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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
dawggirl15 has commented on (31) products
In Search of a Prince
by
Toni Shiloh
dawggirl15
, March 02, 2022
I have read a lot of Toni Shiloh’s books because she’s a wonderful author and I love her stories. But this one just might be my favorite! I’m a sucker for a good princess story and I knew I wanted to read this one the moment I saw the beautiful cover. Add in unknown princess status and a must marry before taking the throne Princess Diaries style and I was hooked! Oloro Ilé was everything I hoped for and more and I honestly wish I could go visit. I didn’t want to say goodbye to this beautiful paradise and it’s unique culture and traditions and am so glad I get to “revisit” again with the next book. While I knew I would love this story, what I was not expecting was to fall in love with the characters so much. From the hero of the story who shall remain nameless to Brielle and Iris’s friendship all the way down to Dayo and Chidi, I loved them all and desperately wished they were all real. Brielle’s relationship with her grandfather was also sweet and beautiful from the beginning and I enjoyed seeing it grow over the course of the story. And of course, the message, never preachy but still crucial to the story and characters. I loved the themes of forgiveness, trusting God, and that it ultimately only matters who God says you are, loved and chosen. All of these are so relatable and for me personally the last two really resonated. This is why I always come back to Toni Shiloh’s stories. They’re not only a fun, engaging escape, but they also touch my heart in so many ways.
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Shadow: Volume 2
by
Kara Swanson
dawggirl15
, July 16, 2021
This is a beautifully written book! It was very intriguing! I couldn’t put it down! I had to keep reading to find out what happened next. I love the characters, and the little places in Neverland that were just filled with light and beauty. Kara Swanson took action, romance, and danger and put it all together in one of the best books I’ve ever read. It was even better than Dust. I highly recommend this!
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An Unlikely Proposal
by
Toni Shiloh
dawggirl15
, February 18, 2021
I have to be honest— I love marriage of convenience stories. Regency England, Western, or contemporary I love them all. I also love best friends to something more stories. So when one of my favorite author’s announced both were taking place in An Unlikely Proposal, I knew I’d love it. And it did not disappoint! I loved Omar and Trinity’s relationship from the beginning and enjoyed seeing how it changed throughout the story as they learned to let go of past hurts and trust one another. Omar’s young daughters Faith and Joy are adorable and I loved all of the other characters sprinkled in throughout the story. As with all of Toni Shiloh’s stories, the minor characters, like Rock and Trinity’s parents, have just the right amount personality, humor, and wisdom. And my favorite part is how their wisdom and the story always point back to God in a way that’s touching and honest, without being seeming preachy or forced. So if you’re looking for a bright, cheerful story to help you keep cozy through the rest of winter, check this one out!
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The Trouble With Love: Faith & Fortune 1
by
Toni Shiloh
dawggirl15
, August 19, 2020
I absolutely loved this story! Following the lives of three heiresses living in NYC, this particular novel focuses on pop star Holiday Brown and her jaded view on love. Add in a lack of musical inspiration, her roommate’s brother that she can’t stand, and someone stalking and threatening one of her best friends and Holiday’s story is full of fun and excitement from the first page to the last. I loved the relationship between Holiday, Tori, and Octavian. There conversations were hilarious and they were always pushing each other to be their best and take chances. And the banter between Holiday and Emmett complete with annoying (adorable!) nicknames? Perfect. And the best part of all is how relatable the characters are. Despite being a famous heiress, Holiday’s struggles are very much ones we all struggle with. From questioning her worth and offering forgiveness to learning to be vulnerable and trust in love, Holiday’s story is one we can all relate to, providing wisdom and encouragement intermingled with its romance and humor. Toni Shiloh has quickly become one of my favorite authors and I’ll pick up anything with her name on it. But, this is definitely one of my favorites by her and I can’t wait for the rest of the series.
