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Book Review: The Imposter

26 Oct

UnknownKatrina Stoltzfus thought she had life and love all figured out: she was going to marry John and live happily ever after. Those plans started to crumble when her father moved the family to Stoney Ridge, then completely collapsed when John decided to marry someone else. Katrina is devastated. How could she have felt so loved, yet been so deceived?

As she struggles to face a future without him, a widow asks for her help to start a new business and Katrina quickly agrees. She needs time to heal her broken heart, to untangle her messy life, to find a purpose. What she doesn’t need is attention from Andy Miller, a farm hand who arrives at the widow’s farm just when help is most needed–and who always seems to say the right thing, and be in the right place, at the right time. Is Andy for real, or too good to be true? Deceived once before, Katrina is determined to keep her feelings in check.

When a cascade of events is set in motion by some surprising information, the little Amish church is turned upside down. Soon, everyone has a stake in the outcome, and the community struggles to find the best response to an imposter in their midst. Can they forgive even the most deceitful deeds?

swf-headshot3Suzanne Woods Fisher’s interest in the Amish began with her grandfather, W.D. Benedict, who was raised Plain in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. Suzanne has a great admiration for the Plain people and believes they can provide wonderful examples to the world. In both her fiction and non-fiction books, she has an underlying theme: You don’t have to “go Amish” to incorporate many of their principles–simplicity, living with less, appreciating nature, forgiving others more readily, trusting in God–into your life.

When Suzanne isn’t writing or playing tennis (badly!) or bragging to her friends about her grandbabies (so cute!), she is raising puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind. To her way of thinking, you just can’t take life too seriously when a puppy is tearing through your house with someone’s underwear in its mouth. Suzanne can be found on-line at: http://www.suzannewoodsfisher.com.

 

My Impressions:

I have a confession to make. I am not a huge fan of Amish fiction. Sometimes it is just too idealistic in its portrayal of the plain people. But . . .  I am a huge fan of Suzanne Woods Fisher because though her genre of choice is Amish, she presents stories that are universal in their appeal and scope. Her latest novel, The Imposter, revisits Stoney Ridge where many of her novels are set. And while I love coming back to this Pennsylvania town and its Amish residents, this novel could really be set anywhere. The themes of grace vs legalism and true vs watered-down faith hit me where I live. This is a novel I can easily recommend.

The Stoltzfus family is struggling after the loss of wife and mother, Anna. David does his best to lead his children on the right path while leading the small flock of Stoney Ridge. But there is unrest in his home as well as in the community. Will David be able to hold on to what is important while facing an uncertain future?

The Imposter is told with humor and heart, and, as always, Suzanne creates wonderful characters. Full of quirks and personality they are anything but perfect, but they are certainly real. The Amish community of Stoney Ridge could be a church anywhere. It is facing the task of staying relevant in a fast-changing world. It, like so many other churches, is struggling to keep young people engaged while holding fast to God’s truth. There is always a danger of watering down the Gospel when attempting to make church more appealing. Grace is also difficult to extend when pride, greed, and self-righteous interests are held so tightly. This is the first book in The Bishop’s Family series. The Stoltzfus family is large and filled with interesting and intriguing members — there are lots of future stories to be told. I am definitely looking forward to reading more.

Recommended.

Audience: older teens to adults.

To purchase this book, click HERE. 

(Thanks to Revell for a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

 

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Aduiobook Review: The Curse of Crow Hollow

23 Oct

51zref80qGL._SX322_BO1,204,203,200_Everyone in Crow Hollow knows of Alvaretta Graves, the old widow who lives in the mountain. Many call her a witch; others whisper she’s insane. Everyone agrees the vengeance Alvaretta swore at her husband’s death hovers over them all. That vengeance awakens when teenagers stumble upon Alvaretta’s cabin, incurring her curse. Now a sickness moves through the Hollow. Rumors swirl that Stu Graves has risen for revenge. And the people of Crow Hollow are left to confront not only the darkness that lives on the mountain, but the darkness that lives within themselves.

 

bcoffey-209Billy Coffey‘s critically-acclaimed books combine rural Southern charm with a vision far beyond the ordinary. He is a regular contributor to several publications, where he writes about faith and life. Billy lives with his wife and two children in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains.

