Review of All the Lost Places by Amanda Dykes

About the Book ~

When all of Venice is unmasked, one man's identity remains a mystery . . .

1807
When a baby is discovered floating in a basket along the quiet canals of Venice, a guild of artisans takes him in and raises him as a son, skilled in each of their trades. Although the boy, Sebastien Trovato, has wrestled with questions of his origins, it isn't until a woman washes ashore on his lagoon island that answers begin to emerge. In hunting down his story, Sebastien must make a choice that could alter not just his own future, but also that of the beloved floating city.

1904
Daniel Goodman is given a fresh start in life as the century turns. Hoping to redeem a past laden with regrets, he is sent on an assignment from California to Venice to procure and translate a rare book. There, he discovers a city of colliding hope and decay, much like his own life, and a mystery wrapped in the pages of that filigree-covered volume. With the help of Vittoria, a bookshop keeper, Daniel finds himself in a web of shadows, secrets, and discoveries carefully kept within the stones and canals of the ancient city . . . and in the mystery of the man whose story the book does not finish: Sebastien Trovato.

For more information about Amanda Dykes and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

If you're looking for a story that has the qualities of water -- life-giving, moving, and beautiful! -- then you must experience the whimsical journey that is All the Lost Places by Amanda Dykes!

All the Lost Places was a magical journey! This bookish journey to Venice brought the legendary city to life in a way that highlights the restorative power of story. Also, I need a book boat! I absolutely LOVED the premise of a book within a book! As Daniel translated the mysterious text, I enjoyed how the story took over, showing in such a simple yet profound way how a reader becomes immersed within a book as the story takes on a life of its own. Some of the lyrical descriptions and jumping around was a bit jarring for me, leaving me a bit lost at times; however, there is no question that All the Lost Places was beautifully written! Although this was a story of found hope and life, there was also loss and death in the journey. Some things may be triggering for those who have experienced medical trauma and loss. 

The spiritual thread in All the Lost Places was every bit as intwined, deep, and moving as you'd expect from this lyrical journey. Through both circumstances beyond their control and of their own making, Sebastian and Daniel are plagued with the question, "Who am I?" Though as different as could be with reverse Cinderella vibes and a reformed thief, this question is answered through all the wondrous aspects of found family (including a dash of romance!) and the devotion of the only Man who could pay the price.

Three Stars ~ All the Lost Places by Amanda Dykes is a work of art! All the Lost Places is a standalone, but the author has other books in her backlist for readers to enjoy.

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girls. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!

Interview with Author Gail Kittleson

Today we're going to pry into the private life chat with fellow author Gail Kittleson! 

Virtual or not, we are all friends here. Since we are all friends, you should know that one of my favorite things to do is talk with my friends at coffee shops and browse the bookstores. Yes, plural. After all, books and yummy drinks are the perfect combination! So consider this our virtual coffee shop. I'll wait a second for you to get your warm drink and a fuzzy blanket before we chat with Gail. <3

When Gail's not steeped in World War II historical research, writing, or editing, you'll find her reading for fun, gardening, or enjoying her grandchildren in Northern Iowa. She delights in interacting with readers who fall in love with her characters.

Gail Kittleson taught college expository writing and ESL before writing women’s historical fiction. From northern Iowa, she facilitates writing workshops and women’s retreats, and enjoys the Arizona Ponderosa forest in winter.

Connect with Gail Kittleson on her website, Facebook, Amazon, Twitter, Instagram, and BookBub!

Interview ~

This may be the most important question I ask -- no pressure or anything, LOL!

*drum roll*

What are you drinking in our virtual coffee house? Coffee? Tea? Hot chocolate? something else altogether?

Tea…a steaming cup hits the spot just about any time. My heroines feel the same, especially those living through WWII, when tea was rationed. Imagine how much a cup of tea came to mean back then. My pioneer heroine loves tea, too—what a coincidence! 

Love when our characters have pieces of us in them! If you could order anything in the world to eat (we can dream, can't we?), what would it be?

I think a crusty salmon filet with sweet potato fries and a fresh salad.

Yum! Where is your favorite place to write, and why is that your favorite place? 

Whether I’m in Iowa or Arizona, as long as I have my laptop, my office, the living room or the front porch—any of the above.

Sounds wonderful! Do you have an odd habit that is only explained by your bookish, writer tendencies? Safe space. You're among friends. ;-)

Mmm…maybe letting time slip by, forgetting to eat or do housework? I don’t see these as so odd, but they’re definitely connected to my writing.

I can relate to that! What inspired you to write Secondhand Sunsets? 

