Andi Lassos Trouble (Circle C Stepping Stones #3) and Andi To the Rescue (#4) by Susan K. Marlow

Andi Lassos Trouble (Circle C Stepping Stones #3)

by Susan K. Marlow 

   As with all books by this author, I loved every chapter of this book. Every review I write highlighting Mrs. Marlow's historical fiction is glowing. As I have with all her other books, I highly recommend this one. It is written for younger readers who will absolutely love it. It has the perfect blend of excitement and Godly character lessons to help children learn as they read. Not only that, readers will learn about the historical setting and time period, making these books five star! Parents and teachers alike should give these books to their children to read. 
In Andi Lassoes Trouble, she learns more important lessons as she desires to enter a rodeo with her horse. The book is full of excitement from the first chapter when Andi finds out about an upcoming rodeo and wonders if she'll be allowed to enter! 
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

When the Circle C ranch decides to host a rodeo competition with two other ranches, dozens of cowboys are eager to prove they're the best riders and ropers in the valley. But they're not the only ones who want to show off their skills--Andi aims to lasso her way to the prizes, even if big brother Chad says the contest isn't for kids.

The roundup is meant to be a time for food, fun, and friendship. But before Andi can prove she's got what it takes to be a real cowgirl, the day turns dangerous. Will a friendly rodeo turn into a range war between ranchers and sheepherders? Can Andi and her family keep their neighbors--and themselves--safe?

Andi to the Rescue (Circle C Stepping Stones #4)

by Susan K. Marlow

   As with all books by this author, I loved every chapter of this book. Every review I write highlighting Mrs. Marlow's historical fiction is glowing. As I have with all her other books, I highly recommend this one. It is written for younger readers who will absolutely love it. It has the perfect blend of excitement and Godly character lessons to help children learn as they read. Not only that, readers will learn about the historical setting and time period, making these books five star! Parents and teachers alike should give these books to their children to read.
Andi to the Rescue is so exciting with the perfect level of danger for young readers. Readers both young and old will find this book interesting. Even I as an adult enjoyed reading this book. The way this author writes is so talented that although written for younger readers, adults can enjoy the books almost as much. Yet again, Susan K Marlow weaves character lessons into this exciting work of historical fiction to benefit young minds even more.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

This is so embarrassing. Andi's teacher, Miss Hall, is sick--and Mother is the substitute teacher. What will Andi's friends think?

But it turns out embarrassment is the last thing Andi needs to worry about when two outlaws kidnap Andi and her mother after school in a case of mistaken identity! They can't even tell the kidnappers a mistake has been made without putting themselves in even more danger.

Now they're being held in a remote cabin until Mother can teach the man in charge how to read--and he's willing to go to any length to make it happen. Andi must escape and find help. But can she lead a rescue party back to Mother before the outlaws take their new teacher--and disappear forever?

review of The Melody of the Soul by Liz Tolsma

When I saw that talented author Liz Tolsma had written another book, I was thrilled. As with the author's other literary works, this book is set in world-war two Europe. Again, like with the other novels by Liz, I was engrossed from the first chapter. I loved the musical aspect to this book. I liked how Anna continued with her musical talent despite the threats from the Nazi leadership. Whether or not you have previously read the author's other books, you will fall in love with this new book. 

I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. 

Anna has one chance for survival-and it lies in the hands of her mortal enemy.

It's 1943 and Anna Zadok, a Jewish Christian living in Prague, has lost nearly everything. Most of her family has been deported, and the Nazi occupation ended her career as a concert violinist. Now Anna is left to care for her grandmother, and she'll do anything to keep her safe-a job that gets much harder when Nazi officer Horst Engel is quartered in the flat below them.

Though musical instruments have been declared illegal, Anna defiantly continues to play the violin. But Horst, dissatisfied with German ideology, enjoys her soothing music. When Anna and her grandmother face deportation, Horst risks everything to protect them.

Anna finds herself falling in love with the handsome officer and his brave heart. But what he reveals might stop the music forever.

Best-selling novelist Liz Tolsma is the author of several World War II novels and prairie romance novellas. She also works as a freelance editor. She lives in a semirural area of Wisconsin with her husband and two daughters. Her son serves with the US Marines. All of their chidlren came to them through international adoption. Her other passions include walking, gardening, camping, and reading.

Find out more about Liz at http://www.liztolsma.com.

Deadly Proof (Atlanta Justice #1) by Rachel Dylan

Deadly Proof (Atlanta Justice #1)

by Rachel Dylan 

Riveting new series offers legal suspense with a romantic twist

In the biggest case of her career, attorney Kate Sullivan is tapped as lead counsel to take on Mason Pharmaceutical because of a corporate cover-up related to its newest drug. After a whistleblower dies, Kate knows the stakes are much higher than her other lawsuits.