 

My Impressions:

I was looking for a spooky read for October and I got more than I bargained for in Billy Coffey’s latest novel, The Curse of Crow Hollow. It is indeed a spooky and chill-inducing read, but it is so much more. With its Southern gothic style, its impeccable characterization and Billy’s trademark story-telling, this is a book that will do more than give you the creeps. It’s going to make you think and continue to think long after the last word is shared.

Crow Hollow, Virginia is a small town on the way out. Not many are left in the Hollow — jobs are scarce and its back-woods atmosphere is not likely to attract people or industry. It does have a close-knit community full of gossip, resentment and past sins. And there is a witch on the mountain that overlooks the town. This town is trouble just waiting to happen.

The Curse of Crow Hollow has a first person narrator who is not identified until the end of the book. He is down-home friendly and candid in his description of his fellow citizens. He describes to a visitor what has led up to the current state of the town — burned down buildings and few remaining residents. It’s a ghost story of sorts that begins when four teenagers tangle with the witch and unleash the curse on the whole town. As the story unfolds, the reader is made aware of hidden sins and secrets, deals struck and promises broken. Jealousy and prejudice abounds, though no one wants to acknowledge it, let alone confront it. The whole persona of the town and its people is a mask hiding the ugliness of those determined to go their own way. The town has embraced its isolation from the outside world and from God, although they would never admit that. The curse that takes hold of the town is of their own making, and the evil that has taken hold is not likely to let go any time soon. A few townspeople are determined to make a change and in the end, the reader knows the fight continues, and a sliver of hope remains. The Curse of Crow Hollow is definitely fiction, but completely on the mark for the hypocrisy of a religion without true faith and lives full of sin without repentance. It is riveting and soul-convicting.

I listened to the audiobook version and have to say, if possible, that is the way to read this book. The voice of the narrator is perfect. The last few words spoken made chills run down my spine for quite a long time. Just don’t listen to or read this one after dark, unless you have a very powerful lamp! 😉

Very Highly Recommended.

Audience: adults

Great for Book Clubs.

To purchase this book, click HERE.

(I purchased the audiobook from Audible. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

 

Do you like scary books? Why or why not?

 

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Book Review: The Hardest Thing to Do

22 Oct

UnknownThe Hardest Thing to Do starts one year after the end of the third book, The Long Fall, in the early fourteenth century. The peaceful monastery of St Alcuin’s is adjusting to its new abbot, who is taking the place of Father Peregrine, when an old enemy arrives seeking refuge. Reluctantly taking in Prior William, the upended community must address old fears and bitterness while warily seeking reconciliation. But can they really trust Prior William?

 

 

61vwghocnul-_ux250_Penelope (Pen) Wilcock is the author of over a dozen books of fiction and poetry, including The Hawk and the Dove trilogy. She lives a quiet life on the southeast coast of England with her husband and is the mother of five adult daughters. She has many years of experience as a Methodist minister and has worked as a hospice and school chaplain.

 

My Impressions:

Each successive book that I read in Penelope Wilcock’s series, The Hawk And The Dove, is my favorite. The quiet, yet powerful books that detail 14th century monastic life are truly treasures. In the fourth book of the series, The Hardest Thing to Do, the community is turned on its head when a hated and hateful Augustinian prior arrives seeking sanctuary. The brothers find that often the hardest thing to do is the most critical.

The community of St. Alcuin is in a transition period. As they enter the Lenten season, they await the return of Brother John, the former infirmarian who will take over as abbott. Winter still has a hold over northern England, but the promise of Spring is a whisper of hope to their souls. The deprivation and denial of Lent also brings forth spiritual fruit and growth. Abbott John is soon tested in his new obedience when faced with the turmoil that erupts following Father William’s arrival.

The phrase the hardest thing to do is repeated throughout this book. The monks face it when trying to live in peace in a community with diverse attitudes and temperaments. They find it in mundane activities as well as in the spiritual realm. There is an underlying theme of forgiveness and mercy that is well-suited to the season of Lent and the monk’s preparations for the Easter feast. I love how Wilcock takes the unfamiliar lives of 14th century monks and makes them relevant for modern day believers. The book reinforces the message of community in Scripture — the truth that we are of one body and every member is important no matter his role. I also liked that forgiveness is depicted in a realistic way —  a hard thing for those who must give it as well as for those who receive. Beloved characters from previous books make an appearance as well as new who add to the diversity and vitality of the monastery of St. Alcuin.

