Forbidden***op***

In this story of faith, prejudice, and romance, Wilma Wall has produced that truly rare thing: an inspirational love story which neither insults your intelligence nor bores you to death. Since it is mostly set just after World War II, this will be a good read especially for anyone who, like me, loved Elsie Larson's book "Dawn's Early Light," but was terribly disappointed in its sequel. "Forbidden" strikes me as more like the sequel that should have been written. Those who enjoy "Forbidden" would probably also love "Dawn's Early Light," which takes place slightly earlier. I cannot remember the title of the sequel, whose entire plot seemed to run counter to the main truth affirmed in the first book, but I do remember that the sequel was written under the name Elise (or Elyse) Larson. As for "Forbidden," it's a thought-provoking and enjoyable read; I did, though, notice that even major doctrinal differences occasionally got glossed over.

A war is on between two bitter and powerful enemy nations. A brave young man, persecuted at times because of his ethnicity, steps forward to defend his new homeland. A young woman finds herself conflicted over her love for this soldier, due to the fact that her own community objects to the war and fears those outside their own culture. Can the relationship survive and prosper? Timely issues present themselves in Forbidden (0825439477, Kregel, May 1, 2004, paperback, 316 pages), a novel set amidst the backdrop of Central California during World War II. First time novelist Wilma Wall tells the tale of this inspirational romance in the past, but imbues it with issues with have great relevance in today's modern world.

Forbidden was a thoroughly delightful read. I took this book along to entertain me on a long trip, and I got much more than I expected. At one level, it is a wonderful romance novel, telling the tale of Annie and Donald, two young people who fall in love and have to overcome great odds to be together. At another level, this book provides a window into the world of post-World War II America, showing the prejudices faced by Japanese Americans and the hardships they endured. At a deeper level, this story is about trusting God to guide your path through life, and about the characters' inner struggles to honor God, their families, and themselves. I was touched and inspired by this message. I heartily recommend this book.

FORBIDDEN is the best book I've read so far this year. Annie Penner is a German Mennonite young woman drawn to Donald Nakamura, a Japanese American Baptist. Besides their family's disapproval, they must also contend with the law of the land that makes it illegal for them to marry. Wilma Wall has captured the two diverse cultures perfectly, while crafting a literary story of longing and learning to trust God for your heart's desire. I've met Wilma, but I'm not a fan of this book just to be nice. It's seriously good and I highly recommend it.