Deadly Obsession Book Review

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Age Appropriate For: 15 and up

Best for Ages: 15-20

Description: As a teenage FBI agent Kennedy Stevens has put her life on the line numerous times in order to catch criminals. She believes it's her purpose in life, but every time she helps to put one predator away it seems that ten more are waiting to take their place. Kennedy has pretty much seen it all in her life on the job but past events in her personal life have caused her to turn her back on God and the faith she grew up with. Kennedy is used to people trying to kill her, it's all part of the job, however when someone begins stalking her, things get personal. Will Kennedy allow the world to make her bitter? Or will she give it all to God? Will a killer's Deadly Obsession with Kennedy prove fatal? Find out in this breath taking new inspirational suspense novella from author Caitlyn Santi and prepare yourself for a thrilling ride that will bring you to the edge of your seat.

I think one of that hardest thing for me, as both a lover of books and an author, is to rate first novels. This book is no exception. Santi has so much talent and the book, but it lacked some of the polish of an experienced writer. However, she isn’t an experienced writer, so it isn’t really that surprising.

First off, this book deals with older men preying on young girls. This is done in a non-graphic way. However, I wouldn’t hand this to young or sensitive readers. However, older teens will find this an appropriate read.

This story has a very classic, yet fun set up. A young person doing a job that normally only adults do. While it isn’t a huge secret, her classmates don’t know. She is leading a double-life so that she can help others. It may be classic, but it works and is fun. I liked that it felt less like Kennedy was lying to her school friends about what she was doing and more like her work and her school life were separate things. I get tired of most books/movies that are full of deceit to keep this kind of storyline going.

The faith message was good for the age group that this is targeted for. For older readers, it will probably feel too simplistic. Dealing with why bad things happen to good people, and anger toward God are some of the things dealt with.

Did I mention that there is an awesome sibling relationship? Well, there is. Kennedy works with her brother. Her brother is protective, loving, and tries to help Kennedy deal with the pain in her past. They also have loving, and supportive parents.

There is a lot of tense scenes in this, a lot of action, and you probably won’t want to put the book down. The villain is pretty evil and scary. As I said before, this isn’t a book for young or sensitive readers.

As I listened to the audiobook, I also have to say that the narrator, Peggy Sowersby, did a wonderful job. While not a youthful voice, she gave the story a very youthful feel.

I recommend this book to teens who like action, suspense, with a dash of faith.

I received this audiobook from the author for the purpose of writing a review. I was not required to write a positive review. All the thoughts expressed are my own.

Presumption and Partiality Book Review

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Age Appropriate For: All Ages
Best for Ages: 12 and up.

With this book, this series is drawn to a close. That would be sad, but it is hard to be sad when the final book is so amazing. I think that those who might worry that the final book might not live up to their expectations can stop worrying, because this was amazing.

Jones did an amazing job weaving Jane Austen's original stories into farm life in Arizona. I think out of the whole series, this had to be the most creative setting. The farm life fit the story so well and gave it so much depth.

I was blown away with some of the faith and moral elements that were seamlessly woven into the story without ever feeling preachy. I especially loved how Alice (Jane) had feelings for Richard (Mr. Bingley), but still worked to guard her heart. So many books make either it all about feelings or make it sound like you shouldn't have feelings at all. I appreciated that Alice had feelings, but didn't let them get out of hand.

Eloise was a wonderful leading lady with just the right balance of faith, spunk, and lady-likeness. I loved her and felt a kinship with her, as I suspect many girls will. She makes some rash judgments but learns from her mistakes. Above all, she goes to God for help.

Sidney Dennison (Darcy) was also very well done. At first, I wasn't sure about how him as an Indian was going to work, but in the end, I couldn't have thought of anything better. I like the depth of character and his faith.

Two major changes were made from the original story. The first was the interaction of the parents. While Mrs. Bailey is given to headaches, complaining, and matchmaking, her husband is loving and her daughters respectful. This was a beautiful change that was inspiring. The second was how the story ended. While the story’s actual ending didn’t change all that dramatically it was just...so much more satisfying. I can’t say any more because I don't want to give it away.

Overall, this was a beautiful retelling and a fitting end to the series. I highly recommend it to those who have loved the other books in the series, enjoy Jane Austen retellings, or those who love books with strong faith messages.

