Full Disclosure by Dee Henderson

After reading many of Dee Henderson's other books, I was expecting a fast paced suspense romance.  This was not what I got in Full Disclosure.

Paul Falcon is an FBI agent who meets Ann Silver when she dumps a case that is connected to one he has been working on for a decade onto his lap.  Paul is intrigued, Ann appears to be interested and that is the height of the romance in my opinion.  Yes we find out that Ann can do all things...write, fly, paint, maintain friendships with a surprising amount of influential people.  And not only does Ann do all this, but she is also one heck of a cop who is humble as well.  What I don't get is how Ann can be all these things and be unable to love.  I don't buy it.

Now we have Paul Falcon...if we go by the cover, he is so good looking I might even trade in my husband for him.  Not only is he physically attractive, he is a hard working, likeable and respected FBI agent who makes time for his large family.  I don't think the attraction is believable.  Family oriented Paul would not settle for a recluse who doesn't want children.

Full Disclosure was also missing in suspense.  Perhaps there was a bit of it near the end, but since the book lacked in romance, it needed suspense to hold my interest.  It took me a looonnnggg time to read this book.  It was not the page turner I hoped it would be.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.   Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".  

With Every Letter by Sarah Sundin

Mellie Blake just doesn't fit in.  She grew up in foreign places with her father and never learned to make friends.  Tom MacGilliver's father was a killer and he was never able to make more than superficial friendships because of his parentage.  Tom and Mellie begin to exchange letters anonymously and soon find that their friendship helps them grow in their areas of weakness.  Mellie is a source of encouragement for Tom who doesn't know how to lead his men without being abusive.  Tom teaches Mellie how to open up to friendship and gives her a safe place to share her fears.

Eventually they are stationed near each other and Mellie discovers who Tom is.  However, Mellie is plagued with the fear and conviction that she is unattractive and that Tom would be disappointed if they should ever meet.  Will they ever be able to overcome the obstacles that keep them apart?

This book is a must read.  I have read a few horrible books lately and this is definitely the opposite of that!  The setting was great!  Beginning with Mellie's training in the US to the transfer to upper Africa, the setting added to the story.  I also enjoyed learning about Mellie and Tom's respective jobs as it added a richness to their love story.

What do you need as a prospective buyer to purchase this book?  Great characters?  Check.  Great setting?  Check!  Great plot?  Check!!  This is definitely a buy.  I can't wait for the next book.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.  Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

Against The Tide by Elizabeth Camden

I want to read every book that Elizabeth Camden writes!  She is able to create complex characters that draw you in right from the start.

Lydia Pallas grew up on the boats that her immigrant parents owned until the day they never returned for her after school.  Although Lydia never hears from them she is secure in their love and the belief that they would never have left her unless they had perished.  The rest of her childhood was spent in a loveless orphanage.  When Lydia matures she obtains a job as a translator for the navy.  This gives her a sense of security as she goes about her work on her pristine desk and then home to her comfy home and predicable life.

Enter Alexander Bainbridge, a man who is more Adonis than human, who disrupts Lydia's life and draws her into adventures of intrigue.  'Bane' is complex himself, having been stolen as a child he became a drug lord of sorts and since he became a Christian he has been trying to atone for his crimes of trafficking opium.  When he meets Lydia, he feels that he has found the other half of his heart, but he can not allow himself to act upon the attraction he feels for her.  His powerful former captor is still trying to kill Bane who is... the bane of his existence (pun intended) and he can not risk Lydia in his battle.

What this story boils down to is: great characters and a plot that compels you to read until the end!  I loved this book as I loved her other book The Rose of Winslow Street.  I can't wait until her next book comes out!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.  Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".  

Love's Reckoning by Laura Frantz

This was a hard book to read.  Silas comes to the Lee household as an apprentice blacksmith.  He is unaware that he is expected to marry one of Liege Lee's daughters.  The despicable Elspeth has been 'given' Silas and she begins her campaign to woo Silas, but Silas is drawn to the gentleness in Eden.

The characters in this book are awful!  Eden is weak and lets everyone walk all over her.  Elspeth is so vile that I would not read a book if it was about her.  The father, Liege is a bitter and verbally abusive man and his wife is a spineless, voiceless coward.  The only redeeming character in the book is Silas; he has strength, compassion and ambition.

Not only are the characters horrible, but the plot is depressing.  It was painful watching the disfunction of this abusive family as darkness and evil are unfurled.  Just when you think light might enter the story, Eden's nephew is murdered and she is raped.  Only the last few chapters have any redeeming quality to them.

