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 by G.F. Cantrell is a captivating tale about love: past loves, new loves, self-love. Intelligent and optimistic Maggie Chisholm knows she’s in big trouble from the moment she lays eyes on her new contractor, Finn. Their easy-flowing conversations are full of humor and depth, something she can’t imagine having wi...){kind=link}
Natural Disasters, A Love Story
G.F. Cantrell
2019 Honorable Mention
336 Pages
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Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by Kristy Vee for Readers' Favorite
Natural Disasters (A Love Story) by G.F. Cantrell is a captivating tale about love: past loves, new loves, self-love. Intelligent and optimistic Maggie Chisholm knows she’s in big trouble from the moment she lays eyes on her new contractor, Finn. Their easy-flowing conversations are full of humor and depth, something she can’t imagine having with her controlling, tyrannical husband, Martin. In fact, he’s the complete opposite of Finn’s down-to-earth ways, which only confirms what Maggie has been avoiding for so long; another dreaded divorce. Unable to stop thinking of one another, the two are filled with the giddiness and joy of newfound love, but also hesitation, as they wonder if they’re in way over their heads. Could they have really found the greatest love either of them has ever known? Told from both perspectives, their accounts of how each encounter bonds them further and further into the depths of their souls are quite different. Does true love and happily-ever-after exist? Or will they discover that it just might mean something different to everyone?
Natural Disasters is a thought-provoking read that drew me in from the first paragraph. Many married adults find themselves in these types of unforeseen circumstances, and I loved that it wasn’t based on a group of twenty-somethings, but actually seasoned, experienced adults who’ve been through divorces, raising children, health issues, and, yes, dealing with contractors when renovating your home. Well-written, full of twists, and I liked that it was told from both characters' viewpoints. (And we all know that men and women think very differently!) I’m always happy to read books that support self-love and lifelong happiness. Five stars.
Natural Disasters (A Love Story) by G.F. Cantrell is a captivating tale about love: past loves, new loves, self-love. Intelligent and optimistic Maggie Chisholm knows she’s in big trouble from the moment she lays eyes on her new contractor, Finn. Their easy-flowing conversations are full of humor and depth, something she can’t imagine having with her controlling, tyrannical husband, Martin. In fact, he’s the complete opposite of Finn’s down-to-earth ways, which only confirms what Maggie has been avoiding for so long; another dreaded divorce. Unable to stop thinking of one another, the two are filled with the giddiness and joy of newfound love, but also hesitation, as they wonder if they’re in way over their heads. Could they have really found the greatest love either of them has ever known? Told from both perspectives, their accounts of how each encounter bonds them further and further into the depths of their souls are quite different. Does true love and happily-ever-after exist? Or will they discover that it just might mean something different to everyone?
Natural Disasters is a thought-provoking read that drew me in from the first paragraph. Many married adults find themselves in these types of unforeseen circumstances, and I loved that it wasn’t based on a group of twenty-somethings, but actually seasoned, experienced adults who’ve been through divorces, raising children, health issues, and, yes, dealing with contractors when renovating your home. Well-written, full of twists, and I liked that it was told from both characters' viewpoints. (And we all know that men and women think very differently!) I’m always happy to read books that support self-love and lifelong happiness. Five stars.
Recommend this book:
Angels on Overtime
A Divine Romantic Comedy
Ann Crawford
2019 Bronze Medal
188 Pages
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Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by Lesley Jones for Readers' Favorite
In Angels on Overtime by Ann Crawford, Jack and Emily are two very unhappy people. Both of their relationships are in crisis but it seems they have resigned themselves to a life of monotony and misery. That is until angels Brooke and David volunteer to travel to Earth and help them discover each other and achieve all of their dreams. The only difficulty is getting the ill-fated humans to listen to their advice and take notice of all the spiritual signs thrown in their path. As the hapless duo seems determined to continue with their miserable existences, Brooke and David and the other assigned angels have to work overtime to bring them together. When Jack's and Emily's lives continue on a downward spiral, the angels realize that desperate measures are needed to make them aware that heaven can be found on Earth after all and that good fortune can manifest itself in an instant.
