Even the cover is captivating ~ a serene woman drawn to the light is cast against a ship struggling on a dark, stormy sea. And just as on the first page Susanna drags Polly toward a farmhouse door, we are compelled to enter the story of Polly Catlett’s tumultuous relationship with John Newton.

We join them as they seem to fall immediately in love, yet go through eight years learning about each other, faith, and God. It’s a relationship that is as turbulent and strong as the ocean storms Newton encounters.

With insight and at times painful clarity, Hedlund shows us Newton the scoundrel as he struggles with disdain for God and right Christian living, while yearning for the love and respect of the devout Polly and her family.

Hedlund’s rich, detailed descriptions bring the scenes alive. We are immersed in the story world, whether we are pitching about onboard a ship in a dark storm, a raucous bar, a quiet midwinter eve in the forest, a steamy African jungle, or the glowing warmth of the Catlett parlor.

Newton was such a reprobate, making disastrous decisions, receiving grace from authorities, and then repeating the cycle that at times I’d huff and think “He’s going to do it again?” But against Newton’s foolishness and sin, the patience and unfailing love of God shines brightly ~ a reminder to us all that God has a plan, a use for each of us, and grace for our every need. The hymn “Amazing Grace,” written by John Newton, continues to bear witness to that.

As I read, I wondered what in the story was true and what was fiction. I love that Hedlund graciously includes an Author’s Note to tell us.