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Recommend this book:
The Moonshiner's Wife
Twyla Dione Smith
2025 Finalist
336 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
The Moonshiner’s Wife by Twyla Dione Smith offers readers a glimpse into the rugged life of the American South during the tumultuous era of the Great Depression. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Birdie Fontenot, a resilient woman bound by love and hardship, Smith crafts a narrative rich in historical detail and emotional depth. The novel opens with Birdie grappling with the impending birth of her child while her husband, Troy, endures suffering in prison for moonshining. This establishes the foundation for a tale of survival and moral complexity. Birdie must confront the difficulties of running a farm and raising a family amid economic hardship and societal scrutiny.
Twyla Dione Smith skillfully captures the era’s essence, from the colloquial dialogue to the vivid descriptions of the rural setting. Historical context, such as the enforcement of Prohibition and the economic impact of crop failures, enriches the storyline. Supporting characters, such as Birdie’s twin sister Versie and the various townsfolk, add color and complexity to the narrative, reflecting the interconnectedness of community life. The Moonshiner’s Wife reflects the human spirit's capacity to endure and adapt. Smith’s prose is engaging, drawing readers into Birdie’s world with empathy. The novel explores love, loss, and resilience and offers a window into a bygone era with timeless themes that speak to the endurance of the human heart. This is an excellent choice for anyone interested in historical fiction that both tells a story and evokes the emotions and struggles of its characters. The twists and turns make this a book you won’t want to miss.
The Moonshiner’s Wife by Twyla Dione Smith offers readers a glimpse into the rugged life of the American South during the tumultuous era of the Great Depression. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Birdie Fontenot, a resilient woman bound by love and hardship, Smith crafts a narrative rich in historical detail and emotional depth. The novel opens with Birdie grappling with the impending birth of her child while her husband, Troy, endures suffering in prison for moonshining. This establishes the foundation for a tale of survival and moral complexity. Birdie must confront the difficulties of running a farm and raising a family amid economic hardship and societal scrutiny.
Twyla Dione Smith skillfully captures the era’s essence, from the colloquial dialogue to the vivid descriptions of the rural setting. Historical context, such as the enforcement of Prohibition and the economic impact of crop failures, enriches the storyline. Supporting characters, such as Birdie’s twin sister Versie and the various townsfolk, add color and complexity to the narrative, reflecting the interconnectedness of community life. The Moonshiner’s Wife reflects the human spirit's capacity to endure and adapt. Smith’s prose is engaging, drawing readers into Birdie’s world with empathy. The novel explores love, loss, and resilience and offers a window into a bygone era with timeless themes that speak to the endurance of the human heart. This is an excellent choice for anyone interested in historical fiction that both tells a story and evokes the emotions and struggles of its characters. The twists and turns make this a book you won’t want to miss.
Recommend this book:
Magda Revealed
Ursula Werner
2025 Honorable Mention
328 Pages
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Lucinda E Clarke for Readers' Favorite
Ursula Werner reminds us in Magda Revealed that, until recently, history has always been written by men. Most parts of the New Testament were penned many years after the crucifixion, either through dictated word of mouth or by those who never met Jesus while he was alive. Now it is the turn of Mary Magdalene to tell her story. From her early days growing up in Magdala to loving parents, Magda was happy until she was assaulted and raped by religious students. It was this early violation, over which she had no control, that later falsely labeled her as a whore and prostitute. After hiding away for two years at home, she was emotionally healed by Jeshua and became one of his disciples for the full length of his ministry. She was also present at his death. Werner puts the facts straight along with other stories such as the death of John the Baptist and what really happened at the last supper. Skilfully weaving traditional tales from a different point of view, the author highlights the misogynistic writings of Paul and the days of the early Christian church. She brilliantly brings Yeshua to life as a real flesh and blood man who lived over two thousand years ago.
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I began to read Magda Revealed by Ursula Werner, but what a delightful book it is. The author has put a whole new slant on the life of Mary Magdalene and the ministry of Jesus (Yeshua) which was both unexpected and delightful. Without giving away any spoilers, it has a magnificent twist at the end. I loved how she kept parts of the story Christians know so well and debunked others. The descriptions of the time, place, characters, and scenery take you right back in time over two thousand years ago so that you feel you are right there. The transforming, mixing of spirits with the patients Magda anointed was quite mystical yet was also real and convincing. Just one example of the beautiful language: “… liquid ribbons of jasmine and rose that coiled around her …” While in theory this is written as fiction, who can tell if it is not closer to fact than the tale we have been told over the years? I would like to think so.
