Tag: Book Reviews

Until the Dawn | Book Review

Published on by Amanda TeroLeave a comment
A mysterious old mansion. The family who returned to claim it. And the girl who refused to be kicked out of her haven.
I was swept into Sophie’s tale immediately. She was a sweet and kind heroine (perhaps a little too perfect). Her part in Dierenpark was believable and unforced. It seemed natural the reasons she was allowed to stay. And then there’s Quentin. He was a very interesting character whose progression from cynical to kind seemed fluent. From an analytic standpoint, his character was my favorite, being the most mysterious and complex yet well developed. Oh and Peiter. The story would be much less without him!
The plot was super intriguing. My mind was spinning as the story of the Vandermarks took so many twists and turns. I honestly couldn’t guess what would happen in the end, as far as the family history went (the lives of the people in the “current” story–that was a little more predictable). Reading the book was like watching a mystery unfold satisfactorily. As far as writing quality, the author’s ability to snag my interest, and flow of the story, I give a definite 5 stars.
There were a few things that bumped this book down to a personal rating of 3.5 stars:
-The dialogue did not seem accurate to the time frame. As I was reading the story, I had to remind myself that this was the 17th century because it just didn’t “feel” that era.
-The spiritual plot seemed weak. The salvation message was not very clear (though it did show a person turning to follow God, it was more of a groping towards). Though Sophie was all sweetness and kindness, I would have personally preferred if it was mentioned that the only way one could be sweet and kind is because of Jesus Christ. Instead, there was more of a Pollyanna type emphasis on “everyone has some good in them.” It is commendable that she takes council of her pastor, but I’m afraid that kissing and developing an emotional attachment to a man who is still see-sawing on atheism is a little shallow. And one character used the Lord’s Name in a way that I would consider vain (he used it in an exclamation of surprise).
There were a few quotes I liked, but I didn’t take the time to jot them all down. Here is one though:

“I don’t think God dwells on when we fall down. I’d like to think he is more interested in helping us get back up again.”

*NetGalley provided me a copy to review with my personal opinions*

The Daughters of Jim Farrell | Book Review

Published on by Amanda TeroLeave a comment

DaughtersFrontCoverFinal“How do I know I can trust you?”
Joshua Adams glanced at his razor case. “I think the better question is, how do I know that I can trust you?”

Living in the shadow of her father’s assumed shame, Kate hires a detective from Pinkerton to clear the murder of which her father was accused. She has persuade her sisters to agree, but as Mr. Adams searches and digs up information around town, will it tear the family apart? Above that, will each of the girls be able to solve their own, very different struggles?

Let’s just say that in less than a week, this book was read by myself, one of my sisters, and my mom, and we all loved it. Ms. Bambola chose a very unique setting and researched it well. I could easily see how things ran in the coal mines and the prejudices of the richer society. In a way, it made me think of Elizabeth Gaskell’s “North and South.” I personally liked how Ms. Bambola portrayed the girls learning how all people are on the same level in God’s eyes, though they may be on different levels socially.

I also enjoyed the very different (and likeable) personalities of Kate, Virginia, and Charlotte. I was interested in each of them and the choices they would make. This book definitely mentions God and seeking Him, but I didn’t find the message quite as strong as I would prefer. However, it is a very clean book.

Younger readers might want to know: there are mentions of prostitutes, but nothing is gone into detail. There are several kisses in the book and characters fall in love; I found it more mentioned than detailed, emotions and feelings were not the foundation of the story.

Disclosure of Material: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through the BookCrash.com book review program, which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

About Sylvia
Buy on Amazon

Trim Healthy Mama Plan | Book Review

Published on by Amanda TeroLeave a comment
This book is not meant to be read straight through, but little-by-little as the reader experiments with what they are learning. Since I was already familiar with how THM works, I did read it straight through. Pearl and Serene have a very easy-going style that doesn’t make one feel pressured to follow their plan to a “T” however the book feels very educational, with learning how your body processes different food types. 

The main gist behind THM is eating fats and carbs separately, giving your body focused energy to burn what it is receiving without storing it in fat cells. They explain what foods are acceptable for what food group, and warn against starving your body trying to diet.

In reading this book, I did not feel the sudden urge to jump into their meal plans…but it did give me a better knowledge and awareness of the food and food types I eat on a daily basis.

