The Face of Heaven (CFBA Tour)

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing The Face of Heaven Harvest House Publishers (August 1, 2012) by Murray Pura
ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Murray Pura was born and raised in Manitoba, just north of Minnesota and the Dakotas. He has published several novels and short story collections in Canada, and has been short-listed for a number of awards. His first books to be published in the United States are the inspirational works Rooted and Streams (both by Zondervan in 2010). His first novel to debut in the USA is A Bride’s Flight from Virginia City, Montana (Barbour), which was released January 2012. The second, The Wings of Morning, will be published by Harvest House on February 1. Both of these novels center around the Amish of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.

ABOUT THE BOOK

In April 1861, Lyndel Keim discovers two runaway slaves in her family's barn. When the men are captured and returned to their plantation, Lyndel and her young Amish beau, Nathaniel King, find themselves at odds with their pacifist Amish colony

Nathaniel enlists in what will become the famous Iron Brigade of the Union Army. Lyndel enters the fray as a Brigade nurse on the battlefield, sticking close to Nathaniel as they both witness the horrors of war--including the battles at Chancellorsville, Fredericksburg, and Antietam. Despite the pair's heroic sacrifices, the Amish only see that Lyndel and Nathaniel have become part of the war effort, and both are banished.

And a severe battle wound at Gettysburg threatens Nathaniel's life. Lyndel must call upon her faith in God to endure the savage conflict and to face its painful aftermath, not knowing if Nathaniel is alive or dead. Will the momentous battle change her life forever, just as it will change the course of the war and the history of her country?

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Face of Heaven, go HERE.

MY THOUGHTS SO FAR

With an intriguing premise and a compelling beginning, The Face of Heaven has been an interesting read so far (I'm about 1/3 of the way through the book). Since I took a class specifically on Civil War Era history last fall, as well as an American Military History class (from the Colonial Wars through Reconstruction) last spring, I thought this combination of the Amish and that turbulent time would make for a thought-provoking story. And it has been thought-provoking, although the storytelling hasn't completely pulled me in. We'll see how the next 2/3 goes! My full review should hopefully be posted soon.

*With thanks to Harvest House through CFBA for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion - with a full review to come!*

Re-reading vs. Re-watching: What is my problem??

Why is it that I can watch the same movie over and over again, but I have a difficult time picking up a book I've already read? I know there are people out there who talk about how they love a book so much, they've read it multiple times. And yet, I only re-read three books for the Contentment Reading Challenge 2011, and I haven't really re-read much else without being forced to do so.

So, what is my problem??

If it had to do with a loss of surprise (i.e.: I already know the whole plot, including the ending), then I wouldn't like to re-watch movies for the same reason. There are movies I've seen a gazillion times (give or take a time or two), and I still love them, despite the fact that I can quote them almost word-for-word (and annoy the people I'm watching with).

Perhaps part of it has to do with the time commitment. When I sit down to watch a movie, generally I'm devoting an hour and a half to two hours of my time. But when I sit down to read a book, it takes a lot longer, especially if I have to read between other commitments (we're talking days).

Another big part of it has to do with greediness and the book-reviewer syndrome. You know what I'm talking about, right?? There are so many great, new books coming out all the time!! And my TBR stack just keeps getting bigger and bigger... Why re-read books when you have so many new ones you haven't even read once?

*Sigh* I sound so spoiled! I mean, how blessed am I to have so much reading material??

I think if I took the time to consider what would cause me to re-read a book - and if I reminded myself how many wonderful books I have read - maybe I would be encouraged to re-read more and not be so enamored with the new. (Not that there's anything wrong with enjoying new, unread books! I just want to understand the pleasures of re-reading more.) Worth a try, I hope!

Re-watching and Re-reading

• The Favorite Scenes - You know those scenes that make you sigh with delight, or feel warm and fuzzy inside, or make you cry, or make you gasp? It's fun to re-watch and re-read scenes like those! Unfortunately, that kind of makes up most of my re-reading - going back and just re-living those favorite scenes. So while they're great and can inspire return visits to the story, I think this is one I have to beware of, because in and of themselves those scenes don't always help me re-read the whole book. The favorite scenes have to be combined with other qualities...

