"Truly, Madly" by Heather Webber

Valentine. The name denotes Cupid, love, and happiness. But, Lucy knows that when she was zapped as a child, she lost her ability to work in her family's matchmaking business. Lucy can find lost things but can't make matches. She is, however, expected to fill in when her father is caught in a compromising setting and must leave the area for a while to let things settle down. Lucy decides to try to fake her way through, using her father's system as much as possible. As Lucy has her meetings with clients, one gives her a shock. When they shake hands, Lucy sees a skeleton and a ring. What do they have to do with Lucy or the client? Lucy enlists the aid of her neighbor Sean Donahue and together they search for clues. What will happen between them? Will the Valentine curse continue destroying love lives with hers?

I really enjoyed this book. It is a fun, quick, and enjoyable read. The characters are realistic and you want them to be happy. Come meet Lucy, Sean, Grendel, Odysseus, Dovie, Marisol, and the host of other characters as their stories unfold for you. If you like detective stories with a love story folded in, or are looking for something light to read, this book is for you!

"Healing Sands" by Nancy Rue & Stephen Arterburn

Ryan needs help controlling her anger and getting her family back. Sully is on a search to put closure to the deaths of his wife and daughter. Dan needs help being firmer and more decisive. Each of these characters is an integral part of "Healing Sands." They each need to learn how to surrender to God and let Him guide their choices and direction. Is it easy? No, especially when Ryan goes to an accident to take pictures only to find her 15 year old son being arrested for running over a Hispanic teenager. Then, he won't talk to her and Dan (her ex-husband) won't make him. What will happen to Jake and Alex? How do Ginger and Ian fit into the picture? The twists and turns of the case will keep any reader riveted to their seat.

Sully is looking for Belinda Cox. His idea is to talk to her and make sure she never causes another person to commit suicide. Why is he arrested? How does Kyle fit into the puzzle?

Each person has to look for help from God. Some are reluctant to do so. Will they find their way to Him? I found the story engrossing and compelling. The characters seemed real, and their pain excruciating. There are many things I can use in my own life and it seems that any reader will come away with help and comfort. I recommend it to everyone. With the discussion guide in the back, this book is a great idea for book clubs.

"5 Cities that Ruled the World" by Douglas Wilson

Do cities and their inhabitants have to conquer the world in order to rule it? No. "5 Cities that Ruled the World" establishes the powerful influence that Jerusalem, Athens, Rome, London, and New York have had on history. Her we see examples of faith, the rule of law, democracy, literature, theater, commercial enterprise, and wealth that were new or different. While not always popular, and many times under attack, the people of these cities brought about change. Do they still rule the world? Probably not, but their gifts still do.

Douglas Wilson spent a great deal of time researching his subject. This is a very readable book filled with information on the history of each city, clearly defining the reason each became so powerful and influential.

I really enjoyed this book because Mr. Wilson drew me in. He re-introduced me to people I had studied in history classes, sometimes showing me a new side of them. I enjoyed how he showed that the population of these cities provided influence and information that are still so important today. I you enjoy history, you will enjoy this book.

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"The Letters" by Fiona Robyn

Life changes. That is what Violet finds as she sets out in this story. After an illness and the break-up of her comfortable marriage, Violet moves to the shore for some rest and a change of pace. Little does she know how much her life will change. Once settled, Violet begins receiving letters dated 1959, from someone she doesn't know (Elizabeth), to someone she doesn't know (Bea). The letters pull her into a story of deceit, shame, and love. Who is sending the letters? Why is Violet receiving them? Violet has become involved in the community she lives in, even taking some art classes. There she meets Theresa. How does she fit into the picture?

As the letters continue to arrive, Violet finds that the problems she left behind continue to haunt her. Her son Guy moves back home in hopes of finding himself. Her daughters continue to be distant but do chat. Then there is a sudden change in her daughter Megan. What is the change and how did Violet get so distanced from her children? How does finding yourself help you to love deeper and stronger?

I really enjoyed reading this book, finding the story engaging and the characters likable. While I did figure out the plot before the end of the book, it was fun to trace the story. The only thing I didn't enjoy was when the time changed so quickly that it interrupted the flow of the story. But, once I got my bearings again, it moved right along. Thank you, Fiona, for another good read! =)

"The Elegance of the Hedgehog" by Muriel Barbery

Three lives seemingly separate, come together to help one another. Renee is a 54 yr. old concierge who hides her love/knowledge of culture because of her status. Paloma is a 12 yr. old girl who hides her immense intelligence because of the expectations of others. Her plan is to kill herself on her 13th birthday. These two are from two different, but not really so different, worlds. Kakuro Ozu is a Japanese gentleman in his 60's who is new to the building, but also a catalyst to help Renee and Paloma really discover themselves.

One of my favorite quotes is found on page 91. "tea is the beverage of the wealthy and of the poor; the tea ritual, therefore, has the extraordinary virtue of introducing into the absurdity of our lives an aperture of serene harmony."

It is easy to understand the way characters feel because of the stereotypes each brings to their lives or feels from others. I was caught up in the story of hiding intelligence and the love of culture. Why would people feel the need to hide these wonderful attributes? I was also caught up in the story of Paloma and her desire to kill herself on her 13th birthday. Why would she want to do this? Did she meet her goal of profound thoughts? How was Ozu helpful to each of them? I encourage you to pick up the book and discover the answers to these questions. You will find comedy, poignancy, and profound thoughts.

"Green" by Ted Dekker

"Green" is the classic good vs. evil type of book. It is advertised as a book that can either begin or end the popular "Circle" series by Ted Dekker. Time changes quickly bouncing between the present and the future, with references to the past. One man, Thomas Hunter, tries to save his future world from corruption only to find that his son, Samuel, is rebelling against Elyon, their God, and the "Great Romance." As evil grows the problems seem insurmountable. Will Thomas be able to save his world from a descent into evil? Will Samuel get his heart right?

Meanwhile, Billy is trying to find answers to his own problems in the present time. His search for the vial of Thomas Hunter's blood escalates, as he tries to find the hidden books of history. The vial of blood is essential. Was the vial destroyed?

I found it difficult to get into this book. Maybe it is because I didn't read the other three books and had no real starting point with the characters. Eventually I found myself pulled into the story, picking the people I wanted to win. I found the parallels to Bible times interesting, but also felt a little uncomfortable. I will be getting the other books so that I read Ted Dekker's complete thoughts here. I would recommend that readers pick up the "Circle" trilogy first, then read this one.

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"The Postmistress" by Sarah Blake

“The Postmistress” is set in the years 1940-41, both on Cape Cod and in Europe. The reader follows the paths of three women – Emma, Iris, and Frankie – as Europe experiences Hitler’s fury and Americans wonder if they will enter the war. Emma has just married Will, a doctor on Cape Cod. She wants to make a good impression on the people there, and make a good home for her husband. Iris is the Postmaster of the same town Emma moves to, and watches over the people of the town. Frankie is a reporter in London during the Blitzkrieg, experiencing some of the horrors of war while trying to report on them. As the story moves along, the lives of these three women intersect around letters. It is up to the reader to decide if the decisions the characters make are good and wise.

I had the wonderful privilege of reading this book as part of Barnes & Noble’s First Look Book Club, and really enjoyed it. It grabbed, and kept, my attention. Sarah Blake painted vivid pictures of bombings, train rides, ocean views, etc., putting me in each spot, letting me hear the characters as they spoke. Her research brings this period of history alive. I especially enjoyed “traveling” along with Frankie as she told the story of the war and searched for the truth about the Jewish persecution. All three of the main characters in this book have compelling stories and they are people I will not soon forget. This is a book to read again!

"The White Mary" by Kira Salak

Marika travels the world in search of war stories to bring back to her readers. Little does she know the toll it is taking on her and her life. One person stands as a shining example of success for her - Robert Lewis. He is her idol and she has studied him for years. After his unexpected suicide, Marika determines that she will write an autobiography about him. She will even stay home to write. But, there is an unexpected letter that makes her believe that Robert is still alive. Should she search? Can she get there? If so, will she survive Papua New Guinea? Is Robert Lewis really still alive? What about Seb? Will he continue to love her?

Kira Salak weaves a magnificent story about Marika and her demons. One of my favorite lines is found on pg. 337 and is spoken by Tobo. "Listen," he says to her sternly, "I will tell you a secret about your demons: they are never stronger than you." Come meet Marika, Seb, Tobo and the others. Take the journey to PNG. It is a journey that certainly captured my attention!

