Review of “All Through the Night” by Tara Johnson

All Through the Night is a story set in Washington D.C. in 1861 at the beginning of the American Civil War. The main protagonist, Cadence Piper, has had a stammering problem since her youth and struggles to find not only acceptance from those around her, but also God’s purpose for her life. A chance encounter with a senator sets her on a path to making a difference in the war effort. Although she sings beautifully and is known by many as “The Songbird of the North,” Cadence doesn’t feel satisfied that she is contributing enough, and decides to become a nurse. She is rejected, to her dismay, then inexplicably hired by Dr. Joshua Ivy. Love begins to bloom between these unlikely friends until Cadence suspects Dr. Ivy of a terrible deed. But when a danger far worse than either Cadence or Dr. Ivy could imagine threatens to undermine all they’ve been fighting for, will the duo have the courage to trust God’s leadership to see them through any trial?

I enjoyed this book immensely. The protagonists were very relatable in that they were far from perfect. Their relationship developed somewhat slowly, but it felt genuine. Each was constantly putting the other’s needs above their own, and wanted to help the other no matter what. The characters are a good example of how we sometimes feel less than adequate for anything or anyone; but they come to realize God’s love for them is enough, and that He values each individual no matter what others may think. I was delighted by the references to Scriptures such as 1 John 3:1 and Galatians 1:10. 1 John 3:1 KJV says, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew Him not.” And Galatians 1:10 KJV says, “For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.” Theses verses compliment the story, and the first verse is a great reminder that when we become saved, we become children of God! The second passage reminds us that we shouldn’t try to be people pleasers. Compliments and promotions are great, but in the big scheme of things, what’s most important is pleasing God by telling of His great love for all and of the great sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ.

I look forward to posting another review soon. I’ve been reading and working a lot, so I haven’t had much time to write anything. I hope you’re enjoying my blog, and I pray God strengthens your faith in Him through every situation that comes your way.

Happy reading!