Students today are bombarded with opinions and research about Jesus that goes against everything you've been trying to teach them. They don't know if they can trust what the Bible says about Jesus because they don't know they can trust the Bible. They wonder if he really rose from the dead, or if he was even God. Let Lee Strobel's investigations into the real Jesus help your students see the truth about the Son of God.
Book Review
This. Book. Is. AMAZING. I mean, Lee Strobel is the author, so I knew it was gonna be good, but seriously. It's REALLY GOOD. I know that whenever I pick up one of Strobel's titles that I'm in for a good, educational read, and that's why I rave about him all the time. He's consistent. I have yet to read one of his books that I did not absolutely love (and I have read all of them). He has a way of digging to the bottom of a problem to find the best and most accurate answer available. He doesn't cut corners. He doesn't lean toward one side or another when investigating a new subject, so you know that you are getting an unbiased opinion, an opinion that was formed on facts and reason. I think that's another reason why this author is so appealing. In so many ways God requires us to just have faith and know that He is God and trust that he has everything under control and know that He doesn't owe us answers. And I get that. We're only human, after all. We have a limited view of things, but God, HIS perspective is infinite. But He gives us more to go on than you think. If you have any doubts as to the origin of biblical principles, I beg you, read one of Lee Strobel's books. I STRONGLY recommend "The Case for a Creator", which is by far my favorite book of his. I hope that you will pick up something by this author next time you are at the bookstore. You can't go wrong with any of them, and I promise you won't regret it.
Blessings,
Madilyn
D I S C L A I M E R: I was provided with a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not further compensated to review this product and all thoughts/sentiments expressed above are completely my own and unbiased.
In Regency England, however, the violin is considered an inappropriate instrument for a lady. Ostracized by society for her passion, Alethea practices in secret and waits for her chance to flee to the Continent, where she can play without scandal.
But when a thief’s interest in her violin endangers her and her family, Alethea is determined to discover the enigmatic origins of her instrument . . . with the help of the dark, brooding Lord Dommick.
Scarred by war, Dommick finds solace only in playing his violin. He is persuaded to help Alethea, and discovers an entirely new yearning in his soul.
Alethea finds her reluctant heart drawn to Dommick in the sweetest of duets . . . just as the thief’s desperation builds to a tragic crescendo . . ."
// Bethany's Book Review //
Camille Elliot's debut is a lovely regency novel with a nice sprinkle of mystery. Full of meaningful characters and lessons learned, it is a wonderful choice for all regency suspense fans!
I am quite a fan of regency fiction, and I also enjoy stories that have an aspect of mystery to keep things jumping. Prelude for a Lord involves both of these aspects, making for a delightful read with a very classical feel!
Even thought this is Camille Elliot's first novel, you really wouldn't think so from her elegant writing style, which impressed me right from the beginning. This author has such a lovely way with words, and her writing style really did fit perfectly with the regency genre. The story was very well thought out, but the way it was told added so much to the story!
This novel had a lot of characters, and I think that the author did an excellent job intertwining their lives, making for a well-thought out story line. I loved how certain aspects of one character's life provided insight into another characters personality. For example, the gentleman in the story had a sister who's protection he greatly valued. Since the author went into detail with his sister's character, you really got to know her and her fear of not being protected. Since we really get to know the sister well, we see how great her brother's integrity is when we see him go to certain lengths for his sister, and how that is his way of loving her. There were many other instances like this, that I just loved. It added another dimension to the novel!
Despite the fact that this is a regency fiction, this story surprisingly wasn't heavy on the romance, and rather focused on the main character and the mystery surrounding her. While there was romance at the end, I felt like the relationship status stayed at the "friendship" or "co-worker" level for a great portion of the story, cutting out a lot of mushy feelings and scenes. Personally, I like to have a controlled level of romance in the novels I read, so I loved how that worked in my favor with Prelude for a Lord.
Overall, I really enjoyed this novel, and would definitely recommend it! Fans of regency suspense will not want to miss out on this gem of a novel!
D I S C L A I M E R :: I received a complementary copy of Prelude for a Lord from the publisher, for the purpose of this review. I was not paid to promote this novel, and all thoughts expressed are completely my own, honest and unbiased opinions.
Bethany Hamilton has become a fitness expert by virtue of being a professional athlete who has excelled. And she's done it while overcoming incredible challenges. Whether you know Bethany or not, whether you surf or not, everyone has challenges, and in Fitness, Faith, and Fun (working), Bethany shares some of her core experiences with body, mind and spirit. Bethany shares her expertise as an athlete and a Christian, showing how your spiritual health is just as important as your physical health. This isn't a book about Bethany, this is a book about wellness, becoming your best 'You,' through fitness--physical and spiritual.
