This is the first book I've read by Ms. Davis and it definitely won't be the last. I really enjoyed her voice as first-person pre-teen Witness Everhea...moreThis is the first book I've read by Ms. Davis and it definitely won't be the last. I really enjoyed her voice as first-person pre-teen Witness Everheart who for various reasons from growing up poor and without a father, steals whatever she can get her hands on to emulate her father. With a bit of fantasy rolled in, and almost Pilgrim's Progress-esque, Witness discovers a gateway to Heaven but finds stealing from there has drastic consequences. The writing is very good; the voice of Witness had me laughing at times and shaking my head at others. Very believable sound and I was immediately drawn into the story. Quick pacing and a great message makes this a wonderful read for pre-teens to adults.(less)
I loved this book. I laughed so hard; it was a really enjoyable read. Tempest Day is a love expert who's never been in love. She is approached by prod...moreI loved this book. I laughed so hard; it was a really enjoyable read. Tempest Day is a love expert who's never been in love. She is approached by producer Lance Moretti--time out; let me just say that like everyone else said, this guy is HOT. They don't make them like this in real life, do they? I sure haven't met one--where was I, Italian hottie Lance signs her to her very own reality show so she can fall in love. I really connected to the heroine because love is elusive and not everyone finds someone as sweet, and handsome, and irritating as the hero. I spent most the day yesterday reading this book--such a page turner. I couldn't wait for the romance to develop and the hero and heroine sparked every time they met. Loved that his was a Christian interracial romance, something that's fairly taboo in Christian publishing. Great pacing, and have I said how funny it was? The dates Tempest had to go on and with the men chosen for her on the show--it was just so funny. You will definitely enjoy this story.(less)
This was a fantastic book. The story centers around a young woman who is on assignment in the Everglades for her uncle, a city official. There she mee...moreThis was a fantastic book. The story centers around a young woman who is on assignment in the Everglades for her uncle, a city official. There she meets Skye, a native to the land who takes her on a whirlwind tour through alligator-invested waters and islands with drug runners. The setting was marvelously described. Having never been to the Everglades, I really enjoyed the scenes this author created; it was like I could actually see the different flora described. And the chemistry between the hero and heroine--smoking! From their very first scene the attraction was electric. Very well done. The Indian culture was also very interesting and gave the plot a nice little twist. Five stars for the story, descriptions, passion, everything! You'll enjoy this read. (less)
Ms. Quigley has written a fine first-person YA novel. Her prose is fantastic; the teenage voices completely believable, and the emotions compelling. W...moreMs. Quigley has written a fine first-person YA novel. Her prose is fantastic; the teenage voices completely believable, and the emotions compelling. We meet Missy Keiser, a young woman with a dysfunctional family, who has returned to her hometown and the peers at school who used to taunt her when she was young. She's grown up, but her low self esteem hinders her ability to see neither her own value or physical beauty without the help of the young men in her life. Her hottie neighbor, or her ultimate school crush?
I have to say, being in the mind of Missy was a bit exhausting. She seemed a hopeless case from the very beginning and even I wanted her to stick with the plan and hurry up and finish high school so she could get out of dodge and get happy. This is the mark of great writing. The pacing of the story worked well with the author weaving in different characters and emotions to take you from a girl with the weight of the world on her shoulders to a young woman who matures emotionally. The scenes were very visual, the plot slightly predictable but enjoyable, and the faith element not overbearing. A thought-provoking book I believe any teen or adult would enjoy.
I was provided an ARC in exchange for my honest review.(less)
Wow. Where to start! This was an excellent debut by Kelly Martin. I really enjoyed the premise of a couple of kids (one goody two-shoes church girl an...moreWow. Where to start! This was an excellent debut by Kelly Martin. I really enjoyed the premise of a couple of kids (one goody two-shoes church girl and a mysterious-so-he-must-be-bad boy) on a day hiking trip in the woods getting lost and spending long, cold days in the elements.
