I am so excited to be part of the 'Hymns in the Hills' Release tour, it's my first time participating in one. Rebekah A. Morris did a wondering job with this book, a big thank you to her for letting me review it! Read to the end to find out how you can enter a giveaway for a Kindle version of this book!

Leona – Review & Author Interview

Amanda – Book Spotlight

Tuesday, May 28

Kaitlyn S. – Review & Author Interview

Rebekah Ashley – Book Spotlight

Rebekah – Names

Wednesday, May 29

Erika – Review

Sarah – Book Spotlight

Rebekah – Hymn Books

Thursday, May 30

Kaylee – Review – Review

Rachel – this post!

Rebekah – Editing

Friday, May 31

Esther – Author Interview

Jessica – Book Spotlight

Rebekah –Setting

Saturday, June 1

Kassie – Review & Author Interview

Rosalyn – Book Spotlight & Review

Penny – Review

Rebekah – Final Post + Book Covers

  Guess what, I'm finally back! With a book review.

     'Shelter of the Most High' by Connilyn Cossette follows the story of the daughter of a pagan priest, who is captured by marauders. Sofea finds refuge in Canaan, in a city with a foreign language, foreign culture, and foreign God. She must decide whether those around her are trustworthy - and everything she has ever known is a lie, or whether they are just the same as the people in the village she has come from.



     It was fascinating to be immersed in the historical culture of Ancient Israel. To see the difference in the cultures from the eyes of those who lived in those days was really interesting, and really impacted me with just how much God is different from false gods. Although people nowadays look at the rules of ancient Israel as confining, this book really shows just how protecting they were, and how contrasting they were from the cultures surrounding them!

But now - a closer look at the story. 

     It was so sweet to read about Moriyah again, and Derek. I was looking forward to reading about Eitan as well, as I loved him in 'A Light on the Hill' - the first book in this series. 

Sofea was a really well-written character. I loved how she was small, yet so fierce. Her character development throughout the story was beautiful. Her protectiveness over Prezi and the way that the two eventually switched places was so interesting. The way that she slowly began to understand the concepts of forgiveness, mercy, and grace was my favourite aspect of the story.

Eitan was such a complex character. To be completely honest, I found him frustrating for the first half of the book. He misunderstood his father so much, even though I found his motives so easy to understand! It seemed like he was purposely oblivious and clueless, and also a bit selfish. But the second half of the book explained some of that. His character development was rewarding.


The plot didn't lag, although I did find I didn't fully get into the story until the second half of the book. At certain points of the story I was on the edge of my seat, wondering what was going to happen next. 

I would recommend 'Shelter of the Most High' for readers 16+. There is a bit of violence, nothing graphic. The romance was a bit too much for my tastes. 

     Overall, I did enjoy this story. Connilyn is a talented writer, and the way she describes things is beautiful. She never fails to really open my eyes to the world of Moses & Joshua, a give me a better understanding of ancient Israel.

  I hope you all enjoyed this review. Soon I will be back with another one - of 'Phantom's Daughter'. It has been long put off, but I can't wait to share it!

    Sincerely,
      Rachel 

    "A Light on the Hill" is a story about a young woman named Moriyah, who has a brand on her cheek, from a traumatic kidnapping in Jericho. She lives in shame and fear, staying silent and hiding, rather than standing up for herself. She believes that God has forsaken her, because of the fateful scar on her face, and His supposed silence.

    After a horrible accident occurs, and she is forced to flee to a city of refuge. Along the way she makes many friends who see her for who she is, becomes confident, learns the value of forgiveness, and that God does not forsake His children.

    Connilyn Cossette does a wonderful job showing us the world of the promised land, and the tension between the people were facing with the Canaanites who remained on the borders. The land comes alive, and the realities of the cities of refuge. Although we usually don't give them a second thought, this book shows just how important they were, and how they represented the mercy of God! 