Boring and painful!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.  Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

Over The Edge by Mary Connealy

I just love a book that starts with a bang and keeps on going!  Callie is on her way to find her abandoning husband to shoot him when her stage coach is attacked.  Callie, being the tough Texas girl that she is, sends her baby out the back door with the preacher and his wife so that she can fight the outlaws and give her baby a chance to get out of this disaster alive.

Enter Seth, an injured and mostly crazy man; he can't remember getting married.  When he comes upon the stage coach and a bloody Callie, he almost loses his head when Callie starts shooting at him.  Callie is furious, but now that he's met his beautiful wife again he wants to make his marriage work.  Being abandoned with a baby on the way wounded Callie and she isn't convinced that Seth won't do that to her again.  She determines not to let Seth out of her sight until she can trust him not to run off again.  She isn't going to have a 'real' marriage again either until she can trust Seth not to hurt her.

There is also the matter of the stolen diamonds that continue from the previous two books in this series...  Can Callie and Seth overcome his mental issues and her trust issues in spite of the danger swirling around them?

Mary Connealy is one of my favourite authors for a reason!  She's funny and she knows how to grab your attention in a hurry and keep it.  I have read 12 of her books and have loved them all!

To Love and Cherish

Melinda is and excellent choice for a lady's maid.  Having grown up in the demanding world of the elite socialites, Melinda knows how to placate her demanding lady Mrs. Mifflin making herself invaluable.  What Melinda doesn't know how to do is make her expectations for marriage clear to Evan who is her beau on Bridal Veil.  Melinda and Evan separate for the season as each work their different jobs.

Evan wants to marry Melinda, but he holds off until he can get a promotion and support her as he feels is necessary.  When a hurricane hits the island in her worry Melinda rushes to the island to find out what happened to Evan and hopes to finally tie the knot despite the fact that everything is in a shamble.  Of course things happen to keep them apart and make them doubt the other's devotion...

Evan is a pretty dense fellow in my opinion.  That he couldn't understand Melinda's hopes for marriage and explain his position is ridiculous.  Melinda herself had some unreal expectations and I found that she annoyed me.  Despite the fact that their was a hurricane and then intrigue near the end of the book, I found this read to be plodding.    

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.   Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".  

Mary Magdalene by Diana Wallis Taylor

Who is Mary Magdalene?  She is a woman who was possessed by seven demons.  Imagine living with that!  Mary is kidnapped as a girl and is never the same after that.  She is afflicted with an illness that her parents cannot get treatment for.  Everywhere she goes she is called Mad Mary and she despairs of ever getting married and having a family.  Mary's story follows her through her debilitating illness, her healing at the hand of Jesus, and then her following of Jesus in his ministry.

I thought the author did a fair job of showing what it was like to live with demons in your person, but I never really felt the terror that Mary must have felt.  However, it was very thought provoking for me when Mary left Magdala to follow Jesus.  It had never crossed my mind that Jesus also had women with him and not just the disciples.  I was also mesmerized with the story of Jesus's faithful followers when he was crucified.  How the disciples and his other followers such as Mary would have grieved.  It was a confusing and heartrending time for them.

This is exactly the type of book that makes you examine your relationship with Jesus as you insert yourself into history.  It fills in the blanks of Mary's story as well and brings her to life.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.  Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

Whispers in the Wind by Lauraine Snelling

In the first book of this series, Cassie Lockwood left the Wild West Show where she had performed and lived her whole life.  Because of her 'uncle's' mismanagement of the show, Cassie is left with only her father's gypsy type wagon and a couple friends.  The story continues in the second book with Cassie arriving at the ranch she owns half of.  She and the Engstrom's try to figure out how it will all work out between them.

The mother Mavis is very welcoming because she has always known that a Lockwood might come back to claim their share of the ranch.  Mavis' son Ransom, however, had no such warning and he is having a difficult time even being civil to Cassie.  On the other hand, the other son Lucas figures that he is in love with Cassie.

Cassie has her own worries.  She has no where else to go and has formed a family with the friends that she brought with her.  Worry is her constant friend as she attempts to forge a home for her family and support them financially.  Will Cassie finally have the home she desires?

I liked the idea of this book, but I find that it is sloooowww.  The most exciting part of the series was at the beginning of the first book when the author describes Cassie life and act in the Wild West Show.  After that the series so far has moved at a snail's pace.  I wish the author would inject more humor and more of Cassie's riding skills into her story.  Perhaps I would enjoy the book more if she did.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.  Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".  

