Rose Under Fire by Elizabeth Wein

When I first heard about Rose Under Fire, I wasn't sure I was going to actually read it. Like so many reviews floating around have said, and Iris said so well, I have WWII fatigue. I thought Code Name Verity was a rare one off...the world war 2 book I still managed to fall for, feel deeply, and love.

But circumstances led to me reading it after all and I quickly became engaged with the story and ended up loving it. This is not a sequel to Code Name Verity, although Maddie is present, it's Rose's story. Rose is an American pilot who has something unfortunate happen to her on a flight which leads to her spending some time at a concentration camp. There she meets women who change her life and as much as this story is about survival, and World War II, it's also about close friendships and what we mean to each other.

I want to first discuss a few things I think Rose Under Fire does really well and then I want to discuss why that's important to me in light of some of the grumbling I've seen in other reviews. (this is why I should never read other reviews first, it makes me reactionary!)

One of the things Wein skillfully does is show pre-camp naive Rose who can barely believe the war is real vs. post-Camp Rose who has survived the worst humanity can do. She also writes these friendships in a very believable way...these women were surviving together and knew each other in ways human are rarely supposed to. There's a part where Rose talks about how you can love them so much but they also drive you crazy. She also shows the chaos of the organization, there's just no sure thing in war, nothing you can bank on. Even though things should go a certain way it doesn't mean they will. And even with limited resources people have a tremendous capacity to be cruel. And lastly, something Ana has already written about better than I ever could (as is usually the case!), is that Rose Under Fire is about how there are different ways to survive and just because society might expect one reaction or path, it doesn't mean you have to take it.

So I think Rose Under Fire is many things and a very good book.

Now I've seen some criticism? about how this book is a tired story of a privileged girl who falls into bad times. Wouldn't it be more interesting or better if someone else had narrated this same story? I'm not disagreeing with the idea that there might be an overabundance of stories like this, and yes I know this is fiction but I am always uncomfortable with the idea that there are ever too many stories. The idea of there being too many Holocaust stories is one I've heard before but I just can't agree because not every story is for every person, etc.

Secondly, there's a reason privileged protagonists exist and part of that reason is the feeling that "it could never happen to me." But when the protagonist is someone you can identify with closely, it's easier to begin to believe that it could. One of my absolute favorite parts of My Hands Came Away Red is when Cori is just stunned that people are trying to kill them and she has no comprehension of how people could be trying to hurt her, WHY WOULD THEY WANT TO. Part of what makes these stories effective is that terrible things happen to everyone, war happens to everyone, being rich, white, American won't save you.

Now, obviously that's not to say that I don't think stories about girls from underprivileged backgrounds aren't needed, they are! I just think Rose Under Fire has a lot to offer that is unique and relevant, that it actually stands apart from the crowd for reasons of its own.

In very general terms, I do agree with the idea about fatigue over World War II stories from an American/European perspective. I crave more stories about the war in Asia, for example. And I hope to bring some reading suggestions on that topic, soon!

Anyway, really great book, recommended!

Review: Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein

It's like being in love, discovering your best friend.

I don't really like World War II stories. And it's not because they are bad or whatever, it's just that I think I've had an oversaturation of them. There are so many WWII stories out there and most of the ones I've been exposed to are told from a European or American perspective. Admittedly, I still have an interest in stories about the Asia Pacific part of the war and also even the Russian part. Or the experience of Japanese Americans in the States. Anyway, point is, a book about World War II in England is just not that interesting to me on the premise alone.

So despite a few early glowing reviews, I was just not that interested in Code Name Verity. (also I didn't like the title, tbh) But...I don't know I've been having such a rough reading year and the reviews were all SO good and then Ana mentioned in her review that it had some of the things I enjoy and look for in story...so I decided to give it a shot. I'm so glad I did, because despite the fact that this book feels very English and very World War II, I loved it.

I'm not going to bother with the premise too much because I agree it's best to go into this book knowing as little as possible. It does start a little slowly with a lot of details about planes and other confusing (kind of boring) things. But not in any way that's a slog to get through, just...the book isn't immediately riveting. It has a very beautiful and deep friendship at its heart, the kind that will make your heart explode. I mean this is what I'm talking about when I say I long for deep complex relationships that aren't romances in stories.

And it's exciting and it plays with your mind. And it's so heartfelt, but also goes all the places it needs to go. And the language is beautiful! And I think there are all kinds of other interesting things going on in the book--it's very rich. The sense of war and doom pervades the story, but so does the existence of hope.

There aren't a lot of books that I've really loved this year, but Code Name Verity is one that I really loved reading and completely enjoyed. Short review, I know, but what else can I say that hasn't been said? Read it!

Rating: 4.75/5
Source of Book: egalley
Publisher: Hyperion

Review: Incognito by Gregory Murphy

First of all, it must be said that Berkley has some of the most stunning and lovely book covers that the computer screen does not do justice to. When I received this book in the mail I was immediately more interested in it than before because the cover is absolutely enticing, really evoking a sense of mystery.

And I was more pulled in when I started reading, because it's set in what is apparently The Gilded Age...a time period I enjoy reading about in New York City. Incognito tells the story of William Dysart, an attorney trapped in a loveless marriage who has no idea how to pull himself out of the miserable life he has created for himself. He is assigned a case where he meets a beautiful woman who he immediately has an interest in. He's curious about her reasons for not wanting to sell her land to a woman powerful enough to chase her off of it anyway. He feels there is more to the story than he is being told. Additionally, he is beginning to remember and uncover things about his own past that are causing him to question his present and future.

Incognito is described as a mystery and while there are certainly mysterious elements to the story, I feel it is more accurately described as the journey of one man to transform himself. I couldn't help but be very involved in the story. I felt deeply for William and while his choices at times frustrated me, I understood his motivations. I really liked so many things about the book, for example, the way he at first found Sybil only pretty but as he got to know her he began to wonder how he had never considered her beautiful. I liked that William at times feels downright despair, a fear of being in love having led him to the most miserable of all marriages, and his pursuit for justice. And yet he's almost unwilling to do anything about getting out of it. Because a lot of times when you're down and depressed it's just a lot more comfortable to stay that way. I even liked that the mystery is quite a slow burn because the characterization more important, even though characters like Arabella were quite one dimensional. I especially enjoyed visiting the time period in the book, and seeing William learn a new story to tell himself about his past.

