I don’t usually review cookbooks … but I do review cozy mysteries, and A Bad Hair Day Cookbook is the best of both worlds. It’s a cookbook w4.5 stars
I don’t usually review cookbooks … but I do review cozy mysteries, and A Bad Hair Day Cookbook is the best of both worlds. It’s a cookbook within a cozy mystery universe, a concept which I find delightful in every way.
Right away, Cohen introduces us to Marla Vail, the protagonist in her Bad Hair Day mystery series, and then ‘Marla’ takes over and the rest of the cookbook is mostly from her point of view. This technique serves to engage fans of the series, as well as people who haven’t read any of the books yet, and it enhances the book snippets that occur at the end of each recipe category. I also especially loved reading the article on a Sabbath Dinner, written by Cohen’s mother, included at the end of the book.
All the recipes look delicious! I’m most anxious to try the Citrus Cider (seems very cozy and perfect for the holidays, Chicken Spaghetti (her version seems less involved than others I’ve tried), Zucchini Quiche (love light meal ideas!), and the Strawberry Cobbler (because… how is that a bad idea?).
Bottom Line: A Bad Hair Day Cookbook is a great way to find yummy new recipes and a cozy mystery series to try (or keep following) all at the same time. More than ‘just’ a cookbook, this is a fun collection of recipes with a cozy mystery twist sure to tantalize your taste buds and your avid reader radar as well. Cohen also adds a personal touch throughout, from her protagonist as well as the author’s own heritage, and readers will appreciate these meaningful peeks into both lives.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
A Christmas Home is everything you want in a Christmas read, Amish or not. Snowy days, family, faith, friends, yummy food, adorable kids, fa4.5 stars
A Christmas Home is everything you want in a Christmas read, Amish or not. Snowy days, family, faith, friends, yummy food, adorable kids, falling in love. The fact that it is set in Amish country adds even more charm to this heartwarming story.
Sarah Yoder is a tenderhearted young woman with an intuitive wisdom and a nurturing heart. This makes her the perfect choice to step in and help Noah Raber with the business side of his furniture side – but an even more perfect choice to capture his heart – and that of his precocious (and motherless) twin boys. The story isn’t as predictable as you might guess, though – one pretty insurmountable obstacle stands in their way and it’s a doozy. I loved that Noah and Sarah were both people of strong faith and integrity but also that they struggled realistically with the complications of life and their growing feelings for each other.
I thought I knew how it would probably play out – and I was right – but the process of getting there kept me second guessing my initial predictions. Along the way, I fell in love with all of them – Sarah, her grandmother, her cousin & his young family, Noah, his boys (especially tenderhearted Mark), and even his parents. I’m delighted that this is a series because I hope to see glimpses of all of the above in future books, too.
Perry’s writing is engaging and immediately draws you in to the setting, the plot, and the characters. If you’ve never read one of her books before, you’ll readily see why she’s such a popular writer. I never felt that the story lagged or that my attention waned – especially because I wanted to see how this potential romance was going to be possible. It’s a fairly quick read, perfect for a wintry evening (or a warm late autumn night that you wish were wintry) or weekend.
Bottom Line: Grab a mug of your favorite hot beverage and a handful of homemade cookies, and settle in for this delightful story of love, faith, and the holiday spirit. The gentle theme of knowing when to forgive, when to stand up for yourself, and when to accept help is woven organically throughout the story – along with flawed but endearing characters who win your heart. Really enjoyed this sweet romance! Looking forward to another visit to Promise Glen in the (hopefully) near future.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
“There are times when we need to hold out faith and hope even when the circumstances seem impossible.”
This. Book.
It’s gorgeously imagined, flawlessly “There are times when we need to hold out faith and hope even when the circumstances seem impossible.”
This. Book.
It’s gorgeously imagined, flawlessly executed, and deeply felt. The characters are multi-dimensional, something that is highlighted even more clearly in the first person narrative from different perspectives. This is sometimes a tricky device to pull off well, but – no surprise – Jody Hedlund achieves it with excellence.
