Wolvers: pursuit, survival and redemption deep in the American Southwest

Wolvers by Taylor Brown is a story of pursuit, survival and redemption deep in the American Southwest. Trace Temple is looking for revenge. Broke and angry at the government after his family loses their New Mexico ranch. Living out of his truck when he is approached by a shady militia movement hires him to take down One-Eleven, the legendary she-wolf of the Dark Canyon pack. However, One-Eleven is no ordinary wolf. Cunning and seasoned in the ways of men, she’s always one step ahead of those who hunt her. After surviving a brush with death, Trace has a change of heart and joins forces with a survivalist and a local rancher in order to stop his replacement: a professional hunter and assassin who ruthlessly pursues his quarry including Trace himself. 

I have always loved wolves and find them fascinating. Wolvers is defined as one who behaves like a wolf or one who searches or hunts for wolves. From the opening chapter, Wolvers is a suspenseful, thrilling story as nature battles man and man battles man. I loved the wolf, One-Eleven as she skillfully eludes her hunters and I thoroughly enjoyed her sections of the story. Mr Brown does a great job with One-Eleven’s personality and I was reminded of Two Socks from Dances With Wolves (1990) and Jack London’s White Fang (1906). The sections with Trace and the other humans definitely had me rooting for One-Eleven and her pack. Overall, I enjoyed this story. It was thrilling and kept me on the edge of my seat. I highly recommend Wolvers. 

Wolvers is available in hardcover, eBook and audiobook

Sexual sin and immorality: what is it? What is it's high cost? Is there redemption?

Sexuality is powerful and the nature of sexual intimacy is progressive. Sex is a deeply intimate act with one’s own body and another. The longer a couple lets each other be physically affectionate, the harder it becomes to resist temptation to proceed further. Once again I chose a difficult topic to discuss in my blog. I struggled with the amount of information and trying to organize it in a way that made sense. It took awhile to get the right words down in a way that was truthful and yet encouraging to those who may struggle with sexual sin. I wasn’t sure I would even write this one, let alone post it; however, I feel it is too important not to and my prayer that readers will have their eyes opened and turn to Jesus for guidance and forgiveness. What is sexual immorality? What is the high cost of sexual sin? Is there redemption if you are in sexual sin? 

Wherever we look, sex is everywhere. It is in our media. It is in our music, our television and movies. It is online. Sexual content has never been more accessible and available to us at the click of a button. Sexual immorality is any sexual activity outside of the covenant of marriage of a man and a woman. Any sexual contact including adultery and premarital and extramarital sex. Hebrews 13:4 says that marriage should be honored and the marriage bed kept pure. Biblically, sex is more than just the physical act, it is a connection of two souls. Two shall become one (Genesis 2:24). Any sex outside of a husband and wife is dishonorable in God’s eyes. When can a couple be considered married? The Bible isn’t clear about the exact requirements. Although traditions were developed that marriage is created through a religious ceremony. In modern terms, it is the legal documentation and a ceremony of some kind. Another question that may be on most Christian couples minds: can there be sexual immorality within marriage? There are some Christian leaders who would teach the prohibition of certain sexual acts and positions. However, I believe each couple should bring their questions before God and seek His guidance. If there is any doubt in their minds, then it should be prohibited for them.

There are people who believe there is nothing wrong with sleeping with whomever you want, whenever you want. The higher your body count the better. However, there is a high cost to sexual sin. Sex is everywhere. It would be difficult to go about our day and not see it, think about it or be exposed to it. 1 Corinthians 6:12 tells us that just because things are lawful doesn’t mean it is helpful. Alcohol and tobacco are legal but are harmful to your bodies. In the same way, just because sex outside marriage isn’t illegal, doesn’t mean it doesn’t harm us in some way (Proverbs 7:22-23). Sexual sin is a sin against the self. 1 Corinthians 6:18 says “Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body.” It always hurts someone with a broken trust and deep emotional wounds that are difficult to repair. It can physically harm our bodies through diseases and infections. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, in 2021 the rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including gonorrhea, syphilis and chlamydia were at an all time high in the US (more than 2.5 million). These infections can lead to other health issues including pelvic inflammatory disease, HIV, certain cancers and infertility. Therefore, the high cost of sexual sin isn’t just spiritual. It is emotional. It is physical. And it can be even socially. 

