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"With a compelling story and historical attention-to-detail, author Liz Curtis Higgs thoroughly drew me into
Here Burns My Candle. Elisabeth Kerr’s fictional portrayal of Ruth brings the Bible to life in a refreshing way. The principles of unconditional love, sacrifice and honor shine through as our faithful, yet imperfect, heroine discovers what it means to follow someone you love, in spite of the difficulties and unknown. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction. Even if you don’t typically read this genre of fiction, I encourage you to read
Here Burns My Candle. I think you’ll find the characters’ emotional struggles very similar to contemporary issues. And, if you happen to be a daughter-in-law, you might even be inspired to strengthen your relationship with your MIL. Liz is working on a sequel...I can’t wait."
—Glynnis Whitwer, SheReads.org
"Higgs' most recent spate of novels takes well-known Old Testament stories and sets them in ancient Scotland. Higgs revisits this concept with
Here Burns My Candle, new in paperback from WaterBrook Press. This time, it is Ruth’s story, set in the midst of the war between the Hanoverians and the Jacobites. The loyalty of family is compounded by loyalty to a human king. Since she has spent much time in Scotland, Higgs can weave sights, smells and sounds into her stories along with the emotions of her characters. If you have read the book of Ruth, you can already sense how the story will play itself out. But keep reading, because Higgs’ characters have more layers than Ruth, Naomi and Orpah. If you love a good historical novel, complex characters, and the safety of knowing you won’t encounter anything coarse, then I recommend this book. I am already waiting for Spring 2011 when the story continues in
Mine Is the Night.”
—Jane Bellmyer, The Cecil Whig
"Based
on the story of Naomi and Ruth but vividly evoking its 18th-century
Scottish setting, Here Burns My Candle is a memorable tale of
divided loyalties and endurance in the face of tragedy, with flawed,
convincing characters and abundant historical detail. An aspect of the
novel I particularly appreciated is Higgs's talent at employing dialect,
which in the hands of the wrong author can be distracting and irritating.
Her skill is especially apparent in a scene where tragic news is broken by
a character speaking in dialect; we never lose sight of the emotion behind
his words. I look forward to the sequel to this novel."
—Susan
Higginbotham, Historical Novels Review
"Christy Award winner Higgs
(Whence Came a Prince) has a faithful following, and...the author's broad appeal makes this a winner for those who love period detail in their
historicals."
—Library Journal
"Liz Curtis Higgs is indeed blessed with a talent and skill for storytelling most of us can only imagine. Special touches help the reader feel as if you are a spectator in the verra room with living characters. Curl up with a plate of scones, pot of hot tea, and start reading. You will be enchanted, entertained, educated, and enlightened!"
—Joni Scott, Stag & Thistle
"I’ve just returned from eighteenth-century Scotland with my nails bitten to the quick and my bags under my eyes from late nights. The culprit? The amazing Liz Curtis Higgs and her incredible novel,
Here Burns My Candle. The bite of the bitter Scottish winter is as tangible as the sweep of the Jacobite rebellion. Setting alone does not make for a page turner and Higgs goes well beyond the stereotypical romance in her characterizations. A fast paced plot and unexpected twists add to the complexity of this amazing read. No sappy and sentimental endings here. Higgs leaves the reader with hope and enough uncertainty to leave us anxiously awaiting the next installment."
—Dana Mentink, Sunny Side Up
"Higgs takes a predictable story and makes it original. She shows her talent through her ability to keep the reader’s attention despite an obvious ending. From her well-crafted wording to her intriguing and realistic characters, Higgs has created a book worth reading, a book that will have readers begging for the soon-to-be-released sequel."
—Harmony Wheeler, ChristianBookPreviews.com
"Christy Award novelist Higgs keeps your heart thumping as these women act out their Biblical roles. Her years of study of historic Scotland paint an authentic picture of 18th-century Edinburgh. Her characters are real, her skill with words is delightful, and her knowledge of the Scots tongue fun to read. Highly recommended for historical fiction collections."
