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Reviewed by Cherubimaris Casino for Readers' Favorite
The Storm, the Fish and the Vine by Jenny L. Cote is book 10 in the Epic Order of the Seven series. The author introduces character profiles at the beginning of the book. John Newton emerges as a complex, flawed, yet profoundly transformative character whose journey mirrors the biblical story of Jonah. Initially depicted as a rebellious and wayward youth in 1725 England, Newton is headstrong and dismissive of authority, often neglecting wisdom for personal desires, as seen when he misses a ship due to carousing in Aveley. His descent into hardship, including his degrading experience as a "servant of slaves" on Plantain Island, reveals a man grappling with pride, despair, and eventual humility. Newton’s encounters with divine intervention, such as surviving a storm on the Greyhound in 1748, mark pivotal moments of spiritual milestones, leading him to pen Amazing Grace. Guided by animal characters like Max, a loyal Scottish Terrier, and Liz, Newton’s evolution from a slave trader to a compassionate minister underscores the novel’s themes of redemption and grace, culminating in his influential ministry in Olney by 1777.
I found this novel to be captivating. Jenny Cote masterfully blends fact, fiction, and faith. The animal characters add charm and accessibility, making complex historical and spiritual themes digestible. I found myself smiling at their interactions, which brought warmth and lightness to the story. Reading this book felt like a personal journey of discovery, as Newton’s struggles and eventual redemption deeply moved me, reminding me of the transformative power of grace in my own life. The way Cote connects Newton’s story to Jonah’s resonated with me on a spiritual level, sparking moments of introspection about second chances and purpose. The book’s strength lies in its ability to inspire reflection on grace and redemption. Overall, The Storm, the Fish and the Vine is a well-researched tale that left me inspired, uplifted, and eager to share it with others seeking inspiration and historical insight. There needs to be more stories like these in our world today.
