Rebel Book Reviews

The Promise Bride by Gina Welborn/Becca Whitham "Determined to save her father and siblings form a crumbling Chicago tenement, Emilia Stanek becomes the long-distance bride of a Montana rancher. But when she arrives in Helena, a rugged lawman shatters her plans with the news that her husband id dead--and deeply in debt. County sheriff Mac McCall can't afford to be distracted by the pretty young widow, not with scandalous secrets emerging as he investigates his friend's suspicious death. Mac's gruff order that she leave town at once only spurs Emilia's resolve to take ownership of her late husband's ranch and face his debtors. But as her defenses soften, Emilia begins to accept Mac's help, feel compassion for his own wounded heart--and learns that trust means taking a leap of faith...." A booming frontier town, a mail-order proxy marriage gone awry, a sheriff, and danger.... I expected a historical romance. Instead I read a histor...

The Reluctant Guardian by Susanne Dietze (Love Inspired 2017) Years ago, before I learned about Christian fiction novels, I was a fan of Julie Garwood and her ilk. Those books were the only historical romances that I cared to read, especially when they hosted a Scottish character. Now that I have matured and moved away to more wholesome and rewarding books, I have also kept an eye out for a story that reminded me of those books. Since historical romance isn't my preferred genre, I am a harsher critique compared to many romance readers out there. So it was a delightful surprise to pick up Susanne Dietze's book, The Reluctant Guardian . The story of Gemma and Tavin was complex, and yet simple. The story was multilayered, and yet straightforward. As you can see the plot and romance created an unique juxtaposition. This was far behind what I thought it would be and I found myself reading it for a second time to ensure that I didn't miss anything. The book...

At First Glance by Susan L. Tuttle (Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas 2018) Book Blurb: Estate planner Penny Thornton loves dusting off items others gloss over, especially since she relates to feeling tossed aside for the "bright and shiny . When her younger sister's approaching wedding launches Penny back into the throes of her dysfunctional family, she decides to use the festivities to close the gap in their relationships even if it means appeasing them and finally losing the few pounds they've hounded her about for years. But she doesn't expect to meet two very different men in the process. East Fisher, the personal trainer who personifies everything she believes she could never attain, and Jonah Black, a man who reminds her so much of herself. Both men are more than they appear at first glance, and both seem interested in her romantically. As Penny uncovers their hidden layers, she discovers when it comes to love and matters of the heart, she...

God's Name is a Tower by LeAnne Blackmore (Ambassador International 2019) "You are my strong tower--" This line from the book resonates. With its whimsical illustrations, the book captures the essence of that statement. A child's faith is innocent and our faith should be like that, too. Each page affirms the truth of the Bible and of Jesus. It is a wonderful book that will build up a child's confidence and strength. Little truths about blessings, how Jesus sees us, the power of His word, and so on are brought to the young reader as a beautifully written rhyme. One unique addition, which I haven't seen in any other book, is the added Scripture at the bottom of the page. It relates to the story and gives even more depth to the truth taught. Of course the best part was saved for last: "For You are my Comforter,  You are my Guide,  To You I will run-- I'll find shelter inside." This may be written for ch...

A Donkey's Little Tale by  R. Mitchell Scott (Ambassador International 2014) A lot of Nativity stories are rehashes of the same thing. What I found unique about A Donkey's Little Tale was that even though the nativity story had been told through an animal's point of view before, this tale had a fresh perspective. The story flowed off the tongue quite well. The cadence is sure to delight the little reader. I adored the simple illustrations. Almost a Precious Moments vibe to it, the elegance and cuteness is something that will keep little ones interested as the story of Christ's birth is read. Such a cute book!

The Rejected Princess by Katie Clark (Pelican Book Group 2018) Arranged marriages, sacrifices, truths, and a long-lost heir collide in this Young Adult novel that has a deep faith and morality thread woven into its tapestry of words that it becomes a natural part of the book without destroying the fantastical world which is part medieval, part steampunk, part early 19th century eras. Roanna of Chester's Wake becomes betrothed to a prince of Dawson's Edge, even though her heart lies with Prince Benjamin of Lox. But the heart cannot decide her fate. Peace means more than love... Such is the life of a princess, but Roanna discovers a hidden secret about her, her family, and the three kingdoms. With Benjamin's help, they have to discover the truth and face horrible practices in order to protect everyone within the kingdom. Katie Clark has a true talent writing for young adults. Just enough description to keep it interesting and yet dialed back enough to k...

Beast of Stratton by  Renee Blare (Prism Book Group 2015) A true romance written with overtones of Beauty and the Beast. When I say 'true romance', I am meaning that this book is reminiscent of the older stories from the 80s and 90s. The love story of the Harlequin romances, but the cleanliness of the Love Inspired line combined with Renee Blare's unique writing style gives a pure, romantical tale that also portrays an accurate insight into PTSD. Fast-paced and heart thumping, the action flows from one scene to another. If I had to find one flaw that stood out, it is that the book could be longer, have a little more description and scenes added, and the transitions from one action to another smoothed into narrative that's less jarring at some points with the story. Otherwise, when a reader opens the book they fall immediately into the story and action. As they read, the story unfolds bit by bit. There are no unnecessary backstories thrown in...

Lunch Notes to Our Children by Nicole M. Hewitt, PhD (Crosslink Publishing 2018) The description states: "Daily Spiritual Food for our kids' Hearts, minds, & souls". While the book gave sound advice and encouragement I did find it tedious. It doesn't pertain much to homeschool children but for those in public and private institutions who face the fallen world day in, day out these chapters are helpful and has a good guidance to lead them in more godly ways. There were a few things I disliked about the book that interfered with the reading: 1: the "lunch notes" at the beginning of each chapter used a hard to read font 2: the "lunch notes" failed to capitalize God, Jesus, and Lord 3: there were 12 Bible translations used which meant I could not follow along in the Bible because some translations are quite different from others On a positive note, cut-outs are available to use as lunch box inserts for children....