Amee (amee821@hotmail.com)

Sabrina by Lori Wick

Rating: 5 Stars

This is the second book in the Big Sky Dreams series and I loved it! I think I even enjoyed it more than the first book. The characters were just so endearing and had me rooting for their happy ending at the start.

Amee (amee821@hotmail.com)

Plain Pursuit by Beth Wiseman

Rating: 5 Stars

Great sequel! At first I was hesitant that it wouldn't be as good as the first, but I was pleasantly surprised to find myself reading into the early hours. I am in high anticipation of the third book in the series released later this month!

Donna

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett

Rating: 5 Stars

I never got around to reading this one when I was a child. It's at least as wonderful reading it as an adult!

Michele R. Wright, Ph.D.

The African Book of Names by Askhari Hodari, Ph.D.

Rating: 5 Stars

As a native of Tuskegee, Alabama, I have long been fascinated with African history and culture. And throughout my life, I have had an array of friends and associates that proudly embraced their African roots in general and their African name(s) in particular. This is why I was ecstatic to discover Dr. Askhari Johnson Hodari’s uniquely crafted book featuring a priceless collection of over 5,000 familiar and unfamiliar names.

Most impressive is the way THE AFRICAN BOOK OF NAMES remarkably and ingeniously reflects the life, history, culture and spirit of Africa from all corners of the continent. I also love the way Dr. Hodari categorized her comprehensive list of authentic African names by roughly 200 diverse themes of life, mind, body and soul. And since I personally and spiritually strive to embody the “Fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22-23), I was overjoyed to see that the multitude of themes for African Names included: Love, Intimacy, and Affection; Joy and Happiness; Peace and Harmony; Gentleness; Goodness; Faith, Belief, and Spirituality; and Gentleness --- among many more.

Moreover, being a Success Expert, I was very delighted to see a section of African Names centered on Success and Achievement including Fuzu, which means “To succeed; win” and Wini which means “A successful person”. But whatever the personal, professional, spiritual, mental, emotional or sentimental theme you are searching for, you will no doubt find it in Hodari’s book of African Names. The icing on the cake is the included 200-year naming calendar. Since African names will likely become more prominent in American history (for reasons related to Barack Obama), this book is a “must have” centerpiece and a "must read" masterpiece.

Michele R. Wright, Ph.D.

Freedom By Any Means by Betty DeRamus

Rating: 5 Stars

FREEDOM BY ANY MEANS is an ingeniously crafted historical book BY ALL MEANS! I was more than intrigued to discover the other side of the story as it relates to African American history as I ventured into the world of the fifteen luminously untold stories uniquely documented by author Betty DeRamus.

I was instantly mesmerized with this book the moment I began reading the opening story of John Bowley, a skillful ship carpenter and freed slave, who daringly and cunningly showed up at a Maryland Slave auction in the mid-1800’s with nothing more than some bold guts and a clever plan in a successful attempt to secure the freedom of his wife Kessiah (the niece of Harriet Tubman – The “Moses of Her People”) and their two children who were all scheduled to be sold at auction to another slave-owner.

And I remained awestruck as I continued to read one untold historical event after another. And being a native of Tuskegee, Alabama, I was also intrigued with Tuskegee Institute’s founder Booker T. Washington’s description of the “grapevine telegram” – the invisible communication wire for slaves and freed blacks. Additionally, I was pleased to read an excerpt from a 1901 letter of Robert W. Taylor, financial secretary of Tuskegee Institute, to a newspaper editor concerning Harriet Tubman which reads, “She told me that when she found her mother unwilling to leave behind her feather bed tick, and her father his broad axe and other tools, she bundled up feather bed, broad axe, mother, father – all and landed them in Canada”.

This expertly compiled masterpiece of “untold” historical events brings a whole new but most tasteful depiction to the accounts of African American freedom and history. As opposed to viewing slaves as a people who secured freedom through fear and avoidance, you now can appreciate an enduring account of slaves as strong people with a large vision who strategically and cleverly devised an effective and commendable plan of action for freedom. This took not only gutsy creativity but brilliant implementation.

And likewise, Author Betty DeRamus displays both gutsy creativity and brilliant implementation in her compilation of these remarkably documented untold stories. These intriguing pearls of history of American slavery should become integrated into the American history teaching curriculum of every educational facility. Needless to say, as author of FREEDOM BY ANY MEANS, DeRamus continues her excellence in documenting tales of African American history that she commendably started in her first book, FORBIDDEN FRUIT.

Alison Alexander

Gods and Kings by Lynn Austin

Rating: 5 Stars

Lynn Austin is an excellent writer. This book brought to life several chapters of the Old Testament like 2Chronicles 28 and 29. When you read this book you cannot help but see and know and appreciate God's love, His forgiveness and His grace. As a believer, you realize how precious a gift you have in salvation. If you don't know God you will want to know Him as you see the sacrifices of the prophets and the people who stood up so that God's word can reach us. Thank you, Lynn, for helping to strengthen my faith, my prayer life and my bible study time all through your work.

Sandra F.

