An Asian Harvest by Paul Hattaway (Book Review!)

An Asian Harvest

An Autobiography

by Paul Hattaway

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Nonfiction / Christian / Missionary / Autobiography

Published by- Lion Fiction

Copyrighted- 2017

Number of pages- 320

Age Group- Adult

Today Paul Hattaway leads the ministry he founded, Asia Harvest, which has supplied milliions of Bibles to Christians in Asia, including China.  Life wasn’t always so successful for him.  He grew up in New Zealand and left home at the age of 16.  He moved to Australia where he befriended a coworker, who taught him about God.  Hattaway knew God was calling him to be a Bible courier in China.  He went to Hong Kong and soon began carrying Bibles across the border.  This was the beginning of his missionary work, and this is the book that tells that story.

About the Author-

Paul Hattaway grew up in New Zealand.  He has been a Bible courier and missionary.  He is the founder and director of Asia Harvest, which serves and supports the Church in Asia with Bible printing and helping missionaries.

My thoughts-

I was inspired as I read An Asian Harvest.  Paul Hattaway has a very strong faith, which should inspire everyone.  He prayed, focused, and knew what he needed to do to accomplish what he felt God was telling him.

There were many Bible verses and quotes from other Christian missionaries and teachers.  They were the right quotes at the right time.  The best part of the Bible verses was that they were chunks and not just small snippets.  I find that there is a lot more to get out of a chunk of verses, instead of one verse or part of one.

I thought this was a good book.  I highly recommend you read it, because you will see what true faith in God means and will be inspired. 

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received An Asian Harvest, by Paul Hattaway, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Cover Story by Deb Richardson-Moore (Book Review!)

The Cover Story

A Branigan Powers Mystery, Book 2

by Deb Richardson-Moore

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Fiction / Christian / Mystery

Published by- Lion Fiction

Copyrighted- 2017

Number of pages- 286

Age Group- Adult

Branigan Powers is off to solve another crime.  This time it’s personal, her niece, Charlie, and her friend have been in a tragic car accident.  Charlie was badly injured, and her friend was killed.  Charlie thinks they were run off the road by an old hearse, the police think it was an accident.

Branigan and her friend, Malachi, are determined to learn the truth.  The clues lead them to a nearby university and several sororities.  Soon another young lady is killed.  Will Branigan and Malachi find the murderer?  Is Charlie’s life in danger?

About the Author-

Deb Richardson-Moore is currently a pastor in South Carolina.  She has been a journalist and worked with the homeless.  Her website is www.debrichardsonmoore.com.

My thoughts-

I know I often say that I can’t put a book down, but I really couldn’t put this one down.  I took myself to a people and animal free room, shut the door, and finished reading the book.  I did not want to be disturbed.

I liked how Branigan teamed worked again with Malachi, who is homeless.  It’s interesting how Richardson-Moore shows the invisibility of homeless, but shows that everyone’s perception of them is wrong.  They do pay attention to what you do and they are wonderful at helping in times of trouble.

I read a lot of mysteries.  I thought that it was great that Branigan could get away with look for clues, since she was a reporter.  It sure helps to solve crimes when they involve family members, if all you’re doing is looking for your next big story.

I would like to see more involvement with Pastor Liam and God in future stories.  Pastor Liam plays an important part, but his role as a pastor and advocating for God doesn’t seem as important.

I can’t wait for another book in the series to see what the memorable characters are up to.  I highly recommend this series.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Cover Story, by Deb Richardson-Moore, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Runaway by Claire Wong (Book Review!)

The Runaway

by Claire Wong

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Fiction

Published by- Lion Fiction

Copyrighted- 2017

Number of pages- 304

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-1-78264-242-8

Rhiannon has decided to runaway to the Dyrys Woods near her Welsh village of Llandymna.  Shortly before she turns eighteen she leaves to make a new life.  Her aunt and the other villages wonder where she has gone.  They spend a lot of time lookin in the woods trying to find her, but they are unable to.  Rhiannon doesn’t like living alone, but she thinks of the stories that the village storyteller, Maebh, has told her and the other villagers for years.

While Rhiannon is away the village begins to unweave as Rhiannon’s disappearance causes tension to build and secrets begin to surface.  Who are the two strangers?  Why are the villagers so hard on each other?  How will they find Rhiannon?    

