REMEMBER ME by TRACIE PETERSON

Publication date 7/3/23

REMEMBER ME by TRACIE PETERSON is an historical romance novel that takes place in Seattle at the time of the Alaska-Yukom-Pacific Exposition 

in 1909. The story is exciting,  the characters and their struggles  are well portrayed, and there is a strong Christian message of redemption, forgiveness of sins and restoration on which it is based. 

We see how Adeline Bryant escapes her abusive brothers in Dawson City and ends up with the godly Fisher family in Seattle, in charge of the Camera Girls, taking family photos and selling Brownie cameras at the Exposition. She not only comes across Isaac Fisher , to whom she was engaged before her brothers sold her to a brothel owner in Dawson City, but also the dreaded brothers…….

The story is realistically brutal in parts and we get a good idea of what the pioneers went through on the Oregan Trail. In contrast we see the goodness of God who can bring good out of all things.

I found Remember Me interesting and inspirational and cannot recommend it highly enough to anyone who enjoys this genre.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

THE WORDS WE LOST by NICOLE DEESE

Publication date 11/4/23

THE WORDS WE LOST by NICOLE DEESE is a beautifully written romance novel with very real characters and a strong Christian message. The plot is well laid out and kept me interested from beginning to end. It is a story about friendship, family dynamics, dealing with grief and unconditional love, set in the small town of Port Townsend where the Campbell family own the prestigious Campbell Hotel. This is an inspirational book that will stay with you,  and it is one that I look forward to reading again.

Ingrid Erikson is an editor with Fog Harbor in Los Angeles. She has lost her ability to concentrate on what she is reading since suffering traumatic loss, and is leaning heavily on her intern, Chip, so as not to lose her job. She has only one chance of keeping it -  she needs to  find Cecelia Campbell’s unpublished novel that finishes off the popular Nocturnal Heart Series……

I like to see the friendship between Cece, her cousn Joel Campbell and Ingrid, who has found the family and friendship she has always longed for in the Campbell family.

I cannot recommend The Words We Lost highly enough 

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

CODE NAME EDELWEISS by STEPHANIE LANDSEM

Publication date 7/3/23

CODE NAME EDELWEISS by STEPHANIE LANDSEM is based on what happened in 1933 in San Fransisco when the Nazis tried to take over the Hollywood studios in order to advertise anti Semitism and literally take over America for Hitler. Most Americans at the time were more worried about survival and the effects of the Great Depression than what was going on in Europe, and many chose to look the other way.

Leon Mayer was a Jewish lawyer who chose to do something about the situation. His motto was adopted from the sayings of a Jewish rabbi, “If not me, who? If not now, when?” He and his group of spies infiltrated Nazi strongholds such as the Friends of New Germany, showing extraordinary courage.

The story starts with Liesl Weiss, who literally grew up at the MGM studios, losing her job as a secretary there. She is desperate to find employment and accepts a job spying for Leon Lewis, working as a secretary at the Friends of New Germany, where she works for the lecherous Hermann Schwinn, his wife Thekla, Hans Winterhalder and the enigmatical Wilhelm Otto, whose military bearing really scares her. Her code name is Edelweiss and it is her job to look for evidence of treason whilst keeping up a facade of loyalty to the cause. We also follow another spy who goes by the code name Thirteen…….

Liesl is ashamed of her treatment of her best friend Miriam Stahr and her family, and hates being alienated from them. She is lonely and feels abandoned by her husband Tomas who disappeared without a trace, leaving her to support their two children, her mother and rebellious younger brother Fritz. I like to see her growing faith as she cries out to the Lord, and how she chooses to put others before herself.

This story about the incredible courage shown by a small group of people really touched me, and I cannot recommend this excitng and inspirational book highly enough.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Tyndale House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

IN LOVE’S TIME by KATE BRESLIN

Publication date 22/1/23

IN LOVE’S TIME is another beautifully written WW1 novel by KATE BRESLIN, with a poignant love story, which seems doomed by circumstances, a nail biting plot and a strong Christian message, mainly that of trusting God and one another. I literally could not put the book down.

Captain Sir Marcus Weaherford, who works at the Admiralty in London and goes on top secret and highly dangerous missions, has a motto, namely, “Duty and love do not mix”. It is on one such mission in Russia with the beautiful Natalya Bryce that he receives a head injury which causes retrograde amnesia.

Clare Danner, who was expecting his proposal only to see him propose to another, goes to the Weatherford mansion in Hampshire to nurse him, hoping he will remember her and her daughter Daisy before she loses her precios little girl for the second time……

There is treachery, jealousy, a missing spy and a mole in the Admiralty, together with the Bolshevik uprising in Russia, which all makes for a thrilling read.

The author has obviously done a great deal of research into this period of history and this, together with her understanding of human emotions, makes up a most enjoyable historical romance novel. In fact I cannot recommend In Love’s Time highly enough.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

PRETTY LITTLE PIECES by CARMEN SCHOBER

Publication date 6/12/22

PRETTY LITTLE PIECES by CARMEN SCHOBER is a beautifully written romance novel with a strong Christian message of redemption and restoraion, unforgettable characters and a great love story. As Savannah says of her sister Georgina’s relationship with Cassidy, “Its like your feelings for each other take up actual physical space.” 

When Georgina Havoc comes to Tarragon from Nashville with her best friend Poppy to try and build her own career after being let down by her partner and boyfriend Lance Broussard, she is broken but determined to succeed. I like the way the very pregnant Poppy stands by her through thick and thin as they have one delay and potential disaster after another, as Lance does his best to ruin things for Georgina. When Georgie’s twin sister leaves rehab and comes to Tarragon it seems like the last straw.

Cassidy Stokes had an illustrious army career as a sniper and wants to use his talents in order to make a difference in El Salvador. He  turned to drink when his wife died and is a work in progress, having turned to the Lord for His help.

It is a story about two people coming from very different family backgrounds, with very different lives and dreams for the future…..

I am not going t tell you any more as I do not want to spoil the read for you.

