December Book Reviews

 The Reading List ~ This is one of those "books about books". It's sweet and sad. The characters are grieving the people they have lost and trying to connect with the people that are still in their lives. Ir's also about the importance of books and libraries in our lives. Trigger warning for suicide.

The Sisters of Sea View ~ I love Julie Klassen's books, and this one is no exception. I'm so excited it's going to be a series. The romances are so sweet and the characters are fun and quirky. I also appreciated her representation of some of the difficulties people with disabilities had during this time. This story is well told and I highly recommend it. I can't wait to read the next book. Thank you Netgalley and Bethany house for the ARC.

All the Lost Places  ~ This book is beautifully written and atmospheric. The characters are interesting and complex, but for some reason I really struggled to connect to the story. Like, to the point I struggled to keep up with what was going on. I know I'm in the minority because this book is getting great reviews, so don't take my word for it. Try it for yourself. Thank you Netgalley and Bethany House for the ARC.

The Marriage Portrait ~ So, this one gave me I Was Anastasia vibes. It has a very ominous tone, and, historically, you know things don't work out well for the main character. But then there are glimpses of hope here and there. It's excellently written, and I can't stop thinking about the ending. Recommended if you don't mind heavier literary fiction.

The Christmas Letters ~ This is my second reading of this novella. I have mixed feelings. The first two-thirds are charming and upbeat even through the hard times. The final third is a bit of a downer. The more modern family doesn't do so well. It's an interesting commentary on the twentieth century through the letters of three generations of women. It's good and short and it has recipes.

Anna Karenina ~ I read it. It was a long term project. I listened to the Audible edition narrated by Maggie Gyllenhaal which was fantastic. I highly recommend going that route if you choose to pick this one up.

The Circus Train ~ This one really tugged at my heart strings. Although I struggled at times to stay interested, the story really picked up in the second half and kept me up late reading. I became very invested in Lena and Alexandre and their love story. Recommended for historical romance readers.

November Book Reviews

 A Deal with the Elf King by Elise Kova ~ Who knew a retelling of Persephone and Hades set in an Elf kingdom would be so enjoyable. Luella is a determined and caring heroine. Eldas is a brooding...well, he broods. Together they have what it takes to save their kingdoms. (Warning for some open door bedroom scenes.) This is a fun one!

Nettle and Bone ~ This beautifully written fantasy had some great fairy tale elements. It also had a 'bone dog' and a demon chicken. This was the most unique book I read all year, so far. The protagonist is just trying to save her sister who hates her. What could go wrong. It's a charming story, and it can be read in a weekend. Highly recommended!

The Ways We Hide by Kristina McMorris ~ You would think by now I would be tired of World War Two stories. I'm not. I'm fascinated by how many different takes there are on the time period. This one takes place in England and The Netherlands but it focuses on spycraft, which I loved. Combine that with a heroine that struggles with PTSD and loves to do magic tricks and you have a really great novel. It got a little long in places, and probably could have been told with about one hundred fewer pages, but it was well worth the read. I can't help comparing it to Code Name Helene by Ariel Lawhon. Recommended if you don't mind long books and enjoy WW2. Thanks Netgalley and Sourcebooks for an ARC of this book.

The Matchmaker's Gift by Lynda Cohen Loigman ~ This book made my heart happy. Sara was a delightful character from the very first page. She's sweet and caring. She is selfless and determined to help her family and the people around her. The current day character was excellent, too. I loved the idea of a reverse divorce attorney. This was a great book to read around the holidays, and many Jewish holidays were celebrated in the pages of the story as well. Highly recommended! Thank you Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for the ARC.

All That Really Matters by Nicole Deese ~ I needed something fairly light and happy for Thanksgiving week and this contemporary romance was perfect. Molly was a sweet slightly self absorbed heroine without being obnoxious and whiney. Silas was a little bit like Mr. Darcy. Prickly at first, but very romantic. They both grew a lot and I loved the side characters. My library has book two in the series, and I'm looking forward to reading it.

October 2022 Wrap Up

A Lady's Guide to Fortune Hunting

This was a very cute, very witty regency romance. I liked both of the main characters. I would have enjoyed it more if they had feelings for each other a little sooner. It's a romance. You know what's going to happen. Give me some chemistry for crying out loud! But, if you love the time period, and you want something chaste, this story is recommended. I'll definitely pick up the next book. I'm hoping it's about the next sister in line. 

