Literary Time Out

Giveaway: Habits of a Peacemaker by Steven T. Collis

2024-10-21T15:33:00.002-06:00

We have teamed up with Shadow Mountain and Steven Collis to give away one copy of this amazing book. For a chance to win, simply comment on this post with one thing that you do to try and be a peacemaker. For extra entries, follow @shadowmountainpub and @steventcollis on Instagram, then come back here and post that you followed them.

Giveaway closes at 11:59 on Wednesday, October 23rd. Winner will be chosen at random and will be contacted on Thursday, October 24th. Must be 18 or older and live within the continental United States.

Book Review: Habits of a Peacemaker by Steven T. Collis

2024-10-11T13:54:00.002-06:00

Book Description:

Learn the practical skills that can help you build bridges, heal relationships, and engage in productive conversation about even the hardest topics.

Most people have experienced the slippery slope of dialogue that descends into -polarized argument. We yell at each other. We gaslight. We twist one -another’s words and meanings. We embrace facts that support our conclusions and ignore those that don’t. Or we sit in silence, afraid to discuss anything of substance. If how you treat others matters to you, this book offers powerful new habits that can give you the confidence to engage in dialogue about hard topics while building and strengthening relationships.

Imagine turning what could be a contentious conversation with a family member, a friend, or a coworker into a fruitful exchange that enlightens everyone’s minds and inches both of you toward a solution. Steven T. Collis, one of the world’s leading experts on civil -discourse, reveals ten practical habits that can help you navigate the potential minefields of hard topics and leave you and those you converse with feeling thoughtful and productive.

Whether you’re motivated by a desire for more fruitful discussions about politics or simply bringing more peace to your home, Habits of a Peacemaker offers you the tools to engage in constructive and healthy dialogue.

Review:

Wow. This is a book that everyone should read. It was a little difficult to take at times, but that's only because the author showed me where I fall short in becoming a peacemaker. I recommended this book to my book club, and plan on recommending it to friends and family alike. If everyone followed these 10 habits, our world would be such a better place to live in. That might not be realistic (sadly) but if those who read this book put the habits into play, that can create a ripple effect in the world around us, and make our little piece of the world just that much better. I need to keep this book easily accessible so I can reference it often.

Title: Habits of a Peacemaker
Author: Steven T. Collis

Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: September 2024 
ISBN: 1639932976
Source: I received a review copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

Purchase: Amazon Deseret Book

Book Review: So True a Love by Joanna Barker

2024-09-21T09:00:00.001-06:00

Book Description:

As the daughter of a renowned actress, Verity Travers is a privileged lady of high society —and the last woman one would suspect of working as a private investigator. But after one case nearly costs her everything, she makes the hard decision to hang up her hat and live the uninspiring life of a gentlewoman. However, when she and her dearest friend become victims of a harrowing armed robbery, Verity finds herself swept back into the clandestine world of mystery and crime as she seeks to bring the thief to justice. There’s just one complication: the persistent and dashingly handsome Bow Street Runner Nathaniel Denning, who always seems to cross her path.

Verity is confident she could accomplish her work quickly if only Nathaniel would stay out of her way. While she appreciates his keen mind and quick wit on a case, his interference is muddling her progress—and her heart. Focusing on the task at hand becomes more and more difficult as she constantly bumps into Nathaniel, who is determined to keep her out of danger.

When the two rival investigators learn they are both pursuing the same cunning criminal, they must figure out how to navigate the delicate dance of cooperation amid a backdrop of increasing peril and an irresistible passion that sets their hearts ablaze.

Review:

It's been awhile since I read A Heart Worth Stealing, but I enjoyed how Ginny and Jack played a part in this book. It made me want to go back and re-read their story. But Verity and Nathaniel were quite the handful all on their own. I got a kick out of how often Verity managed to find herself right in the middle of all sorts of challenges. And how she was usually not very sorry about it.

Their chemistry just worked, and the author did a wonderful job bringing both major and minor characters to life.

Title: So True a Love
Author: Joanna Barker

Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: September 2024 
ISBN: 1639932941
Source: I received a review copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

Purchase: Amazon Deseret Book

Book Review: Lady Flyer by Heather B. Moore

2024-09-03T09:00:00.002-06:00

Book Description:

Based on a true story and set against the backdrop of WWII, a young woman’s love of flying becomes an epic fight for identity and equality.

In the quiet town of Houghton, Michigan, sixteen-year-old Nancy Harkness discovers a passion that ignites her heart in ways she never expected. The arrival of barnstormer pilots brings more than just the thrill of their daring stunts; it brings the promise of adventure. Nancy vows she will be a pilot someday.

Years later, as the dark clouds of World War II gather on the horizon, Nancy’s dreams take a new and daring turn. With unwavering determination, she envisions a squadron of female pilots. Yet, her path is far from clear. The male-dominated world of aviation pushes back, determined to keep women out of the skies.

But Nancy isn’t alone in her quest for equality. Jackie Cochran, a formidable aviatrix and Nancy’s rival, has her own dreams and ambitions for women in aviation. As they both navigate the turbulent skies of a nation at war, their destinies intertwine in a story of rivalry, respect, and competition.

Review:

I enjoy reading history, especially WWII. I just find it fascinating. I jumped at the chance to read Lady Flyer, because the description captured my interest, plus I have really enjoyed the author's other books. This is not a fast-paced novel, filled with action and adventure. It is the story of one woman (and really, many other players) who fought for equal treatment of women pilots in the WWII era. It shouldn't, because I've read so many other books about how women were treated and viewed in the "olden days," but it still boggles my mind that they were treated as poorly as they were. Any time I read books like this, I realize how blessed I am to be living in a time when I am considered an equal. I am equally in awe at women like Mrs. Love who put everything on the line to fight for that equality, and kept on fighting, even when things didn't go the right way.

Title: Lady Flyer
Author: Heather B. Moore

Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: September 2024 
ISBN: 163993295X
Source: I received a review copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

Purchase: Amazon Deseret Book

Book Review: Fun Fact: I Love You by Gina Larsen

2024-07-05T09:00:00.001-06:00

Book Description:

In this friends-to-lovers romance, high school senior Nellie has her future all planned out—except for a disastrous first kiss, a hurtful prank, and the unexpected twist of falling in love with her childhood friend.

Fun fact: Nellie Samsin has ten days left of high school, and she’s never been kissed—which is fine with her. She’s been more focused on editing the yearbook and being named valedictorian than worrying about a boyfriend. But when she has a chance to kiss her longtime crush, she hopes it will be a magical experience. Until she learns it was all a lie, a hurtful prank orchestrated by her so-called best friend, leaving Nellie heartbroken and angry with everyone involved.

Jensen Nichols has spent his senior year keeping three massive secrets: first, he’s been writing a best-selling romance fantasy series under the pseudonym “Jen Dimes”; second, he’s been harboring a secret crush on Nellie, to the point where he’s based his fictional romantic heroine on her; and third, Nellie’s dad has been his writing mentor and coach. Jensen has promised himself that he’ll reveal his secrets—but only when the time is right. Then he sees Nellie kissing his best friend, and his unexpected rush of jealousy means that the time for keeping secrets is running out.

When a family tragedy rocks Nellie’s world, the future she meticulously planned for is threatened. And when she learns the people she thought were her friends have lied to her, she feels lost and betrayed. At least she has Jensen, who is the one person she knows for a fact she can trust. But the more time the two of them spend together, the more Nellie suspects Jensen is hiding something from her. (Fun fact: Keeping secrets is the worst.)

It seems Nellie and Jensen are perfect for each other, but they will need to separate fact from fiction in order to see if their unplanned romance can last beyond graduation day.

