Book Club: Book Review of The Burning of Rosemont Abbey

I received a COMPLIMENTARY copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review or be compensated in any other way. This post contains affiliate links. Please see my Terms of Use and Disclosure Policy page for more information. Thank you.

Who wouldn't love a good murder mystery where the suspense is palatable, but it is not a story filled with gore? Naomi Stephens has succeeded in writing an excellent work of Christian fiction set in 1956. In The Burning of Rosemont Abbey, readers join Louisa Everly on her journey to exonerate her twin brother, Paul Everly. 

About the Book 

In 320 pages, Naomi Stephens introduces a set of characters who live in a quiet English village. These characters come to life under her skillful words and sentences. We first join the story on the night of the fire at Rosemont Abbey. Louisa was alone in the kitchen quite happy one moment, and the next she felt the death of her brother. 

Throughout the novel, we join Louisa as she tries to find out what happened to Paul and whether or not he actually set fire to Rosemont Abbey. She seeks to prove his innocence whether she has to do it by herself or with the help of a recently returned friend of Paul's. Inspector Malcom Sinclair – who had once been Paul's close friend – heads up the investigation. Louise eventually shares the information she has with Malcom. And as readers, we see the pieces fall into place that will help resolve the story.

My Thoughts 

I wasn't sure what to expect when I requested The Burning of Rosemont Abbey to review. While I really enjoy historical fiction, I often prefer those set further back in time than 1956. But this novel was a joy to read. 

The pace of the story was just right. As we uncovered details and clues with Louisa, it was only to be expected that we would want to keep reading. I ended up reading the final third of the book in one night. I needed to see: 

• If Paul was innocent. 
• If David Ashworth really loved Louisa. 
• If Louis's aunt and uncle would support her decisions. 
• If Malcom would figure out who was causing havoc in Wilbeth Green. 

What else did I like about The Burning of Rosemont Abbey? Louisa was a likeable character. She was headstrong but not to the point where I questioned her wisdom. I also loved the way Stephens wrote the book. For example, these sentences are very well crafted: 

"And though Louisa knew he was merely goading Mrs. Watson, she was also struck by the sudden and rather silly notion that she was growing entangled with the kind of boy who had sometimes skipped choir practice." (141) 

"'It really was like a fortress, wasn't it?' she whispered. 'How terrible it is, knowing that such a mighty structure can fall so easily...'" She shivered, her words trailing off. 

The vicar smiled gently. 'God's Word still stands, Miss Everly, and that's enough.'" (244) 

I would recommend The Burning of Rosemont Abbey to those who enjoy Christian fiction, mysteries, suspense, and historical fiction. 

Book Club: Book Review: Of Gold and Shadows

I received a COMPLIMENTARY copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review or be compensated in any other way. This post contains affiliate links. Please see my Terms of Use and Disclosure Policy page for more information. Thank you.

What a wonderful book! Of Gold and Shadows by Michelle Griep ticked so many boxes for me. This paperback from Bethany House is set in 1888 England, with the main characters connecting over the need to properly identify and value a set of Egyptian artifacts. There is adventure, romance, and intrigue all rolled up into a quick read! 

About the Book 

The story starts out during a dark evening in an Oxford cemetery. Ami Dalton is conducting business which will net her an Egyptian artifact that she can supply to a British museum. We next jump to Edmund Price who is returning to Oxford after being abroad in India for eight years. As one of the most eligible bachelors, he is besieged by women who want to woo him. How do the two of them connect? Edmund needs someone to appraise his newly acquired collection of Egyptian artifacts so he can sell them. He seeks out Ami's father who is on a dig in Egypt. Ami offers her services and the rest is history. 

While going through the collection of Egyptian artifacts in Of Gold and Shadows, Ami discovers a piece that is cursed – the golden griffin. This brings about many interesting adventures, including injuries attributed to the cursed griffin and other incidents. Does the curse of Amentuk really exist, though? Ami reminds everyone who will listen that Egyptian curses aren't real and that they should seek their faith in God.

In addition to the appraisal  of the artifacts, Ami and Edmund being to fall in love with each other. But what book wouldn't be complete without complications? These complications include a reading difficulty, another woman, and a kidnapping.

What I Think About Of Gold and Shadows 

I would read Of Gold and Shadows over and over again! My hope is that these characters will be seen in another book, because I really want to learn more about them. 

I appreciated how Christianity and the faith of Ami and Edmund was woven very naturally into the story. There was discussion of Egyptian curses and religion, but Ami was always very firm in her beliefs.

