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Valley of Decision


One of my favorite places to read is during subway trips. I have a stack of books -- yes, actual books -- on a book case in my entryway and very often I take one along for a subway trip. People who aren't subway regulars may think the subway is a noisy place to read and difficult to concentrate, but after forty years of regular subway riding I've learned to block out distractions.

Last week "Valley of Decision,"  by Lynne Gentry was on the top of the stack of books and I chose it for a longish subway trip. I settled in to my seat, opened the book and somewhere between Brooklyn and Manhattan a thought came to me. It was no longer 2015 and I was no longer on a subway train beneath New York City. Lynne Gentry had taken me to Third Century ancient Carthage and I was once again in the company of Dr. Lisbeth Hastings, her family and the Christian community of Carthage. I first met Lisbeth in earlier books of the Carthage Chronicles and was eager to know what happened to her, her husband, daughter and the people of Carthage. On a historical level we know what happens to the Christian Church and to her husband, based on the man who will become St. Cyprian. But this was my opportunity to follow Lisbeth's journey from the Twenty-First century to Carthage.

From the moments of my subway trip to the last pages of "Valley of Decision" I was in Carthage. Ancient History is not usually my favorite period to read about, but the Carthage Chronicles are making me rethink this. I was especially interested the amount of historical detail and description of the Christian community in its early days. It's a story of love, family and faith with a fascinating setting. I'm grateful to the Litfuse Group for the opportunity to read "Valley of Decision."

What are you reading these days?

 I'm having a mellow Tuesday. I do have my class tonight and have a couple of errands to run, but I'm doing the things I need to get done at a slow pace. I'm enjoying the warmer weather -- hard to believe it's November -- and the treat of not needing gloves.

As ever, thanks for visiting and have a terrific Tuesday.

Please note: I received a copy of "Valley of Decision" as a review copy from the Litfuse Group, but the opinions are all mine. 

10 comments

Nellie said...

This is a great thing to do on a subway journey! I am currently reading The Well Women by Ladine Housholder. I would make better progress if I would stay off technology.:-)

Linda said...

I am currently reading (being funny) my World History text (which we just finished Greek History) and working on reading text about WWI for European History. But, in all seriousness, just the textbooks, friend, just the textbooks, sigh. Blessings

~Lavender Dreamer~ said...

It sounds like such a good idea and makes the time go fast. I read in the dentist office this week...but it was hard to concentrate! heehee! Enjoy your week and the mild weather! Hugs, Diane

I'm mostly known as 'MA' said...

November is treating us to some wonderful weather too.

Anne Payne said...

Fabulous review! I've heard nothing but praise for Lynne's books. I'm sort of stagnant in my reading. It's taking me a long time to finish any book right now. So much going on with this move to a new state. I just now have a little breathing room and I've been using it to dig deeper into my morning devotions. So I guess I am reading my Bible and The Valley of Vision. :-)

Theresa said...

Sounds like the perfect way to spend a day:) Enjoy your book dear friend, HUGS!

Starting Over, Accepting Changes - Maybe said...

Having a book on a train makes the trip more enjoyable and seem quicker. Sometimes, though, with a very good book, the ride is not long enough.

Annesphamily said...

Hi Carol, I love watching people on the subway but I don't get to use it regularly like you do. I love people watching! I just told my hubby I want some time to sit and read. I have a series of older books I am trying to get through. I just sent my Secret Sister gift via amazon prime. It was so easy to do. Glad that is off my plate. Years ago when I was in MaryKay I learned to write my daily chores and delights on a colorful note that says things I have to do today. Makes my life so easy. I am old fashioned with paper and pens ! I still do it today and it helps keep me organized and not get off track too much!
Have a beautiful day and enjoy that book! I hear a little snow is heading my way!

Hugs, Anne

Deanna Rabe - Creekside Cottage Blog said...

I'm reading The Doomsday Book by Connie Willis, based on the recommendation of a good friend.

Your description of this book makes me think this will go on my 'to read' list! Sounds so interesting!

Deanna

Melinda said...

I will always have "real" books.
I love to read and I like reading an actual book.
I can't read if I am moving though.

Sounds like an interesting read.

M : )