Ursula Werner reminds us in Magda Revealed that, until recently, history has always been written by men. Most parts of the New Testament were penned many years after the crucifixion, either through dictated word of mouth or by those who never met Jesus while he was alive. Now it is the turn of Mary Magdalene to tell her story. From her early days growing up in Magdala to loving parents, Magda was happy until she was assaulted and raped by religious students. It was this early violation, over which she had no control, that later falsely labeled her as a whore and prostitute. After hiding away for two years at home, she was emotionally healed by Jeshua and became one of his disciples for the full length of his ministry. She was also present at his death. Werner puts the facts straight along with other stories such as the death of John the Baptist and what really happened at the last supper. Skilfully weaving traditional tales from a different point of view, the author highlights the misogynistic writings of Paul and the days of the early Christian church. She brilliantly brings Yeshua to life as a real flesh and blood man who lived over two thousand years ago.
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I began to read Magda Revealed by Ursula Werner, but what a delightful book it is. The author has put a whole new slant on the life of Mary Magdalene and the ministry of Jesus (Yeshua) which was both unexpected and delightful. Without giving away any spoilers, it has a magnificent twist at the end. I loved how she kept parts of the story Christians know so well and debunked others. The descriptions of the time, place, characters, and scenery take you right back in time over two thousand years ago so that you feel you are right there. The transforming, mixing of spirits with the patients Magda anointed was quite mystical yet was also real and convincing. Just one example of the beautiful language: “… liquid ribbons of jasmine and rose that coiled around her …” While in theory this is written as fiction, who can tell if it is not closer to fact than the tale we have been told over the years? I would like to think so.
Recommend this book:
The Rocket Man's Daughter
A Novel of Family, Faith, and Resistance in Nazi Germany
Bruce Gardner
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Rocket Man's Daughter is a work of fiction penned by author Bruce Gardner in the historical fiction, interpersonal drama, and wartime stories genres. In this moving tale, Klara Neumann, a young German woman and aspiring psychiatric nurse, confronts the brutalities of Nazi Germany from 1934 to 1945. As Hitler rises to power, Klara vows to protect her Jewish friends from persecution. Her efforts draw the dangerous attention of her Nazi-obsessed sister and a cunning SS officer. As World War II escalates, Klara joins a resistance group linked to theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Amidst the chaos of war, her faith and loyalty are tested, especially when her pre-war American boyfriend, now a military officer, reappears.
Author Bruce Gardner has crafted an emotionally gripping novel that shows clear empathy for people living through this difficult period of recent history. The juxtaposition of Klara's compassionate determination against the backdrop of Nazi brutality creates a profound sense of tension and urgency that grips readers from the start, and Gardner narrates with close attention to detail, compassion, and confidence. Klara's inner turmoil and courage in the face of overwhelming danger were deeply moving elements of her complex character, making her a compelling and relatable heroine with plenty of room to grow and be shaped by the challenges she faces in the plot. The historical context was vividly portrayed in all its atmospheric horror and fear, and the suspenseful cat-and-mouse game with the SS was a particularly riveting plot hook that kept me on edge. Overall, The Rocket Man's Daughter is a powerful work of wartime fiction that I would highly recommend for its attention to detail in both period and characterization.
The Rocket Man's Daughter is a work of fiction penned by author Bruce Gardner in the historical fiction, interpersonal drama, and wartime stories genres. In this moving tale, Klara Neumann, a young German woman and aspiring psychiatric nurse, confronts the brutalities of Nazi Germany from 1934 to 1945. As Hitler rises to power, Klara vows to protect her Jewish friends from persecution. Her efforts draw the dangerous attention of her Nazi-obsessed sister and a cunning SS officer. As World War II escalates, Klara joins a resistance group linked to theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Amidst the chaos of war, her faith and loyalty are tested, especially when her pre-war American boyfriend, now a military officer, reappears.
