How cool is it when you get to review pajamas? It’s even cooler when they come from a Christian company! I love the purpose behind Holy Pals.
They are all about making the Bible part of children at home! Each pajama set not only has a fun Biblical print ( Easter, Esther, Noah, David & Goliath, Daniel, Jonah and so much more!) but it also has the passage reference stitched on the sleeve! Talk about an opportunity to study God’s word together and have reminder of it as you sleep!
I am wearing their new Christmas collection mine are called Away in a Manger. They are cozy and soft! They come in sizes XS-XL. I love that they have pockets. It’s a snug fit so I wish I would have ordered a size up just because I like loose things when I’m sleeping. Despite that they are super comfy though and not scratchy like other pj’s tend to be. I love that they feature the manger, Mary and Joseph, Wise Men and the cutest angels!
If you are looking for matching Christmas pj’s with a special meaning then check them out and receive 10% off with my special code: https://holypals.com/discount/KELLYANN10
Thank you @holypalsinc and @frontgatem for the opportunity to review this product! All views expressed are only my honest opinion!
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About the Book
Author: Katherine Barger
Genre: Young Adult Christian Dystopian
Series: Exiled Trilogy, Book 3
Release Date: October 3, 2022
Publisher: Anaiah Press
The exiles escaped from Burgus—the most notorious prison in America—and fled to the safety of Fortune’s Fall. But Nyssa Ardelone stayed behind with the hopes that she can convince the president that the exiles mean him no harm—despite his prophetic dreams that have convinced him otherwise. With a fake dream implanted into his dream recorder, Nyssa’s confident she can make him believe that his survival is conditional on the exiles’ safe return to Maren. But the task proves harder than she anticipated when she discovers the dream has sound in it, something that’s never happened in any previous prophetic dream. Suspicious, the president becomes more unpredictable than ever before, and if Nyssa can’t figure out why the dream has sound, reuniting with her family and friends in Maren might prove impossible.
With the help of an unexpected friend, Nyssa uncovers the truth behind the sound as well as long-buried secrets about the president’s past, a past that the president will do anything to keep hidden, including the total annihilation of the exiles. To protect the exiles and ensure their safe return to Maren, Nyssa will confront the president one final time, and its outcome will either give her everything she ever wanted, or destroy everyone she loves.
With the help of an unexpected friend, Nyssa uncovers the truth behind the sound as well as long-buried secrets about the president’s past, a past that the president will do anything to keep hidden, including the total annihilation of the exiles. To protect the exiles and ensure their safe return to Maren, Nyssa will confront the president one final time, and its outcome will either give her everything she ever wanted, or destroy everyone she loves.
My Thoughts
I have been awaiting for this book for what seems like forever. Katherine Barger definitely captured from her very first book as we journeyed with Nyssa and every time she left me in a cliffhanger and wanting more. It was sad to turn the last page and realize this was the end to this wonderful trilogy. You will definitely want to read this series from the very beginning so don't pick this book thinking you will figure it out. You won't. The story truly unfolds in each book.
One of the main things I enjoyed in this series is the Biblical parallels that Katherine instills within the storyline. This one is inspired by the return of the Jews to Jerusalem which we see in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. While this story is not going to parallel specific moments you can tell this is where the inspiration comes from.
I am not going to divulge too much on this story as I don't want to give anything away, especially if you haven't read the previous books but I will say that there is some twists I didn't see coming. There is some romance but it is very light. The only thing I was hoping to see a little bit more resolution on was Nyssa's faith. She still continues to waver and doubt throughout this story. While I think it was very realistic way to do this and will in no doubt be encouraging and relatable to new Christians being that this is the last book I was hoping for more development in this area. This is in no way a negative to the author, like I said I think she did a splendid job at making relatable.
Overall I really enjoyed this story and I am going to miss being in this fictional world with these characters. I for one can't wait to see what else this author comes up with! is a perfect read for young adults and even middle schoolers that like the dystopian genre.