• The Music - In a movie, the music really can make a big difference. And it's not just the soundtracks with lyrics (although I enjoy those, too!). Consider the BBC Sherlock series, or Kate & Leopold, or Tuck Everlasting, or How to Train Your Dragon. The music sets the scene and draws you in emotionally. I think the books that I would be more inspired to re-read are the ones that have a certain "music" to them - those books that are well-written and have their own unique, engaging style that makes me feel involved in the story and intrigued by the way the author strings words together. 

• The Setting - It's the place you want to re-visit. Like beautiful Ireland in Leap Year or New Orleans in The Princess and the Frog or Radiator Springs in Cars. 

• The Dialogue - My family and I kind of have our own language, and you'd have to have seen a lot of random movies in order to get it. You see, we quote movies all the time. I'm not sure this comes off quite the same in books (after all, you're reading it, not hearing it). But still - some great dialogue can make you want to re-live the wit or the zingers or what-have-you.

• The Characters - When characters become so dear that they're like family, or so similar to yourself that they're like your best friends, or so intriguing that you just want to try harder to understand them...that's when you want to spend more time with them.

• The Theme - Sometimes you need to reminded of something important. That's one thing I love about Hallmark movies and ones like them (the tear-jerkers) - they often help me put things in perspective. Even though it isn't always fun to watch or read about things like war and losing a loved one, those sorts of stories remind us of how precious life is, and how much we need to cling to hope.

Basically, I think the stories we want to re-discover and enjoy more than once are the ones that contain a journey we need/want to take over and over again. It doesn't matter that you've read or seen it before. Each time you take the journey, you learn something new and yet find comfort in the familiarity of it. Like a good friendship, it helps you grow while offering you something stable. You know the plot and are guaranteed a happy ending (generally!), but each new viewing/reading encourages and inspires you in new ways.

At least, that's why I like watching certain movies over and over again. And I hope that this exercise will show me that some books are worth the time investment of a re-visit!

A Big Smile for the Road!

Like the Cheshire Cat, I have every reason to smile wide today - 'cause, Lord willing, we're on our way to Disneyland!

Yes, we had thought to go to Disneyland back in June, but things just didn't feel right and it turned out for the best that we didn't go. But we're giving it another try now - one more family vacation to end the summer with a bang! I don't know where the Lord will lead me in the days and months and years to come, but wherever it might be I know that things won't quite be the same as they've been during my school years, so this is kind of a bittersweet send-off to my carefree summer (the one between graduation and the rest of my life, so to speak). With God's guidance, I hope that this upcoming season will find me working for Him, wherever that might be and whatever that might entail. =)

For now, I've got a couple of books and a Kindle to keep me company down South and back, and a few days of magical fun in the sun - so I'm planning to enjoy it! 

I know I've been remiss in updating ya'll on my summer happenings... So far I've done alright with book reviewing this month, but I haven't posted any more about our Sunriver vacation or my driving experiences. I'll just cut to the chase and say that: my time with family was/is a blast; I always love Sunriver, Oregon (it's a beautiful place to be!); my uncle Andy let me practice driving in his big red diesel truck (which was pretty awesome, and we survived!); I finished my last official driving lesson (my instructor was great, and her advice about parallel parking was super helpful); and I have yet to take my driver's test (hopefully that will eventually happen). So there you go! ;)

I'm sorry I haven't had more Driving Diary posts or more vacation posts. We'll see what I end up posting in the coming weeks! I do know that the annual "End of Summer Bash" is planned for that first week in September (the 3rd through the 8th), so keep that in mind! I'm excited about the author interviews and giveaways - it should be lots of fun! 

How has summer been treating you? Are you fitting in some family-fun time this month?

My Review of Over the Edge (CFBA)

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Over The Edge Bethany House (August 1, 2012) by Mary Connealy
ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Mary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys. She is a Christy Award Finalist, a Carol Award Finalist and an IRCC Award finalist.

