Brimming with Emotion, Adversity, and Hope | Review of Burning Sky

About the Book (from Waterbrook Multnomah)

A Christy award-winning novel about a woman caught between two worlds, and the lengths she goes to find where she belongs

Abducted by Mohawk Indians at fourteen and renamed Burning Sky, Willa Obenchain is driven to return to her family’s New York frontier homestead after many years building a life with the People. At the boundary of her father’s property, Willa discovers a wounded Scotsman lying in her path. Feeling obliged to nurse his injuries, the two quickly find much has changed during her twelve-year absence: her childhood home is in disrepair, her missing parents are rumored to be Tories, and the young Richard Waring she once admired is now grown into a man twisted by the horrors of war and claiming ownership of the Obenchain land.

When her Mohawk brother arrives and questions her place in the white world, the cultural divide blurs Willa’s vision. Can she follow Tames-His-Horse back to the People now that she is no longer Burning Sky? And what about Neil MacGregor, the kind and loyal botanist who does not fit into in her plan for a solitary life, yet is now helping her revive her farm? In the aftermath of the Revolutionary War, strong feelings against “savages” abound in the nearby village of Shiloh, leaving Willa’s safety unsure.

As tensions rise, challenging her shielded heart, the woman called Burning Sky must find a new courage—the courage to again risk embracing the blessings the Almighty wants to bestow. Is she brave enough to love again?

My Rating

Summer

My Review

Burning Sky brims with emotion, adversity, and hope. I'm ashamed to say I've had my copy since 2013, and it honestly should not have taken me five years to finally sit down and read it! Based on reading (and loving) Lori Benton's second book, The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn, I knew she could write an engaging story with beautiful characters. And once I got to know Burning Sky, Neil MacGregor, Joseph Tames-His-Horse, and others, Lori's debut didn't disappoint.

I will say it was a heavier, somewhat slower, read for me, as the main character (Willa or Burning Sky) has a long, painful, question-filled journey to take in the months covered through the pages of this historically rich novel. But it's a very meaningful journey, and I can absolutely see why this book won multiple Christy awards.

One of my favorite things about this book is the ending. Based on first impressions, The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn might be my favorite of the two (although I might have to reread it to be sure!), but the one thing that disappointed me a bit with that book was what stood out to me as I finished Burning Sky. I would have loved a bit more from Tamsen's conclusion, but the end of Burning Sky was incredibly satisfying, moving, and uplifting.

This is a romance, yes, and I ultimately loved the direction it took. But this story also deals with other kinds of love and matters of faith and identity. With many layers and challenges, Burning Sky is the kind of read that takes time but offers much to take with you when the journey is done.

*With thanks to the author and Waterbrook Multnomah for providing me with a complimentary ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.*

Read my review of The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn

Bittersweet, But Full of Hope | Review of A Love Undone

About the Book (from Waterbrook Multnomah)

A husband and son abandoned to forge a path alone. 
A young woman who sacrificed her dreams. 
How will the God of grace and hope help them find their way?

At nineteen years old, Old Order Amish Jolene Keim was on the brink of happily-ever-after when everything changed, stealing the future she expected and burdening her with an unbearable decision. For the next ten years, Jolene throws herself into family life—and then she meets Andy Fisher. The horse trainer and father to a sweet nine-year-old challenges her and holds up a mirror to issues Jolene has been unwilling to face.

Andy is cautious about his deepening friendship with Jolene, but he believes she knows the truth about him—that he is a grass widower. As a man whose wife has abandoned him six years past, he is unable to divorce or remarry according to the Amish ways. Andy has wrestled with God concerning his reality, and he had found peace with the solitary future facing him…until he met Jolene.

As Andy and Jolene find themselves confronted by difficult choices, will they trust in God's guidance—or will the allure of their deepening friendship only lead to further temptation?

Available Now

Learn More | Add to Goodreads

My Rating

Spring/Summer

My Review

Cindy Woodsmall writes about difficult circumstances and true-to-life characters with skill and grace. There are three main characters in A Love Undone, in addition to the (mostly) sweet, complex cast surrounding them: Jolene, Andy, and Ray (Jolene's brother). These three have all been affected and changed by deep pain and tragedy, and more hardship threatens in the things unsaid or misunderstood.

Since Andy's history is clear from the book's description, I hope it won't be giving much away to compare the unfolding drama to Jane Eyre (as I'm sure others have noted!). While A Love Undone is a much brighter story, there's definitely a tension in the spark and passion that shouldn't be pursued. It makes this book a sad and difficult read in one sense, and yet...