Is there redemption? Yes, there is. In 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, Paul lists the sins that we can commit that we cannot inherit the kingdom of God, including sexual immorality, adulterers, prostitutes and homosexual offenders. However, he continues in verse 11, “And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.” When we come to Jesus in repentance, those sins can be wiped away and we can be made clean and whole again. 1 John 1:9 tells us that “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” When we admit our sins, we acknowledge that our acts were sinful and we need to turn from it and rely on Him to overcome it. It takes a great deal of humility to admit we are wrong and need help. There are ways to overcome sexual sin. First, remember your true identity as an adopted child of God (Romans 8:14-17) and focus on Him. Second, never let your guard down. 1 Peter 4:8 says “Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour,” Third, when you are tempted - RUN (1 Corinthians 6:18).

In conclusion, the Bible is clear about sex. From the beginning, God designed and intended sex to be between a man and a woman who entered the covenant of marriage. Jesus would confirm this design when he condemned divorce. The proper context for sexual activity is within a marriage and all conduct outside of marriage is prohibited. Sexuality is powerful and an intimacy that is clearly meant to be expressed between a man and a woman who are fully committed to each other in marriage. Sexual sin harms ourselves as well as others with a wide range of possible consequences in all areas of life. However, you can be forgiven and leave sexual immorality behind to find new purpose, meaning and fulfillment in Jesus Christ. It is not an easy path, but there is hope. I pray this information is helpful and those who are in sexual sin that you find the strength to turn away from it and turn toward Jesus. 

 

Make You Mine: a steamy forbidden, second chance romance

Make You Mine by Tia Louise is the first book in the Believe in Love series. Grayson “Gray” Cole and Andrea “Drew” Harris have been drawn together since he rescued her from a snake as a child and later comforted her when her mother passed away. Despite disapproval from her father and being her brother, Danny’s best friend, Gray was all of her firsts as they stole moments together. As he prepares to ship out with Danny to the Marines, he makes her a promise. When tragedy strikes, leaving Gray badly injured and her brother killed in action. Drew must find a way to pick up the pieces. Four years later, Gray returns to their small town and finds that Drew is no longer the teenage girl he left behind but a gorgeous woman. Filled with regret and guilt, he knows he needs to stay away from her but something draws him to her. 

Mine You Mine has everything: brother’s best friend, a forbidden love, military, small town, second chance romance with redemption, finding yourself and home. It is a sweet, spicy romance with a happily ever after that I could not put down. I loved Gray as he tried to rebuild his life and be worthy of Drew. I loved Drew who loved Gray before and loves him still. There was no one else for her. When they can no longer deny that their connection was still there, the sparks flew like the Fourth of July. I loved their supporting characters, especially Drew’s best friend, Ruby. I do hope she gets her own romance in this series. Even the characters who tried to throw monkey wrenches into their romance were great characters to hate. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this story and I look forward to the other books. I highly recommend Make You Mine. 

Make You Mine is available in paperback and eBook

Someone to Trust: an inspirational story about faith, hope and joy

Someone to Trust is the second book in the Life Unexpected trilogy by Melanie D. Snitker. Chess Summers never got a “real” family growing up. Entering the foster care system at a young age and he grew up feeling alone. As an adult, he created a makeshift family with other former foster kids that finally gave Chess the sense of belonging. However when his insecurities from the past threaten his future, Chess sees everything he holds dear begin to fall away. Brooke Pierce has had a tough life but her trust in Christ has kept her going. She has harbored a crush for Chess but he has made it clear that he saw no future for them. When Chess begins to see Brooke differently and as Brooke starts to move on, Chess must ask himself the difficult questions, especially his own doubts about God and faith. 

Someone to Trust is a wonderful inspirational Christian novel that hits the tough questions about the power of faith, hope, and the joy found in redemption. I enjoyed Chess as he struggles with his doubts and the honesty in his questions. I also enjoyed the answers that he received as real and honest. There was no flowery, everything will be perfect in their answers but faith helps the struggles lighter. One of my favorite quotes from Chess’s brother, Joel, as he answers Chess’s questions: “We can’t control what happens around us, Chess, but we can control the choices we make in the midst of it all.” So very true! I devoured this book and I look forward to reading the third and final book in the trilogy.  I highly recommend Someone to Trust as well as the first book in the trilogy, Safe in His Arms.

