A Light To My Path Review

A Light to My Path by Lynn Austen is the last book in the Refiner’s Fire trilogy. It is a Christian historical fiction set during the Civil War. It tells the story of two slaves, a girl named Anna (Kitty) and a boy named Grady. We follow them from childhood through the events of the Civil War and the gaining of their freedom, as well as their spiritual journeys to true freedom.

I gave this book a 4 out of 5 stars. As I am coming to expect from Austen, she is an amazing story teller. She makes these people and places come to life. The way she handles these difficult and terrible issues is so well done, gentle but honest. Slavery is a very sad and ugly topic but so important for us to remember, especially as it does still exist today and we need to be aware of God’s view and where we should stand as His followers (what we should do if possible).

I liked how Austen showed a different perspective with every book: 1. The white southerner growing up in a culture of slavery, 2. The white northerner/ north side fighting for the rights of others, and 3. The black slaves who’s lives and futures were on the line. It was also very fulfilling to see the threads connecting the characters of all three books together in such a beautiful and intricate story.

I enjoyed seeing these two young people’s path to God, but it was not always easy to read. They both go through some really bad stuff, but the way Austen addresses why God allows people to go through such things is very touching. What I had the hardest time reading was Grady’s deep anger and hatred, even aimed at God. It was so disheartening to see him fight God so hard and hold onto such deep rage, but what made it so painful for me is that I am sure that there were people just like him. How heart breaking to know that such hurt and pain those people experienced pushed, God only knows, how many people away from Him.

Again the romance was more of a sub-plot than the focus (being the two people finding their way to the Lord). I really appreciated this choice and could enjoy the romance for what it was (just one aspect of their lives). As to the sexual content, there is some kissing and one scene where they, being married, have sex (non-descriptive).

Austen did mention certain things that were done to the slaves (like rape), but it was never described, and only included as it added to the plot of the story. A couple instances of violence were described in light detail: a beating and a flogging. And of course we have a glimpse into the slave trade itself and there were some battles that we get to see. All in all, I would say she made good choices in what she allowed into the book and I appreciated that everything included served a purpose for the plot.

I am glad that I read this book. It wasn’t always a pleasant read (due to the topic), but it was a beautiful and powerful one.

For the trilogy as a whole: 

It was very good. I am so glad that I picked this series up. It was filled with strong narratives, memorable characters that were complex and deep, serious topics handled marvelously, and lovely romances. I really liked Austen’s writing and definitely want to check out more of her works.