Bite Marks, by Drew Cross

Shane is a cop, so you would think he is a model citizen, totally square.  But what none of his fellow officers realize is that Shane is deeply entrenched not only in the goth subculture, but in the world of blood fetishism.  So, when women start being attacked and bitten by a would be vampire, Shane has very personal reasons for wanting to solve the crime.

This book what not at all what I expected.  With a name like this, I expected a run of the mill supernaturally inspired vampire book.  What I got was an eye opening crime thriller where the monsters are frighteningly real.  The book is a honest look into some of the darker subcultures that abound, including the goth scene, blood fetishism, prostitution, and crime.  I was positively hypnotized.

In some ways, although this book is not what would classically considered horror, this was one of the scariest books I have read.  Scary because you know people like this exist in the world, that crimes like this happen all the time, and that this is probably just the tip of the iceberg.

I really enjoyed the character of Shane, and watching his internal struggle between darkness and light.  While not the villain of the story, there certainly are dark elements to him, as there are in all of us, and I love that the author is unapologetic in regards to this darkness.  That is what made Shane's character seem so real.

All in all, I loved the book, and think a lot of readers of the crime/thriller/suspense genres will enjoy it as well. As a huge fan of classic vamp stories, I recommend readers of that genre read it as well, to get another picture of what vampires can look like, without all the supernatural trappings.



I received a review copy courtesy of the publisher.

(Just like) El Cid's Bloomers, by Tim Roux

Jake is an estate agent by day, local rock star by night.  When his wife kicks him out of their home, he takes up with a teenage groupie named Jade.  While not exactly happy with his life, he is.... making due.  But when Jade announces she is pregnant, his wife decides she might want him back, and a record label just might want to make him a star, his meager existence is turned on its head.

Tim Roux has woven a delightful tale of rock and roll, and I loved every minute of it.  I loved Jake's story, both learning about his present situation, and the past that led up to it.  I felt like the characters in this book were real and very relatable.

The book was very funny, but it was a wry, snarky sense of humor (my favorite kind), so some readers may have a difficult time relating at first.  As an American, I did not get all of the British references in the book, but that did not in any way detract from my enjoyment of the book.  All in all, I found the book incredibly entertaining.  Anyone who loves rock and roll is sure to feel the same.



I received a review copy of the book courtesy of the author.

Strangers on a Bus, by Robblogger

When his girlfriend kicks him out, Rob decides to board a bus traveling from New York to Canada, and to document his adventures.  Never did he imagine he would meet an interesting woman he dubs Gertrude, forming a bond that surprised even him.  But what happens when her stop comes up?

If ever you are having a bad day, and need something to make you smile, this book is just the thing.  Not only did this book make me laugh out loud, it warmed my heart.  The majority of the book is intended to be humorous, but there are parts that really show a more tender side of our author, Rob.  I loved getting that glimpse of a softer, fluffier version of that sharp, biting wit.

I loved watching the relationship between Rob and Gertrude blossom.  They had a real connection, and the writing reflects that.  It is full of honesty and heart, as well as hearty laughter.  A brilliant follow up to his first book, Rob shows how truly talented he is.

Trust me, this book is sure to put a smile on your face.



I received a review copy courtesy of the author.

The Summoner, by Layton Green

When an American diplomat goes missing in Zimbabwe, Dominic Grey is put on the case.  Ever a man of facts and science, Grey has a hard time believing the story behind the diplomat's disappearance during a tribal religious ceremony.  It would seem that the man disappeared into thin air.  As Grey and his colleagues delve deeper into the world of Africa's different cultures and religions, Grey finds himself struggling with logic, as well as with his heart.

Wow.  This book, it packs a walloping punch.  There were times when I myself was not sure who or what to trust, including my own reasoning.  I can only imagine Grey felt the same way.  What a truly original story this was.  I was immediately drawn into the story and setting.  Although the story is set in a culture with which I am unfamiliar, the writing is so vivid, I was easily transported to Africa.  I was fascinated by the Juju religion as described in the book, and more than a little frightened.

I really thought the plot and the characters were extremely well developed.  I had no idea who the villain was until Green was ready to reveal it, and I love that.  I like being fooled by red herrings every now and then, and this book certainly had me fooled.

This is the first book in a series starring Dominic Grey.  I can't wait to see what he gets himself into next.


