Tuesday, December 29, 2015

Until the Dawn (Until the Dawn, #1)

Until the Dawn was an interesting, refreshing read. It wasn't quite as captivating as some other books I've read, but it was interesting and a good read nonetheless. Sophie is a girl who has gone through some struggles, but still remains a positive, God-believing woman who only wants to help others and feel needed. Quentin, on the other hand, is initially a negative, rude atheist who desperately loves his son and wants to feel loved by his son. However, as time disintegrates for Quentin, his urgency to raise his son ends up being counterproductive and ruining the relationship repeatedly.

It was interesting to watch the two opposite characters interact and slowly change each other for the better. I liked the mystery and history behind the estate which the two attempt to save, as well as the background behind each of the characters. The end was a bit surprising; I'm not sure I saw it coming in the way that it did.

Overall, it was a good book and I would recommend it. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for this review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Citrus: Sweet and Savory Sun-Kissed Recipes

I'll be the first to admit that I don't do much cooking, but I can honestly say that despite my inexperience I would feel pretty comfortable attempting the recipes in this book. After a brief introduction, the author shares many great tasting recipes. Each recipe has a list of ingredients, as well as detailed instructions on how to make it. Additionally, each one has a beautiful picture of the end result, which was super helpful to me to see how it is supposed to turn out, as well as tempt me to try it.

I liked that there was a section that went over specific types of certain fruits, such as oranges and apples. That will definitely come in handy for someone not as food-smart--like me. The book gave me lots of new ideas to try out someday, as well as ideas to tweak other recipes I know of.

This is a recipe book that I would recommend to others, as well as use myself. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for this review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

The Lost Heiress (Ladies of the Manor, #1)

It's been a while since I really, really liked a book beyond others. I wasn't quite as crazy about it in the first few chapters, as the way in which Brook ended up reuniting with her long lost family was a bit uneventful, but nevertheless was necessary in order to establish the backstory and foundation of Brook's relationship with Justin. The relationship between the two was interesting to read and watch develop throughout the story; Brook's insecurities were realistic given the circumstances.

I loved the plot and descriptions, as well. Not an overload of description, but I was easily able to imagine the places the events unfolding for Brook. The plot was interesting in the twists that it took throughout the story. While it ultimately ended how I hoped it would, there were plenty of plot twists to make me wonder if it would ever end up working out in the end and to keep me guessing about how it would unfold.

Overall, I really liked this story, and would definitely recommend it (I'll probably reread it again sometime in the future as well). I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for this review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Love Everlasting (Brides of Seattle, #3)

Love Everlasting is the third and final book in Tracie Peterson’s series Brides of Seattle. Prior to reading this book, I had read the second book in the series, but not the first (I still have yet to read the first). While the second book in the series focuses on Militine’s love life, this third book focuses on that of Abrianna. I wasn’t sure at first if I would like the book, since I wasn’t as interested in Abrianna while I was reading the second book. However, I ended up liking Abrianna in the third book, as it focused more directly on her and her thought process and actions.

A big part of the plot focused on Abrianna’s hesitancies toward marriage. It wasn’t that she didn’t love the man who was pursuing her; instead, she had fears about what would change in the relationship upon marriage. I thought this point was very realistic and relatable to many young women even today. The ways in which she handled it and worked through it, and the way it eventually ended, was realistic, relatable, and offers hope and comfort for women who hold the same hesitancies.

While I wouldn’t say this book is necessarily one of my favorites, I would certainly recommend it to others. It is a good, clean read with many good points and encouragements. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for this review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Sunday, September 6, 2015

Reservations for Two (Two Blue Doors, #2)

I liked this book--it was different. It was the kind of book that was much more realistic, because everything didn't work out just like the main character hoped it would. Not even at the end. I'm not sure the main character even knew what she wanted to happen, either, which happens all the time in real life.

Part of the book that I really liked was the letters that Juliette found from a deceased relative. I loved getting to a point where another letter was revealed. The writing and voice of the letters sounded so real. I love learning about characters through letters. It was fun piecing together the person's life, since obviously the letters didn't contain every single detail of what was going on.

