The Naturalist’s Daughter is my first read by Tea Cooper, and my first read to feature the platypus, to the best of my knowledge. The two timelines – The Naturalist’s Daughter is my first read by Tea Cooper, and my first read to feature the platypus, to the best of my knowledge. The two timelines – separated by 100 years – each follow two smart and engaging women who stand on the cusp of great discovery. In 1808, Rose Winton idolizes her father and loves helping with his groundbreaking research into the platypus, also called the mallangong by the aboriginals that live around their home in rural Australia. In 1908, we meet Tamsin Alleyn, an employee of the Public Library in Sydney who is charged with retrieving and authenticating a donated sketchbook purported to belong to the 19th century naturalist Charles Winton.
Rose is gregarious and sharp, gifted in art as well as science. She loves her parents and would do anything for her father. She’s a bit of a free spirit who cares little for social restraints or society’s expectations. Even when she is sent reeling (on multiple occasions) by some surprising events and their ramifications, she bravely does what needs doing and I completely respected her for this. In fact, her part of the story is what initially engaged my interest when I started reading this novel. But it was Tamsin’s story that ultimately kept me turning the pages. I really enjoyed following her as she tracked down clues and documents and long-held secrets in hopes of proving that the sketchbook was indeed Winton’s. Of course as readers, we already know it is (thanks to the 1808 timeline) but like Rose, Tamsin’s journey ends up taking some unexpected turns too. And it’s these particular twists – and how they link back to Rose’s story – that eventually made the 1908 timeline my favorite of the two.
Bottom Line: The Naturalist’s Daughter by Tea Cooper is smartly-plotted historical fiction that will appeal to a variety of readers, told across two timelines with more than one mystery to solve, several intriguing discoveries, and even a dash of romance. Full of colorful and compelling characters (including one of my faves, Gayadin), the story also allows readers to travel to the 19th and early 20th century Australia from the comfort of their preferred reading spot – something that American readers don’t often get to do and something that I definitely enjoyed experiencing. The narrative and the writing voice drew me in right away and, even though it dragged a bit in the middle for me, my attention was firmly gripped again by the end. If you’re looking to read something outside of the ‘same old, same old’ of historical fiction, then you’ll definitely want to give The Naturalist’s Daughter a try.
Reviewer’s Note: Followers of my reviews may want to be aware that there is a mild amount of cursing in this novel, and while it’s mostly mild in content as well there are a couple of stronger words and profanities.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
Do you love grumpy/sunshine? Opposites attract? Forced proxmity? Pairing a big, hulking, not the most coordinated hero with a tiny, petite h4.5 stars
Do you love grumpy/sunshine? Opposites attract? Forced proxmity? Pairing a big, hulking, not the most coordinated hero with a tiny, petite heroine (or, what I call the ‘Disney’s Beauty & the Beast’ trope)? Hockey romance? Celebrity dance competitions? Then you absolutely need to read Pointe, Shoots and Scores by Carolyn Miller!
I fell in love with Luc and Bailey together from their initial meet cute and my adoration of this pair only grew stronger with each new scene. Their chemistry is immediate, their banter made me grin big, and their mutual affection is so endearing to watch. And the kisses – whew! Keep a fan handy but also there is an undercurrent of tenderness that made them all the sweeter & all the swoonier – and the fact that all of it is wrapped in respect and a love for God and His boundaries is the best part. I delighted in the way that Luc let ‘Sergeant Bailey’ push him around in their dance lessons, and I melted over how much he cherished her in his affection, yes, but also in his actions and in how he challenged her to stand up for herself.
Their dance toward ‘happily ever after’ is not all lifts and twirls and fancy footwork, though. They do have to navigate their share of fumbles and drops and miscounts – and I mean that in the symbolic sense as much as I do the literal. Not everyone loves them together… not everyone has their best interests at heart… and not everyone is being honest or full of grace. There were even some characters who needed a good purse whomping (or a jive kick and stick check, to go with the dancing + hockey theme), including a couple people in Bailey’s family. But I really loved how Luc and Bailey worked through these issues, and how they valued each other enough to do so. As with every book in Miller’s hockey series world, one of my favorite parts is the brotherhood of the hockey Bible study group and how they hold each other accountable, point each other to Jesus, and still have lots of fun.
Bottom Line: Pointe, Shoots and Scores by Carolyn Miller gives readers the beautiful romance of a waltz, the fiery (but chaste) passion of a tango, the high intensity drama of a hockey game, and faith-driven characters to cheer on toward a win. Whether that hope for a win is for a mirror ball trophy, a hockey goal, a romance, a personal triumph or spiritual growth, Luc and Bailey’s story makes sure that readers are the real winners. These two characters will charm you into falling in love with them even as they fall in love with each other, and if you don’t have a huge smile on your face by the time you close the book there’s something wrong with your heart!! I always love my time with the characters in Miller’s hockey universe, and I look forward to the next book, too!
Reviewer’s Note: Followers of my reviews may want to be aware that there is one instance of a curse word being used, but I still very much consider this a Christian and clean fiction title.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
If you are a fan of the movie The Italian Job or the TV show Leverage, then you absolutely must re4.5 stars
“I believe in God even when He is silent.“
If you are a fan of the movie The Italian Job or the TV show Leverage, then you absolutely must read The Crown Conspiracy by Connie Mann. This fast-paced treasure hunt across Europe combines intrigue, adventure, suspense, and romance with a decades-old royal mystery, and it all had me glued to the pages.
Sophie Williams may seem like a highly skilled art forger and thief at first glance but the layers to her character are much more complex. I loved the many fascinating aspects of her backstory, her mastery of disguises, her kickbutt defensive instincts, and her reasons for painting copies of valuable art or stealing back paintings that had been stolen. I even thought her stubborn determination served her well in this story… though Mac would undoubtedly disagree with me. Ah yes, Mac. The swoony investigator who dogs her steps, his interest captured from their first encounter and heightened every time their paths cross afterward. The sparks between them (and his growing respect for her) complicate his own assignment and lead to some very delicious kisses that I hope will continue in the next book, too.
