Teacher of Warsaw

Having read several previous books by Mario Escobar, I knew that his fictional accounts of historical events are exceptional. His book The Teacher of Warsaw is no exception!

The Teacher of Warsaw focuses on Janusz Korczak and the Jewish orphanage Dom Seriot he runs in Warsaw, Poland. At the time, Korczak was a well-known and well-respected doctor and teacher in Poland. Based upon his own writings, this book tells the story of his orphanage being moved into the Warsaw Ghetto during the Holocaust and his attempts to keep the children and teachers in his care safe. Although his position in Polish society could have provided opportunity to escape, Korczak chose to stay with the children in his orphanage until the very end when they were sent to Treblinka.

The Teacher of Warsaw was heartbreaking to read, not only because you know how it ends, but due to the well thought out reasons for Korczak's actions. Escobar does a masterful job of portraying the philosophical reasoning for the teacher's actions and how he taught and modeled life for the children in his care. This creates a story that requires the reader to think deeply about the issues raised that are still being wrestled with today. This book is a highly recommended addition to your Holocaust reading list.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complementary copy of this book from Thoma Nelson via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Mozart Code

The Mozart Code is set in post-World War II Vienna and Prague. While the war was over, these cities still experienced severe deprivation as their countries were being rebuilt and politicians decided what form of government they would have. This is the scenario Simon and Sophie find themselves. Both of these upper crust Brits, now serving as spies, are fleeing from their past and the expectations society and their parents placed upon them. Simon relies on chess and Sophie relies on her love of music--particularly Mozart. Given the secrecy of their work, they could only trust each other, but even then they were not able to be completely forthright. Author Rachel McMillan uses flashbacks to fill in information regarding the past of both characters which helps the reader to understand the choices they make. As the book unfolds, the reader learns more about Simon and Sophie and Simon learns important information about his own background that helps to tie the whole story together.

The Mozart Code contains plenty of political intrigue, a thrilling spy story, chess, music, and some romance thrown in for good measure. An enjoyable book about an aspect of history we often overlook.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received The Mozart Code from Thomas Nelson Press via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Letter from Briarton Park

The Letter from Briarton Park is the newest book by author Sarah E. Ladd. Having read and enjoyed previous books by this author and being intrigued by the description, I dug right into this volume. This book, set in Regency England, has a fairly typical plotline but has enough mystery to add in twists and turns that keep the story interesting. Several items set this book apart. To begin with, main character Cassandra Hale, although an orphan seeking information about her family and a governess, is a strong female protagonist. She has a firm sense of right and wrong and follows through with what she thinks is the right thing to do even when it isn't the socially proper thing to do. Several other characters prove to not have the same moral fortitude and provide some of the mystery elements. Hale also finds that individuals in her life have not always been honest with her and at times her life is in danger.

As indicated there are numerous twists and turns in The Letter from Briarton Park to keep the reader guessing. However, as a Regency romance, the end is fairly predictable. Ladd provides some excellent character development among both the main characters and several supporting figures as well. In addition, her descriptions draw the reader into the story. All in all, The Letter from Briarton Park is an enjoyable and entertaining book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received The Letter from Briarton Park from Thomas Nelson via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

The One You're With

I was unfamiliar with Lauren K. Denton, but the description of her newest book The One You're With caught my attention.

Childhood sweethearts have what appears to be a perfect life with well-established careers and two kids until a blast from their past rocks their world and threatens to end their marriage and perfect existence. Secrets emerge on both sides from the college summer they spent apart which cause them both to wonder if they made the right choice to marry each other. Alternating between the main characters and between the present and the past, The One You're With explores a variety of issues related to mid-life crises, friends, and marriage. An excellent heart-warming book!

I received a complementary copy from Thomas Nelson via NetGalley.

The Librarian of Saint-Malo

World War II--Check!

A librarian?--Check!