Solve by Christmas Book Review

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Age Appropriate For: 13 - 30
Best for Ages: 13 and up (topic of suicide, very mild romance)
Description: When sabotage threatens the Rudin Sugar Factory, Detective Jasper Hollock believes this will be his first real case. But dear Mr. Rudin—the only father Jasper has ever known—holds a different assignment for his private investigator. 

“I’ve struck a deal with God, Jasper, and you’re my angel.”

Mr. Rudin charges Jasper to build a “case” of reasons for his employer to continue his life. If he fails, Mr. Rudin will end it in suicide on Christmas night.

As the incidents at the factory become life threatening, Jasper’s attempts at dissuading Mr. Rudin prove futile. Time is ticking. Jasper must solve both cases by Christmas before Mr. Rudin and the company are dragged to perdition.

This was the best Christmas book I read this year. I bought this one and read it toward the beginning of the Christmas season. It isn't a light read. A man is threatening to end his own life. However, I'm really glad I read this story.

This story had the feel of a Sherlock Holmes mystery, but with a distinct Christian feel to it. Detective Jasper Hollock is a lovable character with real faults, a good brain, and fun quirks. He is someone you can feel sorry for, cheer for, and wish you could be his friend. I really hope that this is not the last book with Jasper in it. I would love it if this became a series.

The side characters were amazing. Denny was lovable and a great balance for Jasper. He added a lot of comic relief. Miss Leslie was one of my favorite characters. There are some hints of romance, but there isn't any touching or even much noticing.

There are two mysteries going on at once in this book. The first being a candy factory being sabotaged. The second is Mr. Rudin has asked Jasper to make a case for him to stay alive, as he is thinking of ending his life. The first mystery kept this book from being completely down. The mysteries were both built well, and the resolution was satisfying.

Schamel tackled a big topic - the meaning of life and the reason to keep living. She lived up to the challenge and gave a meaningful answer that wasn't easy, cheesy, or trite. That alone is worth a lot.

I highly recommend this book for those who love Christmas stories, books with depth, and tales that entertain and inspire.

Perception Book Review

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Age Appropriate For: All Ages
Best for Ages: 12 and up

To me, Persuasion has always felt like Jane Austen's most realistic novel. It really deals with resentment, misunderstandings, and feeling like everyone one else has it better than you. This retelling did the story justice.

This book followed the original story very closely, yet with the feel of the 30s. Some of the changes went so well. The use of make-up that is just becoming popular, the types of music people are listening to, and mentions of prohibition all lent wonderful details to the tapestry of this story. We also get a very good look at a family that was losing their money because of the crash.

Abby was such a dear. I love her heart and how she does what is right even when it was hard. She also loved purely. It is hard to find characters these days that love without hope of it being returned, without demanding their way, without lust filling them. Abby is an inspiration.

Adding a prologue to the story really added a lot to the story. We get a glimpse into Freddy’s and Abby's parting that helped me understand both of them even more. Besides, it was a great way of showing how World War I affected some of the people in the 1930's.

Freddy was very lovable, and I loved how Emily gave him so much depth. I love his relationship with his sister, his understanding of the coming war, and his kindness. There were a few scenes from his perspective that made the book sparkle.

This book, like the original, didn't really have a faith element. However, it was clean and moral. It left me feeling happy inside.

I highly recommend this book to those who like Jane Austen retellings, stories with satisfying endings, and historical fiction.

The Treasure Hunt

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Description: They were silent a moment each thinking of the strange clue and even stranger signature. Anna was first to speak. "It seems like some sort of treasure hunt."
A boring summer vacation turns into an exciting adventure when Anna and her brother David discover a mysterious note. Soon they are hunting for clues, solving puzzles, and cracking codes--all on their own farm!

This story was so much fun! This is the kind of book that I wanted around when I was younger. It was a fun story about siblings on a treasure hunt that lasts a few days. What is not to love?

The style was charming. There was nothing deep in this book, although faith is mentioned. It’s one of those books that would make a delightful summer afternoon read for a kid. Although, they might start making treasure hunts themselves.

The characters were defined enough that I never mixed up siblings, which is impressive for a first book. Well done Kate Willis!

I highly recommend this for younger readers who like contemporary mysteries and stories about happy siblings.

