The Thorn Bearer (Penned in Time, #1) in Readers Unite

Apr 10, 2015 Catherine rated it it was amazing

A disclaimer - I'm not a huge historical fiction fan. So when I find one that resonates with me, it's a keeper. Pepper Basham's The Thornbearer is definitely one of those books. I was enthralled from the beginning. The historical details are wonderfully woven throughout the story and the setting so real I felt I was actually there. And the characters … even the one I didn't like had grabbed my heart by the end of the story. Wonderfully story-telling, a realistic faith journey, memorable prose an ...more

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Nov 02, 2015 Mikal Dawn rated it it was amazing

Pepper Basham has created a world of beauty, pain, tumultuous emotion, and raw love. All in her debut novel.

Pepper's characters are brilliantly portrayed and real, with natural growth. You can't help but like, if not love, them. And love them I did.

The plot, with the Lusitania and WWI England as a background, was gorgeously written and brought me such deep satisfaction, I want to go back and read it all over again. And I just finished!

Thank you, Pepper, for a beautiful story. I can't wait to ...more

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Apr 13, 2015 Melissa rated it really liked it · review of another edition

This one is more like a 3.5 but I'm going to leave it at a 3 because it really needs another copy edit. Errors like "her wearing legs" instead of "her weary legs" pop up more often than it should though not so terrible that it made it unreadable or anything. But if you aren't one of those who lets little stuff like that drive you up the wall, you should try it. Very internally angsty. ...more

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May 08, 2018 Dana rated it really liked it · review of another edition

The story was beautiful. But the writing style is exquisite. I'm going to need to download the next two books. Can't wait! ...more

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Jan 30, 2016 Just Commonly rated it it was amazing

A bang! That's how Pepper Basham's The Thorn Bearer started off. Did you read the snippet from my earlier post today? My "bang" is not referring to what happened in the snippet, but what the very first words of the story. "Death hovered in the shadows of the room..." (1). I didn't expect to be wrapped in so early on, but I was - the very first page. Pepper's The Thorn Bearer splashed us with a surprising revelation of the horrors of what Ashleigh faced growing up, and doused us with a sense of d A bang! That's how Pepper Basham's The Thorn Bearer started off. Did you read the snippet from my earlier post today? My "bang" is not referring to what happened in the snippet, but what the very first words of the story. "Death hovered in the shadows of the room..." (1). I didn't expect to be wrapped in so early on, but I was - the very first page. Pepper's The Thorn Bearer splashed us with a surprising revelation of the horrors of what Ashleigh faced growing up, and doused us with a sense of disgust and even hatred for Ashleigh's father early on. I don't know how I could've read on without gritting my teeth. My heart ached for Ashleigh.

The Thorn Bearer is a beautifully written novel with great historical details and striking characters, interwoven with a strong theme of grace, forgiveness and humble dignity. The story of the sinking of Lusitania during the First World War have created a enchanting backdrop in the struggles our characters face from loss to fear to truth and to hope. Each character will afflict you with a certain infectious emotion that will stay with you until you release it to a listening ear, with romance and their own spiritual journey. Ultimately, what hits me the most with The Thorn Bearer is the title and the image of what those words meant after reading this story. Thorns of pain, fear, bitterness, shame and self-deprecation filled Ashleigh's mind and emotions. Even when her thorns are pulled, scars become visible for all to see and vulnerability kicks in high, God's grace and love, soaked and washed her tears and brokenness. His grace and His love can heal all scars with beauty, dignity, faith and true love. I am reminded how our Lord Jesus wore the crown of thorns and carried our burdens and sin, and only with Him, can forgiveness and peace preside.

I do hope that I've shown you here, will give you a glimpse of the beauty and substance of The Thorn Bearer and Pepper's prose in this heart-wrenching and enlightening story. Highly recommend.

For the full review and snippet: Just Commonly Blog

NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book through Singing Librarian Tours for an honest review.

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Jul 07, 2015 Candee Fick rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

A beautiful tale

From the opening scene to the end, I was completely caught up in this amazing tale about forgiveness, second chances, and even blooming in the middle of pain. And the deep love between Ashleigh and Sam brought me to tears several times. Bravo!

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Aug 14, 2017 Caryl rated it it was amazing

Shelves: 2017-challenge

Have you encountered a dark night of the soul? Then this book is for you. Ashleigh suffered a traumatic experience in her childhood. I admired her strength and determination as she sought to overcome this event in her own strength. Even in the midst of family drama, there is a sliver of hope. I was convicted of my own need to truly forgive those that had hurt me. This is an exquisite masterpiece saturated with the Lord's love and mercy toward those who are broken. This story will resonate within ...more

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