"Kabul 24" by Arnold and Pearson

"Now Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." Hebrews 11:1 KJV This verse from the Bible describes faith and "Kabul 24" tells the stories of people who lived their faith in modern times. Imagine this: suddenly, the semi-hostile country around you (a people you have come to help) becomes filled with fanatics and spies wishing you harm. Families you thought of as friends betray you. You are taken from your home, unable to convey to others what is happening, then transported to, and left in, filthy and unsanitary conditions. It is enough for most people to blame God and beg for mercy. But, this group of eight people from SNI relied on their faith in God to get them through. Times were frightening and no help seemed to be around, but they knew God never left them. Did they wonder why they were chosen to face this trial? How did the assassination of Ahmad Shah Massoud, the rise of the Taliban and Mullah Omar, the constant changes in Sharia Law, and the 911 bombings in America affect them and their conditions? What made it possible for this group of eight to carry on when nothing seemed possible?

Henry O. Arnold and Ben Pearson wrote a book that transported me to Kabul. I could remember praying for these hostages. I could see the community before and after the arrests, and the changes were astounding. It was enlightening and uplifting to read their story. If you have ever needed strength, ever had a time of testing or a lapse of faith, pick up this book. You will be stronger and more encouraged for doing so.

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"The Lost Symbol" by Dan Brown

Robert Langdon is back, this time in Washington D.C. Lured to the city to do a speech for a friend. Professor Langdon finds himself embroiled in yet another mystery surrounding symbols. This time he has to uncover the answers to questions surrounding the "wisdom of the ages" - something of enormous power - to try to save a friend. Throw in some espionage, murder, lies, history, and a great backdrop; and you find a work of fiction well worth reading. Dan Brown has definitely done it again!

I love a good work of fiction, something that totally draws me into the story, and something that is written in a believable style. I have read Dan Brown's other two books in this series, "Angels and Demons" and "The DaVinci Code," and enjoyed them all. Will there be a number four? I sure hope so.

"Evermore" by Alyson Noel

Would you want to live on the earth forever, watching those you love die? The first book in "The Immortals: series poses that dilemma. Ever survives an accident which takes the lives of the rest of her family. Her struggle with her guilt for living causes her problems on a daily basis. What part does her dead sister, Riley, play in her life? Her ability to read people's minds and auras seems to be a curse, one she wishes to break. But, enter a handsome stranger - Damen. What hold does he have on her? Can he help her? Will Ever make it through her run-in's with Drina? Is Ever immortal? The answers to these questions, and more, await the reader.

I found this book to be very much like the "Twilight" series. Beautiful, troubled girl meets extremely handsome immortal man. And, as the "Twilight" series did, "Evermore" drew me in and encouraged me to stay, to hear their story. I will now pick up my copy of "Blue Moon." =) While this is listed as a teen read, I think people of all ages can read and enjoy Alyson Noel's story.

"Lonestar Secrets" by Colleen Coble

Shannon is looking for a chance to better her life for herself and her daughter. While she has struggled as a single mother and put herself through vet school, the ranch bequeathed to her offers a new opportunity. The vet clinic in town is also available to her, so off she goes. But, does the little town hold painful secrets for her? And, what's up with Mary Beth?
Jack is struggling with painful memories of his deceased wife, but his daughter is the light of his life. The ranch and training horses give him an outlet for his passion and give him a great place to raise his daughter. What is his connection to Shannon?
Faith and Kylie are two little girls caught in a whirlwind of secrets. What will happen when the secrets come out? Will they both accept the outcome?
I totally enjoyed this book! There is mystery, suspense, love, faith, and humor. The location and characters drew me into the story and provided a comfortable place to hear the story. The animals also drew me in - Jewel the gorgeous stallion and the dogs, Moses, Wyatt, and Jem. This is a story for anyone who loves a good read.

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"Fearless" by Max Lucado

Faith over fear. "Fearless," by Max Lucado, offers practical solutions and Scripture to life's challenges. What is fear? It is really a lack of the ability to control the outcome to a situation. This wonderful book looks at our fears over children, money, the unknown, life, and death. He lists Scripture with each situation to help underscore the fact that God is with us ALL the time. We aren't alone and God's peace can alleviate our fear. Is it really that easy? -with practice leaning on the everlasting arms it can be. Can anyone live a fearless life? Yes! With stories, some humorous, and Biblical suggestions Max Lucado lays out a roadmap to follow.

I really enjoyed this book. It helped me look practically at the fears that surround me and offered help and hope that they can be overcome. Had I already heard the message? Did I know the Scriptures? Yes. But sometimes we need a reminder to get us back on track. God ALWAYS sends messages our way to help us live our lives fully and without fear. But, we let things get in the way of His comfort and guidance. I enjoyed Mr. Lucado's use of humor to bring home his points. I loved the Scriptures he used, and found great comfort in them. This is definitely a book to keep on your shelf as a constant reminder and tool to help you lead a "Fearless" life.

