Sons of Blackbird Mountain is an achingly beautiful story of brotherhood and romance. The quiet strength and vibrancy of the characters, especially the main viewpoints of Thor and Aven, combine with an atmospheric setting and compelling era to create a story that resonates deeply within the human heart. It is riveting, atmospheric, with a complexity of characters (especially the themes of brotherhood) — and that doesn’t begin to describe it!

Thor’s perspective is an experience in itself. With great care, Joanne has portrayed his world and experiences as a deaf individual in a nearly-tangible way. Even noting nuances and things he does differently (makes noises walking through woods, breathing patterns, realizes he doesn’t understand letter sounds, so many things). I loved that Thor’s character proves he is a man only limited in audible speech, not in emotion or presence or other capabilities. His heart, even in the middle of major personal obstacles, is on display.

I can’t help but mentally compare him to Joanne’s other A-MA-ZING and forever favorite hero Charlie Lionheart (from The Lady and the Lionheart) Thor starts out the antithesis of Charlie in so many ways, yet their similarities by story’s end are wonderful. Both are strong, selflessly sacrificing and desiring to be a help to those around them. Both love with abandon.

And oh, what a time Aven has finding her place and her belonging in this new world and with these colorful people! Her story, when fully revealed, is poignant and sorrowful in itself, making her newfound circumstances all the more important for her presence and healing.

Books and stories can lend voices to those we normally would not hear, whether muted by society, history, or otherwise silenced. Author Joanne Bischof accomplishes this feat with a lyrical, immersive, and prose-like style that is never afraid to delve deep into matters of the the heart in all their joy and despair. In this case, a fictional tale brings to life the perspective of a deaf brother and a rootless young woman whose presence forever changes the lives of three brothers.

Thank you to the publisher, Thomas Nelson, for the review copy. This is my honest review.

I love every minute of this book. The richness of the story and the depth of the characters took my breath away. I couldn’t get enough. I don’t often read a book more than once, but this is one that I loved so much, I probably will. The struggles and battles the characters faced were unique and I felt as if I was fighting with them. This is the first book I have read by Joanne Bischof. It will not be my last. Her style of writing is amazing. I felt transported and my heart became invested in no time. I can’t say enough about this book. When I wasn’t reading I felt as if the story haunted me in the best way possible. I easily fell in love with Thor. I felt my eyes opened to some of the struggles those who can’t hear encounter. This book would be amazing for a book club. I found myself wanting to discuss the story with everyone, and encouraged them to read it. If only there were more books like this. I can not wait until the next book is released. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through Netgalley. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Sons of Blackbird Mountain is a beautifully written inspirational romance. I loved the plot, characters and the setting. This author has such a way with the written word I find it hard to believe I haven’t read her work before. I highly recommend this book. My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC. This is my unbiased review.

Spend but ten minutes gettin’ to know Thor Norgaard and you’ll forget he silent.
You’ll learn and hear things that most men don’t even know how to speak.”

Y’all. I didn’t think anything could top Bischof’s The Lady & The Lionheart for me. That book absolutely undid me. But I have to say that Sons of Blackbird Mountain undid me even more. And while Thor didn’t topple Charlie from his spot on my fave book boyfriends he does stand right alongside him, giving him a solid run for his money. I already know my review will be woefully lacking to adequately describe how touching and beautiful this book really is.

There is so much depth to this gorgeous story – even (especially) in the gentle subtleties that Bischof tucks inside her writing, from the way the Norgaard brothers each represent a different facet of the Viking spirit to the way the variety of apples in the orchard itself reminded me of the different dimensions to the story. As tenderly as possible, the author weaves in layers of sibling rivalry, domestic abuse, alcoholism, racism, and greed with even more tenderly drawn layers of hope, healing and courage. This is a story that does not shy away from the harshness of life or sin. But it’s also a story that boldly proclaims freedom for the captive and beauty from the ashes.

The cast of engaging characters are authentically imperfect and will break your heart a little before they heal it too. Especially Thor – oh my heart. His lovable giant self, made all the more endearing by the ways he compensates for the fact that he can’t speak (or hear), won me over in the first few pages when he observes what no one else does & brings Aven a glass of water before giving it a nudge toward her when she makes no move to pick it up. I don’t know why that nudge made me fall in love with him so quickly, but it did.

