turquoiseavenue's reviews
532 reviews

After reading Liz Tolsma's Daisies are Forever, I had very high expectations for this book. The author really isn't afraid to delve into the horrors of war and the devastation it brings. I was excited to read what life was like in the Philippines at the time after having read so many WWII novels set in the European theater.

In regards to this story, I had a hard time connecting with the characters. At first I thought Irene was brave for bringing Rand the censored part of his message in order to save his life as a fellow internee, but as the story moved on, I felt some of her actions came across as immature, including her gullibility, lack of compassion for Mercedes and stubbornness regarding Rand's commitment to her at the end. Rand's character undergoes a huge transformation and it was a good one at that. He was perhaps my favorite character. I didn't care for the blackmailing that came from Mr. Covey, at times it didn't seem believable that a wealthy, independent man like Rand would allow himself to be backed into a corner time and time again. Nor why Irene would allow the man to blackmail her either. My last disconnection was how long Rand and Irene would go without seeing other, knowing full well in a gated community only so big, that they had plenty of opportunity to see each other or connect. I finished the book feeling just a little let down. I'm not saying this story wasn't good in it's own right, it was, but I just felt it could have been better.

Overall, depictions of life in the camp were real and believable, and harsh. My heart broke for those who truly went through those years in Santo Tomas. I found myself Googling photos of the camp and the internees who lived there. Throughout, there's enough change to keep pulling you into the story and wanting to see how it turns out. Overall, I give the story three stars and recommend it for historical purposes and education, if nothing else.

As someone who's very familiar with Cades Cove and the history there, I was excited to read this book. The story was tender, touching and heartwarming, but also very predictable and had many comparisons to Catherine Marshall's Christy. From the first few chapters, I already knew how the story would end. There were no surprises in my opinion and no true struggle, for the struggles that were mentioned seemed to be resolved within a chapter...The main character, Anna, had moments where I felt she was a little on the immature side, but since her age isn't mentioned in the book, I'm assuming she was still in her teens. About 1/3 of the way through, I started losing interest but kept on reading in hopes the story would become deeper. Unfortunately it didn't and it looks me weeks to finish the book. The only reason I did was because I don't like to leave things unfinished.

On the up side, I believe the author portrayed life in the mountains at that time very well, especially if you don't mind reading Appalachian dialect (I struggled a bit with that personally however). If you're looking for a feel-good story, this is one for you!

* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts below are my own.

This tender story is sure to melt your heart! As this story begins, you'll learn about the two main characters, Katherine and Jean-Michel - two people who loved each other but were torn apart. As their lives moved on without each other, their hearts are scarred by battles they each endured separately as the result of the paths their lives take. When Katherine's grandmother becomes involved, the two former lovers are given the opportunity to reconnect and reunite their love from years ago.

I enjoyed the story line and felt both Jean-Michel and Katherine were genuine, endearing characters. They were easy to relate to and their separate journeys in understanding themselves, finding their faith and rekindling a long lost love was so touching.

While Out of the Ashes is clearly the second book in the Heart of Alaska series, I didn't feel like I'd lost anything by not having read book one, In the Shadow of Denali, first or even at all. Out of the Ashes works well as a stand alone novel.

The book opens with all the interesting details readers need to know about the main characters' backgrounds and lays the groundwork for the story. Roughly halfway through, readers might find themselves anxious to skip ahead as there's a bit of a lull in the drama. But keep reading because 3/4 of the way through the story, just as Katherine and Jean-Michel reconnect on a deeper level, an influenza epidemic becomes a very serious concern for the little town. Then, as you would expect, this novel will wrap up quickly and neatly, with the warm-gooey ending you anticipated in the beginning.

