Book Reviews by Lady Katy

Chasing Mona Lisa - Tricia Goyer & Mike Yorkey

2012-01-26T06:00:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

One enigmatic smile. Two passionate protectors. And a relentlessly ticking clock.

August 1944. Paris is on the cusp of liberation. As the soldiers of the Third Reich flee the Allied advance, they ravage the country and steal countless pieces of irreplaceable art. In fact, Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring will stop at nothing to claim the most valuable one of all--the Mona Lisa--as a postwar bargaining chip.

But the woman with the mysterious smile has some very determined protectors. Can Swiss OSS agents Gabi Mueller and Eric Hofstadler rescue Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece before it falls into German hands?

With nonstop action and intrigue, Chasing Mona Lisa is sure to get your adrenaline pumping as you join the chase to save the most famous painting in the world. From war-ravaged Paris to a posh Swiss chateau, the race is on--and the runners are playing for keeps.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ***

Political intrigues and personal motives run high in a plot that surrounds the priceless painting, the Mona Lisa. The different Resistance groups in France has finally driven out the Germans from their beloved city. But the danger and adventure is far from over for four certain people. When Swiss spies, Eric and Gabi, learn that the Mona Lisa is in danger, they join up with Resistance member Bernard and art curator Colette and head off to get to the painting before the thief’s do!

Unfortunately, I just couldn’t warm to this book. Especially when it came to the characters—I just couldn’t really connect with them. They didn’t seem real to me. And the writing style turned me off a bit—there was too much telling and not enough showing.

The ending confused me a bit. Not with Eric and Gabi’s story, but with Bernard and Colette. Maybe I missed something, but when the end came…I was left wondering what, exactly, happened to those two.

While I wasn’t as enthralled with Chasing Mona Lisa as I’d like to with a book that says it’s an action/adventure, I did enjoy the read. Lots of history packed within these pages, to be sure! Tricia Goyer and Mike Yorkey weave really rich facts and dive deep into French art and how France was liberated from German control.

I reviewed this book for Revell via Litfuse. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

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Firethorn - Ronie Kendig

2012-01-23T14:47:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

Blown and dismantled, Nightshade is ready to repay the favor.

Former Marine and current Nightshade team member Griffin "Legend" Riddell is comfortable. So comfortable he never sees the set up that lands him in a maximum security prison, charged with murder. How can he prove his innocence behind bars?

Covert operative Kazi Faron is tasked with reassembling Nightshade—the black ops team someone dissected. Breaking Griffin out of a federal penitentiary amid explosive confusion may turn out to be her last assignment. What will it take to convince the fugitive that whoever set him up has also dissected the Nightshade team? As Kazi and Griffin race to rescue the others and discover the traitor, love begins to awaken in their hearts.

Can a covert operative and the felon she's freed overcome their mutual distrust long enough to save Nightshade? Will anything prepare them for who—or what is coming?

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: *****

Anyone who’s read anything by Ronie Kendig knows that she can deliver “rapid-fire fiction”, and she does not disappoint in Firethorn, the grand finale for the Discarded Heroes series! Open this book and instantly you will be sucked into the latest adventure for the Nightshade team. Except, instead of being sent on a mission…they are the mission—to regroup back together and hunt down whoever tried to permanently dismantle the Nightshade team.

What I found most intriguing about Firethorn is that it wasn’t just about Griffin (Legend) and Kazi—though they are very central characters—but touches on each one of the members of the Nightshade team. Including their wives. Getting to see the men and their families from previous books—Max and Sydney, Colton and Piper, Canyon and Dani—fight for their livelihood was the most gripping part of the book. After growing so attached to all of them in Nightshade, Digitalis, and Wolfsbane, I was nearly out of my mind with worry when the Nightshade was targeted and the members scattered.

Bringing in Kazi—an assassin who’s always worked alone—was a really neat twist in contrast to the tight teamwork that Griffin is used to with the Nightshade team. This book almost rivaled Wolfsbane’s position as my favorite out of the series. Almost. I admit I was a little depressed on finishing this book—one ending just completely took me by surprise. And while I don’t hate the book—by any means!—it still...really saddened me. (No spoilers in this review, so that’s all I’m saying!)

Ronie Kendig is at the top of her game with Firethorn. The writing grips you, the characters (once again) spring from the pages, and the action is non-stop! It’s so hard to believe the Discarded Heroes series has come to an end. The characters have become so special and personal to me! But I know whatever book/series she comes out with next, I am going to love—It’s Ronie Kendig we’re talkin’ about here, a lady who writes my kind of suspense...how can I not??

I reviewed this book for FIRST Wild Card Blog Tours. Special thanks to Ronie Kendig for sending me a review copy. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

Shadowed in Silk - Christine Lindsay

2012-01-21T11:58:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

She was invisible to those who should have loved her.

After the Great War, Abby Fraser returns to India, where her husband is stationed with the British army. She has longed to go home to the land of glittering palaces and veiled women . . . but Nick has become a cruel stranger and a cruel father to their three-year old son. It will take more than her American pluck to survive.

Major Geoff Richards, broken over the loss of so many of his men in the trenches of France, returns to his cavalry post in Amritsar. His faith does little to help him understand the ruthlessness of his British peers toward the Indian people he loves. Nor does it explain how he is to protect Abby Fraser and her child from the husband who mistreats them.

Amid political unrest, inhospitable deserts, and Russian spies, tensions rise in India as the people cry for the freedom espoused by Gandhi. Caught between their own ideals and duty, Geoff and Abby stumble into sinister secrets . . . secrets that will thrust them out of the shadows and straight into the fire of revolution.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: *****

I don’t think I’ve ever read a book set in this specific time period—the British Raj. Before reading Shadowed in Silk, I knew nothing about this. That all changed once I finished this book. Christine Lindsay has written a wonderful debut—the first in a series, too, looks like! I look forward to reading and hearing more about this talented author in the future.

Cam was such a dear. Through and through. I loved seeing the affections between mother and son as Abby watched over and protected her precious son. Geoff seemed like a great guy to get to know. Protective, kind, passionate…all the quality’s you want in a husband. And Abby discovered that right off! I felt for her, as she tried to deal with being married to a man who never cared for you. How sad!

The numerous Indian words, on occasion, got frustration, as I would have to go back to the beginning, find out what the word meant, before continuing on. But maybe that’s because I have such a bad memory, I couldn’t remember more than “Ayah” (Nanny), and was always forgetting what I’d just looked up. The plot was ingenious, and I loved the mystery of who “Vadik” was. Very well done!

Having a romance where one of them is married is always tricky, but I’m delighted to say that Lindsay handles the situation very well. Both Abby and Geoff continually steer away from their affections toward each other and don’t even voice it to the other until Abby’s situation changes. There is a husband who has a mistress while his wife is away, but besides this, the book is entirely clean and a wealth of historical information about the British Raj.

Debut books are always so crucial to an author, as that’s their “first impression” to the reading world. And I am glad to say that Christine Lindsay’s book passed with flying colors! Shadowed in Silk was brilliant, unique, and touching on a subject that I haven’t really seen in Christian fiction.

I reviewed this book for FIRST Wild Card Blog Tours. Special thanks to Christine Lindsay for sending me a review copy. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

His Steadfast Love - Golden Keyes Parsons

2012-01-12T12:03:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

It isn't until the Civil War comes to her doorstep that Amanda Bell must choose between love and family.

It's the spring of 1861 on the Gulf Coast of Texas. Amanda never thought she would marry because of a promise she made to her dying mother, but her attraction to Captain Kent Littlefield is undeniable.

When Texas secedes from the Union, her brother Daniel aligns with the Confederate States, while Kent remains with the Union troops.

Her heart is torn between the two men she is closest to and the two sides of the conflict. Amanda prays to God for direction and support, but hears only silence. Where is God in the atrocities of war-and whose side is He on?

Amanda senses her life is at a turning point. She must trust God to deliver her family through the chaos of war with her heart and her faith intact.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ***

Reading His Steadfast Love was almost like stepping inside the movie Gods and Generals…almost. The setting, the characters, the things that they have to go through during the war all came to life through Golden Parsons writing style. Why do I say “almost”? Because I personally think the movie portrayed the reasons and politics behind the war better than this book did.

While the writing was good, I wasn’t overly impressed with the book as a whole, sadly. The characters seemed flat—I never really connected with them. And there were several scenes that I felt too awkward/unnatural. (Like when someone is suddenly sick, within an hour the doctor proclaimed the invalid was going to die. Just like that. And in front of invalid, too! All I could think was “What terrible bedside manners!”)

The point that Parson takes—that slavery was THE reason for the war—bugged me. A lot! Several times characters within His Steadfast Love mentioned how the war was fought because of slavery…when it really wasn’t. Not all the way, at least. Slavery was only a part of it. This particular annoyance is more than likely something only I would find frustrating. But there it is. But I did like how Parsons showed the gradual change in Amanda’s behavior toward her slaves. Very well done!

Parsons detail to historical times was really good, taking the reader back in time and throwing them into such a difficult time period in our country’s history. The romance wasn’t my favorite, but that may be because I never really was able to connect to either of the main characters. Her writing style was tight and well done, and while I didn’t enjoy His Steadfast Love as much as I had hoped, I am sure there are other readers who would enjoy this book.

I reviewed this book for the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance. Thanks to the publishers, Thomas Nelson, for sending me my review copy. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

The Captive Heart - Dale Cramer

2012-01-10T14:45:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

The Epic Story of an Amish Community in Peril.

Ravaged by disease, preyed upon by ruthless bandits, the Bender family’s second year in Mexico has taken a grievous turn. Faced with impossible choices, the expatriate Amish discover, more than ever before, what it means to live by faith and not by sight.

But it’s Miriam who must make the hardest choice as her heart takes her on a new and dangerous course. Domingo. “He is gentle,” his sister said, “until someone he loves is threatened.” Is Miriam that someone?

“Cualnezqui,” he often calls her – the Nahuatl word for Beautiful one. The chiseled native has proven himself a man of principle, grace, and power. Yet is he the pearl of great price for whom Miriam would sacrifice everything, or is he merely a friend? Tormented by conflicting emotions, she’s haunted by vivid dreams: Dressed in the coarse cotton pants and shirt of a peasant, she stands on the precipice of a sun-washed ridge searching desperately for Domingo. Domingo the fierce. Domingo the protector. Domingo the forbidden.

