One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are by Ann Voskamp

Description:
MP3 CD– Audiobook, MP3 Audio, Unabridged - Read by the Author
    What it means to be … deeply human … deeply spiritual … deeply and authentically fulfilled Like most listeners, Ann Voskamp hungers to live her one life well. Forget the bucket lists about once-in-a-lifetime experiences. “How,” Voskamp wondered, “do we find joy in the midst of deadlines, debt, drama, and daily duties? What does a life of gratitude look like when your days are gritty, long, and sometimes dark? What is God providing here and now?” A beautifully practical guide to living a life of joy, One Thousand Gifts invites you to wake up to God’s everyday blessings. As Voskamp discovered, in giving thanks for the life she already had, she found the life she’d always wanted. Following Voskamp’s grace-bathed reflections on her farming, parenting, and writing life, you will embark on a transformative spiritual discipline of chronicling gifts. Along the way, you will discover a way of seeing that opens your eyes to gratitude, a way of living so you are not afraid to die, and a way of becoming present to God’s presence that brings deep and lasting happiness.

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     Instead of purchasing this as a book, I got this as an audio book to listen to on a long road trip.  The Author's voice and reading are soothing and poignant.  Her writing style leans towards the poetic.  For some this may be an issue, for others they will see the beauty in her writing and her view on life.  While I have listened to many great examples and truths from this book, taking and applying them to my life... I find that I wish I would have rather purchased this as a book or study.  Not that this hasn't been good.  But that rather, I wish I had the ebook with the audio added.  Just so I could, if I chose, read the words and even read faster than the audio.

    Ann Voskamp writes poetically and speaks from deep truths and trials based on her own life experiences. She bears forth, from the simplicity of life and everyday examples these deep hidden truths that point us continually to God's love and a heart overflowing with thankfulness. She shows us that even in moments where there is deep hurt and uncertainty, we should look to God and remember His goodness, His faithfulness, Him sovereignty in control and planning and working all things together for our good.  We are to give thanks and then as she says "comes the miracle". Believe, give thanks and then taste and see that -yes, God is good. Yes, He does work all things together for our good.  The question is, will we believe Him; will we believe His promises even amidst the hardest circumstances?

    One Thousand Gifts is filled with poignancy, truth and experience pouring out and encouraging you to live life to the fullest.  To live in thankfulness and to experience the wonder of God.  I do recommend this book and hope that you will let it touch and awaken you to living out the truths found within.

    "...give thanks is an action and rejoice is a verb and these are not mere pulsing emotions. While I may not always feel joy. God asks me to give thanks in all things because he knows the feeling of joy begins in the action of thanksgiving. " - Ann Voskamp

The Redeeming (Age of Faith Series, Book 3) by Tamara Leigh

Book Description:
    The Unveiling and The Yielding, the first two books in the Age of Faith series, introduced readers to the formidable Wulfrith family during Duke Henry’s battle for England’s throne and his succession. Now that Henry wears the crown, he is more determined than ever to bring the Wulfriths to heel.

IN THE EYES OF THE CHURCH AND MEN, HERS IS NO SMALL SIN

Lady Gaenor Wulfrith is a woman scorned. And King Henry’s pawn. After three broken betrothals, she is ordered to wed her family’s enemy, a man she has never met and has good reason to fear. Faced with the prospect of an abusive marriage that will surely turn worse when her sin is revealed, she flees her family’s home with the aid of a knight—a man who could prove her ruin.

Christian Lavonne, the only remaining heir to the barony of Abingdale, has thrown off his monk’s robes—and God—to minister his lands. Determined to end the devastation wrought by his family’s feud with the Wulfriths, he agrees to marry his enemy’s sister, a woman no man seems to want. When he learns she has fled with a knight who has broken fealty with the Wulfriths, he pursues her, knowing that when they meet his own sin will be revealed and he will be as much in need of redemption as the woman who may carry another man’s child.

 

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    Ms. Leigh's 3rd book in the Age of Faith series was another captivating, page- turner! The characters and their story leap off the page and have you eager to read more.   Gaenor Wulfrith and Christian Lavonne must learn many lessons along the way, one of them being to learn to trust each other and even more importantly to trust God.  They must also learn lessons on giving and receiving forgiveness.  I found the spiritual messages and truths nicely tucked throughout this tale, were great reminders for us in our everyday lives.  As well as a reminder of our Lord, Who first loved us, even when we were still in our sin.