Review:

What did I do yesterday, you ask? I read this book. Pretty much the entire thing, except for the few chapters that I read the night before. I only took breaks when I had to go take or pick up children from one activity or the other. Some books, I really enjoy, but I'm just fine taking several days or even a week to read. This one, I found that I just didn't want to put it down, and since I didn't have any pressing things going on (other than housework, but no worries, that's certainly not going anywhere!) I had no issue with parking myself on my couch all day until I had finished the book.

It has been many, many years since I was in high school, and I think I'm at the age now where sometimes, reading about characters in high school is kind of annoying. I think I'm well on my way to becoming that curmudgeonly old person that yells at kids to stay off their lawn. If I ever get a lawn, that is. At any rate, I was a bit hesitant to start this book, simply because of the high school thing. I needn't have worried. The characters were well-thought out, and perfect for this story. There was a lot of teenage angst in this, but instead of becoming annoying, it was perfect for the story.

This is an easy, quick read, but it still deals with some pretty serious, heartbreaking issues.

Title: Fun Fact: I Love You
Author: Gina Larsen

Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: July 2024 
ISBN: 1639932453
Source: I received a review copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

Purchase: Amazon Deseret Book

Book Review: A Kingdom to Claim by Sian Ann Bessey

2024-07-02T09:00:00.002-06:00

Book Description:

Aisley lost everything in a Viking attack. Now, working alongside the one man she trusts, she is ready to fight for her people—and for love.

Wessex, AD 878

Aisley’s young life was changed forever when her father accompanied King Alfred into battle and lost his life in a deadly skirmish with the Vikings. Now, almost seven years later, the Vikings are once again rallying on Wessex’s borders, and Aisley fears that her older brother may have treacherous plans to betray the king by aligning himself with the invading Norsemen. But when Aisley encounters a handsome nobleman in the market, she feels the first stirrings of hope. Though they met only once when Aisley was little more than a child, she recognizes him immediately as one of King Alfred’s most trusted men.

It has been years since Brecc has seen Aisley, but when he spots her in the marketplace, he finds himself inexplicably drawn to the copper-haired young lady with a gift for healing. Before his fledgling feelings for her can develop into something more, however, a Viking attack tears them apart. King Alfred is forced into hiding, and in a matter of days, the Saxon nation is brought to its knees. Unwilling to forsake their people, the king and his men embark on secret raids of Viking encampments. But when Aisley joins the fight, Brecc must reconcile his steadfast loyalty to King Alfred with his growing love for the king’s newest warrior.

Review:

I loved this story! This author always does a great job of taking me to a time and place that I'm not familiar with at all, and bringing it to life for me. Back when I homeschooled my twins, we had a history game that we would play, and one of the people in the game was King Alfred the Great, so I was familiar with him, but other than remembering his name, I didn't remember what made him so great. Thanks to this story, now I know at least part of the reason. (Side note: I always love when authors of historical fiction add an author's note at the end with more historical background.)

Aisley and Brecc were great, strong characters, especially given all of the trials that they had to go through. I also would not be sad if Rheged got his own story sometime down the line...

This book is definitely a keeper.

Title: A Kingdom To Claim
Author: Sian Ann Bessey

Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: July 2024 
ISBN: 163993247X
Source: I received a review copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

Purchase: Amazon Deseret Book

Book Review: To Love the Brooding Baron by Jentry Flint

2024-06-08T09:00:00.001-06:00

Book Description:

Opposites attract and sparks fly when the vivacious Arabella falls for a baron who lives under the shadow of a scandalous family secret.

1815, London

Arabella Latham is a free spirit who longs to feel the spark of true love, but few men can match her passion for Shakespeare or her zest for life. Though her prospects seem slim, Arabella knows she can always count on the handsome but stoic Lord Henry Northcott, dubbed "The Brooding Baron" by the ton, to be willing to engage in intelligent conversation and even share a congenial dance with her at almost every ball. His quiet demeanor is the opposite of her vivacious personality, and she finds herself drawn to him, despite their differences.

Lord Northcott has quietly admired Arabella for years, grateful that his friendship with her brother has allowed him to share in her company and even begin to secretly imagine a life together with her. But he knows he cannot pursue a romantic relationship with any woman--let alone someone as bright and beautiful as Arabella--because of the shadow that an old family scandal has cast over his life. He has vowed to preserve what is left of his family's reputation by holding himself above reproach apart from society and focusing the majority of his efforts at Parliament.

But Arabella is determined to show Lord Northcott that life is meant to be enjoyed, and she sets out to see what is behind the walls the Brooding Baron has built around himself. Could the spark of true love be enough to drive away the shadows holding Henry back?

Review:

I had a hard time putting this book down, and finished it in just a few days. Even though it did have some Shakespeare in it, it was done in such a way that didn't bog the story down - in fact, and I'm amazed that I'm saying this, based on my opinion of the Bard, it even enhanced the story line. I've been reading a lot of nonfiction, war-based books lately, and sometimes it's just nice to lose myself in a story that doesn't hurt my heart.

I enjoyed watching the growth of both Arabella and Lord Northcott, especially when it came to Northcott's issues. It's always nice to have people you can trust in your corner, and Northcott not only had Arabella, but he had Mr. Bradbury as well. Can he get his own story next? He was hilarious, and most definitely needs his own story.

Definitely a story I recommend.

Title: To Love the Brooding Baron
Author: Jentry Flint

Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: June 2024 
ISBN: 1639932399
Source: I received a review copy from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.

Purchase: Amazon Deseret Book

Book Review: Beneath a Crescent Shadow by A.L. Sowards

2024-06-04T09:00:00.002-06:00

Book Description:

After an arranged marriage, Konstantin and Suzana must find a way to meet the demands of a conquering Ottoman sultan amid a torrent of setbacks and dangers much closer to their Balkan home.

The Balkans, 1373

A devastating battle claimed the lives of Konstantin's father, uncle, and most of their Serb army, leaving him to rule as a vassal of the Ottoman sultan, a role he is wholly unprepared for. Between war, famine, and a persistent band of brigands, Konstantin is nearly bankrupt. He will need to find a wealthy bride to marry if he is to have any hope of saving his lands and securing his future.

A betrothal to Suzana, the daughter of a prosperous merchant, is soon arranged, and upon meeting her, Konstantin immediately feels hope that their marriage could someday grow into love. Yet, from the moment of Konstantin and Suzana's betrothal, enemies threaten their lives, outlaws prey on their lands, and the terrors of Suzana's abusive past haunt their fragile new relationship. As this onslaught of threats closes in, the two face challenges that will test their love, their faith, and their hope to save their people and win their freedom from the heavy weight of Ottoman oppression.

Review:

What a great story! I have loved all of the author's previous books, and this one was no different. I wasn't at all familiar with this time period or the history between the Serbs and the Ottoman Empire - other than that I've heard of the Ottoman Empire, of course.

Anyway, I always love reading historical fiction, because history is fascinating, but it can be a bit dry at times (side note: I hated history class in high school, because it was so boring. I'm betting if this author taught my history class, I would not have felt that way.) Not only was the history fascinating, but the characters were well fleshed-out, and I felt like I knew each and every one of them. In some novels where there are several different characters, I sometimes find it hard to keep track of who is who, but that wasn't a problem in this book.

I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series. This one was definitely a page-turner!

Title: Beneath a Crescent Shadow
Author: A.L. Sowards

Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: June 2024 
ISBN: 1639932461
Source: I received a review copy from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.

