Thieves of Greatness

 

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Elizabeth is the second daughter of King Henry the VII and unlikely to ever receive the crown or be remembered. Shunned by her family, she feels alone and wishes to be great. Yet, when she starts seeing a flying sailing ship, she begins to worry that she is going insane like her father is rumored to be. When the ship lands atop the palace and the man called Captain invites her aboard, she begins an adventure where animals talk, travels through time, and meets the other children invited on board like King Tut, the boy king of Egypt, Neal Armstrong, an adventurous boy who jumps into everything, and Coaxoch, a shy Aztec princess. But, their adventures are interrupted by someone taking children out of their time and abandoning them. As they race to stop whoever is doing this, the hunters become the hunted and they will have to find a way to send the world's and time's children back to where they belong and find in themselves all they can be.

Author - Emily C. Burger

Publisher - Howling Wolf

Age Group - 12 and up
 
Content - *May Contain Spoilers* Elizabeth decides to go with a man on a sailing ship that flies who she just met. Coaxoch struggles with right and wrong. Each child has to face their fear and doubt to overcome the evil they are facing and use their talents.

Personal Opinion - I've been jumping between rating this book at 3.5 or 4 stars because, while it is good and interesting and the characters are great, there were some questions and concerns I had. The story was really good and engaging, having a Doctor Who feel with the Captain and the Explorer and the strange items aboard the ship as well as picking up people who are fantastic (the biggest difference here is in Doctor Who, the companions are just normal people while each kid in this book is a recognizable figure from history but the sentiment is the same for the people who come along). That is one cool thing, that the every kid is an important person from history, which really shows that, "Every child has the ability to make history," as Captain says, and there are hints of how these children do so while reading this book. Speaking of history, while it was fun seeing  different people from various cultures and historical time periods, I did question the historical accurateness at times. The reader gets to see Elizabeth in her home for several chapters before she meets the Captain yet there were times I thought, "Is that right? I thought it was different." It makes me want to do research. That being said, the issue of accurateness also comes into play with point of view. It seemed it was mostly from Elizabeth's POV yet sometimes the author would seem to speak to the reader director, and then, again in the description, an item would be described by being compared to something else, something Elizabeth would not know anything about because of the time period difference. It made me wonder who was telling this story. There were also several POV changes without a scene break or chapter change that went from one character to another with only the change of a sentence. For the antagonist, I am still not clear is what his motivation and goal was. Lastly, and this is more personal, I would have liked to have seen Elizabeth at home longer at the end of the story, had seen how she changed, especially after how long the beginning was before even before a hint of the flying ship. But, this story was good. It wasn't a, "I have to get back to this right now!" story for me but, when I was reading, I was interested and engaged, enjoyed the various characters, human and animal, and seeing how these historical people before they were famous were brought into the story. I think there is a lot of room for it to become a series and continue on but it also works well for a stand alone. This is a good book, maybe one I would not say, "You have to go buy this," but, if someone was interested in it, I would say good things and support them picking it up. The author, Emily C. Burger, has a great future in writing if she wants to continue and work on it some more. I would keep an eye out for her next book.

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The Golden Braid

"The One Who Needs Rescuing
Isn't Always the One in the Tower."

Bookworm's Ranking - 3.5 Worms

Storyline - When a man asks her to marry him, Rapunzel's mother moves them out of their village and to Hagenheim. Yet, they are attacked on the road and rescued by a brave knight. As Rapunzel and Sir Gerek get to know one another and the truth about her past begins to be revealed, she starts to question everything her mother ever told her and sees a side of her she never expected. But, finding a life she wishes to live might be harder than she thought, especially when her mother is determined to keep her.

Author - Melanie Dickerson

Publisher - Thomas Nelson

Age Group - 16 and up
 
Content - *May Contain Spoilers* Lecherous men throughout the novel. Several fight scenes and some deaths. A crazy, controlling woman obsessed with keeping Rapunzel away from men so she doesn't make the same mistake. Rapunzel learns to trust others and is determined to do the right thing. Uses wit and determination to get herself out of trouble. Gerek uses honor and integrity to help others even at his own risk.

