Broken and Beloved by Sammy Rhodes

In Broken &Beloved Rhodes combines pop culture, relatable stories, and thoughtful analysis to bring his readers to a place of reflection and timeless truth. Exploring concepts such as identity, value, and wholeness Rhodes has a gift for taking large concepts and presenting them in ways that are both accessible and memorable.

One of the things I appreciate the most about Rhodes writing is his ability to teach while coming alongside. At no point does Rhodes ever come across as a lecturer but rather a fellow traveler in life with some perspectives that may not be always observable on the main road. As a result, Rhodes is able to speak into both the mundane and the extraordinary, weaving the gospels presence into both.

This is definitely a book to enter into with an open mind. Part of Rhodes style is to ask question that demand reflection to fully engage the text. Questions about wholeness, one's reaction to self and other, and the need for grace which require honesty and vulnerability.  However, again, thanks to Rhodes own vulnerability and personal stories this feels like entering into a journey of reflection rather than being sent out on one's own.

While this is not the first book on this topic I have read, Rhodes humour, conversational tone, and ability to structure and build his argument make this a book I could easily recommend to my friends looking for more insight into these themes.

As an aside, I admit, personally, it was odd seeing all the quotes from Vanier's work within the novel given the recent revelations. That said, I recognize that Rhodes would have been writing well before Vanier's case came into public knowledge and I can acknowledge that Vanier's personal issues don't detract from the contributions of his life long career. I'm just personally still working through it myself and may have just skimmed the quotes from that particular author on this read through.

4 out of 5 stars

I received a copy on this book in exchange for my opinion on the book, the thoughts are my own.

Secrets of My Heart by Tracie Peterson

For people familiar with Peterson's work there probably won't be a lot of surprises in Secrets of My Heart. In fact, for long-term readers, there will even be a few familiar characters making an appearance. However, this also means, unsurprisingly, that Peterson has penned a tale full of characters you'll want to journey along with once again.

I really appreciate Nancy as a lead in the ways Peterson explores grieving both from Doug and Albert as well as against God and with herself. Nancy may be set in a specific time period but her emotional struggles feel relatable. Grief is complex and I appreciate how Peterson presses into it for Nancy.

Nancy also brings a host of characters with her borders. Now, recognizing that this is book one of a new series (most likely trilogy) I truly hope some of these characters find their feet in future endeavors. The sisters and Mrs. Weaver added some interest and it felt as though their secrets were merely introduced not resolved and my sense is that Clementine and Gabe could easily step up as book two's central figures maybe allowing Mimi to shine a bit more. 

I think it's a mark of skill for an author to not only leave a satisfying main story but leave you with questions about the rest of the cast. I have some theories on Mrs. Weaver.

As I said earlier, the main plot feels familiar as Nancy and Seth seek the truth about Albert Pritchard's dealings and demise but I still enjoyed Peterson's pacing of the plot and inclusion of details. Honestly, I think given the current chaos the familiarity made the novel that much more inciting.

Finally, I appreciate Peterson's working in of the Gospel. Nancy's interactions with her family and mentors never came across as sermonizing but rather as a natural mentoring and care letting the words and their message move seamlessly within the story, never jarring but encouraging interaction with the story and reflection on meaning.

4.5 out of 5 stars

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc."

Out of the Embers by Amanda Cabot

I have no problem stating it upfront. Out of the Embers is hands down my favourite book by Amanda Cabot to date.

While Cabot provides all the usual character growth and romance possibilities with her main character Evelyn, she has filled in her plot with twisting turns, lots of heart, and some of the best narrative timing I've seen in this genre when it comes to Evelyn's growth.

Evelyn easily holds this story as a lead character thanks to the personality and resilience she's developed in the face of a past filled with loss and fear thanks to the ongoing presence of one she's deemed "the watcher." I like Evelyn, she's a strong lead but not one who's isolated from her past, Cabot took the time to make sure her insecurities were realistic given her history and that she had the support in the narrative to work through them.

Wyatt and Polly were amazing secondary characters. Polly's backstory kept me guessing as it was unfolded and her innocence provided a good counter to Evelyn and Wyatt's concerns.

Wyatt was interesting as a male lead and I appreciated Cabot's notes explaining how he changed a few plot points on her thanks to his personality. This freedom Cabot gives her characters to grow and change as the narrative speaks really makes for a solid and engaging cast.

Second the romance. I've said before it annoys me when two character meet and fall in love immediately. So, I was a little concerned when Polly and Wyatt first meet. But, my fears were soon eased. Cabot really does a masterful job keeping her characters motivations in line and provides a satisfying romance for Evelyn with her three potential suitors. Also, side note, she does an excellent job capturing the environment of falling in love in a small town, the nosy but caring neighbours, Polly's opinions, everything just rings true in Evelyn's journey and made it such a joy to read.

I will admit, I'm curious to see if the charm of Mesquite Springs continues without Evelyn anchoring the plot, not to mention how one characters journey for mental health treatment will be handled in future stories but with Dorothy already confirmed to be continuing the story in book 2 I doubt fans will have too long to wait.

4 out of 5 stars.

I received this book as part of the #RevellReads book tour. All the opinions are my own.