Love of Family

I decided to read Cindy Woodsmall and Erin Woodsmall's latest Amish novel, "Until Then," anticipating the usual Amish love story. But this was not the usual. At first, I even thought this dealt more with the afterlife. Then it became apparent it was a time-split historical novel that felt more like time travel. Vin and Celeste belong to an Old Order Amish Sect who frown upon artist work. Vin feels compelled to be himself and create his sketches of everyday life. Then one evening, as Vin takes some time to pray and do soul searching, he falls into a ravine. When he wakes up he does not know where he is. This begins Vin's journey to return to Celeste praying daily "May you use my time as you desire" and the people he meets who help him and how he helps them changing their future. For Celeste, she tries to cope with the lost of Vin and disparaging remarks made by the community. A must read for Amish fans as this is very different from most Amish stories.

Tea for the Soul

Sally Clarkson has written a wonderful new book entitled "Teatime Discipleship - Sharing Faith One Cup at a Time." The author reads the audio version of the book in a soothing voice making the experience so relaxing, so inspiring. So much so, I purchased the hardcopy version of the book to enjoy the beautiful picures and recipes. The book is divided into sections: devotional, scripture, short practice suggestions, and recipes. The devotions are shared stories from the authors life offering insight to a faith well lived. I agree with the author's comment about celebrating the life the Lord has given us. And this book provides ways of celebrating that life with a cup of tea. I received a complimentary copy of this audio book from Net Gallery and was under no obligation to post a review.

All Things Egyptian

Jocelyn Green does a wonderful job inviting the reader into the world of Egyptology through her protagonist, Lauren Westlake, in "The Metropolitan Affair." Dr. Lauren Westlake has worked hard earning her degree in Egyptology and obtaining a job at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. However, her one desire is to have a relationship with her father fulfilling her dream of going to Egypt with him. Then, out of the blue, her father offers a chance to join him on an archaeological trip to Egypt. But something holds her back from agreeing to go with him. In the meantime, an old friend, Joe Caravello, now a detective, seeks her out for help in solving art forger case, in particular, Egypt art pieces. Can their combined wits solve who the forger is? And can Lauren find a way to rebuild a relationship with her father? Suspense and mystery abound in this fast paced novel. It was hard to put the book down! I can not wait for the second installment!