Monday, December 14, 2015

Review of "Trial Run" by Thomas Locke

Thomas Locke's new series, "Fault Lines" begins with a roller coaster ride of events. Scientists, kids who live on the edge, mercenary government officials, brilliant students; all come together for the purpose of something incredible - exploring the ability to essentially travel without bodies; to "ascend".

There are several main characters the author is introducing us to, and the book bounces back and forth between them. Students Trent & Shane have challenging backgrounds that are not fully revealed, but their intelligence is clearly off the charts. Reese Clawson is technically running an experiment for the government but has her own reasons for participating. She will do whatever it takes to right an undisclosed wrong. Gabriella & Charlie have worked together for years, and are initially unable or unwilling to tell each other the truth about how they feel.

With all of the bouncing back and forth, it is initially challenging to know who the "good" and "bad" guys are. And will the results of these experiments be used for good or evil? In my opinion, this is not at all a stand alone novel. I was not satisfied in the ending in that I wanted more, I wanted to know what happens next. I will gladly recommend this book and am eager to read the next one in this series.

I was given a free book from Revell Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Thursday, December 3, 2015

Review of "Longing for Paris" by Sarah Mae

I first wanted to read this book because I, too, have ALWAYS wanted to go to Paris. However, when I realized the author was using Paris as a metaphor I became intrigued. This book focuses on how to navigate the tension of living a life that is filled with joy - whether you physically stay right where you are or make it to Paris tomorrow. The author shares parts of her personal story (she is very transparent), as well as the spiritual growth and discoveries she has made along the way.

Each chapter includes a section titled "Unearthing Your Longings" (thought provoking questions with supporting Scripture, so you can dig a little further.) There is also an "An Invitation to Paris!" section - specific activity instructions for a local or Parisian-like activity!

This is one of the best "Christian Life" books I've read in a while and it is very easy to recommend. You will both find it helpful and inspiring, as well as practical for your every day life.




I received a free copy of this book from Tyndale Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

Review of "Until the Dawn" by Elizabeth Camden

Sophie van Riijn is passionate about many things: her community, cooking, and the emerging weather sciences; but she is especially passionate about finding her purpose and meaning in life. She has even set up a volunteer weather station on the rooftop of Dierenpark, a magnificent estate owned by the Vandermark family on the Hudson river. However, the families' surprise arrival to take back the house they have left abandoned for decades soon turns out to be part of a plan to reduce it to rubble.

Quentin Vandermark is in constant pain due to a terrible leg injury, and it colors every moment of every day. He is determined not to be one of the "idle rich" and works as an architect, but as he has been incapacitated for some time, is just getting back to normal living. He is sent by his grandfather to Dierenpark specifically to create the best plan to level the house to the ground....all in an effort to eliminate the curse Nikolaas Vandermark believes is part of the property.

The author has layered numerous interesting characters into this story, which includes humor, romance - even a mystery! I have enjoyed every single one of Elizabeth Camden's books and this was one of my favorites.