Purchase: Amazon Deseret Book

Book Review: An Ocean of Courgae and Fear by Jerry Borrowman

2024-05-10T09:00:00.001-06:00

Book Description:

Based on survivor accounts, this gripping novel opens days after the attack on Pearl Harbor and details three years of sea battles that spanned between Hawaii and the shores of Okinawa with the crew of one of the most decorated ships of the Pacific War.

Onboard the heavy cruiser USS Salt Lake City, Lieutenant Commander Justin Collier was 230 miles west of Pearl Harbor accompanying the USS Enterprise on a secret mission when Japan attacked the United States. Upon his return to Honolulu, the gravity of the war begins to change him, as does every subsequent mission, including a rare beach landing with an Army infantry division. He fears his wounds of war, both physical and mental, will be incurable.

Meanwhile, on the day of the attack on Pearl Harbor, hundreds of wounded men lay scattered in cots and stretchers in and around the naval hospital, and volunteer nurse Heidi Collier feels overwhelmed by the number of casualties. She had watched the bombing by Japanese planes as she huddled with her two children in front of their home, hoping that her husband aboard the USS Salt Lake City was safe wherever he was. In her prayers, she feels he is still alive.

Lieutenant Riley Bracken feels the sudden g-force of his catapult-launched observation floatplane with each harrowing mission. Alerting the USS Salt Lake City of enemy ships gives him purpose, which is why no one can know about his recent bouts of vertigo. He can't risk losing what he loves most.

Fifteen-year-old Al Jowdy lied about his age in order to join the Navy. Whatever he believed Navy life would be was shot out of the water—twice—when his ships were torpedoed. Now aboard the Salt Lake City, he fears his luck may have run out.

An Ocean of Courage and Fear reveals the harrowing, never-before-told events that surrounded the crew of the USS Salt Lake City as they endure all the major action in the Pacific War.

Review:

This is a fictional book, based on true events. I typically enjoy stories like this, so I jumped at the chance to read this book. While I did enjoy the story, in several places, the author has whatever character is speaking give basically a textbook explanation for something instead of a normal conversation. If I were reading a non-fiction book, that would fit in perfectly, but it would take me out of the story each time he did it. The information was interesting, but I think it could have been presented in more of a story-telling way to make it flow with the novel better.
Other than that, I enjoyed the story, and enjoyed learning about what the USS Salt Lake City took part in during the war.

Title: An Ocean of Courage and Fear
Author: Jerry Borrowman

Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: May 2024 
ISBN: 1639932364
Source: I received a review copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

Purchase: Amazon Deseret Book

Book Review: Highcliffe House by Megan Walker

2024-05-08T09:00:00.001-06:00

Book Description:

1813, Brighton, England

When Anna Lane offered her heart to Alexander Lennox, she did not expect to learn he had secretly promised his suit to another. Hurt and embarrassed, Anna begs her father to take her to the seaside where she can escape the gossip of the ton and recover, but her father insists they remain in London so he can attend to some business. Feeling the sting of rejection again, Anna longs for the day when she can dictate her own future and find a companion who will love her for who she is.

Born into modest circumstances, Graham's hard work and ability to spot a good investment has allowed him to provide for his mother and younger sisters. Now, with a new opportunity in his sights, Graham approaches Mr. Lane, his business partner and mentor, hoping to persuade him to travel to Brighton to close the deal. Graham must act fast or else he might lose his chance to turn his meager earnings into permanent financial stability.

To Graham's relief, Mr. Lane is interested in his proposal, but he counters with one of his own. He has business elsewhere, so Anna--whom he trusts with his business affairs--will accompany Graham to Brighton, and if she gives a good report, he will invest. Both Anna and Graham hesitate. Though they have a passing acquaintance through Anna's father, the two have never truly got along. Anna feels that Graham is only interested in money, while Graham feels that Anna is stubborn and self-absorbed.

The two reluctantly travel to Brighton together, and Anna is determined to find fault with every inch of the seaside town--including Graham. She is tired of feeling like a pawn being moved about by other people's desires. But while staying at Highcliffe House and seeing the kind and gentle way Graham treats his family, Anna wonders if there is more to her rival than she thought.

But it will take more than a day at the beach for these two headstrong hearts to admit that if they set aside their misconceptions about each other and be vulnerable enough to share their true selves, they might have a chance at real love.

Rorie's Review:

This is an enjoyable, fast read, with one of my favorite tropes - enemies to lovers. I felt for both Anna and Graham as they were both very much misunderstood by the other, causing most of the negative feelings they held towards one another. As is typical in these types of books, there was miscommunication, but it wasn't so blatant and easily avoided that it drove me nuts, which I really appreciated.

The story flowed well, and the author did a great job bringing each of the characters to life. Tabs was an absolute hoot. I highly recommend this book.

Title: Highcliffe House
Author: Megan Walker

Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: May 2024 
ISBN: 1639932445
Source: I received a review copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

Purchase: Amazon Deseret Book

Book Review: Millie by McCall Hoyle

2024-04-12T13:01:00.006-06:00

Book Description:

Millie is a feisty border terrier who lives on the streets and has a keen sense for finding scraps of food, usually in the shadows or the cover of darkness. She protects herself with a shield of what is perceived by many as aggression—barking and snarling—when in reality, Millie is just plain scared.

Turned over to animal control after a recent run-in with the dogcatcher, Millie is rescued by a special education teacher who also rehabilitates and rehomes dogs. It’s a win-win. Together, the dogs and her students learn emotional resilience, anger management, and other coping skills.

When one of the students, a struggling reader named Tori, shows a natural gift for dog training and working with fearful dogs, Millie is temporarily placed in her care. Tori may be young, but she knows a thing or two about anger, fear, and abandonment after her mother could no longer care for her and she was placed in kinship care with her grandfather. Millie wonders if she’s finally found her person and begins to let down her emotional guard. But when trust and belonging are challenged, Millie reverts to old habits—fleeing, hiding, and growling. Will she end up back on the streets? Or can Millie and Tori embrace their training, trust in each other, and find a forever home together?

Mille is an empathy-building novel for young readers who love dogs and is a tender portrayal of the importance of emotional safety and what it means to truly belong.

Review:

This is a very cute story told from a street dog's point of view. I used to not be a dog person (that's putting it mildly), but a couple of years ago I caved and got a dog for my teens who were struggling. When you take care of something it is very hard to not love it, especially when it loves you so much. Anyway, I can really see this story appealing to those who have or want a dog, but honestly it's just so well-written that anyone could enjoy it. It has a great message about facing fears and not running away from things that scare us (obviously there are times and places for that, but until we give some things a try we are pushing away people and situations that may be good for us). I liked how the human characters weren't perfect either-they had plenty of struggles and learned and grew throughout the story, along with Millie and a few other dogs. A great story for young and old alike.

Title: Millie
Author: McCall Hoyle
Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: March 2024
ISBN: 163993233X
Source: I received a review copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book

Book Review: The Orchids of Ashthorne Hall by Rebecca Anderson

2024-04-10T09:00:00.000-06:00

Book Description:

A ghostly estate. A handsome caretaker hiding a secret. And the intrepid Hyacinth Bell who is set on solving the mystery of both.

1887, the Cornwall coast

For years, rumors have flown through the village of Suttonsbury about Ashthorne Hall--that its occupants hoard pirate treasure, that a ghost walks its halls--but botanist Hyacinth Bell only cares about the estate's extensive, one-of-a-kind orchid collection. As an independent woman, she is eager to focus on her career, even if it means waiting to pursue a romantic relationship. After all, love--like an orchid--must be nurtured and tended before it can bloom.

What she doesn't expect is to be swept away by Lucas Harding, the manor's caretaker, upon their first meeting. He is handsome and charming, and the connection between the two is nearly instantaneous. Hyacinth is certain this autumn will be the season that everything good in her life takes root.