Personal Opinion - While this novel was well written, Rapunzel's realization that not all men are evil and just want to use her, and trying to find life and true love, I had a hard time liking this book. For the second part that I said I like, that not all men are evil and just want to use her, there were a lot of men, almost all besides the main characters, that looked at her or threatened her with attacking her. For trying to make a point about people being good, most did not have good intentions to her except the main guy. It seemed counterproductive. Also, Sir Gerek's annoyance and then its disappearance towards Rapunzel seemed to come out of no where which made it seem unnatural. There were parts of the story that also seemed not to flow well such as the castle being taken over or the mother suddenly waning the man who hurt her back. That whole part seemed out of place until I reached the end and saw it all come together. The mystery of Rapunzel's past is well done and interesting and good how it was brought up and done. *SPOILER* What I liked the most was that he fell in love and gave up wanting to be rich in order to be with the woman he loved. Also his making up with his brother was really nice *END SPOILER*. Those who really like Melanie Dickerson will like The Golden Braid, but there was too much in it that got on my nerves to completely enjoy despite the fact it was well written and a good story. 

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Other Reviews for this Author - The Healers Apprentice - Review
                                                    The Merchant's Daughter - Review
                                                    The Fairest Beauty - Review

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from the publisher through BookLook.

 

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The Looking Glass Wars - Book 1

(Picture from Goodreads)

 

Bookworm's Ranking - 3 Worms
 

Storyline - Alyss is the princess of Wonderland until her family is destroyed by her own aunt, Redd, and she escapes into our world. Yet, no one believes her story. Then Alyss meets the one man who seemed to consider it true and then retells her tale incorrect, not even getting her name right. It seems the only way to survive is to forget. But Wonderland is deteriorating under Redd's control and the rebellious force is struggling to survive. When Alyss is finally found, will she have the strength to take back her throne after years of suppressing the memories?

Author - Frank Beddor

Publisher - Scholastic

Age Group - 15 and up

Content - *May Contain Spoilers* Lots of killing and blood spurting. Some characters search for revenge for what Redd has done. Alyss is determined to remember her true home but has trouble believing when everyone doubts her in our world. The characters are determined to save Wonderland and bring back White Imagination; staying faithful to their cause when things get tough.

Personal Opinion - While this book has an interesting take on the Alice in Wonderland story, I'm afraid I found it long and slow. Alyss's story is fun and the changes were creative from the story we know and the story that is presented here. The story is also heartfelt and makes one think what is right and wrong as it presents the White and Black Imagination that becomes a center of the struggle. Yet, I found the author spent a bit of time and description that wasn't needed and then on instances where I would have liked to see the events happen they were summarized. This made it long. The reader too was irritating sometimes so I can't tell if my dislike for the story was because it was read to me or the story itself. Anyone who really likes the original tale might enjoy this book the most.

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Valiant Hearts Book 1: Dauntless

"Where Legend and History Collide,

One Young Woman Will Fight for the Innocent"

Bookworm's Ranking - 3.5 Worms
 

Storyline - Merry Ellison has lost title, home, and family when her father rebelled against the king of England. Now living in the woods with a band of orphan children, they steal to survive. The only dream she will allow herself to have is to find a safe home for the children to live while she must remain hidden. And not fall in love. Their thievery has been noticed, dubbing them the Ghosts of Farthingale Forest since they are never seen. They are a wanted band. And the first one to catch on to them is Merry's betrothed, Timothy Grey. Fighting between duty and love, Timothy will have to decide to hand over Merry for her crimes or find another way. Yet, unbeknownst to Timothy, someone is out to destroy him. Will Merry find a way to care for the children and welcome love or will choices beyond their control determine their future?

Author - Dina L. Sleiman

Publisher - Baker Publishing Group; Bethany House Publishing

Age Group - 16 and up

Content - *May Contain Spoilers* Merry fears for her honor once. The Ghosts steal in order to survive. Timothy searches to do the right thing by his duty and master yet struggles with the idea of allowing Merry to be hurt. A Lord is described to "love" often. Someone seeks to hurt another.

Personal Opinion - Merry and Timothy's struggles to care for others and find a way in their life drives their decisions and causes conflict between them. Even though they love each other, they believe the other doesn't and both have been hurt enough in their life to be cynical. This bring believability and life to the characters for different reasons. Merry can't see another life for herself because she is wanted by the king and thought dead, leaving the only option to steal to survive and protect innocent lives, believing that is the only way her life can go. Timothy is the ninth child and not going to inherit anything so has to find a place for himself yet morns the loss of the woman he loves. These two have a lot to deal with but are not the only ones. The rest of the cast are developed into players themselves with wants, desires, and struggles themselves, such as one of the Ghosts in love with Merry and leaning on God for direction and a man in the castle jealous of Timothy and plans on destroying him. While all this character development was good and interesting, I expected a little more action because the story is based off Robin Hood. The story is good, just would have liked more action sooner in the story.

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Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from the publisher through Bethany House.