Today you can also read Rekekah Morris' review of Wind Chimes by Victoria Minks

Woodcutter Quince

Description: In the depths of Black forest, strange creatures are rumored to exist. Casperl isn't sure he's seen any of them, but he does know that there is a princess trapped on top of an enchanted mountain. Only a true prince can free her. He's certainly not one.

It’s been a while since I’ve read any of the Bookania stories, but I’ve had this story my Kindle a while. I found that this story was easily enjoyed all on its own. While it wasn’t long, is still found myself adoring the characters.

Casperl is a sweet hero. I love how he is so kind to the princess who is trapped in the enchanted castle, and how he always hoped the next prince would rescue her. The princess is also a good character. I enjoyed her old-English way of talking, and her kindness to others.

While there were mentions of the princess being under a spell, there wasn’t a lot of magic. I really enjoyed it from beginning to end. The ending was perfect!

I recommend this for those who like fairy-tales, short stories, and sweet heroes.

Dylan's Story

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Description: Terrified of telling too much, ten-year-old Dylan Sedano wishes his little sister, Fern, would stop talking. But when army reserve officer Scott Wood and his wife, Autumn, tell Dylan that God is ready to help him. Dylan isn’t buying. If God did care for them, why hadn’t He been there months ago when the trouble started and his dad disappeared?

I have yet to pick up a book or short-story by Rebekah Morris that I didn’t just love. Her stories are wholesome, devoid of anything objectionable, and always have a realistic faith element that blesses me.

This story featured some of my favorite characters yet! Scott and Autumn were a sweet, godly couple. I loved how loving they were toward each other both physically, emotionally, and with their deeds. I really loved how they interacted with each other. It was written in such a pure way, yet still very romantic that is hard to find these days in books. However, I did want to spank his sister, Fern, a couple of times.

Dylan tugged at my heart. He was so old for his years, such a sweet boy, yet so broken. His struggle to forgive and accept God’s forgiveness was presented in a very realistic manner. I loved how his story came out little by little throughout the book. I was pulled along with his emotions, feeling his joy, anger, frustration, and fear.

The plot to this story was fascinating. As Dylan’s backstory is told in bits and pieces, it becomes more and more interesting. There is a bit of mystery to this story, but not very intense. Even the youngest readers will enjoy this book

I highly recommend this book for those who like wholesome stories, faith-building messages, and lovable characters.

I was given a copy of this book for the purpose of writing a review. I was not required to write a positive review.

Befriending the Beast

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Description: Belle has returned unannounced to the castle to restore her relationship with the king, her father. Her hopes are dashed with the devastating message: "The king refuses to see you." Convinced that God has led her home, she is unwilling to return to Lord and Lady Kiralyn. Time is running out for the decision that will change her life. When tragedy strikes, will she and her father be pulled further apart or knit together? Could she stay at the castle even if she will never see her father again?

I’ve wanted to read this retelling for a while. Tero came up with a brilliant idea when she decided to retell Beauty and the Beast, casting Belle’s father as the beast. I’m happy to say that this story met my expectations.

You can always count on Tero to have strong faith element. I loved how Belle did what she knew was right even if it wasn’t easy. I like how she did what was right even when people older than her, who also loved the Lord, tried to convince her to do something else. It is an excellent lesson for younger readers.

The setting was fun and fairy-tale like, minus the magic that normally makes its way into these kinds of stories. Kingdom fiction seems to be the best classification for this tale. The castle and gardens that were described were beautiful and a worthy setting for the story.

There are several notable characters in this story, but some of them come across as flat, and motivations are at times fuzzy. However, I would say that is more than made up for by the stellar plot and well-written story.

I highly recommend this story for anyone who loves fairy-tales, faith-building stories, and happy endings.

Friends and Enemies

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Description: Friends and Enemies is a collection of short stories written by Jessica Greyson. 
Each short story has a moral lesson at its core.

If Jessica Greyson has written it, I pretty much know that I’ll love it. This short story collection was no exception. These tales were beautiful, emotional, and so very good. My only complaint? I wanted each story to be expanded and made into a book of its own.

A Time of Peace 
In a Scottish setting, I so wanted this one to be expanded upon. It was one of my favorites.

Comfort of Strangers 
If I had to pick a weak story, this would be it. It was the only one that left me a bit confused, but I still liked it.

