The Spark of Love by Amanda Cabot

For Alexandra Tarkington Texas holds the idea of freedom, new horizons and a special relationship with her father.  But things didn't turn out how she envisoned.  As rumor and suspicions follow her father he tries to get her to go back to the city.  But New York doesn't hold any allure for Alexandra any more.  She is determined to make her way in the West.  Unbenown to Alexandra the man that's captured her heart is also trying to capture her father in a possible corruption case.  As Alexandra forges her way by establishing relationships and gaining a reputation as the town's teacher she examines her motives, her heart's longing and what is really important. Set in the late 1850s Alexandra's story delves into what loyalty really means and what the cost of truth involves.

I received this book from the publishers but was not required to write a positive review.

The Prince and the Prodigal by Jill Eileen Smith

This is a different look at the popular Bible story of Joseph.  Seen from the viewpoint of Joseph but also of his brother Judah.  Detail is given to the religious traditions as well as cultural customs of the time to enrich the story.  There's a lot of complicated family interactions and relationships.  Some are hard for the modern reader to comprehend by Ms Smith takes time to develop the characters.  She also gives enough historical background to help the reader see and feel where each character is emotionally and what shapes their decisions.  Having the story of Judah gave a richer, deeper and more meaningful understanding to the story of Joseph for me.  The book kept very close to the Biblical account found in Genesis.  

I received this book from the publishers but was not required to write a positive review.

The Lady of Galway Manor by Jennifer Deibel

 The Lady of Galway Manor gives a glimpse into the unrest during 1920 in Ireland.  The friction and animosity between the British and Irish was intense.  This story demonstrates how this affected the daily lives of those people living in Ireland being "ruled" by British landlords.  The historical facts are built into a Romeo and Juliet type love story.  It takes a hard look at familial loyalty and love versus romantic love.  And asks what is true love?  The answers are found in these pages of an intriguing, action packed, story of love and loss.

I received this book from the publishers but was not required to write a positive review.

A view Most Glorious by Regina Scott

 Regina Scott takes historial information specific to the women's suffragate movement and makes it personal in the story of Coraline Baxter.  Coraline is a young woman whose mother values social standing to be of the utmost importance.  As Coraline valiantly tries to make her own path the reader sees how many obstacles stand in her way.  The way women were expected to dress or not dress.  Their speech, their mannerisms, their attitudes towards father, husbands, etc.  And above all the idea that a daughter must bow to her paarents wishes in all things and then do the same with her husband.  Coraline struggles with the idea of these social norms, her own dreams and ideas and what God would have her do.

I received this from the publishers but was not required to write a positive review.

A Season in the Wind by Suzanne Fisher Woods

 This is one of the most unique themes for an Amish based book. This story brings to life the fascinating aspects of bird watching from the amanteur and professional viewpoint.  As Ben and Penny grapple with reality, dreams and preconceived notions they also seem to set into motion a wave of healing with far greater impact than they can imagine.  This book kept my interest word by word.  I completed it in one sitting.  Ms Woods will not disappoint as a master storyteller.  This book is powerful in the themes of trusting God's timing and purposes, forgiveness and reconciliation.

I received this book from the publishers but was not required to write a positive review.

The Healing of Natalie Curtis by Jane Kirpatrick

 Natalie Curtis is a noteworthy woman.  What she set out to achieve for Native Americans in the early 1900s is astonishing.  I found the information in this book awe inspiring.  However, the delivery of the information was not riveting.  I found myself hurrying through the pages to get to the conclusion rather than because it was a fascinating page turner.  Still I found this book impactful for making me aware of Ms Curtis' contributions and loving relationship with the Native Americans.  The book helped me understand more fully the incredible injustices done to the Native Americans.  

I received this book from the publishers but was not required to write a positive review.

The Secret Keepers of Old Depot Grocery by Amanda Cox

This is a soul deep story of generational secrets that created a family that gave blessings but also pain.  Through the twists and turbulence of desperation to keep and uncover family secrets there is an unexpected healing.  This healing comes as a grandmother, daughter and granddaughter learn what to hold on to and what to let go of.  The story also emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and allowing trusted people in your life in emotionally.  This is a well crafted book in regards to character development, plot and spiritual and emotional depth.

I received this book from the publishers but was not required to write a positive review.