Someone to Trust is available in paperback and eBook

No More Secrets: a story of redemption

No More Secrets is the third and final book of the No More Words trilogy by Kerry Lonsdale. Lucas Carson has led a troubled life filled with emotional trauma and secrets. When his sister, Lily, resurfaces after years of silence, Lucas can’t deal with the overwhelming guilt that he goes radio silent. Hiding in California City, Lucas crosses paths with Shiloh Bloom, a fifteen year old runaway. As Shiloh reminds Lucas of his little sister, he feels compelled to help her get off the streets. He gives her food, shelter and even a job. Soon, their arrangement is threatened when their pasts find them. Lucas wants it all to end. Is a normal life possible? Does he have the strength to stop running and face his demons?

What an ending to this trilogy! No More Secrets is a story of redemption and healing. Ms. Lonsdale writes with honesty and hope. My heart broke for Lucas as he desperately fights his demons with an almost death wish and yet a powerful will to keep going. I enjoyed Lucas and Shiloh’s relationship as they both want to be hard and unfeeling but can’t hide a need to protect and be protected. There is a confrontation scene near the end that is just superb! I can’t reveal what happens because SPOILERS! However, it was awesome and I cheered as Olivia, Lily and Lucas confronted their pasts and forged a better future for themselves as individuals and as a family. I highly recommend No More Secrets. 

No More Secrets will be available 

in paperback, eBook, and audiobook on March 14, 2023

No More Words and No More Lies, books 1 and 2,

are currently available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

Gomer: a story of unfaithfulness, redemption and love

Gomer is known in the Bible as the unfaithful wife of the prophet Hosea. We don’t hear from her in Scriptures. We only know of her actions. After she married Hosea, she carried on numerous affairs. She would give gifts to her lovers than were gifted to her by Hosea. She is the symbol of spiritual adultery. A picture of Israel’s unfaithfulness to God. However, Hosea continued to love her despite her unfaithfulness. She is more than just an unfaithful wife. She is an illustration of the redeeming love that God has for us despite our unfaithfulness. What’s her story? What is a redeeming love? How is she an illustration? 

Hosea was a prophet. An important man in Israel. He was the mouthpiece of God to His people. He would be the man to steer the nation with his prophecies; but, he couldn’t control his wife. God had instructed Hosea to take Gomer as his wife and love her as God loved Israel. Many scholars believed that Gomer was faithful in the beginning. Hosea 1:3 says that Gomer bore Hosea a son. However, in verses 6 and 8, Gomer has two more children. However, Hosea’s name is not mentioned. It has led scholars to believe that the last two children were not Hosea’s biological children but the children of her lovers. Sometime after the birth of her first child, she became unfaithful. When Gomer is mentioned again in Hosea 3, Hosea is instructed to buy her back. The Bible doesn’t say why she had to be bought back. Two possibilities is that she sold herself into prostitution or she was another man’s mistress. But he pays and he brings her home. 

A redeeming love is a love that frees someone from a burden. Hosea redeemed Gomer from the burden of being a prostitute or another man’s mistress. God has redeemed us from sin through His Son, Jesus Christ. God loves us and remains faithful even when we are not. He waits with open arms for us to repent and turn back to Him. God remains faithful at all times. When we get busy and put others before Him. Whether it is work, family responsibilities, and even our church and charitable obligations. Like many people, I am prone to pay attention to what needs my immediate attention and push, even unwittingly, aside my time with God. But He always welcomes me back with open arms and forgiveness for my inattentiveness. I try to do my best but I’m not perfect. I will never be perfect. I will fall from time to time but God will be there to help me up when I do. He will let me try again. You may think you are too far gone for help. But you are not. He is there waiting. He will welcome you back and let you try again. 

Gomer becomes an illustration for us. A person who seeks other pleasures and desires, turning from the One who remained lovingly faithful. Like Hosea, with every reason to cut ties with Gomer, God could have walked away from us. Leaving us to our choices and consequences. But God doesn’t walk away from us. He is not asking for perfection. He is asking for consistency, regular meetings. A prayer as you head to work, before a meal, and even before bed. You can pray whenever and wherever you want. A quick “Help me, Lord” in a moment of frustration or a stressful situation counts and He will hear. One of my favorite quiet times is bedtime as I lay my youngest daughter down to sleep, I pray. I pray for my shortcomings as a mom, a wife, and an overall person. I pray for my daughters and their successes and struggles. I pray for my husband as he prepares to rest and face work the next day. I pray in thankfulness for God’s love and mercy. I pray for this continued help as I live this life that He has given me. No fancy words needed, just words from your heart. 

