Thoughts of a Reader

Silent Shadows is the third and final book in the Harbored Secrets series.  After reading the book, I no longer know which of the three is my favorite instead I might have to say that reading them as one continuous story would be my favorite. Though each book can be read and enjoyed separately I would recommend reading them all and in order. I find that each one is good but it is even better if you read them all and in order. So in the final book you have two new main characters. Only one of these main characters has been introduced previously, Pecca. The new main character we are introduced to is Colton. Colton is struggling like a lot of us with what happens when what you planned for is disrupted by something unexpected. He is having trouble remembering and accepting that sometimes our plans aren’t what God has for us and what God has for us is better than anything we could come up with. These struggles are effecting his relationships with the people around him. As for Pecca, she is dealing with something that she thinks has to do with her past. But what she doesn’t know is that it has do with something else completely. If you want to know more, then you’ll have to get the book and read it for yourself. You won’t regret it.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in order to give an honest review.

Do you love stories that make you just want to jump into the book for awhile? Or do you love books where you get so into it that you almost feel like you are the main character? Then you’ll absolutely love this book. I am a big fan of Melody Carlson. She has written so many good books over the years and I can’t think of one I haven’t enjoyed. However, I think that this is one of my favorites especially one of my favorite non-Christmas ones. I am finding myself rooting for Dillon and wanting to scream at her mom whenever she’s clearly aggravating her daughter by dumping things on her or implying that her daughter doesn’t know what she wants in life. I love Dillon’s grandpa! And the interactions between Dillion and Jordan are just so funny that I can’t help but almost laugh out loud. If you buy this book, you won’t be disappointed. I fell for it as soon as I saw the cover but I still love it even after reading it. This is definitely a book where the inside matches the outside in terms of appeal.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in order to give an honest review.

This was my second book by Carla Laureano. My first was “Brunch at Bittersweet Cafe” which is the second on in the Supper Club series. This one is the third. I have not yet read the first one in this series, “The Saturday Night Supper Club.” First of, I must say I never turn down a Christian fiction book that is about coffee. It combines my two favorite things coffee and reading. If you’re looking for a great romance, then this book is so good. I feel like I became friends with these characters and I feel like I would get along with them so well. At one point in the book, Bryan is dealt a hand that he tries to handle the right way but luckily gets some good advice from his dad about how he should really handle the situation. Also, Ana has to come to terms with some of her past before she can decide her future. If you want know more, then you’ll have to read the book for yourself. I have to say I do hope the author will put out a fourth book.

Star of Persia by Jill Eileen Smith is the story of Esther, a Jewish girl living in a pagan country. How does she stay faithful to God when forced into a situation that is out of her control? Would she be able to conceal her Jewish heritage? This historical fiction novel is modeled after Esther of the Bible; however, much is added to Esther’s story that is not included in Scripture. If you have never read the book of Esther found in God’s Word, you might consider reading it either before or after reading this novel. It is obvious that Smith is very familiar with the biblical version of Esther and has extensively researched secular history and woven it into her story where appropriate. Personally I viewed this book as just what it is, a historical novel, and I found it to be very entertaining.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in order to give an honest review.

Chasing the White Lion by James R. Hannibal is the second in a series; however, not having read the first one did not pose a problem. This action packed book contains several different story lines in various places worldwide, and at first it is a challenge to see a connection. There is Talia, the main character, who finds her life in danger from the very beginning. Initially she finds it hard to rely on anyone outside herself, but as the story unfolds, you will see this change. Working with a team you have to develop a level of trust in order to survive. Add to that her desire to save a group of children who are refugees and have been kidnapped. This book is very mind boggling, and definitely challenges the reader to stay focused or else get lost in the story. It is very well written and a good read!

Disclaimer: I received a free book in order to give an honest review.