Christian Fiction Reviews

The Guardian Duke by Jamie Carrie

2012-02-19T15:44:00.000-08:00

Mystery and Romance, the perfect blend

Determined to find her missing parents, yet unschooled in the ways of the world, Alexandria unwittingly puts her life in peril. Intervention, by an unlikely protector, guides her single-minded quest. The Duke, unwavering in his mission to find and help his young ward, is thwarted at every turn.

Jamie’s writing is full of vivid description that fills the imagination, characters with power and a story to keep you reading until midnight!

This will be a great series. I look forward to the next book.

Heart’s Safe Passage by Laurie Eakes

2012-02-19T13:57:00.000-08:00

Voyage of Change

A British privateer, headed across the Atlantic, left London County Virginia far behind. Captain Rafe Docherty, revenge foremost in his mind, is laden with emotional turmoil. Kidnapped, tied, and steaming mad, Phoebe Lee is determined to free herself at all costs. Just ask the men who brought her aboard. Held against her will but resolute to stay with her patient, her pregnant sister in law, her dilemma is complicated.

Well written with lots of action. Fiery exchanges between Rafe and Phoebe ignite their tempers and challenge their self control. Dark enemies, lurking within, make this a high seas adventure you won’t want to miss!

“Available February 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

The River Queen by Gilbert Morris

2012-02-07T17:01:00.000-08:00

Destitute but determined!

Set in the 1850’s, The River Queen could be played out in today’s society. When a fortune is lost and family members are left to pick up the pieces it is never an easy task. Julianne Ashby is out of her comfort zone and then some. Their only hope lies in an old steamboat she trusts can be restored. However, the man recommended for the job is not to her liking but for the survival of her family she hires Dallas Bronte, a man of questionable character, to be the captain. They labor is intense and all must work together, but when financial needs exceed their capitol the outcome is devastating. With many prayers for help and guidance, will the providence of the Lord save the day?

Well written, with characters you’ll relate to, and rarely a dull moment. Exciting, unpredictable, and explosive.

Shadows of Brierley - The Wanderer by Anita Stansfield

2012-01-26T18:43:00.000-08:00

Second Chances

When Ian awakes from a drunken stupor in a deserted London alley, he is thankful to be alive. “Dear God,” he says aloud. “Help me.” Ian wanders near a crowd and hears words of hope that draw him forward. Ian lingers after the crowd disperses and talks with the preachers. “Might I purchase a copy of your book?” he enquires. His purchase is made quickly and Ian stuffs the book with his other few belongings. Filled with a longing to return home, to make right the wrongs of the past, he spends the last of his funds for the passage by coach.
This is a story of forgiveness, love, redemption and starting over. When Ian is making positive steps, more challenges surface and the struggles increase.

The Wanderer is the first book in the Shadows of Brierley Series. I can’t wait to read the rest!

Along Wooded Paths by Tricia Goyer

2012-01-02T14:48:00.000-08:00

A Wavering Heart

Surrounded by remote mountains in Montana, where the Amish and “Englich” mingle, Marianna’s heart is pulled in two directions. Aaron offers a secure love within the realms of the Amish faith. Ben, an “Englicher”, has shown Marianna’s new ways to draw close to God. His kindness to her family and others is deeply valued. He offers his heart and a simple life.

This is a delightful story, filled with the struggles of young love and the consequences of choice and accountability. It is one of closed doors opened to serve one another in a closed knot community. The characters are well rounded, full of emotion, and there is plenty of adventure to keep the pages turning.

Letters in the The Jade Dragon Box by Gale Sears

2011-12-30T13:53:00.000-08:00

What the heart remembers…

Letters in the Jade Dragon Box is set between memories of the Mao Tes-tung years in China and the time following his death. Chen Wen-shan, now 15, can’t remember anything before she was sent to live with her great uncle in Hong Kong. A mysterious letter is received. A trip to a large home and a gift of a Jade box, with voices from the past, will forever change their lives.

The story is well written and easy to visualize. The unique characters bring variety and realism to the story. Based on real life events, you have the opportunity to experience some of the most devastating events in China’s history and the results of the cruelty.

Excellent work of historical fiction.

