While it is true that we can worship the Almighty with or without the church or clergy, I wonder if a church is meant for even more than worship. At its best, it acts as the hub of a community, lifting standards of behavior, providing means of help and support. The problem of Nantucketers, is that we have not seen many examples of a church at its best, and therefore, we reject it all.

I very much appreciated the relationships of this community in historical Nantucket. The relationship between sisters, mother, friend, and a husband coming back home to meet his 6 year old twins.

Sisters Jane and Daphne were years apart in age. They were close and upon the death of her sister when her husband Ren had come home from sea, changed everything. A parallel narration from a diary of 17th Century Mary Coffin and how it came to give comfort to Daphne (living in the 19th century) as she took on the role in helping Ren adjust to being a father and widower. There are many moving parts in their story. Slavery and the churches role. The loyalty of a sister. A grieving husband new to fatherhood and his search for justice for the untimely death of his wife. However, Daphne's strong character in faith and being a friend is striking and is what moves the prose. She sees a need and she meets it. She has difficult people that she works around and her growing feelings for her brother in law.

Many lessons of faith from a different time that we can learn in this time with characters that stay with you. Highly recommend.

A special thank you to Revell and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.

This novel covers some very interesting historical events/issues in the Quaker Community on Nantucket Island in 19th century (and in less extent via diary passages from 17th century). The main motive covers the issues of loyalty, forgiveness and the second chances while touching upon the questions of racism (even in this community) and the drug abuse (laudanum), even.

The historical issues are based on the real events (or at least the research is quite thorough - of course, there is some imaginative writing at play, which is OK in fiction). It is very interesting to know how the thinking and values has evolved during the times!

As for the novel itself - my honest review is that while I have enjoyed some characters (Daphne's maturity and sassiness make her a quite likable heroine!) and the general openness of the novel and the willingness to pose the tough questions - that there also is a predictability at play which I like less.

But overall this was a pleasant read with many enlightening moments.

Historical Christian fiction is my all time favorite genre and Author Suzanne Woods Fisher is one of my favorite authors in this category. She writes such beautiful stories that are rich in historical facts.

I love this book! It had absolutely everything I love. History, romance, Christian faith, characters that are easy to connect with.

We all have an idea or plan of how we want our life to go, but circumstances of life sometimes turn everything upside down and we find ourself on a new path. This story is so relatable. I think most everyone can relate to those circumstances.

Six long years ago, Captain Reynolds Macy sailed away from his bride, looking forward to the day when he would return to Nantucket Island with a ship's hold full of whale oil. But when that momentous day finally arrives, Ren soon discovers that everything has changed in his absence. Everything.

Unlike most islanders, bold and spirited Daphne Coffin doesn't defer to Ren as an authoritative whalemaster, but sees through his aloofness to the aching heart beneath. She encourage him to return to his Quaker roots and "mind theLight" finding solace in God and community. As Ren becomes the man she believes him to be honarable, wise, faithful-she finds herself falling in love with him.

But how can she, when her heart is spoken for?

***Thanks to Revell Reads for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Minding the Light is a beautiful, touching story full of moments of strife, love, and soul searching. Many times, I was intrigued by plot turns that left me hoping for more.

What I appreciate most of the story was the obvious attention to historical details and facts about the time. It was clear Ms. Fisher spent many hours doing research, as authors should.

There were many subplots that were gripping as well. (I can’t give too much away, but I am sure you will be cheering for some characters while being angry at other characters.) Many times I recall relating to Captain Macy’s view point on faith more than not. He had his faults, but was not afraid to hide from Friends. In fact, he stood against religious hypocrisy and I was all for it!

**Thank you CelebrateLit Publicity for making it possible to read and review this touching story.

Minding the Light: fiction review
July 30, 2018 No Comments

It’s not often that I utilize a digital book. I just prefer to have the book in my hands. That being said, after reading Phoebe’s Light the first in the Nantucket Legacy and so thoroughly enjoying it I just couldn’t say no when the format offered to me was digital. Read my review of Phoebe’s Light here. Boy am I so glad I didn’t pass this one up. I’ll be honest, I enjoyed Phoebe’s Light by Suzanne Woods Fisher enough to finish the book and even to want to continue with the series but I felt it had a slow start. That being said I am so glad I enjoyed the book as a whole because Minding the Light is even better.

The first thing I love is that I was immediately drawn into the story. No slow start here. And amazingly I felt invested in the story from page one. I guess that is the joy of a series and why they are some of my favorites. I also feel like since I got a sense for the Quaker community and whaling culture in the last book the learning curve was less steep. Additionally I adore the double storyline taking place in two time periods.