But then strange things start happening in the seemingly empty halls of the estate: unexplainable noises, items appearing then disappearing from her room, threatening messages, and glimpses of a woman in white who vanishes into the dark. Lucas dismisses Hyacinth's worries, insisting that there is no ghost at Ashthorne Hall, but she suspects he is withholding information and decides to investigate the mystery herself.

Armed with little more than her instincts and her courage, Hyacinth must venture deep into the shadows of Ashthorne Hall to uncover the truth Lucas is keeping secret before she herself falls victim to the dangers hidden in the estate.

Rorie's Review:

This was an enjoyable, quick read. I'm generally not a fan of insta-love romances, and that kind of bugged me a bit in this book, but other than that, it was a good story. I figured out a bit of the mystery before it was revealed, but not so much that I wasn't intrigued to find out why things were the way they were. I appreciated the author giving a bit of history in the acknowledgement section - I always enjoy reading more historical facts that help bring the story to life even more. The author did a great job of bringing the characters to life, and I found myself unwilling to put the book down.

Title: The Orchids of Ashthorne Hall
Author: Rebecca Anderson

Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: April 2024 
ISBN: 1639932356
Source: We received review copies from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own.

Purchase: Amazon Deseret Book

Book Review: A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice by Rebecca Connolly

2024-04-02T09:00:00.001-06:00

Book Description:

Based on the remarkable true story of the Carpathia--the only ship and her legendary captain who answered the distress call of the sinking Titanic.

Just after midnight on April 15, 1912, the passenger steamship Carpathia receives a distress signal from the largest passenger liner ever built, RMS Titanic, which is on its maiden voyage from Southampton, England, to New York.

Captain Arthur Rostron is awakened to an enormous maritime emergency with little information to guide his actions in answering the call for help. Is the dire threat to the unsinkable Titanic accurate? His ship is more than four hours away; will Carpathia hold together if pushed to never-before-tested speeds? What if his ship also strikes an iceberg? How many of Titanic's 2,200 passengers will the Carpathia be able to accommodate? And with the freezing temperatures, will there be any survivors by the time the Carpathia arrives?

Kate Connolly is excited to join her sister in America and proud to be traveling on the grand Titanic, which was built in her Irish homeland. As a passenger in third-class accommodations, she is among the last to receive instruction and help after Titanic hits an iceberg. Among the chaos of abandoning ship, the chances of her securing a spot in a lifeboat appear grim. With the help of several men, also from Ireland, Kate finally reaches the upper decks and feels lucky to board Lifeboat 13, although no one knows if or when a rescue ship will come. She fears the icy water and wonders if they'll all freeze to death. After seeing their magnificent ship submerge into the abyss, and hearing the cries of hundreds of fellow passengers drowning, it is almost too much to bear and Kate fleetingly thinks succumbing to her ordeal is the easiest escape.

Told in alternating chapters from the perspective of Captain Rostron on the Carpathia and Kate Connolly on the Titanic, this historical novel is a compelling, heart-pounding account of two eyewitnesses to an epic disaster. Rostron's heroic and compassionate leadership, his methodical preparations for rescue, and his grit and determination to act honorably and selflessly to save lives and care for the survivors, sets the course for this awe-inspiring story.

Review:

I'll be honest, most of what I know about the Titanic sinking came from the Titanic movie from several years ago. Which is probably not all that historically accurate, but there you go. I had heard of the Carpathia before, but didn't know much about it's significance, other than it had something to do with the Titanic. Since I've become much more of a history buff than I ever used to be, I was excited to read this book and find out more about the only ship that came to the rescue. (Something that still completely boggles my mind, and I really want to learn more about why that happened.)

The author does an amazing job at putting the reader right there in all the action. The chapters go back and forth from Rostron, the captain of the Carpathia, and Kate Connolly, one of the survivors of the Titanic. Both points of view are very well written, and I could feel the anxiety, the heartache, the fear, all of it, while I was reading.

If you are interested in history, or even just looking for a good story to read, this is one that I highly recommend.

Title: A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice
Author: Rebecca Connolly

Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: April 2024 
ISBN: 1639932488
Source: I received a review copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

Purchase: Amazon Deseret Book

Book Review: Sacred Days, Sacred Songs by Michael D. Young

2024-03-22T09:00:00.002-06:00

Book Description:

Celebrate Easter with a joyful, soulful, and inspiring collection of songs about the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Most people don't often associate Easter with music, but author Michael D. Young has collected a variety of inspirational hymns and songs--some solemn, some jubilant--and his commentary on their meaning can enhance our holiday experience.

Each chapter focuses on the rich history of two songs that relate to the events of Holy Week, including the Triumphal Entry, the Last Supper, the crucifixion, and the resurrection. The complete lyrics for each song are provided, along with fascinating facts and stories behind each one. Also included are relevant scripture passages that illuminate the themes and events that inspired the songs, as well as a daily devotional of a Christlike attribute: deliverance, compassion, grace, hope, love, sacrifice, obedience, and renewal.

Readers can also experience the beauty and power of the songs in an immersive way through the inclusion of QR codes that link to YouTube videos of a variety of choirs, including the famous Tabernacle Choir, singing the songs being discussed, including such favorites as "All Glory, Laud, and Honor," "Amazing Grace," "It Is Well with My Soul," and "Christ the Lord Is Risen Today" as well as lesser-known songs "The King of Love My Shepherd Is" and "Drop, Drop Slow Tears."

Whether you are a seasoned churchgoer or simply someone who loves music, this gift book can help provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the significance of Easter, as well as the role that music has played in honoring and celebrating that Holy Week.

Rorie's Review:

This is a short, easy-to-read book that gives the reader a few scriptures, a few hymns, and background information on each hymn to read during Holy Week. I was only familiar with a few of the songs he listed, and found the stories of the creation of each one interesting. I'm looking forward to listening to all of the different songs, as well as using this book next week while our family prepares for Easter.

Andrea's Review:

I love the cover of this book and was excited to have a resource to help me put more focus and study on the true meaning of Easter. I enjoyed learning the background to the hymns that are included. Most of the stories were new to me, but I had heard at least one of them before. Some of them are so heart wrenching. Probably half of the hymns were new to me. Though it's not always easy for me to sing along to unfamiliar hymns, I love the spirit and feeling that comes with hymns, and liked the idea of this book for a daily devotional. I liked the word that went with each day (Palm Sunday through Easter Sunday). This doesn't really explain what each day means (which I was hoping for), but if you already know it's a nice addition to a daily study during Holy Week.

Title: Sacred Days, Sacred Songs
Author: Michael D. Young

Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: March 2024 
ISBN: 1639932291
Source: We received review copies from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own.

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Book Review: Hidden Yellow Stars by Rebecca Connolly

2024-03-11T09:00:00.002-06:00

Book Description:

Based on the true story of two World War II heroines who risked everything to save Jewish children from the Gestapo by hiding them throughout Belgium.

Belgium, 1942

Young schoolteacher Andrée Geulen secretly defies the Nazis in Belgium, who are forcing Jews to wear a yellow Star of David. Andrée is not Jewish, but she feels a maternal connection to her students, who are living in constant fear, and decides to take action. No child should have to suffer under such persecution. But what can one woman do against an entire army?

Ida Sterno is a Jewish woman who works with the Committee for the Defense of Jews in Belgium, a clandestine resistance group tasked with hiding children from the Gestapo. She wants to recruit Andrée because her Aryan appearance can provide crucial security measures for their efforts. Andrée agrees to join and begins work immediately by adopting a code name: Claude Fournier.