Author Bruce Gardner has crafted an emotionally gripping novel that shows clear empathy for people living through this difficult period of recent history. The juxtaposition of Klara's compassionate determination against the backdrop of Nazi brutality creates a profound sense of tension and urgency that grips readers from the start, and Gardner narrates with close attention to detail, compassion, and confidence. Klara's inner turmoil and courage in the face of overwhelming danger were deeply moving elements of her complex character, making her a compelling and relatable heroine with plenty of room to grow and be shaped by the challenges she faces in the plot. The historical context was vividly portrayed in all its atmospheric horror and fear, and the suspenseful cat-and-mouse game with the SS was a particularly riveting plot hook that kept me on edge. Overall, The Rocket Man's Daughter is a powerful work of wartime fiction that I would highly recommend for its attention to detail in both period and characterization.
Recommend this book:
New Star
Book 1 of The Magi's Encounters
Lana Christian
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Eric Ferrar for Readers' Favorite
New Star by Lana Christian tells the story of Akilah, a well-renowned astronomer and Persian Magus priest who discovers a star connected to a pivotal Jewish prophecy. In the wake of political tension in Persia, the sudden arrival of this unique star prompts Akilah to analyze its meaning thoroughly. Even though his inquiry might cost him his position as a Magus, Akilah delves into Jewish prophecies that foretell the birth of a powerful king to uncover more about the star's origin. Determined to unearth more details, he conscripts two other Magi for an exploratory expedition to Israel. Not everyone on the Magi Council is convinced of the significance of this voyage, and they attempt to thwart Akilah's plans. Nevertheless, Akilah and his two companions embark upon a challenging journey. What they find will force them to question their beliefs and compel them to trust a God they are increasingly discovering more about.
Lana Christian's New Star is book one of The Magi's Encounters series. It intertwines a spellbinding exploration of the biblical story revolving around the Magi and their discovery of the birth of Jesus, the King of the Jews. This book offers a fascinating representation of the conflict between empirical discovery, religious traditions, political and cultural nuances, and political power. The author skillfully interlaces historical facts with well-developed characters in a narrative that reverberates on numerous levels. This refreshing take on the Magi is an eye-opener to the discord that might exist between their established beliefs and their pursuit of knowledge. I applaud the author's ability to profoundly capture Akilah's cognitive and emotional states throughout the narrative. Both Akilah and his companions were relentless in their search for truth, even if it might cost them their societal status or contradict their religious ideologies. Lana does an exceptional job of illustrating this point in her book, making it an engaging and thought-provoking tale from start to finish. If you appreciate vibrant and intellectual writing with complex human relationships and relatable characters at its core, New Star is a must-read.
New Star by Lana Christian tells the story of Akilah, a well-renowned astronomer and Persian Magus priest who discovers a star connected to a pivotal Jewish prophecy. In the wake of political tension in Persia, the sudden arrival of this unique star prompts Akilah to analyze its meaning thoroughly. Even though his inquiry might cost him his position as a Magus, Akilah delves into Jewish prophecies that foretell the birth of a powerful king to uncover more about the star's origin. Determined to unearth more details, he conscripts two other Magi for an exploratory expedition to Israel. Not everyone on the Magi Council is convinced of the significance of this voyage, and they attempt to thwart Akilah's plans. Nevertheless, Akilah and his two companions embark upon a challenging journey. What they find will force them to question their beliefs and compel them to trust a God they are increasingly discovering more about.
Lana Christian's New Star is book one of The Magi's Encounters series. It intertwines a spellbinding exploration of the biblical story revolving around the Magi and their discovery of the birth of Jesus, the King of the Jews. This book offers a fascinating representation of the conflict between empirical discovery, religious traditions, political and cultural nuances, and political power. The author skillfully interlaces historical facts with well-developed characters in a narrative that reverberates on numerous levels. This refreshing take on the Magi is an eye-opener to the discord that might exist between their established beliefs and their pursuit of knowledge. I applaud the author's ability to profoundly capture Akilah's cognitive and emotional states throughout the narrative. Both Akilah and his companions were relentless in their search for truth, even if it might cost them their societal status or contradict their religious ideologies. Lana does an exceptional job of illustrating this point in her book, making it an engaging and thought-provoking tale from start to finish. If you appreciate vibrant and intellectual writing with complex human relationships and relatable characters at its core, New Star is a must-read.
