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The Silent Journey

Such a sweet tender story about a deaf young girls and how she accomplishes an incredible journey to find her father. I love how the writer tells the story for the girls point of view, seeing a world through the vale of a foreign deaf child. Such an incredible story perspective. The author does an excellent job at capturing the historical setting in the story and bringing to life a distant reality of the past. I found her ability to draw the reader along in the young girls journey and frame the reality of the world she was trying to understand through the kindness of people and their generosity to help others, despite their own personal struggles. Cannot recommend this book enough.

Seven hills

By transporting the reader to the past, when Rome was the most powerful empire to rule over most of Europe, Hazel exposes the reader to a world and era that are different from what is known today. Her literary skill captures the tumultuous time under Emperor Nero, when a new religious organization known as "The Way" was gaining traction among the populace and was persecuted. Two sisters who are trying to live out their faith and follow Christ find themselves in the midst of this conflict between religious intolerance. True friendships are put to the test, as loyalty and trust are weighed against the larger fear of being found out. Throughout the novel, Hazel's capacity to spread the word of God's love to His people is interwoven.
Even though the two sisters are in grave peril, they never waver in their commitment to God throughout the entire book. Because Seven Hills One Light is so brilliantly written, the reader can identify with each of the sisters. Their sacrifices in rejecting the ways of the world, their hesitancy to hold fast to the Word, and their efforts to be devoted to God. Reading this book is a great way to understand about the early church, including the difficulties they encountered, the secrecy they had to live under, and the threats that were present everywhere. Totally recommend this book and eagerly looking forward to her next one.

West of Santillne

Such an enjoyable book. You always hear about the famous Lewis and Clark expedition, but never the about what happens after the great expedition. Allen's brings the world of Lewis and Clark alive through the eyes of Julia Clark. The world they lived in and highlights the transformative years in early America. Her exceptional talent in adding details, depth, and layers to the story, as she discusses the beginnings for abolitionist movement involving slavery in the United States. The interpersonal relationships between historical characters takes the reader into the world of early America. Reading through the book, I was drawn into the lives of each character wanting to discover more about their struggles within their sociological sphere. The book flows so well and pulled me along with each joyful moment to each tearful section. As a historian, I was blessed to learn new information about the lives of William Clark, Meriwether Lewis, and Julia Clark; and read familiar names I have studied through history, mentioned in the book. Definitely a great read. You won't be disappointed. Now I want to learn how to Dresden bobbin lace.

Deceptions of the Future

In the aftermath of Eliana Whitmore, tragic loss of her beloved soulmate. The second book in the series, Deception, reveals her struggle of how she's trying to navigate the loss of her beloved Aaron and the responsibilities that have been thrust upon her. Her journey is both riveting and emotionally elevating to read as she struggles to validate her emotional healing and emotional growth at the same time with the care and love of her companions, Shiro, Cheon, Lacey, Sebastian and Gareth. It is a time riveting book that pulls the reader over along to each step of Eliana's journey. Aberge's gift at writing is further expounded upon, as she develops character growth in Eliana, but also her companions. The sub-plots within the story allow the companion characters to come alive, and demonstrate that they too have a stack in the game. It is an inviting tale and a very engaging story that the readers are unable to put down, as each page reveals another layer in the fast-paced journey of how Eliana and her company come to understand her true meaning and purpose in saving the angelic world. Julia's true skills are seen in how she drops a major twist within the book, which throws Eliana and her friends into a tale spin in their mission. The mirroring sub-story that transpires is so well written that the pain and internal struggle is seen through each character. With the loss of Aaron, she knew and loved, she is torn between her duty and her heart. It is the most amazing tale, and fascinating for the reader to read. I was not disappointed, savoring each page turned, and the emotional journey that Eliana Whitmore underwent as she searches for family, friends, and soul-mate, but also the worlds. I found the book to be a fantastic read.

The last Refuge

I found the Last Refuge to be a tantalizing journey into a world full of intrigue and mystery. Throughout the book the author pulls the reader along through each character development. What originated as a simple baseline story soon takes on complex twists as the reader experiences each character growth mirroring the greater story unfolding in each chapter. Blackburn’s skill in bringing the story alive through his descriptive words, adds new depth to the success of the book. Reading through the book, I found myself seeking to unwrap the next chapter eager to see where the story goes next. There was never a time when I felt the story drag, rather the speed of events transpiring within each page only heightened my anticipation for what as to come. Blackburn’s talent in writing shows in how he unravels the story line, but at the same time, holds back key elements, allowing the reader to maintain the same pace of discovery as the characters. This aspect of the book I really enjoyed because I was held in suspense without knowing the end of the story by the middle of the book. In conclusion of the book, several questions remained unanswered setting up the 2nd book in the series with as much anticipation as I had for the first. I am looking forward to reading the second book, eager to find out what other mysteries lurk around each corner, and find the answers to the ones that remain unresolved. Definitely recommend this book to other readers seeking to read an adventure engaging story.

When Mocks the Myna

Umbrage ability to bring the story alive, made the book hard to put down as the story of Myna and her journey to save children. Within the framework of the story, Umbrage does an excellent job building Myna character within the scope of the central story plot of the book. The depth of her character revealed throughout the story pulls the reader quickly into to the world of sinister criminal activity, as each page adds more to the story being unfolded. I do not typically read hero stories, but I am glad I made an exception. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book and watching Myna come to life. I wish more hero's were written like her. I would highly recommend When Mocks The Myna, excellent read and very thought provoking story. A true hero story for the modern world. I am hoping to see future hero stories from Umbrage as the first two books were excellent and set the bar above the traditional hero genre.

