After the death of half his family in a fatal car crash, Deputy Sergeant Matthew Prescott decides to take a detective position that comes available. A year later, he is comfortable in his new position and when wolves, activists and murder happen, it is his job to discover exactly what is going on.
This is a suspenseful book. It is a different topic than any others I've read by Clair Poulson, wolves and activists are not a subject that I have read anything about before, but I enjoyed it. I thought it was interesting and informative. The main focus was on the mystery that needed to be solved, but there was a bit of romance too. Clair Poulson can be counted on to write a good, intriguing book.
When Jayson's mother tells him that she is moving them to Oregon to keep them safe from his abusive father, he sees the wisdom in it. But when she tells Jayson that she will have to sell his piano, he is heartbroken. Music is more than something he feels passionately about, it's what his soul thrives on. However, in Oregon, new frienships are made and a new life is begun. Will his musical abilities be lost without the right instruments? Will he ever have the chance to play again?
I think this is my favorite Anita Stansfield book that I have ever read. It is the first volume of a new series and it is a romance, although a bit different than any of her other ones. Her characters are not LDS but they are fascinating, and feel real - like people I have know in my life - and they have good morals. I love the music approach, being a musician myself, and I could totally identify with Jayson's loss of his piano. I really can't wait to see what happens in the next volume!!
Luke Millward has his life exactly the way he wants it. He has a beautiful, successful girlfriend, his career is right on track, and he thinks he's happy. The only problem is his alcoholic father. But then a stranger calls and tells him his father is missing. He is wanted to come to New Orleans - just days after Hurricane Katrina - and find him.
This book was a little slow for me to begin with. It took a couple of tries to get into it. But after the second or third chapter, it really began to pick up and then I was fascinated. I, too, watched all the coverage about Hurricane Katrina when it happened. But it wasn't until I read this book that I realized how little I really knew about it, how bad it was, how little I did to help, and truly how people must have suffered. I thought this was a good book for education, not only on Hurricane Katrina but on relationships, forgiveness and realizing what is really important.
When King Lamoni offers Ammon, his daughter Isabel as a wife, Isabel is insulted. But when the Nephite refuses her - she is livid! She sets out to prove that Ammon is a spy, for that is the only reason he can have for refusing her as a bride. But things change as she watches and interacts with Ammon, until the day that she must make a choice that will affect the rest of her life.
This book is set in Book of Mormon times. It's exciting to read a book that features characters from stories that we know and love. I enjoyed this account of Ammon and King Lamoni. It's a bit of a romance, but it also has some suspense and retells, from a completely different angle, one of our favorite Book of Mormon stories. I think this is a great book for anyone, of any age and I'm sure some of the Young Women in my ward, especially, would love to read it.
"Eddie Fanta is a fifteen-year-old boy entangled in tragic secrets which leave him questioning life, questioning justice, and questioning God. Louis Kosserinski is a savagely scarred and crippled old man who has remained in utter seclusion for the last forty years.
Mysterious circumstances bring these two characters face to face where Eddie discovers the old man's unprecedented genius for electronics and microcircuitry — a genius which has spawned a series of inventions which could change the universe forever! Although Eddie sees Louis' inventions as an opportunity to improve an imperfect world, he ends up wreaking havoc at every hair-raising turn."
Chris Heimerdinger is the author of the "Tennis Shoes Among the Nephites" series. I thoroughly enjoy everything that he has written, and I think I've read most of it. However, 'Eddie Fantastic' is geared more toward technology and science fiction than any of his other books, in my opinion. I thought it was interesting, but it didn't appeal to the girl in me very much. There were many details that I didn't understand, and concepts that went a bit over my head. But I'm sure that my nephews, son and brothers would have loved this book. My recommendation is that it will appeal most to boys, thirteen years old and up.
Megan O'Connor will do about anything to make her twin sister, Kristen, happy. This time Kristen has asked Megan to pretend to be her, so that she can keep a job and still go on a vacation that she has wanted to go on. Kristen promises that they will both be rich when they are done. But Megan has second thoughts when she meets and becomes friends with some of the people that believe she is Kristen. As time goes on, she learns she has more to worry about then she thought.
'Fool Me Twice' is a suspenseful, mystery story that keeps you guessing until the end. I found it interesting the things that Megan would do to keep both Kristen and her mother happy. It made me wonder if I become someone I'm not in order to keep the peace? I really liked the ending. I found it to be realistic to the storyline and natural consequences to choices that were made in the book. I thought it was a very good book.
This is the third book in the series, "The Company of Good Women." It follows the lives of three close friends and their families, through the various challenges that come their way.
This series helps us see life through the eyes of three entirely different women. I believe that is the whole purpose of this book. By learning to empathize and try to understand other people's trials, we develop compassion and knowledge that helps us in our own lives. It helps us with insights into our own problems and gives us solutions and direction to overcome our own issues. If you enjoy books that have a purely human interest angle, you will like these.
Porter Huggins knows very well that he has made a lot of mistakes. But when the phone call came that his ex-wife died, he saw the chance to repair some damage. He didn't hesitate to head toward Panguitch, Utah to convince his sixteen year old son to come home with him. Taking him back to Arizona would be difficult, but not impossible. However, building a relationship with him may very well take a miracle.
