The Shepherd's Voice

This is a story that will linger in your mind long after you finish reading the last page.

Set in the 1930s during the Great Depression, The Shepherd's Voice begins with a bleak landscape for the hero, Gabe. But the theme of hope quickly emerges, along with faith and love.

Gabe. He and Akira were delightful characters, the type that you could feel deeply for. Along with them, a host of side characters made for a story filled with people to cheer for–or hope for the downfall of, depending on which side they fell on.

Note: The antagonist really was the type to give you chills.

The plot progressed in a natural, but page-turning way. One plot thread involves a twist on the parable of the prodigal son story, and exploring the “what-ifs” of that was a pleasure.

Robin Lee Hatcher brings a depth of faith to this book. One point that she covers beautifully is how becoming a Christian doesn't instantly change us. Throughout the story, the hero struggles with transforming his thinking so that it aligns with God's Word. The way that he sees himself and others around him is tainted by lies that he needs to release as he grows in his understanding of God's Word and listens to the voice of the Great Shepherd. As I finished the book, I wanted to fill my head with Scripture so that I believe truth, not the lies of this world.

If you love stories with a rich historical setting, characters to love, a villain to despise, and a strong dose of faith content, give The Shepherd's Voice a try. You'll be glad you did. I know that this is one book that will be on my favorites list for 2024.