   I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Moriyah, and remembered her from "Wings of the Wind", which included part of her history. She was a really interesting character, who I could relate to in many ways. The character development throughout the book was really dynamic, especially as she bit by bit, learned to live fully.

 Eiten was an adorable character. His compassionate and enthusiastic nature, made him likeable and charming. I am looking forward to reading more about him in the future. Ora was also a sweet character, who I had high hopes for in the beginning, and a suspicion that turned out to be true! (But you will just have to read the book to find out what it was.)

   Darek was also a fascinating character. The way he was willing to stand for justice, made him a strong character. Although he had his flaws, he contrasted so strongly to his brother Raviv. He was willing to try to understand, and forgive, while Raviv was bent on revenge. This was thought-provoking. Which of these character's actions do we follow in conflict?

   The plot was fast paced, unpredictable, but gave you time to keep up and think about what was happening. It was realistic, interesting, and held powerful lessons about forgiveness, God, and His plan for our lives.

   Overall, I would give "A Light on the Hill" four stars, and recommend it to anyone who is interested in historical or biblical fiction, or just a good story. My age recommendation would be sixteen up.

   As I say with all of Connilyn's books, I am not usually a fan of the Biblical fiction genre, but her books always are an exception. It is obvious that she does her research, and doesn't over dramatize or romanticize the world of Biblical times! So I definitely would suggest you go and get your own copy of "A Light on the Hill" in your book store, or here - https://www.amazon.com/Light-Hill-Cities-Refuge/dp/0764219863

   I hope you all enjoyed this book review, it seems that I frequently review Connilyn's books. She is among my favourite authors, so go check out some of my past reviews. Happy Reading!

   Sincerely, Rachel R.

 

Ellie Daniels never saw it coming…Her life was peaceful and fulfilling, working as a successful young author in New York City. While she creates paper people to release the grief of losing her mother so early and not having the support network of friends and family, her father spends his time serving with the NYPD. Ellie and Martin Daniels have each other. They’re surviving. Not thriving, but they’re alive, and that’s all that matters, until the night a vicious attack leaves Ellie reeling. Traumatized and not knowing how to process her grief, Ellie flees New York and returns to the summer cottage of her childhood in Maple Ridge when mysterious people from history begin appearing in her house. From battered war heroes to charming U.S. Marshal Howie Robertson, Ellie begins to understand that not all those from history wish to stay there. 
The past is chasing her, and he has a name.

    A cunningly weaved plot, a stunning setting, lovable and unforgettable characters, and beautiful reminders and lessons, Present History is a timeless story which you will pick up again and again.

History is alive.
Who are those of the future to say the past is silent?
Let history speak for itself, and may those who have ears, listen.
For many hear, but few listen.
Fewer still are those who understand.
Howie Robertson

    When I first read 'Present History' I was amazed by both the quality of the writing, and the story itself. It was an original idea, but so well executed. When I read it again, I was able to appreciate everything so much more, and still be excited by the plot. It is not predictable at all.

    The plot is so well paced, and although it is quite intense, it's doesn't feel too exciting. It keeps you on the edge of your seat, but even so, there is plenty of time for exploring the setting, and developing the characters.

    Speaking of the characters.... Where do I even begin? Asking me to pick a favourite character is like asking me to pick a favourite book {it ain't gonna happen - although this book is definitely a contender}.




There's Ellie Daniels - the author, a thoughtful yet troubled girl, who is so much like a lot of us.

There's Tom Holt - a sweet {like seriously sweet}, kind, and wise guy. His family and him made me smile so much. Just reading about them made me feel like I was at their dinner table, enjoying the warmth and laughter. Also #Tellie all the way.

Howie Robertson- the wise marshal, who is just a tad bit protective.

Justice, Ethan, Jonathan, Hannah... The list goes on, they were all so amazing, and the character growth was seriously inspiring.



    The interactions between characters were also so good. They took time to find out who each person was, and appreciated their struggles and wisdom. Like can I just have them all as friends, pretty please?