IMPORTANT NOTE: this is NOT the cookbook. The cookbook is sold separately and is referred to frequently in the Plan book.

*I received this book from Blogging for Books for my review.*

Visit THM’s FaceBook, Twitter, 


The Golden Braid | Book Review

Published on by Amanda Tero2 Comments

This was my first Melanie Dickerson book to try, after having heard of several friends reading her. The story leaned towards your typical beautiful girl/handsome guy duo who started out despising each other then discovered they loved each other.

What I liked – this was probably the first Rapunzel story I have read. I knew the basic plot line but it was neat to see how Dickerson made it her own story. I greatly appreciated that there was no magic in the book, though there was one part when Gerek was praying and the crucifix glowed as he sensed his answer. It was briefly mentioned. The medieval flare and descriptions were well done. I think one of my favorite parts was the description of the castle life. It was definitely a book in which the characters prayed to God and sought His direction. Though the denomination was Roman Catholic (which is historically accurate), I did like the Christian emphasis and lessons discussed.

What I didn’t care for – the main thing that bothered me was towards the end, when a man and woman spent days and nights traveling alone together. This put them in situations that could have been sinful but instead, they both had the strong will to abstain. While it was honorable to read about, I personally think it could be dangerous for girls to read about it then excuse their behavior and be led into temptation.

What younger readers may need to know – I would say that one of the strongest themes in the book was a distrust for men, the fear that they would use a woman then leave her. Nothing was vulgar, but it is discussed throughout almost the entire book.

A quote that stood out to me –
“And if I loved my husband as I said I did, then I needed to comfort him. That is when I began to understand that he was only a man—a very good man who loved me, but a man nevertheless. He was not God. So I stopped trying to make him the god of my life, expecting him to bring me healing, and started expecting perfect love and satisfaction from God alone.”

*I received this book for my honest review from BookLook Bloggers*

What is your favorite medieval story?

Kate’s Innocence | Book Review and Giveaway

Published on by Amanda Tero2 Comments

Once again, I’m happy to be a part of a fellow-author’s blog tour! I have read a few of Sarah’s books and enjoyed her new release, Kate’s Innocence.

ABOUT THE BOOK

What would you do if you were accused of a crime you didn’t commit?

Kate watched as her campus was torn apart by bombs and now is being accused of perpetrating the crime. As the evidence quickly stacks up against her, she begins to lose hope that the truth will come to light. Even though the handsome FBI Agent, Patrick, has taken up her cause, will they be able to prove her innocence? Will God, who she neglected for so long, listen to her prayers for help?

Patrick is an agent with a very special team of agents. He wants to help Kate prove she is innocent, but as each new piece of evidence is revealed, that goal seems harder. He wonders why he feels so compelled to help her and so sure she is innocent despite the evidence. Will he be willing to put his job on the line to help her? Can he trust in God to make sure the truth will come out in the end?

A brilliant college student who claims her project was to disarm bombs is now prime suspect for her college’s bombing. Kate Mayfield finds herself in a sticky situation as she strives to prove her innocence with the FBI team who is investigating her. As evidence stacks up against her, can she prove her innocence? Will anyone believe in her?

Kate was a very unique MC–one that I honestly wasn’t sure that I would like: A military kid turned soldier herself then brilliant college student and primary suspect with sass. As the story progressed, though, I got to enjoy Kate, then became attached to her. Since I read this story over a period of days (by schedule demands–not choice!), my thoughts often drifted to Kate and where I had last left her. This being the first book in the series, it gave a hint of how the trials she was facing led Kate to consider her relationship with God and how much she had neglected Him. I am interested in seeing how this spiritual plot progresses in upcoming books.

And then there’s Patrick–about half of the story told from his perspective. He seemed a little bit “too good to be true” of a guy MC yet is a character that the reader is supposed to love.

The other agents on the FBI team were fun as well and all like-able in their different ways. I’ll admit, I fell in love with all of them!

Though mystery in subject, this book was not suspenseful nor did it have any dark scenes (in my opinion). The only thing that would keep me from handing it to a young teen would be if they got scared about the thought of people hiding behind doors and in rooms to threaten them.

About romance…two hugs were mentioned, but nothing super romantic. One, the young man was encouraging Kate. The other, was a little more about their feelings for each other. I’m guessing there will be more romance between the two as the series progresses, but there is not much in this first book.