Recommend this book:
Sands of Bone
The Oaths of Blood Saga Book 2
Logan D. Irons
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Sands of Bone by Logan D. Irons is a grimdark historical fantasy set against the backdrop of the Crusades. Ninety years after the Christians seized Jerusalem, the kingdom’s army lies in ruins, and the city faces Saladin’s wrath. Robert Cutnose, a battle-hardened warrior, reluctantly joins Lord Balian de Ibelin in defending the city. As assassins lurk in Saladin’s ranks and hidden enemies conspire within the Order, Cutnose must navigate both brutal combat and political betrayal. With legendary figures, gritty realism, and supernatural elements, this novel delivers a brutal, action-packed continuation of the Oaths of Blood Saga.
Author Logan D. Irons has a cinematic way of writing that makes the vivid and unflinching battle scenes leap off the pages in this story, capturing the harsh reality of medieval warfare during Crusader times. This brutal, historically accurate level of detail is then layered with totally believable fantasy elements so that the combination of familiar historical figures with supernatural twists becomes all the more unique. Every character you encounter here is morally complex: flawed and capable of unspeakable things. The grimdark attitudes work well, as you have to choose to understand the justifications that Cutnose makes for the things he must do. This is subtle in the dialogue and never over-dramatized, but we always get a sense of what's going on between his head and heart as survival and duty drive him forward. This makes for some real heart-in-your-throat moments later down the line that had me gripped. Overall, Sands of Bone is a superb continuation of a bloody and brutal saga that I would highly recommend.
Sands of Bone by Logan D. Irons is a grimdark historical fantasy set against the backdrop of the Crusades. Ninety years after the Christians seized Jerusalem, the kingdom’s army lies in ruins, and the city faces Saladin’s wrath. Robert Cutnose, a battle-hardened warrior, reluctantly joins Lord Balian de Ibelin in defending the city. As assassins lurk in Saladin’s ranks and hidden enemies conspire within the Order, Cutnose must navigate both brutal combat and political betrayal. With legendary figures, gritty realism, and supernatural elements, this novel delivers a brutal, action-packed continuation of the Oaths of Blood Saga.
Author Logan D. Irons has a cinematic way of writing that makes the vivid and unflinching battle scenes leap off the pages in this story, capturing the harsh reality of medieval warfare during Crusader times. This brutal, historically accurate level of detail is then layered with totally believable fantasy elements so that the combination of familiar historical figures with supernatural twists becomes all the more unique. Every character you encounter here is morally complex: flawed and capable of unspeakable things. The grimdark attitudes work well, as you have to choose to understand the justifications that Cutnose makes for the things he must do. This is subtle in the dialogue and never over-dramatized, but we always get a sense of what's going on between his head and heart as survival and duty drive him forward. This makes for some real heart-in-your-throat moments later down the line that had me gripped. Overall, Sands of Bone is a superb continuation of a bloody and brutal saga that I would highly recommend.
Recommend this book:
And Their Numbers Grew
An Epic Early Church Anthology
Naomi Craig, Donna E. Lane
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Danelle Petersen for Readers' Favorite
And Their Numbers Grew by Naomi Craig and Donna E. Lane is a fictionalized version of beloved characters in the Bible and the wonderful things they achieved as the Lord's First Messengers. However, being the chosen ones came with many hardships, and the path to victory was never easy. Yet, despite the danger and animosity these Followers of Christ faced, their spirit of perseverance never faded. None of them knew the wonders they would achieve through their unwavering faith and loyalty to the Holy Trinity. None of them could begin to imagine what the outcome of their willingness to spread the Good Word would be, the rewards they would receive. Join them as they tell of their perilous journeys in proclaiming the Lord’s wonderful Word.
I found myself enthralled by the characters’ acts of bravery and determination in the face of adversity, all of whom were willing to give up their lives to spread the Word of God. Naomi Craig and Donna E. Lane do a wonderful job of conveying the characters’ thoughts and feelings, how they at times struggled with their mission and uncertainty regarding their capabilities. I also loved how Donna and Naomi showed the characters’ growing confidence as they began to accept their roles. And Their Numbers Grew Is a truly special book written for all who believe in the Holy Trinity and its powerful message, even those struggling with their faith. These remarkable people, the first to spread the Good News, will remain an inspiration for generations to come.