Healing Hearts by Beth Wiseman

2011-11-21T21:01:00.000-08:00

Tales to reach your heart

These three, wonderful, Amish stories will surly find a place in your heart.

A Choice to Forgive is about loss, love and starting over. A mighty change from within transpires when past memories become reality. A Change of Heart is about learning to accept who we are and enjoying the gifts with which we have been blessed. Recognizing new feelings of the heart can change the world around us. Healing Hearts entangles forgiveness, understanding, and love mixed up with misunderstandings, misjudgments, and the deep desire to rediscover that which was lost.

Great reading for Christian Romance lovers.

Out of Control by Mary Connealy

2011-11-13T09:42:00.000-08:00

The Kincaid Brides Book 1

When the past meets the future, what’s to come?

Stubborn, determined, and bossy, describes both Rafe Kincaid and Julia Gilliland. Rafe, determined to protect Julia and her family and Julia, with an indomitable spirit, refusing his assistance. Boy do the sparks fly!

Set in the wilds of Colorado in times long past, Mary’s story line will keep you guessing with each turn of the page. Her characters have plenty of challenges from the past that come back with stark reality.

This is a great story for an afternoon read. So saddle up, bring your guns, and off we’ll ride!

A Heart Revealed by Julie Lessman

2011-09-23T13:30:00.000-07:00

Soap Opera in a Book...

This story was well written with plenty of detail, imaginative characters, and thought provoking situations.

The summary on the back of the book sounded apealing, about Emma and Sean and what the future might hold for them. However, the sheer amount of individuals introduced in the first chapter set my head spinning. The chapters jump from one struggle to another. It was distracting and I lost real interest when the main characters, Emma and Sean, seemed to loose their priority standing.

It was like trying to understand a "soap opera" without the help of a TV.

Available September 2011 at your favorite Bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing

Courageous - Honor Begins at Home

2011-08-21T14:02:00.000-07:00

Novelization by: Randy Alcorn

Amazing, Enlightening, Thought Provoking!

The life of a deputy sheriff is no easy job. It requires split-second judgment, level headed confidence, and a genuine concern for the public they serve. Courageous takes a deep look into the lives of four deputies, their choices in life, their wives, their children and their friends.

The writing is very realistic and believable and gives the reader a front row seat to the drama that is everyday life for them. The amazing stories emphasize life threatening situations on a daily basis and how easily their life’s focus can alter their family life.

The characters are well written with distinct personalities, ups and downs, and struggles that many in today’s world face. Their development and growth is influenced by their desire to make life better by starting within their own families.

There are valuable lessons for all in this book, but especially for fathers who want to “man-up” and make a difference to those they love and serve.

A perfect gift for fathers, young or old.

The Colonel’s Lady by Laura Frantz

2011-08-13T11:56:00.000-07:00

Vividly Written Historical Romance.

Thrust into a life style foreign to her up bringing, Roxanna Rowan arrives at the end of the wilderness, unprepared for the dangers and heartache that lay ahead. Roxanna’s endurance and faith will be greatly tested. Will she rise to the occasion or lament her choices.

The writing is vivid, alive, and addicting. Her characters are distinctive, have prominent voices and will stick in your heart.

The agony of war, the struggle for freedom and a gentle touch of faith make The Colonel’s Lady one of the best books I’ve read this year.

Don't Miss Laura's Interview on The Readers Cove Interviews!

"Available August 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group"

The Blessed by Ann Gabhart

2011-07-10T09:05:00.000-07:00

A Dose of “Shakerism”

If you desire to learn about the Shaker ways, The Blessed will give you a deep insight into their way of life, beliefs and their views of the outside world.

Set in the mid 1840’s you are introduced to Isaac, a troubled young man. Coming from a broken home the death of his father weighs heavy on his shoulders. He also bares the burden of his wife’s recent death. Distraught and wanting his sorrow to end he encounters a kind Shaker brother who invites him to find peace in their Shaker ways.

Young Lacey’s troubles began when she was sent to live with a preacher to help tend his ailing wife who passes away. Her greatest joy has been to help mother and raise Rachel, an infant left on the preacher’s porch. But life’s twists and turns find Lacey reluctantly living among the Shakers, torn from her daughter because it is their way.

