Tuesday, July 23, 2013

Sweet and Sentimental



I have a tendency to gravitate away from novellas, as a habit. I just enjoy books that go deeper and are much more developed. So the fact that I thoroughly enjoyed this book, is saying a LOT.

There are four stories wrapped up nicely in this one book. They each display the tale of a mail order bride and the confusion that ensues when things aren't what is expected.

I love how each author had a different plot and setting of the story, but one thing remained true throughout. All the characters went through the same mail order catalog and the same trouble of meeting someone different than their letters.

You will laugh and enjoy the sweetness of these short stories. There is a slight aroma of religion, but it isn't strong and I found myself longing for more.

4 stars

I received this book in exchange for my honest review.

A Simple Change



Have you ever been really hungry and eaten a meal that just didn't satiate your appetite? For me, this book was like that.

Jancey makes a difficult decision to move to a simpler place with her parents. Meanwhile, her jilted suitor tries to get her back and she gains the interest of several single fellows in her new town.

When her curiosity lands her in a heap of trouble, she learns to rely on God's strength and not her own thoughts.

This book was sweet, and surface level. I had longed for the author to go so much deeper. There were multiple relationships and situations in this book that just weren't explained or given depth to.

I think this book has incredible potential, but it just didn't meet up with my hungry expectations.

3 stars

I received this book in exchange for my honest review.

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

Redeeming Love - 5 stars



Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers

It wouldn't be right to have a blog about good books and not review Redeeming Love, by Francine Rivers. This book captivates me. It is based upon the book of Hosea in the Bible. I found myself reading and rereading that obscure book in the Old Testament, because I had to know more.

This book helped me develop a deeper understanding of the love of God. The heroine of the book, Angel, lived her young life in prostitution. She was in and out of brothels, until Michael rescues her from that existence to follow the Lord's guidance. I found myself relating to Angel, who runs away from this man who loves her so much, only to return to her past existence. Likewise, it is so hard for me to stay in the midst of God's gracious love when my sinful past seems hard, but comfortable. At least I know I deserve my past.

In the book, I found my heart being transformed with Angel's. Her hard heart against Michael and God was melted through the continual love and grace shown to her.

This book WILL change the way you see yourself in God's eyes. I definitely give it 5 stars!

-I received this book in exchange for my honest review.

Friday, July 5, 2013

Letter to Katie - 3 stars






















I have read Amish novels before. I found Letters to Katie somewhat lacking though. I realize that may be because I haven't read any other in the series. The characters were hard to follow and seemed limitedly developed.

I did like the fact that this story was unpredictable. Katie fawns over a man who has never returned her affections. Then, when he does, it seems it might be too late. I enjoyed the fact that Katie turns to God instead of pining away after different men.

Overall, if you like Amish books, then I would recommend this one. If not though, you might try a different series.

-I received this book in exchange for my honest review.
     

Tuesday, July 2, 2013

Splitting Harriet - 4 stars

























Splitting Harriet was a sweet, summer read. I loved how this book was a little different, and not too predictable.

I really enjoyed this book. Harriet is a prodigal turned Pharisee. As a Pastor's kid, she rebelled in her teen years and ended up on the wrong side of a biker bar. Now she is reformed, but grace seems to have lost its place in her life.

When a church consultant threatens to cause turmoil in everything she holds dear, will her faith be enough to see her through?

 I connected with Harriet as a rebel who had to learn about God's grace myself, I know how hard it can be to swing to the extreme side. From the one being judged to the judger. Harriet has to learn how to lighten up and allow God's grace and forgiveness wash over her and others. In the process, Maddox helps reveal some things in her heart that she has kept hidden. Their relationship develops in a very real and entertaining way. They are both very believable characters, as if you could go to your neighborhood church and meet them.

 I have never read a book by this author before, but I certainly will be looking for others from now on.

- I received this book in exchange for my honest review