Can you tell I’m still flailing over how GOOD this series is???
The emotions run high in Evermore, even more so than they did in Always. Adelaide, Christopher, and Mitchell all have very layered backstories, and while we are privy to some of Adelaide’s if we’ve read Always, it’s unfolding for her in ‘real time’ as she begins putting all the pieces of her past together. Watching her come into her own as a queen who seeks wisdom from God – and doesn’t cower from danger but stands up for the mistreated & oppressed, caring deeply for those she loves – is truly inspiring. Seeing how that fits in with the legend about the lost treasure and the lost princesses made me even more giddy to read the next two books.
Christopher… oh swoon. Strong but vulnerable, especially where Adelaide is concerned. The looks he gives her, even in the briefest moments when he can no longer hide his feelings for her, made her pulse go all twitterpated – and mine too! The guilt he wrestles with – as well as his misguided fears of inadequacy – add depth and a little angst to his swooniliciousness. I loved him in every scene, but particularly when he was being most tender with Adelaide (kissing the top of her head and breathing her in – WHERE’S MY FAN?!?) as well as anytime he shared a scene with King Draybane (i loved that king!) and whenever he turned on his charm full force. (There I go, swooning again.)
Bottom Line: Evermore is a masterpiece of fiction – this whole series is shaping up to be so. Adventure, romance, bravery, courage, loyalty, godly wisdom, and true love (even from unexpected sources) are all wrapped up in a tale laced with legend and intriguing possibilities. You’ll want to keep reading, unable to put it down, but at the same time you won’t want it to end. The characters take up residence in your heart and stay there for the duration – and I know I’ll be thinking about them for a long time to come. Uh, can I have that next book now, please?
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
“Sometimes, when we think we’ve come to a dead end, we’ve arrived instead at God’s stepping stone on the way to bigger plans.”
Oh my heart. Y’all. This“Sometimes, when we think we’ve come to a dead end, we’ve arrived instead at God’s stepping stone on the way to bigger plans.”
Oh my heart. Y’all. This is “just” the prequel novella. But there’s nothing “just” about it… unless you count “just beautiful”, “just perfect”, “just ripped out my heart”, “just left me in a swoony little puddle”.
I was immediately immersed into this emotional, romantic, high-adventure story – right from the very first page – and I couldn’t put it down until the very end. At which point I promptly began reading Evermore and am trying to figure out how to get copies of the next two books like right now because THIS STORY ARC. Y’all. It’s everything I love about medieval historical romance especially with a bit of fairy tale flair.
It doesn’t really even feel like a novella. The story is so richly developed with perfect pacing, not too rushed or too slow. From the king and queen (even as briefly as they are on the page) to those who are caring for and protecting the princesses before Lance and Felicia take them away, to Lance and Felicia themselves, and the nuns who provide much-needed and timely refuge – all the characters are also fully layered and fleshed out.
Bottom Line: Always may “only” be a novella but it’s as beautifully written as a full-length novel. It sets an intriguing stage for the rest of the series to build on, too, and I can’t wait to (hopefully) meet up with Lance & Felicia again in a later book. Tender, breathless romance plus high-stakes danger & adventure, along with a sweet theme of trusting God – instead of leaning on your own strength or wisdom – all combine to deliver a fabulous read you’ll love for … well… always.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
Forever, Lately was a delightful surprise! Time travel books can be pretty tricky to pull off well, but Burkard did just that – with an engaging balanForever, Lately was a delightful surprise! Time travel books can be pretty tricky to pull off well, but Burkard did just that – with an engaging balance of charm, wit, and romance. The mechanics of the time travel are smartly plotted and cleverly presented, and now I want a prayer shawl… and a cottage in Maine… just in case.
I love that Claire’s a writer & that she ends up in the world she thought she had created. (a fun twist to be had there, as well!) Speaking of Claire, she’s a genuinely likable protagonist and readers will easily find themselves relating to her even if said readers are neither writers nor time travelers themselves. I loved her ‘notes to self’, though I wished they had continued all the way through; they cleverly give us insight into Claire’s emotions or thoughts without the author having to specifically tell us.