About the Author-

Claire Wong currently lives in Yorkshire where she shares inspiring stories through articles, press releases, and newsletters at her job in charity communications.  This is her first novel.

My thoughts-

I enjoyed reading The Runaway.  I could feel Claire Wong’s storytelling ability.  I was drawn into Rhiannon’s story and then that of the villagers.  I liked how Wong made ordinary lives seem extraodinary.  I could feel the power of Maebh’s storytelling and the daily and long time struggles of the people of the village.  It was like I was there and I could feel the magic.  There wasn’t any, but I could certainly feel it. 

This book wouldn’t have been the same if the point-of-view hadn’t changed back and forth between that of Rhiannon and the village.  It wouldn’t have had the depth and range that it did.  I was able to learn about, appreciate, and learn from all of the characters.

The end of the book had study questions and a short interview by Wong.  I learned that she likes some of the same books I do, like The Princess Bride and Winnie-the-Pooh.

I recommend reading this book.  I’m looking forward to reading more books by Wong.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Runaway, by Claire Wong, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Transformed by Christy Wimber (Book Review!)

Transformed

by Christy Wimber

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Nonfiction / Christian

Published by- Monarch Books

Copyrighted- 2017

Number of pages- 224

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $16.99, ISBN 978-0-85721-812-4

As humans we are to yield daily to God.  He has the power to renew and transform us.

This book is based around Romans 12:1-8.  Each chapter begins with a quote or Bible verse that’s relevant to the chapter.  The chapters focus on subjects such as always worshipping, renewing our minds, and what grace means in this century.

About the Author-

Christy Wimber had her husband currently live in California and have two children.  She is a pastor, author, and speaker.  In 2006 she planted a Vineyard Church.  She travels around the world teaching and equipping the Church.

My thoughts-

I felt encouraged as I read Transformed.  The chapter I liked the best dealt with what grace looks like in this century. Christy Wimber did a good job of tying biblical ideas into what happens in our world today. 

There are some thing that I would like to see added to this book

• I would like to see each chapter have a summary.  When a book is nonfiction, chapter summaries help me remember the chapter better.
• Discussion questions for each chapter would be fun and helpful too.  The questions would make this book good for group study.

This is a book that will be relevant for many years to come.  I highly recommend it to those in high school and also adults. 

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Transformed, by Christy Wimber, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Local Poet by Paul Trembling (Book Review

Local Poet

By Paul Trembling

(received in exchange for an honest review)

 

Genre- Fiction / Suspense / Mystery

Published by- Lion Fiction

Copyrighted- 2016

Number of pages- 176

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN: 978-1-78264-230-5

Laney Grey walked out in front of Rob Seaton’s van.  He isn’t able to stop, and she dies on impact.  He wants to learn more about her and what made her do it.  To learn more about her he needs to understand her poetry and learn about her past.

Will he be able to understand her poetry?  Why is his life now in danger?

About the Author-

Paul Trembling has always been telling stories.  He has been a missionary, janitor, seaman, and a crime scene investigator. 

My Thoughts-

Paul Trembling has written a spellbinding book, bound to capture your attention to the end.  You will learn more and more about Rob and Laney. because of Trembling’s storytelling ability. 

When I write poetry it’s straight forward, but I’ve read poetry like Laney’s, so I knew what Rob was going through.  It can be hard to read something, then try to get the true meaning of it.  I was impressed that Rob was able to keep going and learn more and more about her work. 

My favorite part of the book happened during day five when he had to escape from his house by going through his neighbors backyards.  It was funny when he was walking on the garden wall in the dark and trying not to slip, but he does.  He also has to go through a neighbors house to get away from the reporters.

I liked having the table of contents, so I could find the chapter I was looking for.  I enjoyed reading the first chapter of the next book, Local Artist.  It looks like a very interesting book. 

I recommend it!  Since the main character is a man, I think men will especially appreciate it.    

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Local Poet, by Paul Trembling, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Alabaster by Chris Aslan (Book Review!)

