Newton and Polly : a Novel of Amazing Grace

GIVEAWAY

HEDLUND, POLLY
NEWTON AND POLLY : A NOVEL OF AMAZING GRACE

Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now am found

Now remembered as the author of the world's most famous hymn, in the mid-eighteenth century as England and France stand on the brink of war, John Newton is a young sailor wandering aimlessly through life. His only duty is to report to his ship and avoid disgracing his father -- until the night he hears Polly Catlett's enchanting voice, caroling. He's immediately smitten and determined to win her affection.

An intense connection quickly forms between the two, but John's reckless spirit and disregard for the Christian life are concerns for the responsible, devout Polly. When an ill-fated stop at a tavern leaves John imprisoned and bound, Polly must choose to stand by his side or walk out of his life forever. Will she forfeit her future for the man she loves?

Step back through the pages of history, to uncover the true love story behind a song that continues to stir the hearts and ignite the faith of millions around the globe.

My Review:

Powerful. Intense. Awe-inspiring. All the more so because this is real life! Hedlund captures the spirit of Amazing Grace in the lives of John and Polly. Lifting doubt to faith, despair to hope in an emotional biography that reads truer than fiction.

I've always been immensely moved by this beloved hymn and I knew a little bit of the background around its conception but after reading this novel....wow -- I don't know if I have the words to convey my emotions. Amazing grace indeed.

One of the things that really struck me was the role Polly played in John's life. It had me wondering if Amazing Grace would ever have been written without her influence. She was a constant, steady beacon of faith beckoning John away from his life of degradation. The Spirit worked within her to bring him back to the fold. I'm not sure he would have ever made the changes he did without her steadfast encouragement. Such a powerful redemption story. And encouraging for those who stand in the gap for people they love in these modern times.

Hedlund's inspired words deliver a transforming love story that changed history and still touches us all.

Giveaway Opportunity:

 If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Newton and Polly : a Novel of Amazing Grace please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoread AT yahoo DOT ca. If you post a comment and add your email address please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so it's easier for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday March 5 2017.  Offer open to international readers. Good luck!