Title: Butterfly Palace
Author: Colleen Coble
Genre: Christian Historical Mystery
Plot: Lily Donaldson goes to Austin, Texas for a job as maid at the Marshalls home. Soon after Lily arrives she sees Andrew Hawkens, her former fiance , who abandoned Lily four years ago.
When Andrew tells Lily some dangerous secrets, she doesn't know is she believes him. Can Lily learn to trust again?
My thoughts:
I have read many of Colleen Coble's books and I have enjoyed most of them. This, however, isn't one them. I hate to write a negative review, especially when it's a Christian book, but I have to be honest.
I had two major problems with this book. The first being it was too violent, in my opinion. Several murders took place in this book and most of them where described too much for my tastes.
The killer was creepy and the way he murdered people was weird.
The second problem I had was inappropriate content.
Two unmarried characters had had an intimate relationship with each other in the past. They both repented of it and asked each other for forgiveness, but they still struggled with lustful thoughts throughout most of the book. That tended to make the book a bit suggestive at times.
I'm sad that this latest book by Colleen Coble wasn't great. I hope that her books in the future will be better.
My rating: 1.5
Title: The Dark Unwinding
Series: The Dark Unwinding
Number in Series: 1
Author: Sharon Cameron
Genre: Young Adult Historical Fiction
Plot: Katherine Tullman is sent to her Uncle George's estate to discover if he is truly insane and is squandering his fortune.
Katherine begins to unravel some of the mysterious surrounding her Uncle's estate, some of which hold life and death.
Can Katherine find the right solution that will help her uncle, his servants, and herself?
My thoughts:
I didn't know much about this book before reading and I'm glad I didn't. I suggest not reading an in-depth synopsis because it could give away things involved in the mystery.
This book is very different from other YA historical books I have read. It has a gothic, sci-fi feel to it, not unlike Doctor Who episodes set in the Victorian era. Yet, the story seemed plausible, if that makes sense.
At first I didn't really care much for the characters; they didn't seem anything special or unique. My opinion changed half-way through the book. Because the author did a good job of character development in the second half, I began reading it eagerly.
There is some content: God's name is used as a exclamation by certain characters. Alcohol and opium are mentioned often, but in a negative way.
My rating: 3.5
Title: Christmas at Harmony Hill: a shaker story
Author: Ann H. Gabhart
Genre: Historical Fiction
Plot: Heather Worth works as a washerwoman for her husband, Gideon's infantry during the civil war.
Heather is expecting her first child during the Christmas season, so she leaves the battlefield to stay with her Aunt Sophrena, who is a Shaker.
As Heather and Sophrena grow close they begin to learn about true faith, hope, and forgiveness.
My thoughts:
This is one of the best Christmas books I've read.
Although this story takes place during Christmas time, it focusses on the Civil War and The Shakers, which are interesting subjects to me. Because of that I think you could enjoy reading this book even when it's Christmas time.
My only critisim is that I wish this book had been a little bit longer ,so some events that took place in the past could be better explained.
My rating: 3
Title: Heart's safe passage
Series: The Midwives Series
Number in Series: 2
Author: Laurie Alice Eakes
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Plot:
Phoebe Lee, an apperintice midwife, is visiting her sister-in-law Belinda,whose husband has been made a prisoner of war.
Belinda has a plan to free her husband, but wants Phoebe to come along since she, Belinda, is pregnant.
Phoebe and Belinda become passengers aboard a privateer brig.
The Captain, Rafael Docherty, promises Belinda and Phoebe that they will find a way to save Belinda's husband.
When Phoebe learns that the Captain wants revenge for his family's deaths, Phoebe begins to lose trust in him.
My thoughts:
I enjoyed the first book in this series since it was fast paced and I liked the characters. Because of that I was looking forward to reading this sequel.
I was hoping that this book would be fast paced, interesting, and have good characters.Unfortunately this book didn't meet my expectations.
