Showing posts with label Christian fiction. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Christian fiction. Show all posts

Saturday, June 15, 2019

Book Review: The Number of Love by Roseanna M. White


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Title: The Number of Love

Author: Roseanna M. White

Series: The Codebreakers #1

Genre: Historical Fiction

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

Three years into the Great War, England’s greatest asset is their intelligence network—field agents risking their lives to gather information, and codebreakers able to crack every German telegram. Margot De Wilde thrives in the environment of the secretive Room 40, where she spends her days deciphering intercepted messages. But when her world is turned upside down by an unexpected loss, for the first time in her life numbers aren’t enough.

Drake Elton returns wounded from the field, followed by an enemy that just won’t give up. He’s smitten quickly by the too-intelligent Margot, but how to convince a girl who lives entirely in her mind that sometimes life’s answers lie in the heart?

Amidst biological warfare, encrypted letters, and a German spy who wants to destroy not just them, but others they love, Margot and Drake will have to work together to save them all from the very secrets that brought them together.




~ MY REVIEW ~
**5 stars**

Roseanna M. White is a fantastic writer. Her latest novel, The Number of Love, starts a brand new series set during the Great War ... and actually focuses on a secondary character from her last series!

If you read A Song Unheard (SHADOWS OVER ENGLAND #2), you met the brilliant, young Margot De Wilde. I don't know if she intrigued you, but she did me! It was so exciting to dive into her personal story in the first book of THE CODEBREAKERS. She is now seventeen years of age and spends her days deciphering messages and breaking codes. Throw in a brave field agent named Drake, spies, emotional drama, and a journey of faith, and you have a superb historical novel.

Margot was such a fascinating character to follow. Her brain just works so differently ... always thinking in numbers. She's spunky, but also sweet and unassuming, in a way. The way she approaches people, friendship, romance, even God, is very interesting. I loved watching her grow. I loved seeing her faith expand. I loved the way she fell in love. At some points, I worried that The Number of Love would push that feminist rhetoric, saying stuff about how being a wife and a mother is such a drudge, and why do they force that on women, and Margot was made for more than that!! But I think that it actually turned out quite beautiful and sweet, and cherished Biblical womanhood.

This author does really well with historical detail and setting. It was intriguing learning more about World War I, and also going undercover with the spies and breaking enemy codes! So cool! Action, drama, intrigue ... this book has it all! Again, I loved the faith theme - it was heartfelt. And that romance was just so tender and adorable and fun! Drake Elton was definitely a great character. And also his sweet sister! It was great seeing characters from other books, as well.

Truly, a unique, exciting, and thoughtful novel. I loved it! So looking forward to Book Two!

I received a complimentary copy of The Number of Love from the author/publisher. This review is honest and all my own.


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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award nominated author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary. She and her family make their home in the beautiful mountains of West Virginia. You can learn more about her and her stories at www.RoseannaMWhite.com.


Thursday, June 13, 2019

Book Review: The King's Mercy by Lori Benton


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Title: The King's Mercy

Author: Lori Benton

Series: Standalone

Genre: Historical Fiction

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

For readers of Sara Donati and Diana Gabaldon, this epic historical romance tells of fateful love between an indentured Scotsman and a daughter of the 18th century colonial south.

When captured rebel Scotsman Alex MacKinnon is granted the king's mercy - exile to the Colony of North Carolina - he's indentured to Englishman Edmund Carey as a blacksmith. Against his will Alex is drawn into the struggles of Carey's slaves - and those of his stepdaughter, Joanna Carey. A mistress with a servant's heart, Joanna is expected to wed her father's overseer, Phineas Reeves, but finds herself drawn instead to the new blacksmith. As their unlikely relationship deepens, successive tragedies strike the Careys. When blame falls unfairly upon Alex he flees to the distant mountains where he encounters Reverend Pauling, itinerate preacher and friend of the Careys, now a prisoner of the Cherokees. Haunted by his abandoning of Joanna, Alex tries to settle into life with the Cherokees, until circumstances thwart yet another attempt to forge his freedom and he's faced with the choice that's long hounded him: continue down his rebellious path or embrace the faith of a man like Pauling, whose freedom in Christ no man can steal. But the price of such mercy is total surrender, and perhaps Alex's very life.

~ MY REVIEW ~
**5 stars**

Lori Benton pens another riveting tale, filled with love, loss, darkness, danger, and faith. This author is one of those authors whose books you know will be a rich historical adventure. And in the 1700s, no less! One of my favorite eras! Her novels never disappoint.

In The King's Mercy we meet a Scotsman named Alex MacKinnon who has been exiled to the colony of North Carolina. Mistress of the plantation he's to be an indentured servant on, is a young woman named Joanna. While he's plotting escape, she's burdened heavily by the life her stepfather is adamant that they live.

