Not by Sight by Kate Breslin Book Review

// Not by Sight //

By Kate Breslin

Book Review by Bethany 

Book Synopsis:

Gripping Sophomore Novel from a Rising Historical Romance Talent

With Britain caught up in WWI, Jack Benningham, heir to the Earl of Stonebrooke, has declared himself a conscientious objector. Instead, he secretly works for the Crown by tracking down German spies on British soil, his wild reputation and society status serving as a foolproof cover.

Blinded by patriotism and concern for her brother on the front lines, wealthy suffragette Grace Mabry will do whatever it takes to assist her country's cause. When she sneaks into a posh London masquerade ball to hand out white feathers of cowardice, she never imagines the chain of events she'll set off when she hands a feather to Jack.

And neither of them could anticipate the extent of the danger and betrayal that follows them--or the faith they'll need to maintain hope.

 

// Book Review //

 

I had the pleasure of reading Kate Breslin's debut novel For Such A Time, and was really impressed with her lovely writing style and intriguing plot! I was was excited for the release of her second novel, Not by Sight, and enjoyed reading it!

I feel like I enjoyed For Such A Time a bit more than Not by Sight, mainly due to the the theme/plot, but still greatly enjoyed this new story. In some ways the characters reminded me of those in The Phantom of the Opera, which I'm sure the author probably used for inspiration when writing this novel. I think I enjoyed the first novel since I really enjoy war time novels and the Holocust which really tugs at my heart strings. This novel is also a war-time novel, but in a different setting and place. While the debut novel is set during World War II, Not by Sight in set during World War I.

I found the story-line and plot quite promising, however I felt as if maybe the story dragged along at points. While it was intriguing and exciting, I felt like there might could have been more happening. I guess it really depends on you personal preference. However I did really enjoy seeing the character development throughout the novel, especially with Clare. 

Overall, I enjoyed this novel, and while not a favorite, still one I'd recommend! I give it 3 out of 5 stars, and would recommend it to war-time novel enthusiasts. 

Disclaimer: I received a complementary copy of Not by Sight from the publisher, for the sole purpose of this review. I was not paid to write this review, all thoughts expressed are completely my own, unbiased honest opinion.

Luther & Katharina by Jody Hedlund Book Review

// Luther & Katharina //

By Jody Hedlund

Book Synopsis:

Katharina von Bora has seen nothing but the inside of cloister walls since she was five. In a daring escape, Katharina finds refuge with Martin Luther and seeks his help to pair her with the noble, wealthy husband she desires.

As class tensions and religious conflicts escalate toward the brink of war, Martin Luther believes that each day could be his last and determines he will never take a wife.

As the horrors of the bloody Peasant War break out around them, the proud Katharina and headstrong Martin Luther fight their own battle for true love, in one of the greatest love stories of history.

More Info

Author Bio

// Bethany's Book Review //

Katharina von Bora, a runaway nun, finds shelter with Martin Luther a munk, who helps her to find homes to work for and live in. Martin Luther helps her to rebuild her life after the only one she's ever known as a nun, and much to the discouragement of others, promotes nuns leaving their solitary lives to get married and start families of their own. As time progresses this is made obvious as he grows fond of Katharina, and she of him. The marry, and work together as a team to begin the protestant reformation to further the name of Christ, providing a prime example of marriage and working together for the Lord.

I've always had a deep fascination with Martin Luther, and his story! Being a Reformed Presbyterian, Martin Luther is a huge part of my church history, and I always enjoy any opportunity to learn more about him and his life!

Prior to reading this book, I honestly didn't know much about Katharina von Bora Luther. I'd heard about her, and knew of her as the Reformer Martin Luther's wife; but aside from that I didn't know much else. I was so excited to read this book, and found that Katharina and Martin Luther's love story was so fascinating and interesting!

Jody Hedlund has always been one of my favorite historical fiction authors because of all the research she puts into each novel. I always feel like I not only enjoy a great, exciting story, but also learn the equivalent of a history lesson in a non-boring setting! I certainly wasn't disappointed with this novel of hers, and was so excited to get to learn the Luther's story! I'd definitely recommend this novel to all fans of historical fiction, as well as those interested in the Protestant Reformation and Martin Luther!

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of Luther & Katharina from Blogging for Books, for the purpose of this review. I was not paid to write this review, and all thoughts expressed are my own unbiased honest opinions. 

A Worthy Pursuit by Karen Witemeyer Book Review

// A Worthy Pursuit //

 

By Karen Witemeyer

 

Book Review Written By Bethany

Book Synopsis:
 Stone Hammond is the best tracker in Texas. He never comes home empty-handed. So when a wealthy railroad investor hires him to find his abducted granddaughter, Stone eagerly accepts.

Charlotte Atherton, former headmistress of Sullivan’s Academy for Exceptional Youths, will do anything to keep her charges safe, especially the little girl entrusted to her care after her mother’s death. Charlotte promised Lily’s mother she’d keep the girl away from her unscrupulous grandfather, and nothing will stop Charlotte from fulfilling that pledge. Not even the handsome bounty hunter with surprisingly honest eyes who comes looking for them.

When the teacher he’s after produces documentation that shows she’s the little girl’s legal guardian, Stone must reevaluate everything he’s been led to believe. Is Miss Atherton villain or victim? She acts more like a loving mother than an abductress, and the children in her care clearly adore her. Should Stone break his perfect record?

Then a new danger threatens, and Charlotte is forced to trust the man sent to destroy her. Stone becomes determined to protect what he once sought to tear apart. Besides, he’s ready to start a new pursuit: winning Charlotte’s heart.

 

// Bethany's Book Review //

 

Anyone who has been reading my book reviews for a while now, will know that Karen Witemeyer is hands-down one of my favorite authors, and has been for some time. So obviously I was rather thrilled when I learned she had a new book coming out, and eagerly read it as soon as I received it in the mail! I'm so glad that I did, as this book is a very exciting one that I'm glad to be adding to my collection of Karen's books, in their designated place on my shelf.

 

Karen Witemeyer is known for her fun-loving, western themed novels, full of strong female characters and a humorous western feel, and this book didn't fall short of those standards! This book definitely had those traits that I've come to love in Witemeyer's writing style, and I absolutely enjoyed every page of this novel! Due to a very busy schedule with my work, I wasn't sure how quickly I'd be able to finish this book, but I quickly found that I had the hardest time putting it down, which is always a plus! The story was very funny, and moved along at a steady pace, making me not want to close it!

 

As always, I fell in love with Witemeyer's characters. I loved how she included some children as main characters in this book, and enjoyed the aspect of the other character's personalities that they brought out. The story itself was very engaging and quite an adventure, sure to please any proud

Texan with the western theme!

 

I'd highly recommend this book to all fans of Witemeyer's novels, or fans of western historical fiction, as this one is sure to not disappoint!

 

D I S C L A I M E R :: I received a complementary copy of A Worthy Pursuit from the publisher, for the sole purpose of this review. I was not paid to write this review, and all thoughts expressed are completely my own and unbiased.