Inspired by actual events!

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ***

While The Captive Heart had more events and action packed within its pages than the first book in the series, I still wasn't crazy about the book. Mostly because I felt there were so many loose ends when the book ended. I understand an author wanting to leave some questions there, in anticipation of another book, but I personally felt it was too many. There wasn’t enough closer.

The book takes off much faster than the first, combining more adventure into this tale! When Rachel is kidnapped and taken by bandits to be sold as a slave…oh yeah, that amps it up! And when Jake sets out to save her—though he won’t kill anyone—gives the story an interesting twist. I easily flew through the pages, enjoying this book now that I was used to Dale Cramer’s writing style.

There was one interesting part when the Bender sisters are talking about “Bed courtship” that I thought a bit…interesting! The author does specify that the practice has kinda died away, but I'm just surprised that it ever begun! Yikes, sounds kinda...out there!

I don’t mean for this review to sound like I am totally negative about The Captive Heart, as there were some things I enjoyed. And doubtless others would enjoy this book more than I did. And if Dale Cramer did publish a third book to this series, I would probably get it to read. Just so I can know how everything ends up for the Bender family! :-)

I reviewed this book for Bethany House Publishers. Thanks to Jim for sending me a review copy. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

Paradise Valley - Dale Cramer

2012-01-09T19:56:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

Inspired by Actual Events!

"I would do a great many things for you." Even at 16, Jake's handsome features hold the calm certainty and patient confidence of a man, and Rachel Bender knows--Jake Weaver is the one.

Rachel will grow into a strong young woman with powerful gifts--but in a far away country without her Jake. In 1921, Ohio's new law forces Caleb Bender's family to seek santucary in the wilds of Mexico, where the government will not interfvere with their Amish way of life or take their children from them. Nor will it protect them from the bandits terrorizing the countryside.

In an unfamiliar land where no one speaks thier language or knows their ways, the Benders establish a homestead in exile. Sisters Emma, Rachel, and Miriam find strengths unimagined, gifts unexpected, and yearnings beyong their deepest dreams. Even steadfast Caleb is compelled to wrestle with the demands of faith, only to discover that love has its own demands.

Paradise Valley -- a tale of love, danger, and redeeming faith.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ***

I am not a big Amish fan, but Dale Cramer's book, Paradise Valley, was very interesting and very different than other Amish books I’ve read. Which was a nice change. I mean, these Amish people came face to face with bandits and several times the girls were nearly abducted! Yep, not a typical docile Amish story, to be sure! And the fact that this is based on real events—that there really was an Amish family who went to Mexico to start a new colony—was awesome!

I think maybe my biggest problem with this book was the writing style. It was very different than what I usually like—told more as a narration of Rachel's story then from deep POV "IN" Rachel's head. And the book was rather slow paced for a good majority of it. There are two characters who sleep together, and while there are no details given, I had a slight problem with it. There are never any consequences or recuperations after their sin is found out by the parents. I just wished I could have seen some repenting for their sin.

That aside, Paradise Valley makes for a good story, and I did enjoy reading it—even if I did start skimming a lot. The characters are warm and endearing, and while sometimes the emotions seemed a bit stilted, by the end of the book this Amish family had grown on me. It’s amazing how, because they couldn’t teach their children their own way, they embarked on an adventure that forever changed the lives of each character. Paradise Valley is a book Amish fans will enjoy.

The Accidental Bride - Denise Hunter

2012-01-09T13:27:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

Two high-school sweethearts, a wedding reenactment, and one absent-minded preacher. Is it a recipe for disaster or a chance for a new beginning?

Shay Brandenberger is a survivor. She's lived through a crazy childhood, a failed marriage, and single parenthood-with her confidence intact.

But not for long. Because when Shay participates in her town's Founder's Day wedding reenactment, she finds herself face-to-face with the one man who takes her breath away and leaves her weak in the knees: Travis McCoy.

Travis is back in town after years way on the rodeo circuit. His one regret in life is breaking Shay's heart when they were high-school sweethearts. He's determined to get it right this time.

So when their Founder's Day "marriage" is accidentally made official, Travis seizes the day. Can Shay put aside her pride to let Travis help her, or will their accidental marriage be dissolved before it can begin?

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ****

The Accidental Bride will have you gripping the pages, breathless. And not the kind of suspense 'breathless-ness' us thriller-readers might think. But a romantic kinda suspense that has you cheering—urging—Travis to prove to Shay that he's a changed man. It's definitely a book that, when you read the last page, you close with a content sigh. You go through such turmoil to get to the 'happy ever after', you're just too thrilled to think of anything but, "He did it! They're together! Yay!"

Travis was great. Sure, he was a knucklehead in his youth, but now he’s wiser—gotta love a guy who admits he was wrong and tries so hard to fix it! Shay, personally, was a little harder for me to like. Okay, a lot harder! There were a few times I wanted to knock her upside the head and tell her to open her eyes—to see what an awesome man Travis turned out to be. I do understand some of her hesitation…but after five months?! How could she keep doubting?

In The Accidental Bride, there comes a point where their vows are consummated, and there are several passionate kisses. Kisses are described, but past that, the author doesn't go into too much detail except to mention that it takes place. There’s also mentioning of a "necking" in the hay stall and them taking a shower together. It could have done without some of the more heated, intimate scenes, but Denise Hunter more just toed the line, in my opinion.

The idea of becoming accidentally, and so irreversibly, married to someone without even knowing was kinda far-fetched for me. And the author even says that she stretched a few laws and such to make it work. But it did make for an interesting story. I loved the writing style in this book—so sharp and bold, carrying the thoughts, feelings, and reactions of the character right to the reader. It felt so real, so believable. The Accidental Bride is a book that fans of Denise Hunter are going to love! :-)

I reviewed this book for FIRST Wild Card Blog Tours. Special thanks to Audra Jennings at the B&B Media Group for sending me a review copy. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

Unlawfully Wedded Bride - Noelle Marchand

2012-01-07T11:10:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

"We ordered a husband for you."

Kate O'Brien can't believe her ears. She's been married, by proxy, to a man she's never met, thanks to her young siblings' meddling! Kate offers her "groom" room and board at her farm until the annulment is granted—nothing more. After all, what else could this predicament be but a blunder that needs fixing?

Nathan Rutledge arrives on Kate's doorstep, seeking a fresh start—with a family that needs his help more than Kate will admit. The shadows in both their pasts will be no match for a bright new beginning. But first, he has to convince a woman frightened of love to throw caution to the Texas wind…

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: *****

Often in a love story the size of Unlawfully Wedded Bride, the romance is not very realistic—at least, not realistic that the characters could become so ‘madly in love’ so quickly. But, delightfully, that was not the case in Noelle Marchand’s debut novel. Unlawfully Wedded Bride.

Kate, Nathan, Ellie, Sean, Lawson…they all made for a wonderful, fun, and endearing cast of characters. After the death of their parents, Kate takes on the responsibility of running their farm and caring for her siblings, Ellie and Sean. I could really feel the strain of growing up so quickly in how she acted and what she did. And I loved watching how Nathan, slowly but surely, helped her ease those burdens that weighted so heavily on her.

From the start, I am sure that other readers will take an instant liking to Nathan. There was just something about him, from that first scene written from his point of view, that I liked! And as the story continues, and as you learn more about his winsome ways, tender heart, and hardworking hands throughout the book, you begin to fall in love with him right alongside Kate. It isn’t long until I was saying, “Don’t get an annulment, Kate!” ;-)

The book moves along at a good pace and I found it easy to stay lost within the town of Peppin and the lives of Kate and Nathan. And the humorous moments that were included on occasion were so sweet and memorable. There was even a bit of action that I had not expected toward the end of the book! Once or twice the scene kinda jumped without my realizing it, and it threw me a bit, but not too much.

This historical read, while it might look like a small book, packs a wonderful, inspirational message within its pages. A book you do not want to miss out on! With Unlawfully Wedded Bride as an introduction to Noelle Marchand’s talent, I am sure I will be seeing more of her work in the future.

I reviewed this book for the author. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

The Maid of Fairbourne Hall - Julie Klassen

2012-01-04T12:25:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

Pampered Margaret Macy flees London in disguise to escape pressure to marry a dishonorable man. With no money and nowhere else to go, she takes a position as a housemaid in the home of Nathaniel Upchurch, a suitor she once rejected in hopes of winning his dashing brother. Praying no one will recognize her, Margaret fumbles through the first real work of her life. If she can last until her next birthday, she will gain an inheritance from a spinster aunt--and sweet independence. But can she remain hidden as a servant even when prying eyes visit Fairbourne Hall?

Observing both brothers as an "invisible" servant, Margaret learns she may have misjudged Nathaniel. Is it too late to rekindle his admiration? And when one of the family is nearly killed, Margaret alone discovers who was responsible. Should she come forward, even at the risk of her reputation and perhaps her life? And can she avoid an obvious trap meant to force her from hiding?

On her journey from wellborn lady to servant to uncertain future, Margaret must learn to look past appearances and find the true meaning of "serve one another in love."

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: *****

Julie Klassen is the 21^st century's Jane Austen! I knew she was good after reading The Apothecary's Daughter, but The Maid of Fairbourne Hall really blew me away. Open this book and Klassen will transports you back to the early 1800s, in England, when upper-class Margaret Macy suddenly finds her life altered to that of a lowly housemaid.

The first character that struck me the strongest and grabbed my attention was wild-mannered and dashingly good looking Nathaniel Upchurch. At his first appearance after years in Barabdos, I was glued to the pages and instantly intrigued about this man. Margaret took a little longer for me to warm up to, but through no fault of the author! She was just a bit too uppity. Once she was brought low and humbled as a housemaid—and learned so many lessons about the people who work so hard behind the scenes—she grew on me.

For being a rather thick book, I flew through the pages, easily. And found it very hard to put it down at the end of each chapter. Klassen excels at keeping the reader riveted to the pages, both with her awesome, intricate storyplot and her deep, endearing characters.

The things that Margaret had to go through as a housemaid certainly made for some amusing moments. Especially her first time at emptying a chamber pot! Haha, I was laughing out loud—how gross! As to questionable content, there really wasn’t any worth mentioning. A few of the male characters have less than honorable designs toward women, especially the servant girls, but details are never given.

