is there a christian book review site

• Where Do I Start?
• Our Beliefs
• Our Philosophy and Practice
• Our Ratings
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What Our Readers Say
• How to Submit a Book for Review
• Latest Reviews
• Starred Reviews
• Picture Books
• Easy Readers
• Middle Grades
• Family Read Alouds
• The Good Book
• Redeemed Reader Series
• The Hive: Resources from Gladys Hunt
• Reflections
• Your Account
• Golden Key Fellowship Benefits
• Silver Key Fellowship Benefits
• Free Member Printable Resources

Confidently choose books for children and teens.

Book reviews and resources for Christian parents and educators.

We're reading ahead for you.

Want to choose great books for children and teens?

We know christian parents and educators struggle to find quality new books. at redeemed reader, we’re reading ahead for you so that you can confidently choose books for your children and teens., weekly in your inbox: book reviews, book lists, news, book trivia, and more, click here for a free best bibles guide, quick links.

Read With Us

The Best of the Best

Books that represent both literary excellence and biblical truth.

Print Magazine

An ad-free, 24-page magazine full of features for the whole family.

Gladys Hunt Resources

Blog posts from the late Gladys Hunt, here on Redeemed Reader!

Latest Posts

The Selkie’s Daughter by Linda Crotta Brennan

By janie cheaney.

The Selkie’s Daughter presents its protagonist with a profound choice between two natures.

Read More »

Making Sense of Dog Senses by Stephanie Gibeault

Making Sense of Dog Senses is a fascinating introduction to the way dogs experience their world.

*Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin

By betsy farquhar.

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon is a lovely story about gratitude and Chinese mythology for middle grades.

This Day in History for Kids by Dan Bova

This Day in History for Kids is a year-long tour through historical events political and cultural, trivial and profound.

Animal Picture Books by Sy Montgomery: Brave Baby Hummingbird, Inky’s Amazing Escape, and The Seagull and the Sea Captain

Sy Montgomery goes the distance to report on wonders of the animal world.

The Night War by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

The Night War is the WWII story of a Jewish girl in Paris choosing to be brave when Nazis take everything from her.

Kentucky Derby Book List: Books for Young Horse Lovers

Books about horses for horse lovers of all ages, boys and girls, just in time for the Kentucky Derby events this weekend.

Operation: Happy by Jenni L. Walsh

Operation: Happy is the story of a girl and her dog experiencing the attack on Pearl Harbor and challenges that followed. Operation: Happy: A World…

Four New Picture Books by Caldecott-winning Illustrators

Four new books by Chris Raschka, Micha Archer, Elisha Cooper, and Sophie Blackall celebrate the variety of life on earth and the power of imagination.

Book Reviews From A Biblical Christian Perspective

Trending Now

The Treasure by Marty Machowski

Leading Little Ones to God by Marian M. Schoolland

Teach Your Children the Scriptures Series by Joel R. Beeke and Nick Thompson

Find books everyone will love.

Good Book Mom has three ways to help families find good books:

• Free book reviews of Christian and secular titles
• A membership filled with booklists and premium content
• A Biblical Christian book order for discerning schools, co-ops, churches, and families

Sign up for our Newsletter

We do not share your data with anybody, and only use it for its intended purpose

Thank you for signing up! If you have Gmail, please check your Promotions tab, drag Good Book Mom to Primary, and click "Yes" for future emails. If you have Hotmail (or Outlook) check your Junk mail and add Good Book Mom to your contacts. Thank you!

Membership pricing options.

Join Our Faithful Community And Become A Member!

Access to ONLY premium content and Good Book Mom’s book club.

What’s Included

Premium content

Good Book Mom’s Book Club

Get access to ROTATING monthly booklists and full access to premium content.

ROTATING access to monthly booklists

Get FULL access to all of Good Book Mom’s booklists and premium content for $19 off the monthly price!

FULL access to all booklists

Get access to ROTATING monthly booklists for groups of up to 200 seats.

Up to 200 seats

• Featured Essay The Love of God An essay by Sam Storms Read Now
• Faithfulness of God
• Saving Grace
• Adoption by God

Most Popular

• Gender Identity
• Trusting God
• The Holiness of God
• See All Essays

• Best Commentaries
• Featured Essay Resurrection of Jesus An essay by Benjamin Shaw Read Now
• Death of Christ
• Resurrection of Jesus
• Church and State
• Sovereignty of God
• Faith and Works
• The Carson Center
• The Keller Center
• New City Catechism
• Publications
• Read the Bible
• TGC Pastors

U.S. Edition

• Arts & Culture
• Bible & Theology
• Christian Living
• Current Events
• Faith & Work
• As In Heaven
• Gospelbound
• Post-Christianity?
• TGC Podcast
• You're Not Crazy
• Churches Planting Churches
• Help Me Teach The Bible
• Word Of The Week
• Upcoming Events
• Past Conference Media
• Foundation Documents
• Church Directory
• Global Resourcing
• Donate to TGC

To All The World

The world is a confusing place right now. We believe that faithful proclamation of the gospel is what our hostile and disoriented world needs. Do you believe that too? Help TGC bring biblical wisdom to the confusing issues across the world by making a gift to our international work.

Book Reviews

Why fading civil religion is good news for church renewal.

What if the rise of secularism is good news for the church? For decades, we set our hopes on technology, politics, and the appearance of peace. We wanted to believe we were headed somewhere better—that progress was happening. But now as our technology ensnares and isolates us, our politics threaten to tear us apart, and our cultural decline continues to accelerate, people are understandably distressed. But throughout history these periods of decline traditionally precede powerful spiritual renewal—and even revival. What if all the bad news in this world is actually good news for the church?

Explore Reviews

EVERYDAY CHRISTIAN

• Christian Living
• Family & Relationships
• Health & Fitness
• Entertainment

12 Top Christian Book Reviewers

In Feast On a Good Book , I asked the question, 

“How do you know whether a book is worth buying and reading?” 

