A Mosaic of Wings – Kimberly Duffy

 

  Social Distancing and a warm summer Saturday were the perfect combination for this historical novel by Kimberly Duffy.

One of my favourite things is reading about places I’ve visited, recalling my time in the local area.  This offering is set between Ithica, NY – a place we’ve camped near on occasion, and India – a place I’ve only ever visited though others and their experiences.

Nora Shipley is a graduating student at Cornell, from the entomology program her deceased father taught in.  She is fascinated by bugs and the ways that they point to God’s marvellous creation.  She is torn between the opportunity for further study, saving a piece of her father’s legacy and an adventure of discovering in a vastly foreign land.

Set in 1885, she is truly not your typical young lady.  She’s not interested in being traditional in any way and she’s truly an independent spirit.  Through a series of events, she finds herself on the other side of the world, hoping for a special find that will aid in making her future plans come true.

Being a female scientist in this era is not easy and Kimberly paints this picture quite clearly for us.  We meet local people through Nora’s eyes, and see her deeply caring, Christian heart in how she interacts with them.

As I had hoped, this was a great read for an easy day.  Kimberly has given us a fine historical peek into late 19th century struggles for women to be accepted into non-traditional roles, and helps us to see the wonder in creation that is all around us.

I look forward to placing this into our church library. We will recommend it to those who enjoy romance, historical fiction and definitely as a starter novel for anyone venturing into Christian fiction, including our teen girls.

“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.”

 

 

 

Living Lies – Natalie Walters

Lane Kent returns to her home town of Walton, Georgia. Fighting a dangerous depression after the death of her husband, she and her 5 year-old son hope to start a new life.

Out on a walk, she finds a highly disturbing find – a murder has occurred in this quiet town. And the discovery of the body gives a sizeable challenge to the new Deputy, and this all occurs on the first chapter!

Natalie Walters has given her readers an gripping mystery. I found myself not able to walk away from this read, until the last page was turned. She brings the audience into the lives of her characters, and fully into the mystery of the death that affects the whole town.

Lane’s father is less than supportive – unless it makes him look good in the press, and her mother is a willing participant in that behaviour. Her boss is a loving “grandma” who cares for the town through her cooking at the town cafe, where gossip and news get shared with equal zeal, right alongside of caring for others.

While both Lane and Charlie try to establish new normals in their lives, this murder is at the centre of everything. The novel is engaging, a mystery that holds on.

I would recommend this to a “new to Christian Fiction” reader, a John Grisham fan, and those who enjoy intrigue. Natalie is an author I’ve not read before, but be very sure – she’s one who’s work I will seek out again!

“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.”

 

Cost of Betrayal – Henderson, Pettrey and Eason

I am a complete suspense fan – perfect reading for travels and time away. This offering for review as just that. 3 novellas in one edition, and a chance to “meet” 2 authors I’ve not read before.

The first story is by Dee Henderson, Known for her suspense filled series. “Betrayed” returns Paul and Ann Falcon to the reader. This time, they trip into the mystery of a murder, and the case the woman who’s been convicted of it – all because of an auction purchase. Ann thinks she’s picking up props for a new painting…

It was with this novella that I was reminded why I don’t often read this form of fiction. There just isn’t the space for the development and details that a full novel offers. Dee’s Known for her forensic details, and this presentation just doesn’t allow for it. Perhaps this is just the jumping point for a new trilogy?!

Dani Pettrey is an author I’ve not read before, but I know I’ll be picking up again. “Tenni” and her cousin, Julia have a tradition of racing each other to the buoy off the island as a way to end the season. But this time was different. When Tenni arrives at the marker, there is no sign of Julia, but there are signs that something terrible has happened to someone! A storm requires her return to safety, and the dark mystery begins to unfold. And how well this novella draws you in!

Lynette Eason’s contribution is the final section of the book, and “Code of Ethics” is the tale.  An officer is wounded on duty, and despite surviving the surgery – his life is in danger during recovery.  That threat comes because of retaliation of his having reporting a dirty fellow officer.  Lynette weaves this tale with great suspense and is yet another author to add to my list.

This book is a must for church libraries, as well as the readers who want to read the story quickly or for those who are fans of a well constructed suspense story.  Each author skillfully writes the characters faith into the plot line – without it feeling like an afterthought.

“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Little Women Movie – 2018 release

I’m always suspect when someone decides to remake a classic book into a movie or TV show.  So, it was with intrigue that I requested the link to review this movie that hits theaters Sept. 28th, and my screening was provided by Graf-Martin Communications and Pure Flix.  To them I say, “Thank you.”

I think it must be my age, because the only actor I recognized was Lea Thompson as Marmee.  And because of that, I was able to watch the story unfold with basically no “history of roles” to cloud my viewing, or give in to expectations.

What a wonderful way to spend my afternoon off this week! I was completely enthralled, and had to get the tissues out more than once.  The story stays quite close to the book, but the updates for a 2018 audience are spot-on and quite clever.

