Monday, January 13, 2025

Within Arm's Reach by Ann Napolitano


 ★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.

When your family is imperfect but has expectations of perfection, it's an effort to live as though "nothing is going on." Napolitano offers a story of generations affected by moral failure and shame. She touches on the love that remains and is reshaped by being human and fallible.

A wonderful story that will keep you turning pages and sympathizing with the cares of everyday life and passing years.

Earthly Utopias by Yolanda Zappaterra


★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.

 Christian scripture reminds us to love God more than we love his creation and to worship only him. That said, life started in a garden and we are always drawn into the love of nature. Whether we create beauty or enjoy what others shape, the appreciation of religious settings is worldwide. We long to be back to the first utopia on earth.

This book of gardens will delight the eyes and give you ideas of how to shape your own setting for meditation, learning, and quiet reflection.

Neighbor, Love Yourself by Bryan Crum


★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.

As a hospital chaplain, Crum has heard many regrets. With stories and examples, he challenges the reader to live life fully. He offers encouragement to the reader: value who you are as individuals and the beloved child of God. 

If you need to hear a voice of hope and possibility, you'll enjoy this book. If you need an uplift and push to see yourself as God does, pick up a copy.

One Year Ago in Spain by Evelyn Skye


★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.

 A story of suspense and doubts and expectations. What happens when the person you love is utterly unlike you? When you have a choice to be there for him or live life in the safety of your habits and cultures. Claire is about to find out whether her boyfriend is who she thought he was - or if their relationship is worth pursuing.

Lots of romance, questions, and the long process of finding hope and joy with another person.

Sing Me Home to Carolina by Joy Callaway


★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.

Anytime a novel has "Carolina" in the title, I expect a sweet romance and family story. This one doesn't disappoint. 

When your heart is torn between family and career, between romance past and present, where do you land? In helping her family find their way, Hattie uses her skills and experience to create an unexpected path that opens up relationships and possibilities that she doesn't expect.

A good story, a satisfying twist of the heart, and a happy ending.

Darker Than the Sky by Matt Tracy


★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.

Across the States, a tale with gripping descriptions and a mysterious treasure. A son and his father embark on an unwanted and unexpected adventure after their plane crashes. This was a good story - with likable and confusing characters who kept me guessing until the end.

Recommended to those who like treasure hunts, mysteries, good descriptions, and suspense. That might be you - on a commute or trip. Toss it into your briefcase?

A Million Little Miracles Study Guide by Mark Batterson


★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.

You don't need the original book though it's helpful. You can take a group through this study guide or work through it yourself. Batterson carves out hopeful ways of seeing life and moving from one blessing to another, no matter what the circumstances are.

The author encourages us to consider a God of miracles, at work in us and in love with his world and his creatures. If you're looking for a new and fresh perspective, pick this us and meet some friends in a coffee shop to discuss ways that God is intervening and how you are part of him creating new things in the world.