Review: Book of Dreams

 

Elena Burroughs #1 

Howard Books  - Oct 4, 2011

352 pages - Adult, Fiction, Christian

www.davisbunn.com

Facebook: yes 

Twitter: @davisbunn

Source: Louisville Free Public Library 

Purpose: Received Book #2 for review 

Goodreads Summary: For Dr. Elena Burroughs, life is divided into two chapters—before and after the death of her husband. Today marks the point that her span of being a wife is equal to her span of being a widow. Even her success as a psychologist and her worldwide acclaim for a book on the interpretation of dreams is dimmed by an unspoken If only. Then a new patient arrives, one so private only her first name is given. Impeccably dressed and escorted by two bodyguards, Sandra recounts a frightening series of recurrent nightmares. Elena agrees to consider her case more carefully, convinced that something ominous may be at work here. Elena's interpretation of her dreams confirms that, indeed, the new patient and her family confront a powerful global network of dangerous forces. As the story unfolds, they face a key question of the Christian life: How do you understand and fulfill the will of God?

My Thoughts: I have to admit that I love it when I finish one good book and start another. That was my fear with this book. I had just finished reading a book that blew my mind away with its awesomeness, and I didn't really know anything about this book or this author. It's not fair, I know. And I soon found out that I had nothing to worry about. There was a point where I looked up and realized that I had just read a hundred pages, but it had felt as though I had just begun. This was a fast read, but only because it was a can't -put -down page turner. I couldn't  find a good stopping place so I just kept on reading. 

                 Bunn has found a fresh perspective on the supernatural topic of dreams and faith. Dreams and what to do about them/how to interpret them are popping up a lot, especially in YA literature. But I haven't read anything like this. This story is definitely action- packed  with some sinister  bad guys. It's balanced with good guys  who only want to do the right things. They are all connected  by dreams that appear to be from God. They all come to Dr. Burroughs who steps into new territory when asked to help a stranger figure out her dream. They can only agree that it is God moving them together, not that any of them understand it. 

                  This was a great read with characters that came life. The setting of Oxford often alternated between success and failure.  Sometimes I remembered that the story was taking place in Oxford, this happened when the scenery was brought to the forefront or when the buildings were named and described. Other than that it felt that the story could take place anywhere. I don't think that this is a bad thing though. 

What's Next? Hidden in Dreams

4 stars ****

Always Shine, 

Starr K 

Review: The Bridge

The Bridge by Karen Kingsbury 

Howard Books - October 23, 2012 

272 pages - Adult, Fiction, Christian

http://www.karenkingsbury.com/

Facebook: Yes 

Twitter: @KarenKingsbury

Source: Publisher

Reason for reading: Review

I received a copy of this book, free, in exchange for my honest opinion. 

Goodreads Summary- Number one New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury delivers an instant classic with this heartwarming Christmas story about a hundred-year flood, lost love, and the beauty of enduring friendships.Molly Allen lives alone in Portland, but she left her heart back in Tennessee with a man she walked away from five years ago. They had a rare sort of love she hasn’t found since.
Ryan Kelly lives in Nashville after a broken engagement and several years on the road touring with a country music duo. He can still hear Molly’s voice encouraging him to follow his dreams; Molly, whose memory stays with him. At least he can visit The Bridge—the oldest bookstore in historic downtown Franklin—and remember the hours he and Molly once spent there.
For thirty years, Charlie and Donna Barton have run The Bridge, providing the people of middle Tennessee with coffee, conversation, and shelves of good books—even through dismal book sales and the rise of digital books. Then in May, the hundred-year flood swept through Franklin and destroyed nearly every book in the store.
Now the bank is pulling the lease on The Bridge. Despondent and without answers, Charlie considers the unthinkable. Then tragedy strikes, and suddenly, everything changes. In the face of desperate brokenness and lost opportunities, could the miracle of a second chance actually unfold?
The Bridge is a love story set against the struggle of the American bookstore, a love story you will never forget

My Thoughts-

Karen Kingsbury is the mega-superstar in the writing world.  She has a billion books under her belt (and yes the exaggeration is all mine). For me, she's like the Jodi Picoult of Christian Fiction.  So, why did it take me so long to read my first Kingsbury novel? Especially since I own a few? And have a couple more sitting in the review pile? I have no idea, but that will be remedied rather quickly. 

Anyway, I digress. The Bridge was a beautiful story about love, friendship and second chances. It was at once beautiful and heartbreaking. Molly Allen adn Ryan Kelly pose as "the one that got away" for each other. They have moved on with their lives, thinking that the other is happier in their separate walks of life. But they both hold these special memories in the back of their mind and The Bridge bookstore in their hearts.

