![]() Buy this book! Click on the cover Mercy Come Morning by Lisa Tawn Bergren Publisher's Note: Krista Mueller is in a good place. She’s got a successful career as a professor of history; she’s respected and well-liked; and she lives hundreds of miles from her hometown and the distant mother she could never please. It’s been more than a decade since Alzheimer’s disease first claimed Charlotte Mueller’s mind, but Krista has dutifully kept her mother in a first-class nursing home. Now Charlotte is dying of heart failure and, surprised by her own emotions, Krista rushes to Taos, New Mexico, to sit at her estranged mother’s side as she slips away. Battling feelings of loss, abandonment, and relief, Krista is also unsettled by her proximity to Dane McConnell, director of the nursing home—and, once upon a time, her first love. Dane’s kind and gentle spirit—and a surprising discovery about her mother—make Krista wonder if she can at last close the distance between her and her mother … and open the part of her heart she thought was lost forever. Overall Review: There are times when we are hard on ourselves and don’t allow ourselves to have happiness because we don’t feel that we deserve it. This is Krista Mueller’s life motto—she’s successful in her job, but not in her personal life. She pushes everyone away constantly. Once she hears that her mother is dying, she finally faces all of her old ‘skeletons’. As horrible as Alzheimer’s is, this book is very hopeful, positive and optimistic about it without making it feel trite. I felt so much empathy for Krista as she discovered more about her mother (and, in this process, herself) and all that happened in the past. There is a lot of back and forth between Krista’s past and present, but it flowed very well and I never felt confused. I enjoyed all the history both about New Mexico and the world at large. The culture of New Mexico presented here was very beautiful! It made me want to go there and see for myself! Mercy Come Morning is all about relationships—between parent/child, between boyfriend/girlfriend, between husband/wife, between friends. It’s all about stepping into someone else’s shoes—about stepping out of yourself and taking a good look at what has gone on, or is going on around you! It is a journey of coming together and gaining understanding; a sweet reminder that while life is tough and can be harsh and full of pain and misunderstandings and tears, we can find joy and peace all around us if we just open our eyes and look. A lovely and uplifting Sunday afternoon read! Overall rating is 4 out of 5 stars! Content Review: PROFANITY: None VIOLENCE: A few mild instances SEXUAL CONTENT: A few mild to moderate instances MATURE THEMES: Moderate RECOMMENDED AGE GROUP: 18+ There is no profanity, however this is a very Christian book so be prepared for many prayers and petitions to heaven. As far as violence, it is all very mild. A character slaps another. The death tolls of some wars are mentioned. There are some characters who die due to various causes: war, old age, sickness. There is some sexual content. There are allusions to a character having various men overnight (this happens fairly often). A character is sexually assaulted. Both of these instances are necessary to the plot and are handled very well without description. Two characters kiss. There are many moderate mature themes: Death of loved ones, Alzheimer’s, dealing with abuse (both physical and mental), taking care of a mentally sick parent. Some other mild themes are forgiveness, self-discovery and discovery of one’s past. Mercy Come Morning is recommended as a Clean Read for ages 18+! This review was written by Emily A Squeaky Clean Reads Book Reviewer This book was sent to Squeaky Clean Reads by Waterbrook Multnomah for a review See content reviews for similar titles: Add Comment ![]() Buy this book! Click on the cover Beyond All Measure by Dorothy Love Publisher's Note: Unless she can trust God's love to cast out her fears, Ada may lose the heart of a good man. Ada Wentworth, a young Bostonian, journeys to Hickory Ridge, Tennessee, in the years following the Civil War. Alone and nearly penniless following a broken engagement, Ada accepts a position as a lady's companion to the elderly Lillian Willis, a pillar of the community and aunt to the local lumber mill owner, Wyatt Caldwell. Ada intends to use her millinery skills to establish a hat shop and secure her future. Haunted by unanswered questions from her life in Boston, Ada is most drawn to two townsfolks: Wyatt, a Texan with big plans of his own, and Sophie, a mulatto girl who resides at the Hickory Ridge orphanage. Ada's friendship with Sophia attracts the attention of a group of locals seeking to displace