Make Believe by Mac Barnett

Make Believe

by Mac Barnett

Rating: ★★★★★

Audio Book Review:

I really enjoyed this audiobook. Mac Barnett has a friendly and easy way of telling stories that makes it feel like you are listening to a friend talk about books, kids, and imagination. He shares funny and meaningful experiences he has had with children during school visits and story times, and those moments really show how creative and honest kids can be. I liked hearing how the children reacted to the stories in unexpected ways and how those experiences shaped his thoughts about writing.

I especially liked the parts where he talked about Margaret Wise Brown and her approach to children’s books. You could really tell he admired her creativity and the way she understood how children think and experience stories. Those sections added a lot of warmth and personality to the audiobook and helped show why he cares so deeply about storytelling for kids.

The audiobook is funny, thoughtful, and very easy to listen to. His narration feels natural and sincere, which makes the stories even more enjoyable. The ending slowly brings all of his ideas together and leaves you thinking about how important books and imagination can be in people’s lives. Overall, this was a warm, meaningful, and comforting listen that I would definitely recommend.

Big thank you to #NetGalley, #HachetteAudio, #LittleBrown&Company , and author/narrator #MacBarnett for allowing me to listen to the audiobook copy of Make Believe, in exchange for my honest thoughts. All opinions are my own.

Reviewer:  Patricia  N.

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This is a review of the audiobook.

Of Flaw and Scorn by Vera Bell

Of Flaw and Scorn

by Vera Bell

Rating: ★★★★★

I just finished "Of Flaw and Scorn" by Vera Bell, and it was a great story. If you like historical stories that have some actual heart to them, you’ll definitely want to check this one out. It’s set way back in the 700s during the Viking raids in Ireland, and the atmosphere is just spot on.

​The story focuses on Brigit and Reidar. Brigit has plenty of reasons to be bitter toward the Vikings, and Reidar is a warrior who’s considered "flawed" by his own people because he’s a bit too merciful. Watching their paths cross over the years was the best part. It’s a slow-burn connection that feels totally right, not rushed or cheesy.

​The story keeps you moving through about seven years of their lives. It’s not only about the action; it’s about how these two deal with their baggage and their faith. The ending is super satisfying and feels right for everything that they went through.

​If you want a solid, low-key read that stays with you, give this one a go.

​Big thanks to NetGalley, VeraBell author, Victory Editing and the NetGalley Co-op publisher, for letting me read an early copy in exchange for my honest thoughts. All opinions are my own.

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Fires of Injustice by Kendy Pearson

Fires of Injustice by Kendy Pearson

Rating: 4 Star review

This is a historical novel set in the late 1800s. It is an emotional story about a dark time in American history. It follows people who are brave enough to stand up for others, even when it’s dangerous. It’s a mix of history, faith, and a sweet "second-chance" romance.

The book takes place in the 1880s in California. It’s a time when there was a lot of prejudice against Chinese immigrants. The main character, Yakira Mitchell, works at a mission home that rescues and protects Chinese girls who have been treated badly. The "Fires" in the title refers to the real-life historical events, where entire communities were threatened by violence and arson. The story is about Yakira trying to save her mission and the girls she loves while the world around her seems to be falling apart.

Yakira has dedicated her whole life to helping others at the Occidental Mission Home. She wants to open her own home to rescue even more girls, but she also has to face secrets about her own past that she didn't see coming.

Grant Campbell is a smart attorney who used to be very close to Yakira before he left town seven years ago. He returns to San Francisco, wanting to make up for his past mistakes. He uses his legal skills to defend Chinese immigrants and wants to win back Yakira’s trust and love.

At first, Yakira is very focused on her work but is also holding onto a lot of hurt towards Grant. Throughout the book, she learns how to forgive and how to trust God even when things look really scary. She grows from being a protector to a leader.

Grant starts out feeling guilty for leaving his family and Yakira behind. He develops from someone running away from his problems into a man of high integrity who is willing to risk his career and safety to do what is right in court.

The ending is very dramatic as the "fires of injustice" reach a breaking point. While the book deals with some sad and heavy history, the conclusion is full of hope. It shows that love and faith are stronger than fear. Yakira and Grant find a way to work together for a bigger purpose, and their relationship ends on a very beautiful, heart-warming note.

If you like historical stories with romance, faith, and forgiveness, this may be the book for you.

