The Memory Weaver

Kirkpatrick, Jane. The Memory Weaver. Grand Rapids, MI: Revell Publishing. 2015.

SUMMARY:
memoryweaverWitnessing a massacre at a young age, Eliza Spalding Warren was held hostage by the Cayuse Indians and forced to work as an interpreter as the only person who knew both languages. As time passes, memories shift which cause new insight and feelings into the past events. Based on a true story, New York Times bestselling author, Jane Kirkpatrick, takes readers on yet another emotionally, thought-provoking read…

A PENNY FOR MY THOUGHTS:
I loved the basis for this story positioned on real-life past events. Also interesting, the alteration of memories over time, through experiences and as more knowledge is gained. Not a light read but rather a deeper, stimulating read which made me ponder the events and recollections associated with them. Always well-written with bits of true situations included, Jane Kirkpatrick enthralls with each novel. Though not a huge fan of pioneer time-frames, The Memory Weaver was an exception for me…especially as I enjoyed the included author interview at the end. I look forward to her next novel.

RATING:
4 (out of 5) pennies

*I received a complimentary copy of The Memory Weaver from Revell Publishing for my honest review*

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A Light In The Wilderness

Kirkpatrick, Jane. A Light In The Wilderness. Grand Rapids, MI: Revell. 2014.

SUMMARY:
wildernessThough clutching the papers which proves she is free, Letitia learns that freedom may be hard to prove. While traveling the arduous Oregon Trail, Letitia becomes united with Nancy, a woman hesitant to make the journey yet willing to follow her husband, and Betsy, a Kalapuya Indian grandmother. Different women sharing a common pilgrimage…

A PENNY FOR MY THOUGHTS:
Though not a huge history fan, I must admit I was captivated by this book. Based on a true story, I found myself deeply involved in the lives of the three women and all they were forced to endure. It actually made me pause to consider the same trials women must brave regardless of the time period. Not a light read, the story draws you in completely and almost makes time stand still. As an accomplished author and recipient of several prestigious awards, Jane Kirkpatrick will remain on my bookshelf as a favored author. Now if perhaps she taught history, even I might have a change of heart concerning the subject!

RATING:
5 (out of 5) pennies

*I received a complimentary copy of A Light In The Wilderness from Revell Publishing for my honest review*

Emma of Aurora

Kirkpatrick, Jane. Emma of Aurora (Complete Trilogy). Colorado Springs, CO: WaterBrook Press. 2006, 2007, 2008.

SUMMARY:
emmaEmma has grown restless due to the strict rules of her religious society. After questioning her leader and pushing against the society’s norms, she finds herself traveling to the location for the community’s new colony. Along the way, she must learn to live with a husband she barely knows and raise her children in the middle of her conflict with her community.

A PENNY FOR MY THOUGHTS:
The trilogy that outlines Emma’s story reads almost as a journal. The plot doesn’t move quickly and contains little action. The narrative is designed to reveal Emma’s inner thoughts. While the reader gains a deep understanding of Emma’s character, the design makes for a slower yet interesting read. I found the included maps and summary of characters from the front of the trilogy to be both helpful and insightful. If reading the story of Emma, be sure to read the full trilogy in order to gain the complete view of her life. An interesting tidbit – the trilogy was based off an actual historical figure.

MY RATING:
3.5 (out of 5) pennies

*I received a complimentary copy of Emma of Aurora from Waterbrook Press for my honest review*