the residents of Two Creeks, a "colored" settlement on the edge of town. As tensions rise, Ada is threatened but refuses to abandon her plan to help the girl. When Lillian dies, Ada is left without employment or a place to call home. And since Wyatt's primary purpose for staying in Hickory Ridge was to watch over his aunt, he can now pursue his dream of owning Longhorns in his home state of Texas. With their feelings for each other growing, Ada must decide whether she can trust God with her future and Wyatt with her heart. Overall Review: In Beyond All Measure, author Dorothy Love welcomes readers to the “peaceful and close-knit town” of Hickory Ridge. Now that the Civil War has ended, townsfolk eagerly participate in pastimes like ladies’ quilting circles, church pageants and holiday picnics. The novel’s rich, vivid and detailed imagery will leave readers wanting to pack up and move to a small Southern town! Yet Hickory Ridge has its share of dark secrets. Tensions have escalated between the town’s blacks and whites, all while the Ku Klux Klan terrify and carry out grisly deeds. In the midst of the turmoil, Wyatt, the town’s golden boy, finds himself falling for beautiful newcomer, Ada. Scenes involving Wyatt were some of the best -- he is the epitome of a true Southern gentleman. Ada’s complicated actions and mysterious past made this book a page-turner. The couple’s sweet, budding romance also helped lighten the story’s heavier themes. Beyond All Measure was noticeably well-researched and I loved catching a glimpse of life and love in the postbellum South. Overall rating is 4 out of 5 stars! Content Review: PROFANITY: none VIOLENCE: mild, with one moderate incident SEXUAL CONTENT: mild MATURE THEMES: mild RECOMMENDED AGE GROUP: 16+ Beyond All Measure is Christian historical fiction, so it is fairly conservative. There is frequent discussion about God and His role in the characters’ lives. There was no profanity. The word ‘negro’ is spoken by characters; it was commonly used during this time period. Attacks conducted by the Ku Klux Klan are briefly stated and include hanging, shooting and burning crosses in lawns. Moderate violence occurs when a main character is threatened, beaten by the Klansmen, and tied up. The character subsequently soils herself. There is mention of a Civil War battle but this is not graphically detailed. A character dies of old age. Kissing occurs between the main characters. There is a slight reference to being unfaithful and having a child out of wedlock. Mature themes include the racial tension of postbellum Tennessee and the motives behind the Ku Klux Klan. Beyond All Measure is a clean read recommended for ages 16+! This review was written by Rachel A Squeaky Clean Reads Book Reviewer This book was sent to Squeaky Clean Reads by Thomas Nelson for a review See Content Reviews for Similar Books: The Evolution of Thomas Hall by Kieth Merrill Publisher's Note: Thomas Hall is a brilliant but brash young artist who has the talent of the old masters and an eye for color and women. But when he runs short of cash, he finds himself torn between illustrating a mural on the origins of man for a natural history museum a tribute to Darwin and illustrating the miracles of Jesus for a display inside a children s hospital called the Healing Place. A self-proclaimed agnostic, Thomas must dig deep within himself to believe beyond his doubts as he wrestles with that elusive something called faith. Then he meets a young, critically ill girl named Christina. Her haunting past and undeviating faith will test the very soul of Thomas and that of every reader. Overall Review: The Evolution Of Thomas Hall has a little bit of everything—art, music, romance, conflict, miracles, and, most importantly, a journey of faith. Thomas Hall is a talented artist and self-professed agnostic . . . the last person anyone would expect to accept a job painting a 90-foot mural of Christ's miracles for a new Catholic children's hospital. I found myself completely captivated by Thomas, Cass, Christina, and their story. Although this book isn't what you would classify as a "page-turner," I couldn't put it down! Thomas's internal conflict, and his "evolution" over the course of the story, was readable and compelling. Although initially Merrill's characters felt a little flat to me, by the end of the novel I was deeply attached to all of them and impressed by the depth of personality each of them possessed. The details Merrill used in the book had all been given obvious research; I was fascinated by the wealth of detail about the act of painting, music, modern medicine, Charles Darwin, and famous art inspired by the Bible. I am a violinist myself, and it's been a long time since I