The Mark of the King by Jocelyn Green

This is the first Jocelyn Green novel that I have read, and it won't be the last. Green writes a very moving story, filled with sadness, humor, mystery, love, and grace. 
Julianne Chevalier has lost much in life, and when her time as a midwife is cut short, she again wrestles with despair and hopelessness. Branded by the king and sent to a new colony, she is forced into a marriage she doesn't want, and tasked with helping care for new mothers and soldiers in Louisiana. This all comes with a price, though she doesn't know it yet, and despite her frustration with her status in the colony, she does her job to the best of her ability.

Green's writing is at times gritty, and more than once I shuddered at her vivid descriptions, but it is necessary to the novel. Without experiencing the pain and suffering Julianne and others go through, it's hard to become attached to the story or its characters. The backdrop for the story is, at times, as bleak as Julianne's life, but at other times, it comes alive through Green's pen. 

Multiple characters are introduced throughout the novel. At times, it was difficult to remember who belonged to whom; however, as the story progressed, I was able to keep better track of this. Despite how other novels set in this time period may portray women, Julianne is not a weakling. She faces some incredibly horrifying situations (that I felt to my core), but each time she experiences a measure of grace. She even pays it forward, though at times she truly struggled. I appreciated the "humanness" of her character. and so many others.  

Overall, I think this book is a must-read for fans of Christian and historical fiction, romance, and mystery. You won't be disappointed.

The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden

I was given the opportunity to read this from NetGalley. The following review is my honest opinion.

I am not sure I can use the correct words to describe "The Bear and the Nightingale." I am a huge Russian history nerd, so the book and its premise immediately appealed to me. I was familiar with the endearments and other terminology in the book that might throw the casual reader for a loop, but this style of writing only added to my enjoyment. In short, the story was magical. The backstory of Marina and Dunya might seem like fluff, but it was a necessary component of the novel. Getting to watch Vasya as she grows and learns helped me become more attached to her character, and I appreciated the relationships she had with her family. It is not the typical family dynamic, however, there is no denying the love they have for each other. 

Russian lore is fascinating to me, and I felt like Arden did the culture justice. I understood the priest's need to "redeem" the "heathens," but I also understood the villagers' deep longing to remain true to traditions by worshipping gods of hearth and home. I'll be honest, I had to look a few things up during my reading, and I encourage others to do so as well. 

If I could change one thing about the story it would be that I wanted more Vasya and Morozko. I am hoping for a sequel!

In the Shadow of Denali by Tracie Peterson and Kimberly Woodhouse

I was given the opportunity to read this book before its release. The review is my honest opinion.

 I love Tracie Peterson's novels, so I was very excited to read this collaboration with Kimberly Woodhouse. The setting is one of my favorites: the Alaskan frontier. Peterson and Woodhouse stuck true to the traditional Christian historical fiction storyline in this book. A girl of marriageable age lives in the wilderness. A city boy comes to town and finds that the girl is lovely, and so is her home. He embarks on a dangerous mission, leaving feelings unresolved and unspoken. If you are looking for a feel-good, clean, light-hearted novel, this is it. I don't write this to be a negative review. I enjoyed the story, but it isn't for someone looking to branch out in their reading.

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The Captive Heart by Michelle Griep

Barbour Publishing gave me the opportunity to read this book after its release, and even though I read it quite quickly, I had to wait a few days before posting my review. The first reason for this is because I felt the book was too good for the typical stock photo, and I wanted to showcase the novel, so I ordered it from Amazon. The second reason is because I was deeply invested in the story, and I needed time to process, think, and draft before a deserving review could be written.

I enjoy Christian fiction mainly because it is clean. In the past, authors tended to associate clean with cheesiness, rainbows, and happiness for all, but lately, I am reading more and more Christian fiction that deals with deeper topics. I'll admit, the premise for Griep's book has been used before, however, these characters and setting are much more complex and interesting than other novels like this. Griep doesn't just skim the surface. I felt Samuel's anger, Eleanor's insecurities, and laughed at the antics of Biz and Grace.

Too many times, I find that Christian fiction feels rushed. Griep has written a wonderfully moving novel that is neither rushed nor contrived. I appreciate that her characters did not experience "insta-love," but rather grew to know each other while the reader got to know them. Biblically, the novel is sound, and readers who have had struggles with their faith will find a kindred spirit in Eleanor.

My rating is 5 of 5 stars. I highly recommend this book!

The Thing Lou Couldn't Do by Ashley Spires

"She'll be back. Maybe even tomorrow. After all, Lou loves an adventure."

