Friday, January 21, 2022

Book Review ~ Shadows of Swanford Abbey by Julie Klassen

 Shadows of Swanford Abbey by Julie Klassen

Shadows of Swanford Abbey

Another great read from Julie Klassen! I loved the unlikely romance, the who-done-it mystery, and the gothic vibes of the creepy abbey. I highly recommend this book for lovers of historical romance and mystery.

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


Sunday, January 9, 2022

Book Review ~ The Girl Who Could Breathe Under Water by Erin Bartels

The Girl Who Could Breathe Under Water: A Novel 

The Girl Who Could Breathe Under Water

This is a hard book to review. I really enjoyed it. The writing style is exactly what I like. The point of view challenged me as a reader. It had great character growth and an interesting plot. The issue is it is marketed as Christian fiction, but there aren't really any Christians present in the story. There are some vague references to God and who you were created to be, but there is also a rather graphic sex scene and a lot of drinking. This book also needs a strong trigger warning as it deals with sexual abuse. So, while I personally enjoyed the story, I would not recommend it to the typical Christian reader that is looking for a clean read that obviously points to Christ. If you don't mind being challenged and reading something more edgy, you might enjoy this book.

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


Wednesday, October 20, 2021

Book Review ~ Tacos for Two by Betsy St. Amant

 

Tacos for Two

Tacos for Two

This book is perfect for fans of rom-coms and enemies-to-lovers romances. There is lots of witty banter and angst to keep you interested. The characters are funny and insightful, and they grow throughout the story. I loved the use of text messaging as part of the growth of the relationship. Of course, the reader has to be able to suspend their disbelief and forgive a lot of misunderstandings, but that's what makes it fun. I recommend this book for readers of romantic comedies and fans of contemporary romance.

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

Tuesday, September 14, 2021

Under the Bayou Moon by Valerie Fraser Luesse

 Under the Bayou Moon

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.


Wednesday, August 11, 2021

Book Review ~ The Nature of Small Birds

 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.

Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Book Review ~ A Dance in Donegal by Jennifer Deibal

 A Dance in Donegal

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.

Saturday, February 6, 2021

Shadows of the White City (The Windy City Saga, #2)

Shadows of the White City

I really enjoyed this well crafted and exciting novel. There was so much interesting history and fascinating information about the Chicago World's Fair. I also loved seeing characters from the first book in the series, Veiled in Smoke. There are also new characters and a really sweet older romance. The literary references were a lot of fun too. Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction, but you will want to start with the first book.

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

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