Book Review: Secrets of the Pastor's Wife by Christina Ryan Claypool

About the Book:

Wherever Cassandra Martin goes, her secrets go with her. And hiding her past is beginning to take a toll.

Cassie lives in a small white parsonage in the village of Maple Grove. For 15 years, the beautiful and talented artist has appeared to be the perfect wife for Rev. John Martin, the new pastor at Maple Avenue Community Church.

The couple has moved frequently, and Pastor John is too busy with other people's problems to notice Cassie's distress. She has no close friends to confide in, fearing her secrets could jeopardize her husband's position.

That’s until Maple Grove coffee shop owner Katherine “Katie” Montague embraces Cassie as if she were the daughter she never had. Sensing her pastor's wife is haunted by something tragic, the caring widow begins praying for her. Will Cassie trust Katie with the pain of her past or will she let the secrets destroy her?

My Thoughts:

Secrets of the Pastor’s Wife by Christina Ryan Claypool offers readers a tale of tragic mistakes, long-held secrets, and the need for spoken truth. Although I’d consider this book a “heavy” read due to the issues it deals with, I enjoyed the gradual unveiling of Cassie’s story. It was easy to relate to Cassie. She loves her husband, supports him as best she can, and strives to follow Christ. Yet, she struggles with unaddressed issues from her past. I have a friend who is a pastor’s wife and based on what she has told me, I think the author offers an honest insider view into the realities of a pastor’s wife’s life.

I sometimes shy away from novellas as I feel they often lack character development due to the shortened form. However, the pages of Secrets of the Pastor’s Wife are packed with a character-driven plot. Although there is some action, Katie’s observations and lots of dialogue serve to put the focus on Cassie’s character growth. Several themes weave into the storyline and I appreciated the emphasis on mentoring/friendship that is shown between Katie and Cassie.

Secrets of the Pastor’s Wife by Christina Ryan Claypool is an inspirational novella that will appeal to readers (and book clubs) who enjoy character development mixed with spiritual truths.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author. All opinions in this review are my own.

Wild Montana Skies by Susan May Warren

Kacey Fairing's return to Mercy Falls, Montana, dredges up memories of her old flame, Ben King, from the moment she arrives. Determined to stay focused on reconnecting with her daughter, healing emotionally from her last military tour, and functioning as the lead pilot of PEAK Rescue, she refuses to harbor any interest in Ben when she learns that he's also back in town. However, when Ben and Kacey are paired together to work PEAK Rescue, old secrets begin to emerge and the brokenness of their past is exposed. Neither Kacey nor Ben think they are interested in healing or reconciliation, but spending time together resurrects their original passion. As truths emerge and circumstances spiral into danger, they must turn to the One who created them for love. Read more in Wild Montana Skies by Susan May Warren.

Wild Montana Skies is the first full-length novel in Susan May Warren's Montana Rescue series. The prequel novella, If Ever I Would Leave You, concentrates on Ian, Sierra, and Esme. Although the prequel is not as well-written as Wild Montana Skies, I do recommend reading it first as it explains Ian and Sierra's relational history.

The first paragraph of Wild Montana Skies hooked my attention. The strong opening demonstrated admirable talent and creativity by Warren. Naturally, I wanted things to work out between Ben and Kasey and it was a pleasure to observe their spiritual and relational development. Unique phrasing, descriptive prose, complicated romance and breath-taking danger forged together into a captivating and memorable novel.

I recommend Wild Montana Skies to readers who love a well-written adventure novel with plenty of romance. Warren has officially catapulted herself into my top five favorite novelists and I'll be checking out some of her previous releases while I wait for the next novel in the series, Rescue Me, to be released next year .