If you love the Jane Austen classics, then you have to try one of Julie Klassen’s novels and discover that Austen’s brilliance with regency romances lives on! I was swept away in this lovely tale where the reader gets a behind the scenes look at what life was like for the servants in a 19^th century English manor. You won’t be disappointed in The Maid of Fairbourne Hall!

I reviewed this book for the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance. Thanks to the publishers, Bethany House, for sending me my review copy. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

Warring Spirits - April Gardner

2011-12-31T11:55:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

Three cultures, one battle. A thousand warring spirits.

In 1816 Georgia, escaped slaves control the land just beyond the American border in Las Floridas. Lost somewhere between white and black worlds, Milly follows hope to the only place that can offer her refuge—the place Georgians are calling Negro Fort. The first, sweet taste of freedom convinces Milly that surrender is not an option. Death would be more welcome.

Major Phillip Bailey has orders to subdue the uprising and return the runaways to their masters. Forced to fight alongside Creek warriors—the same who etched the scars into his mind and flesh—Phillip primes himself for battle. But inside, a war already rages—return for the woman he thought lost to him or concede her to the enemy she loves; follow orders or follow his heart.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: *****

Warring Spirits completely swept me off my feet! Revisiting characters from Wounded Spirits and discovering new ones, this next book in the Creek Country Saga is sure to win April Gardner new fans everywhere! It’s always a wonderful surprise when the second book turns out even better than the first (which was awesome to begin with! ;-), and that’s exactly what I discovered in Warring Spirits. That first scene drew me into this fantastic adventure alongside two amazing characters—Phillip the soldier and Milly the slave.

For Phillip Bailey, shackled to his haunting past, he understands and quickly come to sympathize with Milly—the young slave girl who looks every bit like a white person except for her frizzy hair. Throughout Warring Spirits, both Phillip and Milly are taken on a wild adventure as each struggles to find peace in a war-torn land. The ultimate journey for freedom seems to be continually thwarted for Milly, and no amount of Phillips secret aid helps her. It isn't until these two give the prize they both long for—freedom—to the Lord, that He returns it to them ways they could never have imagine.

Everything about this book was delightful. From the very accurate, if gruesome, details of the history, to the believable characters. April isn’t a cliché author, that’s for sure—everything within this book is as close-to-life as possible for a book, and I love it even more for that. An issue that is present in this book is the use of beautiful slave girls for their masters. While April does an outstanding job of not going into too much detail, a slavegirl is raped within the book, though the actual incident takes place “off scene”. This isn’t an easy matter to write about, I am sure, but I commend April for not steering away from the reality of that time period—as slaves were often used for such depravity by their masters.

From cover to cover Warring Spirits is a powerful, action-packed, romantic, emotional book with a message that will remain with you for a long time to come. April Gardner is a gem of an author worth setting alongside the other amazing historical fiction writers on my shelf (Jody Hedlund, Kaye Dacus, and Laura Frantz, to name a few!). Loved every moment I spent in Warring Spirits and was sad to see it come to an end!

I reviewed this book for the author. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

Fairer Than Morning - Rosslyn Elliott

2011-12-24T09:13:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

Ann dreams of a marriage proposal from her poetic suitor, Eli—until Will Hanby shows her that nobility is more than fine words.

On a small farm in 19th-century Ohio, young Ann Miller is pursued by the gallant Eli Bowen, son of a prominent family. Eli is the suitor of Ann's dreams. Like her, he enjoys poetry and beautiful things and soon, he will move to the city to become a doctor.

Ann travels to Pittsburgh, accompanying her father on business. There she meets Will Hanby, a saddle-maker's apprentice. Will has spent years eking out an existence under a cruel master and his spirit is nearly broken. But Ann's compassion lights a long-dark part of his soul. Through his encounters with Ann's father, a master saddler, Will discovers new hope and courage in the midst of tremendous adversity.

When the Millers must return to Ohio and their ministry there, Will resolves to find them, at any cost. If Will can make it back to Ann, will she be waiting?

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: *****

It’s always great coming across great reads, especially when said book is from a debut author. So much talent in their first work promises a lot for their future books! And so it is with Rosslyn Elliott’s debut, Fairer than Morning.

Ann Miller was a spunky, hardworking, and mature woman that put family before herself. Getting to know her and the sacrifices she went through for her father and sisters made Ann come alive for me. Even if she was an overzealous romantic—especially where Eli and poems were concerned—there’s so much strength in her character! And Will Hanby’s story was so amazing. Heart wrenching, really. After going alongside him as he endured so much by the hand of his master, my heart was singing as God opened his darkened heart to see the light of the world.

Rosslyn knows how to write believable, deep characters. And she knows how to spin a story! I kept trying to guess how everything would work out, but I was continually surprised by the twist the plot would take. After a while, I buckled down to read till the end, simply because I just had to find out how Ann and Will can ever get their 'happy ever after'. And the bits of suspense, action, and adventure that were thrown in added an awesome tone to the book.

Two people end up sleeping together, but it happens ‘off scene’ and consequences follow. The proposal scenes weren’t my favorite, personally. Twice, Ann was proposed to and then, when she was wavering in her decision, the man kissed her passionately before repeating his request. I felt it was a bit unfair of the guy to coerce her into a decision when she was so obvious befuddled by the kiss.

But, again, that’s just my personal thoughts and didn’t take away from the delightful story that I enjoyed from cover to cover. Will was my favorite—I almost felt as if he rose up from the pages. The author paints his dark story so vividly through her words. I will definitely be keeping an eye out for the next book in the Saddler’s Legacy. Historical romance readers everywhere would do well to pick up Fairer than Morning. Rosslyn has penned one sweeping romance!

I reviewed this book for the author. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

Wayward Son - Tom Pollack, Jim Alves, & John Loftus

2011-12-24T09:12:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

A Powerful Tremor Unearths an Ancient Secret.

Buried near Italy’s Mt. Vesuvius is a fortified observatory containing artifacts dating to the earliest record of human events. Only one person—the Getty Museum’s Amanda James—can unlock the mysterious doors that guard the chamber.

But once inside, Amanda is shocked to discover evidence left behind by a notorious Biblical killer—who long ago wandered off the pages of history.

When a strange relic unveils the miraculous truth about this villain, Amanda must confront sinister forces intent on suppressing her stunning revelation—before it alters the destiny of millions.

The first novel in a series, Wayward Son propels the reader back in time, where epic adventures in Egypt, Greece, China and Rome collide with modern-day intrigue and suspense. Journey with Amanda and witness the extraordinary saga of the world's original Wayward Son!

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ***

Journey with Amanda James in Wayward Son as she uncovers a vast amount of artifacts hidden away and that, eventually, leads her to the story of Cain. Yes, Cain—the first man born on earth and the first man to murder. This was an interesting character to pick to follow throughout history, but these three authors take the idea that part of Cain’s curse was longevity, and spun that into this masterful adventure that will please many history lovers.

Amanda James was so much fun to get to know, that I must admit I was really sad and confused when, not long into the book, she disappeared from the pages of this story as Cain took the front seat. The authors portrayed Cain in a very different light then what, I think, people normally view him as. To put it simply, they showed how human Cain really was. Which I thought very neat. The idea that Cain survived so many centuries was a little far-fetched for me (especially that he was able to stow away on board the Ark), but, hey, its fiction. Just gotta stretch your imagination a bit more for this one.

There are a few bad words, and since Cain has such a long lifespan, he marries several women over the ages. Once or twice sleeping with a woman given to him, but who's not his wife. Not much detail is given in the scenes, though, so I didn't have any problem with them.

I guess what didn’t hit off so well with me in Wayward Son was that the whole plot wasn’t really what I was expecting. The continual jumping back and forth from historic times, to modern day, to days in Amanda's past was very abrupt and, honestly, confusing. It wasn’t until toward the end of the book that I finally figured out why they kept jumping back and forth. I think I would’ve rather liked to read this book as a biblical read, strictly from Cain’s perspective, instead of the modern day wove in. But, that’s just me!

The writing was good, details on the lifestyle, artifacts, and people very minute. Maybe too much at times—at least for me. This book spans a very long time, and through the courses of its pages, really makes you think. Even though I am not crazy about the book, I did enjoy reading it. And while I won’t read it again, I do recommend it to other readers. If you enjoy a mild-paced adventure with a twist on the Bible that takes you back in time and through the ages with Cain, I encourage you to try Wayward Son.

I reviewed this book for GlassRoad PR. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland - Roseanna White

2011-12-15T07:00:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

In 1784 peace has been declared,

but war still rages in the heart of Lark Benton.

Never did Lark think sheÂ’d want to escape Emerson Fielding, the man she’s loved all her life, but then he betrays her with her cousin. She flees to Annapolis, Maryland, the country’s capital, and throws herself into a new circle of friends who force her to examine all she believes.

Emerson follows, determined to reclaim his bride. Surprised when she refuses to return with him, he realizes that in this new country he has come to call his own, duty is no longer enough. He must learn to open his heart and soul to something greater…before he loses all he should have been fighting to hold.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: *****

I’ve read a few books in the Love Finds You series, and I’ll admit I wasn’t crazy about them. They seemed too thin, shallow. Nothing but silly romances. But Roseanna White’s Love Finds You sure didn’t follow that trend! After finishing Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland, I’m convinced that she is incapable of writing a flat, lifeless novel—even if she tried! Characters have amazing depth and personality. Lessons are learned. The writing is bold and vivid. Scenery springs off the pages. In short, it is everything I expected from Roseanna…and so much more!

After I got into the book a few chapters, I began to wonder how Roseanna could ever make Emerson redeemable. His treatment of Lark was awful! But, to my surprise and delight, Roseanna did just that! By the end of the book, I was right alongside Sena in cheering for this couples reunion. Oh, and I mustn’t forget Lark’s protective, thoughtful, loving brother Wiley! I LOVED the role he played in this book. Wiley is the symbol of what every young girl wants in an older brother.

And there was not only change in Emerson, but in Lark as well. The lessons they learn and the depth that they grow spiritually while in Annapolis was moving. So much took place within this book—both within the characters and without—that I almost find it hard to believe it all took place within the 307 pages. Be prepared to be moved!

Roseanna White’s writing style was amazing. Often using short, pointed sentences, I found myself completely loosing myself effortlessly within this story. Even when midnight came and went and my eyelids grew heavy, Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland was such an easy read, that I nearly flew through the pages.

