by admin | Sep 11, 2020 | Books, Canada, Contemporary Fiction
MY REVIEW:
Tethered is a beautifully written story about finding oneself as well as discovering one’s family roots and making peace with the past. As I read many of the characters and their history seemed quite familiar to me. Took me awhile but I realized that many of them played a major role in an earlier book by this author that I reviewed, Unbound. Once I remembered that, this book took on even more depth to me as I began to connect the dots between characters and situations.
I loved the sense of family and community portrayed in this novel. Although a virtual stranger to everyone in town, Jacqui was accepted and ministered to by so many of them despite her frequent mishaps and mess ups. One hurting man in particular helped her out again and again. The path to his healing and Jaqui’s road to the truth intersected, then reached the same destination.
What a special story with a strong theme of redemption woven through it! I would highly recommend it to those who love a good contemporary romance without all the fluff.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by Just Read Tours. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Perfectionistic librarian Jacqui Penn is ripped up by the roots when she’s dumped by her longtime boyfriend. Rootless and on the run, she is drawn two thousand miles west across Canada to the last place she ever thought could offer stability—the old homestead where her father grew up.Renovating the derelict house soon becomes a personal battle as it stubbornly resists her efforts. While Jacqui struggles to renew the home, she spends time with the family Pops bitterly resented. Her hunger for roots grows stronger as she fights to discover the long-buried reasons her father fled the house as a beleaguered teen. But will she ever find the belonging she craves?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
In a fit of optimism at age eleven, Eleanor Bertin began her first novel by numbering a stack of 100 pages. Two of them got filled.
Eleanor holds a college diploma in Communications and worked in agriculture journalism until the birth of her first child. The family eventually grew to include seven children, all girls except six. Writing was crowded out by homeschooling a houseful for 25 years until Lifelines, her first completed novel, was shortlisted in the 2015 Word Alive Free Publishing Contest.
Eleanor and her husband live with their youngest son, who has Down syndrome, amidst the ongoing renovation of a century home in central Alberta. She blogs about a sometimes elusive contentment at jewelofcontentment.wordpress.com
by admin | Sep 13, 2019 | Books, Canada, Contemporary Fiction
MY REVIEW:
Unbound is a contemporary story that roughly retells the Biblical story of Ruth and Naomi. I say roughly because it loosely follows the theme of the story without trying to replicate it in a modern setting. A powerful tale of loss and grief and trying to survive against overwhelming odds when everything in life has changed instantly, this book explores a strong relationship between a young woman and her mother-in-law.
I honestly was not sure I would like this book but I easily grew to care for both Ruthie and Naomi. I liked the natural way the author depicted their relationship with all the ups and downs, even their disagreements. The story was poignant at times yet had moments of joy, forgiveness, restoration, and reconciliation. Most of all it illustrated how the Lord was working behind the scenes even when unexpected. Like other reviewers, I hope there will be a sequel to this novel because I would love to see how life turns out for these brave women.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by Just Read Tours. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
by admin | Jun 25, 2019 | Books, Canada, England, Historical
MY REVIEW:
I have had the opportunity to read and review several books over the past few years that featured unfortunate children who were poor and/or orphaned and became victims of unscrupulous organizations who exploited them in the name of charity. I was familiar with the Orphan Trains as well as the infamous Georgia Tann and her Tennessee Children’s Home. I was not aware of the thousands of British children who in a similar manner were shipped to Canada and a new life there.
Carrie Turansky’s No Ocean Too Wide features a family who became caught up in the system from which there seemed to be no escape. When Laura’s mother became gravely ill and hospitalized, her younger siblings were taken to an orphan’s home, then quickly sent to Canada despite Laura’s desperate attempts to bring them home.
No Ocean Too Wide is the riveting tale of one young woman’s brave journey to find and bring home the sisters and brother she loves even when all seemed hopeless. Helped by a young lawyer who was sent to research the orphan homes, they discover just how unethical the system has become. I was heartbroken at the treatment of the McAlister family and angry that something like this could be allowed to happen over and over again. The author brought the story to life with each page and I found myself holding my breath at crucial points, hoping for a positive resolution.
Vivid imagery and strong characterization along with an unexpected twist or two made this book difficult to put down. A compelling Christian thread was woven deftly throughout which offered encouragement and hope to a dark, hopeless narrative. A bit of romance also added a bit of hope and light. A very well-researched novel, No Ocean Too Wide is a must read for those who love historical fiction. This book will definitely be added to my keeper shelf.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Between the years of 1869 to 1939 more than 100,000 poor British children were sent across the ocean to Canada with the promise of a better life. Those who took them in to work as farm laborers or household servants were told they were orphans–but was that the truth?
After the tragic loss of their father, the McAlister family is living at the edge of the poorhouse in London in 1908, leaving their mother to scrape by for her three younger children, while oldest daughter, Laura, works on a large estate more than an hour away. When Edna McAlister falls gravely ill and is hospitalized, twins Katie and Garth and eight-year-old Grace are forced into an orphans’ home before Laura is notified about her family’s unfortunate turn of events in London. With hundreds of British children sent on ships to Canada, whether truly orphans or not, Laura knows she must act quickly. But finding her siblings and taking care of her family may cost her everything.