I was sold on The Librarian of Saint-Malo before I even opened the book as it combines one of my favorite time periods for historical fiction and it's about a librarian! Beyond those characteristics, it was written by Mario Escobar whose other books I have enjoyed. However, the story of Jocelyn Ferrec is unique among the glutted World War II genre. While involved to some extent in the French resistance movement and definitely doing her part against the Nazi invaders, Jocelyn's efforts focus on saving the literature and the history of the world through her town's library. We often forget the censorship that occurred during this time period and the numerous works that have been lost or were for a time period unavailable. Jocelyn's efforts to save the books causes her to interact with numerous individuals and those encounters may surprise you. In addition to a moving World War II novel, The Librarian of Saint-Malo reminds readers of the illnesses and other life difficulties that people of this time period faced. These issues are difficult by themselves, but when combined with an invading army and life being turned totally upside down become completely overwhelming. This book will cause you to wonder if you would have the strength and will to survive these trials.

I received a complementary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson via NetGalley. I was not required to provide a positive review.

The Girl in the Painting

Sometimes when you pick up a book the cover and the description bring to mind a particular vision of how you think the book will end. When I picked up The Girl in the Painting, I anticipated a particular ending but discovered the book wasn't at all what I expected--it was better!

Tea Cooper is a new to me Australian author who specializes in historical fiction and whose books are just now being released in the U.S.A. The Girl in the Painting shares the heartbreaking story of Irish immigrants who after making a new life in Australia use their good fortune to help orphans, like Jane, in their country. Using flashbacks, Cooper shares the story of when Michael and Elizabeth Quinn first came to Australia, their origins in Ireland, and how they became very successful, upstanding citizens. Cooper uses the flashbacks to provide gradually ever more detailed information regarding the Quinn family story. About half way through the book, new characters and a huge plot twist are introduced and that also injects a huge mystery into the book. Although numerous obstacles are thrown in their way, Jane and Elizabeth unravel the mystery. The reader will soon find that everything is not what you expected or even that the characters themselves believed to be true.

For non-Australians, Cooper provides an interesting look at the history and landscape of this beautiful continent. For all readers, Cooper raises some interesting ethical and moral questions to consider. Thoroughly enjoyable!

I received a complementary copy of The Girl in the Painting from Thomas Nelson via NetGalley. I am not required to provide a positive opinion.

Return to Cornwall

The Light at Wyndcliff by Sarah E. Ladd
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having previously read books by Sarah Ladd and specifically the previous books in her Cornwall novels series The Governess of Penwythe Hall and The Thief of Lanwyn Manor, I had some insight into what to expect in reading The Light at Wyndcliff and was not disappointed. Ladd continues to create strong female characters who defy both the social conventions of their day and their positions to do the right thing even when it means going against their family. In The Light at Wyndcliff, Ladd gives more attention to the male character who also is willing to do the right thing even when it is not what his expected of his position and status. Individuals who have read the previous novels will recognize family names that are continued. While having read the previous books is useful, this novel stands on its own as well. All in all an enjoyable story for a light relaxing read.

I recieved a complementary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson via NetGalley.

Peasant's Dream

Take one well-known fairy tale, reverse the gender roles, add a sprinkling of Bible stories, and the writing ability of the ever-so-talented Melanie Dickerson to create The Peasant's Dream which is book 11 in the Hagenheim series.

The book summary for this new release indicates it is "a reverse Cinderella" story. While reading the story, I did not recall this bit of information and did find myself wondering "Which fairy tale is this?" In fact, I found the Bible parallel more apparent until near the end of the story when the fairy tale aspect became unmistakable. Dickerson's books, as they are published by HarperCollins Thomas Nelson Publishing, always have some Christian themes. Most often this includes the characters praying, receiving advise from their priest, and in a general a "clean," unobjectionable book. However, Bible stories are mentioned more frequently in The Peasant's Dream due to the main characters job. The mentions are appropriate due to the medieval setting of the books and not heavy-handed. Previous familiarity with the Bible stories or characters mentioned is helpful in understanding the story but readers who are not familiar with them will be able to follow the plot.