Vengeance 
If you could make the worst wrong in your life right, would you? This story explores that. It left me feeling so happy.

Meagan
This one…the ending was nothing like I expected but left me wanting to hug Meagan. God doesn’t always give us the answers we want, but He always gives answers.

The Mask of Marguerite 
It was pretty awesome writing to communicate so much in such a short amount of time. Who doesn’t love an Esther story?

I won a paperback copy of this book during a giveaway. I was not asked to write a review and not obligated to write a positive review. 

Beyond the Mountain

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Description: Branwen thought her previous adventure to the North Mountain had been her last—after all, Captain Gavel's fortress had collapsed after she and the three others rescued the necessary crowns. She thought that she'd get to see Edyth, Quintin and Silas at the annual Tournament of Warriors for only a few days each year. But most of all, the last thing she expected was to ever go beyond the North Mountain... and that's exactly what she did. When the young princess went missing during the last night of the Tournament, the king and queen turned to the four faithful heroes to rescue the kidnapped child. And that’s how Branwen found herself caught up in yet another once-in-a-lifetime journey, headed north—this time, beyond the mountain.

I enjoyed the first book in this series. I picked up a copy on sale after I finished Branwen’s Quest and I am glad I did.It was a light fantasy with even fewer strange creatures and such than in the last story.

The four heroes from the last book are together again, and once again they win the Tournament of Warriors. Quickly they get caught up in a quest to save a kidnapped child. Their interactions were so much fun. It was like visiting old friends. Buxton is talented at weaving memorable characters, each unique.

Some of the settings in this story are familiar while others (like an island castle) are new and interesting. Visualizing everything from the descriptions given was easy. It was perfect for firing the imagination. I could easily see this being read aloud to children.

There wasn’t any faith element, but there were good morals. There were some injuries, blood, and pain, but it wasn’t described in great detail. There were mentions of Branwen’s unhappiness about the man her father wants her to marry and a couple other mentions of romantic interests of other characters, but they were brief, and I don’t think it will bother any readers.

I recommend this story for youth and young adults who enjoy light fantasy and adventure stories.

October

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Description: For Emily Baxter, life is simple. Her world is made up completely of school, church, and the community in the small farming town she calls home. All that changes one fateful Sunday, when a new girl shows up at Pleasanton Baptist—a girl unlike anyone Emily has ever seen. A girl with long red hair, crystal green eyes, and style and posture like royalty.
A girl named October.
The months that follow are filled with magic—the magic of ordinary things, of finding pictures in the stars, of imagination and a new sense of beauty. But as time goes by, Emily begins to sense that her enchanting new friend may have secrets that could break the spell. Is October really all she seems to be?

I wasn’t going to read this novel. Oh, don’t get me wrong. Grace Pennington is one of my favorite authors. I'm always blown away by her skill and powerful storytelling. However, I knew this book was going to be sad and hard to read. I decided to pick it up, and my heart is indeed in a thousand little pieces, like the feeling you get at the end of Camelot: You wanted a different ending so much, and yet, your heart is aching with the beauty of the conclusion that is there.

Emily is a wonderful character. I loved her. She is sweet, hopeful, and a faithful friend. She reminds me a lot of my youngest sister. I love how excited Emily gets over a new girl, a girl who is so obviously different.

Jax was a major player in this book as well. He was sweet and the kind of cousin I think every girl wishes she had. He has his faults, but he has a great heart.

The parents, pastor, and Melissa all played supporting roles. Each of them had some flaws, but all of them also had some wonderful qualities. I loved how real they all felt.

From the beginning of the book, you are waiting for the shoe to drop. You know that there is more to October (or Tobi) then Emily is seeing. Even early on, there are glimpses that just don’t fit. As the book wears on, the tension mounts. I think for anyone who has been around people like October will see it coming.

I think the hardest thing about this book is to realize how necessary it is. So many young people are dealing with friends who have major challenges like October. A book like this can help younger readers cope with what they are going through. The issues discussed in this book are not easy (See spoiler at the end of my review), but they are real, and they do exist.

The writing was some of Pennington’s best yet. You can tell this story poured out of her very soul, not just her heart. Because of that, it will impact lives.