It is not necessary to have read the first 3 books in the series to enjoy The Hardest Thing to Do, but I would recommend that you do. The series is wonderful; you need the full experience. You can check out my reviews of the first 3 books HERE.

Highly Recommended.

Audience: adults.

To purchase this book, click HERE.

(Thanks to Kregel and Lion Hudson for a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

 

It’s hard to forgive when you’ve been wronged, even more when the wrong is against someone you love. What are your thoughts on the “hard thing” of forgiveness?

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Children’s Corner: Peter’s Perfect Prayer Place

21 Oct

51hB0GsbE3L._SX362_BO1,204,203,200_Can you help Peter find the perfect place to pray?

Peter is used to seeing his mom pray in her special prayer room, and now you can help him search for his own place to pray—Peter’s perfect prayer place. Is it under his bed? Up in his treehouse? Between the pots and pans? Where can God hear him best? There’s lots of fun as Peter looks and looks, but in the end, he learns that although it’s great to have a special place to be alone with God and pray, God hears you no matter where you are—under, up, or in between!

This companion book to the movie War Room will teach young readers an important lesson about talking to God. And the fold-out prayer chart and stickers in the back of the book will let them track their prayers as well as God’s answers!

 

stephen alex charlotte_0Kendrick Brothers Productions is the company founded by Alex and Stephen Kendrick that exists to honor Jesus Christ and make His truth and love known among the nations through movies, books, curriculum, and speaking. By prayerfully blending engaging stories with doctrinal integrity, the Kendricks seek to encourage and inspire viewers and readers with resources that impact their spiritual lives and strengthen their families and personal relationships.

Daniel Fernández is an illustrator for children’s books. He is also art director and creative director. Born in Chile, he currently lives in Germany.

My Impressions:

The Kendrick brothers created a powerful movie in War Room. Seeking to spread the message of the power of prayer, they have ventured into several mediums including the children’s book Peter’s Perfect Prayer Place. With rhyming verse and detailed and colorful illustrations, this book emphasizes the need for prayer in even the smallest child. As he searches for just the perfect place to pray, Peter learns that he can talk to God anytime and anywhere. The book also offers resources for parents to teach their child the importance of prayer. Bible verses and discussion questions reinforce the message of the book, while activity pages and a poster to personalize prayer requests, complete with stickers, get kids motivated to begin and continue their own conversation with God. Children ages 3-8, along with their parents, will find this book both fun and educational.

Recommended.

Audience: children ages 3-8, with parental involvement.

To purchase this book, click HERE.

(Thanks to B&H Publishing for a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

 

Instilling the habit of prayer in children is important. Do you have a tip to get kids praying?

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Book Review: Murder at The Courthouse

20 Oct

UnknownAfter a few years as a police officer in Chicago, Michael Keane has no trouble relaxing into the far less stressful job of deputy sheriff in his small hometown. After all, nothing ever happens in Hidden Springs, Kentucky. Nothing, that is, until a dead body is discovered on the courthouse steps. Everyone in town is a little uneasy. Still, no one is terribly worried–after all the man was a stranger–until one of their own is murdered right on Main Street.

As Michael works to solve the case it seems that every nosy resident in town has a theory. When the sheriff insists Michael check out one of these harebrained theories, his surprising discovery sends him on a bewildering search for a mysterious killer that has him questioning everything he has ever believed about life in Hidden Springs.

 

 

AnnHGabhartAnn H. Gabhart caught the writing bug at the age of ten and has been writing ever since. She’s published over twenty-five books for both adults and young adults. Scent of Lilacs, her first inspirational novel, was chosen as a Top Ten Christian Fiction Book by Booklist magazine. Her first Shaker book, The Outsider, was a finalist for ECPA Christian Fiction Book of the Year and was a Top Pick by Romantic Times Book Review Magazine. Ann writes about Kentucky history and small town life.

Ann lives on a farm in Kentucky not far from where she was born. She and her husband have three children and nine grandchildren. Ann loves hiking on her farm with her grandkids and her dog, Oscar. See more about her books at http://www.annhgabhart.com.

