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The Great Dempseys
Brianna MacMahon
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Romance
Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
Brianna MacMahon’s The Great Dempseys is a nuanced tale of ambition, privilege, and identity through the eyes of Audrey Nielsen, a teen thrust right into the middle of Manhattan’s elite. The setting takes readers back to 1980s New York, where Audrey, a scholarship student at the prestigious Great Gray High School, finds herself navigating a starkly different social sphere. Her life intertwines with Bobby Dempsey, heir to one of the nation’s most powerful corporations. Their relationship becomes a microcosm of class disparity and familial expectations, creating a heartfelt and thought-provoking exploration of societal boundaries. However, beneath the glamour and romance, the narrative veers into darker territory, revealing secrets that challenge Audrey and Bobby to define their futures in ways they never imagined.
Brianna MacMahon beautifully sets the tone for The Great Dempseys right away, highlighting Audrey’s complex relationship with her world—her deep bond with her father and her initial resistance to the overwhelming privilege of Great Gray. This richly detailed introduction not only grounds Audrey as a relatable protagonist but also establishes the subthemes of identity and belonging. The characters are meticulously developed, with Audrey’s internal struggles and Bobby’s search for self-determination driving an immersive plot. The pacing alternates between tender, self-reflective moments and sharp, dramatic turns, creating a balance that keeps readers connected and invested. Fans of new adult fiction will find much to admire in The Great Dempseys. Its blend of romance, social commentary, and suspense offers a multi-layered narrative with broad appeal. Brianna MacMahon does a skillful and creative job capturing the intensity of teenage relationships while probing deeper issues of privilege, legacy, and personal freedom, making this a poignant and unforgettable read.
Brianna MacMahon’s The Great Dempseys is a nuanced tale of ambition, privilege, and identity through the eyes of Audrey Nielsen, a teen thrust right into the middle of Manhattan’s elite. The setting takes readers back to 1980s New York, where Audrey, a scholarship student at the prestigious Great Gray High School, finds herself navigating a starkly different social sphere. Her life intertwines with Bobby Dempsey, heir to one of the nation’s most powerful corporations. Their relationship becomes a microcosm of class disparity and familial expectations, creating a heartfelt and thought-provoking exploration of societal boundaries. However, beneath the glamour and romance, the narrative veers into darker territory, revealing secrets that challenge Audrey and Bobby to define their futures in ways they never imagined.
Brianna MacMahon beautifully sets the tone for The Great Dempseys right away, highlighting Audrey’s complex relationship with her world—her deep bond with her father and her initial resistance to the overwhelming privilege of Great Gray. This richly detailed introduction not only grounds Audrey as a relatable protagonist but also establishes the subthemes of identity and belonging. The characters are meticulously developed, with Audrey’s internal struggles and Bobby’s search for self-determination driving an immersive plot. The pacing alternates between tender, self-reflective moments and sharp, dramatic turns, creating a balance that keeps readers connected and invested. Fans of new adult fiction will find much to admire in The Great Dempseys. Its blend of romance, social commentary, and suspense offers a multi-layered narrative with broad appeal. Brianna MacMahon does a skillful and creative job capturing the intensity of teenage relationships while probing deeper issues of privilege, legacy, and personal freedom, making this a poignant and unforgettable read.
Recommend this book:
The Catalyst
Nat Bickel
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Romance
Reviewed by Jefto Pierre for Readers' Favorite
The Catalyst by Nat Bickel is a modern-day young adult romance that unfolds in the Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina. The lead character, Kelynn, has recently graduated from college and is wrestling with anxiety and mysterious blackouts. She uses a magical opal necklace as a coping mechanism. Kelynn's life undergoes a dynamic shift when she meets Clayton. He sincerely cares about her and wants her to succeed in everything she does. Clayton obtains Kelynn's opal necklace and uses it to uncover her innermost secret thoughts and desires. He uses this insight to construct favorable scenarios that enhance Kelynn's confidence. In so doing, he influences her to achieve her dreams. In retrospect, is this completely a blessing or a curse? Will Kelynn eventually learn to stand up on her own two feet?