This book took a while to really get in to. But once I did, I really liked it. It is simply about relationships and letting go of grudges. It made me wonder if every parent feels like they have made mistakes that are difficult to forgive. I also thought about how well a child feels like they know their parent. It was a simple plot but the characters had a lot of depth and I felt like they were all friends by the time I was finished. If you like books about relationships, I recommend it.
When Cath Reed is given her visiting teaching assignment in her new ward, no one expects very much from her. Her companion sleeps all the time and the sisters that they have been assigned to see have always had letter routes. But Cath determines to do her best. She finds that things never turn out how one predicts.
This is a great book about rising beyond expectations in spite of the obstacles. I really enjoyed this story. Sometimes as women, we truly don't understand each other or our motives. I appreciated the author's approach with this book. The main character, Cath, doesn't know what the outcome is going to be from her efforts to visit her sisters - instead of just sending the letter that she's been told to send. It also seems like everything else in her life is falling apart. But Cath tries to find joy in the small things. I think she is an excellent example of perspective. I thought the whole book was a great reminder of the true purpose of visiting teaching, and I hope there will be another story to follow.
'The Unvalentine' is a dark twist on Valentine's Day. It's about Lilly who doesn't believe in love and wish it didn't exist. She is the type of girl who would never wear pink and loves rainy days. All around her, a world that loves Valentine's Day is celebrating, and Lilly is stuck there. She absolutely dreads February. Good thing Ray hates it too! Ray is a boy who unvalentined Lilly. Now they both hate Valentine's Day but do they hate each other?
This book is very funny and I ejoyed it thoroughly. 'The Unvalentine' is made up of a lot of fun poems - it's like a picture book for adults. I think young adults will enjoy it the most. This book is wonderfully illustrated and can be read in about five minutes. Unvalentines are located in the back of the book so that you can give them to all your friends. It is a hilarious book and I would definitely recommend it to young single adults.
Andy McBride and Louisa Martin meet in Medical school and fall in love, but soon realize that they can never have a future because of their backgrounds. Louisa is from a polygamous family that expects her to return home after school and attend to her community's health needs. Brokenhearted, they both go their separate ways after school is over. But true love is not easily dismissed.
What a unique, interesting book! I think almost everyone is a bit fascinated by polygamy. The author has obviously done a lot of research into polygamy and what the goals of a polygamous family are or might be. There were a lot of characters in the book and I had trouble sometimes keeping track of them and who was who. My only real problem was with the sister of Louisa. The author brought her up, explained her and then neglected to do anything else with that information. That bothered me because there was no purpose in her being in the story if she was not going to be used for anything. I'm sure it was an oversight.
What I liked about the book was the topic, it is truly unique, (this is certainly not a predictable love story) and the examples in this book of taking risks and helping someone else, regardless of personal ramifications. I think that sometimes we know we should do something to help someone else - but we're too scared that there may be problems - so we let the opportunity pass by. This book was a great illustration of the difference it can make in someone's life when we take the opportunities to serve others as those opportunities come. You won't be able to put this book down!
When a boy's tummy rumbles, grumbles and mumbles, it makes him eat more than his fair share. In fact, he eats all of America! He starts out eating his vegetables and ends finishing Kansas. Stranded, in the middle of the ocean with his mom, he learns several lessons.
This book is very cute. The illustrations are adorable and bring the story to life. It has a wonderful message that is easy to understand. Young children thorougly enjoy this book. It is highly entertaining and I recommend it to children ages 2-5 years old.
For her school play, Tasia is picked to be the elf - again. She would have much rather been the ballerina like Katie or the teddy bear like Brianna. They get to wear frilly costumes. But all Tasia gets is a "too-large-for-her-head" green felt hat. Her mom helps her see the importance of the crumpled green hat and her role as an elf by telling her a story taking her to a world full of buttons, fabric and the true meaning of Christmas.
This book is a wonderful bedtime story and a delightful Christmas tale. The book is a little long, so kids younger than three years old might have a hard time paying attention to the whole story. I didn't find it much of a problem though, and I read it to several different age groups. "Always the Elf" is a richly detailed story that captivates audiences around 3-7 years of age, but I enjoyed it too! I highly recommend this book.
Liana Winn has never felt like she belonged. After her parents death when she was four, she came to live with her Aunt's family, but has always had difficulty fitting in. Her distant memories, and inability to allow herself to feel love for others, keeps her at arms length from those she wants to care about. When she meets Austin Walker, circumstances in her life begin to change and she comes to realize that she must make peace with her past.
This story by Rachel Ann Nunes is very different than any of her other books. The plot is more about the finding of oneself, than of romance. I realized when reading this book that there are a few truths presented. One is, the right relationship will provide what one needs when no one else can or has been able to. Sometimes it's one particular person that is needed in one's life. Number two is, when the student is ready, the teacher will appear. Liana needed to be at a specific point before she was ready to find the answers that she was seeking.
I really enjoyed this book. It gave me things to ponder about, and reason to be grateful for my blessings. I just wish there was more information given about places one could donate to. I had a strong urge to give to others less fortunate when I was done.