We spend the worst of the winter in the Arizona mountains, under the Mogollon Rim. This area has such intriguing geography, and right away, we noticed there is really no sunset or sunrise, because of the Rim right above us. But we do see the sun “rise” on the western side, across the canyon, and in the evening, sometimes there’s an incredibly rosy hue to the eastern side. That’s a reflection of the sunset. These aspects of our setting are so different from my native Iowa, where everything is flat, that this aspect plays a significant role in the life of my heroine.

In addition, I became interested in the Native Americans who once lived here, plus the weather extremes. At the time I started this novel, the Civil War era/pioneer times interested me, also. Because this area is so isolated, I began to imagine a young woman living here with virtually no contact with anyone but her husband. And his value system left a lot to be desired . . .

That is so cool! What led you to write in this genre? 

I hadn’t yet become addicted to the WWII era, for one thing. I may have thought “pioneer” stories would be the easiest for me to write—at least, I kept trying. I left several other pioneer manuscripts by the wayside, but this one just wouldn’t leave me alone. And it needed SO MUCH help!!

Love when a story won't leave you alone! What message do you hope to convey to your readers?

No matter how convoluted our lives become, the complications our bad decision lead to, or the extent of the shame we feel, our God never forsakes us.

Amen! Can you tell us a little about your next project(s)? 

I’ve written a Texas Hill Country novel—WWII. It’s unique in that the hero emigrates from England before the war, so he sees things through British eyes. Also, I have a cozy WWII mystery just about ready for submission.

These sound amazing! Do you have a favorite Bible verse or story that inspires you on a soul level?

I love the story of the woman who touches Jesus’ robe to be healed of her hemorrhaging. Her need is met beyond her wildest dreams—including the shame that accompanied her physical agony. Isn’t it wonderful that we often receive more than we realize we need?

Such a powerful example of God's love! What are you currently reading? Inquiring minds -- mine -- want to know! ;-)

I just finished Prayers For Sale by Sandra Dallas. I don’t often read a book twice, but this one was just as powerful the second time through. Next, I might tackle Victor Davis Hanson’s Carnage and Culture. Not light reading!

Nice! Thank you so much for hanging with us, Gail!

Check out Secondhand Sunsets by Gail Kittleson!

Available on Amazon, Amazon Kindle, Barnes & Noble Nook, Kobo, Apple Books, 

and Google Play Books!

Thanks for hanging with us today! See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girl. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!

Review of A Dance in Donegal by Jennifer Deibel

About the Book ~

All her life, Boston-born Moira Doherty has relished her mother's descriptions of the Emerald Isle. When her mother dies unexpectedly in the summer of 1920, Moira is compelled to fulfill her dying wish--that she become the teacher in Ballymann, the beloved village in Donegal, Ireland, she's heard so much about.

After an arduous voyage, Moira begins a challenging new job in an unfamiliar and ancient country. Though a few locals offer a warm welcome, others are distanced by superstition and suspicion. Rumors about Moira's mother are unspoken in her presence but threaten to derail everything she's journeyed to Ballymann to do. Moira must rely on the kindness of a handful of friends--and the strength of Sean, an unsettlingly handsome thatcher who keeps popping up unannounced--as she seeks to navigate a life she'd never dreamed of . . . but perhaps was meant to live.

For more information about Jennifer Deibel and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

You'll want to dance a jig after reading A Dance in Donegal by Jennifer Deibel!

The most delightful part of A Dance in Donegal is how it was like classic Christian historical romance meets Leap Year -- one of my favorite romcoms! The initial conflict between the hero (a sarcastic yet charming Irishman) and the heroine (an American with little knowledge of the Irish way of life) tugged a smile to my lips. Additionally, the romantic word paintings of Irish culture, language, and landscape only hinted at the alluring depths of the author's knowledge of Ireland. Truly grand! Add in a dash of mystery and plenty of conflict, and your eyes will be dancing through the pages! 

A Dance in Donegal surprised me, taking unexpected turns in the storyline. However, I was touched by how the author blended these twists and turns into not only a concise plot but also a striking spiritual message! While I didn't end up in love with the characters, Moira's spiritual journey was as arresting as the descriptive landscape surrounding her. After confronting the worst in herself, Moira faces the consequences of following God's call for her life -- the good, bad, and the ugly. This proved to be a glorious stage for God's redemptive grace, a soul stirring reminder of how God works in our lives!

