Book Review ~ Where We Belong

Product Description

During the Victorian era of 1892, sisters Rebecca and Flora Hawes are not typical Victorian women. They enjoy adventure and end up in the Sinai Desert to find an important biblical manuscript with their butler and ladies' maid in tow. The travelers are hit with a dangerous life threatening sandstorm and now they question what has shaped their lives up to this point.

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HELLO EVERYONE!!!  It has been a loooong time!  First off, happy November!  I hope you are all enjoying autumn/fall.   Today, I am here to do a book review for you all.  This book was much bigger than what I thought it was going to be.  But in the end, I'm glad it was.

This book goes back and forth from the "past" to the "present" of their time.  I liked how you not only see the characters grow, but you see all the things that shaped them into who they are.  The book is divided into sections, starting with the oldest sister, Rebecca.  It moves to Flora, then Petersen (the "butler"), then Kate, and back for the ending with Rebecca.  

I didn't mind this set up at all.  I did think that it was interesting that quite a bit of the book (I believe most of it) is set in the past, but that is understandable.  The reason being is that when you first start the book you are thrown right into the Sinai desert with two sisters, two servants and not a clue as to why they are doing this (other then the description telling you that they love adventure).

Let's talk about characters, shall we?  I loved both Rebecca and Flora.  They are both so different, yet they compliment each other.  It was really nice to read a book with two sisters and to see how much they truly love each other.  Rebecca is spunky, fearless, and loves adventure.  Flora is sweet, soft hearted, and kind.  As for Petersen, I felt for the guy.  I thought his story was very sad, but has a sweet ending.  Kate...was my least favorite.  Her story is sad as well, but I didn't know it till towards the end.  At the very end it was better, but for most of the book I didn't like her. 

I love how Christian based this book is.  The sisters are very strong believers (which I love!) and their saying is "God knows when the end of our days will be. We have nothing to fear."  <3 

Honestly, this is such a lovely book with so much in it is not very easy to review.  There are so many good, Godly principles.  So much to take away and apply to our own lives.  God has a special plan for each of our lives, He will always take care of us, and He is always with us.  Truly, a lovely book, with a beautiful story. I enjoyed it immensely and I highly recommend it!

5 out of 5 stars

Content: There is a scene in a brothel, but nothing happens to the character.  However, it is mentioned that the girl next store was entertaining someone.

*I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review ~ Unraveling by Sara Ella

Publisher's Description

"A sequel that outshines its already brilliant predecessor." —Nadine Brandes, award-winning author of the Out of Time trilogy

What happens when happily ever after starts to unravel?

Eliyana Ember doesn’t believe in true love. Not anymore. After defeating her grandfather and saving the Second Reflection, El only trusts what’s right in front of her. The tangible. The real. Not some unexplained Kiss of Infinity she once shared with the ghost of a boy she’s trying to forget. She has more important things to worry about—like becoming queen of the Second Reflection, a role she is so not prepared to fill.
Now that the Verity is intertwined with her soul and Joshua’s finally by her side, El is ready to learn more about her mysterious birth land, the land she now rules. So why does she feel like something—or someone—is missing?
When the thresholds begin to drain and the Callings, those powerful magical gifts, begin to fail, El wonders if her link to Ky Rhyen may have something to do with it. For light and darkness cannot coexist. She needs answers before the Callings disappear altogether. Can El find a way to sever her connection to Ky and save the Reflections—and keep herself from falling for him in the process?

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O. My. Word.  What a book!  For any of you who don't know, this is the second book in the Unblemished trilogy by Sara Ella.  And boy, oh boy, was it good (I'm still having a book hang over wishing the third book, Unbreakable was out).

It took me a little bit to try to remember who was who with some of the characters.  Cause there are quite a few to remember.  I also wish that there was a family tree or something so that it is easier to make connections with who is related to who.

The characters were great.  Of course, if you read my review for Unblemished, you know how much I loved Ky (And I still do.  So, so, MUCH).  But this time, I loved El as well.  She is unsure of herself and yet is stronger in this book.  I like the change in her.  She was a great character in this book.  And Joshua...well you just have to read the book to find out about him. 

The different worlds are cool.  Nice to see some other reflections.  It was honestly an awesome book.  I love the scenes with Ky and El.  They are just so...ah...I just love them together. <3  I also liked that this one was different from the first book.  In the first one they are trying to stop Crowe and save Eliyana's mom.  But in this one, well, you'll see. ;) 

I was so happy when Ky finally entered the picture.  He is only really in the book the second half.  The first half...well, you'll have to read it to find out (sorry, don't want to spoil anything :)).

I am loving the Unblemished trilogy and I cannot wait for the third and final one.  I can't believe I have to wait till May of 2018!  This book left quite the cliff hanger (well the first one, too, but this one maybe even more).  A bit of a suggestion, don't read this book without reading the first one, you will be VERY confused.

Overall, this book is another dive into the Reflections and visiting other worlds.  It's about friendship, courage, and love.  Well done Sara Ella!

5 out of 5 stars

*I received this book from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review ~ High as the Heavens

Publisher's Description

Page-Turning Intrigue and Romance from an Up-and-Coming Historical Romance Talent
In 1917, Evelyn Marche is just one of many women who has been widowed by the war. A British nurse trapped in German-occupied Brussels, she spends her days working at a hospital and her nights as a waitress in her aunt and uncle's café. Eve also has a carefully guarded secret keeping her in constant danger: She's a spy working for a Belgian resistance group in league with the British Secret Service.

