Love Amid the Ashes

Love Amid the Ashes by Mesu Andrews tells the story of Job and Dinah and all of the difficulties that they experienced in their lives. After Dinah faced the murder of her first husband, who her family did not recognize, she was hidden away with little hope of finding love. After becoming betrothed to Job’s son, her life, and that of Job’s, was completely altered. Although Job faithfully served God his whole life, he begins to find everything he worked hardest for taken from him. His servants and animals are killed in an attack, his children are killed when their home collapses, his health declines, and his home is destroyed. Job must choose whether to continue to rely on God or blame Him for all of his difficulties. Throughout these issues, Dinah stays by Job’s side and nurses him back to health while their feelings for one another begin to grow.

I enjoyed this book, because I honestly don’t remember hearing any Bible stories about Dinah, the sister of Joseph. I also liked how the book began each chapter with a Bible verse; the format helped me understand what was written in the Bible Verses. The only problem I had with the book, was that I had some difficulty following some of the names in the book. I think this wouldn’t have been as troublesome if I had been more familiar with the story of Job and Dinah. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and liked the overarching theme of praising and trusting in God even in your most difficult circumstances. If Job, who lost everything he held most dear, was able to remain faithful and continue to rely upon God, everyone should be able to keep their faith despite whatever difficulties they may face.

Available March 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.