    The villain was so so perfect. No, not perfect, but I mean he was completely shiver up your spine loathsome. He is the epitome of evil, but he still was realistic.

     The settings were so amazing. The story is partly set in New York, and partly in British Columbia - my home province - and there's plenty of forests, lakes, cabins and country roads.

   It is so easy to get into this story, and I highly recommend you do. You won't be able to put the book down. When you're done, you will feel so warm and fuzzy, and also a little bit like you've been run over by a train {but in a good way}. Can I have the sequel now please? No, I have to wait? Oh well, I'll go reread this book then.

   Hats off to Ashley for this masterpiece of a book. You have won yourself a loyal fan, and I am so looking forward to your future works.

  To all readers, be sure to add "Present History" to your to read list on Goodreads and mark down the day to publishing. Also - enter the giveway on Goodreads, and you could win a copy!

 Also, be sure check out Ashley's blog,  instagram account @toashleynikole ,  and facebook page.


Happy reading!

  Sincerely,
    Rachel

   A book review - I haven't posted one of these in a while! Well, I'm going to start off the year with a really good book.



    The Pattern Artist by Nancy Moser, is a story about a housemaid, who isn't afraid to dream big. Annie Woods decides to take things into her own hands, and make a life for herself in America.
      I found this book a delightful read! The characters were interesting and loveable. Annie was relatable, and realistic, which made her a good heroine. She worked hard to get what she could, but struggled with doubts and worries. Along her journey, she learned to trust God, and let herself begin to enjoy the moment. One of my favourite characters was Danny, who was brave, optimistic, and kind. He added lightness to the story, when things were looking down.
      The villain was also well-written. He was revengeful and mean, but didn't seem too unrealistic. He wasn't the completely crazy-looking, suspicious man that everyone would look at and shudder, a common cliche.
      The plot was adventurous, and kept me on the edge of my seat. It wasn't exactly a mystery, but it definitely had some suspenseful moments.
       I really liked the setting. From America - to Paris, it was all nicely detailed. The historical aspects were pretty accurate, so was the sewing details. I definitely do not know as much about sewing as the author, but I learned a lot from reading. I also liked how the author could write about sewing, without making everything seem to heavy and fact-loaded.
     One of my favourite historic aspect of the story, was about the Reform Dress Movement. I've always been an interested in that movement. In the book it addressed corsets, and I believe that corsets are not good for your health, so it was nice to read about how the movement started.
      Overall I would rate this book 5/5 - ages 12+. I really enjoyed it, and would read it again!

Be sure to check it out! Happy reading.
   Sincerely,
   Rachel R

  I'm getting closer to my book review a week goal! My book review of this week is "The Silver Suitcase" by Terrie Tod.

I'm reviewing this book for Netgalley, but the review is completely my opinion, and completely honest.

      The cover of this books is so pretty! I was drawn to it immediately, and I the description made me even more curious and excited to read it. I was certainly not disappointed.
     My favourite character was probably Corrie, aka Cornelia. I loved her stubbornness at the beginning, and her spunk. It really added a humorous tone to the story. Even though she was sometimes stubborn about the wrong things, it made her more realistic and I could sympathize with her.  She of course made mistakes so she wasn't that perfect and angelic character that always seems one dimensional. Seeing her struggle and learn through her problems, and find forgiveness and hope was really encouraging.

   I loved Henry. He was funny, kind, and had a charm to him, even though he could be shy and awkward. The author did a great job of portraying him, and making you really love him.

   Bonita was also a great character, I loved the Grandmother / Granddaughter relationship at the beginning of the book, it was so sweet. The legacy of the ice-cream maker was also a sweet touch to the story. When she grew up, Bonita was exactly what many people are like today. She had marriage problems, wasn't spending time with God, was worried all the time and stressed about work, and missing out on time with her children. But I don't think it was stereotypical, and thought it was a good thing this character was in that position, because this book can really reach a lot of people!

