A Father's Love: Justice and Forgiveness
by Jean DeFreese Moore
Covenant Books


"The Spirit had come to Reid in a dream, telling him, "Don't be afraid to take (this woman) home as your wife. The baby inside her is from the Holy Spirit."

A sequel to A Father's Love: Faith and Family, Moore's book continues the story about the next generation of Britts. Reid Britt is as devoted to God as his father, Travis. He promises to marry Chipeta, a beautiful Indian woman, after she is brutally attacked and assaulted so she will not have to have her child out of wedlock. Before her due date, Reid delivers news to his family that he will be away traveling for his new job at a law firm. Instead, however, he has taken a job as an undercover agent in the dangerous world of human trafficking. While he is away, Chipeta is attacked again and loses the baby. Travis and Luke, Reid's older brother, step in to care for an ailing Chipeta. Soon, the entire family is affected by Reid's double life as a secret agent. Even in the midst of danger, the family remains strong and keeps the faith that, although Reid is not with them, he is working for God to help save those who cannot save themselves.

Moore has written a heartfelt family drama filled with excitement and adventure. This second book in her series focuses on Travis' children and grandchildren, but Moore keeps Travis very much a part of the storyline. A man of deep faith, Travis has imparted the same religious commitment to his children, all of whom also live under God's watchful eye and continually refer to scripture to guide them through a loving life. Each of Moore's characters has their own relationship with God. For example, Reid is a kind and loving soul who agrees to marry Chipeta, just as Joseph decided to marry Mary after she fell pregnant out of wedlock. Readers are sure to admire Reid for his selfless act. Even when Reid prioritizes working undercover, which means putting his family at risk, he is convinced that protecting those who have no voice for themselves is what God would want him to do. Chipeta learns to prefer life with Reid's family over her past life at the Indian reservation, especially because she can openly worship God with them. Moore has created a strong female character in the beautiful Chipeta, who will surely become a fan favorite.

The author writes with deep compassion for all of her main characters. Moore's characters are as rich in their faith as they are in personality, and the reader empathizes with them. Although their lives are not always easy and never, it seems, without drama, they maintain their steadfast dedication to God and trust that they will be protected and loved. The moral compass that weaves through the Britt family line is strong, and readers may see pieces of their own family in these well-written characters. The author writes with a palpable conviction in God and faith, which comes through loud and clear to her readers. Whatever trials and tribulations her characters go through, in the end, it is God who saves them. Overall, Moore delivers a fast-paced plot filled with adventure. Throughout the novel, the author cites full passages from scripture and leaves thorough footnotes for each one cited, which is especially helpful for her religious readers. Fighting for justice while also seeking and receiving forgiveness are major themes of the novel. Fans of family dramas will have a hard time putting this novel down.

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