In Thor’s case, the absence of speech or sound does not mean the absence of conversation or emotion and the way the author has so lovingly crafted his character speaks louder than any voice could. Even down to subtle details such as the cadence of his sign language, the way he doesn’t realize how loud his movements are, his breathing patterns, etc., his characterization is spot-on and we get a clearer picture of his heart in a way that we might not otherwise. Bischof’s portrayal of Thor as not only Deaf & mute but also an alcoholic sets aside everything we’ve come to expect in our heroes – and I LOVE IT. The depth of his story is all-encompassing, wrapping around you until you can barely breathe from the exquisite beauty of Grace and redemption.

I could seriously go on and on and on. I haven’t even talked yet about Aven and her relationship with Thor. I haven’t mentioned Ida or Cora or Jorgen or Haaken or Peter. These characters all captured me in one way or the other, and their combined stories touched me soul-deep.

Bottom Line: I called The Lady and the Lionheart “heartachingly beautiful”, and it is. But I honestly think that Sons of Blackbird Mountain is even more so. These characters, their struggles, and their healing burrow into the heart and refuse to let go. Bischof’s mastery of language, her skill in setting, and her incomparable talent in subtle symbolism are refreshing and poetic. I of course want you to read all the books, but if you can only read one book this year, make it this one!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

Genre: Historical fiction.

My Rating: 4 and 1/2 Stars

Recommendation: 16+ Violence, romance, and attitudes.

My favorite character/s: Thor is my favorite character in the end of the book, and I loved how he changed throughout the book.
My Verse for Ephesians 5:18
And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; King James Version

My thoughts: This was my first book by this author, and I found it very interesting. I can say that I woud like to read more about the characters.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is described as a haunting tale of struggle and redemption, that is exactly what I found as I was pulled into this family’s life in the rugged hills of Nineteenth-Century Appalachia. It’s not a fast paced, lots of action type story but the family struggles and faith made it an interesting and touching story. I enjoyed the depth of the authors descriptions of this period of time.
I receive complimentary books from CelebrateLit, publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own and voluntary.

I loved so much about this book – beginning with the setting. Having lived in, and visited the Appalachian area, I can easily picture this backdrop. The characters are rich and lively (I don’t think I’ve read a book with a deaf character before) and the plot carries a lot of depth and a myriad of themes.

There are many things I don’t usually find in Christian fiction, such as alcohol (cider) and such, but it fits so well into the setting, time, and story. Everything is done tastefully without straying from the spiritual aspect of the story.

With great pacing, interesting flawed characters, and a spiritual thread throughout, this book put me through a mixture of emotions. Sons of Blackbird Mountain will appeal to those who enjoy christian and historical fiction. I look forward to reading more stories by Joanne Bischof.


Cover: Love
Title: Love
Pages: 352
Series: A Blackbird Mountain Novel Book 1
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
First Line: Aven peered down at the letter again, noticed the address written in Aunt Dorothe’s hand, then looked back to the wooden sign that was staked into the ground.
I received a complimentary copy from BookLook and NetGalley.

There’s such an exquisite thread of history woven into this book. From racial battles to fighting addictions, there’s so much to the story. The beautiful Appalachian setting stirs the heart. It’s perfect for Sharon McCrumb fans!

Remember the movie Legends of the Fall? Or maybe, Sabrina? The Norgaard brothers have similar issues with women. I loved how Ida and her family kept the brothers in line! I’m thrilled that it will be a series so I can follow what happens with these characters.

Bichof presents Thor’s communication problems with gentleness and grace. Before reading Sons of Blackbird Mountain, I didn’t know much about the nuances of Sign Language, or even written communication from a Deaf person like Thor. It’s always fun to learn something new.

Though it’s categorized as Christian fiction, there are some pretty nontraditional topics broached in Sons of Blackbird Mountain. The story line revolves around brewing cider and other types of alcohol, which some conservative readers may be uncomfortable about. I wasn’t offended about it. The cidery was appropriate for the plot and helped to explain the brothers’ standing in the community.

Don’t read this book on an empty stomach. At least have a cup of tea and some cookies nearby. With all the talk about homemade pies, apple butter, and stew, you’ll have a snack attack by chapter 3!