Isaac and Lacy find the Shaker ways unnatural and are unable to embrace their beliefs wholeheartedly. Their attraction to each other is forbidden. Will they ever find the peace they seek or will it slip through the cracks of the Shaker existence?

I found the characters well developed and their struggles realistic. The writing was clear and descriptions easily visualized. For my own personal taste there was too much Shakerism and not enough interaction between Isaac and Lacey to grow a believable relationship.

Available July 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Martha by Diana Taylor

2011-06-27T13:23:00.000-07:00

Beautifully Written…

The reader is instantly transported to New Testament times and quickly immersed in period context. Vivid descriptions of places, dress, and behavior fill your mind. You have the opportunity to understand the type of life Martha would have lived and the challenges she faced. You can feel her struggles as she chooses the needs of others over her own and devotes her life to serving. Her encounters with Jesus are well presented and the scriptural content appears accurate.

A wonderful look into the life of women in the New Testament.

“Available June 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

Under A Desert Sky by DiAnn Mills

2011-06-24T14:48:00.000-07:00

Differences….. A Challenge in Love

When Eva Fortier is hunted by her grandfather’s killer she is sent away from the pampered life of a rich daughter. Her parents deceased and no other family, she is sent to the protection of the Ghost Ranch in a isolated high desert of New Mexico. Evil has a way of finding its path and Eva’s safety is soon jeopardized.

There is much for Eva to learn and the consequences are unexpected. Surprised by her new emotions, can Eva find love or will pride and prejudice stand in the way?

Diann’s writing is vivid, bold and easy to imagine. The characters portray a variety of personalities that will keep you guessing. The dialogue is realistic, expressive and full of emotion.

Under a Desert Sky will definitely lasso your heart!

Don't miss the Author Interview with DiAnn Mills!

Too Rich for a Bride by Mona Hodgson

2011-06-21T19:50:00.000-07:00

Independence….. But at what cost?

Ida Sinclair, resolved to prove her merit as a businesswoman, took her determination to Cripple Creek, Colorado. Faced with the bias and discrimination of the late 1800s, her success was surprising. Her sisters and others were supportive, but could foresee possible negative consequences. With a firm focus and dedication she achieves greater success than she expected…. But at what cost?

The story is dramatically written, with wonderful descriptions, a variety of believable characters, and a sweet story. To Rich for a Bride will touch your emotions and fill your heart with a smile.

Chasing Sunsets by Eva Everson

2011-06-12T18:23:00.000-07:00

Moving forward into an alternate life style is a challenge for divorced parents, as it becomes more common. Chasing Sunsets is about letting go of past hurts, making unexpected changes, and believing in new starts.

The overall story follows the life of Kimberly Tucker post divorce. While ex-husband Charlie has their sons for a month Kimberly returns to Cedar Key, where memories of the past and dreams for the future collide.
The characters are full of emotions and multiple personalities shine through. Very descriptive writing and easy to envision and follow. The only challenge I encountered was the abundance of back story. It seemed to jump from present to past nearly every chapter.

Available June 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group

Face to Face with God by Jim Maxim

2011-06-06T20:44:00.000-07:00

When we read “brush with death” encounters it can open ones eyes to the will to survive. Often there is an experience of a religious nature and a definite change of life’s choices. I enjoyed Jim’s account and his story of survival.

However, once the details of the accident and relevant recovery experience are shared, the writing shifts to “sermonizing” and “preaching”.

I was expecting a more detailed account of the changes and how they have shaped the life of the author.

UNFORGETTABLE by Trish Perry

2011-06-01T14:54:00.000-07:00

Yes, No, Maybe so….

What do you when your “perfect match” seems less than perfect? Rachel and Josh’s first encounter doesn’t go well and the interactions that follow seem to end on less than a perfect note. However, the attraction is mutual and the challenges they encounter would test any relationship. Through honesty and sincere forgiveness, wounds of the past can be overcome and new love can grow.

Trish brings out human imperfections in her characters one can relate to. Her writing clearly portrays the struggle of trying so hard and yet coming up short. The story is smooth flowing, filled with lively action, and many twists and turns.

Unforgettable is a wonderful story that will warm your heart, lift your spirit, and let you dream.