I cannot recommend Pretty Little Pieces highly enough. It is a book that I will definitely read more than once.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

THE WIDOW’S SECRET by KATE HEWITT

Publication date 17/11/22

THE WIDOW’S SECRET is the fourth novel in the Goswell Quartet by KATE HEWITT. The series is well finished off with two stories, one in the eighteenth century where we follow the life of Abigail Fenton, and one in the present where we follow Rachel Gardener. The book is exciting and inspirational and deals with subjects such as marriage and family relationships, and the horrors of the slave trade. It is a story about love, compassion, courage and redemption, with a strong Christian message running through it.

Rachel is a marine archeologist who goes back to Cumbria, where she had a lonely childhood after her father died, in order to investigate a ship wreck off Whitehaven. There is not much left of the ship, but when part of a speculum oris is found it seems that it was a slaver, and when part of a man’s gold watch is found it leads to her interest in Abigail Fenton and her husband James.

I like the way Jane Hatton, who is always fascinated in uncovering a mystery, befriends the lonely and confused Rachel, whose unloving relationship with her mother and hero worship of her father, are having a bad effect on her marriage to the good natured chef, Anthony. 

Running parallel is the story of Abigail’s difficult marriage….

It is a really worthwhile read and I highly recommend it, together with the first three books in the series, although it can easily stand alone.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bookouture. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

THE CAIRO CURSE by PEPPER BASHAM

Publication date 1/2/23

In THE CAIRO CURSE by PEPPER BASHAM we come across the delightful Lord and lady Astley, Frederick  Grace, from The Mistletoe Countess, who have survived the first few months of marriage, which so far has been fraught with danger, and are now on their honeymoon. Instead of going straight to Venice as planned, they start out in Egypt where they join  Freddie’s cousin Georgia and her boorish husband Sydney, on an archeological expedition. Grace, whose head is full of facts she has researched on camels, pyramids, pharaohs and mummies, couldn’t be happier. Her favourite things are “bookish conversations,, life-threatening adventures” and the “wonderfully romantic gestures” of her beloved husband, her very own “handsome hero”,  in her fairy tale life which follows hard after the lives of her favourite fictional characters. This young woman, who is full of love, imagination, compassion, and faith in God, is definitely not a “proper” lady and sees herself as an amateur detective, has become one of my favourite fictional characters, together with her once morose and broken husband, Lord Astley. She is very amusing and is only too happy to make people laugh.

This book has everything you need for a delightful and thrilling read - suspense, murder, curses, betrayal, pyramids and tombs, thieves,  camel rides, romance, and some most unscrupulous characters. Running through the story there is also a strong Christian message of redemption.

I cannot recommend The Cairo Curse strongly enough. 

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Barbour Publishing. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

ON MY HONOR by PATTY SMITH HALL

Publication date 1/12/22

I really enjoyed ON MY HONOR by PATTY SMITH HALL and highly recommend this novel, first of all for the strong Christian message running through it and the way the main characters hold onto their faith in this traumatic time, also for their courage in facing the danger that has come to the Outer Banks, and for their loyalty and service to their country. The book forms part of the Heroines of WW11 collection and it is easy to see why, as we follow Ginny Mathis and her younger sister Belle, together with the rest of the Girl Scouts, on their quest to do their duty to their country. I like the friendship amongst the girls and Belle’s relationship with Ginny, who is also her Girl Scout leader. There are many secrets and there is much intrigue as they befriend Tim Elliot, a reporter and M6 operative who is washed ashore, and try to help him find Rolf Schmidt, whose knowledge of Germany’s attacks in the Atlantic could save lives and even shorten the war……

The book is full of thrilling adventure, sweet romance and unforgettable characters.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Barbour Publishing. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

WHAT I WOULD TELL YOU by LIZ TOLSMA

Punlication date 1/1/23

WHAT I WOULD TELL YOU by LIZ TOLSMA is a beautifully written dual timeline historical romance novel which takes place in Salonika from 1941 to 1943 during the German occupation of Greece, and in 2019 in Pittsburg and Thessaloniki (formerly Salonika). The author has obviously done a great deal of research into the horrors perpetrated towards the Greek Jews at that time, some of whom had already fled from persecution in Spain. This book is a must read for those of us who honour God’s chosen people.
It is a story of courage and sacrificial love, as we follow Mathilda Nissim and her beloved husband Asher’s experiiences  during WW11. Mathilda continues to write her newspaper in secret, encouraging the Jews to stand up and fight. their oppressors. Whilst it is horrific to think of man’s inhumanity towards his fellow man during the Holocaust, the author reminds us that anti-Semitism is still very active in the world.
 I like to see how their friends Ioanna and Petrus do all they can to help Mathilda and Asher, at great risk to themselves, and how they share their food and faith with them. 
When Tessa Payson finds out through a genetic test  that she has Sephardic Jewish blood and that she and her cousin Riley are not related, she gets on a plane against her mother and stepfather’s wishes and flies to Thessaloniki to find out the truth about her ancestry and her faith.
I like the strong Christian message on which the book is based, and the way the author, through her characters, shows how Christians and Jews serve the same God, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Tessa’s friend Giannis says to her when she has questions about which religion she needs to follow now, that she can be both a Christian and a Jew, like he is, and that Jesus the Messiah was also a Jew.
The two time lines run together well with Mathilda’s diary holding them together.
Family relationhips, particularly the special bond between a mother and her child, play a big part in the characters’ lives  Things are not as they seem and secrets are kept in order to not cause pain. Tessa’s search for the  truth about her heritage leads her on an exciting journey, but it is one her mother would rather she did not take. 
It is a story of hope and new beginnings, and one I cannot recommend highly enough.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from  Barbour Publishing. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

WREATHED IN DISGRACE by ROBIN PATCHEN

WREATHED IN DISGRACE is the 10th novel in the Coventry Saga series by ROBIN PATCHEN, but, as is the case with all her books, it can easily stand alone.

Denise Masters, who was married to Reid Cote, is back in Coventry just before Christmas, hoping to stay  in her newly acquired house for a few months to spend quality time with her eight year old daughter Ella. Reid, who hates her for deserting him and their baby girl to follow her acting career, is not happy with her arrival, especially as she has attracted a shooter. 

Jon Donley and his team of bodyguards is sent by her agent to guard her. Jon’s cousin Lake stays with Reid and his new wife, Jacqui, to guard Ella. When Denise starts getting  messages about the “starlet slayings”, things get really exciting…..