My only complaint is in reference to Ami and her father's desire to see the Egyptian artifacts retired to Egypt. The author, Michelle Griep, does discuss this in the back of the book (with other notes about magic lanterns and palmistry). The view of returning items to the original countries was not one commonly held in Victorian England. I felt that this was allowing modern viewpoints to take too firm of a hold in a work of historical fiction.

Overlooking my one complaint, I can still highly recommend Of Gold and Shadows. 

Are you interested in learning more about Egypt? 

I have several Blogging Through the Alphabet posts in which I talk about Egyptian history, gods, and goddesses.

• K is for Khnum (Blogging Through the Alphabet)
• I is for Imhotep (Blogging Through the Alphabet)
• R is for Ramses the Great (Blogging through the Alphabet)
• M is for Mummies (Blogging through the Alphabet)
• B is for Bastet (Blogging through the Alphabet)
• I is for the goddess Isis (Blogging through the Alphabet)

Book Club: Book Review of Meeting Her Match

 

I received a COMPLIMENTARY copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review or be compensated in any other way. This post contains affiliate links. Please see my Terms of Use and Disclosure Policy page for more information. Thank you.

Reading historical fiction can be so much fun (especially reading a good one on vacation)! I was lucky enough to start reading Meeting Her Match by Jen Turano while on vacation. It was the perfect book to read while soaking up the sun. So, while Meeting Her Match, the third book in The Matchmaker Series, is set in West Virginia, I was introduced to Owen and Camilla down the shore.

About the Book 

The story opens with a chase through the Hudson River Valley in the Spring of 1889. Our heroine, Miss Camilla Pierpont, is riding with her companion, Lottie, when unknown assailants attempt to kidnap her. It's during this escapade that Camilla meets Owen who is there to meet her.

Owen Chesterfield is seeking help to make a refined lady out of his sister, Luella. There have been some pretty disastrous run-ins between the Chesterfield and the Murchendorfer families of Wheeling, West Virginia. Eventually, Camilla agrees to help and travels to West Virginia. 

Of course, helping Luella isn't the only plot point of Meeting Her Match. Camilla herself is facing potential matchmaking as is Lottie, Owen's grandmother, and others.

My Thoughts 

This is a really fun book. From Camilla's pets to a surly pig named Esmerelda, there are quite a few humorous and well-written moments. The family and friends of the main characters, while not at the center of the story, jump off the page and invite the reader to learn more about them. 

The description of the homes, furniture, and clothing also brings the novel to life. While reading Meeting Her Match, I could feel myself sitting on the yellow sofa and hearing the swish of period dresses. 

I would recommend Meeting Her Match for those who enjoy historical fiction.

Book Club: Book Review of The Beginner's Bible Craft and Activity Book

I received a COMPLIMENTARY copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review or be compensated in any other way. This post contains affiliate links. Please see my Terms of Use and Disclosure Policy page for more information. Thank you.

The Beginner's Bible Craft and Activity Book is a good resource for families, Christian schools, and Sunday Schools. It is full of 30 fun projects based on Bible stories. The paperback book published by Zonderkidz features color photographs and illustrations. 

About the Book 

Everyday objects can be easily made to help bring your Bible time to life. There are 30 projects that align with stories in both the Old and New Testaments found in The Beginner's Bible. However, I do not think you need to have The Beginner's Bible in order to use this book in your home. You can easily seek out the stories referenced in the Bible translation of your choice. 

Some of the crafts include: 

• Snake sock puppet
• Decorating a t-shirt 
• Friendship bracelet 
• Paper plate crown 

Some of the activities include: 

• Making a banana boat dessert
• Baking bread 
• Creating a blanket tent 

Some of the Bible stories include: 

• Creation 
• Joseph 
• David and Goliath 
• Jonah
• John the Baptist 
• Jesus' entrance into Jerusalem (Palm Sunday) 

Our Thoughts 

This is a great resource for homeschooling families and children's church leaders who need help making connections to the Bible fun and relatable. I found quite a few crafts and activities that would I like to do with our children. For example, I would like to make the three crafts connected with the flood and Noah, the Ten Commandments, and Psalm 23. Our son and daughter are looking forward to building a tent under our dining room table. And our daughter is eager to help me bake bread.

We made one craft so far (the handprint dove) and read through a few of the stories shared before the craft instructions. The only recommendation I would have for the book is to include step-by-step instructions for parents (and children) who need extra help to complete projects. If that can't be included in the book, perhaps a website could have the images as additional content. 

Looking for More Crafts? 