Thank you, #NetGalley , #KendyPearson author, and #PearBlossomBooks publisher, for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

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The Psalms by Marty Folsom

The Psalms by Marty Folsom

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

You have to check out Marty Folsom’s take on the Psalms! I just finished it, and honestly, it changed how I looked at the whole book. If you’ve ever felt like the Psalms were just too much to get into, you need to check this book out.

It doesn’t feel like a dusty textbook at all. Marty writes in a way that’s super down-to-earth. He doesn't skip over the messy parts of life; he leans right into them.

Even though the Psalms are individual songs, Marty shows us the personal journey of the individuals walking through life. He focuses on the "Psalmist" as a real person dealing with some heavy stuff—betrayal, fear, and those nights where you feel totally alone. It’s so relatable because he uses words that we actually use today.

You get to see the individuals move from literally screaming at the ceiling in frustration to slowly finding a sense of peace.

 

The ending shows us how all that pain eventually turns into a "Hallelujah." It’s not a fake or forced happy ending, but a real sense of hope that things are going to be okay.

I loved this book because it’s so honest. It’s perfect if you’re looking for something to read during your quiet time or to talk about in a small group. It’s short, punchy, and makes you feel like you aren't the only one who has ever felt overwhelmed or doubtful.

If you want a book that speaks to your heart and makes the Bible feel alive and personal, grab this book. It’s definitely one I’m going to be recommending to my friends and family.

Thank you, #NetGalley , #MartyFolsom author, and #MorehousePublishing publisher, for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

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Genesis by Mary Healy

Genesis by Mary Healy

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars – Clear, engaging, and spiritually rich study of Genesis

Mary Healy’s Genesis is an accessible and thoughtfully written commentary that helps readers engage deeply with the first book of the Bible. It combines solid biblical scholarship with a devotional tone, making it suitable for both personal study and group reading.

Healy brings the major figures of Genesis to life—Adam and Eve, Noah, Abraham and Sarah, Jacob, and Joseph—showing them as complex individuals shaped by faith, failure, and gradual transformation. Their stories are not treated as isolated accounts but as part of a united whole that traces God’s covenant plan unfolding through generations.

A key strength of the book is how clearly she explains the major theological themes such as creation, sin and its consequences, divine promise, and redemption. She also provides helpful historical and cultural content that clarifies difficult passages without being overwhelming. The progression from early humanity to the patriarchs and finally to Joseph in Egypt shows the story of both human weakness and God’s persistent faithfulness.

The final chapters on Joseph stand out for their emotional and theological depth, especially in the forgiveness, providence, and reconciliation. Healy shows how Genesis ends not with full resolution, but with anticipation of God’s continued work through Israel.

While more advanced academic readers may desire a deeper study with critical scholarship, the book’s clarity, organization, and spiritual insight make it effective as an introductory-to-intermediate level commentary.

Overall: This is a very strong and readable guide to Genesis that balances faith, theology, and narrative understanding.

Thank you, #NetGalley , #Mary Healy author, and #BakerAcademic publisher, for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

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Blood Bound

Blood Bound by Ellis Hunter

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Blood Bound ended up being one of those books that was really hard for me to put down. I picked it up because the dragon rider and magic elements sounded interesting, but I honestly got attached to the characters much faster than I expected. Astrid, Skylar, and Prince Zryan all had their own personalities, struggles, and emotional moments that made them feel real instead of just typical fantasy characters.

I really liked the atmosphere of the story, too. The dragons, magic, royal politics, and hidden dangers gave the story a tense feeling throughout, but it never felt overly complicated or hard to follow. The fantasy elements blended really well with the relationships and emotional parts of the story, which made me even more invested in what was happening.

What stood out most to me was the character growth. Nobody felt perfect, and the choices they made actually carried emotional weight. There were several times I meant to read just a chapter or two and ended up reading much later than I planned because I needed to know what happened next.

The ending felt satisfying while still leaving me excited for more. If you enjoy fantasy romance with dragons, strong characters, magic, and emotional tension, I’d definitely recommend Blood Bound. It was such a great read.

Thank you, #NetGalley , #EllisHunter author, and #AtriaBooks publisher, for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

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Patricia N, Reviewer

The Apothecary by the Sea

The Apothecary by the Sea 

by Victoria Bennett 

Rating: 5 star rating

The Apothecary by the Sea is a beautiful and thoughtful memoir about starting over, healing, and finding peace through nature. Victoria Bennett shares her move with her family to the remote Orkney Islands in Scotland, where she creates a garden filled with herbs and medicinal plants while also trying to rebuild her own sense of purpose and happiness.