The relationship between the girls and with Marmee is so special, it almost jumps off the screen.  And then throw Laurie into the mix, and well…it’s just as I pictured things in the book.  This movie has all the feels – and none of them are out-of-place to the situation.  It’s wholesome without being campy.  Proof that Hollywood can do quality family films, this is one I’ll likely invest in the DVD when it is offered.  I know I’ll want to see it again and again.

This is the 150th anniversary of the book, and with this wonderful version – a whole generation will discover this classic, and see just how timeless good writing and stories can be.  Fitting for the whole family, although rated PG-13 (not for language, but a few tense situations), I highly recommend an evening together enjoying this movie.

 

 

 

Paul: Apostle of Christ – a movie review

The latest faith-based movie has hit theatres.  Paul: Apostle of Christ starring Jim Caviezel, better know as Jesus in Mel Gibson’s “The Passion of the Christ”.  As Executive Producer, he was able to bring this movie to life.  In a recent interview he said it was just something he had to bring to the screen.

The scene is Rome in AD67.  The situation for Christians is not good, in fact – we know that they are being used as candles for the Roman court – and Paul is in prison, nearing the end of his life.  Luke, the author of the 4th gospel, and the doctor among the disciples heads to the prison to write down Paul’s memories.  This account will become the book of Acts that we know today.

We see the compound where the Christians are living, and where Priscilla and Aquilla are living.  They are amazed at the gifts the other communities have been sending them.  One of my favourite lines to describe this was, ” even the Corinthians gave generously, if you can believe it!”.   One of the residents is a young boy Tarquin, and he offers himself to be a messenger between this community and some sympathetic Roman families who may be able to assist the Christians in leaving the city.

Luke is able to get someone to covertly get him into Paul’s cell, and he begins to record the accounts of Paul’s journeys.  I always find it fascinating to learn how the events in Acts connect to his letters, and this movie does that well.  For one not acquainted with the Pauline letters though, the skipping of the timeline would be confusing.  It’s impossible to present Paul’s writings in a chronological order when presenting them as memories.

I enjoyed this movie, although I found the settings dark in their lighting.  It would be better in a theatre setting I’m sure.  There were moments that tied themselves up just a little too neatly – but to delve deeper into these issues would have necessitate a much longer presentation.

Thank you to Graf Martin Communications and Sony Pictures for the opportunity to independently review this movie.

 

It’s all about reflecting…

As the calendar turns today, it’s hard to believe it’s the first of December already. Yet, here it is, with the bulk of the year behind us. For some of you that may be a huge relief, and for others, you are sorry to not have many weeks of 2019 left.

This year, the Season of Advent begins with the month’s start. Today is the first Sunday of Advent, and so begins our journey through the Scriptures as they lead us to meet the Baby at the manger.

Each day through the next 25 days, join our Church community here as we prepare our hearts for the coming of the birth of Jesus, and the drawing near of God to His favourite part of creation – us! Today’s reading gives us a glimpse into the very truth of who Jesus is.

Hebrews 1:4 (NIV) “The Son radiates God’s own glory and expresses the very character of God”.

I love an evening when the moon is so bright, you could almost drive along with your headlights off. I don’t suggest you do, but it’s tempting! Yet, we know that the moon creates no light itself. It has no source brightness other than the sun. It radiates the brightness of the burning star that warms our earth. It reflects the brightness of the object before it.

The writer of Hebrews tells us that Jesus radiates God’s own glory! There is no part of Jesus character that does not show us God’s character. Just as a mirror can’t reflect something that isn’t near it…Jesus showed us nothing that wasn’t of God during His time on earth with us. All that we read and learn from Him is of the Father, and is a true reflection of His Father.

As Jesus followers, our lives should radiate His life in us. People should notice a difference in us, because of The Son. Our co-workers, the clerk at the grocery store, our neighbours…well, you get the idea. And on days when we eclipse that with our attitude or behaviours, we are forgiven. But, how awesome would it be, if we apologized to the one we failed to show Jesus to?

Make it your prayer today that you would reflect the glory of God, through Jesus to those you encounter.

 

88 Great Daddy-Daughter Dates – Rob & Joanna Teigen

I’m always on the lookout for great parent resources. Conversation starters, activities and ways to have God-conversations are tools I love to provide. This book will be one 8 add to the list of recommendations.

Some of my best memories are ones that include my dad. Studies show that a woman’s self-confidence is directly related to how much she was supported by a significant, reliable male in her life. Yet today,  so many dads struggle with how to pour into their little girls’ lives Life is busy, and time together is a challenge to carve out.

Each date is a special experience, and set up with a list of things you’ll need, how to set the date up, and what to do and a scripture focus for the evening. Things like an indoor camping experience, bug collecting, reading together, etc…

I love the simplicity of these, and that while the authors target daddy-daughters, I don’t see why the experience wouldn’t work with sons, and/or the whole family. Throughout the book, are also included lists of helpful things: song suggestions, things girls need to hear from her dad, conversation starters, etc.