Read an excerpt from Wild Montana Skies by Susan May Warren on the publisher's website.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

A Lady at Willowgrove Hall by Sarah E. Ladd

Completely disconnected from her family, friends and impulsive youth, Cecily Faire takes a respectable position as a lady's maid at Willowgrove Hall and is suddenly thrust back into contact with the man who knows the secrets and shame of her youth. Desperate to avoid the truth and retain her position, she closes herself off from relationships with those around her – including Nathaniel Stanton, the handsome and capable steward of Willowgrove Hall, who bears his own set of secrets. While she struggles to maintain outward control, fighting to contain her heart is even more difficult. Will Cecily and Nathaniel be able to trust each other with the secrets of their past and, more importantly, will they trust the God who can bring them together? Read more in A Lady at Willowgrove Hall by Sarah E. Ladd.

A Lady at Willowgrove Hall is the third book in Sarah E. Ladd's Whispers on the Moors series. I've not read the other two and this one was fine as a stand-alone book. I appreciated the theme of how speaking the truth opens up possibilities for healing and relationship. The plot was solid and well-paced. Writing style was adequate, neither amazing nor disappointing. However, while the novel was entertaining for a few days, I don't see myself revisiting it again in the future as there was really nothing to elevate it above any other book of its style.

While A Lady at Willowgrove Hall by Sarah E. Ladd is not my favorite book, many readers will like it. I think it is best suited for readers who enjoy clean, nineteenth-century romances that are entertaining, but not amazing.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this ebook free from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Healer's Apprentice by Melanie Dickerson

Being a healer's apprentice affords Rose many benefits. She reads Latin, writes stories, knows how to use herbs to heal, and earns an income that allows her to avoid marriage to a bachelor of her mother's choosing. Rose's problem is that blood makes her squeamish. When she must treat Lord Hamlin, the future duke, it isn't just the blood that makes her unsettled. His handsome features and personal integrity draw Rose's interest, in spite of his high social status and well-known betrothal. Lord Hamlin is committed to fulfilling his duty. Rose is committed to becoming a capable healer. Despite their friendship and attraction, Rose and Lord Hamlin must each learn to walk their own path and follow the One whose plans are greater than their own. Read more in The Healer's Apprentice by Melanie Dickerson.

The Healer's Apprentice by Melanie Dickerson is based loosely on the Sleeping Beauty fairy tale. The story moved very fast in the beginning and right at the end, but for the majority of the time it was well-paced with intriguing characters and an engrossing story that felt original in spite of its fairy tale basis.

The Healer's Apprentice is marketed as Young Adult reading and had definite YA overtones that were mixed with Middle Age Catholicism. I was creeped out by the strange pagan rituals and demonic possession scene. Had I known those were in the book, I wouldn't have read it. Given its Sleepy Beauty basis, I suppose this shouldn't have been as surprising to me as it was. With an obvious Catholic/Christian perspective, the name of Jesus prevails over the demons. However, for me, that didn't negate the disturbing scenes. Had that part of the fairy tale been creatively changed somehow, I probably would have given this book a five star rating. The creepiness factor brings it down to three. The Healer's Apprentice is well-written and engaging, but I wouldn't read it again or recommend it to any of my friends.


 

A Beauty So Rare by Tamera Alexander

Eleanor Braddock's arrival at Belmont Mansion relieves some financial difficulties, but presents a new set of complications. Her wealthy and demanding aunt, Adelicia Acklen, provides her with a place to stay as well as proper care for her ailing father. However, Eleanor longs for more than an arranged marriage to a rich suitor of her aunt's choosing. She finds purpose and passion in serving the widows and orphans of the Civil War, but her endeavor brings her closer to Marcus Gottfried, an architect, botanist and man of secrets. Eleanor and Marcus have very different ideas about how to house the widows and orphans, yet even as they disagree, romance seems to unexpectedly arise. Read more in A Beauty So Rare by Tamera Alexander.

A Beauty So Rare is the newest installment in Tamera Alexander's Belmont Mansion series. Though it's the second book of the series, it works fine as a stand-alone novel. I hadn't read the first one and didn't feel like I was missing anything. In traditional Tamera Alexander style, the book is long with plenty of twists, but the story never drags or becomes boring. I liked the character of Adelicia Acklen, but kept wishing someone would flat-out refuse to acquiesce to her. There was plenty character development for most of the characters and the romance was sweet. I recommend to fans of historical Christian fiction.