Jacqueline in Paris

It was a lot of fun seeing Paris through Jackie Kennedy's eyes before she was Jackie Kennedy. This novel was well researched and beautifully written. I enjoy books set shortly after World War 2. They  are good reminders that things didn't go right back to normal. Wars and disasters take a while to recover from, and, in the case of this book, there were new challenges and evils to face. I found the second half of the book to be faster paced than the first, but it was overall a lovely read.

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher for the purpose of review.

These Violent Delights

This book was a lot of fun for the month of October. It has a monster and a mystery and a VERY creepy setting. It's also a loose retelling of Romeo and Juliet. I'm looking forward to reading the sequel.

 

In Search of a Prince

This is such a fun contemporary romance. I love all of the royal protocols and immersing myself in the culture. The author did a tremendous job building the world of Oloro Ile. I wish it were real, so I could visit. The romance was perfect. The leading man was swoony, and the first kiss was worth waiting for. I also appreciated the faith elements, and how important prayer was to all of the characters. I can't wait for the next book in the series. Highly recommended if you enjoy romance, especially fairy tales.

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher for the purpose of review.

Under the Bayou Moon by Valerie Fraser Luesse

 

Under the Bayou Moon

This was a beautiful, atmospheric novel set in 1950's Louisiana. I loved the setting and the charming characters. It had the feeling of being even farther back in history because of the one room schoolhouse, and everyone getting around on boats. The author did and excellent job of making you feel like you were really on the bayou.

The romance was sweet and mature, which I appreciated. I enjoy a romance that isn't too drawn out with lots of angst and hand wringing. The character development is well done too. I would recommend this book to lovers of historical romance and atmospheric novels

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher and Netgalley for the purpose of review.

Book Review ~ The Nature of Small Birds

 

The Nature of Small Birds

I don't think I've read another book quite like this one. It was beautiful and unique. The story is told from three different timelines by three different characters. The two daughters were both my age, so I loved all of the 80's references. 

Susie Finkbeiner tells a lovely story about family and faith and acceptance. It is more character driven than plot driven, but U still found myself turning the pages to find out what was going to happen. I appreciate that the ending wasn't wrapped up neatly with a bow, although I wouldn't mind sequel. This will be one of my favorites of the year for sure.

I would highly recommend this novel to lovers of character driven, faith based fiction.

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher for the purpose of review.

Book Review ~ A Dance in Donegal by Jennifer Deibal

 

A Dance in Donegal

This was an enjoyable story that fans of inspirational romance will really enjoy. It is chocked full of mystery, romance, interesting characters, beautiful scenery, and faith elements that will challenge and inspire you. I would encourage you to snag a copy of the audio book to get the full effect. Most of the Irish names and dialect are hard to read which can be distracting to the story. Still, it was a fun ride that reminded me of the Christian classic, Christy. Definitely check it out.

I received a copy of this book for free for the purpose of review.

Book Review ~ A Cowboy for Keeps by Jody Hedlund

 

A Cowboy for Keeps

This was a sweet and delightful read. More and more I find myself turning to Christian historical romance for comfort reading. I've always enjoyed marriage of convenience stories, so this was just perfect for me.There's lots of adventure and romance. The hero is perfect and swoon worthy. I really enjoyed the Colorado setting as well I'm looking forward to continuing this series and getting to know the rest Wyatt's family.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher and Netgalley for the purpose of review.

Book Review ~ All That We Carried by Erin Bartels

All That We Carried

 

This was a really good family drama. I enjoyed the author's writing style, and the story flowed well. I like stories of siblings reconciling, so this was right up my alley. Both of these characters were likable and flawed. They both experienced a lot of growth through out the story. Also, the setting was gorgeous. 

I was disappointed in the faith themes on this story. They were extremely vague. If this book wasn't by a Christian publisher, I wouldn't have known it was supposed to be Christian fiction. It just seemed "spiritual". Neither of the characters were Christians and there wasn't really any religious foundation to draw from. There were a couple of characters that kept trying to give them good directions but some of that was just chalked up to fate. It was somewhat confusing. The story was engaging though. If you like family drama or adventure stories, I would recommend it.