Charlie and Donna Barton have given everything  to The Bridge and now they stand to lose it all.  Their love for each other is inspiring. A tragedy brings Charlie and Donna and all of the customers that they have ever touched back together. It's beautiful and refreshing to see how many lives are impacted by a man who only wants to share his passion of reading with those who enter his store. It's daunting to feel that there are so many good people in the world who will rally around a cause that most would ignore. 

This was short and beautiful, and I felt right at home. 

What's Next? The Chance 

4 Stars ****

Always Shine, 

Starr K

Review: The Asylum Interviews

The Asylum Interviews by Jocelyn Drake are two novellas that take place before Angel's Ink,  the first book in her new series. I have not read any of Jocelyn Drake before, but from what I have read I think I am going to have to check out her previous works

http://www.jocelynndrake.com/

Facebook: Yes 

Twitter: @ JocelynDrake

The Asylum Interviews: Bronx  (The Asylum Tales 0.5) 

87 pages - Adult, Fiction, Fantasy, Paranormal 

Harper Voyager - July 3, 2012

Source: Purchased from Amazon 

Synopsis from Goodreads: In Low Town, where humans walk and work side-by-side with elves, vampires, ogres, and all manner of creature, it's understandable that people occasionally need a little help in their lives. Whether is love, work, or ... other, tattoo artists are there to try to help turn the odds into your favor. When Gage's friend Parker needs help with his love life, tattoo artists Gage and Bronx are only too happy to help. But the incubus ends up getting more than he bargained for with his new tattoo, and his friends are forced to scramble to fix the mess they've created before someone gets hurt

My thoughts: This was my first anything by Jocelyn Drake, and I liked it! I can immediately tell that she is a great storyteller. Though this was a quick glimpse at the characters in her new series, it was also entertaining. At the end, I knew that I wanted more. I had to have more. I think that this was a great introduction to Gage and Bronx. While it was slightly humorous at the beginning, there was depth that isn't necessarily shown in the shorter stories.  There was a nice glimpse into Gage's past and the secret that he is hiding, which creates a deeper sense of understanding. I am not sure of the roles each character will play, but I look forward to reading more about them. 

4 Stars ****

What's Next?The Asylum Interviews: Trixie (The Aslyum Tales 0.6) 

Bronx Cover Image

The Asylum Interviews: Trixie (The Asylum Tales 0.6) 

100 Pages - Adult, Ficition, Fantasy, Paranormal 

Harper Voyager-  September 4, 2012 

Source: Purchased from Amazon 

Synopsis from Goodreads: The second of two prequel stories to Jocelynn Drake's Angel's Ink. Gage's ex-girlfriend is back in town and needs help escaping a master vampire. While not the easiest of tasks, he certainly didn't count of getting help from a mysterious woman with a few secrets of her own.

My Thoughts:  If Bronx's story was an introduction to the characters, then Trixie's story is just a tease.   I am glad that I have a review copy of Angel's Ink so that I can dive right in. I am definitely looking forward to it after finishing this story. I really like Gage, and not just because of the hidden power that he wields, because he really is a good guy. He has a lot of connections because he is often willing to do the right thing without much regards to himself. This is also a common trait found in his friends and co-workers. What I like so far, is that he is not the only character that stands out. I am more interested in his story, but that may be because we are seeing everything through his eyes and we are in his head. I am not complaining, just explaining why I am drawn to him as a character. I do wonder what's going on in the other characters minds. While I am hoping for a showdown between Gage and the Ivory Towers, I am also hoping to learn more about Trixie, Bronx, Jo, Jill and Parker. The gargoyles seem interesting as well. Ahh, there is so much that pulls you into the story. 

4 stars **** 

What's Next? Angel's Ink

Trixie Cover Image

Always Shine, 

Starr K

Review: Incarnation

Incarnation by Emma Cornwall

Gallery Books – September 18, 2012

332 pages – Adult, Steampunk, Paranormal, Fantasy,

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5367387.Emma_Cornwall

Facebook: Yes

Twitter: no

Source: Publisher via Edelweiss

To read what this story is about click here.

I received a copy of this digital galley, free, in exchange for my honest opinion.

Vampires, werewolves, the legend of King Arthur, Bram Stoker  and steampunk?! Are you kidding me? I was in heaven while reading this. What an odd combination that shouldn’t work so well together, but I am happy to report that it goes beyond that. It was a fresh look into the person of Bram Stoker as well as the story of Dracula. It was very original.

                I am rather new to the whole world of steampunk, and will never claim to be an expert. It is something that is popping up more frequently and I have to admit that I enjoy what I’ve read  of it so far (for the most part).  I couldn’t tell you whether this was light or heavy steampunk, that is not my area of expertise. Lucy’s story was easy to follow and get lost in.  What I really loved about this story was that the creature didn’t determine the morality of the character. There were good vampires as well as bad ones. There were questionable creatures of the night, downright dark and evil creatures as well as those who were trying to do their best to protect, or even hold onto, humanity.