Asher is everything a hero is supposed to be: a cocky, arrogant jerk who is fiercely loyal to those weaker than he, and is surprising tender and attentive with the right girl (*wink*). He's had a tough childhood and although he does believe in God, he doesn't expect much from Him. Rachel--the heroine--has deep, deep faith (and for someone who is 16, I'm envious--I have to tell myself this is a story :-)) and through her consumate belief, she touches a highly skeptical Asher who with every difficulty of their journey (Rachel's bum foot, diminishing food supply, limited resources) challenges her faith and at the same time becomes a world-class idiot.
But we love those cute idiots, dont' we? ;-)
Ms. Martin writes a compelling story of faith, hope, forgiveness, and redepmtion. I was sucked in on the very first page. I read most of this book while lying in my warm bed and I'm glad I did because I felt cold just reading this story. Her scene descriptions are life-like. The pacing was well done and it keeps the reader turning the page--or clicking the 'forward' button on your ereader. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to both juveniles and adults. (less)
I highly enjoyed this book. It starts out as just another day in the heroine's life; she needs a contractor to renovate her basement and a sexy Freddi...moreI highly enjoyed this book. It starts out as just another day in the heroine's life; she needs a contractor to renovate her basement and a sexy Freddie shows up on her doorstep. I've always wondered if that actually happens in real life, hehe. Julia's last relationship has left a sour taste in her mouth about love and Freddie knows his blue collar status isn't enough for a career woman, but that doesn't stop the sparks from flying between the two love-starved protagonists. Great pacing, good dialogue and the first kiss... Oh, my goodness. That is one of the BEST first kisses I've ever read. The sexual tension leading up to the kiss makes for an explosive encounter in the kitchen. Ah, so good. I read that part over and over. The rest of the story is fantastic too, lol. You'll cheer for Freddie as he chips at Julia's armor piece by piece. A good, clean (yet deliciously descriptive--real writing talent) read. Very well done, Ms. Diamond, and I look forward to reading more of your stories.(less)
'Tears to Dancing' is a story of a young woman(Bethany) who survives a car accident that kills both her parents and leaves her with a broken leg. This...more'Tears to Dancing' is a story of a young woman(Bethany) who survives a car accident that kills both her parents and leaves her with a broken leg. This ballerina is thrust into a life without parents and without the ability to live her dream of dancing. Through interactions with her aunt and others from a church group, Bethany learns there is a time for tears and a time for dancing.
Honestly, unless I missed the Bethany's age being mentioned in the beginning, I couldn't for the life of me figure out how old she was. At times her interior monologue sounded much older than her fifteen years--mentioned at the end. But her anger and frustration were very believable and I enjoyed riding Bethany's emotional waves as it came to two very understandable conclusions (I won't give it away) for her to choose from. The pacing of the story was good and the dialogue flowed smoothly. I'd recommend this read to both young adults and adults.
Great debut by Ms. Thomas. I hope she writes a happier book next time--just saying, lol. In fact, I'd love to see Bethany and Todd...you know. (less)
This is the first book I've read of Ms. Van Dyken (I know, all out of order) and I have to say that I don't think another book has ever made me laugh,...moreThis is the first book I've read of Ms. Van Dyken (I know, all out of order) and I have to say that I don't think another book has ever made me laugh, scream, blush, giggle, and squeal in delight as much as this one did. I ate this story up! Could not put it down. The dialogue is absolutely outstanding. I could totally see the facial expressions of the characters. The pacing of both the story and the dialogue was rapid and you'll not want to put it down, trust me. I wanted to strangle Phillip at times--he needs a wife to secure his fortune and low and behold the one woman who wants him--for no other reason than a life-long love--is the one he won't choose. Phillip's staunch refusal of Abby is frustrating, but his equally strong desire of her is delicious. You will root for Abby to wear this man down! I enjoyed how this author's description of the wedding night was both tasteful and descriptive--extremely well done without the actual 'act' occurring on stage.
I whole-heartedly recommend this book. I can't begin to tell you how enjoyable this book was to read, despite my earlier comments, but this author has a fan for life.(less)
I received a copy of Completely Whole for the purpose of reviewing so this is my honest opinion.
Completely Whole is a book that challenges women to ex...moreI received a copy of Completely Whole for the purpose of reviewing so this is my honest opinion.