Angels on Overtime by Ann Crawford is such an excellently written comedy romance with a unique perspective. I loved the angels and the dialogue between each other. There were so many laugh out loud moments as they worked tirelessly to bring Jack and Emily together. I thought the angel characters were diverse and not the usual stereotypical angel personalities you would expect. The comedy was interjected with some quite endearing moments, especially between Emily and her mother. The subject of manifestation and law of attraction is something that I am very interested in, and the author covered the topics perfectly. Having a clear intention of what you want, and the importance to focus on the positive not the negative was also relayed in a very clear but entertaining manner. Jack's and Emily's increased awareness that they were creating their own reality was developed slowly and realistically too. I loved this particular quote from the novel: “Love and remember. Love and wake up. That’s all these humans have to do. And you’d be amazed how many mountains they put in their own way.” The whole message was so spiritually uplifting and inspiring that this book is definitely going to be recommended to my friends.
In Angels on Overtime by Ann Crawford, Jack and Emily are two very unhappy people. Both of their relationships are in crisis but it seems they have resigned themselves to a life of monotony and misery. That is until angels Brooke and David volunteer to travel to Earth and help them discover each other and achieve all of their dreams. The only difficulty is getting the ill-fated humans to listen to their advice and take notice of all the spiritual signs thrown in their path. As the hapless duo seems determined to continue with their miserable existences, Brooke and David and the other assigned angels have to work overtime to bring them together. When Jack's and Emily's lives continue on a downward spiral, the angels realize that desperate measures are needed to make them aware that heaven can be found on Earth after all and that good fortune can manifest itself in an instant.
Angels on Overtime by Ann Crawford is such an excellently written comedy romance with a unique perspective. I loved the angels and the dialogue between each other. There were so many laugh out loud moments as they worked tirelessly to bring Jack and Emily together. I thought the angel characters were diverse and not the usual stereotypical angel personalities you would expect. The comedy was interjected with some quite endearing moments, especially between Emily and her mother. The subject of manifestation and law of attraction is something that I am very interested in, and the author covered the topics perfectly. Having a clear intention of what you want, and the importance to focus on the positive not the negative was also relayed in a very clear but entertaining manner. Jack's and Emily's increased awareness that they were creating their own reality was developed slowly and realistically too. I loved this particular quote from the novel: “Love and remember. Love and wake up. That’s all these humans have to do. And you’d be amazed how many mountains they put in their own way.” The whole message was so spiritually uplifting and inspiring that this book is definitely going to be recommended to my friends.
Recommend this book:
Lights on the Sea
Miquel Reina
2019 Silver Medal
272 Pages
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Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by Jane Finch for Readers' Favorite
Lights on the Sea by Miquel Reina tells the story of Mary Rose and Harold Grapes who live high up on the edge of a cliff overlooking the sea. Threatened with eviction from their home because of safety concerns, Mary Rose and Harold contemplate what life can hold for them if they have to leave their beloved home, which holds the memories of their lost son, Dylan. Fate intervenes and, after a violent storm dislodges the house, they find themselves adrift and alone. The currents and tides take them towards a cold and inhospitable place and they are certain they have met their end, until fate again intervenes. Just when their very lives are at stake, what they encounter causes them to reevaluate their whole life’s purpose.
This is an incredibly moving book, encompassing not only a simple yet awesome story, but weaving in the value of hopes and dreams, of the desire to survive the most unrelenting elements, and the need to fight for one’s very existence. More than that, this book makes the reader consider their view of life, their aspirations, what is really important, and to have the courage to admit when we get it wrong. The author, Miquel Reina, has really crafted a whole bucket full of life lessons from a fable, including appreciation for the life one has, having the courage to strive for one’s dreams, to consider that those dreams may be stifled by sadness, to hold your head up and carry on, and not to be afraid to fail. But more than that, this is a book about coping with the loss of a loved one. The emotions are real and gut wrenching and life changing. Every reader will relate to Mr. and Mrs Grapes and be rooting for their happiness. Incredible writing from an inspiring author.