I received a review copy courtesy of the author.

MacArthur, America's General, by Mitchell Yockelson

At times, MacArthur was the most popular man in America, and at times the least.  But there is no disputing he was dedicated to serving this country, and dedicated to the military.  Having come from a famous military family, everyone expected success from young Douglas.  But they got was more than success, it was excellence.

So, I am not really all that interested in the military, but I received this book in error, so I decided to go ahead and read it.  I am supremely glad I did.  It seemed like in high school history classes, we never got past WW I, or if we really pushed it, WW II.  I was happy that this book covered some areas of American history with which I was unfamiliar.

Also I liked that this book touched on MacArthur's personal life, both in his youth and his elder years.  Students certainly never hear a lot of personal information about historical figures, so this was pretty refreshing.

As I mentioned, I am not all that into military books or military history, but for someone who is, I think this book would be a great addition to their library.  Similarly, this would be great for a high school student or home school student to use to supplement history curriculum.  It was not a difficult book to read, which would make it a good fit for high school readers.

I received a review copy of this book courtesy of the publisher.

Slate, by Brian Rowe

Vivien is a successful Hollywood casting director.  With a son starting to dabble in acting, and a successful dentist for a husband, it would seem her life is picture perfect.  However, when she finds out her husband is cheating on her, revenge is the only thing on her mind.  She must find a way to get back at him, and regain her confidence, no matter who she steps on in the process.

This book was a bit confusing to me.  For the majority of the time, it was a mostly sex, not even enough romance to justify calling it a romance novel, just sex.  Then, toward the end the romance creeps in, and you start feeling the vibe, and them WHAM you are sideswiped by overt violence.  It is was so, in a word, Hollywood.

I liked the character of Vivien a lot, most of the time, but there were times, usually when the writing became sexually graphic, that I felt she seemed, well, out of character.  It made for a very bipolar effect for me.  I loved the idea of her casting men of various ages to scope out the goods.  The whole "cougar" phenomenon is still pretty hot right now, so the fact that she was checking out younger men was actually pretty believable.

I was certainly more interested in what happened in Vivien's office than in her personal life.  I loved the various characters around the office, and in some ways I saw them as more her family than her real family was, something many working professionals experience.  The twist at the end made me see how important that office family really was to her.

I am not one for sexually gratuitous novels, so in a lot of ways, this book was not a good fit for me, but for those readers who just cannot get enough heat, this book is sure to singe your fingertips.



I received a review copy of this book courtesy of the author.

Giveaway Winner

I am excited to announce the winner of the Johnny One Eye giveaway.

Congratulations to

Kimberly

I have given your information to the publisher, and they will be sending the book soon.

Thanks to all who entered!

The Oriental Wife, by Evelyn Toynton

Louisa and Rolfe grew up childhood friends in Germany.  When the winds of war began to once again blow, Louisa's parents encouraged her to travel abroad.  Through a series of events and relationships, she ended up in America, where she was reunited with her childhood friends.  They married, and life seemed blissful, until an unfortunate mistake during  surgery forever changed Louisa's life.

I have to say, I am a bit disappointed in this book.  While the description of the book never told anything untrue, it certainly did not paint a completely accurate picture of the book.  I am an avid fan of World War II fiction, so setting coupled with the description really appealed to me.

I thought the development of the characters was good in the first half of the book.  I loved learning Louisa's story, and hearing about her travels.  But the second half of the book just seemed lacking.  We make a huge jump from Emma (Louisa's daughter)'s childhood to her adulthood without getting a real sense of Emma as a character.  And the arc about her sleeping with her Asian boss was just, well, unnecessary, I found.  I am sure it was meant to show something about Emma's character, but to me, it was just distracting.

Overall, I found the book to be a bit on the boring side.  I was not able to really engage with the characters enough to have much of a vested interest in the book.




I received this book as part of the Amazon Vine review program.

Ghellow Road, by T.H. Waters

Theresa had a very unique childhood.  The first few years seemed picture perfect, until Mommy started having some troubles.  Mommy was in and out of hospitals a lot, and the strain took its toll on the family.  Bit by bit the picture perfect life unraveled, and by the time Theresa was in high school, her life and family was nothing like it was just a few years before.  Yet thanks to the influence of caring adults and supporting friends, Theresa finds a way to move forward and prosper.

Once again, I find myself asking why there are not more books like this out there?  Mental illnesses affect more that just the person diagnosed, and this book is a perfect example of how.  This is a story that is both heartbreaking and heartwarming.

Waters bravely talks about her life in a way that really lets the readers see the unfolding of events.  In the beginning, you can not even tell anything is wrong.  By the end, you are amazed anything is right.  Bravo to Waters for baring her soul, and painting an honest picture of what life is like for the child of a schizophrenic.  I love the fact that we get to see Theresa's anger at her mother, and the mother's apparent lack of understanding as to why she might be angry.

This is a book that can provide such hope to children dealing with mental illness within their family system.  I think this would be a great book for therapists to recommend to young adults with mentally ill parents, to help show them that even when they do not look like a happy tv sitcom family, they can still live happy, meaningful lives.  I have the utmost respect for Waters, for sharing her story and empowering so many others to hopefully do the same.



I received a review copy courtesy of the author.

The One Day Way, by Chantel Parrish Hobbs

Are you ready to change your life?  Well prepare to do it, one step, one day at a time.  This method of weight loss and lifestyle change allows you the freedom to forget the mistakes you may have made yesterday, and focus on what you can do today to help you advance to your goal weight.  The key is to start by changing the way you think, then changing the way you act.  With words of encouragement, easy sample meal plans, and sample exercises, you have all you need to start the journey to the new you.

I have never read a weight loss book before, so I cannot say if this book is like all the others out there, but I can tell you, in terms of the nutritional and fitness suggestions and aspects of the plan, there is nothing new here.  I think people just look for a magical, easy solution, when it all comes down to burning more calories than you consume.  But that is hard work, which most people do not want to do.

What I did find refreshing and unique was the aspect of faith (not religion, but faith) into the program.  And a lot of the things in the book from a faith perspective were really encouraging.  It is nice to have a plan focus on the fact that no matter what, if you mess up, tomorrow is a new day to try to do better.  The plan does not focus on beating yourself up when you are imperfect.

All in all, a book filled with encouraging words, but not too many fresh ideas in terms of diet and exercise.


I received a copy of this book courtesy of the publisher.

Jewel of Persia, by Roseanna M. White

When Xerxes, King of Persia, calls you to be his wife, you do not say no.  Not even if you are a Jew.  Kasia is just a teenager when she weds Xerxes, but she quickly wins his heart and devotion, much to the chagrin of the Queen and Haman.  Kasia accompanies him to war, but their love may be his downfall.  After years of prayer to Jehovah for the protection of her husband as well as her people, Kasia finds the Jews' salvation in her childhood friend, Esther.  Esther is chosen to be the Queen of Persia, and her role in history will never be forgotten, thanks to the love that Kasia has for her friend, as well as the love she has for her husband.

Knowing what a phenomenal writer Roseanna is, I was on the edge of my seat waiting to read this book.  And once I started, I just could not stop.  Once again, Roseanna has made history come alive, and awakened a Biblical story in ways I would never have imagined.

I would have thought that reading a romance about a man with so many wives would feel contradictory, but it really did not.  The characters were developed so clearly, you knew each woman's place in Xerxes' life.  And the story was no less romantic than had Kasia been his only bride.  I know that Xerxes is a bloody ruler, but somehow, Roseanna has made him somewhat endearing.  She does not sugar coat the fierceness of his personality, nor the often cruel and violent things he did, but through his love of Kasia, we see a softer side of him. 

The book is highly spiritual, as many members of its cast of characters rely on blind faith, even when it makes no sense.  The story stands as a lesson for Christian readers to have that same kind of faith.  However, because this is a story of the salvation of the Jews in the Persian kingdom, it will likely appeal to Jewish readers as well.  The historical aspect will also appeal to fans of historical fiction.  And it would be perfect reading for a book club as well, since it will appeal to so many different kinds of readers.

The book is beautiful, and flows like a piece of music.  The setting is so rich, I almost envisioned a lavish Broadway production in my mind as I read it.  This is certain to be yet another success for Roseanna.

I received a review copy courtesy of the author.

Washington: A Legacy of Leadership, by Paul Vickery

Sure you know that George Washington helped lead troops to victory in both the French and Indian War and the Revolutionary War.  Yes, you know that he was also our first president, and many would argue the father of our country.  But do you know what led to all these victories?  Do you know about loves lost, and bitter defeats, lessons hard learned, and the incredible personal risks he took in battle?  If not, you shall.