My Rating: 4 Stars/ Really Liked it
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Katherine Barger writes stories about characters of faith in a world where faith is challenged. When she’s not wrangling kids alongside her forever-forbearing husband, she’s writing, eating Mexican food, or snuggling with her family’s two rescue pets: a dog named Queen Elsa and a cat named Princess Jasmine.
Katherine loves hearing from readers! You can contact her at katherinebarger.com, or on Facebook or Instagram.
Katherine loves hearing from readers! You can contact her at katherinebarger.com, or on Facebook or Instagram.
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About the Book
Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher
Genre: Christian Amish Romance Fiction
Release Date: October 4, 2022
Publisher: Revell
It's not easy being the bishop's daughter, especially for Lydie Stoltzfus. She's not like other Amish girls, as much as she wishes she were. The only thing she does well is disappoint others. Leaving her family and church seems unbearable, but staying might be worse.
Knowing Lydie is "between" jobs, the local doctor asks her to fill in at the front desk for a few months. To Lydie, this is a boon. It gives her time to figure out how she's going to say goodbye to her neighbor, Nathan Yoder--the main reason she needs to leave Stoney Ridge. Nathan claims he's in love with her, but she knows she's not good enough for him. If in doubt, Nathan's father reminds her frequently.
As Dok spends time with Lydie, she recognizes symptoms of a disorder rare among the Amish. She offers treatment for Lydie. But will it be enough to make her stay? Or has help come too late?
Bestselling and award-winning author Suzanne Woods Fisher invites you back to Stoney Ridge, a small town that feels like an old friend.
Knowing Lydie is "between" jobs, the local doctor asks her to fill in at the front desk for a few months. To Lydie, this is a boon. It gives her time to figure out how she's going to say goodbye to her neighbor, Nathan Yoder--the main reason she needs to leave Stoney Ridge. Nathan claims he's in love with her, but she knows she's not good enough for him. If in doubt, Nathan's father reminds her frequently.
As Dok spends time with Lydie, she recognizes symptoms of a disorder rare among the Amish. She offers treatment for Lydie. But will it be enough to make her stay? Or has help come too late?
Bestselling and award-winning author Suzanne Woods Fisher invites you back to Stoney Ridge, a small town that feels like an old friend.
My Thoughts
It's been a while since I've read an Amish Fiction story and this one did not disappoint. This was nothing I have ever read and the author tackles a topic that I don't think has been tackled to this detail in Christian Fiction.
In this story we meet Lydie who suffers from ADHD. This is something that the Amish don't believe can happen to them and pretty much ignore. Sadly this causes Lydie to be misunderstood and categorized into something that she isn't. She can't help the way her mind works. Having a kiddo with ADHD myself I definitely could see the similarities. It became that much more enjoyable for Lydie to find a resolution because we have lived this.
I really enjoyed Dok and how she helps her see the potential that is inside her once she applies herself. Another character I enjoyed was Nathan. He was perfect for her despite her staying away from him I was so glad that he never gave up on her and kept on pursuing her in his own way.
Overall I thought this was a great story and if you are in the mood to go into Amish country then definitely grab this book!!
My Rating: 4 Stars/Really Liked it!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher Revell. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Suzanne Woods Fisher is the bestselling, award winning author of fiction and non-fiction books about the Old Order Amish for Revell Books, host of the radio-show-turned-blog Amish Wisdom, a columnist for Christian Post and Cooking & Such magazine.
Her interest in the Amish began with her grandfather, who was raised Plain. A theme in her books (her life!) is that you don’t have to “go Amish” to incorporate the principles of simple living.
Suzanne lives in California with her family and raises puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind. To her way of thinking, you just can't life too seriously when a puppy is tearing through your house with someone's underwear in its mouth.