      I have truly enjoyed this series and I am VERY eager for Book 4 to come out! Also, I am secretly hoping Leigh might add a few more books to the series.  I can think of three other characters right now, of which I would like to see the rest of their stories unfold.  I think that says something good about her writing.  So, if you are interested in a good, clean, medieval romance, dashed with some action and suspense, then look no further, this is the series for you!

The Yielding (Age of Faith Series, Book 2) by Tamara Leigh

Book Description:
     The Unveiling, the first book in the Age of Faith series, introduced readers to the formidable Wulfrith family during Duke Henry’s battle for England’s throne in 1153. Now, four years later, Henry wears the crown, but the Wulfriths are no less defiant—and no more amenable to forging alliances through king-decreed marriage.

SHE HAD KILLED A MAN. OR SO IT WAS SAID…

Convent-bound Lady Beatrix Wulfrith is determined to aid her sister in escaping marriage to their family’s enemy. Unaware of the sacrifice that awaits her, she leads their pursuers astray only to meet with an accident that forever alters her destiny and takes the life of a young knight whose brother vows he will not rest until the lady is brought to justice.

Lord Michael D’Arci is a warrior and a womanizer whose foul mouth and impatience bode ill for all who trespass against him. Falsely accused of ravishment years earlier, he refuses to believe Lady Beatrix’s accusations against his deceased brother. However, when he finds himself at the mercy of that same woman who clings to her convictions and faith even when it threatens to prove her undoing, his quest for justice wavers.

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     Leigh has once again created a masterfully woven, medieval tale!  This one not only held my interest but has planted seeds and excitement for the next book in the series.  Since I had already read the description of Book 3, I kept trying to figure out how the circumstances in this book were leading into the next.  I am sure you will find this book to be a page turner, just as I did. It is exciting, romantic and dashed with suspense, a sure crowd pleaser.

 

    Lady Beatrix is a strong and likable main character.  Leigh has no problem writing good characters, with depth and the ability for you to care about them and see them come to life off the page.  I liked seeing the character development of Lord Michael D'Arci and the way Leigh wove the seeds of faith and truth throughout this novel.  There was one point in the story, where I thought Leigh might take the relationship between the two characters in a direction I was not comfortable with but needless to say just a few paragraphs later my fears were relieved.  I really enjoyed this novel and look forward to the next book... I see where a book 4 is in the works but it isn't listed online yet for pre-order but I have a feeling once it is I will be placing my order!

The Unveiling (Age of Faith Series, Book 1) by Tamara Leigh

Book Description:

12th century England: Two men vie for the throne: King Stephen the usurper and young Duke Henry the rightful heir. Amid civil and private wars, alliances are forged, loyalties are betrayed, families are divided, and marriages are made.

For four years, Lady Annyn Bretanne has trained at arms with one end in mind—to avenge her brother’s murder as God has not deemed it worthy to do. Disguised as a squire, she sets off to exact revenge on a man known only by his surname, Wulfrith. But when she holds his fate in her hands, her will wavers and her heart whispers that her enemy may not be an enemy after all.

Baron Wulfrith, renowned trainer of knights, allows no women within his walls for the distraction they breed. What he never expects is that the impetuous young man sent to train under him is a woman who seeks his death—nor that her unveiling will test his faith and distract the warrior from his purpose.

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    Well, I have to admit in my "former" reading life (prior to reading Christian fiction), although I liked several genres, one of my favorites was historical novels set in Medieval times.  So when I stumbled upon this book by Leigh, I was excited!  I am glad to say I was also not disappointed!  Leigh's novel captivated me from the beginning and relentlessly held me captive, eagerly devouring the pages.  I am sure there must have been a "Do Not Disturb" sign upon my forehead.

 

    This novel contained some intrigue, suspense and of course romance.  I might add it was a bit spicy romance too.  Nothing bad, just sizzling for Christian romance.  Our main characters are neither perfect, but aren't we all flawed, and that actually adds to the story.  It not only makes the story more realistic but interesting.  I love seeing characters develop, grow and find a deeper walk with God. 

 

    Wulfrith while in so many ways was admirable, and one you easily like as the manly hero, there was one instance that just didn't fit with his character.  Again, no one is perfect and yes, Christians do make mistakes.  I found the fact that he seemed to be so strong in faith and yet his admittance that he was not a virgin a little shocking.  I know during that time period it may have been deemed acceptable to sleep with those of the lower class/help & unmarried okay or even normal. Any way this wasn't a big deal in the story but I just wanted to throw it out there for you. 