*contented sigh* What else is there to say…except this book has a bit of everything within its pages. Historical detail, unique characters, romance, and even a desperate run through the market place that ends up in the freezing bay! And laced delicately throughout is a line of humor that endeared the book to me even more. I just loved the witty way Roseanna wrote! To be sure, Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland is one book you do not want to miss out on reading.

I reviewed this book for the author. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

The Merchant's Daughter - Melanie Dickerson

2011-12-12T13:14:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

An unthinkable danger.

An unexpected choice.

Annabel, once the daughter of a wealthy merchant, is trapped in indentured servitude to Lord Ranulf, a recluse who is rumored to be both terrifying and beastly. Her circumstances are made even worse by the proximity of Lord Ranulf's bailiff---a revolting man who has made unwelcome advances on Annabel in the past.

Believing that life in a nunnery is the best way to escape the escalation of the bailiff's vile behavior and to preserve the faith that sustains her, Annabel is surprised to discover a sense of security and joy in her encounters with Lord Ranulf. As Annabel struggles to confront her feelings, she is involved in a situation that could place Ranulf in grave danger. Ranulf's future, and possibly his heart, may rest in her hands, and Annabel must decide whether to follow the plans she has cherished or the calling God has placed on her heart.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ****

This book kept me burning the midnight oil! After enjoying Melanie Dickerson’s The Healer’s Apprentice, I have been eagerly looking forward to this next fairytale retelling, The Merchant's Daughter. And I was not disappointed! Taking The Beauty and the Beast fairytale(which is my favorite!), Dickerson spins a delightful story set in medieval England. Get ready for an enchanting adventure (though without any magic or spells! ;-)

When Annabel’s family is condemned to send one of them to work for Lord Ranulf le Wyse For three years to pay a debt, Annabel jumps at the chance to escape a forced marriage to an undesirable suitor. She was a very intricate character—displaying both a wary, shy, scared side, but also at times responding to a situation with a strong, sure, determined attitude. Very easy to like her! And, funny enough, grumpy Ranulf also grew on me pretty quickly. Sure he was gruff and short-tempered, but I could see right off, much like Annabel did, that there was something much more behind it all.

The Merchant's Daughter not only has a sweet romance within its pages, but also is a story of one woman finding herself. Lost in a world where she is unappreciated and only wants to study God’s word to know Him more, the reader is enraptured the first time she reads from a bible. Often, we take our bibles for granted, but reading from Annabel’s point of view the first time she sees a bible…its so touching, special, and renewing.

Within the story someone attempts to rape a girl, but even that is vaguely described and stops before anything happens. Besides that, this book was clean and an enjoyable read from cover to cover. I highly recommend for all readers, old and young alike. Melanie Dickerson talent shown bright in The Merchant's Daughter and I can’t wait to see which fairytale she takes on next!

I reviewed this book for Team Novel Teen Blog Tour. Special thanks to the author for sending me a review copy. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

Frantic - Mike Dellosso

2011-12-12T13:03:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

Gas station attendant Marny Toogood thinks it’s just another ordinary day on the job until an urgent message from a young girl in the backseat of a car draws him into a daring rescue attempt. Now he is on the run with Esther and William from their insane “uncle” who thinks it is his mission from God to protect William, a boy with incredible faith that gives him supernatural powers.

They flee to Esther and William's estranged father, Harold Rose, only to find him also out for murder. Later their nightmare gets worse when Harold kidnaps Esther and takes her to an underground lair where he is part of a grisly occult group who is stealing the blood of their victims and infusing themselves with it.

MY REVIEW:

Star Review: *****

The first chapter of Frantic opens with a bang(I mean, it isn’t every day that you set off to rescue a young woman from a crazy, violent man!). From there, Mike Dellosso does not let up the suspense, tension, or stakes. I’d been introduced to Mike and his work in his previous release, Darkness Follows. That book captured my attention and I wasso excited to be able to read his next book, Frantic! What a wild adventure! Throughout the whole book, the tension continues to build up to a very climatic, and satisfying, ending.

Marny is an easy character to cheer for, as he suddenly finds himself rescuing Esther and her eleven-year-old brother William from their crazy uncle. Marny was just a normal, everyday guy who—when he rescues the girl who gave him the quickly-scrawled message HE'S GOING TO KILL ME—suddenly finds himself in the middle of something far bigger then he’d ever imagined. And stakes that are even higher. As much as Marny wants to, he doesn’t back down to the challenge.

Mike’s writing really brings the characters and surroundings to life. He reminds me of Ted Dekker in the way he tackles and includes the supernatural things into his writing. If you at all enjoy any of Dekker’s work, then Dellosso’s books are a must for your reading pile!

From start to finish, I found it very difficult to put down Frantic. Marny, Esther, and William seemed to get out of one near-death experience, only to fall into another. First they are running from a deranged kidnapper, and then from a serial killer. Danger stalks their every step! Definitely a book that will keep you up all night! :-)

I reviewed this book as an influencer in Mike Dellosso’s Darlington Society. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

Daughter of Helaman - Misty Moncur

2011-12-12T12:56:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

Fighting in Helaman's army is Keturah's deepest desire. Certainly if God can protect a boy, he can protect a girl too. But making it into the ranks turns out to be the easy part, and when Lamanite raiders come to her village, Keturah must put her skills to the test. With danger at every turn, this book will keep you caught up in the fray to the very last page.

Misty Moncur skillfully transports readers to Nephite times, where Lamanites roam the forest and fight for your family and freedom is the dream of every boy--and one girl. You'll cheer as the sassy Keturah proves herself, both on and off the battlefield, as a girl with a warriors heart.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ****

Misty Moncur’s debut novel, Daughter of Helaman turned out to be a very enjoyable, engaging read! I liked the time period that the book was set in—a kind of fantasy biblical time period. Really neat! I loved how she incorporated the lifestyle of the characters into the story. I felt like I was literally sucked back between a forgotten chapter of the bible. :-)

The characters were all very likable. Keturah made for a very strong heroine and her confusion/uncertainty with her relationships with Zeke and Gideon added to the story. (Though, just to say, I am totally for Gideon!! ;-) Overall, I didn’t really feel like I really got to know the other characters, besides Keturah. But Daughter of Helaman is a rather short read (198 pages) and things were always happening between the pages. Still, I would’ve liked to gotten to know her family a bit better and maybe even got inside Zeke or Gideons head.

While overall I enjoyed the book, there was one thing that slightly bothered me throughout the book. It had a bit of a ‘modern’ feel to it in places. Some things the characters say, and some of Keturah's view points and arguments as to why she (a girl) should be allowed in the militia of boys, are words and thoughts people use today. But that might just be picky ol’ me, and other readers might not even notice or be bothered by it.

From start to finish, Daughter of Helaman was a very enjoyable read. There never was a 'war' or 'battle', as I thought there would be. Mainly, this debut book sets the stage for the other books that will follow in the series. But while there was no intense battle scenes, the plot still keeps you reading.

I reviewed this book for the author. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

F.A.I.R.I.E.S: Baptism By Fire - M.C. Pearson

2011-12-05T09:51:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

Here lies a most precious treasure,

Awaiting one Chosen to deliver.

Seek out the red cousins in the East,

For on this your greed mustn't feast.

The wealth of a species now in your hands,

Do with it as the light demands.

Give them your gift to unite,

For it is the darkness we all must fight.

Unwittingly chosen to join an army of fairies, who fight for the Light of the One, a teenaged girl learns about spiritual warfare as she attends a military academy with fantastical beings.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ***

F.A.I.R.I.E.S: Baptism by Fire is a very sweet, well suited for young readers of many different ages. If you enjoy fantasy and a tale with countless fantastical beings involved, this book will appeal to you in many ways. I think that is why I wasn’t as taken with the novel—while I do enjoy some fantasy, this kind of fantasy isn’t one of them. So, while I give the book 3 stars, it’s through no fault of the author, just my own personal likes/dislikes.

The lively, imaginative, and fun cast of characters within F.A.I.R.I.E.S: Baptism by Fire will no doubt engage and thrill many readers. I personally had a hard time trying to remember all the different kinds of beings, but that’s probably due to the fact that I don’t normally read books with oceanides, fairies, dwarves, dragons, and whatnot. I did love the friendship between Millie and her E.L. clan—Lizzy, Spike, Zandra, GroBe.

M.C. Pearson has an amazing imagination, creating a world where fairies, dwarves, and dryads exist, unseen to humans. I loved how the fantastical used bible verses repeatedly, and believed in the One and the light He gives. Lovely illustration for young readers! All the different acronyms—F.A.I.R.I.E.S., I.M.P.S., and E.L., to name a few—got a bit confusing for me, I will admit. But it was kinda neat, at the same time.

F.A.I.R.I.E.S: Baptism by Fire took a little while to really ‘get going’, but was filled with many interesting incidents and adventures with Millie and her friends in the meantime. The drawings that Pearson included frequently within the book—which she herself drew!—was really neat, helping to engage the readers with the visuals.

While I did not find it an amazing read, I would recommend viewing other reviews—preferably from those who enjoy the fantasy genre—before coming to a conclusion about this book.

I reviewed this book for FIRST Wild Card Blog Tours. Special thanks to M. C. Pearson of FIRST Wild Card Press for sending me a review copy. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

The Triumph of Grace - Kay Strom

2011-12-05T09:37:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

This riveting conclusion of Grace Winslow’s fight for freedom carries her from England to America’s Deep South. After learning that her husband, Cabeto, is on a South Carolina plantation, Grace dons a sailor’s disguise and boards the only ship headed for America—a detestable slave ship. When her secret is discovered, Grace is locked up in the hold.

In South Carolina, Grace is bought immediately, but soon sold to a man who is not a slave keeper. Moved by her story of perseverance and faith, John Hull makes Grace’s mission his own. Grace now has a dear brother in Christ to help her, but a restored sense of hope does not mean the path to finding Cabeto will be clear—or free of trouble . . .

MY REVIEW:

Star Review: ***

Readers who have read the previous books in the Grace in Africa series will be excited to get their hands on the final book, The Triumph of Grace. While I was excited to finally see that Grace and Cabeto find each other once again, I had a hard time reading it. Maybe it’s just not my favorite writing style to read, but this book just didn’t work for me as much as I had hoped.

Grace was a very strong character and one that readers quickly begin cheering for. As she strove, through every struggle and trial that came her way, to be reunited with her husband, she really came to life. And I really enjoyed Cabeto’s scenes—getting to see how he survived the hard years separated from his wife as a lame slave in America. I did have one problem with all the different characters and side-stories going on—they were hard to keep track of at times!