Former Army Ranger turned private investigator Landon James is still haunted by mistakes made while serving overseas. Trying to forget the past, he is hired by Kate to look into the whistleblower’s allegation and soon suspects that the company may be engaging in a dangerous game for profit. He also soon finds himself falling for this passionate and earnest young lawyer.

Determined not to make the same mistakes, he’s intent on keeping Kate safe, but as the case deepens, it appears someone is willing to risk everything—even murder—to keep the case from going to trial.

This is a new genre for me, but I'm really enjoying it! Deadly Proof is definitely as suspenseful as described. The characters are interesting and developed and the reader will find it hard to put down this book once begun! Personally, I didn't care for the amount of romance included in the book; I think a little romance goes a long way in literature (and film!) and find that it is usually overdone in contemporary fiction. However, I know most readers will not agree with me concerning this topic and will find Deadly Proof the perfect suspenseful mystery/romance! 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

Mercy Triumphs: A Contemporary Novel by Jana Kelley

Mercy Triumphs: A Contemporary Novel

by Jana Kelley 
Although this is the second in a series by the author, and I hadn't read the preceding book I found this novel easy to understand and interesting as well. From the opening chapter, I was drawn into the world of these three women: Mia, Halimah and Rania. One can tell that the author knows what she is writing about. In truth, she grew up in Southeast Asia and during her adult life has lived in Sudan and the Middle East for thirteen years! I have greatly enjoyed studying about the history and culture of Africa and the Middle East and although I have never been there, I found that the cultural details were perfectly accurate in this book! Thus, this book is more than a novel. It is a look into the life of an American woman in the middle east and also the life of native Sudanese living as Christians amongst their Muslim family and friends. For literary quality, there are a little too many details however I found these necessary for teaching the reader about the setting and cultural differences.

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

Three women. Three impossible circumstances. One merciful God. Mia, an American Christian, has lived in Sudan so long that persecution, harassment, and danger have become commonplace for her. Her tough outer shell threatens to harden her heart while her newly Christian friends, Halimah and Rania, former Muslims, are forced to live in exile outside Sudan. All three quickly discover that escaping danger in one place only means facing even greater challenges elsewhere. As God's mercy becomes evident in their lives, they must choose whether or not to offer mercy to those who don't deserve it. Third in a trilogy, Mercy Triumphs opens the reader's eyes to modern-day persecution and the life of Muslims in Sudan. Based on real-life events, Mercy Triumphs reveals some of the struggles Christians face when living under Islamic law. The reader will be inspired to pray for new believers, those who are persecuted for their faith, and even for the salvation of the persecutors.

Grounded Hearts book review

Grounded Hearts

by Jeanne M. Dickson 

I was excited to get this book to read and review because I absolutely love books set in World War 2. I am not a big fan of romance novels (partially because I don't believe them helpful or edifying for the reader's life) but in the past I have discovered a few romances set in World War 2 which I have enjoyed. Grounded Hearts is set in Ireland and the story revolves around an Irish midwife, Nan and a wounded RAF pilot whom she gives shelter to. However, the romance was badly done. A good romance novel weaves romance with purpose, making the romance the result of many interesting events. However, this book focuses on the romance, with the excitement and adventure taking a secondary position.             Besides, the romance is pretty intense and cheap. From the second chapter, the woman is attracted to this wounded pilot and is tempted in various ways by his presence in her home. The author's motives in including every thought and temptation experienced by Nan is questionable. 

Although this is not a terribly sinful romance, it still is cheap. When one reads a book, one doesn't want to know that the heroine had every possible thought and temptation about the wounded soldier in her home. We want to admire the woman in the story. We want powerful characters who overcome sin and temptation and eventually discover they love each other. Not two humans attracted to each other simply....because. This is probably a confusing review. On a spiritual aspect, Nan is Catholic and there is a strong emphasis on how her sins (even of thoughts) have to be confessed to the Priest (who is not the best character, by the way). There is a good picture of how Catholicism is not true redemption and salvation from sin. Note how I am not expecting the main characters to be perfect, Catholic or Christian. I want to emphasize this. But either way, I would expect stronger characters in a book of this sort. For instance, this story would make a terrible movie. Every scene would be either of sexual temptation (thoughts or actions) or kissing scenes. Thankfully nothing worse, but still. Seriously. Who wants to watch such a story? There is some action, but it is useless when paired with such romance.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

In the midst of World War II, Ireland has declared herself neutral. Troops found on Irish soil must be reported and interned, no matter which side they are fighting for. When midwife Nan O’Neil finds a wounded young Canadian pilot at her door, she knows she’s taking a huge risk by letting him in. Not only is she a widow living alone, but if caught harboring a combatant, she’ll face imprisonment.

Still, something compels Nan to take in “flyboy” Dutch Whitney, an RAF pilot whose bomber has just crashed over County Clare. While she tends to his wounds and gives him a secret place of refuge, the two begin to form a mutual affection—and an unbreakable bond.

