This book was so interesting and I shed more light on what it was like living during the age of when America was born. I know part of the book was fiction but it definitely stirred a sense of patriotism in me. Highly recommend.

I had a hard time through most of this book. I enjoyed the writing but honestly life in the circus (and the treatment of the animals) just made me uncomfortable, even though the author spoke the truth. And there were times where I felt the protagonist was lacking a spine. But I was so glad I stuck with the book. The last 15% of it packaged it all up in a bow for me and I finished the book with a smile on my face (what more could you want?)

Every single book by Amy Harmon I fall in love with. Some more than others, but it‘s love every time. This book is no different. Honestly this is probably more of a review of the author than this specific book, but at this point I don‘t even read the synopsis of a novel if I see it is by Ms. Harmon. It doesn‘t matter-it‘s added to my “to read list”. So much emotion-the whole range of the human spirit. Highly recommend any of her books.

Beautiful story. A bit predictable a few times, but still a lovely story. It evoked a wide range of emotions from me; I often could feel what the heroine was feeling. I sometimes don‘t care for time travel stories, but this one was well executed. I highly recommend.

It wasn‘t what I was expecting, but it was still a great book. I thought it would focus more on the mystery of finding a sister thought to be dead, but rather it chronicles the events of the childhood of sisters through their very different eyes and the impact of the past on their current lives.

I was very excited about the premise of the book, however I think the execution could have been a bit better. At about 6% in I became very excited when I thought I saw the direction the story was going, but then by 7% I realized that it wasn‘t going to quite fulfill my expectations. It was still a good read, kept me entertained, and even caused a few tears to be shed.

Warning-this book is EXTREMELY graphic when it comes to rape, torture, and murder. But if your stomach can handle it then I highly recommend the book. The author did a fantastic job with the way the story unfolds, layer after layer. It took me 2-3 hours before I became hooked to the story, but once I was it was hard to stop.

This book broke my heart. The tragedy that is Angel and Tess far exceeds star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet. I wasn‘t sure if I was going to enjoy this book when I first began to read it, having a vague idea of the premise. I am very glad that ventured on. This book is a classic for a reason.

This book has become one of my favorites. Jane‘s wholesomeness and devotion to God and His path really struck a cord. But beyond that, it‘s a great love story filled with moments of joy and times of grief. It‘s a classic for a reason!

Had a hard time rating this book. For the execution and writing I would give it a “pick”, however the book itself wasn‘t my cup of tea until I got to the last 10%. I just didn‘t like or respect any of the characters up to that point, which makes it hard for me to enjoy a book. But it did evoke intense emotion from me (just not positive emotion), which is a sign of an excellent novel. Very torn about this book but happy I read it!

I would give this book in between a so-so and a pick. The first 15-20% of the book was a bit slow and boring. I am glad I stayed with it though. I wasn‘t able to guess “who dun it” easily and the reason behind that person‘s actions seemed to align with their character. But some things seemed just a bit too easy for the crime solvers. All in all not a bad read.

Nearing the end of this book, I was conflicted. I wanted to read faster because I knew all of these lines running parallel were about to converge and I couldn‘t wait to see how the story would play out, and yet I didn‘t want to get to the end because I wasn‘t ready to say goodbye to these characters. So many times I found myself snickering at the witty dialog, my heart wrenching during the moments of pain, and loving every minute of the journey.

Decided to pick up this book after Bill Gates published his summer reading recommendations. As I am not yet done with the book, I will withhold commentary; however I will share this quote I enjoyed.

Third time is a charm right? I have tried to read this book 2 other times. The first time, I think I was too young. The second time was about a year ago. I then read an article on the main characters to make sure I was keeping them all straight in my mind and accidentally read some spoilers so I had to put the book down. It‘s time to pick it back up again. Here are some quotes I liked from today‘s reading.

Bit of truth rang clear as I was reading today. Interesting how insights from the late 1940s still apply today. Makes me wonder if humanity has evolved at all over the last 70 years...

Like a lot of people, this is my favorite Austen novel. You just can‘t go wrong with the wit, intellect, and strength of Miss Elizabeth Bennet. And of course the cast of supporting characters are entertaining as well. A sign of a truly great novel is that it contains truths that withstand the ages, as this book does.