Polar Shift by Clive Cussler

Rating: 4 Stars

Clive Cussler is king of the thriller. I am never disappointed when I read one of his books. Kurt Austin has saved the world so many times.

Sandra F.

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith

Rating: 4 Stars

At first I thought this book was a waste of time, but it turned out to be a very funny adaptation of PRIDE AND PREJUDICE.

Shyeyes

Things Left Unspoken by Eva Marie Everson

Rating: 5 Stars

What a wonderful jaunt to the South! Jo-Lynn Hunter winds up in Cottonwood, Georgia because of a death in the family. She undertakes a renovation of a Victorian home that has been in her family for generations. Houses and people all have secrets, and some want none of them to get out. Strange incidents happen, and Jo-Lynn must find out what is truth and what is not. For someone who is in an unstable marriage, what a respite from tensions as home. Not only is she renovating a house, she is renovating herself. A very enjoyful story, well-written.

JaneAnn Railey

A SINGLE THREAD and A THREAD OF TRUTH by Marie Bostwick

Rating: 5 Stars

5 stars for first one --- I couldn't put it down. However, I just finished the second and didn't think I would ever get through it; such a let down after the first, just not the same. I read there is to be a third; now I would be scared to put my money into # 3..

drhodari

Freedom by Any Means by Betty DeRamus

Rating: 5 Stars

There are history books that spew facts. Then, there are history books that are written. With FREEDOM BY ANY MEANS, journalist Betty DeRamus has written a factual book about stories from the Underground Railroad with an authentic, friendly, relevant voice.

drhodari

Delicious Jamaica: Vegetarian Cuisine by Yvonne McCalla Sobers

Rating: 5 Stars

DELICIOUS JAMAICA: Vegetarian Cuisine by Yvonne McCalla Sobers is a flavorful feast of creativity. The recipes are not only rooted in Jamaican culture, but these recipes also speak to many ethnic and cultural groups that have influenced the development and preparation of Jamaican food. There are recipes with Tainos, African, Spanish, British, Indian, Chinese and Jewish vibrations.

Michelle A.

A Bride in the Bargain by Deeanne Gist

Rating: 5 Stars

Deeanne Gist has become one of my favorite Christian writers. Her books are always entertaining and romantic. The historical settings of each one are well researched and interesting. This book about a "mail order bride" is no exception.

Sarah

Green by Ted Dekker

Rating: 5 Stars

I haven't finished it yet, but almost.... Wow! How can Mr. Dekker keep this up! I've already read the rest of the Circle series, but this book is suppose to work as the beginning too. I'm starting to see how that could work! I dare you to read it!! =)

Linda H.

Never the Bride by Rene Gutteridge

Rating: 5 Stars

Laugh-out-loud funny, original, but also contains a message that will bless your heart.

Betty

Murder at Eagle Summit by Virginia Smith

Rating: 4 Stars

Good mystery with some excitement but pretty predictable ending.

Betty (bettysfiction@gmail.com)

The Veritas Conflict by Shaunti Feldhahn

Rating: 5 Stars

A real thriller that takes place on the Harvard campus.

Anita Sumrall

All Through the Night by Davis Bunn

Rating: 4 Stars

It took a couple of chapters for me to get into this book, but once it took off I was hooked!

Stephanie Elkins

Love and Respect by Emerson Eggerich

Rating: 5 Stars

This book really helps newly married couples understand the ways/actions of their partners. There are some examples in the book that hit home and help my husband and I better understand each other and the ways that we react to certain situations.

Linda H

Dark Pursuit by Brandilyn Collins

Rating: 5 Stars

I have enjoyed all of her books, but this was one of my favorites. She caught my interest from the first page and the suspense didn't let up. The ending was a total surprise. I loved it!!!

Linda

Big Sky Dreams Series by Lori Wick

Rating: 4 Stars

Great stories that keep you involved. Heartwarming, happy endings. Wonderful Christian messages of hope.

ShyEyes (dawnymae@hotmail.com)

Things Left Unspoken by Eva Marie Everson

Rating: 5 Stars

Story of a marriage at a turning point that leads one partner to go back to her roots and get involved in renovating an old Victorian house that has been home to her mother, aunt, and many more. She discovers not all is as it seems. I enjoyed this novel very much --- excellent characters, plot line, and descriptions to delight!

Shirely

Things Left Unspoken by Eva Marie Everson

Rating: 5 Stars

Loving this book!! I really can't wait to finish it!

Asha

The Crowning Glory of Calla Lily Ponder by Rebecca Wells

Rating: 5 Stars

You will laugh, get angry, feel sorry for some of the characters. But in the end, you'll love them all.

Margie

Promise Me by Harlan Coben

Rating: 4 Stars

Fast-paced thriller about a missing girl. The main character, Myron, has appeared in other books, so you learn a little more about him. Hard to put down!

Jo

Just Another Girl by Melody Carlson

Rating: 3 Stars

Good story of a young girl who is forced into responsibility that a normal teen does not face. However, the ending left me flat as things resolve in the end in an unrealistic way. The mom and dad face some of their responsiblities as adults in to pat of a way in the end.