LOVE this. The author gets many things right in this sweet story. First: the excuses. How many kids to we know that come up with off-the-wall reasons as to why they can't accomplish something? Second: the illustrations.  These illustrations are child-friendly and completely fit the story. They are playful, colorful, and just plain fun. Third: the ending. I don't want to spoil it for anyone, so I won't give too many details, but let me just tell you, IT IS PERFECT. I highly recommend this to parents, teachers, librarians, and kids (whether in age or in heart) all over.

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King of Mist by Jordan Rivet

King of Mist by Jordan Rivet
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This second installment of the series did not disappoint. We know Dara is strong from reading the first story, but in this novel, her character is developed thoroughly. She has found a purpose apart from dueling, and we see her struggle with duty and matters of the heart.

Siv also has growth in this book, and we see him mature from an impulsive, somewhat obnoxious character, into a young man who is doing his best to be kingly. I believe I liked his portrayal more in this story than the first, mainly because there is some angst when Siv realizes his heart and head do not agree on the right course of action.

I enjoyed the first novel, however, there is a more definite sense of urgency and danger in this book that sets it apart from its predecessor. The villains have a name, face, and motive in "King of Mist," making it highly addictive. I recommend this series to fans of GoT, Eragon, and Percy Jackson.



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Duel of Fire by Jordan Rivet

Duel of Fire by Jordan Rivet
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4.5 STARS
I want to do this novel justice in my review, because I think it is a wonderful story. It's unique not only in its setting, but in the character development as well.

Dara Ruminor has no magic. She is a trained female duelist, which we come to understand isn't exactly rare; however, Dara is better than the women and some men in this sport. She has honed her skills because of dedication to her passion, against the wishes of her parents. Dara has an iffy relationship with her mom and dad, and even though she wishes to please them, she can't imagine a life where she isn't doing what she loves.

The perimeter characters are also fairly well-developed. Prince Siv is quite likable in that he has more than just good looks. He is witty, caring, and a little sneaky, and the big brother to two of the most diverse princesses I have read about lately. Sola has a head for politics, and Selivia is your typical young teen: giddy, boy-crazy, and lots of fun.

The plot is also well-developed. Fire magic isn't new to the fantasy world, but Rivet deviates from the norm, and if I told you how, it would RUIN the story. So, you're just going to have to read the book! Best part is that this novel and its sequel are FREE on Kindle Unlimited!!! If you aren't a subscriber to Kindle Unlimited, they are only $3.99. It's well worth that, trust me! :)

The only reason I dropped my review from 5 stars to 4.5 is that I didn't quite understand some of the figurative language. There were similes I had difficulty with, only because I didn't have enough of a backstory to base them on. This in no way affected my reading the book, it just is something the author may need to consider in her next novels.



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The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson

The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a four-star book for me for only one reason: it took me a while to become invested. I have a bad habit of reading multiple reviews prior to the book, and several "so-so" reviews often hinder me from fully appreciating a entire body of work.

I read where others said this was a religious book, and that they weren't comfortable recommending it because of the God factor. I think it definitely is religious, relative to the book itself. The characters are deeply spiritual, but I never once felt "preached at" or encouraged to pick up my Bible. The God I serve doesn't put stones in people's navels, so I was certainly able to distinguish the line between fantasy and reality.

The book itself was an enjoyable read, and the characters were likable. I loved Alina, and how Carson develops and matures her character. She struggles with weight, trust, naivete, and general teenage girl issues. The writing never felt contrived or shallow.

Other reviews I read complained because Alina loses weight before the end of the story, and that others don't see her beauty until she is skinny. I disagree wholeheartedly. I am the reader, the most important person to the story, correct? I adored Alina from the get-go, even if I didn't understand the premise. Also, Hector and Humberto see Alina's worth well before she experiences her weight loss, and also, I'd like to point out, that Alina is never truly thin! She talks many times about extra skin and how she will never be dainty or delicate. What I gathered from my reading was that Alina became healthy. Her muscles grew strong, her appetite changed, and she also developed a firmer inner resolve.

I highly recommend this book.

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Rebel of the Sands by Alwyn Hamilton

Rebel of the Sands by Alwyn Hamilton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was a slow start, and despite the pretty cover, I was hesitant to continue reading it after scanning through some reviews. I decided to push through, and I am so glad I did!

As I said before...SLOW beginning. The setting was different than your normal YA novel, and other than a magic horse, I didn't really see any hint of the fantasy genre. I could see the romantic setup coming from a mile away, but I didn't mind it. The characters were likeable, and the world-building is strong.

