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Powell's Staff:
Five Book Friday: In Memoriam
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Every year, the booksellers at Powell’s submit their Top Fives: their five favorite books that were released in 2023. It’s a list that, when put together, shows just how varied and interesting the book tastes of Powell’s booksellers are. I highly recommend digging into the recommendations — we would never lead you astray — but today...
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Brontez Purnell:
Powell’s Q&A: Brontez Purnell, author of ‘Ten Bridges I’ve Burnt’
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Rachael P.:
Starter Pack: Where to Begin with Ursula K. Le Guin
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Customer Comments
grnmnml8y has commented on (12) products
At Loves Command
by
Karen Witemeyer
grnmnml8y
, June 23, 2020
Karen creates a fun brotherhood between Matthew, Mark, Luke (“Preach”), and Jonah. Watching them interact on the page brought back fun memories of watching "compadre" westerns like The Sons of Katie Elder, High Chaparral, Open Range, and El Dorado. With Matthew’s tough background, he’s reluctant to allow anyone close but his “brothers,” who survived battle alongside him. When he finally admits he’s not getting Josephine off his mind anytime soon, he woos her with a gentle, honest pursuit. But their relationship isn’t without struggle. Josephine has reservations about involving herself with a man who makes his living with his guns. She’s dedicated her life to making the sick and injured well. There’s also the matter of her brother, whose being kidnapped by outlaws endanger Josephine and Matthew and everyone they love. In the beginning, we’re concerned about Matthew’s gunshot friend, then the romance develops quickly between Josephine and Matthew. They are both past normal marrying age, and with Matthew being in a line of work where time isn’t guaranteed, once he opens up to the idea of a woman in his life, he wastes no time making his interest known. Emotional and romantic development make up the second quarter of the book, but the pages still turn fast all the way through until the ending. Action-wise, the story starts off with a bang, then really picks up again around the midpoint. *I received this book from the publisher. I have stated my honest opinion.
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Pretending to Wed
by
Melissa Jagears
grnmnml8y
, May 29, 2020
This is a fun, quirky marriage of convenience story that looks at its own trope with a bit of a smirk, hence the first lines: “This couldn’t be happening. Not unless he’d stumbled into one of those silly romance novels his aunt used to read.” I enjoyed getting to know Nolan, the amputee rancher hero, and Corinne, the laundress and inventor incognito. They agree to marry one another as a business-only partnership to achieve their career goals. Then unexpected romance blossoms. Past hurts, physical disabilities, and fear of failure hinder their growth in their relationship to the Lord and to each other. Through the story, they learn to overcome the spiritual, physical, and emotional handicaps that keep them from becoming who God wants them to be. This book shows us marriage takes work, communication, commitment, resilience, faith, sacrifice, lots of gratitude, and good counsel. Without the commitment of marriage, how many would stick around and work through the difficult things that cause dissatisfaction in relationships? The story takes on mature, but discreet conversations about complications with married intimacy. Jagears handles the subject matter very delicately and closes the door before any real-time scene treads into the more private aspects of marriage. Melissa’s characters, dialogue, spiritual insight, and delightful “living room” voice keep me coming back for more of her stories. I look forward to reading more from her Frontier Vows series.
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Like Flames in the Night
by
Connilyn Cossette
grnmnml8y
, March 18, 2020
I loved getting to see old friends from earlier in the series and their continued commitment to the growth they experienced in their own stories. The first plot point hinges on a controversial step for Liyam's character, one he defends while still entrenched in his flaws, but which never seems to incur serious consequences. Otherwise, I enjoyed the twists and turns of this story. The romance is very natural and the characters well-matched. Liyam challenges Tirzah to have faith and make wise choices while she encourages him to smile again, to live in light of the blessings God has given him. Above the riveting plots, unique characterization, sweet romantic stories, and complex family trees, the spiritual content of Connilyn's books is what draws me back time and again. I found myself connecting to both Liyam and Tirzah in their faith-journeys from revenge to forgiveness, from insecurity to identity, from latent unbelief to fearless, conquering faith. I loved the through-line of challenging God's people to rise up in faith and live out what they claim to believe, throwing off complacency, fear, and idolatry to engage in the spiritual fight under the banner of the Almighty. *The publisher provided me with a complimentary copy of this title, and I have stated my honest opinion.
