Book Review: Where We Belong by Lynn Austin

The Adventure of a Lifetime for Two Indomitable Socialite Sisters

In the city of Chicago in 1892, the rules for Victorian women are strict, their roles limited. But sisters Rebecca and Flora Hawes are not typical Victorian ladies. Their love of adventure and their desire to use their God-given talents has brought them to the Sinai Desert–and into a sandstorm. 

Accompanied by Soren Petersen, their somber young butler, and Kate Rafferty, a street urchin who is learning to be their ladies’ maid, the two women are on a quest to find an important biblical manuscript. As the journey becomes more dangerous and uncertain, the four travelers sift through memories of their past, recalling the events that shaped them and the circumstances that brought them to this time and place.

My Thoughts: I’ve come to expect a well-researched, historically in-depth novel from Austin and she surely doesn’t disappoint here. The setting shifts from a 19th century Chicago to the exotic travels of two women. Her ability to transport the reader is remarkable.
Austin weaves in the gospel and a solid message about trusting God into a story with lots of heart and adventure. I enjoyed how the characters’ circumstances were constantly changing.
I really loved Becky and the way she struggled against what everyone around her wanted for life. I appreciated the way she stood her ground and kept her eyes on who God wanted her to be. Sadly, her sister Flora fell flat for me. But I thoroughly enjoyed Petersen and Kate’s stories. These two really came to life and pulled at my heartstrings and helped to give the story a very powerful ending that I couldn’t put down.

Rating and Recommendations: Where We Belong is a great read for those who enjoy Christian Historical Fiction or those looking for fiction based in another country. I’m giving it 4.5 stars.

~ I received a copy from Bethany House. I was not compensated for my review. All thoughts are my own.