I regret that I couldn't finish this. I just found myself losing interest after about two thirds and getting bogged down in the detail. William Grimshaw was no doubt a remarkable man of God in his day and perhaps should have received similar recognition as the likes of Whitefield and the Wesley's. Indeed, he crossed path with these names on a regular basis and swapped pulpits with some of them. However, I'm sure Grimshaw would not have cared that his name was somewhat in the background as he was clearly working for an audience of One.

This biography is perfect for a student of the history of the period or for an in depth study of the man himself. But, the writing is factual rather than inspirational and the author has probably included every single detail she could possibly find about Grimshaw. I congratulate her for the exhaustive research but I really would have preferred more of a story.

I would still recommend this for those with an interest, but it just wasn't for me. ( )

Faith Cook has drawn on unpublished and little-known sources to produce this comprehensive new biography of the man of whom John Wesley said, 'A few such as him would make a nation tremble. He carries fire wherever he goes'. John MacArthur, of Grace to You ministries, writes: 'Grimshaw's unflagging energy and vigorous defence of the faith was matched by a charitable spirit that was a model of true Christlikeness . . . a surprising measure of what he said and wrote is germane to the times in which we live. This is a welcome addition to the rich treasure trove already available from the Banner of Truth. It is also a classic example of what a good biography ought to be.'

This story by Faith Cook left me feeling almost breathless. Once I picked it up I couldn't put it down... and by the end I was in tears. I can't properly describe the impact this book has had. I hope and pray that I can learn in some small way to live as Grimshaw did. Except for Robert Murray M'Cheyne no other individual has so profoundly touched my life. But it was Christ who so consumed the heart and life of Grimshaw and it is the beauty and worth of Christ that comes through these pages. I can only say with that man of God, "What shall I do what can I do to love and serve my God better?!"

Praise God for the testimony of these lives that bear witness to His Majesty. What He has done He can do again. It is good to speak of what He has done and to remember His deeds of old. What a joy to know that brothers and sisters in the faith have a fought a good fight finishing the course with joy having kept the faith of the glorious gospel of the blessed God! ( )