If you like a character that toes the line of being a villain, this book is definitely for you. Hamilton does a great job depicting her protagonists, but an even better job making one of her "bad" guys relatable.

Overall, I thought this was an enjoyable read. Just be prepared to sift through a few chapters before being hooked.

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The Bird and The Sword by Amy Harmon

The Bird and the Sword by Amy Harmon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am not sure I can adequately describe this book. It was magical, everything a YA fantasy novel should be. No wimpy heroines, actual relationships, and no cliche characters. EVERY person in this book mattered. Any more of a review might do this novel a disservice, and it will take away from whatever your thoughts are going into this. The Kindle version is well worth the $3.99, and I promise you will be like me, ordering the hardcover within minutes of finishing.

GO READ THIS BOOK!

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Finnikin of the Rock by Melina Marchetta

Finnikin of the Rock by Melina Marchetta
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Hmmmm......

I liked this book, but I didn't LOVE this book. There were parts of the story that just seemed off, in my opinion.

1) Where did they find Evanjalin? I know it was some sort of cloister of a goddess, but I guess it bothered me that Finnikin was SO against her coming along, and Sir Topher let it happen anyway, despite him usually following along with Finnikin's opinions.

2)Evanjalin didn't really annoy me, as I have read many others say, but she unnerved me. Her complete and total calm in the face of everything was unsettling. I wanted her to freak out just a bit.

3)Why is Froi even important in this story? He doesn't add ANYTHING, other than he tries to rape someone and they all end up loving him, because, "aw shucks, he's just an exile." WHAT?!? Did that not perturb anyone else? I imagine he will play a larger role in the second books, especially since it's named after him, but I just seriously didn't see the point of his character at all.

Despite those little nitpicky things above, I really did enjoy the story, and the majority of the characters. It's not an overused plot, and Marchetta keeps things interesting enough to make me wonder about picking up that second installment. I felt like maybe it was a tad too long (could have been wrapped up MUCH sooner), but there was a grieving process happening in Lumatere that I guess the author wanted the reader to feel a part of.



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The Queen of Attolia by Megan Whalen Turner

The Queen of Attolia by Megan Whalen Turner
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was not prepared to love the first book in this series, The Thief, as much as I did, so it was surprising that I could enjoy the second book even more.

Gen is just as likable in this second installment, if not maybe a little more so, especially after he has to come to terms with a loss. I think Attolia has much more depth than we imagined, as does Eddis, and I was tickled to see other characters return, even if just briefly.

Gen is human in this story. He grieves in the same way that you or might might, and he takes a long time to recover. We are given a glimpse into his relationship with his father as well. It's obvious that despite the nature of Gen's job for the queen, he is well loved by those who surround him.

Turner continues to provide stories within the story in TQOA. Much like our own fables and parables, each little tale about a god or goddess is a lesson for not only the characters, but for us, the readers. Another bonus: these are quick reads. Authors often get lost in their own stories, and I feel like the last few books I have read have been quite repetitive. Turner doesn't just give us a story, she hides meaning within each sentence, and this is done succinctly, so that I am never lost or bored.

If you are looking for something that has depth, but don't want to be bogged down, pick up this series. You won't regret it!

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The Thief by Megan Whalen Turner

The Thief by Megan Whalen Turner
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this book. I actually bought it last year for my 5th grade classroom, and then never picked it up again, until I read a review by Emily May. The story was quite engaging, and you can't help but like Eugenides.

I enjoyed most everything about this book. The folktales were excellent additions, sort of a story within a story, and while the author states that she didn't base her gods/goddesses on Greek and Roman mythology, there are several similarities. I came to respect the magus during my reading, and I was very glad that Gen could count him as a friend at the end of the book.

What didn't I like? Well, let's just say there's a bit of a twist at the end, and while I may have seen it coming, I didn't realize I wouldn't get to "watch" it happen.

Bottom line: read this book!

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Sunday Post

I have read numerous books on the effect of reading to your children. One of my favorites, Jim Trelease's "The Read-Aloud Handbook," lays out the facts plainly. Kids who are read to as children, become pre-teen readers, who turn into young adult readers, who turn into college grads and successful adults. Sure, there are exceptions to every rule, but the truth is clear: reading is better for everyone. I am constantly asking my friends to read books that I pick up, and most of the time, they agree with my picks. However, the majority of my friends don't enjoy reading. They've grown out of it, or were required to do it too many times in school, and it left a bad taste in their mouth. When did we lose the idea that reading is a pleasure? You don't see many teachers reading for fun anymore. We are trying to find read-alouds that have the most AR points, or teach a CCRS concept, or use the assigned vocabulary words. Who did this to us? Why have we forgotten the value of the most fundamental skill we can teach? Teachers, parents, aunts, uncles, and grandparents, I challenge you, when you set aside the allotted amount of time for your youngsters to read, pick up a book yourself. That small act will inspire numerous questions: "What are you reading?" "Where did you buy that book?" "What's that about?" "How long until you finish?" and on and on and on.

