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Rachel King (13 KP) rated The Centurion's Wife (Acts of Faith, #1) in Books
Feb 11, 2019
This book was a wonderful surprise in both its accuracy in utilizing the Biblical account, as well as its mastery in enlivening the recorded events pulled from the Bible by weaving in the fictional story of Leah. I have read these parts of the Bible more times than I can count, but this novel made the events fresh and exciting, as if I were living in the time period and watching them first hand. It made me realize as I read it how much I take for granted in having the completed Bible, which those first believers did not have. I could relate quite easily to some of the characters, especially the portrayal of Mary Magdalene. I also especially loved how the authors described the scene at Pentacost, as well as the allusions to the wedding in Revelation using Leah's wedding plans.
This book is the first book in the series Acts of Faith, which I like because not only are all the loose threads not accounted for, but also because I would love to see other Biblical characters portrayed by these authors, such as Paul. I look forward to continuing the series with the next book, The Hidden Flame.
This is how Christian fiction should be written, in my humble opinion. The beliefs and doubts of the characters are real and believable - even to the point of looking messy and contradictory. Their faith hasn't been softened and molded by political correctness, too afraid to quote more than a few fee-good verses from Psalms or even use the name of Jesus. A Christian is not a one-dimensional type-cast description, and neither should the characters in a Christian fiction novel be.
This book is the first book in the series Acts of Faith, which I like because not only are all the loose threads not accounted for, but also because I would love to see other Biblical characters portrayed by these authors, such as Paul. I look forward to continuing the series with the next book, The Hidden Flame.
This is how Christian fiction should be written, in my humble opinion. The beliefs and doubts of the characters are real and believable - even to the point of looking messy and contradictory. Their faith hasn't been softened and molded by political correctness, too afraid to quote more than a few fee-good verses from Psalms or even use the name of Jesus. A Christian is not a one-dimensional type-cast description, and neither should the characters in a Christian fiction novel be.
Merissa (11622 KP) rated Aftermath in Books
May 14, 2021 (Updated Jul 26, 2023)
AFTERMATH tells you the sad story of three friends attending a concert when a bomb goes off and only one of them survives. Move onto an unknown character getting stopped by police on an anonymous tip, only to find explosives in his car boot. Enter the lawyer, a child from his youth, determined to prove his innocence.
This was an interesting story, with strong characters who moved the story along. The pacing was very good, giving enough action and suspense whilst not overloading the reader. Unfortunately, I felt the big bad and the situation about the why's and whatnot's was a bit too predictable. Knowing this was set in America, and knowing how expensive healthcare is, it certainly did not come as a surprise, nor did his actions afterwards.
This is a Christian Fiction novel so be prepared for an emphasis on God, what is right and wrong, and the possibility of an afterlife.
On the whole, this was a good story that I enjoyed, but there wasn't anything that really surprised me. If you like Christian Fiction and Suspense, then I can definitely recommend this one.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 14, 2021
This was an interesting story, with strong characters who moved the story along. The pacing was very good, giving enough action and suspense whilst not overloading the reader. Unfortunately, I felt the big bad and the situation about the why's and whatnot's was a bit too predictable. Knowing this was set in America, and knowing how expensive healthcare is, it certainly did not come as a surprise, nor did his actions afterwards.
This is a Christian Fiction novel so be prepared for an emphasis on God, what is right and wrong, and the possibility of an afterlife.
On the whole, this was a good story that I enjoyed, but there wasn't anything that really surprised me. If you like Christian Fiction and Suspense, then I can definitely recommend this one.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 14, 2021
Suswatibasu (1701 KP) rated The Poisonwood Bible in Books
Jul 24, 2017
Detailed look into colonialism in Congo
Barbara Kingsolver's epic novel about missionaries and colonialism in the Congo through the eyes of the women in a Christian American family is decadent and detailed. While many will complain about the hard hitting truths of complicity of western nations in destroying the country, it is extremely important and brings to light many historically overlooked issues.
Keeping in mind that this is fictional, the various narratives are well researched to the point where at times it seems plausible and factual. The four main voices are completely different from one another and sometimes the anti-communist voice seemed like a mockery of that type of rhetoric. Leah's voice seemed more realistic than the others. Overall, a well written piece of literary fiction.
Keeping in mind that this is fictional, the various narratives are well researched to the point where at times it seems plausible and factual. The four main voices are completely different from one another and sometimes the anti-communist voice seemed like a mockery of that type of rhetoric. Leah's voice seemed more realistic than the others. Overall, a well written piece of literary fiction.
Hutch (9 KP) rated True Romance (1993) in Movies
Jun 18, 2019
Who said Romamce was dead?
Tarantino really burst onto the scene in unforgettable fashion in the early 90s and sandwiched between Reservoir Dogs and Pulp Fiction is this often overlooked Tarantino penned gem.
Full of the witty dialogue, odd ball characters and great music that we've all come to expect from Tarantino, all bought to life by a stunning supporting cast.