Incognito makes a great afternoon read if you want to visit the lives of the wealthy in New York city in the past, enjoy a little mystery, and at times, some very lovely writing.

Rating: 4.25/5
Things You Might Want to Know: Some sex
Source of Book: Review copy received from publisher
Publisher: Berkley (Penguin)

Review: Lady in the Mist by Laurie Alice Eakes

Tabitha Eckles is a unique midwife for her time (early 1800's). She is unmarried and without children and that's a bit of a no-no for the culture she lives in--she gets away with it, because the area simply doesn't have anyone else to turn to for medical help. Since she needs to know the secrets of the patients she treats, she seems to be a constant threat to them.

Another threat looms for the area, though. Tensions are thick between Britain and the United States and Britain, being a much more powerful country is constantly pressing men into service. It would seem most of these men have some ties to Britain, but they are disappearing and being kidnapped off their shores.

Tabitha is very concerned about this and can't help but suspect Dominick Cherrett of being involved when she meets him--he's paying off a debt as a household slave, but she often sees him out of the house when he shouldn't be. Her feelings are complicated, though, because she develops quite an attraction to him. To make things even more confusing for Tabitha personally, her ex-fiance comes back after being away for two years fighting for the British in the war. Raleigh hopes to win her back, but Tabitha is keeping her heart in check--even though his appearance is vastly improved.

I enjoyed Lady in the Mist, but I have to admit it's not what I was expecting. The book is part of a series of books on midwives and so I expected more of the drama to come from the birthing of babies. But it seemed in many ways incidental to the plot. It was interesting, because it gave Tabitha a non-traditional source of income as a woman and there were some interesting parts of the book when this really became a problem. I couldn't help but feel enraged when the men hold a meeting to determine whether or not she should be allowed to continue with her duties, despite the fact that she was the only skilled for it and that such personal issues as whether or not she was married and how she conducted herself had any bearing on things whatsoever.

I did enjoy the plot around the men being pressed into naval service, since it's something I never thought about before. So this was an interesting storyline to explore.

I have to say that while the writing was fine for the most part, there were a few over the top metaphors. Another thing that bothered me was that several chapters ended in a sort of cliff-hanger and the story picked up significantly later. This really weakened the tension in the story, because so many scenes that should have been rich with drama and conflict took place off page.

Even so, this was a nice easy read, and enjoyable in many ways. It's definitely old-school Christian fiction in that there's a clear literal arc of returning to God for the characters. I do have to say that when Raleigh thinks his returning will help Tabitha see God is still at work in her life, I had to laugh at the arrogance, and also the sad fact that many people do actually think of themselves in this way.

Rating: 3.75/5
Things You might Want to Know: Christian fiction
Source of Book: Review copy received from publisher
Publisher: Revell a division of Baker Books

Review: The Tudor Secret by C.W. Gortner

C.W. Gortner is one of my go-to authors when it comes to historical fiction. He has a knack for bringing the setting to life and creating characters that feel real and pop off the page. This is, in my opinion, no easy task because the periods of history he covers have quite complicated political issues. So bringing that to a level the casual history fan can enjoy while also telling a great story takes real skill.

I knew The Tudor Secret was different from his other books I've read, it's narrated by a fictional character and while the events that take place are based in reality much is fabricated--this is a spy novel! That didn't stop me from completely enjoying it, though.

Brendan Prescott is a foundling, an orphan, raised in the Dudley household. When brought to court, he quickly finds favor with many people for his honesty and trustworthiness, which lands him a position as a spy. Fortunately, this works out for him as he is also enamored of Elizabeth the First and wants to help protect her from those scheming against her. As he works to protect her and fulfill his mission, he soon discovers his own life is in danger for reasons he never suspected. All is not what it seems.

I completely enjoyed The Tudor Secret. Once again, I fully bought into the time period and world Gortner created, I enjoyed the character of Brendan and I really enjoyed all of the relationships that formed between the characters. The plot moves speedily along and I was surprised by how quickly the book passed by. While I knew the basic history involved, the story is still fresh in its telling and imagining. There's even a bit of a love story!

One of the things I think is interesting about novels like this is the different ways royalty is presented. Sometimes the royalty is seen by the characters as being wonderful...they would gladly give their lives in service, while at other times the demands on their personal lives are so great, they truly resent them. Since I'd read a book that depicted Elizabeth as quite cruel, it was interesting to read this take of her as charming in her own way. Her strength obviously drew certain people to her. Even so, it's amazing with their complicated family histories that they weren't even more messed up!

I recommend The Tudor Secret to historical fiction fans, but also fans of fast paced interesting mysteries set in a different time and place.

Rating: 4.5/5
Things You Might Want to Know: A wee bit of profanity and sex
Source of Book: Sent from the author for review
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin

Review: The Preacher's Bride by Jody Hedlund

When John Costin's young wife dies and leaves behind a young baby, Elizabeth Whitbread is determined to save the child's life--even if it means finding a wet nurse the elders in her church don't agree with. She also accepts a position as John's housekeeper and cares for the children during the day while John goes about preaching. She accepts this as her calling from the Lord, but soon falls in love with the children and feels a deep attraction to their father. But she's already agreed to marry another man and doesn't believe herself attractive enough to win John Costin's heart.

John feels a calling to preach even though it angers the Anglican church. He is repected by his Puritan community but the tensions in the country are thick between the Anglicans and the Puritans...and the Puritans are losing ground. John's vocation is putting the lives of those around him at risk from his enemies..including Elizabeth's.

