Fiction

Review of A Stillness of Chimes by Meg Moseley

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Genre: Contemporary Fiction

Laura Gantt returns to her Southern hometown to bury her mother and settle the household accounts only to be confronted with rumors that her father–long presumed dead–may actually be alive. As she begins to investigate the rumors for herself, a mystery into her parent’s relationship unfolds. Laura also reconnects with her childhood friends, including her former beau, Sean, who is still in love with her and wants to protect her from the physical and emotional chaos surrounding the recent events.

I have read a couple of Meg Moseley’s books, and really enjoy her writing. This is a character-based story with so much depth into each personality that it’s easy to relate and emphasize with each one. The narrative was intriguing and mysterious and quickly drew me in, even though the plot itself was pretty calm. There were a few times that I would be so caught up in the dialog that I would suddenly notice a scene shift too late and have to backtrack to find when the characters had entered the house, or gotten into the car, or whatnot. Often these scene changes were presumed instead of directly acknowledged, which made me take the occasional pause from the otherwise fluid prose.

I also felt that the end was a bit rushed. The mystery itself eventually came to light, but the depth of the characters and their internal struggles seemed to stop all at once, rather than come to a full emotional conclusion. I enjoyed the story so much only to feel incomplete with its finale. I also think much more could have been made of the spiritual element, which was introduced in the beginning, but not continued throughout. So, I am a bit torn on whether or not I would recommend this one; but I did like it overall.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah.

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Review of Esther Queen of Persia: A Courageous Woman for a Dangerous Time by Jim Baumgardner

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Genre: Historical Fiction

Recommended.

Finally, an Esther narrative that is intentionally true to the historical account! This book is well researched, and the biblical gaps are realistically portrayed to correspond with the foundation of Scripture.

It took me a couple chapters to fully engage with the characters, but then I was captivated. Esther is wonderfully presented as a humble and intelligent young woman in addition to her outward beauty. I wondered if a male author could adequately present the emotions behind her situation–being forced to throw away her dreams of a Jewish marriage to unite with a king who has so many other wives and concubines and who could have even rejected her after just one night of sexual intimacy. Baumgardner’s depth into Esther’s character, however, is right on the mark. It is a heart-wrenching story that delves far beneath the surface into the complex identity of Hadassah/Esther.

I will say, I don’t think the book’s cover fully expresses the depth of its content. The cover illustration of Esther is beautiful, but I think would be better presented over a full-sized scene of Shushan with Esther in the foreground–comparing her humility with the pagan extravagance of the Persian empire. The writing itself presents this context well. It is hard not to feel for Esther’s situation, and to marvel at her response in the midst of a difficult time.

I was also a little thrown off by an embellishment at the end with integrating the battle techniques of the Chinese. While this addition is historically possible, I thought it distracted from the fluidity of the story, and its focus on the faithful and dependable God of Israel.

Even so, this is the best fictional rendition of Esther I have read thus far. I really enjoyed the historical detail to the 5th century B.C. world, the well-developed characters, and the integration of the Scriptures–not just from the Book of Esther, but from many other books of the Tanakh (OT) that the characters would have been familiar with as an oral foundation for God.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, Jim Baumgardner, for the purpose of providing an honest review.

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Review of A Draw of Kings by Patrick W. Carr

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Genre: Fantasy/Adventure

Series: The Staff & The Sword, Book 3

Recommended.

The kingdom of Illustra is without a king and on the brink of a multi-front war. More, the religious leaders are confounded that Deas (God the Father) has not revealed the identity of their new king, who will save their nation. The draw is between two very different and equally likeable men: Errol and Liam. A prophecy given some time ago suggests that one of these men will save the nation by giving his life, while the other will live. Princess Adora is also a key character, and unashamedly in love with Errol, who reciprocates her feelings.

This is an epic adventure full of action, mystery, the exploration of other lands, strange monsters, and detailed battles, as well as having elements of romance and theological thought. Parts of the story reminded me a bit of The Odyssey, while it also has a medieval feeling, and surprising theological depth (especially considering ecclesiology and pnuematology).

The writing had some rougher moments, but overall was enjoyable. It plays out in “movie form”–moving quickly from scene to scene, sometimes at suspenseful moments, while also providing thorough detail to numerous characters at once. There is special emphasis on the action/battle scenes. I think the story would do well on “the big screen.”

I jumped into this third and final book of the series without having read the first two. While I was immediately pulled in to the intriguing story, I was also constantly aware of the missing back-story. There are several groups of characters to learn, and many references to relationships, memories, and events of the past. I enjoyed the book for itself, but also had moments were I was confused by the narrative. Therefore, I would absolutely recommend reading the trilogy in order if possible–I will probably go back to read the others as well!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House.

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Review of Princess Ever After by Rachel Hauck

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Genre: Romantic Fiction/Fairy Tale

Series: The Royal Wedding Series, Book 2

Recommended.