Lights on the Sea by Miquel Reina tells the story of Mary Rose and Harold Grapes who live high up on the edge of a cliff overlooking the sea. Threatened with eviction from their home because of safety concerns, Mary Rose and Harold contemplate what life can hold for them if they have to leave their beloved home, which holds the memories of their lost son, Dylan. Fate intervenes and, after a violent storm dislodges the house, they find themselves adrift and alone. The currents and tides take them towards a cold and inhospitable place and they are certain they have met their end, until fate again intervenes. Just when their very lives are at stake, what they encounter causes them to reevaluate their whole life’s purpose.
This is an incredibly moving book, encompassing not only a simple yet awesome story, but weaving in the value of hopes and dreams, of the desire to survive the most unrelenting elements, and the need to fight for one’s very existence. More than that, this book makes the reader consider their view of life, their aspirations, what is really important, and to have the courage to admit when we get it wrong. The author, Miquel Reina, has really crafted a whole bucket full of life lessons from a fable, including appreciation for the life one has, having the courage to strive for one’s dreams, to consider that those dreams may be stifled by sadness, to hold your head up and carry on, and not to be afraid to fail. But more than that, this is a book about coping with the loss of a loved one. The emotions are real and gut wrenching and life changing. Every reader will relate to Mr. and Mrs Grapes and be rooting for their happiness. Incredible writing from an inspiring author.
Recommend this book:
The Walls of Lucca
Steve Physioc
2019 Gold Medal
508 Pages
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Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by Kathryn Bennett for Readers' Favorite
The Walls of Lucca by Steven Physioc takes us back in time to Italy during the First World War. A love story set in tense times while the fascist government of Mussolini is on the rise. Isabella Roselli, a young woman who has spirit and is also spiritual, works to bring down barriers that separate families. Isabella was orphaned and was raised by convent sisters who help her grow into the wonderful young woman she is. Her gifts include an ability to grow things and cook, all coupled with a kind heart. Many in Lucca are also inspired by Isabella’s kind heart for anyone who is hurting. Some of the lives she touches include Franco, a soldier who can't escape the horrors of war, and Angelina, a mother of four who has been widowed by the war.
I love a good historical romance and when you dive into one that is set during one of the worst times in history, you know you will get something that is full of a variety of emotions. Whether the backdrop is right in the war or right after, there are so many feelings and emotions, horror, and the strength it takes to get through and everything else. This book ticks all of those boxes for me. Author Steven Physioc has really managed to find the perfect balance of romance and real life. On a personal level, when I am reading a story I need it to feel as if it could be real in order to really enjoy it.
Isabella is the type of character I immediately understand and feel a connection with. She has had a tough start in life, but rather than allowing it to control her and turn her into a person soured by it, she thrives and turns into someone who spreads love and kindness. I don't want to spoil the story, but I can say if you love a good romance and a good solid story, you will enjoy this one for sure. Isabella has such a fantastic spirit, the kind of girl I could see myself being. Again, to me that makes the best type of book when you feel like you are walking with the characters. I can't wait to read the next book.
The Walls of Lucca by Steven Physioc takes us back in time to Italy during the First World War. A love story set in tense times while the fascist government of Mussolini is on the rise. Isabella Roselli, a young woman who has spirit and is also spiritual, works to bring down barriers that separate families. Isabella was orphaned and was raised by convent sisters who help her grow into the wonderful young woman she is. Her gifts include an ability to grow things and cook, all coupled with a kind heart. Many in Lucca are also inspired by Isabella’s kind heart for anyone who is hurting. Some of the lives she touches include Franco, a soldier who can't escape the horrors of war, and Angelina, a mother of four who has been widowed by the war.
I love a good historical romance and when you dive into one that is set during one of the worst times in history, you know you will get something that is full of a variety of emotions. Whether the backdrop is right in the war or right after, there are so many feelings and emotions, horror, and the strength it takes to get through and everything else. This book ticks all of those boxes for me. Author Steven Physioc has really managed to find the perfect balance of romance and real life. On a personal level, when I am reading a story I need it to feel as if it could be real in order to really enjoy it.
Isabella is the type of character I immediately understand and feel a connection with. She has had a tough start in life, but rather than allowing it to control her and turn her into a person soured by it, she thrives and turns into someone who spreads love and kindness. I don't want to spoil the story, but I can say if you love a good romance and a good solid story, you will enjoy this one for sure. Isabella has such a fantastic spirit, the kind of girl I could see myself being. Again, to me that makes the best type of book when you feel like you are walking with the characters. I can't wait to read the next book.