When a British plane crashes in Brussels Park, Eve is the first to reach the downed plane and is shocked to discover she recognizes the badly injured pilot. British RFC Captain Simon Forrester is now a prisoner of war, and Eve knows he could be shot as a spy at any time. She risks her own life to hide him from the Germans, but as the danger mounts and the secrets between them grow, their chance of survival looks grim. And even if they do make it out alive, the truth of what lies between them may be more than any love can overcome.

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High as the Heavens is set during WWI.  It was an interesting enough read with some twists and turns in it.  Some of it was a bit boring and slow.  I didn't care for at the beginning of the book that the chapters went from present to past to present and so forth.  Simon was sweet, kind, and very patient. Eve was brave, smart, and courageous. Also, Eve went through some very horrible things that may be disturbing for some readers.

However, I cannot say that I was super attached to the characters. I did find it interesting that she worked for the British Secret Service as a spy.  Like I said, there are some twists and turns, but the book for the most part was a bit slow for my taste, but at the same time wasn't dull.  There is a scene towards the end that was more fast paced that I enjoyed.

The book also has quite a bit of kissing and descriptions of feelings, flutters and so forth (though I do understand why).  And quite honestly, I didn't care for the ending.  The war was still going on and things didn't quite "tie up nicely" so to speak.  

Overall, it's a story of love, forgiveness, and mercy. Also, I found it cool that she based Eve after three real life women of WWI. If you enjoy romance set during WWI, you will like this book.

*best for more mature readers

3 out of 5 stars

*I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

P.S. HAPPY JULY!!! *fireworks**

Bookcase Tour!!!

YES!  Today is the day I am going to be showing ya'll my bookcase!!!!   I have had my bookcase for about...ten months now?  Before I had my bookcase I stored all of my books on smaller bookcases in my closet.  I couldn't enjoy looking at them in there so I decided that I would like a big bookcase to have out in my room. 

I found my bookcase on Craigslist, me my dad and brother went and got it.  It was black, which doesn't go with my room, AT ALL!  So, my Daddy painted it a nice creamy color for me.  It matches my room perfectly!!!  As the months have rolled by, I have gotten new knick-knacks to display on it (of course, new books, too) and I am so happy with how it looks.  I still can't fit ALL of my books on it, so some still remain in my closet.  ;)  And now the moment you have all been waiting for, I present to you...my bookcase. (I apologize in advance for not great picture quality)

At the top of my bookcase I have some vintage suitcases with vintage hats on top.  Next to them I have three vintage cameras.

The top shelf is the only shelf that I have read ever single book on it.  From book reviews to just...books I read. ;)  For décor, I have two vintage cameras.

My second shelf from the top has books I haven't read and or finished reading. For knick-knacks I have another vintage hat, a metal sewing machine (it's cool and rusted), a crocheted tea pot (that is supposed to be an ornament, but I like it as décor), and a vintage tin container (I LOVE vintage tins!!). 

The third shelf contains my vintage/old books.  I love me some old books!!! <3

Ahhh...the fourth shelf.  This shelf contains my beloved Tolkien and Lewis books.  I collect different copies of LOTR and I'm up to five different copies of The Hobbit. :D  As for decorations, I have a neat container that looks like a vintage camera, with a Mickey Mouse pen in it I got from Mexico.  On the opposite side I have another vintage camera (can you tell I like em'?) and the little brown pouch?  Inside of it is a little thingy that I believe is for a camera to help it with the flash, something like that.

The fifth shelf....It's blurry.  I apologize.  Anyways, this shelf is a cross between classical and fairytales (and Melanie Dickerson).  For décor, there is this little boy on a bicycle and on the other end is notepad paper that comes out of a box that looks like a typewriter. 

And the sixth and final shelf contains...a mix of different things.  From more classical to Janette Oke and hiding behind King Raven is Frank Pretti and others.  Really just a miscellaneous shelf.

And the overall view, along with a glimpse into my room. Well I hope you enjoyed getting a peek at some of my books. And I also hope you have a great day!!  Blessings ~ Morgan

Book Review // Bread of Angels

Publisher's Description

Purple. The foundation of an influential trade in a Roman world dominated by men. One woman rises up to take the reins of success in an incredible journey of courage, grit, and friendship. And along the way, she changes the world.

But before she was Lydia, the seller of purple, she was simply a merchant’s daughter who loved three things: her father, her ancestral home, and making dye. Then unbearable betrayal robs her of nearly everything.

With only her father’s secret formulas left, Lydia flees to Philippi and struggles to establish her business on her own. Determination and serendipitous acquaintances—along with her father’s precious dye—help her become one of the city’s preeminent merchants. But fear lingers in every shadow, until Lydia meets the apostle Paul and hears his message of hope, becoming his first European convert. Still, Lydia can’t outrun her secrets forever, and when past and present collide, she must either stand firm and trust in her fledgling faith or succumb to the fear that has ruled her life.

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When I saw that I was able to get another book from Tessa Afshar, I was all over it.  Since I adored her book, Land of Silence, I had somewhat of high expectations for this book.

Characters

I really liked Lydia.  She wasn't one of those "annoying" gals I often end up with.  She struggles with fear, which I thought was very interesting to read about.  How she transforms into the person God intended her to be was well done. 

I loved Rebekah.  She is Lydia's best friend who is Jewish.  She is sweet, kind, and loves Lydia like her own sister (Lydia feels the same toward her).  She shares her faith in her God with Lydia and is very knowledgeable.  The friendship between these two young women is lovely.  They both have things in their pasts that they both had to deal with.  Even though they have God, they feel they are missing something.

Paul, Silas, Luke and the gang are also great to read about.  Paul shares Jesus with them, the One who they are missing.  Paul is like a spiritual father to them.  There is also Marcus, I liked him as well.  His quite, protective demeanor is attractive.  I also loved that Tessa gave cameos to some of the characters from Land of Silence.

