4 Years Trapped in My Mind Palace by Johan Twiss

** I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. **

First Impression: A paralyzed kid and a Jewish jazz musician - this sounds like it will get interesting. Also what a beautiful cover!

Characters: Aaron and Solomon become unlikely friends, and explore the connections possible across generations. Getting to watch Aaron grow through Solomon's wisdom was endearing and left me with that warm fuzzy feeling.

World Building: An imaginary world within the mind of a paralyzed teen unfolds alongside the dementia flashbacks of an old jazz musician. I haven't read anything quite like it.

Writing Style: Easy reading for all levels. I was able to read this entire book in a couple of days, and didn't want to put it down.

What I Enjoyed: Historical fiction mixed with a coming of age story is something I don't think has been done before! I want more stories that spark wonder and imagination.

Deal Benders: A bit too simplistic sometimes with dialogue and character behavior. Sometimes the story felt more like a fable than a narrative. I also did not fully understand the ending, and who exactly Aaron was in Solomon's timeline.

Overall Rating: 4 stars because I really enjoyed this story.

For Fans Of: Tuesdays with Morrie

Aries by Lara Giesbers

*I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review*

First Impression: Such a magical cover and intriguing premise about supernatural gifts bestowed on mankind by God.

Characters: Connected families, their relationships, and their enemies are all unfolded in a tale that evokes Downton Abbey crossed with the Salem Witch Trials. The characters are simple in nature, yet rich in spirit. I found myself wishing for a simpler time when people had convictions.

World Building: I imagined scrolling castle hills and markets of time gone by. I appreciate the character driven story line as the scene.

Writing Style: Giesbers writes with ease and wistful dialog. Bible verses are quoted throughout in character conversations, which is great for anyone interested in real world application of biblical passages.

What I Enjoyed: The heartbreaking tension between grief and joy was displayed with innocence throughout Aries. I adored the relationships and social commentary warnings hauntingly appropriate for today's climate.

Deal Benders: Although the characters were drawn in a simpler time, I would have like to see more depth. Sometimes it felt they were a little one-dimensional, even if each in their own dimension.

Overall Rating: 4 stars because I appreciate well-done historical fiction and whimsy.

For Fans Of: Downton Abbey, any historical or christian fiction.

Fatherland by Robert Harris

This book was recommended and given to me by a professor, very thoughtful grad present!

Fatherland is a departure in alternate history. What would happen if the Nazi regime wasn't defeated, and Hitler was allowed to reign supreme in Europe?

First Impression: Alternate history is always intriguing, as it makes us think about the outcome of choices.

Characters: March is the main protagonist, with a lifetime of bad decisions leading up to the ultimate question: What is loyalty, and does it override human decency? I found many of the other characters forgettable, which is perhaps the intent.

World Building: The world doesn't seem much changed in ways of thinking, but I enjoyed imagining a world where JFK wasn't assassinated and other such idiosyncrasies. Picturing the state of the world was not difficult if Germany had won the war.

Writing Style: Very straight-forward with a bit of mystery.

What I Enjoyed: The idea of uncovering Nazi secrets in an alternate world where they win was very intriguing. I'm so thankful, without spoilers, that they were defeated.

Deal Benders: I found myself wanting to know more about the alternate reality and how different things were. I struggled to stay focused on the mystery and intrigue because quite frankly I became bored.

Overall Rating: I liked it, so three stars seems appropriate. If the focus on world building was a bit more focused on the alternate reality, it could have been better.

For Fans Of: The Man in the High Castle

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

First Impression: Interesting title and blurb. Written from a period in time we must never forget.

Characters: Liesel Meminger, foster orphan, ekes by emotionally in this heart-wrenching novel. Death personified watches the life of this little unfortunate, and shares her story with the reader. Wonderfully realized characters are so human, and stay with you long after the last page. Characters Rudy and Liesel’s friendship reminds me of a Dr. Seuss quote: ““I am weird, you are weird. Everyone in this world is weird. One day two people come together in mutual weirdness and fall in love.”

World Building: Munich, Nazi occupied Germany. Devastating details and wonderfully hopeful scraps of beauty are expertly described in “The Book Thief.” German phrases throughout the novel push a sense of realism. Author Markus Zusak captures the horror and disbelief of Nazi regime actions, showing that war is not men running at men – rather at Death. He touches on how hate is taught…contagious like a virus. Zusak also shows how in the midst of tragedy there the few who saved the many with bravery and kindness.

Writing Style: The narrator Death personified makes witty and snarky observations with humor and intelligence. Author Zusak has a keen understanding of human conditions and behavior.

What I Enjoyed: I liked that the narrator talks directly to the reader, and that the story gives away endings in pieces. A perfect quote ends Liesel’s journal: “I have hated the words and I have loved them, and I hope I have made them right.” Perfection. This is one of those novels that stays with you a very long time.

