The Maid of BALLYMACOOL by Jennifer Deibel

 Ms Deibel makes Ireland come alive to all the senses.  The story of Brianna and Michael show a way of life in the early 1930s in Ireland but weave a story that goes back with a de ja vu feeling for both of them.  As the mental clouds start to lift and mysteries start to unravel there is the realization that things could change forever.  Once the reader jumps into the pages of this book it will be hard to put down.  I found it fascinating and inspirational.

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

Daughter of Eden by Jill Eileen Smith

 This book spans the life of Eve from her creation in the perfect Eden until her death in a fallen world.  This give an imaginary glimpse into her life, thoughts and emotions.  Through Eve's "voice" we come to understand what it must have been like to transition from a world without pain to one filled with unknown fears and griefs.  Yet through it all the hand of a merciful, loving and redeeming God is revealed.

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

Everything is Just Beginning by Erin Bartels

 Michael and Natalie's stories are complex and intricately woven together by music and the shared emotion of grief.  Michael's background is one of a fractured family while Natalie has had a secure foundation based on love, devotion and commitment.  While drawn to each other the glaring differences and hurdles to overcome mistrust and misunderstands seem to sabotage their relationship before it can even begin.  As they both navigate deep grief and tensions in the music arena they see things in each other that weren't evident before.  This story gives the reader an inside view of creating, recording and performing music.  The author pays special attention to what is sacrificed and how choices have far reaching affects.  The characters storylines are not fairytale but show real struggle and provide thought provoking situations the reader can apply to other areas of life even if not in the music industry.  If this book were a music album it might be considered a cross over from Christian to Mainstream.  While God is mentioned the book has a lot of raw material such as fist fights and some language.

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

Her Heart's Desire by Shelley Shepard Gray

 Her Heart's Desire by Shelley Shepard Gray was a very different type of Amish story.  It highlighted Modern Order Amish which I did not know anything about before.  This helped the story have a fresh view and not the ordinary Amish tale.  It highlighted Mary and her friends who had felt like misfits for various reasons in their Amish communities.  They meet while on vacation and develop close bonds.  Each girl must face things within themselves and also in their relationships with others that may have caused or prolonged some of what hurt them from the past.  Their friendship with each other bolsters their courage to try new things and new ways of thinking.  "Pinecraft" is a very inviting place where healing can begin.

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

The Rose and the Thistel by Laura Frantz

 This book was a historical novel set in the early 1700s when Catholics and Protestants political leanings caused dissention and utimately war in Britain.  The story is set in Scotland where Blythe has been sent by her father for protection.  I felt this book didn't give enough information for the reader to understand the tensions and fierce hatred between the two political groups.  It was also confusing about the feelings between English and Scottish citizens.  The dialogue between the main characters seemed trite.  The plot was too predictable.  This was a simple love story, which some may find sweet.  But if you're looking for a historical novel this book lacked substance.

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

The Secrets of Emberwild by Stephenia H. McGee

 This is the first book I've read by Stephenia H. McGee but it won't be the last.  The way she had two mysteries blend into one romantic tale was intriguing.  I read this book in one sitting.  This book has Southern charm but also highlights male dominance in the early 1900s.  Nora is a true heroine not only for her loyalty to her home but for fighting for her mother's rights as well as forging her own path.  What makes Silas so appealing is that he really sees Nora for who she is and respects her.  The respect is brought out fully before any romance is hinted at.  The details to the horse farm and particularly breeding and surrey racing were written into the story line in a natural and interesting way not as dry facts.  I learned a lot of interesting horse history but was also blessed by tale of courage Nora showed to be who God created her to be.

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

Anything but Plain by Suzanne Woods Fisher

 Lydie and Nathan have a long history of trust, loyalty and understanding.  When Lydie suddenly seems to prefer Nathan's older brother everyone is stunned.  Nathan is confused and devastated by the change of heart Lydie appears to have.  This book explores the physical, social and emotional impact ADHD has on a person's life.  The themes of what loyalty and being authenticy are also explored.  This book is an interesting look into the uniqueness of Amish family life and consequences of leaving the Amish faith.

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