Two for Tea by Trish Perry

2011-05-13T17:33:00.000-07:00

Sometimes protecting your heart…..could break it.

Life, after losing a spouse to death or divorce, can leave an unrealized impact. Often a fierce determination to “go it alone” surfaces and the wall of self protection is raised. This is the case for Zak Cooper, a farmer with two teenagers to raise. He seeks advice from counselor Tina Milano who he meets through Milly, a mutual friend.

Trish does an excellent job of bringing these two in contact with nicely flowing short chapters. Realistic action, in the small community, interlinks the unexpected. Great characters, with many facets, enjoy the thrill of achieving the “impossible” and beating the odds.

Two for Tea will renew your hope, open your heart, and lift your spirit!

PETRA City in Stone - by T.L. Higley

2010-10-21T17:41:00.000-07:00

Journey back through the sands of time...

Vivid adventure, survival, and a quest for truth fill the pages of Petra, City in Stone. The glory days of the Roman Empire and the struggle of the early Christians make a compelling background to the lives of nobles and slaves alike.

Powerful characters carry the story down dangerous paths, filled with sinister shadows and evil darkness. Petra, City in stone, harbors many secrets but light and love can find a way when the heart is open. Failures turn into triumphs and impossible odds are challenged.

Intense emotion, human imperfections, unconquerable determination...

Petra, City in Stone, is indeed fiction at it's finest!

The Perfect Blend - Trish Perry

2010-10-04T21:07:00.000-07:00

Murphy's Law... It applies to all
Sometimes we just have "those days" when nothing turns out right. If you have been there, done that, you will enjoy The Perfect Blend. Romance fills the air, smiles ever present, with happiness just around the corner... or is it?

The characters are fun, troublesome, and annoying, with a variety of personalities to spice up the confusion. The details are clear and the story unfolds like a movie in the mind.

If you have ever given up, felt defeated, or had a bad day you will find a common bond with Steph who discovers hope. The sunshine comes when she turns thoughtful, inward and seeks guidance from above.

Find a quiet moment, graba cup of warm cocoa, relax in a comfy chair and read The Perfect Blend. You're sure to feel better!

Fear No Evil - Robin Caroll

2010-10-04T17:59:00.000-07:00

The fingers of evil have no boundaries...

Tangled webs of deception are skifully woven into this dramatic and vivid story. Small town living is considered a safe haven, but the unthinkable often lurks around the corner.

The writing has a good flow and is easy to follow. The two-sided story will open your heart to truth you wish you didn't learn, for this fiction could easily be someone's reality.

Fear No Evil is filled with passionate characters who take their jobs to the limit and beyond. Visualize the chaos, feel the fear and watch the struggle for survival as evil slithers into Eternal Springs.

Don't forget to lock your doors!

Heart of the Lonely Exile - B.J. Hope

2010-09-17T18:49:00.000-07:00

The Emerald Balled Series Book 2

Keep your promise or follow your heart, the choice determines the future...
Nora Kavanagh, an Irish Immigrant to America, finds kindness where least expected. A new life, filled will unlimited possibilities, has opened her eyes and set her heart soaring. When love blooms, will it be to late?

The characters from the first book continue to grow, develope and take on new personalities. The story unfolds with clear details easy to visualize. The struggle of the heart is portrayed realism and accuracy. Young love, renewed love, and unspoken love love struggle to be expressed.

"Heart of the Lonely Exile" opens your eyes to early immigrant troubles and fills your heart with compassion. 5 Stars

Song of the Silent Harp - B.J. Hope -

2010-09-13T18:53:00.001-07:00

The Emerald Ballad Series Book 1

Love is the power that moves us when there is nothing left...
The famine grew to epic proportions when the potato crops failed again and again. Starving, sick and weak, the people of Ireland faced certain death. The roadside, strewn with bodies of young and old, was a horrid site. When hope of survival is lost, where can you turn?

BJ Hope has crated an unforgettable tail entwined around these perilous times. I found the descriptive writing abundant and easy to visualize. The characters are varied and work well together, creating a vivid contrast amidst the devastating life of the poverty stricken Irish.