• Crafts: Noah's Ark Paper Plate Craft 
• Crafts: Purposeful Living – Bring a Light into Your Home
• Crafts: Wisdom Keepsake

Book Club: Book Review of The Berenstain Bears Let's Go Play Collection

I received a COMPLIMENTARY copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review or compensated in any other way. This post contains affiliate links. Please see my Terms of Use and Disclosure Policy page for more information. Thank you.

The Berenstain Bears series has always been a favorite in our house. So, I was delighted to read and review The Berenstain Bears Let's Go Play Collection. The Let's Go Play Collection contains six books in one and includes ten outdoor activities. It is published by Zonderkidz and is part of The Berenstain Bears Living Lights series.

About the Collection 

Each story presents a problem or event that upsets Brother and Sister. We see how they or others react to it and resolve it. The stories include: 

• The Berenstain Bears Faithful Friends
• Sister makes a new friend—a new cub in town. Eventually all the girls become friends. 
• The Berenstain Bears God Made You Special
• Brother and Sister knew God loved them. They could see it in the sunshine and the world around them. When the Bruins visit, they bring Tommy, who is special. The cubs all learn how to play together. 
• The Berenstain Bears Why Do Good Bears Have Bad Days?
• While trying to spend a pleasant day fishing, Brother and Sister have a very bad day. The story helps children see how God watches over them but does not stop rain storms or broken fishing rods.  
• The Berenstain Bears Honesty Counts 
• At the yearly Chapel in the Woods' cub campout, the cubs prepare to win the race down the rapids. 
• The Berenstain Bears Play a Good Game
• Papa Bear coaches Brother and Sister in a difficult soccer game. Both teams learn the importance of fair play. 
• The Berenstain Bears God's Wonderful Game (previously titled All Things Bright and Beautiful) 
• Missus Ursula takes the children on a nature walk to see the beauty of God's world. 

Favorite Return and New Characters Join the Stories 

• The entire Bear Family including Papa, Mama, Brother, Sister, and Honey 
• The Bruin Family, including Lizzy 
• Suzy MacGrizzie 
• Cousin Fred
• Preacher Brown
• Too-Tall Grizzly
• Missus Ursula
• And other bears

My Thoughts 

The stories are easy to read aloud, which make them easy for bedtime stories. Each page is beautifully illustrated. One could flip through the pages and look for new details each time. A blue bird, a purple butterfly, or new bears in the soccer stands are all waiting to be spied. 

My favorite story of the six is Faithful Friends. My daughter's favorite two are Honesty Counts and Play a Good Game. 

I like that reading these stories is like returning to a simpler time. Brother and Sister are friends from my own childhood, so it is nice to share them with my own children. 

Looking for Some Fun Crafts 

• Crafts: Bear Figure 
• Crafts: Bear Collage
• Crafts: Bear Painting

Book Club: Book Review of The Sisters of Corinth

I received a COMPLIMENTARY copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review or be compensated in any other way. This post contains affiliate links. Please see my Terms of Use and Disclosure Policy page for more information. Thank you.

Without knowing it, I picked book 2 in The Emissaries Series to review. While it would have been nice to have read the first book, I did not find it necessary to my enjoyment of The Sisters of Corinth by Angela Hunt. 

About the Book 

This work of Biblical fiction is set in Corinth during the early days of the Christian Church. Paul is in Rome and Aquilla and Priscilla visit our main character in the opening pages of the novel. The story revolves around two sisters—Mariana and Prima. The interactions with religions and the politics of the day surround the sisters and their family. 

Mariana and her mother, Hester, worship Adonai and trust in Yeshua. Prima, Mariana's stepsister, worships the Roman gods and goddesses (using the Greek name for some, as they live in the Greek city of Corinth). Prima visits the temple of Aphrodite throughout the novel and calls upon the goddess to help her. Narkis—the paterfamilias—worships the Roman gods but is not upset about his wife and stepdaughter worshiping Adonai. Prima is the one who sees this as an affront to the Roman empire.  

While Mariana merely seeks to honor Adonai, Prima is interested in wealth and social status. With the arrival of a new provincial governor in Corinth, Narkis, as chief magistrate, sees an opportunity to secure his power and fortune. And since Memmius—the provincial governor—has a young son who is an eligible bachelor, this provides the perfect opportunity to secure a betrothal for Prima. 

Much to Prima's dismay, things do not turn out to her liking, and she seeks the favor and assistance of Aphrodite. This leads to many visits to the temple and the gladiatorial arena. 

My Thoughts 

I enjoyed reading The Sisters of Corinth. It was definitely a page-turner. With chapters going back and forth between the viewpoints of the sisters, it was easy to keep reading.

The historical description was also very accurate. It is clear that Hunt does extensive research to help bring her novels to life. 