 

My Impressions:

Ann Gabhart is known for her historical fiction, but in Murder at The Courthouse, she has ventured into the contemporary, cozy mystery genre. Set in a Kentucky town, this novel has all of the elements — small town setting with a Mayberry vibe, characters that know everyone else’s business and a dedicated sheriff’s deputy determined to find the truth, wherever it may be. The result is a down-home mystery with twists and turns.

Michael Keane has returned home to Hidden Springs after a stint as a big-city policeman. Content to write speeding tickets and follow-up on petty theft, he soon comes face to face with the unthinkable — a body on the Courthouse steps. With wild theories flying across the town, Michael investigates leads with a dogged determination and finds answers where no one wants to go.

Murder at The Courthouse, first book in the Hidden Springs Mystery series, was a bit of a slow go for me at first. There are lots of characters introduced with all their backstories. And while useful for this book and the sequels to come, I kept wanting the action to get going. Eventually the story sped up, and I found myself turning the pages. The characters were generally likable, even the pesky and persistent newspaper editor, and fit into the small town mold. The mystery was at first puzzling, but I figured out whodunit before the deputy did. I also found myself re-reading sentences to get the real meaning (there is a bit of a punctuation problem — not enough commas). All in all, I found it to be an okay read. A lot of reviewers on Amazon gave it 5 stars, so be sure to check out their comments.

Audience: adults. 

To purchase this book, click HERE.

(Thanks to Revell for a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

 

Are you a cozy mystery fan? What about this genre do you like the most?

 

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Road Trip Reads

19 Oct

My husband and I have found that listening to audiobooks makes the miles fly by in an otherwise boring trip. We are hooked on Agatha Christie‘s Hercule Poirot series and are slowly working our way through. The funny little man with the big mustaches and the egg-shaped head has become a big favorite with us. The past two weekends found us traveling to family events and a football game in Mississippi. Here are the three books that accompanied us:

UnknownIn the classic The Big Four, the great Poirot is caught up in a deadly game of international intrigue as he races to uncover the strange mystery of “Number Four.”

This novel was originally published as a series of short stories. The book develops through various cases brought before Poirot and Captain Hastings. They are always just one step behind the 4 masterminds of crime and conspiracy. This one combines the mystery and spy novel genres and was my husband’s favorite.

 

51eWhCRMNPL._SX306_BO1,204,203,200_Murder on the Orient Express. Just after midnight, a snowdrift stopped the Orient Express in its tracks. The luxurious train was surprisingly full for the time of the year. But by the morning there was one passenger fewer. An American lay dead in his compartment, stabbed a dozen times, his door locked from the inside.

With tension mounting, detective Hercule Poirot comes up with not one, but two solutions to the crime.

Poirot uses all of his detection skills in this novel. A fun whodunit in which everyone is suspect, but the means and motives are obscure. This one kept us guessing and puzzling.

UnknownIn the Christie classic Peril at End House, a young woman who has recently survived a series of very close calls appears to be the target of a dedicated killer—and it’s up to Hercule Poirot to save her life.

Poirot and Hastings are back together in this novel with a big twist at the end. We have grown quite fond of the detecting duo, although we are not sure just why Hastings puts up with Poirot. 😉

 

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Book Review: The Sea Keeper’s Daughters

16 Oct

Unknown-5From modern-day Roanoke Island to the sweeping backdrop of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains and Roosevelt’s WPA folklore writers, past and present intertwine to create an unexpected destiny.

Restaurant owner Whitney Monroe is desperate to save her business from a hostile takeover. The inheritance of a decaying Gilded Age hotel on North Carolina’s Outer Banks may provide just the ray of hope she needs. But things at the Excelsior are more complicated than they seem. Whitney’s estranged stepfather is entrenched on the third floor, and the downstairs tenants are determined to save the historic building. Searching through years of stored family heirlooms may be Whitney’s only hope of quick cash, but will the discovery of an old necklace and a Depression-era love story change everything?