The Lassoed in Texas Series, Petticoat Ranch, Calico Canyon and Gingham Mountain. Petticoat Ranch was a Carol Award Finalist. Calico Canyon was a Christy Award Finalist and a Carol Award Finalist. These three books are now contained in one large volume called Lassoed in Texas Trilogy.

The Montana Marriages Series, Montana Rose, The Husband Tree and Wildflower Bride. Montana Rose was a Carol Award Finalist.

Cowboy Christmas—the 2010 Carol Award for Best Long Historical Romance, and an Inspirational Readers Choice Contest Finalist.

The Sophie's Daughters series. Doctor in Petticoats, Wrangler in Petticoats, Sharpshooter in Petticoats.

She is also the author of; Black Hills Blessing a 3-in-1 collection of sweet contemporary romances, Nosy in Nebraska, a 3-in-1 collection of cozy romantic mysteries and she's one of the three authors contributing to Alaska Brides with her Carol Award Winning historical romance Golden Days.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Seth Kincaid survived a fire in a cave, but he's never been the same. He was always a reckless youth, but now he's gone over the edge. He ran off to the Civil War and came back crazier than ever.

After the war, nearly dead from his injuries, it appears Seth got married. Oh, he's got a lot of excuses, but his wife isn't happy to find out Seth doesn't remember her. Callie has searched, prayed, and worried. Now she's come to the Kincaid family's ranch in Colorado to find her lost husband.

Callie isn't a long-suffering woman. Once she knows her husband is alive, she wants to kill him. She's not even close to forgiving him for abandoning her.

Then more trouble shows up in the form of a secret Seth's pa kept for years. The Kincaid brothers might lose their ranch if they can't sort things out. It's enough to drive a man insane--but somehow it's all making Seth see things more clearly. And now that he knows what he wants, no one better stand in his way.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Over The Edge, go HERE.

MY RATING

Spring

MY REVIEW

Mary Connealy's Wild West stories are always a good time, full of humor and excitement, as any fan of hers will tell you! And her conclusions to her trilogies (at least the ones I've read) seem to be lots of fun for fans as they bring together a whole cast of characters to whom the reader has been previously introduced.

Over the Edge is just such a story that is probably better appreciated by those readers who have read Out of Control and In Too Deep. (I've read the first but not the second in this series.) However, for those who like Connealy's entertaining style, I think it safe to say you can join the bandwagon any time and still have a good time.

This particular installment starts off by introducing a crazy-tough heroine in the shoot-out of the 19th century (or at least one intense fight!). Callie is quite the foil for Seth - even though Seth fits into his cowboy boots just fine, he's rather more sentimental in nature and fun-loving than Callie, and I found him to be a more likeable character. He's really just a danger-craving, romp-in-the-dirt boy in a man's body, although he does have his mature moments.

*Potential Spoiler*

The one thing I personally would've liked to have been told in the synopsis is that Callie has a son, Connor. Perhaps it comes as a surprise to those truly invested in the series - I'm not sure. But otherwise the reader knows right from the very first chapter about it, so I'm not sure why it isn't mentioned.

It's not that I don't like stories with a child (or children) as a main character... I think that because of where I am in life, they're just not my favorite. Maybe when I'm a mother I'll enjoy stories about mothers more!

*End of Potential Spoiler*

Overall, Over the Edge is a fun journey. It doesn't stand out as a favorite for me out of all the Mary Connealy books I've read, but it's still a good read that shares a similar theme with Deep Trouble regarding the true treasures worth fighting for in life and the dangers of greed.

*With thanks to Bethany House Publishers through CFBA for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.*

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.*

Would you consider ranking my review? Thank you!

My Review of The Dunn Deal

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

"Rumors of dirty cops, midnight meetings on Friday the thirteenth, and a forested militia masquerading as a religious cult--these and other peculiar elements complicate the senseless murder of Deputy Sheriff Baxter Dunn, son-in-law of Christine's best friend, Zora Jane Callahan.

