"If You're Gone" Inspired Playlist

Every once in a while I hear a song that reminds me of a certain book that I have read. Recently I had the chance to read and review If You're Gone by Brittany Goodwin (click on the link to read my review).
Book synopsis from Goodreads:

Lillian White was planning for the perfect summer- spending every waking minute at the lake with her heartthrob boyfriend, Brad Lee. But her world is shattered when Brad mysteriously disappears the night of his graduation ceremony- the same night he tells her he loves her for the first time. After law enforcement dismisses the case, classifying Brad as voluntarily missing, Lillian becomes desperate to prove that he couldn’t have just walked away. Not from his family. Not from his friends. Not from her.

Heartbroken but determined to find answers, Lillian begins to uncover secrets from Brad’s past that force her to question everything she thought she knew about him and their relationship. Will the truth lead her to him? Or are Brad’s lies just the beginning of the mystery? 

 Upon visiting the authors website I discovered that she had compiled a playlist herself for the short story.

Goodwin's playlist included songs from Daughtry, David Cook and Nickelback (among others). However my personal favourite is A Thousand Years by Christina Perri:

Here are some other songs that reminded me of If You're Gone:

Fix You by Coldplay

A Little Bit Stronger by Sara Evans

When You're Gone by Avril Lavigne 

Be sure to check out author Brittany Goodwin's post for her If You're Gone Playlist. 

If You're Gone by Brittany Goodwin

If You're Gone

By: Brittany Goodwin

Published: June 2016

Published By: Edge of 22 Publishing

Format Read: eBook

Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary, Christian Fiction, Mystery

Rating: 3.5/5

🌟🌟🌟.5

I was sent a copy of If You’re Gone by Brittany Goodwin by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Lillian White never would have imagined that she would fall in love with the school bad boy, but a chance encounter with neighbour Brad Lee would change everything. After 6 months of bliss, Brad finally tells Lillian that he loves her on the night of his high school graduation. The next morning she awakes to a frantic message from Brad’s mother saying that he has gone missing without a trace.

Brittany Goodwin’s If You’re Gone is a short story that shines the light on missing youth. Instead of focusing on the details of the investigation into Brad’s disappearance, it follows the hardships Lillian, their friends and families faced. This character driven plot sets this story apart from other mysteries that I have read in the past, which tend to be plot driven.

Although naive characters like Lillian aren’t my favourite, I found that I was able to relate to her love for Brad and their relationship was similar to my own. While her family and friends dealt with her grief in different ways, I was able to understand why she was feeling the way she did and how it affected her. The author did a good job of fitting all the details into such a short story. It was quite an emotional read for me and I flew through the pages.

For those who are interested in learning how Lillian fared in the years after If You’re Gone, they are encouraged to visit Brittany Goodwin’s website where she has posted a hidden chapter.

I would recommend this short story to fans of young adult contemporary fiction. 

Visit Brittany Goodwin's website at the link: http://www.brittanygoodwin.com 

No Safe Harbor (Edge of Freedom, #1) by Elizabeth Ludwig

No Safe Harbor (Edge of Freedom, #1)

By: Elizabeth Ludwig

Published: October, 2012

Published By: Bethany House Publishers 

Format Read: Kindle for PC, eBook

Genre: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Historical Romance

Rating: 3.5/5 

Cara Hamilton thought her twin brother Eoghan was dead, but when a cryptic letter confirms that he is alive, she risks it all and boards a ship to America. Cara is warned to be cautious and not trust anyone until she is safely reunited with him. However she accepts the help of a fellow passenger aboard the ship who directs her towards a boarding-house and an irresistible young man named Rourke. While Cara searches for her brother, she finds her own life at risk. But can she figure out how this relates to her his disappearance and can she really trust those who she has befriended?

Back in 2013, I won my first Goodreads giveaway which was a copy of Elizabeth Ludwig’s Dark Road Home, the second book in the Edge of Freedom series. However I had yet to read this first book until now.