And of course, there are always bad guys.  And of course, they are nasty to the core.  That's all I'm going to say about them.

Story

For me, the story was a semi slow pace.  I mean, there were always things going wrong, but it just wasn't the upbeat tempo that's my favorite.  The story itself was good.  In a nutshell, it's about giving all your hurt and fear to God. To trust Him each day for your needs.  He guides you in everything, nothing is by mistake.  He can take the bad and turn it good.

Overall

It was good book.  It wasn't as good as Land of Silence, but it was still well done.  One other note, I loved the relationship of Lydia and her father.  I thought it was really sweet.  Again, really nicely done.  I enjoyed it.

4 out of 5 stars

*I received this book from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review // Wings of the Wind

Publisher's Description

Cossette Consistently Brings the Old Testament to Life in an Engrossing, Fresh New Way

Alanah, a Canaanite, is no stranger to fighting and survival. When her family is killed in battle with the Hebrews, she disguises herself and sneaks onto the battlefield to avenge her family. The one thing she never counted on was surviving.

Tobiah, a Hebrew warrior, is shocked to find an unconscious, wounded woman among the Canaanite casualties. Compelled to bring her to a Hebrew healer back at their camp, he is soon confronted with a truth he can't ignore: the only way to protect this enemy is to marry her.

Unused to being weak and vulnerable, Alanah submits to the marriage--for now. As she comes to know and respect Tobiah and his people, however, she begins to second-guess her plans of escape. But when her past has painfully unanticipated consequences, the tentative peace she's found with Tobiah, the Hebrews, and Yahweh is shaken to the core. Can Alanah's fierce heart and strength withstand the ensuing threats to her life and all she's come to love?

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The last installment of the 'Out from Egypt' series, by Connilyn Cossette.  You may or may not know, but I read the first two books in this series as well. My favorite was the first one, Counted Among the Stars, but the other two are good as well.

This book is set forty years after the second book.  Which is kind of sad since the other characters were older and not in it much.  I didn't care for Alanah very much at first.  She is headstrong and as it says in the description, has a fierce heart.  I understand why, but characters like that aren't my personal favorite.  She does (thankfully) get better as the book goes on.  She became really good from about middle to end, I think.  I enjoyed reading about her at that time.

Tobiah is a fine character.  I didn't mind him.  He was kind and compassionate.  One of my favorite characters was Moriah.  She was a great, kind-hearted, sweet character.  Even though the book was forty years later after the second one, it was neat to read about The Battle of Jericho.  And I really liked that Connilyn added in a certain person from the Bible.

What I really loved about this series was that it shows how God loves people.  His chosen people and people from Egypt to Canaan.  He loves, cares and has a plan for all of us, if we are willing to follow Him. 

Overall, this is a really great series.  From Egypt to Jericho. Stories of courage, faith, and love. 

Content: This book is best for more mature readers. 

4 out of 5 stars

*I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review ~ Invitation

Product Description

From the minds of Bill Myers, Frank Peretti, Angela Hunt, and Alton Gansky, Invitation compiles the first four episodes of the Harbingers series, each following a different character.
BRENDA - The street-hustling tattoo artist who sees images of the future.
THE PROFESSOR - The atheist ex-priest ruled by logic.
ANDI - The professor's brilliant but geeky assistant who sees inexplicable patterns
TANK - The naïve, big-hearted jock with a surprising connection to a healing power.
The four find out that pockets of darkness are emerging throughout the world. Whether it involves a mysterious house, the unexplainable death of animals around the world, or an otherworldly little girl, each mystery they solve brings them closer to the ultimate explanation of what's happening. What will happen if they don't solve the mysteries in time?

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This is a book that contains four books. One by each author, Bill Myers, Frank Peretti, Angela Hunt, and Alton Gansky.  I have read a book by Myers and I love Peretti so I was looking forward to trying this thrilling book out.

Crazy things start happening in the first book, The Call by Bill Myers and it doesn't stop there.  It is the first time these four unlikely people end up together.  From this "school" that's for gifted youngsters that has a well that goes down into the earth and sounds like ends in hell.  To a house that moves and disappears, and brings them together with a little boy named, Daniel.  And then to Florida with eyeless fish washing up on shore and eyeless birds falling.  And finally to Oregon where they get involved with a little girl that can float and ages younger. 

So many twists and turns through this supernatural thriller with lots of stuff based in the spiritual realm.  For instance, Daniel has a friend only he can see who's name is not Harvey.  There is also an IT that sounds super creepy.  And there are these freaky creatures that they all see for a moment that sound like demons (even Tank said so).  There is a bit more, but I'll leave it there.

I think all of the characters are interesting, unique and completely different in their own ways.  My personal favorite is Tank.  Because he is the only one of the bunch (besides maybe Daniel, I don't know) that believes in God.  He has healing power through Him and it's awesome. 

I really enjoyed these books.  They did leave me hanging and I know that was on purpose.  I'm looking forward to reading the next book(s).  If you like supernatural thrillers with witty, interesting characters, then this is the book for you.  I personally, really liked it.

5 out of 5 stars

*I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review ~ Some Small Magic

Publisher's Description

From acclaimed author Billy Coffey comes Some Small Magic, "a story of determination and love . . . that deserves to be read" (RT Book Reviews).

