Old-Fashioned Film Love: “Jayne's Endeavour” by Lauren Compton

A 19th century tale of mystery and intrigue set in colonial Australia.
When puzzling strangers appear and odd things start to happen, eighteen-year-old Jayne Reid and her two younger sisters must find a solution—or lose everything. Journey with Jayne as she struggles to change fear into boldness and boldness into a trusting relationship with her Heavenly Father.

Genre: Christian Historical Fiction.
Age Group: YA Adult (12-18).
Page Count: 276 pages.
Release Date: 1st of June, 2020.

Author Bio:
Lauren Compton lives in Australia on a sheep farm—surrounded by mountains and plenty of Aussie wildlife! From a young age she has loved books and writing-related things (yep, that includes spending ages in the writing supplies department!). Now she has embarked on a mission to write books that both entertain AND encourage. Her desire is to weave stories that point readers to her Heavenly Father while at the same time being a whole lot of fun!

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About the Series:
The JOY Series follows three sisters on a quest to keep their parents’ legacy and dreams alive. Loaded with 19th century Australian adventure, it’s a series full of intrigue, adventure, and faith for ages 12 and up!

Jayne's Endeavour

(The JOY Series, Book 1)

by Lauren Compton

Synopsis:

Mysterious strangers, a Scripture verse, and a threat.

“Reids never give up.” The words once held so much truth. But at eighteen, Jayne Reid is beginning to wonder if she can live up to that standard.

When puzzling strangers appear and odd things start to happen, Jayne and her two younger sisters must find a solution—or lose everything.

What mystery lurks in the shadows of the Australian bush? Who is the man in town who thinks he can buy and bully anyone he wishes? And is it all somehow connected with their new farmhand?

Journey with Jayne as she struggles to change fear into boldness and boldness into a trusting relationship with her Heavenly Father. What adventure lies ahead?

My Review:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ & ❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎

5 stars & 5/10 hearts. The first time I heard of this book, it was unfinished. But I immediately wanted to read it. (Australia?? Sign me up. And also, just LOOK at that gorgeous cover!!!). I was so excited to get an ARC of this book. I wasn’t sure what to expect, besides that it would be squeaky clean. I was delighted! This book was indeed perfectly and refreshingly clean. I loved the message, all about trusting God and finding joy—it’s one I relate to a lot. I loved the girls’ names, too, and what they meant—such a lovely pattern!! The sisters were all amazing, and I really loved Aiden & Imogen too (can’t wait to hear their story!). The mystery/excitement was well done, but not spooky, and I appreciate that. This book was very well written, especially for a historical fiction, and it is very Australian. I highly recommend it and I am so eager to get my hands on Book 2!!

A Favourite Quote: “‘Please God, give me strength.’ A response echoed in her heart. The joy of the Lord is your strength. Delight in the Lord, for God is always gracious.”

A Favourite Beautiful Quote: “Yvonne started humming. The sound filled the small house with its sweetness, chasing away some of the gloom that lurked in the corners of the home and hearts of the girls[.]”

A Favourite Humorous Quote: “The next house was Mrs Sterling’s. As she wondered if she could just leave the items by the front door without knocking, her shoulders slumped. There was one undeniable problem with that option. If she didn’t knock, she wouldn’t be able to collect the money they’d worked so hard to earn. A bird flitted past her head, singing. She glared at it. What was there to sing about?”

*I received an ARC of this book from the author in return of my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my own opinions.*