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher for the purpose of review.

Book Review ~ The Dress Shop on King Street

 

The Dress Shop on King Street

I thought I would really enjoy this one, but, unfortunately, it didn't hold my attention. I ended up DNFing about one-third of the way through. It's getting great reviews, though, so I would recommend checking it out for yourself.

I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher and Netgalley.

November Wrap Up

 

Silver Sparrow

This is the second book I've read by Tayari Jones, and I'm on the hunt to read more. I love her writing, but her topics are hard. This follows two girls who are the daughters of a bigamist. It's a totally fictional story, and it's so good. I love that it's set in Atlanta in the 80's. If you don't mind somewhat gritty stories with realistic endings, check it out.

In the Bleak Midwinter

I listened to this on audio. There was way to much language for me to really enjoy it, which was a shame, because I love the premise of the series. The mystery was really good, too, and kept me guessing. If you don't mind profanity, you might want to give it a try. I may try the next book in print.

The Right Kind of Fool

This sweet, gentle book was exactly what I needed. Even though it is essentially a murder mystery, the themes of friendship, first love, family ties, and belonging make it the perfect comfort read. Sarah Loudin Thomas has a lovely writing style. Her pacing is perfect through out. I love the character's growth and the family dynamics. Loyal is a wonderful hero. I hope to see more books that feature main characters with disabilities in the future. His hearing impairment added such depth to the story. I hope we get to visit Beverly, West Virginia again.

 I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher for the purpose of review.

Search for Certainty

I picked up this book after I learned the author had passed away. There are so many hope filled stories in this spiritual memoir. Comparisons are drawn between the uncertainties in the Christian life and the 40 years in the wilderness that Moses faced. There are study questions and scriptures to read at the end of each chapter as well as meditation exercises to make it more of a Bible study. I would recommend this book to any Christian that is struggling with uncertainty in their lives.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley for free for the purpose of review.

The Possibility of Prayer

This is a great little book about prayer. Nothing really new or earth shattering, but I really enjoyed reading it.

A Castaway in Cornwall

Julie Klassen is a favorite author, and I will read anything she writes. A Castaway in Cornwall has an intriguing mystery and a lovely romance. I loved escaping to Cornwall, and getting to know the eclectic cast of characters and their fascinating life by the sea. The story was a little long in parts, so I would recommend reading it when you want a richer, longer read. It's perfect for the winter season, so brew a cup of tea and settle in.

I received a free copy of this book for the purpose of review.

All I Want

This novella is adorable. It gave me all the feels. If your looking for a feel-good quick read this holiday season, All I Want is perfect. It's number two in a series, but it stands well on it's own.

Book Review ~ Searching For Certainty

 

Searching For Certainty

I picked up this book after I learned the author had passed away. There are so many hope filled stories in this spiritual memoir. Comparisons are drawn between the uncertainties in the Christian life and the 40 years in the wilderness that Moses faced. There are study questions and scriptures to read at the end of each chapter as well as meditation exercises to make it more of a Bible study. I would recommend this book to any Christian that is struggling with uncertainty in their lives.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley for free for the purpose of review.

Book Review ~ The Right Kind of Fool

 

The Right Kind of Fool

This sweet, gentle book was exactly what I needed. Even though it is essentially a murder mystery, the themes of friendship, first love, family ties, and belonging make it the perfect comfort read. Sarah Loudin Thomas has a lovely writing style. Her pacing is perfect through out. I love the character's growth and the family dynamics. Loyal is a wonderful hero. I hope to see more books that feature main characters with disabilities in the future. His hearing impairment added such depth to the story. I hope we get to visit Beverly, West Virginia again.

 I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher for the purpose of review.

October Wrap Up

 

If I Were You

This was an entertaining story about two friends, betrayal, and forgiveness. Every time I think I'm finished reading about WW2 I find another fascinating story about it. I love Lynn Austin's writing style, and this story of friendship was comforting to me.

The Shepherd's Wife

This book really pulled at my heart strings. I was rooting for Pheodora and her husband the whole time. I'm really enjoy this fictional look at what life might have been like for Jesus' family, and what life would have been like for ordinary people in the New Testament times. Angela Hunt is a go to author for me for quality, well written biblical fiction. Her books are well researched and her characters are so realistic. This book stands well on its own or you can start with the first book in the series, Daughter of Cana.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher for the purpose of review.