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Serving Up Love
by
Tracie Peterson and Karen Witemeyer and Regina Jennings
grnmnml8y
, November 20, 2019
The Characters: Tracie Peterson's "A Flood of Love" gives us a no-nonsense heroine who has worked her way up the chain of command among the Harvey Girls. The hero is a tall, dashing railroad man of mixed Hispanic and Caucasian heritage, and his little daughter is an unforgettable personality. "More Than a Pretty Face," follows the life which Rosalind, from Karen's novel More Than Words Can Say, built for herself after she left Abby and Zach and headed west. The hero, Caleb Durringon is the son of an affluent cattleman, but Caleb has followed his own calling as a western lawyer. Regina Jennings' "Intrigue a la Mode": the heroine is from a large country family in Kansas, and the hero is the confident and determined son of a self-made railroad-baron. Expert dialogue and unique personalities makes these characters very hard to forget. "Grand Encounters" by Jen Turano gives us a quiet-but-rugged businessman who is head-over-heels for a socialite-in-hiding who serves him lunch at the El Tovar Harvey House on the rim of the Grand Canyon. The hero's hilarious motor-mouth brother and the heroine's textured collection of friends provided plenty of giggles. *I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and have provided my honest opinion in this review.
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Until the Mountains Fall
by
Connilyn Cossette
grnmnml8y
, August 04, 2019
In Until the Mountains Fall, Connilyn Cossette gives us a fresh look at the account of the prodigal son, only in her book, the prodigal is a woman. We journey with Rivkah as she discovers a world outside the one that chafed her as a young woman and follow Malakhi as he matures from an impetuous teen and betrothed groom into a wise, battle-scarred warrior. Their love story is beautiful, Malakhi's heart for her an example of Christ's love for us, but just as beautiful is the love Rivkah's father carries for her as he never gives up hope that she will return to him. The characterization is jaw-dropping, and the prose so poetic, the reader can't help but be transported with each page. There are many twists and turns in the plot, each one ratcheting up the stakes and keeping the story tension above the boiling point. This is the book I'd been waiting for all year. It's been a while since a story took me so far and demanded so much of me, leaving my perspectives changed--or at least giving me a broader perspective on things I already believed to be true. I'm convinced I can't do the book justice with this review. Having started at the beginning of the series, re-reading straight through to the newest, there are no words for some of the emotions provoked by this story. It's been some time since I've enjoyed a series as much as I have these books. *I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and have stated my honest opinion in this voluntary review.
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More Than Words Can Say
by
Karen Witemeyer
grnmnml8y
, July 02, 2019
After viewing the cover, more than one person asked me if this was an Amish book. It is not. But the heroine, Abigail, is a successful baker and businesswoman, who is fighting to save her bakery while some unknown person seems to be planning her downfall. With Abigail and Zacharias, a lumberman and son of a famous Mississippi River gambler, Karen brings us a unique story full of hope, humor, sweet moments, and lessons learned. The food-lover in me enjoyed all the bakery references and metaphors--and the fact that Abigail isn't your run-of-the-mill "thin and delicate" heroine. The story of Zacharias, the quietest Hamilton and the last to wed, tugs at the heartstrings, especially of readers who know his backstory from page one. The Romance: I enjoyed watching these characters learn how to communicate with each other and work through hard times together. The use of love languages brought interesting facets to their relationship, and the heroine's insecurities about her body type and the circumstances of the marriage underscore the attraction with realistic conflict. I liked how Zacharias initiated open communication in their marriage from the start, leading the way to a clearer understanding between them. Prior to their wedding, they discussed everything except their compatibility in matters of faith, which serves as the main conflict in their marriage for the second half of the story. I come from a different background than either of these characters, but seems that's the first thing I would have settled when considering marriage, no matter the circumstances. Overall, Zacharias' quiet protectiveness and Abigail's supportive encouragement turn this marriage of convenience into a love match where both want to honor the other and the Lord, which makes for a great story if you ask me. The Pace: The book keeps a pull-you-along pace and was hard to put down once I started reading. I love how Karen gives introspection and character insight without slowing the story too much. The Faith Element: With her husband's gentle leadership, Abigail grows from a place of insecurity into a woman who can focus on joyfully helping others, even while facing hard times of her own. She learns to appreciate Zach, even with all his gruff ways. Zacharias has to come to the place where he sees his sin as God sees it, no excuses, and learns to put family responsibility above his own quest for footloose "freedom." As a whole, I enjoyed the way these threads wrapped up and brought cohesion to the story. The More Factor: I've heard tell that Abigail's sister, Rosalind, will be featured in her own story, a Harvey House tale in the upcoming novella collection, Serving Up Love (Bethany House Publishers, November 2019). Can't wait to read her story, More than Just a Pretty Face. *I received a copy of this book from the publisher and have voluntarily provided my honest opinion in this review.