—Hope Irvin Marston, Church Libraries
"Higgs is a master of recasting Bible stories in another setting to share their truth from a different perspective. Here she tackles the story of Ruth and Naomi, moving the action to Edinburgh in the 1740's. As in her previous novels, Higgs retells the story without simply rewording
it—she has cultivated a fresh blossom from the familiar branch. One of my favorite aspects of this book is the rich flavor of Scotland which permeates and seasons the story without obscuring it. Higgs' thorough research gives us descriptions and situations which ring true.
Here Burns My Candle is an addictive book, so be warned. This is not a book to read on coffee breaks unless you are willing to risk being late back to work."
—Mary Beth Magee, AssociatedContent.com
"Here Burns My Candle is a retelling of the Biblical story of Ruth, only set in 1745 Scotland. From the very beginning of this story, I found myself drawn into their world...wanting to know their secrets, their plans and their stories... I mean, I knew the Biblical telling of this drama, but just loved the way it was told with fresh 'eyes'...new circumstances, feelings and dynamics. Taking the time to introduce her readers to these amazing women...Liz really drew me into the story that she weaved...feeling for both mother and wife in a way I really never have before. I realize that the Biblical account is about God's courtship of the hearts of these women, but this book let me see Him pursue and woo them in ways that left my heart full of awe. This is a book that really hit home for me...as I finished this book, I sat with tears in my yes. I recommend it with two thumbs up."
—Sabine, Bina's Pad
"She's back! Liz Curtis Higgs returns to her fans after a four-year hiatus, with her best novel yet, and
Here Burns My Candle is a jewel in her crown. Rich in the tumultuous history of that era, you'll be swept into the past and tiptoe along dark, stone passageways with the Lord and Lady Kerr. Novel Journey and I give
Here Burns My Candle our highest recommendation. It's a must read."
—Ane Mulligan, Novel Journey
"Evocative and beautifully written, Liz Curtis Higgs newest novel
Here Burns My Candle brings a Scottish spin to the Biblical story of Ruth. Like her previous series,
Here Burns My Candle will capture your heart, twist it to the breaking point, and bring you to hope in the end. If you enjoy a good historical
novel...you will fall in love with this story."
—Pepper Basham, Faith and Fiction on Fire
"Based on the first part of the Book of Ruth, Christy-award winner Higgs’s latest richly detailed, leisurely paced novel about two women whose faith brings them closer together is a compelling tale of love, loss, faith, and forgiveness that is certain to please both inspirational readers and fans of well-crafted historical fiction."
—Booklist
"Och! The lass has done it again! Liz Curtis Higgs once again
enthralls her readers with endearing characters, historical facts and a story that is filled with secrets, danger and romance. In other words
—the perfect book!"
—Laura Davis, Interviews and Reviews
"Liz Curtis Higgs. Enough said. What an amazing writer. Here Burns My Candle does not disappoint! The story line will keep you on the edge of your seat turning pages long into the
night. And the characters will capture your heart and stay with you long after you've finished the book. I would highly recommend this book to anyone. It's a beautiful story that will tug at your emotions and inspire you. The story may be set in an era long ago but it offers a powerful message that relates to readers today as well."
—Michelle Vasquez,
Life in Review
“Higgs’ latest novel is stunning in its prose and its historical accuracy. The author transports the reader to another time and place while paralleling the book of Ruth. Readers will anxiously await the second part of the story.“
—Romantic Times TOP PICK

"I thoroughly enjoyed
Here Burns My Candle. The words are beautifully written, aptly portraying the struggles of the characters. It tells of love and faithfulness in the face of hurt and disloyalty. It shows the sacrifices made to protect those you love. Though there is much sadness in the life of the Kerrs, there is also the glimmer of hope.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, or just appreciates a good story."
—Jacky, The Sweetest Petunia
"Liz Curtis Higgs is one of my favorite authors and...she came back with a bang. What better way to retell the biblical story of Ruth and Naomi than to put it in a completely different setting, different time, different country.
I was completely immersed into the Scottish culture right down to the
language. Amazingly well written, the characters were likeable, and I enjoyed the history behind Scotland of 1745. If you're a Liz Curtis Higgs fan, you won't be disappointed."