There is hope in the love of family, the kindness of friends, the effort of good work, the beauty of life, and a faith that lasts through winter's lack. The journey starts out long as Jolene faces great loss, then "speeds up" in the short summer she meets Andy, and finally draws out long again in the wonder-what-they'll-decide conclusion.

This is an Amish novel of secrets, forbidden love, and hope that blossoms even in heartbreak. When the meaning behind the title becomes clear farther along, it casts the whole story in a bittersweet light...but still, there is hope. A Love Undone takes its characters through impossible circumstances, but leaves them stronger and keeps the reader engaged.

*With thanks to WaterBrook Multnomah through Blogging for Books for providing me with a copy of the book.*

My Review of The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn

Here's a description of the book from WaterBrook Multnomah:

"Frontier dangers cannot hold a candle to the risks one woman takes by falling in love

In an act of brave defiance, Tamsen Littlejohn escapes the life her harsh stepfather has forced upon her. Forsaking security and an arranged marriage, she enlists frontiersman Jesse Bird to guide her to the Watauga settlement in western North Carolina. But shedding her old life doesn’t come without cost. As the two cross a vast mountain wilderness, Tamsen faces hardships that test the limits of her faith and endurance.

Convinced that Tamsen has been kidnapped, wealthy suitor Ambrose Kincaid follows after her, in company with her equally determined stepfather. With trouble in pursuit, Tamsen and Jesse find themselves thrust into the conflict of a divided community of Overmountain settlers. The State of Franklin has been declared, but many remain loyal to North Carolina. With one life left behind and chaos on the horizon, Tamsen struggles to adapt to a life for which she was never prepared. But could this challenging frontier life be what her soul has longed for, what God has been leading her toward? As pursuit draws ever nearer, will her faith see her through the greatest danger of all—loving a man who has risked everything for her?"

My Rating

Summer

My Review

The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn is the epitome of what I long for in historical romance - fascinating characters, a fast pace, high tension, intriguing historical details (not overdone), gorgeous and sweeping imagery, engaging and excellent writing, points to ponder, and (of course!) a tender romance. The story is as soft, mysterious, and grand as the cover claims it to be, and I couldn't have been more thrilled with that discovery!

With most historical fiction, there's always the concern that the plot will drag, weighed down by details or less engaging, day-to-day scenes. But Benton's sophomore novel is full of movement, unanswered questions, and suspense to carry the story forward. This led to some late nights for me, as the book contains a delicious balance of literary loveliness and action that guarantees a longer but exciting sojourn on the frontier. And there's enough obvious depth in the first read-through of the story and a perusal of the discussion questions to suggest that subsequent reads could reveal further enchanting elements of the adventure.

I really appreciated the portrayal of the various people groups - from the settlers caught up in the drama of the State of Franklin to the Native Americans as both brutal warriors and beloved friends and family. Each character is complex; each character arc captures the imagination.

My one (very slight) disappointment was that I wished for a little more emphasis on the romance at the end - just another more personal scene to touch on all that the hero and heroine went through together. But not to worry! The romance is a very prominent, surprising, and wonderful part of the story, and I loved it. The hero's patience, devotion, and care completely won me over, and the conclusion of his and Tamsen's story is poignant and hopeful.

Fans of historical romance like Laura Frantz's Courting Morrow Little and Catherine Richmond's Spring for Susannah will adore The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn - a story that delivers in both meat and treat, quality and enjoyment.

*With thanks to WaterBrook Multnomah through Blogging for Books for providing me with an ARC of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.*

Note: The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn releases April 15, 2014.

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Reading Cram Read-a-thon Wrap-Up + Review

Alas, I'm a day late and 6 books short of my goal! Reading-wise, I didn't get quite as much done as I wanted to. But I had a blast doing some of the read-a-thon challenges, and I did get four books read and reviewed, so I'll consider that a success! (Of course, I was still working on the fourth book through today...but that's just a technicality, right?)

Books I read (links to reviews):

• Barefoot Summer by Denise Hunter
• Elusive Hope by MaryLu Tyndall
• A Noble Groom by Jody Hedlund
• Wishing on Willows by Katie Ganshert (review below!)

