Water's Edge by Robert Whitlow

Water’s Edge by Robert Whitlow was a good read.  The main character, Tom Crane, goes through a transforming series of events in this novel.  Tom’s father passes away and he returns to his hometown to settle the law practice his father has left behind.   As Tom experiences a series of additional losses he finds himself examining his priorities and opening his heart to the Father.   In this Job-like experience Tom finds more in the small town of Bethel then he bargained for and is transformed as an individual.  Whitlow blends an inspiring story of faith with a suspenseful story-line.  I enjoyed the book, although at times the clear doom coming Tom’s way was somewhat frustrating to me as a reader.  Some of the actions of Tom’s character seem overly trustworthy and unlikely.  Thus the 4 out of 5 stars.  However, the story is a good one and enjoyable for the reader and I recommend it.  The growth of Tom’s faith is inspiring and so well woven into the story throughout the book that I was impressed at its feeling of authenticity.  It was enjoyable to read a suspense novel and also have my faith inspired and fueled.  A good book.  Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 

No Place Like Holmes by Jason Lethcode

In No Place Like Holmes Jason Lethcode has produced an enjoyable work of fiction for young adults.  In the story young Griffin Sharpe has traveled to England for the summer to spend time with his mysterious uncle.  The story carries the reader through the summer as Griffin gains confidence, survives an adventure, foils the plot of a mastermind criminal, and softens the heart of his uncle.  The story is well written and enjoyable.  It is a crime story however, and therefore might not be for the young preteen set.  There is a crime afoot and some violence results, so parents should be sure that their readers are ready for that sort of thing.  I decided not to share this book with my ten year old who has a tender spirit and I felt would be too upset by the actions of the villain in this story, especially those at the end of the novel.  That said, the character of Griffin models good morals, maturity, and a strong faith.  He provides a good example to readers of how to deal with a relationship with an adult who is not a believer.  These qualities make this book a good read for young readers.  Lethcode does a good job of weaving in Holmes traditional setting, character, and feel to the story.  This will provide a good introduction to later reading of the Holmes books by Doyle.  Normally I shy away from modern works for my kids, but this will likely be one I will happily let them enjoy in their late preteen years.   I am confident No Place Like Holmes will entertain and be an enjoyable experience for them.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> 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 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”