The Catalyst is a moving and spellbinding novel that explores themes like self-discovery, self-belief, love, and prevailing over personal challenges. It will reverberate deeply with readers, particularly through its descriptive prose and empathetic characters. Nat Bickel has written a captivating tale that examines the intense power of love and devotion as seen through the eyes of its characters. The narrative switches between Kelynn's and Clayton's perspectives, adding acuity and intrigue to their distinct storylines. This dual point of view allows readers to traverse the different aspects of Kelynn's and Clayton's minds and better grasp their motives and reactions to the events unfolding in their relationship. Overall, The Catalyst magnificently captures the experience of falling in love and the hold love has on the people in that relationship. It is an irresistible read, especially for readers who appreciate heartfelt romances that feature its characters overcoming profound life challenges.
The Catalyst by Nat Bickel is a modern-day young adult romance that unfolds in the Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina. The lead character, Kelynn, has recently graduated from college and is wrestling with anxiety and mysterious blackouts. She uses a magical opal necklace as a coping mechanism. Kelynn's life undergoes a dynamic shift when she meets Clayton. He sincerely cares about her and wants her to succeed in everything she does. Clayton obtains Kelynn's opal necklace and uses it to uncover her innermost secret thoughts and desires. He uses this insight to construct favorable scenarios that enhance Kelynn's confidence. In so doing, he influences her to achieve her dreams. In retrospect, is this completely a blessing or a curse? Will Kelynn eventually learn to stand up on her own two feet?
The Catalyst is a moving and spellbinding novel that explores themes like self-discovery, self-belief, love, and prevailing over personal challenges. It will reverberate deeply with readers, particularly through its descriptive prose and empathetic characters. Nat Bickel has written a captivating tale that examines the intense power of love and devotion as seen through the eyes of its characters. The narrative switches between Kelynn's and Clayton's perspectives, adding acuity and intrigue to their distinct storylines. This dual point of view allows readers to traverse the different aspects of Kelynn's and Clayton's minds and better grasp their motives and reactions to the events unfolding in their relationship. Overall, The Catalyst magnificently captures the experience of falling in love and the hold love has on the people in that relationship. It is an irresistible read, especially for readers who appreciate heartfelt romances that feature its characters overcoming profound life challenges.
Recommend this book:
Lily Starling and the Voyage of the Salamander
Second Edition
Christian Hurst
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Sci-Fi
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Lily Starling and the Voyage of the Salamander by Christian Hurst is an exciting YA science fiction novel. Waking up with no memory and only a name tag to guide her, Lily Starling is thrust into a galaxy-spanning conflict in this sweeping sci-fi adventure. Whisked aboard the Salamander by a crew of future space Fleet officers who claim she’s one of their own, Lily must rediscover her past to save the future. Hunted by the psionic Krythar and racing against time to stop a universe-altering weapon, Lily must decide whom to trust: the strangers who call her family or the instincts telling her she’s on her own. With a found family of quirky, battle-worn allies, she journeys across the stars in search of answers, identity, and a destiny she never saw coming.
Author Christian Hurst has a fantastic imagination and a cinematic description style that lends itself to this thrilling blend of space opera, memory mystery, and fierce found-family feelings. I loved the setting of the Salamander and the variety of characters who make up the crew. The attention to detail in their varying attitudes and little idiosyncrasies makes them feel real. This is a sci-fi novel with soul. Lily is a well-developed heroine with plenty of guts who I found myself easily rooting for, but it was also inspiring to watch her learn from those around her and grow from the challenges the plot throws at her. These are numerous and well-timed for great pace and excitement in the adventure, and the looming threat of Krythar was pitched with the right balance between tension and thrill. Overall, Lily Starling and the Voyage of the Salamander is a bold and brilliant read that’s bursting with heart, and I recommend it as an interstellar epic you won’t forget.
Lily Starling and the Voyage of the Salamander by Christian Hurst is an exciting YA science fiction novel. Waking up with no memory and only a name tag to guide her, Lily Starling is thrust into a galaxy-spanning conflict in this sweeping sci-fi adventure. Whisked aboard the Salamander by a crew of future space Fleet officers who claim she’s one of their own, Lily must rediscover her past to save the future. Hunted by the psionic Krythar and racing against time to stop a universe-altering weapon, Lily must decide whom to trust: the strangers who call her family or the instincts telling her she’s on her own. With a found family of quirky, battle-worn allies, she journeys across the stars in search of answers, identity, and a destiny she never saw coming.