Challenges I participated in (links to posts):

• TBR Challenge (Day 1)
• Teaser Challenge (Day 2) ~ via Twitter HERE & HERE
• Favorite Book-to-Movie Release Challenge (Day 5) ~ via Twitter
• Seasonal Challenge (Day 6)
• Twitter Synopsis Challenge (Day 7) ~ via Twitter HERE & HERE
• Song Challenge (Day 9)
• Review Challenge (Day 10)
• Spell It Out Challenge (Day 12)
• Most Anticipated 2014 Releases Challenge (Day 13)

Thanks once again to Juliababyjen's Reading Room & Danasquare for putting together this read-a-thon, and thank you to all the blog hosts! Also, thanks to my Twitter/Blogger reading pals (@LoveBeingVegan, @Abooklovingirl, and @iblog4books) for encouraging me to join this fun event!

And now for my review of Wishing on Willows...

Here's a description of the book from the author's website:

"Does a second chance at life and love always involve surrender?

A three-year old son, a struggling café, and fading memories are all Robin Price has left of her late husband. As the proud owner of Willow Tree Café in small town Peaks, Iowa, she pours her heart into every muffin she bakes and espresso she pulls, thankful for the sense of purpose and community the work provides.

So when developer Ian McKay shows up in Peaks with plans to build condos where her café and a vital town ministry are located, she isn’t about to let go without a fight.

As stubborn as he is handsome, Ian won’t give up easily. His family’s business depends on his success in Peaks. But as Ian pushes to seal the deal, he wonders if he has met his match. Robin’s gracious spirit threatens to undo his resolve, especially when he discovers the beautiful widow harbors a grief that resonates with his own.

With polarized opinions forming all over town, business becomes unavoidably personal and Robin and Ian must decide whether to cling to the familiar or surrender their plans to the God of Second Chances."

My Rating

Spring/Summer

My Review

Wishing on Willows is another heartfelt story from Katie Ganshert. The writing is simply gorgeous - poignant themes gently whispering through the pages like the breeze through a weeping willow. It was a delight to discover each new lesson and reminder shared in touching and creative ways.

The story develops at a slower pace as Robin, Ian, and Amanda (Robin's sister-in-law and roommate) face varying emotional hardships while dealing with a few emergencies along the way. I confess that Amanda often frustrated me, even while her dealings with love resonated with me. And as for Robin and Ian, the decisions they have to make as they continually grow closer together certainly escalate the tension. But the sweet moments along the way, and the way it all ends... So beautiful. The conclusion is stellar!

I really enjoyed experiencing the lovely writing, seeing what became of the hero and heroine from Wildflowers from Winter, and visiting Robin's small town (full of intriguing inhabitants and interesting dilemmas). For a story about letting go and embracing life, Wishing on Willows is a wonderful read.

*With thanks to Waterbrook Multnomah for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.*

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My Review of Though My Heart is Torn

Here's a description of the book from Waterbrook Multnomah:

"Gideon O’Riley has two wives—but he doesn’t know it.

Settling into a simple life in the majestic Blue Ridge mountains, Lonnie and Gideon O’Riley have finally found happiness after the rocky start to their marriage. The roguish bluegrass musician has fallen in love with his gentle wife and the God she serves, and Lonnie rests secure in his tenderness for her and their young son. A heartless ruse interupts their peace, bringing them back to Rocky Knob—and forces them to face the claims of Cassie Allan, a woman who says she is Gideon’s rightful wife.

As Gideon wades into the depths of his past choices, Lonnie is stunned by the revelations. She has no choice but to navigate this new path, knowing that surviving the devastating blow will take every ounce of strength she has.

While Gideon’s guilt and his bitterness towards Cassie threatens to burn up his fledgling faith, Lonnie wrestles to find the courage to trust the God who brought them together in the first place. Will their hard-earned love be able to conquer all?

Lonnie only wanted her husband’s love. Now that he belongs to another, can she surrender Gideon to a God with a bigger plan?"

My Rating

Spring

My Review

"The Cadence of Grace" series continues with more of its beautiful but isolated setting, and even more relational hardships, in Though My Heart is Torn. The title is certainly apt, as my heart was torn for various reasons over and over again as I read this sequel to Gideon and Lonnie's story (begun in Be Still My Soul).

Bischof sets the scenes with simple, yet simply lovely, descriptions of the mountains and the weather and the characters' homes. But as rough as each of those might be in turn, the truly rugged nature of this book comes in its main focus - the drama of secrets unfolding and desires being denied.

For some, this story might be a little much. Hope is scattered amid the anger and the sorrow and the loss and the heartache, but it is often overwhelmed by the latter feelings. There are many poignant scenes, yet I think the volume of them at times keeps the pace rather slow and the mind too shocked to let everything sink into the heart.