Overall I really liked this book, and would recommend it. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for this review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Thursday, July 16, 2015

Book Review: Mockingjay (Hunger Games, #3)

Mockingjay is the final book of the Hunger Games trilogy. While the final book in some series can be a letdown, I felt that Mockingjay maintained and continued to increase the tension laid in the first two books. The plot continued to twist and take many unexpected turns as it continued and finally concluded the series.

I liked continued conflict in Katniss, which stayed right up until the last page. Throughout the whole series, I felt that Katniss was a relatable character who struggled with more than simplistic romance issues. Rather, she struggled through knowing and understanding the difference between right and wrong, discovering who she was, putting the pieces together on a situation that felt as if it could have been real for any of us, and so much more. While I'm a bit disgruntled at her final decision considering the love triangle between Katniss, Peeta, and Gale, I at least appreciated that she had a logical reason for making the decision that she eventually did.

Overall I thought it was a well written, well laid out plot. It was a bit more violent at times than I would have liked, but it also consisted of a war. I would recommend it to an older audience, due to the violence, and more intricate themes. I bought this book, and therefore was not asked nor required to write a review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Book Review: Catching Fire (Hunger Games, #2)

Catching Fire was a great addition to the Hunger Games series. The book begins with Katniss and Peeta going through the victory tour, only to fail to accomplish anything that could possibly continue to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. The top it off, the two receive news which rocks both their worlds far more than either could ever imagine.

I really like the point of view the book takes--going right into Katniss' head and telling the story as she sees it. It's so easy to get into the story when you feel like you're right there living with her. I liked that this way of relating the story allowed the reader to gather pieces of the puzzle and put some together, but still end up just as confused as Katniss, or whatever other emotion she was experiencing at any given scene.

While the violence continues in the book, I do believe Collins does a remarkable job in relating what can happen when people become callous to violence. I would recommend the book and the series to young adults and adults. I bought this book, and therefore was not asked nor required to write a review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Book Review: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (Chronicles of Narnia, Book #1)

The first book of the series The Chronicles of Narnia, as well as the rest of the books in the series, is simply a classic, and always will be. I love the story of four children finding their way into Narnia through a magic wardrobe, and all the adventurous which they face.

The allegory in the story is impeccable. From the locations to scenes to characters, and particularly Aslan's sacrifice at the stone table and following events at the close of the story, Lewis has crafted a fantastic, interesting story which mirror's Biblical truths.

I have read this book countless times, both growing up and in my adult years, and have always enjoyed it immensely. I would certainly recommend it to anyway, at any age. I bought this book, and therefore was not asked nor required to write a review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Book Review: Refining Fire

Refining Fire was a book which intrigued me based on the back cover description of the plot--the summary pricked an area of interest in my life, and so I was interested to read it. My only real complaint with the book is that the back cover led me to believe the book was primarily about Militine and Thane...however, I felt that Militine's friend, Abrianna and her friend Wade were actually the main characters of the story.

The story between Abrianna and Wade was interesting, and was totally fine for the main thrust of the story. I was just very confused through the whole book over who was the main characters. The part of the book which did deal with Militine and Thane didn't hold my interest very well. I felt it wasn't as deep as it could have been.

The plot of the book wasn't bad; it just wasn't what I was personally expecting or hoping for. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for this review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Wednesday, July 1, 2015

Book Review: The One

The One is a great book for those who are in a relationship, or single and preparing for a future relationship. The book begins by enlightening the reader to the love story of Ryan and Amanda Leak, who got engaged and married in the same day. After their super big day, they posted a documentary on youtube about their surprise wedding, and the video went viral.

After the initial introduction to the authors' story, the book moves on to talk about singleness and how to prepare during that time period of life, relationship obstacles, leading and submitting, expectations, culture, creatively loving, and much more. One of the chapters that I particularly appreciated was one on sexuality, particularly relating to ones who have had premarital sex or who struggle with sexual temptations in some way or another. With so many people struggle with this issue, I thought the Leak's take on it was great, and a much needed address both to those who have failed in this area and to those who look down on those who have.

Overall I thought this book was a great resource for those looking to lead a Godly, fulfilling, intentional relationship with their significant other, future or present. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for this review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Tuesday, June 16, 2015

Book Review: Couples of the Bible

Couples of the Bible is a unique couples devotional written in a format that makes it easy to read in a year, one day at a time. The content is wonderful. The book is set up so that each week you and your significant other can read about a couple from the Bible and learn together through that couple's example. The book contains both negative and positive examples, both from the Old and New Testament, including some which are not well known.