The thing that makes The Crown Conspiracy screen-worthy, though, is the secret network of women – the Speranza team – who step in to help Sophie when the stakes get even higher than some missing paintings. This colorful group of Hope-makers made me want to stand up and cheer, their seemingly endless array of contacts and effective teamwork proving invaluable to Sophie whether they are helping her track down paintings, making sure she stays alive (not an easy task) or trying to find her missing friend Lise. I cannot wait to go on more adventures with these fun and resourceful personalities, and it totally made me want to be part of a team like this! Well… ok…. maybe minus the ‘run for your life’ danger and harrowing escapes lol.
Bottom Line: The Crown Conspiracy by Connie Mann is a riveting and multi-layered story that I didn’t want to put down. The author masterfully weaves several high-stakes plot threads into a cohesive flow, putting readers in the middle of the action as she reveals just enough at one time to ensure that your attention stays riveted to the book & your mind stays whirring with possibilities. With engaging characters and their compelling backstories – and some really swoony kisses – this novel perfectly sets up the series as a whole, and I am eagerly waiting for the next book! I thoroughly enjoyed The Crown Conspiracy and easily recommend it.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
“It is easy to trust in God when He works miracles, but will we trust Him even if He does not?”
Going in to Of Love and Treason, I knew there4.5 stars
“It is easy to trust in God when He works miracles, but will we trust Him even if He does not?”
Going in to Of Love and Treason, I knew there wouldn’t be the usual HEA ending – at least not in the sense I’m used to. After all, the reason we celebrate Valentine’s Day is because of a martyr. I almost didn’t read it because of that. Almost. But I’m so glad that something about this story kept calling to me because it’s such a beautifully written novel with vibrant characters and a deeply compelling plot. From these words in the opening paragraph – “He does not look like the hero they imagined, this shortish gap-toothed scribe.” – I was hooked, captivated by the courage these characters showed and the way Ogle gave new life to an often-overlooked historical account.
The four main characters we follow through this novel will grab your attention at their first introduction and keep you immersed in their stories until the very end. An ending which you will undoubtedly need tissues for but also one that is steeped in hope and joy and the truest promise of the ultimate happily-ever-after, leaving your eyes and your heart equally full. I loved Iris and the spiritual journey she experiences along with her father (who is admittedly a very complicated character) and her childhood friend Titus (who is torn between duty and love). The way Ogle has presented Valentine, the layers to his story, and the complex struggles he must wrestle through ensures I will never see Valentine’s Day quite the same way again. Instead, I’ll celebrate it with a richer understanding of love and sacrifice and faith. There are no easy answers or smooth paths when it’s against the law to be a Christian, and deciding to follow Jesus when the stakes are that high is something that American believers can’t fully understand. The phrase ‘counting the cost’ – that we tend to throw around so casually – takes on new meaning when reading a story like this.
Bottom Line: Before I read Of Love and Treason, I knew the story of St. Valentine. Now, thanks to Jamie Ogle’s heartfelt writing and thoughtful imaginations, I feel as though I’ve lived it with him. This novel is an achingly beautiful love story, yes. It’s also an education in early Church persecution, one which re-humanizes a real person who has become almost a myth and places us in the middle of a pivotal moment in his life. With her skill in crafting multi-dimensional characters and her engaging writing voice, Ogle has masterfully balanced entertaining the mind and touching the heart. But even more than all of those things, Of Love and Treason paints a beautiful picture of the transforming power of the Gospel, the promise of Life beyond the grave, and the true meaning of Love. I will be thinking about this story for a long time… and especially every Valentine’s Day.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
In short, The Love Penalty by Carolyn Miller checked all the boxes for me when it comes to contemporary romance!
We’ve met Sylvie a couple of times already in the Original Six Hockey universe, and each time she’s drawn my curiosity. She’s a great friend to Bree and really good with kids, but also she seemed broken, as though she were hiding deep pain behind the edgy wardrobe and tattoos. As we truly dig down into all her layers in this book, I found that she’s clearly softer and more tenderhearted – and more vulnerable – than her exterior conveys. She IS hiding emotional pain as well as a desire for the kind of unconditional love she was never shown or modeled growing up. I loved how multidimensional Miller has made this heroine, and I really enjoyed getting to know Sylvie better on these pages. My heart ached for her to know the truest Love – not the kind you can find in another person but the kind only God offers. Miller writes this aspect of Sylvie’s story so tenderly, using characters who show her the love & grace of Jesus in action.
Ryan is the kind of hero who is easy to fall in love with, so it’s no wonder that Sylvie falls so hard for him so quickly. He’s an ‘All-American’ guy (even though he’s Canadian lol), has a family who loves each other & Jesus, and he’s a godly young man who surrounds himself with other godly hockey players who hold him accountable … even when he wishes they wouldn’t. He isn’t planning to fall in love… and certainly not with someone who challenges his Christian convictions. But that accidental kiss and the passionate kisses that followed make it easy to save important conversations like faith and values for later. Until it becomes clear that they aren’t on the same page and something needs to change. To be honest, I wanted to purse whomp Ryan a couple of times, though the story itself does that better than I could. But he also was one of the few who looked beyond Sylvie’s carefully crafted walls to see her heart, and I loved him for it. The journey that Miller takes Ryan on in this book caused me to reflect on the times I’ve jumped ahead of God instead of seeking His wisdom and direction, and I ended up seeing a lot of myself in Ryan after all… even the parts I wanted to purse whomp him for haha.