What Gideon and Lonnie (and others!) go through is utterly frustrating and painful, and I was surprised that I didn't cry more, because I definitely felt like I ought to! (It might just have been my mood, though!) At one reunion scene I did shed a tear - the secondary characters are, in general, wonderfully depicted, and that scene involving one of them touched my heart.

Even though the way this story is rounded out defines this as the middle book in the series, with another installment to follow, I still was blessed by the way the characters are given such depth. I love the understanding and the compassion Bischof's stories foster, despite the emotional whirlwind the reader has to endure!

When all is said and done, at the conclusion of Though My Heart is Torn I was left with curiosity and a big sense of trepidation at how this story will continue. I'm concerned for the characters, and my heart is torn between the possibilities. If you loved Be Still My Soul or if you are touched by the perseverance and faith of well-drawn characters through trials, consider trying out this sequel. But be prepared to endure distressing situations and the wait for the third book!

*With thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.*

Note: This book will be released April 2, 2013.

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My Review of Be Still My Soul

Here's a description of the book from the author's website:

"Gideon only ever cared about himself. Now that Lonnie is his wife, will he ever be worthy of her heart?

Night’s chill tickled her skin. Lonnie pressed her hands together and glanced up. He was even more handsome up close. Having grown up the shy, awkward daughter of Joel Sawyer, she’d hardly spoken to any boy, let alone the one who had mothers whispering warnings in their daughter’s ears and fathers loading shotguns. 

Pretty Lonnie Sawyer is shy and innocent, used to fading into the background within her family, and among the creeks and hollows of the Appalachian hills. Though her family is poor and her father abusive, she clings to a quiet faith. But when handsome ladies’ man and bluegrass musician Gideon O’Riley steals a kiss, that one action seals her fate.

Her father forces her into a hasty marriage with Gideon—a man she barely knows and does not love. Equally frustrated and confused by his new responsibilities, Gideon yearns for a fresh start, forcing Lonnie on an arduous journey away from her home in Rocky Knob.

Her distant groom can’t seem to surrender his rage at the injustice of the forced matrimony or give Lonnie any claim in his life. What will it take for Gideon to give up his past, embrace Lonnie’s God, and discover a hope that can heal their two fractured hearts?

Set in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia at the turn of the last century, Be Still My Soul weaves together the threads of yearning, hope, and redemption to form a tale that I hope will touch your heart, stir your senses, and evoke a greater understanding for the majestic God who created every hue and surface of the mountains I hold so dear."

My Rating

Spring/Summer

My Review

If you love a story with a mountain setting, romantic tension, and wonderful characterization, Be Still My Soul is a satisfying read! Gideon's and Lonnie's tale is one full of challenges and suffering - from costly mistakes, to arduous traveling, to the pain of giving second chances, as well as the humility required to accept them. But the end result of it all is full of hope.

While the Appalachian-mountains setting is enough to attract me (personally) to this book, the quality that sets it apart is the growth of its two main characters. It's beautiful, in an initially tragic way, to see them go from a terrible place to a place of tenderness and maturity. Certainly not an easy or quick journey!

Lonnie is a sweet, naive girl who clings to her faith and the love of her aunt and sister to get her through a difficult home life. Gideon is a boy who enjoys living in the moment - but his self-centered ways and his misconceptions about the realities of manhood are destined to get him into trouble. When these two young people are required to marry, the path before them is anything but smooth.

Lonnie and Gideon have no idea what it will take to walk together - both literally and figuratively - as a married couple. But when they reach the point where there seems to be no hope left, love and peace might just find them in unexpected and challenging ways. An inspiring story!

*With thanks to Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group for providing me with an ARC of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.*

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My Review of My Prince Will Come

From His Princess Ministries website:

All of Sheri Rose’s best teaching in one great book.

Refresh your soul and enjoy a journey as you draw close to your Prince…Jesus.

Filled with heartwarming stories, life changing truth and the timeless wisdom of the word of God, this inspiring book gives all of us an eternal view of who we really are: 'The Bride of Christ.' It hits the heart of every woman who wants to experience true freedom.

Topics Covered:

• Discovering your Royal Call 
• The Art of Loving One Another 
• Emotionally Free 
• Eating for Excellence 
• Getting Ready for our Lord’s return 

Great for group or personal study.