Book Review
When I ordered this book, I didn't even take the time to read the description. I figured it would be about the story about Bethany Hamilton and her faith, but I was actually pleasantly surprised to find out otherwise. When I realized that this was a fitness book, I'm not gonna lie, I was not thrilled. I'm not exactly the healthy eating, active every day type of person. I have tried a few work outs, but I've had a hard time sticking with them. This book helped me with that. It includes some workouts that you can do in the comfort of your home, and yet still change up your usual schedule and get motivated. Another thing that I have always had a hard time with is understanding why certain things are bad for me and why I should avoid them. Bethany went into detail in this book why you should be one of those "Label Readers". She explained what each thing was, how it affected your body, and how you should/should not incorporate it into your daily diet. Some of it really surprised me. Like, how can certain juices be bad for you? IT'S FRUIT. Well if it's made at home that's all fine and dandy, but in a lot of store bought juices they use added preservatives and sugar substitutes that are really bad for the human body. I loved learning about what my body needs to function properly and reap the benefits of every day life. Another thing that I loved about this book was how Bible based it was. There were a lot of scriptures scattered throughout the text that applied to the human body and how we should honor it as God's Temple. Now I'm not saying that I'm gonna all of a sudden be a health gooroo (or however you spell it), but I do think that with this book as a reference that I will be able to make a few small changes at a time that will eventually lead to a healthier, happier lifestyle.
Madi For The Literary Maidens
D I S C L A I M E R: I was provided with a free copy of this book by BookLook (formerly known as BookSneeze) in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not further compensated to review this product, and all thoughts and sentiments expressed above are completely my own and unbiased.
A jilted bride desperate to save her family from ruin. A bounty hunter seeking vengeance for a ravaged past. An arduous trek toward justice—or redemption.
Silver Matlock and Jared Newman know traveling together is a bad idea. Bad for Silver’s already tarnished reputation in her small Colorado town. Bad for bounty hunter Jared’s secret, single-minded mission for revenge. But Silver is determined to track down the rogue who left her at the altar and stole the last remnant of her father’s fortune. And Jared’s in a hurry to hunt down the murderer who destroyed his family—even if Silver is too distractingly beautiful for comfort.
The pair takes off over mountain and desert, past bleak homesteads and raw mining towns, hot on the trail of the two villains who took what wasn’t theirs to take. Soon supplies dwindle, secrets emerge, and suspicion leave Silver and Jared at odds when they need each other most. To confront an enemy deadlier than desert rattlesnakes and rocky cliffs, Silver and Jared must learn to forgive and trust and face the question they haven’t dared voice: What happens next?
Book Review
I love this author, and I love this book. Robin Lee Hatcher is a very consistent writer. A lot of times some of my "favorite" authors will write a really good book and then follow it up with a not-so-good book. That's what I like about Hatcher. I know that if she writes it that I'm gonna want to read it and that when I do read it that I'm gonna enjoy it. I've read more of her books than I can count, and I hope to read many more. When I first discovered that Hatcher was writing a Western novel, I'm not gonna lie, I was pretty darn excited. I love Western/Southern books, especially historical novels (It's a Texas thing). So when my must-read author decided to write a book in a must-read genre, my inner fangirl came out. My favorite character was Jared. I like the rugged cowboy type, and he most certainly is that. He reminds me of someone that I know. Country, rough around the edges, but a big sweetheart on the inside. I also loved Silver's character. I like reading about women that have some grit. When women characters are weak and dainty, to me it's hard to read because it's boring and unrealistic. I mean, it's possible to be feminine and still have a backbone. The characters don't always have to be riding on horseback through difficult terrain and eating hard tack like Silver, but when I read books about women that let people walk all over them (like in a lot of historical novels) it makes me nauseous. That's another thing that I like about Robin Lee Hatcher's writings, she always has strong characters that are driven with a purpose. The only complaint that I have about this book is that there were a few times where the plot became a bit predictable. For instance, as soon as Carlton's name was mentioned I figured out exactly who he was and what he was doing. But the story is more about the journey to find Carlton, not discovering his identity, so it's not that big of a deal. I highly recommend this book!
~Madi For The Literary Maidens
Note: I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book by The Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not further compensated to review this product, and all thoughts and sentiments expressed above are completely my own and unbiased.
Regina Beswick never dreamed of faraway places. She’s happy with her life as a classic car mechanic and owner of a restoration shop.
But an unexpected visitor and the discovery of a fairytale, drawn by her great-grandma, causes Regina to wonder if she might be destined for something more.
Tanner Burkhardt, Minister of Culture for the Grand Duchy of Hessenberg, must convince the strong-willed Southerner, Miss Beswick, that she is his country’s long-lost princess. Failure could destroy his reputation and change his nation forever.
As Regina and Tanner face the challenges before them, neither are prepared for love to invade their hearts and change every thing they believe about themselves.
