Considering Sparrows

Considering Sparrows: What Birds Teach Us About Who We Are, Where We’re Going, and the Joy of Following Jesus
By Kevin Burrell / Multnomah

The annotations you mark in an ebook tell an evidence-based story about your reading adventure. I just finished Considering Sparrows and the data shows I marked 189 highlighted sentences. Since these highlights are grouped by chapters, I can easily pick out my three most favorite chapters. Each of these favorites has twenty or more highlights. No chapter was sans highlights. This data proves beyond a doubt, I loved this book!

Bible and birds; you might think there’s not enough material on these two topics together to fill a 240-page book. But Kevin Burrell, a pastor and birder, has authored a book that sings like a nightingale and soars like an eagle. His knowledge of scripture and ornithology is extensive and accurate. From beginning to end, the book is filled with insightful analogies. All are pearls of wisdom to treasure. The book’s layout is enhanced by Burrell’s focus on the book of Philippians. Each chapter begins with a selected verse from this scriptural letter and then in the following paragraphs Burrell expands on themes related to this verse.

Readers can invest confidently in Burrell’s conclusions since his experience with birds is current and wide-ranging. He references the highly popular Merlin app, thousands of individuals around the world use to accurately identify birds. The retelling of his field experiences across the globe solidifies his credentials. He includes references to birding in India, Costa Rica, Spain, Mexico, and Panama to name just a few.

Burrell’s thoughtful book is a pleasure to read. His style includes humor, popular references, and draws quotes from both religious giants and illustrious avian writers.

As a former twenty-year librarian, I think I might be hard pressed to figure out the best place to shelve this book. Should it be assigned to the religion section or nestled in the non-fiction books on birds. Just for fun, I asked CHATgbt for an answer. The AI generated answer recommended shelving it alongside other bird books, especially since sparrows are featured in the title. But I’ve decided the best place I would shelve Considering Sparrows once it’s spot on the new books section expired, is to give it a perpetual “Staff Picks” favorite designation.

Considering Sparrows by Kevin Burrell will appear in bookstores and online on March 24, 2026. I read an advanced readers copy supplied by the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. #ConsideringSparrows #NetGalley

The Westerners: Mythmaking and Belonging on the American Frontier

New Release from Megan Kate Nelson

Publication Date: April 2026

I found The Westerners to read one night when I was browsing lists of upcoming releases. The description of both the author’s background and the book’s theme caught my eye. Megan Kate Nelson is a new author to me and I love to read a great history book. After turning the last page, it’s clear this book will have a tremendous impact on how we view our growth as a nation.

The rose colored glasses are off and this is a clear-eyed view of western development.

I have traveled throughout Montana and the Three Forks region. Consequently I was totally immersed in the opening chapters on the Lewis and Clark Expedition and the up-close review of Sacajawea’s life and her impact on this exploration.

All other western people Nelson featured made this book come to life. The book is simultaneously a great academic resource and top-shelf story you will find hard to put down. Her prose is so accessible. As I think back over the book, I’m impressed by the absolute diversity of the stories she told. Yet one common thread links all their biographies. The historical record for these individuals is marred by misinformation and blatant instances of omission. Each person experienced prejudice and oppression for breaking the mold and pushing the boundaries. Qualities that are frequently celebrated for some, but rarely in the lives of minorities like women, multi-racial individuals, and immigrants.

I rate this book highly since the text piqued my interest in so many additional areas that I want to investigate further. Plus I’m more likely to choose one of the author’s previous books since I was so engaged in this one. History buffs who choose The Westerners will happily recommend the book, but maybe not loan it out to others. It’s a “keeper” for your personal library to keep front and center among your most favorite reads that have made a lasting impact. I reviewed an advanced reader copy supplied to me through Netgalley by the publisher in exchange for my honest review. The book is scheduled to be released and in bookstores in April 2026.

The Fault Between Us

The Fault Between Us
By Stephanie Landsem / Tyndale Fiction

The Fault Between Us

By Stephanie Landsem

Five stars. Loved it. I chose this book because the setting captured my attention. The vivid characters each with their own well developed and diverse personalities kept me hooked. Once the natural disaster became central to the story, the plot moved at a breakneck pace. I enjoyed this book from cover to cover. The Christian message is overt and the timing of each person’s reflection on faith is spot on.

Despite a good portion of the plot being tied to a natural disaster, it’s a story full of heart. Relationships are redeemed. Hope soars to an apex and then drops precipitously to its nadir, but never leaves. Hope, renewal and restoration triumph in the end.

Following the book I immediately researched the true facts of this historical event. I loved how accurately the author covered the facts and crafted such a multi-layered novel around this earthquake. I would choose another book by Stephanie Landsem with expectations of enjoying a great historical fiction book with great attention to detail and an engaging plot.

