rich2023's reviews
294 reviews

3.0

Mercy's Rain: An Appalachian Novel by Cindy Sproles

dark emotional sad tense

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes

5.0

I like this author’s writing style. This book had me in tears. This book is not an easy read.Mercy went through a lot of heartbreaking circumstances but God in his mercy redeemed her story.
Psalms 40:1-2 fits this story perfectly.

“I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.” (Psalms 40:1-2)

Bitter and Sweet by Rhonda McKnight

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emotional informative reflective

4.0

This was a well written story told from three different point of views. I enjoyed Tabitha’s point of view the most. Sin and repentance wasn’t mentioned when the characters were sinning and acting in ways that didn’t please God. The therapist didn’t point Mariah to obey God and his word. The scriptures were alluded to but not mentioned specifically.
I would like a book 2.
QuotesThat Stood Out To Me
“If we didn’t have pain, how would we grow? What would God use?”
“Great-great grandma Tabitha and I had done the same thing - followed a charming man to painful places because we did not follow the Word.”
“The devil uses shame to hurt us. He likes to get us alone with our thinking. He likes us to think we don’t have choices.”

Land of Silence by Tessa Afshar

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challenging emotional hopeful reflective sad

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Basketball Dreams by Chris Paul

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hopeful informative inspiring

5.0

The Sisters of Sea View by Julie Klassen

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emotional hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

This was a lovely story. I like the character growth of the sisters throughout the story. Each sister needs to trust God I can relate to Sarah because I am the oldest child. God is also teaching me how to let go and trust him with the lives of those I love.

Viola’s relationship with Ms. Denby was so sweet!

I saw God’s sovereignty displayed when Viola had to serve others. This helps her to be more aware of those around her.

Where the Road Bends by Rachel Fordham

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emotional hopeful inspiring reflective

4.0

This was my first time reading a book by Rachel Fordham and she didn’t disappoint. The plot, the characters, etc was superb. God’s sovereignty and redemption are shown throughout the book.

Here is my favorite quote:

“We can have a fresh start, thanks to the good Lord and people who are willing to look beyond our mistakes.”

For a Lifetime by Gabrielle Meyer

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hopeful informative reflective sad

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Gabrielle Meyer has done it again! This was a great read! This book is a great reminder to trust God with your life even if you don’t understand. The ending surprised me because I thought to myself “Oh no, this can’t happen again.” I thought things were going one way but the author took things in a different direction. This book brought in a lot more aspects to this time crosser series. I’m excited to see where the author goes next in this book series.

By Your Side by Kasie West

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emotional reflective