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52 Little Lessons from Les Miserables

"There is One Spectacle Greater than the Sea:
That is the Sky;
There is One Spectacle Greater than the Sky:
That is the Interior of the Soul."

 

Bookworm's Ranking - 4.5 Worms

 

About - Author Bob Welch takes readers on a journey through the popular book, beloved musical, and famous movie, Les Miserables and examines some of the deeper lessons it shares. From sacrifice to loving your enemies, 52 Little Lessons from Les Miserables compare God's word with this Victor Hugo tale and how it calls readers to live a better life and see others as God sees them. The poor can teach us more than one might think.

Author - Bob Welch

Publisher - Thomas Nelson

Age Group - 15 and up

Personal Opinion - Wow, what a great book. A perfect devotional-type book that takes the story of Les Mis and examines lessons and examples that we can take and learn from for our own lives. Each chapter begins with a quote and summary before leading into what Jesus has taught us and/or personal experiences. It made me think of my own life and how I treat or react to others and what I could do to change. One chapter I am still debating over on some of its points but I was very happy with the whole book. A read for those who love Les Mis or using books/movies/popular culture as examples to dig deeper into their faith.

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Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from the publisher through BookLook.

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Frame 232 and Author Interview

 

Bookworm's Ranking - 3 Worms

 

Storyline - When Sheila Baker buried her mother, she did not expect to be left with answers to an historic mystery. But she was. A tape, taken on November 22, 1963, reveals that not only was her mother at the Kennedy Assassination and is the Babushka Lady, but confirms what conspiracy theorists have been saying for years. There was a second shooter. Not knowing what to do with the tape and fearing the government, Sheila contacts a man, Jason Hammond, who has made himself famous for uncovering historic mysteries but is also struggling with ghosts of his own. As they set out to discover who the man was and what was behind it, they must also out run a killer set on their trail to solve one of the biggest mysteries of the century.

Author - Wil Mara

Publisher - Tyndale Publishers

Age Group - 16 and up

Content - *May Contain Spoilers* The assassination was a bit grizzly in description. A pretty violent, and creepy, man is after them. A hooker is mentioned briefly. The two main character, Sheila and Hammond, won't let fear or the people after them stop them from finding the truth.

Personal Opinion - This novel is extremely factual on the assassination as well as in depth in the mystery and characters. Each character was developed to realism with believable backstories and feelings. Not knowing much of the Kennedy Assassination, I learned a lot more than I knew before. One particular part of the novel was an action scene were there was two or three paragraphs from one person's perspective before jumping to another (the bad guy's) perspective. This was a new technique for me and it made the action that much more exciting. But, this book had at least one pit fall that made it difficult for me which was how detailed the backstories got. Not that it was a bad thing but the story was kept from moving forward until some backstory of a character or the historical events, which would sometimes take several pages. This made it read slowly to me and the mystery was only being touched shortly before the halfway point of the novel. I am hope that, since this was the first book about Jason Hammond and his historic mysteries that the backstories won't be as detailed in the future or, at least, written in a more interesting way. I will probably give the next book a try.

Video -

 

 

Author Interview -

I would like to thank Tyndale for providing this interview with Wil Mara and giving some interesting background to this novel.

 



1. What inspired you to write a novel around the assassination of President John F. Kennedy? I have always been fascinated by the assassination, which, obviously, was one of the most pivotal and enigmatic events in American history. And when I heard about the ‘Babushka Lady’---one of the few people in Dealey Plaza that day who remains unidentified---and the possibility that she may have filmed the shooting, an idea came to mind that seemed too good to disregard.

2. How much research did you do for this project? An unbelievable amount. I spoke with assassination experts, read literally hundreds and books and articles, pored over countless photos...you name it. My goal was to write a fictional story around the established facts rather than alter the facts to serve the story. Thus, I had to know pretty much everything. I ended up loading my brain with more data than I really needed...but I didn’t mind.

3. How has your research informed your own theory of what happened during the JFK assassination? My personal theory, prosaic though it may be, is that Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. If you want to be convinced, get your hands on a fairly rare book called Lee, which was written by his brother, Robert. Once you understand the mind behind the eyes that looked through that rifle scope, you will be convinced.

4. What role does your Christian faith play in your writing? It is embedded throughout this story, in a fashion both subtle and direct. I was raised Christian and have been a firm believer all my life, so my belief system is threaded into just about everything I do. Anyone who carries even the most fundamental faith will recognize the important elements in this book. The most obvious example belongs to the main character, who recurs throughout the series---he is suffering a deep crisis of faith, and the core of that crisis should be familiar to even the most devout follower. We are human, plain and simple, and as such we experience doubts about the Lord in our lifetime. So it won’t be hard for anyone to connect with him.