Bottom Line: The Love Penalty by Carolyn Miller is more than just a wonderful contemporary romance – though it’s certainly that. It’s also a beautiful story of redemption, of introducing a broken heart to the Heart Healer. I loved Sylvie and Ryan together and as individually layered characters, and I absolutely adored Ryan’s parents. The storyline quickly drew me in and kept me turning the pages, delighting in visits with familiar characters and enjoying the plot revolving around the current protagonists. I appreciated the clear presentation of the gospel and that Ryan wasn’t a ‘perfect’ Christian in contrast to Sylvie’s lostness. The flaws/sins in both characters spoke to me, and I am always a fan when grace takes the spotlight! A sweet love story that points to the true Source of love.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
Do you have a middle schooler who thinks history is boring? Well they may think twice about saying that in front of their teacher after they read ClumDo you have a middle schooler who thinks history is boring? Well they may think twice about saying that in front of their teacher after they read Clumsy Stumblefoot Trips Through Time with Magellan by Chris Salaas. Then again, maybe they won’t think it’s so boring anymore after watching some harrowing history unfold on the pages with Clumsy and his fellow time trippers.
Middle schoolers as well as advanced elementary readers and young teens will enjoy the humor in this book, particularly in the first person narration that perfectly captures the gawky sarcasm of a seventh grader… and especially a seventh grader who has turned tripping over his own feet into a lifestyle. In fact it was the hilarity of the narration/writing voice that made me want to keep reading after I previewed the first chapter on Amazon. The time travel plot and the side characters who go along for the ride creatively add to the ‘just trying to survive my first day at a new school’ tension for poor Clumsy, and I admired the character growth in our main protagonist as well as the two main supporting players. (I mean… when your parents saddle you with a name like Chumley Stumblefoot AND you are inherently klutzy… surviving middle school is set to an advanced level anyway. Throw in time travel and Chumley is a real hero!)
Bottom Line: Clumsy Stumblefoot Trips Through Time with Magellan by Chris Solaas combines wit, history, and fantasy to deliver an adventure that middle school readers will find both entertaining and educational. I snickered out loud more than once and found Clumsy to be an endearingly likable protagonist, imagining my nephews’ reactions if I read this out loud with them – and they are much younger than the middle school demographic. There are a couple of subplots in addition to the time-travel element that add more layers to the mix, and the way the book ends has me hoping there will be a second book too. It’s exceptionally well-researched and my only complaint is that parts of it get a bit bogged down in historical details for me. Would a middle schooler see it that way? Likely not, as they would probably be more caught up in the adventure of it all. A fun way to teach kids about a not-often talked about period of history!
(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read via Kindle Unlimited.)
It’s Christmas at the Green Dory Inn, but of course that doesn’t mean that Landon or Anna or their close friends will get through the holiday without It’s Christmas at the Green Dory Inn, but of course that doesn’t mean that Landon or Anna or their close friends will get through the holiday without some mystery finding them. And, sure enough, the drama starts right away at the town’s Christmas dinner and doesn’t ease up until the very end. Just like the other mysteries that Landon has helped solve in this series, the murder in Deadly Burden hits close to home and the end results may be surprising. My heart ached for the person it affected most, as well as for those whose even more deeply-held secrets come to light as a result of the investigation. But through it all, the character growth that the author orchestrates makes all the pain worth it in the end. Kinda like how God doesn’t waste a single thing that we go through but uses everything to make us more like Jesus.
Speaking of… I know I’ve said it in every review so far but I love the characters who have found a makeshift family at the Green Dory Inn. Anna, Landon, Bobby, Roy, Elva, Nigel, Dylan, Timkin, and Mister all have a special place in my heart that will keep me coming back for however many books the author wants to include in this series. I love their flaws, their strengths, their personalities… and the way they each bring something to the table that nobody else can.
And … could you hear me squealing in KissingBook-fan excitement??? THERE IS ROMANCE IN THIS BOOK!! Y’all know I love mysteries and suspense and I love them even more when there’s a little kissing in the mix too. You’ll have to read this book for yourself to see if any mistletoe is put to good use, but do know that I am quite contented with how things played out – and looking forward to see where the next book takes Landon and her new feelings.
Bottom Line: Deadly Burden by Janet Sketchley decks the halls with murder, forgiveness, secrets, and even a little romance. The engaging prose and smart plotting keeps readers entertained and invested from beginning to end, whether it be just this book or the series overall. In fact, you’ll appreciate the story arc best and avoid potential spoilers when you start with Unknown Enemy and continue in order. But however you read Deadly Burden, you’ll find yourself captivated by the characters and eager for whatever adventure they find themselves in next!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
In Bitter Truth, the third book in Janet Sketchley’s Green Dory Inn Mystery series, the mysteries are even more complex, the faith thread even more prIn Bitter Truth, the third book in Janet Sketchley’s Green Dory Inn Mystery series, the mysteries are even more complex, the faith thread even more profound, and the romantic possibilities even more defined. I’m still recovering from the events at the end of book two, trying to catch my breath from the harrowing danger and stunning reveals, and then this story starts off with another surprise! I wasn’t sure how it would affect the characters – or what it meant for the inn yet again – but I was eager to find out.
Not only do we have the usual players that we’ve grown to know and love, but we also spend more time with Ciara – Landon’s former nemesis – in Bitter Truth and meet Landon’s rescuer Zander. These characters understandably bring Landon some complex emotions to work through, not to mention the fact that the mystery/suspense element is getting deadlier and more shocking twists are in store. There are a few other new characters introduced as well, but whether they will become suspects or victims – or red herrings – is only revealed a little at a time, drawing you cleverly into the plot until you are completely immersed in this world.
Once again, I delighted in reuniting with Landon, Anna, Roy, Bobby, Nigel, and the cats … yes, even Elva. The author continues to develop each one with astute dimensions and realistic strengths and weaknesses. No one in these books is perfect, and even the believers struggle with aspects of their faith. Readers are sure to find a kindred spirit in at least one of the main players in this series, likely more than one, and grace is there to fill in the broken places and rough edges like a comforting hug. Landon’s character growth across the series is especially compelling, and the author treats her backstory with the sensitivity it requires .. while at the same time not shying away from it or leaving her stuck in it. It’s a fine line to walk in fiction, and Sketchley does so quite well.