In conclusion, Gomer was a woman who was unfaithful. She turned from her husband who loved her. She is later redeemed when she deserved to be left behind. God doesn’t want to leave us behind. He wants to love us and provide for us. We just need to come to Him. Through His Son, Jesus Christ, we are redeemed. Hosea redeems Gomer with valuables but we are redeemed through the precious blood of Jesus (1 Peter 1:18-19). Many people would focus on the fact that Hosea was forced to marry Gomer, a prostitute; however, they miss the most important picture. Gomer’s story is a story of redemption and love. 

The Last Rose of Shanghai: a story of love and redemption

The Last Rose of Shanghai by Weina Dai Randel is a story of love and redemption in Japanese-occupied Shanghai during World War II. Two very different people from very different cultures are drawn together through the freedom of music. In 1940, Aiyi Shao was a young heiress and the owner of a nightclub. A nightclub she wants to bring back its popularity and glamor. Ernest Reismann is a penniless Jewish refugee driven out of Germany. He is an outsider in a community wary of outsiders. Aiyi hires Ernest to play piano at her club, defying customs and the wishes of her family and fiancé. He becomes a sensation and the club becomes the hot spot once again. Soon Aiyi and Ernest share more than just a passion for jazz. As the war escalates, they find themselves torn apart time and time again as their choices between love and survival grow desperate. Will they find a way to be together? Or will the war keep them apart forever? 

I enjoyed that The Last Rose of Shanghai presents a story of World War II from another part of the world other than Europe. It is easily forgotten that the world was at war other than the European front. Unfortunately, the story was way too long with 92 chapters and alternating points of view between Aiyi and Ernest. Granted the chapters were short but the story dragged at points. The ending was a bit far-fetched. Ms. Randel’s descriptions of the music were so wonderful and lyrical that I could almost hear the music in my head as Ernest played. I saved quite a few great quotes. One of my favorites was “There is a kind of love that strikes like a thunderbolt; it blinds you, yet opens your eyes to see the world anew.” Overall, I enjoyed The Last Rose of Shanghai. If you enjoy World War II stories and are looking for new stories about the era, I recommend The Last Rose of Shanghai. 

The Last Rose of Shanghai is available in paperback, eBook, and audiobook

Third Time's the Charm: a story of finding home and love again

Third Time’s the Charm by Liz Talley is the fourth book in the Morning Glory series. “When you find someone who has no hope left, give the bracelet to her…” was the final request from Lacy but who would it be? Sunshine “Sunny” Voorhees David would rather be anywhere but back in Morning Glory, Mississippi. But after losing both her husband and a pregnancy, she had no choice but to come back home and fulfill a promise to her sister, Eden. While she waits for her chance to escape again, she’ll fix up the rundown family while trying to convince her mother to move. Oh! And avoid the man who broke her heart many years ago. Henry Delmar has been haunted by the mistake he made years ago and now that Sunny is back in town, he wants her forgiveness. But Sunny is nothing like he remembered. She is hurt, angry and has an impenetrable wall around her heart. Fate intervenes when Henry’s teenage son backs over Sunny’s Harley and the two are thrown together. He must find a way to rekindle their romance and prove to Sunny that her place is in Morning Glory with him. 

Third Time’s the Charm is a sweet romance about regret, redemption and finding love and home again. Sunny is a hardened woman who is struggling to find a new place in life. I sympathized with Sunny as she is reeling from her husband’s tragic death in Afghanistan and the loss of her preterm baby. As a woman who has suffered numerous miscarriages including a preterm infant loss, my heart broke for Sunny. I also liked that she was gutsy enough to ride a Harley. I’ll ride a Harley but someone else needs to be driving! I enjoyed Henry as a man who recognizes that he was a stupid kid that resulted in their ultimate break up. I also laughed at the “we were on a break” mentality he had when discussing their break-up and waited for the Friends reference to come up sooner or later. While not my favorite of the Morning Glory series, I enjoyed the growth and development in the relationships between Sunny and her mother, Betty, who was a piece of work, and Sunny and Henry. If you have read the previous Morning Glory books, you will enjoy Third Time’s the Charm. If you haven’t started the series, I highly recommend starting with book 1, Charmingly Yours. 