                Lucy was an interesting character, she was new to this world –one she didn’t know had even existed. I am not sure if it was intentional, but there was the hint of a love triangle. Though, normally I am not a fan of triangles I would like to see how this one is played out.  As she learns about what she’s become it becomes apparent that there are things in her past that we don’t know enough about.  Being the creature that both humans and vampires should fear is an interesting concept – one that wasn’t completely developed in this book.

                Marco is the protector of humanity and Lucy’s love interest. While it did feel a little insta-lovish, it wasn’t. Marco and Lucy shared a connection before her incarnation but, she doesn’t really remember it. This was another area that I found myself wanting a little more from.  Mordred is the son of King Arthur and King of the Vampires. I haven’t completely developed an opinion about him; I think that there’s something lurking in his shadows. I like him, but . . . Yes, there’s a but, and I am not sure how I want to finish that thought.

                The bad guys were deliciously violent, manipulative and uncomfortably unlikable.  Is this the beginning of a series?  I don’t know but I hope so. While this feels like a complete story, I still have a few questions. The war has been averted –for now- but there are still a few unresolved issues. Though I did enjoy this read a lot more before I realized how open the ending was.

Recommendation: This is really worth checking out. Fans of the various genres will not be disappointed.

What Next? Not sure, couldn’t really find much info on the author. (Emma Cornwall is a pen name). Incarnation just released so Facebook and Goodreads are only talking about Incarnation. But I will be keeping my eyes and ears out if something else comes along.

4 Stars ****

Always Shine,

Starr K

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Review: Peace at the Edge of Uncertainty

Peace at the Edge of Uncertainty by Neil Hanson

High Prairie Press – May 3, 2010

134 pages – Adult

http://neilhanson.com/

Facebook: yes

Twitter: no

Source: The Author

Read what this book is about here.

A copy of this book was given to me, free, in exchange for my honest opinion.

This story is deeply personal, so much so that I don’t want to write this review. But, I’ve committed to sharing my honest opinion- positive or negative. I have some issues with this story – the first one being is it fiction or nonfiction? This really isn’t something someone should ever have to ask, at least in my opinion – especially when you’ve communicated with the author. It’s only referred to as a story in the back cover copy. Even going back to the original email with the author, I couldn’t find the answer. If it’s mentioned amongst the review clips than that would be the problem; I don’t read other people’s reviews of books I’ve accepted for review.

                But, let’s not dwell on that because my opinion is the same whether it’s fiction or not.  I don’t comment on other’s people faith or belief system. It’s a personal choice and everyone else has a right to whatever. I do remain open when I receive something that’s outside of my own system of beliefs. Or at least I try to; but my opinion is that you really can’t combine pieces of various faiths without altering the core of each one. I didn’t connect with the story, the death of the father and the son’s seeking didn’t reach me. I have a lot of issues with this story and in the end they only served as distractions that I was not able to overlook or forgive.

0 Stars

Always Shine,

Starr K

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Review and Giveaway: The Breakthrough

The Breakthrough by Jerry Jenkins

 Precinct 11 #3

Tyndale Fiction – August 17, 2012

387 Pages – Adult, Christian Fiction

http://jerry-jenkins.com/

Facebook: Yes

Twitter: @JerryBJenkins

Source: Publisher

 Read what this book is about here.

I received a copy of this book, free, in exchange for me honest opinion.I am not sure how Jenkins manages to drag me to the edge of my seat time and again, but her does. He does it in such a way that I didn’t realize how close to the edge I was –until I almost fell (figuratively not literally ;)). It’s not the writing, while it is well- written, it’s simple. Sometimes it’s the patterns of the words. Adjectives and the scenery can cause you to get lost in a book. But that’s not what pulls you in The Breakthrough; it goes straight for the heart. It’s that moment you release a breath not realizing that you’ve been holding it.
                Boone Drake is back and one again tragedy strikes. This time he faces something I’m sure he never thought he would have to –human trafficking. At this point, I have to say this is where mixed feelings begin to develop. Human trafficking is a very real issue that is occurring right now all over the United States, as well as in other countries. I don’t like the way that this issue was dealt with in this book.  It was glossed over, looking back it feels that human trafficking was only a vehicle to get Boone from point A to point B. (It is the vehicle, but anything could have been the vehicle. But I guess what I’m saying is that kid gloves were used when adult gloves were necessary. ) I am not sure if I’m saying this correctly, so let’s just say the human trafficking part didn’t sit well with me. Also, Boone’s ability to just pick up and go after wasn’t very realistic. Other than these bits, I did enjoy this book.
                The scariest thing for a parent is to realize that a strangers has taken their kid. What are the odds that this would happen when one parent is fighting for their life? I’m not sure, but it seems to me that catastrophic tragedies find their way to Boone.  How much can a person take? Boone faces both tragedies head on and puts his head in the game. He pushes his emotions aside so that he can do what he does best – focus on the details.  Yep, Boone goes after the bad guys and all the while he still leans on his faith.  Out of the three books in the Precinct 11 series, this is the most unrealistic one. But I still enjoyed it and still think it’s worth checking out. The beginning, not knowing what was going to happen, the point before everything started unraveling are my favorite moments.
                After it started unfolding, I was drawn more to Boone’s support system. Co-workers coming together. Friends stepping up. I was really interested in Jack Keller this time around. I am relieved that Jenkins didn’t do a clichéd “bow-on-top” ending. Recommendation: I still believe that this book is worth checking out, especially for those who are already fans.

