Relative Silence by Carrie Stuart Parks

The author is one of my favorites, so I was eager to read this book.  It centers around Piper Boone, daughter of a wealthy family, who has suffered a great tragedy—the loss of her daughter and her marriage.

As Piper tries to put together the pieces of the puzzle regarding her family, she realizes that someone has been murdering her family members and making it look like tragic accidents.

The suspense, along with the impending hurricane, carries the reader along into the story.  Although I felt that some elements (a romance) were a bit predictable, others (the murderer’s identity) were not!

Readers who enjoy a suspenseful read with a touch of romance will enjoy this one.  It was not my favorite—I miss former heroine Glenn Marcy—but I do want the author to continue writing.  Her work is fascinating.

I am grateful to the publisher for a free copy of the book, for this, my honest review.

Attractively illustrated children's book about family love

Mama Kisses, Papa Hugs By Lisa Tawn Bergren and illustrated by Aleksandar Zolotic

The little boy complains that he is too old for his mama’s kisses and his papa’s hugs.  His parents explain that even animals show love to their little ones.  They conclude that God shows love to us through our family. 

This book was very attractively illustrated and fun for a child and parent to enjoy together.  I can imagine my grandchildren giggling at the thought of sloth kisses or turtle hugs.

However, I thought the author missed an opportunity to talk about how God illustrates his love to us through Jesus’ death and resurrection.  I also wondered about the picture on the last page of the boy sleeping in his bed outside.  I didn’t understand the significance of that.

But I do think this book will open the door to talk to children about the love of their family and ultimately, the love God has for them.  Grab your favorite child and enjoy this book together today!

I am grateful to the publisher for a free copy that I will enjoy reading to my grandchildren.