My only complaint is in regard to the character choices of Prima. She went to the arena to have relations with a gladiator, allowed the high priestess of Aphrodite to influence her morals, and frequented taverns. I would have preferred the author to share fewer details about the prostitute-like actions of Prima. 

If you enjoy Biblical historical fiction, I would recommend The Sisters of Corinth. 

Looking For More Book Reviews? 

• Book Club: Book Review of Up from Dust
• Book Club: Book Review of These Tangled Threads

Book Club: Book Review of Girls of the World

I received a COMPLIMENTARY copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review or be compensated in any other way. This post contains affiliate links. Please see my Terms of Use and Disclosure Policy page for more information. Thank you. 

I am always looking for ways to encourage both of our children. I think it is wonderful to share books that highlight different jobs available to girls and boys. Girls of the World: Doing More Than Ever Before, written by Linsey Davis and Michael Tyler and illustrated by Lucy Fleming, celebrates "equality and fairness and encourages all children to use their voices, talents, and intelligence to spread the word that it's time to recognize just how powerful girls are and can be in this challenging world." 

About Girls of the World 

This is a 32-page hardcover book written for children ages 4 to 8 years old. The opening page has a spot to write the child's name along with who presented the gift and when. The story is told in an easy-to-read rhyme: 

"The sun will shine and the moon will glow. The birds will fly and the wind will blow. There's another great truth all people should know. The girls of the world are ready to go!" 

Many of the pages are illustrated with one large picture, such as a classroom or car mechanic shop, while others don't spread across both pages. For example, there is one page depicting two girls running for class president and on the opposite side are two girls in a science lab with a microscope. 

Davis is an Emmy Award-winning journalist and anchors World News Tonight on Sunday, as well as other news programs. At the end of the book, Davis mentions Simone Biles, Mo'ne Davis, Carole Simpson, and Oprah Winfrey as women who succeeded despite being girls.

My Thoughts 

Unfortunately, I do not think it is the right book for our family. One of the lines of the book implies that we—girls—are not equal. And I don't believe that. Girls and women are an important part of God's plan for the world. While we may do different things, hold different jobs, or perform different tasks, we are loved equally by God. That is what is important to me. 

My other concern is that there is a page about pollution with the text: "It's time we all work to care for our Earth. Let's guard our great planet and honor its worth." As a former zoo educator, I found the text and illustration to not be completely age-appropriate. It has been many years since a workshop where we discussed at what age we could share about pollution, deforestation, introduced species, etc. But I remember that younger children are not able to process heavy tasks. An ocean with lots of trash would not have been my choice for the illustration or concept. Picking up trash in one's backyard or park would be more age-appropriate. 

Are You Looking for a Book For Your Children? 

• Book Club: Book Review of I'm So Glad You Were Born
• Book Club: Book Review of Operation: Happy
• Book Club: Book Review of Kit and the Missing Notebook

  

Book Club: Book Review of I'm So Glad You Were Born

I received a COMPLIMENTARY copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review or be compensated in any other way. This post contains affiliate links. Please see my Terms of Use and Disclosure Policy page for more information. Thank you.

Buying books for baby showers and young children's birthdays can be difficult if you wish to purchase ones that direct the children (and parents) towards God. I'm So Glad You Were Born: Celebrating Who You Are, written by Ainsley Earhardt and illustrated by Kim Barnes, provides us with an excellent choice for those occasions. This lovely hardcover book experiences the love of a child and ties in our connection with the Lord.

About I'm So Glad You Were Born 

The hardcover book starts and ends with the story. If you are looking for publication information, that is discreetly provided on the back of the book. The start of the story shows a celebration. Boys and girls of varying ages, ethnicities, and abilities are shown in a party atmosphere. As we progress through the book, readers are reminded of how celebrated they were when they were born. 

"The world JUMPED FOR JOY at God's big plans for you." 

While direct Bible quotes are not shared, we can see the Word of God in the text here: "God made you SPECTACULAR—one of a kind—Creatively crafted. Divinely designed." This reminds me of Psalm 139:14. 

As we continue to read I'm So Glad You Were Born, we see children completing fun activities and tasks such as dancing with their mom, building dragon wings, and star gazing. Careers and jobs are mentioned as "you can be anything you want to be," such as an electric car maker, a loving caretaker, a preacher, or a mom or dad. 

Character traits that we want to see displayed in our children are shared, such as compassion and honesty, as well as feelings that our children may have, such as anger. These are handled in a simple way, emphasizing that parents (and others) are always so glad their children were born. 

And finally, the book comes full circle, back to the celebration of our children's special day. 

