Star Gazing, by, Linda Gillard. I loved this book. It has been such a long time since I have read anything worth recommending to you. But this one is way up there on my list of favorites. I think I may go buy a few copies just to hand out as gifts. It touches on all the subjects I love: trees, and nature; music and love. Seeing the world through the eyes of another person. It was spell-binding. So hard to put down. So sad its over. Can't wait to read anything else written by this well-versed lady. Kudos.
The Blue Castle, by, Lucy Maud Montgomery. I know this is a really old book. And the cover looks so corny you think you could plant it and get a crop out of it. But it is my all time favorite book. It reminds me so much of the other book I posted here, I just had to put them together. Ms. Montgomery had such a way with words. When she talks about nature I am right there rambling through the forests and meadows...if you've never read it, give it a read. You will be surprised... Love it. Really, I am not much into love stories. I really shy away from the vivid descriptions. I just think its so tacky. That's why these two are so high up there on my list, I guess. Not for the love story. But the way the writers draw you in, and hold you spell-bound. With wonderful well thought out characters, surrounded by the beauty of nature. My soul can expand and breath deeply here.
The Rosie Project, by Graeme Simsion. This book is so funny, I couldn't put it down. Such a delightful, quirky character. Trying to find a wife, seems an impossible task for this fellow. If your looking for some light- hearted, intelligent reading, with a very dry sense of humour, you will enjoy this book. I know I did.
The Rosie Effect, by Graeme Simsion. I don't know how Graeme Simsion does it. I thought the second book with the same quirky character would get old real soon. But he is just as funny and un-put-downable as the first book. Gosh I wish I could write like this. Such a lovable character. Wonder where he gets his material?
Wild Wings, by Gill Lewis. What a great story. I felt like I was flying, Gill Lewis was so descriptive of the Ospreys in flight. I really enjoyed this book, and was looking for anything else written by this author. But, this is her debut novel, so will be looking forward to seeing more of her work, hopefully in the near future.
The Emerald Atlas, by John Stevens. Book one, the book of beginnings. This was well written, with well developed characters and story line. I really enjoyed it. I kept thinking, oh that's the end, this is where it will all resolve, and let off the tension, but it just keeps going, tension just keeps building, taking so many unexpected twists and turns. And I loved having the girl as the hero, that's just the icing on the cake. Yummy.
Black Dog, Dream Dog, By Michelle Superle. This was a well done little book for middle-grade readers. I really enjoyed it. Made me almost want to go out and get another dog. Cause this one seemed like a perfect angel, knowing instinctively what people needed. Who doesn't want that. The artists depictions, done by Millie Ballance were a treat. She can be my illustrator too. 
Where I belong, By Tara White. This was quite different. Well done, with well developed characters. The plot moves along nicely too. About a First Nation's girl adopted by a white Family. Lots going on in here. Loved it.
The Crowfield Curse, by Pat Walsh. This started out a bit dark, and a little scary. But then we get an angel or two and it really changes things. I found this book really well researched, with well developed characters. Love the little hob character, wish I had one of my own, a little pet that can talk.
Pewter Angels, The Angelic Letter Series, by Henry K. Ripplinger. I think I would have really enjoyed reading this as a teenager. It gives insight into the mind of a teenager, and the problems they face. Plus gives positive solutions. The characters and story line are well thought out. Maybe needed a bit tighter editing. But still, I can't wait to read the next one in the series. 
The Illuminator, by Brenda Rickman Vantrease. So well written. Well researched. Love this period. There is so much going on with the Catholic Church. Yet it seems an age of innocence as well. People believed what the church told them, that they would die and spend an eternity in hell if you didn't follow their teachings. You weren't allowed to think for yourself, or question anything. It was the law. Very scary times. I'm glad we live where we do and can have our freedom of expression.
The Mercy Seller, by Brenda Rickman Vantrease. I loved this story. It is the sequel to the Illuminator, but I happened to read this one first. It is a stand alone book. Such in depth characters, and so well researched. What a scary age, being tortured and killed for being different. We have come a long way. I wish there was a sequel to this book. Fell in love with the characters and Brenda's writing. You can happily lose all track of time in this book.
Elissa's Odyssey, by Erica Verillo. Book 2 in the Phoenix Rising Trilogy. It was good. Not as good as the first book. I think I was expecting more, as the first book really hooked me. I think I love the whole talking to animals thing, really was hoping for much more. Still a good read, the story really moves along. Off to find the next book in the series. Love the artwork on the front cover.
The Rabbit ate my homework, By Rachel Elizabeth Cole. This is a fast paced book, that really moves along. I learned a lot of things about rabbits I never knew. But the main character in the story is unknown. I have no idea what grade he is in, how tall he is, what color hair he has. I know one thing for sure, I will never get a rabbit. Get your child to read this book if they are pestering you for a pet. Sounds very labour intensive. Little housewreckers.