My Review

My Prince Will Come is a lovely little book - one that is what it says it is, although it seems to also reach for more than it can offer. That is to say, this book has it all: written prayers to read, encouraging and imaginative "letters from God," personal stories from the author's own life, and suggestions on how to approach everything from one's habits to one's relationships as a woman of God who is aware of eternity. But with all that it tries to tackle, it loses a bit of focus. The uniting factor is the princesses and "happily ever after" theme, which keeps everything on track. But there is some confusion even in the organization of the book: is it a daily devotional or is it a "self-help" book? If it was divided a bit differently, it could read rather like a devotional. But the four chapters with subdivisions make it possible to just approach it as a shorter non-fiction read.

Going off of the synopsis and the evident theme displayed on the cover, My Prince Will Come delivers. It didn't completely engross me for the most part, but once I finally took the time to sit down and read it, I found that there were some powerful personal testimonies and some great words of advice - especially in the chapter regarding relationships.

In some respects the book comes off as a bit shallow and "fluffy," with imaginary "love letters" from God and princess references and acronyms (etc.). But the Scripture scattered throughout, the important and helpful issues addressed, and the quality of writing keep things balanced. For those already skeptical about the book, I think there are some good points to be found if one keeps an open mind. For those who are already hooked on the premise, I think this book can be an enjoyable read - just don't let the "love letters" and prayers included substitute for studying the Scriptures for yourself and praying openly to God (a reminder which the author seems to advocate, as well).

*With thanks to Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.*

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My Review of Wildflowers from Winter

Here's a description of the book from the author's website:

"A young architect at a prestigious Chicago firm, Bethany Quinn has built a life far removed from her trailer park teen years. Until an interruption from her estranged mother reveals that tragedy has struck in her hometown and a reluctant Bethany is called back to rural Iowa. Determined to pay her respects while avoiding any emotional entanglements, she vows not to stay long. But the unexpected inheritance of farmland and a startling turn of events in Chicago forces Bethany to come up with a new plan.

Handsome farmhand Evan Price has taken care of the Quinn farm for years. So when Bethany is left the land, he must fight her decisions to realize his dreams. But even as he disagrees with Bethany’s vision, Evan feels drawn to her and the pain she keeps so carefully locked away.

For Bethany, making peace with her past and the God of her childhood doesn’t seem like the path to freedom. Is letting go the only way to new life, love and a peace she’s not even sure exists?

To read the first chapter for free, click here."

My Rating

Spring/Summer

My Review

Emotions run deep and grief is piled on thick in Wildflowers from Winter - but that makes the glimpses of growth and revelations and hope blossom all the brighter. Various types of relationships and the process to either restoring them or giving them a chance are explored within these pages, including relationships between family, friends that have drifted apart, and potential lovers who just need a little bit of understanding and encouragement. Ganshert shows how grief can lead to fragility, and yet she also shows how grief, when treated tenderly and given its due, can give way to a new season of strength and appreciation of life.

Sometimes the darkness of resentment and fear that's portrayed makes it difficult to completely sympathize with the characters. It's easy to get frustrated with Bethany for her selfish choices, and it's tempting to want to rush her through her healing process. While it would have been nice to see more of the positive side of her character, the stories from her past (told in first-person) and the obvious hurting she experiences make it hard to give up on her.

And it's beautiful to see her share the journey to healing with Robin - an old friend who is dealing with a horribly painful loss. The interactions between Robin and Bethany, and between the hero and Bethany, are oftentimes jerky - in a one step forward, two steps back sort of way - and yet the healing and the hope come in a soft but glorious fashion. This is a journey that's worth sharing with the characters, and the focus on life, as well as good coming from difficulties, is bright, indeed.

*With thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.*

Beautiful Things

The author noted on her website that this song ("Beautiful Things") offered the musical inspiration for this book. I have to say, the song fits so well, and it's so powerful! I had the opportunity to listen to the choir my sister sings with (Messiah School of the Arts - which I used to sing with, as well) perform this song this past weekend, and...wow. What a beautiful performance, and what a beautiful, hopeful message!

 

You can buy the book on Amazon.com today! And U.S. residents, be looking for a chance to win a copy of Wildflowers from Winter next week here on the blog!

The Christmas Singing

Cindy Woodsmall has a beautiful, meaningful writing style, and I have really enjoyed the books I've read by her (When the Soul Mends and the "Ada's House" series). Here are links to a couple of my reviews:

When the Soul Mends (Sisters of the Quilt, Book 3)

The Harvest of Grace (Ada's House, Book 3)

I haven't had the pleasure of reading The Christmas Singing, but from what I've read of Woodsmall's work, I'm sure it's a great Amish story. =) If you'd like to buy this book (and any other title on the Waterbrook Multnomah website) for a friend or relative (or yourself!) for Christmas, you can get 30% off and free shipping if you use the promo code CHRISTMAS11 at checkout! (Coupon expires December 20, 2011.)