One of the things I enjoy about Dickerson's books is that while they are written for YA readers and are completely clean and appropriate for even early teens, they are written in a manner that holds the interest of even adult readers and she includes just enough sexual tension between the couple. The Peasant's Dream does not disappoint in that regard. A slight change is the non-descriptive reference to the main character's parentage and the emphasis that a person's character and future is not dependent on the circumstances of their birth.

Overall, I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys YA books. If you have been following the Hagenheim story, you will definitely want to read The Peasant's Dream. If you have not yet read any of the previous books, you can definitely start with The Peasant's Dream but will want to go back and read the previous books.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received The Peasant's Dream from HarperCollins Thomas Nelson via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Of Literature and Lattes

The title of Katherine Reay's newest book screamed "Read me!" since a good chunk of my life is comprised Of Literature and Lattes. After reading the description and noting that the book was also set in Illinois where I live, I was sold.

Of Literature and Lattes is a light and enjoyable read. One of the interesting aspects of the book it that there are three main story lines that occur simultaneously. You have the new coffee shop owner and his relationship with his ex-wife and the bankrupt adult woman who moves back to her childhood home, but is dealing with the fairly recent divorce of her parents and a rocky relationship with her mom. And of course,the story line between coffee shop owner and the adult woman. While it does have a happy ending and all three story lines are resolved by the end as well as several minor stories as well, the characters are flawed and real which adds to the books enjoyment factor. These characters are not perfect but are trying to do better.

Since the book was published by Thomas Nelson there are some Christian references. For example, some of the characters attend a men's accountability group that involves the ministers and men of different churches meeting together. There are also some veiled references to prayer, but the book isn't preachy. It's more along the lines of small town America where going to church is embedded into the community structure. Overall, Of Literature and Lattes was just the fun, lighthearted read needed for an enjoyable evening.

I received a complementary copy from Thomas Nelson via Netgalley. All opinions are my own and I was not required to give a positive review.

Uncommon Ground

Uncommon Ground: Living Faithfully in a World of Difference is a recently released book of essays edited by Timothy Keller and John Inazu. The individuals who contributed essays to this work represent a wide variety of perspectives and careers from ministers, lawyers, authors, songwriters, and more. Some of the individuals will be very well-known such as rapper Lecrae while others may not be as familiar.

Uncommon Ground is organized into three sections Framing Our Engagement, Communicating Our Engagement, and Embodying Our Engagement. The emphasis truly is on how to engage others by finding a common ground with others who do not necessarily share beliefs. Each section has four essays that relate to the overarching topic. Each essay stands alone although the authors demonstrate that they have engaged with each other regarding the essays. I found each essay to be thought-provoking and delightful as the authors truly shared from the heart about their own experiences. However, each essay must be savored. This book is not one to be read quickly but needs to be mulled over. Uncommon Ground would be a wonderful selection for a discussion group. It also has potential as textbook for a class on how to engage culture.

I received a complementary copy from Thomson Nelson via NetGalley. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive opinion.

The Socialite

I had recently read several books by J'nell Ciesielski and found them enjoyable so when I had the opportunity to read her newest book The Socialite I jumped on the opportunity. Ciesielski's prior books were set during World War I and World War II. Her newest follows suit and is set during World War II in Paris. In a nutshell, you have two aristocratic sisters from Britain, a German officer, and a barkeeper who is involved in the resistance and tasked with making sure the sisters get home safely. Lots of tension exists between the sisters, between the two gentleman, and one sister and the barkeeper who try to deny their growing attraction.

All in all, I found The Socialite an enjoyable book that kept me engaged until the very end. However, in some ways it was a bit predictable--partially because I had read Ciesielski's other books and partially because you know how these books are going to turn out. But, there are some surprises that do keep you on your toes and surprise you until the very last page. I did notice that although published by Thomas Nelson, a Christian publishing house, there was no mention of God, church, or anything remotely religious or Christian about the book which is not typical of the Christian fiction genre. I did find that the book was very "clean" without any language or blatant sex. However, Ciesielski definitely indicates physical attraction between two main characters and one sister is definitely the mistress of the German officer. Being set in a war, some violence is present but not overly descriptive. The Socialite is a put your feet up, enjoyable, get lost in a good book story.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received The Socialite from Thomas Nelson Publishing via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Becoming Mrs. Lewis

Becoming Mrs. Lewis by Patti Callahan has just been released in an expanded edition which includes discussion questions, a timeline, and several other "extras." Originally published in 2018, Becoming Mrs. Lewis was awarded the 2019 Christy Award. Knowing this, when the opportunity came about to read this book, I grabbed it because it's C.S. Lewis and Joy Davidman.