Together, Andrée and Ida, and their undercover operatives, work around the clock to move Jewish children from their families and smuggle them to safety through the secret channels established by the resistance. As each child is hidden, Andrée commits to memory their true name and history. Someday, she vows, she will help reunite as many of these families as she can.

But with the Gestapo closing in and the traitorous Fat Jacques who has turned from ally to enemy and is threatening to identify and expose any Jew he meets, Andrée and Ida must work even harder against increasingly impossible odds to save as many children as possible and keep them safely hidden--even if it might cost them their own lives.

Rorie's Review:

I really enjoyed reading "Under the Cover of Mercy" by this author, so I was excited to get a chance to read this book. I was not disappointed. It does move a little slowly in parts, but that's because it's real life, and real life isn't 24/7 action. I love reading about people like Andree (sorry, I don't know how to do the accents on my desktop keyboard. Pretend one is where it should be.) and Ida who risk everything to help innocent people. I hope that I would be as brave and determined as they were. As always, I appreciate the afterword that lets the reader know what happened to several of the main characters after the story ended.

Andrea's Review:

I enjoy historical fiction and was so interested to learn about this story of the brave souls who put their lives on the line to help hide Jewish children during the Nazi occupation of Belgium. Growing up I learned about people like Anne Frank, but there are so many stories that are much less known. Andrée Geulen and Ida Sterno should be household names. It's amazing that their organization was able to hide so many children. There were many sad instances in the book, but I really appreciated the moments of hope and the goodness of those who either worked for the cause or who hosted the children. All took on a huge risk to their own safety, but pressed forward to try to do what was right. They looked at everyone as equals. This was a slow read for me, and at times I found myself skimming a bit, but on the whole it was an amazing story that is worth reading and sharing.

Title: Hidden Yellow Stars
Author: Rebecca Connolly

Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: March 2024 
ISBN: 1639932348
Source: We received review copies from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own.

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Book Review: An Inconvenient Letter by Julie Wright

2024-03-07T09:00:00.043-07:00

Book Description:

Complications arise when Marietta's secret love letters are accidentally found by the wrong man.

1828, the London countryside

For years, Marietta Stone has harbored a secret infatuation for the handsome Frederick Finch and has poured out her deepest feelings in a series of passionate love letters that she keeps in a locked drawer. But when Marietta's private letters are accidentally delivered to Frederick's house, she must retrieve them immediately before they fall into the wrong hands. If the letters were read by anyone else, the resulting scandal could jeopardize her reputation.

Gerard Hartwell has no time for infatuations, courtship, or even love. He must find a wife with a substantial inheritance if he wishes to save his late father's bankrupt estate. When he accidentally discovers Marietta's love letters at his cousin Frederick's estate, he strikes a bargain with her. If she helps him court her older sister, Anne, he will return the letters and help Marietta win Frederick's heart.

Marietta agrees, and the two quickly pretend to be courting in order to spend time with their individual love interests. Yet, what appeared to be a straightforward bargain becomes complicated when Gerard realizes that the more time he spends with Marietta, the more he wishes he could court her for real. But can he persuade Marietta to give him a chance when her heart might belong to another man?

Rorie's Review:

I think I have read all of this author's books, and have thoroughly enjoyed all of them. I always get excited when one of my favorite authors comes out with a new book, so I was excited to get the chance to read this one.

Marietta was quite the interesting character. I can slightly relate to the issue with her letter - when I was in high school, I dropped off birthday cards to two different guys that I liked, only I mixed them up and gave the wrong card to the wrong guy! More than a little embarrassing, to say the least, so I completely understood her mortification when her secret love letters fell into the "wrong" hands. Thankfully, the person who found her letters was a much better character than some of the other people Marietta had dealings with during the course of this story.

This was an entertaining tale, and I highly recommend it.

Andrea’s Review:

An Inconvenient Letter is a fun story with great characters. The author did a wonderful job crafting an entertaining story that kept me intrigued.

There was quite a bit of buildup to the explanation of what had happened during the prior season-more so than seemed warranted for what actually occurred, but that is probably the point. The Town was so critical and unforgiving for the littlest of things.

I felt really bad for how Marietta was treated by her mother. For being her father’s favorite, I was quite surprised that he didn’t step in when her mother was blaming Etta for so much and being so emotionally cruel. I really appreciated the growth in the relationships by the end.

The growth between the main characters was very well done. Their feelings seemed realistic and not rushed. Ha, maybe it was even a bit slower than I wanted at times for them to both realize their feelings.

This was a quick read and one I’d recommend.

Title: An Inconvenient Letter
Author: Julie Wright
Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: March 2024 
ISBN: 1639932305
Source: We received review copies from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own.

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Book Review: Protecting Her Heart by Nancy Campell Allen

2024-01-02T09:00:00.001-07:00

Book Description:

London, 1887

When newly graduated medical doctor Charlotte Duvall receives word that her father has died, she immediately leaves America and returns home to see to her family's estate. Among her father's possessions is a box of her late mother's letters, which feels like a balm to Charlotte's grief-stricken heart. But the letters contain some inconsistencies that suggest there was more to her mother's death than Charlotte had been told. She turns to the one man she trusts more than anyone--her treasured friend and director of London's police force, John Ellis.

John Ellis has harbored feelings for Charlotte ever since he first met her. Tucked into his heart are thoughts of her sharp mind, quick wit, and remarkable beauty. Though he has not yet found the courage to share his feelings with the young doctor, he is eager to help her in her hour of need.

Investigating the details of a death was not how Charlotte imagined she would find love, but as she and John work to unravel a dark web of secrets and lies, she finds herself relying on him more and more--and opening her heart to him in the process.

As the danger draws ever closer, John vows to do everything in his power to protect Charlotte from harm. But he fears protecting her heart might come at the cost of breaking his own.

Rorie's Review:

Such a great addition to the Hampton House series. I have enjoyed all of the stories, but this one is probably one of my favorites. Charlotte had such a good heart, but was still able to stand up for herself as needed. John had a not-so-great family, but he handled them as well as could be expected, given the time period.

The author does a great job at weaving the romance part of the story in with the mystery part of the story. Neither one feels overdone or rushed. I definitely recommend this book.

Title: Protecting Her Heart
Author: Nancy Campbell Allen
Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: January 2024 
ISBN: 1639931694
Source: I received a review copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

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Book Review: Windsong Manor by Julie Wright

2023-10-04T09:00:00.000-06:00

Book Description:

A young widow. A gentle stable master. A secret that could change everything. Will Nora dare risk her heart?

The London Countryside, 1820

Eleanora Coventry comes from a life of title and privilege, but even that isn’t enough to prevent her from being wed at sixteen to a controlling and dismissive husband. So when she finds herself a widow at only twenty-seven, the idea of choosing her own path forward both thrills and terrifies her. She knows how to be a daughter and a wife and mother, but she has no idea how to be Eleanora.

She moves her son and daughter to her late husband’s country estate, where she meets Ridley, the young stable master. He is ruggedly handsome, but also kind, and Eleanora finds herself drawn to him. There is only one problem: Eleanora has a title, and Ridley does not.

Ridley Ellis has a way with horses. Even the most spirited stallions trust his soft voice and gentle touch. He has the same effect on people, and when he first lays eyes on Eleanora, he is smitten by her beauty. But he quickly discovers it will take more than soft words to gain her trust―Lord Coventry had been cruel to people and animals alike. But the closer he gets to Eleanora, the more he is willing to share his heart, and more importantly, his secret.

In a world where title and privilege mean everything, will Eleanora and Ridley risk it all to find happiness? Or will the shadows of their pasts destroy everything they hope to build together?