Completely Whole is a book that challenges women to examine different areas of their life and to trust God to make them a 'whole' person. She touches on areas such as personal experiences, faith, forgiveness, and God's love in separate chapters and ends each with a prayer designed to help the reader focus on what was discussed in the chapter and the main points the reader should have taken away. The language is encouraging and the teaching designed to be uplifting. Every now and then, the author will go off on a tangent (ie: Considering Ruth washed herself before going to Boaz--symbolizing a cleanse--but the author continues with getting your nails done, etc.--funny, but it trivialized the seriousness of the passage) or will highlight one side of the issue but not the other (ie: in Chapter two she discusses fornication as a battle for single people--when it is also a battle for married people as well--and only touches on waiting for the right person when that point isn't the chapter's main focus).
Overall, I believe this book is a great tool to change and/or encourage the mindset Christians should have about how God sees us, how we are to respond in situations, and the peace we can acheive when we depend on God alone to make us a whole person. It is an uplifting, quick read and the prayers are sincere. I recommend this book.(less)
Wildflowers from Winter is a story about a young woman, Bethany Quinn, who by life's circumstances, is forced to return to the home she left ten years...moreWildflowers from Winter is a story about a young woman, Bethany Quinn, who by life's circumstances, is forced to return to the home she left ten years ago--a home she had hoped to forget based on the unhappy life she had there. The family and personal tragedies she experienced at a young ago have caused her to be very bitter, angry, and in my opinion, just plain rude. It was interesting watching her journey--her interaction with family members, a best friend she left behind, and a farmhand--Evan--who is standing in the way of her leaving town. The novel draws you in immediately and seeing the world through Bethany's eyes is quite depressing. I didn't warm up to her character until the last third of the novel when her attitude began to change from forced unselfishness into actual joyful unselfishness. I liked that the hero didn't try to beg for her favor (be a doormat) or try to convince her to behave otherwise, so the romance between them was very believable. The writing is superb and the book deserves five stars for that alone. A neat aspect was the switch between first and third person throughout the novel. I've never read a story using that technique, and it was wonderfully done. The first person chapters provided great insight into Bethany from her past. I recommend this read. I was provided an advanced reader copy for my honest review. (less)
I'm sad to think this is the last book in the O'Connor family saga. I've been reading Julie Lessman for years and with all the kids that have been bor...moreI'm sad to think this is the last book in the O'Connor family saga. I've been reading Julie Lessman for years and with all the kids that have been born to the characters, she can literally continue this series for a lifetime. How about that, Ms. Lessman?
Okay, on to the review. This was a fantastic story, just like all of those before. The writing is riveting and keeps you glued to the page--a very descriptive writer whose prose creates the world for you and your imagination can take a break. It's truly a great gift; I feel like I'm witnessing every touch, taste, feel... And being one of the most descriptive authors of "passion," the reader has even more fun and you'll no doubt blush, tingle and shiver in excitement.
The hero. He's going to cause the blushing and giggling--as it should be. I've been waiting a long time for Steven's story. Steven is a self-proclaimed bachelor, although he's not opposed to some heavy petting, if only to pass the time as a man who doesn't want marriage. He labors under guilt of past actions with a woman and believes he'll ruin any girl and therefore isn't worth having one. I do believe his self-imposed shame was a bit over the top, but I'm sure some have felt this way and it might not be that unrealistic.
Annie Kennedy is the younger sister of the woman who is the source of Steven's guilt. After her sister moves across the country (all hail convenience) she sets her sights on winning over Steven. I can't for the life of me understand why Annie's first choice of men would be one she's never met, except perhaps maybe because Annie--a very good girl--idolizes her older sister's waywardness and Annie believes she can liven up her seemingly dull life with the same man. I get it--I probably would have found my own man (if I had a sister), but it helps that she meets Steven early on without knowing he's her sister's Steven.
