Restoration, Transformation - What we all seek

 Today's post is a book review of one of those rare reads that not only entertains, but gets in your heart like a 48 or 72 hour devotional (can you tell I couldn't put it down), and changes your life.  This is God's ultimate love for us to restore us to Himself through the death of His son, Jesus Christ, and then to transform us into the likeness of His perfect Son.  I'm sure you also will greatly enjoy The Transformation – Blue Church – by Terri Kraus

Unforgettable. A compelling and realistically crafted story of restoration that will touch you, surprise you, and change you.

Every character’s remarkably crafted personality becomes vital to the tapestry of Oliver and Samantha’s private and public journeys as they transform the Blue Church and God transforms them.  As in life, others  come to recognize the transformation  is not just for the building’s Jewish owner (Samantha) and the Christian contractor (Oliver), but that God is in their midst, and His presence has a claim on them too.

If you read much, and tend to assume or expect certain results you will be pleased to discover that Terri Kraus does not limit her skillful characterization or unique storyline to the expected.  Several unique twists made this realistic drama exceptionally satisfying.  I particularly liked how the story began long before the main plot.  It made me appreciate the invisible or unknown people and events God caused to be created and used for my transformation, and gave the tale a sense of the eternal. 

Ms. Kraus’ expertise in the world of design is evident and the desire and love of God for all of mankind’s “interior design” and possibilities of renovation permeates every page with hope.   This is a book you will surely recommend to others, and likely want to read again yourself.  A great choice for book clubs or discussion groups.  Get a taste by watching a brief trailer at this link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZipBBRaEF0