Branwen's Quest by Kaetlyn Buxton

Young Branwen, filled with guilt from her past and dreading her future, is summoned by the royal herald for a Tournament of Warriors. A talented archer; she wins her discipline and is sent on a dangerous quest with 3 other champions. The implications of the success of their journey affect the welfare of the kingdom!

I really enjoyed this book. The characters were relatable and I connected with them early on. There was tension and conflict and twists along their quest that drove the plot and character development along.

Kids will love this book. This will be an epic journey for them. I find kids want to dream and be part of a larger story. They want to go on a quest. And this story will connect with kids like that.

I think 10 years old would be a good starter age to read this book. I also think it’d be a great book for parents to read aloud to their children.

As a twenty-something guy; I enjoyed sitting down and reading this book. Kids will enjoy it even more.

* The author offered a free download of this book. This is my honest review. No compensation was received. *

About the author:

Born, raised, and homeschooled in Oregon, Katelyn Buxton has always been a storyteller, picking up writing during her early teen years. When she graduated high school, her love of the craft finally culminated in the publishing of her first eBook, a standalone adventure, Tè Nan Lezar. Since then she has published seven more books belonging to the Warriors of Aralan series, with many more on the way. Katelyn is a Christian, and her passion is to write stories that are not just enjoyable to read, but lead people to Jesus. 

You can learn more about Kaetlyn by visiting the following links:

Personal website

Goodreads

Twitter

Amazon

Quest for Celestia by Steven James

Quest for Celestia is a fascinating and highly motivating book. The book is a re-imagining of The Pilgrims’ Progress by John Bunyan, and thus an allegory of the Christian life.

The story is a compelling one taking place in a unique setting with plenty of surprises along the way. It’s a journey filled with high stakes action, humor, healthy romance, and lessons for all ages.

Though the story stands on its own, it’s a million times deeper with the allegory.

The first time I read the book, I will admit that I made the mistake of focusing too much on the allegory. I was so focused on trying to find the meaning of every scene, that I actually missed who the the allegorical representation of Christ was. I see how other readers could make the same mistake I made, and that’s why I included my experience in the review.

My advice on how to read this book is the advice of Leland Ryken. To quote him; “We will fare just fine with Bunyan’s allegorical story if we read it as a travel story and adventure story first, and then allow the theological and moral level to emerge as an extra source of enjoyment and edification.”

Despite my mix-up, I thoroughly enjoyed reading the book my first time through, and much more on my second time. It was deeper and more clear the second time for me.

This is a book I will continue to read in the years to come. There are truths and principles in this book to review and come back to.

I would definitely recommend this book to fans of young adult fiction, fantasy, and to Christians of any age.

About the author:
Steven James is a national bestselling novelist whose award-winning, pulse-pounding thrillers continue to gain wide critical acclaim and a growing fan base.

Suspense Magazine, who named Steven’s book THE BISHOP their Book of the Year, says that he “sets the new standard in suspense writing.” Publishers Weekly calls him a “master storyteller at the peak of his game.” And RT Book Reviews promises, “the nail-biting suspense will rivet you.”

Equipped with a unique Master’s Degree in Storytelling, Steven has taught writing and storytelling on four continents over the past two decades, speaking more than two thousand times at events spanning the globe.

If you want to learn more about Steven, feel free to check out his website: http://www.stevenjames.net/

Maybe It's You by Candace Calvert

“Maybe It’s You,” is a romantic suspense novel, and the third book in the Crisis Team series by author Candace Calvert. I have not read the previous 2 books, but can say that I enjoyed this one very much.

Sloane Ferrell is an ER nurse, and is seeking to have a fresh start in life with her new job and name in Los Angeles. Anonymity is of utmost importance to Sloane, and she does whatever she can to keep people at a safe distance; and more importantly: to keep her past as far away as possible.

Each time I sat down to read this novel; I was always excited to see what would happen. The characters are likeable, there’s plenty of conflict, lots of tension, an honest romance, and many twists and turns that’ll keep you reading.

The story took a lot of time to set-up and perhaps didn’t have the major payoff ending I anticipated, but there were plenty of lessons and takeaways from reading; particularly on God’s love, grace, and forgiveness.

I enjoyed this novel and know that many others will as well.

Candace Calvert is a former ER nurse and author of the Mercy Hospital, Grace Medical, and Crisis Team series. Her medical dramas offer readers a chance to "scrub in" on the exciting world of emergency medicine. Wife, mother, and very proud grandmother, Candace makes her home in northern California. Please visit her website at www.candacecalvert.com.

*Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book. The review was my honest opinion. No compensation was received.*

Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls

Synopsis:

A loving threesome, they ranged the dark hills and river bottoms of Cherokee country. Old Dan had the brawn, Little Ann had the brains -- and Billy had the will to train them to be the finest hunting team in the valley. Glory and victory were coming to them, but sadness waited too.

Recommended for ages 10+.

Product description; Christianbook.com

What did I think?

Where the Red Fern Grows was one of the first novels read to me; and was immediately a favorite. Years later, I am still impressed by the story.

Not only am I impressed by the story, but I am more impressed with how faith in God is included in this novel. I never took notice of Billy Colman’s prayers or the prayers of his mama the first time it was read to me.

I believe this book is best if it is read by a parent to their children over a long period of time. I don’t find it’s a typical novel that makes you flip page after page, but you are still interested to see how the story will play out. A chapter a day with your kids could be just great.

There are great lessons in this book for people of all ages. It’s possible some people won’t be interested in the middle of the book where we see Billy’s hunting adventures, but if  a kid’s parent is reading the book; they’ll enjoy it. 