I had a really hard time with the characters. To be honest they frustrated me, a lot, at times. The relationship between Phoebe and most of the other characters were strained, and to be honest, a bit annoying.
It did have an interesting plot line that I would have enjoyed more if I had connected with the characters.
I really wanted to like this book, but I couldn't.
I'm not sure if I will finish this series. If you have read the last book in this series please let me know what you thought of it.
My rating: 2
Title: Lady in the Mist
Series: The Midwives series
Number in Series: 1
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Plot: Tabitha Eckles is an unmarried midwife, which makes her unusual in the early 1800s. Tabitha lives in a small town on the coast of Virginia where young men are being captured by The British and are being forced to serve in the British Navy.
Dominick Cherrett, an indentured servant, is British and has just moved into the area. People begin to wonder if Dominick has anything to do with the local men disappearing.
Can Tabitha trust him?
What I liked about this book:
This book is set in America in 1809.
Before reading this book I knew little about that time period in America. Because of that I thought this book was really interesting.
The storyline was fast paced, so it kept my attention the entire time
I was reading it.
What I didn't like about this book:
The characters were really great, but many of them had dealt with hardships that I had a hard time relating to.
There was more kissing in this book than I am used to in Christian fiction.
My rating: 3
Title: A Talent For Trouble
Series: Ladies of Distinction
Number in series: 3
Author: Jen Turano
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Plot:
Felicia Murdock , a caring, but mischievous young woman, believes God has called her to be the wife of a minister. The only problem is that the Minister Felicia thinks she is in love with marries someone else.
Felicia feels all alone and doesn't know what she wants out of life.
Grayson Sumner is thrown into Felicia's life despite of each other.
Can they make things work- even when danger tries to tear them apart?
What I liked about this book:
This is one of the most humorous books I have ever read!!!!
There are some extremely comical scenes that had me laughing out loud often.
I really enjoyed that some characters form previous books in this series played an important role in this book.
What I didn't like about this book:
The only thing I didn't like about this book is a cliche' I have noticed in a lot of Christian romances-
The main male character has given up on God because of his past, but he soon falls in love with a Godly woman who helps him realize his need for God's grace. The reason this bothers me is that I am convicted that a Christian should be in a relationship with another Christian. I am not trying to preach, just sharing what I feel is Biblical.
My rating: 3
Title: I Will Repay
Series: The Scarlet Pimpernel books
Number in series: 2
Author: Baroness Emmuska Orczy
Genre: Historical Fiction
Plot:
Juliette de Marny's brother is killed by Monsiuer Deroulde
in a duel of honor. Juliette's father is heartbroken and makes Juliette promise to avenge her brother's death.
Ten year later Juliette is rescued from an angry mob in Paris by Deroulde and moves in with Deroulde's mother and ward.
When a chance comes for Juliette to betray Deroulde, will she take it?
What I liked about this book:
Like the Scarlett Pimpernel this is an adventure book, so there is rarely a dull moment. It 's short, but very well written.
The characters seemed very real, so they soon became dear to me. The Scarlett Pimpernel, was defientily my favorite character. He was more cautious and serious in this book than the first book in this series, so it was interesting to see a different side of him.
What I didn't like about this book: Nothing
My rating: 3.5
Title: A Gentlemen of Her Dreams : a novella
Series: Ladies of Distinction Series
Number in series: 0 ( it's kind of a prequel to the first book in this series)
Genre: Christian Historical fiction
Plot: Charlotte Wilson is a headstrong young woman who tends to get in mischief often.
When Charlotte's childhood friend Henry St. James comes back home she enlists him in her latest scheme. Charlotte believes God is calling her to marry Hamilton Beckett, the most eligible bachelor in New York City. The only problem is that Charlotte has never formally meet Mr. Beckett, but believes that Henry will introduce her to Mr. Beckett.
Will Charlotte's plan work out the way she hopes?
What I liked about this book:
This book was extremely funny.
Charlotte's mischievousness gets her and Henry into many comical situations that had me laughing out loud often.
