Review: In the Field of Grace

In the Field of Grace by Tessa Afshar

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Having read three other books by Tessa Afshar, I must admit I was disappointed in this book. Maybe the character of Ruth didn't lend itself to the way the author usually writes. I don't know. But I felt like the story lacked the depth that her other stories did. It's a simple, sweet, fictional telling of the biblical story of Ruth with a back story for Boaz and Ruth. I did like the way Naomi cared for Ruth and Ruth cared for Naomi. The story also touches on trust, surrender, faith, and healing, and redemption. Not a bad read, just not one of my favorites from this author.

*Thanks to Moody Publishers and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC of the book in exchange for my honest opinion & review.*



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Review: Duty

Duty by Rachel Rossano

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



I really enjoyed this fast paced, action packed, medieval romance. Tomas Dyrease, the newly made Earl of Irvaine, is tasked with the duty of strengthening the allegiances of the region by marrying Brielle Solarius, the Lady of the village of Wisenvale in the fictitious land of Rhynan. I loved the chemistry between the two. In spite of being reluctant to enter into this arranged marriage, both Tomas and Brielle quickly find themselves falling in love. Even though he holds the title of Earl, Tomas is a rough around the edges warrior who quickly makes inroads into Brielle's heart with his patience and gentleness to her and his complete loyalty and dedication to her and to his family. Brielle is strong, determined and courageous and complements Tomas really well.

While there is no mention of God in the story, there are several instances where the characters pray to Kurios. I'm assuming that in this fictitious world, Kurios is God. I wouldn't label this as a Christian book but it is a clean read.

*I received an eBook copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*



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Review: Murder at the Mikado

Murder at the Mikado by Julianna Deering

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Another good mystery book from Julianna Deering. No edge of your seat thriller but a good old-fashioned 1930's whodunit. Enough twists and turns to keep you guessing and the relationship of Drew and Madeline to add some romance. An enjoyable murder mystery.



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Review: Lizzy and Jane

Lizzy and Jane by Katherine Reay

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



A wonderful, touching, heart-rending, emotional story! Lizzy (Elizabeth) and Jane's mother died from cancer when Lizzie was still a teenager. Jane, being older, was already married and didn't come home. Lizzy handles the pain by leaving her home and dad behind and becoming the head chef of her own New York restaurant. Many years have passed and Elizabeth has lost her "magic" in her kitchen. When the owner (financial backer) of her restaurant brings in another chef, Elizabeth decides it's time to take some time off and go visit her Dad. After she gets there, her Dad talks her into visiting her sister, Jane, who has recently been diagnosed with cancer. Elizabeth surprises everyone—including herself—when she decides to stay in Seattle and work to prepare healthy, sustaining meals for Jane as she undergoes chemotherapy. She also meets Nick and his winsome son, Matt, who, like Elizabeth, are trying to heal from the wounds of the past. As Lizzy comes out of her self-imposed shell and regains her "magic", she and Jane slowly work to forgive each other and become a family again.

It did take me a little while to really get into this story but once I did, wow! The tug and pull on your emotions is strong! You'll shed a tear here and there as the story gets deep. And then you'll smile as you wipe a tear away as the sisters share a laughable moment. And Nick, as a hero, is definitely swoon worthy! :)

I really enjoyed the way the author used the world of culinary art in this story. At times I felt like I was watching a cooking show..lol. Since I enjoy cooking shows that's not a bad thing. And I also enjoyed the references to Jane Austen. I liked that it wasn't a "re-telling" of an Austen story but that Elizabeth pondered different lessons from several of the stories and used them to make her own life better.

*Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.*



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