Triple the Reviews - The Witch Tree, Amnesia Alibi, and When Love Collides

I have had the chance to do a fair bit of reading this summer, and I've realized that there is no way I can fit them all in on my regular Monday spot 'Reads, Reviews and Interviews' if I don't start doubling - even tripling them up! I've got three for you today. First up is a book by Karin Kaufman called THE WITCH TREE. Here is my review.

The Witch Tree by Karin Kaufman is a Christian novel about a woman who unwittingly gets involved with a group of modern day witches and must protect her reputation and ultimately, her life. Anna Denning  makes her living as a genealogist, researching other people’s family trees. When she shows up at a client’s house with her findings, she discovers the woman dead. Thus begins a tale that takes us into the minds and hearts of modern day witches, wiccans, druids and covens. Unknown to Anna, she was hired by a powerful practicing witch that has set up shop in the small tourist community where Anna lives. She soon finds herself in the witch’s ‘bad books’ as she tries to keep her good name intact and find out who really killed Sarah Muncy. I enjoyed the book for its mystery and the complexity of the tale. There was a lot of information about modern day occultish practices, which was interesting but not really up my alley. It was obvious that the author did her homework, though, so those that are interested in that topic will be pleased. As a Christian novel, it did not come across as preachy. Anna is a woman of faith, but she doesn’t try to convert everyone. Sometimes she seemed a bit headstrong – even foolish – in the way she jumped into the fray, but since this is a series, it is probably a character trait we will see in future instalments. I would recommend this book to Christian readers who are interested in the current culture’s fascination with witchcraft and paganism. This book was a surprise - not unpleasantly so.

Buy it on Amazon. 

Next is my review of  AMNESIA ALIBI by Anita K. May.

Amnesia Alibi by Anita K. May chronicles the lives of Tim and Leesa, a young couple whose relationship has been marred by broken trust and alcohol abuse. Ultimately, it points the way to a savior who can bring restoration and healing in even the most disastrous circumstances. Tim has a drinking problem which is threatening his marriage and his family. Things come to a head when he has an accident and one of his friends is killed. There are many poignant moments in the book and even some sinister activity which adds drama. I enjoyed the story as it unfolded and like the author’s voice. I will admit, sometimes the ‘evangelistic’ parts seemed long, but I suppose this is to make sure non-believers get the Christian message. To be honest, the book started out a bit slow for me. There was a fair bit of back story and perhaps too many points of view used. However, as I continued to read, things started to pick up and by the middle of the book I was genuinely engaged and wanted to finish it. In the end, I was glad that I did, as the story itself is believable, touching and full of hope.

Buy it at amazon 


Last, but not least, is Michelle Sutton's WHEN LOVE COLLIDES.  As you may have heard me comment, Michelle is becoming one of my favorite authors when it comes to romance and she certainly is an inspiration in her desire to reach real people and write stories that deal with human issues - sometimes even if there is some controversy involved. This was not my favorite Sutton book, but it certainly was well written and hits home in a variety of ways. I'm sure it will have an impact on many who read it. Here is my review. 

When Love Collides by Michelle Sutton is another in a long line up of romance novels from this prolific author. Raquel and Scott were best buddies during college, but went their separate ways when Raquel up and married someone else. Ten years later, Scott is a physician’s assistant and when Raquel shows up at the clinic due to some alarming and unexplainable symptoms, their paths cross again. Unknown to Raquel, Scott has been in love with her for all these years, and now that she is single again, they have a chance for a renewed relationship. Unfortunately, other circumstances beyond their control might ruin their budding romance. In some ways, this book reminded me of Nicholas Sparks. It’s a touching story with a realistic ending – you fill in the blanks. What I appreciate about this book, and others by this author, is her ability to write passionate, even sensual, love stories without the smut and that still have a very strong Christian theme. It is definitely ‘edgy’ in terms of typical Christian fiction, but still tasteful.

Buy it on amazon.