Suzanne can be found on-line at: www.suzannewoodsfisher.com
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About a Book
Author: Irene Hannon
Series: Triple Threat, Book 3
Genre: Christian Mystery Suspense
Publisher: Revell
Release Date: October 4, 2022
Forensic pathologist Grace Reilly has seen her share of unusual deaths in rural Missouri. But when she begins to notice a curious pattern in autopsies of elderly residents whose demise appears to be natural, she takes her concerns to Sheriff Nate Cox.
Nate is skeptical about the link Grace is seeing between the deaths--and her suspicions of foul play. But her persistence is compelling. Once she finally convinces him her theory is credible and they join forces to investigate, danger follows. Because exposing the truth could destroy several lives--including Grace's.
Queen of inspirational romantic suspense Irene Hannon closes out her bestselling Triple Threat series with this gripping tale of secrets revealed and romance sparked.
Nate is skeptical about the link Grace is seeing between the deaths--and her suspicions of foul play. But her persistence is compelling. Once she finally convinces him her theory is credible and they join forces to investigate, danger follows. Because exposing the truth could destroy several lives--including Grace's.
Queen of inspirational romantic suspense Irene Hannon closes out her bestselling Triple Threat series with this gripping tale of secrets revealed and romance sparked.
My Thoughts
Another great read by Irene Hannon and a great ending to the series. We finally get to read about the third Reilly sister Grace. Once again I was sitting at the edge of my seat trying to figure out who the culprit was and I honestly did not figure it out on my own so definitely a great story.
Mrs. Hannon definitely has done her research on what it takes to be a forensic pathologist. There are some vivid details that are not for the squeamish reader but she made it so interesting it was easy to continue the story. The love interest Nate was so good and I really enjoyed how their relationship just flowed.
Overall I thought this was a great story and if you enjoy Christian Suspense then you will really enjoy this book. I will advise you start from the beginning to read the series from the beginning so you can get to know the other characters that pop up better!
My Rating: 4 Stars/Really enjoyed it!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher Revell. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
A former corporate communications executive with a Fortune 500 company, Irene now writes full time. To learn more about Irene and her books, visit www.irenehannon.com.
About the Book
Book: The Bookshop of Secrets
Author: Mollie Rushmeyer
Genre: Contemporary Women’s Fiction (Christian)
Release date: October 25, 2022
Author: Mollie Rushmeyer
Genre: Contemporary Women’s Fiction (Christian)
Release date: October 25, 2022
A collection of lost books holds the clues to her family’s legacy…and her future.
Hope Sparrow has mastered the art of outrunning her tragic past, learning never to stay anywhere too long and never to allow anyone control over her life again. Coming to Wanishin Falls in search of her family’s history already feels too risky. But somewhere in the towering stacks of this dusty old bookshop are the books that hold Hope’s last ties to her late mother—and to a rumored family treasure that could help her start over.
Only, the bookshop is in shambles, and the elderly owner is in the beginning stages of dementia and can’t remember where the books lie. To find the last links to the loved ones she’s lost, Hope must stay and accept help from the townsfolk to locate the treasured volumes. Each secret she uncovers brings her closer to understanding where she came from. But the longer she stays in the quaint town, the more people find their way into the cracks in her heart. And letting them in may be the greatest risk of all…
Click here to get your copy!
My Thoughts
As soon as I saw the cover of this book I knew I wanted to read it. I mean what is not to love about a setting that is in a bookshop?! I mean that is a book nerds dream. Not only is the book cover amazing but the storyline is spectacular. This is Mollie Rushmeyer's debut novel and she did such an amazing job with it. I truly did not what to expect but the story is so much more than what the summary relays.
I was completely captured by the characters. We meet Hope who steps into Dusty Jackets a bookshop owned by an elderly couple. She is looking for her mothers books that she has left her. Immediately you can tell that she has secrets that she doesn't want to divulge them. She is closed off and doesn't like people getting close to her but she can't help it after all she in a small town where everyone knows everyone and everything. Her mother has left her these classic books with clues to a treasure. In trying to find her books she meets wonderful people in the town including Ronan which is the grandson of the owner of the bookstore. He is not without his own hurts and past but together they manage to overcome their hurts.