However, when a royal opponent nearly destroys Regina’s future, she must lean into God and trust He has sovereignly brought her to her true and final destiny.
/ / Book Review / /
Wowzers! This book was simply fabulous. I read the first book in the royal wedding series (Once Upon A Prince ) last year, and I thoroughly enjoyed it! Needless to say, when the opportunity to review it's sequel came up. I was thrilled. Rachel Hauck is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. Not quite my absolute favorite, but she's definitely working her way up. Her stories are spectacular! What girl wouldn't want to read about a modern-day fairy tale? It got me to thinking how I would react were I put in Regina's place. I assume that I would be thrilled to have someone show up at my house one day with a letter from the king of a far away land stating that I was a long lost princess, but who knows? Regina is forced to choose between her love for her heritage and country and her love for her comfortable Southern home near her family. In a perfect world, she would be able to bring her family and business along with her, but she can't uproot her dad and stepmom, and she certainly won't be able to talk her partner Al into moving to a foreign country to remodel old cars when he can do it where he's spent his entire life. She is forced to come to the realization that being a princess is more than just pretty dresses and eloquent speech, it's about being a servant. But why would she serve a country that she didn't have a single connection to a week ago? She was born and raised in America, she was an American. Why would she travel half way around the world to save a country so small that it hardly warranted a place in her old high school history books? She figures that she might as well see what all the hub-bub is all about, so she agrees to a short trip to scope things out. One thing follows another, and next thing you know, Regina is swearing an oath to be the princess of Hessenberg, wearing pretty dresses, and falling for her chief advisor. What was happening? Her life had gone from comfortably predictable to a zero-to-sixty whirlwind in less than a month! She realized that she can't abandon the country of the great grandmother that she loved so dearly, but she still isn't sure that she is cut out for the job. I totally felt like I was walking through all these struggles right beside Princess Regina (and Tanner (; . . . ). You know what this book REALLY reminds me of? "The Princess Diaries". You know, those movies with Anne Hathaway? When Tanner told Regina of her inheritance to a kingdom, I so saw Mia Thermopalis saying, "Shut. Up!" in my head. I've always been a sucker for fairy tales, and this one roped me in, just as I expected it would. I can't recommend this series enough! Especially if you're a female with a soft spot for princesses (which most girls do, if we're honest with ourselves). READ IT READ IT READ IT.
~The Literary Maidens
Note: I was provided with a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion by The Litfuse Publicity Group. I was not paid to review this product and all thoughts and opinions expressed above are completely my own and unbiased.
"Diana Brennan came west on the orphan train and was given a home with a loving couple who cherished and spoiled her. At 17, she fell hard for Tyson Applegate, the son of a wealthy mine owner. After a whirlwind courtship and marriage, Tyson took off for adventures around the world, including fighting with the Rough Riders in Cuba. Receiving no word of him for seven years, Diana's infatuation with her dashing husband died an ugly death, and she is ready to move past the old pain and marry again, just as soon as Tyson is declared legally dead.
But when her husband returns, supposedly a changed man, he wants to reunite with his wife and run for the senate. While Diana suspects the election is his real reason for wanting her by his side, she agrees to maintain his home and to campaign with him, but when it is over, win or lose, she wants her freedom. He agrees with one condition----she must give him a chance to change her mind about him."
// Madi's Book Review //
Diana Brennan was orphaned at a young age, and she was separated from her biological brother and sister for what she feared would be forever. Diana was adopted by a very kind and loving couple, and grew up with everything she needed. They weren't insanely rich, but she was provided for and then some. After her father dies, and it's just Diana and her mother, Diana falls for Tyson Applegate. After a hasty courtship she marries the man that she believes she loves. Turns out that Tyson is somewhat of a rotten apple, and he caused her nothing but heartache.
Tyson has been gone for several years, and many believed that he was killed in the war. The day before Tyson is pronounced dead in an official court, Diana host a dinner party to announce her engagement to another man, where Tyson decides to show up uninvited and ruin her once again. How could the man that deserted her still be alive? It just wasn't possible. But it was, because there he stood. How had he been able to not write his wife or father for so many years? How had he been able to stand himself?
Turns out that Tyson has turned his life around and has committed his life to God, or so he claims. He wants Diana to move back in with him while he runs for public office, and she agrees, under a few conditions. They can basically have nothing to do with each other unless contact was unavoidable. As Tyson sets out to get his wife back, she is running away from any emotional attachment to him. He has hurt her one too many times, and Diana isn't taking the chance of getting her heart broken again.
Slowly but surely, Diana notices a change in Tyson, and she starts to fall for him all over again. Can her heart take it? What if he isn't what he seems to be? He's fooled her before. All Diana can do is let go and let God.