3 Stars ***

The Giveaway: 

I have a voucher from Tyndale for one copy of the Breakthrough

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

Always Shine,

Starr K.

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Review: Blood Eye

Blood Eye by Giles Kristian

Raven #1

Bantam –August 28^th, 2012

448 pages – Adult Fiction

http://www.gileskristian.com/

Facebook: yes

Twitter: @GilesKristian

Source: The Publisher via Edelweiss

Read what this book is about here.

I received a digital galley, free, in exchange for my honest opinion.

                Wow! I can’t say that I am a huge fan of historical fiction, I’m not. I am a ginormous fan of a really good story. I don’t really care what genre that story falls under.  Sometimes, I stay away from certain genres because my lack of exposure to them or my experience with them.  No offense to those who like historical fiction because of the facts that bog down a story, but that is what turns me off from HF. That was not the case with Blood Eye.  It was an amazing bloody story.  Yep, bloody –blood flowed freely off the pages. Sometimes it was mixed with brain matter or intestines, but the pages were drenched with blood. And I loved it. Raven’s story is not for anyone that is faint of heart or weak of stomach. But if you want stories of warriors and battles and fields drenched in blood, without the bitter aftertaste of being sugarcoated, this book is definitely for you.

                One thing that I loved about this story was that it was not nameless violence. Yes, it was violence that may have been avoided at times. But when the battle is over, and Raven is looking over the carnage he is able to name those fallen and laying dead beside him.  Along his journey, Raven encounters warriors who fight against him in one situation, fights beside him in another. If Raven knows the name of the fallen then when he describes the manner of death he honors the warrior by remembering his name.  Is it important to the story? Maybe not, but it’s important to me. I think it also makes Raven stand out among the wolves a little bit more.  

                This was my first Viking adventure, and I definitely want to read more! To clarify, these were Norsemen –not to be confused with the Danes.  Raven was the perfect narrator for this story (this is his story, of course). He was learning what it means to be part of the wolf pack right along with us. The choices he made to embrace his future, instead of looking back at what he lost (and the part he played in it) are difficult choices.  It is a way of life that is contrary to what he is accustomed to, but may be closer to where he began then he knows.  I really felt as if I was sitting by a fire listening to an old story teller. I don’t want to say beautiful for that it is a much too feminine word for a story that is so… masculine at its best.  I think Odin would be proud.

                For those literary folks: the characters were well-developed. They were not flat and did not stay on the page that well. (They were such ill-mannered heathens!)  Each character, whether minor or major, jumped off the page and came to life for their brief bit of story.  The setting was vivid and there were moments when I felt that I could reach out and touch the trees or the walls surrounding a village. It was as real as a storyteller could create. Historical accuracy?  Honestly, don’t care but if you must know, I personally don’t know enough to comment on.

Recommendation: This is definitely a book worth checking out, whether a fan of historical fiction, Viking tales, bloody battles, or amazing storytelling. Go check this book out ASAP!!

What’s next? Sons of Thunder

Always Shine,

Starr K 

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Review: Boneshaker

The Boneshaker by Cherie Priest

Clockwork Century #1

Tor Books – September 29, 2009

416 pages, Adult fiction

http://www.cheriepriest.com/

http://theclockworkcentury.com/

Facebook: Yes

Twitter: @cmpriest

Read what this book is about here.

