The echoing past had raised Nora Warrendale of stronger grit than the girls in Boston society. Although each moment on this rugged mountain was beginning to make her question that. God had led her here, she was positive. And, seeming to affirm that calling, every time Nora feels like all the waves will come crashing down upon her pretty head, the people surprise her with kindness.

Nora begins to love Grassy Flats, her work teaching the children, and everyone in the town. Except Rett. What was lurking behind those grey eyes, warning her to stay away? Why did the young lawman have to be the only one to scorn her company? And why, if Everette Walker was such a savage, did she feel drawn toward him?

Everette Walker carries jagged scars from days long past. He has grown comfortable with pain and blood, the determination required of a lawman. Yet, since that pretty girl with feathers had come into town, trouble increased. Much more will be demanded of Rett when the tension in the air snaps with gunfire. Will he have the strength to act justly?

In the midst of turmoil, Miss Warrendale is a mystery. Rett doesn’t hate her, not entirely. It’s only that her pretty eyes, filled with tears she wouldn’t let fall, and her evident love and courage were drawing him to her. And he couldn’t let that happen again.

Will the shadows of their pasts bury them or will the light of God’s redemption bring a new life?

Shadows of the Past is an outstanding stand-alone Christian western novel by LaKaysha Elizabeth, authoress of the Songs of the Children Trilogy!

I say stand-alone, but there were a few loose ends and potential for another action-packed, faith-focused part of Nora’s story.

These pages hold a switch in LaKaysha’s writing style. She chose first person for Nora’s side– a complete switch and well-played – and third-person singular for Rett’s side – a simple twist from her usual. The result makes it read as though Nora is telling the whole story, yet satisfies us in that we aren’t missing either protagonist’s thoughts, feelings, or reactions to each scenario.

However, the pace is kept very even – slow when we want it to be, swift when it needs to be.

LaKaysha packed a few surprises in here, and I did not see them coming! I would say they are good surprises, and they spin and propel the plot and character development.

Yes, there is a growing relationship between the two main characters. Honestly, being a girl, I do like some “fluff” and it’s a sweet romance (as all LaKaysha’s are), but the story centered a little more around their relationship than the romances of her previous books.

Nora’s character arc was pleasant; I especially loved how determined she became to stand by Rett despite discomfort, doubt, or danger. She didn’t let anyone form a negative opinion for her of Rett, she stayed and saw through to his heart.

Rett’s character arc is intriguing; I’m not entirely sure what to make of it. He definitely grew in humility. In a way, he lost some of his innocence and had to cling to God a lot harder.

I don’t usually read westerns; it simply hasn’t been my style. However, I found the setting and feel of the book enjoyable – rough around the edges, but vibrant, tender, and faith-filled at the core.

All the little things of faith twined into the story – the hymn, Josh’s testimony, Rett’s challenge to Nora, his spontaneous prayers in the fight guided by Scripture, Nora going down the boardwalk with Him, etc. – were my favorite details! I admit that, when I read, I search for those things.

There is no foul language or insinuations of questionable behavior. There are mentions of/actual deaths and killing, a couple gun/knife fights, and multiple threats as the characters face outlaws. However, LaKaysha didn’t feel the need to drench us in the culture; rather she used the elements to drive home her rugged and beautiful themes.

There are many premises within the twists of the story, numerous shadows drawn from experiences of pain which, when brought into the redeeming, gentle light of Christ, are dispelled into shafts of glorious illumination.

I could hear the plea for Christ-followers to not allow our sinful pasts to define us or each other. Paul gave an example of this in 1 Corinthians 5 & 2 Corinthians 2:5-11. Men who repent should not be treated as if they haven’t, and men who refuse to repent should not be treated as if they had – “in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes” (2 Cor. 2:11). Therefore, be holy because God is holy and forgive as the Lord forgave you (1 Pt. 1:16, Col. 3:13).

I could sense the false sense of strength Nora and Rett had in the beginning; a resolve born of fear and pain. Yet, true strength was ultimately found in weakness – when they were vulnerable before God and each other, that’s when they gained the most fortitude and help.

Hallelu Yah! I praise You, Jesus – because of Your blood I have forgiveness from God of all my sin, past and future! I have received salvation, full and free, in You, Jesus, and my past – sin, regret, good works – does not define who I am. In Christ, I made new, pure, redeemed. I am free to be weak and in need before You, God. And in my weakness, You are strong (2. Cor. 12:10)! Hallelu Yah!

If you’re searching for a hearty, healthy western read, look no further. Pick up Shadows of the Past and enjoy!