 

    While Annyn might be a little too vengeful and reckless in the beginning, you will come to really like her character and enjoy the journey she is on.  Both the main characters and the secondary characters are well written, the plot is good AND I am really looking forward to reading the rest of this series!

   

 



Stealing the Preacher by Karen Witemeyer

Book Description:

     On his way to interview for a position at a church in the Piney Woods of Texas, Crockett Archer can scarcely believe it when he's forced off the train by a retired outlaw and presented to the man's daughter as the minister she requested for her birthday. Worried this unfortunate detour will ruin his chances of finally serving a congregation of his own, Crockett is determined to escape. But when he finally gets away, he's haunted by the memory of the young woman he left behind--a woman whose dreams now hinge on him.

For months, Joanna Robbins prayed for a preacher. A man to breathe life back into the abandoned church at the heart of her community. A man to assist her in fulfilling a promise to her dying mother. A man to help her discover answers to the questions that have been on her heart for so long. But just when it seems God has answered her prayers, it turns out the parson is there against his will and has dreams of his own calling him elsewhere. Is there any way she can convince Crockett to stay in her little backwoods community? And does the attraction between them have any chance of blossoming when Joanna's outlaw father is dead set against his daughter courting a preacher?

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     If you are looking for a lighthearted, romantic, Christian fiction read - then this is it! Witemeyer writes wonderful characters, that you not only admire but that worm their way into your heart.  A great example of this is found in Jackson, one of the secondary characters.  The main characters of course are a delight.  You can't help but enjoy their tale and seeing how, through God, all things work together for good.

 

Delightful!

 

Lacy's Lane (Book 1) by Patricia Strefling

Book Description:

     Lacy Lee Lane has just learned that Thad Gannon is coming back to town. She’s been taking care of his grandfather’s farm since he left four years ago to become a popular television star on the Hollywood soap, Malibu Mansion. When her younger sister, Allison made the announcement Lacy felt her stomach twirl. Thad Gannon had been her high school crush, until he dumped her for another girl at her first prom. She had never fully forgiven him for that, nor the fact that he had abandoned his grandfather who lived next door. Seeing him would mean digging up the past and that was not going to happen. She had buried some memories long ago deep inside and worked hard every day to keep them that way. When he arrived, Lacy was going to give him a piece of her mind . . . if she could even look him in the eye after what happened that night after the prom. - Inspirational Romance -

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     This is the first book by Patricia Strefling I have read and I really did enjoy it.  I picked it up last night and stayed up way too late finishing it.  The story plot lures you in and keeps the pages turning quickly, especially towards the end.  The characters and their story come to life and the tale is one that is not only moving but timely.

 

    Lacy's Lane tackles several subjects: loss, rape and human trafficking, to name a few.  Not only does Lacy's Lane advocate for these women but also, this book is raising money to help women trapped in human trafficking.  So not only are you purchasing a good read but also one that helps a good cause.

 

    If you read some other reviews on this book, you may notice several mentions of needed editing and such.  I read this as an ebook, so I am not sure how much of it was glitches in the conversion to ebook or just missed when going through the editing process. I have had similar issues with other ebooks.  However, a few of the areas were editing mistakes but I did not find that this was a big distraction to the story.  I did skim some through the book.  It could have been a little shorter but either way the premise and storyline was good.  The characters were well written and the subject material handled very well.

 

    I am looking forward to continuing Lacy's story in Book 2!

 



The Breath of Dawn (Book 3) by Kristen Heitzmann

   
     To say that I loved this novel does not even begin to touch how I feel about it.  I have to say that, not only is this my favorite book in the series, but also it has to be my favorite book of Heitzmann's yet.  And it has made it into my favorites list. Honestly, this book can be read as a stand alone book, but I am glad that I read the previous novels too.  I have so enjoyed getting to know all of these characters, who have come to life in my mind and whom I find it incredibly hard to say goodbye to.  I really feel as if I could pick this book up again and read it right now.  It is that good.  The Breath of Dawn is one of those books that still lingers with you after the last page.  You keep thinking about it and enjoying it ... I am not ready to start another book yet, if that tells you anything (I am an avid reader, who usually goes right from one book to another).

