Reviewer's Bookshelf: High as the Heavens by Kate Breslin

Book Summary (Goodreads): In 1917, Evelyn Marche is just one of many women who has been widowed by the war. A British nurse trapped in German-occupied Brussels, she spends her days working at a hospital and her nights as a waitress in her aunt and uncle's café. Eve also has a carefully guarded secret keeping her in constant danger: She's a spy working for a Belgian resistance group in league with the British Secret Service.

When a British plane crashes in Brussels Park, Eve is the first to reach the downed plane and is shocked to discover she recognizes the badly injured pilot. British RFC Captain Simon Forrester is now a prisoner of war, and Eve knows he could be shot as a spy at any time. She risks her own life to hide him from the Germans, but as the danger mounts and the secrets between them grow, their chance of survival looks grim. And even if they do make it out alive, the truth of what lies between them may be more than any love can overcome.

My thoughts...

Kate Breslin's books are packed with non-stop intensity from beginning to end. I have thoroughly enjoyed her previous two books and could hardly put them down. High as the Heavens was equally intense as the story of Evelyn Marche comes to life.

Breslin has found a sweet spot in writing books that take place during times of war. She is able to capture the sights, sounds, sacrifices, heartaches...and even the hope...that her characters experience during these difficult times in history. Even though these characters are fictional, the atmosphere could very much be true to life. I found myself physically tensing up as I was reading, I was so immersed in the dangers that Evelyn and Simon were facing. There was never a dull moment as the plot moves steadily on. There was a suspense element to the story as well, as Evelyn and the spy network she is part of try to uncover a traitor. The romantic tension increases as Eve interacts with Simon, who she knows from her past. As a Christian fiction novel, there was a spiritual element as well. It didn't seem like an afterthought or a forced part of the story, which I appreciated. For me, all the elements of a great read! If you enjoy this genre, I would definitely recommend this book.

**I received a free copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, in order to share my thoughts and opinons, which I did.**

Reviewer's Bookshelf: With You Always by Jody Hedlund

Book Summary (Amazon): When a financial crisis in 1850s New York leaves three orphaned sisters nearly destitute, the oldest, Elise Neumann, knows she must take action. She's had experience as a seamstress, and the New York Children's Aid Society has established a special service: placing out seamstresses and trade girls. Even though Elise doesn't want to leave her sisters for a job in Illinois, she realizes this may be their last chance.

The son of one of New York City's wealthiest entrepreneurs, Thornton Quincy faces a dilemma. His father is dying, and in order to decide which of his sons will inherit everything, he is requiring them to do two things in six months: build a sustainable town along the Illinois Central Railroad, and get married. Thornton is tired of standing in his twin brother's shadow and is determined to win his father's challenge. He doesn't plan on meeting a feisty young woman on his way west, though.

My thoughts...
Before you read With You Always, I would highly recommend reading the novella An Awakened Heart, which is the prequel to this novel. This novella tells the story of other characters, but it also gives some important backstory of Elise and her family. It also paints a realistic picture of the suffering and hardships of 1850s New York.

I am a big fan of Jody Hedlund, and once reason is because she can write romantic tension like no one else! While With You Always did have some romantic tension,  it had a different tone than many of her other historic novels. The plight of those trying to survive a very difficult time in history, the contrast between the wealthy and the poor, and the sacrifices families had to make in order to survive were the central themes of this novel. My heart was wrenched as Elise had to make hard choices, faced starvation, and fought to provide for the family she had to leave behind. Thorton came from a wealthy family but he was a man of character who wanted to provide jobs and a safe place for those working for him. As he and Elise cross paths and interact with each other, a relationship blossoms. I would characterize this as stronger in the historical aspect than the romantic aspect, but the plot was interesting, it evoked a wide range of emotions, and is a series I would be interested in reading more of.

**I was given a free copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, to share my personal opinions, which I did.**

Reviewer's Bookshelf: Heart on the Line by Karen Witemeyer

Book summary (Amazon): Grace Mallory is tired of running, of hiding. But when an old friend sends an after-hours telegraph transmission warning Grace that the man who has hunted her for nearly a year has discovered her location, she fears she has no choice. She can't let the villain she believes responsible for her father's death release his wrath in Harper's Station, the town that has sheltered her and blessed her with the dearest friends she's ever known.

Amos Bledsoe prefers bicycles to horses and private conversations over the telegraph wire to social gatherings with young ladies who see him as nothing more than an oddity. His telegraph companion, the mysterious Miss G, listens eagerly to his ramblings every night and delights him with tales all her own. For months, their friendship--dare he believe, courtship?--has fed his hope that he has finally found the woman God intended for him. Yet when he takes the next step to meet her in person, he discovers her life is in peril, and Amos must decide if he can shed the cocoon of his quiet nature to become the hero Grace requires.

My thoughts...I have yet to read a Karen Witemeyer book that I didn't enjoy. Heart on the Line is the second book in this series, but could also be read as a stand alone. This story includes some of the characters that I really enjoyed in the first book, but also introduces the characters of Grace and Amos.

