion, skepticism, fear and distrust run rampant as the Bolsheviks struggle to make their cause heard. Natasha surprisingly finds herself clinging to a book Mr. Lindloff gave her called The Articles of Faith. As she reads further, Natasha's views begin to shift.
I really enjoyed Sear's account of this tumultuous time in Russian history. She has obviously meticulously researched the events surrounding the Tsar's deposition and the Bolshevik Revolution. I appreciated the footnotes at the end of each chapter that provided more information about some of the details mentioned in the narrative. At times some of the situations the characters were in seemed somewhat contrived, but overall I found the prose descriptive and easy to read and the characters believable. I'm fascinated by fiction based on scandalous events in history and Sear's novel provided just the fix I needed.
[Natasha] looked again into Mr. Lindloff's eyes. 'You don't believe that.'
"No. You cannot change a man's nature or behavior by outside means, Natasha Ivanova. There must be a change of a man's heart, and only God can do that.'" (p. 57-58)
In 1917 Russia, a current of unrest was brewing among the working class. The age of opulence, wealth, and faith was on its way out and Socialism, as proclaimed by the Bolsheviks, was on its way in. The Bolshevik Revolution would change the course of history forever.
Based on a true story, Sears focuses on the Lindlof family, the only Latter-Day Saints living in Russia at the time. Their strong faith and bourgeoise position in society are in direct opposition of everything the Bolsheviks stand for. It is not long before their family is torn apart and most of the Lindlof children are sent away to a work camp in Siberia.
Agnes Lindloff's best friend is Natasha Ivanova, devout follower of the Soviet cause. Natasha's high-profile job writing propaganda for the party puts her in contact with powerful figures like Lenin and Trotsky, but also causes some tension in her friendship with Agnes. She thinks the Lindloff's beliefs are superstitious and meaningless, but she and Agnes manage to put their differences aside and remain quite close. When the Lindloff's are arrested in the middle of the night, Natasha's entire belief system is shaken to the core.
The Revolution is not unfolding as Natasha believed it would. Innocent people are being thrown into work camps. Party leaders are acting in their own best interest, instead of the interest of the people. Suspicion, skepticism, fear and distrust run rampant as the Bolsheviks struggle to make their cause heard. Natasha surprisingly finds herself clinging to a book Mr. Lindloff gave her called The Articles of Faith. As she reads further, Natasha's views begin to shift.
I really enjoyed Sear's account of this tumultuous time in Russian history. She has obviously meticulously researched the events surrounding the Tsar's deposition and the Bolshevik Revolution. I appreciated the footnotes at the end of each chapter that provided more information about some of the details mentioned in the narrative. At times some of the situations the characters were in seemed somewhat contrived, but overall I found the prose descriptive and easy to read and the characters believable. I'm fascinated by fiction based on scandalous events in history and Sear's novel provided just the fix I needed.
January 28, 2020
Update: I read this book again in December 2020. Reading it several years after the first time I read, with an increased perspective and experience, and considering the political situation in our world, I had a much different experience with the book this time. It tells the story of a real family in Russia that belonged to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in the early 1900s—the only members in the country, in fact. The story is based on their experiences, but also based on extensive research of the events and time period and what people in general experienced. Through the eyes of the Lindlof family, their fictional Revolutionary neighbors, and other characters, we learn about the varied feelings of Russian citizens at the time, the social issues that drove terrible political and social unrest that led to terrible contention, a civil war, and a complete change in government, and what people will choose to do to obtain their objectives, even if it means treating other human beings with disrespect and even violence. We are also poignantly reminded that only God can change and soften hearts, that truth is one of the greatest vehicles for change, and that freedoms are precious gifts. We may not understand why God’s promises seem to take so long to be fulfilled sometimes, but through faith in Him and His plans and promises, we will see those promises fulfilled and realize that the blessings are greater than we could have ever imagined.
Original review from 2011: The Lindlof family is the only LDS family in Russia in the early 1900's. After Elder Widtsoe visits St. Petersburg to dedicate the land for the preaching of the gospel, they look forward to the growth of the Church in their land. But as social unrest begins to tear apart the government and way of life, they wonder if they will ever see the promises of an Apostle come to pass. The story not only follows the Lindlofs, but some neighbors who support the Revolution. I learned a lot about this time period, and the consequences it had in our world. It also serves as a warning to us that we could find ourselves in the same situation if we lose sight of the truth. I think I expected this book to be different or go a different direction, so I was a little disappointed, but it really is a good book.