Author Christian Hurst has a fantastic imagination and a cinematic description style that lends itself to this thrilling blend of space opera, memory mystery, and fierce found-family feelings. I loved the setting of the Salamander and the variety of characters who make up the crew. The attention to detail in their varying attitudes and little idiosyncrasies makes them feel real. This is a sci-fi novel with soul. Lily is a well-developed heroine with plenty of guts who I found myself easily rooting for, but it was also inspiring to watch her learn from those around her and grow from the challenges the plot throws at her. These are numerous and well-timed for great pace and excitement in the adventure, and the looming threat of Krythar was pitched with the right balance between tension and thrill. Overall, Lily Starling and the Voyage of the Salamander is a bold and brilliant read that’s bursting with heart, and I recommend it as an interstellar epic you won’t forget.
Recommend this book:
The Hennessy Lie
Annette Masters
2025 Gold Medal
314 Pages
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Young Adult - Thriller
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Annette Masters’ novel, The Hennessy Lie, is a unique blend of secrets, deception, and the dangerous quest for truth, set against the backdrop of an atmospheric estate. With a touch of romance, this YA thriller captivates from start to finish. The story follows Piper Covington, a young woman grappling with a haunting family legacy. Raised on her mother’s chilling tales of a monstrous father who died before she was born, Piper’s search for identity takes a treacherous turn when a stranger hints at her connection to the wealthy Hennessy family. Allegations of a hidden fortune and a contested inheritance propel Piper into a dangerous hunt for her father’s elusive will, leading her to confront not only her own fears but also unexpected adversaries—including a captivating yet enigmatic rival.
Annette Masters weaves multiple layers of intrigue, blending Piper’s personal journey with suspense. As Piper digs deeper into the history of the Hennessys, each revelation uncovers a new twist. The author’s pacing adds to the suspense. Piper’s complex relationship with her newfound rival is central to the narrative. The eerie atmosphere and vivid descriptions transport readers into a world where every shadow conceals a potential threat, and every clue leads deeper into a labyrinth of family intrigue. The Hennessy Lie blends suspense, romance, and mystery with skillful storytelling. Readers who enjoy a good mystery that keeps them guessing will want to read The Hennessy Lie. Piper is a likable character, and readers will feel for her and cheer for her as she unravels the mystery of her existence.
Annette Masters’ novel, The Hennessy Lie, is a unique blend of secrets, deception, and the dangerous quest for truth, set against the backdrop of an atmospheric estate. With a touch of romance, this YA thriller captivates from start to finish. The story follows Piper Covington, a young woman grappling with a haunting family legacy. Raised on her mother’s chilling tales of a monstrous father who died before she was born, Piper’s search for identity takes a treacherous turn when a stranger hints at her connection to the wealthy Hennessy family. Allegations of a hidden fortune and a contested inheritance propel Piper into a dangerous hunt for her father’s elusive will, leading her to confront not only her own fears but also unexpected adversaries—including a captivating yet enigmatic rival.
Annette Masters weaves multiple layers of intrigue, blending Piper’s personal journey with suspense. As Piper digs deeper into the history of the Hennessys, each revelation uncovers a new twist. The author’s pacing adds to the suspense. Piper’s complex relationship with her newfound rival is central to the narrative. The eerie atmosphere and vivid descriptions transport readers into a world where every shadow conceals a potential threat, and every clue leads deeper into a labyrinth of family intrigue. The Hennessy Lie blends suspense, romance, and mystery with skillful storytelling. Readers who enjoy a good mystery that keeps them guessing will want to read The Hennessy Lie. Piper is a likable character, and readers will feel for her and cheer for her as she unravels the mystery of her existence.
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The Price of Truth
Michele Clarizio
2025 Finalist
402 Pages
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Young Adult - Thriller
Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
In Michele Clarizio's The Price of Truth, Karis is mourning the loss of her father when everything in her life is suddenly disrupted again. She wakes up injured and confused, unable to remember what happened the night before. The last thing she recalls is having dinner, and then she finds herself in Troy's apartment. Karis had called Troy in tears, her words unclear and jumbled. When Troy seeks help, he encounters CJ, Karis’s stepfather. CJ advises Troy to stay silent about what occurred with Karis and not to contact the police. CJ explains that he and Karis’s mother are leaving for Europe the next day, and her mother would cancel the trip if she learned about Karis's situation. Karis is determined to recover her memory and uncover the truth about that night. Karis believes her healing journey cannot begin until she knows the truth. With the support of her close friends Skylar, Niki, Troy, and Patent, she hopes to uncover the truth.