read a description of a violin that was so detailed it even talked about "purfling" (the narrow black binding inlaid around the edge of a violin)! All the details added depth and richness to the story rather than detracting from it, and made it easy to feel at home in Thomas Hall's world. Like every book, Thomas Hall has its share of imperfections, including a few events or happenings that feel underdone or contrived. Overall, however, I really enjoyed the book and would definitely recommend it to anyone interesting in a compelling, thought-provoking read! Overall rating is 4.5 out of 5 stars. Content Review: PROFANITY: A few mild instances, two or three moderate instances VIOLENCE: Mild to moderate SEXUAL CONTENT: Mild MATURE THEMES: Very Mild RECOMMENDED AGE GROUP: 18+ Although the book does not deal directly with the LDS faith (except for a passing reference to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir), the author's LDS background makes for a very clean read. There are two or three instances of moderate profanity (no more than one word each time) throughout the book, and several instances where it is implied that a character uses foul language (i.e. "He swore" or "The sentence trailed off into a string of profanities"). There is some mild violence; a man tries to commit suicide by jumping off a bridge, a character returns home to find his house in fire (arson), one character does his best to make life miserable for the people around him through underhanded legal means. Early in the book, a horrific car accident is described and a child is badly injured in a resulting fire. There is mild sexual content as well; women are described as having attractive figures, looking good in bathing suits, and altering their appearance to increase their sex appeal. Male characters fantasize about female characters wearing bikinis. In one scene, a character recognizes that he is thinking with his libido rather than his brain. Some mature themes are discussed; most of the novel revolves around the central character's quest to discover if God exists. Severe injury, death, and the afterlife are also themes in the book. Everything in this book is presented in a very positive way; nothing ever feels gratuitous or over-the-top, but the content and subject matter make the book more appropriate for older audiences. This book is recommended as a Clean Read for ages 18+. This review was written by Cindy A Squeaky Clean Reads Book Reviewer This book was sent to Squeaky Clean Reads by Cedar Fort for a review Book Review: Wasatch Summer by Anola Pickett 05/24/2011
![]() Buy this book! Click on the cover Wasatch Summer by Anola Pickett Publisher's Note: While eleven-year-old Hannah Turner cares for the family's sheep alone in the mountains, she faces the most unlikely dangers - from snakes to Indians to the Bear Lake monster. This delightful coming-of-age novel will enthrall young and old alike as Hannah learns to overcome fears and trust in herself to make the right decisions. Overall Review: What would life be like as an 11 year-old in the late 1800’s? In Wasatch Summer, we are given a glimpse of a somewhat typical summer for a young LDS person in the Cache Valley. The Turner’s have two major incomes—their small harvest, and their sheep. With the passing of her father and no word from her older brother, young Hannah Turner is given the task of taking care of the sheep. There’s a catch, though. To keep the crops safe from the roaming grazes of the sheep, and to make sure the sheep have the best grazing grounds possible, Hannah must take them up the mountains—to stay—for the whole summer—alone! She must cook all her own meals, find things to do to while away the time, and face down all manner of wild creatures (including bears and coyotes)! She makes friends with Indians and meets with other lonely shepherds. Hannah learns to care for herself and her sheep, to look for beauty everywhere, to make friends with unlikely people, and to finish the tasks that have been set before her. I enjoyed Hannah’s ‘voice’—what a cute girl! It was amazing to me to see how fast these children had to grow up by taking on responsibilities that even adults would balk at—I can’t imagine sending an 11 year-old up for a whole summer alone in the mountains! Wasatch Summer is based on a true story. It is a wonderful look into life long ago and an inspiring story of courage for all ages. Overall rating is 4 out of 5 stars. Content Review: PROFANITY: None SEXUAL CONTENT: None VIOLENCE: A few mild instances MATURE THEMES: Mild RECOMMENDED AGE GROUP: 9+ This is a very clean book. No profanity; no sex; the violence is all attributed to a bear in the valley who kills a person, and also a coyote who kills some