Newton and Polly: A Novel of Amazing Grace by Jody Hedlund

This beautifully written moving story of hope concentrates on 8 years (1742-1750), which are the crucial years of Polly and John conveying their purpose in life and what it takes to get there. 

John Newton, English Anglican clergyman, is a rebellious young man and Polly (Mary Catlett) is a pious young lady. They have only one thing in common - love. As life leads them to reach a deeper level of understanding each other and with their growing love for each other with each day, this leads him to write “Amazing Grace” – a beloved hymn in the world.

The story opens with Polly enjoying the tradition of wassailing with her a bit rebellious aunt and her group. They go door-to-door singing and offering ale drink from the wassail bowl in exchange for gifts. Polly’s voice warms the hearts of villagers and one visitor, a sailor by the name of John Newton. 

As faith connects them again, a relationship develops, which is set against historic backdrop of English smuggling issue. “Without the cost of the import duties, the smuggled tea, coffee, tobacco, spirits, and silks were more affordable.” As weeks pass, Polly’s favorite part of the day becomes composing with John. 

Soon after, John sets sail, and Poly, heads to boarding school to get an education she longed for. His life of degradation on sailing boats continues until a stormy night, which opens his eyes and changes his life forever.

“Amazing Grace” – “the most beloved hymn in the world, as well as the most recorded and most sung. It has been sung for over 240 years across all continents and all cultures by billions of people.”

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