The Price of Truth by Michele Clarizio captivated me right from the start. The story was packed with nonstop action, and the tension kept me riveted. The writing style was engaging, making it easy to become invested in Karis’s quest for the truth. I found it impossible to put the book down and was flipping through the pages as fast as I could. The characters felt realistic and genuine. They were crafted so well that I had no trouble connecting with several of them immediately. On the other hand, there were also characters that I found quite unlikable. The book was exceptionally well-written and maintained my interest throughout. The conclusion was perfectly fitting, given all that had transpired, and it caught me completely off guard.
In Michele Clarizio's The Price of Truth, Karis is mourning the loss of her father when everything in her life is suddenly disrupted again. She wakes up injured and confused, unable to remember what happened the night before. The last thing she recalls is having dinner, and then she finds herself in Troy's apartment. Karis had called Troy in tears, her words unclear and jumbled. When Troy seeks help, he encounters CJ, Karis’s stepfather. CJ advises Troy to stay silent about what occurred with Karis and not to contact the police. CJ explains that he and Karis’s mother are leaving for Europe the next day, and her mother would cancel the trip if she learned about Karis's situation. Karis is determined to recover her memory and uncover the truth about that night. Karis believes her healing journey cannot begin until she knows the truth. With the support of her close friends Skylar, Niki, Troy, and Patent, she hopes to uncover the truth.
The Price of Truth by Michele Clarizio captivated me right from the start. The story was packed with nonstop action, and the tension kept me riveted. The writing style was engaging, making it easy to become invested in Karis’s quest for the truth. I found it impossible to put the book down and was flipping through the pages as fast as I could. The characters felt realistic and genuine. They were crafted so well that I had no trouble connecting with several of them immediately. On the other hand, there were also characters that I found quite unlikable. The book was exceptionally well-written and maintained my interest throughout. The conclusion was perfectly fitting, given all that had transpired, and it caught me completely off guard.
Recommend this book:
Salvation of the Soul
How Standing Before Christ Can Be Our Most Glorious Moment
James Harman
2025 Gold Medal
106 Pages
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Christian - Devotion/Study
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
In Salvation of the Soul, James Harman explains that salvation includes spirit, soul, and body, linked to past, present, and future events. Harman states that salvation of the spirit is a past event received by faith in Christ’s completed work and is eternally secure. He describes salvation of the soul as an ongoing sanctification of the mind, will, and emotions that requires cooperation with the Holy Spirit and obedience to God’s will. Harman asserts that the salvation of the body is a future event occurring at Christ’s return when believers receive glorified bodies. He emphasizes that salvation of the soul depends on faithful works and perseverance through trials, which lead to rewards at the Judgment Seat of Christ, while salvation of the spirit guarantees eternal life with God.
Salvation of the Soul: How Standing Before Christ Can Be Our Most Glorious Moment by James Harman is a clear, well-written guide on living a faith that produces fruitfulness and obedience. The book emphasizes resisting fleshly desires to receive the Word of God fully and highlights the importance of being “doers of the word” for blessings and salvation of the soul. Harman carefully explains the distinction between salvation of the spirit and salvation of the soul, noting that faith without works leads to barren faith, though the spirit is saved. The author draws on biblical passages such as James, Romans, and Ephesians to illustrate how believers should present themselves as living sacrifices and renew their minds in pursuit of sanctification. This book provides thoughtful biblical instruction that encourages readers to persevere in faith, active through works, ultimately aiming for eternal rewards at the Judgment Seat. Very highly recommended.
In Salvation of the Soul, James Harman explains that salvation includes spirit, soul, and body, linked to past, present, and future events. Harman states that salvation of the spirit is a past event received by faith in Christ’s completed work and is eternally secure. He describes salvation of the soul as an ongoing sanctification of the mind, will, and emotions that requires cooperation with the Holy Spirit and obedience to God’s will. Harman asserts that the salvation of the body is a future event occurring at Christ’s return when believers receive glorified bodies. He emphasizes that salvation of the soul depends on faithful works and perseverance through trials, which lead to rewards at the Judgment Seat of Christ, while salvation of the spirit guarantees eternal life with God.