This book is also very sweet. The ending is cute and explained some of the events that happened in A Change of Fortune, the first book in the Ladies of Distinction series.
What I didn't like about this book: Nothing!
My rating : 4
NOTE: You can get this e- novella for free on Amazon.com
Title: The Baron's honorable Daughter
Author: Lynn Morris
Genre: Historical Christian Fiction
Plot: Valeria Segrave is the step-daughter of the Earl of Maledon.
When the Earl suddenly dies Valeria steps up to take care of her fragile mother and her six-year-old half brother, who is now the Earl of Maledon.
Valeria, who is vivacious and independent, experiences her first season in the fashionable part of London. Valeria is given lots of advice on how to act and who to associate with, but doesn't know whom to place her trust in.
What I liked about this book:
The author was fantastic at describing dresses, scenery, and characters. While the plot sounds cliche', Lynn Morris' writing made the stereotypes seem new and interesting.
The characters had depth and varying personalities that kept the plot moving.
What I didn't like about this book:
There were many references to prostitutes, immoral relationships, and like, but they were shown in a very negative light.
My rating: 3
![Springtime of the Spirit (Great War Series #3) | Maureen Lang [WWI, World War I, Germany]](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/blogger_img_proxy/AEn0k_sioRel8KkV067EgDmQMecIwpK1U3QhGD4I3FaBpGrPI4Aq_jag1FSR0ElAXArIUoMXLr5xP0hBHKdHmcVuSs3mvVxIK3XaTKGiw5Cqu6nnvEZ7LjAtR2ir3FZEyEMYhkCeBIFP-9vJkNLSW0L32uiRmyLG76CD=s0-d)
Title: Springtime of the Spirit
Series: The Great War series
Number in series: 3
Author: Maureen Lang
Genre: Historical Christian fiction
Plot: Christophe Brecht, who was a Major in the German army, returns to his village feeling defeated. Christophe's parents are both dead and his sister is living in America, leaving Christophe all alone.
When the parents of Annaliese Duray, young woman who has run a way from home, ask Christophe to find her, Christophe finally feels like he has a purpose again.
Christophe finds Annaliese in Munich, where she is speaking out for socialist reforms. Can Christophe convince Annaliese to come home?
What I liked about this book:
Unlike the other books in this series this book shows how the war affected those who were on Germany's side during World War I.
I learned a lot about the politics of Germany after World War I, which I hadn't really know much about before reading this book.
All of the characters in this book were varied and seemed real.
What I didn't like about this book:
One of the characters in this book is a womanizer and makes suggestive remarks every once in a while.
My rating: 3
![Whisper on the Wind (Great War Series #2) | Maureen Lang [WWI World War I Belgium Brussels]](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/blogger_img_proxy/AEn0k_vu1-iW0sLKvNsk7u3-0jMjuAqU3hEi1PDYKeHQlxTCqHAFD3TEuvu6_W8jvFsoYMqH4zBxFSqcl-n9pGUUMOl_C_RWPtudIAAiffpZ7_0VOClpDBMhBFSZk3P8MocxY2a7Se6dGP0sUz-6hweoMIoD6xt1wnaR=s0-d)
Title: Whispers on the Wind
Series: The Great War series
Number in series: 2
Author: Maureen Lang
Genre: Christian Historical fiction
Plot:
Isabella 'Isa' Lassone is an independent young woman whom is determined to return to occupied Belgium in order to save her closest friends. When Isa arrives in Belgium she soon meets Edward Kirkland, who she has loved since a child. Edward is angry that Isa has returned and wants Isa to leave as soon as possible.
Can Isa prove she is grown up enough to handle things in Brussels- not matter the cost?
What I liked about this book:
The story follows many of the characters mentioned in the Look to the East. It was neat to see what their lives were like and how they interacted with those of Charles and Julitte.
There were many heartfelt moments that really made me stop and think about how easy my life is compared to those who suffered during World War I.
