Prayers of a Stranger by Davis Bunn

Prayers of a Stranger, a Christmas Journey is a book to treasure. Its rich emotions and detailed descriptions draw you in and refuse to let go. I am always pleased and surprised when I come across a book that I want to reread as soon as I finish it, and this is one of those books.

A year ago, Amanda Vance suffered a personal tragedy. It caused her to withdraw from everyone she possibly could, to leave the job doing what she loved, and to become a shadow of the joyful woman she once was. And it caused a distance to develop between her and her husband.

Chris Vance keeps up a strong front around his wife, not telling her all the troubles and problems happening at his job. But the worries are constantly on his mind, as are his worries about Amanda and her inability to move beyond her grief.

Just weeks before Christmas, the opportunity suddenly arises for Amanda to travel with a neighbor to Israel for a week. Although somewhat reluctant, she accepts the invitation. Little does she realize the healing that trip will bring about. Unforeseen events and the prayers of a stranger give her the opportunity to return to the peace and joy she once knew.

This story has a way of getting into your heart. Amanda and Chris will begin to seem like people you know well-- or maybe you will even see a bit of yourself in them and the struggles they face. This is a story of the hope and joy only found in the loving arms of our Savior.

The rich descriptions only add to the pleasure of the read. All your senses will be filled with the sights, smells, and sounds of Jerusalem. You begin to get the feeling that you are there with Amanda.

Prayers of a Stranger is a book I would eagerly recommend to anyone, and not only to read at Christmas time. It is a book for all seasons, reminding us that the joy and hope of Christmas is not only for one day a year. It is for all time.

You can find the Thomas Nelson product page here: Prayers of a Stranger 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Booksneeze.com <http://BookSneeze.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html>: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."