5. What lessons do you hope readers will come away with after reading Frame 232?
I can’t interpret the story for anyone but myself, but there are a few themes at work that strike me as particularly valuable. One is that God’s path is always the right one in the end, even if it seems unimaginably rocky at times. Another is that tragedies occur in every life, that these misfortunes usually happen for a reason, and that the reason may not be apparent for some time. A third is that we need to treasure our loved ones for as long as we have them around, because they can disappear in a heartbeat. Also, it’s important to keep getting out of bed and moving forward every day because life is a gift, and God does not favor those who waste their time and talents. If you are blessed with ability and resources (and Jason has plenty of both), you should use them.

6. What do you have planned for your future Jason Hammond books?
Jason will be tackling other high-profile (and, later on, some lesser-known) mysteries as the series progresses. Readers will also get to follow his ongoing struggles as he rebuilds his faith and gradually assembles his ‘new normal.’ Plus, we’ll further explore the lives of those around him (including a budding love interest, who will appear in the second book). It’s also worth noting that not every book in the series will follow a strictly linear chronology. The one I’m writing now, for example(The Nevada Testament) begins about six weeks after Frame 232. The one I’ll write after that, however (Gardner Island), occurs before the events of Frame

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Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from the Tyndale Blogger Network.

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So Shines the Night & Mini Author Interview with Giveaway

"On an Island Teetering

at the Brink of Anarchy,

Daria Finds Hope

Among People of The Way."

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline -Daria is without home or employment. Chased from Rhodes, she has little choice but to accept the offer of a strange, yet charming, man, Lucas, to go to Ephesus and be his Persian tutor. But his demeanor changes upon their arrival to the city and she sees there is something dark stirring inside him. Slowly, she begins to uncover the mysteries of his wife's death and his need for vengeance, but ghosts from her past has followed her to Ephesus. As the city struggles with fraction with sorcerers, being faithful to the goddess Artemis, and the new fraction of believers of One God who call themselves Christians lead by a man named Paul, both Daria and Lucas will have to choose their way. But darkness is on their heels, waiting to take not only their souls, but lives as well.

Author - Tracy Higley

Publisher - Thomas Nelson

Age Group - 16 or 17 and up

Content - *May Contain Spoilers* The characters regularly run across Sorcerers and one tries magic. Lucas is filled with guilt and the desire for revenge but slowly sees the error of his ways. Daria tries to use her mind to make decisions but grows in relying on God after she meets the Christians. Paul and the other Christians speak of God's love and desire for everyone to turn to Him.

Personal Opinion -While twists and turns travel through this novel in the plot and the characters, Tracy Higley draws beautiful messages of God's love for us into its core. Daria and Lucas were true to life characters with genuine struggles. The plot was detailed and complex, a danger to an unskilled author but Tracy pulls it all together with no loop holes. Beginning the book in Rhodes was fun because that was were the last book of Tracy's I read left off. It kinda brought the two together yet this book still can be read as a stand alone. I didn't see many of the plot twists coming and, despite its length, never bored with bits of new information given at perfect intervals to keep me interested and coming to understand better what was haunting Lucas and Daria. My favorite part was how much was got to know and spend time with Paul and the Christians. It made the changes in Lucas and Daria more believable because I got to see how their lives slowly change because of what they were learning. The book is a bit dark at times but that is because of the sorcerer subject matter, which is never detailed by is still creepy (at least for me). Tracy's books always do a great job in creating 3D characters and engage plots and So Shines the Night is no exception.

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Mini Author Interview - As part of the Caravan blog tour, I was able to ask Tracy some questions. Enjoy!

What made you interested in writing ancient history fiction?
I’m not sure! It evolved in my mind, and I suppose it was the tie-in to biblical history, to the time period which informed my faith and held so many stories I already knew and loved. But I’ve never been content to look at Scripture through the single historical lens of the Judea. I’ve always wanted to see the Old and New Testament periods through the eyes of the world outside the Jewish people, from the pagan perspective.
 
How do you do your research?
It’s a multi-tiered approach, with very basic research at first (sometimes even juvenile non-fiction), to get a high-level view, then going deeper into the specific days/years I’ll be writing about, and then getting a broad view of the daily life and culture through dusty textbooks. All of this goes into my “notebook” and inspires specific plots and scenes. As I am actually writing the first draft, I often leave placeholders where more specific research is needed, like an XX where a number or detail should go. At the end, I go back and find all those placeholders and research the details, often online where it’s much easier to search for very specific information.  