There is a strong theme of family and relationships running through the book. I like to see how Denise’s relationship with her daughter  takes off and the way the little girl loves and accepts all her family,  including Jacqui’s parents. Reid is obviously a good father, although he is understandably over protective. 

There is a really good Christian message of the forgiveness and acceptance we have in Christ, and the everlasting life He  gives to  those who turn to Him in repentance. We are reminded that it is only His opinion of us that counts, not what others think or say about us.

The plot is exciting and will keep you on the edge of your chair. The characters are unforgettable and we are drawn into their lives and emotions. 

I cannot recommend Wreathed in Disgrace highly enough and am looking forward to the next novel in the series.

BENEATH HIS SILENCE by HANNAH LINDER

 Publication date 1/11/22

BENEATH HIS SILENCE by HANNAH LINDER is a beautifully writen regency romance novel, with interesting characters, romance, mystery, suspense, secrets, and a strong Christian message running through the story.

Ella Pemberton leaves her family home, Abbington Hall, to travel to Northston in order to continue her dead father’s quest to prove that Lord Sedgewick of Wickhorn Manor murdered her sister Lucy, who was married to him.

Ella has always been the feisty sister whereas Lucy was quiet and good. Ella bravely approaches Lord Sedgewick and applies for the position of governess to his son Peter, and promptly falls in love with the dear little boy. She is astonished at Lord Sedgewick’s kindness to those in need, his close relationship with Peter, and his faith in God.

Henry Sedgewick has been hurt by the women in his life, starting with his unloving mother, and this together with the guilt he feels after Lucy’s death, turns to hatred. He feels safe in that dark cocoon until Ella comes into his life. Will he learn to forgive and come out of his self-imposed prison?…….

This is a lovely story and one I cannot recommend highly enough to anyone who enjoys this genre. I found it most enjoyable, gripping and inspirational.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Barbour Publishing. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

ESCAPE FROM AMSTERDAM by LAURALEE BLISS

Publication date 1/9/22

ESCAPE FROM AMSTERDAM by LAURALEE BLISS is the beautiful story of a young couple, Helen Smit and Erik Minger, who put their lives on the line to save three Jewish children from the Nazis. I guarantee that this book, part of the Heroines of WW11 series, and  based on what really happened during the war, will touch your heart. 

Helen, who “wanted to share everything she knew with the eager minds of children,” becomes a teacher at a creche after graduating from the Teachers’ College of Amsterdam, working with Jewish children under Miss Pimental. With the Germans annexation of Holland the schouwburg across the road becomes a holding centre for Jewish families awaiting relocation to the camps. As the situation becomes worse daily, Helen and  Erik grow closer to one another and also to the Lord. Erik encourages Helen to not give in to fear because “Fear breeds power in others. Don’t give them an opportunity.” What I particularly like to see is the way this young couple live out their Christian faith daily, never missing an oortunity to share Jesus with others, especially the children in their care. Other strong characters are Ephraim and Delia Visser who also are prepared to lay down their lives for others.

This book is about the sacrificial love, faith and tremendous courage shown by ordinary Dutch citizens in the face of the unbelievable atrocities perpetrated against the Jews during the German occupation of Holland, and I cannot recommend it highly enough.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Barbour Publishing. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

UNDER THE STARRY SKIES BY TRACIE PETERSON

Publication date 4/10/22

UNDER THE STARRY SKIES is the third novel in the Love on the Santa Fe series by TRACIE PETERSON.. As is the case with all this author’s books, there is a strong Christian message running through it with relevant scriptures, which I really love. The plot is exciting and the characters are unforgettable. I particularly like the way we are taken into Cassie and Brandon’s emotions and see how they deal with past fears and guilt, and the very real fear of the future, with faith in God. 

Starting in 1916, with WW1 in full swing and with the Santa Fe railway lines in New Mexico being sabotaged, Brandon is on the alert, especially when Cyrus McCutchen, the man he suspects of being responsible for Cassie’s father’s death, comes back on the scene.

Family dynamics, the lust for revenge, pride and  broken relationships are some of the subjects that are addressed, as opposed to unconditional love, resposiilbility, friendship and godly living.

I cannot recommend Under the Starry Skies highly enough to anyone who enjoys inspirational historical romance.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

THE BRIDE OF BLACKFRIARS LANE by MICHELLE GRIEP

Publication date 1/9/22

THE BRIDE OF BLACKFRIARS LANE is the second novel in the Blackfriars Lane series by MICHELLE GRIEP  Rich in descriptions of London in the 1800’s, especially the seedier parts, and rich in unforgettable characters, some more to be trusted than others, full of suspense and surprises, and with a strong Christian message running through it, this book has all that you need for a truly enjoyable read. I also love the humourous banter, especially between Kit Turner and her fiance, Inspector Jackson Forge, who watch each others’ backs in the crime ridden streets of London.

When Kit’s independent streak causes her to miss her wedding and infuriates Jackson, she fails to listen to  her friend Martha who advises her to show humility and apologise to him because “Pride preserves yerself, humility preserves yer relationship.” Her father says to her, “You never know what good God will birth out of the darkness, Daughter.” I like to see how Kit talks to God so naturally and really wants to be free of pride and become someone Jackson can trust. After being alone on the streets for so long she loves the thought of becoming part of Jackson’s family, which does not seem to be likely to happen any more.

Add to all this, findng the body of a woman who has been dead for twenty four years, digging up stolen property while working incognito in a dust yard, and escaping someone who wants you dead, and you have a real page turner.

I cannot recommend The Bride of Blackfriars Lane highly enough.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Barbour Publishing.The opinions in this review are completely my own.

THE HIDDEN PRINCE by TESSA AFSHAR

Publication date 8/11/22

I cannot recommend THE HIDDEN PRINCE by TESSA AFSHAR highly enough for the gripping story which is filled with biblical truth that leads to the promise of the coming Redeemer. I love the Scripture verses heading up each chapter, many from Proverbs and Jeremiah, and completely in tune with Keren and Jared’s journeys as they work out God’s purpose for them and as He gives them the strength to carry on. Jeremiah 29:11, that speaks of the Lord’s perfect plan for our lives, comes out very strongly.

