Tag Archives: book-reviews

The Women of Oak Ridge by Michelle Shocklee – A Real Gem, Interesting Story and Well-Developed Characters

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I absolutely loved reading The Women of Oak Ridge by Michelle Shocklee!  This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I look forward to reading more of her novels.

The Women of Oak Ridge tells the story of two women.  Maebelle Willett, as a young woman in 1944, left her small town in Kentucky and went to work in Oak Ridge, Tennessee to help support her family.  The town was new, the work went on around the clock, the buildings were massive, and the mission was secret.  In 1979, Laurel Willett, Maebelle’s niece, goes to visit her aunt whom she had not seen in many years.  After learning about the secret work that went on in Oak Ridge, to develop the atomic bomb, Laurel was interested in talking to the people that lived and worked there.  She wanted to know what their experience was like and their feelings about the work they did that helped end the war. 

Laurel is hopeful her Aunt Maebelle will want to share about her experiences.  But she is surprised to find her aunt refuses to talk about that time in her life.  She has built a good life for herself and is a part of her community.  But talking about her work during WWII is off-limits.  Thankfully, some of Maebelle’s friends are happy to share about their time working there and Laurel has access to historical records to help with her research for her dissertation. 

This book was well written.  The storyline and characters were exceptionally well developed.  The main characters were very likable, even when they made unwise choices, it was part of the storyline, not to put the characters in peril.  I liked how the story came full circle and we got to see how Maebelle finally came to terms with what she experienced and decisions she made. 

As a Christian, I greatly appreciate that the Gospel message was included in the story.  The main characters were believers.  Though one of them had lived with secrets that imprisoned her with guilt for years, there came a time for her to confront her sin and repent.  Would she have the courage to do that or would she choose to keep the past hidden?  But at what cost? 

The Women of Oak Ridge is a gem.  From the storyline, to the characters, and the history, the story was well written.  It was made even more beautiful by the friendships, caring family relationships, and faith interwoven into their lives. 

One other element I appreciated in this book was how women were portrayed.  Laurel is a doctoral student and has worked hard to achieve her goal.  But her dad encourages her to be open to what God may have for her life beyond her career ambitions.  That’s a rare thing in books by Christian authors these days.  Instead of the story being about a tough, self-sufficient, career focus woman, this was a story about women who want a full life. 

I highly recommend The Women of Oak Ridge by Michelle Shocklee.  It is an interesting and beautiful story and well written.

I would like to thank Tyndale House Publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of The Women of Oak Ridge by Michelle Shocklee.  I was under no obligation to give a favorable review. 

The Codebreaker’s Daughter by Amy Lynn Green – Mystery, Intrigue, and Relationships

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The Codebreaker’s Daughter is the first book I’ve read by author Amy Lynn Green.  I wanted to read it because I enjoy World War II historical novels, along with mystery and intrigue. 

The Codebreaker’s Daughter tells the story of Lillian Kendall and her daughter Dinah Kendall, and takes place in 1917 during the Great War and 1944 during World War II.  It’s a story about mothers and daughters and how they impact and influence each other’s lives.  It’s about trying to overcome difficult circumstances and live a good, decent, and meaningful live.  It’s about two ordinary women, living in extraordinary and critical times for our Country and the world.  It’s about doing important work and striving to do it well.  It’s about marriage and caring for and being there for your spouse and family.  It’s about lifelong friendships that endure over many seasons.  It’s about making choices and experiencing the consequences, both good and bad.

The book was different than I expected.  Yes, it takes place in WWI and WWII and involves codebreaking, espionage, and helping with the war effort.  But underlying it all are the relationships and lives of the characters as the grow and change over the years.

My favorite character was Roger Kendall, the husband of Lillian.  He was the steady and loving husband and father that undergirded and supported his wife and daughter.  I enjoyed the friendships Lillian had with Elizebeth and Margot. 

The Codebreaker’s Daughter is a slow-paced novel.  While it does have mystery and intrigue, the main-focus is the characters and their stories.  About twenty percent into the storyline my interest picked up more as the story focused on the work the women were doing to help in the war effort. 

While the story unraveled slowly, there were some real gems in the book.  Thoughts and insights from the characters that were thought-provoking and meaningful. 

If you like World Word II historical fiction, mystery, intrigue, relationships, and stories that focus on the characters behind the historical backdrop, you may want to read Amy Lynn Green’s newest novel The Codebreaker’s Daughter.  I look forward to reading more of this author’s work in the future. 

I would like to thank Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of The Codebreaker’s Daughter by Amy Lynn Green.  I was under no obligation to give a favorable review. 

The Peacemaker by Wanda E Brunstetter – Mystery, Relationships, Romance, Amish Fiction

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The Peacemaker by Wanda E Brunstetter is the second book in the Mifflin County Mystery series.  The first book in the series, The Protector, introduced readers to many of the characters featured in this second book.