Alabaster

By Chris Aslan

(received in exchange for an honest review)

 

Genre- Fiction / History

Published by- Lion Fiction

Copyrighted- 2016

Number of pages- 208

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN: 978-1-78264-228-2

Maryam and the rest of her family are living in a overly religious village in the first-century Middle East..  Her father helps a dying leper and contracts the disease himself.  He’s exiled from the village, but is able to leave an alabaster jar of an expensive perfume, given to him by that leper.  Maryam and her brother and sister experience shame because of their father.  Maryam lives with her in-laws in an abusive marriage, her brother has left the village, and her sister lives alone.

Will they ever feel hope again?  Who is this mysterious doctor that everyone has been hearing about?

About the Author-

Chris Aslan currently studies in Oxford, guides tours around Central Asia, and lectures on textiles.  He grew up in Beirut.  He has written a book, A Carpet Ride to Khiva: Seven Years on the Silk Road, about life in Uzbekistan.  

My Thoughts-

Alabaster was an interesting book.  I don’t know a lot about the first-century Middle East, but I feel that I learned a lot about what society could be like.

I discovered that during this time, women didn’t have much of a say in their own lives.  Maryam was raped, became pregnant, and had to marry the man, who then abused her.  It wasn’t until much later, when the doctor/teacher came that she finally was able to have some hope. 

The storytelling was done so well that I felt I was there with Maryam and her family.  I could feel their hope and their pain.  I think that women will especially enjoy this book, because they can learn how the teacher can help them with any pain in their lives.

I recommend it!    

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Alabaster, by Chris Aslan, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Would you like to know? Collection by Tim Dowley and illustrated by Eira Reeves (Book Review!)

Would you like to know? Collection

By Tim Dowley

Illustrated by Eira Reeves

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Christian / Juvenile /

Published by- Candle Books an imprint of Lion Hudson

Copyrighted- 2017

Number of pages- 168

Age Group- Young children (3-5)

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $12.99, ISBN 978-1-78128-327-1

This is a six book collection of picture books about different aspects of Christian life:

• the Bible
• Easter
• Prayer
• God
• Christmas
• Jesus

for young children.  Each book has an inscription section, fun illustrations, and a note for parents.  All the books can be stored in the sturdy cardboard containers that comes with the collection.

About the Author-

Tim Dowly writes and edits a new set of resources on biblical studies and church history.

About the Illustrator-

Eira Reeves currently lives on the Isle of Wight.  She has illustrated over 85 titles over the past 30 years.

My thoughts-

This was a cute and fun collection of books about Christianity.  I really liked all of the books.  The illustrations were eye catching and the text was perfect for young children. 

The book I thought could be better was about Jesus.  I didn’t think the part about God needed to be in there.  I thought that more could be included about Jesus’s life here on earth and his teachings. 

I liked that each book has some of the same characters.  I liked seeing the cat and the girl with the blue polka dot bow. 

This collection of books will help children become more interested in learning about Christianity.  I recommend it. 

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received the Would you like to Know Collection, by Tim Dowley and illustrated by Eira Reeves, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour. All links were current when posted. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Deep Water by Christine Poulson (Book Review!)

Deep Water: One Mistake and You’re Drowning

By Christine Poulson

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Fiction / Christian / Thriller

Published by- Lion Fiction

Copyrighted- 2016

Number of pages- 252

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-1-78264-214-5

An important lab book is missing.  The lawyer who was working on a case for Calliope Biotech is dead. 

Daniel Marchmont, patent lawyer, agrees to take the case.  Katie Flanagan works for the company and thinks that something unethical is happening.  Daniel and his wife are hoping that the results from the study will help cure their daughter from a genetic disord.

What will happen?  Will more people die?  Who is guilty?

About the Author-

Christine Poulson currently lives in in Derbyshire with her family.  She has a PhD after studying English Literature and Art History at the University of Leicester.  She has been a curator and a lecturer.  She has written fiction and non-fiction.

My thoughts-

The cover of the book can often sell or not sell the book.  Personally I didn’t like the cover of the book.  I thought the illustration of a needle and blood didn’t match with the title, Deep Water.  It made me not want to read the book.  I just ignored the cover of the book and just started reading.

I thought Deeper Water was very good about showing the way people truly are and can be.  Honor was all about having the results she wanted, not those that were right.  The person that I thought was guilty, Will, wasn’t.  He was a hero.

