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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
labornotinvain has commented on (18) products
Fairest of Heart
by
Karen Witemeyer
labornotinvain
, June 06, 2023
A delightful fairy tale re-telling with a Texas twist! Orphaned at a young age, for Penelope Snow her growing beauty has always been something of a misfortune. Texas Ranger Titus Kingsley is more than a little suspicious of the young woman who has taken up residence with 7 rough and tumble old cowpokes, as he investigates a string of thieving. A charming read from beginning to end, I loved the characters especially the old cowhands with their various defining qualities and tender heart towards Penelope's plight. Such a fun read that brought a smile to my face, I loved Penelope and Titus together. I really enjoyed seeing Ms. Witemeyer's take on a classic tale, bringing it out west and making it her own, infusing it with a strong core of faith. Overall, this was a wonderful read, it brought a smile to my face and I liked Penelope's heart for others. A compelling read with a fairy tale twist, it makes for a cozy escape, entertaining, engaging, filled with romance and not shying away from faith. Highly recommend, and can't wait to read more in this series! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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Shadows in the Mind's Eye
by
Janyre Tromp
labornotinvain
, April 26, 2022
A gripping and gritty story about love, revenge, betrayal, and holding on for better or for worse. I didn't want to put this book down for a second, it kept me guessing all the way up until the explosive conclusion and I loved every minute of it. I liked how the book alternated perspectives between Sam and Annie, their scars and ghost from the past hindering their reunion. Sam is a veteran who has seen countless horrors that haunt his nightmares, returning to fight another battle for his marriage and family. I admired his fierce devotion to his family, and willingness to sacrifice him self many times over for the ones that he loves. This is well layered read, intense and poignant, with honest, raw characters. Masterful storytelling pulled me in and didn't let go until I was finished, I loved the elements of a psychological thriller, as well as how it definitely kept me guessing and holding on tight for the answers. I couldn't have asked for anything more from this stunning and intense read, it checked every box for me and I can't recommend it enough! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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Where the Last Rose Blooms
by
Ashley Clark
labornotinvain
, March 08, 2022
This stunning multi-generational trilogy that wends its way through the past and present day Charleston, binding families and hearts together, comes full circle with this satisfying latest installment. A captivating series, unique in that you can read them out of order or even as stand alones, but each book connects like a precision cut puzzle piece to the others, enriching the experience and lending deeper meaning to the stories. I loved how this book effortlessly shifted between various viewpoints and time periods. In the present day flower shop owner Alice searches for answers about her mother who went missing during hurricane Katrina, while in 1861 Clara takes a stand against her family's wishes, and works to reunite her friend Rose with her daughter. A beautifully written book that I wanted to savor and soak in. The characters are well developed, and I liked how faith was naturally woven into the fabric of the story, and it was wonderful to finally learn Rose's story. One of my favorite parts of the book was Alice and Sullivan's first meeting. A memorable read with compelling characters, and a heartfelt story of courageous women, faith and love, you will not regret picking up any one of this remarkable trilogy. One of my favorites! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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In Search of a Prince
by
Toni Shiloh
labornotinvain
, February 13, 2022
25 year old Brielle Bayo is content with her life as a middle school teacher in New York City, when suddenly it is revealed to her that she is actually a princess in a country halfway around the world. Next thing she knows she is juggling royal duties, court intrigue and searching for a husband! A modern day fairy tale full of faith, friendship, family and romance. Brielle is shocked to find out that she is a princess in a foreign country, but is excited to learn more about her deceased father and the rich history of the land of his birth. I admired Bri for standing up for herself, and being open to the possibilities around her. Iris is an amazing friend and an excellent cheerleader, she has an infectious energy about her. Iris is passionate about her dreams and has a big heart for others. This is a enjoyable read, with a sweet romance and a fun plot. I loved the interaction between Mori and Bri as they get to know each other, as well as how they are both strong in their faith. I think that the author did an excellent job of bringing to life the diverse and fictional kingdom of Oloro Ile, along with the intrigues and politics. But most of all I loved how Brielle was a strong, intelligent woman of faith, open to learning new things and gracefully navigating difficult situations. Excellent for fans of fairy tale romance, with characters you can cheer for. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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Heart Adrift
by
Laura Frantz
labornotinvain
, January 29, 2022