Recommend this book:
Once Upon a Time, a Sparrow
Mary Kabrich
2018 Silver Medal
336 Pages
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Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by Gaynor Lincoln for Readers' Favorite
Once Upon A Time, a Sparrow by Mary Kabrich is the poignant story of a successful school psychologist who discovers her Grade 3 coat in the bottom of her deceased mother’s hope chest. The coat brings back long buried and disturbing memories of that particular year in her childhood. These memories affect her relationship with her professional peers and drive Dr Mary to a therapist. Chapters alternate between the young Mary (Madelyn as she was then), and the adult Dr Mary. Madelyn's parents and teachers talk of her repeating Third Grade, and Madelyn is terrified she will have to leave her friends behind. The changing point for Madelyn, who had been classed as special needs because she had great difficulty learning to read, is when her teacher reads 'The Angel Fairy’s Gift' to the class. This is a magical tale full of encouragement, age old truths, and wisdom. Madelyn was so taken with this story that she passionately wanted to learn to read. It also caught her imagination and developed her storytelling skills. But reading is hard and Madelyn finds challenges and roadblocks along the way.
I loved the multiple layers of this book, the third layer being 'The Angel Fairy's Gift'. The author creates convincing characters in Madelyn, her classmates, and the members of her family. Just as Madelyn’s younger brother, Danny, became hooked on 'The Angel Fairy’s Gift', so did I. I even searched to see if I could purchase a copy online – no luck. It must be a creation of the author's imagination. The novel is skillfully written and quickly draws the reader into both Dr Mary's and Madelyn’s worlds. Being a teacher, I find the story vividly realistic and wonder if there is a measure of biography in this touching novel.
Once Upon A Time, a Sparrow by Mary Kabrich is the poignant story of a successful school psychologist who discovers her Grade 3 coat in the bottom of her deceased mother’s hope chest. The coat brings back long buried and disturbing memories of that particular year in her childhood. These memories affect her relationship with her professional peers and drive Dr Mary to a therapist. Chapters alternate between the young Mary (Madelyn as she was then), and the adult Dr Mary. Madelyn's parents and teachers talk of her repeating Third Grade, and Madelyn is terrified she will have to leave her friends behind. The changing point for Madelyn, who had been classed as special needs because she had great difficulty learning to read, is when her teacher reads 'The Angel Fairy’s Gift' to the class. This is a magical tale full of encouragement, age old truths, and wisdom. Madelyn was so taken with this story that she passionately wanted to learn to read. It also caught her imagination and developed her storytelling skills. But reading is hard and Madelyn finds challenges and roadblocks along the way.
I loved the multiple layers of this book, the third layer being 'The Angel Fairy's Gift'. The author creates convincing characters in Madelyn, her classmates, and the members of her family. Just as Madelyn’s younger brother, Danny, became hooked on 'The Angel Fairy’s Gift', so did I. I even searched to see if I could purchase a copy online – no luck. It must be a creation of the author's imagination. The novel is skillfully written and quickly draws the reader into both Dr Mary's and Madelyn’s worlds. Being a teacher, I find the story vividly realistic and wonder if there is a measure of biography in this touching novel.
Recommend this book:
Spirit Runner
Richard Ferguson
2018 Silver Medal
324 Pages
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Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite
Spirit Runner by Richard Ferguson is a book that celebrates that indefinable character inside us all, the indomitable human spirit. We meet young seven-year-old Ron Campbell, a promising age-group athlete, who ends up facing the worst that life’s circumstances can throw at him. After losing his entire family in a horrific car crash, Ron is left in hospital, with multiple broken bones and legs that may never be of much use again. The doctors say Ron will struggle to even walk properly again, let alone ever run. Ron’s dream of emulating his father and running for the USA in an Olympic marathon lies shattered in the car wreck that took his family from him. Ron’s grandfather believes in his grandson and sets about to help him rebuild his broken dreams.
