In The Secrets of Emberwild by Stephenia H. McGee, Nora loves training her wild stallion Arrow, but this is the early 1900s, and women don’t train racIn The Secrets of Emberwild by Stephenia H. McGee, Nora loves training her wild stallion Arrow, but this is the early 1900s, and women don’t train race horses, nor do they race them. Searching for answers, Silas Cavallero returns to the town where his father lost his life bringing home a prize horse. He ends up on Nora’s ranch where lots of secrets work against him and Nora. The closer they get to discovering the truth of Silas’ father’s death and the missing stallion, the more dangerous life gets. Who is willing to murder again to keep the past buried? McGee writes a riveting tale where the reader worries over Nora and Silas and grow uneasy trying to figure out who real the bad guy is. Everything is connected. McGee succeeds in writing well and in entertaining the reader.
This author is new to me. I look forward to reading more by her....more
Rekindled by Tamera Alexander, Book One in the Fountain Creek series, takes the reader through the rebirth of Larson Jennings, who struggles with trusRekindled by Tamera Alexander, Book One in the Fountain Creek series, takes the reader through the rebirth of Larson Jennings, who struggles with trust issues. Through the story, we walk with Larson after he nearly dies in a fire and when he returns to find his wife standing at his grave. Larson misinterprets what he sees Kathryn doing. This novel illustrates how lies twist his point of view but how he journeys to discover that love overcomes sins—both real and imagined. Kathryn struggles to keep her husband’s dream and ranch alive as an inheritance for their unborn child. Her instincts urge her not to deal with some men in high positions, but she feels they are the only ones who can help her. Alexander weaves a tale that keeps the reader wondering if the bad guys will be discovered and all will not be lost for the Jennings. Since Larson keeps his identity secret, one also keeps reading to find out when he will reveal himself as her husband. Another theme in this story is scars, both internal and external, and how they affect our thinking.
This book has intense, scary scenes to keep the reader on her seat. This is also a sensual novel. I like the themes addressed. Alexander is one of my favorite authors. This is a well-written, engaging novel, and I cared for the characters. ...more
Are you looking to strengthen your prayer life? Here's a book I recommend: The Loudest Roar by Judy Dunagan. It's split into three sections. The firstAre you looking to strengthen your prayer life? Here's a book I recommend: The Loudest Roar by Judy Dunagan. It's split into three sections. The first reminds us that God is stronger than the deceiver, and His roar is bigger and will scare away that one that lurks to steal and lie to us. The second covers areas that we struggle with. The third shows us how to implement what she teaches.
One quote I want to share with you came in a story of two women biking--while a mountain lion attacked one, the other screamed for help and held on to her friend. The persistent friend said afterward, "I'm hanging on to your legs in prayer, and the roaring lion cannot devour you!"
Isn't that an image we can carry with us while we pray for our family and friends? Don't give up! Keep praying.
This is a great read. It's the third in a series, the best yet by this skillful storyteller. There is tension on many levels. There's the tension betwThis is a great read. It's the third in a series, the best yet by this skillful storyteller. There is tension on many levels. There's the tension between Sierra and Hunter as enemies in a war, but then she is captured and there is the tension of romantic attraction. There's the tension created by an unstable, crazy woman, River, who hopes to kill her brother's love interest and steal Sierra's best friend. There is tension with characters wrestling over where they belong in the world, whether their faith is stable or cracking, along with the normal tensions of war and trust issues in circumstances where the truth gets fuzzy. It's an intense read full of surprises and a realistic ending.
I felt Sierra's fear and confusion over Hunter's intentions and his scary mood swings with his sister. I admire Sierra for staying true to herself despite the odds against her.
This prequel tells how the dystopian world evolved for the other novels in this series: Hesitant Heroes and Relentless Rebels. I highly recommend it for mature teens and up. ...more
Frustrated that her unemployed husband won’t accept less than his dream job, Kit Squires gives him an ultimatum. While listening to the radio station Frustrated that her unemployed husband won’t accept less than his dream job, Kit Squires gives him an ultimatum. While listening to the radio station he used to deejay on, she hears gunshots and his voice. She rushes to the station to be stopped by officers. Soon her husband Jeff becomes a prime suspect in a murder investigation.