Source: Louisville Free Public Library
              
I wanted to learn more about the steam punk genre since I had a few for review. I wanted to be fair with my review since these were new books. I asked a friend who was really big into Steam punk and she gave me a whole list of books to read so that I can become familiar with the genre, and there’s a huge variety in the recommendation. When I feel comfortable with the genre, I will move on the review books that I have.
With Boneshaker, I can’t say if I’m more impressed with the work or the author, but either way I am so glad that I took the time to read this one. It was a great starting place for those who are new to the steam punk craze that is slowly growing. I can’t tell you if this is a typical steampunk. But, I can say that it grabbed my attention from the beginning. I found myself immersed in the story and it was really hard to put this book down. It was over before I knew and it was sad to leave this Seattle.
I’m not sure what Seattle was really like in the 1800’s/early 1900’s. That may have put me at an advantage to be able to just enjoy the story. It was easy to imagine what Seattle was like post-blight. There is enough detail that when Blue is walking around the outskirts, it becomes more of visual experience. The Outskirts seems to be a very dark and hard place to live. But the walled city isn’t much better.  I could almost feel myself struggling for breath walking through this desolate city.
As far as the characters go, it is obvious that Priest took the time to develop her characters into three dimensional people. At the end, when everything has been resolved, I still felt as though we have only scratched the surface for the characters. I was (am) certain that they continued on with their lives, walking and growing in the place that they call home.  I can’t really talk about the “steampunk” qualities of the book as if they were a separate entity. It was one package with this story. The machines played their part in making this story come to life.
Though this is not the first steampunk book that I’ve read, it has changed my mind about this genre and I look forward to reading more.
 Recommendation:  If you like zombies, evil scientist greedy for more power, awesome characters who triumph over depressing circumstances then you’ll love  Boneshaker.
What’s next? Clementine
 Always Shine,
Starr K

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Review: Changeling

Changeling by Yasmine Galenorn

Sisters of the Moon #2

Berkley (reissue edition) June 5, 2007

http://www.galenorn.com/

Facebook: Yes

Twitter: @YasmineGalenorn and @SOTM_Sisters

Source: Louisville Free Public Library

Click here to read what this book is about.

I really enjoyed Witchling, it was a great kick off for what is turning out to be an awesome series. There is so much that is beneath the surfaces that it will take a while to uncover all of the secrets of the sisters. There’s so much more to be discovered. This is something that the D’Artigo sisters realize in Changeling. Even though the book tells a complete story, it also leaves you wanting more. Changeling  is from Delilah’s perspective.  She’s a were that turns into a tabby cat. This may not seem so impressive, but Delilah herself is an impressive character.

Even though I knew that Shadow Wing was not defeated, I was really hoping that he would at least be deterred. But of course, he wasn’t not even in the least little bit. Things are rapidly unraveling in Otherworld, and this causes even more havoc Earthside.  Again, the sisters stand up facing the attacks head on when no one else does. Of course, no one else really knows how much danger they are in. Besides all of the things that I learned about the sisters and new powers and abilities that are emerging, Changeling has left me with a huge dislike of spiders.

It is beginning to get easier to visualize the world that the D’Artigo sisters live in, as well as the supernatural creatures that reside there. The second visit to this world it is easier to see how the world is knitting itself together and it’s easier to settle into. I really like the feel of the world. 

All of the sisters have grown since Witchling, but they’ve all done so in their own unique way.  Since Delilah is the voice of this book, it is difficult to see how Camille and Menolly have changed.  Delilah is optimistic and a bit naiive, and she is the one that has the most dramatic change. She also seems to be the one who struggles the most with her identity and place in this world and the other.  Though at the end, all of her identity issues are not resolved, she has found peace and comfort in being who she is.  Still, there is so much more to her – to all of the sisters. I think it won’t come out until it’s time and there’s a reason for it.  Delilah will certainly come into her own. Camille is still twisted up in her love triangle, with the addition of a fourth member.  Menolly is ever the big sister, who is slowly realizing that her little sisters are growing up. The dynamics of the sisters’ relationships with each other is realistic and that pulls you into the story even more.

While I could keep going and talk about the secondary characters that pop up and find a way to grab your attention, I won’t. The bad guys are definitely nastier this time. The battle is even more challenging and draining.  The character development is exciting, and tells me that I won’t be leaving this series anytime soon. They are not the same people that we met on Book 1, and that makes me very happy. They are stronger and even more capable  of dealing with the events that are unfolding. I love watching characters grow.

Recommendation:  This is a must for those who are fans of witches, vampires, weres and other supernatural beings. Yep, there’s even a dragon.

What's Next?  Darkling 

Always Shine,

Starr K

Review: Heart Echoes

Heart Echoes by Sally John

Side Roads series

Tyndale House Publishers, Inc – February 17, 2012

http://www.sally-john.com/

Source: The publisher, for review

Rating: Compelling, heart-wrenching and inspiring.

Click here to read what this book is about.

Teal Morgan-Adams is married to River Adams and she has a fifteen year old daughter, Maiya.  They have lived in Los Angeles long enough to be used to earthquakes and crazy traffic. But there’s something different about this one, it throws everyone through a loop; causing them to question and to seek. It heightens Maiya’s desire to know her biological father, and strengthens Teal’s attempt to keep her secrets. Teal turns to the people and the place that she has run from for the past nine years. Teal’s heart echoes with the pain of her past, the lies she was told and the secrets that she’s held. But, in the end she discovers what it means to share the truth and in so doing finds a new definition of family.