 

wingatepubshot2015julybLMRSelected among Booklist’s Top 10 for two consecutive years, Lisa Wingate skillfully weaves lyrical writing and unforgettable settings with elements of traditional Southern storytelling, history, and mystery to create novels that Publisher’s Weekly calls “Masterful” and Library Journal refers to as “A good option for fans of Nicholas Sparks and Mary Alice Monroe.” Lisa is a journalist, an inspirational speaker, and the author of twenty-five novels. She is a seven-time ACFW Carol Award nominee, a multiple Christy Award nominee, a two- time Carol Award winner, and a 2015 RT Booklovers Magazine Reviewer’s Choice Award Winner for mystery/suspense. Recently, the group Americans for More Civility, a kindness watchdog organization, selected Lisa along with Bill Ford, Camille Cosby, and six others as recipients of the National Civies Award, which celebrates public figures who work to promote greater kindness and civility in American life. Booklist summed up her work by saying, “Lisa Wingate is, quite simply, a master storyteller.” More information about her novels can be found at http://www.lisawingate.com.

 

My Impressions:

When choosing a book for my book clubs, I look for a strong story line that encourages discussion, well-developed and complex characters that are easy to relate to, and a writing style that enhances the reading experience. Lisa Wingate has long been a favorite of By The Book, so it wasn’t a tough decision to pick her latest novel, The Sea Keeper’s Daughters. When we got the chance to host a visit with Lisa, that sealed the deal! Both of my book clubs are discussing it this month. Have you had a chance to read it yet? Let us know your thoughts.

Restaurant owner Whitney Benoit is in the struggle of her career trying to hold on to her dreams and provide for her partner and employees. The last thing she needs is to travel to the Outer Banks to check on her estranged step-father Clyde. But the chance of finally settling family concerns and shoring up her finances prompts the trip. What she finds is a personal history shrouded in legends and secrets, and a chance to stop running away and face her challenges.

The Sea Keeper’s Daughters is a complex novel with two story lines — one set in the Appalachian mountains during the Depression and the other set on modern day Roanoke Island in North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Both settings come to life through Lisa’s vivid descriptions. A dedication to thorough research is also evident as she explores the work of the Federal Writer’s Program, the culture of the mountains during the 1930s and the truth and legends surrounding the Melungeon people group. I found all the characters interesting, but Whitney is by far my favorite. Lisa takes her through emotional highs and lows and brings her out stronger emotionally and spiritually. Most of the story is told through Whitney’s first person perspective, however, the historical aspects are recounted through newly discovered letters from Alice, a great-aunt Whitney knew nothing about. The use of this device allowed the characters and the readers to place themselves into Alice’s story — I loved that! The twists and turns of Alice and Whitney’s lives, and the intersection of both stories kept me turning the pages. There is much to discuss in The Sea Keeper’s Daughters — relationships, security-issues, God’s plans versus ours — and I anticipate some great conversations with both my book clubs.

The Sea Keeper’s Daughters is part of Lisa’s Carolina Heirlooms series, but can be read as a standalone novel. However, I found the characters and story lines from the previous books that are subtly woven throughout added greatly to my reading experience. Just go ahead and get the other books. You know want to!

Highly Recommended.

Audience: adults

Great for Book Clubs.

To purchase this book, click HERE. 

(I purchased this book for my Kindle. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

 

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Book Review: The Splendor of Ordinary Days

14 Oct

51ugY0ljHdL._SX333_BO1,204,203,200_The pastoral charm of small-town Watervalley, Tennesse, can be deceptive, as young Dr. Luke Bradford discovers when he’s caught in the fallout of a decades-old conflict . . . 

After a rocky start as Watervalley’s only doctor, Luke Bradford has decided to stay in town, honoring the three-year commitment he made to pay off his medical school debts. But even as his friendships with the quirky townsfolk deepen, and he pursues a romance with lovely schoolteacher Christine Chambers, several military veterans’ emotional wounds trigger anger and unrest in Watervalley.

At the center of the clash is the curmudgeonly publisher of the local newspaper, Luther Whitmore. Luther grew up in Watervalley, but he returned from combat in Vietnam a changed man. He fenced in beautiful Moon Lake, posting “Keep Out” notices at the beloved spot, and provokes the townspeople with his incendiary newspaper.

As Luke struggles to understand Luther’s past, and restore harmony in Watervalley, an unforeseen crisis shatters a relationship he values dearly. Suddenly Luke must answer life’s toughest questions about service, courage, love, and sacrifice.