The book is not fast-paced or full of dramatic twists. Instead, it focuses on personal growth, family life with her husband and son as a big part of the story, the changing seasons, and the calming rhythm of island living. Bennett honestly shares her struggles with grief, illness, loneliness, and change, which makes her story feel very real and relatable.

One of the strongest parts of the book is how the setting almost becomes a character itself. The sea, storms, plants, and landscape all reflect the emotions she is going through. As the story moves forward, you can clearly see her becoming stronger, more settled, and more connected to both the island and herself.

Gardeners and people who enjoy herbs, plants, and nature will especially appreciate the detailed descriptions of growing and caring for a garden in such a rugged environment. The gardening aspects add warmth and beauty throughout the story.

The ending is quiet but satisfying, showing that healing is not instant but happens slowly over time. Overall, this is a warm, calming, and inspiring read for anyone who enjoys nature writing, gardening, herbal traditions, or personal stories about finding hope and belonging.

Thank you, #NetGalley , #JohnRhodes author, and #RoundelHouse publisher, for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

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Triumph and Tragedy

 Rating: ★★★★★

Breaking Point: 

Triumph and Tragedy by John Rhodes

This was a strong and emotional WWII novel that felt more personal than a lot of war books. Instead of only focusing on battles, it also shows the stress, fear, and hard choices people had to make near the end of the war. 

The main character, Eleanor Shaux, was the most interesting part of the story for me. She’s a tactical analyst who gets pulled away from Europe and into the Manhattan Project, where she has to wrestle with the moral questions surrounding the atomic bomb. She’s smart, exhausted from years of war, and struggling emotionally from personal loss and everything she has seen. 

The story also includes major historical leaders like Franklin D. Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, and Joseph Stalin as tensions rise between the Allies even while victory is getting closer. That part made the story feel bigger than just one person’s experience. 

What I liked most was how the book balanced triumph and heartbreak. There’s action and suspense, but also quieter moments that show the emotional cost of war. The ending was powerful and thoughtful without spoiling everything or trying to wrap things up too perfectly.

Overall, this was a memorable historical fiction read with strong characters and a lot of emotional depth. I’d definitely recommend it to readers who enjoy WWII stories with both action and human drama.

Thank you, #NetGalley , #JohnRhodes author, and #RoundelHouse publisher, for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

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The Appearance of Impropriety

Headline: A Compelling L.A. Legal Drama with a Heartfelt Slow-Burn Romance

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

An Appearance of Impropriety by Jayna Breigh is a captivating blend of courtroom tension and a slow-burn romance that kept me hooked from start to finish.

The story is soaked in the atmosphere of Los Angeles, following Judge Mahalia Jackson as she navigates the high-pressure world of the L.A. judicial system. The city itself feels like a character—from the gritty reality of personal injury billboards to a pivotal, high-tension moment during a classic California earthquake. 

Mahalia is forced to work with JD Cash, a lawyer whose fame as billboard lawyer clashes with her refined professional world. When a major case and a natural disaster force them together, the professional lines they’ve drawn begin to blur.

I loved the contrast between Mahalia’s rigid personality and JD’s down to earth approach. Having put her personal life on hold to climb the ranks in L.A., Mahalia lives by a strict rule to never date a lawyer. Watching her deal with the intense chemistry between them, makes the story even more impactful. Their journey feels earned, and with their integrity and faith—including Mahalia's return to her roots—adds a beautiful layer of depth.

Narrated by Alyx Monroe, the performance perfectly captures Mahalia’s transition from a guarded professional to someone more vulnerable. 

Regarding the content, this is a wholesome, clean romance—the tension is palpable, but the relationship remains focused on emotional connection and shared values.

Thank you, #NetGalley , #JaynaBreigh author, and #RBMedia audio publisher, for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

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More Than Friends

More Than Friends

by Denise Hunter

Rating: ★★★★★

Book Review: 

Denise Hunter has done it again. 

"More Than Friends" is a great friends-to-lovers cliche set against the beautiful view of Chincoteague Island. It’s a story about coming home, finding yourself, and realizing that the person who has always been by your side might just be the one you've been searching for.

Story:

The story follows Jenna Greene, who returns to her hometown on Chincoteague Island after a disastrous breakup that also costs her career. She’s looking for a fresh start, but things get complicated when she discovers her widowed mother has a new boyfriend, Gordan Smith, who seems a bit too good to be true.