The Sowing Season

This was an enjoyable coming of age meets grumpy old man story.  I loved Rae and was rooting for her to find her way. Garrit was a lot harder to love. Some of his antics were a little over the top, but he had the most growth as a character. I also loved all the animal characters that were in the story. They added a lot of fun. 

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher for the purpose of review.

The Light at Wyndcliff

I love Regency romance! This one had a great slow burn romance and a dangerous mystery. I have loved all of these Cornwall novels, but I think this one is my favorite. It's very atmospheric, and the characters have great chemistry. I highly recommend this whole series.

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley for the purpose of review, and I also purchased a copy for myself.

As Bright as Heaven

I think I could read Susan Meissner's grocery list and be thoroughly entertained. This story about one family's struggle to survive the Spanish flu broke my heart. I had to put the book down at about the halfway point. I didn't love the ending. I felt like it wrapped up too neatly, but after all the heart break, a happy ending was nice.

Book Review ~ The Light of His Presence by Anne Graham Lotz

 The Light of His Presence

This collection of prayers is a great place to start if you struggle with your prayer life. It covers prayers for every issue you could possibly think of. Whether you are looking for instruction or inspiration, this book will be huge help. Anne draws heavily from scripture to write out her prayers. There's also beautiful art work and quotes through out, as well. Highly recommended.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher for the purpose of review. 

Book Review ~ The Shepherd's Wife by Angela Hunt

 

The Shepherd's Wife

This book really pulled at my heart strings. I was rooting for Pheodora and her husband the whole time. I'm really enjoy this fictional look at what life might have been like for Jesus' family, and what life would have been like for ordinary people in the New Testament times. Angela Hunt is a go to author for me for quality, well written biblical fiction. Her books are well researched and her characters are so realistic. This book stands well on its own or you can start with the first book in the series, Daughter of Cana.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher for the purpose of review.

September Wrap Up

 

The Book of Lost Friends

I love Lisa Wingate's writing style. It's so flowing and gentle. I put this book off for a while because I was afraid I would enjoy it as much as Before We Were Yours, but I loved it. It has some hard moments, but the payoff is worth it. Highly recommended.

The Last Year of the War

This was a reread for me. This was my favorite book from last year and has become an all time favorite as well. It's a very emotional read for me. This family goes through so much and it's just heart breaking. definitely give it a read, but have some tissues ready. 

The Edge of Belonging

This was a solid debut, and I look forward to reading more by this author in the future. I liked the main character and thought she had good chemistry with her love interest. I would have liked to see more drama between her and her ex, and I also would have liked to have learned more about her relationship with her parents. Still, she was someone to root for. The faith elements were strong throughout the story. Themes of redemption and grief were prevalent, but so was faith in God. There are a lot of heavy topics dealt with in this story such as suicide, domestic violence, depression, and homelessness, but they are all handled well. I would recommend this book to readers who like women's fiction and romance.

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher for the purpose of review.

The Poet X

I have mixed feelings about this one. Overall I liked it. It's told in verse which makes it very interesting. It's also pretty heavy. It covers all the issues a teenager can face and wraps things up fairly quickly. I did appreciate the sympathetic religious father figure. It was a nice balance to her hyper religious mother. 

Transcendent Kingdom

This was another book that touched on religious themes, and for the most part, it did it well. It also deals with grief, drug addiction, and family relationships. The writing style is more literary and character driven. This one also ended rather abruptly, but the ending was more ambiguous. I wish I could sit down and have coffee with the main character. She is someone that will stick with me for a long time.

Book Review ~ The Edge of Belonging by Amanda Cox

 

The Edge of Belonging

This was a solid debut, and I look forward to reading more by this author in the future. I liked the main character and thought she had good chemistry with her love interest. I would have liked to see more drama between her and her ex, and I also would have liked to have learned more about her relationship with her parents. Still, she was someone to root for. The faith elements were strong throughout the story. Themes of redemption and grief were prevalent, but so was faith in God. There are a lot of heavy topics dealt with in this story such as suicide, domestic violence, depression, and homelessness, but they are all handled well. I would recommend this book to readers who like women's fiction and romance.