I read an advanced copy of this ebook supplied to me by Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

The Highland Heist

#4 in the Freddie and Grace Mystery Series

The Highland Heist
By Pepper Basham / Barbour Fiction

The setting captured my attention. The Scottish castle, village, and characters delivered an engaging twist to the storyline. Such a great book. The pace was excellent and the vibrant characters were brought to life in a realistic plot. I had not read previous books in this series titled the Freddie and Grace Mysteries. This novel is book #4. I was able to jump right into the series and not miss a beat. This book delivers mystery, drama, action, and some fun dialogue. I appreciate the “can-do” attitudes of the protagonists. The ups and downs of the relationship between the two sisters is spot on accurate. Thank you to Netgalley for an ARC to review and give my honest opinion. #TheHighlandHeist #NetGalley

Last Light Over Galveston

Last Light over Galveston
By Jennifer L. Wright / Tyndale Fiction

This book will be released for publication on Aug. 12, 2025

This is an excellent novel you’ll love to read! Jennifer Wright always delivers stories with unforgettable characters in captivating settings. This book based both in Galveston, Texas and Hudson Valley, New York delivers a story with a powerful punch. One plot line is tied to the devastating hurricane that brought its wrath down on Galveston in 1900. The population was unaware since the Weather Bureau was in its infancy. Wright displays her master level writing skills when she describes the sights and sounds of Galveston before and after the hurricane. Her prose grabs our senses. The hurricane’s catastrophic nature comes to life with each paragraph and page turn.

The book has a strong Christian theme that is stated overtly at the conclusion. In life people are often disappointed by family and friends. In Last Light Over Galveston, our main character, Kathleen Ann McDaniel, experiences emotional pain inflicted by her father who blurts out hurtful words just as the plot takes a treacherous turn. Her father is her only remaining parent. All his actions are driven by his greed and self-centered agenda. The disappointment he causes in Kathleen’s life leaves a gaping hole in her heart. At this point, she flees her upscale Hudson Valley home and eventually arrives at an orphanage in Galveston. She assumes a new identity and tries to hideout in this sheltered community while caring for orphans. The hurricane touches down just as she is making preparations to go on the run once again.

Kathleen eventually builds authentic bonds of friendship and mutual respect with most of the supporting characters. Wesley’s point of view shines a light on the poor working conditions and exploitation of immigrant labor at this point in history. Matthew and Maggie are characters to love. Readers will cheer for the future path Matthew, Kathleen and Maggie choose when the wind dies and the flood waters subside.

Non-fiction Christian writers encourage people to fill their broken heart’s gaping hole with faith and a personal relationship with the Lord; the One who is steadfast in love and mercy and is always for us. In Last Light over Galveston, Jennifer Wright’s novel arrives at the same conclusion. Kathleen’s earthly father disappointed her, but she finds healing for her heart through faith and trust in the Lord. This is my honest review in exchange for receiving this ARC from NetGalley and Tyndale Fiction. #LastLightoverGalveston, #NetGalley

Cloaked in Beauty

Cloaked in Beauty, Softcover, #3
By Karen Witemeyer / Bethany House

This book is a fun and enjoyable love story set in Texas beginning in 1881 . I chose it to read because I do like “journey stories”. An heiress to a shipping fortune on route back to her childhood home is guarded by a Pinkerton Agent. The young lady’s villainous uncle is committed to thwarting her arrival and makes plans to bring about her demise. The Pinkerton Agent is fully occupied keeping her safe. Along the way, major accidents and harrowing adventures threaten to keep them from their destination. The two main characters Letty Hood (aka Scarlett Radcliffe) and Philip Carmichael discover a deep admiration and abiding love for each other. The author portrays them both as capable and wise. Throughout the story they most often act unselfishly and care deeply about social justice. At first glance the wealthy heiress and traveling security guard may not seem like they could make a future together work, but the author resolves this perfectly. Reader’s will be happy with the conclusion. I also like the elements that gave a nod to fairy tales. There were many instances when what you might expect was turned upside down. For example: While Letty Hood needed protection, she was not damsel in distress. Her country upbringing while in hiding with her grandmother allowed her to acquire a range of skills that helped to keep her safe until she could reach her twenty-first birthday, return home, and claim her inheritance. The other element turned on its head was the wolf’s role in the story. No big bad wolf here. Just a loyal companion named “Rusty” who is a main character in his own right. The duo of Letty and Philip aren’t going to Grandma’s instead they leave her and make the journey away from her home, only to be reunited with her later. A true “fracture fairy tale” and a fun story to read. This book is Book #3 in the Texas Ever After Series

I read an ARC supplied by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. #CloakedinBeauty, #NetGalley

Recommended for the New Year

When Stars Light the Sky
By Elizabeth Camden / Bethany House

Look for this book when it is released in January 2025. I highly recommend it for historical fiction fans. This book is excellent with smooth writing that is a pleasure to read and flows at a superb pace. The setting and perspective of the characters make this book a standout. I loved learning about an ambassador’s role and the varied duties of his highly qualified staff. The main character Inga is a protagonist with a heaping measure of heart, talent, and charm. Benedict is portrayed vividly and to the reader he is equal parts intelligent, thoughtful, ambitious, and annoying. The conclusion is just what the reader hoped for, yet I never saw the plot resolving the way it did. A delightful surprise.