Kit and Jeff’s son, Bryce, a senior in high school, and his sister Maddie refuse to believe their father murdered anyone. Hints throughout the story show the reader Jeff’s integrity, yet Kit heard his voice on the radio. She wrestles with what she knows about Jeff and what she heard.
Dead Air takes lies Kit believes and blinds her to the truth. Somehow the wounds of her childhood cause her to believe the worst in someone she should not question—her husband. Mary Hamilton takes a time of upheaval in their life and casts doubt in Kit’s mind despite the known character traits. One might wonder how can this happen, but it does when people are under a lot of stress and let the fears overtake their thinking.
Well-thought-out clues help the sleuth reader dig into the case alongside the police and Bryce. Eventually, the suspense comes with Kit trying to figure out who the murderer is. The danger keeps the reader on the edge of her seat. We want to know why. We want to know how. Excellent story. I highly recommend it for adults and older teens. ...more
I loved this middle-grade novel. Carlson does an excellent job developing her characters and weaving in world history into a story about protecting frI loved this middle-grade novel. Carlson does an excellent job developing her characters and weaving in world history into a story about protecting friendships, forgiving those who hurt or scare us, and looking past outward appearances. The story also incorporates the theme of friends helping friends. My favorite character arc was with Old Man/Mr. Morton, the crusty, stubborn, misunderstood, elderly veteran. Near the end, I had to smile over the changes. I loved how their relationship grew. This novel has a beautiful ending with several characters.
Be sure to grab a box of tissues while reading this debut novel. I cried during the blizzard. Carlson captures emotions on the page.
Sissy is a caring and spunky character, whom I think 8-12-year-olds will relate to.
Since I’m fond of quotes, I appreciated that each chapter begins with a quote relevant to that time period. I enjoyed the descriptions, too. One of my favorites was when “Father grinned wider than an open barn door.” That just makes me smile. What an image!
One money-making scheme makes me wonder if there is a sequel about an archaeological dig. I sure hope so, because I’d like to spend more time with these characters. Some characters and events are based on family stories related to the author. That’s another cool tidbit I find interesting. ...more
This is my favorite Tamera Alexander novel. My daughter loved it so I read it, and I loved it. It's about a woman who wants to be a photographer shortThis is my favorite Tamera Alexander novel. My daughter loved it so I read it, and I loved it. It's about a woman who wants to be a photographer shortly after the Civil War, but of course, women have it harder to prove themselves during this period. There's a murder mystery to solve, an interesting historical perspective, a clean romance, and lots of humor. A great read!...more
I loved reading the continuing story of Brigitte and Rene and Bemidii! I find it especially intriguing that the novel is set in an area I have visitedI loved reading the continuing story of Brigitte and Rene and Bemidii! I find it especially intriguing that the novel is set in an area I have visited and includes real people and events from history.
In Song for the Hunter, Bemidii (Benjamin) finds himself in serious trouble after defending his sister, Brigitte. He wants to do what is right, yet circumstances make the situation delicate. He falls in love with a woman he thinks will never accept him after she learns his horrible secret. Because of his heritage, the tension is high over whether he will get a fair trial or not. Benjamin is a noble character. I really liked him and rooted for him.
The author does a great job capturing emotions, describing people, places and events, and bringing characters to life. I was immersed so much that I thought about them even when I couldn't read at the moment.
I recommend this great, historical romance....more
I think teens will love the exciting conclusion of this dystopian YA series that ends with a surprise. Relentless Rebels by Sharon Rene looks at the iI think teens will love the exciting conclusion of this dystopian YA series that ends with a surprise. Relentless Rebels by Sharon Rene looks at the internal struggles that develop as one fights external battles in a corrupt society. The author portrays character emotions and growth in powerful scenes. Thrust into 2063, readers root for Team Seven to overcome the evil ruler, but also root for them to overcome their fears and doubts and to choose the righteous way to act over the temptations for vengeance. Working through anger and unforgiveness makes life messy in a normal situation. Add righting a wrong in there and you’ve got yourself lots of tension. ...more
All her life, Reina Pierce lived protected at her mother’s finca. I didn’t like Reina at first because of how she treated her mother, but as the storyAll her life, Reina Pierce lived protected at her mother’s finca. I didn’t like Reina at first because of how she treated her mother, but as the story progresses, we learn people aren’t always who you think they are. Descended from the founder of this matriarchy set in the South American jungles, Reina’s life changes when her reigning grandmother chooses her to compete in the Selection. From the Selection, an apprentice will be chosen to take the grandmother’s place.
