The Inventions of God (and Eva)

Story by Dave Connis and Art by Amy Domingo

This colorful book was a hit with my second grade class.  The children especially enjoyed Dr. Katsworth, Eva’s creation.

  I enjoyed this book because it illustrates a difficult concept for children to grasp—how people are created in God’s image.

As a Christian teacher, I found it helpful to present this book to underscore how we are created in God’s image—a foundational concept we cover when studying God’s creation of the world.  Even though the concept is abstract, Amy’s colorful drawings and Dave’s childlike prose invite the reader to explore just how God and Eva are alike.  It also illustrates how God delights in Eva, His creation.

This playful book for children sneaks in some hefty theology in a very palatable way.  I highly recommend it for parents and Christian teachers alike!

 

New Mystery Series

 

All That is Secret by Patricia Raybon

Annalee Spain is the “colored professor” at a Chicago Bible college.  She has been summoned to Colorado to help solve the murder of her father.  She answers the summons despite having no job or money and knowing only the people from her childhood church.  Her trip launches her on a new life and new career with the promise of more adventures to come.

There were several things that I enjoyed about this book.  I enjoyed the characters, especially Annalee and Eddie.  I enjoyed reading about a time in history that I knew little about.  I enjoyed reading a book about a woman of a different background than me.  I also enjoyed Annalee’s inner dialogue, which was easy to relate to.  The references to Sherlock Holmes were a fun bonus.

Patricia Raybon’s writing was entertaining.  The mystery was not predictable or easily solved.  The plot was exciting and unpredictable.  She laid the groundwork for an interesting series.  I look forward to reading more of Annalee’s adventures.   I am grateful to the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.

Timely Topics and an Encouraging Story

 

The Fine Art of Insincerity by Angela Hunt

Ginger and her two sisters, Penny and Rose, meet at their grandmother’s cottage to ready it for its upcoming sale.  While they are there, Ginger’s carefully ordered world crumbles when she discovers her husband’s infidelity.  Penny is ready to step out of her marriage and Rose is planning her suicide.  The three sisters have no idea of each other’s struggles.

Angela Hunt typically writes about a myriad of topics and has a way of gripping a reader until she ends the story.   This book was no different.  Not only did she hold my attention, but she also addressed a variety of heavy topics for Christian fiction.  Infidelity, abortion and suicide all played a part in this story.  Through relevant topics, she a demonstrated how easily the past can influence a family’s present.

I found this book to be encouraging.  Even though each of the characters had flaws, they repented and grew through their experiences and through the example of their grandmother.  There was hope for each of them as they addressed the challenges in their lives.  I enjoyed this book and think that other readers who enjoy women’s fiction will, too. 

 

Unusual and Captivating Setting

Under the Bayou Moon by Valerie Fraser Luesse 

Ellie Fields, a young, determined teacher leaves her home and family in Alabama and heads for Bernadette, Louisiana for a position that no one else wants.  During her tenure there, she confronts prejudice against the Cajun students she teaches, as well as their families.  In standing up for her children, she becomes a beloved member of the community.  But unanticipated danger finds her and those she loves in this small town. 

  

The author introduces readers to a place that is easy to fall in love with.  I was captivated by her rich descriptions of the bayou and the mystery of the L’ esprit Blanc, the white alligator.  The characters were also charming and easy to love. Ellie, Raphe, Remy, Doc, and Heywood welcomed me into their world. 

  

Although some of the challenges faced by the characters were too quickly resolved in my opinion, like Remy feeling wanted by Raphe and Ellie, the plot moved along nicely, and kept my attention.  I especially enjoyed the part that the white alligator played.  The epilogue was a bonus that I unquestionably enjoyed. 

Readers wanting to be transported to a new part of the world will enjoy this story.  I am grateful to the publisher and author for a free copy of this book in exchange for this, my honest review. 

True Stories of Persecution

 

The Insanity of God by Nik Ripken

Nik Ripken writes this book to answer questions raised by his term of mission service in Somaliland.  He and his family leave the country broken and discouraged.  He believes that there are answers to the questions that plague him and he goes in search of God’s people who have survived and thrived during persecution.  The stories that he hears and then recounts are nothing short of amazing, sounding like pages lifted from the book of Acts.

Although I had not previously heard of Nik, I intend to read his next book, The Insanity of Obedience.  His words and the experiences of persecuted believers are challenging. The stories and characters Nik introduced will linger in my mind.   I highly recommend this book to those of us who are comfortable in our complacency.  Because of it, I am feeling a little less complacent.