And then there’s St. John. SWOON ALERT! A redeemed rogue whose resolve toward gentlemanly behavior is sorely tested by Claire and how she utterly intrigues him. His intentionally scandalous kiss – after making sure the maid is watching to confirm his rogueish behavior for wooing-certainty purposes – may make you as weak in the knees as it does Claire. There are also times when he’s channeling Hugh Jackman in Kate & Leopold but with more humor, and he’s so endearing in those moments that he’ll have you grinning through entire conversations.
Bottom Line: Forever, Lately by Linore Rose Burkard is smart and witty, heartfelt and romantic. There are some characters you’re meant to love – and you do – and some characters you’re meant to strongly dislike – and you do. Several surprising twists keep you on the edge of your reading chair and along for the ride, and the swoonilicious romance has you hoping for the power of true love to cross time. I would love to spend more time with these characters – please say a sequel (and maybe even a prequel!) is planned!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
This is such an enjoyable series! I read Belinda Blake and the Snake in the Grass ahead of reading Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing for this review 4.5 stars
This is such an enjoyable series! I read Belinda Blake and the Snake in the Grass ahead of reading Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing for this review & loved it as well. You can definitely read book 2 as a stand alone but it will just make you want to read book 1 so you might as well start from the beginning.
Belinda is just adorable. She’s sweet and sassy and relatable, despite the exotic animals she tends. I love that her best friends are her family, and I love the ‘guy next door’ even more, especially when his eyes give away his feelings for Belinda (even though she’s a little clueless lol). Jonas (said guy next door) is super swoony and steady at the same time. He truly cares for Belinda, and while their budding romance is moving slowly I can’t wait to see how the author continues to develop their friendship. Belinda’s pregnant sister is equally delightful, and I love her mama bear tendencies toward her little sis. Her occupation as a psychologist comes in handy, too, as she helps Belinda talk through the suspects. I love Red too – everyone needs a Red on their side!
Gilbert gives personality and heart to the wolf packs that Belinda is helping with at the preserve, while also keeping them true to their wild nature. I fell in love with Njord & Freya especially and, even though nearly all the humans at the preserve are a bit of a hot mess, I hope we get to see the wolves again. The double murder mystery takes several unexpected twists and turns and definitely keeps Belinda – and readers – on her toes. It’s well-plotted and nicely paced, smart and entertaining.
Bottom Line: Belinda Blake and the Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing is everything I love about cozy mysteries – and more! Belinda is a delightful heroine, and her interactions with the exotic pets in her care have now made me love a snake & a couple of wolves too. The story is well-written with wit and heart, as well as more layers and depth than we usually see in cozies. Add in a wealth of potential suspects & some surprising twists and reveals … and a simmering romance with a swoony fella … and you’ve got another must-read from this author.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
Sitting down with a new Kate Hamilton book by Connie Berry is, quite simply, pure delight. These are the kinds of stories I look forward to with barelSitting down with a new Kate Hamilton book by Connie Berry is, quite simply, pure delight. These are the kinds of stories I look forward to with barely-suppressed eagerness, the sort of warmly delicious novels one can curl up with and become instantly immersed into. The type of book I will pull out and re-read because I just adore the writing voice, the rich turns of phrases, and the development of the plot.
One of the things I loved most about A Dream of Death was the gorgeous writing, and it’s one of my favorite aspects of A Legacy of Murder, too. Sentences like… “Irregular panes of glass set into tall banks of mullioned windows reflected the light like a patchwork quilt of mirrors.”… make my reader heart sigh in bookish bliss. Not trying too hard or too needlessly verbose, just a beautiful way of expressing description and insights. Additionally, the construct of the plot in this sophomore novel is even more intricate than in Berry’s debut. Intriguing, multi-layered murders and thefts (some decades old in both cases) share the stage with an authentic look at life, love, and the combination thereof – not to mention well-defined characters, some of whom enhance the story just by being on the page. (I’m looking at you, Ivor!)