The ending left my heart broken, yet there was hope among the sharp shards of pain. This is not a happy, feel-good book. This is not a fluffy romance. This is a raw, emotional, and realistic look at some hard things.

I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy realistic stories, lyrical writing, and emotional tales.

Write Well

Description: Writing isn't all heart and art. It's structure and syntax, too.
Write Well will help you understand the structure of writing so you can get back to the art.
Hi there, I'm Rachelle Rea Cobb. and I have history with words. I've ever been known as a grammar geek with a knack for storytelling. Friends and family have come to me for years to polish their pages. For five years now, one of my favorite things to do is help others polish their pages until their words shine--and then they can sign their own publishing contracts. I have worked with traditional, self-published, and best-selling authors, as well as students, bloggers, and ESL writers. Entrusting your words to others can be excruciating, but I promise to treat them with the utmost care, never squashing your voice. Instead, my job is to unleash it from typos, fluff, and repetitiveness, etc.
And now I'd like to share my expertise with you.

As some of you are probably painfully aware, grammar is not my thing. It isn’t that I don’t care, but it seems that every time someone tries to explain the rules, I only become more confused. Seriously? How am I supposed to understand where those silly little commas go? The answer is to buy this little book.

This book was so, so, so helpful! I still have a long way to go before I really have a firm grasp of all the principles. However, I finally feel like I have a chance. This book is not huge and intimidating. It is not peppered with crude references that some grammar books have. It is a short guide to grammar from someone who loves it to those of us who need the help.

After reading the section on commas, I felt like I had a better understanding of how to use them than any of the grammar books I read for school. Like I said, I know I still have a long way to go in applying them. However, I plan to start having this book on hand as I edit.

The rest of the book was also helpful. No section is very large; in fact, you can read the whole book in about an hour. Yet, those short pages are packed with helpful information.

If you want to learn more about grammar and improve your writing, this book is a must-have. It isn’t expensive, so grab yourself a copy.

I highly recommend this book for writers, homeschool students, and anyone wanting to improve their grammar skills.

The Graham Quartet and the Mysterious Strangers

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Description: In the midst of the cold, snowy woods, the Graham Quartet stumble across a mystery. It could mean danger, but that doesn’t stop Elsa, Matt, Tim and Selena as they try their best to help a stranger who needs them. But what can Siam, Hong Kong and Vanderbilt have to do with the local furniture factory? And why are so many strangers suddenly appearing and then disappearing in town? With the arrival of an elusive figure, things start moving, while a simple delivery trip may bring more than the Quartet bargained for. Will the four siblings be able to help their friend and their country?

While I bought and read a Rebekah Morris book a while back, my sister Mikayla can’t stop talking about her. She keeps asking me when Morris is coming out with another book and wants all of them. I finally sat down and read some more of Morris’ works, and I can see why my sister is so crazy about it. Here are some of the reasons her books are so good.

• They are not heavy on the romance. So many books these days are so heavy on the romance there is not much else to the plot. While I like romance as much as the next girl, it is nice to see books about other topics.
• They are clean in every way. You never have to worry when you open up one of her books about what you might find.
• They feel like old-fashioned books, giving you a nostalgic feeling.

The Graham Quartet and the Mysterious Strangers remind me of many of the childhood mystery books I read growing up. Yet this story has an element of faith, and parents the kids trust.

Homeschool families will especially appreciate the aspect of respect and interaction with the parents.
My one complaint about this book is that at times it felt historical (the 1950's) and at other times I wondered if maybe it were supposed to be a modern story. It might not be that important to most readers, but it was a bit distracting to me.

I loved how each of the kids had their own personality that was so well conveyed. Like in many families, they have an identity as a unit, but each is unique. Morris did a great job developing each of the kids’ personalities and sticking with it.

The mystery itself was kid friendly and interesting at the same time. Things were never boring in the story but also didn’t feel hyped and fake. There was very little violence in it as well. What little there was, the kids were shielded from, so you only get a vague impression of it. There is no murder, gore, or grossness.

I highly recommend this story for those who love clean mysteries, youth fiction, and nostalgic reads.