Third Time’s the Charm is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

Book 1, Charmingly Yours is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

A Single Swallow: a heartbreaking story

A Single Swallow by Zhang Ling, translated by Shelly Bryant is a story about the devastation of war, forgiveness, redemption, and the enduring power of love. On the historic day, August 15, 1945, the Jewel Voice Broadcast aired the speech of Emperor Hirohito which announced Japan’s surrender to the Allied Forces, bringing an end to World War II. Three men made a pact. After their deaths, each year on the anniversary of the broadcast, their souls would return to Yuehu, the Chinese village where they fought and survived in a war that shook the world and changed their lives forever. Now seventy years later, the pledge is being fulfilled by Pastor Billy, an American missionary, Ian Ferguson, a brash gunner’s mate, and Liu Zhaohu, a local soldier. All that is missing is Yao Ah Yan. She was the girl each man loved in his own profound way. As they retell their personal stories of the war and the woman who touched his life, the story of Ah Yan is revealed. What was her story and how did she profoundly influence the lives of these three men? 

A Single Swallow is a beautiful story told from the memories of three dead men who talk about their wartime experiences. Experiences centered around one woman. From the opening chapter, I was pulled into the interesting premise of these men visiting after death. I eagerly turned each page as I read how each man knew this woman and how they changed each other’s lives, for good and bad. It was a book I could not put down. I happened to finish it in a few hours. But the story was so engaging that I barely noticed the time. Ms. Zhang weaves a complex tapestry of cause and consequence that can forever shape one’s life and how our inner strength determines how we respond to those situations and challenges. I also enjoyed the ending and felt it was very fitting. It was a captivating read which figures a part of the World War II story that is overshadowed by stories of the European front. A few reviews I read disliked that Ah Yan’s voice is never heard; however, I enjoyed this aspect as it gave her a mysterious air. I highly recommend A Single Swallow. 

A Single Swallow is available in paperback, eBook, and audiobook

Whispers from Yesterday: a story of healing through the past

Whispers from Yesterday by Robin Lee Hatcher is a story of the stories of the past healing the present. As the story opens, Karen Butler opens her eyes in a hospital after a failed suicide attempt. She had lost everything when her father’s business ventures failed and he killed himself to hide from the fall out. She is urged to go to her estranged grandmother’s ranch in Idaho. There Sophia Taylor runs a youth summer camp for at risk boys. With the help of Dusty Stoddard, she hopes to help these young men from turning down the wrong path. The sudden appearance of Karen lifts Sophia’s hopes that she can redeem herself from her life’s regrets. At Sophia’s urging, Karen begins to read her great-aunt Esther’s diaries. Inside holds the secrets long buried. As Karen begins to learn the truth, can she finally find a purpose and a place to belong? Or will the truth chase her away once again? 

Whispers from Yesterday is a story of the present mixed with the diary entries from the past. It is a story of salvation as Karen, who resists the calling of Jesus, as she sees herself as unworthy and unlovable, finds herself drawn to the one who loved her first. It is a heartbreaking story as well as a story of hope that we are not alone even in our darkest hours. Karen’s questions and resistances to salvation are the same that many of us face as we cannot conceive that Jesus loves them as they are and is ready to help them. I enjoyed each character as they are fully flawed and related. My only complement is that the ending was much too abrupt for me. There were a few plot lines that were left hanging as the story ends. Overall, I enjoyed the story and I recommend Whispers from Yesterday. 

Whispers from Yesterday is available in paperback and eBook

Dovetail: a family tragedy and its aftermath

Dovetail is the newest book by Karen McQuestion. Pearl Arneson has lived a life of many regrets. She is the only one left who knows the truth about her sister, Alice’s death. The story opens in 1983 when 84-year-old Pearl Arneson seeks out her grandson, 22-year-old Joe, who was placed in a psychiatric treatment center for disturbing dreams with no clear cause or psychiatric break. She has a job for him. The family home in Pullman, Wisconsin needs to be cleaned and the items inventoried in order to sell the house. Joe takes the job, hoping the work can help him figure out these strange dreams. Rewind to 1916, when 17-year-old Pearl, the second of seven daughters, dreams of leaving their tiny town and traveling the world. Her older sister, Alice, is 19 years old and takes care of the family after the tragic death of their mother. That summer a handsome and eligible bachelor comes to the family’s farm to work at the local mill. John Lawrence is immediately infatuated with Alice, much to the horror of Pearl and Frank, the local man who fancies himself Alice’s beau. As the summer progresses and love blossoms between John and Alice, Pearl tries her best to keep them apart, but will her schemes go too far? In 1983, Joe works on the family home and develops a friendship with a local businesswoman, Kathleen, who is hiding a painful past herself. Joe notices a change in his dreams. He finds pieces of his family’s history that he knew nothing about. Will Joe find peace from his dreams? Will Pearl find the forgiveness she is seeking?