It doesn’t happen often that a book compels me to read late into the night or to pick it up first thing in the morning. Or at least it hasn’t happened recently. But this one did. I like romances, not the kind that based in wishful-thinking-land. While, I wouldn’t say that this is purely a romance, I enjoyed that aspect of it, mainly because the characters were so flawed. Not in an over-the-top way, but in a way that makes them human –makes them real.  I could say that this story is about family, it’s really about fathers and the roles that they play in our life. Fathers impact us whether they are present and abusive, absent and abandoning, absent and unknowing or present and loving. Heart Echoes shows examples of each in a way that is subtle as well as gentle, harsh and abrasive as well as flawed, true as well as tangibly real.

I enjoyed the dynamics of the characters. They were so well written that they jumped off the page. I felt like a fly on the wall. This was beautiful as well as heartbreaking.

Recommendation: I recommend this title for anyone who enjoys a good story, who enjoys flawed and alive characters. I will be looking to read more by this author.

What’s next: I looked at the website and didn’t see anything mentioning any upcoming books.

A copy of this novel was given to me free in exchange for my honest opinion. 
Always Shine,

Starr K

Review: the Next Target

The Next Target by Nikki Arana

 David C. Cook – June 1, 2012

http://www.nikkiarana.com/

Facebook:  Yes

Twitter: @nikkiarana

Source: Netgalley

Rating: Moving and compelling.

Click here to read what this story is about

           

            To be completely honest, I didn’t like this book at first. It kind of felt like being pounded over the head with the Bible, with someone’s faith that was not my own.  But that was in the beginning of the book, before the story really started to unravel.   That was before I understood and connected with the characters.  Now that I finished it, and reflecting on everything that happened, I can honestly say that I enjoyed the journey.

            The suspense, once it kicked into gear, had me sitting on the edge of my seat. It had me talking to the characters, momentarily forgetting that they weren’t real. There were some heightened moments of panic when I knew that though Austia was trying to do what she felt led to do, she was also about to make a big mistake, she was going to trust the wrong person. Austia was a character with a lot of faith and courage. She became someone that I admired for her willingness to go and do exactly what she thought God was leading her to in a manner filled with love instead of hate.

Though I did come to really enjoy this story, I have to admit that I hated the romance part of it completely.  Austia and Zaki’s romance happened way too fast for me and it came across as disingenuous. Zaki goes from this hardened undercover agent to this man so blinded by love that he can’t think straight character. The fact that she was okay with Dave and ignored all the warning bells that something wasn’t right, played into the storyline that fanatical Muslims would stop at nothing and they could pop up anywhere. This may be true, but the only two reasons that Austia trusted Dave were because her brother introduced them and his name was the same as her dead ex-husband. Neither reason was enough to trust so blindly.  While I think Austia’s relationship with her brother was pretty accurate, I am curious to see his reaction when (if) he ever finds out everything that went wrong with his attempt to invite her neighbors over for dinner.

This story is heartbreaking, not just because innocent people died because of the religious fanaticism and intolerance.  The most disturbing part of this story is the truth that honor killings still go on today and background believers suffer so much. .After giving up everything that have known and grown accustomed to (if not accepted at some point) they face constant suspicion and distrust.

Recommendation:  

I would definitely recommend everyone to read this, regardless of religious preference, and ignore the romance aspect.

A copy of this book was given to me, free, in exchange for my honest opinion.

Always Shine,

Starr K

Related Links:

Review: I Am Second

I Am Second: Real Stories. Changing Lives by Doug Bender and  Dave Sterrett

Thomas Nelson  – January 3, 2012

http://davesterrett.com/

http://www.iamsecond.com/

Facebook:  Yes, Doug Bender, and I am Second

Twitter: @Iamsecond, @DougBender, @davesterrett

 

Rating: The stories are powerful and full of hope, I really enjoyed this read.

Source: Thomas Nelson, for review

Click here to read what this story is about

           

            I had never heard of the I Am Second Movement. Yes, I mean movement. This is so much more than just a book, but I didn’t know that until after I read it and browsed the webpage. But in a way, I am glad that it’s a movement. Sometimes you read an intensely good read about life and you wonder who’s really living like this? But I Am Second is the stories of people who have chosen to live a life where they are not in control.  They have chosen to give up what wasn’t working in their lives, the secrets and addictions that they hid behind in exchange for extreme faith.  I say extreme faith, because there are complacent Christians and there are Christians who do “just enough”. Those who follow in the path of being second are not complacent and they are not doing “just enough”.

