YA Book Review: A Daring Sacrifice by Jody Hedlund

Book Description:
In a reverse twist on the Robin Hood story, a young medieval maiden stands up for the rights of the mistreated, stealing from the rich to give to the poor. All the while, she fights against her cruel uncle who has taken over the land that is rightfully hers. Forced to live in the woods and hide with the poor people she's grown to love, she works to save and protect them, but she never anticipates falling in love with the wealthy knight who represents all she's come to despise.

My Review:
I love fairy tales, especially when they involve a brave young woman. Jody Hedlund's latest book, A Daring Sacrifice, meets my criteria of a well-made fairy tale, from castles to knights, and horses to kingdoms. It's refreshing to read a story written for young adults with a positive uplifting theme and a sweetness, rather than the dark fiction so often aimed at this age group. The main character is daring, she pushes the limits. But she has some intense conversations with God that reveal her true heart. The wealthy knight she meets gives her a run for her money (pun intended) but he too looks to God for guidance. I love the medieval setting, the forest, and the well-developed characters. This is Jody's second YA novel. She does the genre proud. I recommend this to every public library. If you enjoy a good story with adventure and a touch of romance, you'll love this book whether you're a young adult or a more seasoned adult like me.

I received this book in exchange for a fair review.

Spring!

Happy Spring!

Fiction Review: Annabel Lee by Mike Nappa

Book Description:

She doesn't know why her enigmatic uncle has stowed her deep underground in a military-style bunker. He's left her with a few German words, a barely controlled guard dog, and a single command: "Don't open that door for anybody, you got it? Not even me."

Miles away in Atlanta, private investigator Trudi Coffey is visited by a mysterious older

man calling himself Dr. Smith. He's been trailing a man for a decade--a man she met through her ex-partner Samuel Hill--and the trail has led him to her office. The last thing Trudi wants to do is to contact Samuel. But it will take both of them to unravel this mystery--before it's too late.

My Review:
Annabel Lee is a mixture of mystery and thriller with a touch of military warfare. I found the beginning of the book to be rather slow, but once all the characters came into play the story picked up. Trudi and Samuel brought a much needed lighter side to the story at times when the darkness of evil dominated the page. I appreciate the intelligence of the main character, Annabel Lee, and her determination to survive. The story is quite violent at times, but also shows heartfelt commitment and love. Overall, I'd give the book a three and a half. The story is unique and picks up the pace about a third of the way in with some interesting twists at the end.

I received this book in exchange for a fair review.

Even Thomas Barrow Found Redemption

2 Timothy 1:9-10
He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.

Thomas Barrow coerced people, manipulated the people he worked with, lied, and spied. For five seasons on Downton Abbey, he was treacherous, a sinner by any standard. As a result he was lonely, disheartened with life, and downright miserable. Sinning doesn't produce a beautiful life. Yet, even Thomas Barrett found redemption. By season six his life took a tragic turn and the very people he hurt and manipulated came to his rescue and forgave him. What? Forgave the guy who was so mean. Yes. They rallied around him and welcomed him into their family and loved him. And you know what, he smiled, he loved back, and he found peace.

I realize Thomas was a character with a scripted life, but how much does this reflect reality? I sin. The Bible says we all do. And yes other people's sin has hurt me just as my sins have hurt others. Yet, I am forgiven. Because Jesus gave his life for me. No matter how good I try to be, goodness won't save me from eternal hell. But Jesus will. He died for me, for everyone. He came to earth as human, experienced life here and suffered through death. But the beautiful that resulted is indescribable. God brought Jesus back to life. His resurrection is pure hope. The hope I recognized when I accepted Jesus as my Savior, my friend, my redeemer. As Easter approaches think on these things. Through Jesus I received forgiveness and continue to, because I follow Jesus, obey his teachings, and pray for mercy. I'm not saved by my power but by grace. Praise God for Jesus!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

The Daffodils

Pre-K Board Book Review: God Is Watching Over You by P.J. Lyons

Book Description:

God Is Watching Over You, written by P.J. Lyons and illustrated by Tim Warnes, is a sweet and gentle bedtime rhyme that reminds us that God is taking care of all of us from above.

As a follow up to their bestselling Thank You, Lord, for Everything, P.J. Lyons and Tim Warnes have created a sweet and relaxing padded cover board book that tells the story of God's constant presence around you. Meant to be read at night, when a child is warm and snug in their bed, the rhyming text and adorable illustrations in God Is Watching Over You gently remind us that God is constantly watching over us, protecting us, and caring for us.

My Review:
P.J. Lyons new book for little ones is the perfect example of how a child's night time routine can result in a peaceful sleepy time. I see this book as a good read for parents and children. Young children will love the bright and engaging illustrations by Tim Warnes and the delightful rhyme of the lamb's sweet day. Parents will enjoy sharing P.J.'s story with their little one as they put them to bed. And the comfort of knowing God is watching over them gives both child and adult a sense of security and peace. Reading is such an important element to raising children, especially when the story brings the truth of God to the listener. This would make a sweet gift for Easter or just a nice surprise for the end of the day. I received this book in exchange for a fair review.