I have to admit, I am not one much for historical biographies, but having just read some works of fiction set in the Revolutionary War, I decided this book would be interesting to me.  And was it ever.  First, I have to say that I was fascinated by the early portions of the book, which focused on the French and Indian War.  Having lived in both Ohio and Pennsylvania, many of the battles mentioned took place in settings which are familiar to me.  And while I learned about some of it way back in 7th grade, this book served not only as a good refresher, but as a wonderful addendum to the things I had learned.  Similarly, with the rest of the historical information in the book, I was able to recall the facts I knew, and supplement with ones I did not know.

The only thing I had hoped for was a bit more personal information about Washington, a look at the human side of the story.  I suppose it is difficult to write that, as I am sure history recorded very little of this information.  Sure, facts are given, but I really longed for some little anecdotes.  I suppose when going back to this point in history, those are few and far between.

This book is a perfect book for someone interested in history, whether their passion be military, political, or just general history.  It would even serve well for young adult readers looking to supplement their studies, or additions to home schooling curriculum.  All in all, a nice read that helped me expand my knowledge.


I received a review copy of the book courtesy of the publisher.

The Arrival, by Nicole MacDonald

Four women, Cat, Laura, Kassi, and Sian, are all trained in various forms of combat.  They think their training us just for hobby and fitness, but when they cast a spell that transports them to another place, they realize that training just may be a part of their destiny.  They also realize that some things they thought were just fantasy now may become reality.  But is this reality their new home, or just a temporary?

Recently, I have started getting more interested in paranormal and/or fantasy fiction.  But this book reminds me of why I was not a fan for so long.  The plot just seemed a little bizarre, beyond the typically needed suspension of disbelief for this genre.  The book is basically a romance novel, set in fantasy land.  It just did not click with me.

The character development was ok, but for some reason, the author decided to sometimes use the proper names for characters, and sometimes use nicknames that, to an American reader, did not always correlate.  For example Loi and Laura are the same person, but this is not explained for the first third of the book.  I am not sure if this is a common diminutive used for the name Laura in New Zealand, where the author lives, but to American readers, it will be confusing.  Also, the author uses the common practice of switching narrative points of view.  Most books do the switch at the chapter change, or at least have a break in the story.  This author chooses to do it within the same scene, with no break, and the result is very jerky.  Switching from first person point of view to third person point of view made me feel like there was a 5th character I was unaware of.

In terms of the storyline, it is a good quest based story.  Those fond of paranormal romance will most likely enjoy the story, but for me it just did not click.



I received a review copy courtesy of the author.

Get Up and Walk, by Jewels Staiger

Throughout her life, Julie has been a woman on tremendous faith.  As a child, she felt called to marriage, and felt sure she was meant to be a pastor's wife, as well as a mother.  Time and again in her life, Julie has seen God work in powerful and real ways.  He helped her realize her dream of being a wife and mother, and helped carry her through the toughest times in her life.  And each time life knocked her down, He helped her get up and walk.

I just cannot say enough great things about this book.  As I have mentioned in the past, memoirs are some of my favorite books to read, and this is a memoir with a message.  The message is one of hope and inspiration, and one I think could benefit so many readers.

Julie, aka Jewels, has a way of writing that is so down to earth and real.  While she makes no secret of the fact that she is a Christian, she also brings such humanity to her story.  It helps to reinforce the fact that Christians can have doubts, or setbacks, or be angry, and it does not make them any less Christian.  In fact, it makes them open to even more growth and even deeper faith.

I loved reading about some of the poignant moments in Julie's life, particularly when she discussed the heartbreak of being single; I found myself able to relate to a lot of the things she talked about in the book, even if her life circumstances were different from mine.  And I loved that her expressions of faith were genuine, yet not pushy or over evangelical.  Each chapter has a segment at the end called Faith Walk which allows readers to apply some of that chapter's themes and ideas to a specific Bible passage.

All in all, I just thought this was a tremendous book.  While it will obviously appeal to Christian readers, I think it has to potential to be empowering and inspiring to mainstream readers as well.  It would make a great gift for someone who is struggling with life circumstances.  It would also make a perfect book for a small group or church book club.



I received a review copy of the book courtesy of the publisher.