But Nan has another secret, one that has racked her with guilt since her husband’s death and made her question ever loving again. As Nan and Dutch plan his escape, can he help restore her faith?

The Maggie Bright: A Novel of Dunkirk by Tracy Groot book review

The Maggie Bright: A Novel of Dunkirk

by Tracy Groot

    With the new Dunkirk film being released this year, this book has been published at the perfect time! I personally did not know much about Dunkirk before reading this book from popular Christian author Tracy Groot. As with much historical fiction, this book gives a good perspective on the actual events, opening the reader's eyes allowing him to experience the events through reading. This book was difficult to begin. The writing style was at first confusing as were the characters. However, almost magically, three chapters into the book I was engrossed and couldn't put the book down. Maybe it was just me, but more likely the author had a hard time beginning the story. Not to be negative, but the same situation repeats itself for the last two chapters of the book. They are just a little confusing with too much action and to many conclusions in a short amount of pages.

Nevertheless, negative points aside, this book was a pleasure to read!

   I was worried that it would be simply a romance with little historical quality. I was happily surprised to find that the romance is tastefully added to this novel without taking over the tale. I mean, there is no kissing. For a world war 2-based book (or movie for that matter!) this is phenomenal. Not to mention a nice change. The story in this book focuses more on action and character development. There are two different perspectives: Clare Child's on the homefront of England, and a small remnant of the British division over near Dunkirk (and finally, at Dunkirk). Unfortunately, the latter group was hard to really ''get to know'' in this book. The author tended to over do it with English sayings and jokes. She also did this with Clare Childs in a sense, which showed the author has a more televised understanding of English people.

But I still enjoyed this book. It really captured the setting and mood of the time and location.

I hate to be negative again, since this was a pleasant book but I must add that this is not an intensely Christian book. In fact I was a little confused by the point of the author on that subject. I gather that she was trying to appease both Catholics and Protestants in this book. The main character comes to a good realization of God's sovereignty but I was left a little bewildered nevertheless.

  In short, this book was not the most well-written and thought-out yet it captured my attention and interest for it's majority. Most of the characters were very realistic and enjoyable as was the setting. The romance was tasteful. This book is worth reading as a work of clean, accurate historical fiction.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

England, 1940. Clare Childs knew life would change when she unexpectedly inherited the "Maggie Bright"--a noble fifty-two-foot yacht. In fact, she's counting on it. But the boat harbors secrets. When a stranger arrives, searching for documents hidden onboard, Clare is pulled into a Scotland Yard investigation that could shed light on Hitler's darkest schemes and prompt America to action. Across the Channel, Hitler's "Blitzkrieg" has the entire British army in retreat with little hope for rescue at the shallow beaches of Dunkirk. With time running out, Churchill recruits civilian watercraft to help. Hitler is attacking from land, air, and sea, and any boat that goes might not return. Yet Clare knows "Maggie Bright" must answer the call--piloted by an American who has refused to join the war effort until now and a detective with a very personal motive for exposing the truth.The fate of the war hinges on this rescue. While two men join the desperate fight, a nation prays for a miracle.

Courageous Love: An Andrea Carter Book by Susan K Marlow

Courageous Love: An Andrea Carter Book

by Susan K Marlow

I have honestly looked forward to this new book from Susan Marlow the entire year! It is so delightful to look forward to an author's new works as they are published! I should have recorded a video of two of my friends' reactions when I showed them my copy of this new book. The excitement was enough to advertise how beloved these books are to us! During the same week, I also had sisters in my household begging to read my copy. We also had to have a pact not to tell eachother how the book ended for fear of spoiling the surprise for the other readers!

As I have said in my previous reviews of this author's books, she is an unusually excellent writer! The Andrea Carter series has the quality of the beloved Little House series. Mrs. Marlow is one of the best Christian authors I know of. To add more value to that statement, I have read and reviewed a variety of Christian historical fiction and novels for adults as well as children. I love Susan Marlow's style of writing and the thought she puts into each of her books. I am always interested through every chapter of every book she produces. Although I'm an adult I looked forward to the free time I would have on the weekends to read the next chapters of Courageous Love! In this final book in the series, Andrea Carter is the same girl we have watched grow up through the books. Of course, at age seventeen she is becoming a woman and must deal with different issues than the previous books. I will not give away any of the story but I loved, absolutely loved Andrea Carter grown-up! I am impressed by how the author was able to continue Andi Carter's adventurous and impulsive spirit while allowing her to becoming a lovely young woman. I didn't want this story to end. Needless to say, I am likewise saddened that this is the last book in the series! I definitely hope the author will continue to write such wonderful historical fiction!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

Andrea Carter is finally pulling her own weight on the Circle C Ranch she loves. The only thing she loves more than helping to run the ranch is spending time racing and stunt-riding on her horse Shasta, with the help of wrangler Riley Prescott. Little does she know that when she and Riley stumble onto a mysterious cut in the fence around her brother's prize calves, life is about to get far more exciting--and dangerous.