I can't tell you too much because it will ruin it for you but know that this story definitely has its twists and turns. It has a bit suspense and of course there is romance. But most of all there is a strong element of faith and the way the author incorporates it into the clues of the treasure hunt is very unique. Kudos to the author as well for tackling some deep subjects that some may shy away from. The topic of dementia and human trafficking are a big part of the story and the author does present them in a gentle but touching way. She does make you feel the pain and suffering that Hope has gone through and truly connects you to the character.
Overall I really enjoyed this story and I cannot wait to read Mollie's future books. I am hoping she writes about one of the characters in this story. I think she could use her own book! (I won't tell you who it is but if you read this I think you will see who I am talking about!)
My Rating: 4 Stars/Really Liked it!
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Mollie writes contemporary fiction with a heart for history. What does this mean exactly? She loves to write inspirational fiction in contemporary settings with fascinating historical elements, people, objects, and stories woven throughout.
A modern girl herself– She wouldn’t want to go a day without modern plumbing and central air! But she’s always felt a special connection to the past. The legacies and lives left behind are like gifts waiting to be unwrapped, and she’s excited to share this blend of history and contemporary living with readers.
A born and bred Midwestern gal, Mollie Rushmeyer, makes her home in central Minnesota with her husband and two spunky, beautiful daughters. She is not only a bibliophile (the dustier the better, in her opinion), she’s a true anglophile at heart. Tea and coffee fuel her travels, by Google maps at least, and her passion for the written word.
More from Mollie
Since childhood, opening up a book unlocked a whole new world for me. Of possibilities and adventure, and made me care for people and places that didn’t exist. Like stepping through the wardrobe into Narnia, books transported me. It was like magic.
As I began dreaming up The Bookshop of Secrets in its early stages, I knew I wanted to create a character who loved books and was in awe of their transformative and transportive power as much as I am. Thus, Hope Sparrow, a human trafficking survivor and ultimate book lover, was born. I also wanted to honor my grandpa, who planted the seed—love of the written word—in my heart from the time I was very young. And so, Ulysses, the owner of Dusty Jackets Bookshop in the story, is based on my sweet grandpa who has since passed away. But I know he’d love this homage to all things literary.
Afterward, I didn’t know if I’d ever write again and I was more terrified of that than not gaining back the full strength of my left arm.
In the middle of writing this book, in 2018, I had a stroke. As with most medical emergencies, it was quite unexpected. I had a hole in my heart (that has been repaired, thankfully). Afterward, I didn’t know if I’d ever write again and I was more terrified of that than not being able to fully move my left arm again. My brain had to make new connections and it was so difficult, still is some days, to be creative. To find the right words.
But God. In the way that only He can, He brought this forgotten story, this project’s finish line that seemed to be at the summit of an insurmountable mountain within reach. I thought I had something to prove to myself. I begged God not to forget my dream to write. Like He could. But in the end, I just had to trust like my character Hope. Trust that He is good even when life hurts and is uncertain.
“Do you know what the opposite of fear is?”
“Bravery? Peace?” Dare she say her namesake, hope?
“The true counterpart of fear is faith. It takes faith to walk into the future, the unknown, with confidence. Secure in the love of the One who created you and those around you outweighs any hardship, real or imagined, that lies on the path ahead.”
I hope following Hope’s journey of healing and love in The Bookshop of Secrets truly blesses you.