I liked how the Rachel and Katie were persistent  in pursuing the mystery.  They needed to learn about what happened to the lab book and who was harming the lab.  We need to always remember that even if people do wrong we need to forgive them.

Deep Water was an interesting book.  I would recommend it.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Deep Water, by Christine Poulson, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Oswiu: King of Kings by Edoardo Albert (Book Review!)

Oswiu: King of Kings (Book 3 of The Northumbrian Thrones)

By Edoardo Albert

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Fiction / Christian / Historical

Published by- Lion Fiction

Copyrighted- 2015

Number of pages- 560

Age Group- Adult (Men especially)

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $16.99, ISBN 978-1-78264-118-6

Penda King of Mercia has killed Oswald King of Bernicia.  He wants to kill Oswiu, Oswald’s brother.  He isn’t able to.  He strings parts of Oswald’s body up, and that spot becomes sacred.  Oswiu sets off on a mission to bring Oswald’s body back.  He succeeds, but Penda and Oswiu are even more bitter enemies than before.

Who will live?  What will happen with their children?

This book also contains a synopsis for books one and two, a list of characters, glossary, and a historical note.

About the Author-

Edoardo Albert has written for Time Out, History Today, and Minerva.  He is also a historian.

My thoughts-

One of my favorite time periods to read and learn about is the 1800 American West.  My other favorite time period to read and learn about is the time around when King Arthur could have lived. 

Oswiu: King of Kings, was interesting.  I enjoyed learning more about one of my favorite time periods.  I did think that this book was a bit long.  I personally found the first 200 pages to take a long time to read.  It was after Oswiu married Eanflaed that it became more interesting. 

I enjoyed the historical note at the end of the book.  It was fun learning about the history that this novel was based on.  I found the character list a great help.  I needed it to help keep everyone straight, because a lot of the names seemed the same.  The map and pronunciation guide were helpful as well.  I was grateful for the synopses of Edwin: High King of Britain and Oswald: Return of the King.  I appreciate it when authors put them in their book series. 

My favorite character in this book was Oswine.  He had the opportunity to change history by killing Eanflaed.  He didn’t he listen to his conscience and to Aidan.  Albert did a wonderful job of writing this book from a historical point-of-view.  I highly recommend it.

Here is my review of Edwin: High King of Britain.

Here is my review of Oswald: Return of the King.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Oswiu: King of Kings, by Edoardo Albert, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Seven Stories that Shape Your Life: Discover Your God Given Purpose by Gerard Kelly (Book Review!)

The Seven Stories that Shape Your Life: Discover Your God Given Purpose

By Gerard Kelly

(received in exchange for an honest review)

 

Genre- Nonfiction / Christian Living

Published by- Monarch Books and Lion Hudson

Copyrighted- 2016

Number of pages- 336

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN: 978-0-85721-634-2

Do you ever wonder what your purpose is on this earth?  This book will help you begin to discover it.  Gerard Kelly has chapters about creation, vocation, limitation, formation, incarnation, and restoration.  It shows how to begin to connect with God and utilize the stories in the Bible.

About the Author-

Gerard Kelly and his wife live in France, where they are co-founders of the Bless Network.  He has written eighteen books.

My Thoughts-

This was a book that was filled with good and helpful information about learning my purpose in a life with God.  As I was reading I folded over many page corners, so I could go back and explore the given information.  I want to make sure that the information I was reading was biblically sound.  What I found was great.

I thought the chapters were really long.  I wish they were divided up into smaller chapters.  I did like the divisions in each chapter.  I think that since the chapters are more involved, that a longer summary at the end would be nice.  I did appreciate the summary that was there.  I would have also enjoyed having discussion questions.  Being able to think about and question what I read would be helpful. 

This was a good book.  I highly recommend it to everyone.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Seven Stories that Shape Your Life, by Gerard Kelly, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Kill Fee by Fiona Veitch Smith (Book Review!)

The Kill Fee

Book Two of Poppy Denby Investigates

By Fiona Veitch Smith

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Historical Fiction / Christian / Mystery

Published by- Lion Fiction

Copyrighted- 2016

Number of pages- 320

Age Group- Adult 

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-1-78264-218-3

Poppy’s job as the new Arts and Entertainment Editor at The Daily Globe is going well.  There is an exhibition of Russian art at the Crystal Palace.  While she is there a guard is injured and a Faberge Egg is missing.  Soon after the exhibition several people are murdered.  People Poppy knows are some of the suspects. 

