Three book reviews!

Im up and cant sleep. the good thing is that little one is sleeping so I can get some of my paperwork done and checked off my list. I have three book reviews to write.

"Courting Miss Amsel" by Kim Vogel Sawyer was the last of the three books I read from Bethany house so I will start with that one.It was a sweet tale of a schoolmarm set in the 18oos in Nebraska. She was fresh out of school as the story takes you on a journey of new beginnings while running from her past. The story was filled with friends and family as well as pupils and the mindset of a farming community hesitant in accepting change and new ideas.I enjoyed the tale of a teacher doing things differently than what was expected and teaching the town new methods of discipline and learning. Being a home school family I appreciated many of the tricks she used with her pupils to promote a love of learning. I had to wonder if this could/would have happened that long ago? I typically think of "little House on the Prarie" type school settings. I enjoyed the relationships that were formed throughout the book. The characters were likable and there was enough detail for them to be realistic. I enjoyed the twists and turns that kept my interest. This was a well written book. I would recommend it for someone that enjoys a light read for a day at the beach or an outing if you enjoy a good historical novel. I gave this four out of five stars.


"Another Dawn" by Kathryn Cushman is the second book for me to write about.This was the first book Ive read by this author. I enjoyed her writing style so much. I read the description provided when choosing the books to review and was thrilled to find the book taking me on an unexpected adventure. This book was filled with many vivid characters and scenarios. Friends and relationships that had a past and depth that makes a story more interesting. I will tell you that the unexpected adventure is related to the topic of Autism and the possible links with vaccinations. To vaccinate vs not to vaccinate.(I hate to give it away since it took me by surprise. ) I enjoyed how the author dealt with a controversial topic and the depth of research, and heart she put into this story. I also enjoyed how she portrayed the reality of how our faith impacts our reality. Life happens. People makes decisions and we generally do not like the fact that decisions can have consequences.(good and bad) How are you going to act/react when faced with reality.If you want a gripping, cannot put it down until youve turned the last page type of novel this is a must read for you!I gave this book five out of five stars.



Now I Walk on Death Row: A Wall Street Finance Lawyer Stumbles into the Arms of A Loving God
by Dale S. Recinella
When I read the overview of this book I thought I might enjoy the topic.This book did not let me down. We too have ventured out into the unknown when we entered the international adoption adventure- Adoption of a child with known medical history. Something that some people shy away from. Even people of faith. But we have found that our faith only causes us to act on what we believe. To not only know the stories of the bible we learned as a child in our heads but allow what was taught to seep into our heart, the marrow of our bones. It changes you. I have found this same story resonating in the words of this book. A "one day I was living life. Living the American Dream. Then I realized something had to change" story. I appreciated the fine details yet not too much for a stay at home mother of four. The writer has a beautiful way with words and you may possibly find yourself asking questions of where your faith and real service intersect.I found I could not read the book as quickly as I would like because the story was so gripping and heart felt. I had to set it down to let it rest.But it has the quality of a book that I could easily read in one sitting! I have given it to my 17 year old son to read and would highly recommend this gripping true story.I gave this book five out of five stars.


I would like to thank Bethany house Publishers for the opportunity to read these book.I received a copy for review purposes which in no way influenced my reviews.
I hope if you have adventures for the summer these reviews might help you when you are off chosing a read for the road!