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher for the purpose of review.

August Wrap Up

Here are some quick reviews of the books I read this month.

The Jane Austen Society

This story was an absolute delight! I love historical fiction, Jane Austen, and World War Two settings, so this checked all my boxes. If you enjoy unlikely friendship stories, you'll enjoy this sweet novel with damaged characters in a charming setting. Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher for the purpose of review.

Dust

This was a lot fun. I enjoy the Peter Pan story, although I'm pretty limited to the Disney version. This is a little bit darker. It's very YA. Lots of angst, but very readable.

The Words Between Us

This was a really enjoyable book about books. It's a bit more literary in style, and character driven. It's published by a Christian publisher, and it's clean. However, there's very little faith content, so if you're looking for true Christian fiction, I don't think this qualifies. It is a really interesting story, though that I would definitelyrecommend. 

Emma

This was delightful. I highly recommend especially if you struggle with Austen. It's like listening to radio theater. Very well done with and excellent cast.

Masquerade at Middlecrest Abbey

I thoroughly enjoyed this marriage of convenience story set in Regency England. There is lots of spy drama and intrigue, and the story moves along at a good pace. I also liked the fact that the main character was an unwed mother. That's something we don't see much in historical fiction, and I thought it added a lot to the story. I would highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy historical romance with a little mystery thrown in.

I received this book for free from Netgalley and the publisher for review, but I also purchased a copy for myself.


The Heiress of Winterwood

I have enjoyed all of Sarah J. Ladd's books so far, but I haven't read her original series, Whispers on the Moors. I finally picked up her debut, and loved it. I'm a sucker for marriage of convenience, and people thrown together in unlikely circumstances, so this was right up my alley. The heroine could be a little frustrating at times, but she meant well. I'm excited to read the next book in this series.


Mercy Road

I really enjoyed the historical aspect of this book. The romance and story line fell a little flat for me. I have enjoyed this author in the past, so I was a little disappointed. It was just ok.


The Viscount and the Vicar's Daughter

This was a fun historical romance that I read on vacation. It was clean with great banter. Mimi Matthews has been a hit with me twice now, so I'll definitely be going back for more.

Have you read any of these? Let me know in the comments.

July Wrap Up

My reading has slowed down somewhat this summer. I'm not sure why, but I'm pretty far off of my goal for eighty books in 2020. I'm going to try to read a lot in August. Maybe I'll hit my stride. I read four books in July and overall, enjoyed them. Here are my thoughts.

The Last Train to Key West

I loved the setting and the background story in this novel. For some reason this author's books always fall a little flat for me. I'll continue to read them because I feel they get continually better, but I wish I could get as lost in them as other people seem to.

The Haunting at Bonaventure Circus

Jaime Jo Wright is my go to author for split time thriller/mysteries. Her books are so unique. Circuses are a little creepy anyway, but throw in a serial killer and a ghost, and it will keep you up at night. Her characters have great chemistry and tension, and her male leads are the right mix of brooding and swoony. The mystery kept me guessing the whole time. I had my suspicions, but wasn't able to figure things out at all. So well done! I recommend this book to readers who enjoy edge of your set mysteries and split time novels.

I received a copy of this book for the purpose of review from the publisher and Netgalley.


These Nameless Things

This is a complex and atmospheric novel perfect for fans of the TV show Lost and The Shack. It has themes of  grief and redemption that really make you think about eternity. Much of it is based on Inferno, which I've never read, so a lot of the symbolism went over my head. That didn't keep mt from enjoying the story and wanting to find out what was going to happen. Some parts of the story didn't have answers, so if you like everything to be neatly wrapped up, you may be disappointed. I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy speculative novels.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher for the purpose of review.

Love and a Little White Lie

This was a delightful contemporary romance. I enjoy books set in churches, so this one had me right from the start. There were plenty of moral dilemmas to work around and lessons to be learned that kept things interesting. The chemistry between the main characters was lots of fun. Such great banter! You can't have a good romance without a little angst. Highly recommended!

I received a copy of this book for free from Netgalley and the publisher for the purpose of review.

How has your reading been going this summer? Let me know in the comments.