My answer: 

“A recommendation by someone you trust sure does help.” 

I then linked you to my RPM Ministries Book Review site , plus provided direct links to nearly two dozen of my favorite book reviews. 

What About Other Christian Book Reviewers?

There are many excellent Christian book reviewers on the Net. So, today I’m linking you to folks whose reviews I always benefit from—even when I don’t always agree with 100% of their review. 

All of these folks do much more on their blogs than review books. 

By the way, “Christian book reviewers” means a Christian who reviews books from a Christian worldview . This is different from focusing on reviews of Christian books from any perspective. Ponder that one… 

My Dozen Favorite Christian Book Reviewers

In alphabetical order, my 12 top Christian book reviewers… 

• Thabiti Anyabwile : Articulate, courageous, informed and informing… 
• Aaron Armstrong : Theologically-astute, fair, focused, challenging, stretching… 
• Tim Challies : Discerning, prolific, quality and quantity, a “Berean” mindset… 
• Nathaniel Claiborne : Fearless, pointed, thorough, engaging… 
• Brian Croft : Pastoral…clear recommendations, a shepherd’s heart, encouraging, to the point… 
• Kevin DeYoung : Robust, blending pastoral ministry and theology, well-spoken, insightful… 
• Brad Hambrick : Detailed, generous, practical, focused on life change… 
• David Murray : Enjoyable, comprehensive, seeing with new eyes, thinking outside the box, articulate… 
• Andy Naselli : Robust, theological, cutting-edge… 
• Paul Tautges : Pastoral, practical, gracious, speaking the truth in love… 
• Justin Taylor : Articulate, focused, deep, clear, doesn’t waste words… 
• Trevin Wax : Enlightening, edifying, instructive, profound… 

Bonus Feature: My Three Favorite Christian Book Review Sites

In addition to individual book reviewers, I recommend the following three Christian book review sites (listed alphabetically). 

• The Biblical Counseling Coalition’s Book Review Site : Over a dozen book reviewers provide book reviews, author interviews, and book video trailers. Visit the BCC’s Book Review Site for reviews of books related to biblical counseling, pastoral ministry, marriage, parenting, and Christian living. 
• The Discerning Reader Book Review Site : Originally launched by Tim Challies and now directed by Mark Tubbs, Discerning Reader is a leader in Christian book reviews. Find out for yourself here .  
• The Gospel Coalition Book Review Site : TGCR provides robust reviews on a wide variety of topics. Read TGCR reviews here for an Evangelical Christian perspective on books in the news. 

Join the Conversation

Which of these reviewers do you read and enjoy? What additional Christian book reviewers would you add to this list? Why?

• Bob Kellemen

Robert W. Kellemen, Ph.D., LCPC, served for over a dozen years as Chairman of the Master of Arts in Christian Counseling and Discipleship Department at Capital Bible Seminary. He is now Professor-at-Large in that Department. In his three pastoral ministries, Bob has equipped 100s of lay people as biblical counselors and spiritual friends. In his role as Founder and CEO of RPM Ministries (http://www.rpmministries.org), Bob is known for his Christ-centered, comprehensive, compassionate, and culturally-informed approach to equipping local churches for biblical counseling and spiritual formation. Bob is the Executive Director of the Association of Biblical Counselors' Center for Church Equipping. He also serves as the Launch Director for the Biblical Counseling Coalition. Bob is the author of 'Soul Physicians', Spiritual Friends, Beyond the Suffering, Sacred Friendships, and God's Healing for Life's Losses.

Be First to Comment

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Your Comment

Your Website URL

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Recent Posts

• Musical Prayer for the New Year
• When People Pray
• Oh the Possibilities
• Sweetness in Christ

Recent Comments

• Liz on Using Progesterone When Trying to Conceive: Facts You Need to Know
• Gary on Do Babies Go to Heaven? What Does the Bible Say?
• Maryellen Cleaver on Christmas Classics: The Man And The Birds By Paul Harvey
• Hailey Y on Do Babies Go to Heaven? What Does the Bible Say?
• Silver on Christmas Classics: The Man And The Birds By Paul Harvey
• Alfred Nkut
• Althea DeBrule
• Amanda Leavelle
• Amie Streater
• Amit Parasar
• Amy Wingfield
• Becky Hilton
• Braxton Brady and Lee Burns
• Brenda Wood
• Brian Neese
• Britton Cowman
• Carol Flett
• Chuck Swindoll
• Cristie Cerniglia
• Crystal Paschal
• Dan Buckhout
• Dan Woolley
• Dani Nichols
• Darlene McDaniel
• Deanna Favre and Shane Stanford
• Dionna Sanchez
• Dr. Emerson Eggerichs
• Dr. Paul White
• Elizabeth Renter
• Everyday Christian Staff
• Faith Draper
• George Elerick
• Gina Burgess
• Heidi Avery
• Jack Wellman
• James Valdez
• Joe Dubowski
• Joshua Gillem
• Joyce Bowling
• Judith A. Aparri
• Judy Riddle
• Julie McElroy
• Karia Bunting
• Karyn Brownlee
• Katelyn Thomas
• Kathleen Strelow
• Keiki Hendrix
• Kelli Zaniel
• Krysann Sedberry
• Larry Rottmeyer
• Leigh Ann Napier
• Lili Richey Willard
• Lindsay Reeves
• Lisa Parnell
• Lisa Phelps
• Mary Boscaino
• Meghan Grizzle
• Melonie Hixon
• Michael Agostino
• Michael Dowd
• Mitzi C. Smith
• Monique Davis
• Neal Powers
• Paul Harrington
• Paul Prather
• Peter Elliott
• Rev. Tim Lehmann
• Ryan Berkeley
• Samantha Keller
• Shannon Perry
• Shaun Takenouchi
• Sherry Castelluccio
• Stacie Stamper
• Stephanie Romero
• Stephanie S. Smith
• Stephen Clover
• Tanya Marchiol
• Ted Bigelow
• Tizara Glispy
• Tony Denbok
• Valerie Lenon
• Comment Feed

Growing Your Faith by Reading, Writing, and Living for Jesus

Christian Book Reviews

Our christian book reviews and summaries.