    The plot was great. It really had me guessing, and wanting to read more of the diary. Some of the plot twists really surprised me even though they're foreshadowed in the description on the back of the book.

    The ending was amazing, I really enjoyed it! Even though we never get to see the entire diary, I thought it was very well thought out, and satisfying.

     This book taught some hard lessons. Relationship pain, the danger of bitterness, and that we are never alone. It taught that we have to fight for our relationships, and try hard to make them work and understand other people's perspectives. There are so many more, but one that really hit me was that little things we do that seem so small and insignificant can change others lives.

   I would 100% recommend this book, for girls ages 14+. 'The Silver Suitcase' deserves five out of five stars.

     I know I'm not fooling any of you with my book review of the WEEK. I'm lacking big time, but I'm going to keep calling these book reviews of the week, because it sounds better than, book reviews at random times. :)  This review is of "Blue Ribbon Trail Ride" by Miralee Ferrell.

           
     Blue Ribbon Trail Ride was is in my opinion better than the second book. It follows the story of Kate, and her friends, and I found it to be very well written.
     The characters are all very nice. In the second book I found Kate to seem a little spoiled, but by the end of the book I saw a lot of character change. In this book she was very lovable. The characters all were very believable, and growing up with an autistic brother I can see that she portrays Pete very well.
    My favorite characters are probably Kate and Colt. Kate shows a lovely spirit of selflessness and forgiveness in this book. She stays encouraged for the most part, and has a cheerful mindset even when things don't go the way planned.
    Colt also is still his old humorous self in this book, which probably is what makes him so like-able. I am home-schooled, so I always am a little biased towards home-schooled characters though.
     The plot is surprisingly well done for a book aimed towards middle-school children. Usually they are very predictable, but I found this one really good, I would even go so far as to say as good as some of the adult christian fiction I've read! It was fast paced, and not boring. I was kept guessing through the whole book, and at the edge of my seat.  
      I love Miralee's style of writing, as it isn't too flowery, neither dry. It is a great example of showing not telling when writing. It flows smoothly, and has a sense of humor and mystery to it.
     This book has many great lessons to it. Kate shows faith in God, selflessness and a love for others that even adults can learn from. She and her friends also learn forgiveness, and the dangers of presumption.
    Overall I would rate it 5/5, and I would definitely recommend it to girls or boys ages 8-16. I found it better than most YA fiction, so even those older who have a love for horses would enjoy it.
    Good work yet again Miralee Ferrell, I look forward to reading more of your books, and I will be reading the third book in this series, which I missed.
I've read the first two books in Miralee Ferrell's series, and although I enjoyed both of them very much, I didn't have high expectations for this book. Series, with the exception of some very special few, usually go downhill with each sequel. But this was not the case for this series!

    "Hast thou not known? Hast thou not heard that the everlasting God, the Lord, the creator of the ends of the earth fainteth not, neither is weary. There is no searching of His understanding. He giveth power to the faint, and to them that have no might He increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary , and the young men shall utterly fall: But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run , and not be weary ; and they shall walk , and not faint." Isaiah 40:28-31

  So... I decided that I'd do a book review of the week, even though it is more like book review of the month. It's going to be rather short, as I'm supposed to be doing school right now. Anyways let's get to it.
      This weekend I read a great book called, "Forgotten Girls: Stories of Hope and Courage" by Kay Marshall-Strom and Michelle Rickett. It was a really good book about girls in countries around the world, and the struggles they face each day.
        From the very first page this book was so thought provoking, and really grabbed my attention. The style of writing was really good, and that didn't really matter anyways because the stories were what made it the best.
        When the woman from Sudan asked why Americans don't help the women there, it really made me ask myself why we don't do more? When I learned about the little girls in India, it made me want to go scoop one up and tell her she's worth everything. When I read about the girls in Timbuktu and Japan it made me want to go and help them out of their situation.
        This book really inspires you not only to learn more about the plight of women and girls in foreign countries, but also to do something about it. And it doesn't leave you wondering what you can do, it gives you suggestions and steps to follow.
    I suggest this book 100% and give it 5/5 stars. I would say that it is appropriate for girls 13+.
     I hope you enjoyed my little book review, and to see how many people actually read this I'm going to ask you to do something for me. Leave me a comment, just saying hello, or tell me what you want me to do more of on this blog!
     Happy Reading!
   Sincerely,
Rachel R.