Want to learn more about The Christmas Singing? You can read the first chapter HERE, and you can watch the neat trailer below!

*With thanks to Blogging for Books for this special offer!*

My Review of The Harvest of Grace

Here's a description of the book from Waterbrook Multnomah:

"Reeling from an unexpected betrayal, can Sylvia find relief from the echoes of her past…or will they shape her future forever?

Although Sylvia Fisher recognizes that most Old Order Amish women her age spend their hours managing a household and raising babies, she has just one focus—tending and nurturing the herd on her family’s dairy farm. But when a dangerous connection with an old beau forces her to move far from home, she decides to concentrate on a new start and pour her energy into reviving another family’s debt-ridden farm.

After months in rehab, Aaron Blank returns home to sell his Daed’s failing farm and move his parents into an easier lifestyle. Two things stand in his way: the father who stubbornly refuses to recognize that Aaron has changed and the determined new farmhand his parents love like a daughter. Her influence on Aaron’s parents could ruin his plans to escape the burdens of farming and build a new life.

Can Aaron and Sylvia find common ground? Or will their unflinching efforts toward opposite goals blur the bigger picture— a path to forgiveness, glimpses of grace, and the promise of love."

My Rating: Spring/Summer

My Review:

The "Ada's House" series features some powerful stories full of healing and hope and love. The Harvest of Grace is a wonderful, fitting conclusion to the Amish trilogy. While Woodsmall catches all readers up-to-date at the beginning of this book (making it possible to read this novel as a stand-alone if desired), the series really shines as a whole - with all three books coming together to look at the gem of God's love and the love between people from various angles.

Sylvia is a new character introduced in this book - a stubborn farmer determined to escape her past and prove herself by saving the Blanks' farm where she now works. Aaron is a familiar face, but in this installment the reader gets a closer look at his motivations, including his desire for acceptance. Both are hurting souls that are seeking a harvest of grace.

Other familiar friends from The Hope of Refuge (Book 1) and The Bridge of Peace (Book 2) share the spotlight in this gentle story full of flawed characters and raw pain. The romance is sweet and the lessons on honest, forgiving love are even sweeter. Woodsmall has done it again!

*With thanks to Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.*

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My Review of The Inconvenient Marriage of Charlotte Beck

Here's a description of the book from Waterbrook Multnomah:

"Unlikely romance is sometimes just an inconvenient marriage away.

Charlotte Beck may be entering adulthood, but she can’t seem to keep to her stubborn, independent spirit from bucking social protocol. Fed up with her behavior, Charlotte’s father Daniel pressures her to settle into a nice marriage despite knowing she is set on going to college. Then Daniel sees Charlotte with the handsome but annoying English astronomer Alex Hambly, and everything changes.

Though Alex and Charlotte can barely stand one another, Daniel offers them a deal they can’t refuse: if they agree to marry, he will save Alex’s family from financial ruin and grant Charlotte the freedom to go to college. Reluctantly the couple agrees, but in private they plot to annul the marriage as soon as possible.

But when Alex’s feelings change and he refuses to dissolve their contract, will Charlotte find a way out of her vows? Or will she discover that maybe this marriage isn’t so inconvenient after all?"

My Rating: Spring

My Review:

In the hilarious style of Mary Connealy, Y'Barbo knows how to tell a fun and romantic Western adventure story! From the very first chapter involving falling out of a window (and fainting in the arms of a handsome British astronomer and viscount) to the very last chapter full of promise (and playful banter), The Inconvenient Marriage of Charlotte Beck is a quick, enjoyable ride.

Broken into two parts, the first involves one misadventure after another--full of laughs and humorous encounters between Charlotte and Alex. The journey to the (eventual) altar is great fun to read about. Shows with Buffalo Bill...burning dress ribbons...inevitable kisses...you get the idea!

The second part is rather more serious in nature, although still engaging. Marriage is, after all, a serious business, and it's a lesson that Charlotte and Alex take a while to learn. I have to say that while I do appreciate the fact that Charlotte's father obviously loves her, I can understand a bit of why Charlotte longed for freedom so much. The sections regarding her father's lectures, as well as his constant controlling demeanor, did seem a little overbearing, in my opinion, but I'm glad that it was obvious he had Charlotte's best intentions at heart. Honoring one's parents is also a very serious matter, but one that comes with great blessing.