Rachel Fletcher's world turns upside down the night she comes home and learns her Dad was killed in an accident. Since he was on his way to pick her up, she is sure it's her fault. The problems only escalate when her brother starts openly drinking and her mother refuses to get out of bed. How long can Rachel hold the family together?
I have enjoyed all of Kay Lynn Mangum's books. They are realistic and interesting. This one is no exception. I find the characters compelling and easy to relate to. I spent the book cheering for Rachel and wishing I could help her with her problems. It is so easy to remember the issues that plague teenagers - the embarrassment over a perceived social faux pas or the mortification about saying the wrong thing around a cute guy. While the end was a bit predictable, I could not have predicted how it ended up there. I do hope there will be a follow up book with these characters because I would love to learn what their future holds.
Nate, Trevor, Pigeon and Summer are four friends that stop in the candy shop on their way home from school, owned by Mrs. White. Soon, this group of friends is doing odd jobs for Mrs. White in return for her magical candy. But, all is not quite what it seems, and the four of them are pulled deeper into a world of magic, mystery and suspense.
I am a huge, HUGE fan of the Fablehaven books and author Brandon Mull. I think his books are completely different and original in comparison to many things that I have read lately. This is another book about magic and kids - but from a different angle than I have ever read before. I think this is a great book for older kids, teens and family reading. It is compelling and I think that kids will identify with the love of candy and the need for adventure. It makes you think about several different things that we all think that we want, for example, what if parents had no idea what we were doing with our friends or in the house? What if they didn't care? Is that really what we want? It truly makes you think about courage, standing up for what's right and going with your instincts.
Being a mouse is hard. You have to constantly hide and worry. You are always having to be on the look out for humans, poison, and traps and you must be forever attentive to predators who would like to make a mid-day snack out of you. Magical mouse Amber, with Ben, her magic buddy (who used to be a boy), Bushmaster, a wise vole, and Thorn, a very smart mouse, set out to change all that. They decide to take over the world to make it a safe place for mice. Too bad Sebaceous Ooze has the same idea. He is an evil worm that uses magical song to enslave mousekind. He also wants to use his army of slobber goblins to take over and ruin the world.
I really enjoyed this book. I have not read the first in the Ravenspell series. With the "Wizard of Ooze", I didn't have to. It was good on it's own. This story is about magic, adventure, and friendship. The suspenseful sequences were wonderful. I highly recommend this book for all ages.
To Wesley, getting kicked out of school is the least of his worries. Soon, the reason why he's out of school is moving in next door, school bully Dylan Maclean. Wesly also finds out Harrison is more than just a geeky tutor. When things take a turn for the worse, events leave Wesly in the middle of nowhere, with a madwoman (who thinks she's his mother) and with wild animals right outside his door. Wesly has to rely on some unlikely people to escape.
I think Widow's Revenge is a great sequel. This book is the sequel to "Serpent Tide". On it's own, you do miss a lot of background information. The first time I read it - it was hard to understand, what the characters were talking about or who different people were. When I re-read it though, it was easier to understand and I liked it much better.
I have always loved adventure books and this one certainly didn't let me down. It was exciting and thrilling but allowed you time to think about the next part in the story. I was in suspense until the very end! I recommend this book to both boys and girls around 12-16 years old.
Lydia is shocked and upset when she learns her friend Emmeline has been reading a controversial book from a strange religion. Lydia knows that she could never take such a book seriously, but out of respect for her friend, she reads it. Lydia soon realizes that this strange book will change her life and that of her family - whether they like it or not.
This book is set in nineteenth century England, and is very informative about the cultural beliefs about religion that existed. The author takes the time to develop Lydia's character so that we understand that she is a headstrong woman, full of opinions and convictions, and that her husband respects that. It is an interesting book, and I have wondered what I would do if I were in their position of choosing family, friends, business, country or faith. The book did end a little abruptly - so I am hoping that there will be a second one to completely finish the story. I am curious what happens to Madge. However, even if there isn't another one, this book was an enjoyable read.
When Andrew McCammon, a windower, is called into the Stake President's office for an interview, he has no idea what to expect. But having a calling to be Bishop extended to him, plus being told that he needs to be engaged before he is sustained in two weeks, is certainly not it. Overwhelmed, Andrew doesn't know where to begin or how - until he hears the sacrament talk on family history that next Sunday.
This is a really fun book. It teaches why family history is important and how it can be an adventure. It talks about having a good attitude during trials. This book talks about people and first impressions and that things aren't always what they seem. It has romance and even a little mystery. I think it's a great choice for a light fun read this summer.
Andrea wakes up in a hospital in Los Angeles with no memories of who she is or how she came to be there. Esther and Jack, her parents, reintroduce her to a life where no previous memories exist. Her only happiness is her music, and with her music she becomes a success. However, she feels there must be more.
Matt has spent a year searching for the wife that abandoned him and his son. He knows he needs to forget her and go on, and seeing her in Las Vegas gives him the desire to move ahead with his life.