Tenderly Written Adoption Story

 

The Nature of Small Birds by Susie Finkbeiner

Mindy Matthews was a child from Operation Babylift during the Vietnam War.  Her growing up years are chronicled in this story of an American family who decided to adopt her. 

This story was written tenderly and transparently.  As a reader, I got the sense of what she and her family experienced.  The author did a skillful job of conveying the emotions experienced by Mindy’s mother, father, sisters and extended family.  Because Mindy’s uncle had died in Vietnam, there was some understandable tension between her grandmother and the family who adopted Mindy.  Even this tension was lovingly and honestly addressed in the story.

I really enjoyed this book, but found the change in point of view and the vacillating time of each chapter a bit confusing at times.  I was also flabbergasted when the book ended, leaving the story hanging.  I really wanted to know what happened next.  Perhaps another book will complete the story.

Susie FInkbeiner is a gifted author and this book is well worth the read, especially because it highlights an experience that not too many readers may have had.  I am grateful to the publisher for a copy of this book in return for this, my honest review.

Historical fiction based in a southern black community

 

When Stars Rain Down by Angela Jackson-Brown

Opal Pruitt just wants a quiet summer where she can be like the white girls her age—carefree and happy.  But as a “colored” seventeen-year-old girl on the cusp of adulthood, that is not to be her lot.  The summer brings much turmoil between the blacks and the Klu Klux Klan.   Opal ends up playing a significant part in the race war between the two groups, much to her regret.

This book was written from Opal’s point of view and gives the reader an inside look at how black communities functioned in the days before the Civil Rights movement.  She loves her white employers but knows they do not understand her.  She loves her extended family and depends on them heavily but knows that they are unable to truly protect her and that they may die trying.

The author populates the book with many interesting characters, including Opal, Granny, Lucille and Cedric.  My favorite was Miss Lovenia.  She was mysterious and perplexing.  She seemed to understand Opal and wanted to try and help her, but her methods made both Opal and me uncomfortable.  I think I would side with Opal’s Granny and say she practiced “hoodoo” regardless of what Miss Lovenia claimed.  She did add an interesting element to the story though.

I appreciated this book because it gave me a glimpse into the life of a person different than myself.  I admired Opal because despite the hate that existed, she still had hope for a better life.   I am grateful to the publisher for a free copy in exchange for this, my honest review.

 

Military suspense by new to me authors

 

Dark Intercept by Brian Andrews and Jeffrey Wilson

Andrews and Wilson were a new to me writing team, who have written about 10 other books.  This book was action-packed and suspenseful and had elements reminding me of Frank Peretti’s works, which I loved.

Jedidiah Johnson, a newly retired SEAL, is plunged into a difficult situation, where his past is messing with his present.  Estranged friends have contacted him to help them find their missing daughter, who has been kidnapped.

The supernatural weaves itself through this story, along with page-turning suspense.  Despite the military terminology which may be unfamiliar to readers, the plot moves quickly.  The authors slowly reveal the secrets of Jed’s past, teasing the reader along. They set up  a new villain at the end of the story, so the saga will continue.

Readers who enjoy military suspense with a supernatural twist will enjoy this. I am grateful to the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for this, my honest review.

Thought-provoking fiction by Bill Myers

 

Rendezvous with God by Bill Myers

I was fascinated by this book and its premise.  Will Thomas, newly divorced English professor, has just discovered his pregnant 14-year-old niece on his doorstep between Christmas and New Year’s.  Not only that, but he has begun experiencing hallucinations, or dreams where he finds himself in Israel with Jesus.  He has no control over these bizarre experiences, but they begin to change him, as does the presence of his niece.

Myers presents a fresh, unjaded view of Jesus in Will’s hallucinations.  At times it almost seemed irreverent but still compelling.  It made me wonder about what people really thought of Jesus and ponder the scriptural stories from a new vantage point.

I loved the fact that the characters developed and changed from the beginning of the story.  The story gives hope that God does continue to change his people as they continue a relationship with him. 

I really enjoyed Myers’ wit and sense of humor that was peppered throughout the book.  Readers who enjoy some humor and being provoked to think will like this book.  I am curious to see how Myers continues the story in the next book, Renovation.  I am grateful to the publisher for a free copy in return for this, my honest review.