41z++Pnv3nL._UX250_After growing up in rural Tennessee, Jeff High attained degrees in literature and nursing. He is a three time winner, in poetry and fiction, of an annual writing contest held by Vanderbilt Medical Center. He lived in Nashville for many years, and throughout the country as a travel nurse, before returning to his original hometown, near where he now works as an operating room RN in cardiac surgery.

 

My Impressions:

The Splendor of Ordinary Days is reminiscent of Jan Karon’s Mitford series with its rural Tennessee setting and slightly quirky characters. Yet this third book in the Watervalley series has a bit of an edge to it — characters face complex challenges and troubles. Told through the first person voice of outsider and town doctor, Luke Bradford, Jeff High’s novel is a good pick for those looking for a small town getaway with heart.

Luke Bradford has settled into his role as the only doctor in the rural community of Watervalley. Although his dreams of becoming a researcher have been put on the back burner, his relationships with townspeople and his girlfriend have become an important part of his life. Old and new friends have come to make Watervalley feel like home.

Small town life is at the center of The Splendor of Ordinary Days. Although part of a series, I found this novel easy to get into. Life is real in Watervalley and many of its citizens struggle with past hurts and resentments. Characters deal with PTSD, alcoholism, and infertility. I particularly liked that the author built much of the story around the challenges of our nation’s veterans — past and present. For those who choose only books from the Christian genre, this book may not be for you. There is mild profanity throughout and no central spiritual message. But if you are looking for a well-written novel dealing with the realities of life in a small town setting, check this one out.

Audience: adults.

To purchase this book, click HERE.

(Thanks to the author and LitFuse for a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

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Book Review: Darkness Rising

13 Oct

51CeSyzf2+L._SX326_BO1,204,203,200_The evil in East Salem is no longer content to hide in the shadows. The stakes ― and the darkness ― are rising.

Dani Harris thought there wasn’t much left that could surprise her after serving as a forensic psychiatrist in East Salem. And Tommy Gunderson has faced few challenges in his life that he couldn’t overcome by either physical strength or his celebrity status.

But as they race to uncover what’s really happening behind the high walls of St. Adrian’s Academy, it becomes clear that supernatural forces have been at work here for generations. And now their focus is on making sure Dani and Tommy don’t interfere.

When the unseen becomes seen, faith is the only weapon strong enough to fight in a battle involving not just murder and betrayal ― but angels and demons.

 

logoLis Wiehl is one of the nation’s most prominent trial lawyers and highly regarded commentators. Currently, she is the legal analyst and reporter on the Fox News Channel and Bill O’Reilly’s sparring partner in the weekly “Is It Legal?” segment on The O’Reilly Factor. Prior to that she was O’Reilly’s co-host on the nationally syndicated show The Radio Factor. She is also a Professor of Law at New York Law School. Her column “Lis on Law” appears weekly on FoxNews.com.

Prior to joining Fox News Channel in New York City, Wiehl served as a legal analyst and reporter for NBC News and NPR’s All Things Considered. Before that, Wiehl served as a Federal Prosecutor in the United States Attorney’s office.

Wiehl earned her Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School and her Master of Arts in Literature from the University of Queensland.

Wiehl is also the author of The 51% Minority, which won the 2008 award for Books for a Better Life in the motivational category, and Winning Every Time.

She lives with her husband and two children in New York.

fea4e03ae7a06dbcacda3210-l-_v192614257_sx200_Pete Nelson lives with his wife and son in Westchester, New York. He got his MFA from the University of Iowa Writers’ Workshop in 1979 and has written both fiction and non-fiction for magazines, including Harpers, Esquire, MS, Outside, The Iowa Review, National Wildlife, Glamour, Redbook. He was a columnist for Mademoiselle and a staff writer for LIVE Magazine, covering various live events including horse pulls, music festivals, dog shows, accordion camps and arm wrestling championships. Recently he was a contributing editor and feature writer for Wondertime, a Disney parenting magazine.

 

My Impressions:

Darkness Rising is book 2 in Lis Wiehl and Pete Nelson’s East Salem series. The action begins where Waking Hours left off (my review HERE). Filled with demons, this supernatural thriller definitely registers high on the creepy meter. If you like scary this one is for you. If not, I’d give it a pass.