A cryptic warning tied around a brick crashes through the window at a family party. Then cattle begin to die. When the horse barn catches fire, Andi knows this is more than just coincidence. But who is trying to hurt her family--and why? Evidence begins to point to criminals from her brother Justin's past who want revenge. But that discovery may be too late to keep Andi and her brother's family out of danger.Now Riley is her only hope of rescue. Can he find her before she disappears from the Circle C forever? Can she keep everyone else safe until then?

The fourth volume in the Circle C Milestones quartet, Courageous Love is high on action, danger, and drama, and full of appealing characters readers love. Andi's final adventure, sparked with a little romance, is sure to please Marlow's legions of loyal readers who want a happy ending for this frontier heroine.

review of the new Ben-Hur by Carol Wallace

As one of the bestselling stories of all time, Lew Wallace's Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ has captivated and enthralled millions around the world--both in print and on the big screen. Now Lew's great-great-granddaughter has taken the old-fashioned prose of this classic novel and breathed new life into it for today's audience.

Coming to theaters in August 2016 as Ben-Hur, a major motion picture from MGM and Paramount studios, the story follows Judah Ben-Hur, a Jewish nobleman whose childhood friend Messala betrays him. Accused of trying to murder the new Roman governor in Jerusalem, Judah is sentenced to the galley ships and vows to seek revenge against the Romans and Messala. But a chance encounter with a carpenter from Nazareth sets Judah on a different path.

Rediscover the intrigue, romance, and tragedy in this thrilling adventure.

Also included: the inspiring story-behind-the-story of Lew Wallace--Indiana lawyer, author, and Civil War general.

You may have heard of or seen the new version of the famous Ben-Hur movie. Well, to go along with the film is a new version of the classic book itself! This is the classic story which inspired and made the Charlton Heston film we all love. Now, years later, the original author's granddaughter Carol Wallace presents an updated version for today's readers. 

I have not seen the film- I am sure it is interesting to watch although I see no need for a remake of one of the best films of all time. Also, I think it sad that Carol Wallace said she was never able to get into her grandfather's literary masterpiece. I am disappointed- greatly disappointed- with the dumbing-down of that original Ben Hur into this far TOO easy-to-read version. This edition is like the typical Christian romances written recently. The reader's brain does no work as he reads the tale; the focus of the book is on emotions and thoughts and romance with no literary value. There are no thought-provoking aspects this book. I am sorry to be so critical but I don't understand the literary weakness of readers today! We need to expand our minds and read older literature. One thing I found interesting which the author Carol Wallace pointed our about the original book is that Lew Wallace spent much of the book describing the surroundings and settings of the Middle Eastern region in Ben Hur because Lew Wallace's 1900's readers wouldn't have known too much about that remote and mysterious lands. In contrast, today's readers have seen hundreds of pictures/videos of those lands and perhaps even visited them! So the majority of the lengthy descriptions would be unwelcome for today's readers. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

Review of the book The Things We Knew by Catherine West

The Things We Knew

by Catherine West 

To be honest, I requested this book to review because of the cover. Isn't it beautiful? The font, the nautical style, the lighthouse image...this is a very well designed book!  However, the content doesn't meet the quality of the cover. The story is supposed to be Christian but I feel it is just a murder mystery romance without anything offensive. Of course I appreciate this but was hoping the book had more eternal value in it. I love it when Christian novels pack in a spiritual message or a character growthi which sets the reader to thinking and examining their own life. I have read some Christian fiction which fits this category and this paperback wasn't one of those books. Besides, the story itself is morbid. The whole mystery thing involves discovering how the mother was killed and the revealed conclusion if not gory involves an adulterous relationship....I don't know why readers would want to read more about what is already too common around us. 

   As for the literary quality of this novel, it is not outstanding. Rather, it falls into the easy-read category of most fiction of our era. Nothing about this book expands the mind or challenges the brain and/or heart. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. 

After her mother's death twelve years ago, Lynette Carlisle watched her close-knit family unravel. One by one, her four older siblings left their Nantucket home and never returned. All seem to harbor animosity toward their father, silently blaming him for their mother's death. Nobody will talk about that dreadful day, and Lynette can't remember a bit of it.

But when next-door neighbor Nicholas Cooper returns to Nantucket, he brings the past with him. Once her brother's best friend and Lynette's first crush, Nick seems to hiding things from her. Lynette wonders what he knows about the day her mother died and hopes he might help her remember the things she can't.

But Nick has no intention of telling Lynette the truth. Besides the damage it might cause his own family, he doesn't want to risk harming the fragile friendship between him and the woman he once thought of as a kid sister.

As their father's failing health and financial concerns bring the Carlisle siblings home, secrets begin to surface—secrets that will either restore their shattered relationships or separate the siblings forever. But pulling up anchor on the past propels them into the perfect storm, powerful enough to make them question all they ever believed in.