The Triumph of Grace is a very sobering, and enlightening, view into slavery from a slave’s point of view. And for those readers who have begun this series, they will enjoy finding out how on earth Grace ever manages to rescue her dear Cabeto. And even after they are reunited, their adventure is far from over. Their journey toward freedom kept me very engaged and reading to the last page.

I reviewed this book for the author. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

To Die for - Sandra Byrd

2011-11-25T11:00:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

What would you sacrifice for your best friend?

Would you die for her?

To Die For is the story of Meg Wyatt, pledged forever as the best friend to Anne Boleyn since their childhoods on neighboring manors in Kent. When Anne’s star begins to ascend, of course she takes her best friend Meg along for the ride. Life in the court of Henry VIII is thrilling at first, but as Anne’s favor rises and falls, so does Meg’s. And though she’s pledged her loyalty to Anne no matter what the test, Meg just might lose her greatest love—and her own life—because of it.

Meg's childhood flirtation with a boy on a neighboring estate turns to true love early on. When he is called to follow the Lord and be a priest she turns her back on both the man and his God. Slowly, though, both woo her back through the heady times of the English reformation. In the midst of it, Meg finds her place in history, her own calling to the Lord that she must follow, too, with consequences of her own. Each character in the book is tested to figure out what love really means, and what, in this life, is worth dying for.

Though much of Meg’s story is fictionalized, it is drawn from known facts. The Wyatt family and the Boleyn family were neighbors and friends, and perhaps even distant cousins. Meg’s brother, Thomas Wyatt, wooed Anne Boleyn and ultimately came very close to the axe blade for it. Two Wyatt sisters attended Anne at her death, and at her death, she gave one of them her jeweled prayer book—Meg.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: *****

Beautiful. Heartbreaking.

Those are two words that came to mind when I closed the book after reading the last chapter. Wow, what a beautifully tragic story To Die For is! I'd read, briefly, about the Boleyn sisters and, like many others, thought they were two scheming women who seduced the king to get the crown. But Sandra Byrd shows us that oftentimes, there is a lot more going on than meets the eye. ;-)

Through the eyes of Meg, Ann Boleyn dearest friend, we see that while Anne might not have made all the right choices in life, she was driven by true love for King Henry (who, in my opinion, did NOT deserve it!) and a desire to see reformation in England.

I was in tears during the last few chapters, that’s how moving this story was. Anne and Meg's strong friendship was beautiful to watch throughout the course of the book, and tragic to witness just how true they were to each other. Even to the very end.

Because of some of the historical events that take place within the book (people sleeping together, Henry's mistress’, etc), the book may not be appropriate for younger readers. But that is really up to the individual and, really, Sandra kept it as clean and factual as possible. In scenes that could have been sensual and heated, she kept them clean and straightforward. I really appreciated that.

This is the first book I've read by Sandra, but I promise it won't be my last! And the Tudor era was so interesting! Sandra wrote with so much life in To Die For, that I was easily sucked into Meg’s world. I will definitely be reading the other books in Sandra Byrd's Ladies in Waiting Tudor series.

I reviewed this book for the author. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

Remembering You - Tricia Goyer

2011-11-23T13:57:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

Television producer Ava Ellington cannot refuse her grandfather's last wish--that she accompany him to Europe on a tour of World War II battle sites. Ava has little interest in historical battles, but this may be her last chance to break down the barriers that have grown up between them, and she sets off, camera in hand, ready to record and report on their journey. She and Grandpa Jack are greeted in Paris by Paul, her grandpa's best friend, and his grandson Dennis. The Dennis who just happens to be Ava's first love.

History comes alive as the group travels across Europe--from the romantic sights of Paris to the bleak battlefields of Belgium to the Austrian labor camp these men liberated so many years before--and Ava sees a side of her grandfather she's never known before. As he shares his memories of those bitter days on the battlefield, she begins to understand how his experiences in the war made him the man he is today.

Throughout the journey, Ava and Dennis are drawn together in ways neither of them expected. Can their memories of the past lead to a bright new future?

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ****

Tricia Goyer knows how to write fiction on World War II. Remembering You takes a different approach to the war, in that it’s not a historical. Set in modern times, Ava Ellington journeys with her ‘Grandpa Jake’ back through France, Germany, and Austria as he relives his experiences during the war. A trip that first began as a way to help reestablish both her job and her relationship with her grandfather, this journey down memory lane soon becomes so much more for Ava.

Ava was easy to get to know. While I didn’t always agree with her “business first” approach to things, I enjoyed watching her fight it. Slowly, as the trip progressed, she began to see that spending time with her grandfather—really getting to know him and the man he was during the war—was far more important than getting ‘good footage’. Dennis was a bit harder to understand, his angry behavior often seemed kinda out of place and unexplained. But his care for those around him, and his undying love for Ava, was sweet.

I completely enjoyed this journey down memory lane. Each interview that Grandpa Jack or Grand-Paul did for Ava seemed to real and filled with vivid detail and emotion. Remembering You is a story that needs to be savored. I think veterans from the war would appreciate the time and love that Tricia Goyer has put into this book! Historical fans who enjoy books centered around WWII will enjoy this very unique approach to reliving the war—In a way that we all can relate to today.

I reviewed this book for Litfuse. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

Died in the Wool - Elizabeth Ludwig & Janelle Mowery

2011-11-17T07:27:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

"Everyone knows about the,

shall we say, animosity between you two."

Hoping to procure much-needed funds to by computers for her beloved library, Monah Trenary is battle for monies donated to the city of Pine Mills. When a rival for the revenue ends up dead, Monah is one of the prime suspects. Could she have killed for computers?

Pine Mills police detective Mike Brockman is dismayed when he finds evidence that monkshood and Monah appear to be a lethal combination. As bodies begin piling up, Monah and proven sleuth Casey Alexander step up their own investigation. Will they clear the librarians name before she's booked for murder?

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ****

Who doesn’t enjoy a book you can cozy up with in bed and try to solve the mystery alongside the characters? I know I sure do, though I don’t get to read many of them. So I was eager to give Died in the Wool a try. A librarian whose competitors for funds from the city are turning up dead—what’s not to like?

In Died in the Wool, Monah Trenary suddenly finds her quiet life as the town librarian thrown into upheaval when she discovered a dead body in the bathroom. Fingers naturally point her way. Unwilling to let anyone use her as a scapegoat, Monah—along with her faithful sidekick and fellow amateur sleuth, Casey—begin investigating.

And just so happens that Monah’s boyfriend, Mike, is a detective. With these three on the case…bad guys better get out of the way! It was lots of fun to follow both Monah and Mike as they investigate into the murder in their own way. Their romance was sweet, and I felt for Monah when she became a suspect and had to be questioned by Mike. How awful to think the guy your dating thinks you’re capable of murder!

Elizabeth Ludwig and Janelle Mowery have crafted together another intriguing, twisting mystery in the second installment to the Massachusetts Mayhem Mysteries series. Fans of this series will be thrilled to see previous characters make an appearance, as well as discover new ones. With this lovely cast of characters and a complex plot, Died in the Wool is sure to keep you guessing the entire time.

I reviewed this book for the authors. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

A Lasting Impression - Tamera Alexander

2011-11-14T08:36:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

A fake.

A forger.

More than anything, Claire Laurent longs for the chance to live an authentic life, to become the woman she wants to be. And she'll be given that choice. But will it come at too costly a price?

Claire Laurent's greatest aspiration is to paint something that will bring her acclaim. Yet her father insists she work as a copyist. A forger. When she's forced to flee from New Orleans to Nashville only a year after the War Between the States has ended, her path collides with attorney Sutton Monroe. She considers him a godsend for not turning her in to the authorities. But after he later refuses to come to her aid, Claire fears she's sorely misjudged the man. Finding herself among the elite of Nashville's society, Claire believes her dream to create a lasting impression in the world of art is within reach--but only if her fraudulent past remains hidden.

The Federal Army has destroyed Sutton's home and confiscated his land, and threatens to destroy his family's honor. His determination to reclaim what belongs to him and to right a grievous wrong reveals a truth that may cost him more than he ever imagined--as well as the woman he loves.

Set at Nashville's historic Belmont Mansion, a stunning antebellum manor built by Mrs. Adelicia Acklen, A Lasting Impression is a sweeping love story about a nation mending after war, the redemption of those wounded, and the courage of a man and woman to see themselves--and each other--for who they really are.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: *****

Wow. Words seem so inadequate to express just how rich this book is—both in historical details and the romantic tension. I can't remember exactly, but it's been a while since a book touched me so emotionally; I was fighting tears at times. But therein is the beauty of Tamera Alexander's new release, A Lasting Impression—her writing touches to the heart.

And the writing! Tamera's style was beautiful and brought to life the Belmont mansion as seen through Claire's eyes. The depth and realistic qualities she gives each and every character in this book was amazing. Claire was such an amazing person and I grew so close to her over the course of the novel. I was sad when I read the last page and had to say good bye to her and dear, fun-loving Sutton. She'd had such a sad life before coming to Belmont, and had many things to overcome. But I enjoyed watching her meet, and overcome, every challenge.

The Christian elements in the book were wonderful. Tamera wove it seamlessly into the plot and did it so gradually; it felt more realistic and believable than many other books I've read. And not in a preachy way, either. Claire's gradual, but very sincere, search for salvation and redemption was so touching—and when the Lord finally opened her eyes...I felt like crying for joy. How beautiful!

There have been some very good historical fictions published this year, but few have really stood out from the others and made it to my ‘favorites’ shelf for 2011. But A Lasting Impression has done just that—sitting proudly beside my copies of The Doctor's Lady and The Measure of Katie Calloway. Cracking open the cover to this book is like stepping back in time to the wonderful world of high-society and fine art that decorated the halls of Belmont mansion.

I reviewed this book for Bethany House via Litfuse. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

Shadow in Serenity - Terri Blackstock

2011-11-09T10:59:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

Carny Sullivan grew up in the zany world of a traveling carnival. Quaint and peaceful Serenity, Texas, has given her a home, a life, and a child.

Logan Brisco is the smoothest, slickest, handsomest man Serenity, Texas has ever seen. But Carny Sullivan knows a con artist when she sees one---and she's seen plenty, starting with her father. As far as Carny Sullivan can tell, she's the only one in town who has his number. Because from his Italian shoes to his movie-actor smile, Logan has the rest of the town snowed.