What I didn't like about this book:
Edward was a bit to brooding and self absorbed to be a good hero for my tastes. He did start to grow on me as the book got further along, though.
My rating: 3
![Look to the East (Great War Series #1) | Maureen Lang [WWI World War I France]](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/blogger_img_proxy/AEn0k_upJ_fkflddyxbJKPFl64xNs2cSdsKmeyOjTLo6uuKkFdMp4od8XID8mQObj9Mpcu6ddWUgo5bGguYp7NIhbMM8N0qgRePY4UxM3jfNoHzcrRKhR0uBbt8vziz4ezBCLGlWEUYevbG9D45HuKRVd0XnwyaWi9j-SQ=s0-d)
Title: Look to the East
Series: The Great War series
Number in series: 1
Author: Maureen Lang
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Plot: Julitte Toussiant has lived a good life with her adopted family in the small village of Briecourt, France.
As World War I starts Julitte's life begins to change in a way she never expected. She meets Charles Lassone, a wealthy Belgian, who hides in Briecourt's small church so he won't be sent to a German work camp. As Julitte and Charles become closer their lives become endangered. Only by trusting in God will they both find a way to live in occupied France.
What I liked about this book:
I really like Maureen Lang's writing style and storyline.
The characters were well portrayed and interesting.
Julitte, was a strong heroine with lots of faith in God and genuine love for people.
Many of the things that happened in the plot seem like they could have happened during World War I.
What I didn't like about this book: There were a few spiritual elements in this book that I felt weren't ( in my opinion) Biblical.
My rating: 3.5
Title: The Bluebird and the Sparrow
Author: Janette Oke
Genre: Christian Historical fiction
Plot: Stern and serious Berta has always been envious of her pretty and likeable sister Glenna. Berta's bitterness has left her feeling unloved and without joy.
Years later the lives of Berta's sister and mother begin to change. Can Berta accept God's will or will she hold on to what she wants?
What I liked about this book:
It showed how allowing just a little bit of resentment to take over can affect your life- and those around you- forever.
Glenna and Berta were well thought out characters that made the story easy to relate to.
What I didn't like about this book:
It could be a little dry at times.
My rating : 2 . 5
Title: The Woman in White
Author: Wilkie Collins
Genre: Historical Mystery
Plot: When Walter Hartright is offered a job teaching art to two half-sisters at Limmeridge House he believes that his financial worries are over. Walter's students are the practical Marian Halcombe and the sensitive Laura Fairlie. Walter soon falls in love with Laura, but Laura is engaged to Sir Percival Glyde. Heartbroken Walter leaves Limmeridge house and returns to London.
It soon appears that Laura's marriage to Sir Percival is not what it seems. Can Walter and Marian help Laura before it's too late?
What I liked about this book: This was a very complex, well written, and thought provoking mystery.
There were many characters, all with different personalties, that you got to know in this story.
There were many plot twists that made it hard for you to figure out how things would turn out.
What I didn't like about this book: This is a very long book. If some parts had been left out this would have been a much faster read.
My rating: 3
Title: A Lady of Secret Devotion
Series: Ladies of Liberty Series
Number in series: 3
Author: Tracie Peterson
Genre: Christian Historical fiction
Plot: Cassie Stover and her family have been struggling to make a living every since Cassie's father passed away ten years ago.
When Cassie if offered a job as a companion to Mrs. Jameston,a Godly older lady, Cassie believes it is a God send.
Although Cassie enjoys her job, she doesn't not like her Mrs. Jameston's heartless son. Cassie feels that Mrs. Jameston's life is in danger. Can Cassie, along with Mark Langford, an insurance investigator, save Mrs. Jameston in time?
What I liked about this book: This was a easy and cute read.
I grew to really like some of the characters, especially Cassie, who I didn't like that much at the begininning.
What I didn't like about this book: Some of the things that happened were cliche' and a little over dramatic.
My rating: 2 .5
Title: Claudia, Wife of Pontius Pilate
Author: Diana Wallis Taylor
Genre: Historic Biblical fiction
Plot: Claudia spent her early years simply with her mother and Grandmother.