~
This was a pretty good read! I've never read anything by Robin Lee Hatcher, but I really enjoyed Beloved. Despite it's title, this novel didn't have near as much romance involved as you would think. I mean, it did, but it never even got to where it was at all inappropriate. Which will always get a thumbs up from me. All girls like a little romance, it's just how God wired us, but that doesn't mean that we want unnecessary thoughts put into our heads (at least I personally don't). I'm really impressed with how Hatcher put together such a sweet, romantic tale without adding unnecessary details. This book is teenager friendly, and I would be comfortable with anyone over thirteen or so reading it.
Another thing that I liked about this book were the characters. They're fantastic. I can really relate to Diana - not because she has been through so many relationship problems - she has a backbone and an almost bossy personality (totally me). And Tyson was just precious (after his transformation, of course). He would do just about anything for Diana, and his love for her was evident. All the things that he did to win her back just melted my heart. This novel was well worth the time I spent reading it, and I encourage you to read it as well.
~Madi For The Literary Maidens
Note: I was provided with a copy of this book free of charge by The Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not paid to review this product and all thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own and totally unbiased.
Title: Beloved Series: Where The Heart Lives // Book #3 Author: Robin Lee Hatcher
Source:Litfuse Blogger Program/Zondervan Publishers Number of Pages: 352 Publisher: Zondervan Publishers Publication Date: September 24th, 2013 Bethany's Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
// Book Synopsis // "Diana Brennan came west on the orphan train and was given a home with a loving couple who cherished and spoiled her. At 17, she fell hard for Tyson Applegate, the son of a wealthy mine owner. After a whirlwind courtship and marriage, Tyson took off for adventures around the world, including fighting with the Rough Riders in Cuba. Receiving no word of him for seven years, Diana's infatuation with her dashing husband died an ugly death, and she is ready to move past the old pain and marry again, just as soon as Tyson is declared legally dead.
But when her husband returns, supposedly a changed man, he wants to reunite with his wife and run for the senate. While Diana suspects the election is his real reason for wanting her by his side, she agrees to maintain his home and to campaign with him, but when it is over, win or lose, she wants her freedom. He agrees with one condition----she must give him a chance to change her mind about him."
// Bethany's Book Review //
This was the first book I've ever read by Robin Lee Hatcher, and though it wasn't a huge favorite for me, I did enjoy it and would consider it a nice, quick, one-time read.
Being that this was the first book I've read by Robin Lee Hatcher, I really didn't know how much I would enjoy Beloved. However after reading it, I'm glad I was able to, and enjoyed the story. This book was very unique to me, because unlike most romance novels that focus on how the two people meet, this book was all about this couple's marriage - which is something you don't see portrayed in novels a lot now days. I found it very unique and different from any other novel I've read. I really liked Robin's writing style, and the course of events and how they were strategically placed in a certain order to add definition to the story. For instance, at the end of every chapter, there would be a flash-back of sorts, to before the two main characters were married, giving insight to the story before the story, so to speak. I sometimes noticed that Robin would strategically have a flash back that would relate to the current place in the story, and found it to be a really neat writing style, that I liked.
I really enjoyed the little boy in this story, Ned. He just added so much to the story for me. Maybe it's because I love little children in a story, as it brings out the best in a person, and it certainly did for Diana as it brought out her kind-hearted personality. I loved seeing how Diana and Tyson took Ned in, and gave him a chance and made his life so much better because of the love that was shown to him.
Another thing I did like about this book is how, despite the title, the romance was very clean and minimal. There was just enough to keep the story sweet, but wasn't overpowering or the main focus of the story, which I really appreciated.
Overall, though I don't consider Beloved a favorite of this year, I'm glad I was able to read it and loved Robin's writing style. The ending was interesting as well! I would recommend this book for ages 13+ due to brief topics covered, and since the overall plot is about a man trying to win back his wife.
N O T E :: I received a complementary copy of Beloved from Litfuse and Zondervan publishers to read and review. I was not paid to do so, nor am I required to give a good review if I didn't like the book. All thoughts expressed in the review are completely my own, and unbiased by the free book.
Title:The Captive Maiden Series: Fairy Tales // Book #4 Author: Melanie Dickerson
Source:ARC review copy from the publisher Number of Pages: 304 ISBN:0310724414 Publisher: Zondervan Publication Date: November 19th, 2013 Bethany's Rating: 5 out of 5 stars Madi's Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
// Book Synopsis //
"Happily Ever After ...Or Happily Nevermore? Gisela's childhood was filled with laughter and visits from nobles such as the duke and his young son. But since her father's death, each day has been filled with nothing but servitude to her stepmother. So when Gisela learns the duke's son, Valten---the boy she has daydreamed about for years---is throwing a ball in hopes of finding a wife, she vows to find a way to attend, even if it's only for a taste of a life she'll never have.
To her surprise, she catches Valten's eye. Though he is rough around the edges, Gisela finds Valten has completely captured her heart. But other forces are bent on keeping the two from falling further in love, putting Gisela in more danger than she ever imagined."