Review:

Ooo, I loved this book! Definitely one of those that was so very hard to put down, but at the same time, I didn't want to finish it, because that would mean the story was over.

Eleanora is such a strong, wonderful character. She could easily have become bitter and angry at the world, due to the way she was treated just about her entire life, but instead, she became compassionate, caring, and fiercely protective of those she loves. I'll be honest, at times, I thought she should just give up on her Edward. With the way he treated her and Lia, it would have been easy to do so. Instead, she fought for him, and knew her loving little boy was still there, somewhere.

Ridley was also a wonderful character. I was cheering for both of them the whole way through the story. This is a great, clean romance, with plenty of other things going on to keep the story interesting. I highly recommend it.

Title: Windsong Manor
Author: Julie Wright
Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: October 2023 
ISBN: 1639931562
Source: I received a review copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

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Book Review: Kneaders Bakery & Cafe: A Celebration of Our Recipes and Memories by Colleen Worthington

2023-10-03T09:00:00.001-06:00

Book Description:

The story of Kneaders Bakery and Cafe began with Colleen and Gary Worthington baking traditional European bread in their kitchen. After mastering old-world bread-baking techniques and testing countless recipes, Colleen, Gary, and their growing team of bakers moved onto their signature artisan bread.

But bread is just the beginning. Kneaders is well-known for their mouth-watering soups, sandwiches, and breakfast as well as their delectable pies, cakes, and pastries. For the first time, home cooks have access to popular recipes such as Overnight Chunky Cinnamon French Toast, Artichoke Portobello Soup, and Blueberry Sour Cream Pie. Beautiful and appetizing photos accompany each recipe.

What began in Colleen Worthington’s kitchen a little more than twenty-five years ago has grown into a successful family-owned bakery and cafe business with time-tested, delicious recipes gathered in this one-of-a-kind cookbook.

Review:

What a beautiful cookbook! I tend to gravitate towards cookbooks that have full-color pictures of each recipe, so that I know what they should look like in a perfect world. Plus, it's just more appetizing to see what you're planning on making. This book did not disappoint. The food all looks so good! I went through and put a sticky note on all of the recipes that I would like to make...lets just say that there are a whole lot of sticky notes sticking out of the top of the book!

Breads, soups, salads, desserts. Pretty much any kind of recipe for a yummy meal can be found in this book. I also enjoyed the stories behind some of the recipes, and the introduction to the family and other people behind the scenes. This book is definitely a keeper.

Title: Kneaders Bakery & Cafe: A Celebration of Our Recipes and Memories
Author: Colleen Worthington
Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: October 2023 
ISBN: 1639931511
Source: I received a review copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

Purchase: Amazon Deseret Book

Book Review: The Queen and the Knave by Sarah M. Eden

2023-09-09T09:00:00.002-06:00

Book Description:

London, 1866

Móirín Donnelly has spent the last five years working in the shadows for the Dread Penny Society, but spending so much of her life in secret is taking a toll on her soul―and her heart.

When members of the Dread Penny Society begin disappearing, Móirín turns to Detective Constable Fitzgerald Parkington for help. The two have developed a friendly rapport, and Móirín feels like she can trust him, though perhaps not with all of her secrets.

Fitzgerald Parkington has a sixth sense when it comes to hunting down criminals, which is why he’s recently been transferred to the Detective Department at Scotland Yard. But when red tape keeps him from tracking down the criminal mastermind known as “The Tempest,” he must rely on the one woman who has unexpectedly captured his heart―the bold and fiery Irish lass, Móirín Donnelly.

As the Tempest’s deadly reach threatens to overwhelm all of London, Móirín and Fitz are caught in an elaborate game of cat and mouse that leads down back alleys, through dark London buildings, and right to the gates of Kensington Palace. Móirín has one chance to save Fitz and the Dread Penny Society from the Tempest, and she might have to sacrifice her one chance at love to do so.

Rorie's Review:

What a wonderful conclusion to the Dread Penny Society series! (I'm assuming it's the conclusion. The author can certainly continue on with these stories if she has more of them.) I remember my shock at the revelations we were given at the end of the last book in this series, and have been very much looking forward to reading this book to see how everything all played out. I was not disappointed. There was a lot going on, but not so much that it became difficult to keep track of what was happening. Plus, we get to see all of our past favorite characters from the other books, something I always enjoy with this author's stories.

As per usual, I also found myself getting caught up in the penny dreadful stories that were included in this book. The Queen and the Knave reminded me a lot of a movie that my mom really enjoyed back when I was a kid - something about one of the characters turning into a hawk during the day (or maybe it was the night. I'm old. Childhood was a long time ago for me!)

I highly recommend this book. I don't know how well it would work as a stand-alone, because I think you miss a lot if you haven't read the previous books in the series. But you won't regret reading all of them.

Andrea’s Review:

This was the best book in the series. It tied everything together nicely, and was very action packed. I didn’t want to put it down! Lots of questions were answered and some issues from the past were addressed so people could find their happily ever afters. A very good story with likable, selfless characters.

Title: The Queen and the Knave
Author: Sarah M. Eden
Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: September 2023 
ISBN: 163993152X
Source: We received review copies from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own.

Purchase: Amazon Deseret Book

Book Review: Under the Java Moon by Heather B. Moore

2023-09-07T09:00:00.002-06:00

Book Description:

Based on a true story, this gripping WWII novel captures the resilience, hope, and courage of a Dutch family who is separated during the war when the Japanese occupy the Dutch East Indies.

Java Island, 1941

Six-year-old Rita Vischer cowers in her family’s dug-out bomb shelter, listening to the sirens and waiting for a bomb to fall. Her charmed life on Java―living with other Dutch families―had always been peaceful, but when Holland declares war on Japan and the Japanese army invades Indonesia, Rita’s family is forced to relocate to a POW camp, and Rita must help care for her little brother, Georgie.

Mary Vischer is three months pregnant when she enters the Tjident women’s camp with thousands of other women and children. Her husband, George, is somewhere on the Java Sea with the Dutch Navy, so she must care alone for her young children, Rita and Georgie, and her frail mother. The brutal conditions of the overcrowded camp make starvation, malaria, and dysentery a grim reality. Mary must do everything she can to keep her family alive.

George Vischer survives the bombing of his minesweeper but feels little hope floating on a small dinghy in the Java Sea. Reaching the northern tip of the Thousand Island would be a miracle. Focusing on the love of his life, Mary, and his two children, he battles against the sea and merciless sun. He’ll do whatever it takes to close the divide between him and his family, even if it means risking being captured by the Japanese.

Under the Java Moon highlights a little-known part of WWII history and the impact of war on Indonesia, its people, and the more than 100,000 Dutch men, women, and children who were funneled into prison camps and faced with the ultimate fight for survival.

Rorie's Review:

When you read books about WWII, they typically focus on American, British, Japanese, and German people. This is the first time I've read a book about someone's experience in other countries. Having recently read "Unbroken," I expected to read about the brutality of the internment camps, and while it was indeed horrific, there seemed to be a bit more decency from some of the guards in Tjideng. 

Being an adult in an internment camp would have been horrible enough, but I can't even imagine being a child in a horrible place like that. Children are naturally curious, exuberant, and trusting. It's difficult to imagine the lifelong trials that child have come from living your formative years like that. 

At the same time, I was impressed by the resilience and determination that Mary and her children possessed. They took one day at a time, and constantly adapted as best as they could, in order to survive. 

If you are fascinated by history, this is a story you need to read.