There are lessons that will last for life. What an endearing story it is.

Author:

Wilson Rawls grew up on a small farm in the Ozark Mountains of Oklahoma. There were no schools where he lived so his mother taught Rawls and his sisters how to read and write. He says that reading the book The Call of the Wild changed his life and gave him the notion that he would like to grow up to write a book like it. He shared his dream with his father, and his father gave him the encouraging advice, "Son, a man can do anything he sets out to do, if he doesn't give up." Rawls never forgot his father's words, and went on to create two novels about his boyhood that have become modern classics.

You can buy Where the Red Fern Grows at Christianbook.com

Rebel Glory by Sigmund Brouwer

Synopsis:

At 17, star defenseman Craig McElhaney likes his chances of making it as a pro hockey player. Yet, a string of recent "accidents" threatens to knock his team out of the playoffs and ruin his promising career. Craig has begun to question how many "accidents" can happen before they become more than a coincidence. But it's not a good time for questions. Not in the spotlight of high-pressure hockey. Not when the team needs him most. And not when he has some important lessons to learn about life. For Craig, however, there is no choice. Unless the questions are answered, the team's season and his promising career will surely end.

Product description; Orca Books.

What did I think?

I remember reading Rebel Glory when I was in elementary school and doing my first ever book report on it. It was a great book that contributed to my love for reading. 

As a kid I focused on the hockey aspect of the book a lot, but realize now that the mystery in the book was very captivating.

I highly recommend this book to your hockey loving kids.

About the author:

Sigmund is married to songwriter recording artist Cindy Morgan. The couple and their two young daughters divide their time between Red Deer, Alberta and Nashville, Tennessee. As a novelist, Sigmund loves going to schools to get kids excited about reading, reaching roughly 80,000 students a year through his Rock&Roll Literacy Show.

If you want to learn more about Sigmund, check out his website.

Chief Honor by Sigmund Brouwer

Synopsis:

Lauren Cross is the first female player on a WHL team—goaltender Joseph Larken's team, the Spokane Chiefs. For Joseph, the prospect of a season in the publicity shadow of a new female goalie promises to be a nightmare. Hiding behind a carefully built wall of anger, Joseph is relieved when a scandal knocks Lauren off the team until he begins to believe she was framed. 

Product description; Orca Books.

What did I think?

Chief Honor might’ve been my favorite book growing up. Any young hockey player would love this book (along with the rest of the Lightning on Ice series).

You will be entertained by some hockey action, and quite the mystery that must be solved. Brouwer does a great job integrating back story into this book, and also has some great, non-preachy points on faith.

I highly recommend this book to your hockey loving kids. I’m an adult and I still enjoy reading this book. It’s truly a great read.

About the author:

Sigmund is married to songwriter recording artist Cindy Morgan. The couple and their two young daughters divide their time between Red Deer, Alberta and Nashville, Tennessee. As a novelist, Sigmund loves going to schools to get kids excited about reading, reaching roughly 80,000 students a year through his Rock&Roll Literacy Show.

If you want to learn more about Sigmund, check out his website.

The Rook by Steven James

Setup:

“While investigating a series of baffling fires in Dan Diego, Special Agent Patrick Bowers is drawn into a deadly web of intrigue where nothing is as it appears to be. With a character on the loose and one of the world’s most deadly devices missing, Bowers is caught in a race against time to stop a criminal mastermind’s trap before it closes around the people he loves.”        The Rook, Steven James, back cover

What did I think?

The Rook, was a good follow up to author Steven James’ first book in this series, The Pawn.

It’s amazing how James keeps you on the edge of your seat for the entire novel. I couldn’t put it down, and kept flipping pages into the late hours of the night.

It’s such an interesting mystery, but we see the personal struggles of Special Agent Patrick Bowers, and other characters throughout the novel.

A lot of truth is spoken in this book, to go along with a lot of big questions being asked by the characters. It might make you think about some questions in your own life.

The Rook, was engaging, intriguing, and exciting. James put a lot of work into this novel, and if you’re a fan of suspense, thriller, or mystery novels; this one is for you.

Rating: 8.3 out of 10

 Steven James is a critically acclaimed author and award-winning storyteller. He has written many collections of short fiction, scripts, and inspirational books that explore the paradox of good and evil. 

To find out more about James, please visit http://www.stevenjames.net/

The Pawn by Steven James

Setup:

“Called to North Carolina to consult on the case of an area serial killer, Bowers finds himself caught in a deadly game of cat and mouse. Cunning and lethal, the killer is always one step ahead of the law, and he’s about to strike again. It will take all of Bower’s instincts and training to stop the man who calls himself the Illusionist.” The Pawn, Steven James, Back cover.

Violence, sex, drugs, other:

• The book deals with mature themes and wouldn’t target people before their teens.
• One character cuts their wrists.
• No foul language.
• Romance interest, but no sexuality.
• Gruesome crimes discussed.

What did I think?

The Pawn, was a great read and wild ride. Author Steven James does a great job keeping the reader guessing at each step of the way. Whenever you think you have something figured out, another layer to the character and story is revealed.

Special Agent Patrick Bowers of the FBI is up for a big challenge in this novel.

James is very persistent in his writing, and creates a realistic and intriguing plot that’ll keep you flipping pages.

I enjoyed this novel, and was interested to see where James might take the series.

Rating: 9 out of 10

Steven James is a critically acclaimed author and award-winning storyteller. He has written many collections of short fiction, scripts, and inspirational books that explore the paradox of good and evil. 

To find out more about James, please visit http://www.stevenjames.net/