I love the descriptions of life in Babylon and of Keren living and learning in Daniel’s household, and of her journey to Media where she meets the delightful Artadates, the chief shepherd’s son, who is to play such a big part in her and Jared’s lives……

There is a wicked king, of which it is said, “Unpredictable humans with unlimited power should play no part in any sane person’s life,”  which description also fits Jared’s wicked father.

I am not going to tell you any more for fear of spoiling things for you. I always look forward to this author’s books and The Hidden Prince definitely does not disappoint! This is a novel that I will definitely read more than once!

I was given a copy of the book by NetGalley from Tyndale House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

A GEM OF TRUTH by KIMBERLEY WOODHOUSE

Publication date 20/9/22

A GEM OF TRUTH is the second novel in the Secrets of the Canyon series by KIMBERLEY WOODHOUSE. It is a delightful read with some wonderful characters and is full of excitement, adventure and romance. The story takes place at the El Tovar Harvey House Hotel at the Grand Canyon in 1907. As with The Great Divide, the magnificent scenery is beautifully described. I cannot wait for the third book in the series.

Julia Schultz lost her infamous parents at the age of eight, and, except for a few weeks of being loved and cared for by adoptive parents before they too died, she had a dreadful childhood which led to her making up fabulous stories which made her feel like someone important rather than the lonely orphan who no one wanted.

She is hoping to start afresh at El Tovar, and, apart from a slip up when she first arrives, makes a conscious decision to only tell the truth.

Chris Miller, a jeweller in Williams, is fascinated by the beautiful red haired Harvey Girl. He is excited about the treasure she has found and goes into partnership with her, hoping to get enough money to buy his shop. With the importance he places on honesty and always speaking the truth, what will he do when he hears about her past?……..

There is a strong Christian message with many scriptures about the  love of Christ and His sacrifice on the cross woven into the story. The truth of “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends,” comes out strongly. We see redemption, repentance, forgiveness and sacrificial love shown amongst those of the characters who choose the Lord’s ways.

I highly recommend tis lovely book to anyone who enjoys Christian historical romance.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

LOVE AND THE DREAM COME TRUE by TAMMY L GRAY

Pulication date 2/8/22

LOVE AND THE DREAM COME TRUE is the third novel in the State of Grace series by TAMMY L GRAY but it  can easily stand alone, although I suggest you read the first two books as well for sheer pleasure. It is a story of broken people with broken dreams, but there is a strong message of hope and restoration.

Cameron Lee, who has achieved fame in the music world, is now washed out and has no music left in him. He frequently has panic attacks, the most recent of which he has at his sister Cassie’s wedding when he comes face to face with Darcy, the love of  his life, and her husband Bryson, who stole her from him. This attack is witnessed by Morgan, Lexie Walters’ thirteen year old daughter. Lexie has had a crush on Cameron since she was a teenager and fantasizes about him falling in love with her. Lexie, who has had a difficult life herself, is the eternal optimist as opposed to Cam’s pessimism. The difference is largely due to her trust in God whereas his faith seems to be a thing of the past…..

Love and the Dream Come True is a most enjoyable and inspirational read with unforgettable characters and a deep Christian message of forgiveness, unconditional love and redemption. 

I cannot recommend this lovely book highly enough.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

LIKE THE WIND by ROBIN LEE HATCHER

Publication date 29/11/22

LIKE THE WIND by ROBIN LEE HATCHER is a time split novel in which Millie in the 1930’s, and Olivia Ward and her formerly estranged daughter Emma in present time, are asking the age old question, “God do You really care about me and what I am going through?” Millie’s old  journal, in which she has written down her feelings and prayers, really speaks to Emma in her situation.

When Olivia’s controlling ex husband Daniel dies in a car crash leaving Emma destitute, Olivia’s dream of having her fifteen year old daughter back in her life is brought to pass, but not without tension, due to the lies Daniel has told Emma about her mother not wanting her. Things change for the better when Emma, who is passionate about acting, is invited to join the Bethlehem Springs Mountain Theater group and makes some friends, who also attend Cornerstone church.

Tyler Murphy, who went from one bad foster home to another, works as an investigator for a law firm where he looks into situations where children could end up being abused, or who are already being abused. Peter Ward, Daniel’s father, employs Tyler to find our all about Olivia to see if she is the unfit mother his son made her out to be…….

This is a story about rejection, family dynamics and hardship, where the characters come to see that Christ is our only security, and, as we see in Mark chapter four, He is in the boat with us as we cross to the other side. 

I really enjoyed Like the Wind for the relevant scriptures on which the story is based and the way the author takes us into the very real emotions of her unforgettable characters. I cannot recommend the book highly enough.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Thomas Nelson. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

LINEAGE OF CORRUPTION by ROBIN PATCHEN

LINEAGE OF CORRUPTION is another great romantic suspense novel by ROBIN PATCHEN which takes place in Coventry. I always look forward to this author’s books and I am never disappointed. Although such subjects as abortion, political corruption, jealousy and betrayal are brought out, the book is not at all heavy, in fact there is some humour in parts of the story.

Josie Harrington changes her surname to Smith, leaves the stressful political scene, her mother and senator father, her ex-fiancé Bentley Kent and her best friend Ellie Sanders, and moves to Coventry, hoping no one will find out who she really is. She is happy running her coffee shop and finds baking therapeutic, especially after all she has gone through. 

It is not long before Bentley arrives on the scene, hoping to win her back. They go on a hike which turns out to be disastrous, excepting that she is saved by Thomas Wyndham, the handsome insurance agent who volunteers with search and rescue. Thomas is running for mayor, but, although Josie is a brilliant political strategist, she is hesitant to help in his campaign. She is wary of alpha males, having been surrounded by them in the political arena, and wants to stay away from anything that could compromise her new life. However, someone has found out who she is, is using intimidation and will stop at nothing to try and make her father go against his convictions……

I highly recommend Lineage of Corruption as an exciting and inspirational read, with interesting characters, a nail biting plot, and a strong Christian message of redemption and restoration. I guarantee you will not be able to put the book down. 