Will her job help her solve the murders, or will it put her in danger?

About the Author-

Fiona Veitch Smith currently teaches at Newcastle University.  She was formerly a journalist in South Africa and the United Kingdom.

My thoughts-

This book was filled with just as much excitement as the first one.  Poppy, Daniel, and Rollo were busy trying to get the news stories and solve the murders.  It certainly helped that they were in the newspaper business, so they knew how to ask the right questions and were inquisitive.  Poppy really enjoys getting all the details and solving the mystery.  I like the way she thinks.

There were extras that I appreciate.  I like the 1920s map of London, the list of characters, a historical note, and the list of books and links to more information about this time period.  I was glad that Smith told what she changed, so I wouldn’t assume what wasn’t true. 

There was the continuing romance with Daniel, the photographer from The Daily Globe, so I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.  I want to know if their relationship will grow or not. 

I recommend The Kill Fee to you.  I hope you enjoy it.  You don’t really need to read first book in the series first, but I do suggest you do read it at some point. 

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Kill Fee, by Fiona Veitch Smith, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Taking My God for a Walk by Tony Collins (Book Review!)

Taking My God for a Walk: A Publisher on a Pilgrimage

By Tony Collins

(received in exchange for an honest review)

 

Genre- Nonfiction / Christian Living / Pilgrimage

Published by- Monarch Books and Lion Hudson

Copyrighted- 2016

Number of pages- 249

Age Group- Adult (Men)

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $16.99, ISBN: 978-0-85721-773-8

The Camino is 490 miles long and goes from the French border to Santiago de Compostela in northern Spain.  Tony Collins decide to take a pilgrimage on that route.  It was an hard physical and spiritual journey, but it proved to be a journey filled with new friendships and spiritual examination. 

About the Author-

Tony Collins started Monarch Books and other imprints.  He has been in publishing for over forty years.

My Thoughts-

I enjoy reading travel books.  When they are based on a spiritual journey, they are even better.  I have read other books like this that weren’t spiritual journeys, think Bill Bryson, but this one was better.  There were no swear word.  I also learned about the religious culture of the area. 

The only thing I would change about this book would be the map.  I would like to see a map at the beginning of each chapter that showed the little towns that were discussed in the chapter.

This was a good book.  I highly recommend it to everyone.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Taking My God for a Walk, by Tony Collins, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Death in the Shadows by Paul McCusker (Book Review!)

Death in the Shadows

(A Father Gilbert Mystery, Book 2)

By Paul McCusker

(received in exchange for an honest review)

 

Genre- Fiction / Mystery

Published by- Lion Fiction

Copyrighted- 2016

Number of pages- 302

Age Group- Adult (Men)

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-1-78264-122-3

Father Gilbert used to be a Scotland Yard detective.  He is now a priest at St. Mark’s in a small Sussex town.  As a detective, he has experienced death.  He didn’t expect it to follow him to Englesea and a church conference.

Englesea has a strong illegal sex trade, and the people in charge are fighting to dominate.  The victims are being traded across borders and in London.  Now someone has died.  

Will Father Gilbert get involved with the case?  Is there a sinister force involved?   

About the Author-

Paul McCusker currently lives in Colorado.  He has written many novels and audio dramas.  He has written books for Adventures in Odyssey and The Imagination Station Series.  The Father Gilbert Mysteries originally began as an audio drama series.

My thoughts-

I like reading mysteries.  I’m not sure about this series though, because Father Gilbert sees ghosts and something called the Shadow Man.  I know there are evil spirits in the world, but I’m not sure how much I enjoy reading about it.  It’s something to think about before you read the book. 

Death in the Shadows was well written.  There was a lot of detail, and the characters were well developed.  I wasn’t sure who was the murderer.  I didn’t even have any ideas, so I wasn’t sure until the end.  I like it when it is hard to figure out who did it.  I really didn’t see this one coming. 

On the whole I thought this was a good book.  I think it would be a good book for men.  I know that some women would enjoy it as well.

Happy reading!