I also highly recommend the series on audiobook!
I also love that while the main story line is taking place in the 19th century years after Phoebe’s life, the main character of book one, the secondary story line of Mary Coffin Starbuck told through the pages of her journal (set in 1662) has just picked right up where we left off. What a cool and interesting way to do it! But I really shouldn’t expect less from Fisher as she is also willing to tackle so many challenging topics like racism, bigotry, the serious problems even Quakers faced with addiction (addiction does not discriminate), and even the hypocrisy within faith communities. I think it gives us a great opportunity to look at ourselves, and the history of our faith. She explores community, church, and also self-responsibilty. Not only was the book entertaining but it was also edifying!

I’ve been pondering that questions all day, and I think I have an answer for him. While it is true that we can worship the Almighty with or without church or clergy, I wonder if a church is meant for even more than worship. At its best, it acts as the hub of a community, lifting standards of behavior, providing a means of help and support. The problem of Nantucketers, I suppose, is that we have not seen many examples of a church at its best, and therefore, we reject it all.

I found myself fully invested in multiple characters, not wanting to put the book down. Ultimately I am very thankful that on these gorgeous summer days we are having I always have my phone with me since it’s in digital format and who leaves their phone at home… ever! Not me. I encourage you to grab the book in a format that is fitting for the summer season, and be sure to grab Phoebe’s Light while you are at it. That is to say if you haven’t already, because this is one great series that leaves me wanting more.

Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a copy of the book, all these opinions are my own; and I was not required to give a favorable review.

I am so enjoying this Nantucket Legacy series by Fisher, especially due to the (fictional) journal entries from (not fictional) Mary Coffin Starbuck that are interspersed throughout each novel. Mary was an integral figure in Nantucket history, and I love seeing the island’s earliest days (17th century) through her eyes. It’s fascinating to see how Nantucket came to be, to glimpse its earliest days as well as what it has become a couple hundred years later (19th century) and her great-great-great granddaughter’s story.

Speaking of whom… Daphne is a kind, compassionate heroine who is perhaps stronger than she realizes. Or at least stronger than she lets on. In the face of blatant hypocrisy close to home and more subtle hypocrisy among her peers and elders, Daphne holds true to what she believes. As it pertains to her own heart and as it pertains to the intrinsic value of all humans, no matter the color of their skin or their origin. I suspect, had I lived in the 19th century or she lived in modern times, Daphne and I would have become great friends.

Ren is a dashing sea captain who comes home to face great surprises – and great grief. The road ahead is not an easy one for Ren, and it will cost him more than he expects. Yet, watching his transformation throughout the course of the book was inspiring. He must deal with the same hypocrisy as Daphne, yet instead of letting it make him stronger (as Daphne has done) he has allowed it to sour his opinion of the Quaker faith. I admit that there is much i don’t understand about the Quaker faith, much that gives me pause. Still, my husband has Quaker roots in his not-so-distant family tree and so I am always eager to learn more about what shaped his mother’s family.

Bottom Line: One thing I learn from reading historical fiction is that there really is nothing new under the sun. The circumstances may be vastly different, and the day-to-day life may alter considerably from one generation to the next. But some things remain ever true: The human heart is sinful; religious people sin too; Jesus is the Light of the World; Grace is amazing. In Minding the Light, we see all of the above, plus a richly-detailed history so vividly told that you can hear the sea gulls in the air, the waves lapping against the shore, the bustle of people at the wharf, and the bells ringing through the town. Engaging characters and a compelling history combine with all I’ve already mentioned to deliver a story that you won’t want to put down!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

f you are wanting a cookie cutter Christian romance, keep looking. This book will keep you guessing and leave you wanting more of the story. Minding the Light is the 2nd book in a series, however I did not read the first book in the series and I was able to read and enjoy this book without being lost. Suzanne Woods Fisher has done a wonderful job of bringing historical Nantucket and the whaling community to life for her readers. The book also offered a small glimpse into the Quakers who lived on the Island. It also gives you the context for some common sayings like "Feeling Blue". The main character, Daphne's love for her family and her spirit have you cheering from her from first page to last. Fisher doesn't shy away from heavy topics, including racism, and how it persisted over the centuries even among the Quakers.
This book contains a dual timeline, using a diary to go back in time. I feel that the diary portion of the book is rushed and missing an great opportunity to share more of Mary's story. The book also leaves several "unfinished" story lines that have me waiting to see if and how they are resolved in the third book in the series..