Love is the power that moves us when nothing is left. Nora Kavanagh's losses are great, but she pushes forward with a mothers love. Determined, independent, and stubborn, Nora puts her family in danger when she denies assistance from a childhood friend. Can the great Morgan Fitzgerald change her mind?

The struggle to survive, against impossible odds, will touch your heart. After reading "The Song of the Silent Harp" you will be forever changed.

(The Prologue, though it contained interesting information, seemed to confuse instead of enlighten.)

Sworn to Protect - DiAnn Mills

2010-08-31T16:21:00.000-07:00

Sometimes making the right choices gets the wrong results.

In a man's world of Border Patrol agents along the Rio Grande, Danika Mills faces more than just the illegals. When the past and the present intermingle, the truth becomes harder and harder to decipher. Searching for clarity in her husbands death Danika's path leads into unexpected and perilous directions.

DiAnn's writing is strong, detailed and vivid. You can see the story unfold as you anticipate the next chapter and encounter surprised where you'd least expect them. There is plenty of action with just enough romance to make it a great read.

Has Danika Sworn to Protect her heart or the border, only time will tell.

A Dream for Hannah & A Hope for Hannah - Jerry S Eicher

2010-08-31T13:28:00.000-07:00

A Dream for Hannah
3 Stars

When young hearts dream of love it can lead to perilous paths. Unprepared, with high expiations, those dreams can be easily shattered.
I found the writing vivid and the people and places easy to visualize. The story line, however, had some definite dry areas and seemed to drag in places. In my mind, Hannah's character needed deeper development so the reader could better understand her heart and her choices. Teenagers however, Amish or otherwise, make spur of the moment decisions that can lead to devastating consequences, a fact that is definitely brought out in the story. Truth is also found in the need for honesty and openness in communication between parents and teens that can help prevent tragic outcomes. There are valuable lessons here for the growing young heart.

A Hope for Hannah
4 Stars

Sometimes, when dreams come true, they fall short of expitations.

This second book is an improvement over "A Dream for Hannah". The struggles of newly married and expectant parents Hannah and Jake Byler seem to multiply at every turn. With a cold Montana winter closing in, Hannah faces both physicial and mental challenges that are over whelming.

There is deeper character development and the story line is more consistant. The descriptions were clear and believeable. The dialogue seemed a bit wordy in places but in the long run, the necessary points were brought out.

I felt the story had good teach potential for the growing, impetuous heart. The need for honesty, communication and trust between couples was emphisized as a vital ingredient for a successful marriage.

When Hannah's world is crashing down around her, the future looks bleak. Will things get worse before they get better? A good read for the growing young heart.

Pursuit of Justice - DiAnn Mills

2010-07-17T17:24:00.000-07:00

Has Special Agent Bella Jordan bit off more than she can handle? When her past collides with the present, danger lurks ever closer...

DiAnn Mills gets the action started and your mind active from the first pages. Her characters have a mind and will of their own. Numerous conflicts lead to deadly consequences as the death toll rises. DiAnn’s descriptions are vivid and easy to imagine. The dialogue flows well and adds depth to the unseen action. With a bit of creative imagination you can read between the lines and into closed hearts. West Texas, dry, arid and beautiful is a great setting to awaken your senses. The twists, turns and double takes lead Bella down a path of unexpected personal danger. Is the mysterious Spider Rock Treasure connected? Could memories of her dark past bring needed answers? Intertwined with danger, disappointment, and dead ends romance, unlikely as it seems, blooms under impossible circumstances. Will Bella open her heart or protect it?

Pull on your boots, cinch up your saddle, and hold on tight, as you gallop into this bold adventure!... 5 Stars

A Woman Called Sage by Diann Mills

2010-07-01T11:21:00.000-07:00

When dreams are shattered, life forever altered, revenge can encompass your thoughts and actions…

DiAnn Mills has written another story to twist you heart, intrigue your mind, and send you back in time. Her characters are realistic and easy to visualize. The settings and descriptions come alive and the story flows well.

Sage Morrow, once left for dead on her Colorado ranch, has learned much in the ensuing years. Armed with the skills of her Ute ancestors, her faithful companion "Hawk", and a determination fueled by justice she begins her journey. Hunting for evildoers, she stands against the lawless. What will the future bring, danger for certain. The rest is up to Sage.