Read an excerpt from A Beauty So Rare by Tamera Alexander on the publisher's website.



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Meant to Be Mine by Becky Wade

Celia Park always had a thing for handsome Ty Porter, but he's always had a thing for someone else. When they meet up in Las Vegas, a crazy romance develops, culminating in a hasty marriage at a wedding chapel. The next morning, the fun is over and Ty's certainly not ready to be married to Celia. Celia leaves with a broken heart and wounded soul. Ty, while perhaps less cognizant of his own pain, is no less wounded. Over five years later, Ty insists on meeting Celia for a final time to apologize and move on. A left-behind bracelet leads him to Celia's home and to the child living with her – his child. Ty cannot abandon his child, no matter what his feelings are toward her mother. As Ty and Celia co-parent their daughter, romance begins to simmer. But can Celia ever trust Ty? And will Ty be willing to sacrifice his long-held dreams to be the husband Celia needs?

Meant to Be Mine by Becky Wade was hard for me to put down. Seriously. When I wasn't reading the book, I was thinking of certain parts of the story I'd read or wondering how everything was going to turn out. Wade certainly knows how to craft a story and keep it moving. I've liked Wade's writing style since I read My Stubborn Heart and I still like it now. With a twist on the old “one-night-stand-produces-a-child-that-only-one-parent-knows-about” storyline, the story still felt mostly original as plenty of unique circumstances were added. Ty and Celia's chemistry and subsequent romance were delightful. The supporting characters were engaging and complemented the story.

While Meant to Be Mine is a clean romance, I would still recommend parental guidance for teens. There are a few questionable messages throughout the book. However, I see these as good opportunities to have a conversation. For instance, what constitutes faithfulness in marriage? Is it simply not engaging in a sexual act with anyone except your spouse? Is flirting outside of the marriage relationship considered okay? How about being in love with someone other than your spouse? I won't give away any spoilers, but I will say that my definition of faithfulness in marriage does not line up with marital faithfulness as defined by certain characters. I'm sure there will be different opinions and, like I said, it is an opportunity to start up a conversation.

Lastly, Meant to Be Mine is a stand-alone novel that includes a handful of characters from Wade's previous book, Undeniably Yours, but all necessary background information is supplied.

I recommend this book to fans of Christian romance. It's a keeper for me and I'll definitely read it again!

Read an excerpt from Meant to Be Mine by Becky Wade on the publisher's website.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

A Rush of Wings by Kristen Heitzmann

Noelle St. Claire is running on instinct. A violent episode with her fiance triggers panic and confusion about the past. She leaves her privileged life in New York, boards a bus and lands in the rural town of Juniper Falls, Colorado. Rick Spencer's horse ranch is a far better place to stay than the alternatives and he reluctantly rents her a room. Noelle doesn't think about the future or the past. Living only in the day, she makes many irrational choices, but it is only through her fall that she can clearly see the Savior she needs.

A Rush of Wings by Kristen Heitzmann is a compassionate look at the pain caused by physical and sexual abuse. The characters of Rick and Morgan Spencer complement each other well. They both are important in Noelle's healing, but as Noelle observes, Rick is complete. Morgan is broken. Their rivalry for Noelle's affection leads to tension, but the author writes them in such a way that the reader does not condemn or dislike either of them. I appreciated the author's use of originality. The plot may not have been completely unlike anything else, but the individual scenes were original and enjoyable. My favorite moment of the book was at the end of Rick and Noelle's first date.

