Home, family, and God. That’s what Laurence wants with all his heart. But, his newfound faith in the true Christ has ripped everything away from him. Except for the abiding peace that drove him to believe in the first place.

Chronically ill, nineteen-year-old Laurence struggles to find a place in London where he is wanted and safe. He longs for a friend, but can simmering Edmund or compelling Roger be trusted?

Then, the small group of Protestants, his only support, seem to shatter one by one. As danger increases on London streets, Laurence isn’t sure whether he’s trying to escape or merely survive long enough to make a difference.

Will Laurence hear and respond to the Voice of the ashes? Must his own ashes echo the message?

Voice of the Ashes, by T.R.Q.T., is an empowering and suspenseful Christian historical fiction for young adults!

The scene is Tudor London, 1655. And, if you’ve never stepped foot in this tumultuous place, don’t worry! Laurence knows all the streets. The authoress describes the vital places in the city and country, but otherwise it reads through the eyes of the main character’s familiarity.

The taste of life in Tudor London within the pages is intriguing. T.R.Q.T. focused her historical content on daily life (in the city and farm), priesthood, family dynamics, religion, and persecution of the Protestant believers. It is written with attention to detail and flavorful inclusion of peoples and places that make 1655 come alive.

The book is written in third person singular with a healthy sprinkling of third person omniscient thrown in. So, while Laurence is the hero, we get a panorama of the lives intertwined with his.

A few of the side characters who stood out to me were Hugh, Edmund, and Michael. I also really liked Laurence’s mentor. Every single one of these characters is flawed, but plays a vital role in making us feel like Laurence isn’t alone.

Honestly, this book was a stretch for me. It’s not necessarily a new genre, but the storyline and twists are not my usual preference. I was blessed by spoilers by the authoress, so the more harrowing scenes were less dramatic to me (which is my liking!). Because of the spoilers, I was able to focus more on the message of the book and truly set my mind to “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” while reading (Matt. 6:33).

The character development is what really drove the messages home. Each heart’s choice pushed the plot into precarious or precious situations.

I enjoyed the focus on forgiveness, spiritual growth, and testimony. I loved that it included so much Scripture in nearly every twist! The deep redemption threads, as well as the hopeful yet “here’s a choice for you” ending, were thought-provoking and inspiring.

I personally found the underlying chronic illness element touching. It was encouraging to see how many people Laurence touched, even with his infirmities.

Hallelu Yah! God Most High, You choose the foolish to shame the wise, the weak to shame the strong, the lowly and despised things – so that no one may boast before You (1 Cor. 1:27-28)! Our God in heaven does what pleases Him and, by His power, He does glorious things through a life surrendered to Him. I praise You, God my Strength!

If you’re searching for a deep, inspiring read with compelling characters and uncompromising faith, you may enjoy Voice of the Ashes!