I've read a lot of books in a western setting, and often you find some of the same plot lines. This story had the western aspects I love, but with refreshing twists and characters that were believable. I loved Grace's level-headedness even though she was forced into a dangerous situation. She wasn't a heroine that fell for any handsome face or what anyone told her, but followed her heart (and mind) in everything she did. Amos is not your typical hero, but is so likeable and has a big heart, especially for Grace. Both characters take physical and emotional risks throughout the plot that developed their character and the story. There was a spiritual connection between the characters as well, which was well integrated and didn't feel forced.

Smart, interesting characters, a lot of heart, and a western setting are just a few of the things you'll get in this new Karen Witemeyer book. Even the side plot was entertaining and held my attention. I would definitely recommend this book to readers who enjoy this genre. You really can't go wrong with Karen Witemeyer!

**I was given a free copy of this book from the publisher, via Netgalley, to share my honest opinions, which I did. **

Reviewer's Bookshelf: The Noble Servant by Melanie Dickerson

Book Summary (Goodreads): She lost everything to an evil conspiracy . . . but that loss may just give her all she ever wanted.

Since meeting Steffan, the Duke of Wolfberg, at Thornbeck Castle, Lady Magdalen has not been able to stop thinking about him. She knows—as a penniless lady with little to offer in terms of a dowry—she has no real hope of marrying such a highly titled man, so it comes as a great surprise when she receives a letter from him, asking for her hand in marriage.

But all is not what it seems at Wolfberg Castle. Steffan has been evicted by his scheming uncle, and his cousin has taken over the title of duke. Left for dead, Steffan is able to escape, and disguised as a shepherd, hopes to gain entry to the castle to claim the items that will prove he is the true Duke of Wolfberg.

Journeying to the castle, Magdalen has no idea what awaits her, but she certainly did not expect her loyal maidservant to turn on her. Forcing Magdalen to trade places with her, the servant plans to marry the duke and force Magdalen to tend the geese.

Without their respective titles—and the privileges that came with them—Steffan and Magdalen are reunited in the shepherd’s field. Together they conspire to get back their rightful titles. But they must hurry . . . or else they risk losing it all to the uncle’s evil plan.

My thoughts...I'm not very familiar with the goose girl fairy tale, so I can't really say how closely this novel followed or connected with that story. I would also mention that I'm reviewing this novel with the Young Adult (YA) categorization in mind, as I feel that this novel is more relevant for that age group.

The overall storyline of The Noble Servant was entertaining. I liked the plot twists and the way that different characters were posing as other people, so there were always different consequences happening as a result of that. The lies and corruption were not glamorized, so I felt that this was a good moral lesson that was shown in the story. It was also a very clean novel. While there was some mild romantic tension, I thought it was appropriate for a YA novel. Magdalen and Steffan's moral character grew through the story, as they learned humility through their circumstances. For those reasons, it is a novel I believe my young daughter would enjoy.

The only things that, in considering it's a YA novel, that concerned me was the way that murder was the constant threat to the characters. It seemed to be the only option in dealing with those who stood in opposition the evil characters plotting against the more virtuous one. For example, one character consistently told Magdalen if she didn't do something, she would be killed and her friend would be killed, If someone came to her aide, they would be murdered. Basically all the "good guys" were threatened to be killed. At one point even Magdalen herself found pleasure in the idea of murdering her adversary in her sleep by stabbing her in the heart. While very few killings actually took place, and the ones that did were in self-defense, I found that aspect a little intense for a YA reader. For an adult, not so much. I've read several YA novels, and many of the mainstream books in this category can be much more intense. With Christian fiction, I tend to be a little stronger with my critique.

**I received a free copy of this novel to give an honest opinion, which I did.**

Reviewer's bookshelf: "Wings of the Wind" by Connilyn Cossette

Book Summary (Amazon): Alanah, a Canaanite, is no stranger to fighting and survival. When her family is killed in battle with the Hebrews, she disguises herself and sneaks onto the battlefield to avenge her family. The one thing she never counted on was surviving. 

Tobiah, a Hebrew warrior, is shocked to find an unconscious, wounded woman among the Canaanite casualties. Compelled to bring her to a Hebrew healer back at their camp, he is soon confronted with a truth he can't ignore: the only way to protect this enemy is to marry her.

Unused to being weak and vulnerable, Alanah submits to the marriage--for now. As she comes to know and respect Tobiah and his people, however, she begins to second-guess her plans of escape. But when her past has painfully unanticipated consequences, the tentative peace she's found with Tobiah, the Hebrews, and Yahweh is shaken to the core. Can Alanah's fierce heart and strength withstand the ensuing threats to her life and all she's come to love?

My thoughts...My eyes were immediately drawn to the cover of this novel. It communicated mystery, beauty, and Biblical history...I was intrigued. I had never read a novel by Connilyn Cossette, but I wanted to take a chance with someone new. I was not disappointed! : )

This book is part of a series, but I was able to enjoy this as a stand-alone novel. I found the plot to be steady, interesting, and with a good amount of tension. I have never read a story that has taken place during the time of the Israelites in their 40 years of wandering the desert before entering into the Promised Land. Cossette opened up their world to me through this novel, portraying the struggles, hopes, and difficulties that could be associated with that time in history. I also thought the way she showed the perspectives of a Hebrew man and contrasted it with a Canaanite woman were well done.