The troubling and dangerous premise involves making men disposable servants. They call these altered men, Gentles. The threatening men, who many believe lived only in the past, are called Brutes and lurk beyond the boundaries of Nede.
Grandmother believes Reina’s mother raised her soft. Before the Selection, Reina questioned her calling in life. This all-women society has different occupations to choose from. As part of the Selection, Reina experiences some of the options.
Her competitors in the Selection increase the dangers Reina faces in a world where trusting someone costs either party if discovered. Living this way exhausts her. Along the way discoveries fuel her to a greater goal.
She walks a fine line. Secretly, Reina questions the brutal system. Such doubts leave her in a precarious situation. Mother tells Reina to remember who she is, but Reina wonders who she is from the beginning. You’ll have to read this book to find out who she learns she is. And I need to read the next novel so I can know if the dangers and sacrifices and dreams culminate in something better for Nede. A Brutal Justice, also published last year, advertises the exciting conclusion to the Nede Rising Series. ...more
This is a moving story about a couple working to save their marriage in a most difficult circumstance. Chad serves time in prison for a crime he didn'This is a moving story about a couple working to save their marriage in a most difficult circumstance. Chad serves time in prison for a crime he didn't commit. When he is released, freedom isn't as easy as one would think. This novel looks at the difficulties families impacted by prison face. I learned a lot. It's a beautiful story of what happens when you persevere through a tough situation with the help of God.
This fun, clean, historical romance had me laughing hard in spots. I love Sheriff Joshua and his beautiful sister, Jules, and her matchmaking ways! ThThis fun, clean, historical romance had me laughing hard in spots. I love Sheriff Joshua and his beautiful sister, Jules, and her matchmaking ways! Thanks, Jodie Wolfe, for a pleasurable read!...more
This is a suspenseful mystery that kept me up late reading so I could find out who the murderer was. A great book! I started recommending it to severaThis is a suspenseful mystery that kept me up late reading so I could find out who the murderer was. A great book! I started recommending it to several people before I even finished....more
From the first page of this YA story, I wanted to know if this proud princess would get the desires of her heart. This is a beautifully written and grFrom the first page of this YA story, I wanted to know if this proud princess would get the desires of her heart. This is a beautifully written and gripping tale of one girl's search for significance. Beatriz thinks obtaining a gift will bring her worth and purpose, but the adventure she embarks on delivers her much more than she imagines.
Being self-absorbed, Beatriz misses some of the treasures in her life right before her eyes and overlooks some real dangers. This is a story of finding real friends and discovering that our value doesn't come from something we get but rather from something we give.
Beatriz discovers her true strength and value. Laude is the kind of loyal friend we all desire. And Zichri is another character readers will love.
I highly recommend this fantasy novel, Unbetrothed. I received an ARC prior to publication, but I can't wait to buy a copy for my own teens and to tell others about this moving tale, sprinkled with sweet romance. A must read for 2022! ...more
Here's a novel recommendation for your younger teen girls. The hero and heroine wrestle with self-perception and self-confidence issues based on theirHere's a novel recommendation for your younger teen girls. The hero and heroine wrestle with self-perception and self-confidence issues based on their perceived deformities. Dickerson novels often tie in with a fairy tale; this one is the Ugly Duckling. If you love happily-ever-after tales in a clean romance, check out Castle of Refuge. For a complete review, please see my blog at www.michellekaderlywelsh.com....more
One way the devil gets us on to dangerous ground is to put doubts into our minds. He likes to use our insecurities and our desires against us.
The noveOne way the devil gets us on to dangerous ground is to put doubts into our minds. He likes to use our insecurities and our desires against us.
