Book Review - Mercy Triumphs: A Contemporary Novel by Jana Kelley

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Mia and her family are American Christians who are living in Sudan under Islamic law. They face harassment, persecution and danger as part of their everyday life. Halimah and Rania who were formerly Muslims were forced to leave Sudan if they wanted to continue practicing Christianity.  Together the trio search for God's mercy to help guide them.

The last novel in the trilogy, Mercy Triumphs is about tying up lose ends in each character's stories and development. While leaving out religion in my assessment in this book, I found this book unnecessary. I felt like the author stretched the story out without actually adding anything to it. I felt that this portion of the book could have been added to the first two books to make the story meatier for the other two novels. I definitely felt that there could have been more to this book and was disappointed that there wasn't more. While I did enjoy reading Kelley's novels, I am not sure I would go out of my way to read more if the last novel is just going to be fluff pieces.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Book Review - The Dog Who Was There by Ron Marasco

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Barley is an ordinary dog but one day experiences the extraordinary. Barley struggles to live in the first century Jerusalem. As an abandoned pup, he finds solace with a woodcarver and his wife. When the teachings of the Messiah reaches their door of his master, he learns to forgiveness even when he navigates the dangerous city of Judea. Where he meets a homeless petty criminal named Samid. Together, they face a host of new struggles and experiences. How does Barley crosses path with the Messiah? How does the teachings affect Barley's outlook on life?

The novel had an interesting story. However, I found the book very boring and dragged on towards the middle.  The ending was heart felt and inspiring but the novel had more gruel and pain, then I thought was necessary. A decent story but I don't think I would pick up this book again. 

**Disclosure I received a free unedited copy  of this book**

Book Review - Eden: The Animals Parable by Keith Korman

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Readers will be immersed in a intricate retelling of the Gospels in a new way.  We learn of Jesus and his disciples and his journey through the Holy Land through eyes of the animals that follow him; most notably his loyal dog and companion named Eden. Jesus's flock is joined by a donkey, small lambs, field mice, and a fox who follows but unsure what to do. The animals witness the divine events and don't follow understand what they see. 

When I first received this book, I thought it was something completely different. I don't understand how the first part of the book is a part of the Gospel and felt it could have been left out. The retelling was an interesting but difficult to read and understand during some parts. While, the cover looks kid-friendly, I am not sure if I would share this book with young readers.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**