My review of the book Like a River from Its Course by Kelli Stuart

Like a River from Its Course

by Kelli Stuart

I absolutely love reading books on the history of World War Two, whether they be biographies, autobiographies or worthwhile fiction. 
Thus, I was so excited when I had the opportunity to read and review Kelli Stuart's new book Like A River From Its Course! 
I was captivated from the first chapter! The (Ukrainian/German) world presented by this talented author was engrossing and accurate. I have read enough autobiographies of even the specific events such as Babi Yar which are highlighted in this book to know that the author writes with historical accuracy. One of the things that I love and am amazed by when reading this book is the author's ability to present the first person viewpoints of several characters without confusing the reader or detracting from the excitement of the story. I found it very easy to follow, in fact enhanced by the various persons viewpoints. Surprisingly, it wasn't even difficult to remember each individuals' name- although they were Ukrainian or German. I am delighted with the talent and time Kelli Stuart has undoubtedly invested in this novel. 
The character development was suberb. The story was the perfect balance of excitement, sadness and victory while staying true to historical facts. 
Without revealing some main twists in the story, I did love the romantic relationships. I found them quite unique and interesting. 
So, do read this book and follow the lives of Maria Ivanova, Ivan Kyrilovich, Luda and Frederick Hermann and gain a picture into what it would have been like to live- or die- during the time of World War Two. 

Based on true stories gathered from fifteen years of research and interviews with Ukrainian World War II survivors, Like a River from Its Course is a story of love, war, heartache, forgiveness, and redemption

My only surprise/criticism was that this novel didn't highlight salvation like I thought it would. There was nothing bad in this book and it definitely doesn't endorse wrong morals, but it's kind of basic and pleasing to a variety of readers which can be good in some ways. The Christianity underlined in this book is Catholicism I believe. But that portion was good and emphasized the need for faith. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. Thank you!

Book review: The Last Ride by Susan K Marlow

The Last Ride 
by Susan K. Marlow

It was with excitement that I welcomed the latest book from Susan K. Marlow in her popular Andrea Carter series! Although an adult, I find Susan's books quite interesting and -to my joy- wholesome. This combination is sadly lacking in current Christian fiction for any ages, so I highly recommend these books. Author Susan Marlow has developed the Andrea Carter series from the initial Circle C Beginnings books, to Circle C Adventures and now at Circle C Milestones. Any reader will find themselves interested in the family featured in these books, particularly horse-loving, spunky Andrea Carter! I personally love how each book, especially the latter few have dealt with key issues in growing up: forgiveness, pride, faith and more. In The Last Ride Andi (Andrea) is now a young lady of 16 and must learn to balance her childhood self with the woman she should be. She most importantly must learn to forgive, especially in a very difficult situation which you will only discover by reading this exciting book! 

An important note: although part of a series, this book would also be great on its own! The author writes so clearly that it doesn't take much effort to understand the setting and characters! 

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. 

More about the book: 

Andi's newest adventure may be more than she can handle--even with her family's help

Andrea Carter is turning sweet 16 and life could not be better. She's about to finish school, her sister Melinda is getting married, and her older brother Justin has a new baby to spoil. There will be plenty of time to work with the colt of her treasured palomino horse, Taffy, and best of all, Andi will finally get to work full-time for the ranch she loves.

There's just one problem: a city-slicker cousin named Daniel. Left there by his father, with a cryptic warning that New York City life has done damage to the young man's character, Daniel wants nothing to do with the ranch. He ignores Andi's lessons, walks away from responsibility, wrecks valuable equipment, and even runs away to San Francisco.

The Carter family is in a frenzy trying to keep Daniel under control. When Andi discovers a horrifying secret about him, he forces her to stay silent. But all that changes when Daniel's actions put lives in danger. Andi's anger over her loss threatens to destroy not only Andi but her entire Circle C world. Can anyone break through the wall around Andi's bitter heart and help her find healing?

Review of: The Body Under the Bridge (Father Gilbert Mystery #1) by Paul McCusker

The Body Under the Bridge (Father Gilbert Mystery #1)

by Paul McCusker 

To start at the very beginning, I requested this book to review because I know Paul McCusker as the script writer for a movie made by our friends. I was curious to see what his writing style was. My conclusion? Mr. McCusker's writing style is quite good and engaging. Almost too engaging at times! This book was hard to put down; easy to follow and captivating.
   However, the content was rather disturbing. Father Gilbert is the main character in this mystery and as a priest he is against demons and the occult practices encouraging them. Thus, he is acutely aware of the demonic forces around him and has several out of the body experiences/ visions. I will put it out there that I love Sherlock Holmes mysteries and have always read exciting books. However, this book was so creepy I could not read it at night. Even so, I had nightmares following the reading of this book which were incredibly unsettling and took prayer and reading of my Bible to dispel! And I am a grown woman. This led me to question the godliness of using such a topic as demonic oppression in a book. I wonder if this somehow brings glory and attention to demons? I am not an expert in these matters, but I certainly did not feel like this book brought me closer to God!