Carny is determined to reveal Brisco's selfish intentions before his promise to the townspeople for a cut in a giant amusement park sucks Serenity dry. Yet, as much as she hates his winning ways, there is a man behind that suave smile, a man who may win her heart against her will.

Shadow in Serenity is a modern-day Music Man, penned by a Christy Award-winning, New York Times bestselling author.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ****

This is my first step into Terri Blackstock’s work and, while it wasn’t as edge-of-your-seat suspenseful that I was expecting, it was an engaging story that kept me reading. I thought it was neat that Terri rewrote Shadow in Serenity (original published for the general market) with a Christian message woven in. And she did it so seamlessly—even when I read, at the end, how she’d added the Christian elements, I almost found it hard to imagine the book without them.

Terri goes deep with her two main characters, Carny and Logan. More especially with Logan, in my opinion. He has such a complex past and watching him slowly change throughout the course of the book was wonderful. Carny also was a fun character, but she was a bit hard to get to know for the first half of the book. Both characters come together beautifully, though, by the end of the story in a very sweet romance.

I didn’t think I would like the whole “Can’t con a con artist” theme, but surprised myself by getting very “into” the story. Probably due to Terri’s writing style. It captured my attention and I found the book a very easy read. I will admit that, towards the end when Carny leaves Serenity to revisit her childhood, I had trouble staying “in” the story. It seemed like everything was moving along so well…and then Carny skips town for a week to reminisce her childhood. Kinda threw me out of the book and, I confess, I skipped through that part.

From what I hear from my friends who are fans of Terri’s books, this isn’t her best work. So the fact that, while it wasn’t her best, it still was able to capture my attention speaks volumes about the author. I am certainly looking forward to trying more books by Terri in the future!

I reviewed this book for Zondervan via Shelby at Shelton Interactive. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

Dry as Rain - Gina Holmes

2011-11-08T07:09:00.000-08:00

THE BOOK:

Behind every broken vow

lies a broken heart.

When Eric and Kyra Yoshida first met, they thought their love would last forever. But like many marriages, theirs has gradually crumbled, one thoughtless comment and misunderstanding at a time, until the ultimate betrayal pushes them beyond reconciliation. Though Eric longs to reunite with Kyra, the only woman he has truly loved, he has no idea how to repair the damage that’s been done.

Then a car accident erases part of Kyra’s memory—including her separation from Eric—and a glimmer of hope rises from the wreckage. Is this a precious opportunity for the fresh start Eric has longed for? Does he even deserve the chance to find forgiveness and win back Kyra’s heart . . . or will the truth blow up in his face, shattering their last hope for happiness? A richly engaging story of betrayal and redemption, Dry as Rain illuminates with striking emotional intensity the surprising truth of what it means to forgive.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ***

Hearing a lot of praises for Gina Holmes’ debut novel, Crossing Oceans, I was really excited to get the opportunity to review her next release, Dry as Rain. While the writing and depth of emotions in this book was amazing, something about the story as a whole rubbed me wrong. Even now that I finished it, I cannot name exactly what it is I did not like about it.

Eric and Kyra marriage is down the tubes and their son, Benji, is suddenly faced with a midlife crisis. The book is set in first person, from Eric’s point of view, thus giving me a very unique view of the story. While I understood Eric was far from perfect and enjoyed watching him grow throughout the story, I had a hard time liking him. The way he handled things and what he did had me on the verge of being depressed!

Because part of their broken marriage is because of an affair Eric had with a (much younger) coworker, I wouldn’t recommend Dry as Rain for teens. But it isn’t really directed toward younger readers anyway.

So, while I didn’t find Dry as Rain as captivating a read as I had hoped, I would suggest reading more reviews before coming to a conclusion. This book just didn’t work for me—but it might for you.

Gina Holmes’ writing was wonderful and writing in such a way, it was almost an effortless read! Seriously, I found myself flying easily through the pages; just taking the story in. I can now understand how she became a bestselling author with her debut novel!

I reviewed this book for Tyndale House Publishing. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

Deep Trouble - Mary Connealy

2011-11-03T07:12:00.000-07:00

THE BOOK:

Aimless and Wandering...

Gabe Lasley abandoned his ranch in Wyoming because of his strong feelings for a married woman, wanting only to be left alone. Then he finds a treasure hunter stranded on a mountaintop cave and offers to help her.

Fearless and Fixated...

A determined Shannon Dysart is on a quest to prove her father's research isn't the word of a madman and that he really did find treasure in the Wild West. Then she finds herself stranded, with an aimless wanderer her only way out.

Now the unlikely pair is out to find the city of gold...together...with trouble hot on their trail. When a band of villains threaten to steal Shannon's map, will she be able to see past the gold that colors her ever decision, and will Gabe accept his surprising need to protect a woman who doesn't seem to have a lick of common sense? Or will they discover that a true treasure rooted in love and faith has been within their reach all along.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: *****

This is only the second book I’ve read by Mary Conneally, and I admit I wasn’t crazy about the first one I read. But, I am happy to say I really enjoyed Deep Trouble. With the feel of National Treasure (on the hunt for a lost city of gold that everyone else laughs at), Mary spins her own tale in the wilds of the west with a colorful cast of characters—city girl Shannon, rugged cowboy Gabe, upstart preacher Ford, gold-hungry Lurene, sinister Cutter...and so many more!

With everything ingenuously woven around the search for a lost city of gold, this story takes off easily from the beginning and hardly slows till the last page. Mary Connealy’s talent for writing drew me in and immersed me into these characters lives.

While I thought Shannon was a bit too stubborn in her search for the city, I loved watching her change and grow, right alongside Gabe. The lesson that there are things more important than gold and riches was well displayed throughout the plot.

Shannon and Gabe’s near-marriage was quiet humorous! And throughout the book, Mary adds little touches that made me chuckle and kept me reading. There was quite a bit of sensual touching and kissing going on between these two, especially for so short an acquaintance. But that’s just me and, really, my only slight-problem in this fun, rollickin’ adventure. This western, treasure-hunting romance is sure to please Mary Connealy fans everywhere.

I reviewed this book for the publishers, Barbour Books. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

Lethal Remedy - Richard Mabry

2011-11-01T12:22:00.000-07:00

THE BOOK:

What happens when the race to stop a lethal bacteria
becomes a race to stop a killer?

Dr. Sara Miles’ teenage patient is on the brink of death from an overwhelming, highly resistant infection with Staph luciferus, known to doctors as “the killer.” Only an experimental antibiotic, developed and administered by Sara’s ex-husband can save the girl's life.

But potentially lethal effects from the drug send Sara and her colleague, Dr. Rip Pearson, on a hunt for hidden critical data that will let them reverse the effects before it’s too late. What is the missing puzzle piece? And who is hiding it?

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ****

While I know next to nothing when it comes to the medical industry, every so often I do enjoy picking up a medical suspense or mystery. Doctor Richard Mabry brings to readers the fourth and final book in the Prescription for Trouble series. While I have only read one other in the series (book 3, Diagnosis Death), I was looking forward to more by this author who is, obviously, very knowledgeable in this area.

There were a lot of characters in this book. Moreso then in his previous book. The first few chapters I was a bit confused as I tried to remember all the different characters and, as the story progressed, what their motives were. Sarah and Rip were two characters I really got to like but, as a result of all the added characters, I didn’t get to know them as well as I had liked.

The whole suspenseful plot surrounding the wonder-drug, Jandramycin, was really good and kept me reading. I think the ‘mysterious person’ behind the plot to take down Jandra was almost kept too mysterious. At the end, when all was revealed, I was surprised—but not in the way I usually am surprised when the bad guy is discovered. It was just…different, I guess.

In all, Lethal Remedy was a nice, mildly suspenseful read. The scenes were all relatively short, and I found myself easily flying through the pages, making this an easy read. The ending felt a bit rushed and quickly wrapped up. I would’ve liked to have read more on where Sara’s relationship with Rip and Mark went. But, all in all, Lethal Remedy is a great conclusion to the Prescription for Trouble series. Richard knows his stuff when it comes to medicine!

I reviewed this book for FIRST Wild Card Tour. Special thanks to Julie Dowd (Abingdon Press) for sending me a review copy. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

Pirate of My Heart - Jamie Carie

2011-10-31T07:29:00.000-07:00

THE BOOK:

She gave up everything for a chance at true love . . .

When her doting father dies, Lady Kendra Townsend is given a choice: marry the horrid man of her uncle’s choosing or leave England to risk a new life in America with unknown relatives.

Armed with the faith that God has a plan for her, Kendra boards a cargo ship and soon finds herself swept away by the rugged American sea captain Dorian Colburn. But this adventurous man has been wounded by love before and now guards his independent life.

He wasn’t prepared to give up anything for anyone . . .

No swashbuckling man needs an English heiress with violet-hued eyes to make him feel again or challenge his faith with probing questions—or so he thinks.

It is not until Dorian must save Kendra from the dark forces surrounding her that he decides she may be worth the risk.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ***

With only a small introduction to Jamie Carie’s work in the past (I reviewed her book, The Snowflake), I was looking forward to reading more by here. I admit I was a bit disappointed in Pirate of My Heart—I felt it wasn’t one of Jamie’s best works. From reading The Snowflake, I know that this author has talent not only in her writing style, but in making the scene, setting, and plot believable and come alive. Sadly, I found those areas lacking somewhat in this newest release, Pirate of My Heart.

While both Kendra and Dorian were endearing characters that I did grow to care for by the end of the book, they weren’t as in-depth as I generally like to see in the books I read. I did enjoy reading their story and how they slowly began to acknowledge that they were falling in love. Jamie did do a great job at making the reader dislike Angelene—I could not stand that girl! She needed a good slap on the face to wake her up to reality, and I wouldn’t have mind giving it to her if I could.

There are many twists to the plot in Pirate of My Heart that really surprised me. Normally, a historical romance like this ends at the wedding, and the couple lives ‘happily ever after’…but such is not the case for Kendra and Dorian! I really liked how it showed their rocky start together and yet how they overcame their differences. At the beginning of the book I felt the story was a bit rushed, but once Kendra was on her way to America, it slowed down considerably.