Jenna teams up with her childhood best friend, Tyson Parker, to look into Gordan's background. As they spend time together investigating, their competitive, one of the guys' dynamic that they’ve had since they were kids starts to shift into something much deeper. The story balances a sweet romance with a touch of mystery and the unique local culture of the "saltwater cowboys."

The Characters:

 

Jenna Greene: She is sharp, competitive, and incredibly resilient. Watching her navigate the loss of her professional identity while rediscovering her roots makes her a very like able lead.

Tyson Parker: Tyson is a dream hero, a volunteer firefighter, and a "saltwater cowboy" who looks after the island's wild ponies. He’s dealing with his own scars from a past divorce, which adds a layer of vulnerability to his character that is really moving.

Jenna’s Mom & Gordan Smith, the mystery man: The side plot involving Jenna’s mother adds a great deal of tension and gives Jenna and Tyson a reason to lean on each other.

The Ending

The ending is pure Denise Hunter magic.

This is a clean, heartwarming story that still handles real-life struggles with care.

It’s a slow burn that leads to a deeply emotional and satisfying conclusion. The resolution of both the romantic tension and the mystery involving Jenna’s mother feels earned, leaving you with that perfect happily ever after feeling as you close the book.

This is a straightforward, heart-tugging story that doesn't get bogged down in fluff. The tension with Jenna and Tyson is natural and believable. It’s got a great setting, characters you’ll actually like, and a plot that keeps you moving. If you’re a fan of Hallmark-style stories with a little more emotional depth and a great coastal vibe, which presents a beautiful setting on Chincoteague Island with the wild ponies. This makes for a wonderful story that you will enjoy reading. This is a must-read.

Thank you, #NetGalley , #DeniseHunter author, and #ThomasNelsonandZondervanFictionAudio publisher, for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

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Blood Money Faith

Blood Money Faith by Haris Steed

Rating: 5 Stars

Thank you, #NetGalley , #HarisSteed author, and #HarrisSteedPublishing, for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

Review: A Gripping Mystery/Thriller!

Blood Money Faith is a fast-paced thriller set in 1980s South Africa. It’s a great look at a mix of a classic detective story and a deep look at a world of secrets and "blood money."

The Story:

When teenager Sofie Sassoon vanishes after a frantic call to her pastor, Noel, the mystery begins. Soon after, Noel is found dead. The police call it a suicide, but former detective Francois Stoltz suspects a cover-up. He teams up with Millie Cromwell to take on a greedy religious group called "The Body of Christ" that is hiding a web of scheming, corruption, and murder.

The Characters:

* Francois Stoltz: A tough, ex-cop, who was determined to find the truth.

* The Pastor’s Sister, Millie Cromwell: She travels from London to get justice for her brother. She also carries secrets of her own.

* Sofie Sassoon: The missing school girl whose disappearance starts the whole investigation.

The Ending:

The ending is a real nerve-racking experience! Stoltz finally exposes the corruption at the heart of the church and forces the scoundrels to face the truth. It’s a powerful finish that shows how brave people can stand up to evil, even when things look hopeless.

If you love thrillers with big twists and complex characters, you won't be able to put this down!

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Paul and John in Harmony

Paul and John in Harmony

A Theological and Historical Exploration

by Michael J. Gorman

Book Review: 

Rating: ★★★★☆

Thank you, #NetGalley , #MichaelJGorman author, and # publisher, for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

Main Narrative and Comparison:

Most people think Paul and John wrote about different versions of Christianity. Michael Gorman’s book shows they actually share a "perfect harmony". He weighs their different writings side-by-side to show they carry the exact same message

Gorman compares Paul’s letters about Jesus’ humility to John’s story of Jesus washing the disciples' feet. He shows that both authors give equal weight to the idea that being a Christian means living a life of service, like Jesus did.

The book compares Paul’s focus on faith vs. John’s focus on abiding in God’s love. Gorman proves these aren't different ideas; he sees Paul and Johns ideas as two sides of the same coin.

Conclusion:

It’s a great pick for any church member who wants to see how the New Testament fits together. It turns an academic comparison into a practical guide for living like Jesus. It loses one star because some chapters get a bit academic, but the message into how Paul and John support each other is eye-opening.

It's a great look at how the Bible’s two biggest voices can sing the same song and still be in harmony.

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The Sapphire Sea

Audiobook Review: 

The Sapphire Sea by Davis Bunn

Thank you, #NetGalley , #DavisBunn author, and #RBmedia publisher, for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

Overall Rating: ★★★★★

The Story: Plot & Characters

The book follows Colin Eames, a super-smart kid who has had a rough life at home. He moves to a special school in the Outer Banks of North Carolina to get away from his father's temper and try to make a future for himself. Along the way, he makes real friends, falls in love for the first time, and tries to figure out what his mother meant by the "Sapphire Sea."