Dani Harris, a forensic psychiatrist, and Tommy Gunderson, ex-football player turned PI, continue to investigate the bizarre murder that has rocked the quaint town of East Salem, New York. Evidence mounts up implicating the local academy that prides itself on teaching future leaders. As Dani and Tommy get closer to the truth, the action ramps up, including demonic activity that is determined not to be stopped.

Darkness Rising features new and returning characters. The bad guys are not well-developed, but Wiehl and Nelson make sure the good guys’ emotions, motivations and background are explored. The emphasis of the novel is the struggle of good and evil and uses an interesting framework to portray the ancient battle. Demons, as well as angels, play a major role, and the book does not shy away from the violence of the battle. The theme of Christ’s redemptive work is portrayed along with God’s plan and purposes in His people’s lives. Even as the demons work to separate Dani and Tommy, God turns those efforts to work out His plan.  I did have one problem though. A character who is a believer becomes demon-possessed. This is contrary to my understanding of scripture. I believe in demonic attack and oppression, but never possession in a believer. 1 John 4:4 states — But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world (NLT). *For this reason I would not recommend this book to non-believers.

Darkness Rising ends with a battle won, but the war is definitely not over. The characters are united and committed to uncover truth and expose evil, but it will be a daunting task. I look forward to the conclusion of this series.

*Recommended. (Please see note above.)

Audience: adults.

To purchase this book, click HERE.

(Thanks to Thomas Nelson for a copy of this book. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

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Book Review: Love’s A Stage

9 Oct

Unknown-2Grad student and future marriage counselor Aly Brewster had a perfect childhood with perfect parents. Now she’s heading into her own perfect life: Finish her Master’s. Build a successful practice. Husband at twenty-six. But when her parents blindside her with the news they’re getting divorced, her perfect world shatters.

Actor Nick Armstrong has been in love with Aly since they met during freshman year. He’s happy to accept his assigned place in her Friend Zone because it lets him be close to her. But it’s been over five years — time to move on. Then the usually-unflappable Aly comes to him begging for help to save her parents’ marriage. Nick has the perfect plan: fake an engagement to each other to inspire her parents to fight to save their marriage. And who knows? It might trigger Aly’s feelings for him. But when Aly takes the ruse to the next level — planning a wedding in her parents’ backyard and hiring additional actors to play his family — enough is enough!

As the lines between acting and reality grow decidedly blurred, these two improvised fiancés must decide: are they going to finish the play . . . or exit stage right. Alone.

 

Rene-Gutteridge-low-res-2Rene Gutteridge is the author of over 25 books and has been writing professionally for almost two decades. Her writing ranges from comedy to suspense and from freelance writing to novels to screenplays. Her first feature film, SKID, is due out next year. Her latest two fiction projects are collaborations with screenwriter Cheryl McKay and are romantic comedies.

Cheryl-McKay-lower-resCheryl McKay began writing stories and plays at five years old based on pictures on her lunchboxes. She’s been writing since. Both a screenwriter and author of non-fiction and fiction books, her most notable film to date is The Ultimate Gift (James Garner, Abigail Breslin). Cheryl’s favorite genres are family dramas and romantic comedies. One of Cheryl’s favorite writing alliances is with Rene Gutteridge. The two partner on novelizations of Cheryl’s screenplays. (Never the Bride for Random House, Greetings from the Flipside for B&H.) Cheryl and her husband live in Los Angeles. She’s avid scrapbooker, day-tripper, and chocolate addict.

 

My Impressions:

Love’s A Stage is a light, romantic comedy with a bit of slapstick thrown in from the writing duo of Rene Gutteridge and Cheryl McKay. The setting is Massachusetts in the fall, complete with a Pilgrim-themed wedding (yes, that’s right, a Pilgrim wedding) and will get your Autumn romance reading off to a good start. The characters are likable — Aly is idealistic, Nick is devoted and the assortment of secondary characters range from loyal to clueless. But it is the underlying message that a marriage takes real work that resonated with this reader. As Aly and Nick planned their fake wedding to reunite Aly’s parents, it is apparent that for a real marriage to work, a couple needs to keep their eyes on the husband/wife relationship. A happily-ever-after follows near disaster that will have you chuckling. A quick read, Love’s A Stage is fun reading.

Recommended for fans of light romantic comedy.

Audience: adults.

To purchase this book, click HERE.

(Thanks to Redbud Press for a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

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