// Bethany's Book Review //
Ever since I heard that Melanie Dickerson was writing a novel based on the classic fairy tale Cinderella, I knew I really, really wanted to read it. I love Cinderella, and I love Melanie Dickerson's novels even more, so the two combined make a sparkly fairy tale treat that didn't disappoint! Needless to say, I was pretty pumped about this book! And after reading it, I can say that this book completely reached my high expectations! This novel is for sure a read that any princess-lover shouldn't miss, as it definitely brings out the inner princess in every girl with a magical story that captures you from page one.
Everything about this book was so...princess-y. I know that sounds rather funny being that...you guessed it, it's based on a princess story. Obviously it is expected to be girly with the pretty clothes, high heels and jewelry and overall-princess theme. But what I mean by this is that it's totally a girly book and takes the whole princess deal to the highest level-which I just loved since I'm a total girl who likes to embrace femininity. Everything about this book, the storyline, the characters, the plot, clothing, setting, etc. just has a magical princess feel to it that makes a ultimate princess experience. All the little things like the jousting matches, the adventure, the gorgeous clothing, the ball, it all just added so much to the story and made you feel like you where in the time period.
I loved the twist that Melanie put so skillfully into this timeless classic story. I think the way she wrote this novel was just pure brilliance, because she knew what to keep from the story and what to leave out and replace with a little something of her own. She just wove the combination of the details from Cinderella and her own bits to make it all mesh together in a splendid way that really enhances the classic tale and makes you realize dreams do come true.
I also enjoyed how well developed the characters were, and their personalities. Especially Valten. He was just the perfect prince to me. He was extremely respectful and a hard worker, and had so many wonderful characteristics that would make any girl swoon. His character was so sturdy and he was just a hero. I also loved Gisela. I felt like I connected with her and felt her pain, but at the same time rejoiced in how she handled her hardships and found out in the end that her positivity in the difficult situation made her story end happily. I just loved how even when things weren't going so great, she wasn't at home complaining about it and had a good attitude towards it. In the end it paid off.
Overall I just adored this novel, and it was just a delight to read! I really, really hope that Melanie continues to bring us more fairy tale inspired novels, as they are just such fun to read! Although a bit unrealistic (as all fairy tales are) I loved all the action and adventure in this story, and was hardly able to put this book down. I'd highly recommend this novel to any teen girl who loves the classic Cinderella story!
// Madi's Book Review //
Oh. My. Gosh. It's finally here! I have been waiting for this book to release ever since its announcement. I love Melanie Dickerson! She's one of my favorite authors. I have read ALL of her books, and I adored them all. This is the fourth book that Melanie has written, and I sincerely hope there will be more to follow! The author's first book was a spin-off of Beauty And The Beast, her second book was a spin-off of Sleeping Beauty, her third book was a spin-off of Snow White, and her newest release (The Captive Maiden) is a spin-off of Cinderella! The best thing about these books is that though they are inspired by children's fairy tales, they are not at all childish. This is a wonderful series for teenage girls and females of all ages! I would like to point out before I go any further that though these books are all written princess style, and they have small connections and links between each novel, each of them can be read as a stand-alone book. Each book is about a completely different person, and you won't feel like you're missing out on something if you read them out of order. There might be the occasional reference about someone from another book, but for the most part the characters from each of the books, have very little contact with the others. So, basically, if you want to read one of these books really bad, but are afraid that you might miss something if you read it before another one by this author, don't be! That being said, lets continue.
I love the amount of time the author spent in making every little detail lovable. The evil step-mother, the back-stabbing-step-sisters, the prince in disguise, all these things and more added to the age old tale of "Cinderella", (or should I say, "Gisella"?).
Gisella is a young orphan girl. Her mother died when she was two, so she has little, to no memory of her, but her father didn't die until she was seven. Her father owned a horse business, and he passed down his love of horses to his little daughter. One day, the Duke and his eldest son came to purchase a horse for the young boy to ride in the jousting tournaments that he competed in, and Gisella never forgot him. When her step-mother would lock her in her room, or make her do chores that were unsuitable for such a young girl, or if her step-sisters were just making a nuisance of themselves, she would think of young Valten, and for a moment, she left behind reality and lived where dreams come true. Gisella grows up to be a very beautiful woman, both in appearance and in heart. Though she has next to nothing in material possessions, everyone adores her for the gracious heart that God gave and nurtured in her.
Valten is still stung from being jilted by his betrothed. It's not like he actually loved her or had feelings for her, because he had never met her, but the thought of losing her to his kid brother, Gabe, made him madder than a hornet. He was used to winning at everything and gaining whatever he desired, (not in a bratty, selfish way, but in a hardworking and deserving way). When he meets Gisella, his heart takes a turn, and he starts to think about things other than tournaments and politics. Maybe it was time he came back home for good, took a wife, and started learning at his father's side so that he would be prepared for the fate that the future held for him as Duke of Hagenheim.