Although this book is probably targeted at the teenage and young adult market, I found the universal messages of hard work, dedication, and belief in one’s self to be equally applicable to all ages. The writing is simple and straightforward, which will appeal to the younger set, and there are more than enough adventures and escapades to satisfy any reader who likes a few twists and turns. What I particularly enjoyed about this story was the development of the friendship between Ron, Dovey, and Emil. We watched this grow and flourish over the course of the narrative and it was his friends, more than anything, that helped contribute to Ron having the strength to fight the overwhelming odds against him. What Ferguson has achieved is to show us that with courage, determination, and a will to succeed, anything is possible. I applaud his efforts and his book, Spirit Runner.
Spirit Runner by Richard Ferguson is a book that celebrates that indefinable character inside us all, the indomitable human spirit. We meet young seven-year-old Ron Campbell, a promising age-group athlete, who ends up facing the worst that life’s circumstances can throw at him. After losing his entire family in a horrific car crash, Ron is left in hospital, with multiple broken bones and legs that may never be of much use again. The doctors say Ron will struggle to even walk properly again, let alone ever run. Ron’s dream of emulating his father and running for the USA in an Olympic marathon lies shattered in the car wreck that took his family from him. Ron’s grandfather believes in his grandson and sets about to help him rebuild his broken dreams.
Although this book is probably targeted at the teenage and young adult market, I found the universal messages of hard work, dedication, and belief in one’s self to be equally applicable to all ages. The writing is simple and straightforward, which will appeal to the younger set, and there are more than enough adventures and escapades to satisfy any reader who likes a few twists and turns. What I particularly enjoyed about this story was the development of the friendship between Ron, Dovey, and Emil. We watched this grow and flourish over the course of the narrative and it was his friends, more than anything, that helped contribute to Ron having the strength to fight the overwhelming odds against him. What Ferguson has achieved is to show us that with courage, determination, and a will to succeed, anything is possible. I applaud his efforts and his book, Spirit Runner.
Recommend this book:
Flipping
An Uplifting Novel of Love
Eichin Chang-Lim
2018 Bronze Medal
241 Pages
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Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by K.J. Simmill for Readers' Favorite
JonSun knew from the moment he caught a fleeting glimpse of her that his heart called to the mysterious woman in the library. Vigilantly he returned, hoping to catch sight of her again, and when he did, the unimaginable happened. Despite being far beyond his reach, she agreed to go on a date. Her parents wanted her to marry a doctor, but as time went on she only had eyes for him, and was willing to sacrifice a life of comfort, even her family, to be with him. Her father had told JonSun he would never be good enough. He was determined to prove him wrong, but knew the life he provided was less than she deserved. But this is not just their tale, and theirs is not the only relationship to watch.
Eichin Chang-Lim writes with an amazing talent and gift. In Flipping she takes the stories of two unconnected families and pulls you into their individual stories, their plights, desperation, and struggles, then brings them together. This isn’t just one story, it’s three, the tale of JonSun and SuAnn, the struggles of the McMeri family, and finally the third tale of Wynson and Christa. Each story is part of the whole and is a struggle against the odds. The plot is gripping, emotional, heart-wrenching, and most of all, believable. The writing and characters are filled with such emotion they bring the story to life. Eichin Chang-Lim has an amazingly polished, concise writing style that will tug at the heartstrings from beginning to end. If you enjoy romance, conflict, struggles, and uplifting tales, then this author is one to watch.
JonSun knew from the moment he caught a fleeting glimpse of her that his heart called to the mysterious woman in the library. Vigilantly he returned, hoping to catch sight of her again, and when he did, the unimaginable happened. Despite being far beyond his reach, she agreed to go on a date. Her parents wanted her to marry a doctor, but as time went on she only had eyes for him, and was willing to sacrifice a life of comfort, even her family, to be with him. Her father had told JonSun he would never be good enough. He was determined to prove him wrong, but knew the life he provided was less than she deserved. But this is not just their tale, and theirs is not the only relationship to watch.
Eichin Chang-Lim writes with an amazing talent and gift. In Flipping she takes the stories of two unconnected families and pulls you into their individual stories, their plights, desperation, and struggles, then brings them together. This isn’t just one story, it’s three, the tale of JonSun and SuAnn, the struggles of the McMeri family, and finally the third tale of Wynson and Christa. Each story is part of the whole and is a struggle against the odds. The plot is gripping, emotional, heart-wrenching, and most of all, believable. The writing and characters are filled with such emotion they bring the story to life. Eichin Chang-Lim has an amazingly polished, concise writing style that will tug at the heartstrings from beginning to end. If you enjoy romance, conflict, struggles, and uplifting tales, then this author is one to watch.
