Reviewed by: Aubree DeVisser of Michigan is a professional writing major at Taylor University in Upland, IN.

Introduction

Title: Her Deadly Inheritance

Author: Beth Ann Ziarnik

Publisher: Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas

Publication Date: 2016

Format: Paperback

Length: 255 pages

OVERVIEW

This novel is a Christian mystery full of twists and turns in the midst of a family feud. Windtop, a historic home passed down for generations, is desperately sought after by Jill’s tenacious Aunt Lenore. The problem is, Jill is the only inheritor left after her mother is said to have committed suicide. However, Jill is not convinced her mother actually did commit suicide, and she’s determined to figure out the truth. In the process, she is introduced to Clay, a man hired for restorations to Windtop. Little does she know, he has an agenda that could destroy any chance they have at having a relationship.

The viewpoints switch back and fourth between these two characters; Clay has a past, just as Jill does; however, Jill has the advantage of a strong relationship with God. Clay, a former believer, stepped away from his faith when he experienced a tragedy that continues to haunt him. It is Jill’s goal to convince him to let it go. Each character searches for clues to help explain pieces of the other person’s past in hope of providing healing that will allow them to move on. Jill continually portrays the grace of God, and her light shines on everyone except her conniving Aunt Lenore and Cousin Carver. Her faith in God leads her to a startling truth, but it also provides her with the ability to forgive and move ahead.  She opens herself to a relationship with a godly man and to new-found friends as she seeks a life for herself at Windtop.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5)

5

Suggested Audience

Suggested audience: YA and up

Christian Impact

Beth Ziarnik tells an intriguing and thrilling story of what life is like when you have God in your life, or, consequently, when you don’t.  Observing difficult people and challenging situations throughout the novel, the readers are taught meaningful life lessons about how to persevere with God at their side. With each character in a different place in his or her faith, a wide range of readers will find someone to relate to in this story.

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