I gave this book three stars because I enjoyed the history that I learned in the book and the journey of personal faith for Katherine and Jean-Michel. The two things that kept me from giving Out of the Ashes a higher review was that, for me, the novel had too many perspectives on the story. While I enjoyed learning about the other characters that made up the Curry Hotel staff, I found myself feeling like the novel jumped between different characters' points of view too often and left me wanting more from one character's point of view. As a result of that rapid shift in perspective, I felt that things moved too quickly and that I missed out on the details and depth the story could have held. I believe, however, that the reason for multiple perspectives is because this book IS a part of a series and the authors wish the readers to be able to connect with all the lovely staff of the Curry Hotel in order to enjoy the series as a whole. I am certain that we will find in the book to follow that the lives of these dear characters continue. Secondly, the novel uses the influenza epidemic as a crisis point in the story, but then downplays the reality of it later, with all the characters miraculously getting well but not attending the six funerals of those who passed. I found that hard to fathom in such a close knit little community. Also, little is mentioned of the outcome for the four people who contracted the disease while camped outside of town during the quarantine. At that point in the story, things start to move quickly and wrap up with a predictable ending. Overall, though, this book is truly heartwarming if readers focus on the journey that Katherine and Jean-Michel embark on. By the end of the story, readers have fallen in love with these characters, the Curry Hotel staff and will find themselves wanting to pick up other books in this series.

CAPTIVATING & SUSPENSEFUL... A DETAILED LOOK AT FRENCH ÉMIGRÉ LIFE IN AMERICA AFTER THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR. This beautiful story weaves the lives of strong, engaging characters in an exciting series of events while offering a storyline rich in historic details that is sure to delight any historical fiction enthusiast.

War, suspense, mystery, determination, faith and romance... From the gorgeous cover to the heartwarming ending, this story is sure to win the hearts of its readers. Early on in this captivating novel, the author, Jocelyn Green, introduces readers to French émigré, Vivienne Rivard, who must flee her beloved home in France to save her own life. Vivienne faces the heartbreaking loss of her dear aunt and learns the details of her estranged mother's questionable past, while living life in a country ravaged by the horrors of the French Revolution. We follow her journey overseas to America, where readers meet Liam Delaney, a former militiaman in the American Revolution just years prior. Throughout the early storyline, additional characters enter and lay the foundation for exciting plot twists which add a sense of mystery to the novel.

I enjoyed the pace of this book as well as the suspense that builds from the events taking place. The author depicts an accurate peek into the gut-wrenching perils of the French Revolution, portrays early American life beautifully and details major historical events such as the Whiskey Rebellion while bringing historical figures like Alexander Hamilton and Monsieur Omer Talon to life. In addition, the author sets forth the story in intricate details which delights reader's imaginations and brings vivid color to the sights and smells of the era.

When Vivienne finds herself as a sudden guardian of a young boy, mystery surrounds the lad who could possibly be Louis-Charles, the heir to the French throne. Readers will get a glimpse into this boy's life and his story as he and Vivienne must once again flee their home to protect their very lives. Finding refuge in a place called French Azilum, a historically accurate place in Pennsylvania, they find their lives even more intertwined with Liam Delaney and other characters.

Vivienne, who never knew the love of her own mother, finds herself shepherding this young boy through life, providing for him, caring for him and nurturing him as she struggles to make her own way in life. She discovers the value of family and opens her heart to forgiveness along the way. It is her admirable determination and grit that I loved most about her. Liam, who's noble character has readers falling in love with him from the start, makes his way through the story fighting moral battles and upholding what he believes to be right. As he quickly falls for the beautiful Vivienne, readers find a hint of romance that later becomes a beautiful love between two strong and independent people.

The end of the story wraps up with an exciting, climactic turn of events and a heartwarming ending. I don't want to give too much away in the details but suffice it to say, the ending will not disappoint. I truly believe historical fiction readers will love this book as much as I did. It is indeed a five star book, in my opinion.

* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts above are my own.

An excellent read you just can't put down! Thoroughly enjoyed the well rounded characters and fast moving plot... The exciting story line kept me engrossed all the way through!

* I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review. The late 1800's were an exciting time for our world with new innovations and breakout ideology. Perhaps, more important though was the movement that was underway for women and their rights to pursue equality in a predominantly man's world. This likable romance weaves the lives of Julia Bernay, a young nurse who intends on becoming a missionary doctor and Michael Stephenson, an established barrister in ways they never imagined.