    Which brings me to the bothersome fact that Paul McCusker himself isn't the Christian that I thought he was! My belief was that he was Baptist. After all, he works for Baptist companies- correct?
However, if you read this article and any others you find online, you will see that he grew up in a Baptist church and publicly became Catholic in 2007! I am not unkind to Catholics but according to Scripture you are either a New Testament believer in Christ (Christian) or you are Catholic, Jewish, Mormon, etc. etc. etc. I believe it is possible to become saved in any of those churches, but if you are truly saved you will not stay in those churches but join a bible-believing church.
In The Body Under the Bridge, there were several confusing topics which are now made clear under the knowledge that Paul McCusker is Catholic. The Lord's Supper is mentioned as a sacrament with the bread turning into Christ's flesh and the wine into His blood. Later, Thomas Cranmer is really put down. Now I don't know much about Thomas Cranmer's spiritual state, but he helped with the English Reformation and thought ill of the Pope and that is exactly why he is put down in The Body Under the Bridge!
In conclusion, I am not trying to open up an argument with Catholics. You may read this book if you like. My goal is to give a head's-up to evangelical Christians about the background of this book and Paul McCusker! If you are going to read this book, regardless of your religion (of course I read a variety of books myself!), I want to put a disclaimer that this book is, as mentioned, intense, rather gory and unsuitable for readers under age 14! The priest also has to overcome temptation and lustful thoughts at several portions which I didn't find appropriate for younger readers either.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. Thanks!

A former Scotland Yard detective, Father Gilbert knows about death. But, now a priest of a modest Anglican church in the small town of Hailsham, he didn't expect it to show up like this--in the suicide of a man who threw himself off the church tower, and in the discovery of a two-hundred-year-old body beneath an ancient bridge.

The deaths are linked. The mummified corpse under the bridge, a murder victim, reignites a centuries-old battle between two local families--the Todds and the aristocratic Hayshams. Then both David Todd and Lord Haysham begin to act strangely, fearful for reasons they won’t explain.

When Lord Haysham is murdered, David Todd is the prime suspect. But Todd is maniacal, claiming great forces of evil are at work. An entire history of violence and depravity begins to emerge, interweaving the history of several local families with a secret occult society that engages in Black Masses. Has the Society emerged again

Fictional book review: I Hope You Dance by Beth Moran

I Hope You Dance

by Beth Moran 

This new novel from author Beth Moran is very well written. Also, it captures the reader's interest from the first chapter with its humor and relatability. The book was fast-paced and interesting to read; one definitely understood each and ever character and didn't have a hard time following the tale.
Personally, I wasn't impressed with the story because I found that it lacked depth. Even if viewed as a non-Christian title, it seemed to lack purpose and meaning. The struggles the main character, Ruth Henderson went through were very real and understandable but although several of them were resolved I didn't feel like she had to do much at all. She must have been under much emotional stress yet I felt like there wasn't a moment or even a crescendo of change in her heart and mind. There is one aspect- friendship- which changes. Ruth does become more open to friendship. Just overall, this book has no impact. It has some chuckle-worthy moments and is well-written but there is really no Spiritual depth or basic growth or emotional value attached. Her daughter seems to advance more than she does. However, if this is considered a Christian novel I really am surprised as there is no moment of defining change. Everything just melds into the next....

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. 
. . 

A Cup of Dust: a Novel of the Dust Bowl by Susie Finkbeiner

A Cup of Dust: a Novel of the Dust Bowl

by Susie Finkbeiner

   A gripping story; believable and heart-wrending, A Cup of Dust is set in Oklahoma, 1935. The authro, Susie Finkbeiner does an extraordinary job of melding fiction with history- the result, a realistic account of a young girl growing up in the difficult time of the dust bowl.  This is such an interesting book for those -like me-who have never studied this difficult time period of the American west. The author brings it vividly to life; as I read this book I felt the pain and burden of the living in such a dying region. Simultaneously, as if that era wasn't hard enough, the author weaves a different tale concerning the young girl Pearl. Your interest will be captured early on in the book as confusing and mysterious characters start coming on the scene and disrupting Pearl Spence's relatively happy life with her loving family. Only reading this book will reveal the truth behind this sweet young girl's existence....From start to finish, author Susie Finkbeiner presents a work which will touch your heart. I especially admire how the themes of love and loyalty were played out- excellent job!

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion- thank you!