Can you share anything about your future projects?
The best way to get a sense of what I’m working on now would be to visit this page: http://tracyhigley.com/books/work-in-progress/  Although, don’t hold me to all those thoughts about the book I haven’t started yet – who knows where that will go!

Make sure to enter the giveaway Tracy is hosting during the blog tour by going here. Be sure to enter my giveaway too at the bottom of this review.

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Links - Petra: City in Stone - Review
            Isle of Shadows - Review

Giveaway - Enter to win not on So Shines the Night but Isle of Shadows too!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

CHECK OUT TRACY'S GIVEAWAY TOO! 

READ THROUGH THE MINI AUTHOR INTERVIEW TO FIND THE LINK! 

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from the publisher through Booksneeze.com.

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Chasing Jupiter

"When the World Around You Falls Apart,

Dreams are all You Have."

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - It is the 1960s, man has launched into space and walked on the moon and Scarlett is having trouble fitting in with her strange brother, Cliff, and awkward grandfather which causes people to stair and whisper. A loner at school and stressed from her parents fights and her sister lies, Scarlett does what she can to take care of the house and her brother. But when he brother requests her help in building a rocket to Jupiter, she can't disappoint him. Making her specialty, peach pies, and with the help of the perch farmer's son, Frank, Scarlett and Cliff sell the pies to earn money for their rocket. As the summer progresses, Scarlett's family is falling more and more apart. And then a tragedy shakes her world. Seeing no hope, Scarlett will have to make the decide if she will trust the God she has ignored and find peace.

Author - Rachel Coker

Publisher - Zondervan

Age Group - 15 and up

Content - *May Contain Spoilers* Scarlett's sister goes out all night with a hippie boy friend and is clear that she is not making good decisions but the book doesn't go into detail on what she is doing. Scarlett is taught about God and His love and faithfulness. Scarlett tries to do the best by her family and on occasion stumbles.  

Personal Opinion - Chasing Jupiter is one of the most moving books I have ever read. I might not be completely fond of the ending but it speaks on a level of trusting in God's love and His purpose, even when you can't see it. It also speaks on loving others, not judging someone just because they are different, and helping your family. I think a lot of people can identify with the broken family aspect even if the novel is placed in the 1960s. There were several points where this book had me bawling but it ends with hope and trusting in God. Even though I felt that the novel could have gone deeper with some of the side characters by spending more time with them and the ending isn't my favorite, I will be looking into more books by this author who is incredibly talented in story telling and character creation.

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Becoming More Like You

Book Nook 4 You

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Christian Book Review Blog

CTF Devourer

Gillian Adams

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Jill Williamson

Labor Not in Vain

Rachelle Rea

The Ramblings of a Young Author

A Slightly Nerdy Bookworm

Shadow Writer World

Surrendering All of Me

Worthy2Read

Team Novel Teen is a group of bloggers dedicated to spreading the word about clean teen fiction. Check out other posts about Chasing Jupiter by Rachel Coker by clicking on the links above, and check out www.NovelTeen.com for more information about Team Novel Teen.

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Links - Rachel's Website
            Talking about Chasing Jupiter

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from the publisher/author through Team Novel Teen.

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The Fairest Beauty

"A Daring Rescue.

A Difficult Choice."

Bookworm's Ranking - 3.5 Worms

Storyline - Sophie has always lived a simple but tortured life, working as a scullery maid, for Duchess Ermengarde. When a strange young man, Gabe, arrives, telling her she is truly the dead Duke's daughter and betrothed to his older brother, she can't help but want to believe it. But the Duchess has plans for Sophie's death. Soon, Sophie and Gabe are on the run and hiding at the Cottage of the Seven. As they hide, they can't help but fall in love with each other. Can Sophie and Gabe find a way to be together despite her being promised to another? Can they both find the plans God has for them?

Author - Melanie Dickerson

Publisher - Zondervan

Age Group - 15 and up

Content - *May Contain Spoilers* Sophie is kind and giving and is learning to trust after being betrayed and lied to all her life. Gabe is rebellious but an event in his past that causes him guilt which contributes. He is also learning to be responsible and learning what his actions cost him. Both are going against their betrothals. Duchess Ermengarde is just a bit creepy, wanting to kill Sophie and happy about the idea of her dying. The Seven are open but one doesn't mind facing the issue at hand and trying to have Sophie and Gabe see it the problems of their relationship.

