Taking a stand for Christ has always cost something.
Queen Mary’s reign has brought stability to Laurence’s family—but it has also hidden dangerous truths. When the words of a martyr awaken questions he cannot ignore, Laurence is drawn toward a forbidden faith that could cost him everything.
London is no longer safe. The Bishop’s soldiers hunt those who don’t hold to Catholicism. Friends turn away. Trust becomes dangerous. As fear tightens its grip, Laurence must decide whom to believe—and what he is willing to lose.
As the Voice of the ashes calls him forward, will he stand for truth, even if it means standing alone?
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Readers say:
Voice of the Ashes is the story of one young man and his search for truth—yet it is also so much more. Few novels have spoken to me as deeply and challenged my faith as powerfully as this one. It’s a testimony to the lasting impact our words and lives can have on those who come after us. It’s a witness to the work of the Holy Spirit in drawing hungry hearts to the only One who can satisfy. And it’s a reminder that each and every one of us is called to carry the light.
Following Laurence’s journey from beginning to end was all at once harrowing, heartbreaking, and hopeful. It was beautiful to see the many ways God was working in his life and leading all along even when he couldn’t see it. I loved that the author wasn’t afraid to show the consequences that came from Laurence’s choice to follow Christ while also showing that the cost is so worth it.
While the story is especially compelling for young adults, older readers will be able to benefit from it as well. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to think deeply about the price they would be willing to pay to live the truth they believe.
Hannah Grace
I received this book in the mail on Sunday, and by Tuesday, it was already devoured. And now I am weeping because I desire to read it again for the first time.
What is so special about this book?
It tells the story of Laurence, a Catholic Priest’s son, who gets saved and becomes a Protestant in a time where Catholicism is the main religion, and anything else is heresy. So converting means you will most likely face death.
This novel is the absolute definition of a God-honoring historical fiction read, and it will truly encourage you in your walk with the Lord.
There was nothing I didn’t like about it. It was extremely wholesome, though I do recommend it for ages 12+ due to a little bit of violence, but it is nothing extreme.
This book is going straight into my most-loved book category! I HIGHLY recommend it.
Braylynne
As a work of historical fiction, I think this is the best I’ve read of that time period – good, appropriate style and diction with a message or choice for everyone, regardless of what your position in life is. I would recommend you read it for yourself to find out what the message is; it’ll be clearer that way. And read the WHOLE thing. Don’t stop part way through; you’ll miss out if you do.
As a teacher of ESL, I’m glad I can even recommend it to C1 level students. The vocabulary and style make for a comfortable read with a clear message, while improving vocabulary and diction.
Clear and thought provoking.
R.V.
This is perhaps the best historical fiction I can recall reading. The historical accuracy lines up well with stories I have read from the Martyr’s Mirror. The plot is realistic.
My favourite part is the way the author walks the reader through whatever inner conflict he may have to come to the right place at the end. It doesn’t matter whether it’s someone who is afraid what others will think, someone who is holding onto some deep personal hurt, or someone who believes himself to have committed an unpardonable sin. Everyone is brought to the right conclusion at the end – if he is willing to be lead there.
The evil parts of life are not denied or avoided, but the author does not focus on all the gory details. “The lash fell.” “The wood crackled into flame.” This quite pleasingly contrasts with other reports of the persecution against the protestants where torture is described in gory detail.
To sum it all up, it is a thought provoking, upbuilding, engaging book – profitable for the young person seeking truth.
S.V.