—Sandra, Diary of a Stay at Home Mom
"A few years ago I was introduced to Liz Curtis Higgs and I fell in love with her writing.
Here Burns My Candle is another book that will find a permanent niche on my bookshelves. Set in Scotland during the year 1745, this story is a more modern retelling of the story of Ruth and Naomi. Higgs weaves an intricate story of love lost, love regained and ultimately of hope in difficult times."
—Jolanthe, No Ordinary Moments
"Prolific
and popular Christy winner Higgs returns to Scotland with this historical
tale set in the 1745 Jacobite rebellion led by Charles Edward Stuart,
grandson of the deposed King James. The characters are remarkably
flawed... Higgs is a stickler for period authenticity and has done her
homework on history and dialect. Fans have been waiting...years for this
novel and will not be disappointed."
—Publishers
Weekly
"There are many things that make Here Burns My Candle a great historical read, as well as a story about personal growth and faith. The transformation of our two Lady Kerrs, one growing in confidence and her relationship with God, the other learning to appreciate the smaller things in life was
well-written...a gradual growth, as these things usually are in life, but often not in fiction. I eagerly await the continuation of the Kerr family story."
—Elizabeth, Thoughts from an Evil Overlord
"Here Burns My
Candle...kept me hooked with its secrets, allegiances and betrayals from cover to cover! Liz Curtis Higgs weaves the fictional story of a family’s tribulations in historic Edinburgh beautifully with scripture. The novel is richly decorated with the language and culture of 18th century Scotland, and the message of unconditional love and forgiveness. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to its sequel!"
—MCA Designs
"Here Burns My Candle is 450 pages of history, romance, and twisting plot lines. I had a hard time setting this book down even for a moment. I was fascinated by the rich character development and historical details. As I read the last several chapters I realized that there must be a second part to this story, and I can hardly wait to read that! I am left applauding Liz Curtis Higgs once again for the writing performance of a lifetime!"
—Melissa Lea, Dancing in the Morning Sun
"This story is carefully laid out drawing the reader in. Liz has an amazing attention for details and historical
research...bringing to life for the reader the city of Edinburgh, the history of the time period, the clothing, the geography, dialect, food eaten, the duties of servants, and the Kirk. I loved loved loved this book, it is now a favorite and I cannot wait until book two is available—Mine Is the Night."
—Annette, A Well-Watered Garden
"Liz Curtis Higgs is a new author to me and I love her writing style which flows smoothly and is very easy to read, even with the Scottish words that are thrown in here and there. The author did a lot of research into that area and time period, the details were very vivid. If you like historical/Christian fiction, I think you will enjoy this book."
—Cym Lowell, Reading at the Beach
"When Lady Elisabeth's story first unfolded, I was afraid it would be an exact rendition of Ruth and Naomi. I thought I'd figure out every twist and turn in the plot and be, well, bored. Silly, silly me! I've been ensconced in this lovely book, the rich world Liz Curtis Higgs created, and the fear of discovery that Lady Elisabeth battles. A beautiful and inspiring book for the intricate relationships we live today, our conflicting loyalties, and the gorgeous glimpse back into history! Just love it!"
—Angie, God Uses Broken Vessels
"Never before have I connected to a character in a book, or on television, like I did with Elisabeth, the main character. I hurt when she hurt. I cried when she suffered loss.
The author did an outstanding job pulling me, the reader, into the story. I’m not sure I can wait until Spring 2011 to read the sequel,
Mine Is the Night. I highly recommend this book!"
—Tami, This Mom's Delight
"What a treat it was! I fell in love with the Kerr family as I traveled through Scottish history and the Scriptures. Higgs obviously did quite a bit of research for the framework for this retelling of the Old Testament story of Ruth and Naomi. I felt that I was transported back through time—and isn’t that what a delightful book can do? The character development was wonderful.
The novel really delves into history and forgiveness and loyalty. Loved it!"
—Faith, Family and Fun
"Liz Curtis Higgs has done a wonderful job with this book. The historical accuracy is astounding.