 

Thoughts on Having Fun by Annie F. Downs

 

That Sounds Fun by Annie F. Downs

Annie was a new to me author and speaker, but it sounds like she has developed quite a following with her down-to-earth conversations with readers and podcast listeners.

I had imagined that her book would tell me to get out there and have some fun, and she did.  She also wrote about a lot of the fun that she has experienced in her life, too. 

She impressed me with the thought that our desire for fun is a longing for Eden.  I pondered that thought for a while.  I came to the conclusion that she is right.  When we lost Eden, we lost more than we imagined.  Having fun in itself won’t return us to Eden, but will make our time on earth more enjoyable. 

Annie also covers the joys of being an amateur, the power of falling in love, and why you need a hobby.  Her writing style reminded me a bit of Anne Lamott, another author I enjoy.

If you enjoy a lengthy, meandering but meaningful conversation with a friend, you will enjoy this book.  I am grateful to the publisher for the free copy in exchange for this, my honest review. 

Lynn Austin's Newest Historical Fiction

 

Chasing Shadows by Lynn Austin

This novel is the latest by Lynn Austin and takes place in the Netherlands during the time of World War 2.  It centers around a family and their friends, including some Jews.  Ans, the oldest daughter leaves the farm that her parents, Lena and Pieter run in order to find her life in the city.  Suddenly the neutral Netherlands are plunged into the war and everyone’s life is turned upside down.  Both Ans and her parents must decide how to respond to the Nazi occupation.  Their decisions are the ripples in the pond which carry the book’s plot forward.

This book has some dark, despair-filled sections, which must have mirrored the real events on which it is based.  There are, however, also some times where the light breaks through and hope shines brightly.  Sacrificial love, forgiveness, belief in the providence of God and standing up for the right make this a novel to remember.

Reading this book causes the reader to remember that others have suffered and that the suffering is never in vain but produces fruit in the lives of those suffering.  Readers who enjoy historical fiction laced with the reality of darkness and hope will enjoy this book.  I am grateful to the publisher for the copy to read and review for this, my honest opinion.

Cracks in the Perfect Marriage

 

The One You’re With by Lauren Denton

Mac and Edie seem to have it all—he is a successful pediatrician with his own practice, and she is an interior designer with an exclusive firm.  Their two kids complete their perfect family.  But looks can be deceiving as Mac learns one day when a stranger arrives at his office.  Their perfect marriage is about to have its flaws exposed.  Their past is meeting them head on and both Mac and Edie wonder if their family will survive.

I loved getting to know both Mac and Edie’s past and present.  The dual time of the story was relatively easy to follow and helped me to understand the character’s present personalities.

The plot’s problem was realistic and the characters’ response to it was genuine.  I imagine that similar things have happened to other couples. 

This book was a clean, inspiring read, but I don’t know that I would characterize it as Christian fiction as the only mention of God was a few quickly breathed prayers by one of the characters.  There was no mention of church, the Bible or Jesus.  However, the characters for the most part did seem to live by Christian principles, especially Fitz and Mrs. Cindy, his wife.

Readers who enjoy realistic fiction that deals with some real life issues handled in a very inspiring way will enjoy this story.  I received a free copy from the publisher for this, my honest review.

Latest Suspense by Carrie Stuart Parks

 

Woman of Shadow by Carrie Stuart Parks

Darby Graham is investigating some suspicious activity at primitive but posh Mule Shoe Dude Ranch near Yellowstone National Park.  She is a recent graduate of Clan Firinn, a program that helps law enforcement officers recover from PTSD.  As events escalate, Darby is confronted with several murders.  She will need to face her PTSD triggers to survive.  Help is available only by traveling through the wilderness to contact the outside world.  Will Darby be able to survive the wilderness to bring back help?

True to Parks’ past novels, this book has lots of plot twists and suspense.  It has interesting characters whose pasts were revealed layer by layer.  I especially liked finding out Darby’s history and the events that caused her PTSD.

 The setting near Yellowstone and the frequent earthquakes were also an interesting feature.  Not too many books that I have read have been set there and I learned something about the geology of the region.

In short, this book is not your typical Christian suspense.  If you are a fan of Christian fiction, this one will stand out from the rest.  These opinions are my own and I am grateful to the publisher for a free copy of this book in exchange for my review. 

 

A Piece of the Moon by Chris Fabry

A small West Virginia Town, a country radio station, some unique characters and a hidden treasure complete with clues comprise the latest book by Chris Fabry.