Salvation of the Soul: How Standing Before Christ Can Be Our Most Glorious Moment by James Harman is a clear, well-written guide on living a faith that produces fruitfulness and obedience. The book emphasizes resisting fleshly desires to receive the Word of God fully and highlights the importance of being “doers of the word” for blessings and salvation of the soul. Harman carefully explains the distinction between salvation of the spirit and salvation of the soul, noting that faith without works leads to barren faith, though the spirit is saved. The author draws on biblical passages such as James, Romans, and Ephesians to illustrate how believers should present themselves as living sacrifices and renew their minds in pursuit of sanctification. This book provides thoughtful biblical instruction that encourages readers to persevere in faith, active through works, ultimately aiming for eternal rewards at the Judgment Seat. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Echoes of the Tomb
M Tobias Harris
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Fantasy/Sci-Fi
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Echoes of the Tomb by M. Tobias Harris is a Christian fantasy and sci-fi novel that explores the profound significance of choice and its lasting impact. The story follows Sword 1-1-8, an elite group of warriors endowed with the power of Choice, as they defend a dilapidated fort from nightmarish creatures and traitorous former allies. Tasked with protecting a mysterious object connected to their king and their ultimate enemy, the team must navigate deadly encounters and profound moral decisions. The author crafts an intense, layered battle narrative that underscores how even the smallest choices can reverberate through eternity. This is a rich and compelling world where faith and fantasy merge seamlessly into an action-packed narrative, and it's a really interesting and innovative way to use Christian themes to craft an exciting novel.
M. Tobias Harris's talent for character development shines through in the complex personalities of the various members of Sword 1-1-8, making their internal struggles as engaging as their external battles, but also using great dialogue exchanges to show their commonalities, bonds, and changing attitudes. I was particularly impressed by his ability to maintain suspense while weaving deeper philosophical questions about choice and moral responsibility into the story. The vivid descriptions and attention to detail in the worldbuilding transport readers completely into a unique universe. What I found most powerful was how Harris managed to explore profound spiritual themes through the lens of intense action sequences, creating moments that stick in readers' minds not just for the great descriptions of the action, but for the message behind them. Overall, Echoes of the Tomb is a masterful blend of Christian themes and fantasy storytelling that will resonate with readers seeking both adventure and spiritual depth, and I'd definitely recommend it.
Echoes of the Tomb by M. Tobias Harris is a Christian fantasy and sci-fi novel that explores the profound significance of choice and its lasting impact. The story follows Sword 1-1-8, an elite group of warriors endowed with the power of Choice, as they defend a dilapidated fort from nightmarish creatures and traitorous former allies. Tasked with protecting a mysterious object connected to their king and their ultimate enemy, the team must navigate deadly encounters and profound moral decisions. The author crafts an intense, layered battle narrative that underscores how even the smallest choices can reverberate through eternity. This is a rich and compelling world where faith and fantasy merge seamlessly into an action-packed narrative, and it's a really interesting and innovative way to use Christian themes to craft an exciting novel.
M. Tobias Harris's talent for character development shines through in the complex personalities of the various members of Sword 1-1-8, making their internal struggles as engaging as their external battles, but also using great dialogue exchanges to show their commonalities, bonds, and changing attitudes. I was particularly impressed by his ability to maintain suspense while weaving deeper philosophical questions about choice and moral responsibility into the story. The vivid descriptions and attention to detail in the worldbuilding transport readers completely into a unique universe. What I found most powerful was how Harris managed to explore profound spiritual themes through the lens of intense action sequences, creating moments that stick in readers' minds not just for the great descriptions of the action, but for the message behind them. Overall, Echoes of the Tomb is a masterful blend of Christian themes and fantasy storytelling that will resonate with readers seeking both adventure and spiritual depth, and I'd definitely recommend it.
Recommend this book:
The Blindsight of Grace
R.A. Williams
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Fiction
Reviewed by Stephanie Lynn for Readers' Favorite
The Blindsight of Grace by R.A. Williams tells the story of a young woman named Grace living in rural Tennessee. Due to an accident as a child resulting in brain damage, Grace Sinclair is blind. An interesting turn of events finds Cody Blevins at her door one day, and that is when the story takes off. The story is rich in culture and has a timeless feel unique to the families and residents of the Appalachian area, offering a taste of down-home living. It is an inspiring tale of budding love and distinctive characters with a hint of mystery that will keep you guessing until the end. Steeped in themes of faith, family, and hope for a brighter future, the simplicity of basic human desires is as old as time. Williams’ skillful storytelling brings out these themes and more in this powerful reminder of what it means to love your neighbor and walk in faith.