No Safe Harbor is set in 1897, New York, a time period and city that I enjoy reading about. The story moved at a good pace throughout and held my attention. The main characters had detailed backstories that played into the events that transpired.

Unfortunately I didn’t love No Safe Harbor as much as I did Dark Road Home. I found Cara to be very naive and careless. I tend to enjoy stronger female protagonists and felt she was the typical damsel in distress.

I liked how the author switched narrative perspectives throughout however I wish it was more consistent. There were some characters that was only featured once or twice and left me wanting to learn more about them.

No Safe Harbor was a good story, despite those minor things I mentioned. I would recommend it to those who enjoy historical Christian fiction.  

Edge of Freedom Series 

1. No Safe Harbor 
2. Dark Road Home

An Amish Family Christmas: A Charmed Amish Life Christmas Novel by Shelley Shepard Gray

An Amish Family Christmas: A Charmed Amish Life Christmas Novel
By: Shelley Shepard Gray 

Published: October. 2016
Published By: Avon Inspire
Format Read: ARC, eBook
Genre: Amish Fiction, Christian Fiction
Date Read: August 4, 2016
Rating: 3.5/5

 I was sent a copy of An Amish Family Christmas: A Charmed Amish Life Christmas Novel by Shelley Shepard Gray, from the publisher via Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review.

After the death of his father, Levi Kinsinger is absolutely lost. Unable to face his siblings he rents a small shack of a home in his hometown of Charm. He attempts to distract himself with work at his family’s lumber mill until he meets his beautiful new neighbour and her sweet little girl.

Single mother Julia moves to town to create a better life for her daughter Penny. Memories from her past keep her guarded, but an unlikely friendship with Levi begins to blossom. Then a secret she had been keeping for years comes to light and puts her and Penny’s safety in jeopardy. Can the bond she, Levi and Penny have created stand the test of these revelations?

Meanwhile Levi’s best friend Simon is helping his sister open a refuge for abused women and children. An Amish Family Christmas is the fourth book in Shelley Shepard Gray’s series The Charmed Amish Life.

An Amish Family Christmas is the first Amish fiction book I’ve read that wasn’t set on a farm in one way or another. This was a welcome change and gave me a different glimpse into their culture. It did seem as if the characters were slightly more immersed in the “English” way of life, but they still valued their faith and Amish traditions.

The characters were interesting with backstories that helped to justify their personalities and the decisions they made. I think that author could have easily extended the length of this novel on those stories alone.

Unfortunately because it was so short, I found as a reader that I missed out on some important relationship development. Especially when it came to Levi and Julia’s friendship. The secondary story line of Tess and her refuge for abused women and children seemed to be lost amidst the main story. Although hopefully the author will expand on this in future installments of this series.

An Amish Family Christmas was a light and cozy read that would be best read on a cold day, curled up by a roaring fire. It was a sweet story with strong a strong family dynamic. Because this is the first book I have read in this series, I am now curious to go back and read the first three books.

I would recommend this book to fans of Amish fiction, especially those have already read the previous books in this series.  

The One Who Sees Me by Kandi J. Wyatt

The One Who Sees Me
By: Kandi J. Wyatt

Published: September, 2015
Published By: Vox Dei
Format Read: eBook
Genre: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction
Date Read: August 14, 2016

Rating: 2.5/5

I was sent a copy of The One Who Sees Me by Kandi J. Wyatt, from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Faru grew up as a servant in the court of King Cyning, until she was traded to a foreign Lord in exchange for his cousin. After settling into Lord Cegrol’s household, the King learns that not only is Lady Cwen the Lord’s cousin, but his wife as well. Betrayed, King Cyning sends her back, but it is decided that Faru will stay in the Lord’s service. She would be promoted to Lady Cwen’s personal handmaiden. The two would form a turbulent relationship, but Faru would find solace in Lord Cegrol, Cailean the steward’s son and her faith in The Existing One. The One Who Sees Me is the retelling of an Old Testament Biblical story.