This book was a bit emotional. That is to say, I experienced all emotions while reading it. I really don't want to give anything away so I will try not to be too descriptive. I read this book very slowly and savored it. I wasn't sure through most of the book what I was hoping would happen. But I wanted love to triumph and I couldn't figure out if it would. My one minor complaint was the development of some of the characters. I had remaining unanswered questions about most of them - but especially Rick. What was the purpose of his personal vendetta against Andrea? It just didn't make sense to me. However, I loved the spiritual growth that Matt experienced, and I loved the unpredictability of the whole story. The author did a great job of pulling you in and making you think. I pondered on whether I would be the same person I am, without the memories that make up my life. I would like to hope so.
Because of a mix-up with their time travelers, Tom and Becky are left penniless with no place to go in Palmyra, 1830, instead of safe and sound with their parents in the 21st century. While their Uncle Daniel goes off preaching the gospel with the prophet Joseph Smith, Tom and Becky are left to figure out the solution on their own. With the help of some early church leaders, they have the adventure of a lifetime.
"Time Travelers in Church History: Rescue the Prophet" is a great book. The author, Rob Ficiur, did a wonderful job of describing the setting and the persecution of the saints in those early days. This novel teaches you morals and church facts while taking you on a thrilling adventure. "Rescue the Prophet" is the second in the "Time Travelers" series. Though written as a companion to the first, I think it's great on its own. I have not read the first book but I didn't miss any background as you do with so many other books. Read along with Tom and Becky as you watch this adventure unfold. I highly recommend this book to all ages.
Paul Bryant is devestated by the loss of his pregnant wife in a car accident. Her last request is that he find a mother for their newborn twins. As Paul has terminal cancer, he knows this is not a request to take lightly. Jane is hoping for a date when, out of loneliness, she answers a personal ad. She then enters into a very strange relationship.
This is a very unique book. It is a romance - but it is truly not your "boy meet girl, boy and girl fall in love, boy and girl get married, boy and girl start a family" book. I won't spoil the magic by explaining exactly what it is. I was captivated by this story. It is a book that is almost 400 pages long - but I read it in a night. It will make you think about your own priorities and what choices you would make in certain situations. It will also require you to think about the relationships in your lives and are they what you want? I think this book was entirely worth the cost and I'm sure you'll think so too.
In this latest 'Haggerty Mystery' novel by Betsy Brannon Green, four friends meet together for a fun weekend at a mountain cabin, hoping to rekindle relationships. But a storm, a mysterious stranger and a visitor from the past complicate matters.
Meanwhile, a younger woman appears in Haggerty, interested in Miss Eugenia's special friend, Whit Owens. Miss Eugenia is sure that there is something sinister about the new arrival.
The Haggerty novels are always interesting, suspenseful and exciting. This book is no exception. Miss Eugenia's unique personality, once again, comes vividly to life, as she and other familiar characters interact - intent on solving unanswered questions. This book is predictable in the fact that it is unpredictable and one won't be able to guess how it ends. You will truly enjoy this mystery novel. It will be like catching up with old friends.
In this second book of this magical series, Kendra and Seth are back at Fablehaven, facing new dangers. The Society of the Evening Star seeks to invade and steal ancient artifacts from magical preserves that are of great value. Kendra and Seth find themselves caught in the middle of the latest threat and they may be the only people who can save Fablehaven!!
What an exciting second installment! I really, really, REALLY love this series! It's exciting, it's magical, it teaches great morals, it's suspenseful, it has the classic good against evil themes, and it's wonderful for all ages. At the end, it becomes apparent that there will a Book Three - so I'm thrilled. I have to say, I have a whole library of novels that I happily loan out to anyone who wants to borrow them, but I will not loan out my Fablehaven books. I love them that much. If you enjoy magic and a good adventure, I highly recommend this series.
The year is 1971 and Bodi Brooks is fifteen years old. The biggest problem in her life is her mean math teacher. She has friends, a great family and she's an aspiring poet. Bodi thinks she has a great life. However, things never stay the same. This is a story about growing up, overcoming problems, accepting tragedy.
I thought this book was very well written. The words seem to flow off the pages and create imagery so powerful that I could truly see the characters. This was not written as an LDS book. In fact, it may not be. But it is a story of Christian values, integrity and it is a testimony that God lives. I think that there is probably more to this account, I'm sure there will be a sequel. I hope there will be - because I really want to know how Bodi's life turns out.
David Kirkham has enough worries. He has a stressful job that sends him all over the world with no thought to his family life, and he has a wife and daughter who are tired of never having him home. When David boards the small plane, his thoughts are on how to hold it all together. But when the plane goes down, and he and a young Mormon girl are the sole survivors, he suddenly has much bigger problems.
This is a wonderful book about priorites and newfound faith. It is very different from any other fiction book I have read recently and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It gave me a lot to think about. I love it when a book makes me think. This is a passage I especially liked:
"I was brought up to R.S.P.P.," she said, cutting me off. At first, I thought I had misunderstood her. "You mean R.S.V.P.?" "No. R.S.P.P. Before you judge anything, you need to Read, Study, Ponder and Pray. R.S.P.P." "Oh, like it says in the Book of Mormon." This time she was the one caught off guard. "How did you know that?" I noticed a beetle crawling over my shoe and slowly flicked it away, trying to delay my answer. " I read the introduction," I admitted softly. Smiling broadly, she said, "That's a start."