A Path Toward Love by Cara Lynn James

Katherine Osborne is desperately trying to keep her home and business, but debts and miss management of her late husband is making this even harder.  The Florida orchard that Katherine owns is in need of some funds to succeed, however the bank has denied her request because she is a woman on her own.  Although she comes from a very wealthy family, Katherine feels that she cannot ask her father for funds because they became estranged when she married against their wishes.

That is why it is surprising when her father shows up along with her long time friend Andrew and tries to bully her into going home with him to take up her life as a socialite.  Katherine negotiates a deal in which she will go to the family ‘cottage’ for the summer in exchange for funds for her orchard.

That is when the pressure begins in earnest for Katherine.  Her mother is determined to see her wed to a groom of their choosing.  however, Katherine is determined not to get married because her first marriage was far from ideal.  Through it all, Andrew and her eccentric aunt are the only ones she can trust and share her concerns with.  Andrew is obviously a love interest, but he is not the man her parents have chosen for her.  As the pressure mounts and Katherine faces more and more unpleasant surprises, can she find her way on a path toward love?

A Path Toward Love is a very good read. I did enjoy reading this book although I found the pressure her parents and the other surprises a little unrealistic.  I think that most people would have combusted under that kind of stress.  

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Inescapable by Nancy Mehl

Lizzie ran away from her hometown of Kingdom five years ago and vowed to never go back, but now she has a been framed for theft, is being stalked and has a daughter to protect.  Kingdom is the only place Lizzie can go to hide from her problems, yet she must face her painful past when she gets there.

Growing up in a strict Mennonite town and an even stricter Mennonite home, all Lizzie knows is criticism and judgement.  Yet when Lizzie returns she finds that her childhood memories are not necessarily reality when she reacquaints herself with the town and finds they are really very kind.  She also renews her friendship with Noah Housler, a former schoolmate.  Lizzie's daughter Charity thinks Noah is Prince Charming, but can he help her when the stalker shows up in her hometown?

Inescapable was a great book with a lot of depth to the characters.  I felt like I understood why Lizzie's father was so critical and cruel even though I didn't like his actions.  Lizzie's mother is also another complex character.  Why would she allow her daughter to suffer so?  Her conversation with Lizzie sheds light on the hurts and struggles she suffered through as well.  Ironically, the only character that I felt wasn't developed as much as I'd like was Noah.  I wish I would have seen a bit more interaction between him and Lizzie.

This was great suspense and a lovely romance as well.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.  Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".  

When Hope Blossoms by Kim Vogel Sawyer

Amy Knackstedt moved to Weaverly, Kansas to start fresh after the loss of her husband.  She wants to escape the memories and pain, but her escape from pain brings memories long dormant to the forefront of her neighbour Tim Roper's mind.  Tim left his Mennonite faith long ago hoping to never have anything to do with anything Mennonite again, but Amy's delightful family constantly reminds him of his loses.  


Tim tries to maintain his distance from the Knackstedts, but who can resist Adri (a precocious 5 year old), Parker (an 11 year old with disabilities who proclaims you his best friend), and Bekah (a compassionate and searching 13 year old).  Even Amy with her wholesome good looks and serenity is irresistible.  Eventually Tim questions whether his memories of his childhood were reality or if he saw his past through clouded lenses.  This also prompts him to renew his relationship with God.


While Tim is dealing with his memories, Amy is trying to sort out whether her husband Gabe's accident was a suicide.  Would he leave her and the children on purpose?  Yet through it all she is ever faithful to God and to living a life of integrity.  She becomes a light to Tim and a steady rock for her children.


This was a very good book.  I'm going to donate it to the church library so many others can enjoy it!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.  Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".  

Rare Earth by Davis Bunn

For a girl who loves her historical romance, this was a departure for me!  Why I chose this book is a mystery to me, but right from the start the writer captured my interest and didn't let go.  


Marc Royce is sent into Africa to deal with a crisis that arose after a volcano erupted and created chaos in the area.  However, the real reason that he's sent there is to uncover the person and reason behind a kidnapping and corruption in the organization that sent him there.  After an exciting and shaky start, Marc earns the respect of the tribal leaders and also the respect of Kitra, a UN nurse whose brother was abducted.  


Soon Marc finds that the danger comes from getting too close to the mystery of the minerals called rare earths.  These are used in electronics and are worth billions of dollars; enough money to justify killing to preserve the villains interest!


This book could be a movie!   It reminded me of the Jason Bourne movies (if Bourne was a Christian).  I loved the nonstop action and the cultural descriptions that brought the book alive.  Now I want to read the first book and any that follow Rare Earth!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.  Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".  