Gisella and Valten go on many an adventure together, and they experience some close calls, but something about almost losing your life next to someone makes you bond like you could never imagine.
I know I say this a lot, but this is one of the best books that I have read all year, and I mean it. Sword fighting, romance, princess and plotting family members all contributed to making this novel a story worth reading. I read it in less than a day, and I know that I will definitely be reading it again in the future (which is saying something, because I rarely re-read books). I would recommend this book to anyone with a soft spot for medieval romances and historical fictions. I hope you will enjoy this book as much as I did!
N O T E :: We would like to sincerely thank Zondervan publishers for providing us both with an Advanced Reading Copy of The Captive Maiden for review purposes. We were not paid to w rite these reviews, and were not required to give a good review if we didn't like the book. All thoughts expressed in our reviews are completely honest and unbiased.
Born in the midst of the hardships of The Great Depression, Rose grew up in Berlin, Ohio, in the arms of a loving Amish family. But as she prepares to marry, she's thrown into confusion when she learns the truth of her birth. She was born Englisch and abandoned when the family moved on in search of work.
Was she meant to be Amish or would she have been better off growing up with her own kind---Englischers? And was her intended's gift of discovering her birth family given out of love or fear?
/ / Madi's Book Review / /
What a sweet way to start off the season! I know that Thanksgiving and Christmas are a while away yet, but this cooler weather is making me long for those lengthy winter days. A Christmas Gift For Rose was just the thing I needed to transition from Summer to Fall. Reading Christmas novellas is one of my favorite cool weather activities (right after highschool football - Go KACS Knights!). Christmas is my favorite holiday (I'm sure many of you feel the same way). I'm the kind of person that will sit on my coach wearing sweatpants in the middle of June to watch a Hallmark-Christmas-Movie-Marathon. I just can't get enough of it! Before you know it my family will be gathering around the fireplace, drinking hot chocolate. It gives me joy just to think about it! But I digress.
Rose was raised in an Amish home, and she loved every minute with her family. The only thing dimming her joy was her beau, Jonathan. The Amish believed war was wicked, and contributing to it was an unforgiveable transgression. When Jonathan ran off to enlist as a medic on the battlefield, Rose was crushed. Though he never shot a single bullet, he was still supporting battle, wasn't he? Rose wondered if he could ever be content to get back into his old Amish life-style after tasting a bit of the outside world. She dreaded anything that had to do with the English (non-Amish), and here was the man she had planned on marrying fighting with them!
Once Jonathan returned home, at first, Rose would have nothing to do with him. Though she still had feelings for him, she refused to let him be such a big part of her life again. Then one day that all changed. Rose found out something surprising about herself that made her take a step back and reconsider her views on English people. Had she been wrong? Could there be more to life than being a respected member of her community? Feeling like she didn't have a place in the world where she belonged, Rose started a journey toward peace and love.
~
I LOVED this book. L.o.v.e.d it. It's a short, cozy story that had me oblivious to the world, wondering what was going to happen next to dear Miss Rose. I don't know how much to say without spoiling it for those of you who plan on reading it in the near future, but let me just say this: this is one of the best Christmas novellas that I have ever read. I'm usually not too fond of novellas because most of the time I don't feel like I get the whole story in such a short span of time, but I had no such trouble with A Christmas Gift For Rose. Every moment was described wonderfully, every scene was played out to perfection, and I don't feel like I was missing some huge part of the story like I usually do when I read books this short. I can't wait to read more from Tricia Goyer! I've heard great things about her, but this is the first book of hers that I personally have had the chance to read. Well, let me just say, hopefully it won't be the last!
~Madi For The Literary Maidens
Note: I was provided with a free hardcopy of A Christmas Gift For Rose by the Litfuse Publicity group in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not paid to write this review, and all thoughts expressed are completely my own and totally unbiased.
Title: A Christmas Gift For Rose :: A Novella Author: Tricia Goyer
Source:Litfuse Publicity Group Review Copy from the Publisher Number of Pages: 192 Publisher: Zondervan Publication Date: September 24th, 2013 Bethany's Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
// Book Synopsis // "Rose turned her back on the man she loves after he assisted the Englisch during World War II—only to discover she’s an Englischer herself. Born in the midst of the hardships of The Great Depression, Rose grew up in Berlin, Ohio, in the arms of a loving Amish family. But she is overwhelmed by self-doubt when she learns that she was born Englisch and abandoned when her family moved West in search of work. Was she meant to be Amish or would she have been better off growing up with her own kind—Englischers? When the man she loves leaves her behind, Rose is certain he left for good. Yet Rose discovers sometimes our greatest gifts are the ones we fear."
