On My Nightstand - In the Field of Grace by Tessa Afshar

I've had this book on my To Be Read pile for a long time. Somehow it got buried. When I finally picked it up last week, it took me on a journey that every reader's heart desires.

From the first few words, I was captivated. The author tells the story of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz in a way that makes them come alive. If you've ever been to Sight and Sound theaters and seen one their productions, this story is given similar treatment. It shows what living in those days was like, as well as the possible emotions experienced by each person.

Ruth and Naomi were real women, who faced incredible hardships. Losing their loved ones in Moab, traveling dangerous paths to Bethlehem, and arriving there with little but the clothes on their backs, they trusted God to take care of them.

They experienced horrific grief and came through it. Some of the things they learned resonated with me and others gave me new insight. For anyone battered by life situations, there's great comfort in this book.

I've plodded through many genealogies in the Bible, but by the time I got to the one in this book, I was weeping. The realization of what it took to bring the Savior into the world overwhelmed me. I'm so grateful the author touched on this aspect of the story.

On a scale of one to five, this book is off the charts. Other than the Bible, I'm not one to reread books. This one has so much wisdom and heart that I will go back to savor it again.

Writers and Readers:  What novels have inspired you and encouraged you in your Christian walk?

Disclaimer: I received this book on a blog giveaway a couple of years ago. I wasn't paid anything for a favorable review. All opinions expressed, as always, are completely mine. 

On My Nightstand - Who Do I Lean On? by Neta Jackson

If you enjoy series books, I highly recommend Neta Jackson's Yada Yada series and House of Hope series. I completed Who Do I Lean On? about a week ago. It's Book 3 in the House of Hope volumes. I'm now reading Book 4, Who Is My Shelter?

Yada Yada novels center around a group of women who start praying together on a regular basis. The characters cover a broad range of ethnicities and the Chicago setting goes from a penthouse apartment to a homeless shelter. The books were so popular that they spawned Yada Yada Prayer Groups throughout the country.

The House of Hope series has many of the same characters and adds some new ones. The main character, Gabby Fairbanks, lives in luxury but her marriage is strained at best. An encounter with Lucy, a homeless woman, impacts her in ways she couldn't imagine. I'm enjoying her story.

One thing I loved about both these series was the authenticity of the characters. It wouldn't surprise me if I met one of them in person. Gabby with her corkscrew, redheaded curls, Lucy with her shopping cart and knit hat, Jody teaching elementary school by day and a typing class on Saturdays at Manna House, and the rest of the gang all became friends I looked forwarding to catch up with in each book.

I don't want to give away any spoilers, but I think you'll enjoy following the lives of these folks and watching how God works in their lives.

Disclaimer:  Neither the author nor the publisher requested a favorable review or paid me. All opinions are mine as always.

Writers and Readers:  What makes a series special for you? Characters? Setting? Plot? Please share.

On My Nightstand - The Cat Lady's Secret by Linda W. Yezak

Emily Taylor returns to her hometown, but does her best to avoid old friends. She has a soft spot in her heart for those who face dire situations. Her friend, Millie, captures feral cats, and people pour out their hearts to her. Emily then helps them anonymously through her lawyer friend.

The handsome veterinarian, Scott, takes care of the kitties Millie finds. Scott keeps asking Emily for a date, but she refuses. He's frustrated at her rejections, but perseveres. Will he still pursue her when her secrets are exposed?

It took me a little while to get into this book, but I'm glad I stuck with it. When the author threw in suspense, it made me perk up. All in all it was a fun read and touched on some important spiritual truths.

I'm giving this story four stars.

Disclaimer: I received this book in a blog giveaway. Neither the author nor the publisher paid me for or requested a favorable review. All opinions, as always, are mine and mine alone.

On My Nightstand - Murder Comes by Mail by A. H. Gabhart

This is the second book in the Hidden Springs Mystery series. I didn't read the first one, but it didn't detract from the story.

Michael Keane saves the life of a would-be jumper and becomes an instant hero. Yet, the man's words haunt him. When pictures of dead women start arriving, he's convinced he saved the life of a serial killer. He's obsessed with trying to protect the women he knows from becoming the next victim.

Ann Gabhart does a great job with this cozy mystery. For those of you unfamiliar with the genre, the murders occur offstage and the focus is on the whodunit part. I liked the way she got into the minds and hearts of the characters. I did figure out the solution. If you're a mystery buff, I'd be surprised if you failed to pick up on the clues.