Original review from 2011: The Lindlof family is the only LDS family in Russia in the early 1900's. After Elder Widtsoe visits St. Petersburg to dedicate the land for the preaching of the gospel, they look forward to the growth of the Church in their land. But as social unrest begins to tear apart the government and way of life, they wonder if they will ever see the promises of an Apostle come to pass. The story not only follows the Lindlofs, but some neighbors who support the Revolution. I learned a lot about this time period, and the consequences it had in our world. It also serves as a warning to us that we could find ourselves in the same situation if we lose sight of the truth. I think I expected this book to be different or go a different direction, so I was a little disappointed, but it really is a good book.
July 29, 2010
When I was fifteen, I had the incredible experience of being able to go to Russia with a group of other teens on a tour designed to teach Russian teens about free enterprise. While there, we toured some of the huge cathedrals and learned the history of religion in the country, how many of the churches were destroyed or turned from their original purpose. Our tour guide explained how some of the churches were still operational as such, but not all. I was saddened to look upon these beautiful buildings, designed to glorify God, but instead, reduced to mere pieces of incredible architecture.
"The Silence of God" by Gale Sears very much speaks to this theme. Going back to 988 A.D. and the introduction of Christianity to Russia by Prince Vladimir and moving forward in time to the Revolution in the early 1900s, we see how important religion is to the lives and emotional well-being of these people who have been placed in some of life's most difficult circumstances. We meet the Lindlof family, the first LDS family in Russia, and follow them as they try to adhere to the tenets of their faith in the midst of harsh adversity, including time spent in Siberia. We learn of the Bolshevik theology and are shown the leaders of this movement in a more human light than we ordinarily view them. We are shown friendship and the power it has to preserve life.
Of necessity, Sears fictionalized many aspects of the Lindlof's story, while the basic structure is factual. It's impossible to know everything a person thought, said, or did when looking back at them through the lens of time. Sears did a remarkable job of keeping the tone of the country consistent through word choice and the structure of her dialogue.
I did wish that some sections had been fleshed out. This book could have been easily twice its length and I would have stayed with it until the last word on the page - the events depicted are fascinating and some were only given a mention where a full page or even a chapter would have done it more justice. That said, I give "The Silence of God" two big thumbs up and highly recommend it.
"The Silence of God" by Gale Sears very much speaks to this theme. Going back to 988 A.D. and the introduction of Christianity to Russia by Prince Vladimir and moving forward in time to the Revolution in the early 1900s, we see how important religion is to the lives and emotional well-being of these people who have been placed in some of life's most difficult circumstances. We meet the Lindlof family, the first LDS family in Russia, and follow them as they try to adhere to the tenets of their faith in the midst of harsh adversity, including time spent in Siberia. We learn of the Bolshevik theology and are shown the leaders of this movement in a more human light than we ordinarily view them. We are shown friendship and the power it has to preserve life.
Of necessity, Sears fictionalized many aspects of the Lindlof's story, while the basic structure is factual. It's impossible to know everything a person thought, said, or did when looking back at them through the lens of time. Sears did a remarkable job of keeping the tone of the country consistent through word choice and the structure of her dialogue.
I did wish that some sections had been fleshed out. This book could have been easily twice its length and I would have stayed with it until the last word on the page - the events depicted are fascinating and some were only given a mention where a full page or even a chapter would have done it more justice. That said, I give "The Silence of God" two big thumbs up and highly recommend it.
October 8, 2010
I really wanted to like this book. Russian history is very intriguing to me especially the Bolshevik revolution. This book is about a LDS family in Russia during this time period and how they became a target after Red October because of their wealth (and belief in God).
Unfortunately, the characters were static and benign despite being based on real people. The writing was "Work and the Glory"ish. I don't enjoy that sort of writing but understand that others do. The main conflicts in the story came from outside the characters in the form of what was happening in the country. I'm not belittling the horrific circumstances of this time period, I'm only suggesting that the characters lacked complex emotions and inner struggles that endear them to readers. William Faulkner said that only "the human heart in conflict with itself..can make good writing because only that is worth writing about, worth the agony and the sweat."
Without the historical factor, this wouldn't be much of a story at all. I knew it was bad when I was more interested in the footnotes at the end of the chapters than the story.