COME DOWN SOMEWHERE by JENNIFER L WRIGHT

Publication date 6/9/22

COME DOWN SOMEWHERE by JENNIFER L WRIGHT is the poignant story of two young girls who meet at school in Alamogordo in New Mexico in 1944, both feeling the effects of rejection by their families, 
In spite of their differences, with Jo Hawthorne’s Christian faith and Olive Alexander’s rejection of God, they become friends when Olive realizes that Jo’s loneliness and difficult situation is every bit as bad as her own. We see how the war affects everybody and everything, especially with the military base in the area and the way the government takes over farms to house those involved in secret military activities, especially  in the development of the bomb that wiped out Hiroshima and changed the nature of warfare forever. We see the infiltration of communism and Russian spies, even amongst American citizens.
The story moves seamlessly between 1945 and 1952, with many twists and turns, including the bomb which explodes at Trinity causing long lasting disease and death.
In 1952 we see a disillusioned Jo who has allowed bitterness and pain to come between her and God, and between her and her dying father. Finding Olive, who she looks upon as her sister, but who she feels has also let her down, leads to finding truth at last, but also danger …………
I love the way the author expresses the characters’ emotions and the strong Christian message of redemption, forgiveness and restoration. We see how hard it is to feel Christ’s presence and even how hard it is to pray when harbouring bitterness, hatred and resentment. We see broken people trying to make sense out of life, as well as those who use and betray others.  We see walls going up and sometimes walls going down. We also see the results of choices that are made, both nationally and personally.
There is some wonderful imagery which backs up the truth of God’s word running through the book.
Come Down Somewhere is beautifully written and a most worthwhile read. Although it is heart breaking in parts, there is a strong promise of hope running through the book. and I found it thought provoking and inspirational.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley fromTyndale House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

THE HEART OF THE MOUNTAINS by PEPPER BASHAM

Publication date 1/7/22

THE HEART OF THE MOUNTAINS by PEPPER BASHAM is a beautifully written historical romance novel which takes place in the Blue Ridge Mountains in 1919. I love the characters and the strong Christian message. The story is set after WW1 and we see the often fatal effects the war has on so many people.

Jeb McAdams overcomes his memories of the battlefields by keeping busy. He is a family man, strong and capable, with a subtle sense of humour. Cora Taylor finds him calming, especially when he saves her life on several occasions. She has also gone through a great deal during the war as a nurse on the battlefields of France, but nothing has prepared her for the adventures she will have in this harsh and dangerous land. She longs to help the people with her nursing skills and to learn from them, especially from Granny Burcham, but “Nurse Woman” is looked upon with suspicion by some of the fiercely superstitious inhabitants.

Both she and Jeb are determined to live well in this hard place, and as Jeb says, “Maybe we can’t choose our hard, but I reckon we can choose how to live with it in the right way.” 

It is a story about second chances, healing, restoration, forgiveness and the redemption of lost souls. We are reminded that God’s plans are best and that He can bring good out of any situation. A quotation I like from Cora is: “ From what the Bible says, we are all broken, Willa, and that is why we need a rescuer.” 

There is plenty of adventure and beauty in these mountains and the story is not only enjoyable but also inspirational. I highly recommend The Heart of the Mountains to anyone who enjoys this genre.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Barbour Publishing. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

 

BY WAY OF THE MOONLIGHT by ELIZABETH MUSSER

Publication date 2/8/22

BY WAY OF THE MOONLIGHT by ELIZABETH MUSSER is a beautifully written novel in which the author’s Christian beliefs form a strong foundation for the main characters in the story. I also love the horse theme and the fact that each horse has its own character and is cherished by its owner.

Allie Massey has always had a close relationship with her feisty grandmother, Nana Dale, which is largely based on their love of horses. This leads to Allie’s determination to carry out her grandmother's dream of turning Hickory Hills into an equine healing centre. This hope is dashed when Nana Dale’s will is read.

Allie digs deep to uncover Nana Dale’s well hidden secrets. The author moves easily between the present day and the 1930’s and war years, gradually uncovering the mysteries of the past and giving us insight into the characters’ emotions.

This book, with its wonderful cast of characters, touches on so many topics such as dysfunctional relationships between mothers and daughters, forgiveness, being thankful for what one has rather than wishing for the next thing, an answered prayer which brings encouragement to many, WW11 and the Battle of the Atlantic where the Sand Pounders patrol the coast, and so much more, including some heartwarming romance.

i highly recommend By Way of the Moonlight as an enjoyable and inspirational read.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

LIFEMARK by CHRIS FABRY

Publication date 23/8/22

The message that came through strongly to me in LIFEMARK by CHRIS FABRY is, that not only is nobody a mistake, but also that God can take our failures and turn them into a message of redemption and grace. Lifemark is a book that will really touch your heart as you follow the life of David Colton, which so very nearly didn’t happen, and the effect of this life on his birth and adoptive parents, his best friend Nate and all those who hear David speak about his experience and who watch the documentary filmed by Nate. As David says, “Our stories are given to us to steward. And we can decide to keep them hidden or release them into the world.”

I love the honesty of the characters and the way the author takes us through the fears and emotions which lead to the choices they make. We see courage, forgiveness, gratitude, unselfishness and sacrificial love, together with the redemptive love of Christ, shining through the story.

I highly recommend Lifemark as a heartwarming and inspirational read.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Tyndale House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

A FEELING OF HOME by SUSAN ANNE MASON

Publication date 7/7/22

A FEELING OF HOME is the third novel in the Redemption’s Light series by SUSAN ANNE MASON. It is a lovely read with exceptional characters whose emotions are very real, and with a strong Christian message of grace, forgiveness and redemption on which the novel is based. We are reminded that everyone is precious in the sight of God. The subject of what finding a home entails is beautifully brought out by the author.
The story takes place in 1944 in Toronto. The Bennington Maternity Home and its owners, Ruth and Olivia, play a big part in the story. Although the book can stand alone, I suggest you read the second novel for pure enjoyment and in  order to get more background. 
Isabelle Wardrop’s demand that Dr Mark Henshaw leave his patient in labour at the Bennington Maternity Home, risking both her life and the baby’s, and go with her to attend to her dying mother, who refused to go by ambulance to hospital, shows us, not only her love for her mother, but also the result of her entitled upbringing.
However, we see what she is really made of when she loses her fortune and home and she and her seventeen year old  sister Marissa end up living near the tenements with Fiona, a devoted servant, and Fiona’s Aunt Rosie. Isabelle struggles to find employment, but ends up getting a maid’s job at a hotel. She is determined to do all she can to give Marissa a future,  but her sister is behaving strangely and will not cooperate by working hard at school. She soon sees the fickleness of her society friends and finds Mark Henshaw extremely helpful and forgiving.
Mark’s brother, Josh, is rebellious and angry, and Mark worries that his brother is going to lose his chance of studying medicine at university the way he is missing classes. His Friend Olivia from the maternity home gives him some good advice. Like Isabelle with her sister, Mark is worrying too much about his brother…..
I cannot recommend A Feeling of Home strongly enough as a most enjoyable, inspirational and thought provoking read.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

IN HONOR’S DEFENSE by KAREN WITEMEYER

Publocation date 7/6/22

IN HONOR’S DEFENSE is thr third novel in the Hanger’s Horsemen series by KAREN WITEMEYER, and although it can easily stand alone I suggest you read the whole lovely series if you possibly can.