All Abel wants is a little bit of magic in his life. Enough money so his mom doesn’t cry at night. Healing for his broken body. And maybe a few answers about his past.
When Abel discovers letters to him from the father he believed dead, he wonders if magic has come to the hills of Mattingly, Virginia, after all. But not everything is as it seems.
With a lot of questions and a little bit of hope, Abel decides to run away to find the truth. But danger follows him from the moment he jumps his first boxcar, forcing Abel to rely on his simpleminded friend Willie—a man wanted for murder who knows more about truth than most—and a beautiful young woman they met on the train.
From Appalachia to the Tennessee wilds and through the Carolina mountains, the name of a single small town beckons: Fairhope. That is where Abel believes his magic lays. But will it be the sort that will bring a broken boy healing? And is it the magic that will one day lead him home
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*be prepared for spoilers*

This book in a word would be...sad. For most of the book it felt like it was dragging on.  I didn't like the beatings and being bullied that Abel got.  He has brittle bones and is small.  He has one leg that is shorter then the other and kind of hobbles to walk.  The bully boy, Chris is mean to him and says "I'm goin to kill you."  And one night he tries, but Abel's only friend, Dumb Willie, kills Chris first.  Yikes.  Dumb Willie is called "dumb" because he is more childlike in a grown mans body.  He is slow in words, but loves Abel. 

The "beautiful woman" they meet on the train is actually...Death.  But Abel and Dumb Willie don't know that (Dumb Willie knows way before Abel) and Abel calls her Dorothy.  It is a long story and I'm not going into all the details, but lets just say it is a sad and rather odd book.  I don't really get the point in it. Since this book is getting the lowest rating I have ever given, I'm going to point out some of the things I didn't like.  I mentioned some the things above.

There is this preacher who gives Abel a "word".  But when he does the description of what happens sounded demonic to me.  I didn't like that.  The word bastard is used quite a bit.  And another word I loathe, retarded.  It wasn't necessary and I don't like it. 

When Abel first meets Dorothy (Death) he kind of looks her over.  Apparently, her shirt was a little unbuttoned and his eyes travel to two humps (boobs)as he tries to hold his Blatter.  Um...what in the world?!  Then, later on she is wearing a cross body bag with the strap between her...you know what, and Abel wishes he was that strap.  Guys, he's eleven, seriously? Was that necessary?  When Dumb Willie gets into a pond he is completely naked.  Dorothy (Death) jumps in with all her clothes on, to Abel's disappointment.  Then the last one, which isn't as bad as the first three, is when the wind is playing with her hair and Abel wishes he could do that.  Eventually, he tells her he loves her.

There is this weird "magical" pond that they eventually get to that is protect by a Cherokee Indian.  If you go in it you get healed then the water turns to mud.  This pond is in a dump.  It was just odd.

Okay, I'll leave it at that.  The only good thing about this book, besides finishing it, was when Abel gets to see his dad at the end.  That's it. 

Overall, I don't recommend this book.  I found it slow, odd, and sad.  I'm just glad I finished it.

1 out of 5 stars

*I received this book from Thomas Nelson in exchange for my honest review

Book Review ~ The One True Love of Alice-Ann

Publisher's Description

Living in rural Georgia in 1941, sixteen-year-old Alice-Ann has her heart set on her brother’s friend Mack; despite their five-year age gap, Alice-Ann knows she can make Mack see her for the woman she’ll become. But when they receive news of the attack on Pearl Harbor and Mack decides to enlist, Alice-Ann realizes she must declare her love before he leaves.

Though promising to write, Mack leaves without confirmation that her love is returned. But Alice-Ann is determined to wear the wedding dress her maiden aunt never had a chance to wear—having lost her fiancé in the Great War. As their correspondence continues over the next three years, Mack and Alice-Ann are drawn closer together. But then Mack’s letters cease altogether, leaving Alice-Ann to fear history repeating itself.

Dreading the war will leave her with a beautiful dress and no happily ever after, Alice-Ann fills her days with work and caring for her best friend’s war-torn brother, Carlton. As time passes and their friendship develops into something more, Alice-Ann wonders if she’ll ever be prepared to say good-bye to her one true love and embrace the future God has in store with a newfound love. Or will a sudden call from overseas change everything?

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This book is set during World War Two, which I haven't read a ton of books on.  But I really enjoyed it, especially it also being my favorite clothing era. 

Characters:

I really enjoyed the different characters, from the main gal, Alice-Ann, to her Aunt Beth, from her friends to her brother and his wife.  They were all so different and yet blended together nicely.  Alice-Ann I was fine with.  It was nice to see her grow up throughout the book into the young women God meant for her to be. She was sometimes annoying, but I still appreciated her character being able to learn and grow.

Mack and Carlton were good characters as well, of course I liked one more than the other...but I'll let you read the book and discover that part yourself.  I'll just say that my favorite was the one she goes with. :)  And boy did I have butterflies in my stomach at some parts!  That's a good writer for yah, makes you feel what the characters are feeling.  Bravo, Ms. Eva!

Writing:

Again, I really liked it.  Descriptive enough without it being overly so.  How the characters were feeling and such was spot on!  Body language, eye movement, things like that.  Well done.

Overall:

I really enjoyed this book.  It had enough going on to give it good momentum without being overly fast-paced.  I enjoyed it also being set during World War Two.  Overall, a really lovely book that I would recommend if you like history and romance.  Definitely give this one a go!

Stars: 4 out of 5

*I received this book from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review ~ The Illusionist's Apprentice

Publisher's Description

Not all illusions happen on the stage.