Love, faith, war, survival, redemption...these are just some of the themes of this novel. I enjoyed reading it and would definitely recommend it!

**I received a copy of this book in order to share my thoughts and opinions, which I did.**

Reviewer's bookshelf: "True to You" by Becky Wade

Book Summary (Amazon): 

After a devastating heartbreak three years ago, genealogist and historical village owner Nora Bradford has decided that burying her nose in her work and her books is far safer than romance in the here and now.

Unlike Nora, former Navy SEAL and Medal of Honor recipient John Lawson is a modern-day man, usually 100 percent focused on the present. But when he's diagnosed with an inherited condition, he's forced to dig into the secrets of his past and his adoption as an infant, enlisting Nora to help him uncover the identity of his birth mother. 

The more time they spend together, the more this pair of opposites suspects they just might be a perfect match. However, John's already dating someone and Nora's not sure she's ready to trade her crushes on fictional heroes for the risks of a real relationship. Finding the answers they're seeking will test the limits of their identity, their faith, and their devotion to one another.

My thoughts...
When I saw that Becky Wade had a new series coming out, I was so excited! I have thoroughly enjoyed reading all of her books so far, and hoped this new series would still include the things I love: interesting plot line, romantic tension, and well constructed characters. Oh yes...you'll get all that good stuff in True to You! Not to mention another gorgeous cover!

I love Nora's character. I got a little more background from reading the novella prequel, Then Came You, but you can still read True to You as a stand alone and get her story. A lot of who Nora is was shaped by a tragic past, but also by a hopeful future with her family and relationship with God. She's portrayed as down to earth, joking with her sister about her attraction to John Lawson but never seeing it go anywhere. The honesty and humor kept the reading fun. John is also a complex character whose outward appearance portrays him as tough and disciplined with his military background, but you also see a vulnerable side....which makes him even more attractive. : )

Once again, Becky Wade has won me over and I can't wait to see what's going to happen with the rest of the Bradford sisters! I definitely recommend this one!

**I received a free copy of this book from the publisher to express my honest opinions, which I have.**

My thoughts on "Counter Culture" by David Platt

Book summary (Amazon): Revised and updated, with a new chapter on the refugee crisis.

Welcome to the front lines. Everywhere we turn, battle lines are being drawn—traditional marriage vs. gay marriage, pro-life vs. pro-choice, personal freedom vs. governmental protection. Seemingly overnight, culture has shifted to the point where right and wrong are no longer measured by universal truth but by popular opinion. And as difficult conversations about homosexuality, abortion, and religious liberty continue to inject themselves into our workplaces, our churches, our schools, and our homes, Christians everywhere are asking the same question: How are we supposed to respond to all this? In Counter Culture, New York Times bestselling author David Platt shows Christians how to actively take a stand on such issues as poverty, sex trafficking, marriage, abortion, racism, and religious liberty—and challenges us to become passionate, unwavering voices for Christ. Drawing on compelling personal accounts from around the world, Platt presents an unapologetic yet winsome call for Christians to faithfully follow Christ into the cultural battlefield in ways that will prove both costly and rewarding. The lines have been drawn. The moment has come for Christians to rise up and deliver a gospel message that’s more radical than even the most controversial issues of our day.

My thoughts...This is not my typical pleasure reading, as it tackles deep and difficult subject matter. But going deep is not necessarily a bad thing, especially when you're seeking truth in a day and age where thoughts among Christian leaders seems to go from one extreme to the other. While the Bible is always my personal authority, David Platt is a teacher and author that I've come to respect over the years. His "Secret Church" gatherings have been some of my favorite times of teaching and worship. 
    One of my struggles in today's society is seeing several figures in Christian/spiritual life take a strong stand on some Biblical truths while seeming to ignore others. I've pondered how to stand for the truths laid out in the Bible, how to stand for the Gospel, and still show those who are not believers a genuine love for who they are, right where they are. I don't want to blend in to the rest of the world, but I do want to love better. I think the title of this book speaks for itself: as Christ followers, we have to live counter-culturally. 
    Platt quotes Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in one of the chapters: "There was a time when the Church was very powerful. It was during that period when the early Christians rejoiced when they were deemed worthy to suffer for what they believed. In those days the Church was not merely a thermometer that recorded the ideas and principles of popular opinion; it was a thermostat that transformed the mores of society...But the judgement of God is upon the Church as never before. If the Church of today does not recapture the sacrificial spirit of the early Church, it will lose its authentic ring, forfeit the loyalty of millions, and be dismissed as an irrelevant social club with no meaning for the twentieth century."
    This book was a challenge to me to examine myself, areas I need to grow in, and how I can represent Christ in a culture that does not embrace Him. I would definitely recommend it!

**I received a copy from the publisher, via NetGalley, to give my honest opinions about this book, which I did.**