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Relevant Fiction Reviews: Novels Set in Boston

Published by CAstfalk on 07/15/2019
Relevant Fiction Reviews

We recently visited the Boston area of Massachusetts, and I’ve been thinking of the books I’ve read – contemporary or historical – set in this locale. I bet I’m forgetting some! But these are the first that came to mind.

A Passion Most Pure (The Daughters of Boston, #1)A Passion Most Pure by Julie Lessman
I’ve read A Passion Most Pure twice – something I don’t often do – mainly due to the size of my to-be-read list. This book, my introduction to Julie Lessman’s writing, stuck with me so much I gave it a second go.

Is it a little like a soap opera in spots? Yep. There’s a reason soap operas of the daytime and nighttime variety have endured. I don’t consider those elements a strike against the book.

I love that the importance of chastity is addressed without minimizing temptation, glossing over human frailties, or the purpose of God-given passion in our lives. A great introduction to the Daughters of Boston!
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Relevant Fiction Reviews: Split-time Novels

Published by CAstfalk on 05/21/2019
Relevant Fiction Reviews

I’ve yet to read many split-time novels, but I do enjoy those I’ve read! An author’s ability to skillfully interweave themes in two plot lines set in separate eras can enhance and deepen those themes while adding interest for the reader.

Hidden Among the StarsHidden Among the Stars by Melanie Dobson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This beautifully written tale follows the lives of a handful of young Austrians living under Nazi occupation. One is a gifted Jewish musician, one is the young man who loves her, and another the childhood friend who loves him.

Interwoven is the story of Callie, aka Story Girl, a lonely bookstore owner in possession of two books connected to Austria and hidden treasure.

There is mystery, romance, and tragedy, but, in sum, it’s a novel about the power of stories – children’s stories and our own stories – internalizing them, living them, and marveling at the way the master storyteller has perfectly interwoven each of them.
Continue readingRelevant Fiction Reviews: Split-time Novels
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