Readers...will come away from this book feeling educated as well as entertained. Though the women of this book are forced to deal with great tragedy and loss they also learn a deep and abiding faith in God and His ability to see them through.
Here Burns My Candle is an excellent book for fans of Historical and Christian Fiction. I give this one 5 out of 5 apples from my book bag!
—Debbie,
Debbie's Book Bag
"Here Burns My Candle is challenging, thought-provoking...captivating.
The sharp detail of
Higgs' writing is made apparent...from the simple appearance of candles (they flicker, or spark, or are snuffed during key turning points during the story), to the quotes relating to the story's plot at the beginning of each
chapter. This careful attention to detail is, indeed, what makes this story so enjoyable. This effort on Higgs' part carries over into every colorful character's thoughts and dialogue, and the description of the surroundings of Edinburgh.
A very enjoyable read."
—Brett Wilson, Bloggin' Brett
"Here Burns My Candle is an amazing 5-star story that I highly recommend. You will feel the powerful story pull you
in and capture you and you won't want to put the book down! I didn't! I am truly looking forward to the release of the Kerr family's continuing journey,
Mine Is the Night."
—Molly, Book Reviews
"This was my first Liz Curtis Higgs novel. WOW is the first word that comes to mind. There is a lot of attention to detail in this story without being overwhelming. I was hooked by Liz's writing on page one. She entwines you in the lives of these characters that have you celebrating and mourning with each passing moment. This is definitely a must-read novel!"
—Mimi, Woven by Words
"Here Burns My Candle has faith, intrigue, and a bit of romance all set in 18th century Scotland--what more do you need for a great story? The characters are realistic and engaging. Ms. Higgs has a writing style that just flowed off the pages and came to life in my imagination. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I am so excited I have found another new (to me) author and books that I just can't wait to read!"
—Renee, A Path of Joy
"Ms. Higgs’ 27th book, Here Burns My Candle is a first for me. I wasn’t sure what to
expect. I found a woman of intelligence and wit who can not only spin words, but entwine the
emotions...supposing what the developing relationship between Ruth and Naomi might have been like before and up to Ruth’s decision to follow Naomi and Naomi’s God. Do I recommend this book? Yes!"
—Kim Martinez, Staying Focused
"What I find interesting about Higgs is that she takes biblical stories and sets them in long-ago Scotland.
Here Burns My Candle is a take on the story of Ruth and is set in late 18th-century Edinburgh. Elisabeth is beautiful, both inside and out, and from the beginning she endears herself to readers. Sentences like,
'Fear lodged itself in her throat like a stale piece of cake' make me go back over them, relishing Higgs' attention to the tiniest moments."
—Tracey, Beauty for Ashes
"Liz Curtis Higgs whisks us away to eighteenth-century Scotland for a spellbinding tale.
Here Burns My Candle kept me up late at night, turning pages.
Painstaking historical detail, memorable characters and vivid settings combined to transport me. I was sorry when the book ended. Happily, Liz Curtis Higgs is now at work on the sequel,
Mine Is the Night. I look forward to its release."
—Janalyn Voigt, Goodreads
"Here Burns My Candle was worth the wait! Liz's research and attention to detail bring to life 18th century Scotland and makes this reader feel as if she is seeing the scenery firsthand. Her characters are equally so well described, I feel as if I know them and am part of the scene. Liz is an expert at taking old familiar Bible stories and bringing them to life in a fresh, new
way."
—Tamara Walker, BlogTalkRadio
"...an excellent book. Her writing is mature, thought provoking, and even challenging. The content maintains a depth that many Christian historical romance novels lack. All 450 pages are riveting. I will tell you that I put the book down for about a week, though.
I was heartbroken... for all the women in the world who can relate to Elisabeth Kerr’s story. Through this emotional upheaval, Elisabeth turns her eyes to the Bible and comes to know the One True God...and through it she learns even more about sacrifice, loyalty, forgiveness, and unconditional love."
—Granola Mom 4 God
"The writing style of Here Burns My Candle was delightful. The author not only incorporated the fascinating Scottish brogue in her tale, she also adopted an era-appropriate writing style, drawing the reader into mid-eighteenth century Scotland. Vivid descriptions of the daily life of Edinburgh society brought their world to life. All in all, this is a novel I would definitely recommend."