Great read, I highly recommend “A Woman Called Sage”. ...

Rebecca's Choice

2010-03-26T22:19:00.000-07:00

Devotion, Doubt, Devastation….

Jerry has created a very perplexing and interesting story of young love. His characters are lively, intriguing and sometimes unpredictable. The story line seems realistic to the Amish style of life.

The characters were a bit hard to follow in the beginning (Perhaps because I haven’t read other books in this series), but after the first few chapters everything flowed well and was easy to visualize. Descriptions and emotions are well presented. One could easily step inside the story.

Rebecca and John’s love is put to the test of honesty, trust and faith. Can they remain true to their love, their family and their way of life in the face of unforeseen difficulties?

Rebecca’s Choice will surely find a place in your heart. 4 Stars

Once in a Blue moon

2010-03-26T14:54:00.000-07:00

Author: Leanna Ellis

A quest for truth….Beware of what you seek!

Leanna presents a story filled with quirky characters, imaginative situations, and a mysterious past. The descriptive wordage is bold and easy to visualize. I was a bit “Lost in Space” in the beginning but after the third chapter the story becomes smoother with a comfortable flow.

The reader will encounter precarious situations, potential danger and lots of laughs. There is ample opportunity for sleuthing alongside Bryn, searching for the truth about her mother’s death. Along the way her heart faces new challenges. Emotions, once easily suppressed, surface and raise havoc with her sensible way of life, or is it?

If you are up for high flying adventure then “Once in a Blue Moon” will launch you into space. ... 4 Stars

Scattered Petals

2010-03-21T22:32:00.000-07:00

Author: Amanda Cabot

Happiness…..
Perspective or Providence

Amanda Cabot delivers another enthralling tale set on the 1856 Texas frontier. The characters, beset by emotional and physical struggles are pulled in multiple directions. The descriptive writing is excellent and easily visualized. The story line is twisted, fascinating to see unfold.

Priscilla Morton longed for adventure. When she convinces her parents to make a cross country journey to attend a wedding, she is filled with excitement. When the destination is finally reached, the consequences leave her devastated, distraught, and determined to never marry.

Her dreams destroyed, her emotions in turmoil, and her trust shattered it appears all hope is lost. Will she find peace? Will her faith sustain her? Only time will tell.

Scattered Petals is a harsh reminder of the old west and a glimpse at second chances. ... 5 Stars

A Stranger's Wish

2010-03-09T20:09:00.000-08:00

An Intriguing Story...
Gayle did a great job of grabbing my attention from page one. Her characters are loaded with vivid thoughts, dynamic personalities, and quirky faults. The setting, in an Amish community, is clearly described and easy to visualize. The storyline is a page turner, but I was able to anticipate the outcome.

The book is focused on Kristie Matthew, a young artist and school teacher, who doesn’t fit the family mold of lawyers. Moving to live on an Amish farm is filled with wonder, beauty and a lot of flack from others. Befriending an elderly man in need, leads Kriste through a series of unexpected events with dangerous consequences. Her faith and trust in God is refreshing and ever present in her thoughts.

Emotionally addicting and a lot of fun!...

Deliver Us From Evil by Robin Caroll

2010-02-10T16:05:00.000-08:00

Ranger to the Rescue….

Crimes against children are the most heinous and often hidden deep in the criminal underworld. Robin Caroll’s portrayal is written with striking realism and heartbreaking consequences. Trust and faith in God is put to extreme testing. Physical trials, emotional trauma, and death take their toll.

The characters are easy to visualize and blend in an unusual mix of villains verses heros. The way the story was broken up with time/location notations was distracting. I was a bit lost with the “helicopter pilot lingo” and other unclear acronyms. The quoting of scripture for support between friends flowed okay but seemed a bit excessive.

The overall writing was captivating and the story line was strong and driven. The challenges were realistic and reflective of today’s struggles. Suspenseful, captivating, and a good read.

Angel's Den by Jamie Carie

2010-02-10T15:57:00.000-08:00

A Startling Romantic Adventure…..

Set in post Lewis and Clark America, Jamie Carr creates an intriguing story of “Beauty and the Beast” in reverse. Deception is the key ingredient and its effects are used with stunning success.