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"The Help" by Kathryn Stockett

Set in Mississippi in the early 1960's, The Help brings to life the daily struggle between the black and white population. Times are tough for the black workers. They are treated poorly by most and have to work so much harder just to get by. This while many of the white women they work for don't even say thank-you, much less think they should. But, time's they were a-changin! Skeeter wants to be a writer, but needs something new, something to catch people's eye. With the thought of writing about what it is like to work as a maid in a white household, she enlists the aid of some of the maids she knows. Danger surrounds them as they meet to tell their stories. As the story unfolds, you will discover the answer to secrets long buried, feelings long repressed. You will get a glimpse of the fear, sorrow, anger, and joy happening on both sides of the racial divide. Can these women help effect change? Will the book get written? published? Come meet Skeeter, Minny, Hilly, Aibileen, Elizabeth, and the others. They will capture you with their stories and leave you wanting more.

"A Man of His Word" by Kathleen Fuller

Set in Middlefield, OH, "A Man of His Word" transports the reader to Amish life. There is also a smattering of Amish words throughout the book (with definitions) to really get a taste of the life. Life here is simple and the people are hard-working. There is some interaction with the outside world, but the beliefs of the people in this community are strong. Here is a world where your word is your bond, where leaving the church and your family means banishment (but forgiveness is also available), and where love blossoms in the purest of forms. Families are strong and the examples set for love and marriage palpable.

I was totally drawn into the story from the beginning. Throughout the book there was tension and love between characters creating some funny and poignant moments. Come meet Levi, Gabriel, Tobias, Christian, Aaron, Rachel, and Moriah. These teenagers grew up together, yet, do they really know each other? Their parents watch and pray that their children make the right matches and that their faith remains strong. Aaron slips, but returns to find forgiveness from his family and his commmunity. But, will he forgive himself? I appreciated that all of the characters did turn to God in prayer and in His Word even when things seemed darkest. While there were tough moments, they found Him to be a steady rock. I recommend this book highly to all readers. It will make you laugh and cry, but most importantly, will show that God is ready, willing, and able to help us.

"Under This Unbroken Sky" by Shandi Mitchell

While this book is well written, I had a very tough time with it. (This review is difficult to put together.) As a reader, I was taken from disaster to disaster with little relief for the characters. The story is dark and gritty, and while I felt for the characters, I was also looking for more than just strands of hope. I honestly wanted to like this book, but... It still haunts my thoughts, and I had a difficult time picking up another book when I finished this one. Shandi Mitchell is a talented author - this just wasn't the book for me. I will, however, look for more of her work.
If you like books that read like a documentary, this book is for you. If you like dark stories, this book is for you.

"Natural Born Charmer" by Susan E. Phillips

Looking for a wonderful weekend or beach read? "Natural Born Charmer" may be right for you. There is a lot of laughter and poignancy to this story. Imagine a football player driving down the road spotting a "headless" beaver walking down the side. Once Dean stops and gives Blue a lift, his life changes forever. Come meet these lovable characters and join them as mysteries and family members are revealed. This book was a great departure from some of the heavy stuff I was reading, and provided many needed laughs. Come on, join the fun!

Rick & Bubba's Guide to the Almost Nearly Perfect Marriage

Is there a perfect marriage out there? No, but lots of "almost nearly perfect ones." Take two people who love each other, sprinkle in some laughter and a love for God, and you are on your way! Rick and Bill take a comical, sometimes stereotypical, look at the problems and situations married couples encounter. Does the wife have to do all the housework? Is the husband the only one who loves the outdoors? These are just two things you can read about in this book. The accompanying CD is priceless.

I enjoyed reading this book and laughed through a lot of the scenarios. While some of the humor works best in person (hence the enclosed CD), you get the gist here. I did think a lot of the comments were stereotypical, but also think it was probably done to hone in on the fact that too many people fall into those traps. No one fits all of this, no one wants to. This book takes some of the seriousness out of marriage, replacing it with humor and common sense. So, come on, take a fresh look at the situations that plague you, find the humor, and move on with your spouse!