Personal Opinion - The Fairest Beauty was a story of love, adventure, and overcoming obstacles. The action scenes were really good and exciting. Sophie was sweet and helped others however she could and Gabe's rebelliousness reminded me of Han Solo in the original Star Wars film. I also liked how each of the Seven had a distinct thing about him that made him easy to remember and spot. But there were a couple of things I was not very fond of. Gabe was very rebellious in the beginning but then had a quick change of heart, almost too quick for me but I think it would have been a bit more believable if some information about his past had been hinted at earlier. I had also thought there would be more information on the personal stories of the Seven but there wasn't much of that. Most of the time, Sophie or Gabe was wondering about their feelings or how they were going to be together which was fine but I felt it happened a little too much (then again, it might just be my action side talking). All in all, The Fairest Beauty was good but not my favorite. If someone really wants to read it, they should because they might really like it.

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Special Notes - The Healer's Apprentice - Review
                         The Merchant's Daughter - Review

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from the publisher.

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Saint Francis and the Nativity

"At that Moment

Brother Francis Laid a Figure of 

Baby Jesus in the Manger Bed."

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms
 

Storyline - Mario is a shepherd and loves animals which builds a friendship with Brother Francis. One day, Brother Francis tells Mario about how Jesus was born. Wishing to tell others about the great deed of Jesus being born in a stable, Brother Francis and Mario recreate that night in a cave with live animals for others to come and see, creating one of the most beloved decorations of today.

Author - Myrna A. Strasser

Illustrator -  Fausto Bianchi

Publisher - Zonderkids

Age Group - 6 and up

Content - *May Contain Spoilers* Mario comes to learn about Jesus through Brother Francis and comparing things he does for his sheep to what Jesus does for him. Brother Francis wants others to understand God's love.

Personal Opinion - What a great depiction of the beginning of one of the most popular traditions/decorations for Christmas, The Nativity Scene. The pictures were like stained glass and eye catching. Coming to know Jesus's love as Mario learned it and sharing it while assisting St. Francis was beautiful. St. Francis is one of my favorite saints so I love the fact that he started this tradition. This is a book I will have to share with my nephews soon. Suggestions at the end of the book to do with the family to acknowledge and understand the nativity scene were great and there are at least two I want to try. Would recommend this highly and it will sit on my shelf and be shared in years to come.

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Special Notes - There is also a book by the same author about the song Silent Night.

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Isle of Shadows

"Enslaved in a World

of Money and Power,

Tessa Dares to be Free."

Bookworm's Ranking - 4.5 Worms

Storyline - Tessa is a hetaera, a woman who is allowed and trained to accompany men to parties and entertain. But Tessa knows she is truly a slave to her master, Glaucas, and sees her only chance at freedom is through her death at the feet of Helios, the statue of the god in the harbor. But, when an accident causes Glaucas's death, she sees a chance to live and gain her freedom from men's uses of her. With the help of a Jewish servant, Simeon, and a mysterious man, Nikos, who is not like any man she has ever met, Tessa sets out to hid the death and escape Rhodes. But, a member of the government, Spiro, has a mind to over throw Rhodes democratic system and become king, even if it means taking a few lives to achieve it. His plan puts Tessa's arrangements in jeopardy and could seal her fate to continue in her painful life. The ground is shifting and things are about to fall in ways no one foresaw.

Author - Tracy L. Higley

Publisher - Thomas Nelson

Age Group - 17 and up

Content - *May Contain Spoilers* Tessa is a hetaera and is often lusted after by man. Life has disappointed so much, Tessa wishes to feel nothing at all but learns of God's love and forgiveness. Nikos is an honorable man who respects women and does everything in his power to protect Tessa. Simeon is just awesome. Some men are creepy, lusting after women and others but nothing is detailed.

Personal Opinion - One of the most engaging books I have read this year. Isle of Shadows is a re-publication of Shadow of Colossus which completely took me back in time to Rhodes just before the earthquake that would topple the statue of Helios. Each character was wonderfully developed and grown throughout the novel (in the note at the end, the author mentions that she did a lot of editing before re-releasing this book and she did a fabulous job). Action, romance, suspense, and an engaging story filled these pages. One thing that I wish had been done differently was more of a build up before Tessa found God. It just seemed to quick for how few times she had been introduced to Him during the novel. But, loved the Seder Meal incorporated in the story. It made me think of the times I participated in them at my church. The stuff about redemption was great too. Highly recommend this book if you like ancient history, Christian fiction, and action/romance novels with wonderful storylines and terrific characters.

Read the "Story Behind the Story... And Beyond" at the end of the book, too. It has some great and quick facts of Rhodes and the statue as well as how Tracy Higley came to write the story.