I will definitely be in line for reading future books in this series!

*I received a copy of this book from the author for my honest review*


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sarah Holman


Sarah Holman is a not so typical mid-twenties girl: A homeschool graduate, sister to six awesome siblings, and author of three published books and counting. If there is anything adventuresome about her life, it is because she serves a God with a destiny bigger than anything she could have imagined.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Forgiven | Book Review

Published on by Amanda TeroLeave a comment

 ABOUT
Cover ArtAfter a son does the unthinkable, how can a mother go on?

On October 2, 2006, a gunman entered an Amish one-room schoolhouse, shooting ten girls, killing five, then finally taking his own life. This is his mother’s story. Not only did she lose her precious son through suicide, but she also lost her understanding of him as an honorable man. It was a trauma that none should ever have to face.

But the biggest headlines came when her Amish neighbors did the unimaginable, reaching out to the family of the shooter with comfort and forgiveness. Today Terri lives in harmony with the Amish and has built lasting relationships beyond what anyone could have thought possible. From the grace that the Amish showed Terri’s family from day one, to the visits and ongoing care Terri has given to the victims and their families, no one could have foreseen the love and friendship that have been forged from the fires of tragedy.

MY REVIEW

This is an amazingly heart-wrenching story! While I heartily agree with the message of forgiveness, I realize not everyone would be able to read this book because of the difficulty of the situation. I did not find any details to be too descriptive, but (me not being a crier), I fought tears for most of the book.

“Forgiven” takes you not only to the journey of Mrs. Roberts after “The Happening,” but she reflects back to life how it was. It goes back and forth between past and present events. In no way does she try to diminish the choice of her son but makes it very clear his choices were a result of his bitterness towards God. Wow.

It was amazing to read how the Amish and Roberts families reached out to each other and bonded together through the love of Christ. Though I do not agree with the doctrine of their churches, what stood out was Christ and His forgiveness–His enabling to forgive. I loved her reminiscence of visiting the Amish the year after “The Happening.” No words can describe how awesome it was!