As I mentioned, the writing left a bit to be desired. I’d experienced Jamie Carie bring Alaska to life through The Snowflake, so was surprised and a tad disappointed in this book. But it wasn’t all a letdown, as Jamie’s historical knowledge shone through in her vivid description of the time period, clothing, and life style.

I’m sure fans of Jamie Carie’s work will be thrilled to read this new addition to her books. Jamie does a wonderful job at keeping her plots unique; bring you a fresh and exciting adventure every time she comes out with a new book. While I admit Pirate of My Heart wasn’t my favorite, I will still be keeping an eye on Jamie Carie’s books in the future.

I reviewed this book for B&H Publishing. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

~~

Love on the Line - Deeanne Gist

2011-10-29T11:05:00.000-07:00

THE BOOK:

It's a battle of wills...

and love is on the line!

Rural switchboard operator Georgie Gail is proud of her independence in a man's world ... which makes it twice as vexing when the telephone company sends a man to look over her shoulder.

Dashing Luke Palmer is more than he appears though. He's a Texas Ranger working undercover to infiltrate a notorious gang of train robbers. Repairing telephones and tangling with this tempestuous woman is the last thing he wants to do. But when his stakeout puts Georgie in peril, he realizes more than his job is on the line.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ****

I’ve only read one other book by Deeanne Gist before, and since so many of my blogger friends love her and her work, I decided to give her another try. And I am glad I did. While there still was a fair amount of sensual tension and interaction between the main characters, Love on the Line was a fun and some-what suspenseful read.

The heroine, Georgie Gail, was one interesting little lady. I couldn’t get over how obsessed she was with birds. I mean, I totally get her fight to stop using bird parts for decorating hats (ew!), but I think Georgie went over the top. A lot. After a while, I was heartily sick of reading about her silly defense of birds. Luke Palmer made for a great hero, though. I never thought a person could look that handsome/attractive in overalls, but I’m betting if I saw Luke Palmer in them, I’d change my mind! (wink) The whole angle with being an undercover Texas Ranger was really cool. He sounded like one awesome dude!

Deeanne Gist has a gift when it comes to writing! Through her powerful words, the town of Brenham, Texas sprung to life from the pages of this book. I didn’t noticed her beautiful and expressive writing in the first book I read, but it shined in Love on the Line.

As I mentioned, the sensual elements of the book were still pretty blatant, especially when it was so early on in there acquaintance. Maybe I felt this way because I like to see a bond of friendship form before they display physical affection. But if you like scenes that will spike your temperature, then I know you won’t mind the heated scenes between Georgie and Luke!

The capture of the Comer gang at the end was a bit disappointing for me, as I had expected more of a high-strung, suspenseful conclusion. But, as a whole, it didn’t ruin the book for me. The book was a pretty relaxed read, for me, but Deeanne’s talent for writing had me flying through the pages effortlessly. Edgy romance lovers everywhere are sure to love this new sizzler that will leave your heart pumping!

I reviewed this book for Bethany House n via Litfuse. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

The Wonder of Your Love - Beth Wiseman

2011-10-29T10:53:00.000-07:00

THE BOOK:

Katie Ann lost the love of her life.

Then God offers her a new beginning in Colorado.

Katie Ann Stolzfus lives in the small Amish community of Canaan, Colorado. At forty she is widowed and raising her first child. But baby Jonas will never know his father, and Katie Ann wonders if her Heavenly Father hasn't forgotten about her as well. Is it really God's plan for her to be a single parent?

Eli Detweiler has come to Canaan for a wedding and a long vacation. Having raised six children following the death of his young wife, Eli is finally an empty-nester. He's enjoying the slower pace of having no one to care for but himself.

When Katie Ann and Eli meet, there is an instant connection. Yet as strong as the attraction is, they both acknowledge that a romance would never work. He is done parenting, while she has just begun.

But as their friendship slowly blossoms into feelings that are as frightening as they are intoxicating, Katie Ann and Eli question if the plans they made for themselves are in line with God's plans.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ****

I’m not a very big Amish fiction fan. Not really sure why, but the genre just never appealed to me. Until Beth Wiseman came along with the first book in her new series, Seek Me With All Your Heart, which I read and loved. This next book in the series, The Wonder of Your Love, is a delightful addition to the series that I enjoyed reading.

It was so much fun returning to these characters. I was kinda disappointed not to read more about David and Emily (the main characters in the previous book). This time, the story centered around Katie Ann, a new mother and widow, and Eli, a relative of Emily’s family. Both these characters were fun to get to know and, of course, Martha was a hoot! She had a more prominent part in this story, and was her old, stubborn self. The way her story ends, with the entrance of Danelle, makes me wonder what will take place with these two in the next book.

The romance between Katie Ann and Eli was different than most books, in that a great portion of it took place long distance—she in Canaan and he back in his hometown. I enjoyed the love story between them, but had a little problem with all the kissing. I could understand the first “accidental” kiss, but if Eli was determined to keep it just friends…I kept wondering why he was kissing Katie Ann so often and passionately. But besides that one point, their romance was very sweet and well developed.

While Seek Me With All Your Heart still remains my favorite Amish book, The Wonder of Your Love was a delightful continuation to this series and one I really enjoyed reading. Fans of Beth Wiseman will love this beautiful and heart-touching Amish love story.

I reviewed this book for Thomas Nelson via Litfuse. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

A Quarter for a Kiss - Mindy Clark

2011-10-26T13:13:00.000-07:00

THE BOOK:

“What is it?” I asked, my heart surging.

“It’s Eli,” she sobbed. “He’s in the hospital.”

“In the hospital?”

“Callie, he’s been shot.”

Just like that, buisness investigator Callie Webber finds herself on her way to the beautiful Virgin Islands, where a situation of paramount importance awaits her. Her friend and mentor, Eli Gold, is in serious trouble.

An unusual -- and very dangerous -- assignment sends Callie and Tom on an adventure together. She will need all of her investigative know-how plus Tom's amazing resources to solve the mystery surrounding the attack on Eli's life. And unknown to her, Callie also faces danger of another kind. Though her faith in God is sure, will her faith in Tom survive their visit to the island of St. John?

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ****

While I read and enjoyed the previous book in this series, A Dime a Dozen, I wasn’t crazy about it. Consequently, I began this book, A Quarter for a Kiss with some trepidation. In the end, all my worry was for naught! The story kicks off with a great start and, really, doesn't slow down till the end. Besides being a bit wordy in areas, from start to finish I completely enjoyed this book.

Maybe one of the reasons I enjoyed it so much more was because Tom was with Callie during this investigation. I loved watching these two interact and deal with the case. Through it all, Tom and Callie's relationship felt so...natural. Believable. They spent time together, enjoyed each other’s company, often were tempted, but each time triumphed over the temptation. One point that Mindy drove home that I just loved was when Callie had to urge Tom to leave her room. They were getting tempted, and the reason she made him leave her room was because she loved him. I saw that, and silently applauded Mindy Clark. I don’t think I’ve seen it put just that way in a book before, but it is all so true.

The plot was, once again, very intricate and complex. I kept trying to figure out “who dunnit”, but once again…had a hard time doing that! In the end, I was able to deduce who one of the bad guys was before Callie and Tom. I felt so proud of myself. (lol!) There wasn’t anything inappropriate in this book outside of a few kisses exchanged between Callie and Tom and an old affair that they uncovered during their investigation. Mindy doesn’t go into detail in either area and keeps the whole story very clean as a whole.

I finished the book with batted breath and was so pleased at how everything came down. But then that last scene totally threw me! Way to go, Mindy Clark, ending with a cliffhanger!! Now I am going to have to get my hands on a copy of the next book as soon as possible. Tom might have a rough past, but Callie hasta forgive him—those two are so perfect for each other! If you’re into mysteries, then I don’t think you can go wrong by looking Mindy Clark up. Her books are sure to keep you entertained and deducing for hours, right along with Callie the sleuth!

I reviewed this book for FIRST Wild Card Tour. Special thanks to Karri for sending me a review copy. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

The Bone House - Stephen Lawhead

2011-10-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

THE BOOK:

One piece of the Skin Map has been found.
Now the race to unravel the future of the future turns deadly.

An avenue of Egyptian sphinxes, an Etruscan tufa tomb, a Bohemian coffee shop, and a Stone Age landscape where universes collide …

Kit Livingstone met his great grandfather Cosimo in a rainy alley in London where he discovered the reality of alternate realities.

Now he's on the run - and on a quest, trying to understand the impossible mission he inherited from Cosimo: to restore a map that charts the hidden dimensions of the multiverse while staying one step ahead of the savage Burley Men.

The key is the Skin Map - but where it leads and what it means, Kit has no idea. The pieces have been scattered throughout this universe and beyond.

Mina, from her outpost in seventeenth-century Prague, is quickly gaining both the experience and the means to succeed in the quest. Yet so are those with evil intent, who from the shadows are manipulating great minds of history for their own malign purposes.

Across time and space, through manifest and hidden worlds, those who know how to use ley lines to travel through astral planes have left their own world behind in this, the second quest: to unlock the mystery of The Bone House.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ****

Those who know me, or those who follow my blog and reviews closely, know that I am not a big fantasy or sci-fi reader. There are a few exceptions, but normally, something about the fantasy genre rubs me wrong. I took a chance with reading Stephen Lawhead’s newest release, The Bone House, and in the end, was glad I did! It probably would have been less confusing at the beginning had I read the first in the series, The Skin Map, but all in all, I enjoyed this book!

Normally, I read fiction/novels that have about two main characters—four tops. But Stephen Lawhead takes the plunge with many more than that! And the amazing thing about it (at least for me) is that he pulls it off so well! With such a wide and colorful cast of characters, I was pleasantly surprised with the way each one uniquely came alive, chapter by chapter, in this story. It took a while to get used to the continual shifting of character POV, but once I got used to the cadence of Stephen’s writing, I loved the uniqueness of it!

Description was awesome. From start to finish, whole scenes sprung from the pages of The Bone House. Scenery, time period, people…Stephen’s words pulled me into the book. Personally, I felt the story took a while to actually get going, but because of Stephen’s awesome writing abilities, I found that even though the plot might be moving slow, the words kept me reading.

Another thing that pleasantly surprised me was the way Stephen Lawhead’s book made me think. I mean really think! Throughout the whole book, the subject of how immortal a person’s soul is was often discussed. It’s amazing how, throughout all the character’s ley traveling, each time period ultimately was on a quest for the same thing—knowledge on what happens after we die. They knew and realized how fragile our bodies are and were concerned about what comes after. That was just an interested fact that I really loved how Stephen brought home to his readers.