The Blindsight of Grace by R.A. Williams took me by surprise and captured my attention from the opening pages. This delightful story has a little of everything and packs a powerful message. Williams has taken a daring approach in putting into words the culture of eastern Tennessee, painting a touching and poignant image of life in rural East Tennessee while also highlighting some of the hidden shadows and struggles faced by the families of the region. This story beautifully and powerfully captures the heart and nature of what it means to be an Appalachian. Many changes and constant fear-mongering on the news can cause a whole host of problems. The story takes that concept on one side and a look at what it is like to live as a blind American on the other, producing a dynamic tale of overcoming and survival, and at what cost. Cody comes into the story as an outsider, only meeting the Sinclairs seemingly by chance at first. As the story continues to play out, we see that he is just the friend Grace needs at the time. The creative approach brings readers along for the ride as they witness the story unfold. I enjoyed this style and learning along with Cody as he seeks to prove what is true and follow God’s calling in his life.
The Blindsight of Grace by R.A. Williams tells the story of a young woman named Grace living in rural Tennessee. Due to an accident as a child resulting in brain damage, Grace Sinclair is blind. An interesting turn of events finds Cody Blevins at her door one day, and that is when the story takes off. The story is rich in culture and has a timeless feel unique to the families and residents of the Appalachian area, offering a taste of down-home living. It is an inspiring tale of budding love and distinctive characters with a hint of mystery that will keep you guessing until the end. Steeped in themes of faith, family, and hope for a brighter future, the simplicity of basic human desires is as old as time. Williams’ skillful storytelling brings out these themes and more in this powerful reminder of what it means to love your neighbor and walk in faith.
The Blindsight of Grace by R.A. Williams took me by surprise and captured my attention from the opening pages. This delightful story has a little of everything and packs a powerful message. Williams has taken a daring approach in putting into words the culture of eastern Tennessee, painting a touching and poignant image of life in rural East Tennessee while also highlighting some of the hidden shadows and struggles faced by the families of the region. This story beautifully and powerfully captures the heart and nature of what it means to be an Appalachian. Many changes and constant fear-mongering on the news can cause a whole host of problems. The story takes that concept on one side and a look at what it is like to live as a blind American on the other, producing a dynamic tale of overcoming and survival, and at what cost. Cody comes into the story as an outsider, only meeting the Sinclairs seemingly by chance at first. As the story continues to play out, we see that he is just the friend Grace needs at the time. The creative approach brings readers along for the ride as they witness the story unfold. I enjoyed this style and learning along with Cody as he seeks to prove what is true and follow God’s calling in his life.
Recommend this book:
The Fire and The Serpent
Book One: Sojourners
Dieta Scheidecker
2025 Finalist
362 Pages
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Christian - Fiction
Reviewed by Jessica Barbosa for Readers' Favorite
Hiking along the trail in the middle of nowhere was an adventure, but not having any significant memories to guide her along the way made it seem more like a punishment. Kenna was in a place of decision; the place of in-between, of what is and what will be. Everyone who came this way was given a choice: to stay and make the journey or not. There are many challenges and dangers, but also great rewards at the end. All were given an invite, but very few were worthy to continue. The Path wasn’t easy, but, ultimately, Kenna decided to walk it. What path will she choose? What truths will she uncover? And where will it all lead her in the end? Read The Fire and The Serpent, Book One: Sojourners by Dieta Scheidecker to find out!
“Is one way good and the other bad?” Throughout her journey, Kenna was constantly thinking of what choice would be the right choice and what path would be the right path to follow. The narrative was so compelling that I was drawn in from the very start. Scheidecker has a gift for crafting a captivating narrative that left me wanting more with every chapter I finished. She breathed life into the characters with her writing, and her creations were the heartbeat of the story. Kenna’s unique perspective put a mysterious spin on the tale that had me flipping the pages faster, wanting to know more, and wondering how this could all end. Overall, Sojourners by Dieta Scheidecker was an absolute page-turner that left its mark on me, and I can’t wait for book two! Exceptional work!
Hiking along the trail in the middle of nowhere was an adventure, but not having any significant memories to guide her along the way made it seem more like a punishment. Kenna was in a place of decision; the place of in-between, of what is and what will be. Everyone who came this way was given a choice: to stay and make the journey or not. There are many challenges and dangers, but also great rewards at the end. All were given an invite, but very few were worthy to continue. The Path wasn’t easy, but, ultimately, Kenna decided to walk it. What path will she choose? What truths will she uncover? And where will it all lead her in the end? Read The Fire and The Serpent, Book One: Sojourners by Dieta Scheidecker to find out!