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Death in the Shadows, by Paul McCusker, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Lucifer’s Harvest by Mel Starr (Book Review!)

Lucifer’s Harvest (Book 9, The Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton, surgeon)

By Mel Starr

(received in exchange for an honest review)

 

Genre- Historical Fiction / Mystery

Published by- Lion Fiction

Copyrighted- 2016

Number of pages- 160

Age Group- Adult 

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-1-78264-188-9

Lord Gilbert Talbert and his soldiers need to go to Prince Edward in France.  Hugh de Singleton needs to go along as his surgeon.  Along the way, Hugh’s wife’s old beau, Sir Simon Trillowe, and his group join everyone.  Sir Simon holds a grudge against Hugh and has even burned his house, so Hugh knows he needs be aware of his surroundings.  Sir Simon has been known to try to hurt Hugh.

It turns out that it was Sir Simon who should have been more aware of his surroundings.  Hugh needs to find out who killed Trillowe, because he is being blamed.

About the Author-

Mel Starr and his wife have seven grandchildren and two daughters.  Starr grew up in Michigan and taught history in the Michigan public school system for 39 years.  He knows a lot about medieval English medieval surgery.  He currently lives in Michigan

My thoughts-

I haven’t read the first three books in this series.  I have thoroughly enjoyed reading Unhallowed Ground, The Tainted Coin, Rest Not in Peace, The Abbot's Agreement, Ashes to Ashes, and Lucifer’s Harvest.  I like that each one is a mystery, focuses on an early time period (late 1300's), and each book is well written. 

While this book was shorter than many of the other ones, it didn’t disappoint.  Hugh was able to help people and solve Sir Simon’s murder.  I like how Lord Gilbert is always there for Hugh.  He is always doing what he can for Hugh and his family, whether they are near or far. 

One of the best parts of the book is still the glossary.  It has been one my favorite sections in each book.  I enjoyed reading and learning about the clothing, food, and times of the year.  This section helps me learn about a time period I don’t know much about.

Hugh is certainly dedicated.  He is determined to find out who the dead man is and why he died.  I like his determination.  We all need to have his persistence and desire to make sure all wrongs are righted. 

I think this is an excellent book and series.  I’m looking forward to the next book, Deeds of Darkness. 

Readers who enjoy mysteries and/or historical fiction will enjoy this book.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Lucifer’s Harvest, by Mel Starr, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Candle Day by Day: Bible by Juliet David and illustrated by Jane Heyes

Candle Day by Day: Bible

By Juliet David

Illustrated by Jane Heyes

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Christian / Juvenile /

Published by- Candle Books

Copyrighted- 2016

Number of pages- 368

Age Group- Young children (5-7)

Description of book- hardback, listed price- $16.99, ISBN 978-1-78128-281-6

This is a flip calendar edition of the Bible, which has won Children’s Book of the Year; CRT Awards 2015.  There are accounts of Jesus, Jacob, Elijah, and others from the Bible.

The language is easy for young children to understand.  The illustrations are subtle and relevant to the daily devotion.

About the Author-

Juliet David lives in London with her family. She has written Bible activity books and children’s stories. She enjoys traveling to Israel and other Bible lands.

About the Illustrator-

Jane Heyes currently lives in the South of France.  She has established her own publishing company.  Her artwork has been in children’s books, ceramics, textiles, wall art, and more.

My thoughts-

This flip calendar is perfect for young children to begin to know the Bible.  Each day they can either read or have the story read to them while they look at the illustration.  I think that it would have been nice to have if each day had the relevant Bible verses next to it.  Some children might enjoy knowing more about the story.

I also would have enjoyed a day of the month not just a number of the year.  My daughter and I had to use the computer to find out what number matched our date.

I enjoyed reading the text and looking at the illustrations in this book.  I think the young children in your life would like it too.  It would make a good present.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Candle Day by Day: Bible, by Juliet David and illustrated by Jane Heyes, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour. All links were current when posted. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Candle Day by Day: Walk with Jesus by Juliet David and illustrated by Jane Heyes

Candle Day by Day: Walk with Jesus

By Juliet David

Illustrated by Jane Heyes

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Christian / Juvenile /

Published by- Candle Books

Copyrighted- 2016

Number of pages- 48

Age Group- Young children (young readers)

Description of book- hardback, listed price- $9.99, ISBN 978-1-78128-291-5

This book contains 40 days of readings to help young children learn more about Jesus.  For each day there is a Bible verse, question, and short story.  The Bible verses come from different versions of the Bible.  The different readings are based on the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

The language is easy enough for toddlers to understand and simple enough for younger readers.  The illustrations are subtle, but realistic, and come off the page.

