Official Review: Water Bearer by Wendi Christner

[ElizaBeth Adams]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Water Bearer" by Wendi Christner.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Water Bearer, by Wendi Christner, is the first book in the Southern Skies Collection. Set in the northern hills of rural Florida, it is a Christian fiction romance novel. Cassidy, the female protagonist, is plagued with guilt for setting the fire that killed her parents seven years earlier. Now that she has graduated high school, she is ready to leave town and never look back. That would be a whole lot easier if it weren't for Jared.

Literally the boy next door, Jared Walker is Cassidy's lifelong best friend. Unlike Cassidy, all of Jared's post-high school plans center around staying planted in his hometown to help run his family's farm. Jared longs for Cassidy to stay. Cassidy yearns to escape the shadow of her family tragedy. Both desire to make more of their friendship, but neither wants to do so only to have to cut ties once the summer is over. Will they walk away with regret or take the plunge and see where their love will lead them?

This book has numerous strengths. It is well-edited. I only found a handful of minor mistakes. The character development is superb. One of my favorite characters is Willetta Wilson. She is a whiskey-drinking, tobacco-chewing older lady who is constantly coming up with 'cures' for Cassidy that are supposed to help heal her from her sorrow. The plot is thoroughly engaging. I didn't want to stop reading. Also, the book is short, so it is great for those who struggle to find time to read.

My favorite part of the whole book is how the author weaves the theme of forgiveness throughout the story. Cassidy can't forgive herself for past mistakes. Some of the citizens of the town also look down on her or make jokes about fire at her expense. There is a point where Cassidy feels betrayed by Jared. By working through the process of forgiving him, her perspective about forgiveness is transformed for the better.

While this is a Christian fiction book, readers should know this book is basically about characters who happen to go to church. There isn't a large focus on scripture or doctrine. As such, some people of other religions or non-religious people would also enjoy this tale.

Considering I can't think of any improvements for this book, I joyfully give it 4 out of 4 stars. Readers should know there is no profane language. Sexual themes are included but are written tastefully. I recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of Christian romance fiction.

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Water Bearer
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[Mutai Marshal]

This is such an informative book that teaches on the importance of forgiveness. It's very essential to live a healthy life. Great review

[Elvis Best]

Even though this is Christian fiction, I love the romance attached. I guess it's because I'm a sucker for love. Anyways, thanks for the great review.

[Topsey]

This sounds like an intriguing book to read. I know some Christian novels can be quite heavy or doctrine based so this sounds refreshing. I’ll give it a read. Thank you for the great review.

[Gabrielle Sigaki]

Water Bearer is an interesting title. The bond between Cassidy and Jared seems to be deep and strong. It sounds like great reading. Thanks for the review! Good job!

[Letora]

Given that there isn't scripture, or heavy religious themes I might try this one. It sounds like an intense story.

[Mohammed_Sameer2]

It is a good review of Wendi Christner's Water Bearer ElizaBeth , that you illustrate the psychological side of the main character, and her development with others during the story. I confirm that those works attract many readers because of their deep revealing of the wide world of character, and romantic interactions between voices. Have a great day.

[Wonna33]

The title of this book caught my attention, and after reading this review, the story is not what I expected. Still, I am interested in reading. Great review!

[Christabel Uzoamaka]

I can already tell that Cassidy’s story is one I would enjoy. I really hope that she can find peace and solve her dilemma of whether to leave or stay.
Great review!

[Dayodiola]

A Christian book but purged of Scriptures. Great review

[Valkyrie9]

Forgiveness is such a difficult yet powerful theme through life - it is always inspiring to see an author successfully weave it into their story. Water Bearer is an interesting choice of title. I would love to see how the author relates this back to the plot. Willetta Wilson sounds like a great side character! Thanks for the insightful and honest review.

[Usma Khann]

Forgiveness is a trait that is lost in today's generation. Hope this book proves beneficial to the readers. Appreciate the review.

[Nelson Reviews]

This sounds like a great read; I can't wait to flip its pages. Thanks for the review.

[Harty Muli]

I hope Cassidy really comes into term with her guilt and begs for forgiveness. Thanks for the enjoyable review.

[LinaJan]

I am glad I stuck to your review until the end! The plot seemed interesting and I like the idea of exploring the psychological aspects of dealing with guilt and forgiveness to self, but I was put off by the potential religious undertone. I'm glad you pointed out that it is not done in the way that I thought It now goes onto my shelf!

Thank you for such a thorough and inviting review! It was a mind-changer