Every year at this time, we remember the sacrifices that our forefathers made for our freedom. It is a time that has been romanticized in films and books. Many Revolutionary War novels that I have read tend to gloss over the suffering that many of the soldiers endured. However, in the novel, The Messenger, author Sir Mitchell doesn’t hid the darkness of war amidst the beauty of her story.

Hannah Sutherland is torn between family and faith during the British occupation of Philadelphia. Her twin brother has abandoned  their peaceful Quaker faith and joined the Colonial army. When he is imprisoned, she can feel his suffering and knows she must somehow help him. Her only chance is Jeremiah Jones, a spy who hope to rescue men from the very jail her brother lies in.

It was interesting to see another viewpoint of the war. Being that the Quakers were pacifists, they didn’t get involved in the war or with any of the soldiers. I found it sad that they also let this keep them from helping the prisoners. I didn’t like that Hannah had to go against her family and church to help her brother. The book portrayed her inner struggle very well. However, I would have liked more developed characters. I felt like I needed to know more about Jeremiah Jones and Hannah’s brother. Overall, the book was enjoyable.

Disclosure: I received a copy of the book gratis from Bethany House for review purposes. All opinions are my own.