The story starts in 1895 in St Louis Missouri where Damaris Baxter, the unassuming and almost invisible youngest of eight children, hears of her older brother Douglas’ death and learns that she is named as his fourteen year old son Nathaniel’s guardian. She moves to Madison county where she is faced with an angry, rebellious boy who does not respond to her affection. Luke Davenport, who comes from a broken and abusive childhood, sees himself in Nate, who is acting out badly after losing both his parents and seems to be asking for trouble.

Luke, or Preach as he is called by the rest of Hanger’s Horsemen, is employed by Nate’s neighbour Oliver Grimes to catch the rustlers who are stealing his cattle. I like the way Luke relies on his relationship with the Lord and his vast knowledge of scripture verses to guide him. The Horsemen are his only family and he has never really had a home. He wonders if someone with his past will ever be able to settle down and have a family. He is fiercely protective by nature and sees something in Damaris that others have not seen. In fact they bring out the best in each other.. 

Add to this a large company wanting to buy Nate’s land, false accusations against him and the mystery surrounding his father’s drowning “accident”, and you have an exciting and suspenseful read.  There is also a sweet romance, some unforgettable characters and a strong Christian message.. I highly recommend In Honor’s Defense to anyone who enjoys this genre.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

WRITTEN ON THE WIND by ELIZABETH CAMDEN

Publication date3/5/22

WRITTEN ON THE WIND is the second novel in the Blackstone Legacy series by ELIZABETH CAMDEN, but it can easily be read as a stand alone. It is a book that will really stay with you as you read of the strong friendship between Natalia Blackstone, a leading analyst in her father’s New York bank, and Russian Count Dimitri Sokolov. In spite of them communicating with one another from opposite parts of the world they really understand one another. It is inspirational to see how far he is prepared to go in order to follow his conscience and how far she is prepared to go in order to help him.

I really love the characters, especially Dimitri, with his strength, heroism, sense of the dramatic, flirtatiousness,  hypochondria, and poetic nature. I like to see how he is prepared to stand up to the Czar in order to have the 1858 Treaty of Aigun reinstated and protected. I like to see how committed Natalia is to her family, especially her baby brother Alexander, and to her work. After her Russian ballerina mother died, her father married Poppy, a woman close to her own age, who never misses an opportunity to put Natalia down.  It is interesting to see how similar the entitled upper classes are in America and Russia, and the growing unrest among the lower classes in both countries.

I do not want to tell you any more for fear of spoiling the read for you. 

I found Written on the Wind inspirational, interesting and exciting and cannot recommend the book highly enough for the unforgettable characters, great story and underlying Christian message.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bathany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

INHERITANCE OF SECRETS by ROBIN PATCHEN

INHERITANCE OF SECRETS is another thrilling romantic suspense novel by ROBIN PATCHEN. Together with a great plot and wonderful characters, some of whom we met in the earlier books in the series, there is a strong Christian message of redemption and hope flowing through the story. I have loved everything I have read by this author, but this one I found particularly inspirational and it is definitely my new favourite!

When Aspen Kincaid goes to Coventry New Hampshire to a house in Rattlesnake Road that belonged to her father, that she knew nothing about, and to follow his deathbed request to “do right by her mother”,  she is not prepared for the hatred of some of the townsfolk.

Garrett McCarthy, the contractor who is renovating the house, is perhaps one of the only friends she has there, but what is to become of their relationship when she finds out that he could be spying on her for his uncle? …..

That is all I am going to tell you for fear of spoiling the read for you.

I really cannot recommend this book strongly enough for anyone who enjoys this genre.

FREE FALL by NANCY MEHL

Publication date 14/6/22

FREE FALL is the third novel in the Quantico Files series by NANCY MEHL, but it can easily stand alone. This book does not only provide a roller coaster ride of thrilling twists and turns, but also contains a message of hope as we see the characters trusting in the Lord to help them in their trials. In fact, the faith of some of these FBI agents is inspiring. I also like the encouraging Bible verses that run through the book, and the camaraderie and unconditional friendship between the agents. There is a definite feeling of belonging to a family.

When Tracy Mendenhall disappears from a park where she had been jogging, F.B.I. behavioral analists Alex Donovan and Logan Hart find that there is a lot more to this case than meets the eye, in fact her dsappearance could be tied to several women who all look like her and have disappeared in the same area. ….

That is all I am going to tell you for fear of spoiling things for you.

I cannot recommend Free Fall highly enough for the exciting and well worked out plot, interesting characters and inspiring Christian message.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

THE APOSTLE’S SISTER by ANGELA HUNT

Publication date 7/6/22

THE APOSTLE’S SISTER is the fourth novel in the Jerusalem Road series by ANGELA HUNT. This author has an amazing way of telling her stories, backed by solid knowledge of scripture together with its Jewish roots. She has also obviously done a great deal of research. 

We first meet Aya, Sha’ul’x younger sister, in Tarsus in A.D. 30, as a young girl with a beautiful voice and a love of singing. She sees her voice as a gift from God and the main thing that makes her unique. Although she does not want to marry, Avidan, the man chosen by her parents, is good and kind and they come to love one another. Sha’ul, on the other hand, only marries Bettina in obedience to the Law and to further his ambition to become a member of the Great Sanhedrin.

Aya leaves Tarsus with Avidan, who is going to study Torah under the great teacher Gamaliel in Jerusalem. 

