Marylu Tyndall

When Angels Cry is the first book in the Guardians of the Saints series by MaryLu Tyndall. Having read other books by this author I was interested in listening to this audiobook that deals quite dramatically with what life might look like in the not-too-distant future. I was not disappointed. It captured my attention from beginning to end. It is very apparent the author has researched well the end-time prophecies and Biblical teachings regarding the times when Christ will return. I was intrigued by the angel characters and their role in our lives. The story is thought-provoking, fascinating, and a powerful read.
James R Cheatham did a great job giving voice to Angelica and Daniel's story, which made for a pleasurable listening experience. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will be reading the rest of the series. Readers who enjoy Christian mystery and suspense romance books will not want to miss When Angels Cry. I listened to a complimentary copy of the audiobook and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.… (plus d'informations)

The book starts out with a future event and then moves backwards to get background info. It took me a little bit to get adjusted to the “time thing”, but once I did, what a start it has! The writing was so detailed and captivating that you got caught up into the book right away. A storm at sea and I could almost feel the roll of the ship, the crash of waves, the thunder and the terror of drowning at sea!
It’s set in 1866 after the Civil War and some Southerners who were having a hard time adjusting for one reason or another, wanted a fresh start. And what better place for that was in Brazil close to Rio de Janeiro. Twenty two passengers, along with the crew set sail from Charleston to paradise. Or so they thought.
Colonel Blake Wallace, who put this expedition together, suffered from what we now know as PTSD from the Civil War. He needed to get away and start fresh in a new and wonderful land to try and escape the horrors of war that still haunt him. And Eliza Crawford was shunned from her family and friends when she “deserted the South” by marrying a general in the Northern army. When he was killed, after only one year of marriage, she had no place to go...so this trip was her last hope for a new life.
Mysterious Angelina’s past and what did Mr. Dodd know about it? Why was Mr. Scott so hard on his daughter, Magnolia? Had he always been that way or did something happen to change him? Will the “white folks” ever be able to forget their prejudice against the slaves and accept the freed slaves, Moses, his sister and her children?
James, the preacher (who used to be a doctor) sums up why God let’s bad things happen to Blake so well. The conversation starts on page 211 and ends on 212. I can’t quote that much, but here’s just a glimpse:
“No one can deny the existence of God when looking at such beauty.” (James)
“And what can one deny when they gaze upon severed limbs and spilt entrails upon the battlefield?” (Blake)
“One cannot deny that mankind is fallen and in desperate need of salvation.” (James) “Then why didn’t God save us? Why didn’t He stop the war, all the killing?” (Blake)
“Because He gave mankind a wonderful yet dangerous gift.”... “Free will. We are the ones who start wars, not God.” (James)

God’s love, grace and mercy are woven throughout this story, not preachy, not overpowering, but subtle reminders that God loves us, shows us mercy and grace beyond what we deserve and we should show that same forgiveness to others.
The end left me wanting more - a mystery yet to be solved.… (plus d'informations)