The Heart's Appeal is a moderate read with well researched medical and law terms that are easy to understand. Readers will feel themselves step into Victorian England and get caught up with these two young people as they embark on a journey of love. Readers will also enjoy learning bits and pieces about George Muller and Dr. Elizabeth Garrett Anderson, two real people who made a significant impact on society in their time.

I loved Julia's tenacity and determination. Her faith was beautiful and was what made me, as a reader, feel an instant connection with her as a character. She has a beautiful conviction to make a difference in the world while making her own way, with God's help, of course. I also enjoyed Edith Morton, who among others in the story, helps stand up for women's rights and strives for the equality of her profession among men. If it wasn't for celebrated women like these, our society wouldn't be as advanced as it is today when it comes to women's right and a right to choose and excel in their own profession.

Michael Stephenson is a charming character who at first, I believe, wasn't sure of his own convictions in life. As the book moves along though, readers experience the softening of his heart and his desire to make a difference in the world as well, which is a direct result of his budding love for this beautiful young woman. Their romance, as it grows, is touching and quite tender.

While this book is clearly a part of a series, it read well as a standalone.

In my opinion, this appealing book is a solid three stars and I believe that other historic fiction readers will like it as well. My fondness for the story is because of it's historical aspect and the significance of the women's movement. The story flowed well, held my interest and had points of intrigue and excitement. In my opinion, I would have loved it more if the author had dealt less with the libel case and more with the struggles women faced entering the medical field. I would also have loved if Julia had been more actively involved in ministering right there in London, while I enjoyed the bit that she did. However, this was the first book I've read by Jennifer Delamere and so, I am looking forward to seeing what else she has to offer, especially in this series.

*I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from Revell at Baker Publishing Group via NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts below are my own.

A Borrowed Dream, book two in the Cimarron Creek Trilogy is a book that rather surprised me. It is the first book I've read by author, Amanda Cabot. The story begins when Austin Goddard and his young daughter move to Cimarron Creek, harboring secrets that mean life or death. As Austin ushers his young daughter to school, he meets the young and beautiful school teacher, Catherine, who he quickly begins falling for while he battles his need to keep his true identity secret and keep his daughter safe. Catherine finds herself wrapped up in her own secrets and trials as she walks through life with a mistrust for the town's current doctor, meets and takes in a stranger, and cares for her schoolchildren. The story is one of new love, secrets, forgiveness, tragedy and even mild suspense.

In beginning this book, I immediately saw the connection to the first book in the series, which I have not yet read. At times, I did feel like I had missed something, especially when it came to understanding some of the characters and their history, but this book does focus on a story that is completely separate from book one. Without giving too much away, the love story is sweet as we see a relationship form out of friendship and respect. There are fairly exciting twists and turns that keep readers interested and turning the pages to find out what happens next. There's even an evil villain... The story moves quickly, is sweet, touching, predictable, clean and has the perfect happy ending, just as you'd expect.

A Borrowed Dream has similarities to Janette Oke's "Love Comes" series so if you're a fan of hers, you will really enjoy Amanda Cabot as well. Because the story does touch on subjects like murder and rape, I would ask parents of young adult readers (ages 11-13) to consider the reader's maturity level but I do feel the book was well suited for teenage girls 14+. My reason for this rating is simply a matter of personal opinion. The book was good and I liked it. You may like it much more than I did. I desired a deeper storyline, while this one merely skimmed the surface. Several tragedies happen and I felt the author only lightly touched on what would have been a deep impact for such a small, close knit community. The predictability was another factor that I wrestled with, unfortunately knowing exactly how the book would end. The outcome of too many events felt so convenient and obvious for the storyline. However, amidst my desires for something deeper, I still found myself turning the pages as the story moved along, held my interest and had various climactic elements. When all was said and done, I found myself wanting to read more by this author in this series and I think you will too! Again, if you're looking for a cozy, historical fiction read with engaging elements, this is the book for you!