"Celebrate all the wonderful, incredible things that make your little one so spectacular and one of a kind—and share all the reasons you were so glad they were born." 

My Thoughts 

I really appreciate the fact that God is woven lightly throughout the book. If you are seeking to purchase a book for a family new to the faith or even one that does not practice Christianity, this is a good choice. It is not an overly religious book, where God's hand in creating our children is mentioned on every page. Instead, it is a natural way to include his relationship with our families and children. 

In addition to the inclusion of God as our Father, I am also happy that a variety of jobs are included in the text. The emphasis placed on a mom or dad is also particularly important. With changes in society, the position of a mom or dad is not always seen as a calling so I love the pages devoted to this choice. 

Finally, I also appreciate that the book isn't focusing on a birthday as a celebration. This makes the book perfect for gifting and reading at any time of the year. The child is being celebrated because they were made. They are part of God's creation and should be celebrated. 

While there are a few parts that Christian parents may object to (such as "you can be anything you want to be"), I would recommend this book for young children ages 0 to six for parents to read. And children six to nine would probably enjoy reading it on their own. Our nine-year-old daughter enjoyed my reading it to her. 

Interested in More Book Reviews? 

• Book Club: Book Review of Tiny Truths Little Lights Devotional
• Book Club: Book Review of The Berenstain Bears Storybook Bible Search and Find
• Book Club: Book Review of Easter Love Letters from God, Updated Edition

Book Club: Book Review of Operation: Happy

I received a COMPLIMENTARY copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review or be compensated in any other way. This post contains affiliate links. Please see my Terms of Use and Disclosure Policy page for more information. Thank you.

Finding good, clean books for children ages 8-12 has become a real struggle. We have some favorite authors, but I am always looking to add more books to our shelves because our children love to read. I was pleased to have the opportunity to read and review Operation: Happy by Jenni L. Walsh. 

Operation: Happy is a hardcover, 230-page book geared towards children ages 8-12 published by Zonderkiz. It is "a World War II story of courage, resilience, and an unbreakable bond" between a young girl and her dog, Happy. Over the course of 40 chapters, we see the main characters move from one difficult situation to another and persevere. 

About Operation: Happy 

The main characters of this historical fiction are Jody, her dog Happy (who is a fictional addition), her sister Peggy, her mom, and her dad (who all play prominent parts in the book). Jody is inspired by a real-life Pearl Harbor survivor named Joan Zuber Earle. Jody also has several friends in the different locations in which she lives. And while the work is fiction, Walsh borrowed from real people, places, and events. This helps bring the book to life.

We start the novel in 1938 at Christmas when Jody receives Happy as a gift. He is a retired sentry dog for a military base whose eyesight is going and is aging. Happy is quite content to be back on duty as he 'shares' in one of the chapters told partially from his perspective. He loves Jody and his new family and sets out to take care of her and – in turn – them.

The plot starts to take shape when Jody's father is sent a telegram to report to Ford Island at Pearl to assume command of the Marine Barracks. Her mother is not very happy. She does not want to go, but they are "Team Zuber" and always move together. Her mom's feeling of unease continues after the move and through the rest of the book in varying degrees. 

While on the island, Jody and her sister Peggy make friends, enjoy their new school, and push through their relationship as sisters. Air raid drills and blackouts on the island become another big part of their lives. Eventually, the drills stopped because December 7, 1941 occurred: Pearl Harbor and their small island were attacked. That leads to more changes in which Mom, Jody, and Peggy leave Ford Island and end up in San Francisco.

The events in San Francisco demonstrate the courage and resiliency of Jody in a different way. Jody's mom is very distraught and depressed about being away from her husband. So, while Jody does her best to lead Team Zuber at the request of her father, things start to fall apart. Jody's mom stays on the couch most days, sleeping. Jody and Peggy have to fend for themselves in regards to laundering their clothes, reheating meals that their mom cooks once or twice a week, and getting to and from school. 

In the end, everything works out, but there are some bumps on the road to happiness for Team Zuber. Jody must find a way to trick others into believing her mom is well and taking care of them. And Peggy suffers a trauma that changes her. Through it all, Happy remains a constant and loyal companion to the entire family. 

My Thoughts 

One of the things I enjoyed about Operation: Happy is the lists that Jody creates when they move to a new place. As a military family, they move often. So, in each new location, Jody makes a top ten list of the best things. For example, on Ford Island, she adds: 

4. It's still 80 degrees in January. 

5. The other kids here are nifty. 

I think this is a wonderful thing to encourage in children. Have them look for the positive things in life, especially during difficult times such as moving. 