Chris creates a world that could exist on a West Virginia state map, complete with characters that a reader grows to love.  He weaves several subplots together for a satisfying story, whose ending did not disappoint.

If you are a fan of southern fiction, this one needs to be added to your must- read pile.  I am grateful to the publisher for the free copy, and this is my honest review.

Angela Hunt's Latest Biblical Fiction

 

A Woman of Words by Angela Hunt

Mary, mother of Jesus now resides in Jerusalem.  She feels impressed by the Holy Spirit to record stories and teachings of Jesus.  She asks Matthew, one of the twelve to help her.  Their work will affect Christianity for years to come.

Angela Hunt uses her sanctified imagination and copious research to recreate the world of first century Christianity in Jerusalem.  The reader catches the feel of the political climate, the personalities of the apostles and the customs of the day.  Granted, some of this is imagined by the author, but it was still fascinating to read about and envision.

Hunt’s books never fail to deliver.  The characters were relatable and seemed realistically drawn, given the facts that we know about them. The plot moved steadily and held some surprises. Best of all, this book made me want to investigate the circumstances of the writing of Matthew’s gospel.

In short, a reader who enjoys biblical fiction will find much to enjoy about this book.  I am grateful to the publisher and netgalley for the opportunity to read this book, and this is my honest review.  

Sean Dietrich's Latest Southern Fiction Novel

 The Incredible Winston Browne by Sean Dietrich 

Sean Dietrich or “Sean of the South,” is an incredible storyteller, who creates a real world that readers won’t want to leave behind.  Moab, Florida, is the setting for his latest story.  The sleepy little town is populated by unique and interesting characters starring Winston Browne and his friends.  He is the sheriff, coroner, errand boy, and father-figure to the residents.  His life and death change the course of the little, baseball-crazy town. 

Dietrich’s description of small-town life is very authentic.  The characters are unique, flawed, but very real by the time the book is over.  The lessons Winston learns are readily passed along to the readers for their benefit. The plot is at times a loosely strung collection of short stories which gives the reader more insight into the characters, but suspense is waiting in the shadows. 

This book is so well-written that I had a book hangover after I finished it. 

Readers who enjoy small-town southern fiction will love this one!  I heartily recommend this book! 

 

Terri Blackstock's Latest Romantic Suspense

 

Aftermath by Terri Blackstock

Jamie Powell, a lawyer, gets an unexpected call from an old friend who needs her legal skills.  Even though they were close friends as children, she hasn’t heard from Dustin Web in years.  He has been framed by someone who set off an explosion killing 26 people.  It will take all of Jamie’s legal expertise to free Dustin and find the real criminal.

This is Terri Blackstock at her trademark best:  suspense, plot twists, and a touch of romance.  The real bad guy was a surprise to me, and the addition of a victim out for justice only added to the suspense.  The romance between Jamie and Dustin was sweet and appropriate as the culmination of their long but interrupted friendship.

This book is for those readers who enjoy Blackstock, Colleen Coble, and the romantic suspense genre.  I am grateful to the publisher and Netgalley for the arc.  In return, this is my honest review.

Seasoned Author Cynthia Ruchti's Latest Novel

 

Facing the Dawn by Cynthia Ruchti

Mara Jacobs is “every woman.”  She doesn’t need any help, thankyouverymuch.  But life seems to be caving in on her, beginning with a call from her youngest son’s principal.   

Her husband is overseas on a humanitarian mission for another year.  Her oldest son is on house arrest, her middle daughter has had a miscarriage, her youngest son sorely misses his father.  And her life only goes downhill from there. 

Cynthia Ruchti seems to have her finger on the pulse of today’s wives and mothers.  Mara is overwhelmed, stressed, and struggling.  But life and God are stepping in to help her to grow.  Despite the disasters in her life, she learns to trust God and others and to admit that she occasionally needs help from her friends.  It is a tedious process, with plenty of help from the people in her life, especially forever friend Ashlee.

This book really spoke to me and Mara was so relatable.  I think that the author has a valid message for today’s women, but she communicates it in a very palatable form.  She touches on living with grief, overcoming life’s challenges, parenting, and the value of friendships.

I really hope that there will be a sequel because I want to know what becomes of Mara and her children.    This book is well-written, the characters are so real, and the message is amazingly pertinent.  I received a free copy from the publisher and am happy to give my whole-hearted recommendation.