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"An Irish Country Doctor" by Patrick Taylor

Ballybucklebo, a quaint town in Ireland and home of Dr. Fingal Flahertie O'Reilly and a myriad of other fascinating characters. Dr. Barry Laverty answers an ad about becoming an assistant to Dr. O'Reilly and his world changes. Laverty soon learns that being a doctor is more than just doing paperwork and using big words. But, is O'Reilly's bedside manner correct? Is this really where Laverty wants to work and live?

This book was a real joy to read and will make you feel good about others. I found myself engrossed from the start with the setting and the characters. I would love to really meet them! It is an easy read and one I will pick up again.

"The Blue Handbag" by Fiona Robyn

What would happen if you suddenly found your life full of mystery? What if that mystery involved your deceased spouse, someone you loved more than life itself? Three years after the death of this wife, Leonard has that happen to him when he finds a blue handbag with a mystery ticket inside. Why did Rose have a ticket to Didcot, a place he didn't know she visited? At first Leonard puts it out of his mind but then Lily appears and he finds there is so much about Rose that he didn't know. Together they embark on an investigation to figure out the missing pieces of Rose's story. At times Leonard is confused, at times amazed, and at times he wants to stop; but he needs to know the truth.

Thank you, Fiona, for a wonderful book. I was captivated with this book and its characters. They were easy to get to know and like. I found it difficult to put the book down because I wanted to help solve the mystery. Once you pick up this book, you will want to help Leonard too!

Notes From the Tilt-A-Whirl by N.D. Wilson

What a wonderful ride! This book explores God as Creator, Artist, and Voice. Through ordinary examples (ants, clouds, skunks, thunderstorms, etc.), N.D. Wilson shows us the Master Artist and how He speaks constantly. It will be harder to take things for granted or to ignore them altogether after reading these words. The book takes the reader on a wild ride from topic to topic, always returning to the main point. What may at first glance appear to be rabbit trails are instead found as facts to be pondered, relationships to be explored, things to be noticed.

I really enjoyed this book and found many profound thoughts and statements inside. Two of my favorites are: "You have been born into a narrative, you have been given freedom. Act, and act well until you reach your final scene." pg. 108-109 and "Change this world. Use your body like a tool meant to be used up, discarded, and replaced. Better every life you touch." pg. 154 There are also wonderful scenes with his wife and children that leave the reader wanting to meet them, to share their laughter and sorrow.

Come on! Take a ride on the tilt-a-whirl and rediscover the Artist and his Masterpiece. Come, hear His voice in the common, everyday things and be changed.

"It Happened In Italy: Untold Stories of How the People of Italy Defied the Horrors of the Holocaust"

By: Elizabeth Bettina
Non-fiction 384 pp
IBSN-13: 9781595551023

The Holocaust: a monstrous time in the world’s history. Yet, the people of one country stood against the death and destruction, quietly saving Jews from slaughter. It Happened in Italy tells the stories of survivors and those who helped them. Many Italians opened their hearts and homes, putting their lives at risk, for their neighbors and refugees from other countries.

From the moment I opened this book, I was captivated by the stories Elizabeth Bettina uncovered. Her journey began with a photo of a group of people which included a Rabbi. She knew Campagna, Italy, but didn’t realize that the city was such a place of safety during WW II. My favorite story deals with Walter and his glorious return to Italy. The things that fall into place for that visit are amazing!

Ms. Bettina weaves her stories with maps and pictures. The pictures are remarkably clear, and each is labeled with who is in them, many with the place. The reader is also able to experience some of the Italian culture with the language (which is also translated).

Come, journey back to WW II and meet some of the Italian saviors and those they helped save. It is an unforgettable journey!

Buy		Read

"Of Bees and Mist"

I had the opportunity to read an advanced reader copy of "Of Bees and Mist" as part of the B&N First Look group. While I wasn't pulled into the story immediately, I became totally engrossed after a few chapters. Erick Setiawan weaves a story filled with fantastical images and supernatural happenings. I found myself hearing the bees, smelling the flowers, feeling the mist, and visiting the places he writes about. (The cover is a "picture" of the story, so be sure to look it over.) This is a story filled with personal and family turmoil and struggle. As a reader, I wanted to know what would happen at the end and what the images and allusions meant.

If you are looking for a book by a new author that will challenge you as a reader, this is definitely the book for you. If you love adventure, escapism, and fantasy in a book, this book is also for you.