I like to see how Aya helps her husband, who has poor eyesight, to study for his examinations by reading to him, They have intelligent discussions and we see how Yeshua is right there in the Hebrew scriptures. It is interesting to see the rigidity of the Law, especially as it is practised by the pharisees. When Sha’ul meets Yeshua on the Damascus road, Aya is angry with him for causing her to be shunned by the Jews. Will she ever be able to go against her beliefs and accept Yeshua for herself?

This incredible time in history is described in great detail, with Yeshua and His followers, the miraculous  healings and deliverances, and the message of salvation spreading throughout the known world.

I found The Apostle’s Sister to be full of biblical insight and altogether an inspirational and interesting read. I cannot recommend it highly enough.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

ALL THAT IT TAKES by NICOLE DEESE

Publication date 5/4/22

ALL THAT IT TAKES is another most enjoyable and inspirational novel by NICOLE DEESE with very real characters and a lovely story.

When Val moves to Spokane from Alaska with her ten year old son Tucker to take on a permanent position with her best friend Molly McKenzie, things do not turn out as she expects them to.

When Pastor Miles McKenzie arrives home late one night from his mission work in Mexico, that has just been terminated by the elders of Salt and Light church, he is surprised to find Val and Tucker living in his upstairs apartment.

It is a story about broken people finding restoration and joy, especially when they help others who are going through the same sort of problems. It is about relationships and family, and following where the Lord leads, rather than running away or hiding from difficult situations. This author is really good at describing her characters’ emotions and integrating a good Christian message into her novels. There is also a heartwarming romance and some humour, the latter mostly involving Tucker! I cannot recommend All That it Takes highly enough.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own. 

CODE OF COURAGE by JANICE CANTORE

Publication date 19/7/22

CODE OF COURAGE by JANICE CANTORE is an exciting romantic thriller which takes place in La Rosa, a town that has been taken over by rioters. Both the mayor and the city prosecutor have sided with the rioters against the police, who are finding it nearly impossible to do their job.

Detective Danni Grace is ready to give up her badge after being hit by a lump of concrete thrown by a rioter - who gets away with his crime.

When Thomas Johnston is shot, the police are blamed even though there is strong evidence that they,are not responsile for his death.

Danni’s ex husband Gabriel Fox is asked by a colleague to look into a cold case which seems to tie in with what is going on. Gabe is an ex cop who works as an investigator with the prosecutor’s office. There is definitely a cover up going on in the city and he is also unable to do his job properly. 

I like the way the author analyses Danni and Gabe’s emotions and shows how they each come to realise that there are no coincidences with God. The Christian message flows beautifully through the story and the scriptures she uses are just right.

I guarantee you will not be able to put this book down! It is a thrilling and inspirational read and one I highly recommend for anyone who enjoys romantic suspense.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Tyndale House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

LONG WAY HOME by LYNN AUSTEN

Publication date 21/6/22

In  LONG WAY HOME, LYNN AUSTEN has once again given us a touching and inspirational historical romance novel, undergirded by her faith in Christ and her love for the Word of God and the Jewish people.  It is a story about courage in the face of man’s inhumanity towards his fellow man, love, hope, restoration and redemption.

In 1946 Jimmy Barnett, a WW11 medic, comes back from the war a broken man, suffering from depression and combat fatigue. Jimmy is Peggy Sorrano’s best friend and his parents fill a deep void in her life, as she often feels unwanted and rejected. The three of them, together with Joe Fiore, a soldier whose life Jimmy saved, work hard to help him by contacting men he fought with, many of whose lives he also saved,  to draw him out of his deep depression. Jimmy has always had a strong faith, encouraging others with Scripture, but now he seems angry with God.

Gisela Wolff is a Jewess who escapes Berlin with her family on the St Louis, only to be sent back to Europe after Cuba refuses to allow the ship to dock. I like the way the author runs her story parallel to Jimmy’s and Peggy’s.

The book is very well written with unforgettable characters and a message for each one us. 

I am not going to tell you any more for fear of spoiling the read for you.

I cannot recommend Long Way Home highly enough.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Tyndale House Publishers.  The opinions in this review are completely my own.

THE MOZART CODE by RACHEL McMILLAN

THE MOZART CODE by RACHEL McMILLAN is a very well written story which takes place from 1946 between Vienna and Prague during the Cold War, with flashbacks to war years in Britain where Simon Barrister first meets Sophie Villiers. Theirs is a beautiful but unusual romance, fraught with danger as Simon works under Marcus Brighton for the British Secret Intelligence Service, looking for double agents in war torn Vienna, and Sophie, whose code name is Starling, is employed by various rather shady people to look for valuable artifacts that disappeared during the war. Vienna has been badly damaged during the war and is now divided between four countries, who all have their own ideas how it should be rebuilt. There is a great deal of intrigue in this once beautiful city which has now become known as “the city of spies”, and where it is hard to know who to trust. 

It is a story in which chess and music, loyalty and love, and the source of true riches, play a big part.

This is a historical novel which will grip you from the start and not let go. The setting is so authentic and the character studies so well done, that I found it an exceptional read and it is one I highly recommend.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Thomas Nelson. The opinions in this review are completely  my own.

PROJECT SOLOMON by JENNIFER MARSHALL BLEAKLEY

Publication date 17/5/22

PROJECT SOLOMON by JENNIFER MARSHALL BLEAKLEY is a must read for any animal  lover, particularly a lover of horses. It is a true story of faith and redemption as we read about the incredible relationship between Jodi Stuber and Solomon, the lonely bay gelding who becomes leader of the herd at HopeWell Ranch. As Jodi spends time with Solomon, training him and helping him to integrate with the herd, they come to understand one another, and she pours out her heart to him, finding solace for her grief. This majestic animal, who seems to understand the special needs children who come  to HopeWell for therapy, becomes the inspiration for Project Solomon, which provides a safe place for war veterans as they interact with the horses.

I love everything about this book, especially the way the author’s faith in the Lord, together with that of Jodi and Ty Stuber and their family, shines through the story.