Wren Lockhart, apprentice to master illusionist Harry Houdini, uses life on a vaudeville stage to
escape the pain of her past. She continues her career of illusion after her mentor’s death, intent on burying her true identity.
But when a rival performer’s act goes tragically wrong, the newly formed FBI calls on Wren to speak the truth—and reveal her real name to the world. She transfers her skills for misdirection from the stage to the back halls of vaudeville, as she finds herself the unlikely partner in the FBI’s investigation. All the while Houdini’s words echo in her mind: Whatever occurs, the crowd must believe it’s what you meant to happen. She knows that if anyone digs too deep, secrets long kept hidden may find their way to the surface—and shatter her carefully controlled world.
Set during one of the richest, most vibrant eras in American history, this Jazz Age novel of illusion, suspense, and forgotten pasts is perfect for fans of The Magician’s Lie, challenging all to find the underpinnings of faith on their own life’s stage.
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First off, isn't this cover gorgeous?!  I first saw that this book was going to be coming out on CBD.com. I believe it was last month.  Anyways, I thought it sounded very interesting and then boom, I was able to get it to review.  I was so excited!  Any who, on to the review...

Honestly, this is a really good book.  I loved the different characters and there were so many twists and turns.  If you know me, I love a good faster paced book, and this book did not disappoint.  The pace was definitely to my liking. 

I am very picky when it comes to girls being the leads in books, but I actually didn't mind Wren.  She wasn't one of those "annoying" gals.  She has this mask that she hides behind, and isn't the kindest, but when it finally starts to slip...well you'll see. Though it does take her a long time.  Its really amazing how the author wrote her character.  Strong yet soft, smart yet broken.  I do think her back story was really sad and for a more mature reader.

Agent Matthews is the FBI agent she ends up working with and I liked him as well.  One thing about his character that you normally don't see in other characters in books (that I really loved) was how observant he is.  He is always watching everything and person.  Definitely a good agent as he also has some wicked driving skills.  He is a sweet guy who never gives up on Wren even when she isn't being nice to him.  And he also has a sad back story, although I think Wren's is sadder still.

I also loved that it was a book with a little of the famous magician/illusionist, Harry Houdini.  The time set was also wonderful as it is set during the 1920's.  Which was a lot of fun, especially when it came to the clothing.

As for sidekick characters they were a lot of fun too.  There weren't a ton of them, but that's ok as too many characters can be rather confusing.  The writing style was also very good and descriptive.  Not just setting the scene, but how the characters were feeling, body language, and such. 

Then of course, the mystery of the book.  It's like you are putting together a puzzle and you are only getting one piece at a time and at the end is when you can finally put it all together.  It is a lot of fun to try and guess and either be right or wrong and then another twist is thrown in.

I really loved this book.  I do wish it was a little longer though. It was classic and clean with some mystery, action, a little romance, and yes, magic.  Even though the word "illusion" is probably more fitting.  I definitely recommend it.  Though I would caution for younger readers as there is some mature content.

4 out of 5 stars

*I received this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review~King's Blood

Publisher's Description

Jill Williamson's Fantasy Saga Continues!
In the second volume of Jill Williamson's Kinsman Chronicles, a remnant has escaped the destruction of the Five Realms and now lives on several hundred ships adrift at sea. As a flock, they sail north into the unknown in hopes of finding land that might become their new home.

As the king's illness worsens, Sâr Wilek takes authority over the expedition and struggles to rule the disjointed people, while assassination attempts, vicious serpents, and dark magic endanger his life.

One prophecy has come to pass, but another looms dauntingly in the future. Who is this Deliverer? And if the Magonians have him, what might that mean for the realm of Armania?

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I did it again.  I got a second book in a series and have not read the first.  But this time I did do it deliberately.  You see, I thought I would get the first book and read it before the second one came in, but no.  I didn't.  And I thought o well, I have read seconds even a third book in a series and it was alright.  Wrong.  This book is huge!  In fact, it is three separate eBooks put into one big book.  Anyways, onto the review...

I would definitely recommend if this book sparks your interest, read the first one!  It is quiet difficult when they talk about things that happened in the first book and you have no idea what is going on.  There are also a LOT of characters!  Thankfully, at the beginning of the book there is a list of characters names, but sometimes I couldn't find the name I was looking for.  I did like the writing style.  There is a lot of magic in it since it is a "fantasy" book.

There are many gods, although the true He who Created the World is Arman.  Which I liked.  What I didn't like was that there are these, how shall I put this?  They are like in my opinion, demons, but they are called shadir.  And they can be bonded with a human, and when this happens the human is now a mantic.  The human can use this drug called evenroot and have magical powers.

Also, the human, now a mantic when bonded with a shadir not only has magical powers with the evenroot, but also the shadir can help heal their human.  I don't think Satan, called Gazer in the book, wants people to be healed.  God wants healing and Satan wants the opposite of God every time. So, I didn't like that. 

Now, I don't mind a little magic, but a lot is not my cup of tea.  I also don't like that there are all these demons and you hear nothing about angels.  I would have liked there being some angels that protect the people who believe in Arman or those who are starting to and what not.  The shadir (demons) can also whisper into peoples ears and encourage them to do something they should not do.  Now, if there were some angels, then they could help encourage the human not to do said thing.  Yah feel me?  Although, I did read that Onika, Arman's Prophetess, has a shadir with her, so I'm assuming that's an angel?

There is also lots of immorality.  Of course, the author was doing that for ancient Israel when the people turned against God time and time again.  Serving many gods and sacrificing to them(including sacrificing people).  They could have as many wives as they wanted and concubines.  And all of this is in the book.  Of course, in the first book there were the five Woes and that destroyed everything because it was Arman's (God's) Judgement.  Luckily, the prophetess, Onika who is a servant of Arman warned the people so quite a few could escape.  But now they are all stuck on boats sailing to an island (I will stop there least I spoil).

I enjoyed the different characters.  I thought the author did a great job giving them all different personalities.  Like I said, there are a bunch of characters and I found myself frequently looking up names.