A large part of this books consists of letters written back and forth between Lewis and Davidman while she was still married to her first husband. As Davidman had recently become a believer and was introduced to C.S. Lewis' non-fiction works, it was natural for her write as she was a published author herself. As their friendship grew, life circumstances took her to England where she met Lewis in person. Later returning to England with her two young sons, she continued her friendship with Lewis who also helped her to find a school for her sons and introduced her to others. During this time frame their relationship was very platonic but Callahan's version of the story definitely shows how Joy was finding herself falling for him.

One of the first things to remember when reading this book is that while based on the true story of Lewis and Davidman's exchange of letters and then marriage,it is fiction and Callahan emphasizes that she imagined the letters based on the research she did. I did find reading these imagined letters and the story which is written from Joy Davidman's point of view a bit uncomfortable as it definitely plays up a physical attraction that Joy felt for Lewis. However, it also demonstrates the humanity of someone whom we are prone to put on a pedestal. After reading Becoming Mrs. Lewis, I want to go back and re-read Lewis's work and in some cases read for the first time. I also want to reacquaint myself with Davidman's work which I had previously studied as an English major.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received Becoming Mrs. Lewis from Thomas Nelson Publishing via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Where Goodness Still Grows

If you grew up in the evangelical subculture during the 1990s or even the 2000s like author Amy Peterson did or if you worked with youth during this time period like I did, there are certain virtues and values that were an important part of life. This was the era of purity culture where modesty and good character was emphasized, learning to logically defend your faith was encouraged, and The Book of Virtues was bedtime reading. As this generation is in the midst of parenting their own children and fully embracing adulthood, contemporary culture is causing many to question these virtues and values particularly at a time when some church leaders seem to have done an about face in regard to these same values particularly in the political sphere. In Where Goodness Still Grows: Reclaiming Virtue in an Age of Hypocrisy, Amy Peterson shares personally regarding her own journey and experiences and digs into research regarding each virtue being examined through nine thought provoking chapters.

Beyond the engaging exploration of her own faith journey and experiences, Peterson does a marvelous job of digging into each of the virtues presented and what they mean. She explores the history and meaning of different words, pulls in biblical research for the basis of each virtue, and shows how the meaning or practice of a particular virtue has changed over time. For example, her exploration of the meaning of the word "kind" which we often throw way as a generic "nice person" showed the root of the word and turns your understanding around. For other terms, Peterson demonstrates that the version of "purity" or "modesty" frequently taught in evangelical sub-culture is a subverted view of the true biblical meaning. Some readers will be surprised when seeing "lament" as the first chapter as it is not a virtue frequently discussed. However, Peterson uses this chapter to set the stage for why she wrote this book and encourages us that lament needs to be a virtue we embrace more fully.

Where Goodness Still Grows is a book that demands a slow, thoughtful reading. It is not a book to sit down and read quickly but should be savored and discussed with others. In fact my only suggestion for improving this book would be the addition of questions to facilitate discussion in a book group setting. A discussion guide is available at https://www.amypeterson.net which will be a wonderful resource for a book discussion group. If you feel a disconnect between the virtues and values you were taught while growing up, particularly if you grew up or worked with youth in the 1990s, and the current seeming disdain for those same virtues, you need to read this book. If you don't feel there is a disconnect but wonder why people feel that way, read this book with an open heart and mind.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received Where Goodness Grows from Thomas Nelson via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

The Promised Land

Recently I finished reading Robert Whitlow's book The Promised Land. This was most exciting as I finished the book just prior to visiting Israel myself. Before reading this book, I read The Chosen People which is the first book in the series. Reading it first is really important to understanding The Promised Land as it introduces Hana and Daud and many of the other characters. The Promised Land also picks up where the first book left off as any good sequel should do.