The setting is reminiscent of Mayberry and Andy Griffith which I loved. Maybe that's one of the reasons this book drew me in and kept me involved. Some of the characters' quirks and the easy interaction between them and Michael reminded me of Andy and the gang. Yet, Hidden Springs has its distinct brand that sets it apart from the long history to its modern-day problems.

I'm giving this book Five Stars. I'll be looking for the first book, as well as the next one in the series.

Disclaimer: I won this book in a blog giveaway. Neither the author nor the publisher requested or paid me for a favorable review. All opinions are mine.

Writers:  Have you thought about writing a cozy mystery? Please share.

Readers:  Are you a fan of the cozy mystery genre? Please share.

On My Nightstand - Anchor In The Storm by Sarah Sundin

Lillian Avery keeps everyone at arm's length. Whenever people saw she was crippled, they rejected her, so she's learned to protect her heart. She's determined to reach her career goals and manages to land a job as a pharmacist with Dixon's drugstore. When Arch stars flirting, she brushes away his attention like an annoying mosquito.

Arch Vandenburg, a Naval Officer and her brother's best friend, visits the Avery family while on leave. He desperately wants someone to love him for who he is and not his money.

If there were Olympic medals for writers, Sarah Sundin would snag a gold for this book. I loved the addition of mystery and suspense to the romance. The characters grabbed my heart from the first page, and I read the book in record time. There was a strong spiritual thread, and the book was a clean read.

I can't wait for the next one in the series. 5 Stars!

Disclaimer: I did not get paid for this review, and all opinions are mine alone.

Writers: There are a gazillion romances out there. If you write this genre, how do you give your stories that added zip?

Readers: What type of romances do you enjoy? Historical? Contemporary? Romantic Suspense? Other? Please share.

On My Nightstand - The Courier of Caswell Hall by Melanie Dobson

This book attracted me because it takes place during the Revolutionary War in Williamsburg, Virginia. In addition to a sometimes heart-breaking romance, I enjoyed history coming alive through the characters' eyes. Other than Betsey Ross sewing our first flag, I never gave much thought to the role of women in the war effort.

Like the Civil War, families, neighbors and friends were divided between the Patriots and the Loyalists. Each feared reprisals from the other side.

The one thing I'd suggest to readers is skip the prologue until after you've finished the story. I felt it gave away too much and diluted the tension. It nearly ruined the book for me. I'm glad I stuck with it though as the second half of the story picked up the pace.

Well written, great characters, awesome historical details, and a great plot make this a satisfying story. If not for the prologue, I'd give it five stars. As it stands, I'm giving it four stars.

Disclaimer: Neither the author nor the publisher requested a favorable review. I didn't receive any payment, and all opinions are mine and mine alone.

Writers:  While I've used a prologue in one of my books (The Moses Conspiracy), I avoided getting too specific. Do you use prologues/epilogues? Please share.

 Readers: What is your opinion of prologues/epilogues? Yay or nay?

On My Nightstand - Flee From Evil by Connie Almony

This is a multi-layered story about two people, whose paths cross again. They've both changed after becoming Christians, but Cassandra has a hard time believing Vince has truly turned his life around. With two kids, one autistic, her protective instincts are at high alert.

Author Connie Almony did a good job with the characters. I thought the story benefited from the addition of the autistic child. Autism has become more common, and I learned quite a bit about the subject.

I did get a bit annoyed with the heroine's intense grudge but found it more understandable as past incidents were revealed. The element of suspense ramped up the tension for me and lifted it from a simple romance to a riveting story.

This book gets five stars. I'm looking forward to the next story in this series.

Disclaimer: Neither the author nor the publisher requested a favorable review. I didn't receive any payment, and all opinions are mine and mine alone.

Writers:  Have you thought about including characters with disabilities in your stories? Please share.

Readers:  Have you read stories that educated you about some aspect of life (not only illnesses)? Do they appeal to you? Please share.

On My Nightstand - The Isaac Project by Sarah Monzon

This is Author Sarah Monzon's debut novel, and she did a really good job. Some might consider the hero, Luke Masterson, too perfect, but my own Prince Charming was a lot like him. :) Becky Sawyer, the heroine, is well portrayed. Her emotional pain and thought processes ring true.

The story premise fascinated me - a modern-day Isaac and Rebecca. Becky's friend, Lisa, acted as the go-between and took her role seriously.

As an action/suspense fan, the mystery element added to the tension. The author put together an appealing story with characters I could care about.

I'm giving this one five stars and looking forward to more from this author.

Disclaimer: Neither the author nor the publisher requested a favorable review. I didn't receive any payment, and all opinions are mine and mine alone.