// Bethany's Novella Review //
This was a short, yet sweet Christmas novella set in an Amish town and based on a true story, that is sure to be a delightful read accompanied by a warm fireside and a cup of cocoa, to read during the holiday season!
This was the first book that I've read by Tricia that she had written by herself (I read The Swiss Courier, which she authored with another author, Mike Yorkey), and I have to say I really liked it! It was a very sweet quaint story that really made me get excited about the upcoming holiday season!
Since this is a novella, it's shorter than a novel and the perfect size to read in a short amount of time. However don't let the size fool you as there is plenty of things going on. At first I though that since this story was so short, I wouldn't get a very good character development in the story. But I was pleasantly surprised when I read it, to find that this wasn't an issue at all, and actually the character development was quite well done. Main character Rose who is Amish, and the other characters too for that matter, were nicely developed in a short time, and I really felt like even though it was short, I got as much character development as I would have if it was a novel size. I loved seeing how Rose grew and dealt with her fears and anxieties, and loved the way the novella ended!
This novella is not only a sweet fireside read, but it's also got a wonderful message of feeling important and feeling like you belong. In the story Rose finds out that she wasn't born to an Amish family. She was adopted at a young age, when she was sick and her poor parents were unable to care for her and feed her. So they let their Amish next door neighbors adopt Rose, and she grew up with them. Now it's nearly Thanksgiving many years later, and she finds out that she isn't Amish and that the family she grew up with isn't her real family. Rose begins to doubt, and have second thoughts about being Amish, and feels out of place among the Amish community members who were born into an Amish home. Though she's always been loved and well cared for in the Amish family, she feels out of place and like she doesn't really belong. Top it all off with her strained relationship with the man she once though she'd marry, and Rose is overwhelmed with the fear of the unknown, and feeling like she fits in. However by the end of the story readers see that once Rose learns to trust the Lord and realize her identity in Him, everything seems to pan out in the end.
Overall I enjoyed this novella and would recommend it as a sweet, short Christmas read to get you into the holiday cheer.
N O T E :: I'd like to sincerely thank Tricia Goyer, Thomas Nelson publishers and Litfuse Publicity group for the opportunity to receive a complementary hardback copy of A Christmas Gift For Rose to read and review. I was not paid to review this novella, and all thoughts expressed in my review are completely honest and unbiased.
If you want to join the A Christmas Gift For Rose release fun, then be sure and check out Litfuse's fun giveaway!
{Note: I am not involved in this giveaway as far as sponsorship, but still wanted to let you all know about it.}
Title: The Fairest Beauty Author: Melanie Dickerson Source: Both ladies received a review copy from the publisher to review
Number of Pages: 323 ISBN: 0310724392 Publisher: Zondervan Publishing
Publication Date: January 2013 Bethany's Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Madi's Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
// Book Synopsis //
"A daring rescue. A difficult choice."
Sophie desperately wants to get away from her stepmother's jealousy, and believes escape is her only chance to be happy. Then a young man named Gabe arrives from Hagenheim Castle, claiming she is betrothed to his older brother, and everything twists upside down. This could be Sophie's one chance at freedom—but can she trust another person to keep her safe?
Gabe defied his parents Rose and Wilhelm by going to find Sophie, and now he believes they had a right to worry: the girl's inner and outer beauty has enchanted him. Though romance is impossible—she is his brother's future wife, and Gabe himself is betrothed to someone else—he promises himself he will see the mission through, no matter what.
When the pair flee to the Cottage of the Seven, they find help—but also find their feelings for each other have grown. Now both must not only protect each other from the dangers around them—they must also protect their hearts."
// Book Trailer //
// Bethany's Book Review //
Wow. Just wow. I LOVED this book! There were so many aspects of this book - so many little things that really added up - I just can't believe how wonderful this book was! Melanie has done it again and left a lasting mark on the classic Snow White fairytale, writing a novel even better than the original!
First off, I think it's super cool how Melanie re-writes well known fairytales and makes them even more amazing than the originals! I loved how The Fairest Beauty was heavily based on Snow White, yet it had some unique aspects that were very original and made this classical story even better. I liked how she kept the "evil" stepmother, knight in shining armor, and the seven dwarfs in the story but added the unique parts like the cross necklace and it's life saving scene, and how Lady Rose from The Healers Apprentice was incorporated at the end of the book.
Second of all, I just loved Sophie. Like a lot. I loved her sweet character and her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ even when she didn't know what He was doing or why she was going through hardships. My second favorite character was Gabe. What a hero. He was so respectful of Sophie and a true gentleman. Another note I'd like to add while I'm talking about the characters, is I liked how Melanie handled the evil witch in the original Snow White. I liked how she was actually a stepmother in the book, and how even though it was quite obvious that she was less than kind and very cruel, I liked how she wasn't made out to be a scary or spirit-filled witch. It was very obvious that she was the "bad girl" but we were spared nasty details and all that.
