Book Review:: Here Burns My Candle by Liz Curtis Higgs + Giveaway!

Having led Bad Girls of the Bible studies for years, it was fun to actually dig into one of original “former bad girl’s” historical fiction novels, Here Burns My Candle, part of Higgs popular Scotland series.  Having already retold the stories of the matriarchs of Genesis (Sarah, Rebekah, and Rachel/Leah), Higgs now turns her eyes to the beloved story of Ruth and Naomi.

Dowager Lady Marjory Kerr is quite concerned about appearances as a socialite in 18th Century Scotland, especially when her son, Donald, dares to marry not only a commoner, but a Highlander as well.  The setting of the story takes place during the 1745-1746 assault on Edinburgh’s Lowlands by Highlander Prince Charlie.  Born in the Highlands of Scotland, Lady Elisabeth Kerr believes Prince Charlie, not an English monarch, to be Scotland’s true king—sentiments which not only risk the Kerr family’s title and wealth, but also offend Dowager Kerr.  Through loss, heartache, and redemption, Marjory and Elisabeth come to rely on one another.

Admittedly, I was a huge fan of Higgs before I read Here Burns My Candle.  Still, I was greatly impressed by how Higgs commands the turbulent history of Scotland’s past, throws in authentic Scottish dialect (glossary in back of book is helpful), and captures the thoughts of characters stuck in various calamities that life presents—an unfaithful husband, a wife who can never please her mother-in-law, a sickly son, a meddling mother—all these characters are rich and realistic.  At times the plot slows down a little too much, but that is a only a minor irritation in a work embroidered with historical detail.

Here Burns My Candle is a fine addition to Liz Curtis Higgs’ Scottish Lowland series, and would make a thrilling addition to any historical fiction lover’s reading list!

Because WaterBrook Multnomah is awesome, they have given Backseat Writer ONE copy of HERE BURNS MY CANDLE as a giveaway to readers.  Giveway runs through April 1 at 11:59 PM.  Winner will be announced on April 2. Giveaway open to U.S. residents only.

To enter, simply leave a comment below.  If you want extra entries, go for it.  Just be sure to leave a separate comment for each and every thing you do (fan Backseat Writer on Facebook, Tweet, regular follower, and so on.  If you think of it, I’ll probably accept it.)  Good luck.

This was book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah.

CymLowell

**Don’t forget to enter my Big 3-0  Bash Stash giveaway for your chance to win over 30 books, CDs & more!  Enter now.**

0 thoughts on “Book Review:: Here Burns My Candle by Liz Curtis Higgs + Giveaway!

  1. Hey! Please enter me in this giveaway! I’m really looking forward to reading this book.

    I don’t know if this counts as an extra entry, but I’m posting about this giveaway on my blog. (You sent me the info for Christian Book Giveaways)

    Thanks!

    booklovercb[at]yahoo[dot]com

    Thanks for posting it, Carmen! Of course it counts as an extra entry!–Amy

  2. I would LOVE to win this book! I’ve read Liz’s “Thorn” series several times, and have to say that “Thorn” is my favorite book of all time. Eager to see how “Candle” compares. Thanks for the opportunity to win!

  3. Our ladies’ group has used the Bad Girls series for Bible studies also and I think they’re great. I’m looking forward to reading Liz’s fiction and appreciate your giveaway.

    cjarvis [at] bellsouth [dot] net

  4. Her book has been popping up everywhere recently! I really want to read it.

    Great review, and thanks for the giveaway!

    michellemsherman(at)gmail(dot)com

  5. Please enter me in your giveaway. I so want to read this book. Thank you for the opportunity.

    Smiles & Blessings,
    Cindy W

    countrybear52[at]yahoo[dot]com

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