When I picked up this book and started reading I absolutely hated to put it down. I was quickly sucked into John and Elizabeth's world and cheering on their romance! I also found the historical climate fascinating. I haven't read much about the Puritans, I think they are regrettably best remembered for the Salem Witch Trials, but I never spent much time thinking about why exactly they fled England for the States. It was interesting to read a story set in that time period.

Elizabeth is a very likable heroine if not a bit too perfect. She's a hard worker, she seems to act selflessly, though she does get a bit caught up in the performance trap. What I liked best about her was her refusal to shun the poor and instead she attempted to associate with them and help them. John was also very interesting and while I wanted to smack him a time or two, I did enjoy his story.

This is a very compulsive read, with fantastic romantic tension and suspense. The pacing is brisk and the characters recognizable. There's a fair bit of God talk but I feel it was somewhat authentic to the time period and the characters.

I was pleased to learn upon finishing the book that this is Jody Hedlund's imagined John and Elizabeth Bunyan. It was interesting and made more sense to me why the book was set when it was. She includes what's real in an author note in the back, but is clear to say that this is work of fiction.


Rating: 4.5/5
Things You Might Want to Know: Christian fiction
Source of Book: Review copy from publisher
Publisher: Bethany House (Baker Books)

Review: While We're Far Apart by Lynn Austin

For years now, I've been hearing how wonderful Lynn Austin's books are. And while I've had a few on the TBR pile, I haven't managed to squeeze them into my schedule. This year, I decided, would be different and made it a point to read her new release, While We're Far Apart. I love the title and the cover. And I ended up loving the book.

But I didn't at first. At first, I struggled to get into it. A good 150 pages I think. Let me explain why I think that is.

While We're Far Apart focuses primarily on three main characters and with little deviation devotes chapters to each of their perspectives in order, starting with 12 year old Esther Shaffer. Esther's father signs up to go to war and Esther and her younger brother, Peter, are devastated. It hasn't been that long since their mother died unexpectedly. She feels betrayed and alone. She doesn't want to stay with their grandmother who is ravaged with fear that all three of her sons are at war. Her duplex is so cluttered there's no room for the children, Esther believes.

Enter Penny. Penny has always secretly harbored a crush on Eddie, Esther's father. She volunteers to watch the children in their apartment. Penny lives with her elderly parents who also live in constant fear and don't give Penny much of a life. So even though Esther resents Penny's interference, this arrangement is struck.

Finally, there is Jacob Mendel, the Shaffer's landlord. His wife died alongside Esther and Peter's mother. His son is in Hungary, a place threatened by the growing influence of the Nazis. He spends all of his time trying to figure out what has happened to his family.

While We're Far Apart is how all three of these individuals start in a place of loneliness and fear, and how through various circumstances they come together. It's about how we make new families of our choosing, how our burdens are best carried alongside others, and about having faith even when you are angry at God and certain He isn't working.

It's set during World War II, and I'm actually not a huge fan of this time period. I think I have read so many stories set during this time period that I'm only interested when it's something really fresh. Additionally, the prose is not spectacular. It's not bad, it's just very functional. I think these were my main barriers to the book, though the beginning does start out slowly, as Austin lays the groundwork for her story.

But I started to feel affection for these characters. I think that's the strength of this novel, the characterization. These are people you can imagine really existing, people just living their lives and trying to get through World War II, and all of the other things life has thrown at them.

I also really really loved the realistic portrayal of American attitudes towards Jews. There's no sanitizing history, but rather the fear, and inaction of the American government towards what was happening is clearly shown. Sometimes there's a tendency to look at World War II through rose colored glasses, because it's a war that had the world's favor so to say. But the thing is, it was war and there are no purely "good guys". War is messy and unpredictable and as such there are terrible things done on all sides. I wish it was owned more often. I just love that there was not glorifying of America done here.

But perhaps what I loved the most was the rich portrayal of faith and community. And I don't necessarily mean faith community, but the way faith and community blended in unexpected ways. Some of my favorite scenes, scenes that moved me to tears were when Jacob Mendel taught Esther and Peter about the Jewish stories and holidays and they celebrated them together. I love that this orthodox Jewish man, so angry at God, felt his heart soften and the first feelings of comfort in observing the rituals of his faith with Christian children. I loved the relationship between these three and Penny, the way a little family formed between these broken hearted, uncertain people. These stories, stories of people finding new ways forward and new family amongst others always move me.

So I really enjoyed this book, for the characters I grew to love, for the hope and faith found within the pages, for the gentle reminder it was to me, that God works even when it seems He is silent. This is definitely an emotionally satisfying read.

Rating: 4.5/5
Things You Might Want to Know: Christian fiction, though most of the faith emphasis is Jewish
Source of Book: Received from publisher for review
Publisher: Bethany House

Review: Within My Heart by Tamera Alexander

One thing I've learned in recent months...if I'm not a little scared inside, then I'm probably not where God wants me to be.
I used to say I love romance novels but I've found it hard to read them in the last year. Some of the tropes and language made me roll my eyes and almost give up on the genre altogether. In truth, I like nothing more than a sweeping, epic love story but the romances I read weren't doing much for me. (although I read some winners for the INSPYs but in order to refrain from influencing the judges I won't say anything about them!)

I do however, love Tamera Alexander's books I've read and was looking forward to reading her newest book, Within My Heart. I felt a little bit nervous, wondering if I'd enjoy it in the same way, or if I was done with romance altogether.

I'm so happy to say that I'm not done with romance altogether. In fact, if all romance novels were like this one, I'd probably read little else. Yes, it was that good. Let me tell you why.

Within My Heart is the third book in Alexander's Timber Ridge Reflections, but it can be read as a standalone. I had been introduced to both the hero and heroine in the other books and was very eager for their story as they both intrigued me. Rachel Boyd is a young widow and a fierce woman. Having lost the love of her life at a young age, she's determined to raise her two sons on the ranch that was her husband's dream. Times are tough, her cattle are dying in the bitter cold weather and she's behind on payments. But she has the goodwill of the town on her side.