—Ann, Ann's Thoughts
"As one of my favorite authors Liz does not disappoint. The story captures your heart from the beginning and the characters become a part of your life. The story of Ruth has always been a favorite of mine and putting it into this setting and time just enhances the story for me. If you are a lover of historical fiction you will enjoy this book immensely."
—Dianna, Sincerely Me
"I had previously read some of the non-fiction works of Liz Curtis Higgs and loved them, so I was eager to read her fiction!
I wasn't disappointed. This story of love and redemption and hope will leave you longing for more."
—Cathy Bryant, Word Vessel
"Here Burns My Candle had me hooked within the first chapter. I've not read any books by Liz Curtis Higgs before, but...I will definitely be watching for other books she's written. She did such a great job of merging current events of the time period (Prince Charlie's march on Edinburgh) with the the details of the fiction that you truly believe you were watching history happen."
—Ashley, AP Free Writing 101
"Liz Curtis Higgs has a great way of making history come alive again through her writing. The book was set in the 18th century Scotland with a little bit of romance, scandal, faith, redemption, intrigue. If you love historical fiction, this is a must read."
—Tami, Hearts Make Families
"This is unlike any Christian historical novel I’ve read—which was refreshing. The characters are full of flaws and, as a result, very real. Beautifully written, filled with sadness but still hope. I’d recommend this novel to anyone seeking out a historical novel dealing with Scotland. A fascinating look at the time period, the class distinctions and what it must have been like to be a Jacobite—along with a message of faith and hope."
—Lydia, The Lost Entwife
"If you enjoy historical romances, you'll love this book—the betrayal, the honor, the strife, the
loyalty—it all is so neatly crafted to mesmerize you!"
—Amydeane,
Goodreads
"Already a fan of Liz Curtis Higgs via her Bad Girls of the Bible and
Loved By God studies, I was curious to see how I would enjoy her historical fiction.
Here Burns My Candle brings Edinburgh, the Stuart cause, and the society of the day to life. The author's writing is well-done, the history rich, the characters real...Scriptural truth is there to be found.
This is the best kind of story. One that stands on its own as a fully fleshed out novel and yet subtly speaks volumes into your soul."
—Lori,
Hearthside Homeschool Reviews
"The Bard of the Brogue is back—and the brogue never sounded so good. Secrets thread themselves through the Kerr family as deeply and darkly as the forest green of the clan's hunting plaid.
Historical fiction doesn't get much better."
—Bruce Judisch, It Is to Write
"Liz creates a heartfelt, colorful story which touches on all your senses. It’s rich in history as she describes the political takeover of Charles Edward Stuart and how the people loved him. This author has done her research and uncovered some fascinating treasures. Who better to write this story, than someone who loves the land and its people? This was a fascinating read and one you shouldn’t rush through. I’m looking forward to the sequel,
Mine Is the Night...and you will too!"
—Nora St. Laurent, American Christian Fiction Writers Book Club Coordinator
"I was greatly impressed by how Higgs commands the turbulent history of Scotland's past, throws in authentic Scottish dialect (glossary in back of book is helpful), and captures the thoughts of characters stuck in various calamities that life presents.
Here Burns My Candle...would make a thrilling addition to any historical fiction lover's reading list!"
—Amy Sondova, BackseatWriter.com
"Here Burns My Candle was as amazing as I knew it would be! Liz Curtis Higgs can bring the Scottish past to life like no other I know! I devoured her Galloway stories, and cannot begin to tell you how thrilled I am to find another enthralling saga within which to lose myself entirely.
Here Burns My Candle is a story that makes you realize anew that truly, there is nothing new under the sun.
Yet once grace is introduced, even the darkest of circumstances bear the light of hope. This is historic fiction at its finest!"
—Kim, Window To My World
"I greatly enjoyed reading
Here Burns My Candle from the very first page. I am a fan of
Liz Curtis Higgs, but this comes close to being one of my favorite books of hers. She captured my imagination and had me traveling to the 1700’s where there is a mother who loves her boys without abandon, a wife who is faithful to her wandering husband, and a family who is trying to fight to stay together."
