From the publisher:
Can mysterious matchmaking booksellers bring two lonely hearts together in time for Christmas?
In a sleepy, snow-covered city, Cora Crowder is busy preparing for the holiday season. Searching for a perfect gift, a fortuitous trip to Warner, Werner, and Wizbotterdad’s (a most unusual bookshop) leads to an unexpected encounter with co-worker Simon Derrick. And the surprise discovery of a ticket for a truly one-of-a-kind Christmas Ball.
About the Author (taken from her website): Donita K. Paul retired early from teaching school, but soon got bored! The result: a determination to start a new career. Now she is an award-winning novelist writing Christian Romance and Fantasy. She says, “I feel blessed to be doing what I like best.”She mentors all ages, teaching teenagers and weekly adult writing workshops.
“God must have imprinted 'teacher' on me clear down to the bone. I taught in public school, then home schooled my children, and worked in private schools. Now my writing week isn’t very productive unless I include some time with kids.” Her two grown children make her proud, and her two grandsons make her laugh.
My thoughts: Overall I enjoyed the story. It was an extremely quick read and the storyline was simply charming. It was a sweet romance. The two main characters work together and have for years but never noticed each other until the some old matchmakers get involved. One thing I really liked was this was not a typical "dating" story. The male lead, Simon, was interested in someone a woman who would be able to accept him and his family (parents and disabled sister). He was interested in courting as well. I thought these two elements were a fresh take on a romance.
One thing I did find interesting was this statement made mid-way through the book...."We don't believe in witches. Wizards are another thing. Old and wise, that's what the root of 'wizard' means. And did you know a wizard can be male or female?" Now let me just state that I enjoy fantasy novels. In fact, the Harry Potter books are favorites of mine. Having said that, I felt this statement a bit unnerving for some reason in a seemingly Christian novel. It seemed to me that the author was trying to justify the use of wizards in her story. I did not find it offensive, just curious.
In general I thought this a cute story and a fun read. Quick and simple. Although, I did think it ended too quickly. Given that it's a novella that's to be understand. But I'm always the reader that wants to know...what happened next?
You can purchase the book here.
Disclaimer: I am not paid for these book reviews. I am given copies of the books by the WaterBrook Multnomah Blogging for Books program to read in exchange for my review. Of course, this arrangement works well for me since I love to read! If you are interested in seeing how to get free books to review, click on the link in my side bar.
“God must have imprinted 'teacher' on me clear down to the bone. I taught in public school, then home schooled my children, and worked in private schools. Now my writing week isn’t very productive unless I include some time with kids.” Her two grown children make her proud, and her two grandsons make her laugh.
My thoughts: Overall I enjoyed the story. It was an extremely quick read and the storyline was simply charming. It was a sweet romance. The two main characters work together and have for years but never noticed each other until the some old matchmakers get involved. One thing I really liked was this was not a typical "dating" story. The male lead, Simon, was interested in someone a woman who would be able to accept him and his family (parents and disabled sister). He was interested in courting as well. I thought these two elements were a fresh take on a romance.
One thing I did find interesting was this statement made mid-way through the book...."We don't believe in witches. Wizards are another thing. Old and wise, that's what the root of 'wizard' means. And did you know a wizard can be male or female?" Now let me just state that I enjoy fantasy novels. In fact, the Harry Potter books are favorites of mine. Having said that, I felt this statement a bit unnerving for some reason in a seemingly Christian novel. It seemed to me that the author was trying to justify the use of wizards in her story. I did not find it offensive, just curious.
In general I thought this a cute story and a fun read. Quick and simple. Although, I did think it ended too quickly. Given that it's a novella that's to be understand. But I'm always the reader that wants to know...what happened next?
You can purchase the book here.
Disclaimer: I am not paid for these book reviews. I am given copies of the books by the WaterBrook Multnomah Blogging for Books program to read in exchange for my review. Of course, this arrangement works well for me since I love to read! If you are interested in seeing how to get free books to review, click on the link in my side bar.
hey! I got the same book for review! I decided not to read your review, as I am not done my book yet...when I am done and I post my review, I will come back and read yours!
ReplyDeleteI too found it disturbing that the author tried to make wizards appear to be good - almost implied they were doing God's work. I personally believe that those are angels and not wizards. Kind of a strange interpretation for a Christian author.
ReplyDelete