Scars of the Revolution by Megan Soja is another beautiful installment in her Harbor of Spies series. Characters mentioned in the first two novels, Libby and Isaac, get their own complicated romance in this intriguing tale. A childhood admiration that turned into years of pining is just one layer of the plot’s multifaceted complexity.

The raw, unbridled emotion coursing through events and each character’s responses illuminated Libby and Isaac in such intimate ways while also shedding light on that tumultuous historical period. A beautiful weaving of scripture turns the narrative tapestry vibrant with realistic dilemmas that challenge faith both then and now. Mrs. Abbott, an inspirational mother, easily became a beloved character. Most of my favorite quotes were from her. Rich three-dimensional characterizations also turn Isaac and Libby into literary friends not easily forgotten.

The ravages of war, both geographically and emotionally, wedge obstacles threatening personal relationships while also testing faith throughout the chapters. This book does not shy away from the moral dilemmas, no matter which side of the revolution a person finds themselves on. The clash of personal conviction, emotional ties, and authoritative orders truly comes through in ways that make your heart ache.

In the end, this book shines with a reminder of God’s sovereignty and the peace of knowing He uses all things for his good. As is typical with the other books in this series, plenty of spiritual takeaways turn this story into a true treasure. Its ending left me feeling more than entertained. The story reminded me patriotically to appreciate the sacrifices made long before my birth. Definitely a gem for fans of historical romance.

I received a complimentary copy from the author but was not required to leave a review. All opinions expressed are my own. Click on the book cover for purchase link.

Final Thoughts from Megan

One of the things I love about reading and writing Christian fiction, is being able to see God’s truth woven into the story. Even though the characters and their experiences are fictional, the truth of who God is and how He loves us is very real.

In Scars of the Revolution, my heroine, Libby Caldwell, wrestles with understanding God’s goodness in the face of loss and hardship. Libby is grieving the death of her beloved father, while also facing the siege of her hometown and the worsening fight between the Patriot colonists and the British Army stationed in Boston. Her growing love for one of the British officers further complicates matters, and makes it hard for her to discern what God is doing in her life.

Her questions and struggles reflect much of my own faith journey. When my husband and I lost our first baby just after birth, I spent months trying to reconcile what I thought I knew of God with the tragic loss we had experienced. I wasn’t angry at God, but I was utterly confused as to how to understand His goodness in the midst of something that felt anything but good.

It wasn’t easy, but when I look back now, I see how God led me through my grief into a deeper understand of His character and a stronger reliance upon Him. I can truthfully say, as Libby’s mother does in Scars of the Revolution, that it was “in the hardest times, when God has seemed utterly incomprehensible, that my faith has grown the most.”

If you have ever walked through a painful experience that made you struggle to understand God’s purpose or even doubt His love, I hope that Libby’s journey will inspire your own faith. Or maybe your experience is more like that of my hero, Isaac Harrison, whose life has revolved around duty for so long, that it is hard for him to comprehend a God who freely gives His love and forgiveness, even when we don’t deserve or cannot earn it. I won’t give any spoilers as to how Isaac’s understanding grows and changes, but I hope you’ll be encouraged when you read it.

Libby and Isaac’s story is one of love against all odds, set against the backdrop of the Battle of Bunker Hill and a complex web of espionage. But it is also a story of faith in the God who is able to turn our scars into something beautiful. I pray you will find that truth in the pages of Scars of the Revolution.