A historically rich slow burn romance, with well researched details that come alive as a love once thought lost is given another chance. A thoughtful read, that pays great attention to detail to bring colonial times to life. One of my favorite things about Ms. Frantz is how she does such a wonderful job of rendering authentic patterns of speech and dialect for the time. This book is no different. Esmee is a sensible and compassionate heroine, who knows her own heart. She is a rock for her father and sister, and through her kindness has won a handful of true friends. Henri is honorable, a man of integrity with a natural leadership about him. Overall, this was a absorbing read that I was loathe to put down. A captivating read with characters masterfully created and brought to life. The story reminded me a bit of Persuasion by Jane Austen. I loved how the faith was a natural part of the everyday lives of the characters, and two of the people that surprised me most were Nathaniel and Eliza. A well written novel of love, faith, hope, as richly tempered as the chocolate. Highly recommend. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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To Treasure an Heiress
by
Roseanna M. White
labornotinvain
, January 23, 2022
One of my very favorite books so far by this author, I loved Sheridan's whimsical optimism and pure heart, his chapters always brought a smile to my face. But it was Ainsley that was my favorite, and I hope to see more of him and Senara in the future as their story was one of my favorite parts of the book. I loved how Ainsley is so open about his faith, quick to offer comfort and wisdom, yet human himself he isn't immune to doubts. Full of adventure and daring, I loved how the dynamic slowly changed between Beth and Sheridan as she begrudgingly lets him work with her, as well as their humorous banter. It was an absolute delight to be in Sheridan's head, he is a rare man indeed, childlike in some ways, yet so wise in others. One of my favorite scenes in the whole book was when he showed that he had been listening to Ainsley all along. Overall, there was not one thing that I didn't love about this story, excellent plot, captivating characters that brought a smile to my face, high adventure, dear Mamm-wynn, a lovely comedic touch, and thoughtfully rendered messages of faith. Beth is a daring heroine, but even she needs help sometimes. And I just wanted to give Senara a hug to help her through everything on her mind. You will not want to miss this fantastic new favorite from Roseanna M. White, it is a five start read all the way through! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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Carved in Stone
by
Elizabeth Camden
labornotinvain
, September 25, 2021
The first in a captivating new series set in the Gilded Age, Carved in Stone introduces the powerful Blackstone family, as secrets are revealed with the future of the largest merger in US history at stake. A captivating and engaging novel, and an excellent introduction to the powerful Blackstone family. I loved how this book juxtaposes the lives of Gwen, Liam and Patrick, who come from vastly different backgrounds, as they try to find common ground and fight for what matters. Gwen is passionate about education, and longs for the close family connection that she was robbed of throughout her life. I admired her willingness to help, her compassion, and courage. Patrick is a hardworking and compassionate lawyer, he holds high standards of integrity for himself, and he is a wonderful friend. Overall, a wonderful introductory to this brand new series by Elizabeth Camden. I loved the characters, rich history, and engaging plot. I'm so excited to see what happens next with this series, crossing my fingers for more on Liam and Natalia! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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Between the Wild Branches
by
Connilyn Cossette
labornotinvain
, July 12, 2021
I knew I would love Lukio's story ever since reading Eliora's story in To Dwell Among Cedars where I was first introduced to the tenderhearted, courageous, and at times rebellious Lukio. But this book blew past all my expectations and may be one of my favorites by this author, obviously the biggest reason for that is its hero. I think what made me like him so much was being able to see him grow up from a stubborn young boy and rebellious teen; how it all shaped him into a courageous man. I liked that he was honest with himself, and I admired how his love for Shoshanna matured throughout the story. This is a gripping read, it grabbed me up quickly and I didn't want to put it down. It is a well plotted read filled with danger, high stakes, and many beautiful friendships. I loved how the pieces fell into place for some excellent twists that had me crowing with glee. Excellent plotting and pacing, well balanced character development and filled with adventure. But probably my favorite parts of this book are the friendships, unlikely and unexpected at times, between people of different stations in life and cultures, a wonderful example of how God can use us and others in each other's lives. The perfect second half of a fantastic duology, highly recommend to fans of Biblical fiction and ancient historical fiction! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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On the Cliffs of Foxglove Manor
by
Jaime Jo Wright
labornotinvain
, June 21, 2021
A highly entertaining and deliciously gothic timeslip novel that skillfully weaves together dual timelines centering around the enigmatic Foxglove Manor which in the present day has been turned into an old folk's home. This book's skillful twists had me guessing until the end, I didn't want to put it down! Mr. Crayne is the perfect tortured hero, noble in an unconventional way, amidst fighting for his own soul, I never thought that I would find myself liking him so much! Kailey is a strong heroine, she has had to be. I loved her relationship with her brother, Jude, how she is protective of him and sees him as an equal when others don't. Jude is a brilliant man who sees things that others can't, making sense out of chaos. The author did an excellent job throughout of dealing with difficult topics like addiction, suicide, trauma, as well as questioning and doubting. Axel is a man of few words, but strong faith and I liked how he was there for Kailey throughout their ordeal. Overall, a beautiful, twisting and at times chillingly gothic tale of greed and secrets. Nobody does this genre like Jaime Jo Wright, who had me equally engaged in both of the timelines and hanging on tight trying to make the connections. A brilliant tale of murder and mystery, On the Cliffs of Foxglove Manor. Highly recommend! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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The Heart's Charge
by
Karen Witemeyer
labornotinvain
, June 15, 2021
Second chances, camaraderie, faith, horses and adorable children, what more could I ask for? I had high expectations for this book, and have been eagerly awaiting its arrival since the moment I finished reading the previous book, and let me say it did not disappoint! This book is a total homerun, with both Mark and Jonah getting their stories in one fantastic book. A engaging page-turner, that I didn't want to put down, and I didn't want to end. This book has it all, with amazing main characters that you can cheer for, great interaction, adorable children, strong faith, horses, with great pacing and plot building along the way. There is a lot going on in the book that keeps everything moving, and I absolutely loved having two heroes and heroines. Even though it's hard to choose, I think that this might be one of my favorites by Ms. Witemeyer! It does help to have read the first book in the series before this one so that the characters are more familiar, plus I don't know why in the world you'd want to skip At Love's Command. Highly recommend, another amazing read from Karen Witemeyer that lived up to and surpassed my high expectations! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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Come Back to Me
by
Jody Hedlund
labornotinvain
, June 07, 2021
A thrillingly romantic time slip novel that catapults Marian into the Medieval times during the dangerous peasant uprising of 1381, where she falls under the protection of the noble warrior, Will Durham. I loved how Ms. Hedlund had Marian navigate the culture shock of time travel, acknowledging the everyday details that would definitely come as an unpleasant surprise. I really though that the author did a great job of navigating the strengths and weaknesses of a different time period that to some would possibly feel oppressive especially in regards to women, how they lived and were treated. I loved the supporting characters, I'm excited to see more of Harrison in the next book, as well as Marian's sister, Ellen. I liked Harrison from the beginning so I was thrilled when I found out that the next book would feature him. Overall, this was an exciting read, with engaging characters and a fresh imaginative plot. A strong start to a new series, with wonderful characters, exciting twists, and amazing chemistry between Will and Marian! I can't wait to see what will happen next! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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The Nature of a Lady
by
Roseanna M. White
labornotinvain
, May 17, 2021
Fantastic characters, filled with mystery, adventure, and a stunningly beautiful setting, this book quickly won me over and had me wishing for the next book in the series before I'd even finished this one. I loved the premise of mistaken identity, with multiple smart capable heroines, a resounding message of faith, and high stakes adventure. This is a well paced and plotted story with a lot of things going on at once and multiple levels of relationships between the various characters. I am definitely hoping to see many familiar faces in future books to come! Definitely a solid read all the way through, you won't want to miss it! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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A Piece of the Moon
by
Chris Fabry
labornotinvain
, May 02, 2021
Heartfelt southern fiction, about treasure, family, love, faith, and Country radio. When an eccentric multi-millionaire buries a treasure in the hill of West Virginia with Scripture based clues, the small town of Emmaus is filled with fortune seekers as local Country radio hosts TD and Waite discuss the latest updates on the search. This book follows a handful of diverse characters with their intertwining storylines from TD searching for the treasure to help an old friend, Waite trying to save the station, Pidge raising a teenager, and Clay coming of age and a budding love of radio. I loved the developing relationship between the various characters, over the course of the book. And I was equally invested in each of the storylines, though my favorite character had to be Clay, hands down. Clay struggles with honest fears, with a wholesome desire to help others. I especially loved his friendship with Waite. A well written story that I didn't want to put down, compelling storytelling, masterfully weaving all of the stories together, with touches of humor, quirkiness, as well as an honesty that gives the story a riveting levity. A feel good story, with a satisfying ending, with some fun twists along the way. I enjoyed every minute of this book. Highly recommend! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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The Dress Shop on King Street
by
Ashley Clark
labornotinvain
, March 23, 2021
A heartfelt novel of dreams, loss, love, heartache, and the history that makes us who we are. Tracing forwards and back lingering on pivotal moments in Millie's life, as well as the stories of Harper and Peter, as they entwine in the past and present day. A beautifully immersive read, with captivating characters that tell their stories and search for answers. Even though the story wends its way through various points in time the lines of the story were easy to follow, and I didn't find myself getting confused and enjoyed watching the pieces come together. This book explores various themes, from the pain of racism, casting two shadows, the ties that bind you to your past, and following your dreams, all infused with faith that shines hope into the darkest days. Millie is an extraordinary woman, full of wisdom, gumption, and faith, and I loved following her through the turning points in her life, as well as her relationship with Harper and how she encourages her in her dreams and love. Peter is a man with big dreams too, he loves reviving pieces of history to preserve their history, while searching for the answers to his own. Overall, a gorgeous blending of past and present, taking inspiration from real life heart rending choices that many had to make. Romance, heartbreak, and dreams realized, I loved everything about this novel. Highly recommend! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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Doubtless: Because Faith Is Hard