Andrea’s Review:

This book was very eye opening. I was not familiar with the Japanese occupation of the Netherlands East Indies. What a horrific experience for the Dutch prisoners. I was grateful it didn’t seem to be as brutal as some other experiences I’ve read about, but being told from a child’s perspective may have made it seem more tame. It was noted the parents often took punishments for things the children did. 

This wasn’t a fast read for me, but I’m very grateful that Marie Vischer Elliott allowed her heartbreaking story to be told. It’s important to learn about the past to prevent these awful things from happening again.

Title: Under the Java Moon
Author: Heather B. Moore
Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: September 2023 
ISBN: 1639931538
Source: We received review copies from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own.

Purchase: Amazon Deseret Book

Book Review: Janitors School of Garbage by Tyler Whitesides

2023-09-05T08:00:00.014-06:00

Janitors School of Garbage by Tyler Whitesides

Book Description:

Ordinary trash becomes extraordinary at the magical school of garbage—a summer school for young garbologists.

Garbage has come to life as animated creatures called junklets and are wreaking havoc in elementary schools. Only the specially trained kids from the magical School of Garbage can stop the rise of the trash monsters. With the school’s magical janitorial supplies—brooms that can fly, toilet plungers that can reverse gravity, and mops that can capture anything in their strings—the ordinary becomes extraordinary.

Landon Murphy discovers the undercover janitorial world when his soon-to-be-stepsister, Jade Shu, guides him through a magical portal at the bottom of a dumpster that leads to a fantastical landfill and the home of the School of Garbage, where she has secretly been a student for the last few years.

Problems at home with his family make it hard for Landon to feel like he belongs anywhere, but he is quickly welcomed as a student at the intriguing school for wizard-like janitors. His class on the science of garbology is like being a crime-scene investigator, and every student gets to bond with one of three Servites—small, magical animals who exhale enchanted dust to help kids focus or be creative or have energy.

Landon and Jade—along with allies from the original series—are tasked to take out the trash and figure out who—or what—is behind the mysterious garbage attacks and stop them before the entire world is literally trashed.

Collin's Review:

As it has been many years since the last story in this series, I had forgotten much of what had happened in the series up to this point. However, as I read this excellent story, I quickly got back into the story. In this story, we get to know the next generation of young garbologists. The protagonist, Landon, and his "soon-to-be step-sister" Jade Shu have secretly joined the school of garbage, which is taught by some of the protagonists in the original series. Together they team up try to save the world from new garbage creatures out in the world attacking with garbage, called Junklets, as well as rogue Thingamajunks who are causing all sorts of havoc. This is a great story, and I learned a lot about the importance of teamwork. I highly recommend this book--especially to anyone who enjoyed the original series.

Rorie's Review:

I haven't read any of the Janitors series, but my kids all have, and loved them. I was a bit concerned that I might be lost, but thankfully this story does well as a stand- alone. I do think that reading the original series would be good though. 

Sometimes I have a hard time starting middle-grade fiction, but I'm not sure why, because I've rarely been disappointed when I do read that genre. This story grabbed my attention right away, and I took every opportunity I had to sit down and read. 

The characters were all well-written, and the story line was engaging. I think the idea of hanging out in garbage is brilliant, although extremely gross... which makes it perfect for the middle grade reader. I look forward to reading more from this author.

Title: Janitors School of Garbage
Author: Tyler Whitesides
Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: September 2023 
ISBN: 1639931686
Source: We received review copies from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own.

Purchase: Amazon Deseret Book

Blog Tour: Crown and Serpent by Heather Frost

2023-08-23T09:00:00.001-06:00

Book Description:

All she wanted . . .

Seventeen-year-old Iris Winn loves her quiet life with her father, studying the poisons that fascinate them both. But after his sudden death, Iris is now the ward of her estranged aunt and uncle. In order to claim her inheritance, she must live in the capital city of Lenzen for one year. While there, she must attend parties, balls, and participate in every other vapid thing the elite of Ryden value. Iris doesn’t care about learning their rules or joining their ranks–her only goal is to endure the next year. Then she meets Prince Henri Kaelin.

Everything they demanded . . .

Every young woman in Lenzen wants Henri–except for Iris. Unfortunately, the prince only has eyes for her. The king has decreed that Henri must choose a bride before his birthday, and Iris is determined it won’t be her. Dodging a prince’s focused attention while placating her relatives and the rest of Ryden’s high society is exhausting–and more dangerous than Iris could have ever imagined. She is about to learn that not all games are innocent, and some smiles are more lethal than poison. Luckily, Iris is a quick study, and this is a game she is determined to win.

She would take it all.

Excerpt:

Iris stood on the cushioned pedestal in the center of the dressmaker’s workspace, which was located in the back of the dress shop. Incense burned in the corner, smothering the room with the scent of roses and making Iris’s nose itch.

She’d been in Lenzen for a week now, and already it felt like an eternity. Her first dinner with Lady Griffin went as expected, and though her uncle gave her a sympathetic look, he said nothing as the haughty woman proceeded to pick Iris apart.

Since that night, Iris had had the misfortune of having tea with Lady Griffin, and she was at the dress shop with the woman now. Thank the fates Lady Griffin had wandered to the front of the shop to gossip with some other ladies who had entered. Anora had gone with her, leaving Iris alone with the seamstress.

Lillin had a music lesson, so they’d left her at home. Frankly, Iris was grateful for the break. Her cousin was always close and her smiles were so sharp they hurt to look at. Every night, Iris fell into bed utterly drained. She missed having time alone with her thoughts. She missed her home, and her father’s gardens, and his workroom. She missed Zev.

She missed her father.

Her heart clenched. She must have stiffened, because the seamstress shot her a concerned look. The woman was on her knees before Iris, pinning the hem of a dark blue gown. Something in the submissiveness of the pose reminded Iris of the way the servants at home had always deferred to her, even when she was a child.

She missed that quiet deference. No one at home had ever tried to control her. Her father had raised her with freedom, and she’d never realized what a gift that was. The man may have had his failings—especially when it came to his obsession for his wife—but he had raised Iris to be strong and independent. And, perhaps in some ways, his occasional distant manner had made her even stronger. She had always relied on herself and no other.

In the end, she supposed that was the point of parents; to create children strong enough to survive a harsh world. To set them on the path they were destined to walk, and arm them with the skills they needed to excel.

“Continue,” Iris told the seamstress, who still looked questioningly up at her.

The woman returned to her pinning without a word.

Iris looked beyond the woman, toward her aunt and Lady Griffin. They were too far away to make out their words, but she could hear their tone. They were jovial as they spoke to the other ladies. The only time Anora’s pleasant mask faltered was when she pointed out Iris. Curious eyes raked over Iris, assessing and calculative.

It wasn’t long before the women dismissed themselves and the group parted ways. While Anora and Lady Griffin moved to the corner to inspect more fabrics, the other three women drifted farther into the shop, which brought them closer to Iris.

Their heads were ducked toward each other and their voices were pitched low, but the furtive glances sent Iris’s way made it all too clear they were talking about her.

She strained her ears without looking at them, hoping they would come a little closer.

“. . . such a shame she took after her father. Her mother was so beautiful, and she had a vibrant personality.”

“You knew her mother?”

“Yes, we were childhood friends. But then she left Lenzen and never returned. Some have claimed Thelin Winn locked her up.”

“No!”

“I’ve heard the same,” a new voice chimed in. “I also heard Verity was a troubled child.”

“She had her moods, certainly,” the first woman said at once. “But she was always a good friend to me.”

“It’s a shame she died so young,” the second woman whispered. “She didn’t have time to raise her own child. And you heard Lady Griffin—the girl isn’t prepared for entering society. It wasn’t right of her father to keep her locked up in Rew, with no proper education, and no woman’s attention.”