Rand Brookston is a the town's single young doctor. He has tremendous compassion for his patients and a desire to open a clinic that will better serve them. He doesn't have the funds for it, his patients pay in meat and discarded garments, but he's daring and bold and willing to do what he can to save them.

What brings Rachel and Rand together is the care of Ben Mullins, the owner of the general store who has suffered a heart attack. With his health on the severe decline, Rand is determined to do everything he can to extend the time Ben has with his wife, Lyda. Rachel is also committed to his care, since he's a surrogate father to her sons. Taking care of Ben forges a friendship between these Rand and Rachel.

First of all, I absolutely loved both Rachel and Rand. Their relationship doesn't develop quickly, but slowly throughout the book. In this sense, it's incredibly believable and feels so real. As they fall in love with each other, we as readers fall in love with them.

And they are characters of incredible depth. Both are battling huge fears in their lives and in some ways just fighting to stay afloat. Rachel has her hands absolutely full and I couldn't help but admire her as she worked to make the right decisions, to let go of the past, to take brave steps to move forward. And Rand was incredibly patient as well and admirably willing to recognize his faults when Rachel pointed them out.

One of the things I most admire about this book as a romance is that the love between Rand and Rachel makes them both better people. No they aren't dependent on each other for life, or angsty and desperate, but they genuinely bring out the best in each other. Rachel helps Rand recognize his arrogance and face his fears. Rand supports Rachel in recognizing what her dreams are and always always always treats her as an equal partner in work. I love this so much.

And the writing! The writing is so precise and perceptive. Such as this when Rachel watches the sunset:
"A longing took hold deep inside, one both fresh and ancient, familiar yet unfathomable."
Or this:
"In the moment Rand's arms came around her, she knew it didn't matter whether death came suddenly, without warning, or whether it came slowly, giving you time to memorize the sound of its footsteps and the hollow cadence of its march. Whichever way death came, and however much she believed that the grave held no lasting victory, the same terrible rending tore deep down inside, severing what was from what would never be again."

Within My Heart is about so much more than two people falling in love. It's about celebrating life, about living it to its fullest, about stepping out in faith even when fear holds you in its grip, it's about saying goodbye to the people you love. It's beautiful, gorgeously written, layered, and utterly and completely delightful.

A good book asks you to join in on the journey of the characters. I gave my heart and soul to Rachel and Rand's journey, and I was not disappointed. In fact, as embarrassing as it is to say, I cried a few tears of joy at the end. It is a beautiful heartfelt story and the very best kind.

Rating: 5/5
Things You Might Want to Know: Christian fiction. And while the faith is subtle and natural it is absolutely present
Source of Book: Received from publisher for review
Publisher: Bethany House (Baker)

Review: Valeria's Cross by Kathi Macias and Susan Wales

Valeria is the daughter of the Emperor Diocletian. When he sends her and her mother to Egypt, they learn of the Christian faith and convert. Valeria falls in love with a handsome warrior and the two hope to get married. Unfortunately, Rome is not interested in the Christian faith and Mauritius ends up dying a martyr's death. Grief stricken, Valeria is horrified to learn that her father has arranged for her to marry the man responsible for her true love's death.

The premise of this story is pretty amazing. I really love learning about the different time periods in history and the religious tensions. I love the early church as well and boiling everything down to such a personal story seems like a great idea.

And while this book is fine, I think perhaps the scope was too ambitious. I never really felt like I got inside the time period in a vibrant way which is so key to my enjoyment of historical fiction. There isn't a lot of detail and I often felt outside of the story. I had a hard time coming to a place where I really got Valeria and cared about what happened to her. One place where this would have really been key was her love with Mauritius. Unfortunately, they told each other they loved each other like the second time they met and I felt more like I was being told about their relationship than really feeling it or experiencing it. This lessened the eventual emotional impact of what happens.

I probably sound really down on this book and I think the biggest problem was that I had high hopes for it based on the amazing premise. I suspect it will work just fine for most lovers of Christian historical fiction.

Rating: 3/5
Things You Might Want to Know: Christian fiction
Source of Book: Received from publisher for review
Publisher: Abingdon Press

Review: Picture the Dead by Adele Griffin and illustrated by Lisa Brown

Reading Gone with the Wind did a number on me this year, and made me a lot more interested in reading other books set during the Civil War. When I first heard about Picture the Dead, a book combining both the Civil War and spiritualist photography I was eager to read it. The icing on the cake was having the chance to interview both Adele Griffin and Lisa Brown for the first episode of the Underground Literary Society podcast I co-host with Nicole of Linus's Blanket.

The Civil War actually plays a relatively minor role in the book. It does set up the ability to explore certain ideas and frame the time of the story, but it is many ways simply a background to the individual tale of grief and loss Jennie experiences. She has lost the love of her life in the Civil War. She has previously lost her parents and is at the mercy of her relatives who have no strong feelings of goodwill towards her. Her standing with them changes throughout the story.

The family goes to a spirit photographer and Jennie believes she sees a ghost. She thinks the ghost is leading her on a path to solve a mystery and she begins investigating.

I enjoyed Picture the Dead for a few reasons. I really enjoyed the exploration of how the world was changing for the United States at the time with the advent of photography and being able to record images of loved ones as well as the first time the country experiences such massive loss. I found the pictures to be an interesting touch and they contain clues to the story as well. I have to admit to feeling a bit disappointed it wasn't a little creepier, and even though the book isn't long, I still felt the story could have been condensed a little bit. But it was still an enjoyable read and a different kind of story.

Rating: 3.5/5
Source of Book: ARC received from publisher for review
Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire

Review: The Confessions of Catherine de Medici by C.W. Gortner

Once upon a time, the idea of reading books about kings and queens from long ago seemed about the most dull prospect on the planet to me. For some reason, I was completely ignorant to the fact that their stories were the stuff of soap operas, political thrillers, and lives of the rich and famous combined. Then I read one, loved it, and proceeded to overdose on this kind of historical fiction. I quickly learned, however, that it takes a special kind of writer with a special gift to bring these stories to life. C.W. Gortner is one of those writers, and I had no hesitation in reading his newest release, The Confessions of Catherine de Medici.