The novel Demons Among Us presents some troubling scenarios of various choices teens face. Battling some don’t appear that dangerous. What’s so wrong about wanting to be valedictorian or getting good grades? What’s wrong with excelling in sports or music? Doesn’t everybody want to be beautiful and successful? Each of us—even Christians who go to church services and activities each week—aren’t immune to these tactics. But it just takes a small shift in our attitude to send us down the wrong path. The first discretion leads to the next and the next, gaining speed like a snowball growing in size as it plummets the mountainside.
More dangerous temptations are to experiment with drugs and alcohol or to play around with the occult. Everyone wants to be accepted and loved. It’s easy to overstep some bounds including sexual temptation or assessing an attractive person.
Demons Among Us is a gripping tale of choices. Each person makes lots of little choices that lead up to some big choices. One of these choices is who will we serve? God or Satan? Each of us answers for ourselves. We want to bring others with us, but we can’t. This chilling story makes one think. Like in real life, we get to see the results of both choices.
What would you do if demons invaded your school? This is a speculative young adult novel, but it hits the truth with clarity. Frank Peretti fans will love this novel. And if you want to observe what’s going on in this community for a scary tale in time for Halloween, find yourself a copy of Jill K. Willis’ novel, Demons Among Us. ...more
Tinsel in a Twist by Laurie Germaine continues the story of Tinsel, the Christmas elf from Tinsel in a Tangle, a novel I raved about last year. TinselTinsel in a Twist by Laurie Germaine continues the story of Tinsel, the Christmas elf from Tinsel in a Tangle, a novel I raved about last year. Tinsel travels with Niklas and Santa and Mrs. Claus to Germany for Niklas’ initiation ceremony, but the anticipated fun trip turns into a nightmare. Tinsel loses her talent, Niklas’ ex-fiancé intends to steal him back, the sought-after Silver Reindeer alludes them, and her allies disappear in a hostile foreign place. Tinsel’s confidence erodes fast, yet her strong character resists repression. If she doesn’t fight to save Christmas, who will?
I love the creative Christmas and winter references sprinkled throughout this fantasy with romance. Most of all, the encouragements found within the pages of this novel stand out. Everyone needs to hear these truths because we all get attacked by something similar to mistlefoil. In the novel, like in life, a real war wages in our thought life. Wise people take these thoughts captive and replace them with truths, but everyone struggles with this at times.
Another point many people wrestle with is how much to share about themselves. Sometimes like Gina we neglect to share something about ourselves out of fear of rejection, but the truth is always best. Holding information back tends to always backfire.
This is an excellent novel any time of the year, but since it's set at Christmastime, go ahead and grab a copy now and indulge in the Christmas spirit. ...more
This is a great speculative novel for teens and adults. The plot is intense. Teens from around the world who are chosen to attend a special school disThis is a great speculative novel for teens and adults. The plot is intense. Teens from around the world who are chosen to attend a special school discover an assassination plot of a key political figure. Some of their friends have disappeared, so they set out to stop the assassination and save their friends who are being framed. Since traitors exist and their lives are in danger, this is a real page-turner.
The likeable characters wrestle with doubts, insecurities, and other emotions as they get deeper into the crisis. Relationships and love interests are challenged.
I like that everyone has a talent/gift to contribute to the cause. Some are talented in martial arts and weaponry, yet others are good with animals.
The conclusion leaves me wondering if I'll see these characters in another page-turning sequel. I hope so! ...more
“I’m sorry for the secrets we kept so long—yours, mine, Mama’s, and our family’s. They’re never worth keeping, are they? Secrets hurt. They shame, som“I’m sorry for the secrets we kept so long—yours, mine, Mama’s, and our family’s. They’re never worth keeping, are they? Secrets hurt. They shame, sometimes even where there is no real shame.”
Lilliana Swope’s life is heaped in secrets. They threaten to kill her, literally.
Night Bird Calling by Cathy Gohlke is a serious story set North Carolina in the early years of WWII. This chilling novel will remain in your mind long after you close the book. The characters are real, and I felt like I’d fallen back in time experiencing the horrors with Lilliana and her 11-year-old friend, Celia.
