I thoroughly enjoyed this book which is marked as an Advent devotional but can be read at any time. Orr-Ewing presents a picture of Mary that isn't the one we're often presented in the church. This is a teen, who having being blessed with the honour ( a scary one at that) of giving birth to Jesus, steps into her role with courage and surrender.

Orr-Ewing shares 25 devotions, most using the words of Luke's message and especially each line of Mary's Magnificat, to highlight traits of Mary's faith, reflections on the Advent story and wisdom for us to adopt to both better experience Advent and grow in our faith. It's excellent and I learnt much about Mary.

As evidenced by Mary encouraging Jesus to step into his ministry at the wedding in Cana and being the only one present at both His birth and death, she has a rare insight into the incarnate God which we can learn from. She is also clearly a humble leader who is able to encourage and guide others.

Each devotion ends with a prayer, many of which are taken from the Common Book of Prayer.

Attached to each devotion is a photo of a different painting that relates to that day's message. Most of the paintings are hanging in major art galleries around the world. Orr-Ewing explains the inspiration for the painting and its relevance. This is a lovely added extra to the devotions as I was unfamiliar with many of the paintings.

I can see myself reading this again as I enjoyed it immensely.

I was fortunate to receive an early ebook copy of the book from the publisher via Net Galley but this has had no influence on my review.

This book offers reflection through both word and art. It features artwork done of Mary, the mother of Jesus throughout history. Through prayers of the church (primarily taken from the Book of Common Prayer) and reflections written from the perspective of Mary, this makes an excellent companion for the advent season.