Linda Wagner

The Justice Game by Randy Singer

Rating: 4 Stars

This was a wonderfully crafted story of suspense/mystery. The only thing you know is that the fans got to vote for the outcome. Otherwise, Randy kept you swinging from one episode to another on a major trial regarding gun violence and who was responsible for the death of an ITeam investigator. The writing was seamless, keeping you turning page after page. I will admit to a very surprising ending --- not how I voted.

Sherry Floyd

Lions of Judah Series by Gilbert Morris

Rating: 5 Stars

Makes Bible stories come alive!! Wonderful books.Morris is one of best Christian authors!

Brenda Rupp

Sooner or Later by Debbie Macomber

Rating: 4 Stars

I haven't finished reading her book but I got drawn in from the beginning. I am hoping the story goes as is expected.

Sandra Daniel

Dawn's Prelude by Tracie Peterson

Rating: 5 Stars

This book is absolutely awesome!
Lydia is widowed after 12 years to a cruel, abusive man. Her stepchildren intend to see her thrown out as soon as the will is read. She expects nothing from her husband, but a twist of fate leaves her stunned. She makes arrangements to leave immediately for Alaska to live with her aunt Zee. Soon after arriving, Lydia discovers that she is pregnant with her late husband's child and fears for their lives --- she knows her stepchildren are ruthless and will do anything to reclaim their inheritance.

Will Lydia have to turn away from her growing attraction to the handsome saw-mill owner?

Peggy

Matters of the Heart by Danielle Steel

Rating: 4 Stars

This is her 100th book and so far, one of the best. I am going to read A GOOD WOMAN next by the same author.

Jane Squires (jrs362@hotmail.com)

Illuminations of the Heart by Joyce DiPastena

Rating: 5 Stars

This was a book I did not think I would like, as I am not a big fan of Medieval times. But, I was drawn into this book and now I am ready to read more like this. It takes your breath away and keeps you holding your breath. You reach a certain spot where you drop everything and spend 3 hours reading to the end. You feel like you are in a cheering section at times, praying for the right person to win, and more.

Jane Squires (jrs362@hotmail.com)

A Texas Ranger's Family by Mae Nunn

Rating: 5 Stars

I reviewed this book for Mae and it is just coming out. All her books are the type you just cannot put down. I loved the way relationships in this book were rocky at times. She wrote this to help people realize to what Service people coming home wounded go through. I recommend this book highly and you will think more about how wounded soldiers have it.

Denise H Spencer (SpncChar@aol.com)

A Searching Heart by Janette Oke

Rating: 5 Stars

This is in the Prairie Legacy series and I just love these Godly romance books; can't get enough of them. They can teach you so much about yourself and touch your soul.

Pam Kellogg

Salty Like Blood by Harry Krauss

Rating: 5 Stars

This was difficult to read because of the subject matter (an abducted child) but very thought provoking. The issues of revenge and forgiveness were handled well.

Billie McHam

Take Two by Karen Kingsberry

Rating: 5 Stars

Great continuing series. I like it because it also includes some of the characters from the Redemption series.

Amee (amee821@hotmail.com)

A Passion Redeemed by Julie Lessman

Rating: 5 Stars

Charity isn't the easiest to like and does some pretty despicable things. However, she is human and eventually rights her wrongs, which is so nice to see. I was rooting for her in spite of the tangled web of lies and deception she had to work tearing down once she caught herself in her own trap.

Amee

A Passion Most Pure by Julie Lessman

Rating: 5 Stars

A book filled with passion and love and lots of drama! Even though there is quite a bit of drama, everything is resolved and is very heartwarming.

Amee

A Bride in the Bargain by Deeanne Gist

Rating: 5 Stars

Reminiscent of her first novel, A BRIDE MOST BEGRUDGING, Gist's fifth novel is another riveting love story. Characters from THE MEASURE OF A LADY make a surprise appearance as well!

Amee

How Do I Love Thee? by Nancy Moser

Rating: 5 Stars

Based on the life of Elizabeth Barrett Browning and her love affair with Robert Browning. Their love story is so sweet and it's only sweeter knowing it was real.

Amee

Stand-In Groom by Kaye Dacus

Rating: 4 Stars

Wonderful contemporary novel about forgiving people in your past in order to open yourself up to love in the present/future.

Jane W.

Tuesday Night at the Blue Moon by Debbie Fuller Thomas

Rating: 5 Stars

I couldn't believe this was a first book for this author! Plot was intriguing, character development was excellent...I can't wait to read more by her!

Margie

The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

Rating: 5 Stars

This is the wonderful love story of Clare and Henry. Henry is a time traveler and goes in and out of Clare's life. Im not going to see the movie because I think it cannot do this great book justice.

Melinda Joy

Let Them Eat Cake by Sandra Bryd

Rating: 5 Stars

Excellent Book!

Melinda Joy

Healing the Boss's Heart by Valerie Hansen

Rating: 4 Stars

I haven't finished the book yet, but I'm hooked so far :)