I give this book four stars. It was a bit predictable, but the story was quite enjoyable. Lots of family drama which is one of the reasons why I love reading Ms. Lessman's books--characters from her former novels return and their lives continue. If you've been following the series, you'll get a bit teary-eyed at the conclusion and it's a great feeling--until you realize it's over! HAHA, you'll enjoy it.(less)
I've recently finished debut author Jessica Nelson's recently released Love Inspired Historical, Love on the Range. Set during the flu epidemic of the...moreI've recently finished debut author Jessica Nelson's recently released Love Inspired Historical, Love on the Range. Set during the flu epidemic of the early 1900's, a young socialite sets out for the West to make a name for herself by finding an elusive lawman, Striker, to interview. She hopes by securing an exclusive with the man both rumored to be a child-killer and the savior of kidnapped women, she would earn a position at a prominent paper and live her life as she pleased, instead of marrying a complete bore at the request of her parents.
I thought Jessica's voice was quite fresh, the pacing of her scenes just right (except the almost-kissing scenes--you really could have dragged those out, for my sake), and her hero appropriately hunky. In fact, the thing I liked most about this book was the hero. Most everything he said was summed up in five words or less, which I thought was quite funny. The heroine would be blabbing and she'd ask a question and get a "Yep" or a shrug, or scowl...okay that might be a bit of an exaggeration, but it made him real country-like and a stark contrast to her Boston upbringing. He seemed to have a slight temper too, which I thought added a bit more depth to his character. All male heroes can't be patient and understanding all the time, right? Don't worry; it never got out of hand.
I also enjoyed the history that was woven into the plot. The influenza epidemic that was killing people off by the truckloads, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation were both quite interesting elements. I hadn't realized the Bureau was established as such that early in history. It's always fun when you learn something new from a fiction book!
I'm sure we'll be seeing more titles from Ms. Nelson!
This is the first book I've read by this author and it won't be my last. Before Dawn Breaks is the story of two agents caught in the crossfire of a co...moreThis is the first book I've read by this author and it won't be my last. Before Dawn Breaks is the story of two agents caught in the crossfire of a corrupt Senator. Hero Josh Mayer is assigned to protect assassin Alexandra Lyons and the two become entrenched in a battle over money that threatens their lives. This is a really good book. The pacing is rapid, dialogue snappy, and Ms. Lori writes such believable action scenes that you can really see the fighting. The plot is plausible and the activities of these agents and the agency to which they belong is wholly believable. Furthermore, Ms. Lori sets up the romance with strong, emotional characters--even the villains were well developed. There's a plot twist I totally didn't see coming and you just have to read it to see how good it is. (less)
Promise Me This, set during pre-World War I era, is a beautiful love story between a street rat, Michael Dunnagan, and a young woman born to privilege...morePromise Me This, set during pre-World War I era, is a beautiful love story between a street rat, Michael Dunnagan, and a young woman born to privilege, Annie Allen. They catch a glimpse of each other when they are still children. Annie's older brother, Owen, shows the young Irish lad charity and gives him a job. Promising his sister a new life in America, Owen buys passage on the ill-fated Titanic and tells Annie that he will send for her soon. Also seeking a fresh start, Michael stows away on the Titanic. Only Michael survives, but the brotherly bond between Owen and Michael is so great, Michael promises to one day bring Annie to America.
This is the first book by Cathy that I have read and I must say, I enjoyed it. Her voice is hauntingly romantic, and I felt as if I were watching, instead of reading, a BBC movie based on a novel from ages past. In fact, if it hasn't been optioned for film, it should be; just saying.
Annie and Michael come from very different backgrounds and each of them face painful struggles attached to their circumstances. Through their present situation of being separated and the pain of losing a loved one, I was very engaged and eager to see how these two young individuals would fight through their grief and connect with each other. Cathy has written obstacle after obstacle into her characters' lives and watching them grow and mature was a pleasant experience. Grief, anger, bitterness, revenge...all our explored in this wonderful story about compassion and forgiveness.
One of my favorite scenes was the sinking of the Titanic. Spread over several chapters, Cathy takes you on a visual tour moving you across the ship from trapped lower level passengers, to upper-class ticket holders being safely loaded into boats, to an elderly couple content to leave the world together, and finally to that famous band that went down playing their instruments. The way she wrote that historical event was fascinating. I believed she captured the range of emotions that must have occurred on that sad night, and I had a vivid image of being safely beside Michael on a lifeboat watching the "unsinkable" ship slip beneath the icy surface and into a watery grave. Even her images of battles occurring during WWI were brilliant, exciting and graphic.