Lori Benton's stories often have a heavy undertone to them, and The King's Mercy was no different. Although there were sweet friendship moments, a tender love story, and awe-inspiring acts of faith, this book also highlighted the heart-wrenching happenings in the lives of the slaves on Severn Plantation, as well as unfolded the story of a particularly disturbing villain. Sometimes I wanted to scream in frustration at a certain character! Other times I was sick to my stomach as a vile mystery unfolded. Yet, nonetheless, it was incredible. And when the darkness was cleared away, the beauty shone so radiantly! I loved following all the threads of this story ... with Alex, Joanna, little sister Charlotte, a slave girl named Jemma, and a Christ-filled minister named Reverend Pauling.

While the story mostly takes place on Severn Plantation, there are some intriguing surprises and twists in store ... that put me in the mind of Lori Benton's previous books! The King's Mercy truly is a masterful tale. I loved the faith theme so very much. It was raw and real and permeated the entire book. There were some amazing moments! I so appreciate how this author unashamedly shares her faith in her works of fiction. It is beautiful. And it makes the story so much more meaningful and relatable and beautiful for me!

There are definitely some mature elements in this book. Fornication, rape, and child abuse are discussed, though not in explicit detail.

Overall, another stunning historical fiction novel from Lori Benton. I eagerly look forward to her next book.

I received a advanced reader copy of The King's Mercy from WaterBrook and Multnomah. This review is honest and all my own.

Monday, April 1, 2019

Book Review: A Hero for Miss Hatherleigh by Carolyn Miller


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Title: A Hero for Miss Hatherleigh

Author: Carolyn Miller

Series: Regency Brides: Daughters of Aynsley #1

Genre: Historical (Regency Romance)

Audience: Adult

ABOUT THE BOOK

Can a proper noble lady find a future with a fossil-hunting man of faith?

As the daughter of Viscount Aynsley, Caroline Hatherleigh knows every rule of society - and she's always followed them precisely. But when she visits south Devonshire and encounters a fossil-hunting scientist and his sister, her assumptions about what is right are shaken. Questions she has never considered about the importance of friendship and faith suddenly confront her - and her comfortable understanding about how the world works is thrown off balance. What if God wants to be the center of her life, rather than merely a social obligation?

Gideon Kirby loves science, and hunting down proof of past lives is a joy he won't willingly give up. But his scientific leanings are being challenged both by his personal beliefs and by local smugglers in the Devonshire countryside. And every day his sister's illness becomes more desperate, her care growing more demanding. Adding a viscount's daughter to the mix is a complication Gideon never expected - especially since he must stay far away from this young woman he's falling for in order to protect his beloved sister's secret.

When a mysterious stranger visits the village, that secret will be exposed, no matter how Gideon fights. Then tragedy strikes in a smugglers' cave. And the threat of scandal may lead to broken hearts and passionless propriety. Will the shaky bond these two have nurtured be strong enough to overcome their differences - or will the trust they've withheld from each other tear three lives apart?

~ MY REVIEW ~
**4 stars**

Carolyn Miller is a writer of unique and heartfelt regency romance novels. I'm quite a fan of this historical era, so it was a delight to discover these books! A Hero for Miss Hatherleigh was such an enjoyable read, and I so look forward to delving into the next two books in the REGENCY BRIDES: DAUGHTERS OF AYNSLEY series.

This story is about Caroline, the eldest daughter of Viscount Aynsley. Tying into Carolyn Miller's most recent series, REGENCY BRIDES: A PROMISE OF HOPE (Winning Miss WinthropMiss Serena's Secret, & The Making of Mrs. Hale), this book follows Caroline as she goes to stay with her grandmama in Devon as to sidestep possible scandal. There she meets a mysterious couple, gets involved in some scientific escapades, and is forced to confront her own selfishness and lack of faith. What does she believe about God?

I really liked the faith theme in this book, how it was woven so deep into the story. Caroline's journey to Jesus Christ was honest and profound, and brought tears to my eyes. It's not often you see a genuine coming to faith in fiction these days, so I very much value that aspect of this author's work.

There was excitement, drama, danger, tenderness, and a lovely thoughtful air about A Hero for Miss Hatherleigh. Gideon Kirby's interest in science and fossils lent a different aspect to this book than other regency romances. The love story was very sweet and clean. I loved getting a glimpse of characters from previous books, and also briefly meeting Caroline's younger sisters, Cecilia and Verity. So excited to read their tales!

My caution is that there are some difficult topics raised, so be careful if you're a sensitive reader. Abuse and abortion are mentioned, and there was one or two scenes of violence. (view spoiler)

Overall, a very lovely Christian historical novel set during the early 1800s. As always with Carolyn Miller, I look forward to reading more.

FTC DisclosureI received a complimentary copy of A Hero for Miss Hatherleigh from Kregel publications through their blogger program. This review is honest and completely my own.