And Their Numbers Grew by Naomi Craig and Donna E. Lane is a fictionalized version of beloved characters in the Bible and the wonderful things they achieved as the Lord's First Messengers. However, being the chosen ones came with many hardships, and the path to victory was never easy. Yet, despite the danger and animosity these Followers of Christ faced, their spirit of perseverance never faded. None of them knew the wonders they would achieve through their unwavering faith and loyalty to the Holy Trinity. None of them could begin to imagine what the outcome of their willingness to spread the Good Word would be, the rewards they would receive. Join them as they tell of their perilous journeys in proclaiming the Lord’s wonderful Word.
I found myself enthralled by the characters’ acts of bravery and determination in the face of adversity, all of whom were willing to give up their lives to spread the Word of God. Naomi Craig and Donna E. Lane do a wonderful job of conveying the characters’ thoughts and feelings, how they at times struggled with their mission and uncertainty regarding their capabilities. I also loved how Donna and Naomi showed the characters’ growing confidence as they began to accept their roles. And Their Numbers Grew Is a truly special book written for all who believe in the Holy Trinity and its powerful message, even those struggling with their faith. These remarkable people, the first to spread the Good News, will remain an inspiration for generations to come.
Recommend this book:
Nina Winter and the Age of Exile
T.S. Maynard
2024 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers' Favorite
While trying to decide which suitor to choose, Tomas or Günther, Nina encountered demons in the woods near her village. Tomas ran to help, but Günther shot an arrow and wounded one of the intruders, scaring them away. But it was not over yet. The villagers, led by Boris, tried to ask the nobles from the castle for help. In response, Lord Vandermeer gave orders to take away half of their crops and arrest Günther, accused of Lord Archibald Braemer's murder. Nina saw a mysterious figure with a painted face in the fog and feared the worst. Finding themselves between a rock and a hard place, the villagers must make a difficult decision. Only Nina's mother, Emma, has the strength to pray. Nina Winter and the Age of Exile by T.S. Maynard, the second book in a series, is for fans of historical and Christian fiction, adventure, and coming-of-age novels.
Nina Winter and the Age of Exile is an action-packed, captivating, and quick read. Although being a part of a series, it is a stand-alone book. T.S. Maynard depicts a medieval village with hardworking people living there. I could feel their despair, and the unfairness of their situation made my blood boil. That's how realistic Maynard's prose is. We meet Nina when she is just eighteen years old and pulls off the petals of a flower to choose a loved one between Tomas and Günther. She goes through a painful stage of inner growth as the events unfold. The other characters are very profound as well. Emma's strong faith in God, Tomas's courage, and his father Klaus's responsibility drive the narrative. I appreciated the fast pace, the many stunning twists in the storyline, and the motivational aspect of the book. I recommend Nina Winter and the Age of Exile to those exploring how our faith impacts the choices we make in life.
While trying to decide which suitor to choose, Tomas or Günther, Nina encountered demons in the woods near her village. Tomas ran to help, but Günther shot an arrow and wounded one of the intruders, scaring them away. But it was not over yet. The villagers, led by Boris, tried to ask the nobles from the castle for help. In response, Lord Vandermeer gave orders to take away half of their crops and arrest Günther, accused of Lord Archibald Braemer's murder. Nina saw a mysterious figure with a painted face in the fog and feared the worst. Finding themselves between a rock and a hard place, the villagers must make a difficult decision. Only Nina's mother, Emma, has the strength to pray. Nina Winter and the Age of Exile by T.S. Maynard, the second book in a series, is for fans of historical and Christian fiction, adventure, and coming-of-age novels.
Nina Winter and the Age of Exile is an action-packed, captivating, and quick read. Although being a part of a series, it is a stand-alone book. T.S. Maynard depicts a medieval village with hardworking people living there. I could feel their despair, and the unfairness of their situation made my blood boil. That's how realistic Maynard's prose is. We meet Nina when she is just eighteen years old and pulls off the petals of a flower to choose a loved one between Tomas and Günther. She goes through a painful stage of inner growth as the events unfold. The other characters are very profound as well. Emma's strong faith in God, Tomas's courage, and his father Klaus's responsibility drive the narrative. I appreciated the fast pace, the many stunning twists in the storyline, and the motivational aspect of the book. I recommend Nina Winter and the Age of Exile to those exploring how our faith impacts the choices we make in life.