Tidewater Inn by Colleen Coble

While Libby's partner Nicole investigated the renovation possibilities of several historical buildings on Hope Beach, she discovers some news that astounds Libby.  Her father did not die when she was five, but he was alive until recently and has now left her the Tidewater Inn and other property as well.  She also has a family she never knew anything about!  Shortly after that Nicole is kidnapped while Libby watches it on a web cam and is powerless to help her friend.

It seems that Libby suffers blow after blow in this book.  Her friend is kidnapped and she becomes a suspect.  She discovers that her mother lied to her for years.  She has family she never even knew about and aside from her lovely aunt, her siblings want nothing to do with her.  What anchors Libby is "What would Jesus do?"   A necklace her father left her had that inscription, and it proves valuable as she navigates the many difficult days that follow Nicole's kidnapping.  I loved that practical part of the book and how it inspires me to think in the same way.

When you throw in a hunky coast guard and some elusive villains you have yourself a recipe for an exciting romantic suspense!  I thought the characters were believable and I found I had an emotional response to the difficulties that Libby was dealing with.  I'd definitely recommend this book to my friends.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Submerged by Dani Pettrey

Bailey Craig has to go back to the one place on earth that she doesn't want to go... Yancey, Alaska.  It is a place of shame and pain.  After her parents abandoned her to her aunt there, teenaged Bailey can't seem to cope with her pain and makes very poor choices earning her the nickname 'Easy Lay Bay'.  What's more, she will have to see Cole who is the guy she has never stopped loving.  Now her Aunt has been killed in a plane crash and Bailey being her sole heir goes to put her affairs in order and lay her to rest.


What Bailey doesn't know when she arrives in Yancey is that her Aunt was murdered and the body count keeps rising.  Bailey and Cole are thrown together as they both have skills necessary to help solve the mystery of these murders.  Cole and Bailey are both different people now.  Can they overcome the pain of their pasts?


This book reminded me of Dee Henderson's O'Malley series.  Cole has many siblings whose camaraderie is infectious.  You find yourself wishing you were part of their family as much as Bailey wishes she could be a part of it too.  Pettrey was also able to keep my attention with her action packed romantic suspense.  I can't wait to find out what happens to the next sibling in Pettrey's next book.


I received this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion whether good or bad.

Touching the Sky by Tracie Peterson

When Laura Marquardt first met Captain Brandon Reid, he did not make a favourable impression.  Some of his coloured soldiers had just finished rescuing Laura when he happened upon them.  He then proceeded to give Laura a dressing down for harassing his men.  Laura tried to explain, but Brandon just would not listen.  That seems like real life to me!

Fast forward a bit and Laura is trying to discourage her naive and shallow sister from marrying a man she does not trust and again finds that no one is listening to her.  Her sister does marry and her marriage is horribly abusive.  Laura overhears a plot masterminded by her brother in law and the only one she can trust to listen to her objectively is Brandon.  Ironically he has become important to Laura and he is also drawn to her.  Will they be able to stop the overheard plot and protect Laura's sister?

I liked this book because it wasn't all fluff and sap.  Laura and her family have trouble with the social connections they had before the war due to their support for the north.  Laura's sister Carissa has to live with the consequences of her decision to marry quickly, and the black people of the south have to live with their newfound 'freedom'.  Yet in all the realistic nuances of the setting and characters, the author still manages to write a sweet love story.  I enjoyed the book and found that it was also appropriate for my 13 year old daughter.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.   Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".  

Love in Disguise by Carol Cox

After Ellie's job as a theatrical wardrobe assistant is unexpectedly terminated she is left with few options.  Having been black listed by those in the theatre world, Ellie's options are few.  All she has left is money for a few more days lodging and a trunk full of costumes.  Acting on overhear conversation between a couple Pinkerton detectives, Ellie applies for a job as a detective.  When her female partner gets married, Ellie decides to carry on alone because she needs the job so badly.  This is where the fun begins!

Ellie becomes two people, Lavinia (an older widow) and Jessie (a vivacious redhead) as she investigates some mining thefts.  It was entertaining to watch Ellie develop and switch between her characters.  Her theatre life certainly came in handy even though she'd only ever been a behind the scenes employee.  She definitely threw herself into the roles providing believability to the story.

This is the perfect book for a summer vacation read.  Whether at the pool or camping, this book will keep you entertained.  The only caveat that I have is that the relationship with Steven was a smidgen shallow.  It seemed that he was mostly attracted to Jessie's outside beauty and really didn't know who Ellie was.  That is the only issue I had with the book and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Great fun!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.  Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".  