Bottom Line: Just when you think it’s safe to enjoy a quiet stay at the Green Dory Inn, another mystery rears its head – this one even deadlier and more sinister than the previous ones. In Bitter Truth, Janet Sketchley takes readers on a suspenseful journey full of heart with rubber-meets-the-road faith, complex characters, and a layered plot. It’s part cozy mystery, part suspense, and wholly entertaining. I admire Landon so much as a character, and this story reminds me again of why I do. Some progress in the romance department had me grinning cautiously, and I can’t wait to see if Landon will take any steps – however cautious – in that direction as the series continues.
(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I purchased for my own collection.)
In this second book in the Green Dory Inn Mystery series by Janet Sketchley, we pick up with things not too far after the events of book one. Some timIn this second book in the Green Dory Inn Mystery series by Janet Sketchley, we pick up with things not too far after the events of book one. Some time has passed, though not much, and circumstances once again see Landon at the inn to lend Anna emotional support, and vice versa. Even though the mystery in Unknown Enemy was solved, it appears that someone still wants Anna out of the picture; whether just off the property or more permanently remains to be seen. Several surprising twists – which you’ll appreciate more if you’ve read book one – kept me on my toes, and the author has once again done a wonderful job of storycrafting. She has a way of engaging you in the plot and the characters so that you want to extend your stay at the inn indefinitely … despite all the sinister things happening around you.
After falling in love with so many of the characters in book one, I thoroughly enjoyed reuniting with them – and getting to know them better – in Hidden Secrets. As this is a full length novel, the author has time to explore the complexities of their backstories a bit more as well as their personalities and quirks. Landon’s trauma is revealed further, as well as the healing process she’s been through and the Grace she has found, and while my heart broke for her and other characters in this story I found myself wanting to stand up and applaud her tenacity to not only survive but also to continue overcoming her fears. And for the record, I maintain my vote for Bobby when/if Landon is ready for a romantic relationship. Dylan is still a great guy, too, but I see him more as a brotherly figure for Landon, even if he feels otherwise.
Bottom Line: Hidden Secrets by Janet Sketchley is a riveting mystery with dashes of suspense perfectly placed to keep you turning the pages, on the edge of your seat for what might happen next. Characters with authentic imperfections and relatable struggles keep you invested in the whole series, not just this particular book, but the tension-filled plot will certainly have you engrossed here in this story for the duration. The author’s writing style is engaging and descriptive, and I’m curious as to how the events in this story will affect the next one.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
Unknown Enemy is a quick-read novella that basically gives readers an introduction to the Green Dory Inn, its recurring characters, and the setting ofUnknown Enemy is a quick-read novella that basically gives readers an introduction to the Green Dory Inn, its recurring characters, and the setting of Lunenburg (a real town in Nova Scotia and a Unesco World Heritage Site). That’s not to say, however, that there isn’t a mystery to solve – there is, indeed, and the stakes are very personal.
Landon Smith has traumatic reasons for not wanting to return to Lunenburg and, despite her love for her dear friend/mentor/substitute mother Anna, she has stayed away. But when a concerned neighbor contacts her about what’s been going on at Anna’s B&B, Landon musters up her courage and agrees to come for the weekend. Is Anna having a mental breakdown as a result of grief over the recent loss of her beloved husband? After all, she’s the only one who’s seen the supposed prowler. Or is there really someone out there with sinister intentions who wants Anna off the property – or worse? The mystery is a ‘light’ one, as far as crimes go but it’s definitely not light on tension. The author does a great job of gradually ramping up the tension until the readers are on pins and needles, outraged on Anna’s behalf and just as determined as Landon to find the culprit(s).
I loved meeting Anna and Landon as well as the motley crew of neighbors that factor into the story and, it turns out, the rest of the series. Roy is a hoot, and I immediately set my sights on his grandson Bobby as romance potential for Landon. Even without that possibility, though, I adore Bobby as a character and as a sidekick/friend for Landon. He’s bookish (a writer) and a little geeky but he’s got a heart of gold and loves Jesus. Law enforcement officer Dylan – a kind and protective friend – also had my romantic radar up, but there’s just something about Bobby that has me in his corner instead. Nigel endeared himself to me immediately, and I even somehow found a soft spot for Elva in spite of her attitude. There are others who come in and out of the story – including a pet cat and a feral one – but the above are my faves.
Bottom Line: Layered characters, a beautiful setting, and complex secrets await you when you check into the Green Dory Inn with this first mystery, Unknown Enemy. Janet Sketchley packs a lot of story into a novella length, enough that you become deeply invested in the outcome and the characters, while still being a relatively quick read. There is enough of a hint (emphasis on hint) of romance potential to keep my KissingBooks heart content with what may come but it stays true to Landon’s past trauma, which I appreciate. And while the main plot is resolved to my satisfaction, there are still several loose ends that I’m eager to follow as the series continues.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
“All of Poland bled. Its people, its history, its treasures.”
World War 2 is one of my favorite historical eras to read about in fiction. Yes4.5 stars
“All of Poland bled. Its people, its history, its treasures.”
World War 2 is one of my favorite historical eras to read about in fiction. Yes, there was unimaginable evil present during this time period. But there were also ordinary people who became extraordinary heroes by courageously doing the right thing at great potential cost. Sometimes that meant joining a band of resistance fighters… or spying on the enemy under the cover of business. Sometimes it meant hiding the people being hunted or breaking them out of a prison transport. But sometimes doing the right thing just meant quietly forgoing your own rations so a family with multiple children has more to eat. Or providing temporary lodging for those on the way to freedom or on a rescue mission. Or staying with those you love – your found family – when no one would blame you for leaving to go someplace safer. THAT is why I love reading about World War 2, for these exact types of stories.
