What a delightful cozy mystery! I love books set in the United Kingdom, so the Wales setting initially drew me to the story. The Shadow of Death is atWhat a delightful cozy mystery! I love books set in the United Kingdom, so the Wales setting initially drew me to the story. The Shadow of Death is atmospheric, with vivid descriptions of village life. The mystery is well plotted with lots of good clues that kept me entertained and guessing. Sister Agatha and Father Selwyn are a fun pair of sleuths, and the small group of nuns add richness to the narrative. Best of all, there's good characterization, the story is clean and has meaningful spiritual depth. Highly recommended, 4.5*.
The third and most recent addition to this series was published in 2020, but I certainly hope for many more....more
This is the first I've read by Clipston that wasn't Amish and I enjoyed it. The small town, close friendships, and lake resort area in North Carolina This is the first I've read by Clipston that wasn't Amish and I enjoyed it. The small town, close friendships, and lake resort area in North Carolina are delightful. The bittersweet themes of loss followed by the determination to keep the family tourist spot going in spite of financial debt are heartwarming. It's fun to watch the growing friendship and chemistry between Brianna and Scott.
Only two things kept me from loving this book: I don't enjoy love triangles, and Brianna is in a serious relationship with her fiancée throughout most of the book. Secondly, while this story is probably meant to be a sweet contemporary romance rather than Christian fiction, I expected some type of spiritual theme and felt it would have worked well with this story. Still a good read overall....more
"The river wore starlight like a jeweled gown, an ancient garment that never grew old."
Undercurrent of secretSetting: Louisville, 1926 and present day
"The river wore starlight like a jeweled gown, an ancient garment that never grew old."
Undercurrent of secrets is a surprisingly delightful read! At first, I thought it would be just an average contemporary romance, only to find myself completely caught up in both the storyline and characters by the halfway point. I loved how the riverboat literally became a main character and found both present-day and past history fascinating. A torn photograph takes us back to life on the Belle of Louisville in 1926, namely the riverboat captain and the orphan daughter he raised. Rich historical detail, lively banter, tender romance, unexpected twists, and expressions of a lived-out faith combine to make this a very enjoyable read. I look forward to more of Rachel Scott McDaniel's writing....more
Four delightful short stories in the classic British tradition and set during the Christmas season. Two involve one of my favorites, Inspector DalglieFour delightful short stories in the classic British tradition and set during the Christmas season. Two involve one of my favorites, Inspector Dalgliesh. All are very good and one ends with an unexpected twist that I'm not sure I've figured out yet....more
I was thrilled to read this prequel to the Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series, for if a story ever deserved telling, it was that of Anna and FeltyI was thrilled to read this prequel to the Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill series, for if a story ever deserved telling, it was that of Anna and Felty. Jennifer Beckstrand did a great job bringing this young couple to life in a way that reflects the charming characteristics of the beloved octogenarian Anna and Felty. I didn't have to get acquainted with a new leading couple, for I knew them well already. Their story is a compelling one, a journey from being at odds with the Amish community to being loved and accepted for who they were. Felty's calling by God to join the military during the Korean War created an atmosphere of distrust upon his return, and Anna's creative cooking... Well, enough said. Their honesty, conviction and sincerity is refreshing - and I was especially touched by their desire to see no animal hurt by trapping. A welcome addition to a beloved series!...more
An excellent collection, very well done! Each story clearly reflects the author's voice and style, and Christian faith is evidenced throughout. All thAn excellent collection, very well done! Each story clearly reflects the author's voice and style, and Christian faith is evidenced throughout. All three stories are strong, and to choose a favorite would be up to the preference of individual readers.
Miller's story is lighthearted and plain fun, with lots of traditional cultural imagery. I loved how she brings out not only the joy of the Christmas celebration, but also mentions the pain of Christ's future suffering and the grief of mothers whose sons were slaughtered by Herod.
I love stories with flawed heroes and drama, so I quickly got caught up in Barratt's story. It starts off rather darkly, but changes to one of hope and grace as the story progresses. The writing is exquisite and I will be reading more by this author.
Vetsch's heroine has been subservient to her controlling mother-in-law after her husband's death several years earlier, so this is a story of physical and emotional change. I greatly enjoyed the artistic theme, as well as the compelling Scottish artist!...more
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