Yes, I know I haven't been keeping up with this, but I'm trying to get into it again.
    This weeks book review is... The Set Apart Woman by Leslie Ludy.


What can I say about 'The Set-Apart Woman' by Leslie Ludy? It is so inspiring and uplifting.
      I was expecting this book to be a little boring, and to drag on too long. I must say I was wrong in both cases. Leslie Ludy has written this book in a way that is fun, and interesting. She mixes personal experiences with Bible verses, and examples of women strong in their faith. It is easy to relate with her, and she seems like a human who makes mistakes just like us. But she shows us how we can raise above our mistakes and learn to do better.
       Some people have said the Leslie Ludy writes in such a way that she seems to be 'standing on a table yelling at me', but I find it quite the opposite. She seems to be standing before us gently guiding us, teaching us from her mistakes.
      This book inspired me and made me feel braver. One of my favorite chapters was the one about fear. I really felt like this was  good chapter for me on learning to trust God.
      I loved that she has adopted children, and as that is something I've always wished to do she really encouraged me to do it. I love her soft heart, and the story of her husbands call to help orphans.
   Overall I would rate this book 5/5 I can't really think of anything I would have changed. I 100% would recommend this book to a friend, and I am going to be sure to buy this book.
   Sincerely, Rachel

Never judge a book by its cover is a saying we often hear. It applies to people, and of course to books. Today I learned a very good lesson about this.
     I order a lot of books from the library and today I went to pick up a bunch, so happy to get some books again. One I'd been waiting a very long time for was 'Sinners & the Sea'. It's a book about Noah's wife. I was so excited to read it, and the cover was so beautiful. Another book among the pile was, 'Phoebe: A Novella.' by Diane Noble. It was smaller than I had expected, and the cover wasn't quite as nice as the other; 'Sinner's & the Sea'.
       I began the Phoebe one first, and fell in love with it, after only a few chapters. It was a beautiful book, about a doll made by a father for his daughter and it's journey through the hands of many people. It was such a well written story, and it seemed way longer than the book looked. The perfect length. I definitely recommend for you to go check it out. I love the cover now, after reading it and seeing how it was such a good book. Haha, and I also learned 'never judge a book by its size'.
    Then I picked up 'Sinners & and the Sea', and after admiring the cover for a few moments dove in. It was the perfect sized book, and I was so excited! I found the beginning a little weird, how Noah's wife had a large birth mark on her forehead causing everyone except her father to believe she was a demon. Not exactly how I envisioned this book but, I figure it would change after a while.
    Now a little farther in this book was getting me riled up a little. I was getting a little angry, at how it portrayed Noah, and I was only reading it now to see what it would say next. I only read to almost the middle of the book before I had to put it down. I found it so inaccurate, and it was really showing Noah as a crazy fanatic man. You can read my whole review here if you're interested: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1248972057  
   I could go on forever about how much I disliked this book, but I don't want to bore you.
  So lesson learned, NEVER JUDGE A BOOK BY ITS COVER. I don't care if it the ugliest cover you've ever seen, the words are the things that matter. And even though it might be the prettiest cover you've ever seen, it may be the worst book you've ever read.
   And here's something I read a while ago that I found interesting. All books are made up of 26 letters. I cool way to look at it eh? Well, I hope we all use those letters in a way pleasing to God!
   Also I'm working on the second draft of one of my books, who'd like a sneak peak? Comment and let me know if you would.
    Sincerely, Rachel