Missing Molly Book Review

The Courtships of Lancaster County

Book Three

SUMMARY:  Molly Zook has everything planned just right.  Or so she thinks!

     Molly Zook's always liked being in control, so she's struggling with her mother's wish that, to save the family farm, she marry Mervin Mosier.  Especially after Molly meets Leon Fisher.  He's from Montana but is now training horses at a nearby ranch.  He's tall and muscular and confident - Molly has never met anyone like him and she's sure he feels the same about her.

     Determined to let nothing get between them, Molly tries to coax Mervin into falling back in love with Molly's best friend, Hannah.  A weekend camping trip in the Poconos could be just the place . . . but things quickly go awry, and it seems Leon and Hannah might be falling for each other instead!  Will Molly keep struggling to control everyone and everyone around here?  Or will she learn to let God handle the twists and turns of her life?

REVIEW:  Like the other books in this series, Minding Molly is patterned after one of Shakespeare's plays; this one being A Midsummer Night's Dream.  Having read it once before and vaguely familiar with the I had some idea of the basis of this book, but I would have liked to have been better acquainted with the storyline to follow the events of this book better. 

     While the story was good, at times I felt like it dragged in places.  The characters were interesting but at times there were too many people and stories to keep track of.  The ending and final matching of individuals was a bit surprising but totally made up for the areas I had trouble with.
     This is a book worth checking out.  Like I said earlier, I think if I had been more familiar with Midsummer Night's Dream, I would have enjoyed this novel much more.  This has been a very interesting series so this book deserves a chance.   

This book was provided by Bethany House for review without compensation.

Leslie Gould is the author of THE COURTSHIPS OF LANCASTER COUNTY series and co-author of the #1 bestselling The Amish Midwife, winner of the 2012 Christy Award for Contemporary Series.  She holds an MFA in creative writing from Portland State University and resides in Portland, Oregon.  Visit her online on Facebook or at LeslieGould.com.

The Thief Book Review

The Living Water Series

Book Two

SUMMARY: MY GOD, MY GOD, WHY HAVE YOU ABANDONED ME?

     Nissa is a Jewish woman with a sharp tongue and no hope of marriage.  Abandoned by the God she once loved, her only recourse is to depend upon Mouse, the best thief in Jerusalem, to keep her blind brother, Cedron, fed and the landlord satisfied.

     Longinus is a Roman centurion haunted by death and failure and is desperate to escape the accursed Judean province.  Accepting a wager that will get him away from the aggravating Jews and their threats of revolt, he sets out to catch the thieves harassing the marketplace.

     When a controversial teacher miraculously heals Cedron, Nissa hopes for freedom from her life of lies.  But the supposed miracle brings only more misfortune, and Longinus, seeking to learn more about the mysterious healer, finds himself drawn instead to Nissa, whose secret will determine the course of both their futures.

     Cedron, Longinus, and Nissa are unexpectedly caught up in the arrest, trial, and crucifixion of Jesus.  As danger closes in on them from every side, they must decide if the love and redemption Jesus offers is true or just another false promise.  How can the so-called Messiah save them from their shackles, when he cannot even safe himself?

REVIEW:  The approach this author took with the story was very interesting and unique. Instead of Jesus being the main story, the author had his story running in the background but the focus was on Nissa, Cedron and Longinus.  This approach was interesting because the main characters only has contact with Jesus once but heard the stories of Jesus' teachings and miracles from those people around him.  

     Life was very hard for Nissa and Cedron.  Even after his sight is restored, Cedron doesn't find a job but instead hooks up with a band of Zealots ready to take action once Jesus leads his revolt against Rome.  Nissa is forced to find work the only way she knows how: robbing the visitors and patrons in the marketplace. 

     The changes Longinus goes through in regards to his thinking about the Jews and Jesus were interesting.  What the author had him do towards the end of the book was difficult to read but, as I read through it slowly, I understood why.

    The only complaint I have about the story is I thought it ended way to soon.  It stopped after Jesus' tomb is found to be empty and left me with a lot of unanswered questions.  Other than that, I enjoyed this book and look forward to reaching the next one when it come out.

     This is the second book in the Living Water series but stands on its own. I saw glimpses of what might have been from the first story but it flowed well with this one.

This book was provided by Litfuse Publicity Group for review without compensation.

Stephanie Landsem writes historical fiction because she loves adventure in far-off times and places.  In real life, she's explored ancient ruins, medieval castles, and majestic cathedrals around the world.  Stephanie is equally happy at home in Minnesota with her husband, four children, and three fat cats.  When she's not writing, she's feeding the ravenous horde, avoiding housework, and dreaming about her next adventure - whether it be in person or on the page.

Scraps of Evidence Book Review

Quilts of Love

Every Quilt Has A Story

SUMMARY:  Could a quilt really hold the secrets of a serial killer?

