In THE TEA CHEST, HEIDI CHIAVAROLI tells the story of two women, Emma Malcolm, who lived in the 1700's and Hayley Ashworth, who lives in the present time. Their stories run parallel to each other and their dilemma of when to show loyalty and when to fight for freedom is very well brought out. Both of them have suffered abuse - Emma from her overbearing and cruel father and Hayley from her weak, drug addicted mother. Both women seek courage, Emma as she is involved in helping the Patriots and plays a part in the Boston Tea Party, and Hayley who joins the navy and wants to become the first woman SEAL Neither woman wants to show herself as being weak.
The author tells a very real story with very real characters. She is so good at describing their emotions that we feel as though we are going through their struggles with them. The tea chest and what it contains plays a big part and I like the way that Emma's journal and their research help Hayley and Ethan to unlock its secrets.
There is a strong message running through the book - of overcoming, of unconditional love, of redemption, of loyalty and reconciliation, and of the fact that true courage and freedom comes from surrendering to the Lord.
This is a book that will stay with you long after you finish reading and one I cannot recommend highly enough.
I received an ARC copy from Tyndale House Publishers and NetGalley. The opinions in this review are completely my own.