A couple of years ago I began reading Christian fiction, mostly with a historical setting. Although I admit I’m not a religious person, so I wasn’t familiar with the Biblical story that this novel was inspired by.

The One Who Sees Me isn’t a book I would typically gravitate to, but as I read along I found myself enjoying Faru’s story. The characters were interesting to me and the fast pace made for a quick read.

The setting gave me the impression of a medieval time period, although it wasn’t exactly specified. This was somewhat problematic for me at first, as I prefer to have a more concrete image of the setting. However this gave it a fairy tale feel that will appeal to many readers.

Another aspect that kept me from giving this novel a higher rating was the inconsistencies in the language. The author often used phrases and descriptions that were true to a historical time period, but in the next instance would use more modern slang. Unfortunately this really distracted me from the story.

Those points aside, I was able to recognize the message Kandi J. Wyatt wanted to convey with Faru’s story. The One Who Sees Me shares a great message of the importance of faith and patience. With some editing, I would recommend this book to those with an interest in Biblical retellings. 

A Beauty Refined (Sapphire Brides, #2) by Tracie Peterson

A Beauty Refined (Sapphire Brides, #2)
By: Tracie Peterson

Published: July, 2016
Published By: Bethany House Publishers
Format Read: ARC, eBook
Genre: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, Historical Romance
Date Read: August 8, 2016, 

Rating: 4/5

I was sent a copy of A Beauty Refined (Sapphire Brides, #2) by Tracie Peterson, from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

Phoebe Von Bergen has led a sheltered life growing up as the only daughter of a German nobleman. Her father’s severity made her believe that all men were of the same nature. However despite his temper Phoebe loves him dearly and is more than happy to accompany him on a trip to America. Graf Von Bergen’s interest in purchasing sapphires takes him to Helena, Montana. It is there that Phoebe would meet a local lapidary Ian Harper and a charming young boy named Kenny. This stay in the American west will also reveal her father’s true colours and long kept secrets that lead to danger.

I was initially interested in a Beauty Refined due in part to the author Tracie Peterson, who I have read from in the past. The historical fiction genre was also of interest to me.

The early 20^th century time period drew me in as well as the detailed descriptions of the lavish Von Bergen lifestyle. The characters were interesting with background stories that supported their reasoning’s. This was especially true for Phoebe’s naïve and obedient nature. Although I found she adapted to a less glamorous life in Montana a bit too fast for someone of her social standing.

I was able to predict the outcome of several situations, but the way it all played out had more excitement than I expected. This was a pleasant surprise that earned it a 4 star rating from this reviewer.

A Beauty Refined was an enjoyable read and even though it is the second book in the Sapphire Brides series, it can be read as a stand-alone novel. I look forward to reading more by Tracie Peterson in the future and would recommend this book to Christian historical fiction fans. 

From this Moment (From This Moment. #1) by Elizabeth Camden

From this Moment (From this Moment, #1)
By: Elizabeth Camden

Published: June, 2016
Published By: Bethany House Publishers
Format Read: ARC. eBook, NetGalley
Genre: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction
Date Read: June 28, 2016

Rating: 3.5/5

I was sent a copy of From this Moment by Elizabeth Camden from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 

When Romulus White, his cousin Evelyn and good friend Clyde took over a small scientific magazine years before, he never would have imagined the success it would reach. Now the only thing that could make their publication better would be bringing on board talented illustrator Stella West. When he discovers that she is in town, he jumps at the chance to make her a job offer. Unfortunately Stella isn't in Boston for work or even pleasure. She is working undercover at city hall trying to solve the mystery behind her sisters death. During a time where corruption runs rapid through city hall and the top law-makers, Boston is working to become the first city in the United States with a subway. Having a prominent businessman on her side may just get Stella the answers she is looking for. So she begins illustrating for the magazine in exchange for Romulus's contacts with the local medical examiner and the top attorney in the city. Sparks fly and trouble ensues in Elizabeth Camden's latest historical fiction.