            The collection of stories was powerful and filled with people who I knew or heard of and people that I had no clue about.  On the website, when watching the videos, I found that there were even more people who had chosen the path of the second.  They didn’t gloss over their “before” lives so it made a huge impact when they talked about their lives “after”.  At the end of reading this book, a Bible verse came to mind, “His master replied, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!” ( Matthew 25:21). I think these are the words that those who choose to be second will hear.

Recommendation:  If you are interested in learning about how the Christian faith can change your life, regardless of where you are, you will definitely enjoy this book. If you are interested in going deeper in your own Christian walk, you will definitely enjoy this book.

A copy of this book was given to me, free, in exchange for my honest opinion.

Always Shine,

Starr K

Related Links:

Review: The Last Werewolf

The Last Werewolf by Glen Duncan

Knopf – July 12, 2011

Facebook:  Yes (The Last Werewolf)

Twitter: @werewolfthelast

Rating: This was an adventurous read and I definitely recommend it! 

Source: Louisville Free Public Library

Click hereto read what this story is about

           

            For the most part,  I have been reading a lot of YA or the kind that could go for adults or YA, which mean that they were safe. Although, I enjoy all genres, too much of one thing is – well too much. So The Last Werewolf was a much needed read for me. It took me a while to get into this book. But on the recommendation of a colleague, I pushed through. I am so glad that I did. Once I made it through the whining, angst and self-pity the story really picked up. Don’t get me wrong, I was compelled to keep reading from the beginning.  But Jacob Marlow is a real whiner.

            After reading the last page, all I could say is “wow!” There really is quite a story inside, and it will take you to all sorts of different places. Are the “goo” guys really good? Are the “bad” guys all that bad? Two questions that are hard to answer when there really aren’t any true good guys around. Jacob turns out to be an okay sort- for a 201 year old werewolf. I guess if I was to live that long without purpose or love, I would find it difficult to not want to give up too. I do like the fact that Jacob didn’t want to kill himself, but only wanted to stop fighting the inevitable.

            When Jacob finds Tallula, three things happen. First, he finds purpose and love to keep living and not go gently. Secondly, the story gets a kick in the pants and picks up the pace. Finally, Tallula steals the show.  She’s really a better werewolf than Jacob is.  But this is subtle and it in no way displaces Jacob.

            The ending. Oh man, the ending!!!! The ending and the switch sneaks up on you with such grace and gentleness that it’s almost natural. I love it! I want to talk about it! I won’t, it is so much better if you experience it for yourself.  The ending is the redeeming of all the whining one had to go through to reach this point, and even if the rest of the book was slightly horrible, the ending would make it all worth it. Naturally, I like the violence that is insulated in the bones of any werewolf story. But there is a beauty here that is not found elsewhere.  This is the werewolf story that is transformed into something other. Well done Duncan, well done!! I am impressed.

Always Shine,

Starr K

Review: A Stranger's Gift

A Stranger’s Gift by Tom Hallman Jr.

Howard Books – April 3, 2012

Tomahallman.com

Facebook:  Yes

Twitter: thallmanjr

Source: Libby Reed from Howard Books for Review 

Rating: This book wasn’t for me. 

I received a copy of this book, free of charge, in exchange for my honest opinion.

Click here to read what this story is about

           

            This is a book that I struggled a lot with. Faith is such a deeply personal experience that I am not sure if my opinion even matters. I didn’t really connect with the stories of the people’s faith experiences. This may be due to the fact that I was never really sure what the book was supposed to be about. Originally, I thought that it was a collection of individual faith experiences. But as I began to read it, it sounded more Hallman’s journey to find it. In a way it is a book about both, but falls flat and lands nowhere.

            Though there were a variety of people that tell their story, I felt that it was often repetitive. Besides that, everyone essentially said the same thing. I am very appreciative of the opportunity to read and review A Stranger’s Gift, I am sorry that I didn’t enjoy it more.

Always Shine,

Starr K

Review: Yesterday's Daughter

Yesterday’s Daughter by Sallie Lundy-Frommer

CreateSpace – January 24, 2011

www.yesterdaysdaughter.blogspot.com

Facebook:  Yes

Twitter: Slfrommer

Rating: Slow start, but when it picks up it’s amazing. 

Click here to read what this story is about

           

            Immediately I am curious about Grace, who believes and acts as if she is a vampire. But, if it wasn’t for this strange fact becoming known right at the beginning, I am not sure if I would feel engaged in the story. I know that the beginning is the time to lay the foundation, but there is a lot of showing and not telling . I was slow to catch the rhythm of the voice of the writer. For me, at first, I was turned off by the amount of words it took to say something. But do not for one second be mistaken, this is a truly awesome book.

            For me, everything started picking up and falling into place at Chapter 6.  