Until Our Time Comes by Nicole M. Miller highlights all of the above heroic acts, including an aspect of the war that we don’t hear as much about – that of the the people who risked life, love, and freedom to keep safe the culture, the history, and even the animals at risk of being lost forever, like the prized Janów horses of Poland. Our heroine Adia – an American with an emotional history tied to Janów – dearly loves the horses in her care and has a desperate passion to see them saved from being stolen or slaughtered by the enemy armies invading Poland. After all, they’ve just begun to recover from the damage inflicted on their breeding program during the Great War. I was fascinated by the story of these horses and the resiliency of their beautiful farm and I confess to doing some research of my own mid-read to see if Janów was a real place (it was) and whether it survived the war (no spoilers here).
I loved Adia’s quiet but fierce heroism, all the little ways she stood for freedom and took care of the people and horses she considered family, and how her role and risk evolved over the course of the story. A large part of that change is due to her friendship with a precocious, sticky-fingered Polish orphan named Ewan and falling in love with a charming British spy named Bret. This unlikely trio quickly wormed its way into my heart and set up camp for the long term, making me smile and cry (and even swoon) in equal measure. Each of them are heroes in their own right – in big and small ways – and the three of them together are the kind of team I love to root for! Add in a regal horse or two, some grassroots resistance fighters, and the gorgeous heart of the Polish people… needless to say, I was completely absorbed by this touching story. (The way the title ties in is so poignant, too!)
Bottom Line: Until Our Time Comes by Nicole M. Miller compellingly profiles a little-known piece of World War 2 history and a daring fight over several years to protect hundreds of priceless purebred Arabian horses. The exploration of the heavy toll this took on our protagonists, the horses, and the supporting characters who help them makes this not only a riveting story but a very moving one as well. Moments of well-timed humor as well as a sweet romance allow readers a respite from the high levels of tension and work to advance the story at the same time. Miller’s writing voice is warm and smart and flowed easily from one sentence to the next, drawing me deeper into the plot with every word, and her vibrant characters became my friends. If you love books by authors like Amanda Barratt, Kate Breslin, Sarah Sundin, and Cathy Gohlke, then you’ll want to read Until Our Time Comes too!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
When I was a little girl, my parents had a series of books from Moody Publishing called The Muffin Family Picture Bible that paired Bible st4.5 stars
When I was a little girl, my parents had a series of books from Moody Publishing called The Muffin Family Picture Bible that paired Bible stories with application illustration tales involving the Muffin family (including children Maxi and Minnie). I loved when my parents would read these to my brother and me, and I associate a warm, cozy feeling – the kind that comes with a well-told story – with those reading times. I get that same feeling whenever I settle into a Biblical fiction novel by Connilyn Cossette, and I was completely swept away by Shield of the Mighty.
We became acquainted with Zevi as part of the band of cousins in book one of this series, Voice of the Ancient. But readers of Between the Wild Branches will also recognize his adoptive parents, Lukio and Shoshanna. It’s not necessary to have read that book first, as I haven’t and had no troubles following along, but I’m sure it would add extra depth to the already rich layers to this story if you have. Zevi has become a skilled and trusted soldier in King Saul’s army (with the swoon factor to go along with it!). As such, he is given an important, if formidable, assignment – to recruit soldiers, tradesmen, and artisans from the distrusting-of-Saul Yehudites in the face of looming war with the Philistines. The task takes him to the place where his story began… and all the grief and pain entangled with his childhood memories there. Memories which Cossette weaves into the narrative with insight and compassion, drawing empathy from readers as well as giving his character needed depth and emotion to balance his warrior spirit and strength.
Something else that balances Zevi’s soldier side is Yochana … or more specifically, how besotted he is with her from the moment her unique scent draws him into her perfumery. Cue the fans and fainting couches, my dear readers, because goodness he’s swoony around her. Even if he ensures her continued presence in a rather unorthodox way which, I must admit, had me thinking, “I don’t think this is going to end well for him” haha! Oh me of little faith, though, because Cossette beautifully sketches their instant-attraction-but-slow-burn love story throughout these pages. Ahhh be still my heart, because it’s still all aflutter over their chemistry, yes, but also the way they just ‘belong’ to each other so well.
Bottom Line: Shield of the Mighty by Connilyn Cossette is so many wonderful things – a deeply beautiful romance between two wounded souls, a meticulously-researched historical novel that brings the Old Testament to life, and a riveting military fiction full of stunning twists and daring action, just to name a few. But more than any of those, it is an exquisite illustration of what it looks like to trust God with your life, to listen to His Voice, and to take shelter in His mighty shield of refuge. I adored Zevi and Yochana together, and I loved the Biblical history that Cossette painted as a vivid backdrop to their story. The ongoing series arc of the youngest cousin continues, and I am very curious how that plot line will ultimately play out. This is another winner from a gifted author, and a must-read you don’t want to miss!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
I’ve been wanting to read Rose Fresquez’s Caregivers series for a while now and finally decided I needed to be intentional about it. I chose the most I’ve been wanting to read Rose Fresquez’s Caregivers series for a while now and finally decided I needed to be intentional about it. I chose the most recent one to read which also happens to be the final one. Nothing like starting a series at the end haha! Not to worry though, this reads very well as a standalone. There are characters from the other books who play a role in this story, but I never felt lost – just knew that I want to go back and read their stories too!
Hope is my kind of heroine. She has a quiet, inner strength that has helped her survive the harsh treatment she’s received in life, and she has a kind spirit despite not having much kindness extended to her. It’s also clear that God has been speaking into her life for many years (unbeknownst to her), preparing her heart to be receptive when she sees Jesus’s love and the gospel being lived out in Uganda by Brady & Ruth (from The Entrepeneur’s Nurse) and the others at the clinic/mission. Gavin is a good guy and, while he’s not perfect, he’s so different from any of the men in Hope’s life that his kindness and respect stand out to her. Enough that, instead of running away from him too, she runs with him to work in Brady & Ruth’s charity clinic/mission. Their road to happily ever after isn’t all smooth, though. They both have a lot of inner work to do… and a trio of very difficult women to navigate around.