The subject may be frightful, but our amateur sleuth tackles it with her characteristic blend of nosiness and tenacity, especially after Molly her beloved border collie is dog napped in retaliation for Christine's intrusion into matters that are clearly none of her business.

National media attention fuels the escalating conflict between Christine and the authorities. Suspicions grow concerning which of the lawmen--if any--can be trusted. When a second murder jolts the tranquil community, Christine gets tagged as the prime suspect. Where is God in this? And who will rescue Molly if Christine ends up behind bars?"

My Rating

Fall/Spring

My Review

The Dunn Deal is like Murder, She Wrote with a Christian emphasis and a dear husband tagging along for the ride. Christine Sterling is in her "golden years," so what can she contribute to a possible murder investigation that has far more dangerous implications the deeper she gets involved? Well, apparently plenty! Although it is difficult to say how much more work she makes for the local law enforcement...

The story is told from Christine's point-of-view (first person), so it's easy to either be highly amused by her antics or to just plain be annoyed. Because of some of her interactions with others (like her husband), I'm not fully on the latter end of the spectrum, but pretty close.

For a book that highly prizes the Truth, Christine doesn't seem to be above evading it in personal matters in order to protect herself from a lecture or to get away with what she wants. One of the discussion questions at the end suggests that the author made Christine to be a flawed character whose every decision should probably not be emulated...but at the same time, there seems to be mixed messages about truth when Christine constantly makes the same mistakes while the case is ultimately solved.

Christine's husband, Jesse, comes across as wishy-washy on occasion, not quite determined enough to really work through some of these issues. However, the romance between this older couple is quite wonderful. It's fun to see the protective nature and the caring ways of a couple whose honeymoon ended many years ago. Jesse is a unique and adorable hero!

As for Molly, the pet modeled on the cover, I'm torn. She is a sweet addition to the story, but her addition sometimes comes across as forced. Perhaps in Payne and Misery (the first book in this series), Molly's role is more established, so readers who then pick up this book know the connection between pet and owner. I'm just not sure. For me, Molly's part kind of gets shuffled in later on after the groundwork has already been established, and I just didn't get to experience much of a connection. That wouldn't be quite so vital if it wasn't for the fact that Christine makes some very poor decisions (in my opinion) in order to help her dog. In a book with such a strong evangelical slant, the instances where a dog's life appears to be valued more than a person's safety bothered me.

All in all, The Dunn Deal is certainly an interesting read, with plenty of discussions to listen in on and even some action to keep the tension high. For those who enjoy a good mystery starring a more mature couple, you might want to give this a try - perhaps keeping in mind the previously mentioned issues that stood out to me.

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

My Review of Prophet

Click HERE to read the book description and learn more about the author!

My Review

Epic fantasy with a "flavor" of biblical times - Prophet is certainly an imaginative and well-written addition to Christian fiction! The rigors of a prophet's journey, from the physical pain endured to the ridicule received and the heartbreak felt, are detailed in a world that is generally familiar enough to picture and yet "far out" enough to be fantastical. Dangers abound everywhere, but the One communicating through His prophet is close at hand - in control at all times and offering grace and justice in turn.

For those who aren't fantasy or biblical fiction fans, this book might be a bit difficult to traverse through. At one point Ela (the prophet) compares herself to an ambassador - so you know the story involves a fair amount of diplomacy and national/international matters. This isn't just a tale about a prophet; it's a tale about the people and nations who choose to either act on or reject the words of the Infinite. It's a grand story, but I confess that I didn't have much of a problem putting it down...and not picking it back up again much until I forced myself to finish it.

But I discovered that there is some romance woven in, and even some cute scenes involving a destroyer (think very big horse). Sometimes the interactions between the hero, the heroine, and the horse even brought to mind the teasing and the antics of Rapunzel, Flynn, and a certain horse in the Disney movie Tangled, believe it or not!

Ultimately, Prophet offers a unique take on the prophets of old, as well as a reminder of how awesome and how loving God is. The fantasy elements might make the story hard to get into for those who don't normally read fantasy, but I think the story is rewarding if you persevere.

*With thanks to Bethany House Publishers through CFBA for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.*