Through Rushing Water by Catherine Richmond

Sophia's beau humiliated her when he very publicly and surprisingly became engaged to her roommate.  It seemed providential that she heard a missionary speak on the need for workers in China right after this devastating turn of events.  So, without much thought or prayer, Sophia jumps in and lands herself in... Dakota territory working with the Ponca Indians.  The primitive conditions are a shock for this weathered world traveler.  Sophia was the daughter of an ambassador where she lived and travelled in many countries and social circles.  Little did Sophia realize that God would be using her political skills to minister to the Poncas that she comes to love.


This novel was a surprise to me.  I was out of reading material and thought I'd give it a chance.  I'm so glad I did.  Sophia's character has depth; her past experiences and therefore altered perceptions of the Poncas was fascinating.  That God was able to use her despite the fact that she signed up for missions for the wrong reason was thought provoking.  The other characters in the book also had depth to them.  From the sanctimonious preacher to the very attractive and compassionate Willoughby Dunn, I just couldn't wait to see what they would do next.  


This is a five star book!  You will not be disappointed.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Short-Straw Bride by Karen Witemeyer

This is the fourth book from Karen Witemeyer that I have read and it certainly won't be the last!  She has a delightful way of engaging you right from the start with a fast paced, enticing read.  


The book begins with a prologue where Meredith is being tormented by a childhood bully who throws her lunch pail onto the feared Archers land.  The bully goes on to describe the 'horrors' that have happened to people who actually step foot on that land instilling deep fear into poor little Meri's heart.  However, despite her fear Meredith attempts to retrieve her lunch pail and gets her foot caught in an animal trap.  It is Travis that gently rescues her and asks her not to dispel the rumours that the Archers are a nasty bunch.


Fast forward several years... The Archers are still isolated and Meredith is being pressured to marry a man she doesn't love.  When she overhears a plot by her 'almost' fiancee to burn the Archers off their land she immediately goes to warn Travis about the threat.  Things happen, her reputation is compromised through no fault of her own, and out come the straws!


This is a delightful book full of believable lovable characters as well as some despicable bad guys.  I love that Ms Witemeyer includes flaws in her characters; perfection can be tedious.  Travis certainly thought he had it all-together and it was amusing to watch this 'hermit' attempt to be a husband when he had absolutely no experience with women.  I could really go on and on... it all boils down to this, I loved it!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".  

The Pursuit of Lucy Banning by Olivia Newport

Lucy Banning is the daughter of a wealthy Chicago family.  She has long know what is expected of her and that is to be a well behaved socialite and wed a family friend's son.  However, Lucy stalls for time, afraid that if she weds Daniel she will be forced to give up her charity work and her classes at the university.  When architect Will enters the picture Lucy becomes even more confused about her future with Daniel.  He is the compelling friend of her bother who has a rags to almost riches story and Lucy enjoys his company right from the start.

Lucy and Wills relationship was not believable because of several missing scenes.  When did she fall in love with him?  Who knows?  The character's interaction was so brief that I just couldn't buy into their love.  Lucy's desire to be more than a socialite is undermined by her ability to lie to her parents and the fact that she actually decreases the amount of time she spends with her 'precious' orphans.

There are several subplots in the story, including the story of Charlotte who comes to the Banning household with her infant son hidden in her carpetbag.  She is fleeing a desperate situation and knows that she'll never find work with an infant.  This part of the story annoyed me because it was never completed but just left hanging.  Charlotte's story is never really revealed.  Also, Will's past is alluded to but also never really explored.  The description of the book makes it seem like the 1893 World's Fair was a big part of the story, yet even that was disappointing.

I found this book to be quite shallow both in character development as well as the narrative itself.  Perhaps if the book was longer the author would have had time to address all these issues, but since she did not I found it lacking.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

The Messenger by Siri Mitchell

What is Hannah Sunderland to do?  Her twin brother is imprisonned, yet her parents forbid her to help him because of their Quaker faith.   However, when she feels the cold and desperation that he feels through that weird twin connection she knows he must seek to help him.  How does a Quaker who cannot lie help a brother in jail?  She becomes a spy... of course!

Jeremiah Jones is a former soldier who is now a colonial spy and he needs help getting into the jail to help the prisoners escape.  Meeting Hannah is just what this spy needs to help him get information in and out of the prison.  Who would suspect a Quaker woman of trying to bring aid to her brother?

Hannah is conflicted about the beliefs the Quakers have instilled in her.  Are they right?  Should conflict be avoided at all cost?  Jeremiah is also challenged in this story.  He is embittered by his amputation and the loss of the quality of life he had before, but Hannah's quiet strenght and integrity affect him. 

While I enjoyed this read, I did not love it.  I found the story moved along at a meandering pace and unlike some of the other readers I was not spell bound.  I thought it was a good book...just not great.