Welcome to our Christian book reviews and summaries. Our specialty is serving readers great Christian book finds for both adults and children. I’m proud to be recognized as a valuable reviewer by book specialists:

New Christian Book Releases

The Christian books we review are primarily new Christian book releases. We typically work with publishers or authors on their book launch, so many of our reviews are hot-off-the-press books.

Narrow your search through our book reviews by categories:  Christian lifestyle , books on faith ,  inspirational true stories , or  Christian children’s books .

Take a peek below at our latest adult and children’s book reviews:

Latest Adult Book Reviews:

Latest Children’s Book Reviews:

Get our Christian book reviews and summaries delivered to your inbox!

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

How to Find Great Christian Books

Another resource for finding great Christian books is my How to Find Great Books Guide .

Are you an author looking for a Christian Book Reviewer?

We’re not currently accepting unsolicited requests for book reviews at this time.

12 Top Christian Book Reviewers

by Bob | Jan 11, 2012 | Book Review , Books , Challies , Discerning Reader | 9 comments

“How do you know whether a book is worth buying and reading?”

“A recommendation by someone you trust sure does help.”

I then linked you to my RPM Ministries Book Review site , plus provided direct links to nearly two dozen of my favorite book reviews.

What About Other Christian Book Reviewers?  

There are many excellent Christian book reviewers on the Net. So, today I’m linking you to folks whose reviews I always benefit from—even when I don’t always agree with 100% of their review.

All of these folks do much more on their blogs than review books.

By the way, “Christian book reviewers” means a Christian who reviews books from a Christian worldview. This is different from focusing on reviews of Christian books from any perspective. Ponder that one…

My Dozen Favorite Christian Book Reviewers

In alphabetical order, my 12 top Christian book reviewers…

• Thabiti Anyabwile : Articulate, courageous, informed and informing…

• Aaron Armstrong : Theologically-astute, fair, focused, challenging, stretching…

• Tim Challies : Discerning, prolific, quality and quantity, a “Berean” mindset…

• Nathaniel Claiborne : Fearless, pointed, thorough, engaging…

• Brian Croft : Pastoral…clear recommendations, a shepherd’s heart, encouraging, to the point…

• Kevin DeYoung : Robust, blending pastoral ministry and theology, well-spoken, insightful…

• Brad Hambrick : Detailed, generous, practical, focused on life change…

• David Murray : Enjoyable, comprehensive, seeing with new eyes, thinking outside the box, articulate…

• Andy Naselli : Robust, theological, cutting-edge…

• Paul Tautges : Pastoral, practical, gracious, speaking the truth in love…

• Justin Taylor : Well-spoken, focused, deep, clear, doesn’t waste words…

• Trevin Wax : Enlightening, edifiying, instructive, profound… 

Bonus Feature: My Three Favorite Christian Book Review Sites

In addition to individual book reviewers, I recommend the following three Christian book review sites (listed alphabetically).

• The Biblical Counseling Coalition’s Book Review Site : Over a dozen book reviewers provide book reviews, author interviews, and book video trailers. Visit the BCC’s Book Review Site for reviews of books related to biblical counseling, pastoral ministry, marriage, parenting, and Christian living.

• The Discerning Reader Book Review Site : Originally launched by Tim Challies and now directed by Mark Tubbs, Discerning Reader is a leader in Christian book reviews. Find out for yourself here . 

• The Gospel Coalition Book Review Site : TGCR provides robust reviews on a wide variety of topics. Read TGCR reviews here  for an Evangelical Christian perspective on books in the news.

Join the Conversation

Which of these reviewers do you read and enjoy? What additional Christian book reviewers would you add to this list? Why?

RPM Ministries: Equipping You to Change Lives with Christ’s Changeless Truth

Thank you for mentioning Discerning Reader in the group section, Bob. Looks like I’ve got some work to do to appear in your A-list, though! 🙂

That’s not an “A” List and a “B” List. It’s an Individual List and a Group List. You and Discerning Reader are an “A List Group Book Review Site!

Thanks for the encouragement, Bob. My plans are to go individual within a few months…DiscerningLeader.com is on its way.

You should check out More Than A Review too. It’s more entertainment than theological based but it aims to help readers avoid unexpected undesirable offensive content (like sex, violence and drugs). The website has a rating system based on a number of criteria so it’s not just about rating the book in a typical way. You can check it out here: http://www.morethanareview.com .

I’d love to see a list of Christian fiction reviewers. I would humbly add my blog to the list, though I don’t do any contemporary books.

Challies is one of my favorites, hand’s down. I would like to submit my site though, it is still developing, we only have small handful of book reviews. Nonetheless, we are now able to produce 2 reviews a month, so hopefully some people will find this helpful. We just published one today on R. C. Sproul’s book, The Prince’s Poison Cup. I hope you all find it helpful.

I recently published a non-fiction book and am looking for some free reviews…Do you know anyone who would be willing to do it? I’d email a copy, of course.

Thanks for sharing this list of the best Christian books around. I’m really growing my collection of books currently consisting of works by Keion Henderson, https://www.keionhenderson.com/books/ and other noteworthy Christian authors. It’s really been my source of spiritual enlightenment specially during this time of the pandemic.

Thank you for sharing this profound article! God Bless You! https://sdahymnalsongs.com/Hymnal/

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Get Updates By Email

Join the RPM mailing list to receive notifcations of my latest blog posts!

Thank you so much! You have been successfully subscribed to our newsletter. Check your inbox!