Initial Impression:

I was initially intrigued by the mystery surrounding the death of Stella's sister Gwendolyn. The mention of corruption in city hall had me geared up for some suspense and the high ratings from previous readers added to my expectations.

High Hopes:

Unfortunately I must have set my hopes too high, because I wasn't quite as captivated as I anticipated. It took me quite a while to become immersed in the story and to warm to Stella and Romulus.

Too vain: 

I didn't particularly like the main characters, although I thought that they were perfect for each other. Their vanity and personalities were so well matched and their banter flowed naturally. The humour of their banter was a welcome addition to the story, but at times I found it to take away from the seriousness of the murder investigation.

High Society 

While Camden's writing about high-society was believable, I had trouble suspending my disbelief with Stella's situation. I had a hard time believing that a woman of her class would have been travelling and living unchaperoned like she did during that time period. 

Clyde and Evelyn:

My favourite part was the side-story of the secondary characters; the estranged married couple, Evelyn and Clyde. Despite their own personal troubles, I found them to be much more likeable and I was glad to hear that there is a prequel novella that tells more of their story.

Overall:

My final impression was that From this Moment was a decent story. The time period and its inclusion of the subway construction was interesting. I also found the scientific elements to be well researched by the author.

Final Thoughts: 

Closer to the end my interest began to pick up and I decided on a 3.5 rating. Although I do plan to read the prequel novella, I am undecided if I will read the second instalment for this series. I would recommend From this Moment to fans of Christian historical fiction.  

The Quieting (Bishops Family, #2) by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Title: The Quieting (Bishops Family, #2)
Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher
Published: May 2016
Published By: Fleming H.  Revell Company
Format Read: Trade Paperback
Genre: Amish Fiction, Christian Fiction
Date Read: May 11, 2016
Rating: 4/5

I was sent a copy of The Quieting (Bishops Family, #2) by Suzanne Woods Fisher from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

The Quieting picks up shortly after The Imposter (Bishops Family, #1) left off. Like in the first book readers follow David Stoltfuz, a widowed minister raising his family in the Amish community of Stoney Ridge. Another returning point of view is that of David’s son Jesse, who works as a buggy repairman. Several new characters are introduced to the series including David’s socially clueless niece Abigail, who along with her sister and grandmother come to stay and be of assistance.

The Bishops Family series has a cast of characters that rate among my favourites in any genre. They are interesting and complex with wonderful story lines that set them apart, yet at the same time connect them together.

 Even under a great deal of stress and commitment David is still a solid and caring father, minister, son, uncle and friend. There is something about his nature that drew me to him from the first book.

At just sixteen years old Jesse is living on his own running a buggy repair shop. He is trying to put his past troubles behind him and be a man. The level of maturity and responsibility for a boy in the Amish faith is quite different than that of their “English” counterpart.

Although I did miss reading from the point of view of David’s eldest child Katrina, I did like the addition of his niece Abigail. This character was quite unlike any of the others. Her lack of social skills was almost comical at times and I was reminded very much of Sheldon Cooper from televisions The Big Bang Theory. Like Sheldon Cooper, Abigail is endearing in her own way and only wanted to be of great help. Her love of knowledge and genealogy added an interesting element to her character, which I really enjoyed. Another new character that aligned with Abigail’s story was Dane. Like David, Dane is a kind soul and quite intelligent too.

I loved being back in their world and the town of Stoney Ridge. Suzanne Woods Fisher sets the stage for a warm and inviting reading experience, that I just become so immersed in. I found The Quieting had less notable quotes of wisdom, compared to The Imposter. However it included more moments of amusement that put a smile on my face.

I would recommend The Quieting for fans of Amish fiction, especially to those who have read the first book in the series. 