Here's where I mention I'm still pretty ignorant of the history of all these kings and queens. I don't know the history very well, and I enjoy learning more about it from books like this one. It just so happens that Catherine de Medici lived during intense religious conflict in France, and that elevated my interest in this narrative quite a bit.

Catherine de Medici was born in Italy but pledged to a prince of France at a young age. Her husband, Henri had little interest in her and thus begins the sort of compelling narrative of a woman trying to secure her future when a man will have nothing to do with her! She does however, bare him many children, and many of those children met with sad fates.

I don't want to give away too much, so I'll talk about some of the things I enjoyed. I enjoyed that this story took place in France, much of it in the Loire valley, so when specific castles were mentioned, I could actually visualize them, having been there. I could visualize Chenonceau and understand why it was such a prize and beloved by Catherine. I could visualize Amboise and Blois. Funny enough, even though I could imagine these places, it made me want to go back! I think this is the first of all these kinds of historical fiction books I've read that took place in France and my familiarity with France increased my appreciation of the book.

I also found the religious history fascinating. I have always been fascinated by the Huguenots, as I am by any period of religious persecution. I have to admit to feeling shocked over how Catholics and Protestants can wage war on each other when they are both variations of the same faith. A peace loving faith I might add. I think in reality you're hard pressed to demonstrate how "turn the other cheek" means kill everyone who refuses to convert to your understanding, but that's what you get when you mix political power with faith. The persecution was really ugly and the Huguenots were certainly not blameless, as they built an army themselves. The way this all unfolded was interesting, especially as Catherine was a Catholic, but admits she sees religion as a way of keeping things from being chaotic (oh really?) and doesn't seem to grasp the heart of faith, and what it means to true believers. Even so, she often fought for compromise and ways to prevent the persecution and killing.

I became completely engrossed in this book and in the life of Catherine. I was interested to read she was quite feared and rather hated in the author's notes at the end, when it really seemed as if she did want to establish peace. Even with her longing to establish peace, however, she was a woman who cherished her political power and influence and worked to exert it.

I also loved Gortner's The Last Queen and I hope I don't have to wait too long to find out about which fantastic life he will illuminate next.

Rating: 4.5/5
Things You Might Want to Know: Explicit sex, a tiny bit of profanity
Source of Book: Received from Publisher for review
Publisher: Ballantine Books (Random House)

Review: My Name is Mary Sutter by Robin Oliveira

Mary Sutter is a young mid-wife whose story begins right before the Civil War starts. She's got a very inquisitive mind and thirst for knowledge, but since she's a woman, she's facing huge obstacles in her path and desire to become a surgeon. No surgeon wants to take her under their wing to show her the ropes.

Also Mary has a twin sister who is more attractive than she is and this brings some level of conflict to their relationship, especially as they both cast their eye on the same man. But war is looming and change is afloat and soon Mary must make some bold decisions to determine the course of her future.

I enjoyed reading Mary's story a great deal. I really enjoyed reading about the medical conditions of the time, I thought the portrayal of the lack of preparedness of the country for the Civil War was well written and particularly striking, there are some truly horrifying scenes. I also found Mary's drive to be compelling reading. My favorite parts of the book centered around Mary and her family.

Oliveira chooses to share the perspectives of many different characters throughout the book, including many historical figures. This detracted from my enjoyment of the book a bit. My primary interest was in Mary, but many other perspectives were shared. Also, I personally thought the story lost some of the energy near the end.

Even so, it's a good book that should appeal to readers interested in the history ofmedicine, war-time medicine, the advancement of women's rights, and the Civil War.

Rating: 4.25/5
Things You Might Want to Know: a little bit of profanity
Source of Book: Received from publisher for review
Publisher: Viking Penguin

Review: Daughters of the Witching Hill by Mary Sharratt

In the 1580s, Bess Southerns meets her familiar spirit, Tibb, who trains her in how to become a cunning woman. The skills she learns enable her impoverished family to get by. She hasn't had much of a happy life being married to a man who didn't love her and having a daughter who is not quite beautiful.

She trains others in what she learns but tensions are high. Accusations get made, betrayals sting deep, and what unfolds is a rich story of passion, friendship, love, and sorrow.

I have to confess it took awhile for me to get in the mindset of this older time. So in a way, this book was a slow burn for me. It took some time for me to start feeling affection for the characters but once I did, I really enjoyed reading about how their lives unfolded. I especially enjoyed learning about their time period and the loyalties they built.

The story opens being told from the viewpoint of Bess Southerns but over half of the book is told from the perspective of Alizon, her granddaughter. What was very interesting to me about this story was the folk magic form of Catholicism the accused witches believed in. And as always, I was touched by the continuing practice of a forbidden religion. Faith that is so deeply woven into one's life that they risk their life to continue to believe always inspires me.

The author includes an extensive note in the back of the book to explain the decisions she made in story-telling. I found this very interesting to read, especially to read about Bess Southerns confession. I believe her confession is the reason the author chose to tell the story in this way.

A very interesting and different piece of historical fiction based on true events.

Rating: 4.25/5
Things You Might Want to Know: well, witchcraft.
Source of Book: Received from publisher for review
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Review: Claude & Camille by Stephanie Cowell

When Claude Monet was a young man starting out, he was very much a starving artist. His style was new, and not yet accepted by art circles, but he was fortunate to have a group of friends with a similar style and talent to work with. They all desperately hoped that their paintings would be featured and sold and they all struggled with their parents and families over whether or not they should even be painting. One day, Claude meets Camille a beautiful and well bred young woman he falls in love with. She is also quite passionate and falls in love with him and is willing to leave her family to live with him without getting married. This book is their love story and also the story of a man committed to his art.