• BLOGGERS DATABASE
• SUBMIT YOUR BLOG

News Reader

Brand Monitoring

Blogger Outreach or Influencer Marketing

Combined Newsletters

Embeddable RSS Widgets

RSS Combiner beta

Select Page

• Get 250k Bloggers, Podcasters and Media outlets with email contacts. Export Full Database
• Request Bloggers Contacts
• Export Contact List

100 Best Christian Book Review Blogs and Websites

• The Englewood Review of Books
• Redeemed Reader | Christian Book Reviews for Parents.
• Book Woman Joan | Christian Genre Books Review
• Operation Actually Read Bible | Christian Book Review Blog
• Reviews by Peter | Christian Fiction Reviews
• Homeschoolbookreviewblog
• Books for Christian Girls
• Mere Orthodoxy » Culture
• Tim Challies | Book Reviews
• Crosswalk » Book
• Iola Goulton | Contemporary Christian romance with a Kiwi twist
• Tressa's Wishful Endings
• Eerdmans Publishing
• RADIANT LIGHT | Christian Book Reviews
• Books At a Glance
• Splashesofjoy
• The Christian Fiction Girl | Christian Fiction Reviews Blog
• Britt Reads Fiction | Christian Fiction/Romance Novel Reviews
• Heidi Reads | Christian romance fiction
• Biblical Counseling Coalition » Books
• Older & Smarter?
• Christian Bookshelf Reviews
• Ashley's Bookshelf
• Life, love, writing
• Aryn the Libraryan
• Aryn the Libraryan | A Fun And Faith Filled Christian Book Blog
• Bible Review Blog
• Reviews from the Heart
• Bible Buying Guide | Bible Reviews
• Amber Thiessen Blog
• Christian Feminism Today | Book Reviews
• Christian Fiction and More
• Chalmers' Blog
• Christian Book Shop Talk
• Live. Love. Read | Christian book blogger
• Thoughts of a Sojourner
• Henry Happens and other tales of life in the wilderness
• Kristina Hall
• Panorama of a Book Saint
• The Diamond Mine of Christian Fiction
• Little Book, Big Story
• Snyder's Soapbox
• Kentucky Book Lover
• Kingdom Books Review
• Finding God Among Us » Books
• Dr Markus McDowell Blog
• I'm All Booked
• Books 4 Christian Kids
• Romances of the Cross
• Aminata Coote
• Godly Book Reviews
• Lutheran Book Review
• ChristFocus Book Club | Christian Non-Fiction Books Blog
• Beyond the Read
• Christian Bergers Book Reviews
• Fruitful Reader
• Ridge Top Book Blog » Christian Fiction
• Christian Indie Book Reviews
• Prairie Sky Book Reviews | Books on Christianity
• Good Book Mom Blog
• Pam Funke's Book Reviews
• Pegg's Blog | Writer, Fiber Artist, Shepherd
• Finding God Among Us
• Think on These Things
• The Christian Book Review Blog
• Matthew J Diaz | Blog
• 2BEINSPIRED
• Theotots Blog
• The Parable Girl Speaks
• Christian Book Finds
• Christian Bookaholic | Christian Book Reviews
• Christian Chick's Thoughts | Inspirational Christian Fiction Reviews Blog
• Paul S Brandt | Indie Christian Book Reviews
• Relz Reviewz | Your source for Christian fiction reviews
• Bible Reviewer

Christian Book Review Bloggers

• Christian Book Review Newsletter

Christian Book Review Blogs

Here are 100 Best Christian Book Review Blogs you should follow in 2024

1. The Englewood Review of Books

2. Redeemed Reader | Christian Book Reviews for Parents.

3. Book Woman Joan | Christian Genre Books Review

4. Operation Actually Read Bible | Christian Book Review Blog

5. Reviews by Peter | Christian Fiction Reviews

6. Homeschoolbookreviewblog

7. Books for Christian Girls

8. Mere Orthodoxy » Culture

9. Tim Challies | Book Reviews

10. Crosswalk » Book

11. Iola Goulton | Contemporary Christian romance with a Kiwi twist

12. Tressa's Wishful Endings

13. Eerdmans Publishing

14. RADIANT LIGHT | Christian Book Reviews

15. Books At a Glance

16. Splashesofjoy

17. The Christian Fiction Girl | Christian Fiction Reviews Blog

18. Britt Reads Fiction | Christian Fiction/Romance Novel Reviews

19. Heidi Reads | Christian romance fiction

20. Biblical Counseling Coalition » Books

21. Older & Smarter?

22. Christian Bookshelf Reviews

23. Ashley's Bookshelf

24. Life, love, writing

25. Aryn the Libraryan

26. Aryn the Libraryan | A Fun And Faith Filled Christian Book Blog

27. Bible Review Blog

28. Reviews from the Heart

29. Bible Buying Guide | Bible Reviews

30. Amber Thiessen Blog

31. Christian Feminism Today | Book Reviews

32. Christian Fiction and More

33. Chalmers' Blog

34. Christian Book Shop Talk

35. Live. Love. Read | Christian book blogger

36. Thoughts of a Sojourner

37. Henry Happens and other tales of life in the wilderness

38. Kristina Hall

39. Panorama of a Book Saint

40. The Diamond Mine of Christian Fiction

41. Little Book, Big Story

42. Snyder's Soapbox

43. Kentucky Book Lover

44. Kingdom Books Review

45. Finding God Among Us » Books

46. Dr Markus McDowell Blog

47. I'm All Booked

48. Books 4 Christian Kids

49. Romances of the Cross

50. Aminata Coote

51. Godly Book Reviews

52. Lutheran Book Review

53. ChristFocus Book Club | Christian Non-Fiction Books Blog

54. Beyond the Read

55. Christian Bergers Book Reviews

56. Fruitful Reader

57. Ridge Top Book Blog » Christian Fiction

58. Christian Indie Book Reviews

59. Prairie Sky Book Reviews | Books on Christianity

60. Good Book Mom Blog

61. Pam Funke's Book Reviews

62. Pegg's Blog | Writer, Fiber Artist, Shepherd

63. Finding God Among Us

64. Think on These Things

65. The Christian Book Review Blog

66. Matthew J Diaz | Blog

67. 2BEINSPIRED

68. Theotots Blog

69. The Parable Girl Speaks

70. Christian Book Finds

71. Christian Bookaholic | Christian Book Reviews

72. Christian Chick's Thoughts | Inspirational Christian Fiction Reviews Blog

73. Paul S Brandt | Indie Christian Book Reviews

74. Relz Reviewz | Your source for Christian fiction reviews

75. Bible Reviewer

Media Contact Database

Magazine newsletter.