Even in the midst of danger and tension, there are funny moments. One such event occurs when Jody, Peggy, and their friends have a mango war. And while the children have fun in this adventure, we see consequences happen for the main characters. A valuable lesson is learned in some respect (they continue to lie to their mom about what happened).

While I really enjoyed this book, I do have a few concerns before handing it off to our children. The trauma that changes Peggy is quite dramatic. She is cornered by a strange man in their first apartment building lobby in San Francisco. Happy knows something is up and gets Jody to bring him downstairs, where he rescues Peggy. As a mom, I do not think this exact situation was necessary to demonstrate Happy's courage and bond with the family or change Peggy. I would much rather have seen Peggy facing bullies or something that would fit into the normal scope of an 8- to 12-year-old rather than a potential assault of this type. 

And of course, parents would need to consider the fact that this book is providing a first-hand account of the events at Pearl Harbor. If your children enjoy learning about history, and in particular, World War II, this might not cause any problems for you. As long as you are there to talk about the events and your children's feelings, then it should be okay.

Even with my reservations, I would recommend this book. Every parent can make their own decisions about the book. If one has concerns, then read it aloud together. Then, you can edit what you feel is necessary until a time when your children are older.

I am looking forward to seeking more books by Jenni L. Walsh. I enjoyed her writing style. The characters really come to life through the actions and dialogue. Overall, Operation: Happy is a good book. 

Other Reviews of Zonderkidz and Zondervan Books 

• Book Club: Book Review of Sunny Days Ahead
• Book Club: Book Review of 'Twas the Season of Lent
• Book Club: Book Review of Kiki Finds Her Voice

Book Club: Book Review of These Tangled Threads

 

I received a COMPLIMENTARY copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I was neither required to write a positive review nor compensated in any other way. This post contains affiliate links. Please see my Terms of Use and Disclosure Policy page for more information. Thank you.

The Biltmore Estate (and its surrounding countryside) is the backdrop for These Tangled Threads by Sarah Loudin Thomas. Woven throughout a prologue, 48 chapters, and an epilogue, readers are introduced to a selection of characters from 1897 to 1924. Three main characters share their lives with us as we learn about weaving, woodworking, family, and truth. 

About the Book 

Sarah Loudin Thomas shares her knowledge of the Biltmore Estate, where she worked for six years, with her audience. The story starts with young Arthur meeting Mr. Vanderbilt and takes us through events in the first and second decades of the 1900s. 

Arthur is joined by Lorna, who works for Biltmore Industries and is tasked with designing and weaving fabric for the engagement of Cornelia Vanderbilt. The next main character is introduced as we see her joining the Biltmore Village. Gentry is a young girl who will be training in the weaving room under the tutelage of Lorna. As a 16-year-old, she is not eager to focus and lacks patience in completing her tasks. Conflict arises as the three characters interact in the 348-page paperback book from Bethany House.

At the heart of the novel, Thomas tells the story of the relationships between Arthur, Lorna, and Gentry. The three each have their own troubles. Arthur was sent away by his alcoholic parents and has a clubfoot. Lorna is a skilled weaver but lacks the creativity needed to design her own patterns. And poor Gentry was sent away by her unloving grandfather after her mother died. In between these details are tangled threads that bring them together again and again. 

Appalachian Author Highlights Historic Vanderbilt Wedding as Centennial Approaches

My Thoughts 

As someone who enjoys historical fiction, I was intrigued by the description of These Tangled Threads. I had a general knowledge of the Vanderbilts – in fact, I think I read another work of historical fiction featuring Cornelia – but I knew little else specific to this industry or locale. 

May I admit that I had trouble following the story when I first picked up the book? It arrived when I didn't have a lot of time to devote to more than one chapter during each reading. This made it difficult to follow the jumps between character perspectives and years in the different chapters. After a few personal and family events passed, I sat down and devoted time to reading These Tangled Threads. With the extra time to read uninterrupted, I followed the story much better.

I really enjoyed the story of Arthur. His attempt to help a family member was touching and well-written. I loved seeing his losses and successes detailed. And I was so happy with the end of his story. 

I didn't connect as closely to Lorna or Gentry, but without these two young ladies, the story would not advance. In the end, I appreciated the honesty that emerged and the growth of the characters. 

I would recommend These Tangled Threads to those who enjoy historical fiction and Christian novels. Through all the troubles, the book is encouraging and uplifting.

Book Club: Book Review of 'Twas the Season of Lent

 

I received a COMPLIMENTARY copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. This post contains affiliate links. Please see my Terms of Use and Disclosure Policy page for more information. Thank you.