Andrew Fraser, a wealthy young British lawyer and heir to the estate where Laura is in service, discovers that this common practice of finding new homes for penniless children might not be all that it seems. Together Laura and Andrew form an unlikely partnership. Will they arrive in time? Will their friendship blossom into something more?
Inspired by true events, this moving novel follows Laura as she seeks to reunite her family and her siblings who, in their darkest hours, must cling to the words from Isaiah: “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God”.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Bestselling Inspirational Romance Author Carrie Turansky writes historical and contemporary novels and novellas set in England and the US. She has won the ACFW Carol Award, the Holt Medallion, and the International Digital Award. Readers say her stories are: “Heartwarming and inspiring! I couldn’t put it down!” . . . “Touching love story. It captured me from the first page! Rich characters, beautifully written” . . . “My new favorite author!” Visit her website and sign up for her email newsletter at Carrie Turansky.com. Follow Carrie on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram.
by admin | Apr 7, 2019 | Books, Canada, Historical
MY REVIEW:
Between Two Shores is a beautifully written book that has obviously been very well researched. The story details life in Montreal during the mid-1700s especially the war between the British and French and the manipulation of the native tribes to help their sides. Catherine Duval feels caught in the middle. Daughter of a French father and Mohawk mother and in love with a British man her loyalty is pulled in every direction.
The author vividly describes the hardships of the times including starving armies who force civilians to harvest food to feed them at great cost to their own families. The narrative describes a harrowing adventure that has very little to recommend it other than the fierce loyalty between Catherine and her sister and brother. I hated the way Catherine was deceived and used by people she should have been able to trust. This is definitely not a feel-good story with a sweet romance but is what seems to be a true representation of the horror of life during that time. Unexpected twists and turns pop up around every corner which helps keep the story interesting.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Bethany House. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
She Has Always Moved Between Worlds,
But Now She Must Choose a Side
The daughter of a Mohawk mother and French father in 1759 Montreal, Catherine Duval would rather remain neutral in a world tearing itself apart. Content to trade with both the French and the British, Catherine is pulled into the Seven Years’ War against her wishes when her British ex-fiancé, Samuel Crane, is taken prisoner by her father. Samuel claims he has information that could help end the war, and he asks Catherine to help him escape.
Peace appeals to Catherine, even if helping the man who broke her heart does not. But New France is starving, and she and her loved ones may not survive another winter of conflict-induced famine. When the dangers of war arrive on her doorstep, Catherine and Samuel flee by river toward the epicenter of the battle between England and France. She and Samuel may impact history, but she fears the ultimate cost will be higher than she can bear.
Read an excerpt here.
Purchase a copy here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Photo Credit: © Double-Wide Design
Jocelyn Green inspires faith and courage as the award-winning and bestselling author of numerous fiction and nonfiction books, including The Mark of the King, Wedded to War, and The 5 Love Languages Military Edition, which she coauthored with bestselling author Dr. Gary Chapman. Her books have garnered starred reviews from Booklist and Publishers Weekly, and have been honored with the Christy Award, the gold medal from the Military Writers Society of America, and the Golden Scroll Award from the Advanced Writers & Speakers Association. She graduated from Taylor University in Upland, Indiana, with a BA in English, concentration in writing. Jocelyn lives with her husband, Rob, and two children in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Visit her at www.jocelyngreen.com.
Other Books by Jocelyn Green:
by admin | Jun 7, 2017 | Books, Canada, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“On Love’s Gentle Shore” is the third and final book in Liz Johnson’s Prince Edward Island Dreams series. I have been privileged to read and review each of the books and loved them all. It would be difficult to choose which one I enjoyed the most but if I had to choose I would probably choose this one. There is just something about stories about the reunion of past love. And no, I don’t think that is a spoiler. All of us who have read numerous romance novels know how a book will usually end. It’s the pages in between the beginning and the end and how it all comes about that keeps us reading. Natalie and Justin getting back together is a given but how it all transpires is the mystery. And what a story it is!
Fifteen long years of hurt feelings and misunderstandings stand between Natalie and Justin. Natalie was content with her life in Nashville and never planned to return to Prince Edward Island but somehow found herself agreeing to having her wedding in her hometown. Her fiance books an entire summer at the Red Door Inn so they can plan and facilitate the wedding. When the inevitable happens and Natalie and Justin can no longer avoid each other, each must come to grips with their past and find healing (and love).
This was a beautiful story and I was rooting for Justin from the beginning. It was easy for me to see that Russell was absolutely not the right man for Natalie. I really found it difficult to like him at all. He was way too self-centered from the beginning – love himself way more than he loved Natalie.
Liz Johnson writes so naturally that the entire story flowed. It was almost impossible for me to put the book down to take care of mundane tasks. I didn’t want to miss a minute of the story but of course the end came much too quickly. One of these days I may be able to learn to slow down and savor a story but there are still so many books to read and my time grows shorter by the day. It is a blessing and a curse that my favorite authors just keep cranking out books. I’ll never catch up but I’ll keep trying!