The Ankulen

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Description: Fifteen-year-old Jen can't remember her imagination. She knows she had one once, though, and honestly, she'd like it back. It's been eight years. One day she finds a young boy who claims to be one of her imaginary friends and that her imaginary world is being eaten by a hydra-like monster called the Polystoikhedron. He helps her find the Ankulen, a special bracelet that had given the ability to bring her imagination to life and together they embark on a quest to find friendship, healing, and perhaps even some family.

I wasn’t feeling good one day and looked on my Kindle. I can always count on Ardnek to give me something easy to read and full of imagination. However, this is my favorite book of hers yet. Very light, very fun, and very different.

The whole setting of this book is just plain cool: a girl inside her imagination, which has lots of different aspects to it. It reminded me a lot of my childhood imagination, except I was never as organized as Jen. The world, so carefully crafted, was just plain fun.

Jen was such a believable character, and her struggle to reclaim her imagination felt real. I liked how different she was from some of the other Ardnek leading ladies. She wasn’t as annoying as I found the main girl in the Quest books.

All the other characters just sparkled and were full of color (wink). The old woman was one of my favorites, even though she wasn’t really in the story much.

Other than nearly being lulled to sleep while the story was in the dream castle, the story kept me turning pages. It was so much fun. However, I was taken completely surprised by the powerful message toward the end. I was blinking rapidly at the skill, because the message had been there all the time, yet it surprised me. It was very well done.

I highly recommend this to those who like mild fantasies, imaginary worlds, and just want a lighthearted read.

Suit and Suitability

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Description: The mystery surrounding their father’s criminal accusations is almost as hard to solve as the many puzzles springing on their hearts. 
Canton, Ohio, 1935. Ellen and Marion Dashiell’s world crumbles when their father is sent to prison. Forced to relocate to a small town, what is left of their family faces a new reality where survival overshadows dreams. Sensible Ellen, struggling to hold the family together, is parted from the man she’s just learning to love, while headstrong Marion fears she will never be the actress she aspires to be. When a dashing hero enters the scene, things only grow more complicated. But could a third man hold the key to the restoration and happiness of the Dashiell family?

I have a confession to make. I pushed my way through watching two different versions of Sense and Sensibility and did not enjoy either. Marianne drove me crazy with her over-dramatizing of everything and, while I loved Elinor, she couldn’t save the films for me. However, I knew I loved Bryant’s work, and so I wanted to give this book a try. I am so glad I did.

Bryant was able to make me feel as if I had been transported back to Canton in 1935, so vivid were the descriptions. The settings were wonderfully descriptive and captured the places and feelings of the time. I felt as if I was visiting the places as they were in 1935.

Ellen and Marion were perfect. They captured not only the original characters but also the spirit of the time. Ellen captured the seriousness of the times and the properness of times past. Marion captured the dreams for a better future and the effects of the 20’s. I loved the plot twist that their father was alive and accused of a crime. It added an interesting dynamic to the story and to the two sisters.

The faith element in this story was wonderful. It wasn’t forced, overdone, or neglected. Each character, like in life, has a different struggle. The story gives a gentle message of faith that is woven almost imperceptibly into the story at times, yet when it comes to an end, you can see how it has been there the whole time.

As with Bryant’s other books, you won’t find any objectionable content in this story. Even the romance is in keeping with Jane Austen’s gentle, non-physical standards. It is rare to find a book that deals with real issues so well yet so clean.

I highly recommend this to those who love historical fiction, Jane Austen, and clean fiction.

Sufficient Grace

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Description: Four years have passed since tragedy broke Grace’s family apart, tarnished the family name, and sent her into hiding at finishing school. Now with a new last name and a few years between her and the accident; Grace wonders if she will be able to escape the heavy shadow of the past that smothers her with guilt and a desire to escape life. 
Grace carefully guards her heart from others to prevent them from discovering her past. However, when Mitch, a deputy, comes into her life, he seems bent on destroying Grace’s armor. Can Grace really trust someone with the secrets that haunt her, or will they destroy her once again?

While I have loved both Annabeth’s War and The Captive of Raven Castle, I have to admit that this is by far my favorite Greyson book so far.

Moving away from the realm of fantasy, Greyson takes us to the old west. Her story drops us in the middle of the action of girls that have been kidnapped from a stagecoach, and the story just is amazing from there.

My heart immediately felt connected with Grace’s. So many of the emotions that she experienced are ones that I have felt myself. She was so wounded, yet also strong. She was someone you wanted to hug and respected at the same time. Throughout so much of the story, you wonder why Grace is choosing to do some of the things she is doing, yet also not confused, if that makes sense.