I did like the focus in the book on the flaws of the Bolshevik's philosophy especially the belief that a system of government can/could miraculously change people into selfless beings. Virtue cannot be forced and so the entire revolution blew up into brutality and civil war.
I'd say this book is worth reading for the historical perspective.
Unfortunately, the characters were static and benign despite being based on real people. The writing was "Work and the Glory"ish. I don't enjoy that sort of writing but understand that others do. The main conflicts in the story came from outside the characters in the form of what was happening in the country. I'm not belittling the horrific circumstances of this time period, I'm only suggesting that the characters lacked complex emotions and inner struggles that endear them to readers. William Faulkner said that only "the human heart in conflict with itself..can make good writing because only that is worth writing about, worth the agony and the sweat."
Without the historical factor, this wouldn't be much of a story at all. I knew it was bad when I was more interested in the footnotes at the end of the chapters than the story.
I did like the focus in the book on the flaws of the Bolshevik's philosophy especially the belief that a system of government can/could miraculously change people into selfless beings. Virtue cannot be forced and so the entire revolution blew up into brutality and civil war.
I'd say this book is worth reading for the historical perspective.
February 24, 2011
I anticipated loving this book because of all the positive reviews and my own interest in the subject, but it was not as engaging as I thought it would be. It was fairly slow in the beginning and the writing style did not pull me in and connect me to the characters.
Nevertheless, it was interesting and well-researched. I found myself wanting to know more about the history and appreciating all the footnotes. I was intrigued by the philosophies behind the revolution, the setting up of Soviets in Russia, and the speedy transformation of a monarchy into a government supposedly by the people, but actually by evil hiding behind a facade of equality. But equality is not freedom and one does not force man to be good by silencing God in his heart...Great messages to get one thinking.
Unfortunately,after taking such care to be accurate, the author departed from history at the end and changed the fate of some of the Lindlof children, as she noted in her footnotes. It may have made the ending happier, their survival more miraculous, but that is meaningless if it is not true. It is like writing a fictionalized "Anne Frank" and having her survive the Nazi concentration camps just to please one's readers. When it comes to history, we want the truth.
Nevertheless, it was interesting and well-researched. I found myself wanting to know more about the history and appreciating all the footnotes. I was intrigued by the philosophies behind the revolution, the setting up of Soviets in Russia, and the speedy transformation of a monarchy into a government supposedly by the people, but actually by evil hiding behind a facade of equality. But equality is not freedom and one does not force man to be good by silencing God in his heart...Great messages to get one thinking.
Unfortunately,after taking such care to be accurate, the author departed from history at the end and changed the fate of some of the Lindlof children, as she noted in her footnotes. It may have made the ending happier, their survival more miraculous, but that is meaningless if it is not true. It is like writing a fictionalized "Anne Frank" and having her survive the Nazi concentration camps just to please one's readers. When it comes to history, we want the truth.
June 7, 2012
Very interesting perspective on the Bolshevik Revolution and socialism compared with Gospel teachings about agency, the united order, and faith. The main characters are the Lindlof family, the only members of the LDS church in Russia, and their fictional neighbor and friend who joins the socialist movement and views religion as not much different from the fairy tales she heard growing up.
I never really studied Russian history, just picked up some bits and pieces here and there. Surprisingly, this book helped connect some of those random facts and now I have a much clearer idea of what actually happened and why. For that reason, I wish it had been longer! The only thing that bothered me was that Sears uses the Lindlof family as the basis for her story, but then changes a lot of what actually happened to them, which she only briefly touches on in the chapter end notes. But otherwise, a great book. I have a new appreciation for the Russian people after reading this.
I never really studied Russian history, just picked up some bits and pieces here and there. Surprisingly, this book helped connect some of those random facts and now I have a much clearer idea of what actually happened and why. For that reason, I wish it had been longer! The only thing that bothered me was that Sears uses the Lindlof family as the basis for her story, but then changes a lot of what actually happened to them, which she only briefly touches on in the chapter end notes. But otherwise, a great book. I have a new appreciation for the Russian people after reading this.
January 2, 2011
If you like LDS Historical Fiction, you'll like this book from Gale Sears. I'm glad I read this book. I haven't heard much LDS history come out of Russia especially during WWI. Gale Sears writes a moving story about a horrible and suppressive time in Russian history. LDS gospel and Russian history mingle to bring a rich story of love, sacrifice and the Savior.