Loved “On Love’s Gentle Shore” and look forward to whatever Liz Johnson has to offer her readers next.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Fifteen years after she left Prince Edward Island, Natalie O’Ryan had no plans to return. But when her fiancé, music producer Russell Jacobs, books their wedding in her hometown and schedules a summer at Rose’s Red Door Inn, she sets out to put the finishing touches on the perfect wedding. But she can’t possibly prepare for a run-in with Justin Kane–the best friend she left behind all those years ago after promising to stay.
Justin’s never forgotten Natalie or the music career he always dreamed of pursuing. He’d been prepared to follow her off the island until his dad died and he was left to run the family dairy farm. He’s done the best he can with the life that was thrust upon him–but with Natalie back in the picture, he begins to realize just how much joy he’s been missing.
After Natalie’s reception venue falls through, she must scramble to find an alternative, and the only option seems to be a barn on Justin’s property. As they work together to get the dilapidated building ready for the party, Natalie and Justin discover the groundwork for forgiveness–and that there may be more than an old friendship between them.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Liz Johnson is a full-time marketing specialist for a Nashville-based publisher. She has been a freelance writer and editor for several publications, including CBA Retailers+Resources, Christian Fiction Online magazine, and Storytellers Journal. A member of American Christian Fiction Writers, she is the author of several books, including The Kidnapping of Kenzie Thorn (an ACFW Carol Award finalist) and A Star in the Night, which was part of the New York Times and ECPA bestselling A Log Cabin Christmas Collection.
by admin | Sep 24, 2016 | Books, Canada, Dectective, Historical, Mystery
MY REVIEW:
The second installment of McMillan’s Herringford and Watts Mysteries finds Jem married to Ray but it seems that the honeymoon may be over. Oh, they are still in love but pressure from Ray’s long hours at work, not enough money to meet their needs, and Ray’s determination to take care of his sister and nephew has taken its toll. And now that they are married, Ray seems equally determined to protect Jem much to her dismay. Not only that but a new client has upset Merinda’s usual composure.
As in the first novel of the series, I found the dialogue to be witty. The quotations at the beginning of each chapter and the footnotes often added just the right touch, especially the quotations from Benny and Jonathan’s handbook. I personally found them quite eloquent. As other reviewers have mentioned, I liked seeing the personal growth of the primary characters but also sympathized with Ray and Jem’s communication problems. I also found it very natural to have two such good friends with only one of them a believer yet also could see some progress being made in that area.
Then there was the plot. Although not quite as mysterious as the first novel, “A Lesson in Love and Murder” was very action-packed with danger at every corner. The mystery itself was more in the line of proving who was behind the death and destruction that followed the team from Toronto to Chicago. I enjoyed the introduction of Benny the Mounty but felt sorry for Jasper as he watched Merinda’s reaction to Benny.
I thoroughly enjoyed another encounter with those endearing bachelor girls and can’t wait to join them on their next adventure. I love the unique yet somehow old-fashioned approach this author has taken with this series.
A digital copy of this book was provided for review by Howard Books through NetGalley.
I later purchased a print copy.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
From political danger to personal drama, life is about to get explosive…
The legacy of literary icon Sherlock Holmes is alive and well in 1912 Canada, where best friends Merinda Herringford and Jem Watts continue to develop their skills as consulting detectives.
The city of Toronto has been thrown into upheaval by the arrival of radical anarchist Emma Goldman. Amid this political chaos, Benny Citrone of the Royal North-West Mounted Police arrives at Merinda and Jem’s flat, requesting assistance in locating his runaway cousin—a man with a deadly talent.
While Merinda eagerly accepts the case, she finds herself constantly butting heads—and hearts—with Benny. Meanwhile, Jem has her hands full with a husband who is determined to keep her out of harm’s way.
As Merinda and Jem close in on the danger they’ve tracked from Toronto to Chicago, they uncover a sinister plot to assassinate presidential candidate Theodore Roosevelt. Will they be able to save the day and resolve the troubles threatening their future happiness before it’s too late?
Independence, love, and lives are at stake in A Lesson in Love and Murder, the gripping second installment of the Herringford and Watts Mysteries series.
Purchase a copy of “A Lesson in Love and Murder” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Rachel McMillan is a keen history enthusiast and a lifelong bibliophile. When not writing or reading, she can most often be found drinking tea and watching British miniseries. Rachel lives in bustling Toronto, where she works in educational publishing and pursues her passion for art, literature, music, and theater.
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In a fit of optimism at age eleven, Eleanor Bertin (https://www.eleanorbertinauthor.com/) began her first novel by numbering a stack of 100 pages. Two of them got filled. Eleanor holds a college diploma in Communications and worked in agriculture journalism until the birth of her first child. The family eventually grew to include seven children, all girls except six. Writing was crowded out by homeschooling a houseful for 25 years until Lifelines, her first completed novel, was shortlisted in the 2015 Word Alive Free Publishing Contest. Eleanor and her husband live with their youngest son, who has Down syndrome, amidst the ongoing renovation of a century home in central Alberta. She blogs about a sometimes elusive contentment at 