Blog Stops
Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 27
lakesidelivingsite, October 27
Inklings and notions, October 28
Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 28
Simple Harvest Reads, October 28 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)
An Author’s Take, October 29
The Write Escape, October 29
deb’s Book Review, October 29
Texas Book-aholic, October 30
Rebecca Tews, October 30
Blogging With Carol, October 30
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 31
Inspired by fiction, October 31
Life of Literature, October 31
Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, November 1
Cover Lover Book Review, November 1
Locks, Hooks and Books, November 2
Losing the Busyness, November 2
For Him and My Family, November 2
Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, November 3
Holly’s Book Corner, November 3
Mary Hake, November 3
Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, November 4 (Author Interview)
Paula’s Pad of Suspense and Detection, November 4
Blossoms and Blessings, November 4
Sylvan Musings, November 5
Lily’s Book Reviews, November 5
A Modern Day Fairy Tale, November 5
A Reader’s Brain, November 6
Book Looks by Lisa, November 6
Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 7
Truth and Grace Homeachool Academy, November 7
Story Craft, November 7
Through the fire blogs, November 8
Pause for Tales, November 8
Labor Not in Vain, November 8
Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, November 9
To Everything There Is A Season, November 9
Lights in a Dark World, November 9
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Mollie is giving away the grand prize package of a eBook or signed paperback copy (paperback U.S. Only) of The Bookshop of Secrets and a $50 Amazon gift card!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/226c7/the-bookshop-of-secrets-celebration-tour-giveaway
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About the Book
Author: Catherine Brusk
Series: Finding Faith
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance
Release Date: July 12, 2020
Forced into the world of sex trafficking at age ten by her stepfather, nineteen-year-old Jessi Campbell only wants to forget the years of hell that she endured. Court dates, parole hearings, and countless hours of therapy have finally slowed. But her growing faith in God still seems too weak to fight off the looming nightmares and oppressive guilt that hangs over any normalcy in her life.
Then she meets Kip Parks, a promiscuous, fun-loving classmate, and her stringent, rule-lead lifestyle is threatened by his adventurous and wild spirit. Kip forces her out of her comfort zone, insisting on things like trust and openness, but she lives in fear of what his response will be when he finds out about her secret. Jessi finds herself caught in a whirlwind of having someone treat her like an ordinary person; she slowly begins to overcome her past as a victim, and starts to actually live—even sharing her faith with skeptical Kip. But what will happen when she finds out that Kip hasn’t been honest with her? What will she do when she finds out that he views her as so much more than ordinary?
Then she meets Kip Parks, a promiscuous, fun-loving classmate, and her stringent, rule-lead lifestyle is threatened by his adventurous and wild spirit. Kip forces her out of her comfort zone, insisting on things like trust and openness, but she lives in fear of what his response will be when he finds out about her secret. Jessi finds herself caught in a whirlwind of having someone treat her like an ordinary person; she slowly begins to overcome her past as a victim, and starts to actually live—even sharing her faith with skeptical Kip. But what will happen when she finds out that Kip hasn’t been honest with her? What will she do when she finds out that he views her as so much more than ordinary?
My Thoughts
Um wow!! This book was amazing. I honestly did not think that I was going to love this book so much. I read it in one night. Yes, I stayed up until 3am in the morning but it was completely worth it! This book had me from the very beginning. The characters Kip and Jessi are so relatable and their relationship and the way if flourishes throughout the story is beautiful. Kip stole my heart from the very beginning despite him having a "bad boy" persona. Jessi as well had me. Her past tore me up. I don't want to ruin this book for you but it was truly heartbreaking.
Catherine has taken the very hard subject of Human Sexual Trafficking and truly makes you see what it is like to be a survivor. She definitely does not shy from seeing the hurts and emotional effects it has on a person and those around her. But she also ties in a faith thread so beautifully on how God can heal a person and make them stronger. The faith walk that these two characters go through is wonderful and I loved seeing the growth as the story develops.
This book was amazing. I could read about these two characters forever because now I want to know what happens to them in life! I know there are other books in the series and I sure hope that we see them again. Their story was amazing and the way their relationship grows its truly beautiful and realistic. I have already uploaded the second book unto my Kindle and looking forward to that story and hoping that I see Jessi and Kip again.
My Rating: 5 Stars/Absolutely Amazing!
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Author of the "Finding Faith" series, available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited. Catherine has a bachelor's degree in Communications with an emphasis on film. She loves everything that includes a story and thinks humor and dessert are some of the Lord's best blessings.