Mitch was an amazing character, too. He reminded me of Ransom in Annabeth’s war, yet he was different. Mitch’s unconditional love and how he truly cares for Grace was so sweet. So much of the story focuses on their friendship. Yes, there is a hint of romance, but more on friendship.

You can always count on Greyson for solid faith messages, and this was no exception. This book held the themes of telling the truth, redemption, and allowing others to be there for you. Yet, more than any other story she has written, I feel the message within this book will minister to the heart of those who read it.

I never wanted to put the book down. That is probably the reason I didn’t and read it all in one day. It kept me flipping pages wanting to find out what happened next. When it was finished, I wished that it wasn’t over.

I highly recommend this to those who love western stories, light romance, and a whole lot of action.

The Sound of Emeralds

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Description: What once was blazing hatred has turned to lasting love, but could the union of a wild heart with that of a lady ever result in more than heartache?
With the help of an old friend with uncertain loyalties, Dirk inches ever closer to clearing his name. Gwyneth throws her faith into good tidings and the promise of a future as a family. But an old evil comes to call, just as tragedy rips apart a fledgling truce. Enemies from the past and grief for the future threaten to tear asunder what God had brought together…
As the date of Dirk’s trial approaches, his fate and his family hang in the balance. Will he be proven innocent of Gwyneth’s parents’ murders—or separated from her forever? How much pain does it take to erode a love steadfast?

Wow! What a powerful conclusion to the series. I just sat staring off into space for a few minutes after finishing, soaking in what I had just read.

This story held a lot more kissing and such than the last two books, but that isn’t surprising or disturbing, as Gwyn and Dirk are now married. Their love was sweet and deep, which I loved. Besides, it isn’t every author that goes beyond the wedding day. I cheered when I found out that Rachelle took this story farther than most authors would have.

Dirk and Gwyn’s marriage is far from perfect. In fact, most of the story is spent with a wide gulf between them. I think that perhaps they struggled more in this book than they ever did in the first book. Dirk and Gwyn both make some big mistakes in how they cope with a tragedy, and I loved that. This book dealt with a lot of raw pain in a way that was realistic and God-honoring. So many authors miss this sweet spot, and Rachelle Rea Cobb nailed it!

The hardest thing about a series that I love is saying goodbye. While this book was an emotional roller-coaster, the ending was beautiful and satisfying. While I would love to read more about Dirk and Gwyn, the story must come to an end sometime.

This whole series was a delight. I highly recommend it to those who love historical fiction, romance, and dealing with emotional issues in a godly way.

The Sound of Silver

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Description: The stalwart saint and the redeemed rebel. One is fighting for faith, the other for honor…
After Dirk rescues Gwyneth from the Iconoclastic Fury, she discovers that faith is sometimes fragile—and hope is not as easy as it may seem. Gwyneth continues her quest to learn more about the love of God preached by Protestants she once distrusted.
Meanwhile, Dirk’s quest is to prevent his sullied name from staining hers. Will his choice to protect her prove the undoing of her first faltering steps toward a Father God? Once separated, will Dirk and Gwyneth’s searching hearts ever sing the same song?

I was so excited to finally read the second book in this series. I actually sat down one Sunday and read straight through them. It was a great way to see the story woven together, but it also makes the details of the books blend together. I am sorry for any blending in my brain that has taken place.

Dirk still seeks to clear his name, but he faces a lot of obstacles. I love how he is drawn to Gwyn, yet wants to save her from his reputation. So many heroes don’t hesitate to bring the girl they love into danger with them, so it was nice to see Dirk trying to protect Gwyn.

Speaking of protecting Gwyn, she didn’t make it easy. As in the last book, sometimes she did her own thing, which put her in danger. Sometimes I wanted to shake her for being stupid, but most of the time I just adored how much she cared about the people around her.

This story was so good that I couldn’t wait to start the next book… and so I didn’t. I dove right into it.

I highly recommend this book to those who love historical fiction, mild romance, and lots of exciting twists.