I had a little trouble getting into the book at first since it seemed to quickly skip through time, but that settled down a few chapters in I became engrossed in the story. I have to admit that I loved reading about the young artists, and their big huge belief in each other's work, the way they were all starving and scraping to get to by, and so amazingly devoted to their style. While I think that would be hard hard to deal with as a loved one, there's something so appealing to me about that kind of single focused passion. I also really liked the character of Camille at the beginning of the book, but she also had her fits of passion that started to annoy me at times later on in the story. Inevitably, things begin to unravel, friendships get tested, and love is cast aside and when I came across those parts in this book, I couldn't help but feel such loss.

I wonder sometimes when I look at the beautiful paintings of Monet we have and all that he had to go through to bring that kind of beauty to the world. It's so easy to judge what artists do, yet we need them to have that kind of drive in order for us to have such great works. This book really has made me think a lot about creativity and devotion to it and also the role that community plays in creation. I really enjoyed that aspect of it.

Overall, I thought this was an interesting book that exposed me to some new history and has made me want to go back and learn about these painters. So as historical fiction, it truly succeeded.

Rating: 4.25/5
Things You Might want to Know: sex
Source of Book: Received from publisher for review
Publisher: Crown

Review: A Distant Melody by Sarah Sundin

Allie has never been considered beautiful by her family, but it doesn't really matter in the love department because she's also in somewhat of an arranged marriage...her parents want her to marry their handpicked guy to take over their extremely successful business. Allie has been dating him for years and this is very much expected of her. However, Allie doesn't love Baxter and has no real affection for him.

When Allie goes to her friend Betty's wedding, she meets Walter Novak, a young pilot fighting in World War II. Allie and Walt hit it off, but Allie doesn't really tell him about Baxter and just gets caught up in the new friendship. When Walt learns about Baxter, he still asks for Allie's permission to write her letters and their correspondence and relationship grows from there.

I didn't love this book. But first the good....Allie lived in Riverside! I lived in Riverside for a little while before moving to nearby Corona. I have to admit I struggled when Allie called Riverside the most beautiful city in California, but I suspect it used to be much prettier when there were more orange groves and the buildings were newer. It does have the lovely view of the mountains after all. ;)

The history was interesting and I enjoyed that aspect as well. Plus Allie makes some tough independent choices that I enjoyed seeing.

I found the characters to be mostly one dimensional, though, and Allie annoyed me from the get-go. The book felt a bit preachy to me, and the usual vices were presented as clear signs of ungodliness (pornography, drinking, etc.) while the lying the main characters did was seen much more sympathetically. The evangelical tradition of Christianity was shown as being superior to other forms as well. These are huge pet peeves of mine, as you may know.

But the thing that really bugged me in the book was Baxter and his questionable relationship with Allie. It's suggested that Baxter is actually a homosexual and using Allie to both get her inheritance and to cover up his own sexuality. This is very much a subplot and not fully developed but the more I thought about it, the more it bugged me. First of all, it's suggested albeit briefly that perhaps Allie's father and Baxter have a relationship. And this would actually make a HUGE amount of sense in the way Allie's mother treats her and seems starved for her husband's full attention. And even in the way she pushes Allie to marry Baxter. However, the problem is that once again in Christian fiction, a possible GLBT character is portrayed very one dimensionally. (thankfully so are most of the other characters) And while I can certainly imagine this scenario actually happening, a little fleshing out of the characters would have made it far more interesting and forgiveable. Furthermore, it seems that more Christian fiction is finally willing to recognize that being gay is not a choice. So I'd love to see some more books written across the spectrum of beliefs with GLBT characters. Am I dreaming? Probably. I know many of you also don't agree with my stand on homosexuality so you may have no issues with this in the book at all.

I think if you're interested in a sweet very much Christian fiction love story that takes place during World War II, you might enjoy this book. Deborah certainly liked it more than I did.

Rating: 2.5/5
Things You Might Want to Know: This is very much Christian fiction classic
Source of Book: Provided by publicist for review
Publisher: Revell

From the publicist:
A Distant Melody, Book 1 in Sarah Sundin’s exciting Wings of Glory series, is in stores now! To celebrate the release, we’re offering one Grand Prize winner the chance to get NOSTALGIC!



THE PRIZE:
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*A 6 month NETFLIX® subscription
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*A box of See’s Famous Old Time Chocolates®
*A jar of homemade strawberry jam
*A Big Band music CD
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To enter just click on the icon above! Contest will be live April 5th and run through April 25th!

Review: She Walks in Beauty by Siri Mitchell

One of the huge benefits of reading novels is the way they bring certain time periods to life. It's amazing to me that I can know something from a factual standpoint, but until it's embedded within a story and affects the lives of made-up people I've come feel affection for, it never feels real. I suppose it's the same way we can know about war or the outsourcing of jobs or the terrible struggle immigrants face trying to become legal, but until it's happening to someone we know and love it's just something out there. When it affects the lives of people we love, it becomes real.

I loved She Walks in Beauty for this very reason. It takes place in the late 1800's in New York City and focuses on the season...the debut of all the lovely young eligible society women. Really it doesn't sound all that interesting, but it's by Siri Mitchell, one of my favorite authors who is exceptionally gifted in bringing settings to life. So I looked forward to it and not surprisingly, was swept into the story.

When the De Vries return to the States from Europe early, Clara Carter's aunt decides she'll be debuting a season early...in order to snag the heir for her husband. Clara is very upset about this decision. Her tutor hasn't really been educating her in how to be a lady, but rather actually educating her so she has a lot of ground to make up. She was also hoping to go to college instead of debuting. But when her family makes it clear she is to salvage their honor, and she finds out her best friend will also debut this season, she takes the task. There is so much for her to learn and so much fashion she has to take on, including the very restrictive tight-laced corset. She is forced to wear the corset even while sleeping and so she is unable to ever be comfortable or properly digest her food.

Clara's father is a doctor and well known in the city, and able to secure many invitations for her. Her mother passed away when she was quite young.