I received an advance copy of this book, all views are my own and in no way influenced by this

This is the second book in the Nantucket Legacy series. I was super excited to read this book, since I loved the first one so much. This book features a dual time line, which is not hard to follow at all. Ms. Fischer has a writing style all of her own. I love Daphne and the Captain. Daphne is a very likable character. She was by far my favorite in the series so far. I loved learning all the historical facts in this book. The author did great research. I love books that I am able to learn something while I am reading. The storytelling in this book captivated me. Great characters, Intriguing storyline, another grand slam for Ms. Fischer. I look forward to reading more of the series.

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit Blogging Program, All thoughts are my own

Suzanne Woods Fisher continues her Nantucket Legacy series that began with Phoebe’s Light with her newest release, Minding the Light. As the story delves more into Nantucket Island and whaling history, its intriguing characters, complex array of emotions, and important thread of faith shine through a compelling plot. I’m glad that, once again, Fisher did not disappoint me with her new book—the characters and their struggles captured my attention easily and I enjoyed their story immensely. It’s a sweet read for readers in need of some inspirational historical fiction, especially those who enjoyed the previous book, so be sure to check it out now.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

After six years as a captain of a whaling ship, Ren has left the sea behind and has returned home. Did he return to life as it was when he left six years ago? Not a chance. Ren was definitely not ready for other changes in the lives of his family, or the changes in Nantucket. What will happen to the captain and his family now that he is finally home.

This second story in the Nantucket series has a lot of sadness, as well as dealing with so many different issues and situations. There are many twists and turns that keep the reader guessing at what is happening next. I like that the author deals with such issues as the secrets and deceit, hypocrisy, vengeance as well as substance abuse and racism, so many real life difficult situations. But Ms. Fisher does an amazing job of weaving all of these issues together, along with forgiveness and grace through a merciful God.

The duel story was interesting and fascinating. It was fun reading about the Nantucket life in the 17th century and compare it to the 19th century Nantucket lifestyle. Again Ms. Fisher does an amazing job of weaving the history of these two centuries with historical details so vivid that I felt like I had been right there in the realistic lives of these characters. There’s another Nantucket book coming and I can wait to read it!

I highly recommend this book to anyone. This is a nice clean book that is chunked full of history and enough events throughout that it will keep you entertained for hours. A copy of this book was provided by Celebration Lit Tours and NetGalley for me to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are mine only.

Once again I was mesmerized by the journal entries from Mary, godmother of Nantucket. Some of the questions I had from book one were answered, and I found out so much more about Mary. Although I did enjoy the story line itself, reading these journal entries were really my favorite part of the book. I kind of wish that we might have an entire novel about Mary, but I will settle for the journal entries for now.

This second installment in the Nantucket Legacy series was more emotional for me. The first half of the book especially, I felt like I was right there with Daphne, feeling and living every emotion. Daphne's character went through a lot in this book, and truly had to grow whether she wanted to or not due to her circumstances. Although I wasn't too sure about the union that was coming between her and a beau, I have to say that by the end the author had me convinced. Let me say that it was no easy task, but little by little she kind of broke down the walls of my thoughts and showed me why these two needed to be together. I didn't expect to change my mind - usually when I get hooked on thoughts about the characters there is no changing for me. But kudos to Suzanne for steering me down a different thought path!

Once again Suzanne Woods Fisher adds such attention to detail in her novel that you feel swept back in time. With two characters that are stuck in unlikely circumstances, she shows the power of trusting the Lord, and working through whatever it is life throws at you. Seeing Ren adapt to his children was such a treat. It really made me think of all our service men who may be going through something similar, and I bet they may act the same way. I will say this about Ren though, he had a big heart, even if he struggled to show it now and then. Historic fans will love the latest installment of a heartwarming series. I cannot wait to see what lies ahead for Mary's journals and the characters.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

What about Minding the Light Did I Love & Hate
What did I love?
So many things. Daphne stole my heart with her feisty spirit, her gentle ways, and the fierce love she had for everyone in her life. She taught me much about forgiveness while holding fast to what is right.

I loved that Suzanne Woods Fisher wasn’t afraid to tackle the difficult subjects. Racism, bigotry, hypocrisy, foolish addiction, But more than that, I love that she tackled them with equal parts of forthright honesty and gentle compassion.

