"Shadows of Time" by Crystal Mary Lindsey

4.0 out of 5 stars Enjoyable & Enlightening!, February 17, 2013

Book Description

Publication Date: December 12, 2011

Twenty-seven-year-old Ariana Ross has not had an easy life. Orphaned at two after her parents are murdered, she is raised by her father’s family in Queensland, Australia. Ariana—who embraces spirituality and refuses to believe life is against her—eventually becomes a physician. Now, as Ariana heads to new beginnings at a medical practice in Gumbirra, Queensland, she hopes to broaden her horizons, tend to her patients with the help of God’s love, and leave her past behind. She has no idea how many surprises await to change her life forever.

After relocating, Ariana encounters Zane Lombardi, a handsome, angry stranger who leaves her heart thumping. It is only after another chance encounter with him that she realizes he is an emotionally scarred man who has lost his trust in women. Even so, the pair are so attracted to each other that it seems destiny dictates the potential for a relationship. As Ariana forges new friendships and heals her patients, Zane must reconcile his past as well as his relationship with God as he looks toward the future.
In this contemporary Christian tale, Ariana finds that her quest for a new beginning seems to be leading her to not only love, but also to an amazing discovery that may bring her inner peace at last.

Biography

Crystal Mary Lindsey was born in Australia and derives from an English, Welsh, French and Italian background. She is a retired registered nurse with specialties in emergency medicine and mental health. Crystal also has a diploma in professional counseling. From a strong Christian background, she enjoys sharing her inspirations of walking in faith in order to inspire and encourage others to live their dreams. A wife, mother and grandmother, Crystal lives in Australia.

My Review ~

Ariana Ross was raised in Australia by extended family after her parents were murdered. She was only two years old at the time. She is now ready to leave unanswered questions of her past behind, and begin a medical practice several hours from the only home she knows. Strong in faith and character she embraces her new life with enthusiasm and a positive attitude. Arianna easily makes new friends, and her outgoing and compassionate nature is a balm to those around her. She encounters Zane Lombardi on two occasions that leave her angry with his surly attitude. His mistrust of women stems from a painful broken relationship with his first girlfriend, and that emotional baggage has left him scarred and unable to pursue another relationship. Both Ariana and Zane have close relationships with God, and meet under more favorable circumstances at a reception for Ariana at the church they both attend. Friends of Ariana's family invite both of them to dinner that afternoon, and they see one another in a more positive light, and an undeniable attraction develops between them. 

This is a delightful Christian romance that portrays two individuals who develop a relationshp quite naturally due to their shared Italian heritage and love of family, and a devotion and love of God that they each embrace and practice. Crystal Mary Lindsey writes with a very descriptive quality where she creates beautiful scenery and wonderful visual images. Her characters are very likable and respectable, and represent positive role models. Issues of mistrust and fear are overcome in believable and sentimental situations, and through the spiritual qualities that the author has created in her characters. Shadows of Time is a very enlightening and enjoyable story. 

DISCLAIMER: I received a copy of this book from the author with no expectations regarding a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine, and no compensation has been received for this honest review.