When Claudia is twelve she is ordered to live at the palace of Emperor Tiberius. Claudia hates Tiberius for treating her mother with disrespect, but Claudia soon learns to respect him.
Four years after moving to Tiberius' palace, Tiberius, and his wicked adviser, Sejanus, arrange a marriage for Claudia to Lucius Pontius Pilate. After years of loneliness Claudia finally feels loved by Lucius and grows to be a responsible housewife.
What I liked about this book: It showed what is was like for the Roman people during Jesus' time. I learned a lot about their customs, religions, and politics.
What I didn't like about this book: A lot of talk about intimacy in marriage, but nothing very descriptive. People wonder if certain characters are virgins or harlots.
My rating: 2
Title: Northanger Abbey
Author: Jane Austen
Genre: Historical fiction
Plot: Catherine Moorland has lived a simple life with her parents and siblings in Fullerton, England.
When Catherine is seventeen she is invited by the Allens' to join them in Bath. Once in bath Catherine discovers a world of dancing, fashion, and haughty people.
Catherine soon becomes friends with Isabella Thorpe and Eleanor Tilney- two very different people. Who is her true friend? The flirtatious Isabella or the quiet Eleanor?
What I liked about this book: This is by far the least serious of Jane Austen's books. There are some funny quotes and conversations throughout this book.
There are many different characters with different personalities.
I first thought that Catherine was a bit silly, but I soon found my self relating to her.
What I didn't like about this book: There are many references and conversations about very old books that I haven't read, which could be confusing at times. Thankfully the copy I read had footnotes that helped to explain those references.
My rating: 3
Title: The Fool's Girl
Author: Celia Rees
Genre: Teen Fiction
Plot: Violetta is the daughter of the former Duke of Illyaria, who has fled her homeland with her friend Feste, a court fool.
Violetta and Feste arrive in London where they met William Shakespeare. Violetta and Feste tell Shakespeare about there life, but Shakespeare isn't sure if he believes they tale.
When events happen that prove Violetta and Feste's story is true William Shakespeare must decide whether or not to help them.
What I liked about this book:
I learned a lot about William Shakespeare and his life as told through this story.
What I didn't like about this book:
This book is based on Shakespeare's The Twelfth Night, which I haven't read. Since I haven't read the play this book could be confusing, which made it hard for me to connect to the characters.
Witchcraft is a prominent theme in this book, so there were several scenes I skipped.
Crude language and inappropriate things were in nearly every chapter.
My rating: 1
Title: Glittering Promises
Series: The Grand Tour
Number in series: 3
Author: Lisa T. Bergren
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Plot: WARNING! CONTAINS SPOILERS!
Cora Diehl Kensington and William McCabe are now officially courting. The press wants to know all about it, but Cora doesn't know weither or not to share such personal information.
Cora must learn that her identity doesn't come from her family or Will, but from Cora's heavenly Father.
What I liked about this book:
This book was a good end to the Grand Tour Series.
The plot kept changing, so I wasn't sure how it was going to end.
The ending was great, much better than I thought it might be ( it even made me tear up).
What I didn't like about this book: Social drinking is mentioned often.
My rating: 3.5
Title: Grave Consequences
Series: The Grand Tour
Number in series: 2
Author: Lisa T. Bergren
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Plot: WARNING! CONTAINS SPOILERS!
Cora Diehl Kensington is finally growing close to her half-siblings and their friends, the Morgans. Cora is also beginning to enjoy The Grand Tour, all though she still misses her Mama and Papa.
When Cora and those on the tour are in danger Cora wonders what could be the cause.
Could the danger be closer to them then they first thought?
What I liked about this book: The plot in this book has many twists and turns, so I wasn't sure how it was going to end.
It was very suspenseful, but not too much were it got old.
What I didn't like about this book: It wasn't as well developed, in my opinion, as the first book in this series.
My rating: 3