This book has drama, intrigue, suspense, and even Spanish! (I was quite thrilled when I actually understood the few sentences in the book that were in Spanish, and they really aren't translated into English.) I think this is a great book for about any age above 12 years old. I'm sure you'll learn something and come away with new insights into the Book of Mormon and yourself.
Another fantastic thriller from Clair M. Poulson! The disappearance of seventeen-year-old Cody Lind has everyone worried. It seems that for every one person who loved Cody and his family, there were an equal amount that didn't. Sheriff Vince Hanks and his deputy Kara Smith have the task of trying unravel the mystery and find Cody, and their suspect list continues to grow. Then, just when they think they have an idea of what is going on, one of their suspects is found - dead - and they realize that things are not always what they appear.
Stories are never boring when the author is Clair M. Poulson! As you follow along with the plot, you are just sure you know what is going on and who is who. Then, suddenly, WHAM! You find out that you had no idea what was going on at all!! This is a great suspense, mystery, thriller and even a little romance type book. You'll love the twists and turns but avoid the temptation to look ahead to the end; it will ruin it if you know what's coming. A great book for teenagers and up.
Set in 62 BC, in the Land of Zarahemla, comes a story about Kiah, the daughter of Captain Moroni. She ventures off farther from her home than she should and meets Jeran, a Lamanite. Soon they are involved in an evil plot that threatens to destroy all that is important to her.
This is a very different idea for a book. It truly is like no other fiction book I've read recently. What a fun ride! It has romance, adventure, betrayal, complicated relationships, good, evil and intrigue. The author has set this book in the midst of an ancient civilizations and takes us on a journey that is unique and unpredictable. It is a great book for all ages.
Jana has huge ambitions for her twin brother Alex. She dreams of getting him elected as Student Body President at their school, Fairport High. Alex has no interest in being President, but their Mormon friend, James, does. Jana thinks he will never win, he's too big of a "nobody". Then one day Jana realizes she can give James a makeover from a "nobody" to a "somebody" and he may just become Student Body President. But she has no idea what she may encounter and learn through it all.
This a great book for teenagers. In some ways I found it painful because it was so accurate in how I thought of myself and others, when I was a teenager. It reflected how one may feel about being popular and the decisions that one has to make in high school. I thought this book had a good morals and lessons about friendship and being true to yourself. It was light and fun and a person of any age could read it.
Every woman needs a group of women to be her confidantes, best buddies, cheerleaders, help and support. In "The Indepence Club" five women have exactly that. A group of women that understand their individual, single situations and are there to support each other. Maxine is 62 years old and doesn't ever want to be married again, but her gentleman friend thinks differently. Tina was freed from years of abuse when her husband died. Can she put her past behind and love again? Evie thinks she hates the woman that stole her husband from her. Rosalva thinks that she knows what she wants, and it has nothing to do with Willard Oakman. Bernice thinks that one should never marry again, but ends up with the biggest secret of them all.
I love books about women and their groups. This is a fun read, full of romance, friendship, overcoming obstacles, and teaching the rest of us to be there for each other. We learn that it doesn't matter our different ages - we can all be what another needs. I love Rachel Ann Nunes books, and this one certainly does not disappoint.
It all started with a cake. Annabelle Pleasanton needs a cake, (not just any cake, a Portuguese cake from a particular bakery) to keep her boss happy and hopefully smooth over past incidents. But the cake brings more than she's bargained for: a cute new guy in her life, a promotion at work, and competition among old acquaintances.
This book really is laugh-out-loud funny! My son kept asking me why I was laughing, because I just couldn't keep it in! (I do read alot, but very rarely ever laugh). It is my ideal romance. Girl meets boy. Girl likes boy. Girl makes fool of herself while trying to appear cool for boy. This book was written by a woman who truly understands the insecurites that girls can have, with appreciation for a good clothing sale. It was a wonderful book and great entertainment for a girl of any age.
Have you ever wondered just what happened to the Brother of Jared's stones? In this book, archaeologist Mathilda Howard stumbles across stories of stones that shine by themselves over and over again. Each mention that is made, she is more intrigued. From the Tibetan monk, to a mountain in China, and a lost city in Brazil, she is following a mystery that will mean more to her than knowledge of artifacts.
I love it when a book gets me excited to learn about new subjects! I finished this book with a whole new appreciation of the Book of Mormon and desire to learn more about ancient civilizations. I was fascinated by the new pieces of information that I learned about the Book of Mormon that once again testify of its truth. For example, the colophon that is mentioned by the author in relation to the Book of Mormon is something that I have never heard of before. But when she describes it, it makes sense. And how would a young man from New York with limited education know anything about it? I loved this book. I loved the premise, the idea, it was easy to read and it was totally original.