This is a wow book. I loved reading about a deaf/mute guy and how he communicates. Thor has a lot of courage even though he has first turned to drink. Sven also is courageous in that she comes to America without really knowing anyone. This made me laugh and cry. There are twists and turns along with romance and a bit of intrigue. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

I have been anxiously waiting to read this book. The author is a superb storyteller and makes the historical details precise and interesting. The three brothers are each different but blend well together to make a strong family. I would love to visit their orchard and partake in harvesting the apples. It was easy to picture the land with such vivid descriptions that the author uses. Cider was plentiful and the family made a great living but it sure was hard work.

Thor was very much my favorite character. He reminds me of a gentle giant. He is deaf and mute but the author does an exceptional job of showing how to interact with him through sign language. Thor has gotten a taste for the hard cider. At times I thought he could be dangerous, but it really was to ease the pain Thor has dealt with for so long. Will he be strong enough to give up the hard cider? The struggles he goes through are heart wrenching and I felt tears gather in my eyes for him.

Aven is quite a determined young woman. When she finds out that her aunt has passed, she realizes that now she is there in the Appalachians with three grown men and no place to go. I think I would be a bit uncomfortable around them, but soon Aven seems to settle in and start working to help the brothers. What happens when the brothers start to show their attraction to Aven? The dynamics of the time Aven and Thor spent together is worth every moment as the author sweeps readers up in a whirlwind of understanding, devotion and respect. I can't say enough about how beautiful the story is and how gifted the author is in writing a story that captures the time period in perfection.

The story does have some intrigue in it that pits brother against brother and neighbor against neighbor. There are some moments that I almost held my breath not knowing what was about to happen. The ending is pure beauty and gives us a glimpse into the next book. I will be counting down the days until I get to continue this enchanting story of brothers who hold honor with the highest regard and love that heals wounds that have been buried deep beneath the surface.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

How can I express how much I did not want this novel to end. I could have lived in it for much longer and still do in my mind. I read a lot and seldom if ever has a book reached into my soul and enfolded me into the characters' minds and hearts.as this book has done. I usually read only contemporary fiction and had never read anything by Joanne Bischof but now I want to read everything she has written. And I know this is one book that I will buy a hard copy and reread.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Sons of Blackbird Mountain is wonderful. It’s captivating and highly engaging. I absolutely love Aven and Thor — they are such wonderfully written characters and I will miss them as I move on to my next read. I especially love the subordinate characters in this novel — Ida, Cora, Al, Georgie, Tess, Jorgan, Haakon — because together they create such a wonderful and unique family. Truly, The Sons of Blackbird Mountain is a really great book.

Addiction is a mean beast, and Mrs. Bischof did an excellent and very realistic job of portraying this in her story. Thor is a wonderful hero, but he is plagued with a terrible addiction to alcohol. I won’t tell you why he suffers from this addiction because I don’t want to ruin any part of this story, but I will say that trauma, especially trauma in the earlier years of peoples’ lives, can really wreak havoc. When trauma strikes we all have our unique ways to deal. Mine is to run away. I love to get in my car and escape. For a small amount of time, I pretend like the trauma isn’t happening. If I don’t do this, I get very overwhelmed and shut down in a way that makes me virtually useless.

Unfortunately for many, dealing with trauma means escaping through a bottle or a pill or a needle. My middle brother (I have three) began drinking when he was in his teens in high school. He mostly drank at parties on the weekend, and seemed to be your typical teenage stereotype. In his early 20s, my brother became engaged to a lovely young lady. She actually became a wonderful friend of mine, too! Unfortunately, she died in a car accident. It was absolutely devastating and it destroyed my brother. He turned to the bottle hard and became a very angry drunk. My brother is 5’10, and at that time was playing soccer like every single day. He was STRONG. When he got angry drunk he was terrifying to be around. It felt like in his worst, angriest, drunkest moments he became taller and stronger — like the Hulk. It feels this way with Thor in The Sons of Blackbird Mountain. I’m not going to lie, I had some serious flashbacks while reading this book. If Thor didn’t get clean in this novel, I would have had to put the book down for good. Mrs. Bischof’s very realistic portrayal of alcohol addiction came painfully close to home for me! BUT, I applaud her for her truth telling. I applaud her for not covering it up or making it less of a deal than it actually is.