I received this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion.

Prophet by R. J. Larson

Imaginative and compelling; this book is a great read.  The creativity required to create this fictional world that Ela lives in is mind boggling.  Right from the very first pages I was caught up in the story which was surprising for me because I was expecting a much drier story.  However, if you want a story that is full of incredible imagery, action, intrigue and a touch of romance, this book is for you.

Ela is a teenage girl whom the Infinite asks to be His prophet.  Ela accepts because she can't bear to lose his presence.  Leaving her home in Parne, Ela follows the Infinite's direction to go to Istgard where she is to confront the ruler there.  Along the way Ela encounters danger from beasts and men alike.  The story moves along quickly and I must say that my household duties were neglected as I just couldn't put the book down.

Prophet also provoked me to examine whether I was as devoted to God as Ela was to the Infinite.  She exhibits courage beyond her years as she confronts and speaks the Infinite's words.  I am inspired to be more like her... even if she is fictional.

I can't wait until the second book of the series comes out!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

Sarai by Jill Eileen Smith

The beauty of historical fiction is that it brings the past to life; this is never more evident then in the story of Sarai and Abram.  Many have read the accounting of their lives in the Bible, but it is entirely different matter to read about their lives in context with the cultural practices and landscape that the author describes.  

The book was very well written, however, I had a difficult time reading it.  Sarai's pain over her barrenness and the seemingly endless wait for the Promised Child really affected me.  That is a sign that Ms Smith wrote so well that she provoked an emotional response from me.  When Sarai offered Hagar to Abram to create the child they so longed for, I had to put the book down a lot because it hurt me to feel Sarai's torment in sharing her beloved Abram in such an intimate way.  

The book was very complex.  It wove the lives of those that were a part of Sarai and Abram's lives into the story seamlessly.  Hagar's story is also told in this book.  A maid taken from Egypt, Hagar's life with Sarai and Abram was decidedly different from all that she was accustomed to.  I appreciated that the author didn't make her a nameless character, but shared her feelings and struggles as she came to terms with her role.  As with Sarai's story, I also ached for Hagar.

Throughout all the struggles these characters endured it was evident in the book as well as the Bible that God was faithful.  I am glad that I read this book because I needed the reminder to trust God fully and not take things into my own hands as Sarai did.  Despite Sarai (and Abrams) waywardness, God loved and blessed Sarai, just as he does for us now.  

Sarai is an insightful and thought provoking read.  

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 

Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".  

His Steadfast Love by Golden Keyes Parsons

Set in the time of the Civil War, His Steadfast Love explores the division of the nation and families in this time.  Southern Amanda has the misfortune to fall in love with a Yankee soldier right before he is called back home to fight with the North.  Her father forbids contact with Kent because he feels they are irreparably separated in their thinking.  What's worse is that her brother Daniel goes off to fight the war for the Confederates.  Amanda is torn in her worry for Daniel and Kent.  

When Kent shows up later badly injured and the soldiers he's with have taken over their house and appropriated much of their limited supplies, Amanda and her preacher father must decide whether to try to save him.  However, as Amanda nurses Kent her heart becomes even more fully devoted to Kent even though she can't act on her feelings.  Again she is torn in her loyalty to her family and to the man she loves.

In all of this, Amanda is supported by the black slaves who have been with her family for years.  Having spent so much time with their slaves, Amanda views them more as family and even day dreamed of marrying their slave Washington when she was a child.  As an adult married Washington is still their slave, but he is also her protector.  Their friendship opens her eyes to the painful reality of slavery.

I thought the author did a fantastic job of exploring the issue of slavery from all sides and the division that resulted from that issue.  It was interesting to me that the angst of the nation was mirrored in what was happening in the homes across the nation.  Will the characters learn to depend on God?  Can Amanda and Kent's family forgive in order for them to marry?

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Chasing the Sun by Tracie Peterson

William Barnett returns home to find that his beloved family ranch has been confiscated by the government because his family went to fight with the North.  Hannah Dandridge followed her father to Texas after the death of her stepmother.  He was escaping the memories, she was being the dutiful daughter.  Now Mr. Dandridge is gone and his whereabouts unknown.  Hannah is filled with worry as she contemplates life without her father.  Will her father return?  How will she support her siblings?  Will she be able to retain the ranch without the help of a husband?  


William and Hannah come to an uneasy truce where Hannah allows him to remain on the ranch in return for his labor as the await a legal decision on the ownership of the ranch.  The tension between Hannah and William escalates as William just can't seem to help himself from bossing Hannah around.  Having had more than her fair share of male demands, she stubbornly refuses to acquiesce to his demands.  Throw in a slippery character who insists her father wanted to see them wed, as well as some savage indians and Hannah definitely has her hands full!