Really, all I have to say is, this is the newest Anita Stansfield book. From that statement you could probably figure out a few different things. One, that this book is a part of a series, which happens to be called the Barrington Family Saga - her newest series and this is Volume One. It is set in England in 1838 on an English estate. Two, you could also figure out that it is a romance. And it is. A very good one. It does have a few more intimate details than most of her books, but is done very tastefully with a beautiful explanation in the Foreword at the beginning of the book. The third thing you could figure out from my previous statement is, it's addicting. Most of Anita Stansfield's books grab you from the beginning and don't let go. That would be the same with this one. I was swept into it from the first paragraph and I have to say - it is really good.
I do feel that I should give a brief warning. This book does contain some adult subject matter. I state this so that readers know that this is a book geared more toward adults and maybe late teenagers.
"Consumed with unbearable guilt, Kam Daniels, an ex-Seattle policeman, is unable to forget the horrific accident he is certain he could have prevented. Desperate to escape his anguish, he takes a job halfway across the world and leaves everything behind: his home, his career, and his beautiful, bewildered wife — CIA agent Rhiana Daniels. When an undercover operative is kidnapped by a fanatical Arab faction in Yemen, Kam's knowledge of the language and culture prove to be invaluable, and he is recruited to help rescue the agent. However, the mission becomes even more complicated when he learns that one of the team members is his estranged wife.
Traveling with a research group sponsored by Brigham Young University, Kam and Rhiana attempt to navigate the obstacles that distance and time have placed between them, even as they confront dangerous militants determined to prevent the agent's rescue by any means necessary."
It is always interesting to me just how many different styles of fiction there are. About the time when I have started to think that romance is typical for LDS fiction - I read something like "The Operative" and am reminded that not all fiction is created equal.
"The Operative" is a very intense 'spy' book - to sum it up briefly. We start out with just a minimum of information about Kam Daniels, the main character, and we piece his profile together as we go. It is suspenseful, not at all predictable, and a truly unique book. This novel takes us to several different countries, like France and Yemen. I do have to say that it is the first novel that I have ever read that is located in part in Yemen, and I found it to be well researched and very interesting. Although it is not needed, I do hope there will be a second book to see what happens next in the main characters' lives.
I'm sure you've heard me say before that my favorite type of fiction is the kind that teaches you something new. "Redemption Road" definitely does that. This is a book about Lana, who runs to Africa, specifically to the outskirts of Nairobi, in part to get away from her roots, and in part to discover herself, although she doesn't realize it at the time. She starts out the book thinking that she has life all figured out, but as she gets involved in the lives of people she comes to care about, she realizes that perhaps her answers aren't as simple as she thinks and maybe it's her perspective that needs to be changed.
I was humbled and impressed by this book. It is obvious that the author has a deep love for Africa and the people that inhabit this great continent. I became profoundly aware, as I read, of the excesses that I live in. It was a wonderful reminder that I take a lot of things, such as food, shelter, and an abundance of clothing, for granted. I was impressed with how the author has a gift of making her words and story flow like a river. There was a beauty in the delivery that I appreciated.
This is a very different novel than anything else I've read lately. But it was a beautiful book about forgiveness and love and I highly recommend it.
This is a fascinating story about a family that encounters a homeless man on their family trip across the country for Christmas and they offer him a ride.
I really don't want to say anything more to summarize this book, because I just don't want to give anything away. I think everyone should read it for themselves. This book made me think. I love books that make me think! I have seen two down-on-their-luck people begging at freeway exits since I have finished this book, and I have ceased my thinking that they are con artists, looking for an easy handout. I have had to totally reevaluate my thinking on being a Good Samaritan based on what I have read and now I have a few more ideas of things that I can do for others. This book is a little slow at the beginning, but once you are hooked, (around chapter 2 or 3) then away you go! I do have to say, that you couldn't possibly predict the end! It will take you completely by surprise. I hope you enjoy it too.
"Curiosity can be a curse, and just like the proverbial cat, feisty Shandra Covington could soon end up dead.
As a newspaper reporter, Shandra meets unusual people every day. But Pinky Templeton is the first one who has claimed, quite vocally, to be dead! She would just ignore him as another nut case, except life-threatening events are happening to those close to her. And Pinky seems to be involved--although the official records show he did die in 1957. Now that he's gone and died again, Shandra feels she must find out the truth--even if her friend, police officer Bobby Richter, doesn't want to help. After all, how many times can one man die? With Pinky, it's hard to tell."
This is a Shandra Covington mystery and it's quite entertaining. Shandra is a odd heroine. But she's quite endearing. You will find yourself captivated by the interesting mix of characters that are presented. This book is kind of a continuation of the last Shandra Covington mystery "House of Secrets," but you really don't have to read that one first. In fact, even if you have read it, you don't need to remember it at all to enjoy this one. I really could not predict this book at all, and it has a nice twist at the end. I should warn you; you will be left hanging at the end. There will definitely be a sequel because it's just too cruel to leave us with no resolution!
"Serving a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints proves to be one of the best decisions of Kenidee Ashford's young life. But losing her mom to cancer while she is on her mission devastates her. Kenidee clearly remembered the morning that she'd make the decision to end her mission and go home...Sobbing, she'd fallen to her knees and unloaded her burden...And the moment she turned her burden over to the Lord, the healing began."