Overall, I found The Inconvenient Marriage of Charlotte Beck to be a pleasant read with a surprising depth. Definitely a great book for the long summer days!

*With thanks to Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.*

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My Review of Praying for Your Future Husband

Here's a description of the book from Waterbrook Multnomah:

"Have you ever thought about praying for your future husband?
Will it make a difference?
There's only one way to find out…

From when we were small girls, most of us dream of “The One,” our future husband. We think about what it would be like to be a bride. We wonder who that special guy is and when we'll find him. The great news is that what you do now can make a difference in your life and the life of your future husband!

Authors and good friends Robin Jones Gunn (Christy Miller series) and Tricia Goyer (author and former teen mom) believe God answers women's prayers for husbands—even husbands they may not meet for years. They invite young women to pray boldly for their future mate … while also asking God to prepare their own hearts.

In Praying for Your Future Husband, Robin and Tricia share their two vastly different experiences, including the things they did right and the mistakes they made on the path to meeting and marrying their husbands. Each chapter includes helpful Bible verses, prayers, and practical application, along with true stories of women who prayed for a husband and how God answered in remarkable ways.

God has a beautiful romance prepared for you. Prayer is the key to unlocking the love story … with your future husband and with God, the lover of your soul."

My Rating: Summer

My Review:

Before reading Praying for Your Future Husband, I thought the cover was pretty with its bold but soothing colors and the peaceful image of a girl soaking in the sun. But it wasn't until I read the book that I realized just how fitting the cover really is.

For you see, the feelings portrayed by the girl on the cover matched my own. This book caused me to look up, to soak in the comforting and life-giving Light of the Son of God. In these pages I wasn't told that I needed to pray hard for a man to enter my life. I was told that with or without a husband, I can live an abundant life filled with the hope of God's sovereignty and love for me.

Praying for Your Future Husband is a book of true love stories, mainly from the lives of author Robin Jones Gunn and Tricia Goyer. It is a book designed to encourage the reader to trust in God's plan and timing in regards to her own love story, as well as to use one's season of singleness (whether that season last for a few short years or a lifetime) to seek God.

I love how this book is organized, with chapters that include anecdotes, prayer suggestions, and discussion questions--all wrapped up in a lovely package. And I love how there are prayer suggestions not only for a girl's future husband, but also for the girl herself to grow in love for God, patience, understanding, trust, loyalty and faithfulness, strength, character, contentment, and commitment.

This is a wonderful, inspiring book that has much to offer any woman who longs to seek God's best for her life and the life of her husband, whether she is already married or hopes to be married someday. From cover to cover, Praying for Your Future Husband is beautiful!

*With thanks to Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.*

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My Review of The Charlatan's Boy

Here's a description of the book from Waterbrook Multnomah:

“I only know one man who might be able to tell me where I come from, and that man is a liar and a fraud.”

As far back as he can remember, the orphan Grady has tramped from village to village in the company of a huckster named Floyd. With his adolescent accomplice, Floyd perpetrates a variety of hoaxes and flimflams on the good citizens of the Corenwald frontier, such as the Ugliest Boy in the World act.

It’s a hard way to make a living, made harder by the memory of fatter times when audiences thronged to see young Grady perform as “The Wild Man of the Feechiefen Swamp.” But what can they do? Nobody believes in feechies anymore.

When Floyd stages an elaborate plot to revive Corenwalders’ belief in the mythical swamp-dwellers known as the feechiefolk, he overshoots the mark. Floyd’s Great Feechie Scare becomes widespread panic. Eager audiences become angry mobs, and in the ensuing chaos, the Charlatan’s Boy discovers the truth that has evaded him all his life—and will change his path forever.

My Rating: Spring/Summer

My Review:

Creative, clever, and oh-so chuckle-worthy, The Charlatan's Boy is a gift I almost didn't recognize because it came wrapped in a genre I don't usually read and one that's actually rather difficult to define. It's a-bit-of-fantasy meets Mark Twain's Huck Finn, with enough of the unexpected to turn everything on its head!

Grady and Floyd make a rather ingenious pair of hucksters, and this book is packed full of some interesting schemes for winning a crowd and making some good pocket-change in the unusual world of Corenwald. It's fun going back to the beginning to consult the map and follow their journeys across Corenwald. And those journeys are full of the wackiest and most entertaining adventures!