Get your book reviewed by a professioanl reviewer for $50!

Get your book reviewed by a professional reviewer

Submit your book to Reedsy Discovery for $50.

Best Christian Book Review Blogs in 2024

Showing 21 blogs that match your search.

Reedsy Discovery

https://reedsy.com/discovery

Give your indie book the launch that it deserves! Submit your book to over 150 reviewers and gain exposure to thousands of readers in your genre. If our reviewers like what they read, your book will get a high-quality review and will be promoted on the Discover feed, where readers upvote their favorite titles. The top books from each week will be featured in our weekly newsletters.

Blogger : Reedsy

Genres : Christian

🌐 Domain authority: 78

👀 Average monthly visits: 600,000 p/mo

💌 Preferred contact method: Website contact form

⭐️ Accepts indie books? Yes

The Bookish Elf

https://www.bookishelf.com/

The Bookish Elf is a site you can rely on for book reviews, author interviews, book recommendations, and all things books.

Blogger : Mitul Patel

🌐 Domain authority: 40

👀 Average monthly visits: 30,000 p/mo

The LitBuzz

https://www.thelitbuzz.com

A book review site featuring a diverse Hive of voices reading and sharing, we have a vast palette. We welcome both indie and traditionally-published authors - at no charge for reviews, ever.

Blogger : The LitBuzz Hive

🌐 Domain authority: 25

👀 Average monthly visits: 5,000 p/mo

💌 Preferred contact method: Email

Literary Titan

https://literarytitan.com/

We review books, conduct author interviews, and have monthly book awards.

Blogger : Thomas Anderson

🌐 Domain authority: 30

👀 Average monthly visits: 12,000 p/mo

The LitBuzz Hive

https://www.thelitbuzz.com/

🌐 Domain authority: 7

👀 Average monthly visits: 300 p/mo

Jersey Girl Book Reviews

http://www.jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot.com/

Genres: I will only read and review books that peaks my interest. Books from the erotica genre will be featured on my sister book review blog site: Jersey Girl Sizzling Book Reviews. My favorite genres are: Chick Lit, Contemporary Romance, Women's Fiction, Christian Fiction and Mystery Suspense Thrillers. I do not like Children's's Books, Poetry, Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Paranormal or Horror books, please do not send me a request for review for the books in these genres.

Blogger : Kathleen Higgins-Anderson

👀 Average monthly visits: 3,000 p/mo

The Book Nanny

https://thebooknanny.com/

The Book Nanny gives readers a look inside their book without spoilers. We give information about the violence, adult content and language a book contains so readers can find books that fit their media standards.

Blogger : Emily Campbell

🌐 Domain authority: 3

👀 Average monthly visits: 6,000 p/mo

Read and Rated

https://readandrated.com/

Read and Rated, where all good books come to be reviewed! Find me on twitter too @ReadandRated

Blogger : Lisa Hall

🌐 Domain authority: 17

https://bookvue.wordpress.com/

Book Vue was born out of the editor's restless desire to share with the world thoughts and opinions on some of the greatest books out there. The honesty behind each review is the essence of the blog.

Blogger : Chitra Iyer

🌐 Domain authority: 5

👀 Average monthly visits: 100 p/mo

https://booksnest.co.uk/

I am an award-winning book blogger with a love of reading and passion for books, I love writing about books on my blog and getting involved in this wonderful community!

Blogger : Beth Bartholomew

🌐 Domain authority: 21

👀 Average monthly visits: 7,200 p/mo

Bookbugworld

https://bookbugworld.com/

Bookbugworld stays true to its promise. A fun and niche virtual space where you can discuss the books you love or find new ones to add to your TBR.

Blogger : Rejitha

🌐 Domain authority: 12

👀 Average monthly visits: 250 p/mo

Redeemed Reader

http://www.redeemedreader.com/

We love the classics, but we also review lots of new books. In fact, most of our reviews are of books published within the last two or three years. This is partly because these books will be more readily available at your local library, but we also believe that reading newer books helps us define our salt-and-light mission.

Blogger : The Redeemed Reader Team

👀 Average monthly visits: 10,000 p/mo

Quill and Quire

https://quillandquire.com/

Quill & Quire is the magazine of the Canadian book trade. The magazine reviews around 400 new titles each year, offering the most comprehensive look at Canadian-authored books in the country.

Blogger : The Q&Q Team

🌐 Domain authority: 57

👀 Average monthly visits: 81,500 p/mo

💌 Preferred contact method: Mail

⭐️ Accepts indie books? No

I'm All Booked Up

https://imallbookedup.com/

We write book reviews, list posts and author interviews. We're open to guest posts.

Blogger : Christy and Claire

Independent Book Review

https://independentbookreview.com/

Independent Book Review is a celebration of small press and self-published books.

Blogger : Joseph

👀 Average monthly visits: 2,500 p/mo

So you want to find a book blog?

If you’re a voracious reader, you might think of a book blog as an oasis in the middle of the desert: a place on the Internet that brims with talk about books, books, and more books.

Well, good news — we built this directory of the 200 of the best book blogs  to satiate your thirst. Take a walk around, use the filters to narrow down your search to blogs in your preferred genre, and feel free to bookmark this page and come back, as we do update it regularly with more of the best book blogs out there. 

If you’re an aspiring author, you might see a book blog more as a book review blog: a place where you can get your yet-to-be published book reviewed. In that case, you’ll be glad to know that most of the book blogs in our directory are open to review requests and accept indie books! We expressly designed this page (and our book marketing platform, Reedsy Discovery ) to be useful to indie book authors who need book reviews. If you’re wondering how to approach a book blog for a review request, please read on. 