Evil is portrayed in its most deceiving form. When truth becomes apparent, innocence is stolen, shattered, and broken. Faith, strength and courage rise to the occasion but who will prevail in the end?

The writing was excellent. Stimulating the imagination with vivid pictures, bold characters and striking dialogue.

A great read for a cold winter’s night. ... 5 Stars

A Shore Thing

2010-02-10T15:42:00.000-08:00

Very engaging writing with a warmth of faith to touch the heart.
Julie Carobin weaves a wonderful tale of misconceptions, misunderstandings, and missed opportunities into an all out battle to save and preserve the habitat at Otter Cover. The characters make mistakes, loose battles and get depressed. Yet faith in God is the thread that weaves its way into their lives, giving them determination and courage to press forward when the tides turn and it appears all is lost.

The writing is smooth, realistic and has a good balance of description and engaging dialogue. The characters are many but each fits well into the story. They interact with realism and the challenges of modern life. The surprising twists and turns will keep you reading.

A Shore Thing is an upbeat and enjoyable book for the Christian Romance booklover. ...

The Least of These

2010-02-10T14:30:00.000-08:00

Author: Terry Hampton

Reviewed by Diane A Brown

If all governmental support went away, how would the elderly, disabled and disadvantaged survive?

When the government can no longer afford the financial drain, The Least of These looks into the lives of several families after the President of the United States signs a bill terminating these programs.

The writing is clear and and for the most part easy to follow. The reader is introduced to several main characters in a few pages. It is a little hard to keep them straight, but once the reader become familiar their stories, things unfold in most interesting and unusual ways. Paths cross on many different levels as neighbors help neighbors and the community tries working together to help those left without hope.

Christian principles are used, as expressed in the biblical terms “love thy neighbor as thy self” and many others. This is a book all Christians could learn from, no matter what religion they associate with. It gives the reader an opportunity to see things from several perspectives. The reader may find themselves pondering how a change of this magnitude could affect their lives and the far reaching consequences of their actions, should similar events really come to pass.

The writing focus is on turning to Heavenly Father for guidance and relying on Him in troubled times, but it done in a "non preachy” way. The stories are related from inside the hearts of those who know and trust the Lord, others who are seeking for something better, and from others who have bitterness and hatred that is not clearly understood

Readers beware, once this book has touched your heart, you will never look at governmental assistance in the same way.

Gone in a Heartbeat

2010-02-10T13:43:00.000-08:00

5 Stars

Gone in a Heartbeat
By David & Marie Works

Reviewed by Diane A Brown

Tragedy, when it strikes your life, takes on a whole new meaning…

This book shares an in depth look into the lives of the Works family. We journey with them from the happy togetherness they once had, through the tragic shooting of three family members, to coping with an altered future.

The writing is very descriptive and emotionally stimulating. You may find yourself crying right beside them or heaving a sigh of relief when a small milestone is passed. Most of the story is told from the point of view of David, the father or Marie, the mother. The way it is denoted. “I (David) felt… or I (Marie) felt…” was distracting to me and interrupted the flow to some degree.

The book is written in chronological order, sharing experiences, dreams and plans of the Works family. You have the opportunity to see a glimpse of their personalities and understand there lives before, during, and after the traumatic events. The writing is so visual that you can see it unfold as if you were standing right there.

This is a Christian family and as such they constantly rely on the hand of God in their everyday lives, turning to Him always in their time of need. They emulate the principles of forgiveness, love and faith and by so doing touch lives around the world.

Crazy Faith

2010-02-10T12:54:00.000-08:00

3 Stars

Crazy Faith: Ordinary People, Extraordinary Lives
By Susan K. Williams Smith

Reviewed by Diane A Brown

Faith is an astounding thing, especially when you test it…

Crazy Faith emphasizes the amazing accomplishments of several biblical persons and latter-day counterparts. It is well thought out and the conclusions drawn by Susan Smith are thought provoking, giving the reader another paradigm to consider.

Through intriguing imagery, familiar bible renditions of struggle, faith, and courage come alive. Individuals who pressed forward in the face of doubters and unbelievers were able to achieve the humanly impossible. Keeping an open mind will give the reader a chance to appreciate the authors’ interpretations.

