I have absolutely no interest in the Twilight series and I’m not into zombie television, either. What I am into is good story-telling about interesting characters who are struggling with real life issues, trying somehow, by the grace of God, to be the best people they can be.
That’s why I love Michael and Sarah Kent-Hughes. When “The Dancing Priest” was released at the dawn of 2012, I wrote about it in a post describing the power of a good romance. And that book was indeed a most excellent romance, filled with powerful plot twists, intriguing characters, and a happy ending. That’s where I met Michael and Sarah and as I finished that first volume of their story, I heaved a happy sigh.
And almost immediately, experienced a deep longing for more. More story, more surprises, more intrigue, more romance. Happily, I soon discovered that Glynn Young, the outlandishly talented and prolific author of “The Dancing Priest,” was not done with Michael and Sarah’s story, either.
Phew!
Well. Volume 2 in the continuing saga releases on Kindle TODAY, and is available at Amazon now. If you have read the first book, go out there and buy this one now. If you have not read the first one — it is FREE until midnight, so download both of them tonight and have a rich reading experience over the next few days!
“A Light Shining,” is a very different book from, “The Dancing Priest.” Yes, the same characters are here and some fascinating new ones, too. Yes, there is, once again, cross-continental travel in this saga, as well as glimpses into Michael’s everyday life as an Anglican priest. But from the very first sentence, you know that we are most definitely not in Kansas anymore. There is something ominous afoot, a threat that hangs heavy over every page.
Initially, I found this almost 0ff-putting. I love these characters and did not want anything terrible to happen to them! So as the story began, I was cautious. However, I was very quickly drawn into the unfolding of this drama, once again a willing and happy prisoner of the strong plotting and wonderful characters. I will not go into that plot in this review because I actually think that sense of dread is important to the reading of this particular story. Rather than romance, this story is filled with mystery and intrigue, hooking you early and well.
This much I will tell you: not one of us knows what the future holds, even what the next moment might bring. Perhaps we’ll have some old questions answered in amazing ways (one character finds a family he never knew). Perhaps we’ll meet someone who will become dear to us, becoming part of whatever family we have (a couple of those turn up in this story). Perhaps life will be turned completely upside down in a matter of minutes, with the outcome decidedly uncertain and deeply frightening (yes, that happens, too).
It’s all here and it’s all worth reading, believe me. You will be surprised, frightened, amazed and teary-eyed – the full spectrum! The central character of both these books is a priest, so be aware that people pray, talk about God a lot and even have their lives dramatically changed as they open themselves to God’s good work within. The story ranges far and wide and heads in directions that readers of the first book may find surprising. And as it ends, there is an open door, pointing to more story to come. May it be so!
Diana – thank you so much for this wonderful review. You captured exactly what I hoped to do with the novel.
Thank you for the book and for the review copy of it! I am glad I captured your intent – I was hoping to do so because this is such a different and far edgier story in some ways. I want people to read it – not find out about it in a review!
I’m always anxious to find new authors, new books worth reading, through other readers and writers whose judgement I trust, so I’m delighted to read your review! I rarely pick up an unknown title anymore but am now keen to get both of these books. Thanks so much!
First Laura’s review. Now yours. Off to the Kindle store I go!
These are both excellent stories, very well told. You’ll love them, I promise.
You’ll like it, Megan. Just be aware that it’s a different kind of story than the first one – same people, lots of different complications.
Always looking for a new book and author, thank you for the suggestion Diana. Would you suggest these for my 81 year old mother? Love reading your posts…
Thanks for coming by, Jenny! Yes, if your mom still enjoys reading, she will enjoy these stories. I’ve only read them in ebooks and there are a few formatting errors here and there – don’t know if that’s a problem for your mom. And the newer e-versions may have fixed those. Of the two, the first is still my favorite and you really should read them in order. There are a lot of characters and you need the through line.