Dovetail is a beautiful, tragic story filled jealousy, guilt, redemption and finding peace within yourself. It is a story of how one tragedy can cause a cascade of poor decisions and life-altering mistakes. In the opening chapter, Pearl admits Alice died because of her foolish pride and with that note, the reader is taken on a journey between 1916 and 1983 as the mystery unfolds. How did Alice die? How is Pearl responsible? How is Pearl’s grandson, Joe, connected to it all? While I had a hard time sympathizing with teenage Pearl, as an older woman, I enjoyed Pearl as she realizes her time is short and wants to make amends or atonement for her actions. I laughed at her no-nonsense attitude. I related more to and enjoyed Alice and watching her fall in love was bittersweet. Even though, I knew from the beginning that she dies, her death was painful, emotional and shocking. I enjoyed Joe’s story and his battle with what he has been told is a mental illness, but he realizes it just doesn’t fit. I also enjoyed the relationship development between Joe and Kathleen. It felt very realistic as a woman who was running from a past bad relationship to be cautious going forward. Joe and Kathleen have a connection they couldn’t explain but they let their relationship flow naturally. The romances in the story are done beautifully. Dovetail is my first Karen McQuestion book and it won’t be my last. I look forward to reading her past titles and eagerly await her new books. I highly recommend Dovetail! 

Dovetail

is available in paperback, eBook, and audiobook

Land of Silence: a fictionalized story of one woman's journey to Jesus and ultimate healing

Land of Silence by Tessa Afshar is the story of Elianna, a young girl torn apart by guilt. When her younger brother, the pride and joy of her family, dies while under her care, Elianna seeks forgiveness by working in her father’s textile trade and caring for her grieving parents and younger sister. She finds herself in the sole charge of the business, her talent for design brings amazing success; however, despite her success and work ethic, she doesn’t receive the forgiveness she seeks. As her world unravels, she breaks off her engagement with a man she loves, sacrificing her feelings so that he can find a wife worth of him. Illness strikes, leaving her at the misery of doctors with different cures but to no avail. Soon she is isolating from everyone and everything she loves as Jewish law dictates. Soon whispers of a man who heals sweeps through the land. Can this Jesus be the answer to her healing? Can she finally find the life she always dreamed of?

Land of Silence is a fictionalized story of the woman who suffered from a bleeding issue. Her encounter with Jesus is told in Matthew 9:20-22; Mark 5:25-34, and Luke 8:43-48. All we know of her is what happens during her encounter with Jesus but what lead her to this state of desperation? A bleeding issue would have put her on the fringes of Jewish society as bleeding made her unclean. What happened to her after she is healed by Jesus? Ms. Afshar writes an amazing story of guilt, struggles, redemption and freedom that forgiveness can bring. At times you will sympathize with Elianna and other times you want to shake her and tell her to stop being so stubborn. I liked that everything about her changed after her encounter with Jesus. Her demeanor, her attitude and her outlook on her life and her future changed. I highly recommend Land of Silence.

Land of Silence

is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook

The Winemaker''s Wife: a beautiful story during a horrible time in history

The Winemaker’s Wife by Kristin Harmel is a story of war, of survival, of betrayal and of redemption. The story opens in May 1940, Ines Chauveau and her husband, Michel have been married for almost a year. They live among the vineyards of the Champagne regions and produce some of the finest Champagne. News comes to them that the Germans have invaded France and Michel begins his preparations. Fast forward to June 2019, Liv Kent is 41 years old, jobless, childless and on the verge of divorce when her eccentric grandmother, Edith Thierry, arrives and takes to her Paris. The story travels back and forth between 1940-1943 as Ines, Michel and their friends, Theo Laurent, the head winemaker and his wife, Celine, deal with the German occupation and June 2019 as Liv is trying to figure out what her Grandma Edith needs to tell her but seems very reluctant to do so. Liv meets Julien Cohn, a family friend and lawyer who knows parts of Edith’s story but can’t reveal what he knows without betrayal attorney-client privilege. What horrors do Ines, Michel, Theo and Celine must endure in order to survive? What is the connection to Liv and Edith now?