You cannot read the stories of these Amish children without being touched. As I linked the Amish girls’ ages to those of my younger sisters, this story took on a deeper meaning for me. And Roseanna…wow! You just have to read the book to get acquainted with her and her family.

~~~
*I received this book from Bethany House Blogger Reviewers for my honest review*

QUOTES

“His losses were no greater than those countless human beings have experienced…But according to his letters, he’d allowed bitterness and hatred against God to build up inside him.”


“‘The journey begins with you making the choice to do that [forgive].’ He wasn’t suggesting that forgiveness is easy. It’s still a process.”


“Yes, I was a survivor. But I learned that day that it is not enough simply to survive the storms. It is in surrender that true peace and healing are found.”

A Moment of Weakness | Book Review

Published on by Amanda TeroLeave a comment

Honestly, this is a tough book to review because…I didn’t read it. I received it for my honest review (from Blogging for Books) and then Mom got around to reading it before I did, and told me that I wouldn’t want to read it based on the very descriptive bedroom scene (or the thoughts and temptations they had). And based off that review, I decided that nope, I wouldn’t try it. For which I was somewhat disappointed, because I really enjoyed the first book in this series, in which there was practically no romance and no romantic thoughts and feelings described.

ABOUT

Had they found each other again after all these years, only to lose everything that matters most?

As children, Jade Conner and Tanner Eastman were best friends—until scandal drove them apart. Then, one golden summer, they find each other again. Through endless days they share their hearts and souls and dreams of forever. Then, in a moment of weakness, they make a decision that will tear them apart for nearly a decade.

In their own separate corners of the country, Jade and Tanner have become fighters for religious freedom. Now Jade’s unfaithful husband is determined to destroy her in a custody battle that will rock the nation and shake people’s understanding of faith and freedom. Could Jade lose her only child because of her faith? Only one man can help her in her darkest hour. And only one old woman knows the secret about that summer and the truth that can set them all free.

ABOUT KAREN KINGSBURY

KAREN KINGSBURY is a USA Today and New York Times best-selling author, with nearly twenty million books in print. Dubbed the “Queen of Christian Fiction” by Time magazine, Karen has written more than forty Life-Changing Drama, which encompasses the Redemption, Firstborn, and Sunrise series, as well… More about Karen Kingsbury

In Paths of Righteousness | Review and Giveaway!

Published on by Amanda Tero13 Comments
Author Keri Aeschlimann graciously sent me a copy of her book, In Paths of Righteousness. But better than that, she also offered to have me host a giveaway of her book! How exciting is that? I enjoyed reading In Paths of Righteousness and think it’d be a great book to add to your shelf. As for details…
ABOUT THE BOOK

David Riley is a typical, hard-working farm boy of the late 1800s, growing up in a Midwest community where religion was a tradition that none dared to challenge. He and his friend Jill set out to explore the “Old Man’s Path,” to uncover the mystery of an old wives’ tale, and it turns into more of an adventure than they bargained for. When they discover long-held secrets in the town of Detweiler, David is determined to find the truth—regardless of the cost. As he faces opposition in his search for the truth, David also finds a battle waging within. He and his friends struggle to be kind to Henry, a cruel bully, and his mother, a widow bitter toward God. But as his hatred for Henry grows, so does the darkness in his own heart.
With an emptiness that threatens to consume him, David despairs of ever pleasing God. When all prospects of finding peace appear lost, he meets a strange old recluse, thought to be long dead, who offers him both friendship and hope. David discovers something in common with the mysterious stranger—but what binds them together threatens to tear his family and community apart. Will he have the courage and determination to stand for what is right? Facing rejection in the greatest decision of his life, David must choose which path to follow: a religious tradition to live by or a faith to die for. 288 pages. Soft cover.


MY REVIEW
When I read David’s proud exclamation, “Real men are Christians and Christians don’t fight. And I’m a Christian!” I knew there was something coming for him. In Paths of Righteousness follows David’s life as a sixteen-year-old, searching for truth–questioning as to whether or not he is indeed a Christian–whether or not he could be righteous enough on his own. One quote sums up his struggle: “He was trying harder than ever to please God, but the more he did and the harder he tried, the greater the emptiness inside him became.”

David’s search for spiritual truth paralleled with his search for the truth about a mysterious man and tales that had been spread about him. I wish that the tales of the mysterious man were sooner introduced and more deeply developed before David stumbled into solving this mystery, but it did hold my interest as written. 

There was definitely tension as David questioned the teachings of his church (which were based in man’s ability to keep the law rather than trust in Jesus for salvation) and, in turn, had confrontations with his parents.

While written in a style that seems geared towards younger teens, I personally recommend this book to those sixteen and above because of the many discussions (which could pose confusion to younger believers) as well as a scene in which one character, in delirium, “saw” hell and its terrors then heaven and its beauty. 

I found the spiritual plot of this book very strong and interesting (chapter seventeen was probably my favorite!). Keri summed up well the terror and confusion of a young man who strove with learning truth and pushed forward his journey to answers well. Though the writing style was somewhat amateur, I really enjoyed the book and am looking forward to a possible sequel!