     Tess struggles to balance her career as a police detective and caring for her Aunt Susan.  Her partner, Logan, wants to help but find it hard to believe the brisk professional officer he works with during the day has a softer side - and a love of quilts.  It's a love Tess shares with Aunt Susan, who cherishes a particular quilt she made when she was younger.

     When some of Susan's cryptic comments about the quilt and its origins spark Tess's curiosity, the detective in her leads Tess to unravel the story behind this heirloom.  As she discovers the origins of the quilt, Tess unexpectedly uncovers clues that may lead her to a serial killer . . . a killer who is quite willing to kill again to keep his secrets hidden.

REVIEW:   After reading the summary of the book, I was intrigued with the idea of a quilt holding the secrets of a serial killer.  The author did not disappoint.  She kept me guessing as to who the killer was, how the quilt was involved and how everything was going to turn out.  Now, while I figured out early on who the killer was, this story did not disappoint.  I liked the twists and turns the story took and how even the most remote item or insignificant event linked up to something bigger.  I also like how she wrapped everything up, even laughing at some of her methods.  It would be delightful to see Tess and Logan turn up in a few more novels of this sort.  This was a good book and look forward to reading more stories from this author. 

This book was provided by Litfuse Publicity Group for review without compensation.

Barbara Cameron is the author of more than 35 fiction and nonfiction books and three nationally televised movies and is the winner of the first Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Award.  She currently resides in Edgewater, Florida.  Find out more about Barbara at BarbaraCameron.com and AmishLiving.com.

Princess Ever After Book Review

The Royal Wedding Series

Book Two

SUMMARY:  Regina Beswick didn't know she was born a princess.

     She's content to be a small-town girl, running a classic auto restoration shop, unaware that a secret destiny awaits her.  One that will leap from the pages of her grandmother's hand-painted book of fairy tales.

     Tanner Burkhardt is the stoic Minister of Culture for the Grand Duchy of Hessenberg.  When he is tasked to retrieve the long-lost princess, he must overcome his fear of failure in order to secure his nation's future - and his own.

     Yet lurking in the political shadows is a fierce opponent with sinister plans to abolish the throne forever.

     Overwhelmed with opposition, Regina must decide whether she's destined to restore old cars or an ancient nation.  Together - with a little divine intervention - Regina and Tanner discover the truth of her heritage and the healing power of true love.

REVIEW:  I like this book!  Regina is so cool!!  Even though she has struggled with finding out she is a true princess, she has been preparing for this role all her life.  Regina relies on her faith in God more and more as she has to make tough decisions.  I like how, once she goes to Hessenberg, she starts to heal a split between factions - one side wanting to return as a duchy; the other, wanting the stay as a protectorate of the kingdom of Brighton - without even trying.

     The only thing that I found disappointing was that it left out the events of her coronation and the first year of her rule.  Even though it would have added more to the story, I would have loved to see how Regina continues to adjust to being a royal and how the people react and respond to her rule.

     I really enjoyed this book!!  Reading it makes me want to read the first one and any others this author writes.

This book was provided by Litfuse Publicity Group for review without compensation.

Rachel Hauck, a RITA Finalist and Carol Award winner, was recently chosen by Family Fiction readers as one of the top five romance authors in CBA.  Rachel lives in central Florida with her husband and writes from her ivory tower.

The Dream Dress Book Review

Weddings by Design

Book Three

SUMMARY:  Big dreams take big leaps of faith ... but what if you trip on the way?

     A lowly seamstress at a swanky bridal boutique, Gabi Delgado dreams of doing more than ripping out seams and fitting dresses to doe-eyed brides.  She wants to see her own original dress designs gracing the women of Texas.  But when Jordan Singer, reporter for Texas Bride magazine, visits the shop to do a feature, Gabi is humbled in his influential - and unnervingly handsome - presence.

     Convinced she'll never get her dreams off the ground now, Gabi needs lots of encouragement - especially from her friend Bella Neely - to take a chance and start her business.  And as she gets to know Jordan, she discovers that she may have to take a chance on love as well.

REVIEW:  Having read the first two books of this series, I was excited to read the last one to see how everything finished.  Now, it can stand alone to but fully understand what is going on, it helps to have read the others. 

     I enjoyed reading Gabi's story, her desire to design her own dresses and to make a name for herself, getting the recognition she deserves.  She has a strong support system of friends and family that encourage her and help her when things start looking down.  I like some of the twists and turns the author takes with the story.  A few times I found myself laughing out loud.  There were some things, though, that I would like to have been different.  The story, although very enjoyable, seemed too sweet, especially when it came to the love interests.  Don't get me wrong.  I liked how she developed the characters and their relationships but sometimes wondered if events were too perfect.

     I did like this book and recommend it, and the rest of the series, to any and everyone.  My 13-year-old daughter loves them and can't wait to get her hands on this one. 