Last year, I reviewed Ms. Harmel’s The Room on Rue Amelie and loved it. When I had the opportunity to read The Winemaker’s Wife, I eagerly looked forward to it. Both books feature events surrounding the French Resistance between World War II. While I enjoyed The Room on Rue Amelie, I loved The Winemaker’s Wife! This book was filled with drama, action, intrigue and tears from the opening chapter to the closing pages. I enjoyed every character and loved how they evolved and did their part during the war. There are great moments which I can’t discuss as it will give away major plot twists, but it is a story of great endurance and survival. Most American history class teach World War II with a brief synopsis of the war before 1941 when the Americans officially entered the war, so I enjoyed reading about the French Resistance and the underground which fought against German occupation. One of my favorite quotes from the book is from Grandma Edith who says, “Many people lose more than they can image, and they find a way to carry one.” This statement certainly describes the individuals who fought against unbelievable odds to survive. I highly, highly recommend The Winemaker’s Wife. It is an amazing, beautiful story with twists and turns that just when you think you see where the story is heading, you’re wrong! It will not disappoint!

The Winemaker’s Wife

is available in hardcover, eBook and audiobook

The Ones Who Got Away: a heartfelt survivor story with a great love story

The Ones Who Got Away by Roni Loren is the first book of Ms. Loren’s new series. A love story about two survivors who meet years later and find healing as the sparks fly. Olivia “Liv” Arias returns to her hometown of Long Acre, Texas to film a documentary about the shooting at her senior prom twelve years ago. As she sees the other survivors, there is one she wasn’t expecting to see. Finn Dorsey was her secret high school boyfriend who was the hero of that night. The moment their eyes met, she realized that the old feelings were still burning bright. As the two fight their attraction and deal with their old haunts and memories of that horrific night, they realize that healing only comes from within. Will they continue to fight their attraction? Will they let the memories of the shooting continue to keep them apart?

The Ones Who Got Away is a beautiful story about redemption, healing and moving forward. With the added bonus of a sizzling love story which will take your breath away. I won a copy from the publisher through Bookishfirst.com and I eagerly waited and waited for this book to arrive. And it was worth the wait. I enjoyed every character as they deal with who they were before the shooting and who they’ve become after. I look forward to reading book 2, The One You Can’t Forget which will be available June 5, 2018. I highly recommend The Ones Who Got Away. If you enjoy a great, emotional story with a wonderful love story, you will enjoy this book.

The Ones Who Got Away

is available in paperback and eBook

Hagar: a study into a minor Biblical figure with a big life lesson for us all

Hagar Rediscovering the God who sees me by Shadia Hrichi is a 7 week Bible study about Hagar and her role in the Bible and God’s influence in her life. Each week is divided into 5 days of personal study with each day having one or more questions to ponder or group discussion. The author states in her introduction that Hagar is a great example of someone who discovered God during a difficult time in her life. A minor character with a powerful redemptive story. What lessons can be gleaned from a woman who suffered at the hands of others? What did God do for Hagar that He can still do for us?

This study is very interesting. Unfortunately, I had no time to fully do the study before posting my review; however, after reading though the study, I am eager to do the study in its entirety. I found the format cut off in the eBook version, if you can get a physical copy and want a study, I highly recommend Hagar Rediscovering the God who sees me.

Hagar Rediscovering the God who sees me

Is available in paperback and eBook. 

Refuge on Crescent Hill: where the truth will set you free

Refuge on Crescent Hill by Melanie Dobson is a story of family secrets and one woman’s journey home. Camden Bristow was a photographer who traveled the world taking photos of amazing sights and documenting tragic events. Until one day when the calls for her work stopped. Left destitute, her only option is return to her grandmother’s home on Crescent Hill. As she heads there, she has no idea what awaits her or what secrets will be revealed once she gets there. Alex Yates is the charge of the economic development for the same town of Etherton but every one of his ideas has been shot down by the city council and he is desperate for the next idea. Alex is running from his own past and a secret he’s desperate to keep hidden. Stephanie Ellison-Carter is a student writing a research paper about the Ellison family. She learns that her family had some jewels stolen and the theft could be linked to the disappearance of one of the Ellison’s slaves. As their journeys began to merge, their own personal secrets will be revealed. Will Camden finally find a home? Is there someone who is trying to sabotage Alex’s attempts to boost the town? How are Camden, Alex and Stephanie linked to the Crescent Hill?