Redwing Calls

The story begins with an established history being alluded to, so the reader jumps in the middle of Redwings life, and witnesses the toil he has endured from years of crime fighting. While Redwing can boast of years of successes in putting criminals away, the reader is pulled into Redwings deeper hidden struggles, which he has failed to conquer. The story is told from two storylines, one from the perspective of Redwing personal struggles in life and the other through the lens of solving a deeper plot unfolding in the city. Umbrage duel story telling offers the reader unique insight in two worlds of one character seeking to solve two battles. The first book in the series quickly pulls the readers into Redwings life as he seeks to maintain loyalties of his faithful friends knowing that time is precious; amidst the backdrop of the greater threat imposed upon the City of Dallas, Texas. A good read with the promise of additional books to come. Would definitely recommend.

Thorns among shadows

l've always enjoyed a good variation on a classic, and Ally Kelly delivered on that promise. She created a new universe for the reader to explore by adding a new layer to the beloved tale of Rapunzel. Kelly created a rich, detailed universe for the reader to immerse themselves in throughout the book, bringing the narrative to life. I was able to visualize the story on a deeper level as I read each word. I liked every character right away and eagerly anticipated learning more about them with every page flip. This fantastic book takes a well-known tale and adds new depths to it. Totally recommend reading, won't be disappointed.

Talesman and teacups

Such an enjoyable book. Sterling has a knack for pulling the reader along through the intertwine journey of Penelope Sedgwick adventure in solving the mystery of a murder that her uncle was framed for. The book if full of whimsical moments, that I found myself laughing hysterically about.

The character take on a life of there own as Sterling pokes fun of the Regency culture. So many favorites in the book, especially the side notes for the reader. The book was so enjoyable to read, but also took on an air of seriousness as the overall undertone of the central plot in the book. I am eagerly looking forward to a sequel book. There is so many mysteries the regency world left to my imagination. Great book to read and enjoy. Totally recommend to anyone who is looking for a twist and turn hilarious book, that leaves a lasting impression on the reader; this is a book for you.

Crystal Dynasty

The Crystal Dynasty book was an amazing twist on hero and villain perspective. Mader's skill at playing on the readers connection with the characters makes the book hard to put down. On one hand the reader is aware the villain is evil, but there is sympathy for her plight. Despite the evolution of the villain, one cannot help but have pity on her, and also know her true nature and aspiration are not pure. Mader's talent draws the reader into the worlds of the primary and secondary characters, providing the reader the ability to connect with each character. Each person comes alive leaping off the page with life, feeling, and purpose for the side they choose. Overall, Crystal Dynasty is a fantastic book creating a new perspective on hero versus villain roles. Must read for the adventuring heart.

Soul Forge

An incredible voyage into a fascinating and fantastical universe. Through all forms of fantasy literature, Georgia May transports the reader to an unimaginable realm teeming with a diverse array of creatures. Her ability to make her characters come to life on every page reveals how she ties each creature to the others. Beneath her story, there is a world that struggles to navigate the difficulties of people with diverse cultures, economic well-being, authority, and fairness. The story plot experiences a heightened level of hardship as a result of the cultural differences. The book Soul Forge emphasizes everything that is visible, but it might not be the truth; instead, she reveals the nuanced aspects of individuals and how they deal with the challenges of growing into their role that they were destined for.

The reader is kept interested in Soul Forge by its captivating plot, which is full of unexpected turns. Since the supporting characters are also developed and given a depth of personality of their own, each character assumes a life of their own. For those who enjoy fantasy, this book is unquestionably a must-read. This have-paced fantasy book will have you hooked.

Temptations of the past

Temptations of the Past is an amazing book that takes place in two different worlds: the real world and another where magic, angels, good and evil, and the unbelievable occur. I found myself attracted into both worlds throughout the novels, trying to solve the riddles as they were revealed via Ellie's experiences. Aberg does a fantastic job of guiding the reader and the main character across both realms, using the ties from the past to establish Ellie's character. I was drawn in as a reader to Ellie's battle to make sense of her past and the reality that was emerging in front of her. She battled her own knowledge of her tragic upbringing, her clinging to what she perceived to be her truth, and her mourning over the loss she had gone through. Aberg highlights Ellie's character issues as her greatest strength while drawing on what may be considered her faults. I thoroughly loved reading Temptations of the Past, and I'm excited for more of Aberg's work. An excellent novel that was hard to put down.

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The second book in the Tomewright Chronicles proved to be just as enticing as the first. The Stone of Strife picks up where the first book left off and continues the story that has been woven throughout the series. Blackburn adds new depth to characters by having the reader experience the journey of spiritual growth and maturity alongside the character. One cannot help but to empathize with each one as they struggle in their personal development throughout the book. Within each chapter vivid details leaped from the pages and pulled the reader deeper into the story.
Just like the first book, I found myself unable to put the book down eager to discover new mysteries being unvaled as the land of Akeldemah came to life. Although the book appears to conclude in the final chapter, Blackburn leaves the reader with burning questions that remain unanswered, and hints that all might not be well in Akeldemah. I am looking forward to reading the third book in the series and discover the answers to several questions that remain.
The Stone of Strife is a great read that will take the reader on an adventurous journey in the lands laced in Jewish and Celtic culture.
Edited •

A Layman's Guide to Christian Growth by Ron Carswell (Published-Amazon)

Mrs. Moczygemba was a reviewer/editor on my recent book, A Layman's Guide to Christian Growth. She served as a development editor, involved in the content of a book, and a line editor, consisting of the language.
She looked at global, big-picture issues, such as sequence of ideas, order of presentation of ideas, incorrect or missing information, repetition of material, and more.
When she did the line edit, she paid attention to the language of the content, not so much its correctness, but its smoothness, and clarity, and variation. She suggested changes made my words flow with speed, grace, accuracy, and simplicity.
She was punctual in returning her review.
-Ron Carswell