The stories of crazy faith taken from more modern experiences are informative and truly inspiring. Each is presented with vivid details that will leave the reader in awe. The accomplishments are remarkable. The journey of faith begins with just one small step, followed by dedication, perseverance, and the hand of heavenly intervention. Many attitudes, visions, and lives were altered for the better because one person had enough crazy faith to stand up in the face of impossible odds. Even the hardest heart will be touched.

I found Crazy Faith to be a wonderful source of inspiration intermixed with honest preaching from a single perspective. Never the less, it felt like the same points were emphasized again and again. Different areas of focus were presented, but still the same point over and over again.

The Hand That Bears The Sword

2010-02-09T22:14:00.000-08:00

Author: George Bryan Polivka

Reviewed by Diane A Brown

Packer Throme is torn between loyalty to his new wife, his country, and his God…

Interrupted in the middle of their “Honeymonth”, Packer is forced away from Panna, his new bride. Celebrated as the hero and the great hope of Nearing Vast, loyalty requires that he must set sail with the Vast Navy. Packer’s influence is far reaching and many believe he is preserved by the hand of God. But how much influence can just one man have over an entire enemy navy? The odds that he will return are not good, for there are many who seek his demise.

Packer is forced to fight against pirates, fire fish and the massive Drannun Navy. There are times when he seems to surpass human capabilities, amazing his fellow seamen. Does Packer’s strength come from within or are there miracles at work? Does God intervene or is it just coincidence?

Panna, left alone in Nearing Vast, is confined to the castle by Prince Mather. She is very strong willed and blatantly refuses his growing affections. Pana is a brave soul, but fear for those she loves is ever constant in her mind. Will God lead Packer home to her heart or is he lost forever?

The Kingdom of Drammun is well prepared war against the Kingdom of Nearing Vast. Their navy has many ships and their warriors are clad with an amazing armor. However, there are plots brewing that could alter the very heart of the Drammun government. The Law, the Rahk-Taa, becomes a powerful weapon when used for personal gain. Will the worthy Hezzan of Drammun be victorious? Will the unworthy Vasts be easily defeated?

What will become of Packer Throme? A hero remembered or a legend that lives on?

The Hand That Bears The Sword is full of many intriguing twists and unexpected turns. It was difficult to relate to the characters without a prologue. However, if you keep reading the characters sort themselves out and the vividness of detail opens your imagination.

THE ROAD HOME By Tommy Tenney & Mark Andrew Olsen

2010-02-09T19:43:00.000-08:00

5 Stars

The Road Home
By Tommy Tenney & Mark Andrew Olsen

Reviewed by Diane A Brown

When the end comes, it is often just the beginning….

Ruth loses both her brother-in-law to a terrible disease and her husband in a fatal accident all in the same day. With no family to turn to, her mother-in-law Naomi becomes her only refuge.

The three women, Naomi and her daughter-in-laws Ruth and Orpah, were a mess. Their combined grief was heavy and burdensome long after the services passed. Money was scarce. Naomi’s husband had died just three years previous and nearly all the insurance money was drained. Now widowed, Ruth and Orpah could no longer face the stress of Las Vegas life. It was time for a change and Naomi had the answer. “We are going on a journey” she announced. The next day they were on their way.

Leaving Vegas behind had a calming effect. As the glitz and glitter gave away to nature’s grandeur, they felt lighter, more alive. A measure of peace settled in as they headed for Naomi’s “special place.” It was there, in a time past, that life had seemed perfect. Though it was just one evening beneath the stars, they had felt something completely wonderful.

The time neared to let go of the past, but their hearts were reluctant. Would they stand tall and be free or haunted with memories?

The future was not yet written, but Naomi had her own plans. She was sending Ruth and Orpah home to Las Vegas on a bus. Then she was going back east. Her people were there. How many she didn’t know, but there was no question in her mind, she would return.

Ruth couldn’t allow the ageing Naomi to go alone. The two unite for a perilous journey filled with struggles, danger and surprising outcomes. Will they fulfill their dream? What hidden hazards lay in store? Can true peace ever be found?

The Road Home is vividly written and full of powerful emotions. As you read it, the story of Ruth will span the centuries and touch your heart.

The best Christian Fiction I have read in a long time!