“Is one way good and the other bad?” Throughout her journey, Kenna was constantly thinking of what choice would be the right choice and what path would be the right path to follow. The narrative was so compelling that I was drawn in from the very start. Scheidecker has a gift for crafting a captivating narrative that left me wanting more with every chapter I finished. She breathed life into the characters with her writing, and her creations were the heartbeat of the story. Kenna’s unique perspective put a mysterious spin on the tale that had me flipping the pages faster, wanting to know more, and wondering how this could all end. Overall, Sojourners by Dieta Scheidecker was an absolute page-turner that left its mark on me, and I can’t wait for book two! Exceptional work!
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/near-the-danube-bridge&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71gxDP0IDDL._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description=Near the Danube Bridge by Catherine Allen-Walters and Elisabeth Hartig Lentulo is a true story that spans multiple generations, capturing the history of families living in the Balkans during the 20th century. It follows Kalman Hartig, a gifted musician and survivor of a labor camp, and Hermina "Minka" Kirchner, a strong-willed girl haunted by child...){kind=link}
Near the Danube Bridge
A Story of Faith, Courage, and Endurance
Catherine Allen-Walters with Elisabeth Hartig Lentulo
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Christian - General
Reviewed by Christian Sia for Readers' Favorite
Near the Danube Bridge by Catherine Allen-Walters and Elisabeth Hartig Lentulo is a true story that spans multiple generations, capturing the history of families living in the Balkans during the 20th century. It follows Kalman Hartig, a gifted musician and survivor of a labor camp, and Hermina "Minka" Kirchner, a strong-willed girl haunted by childhood trauma. Hartig discovered a passion for music at a very young age and eventually joined the Seventh-day Adventist movement, facing persecution under the communist regime, which sentenced him to hard labor for his religious beliefs. Using his knowledge of Bible stories and classical music, he built strength and survived the brutal camps, believing he had proven his faith, only to face new challenges afterward. Alongside his wife Minka, who endured her own childhood hardships, Kalman and their family escaped the regime, facing challenges to start a new life.
Catherine Allen-Walters and Elisabeth Hartig Lentulo captured my heart with their vivid portrayal of war-torn Yugoslavia and the descriptions of the experiences and struggles of Hartig and Hermina. I also enjoyed the stylistic approach that blends meticulous historical research with heartfelt personal anecdotes, delivering an exposé of the diverse cultural landscape of southeastern Europe. Themes of religious faith, perseverance, and moral integrity underpin the narrative, and I marveled at how spiritual conviction sustains individuals through suffering and loss. The detailed descriptions, authentic dialogue, and touching family memories create an intimate and immersive narrative. Near the Danube Bridge is a great read, and the exquisite writing captivated me. This book perfectly combines a family’s journey and an interesting exploration of a historical period.
Near the Danube Bridge by Catherine Allen-Walters and Elisabeth Hartig Lentulo is a true story that spans multiple generations, capturing the history of families living in the Balkans during the 20th century. It follows Kalman Hartig, a gifted musician and survivor of a labor camp, and Hermina "Minka" Kirchner, a strong-willed girl haunted by childhood trauma. Hartig discovered a passion for music at a very young age and eventually joined the Seventh-day Adventist movement, facing persecution under the communist regime, which sentenced him to hard labor for his religious beliefs. Using his knowledge of Bible stories and classical music, he built strength and survived the brutal camps, believing he had proven his faith, only to face new challenges afterward. Alongside his wife Minka, who endured her own childhood hardships, Kalman and their family escaped the regime, facing challenges to start a new life.
Catherine Allen-Walters and Elisabeth Hartig Lentulo captured my heart with their vivid portrayal of war-torn Yugoslavia and the descriptions of the experiences and struggles of Hartig and Hermina. I also enjoyed the stylistic approach that blends meticulous historical research with heartfelt personal anecdotes, delivering an exposé of the diverse cultural landscape of southeastern Europe. Themes of religious faith, perseverance, and moral integrity underpin the narrative, and I marveled at how spiritual conviction sustains individuals through suffering and loss. The detailed descriptions, authentic dialogue, and touching family memories create an intimate and immersive narrative. Near the Danube Bridge is a great read, and the exquisite writing captivated me. This book perfectly combines a family’s journey and an interesting exploration of a historical period.
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