Overall, I enjoyed the upbeat rhythm of the book.  I prefer faster paced books and this one did pretty well.  I enjoyed the different characters and there different struggles that each faced.  I didn't care for all the magic in it.  There was a lot of it and not having read the first book made things even more confusing.  Although I did get a lot of it, but there still were things I wasn't so sure about.  I grew attached to characters and that ending...I'm definitely curious for the third book.

3.5 out of 5 stars.

* I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

A Question of Honor Cover Reveal!

So today is the day I am participating in my first book cover reveal!!  My blogging friend, Jesseca has her book, A Question of Honor coming out on March 3rd!!  And today my friends is the big reveal for the cover!!  So without further ado...

Coming March 3rd, 2017---A Question of Honor (Questions of War book #1)

A man. A child. A war.

When German soldiers invade France during World War II, young Joyanna's perfect world is shattered. In the hands of those who hate her, she battles to comprehend why people can be so ruthless and cold toward those whom they have never met.
David Sullivan, pilot in the Royal Air Force, was certain he would never hate, but a painful loss forces him to either reconsider or do the inconceivable—forgive. He is suddenly challenged by the realization that doing God's will is not easy, but most important. With the lives of freedom-fighters relying on him, he must learn the difficult lesson that he is not in control, but merely one who must surrender his heart of obedience to One greater.
A sudden turn of events lands Joyanna and David in the same country—but for far different reasons. When their paths cross, David finds he must make a decision that will affect them both for the rest of their lives.
Will he chose vengeance, or will he let his life be ruled by a higher standard? A standard of Honor. 

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Doesn't that sound awesome?!  I think it does!  And isn't the cover amazing?! 

                                                                      About the Author

Jesseca is an 18-year old daughter, sister, and a child of God. Her days are spent reading, cooking spending time with siblings, or playing piano.  And writing, of course! At an early age words fascinated her, and her love for the printed page has only grown. She lives with her parents and seven siblings in the sunny state of Kansas, and she’s convinced there’s no place like home.

Thank you so much for reading!  And congratulations, Jesseca!!

By the way, happy February!!

Book Review: A Portrait of Emily Price

Book Description

Art restorer Emily Price has never encountered anything she can’t fix—until she meets Ben, an Italian chef, who seems just right. When Emily follows Ben home to Italy, she learns that his family, however, is another matter . . .
Emily Price—fix-it girl extraordinaire and would-be artist—finds herself in Atlanta, repairing objects damaged in a house fire. As she works to restore the home and dreams of one family, she strives to keep the pieces of her own life in perfect order and secure her own happy ending—a gallery show of her own. There is no time for distractions, especially not the ultimate distraction of falling in love.
But Chef Benito Vassallo’s relentless pursuit proves hard to resist. Visiting from Italy, Ben works to reconnect with his brother and breathe new life into his aunt and uncle’s faded restaurant, Piccolo. And soon after their first meeting, he works to win Emily as well—inviting her into his world and into his heart.
Emily astonishes everyone when she accepts Ben’s proposal and follows him home. Upon landing in Rome, she is enchanted with Italy. But instead of allowing the land, culture and people to transform her, Emily imposes her will upon everyone and everything around her, alienating Ben’s tightly knit family. Only Ben’s father, Lucio, gives Emily the understanding she needs to lay down her guard. Soon, Emily’s life and art begin to blossom, and Italy’s beauty and rhythm take hold of her spirit.
Yet when she unearths long-buried family secrets, Emily wonders if she really fits into Ben’s world. Will the joys of Italy become just a memory, or will Emily share in the freedom and grace that her life with Ben has shown her are possible?

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So I read Katherine Reay's first book, Dear Mr. Knightly.  And while I was reading it I realized that I could get her new book to review.  So I did.

This book was in all honesty, not that interesting.  There is a bit of a mystery as to why Lucio, Ben's dad is having Emily uncover a painted over painting at the church.  And why Joseph (Ben's brother) after graduating left home to come to Atlanta.  And some other things as well.  But it was not all that fascinating to me. 

Katherine Reay is a good writer, she presents things nicely and descriptively.  She does well in transforming characters throughout her books.  However, there is not a lot of "God" in the transformation, which is disappointing.  I love a radical change with a radical love for God in characters.  And hers are not like that. 

Overall this books is...ok.  I did like the ending I thought it finished nicely.  But I wish there was more Jesus in her books.  There was also a bit to much wine, if you ask me.  I understand they are "Italian,"  but I don't think it was necessary to do a wine tasting and then say that Joseph used to do it when he was a teenager.   Another thing was there was too much kissing before they got married.

Final note, this was not my favorite book.  I'll leave it with the pros, good writing, good transformation, and learning that not everything has to be "perfect".

2 out of 5 stars

*I received this book from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: Unblemished

                                    

Product Description

Unblemished, by Sara Ella
Eliyana has a birthmark covering half of her face.  Her mother and Joshua are the only people who treat her normally.  Because of Joshua, she believes she can be loved.  One night her mother does not come home.  Joshua becomes her new legal Guardian.  She is also being stalked.  Eliyana soon finds herself in a world much larger than she’s ever known. A world forced to remain in a bad situation by a powerful and vile man. Eliyana holds the answer to defeating him. How can an ordinary girl, a blemished girl, become a savior when she can’t even save herself?

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O. My. Goodness.  THIS BOOK!!!!!  It was AMAZING!!!!   I thought the cover was neat online, but then I saw it in person...WOW!!!  This is such a beautiful cover!  It even has sparkles on it.  :D  On to the review...