Night Bird Calling addresses bullying—the domestic kind against girls and women and the injustices against people of different races, religions, and communities—and courage. Lilliana, who is abused by her father and husband, learns to rise above her fears to stand up for others facing abuse. She seeks justice for an abused teen who gets raped and protection for the young man the KKK tries to blame. Bit by bit she breaks down the lies she’s been told and finds the blessings that come from freedom and standing up against wrongs.
Weaved in with the drama is sweet Celia, whose father is in prison for running moonshine. Readers will root for this child as she helps Lilliana find the truth. Sometimes Celia provides comic relief.
Here are some more of my favorite quotes from the novel: “Celia’s excitement and growing sense of purpose made my heart sing. What it would be to live with such joy and purpose each day—to rise every morning looking forward to work that would benefit an entire community, bring us into relationship with one another and use the natural gifs and inclinations we’d all been blessed with. It seemed like heaven opening to me, and that was confusing.”
“You’d be so proud of that girl. She taught me so much about being brave and stepping out to help others, all the while becoming and remaining true to myself.”
I think everyone should read stories of real heroes like Lilliana and Celia. Perhaps our own small actions will make a difference in a world where injustices need to be quelled.
Between the Wild Branches kept me in suspense to the very end. Lukio's story is full of intense scenes and sacrificial love. I love his heart to help Between the Wild Branches kept me in suspense to the very end. Lukio's story is full of intense scenes and sacrificial love. I love his heart to help the oppressed, set apart people. I recommend this novel. It doesn't disappoint and may keep you up late to finish.
The covers of To Dwell among Cedars and Between the Wild Branches connect. I love these designs. Eye catching, beautiful, and well done!
Thanks, Connilyn Cossette, for another great reading experience....more
I liked watching the characters grow in this historical novel set in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. Forgiveness is an underlying theme. Twin sisters, JeI liked watching the characters grow in this historical novel set in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. Forgiveness is an underlying theme. Twin sisters, Jesi and Cori learn to forgive themselves and each other and also learn about real love as opposed to infatuation. This is the last in a three-book series. ...more
My curiosity about the Peshtigo, Wisconsin, fire drew me to this work of fiction. Musch left quite an impression on me of the horrors these people sufMy curiosity about the Peshtigo, Wisconsin, fire drew me to this work of fiction. Musch left quite an impression on me of the horrors these people suffered. This section of the novel brings tears of compassion.
I also wanted to continue this series to learn more about Colette and Manason's family. I liked Lainey and enjoyed this love story involving brothers healing from their own wounds. It's well written and realistic. This is definitely an author whose work I want to continue to read.
This is a fun read for middle school kids. The characters are believable. There are laugh out loud moments.
Not only is Joey trying to earn money thisThis is a fun read for middle school kids. The characters are believable. There are laugh out loud moments.
Not only is Joey trying to earn money this summer, but he's trying to figure out how he feels about girls, especially an irritating neighbor, and he's trying to figure out what he's good at. Sometimes he feels labeled as a troublemaker. Sometimes he feels ganged up on. His best friend is good at everything.
Read The Water Fight Professional to learn how Joey discovers his talents. A great summertime read!...more
This historical novel interested me not only for the storyline, but because my husband's family is spread in the setting areas. His grandmother also mThis historical novel interested me not only for the storyline, but because my husband's family is spread in the setting areas. His grandmother also married someone much older as did Collette. She never wanted to discuss her personal story. If you like learning about a family's story--even though it's fictional--and to experience the motives and consequences, this is a book for you to read with a bad guy you want to see the heroine freed from. ...more
Eliora feels like she doesn't belong and works, works, works to prove she's worthy. Ronen strives to please his uncle and find favor with him and his Eliora feels like she doesn't belong and works, works, works to prove she's worthy. Ronen strives to please his uncle and find favor with him and his cousin. I could relate since I get caught in the people pleasing trap myself. Lukio lashes out at unanswered questions. They must decide who they want to please to find the love and peace they desire. It's a great story. I enjoyed this first book in the Covenant House series. I look forward to the next book which I suspect is about Lukio. I also love how the covers come together in a beautiful spread. Brilliant!...more
This murder mystery brings the suspects into a true friendship as they work to clear their names and find the real murderer. Love how the author tied This murder mystery brings the suspects into a true friendship as they work to clear their names and find the real murderer. Love how the author tied it all together. ...more
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