You’ve found a book blog. Now what? 

Let’s say that you’re an author, and you’ve found a couple of book blogs that would be perfect fits to review your book. What now? Here are some tips as you go about getting your book reviews:

• Be sure to read the review policy. First, check that the book blog you’re querying is open to review requests. If that’s the fortunate case, carefully read the blog’s review policy and make sure that you follow the directions to a T.  
• Individualize your pitches. Book bloggers will be able to immediately tell apart the bulk pitches, which simply come across as thoughtless and indifferent. If you didn’t take the time to craft a good pitch, why should the blogger take the time to read your book? Personalize each pitch to up your chances of getting a response. 
• Format your book in a professional manner before sending it out. Ensure that your manuscript isn’t presented sloppily. If the book blogger asks for a digital ARC, you might want to check out apps such as Instafreebie or Bookfunnel. 
• Create a spreadsheet to track your progress. Wading through so many book blogs can be troublesome — not to mention trying to remember which ones you’ve already contacted. To save yourself the time and trouble, use a simple Excel spreadsheet to keep track of your progress (and results). 

Looking to learn even more about the process? Awesome 👍 For a detailed guide, check out this post that’s all about getting book reviews . 

Join a community of over 1 million authors

Reedsy is more than just a blog. Become a member today to discover how we can help you publish a beautiful book.

Save your shortlist

Enter your email address to save your shortlist so that you don't lose it!

By continuing, you will also receive Reedsy's weekly publishing tips and access to our free webinars.

We sent over your shortlist. Thank you for using Reedsy's Book Review Blogs Directory, happy publishing! 🙌

It's easier than you think

Submit your book to Reedsy Discovery and choose from hundreds of reviewers.

1 million authors trust the professionals on Reedsy. Come meet them.

Enter your email or get started with a social account:

• Translations
• Customer Service
• Shipping & Delivery
• eBook Troubleshooting

View All Bibles

• See everything in this category

I need a Bible...

• to use everyday
• with larger print
• for my quiet time
• for teenagers
• for church or school
• to give away
• to listen to
• for children
• for journalling

Shop by Version

• Children's

Shop by Type

• Budget Bibles
• Gift Bibles
• Graphic Bibles
• Study Bibles

View All Bible Study

Shop by topic.

• Book by Book
• The Commentary List
• Bible Overview
• Old Testament
• New Testament
• For teenagers

Shop by Subject

• Contentment
• Money & Work

Shop by Series

• God's Word For You
• Good Book Guides
• Interactive Bible Studies
• Pathway Guides
• Commentaries
• Small Group Studies
• Multimedia studies
• One-to-One studies

View All Daily Bible Reading

• View everything in this category
• Subscriptions
• Explore (adults)

Shop by Age

• Explore by the book
• Engage (teenagers)
• Discover (11-13)
• Beginning with God (preschoolers)
• Table Talk (families)

View All Outreach

Christianity explored ministries.

• Christianity Explored
• Life Explored
• Discipleship Explored
• Hope Explored
• Soul (14+ yrs)
• CY (11-14 yrs)
• Epic Explorers (kids)
• Universal Editions
• Promotional materials
• Booklets and tracts
• Evangelistic Books
• Evangelistic Booklets and tracts
• Customised Gospels
• Customised Flyers
• Outreach Training
• Hymns We Love
• Christianity Explained
• Engaging with...
• Jesus and You
• Live Grow Know
• Questioning Faith
• Putting Parenting to Bed
• Preparing for Marriage
• Two Ways to Live
• Wonderfully Made

Shop by Category

• Other Languages
• Simple English
• Questioning Faith Series
• Honest Evangelism

View All Ministry

Shop by course.

• Engaging with
• Gospel Shaped Church
• Trellis and Vine Resources
• Living Christianity
• Childrens' Work
• Church planting
• Short Courses In Practical Minstry
• Discipleship

Live, Grow, Know

View all christian living.

• About the Bible
• Apologetics
• Church History
• Family and Parenting
• Gender and Sexuality
• Marriage & Relationships
• Mental Health
• Spirituality
• Work & Money

Shop by Occasion

• Dedications
• Gift Vouchers
• Reformation
• Five Things to Pray
• Gospel-Centred
• Questions Christians Ask
• Talking Points
• Love Your Church

Shop by Author

• Christopher Ash
• Tim Chester
• Catalina Echeverri
• Timothy Keller
• Sally Lloyd Jones
• Trillia Newbell
• Rebecca Manley Pippert
• Vaughan Roberts
• Sinclair Ferguson
• Matt Chandler
• John Lennox
• Sam Allberry
• Kevin DeYoung
• Alistair Begg
• The Garden, the Curtain and the Cross
• To Seek and to Save
• Enjoying God
• Can Science Explain Everything?
• Is God anti-gay?
• Galatians For You
• Bundles and Sets

View All Children

• God's Big Promises
• Tales that Tell the Truth
• The Christmas Promise Suite
• The Garden, the Curtain, and the Cross Series
• Wherever You Go
• God's Very Good Idea
• Seek and Find
• Bake through the Bible
• Colin Buchanan
• Sing the Bible
• Prize Sample Box
• All About...
• Beginning with God
• Big Questions
• Biographies for Kids
• Biographies for 7-12s
• Epic Explorers
• Eric Says...
• How Do I tracts
• Inspector Smart
• Light Keepers
• Little Me, Big God
• Tales...Board Books
• Training Young Hearts
• Very Best Bible Stories
• Wherever You Go Series
• Why Did Jesus tracts
• Bible Reading
• Colouring and Activity Books
• CDs and DVDs
• Children's Bibles
• Children's workers
• Sunday School
• Illustrations
• Outreach resources
• Board Books

View All Youth

• Engage NIV Youth Bible
• Best News Ever
• Dig-In Discipleship
• Discipleship Training Series
• Growing Young Disciples
• Little Black Books
• The Junction
• Turn upside down
• Bible Studies
• Daily Bible Reading
• Summer Camps
• Youthworkers

Top 7 Christian Book Reviewers To Follow In 2021

One of the privileges we have as a publisher is working with book reviewers. Our reviewers live all over the world, and we’re thankful for the honest insights and feedback they offer while volunteering for our team.