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At Love's Command
by
Karen Witemeyer
dawggirl15
, June 24, 2020
I love Karen Witemeyer’s novels and this one did not disappoint! Filled with her signature humor and wit, At Love’s Command is brimming with adventure and excitement. Whether it’s playful exchanges between the members of Hanger’s Horsemen or the sweet and sassy conversations between Matt and Dr. Jo, the banter in this book guaranteed to make you smile. I instantly loved the members of Hanger’s Horsemen and their wide array of personalities and skills reminded me of the Archer brothers and the ladies of Harper’s Station. Add in a kidnapping and a touching story about trusting and surrendering to God and you’ve got a perfect summer read! Fair warning though: you’re going to fall in love with all of the members of Hanger’s Horsemen and want to finish their stories!
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At Loves Command
by
Karen Witemeyer
dawggirl15
, June 24, 2020
I love Karen Witemeyer’s novels and this one did not disappoint! Filled with her signature humor and wit, At Love’s Command is brimming with adventure and excitement. Whether it’s playful exchanges between the members of Hanger’s Horsemen or the sweet and sassy conversations between Matt and Dr. Jo, the banter in this book guaranteed to make you smile. I instantly loved the members of Hanger’s Horsemen and their wide array of personalities and skills reminded me of the Archer brothers and the ladies of Harper’s Station. Add in a kidnapping and a touching story about trusting and surrendering to God and you’ve got a perfect summer read! Fair warning though: you’re going to fall in love with all of the members of Hanger’s Horsemen and want to finish their stories!
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If for Any Reason: A Nantucket Love Story
by
Courtney Walsh
dawggirl15
, May 03, 2020
Courtney Walsh has quickly become one of my favorite authors, and this new book is no exception! With a story inside as bright as the cover, this book is filled with hope and second chances. Add in old letters, a small town theatre, and a gorgeous setting and I was hooked. I’ve always wanted to visit Nantucket and now I want to go even more. It’s a perfect summer love story to carry you through February into warmer days
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If for Any Reason
by
Courtney Walsh
dawggirl15
, May 03, 2020
Courtney Walsh has quickly become one of my favorite authors, and this new book is no exception! With a story inside as bright as the cover, this book is filled with hope and second chances. Add in old letters, a small town theatre, and a gorgeous setting and I was hooked. I’ve always wanted to visit Nantucket and now I want to go even more. It’s a perfect summer love story to carry you through February into warmer days
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More Than Words Can Say
by
Karen Witemeyer
dawggirl15
, June 28, 2019
Another fun, sweet story! I absolutely love Karen Witemeyer’s novels. She’s one of my favorite historical fiction authors for a reason and this book was no exception. While I thoroughly enjoyed the first Patchwork Family novel, I’ve been looking forward to More Than Words Can Say since I finished the first one. As much as I loved Evangeline and Logan, Zach was without a doubt my favorite character. Underneath the tough exterior he shows the world, he’s really just a big sweetheart looking for someone to see his past and love him anyways. And Abigail’s passion and sass were the perfect match for him. What started out as a marriage of convenience quickly turned into a sweet love story. Zach and Abigail helped each other overcome the guilt about their individual pasts and learn to see themselves as God sees them– forgiven. Throw in some mystery, adventure, and a fist fight or two along with Karen Witemeyer’s signature humor and this is a sweet, fun story that I liked just as much as the first novel, if not more.
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More Than Words Can Say
by
Karen Witemeyer
dawggirl15
, June 28, 2019
Another fun, sweet story! I absolutely love Karen Witemeyer’s novels. She’s one of my favorite historical fiction authors for a reason and this book was no exception. While I thoroughly enjoyed the first Patchwork Family novel, I’ve been looking forward to More Than Words Can Say since I finished the first one. As much as I loved Evangeline and Logan, Zach was without a doubt my favorite character. Underneath the tough exterior he shows the world, he’s really just a big sweetheart looking for someone to see his past and love him anyways. And Abigail’s passion and sass were the perfect match for him. What started out as a marriage of convenience quickly turned into a sweet love story. Zach and Abigail helped each other overcome the guilt about their individual pasts and learn to see themselves as God sees them– forgiven. Throw in some mystery, adventure, and a fist fight or two along with Karen Witemeyer’s signature humor and this is a sweet, fun story that I liked just as much as the first novel, if not more.