This is a super fast paced, fairytale, adventure.  We jump in right when Eliyana is grieving her mother's death.  Then a whorl pool of things happen to her.  Before you know it she is in another world...well technically the Second Reflection.  Where we live is the Third Reflection, there are seven in total.  Anyways, at the beginning of the book you are just as lost as El (her one of many nickname's) on everything going on.  How is her birthmark, that she has always hated, something important?  Something that can save these people.

Let's talk about some of the characters, shall we?  El, can sometimes be annoying.  She is into Joshua a bit too much, if you ask me.  And she doesn't trust Ky at first (will talk about him next), but I can't say I blame her.  He had given her no reason to trust him, but after he saves her and is being kind to her, she is still suspicions of him.  Just trust the guy already (I say that, but I wasn't so sure myself at one point!).  Which she does eventually.  Other than that she is a fine heroine.

Ky is my favorite character.  At first he is a "bad guy,"  but it is really just an act.  He is cocky, funny, SUPER protective (which is super sweet), kind, and I just...love him.  He's one of those characters you can't help but like (love). 

I don't want to give to much away.  This is an epic story of love.  A story of good vs. evil.  And the biggest love triangle I have ever witnessed.  I am truly sad that I finished it.  And the second one doesn't come out till July of next year!!! Ugh.  I need answers.  At the end you don't know who El is going to choose, Joshua or Ky.  I'm team Ky all the way.  If you love fantasy, romance, and fast paced goodness, this is the book for you.  It also has some fun references that I enjoyed reading (minus the Harry Potter ones).

The one thing that I didn't care for was that Eliyana's Mom had her at 16 and she conceived her by a married man.  Even though I don't think she knew he was married, they still shouldn't have done that.
Other than that I LOVED this book!!!  I can't wait for the second one!!!  Well done, Sara Ella!!!

5 out of 5 stars

*I received this book from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: Shadow of the Storm

Publisher's Description

In the Depth of the Storm's Shadow, Only Truth Can Light Her Way Having escaped Egypt with the other Hebrews during the Exodus, Shira is now living in freedom at the foot of Mt. Sinai, upon which rests the fiery glowing Cloud containing the shekinah glory of God. When the people disobey Yahweh and build a golden idol, the ensuing chaos gives Shira an unexpected opportunity to learn the arts of midwifery. Although her mother wishes for her to continue in the family weaving trade, Shira's gifts shine brightest when she assists with deliveries. In defiance of her mother, Shira pursues her heart's calling to become an apprentice midwife.

When a delivery goes horribly wrong, Shira finds herself bound to a man who betrayed her, the caretaker of three young children, and the target of a vengeful woman whose husband was killed by Shira's people, the Levites. As contention between the Hebrew tribes and the foreigners fans the flames of another dangerous rebellion, Shira will come face-to-face with the heartbreak of her past that she has kept hidden for so long. How can she let go of all that has defined her to accept the love she's denied herself and embrace who she truly is?

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So you may remember that I did a book review for a book called, Counted with the Stars back in April.  I LOVED it!!  You can read that review, here.  Anyways, when I saw that the second book in the series was available to request, I was so excited!!!  And so glad that I got it! 

                                                                         Characters

I already loved Shira in Counted with the Stars.  So I was excited to experience this book through her eyes.  She is stronger and braver than she knows.  And sometimes when she submits or lets things go I want to shake her a bit.  And encourage her to believe in herself, that she can do it. Thankfully, Ayal and Kiya do that for me.  Thanks, guys.  By the end of the book she has changed into the person Yahweh made her to be.  A strong, brave women.  Who is kind and loving.

As for Ayal, the main guy. I didn't like him as much as I did Eben (the main guy in the first book).  He was ok.  I won't say to much less I spoil it.  He just wasn't my favorite.  I am glad that he did apologize to Shira and truly does love her.

And the vengeful gal, Dvorah.  Some parts of the book were from her point of view, which was interesting to read.  And I wonder what will happen in the next book concerning her.  It kind of left you hanging.

And of course, some of the characters from the first book.  Jumo and Eben weren't in it as much as the first book.  They were there, and mentioned here and there, but not the conversationalists'. I did like the sisterly bond between Kiya and Shira.  That was sweet.

                                                                         Overall

It was an enjoyable book.  I like the first one more, but this one is still good.  The writing is great and descriptive.  No matter how many scars that you have on your heart, you can be healed by the One who made it.  You just have to let it all go, give it to God.  Forgive others and the harder one, yourself.  In Him all things are made new.  And He will be with you during all the storms and trials in life.

One note though, there are some things that are not for younger readers, this is definitely a book for more mature people.  

4 out of  5

*I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: Where Hope Prevails

Publisher's Description

Inspiring Conclusion to a Popular Series with a TV tie-in When Beth Thatcher returns to Coal Valley, she has much to be excited about. She anticipates Jarrick's proposal of marriage and perhaps a spring wedding. The mine is expanding, and there are more schoolchildren than ever.

But the town's rapid growth brings many challenges. A second teacher is assigned, and Beth finds herself going head-to-head with a very different philosophy of education--one that dismisses religion and rejects God. Fearful for the children who sit under the influence of Robert Harris Hughes, Beth struggles to know how to respond.

At the same time, Beth wonders if Jarrick is considering a position at her father's company simply for her sake. Should she admit her feelings on the matter? Or keep silent and allow Jarrick to make up his own mind?

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When I saw that Bethany House had this book available for review, I was so excited!  I have already read the first two in this series and it was such a blessing to get the third in exchange for my honest review.

