The Sheepish Scribe

Central Park Rendezvous by Ronie Kendig

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


A charming collection of stories that follow a family - albeit in a hopscotch fashion - through the Civil War, WWII, Vietnam and finally the Iraq War.  A special coin that pre-dates the Civil War is passed from father to son and carries a special meaning through the years.  At first I was confused by the layout of the book.  It starts with the most modern story and works its way back in time, with breaks back to the modern story.  But it works and it's a nice look at the changes - and the similarities - of people across time.  Suitable for any age, I highly recommend this one.

Deep in the Heart by Gilbert Morris

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


I've enjoyed Gilbert Morris' books for many years, but this one fell short for me.  I realize it's book one in a series, but it didn't seem to go anywhere.  The characters are good and if you're interested in the history surrounding the Alamo - that's all good.  This author does history very well.  But I thought the plot was weak and the resolution didn't really deliver.  This won't deter me, however, from remaining a loyal Morris fan.  :)

Victory at Yorktown: A Novel by Newt Gingrich

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


The third in their trilogy regarding George Washington and the Revolution - this is without doubt their best book.  Riveting for any history buff, the behind-the-scenes view of Washington's inner circle and the details of the siege are fascinating.  Woven in the midst is a heart-wrenching story of two friends caught on opposite sided of the battle. More than worth the read but should be read in order to understand fully the story of the two friends.  Highly recommend this trilogy!

Sofia's Secret by Sharlene MacLaren

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Set in 1930, the stigma of her pregnancy keeps Sofia Rogers quiet as much as the threats from her attacker.  When handsome young doctor Eli Trent shows up and starts poking around, Sofia works harder to keep her secret and protect her young brother.  An unlikely romance threaded through with a mystery, this story is engaging and entertaining.  Highly recommended for older high school and above due to the subject matter - which is very well handled.

The Crusader: Ronald Reagan and the Fall of Communism by Paul Kengor

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Loved this story as it focused on just one aspect of Ronald Reagan on his presidency.  The book is about his personal war against communism and the Soviet Union. Truly an inspiring read!  Even if you were not a fan of Reagan, you can appreciate his dedication to what he felt was an egregious human rights violation.

The most shocking thing - to me - was the information about Ted Kennedy and his attempts to contact Yuri Andropov to help sway the American Presidential Election in 1984.  Incredible.  I'd never heard that before but Paul Kengor presented plenty of evidence from the Kremlin, no less. 

If you're at all interested in the history of the Berlin Wall and its historic fall - this is a book for you!

Rodeo Dust by Shannon Taylor Vannatter

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


A light romp around the edges of rodeo life.  Rayna Landers is attracted to bull rider Clay Warren but not to his occupation.  The tension created is very believable and makes for a nice story.  No spoiler here, but I thought the ending a bit - well - it wrapped up a little too tidy for me.  However, the dialog and details of the rodeo scene made it worth the read. 

Nightwatch by Valerie Hansen
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A heartwarming story about love and family. Jill Kirkpatrick and Mitch Andrews have been friends since Jill's husband died in an accident. When a couple from their church is killed, Jill and Mitch team together to take care of the three orphaned children. When the youngest child is stolen, tensions rise and priorities change. A sweet story suitable for any age. You can see the ending coming a mile away, but it's still worth the read.