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More Than Words Can Say
by
Karen Witemeyer
dawggirl15
, June 28, 2019
Another fun, sweet story! I absolutely love Karen Witemeyer’s novels. She’s one of my favorite historical fiction authors for a reason and this book was no exception. While I thoroughly enjoyed the first Patchwork Family novel, I’ve been looking forward to More Than Words Can Say since I finished the first one. As much as I loved Evangeline and Logan, Zach was without a doubt my favorite character. Underneath the tough exterior he shows the world, he’s really just a big sweetheart looking for someone to see his past and love him anyways. And Abigail’s passion and sass were the perfect match for him. What started out as a marriage of convenience quickly turned into a sweet love story. Zach and Abigail helped each other overcome the guilt about their individual pasts and learn to see themselves as God sees them– forgiven. Throw in some mystery, adventure, and a fist fight or two along with Karen Witemeyer’s signature humor and this is a sweet, fun story that I liked just as much as the first novel, if not more.
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Belinda Blake and the Snake in the Grass
by
Heather Day Gilbert
dawggirl15
, June 27, 2019
Another amazing mystery by Heather Day Gilbert! And a fun start to a new series! I have read several of Heather Day Gilbert’s mysteries and I am always amazed by her ability to keep me on the edge of my seat and guessing until the very end. Her books make me go full Sherlock Holmes-mode in an attempt to solve the mystery before the sleuth and this one is no exception. “Well all the clues point to person x so it must be person y. Or is she trying to make me think it’s person y when it’s really some random person z I never even considered?” And yet, I was still stunned when the killer was revealed. That’s how awesome her novels are. However, my favorite part of any of Heather Day Gilbert’s mysteries is the world and characters she creates. She creates such an intriguing world filled with quirky, relatable characters that I’m just as invested in the characters’ lives as the mystery. I loved Belinda’s character and her relationships with her family. If these characters were real, I feel certain we’d be great friends. And I cannot wait to read the next novel! Not just because of the mystery, but because I can’t wait to see more of Belinda Blake, the crazy animals she takes care of, and the guy she has a crush on.
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Now and Then and Always: A Maple Valley Romance
by
Melissa Tagg
dawggirl15
, June 27, 2019
There are some books that you finish and then instantly reach for the next one in the series. Or if there’s not another book available, you start right back at the beginning or flip through and reread your favorite parts, smiling and crying all over again. This was one of those books. I’d read two of Melissa Tagg’s novellas and loved them, so I couldn’t wait to try a full-length novel. From the gorgeous cover and desperation-filled prologue to the heartwarming conclusion and final lines, I was instantly in love with the characters, their stories, and the charming little bed and breakfast at the heart of it all. You know an author is amazing when you desperately wish their fictional settings were real. If Maple Valley existed, I would pick up and move in a heartbeat. The charming little town is filled with loveable, quirky characters that I want to know more about. I’m excited to go back and read the other novels set in Maple Valley and learn more about the side characters that I loved in this novel. And I can’t wait until the next to learn more about Sam, and Jen, and Lucas. I don’t want to give anything away about the book because it was that wonderful and you should just pick it up and experience it for yourself. But, I will tell you that I smiled, laughed, and cried more than once. Melissa Tagg’s romances are just so much fun. From the adorable meet-cute to their own personal struggles to find themselves, Mara and Marshall were amazing characters. I loved them individually, but especially together. I cried with them and cheered for them to find their way, not only back to each other, but back to the God who loves them now and then and always. When I picked this book, I chose it because of the beautiful cover and the intriguing premise. I didn’t realize how much I needed this story and how much I needed to hear the same words that Mara and Marshall needed to hear. That no matter how hard life is or how lost I feel, God and His love have always been there. Yes, this book is fun and sweet. But it’s also real and raw and heart-wrenching. And overflowing with the hope and the love that comes from the God of hope and love Himself. Filled with romance, humor, a little bit of mystery, and a whole lot of heart, Now and Then and Always is a beautiful story of hope and the never-ending love of God. “God, who’d loved her with an always and everywhere kind of love, even when she hadn’t seen it”
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This Is the Day
by
Tim Tebow, J Gregory
dawggirl15
, September 25, 2018
I have read every single Tim Tebow book there is, and judging by how great this one is, I cannot wait for the next!! These books are a must-read! I completely agree with the “stepping out of your comfort zone” part of it. We have become a hiding society, content to stay within our comfort zone instead of seizing each and every day as a gift from God. I also appreciated how he tries to encourage us in the storms of life and to keep pursuing our dreams. I highly recommend this series. I hope you decide to read this series of great and powerful books and are reminded that this is the day to change the world!!