Four Stars ~ A Dance in Donegal by Jennifer Deibel is a sweeping romance with depth! A Dance in Donegal is a standalone story, but I'm looking forward to reading the author's next sweeping Irish romance. However, please be aware that there is sexual abuse and sexual harassment in A Dance in Donegal that could be triggering.

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girl. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!

Review of Tidewater Bride by Laura Frantz

About the Book ~ 

They're both too busy for love . . . but love is not too busy for them.

Selah Hopewell seems to be the only woman in Virginia Colony who has no wish to wed. True, there are too many men and far too few women in James Towne. But Selah already has her hands full assisting her father in the family's shop. And now she is in charge of an incoming ship of tobacco brides who must be looked after as they sort through their many suitors.

Xander Renick is perhaps the most eligible tobacco lord in the settlement. His lands are vast, his crops are prized, and his position as a mediator between the colonists and the powerful Powhatan nation surrounding them makes him indispensable. But Xander is already wedded to his business and still grieves the loss of his wife.

Can two fiercely independent people find happiness and fulfillment on their own? Or will they discover that what they've been missing in life has been right in front of them all along?

For more information about Laura Frantz and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~ 

Tidewater Bride by Laura Frantz has the makings of a fairytale classic!

I'm one of those people who reads the author's note at the end of the book before I start reading the story. Because of that, I went into Tidewater Bride knowing how much Pocahontas and John Rolfe inspired this tale. The author's phenomenal talent at immersing the reader into the era is uncanny! From speech to dress to description, every detail surrounding this fictional James Towne scream authenticity. The romance between Selah and Xander proved to be exceptionally compelling because it was seeped with historical details. In fact, I prefer this happy ending to the one in the history books AND the Disney version I grew up with -- and I usually prefer Disney's take on a story!

Though framed in the trials and hardships of the era, I found Tidewater Bride to be a beacon of God's unchanging truths that are so desperately needed in today's world! Watching Selah and Xander navigate the unfortunate reality that evil lurks in any corner was agonizing; however, watching God bring those things to light was glorious! Selah and Xander's story proudly trumpets that God is in control, and the Gospel is for all.

Four Stars ~ Tidewater Bride by Laura Frantz will charm readers with its whimsical reimagining of history! Tidewater Bride is a standalone, but the author has other titles in her backlist for readers to enjoy!

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girl. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!

Review of To Dwell among Cedars by Connilyn Cossette

About the Book ~

As they fight for the soul of Israel, will they find healing for their own?

Eight years ago, after the Philistines surrendered the stolen Ark of the Covenant back to the Israelites, Eliora and her brother left their Philistine homeland to follow it to the community of Kiryat-Yearim. Though they both were lovingly enfolded into a Levite family that guards the Ark, Eliora can't stop feeling like she doesn't belong.

Meanwhile, a faction of discontent Hebrews finds Kiryat-Yearim to be an unfit resting place and believes that the sacred vessel should be in the hands of the priests who mean to restore the Holy of Holies in a new location. Under the guise of gathering Hebrews to worship together for the festivals, Levite musician Ronen has been sent by his uncle to find where the Ark has been hidden and steal it back. But Ronen never expected that the Philistine girl he rescued years ago would now be part of the very family he's tasked to deceive.

Ronen's attempts to charm Eliora into revealing the location of the Ark lead them in unexpected directions, as they must battle betrayal and fear to help establish Israel's leadership for a better future.

For more information about Connilyn Cossette and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

My feelings on To Dwell among Cedars by Connilyn Cossette can be summed up with a verse:

"It is the glory of God to conceal things, but the glory of kings is to search things out." Proverbs 25:2

In reading To Dwell among Cedars by Connilyn Cossette, I felt like I was not only privy to the glory that had been searched out for this fascinating blend of fact and fiction but also felt like a king as I searched through the pages of this exemplary journey for myself! Truly wonderful! 

First, let's talk about the stunning setting in To Dwell among Cedars! Not only was it lush and descriptive with nods to earlier eras, the author opened up this particular era of the Bible in ways I had never experienced! I could see the conflict, doubts, factures within the nation of Israel. I could feel the religious, political, and spiritual struggles -- everything that had led the nation to this point. I felt like a scholar as I learned through this fictional tale. I was so deeply immersed!

However good the setting, the characters and their respective yet intermingling spiritual journeys are what shined the brightest in To Dwell among Cedars! Eliora and Ronen's struggles and triumphs are so deeply, heart-wrenchingly relatable that I felt personal freedom through their story. The adoptive covenant with God was so beautifully reflected that I felt renewed in my spirit as a cherished child of God. And their love story -- though rift with betrayal and pain -- was a testament to God's forgiveness, grace, and redemption! I don't have enough words to describe how amazing this was! 