Thursday, March 28, 2019

Historical Romance Regency (1811-1820) Reads

Hello, my reader friends! Today I want to share with you a few novels that I've enjoyed. The genre? Historical Romance set during the regency era (1811-1820). If I recall correctly, each story is set somewhere in England. Think Jane Austen and all the loveliness! *heart eyes*

Also, most of these are Christian fiction, though a scant few are clean, secular fiction. Almost all are geared toward adults, some YA.

(A note on that: some of these books I read years ago and can't remember all the details content-wise. Sometimes even Christian-fiction can get a little edgy as I have lamented about in a couple blog posts [Does What I Read Honor God? and Sexy Christians], so exercise caution. Be intentional about what you read. And be obedient if you feel a check in your spirit.)

I hope you enjoy and find some lovely, new reads! ^_^

***

Melanie Dickerson

A fun, suspenseful romance series! I wouldn't say these made my favorites shelf, but this author does have lovely characters and entertaining tales.


A Spy's Devotion {The Regency Spies of London #1} by Melanie Dickerson



A Viscount's Proposal {The Regency Spies of London #2} by Melanie Dickerson



A Dangerous Engagement {The Regency Spies of London #3} by Melanie Dickerson


***

Julianne Donaldson

These two books are absolutely delightful, clean, darling romances. They are not classified as Christian fiction, and I think they might be YA. (Blackmoore did have a darker theme to it, actually, as I recall.)


Edenbrooke {A Proper Romance} by Julianne Donaldson



Blackmoore {A Proper Romance} by Julianne Donaldson


***

Camille Elliot

I've only read one book by this author (Prelude for a Lord), but was it ever delightful! Intriguing and unique! I hope to read some more regency romance from her!


Prelude for a Lord by Camille Elliot



The Spinster's Christmas {Lady Wynwood #1} by Camille Elliot

***

Kristi Ann Hunter

I've only read perhaps three of these, but enough to know that this author writes some thought-provoking and sweet regency tales! They have some danger and drama, and the faith theme is usually stirring.


A Lady of Esteem {Hawthorne House #0.5} by Kristi Ann Hunter


A Noble Masquerade {Hawthorne House #1}



An Elegant Facade {Hawthorne House #2} by Kristi Ann Hunter



An Uncommon Courtship {Hawthorne House #3} by Kristi Ann Hunter


An Inconvenient Beauty {Hawthorne House #4} by Kristi Ann Hunter



A Search for Refuge {Haven Manor #0.5} by Kristi Ann Hunter


A Defense of Honor {Haven Manor #1} by Kristi Ann Hunter



A Return of Devotion {Haven Manor #2} by Kristi Ann Hunter


A Pursuit of Home {Haven Manor #3} by Kristi Ann Hunter

***

Julie Klassen

This author writes absolutely phenomenal historical fiction. So rich and authentic-feeling! I have fallen in love with her novels. I believe she writes with subtle themes of faith. A note of caution: I have found a couple of her books to have some edgy romance scenes, in my opinion. I probably mention it in my reviews. Use your own discretion.


Lady of Milkweed Manor by Julie Klassen



The Apothecary's Daughter by Julie Klassen


The Silent Governess by Julie Klassen


The Girl in the Gatehouse by Julie Klassen


The Maid of Fairbourne Hall by Julie Klassen


The Tutor's Daughter by Julie Klassen



The Dancing Master by Julie Klassen





The Painter's Daughter by Julie Klassen



The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill {Tales from Ivy Hill #1} by Julie Klassen


The Ladies of Ivy Cottage {Tales from Ivy Hill #2} by Julie Klassen


The Bride of Ivy Green {Tales from Ivy Hill #3} by Julie Klassen


The Bridge to Belle Island by Julie Klassen

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Carolyn Miller

One of my favorite regency romance authors! She weaves such wonderful themes of faith into these clean, sweet love stories! They're unique, endearing, and adventurous.


The Elusive Miss Ellison {Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace #1} by Carolyn Miller


The Captivating Lady Charlotte {Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace #2} by Carolyn Miller



The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey {Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace #3} by Carolyn Miller



Winning Miss Winthrop {Regency Brides: A Promise of Hope #1} by Carolyn Miller


Miss Serena's Secret {Regency Brides: A Promise of Hope #2} by Carolyn Miller


The Making of Mrs. Hale {Regency Brides: A Promise of Hope #3} by Carolyn Miller


A Hero for Miss Hatherleigh {Regency Brides: Daughters of Aynsley #1} by Carolyn Miller



Underestimating Miss Cecilia {Regency Brides: Daughters of Aynsley #2} by Carolyn Miller


Misleading Miss Verity {Regency Brides: Daughters of Aynsley #3} by Carolyn Miller