We return to Coal Valley after Beth's adventures from the last book, with school starting up with new students and a new teacher.  Mr. Harris Hughes is the new teacher and he has new ideas.  This book shows that when we meet people who don't believe in God, we need to show them His love.  A concept Beth has a hard time with, but in the end she comes through with the love of Jesus in what she does.

Jarrick isn't in this book very much, but I guess he really isn't a whole lot in the others either.  When he is in it he is always kind and loves Beth with all his heart. 

What I really like about this series is the lessons they show.  About love, hope, and trust in God.  Miss Molly is a big influence on Beth she has lived through learned, lessons of her own.  She prays and encourages Beth about her own situations she is going through.

In the end this is a nice, clean series.  I love how much God they put in it.  That is always nice to read.  He is always with us and will guide out steps.  This isn't a super fast pace book, but it is a nice walk in the park.

4 out of 5 stars

* I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review: Fraying at the Edge

Publisher's Description

Family, community, faith, and love.
These "quilt blocks" sewn together made Ariana’s beautiful life.
When they are pulled to pieces,
will anything familiar remain?

The Old Order Amish life Ariana Brenneman loved vanished virtually overnight with the discovery that she was switched at birth twenty years ago. Now she’s immersed in the Englischer world, getting to know her mother and under the authority of her biological father, an atheist intellectual with resolute plans to expand Ariana’s worldview. Only Quill Schlabach, a childhood friend living Englisch, can help steady Ariana’s tilting ground between the two worlds, but can she trust him after so many betrayals?

At the same time, Skylar Nash is forced to choose rehab or spend several months with her true relatives, the large Brenneman family and their seemingly backward life—no electricity, no technology, no fun. What the young woman can’t leave behind is her addiction to illegal prescription drugs and deep emptiness from the belief that she doesn’t belong in either family.

New ties are binding Ariana and Skylar to the lives they were meant to have. Can they find the wisdom and strength they’ll need to follow God’s threads into unexpected futures?

Fraying at the Edge is the second novel in The Amish of Summer Grove series.

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Not realizing once again that this is in fact a second book in a series.  Sigh.  I wish it was more clear that this is a second book. With that being said, this book was pretty confusing.  It felt like I was jumping into the middle of a book.  Very confusing, not being connected to any of these characters and there being a lot of them since Ariana's Amish family has I believe nine children and several grandchildren. (her nieces' and nephews')

I thought the writing was well done, showing the conflict of a young Amish women who grew up believing that she was Amish to being thrown into the Englischer world.  I thought her conflict and how much she changes in that time in the Englischer world was well done and described good.

With Skylar I thought for being a drug addict and all her issues it came through her attitude very well.  The Brennemans' show her love and eventually get through to her crispy, cold heart.  Though it took some time.  She is not my personal favorite, but I thought she showed how someone can change with love. Sadly, she doesn't believe in God, yet.

I wasn't super connected to the characters, but enough to be curious about the first and third book.  With this being the second book and like I said, confusing.  It didn't answer some of my questions about the past, but I believe the first book would.

Overall: 2.5 out of 5

* I received this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review.

My Book Photography

Hello everyone!!  I thought it would be fun to share with you all some pictures I took of some of my books.  I edited them using PicMonkey. 

I received this copy of The Hobbit for Christmas this past year and the acorns are earrings I made.

Let me know which picture is your favorite!  I hope you all have an awesome weekend!!

P.S.

Book Review: The Loyal Heart

Publisher's Description

Robert came to Galveston to fulfill his promise to a dying man and look after his widow. He didn’t expect to find love in the unlikeliest of places.
Robert Truax, former Second Lieutenant and Confederate officer in the Civil War, made a promise to his comrade Phillip Markham. If anything happened to Phillip, Robert would look after his beloved wife, Miranda. She was his life, his world, his everything.
After the war, Robert is left to pick up the pieces and fulfill his pact. When he arrives at Miranda's home in Galveston, Texas, things are worse than he imagined. Phillip's name has been dragged through the mud, everyone in town believes him to be a traitor, and his widow is treated as an outcast. Even more disturbing is her emotional well-being. Miranda seems hopeless, lost, and so very alone.
Robert had thought his duty would be simple. He would help Miranda as quickly as possible in order to honor a promise. But the moment Robert laid eyes on her, his plans changed. He's mesmerized by her beauty and yearns to help her in any way he can.
He makes it his duty to protect Miranda, turn her reputation around, and to find some way to help her smile again. But it doesn't prove to be an easy task—Robert knows something about Phillip that could shake Miranda to the core and alter her view of the man she thought she knew so well.

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This book is about love, healing, and loyalty.  The characters were just fine.  I didn't get particularly super attached to any them.

Robert was fine and so was Miranda.  Robert suffers from flash backs to his days in the service.  And Miranda suffers depression for most of the book.  She is mistreated by everyone including her once best friend.  After her husband, Philip died and the war was over some rumors start going around that Philip was a traitor.  And that Miranda was unfaithful to him.  On top of all the stares, whispers, loneliness, and threat letters for her home,  Philip's Mother and sister are beyond rude and want their home back, Miranda's home left to her by Philip. Which is where Robert steps in to help. 

It was rather odd how you would be reading a conversation and then a word is said and for several paragraphs it takes you back in time.  Then it would come back to the "present" and continue the conversation.  Some chapters were solely in the past, which was a better way to explain things, in my opinion.

Another odd thing was that Robert and Miranda go through a lot together, but they don't really know all that much about one another.  So it is interesting that they get together like snap.

If you like books during or after the Civil War, books with romance, danger, and a little mystery, then this just might be the book for you.   It was an ok book.  I wish it had some more Godly principles because there weren't that many.

Rating: 3 out of 5

* I received this book from BookLook in exchange for my honest review.