    I am glad that Book 2, was more of a journey story for Morgan and Jill, than a big romance book or it would have made Book 3 almost impossible to read.  As it is you really liked Jill and it is sad ... But you see Heitzmann working out some good spiritual truths through out these novels and showing God's love, healing, grace and sovereignty.  Morgan is a character that you just can't help but to love.  And Book 3 brings him not only a chance at love again but so much more. Quinn is adorable, special and very lovable. 

    This story had just the right recipe, a mix of romance with spice, faith, hope, and dashes of mystery and suspense.  It all blended together into an unforgettable story that is sure to be one you find hard to put down and one that finds a place on your keeper shelf!  Buy this one, so you can enjoy it again and again!

The Still of Night (A Rush of Wings Series #2) by Kristen Heitzmann

    I have thoroughly enjoyed this book!  Jill and Morgan's story is touching, compelling, heartfelt and sure to be a page turner!  In fact, there were a few times I felt I could skim a few paragraphs, not because the book wasn't good but because I was so anxious to see what was going to happen next and had to speed through!  This is one of those books that you hate to put down, and even when you find you have to, you will still have it running through your mind.  It was just that good!

    There are touches of romance in this story but I wouldn't really label it a romance.  It is really about so much more...  A story about a prodigal, about life, adoption, love, forgiveness, grace and the truth setting you free.  Heitzmann portrays these characters' lives, hurts, fears, hopes and journey with God, honestly, beautifully and truthfully.  It is a compelling and thoughtful story.  One that I am sure I could read again and again.  Very touching.

    In life we make choices, sometimes choices get made for us, but what it all comes down to is trusting God with our lives and the outcome.  As it said in the book "Things don't always work out the way we want.  The trick is to want the way they work out."  In another words, to want God's will more than your own.  And I believe part of that is in believing His promises.  That He does have good for us and He does work all things together for our good.  There are times in life when it seems hard to believe that, but we must cling to those promises.  He will show Himself faithful!

    Book 2 was so good, it topped Book 1 for me.  I know she wrote both of these books pretty closely together, time wise.  However, Book 3 was published about 9 years after Book 2.  Morgan's story continues and I can't wait to read it!

     SPOILER ALERT

 

 

    I want to add something about the book but in doing so know that it will reveal part of the storyline.  So, if you don't want to know - DO NOT READ ANY FURTHER! I read some reviews online prior and in one of them the person was let down that the story wasn't more of a romance between Jill and Morgan and felt that it wasn't a positive spin on adoption. I just want to say that in no way did the fact that this wasn't a big romance novel spoil the book for me.  I found it incredibly honest, touching and so good I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. 

    As to the adoption part... I do think that adoption is a wonderful thing.  A precious gift.  I applaud all those who love their child enough to give them life and hope for a better future.  In this story, Jill and Morgan are both very young when she becomes pregnant.  And Jill does what she believes is best.  But, I do think what was written is honest.  I don't think that a mother just hands over her child lightly and forgets about the child.  I do think it is quiet logical for a mother to wonder about that child and maybe as she gets older, have regrets of giving up her child.  It has to be a struggle, one where she reminds herself that she did what was best for the child at that time. And as a Christian, has to learn to give all of this to God and share her love for that child by praying.  In this book the child was given a stable and loving home with wonderful, Christian parents. 



     As for Morgan, he really wasn't given a choice.  He wanted to keep the baby and raise it.  So he struggles with that.  I don't think he is down on adoption, but just that he is so wrapped up in that fact, that he wasn't given a choice & that he didn't get to keep the baby.  He desires to be a part of this child's life and for this child to know that he loves her and that he didn't just walk away.  Yes, maybe they could have stayed together and raised her, with the help of his family - it does happen.  There are always what ifs... we can't live in what ifs, we have to live in the present with our eyes towards the future. 
    In all honesty it is a struggle.  One that is different for each person and their situation.  But I just wanted to say that I did not come away from the book feeling as if the author was down on adoption.  Just that she was expressing what her characters might think and feel in their own situation.

    All in all, I recommend this read! 

A Rush of Wings (Book 1) by Kristen Heitzmann

    This novel not only captured and held my interest, but continued to captivate me more and more, chapter by chapter.  It was very hard to put down last night when I finally made myself stop and go to bed.  The characters and plot are intriguing, well thought out and have depth to them. 

    Heitzmann brought this novel to life with just the right dose of romance, mystery and suspense.  We are all flawed and this story portrays that, while at the same time showing that there is hope, strength and more to be found within each of us... If we will allow it. Spiritually speaking this novel had some wonderful truths to dig through.  The question of: "If God is good and in control, then how can bad things still happen?".  Also, if we truly let go and trust in God, we will not only find freedom but healing as well. All of that and much more...

    I am excited to start book two! Let me add - well done!

Return to Me (The Restoration Chronicles, Book 1) by Lynn Austin

     Lynn Austin is a gifted writer and she has yet to disappoint me.  I LOVED her bible based series, Chronicles of the Kings, so I was super excited to hear that she was starting a new bible based series!  Austin has the ability to take scripture, history, and imagination, and weave them all so beautifully together, in a captivating and timeless tale. 

    I will be honest though, the first portion of the story was a much slower paced read for me.  Interesting but not gripping.  However, you know things are going to get better and sure enough you hit a point where you just can't put the book down.  The characters come to life and you can relate with their struggles.  You desire to see these people return to God and to put Him first, and you become frustrated with those who lack the faith and strength to do so.  All the while seeing that no one is perfect and yet, God still loves us all. With God it is so much more than following rules, it is about our heart! Do we find strength in following rules, do we turn from truth or do we love and depend on God?

    I believe that Austin gave us a very good depiction of the time, cultures, situations and characters with their struggles.  She portrayed life with all the good and the bad and brought forth the truth of Scripture in these circumstances. In the end I have to say, brilliantly done! I am looking forward to Book 2!

Calm, Cool & Adjusted (Book 3, Spa Girls Series) by Kristin Billerbeck

 

 

 

      I have to say this might be my favorite of the series!  Sure Poppy is quirky but she is lovable and even if you aren't into all the natural health stuff, I am sure you can relate to her in other ways.  Poppy has some things to step back and really look at.  Pride is depleting her of joy and enjoying all the blessings available to her.  She will, at some point have to pull that plank out of her eye but then don't we all at some point or another. 

 

    Not only is Poppy's journey filled with introspection and growth, but also with some pretty "hot" guys.  This will keep you guessing through most of the story as to who is really best for her and will she figure it out or continue going it alone. 

 

    I definitely sped through this one yesterday and was very happy with the outcome!  The characters, their flaws and strengths, and the story in general made for a very good read.  So pick up Book 3 to see if Poppy can make peace with her past and her present, while embracing all that God has for her now and to come.

 

A Girl's Best Friend (Book 2, Spa Girls Series) by Kristin Billerbeck

     In all honesty Book 2 just wasn't as good of a read (to me) as Book 1.  It was a little slow at first, but somewhere near page 60 things started picking up... However, I really found myself wanting to shake Morgan.  Yes, we all have our issues and no we are not perfect.  But sometimes you really need to open up your eyes and see what is before you, AND learn from your mistakes.  Granted part of the story is that Morgan will eventually do just that, but it was a little too slow going for me, and not quiet as humorous as Book 1.  That said, I know there are others who would not agree with me, as I have read their reviews online.  To some, this was their favorite book in the series.  I guess you will just have to read it for yourself to decide!

    I will add one last thought... She did wrap things up nicely in the end and left me with a smile and satisfied with the outcome. 

She's All That (Book 1, Spa Girls Series) by Kristin Billerbeck

 

 

 

     Still in the mood for some good, light hearted and humorous reading, I decided to open up She's All That, Book 1 in Billerbeck's Spa Girls Series.  I found it to be a delightful read.  It was a little slow going at first but you will soon find Lilly not only quirky and energized but also very lovable.  She finds herself in some humorous and trying moments but thankfully has the love and support of her "Spa girls" aka best friends.  Life is certainly never dull with Lilly and I am sure you will enjoy getting to know and experience life with not only her but with the other warm and engaging characters that make up this series.

 

    So pick up Book 1 to see if Lilly can not only find her footing in the fashion world but also to see if she can manage to learn to be, who God created her to be.  And somewhere along the way make room for a little romance! All in all I found this to be a fun read. One that I breezed through yesterday, enjoying the humor and wondering which of these three guys might be the right one for Lilly?!  AND would she ever like her hair!?!

 



Split Ends: Sometimes the End is Really the Beginning by KristinBillerbeck

 

 

   

    If your looking for a fun, light, humorous, flirty book in Christian chick-lit you've found it! I really enjoyed this read.  It was cute, quirky, fun and gave me some good chuckles!  Just what I was in the mood for. 

    Sarah Claire is a character that you will see come to life and one you will be cheering for as you see her struggle to stay true to her Christian beliefs, find herself in her new job and maybe see her dreams come true!  There are times you will want to shake her for her wishy washy ways of seeing herself.  At times she wants to be more than she has been told she is; she wants to believe there is good and wonderful things for her.  Then again, she will get down on herself and believe she is a "have-not" and that she is undeserving of the chance she has before her. 

    Amidst her struggles and hilarious circumstances you will find an encouraging and hope filled story.  Wonderful characters and some nice & clean but sizzling romance top it all off to be a delightful, light read that will leave you smiling.



Glittering Promises (Book 3, The Grand Tour Series) by Lisa T. Bergren

 

 

     This was an exciting and wonderful series for so many reasons... great characters, a really good plot with some unexpected surprises, adventure, romance, a little suspense and some good faith lessons to boot!  I found that Book 3 really had a little more spiritual reflection points and lessons within it's folds.  Cora is finally coming into who she really is and that her identity is not based on where she is from, what she accomplishes, others acceptance of her nor her circumstances but that her identity is found in Christ alone. 

 

    I have to admit there were moments you would find me grinning as I flew through the pages.  And then you would find me at other moments distraught!  I wasn't sure at one point I liked what she was doing with the story and a few of it's characters.  There seemed to be some incongruities between what was transpiring in the prior books and then in book 3. HOWEVER, Bergren had me dashing through the pages to see what would happen next!  A few things were maybe hinted at earlier in the story but you were never really sure.  All I have to say now is that I applaud Bergren for her masterful tale and for leaving me very happy with the ending!  Actually, my only regret is that the series is over... Might I request a short novella to be written!  I would love to see what happens next with Cora and the rest of the crew!  Maybe it could be a novella based on one of the other characters that brings us back into the lives of those we have come to care for and cheer on!  Well, that is probably a good sign of not only a great story but wonderful characters, when you can't stand to say goodbye!

 

An exciting, fast paced and pleasurable read!

 

 

 

Grave Consequences (Book 2, The Grand Tour Series) by Lisa T. Bergren

 

 

     Another exciting, pager turner by Bergren!  Grave Consequences picks up where we left off in Book 1.  You are pulled into the story quickly, wondering what will happen with Cora, Will, Pierre and the others on this grand journey.  The characters, the plot, romance, danger and more will capture you and propel you through the pages.  As much as I wanted to savor the story I found I couldn't slow my reading pace down.

 

    I will admit in a few places I did do some skimming of sentences.  There were a few repetitive themes of Cora with her struggle over Will and her love for him and how she felt about Pierre.  And there is so much I would like to say on this subject,  but since I don't like spoilers I will try to say enough not to give too much away.  Bergren has created two suitors that readers can easily cheer for, which makes it hard as you are not sure who you want her with and at times you may lean more towards one than another.  But just like Cora you will find they are both pretty wonderful guys.  I am not sure how Bergren is going to work this all out and hoping I like the outcome.  I am not thinking that it will be a shocker who she ends up with, but at the same time Bergren has some more work to do to get me, the reader happy about the ending.

 

    There was excitement and danger lurking for the group throughout this novel.  You will see hints as to where Bergren is heading with the storyline but not enough to know how she will bring everything out into the open and work things out.  I also have to add that there is one part in the story where one of the characters mentions believing in God but that going to Church is a few times a year thing.  This had me hoping to see maybe in Book 3, some heart changes and spiritual growth for this character.  In another novel maybe seeing another character's light and life shine being an influence.  Not that God and praying to Him is not a part of this book, it is - but it is not a big theme of the book.  Really, you see Cora struggling with finding out who she is deep down and sorting through does she have to be and do what others ask and/or expect of her? Cora will have moments of introspection.  Is she clinging to her past and who she thought she was?  Is that the real her?  Has this trip and lifestyle changed her?  Can she be open to the opportunities presented to her? Will she be open to what God has for her and let Him lead her?  Circumstances are funny things... you can let them define you, trap you or you can let them refine and strengthen you, propelling you into more.

 

    More and more excitement, romance, & mystery stirred in with a dash of suspense add up to a great read!  Enjoy!