—Lori Kasbeer,
Lori's Book Reviews
"Liz Higgs can write! I often gauge the success of a book or movie on the way it engages my imagination.
Here Burns My Candle succeeds on that level. I was certainly drawn into the story and the characters and...I’m very much looking forward to the
sequel. I highly recommend the book."
—TheScroll.org
"This is the first book I have read by Liz Curtis Higgs and it surely won’t be the last!
Here Burns My Candle is a wonderful story set in 18th century Scotland. I found something in each character to help me like and understand them. Liz Curtis Higgs also had a way of sharing God’s love with the reader without becoming pushy in this story that runs parallel with the Biblical account of Ruth and
Naomi."
—Shana Wiseman,
My Three Wisemans
"The historical context is fascinating and the characters are gripping. The story is well written and greatly
anticipated."
—CBA Retailers + Resources
"The setting for
Here Burns My Candle is Edinburgh, Scotland 1745 in the midst of the Jacobite rebellion led by the Bonny Prince Charlie. As a self proclaimed 'history nerd' I am in awe of the time and research in each of her novels. The details are all flawless, and she writes in such a way that you feel you are there. I found
Here Burns My Candle to be totally engrossing. If you enjoy historical fiction, you must add Liz Curtis Higgs' work to your list. You won't be disappointed!"
—Emily, ThePilotsWife.org
"I was totally engrossed by this book and found myself begging for more when I arrived at the end.
Here Burns My Candle is a very clever retelling of the Book of Ruth. The setting was convincing and the characters quite engaging. Walking the streets of Edinburgh with
Marjory and Elisabeth and watching their relationship and love for each other blossom helped me to understand how much Ruth loved her mother-in-law and was willing to follow her anywhere.
Well done!"
—Sarah Ruszkowski, Glory in the Clutter
"Maybe you have to have a weakness for all things Scottish. Maybe you have to have a genuine love for historical fiction. But oh, if you're the right kind of reader, this book is oh-so-satisfying! Set in Scotland in 1745, it follows the Kerr family as it struggles with matters of the heart and mind. I have read and loved three other Liz Curtis Higgs books:
Thorn In My Heart, Fair is the Rose, and Whence Came A
Prince. All are historical fiction set in Scotland. All are amazingly rich and satisfying. All are ones I'd recommend!"
—Becky Laney, Becky's Book Reviews
"The Kerr family has many hidden secrets! Highlander Lady Elisabeth Kerr marries royalist Lowlander Lord Donald Kerr. Danger mounts with Prince Charles Edward Stuart leading the Jacobite revolt into
Edinburgh. The Author does a fantastic job intertwining the relationships of the colorful characters. It’s definitely a page-turner!"
—Jill, Frugal
Plus.com
"From the moment I first picked up the book I was hooked, I saw the tie in to Ruth and Naomi from the beginning and was blessed by how well written this book is. The characters are so beautifully written; they are human, flawed, romantic, simple, complex, and some of them are all the above at the same time. If you are looking for a fantastic historical fiction book to add to your shelf, then this is the one for you."
—Melissa
Mashburn, Mel's World
"Here Burns My Candle is rife with characters that live and breathe. The detailing and historic accuracy is so authentic that readers may be surprised to find themselves at home, rather than roaming the High Street of Edinburgh in full skirts or facing down bonny Prince Charlie and his highland rebels. Deep and meaningful, the novel draws upon a readers emotions and engages their thoughts to such an extent that the book will not be easily forgotten.
Here Burns My Candle is a story that perfectly describes the love, loss, faith and ultimately forgiveness that is found in the Bible’s account of Naomi and her daughter-in-law, Ruth."
—Jessica Hastings, Suite101.com
"Using historical fiction to create a modern retelling of some of our favorite stories from the Bible, Liz Curtis Higgs brings to light some of the most important aspects of Christian principles. I can guarantee you
will like this book."
—Stephanie Buckner, Stephanie's Blog
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