The format of the book was great. Each chapter covers a different Biblical couple, and is divided into sections with the intention of allowing the reader(s) to read one section per day, so that in one week they can thoroughly study the couple. Additionally, each section is labeled with the day of the week to help keep the reader on track (although, you can read the entire chapter in one sitting, if you so desire). Each chapter tells the basic story of the couple, and outlines their struggle within their relationship. The next section gives background information on the time period in which the couple lived, which helps the reader to better understand the situation/circumstances. The sections then move on to look into the couple's struggle, provide discussion questions, and finally outlines ways to pray based on the lessons learned by the couple.

I thought this book was a great resource for couples, whether married or in dating/courting relationships, and I would recommend it. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for this review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Book Review: The Long Patrol (Redwall, Book 10)

The Long Patrol was yet another fantastic installment of the Redwall series. While it wasn't my favorite in the series, the book held my attention and kept me reading, and I greatly enjoyed it. In The Long Patrol, the plot centers around the adventures of a young hare named Tammo, who aspires to be a part of the famous Long Patrol of Salamantron. The events accumulate into a devastating battle against Damug, the leader of the vermin band known as the Rapscallions.

This tale is full of colorful and memorable characters. I love the different dialects among the species of animals, ranging from hare to mole, to squirrel and mouse. I would certainly recommend this book to anyone, as well as the rest of the Redwall series. I bought this book, and therefore was not asked nor required to write a review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Sunday, May 31, 2015

Book Review: Turning Points

Turning Points was a book that I had to read for a college class on Baptist history and Christianity; although only about 75% of the book was assigned for the class, I ended up reading the remaining chapters as well for my own benefit (although I personally got more out of the first 75%, but that's probably because I absolutely had to remember in case of a quiz the following day).

The book covers thirteen important turning points in the history of Christianity, although the author makes note that these thirteen are certainly not the only crucial turning points. Each chapter is informative and gives general information about the event before plunging in and explaining why it was important, and what impact it had in Christianity. I learned a lot from the book, particularly about events that I had a general knowledge of--such as the coronation of Charlemagne--but had never dove into deeply in order to understand why the event played out the way it did nor how it affected other events.

I would recommend this book to someone studying the history of Christianity, or someone looking for a deeper knowledge of important events which Noll covers. I bought this book, and therefore was not asked nor required to write a review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Saturday, May 30, 2015

Book Review: Inspiralized: Turn Vegetables into Healthy, Creative, Satisfying Meals

This is the first cookbook I have ever gotten myself, so I wasn't sure what exactly to expect or hope for. However, I am pleased to say that I think I will enjoy and use Inspiralized once I've settled into my future home--although some of the recipes can be made in a college dorm, as well! Now I just need to find myself a spiralizer...

I was very impressed by the easy and understandable setup of Maffucci's book. At the beginning, she introduces the book by explaining the importance of eating healthy, but also how her recipes allow  versatility depending on individual food interests. I liked that she gave an overview of the spiralizer itself, and explained which blades should be used for certain results, as well as what vegetables should and should not be used with it. For a cooking newbie, I found this very helpful (without making me feel super stupid).

Inspiralized also includes charts showing the health benefits of the fruits and vegetables used, as well as in comparison to dishes such as regular pasta. Overall, I thought the book was very informative of basic healthy eating essentials, as well as containing countless recipes for healthy and creative dishes. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for this review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Friday, May 29, 2015

Book Review: From the Start

This book was so stinking cute. From the Start is definitely on my favorites list as of now. Melissa Tagg wove a fantastic, unique plot filled with three dimensional characters. I liked that Colton, one of the two main characters, was a former football player (even though I know nothing of football...) dealing with a lot of life changes, as well as ghosts of the past.

The other main character, Kate, was the one I think I identified with the most, which made me like her more. The interest the two developed for each other was cute, realistic, and identifiable. But it still ended well, which I appreciated. :-) This is the first book of Tagg's which I have read; I definitely plan on keeping an eye out for more of her books!