Writers:   Numerous authors have taken Biblical stories and given them a modern or historical twist. Have you considered writing this type of fiction? Why or why not?

Readers:  Do unusual plots pique your interest or do you favor the tried and true? Please share.

On My Nightstand - The Master's Calling by Amber Schamel

Malon Ben-Tyrus is now an adult and desires freedom from the tyranny of Rome. He's sure Jesus will take his rightful place as ruler. When things don't work out the way he expects, he's devastated. His disappointment is compounded by other troubles, and he wonders if he and his family will survive.

This is the final book in Amber's Series. To get the most out of this novel, you'll want to read the others first. They're all good, but The Master's Calling was my favorite.

The author kept the pace moving along. Each character was well-defined, and I cared about Malon. As in the other books in this series, Amber's setting put me in the story.

The Master's Calling gets a rating of 5 stars.

Writers:  Research is a key part of writing a novel. What resources do you use for your settings or historical details?

Readers: Do you enjoy Biblical Fiction? What are some of the titles you've read?

On My Nightstand - Submerged by Dani Pettrey

Bailey Craig returns to Yancey, Alaska after her aunt is killed in a plane crash. Certain residents won't let her forget her wild years, but the McKenna family takes her under their wing.

Cole McKenna, the man she once loved, is torn between memories and the obvious change in Bailey. As a member of a rescue team, he needs her help in finding clues to a string of murders.

Romantic suspense is one of my favorite genres. The author did a great job weaving the relationship between Bailey and Cole into the story.

The richness in detail made Submerged captivating. Dani Pettrey's research skills shine as she pours Russian history and vivid scenes of diving onto the page. The setting of Alaska gave the book a unique flavor.

I cared about these characters, their lives, and their futures. I'll be picking up the other books in the series. Overall, I give this book five stars for the writing, plot, and research. It's a winner.

Disclaimer: Neither the author nor the publisher requested a favorable review. I purchased the book, and all the opinions expressed are my honest evaluation.

Writers:  Do you find research tedious or do you enjoy it? Please elaborate on your response.

Readers:  Do you like an element of romance mixed in with suspense novels? Please share.

On My Nightstand - A Man Called Blessed by Ted Dekker

After reading Blessed Child, I immediately purchased A Man Called Blessed. Caleb is now an adult and has lost some of his fire. When life settles into the pattern of daily living, his spirit grows restless.

Rebecca Solomon, a soldier who is tired of taking lives, embarks on an archaeological journey to find the original Ark of the Covenant. Her father's lifelong dream to return the Ark to Israel and rebuild the temple collides with the fears of government leaders that it will ignite a war.

This book takes off like a rocket and rarely pauses. The situation becomes more dire with every turn of the page - just the way I like my suspense. Supernatural elements and the varying character points of view make this a fascinating read.

I'd read one other Ted Dekker book in the past, but this series whet my reading appetite for more. Several of his novels are going on my Wish List.

Disclaimer:  Neither the author nor the publisher requested a review or provided this book. (Indeed, I doubt if they even know I exist.) I purchased it, and all opinions expressed are my honest assessment of the story.

Writers and Readers:  What are key elements you like to see in a suspense novel?

On My Nightstand - She's Mine by Tammy Doherty

Caitlin Harrington's life is in crash-and-burn mode. An ex-boyfriend is stalking her, her grandmother dies, and her job has gone the way of the do-do bird. She returns to her hometown of Naultag to settle the estate, but trouble is on her doorstep.

Sean Taggart rescues people from burning buildings, but saving Caitlin from her troubles is his greatest challenge. The beautiful woman tugs at his heart, but past experience makes him keep her at arm's length.

Tammy Doherty is a new author to me. I saw her book in one of the Facebook groups and on impulse bought it. Wow! She knows how to ramp up the tension. At the point where I thought the story was winding down, she threw in a twist that I never saw coming.

I've got her book, Celtic Cross, on my Kindle and plan to read it soon. Discovering a new-to-me author that I like makes me one hungry reader.

She's Mine gets five stars.

Disclaimer: Neither the author nor the publisher requested or paid me to review this book. I purchased it, and the opinions expressed are mine.

Writers: Whether you write romance or some other genre, do you save a little twist for the end of your manuscript? Please share.

Readers:  Do you like to figure out whodunit or do you enjoy being surprised? Please share your thoughts.

On My Nightstand - Secrets She Kept by Cathy Gohlke

Hannah Sterling's parents shielded her from family secrets. When her widowed mother dies, the mysteries haunt her to the point she cannot function. She discovers a letter and decides to pursue all leads in the hopes of eliminating their effects on her life.