The Red Door Inn (Prince Edward Island Dreams #1) by Liz Johnson

Title: The Red Door Inn (Prince Edward Island Dreams #1)
Author: Liz Johnson
Published: March 1, 2016
Published By: Revell
Format Read: Trade Paperback
Genre: Contemporary, Christian Fiction
Date Read: March 24, 2016
Rating: 3.5/5 

I was sent a copy of The Red Door Inn (Prince Edward Island Dreams #1) by Liz Johnson from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

A traumatic incident has left Marie Carrington in need of a safe haven and what better place to go than the place the held all of her childhood fantasies: Prince Edward Island. Sitting at the ferry-boat terminal, she counts her meager dollars, knowing she doesn’t have enough to pay her fare. It is then that she would meet an older man by the name of Jack Sloane. Out of the goodness of his heart he would pay for her fare and then go on to offer her a place to stay in his home. After all it was what his late wife would have wanted him to do. 

Marie would accept his offer for room and board in exchange for her help with the renovations of his new bed and breakfast. Along with Jack’s heartbroken nephew Seth, the unlikely trio work to meet the looming opening deadline, while tackling an array of setbacks. 

More about the story:

Marie and Seth have a tug-of-war storyline throughout as they help Jack prepare to open his bed and breakfast. They both struggle with letting each other get too close due to their past experiences. Aside from their struggle is a cast of wonderful secondary characters which include; the man of few words –Jack, a local antique store owner –Aretha Franklin (no relation to the singer) and a young baker named Caden Holt.  

First impressions:

I was instantly drawn to this book by the title of the series: Prince Edward Island Dreams. Like our main character Marie, that beautiful island is one of my dream locations and has been ever since I read Lucy Maud Montgomery’s classic Anne of Green Gables. Each mentioned of the beloved author and her little red headed orphan brought a smile to my face as I read along.

Island hospitality:

Author Liz Johnson did a good job of portraying the welcoming hospitality of the maritime people. I enjoyed the seaside setting of North Rustico and the mention of locations I’ve have the opportunity to visit myself: Charlottetown and Cavendish.  The bed and breakfast renovation also appealed to me as a lover of HGTV. The idea of staying in an old charming Victorian home with a delicious spread of baked goods each morning is just wonderful. 

Marie’s panic attacks:

Although The Red Door Inn was an enjoyable story as a whole, I really struggled with it in the beginning. The reason for this is because of the severe panic attacks that often came over Marie, as a result of her past trauma. As someone who experiences panic attacks myself, it was absolutely nerve wrecking to read about. At times I had to put the book aside and calm myself down before continuing. At times I thought of not finishing it, but my love for Prince Edward Island kept me reading. 

Being able to entice emotions within a reader is a strong writing quality and the mark of an effective author. I do look forward to reading more from Liz Johnson and continuing with this series, even though I struggled with this book.

 

Recommendations:

The Red Door Inn is a Christian novel and therefore wasn't graphic, however Marie’s trauma may be a trigger for those who have had similar experiences. For this reason I wouldn’t recommend it to those who may be uncomfortable with difficult subject matter. Although I would recommend it to others who enjoy the contemporary Christian fiction genre.

The Mitford Snowmen by Jan Karon

Title: The Mitford Snowmen
Author: Jan Karon
Published: October 2002
Published By: Viking
Format Read: Hardcover
Genre: Short Story, Christmas, Christian Fiction
Date Read: January 4 2015
Rating: 4/5

With a heavy snowfall blanketing the town of Mitford, its residents decide to have an impromptu snowman building contest. Following the characters from Karon’s popular series, The Mitford Snowmen is a cute short story. This small hardcover book features colourful artwork as well.

I came across this little book while searching through the shelves at my local library. I was looking for shorter books to read during a read-a-thon and The Mitford Snowmen was a perfect addition to my pile. It also fit in with the current winter season.

Jan Karon’s Mitford series has been on my TBR list for some time now and this was a wonderful introduction to the characters and the setting. It also gave me an idea of the authors writing style.

Although its characters are from an adult series, this story would be appropriate for adults and children alike. Associated with Hallmark, there are even Mitford themed décor which along with this book would make a wonderful gift. 

Mitford Snowmen Jubilee Set (Hallmark)  found on
Ornament Mall