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About the Book
Author: Jaime Jo Wright
Genre: Christian Suspense
Publisher: Bethany House
Release Date: October 11, 2022
In 1910 Michigan, Perliett VanHilton is a self-proclaimed rural healer, leaving the local doctor, George Wasziak, convinced she practices quackery. It doesn't help that her mother, Maribeth VanHilton, is a Spiritualist who regularly offers her services to help others speak to their dearly departed. But when Perliett is targeted by a superstitious killer, she relies on both George and an intriguing newcomer for help.
In the present day, life has not developed the way Molly Wasziak dreamed. Facing depression after multiple miscarriages, Molly is adapting to her husband's purchase of a new farm. A search for a family tree pulls Molly deep into a vintage web of deceptions, made more mysterious by the disturbing shadows and sounds in the old farmhouse.
Perliett fights for her life, and Molly seeks renewed purpose for hers as she uncovers the records of the dead. Will their voices be heard, or will time silence their truths forever?
In the present day, life has not developed the way Molly Wasziak dreamed. Facing depression after multiple miscarriages, Molly is adapting to her husband's purchase of a new farm. A search for a family tree pulls Molly deep into a vintage web of deceptions, made more mysterious by the disturbing shadows and sounds in the old farmhouse.
Perliett fights for her life, and Molly seeks renewed purpose for hers as she uncovers the records of the dead. Will their voices be heard, or will time silence their truths forever?
My Thoughts
Jaime Jo has done it again!! What an excellent book! I love her books and await them with all the patience I can muster. So far her books have not disappointed me, just when I think her last book is the best by far she goes and writes another one that is even better than the last! If you have never read a Jaime Jo book let's dig into this one and see if I can tell you about the story without any spoilers.
From the very first page you are captivated and thrown into a mystery that takes you into a very wild and creepy ride. This is a dual time story which deals with two families which happened to be intertwined but we don't truly find how until you delve into the story. Perliett is from the past, 1910 to be exact, and Molly Wasziak is from the present timeline. These ladies in their respective timelines try to find out who the "Cornfield Ripper" is/was.
The story is full of suspense and action. There are twists I truly did not expect and I did not figure out who the "villain" was in neither timeline. It was definitely not expected. The creepy factor is high. I wish I could tell you but truly I would ruin it if I do. Let's just say that cornfields and old farmhouses are a no for me.
There is so much more to this story than that though. Jaime Jo truly tackles some topics that while reading may make you slightly uncomfortable and I think they should. She touches on the subject of spiritualism and talking to the dead. I think this is not only a topic that was so prevalent in the 1900's but also it is something that we see a lot more in our world today. As Christians it should make us uncomfortable that evil is taking over so much and we should fight back. Jaime Jo does an excellent job at shedding faith and light to this subject and I think she makes it clear where God stands in all of it.
Miscarriage is also a big topic in the plot of the story and I think she did a great job at depicting the realities a relationship goes through while someone is going through such loss. But if this is trigger point for you I wanted you to be aware.
I am not sure how an author's mind thinks or how characters and storylines comes to them but I am thankful that they do. Jaime Jo is an amazing writer. She definitely helps me lose sleep as I devour one of her stories so lots of coffee is consumed the following day (no worries there lol). In all seriousness I think she is very talented and I really appreciate that her writing, though truly creepy never fails to have a strong faith thread and she doesn't back away from tackling hard topics. I for one can't wait for her next book!
My Rating: 5 Stars/ LOVED it!!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Daphne du Maurier and Christy Award-Winning author, Jaime Jo Wright resides in the hills of Wisconsin writing suspenseful, mysteries stained with history's secrets. Jaime lives in dreamland, exists in reality, and invites you to join her adventures at jaimewrightbooks.com!
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About the Book
Author: Mollie Rushmeyer
Genre: Christian Contemporary Fiction
Publisher: Love Inspired Trade
Release Date: October 25, 2022
A collection of lost books holds the clues to her family's legacy…and her future.