Rob even gives the perfect solution should the date not be going well, “…just drop everything and get some ice cream.” How can it go wrong with that as the escape clause?

A wonderful resource that will enrich any dad-daughter relationship and ultimately the whole family.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

 

One Dominion – Celebrating Canada

This offering from the Bible League Canada is a collection of beautiful pictures from across this great country of ours, and short pieces of historical facts that remind the reader of just how deeply connected to faith the founding and shaping of Canada was.

Fittingly produced for the Sesqui-centennial of the founding of the Dominion, I throughly enjoyed this book.  I have always known that the faith of the Founding Fathers, and influencers was instrumental in shaping the core values of our Nation, but it was fascinating to see just how much.

I did not know the story of how the passage from Psalm 72 was chosen as the basis for the naming of the Dominion of Canada.  Nor did I know that what became Sick Kids Hospital was founded by a strong and visionary woman of faith.  Even our education and health care systems came about by the deep caring of Pastor’s hearts.

The photographs used throughout the book highlight what a beautiful and diverse country we call home.  My one disappointment is that nowhere was there any indication of the locations shared here.  While I recognized many locales, there are others I would love to visit and enjoy.

I think there are many in our leadership today who would be surprised at the very things they are seeking to remove God and Scriptural foundations from – are the important systems we have because people of faith carried out the call God placed on their lives to see them into existence.

I can’t wait for my next visit to Ottawa, and to take an opportunity  to see the Scripture passages that are engraved in stone – quite literally – on our House of Commons.  A great reminder to continue to pray that these will once again become reminders that all we have in Canada is from God’s gracious hand.

Thank you to Graf-Martin Communications and Bible League Canada for giving me the opportunity to independently review this book.

 

Invitation – Harbingers, Cycle One

I was completely intrigued when I learned about a new book by 4 of my favourite authors – Bill Myers, Frank Peretti, Angela Hunt and Alton Gansky.  A collaboration by the 4 of them could only be a good thing.

Each of the 4 central characters have their own story to contribute to the larger novel.  Each of their accounts is voiced by a different author, yet each has beautifully interwined all of the experiences so that it becomes a seamless novel.  At times, I forgot that I wasn’t reading one continuous writing.

The four strangers who come to realize they are a reluctant team : Brenda, a tattoo artist; the professor, and unbelieving ex-priest; Andi, the professor’s pattern-seeing assistant and Tank, an injured football player with a very special gift, begin to see disturbing and very dark happenings.

After meeting at the Institute for Advanced Psychic Studies, where they rescue a boy who seems to have a spiritual understanding of everything that is to come. Together they experience a house that holds dark secrets, discover gruesome deaths of masses of animals all over the world, meet and care for a little girl with a strange affliction.

Weaving suspense and gripping action with can only be describe as some form of spiritual warfare – it makes for quite a ride.  While it was an emotionally hard read for me, it was a book hard to put down.  And may I add – so refreshing to read a book that doesn’t have a “tied up with a bow” ending.  It was good to have the hard reality of what is to come in the next volume sit and demand to be wrestled with.  It certainly was an excellent reminder to do a gut-check on the health of my prayer life!

I would highly recommend this to those who enjoy fantasy, suspense and mystery writings.

Thanks to Graf-Martin Communications and Bethany House for the opportunity to independently review this book.

 

 

The Chapel Car Bride by Judith Miller – A Review

It seems fitting that for the first long weekend of the summer – I would finish reading a light, but engaging historical fiction book.   Judith Miller has created an opportunity for the reader to enter into a mining town in West  Virginia in 1913.

As I was reading, I did some research into the Chapel Car program and finding the actual car that Judith has based the book on added to the authenticity of the story line.  As Hope Irvine and her dad set up services in Finch, WV – with the hopes of establishing a significant congregation that will result in a permanent church plant – they encounter a community on edge.

The miners are feeling undervalued by the mine’s owner, who sends his son into town to thwart the talk of a union forming.  When he arrives, he simply wants to find ways to make easy money, and has no real interest in the people who work for the family business.

Hope and one of the miners, Luke Hughes,  strike up a plan to begin to help bring the conditions of the homes up to a livable, safe standard.  He and his sister become an important part of Hope and her father’s lives, and Luke begins to follow a call on his life.

Historical fiction – especially romance – is certainly not my genre of choice, but I enjoyed this book.  It was a great escape, and was refreshingly good a being intentional regarding faith issues.  I would recommend this book as for teen girls, ladies who want to read something that can be read as they catch a few minutes of quite time, and to those who enjoy Christian Historical Fiction.

Thank you to Graf-Martin Communications and Bethany House in providing the book that allowed me to complete this independent review.