Recommend this book:
Paradise Bound
Rafaële Désiré
2018 Honorable Mention
300 Pages
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Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by Ray Simmons for Readers' Favorite
Paradise Bound is one of the most balanced and well written romance novels I have ever read. Not only does Rafaële Désiré know a lot about the Yin and Yang of romance, but she knows a lot about life. The characters are so real you expect them to walk out of the pages and introduce themselves. The protagonist is Dr. Natalie Dorel, a beautiful, strong, caring woman just finishing her residency at a Paris hospital. Never have I seen the spiritual and emotional cost of being a physician written so well. Natalie is brilliant and she has attained her lifelong dream. She has it all, including a good man, so what’s wrong? Rafaële Désiré shows us page by page.
Paradise Bound is all the more impressive because it is Rafaële Désiré’s first novel. I am in awe. I love how the reader is shown the value of art. Like Natalie, a lot of us get caught up in things that are concrete and are expected of us, to such an extent that we neglect the spiritual side. This can be costly and very difficult to understand or correct. Everything in Paradise Bound teaches us the value of life and love. When a story can teach so much and be so entertaining, I consider it a success and I look for that author’s name in my future trips to the book store. Great dialogue, realistic people and situations, and a perfect rendition of the fights, misunderstandings, and hidden fears that come between friends, family, and lovers make Paradise Bound a compelling read. If you love romance, pick it up and start it, one Friday night when you’re not working the next day.
Paradise Bound is one of the most balanced and well written romance novels I have ever read. Not only does Rafaële Désiré know a lot about the Yin and Yang of romance, but she knows a lot about life. The characters are so real you expect them to walk out of the pages and introduce themselves. The protagonist is Dr. Natalie Dorel, a beautiful, strong, caring woman just finishing her residency at a Paris hospital. Never have I seen the spiritual and emotional cost of being a physician written so well. Natalie is brilliant and she has attained her lifelong dream. She has it all, including a good man, so what’s wrong? Rafaële Désiré shows us page by page.
Paradise Bound is all the more impressive because it is Rafaële Désiré’s first novel. I am in awe. I love how the reader is shown the value of art. Like Natalie, a lot of us get caught up in things that are concrete and are expected of us, to such an extent that we neglect the spiritual side. This can be costly and very difficult to understand or correct. Everything in Paradise Bound teaches us the value of life and love. When a story can teach so much and be so entertaining, I consider it a success and I look for that author’s name in my future trips to the book store. Great dialogue, realistic people and situations, and a perfect rendition of the fights, misunderstandings, and hidden fears that come between friends, family, and lovers make Paradise Bound a compelling read. If you love romance, pick it up and start it, one Friday night when you’re not working the next day.
Recommend this book:
The Dragons of Alsace Farm
Laurie Lewis
2018 Gold Medal
376 Pages
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Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by Trudi LoPreto for Readers' Favorite
Noah has hidden from his family and life for ten years and has doubts about returning to his uncle’s home when he receives a request to return as soon as possible. Agnes is the neighbor he visits daily to help with chores. She is fighting with herself and slowly losing the battle to dementia. Tayte is Agnes’ granddaughter and the two have not seen each other for many years. Tayte is headstrong, very organized compared to her grandmother's disregard for order, and afraid of being rejected. As Noah, Agnes and Tayte work together, they face the enormous and impossible task of trying to live with and accept each other with all of their oddities. They have fun days going on picnics, and bad days fighting and feuding. Noah must also deal with his uncle being close to death, reuniting with cousins, and slowly becoming proud of the man he is learning to be.
The Dragons of Alsace Farm by Laurie Lewis is filled with secrets, doubts, redemption, love and forgiveness. The story is about the dragons that lie in our brains and hearts, the events that put them there, and the escape routes to set them free. I could not help but become involved with each character, and cried for their hardships and cheered with them for their happiness. There was much inspiration and faith written into The Dragons of Alsace Farm with great skill. I truly became part of the story, feeling the characters' pain and wanting to offer my advice. The Dragons of Alsace Farm is a thought provoking novel with a plot and characters that make this a fantastic read. I highly recommend this book and can promise that you will not be disappointed.