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Thirst of Steel
by
Ronie Kendig
dawggirl15
, August 29, 2018
An epic conclusion to an amazing series! All I can say is wow! It’s black-ops military meets Indiana Jones and it’s so much fun! This book was a perfect culmination of all the hints and twists from the previous two books, with additional layers of depth and twists and turns I never saw coming. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend the series. I was sad to see it end and will miss all of the characters, but hopefully we’ll see some of them again in future books.
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Thirst of Steel
by
Ronie Kendig
dawggirl15
, August 29, 2018
An epic conclusion to an amazing series! All I can say is wow! It’s black-ops military meets Indiana Jones and it’s so much fun! This book was a perfect culmination of all the hints and twists from the previous two books, with additional layers of depth and twists and turns I never saw coming. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend the series. I was sad to see it end and will miss all of the characters, but hopefully we’ll see some of them again in future books.
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Solace of Water
by
Elizabeth Byler Younts
dawggirl15
, July 13, 2018
A heart-wrenching story of grief and forgiveness This is an amazing book and a beautifully written story! I had never read any of Elizabeth Byler Younts’ books before this one and I was absolutely stunned at the intricate plot and the emotional depth of the characters. Too often, fiction gives us unrealistic characters, but DeeDee, Emma, and Sparrow were raw, messy characters. Their struggles and grief were unbelievably real and my heart hurt for them multiple times throughout the story. The first person narrative had me cheering for them despite their flaws, especially DeeDee. If you were to take the rich historical depth of Laura Frantz’s novels, and combine it with Katie Ganshert’s messy, relatable characters, you would get this novel. The Solace of Water is not an easy story, covering a range of topics from racism and prejudice, alcoholism and cutting, to secrets and the effects of grief and unforgiveness. Yet despite all of this, the book is saturated in hope. I cried at the end of this book, not because of the darkness of their struggles, but because of the light and the eternal hope it was pointing to.