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

 

Janice Thompson is a seasoned romance author and screenwriter.  An expert at pulling the humor from the situations we get ourselves into.  Thompson offers an inside look at the wedding business, drawing on her own experiences as a wedding planner.  She is the author of the Weddings by Bella series and the Backstage Pass series, as well as Picture Perfect and The Icing on the Cake.  She lives in Texas.  Visit www.jancieathompson.com or more.

My Amish Boyfriend Book Review

SUMMARY:  Shannon's summer just got a whole lot more . . . Amish?
     Shannon McNamara has exciting plans for the summer - getting her driver's license, a job, and more - and she can't wait to dive in.  But her ill mother has plans of her own:  to relocate them both to the heart of Amish country in Ohio where she has relatives who can help her.
     Turns out a "simple" life is actually a lot of hard work.  But when a hot young Amish guy named Ezra enters the picture, Shannon's ready to get an Amish makeover and even consider making it a permanent change.  Will these plans come crashing down around her too?  Or can she really make the jump into a whole new way of life?
     Teen favorite Melody Carlson brings fan another surprising story of world - and families - colliding.

REVIEW:  Having read a few of Melody Carlson's young adult novels (along with quite a few of her ones written for adults) and my interest in Amish novels, I was curious about how this story would work out.  Shannon's care and concern for her very sick mother was touching.  She tries her best to take care of Anna even after they get to Ohio.  But once they moved in with Shannon's grandparents, some of the relationships starts moving too rapidly and some just seemed strange.  When Ezra comes over to return something, Shannon falls immediately head over heels in love with him.  They declare their love for each other the next time they meet, and then things start getting a little "too friendly" between them.  Very soon afterwards, Shannon considers becoming Amish.
     Also, even though Anna's parents love their daughter, they seem very distant towards her.  They don't want to give Anna her medicine and are resistant about taking her to the doctor when she takes a turn for the worse. 
     The time Shannon and Anna are in Ohio, to me, seems odd.  It's hard to describe.  I did like how Anna's health was a big concern for the new doctor and how she was able to help Anna get better.  The best parts seemed to be before they left for Ohio and while they were at the hospital.  The story in between just seems forced and strange.

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of more than two hundred books, including the Life at Kingston High series, the Dating Games series, Double Take, and A Simple Song.  She has received a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her many books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series and Finding Alice.  Melody and her husband live in Oregon.  Find out more at www.melodycarlson.com. 

Hopeful Book Review

Return to Sugarcreek

Book One

SUMMARY:  In the Amish town of Sugarcreek, love comes in many forms.  But will it come at all for Miriam?

     Miriam Zehr has worked at the Sugarcreek Inn longer than she cares to admit.  The restaurant is a favorite of town residents as well as the many tourists who come to taste the famous Amish fare.  Though she always tries to have a smile for every customer, deep down Miriam knows something's missing: a family of her own.

     Miriam has never felt particularly beautiful, especially because she's always been a bit heavier than other girls her age.  When Junior, the man she's pined for all her life, suddenly seeks her out, she's thrilled to be noticed ... until she realizes he's only asking her to help get the attention of Mary Kathryn Hershberger, her pretty friend.

     If Miriam helps Junior court Mary Kathryn, she'll get to spend a lot of time with him, but she might lose him in the process.  Are these few stolen moments worth a lifetime of sacrifice?  Is Miriam right to even hope for the life she dreams of?

REVIEW:  This book shows life can be difficult, whether we see it or not.  Miriam wants to have her own family but hasn't had a suitor.  Mary Kathryn is trying to hide from an abusive and controlling boyfriend and anyone of the male persuasion who wants to get close.  On the outside, both women look to have it all together but inside, don't.  

     Sometimes I had a hard time keeping my attention on the story.  I liked how Mary Kathryn was trying to stay safe but questioned some of her decisions: working in a job she hated, telling her parents where she was living when she knew they would tell her former boyfriend and his family, and going out with Junior but being resistant the whole time they are out.  Also, there were a few other stories mixed in, I guess from her Seasons of Sugarcreek series, that I had some difficulty completely following because I was not familiar with their backgrounds.  

     I did like how Miriam stepped in as a reading tutor to help Junior's sister, who was having a difficult time understanding what she read.  I also like how Junior, after being turned away as Mary Kathryn's suitor, stepped up to defend her when Mary Kathryn's former boyfriend showed up and started harassing her.  They didn't let their hurts get in the way of helping a friend in need.  

     This book also has a lot of extra features in the PS section with discussion questions, information about the author, a recipe and a sneak peek at the next book in this series.

     While this book isn't at the top of my list, it is still a pleasant read.

This book was provided by Litfuse Publicity Group for review without compensation.

 

Shelley Shepard Gray is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers' prestigious Carol Award, and a two-time HOLT Medallion winner.  She lives in southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town's bike trail.  More information can be found at www.shelleyshepardgray.com.