About the Author-

Juliet David lives in London with her family. She has written Bible activity books and children’s stories. She enjoys traveling to Israel and other Bible lands.

About the Illustrator-

Jane Heyes currently lives in the South of France.  She has established her own publishing company.  Her artwork has been in children’s books, ceramics, textiles, wall art, and more.

My thoughts-

I liked the story, Bible verses, and questions in this book.  I feel that David did a good job of including the most important parts of Jesus’s life. 

I thought that the illustrations were subtle, but captivating.  They will keep a young child interested while the short story is being read to them.  You’ll want to make sure you have your Bible on hand, because you might need it to answer some of the questions.  Your young child might have more questions about the story as well.

There are some of the stories that you might want to add to, because there just wasn’t enough space for David to add enough information.  Those readings that needed more involved the end of Jesus’s life on this Earth. 

I enjoyed reading the text and looking at the illustrations in this book.  I think the young children in your life would like it too.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Candle Day by Day: Walk with Jesus, by Juliet David and illustrated by Jane Heyes, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour. All links were current when posted. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

End of the Roadie by Elizabeth Flynn (Book Review!)

End of the Roadie: A Mystery for D.I. Costello

By Elizabeth Flynn

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Fiction / Christian / Mystery

Published by- Lion Hudson

Copyrighted- 2016

Number of pages- 204

Age Group- Adult 

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN 978-1-78264-205-3

Oliver Joplin is found murdered after Brendan Phelan’s  rock concert.  The show was full of bass, guitars, cracking whips, and the sounds of gunshots.  Detective Inspector Angela Costello and her team are called to investigate.  They soon discover that very few people liked or trusted Joplin.  He had a lot of shady deals.  Who could have killed him?

About the Author-

Elizabeth Flynn has written Game, Set, and Murder and Dead Gorgeous.  She currently lives in London and has experience in theater in stage management and as an actress.

My thoughts-

This book was intriguing.  I had a hard time putting it down.  It was one of those books that I couldn’t read before going to bed, because I wouldn’t be sleeping until late in the night.  I didn’t expect those who were guilty to be guilty.  I was kept guessing until the end.  The relationships between the main characters grew in this book.  Detective Constable Gary Houseman and Angela grew closer, because they worked together, and he dated her stepdaughter.  They worked well and were able to solve the murder with the help of their team.  

I enjoyed reading a mystery where the D.I. was a woman and one of the main characters.  I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys mysteries.  I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series. 

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received End of the Roadie, by Elizabeth Flynn, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Name I Call Myself by Beth Moran (Book Review!)

The Name I Call Myself

By Beth Moran

(received in exchange for an honest review)

 

Genre- Fiction / Christian

Published by- Lion Fiction

Copyrighted- 2015

Number of pages- 351

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN: 978-1-78264-207-7

Faith has a wonderfully rich and handsome boyfriend, who she is engaged to marry, soon.  Her future mother-in-law in trying to do all the wedding plans, totally unlike the way Faith wants it to be, especially the dress.

Faith knows exactly the way she would like her wedding and goes to her mother’s church to talk to the minister about holding a small ceremony there.  She doesn’t expect to find  someone who will make her feel safe.  She has secrets that many people don’t know.

Will she stay engaged?  Will her secrets stay hidden?

About the Author-

Beth Moran currently lives in Nottingham with her three children and husband.  She helps lead a national women’s network, Free Range Chicks.

My Thoughts-

This was a delightful book.  I couldn’t put it down.  I just had to read it until the end.  The characters, Faith, Marilyn, and the others became like sisters to me as I read their story.  I could feel Faith’s pain over her engagement and the trouble with her brother.  I could feel the support from Marilyn and the rest of the women from her mother’s church.  Moran made me feel hope for the future.   That no matter the struggles in our lives, there is always hope.  We can look forward to the next day.  Support of friends is also very important.  We can more easily have hope if we have the support of wonderful friends.