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More Than Meets the Eye
by
Karen Witemeyer
dawggirl15
, July 01, 2018
Another fabulous story! This is a fantastic start to what is going to be an amazing new series. More Than Meets the Eye is the first book in The Patchwork Family series and it’s an amazing story, from the tear-jerking prologue to the sweet ending. I immediately fell in love with the characters and the makeshift family they created. Evangeline is the heart and soul of the family and I loved her cheerful, sassy personality and bright outlook on life, even after all the tragedy and rejection she had experienced. Her pet boar Hezekiah was an adorable, quirky addition and I loved his role in bringing her and Logan together. Evangeline and Logan were a fun, sweet couple and I love how they pushed each other to be better versions of themselves. Logan’s story arc was especially powerful as he was forced to relinquish the bitterness he had been harboring and offer forgiveness instead of revenge. I also loved the additional mystery with Seth and Christie. However, my favorite character was definitely Zach. I loved how much he sacrificed to take care of his family and how protective of them he was. I cannot wait to read his story. Filled with Karen Witemeyer’s signature wit and charm, this story is a fun, sweet adventure that reminds us that our worth is more than what meets the eye. “For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” ~1 Samuel 16:7b
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No One Ever Asked
by
Katie Ganshert
dawggirl15
, April 07, 2018
Just when I think I know my favorite Katie Ganshert novel, she releases another one. And this might be her best yet. Based on true events, No One Ever Asked confronts a myriad of issues from the harsh realities of racism and the increased segregation of our school system to family relationships and transracial adoptions. This is a beautiful story of three very different women and the way their lives intersect for the better. Jen’s adoption struggles were eye-opening and inspiring. Camille’s family issues were realistic and changed my perception of her throughout the book. But Anaya’s story was my favorite. I loved how strong and caring she was and loved being able to see life through her eyes, especially the prejudices inherent in our society. However, what amazed me the most in this book was the complexity of each storyline. Their stories are so well-developed that Anaya, Camille, and Jen each could have their own book. But, instead of their stories suffering from being shared, their stories beautifully intersect and enrich one another, creating a compelling picture of a divided community on its way to healing. Life doesn’t give us one struggle at a time and each woman faced multiple problems simultaneously throughout the book. In a world where even contemporary fiction has a tendency to become fantasy, it is always refreshing to meet characters that struggle. Characters that have flaws but don’t let their flaws define them. Characters that inspire you to persevere and believe and “be the change where you’re at.” And that’s exactly what I get every time I read one of Katie Ganshert’s novels. I loved this story and, as with most of her novels, I cried at the end. Because at its core, it’s a story of broken people becoming whole and completely free in Christ. We cannot escape the past, but through Christ, we can all experience freedom.
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No One Ever Asked
by
Katie Ganshert
dawggirl15
, April 07, 2018
Just when I think I know my favorite Katie Ganshert novel, she releases another one. And this might be her best yet. Based on true events, No One Ever Asked confronts a myriad of issues from the harsh realities of racism and the increased segregation of our school system to family relationships and transracial adoptions. This is a beautiful story of three very different women and the way their lives intersect for the better. Jen’s adoption struggles were eye-opening and inspiring. Camille’s family issues were realistic and changed my perception of her throughout the book. But Anaya’s story was my favorite. I loved how strong and caring she was and loved being able to see life through her eyes, especially the prejudices inherent in our society. However, what amazed me the most in this book was the complexity of each storyline. Their stories are so well-developed that Anaya, Camille, and Jen each could have their own book. But, instead of their stories suffering from being shared, their stories beautifully intersect and enrich one another, creating a compelling picture of a divided community on its way to healing. Life doesn’t give us one struggle at a time and each woman faced multiple problems simultaneously throughout the book. In a world where even contemporary fiction has a tendency to become fantasy, it is always refreshing to meet characters that struggle. Characters that have flaws but don’t let their flaws define them. Characters that inspire you to persevere and believe and “be the change where you’re at.” And that’s exactly what I get every time I read one of Katie Ganshert’s novels. I loved this story and, as with most of her novels, I cried at the end. Because at its core, it’s a story of broken people becoming whole and completely free in Christ. We cannot escape the past, but through Christ, we can all experience freedom.