The story loosely follows the Lindlof family, who were the first LDS Russians. The author does a good job of drawing the reader into loving and siding with certain characters. Their triumphs and tragedies weigh with the readers also. And I always wonder when I read a story with human sufferings, how can we treat each other so poorly? It hurts my heart. I was grateful that Ms. Sears put many good people to help soften the ugliness of war and the pain that comes from it.
July 14, 2010
Just finished. This is the story of the only LDS family in Russia during the Red Revolution, but more than that, this is the story of Russia. I liked that I could put this book down--since I tend to be an addict, this is a good thing--especially for my children. I LOVED learning about Russian history--so many, many things I NEVER knew about. This is a very good book. Some of the editing at the beginning was a bit choppy, but it seemed to get better as the book went on. Either that or I didn't notice because I was more into the story. (Thank you to Karin for making me notice editing). Highly recommend.
April 24, 2012
3 and 1/2 stars.
I stopped reading Mormon fiction a long time ago because of the cheesy writing, but I have to say this book is not like that. I enjoyed it. I was fascinated by the Women's Death Battalion. That would make an amazing book and I think someone out there should write it. That was the first time I had ever learned about those girls.
I think the author tried to give you a good side by side of Socialism vs. Mormonism. There were liberties taken, but I think she was trying to give you an overview of history and if you read the footnotes you kept up with what was real. I really enjoyed the character of Natasha and how the book ended up being her story as well.
I stopped reading Mormon fiction a long time ago because of the cheesy writing, but I have to say this book is not like that. I enjoyed it. I was fascinated by the Women's Death Battalion. That would make an amazing book and I think someone out there should write it. That was the first time I had ever learned about those girls.
I think the author tried to give you a good side by side of Socialism vs. Mormonism. There were liberties taken, but I think she was trying to give you an overview of history and if you read the footnotes you kept up with what was real. I really enjoyed the character of Natasha and how the book ended up being her story as well.
September 7, 2010
Excellent. I highly recommend this book to readers that love history, and also love a faith inspiring read. This also is a great book to read to help you realize, how lucky most of us are, to live where freedom reigns. I can tell you that I will always remember this book and it's characters. This is based on a real LDS family in Russia during the 1917 revolution and the government did try to silence God.
April 11, 2013
I thought this was a sweet story, but going into it I thought that it was a true story and yes these are real people and some of these things happened to them, but not really in the way it was portrayed. I think that the author should have included more of what was true and fictional about the characters in the endings of the chapters because I wondered about a lot of those things throughout the book. But overall I enjoyed the story even if it was more fictional than I originally thought.
August 1, 2013
The Silence of God By Gale Sears A family came to Russia from Finland to spread the gospel of the LDS church. They exercised their faith and friendship in a faithless society. Only their neighbor girl belived. Revolution and war separated the family. Their presence ther lead to the future of the LDS Church in Russia. In 1998 a LDS temple was constructed in Kiev. The family led by example.
September 27, 2010
I enjoyed learning a bit of Soviet history along with the story of the first LDS saints in Mother Russia. There were so many characters and so much more I wanted to know, I wish it had been multiple volumes with more character development, more history, details about the outcome of the family and church in Russia and not such an abrupt ending.
July 9, 2010
This is a very inspiring book. It makes you remember and realize the blessings of living in a free country. Gale Sears is a great author.
You can read my full review of this book at my blog here at
http://whynotbecauseisaidso.blogspot....
You can read my full review of this book at my blog here at
http://whynotbecauseisaidso.blogspot....
July 1, 2010
An inspirational and educational historical novel about an LDS family in Russia during the early 20th century. The story of what this family went through is powerful. I also learned so much about Russian history that I had never before known or understood. I recommend it.
March 5, 2012
I thought this was a very interesting book, with lots of things that I didn't know about with regards to both Russia's history and Church history. It was, though, the second half of the book that I found riveting.
October 8, 2010
I really liked the history of Russia and the stuff about Lenin and Trostky and the Romanovs. I wished that there was more real data on the Linlof family. I did discover them in new.familysearch.org and they are all real people.
August 1, 2011
Enjoyed this story about a family who are members The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Russia and how the Russian people were influenced and affected by the political termoil during the early 1900's.
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