I really enjoyed the glimpse of African culture that we’re given in The Realtor’s Attendant. Fresquez immerses us into the rural Ugandan setting with the food, the traditions, the language, and the people. I especially found the bride wealth payment in both Uganda and Kenya to be intriguing. Not only for the cultural insight but also for the spiritual significance. A bride price or dowry is something very foreign to most Americans, and in fiction we mostly only read about it in historical / Regency novels. So, to see it in a contemporary setting, stood out and because it stood out it made me stop and think even more about the fact that Jesus paid the price for us – His bride – with His life.
Bottom Line: The Realtor’s Attendant by Rose Fresquez is a touching romance that grapples graceFULLy with real life issues and points readers to the love of Jesus. Hope and Gavin – two broken souls in need of healing – have many hurdles to overcome if they’re going to make a romantic relationship between them work, not the least of which is that one is Kenyan and one is American. But readers will fall easily for both characters and their growth journeys in this story, and they will be rooting for Hope & Gavin’s happily-ever-after from the first moment we see them both on the page. A sweet and fun epilogue will delight both fans of the series and those like me who are just discovering it, and while this is the final book I’m hoping that Gavin’s brother will eventually get his own story too!
(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read via Kindle Unlimited.)
Great is His Faithfulness is an exploration ‘behind the scenes’ as it were of the Biblical book of Ruth, following the perspectives of first Naomi andGreat is His Faithfulness is an exploration ‘behind the scenes’ as it were of the Biblical book of Ruth, following the perspectives of first Naomi and then Ruth. The author stays within the bounds of the Biblical text but offers us a thoughtful imagining of what these women might have been feeling and experiencing, each in a strange land. In fact, I really liked the fact that the first part of the story focuses on Naomi’s possible emotions and experiences as a foreigner in Moab… and then the second part focuses on the same for Ruth as a foreigner in Judah. I’m not sure why I’ve never considered that aspect from Naomi’s perspective, that she was also a foreigner in a strange land who would have empathized with what Ruth was feeling as well. Possibly because the main focus of the Biblical account is on Ruth’s experiences. I enjoyed delving into Naomi’s heart and feeling like I possibly understood her better – particularly her bitterness – in Borden’s interpretation.
This is a relatively quick read with an engaging writing style, and the author does a good job of ‘humanizing’ Biblical people who I think we tend to unrealistically put on a pedestal. But in actuality, they were just like us – real people who felt the same regrets and joys and uncertainties we feel, who grieved as we grieve over the loss of loved ones, who built friendships and fell in love. When I put down Great is His Faithfulness and pick up the Biblical book of Ruth, the names in the familiar verses now seem more alive, more relatable, more real. Because of course they were real, but sometimes we treat them like superheroes and forget how much we share in common.
Bottom Line: Great is His Faithfulness by C. Borden is a fictionalized deep dive into the story of Naomi and Ruth, a grieving mother and daughter-in-law who are each other’s last hope. The author thoughtfully explores plausible scenarios to fill in the blanks on what the Biblical account does not tell us, all while staying grounded in the Scriptures and within its boundaries. And while I knew how this tale would turn out before I started reading it, the epilogue that Borden includes made my heart swell like it always does at God’s faithfulness toward these two women. A compelling take on a story I’ve loved since childhood, and one that is definitely worth reading!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
“Who would have known that in just one generation, with one simple decision, everything could change?”
There are some books that make you happier for r“Who would have known that in just one generation, with one simple decision, everything could change?”
There are some books that make you happier for reading them, lifting your heart while you’re in those pages and maybe lingering with you because of a story or characters well-told. And then there are some books that do all of the above but also change something in you, for the better, words that will shape you from this point forward. An American Immigrant is one such book.
This is a difficult review to write because I have so many feelings fighting for dominance and it’s hard to sort out what I want to say and what I want to let you discover for yourself. But, in short, this is a beautifully-written story of choices that had ripple effects, of missteps that weren’t wasted, and of family roots. Vann’s writing voice draws you in from the very beginning, easily getting you invested in Melanie’s career and her trip to Colombia – and then shifting the spotlight to one that’s shared with her mother’s past experiences as a young immigrant to America many years before. And tucked away in this poignant look at a mother and daughter’s respective journeys is a most profound message – What stories have we been missing because we don’t take the time to ask, to research, to dig, to listen? Stories about where we come from, about where the person next to us comes from… stories with the power to change the trajectory of our lives (as the author mentions in her note at the end of the book). I needed that reminder to look for and listen to the stories of the people in my path. How about you?
Alba (aka Melanie’s Abuela / grandmother) deserves her own full review (lol) but I’ll force myself to stop at this: I loved her so very much. She made me laugh, she made me teary, and she quite simply delighted me. Her vibrant spirit, her stubborn will, her resilience, and even the twinkle in her eye reminded me not only of my maternal grandmother (as American as they come) but also of the ‘bonus’ grandmothers God blessed me with as I taught beginner English to immigrants and refugees from all over the world for over ten years in Kentucky. Including precious Olga from Peru who became my abuela in every way but genetics (in fact, my social media handle is a nod to my querida Olga and what she always called me, with an Alba-like twinkle in her eye and the sweetest smile on her face ♥).
Bottom Line: An American Immigrant by Johanna Rojas Vann is fresh and compelling, with layered characters and a vitality that leaps off the pages in bursts of vivid color, lively music and tantalizing aromas. Melanie’s journey to see Colombia through her family’s eyes, to learn her mother’s immigrant story, to find her own purpose, and to somehow share those perspectives with the world touched me deeply, in large part because of my own work with immigrants and refugees. It really resonated with my heart. But even if you don’t have experience or roots in other cultures, there is much to be gleaned from this engaging novel. It’s a story of finding yourself, of finding your roots, and of finding where the two connect. A beautiful novel that you can enjoy just as an entertaining story or let it go deeper and maybe change your own story.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
One of the things I enjoy most about historical fiction is that I get to learn about things I never studied in school – all while being ente4.5 stars
One of the things I enjoy most about historical fiction is that I get to learn about things I never studied in school – all while being entertained with a good story. In The Foxhole Victory Tour, Amy Lynn Green takes us beyond the Hollywood version of the USO tours to the ordinary men & women who sacrificed comfort and safety to bring joy to active duty servicepeople through music, wonder, and laughter. These unsung heroes didn’t get star treatment or accommodations and sometimes got a bit closer to the front lines than I realized. Reading this richly-engaging novel made me want to read even more about the ‘civilian’ (aka not the celebrity) USO troupes, about the real life figures who inspired Green’s story.