Pat the Zombie, by Aaron Xim and Kaveh Soofi

Paul and Judy can survive a lot of things, things you probably would never survive.  In this spoof of a classic childrens' book, you get to experience Paul and Judy's zombified world, including checking yourself for infection, playing peek a book with Paul, and feeling Daddy's putrefying flesh.  Most certainly not a book for kids.

Since I have been reviewing mostly standard novels recently, I wanted to mix things up a bit, and this book was the perfect choice.  I personally love spoof and satire, so this book cracked me up.  Designed to look nearly identical to the classic "Pat the Bunny" books, this is not for those with no sense of humor.  It is most definitely kind of gross, but funny.

I was amazed at how similar this book was to the original kids' book.  The typography and drawings are spot on, and the cover and packaging is identical (with the exception of some blood spatter).  The book is a short read, but well worth it none the less.  For anyone who loves zombies, or a zombie book collector, this book is a must have.  Sometimes zombie humor is done in a half-hearted way, and sometimes it is done perfectly.  I think this book is a grand slam.  I great gift idea for the zombie expert in your life.


This book was borrowed for the purposes of this review.

After the Cross, by Brandon Barr and Mike Lynch

Colton is a renowned linguist, but one mistake from his past is holding him back professionally.  When the opportunity to seek the True Cross of Christ presents itself, he knows that he has a change to redeem himself as a professional.  As the research team convenes, the project is plagued with trouble, starting with the mildly annoying and ending with the deadly.  Will the Cross ever been found?  Imagine the impact on mankind if it should be.

Wow, this book certainly packs a powerful punch.  I have to admit, it started out a little slow, because in order to establish the story, a lot of historical, archeological, and linguistic groundwork needs to be laid.  But once you get into the real action of the plot, the book takes off like a rocket.  And trust me, you are in for a fantastic ride.  A rise encompassing faith, action, drama, intrigue, and suspense.

I like seeing the development of the characters of Colton and Mallory, and watching the two of them, and their relationship, change over the course of their quest.  I loved hearing about the sights and sounds of Israel and watching the drama unfold.  It is clear that this book has a lot of solid research behind its story.

The book will certainly appeal to a lot of readers.  Readers of Dan Brown will probably love this book, as it is similar in nature.  Those interested in history, archaeology, and linguistics will enjoy the book as well.  And due to the nature of the story, I believe this book will appeal widely to Christian readers of all sorts.

All in all, I am really glad I stuck with this book, it really pays off in the end.




I received a review copy of the book courtesy of the publisher.

Johnny One Eye, by Jerome Charyn

The country is in its infancy, and in the midst of what we would later call the Revolutionary War.  Washington is trying to lead his men to victory, loyalists are trying to lead the rebels to gallows, spies abound, and in a section of Manhattan referred to as Holy Ground, the true fate of the country lies in the hands of prostitutes.  This is the world in which John Stocking lives, as a double agent, and son of a madam.  As battles are waged in the colonies, similar battles are being waged within Stocking himself, as he attempts to learn the truth about his father, and battles his love for a woman who may never love him back.

I love when historic fiction opens the reader up to a whole new aspect of the history it describes, and that is exactly what Charyn has done with this book.  This is not the Revolutionary War you learned about in gradeschool.  And chances are, this "fictional" book is much closer to the truth than many school textbooks.  The characters are those who truly did battle, the scoundrels, the spies, the whores.  They are the ones whose stories are never told when history is conveniently sanitized.

I particularly loved the title character, and loved hearing about his journey throughout the war.  I loved his interactions with Washington, and have now learned to see Washington in a new (and much more interesting) light.  Although I am not much of a student of history, I simply adored this book.  The writing was so engaging, I found it hard to stop reading, and read late into the night just to see what Johnny would be dealing with next.

I think many fans of historical fiction will like this book.  Similarly, historians who specialize in the Revolutionary War will enjoy this fictional, though most likely accurate account, of the political climate at that time.  As I read this, I thought of how much my husband would love it for that very reason, though his interest is more politics than history.

All in all, another wonderful book by a truly masterful storyteller.

The publisher has provided me with a copy of this book to giveaway to my blog readers.

In order to enter, you must be a follower of this blog.  Giveaway is open to US Residents only.  Entries will be accepted until 12:01 am EST on June 18th, 2011.  In order to enter the giveaway, complete this form.