Hope Sparrow has mastered the art of outrunning her tragic past, learning never to stay anywhere too long and never to allow anyone control over her life again. Coming to Wanishin Falls in search of her family's history already feels too risky. But somewhere in the towering stacks of this dusty old bookshop are the books that hold Hope's last ties to her late mother—and to a rumored family treasure that could help her start over.
Only, the bookshop is in shambles, and the elderly owner is in the beginning stages of dementia and can’t remember where the books lie. To find the last links to the loved ones she's lost, Hope must stay and accept help from the townsfolk to locate the treasured volumes. Each secret she uncovers brings her closer to understanding where she came from. But the longer she stays in the quaint town, the more people find their way into the cracks in her heart. And letting them in may be the greatest risk of all…
Hope Sparrow has mastered the art of outrunning her tragic past, learning never to stay anywhere too long and never to allow anyone control over her life again. Coming to Wanishin Falls in search of her family's history already feels too risky. But somewhere in the towering stacks of this dusty old bookshop are the books that hold Hope's last ties to her late mother—and to a rumored family treasure that could help her start over.
Only, the bookshop is in shambles, and the elderly owner is in the beginning stages of dementia and can’t remember where the books lie. To find the last links to the loved ones she's lost, Hope must stay and accept help from the townsfolk to locate the treasured volumes. Each secret she uncovers brings her closer to understanding where she came from. But the longer she stays in the quaint town, the more people find their way into the cracks in her heart. And letting them in may be the greatest risk of all…
My Thoughts
As soon as I saw the cover of this book I knew I wanted to read it. I mean what is not to love about a setting that is in a bookshop?! I mean that is a book nerds dream. Not only is the book cover amazing but the storyline is spectacular. This is Mollie Rushmeyer's debut novel and she did such an amazing job with it. I truly did not what to expect but the story is so much more than what the summary relays.
I was completely captured by the characters. We meet Hope who steps into Dusty Jackets a bookshop owned by an elderly couple. She is looking for her mothers books that she has left her. Immediately you can tell that she has secrets that she doesn't want to divulge them. She is closed off and doesn't like people getting close to her but she can't help it after all she in a small town where everyone knows everyone and everything. Her mother has left her these classic books with clues to a treasure. In trying to find her books she meets wonderful people in the town including Ronan which is the grandson of the owner of the bookstore. He is not without his own hurts and past but together they manage to overcome their hurts.
I can't tell you too much because it will ruin it for you but know that this story definitely has its twists and turns. It has a bit suspense and of course there is romance. But most of all there is a strong element of faith and the way the author incorporates it into the clues of the treasure hunt is very unique. Kudos to the author as well for tackling some deep subjects that some may shy away from. The topic of dementia and human trafficking are a big part of the story and the author does present them in a gentle but touching way. She does make you feel the pain and suffering that Hope has gone through and truly connects you to the character.
Overall I really enjoyed this story and I cannot wait to read Mollie's future books. I am hoping she writes about one of the characters in this story. I think she could use her own book! (I won't tell you who it is but if you read this I think you will see who I am talking about!)
My Rating: 4 Stars/Really Liked it!
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
About the Book
Book: The Lost Melody
Author: Joanna Davidson Politano
Genre: Historical Christian Romance
Publisher: Revell
Release Date: October 4, 2022
When concert pianist Vivienne Mourdant's father dies, he leaves to her the care of an adult ward she knew nothing about. The woman is supposedly a patient at Hurstwell Asylum. The woman's portrait is shockingly familiar to Vivienne, so when the asylum claims she was never a patient there, Vivienne is compelled to discover what happened to the figure she remembers from childhood dreams.
The longer she lingers in the deep shadows and forgotten towers at Hurstwell, the fuzzier the line between sanity and madness becomes. She hears music no one else does, receives strange missives with rose petals between the pages, and untangles far more than is safe for her to know. But can she uncover the truth about the mysterious woman she seeks? And is there anyone at Hurstwell she can trust with her suspicions?