by
Shelby Abbott
labornotinvain
, March 02, 2021
A concise read, that tackles the topic of doubt. Shelby Abbott, minister with CRU, takes us through the different types and reasons for doubts, and how we can take that doubt and feed it with faith. I think that this is a fitting book for this author to write, he knows his audience well, and he does an excellent job of presenting this topic in a conversational, digestible way, while still hitting hard. I loved how he talks about how doubt in and of itself is not a bad or negative thing, but it is when we take that doubt and take it into unbelief that it becomes a serious problem. Having questions and feeding our curiosity is normal and how we grow by seeking those answers. One of my favorite quotes is: "People with little or no visible faith are people who just react and don't think. They let their feelings and emotions harass them; the circumstances of their lives corner and oppress them. It takes thought to have faith. When in doubt, don't think less and let circumstances push you further into doubt. Work through your doubt and think more." Overall, an encouraging book about struggling with doubt and how we can take that doubt and grow by feeding it with faith instead of unbelief. This book also has many good resources, giving readers who are interested, a good reading list to feed their faith. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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When Twilight Breaks
by
Sarah Sundin
labornotinvain
, February 28, 2021
A captivating Pre-WWII novel, that wrapped me up in its spell as Sarah Sundin brings to life the conflicts, ideologies, and injustices going on in Germany just a year before the world's deadliest war. Ms. Sundin skillfully brings to life the dangers of living in Germany in the tumultuous year before the official start of WWII, with characters who represent a variety of positions and ideas. I admired Evelyn for her courage and compassion for others, though she is independent and sees leaning on others as a weakness. Peter is a brilliant man, dedicated to his realm of study, Evelyn opens his eyes to what is going on in the broader world around him, and I loved how he lives out his faith and we see his understanding of the issues change over the course of the book. Overall, a gripping read, with a powerful storyline, and courageous characters willing to sacrifice for the freedom of others. This book is a bit different from other books by this author, as the previous books tended to focus on different branches of the US military in the thick of the war, while this one shows a different perspective I that enjoyed just as much if not more for its compelling, high stakes storytelling. This book will not disappoint! Highly recommend! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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His to Keep: A Medieval Romance
by
Sherrinda Ketchersid
labornotinvain
, February 25, 2021
A Scottish knight comes to claim his ramshackle inheritance, which includes a reluctant bride set against marrying her enemy. Claire Beaumont is the orphaned ward of Whitfield, promised in marriage to whomever claims Whitfield as their inheritance, which no one has wanted to claim because of its lack of upkeep and neglect. Claire loves her home, and the people that have become her family. She is clever and resourceful, stubborn, yet compassionate, treating those around her with respect and dignity. Ian McGowan, has worked hard to make a way for himself apart from his family, and is thrilled to be able to put down roots in a place to call his own. I admired his willingness to listen to Claire's ideas about how to run Whitfield, as well as how he worked alongside his tenants to make the keep a success. An engaging romance with captivating characters, and a compelling romance. I loved getting to know the tenants of Whitfield, as they all come together to work for the chance at a brighter and more secure future. Ian has a great friend in Phillip, who gives him advice on everything from running the keep to how to woo his intended. All in all a completely enjoyable read, with well developed characters throughout, excellent storytelling, character interaction, and relationship building, with themes of faith and friendship. Highly recommend! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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The Prince of Spies
by
Elizabeth Camden
labornotinvain
, February 24, 2021
Drawing from real life trials testing food safety as people because more reliant on store shelves for stocking their pantries. Thoroughly researched, Ms. Camden has a gift for bringing the Gilded Age to life in vivid detail, deftly showing how the luxuries we take for granted everyday came to be. I knew I would love this book as soon as I heard about it, Luke is a daring hero, with strong convictions and sense of justice. I've enjoyed seeing him grow, find faith, and mature in the previous books, which I devoured. I enjoyed getting a more humanizing view of the inner workings of the MacGruder family through the eyes of Marianne, seeing their struggles, failures, as well as how they rose from nothing to the owners of a food empire to be reckoned with. I admired Marianne for her courage in facing the truths about her family. Overall, this was a engrossing read, and satisfying read from beginning to end that brings history to life. A captivating read that was impossible to put down, with excellent pacing and fantastic characters, I especially liked bantering comradery of the Poison Squad, as well as how the MacGruder clan explored in a realistic dimensional way. Highly recommend this book, the whole series, and everything by this author! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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