I received a review copy of this book  courtesy of the publishers.

Don't Breathe a Word, by Jennifer McMahon

When they were children, Sam's sister Lisa disappeared.  She told everyone she was crossing over to the world of the fairies, and would meet the Fairy King.  Everyone figured she was kidnapped, or worse.  Fifteen years later, odd things begin happening to indicate Lisa was returning to her family.  But the more Sam and his girlfriend Phoebe get involved in uncovering Lisa's whereabouts, the more bizarre the situation becomes.  What really happened to Lisa, and do faeries really exist?

It is rare that I judge a book by its cover, but I could not help but be spellbound by the cover of this book.  The cover is what made me read this book, and the story was equally spellbinding.  In terms of the storyline, I thought the book was incredible, with the possibility of a magical fairy world always looming, but being more sinister than we know.  It reminded me a lot of Tyger, Tyger, but I liked this book so much better.  I felt the back story was told much better, and while suspenseful, not at all confusing.

I loved the way the narrative switched with each chapter, so that both the stories of Lisa's childhood and the present unfolded simultaneously.  It was like watching two mysteries unfold into one giant reveal at the end.  Only, at the end, you are still not sure what you believe.

The book was the kind that I could not put down.  It was not a challenging read, and before I would realize it, I had read 80 pages.  I just could not stop until I learned the truth.  And I love that we are never quite certain what the truth actually is.  While aimed at adults, the paranormal themes may also appeal to high school readers.  And while some themes are a little dark, there is really nothing graphic that would make it unsuitable for that audience.  All in all, a great book, one that I can see myself reading more than once.



I received this book for review as part of the Amazon Vine program.

Monster Story, by McCarty Griffin

Christy has returned to West Virginia for her grandmother's funeral.  She had no idea she would end up staying there, but stay there she did.  And now she is living in her grandmother's old cabin in the middle of the woods.  Which would be cozy, if it were not for the killer that was stalking and killing people all around the county.  As more people are harmed, Christy has an idea who, or more appropriately what, is behind the carnage.  But could it be possible?  Do monsters like this really exist?

Wow.  I thought I had read some good monster stories, but this was unlike anything I had read, and I mean that as a very sincere compliment.  Monster story frightened me, sickened me, and mesmerized me.  The way this story was told seemed unique to me, and this monster is certain to scare you.

I really liked the setting of this book.  As someone who grew up in the Appalachian foothills, I know how creepy  backwoods areas can be, and it made for the perfect setting for this story.  I also really enjoyed the characters, and seeing their relationships develop over the course of the book.  I was most enthralled by the development of the "monster", not only in how he came to be, but in how he lost all semblance of humanity.

As a long time horror lover, both in film and book form, I have to say, I would love to see this book come alive on film.  If done right, it could make for a great feature film, and even a low budget movie could do well with this story; I am a firm believer that there is real value to B movies.  Overall, I was impressed by Griffin's writing, and it gave me the same feelings I get when I read Stephen King.  That is not something that I can say about many horror writers.



I received a review copy of this book courtesy of the author.

Broken Wings, by Carla Stewart

Mitzi tenderly cares for her husband, Gabe, as he suffers from Alzheimer's.  When not visiting him at his care center, she spends time volunteering at the local hospital.  It is here that she meets Brooke, a young woman with a seemingly perfect life.  But Mitzi quickly discover's Brooke's secret, and is determined to help her regain control of her life.  Both women learn, through each other, how to mend their own broken wings.

I thought this novel was simply breathtaking, and heartbreaking, and empowering all at the same time.  Be forewarned, the issues at work in the book are sometimes difficult to deal with.  As someone whose family has been touched by Alzheimer's, as well as domestic abuse, this book struck a nerve for sure, but in a tender and loving way.

I adore the love story of Mitzi and Gabe, and I liked the way the story was revealed, bit by bit, weaving past with present.  I also like the juxtaposition of Brooke's story, watching it unfold and seeing her grow.  I thought the characters of Brooke and Mitzi both were incredibly well developed, and I feel like I really got to know them.  I found Brooke's boyfriend highly unlikeable, and even when I learned his story, I felt no sympathy for him.

This book is labled as Christian fiction, but it would appeal to mainstream readers as well.  The focus is not so much on religion, but on faith, and inner strength.  Overall, a great book.


I received a review copy courtesy of the publishers.