Against her aunt's wishes, she travels to Germany. More questions surface and few answers until her tour guide, Carl Schmidt, reveals what he knows.

Cathy Gohlke once again crafts a book that keeps me thinking between reading opportunities. Her characters' dialogue and emotional responses to their situations are natural and seamless.

Very few authors achieve the level of writing I see in this book and her other novels. These are the types of books aspiring novelists need to absorb.

Whether you're a reader or a writer, Secrets She Kept will satisfy your thirst for a well-written story.  A scale of one to five is inadequate. This one is off the charts.

Disclaimer: The author and publisher did not request a review or provide a copy of this book. I purchased it, and all opinions expressed here are mine.

Writers:  Do you have a favorite author that makes you sit back and enjoy a story without the internal editor kicking in? Please share.

Readers:  Do you value book reviews or ignore them? Why?

What Bugs Me About Reviewing Books?

Reading is one of my favorite activities. It's not unusual for me to have 2-3 books going at the same time.

I also enjoy recommending books, but the rating system of stars leaves much to be desired. While I may enjoy the story, perhaps certain aspects of a book don't sit well with me. For example: I've read stories that I loved, but they had some technical/formatting/writing issues.

So...I propose that we have a two-tier system for reviews like the ice skating world. They rate skaters on their technical ability and then on their artistry.

Writers and Readers:  What do you think of my idea? Should I incorporate this into my book recommendations/reviews here on the blog?

Photo Credit:  drivving

On My Nightstand - Captured by Love by Jody Hedlund

Living on Michilimackinaw Island (say that 3 times fast) in 1814 during the British occupation means severe hunger. Angelique MacKenzie takes the early morning hours to fish and bring a meager ration to her blind friend, Miriam. She longs for the day when the war will be over, and she can get away from her merciless stepfather.

When her long-absent friend, Pierre, returns to the island, she's thrilled but wary. Fur trading and the wilderness are in his blood. Island life will never satisfy him. All she wants is a quiet life and a family.

Pierre is captivated by the little girl who has now grown into a beautiful woman. What they each want is so different. How could there possibly be a future for them, especially when his brother can give her the kind of life he cannot.

The number of twists and turns in this book makes The Twist king, Chubby Checker, look like he's standing still. Every time I thought, "Ah, now all will be well," Jody threw another problem their way.

Rich historical and setting detail, complex characters, and a heart-throbbing romance make a dynamite combination. This is a great gift idea for your favorite reader of historical romances. Five stars for this excellent, well-written story!

Disclaimer: I received this book as a gift from a friend. Neither the author nor the publisher requested a favorable review. All opinions shared are mine alone. I did not receive any payment for this review.

On My Nightstand - The Dancing Master by Julie Klassen

Alec Valcourt, his mother, and sister move from London to Devonshire after a major setback in their fortunes. As a dancing and fencing master, he's distressed to learn that his chosen profession is prohibited in the village of Beaworthy.

Julia Midwinter, restless and longing for the love of her father, wants nothing more than to escape the confines of Buckleigh Manor and her overprotective mother. The new man in town intrigues her, but he's far below her station in life.

Both discover the loyalty of friends and the value of truth. Julie Klassen creates another Regency Romance that will tug at your heart. Her attention to detail from the period costumes and dances to the local customs add a richness to her books that I appreciate as a reader.

Although I'm not a Jane Austen devotee, Julie Klassen may just convert me!

Disclaimer: Neither the author nor the publisher requested this review or gave me any payment for it. I received the book as a gift from a friend.

Writers and Readers: Did you enjoy Jane Austen's books? Reading them in high school was an ordeal for me, but I'm thinking about re-visiting them. What do you suggest I add to my reading list?

On My Nightstand - Rebellious Heart by Jody Hedlund

Susanna Smith, daughter of a minister, and endowed with a quick mind and sharper wit, faces a challenge to everything she's ever known. Will she choose the safe path or stand up for those less fortunate.

Ben Ross is a firebrand lawyer. His passion for justice and his attraction to the beautiful Susanna send him into serious turmoil. Her traditional views and loyalties endanger his cause, but he notices something special about her: she's not afraid to speak her mind or consider the facts.

Jody Hedlund once again gives us a wonderful tale of romance, danger, and suspense. I loved the timeframe of the pre-Revolutionary War period and the birth pangs of a new nation. At the end of the book, she noted this story was loosely based on letters between Abigail and John Adams.

Five stars for this one!

Disclaimer:  Neither the author nor the publisher requested a review or gave me any money for it. I received the book as a gift, and all opinions, as always, are mine alone.