animals. I considered the theme to be mild only because the entire story is about a girl surviving on her own and she has to endure some frightening experiences. This is a lovely story aimed mostly toward a young LDS audience, but could be enjoyed by anyone. ‘Wasatch Summer’ is a Squeaky Clean Read and appropriate for ages 9+. This review was written by Emily A Squeaky Clean Reads Book Reviewer This book was sent to Squeaky Clean Reads by Cedar Fort for a review ![]() Buy this book! Click on the cover Beguiled by Deeanne Gist and J. Mark Bertrand Publisher's Note: In the shadows of Charleston, someone is watching her...Rylee Monroe, a dogwalker in Charleston's wealthiest neighborhood, never feared the streets at night. But now a thief is terrorizing the area and worse, someone seems to be targeting her. Reporter Logan Woods is covering the break-ins with the hope of publishing them as a true-crime book. The more he digs, the more he realizes this beguiling dogwalker seems to be at the center of everything. As danger draws ever closer, Logan must choose: Chase the girl, the story, or plunge into the shadows after the villain who threatens everything? Overall Review: Who knew that walking dogs and feeding cats could be so dangerous? Rylee just wants to make ends meet and really enjoys her job with the animals of the ‘Upper Crust’. Until she walks in during a robbery! From that point on, she’s scared, accused, acquitted, accused again, and finds out some truths along the way that completely turn her life upside down. Her path crosses early on with a reporter/novelist/crime fighter/baseball player, Logan Woods, who mostly just wants a chance to show the world that he can cut it as a writer. From their first meeting, the sparks fly! They seesaw between respect, distrust, friendship and love as they dig their way through the history of Rylee’s life, and the town itself, to find some answers! It was quite fun to read a book written by two different authors. You can almost hear the individual voices of both authors, but the writing meshed very well to make a really fabulous Christian romantic suspense novel. You always know when it’s Ms. Gist’s turn to describe something, as it will somehow contain her trademark romance lines (which can be a little cheesy at times): Lots of ‘muscles’ and ‘smooth lines’ involved. ‘Beguiled’ is a page turner! You want to strangle the Detective, hug the next door neighbor, and get a job walking dogs (or maybe raising crickets for a tree frog)! Overall rating is 4.5 out of 5 stars! Content Review: PROFANITY: Two mild exclamations SEXUAL CONTENT: A few very mild instances VIOLENCE: Many mild instances MATURE THEMES: Mild RECOMMENDED AGE GROUP: 16+ For being a romance and a suspense thriller, it was VERY clean indeed! Only twice are there any profanities used, and even then I don’t know that I would even consider it really profanity (two different characters say, “Thank…” in relief that things were ok, and considering there was a Christian undertone to the novel, it may very well be considered a prayer). There was hardly any sexual content—a few slight innuendoes here and there; two characters kiss a few times; but really, beyond that, there was nothing questionable. There was violence, but it was low-key and played down from what it could have been. There are robberies, but no one is hurt. One character is evil, and admits to killing people/animals and watching them being killed and keeping momentos—but that isn’t until the very end, and is also handled well. Two characters are cut with a knife while taking down a third. There are themes of false accusations/circumstantial evidence, dealing with loss—physically, mentally and spiritually, and being afraid. If you like suspense with romance in the mix, you can’t go wrong with ‘Beguiled’. This is most definitely a clean read for ages 16+. This review was written by Emily A Squeaky Clean Reads Book Reviewer This book was sent to Squeaky Clean Reads by Bethany House for a review Book Review: Maid to Match by Deeanne Gist 05/16/2011