I cannot recommend this heartwarming and inspirational read highly enough.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Tyndale House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

BEAUTIFUL COURAGE by SAM WELLMAN

Publication date 1/4/22

BEAUTIFUL COURAGE by SAM WELLMAN is an in depth biography of a remarkable woman, Corrie ten Boom, who truly lived for Christ. I cannot recommend this book highly enough. As we are taken on a journey through her life, from the age of five when she gave her heart to Jesus, until she went to be with her Lord at the age of ninety one, we see what an incredible imprint this plain, yet beautiful, Dutch watchmaker made on the world.

Coming from a closely knit Christian family, who took the Bible seriously, living by its principles and showing God’s love to those in need, especially to His chosen people, the Jews, Corrie and her sister Betsie are imprisoned by the Nazis, first of all in Holland and then in the infamous women’s prison, Ravensbruck in Germany. These two were “veterans of Nazi inhumanity” who took every opportunity to bring God’s message of salvation  right where they were, to fellow inmates and guards alike, showing His love and forgiveness, all the time trusting God for deliverance from this hell on earth. As Betsie often said “There are no ‘ifs’ in God’s world”. The sisters clung together for comfort, holding on to Betsie’s vision of a large and beautiful house in which to minister to others, especially those who had suffered from the war.

I like to see Corrie’s gratitude which is shown when she is recovering on arriving back in Holland - “As she shuffled past a nurse’s room on her swollen feet, she heard an organist playing Bach! The nurse was listening to her radio. What a feasr life was now. Did it take prison to sharpen these wonderful gifts from God.” 

There is so much more to Corrie’s story - this is truly a book that will inspire each of us in our Christian walk. 

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Barbour Publishing. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

A ROSE FOR THE RESISTANCE by ANGELA K COUCH

Publication date 1/4/22

A ROSE FOR THE RESISTANCE by ANGELA K COUCH is the best WW11 novel I have read in a while. Not only is it a gripping story of courage in adversity, with plenty of intrigue, suspense and a poignant romance, but there is a strong Christian message of hope and redemption running through the chaos. This is the first novel I have read by this author and it most definitely will not be the last. Family dynamics and loyalty are dealt with, together with betrayal, jealousy and the ongoing problem of who to trust.

Franz Kafka is not your ordinary German soldier, as Rosalie Barrieau finds out when he helps her and her brother Marcel hide an injured British airman. He also literally has their back as they work for the Resistance.

The characters are very realistically portrayed and I like the way the author takes us through their hopes and fears as they live through such a horrific time in history.

I found A Rose for the Resistance a worthwhile and inspirational read and cannot recommend it highly enough.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Barbour Publishing. The opinions in this review are completely my own. 

THE ELEMENT OF LOVE by MARY CONNEALY

Publication date 1/3/22

THE ELEMENT OF LOVE by MARY CONNEALY is the first novel in The Lumber Baron’s Daughters series and it is delightful, exciting and amusing. I am really looking forward to the next book in the series.

The story takes place in 1872 with the three Stiles daughters running away from their brutish stepfather who wants them to marry equally brutish men that he has chosen for them.

Michelle, Jilly and Laura are extremely well educated young women, especially in mathematics, science and chemistry, and they put their talents to good use. They know a great deal about running the lumber business which will one day be theirs. There is one thing standing in the way of them ousting their stepfather from his control before they turn twenty five and that is the stipulation that they find husbands. After their daring escape and their journey with Pastor Caleb Tillman and his missionary group to a place aptly called Purgatory, things get really interesting. Their search for husbands and going home to save their mother are two things that are top of their agenda.

I am not going to tell you any more as I do not want to spoil things for you.

I highly recommend The Element of Love as having all the elements of an enjoyable read - romance, humour, suspense, danger, a good plot, unforgettable characters and a strong Christian message. 

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own. 

TOUCH OF INNOCENCE by ROBIN PATCHEN

TOUCH OF INNOCENCE by ROBIN PATCHEN is a Christian suspense novel which is part of the Coventry series, but which, like the others,can easily stand alone. It is a poignant story of sacrificial love and courage that will keep you enthralled as you see how Grace Mullen puts her life on hold in order to save eight year old Lily from her father, Myron Bowman, a psychopathic photographer who is selling photos of her and other children on the dark web.

Through Cassidy, who she met at the girls’ home where she spent most of her childhood, ending up working there after graduating in child psychology, she and Lily move into a condo belonging to Andrew Middleton, a troubled man who has a bad relationship with his father, largely due to his having spent six months in jail, having being set up. He is extremely afraid of falling foul of the law, as is Grace, who is living a lie, pretending to be fostering Lily. Grace is also afraid of loving anyone in case she lets them down. She tried so hard to save a young girl called Celia and failed, not realising that only God can save.

This is a story about restoration and redemption, unconditional love and the importance of walking in truth with God and with one another,. I highly recommend Touch of Innocence as an exciting, thought provoking and inspirational read.

A HUNDRED CRICKETS SINGING by CATHY GOHLKE

Publication date 5/4/22

A HUNDRED CRICKETS SINGING is an historical novel by CATHY GOHLKE which takes place in No Creek  North Carolina, in 1944, following on from Night Bird Calling,  with Celia Percy, now fifteen, and her brother Chester, coming across a secret room in the old Belvidere mansion, after a storm in which a tree crashes through the roof, revealing secrets from the 1860’s. I love to see how Celia, together with her friend Joe Rosetti, old Dr Vishy and rhe Willards, determines to make things right for their friend Marshall and the coloureds in their community by completing the work begun by Minnie, her parents and her brother Elliott. I also like the references to works by Dickens and Hugo and their influence on the story.

We see racism at its worst, in spite of two wars that should have shown mankind that all men are equal in the sight of the Lord and all men bleed the same colour red. We see the  KKK still going strong in the South, and prejudice all over the world breaking up families and nations. It is awful to see Grayson’s greed as he betrays his family and what they stand for.This cry, found in Minnie’s diary,“The persistent, conflicting voices of all those I love, spoken and not,  are deafening - a hundred crickets screeching, shouting in my brain.  The mounting tension is intolerable.Help us Lord!”  really speaks to Celia - will the cry of the crickets ever turn into a song? 

This is a beautifully written novel, with the author’s incredible way of saying things just as they are and her understanding of human nature. There is a strong Christian message, and, amongst other insights, we see that it is only the Lord who can change the human heart .

Although this book can easily stand alone, I suggest you read the fisrst book in the series for pure pleasure.

I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Tyndale House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.