While some of us may know some general details about World War I, this book with a focus on America’s Embassy in Germany during this tumultuous time offered a good overview into the issues of the era. Even though our nation hoped to stay neutral and out of Europe’s turmoil, events made neutrality impossible. By the story’s end, America declared war and entered the conflict. The historical facts were accurately woven into the story in a way that added to the novel.

This is the second book in the series Elizabeth Camden has titled The Women of Midtown. The parts of the story that shared a glimpse of life in New York City during this time period were well done and highly engaging. I expect to read book one in the series based on how much I enjoyed the sequel. I read an ARC from NetGalley. #WhenStarsLighttheSky #NetGalley

Unforgotten

Unforgotten, Softcover
By Shelley Shepard Gray / Revell

I was interested to read a different genre created by an author I haven’t read before so I requested Unforgotten by Shelley Shepard Gray to read. While this book fits the Amish Fiction category, there is a parallel plot with “English” people to enjoy. I enjoyed the action in middle most of all. The villain was well developed at all points in the story. The author created a cast of great female protagonists with life experiences that are realistic. The ladies, who are cousins, are celebrated for their good sense and bravery in the face of danger. Cynics with their hearts on lockdown might not care for some parts of the two love stories. The men, cast as knights in shining armor, overflow with devotion to their fair maidens. At some points, their dialogue seemed a little over the top for me. But the men were good hearted characters with good intentions even if they seemed a little possessive.

The author shared a realistic view of Amish daily life. I think the reason we like to read Amish Fiction is because we admire the Amish populations’ productivity and steadfast faith. Throughout this book, the men and women, demonstrated these traits.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher Revell in exchange for this honest review. #Unforgotten, #RevellFiction!

Where the Rivers Merge

Add this book to your “Want to Read” list and buy it as soon as it arrives from the publisher next spring. I read an ARC and throughly enjoyed this book. It’s a wonderful novel in a stellar setting. The protagonist’s life story growing up on a rice and horse farm in South Carolina is engaging. I grew to care deeply about every thrilling personal victory and tragic heartache. Just when I anticipated one plot twist the tale would go to an unexpected but pleasantly surprising new place. The story had great pace and while I’ve grown lukewarm about split time novels this one really sings! All historic details were accurate and made this time period in the Low Country of South Carolina’s coast come alive.
The author, Mary Alice Monroe, tells us in her notes this is a story about conservation and love of land. She certainly delivered on this and so much more! I look forward to the sequel.
#WheretheRiversMerge

Tea with Elephants

Tea with Elephants: A Suitcase Sisters Novel, Softcover, #1
By Robin Jones Gunn / Revell

Just when I thought tea with honey was the cat’s meow, now here comes Tea with Elephants to catapult to the top spot. Of course one is a beverage and the other is a new release from Robin Jones Gunn, so it’s not an apples-to-apples comparison. But reading this book will yield the same comfy and cozy benefits. Guaranteed! I can only list superlatives to describe this book. I chose to read Tea with Elephants due to the African setting. Robin Jones Gunn expertly describes the savannah and the African animal life. She offers a realistic safari ride-along complete with sensible cautions for lion spotting and one predator/prey sighting. I immediately drew close to the main characters she named the “Suitcase Sisters”. The two women met decades ago while serving as counselors at a Christian conference center in Costa Rica. Now all grown up, the duo celebrates their long-term, long-distance friendship by reuniting for an African adventure.

Each woman has faced recent challenges. Fern experiences a life-altering set back when she is let go from her dream job just prior to embarking on her trip. Her marriage to a wonderful man with a teenage adoptive son was at first a rocky road. Eventually their family life smoothed out and this blended family landed in a good place. Lily fears she is losing her zeal for love and life after decades of marriage and child rearing. The two friends face these challenges head on. When the time is right, a good heart to heart talk helps both ladies see a brighter future.

I love that each chapter begins with an African proverb, Bible verse, or literary quote. Each one is worthy of printing on the tags attached to tea bags. The Christian message was explicit from beginning to end. I noticed Tea with Elephants is book one in a series featuring the “Suitcase Sisters”. I look forward to reading book 2 when it releases in January 2025. I recommend these books to readers who enjoy a well written contemporary fiction story with characters who wrestle with real-life problems and rely on their faith to stay strong. I received a complimentary paperback copy from the publisher Revell in exchange for my honest review. #TeaWithElephants and #RevellFiction!