A woman meant to serve, a child in the dark, a man standing apart—can these three souls embrace a God with new plans for them?
On a small Kansas farm, Christina Willems lovingly shepherds a group of poor and displaced individuals who count on her leadership and have come to see the Brambleville Asylum for the Poor as their home. But when a fire breaks out in the kitchen leaving the house uninhabitable, she must scramble to find shelter for all in her care, scattering her dear “family.”
With no other options, Christina is forced to approach Levi Jonnson, a reclusive mill owner, to take in a young blind boy named Tommy Kilgore. Levi agrees with reluctance but finds himself surprised by the bond that quickly grows between him and Tommy. As obstacles to repairing the farm pile up against Christina, she begins to question her leadership ability and wonders if she can fulfill the mission to which she's dedicated her life. And when an old adversary challenges Christina, will she find an unlikely ally—or more—in the aloof Levi? Can Levi reconcile with the rejection that led to his hermit-like existence and open his heart and life to something more, especially a relationship with a loving God?
What Once Was Lost by Kim Sawyer was a heartwarming historical novel with a touch of romance. While I would have enjoyed more romance between Christina and Levi I loved that it was more about the growth of each character spiritually. The relationship between Tommy and Levi was touching and I loved seeing how they both change as well as Cora and Christina. Each character Kim brought to life made me fall deeper in love with this book and you will too.
5 out of 5. This Afternoon Snack is one you won't want to miss.
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.