Iris’s hands fisted at her sides. She wanted to say something—defend her father, and denounce any kind thing they tried to say about her mother—but she held her tongue. Better to listen and learn what sorts of people she would be living around for the next year, and know what they thought about her.

“It is a shame,” the first woman agreed. “Iris Winn won’t survive long in court. Not if she’s as bad off as Lady Griffin said.”

“She certainly looks severe, doesn’t she? I’ve never seen a young woman look so somber.”

“She did just bury her father,” the one with the deepest voice said. She hadn’t spoken as much, but Iris didn’t consider her any sort of ally.

“Of course,” the first woman was quick to acknowledge. “But that won’t give her an excuse at her first ball when she’s unable to dance properly.”

“If she’s even asked,” the second one snorted. “She’s nothing like the girls the young men here are used to. She’s . . . odd. I can see it at a glance, and the young men will, too.”

“Well, at least we can tell Lady Rine not to worry; her twins are of age, and when she heard Iris was coming to Lenzen, she feared none of the young men in court would look at her girls because of the novelty of someone new.”

“Oh yes, I don’t think Lady Rine—or anyone else—should worry on that score. Iris Winn won’t be stealing any eligible young man’s attention.”

Review:

Possible slight spoiler alert for this review, so just be aware...

I have to admit, when I started this book, I was kind of hesitant, because I really didn't want to feel bad for Iris, or find out that she is the way she is because of how she was treated as a child. She is completely psychotic, and I didn't want my feelings for her to change. 

Well, I'm happy to say that my feelings are still the same. She is still the same ruthless, evil person we love to hate. But I did enjoy getting to know her back story. 

And I was, in a little way, rooting for things to go her way. (In the beginning.) But that would have completely changed this entire series, and we can't have that, because this series is excellent!

So, if you love to hate Iris and Henri like I do, don't be afraid to read this book. It is just as captivating as all the other books in the series, and the author does a great job at bringing all of the characters to life, even the minor ones.

Giveaway:


To celebrate Crown
& Serpent coming out, Heather is giving away a signed
paperback of Royal Decoy +
collectible bookmarks and postcard!

Get all the details and enter here: https://www.instagram.com/heather.frost.author/

Tour Schedule:

https://www.heatherfrost.com/post/crown-serpent-media-tour-schedule

Title: Crown and Serpent
Author: Heather Frost
Publisher: Self Published
Published: August 2023 
ASIN: B0C4NM5J7K
Source: I received an e-copy from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.

Purchase: Here

Book Review: The Wild Journey of Juniper Berry by Chad Morris and Shelly Brown

2023-08-15T09:00:00.002-06:00

Book Description:

Juniper Berry knows how to handle bobcats, bears, and mountain lions, but can she survive the toughest predator of all―middle school?

Eleven-year-old Juniper Berry lives with her family deep in the wild woods. Living off the grid is pretty exciting, but her happy life in the wild ends abruptly when her younger brother gets sick, and they move to the city to be closer to the hospital. Juniper and her older sister end up living with cousins they hardly know and attending public school for the first time, which is harder to navigate than the wild woods ever were. Juniper feels like a wolf cub separated from her pack.

As the hospital bills for her brother start piling up, Juniper knows they’ll need to be paid before the family can go back to the woods, so she decides to make enough money to help out. With her cousin Alayna’s support, Juniper starts posting videos filled with her wisdom from the woods, hoping to get a following. But what if it doesn’t work? What if the bills never get paid? Not going home to the wild is Juniper’s worst nightmare. While she’s stuck in the city, she might as well make the most of it, like sticking up for Alayna, who’s being bullied by her supposed friends, for starters.

The Wild Journey of Juniper Berry is a story about perseverance when faced with difficult and unfamiliar challenge, belonging and finding your identity, compassion for others, and learning that our differences can sometimes be our strengths.

Rorie’s Review:

Looking at "typical" life through the eyes of someone who has never lived it before was fascinating. Imagine having never seen, much less used any of the modern conveniences that we take for granted, such as refrigerators and cell phones. Now imagine being suddenly thrown into this new life with these new things, and having everyone mock you for not understanding their way of life. 

That is Juniper Berry's life, and as can be expected, she doesn't adjust very well. She loved her life off the grid, and hates being in "society." She knows she's smart, and very capable, but every day someone makes her feel like she's less than, simply because she doesn't fit in. 

Juniper's journey to make peace with her new normal is captivating, heartbreaking, and heartwarming. A definite read for all ages.

Andrea’s Review:

This is a great story with a touching message. I would hope the kids (or adults) who read this would come away with a better understanding that people who are different from us have a lot to offer. We should be kind, helpful, and try to get to know people and understand them. 

Juniper Berry was an entertaining character. It was refreshing that she didn’t want to change to be like everyone else. I loved how she was willing to sacrifice to help her family.

Title: The Wild Journey of Juniper Berry
Author: Chad Morris & Shelly Brown
Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: August 2023
ISBN: 163993099X
Source: We received review copies from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own.

Amazon Deseret Book

Book Review: The Art of Love and Lies by Rebecca Anderson

2023-08-08T09:00:00.001-06:00

Book Description:

Manchester, England, 1857

Rosanna Hawkins is one of Manchester’s finest artists, even though no one knows her name. She reproduces “parlor versions” of classic masterpieces with near-perfect precision, which her employer then sells to the emerging upper-middle class families.

When the largest art exhibition ever to be held in England opens in Manchester, Rosanna is excited to visit. She meets the handsome Inspector Martin Harrison, who is head of security, and is immediately intrigued by his charm, confidence, and portrait-worthy good looks. The two spend many a flirtatious afternoon exploring the exhibition hall, discussing art, and sharing their secret hopes. Rosanna dreams of painting something original and meaningful, and Martin hopes to one day shed the shadow of his father’s notorious past.

But when they discover the theft of some of the paintings―and all the evidence points to Rosanna―she must convince Inspector Harrison she is innocent and proposes a plan to capture the real art thief.

It is a daring race to catch the criminal before he disappears with the most priceless piece in the collection―Michaelangelo’s The Manchester Madonna. If Rosanna and Inspector Harrison fail, not only will the painting be lost forever but so will their chance to paint their own happily ever after.

Rorie's Review:

While I know very little about art, and definitely don't have a talent for it at all (even my stick figures tend to look a bit deranged,) I enjoyed this story. I was able to put myself at the Art Treasures Exhibition, and walk around, viewing the different artwork - except, in my mind, it was nature/landscape scenes, since that's what I love looking at.

Aside from the art show part of the story, I enjoyed watching the relationship with Martin and Rosanna grow. I did feel it was a bit on the insta-love side, which did detract from their relationship a bit. Maybe that was necessary for the story to move on as it did though.

The catching of the criminal was written very well, and I think that may have been my favorite part of the story.

Andrea's Review:

It took me awhile to get into this story. There wasn’t much action initially, and I read a few chapters here and there when I had time. The pace and excitement picked up about half way through though, and I finished the rest in an afternoon.

Rosanna wasn’t your typical female in England in the mid-1800s. She was unusually independent for her station, but I appreciated her boldness. Although I don’t have artistic talent, the author’s descriptions brought Rosanna’s artwork to life in my mind.

Martin had daddy issues and strove to be the most upright person he could be because of those issues. I would have enjoyed a bit more backstory for Martin, but found him to be likable and a good fit for Rosanna.

Title: The Art of Love and Lies
Author: Rebecca Anderson
Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Published: August 2023
ISBN: 1639931082
Source: We received review copies from the publisher. All opinions expressed are our own.

Purchase: Amazon Deseret Book