I also liked the reading guide questions at the back of the book.  They made me think.

If you liked Making Marion and I Hope You Dance, you’ll like this one too.  You don’t need the other books to read this one!

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received The Name I Call Myself, by Beth Moran, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

A Day and a Life by Penolope Wilcock (Book Review!)

A Day and a Life

The Hawk and the Dove Series, Book 9

By Penelope Wilcock

(received in exchange for an honest review)

 

Genre- Fiction / Christian / Historical

Published by- Lion Hudson

Copyrighted- 2016

Number of pages- 221

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN: 978-1-78264-200-8

Brother Cedd has vanished.  Nobody knows where he has gone, and he doesn’t know how he has affected those he has left behind. 

As everyone else goes about their day they wonder about him, but they also know that each of them has their own part to do at St. Alcuin.  What will happen if he returns?  Will he return? 

About the Author-

Penelope Wilcock currently lives in England with her family.  She is a writer and is a former Methodist minister.  Her blog is Kindred of the Quiet Way.

My Thoughts-

Penelope Wilcock is a talented writer.  I have enjoyed all the books in The Hawk and the Dove series.  I was sad when I read the back of the book, and it said it was the end of the series.  I have been drawn into each of the books, so I’m able to remember the monks from one book to another.  It is inspiring to watch them learn from each other and God, then grow.

As I finished this book, I realized that in each of these books I have taken life lessons that were important in my life at the time.  I learned about what each of the monks did in a typical day, but along the way they thought different things and sometimes had small conflicts with each other.  Their lives aren’t that much different than ours in the 21st century.  We need to be kind to others.  We also shouldn’t focus on our weaknesses, but our strengths.

I would recommend this book and the rest of the series to others.  There are life lessons and good information about 14th century monasteries.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received A Day and a Life, by Penelope Wilcock, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Fifth Column by Mike Hollow (Book Review!)

Fifth Column (The Blitz Detective, Book 2)

By Mike Hollow

(received in exchange for an honest review)

Genre- Fiction / Suspense

Published by- Lion Fiction

Copyrighted- 2016

Number of pages- 336

Age Group- Adult

Description of book- paperback, listed price- $14.99, ISBN: 978-1-78264-186-5

We are taken back to the time of the London Blitz during WW II in Fifth Column, by Mike Hollow.

D.I. Jago is back to solver another mystery.  After a night raid, the body of a young woman is found.  She has no identity and can’t be tied to the area, so D.I. Jago is called in.  He quickly learns that her name was Mary Watkins and was strangled.  She worked for an engineering company which is now missing chemicals.

Is she to blame for the theft?  Who killed her?  And will the romance between D.I. Jago and the American reporter, Miss Dorothy Appleton. 

About the Author-

Mike Hollow currently lives in Hampshire with his wife.  He has worked for the BBC and Tearfund.  He is a freelance writer and editor.

My thoughts-

One of my favorite genres to read is mysteries, so I was excited when I was given the chance to read Fifth Column, the second book in the series.

While I enjoyed trying to figure out who killed Mary Watkins, my favorite part of the book was learning all the little interesting tidbits about the London area in 1940.  It helped me to know and feel what it was like for those in the area at the time.  I didn’t know that they had Dig for Victory gardens (vegetable gardens), similar to our Victory gardens in the States.  I didn’t know that there were people who liked Hitler in England and wanted to be a part of his world.  It was interesting that there were the superstitions like “knock and wood” and that a magpie by itself means bad luck.  Those superstitions came from a lady from Scotland. 

I liked the map of the area in the front of the book, but I would like to see a list of characters in future books.  I kept getting the characters mixed up.  The acknowledgements were interesting, because I learned that this mystery was based on a 1939 trial about a man who tried to extort money by threatening to accuse someone of spying for Germany. 

I enjoyed learning more about Detective Inspector John Jago and meeting new characters in this book.  Fifth Column stands alone, but it is still a good idea to read Direct Hit first.  I look forward to reading more books by Mike Hollow.

Disclosure of Material Connection- I received Fifth Column, by Mike Hollow, for free from the Kregel Publications’ Blog Tour.  All links were current when posted.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own or those of my family.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.