I also applaud Mrs. Bischof for choosing to make her hero deaf. It is a unique perspective that I don’t see too often in any literature. Thor is kind, caring, honest, and hardworking, but he is also struggling and broken. I very much love his need to do the right thing, especially by Aven. This made me fall for him quite a bit! My heart broke for Thor a few times, particularly as he deals with his addiction, but also in those moments when he feels less than because of his deafness and muteness. A few times, I wanted to reach in to the book and give him a hug, tell him everything was going to be okay!

I was fascinated by the use of sign language within this story, and I had no idea about the boarding schools for deaf/mute kids. Thor’s flashbacks to his boarding school reminded me a bit of Jane Eyre and Jane’s time at Lowood Institute. Another aspect I had never considered is the frustration of nighttime to a deaf person, especially a deaf person from the late 1800s when night-time light consisted of a candle or the moon. How annoying it would be to be cut out of a conversation simply because it’s dark and you can’t see faces clearly enough to read their lips. I truly had no idea, and I appreciate that Mrs. Bischof has brought this topic to my awareness. It’s an excellent reminder that humans are not one-size-fits-all, and that we need to be a bit more mindful of what others may be going through.

The Sons of Blackbird Mountain is an exquisite story that I HIGHLY recommend. If you are looking for a novel to escape into that’s fast-paced, highly engaging, well-written, eye-opening, and poignant than The Sons of Blackbird Mountain is the book for you.

I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the author via NetGalley and Celebrate Lit. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

This story is utterly captivating: The setting, the plot, the characters—but most particularly Thor. From the beginning, he had a presence on the page that kept drawing me to him, and as the story developed, he captured me, heart and soul. Early on in the story, Aunt Cora advises Aven: "Look at his eyes, his face. See him. See him and be patient…Spend but ten minutes getting to know Thor Norgaard and you'll forget he silent. You'll learn and hear things that most men don't even know how to speak." How true that was! Watching Aven’s relationship with Thor grow throughout the story was beautiful in a way that burrowed deep, made all the more poignant by the way they learned to communicate with one another. There are some seriously memorable moments between these two!

But, of course, that’s only a part of this story. The Norgaard brothers make a very comfortable living by making hard cider, but Thor’s need to break his dependence on the drink means the brothers have to rethink their entire livelihood. Add in the simmering tension between Thor and Haakon that goes much deeper than love for the same woman, and the lingering racial and political tensions between the Norgaards and their closest neighbours, and you have a powder keg just waiting to be sparked.

I absolutely adore the gentle lyricism of Joanne Bischof’s writing and the way she somehow cocoons the reader in the world of her story. She doesn’t shrink from her characters’ brokenness or their faults, but grace and hope are found in greater measure. My heart is now equal parts anticipation and dread for what the conclusion of this duology will bring to these beloved characters!

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.

Oh, books. How I love them! I'm sure you know by now that I read all the time. Most of my spare minutes, (and many of the minutes I should be doing something else) are spent buried in the pages of a good book. I've been so busy over the last couple of weeks, my reading time has been limited--and it's been tough! But I did squeeze in a new book, Sons of Blackbird Mountain, from Joanne Bischof. And by squeeze, I mean I found every spare moment possible to devour it!

In this novel Aven Norgaard has traveled to Virginia after the death of her husband in Norway. She's coming to take care of three young boys at the request of their aunt, who is a cousin of her husband. When she arrives, she discovers the "boys" aren't as young as she thought, but are grown men. Jorgan, Thorald and Haakon Norgaard (aren't those the best names?) own an apple orchard, and distill cider. Thor is the mastermind behind their brand, but he's also an alcoholic, who uses the cider to escape from his inner pain. Both Thor and Haakon want to win Aven's heart, but she finds herself drawn to the silent Thor. Thor knows he must face his greatest battle before he can hope to pursue Aven, but he's tried before and failed. Can her love encourage him to finally win against his demon? Will their love for Aven tear the brothers apart?