*I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.* 

TO BUY
ABOUT KERI
Keri lives in the Midwest with her family. “In Paths of Righteousness” is her first novel–she is currently working on its sequel. Find her on Goodreads, FaceBook, and her Blog.












GIVEAWAY TIME!!

The Sound of Silver | Book Release

Published on by Amanda Tero2 Comments
Here we are again with a new release! The Sound of Silver is the sequel to The Sound of Diamonds, by Rachelle Rea. I have read both in the past month–you can see my review of Diamonds here. But today we’re focusing on Silver… I have to say, I love the covers for the Steadfast Love series! They rank pretty close to the top of my favorite book covers out there!

BACK COVER
The stalwart saint and the redeemed rebel. One is fighting for faith, the other for honor…

After Dirk rescues Gwyneth from the Iconoclastic Fury, she discovers that faith is sometimes fragile—and hope is not as easy as it may seem. Gwyneth continues her quest to learn more about the love of God preached by Protestants she once distrusted.

Meanwhile, Dirk’s quest is to prevent his sullied name from staining hers. Will his choice to protect her prove the undoing of her first faltering steps toward a Father God? Once separated, will Dirk and Gwyneth’s searching hearts ever sing the same song?

MY REVIEW
Thankfully, “Silver” began right where “Diamonds” left off. Though not as much excitement was induced as “Diamonds” (not as much action). I felt a little more emphasis on romance (again, kisses, hugs, feelings, but nothing more) than I cared for but there was still a very strong message. Of surrender. Of trust. Of truth.

Rohesia’s wisdom was beautiful. I loved her conversation with Gwyn.

I did NOT like the ending!! 😉 Book three has some very important things to resolve (and better come quickly! :)).
*I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*

QUOTES

“Faith cannot be bartered or shoved or forced.”

“I was waiting for what I thought was the better thing. And God gave me what was truly best.”

What good did it do to have figuratively sat at the feet of scholars when I knew little about sitting at the feet of the Lord as Rohesia said Jesus’ followers had literally done?

I tilted my head back, reminding myself he was my friend, and friends do not break friends’ noses.

Her smile deepened yet again. “What else are mothers for?” Touching her shoulder, I said, “Praying.”

TO BUY
Barnes & Noble: coming Oct. 15
Amazon Paperback: http://is.gd/oGcgO2
Books a Million: coming Oct. 15

COMING SOON!
This week is the cover reveal for the third book in the Steadfast Love series. Like I said, I love her covers so of course I’ll share a glimpse! 🙂

ABOUT RACHELLE

Rachelle Rea plots her novels while driving around the little town she’s lived in all her life in her dream car, a pick-up truck. As a freelance editor, she enjoys mentoring fellow authors in the craft. A homeschool graduate and retired gymnast, she wrote the Sound of Silver the summer after her junior year of college.

Instagram: @RachelleDianeRea

Waiting for Morning | Book Review

Published on by Amanda Tero2 Comments
“I think that’s why God’s so good to me,” Hannah had smiled pleasantly. “He knows I’m not good at forgiving.”
That was Hannah’s childhood thought. Little did she know that the biggest trial of her life would occur when she was happily married with two daughters in their teens. Little did she know that the forgiveness she had briefly mentioned as a child, the anger she struggled with then, would blindside her in full force.
I finished this book with a “wow.” I admire Karen Kingsbury for tackling hard issues like drunk driving, suicide, anger, and bitterness–and balancing them with the truths of God’s Word. Her writing is well-researched and detailed. It is realistic–painfully realistic. I could easily envision real lives placed in the shoes of Hannah, Jenny, Carol, Matt, and Bryan.
At first, the multiple viewpoint changes were confusing, but as I got to know the characters, I looked forward to reading their different perspectives.
Hannah’s story…it was amazing to read how she fought against all of the hymns and verses brought to mind. It hurt to read her bitter and angry progression–yet a good illustration of how it can overtake a person. She sought to find peace in the revenge of Mr. Wesley…yet instead found herself being shackled with bitterness. Her fight against forgiveness rang too true–but so did God’s persistent reminder of Scripture and His promises. Oh my goodness! Hannah’s restoration to the mercy of God was so beautiful!! There is no other word for it and the beauty is that the restoration is Biblically true.
Jenny’s story…though not as detailed as Hannah’s story, I loved Jenny and my heart cried out for her, a girl struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts while her mom was busy fighting what she thought was the most important battle.
Bryan’s story…I’ll admit, I was so happy the way Bryan’s story turned out! How beautiful to see him using Scripture to combat his thirst for beer!
For those who are conscious of these things, there is a mention of drunk man seeing demons as well as mentions of unmarried couples living together. Nothing in detail though. There is a suicidal attempt with a bit of detail. Because of these things, I would personally recommend this book to readers twenty and above.
A couple of favorite quotes:
When Hannah finally prayed again: “Rather she had simply reached the end of herself, of everything she knew about coping.”
“She had suffered much this past year, but it had been worse because she had exchanged the truth about God for a lie.”

*I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.*
About the Author
Karen Kingsbury is a USA Today and New York Times best-selling author, with nearly twenty million books in print. Dubbed the “Queen of Christian Fiction” by Time magazine, Karen has written more than forty Life-Changing Drama, which encompasses the Redemption, Firstborn, and Sunrise series, as well as stand-alone novels such as Like Dandelion Dust, When Joy Came to Stay and This Side of Heaven. Karen and her husband, Don, live in the Pacific Northwest and are parents to six children, including three adopted from Haiti. Visit her website at http://www.KarenKingsbury.com.