Reviewers regularly share info about upcoming releases by The Good Book Company and from several other publishers as well. They share thoughtful recommendations of books to build others up in Christ.

We asked some of the many amazing Christian book reviewers we recommend following in 2021 to tell us a little about themselves.

1. The Good Book Mom

Favorite book of 2020: I read a lot of Dr. Seuss growing up and my favorite book that I've reviewed this year is Melissa Kruger's "Wherever You Go, I Want You to Know". It's whimsical, fun, beautiful, and biblical!

Where to follow: www.GoodBookMom.com is my website and my main social platform is Instagram: @goodbookmom .

We recommend this reviewer for: Fun photos of kids’ books, with a mix of videos and written reviews, as well as ideas such as gift lists.

2. Bailey T. Hurley

Genres: Women’s nonfiction and children's books.

Favorite book of 2020: “The Prisoners, the Earthquake and the Midnight Song”. As my kids get older, I have been on a mad search for godly, but creative, children's books. The entire “Tales that Tell the Truth” series is awesome, and hits the mark for quality kids’ reading, but this book was especially fun. My son loved the engaging language and I was happy to have a story from the Bible that hadn't been overdone.

Where to follow: baileythurley.com | IG: @bailey.t.hurley

We recommend this reviewer for: Short, simple reviews with great photos and encouragement.

3. Aaron Lee

Genres: Theology, Christian Living, Children and Youth.

Favorite book of 2020: So many good ones. I can't decide!

Where to follow: Instagram: @diveindigdeep

We recommend this reviewer for: Live IGTV interviews with authors, gorgeous book photos, and thorough reviews including helpful summaries of key points.

4. Little Book, Big Story

Genres: I love reviewing beautiful picture books, classic children's literature, Bible resources for families, and middle-grade fantasy.

Favorite book of 2020: I suppose the honor of "Best Book I Reviewed in 2020" would have to go to Jonathan Rogers' delightful “Wilderking” trilogy. We read them for the third (and fourth!) time this summer, and they are wonderful stories, with powerful themes and certain scenes that have brought our family a lot of comfort and encouragement during this wild year.

Where to follow: Little Book, Big Story  ( http://littlebookbigstory.com/ )

We recommend this reviewer for: Helpful lists of the best books on particular topics, as well as reviews of whole series and personal reflections on why certain books mean so much.

5. Alistair Chalmers

Genres: Christian life and theology.

Favorite book of 2020: " Out of the Black Shadows " — this was my favourite book to review because the testimony of Stephen Lungu is wonderfully Christ-exalting and God-glorifying. It's amazing to hear how God can take someone who planned to hurt and kill Christians, to be a missionary calling people to come to Jesus. 

Where to follow: https://achalmersblog.com

We recommend this reviewer for: Wonderful quotes from the books as well as helpful summaries.

6. Cam Hyde

Genres: Christian Living, theology, and good children's books.

Favorite book of 2020: “Reenchanting Humanity” by Owen Strachan.

Where to follow: www.camlhyde.com and @camlhyde on Instagram.

We recommend this reviewer for: Suggestions for who will most appreciate each book and why.

7. Andy Cassler

Genres: Christian living/theology.

Favorite book of 2020: Tie between “Finding the Right Hills to Die On” by Gavin Ortlund (Crossway) and “Where is God in all the Suffering?” by Amy Orr-Ewing (TGBC).

Where to follow: Instagram - @mightytomany

We recommend this reviewer for: A helpful personal perspective on books and authors to give context for Andy’s insights as he reviews.

Would you like to join our reviewer program? Please email [email protected] and let us know why you’d like to volunteer with this team as well as where you’re sharing reviews about Christian books.

Bethany McIlrath

Bethany McIlrath loves to get lost in a book and to help others discover their next read in her marketing role at The Good Book Company. When she's not reading stories, she's usually writing them or dreaming about them as she comes up with real-life creative adventures for friends, her husband, and a doorbell-like dog named Indy. Serving in children's ministry is also one of her greatest joys.

Featured product

Wherever You Go, I Want You to Know...

Related titles.

• Aryn’s BookShelf: The Best Christian Book Club 4 Bookish Christian Women
• Christian Blogging Tips For Better Blogging
• How to Set Goals with God’s Grace and Favor
• Free 5 Day Back to the Bible Challenge
• Free 5 Keys to Planning a Successful Day
• Finding Joy in Your Home Free E-Course
• Free 5 Day Mindful Eating Challenge
• Free 4 Week Back to Fitness Challenge
• Bookish Freebies
• Members Resource Library
• Bible Studies
• Devotionals
• Educational / Homeschool
• Marriage Books
• Parenting Books
• Spiritual Growth Books
• Biblical Fiction
• Christian Adventures
• Christian Fantasy
• Christian Romance
• Christian Mysteries
• Contemporary Christian Fiction
• Historical Fiction
• Books for Kids
• Young Adult Books
• 3 Steps to Salvation: Faith 101
• Accessibility
• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions

Aryn The Libraryan: Christian Book Blog

Love God, Love Books, Pass it on. That’s the goal here. Whether you read one book at a time or 6, I think you’ll find plenty of quality Christian books for everyone in your family, as you browse.

There’s nothing like a good book to ease the weight of the day, build your faith, and lighten the mood all at the same time. And if you want to capture the lessons you’ve learned as you read, so you can review and remember them, then I have just the gift for you! Grab your free Faith and Fiction Reading Devotional Journal , and dive in!

Browse around the Christian book reviews and choose a new friend~I mean book~and enjoy! Please let me know if you need any assistance!