One thing I found annoying is that the synopsis of the book states that the horse ranch is owned by Rick and Morgan Spencer. Though Morgan stays at the ranch, the book makes it pretty clear that Rick is the sole owner of the ranch. It's a little thing, but when I pick up a book, I expect the synopsis to be accurate.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Where Hearts Are Free by Golden Keyes Parsons

Bridget Barrington has shared her secret with only one person. Since the day she confided in Philippe Clavell, her feelings for the servant have grown from friendship to tender companionship to love. When Bridget's parents begin looking for a husband for her, she risks her pride and bears her heart to Philippe and her parents. But more than social status stands in the way of her love. Questions remain about Philippe's feelings and whether or not love can conquer extreme religious differences between the two families. When Philippe is released from his servitude, he returns to his family and Bridget's engagement to Edward Moorehead is finalized by her parents. Will the truth of Bridget's secret ever be revealed and is it possible her fiance is somehow connected?

Where Hearts Are Free is historical fiction that incorporates realistic elements of the persecution of the French Huguenots. I thought this was an interesting twist and it added tension to the plot. I enjoyed the story though I found some of the language peculiar. I suppose this is to reflect the time period in which the book is set.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from BookSneeze as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Deep in the Heart of Trouble by Deeanne Gist

Essie surrendered her life to God years ago. With that surrender came the acceptance of her singleness. Now, at age 34, Essie is considered to be an old maid and is content helping with her father's business, running the Corsicana Velocipede Club and spending time with her loved ones. When her father hires Tony Bryant, Essie's under-control world begins to spin out of control – especially when Tony asks for permission to court her! But Essie and Tony both harbor secrets. Essie made a horrible mistake in her past and Tony hides his very identity. Can Essie and Tony both gather the courage to reveal their darkest secrets before the secrets destroy them?

Deep in the Heart of Trouble by Deeanne Gist is the sequel to Courting Trouble and I admit, of the two books, I liked this one better. The plot was filled with romance and at the same time had characters that challenged the reader to grow closer to God. I certainly admired Essie's dedication to God and her understanding that her worth came from God – not a man. She found contentment in her singleness and was willing to stay that way until God decided otherwise. Gist's writing style was catchy, fun and humorous. Mrs. Lockhart's character was absolutely charming. I loved the way she quoted romance novels to make her point. Overall, a good book that I would recommend for a permanent library. I will definitely be reading it again.

Somewhere To Belong

Johanna Ilg loves Amana, the plain community that she has always lived in. Though she longs to visit the outside world, she finds fulfillment by serving her people and her God. When the Schumacher family moves from Chicago to Amana, Johanna is given the responsibility of helping Berta Schumacher learn her responsibilities. The problem is that Berta does not want to be in Amana and she certainly does not want to work in a kitchen all day. Despite difficult moments, a unique friendship is formed between the two young women. When these young women discover family secrets that threaten to change their entire lives, they will only find restoration by pursuing the will of God. But will either of them be willing to face the difficult challenge of forgiveness?

I enjoyed this book, but it was one I would suggest renting from the library before buying. It was okay, but some things were confusing. I don't think Amana is an Amish village, but it has a lot of plain living characteristics. If you really like Amish stories, then you will probably love this book. The plot has a sweet love story woven within it, but focuses mostly on the lives of the two young women.
I suspect that there may be a sequel featuring more of Berta's life. The ending was very open. :)
 
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Hunter's Moon

Hunter’s Moon is a gripping story of family secrets that have never been told but have haunted CJ Baxter for years. CJ Baxter is a bestselling novelist whose stories are closely related to the real life secrets he has known for so long. When his grandfather dies, he returns to his home town of Adelia, NY, where he must face the family that he left so long ago. An old flame, a pending divorce, a bitter custody battle over his dog, a suspicious business deal and a decades old secret all serve to complicate CJ’s life and he soon finds that he must release the secrets he has kept for so long… at any cost.

The author did a great job of pacing this story out. There was always some mystery that kept me wondering until the end. The plot was well-crafted with many intricacies that all linked together to make the story work. My favorite character in this story was Artie, an old-man who talks to scarecrow and knows more of the Baxter family secrets than he should. Definitely a book I will read again.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."