I loved the dual perspective between Maggie and Catherine, two musicians from very different walks of life and personalities. One, the naturally witty and feisty daughter of a Salvation Army minister, unafraid to speak her mind or take risks. The other, a sheltered debutante born to wealth and privilege, longing to be loved for herself and freed from her parents warring expectations. Even the narrative felt different depending on whose POV we were reading, evidence of Green’s brilliant writing choices and talent. I adored watching both of these young woman come into their own on this journey, each of them finding something within themselves they didn’t previously realize they possessed.
Along with Maggie’s trumpet-playing-comedy bit and Catherine’s violin act, they are joined by a blues singer, a magician, a tap dancer, and their manager. Each with their own insecurities, flaws, and strengths that they bring along. And while the members of the fictional USO troupe spotlighted in The Foxhole Victory Tour all joined up for individually different reasons at first glance, when we dig deeper into the characters’ layers we end up seeing a lot of similarities after all. Purpose. Autonomy. Belonging. I loved how Green wove their stories together into a family-like unit by the time all is said and done. Not a perfect family, to be sure – what family is? – but one that had been through proverbial (and some literal) fire together and survived all the stronger for it. In addition to learning about what they did for the troops and what they experienced in the process, this element of the story really spoke to me.
Bottom Line: The Foxhole Victory Tour by Amy Lynn Green is a compelling and smartly-written novel that brings to life a little known aspect of WW2 history and highlights the humanity of war – the sorrows, the fears, the injustices, yes, but also the moments where joy and faith and love win out over the rest. I was fascinated by the history and captivated by the characters, and I wasn’t ready for it to be finished when I turned the last page. I would gladly spend more time with these characters, should the author be so inclined to revisit them in a future story! A dash of romance and notes of faith both fit well with the natural flow of the story and add further dimensions for readers to embrace in the main characters. Sign up for this USO tour post haste – you won’t be sorry!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
“My dear Miss Stanton, I’d much rather be absurd with you than normal with anyone else.”
What a refreshingly unique novel!
I absolutely adored Clara’s G“My dear Miss Stanton, I’d much rather be absurd with you than normal with anyone else.”
What a refreshingly unique novel!
I absolutely adored Clara’s Grandfather, the endearing clockmaker with an affinity for constructing intricate machines and automatons, including a flying conveyance in the likeness of an owl. These play a significant role in the story, and I loved every minute of this subplot. While my own grandfather was not a clockmaker, he did have an affection for inventing gadgets and gizmos and I felt an instant connection to Clara’s Grand. I also loved his loving, kind heart and his ready friendship with Theodore/Arthur – another character I immediately liked. He’s a different sort of romantic hero at first glance… and yet ultimately he’s perhaps one of the most heroic I’ve met on the page in a while. And though Clara would certainly disagree with me for a good chunk of the book, he’s also exactly the sort of hero – and friend – that she needs.
“What-ifs are not acquainted with what-is, and they spread horrid falsehoods about what will-be, so why bother entertaining them?”
Clara had to grow on me, to be honest, though it’s probably because we’re more alike than I’d care to admit. Both of us have a tendency to shoulder anxious burdens we were never intended to carry, and both of us are reluctant to believe anyone can bear those burdens better than we can. Her early treatment of Theodore is pretty harsh, but I understand the fear driving it and I really enjoyed watching her begin to warm up to him on their shared journey. The author also does a wonderful job of showing in Clara’s words, actions, and concerns how much she loves her quirky family, including her endearingly-and-exasperatingly eccentric mother who would make my hair fall out overnight from stress, I suspect. Don’t get me wrong – I loved Mrs. Stanton but if I’d had to go around the world with her and an ever-increasing menagerie of misfit creatures I might very well end up in those asylums Clara is trying to keep her family out of. Haha!
Bottom Line: A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure by Angela Bell is such a delightfully unexpected historical romance! With its eccentric characters (of the 2 and 4 legged variety), steampunk vibes, Victorian time period, European scavenger hunt, sweet romance, dash of danger, meaningful themes, and nods to The Nutcracker, Around the World in 80 Days, and even Heidi, it entertains as well as inspires. The reminder that we are in God’s hands, that He wants to bear our burdens, that He wants us to enjoy life and all that He has created – including love – touched my heart more than once over the course of the novel. I laughed, I swooned, I nearly pulled out my hair… and I enjoyed it all! A great choice for fans of Jen Turano, Jules Verne, and Morgan L. Busse!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
“But trouble is what we have, mon cher, and it is going to get worse before it gets better.”
In my review for The Rose and the Thistle last y4.5 stars
“But trouble is what we have, mon cher, and it is going to get worse before it gets better.”
In my review for The Rose and the Thistle last year I said, “Nobody captures the setting, the lilt, the romance and heartbreak of history quite like Laura Frantz does” and she has proven me right once again with The Seamstress of Acadie. This novel set both in Nova Scotia and the Virginia colony – places that come alive under Frantz’s direction – is a slow burn story, richly told, with gorgeous gems of wordsmithing like:
“Snowflakes swirled, adorning her garments like exquisite embroidery and turning the near woods into a glittering blur.”
Sylvie Galant is the kind of resilient heroine that makes historical fiction settle around you like both a rallying cry and a warm embrace, one whose inner strength you hope to absorb as you follow her across the pages. I loved her character. Tenderhearted with a love for family and her beloved orchards, Sylvie is also a talented seamstress capable of creating beauty with a needle and thread. I enjoyed watching that God-given talent open doors for her even amid the prejudice in Virginia toward the Acadians.