One of the most wonderful parts was the continuity of story. Not just the beautiful journal entries we’ve seen from the previous novel but also the issues of laudanum use and coming to grips with the strengths and weaknesses of your faith. She didn’t drag each of the old books into the next as much as she told each story individually while creating a beautiful arc of another story and wove it throughout each. We’re left waiting for more of Mary and her tale.

And what did I hate?
Not much. Most of what I hated had to do with seeing myself in characters I can’t like or respect. I hated having to examine my heart and find things in it I didn’t like in there—weaknesses I pretend I don’t have.

Sigh. It hurt.
But there was one thing that did mar some of the story for me. In one place in particular (but to a lesser degree in one or two more), the backstory wasn’t woven into the current tale. We were treated to an info-dump of “this is how all this got set up so you know what’s going on.”

Look, I get it. It happens in the best of stories. The fact of it isn’t even what bothered me as much as how it was done. It felt rushed… as if we were all sitting around a dinner table, and something happened outside. So instead of getting up to go see and return afterward to finish, we just were forced to shovel down that meal so we could get on with it.

It’s really my only complaint about the book and compared to a lot of books, it’s not worth noting. But, even at the end, while I’m still basking in the glow of the “light of Nantucket,” I remember that clog of information. So I mention it.

Seriously, I loved the book. I'm so glad that I requested a review copy of it from Celebrate Lit.

I still give it five stars because, hey. I loved the book! And after seeing the hints of what’s coming in the next one, I’m anxious for it. Too.

If you love good historical fiction that really makes you think and has a romance that feels natural and true… then yes. You’ll want to read this one. Sooner rather than later.

From loss and betrayal springs faith and love...

It's a rare thing indeed when I actually like the second book in a series better than the first. But, such is the case with Minding The Light, book 2 in the Nantucket Legacy series. I was originally intrigued by this series because of Suzanne Woods Fisher's slight departure from usual Amish fare to historical Quakers.

I loved how the characters are so flawed, making them more realistic. They make mistakes, even lash out, but love and faith are their redemption.
The dual timeline thing is actually really good. Great Mary's diary entries often parallel what is happening in the lives of the more 'modern' characters, and, her experience and wisdom are invaluable.

More than just an entertaining read, Minding The Light also has some important themes. Things that popped out at me were; the value of ALL people, doing the right thing even when it isn't popular and could be dangerous, and just how easy it is for the Faithful to slip into self-righteous hypocrisy that can really damage a person's witness.

I enjoyed reading Suzanne Woods Fisher's latest addition to her Nantucket Legacy series and I find myself looking forward to what she might have in store for her readers, and characters, next.

(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

Minding the Light by author Suzanne Woods Fisher is an intricate, beautiful, touching historical tale filled with emotion. History buffs will swoon over this jam packed detailed story that was so expertly researched. Readers that like to learn about different sects will enjoy hearing about Quakers. This is Book Two in author Fisher’s Nantucket Legacy series, but it could be read as a stand alone. However, you won’t want to miss Book One which was spectacular, too.

This is the story of dashing sea captain Reynolds “Ren” Macy. Six years ago, Ren sailed out leaving his bride in pursuit of whale oil. Unfortunately he returns home to grief, but there are also surprises. The road ahead is difficult for Ren, and it will cost him quite a lot. However, the transformation he made throughout this book was downright inspiring to anyone of any time period.d

It is also the story of Daphne. She is the heroine, a strong, compassionate Quaker, who happens to be engaged to Ren’s cousin and business partner. Daphne faces hypocrisy among peers, friends, and elders. However, she remains steady and true to herself and her beliefs. A great romance is told here. Her character is extremely relatable and likable. She quickly became my friend and I was invested in her life. It takes a great writer to pen a good friend.

In this captivating novel, I was given food for thought. Things to think about long after I had finished the last page. The author made me realize that we all deal with issues no matter in what era we are born. Hypocrisy has been around since the beginning of time and romantic problems. We all sin and fall short of how we hope to live, but Jesus is always there. He is the true Light of the World. My favorite thing for a Christian novel is to have a Christian message. This one gets an A+ for that.

I highly recommend Minding the Light for anyone that enjoys historical Christian romance. This was a wonderful book. You won’t be disappointed. It would really be a great book club read because there are so many things to discuss. It definitely gets a 5 out of 5 star rating.