Recommend this book:
Climbing To The Sun
A novel
Shelley Burchfield
2024 Bronze Medal
324 Pages
Check current price
Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers' Favorite
Climbing to the Sun by Shelley Burchfield started with Kizzy Beecham giving birth to a little girl on January 23, 1901. Seeta Young, the midwife, assured the scared young mother that her daughter looked like a white baby, although her biological father was black. Twenty-seven years later, Callie Beecham ran a small business in Pickens, South Carolina. She offered those less fortunate her medical treatments based on plants, looked after her elderly neighbor, Silas Roberts, and dreamed of becoming a nurse one day. Zeke Young, from the settlement of Liberia established by former slaves, asked Callie to help his wife with complications after birth. However, the Ku Klux Klan considered Liberia a forbidden area for anyone who wanted to help its inhabitants. The pillar of local society, Dr. Earl Davis, declared war on Callie for her attempts to provide medical care to the people of Liberia and her friendship with his assistant, Dr. Sam Epstein. Shaken and desperate, Callie learned that she was not alone.
Shelley Burchfield's Climbing to the Sun is a match for the most prominent works of world literature. Wonderfully written, Callie's story is haunting. Shelley paints a shocking picture of the segregated South with firm, honest strokes. Seeta is a true woman of God compared to the hypocrites calling themselves Christians while burning crosses to scare those who look different or ruining the lives of people who prefer synagogues over churches. Shelley is brutally honest, even regarding Callie, whose moral dilemma runs deep. Shelley's finely crafted characters will stay with me forever. This is also a captivating family drama with carefully guarded secrets and incredible revelations. This page-turner offers us a glimpse into the ancient art of naturopathy. The author presents it as a connecting thread between generations of amazing healer women who knew how to treat maladies with something they grew in their backyards. I highly recommend Climbing to the Sun to fans of drama, historical fiction, and women-centered novels, and to all those who refuse to give up in the face of injustice.
Climbing to the Sun by Shelley Burchfield started with Kizzy Beecham giving birth to a little girl on January 23, 1901. Seeta Young, the midwife, assured the scared young mother that her daughter looked like a white baby, although her biological father was black. Twenty-seven years later, Callie Beecham ran a small business in Pickens, South Carolina. She offered those less fortunate her medical treatments based on plants, looked after her elderly neighbor, Silas Roberts, and dreamed of becoming a nurse one day. Zeke Young, from the settlement of Liberia established by former slaves, asked Callie to help his wife with complications after birth. However, the Ku Klux Klan considered Liberia a forbidden area for anyone who wanted to help its inhabitants. The pillar of local society, Dr. Earl Davis, declared war on Callie for her attempts to provide medical care to the people of Liberia and her friendship with his assistant, Dr. Sam Epstein. Shaken and desperate, Callie learned that she was not alone.
Shelley Burchfield's Climbing to the Sun is a match for the most prominent works of world literature. Wonderfully written, Callie's story is haunting. Shelley paints a shocking picture of the segregated South with firm, honest strokes. Seeta is a true woman of God compared to the hypocrites calling themselves Christians while burning crosses to scare those who look different or ruining the lives of people who prefer synagogues over churches. Shelley is brutally honest, even regarding Callie, whose moral dilemma runs deep. Shelley's finely crafted characters will stay with me forever. This is also a captivating family drama with carefully guarded secrets and incredible revelations. This page-turner offers us a glimpse into the ancient art of naturopathy. The author presents it as a connecting thread between generations of amazing healer women who knew how to treat maladies with something they grew in their backyards. I highly recommend Climbing to the Sun to fans of drama, historical fiction, and women-centered novels, and to all those who refuse to give up in the face of injustice.
Recommend this book:
A Waltz with Traitors
A.L. Sowards
2024 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Stephanie Lynn for Readers' Favorite
A Waltz With Traitors by A. L. Sowards gives readers a glance at a part of WWI and Russian history that is often overlooked in modern accounts of the war. This book brings it to life in such a vivid and beautiful way that shows her love for the people and their culture in this eye-opening fictional account! Sowards knows her stuff, and it’s apparent in this historical novel about the Czechoslovak Legion and their systematic takeover of a large portion of the Trans-Siberian Railway during their time in Russia. In their valiant efforts to claim a new nation for themselves, a free country that was to be named Czechoslovakia, these brave men and their families not only overcame impossible odds but also changed the course of history in the region. We see that through the eyes of a group of men who called the Sixth Regiment home for several years during these dangerous times.