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The Crossing at Cypress Creek
by
Pam Hillman
grnmnml8y
, July 01, 2019
Romantic Adventure Set In Early Mississippi Years This novel is rich in historical detail, setting, unique characters, and themes of redemption. I read along, fascinated, as "Addled Alanah" foraged for healing herbs and brightly colored mushrooms to sell so she could provide for herself, her mentor, Lydia, and her Uncle Jude and sister Betsy. I felt strong compassion for her as an older sister, given the plight of her sister. Having met all the other brothers in the O'shea clan, I was eager to meet Caleb, the soldier-for-hire who left home amid flared tempers and broken hearts. Alanah's "forest warrior" persona and Caleb's mercenary background make them an excellent team. They both grow in character-specific areas and this book takes them on that journey. The Secondary Characters: The secondary characters in The Crossing at Cypress Creek are all gems. I loved reading about "Looney Lydia," the healer of mixed Native American and African American heritage, and her level-headed approach to tough situations. Her interactions with Tiberius, the mercenary moor, sprinkled humor across the pages. Betsy brings us the initial conflict with the river pirates. Pirate leader Micaiah Jones is a well-rounded villain and a great foil for our hero, Caleb. One of the most interestingly conflicted characters is Uncle Jude, a preacher much like the Biblical Jonah, who is called to cry against the wickedness taking place around him. His struggle to offer mercy to those who destroyed his family prompts the reader to look inward at their own motives and actions. Jude's role in the ending of the story had me turning pages into the small hours of the night. Readers will be delighted to have all the characters from earlier books in the series reunited in this book. Pam included throwback moments with Connor and Isabella and Kiera and Quinn that made me smile. The Romance: Caleb and Alanah share many kisses and moments of attraction throughout the book. Caleb is a wanderer and offers little commitment to go along with his kisses, which provides conflict in his and Alanah's character arcs. My favorite aspect of their romance was his protectiveness toward her whenever she was in danger and his willingness to sacrifice to save her sister--and then her as well. The Faith Element: Jude's story thread, mentioned above, brings continuity and a deep contemplative message to the story. What a character, and what a journey! The redemption message is clearly offered through repentance and faith in Jesus--one thing I deeply appreciate about Pam's books. The Author's Trademarks: Adventure, historical grit, gentle humor, and Biblical truth are trademarks that make Pam Hillman's stories go-to fiction for me. The Stakes: Life and death stakes are strong in this book. In the 1700s, medicine was primitive, and early settlers in the South undertook dangerous tasks to carry out their everyday livelihood. One particular swamp scene with an alligator paints this aspect in living color. Illness and work-related accidents being common enough, these characters face the added dangers of greedy, bloodthirsty river pirates looking for any victim whose possessions might bring a fine price. The Setting: This story's setting is so unique. Unlike any I've read in the Christian Fiction genre. If you've enjoyed the film Davy Crockett and the River Pirates or Distant Drums, starring Gary Cooper, you'll like this adventurous historical tale. *I received a copy of this book from the publisher and have voluntarily provided my honest opinion in this review.
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Shelter of the Most High
by
Connilyn Cossette
grnmnml8y
, October 13, 2018
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More Than Meets the Eye
by
Karen Witemeyer
grnmnml8y
, July 03, 2018
The prologue for this book is powerful. Had me tearing up within the first few minutes of opening the cover. From that point on, you have to know what will happen to the orphan characters, because you've become connected to them on a heart level, every single one. Logan and Eva are both beautifully flawed characters, and their journey is a delight to read. From the heroine's unique family and newfound friends to a horse and pet pig named after Old Testament prophets (one of which wears a red bow to avoid becoming ham steaks), the secondary characters display show-stealer potential. Their plot weaves in and out with the main characters' goals so well. I have a hunch we'll be seeing Zach's story soon, and the anticipation is getting to me already. The jaded son of a riverboat gambler who gave up his dreams to raise two orphans? I have a feeling his story is going to be well worth the wait. I was delighted to see a dual romance thread in this book. Smart, protective men and strong-but-feminine women shine through all the ups and downs of finding love in tough circumstances. The nerd in me loved to see a bookish romance between secondary characters, while the western-loving part of me smiled at the roguish antics of the tough and gruff leading man with his Lady Sunshine. One aspect that sets apart the main romantic story, is the hero's "wooing" the heroine to get information from her that will advance his goals, which of course accidentally turns into a real courtship, leaving our hero with lots of well-deserved inner conflict! I enjoyed watching him squirm under the glaring light of his conscience while wrestling between serving up justice and admitting his heart had found its home with a plucky little farm-girl sporting mismatched eyes. Overall, this story delighted me with surprises and fueled my curiosity for the next book in the series. There were only a couple times I didn't quite understand the hero's decisions in relation to the villain, but the resulting danger and edge-of-your-seat moments saw me turning pages faster to keep up with the action! The author's trademark wit, adventure, and warm western charm saturates this story. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys inspirational western romance with a giggle. *I received a copy of this book from the publisher free of charge. My review is voluntary, and the opinions expressed are my own.