Kate’s struggles (in between mystery-solving) in this book are easily relatable, especially for women in the same stage of life, and Kate herself is just as easily liked. She’s smart, witty, warm, and strong – but also honest in her fears and insecurities. And Tom – oh how I love Tom. He’s certainly not without his faults but he’s just such a good guy. I can’t wait to see what the author has in store for their relationship in book #3, and I’m excited about all the storyline possibilities (mysteries included) that the author sets the stage for toward the end of this book.
Bottom Line: A Legacy of Murder is well-plotted and engaging, with layered characters and a lovely English village setting. The writing voice (delightfully enhanced by the first person narrative) wraps you in a warm hug, the descriptions and word choices at times nearly poetic as they flow easily off the page. The mysteries keep piling up in this book and I was intrigued by each one. The perfect choice to curl up with this weekend!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
“Murder in the library always makes for a busy day.”
This author’s cozy mysteries are always fun reads, whether she’s writing as Vicki Delany4.5 stars
“Murder in the library always makes for a busy day.”
This author’s cozy mysteries are always fun reads, whether she’s writing as Vicki Delany or Eva Gates, and Read and Buried may be my favorite yet. I laughed several times throughout at the delightful mental images the author created, and though I thought I had the culprit figured out I was completely off base.
I’ve only read one other book in this series (because I need to figure out a way to pause time so I can catch up on my TBR list) and it was #4, which I also enjoyed. How I missed #5 I have no idea, but be that as it may I was able to read this sixth book (and the fourth one too, for that matter) without feeling lost.
More than once in Read and Buried, Lucy is surrounded by what can only be described as madcap mayhem, thanks to the hilariously quirky cast of supporting characters, including Charlie the resident library cat. Specifically, the scene when they’ve finally cracked the code, and nearly the entire town is racing to the library, thanks to classic small town word-of-mouth. “Conner’s coming down the town hall steps. He’s running for his car.” (observed out the back window of the lead car in the procession haha!) Or when they figure out what the code leads to… It’s like a scene from one of those old Disney live-action movies from the 80s. Hilarious.
"Police officers, library patrons, librarians, the mayor of Nags Head, construction workers, assorted interested persons, and one big cat trotted after Zack."
Lucy is a lovable protagonist/amateur sleuth, and her first-person narrative voice adds a lot to the mood and cadence of the story. So does the setting – a library in an old historic lighthouse, complete with an apartment for Lucy at the top. Readers get a little inside peek at the inner workings of a library, while also enjoying the Outer Banks scenery and the colonial and Civil War era history. I’m most interested in learning more about the Freedman’s Colony mentioned in the book, and to that note I loved this particular subplot in Read and Buried.
Bottom Line: A real-life historic lighthouse is the fictional home of the Lighthouse Library and the perfect setting to the Lighthouse Library Mysteries by Eva Gates. Lucy makes for an engaging and lovable heroine, and readers will enjoy tagging along as she tries to solve the case in Read and Buried. Along the way, a ragtag and hilarious cast of secondary characters entertains and keeps readers chuckling. The well-plotted mystery and nicely paced flow of the story hold your attention from beginning to end and deliver a highly enjoyable read that’s perfect for cozy night or weekend.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
Fatal Memories is another edge-of-your-seat, action-never-lets-up thrill ride from Love Inspired Suspense & Tanya Stowe. From the moment Joss wakes upFatal Memories is another edge-of-your-seat, action-never-lets-up thrill ride from Love Inspired Suspense & Tanya Stowe. From the moment Joss wakes up in that tunnel and tells herself to “Crawl! Wake up and crawl!” you are firmly invested in her story – and you’ll stay that way until the last word.