I've always thought Christian Slater has been under rated and he proves my point here. Playing Clarence with so much charm and swagger that you can't help rooting for him and Alabama right from the start.
And the scene with Dennis Hopper and Christopher Walken is so well written and played out that its gotta rank right up there with the best of Tarantino.
Full of the witty dialogue, odd ball characters and great music that we've all come to expect from Tarantino, all bought to life by a stunning supporting cast.
I've always thought Christian Slater has been under rated and he proves my point here. Playing Clarence with so much charm and swagger that you can't help rooting for him and Alabama right from the start.
And the scene with Dennis Hopper and Christopher Walken is so well written and played out that its gotta rank right up there with the best of Tarantino.
Heather Cranmer (2721 KP) created a post
Feb 9, 2023
Rachel King (13 KP) rated She Walks in Beauty in Books
Feb 11, 2019
I knew next to nothing about New York City's gilded age before reading this book, so this was both a history lesson and an eye-opener to the practices of that time period, expecially among the wealthy young women. I had no idea of the extent that corsets were damaging to the body and health of a woman, and it really explains much of the female behavior that has been epitomized in Hollywood's classic films, such as the common fainting spells. It shows that the "modern" world really has not changed very much in regards to the demands put on women to look and act a certain way to be regarded as attractive. The similarities between Hollywood and the Gilded Age are both remarkable and quite sad, from the encouragement of anorexia and the overindulgence of luxury to how the popularity of an individual can be solely determined by the words of the press.
I did enjoy following Clara's rise to fame and infamy, even if the glamour and mystery of it was stripped away, so to speak. The Christian themes of God loving you just as you are and having a purpose beyond the practices of "society" seemed muted and understated throughout the book, but rather than detracting from the plot, it only seemed to enhance it. While I have been under the impression that books that fall in this genre of Christian Fiction should focus mostly on some Christian theme, this particular book did not seem to. The focus seemed more on revealing the truth about what really happened in New York City's Gilded Age through the eyes of a debutante.
I did enjoy following Clara's rise to fame and infamy, even if the glamour and mystery of it was stripped away, so to speak. The Christian themes of God loving you just as you are and having a purpose beyond the practices of "society" seemed muted and understated throughout the book, but rather than detracting from the plot, it only seemed to enhance it. While I have been under the impression that books that fall in this genre of Christian Fiction should focus mostly on some Christian theme, this particular book did not seem to. The focus seemed more on revealing the truth about what really happened in New York City's Gilded Age through the eyes of a debutante.
MaryAnn (14 KP) rated Lewis on the Christian Life: Becoming Truly Human in the Presence of God in Books
Mar 5, 2019
Synopsis: C.S. Lewis excelled at plumbing the depths of the human heart, both the good and the bad, the beautiful and the corrupt. From science fiction and fantasy to essays, letters, and works of apologetics, Lewis has offered a wealth of insight into how to live the Christian life.
In this book, Rigney explores the center of Lewis’s vision for the Christian life—the personal encounter between the human self and the living God. In prayer, in the church, in the imagination, in our natural loves, in our pleasures and our sorrows, God brings us into his presence so that we can become fully human: alive, free, and whole, transformed into the image of Jesus Christ.
My Thoughts: This is a book that takes a look into the life of C.S. Lewis; author of many books that readers have come to love. This is a wonderful book for those who enjoy reading C.S. Lewis' books as it gives an idea to the reader the thoughts and insights in his writings.
This is a good book for those who want to become acquainted with Mr. Lewis and will certainly want to go back and read his books again.
Iam certain that readers will enjoy this book.
In this book, Rigney explores the center of Lewis’s vision for the Christian life—the personal encounter between the human self and the living God. In prayer, in the church, in the imagination, in our natural loves, in our pleasures and our sorrows, God brings us into his presence so that we can become fully human: alive, free, and whole, transformed into the image of Jesus Christ.
My Thoughts: This is a book that takes a look into the life of C.S. Lewis; author of many books that readers have come to love. This is a wonderful book for those who enjoy reading C.S. Lewis' books as it gives an idea to the reader the thoughts and insights in his writings.
This is a good book for those who want to become acquainted with Mr. Lewis and will certainly want to go back and read his books again.
Iam certain that readers will enjoy this book.
Rachel King (13 KP) rated The Lightkeeper's Daughters in Books
Feb 11, 2019
This is the first book I received from Thomas Nelson for reviewing, and because of shipping problems, by the time I recieved it I had forgotten why I originally picked it. I started reading the book out of obligation, and at first, had a hard time actually enjoying what I was reading. It felt a bit like a school assignment for the first 80 pages, which is generally how far I will go in a book before I decide whether or not I want to finish it. Luckily, at that point the book actually started to get interesting as Addie became snoopy around the house and began unearthing clues about her mother. I am not much for the mystery genre, but I found the detective-like aspects of this novel much more entertaining than the chaste romance between Addie Sullivan and Lieutenant North, which led up to a climax that was so exciting I chose finishing the novel to sleeping when I was sick with a cold.