Ada Detweiler was best friends with Rosa Petersheim who disappeared over a year ago.  No one has seen or heard from Rosa since the night she went missing.  Rosa’s disappearance continues to weigh heavy on the Petersheim family and friends.  Out of necessity people have tried to go on with their lives, but still have hope that Rosa may return or they will finally get answers.

Ephraim Peight was Rosa’s boyfriend and he was the last person to see Rosa alive.  Though there is no evidence, some people still suspect Ephraim of foul play.  When Ephraim is asked to go stay with his grandmother and help her, he is reluctant to leave.  Trying to make the best of the situation, he hopes that he will have a fresh start in a town where nobody knows him. 

When Lewis Peight has a heart attack, Ephraim returns to town to help with this father’s business.  During that time Ada and Ephraim start seeing each other as friends.  Ada’s had feeling for Ephraim for quite a while, but would it be right for her to have a relationship with her missing friend’s boyfriend?

The Petersheim’s story continues and we see the impact Rosa’s disappearance has had on their family. 

Faith is a part of this story.  I like how faith was woven into the characters everyday lives.  Most of the characters in the book were likeable.  Not only are the main characters are featured, but also members of the families.  Young, old and in between.  Reading this book, you get a sense of what the community is like.  I appreciate being able to read a clean novel. 

I hope that in the next book of the Mifflin County Mystery series readers will find out what happened to Rosa.

I enjoyed reading The Peacemaker.  The book is set at a slower pace and is more about developing the characters as opposed to an action novel.  This works as a standalone novel, but you might benefit if you read the first novel, The Protector.  If you like Amish fiction, mysteries, or romance novels I recommend The Peacemaker by Wanda E Brunstetter. 

I would like to thank Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of The Peacemaker by Wanda E Brunstetter.  I was under no obligation to give a favorable review.  The Peacemaker will be released on March 1, 2025.

The House of Cross by James Patterson – Action-packed Thriller

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The House of Cross by James Patteson is the first book that I have read by this author.  I did not know what to expect, but it really lived up to its description, An Alex Cross Thriller. 

Following the election, the people in Washington, D.C. are getting ready for the Inauguration of the President-Elect Jackie Johnson.  After the murder of three prospective judicial candidates for the Supreme Court, law enforcement is on high alert.  Security of the existing Supreme Court Justices is of grave concern.  Who is murdering these people and for what purpose?  Could it be the work of Maestro?  Time to call in the finest FBI investigators and consultant Alex Cross. 

Alex Cross will be working on this case with his wife Bree Stone and friend John Sampson.  They will be traveling across the country and into Canada to pursue their suspects.  Will they be able find and stop them on time? 

The House of Cross is filled with non-stop action from beginning to end.  Alex’s family and friendships were my favorite part.  I especially like his grandmother Nana Mama.  Alex is a family man and good friend.  Another character that I liked was Canadian Mounted Police officer Molly Fagan.  She is the kind of gal you want by your side when trouble hits.  She is prepared and ready for a fight. 

The House of Cross is an action pack thriller.  While action takes up most of the story, there is also some character and relationship development.  I liked the characters.  The plot did stretch the imagination, but I liked the story.  

There is some profanity in the book, less than I expect.  Also, violence due to the nature of the story.  Thankfully, the author did not go into detail on the violence that movies often show. 

If you like an action-packed thriller and intrigue, I recommend The House of Cross by James Patterson.  It will keep you on the edge of your seat until you get to the last page. 

I would like to thank publisher Little, Brown and Company and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of The House of Cross by James Patterson.  I was under no obligation to give a favorable review. 

With All Her Heart by Kelly Irvin – Likeable, Thoughtful Characters

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Kelly Irvin’s newest novel With All Her Heart – is the third book in the Amish Calling series.  I enjoy Kelly’s Amish themed books and looked forward reading this story.

With All Her Heart is a little different from most of the author’s other novels.  In the introduction the author mentions that Amish communities may have a higher rate of disabilities or diseases because of marriage within their community and the limited gene pool.  She also mentioned the love and acceptance the Amish have for their children, family, friends, and members of their community. 

The main character in this book is Bonnie Yoder who has a disability called spinal muscular atrophy.  Bonnie is co-owner of a shop with two of her friends who are also disabled.  Bonnie is smart, beautiful, hardworking, and wants to be independent as possible.  Bonnie would love to be married and have children.  But she is resolved to remain single and not be a burden on others because of her declining health. 

Thankfully, Bonnie has the love and support from her mother, Jocelyn Yoder.  Jocelyn husband Marlin died two years ago, but he is still a part of her life. 