How do you and your children prepare for Easter? Next year, you can prepare with 'Twas the Season of Lent: Devotions and Stories for the Lenten and Easter Season. This beautiful hardcover book is written by Glenys Nellist and illustrated by Elena Selivanova. 

With 'Twas the Season of Lent, your family can start a new Lenten tradition. Over the course of forty days, you will share "the powerful meaning of Lent through prose and poetry, Scripture and prayer" (book jacket). Each day provides a specific message from the Bible, and most include a prayer. 

Woven through the book is a poem similar to 'Twas the Night Before Christmas. If your children are familiar with that poem, they will definitely enjoy the reading of this book each day. 

The topics and messages shared are those familiar to Christian families. On day one, children learn about Lent and then move on to read or hear about: 

• Four fishermen who join Jesus 
• Jesus as a teacher
• Nicodemus and his questions 
• How to pray and what to pray
• Parables
• And more. 

And the book closes with the poem on day forty. 

Our Thoughts 

I think this is a lovely book. The content opens up the room for a lot of good conversations with children. Before or after reading the day's entry, you could read the actual verses in the Bible. These are listed where applicable. For example, on day twenty-nine, when you read about love for everyone, Matthew 8:1-3 is listed. 

"Jesus reached out to heal, hold, and bring hope to everyone" (36). 

My daughter was very happy with the arrival of 'Twas the Season of Lent. She is quite happy to sit with me as I read each day's entry. 

I would recommend 'Twas the Season of Lent to families wanting to start new traditions. It will be a beautiful addition to your bookshelves. 

Interested in Other Book Reviews? 

Book Club: Book Review of The Berenstain Bears Storybook Bible Search and Find

Book Club: Book Review of Tiny Truths Little Lights Devotional

Book Club: Book Review of Fiona and the Easter Egg Hunt

Book Club: Book Review of Easter Love Letters from God, Updated Edition

 

I received a COMPLIMENTARY copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. This post contains affiliate links. Please see my Terms of Use and Disclosure Policy page for more information. Thank you.

Are you looking for a book to read this Holy Week? Easter Love Letters from God (Updated Edition) is a lovely hardcover children's book that tells the story of Jesus' last week on Earth before his crucifixion and resurrection. The stories from the Bible are shared by Glenys Nellist and illustrated by Sophie Allsopp. 

The contents of Easter Love Letters from God contain the following stories: 

• King of Kings (Ride in Jerusalem) 
• What Love Looks Like (Washing Feet) 
• The Secret Supper (Last Supper) 
• The Gloomy Garden (Gethsemane) 
• The Darkest Day (Crucifixion) 
• The Quiet Cave (Burial) 
• The Super Surprise (Resurrection) 

Each of these stories indicates where specifically in the Bible you can find the story. For example, if you want to read about the Last Supper in the Bible, Easter Love Letters from God directs you to Luke 22:14-20 and John 14:1-6. 

The illustrations are simple, and the colors selected for each scene are perfect. Many of the individual pictures are highlighted in a light yellow, and there are embellishments of what look like photographed pieces, such as scrapbook pieces. 

While the sentences are simple to read, the message is very clear. In The Darkest Day, we read of the despair felt and the sadness of the Earth itself. A very important moment is presented in a way that children will be able to understand. 

"The wind howled. The whole earth trembled. The rocks shattered." 

In addition to engaging stories and beautiful illustrations, there are two other key features in this book. Each section includes a letter to your child from God. You could add your child's name in the space where it says "Dear____________," or just merely read their name aloud. Personally, I feel these letters really help connect the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus with our children's own lives. And the final feature is "God's Wonderful Words to You." Each of these "Words" is a quote from the Bible. The last one reads: "You are all children of God by believing in Christ." Galatians 3:26. 

At the very end of the book, there is a short poem inviting your child to write to God. And with that, this book becomes a beautiful keepsake for you and your children. 

My Thoughts 

I was very pleased with Easter Love Letters from God. This is a wonderful book for children! I also think it would be the perfect gift for inside an Easter Basket. I highly recommend this book. 

Interested in Other Book Reviews? 

Book Club: Book Review of The Berenstain Bears Storybook Bible Search and Find

Book Club: Book Review of Tiny Truths Little Lights Devotional

Book Club: Book Review of Fiona and the Easter Egg Hunt

Book Club: Book Review of Up from Dust

 

I received a COMPLIMENTARY copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. This post contains affiliate links. Please see my Terms of Use and Disclosure Policy page for more information. Thank you.