Noah has hidden from his family and life for ten years and has doubts about returning to his uncle’s home when he receives a request to return as soon as possible. Agnes is the neighbor he visits daily to help with chores. She is fighting with herself and slowly losing the battle to dementia. Tayte is Agnes’ granddaughter and the two have not seen each other for many years. Tayte is headstrong, very organized compared to her grandmother's disregard for order, and afraid of being rejected. As Noah, Agnes and Tayte work together, they face the enormous and impossible task of trying to live with and accept each other with all of their oddities. They have fun days going on picnics, and bad days fighting and feuding. Noah must also deal with his uncle being close to death, reuniting with cousins, and slowly becoming proud of the man he is learning to be.
The Dragons of Alsace Farm by Laurie Lewis is filled with secrets, doubts, redemption, love and forgiveness. The story is about the dragons that lie in our brains and hearts, the events that put them there, and the escape routes to set them free. I could not help but become involved with each character, and cried for their hardships and cheered with them for their happiness. There was much inspiration and faith written into The Dragons of Alsace Farm with great skill. I truly became part of the story, feeling the characters' pain and wanting to offer my advice. The Dragons of Alsace Farm is a thought provoking novel with a plot and characters that make this a fantastic read. I highly recommend this book and can promise that you will not be disappointed.
Recommend this book:
Forever More
A Love Story from the Edge of Eternity
Michele DeLuca
2017 Honorable Mention
319 Pages
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Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
Can one really love a dead man and feel him even more intimately than anyone living? In Forever More: A Love Story from the Edge of Eternity by Michele DeLuca, a mystical experience of love takes place, a love beyond the tomb. Rebecca has loved Sebastian with everything in her, and now the only thing that separates them is death. She’d have thought her feelings would die with his passing away, but a new form of reality unfolds in her. She discovers that they are closer now than ever and that his energy is more deeply felt than when he was alive. His frequent visits are exciting moments for Rebecca, but things change when they decide to use the body of a widower, a retired college professor, Albert, to bring Sebastian to a physical form and allow him to earn his redemption. The three are involved in an exciting experience, but then one of them will have to go? Who would that be?
I was intrigued by the originality of this story and by the idea that drives it. People do keep beautiful memories of those they have loved and lost, but in Forever More: A Love Story from the Edge of Eternity, readers are not just reading about precious memories, they are reading a mystical experience where a dead person maintains a powerful relationship with a living woman. This might not be an altogether strange subject, but many readers can relate to it, thanks to Michele DeLuca’s storytelling skills. The story is told in a compelling narrative voice that makes the reader feel like this story was unfolding before their gaze; the characters are well-crafted and the prose is great. I enjoyed the twist in the story and the complexity of the conflict in an unusual love affair. It was simply brilliant.
Can one really love a dead man and feel him even more intimately than anyone living? In Forever More: A Love Story from the Edge of Eternity by Michele DeLuca, a mystical experience of love takes place, a love beyond the tomb. Rebecca has loved Sebastian with everything in her, and now the only thing that separates them is death. She’d have thought her feelings would die with his passing away, but a new form of reality unfolds in her. She discovers that they are closer now than ever and that his energy is more deeply felt than when he was alive. His frequent visits are exciting moments for Rebecca, but things change when they decide to use the body of a widower, a retired college professor, Albert, to bring Sebastian to a physical form and allow him to earn his redemption. The three are involved in an exciting experience, but then one of them will have to go? Who would that be?
I was intrigued by the originality of this story and by the idea that drives it. People do keep beautiful memories of those they have loved and lost, but in Forever More: A Love Story from the Edge of Eternity, readers are not just reading about precious memories, they are reading a mystical experience where a dead person maintains a powerful relationship with a living woman. This might not be an altogether strange subject, but many readers can relate to it, thanks to Michele DeLuca’s storytelling skills. The story is told in a compelling narrative voice that makes the reader feel like this story was unfolding before their gaze; the characters are well-crafted and the prose is great. I enjoyed the twist in the story and the complexity of the conflict in an unusual love affair. It was simply brilliant.
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