But God is at work and may bring the unexpected into their lives.  Like Elijah Miller a quiet and shy man that Bonnie had gone to school with.  Or Jocelyn’s brother Uriah bringing his friend Theo over to see what things need work, repairs, or maintenance on Jocelyn’s property. 

I enjoyed reading this book and the characters were very likable.  I especially enjoyed Jocelyn, she was loving, caring, supportive and honest in dealing with her grief.  Theo was a refreshing character, honest and open.  I also liked Elijah.  Though he was shy, he learned to work through that which is hard, and to fight for what he wanted. 

It was eye opening to think of how challenging it would be to have a disability and live life without the modern-day conveniences that can make everyday tasks a little easier. 

I enjoyed reading With All Her Heart by Kelly Irvin and recommend it.  If you enjoy Amish themed novels, or a little romance, or Kelly Irvin’s novels be sure to get her newest book which will be released on January 28, 2025. 

I would like to thank Zondervan Fiction and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of With All Her Heart by Kelly Irvin.  I was under no obligation to give a favorable review. 

Over the Edge by Irene Hannon – Filled with Mystery and Suspense

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Over the Edge is Irene Hannon’s second book in the Undaunted Courage series.

Lindsey Barnes recently moved St. Louis.  She made the move following traumatic incident that she desperately wants to put behind her.  Her business as a person chef is doing good.  But a chef without her knives is not going to be very productive.  So, Lindsey makes plans to stop at the home where she left her equipment. 

The homeowner is not there, only a construction worker is in another area.  Lindsey spots her knife roll on the kitchen counter.  As she come around the island, she encounters a man dead on the floor surrounded by blood.  Before she can react, she hears someone in the guest bathroom and she quickly hides under the island countertop.  Soon after the suspect leaves, Lindsey calls 911.  Another nightmare has begun.  Even though she is the only witness, Lindsey does not want to go through this again!

I liked the mystery and suspense in the book, it kept me guessing right up to the end.  Most of all, I liked the characters.  Especially Detective Jack Tucker and the relationship he had with his sisters Bri and Cara, they are a very caring and closeknit family.  Bri was featured in the first book of the series, Into the Fire.  I appreciated how Jack and Lindsey worked through issues, and opened-up with one another.  Jack was willing to investigate Lindsey’s claims that someone was might be targeting her because she was the only witness.  I appreciated that the novel was clean and faith was included in the storyline. 

One of the things that did not make a lot sense was Lindsey repeatedly talking to her friends about the developments in the case.  Police standard procedure is to caution the witness to not speak about the case with anyone.  When a character does something that does not make sense, it seems like it was included to add an element of danger. 

If you like a good whodunnit, filled with mystery and suspense with a little romance, you may want to read Irene Hannon’s newest book Over the Edge. 

I would like to thank Revell Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read Over the Edge by Irene Hannon!  I was provided a complimentary copy of the eBook, but was under no obligation to give a favorable review. 

Betrayal at Blackthorn Park by Julia Kelly – Intrigue and Mystery During WWII

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If you enjoy a good story with mystery and intrigue, Betrayal at Blackthorn Park by Julia Kelly may be the book for you.  This is the second book in the Evelyne Redfern Mystery series.

Evelyne Redfern completed her training at the finishing school for the Special Investigations Unit.  She has been summoned to headquarters to receive her first assignment.  On her way, Evelyne encounters David Pool whom she had previously worked with.  Evelyne is assigned to investigate an anonymous report that things have gone missing at Blackthorn Park, a facility that develops weapons.  David has also been assigned.  This time he will be Evelyne’s handler and not a field agent. 

Under the cover of night, Evelyne makes her way through the grounds to the manor house.  After picking the lock Evelyne hears a gunshot.  She dashes up the stairs and enters Sir Nigel’s office and finds the man dead of what appears to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.  Or is it?  Is it connected to the report of missing supplies?

I love reading historical fiction, especially from the timeframe of WWII.  Betrayal at Blackthorn Park was filled with mystery and intrigue. 

I enjoyed reading this book because of the main characters Evelyne and David.  Both characters were very likable and had an interesting relationship.  There was some attraction between the two.  But they were both professional and respected one another.  The author did a good job in describing the scenes and characters so the reader can visualize them.  There were lot of characters and many twists and turns.  I was trying to guess whodunit based on the evidence and possible suspects.  The book kept me guessing to the end. 

I really enjoyed reading Betrayal at Blackthorn Park by Julia Kelly and recommend it.  This was the second book in the Evelyne Redfern Mystery series, but it worked well as a standalone book.  Now I want to go back and read the first book in the series, A Traitor in Whitehall, and look forward to reading more of Julia Kelly’s books.  If you like historical fiction, mysteries, intrigue, and WWII history, be sure to read this book. 

I would like to thank St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of Betrayal at Blackthorn Park by Julia Kelly.  I was under no obligation to give a favorable review.