The Sound of Diamonds

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Description: In Reformation-era England, a converted rogue wants to restore his honor at whatever cost. Running from a tortured past, Dirk Godfrey knows he has only one chance at redemption.
An independent Catholic maiden seeking refuge in the Low Countries finds herself at the center of the Iconoclastic Fury. Jaded by tragedy, Gwyneth's only hope of getting home is to trust the man she hates, and she soon discovers her poor vision is not the only thing that has been blinding her.
But the home Gwyneth knew is not what she once thought. When a dark secret and a twisted plot for power collide in a castle masquerading as a haven, will the saint and the sinner hold to hope...or be overcome?

I don’t think I have ever been so embarrassed about a book review. Seriously, I was one of the first people to read this book. I read it before a publisher looked at it. I cheered this book on and pre-ordered a copy. I was part of the original blog tour and the Thunderclap campaign. Why has it taken me so long to write a review? Yes, this is embarrassing, especially since it was such a good book.

Rachelle Rea Cobb has had a voice like no other since I first met her all those years ago. It is engaging, poetic, and just plain special. She is one of those authors that you feel as if you could be handed a random paragraph they have written and know that it was them right away.

I loved Gwyn in so many ways. Her wearing glasses and needing them to see well was such a realistic touch to the story. So often, the girls in books are physically perfect, and Gwyn having this defect was so awesome. Her emotions felt so real, and her struggle with whom to believe made my heart ache.

Dirk was a bit annoying at first, but I loved him very quickly. His fierce protectiveness of Gwyn, even when she doesn’t see the need for it was so sweet. He was a good match for Gwyn. As the book progresses and you learn more and more about him, it makes you love him more.

The faith element was woven in expertly. It neither dominated the whole story nor took a back seat. Redemption in salvation and in life were themes that were a huge part of the story. Rachelle, you did a great job.

The hardest thing for me about the story was the fact it had changed. I read a very early version so when I read the published version, there were things missing and added. The ending felt quite different, but I expect that is because two books were added. Yet, I also had the privilege of seeing a great draft become an amazing published book. How awesome is that?

I highly recommend this book for those who love romance, adventure, and historical fiction.

Second Impressions

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Description: Jane Austen's stories have inspired writers for generations...in this collection they inspire fiction across the genres! From the English Regency to the American 1950s, in Houston or a space freighter, fairytale land or a retirement center...Austen's timeless characters come to life again.

This collection is one of the best I have ever read. Normally, you read a collection of short stories, and you end up loving one and either feeling apathetic or hating the rest. While I liked some more than others, all of these stories captured my interest.

Chocolate Surprise ~ This story got the whole thing off to an amazing start. The opening line sounds like the story is going to be off Pride and Prejudice, but you quickly realize it is more of an Emma retelling. I loved it so much!

Gently Pursued, Finally Persuaded ~ This was one of the sweetest of the whole collection. Persuasion in a nursing home? What is not to love?

The Secret of Pemberley Estate ~ This was a sequel story to Pride and Prejudice, and while interesting, is honestly one of the weaker stories. Full of imagination, adventure, and mystery, it was a bit large to be crammed into a short story. However, I still enjoyed it.

Emma’s Irritation ~ My sister wrote this, but even if she hadn’t, I think it would stand out to me. It is based on a conversation in the book Emma by Jane Austen. This was a delightful look at the youth of Emma and Mr. Knightly.

Mother’s Day ~ This was so sweet and amazingly well told for being so short.

The Mansfield ~ This is probably the most imaginative of the collection. Mansfield Park in space? It sounds farfetched, but it worked and worked well. I loved it!

Elaina  ~ This was a mild fantasy and a retelling of Emma. It was very entertaining.

Peace in the Orchard ~ This was also a mild fantasy and a retelling of Pride and Prejudice. Fantasy might not be my favorite, but this was so interesting I didn’t mind at all. I loved the misunderstandings that are so classic of P&P.

Maid of Houston ~ It was hard for me to figure out which Jane Austen story this was based on, but it was interesting. Bringing in the Hispanic and modern culture while incorporating some elements from different Jane Austen stories makes this story an interesting one.

This collection has some mild violence in some stories, and I was honestly surprised at how little physical touch there was in these stories. The others seemed to capture the true spirit of Jane Austen in that everything focused on the deep emotions of the characters.

I highly recommend this collection for those who like short stories, Jane Austen, and Jane Austen fan fiction.