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Guilt by Association
by
Heather Day Gilbert
dawggirl15
, December 29, 2017
Another thrilling mystery! Guilt by Association is the highly anticipated next installment in Heather Day Gilbert’s Murder in the Mountain series. And it does not disappoint. Only this time, instead of a serial killer, Tess is taking on the local drug dealers in an attempt to vindicate her mom, who is the prime suspect in a teen’s overdose. Facades and lies abound in this thrilling adventure as Tess races against time to discover the murderer, before another innocent person is killed. Just when I think that the next mystery cannot possibly be better than the last, Heather Day Gilbert surprises me again. This was an amazing mystery that kept me guessing about the true killer’s identity until the very end and I couldn’t put it down. But, my favorite part of this mystery series is the multiple layers of depth in each one. This is not just a good mystery. It’s also a great story about fun, realistic characters. While the mystery is the driving force, I love the characters just as much as the suspense. Tess is an awesome character and the rest of her family and friends are a fun, colorful bunch that I wish I could meet. Not only does Heather Day Gilbert do an excellent job developing pre-existing favorites, but she also adds in new characters that are just as interesting. While I missed Charlotte in this book, I loved getting to see Detective Tucker again and am looking forward to seeing more of him in future books. I am also looking forward to finding out more about the mysterious, yet ever-helpful Axel. But, even with all these awesome characters, my favorite part was the introduction of Brady. I loved him and his interactions with Tess. He was a sweet, adorable character and I cannot wait to see more of him in the next book.
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Crown of Souls
by
Ronie Kendig
dawggirl15
, September 07, 2017
Indiana Jones meets Black-Ops! This is an awesome, fast-paced story that draws you in from the first line: "It took one ten thousandth of a second- exactly 0.000169 seconds- for the bullet to rip through his shoulder." And it doesn't slow down until the end. Even then it leaves you anxiously waiting for the next book. While celebrating the 4th of July with his team, Tox is shot by a sniper on his home soil, with a crown etched on the bullet as his only clue. After four other people are also killed by a sniper bullet with a crown engraving, Tox and his team are forced to track down an old army friend who has gone rogue and stolen an ancient crown, using its power in the name of justice. Torn between following orders and staying true to his friend, Tox must first conquer the darkness within himself while doing everything he can to keep his team and loved ones safe. This was my first book by Ronie Kendig and it was awesome! I absolutely loved it and couldn't put it down. Tox and his team are a great cast of characters and I loved the team almost as much as Tox. I enjoyed their unique personalities and frequently laughed at their banter. The historical aspect was equally intriguing and puts an exciting twist on this high-action story. Kendig weaves the past and present together seamlessly and I loved how they intersected, paving the way for a smashing third installment. While this is the second installment in the series, it could easily be read as a standalone. However, there are so many backstories, relationships, and character developments you miss out on by skipping the first one. I can't wait to go back and read it so I can enjoy Crown of Souls even more.
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Just Look Up
by
Courtney Walsh
dawggirl15
, July 11, 2017
This my first book I've read by Courtney Walsh, but it will definitely not be my last. Forced to take time off her job in Chicago because her brother is in a coma, Lane Kelly reluctantly returns home to Harbor Pointe and the insecurities buried there. Apart from the busy life she's built for herself, Lane must face the sister who betrayed her trust, the family she's still bitter towards, and Ryan Brooks, one of her few friends growing up. During their time taking care of her brother, Brooks gently questions Lane's life in Chicago, pointing out the flaws in her view of success and the phone that controls her identity. Through Brooks' persistence and perspective on life, Lane comes to realize that her identity is not found in her awards and success at work, but in the unconditional love of God. She does not have to constantly strive to be more- being who God created her is enough. Filled with relatable characters and a charming tourist town that I didn't want to leave, the novel is a touching tale of forgiveness, unconditional love, and the beautiful life God has given us if we just look up.
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Heart on the Line
by
Karen Witemeyer
dawggirl15
, June 11, 2017
There's a reason Karen Witemeyer is one of my favorite historical fiction authors and definitely my favorite Western author. And like all her other novels, this story does not disappoint. Filled with her signature mix of adventure, humor, and romance, this story is simply sweet and fun. Falling in love "over the wire" presents a unique twist to this historical romance that culminates in a high stakes adventure as Grace and Amos attempt to protect one another from harm. The subplot with Helen and Lee is also endearingly sweet as Lee slowly convinces Helen to love again. While all of Witemeyer's characters are memorable, I really loved Grace and Amos. Both Amos and Grace consider themselves to be less than desirable- Grace due to her shy, quiet ways and Amos because of his emphasis on intellect versus physical size. However, appearances are deceiving as both characters not only have a strong moral integrity, but are fiercely loyal to their loved ones, willing to sacrifice their lives for each other. Both characters have the heart of a lion and their immense courage in the the face of danger and fear is inspiring, proving that character is worth more than physical appearance. But, I think Amos said it best: "He might not be a lawman or have muscles the size of boulders, but he had heart." And as the story shows, ultimately, that's all that matters.