The element of amnesia serves as a very effective plot device in keeping readers guessing right along with Joss and Dylan (the DEA agent in charge of the investigation) – is Joss guilty or innocent? if she did do what they’re accusing her of, is there a valid reason? where is her brother & what part (if any) does he play in what happened to Joss? is there anywhere Joss and Dylan can be safe from the people out to silence her permanently? My heart was in my throat more than once as the story progressed into imminent danger yet again.
Another thing I loved about the amnesia angle is that, even while she can’t remember much about who was and what she did, the forgetting serves to help Joss determine who she wants to be. This juxtaposition added further dimension to the story, as well as the romance brewing between Joss and Dylan.
And let’s not leave Dylan out of this discussion! The DEA agent is dedicated to his job, even when he needs to put his own feelings about someone (Joss) aside. Yet at the same time he’s determined to keep her safe in the meantime & that just makes him even swoonier. Especially when he’s back in his own element, with his horses and the rugged Arizona backdrop.
Bottom Line: Fatal Memories by Tanya Stowe is action-packed, heart-stopping romantic suspense. With danger around every bend, the element of uncertainty, and the high stakes, you won’t want to put this book down until you’ve turned the last page. Add in the engaging characters & swoony romance … this is a must-read for fans of authors like Lynette Eason or Irene Hannon.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
“Her life was looking less and less like one of Miss Austen’s novels and more and more like an utter mess."
I don’t stray much from reviewing Christian“Her life was looking less and less like one of Miss Austen’s novels and more and more like an utter mess."
I don’t stray much from reviewing Christian fiction & cozy mysteries, but occasionally a book that doesn’t fit either of those categories so captures my attention that I simply have to read/review it when given the opportunity. Such is the case with Dangerous Alliance, a debut Edwardian novel from author Jennieke Cohen. From the great cover to the intriguing blurb, I was hooked.
Then I started reading… And I was instantly drawn into the story, too. It starts off with a bang (to poor Vicky’s head) and proceeds to become more layered and complex as it progresses. Weaving in awareness of women’s rights as far as domestic abuse, divorce in those situations, inheritance, etc. all added even more depth to the plot – but there are also plenty of lighter, witty moments that offset the more sobering ones (while still giving this subplot the attention it deserves). For instance, there’s lots of fun banter, as well as Vicky’s amusing courting incidents in her search for a mate out of necessity – in fact, there was more than one scene (especially when Sheldon the butler got involved) that made me chuckle out loud.
I also loved that Jane Austen is a contemporary of Vicky’s, for all intents and purposes. While the author herself doesn’t make an appearance in the story, she’s much talked about, particularly as Vicky relates most everything she does to what her favorite (or least favorite) Austen heroines would do. This also prompts some fun conversations between Vicky and Tom (her former best friend from childhood), the latter a mix of Darcy and Knightley for much of the story and not at all understanding what the fuss is about concerning these new novels written by ‘a lady’.
She was still very much like the girl he remembered who’d believed in fairy stories, except now she believed in the novels of some Miss Austen.
Tom’s story is deliciously complex and tragic, and I came to love him as a hero more with every new layer of his past & present that was uncovered. His friendship since childhood with Vicky keeps things interesting between them in the present, as does the uncertainty the author creates as to exactly what his role is in Vicky’s future. There’s more than one viable possibility for a husband – guys with snuff addictions & runaway phaetons & weirdly waggling caterpillar-eyebrows notwithstanding – so it’s not completely clear who will win her heart… until it is. What is certain is that Vicky is feisty and smart and loves fiercely, and anyone who claims her hand in marriage is in for an adventure.
“You’re not like Mr. Darcy. And I wouldn’t have you be. You’re you. And I wouldn’t trade you for a dozen perfect gentlemen.”
Bottom Line: Dangerous Alliance is a delightful romp through Edwardian England, spurred on by the at-the-time-contemporary novels of Jane Austen & a spirited heroine who loves them. A bit of well-constructed suspense and a sensitively-portrayed subplot involving domestic abuse & women’s rights of the day add depth & dimension to an already-layered plot, and well-timed humor gives the right amount of levity when needed. Not to mention the swoony romance in play, as well, and the novel’s very satisfying conclusion. I look forward to reading more from this author!