Buy - Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Publisher

Links - Tracy Higley's website
             Petra: City in Stone - Review

Special Notes - Previously published as Shadow of Colossus

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from the publisher through Booksneeze.com.

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Imagination Station: Peril in the Palace

"Danger Reaches New Heights!"

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

 

Storyline - Cousins Beth and Patrick are off on another adventure to help Mr. Whittaker save a family member in the middle ages. This time they must obtain a golden tablet from Kublai Kahn, emperor of China. As they face Mongols, a Chinese Emperor, Shamans, and meet Marco Polo, the must not be afraid to tell of their God and use their wit and knowledge to achieve their goal and get out of there. Before they are stuck for good.

Authors - Marianne Hering and Paul McCusker

Publisher - Tyndale Publishers

Age Group - 8 and up

Content - *May Contain Spoilers* The cousins are met with challenges of their faith and mission but they don't let it daunt them or keep them from what they need to do. They do not shy away from their faith but speak honestly.

Personal Opinion - Since this book isn't meant for my age group (which I was aware of before starting it), I was able to read it within 45 minutes - 1 hour, but it was a good hour. Well developed in all aspects, this book is great for elementary kids who want to have a little history, adventure, and Jesus in their books. My only complaint is that a couple of parts could have been developed a little more but considering the age range appropriate for this book it might have only confused or lost the reader. Still, I'm completely happy with this book and would love to share it with someone in the correct age group for the book.

Since this book isn't meant for my age group (which I was aware of before starting it), I was able to read it within 45 minutes - 1 hour, but it was a good hour. Well develped in all aspects, this book is great for elementary kids who want to have a little history, adventure, and Jesus in there books. My only complaint is that a couple of parts could have been developed a little more but considering the age range appropriate for this book it might have only confused or lost the re

Buy -Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Publisher, Focus on the Family,
Links - Learn more about the books and authors here. There are also so extra stuff on the site such as a devotional.

Special Notes - This is Book 3 in The Imagination Station books.

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The Last Temple and GIVEAWAY

"The Beast is Dead,
Yet Lives On."

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Vitas is able to leave is slave disguise behind and continue his quest in conquer Nero, the man who threatened his wife and lead him to his current predicament. Unrest and rebellion is happening in Jerusalem, causing Roma to take up arms against the city. Can Vitas understand the Revelation the disciple John left him and come to the Christos who his wife serves so faithfully? Can he save the Temple from destruction by Roman hands?
Author - Hank Hanegraaff and Sigmund Brouwer
Publisher - Tyndale House Publishers
Age Group - 17 and up

Content - *May Contain Spoilers* Nero is a creep and gave me the shivers just mentioning some of the stuff he did. Something gross was mentioned almost every time he was (that is all I can say if I want to keep this blog post PG-13). Vitas had much hate for Nero because of what he tried to do to his wife so Vitas carries desires for revenge with him. Many spoke of God and the new Christians, giving advice when needed. Vitas yearns to have the faith of those people. Many are invited to comit suicide instead of being executed. Vitas tries to do the honorable thing in all situations and is faithful and loyal to those he loves.
Personal Opinion - Before reading this book, I had heard only two interpretations of the Book of Revelation. The dominate one I heard was the end of the world for us and it hadn't happened and the Left Behind movie (I also heard Catholics don't believe in the Rapture theory so I never thought about that one much). I had also heard that there was a theory that Revelation was about the 2nd fall of the Temple. I didn't know much about that event so I just listened and had no idea what I thought, founding Revelation confusing but willing to hear the theories. After this book, I might be more inclined to the Revelation prophesying the fall of Jerusalem but will still study the different ideas.

Now about the book. The story really pulled me in. Vitas was a sympathetic, honorable hero that I just connected to. He, as well as all the other characters, was well developed and realistic. The building of the story as also good, slowly working up to the exciting, action parts and mystery unfolding just enough to keep the reader wondering what was going to happen. There were times I got confused and didn't understand all the connections but the intricacy kept me involved. I was almost not happy with the ending. The action went really close to the final page and I thought there wouldn't be enough time for a wrap-up. But, it was done beautiful and left with some hope for the characters in the future.

Video -

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Links - Learn more about the books and authors here.