Fan-favorite Joanna Davidson Politano casts a delightful spell with this lyrical look into the nature of women's independence and artistic expression during the Victorian era--and now.
The longer she lingers in the deep shadows and forgotten towers at Hurstwell, the fuzzier the line between sanity and madness becomes. She hears music no one else does, receives strange missives with rose petals between the pages, and untangles far more than is safe for her to know. But can she uncover the truth about the mysterious woman she seeks? And is there anyone at Hurstwell she can trust with her suspicions?
Fan-favorite Joanna Davidson Politano casts a delightful spell with this lyrical look into the nature of women's independence and artistic expression during the Victorian era--and now.
My Thoughts
Wow!! Another amazing story from Joanna! I always look forward to her books. They are always filled with depth and the characters are so believable. This book is no different. I honestly did not know what to expect the summary truly is just a little sampling of what this book entails. There is SO much happening here and it was hauntingly beautiful and I must admit this was one of those books that I tried really hard not to look at the back of the book to see how it ended. Trust me it is hard not to an I'm glad I didn't because I would've ruined all the surprises.
Vivienne Mourdant is the main character in this story. She is a concert pianist who wants to not only play music because it flows through her but she wants to help women in need. Those that come from abusive homes. Her father was not the kindest of men and when he passes she sees her future as it should be but boy do things go awry as she tries to uncover who this ward is that her father has been hiding at Hurstwell Asylum. While she is at the asylum twists and turns begin to happen as she is admitted as a patient rather than an employee. I will not spoil it for you so you will definitely have to find out on your own.
Politano does an excellent job at bringing life at an asylum to life. You can tell that she has done her research especially in that time period that she is writing in. The reasons that people ended up in asylums was unbelievable. The treatable reasons that we may know today such as dementia, post-partum depression, autism are some of the reasons people ended up in these institutions. Sadly even if you were of another race, culture or even if someone wanted to hide you away they could do so if enough payment could be provided.
I absolutely loved how music played a part in this story. I believe that music does play a huge part on our mental health and it resonates with those that their mind may have wondered. It releases endorphins and gets the mind going. The way that music resonated with the patients was beautiful. I think this is the part of the story that stayed with me because despite the circumstances you see how Vivienne has grown. How she has let God truly let her be the light amongst the dark circumstances. She starts seeing who she really is in God and how he wants to use her.
There is romance in this story as well. It is not the grandiose because its not the complete focus of the story but it was there and it was so perfect. Here is another thing that I absolutely loved and probably because I have read a few of Politano's book but the storyline that is in the book that goes along with characters from her book A Midnight Dance was perfect and what an amazing close to those characters. I will admit I stopped in disbelief when I realized who they were. Again I will not spoil it for you but it was amazing!
This book was beautiful, touching, hard, sad and perfect in every way. I cannot talk it up more if I could give it more than 5 stars I would! If you enjoy her stories you will enjoy this book. If you have never read her books add them to your list!
My Rating: 5 Stars/Absolutely LOVED it!
Favorite Musings/Quotes:
"Perhaps God saw fit to to break down who you were becoming and help you build back up the right way. To prepare you for something greater."
"That light shining out of you is not some sort of magical glow of your own, you know. It's him. It's God in you, and what candle God lights..." "What God has set ablaze , no man can extinguish."
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Joanna Davidson Politano freelances for a small nonfiction publisher but spends much of her time spinning tales that capture the colorful, exquisite details in ordinary lives. Her manuscript for Lady Jayne Disappears was a finalist for several contests, including the 2016 Genesis Award from ACFW, and won the OCW Cascade Award and the Maggie Award for Excellence. She is always on the hunt for random acts of kindness, people willing to share their deepest secrets with a stranger, and hidden stashes of sweets. She lives with her husband and their two babies in a house in the woods near Lake Michigan and shares stories that move her at www.jdpstories.com.
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