"Who Moved My Cheese" Johnson/Blanchard

This is a short book - under 100 pages - that shows with how people deal with change. As you read, you will discover which of the characters you are like - either of the mice (Sniff or Scurry) or either of the littlepeople (Hem and Haw). The change can be anywhere in your life and the maze is the path you take after the change. It is a quick read that could affect how you look at things.

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/booksearch/isbninquiry.asp?ean=9780399144462&

"Prayers For Sale"

Sandra Dallas has done a wonderful job with this book. Middle Swan, Colorado is a mining town, and as you can imagine, it has a full cast of interesting characters living there. From the miners to the wives to the hookers, you will be pulled into their world.

Hennie Comfort is eighty-six and has lived in Middle Swan for over sixty years. Her stories gave me a glimpse into the people and situations that have made up her life. (I would love to hear more!) Nit Spindle is seventeen when she comes to town with her husband. Hennie and Nit become friends, making the transitions each of them need to make easier.

Come meet Hennie and her friends. Discover the meaning behind the sign on her fence that simply reads, "Prayers For Sale." Uncover the secret that has kept Hennie out of church for many years. Come to Middle Swan, Colorado and get a taste of mining life with its tragedies and its pleasures. It is a place I will definitely revisit in the future.

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Prayers-for-Sale/Sandra-Dallas/e/9780312385187/?itm=1

"Fragment" by Warren Fahy

"Fragment" grabbed me from the beginning and the more I read, the more I wanted to read. Warren Fahy blends science with fiction to weave a story that compelled me to continue on. The characters are real and the story one I think many have pondered.

The story begins in 1791, but quickly comes forward to present day as a reality television show. Nell tried out for the show just to get to the island. Little did Nell know, that while the island is a scientist's dream, it is also a scientist's nightmare. The entire novel takes place in 28 days, and sometimes Mr. Fahy tells his story minute by minute, or hour by hour. I felt like I was there - I was on the boat; on the island; I knew the characters. Most of the island creatures terrified me, but there is one....

If you like books that keep you engrossed, books that make you think, you will enjoy "Fragment." Come, take a journey on the Trident. Come meet the scientists and listen to their story.

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Fragment/Warren-Fahy/e/9780553807530/?itm=4

"Breaking Dawn" by Stephanie Meyer

"Breaking Dawn" fits as the fourth book in the "Twilight" series. I was able to escape again into a world inhabited by humans, vampires, and werewolves. The characters seemed so close as I read about the changes many endured. Again I was captured by the pictures created in my mind of the strength and power in the vampires and werewolves. I felt their aches and pains as well as their love. The classic good vs. evil storyline never grows old for me. It is a series I will read again.

"Eclipse"

Ahhh, back to the "Twilight" saga. I had left the series a little while ago to read other things (like a "First Look" book at Barnes & Noble), but thought now would be a good time to finish last two books. "Eclipse" did not disappoint me at all! It was filled with action, suspense, love, and all the things that keep me glued to the page. It answered some of my questions (i.e. love triangle, Victoria) and left others alone. It was extremely difficult to put down. I will be sad to leave the series but for now, on to "Breaking Dawn!"

Nora Roberts' "Circle Trilogy"

I had a hard time putting these books down. "Morrigan's Cross," "Dance of the Gods," and "Valley of Silence" carried me into a world with vampires, a shape-shifter, a witch and wizard, and other interesting characters. From New York to Ireland, I found myself engrossed in the classic good vs. evil story with some love stories thrown in. Ms. Roberts writes trilogies very well!

"The Road"

I found this book by Cormac McCarthy to be dark and depressing. I read this book because it was a gift, but found the style something I did not enjoy. A book gets to me when I get to know the characters - their thoughts and dreams. This one did not do that. I kept hoping for something that never happened - a connection to the characters. I was pulling for the father and son, but don't feel the book ended with any real hope or conclusion.

The Heretic's Daughter

Here is another book that deals with the Salem Witch Trials. Kathleen Kent writes from the viewpoint of a young girl who becomes embroiled in the trials. Her scenes are vivid (especially the prison scenes) and her characters are memorable. It is well worth reading!

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/The-Heretics-Daughter/Kathleen-Kent/e/9780316024488/?itm=1

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/978703.Kathleen_Kent


Donna =)

The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane

I had the opportunity to read thia book as part of Barnes and Noble's First Look Book Club. It is the first book by Katherine How, and is sure to be a huge hit. Here are links to my review and the book's website.

http://my.barnesandnoble.com/communityportal/Review.aspx?page=Review&reviewid=1111390

http://www.physickbook.com/

Donna