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Chance at Forever
by
Melissa Jagears
grnmnml8y
, June 06, 2018
The Characters: Both the main characters and the secondary characters in this story are unique and have unexpected qualities. The Romance: One thing I love about Melissa Jagears' books is that the romance stories are so unique and unexpected in how they play out. Aaron and Mercy, given their past and present struggles, have to become very vulnerable with one another in order for a relationship to work. Watching them grow brave enough to open up and trust was a joy that kept me turning pages to see what happened next. The Faith Element: Melissa always has a practical and challenging Scriptural message for readers, one the characters show organically through their struggle to learn and use the truth in everyday life. The Author's Trademarks: There is also such relatability and practical, homey flavor to Melissa's stories. No matter the book is set around the turn of the century, I can empathize with the characters' struggles, their goals, and even the world in which they operate. The conflicts are simple, but so strong and personal, a reader can't help but relate. Overall Impression: While I'm sad to see the close of a great series, it was great to revisit familiar characters and see some long, twisted threads tied up into a satisfying resolution. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys clean historical romance filled with hope. The way the characters learn to stand up for truth and for the ones they love is touching and rewarding for the reader. I look forward to seeing what Melissa has coming in the future! *I received a copy of this book from the publisher free of charge. My review is voluntary, and the opinions expressed are my own.
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Hearts Entwined: A Historical Romance Novella Collection
by
Karen Witemeyer and Mary Connealy and Regina Jennings
grnmnml8y
, June 06, 2018
My favorite moments & lines from this collection: The Love Knot "You ARE my future, Claire. Nothing is more important to me than you." Ah! That line! And another moment that stole my heart is later in the book when Peter's sings a low lullaby to a baby. I loved learning about Peter and Claire's history together and where they hailed from. The Tangled Ties that Bind Starting the story with the characters up a tree--literally! Mary Connealy is a comedy genius. There's nothing like getting reacquainted with an old crush while hovering over the deadly horns of a mama buffalo. This scene came to life for me, calling up memories of a trip I took to Wyoming where I saw a buffalo napping beside a picnic table. The giant beast made the table look like doll house furniture. Bound and Determined If you've seen the movie HAWMPS! you will love this gem. Laughed myself to tears in the third chapter. I thought, "Oh no she didn't just go there,” but yes, indeed, she did. Tied and True “Don’t shove away a lifetime of blessing because you fear trials. You’ll have them no matter what you do.” This story began with some beautiful, poignant moments and had me glued all the way through the ending. My Overall Impression: Loved this collection and would recommend to anyone who loves clean historical romance with a side of laughter. I sighed at the many sweet scenes interwoven with comedy and heart-tugging moments. Can't wait to read more from all these authors! *I received a copy of this book from the publisher free of charge. My review is voluntary, and the opinions expressed are my own.
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A Light on the Hill
by
Connilyn Cossette
grnmnml8y
, June 06, 2018
Both main and secondary characters are strikingly vivid in this book. I remember their feature scenes and personality like I had watched them in a theater. I've tried to pick a favorite secondary character, but they're all so masterfully created, I couldn't choose. Even the wicked king of Megiddo was breathtaking to "see" in motion as I read his pages. I'll be honest, I couldn't see a satisfactory ending coming for these star-crossed romantic leads. So much stood in their way, not to mention the small matter of their lives being in danger at almost every moment! But the author pulled it all together in a beautiful conclusion that has me wanting to read the book all over again. As with every Connilyn Cossette book I've read, this title did not fail to bring me to the throne room in worship of our great and amazing God. To see His faithfulness and guidance woven through the fabric of history, even when man is so faithless, brings me to tears and makes me want to serve Him better. The Author's Trademarks: Vivid imagery, research of ancient history, impossible odds and strong attraction between romantic leads, life-threatening stakes, worshipful portrayal of God as omnipotent and yet loving. *I received this book from the publisher free of charge. My review is voluntary, and the opinions expressed my own.
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