Book Review: Treasured Grace

I am usually a fan of all things Tracie Peterson- love her style. Her story telling usually draws me in and I can't stop reading until I know every detail! Not so with this book, however. I am a fan of historical fiction, but there were several things about this book I did not like. The main character was an issue for me. Something about her grated on my nerves. The way she dealt with men was one reason. She was super defensive, and stubborn. Not that women have to be doormats, but she was challenging authority in a time when she had basically no rights- and it could have ended up very badly for her. I also was not interested in her attraction to Alex. He had his own issues, of course, and I just wasn't compelled to find out what/why.

I was hoping there would be more detail into the medicine part of Grace's "gift"- claiming she was trained as a healer. But it was herbs this, and tincture that, without any real information on how she put things together to treat illness. I find facts within historical fiction interesting, and there weren't many in this book.

I also felt the Native Americans were somewhat like wooden characters. There wasn't a Native American I felt really got to tell their story- not even Sam. The parts when Alex and Sam went to the Native American camp felt awkward to me. Like the author wasn't really comfortable writing about that culture, or didn't know enough about it to go into detail. The relation between the Native Americans and the people at the mission was a central part of the plot, (at least in the beginning) but I felt it was glossed over in the first half of the book. Nothing really developed, just threats of something looking.

I just could not get into the story, and sorry to say I didn't read all the way through. Maybe her next book will be a better fit for me.

Book Review: Murder is No Accident

Murder is No Accident is a book by A.H. Gabhart, set in the town of Hidden Springs. There are some quirky characters around, but no one too weird to turn you off reading or to annoy you.

I really liked this book! Murder in a small town is never easy to hide, but the author does a good job of keeping you guessing. I liked the main characters, and the way they interacted with each other. I had not read previous books in the series, so I was unfamiliar with the back story of Michael and his love interest, but it didn't detract from this book. Nothing was so in-depth between them that you couldn't read between the lines and see where they were at now. This can definitely stand on its own as a mystery novel.

I felt bad for Miss Fonda. When elderly people get Dementia or Alzheimer's, it is so hard for everyone, but most of all the person who is suffering from it. And there are always those who will try to take advantage. I thought it was sweet the way the people in town looked after her, and knew where to find her if she wasn't where she was supposed to be.

I also felt sorry for Maggie, but was happy to see she was a responsible young lady who was able to eventually share a secret when it became unsafe for those around her. Being the daughter of a person with any kind of substance abuse problem cannot be easy. The reality is, there are a lot of families like Maggie's out there. It's good to wrap our minds around their needs and how we might be able to step in and help.

I would definitely go back and read the previous books in the series, and will keep an eye out for future books from this author. Very enjoyable read!

Book Review: Shadow of the Storm

This was an excellent book! I am never sure with historical (especially Biblical) fiction, whether it will be accurately portrayed or not. I felt the tone of the story and historical pieces were really well done. The characters were believable and the story line compelling. I really enjoyed reading this!

I found the practice of midwifery very interesting, and loved how Shira found her calling by assisting in births: whether they be human or animal. It was great to see her stand up to her mother (in a strong but respectful way) and refuse to remain in a career that was clearly not where her skill set lay.

The character of Dvora was interesting but infuriating. I have known people like her, and it is ridiculous how long they get away with their wiles and deception. However, there always comes a time when they are called on the carpet for them. While it is satisfying to see them answer for their deeds, it is also disheartening, as you wish for redemption for them. Dvora is no exception to this. 

I will say there were a few places where Shira's self-blaming became monotonous, and where I was frustrated with how she limited herself, and couldn't seem to see past being a victim, but I was very pleased with how the book ended, and I would definitely read more from this author. 

I was provided a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.