“Ladies with no dowries find wealthy husbands who cherish them. Worthy men act honorably. Life should be so tidy and end so happily.”
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
Mulberry Mischief is my first read of the Berry Basket Mysteries. I jumped right into this series with no problem following the characters o4.5 stars
Mulberry Mischief is my first read of the Berry Basket Mysteries. I jumped right into this series with no problem following the characters or the setting, etc., and though it was obvious that there were books/storylines before this one I didn’t feel lost.
Marlee is a really likable protagonist, and the supporting characters in her friendship circle are equally engaging. I especially liked her friend Theo and her boyfriend (and swoony police officer) Kit. The former has a sincere heart, despite his social awkwardness, and even though this was my introduction to Theo I could see his character growth across the series based on the author’s seamless descriptions in this book. Kit is protective and smart, and he seems to be a great match to Marlee. As with any good cozy mystery small town, there are a bevy of quirky characters, two of whom play an important role in Mulberry Mischief. And considering that we meet most of her friends in costume at the Harvest Health Fair they all seem a bit quirky.
Leticia the Lake Lady’s story is absolutely fascinating, and as the pieces began coming together the layers intrigued me even more. Lots of twists and turns – and suspects – in this well-developed plot, and you’ll be riveted to the story until the final reveal. Which, by the way, is a brilliant mix of heart-in-your-throat suspense and small town hilarity.
Bottom Line: Mulberry Mischief is everything delightful that you want in a cozy mystery. Quaint small town, intriguing & layered characters, solid & diverse friendships, and a smart plot that unravels at the perfect pace. This may have been my first visit to Marlee’s Berry Basket shop (and mysteries), but it definitely won’t be my last.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
“On the Isle of Glenroth, memories and regrets lay as thick on the ground as yellow gorse in autumn.”
I love traditional British mysteries – they’re a “On the Isle of Glenroth, memories and regrets lay as thick on the ground as yellow gorse in autumn.”
I love traditional British mysteries – they’re a different level of cozy mystery because you just want to cozy up with them in front of a roaring fire and a warm quilt. Debut novelist Connie Berry has crafted a delicious, atmospheric mystery with rich language, a relatable heroine, and a tangible setting. Did I mention it’s set on an island in Scotland and there’s a yummy British detective who is staying at the inn too?
The opening sentences (including the one I quoted above) immediately drew me in, and the pages that followed kept me riveted to the almost poetic word-crafting and the complex & intriguing plot. Antiques dealer Kate Hamilton is a middle-aged heroine who is returning to the island where her husband died a tragic death three years before, returning after a frantic summons from her estranged sister-in-law. But before Elenor can explain why she needed Kate’s help, more tragedy strikes and soon Kate finds herself drawn into an investigation where “every question raised others. Every clue deepened the confusion.” Berry cleverly weaves together a tapestry of suspects that kept me guessing every time I thought I had it figured out, and readers shouldn’t relax until the very last word has been read. There’s also a bit of a split-time angle as well that serves to further enhance both the atmosphere and the mystery.
Bottom Line: Berry’s debut novel is a warm, cozy delight from start to finish, embodying everything that is lovely about British mysteries while adding an American flair as well, courtesy of the easy-to-love heroine Kate Hamilton. I am definitely looking forward to more books in this series, to seeing where Kate’s amateur sleuthing – and relationships – take her next, and to the treat of every well-placed word and subtle notes of grace in future books by this author.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
Marriage of convenience is one of my favorite tropes in romantic fiction, and Hilton delivers one that is sure to tug on all your emotions. Don’t worrMarriage of convenience is one of my favorite tropes in romantic fiction, and Hilton delivers one that is sure to tug on all your emotions. Don’t worry, though, this isn’t a heavy or depressing book. There are some scenes that may leave you teary-eyed or anxiously holding your breath, but there’s also plenty of humor throughout, as well as heartwarming moments, some delightful surprises, and those swoony scenes I mentioned earlier.