I thoroughly enjoyed Refuge on Crescent Hill. Having read Ms. Dobson’s books before, I was eager to dive into this one and it did not disappoint. From the opening page to the closing epilogue, the story is driven family secrets, evil plots and twists and turns of a great mystery. I enjoyed all the characters, even the villains fit well especially the ones you wouldn’t suspect. When the connection between the three characters are revealed, it is an emotional moment for the characters as well for the reader. It reminds you that we might be strangers but our family pasts may be connection through an amazing story of strength, courage and bravery.  Even though I wanted to strangle Camden at times for being an idiot, I cheered for her by the end. I highly recommend Refuge on Crescent Hill. 

Refuge on Crescent Hill

is available in paperback and eBook

The Kite and the Boy: a story of patience, forgiveness and redemption

The Kite and the Boy by Aaron Duffy and illustrated by Kary Haaland Greene is the story of a kite who longed to fly higher and higher until he learns that fly high isn’t so grand. A kite lived in the window of a toy store and each day he hoped to be taken home. Each day that hope was dashed until one day when a boy bought him. The boy immediately put his initials on the kite and took it flying. All summer long, the boy took the kite flying and the kite loved soaring and swooping in the sky. One day, the kite noticed a flock of birds were flying higher than he was and he wanted to fly higher too. But the boy wouldn’t let him. The kite continued to fight, trying to fly higher until his string snapped and he was carried away by a strong wind. At first, the kite enjoyed the new heights until he realized something was wrong. Will the boy find the kite again? Will the kite be able to fly with the boy again?

The Kite and the Boy is a beautiful, simple story of how our desires can make us lose sight of what really matters. It is a lesson that we may not always reach the heights we want to until we are ready to do so. It is also a tale of forgiveness and the beauty of redemption. I highly recommend The Kite and the Boy for any family or school library.

The Kite and the Boy

is available in paperback and in eBook

The Kite Runner: a story of forgiveness and redemption

The Kite Runner is the first novel by Khaled Hosseini. It starts in Afghanistan before the country was torn apart by politics, racial prejudice and war. As a young boy learns about the world around him and the delicate balance between doing what is right and staying quiet out of fear. The story opens in December 2001, as a man muses that the past never stays buried. As it has a way to crawl to the present. Amir lives with his widowed father, their servant, Ali, and Ali’s son, Hassan. It seems to be an idyllic life until July 17, 1973 when the king is overthrown and a new government is established. By March 1981, Amir and his father must leave the country and become refugees on their way to America. Once in America, Amir learns to make a new life for himself. He goes to college and even gets married. His life goes smoothly until he receives a letter which will turn his life around and send him back to his homeland in search of forgiveness and redemption.

The Kite Runner is the second novel I’ve read by Khaled Hosseini and his storytelling ability is wonderful. I love this descriptions of Afghanistan before it was torn apart and you can almost imagine it was life in America. As many people in America, I didn’t know much about Afghanistan until 9/11 and Mr. Hosseini’s writing brings a beautiful country to life, brings it’s people to life and brings the long series of events which led to the country status now, to heartbreaking light. I highly recommend The Kite Runner.

The Kite Runner

Is available at all major booksellers

Pokergeist: a ghost story in the seedy side of Las Vegas

Pokergiest by Michael Phillip Cash is story of a man who is down and out and gets help from the ghost of a poker legend. A story of life with unfinished business and a life trying to get back on its feet in the bright lights of Las Vegas.

Telly Martin is a former IT consultant who lost his job when the economy turned sour. He and his girlfriend, Gretchen, are living a hotel while they both get back on their feet. Telly is trying to make enough money by playing poker. The problem is he isn’t very good. Until he is visited by the ghost of Clutch Henderson, a poker legend who died the year before after losing in an international poker tournament. Near his breaking point and despite his doubts, Telly reluctantly agrees to ty poker one more time. With Clutch’s help, Telly is able to earn enough money to enter in the International Series of Poker (Cash’s version of the World Series of Poker which is held in Las Vegas every year). Will Telly be able to win? Will anyone believe that he sees the ghost of a poker legend?

I enjoyed Pokergeist as I have enjoyed other Michael Phillip Cash’s books. When I received the book, it came with a parental advisory note. It stated that the book is intended for mature audience because it includes strong language. I was shocked. I have never read a book before which came with an advisory. Keeping this in mind, I read the book and I didn’t see anything which would require an advisory. There was some strong audience but nothing I haven’t heard on TV. I really enjoyed the relationship between Telly and Gretchen. I also enjoyed the scenes at the poker tables. Mr. Cash really captures the tension and psychological mind games which occurs during poker games. I recommend Pokergeist to anyone who enjoys a good ghost story and the game of poker.