Her prayers answered, Kenidee faithfully completes her mission, but new challenges await her when she returns home- a new young stepmother with three unruly children, roadblocks in her career plans, and love where she least expects to find it."
I don't know what it is about Michele Ashman Bell's books, but I love every one. This one was no exception. They are always captivating, they draw you in from the first page. The characters are real and very alive, but they still have weaknesses, which makes them just that much more endearing. This is a story about accepting what is and finding the silver lining in any cloud. It is also a romance, but that isn't the focus of the book. As Kenidee figures out that what is best for her may not necessarily be what she planned, love has a way of stepping in from a direction she doesn't expect it to come from.
I truly enjoyed this book. I read it in just a few hours. I can't wait to read the author's next one.
"For both Wade and Laura, their marriage is a new beginning, a future filled with enough love and magic to last forever. Little can they imagine how one ugly encounter threatens to shatter their fragile joy, opening doors to Laura's past that had been slammed shut by pain."
This is the fourth book in the series that began with "Timeless Waltz". It is the conclusion to problems that had barely begun to surface with Wade and Laura in "Dancing in the Light." Here is my honest opinion, and I hope you'll be able to handle it; I must say that I think it's far more dramatic then it needs to be, and surprisingly, a bit tedious in places. I got the feeling that the author was stretching this story to make it last, rather then conclude it and be done. But please, don't let me damper your enthusiasm for this series. I have loved all of them up to this one. True fans will need to read it, if for no other reason than to have the entire story complete. I truly hope you like it better than I did.
"`Tis the season, and in Haggertty, Georgia, that means Christmas programs, caroling, front-decorating contests, and plenty of festive food to share with yours sometimes eccentric neighbors. Not everyone, however, has caught the Christmas spirit. Kate Iverson doesn't want to accept that there will be more babies in her future, even though her doctor is certain that her childbearing years are behind her. Despite her discouragement, a recurring dream has Kate convinced that there is yet work for her to do. Through faith, prayer, and the assistance of inspired friends, Kate soon becomes part of a modern Christmas miracle- and learns a powerful lesson about the true meaning of Christmas."
Once again, another great book about Haggerty, Miss Eugenia, Kate & Mark Iverson, and Annabelle. These characters are larger than life and this short story manages to convey a sense of what is really important at Christmas through these personalities. If you have read any of the other novels by Betsy Brannon Green and enjoyed them, then you will truly enjoy this book as well.
This is a beautiful book that tells the story of Jesus's birth from the perspective of the innkeeper's wife. The author conveys the message that Mary was probably not alone - giving birth without her family and friends. She must have had help from somewhere. God would have provided help for her.
I thought this was such a touching story that I cried when I read it. The pictures are gorgeous and each chapter is introduced by lyrics of Christmas carols. I'm so happy to be able to add this book to my Christmas collection - and I must say, it's my favorite new Christmas story that I have read this year.
"Eric and his girlfriend Rebekah believe they are safe hiding under the witness protection program. But when a bomb explodes, nearly killing them, they know they must rely on themselves to find out who has infiltrated the FBI. Their shocking conclusion leads them on a dangerous chase. Eric and Rebekah are battling the powers behind a financial conspiracy that has lasted hundreds of years � and may only end with the destruction of mankind.
Nearly out of time, their pursuit of the truth sweeps them to a centuries-old English estate, and then plummets them into the dark catacombs of Paris. It�s now up to the unprepared duo to unravel clues that could save the world from a catastrophic war. However, as they take action, they must ask themselves if the end can ever justify the devastating means they are considering."
I love this author. It takes me a lot to laugh out loud while reading, but this author always does it. The story started in "Wake Me When It's Over." I tried to read "The Counterfeit" first and I was very confused, so I recommend reading the previous one first. I love how the characters are so real. They always think and act like everyday people, for example, they say stupid things, they occasionally embarrass themselves and they have insecurities. I love that.
"The Counterfeit" is a detailed story that starts out fairly lighthearted and grows in complexity throughout. The plot is suspenseful, filled with mystery and intrigue, and you do wonder how the characters are going to get through this. Definitely read "Wake Me When It's Over" first, but after that you will enjoy the conclusion.
"Abraham Franklin feels like an outcast in every sense of the word. As an American Indian living in the Utah Territory--and not a member of the Mormon Church--Abe faces everything from simple ignorance to outright bigotry. To make matters worse, the only woman he has ever loved has chosen to marry his best friend. It is past time for Abe to start his life over. At the urging of his devout mother, Abe settles in Snowflake, Arizona, where he promptly meets Maddie Stratton. Maddie is at first wary of Abe, yet she detects a sensitivity and goodness beneath his embittered exterior and they soon become friends. As Maddie draws ever closer to Abe, he begins to push her away, knowing that her faith--and his lack of faith--will prove to be too large a barrier to result in happiness.
From tender matters of the heart and the anguish of a life-threatening accident to the gentle whisperings of the Spirit, author Annette Lyon completes the powerful story of Abraham Franklin, which began in the best-selling novel House on the Hill."