For Fans Of: Meet Joe Black, The Giver, Night by Elie Weisel, The Thirteenth Tale

Author’s Website:  http://zusakbooks.tumblr.com/

Goodreads Page:  https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19063.The_Book_Thief?from_search=true

Purchase on Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Book-Thief-Markus-Zusak/dp/0375842209/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1394812904&sr=1-1&keywords=the+book+thief

The Third Heaven by Donovan M. Neal

I received an electronic copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.

First Impression: I wanted to read this based of the Prologue sneak peek. It’s not too often someone writes a fictional account of the war between God and Lucifer.

Characters: Man is not the main focus of this story, but rather angels and the battle against their creator. Heaven ends up divided into those with El (God) or with Lucifer (Satan). All Biblical angels are part of “The Third Heaven”, and many that are not necessarily Biblical. I found the personalities tangible yet superhuman, which is appropriate as far as our knowledge of Elohim (angels) goes. Michael and Gabriel have starring roles for El’s cause.

Lucifer is a subject most Christians don’t want to talk about. I am of the mindset that we can’t really know how one can go so wrong without understanding what happened with the ultimate betrayer. Once God’s right-hand Prince of Angels, Lucifer’s story unwinds in these pages to the familiar persona of today. Again, author Donovan M. Neal portrays this as a work of fiction based on true events. I admittedly felt sympathy initially for the fallen angels, but the author does a brilliant job of explaining the ends to which they would dare defy their maker.

World Building: Heaven is tangible in Neal’s descriptions. The beauty of the universe and all the realms unfolds in King James’ style prose. I greatly appreciated the role of angels in creation and maintenance of El’s creations, as well as the tie-ins to actual historical events.

Writing Style: Written in the language of King James, Neal uses powerful descriptive symbolism, metaphor, and other creative devices to create a sense of awe. The downside was an overuse of commas and other missing punctuation – or improper use of words here and there.

What I Liked: After reading this fictional account, I feel more at peace with the old ‘whatever happened to Lucifer?’ question. I believe the author was given divine inspiration to share an account both interesting to read and grounded in truth. Although admittedly NOT factual, this story IS plausible.

Deal Benders: I don’t appreciate overuse of punctuation – especially commas. When inserted, in the middle, of random sentences, they make, the story, a bit choppy. Not a direct quote, but you get the picture. I think this could have used more editing, or maybe a second pair of eyes to find grammar and spelling mistakes.

Overall Rating: I give this book 4 stars because I really enjoyed the story despite the editing issues.

For Fans Of: Frank Peretti and Ted Dekker

AUTHOR'S PAGE: http://donovanmneal.wix.com/donovanmneal

GOODREADS PAGE: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7163462.Donovan_M_Neal

PURCHASE ON AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/The-Third-Heaven-Fallen-Series/dp/098948050X/ref=cm_rdp_product

The Sea and the Silence by Peter Cunningham

I received a copy of THE SEA AND THE SILENCE from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Ireland in the 40's - a time of civil unrest and changing ideas. Ismay (Iz) Seston, born into privilege, comes of age in the tumult. The story takes off in picturesque Monument, showcasing Iz and her family's journey from marriage through the twilight of their lives. In the second half of the novel, author Cunningham flashes back to how Iz grew up, and what circumstances shaped her life.

At first I wasn't sure what to think of the story, but the writing immediately sets itself apart. I appreciate the art that goes into such structure and forethought. The cover art completely complements the tone and theme of the story. Cunningham's characters are true and timeless - relatable yet mysterious.

I read this in two sittings, and was completely surprised by the ending. The structure again assists with the surprise. I felt real emotion, although you will have to find out for yourself if it was happy or sad! I'm not a fan of spoilers. Happy reading. :)

About the Author:  http://www.petercunninghambooks.com/

Book Information:  http://www.amazon.com/The-Sea-Silence-Peter-Cunningham/dp/1934848328

Goodreads Page:  http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7103305.Peter_Cunningham

Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers

I received a copy of REDEEMING LOVE from Waterbrook Maltnomah Publishing in exchange for an honest review.

A modern update to the classic Bible story of Hosea, REDEEMING LOVE tells the story of Sarah - a girl on the run from love. From a young age, Sarah is shown how love destroys. Taking on the name Angel, she walks through life in haze...because facing her past might destroy her.

Daughter of Jerusalem by Joan Wolf

I won a copy through the Goodreads' First reads program, compliments of Worth Publishing, in exchange for an unbiased review.