Where you come from isn’t who you are
Ten-year-old Pearl Spence is a daydreamer, playing make-believe to escape life in Oklahoma’s Dust Bowl in 1935. The Spences have their share of misfortune, but as the sheriff’s family, they’ve got more than most in this dry, desolate place. They’re who the town turns to when there’s a crisis or a need—and during these desperate times, there are plenty of both, even if half the town stands empty as people have packed up and moved on.
Pearl is proud of her loving, strong family, though she often wearies of tracking down her mentally impaired older sister or wrestling with her grandmother’s unshakable belief in a God who Pearl just isn’t sure she likes.
Then a mysterious man bent on revenge tramps into her town of Red River. Eddie is dangerous and he seems fixated on Pearl. When he reveals why he’s really there and shares a shocking secret involving the whole town, dust won’t be the only thing darkening Pearl’s world.
While the tone is suspenseful and often poignant, the subtle humor of Pearl’s voice keeps A Cup of Dust from becoming heavyhanded. Finkbeiner deftly paints a story of a family unit coming together despite fractures of distress threatening to pull them apart

A Chameleon, a Boy, and a Quest: A Boy Named Mu, an African Journey, and You by J. A. Myhre

A Chameleon, a Boy, and a Quest:

A Boy Named Mu, an African Journey, and You by J. A. Myhre

   This delightful and unique chapter book for children is set in a fictional region of Africa. Not only is it fantastical and imaginative, it is also informative as the author knows African culture and daily life firsthand and manages to weaves those truths into this book from the first chapter to the last! Children of all ages will be excited and mesmerized by this fascinating tale about  a ten-year old African boy named Mu. The story is easy to get into since it begins immediately with a twist....on his way to get the daily water supply (a job usually given to girls but forced upon poor Mu by his inconsiderate and unloving great uncle), the boy meets a chameleon, and not only a regular chameleon but a talking one! Since this is in the first chapter, the reader can't help but want to continue this unusual tale! I was pleased with the writing quality of this book. Unlike most contemporary Christian authors, J.A Myhre writes with quality and strength. The vocabulary within this book is excellent which will help expand the minds of your children. The story itself will also invigorate their imagination and spark interesting questions and discussion. 

 I was given this book by Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest opinion. Thanks!

More about the book....

Mu, a ten-year-old orphan, has lived his entire life in the heart of Africa. For as long as he can remember he has served in the household of a great-uncle where he is unloved and ignored. In his drudgery-filled life, Mu has little hope of happiness, and little hope that anything will ever change.

But one day, everything does change. On his way to draw water one morning, Mu is astonished when a chameleon greets him by name and announces that they will embark on a quest together. And what a quest it turns out to be! Mu faces danger and finds unexpected allies as they journey through a fascinating and ever-changing landscape.

A Chameleon, a Boy, and a Quest blends magical realism with a compelling story. The exciting story line combines an orphan’s journey to find a home with the plight of child soldiers and the dangers of the Ebola virus and, along the way, highlights universal themes of integrity, loyalty, faith, and love. Written by long-time medical missionary J. A. Myrhe, the artful story is laced with subtle gospel themes and handles cross-cultural issues with grace and sensitivity. Kids will encounter good and evil and learn the truth about hope, happiness, and what it means to be human in this page-turning first book in a new series.

—A page-turning children’s action and adventure story set in a fictional African land
—Blends magical realism and compelling storytelling with gospel themes to draw kids gently into the truth
—Deals with real-life but (seemingly) faraway themes like the plight of orphans, the duties of child soldiers, and the reality of the Ebola virus
—Written by a long-time medical missionary to Africa who handles cross-cultural issues with grace, sensitivity, and love

The Methusaleh Project: a novel by Rick Barry

The Methusaleh Project by Rick Barry 

    This novel is a fairly well-written work by author and historian Rick Barry. When I requested it to read and review, I had a vague idea of the book. In fact, my suppositions of the story turned out to be completely wrong. Contrary to my first impression, this novel is not entirely set in world war two time period, but is a contemporary fictional novel! Yet... the story does begin in the 1940s and with the same hero as in the 21st century! Yes, you guessed it. 'Tis an unusual science-fiction-esque book in which the hero never dies and never ages. The main character, American Roger Greene is captured by Germans after a bomb raid he was conducting on Germany. Eventually, a wacko of a German performs an unusual operation on Roger which alters his cells, rendering his cells able to rejuvenate and rebuild. The result? Roger lives on and on...and by the time he, through an exciting and harrowing series of events returns to America in 2015, he still looks about 24. Since there is a girl involved, you can assume there is some romance which I found specifically awkward since the couple can't possibly get married...What girl in her right mind wants to marry an ageless man? Anyway, as you may have guessed I am not a fan of this book. I absolutely love world war two stories, especially biographies but also some historical fiction. However, I draw the line at science fiction! There are so many good stories, why waste time on books such as this? I have read a couple of fantasy books which I found interesting as well as a Christian futuristic which I found fascinating because, well, anything can happen in the future. But to write science fiction about world war two? Nuh uh, folks! Don't do it. I will say one thing: although the author doesn't have the talent of classic authors of the past (such as Jules Verne which makes his 20,000 leagues under the sea passing good), he did have some good ideas for this novel of his which I applaud him for. There were some tense situations which were fun to read. Surprisingly, a second thing I must thank the author for is the sane amount of romance as well as the Christian principles the hero upholds! This alone actually makes this book worth reading over all the overly-romantic Christian novels out there! 