Mitchell expertly weaves the details of this process into Clara's narrative. I found myself absolutely fascinated by the entire process and also, of course, very fond of Clara who never really bought into the appearances of it all, and was often confused about just why they were doing what they did. There is a love story and while it's not dominant it's full of just the right amount of delicious romantic tension, another thing I think Mitchell is very good at.

I also loved the the sub-story of Clara learning about Jacob Riis' book, How the Other Half Lives. It was her first exposure to the world of poverty and the various reactions of the rich when she brought up made me sad and also felt all to familiar. I was also really interested in the way church was an event to simply show off what one was wearing. The denomination I grew up in was founded in New York because a church wouldn't let the poor into services around this same time period. This is a perfect example of a story driving home and making real what that looked like for me.

The symbol of the tight-laced corset as the restriction on women in society was also well done, though horrifying. I've always been glad I'm not expected to wear a corset, but this book really really drove home the horror of it for me. It also makes me wonder what sort of things we do now that will be seen as horrifying to future generations!

She Walks in Beauty concludes this sort of series of Siri Mitchell. Each book is a standalone book in different time periods, but features some element of fashion heavily into the story. I highly recommend them all: A Constant Heart, Love's Pursuit

Also, there is a little bit of talk about whether or not God cares what happens to someone, but otherwise this book doesn't have much to make it overtly Christian fiction. I really really hope some of you that might stay away from Christian fiction will check it out.

Rating: 4.75/5
Source of Book: Review copy
Publisher: Bethany House, a division of Baker

Review: Sons of Thunder by Susan May Warren

Markos and Dino are brothers growing up on the island of Zante in Greece. They are young and headstrong. Markos has a temper problem that puts his family in a serious problem and soon he and Dino are forced to flee to America with Markos' girlfriend Sofia.

But things aren't any easier there, and problems and tragedy continue to haunt the brothers as they seek a life of peace and love.

I was really excited about this book because I love Susan May Warren's books, and I love a good epic love triangle story. And while I enjoyed Sons of Thunder, I have to admit it ended up being a little bit of a disappointment to me, mainly in the resolution of the triangle. This book definitely spans years and tries to accomplish a lot. The story takes place all over the place and into many different experiences. Admittedly, there was one section in the middle where I thought it was the hugest soap opera I'd ever read! Not that I'm against soap operas, I enjoy them, but the pace went almost too quickly jumping from one emotional reality to another. Also, whenever a word is overused I tend to pick up on it and it starts to really stand out to me. In this case, variations of the word fist were in heavy abundance.

I don't want to be a complete downer though, it was still a very enjoyable read. I love the way Susan May Warren creates love stories. She manages to write very intense believable love scenes without any, well, love making. :) I also loved a lot of the atmosphere of the book, and really believed it.

This is a Christian fiction book and so there are a few sections where the characters talk about their faith in God. These scenes do at times feel message-y or forced, but they are quite minimal in the story.

Overall, I enjoyed this book and look forward to the next in the series!

Rating: 4.25/5
Things You Might Want to Know: Christian fiction
Source of Book: Provided by publicist for review
Publisher: Summerside Press

Litfuse Publicity and Susan May Warren are also running a contest to promote the book:
Be sure to check out Susan's fun contest for the book's release: Each one of us has a wealth of stories from the past – while they might not all be as sweeping and dramatic as that of Sons of Thunder’s Sofia and the Stravos brothers (swoon), your family history is a treasure nonetheless.

Well – let’s hear them! Were your great-grandparents ‘fresh off the boat’? Was your great uncle a war hero? Did your grandmother make unbelievable sacrifices to help or protect the family? Did your father harbor a family secret until his death? Are you related to someone famous? Do you have a family treasure? Whatever it is that is unique in your family history – share your story HERE! (click on the here button) One grand prize winner will receive:

• Memory Prize package containing a gift certificate to create your own hard cover photo book
• 6 month membership to Netflix (to satisfy that flick fix!)
• Signed copy of Sons of Thunder!

5 runners up will also win signed copies of Sons of Thunder!

You can also be entered to win a copy of Sons of Thunder by helping us Spread the Word during the blog tour!

TWEET THIS:(must use hashtag #SonsofThunder to be entered - no limit on entries! Tweet away!)
Please RT! @susanmaywarren launches new Romantic Suspense #SonsofThunder. Share your story 2 win a fab prize pack! http://ow.ly/1digM

Review: The Wives of Henry Oades by Johanna Moran

Every once in awhile I'll read a story where a man goes off to war, leaves his wife behind and goes missing in action for a long enough time she thinks he's dead and she starts to go on with her life. Meanwhile, he's actually alive and dreaming of his reunion with her to keep him alive. He comes back and she's gotten remarried or something horrible. These are the worst kinds of stories, they are just so heart shattering.

The Wives of Henry Oades is a little bit like this but the reverse. Henry and Margaret leave England for a great posting and job opportunity for Henry in New Zealand. They already have children, and while there Margaret also has twin girls. But one day, Maori invade their home and kidnap Margaret and her children and take them for slaves. Henry grieves, believes them to be dead, moves to California, and eventually remarries.

Margaret and her children manage to escape, however, and eventually show up in California. What will happen? She is after still legally Henry's wife and has his children. But Henry is in love with his new wife and grieved the loss of Margaret long ago.

This book is very easy to read and really keeps you with it. I think that Moran does an excellent job of creating sympathetic characters. It's hard not to like and admire all of the characters and feel for them in each of their unique situations. I almost think she goes out of her way to make Henry's grief over Margaret and his children huge and almost insurmountable. But having said that..

I just couldn't help but feel really sorry for Margaret! Everything about her life ended up being about Henry, she wouldn't have been in New Zealand if not for him and once in California she felt she had to stay for her children's sake. It just seemed so unfair! And so despite the fact that the characters were sketched sympathetically, I don't think the book delves very deep into what they are feeling...I never felt like I understood very deeply the struggle of finding the man you'd been living for happily living without you, and not to be too frank, but being able to hear everything and know what's going on. And from the Nancy, the second wives' point of view, I think I would have felt much more insecure. So while I appreciated the story and the unusual arrangement the Oades had, it was hard for me to really believe it would all work out so smoothly. The most opposition they faced was from outside of them,, the town that wanted to say they were polygamists. Furthermore, I imagine after living with the Maori and being in slavery for so long, that Margaret and the children would have been suffering from more post-traumatic stress, but it seems they just fit into the life quite well.