To my shame, I had never heard of the atrocities committed against the Acadians of Nova Scotia, hard-working & peace-loving people who just wanted to live in the land they so loved and pass down a legacy of both for future generations. As I read about how they were treated by the British and Virginians alike I was again heartbroken at how evil humans can be toward one another. Oh that we would understand how we are all created in the image of God, that our differences make life more colorful and vibrant, and that we can learn far more from each other than we have to fear. I’ve digressed from my original point but I would be remiss to ignore the history that Frantz paints so poignantly for us – or the lessons we can yet learn from Sylvie’s story and those who stood up for the displaced then… and even now.
Here is where I also admit that I was getting a bit twitchy when we didn’t meet the hero until chapter 16 (because I’m shallow & here for the romance lol). But oh mercy Will is worth the wait! He is both rugged and kind, strong and principled, a man of faith, a man capable of great love, and quite swoonworthy once smitten. I adored him from the moment he first encounters Sylvie and – like her – became increasingly besotted with him as the story progressed. His loyal canine companion Bonami was another highlight for me, as was Will’s championing the people of Acadie even to his own detriment.
Bottom Line: The Seamstress of Acadie is another beautifully rendered story by Laura Frantz, one that is in turns heartbreaking and heart-lifting but always heartfelt. The faith thread is so tender, pointing us to God’s presence even in the darkest of times while also not ignoring the pain of those times, and a specific scene involving the 23rd Psalm touched me deeply. Readers will fall in love with Sylvie, Will, and Bonami as well as the host of other vividly-drawn characters I haven’t even touched on yet – not the least of which is Sylvie’s brother Bleu whom I hope we see more of in a future book by this author. These beloved new fictional friends will take you through a range of intense emotions, and Frantz’s exquisite storytelling will keep you holding your breath as you eagerly turn the pages one after another to learn of their fates. Grab some chocolate and/or cider and immerse yourself in this gorgeous story post haste!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
Like anyone who grew up in the 80s, I remember the news footage of the day the Berlin Wall came down. I knew it was monumental, even in my 14.5 stars
Like anyone who grew up in the 80s, I remember the news footage of the day the Berlin Wall came down. I knew it was monumental, even in my 12 year old mind, but until reading The Berlin Letters, I didn’t really have a human connection to it. In her latest Cold War novel, author Katherine Reay gives heart and breath and soul to the people living on both sides of the Wall and those fighting for freedom (be they within or without).
I loved Luisa, the little 3-year-old we meet at a life-altering moment … and then the 31-year-old we become reacquainted with as everything changes for her once more. Bookending those two meetings is the Berlin Wall, from its very beginning to its final days, and the author made the history & politics come alive with a dual narrative that gave me a new perspective on those tough years in between. And while my life experiences don’t mirror Luisa’s in any sense, I still felt as though I could easily place myself in her shoes because of how relatable Reay made her personality and insecurities. I came to love her father’s character as well, through his narrative sections as well as through the letters that Luisa uncovers after her grandfather’s death. There are some stunning twists to his story, and I was glued to the last half of the book, barely remembering to breathe!
Bottom Line: Code breaking, hidden letters, mysterious pasts, the CIA, newspaper reporters, covert missions, snitches, secrets upon secrets… And family. And friends. And a subtle reminder that God never wastes a single thing in our lives. I loved The Berlin Letters from cover to cover and could not put it down! The characters are so well-layered, the history so compelling, and the writing voice so engaging that I’m confident you will quickly become immersed in it as well. The espionage elements fascinated me (I’ve secretly wanted to work for the CIA since my very first episode of Scarecrow & Mrs King haha), and I learned things that I wasn’t taught in school about the Berlin Wall. All while being thoroughly entertained and drawn to a story so far from my own and yet the emotions remained completely relatable at the same time. I’ve loved everything Katherine Reay writes but I have especially loved her Cold War novels and I hope there are more to come!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
Unknown suspect. In the library. With the bookcase.
The Clue vibes are delightfully strong in Collecting Can Be Murder, a “locked house” mystery with aUnknown suspect. In the library. With the bookcase.
The Clue vibes are delightfully strong in Collecting Can Be Murder, a “locked house” mystery with a nostalgic Agatha Christie influence as well. The owner of a French villa is murdered during a party to celebrate his large collection of medieval prayer books, and a bad storm means no one could have gotten in or out other than the people already there. The guest list is full of quirky (and wealthy) characters with loud presences who look out for their own interests above all else… ergo, a whole host of suspects, not to mention the deceased’s rather odious – and self-centered – family members. Sure enough, there was a culprit among the people I didn’t trust… however, since I didn’t trust anybody that’s not saying a whole lot about my sleuthing skills haha!
Carmen De Luca is an intriguing heroine, having previously gone into retirement from her work with the Rosewood Agency after her husband’s death while undercover for the same organization. But now she’s back on a freelance basis with her old partner, (secretly) helping them once again track down stolen art and facilitate its recovery. I liked Carmen’s personality and the stealthy nature of her work, and the added mystery surrounding her husband’s missing body has my mind whirring with possibilities. Carmen’s partner, “the Baroness”, is an intriguing character in her own right, a wealthy patron of the arts who uses her connections to help the Rosewood Agency but must carefully guard her cover. One thing that makes their partnership so unique is that they aren’t the best of friends and some of the undertones between them make me think the Baroness is hiding something… so I’ve got my eye on her!
Bottom Line: Collecting Can Be Murder by Jennifer S. Alderson kicks off a brand new series with fascinating treasures, a house full of suspects, and a likable protagonist with an intriguing job. The mystery is full of layers and feels like ‘Clue meets And Then There Were None‘ in all the best ways. Alderson’s writing voice is always engaging and easy to read, and I’m already looking forward to where she takes Carmen’s character from here.
(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read via Kindle Unlimited.)
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