Jean Desmond was starving! Like the crimson creeper, which old Rawlings had tried to hammer into shape, the more blows upon her personage, the more wild Jean becomes.

Blessedly, an acquaintance of her grandfather comes to her rescue. Launched into the world with all her dreams and fame before her, Jean determines to do only what her heart desires.

A peril in Paris, an intriguing child’s portrait, an unselfish decision, and dire straits in London all shift the world beneath Jean. She finds her heart returning to ponder that wooing truth, “Around what or whom does your world center?”

But, will her thoughts and prayers be answered? Will Jean Desmond ever be truly good in the Master’s sight?

The Artist by Amy LeFeuvre captures the work of the Great Artist in a story of rescue, refining, and real servitude!

The story spans over four years of time, with very few time skips, which takes us on a most natural journey alongside impetuous, endearing Jean.

As a character, Jean is highly relatable. I enjoyed the honesty of her character; Jean never thought of herself more than she ought to. When a fault was shown, she admitted its truth. When a compliment was given, she kindly received or deflected it back to the Maker. Jean had an increasing interest in others, a heart that was passionately faithful, and perseverance in the faith.

By no means perfect, but worth following.

Besides the main character, Amy shows attention to other souls intertwined into the book. Her side characters are humorously different from each other! They are so creatively written, and each one is enjoyable in his or her own turn. I liked them all and they all grew in good ways!

The consistent use of short letters in this story keeps us connected to each character through the whole of the book. Also, typical of her style, Amy weaves a simple romance within the pages that delights!

The setting of this beautiful story contrasts the drab moors, vibrant London, and shining Scottish soils. As seen through the artistic eyes of Jean, these places stand out in all their individuality.

The story takes us from a center of self to a center of Christ that propels us into becoming His servants, ambassadors, and beloved children.

All the little lessons and strong themes in The Artist are stirring, straight from the words of the Bible! Amy formed a pattern of truths that not only made sense in a story-world, but apply directly to some place where we are in our servitude to Christ.

Hallelu Yah! I praise You, Jesus, for coming to serve and give Your life as a ransom for many, so we may be saved by faith unto good works (Matt. 20:28; Eph. 8:8-10). And praise God, all the days of our lives, “the eternal God is our refuge and underneath are the everlasting arms!” (Deut. 33:27)

If you enjoy a book with humor and love, an extraordinary cast of character, and strong Christian faith that inspires, I highly recommend The Artist by Amy LeFeuvre!