Special Notes - This is Book 3 in a series.
                          Book 1, The Last Disciple, Review - Coming Soon
                          Book 2, The Last Sacrifice, Review - Coming Soon

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from the Tyndale Blogger Network.
GIVEAWAY - Courtesy of the publisher, I receive a certificate to give to one blessed winner to receive a copy of The Last Temple by either go to their local Christian retailer with the certificate to redeem or sending to Tyndale where they will mail the book. This giveaway is only open for a week because the certificate expires on October 1, 2012 so I want to get this to the winner as soon as possible. The winner has 24 hours to respond to the email I send out announcing that they won before choosing a new winner if I don't hear back from them. Enter using the Raflecopter below and please read the Terms and Use before entering. Good luck to all who enter and make sure you chew on a good book today. :)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Wild Orchid

"Once Upon a Time" is Timeless

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Mulan has only ever wanted to please the father she never knew, the mother so doesn't even know the name of, and to be free to fallow her heart. When one of her wishes come true and finally meets her father, her world forever changes. But just when she is finally getting the chance to know him, the Huns have returned to China and her crippled father is called by the Emperor to fight. Mulan cannot risk loosing him, her only family, again, so she does the only thing she can do to save him. She goes in his place.

Author - Cameron Dokey

Publisher - Simon Pulse

Age Group - 14 and up
Content - *May Contain Spoilers* Mulan and her friends want to be themselves and do what they wish, but are willing to lay that aside to honor their families. Lies to get into the army. Loves her family and friends and wants to help them and take care of them. Prays once or twice to the gods of China.
Personal Opinion - Wild Orchid, a retelling of the Ballad of Mulan, had me hooked every page and couldn't wait to see what happened next. There was a poetic feel to the writing of the story, especially when Mulan was giving some wisdom she learned. It was a light read but the traditions of China were brought in nicely where I got to see the what was appropriate for girls and boys of the time and Mulan's struggle with what she wanted and honoring her family with doing what was expected of her. It did take a while for the story to get to Mulan pretending to be a boy in the emperor's army but the events leading up to it brought me into her struggles of her life. The bad thing about how long it took her going into the army was that the battle and romance happened a little fast. Some author's spend a long time in battle scenes which I don't always like, but this one felt too short because the emphasis of the story of Mulan is that she pretended to be a boy and saved China. Also, she fell in love quickly with her guy but I only got a short time to get to know him. Never read the Ballad of Mulan so I don't know if this is accurate to the original poem or not. The only other thing I had wanted was a pronunciation guide for the Chinese names because I'm sure I slaughtered many of them. But the romance, intrigue, characters, and emotions of the story were wonderful and I will be reading more books by this author.  

Buy - Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Publisher,

Links - Learn more about the books and authors here.
Special Notes - The Storyteller's Daughter by Cameron Dokey Review

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Merlin's Immortals: The Orphan King

"The Future of the Immortals

is in the Hands of an Orphan."

Bookworm's Ranking - 4 Worms

Storyline - Thomas has spent most of his life with the only person he has ever loved, a woman named Sarah, or monks who worked him hard. But he knows he is destined for other things and escapes. After freeing a knight, a silent girl, and a grinning pickpocket from hanging, he sets off to reclaim the castle Magnus from an evil tyrant. But there is more to the knight than meets the eye. A long time conflict is just beginning to rise up again. And, unawares, Thomas is in the middle of it.
Author - Sigmund Brouwer

Publisher - WaterBrook Press
Age Group - 15 and up
Content - *May Contain Spoilers* Thomas does trickery to get what he wants and threatens some monks who have raised him yet abused and used him. The monks are greedy and do things against the church and wish to keep it hidden from others. The church and its people are shown as those who make their own choices instead of the Catholic church being corrupt. William protects those around him. Characters look to God for help but Thomas wishes to ignore Him, which seems to be changing by the end. Thomas respects women and tries to defend them.

Personal Opinion - Sigmund Brouwer created an interesting book with an array of different
characters, a honorable knight, a determined orphan, a giddy pickpocket, and a shadowy girl, while playing with history and hinting to some fantasy. It had good action/adventure and some building of a deeper mystery that is still hidden. That might be my biggest thing about this book, I wish it had built more on what was the series was about and Druids and Immortals. I got some hints but wish there had been more. How Catholicism was handled was something I appreciate being a Catholic because I have read books where it seems it is spoken of in general terms and that religion is corrupt or hypocrites instead of just being people's own choices and not living the faith they profess. They may not be how other authors mean to portray it but it just feels like that sometimes. This book didn't do that in my opinion. Only once did it seemed something was said in a general term but, at the end of the book, the human choice aspect still there. I am looking forward to what happens next and will defiantly be getting book 2, there is a lot of promise for some action and mystery to abound. Can't wait!

Buy - Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Publisher

Special Notes - There is a cool PODCAST interview here that gives some background information of the series and his writing.
Book 2 coming out 2013.

Disclaimer - In exchange for an honest review, I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.


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