Regarding the more religious aspects of the novel, I thought that the depiction of Addie's faith in God to be somewhat watered down and simplified with possibly not enough attention given to its place in her life. Often I find ithis is the case with literature in the genre of Christian fiction. The single time that scripture from the Bible is quoted, it's merely a few lines out of Psalms, and each time that we see Addie praying, she only spends a few moments in prayer before something else requires her attention. This is not to say that all Christian fiction - categorized works do this, as I have read some truly excellent portrayals of faith in Jesus, but this book certainly did.
Overall, I would recommend the book more for its plot elements of mystery and intrigue, not for its religious aspects.
Regarding the more religious aspects of the novel, I thought that the depiction of Addie's faith in God to be somewhat watered down and simplified with possibly not enough attention given to its place in her life. Often I find ithis is the case with literature in the genre of Christian fiction. The single time that scripture from the Bible is quoted, it's merely a few lines out of Psalms, and each time that we see Addie praying, she only spends a few moments in prayer before something else requires her attention. This is not to say that all Christian fiction - categorized works do this, as I have read some truly excellent portrayals of faith in Jesus, but this book certainly did.
Overall, I would recommend the book more for its plot elements of mystery and intrigue, not for its religious aspects.
Lindsay (1693 KP) rated Going Home (Brides of Webster County,#1) in Books
Jul 24, 2019
Faith comes home after living in the English world. She has her daughter in tow with her. What happen to Faith Stutzman Andrews and her daughter. Faith is widowed but what happen to her husband and what makes her to come home.
Noah is enjoying with doing things in the kitchen rather then work in the fields. Noah seem to like help other out and make them feel better. Will Noah be able to help Faith? Their seem to be rules that Faith must follow when she returns back to her parents home.
Will Faith decide to stay or will she leave once again. Noah seem like he likes Faith and her daughter. The author does well with this story. It show that it okay to return back home. Will Faith and Noah find love with each other? It seem that Wanda does this. I remember bit and parts about this story when I read it about seven years ago. I would love to reread it in audio book if I ever get the chance.
This book is worth reading. If you are a fan of christian fiction or even Amish fiction. Wanda is a really good storyteller and this story is no different.
Noah is enjoying with doing things in the kitchen rather then work in the fields. Noah seem to like help other out and make them feel better. Will Noah be able to help Faith? Their seem to be rules that Faith must follow when she returns back to her parents home.
Will Faith decide to stay or will she leave once again. Noah seem like he likes Faith and her daughter. The author does well with this story. It show that it okay to return back home. Will Faith and Noah find love with each other? It seem that Wanda does this. I remember bit and parts about this story when I read it about seven years ago. I would love to reread it in audio book if I ever get the chance.
This book is worth reading. If you are a fan of christian fiction or even Amish fiction. Wanda is a really good storyteller and this story is no different.
ClareR (5551 KP) rated The Heroines in Books
Oct 29, 2023
Greek mythology is pretty much an insta-buy and read for me. I’m drawn to historical fiction anyway, and the Greek myths have always felt like an extension of that for me. That’s probably also why I’m especially attracted to the type of Greek myths that are so popular at the moment. I suppose it could be referred to more as Greek historical fiction rather than myth. The Gods and Goddesses have been taken out of the equation (inasmuch as Christian figures are in other historical fiction novels - they’re spoken of, but they don’t have a leading role), and the mortals are left to make their own life choices - even if they still like to blame it on the Gods.
Laura Shepperson gives voice to the women in the myths, and we see the story of Theseus and Phaedra from Phaedra’s point of view. There’s also a chorus of women who are suffering under the mistreatment of the men in Theseus’ palace. Servants and slave women had to do as they were told. The struggle for the women against this patriarchal system is at times violent, and the women rarely come out of it well.
There were a lot of characters in this, and I wonder if all of them were necessary. I’ll be honest, and it could be down to the good ole peri-meno brain, I did get a little confused at all the characters, but it didn’t spoil the story!
I enjoyed this quick read (ok, I didn’t put it down!). It gave me enjoyment for a couple of days - and that’s what reading is all about really, isn’t it!
Laura Shepperson gives voice to the women in the myths, and we see the story of Theseus and Phaedra from Phaedra’s point of view. There’s also a chorus of women who are suffering under the mistreatment of the men in Theseus’ palace. Servants and slave women had to do as they were told. The struggle for the women against this patriarchal system is at times violent, and the women rarely come out of it well.
There were a lot of characters in this, and I wonder if all of them were necessary. I’ll be honest, and it could be down to the good ole peri-meno brain, I did get a little confused at all the characters, but it didn’t spoil the story!
I enjoyed this quick read (ok, I didn’t put it down!). It gave me enjoyment for a couple of days - and that’s what reading is all about really, isn’t it!