This is the classic story of a young woman discovering that she has royal blood and is the heir to the throne of a small, little known (fictitious) nation, and its only hope of survival. More than that, it has a strong spiritual foundation, and becomes a metaphor for identity and purpose within God’s Kingdom.

(Princess) Regina Beswick is a strong-willed Southern gal, who restores classic cars, and was finally feeling that she was “living the dream” when her life was interrupted with the news of her hidden identity. The theme of finding her identity, home, and purpose are almost stronger than the budding romance between her and her “prince”, which gives the story a bit more depth than the average romance.

There were moments that were a bit cheesy romantic, or maybe too idealistic; but isn’t this part of what makes a good fairy tale? Overall, it was a fun, light-hearted, read, but also had me thinking about identity and God’s love. I enjoyed it, and I think teen girls would love it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zondervan.

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Review of The Dancing Master by Julie Klassen

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Genre: Historical Romance

Recommended.

London dancing master Alec Valcourt is forced to relocate his family and business in the aftermath of a scandal. He moves his mother, sister, and himself into his uncle’s rural, small-town residence of Beaworthy, Devonshire, England. But he soon learns that dancing has been prohibited in the town, and that his appearance and occupation has stirred a deep-set wound. Mrs. Amelia Midwinter, the matriarch and local beneficiary responsible for the taboo on dancing, must deal with her personal wounds most of all–especially as her daughter, Miss Julia, and the new dancing master begin to develop a growing fondness toward each other.

The story is reminiscent of Footloose, yet set in the charming English historical landscape of the early 1800s. At times the drama is almost “soap-opera-ish” as the character’s deal with deep feelings amongst the uncovering of long-past scandals and deep secrets. But there is also a lightness to the writing as God’s grace and love become mending threads, bringing healing, reconciliation, and fresh identity in replace of the painful memories and present conflicts.

This is the first of Klassen’s novels that I have read, and I particularly like her writing, historical detail, and the depth of the characters’ emotions. However, I would have liked a bit more depth into the stories of some of the supplementing characters (a couple of whom I favored over the primary protagonists). Also, the pace of the narrative overall could have been a bit quicker/smoother. That said, I am nevertheless curious to read Klassen’s other historical novels, and found this to be an enjoyable and relaxing read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House.

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Review of The Governess of Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky

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Genre: Romantic Historical Fiction

Series: Book One of the Edwardian Brides Series

Recommended.

Julia Foster was a missionary in India until her father’s sickness brought the family home to England, requiring her to find work as a governess to financially support herself and her parents. At Highland Hall, Julia quickly becomes like part of the family, catching the eye of the estate’s master, Sir William Ramsey, as she attends to the children. Meanwhile, Ramsey struggles to save the estate from financial ruin.

The front-cover praise of best-selling author Julie Klassen compares this novel to Downton Abbey, and I fully agree with this assessment. I am not a super fan of Downton Abbey–I watched and enjoyed the first couple seasons, but have not recently been following the show. The Governess of Highland Hall is more engaging to me than Downton because the pace is a bit faster, and the characters are lovely. Turansky’s writing is vivid. The story is predictable, but so sweet and delightful that it is a joy to read. The Edwardian era is also captured particularly well.

Moreover, faith is (appropriately) a large part of this narrative, as is the tension between social classes. There are definite moral and religious themes presented throughout, and while they are direct, I liked how the story enveloped these seamlessly. Julia’s faith, especially, is a guiding element within her personality and decisions; it is the Christian faith in comparison to the materialism and class separation of the period that brings life to these characters.

I do think the ending could have been written a bit more powerfully. And, since this novel is complete within itself, I would have also enjoyed a clue to what the next in the series will offer. I am not left with any suspense toward the narratives to come, even though I thoroughly enjoyed the lightheartedness of this one.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah.

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Review of Dear Mr. Knightley by Katherine Reay

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Genre: Romantic Fiction/Coming-of-Age

Recommended.

Twenty-three year old orphan, Samantha (Sam) Moore, has always hidden behind her favorite books. Her childhood was difficult, so books (especially everything Jane Austen) became her escape, and eventually more of a reality than the present. As she struggles to relate to people, an interesting opportunity presents itself: an anonymous donor would like to pay for her to pursue a graduate degree in journalism–but it has to be journalism, and she must write frequent diary-like letters of her life and experience in exchange.

The novel is written almost entirely in letters, and Jane Austen, Edmond Dantes, Charlotte Bronte, and others are quoted frequently since Sam relates to classic fiction more so than to reality. I was not immediately engaged with the story, especially since I could not quickly recall each of the quoted moments within their literary context. However, with each new letter to the mysterious “Mr. Knightley,” Sam becomes more and more able to express herself. And as the character developed and matured, so did my interest and connection with the story.

