Review: The Wood's Edge by Lori Benton

August 14, 2015

Title: The Wood's Edge
Author: Lori Benton
Publisher: Water Brook Press
Pages: 400
ISBN: 978-1-60142-732-8
Publication Date: April 21st, 2015

Synopsis:
At the wood's edge cultures collide. Can two families survive the impact?

The 1757 New York frontier is home to the Oneida tribe and to British colonists, yet their feet rarely walk the same paths.

On the day Fort William Henry falls, Major Reginald Aubrey is beside himself with grief. His son, born that day, has died in the arms of his sleeping wife. When Reginald comes across an Oneida mother with newborn twins, one white, one brown, he makes a choice that will haunt the lives of all involved. He steals the white baby and leaves his own child behind. Reginald's wife and foundling daughter, Anna, never suspect the truth about the boy they call William, but Reginald is wracked by regret that only intensifies with time, as his secret spreads its devastating ripples.

When the long buried truth comes to light, can an unlikely friendship forged at the wood's edge provide a way forward? For a father tormented by fear of judgment, another by lust for vengeance. For a mother still grieving her lost child. For a brother who feels his twin's absence, another unaware of his twin's existence. And for Anna, who loves them both--Two Hawks, the mysterious Oneida boy she meets in secret, and William, her brother. As paths long divided collide, how will God direct the feet of those who follow Him?
Review:
Can I just say first and for most, how gorgeous is the cover?! I have to say, the cover set the book up perfectly.

I have been a fan of Lori Benton's books, since her first book, Burning Sky. Her writing has so much fluidity to it. It wraps around you as you read it and you are transported back to this time. As you read, you can see all of the research and work Lori has put into her book. It is just amazing. The depth of history and details she applies to her story is just phenomenal. It flows together. Nothing is bogged down. The story propels you wanting to read more of these characters. I couldn't story reading.

The Wood's Edge is book one of The Path Finders series. I'm beyond thrilled about that. This was a setting that was so unique, as was the story. The opening had me on edge wondering what would happen, and goodness, how it shaped the characters. Good Voice, I just ached for. She was a strong character who really grew through this story. Anna was an amazing girl as well. I enjoyed watching her grow. She was relateable. She reminded me of many girls.

William and Two Hawks, they were thrown into everything without their own knowledge. Now, Reginald Aubry, I didn't know what to make of him in the beginning. His choices and the consequences of them were so big. It's amazing how one man's decisions can affect so many people.  There was so much depth to these characters. The development of them is impressive!

This story was addicting. I didn't want it to end. I can't wait to read book 2!

Too Read!
5 out of 5

About the Author:
Lori Benton was born and raised east of the Appalachian Mountains, surrounded by early American and family history going back to the 1600s. Her novels transport readers to the 18th century, where she brings to life the Colonial and early Federal periods of American history, creating a melting pot of characters drawn from both sides of a turbulent and shifting frontier, brought together in the bonds of God's transforming grace.

When she isn’t writing, reading, or researching 18th century history, Lori enjoys exploring the mountains with her husband.

Burning Sky, Lori's debut novel, was a finalist for the ECPA 2014 Christian Book Award, and winner of the 2014 Christy Award for First Novel, Historical, and Book of the Year.



Thank you to Blogging for Books, I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.

Waiting On Wednesday: The Golden Braid

August 5, 2015

Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Breaking the Spine
Each week offers the opportunity to spotlight an up-and coming book that you are most excited about. 

Waiting On:
Title: The Golden Braid
Author: Melanie Dickerson
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Publication Date: November 17th, 2015

Synopsis:
From GoodReads
The one who needs rescuing isn’t always the one in the tower.

Rapunzel can throw a knife better than any man around. And her skills as an artist rival those of any artist she’s met. But for a woman in medieval times, the one skill she most desires is the hardest one to obtain: the ability to read.

After yet another young man asks for Rapunzel’s hand in marriage, Mother decides they need to move once again, but this time to a larger city. Rapunzel’s heart soars—surely there she can fulfill her dream. But Mother won’t let her close to a man. She claims that no man can be trusted.

After being rescued by a knight on the road to the city, and in turn rescuing him farther down the road, Rapunzel’s opportunity arrives at last. This knight, Sir Gerek, agrees to educate Rapunzel in order to pay back his debt. She just has to put up with his arrogant nature and single-minded focus on riches and prestige.

But this Rapunzel story is unlike any other and the mystery that she uncovers will change everything—except her happily ever after.
Why I'm Waiting:
Melanie Dickerson has become a favorite for fairy tale re-tellings. Her stories are just fun and a good mix of historical fiction, but also have a good message to them. I can't wait for this re-telling of Rapunzel!

What are you waiting on this week?

Top Ten Tuesday: Fairytale Re-Tellings

August 4, 2015

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by The Broke and the Bookish.
Each week features a book related topic that offers the opportunity to spotlight your top ten. 

Topic:
Ten Fairytale Re-tellings I've Read/Want To Read

I love fairy tales. Old ones and new ones, even the mix of the two to make something complete new. Fairy tales are just so much fun to dive into.

In my list it is a mix of books I have read and ones I want to read.

 
 1. Princess Ever After (Want to Read)
by Rachel Hauck
2. Dauntless (Have Read, review to follow soon)
by Dina Sleiman
3. The Captive Maiden (Have Read)
by Melanie Dickerson
4. The Merchant's Daughter (Have Read)
by Melanie Dickerson
5. The Selection (Want to Read)
by Kiera Cass
6. Cinder (Want to Read)
by Marissa Meyer
7. The Huntress of Thornbeck Forest (Want to Read)
by Melanie Dickerson
8. Head in the Clouds (Want to Read)
by Karen Witemeyer
9. Ruby Red (Want to Read)
by Kerstin Gier
10. Doon (Want to Read)
by Cary Corp & Lorie Landon



I have always loved fairy tales. I love when new versions come out. They don't get old. What are your top ten fairy tales?

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