I would definitely recommend this book. The cute romance weaved in with real life problems turned into a terrific blend which I enjoyed immensely. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for this review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Friday, May 22, 2015

Book Review: Beyond All Dreams

I loved this book. Beyond All Dreams was highly unique in its plot. The story line followed a young, female librarian in a time period that was just beginning to accept females as employees. Anna served as a map librarian in the library of Congress; she was a vivid character that was well rounded and developed, as well as unique in her interests.

Equally as vivid and rounded was the co-main character, Luke. In this plot, he played the part of a young, ambitious congressman who was quickly making his way to the top when he gained an interest in Anna as soon as their paths crossed. Their brewing romance was made more real by Anna's reluctance to participate in favor of her job.

I liked that both characters had their own flaws and dark parts of their histories, but that both overcame them in the end. I would definitely recommend this book to others. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for this review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Tuesday, May 5, 2015

Book Review: After A Fashion

After A Fashion was a book I wasn't sure of initially, but became very glad that I decided to read it. This was one of the most entertaining books I've read in a long time. The main character, Harriet, had a wit that was very amusing to read. The interactions between her and Oliver, the other main character, were original and interesting.

The plot was crazy original, so much so that I really had no idea what was going to happen most of the time (not so crazy as to lose interest, though). The ending caught me by total surprise. It caught me by surprise, and unraveled in such a way that I felt like I was in Harriet's shoes, being totally blown away and caught off guard as it happened. This was definitely a refreshing read after a semester of reading for school!

I would definitely recommend this books. I'll also be holding onto this book for my personal collection; I'm sure I'll reread it at some point in the future. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for this review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Friday, April 10, 2015

Book Review: Heart Wide Open

Heart Wide Open is a book intended to help you open yourself up and grow closer to God. The goal is to fully surrender to Him and grow your passion for Him as you allow Him to ignite it further. The book was set up well, and the layout and purpose was attractive. Unfortunately, for me, most of the points were things I had already known or practiced.

The one point that was really helpful to me was to admit that you don't love Him. It was a bit surprising at first, but the point the author made was that you can't grow closer if you are not being honest. And sometimes honesty hurts. God already knows what's going on in your heart, so you may as well admit it and ask Him to help you from where you currently are. It was an interesting point.

This isn't a book that I would recommend on a regular basis, but possibly to a new believer somewhere down the road. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for this review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Thursday, April 9, 2015

Book Review: The Patmos Deception

I had a particular interest in reading this book, primarily because the location of it is set on the Greek island of Patmos, which I have had the pleasure of visiting myself a few years ago. Naturally, then, I was really interested in checking it out. The setting portrayed the book just as I remembered Patmos from my own experience--relaxed and beautiful, and quiet in the off season (which was the same time I was there). Additionally, the book mentioned particular sites on the island that I had visited, which was really cool. 

The story had an intriguing plot, and kept me interested throughout it. The last book I had read that was similar in genre and type leaned more heavily on the suspense than the Patmos Deception did. The suspense in this book wasn't quite as exhilarating, but rather lingered in the background more, sort of like a weight behind the scenes. The characters were interesting and multi-dimensional, although I don't think I had a favorite. The ending had a cliffhanger that didn't catch me as much, but drove my roommate, who also read the book, absolutely crazy.

Overall, I think the Patmos Deception was a well written novel with an interesting setting and premise. While it may not be on my top five books to recommend, I would still recommend it. I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for this review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.

Book Review: Mattimeo [Redwall Series, Book 3]

Mattimeo is the third book in the Redwall series. I've loved the Redwall series since I was in middle school, but this is one of the few that I had not had the opportunity to read until now. Although I like rereading the series, it was a refreshing change to read one of the Redwall books without knowing how it would end, what characters would eventually die, what challenges they would face or the sacrifices made.

I liked all the characters in this book, but I am particularly fond of Queen Warbeak (the Sparra language always entertained me), and Matthias. I thought it was cool that Matthias was the current Redwall Warrior, but that his son was kidnapped, which in turn spawned the adventure that occurred. The co-existence of the current warrior and the future warrior was an interesting aspect, and made me question at times if one would die before the end. Jacques also did well in his integration of previous books, as the villain was the child of one of the villains in a previous book and therefore had a greater agenda than just being evil.

Overall, I thought this was an excellent addition to the Redwall series, which I would certainly recommend. I bought this book, and therefore was not asked nor required to write a review. These opinions are my own; I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for this review.