![]() Buy this book! Click on the cover Maid to Match by Deeanne Gist Publisher's Note: From the day she arrives at the Biltmore, Tillie Reese is dazzled--by the riches of the Vanderbilts and by Mack Danvers, a mountain man turned footman. When Tillie is enlisted to help tame Mack's rugged behavior by tutoring him in the ways of refined society, the resulting sparks threaten Tillie's efforts to be chosen as Edith Vanderbilt's lady's maid. But the stakes rise even higher when Mack and Tillie become entangled in a cover-up at the town orphanage. They could both lose their jobs...and their hearts. Overall Review: Deeanne Gist knows how to write a romance novel. Her characters are fun and full of sparkle. The research she has done is evident as you can ‘see’ the places she describes: Biltmore (the Vanderbilt ‘castle’), the Unakas mountains, downtown Asheville. But it doesn’t just stay with the places. There was the period clothing and hairstyles—complete with ball gowns and starched aprons; the books read during that time—such as ‘The Prince and the Pauper’ and ‘Ivanhoe’; the parlor games and barn dances—which were great fun and made me want to write down some of the games to use at my next house party! We also get an inside look at what it takes to be a servant: how to serve in the correct manner with the correct style and all the training and effort it takes. One of the things I loved about this novel was the fact that Tillie wasn’t one of the usual heroines who is a servant and dreams of one day becoming a lady or a duchess, perhaps. In fact, she loves just being a servant! She takes joy in her service and can’t imagine wanting or needing anything else. She has aspirations of becoming the next Lady’s Maid for Mrs. Vanderbilt and it looks good for her. Of course, there enters the love of her life—he’s a servant, too! Imagine that! It’s fun to watch the romance bloom, and I do have to admit that I loved Mack, gentleman that he is! ‘Maid to Match’ is a lovely and predictable historical Christian romance with all the twists and turns that make a story enjoyable. And when it’s over, you can smile and give the required sigh as you sit on the couch with absolutely no desire to do the dishes. Overall rating is 4 out of 5 stars. Content Review: PROFANITY: A few very mild instances SEXUAL CONTENT: Mild throughout VIOLENCE: A few mild instances MATURE THEMES: Mild RECOMMENDED AGE GROUP: 16+ Since this is a romance novel, there is some sexual content, but it was very clean and on the ‘up and up’ for the most part. The two main characters fall in love and there is always the ‘anticipation’ and the kisses, but it never goes further than that until they are married, and even that stays ‘behind locked doors’. There is a brothel in the town and it is mentioned as being used often, as well as recruiting young girls—not so nice. As far as profanity, there are a few mild exclamations—probably less than 5. Some of the characters get into a lot of fights, but it’s all fisticuffs. One character abuses children (especially girls) but there is no in-depth look into that—another character accuses him of it, and later it is proven. One character dies from a beating. Everything is well handled and inoffensive. If you are looking for a clean romance novel, this would be a good choice! This is a clean read for ages 16+. This review was written by Emily A Squeaky Clean Reads Book Reviewer This book was sent to Squeaky Clean Reads by Bethany House for a review ![]() Buy this book! Click on the cover The Canary List by Sigmund Brouwer Publisher's Note: Protected by the dark of night, Jaimie Piper runs. But is anywhere safe when Evil is hunting you? She’s just a twelve year-old girl, bumped around between foster homes and relegated to school classes for challenged kids, those lagging in their test scores or with behavioral issues. But her real problem is that she can sense something the other kids can’t—something dark. Something compelling her to run for her life. All Crockett Grey wants is to mark the anniversary of his daughter’s death alone. But when his student Jaimie comes to him, terrified, her need for protection collides with his grief, and a tangled web of bizarre events sends them both spiraling toward destruction. Crockett’s one hope of getting his life back is to uncover the mysterious secrets of Jaimie’s past and her strange gift. It isn’t long before his discoveries lead him to a darker conspiracy, secrets guarded by the highest seat of power in the world—the Vatican. Overall Review: This book made me want to double lock my doors, arm the alarm system and put bars on the windows. Seriously scary stuff!! We are tossed into a web of lies, deceit, power, and secrecy that is centered within the highest powers of the Vatican. Crockett Grey, a regular teacher with his own stack of personal problems, becomes embroiled in something way over his head, all because a student comes to him for help and he cares enough to do something. We watch as the 'powers that be' first try to destroy him career-wise, then threaten his family, then his life; then comes the backpedaling as ‘they’ realize that maybe Crockett could be useful after all. It was especially astonishing to note the incredible amount of power, influence, and ability of just a few people with the ‘right’ connections. I thought I had it all figured out…and I did, until right at the end where there was this totally