If you haven't read anything by Cathy Gohlke, then I recommend you pick up her latest novel, Promise Me This. You may visit her website and Tyndale House for more on this author and her newest release. (less)
I picked up my copy of Tim Tebow's memoir (haha, in his mid-twenties and already has a memoir--I wonder what mine would say before I turned 22...proba...moreI picked up my copy of Tim Tebow's memoir (haha, in his mid-twenties and already has a memoir--I wonder what mine would say before I turned 22...probably not much), Through My Eyes, at the height of media fame (this winter after his great run with the Broncos) just to learn a bit more about him. I remember seeing the commercial he did with his mother for Focus on the Family during the Superbowl the other year, but other than he was very vocal about his faith, I didn't know much else.
The book details his life before his birth through his first season with the Broncos. He showcases different experiences of his life that taught him to be the hard-working, compassionate, bold-for-Christ person we see exhibited in the media and in football. He credits not only his faith for his positive outlook in life, but also his parents which helped instill that faith in him and nurtured him into the adult he's become. Many times, throughout the book, he referenced scripture verses that helped him through the most difficult times of trying to play football while homeschooled or being injured in college--and the uncertainty of it all--and of course those verses he rejoiced over when the blessings came his way.
I gotta say, Timmy is funny. Sometimes the humor was outright and at other times, subtle. It was those subtle moments that had me laughing out loud. I'd bet a conversation with him would be light-hearted and funny, and just all-around pleasant. Of course, he's never responded to any of my tweets... :-)
If you want an encouraging story (I have to admit, sometimes he shamed me with his work ethic, level of faith, etc...but it won't get you down, I promise) for yourself and/or your children (definitely would recommend this reading to kids) and if you can get past the sometimes confusing football plays, then Through My Eyes is for you. Read it anyway; you'll be glad you did.(less)
I have to say, the book was pretty funny. Steve Harvey has a refreshing voice that kept this how-to book very light and easy to get through (you know...moreI have to say, the book was pretty funny. Steve Harvey has a refreshing voice that kept this how-to book very light and easy to get through (you know how some can drone on and on and you really just want the magic tool--well, there is no magic tool but you get my drift).
First he lays down the mindset of a man: what drives them, how they express love (different from women), the three main things they need, and how being creative in your speech can get them to listen.
He also explores the two categories men label women: "sports fish" and "keepers." You can guess what they mean. He tackles 'mama's boys' and why men cheat. He also offers some behavioral tips for women that will keep a man interested and send the losers packing.
One thing that I've always said about men is that they need to have a plan. If they don't have a life plan, what are they doing? Remember "I coulda been a contenda. I coulda been somebody. Instead, I'm just a bum." Yup, that's right. A man with no goals, one who is just dreaming without actually doing something, is a bum. Steve is all for women asking a man up front about his short and long term goals, what his views are on relationships, etc. because why waste time with someone who isn't able to give you his time (after he's done with his laser-like focus on his career, aka--he's established)and support? True, many men change careers nowadays, but someone who doesn't have a plan is just a scrub (click this song for cultural reference).
The one drawback is Steve writes as if he approves of women giving away the "cookie." I shouldn't have to explain that term. He claims to be a Christian, and I understand that I belong to an exclusive club that doesn't believe in sex before marriage, that plenty of people think it's 'okay' to sleep with their partner as long as they're 'in love,' but I don't think Steve has marketed this book as an exclusive Christian book. He mentioned many times that people should pray about their relationship, and that God has a role and should be first in one's life. Anyway, he says wait 90 days to see if the guy will hang around; a guy who just wants the "cookie" and nothing else will not stick it out for a never-ending 90-day stretch.
Overall, I enjoyed reading his perspective. I've had many a conversation with girls about a man's mindset and frankly, a lot of women don't believe what he says we should do. Be upfront about what you want, ask him what he wants...I think girls today are afraid to say anything because they think they will scare the guy away (believe me, getting a Christian man to ask a woman out these days is a rarity, but that's another post). Women also don't believe that a man views his worth differently than women do and that men express love differently. This book is worth the read for its humor alone, and if you need a refresher on understanding a man's perspective.(less)
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