This is another great, easy read by one of the most prolific Christian historical authors out there! I think this series by her is one of my favorite! Filled with endearing characters that engage and delight this book jumps between two different historical periods and it adds so much depth and layers to the whole story!
This book is about something beautiful coming out of a tragedy. When Daphne and Ren lose someone near and dear to them will something good come out of the tragedy? As they grow closer together will they be able to overcome the barriers that separate them or will their love come at too high of cost?
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Minding the Light, is the second book in the Nantucket Legacy series by author, Suzanne Woods Fisher. Ms Fisher puts you right in the middle of early 19th century America with flashbacks to a century before that through the journal of Mary Starbuck. She gives you glimpses of Quaker life as well as that of seafaring men and the women who wait for them at home.

In fact, the opening scene is of Jane Macy as she and her children are hurrying to meet her seafaring Captain husband, Reynolds Macy. But Jane only has a small role in the story although her character has an affect on all the others. The true heroine is her sister, Daphne who must step in and her the widowed Captain with his children whom he has only just met.

Jane leaves Reynolds a dying message to "Mind the Light" from which the book gets it's name. Reynolds, decides his wife didn't only die from sickness but was murdered. He accuses the Doctor because of some medicine he has been treating her with but all may not be as it seems.

Tristam, Reynold's partner also has him deep in debt and then suddenly disappears. A bounty hunter appears to apprehend Reynold's first mate, a black man, whom the bounty hunter wants to return to slavery.

Daphne's mother despises Reynold's and his children but she had already turned her back on Jane before she died. Now she pushes Daphne and Tristam into a betrothal neither, secretly, seems to want.

Minding the Light is a very interesting character study and a lesson in humility, redemption, and forgiveness. It is a historical romance but the romance rolls very gently through the story.

It makes for an interesting summer read. Thanks to Revell for allowing me to read Minding the Light through Netgalley

Suzanne Woods Fisher's Minding the Light is the second installment in her very interesting Nantucket Legacy series. If you have read the first book -- Phoebe's Light -- you will enjoy the return visit to Nantucket Island. But if you have missed that book, this one can be easily enjoyed on its own.

Suzanne does her usual masterful job of story telling as she mixes real historical characters and events with some of her own imagination. She shares a captivating tale of the challenges and dangers of the sea-faring life of many of the island's inhabitants and their family members left behind. I found the Quaker history to be fascinating, as this is a group that I have known little about. Suzanne throws in some tough topics from centuries past that readers might expect to see more in today's news, such as opium use and cultural and racial concerns. As in the previous story, the "current" timeline (17th century) is intertwined with Great Mary's journal -- the writings of an ancestor who lived during the very earliest days of the island's settlement.

I highly recommend Minding the Light as a great historical read written by one of my favorite authors.

Suzanne Woods Fisher is a favorite author of mine. I have read all her Amish books and love the historicals ones even more. This is a wonderful installment of this series set in Nantucket. I love the characters and look forward to the next book in the series. Thanks Netgallet and Revel for the complimentary arc . the opinions are mine

Although this is a sequel, it definitely works as a stand-alone novel. Those who have read the
first book, however, are swept straight back into the story - the link being made by the journal of Mary Coffin Starbuck from the 1660s. The parallel accounts continue, with the later one having moved on a generation or two, & end with a third volume being set-up.
As always with this writer, all is convincingly authentic : it has been well-researched, & sits well with
Its period (rather than being a modern tale transplanted to the past.) A painless history lesson…!
Whilst I believe anything written by Suzanne Woods Fisher will be worth reading, I do prefer her Amish
series. I was uncomfortable with some of the storylines in Minding the Light. Possibly the most convincing characters were the twin children.

I'm so glad I found this Nantucket Legacy series. Fisher has converted me into a historical-Quaker-fiction fan --- and I think I was eased into it because I already loved Fisher's Amish stories.

Minding the Light certainly reflects the hardships in a burgeoning yet still isolated Nantucket community. It also demonstrates the hypocrisy of religion when what we practice doesn't align with what we preach. Most significantly, it illustrates the many kinds of love we are able to share when push comes to shove.

Despite some tragic plot lines, I really enjoyed the Captain's story. From his time on the boat to his trust in Abraham to his growing love for his children, the Captain was what we should all strive to be - dignified, respectable, caring, and open to hearing what others think of us.

This novel wasn't all seriousness and morality lessons, though. There were Patience's smirks, the children's fun personalities, some love stories, a maverick business partner, and quite a caricature of a mother in law!

I was entertained, learned more about the Quakers, and enjoyed the oceanfront setting as I await my own vacation to the shore.

https://randombookmuses.com/2018/08/01/review-minding-the-light-by-suzanne-woods-fisher/