Five Stars ~ To Dwell among Cedars by Connilyn Cossette is an exemplary story in the Biblical Fiction genre! To Dwell among Cedars is the first book of the Covenant House Series. I can't wait to read the next book of this duology, Between the Wild Branches!

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girl. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!

Review of The Right Kind of Fool by Sarah Loudin Thomas

 

About the Book ~

Thirteen-year-old Loyal Raines is supposed to stay close to home on a hot summer day in 1934. When he slips away for a quick swim in the river and finds a dead body, he wishes he'd obeyed his mother. Desperate for help, he runs to the mountain cabin of his mostly absentee father, frantically trying to communicate the news with his hands.

Driven away by fear and guilt over his son's deafness, Creed has played a distant part in Loyal's life and language. But when he's pulled into the murder investigation, he discovers that what sets his son apart isn't his inability to hear but rather his courage. As the impact of the murder ripples through their West Virginia town, both will learn what it took to kill a man and what it takes to become one.

For more information about Sarah Loudin Thomas and her books, check out her website here!

My Thoughts ~

The Right Kind of Fool by Sarah Loudin Thomas will startle readers with the quiet intensity of its profound message of hope!

The Right Kind of Fool is an adventure from start to finish! The story follows the three different members of the Raines family. What is possibly the most surprising and the most true to life quality of the story is that it contains a little of everything -- a coming-of-age story in Loyal, a second chance romance in Creed and Delphy's reconciliation, a murder mystery, a stirring historical setting, and an emotive, sensitive look at being deaf and learning ASL in the 1930s. While I can't say the conclusion to the mystery shocked me, I was satisfied with how it ended. Furthermore, I found the differences, similarities, and changes in the investigative process then versus now to be very interesting. However, I was particularly invested in Loyal's struggles and triumphs in addition to Creed and Delphy's reconciliation as these storylines abounded in quietly convicting truths that blossomed into profound messages of hope!

The title is an apt description of the personal journeys of growth on which the Raines family embarks. Loyal, Creed, and even Delphy discover that you can be a fool for a lot of bad reasons, but being a fool for the right reasons is an entirely different -- and altogether beautiful! -- thing! Very rewarding!

Four Stars ~ The Right Kind of Fool by Sarah Loudin Thomas possesses a quiet, simple beauty in a story overflowing with convicting lessons! The Right Kind of Fool is a standalone, but the author has other books in her backlist for readers to enjoy!

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girl. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!

Review of The Conqueror by Bryan Litfin

 

About the Book ~

AD 309. Rome teeters on the brink of war. 

Constantine's army is on the move. On the Rhine frontier, pagan Germanic barbarian Brandulf Rex joins the Roman army as a spy. Down in Rome, senator's daughter Junia Flavia finds herself embroiled in anti-Christian politics as she works on behalf of the church.

As armies converge and forces beyond their control threaten to destroy everything they have worked for, these two people from different worlds will have to fight together to bring down the evil Emperor Maxentius. But his villainous plans and devious henchmen are not easily overcome.

Will Rex and Flavia live to see the Empire bow the knee to Christ? Or will their part in the story of Constantine's rise meet an untimely and brutal end?

For more information about Bryan Litfin and his books, check out his website here!

My Thoughts ~

The Conqueror by Bryan Litfin takes history, war, and romance to bold, epic levels!

I appreciated how the author sought to accurately align with history in the portrayal of the early Christians who had recently come out of intense persecution, early church theology, the grim realities of war, and the debauchery of Roman culture. I'm always grateful for authors who are not afraid to tackle subjects like this. However, that brings me to my next thought...

TRIGGER WARNING! If you have had sexual abuse, trauma, and/or betrayal in your life, then please be aware that there is a lot of content that is VERY triggering!

While the pacing made it harder for me to be connected to the events of the story, the author has a strength for historical detail, particularly with political games and battle scenes! Though the characters weren't soulmate characters for me, I would be interested to know how their story progresses in the following books of the series. Hopefully with a happy ending after that cliffhanger! Ultimately, it is the characters' individual reconciliations with the costs and joys of following Christ that add a deep profoundness to their journey in The Conqueror!

Three Stars ~ The Conqueror by Bryan Litfin is an adventure in history! The Conqueror is the first book in the author's series, Constantine's Empire.

Disclaimer ~ In accordance with FTC regulations, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not compensated, nor was a positive review required. All opinions expressed are my own.

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and take flowery photos for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable little girl. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Any questions? Check out my Disclosures and Policies Page!