Many of the characters are quirky in a rather lovable way--like Short Fronie, the drovers, and Barbary. What an array of personalities! And the narrator, Grady, won me over with his big, mixed-up heart and his witty observations. Just like Huckleberry Finn, he tells it like it is from the way he sees it, and it's a pleasure to watch him discover just who in this crazy world he is.

With a great narrator, an enjoyable story, and a surprising depth, I recommend The Charlatan's Boy for all those who want an adventure with some laughs and smiles along the way!

*With thanks to Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.*

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My Review of Authentic Beauty

Here's a description of the book from Waterbrook Multnomah:

"Inside Every Young Woman is a Princess…In Search of her Prince

In a culture that mocks our longing for tender romance, in a world where fairy tales never seem to come true — do we dare hope for more? For every young woman asking that question, this book is an invitation. With refreshing candor and vulnerability, bestselling author Leslie Ludy reveals how, starting today, you can experience the passion and intimacy you long for. You can begin a never-ending love story with your true Prince. Discover the authentic beauty of a life fully set-apart for Him. Experience a romance that will transform every part of your existence and fulfill the deepest longings of your feminine heart."

My Review:

This book is full of authentic, beautiful truths, and so much to take in that it's almost overwhelming! One of my dear blogging friends, Amanda, put it so well when she said that the author and her husband leave the reader "blessedly convicted" through their writing. So true! I certainly felt convicted seeing how short I fall of truly living every moment fully for the Lord. How often I allow myself to get distracted, even while knowing how important it is to passionately guard my time with the Lord--praying, reading the Bible, and worshiping Him. But I also felt blessed to be reminded of the preciousness of the relationship I have with God.

There is so much to glean from these pages! Leslie Ludy does a wonderful job of pointing readers to God and reminding them of their need to focus always on Him. It is so easy to get sidetracked in this world, and so hard not to dwell on earthly romances (or the lack thereof). But God is so good, and there's absolutely nothing that can compare with spending time with Him and knowing Him!

One of the few things that perhaps frustrated me a little about the book was the repetition. Certainly, there is nothing wrong with repeating important points so that the reader is sure to understand the main message. However, I think the repetitiveness of specific words and phrases was a bit overdone, although this is just one reader's opinion!

Overall, though, I have been inspired by the Ludys' example. The inclusion of Eric Ludy's articles was helpful in gaining a good perspective of masculinity and how that affects femininity. And now that I've finished the book, I know I have so much I need to think about and actually apply to my life! If a book challenges you to draw closer to God and encourages you to put Him first and seek His will, then it's a book worth reading--and this book was both very challenging and wonderfully encouraging!

My Review of Two Tickets to the Christmas Ball

Here's a description of the book from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing:

"Can mysterious matchmaking booksellers bring two lonely hearts together in time for Christmas?

In a sleepy, snow-covered city, Cora Crowder is busy preparing for the holiday season. Searching for a perfect gift, a fortuitous trip to Warner, Werner, and Wizbotterdad’s (a most unusual bookshop) leads to an unexpected encounter with co-worker Simon Derrick. And the surprise discovery of a ticket for a truly one-of-a-kind Christmas Ball.

Every year, the matchmaking booksellers of the Sage Street bookshop host an enchanting, old-fashioned Christmas Ball for the romantic matches they’ve decided to bring together.

This year, will Simon and Cora discover a perfect chemistry in their opposite personalities and shared faith? Or will the matchmakers’ best laid plans end up ruining everything this holiday?"

My Rating: Spring

My Review:

What a quirky, sweet read! Part contemporary romance, part fantasy, part Christmas story, and part family drama, this book fits a lot into a novella. It's such a curious read that I got caught up in its enchantment and read it all in one day!

The main characters are well-developed, with real struggles and dilemmas. And the secondary characters are delightful. I just love the matchmakers on Sage Street, and Simon's family is so fun, especially his sister, Sandy! The characters are all so vastly different, but come together to make this one very entertaining read.

The only problem with this being a novella is that the story seems to end rather abruptly. It's wrapped well and offers satisfaction, but at the same time the ending develops quickly and leaves a lot unsaid. The issues between Cora and her family, while slightly addressed, are troubling. But in traditional fairytale fashion, there's a "happily-ever-after" that offers hope for the untold parts of the story.

If you're looking for a different holiday story--with romance, eventual reminders of the need for understanding and forgiveness, and a touch of magic--then this book is for you! And I simply have to add that this has an absolutely gorgeous cover: a hardcover with raised accents, a beautiful background scene, and great color coordination. Love it!

*With thanks to Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.*

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