So, all in all, I did enjoy reading this book and never found my interest wavering. The first half of the book I was pretty confused, but I contribute this to the fact that I haven’t read The Skin Map. (Because of this, I tried not to bring my confusion into consideration when rating this book.) Stephen Lawhead is a talented author with an eye for description that created a fantasy world for me, right before my very eyes. I wouldn’t call this a suspense book, as only once or twice toward the end did I clutch the book in tension, wondering what would happen next, but it is a great adventure story. And one that is to be continued in a third book next year. I’ll have to keep my eye out for that one—I’m curious how this amazingly complex story is going to play out!

I reviewed this book for Christian Science Fiction & Fantasy Blog Tours. Special thanks to the publishers, Thomas Nelson, for sending me a review copy. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

Lost in Dreams - Roger Bruner

2011-10-26T12:53:00.000-07:00

THE BOOK:

From the moment eighteen-year-old Kim Hartlinger steps off the plane from a mission trip to a remote Mexican village, her journey takes a turn for the worse. As she collides with the biggest challenge of her young life--and faith--Kim struggles with haunting questions and recurring nightmares...all while trying to hide a deep, dark secret. Will Kim find the hope and healing she needs? Or is her broken spirit beyond repair?

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ***

Kim Hartlinger is at it again. She’s home from her Mexico missions trip only a few hours when her life takes a very unexpected, and tragic, turn. Lost in Dreams deals with many great issues that teens will often have to deal with during their younger years—evangelism, grief, friendships, guilt, divorce, jealously, crushes, mission work, and so much more.

Having learned so much from her Mexico trip (which you can read about in the first book of this series, Found in Translation), when Kim finds out that she’s going on another mission trip (in the States this time) with her two best friends and her dad, she’s excited to leave the rather painful memories of her hometown. Sharing her love for the Lord is her passion, and through her ministry to others, she finds her own hurts and struggles are also slowly healing.

My thoughts on this book mirror pretty closely to my reaction of the first book. While it has a really good message for teens, something about the book rubbed me wrong. I’m not sure what it is—possibly the writing style—but I found it difficult to focus on the story. There were more exciting parts in this book, such as getting lost in the mountains and uncovering a blackmailer, to name a few.

Teens who like a book wholly centered on God and missions will find this book right up their alley. I felt it got a bit overtly preachy at times, but if you are a Christian, then you shouldn’t have a problem with it. Lost in Dreams is a sweet continuation of the adventures of one mission-minded girl, Kim Hartlinger.

I reviewed this for the author via Team Novel Teen Blog Tour. Thanks to the author for sending me a review copy. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

A Necessary Deception - Laurie Alice Eakes

2011-10-26T12:47:00.000-07:00

THE BOOK:

When young widow Lydia Gale helps a French prisoner obtain parole, she never dreams she will see him again. But just as the London Season gets under way, the man presents himself in her parlor. While she should be focused on getting her headstrong younger sister prepared for her entrée into Society, Lady Gale finds herself preoccupied with the mysterious Frenchman. Is he a spy or a suitor? Can she trust him? Or is she putting herself and her family in danger?

Discover a world of elegance and intrigue, balls and masquerades as Laurie Alice Eakes whisks you into the drawing rooms of London Society on this exciting quest to let the past stay in the past--and let love guide the future.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: *****

I’ve read several of the books Laurie Eakes has published over the past few years, and all were very good and beautifully written. When I first heard about this new series that begins with A Necessary Deception, I was eager to find out what new adventure Laurie would think up next! To my delight, this book did not disappoint my expectations in the slightest—in fact, I thought it was the best one she’s written yet!

Lady Lydia Gale made a wonderful heroine. I love the mystery in everything: from Lydia’s previous marriage to Christien current lifestyle! Both of Lydia’s sisters (Cassandra and Honore) added a great mix into this cast of delightful characters—and ensured that Lydia was forever trying to undo some damage either Cassandra or Honore had done!

The Regency era isn’t my usual reading genre, but I do enjoy diving into that oh-so intriguing time period. I am convinced I could never live in that day and age—what with all the high society do’s and don’t’s, I would scandalize myself on the first day without even knowing it! But it is really interesting to read. Secrets and scandal seem to abound, and gossipers were in there element among those of high society. Taken into consideration that Laurie wrote a part intrigue, part mystery novel with A Necessary Deception, she couldn’t have picked a more perfect time period!

I admit I was surprised when this book turned out to be just as much a suspense/mystery novel as a Regency romance. What a wonderful combination! From almost the first chapter, Laurie draws her readers in with the puzzling question of who the person is who is blackmailing Lydia. And from that point on, the suspense and romance (oh yeah!) continue to build.

The dangers that Lydia and Christien continually face as they try to find the blackmailer and the traitor in their midst make for several heart-pounding moments. Since everything in their society is oh-so proper, that first kiss between them is long awaited. But when it does come, boy was that a scene!! A Necessary Deception has a wonderful mixture woven into a strong plot—suspense, intrigue, romance, action, mystery…everything this bookworm loves!

I reviewed this book for Revell. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.

~~

A Dime A Dozen - Mindy Starns Clarke

2011-10-19T19:32:00.000-07:00

THE BOOK:

Fast-paced and inspirational, The Million Dollar Mystery series is from bestselling author Mindy Starns Clark.

Attorney Callie Webber investigates nonprofit organizations for the J.O.S.H.U.A. Foundation and awards the best of them grants up to a million dollars. In this series, Callie comes across a mystery she must solve using her skills as a former private investigator. A young widow, Callie finds strength in her faith in God and joy in her relationship with her employer, Tom.

---

In book number three of The Million Dollar Mystery series, Callie suddenly finds herself involved in the life of a young wife and mother whose husband has disappeared…possibly the victim of foul play.

Callie has come to the beautiful Smoky Mountains hoping to award a million-dollar grant to the charity set up in the woman’s late husband’s honor. But in the search for a missing migrant worker, a body is discovered, which puts the grant on hold and her new romance with her mysterious boss in peril. Trusting in God, Callie forges steadily ahead through a mire of clues that lead her deeper and deeper into danger.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ***

Mindy Clarke is a new author to me, but a quick peak on Amazon.com showed me that she is really into the mysteries! I do enjoy a good mystery, myself, on occasion, and found the one Mindy created inside of A Dime a Dozen very intriguing. A bit slow-paced for me, but the plot was very intricate and well done.

Callie is a character you can’t help but get to like. With a close relationship to the Lord that you can feel just by the way she talks, I found her a really likeable character. The story is set around her trip back to her deceased husband’s home town of Greenbriar, where Callie returns on her next assignment from J.O.S.H.U.A (a foundation that donates money to charitable organizations), which is to look into the charity organization there and talk with the founder, who just happen to be her husband’ parents.

Reading how Callie walks through these hard experiences, while handling her investigation for J.O.S.H.U.A and trying to solve a mystery, I loved watching her faith in God shine through. And her budding relationship surrounding the elusive and mysterious Tom added to the story! Tom sounded like such a romantic! ;-) Everything was well plotted and portrayed in this novel, and I while I did try to put my detective skills to work and figure out “who dunnit” before Callie…I ended up being as shocked as she when the culprit was finally revealed. Great job on that.

The way this book is written reminded me a lot of the Sherlock Holmes mysteries. Kinda like Callie is writing in her personal journal about her events of the day (like Doctor Watson does). Not sure if the author meant it that way, but that was what popped into my head as I read this book. Brought a different feel to the first-person point of view that was neat.

As I mentioned before, I felt the whole mystery was a bit slow. Toward the middle my attention started lagging and I found myself skimming a bit, but it wasn’t for long. The last hundred pages picked up as the mystery started to come together and the culprit was discovered. If you’re a mystery genre lover, then I would definitely check out Mindy Clarke’s books!

Highland Sanctuary - Jennifer Hudson Taylor

2011-10-18T07:22:00.000-07:00

THE BOOK:

A Sanctuary of Secrets . . .

Gavin MacKenzie, a chieftain heir who is hired to restore the ancient Castle of Braigh, discovers a hidden village of outcasts who have created their own private sanctuary from the world. Among them is Serena Boyd, a mysterious and comely lass, who captures Gavin's heart in spite of harboring a deadly past that could destroy her future.

The villagers happen to be keeping an intriguing secret as well, and when a fierce enemy launches an attack against them, greed leads to bitter betrayal. Then, as Gavin prepares a defense, the villagers unite in a bold act of faith, showing how God's love is more powerful than any human force on earth.

MY REVIEW:

Star Rating: ****

Having read the first book in this series, Highland Blessings, by the talented Jennifer Taylor, I was eager to discover what new adventure awaited readers inside of Highland Sanctuary. While the opening of the book was a bit slower from the kidnapped-bride scenario of the first book, this next installment to the series did not disappoint!

Serena was a vibrant, easy to love character who I found very easy to sympathize with. I thought the author took a very interesting angle with this main character—in that Serena suffered from seizures. Today, seizures are well known, but back then it wasn’t…since the (very superstitious) people instantly thought that the person was demon-possessed. What a scary situation, being condemned and sometimes killed for a condition you have no control over!

I always love a series that still include, to some extent, the previous main characters from the other books. And so I found in Highland Sanctuary. It was great seeing Arika and Bryce again, as well as her younger brother, Gavin—who was the main character in this second installment. Gavin and his protective nature made it easy to admire him.

The opening of Highland Sanctuary was a bit slower than the Highland Blessings (but maybe that’s because getting kidnapped at your wedding is hard to beat! ;-). However, it did pick up soon enough and I found myself flying through the pages. The climax was intense and well portrayed (nope, I’m not gunna tell you what the climax was. No spoilers here! ;-)

I think my favorite part of the book was the angle of Serena suffering from seizures, and everyone’s response to it. It’s amazing (and sad) how quick people are to jump to conclusions and judge others, even with very little evidence. Both Serena and Gavin were wonderful characters, and getting to know Arika and Gavin’s younger brother, Leith, a bit during the book was great, too. I wonder if he’ll be getting his own book/story someday, too! (hint, hint, dear Jennifer!) All in all, Highland Sanctuary was a delightful Scottish read that historical lovers won’t want to miss.

I reviewed this book for the author, Jennifer Hudson Taylor, as an influencer. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.