Another wonderful story. I thought that "House on the Hill" was enough. I was content when it ended. But with this additional story, I realize that I was wrong. It wasn't complete until now. Abe needed to have his story told and now it feel finished.
This book is really about discovery, and the misconceptions that can rule our lives until we recognize them for what they are. It's about romance and testimony and relationships. I love it when I learn about life by reading fiction, and this book gave me some new things to think about. I don't think it's necessary to read "House on the Hill" first. This story is very complete and tells you what you need to know.
"As trials come thick and fast, Wade Morrison finds himself facing devastating loss and a desperate loneliness greater than he ever could have imagined. Thankfully he has a large and loving family, without whose support he could not survive. Ultimately, however, Wade's greatest source of strength comes through his faith and reliance on the Savior's unconditional and atoning love.
Just when it seems that the bottom has fallen out of his world, Wade finds love in the face of loss, trust in a time of personal betrayal-and happiness greater than he had ever hoped to experience again."
This book is next in line after "Timeless Waltz," and "A Time to Dance". It talks about Alex's newly discovered brother Wade and how that happiest time in his life turns quickly into the hardest. Strangely, this was a really great book for me to read. As I have recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, I could totally relate to Wade's entire world turning upside down with the trials he has to go through. I have turned to my novels in the past month as a way to escape my own life, and this book didn't let me down at all. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It also taught me a few things about testimony and helped me cope with my present situation. Anita Stansfield is well-known for her LDS romance novels, and I appreciated this one just as much as all her other books.
"Something fell to the floor with a soft clunk. Margarette stared at object in disbelief. Matthew moved closer, his eyes following hers. There on the rough planks lay a small black bag. He reached for it, and as Soren, Anna, and Jens crowded around, he released the cord that held it closed and gently shook the contents of Margarette's bunk. A glittering bracelet dropped onto a quilt square. All four adults gasped in astonishment. The metal chain appeared to be of inferior quality, but five large stones, each a different color gleamed almost as though they were hungry to claim the small amount of light in the ship's gloomy interior."
Here's a summary of "The Emerald": an expensive bracelet full of priceless gems, falls into Margette's hands. Hoping to encounter the bracelet's true owner on her journey, she refuses to part with it on her journey with her children to join the Saints in Nauvoo. But as life circumstances occur, she is forced to make decisions regarding these gemstones and love.
Jennie Hansen's novels never fail to captivate me. This book is volume 2 in "The Bracelet" series, but it stands completely on its own as a novel. One does not need to read the first one to read this. I am certain that you will enjoy this book as much as I have. This author has once again given us a wonderful book full of romance and suspense. You will come to adore the characters and I hope that the next book will allow us to find out what happens next with them.
As the Depression worsens, a distant war draws near. Dan O�Brian finds he is once again embroiled with the inner conflicts he had hoped were far behind him after returning from World War I. Dan holds a strong convictions that the United States should stay out of the new war� because this time it is his son, Cory, whose life could be threatened by a foreign menace. But convictions can change.
Through his work as a musician, Dan finds an unlikely new friend in Josh Brown, a man who challenges Dan�s view of the world. And though both men share a common tragic link to the past, event of the future will soon forever bind the two men�s families together.
In an era where the future is an uncertain as it is exciting, Cory O�Brian and Nathan Brown know they must defend freedom, just as their fathers have done. What they don�t yet understand are the human costs of war� to those in the battle and those at home.
This is a fascinating work of historical fiction that brings the second world war to life for the reader. The kinship between pilots and co-pilots as well as the immense responsibilities of both pilots and sailors were brought to light as each suffered and succeeded through ultimate trials. This not only portrays the difficulties of the war, but also the hope, the courage and even the romance that can happen when good people are just doing what they can to follow what they know is right. This novel is an excellent educational, yet enjoyable read.
"After escaping a deranged dream-master and destroying the hidden gateway, Leven Thumps and his band of travelers must now journey across Foo and restore Geth from his shape as a toothpick to the rightful king he once was. But Foo is still in chaos, and Leven must overcome several adversaries and survive the Swollen Forest in order to save his friends and keep hope alive. As fate would have it, nothing goes as planned, and even Geth begins to wonder if they will succeed. Bad goes to worse as Leven digs up a long buried seceret- one that stalks him, determined to whisper a truth that could be deadly in the wrong hands."
First thing I have to say is, kids are going to love this book. If you know of kids and teenagers (or even adults) who enjoyed the first book, they are going to love the second. It's another high adventure and it never stops from beginning to end! It's very fun and never predictable. Sometimes I really didn't know if I should cheer for Leven or give up in exasperation but the author (or historian, as the case may be) knows how to pull his audience in. A couple of new characters are introduced and the story continues on through Foo. I have to say I'm a little confused by Foo, but maybe it's because I don't remember my dreams very well. It could also be because I don't have a very good imagination, and it certainly has nothing to do with the actual story of Leven Thumps.
If you have not read the first one, Leven Thumps and the Gateway to Foo, you really should not read this one. It will not make any sense, since there is no history or reference to the first one in book 2, you are just thrown into the story. This is a series that the whole family can enjoy, and I think it should be read just before bed to enhance your dreams - as you learn about Foo.
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