At this point it is so much easier to get lost in the story. Though, I have to say that there are moments when the flow is interrupted by the overuse or repetition of certain words. Yes, this is nitpicky things to mention, but I am only mentioning these minor flaws in the hopes that it helps. I want another book by Sallie Lundy-Frommer. She is very talented, and overall this story is amazing.  So on to the things I liked about this story.

            I really liked the original idea behind it, this was a fresh take on an old idea of vampires and vampire hunters. Some would complain about the overexplaining (maybe) but in truth it really is necessary. It is the only way to make Grace and Malachi’s love special and believable instead of quick and unfitting.  There is a lot that would be missed without the knowledge gained throughout the book. At the beginning it seems a slow and unbearable pace, but the characters move you to keep going.

            Grace is weird. I mean, who really believes and acts as if they are a vampire without proof?  But she is also a strong and great female lead. There is something about her that doesn’t become clear until Malachi comes into the picture.  She has the strength to be the deadliest creature but what you see is a gentleness that is the perfect balance for Malachi.  Malachi is every woman’s dream; he is strong, masculine and protective as well as sensitive and intimate.  Though it is their destiny to be together, and all evidence points to Grace being dead, Malachi holds onto an unexplained hope.  He doesn’t sit around waiting for Grace to come back into his life, he goes looking for her. Time did nothing to change their fate, except perhaps make them stronger for it.

            There are so many things that I could say about the actual story, but in truth I wasn’t completely prepared for the ending. I mean some of it I could see coming. Some of it I couldn’t and that made the story so much better for me.  The ending  left me wanting more of Malachi and Grace’s story because I know that there is so much yet to be discovered and I am certain that there are more obstacles to be tackled.

Always Shine,

Starr K

Review: Curse of the Egyptian Goddess

Curse of the Egyptian Goddess by Lisa Rayns

CreateSpace – October 31, 2011

www.lisarayns.com

Facebook: Yes

Twitter: LisaRayns

 Source: the author, for review

A copy of this book was given to me, free, in exchange for my honest opinion. 

Rating: It was okay with a disappointing ending

Click here to read what this story is about

           

This was a novella, so it was a rather quick read. While there were moments that I enjoyed, and I definitely liked Emma and Calvin’s character, there were moments that I didn’t connect with the story. I think I liked the idea of the story more than the story itself.  I enjoyed Calvin and Emma’s romance and situation; the ending changed everything for me. The romance was cut off at a pretty hot moment and there wasn’t a satisfying resolution at the end.

            I hated the ending and felt that it was just a way to end the story instead of a place that the author arrived at.  I like all different types of ending, they don’t have to be the kind where everything is happy, I only request that they come naturally; happy or sad. I think it would help if the story was fleshed out a little more.

Always Shine,

Starr K

Review of Witchling by Yasmine Galenorn

Witchling by Yasmine Galenorn

Sisters of the Moon Book 1

Berkley – October 3, 2006

http://www.galenorn.com/

Facebook: Yes

Twitter: @YasmineGalenorn and @SOTM_Sisters

Source: Louisville Free Public Library

Read what this book is about here.

               

                I heard of this author from a fellow book blogger. She was reviewing a different book in the series and the cover looked amazing. So what did I do? I went to the library and checked out. It sat and sat and sat on the pile as I moved through others on that pile or my other pile. I knew that I wanted to read it but I wasn’t pressed to do it immediately.  Then I started reading it, and I must say that I enjoyed it. I enjoyed the characters and the action. I can’t really say that I was transported into the story; some of the settings weren’t detailed enough for me to visualize. Like Otherworld, the homeland of the three sisters and the other Fae-folk. For some people that would have been a deal breaker. Is it important? Sometimes - if the setting is supposed to act as a character in the book, or if it plays an actual role and holds some significance to the plot than it’s important. If it is just used to transport you from one place to another than no so much. Otherworld is important to the sisters, which makes it important to the story. But only so you can understand how much of an outsider the sisters were and so you can understand their homesickness. This was accomplished without focusing too much on the actual description the place. Home can change settings for many people but it will never change the way it makes us feel. Can you enjoy the tale of Delilah, Menolly and Camille without falling into Otherworld or Earthside (their current home)? Oh yes, you most certainly can! Or at least I can.

                The characters spark to life and force you to focus on them and the action and emotion that they’re tangled up in at the moment. You are totally engaged in Camille’s bout with temptation-pretty much wherever she finds a hot guy. (Ok, maybe that was a little exaggeration, but she is definitely in tune with the sexual side of the world).  While, each sister has a role to play in the story, Witchling seemed to focus more on Camille then the other two. 

                She tough and sexy, and I couldn’t help but immediately liking this character.  There was enough vulnerability and “girlness” that she was believable. I will definitely be keeping an eye out for the rest of this series.

 Always Shine, 

Starr K