The Characters:

​Colin: The main character, Colin, is a genius, but he’s also just a kid trying to find where he belongs. You really feel for him as he grows up.

​Mira: A girl who has been through some hard times herself. She becomes a great friend to Colin when he needs it most.

​Tiana: A student from Hawaii who shows Colin what it’s like to really fall in love and feel like you belong

 

The friendships and the romance aren't too much; they feel like relationships that help Colin heal. Even though it’s a deep story about feelings and growing up, the story keeps you wanting to know what happens next.

The Author: #DavisBunn ★★★★★

Davis Bunn is a great writer who has sold millions of books. He is really good at making you feel like you are actually at the beach in North Carolina. He writes about hope and second chances in a way that is easy to understand.

The Narrator: #SusanBennett ★★★★★

The audiobook version is read by Susan Bennett, and she is awesome. She makes every character sound different, so you always know who is talking. Her voice is very smooth and makes the 9-hour audio book fly by.

If you want a great story that makes you feel something without being too overwhelmed, this is it. It’s a beautiful book about leaving a bad past behind and finding a place to call home. Whether you're at the beach or just on your couch, it’s a total 5-star read.

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The Patriot’s Daughter

​Review: The Patriot’s Daughter

​Rating: ★★★★★

Thank you, #NetGalley and publisher, Crooked Lane Books, for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

​If you want a book that you can’t put down, you have to pick up 

#ThePatriotsDaughter by Brittany Butler. This book really makes you think, and with the author being a past CIA agent herself, it makes the story come alive.

​The story follows Ava Anderson. She’s a CIA officer who is smart and tough, but she’s also dealing with some heavy family secrets about her mother. She gets pulled into some serious espionage involving secret agents and a Russian plot that could cause a lot of trouble back home. It’s exciting because it’s not just about the mission; it’s about Ava trying to find the truth while trying to stay out of trouble with her CIA boss. 

The main character is ​Ava, she is a great lead because you really want to root for her. One of the best parts of the book is her relationship with Ben, a veteran officer she works with. The romance and the "will they or won't they" tension between Ava and Ben adds a really nice spark to the story. It’s not just all about the spy stuff; seeing their connection grow while they are in the middle of a dangerous mission makes the book feel much more personal. You also have the target, Konstantine, a Russian spy, who keeps you guessing about who you can actually trust. 

​It’s easy to get into, and it's an action-packed story. The ending will surprise you, and there are plenty of twists and turns to keep you on your toes, but it never gets confusing. It’s just a solid, five-star thriller with a great mix of action and heart. Highly recommended.  

There will also be a sequel out in July or August 2026. I can't wait to read the sequel, I'm sure it will be great, too.

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The Unsean Battle

Book Review: The Unseen Battle by Dr. Joel Muddamalle

Published:  January 27, 2026

Rated:  Five Stars

Unseen Battles is a thoughtful and encouraging book that explores spiritual warfare and how God works through unexpected people and situations. The book presents deep biblical ideas in a clear and easy-to-understand way. One of its main themes is Stranger Theology, which teaches that God often uses outsiders and unfamiliar people to accomplish His purposes. This theme challenges readers to rethink their views on faith, community, and belonging.

A key focus of the book is spiritual warfare in everyday life. Muddamalle explains that spiritual battles often take place in our thoughts, emotions, and daily decisions through fear, doubt, and temptation. He reminds readers that understanding their identity in Christ gives them strength to face these struggles. His message is both practical and encouraging, especially for students and young adults.

Stranger Theology adds depth to the book by showing how God frequently works through those society may overlook. Through biblical examples, Muddamalle encourages humility, hospitality, and openness toward others. This teaching helps readers see the value of welcoming difference and trusting God’s work in unexpected ways.

One of the greatest strengths of Unseen Battles is Muddamalle’s writing style. He balances academic insight with clear, engaging language, making complex ideas easy to understand. His thoughtful use of Scripture and practical examples shows that he is both a strong theologian and an excellent teacher.

Overall, Unseen Battles is an inspiring and meaningful book that helps readers better understand spiritual warfare and God’s mission. Dr. Joel Muddamalle’s emphasis on Stranger Theology and his clear writing make this book a valuable resource for personal growth and study.

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