unexpected twist that left you doing a double take—What?!? Amazing how ambiguous the truth becomes when politics enter! And to what lengths people will go to protect something they believe in—or to protect themselves personally and financially! We are left to wonder—what was real? And we find ourselves out in the cold wondering about the truth once again. ‘The Canary List’ is a solid and seriously suspenseful psychological thriller, but watch out for the ‘Hitchcock-esque’ ending! Overall rating is 4 out of 5 stars. Content Review: PROFANITY: A few very mild instances VIOLENCE: Moderate throughout SEXUAL CONTENT: Moderate throughout MATURE THEMES: Moderate RECOMMENDED AGE GROUP: 18+ Interestingly enough, the only bad words were used to describe the horrific circumstances which the main character constantly finds himself, and it’s always the same word (used maybe between 5-10 times). Other than that, there were no exclamations or slang usage of profanity at all! The reason I put moderate on the sexual content is because of one of the topics of the book: Pedophiles. This is mentioned often, but not elaborated upon. There is quite a bit of violence: one character kills his mother because a demon tells him to; a character is kidnapped and held prisoner with threats of death; a character is almost hanged; a character is beaten badly; children are abused; there is arson, assault, death threats, identity theft, kidnapping... Even with that long list, the violence is not explicit. The themes are many. There are the main themes of Evil and deception. Satanic worship is included. There is a character who can detect demons and she is always afraid. There is drunkenness and dealing with loss of family/children and abuse. On the whole, it’s not trashy and explicit, all the harsh themes and content are handled very well, but it is most definitely dark. If you are looking for a thriller that gives you chills and makes you think (and want to bar your windows and add more deadbolts), considering the fact that there is a lack of profanity and sex scenes, this is fairly clean for the genre, and would probably be a good choice. However, because of the darkness and intensity of the themes, I would recommend this for ages 18+. This review was written by Emily A Squeaky Clean Reads Book Reviewer This book was sent to Squeaky Clean Reads by Brook Water Multnomah for a review ![]() Buy this book! Click on the cover Conversations With a Moonflower by Christine Hall Publisher's Note: It all begins with a little flower. This tenderly told story is a beautiful reminder to appreciate the simple joys around you. The perfect gift for even the busiest mothers and friends in your life, this book is guaranteed to change chaos to calm and inspire all to look beyond the ordinary and see the extraordinary. Overall Review: If you are needing a reminder of your beauty and divine nature, take some time to have a conversation with a Moonflower! This unique way of conversing won't have quite the same meaning until you read this book, but by taking the time to read Converstations with a Moonflower by Christine T. Hall, we can each be reminded of these two great qualities! It just might inspire you to order your seeds and let this remarkable plant change your perspective on life. The author records multiple “conversations” and how each one changed her for the better, along with sharing her association and friendship with an Amish family. This is quick read, filled with uplifting messages, is sure to warm the heart of anyone willing to pause from their hectic life to read and reflect. The author even includes a website where you can receive free Moonflower seeds. Overall Rating is 4.5 out of 5 stars! Content Review: VIOLENCE: none PROFANITY: none SEXUAL CONTENT: none MATURE THEME: none RECOMMENDED AGE GROUP: 9+ Conversations with a Moonflower is squeaky clean. It is nothing but sweet uplifting messages even children would enjoy. Although meant for adults, the messages in this book can be appreciated at any age. This review was written by Amber A Squeaky Clean Reads Book Reviewer This book was sent to Squeaky Clean Reads by Cedarfort for a review ![]() Buy this book! Click on the cover The Tomb Builder by E. James Harrison Publisher's Note: Inspired to build a tomb fit for a king, Joseph of Arimathea completes the task just days before Passover. But when Joseph risks everything for the life of one man, the tomb plays an even more important role than he had ever anticipated. Set in the time of the Savior's ministry, this touching story of love and sacrifice is the perfect reminder to trust God in all circumstances. Overall Review: ‘The Tomb Builder’ is a beautiful and moving historical fiction about a man who