 

Suspense from a new author

 

Network of Deceit by Tom Threadgill

Amara Alvarez is a new homicide detective who is charged with finding the murderer of Zachary Coleman, who died at a water park with some friends.  As she digs into the case, she discovers that the teenager was involved in a serious crime spree, which his parents were unaware of.  Amara keeps investigating and discovers that even Zachary’s friends aren’t what they seem to be.  Can she find the truth despite the deceit?

This is the second book in this series by Tom Threadgill and I followed it fine, despite not having read the first one.  I enjoyed the understated humor presented by Amara and her co-worker, Starsky.  I liked Amara for her quirkiness—how many detectives do you know that have a pet iguana—and her gutsy-ness.  She had a compassionate side, which was endearing, too.

This book left some questions unanswered:  what about her mother’s cancer diagnosis?  What happens when she is assigned to be Rutledge’s partner?   Will her relationship with Starsky continue?  And just why is he nicknamed Starsky?  So obviously, I hope there is another book to answer these questions.  And while I am at it, I think I will need to read the first one, Collision of Lies.

Readers who enjoy suspense with a touch of humor and romance will enjoy this book.  I am grateful to the publisher for a free digital copy in return for my honest review.

Fascinating Historical Fiction

 

The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson

Cussy Mary Carter, nineteen, of Troublesome Creek, is the last of the blue people in the hills of Kentucky.  She is also a pack horse librarian, charged with delivering reading materials to her patrons located throughout the sparsely populated region.  She loves her job and her patrons and does her best to meet the needs of the desperately poor people she serves.  She encounters challenges of many kinds, including the townspeople and head librarian who despise her because of her color.

When she becomes indebted to the local doctor, he asks for payment in the way of being able to examine her to see why she is blue.  Her father demands that she submit and she is carted away to Lexington to a hospital where they discover the cause of her condition.  An important enzyme is missing in her blood, which makes her skin appear blue.  The doctors offer her a way to become “white” and she eagerly accepts, hoping to at last be accepted by society.

I found much to admire in Cussy Mary’s character.  She was self-sacrificing and incredibly determined to help her patrons.  Although she was often feared or shunned, she never seemed to retaliate.   She was hard-working and fiercely loyal, seeking the best for those she served.   

This book is inspired by the blue-skinned people of Kentucky and Kentucky Pack Horse library service.  I found it fascinating.  It presents a revealing look at prejudice, hope, determination and courage.  For anyone who loves historical fiction, unusual characters and books, this story is inspiring.  I highly recommend it. 

Action Adventure with Murphy Shephard

 The Letter Keeper by Charles Martin 

 Murphy Shephard’s story continues with this book. He pursues the bad guys who are trying to traffic young people.  Only this time, it becomes very personal.  His wife and daughter are taken. 

 Along the way, the author fills us in on much of the history of the relationship between Murphy and Bones, a priest, as well as some of Murphy’s past.  After having read The Water Keeper, I appreciated having some of my questions answered.

 

For those who have not read the previous book, which I recommend, Murphy is a real hero, even better than James Bond.  He has the same kinds of resources, skills and abilities, but completes his missions with a pure heart to unselfishly help others.  In his spare time, he is a very popular author and loving father.  Ok, so maybe he is too good to be true, but this is fiction, after all! 

Charles Martin is at the top of his game with character development and plot pacing.     I must say that I could hardly believe how quickly I read this book!  The ending surprised me and left me with hope of a sequel.  If you are a Charles Martin fan, this one will not disappoint.   I am grateful to the publisher for a free copy in return for  my honest opinion.

 

Southern Fiction Featuring a Family of Color

 

‘Til I Want No More by Robin Pearson

 

Robin’s latest book focuses on a family facing a time of reckoning. The daughter, Maxine is engaged and writes about the wedding planning.  As she navigates the challenges of planning for a new life with her fiancé Teddy, she must confront her past.  Of course, like in real life, the confrontation gets messy.

 

What I liked about this book is that it features a family of color, which seems to be under-represented in Christian fiction that I have read.  I also enjoyed the appearance of characters from her previous book. I also found that the  author’s message of second chances and forgiveness was healing.  I think that there are readers who will identify with Maxine and gain courage from her experience.

 

Robin creates a world that a reader can readily step into and feel like the characters are family.  She creates characters that are likeable, ordinary and yes, flawed.  If you enjoy a visit to family, this book will take you there.  I am grateful to the publisher for a free copy for this, my honest review.