Forgiveness for others and trust in God were themes in this book.  I liked that Hannah's strength and compassion made such a difference in the outcome of the story.  Expounding on that statement will give too much of the story away.  I do wish that Hannah would have communicated better with William.  He wasn't her husband, why couldn't she say "quit bossing me around"?  Well, I'm sure the author could have been more eloquent than I.  All in all it was a easy and enjoyable read.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".  

Prize of My Heart by Lisa Norato

Loved it!  Captain Brogan Talvis has searched long for his son who was given to another family by his wife while he was away at sea.  Abigail Talvis is now dead and Bogan's three long years of searching for his son has produced the knowledge of his whereabouts.  He has finally found his son and plans to abduct him!  However, as Brogan gets to know the Huntleys who are now caring for his son, he realizes that he will need to befriend beautiful and compassionate Lorena in order to win his son's affection.  Brogan soon succumbs to Lorena's innocent and loving charms and must make a choice when Lorena is abducted by an overzealous suitor.  He must decide whether to chase down Lorena on her way to England or to make off with his son.  

I loved everything about this book!  Norato captured my attention from the start and made me long to know more about her characters.  Brogan is an orphan who has always longed for someone to call his own.  Lorena is a loyal and protective guardian who bakes to work through her troubled emotions.  What will happen when both their secrets are revealed?

This book is definitely a buy and I will read it again!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".  

Words Spoken True by Ann H. Gabhart

Spirited daughter of a news paper mogul, Adriane Darcy is engaged to a man she does not love.  However, she is determined to honour God and her father in obedience and go through with the wedding.  However when Adriane meets Blake Garrett (an editor from a competing newspaper) at a society event they are both covering, the sparks fly.  It is love at first sight... sigh...  What's a girl to do when she is engaged to a snobby socialite, but she wants her father's enemy?


While I did enjoy this novel I thought that the story really didn't get rolling until about the half way point.  I also kept waiting for the sparks to continue to fly after Adriane and Blake's first meeting, but there was very little contact between them for quite sometime. I suppose it is possible to fall in love at first sight, but my cynical mind has a hard time accepting that.  


The second half of the book increased its intensity and I was definitely engaged in the story.  The subplot in the book also became more interesting as the story progressed.  While I did enjoy the book, I did not find myself ignoring household chores like I do when reading a novel I can not seem to put down. 

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.   Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".  

In Too Deep by Mary Connealy

Audra doesn't have many options when her good for nothing husband dies. He leaves her penniless so she cannot support herself and their two children. If she had money, perhaps she could return to her father. However, he sold her to her late husband in payment of a debt. She could stay with her stepdaughter, but Julia is a newlywed and Audra does not want to be a burden to her. That is why Audra agrees to marry Ethan even though he doesn't love her and even seems apathetic to the idea.

Ethan's apathy is tested when villains come looking for Audra and the money her late husband stole. The problem is that Audra and Julia have no idea where the money is. This is no time for Audra to grow a back bone, but that is exactly what she attempts to do. Ethan doesn't want to fall in love with Audra since he let down his brother all those years ago. Fear of failing another he loves keeps him hiding behind his grin.

While I did enjoy this book as I do all of Mary Connealy's books, I did grow weary of the cave. The cave itself is a villainous character that should be dispatched or at least minimized. I also feel that this series is somewhat disrespectful to men in the language the women use. However, I would still buy this book and I look forward to the third book in this series.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group". 



Sixty Acres and a Bride by Regina Jennings

Widowed Rosa and her also widowed mother in law return to Texas after the death of their husbands.  They intend to take over the homestead that was leased while they were in Mexico, but when they arrive they find that the taxes have not been paid and that they owe $160!  What an outrageous amount of money for two women to raise in a short period of time.  Can they do it?  Can they raise enough money to save the ranch and their dreams?

Rosa is such a vibrant character who sticks out like a rose in a bunch of dandelions.  She is very discouraged by the constant blunders that she makes because of her cultural ignorance.  I made me realized how difficult it would be to immigrate and try to fit it.  Rosa is hard working and loving though and that makes up for her many blunders.

Weston is Rosa's cousin in law, he is a widower with a heap of guilt piled on him about the way his wife died.  He feels that he cannot love again because he fears he will be the cause of an other's death again.  However, he was captivated like I was with Rosa's vibrancy.  Yet Rosa herself feels she is unworthy of love.  Can Rosa and Weston get over themselves to find love?  You'll have to read to find out and you will not be sorry that you did!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group". 