Looking for something good to read that is school appropriate? Ones you can tell the kids you read and answer questions without having to censor? (You would be surprised how many 7th graders told me their favorite book was 50 Shades of Gray. I cringe.) Here is a list of some of my tried-and-true favorites, books that even the most non-readery of my friends would tell you to pick up.

Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers
Hands down, this is the best love story in publication. This book weaves a Biblical story into a more modern period, and the result is flawless. Francine Rivers is one of my favorite authors because she writes truth. Some Christian authors are cheesy, but Rivers's books confront tough topics, and they delve into difficult situations. Although the book is long, you won't have trouble staying focused. This is a must-read for people of all faiths.




Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay
My grandfather is a WWII veteran, and I have always reading books set in this era. Author Tatiana de Rosnay switches between two viewpoints throughout the book: Sarah, whose family is rounded up during the little-known 1942 arrests of Jewish families in France; and Julia, a journalist researching this event. It's hard looking back at the past, especially those that hurt, but Rosnay wrote this book to make us think. If you are a fan of historical novels, this one should be on your list!

Flabbergasted by Ray Blackston
Laugh-out-loud funny. There's no other way to describe it. The book is the first of three, and while all are good reads, this one is my favorite. I love Jay, his outlook on life, descriptions of people, and sense of humor. This book is a great read for both men and women, and it's maybe a bit of a love story, but mostly it's good, clean, fun.

Ketchup is a Vegetable by Robin O'Bryant
I don't generally like non-fiction, but these small glimpses into the life of another mama and her kids were perfect. It's nice to know that you aren't the only one wondering if "you're doing it right," or if you are the only one scrambling to keep it all together. The author writes about her struggles with depression, but also the shenanigans of her girls and husband. It's not a cookie-cutter family, and neither is mine. I loved that I could pick it up and read a few pages if I needed a laugh, but not worry about losing momentum if I only had time to finish a chapter or two. Be sure to add this one to your list!



Want to know what I am reading right now or what I have recently finished? Check out my Goodreads shelf or my Pinterest board "Holly's 2016 Reads."

(None of the images used are my own. If you click on the book title, it will take you to the source for the image.)

Our Favorites

My twins LOVE to read. We go through multiple books a day, and they have some standards that we turn to frequently when nothing else seems to fit the mood.

Little Blue Truck

There are several things about this story that we love. Author Alice Schertle has chosen rhymes that easy for mom and dad to read, and easy for young ones to remember. My two know exactly which words belong on which page. The illustrations are bright and colorful, and the characters lend themselves to voice changes from the reader. When the dump truck comes along, we all read in tone that I assume a dump truck would have were he able to talk. There is also a little lesson for young and old alike: help can come from the most unlikely sources. More than anything else, this book is just plain fun.


Knuffle Bunny


When I was a little girl, I had a stuffed animal that I prized above any other toy. I slept with it through college, and when I got married, it sat on my shelf in my closet, waiting for another little set of arms to wrap it up. For that reason, this book is a favorite of mine. I can understand Trixie's horror when she discovers Knuffle Bunny is gone, and I also know the desperation of the parents who are trying to find her. My own two like the story line, but they love the illustrations the most. The mix of real photographs and drawings, coupled with the frustrated looks of all the characters, are sure to bring a smile to everyone's face. Knuffle Bunny, by Mo Willems, is a Caldecott Honor book.

A Visitor for Bear

In A Visitor for Bear, author Bonny Becker tells the sweet story of Bear and Mouse, two creatures seemingly at odds with each other. One of the reasons this book is a favorite is because of Bear. My kids have their "grouchy" moments, and Bear is definitely having his fair share in this story. In addition, this is another great book for changing your voice to suit the character. We laugh and giggle at Bear's deep grumble and Mouse's squeaky sound. The illustrations are another plus. Overall, I think the lure of this book is that even preschoolers can relate to the loneliness that Bear feels, and they also understand the effort Mouse puts forth to gain attention. This book is a Wanda Gag Read Aloud Honor Book.