Writers and  Readers:  Have you read any of Jody's books? Which one is your favorite?

 

Louie's Big Day by Maria Morgan - Giveaway!

Please welcome my friend and fellow blogger, Maria Morgan, to Christian Writer/Reader Connection. Here's the story of her delightful children's book. Giveaway!

Do you remember when you were really young? Were you afraid you would have a hard time making friends? Maybe you were anxious about trying out for the soccer team. You might have been concerned you wouldn’t be invited to a classmate’s birthday party.

It doesn’t matter how old you are, we all face fears. The question is whether we let those fears prevent us from doing what we were made to do – or we persevere in spite of them.

Passing along truth

The Lord has a purpose and plan for each person He has created. And part of His plan includes relationships with others.

It’s never too early to begin teaching our children biblical truths like these. Here’s how Moses put it:

And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. Deuteronomy 6:7

A fun option

Teaching godly truths can be done throughout the day in a variety of ways. If you enjoy reading to your kids, my new children’s book, Louie’s BIG day! will help you convey these concepts through a fun storyline:

Louie is a bright red lawnmower who used to live at the hardware store with his friends: Ruthie Rake, Eddie Edger, Bobbie Blower, Terri Trowel, and Henri Hose. Recently he was purchased by a man and his wife and now he’s on his own.

Louie misses his friends, but it’s time to find out if he can do the job he was made to do. Join Louie for his BIG adventure and discover the surprise that awaits him at the end of the day!

Louie the Lawnmower series

The first in the Louie the Lawnmower book series, Louie’s BIG day! wraps up with questions to engage you and your child in conversation and help you re-emphasize biblical truths.

Louie even has his own website where you can download a free copy of the audio version of Louie’s BIG day! Louie’s adventures are just getting started. Keep your eyes open for the second book in the Louie the Lawnmower series: Louie & the Leaf Pile, due out later this year!

Purchase Louie’s BIG day! here: http://www.amazon.com/Louies-Big-Day-Maria-Morgan-ebook/dp/B00MC338YS

About the author

Maria I. Morgan was born with an active imagination that shows up in her endearing 

stories for children. Originally an inspirational author and speaker for adults, Maria has 

widened her circle to include kids. She lives in the muggy South with her husband, two 

retrievers, and two Maine Coon kitties – the perfect mix to fuel her creativity for years to 

come!

(You can find her devotionals and download a free copy of her eBook, God Speaking, at 

www.mariaimorgan.com)

Connect with the author:

Website: www.mariaimorgan.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WriterMariaIMorgan

Twitter: https://twitter.com/mariaimorgan

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/mariaimorgan/

Connect with Louie:

Website: www.mariaimorgan.wix.com/louie-the-lawnmower

 

Giveaway! Leave a comment with your email address (required). Must be a U.S. resident and follower of this blog. Deadline: September 25, 2014, midnight. Winner to be announced September 26, 2014. Void where prohibited.

 

Disclaimer: I did not receive any payment for this recommendation/post. The author provided a pdf copy of her book for my unbiased review. 

 

 

On My Nightstand - Life Support by Candace Calvert

Please Note: The above link does not work in this post.

Nurse Lauren Barclay spends her entire life running interference for her wild-child sister, Jessica. She returns to Houston after a brief hiatus in Austin because of her sister's escalating problems.

Physician's Assistant and single dad to cute Emma, Elijah Landry is at odds with his father. The threat of a restraining order does nothing to stop his vigilant care for his disabled older brother.

Mounting family tensions and a hurricane make any chance of a relationship seem like an impossibility.

As in real life, Candace shows how people's actions reflect their past and can entrap them. There are no pat, easy answers in this book. Each character struggles through their conflicts in real time.

In my opinion, the storyline and characters all rate 5 stars. I loved the sweet father/daughter duo and their Newfoundland dog, Shrek. Even the characters offstage add color to this intriguing story.

Disclaimer:  I won this book in a blog contest. I was not paid or asked to give a favorable review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

On My Nightstand - Ashes in the Wind by Peggy Levesque

When Sara Jennings' DEA agent husband is killed, she becomes the next target. The Witness Protection program fails to safeguard her, and she returns to her old life. Another agent and good friend, James MacIntyre tries hard to keep her alive, but it's a continual battle.

I don't recall where I found this book, but I'm glad it found its way onto my Kindle. I'm a big fan of suspense with an element of romance. The author did a great job developing the characters, researching, and writing. This one is a winner!

Writers and Readers: Do you enjoy suspense with an element of romance? Please share your favorite author in this genre.