Inescapable, by Nancy Mehl

Inescapable, by Nancy Mehl, captures the reader's attention by using the first person approach. Lizzie Engel is the heroine, and a Mennonite who ran away. Trouble found her in the modern world of Kansas City that forced her to return home. Returning home shot fear through our heroine. She was afraid of repercussions from the harsher members of her community for her past and abandonment.  Though the community members were generally passive and peaceful people, Lizzie’s circumstances brought about very negative reactions and surprising support.  Lizzie Engel's return home was as nerve racking as expected, but she was not as safe from the outside world as she thought. 

            The story line is strong enough to force you to finish. I have never read anything by the author before. I am glad to discover her.

I have never read a book with a heroine from a Mennonite Community.  I am not at all familiar with their culture.  The author did a good job of explaining many aspects of the culture.  This book didn't hold me captive, as many books have, but I did desire to finish it.  The introduction is a bit slow. The heroine wasn't a very strong force; however, she does become more interesting and intriguing.  I will offer this book to my friends. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher Bethany House and their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Short-Straw Bride

Short-Straw Bride is a cute book that I couldn't put down. I love Karen Witemeyer's books, and this one is at the top of the list. Although I loved the book and will probably reread it, I felt there were a few strange places. It rushed in several places.  I would've liked a little more support for the plot.  In a couple of places the plot lagged.  These were very minor and may not spark the same reaction in other readers. These few issues did not take away from the fun and wittiness of this book. I found myself actually laughing out loud a couple of times.  Other times I was on the edge of my seat.   The author really kept me engaged and guessing.  I usually can predict pretty accurately exactly what is going to come within the next few pages, but  I was pleasantly surprised by the twists and unpredictability of this book.  I would definitely encourage anyone to read Short-Straw Bride.  It is sure to please.

The author’s works reminded me of Mary Connealy or Kathy Marie Hake.  If you enjoy either of their works, you may really enjoy Short-Straw Bride.

If you are looking for an easy read this book qualifies. It is one I am passing on to my bookworm friend.

Opening the way, Witemeyer did succeed to set the tone for the entire book. I think the only thing that would have made the tone better is if it had been written in first person; but I am partial to first person anytime I read.

Overall, I loved the book and it is book is going to be an addition to my library. I love it and will revisit it in the future.  I also look forward to what Witemeyer has to offer in the future. 

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B15ATNlSxI8.



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher Bethany House and their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”