Review by summerday307 -- Hearts Set Free by Jess Lederman

[summerday307]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Hearts Set Free" by Jess Lederman.]

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2 out of 4 stars

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Hearts Set Free by Jess Lederman is a work of Christian fiction that includes some real historical figures and epitomizes the beauty of God’s grace. The book starts with Luke and Yura who are leaving Alaska to find Victor, Luke’s Father who left them for another woman. The story then moves on to include Joan and Tim who are doing a documentary on “Why God is not the answer “ along with David Gold, Jack Johnson, Georges LeMaitre, Bugsy Seigel and including a host of other characters. David is a theology student turned boxer that questions how to love God. Georges LeMaitre is a Belgian scientist and Roman Catholic priest whom is the father of the Big Bang Theory but wasn’t given that credit. This story includes a lot of characters that intertwine throughout the years 1914 to 2011.

What I liked most about this book was the evidence of God’s grace and forgiveness. Jess Lederman depicts the reality of the struggles, spiritual and physical, that humans face. It took at least one quarter of the book for it to capture my attention but it was very interesting to see how each character learned about God and his forgiveness. I believe it dealt with some very real doubts and questions that people have about God. I was very curious as to what, if any, explanations there would be and I was not disappointed. There were scriptures and even some scenes that mirrored Bible events, like Jacob wrestling with God.

There were some things that I did not like about the book. The biggest issue I have is the curse words in it. I know they depict reality but I still feel that they should not be used in a Christian book especially when Jesus' name is used as an expletive. I also did not like the fact that the character list was so long and that the book jumped around constantly. It was difficult to keep track of who was who and what year you were in because it went back and forth so often.

I gave this book only 2 stars out of 4. I would have given it more if the swearing would not have been in it, even though it was difficult to read for the first 10 chapters. I didn’t feel right giving it less since the Gospel is represented in every other way so well. Despite all that I disliked about it this was a good book that could really help someone understand God just a little more, even someone who has served him for years.

I would recommend this book to adults and teenagers but I believe that due to the curse words, not just your everyday barnyard words but it even used Jesus' name as an expletive, it would not be appropriate for a teenager. I do not think that the “end justifies the means.” The book had no spelling or grammatical errors and was probably professionally edited.

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Hearts Set Free
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[Adanna Inya]

I think that the book is a thought provoking one filled with "rhema" moments. But I don't like that the name of Jesus Christ is used as an expletive, and the fact that it lacked cohesiveness. Thank you for an honest review

[Dentarthurdent]

I'm glad that the book tackles realistic questions in a satisfactory way, more so that it is scripturally backed up. It's a shame about the issues. Great review!

[kdstrack]

I enjoyed your review! The use of profanity would be in sharp contrast with the rest of the book's message. I agree with your comments on this. I like the author's theme of grace, but as you state, he weakens his message with the use of expletives and profanity. Great insights!! Thanks.

[Fernando222]

I like that this religious book focuses and acknowledges the all-sufficient grace of God. Your review is quite detailed. Thanks

[Lucas Saturnino]

Hi Scott, I completed my Stripe verification more than 24 hours ago and haven’t been promoted to Level 6 yet. Could you please check on that for me? Thank you!