When the Flames Ravaged A Day to Remember Series Book 2 Written by Rhonda Dragomir Published by Barbour Fiction Publication Date: 03.01.24
Genre: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction
5 Stars!
Rhonda Dragomir's debut novel, When the Flames Ravaged, is a mesmerizing journey through the tender heart of tragedy, faith, and redemption set amidst the backdrop of the unforgettable July 6, 1944 Hartford, Connecticut circus fire. This captivating blend of fact and fiction transports readers to a world where the flames of disaster threaten to consume everything in their path, yet amidst the chaos, the light of hope shines brightly.
At the center of the story are Evelyn Benson and Hank Webb, two individuals whose lives intersect in the most unexpected of ways. As the flames ravage the circus tent, Evelyn, a Gold Star Widow, grapples with unimaginable loss, while Hank, disguised behind his clown persona, becomes a pillar of courage and compassion amidst the turmoil.
Dragomir's vivid prose brings to life the sights, sounds, scents, and emotions of the circus, drawing readers into a world of wonder and danger. Through her meticulous research and attention to detail, she captures the soul of this tragic event with haunting authenticity, leaving a permanent imprint on this reader's soul.
Beyond the spectacle of the circus and the devastation of the fire, When the Flames Ravaged is a beautiful tale of faith tested by fire. Through Evelyn and Hank's journeys, Dragomir explores profound questions of belief and doubt, wrestling with the age-old dilemma of why God allows suffering. Yet amidst the ashes, there is a more than a glimmer of hope—a reminder that even in the darkest of times, God's love endures.
As the flames of tragedy give way to the light of redemption, readers are reminded of the transformative power of faith, forgiveness, and God’s sovereignty. Through heartbreaks and triumphs, Dragomir weaves a beautiful tapestry of grace and redemption that resonates with the timeless truths of the Bible and the Christian’s daily faith.
I am amazed by the quality of Dragomir's writing in this debut novel. Her ability to seamlessly blend historical accuracy with compelling storytelling is truly commendable. I applaud Barbour Fiction for consistently publishing novels that not only entertain but also inspire and impact readers. This series, A Day to Remember, continues to be a tribute to the enduring power of faith and the resilience of the human spirit—a must-read series for anyone seeking captivating narratives of hope (earthly and eternal) amidst adversity.
I was blessed to receive an eARC of When the Flames Ravaged from Barbour Fiction publishers through NetGalley. It's important to note that I neither had an obligation to write a favorable review nor received any compensation for my words. This review genuinely reflects my heartfelt assessment and sincere thoughts about this remarkable novel.