A Waltz With Traitors by A. L. Sowards is different from anything I have read so far. I loved meeting these characters and seeing this time in history from a different perspective! I had not heard of the Czechoslovak Legion before reading this book and seeing a bit of their outlook on the events of the war and their journey to independence in this setting was both enlightening and fascinating! I loved Filip and Nadia from the moment they met, but I quickly fell in love with so many of these characters, and from the opening pages I knew I had found something special! This book is an emotional and heart-warming tale that is immensely entertaining and well researched concerning this powerful and revolutionary time in history.
A Waltz With Traitors by A. L. Sowards gives readers a glance at a part of WWI and Russian history that is often overlooked in modern accounts of the war. This book brings it to life in such a vivid and beautiful way that shows her love for the people and their culture in this eye-opening fictional account! Sowards knows her stuff, and it’s apparent in this historical novel about the Czechoslovak Legion and their systematic takeover of a large portion of the Trans-Siberian Railway during their time in Russia. In their valiant efforts to claim a new nation for themselves, a free country that was to be named Czechoslovakia, these brave men and their families not only overcame impossible odds but also changed the course of history in the region. We see that through the eyes of a group of men who called the Sixth Regiment home for several years during these dangerous times.
A Waltz With Traitors by A. L. Sowards is different from anything I have read so far. I loved meeting these characters and seeing this time in history from a different perspective! I had not heard of the Czechoslovak Legion before reading this book and seeing a bit of their outlook on the events of the war and their journey to independence in this setting was both enlightening and fascinating! I loved Filip and Nadia from the moment they met, but I quickly fell in love with so many of these characters, and from the opening pages I knew I had found something special! This book is an emotional and heart-warming tale that is immensely entertaining and well researched concerning this powerful and revolutionary time in history.
Recommend this book:
From the White House to the Amish
A Story Inspired by the Life of Thomas E. Kirkman
Katrina Hoover Lee
2024 Gold Medal
336 Pages
Check current price
Christian - Historical Fiction
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite
From the White House to the Amish: A Story Inspired by the Life of Thomas E. Kirkman by Katrina Hoover Lee is a beautifully written Christian historical fiction novel. This story follows the life of the famous White House artist Thomas E. Kirkman and the many exciting adventures he had in life. Born into a Baptist family, Tom had no interest in religion as he grew up. However, he abandoned all faith in religion when he lost someone very close to him. He worked in the CIA and the White House, but nothing fulfilled him. Grieving and believing that God didn’t care, Tom decided to dedicate his life to his work and nothing else. But the real big change came when an unassuming Amish man came into his life and turned his world upside down. Can a man like Tom finally believe in God and His Grace? Or was he too cynical for it?
Divided into four very detailed parts, From the White House to the Amish was an inspiring and motivational story of a man who had given up on everything. Author Katrina Hoover Lee did a fantastic job of making the reader feel like a part of the story. I felt as if I had known Tom all my life as I read about his life and his struggles. I felt a connection with him the moment he was introduced and experienced every emotion he went through. The descriptions were great, and the imagery was touching. There was never a moment when I felt like Tom was out of reach for me. It was a believable, beautiful journey that gave me the courage and motivation to look for answers. This is the perfect story for anyone who loves to read biographies.
From the White House to the Amish: A Story Inspired by the Life of Thomas E. Kirkman by Katrina Hoover Lee is a beautifully written Christian historical fiction novel. This story follows the life of the famous White House artist Thomas E. Kirkman and the many exciting adventures he had in life. Born into a Baptist family, Tom had no interest in religion as he grew up. However, he abandoned all faith in religion when he lost someone very close to him. He worked in the CIA and the White House, but nothing fulfilled him. Grieving and believing that God didn’t care, Tom decided to dedicate his life to his work and nothing else. But the real big change came when an unassuming Amish man came into his life and turned his world upside down. Can a man like Tom finally believe in God and His Grace? Or was he too cynical for it?
Divided into four very detailed parts, From the White House to the Amish was an inspiring and motivational story of a man who had given up on everything. Author Katrina Hoover Lee did a fantastic job of making the reader feel like a part of the story. I felt as if I had known Tom all my life as I read about his life and his struggles. I felt a connection with him the moment he was introduced and experienced every emotion he went through. The descriptions were great, and the imagery was touching. There was never a moment when I felt like Tom was out of reach for me. It was a believable, beautiful journey that gave me the courage and motivation to look for answers. This is the perfect story for anyone who loves to read biographies.
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