I ended up really enjoying the writing, characters, and depth of the narrative. It is almost a coming-of-age piece in that Sam re-experiences her past through her letters, and discovers herself through her challenges. It is also a book about the writing process, which I especially appreciated. Sam’s writing grew as she found her voice within it, and her self expression and openness allowed her to find her voice in life as well. Best of all, it ends well (maybe a bit predictably–but sometimes this is good).

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson.

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Review of The Elegant Solution by Paul Robertson

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Genre: Historical Suspense

Recommended.

In 18th century Basel, Switzerland, the young Leonhard Euler (a true historical person and math prodigy) finds himself in the middle of a mysterious investigation. More importantly, however, he is forced to consider the big issues of life and death, cause and effect, and the invisible laws that hold everything together. The story is largely abstract, although many of the characters are real people. And the history (to my knowledge) appears accurate with the expected amount of added fantasy and creative compilation to aid in the storytelling.

Paul Robertson’s writing style is unique, and so it took me awhile to feel grounded in the story, and even longer to enjoy it. The writing is reflective of the principles of mathematics and physics that are the basis for the story. Thus, the narrative spirals in an interesting way, there is quite a bit of figurative language (some that I never quite did understand), and an underlying theme of complex, abstract thought regarding the patterns (mathematical and spiritual) of life.

While the book is marketed as “historical suspense,” this is not the sort of modern action suspense one might think, but rather more like a riddle that is progressively uncovered. By the half-way point I found myself really enjoying the story with all its oddity, mystery, metaphor, and nuance; and I continued to appreciate it more and more until the end. Robertson’s writing grew on me; I am glad I stuck with it! It is a novel full of intrigue, and history, and great for those who enjoy the intellectual world of theoretical/conceptual contemplation and introspection regarding the “invisible” principles that guide our world.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House.

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Review of Return to Me by Lynn Austin

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Genre: Historical/Biblical Fiction

Series: The Restoration Chronicles Book #1

Not Recommended.

Return to Me focuses on the return to Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile, and the rebuilding of the temple. It is at this time in Jewish history that the faith is restored, liturgy is developed, and a structure is put into place in order to help the people return spiritually to God just as they have spiritually. Austin’s story demonstrates this in part, but not with accurate supplementing detail.

For instance, she portrays the Men of the Great Assembly as a functioning entity prior to the return, and also mentions the building of a fence around the Torah, but both are not formed until after the return. Rather they are introduced during the rebuilding process as the Jewish people demonstrate the renewal/re-dedication of the covenant. While there was a faithful remnant during the exile, it is very unlikely that serious devotion to Torah was being practiced (and especially not in formal yeshivas). Austin also describes other aspects of Modern Judaism that also would have been out of place at this time (e.g. the practice of kindling the sabbath lights comes from the Middle Ages).

To an extent, it may be positive that the Judaism described reflects modern rather than ancient practices. It is beneficial for the church to recognize modern Jewish culture, and in a way, brings the modern reader into the story (which is thematically very relevant for today). However, I am pursuing an M.Div. in Messianic Judaism, and had just finished a course in the history and practice of Jewish liturgy when I began reading this book. Due to my growing knowledge of Jewish history and culture, I was so distracted by the lack of historical accuracy within Austin’s presentation of postexilic Judaism that I could not relax and enjoy the story. It is too bad, because I love this kind of historical/biblical fiction, and especially love the second temple period.

Readers who are looking to understand the broad strokes of biblical history, and are less concerned with accuracy in the details, will likely enjoy this book. The characters are well-developed, the story flows well, the writing style is enjoyable, and there are moments of (I believe) divinely inspired insight. I would read another book from Lynn Austin; but this one I just could not enjoy properly.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House.

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Review of Frame 232 by Wil Mara

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Genre: Suspense

Series: A Jason Hammond Novel: Book One

Recommended.

This is the first book in a series of suspenseful detective novels highlighting Jason Hammond, an independent billionaire sleuth with a propensity for justice. In this story Hammond is contacted by the daughter of the infamous Babushka Lady of the JFK assassination (Sheila Baker), who needs help after discovering her late mother’s secret, and a tape of the assassination portraying a second gunman. In Hollywood-worthy form Hammond and Sheila run from the bad-guys, while picking up clues to the truth behind the crime that must be made public.

This is a completely fictitious rendition of the events surrounding the JFK assassination, but very entertaining. Wil Mara actually did a good deal of research surrounding the conspiracy theories, but writes–not in accordance to his own views (he believes Oswald was the sole shooter)–but as he imagines would be most exciting for a narrative. The result is an absorbing novel with well-developed characters, electrifyingly cunning scenes of discovery and escape, and just enough real history within the setting to ground the account as a realistic illustration.

The second book of the series, The Nevada Testament (Summer 2014), will bring a completely different mystery from the same loveable detective. I appreciate series like this that draw from familiar characters while having a story all their own.

For more information on Frame 232 check out this Q & A with the author, and the official book trailer on YouTube.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through the Tyndale Blog Network.

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