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. Thanks!

More about the book...
Nazi scientists started many experiments. One never ended. 

Roger Greene is a war hero. Raised in an orphanage, the only birthright he knows is the feeling that he was born to fly. Flying against the Axis Powers in World War II is everything he always dreamed--until the day he's shot down and lands in the hands of the enemy. 

When Allied bombs destroy both his prison and the mad genius experimenting on POWs, Roger survives. Within hours, his wounds miraculously heal, thanks to those experiments. The Methuselah Project is a success--but this ace is still not free. Seventy years later, Roger hasn't aged a day, but he has nearly gone insane. This isn't Captain America--just a lousy existence only made passable by a newfound faith. The Bible provides the only reliable anchor for Roger's sanity and his soul. When he finally escapes, there's no angelic promise or personal prophecy of deliverance, just confusion. It's 2015--and the world has become an unrecognizable place. 

Katherine Mueller--crack shot, genius, and real Southern Belle--offers to help him find his way home. Can he convince her of the truth of his crazy story? Can he continue to trust her when he finds out she works for the very organization he's trying to flee? 

Thrown right into pulse-pounding action from the first page, readers will find themselves transported back in time to a believable, full-colored past, and then catapulted into the present once more. The historical back-and-forth adds a constantly moving element of suspense to keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Book Review: Through Waters Deep by Sarah Sundin

   Since I love anything vintage and am interested in world war 2 biographies, movies, and more I was delighted when I discovered author Sarah Sundin's books a little while ago. Since, I have quickly ''devoured'' every single book she has published and eagerly look forward to reading more of her works!
Through Waters Deep is the first book in a new series by the author! Exciting, isn't it? Plus, this series features the Navy- a new and fascinating venture for the author I'm sure! 
On a side note: I read this book this July 2015 and it was a perfect book for that month and season. :) 

First, I just want to say that Sarah Sundin does an absolutely amazing job in researching her settings. One would think that she knew every detail of what she wrote about it. Of course I am not a world war 2 veteran, yet I have read enough historical accounts to be alert to any mistakes an author of fiction might make. A fascinating touch in Through Waters Deep is that the author delved into a new realm for her...mystery! Throughout the book, the main character Mary along with the reader struggles to discover who the local saboteur could be! I found this an interesting twist. 
As always, Sarah Sundin writes with heart and vigour, making the reader both enjoy and benefit from reading each chapter. 
This book is set right before world war 2 actually! The end of the book features the bombing of pearl harbour which makes for an unusual and not as well-known setting. 

On a critical note....
1. I do not appreciate how descriptive this author is of the romantic attraction the couples have for each other. To be sure there are no sexual scenes in her books and the feelings of attraction are often true enough. But I prefer  when authors only hint at the physical attraction one might have for another. And I wish she would mostly concentrate on the heart of the individuals rather than the looks (this she did accomplish in one of her first novels).  
2. One thing that must go: the kisses. Why do Christian novels concentrate so very much on the passionate kisses experienced between the main couple? I beg the author to consider taking these descriptive kisses out future books! They are not good for young unmarried girls to ponder! We have strong enough imaginations already. And in books there are kisses and extremely descriptive kisses.... 
(the reader doesn't need to know all the passionate feelings and thoughts each kisser experiences!)
3. This is a minor note since the author doesn't claim to be a mystery author. Yet, I will mention that the reader cannot expect a Sherlock Holmes-quality mystery from this book. ;) Although the mystery itself wasn't too telltale, it likewise was too broad in that the reader couldn't do any sleuthing for herself and really was left not caring who was the culprit! Sort of. 
4. I did not like the beautiful blond friend who shows up. I know what kind of fun, loving girl she was supposed to be but somehow they way she threw herself on poor Jim was too much. Oh well. She wasn't far off from many 1940's actresses I suppose.

I was sent a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. 

About the author:

Sarah Sundin is the author of With Every Letter, On Distant Shores, In Perfect Time, and the Wings of Glory series. In 2014, On Distant Shores was a finalist for the Golden Scroll Awards from both AWSA and the Christian Authors Network. In 2011, Sarah received the Writer of the Year Award at the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference. A graduate of UC San Francisco School of Pharmacy, she works on call as a hospital pharmacist. During WWII, her grandfather served as a pharmacist's mate (medic) in the Navy and her great-uncle flew with the US Eighth Air Force in England. Sarah lives in California with her husband and three children.

Find Sarah online: website, Facebook, Twitter