Jesus' closest earthly friend. The one who understood him better than anyone alive - was a woman whose sins marked her with a scarlet letter. DAUGHTER OF JERUSALEM is the historical fiction account of Mary of Magdala. The cover is entrancing and bright; the story within enchanting. I finished this book in just a few days (usually takes me a couple weeks with my schedule).

Although a work of fiction, Joan Wolf's writing stays true to the cultural times of Mary Magdalene. We follow her from youth through adulthood - from joys of love to pain of loss. I believe this is a fairly accurate portrayal of a woman out of her time. Written with excellent prose and understanding, this book is one of those gems I will tell all my friends to read.

More than halfway through the book we are introduced to Jesus of Nazareth. I enjoyed how the author stayed true to scripture when describing his interactions with people. His message was love, and it is enduring. This book reminds me of that - love and forgiveness. I will definitely be reading more of Wolf's work! Happy reading.

Though My Heart Is Torn by Joanne Bischof

I received a copy from Blogging for Books in exchange for an unbiased review.

In a world without cell phones, automobiles, or the Internet - THOUGH MY HEART IS TORN tells the story of a different sort of star-crossed lovers. Lonnie and Gideon have just started a family when Gideon's past comes back to haunt them. What ensues is a tale of broken hearts and redemption. Through God's grace and mustard seed faith, everyone involved can begin to heal. Will life ever return to normal?

I appreciate the characters written into these pages. Many times I fought back tears while sharing their struggles. The scenery and setting are true to times past, as well as the culture.

If you like cliffhanger endings, this ending is for you. The author hints at an ending, but you really have to draw your own conclusions as to how it all will end. Maybe the next book in this series will touch on what happened, but then again it could be a whole new story. Happy reading.

Author's website:  http://www.joannebischof.com/

Further info can be found at:  http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?work=219084

Read Chapter One!:  http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/blog/2013/01/09/sneak-peek-though-my-heart-is-torn-by-joanne-bischof/

Author's Bio:  http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/author-spotlight.php?authorid=157548

Requiem for Athens by David S. Alkek

I received a copy from the author in exchange for an unbiased review.

Have you ever wondered what it was like in the time of ancient Greece? Not just a bullet-point presentation of facts, but what possibly drove some of history's great events? David Alkek explores the time of Alexander the Great in such a fashion, giving an overview of the lives of great philosophers such as Aristotle; great artists like Phidias.

Although historical fiction, all events within REQUIEM FOR ATHENS seem plausible. I felt throughout that I was watching through a crack in time - witnessing events as a carefree observer. I enjoyed that Alkek didn't develop the characters too heavily, because they are not made-up figures. Each man and woman's character speaks for itself, through triumph and tragedy. REQUIEM reads easily enough, and I enjoyed the following of different characters' lives.

Studies of Greek and Macedonian customs, politics, and morals are delved into as part of the storyline. There are a few 'graphic' scenes regarding how women dressed and their roles in society, so this is not a book intended for children. I could have done without those descriptions, but they are easily skipped over if you wish.

Overall, I would read more historical fiction from this author, as he seems to do his homework. I only wish history books were this interesting! Happy reading.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Jane Austen's classic novel brings us back to a time when manners and position ruled more than any aspiration. When women were better seen and not heard, when titles and status covered all shortcomings - this is the world of Pride and Prejudice.

"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife." -This opening line sets the stage for a comic study of romance in the time of nobility; a time when a future meant catching the right man.

Mr. and Mrs. Bennet have given life to five daughters, no sons. In order for the family to sustain, one or all of the girls must marry well. With some less-than-favorable family ties, however, their family reputation makes for difficult arrangements. When rich, good-looking, and high-status men Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy are introduced to the Bennet family...you can be sure the chase is on.

However, the two eldest Bennet girls do not deign to chase after men. Much to their mother's dismay, Jane and Elizabeth care more for adventure and family than status. Mr. Darcy on the other hand, comes across as snobbish and condescending. Can first impressions give way over time to find what lies beneath social decorum?

Always a fan of Austen, it's difficult to put into words why I love her works. As a child, I saw a movie adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, but had no idea what brilliant writing lay behind it. I fell in love with the characters, the times, and the comedy.

As an adult, I've read through this book many times, always finding something new to cherish. Austen had a gift for character and relationship development, and I only wish there were authors like her today. The only thing that comes close is the PBS show, DOWNTON ABBEY.
Happy reading.

The Moon of Innocence by Uke Jackson

I won a copy through the Goodreads' Firstreads program.

Star-crossed lovers are nothing new, but Uke Jackson does a decent job of freshening things up a bit. In 1960's Catalonia, the reader is taken to a time of family and simplicity. Under the dictatorship of both government and elders, Maria and Cesar find ways to be together.

This book is easy to read with a twist about 3/4 through. It's not my typical choice read, but definitely worth a gander.