Heather Kaufman's latest book, Up from Dust: Martha's Story, is a nice mix of Biblical fiction and the examination of real events from the Bible. In the first book of the Women of the Way series, readers are introduced to the family of Martha, Mary, and Lazarus of Bethany. Events start in the book with the birth of Mary and continue through the lives of the three siblings. 

With the untimely death of their mother, Martha becomes responsible for rearing her siblings with the help of their grandmother and a few women from Bethany. While she and Lazarus are similar in demeanor in some regards, Mary is a rambunctious child who never seems to listen. She is often out wandering on her own instead of fulfilling required tasks. While their father is still with them, that doesn't mean that he necessarily helps raising his children. In fact, he seems to have never gotten over the death of his wife.

Throughout the story, we see the father move to raising sheep, and this is where the first love of Martha appears. A young shepherd is hired to take care of the family's flock. A future seems to be in the works, but hardship strikes and things change. Years pass, and the family has become prosperous. Eventually, their father dies, and Lazarus takes on the full responsibility of the family. 

It is during this time that Lazarus is in charge that the family hosts Jesus. This is where we see events follow the Bible accounts more closely. After all, we don't really know anything about the early lives of the three siblings. So Martha's first love, the relationship with their father, and the friendships in Bethany are all fictional accounts provided by the author. 

My Thoughts 

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Up from Dust. The joining together of Biblical fiction and real accounts was beautifully done. Kaufman explains in her author's note how and why she made the decisions she made regarding the fictionalized parts, which I appreciate. 

The lives of the three siblings really came to life – especially that of Martha. After reading this book, I felt like I really knew her. Even though many of the details were fictional, one could, after researching the time period, easily see the events taking place. Whether or not they would have happened to Martha, it doesn't matter. They are typical of the time and thus historically accurate, in that manner. 

I would recommend Up from Dust to those who enjoy Biblical fiction. It was a good work that I was eager to read each day. My only complaint is in regard to the book cover. The book itself has an odd texture and is not one that I enjoyed holding. I wish book companies would not use textured paper for their book covers. 

Want to Read More Reviews 

Book Club: Book Review of The Worry-Free Parent Workbook

Book Club: Book Review of All's Fair in Love and Christmas

Book Club: Book Review of Sunny Days Ahead

I received a COMPLIMENTARY copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. This post contains affiliate links. Please see my Terms of Use and Disclosure Policy page for more information. Thank you.

Devotionals are a great way to incorporate more Bible reading into your life and the lives of your children. Sunny Days Ahead: 150 Devotions for Health and Happiness by Lindsay A. Franklin is just the devotional to add to your teen or college-aged child's bookshelf. 

"This world we live in is dark, difficult, and painful," starts the introduction (1). This is such a sad and honest truth. Our children, especially our older ones who are on social media and out in the world, face the sin-fallen world. How do we help them when they feel helpless or hopeless? Sunny Days Ahead provides 150 days of Bible quotes, reflections, and questions to help our children get started. 

About the Book 

The 154-page paperback book features one devotion per page. The Bible quotes are NIV, ESV, or NKJV. Through quotes from both the Old and New Testaments, we see how "God breathes hope into his Word" (1). 

The ten-minute devotions focus on some of the following topics: 

• Goals and dreams
• Money
• Talents and skills
• Serving others
• Role models from the Bible
• The different characteristics of God 

Each devotion begins with a Bible quote, moves into two or three paragraphs expounding upon the quote and relating to the reader, and then a reflection section with space for the reader to write down their thoughts and answers.

My Thoughts 

I really enjoyed Sunny Days Ahead. Even though the book is written for our teens or college-aged children, I felt that so much could be applied to my own life. There are parts that focus on things important to our youth. For example, new life skills they are learning and school/college interactions. But I think parents and children could read this together as part of a normal prayer routine.

I really liked that Franklin told the reader to speak with parents first about troubles and then listed others – pastors, trusted adults, etc. So often our children are told to go to a teacher when their parents should be the first ones to hear about troubles and problems. However, Franklin does write that if there are problems at home or elsewhere, the reader should seek appropriate help.

The only thing I had trouble with was the white text on the yellow background for the devotion headings and reflection text. The yellow did not make it easy on the eyes. 

The book points to being positive but finding that hope in Scripture and the Lord. There is no new age happy advice such as "do what makes you happy." Insights point to biblical and scientific truths. What a refreshing devotional for our families. 

Interested in More Books Published by Zondervan? Check out these reviews! 

• Book Club: Book Review of The Berenstain Bears Storybook Bible Search and Find
• Spending Time with the Bible: A Review of Beloved: 365 Devotions for Young Women from Zondervan
• Book Club: Review of the NIV Beautiful Word Coloring Bible for Girls