In the Bookcase

9/18/2014

Book Review & Giveaway: A Different Kind of Courage

A Different Kind of Courage A Different Kind of Courage

written by Sarah Holman

266 pages, teen/adult fiction
published in 2014

5 Star Rating 5 Star Rating 5 Star Rating 5 Star Rating 5 Star Rating


My Review...

A man holding mysteries and secrets. Political battles shattering lifelong friends and neighbors in Boston. A new nation collapsing to gain independence. British tea tossed into the harbor. A royal government stifling the cries of its child country... This is the setting for "A Different Kind of Courage".

William Landor, the son of a merchant, has returned to Boston from time spent in England. His family, being Tories, are loyal to the King, and approve of the royal ownership of the colonies. Upon his reentry in 1774, William is shocked at the rifts between neighbors and the political disagreements that could erupt in the most polite of friendly chatter. Boston is not the childhood hometown he grew up in. Especially because his mother isn't there anymore.

While visiting England, William experienced a life quite unlike his own in Boston. Attempting to leave behind traces of this other new-found life when he departed from European shores, he is hoping to renew his father's love and acceptance at home. "A Different Kind of Courage" doesn't just tell you about the events taking place in the late eighteenth century, but immerses the reader there and provides key examples of the emotions and turmoil wrecking the relationship between the colonies and the overruling country.

This is one of the best historical fiction books I've read in a very long time. Sarah Holman does such a good job at including crucial historical details to make the story come alive. She really pulled out deep and extensive research on the topics she wrote of. I cannot stress enough about how much I personally learned about the birth of our country by reading this book; I now understand, in so much more depth, the political views on both the Loyalists and Patriots' sides. Many of the authentic men and women who strove for America's freedom are included in the story. One of my new favorites is featured, Dr. Joseph Warren, along with iconic people such as Paul Revere, Abigail Adams, and even Benedict Arnold, as well as other recognizable names.

One of the main aspects of why I enjoyed this tale so much, is because it also exhibits a profound amount of Christian beliefs. Bible verses are often quoted; coming to understand God better is one of the chief elements of the story. When the characters share religious discussions, they not only talk about their beliefs, but the people themselves are clearly molded by their Christianity.

There is some subtle romance in the story, and although I wasn't expecting this element in this particular book, it truly added strength to the growing plot.

Sarah Holman is a talented writer, and I look forward to reading more of her books. If she were to write a sequel to "A Different Kind of Courage" to continue William's story, I most definitely would enjoy it.

Best recommended for teens and adults.

"The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, but the God of Israel is he that giveth strength and power to his people." (Abigail Adams)



A Special Giveaway...

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Author bio:
Sarah Holman is a not so typical mid-twenties girl: A homeschool graduate, sister to six awesome siblings, and author of five published books and counting. If there is anything adventuresome about her life, it is because she serves a God with a destiny bigger than anything she could have imagined.

Visit the author online!
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Get "A Different Kind of Courage" in ebook or paperback format from Amazon. The ebook is only $3.99 right now!




9/15/2014

Favorite Finds #47

Here's a few things I've found on the web in the last week, which I thought were rather interesting. Enjoy!



Giveaway: Handcrafted Chalcedony Starfish Necklace

{Pixel Berry Pie Designs}

On my Etsy blog, I'm offering this beautiful prize from the CarolesArt shop. Open to US residents. Come enter to win before Sept. 21st!


Why I Love to Read Non-Christian Books

{Challies}

Tim Challies shares a fair view on why a person should read both Christian and secular books for a rounded reading style.


Margaret Atwood's new work will remain unseen for a century

{The Guardian}

Although I'm unfamiliar with this author, the idea of a book being 100 years old before it's ever read... now, that's intriguing!


The Moral of the Story is…

{J. Grace Pennington}

A great post on including themes and messages in your stories/writings.



9/11/2014

Book Review: Cave Secrets of the Pterodactyl

Cave Secrets of the Pterodactyl Cave Secrets of the Pterodactyl

written by Lydia Howe
Creation Quest series

68 pages, children's fiction
published in 2013

5 Star Rating 5 Star Rating 5 Star Rating 5 Star Rating 5 Star Rating


Want to go spelunking and explore the Anderson Caverns to discover eye-opening truths about Creation?

My new favorite vocabulary word, by the way (courtesy of this book) is Spelunking, which means: the exploration of caves, especially as a hobby.

"Cave Secrets of the Pterodactyl" features fascinating information about the details found in Genesis, and the facts of Creation that we believe in as Christians. The characters demonstrate in an easy manner, perfect for kids: "The Bible is the history book of the universe."

The main character telling the story is Lydia Davis, daughter of an explorer. She and her family are discovering and considering the wonderful works of the Almighty, as they share about it with others too. They even come across a mystery at a bookstore to figure out, which leads to more biblical truths.

Deep underground in Utah, Buddy Davis, his accompanying friend, and their guide are searching the walls for petroglyphs as clues to Creation. Their adventure is fun to follow along with; their conversations regarding a creationist's and evolutionist's way of thinking are discussed... and triumphed. Their debates clearly show readers the differences between the scientific theories, while illustrating that God truly reigns.

I love this first installment of the Creation Quest series, and truly hope that Miss Howe continues writing more. I think families with young children will especially enjoy this book. (Oh, and the sketched pictures spread throughout the book add great quality to the story!)

The things I like best about "Cave Secrets of the Pterodactyl" include that it creates an absorbing adventure, shares the authenticity of God's Word, and ignites powerful topics to use as discussions about the Bible.

About the Author: Whether she's building life-sized models of dinosaurs with her adopted family, trying her hand at cooking at a private retreat, or living in a barn, author Aidyl Ewoh (aka Lydia Howe) seems to have adventures follow her wherever she goes. Check out her book, Cave Secrets of the Pterodactyl and find out more about her at her Blog, Facebook, and Twitter.

About the Book: Cave Secrets of the Pterodactyl
Traveling with her parents brings Lydia, daughter of explorer and singer Buddy Davis, plenty of adventure and mystery - from hidden clues in bookstores to cave paintings deep underground.



9/05/2014

Favorite Finds #46


Laura Ingalls Wilder memoir reveals truth behind Little House on the Prairie

{The Guardian}

YES! Mrs. Wilder's actual memoir is finally getting published!


Circle C & Goldtown Short-Story Writing Contest 2014

{Andi's Blog}

Author, Susan K. Marlow is hosting a writing contest (with great prizes!). Open to writers under 18.


Flourless Peanut Butter-Chocolate Cookies

{Real Girls, Real Faith}

Don't these cookies look absolutely AMAZING?


Fix My Eyes

{A Northern Belle}

A thoughtful post... "God my God let mercy sing her melody over me..."