Review of Starflower

Starflower by Anne Elisabeth Stengl has been my favorite fiction book that I have received to review.  Stengl is an excellent writer- so much so, that my husband, who teaches college English, picked up the book and complimented her writing and was drawn in to the well-crafted world that she created.  I loved that she based the story on the poem The Hound of Heaven.  My husband and I both thought that she did an excellent job of creating the fairy world and the other worlds that were included in the book.  I was drawn in, and very much enjoyed getting to know the characters and seeing them grow and develop.  I am looking forward to reading more of Stengl's books, and would definitely pass this one on to friends and family.
I received a free copy of this book in order to review it and was not required to give a favorable review.

Review of Father Cry

Father Cry by Billy Wilson is a book that is unfortunately very needed in this day and age.  It address the issues associated with a culture where many fathers are often absent.  It is a great tool for those who would seek to minister to children, teens, and even adults who have grown up without fathers (or a mother in some cases).  It is also designed to address and help the reader deal with issues they may have experienced due to not having a mother or father.  It points to our Heavenly Father and His unconditional love for us, and offers great hope for healing.  I would pass this along to friends, especially those who grew up in these types of situations and to those who are ministering to kids and teens.
I received a free copy of this book in order to review it and was not required to give a favorable review.

Review of Against the Tide by Elizabeth Camden

I enjoyed Against the Tide.  It is a creative and different historical novel that involves a time-period and issues which I didn't know much about beforehand.  The characters were endearing and enjoyable to read about.  My only complaint about the book is that the climax and resolution seemed somewhat far-fetched and unbelievable.  Overall, though, I enjoyed the book and would pass it along to friends to read.
I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in order to review it and was not required to give a positive review.

Review of Understanding World Religions in 15 Minutes a Day

This book is by Garry R. Morgan
I think that this book is a useful resource and can be very helpful. It does not go into depth, but does offer an introduction and overview of the basics of many world religions. It is a good tool for those who have no background with these religions. It is nice to know also that it was written from a Christian perspective.
I was given a copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for a review. I was not required to give a positive review.

Book Review of When Hope Blossoms by Kim Vogel Sawyer

I enjoyed this book but felt it moved a little too slow.  The story line was engaging, and I especially liked the aspect of Tim coming to grips with his past and healing from the pain and grief he had been through.  I also liked reading about the relationships between Amy and her children and how God worked in those.
I am not a big fan of Amish or Mennonite fiction, but those who are might really like this book.  It seemed like the plot was fairly clear but it was slow-moving to get to the resolution.  Maybe it just felt slow to me because I was not super-engaged by the Mennonite setting.
I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in order to review it, and was not required to give a positive review.

Book Review of Almost Amish by Kathryn Cushman

This book was okay. It was not super-engaging and I didn't get hooked. I did not feel connected to the characters and had a hard time relating to the perspective of the mother in the book. She begins the book with the realization that she "hates" her life. I had a hard time with that, because as a believer, I struggle against being discontent and looking to God to satisfy me. I understand that sometimes changing circumstances in our lives can be helpful and beneficial, but ultimately , we look to God for contentment and satisfaction. I wouldn't pass this one on to friends.
I received this book free from Bethany House for the purpose of reviewing it and was not required to give a positive review.

New Use for Blog- Book Reviews

I have recently signed up and been selected by Bethany House to review books.  I will be sharing my book reviews here on this blog.
The first book I received was The Short-Straw Bride, and here is my review:
I very much enjoyed The Short-Straw Bride by Karen Witemeyer.  I thought the plot was a cute idea.  Meredith has idealized Travis as her “hero” ever since he rescued her as a young girl.  Travis has spent his life trying to raise and protect his brothers and protect their land.  Meredith goes to warn Travis about a plot against him and his brothers and ends up stuck out at the Archer farm.  Travis is therefore “forced” to marry Meredith, but both have feelings for each other.  I thought it was a very sweet story about two people falling in love with in a marriage that was brought about by necessity.  I thought it was well-written and I look forward to reading more books by Karen Witemeyer.
  I was provided a free copy of this book from Bethany House in order to review it, and was not required to give a positive review.
I gave this book 4 stars at Amazon.com and would recommend it to friends.