Sons of Blackbird Mountain is a totally unique book, because it features a main character who is deaf. I can't remember ever reading a book with a deaf main character. Even better, I thought the author did a great job of portraying Thor as strong, capable, and never held back by the fact he couldn't hear. In the beginning he's so tough and crude, and Aven is scared of him. But as she comes to know him, she sees the tenderness behind his gruffness. And her love helps to soften him up a bit!

I loved that Joann didn't gloss over how difficult life was for Thor because he was deaf. When the story was being told from his point of view, if he missed a part of the conversation, the reader does, too. But I also loved how Thor overcame his difficulties, and many times saw things that others didn't see. He was always brave, and willing to go into uncomfortable situations if need be. And his pursuing of Aven is pretty heart-melting.

At first I thought Aven was going to be an annoying character. (Sorry!) But she turned out to be strong and willing to work. I loved that she didn't sit idly by and wait for Thor. She showed him her interest, even when she wasn't sure he returned it. He wanted her to stay away during his detox, but her reaction to him when he was in need was one of the best parts of the book. (The best part being his reaction when she was in need, but you'll have to read it to know!) While Haakon might have been the obvious choice, she pursued the one she loved, and that to me is a great heroine! Thor and Aven will turn all your insides to mush--but in a good way!

I'm always drawn to books written about the Appalachian region, and this one does it justice. The Norwegian names and foods aren't what you'd expect to read about in a book set in Virginia, but somehow it fits. I love all the descriptions of the scenery. I want to go swimming and pick blackberries and apples, and sit in a big chair in the great room. A perfect book always makes me want to be there, while making me feel like I already am.

Sons of Blackbird Mountain is a captivating story, and an un-putdownable read. I was hooked from the first page. I stayed up way too late to finish that last page! I think you'll find this story to be unique from anything you've read before. It's one that I definitely hope to re-read in the future, and I cannot wait to read the next installment in this series.

You can order your copy of Sons of Blackbird Mountain here.



I received a copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links.

Joanne Bischof blew me away with her book, "The Lady and the Lionheart." I loved it! Her newest release, "Sons of Blackbird Mountain," has got me all shook up...in a good way. The depth of story and characters is breathtaking. It's one of those books that I want to pick up and read again (and I rarely reread books). There is also a lot happening in the plot, but it's all intertwined in a way that makes it realistic. The romantic tension was on point, accentuated by the vulnerability in both the hero and heroine. But wow...Bischof knows how to write a vulnerable hero.
Thor Norgaard. My heart beat a little faster when he came to life on these pages. He is so strong and masculine, yet his vulnerability makes him ultra swoonworthy. He is deaf, but we get to hear his voice through the words on the page. Aven is also vulnerable as she arrives in a place that is nothing that she expected. Thor shows her what it means to have value and persevere through difficult circumstances.
This book tackles so many important issues: disabilities, addiction, prejudice, abuse...to name a few. Joanne addresses these in such an honest, realistic way. Woven through is faith in God and dependence on Him to overcome. I can't even accurately express how phenomenal this book is.
Personal takeaway...No problem is too great for a great God.
**I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. The opinions expressed are my own.**

The ability to transport a reader to a time and place, to immerse them in a family so thoroughly that they become real, is a gift God’s given Joanne Bischof. Even more impressive is the way she puts readers in the head of a man who can’t communicate like most.

In the first book of her Blackbird Mountain series, we are introduced to the Norgaard brothers. Three men who make a living brewing something that haunted Aven’s marriage with the brothers; cousin.

Both of the younger brothers, Haakon and Thor, have demons they battle, but they approach them differently. Thor is a big, strong hero with a heart of gold when it comes to Aven. He’s willing to do the hard things—fight those demons, learn new things, protect with this life—for the woman who has captured his heart.
Aven is enveloped into the family, but it’s the big, quiet Thor who both calls to her heart and offers her the promise and safety of home.

Bischof portrays life in late 19th century Appalachia—complete with feuds and social issues—combined with the depth of characterization make this worth the read alone. Then she goes and adds the detailed descriptions of the Norgaard farm and the scenery that I could almost see (and taste) to once again confirm why this author’s stories are so loved (if you need proof of that, just check out the 100+ Goodreads reviews for Sons of Blackbird Mountain).