While Hilton certainly excels at pulling a variety of emotions out of her readers, she also excels at creating layered characters you’ll easily embrace and root for during their own stories – and any time you see them on the pages of her books thereafter. Gideon and Bethel are no different, from their conflicted emotions to the way they’ve been connected all along (loved this! it was responsible for some delighted grins AND a few tears on my part) and even their sizzling chemistry.
Speaking of dear & delightful characters, Bishop Miah is around once again to offer words of wisdom… some which make sense and some which don’t (until later) but that’s part of his charm and why I love him. There are also visits with familiar faces such as Gabe & Bridget and Isaac & Agnes – and some characters whose stories I hope are coming soon! I want to know about Bethel’s sister… about Gideon’s sister… about Kish… I NEED MORE!!! (I’m trying to appear to be patient. Am I succeeding? lol) Each book reads well as a standalone too, but each book is also excellent in its own right and needs to be read ASAP!
Bottom Line: Once again, Hilton combines multi-dimensional and relatable characters with wit, sizzle, heart, and faith to deliver a story that draws you in from the very beginning and keeps you absorbed in the plot until the very end. The situation in which Gideon and Bethel find themselves is complex and emotional – no easy answers to be had, no clear-cut options to be seen. (There are kisses, though! Swoonilicious, oh-yeah-they’re-married kind of kisses.) Married to a Stranger gives us a story you can sink your heart into, truth you can embrace for your own heart, and a Jesus you can trust to redeem and restore the broken places of your life.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
“She wasn’t sure what response she’d been expecting… Whatever it was, though, it hadn’t been this weighted silence that hung in the air like an impend“She wasn’t sure what response she’d been expecting… Whatever it was, though, it hadn’t been this weighted silence that hung in the air like an impending storm.”
I was completely captivated by A Daughter’s Truth from the first sentence to the last. The author’s pitch perfect writing voice weaves words, characters, and settings beautifully into a story that hits you in all the feels.
The plot is straightforward enough but the emotions behind it are truly complex, and Bradford presents them all tenderly and with gentle insight. Emma’s story is multi-layered and, since an easy solution doesn’t exist in this case, you will quickly become deeply invested in this character and how her looming decisions will play out on the page. There’s a lot more I want to say about Emma, her history, and her future but I’m trying to be careful not to spoil the story for you.
I will say that the trinkets left on Ruby’s grave every year on Emma’s birthday drew me to this story in the first place (along with the fact that I will read pretty much anything that Laura Bradford writes). The trinkets in and of themselves brought out my inner Nancy Drew, and as this part of the story came into sharper focus, I drank in the explanations for each one right along with Emma.
Speaking of Emma, I just loved her. She is genuinely likable with a steady spirit but a lifetime of insecurities she struggles to overcome. That steady spirit is challenged from nearly every direction in A Daughter’s Truth, though, and your emotions will take the ride along with her. You’ll be cheering her on from the sidelines in the joyous moments, and your heart will break right along with hers as everything she knew is turned upside down. I also loved Miss Lottie and Levi and the support & advice they gave her during the story, staying faithfully by her side and being her rock more than once.
Bottom Line: Make sure you’ve carved out however much time you need to read A Daughter’s Truth in one sitting because you won’t want to put it down once you become immersed in the complexities of Emma’s plight. There is no ‘quick fix’ or ‘pat answer’ to be had here, and I confess that – with about 20 minutes left in the book (per my reading speed) - I became a bit concerned at how the author would tie it all up without becoming trite. I needn’t have worried – the resolution was as layered and healing as the situation itself. The themes of family (the kind we are born into and the kind we make ourselves), forgiveness (of the deepest kind of hurt & betrayal), and belonging (by embracing what makes us who we are at our core) touched my heart more than once and make this a must-read for everyone, even if you’re not a fan of Amish fiction & especially if you are.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
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