played a great part in the final days of the Savior, but is barely even mentioned in the Bible: Joseph of Arimathea. This novel explores a small section of his life and we are able to glimpse some “What if?”s. Joseph was a member of the Sanhedrin; a powerful and rich man in the community; married with children. What happened to him when he offered his own personal tomb to bury someone who had caused so much uproar amongst the Jews and his brethren of the Sanhedrin? And why did he do it in the first place? How did his wife and family react? We see amazing miracles surrounding the inspiration and execution of the tomb itself—both Joseph and his wife feeling the need to build a tomb—but why? The stone hewer even talks of the religious experience of his work on the tomb fit for a King. Joseph announces his faith to the Sanhedrin and is now under the ire of the evil chief judge Caiaphas. Caiaphas plans to completely destroy Joseph in a Job-like way after dealing with Jesus. It was so interesting to hear the inner debates, plans and conflicts amongst the Sanhedrin and why they did what they did. It was all about power and money, of course, but to ‘listen in’ on the conversations put these scriptural events on a new personal level. I felt for Joseph as he struggled with his newfound faith and the lack of understanding from so many close friends and family. I cried at the scene of the crucifixion and again as they prepared the body for burial. Thankfully, right prevails and it is proven once again that good will always come to those who hold true to their beliefs, even under the most dire of circumstances. A lovely work of fiction that will make you wonder about this man and want to know more! Overall Rating is 4.5 out of 5 stars. Content Review: PROFANITY: None VIOLENCE: A few mild-moderate instances SEXUAL CONTENT: None MATURE THEMES: Moderate RECOMMENDED AGE GROUP: 14+ Since this novel is based around the crucifixion of Jesus, there is a lot of violence and anger. However, the author deals with it very well. It is told in a way that you feel it intensely, but it is not overly shocking or graphic. There were two somewhat intense scenes of violence—both having to do with the crucifixion itself—but they were reverently told while still getting the point across. The themes are many and include political unrest, greed, deceit, anger, ruthlessness, miracles, death, questions of belief, and the consequences of decisions to follow (or not). The writing almost hints at a younger age group and really is well done. This is a Squeaky Clean Read for ages 14+. This review was written by Emily A Squeaky Clean Reads Book Reviewer This book was sent to Squeaky Clean Reads by Cedarfort for this review ![]() Buy this book! Click on the cover Publisher's Note: Whether she has an infant in her arms or a strong hand in her wrinkled palm, a mother's work is never done. So this Mother's Day, give the women in your life a true treasure with this tender collection of poetry from beloved author Carol Lynn Pearson. Inspirational and uplifting, it's the perfect way to show them your love and gratitude for their divine work. Overall Review: ‘The Still, Sweet Waters of Home’ is a contemporary and multi-layered look at the 23rd Psalm. Each line of the psalm is ingeniously made into the title of a poem. Every poem is a continuing message from a mother to her child (or children); it begins with background information on how a shepherd treats his sheep, then continues with how the mother treats, or wishes to treat, her child. I found it very calming and sweet. Even though some of the aspects of the poetry are a bit ‘cheesy’ (does ‘partially hydrogenated vegetable oils’ really belong in a poem?), it does in the end serve its purpose: A gentle reminder to mothers that we are shepherds to our children while still relying on The Shepherd. This is a lovely little treasure that you can pick up and peruse at any time just to keep yourself on track, or give as a gift for a mom-to-be. Overall rating is 4 out of 5 stars. Content Review: PROFANITY: None VIOLENCE: None SEXUAL CONTENT: None MATURE THEMES: Mild RECOMMENDED AGE GROUP: 18+ There is nothing at all unclean in this little book. The only reason I put a mild mature theme is due to the fact that the whole theme of this book is mothers caring for their children. It would probably not be overly interesting to a younger crowd. If they’re interested, there’s no reason they shouldn’t read it (content-wise), but I would recommend this as a Squeaky Clean Read for ages 18+. This review was written by Emily A Squeaky Clean Reads Book Reviewer This book was sent to Squeaky Clean Reads by Cedarfort for this review | Get
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