I think Moran wanted to focus more on the power of female relationships. In fact, I think her central point is summed up well by this quote early in the book,

"Margaret tried, but she couldn't make him understand an affection forged in a single morning. The small transactions between women, particularly mothers, cannot adequately be explained to a man. Some, like hers with Mrs. Randolph, will bind women for life."

I suppose this book is a good example of the love of mothers and the ability of women to act selflessly in the best interest of their children. I don't know if I would have been able to do the same.

Rating: 4/5
Things You Might Want to Know: Brief strong language
Source of Book: Received from publisher for TLC Blog Tour
Publisher: Ballantine Books (Random House)

Review: Beneath the Lion's Gaze by Maaza Mengiste

If there’s anything a life of reading has taught me, it’s that there’s a lot I don’t know.

One of those things I know nothing about is Ethiopian history. Every month I check the events schedule at my closest independent bookstore and see if there are any readings coming up I might be interested in. I noticed that Maaza Mengiste would be there signing her book, Beneath the Lion’s Gaze. I’d never heard of it so I looked it up and was immediately interested.

Beneath the Lion’s Gaze takes place in Ethiopia during the 1970's when a military group overthrew the government and Emperor Haile Selassie. This was quite the upset, but problems such as severe famine had led the growing unrest and dissatisfaction with the government. One revolutionary group longed for a socialist order, while the military group took power and accepted funds from the Soviets and North Koreans.

It was a time of violent upheaval and intense cruelty. This is the time period Beneath the Lion’s Gaze takes place during. Beneath the Lion’s Gaze follows the family of Hailu, a doctor, and his friends and neighbors. The book opens at the beginning of the revolution when the government officials are being targeted by the military and the revolutionaries. Meanwhile there is a great deal of turmoil in Hailu’s family. His granddaughter is injured, his daughter-in-law is sick with worry and guilt over it, and his wife is dying. His youngest son, Dawit, wants to join those who are fighting for a new Ethiopia and Dawit’s best friend is quickly climbing the military ranks.

This book is tense. From the first page up through the conclusion, the reader feels the tension of this incredible time period and these incredible people. The conflict between them is so perfectly spun, so deeply human, and heartbreaking. I have to admit to wanting to shake the characters several times, or sit them down and help them communicate, but I know that the truth is that it’s just a lot more complicated than that. It isn’t as simple as just communicating when you don’t know who you can trust, when so many different motivations and experiences alter your perspective. And choices are so hard to make…the human choice vs. the choice the government might wish you to make. Every choice leads to another choice and builds a path that often leads to a devastating conclusion.

And heartbreaking. Some of what happens is just absolutely heartbreaking. What I think is so important about this kind of fiction is that humanizes these terrible time periods. When you can imagine the families and the faces and the hearts caught up in these events, by no fault of their own, it helps us to understand why we must fight for social justice and how this could easily happen to any of us. Peace is such a fragile thing.

And atmospheric. The details are expertly woven into the story making me feel like I was in Ethiopia without being cumbersome. The writing is lovely and at times beautiful even despite the fact that it is also very violent. The imagery of the lion is prevalent throughout the story, a constant testament to the fierce spirit of the Ethiopian people.

I also found some of the themes to be fascinating. Hailu is faced twice with the choice to administer mercy killings and makes two different choices. The reasons why and the circumstances might seem opposite of what you would originally suspect and led me to question the nature of love and objectivity in ethical medical decisions.

I have to admit that a great deal of what drew me to this book, besides my own ignorance is the way the author talked about it. She is Ethiopian and she said she has always been drawn to this time period, it’s why so many Ethiopians are in America, including herself. I was touched by this for some reason, this very personal quest for understanding that drove her to write this very human story during a very troubled time. It took her five years to write this book and many trips to Ethiopia. I have myself become extremely interested in this time period and in Ethiopian history in general, and since Mengiste provided a great bibliography in the back of the book, I’ll be looking into reading more about it sometime in the future.

Rating: 4.5/5
Things You Might Want to Know: There's a lot of violence
Source of Book: Bought it
Publisher: W.W. Norton & Company

(On a side note, I introduced myself to the author, gave her my business card, and offered an interview. I'm not sure she was familiar with the concept of a book blog at all, though, sadly.)

Review: The Bride's Farewell by Meg Rosoff

Pell is set to be married and she couldn't want anything less. So with a vague plan in mind, she takes off with her favorite horse, and her little brother, who doesn't speak and who won't be left behind.

Her plan is to go to the horse fair, where she hopes to get a job. She has a gift with horses and a sharp eye for spotting healthy horses and their disposition. But life on the road isn't as easy as she first imagined and she faces several setbacks in her quest for self-sufficiency.

This book is kind of hard to review. First of all, it's very slim, at only 214 pages. Secondly, it has that sort of not real feel to it....like The Good Thief. It takes place in the past, but the time seems of little consequence to the actual story. The writing is lovely and perceptive and probably what kept me reading, because while I wished for Pell to succeed, there wasn't a whole lot for me to hang onto in this story. There was a great deal of sorrow, suffering, and disappointment and while there were a few small surprises, the overall plot was, I don't know, just not that exciting. I think if I had been able to read it uninterrupted, I may have enjoyed it more, but I had to read it in little bits and snatches and I wasn't ever really thinking about it when I wasn't reading it.

But it wasn't a bad read, like I said, the writing was really nice. I also think the cover is pretty fantastic. (which has nothing to do with anything really, except that I like the cover) I've heard really good things about this author's other books and I think I'll check them out.

Rating: 3.75/5
Source of Book: Review copy received from Viking Penguin