This beautiful story of love conquering life’s biggest challenges is one you definitely need to read as soon as you can fit it into your TBR pile (you might want to slip it to the top)! A memorable portrayal of I Corinthians 13:7: Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Now, my only question is How long do I have to wait until the next book?

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Oh, readers...Prepare your heart for this one. Sons of Blackbird Mountain is a story that you will want to savor. Let the words sink into your soul and let them move you. Because they will...

I have never seen American Sign Language portrayed so precise as I have in this book. Having been raised by an interpreter for the Deaf, I have been immersed in the language and the culture my whole life. I say "Brava!" to Joanne Bischof for not only taking on this astounding task, but accomplishing it successfully and with excellence.

I can't get this story out of my heart or my head. Thor's struggles and his strength. His love and his protectiveness. Aven is the sister of my heart. With her compassion, empathy, understanding, and even her fears...she is a beautiful woman inside and out. I want to live in this story with them. I want to walk the orchard. Make a pie in Ida's kitchen. Go swimming...Ok, you have to read the story to understand...And through it all, watching Thor and Aven find their strength, not in each other alone, but in God. Learning to lean on HIM to provide. Letting HIS strength guide and direct their paths. And to show HIS love to those around them, even if they are the "enemy".


You all know how much I love The Lady and the Lionheart, well...Thor is sure giving Charlie a run for his money. I think my heart might explode with all the feelings and emotions emitted by these two stories and heroes.

Joanne Bischof continues to expand the boundaries of Christian Fiction. With passion, tension, conflict, and romance we are drawn into the world of Aven and the Norgaard brothers.

I received a complimentary copy of Sons of Blackbird Mountain from the publisher through Book Look. I also received an ebook copy through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

This was a beautifully written book. I loved the fact the main hero Thor was deaf. Such a unique and wonderful dynamic to the story. Aven had to hone in on different communication skills since she did not know sign language. Getting to know someone with that type of challenges had to be difficult. There were so many challenges within this book. And the author did a beautiful job with them. The beauty written and emotions were felt and tears surfaced a time or two. Definitely a must read and the author is on my must read every book published list now. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. All opinions stated are my own.

This book is absolutely mesmerizing from beginning to end! Once I started reading it I found it impossible to tear myself away from this heartwarming Christian drama about three Norwegian siblings who take in the young widow of their deceased cousin. Aven has a backbone of steel after surviving a workhouse in Ireland but she has much to learn about life in America and much to learn about Jorgan, Thor and Haakon, the three strapping Norse men who make their living growing apples on Blackbird Mountain. This book has everything I love about reading Christian fiction. A richly detailed story with an entire cast of sympathetic characters who face many trials and tribulations as they learn to place their lives in the hands of God. I can’t wait to read the rest of this series and more of the inspirational writing of this wonderful author. I read a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley and all opinions expressed in my voluntary review are completely my own.

This is the first book I've read by Joanne Bischof and what an introduction it was!
I've read massive amounts of historical fiction books in my lifetime but this one is unlike any I've read before. The author takes us inside the head of the main male character, Thor. Now Thor is one of the three brothers Aven came over from Norway to take care of. She thought the brother's were children in need of care. Upon arriving from her voyage across the ocean she sees they are grown men living in rural 19th century Appalachia. Thor is the complex one, his family runs a hard cider liquor business and he is an alcoholic and deaf as well. He is able to sign but not able to speak and feels alienated and alone,full of frustration about not being able to express himself fully. Alcohol changes who he is when he is under the influence and he doesn't like who he has become. He is a very complex man. The struggle is real as he battles the demons inside him to give up alcohol. Aven makes every effort she can to show Thor she cares as she sees the battles raging inside of him alcoholism,depression,loneliness,frustration and the effort to make his wants and needs known.
The bond between the three brothers is touching and real. The three would do anything for each other and do. Will this broken man find wholeness and healing or will hard drink win the battle raging within him? What about Aven, two men desire to be her one and only, Thor the one who has cast his spell upon her in a quiet efficient way or Haakon, who is bold and passionate? Will her being there cause an irreparable rift between the brothers? This book goes where other Christian historical novels dare not to go. It's in your face,realistic,a breakthrough and I loved it! I have a lot of catching up as I now need to read all of the rest of this author's books!
Pub Date 03 Jul 2018
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson--FICTION through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.