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The Gathering
by
K. E. Ganshert
dawggirl15
, September 08, 2015
The final installment in a trilogy either makes or breaks it. There's a reason most fans' favorite movies are Return of the Jedi or Return of the King. They are the phenomenal conclusions that earned their trilogies the titles of epics. The Gathering is no different. As a whole, the trilogy is intricate, filled with realistic characters whose growth is illuminated in this final installment as they come full circle. As a book, The Gathering is a masterpiece. Jam-packed with excitement, suspense, betrayal, loss, love, and sacrifice. The writing is beautiful and powerful, every word evoking so much emotion that it is hard to move on and remember that these characters are fictional. I love Tess, Luka, and Link. I have laughed and cried with them throughout their journey. I'm sad that it's over. I'm sad that I have to say goodbye. But, I will see them again whenever I open up one of these books, jumping right back into their lives and story wherever I happen to open the book up to. Because the books and characters are just that good and that real. This trilogy has jerked my emotions more than any other series to date and will forever hold a special place in my heart. I honestly could not choose a favorite book in this perfect series. The Gifting that gave me Tess and Luka. The Awakening that showed Tess's potential and gave me Link. Or The Gathering, the stunning and beautiful conclusion, which shoots for the stars and soars right past, launching this trilogy into epic.
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The Awakening
by
K. E. Ganshert
dawggirl15
, July 20, 2015
I can't even begin to describe how much I LOVED this book!! It picked up right where the first left off and didn't slow down. It's impossible to explain the emotions I felt while reading The Awakening. I didn't think I could love Tess and Luka more, but I do. I missed Leela a little bit and some of Tess and Luka's conversations, but they were replaced with this awesome guy named Link. Link is loads of fun and lightens the mood of the book while helping Tess gain confidence in herself and her abilities. Also, I loved learning about the other members of The Gifting and watching Tess's Gifting grow. While Luka is much more serious in this book (and rightfully so), he and Tess still have some fun moments, which are all the more sweeter considering the growth in their relationship. That being said, I have never been so emotionally attached to two characters as Tess and Luka. They are fictional, right?! I have laughed with them and I have cried with them. I read the book at lightning speed to make sure they were okay. And, I'm still thinking about them two weeks later. Crazy, I know. But as much as I loved Tess in the first book, and still do, I think Luka is actually my favorite character due to his sweet, selfless personality. (Sorry, Link!) I. Can't. Wait. For the third book to see how it all ends. Honestly, at first I wasn't even sure where the second book ended and the third's excerpt started due to reading so fast. (Although, I have since remedied that by rereading.) If The Gifting was the origin story, The Awakening was the smashing first installment, leaving you breathless and anxious for the sequel!
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The Gifting
by
K. E. Ganshert
dawggirl15
, July 20, 2015
All I can say is wow!! I cannot even begin to describe how I feel about this book. This is Mrs. Ganshert's debut into YA lit but she executes it like a pro. I loved The Gifting! It is the perfect combination of dystopian, paranormal, and romance without one overpowering the others. The book starts off a little slow, but then I couldn't put it down. The plot is full of surprises and I was definitely stunned at how fast it ended. I inwardly screamed at the end. And after reading book 2's preview. And after realizing the next book doesn't come out for another month. Also, I loved the characters and am still struggling to stop thinking about them. Luka is sweet and protective of Tess. And Tess is awesome. Other than the crazy, paranormal part and the family dynamics, I found Tess highly relatable. She's just a sweet, shy, ordinary girl struggling to fit into a world where crazy doesn't exist. Her inner monologue had me smiling at times and I frequently grinned during her interactions with Luka. Correction: I couldn't stop grinning. I can't wait to see what happens in the second book! All this to say, if you love The Hunger Games or Divergent, this is the book for you!