The Maid of Fairbourne Hall by Julie Klassen

Margaret Macy has lived a life of privilege, but when her stepfather realizes that her mother's estate was not as padded as he expected he turns his eye to Margaret.  She is to inherit a great sum of money on her next birthday.  If he could but get his hands on that money all his financial woes would disappear.  Her stepfather is ruthless, even going so far as to suggest that his chosen 'fiance' rape Margaret in order to secure her cooperation.  The plan is overheard by Margaret and fearing for her safety she dons a disguise and flees with a recently dismissed maid.

What Margaret sees next is a real eye opener to the disparity between classes as she follows her former maid Joan into the slums and relative safety until she can figure out what to do next.  Eventually she ends up being hired as a maid for an estate owned by the Upchurches.  Both of the Upchurch brother Nathaniel and Lewis were former suitors, although it is only Nathaniel whose heart Margaret broke.  Now she must fumble along and learn the meaning of work as she tries to be a maid all the while hiding herself as best she can from the Upchurches.

Margaret has quite the task remaining hidden from Nathaniel and Lewis, but also from their sister Helen.  Everyone knows women are more discerning than men!  Margaret wants to reveal herself to Lewis at first since she feels that he may be her best chance for compassion, yet fear holds her back.  Overtime she realizes that Nathaniel is the man of character, not his playboy brother Lewis.  But can Nathaniel ever forgive her for the cold way that she ended their courtship?

It was entertaining to watch Margaret learn to do all the things that she would have had done for her in the past without any appreciation; such things as dumping the excrement from chamber pots!  She learns humility quickly.  I enjoyed learning about all the tasks that the household staff would take care of for their wealthy employers.  I never knew the extent of what their service would be. 

If Margaret can make it to her birthday and her inheritance unscathed, will she be a different person?  Will she respect those that serve her?  Will she find true love once news of her inheritance become well known?

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".



The Rose of Winslow Street by Elizabeth Camden

Libby is such a beautiful character that I wish I could actually meet her.  I don't think that I would possess even a fraction of her grace if I was to return from vacation to find a foreign family inhabiting my home all the while claiming to have the legal right to do so.  Although Michael is a big brute by first appearance, we soon find out that he is so much more than that.  He is a man who loves his family and is a protector that feels his only option is to move his family to America and into the house that he inherited.  His character is interestingly complex, on one hand he is a rugged brute and on the other he is a gifted perfume maker.  Michael made me think of scent in a way which I'd never thought of before.  He is at times unsophisticated and yet highly educated.  I went from being angered with his behaviour to rooting for him to succeed.  What a feat that the author managed to make him an antagonist and protagonist at the same time.

Libby captivated me at every turn with her kindness and grace.  She epitomizes what it is to love one's enemy.  It intrigued me that her deficiency did not detract from her beauty, but rather it made her all the more likeable.  She must have had quite a struggle growing up in the shadow of such a brilliant, eclectic professor father, yet she prevailed through the grace of God.  I felt her insecurities and dreams and wanted her to be loved for who she was.  It was difficult to discern who I should root for to 'win' the house because both Libby and Michael had my preference at one time. 

This was a beautiful love story with intrigue as well.  Well written and fast paced, this book is a must buy! 

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".  

Love on the Line by Deeanne Gist

As always, Deeanne has managed to pair history with a great story!  Who would have thought that a telephone operator would make for such an interesting story?  Georgie is a character with a somewhat feminist point of view with a past that shaped her into a fiercely independent woman.  Enter a relentless Texas Ranger who expects a woman to submit to his authority and watch the sparks fly!

All Georgie wants is to live independently and to protect her birds (I thought the author went a little over the top in this area).  I found the ins and outs of the telephone operation quite fascinating as I imagined what it would be like to live in that time where everyone could find out little tidbits by listening on the line. 

Luke brought a lot of upheaval to Georgie's life when he barges in and attempts to take over her domain.  He is undercover trying to infiltrate a notorious gang of train robbers that have long eluded him.  I thought it was interesting that the townspeople were so enamored with the fabled gallantry of the gang leader Frank Comer, yet they disdained the Texas Ranger who was trying to apprehend him.  I wonder if there are parallels in this time and age?

I enjoyed watching the love story of Luke and Georgie unfold as they sorted through their confusion over each other.  This was a fun, fast paced love story with some suspense thrown in for good measure.  I would definitely buy this book and any others Deeanne Gist chooses to write, because I enjoy her novels that much!

*In exchange for my honest opinion, I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House.