As a legal thriller, The Promised Land jumps right in with Daud, an Arab Christian who works in security and intelligence, on-site in Israel working on a project involving Middle Eastern espionage. The conclusion of this project puts him right in the cross-hairs a nefarious business man. Hana, a lawyer of Arab Christian descent working in America, is called to consult on a case involving a recently found archaeological artifact. In the story, the artifact is a fictional queen's head companion to the actual sculpted king's head which is on display at the Israel Museum.(It was quite exciting to actually see this real-life artifact in person.) While Hana works on this project and other legal items, Daud is back in the States building his new personal business. Given their unique background and experiences, Hana is asked to participate in a panel discussion about Israel and Palestine and Daud is asked to provide security for this event. In addition, as fairly recently married individuals the predictable "baby makes three" comes into play as well. In addition, a family who played a major role in the first book continues to be a part of their lives. These storylines continue throughout the book and require both Hana and Daud to travel to Israel several times before the story concludes.

While I really enjoyed this book as well as the first in the series, I was disturbed by the view that all Muslims are bad that comes across in the book. The "Muslim terrorist businessman" is an important part of the story, but I would have liked to have seen additional Muslim characters as well to even out the story a bit. This book would be enjoyed by those who enjoy legal thrillers and with strong male and female characters can be read by both. I am hopeful that more books will be written in this series as I want to learn more about Hana, Daud, and their new little one. With numerous loose ends left untied, I am fairly confident more is in store for this couple.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received The Promised Land from Thomas Nelson via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Not Your Typical Governess

The Governess of Penwythe Hall by Sarah E. Ladd
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Governess of Penwythe Hall caught my eye as I had read several other books by author Sarah Ladd which I had enjoyed greatly. I was also seeking something a little more light-hearted and fun to read. This book fit both categories.

The Governess of Penwythe Hall is your basic Christian Regency romance. This book stands out because the governess is not your typically naive, innocent young lady who is trying to earn a living. Instead, the governess is widowed and fleeing a secret from her past. This secret provides a slight mystery element to the book. Ladd does a nice job of providing some clues but yet not giving away the secret until near the end. There are several twists and turns that keep the reader guessing. Beyond the suspenseful, mystery aspect, The Governess of Penwythe Hall follows the basic plot readers of this genre will recognize. As this book does feature a governess, I enjoyed that the characters of the children in the book were somewhat developed and played a role in the story instead of being invisible. I look forward to additional volumes in this series.

I received a complementary copy of this book via NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review.

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Blackbird Mountain

Sons of Blackbird Mountain by Joanne Bischof
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! In Sons of Blackbird Mountain, Joanne Bischof does a marvelous job of demonstrating both the bonds of brotherhood and the horrible travesties of alcohol. Bischof also shows the impact of a deep-seated hatred. The book is well-written and engaging. As soon as you finish, you will want to pick up the sequel.

Daughters of Northern Shores by Joanne Bischof
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Daughters of Northern Shores, the second book in Joanne Bischof's Blackbird Mountain series, focuses more fully, but not exclusively, on younger brother Haakon. Reading the first book, Sons of Blackbird Mountain, is imperative to understanding much of what happens in this book. During the course of the book, the hate which previously played a prominent role continues to drive the story as the Norgaard family with the nearby Sorrell family. Love and the bonds of family and friends are tested through sickness and in health and with the return of the black sheep of the family who becomes the Prodigal Son.

Daughters of Northern Shores is a much darker story than the first in the series yet the story cannot be fully told without that aspect. As such, it is not cheerful pioneer romance. That said, it does end on a happy note and leaves the reader eager to read the hopefully forthcoming third volume in the series.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the book Daughters of Northern Shores from Thomas Nelson via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.