Another thing I adored about this book was how Christ was a part of the story. I loved all the Bible verses that characters brought up or quoted as well as the prayer and emphasis on making sure the marriage was according to God's will. I also loved how there was an emphasis on the family's blessing on the marriage, as that is something I see lacking in our culture today.
This book was so excited and a real adventure! I actually started it at 10 p.m. thinking I'd just start it and wasn't really planning on staying up late or reading a lot. Ha! Long story made short, I was up until midnight where I finally stopped after completing half of the book, and then it was only because my eyes were giving up on me! I just could not put it down! I kept telling myself "I'll just finish this last chapter" but it ended up being more like " I'll just hit the half-way mark." :) A total page-turner - the pages just flew by and I found it very easy to read and a great enjoyment. I would highly recommend this book to all fairytale lovers, as it's full of action, and has the essential Snow White details with a few nice extra touches, and has a nice Christian view and is in my opinion, a wonderful teen-fiction. Bravo, Melanie! I simply cannot wait for your next book The Captive Maiden to come out later this year!!
// Madi's Book Review //
I just finished this book a few minutes ago, so I'm still recovering. This book was FABULOUS. Melanie Dickerson is most definitely one of my top 5 favorite authors of all time. I loved how when Gabe was nursing Sophie's wound in the woods he mentioned the same healer from The Healers Apprentice. I love how there is always some small link between her princess spin-offs that connect them to each other. In fact, I believe her next book, which is a Cinderella spin-off, is about Gabe's brother, Valten. I really can't wait for The Captive Maiden to release. I've read all of Melanie's books so far, and they are all 6 out of 5 stars (but seriously). So far, all of Melanie's books are medieval times renditions of well known classical fairytales. The Merchants Daughter is a Beauty and the Beast spin-off, The Healers Apprentice covered Aurora (Sleeping Beauty), and The Fairest Beauty was Snow White. I don't know why someone didn't think of doing this sooner, but in my humble opinion, Melanie is a stinking genius. What better way to grip a teenage girls heart than with princes and princesses?! There is none.
Sophie doesn't know it, but she is a Duke's daughter. Born for wealth and prestige, she was raised as a kitchen maid. As if that wasn't bad enough, she is always being found guilty for some small transgression or another by Duchess Ermengard, the lady of the castle and Sophie's stepmother (though she doesn't know that at first). All her fellow servants adore her, and the only time she gets in trouble is when she is helping someone else. Sophie is the kind of woman that we should all strive to be: loving, kind, caring and forgiving of her enemies. But she is treated so cruelly that all she wants to do is to escape the walls that confine her. And through Gabeheart, she gets that chance.
Gabe, the second eldest son of his family, is known for being a bit irresponsible and flighty. He can only imagine the fame and respect he will get from rescuing his brothers betrothed while Valten lies in bed with a broken leg. He never expected to fall for Sophie . . .
I loved watching Gabe grow from a boy to a man, and Sophia from a mistreated maid to a lady of wealth and family. This story will tear your heart apart, so beware. It's so neat to watch Gabe go from young and irresponsible to trying his hardest to be the kind of man Sophie deserves. I love the respect and integrity that comes so naturally with the times of Sophie and Gabe, and I love being reminded how lucky I am to have the family that I have, and the things that I am blessed with. I love everything about this book. I couldn't find a single fault in it, and I'm not gonna try. If you have read any of my other book reviews here on TLM, you know that I'm a pretty tough critic when it comes to the the books that I read and the stuff that I put into my head, so this is saying a lot for Melanie's work. I HIGHLY recommend not only this book, but anything written by Melanie. She is a wonderful author, and she has quite a way with words. I hope that y'all will take our advice and go to your local library or bookstore and get one of Melanie's books. You won't regret it.
// The Giveaway //
Today we are so excited to be able to giveaway a copy of The Fairest Beauty, thanks to the wonderful team at Zondervan! To enter this giveaway, please use the RaffleCopter form below. Giveaway is open to the U.S. {Please no P.O. addresses} and will run until May 31st 2013. After this the winner will be contacted via email with a request to email us their mailing address so we can forward that to the Zondervan team to get the prize sent out. The winners name will also be announced on the RaffleCopter widget below after the giveaway ends and a winner is drawn at random using Random.org provided through RaffleCopter. As always, if you have any questions just leave a comment! We would like to sincerely thank Melanie Dickerson for writing this wonderful novel, as well as Charleen, Candice, and the rest of the Zondervan team for providing the giveaway copy! You guys have a great remainder of the weekend, and happy entering! =)
N o t e :: We were not paid to review The Fairest Beauty or giveaway a copy on this blog, and received a free copy of the book to read and review. All thoughts expressed in the reviews are our own and completely honest and unbiased.