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Trial by Twelve
by
Heather Day Gilbert
dawggirl15
, July 20, 2015
Another great edge of your seat mystery by Heather Day Gilbert! I was excited to read this next mystery in the series and I was not disappointed! This series has two of the best mysteries I have read and the second one was even better than the first. The serial killer succeeded in raising the tension and the stakes resulting in another awesome case for Tess to solve. Also, I'm extremely impressed with Mrs. Gilbert's character development. The characters are fun and realistic. She strikes the perfect balance in her novels between the mystery and their ordinary, everyday lives and relationships. Both aspects succeed in moving the book forward without being overwhelming. I actually enjoy the character's non-mystery stories as much as the mystery and can't wait to revisit the wonderful members of the Spencer family in the third book.
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Miranda Warning
by
Heather Day Gilbert
dawggirl15
, July 20, 2015
All I can say is wow! This was a fantastic mystery with lots of twists and turns that kept me guessing until the end. And, I loved Tess!!! I wish I knew her in real life. Her character was so much fun and I loved reading the mystery from her point of view. Her interactions with Thomas were definitely some of my favorite parts! I also now have a desire to visit West Virginia. This is the first novel I have read by Mrs. Gilbert and it certainly will not be my last. I can't wait to read the next mystery in the series!
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The Art of Losing Yourself
by
Katie Ganshert
dawggirl15
, April 21, 2015
This is by far my favorite Katie Ganshert novel! It's a beautiful story of broken dreams, hope, and faith. I fell in love with the characters instantly, especially Gracie. Her down to earth personality and sarcasm frequently made me smile. Her relationship and conversations with Elias were always lots of fun and easily my favorite part. I would love a whole novel devoted to them post-high school. I also enjoyed Carmen's story as well, further magnified by the connection between it and the author. I admired Carmen's perseverance in overcoming her flaws and struggles and loved her Aunt Ingrid. "Not all things are worth saving, you know. But some are worth every ounce of fight you can throw at them." Katie does an excellent job creating realistic, flawed characters with a storyline that grabs you from the start. Together, Carmen and Gracie work to rebuild the rundown motel their family owns and their relationships, while trying to grasp that you can't be found until you master the art of losing yourself. Even though the ending to both stories are not perfect happily ever afters, you know that everything will be alright. Because Carmen and Gracie have both come to grips with their faith and the realization that God can breathe life into anything, no matter how empty.
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Broken Kind of Beautiful
by
Katie Ganshert
dawggirl15
, April 21, 2015
A Broken Kind of Beautiful touched me in so many ways. Being from the South, I enjoyed the Southern setting complete with old plantations, oak trees, crabbing, and sweet tea. The language appeared poetic at times with its rhythm and beauty. Likewise, the plot was well-developed with a moderate pace and a surprising twist at the end. The characters were lovable and realistic, so much so that my heart broke repeatedly for Ivy and the pain that consumed her. Although Ivy was the main character, my favorite character was her stepmother Marilyn due to her unwavering faith in God and her unexplainable love for Ivy, even when both caused her pain. I cried several times near the end of the book, tears of sorrow and joy. The book abounds with broken people in need of healing. The photographer with a hidden past, the woman with no children of her own, and the beautiful model who believes no one truly loves her. Through all of this, the healing power of God's love shines as a reminder that He is strong enough to heal the hurt and gentle enough to relentlessly pursue and redeem the broken. In the end, the book is not about Ivy, Davis, or Marilyn. The story is about God's loving redemption- which can only be described as beautiful.
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