Christian Book Reviews: Fiction

Christian Nonfiction

Books for Children and Teens

Finding Hidden Treasures

Julia Bettencourt Blog

Writing to Inspire

Tips for Reviewing a Christian Book

What holds you back from making a book or product review?  For me, it’s that I’m in a hurry or busy, and I just can’t say something without thinking about it first.  I never know what to say on the spur of the moment. I hate writing even a line or two rushed.  Why?  Because I don’t like writing words down without having some structure to them.  It takes me a few minutes to form my thoughts.

I’m sure people don’t review my books on Amazon for the same reason.  So, to help my fellow Christian authors and myself, I thought I’d take the time to help you say what you think.  When it boils down to it, a review is just an honest opinion of a book that someone has read or a product that someone used.  A review is what we think of something.

I thought I’d share some of the things I’ve learned about making Christian book reviews online after purchasing. Basically I’m talking about giving reviews for books on Amazon, but these things work elsewhere as well. We will be concentrating on non-fiction Christian books.

First, before making a review of any book read the book first. 

That means read the entire book. That’s common sense.  Right?  I glance through the reviews on Amazon from time to time and I know that many people make book reviews without reading the books first and also make product reviews without ever using that product. Reading an entire book in the Christian realm before reviewing is even more important. You need to know if that author strayed from the truth of God’s Word. That’s important.

Questions to think about when writing a review for a non-fiction Christian book:

You don’t need to answer ALL of these questions in a book review, but these are some of the things I like to mull over first.  Maybe they will be helpful to some of you who struggle when that little note pops up or you get an email to review a book.  Sometimes just concentrating on one thing for your review is all you need.  Book reviews are not big long reports, they are just simply a glimpse of what you thought about a book.

These are some things to think about in preparation to write a book review on Amazon.  Take a few or just one thing and concentrate on it for a review if you struggle with what to say. I never try to tackle all of them. It depends what kind of mood I’m in as to which one(s) I focus on in a single review.

These are for reviewing non-fiction Christian books. For fiction, you would need to add other things concerning the characters and plot.

I’m sure this list could have other things included. These are just things that I like to think through myself before writing a review. If you have other things you weigh before doing a book review, please leave a comment on this post.

Think about it…

• How did you hear about this book?
• What kind of book is it?
• How did it affect you?
• What valuable lesson did you learn by reading it?
• Did it help you grow spiritually in some way?
• Did it cause you to want to serve the Lord more vibrantly?
• Did it cause you to praise the Lord?
• Did a particular chapter or prevailing thought change your view about something?
• What can you say about the writing style?
• Did the book progress in a logical fashion?
• Is it biblically sound in it’s conclusions?
• Have you read other books by this author?
• Can you recommend this book to others?

Practical Tips

• Mention the author by name in your review.
• Mention the book title in your review.
• Use some adjectives throughout your review. As you know, adjectives are describing words, and when you write a review you are describing something.  Adjectives not only help you describe the book as a reviewer, but helps other customers evaluate the book a little more clearly. It also allows the author to get a picture of how you received the book. For example, was it inspiring, moving, humorous, boring, engaging, uplifting, compelling, weak, depressing, entertaining, dull, thought-provoking, insightful, etc.?
• “Overall, I thought this book…”
• This book is special to me because…”
• “I would (or wouldn’t) recommend this book because…”
• “I’m glad (or not glad) that I read this book because…”
• “This book would make a good gift for someone who…”
• The most valuable lesson I learned from this book is…”
• I would recommend the author of this book because…”

Things not to do in a Christian book review:

• Don’t write a report instead of a review . The biggest thing to remember when writing a book review for anyone is that you are not writing a book report.  You are not doing this for a grade in school or to include all those things that a book report might include.
• Be careful not to quote something from a book out of context. If you want to call attention to something, refer to it by a subject, chapter, or page if there is the least possibility that it could be taken the wrong way.  When you quote something in a review, others reading your review may jump to conclusions because quotes by themselves may convey a different meaning and can easily be taken out of context than what the author intended.
• Don’t call attention to grammatical or spelling mistakes within your review. Use a contact email or mailing address for that.  While I’m sure any author would appreciate the heads up, there is no need to do it publicly.  That’s kind of like the opposite of being tenderhearted and kind. Isn’t it? If you can’t find a contact through their author page on Amazon, search them online. You’ll probably find a Facebook or blog to contact them.
• Don’t mention your relationship with the author.  People want to hear an honest review.  If you say you are someone’s mother, sister, or best friend, your review kind of becomes pointless.  Also Amazon doesn’t allow reviews by people related to a self-published author of KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing), so you could be hurting the author and setting them up to be penalized by Amazon, so please don’t do that to your relative and friend authors.
• Don’t be rude. I always say that Jesus knew the internet was coming . When He said to be kind and tenderhearted, He meant online too. Giving a review isn’t an excuse for bad manners and a chance to be unkind. You can give a truthful or even what is deemed a negative review without being rude and mean. Everyone should choose their words carefully when typing anything online, but especially Christians!
• Don’t recommend a book on Amazon that you question the theology or doctrine of the author when it comes to Christian books. As Christians, we really do have to be careful what we recommend. That’s why reading an entire book is so important. We have to know if what the author is teaching is contrary to the Bible.
• Don’t be argumentative if you don’t believe that the author is biblically sound. This kind of goes along with #5 of not being rude, but I’ll mention it anyway. You really can say something negative in a book review without resorting to argumentative statements. Personally, I think just stating that you disagree with a certain view in the book is sufficient, and you can even site a Bible verse reference if you want; however, just keep in mind that whatever you say publicly always reflects on the cause of Christ. You can state your view logistically and methodically, but when you start an argumentative thread in a review, you cause others to jump in and argue too. That’s isn’t encouraging others in the body of Christ. It also isn’t showing the love of Christ to the world. If you want to say something more than a brief statement of disagreement with the author’s position, take that up with the author or their publisher through a different channel than in a book review on a shopping site such as Amazon.

From my point of view…

I know that we as Christians are supposed to expose false doctrines and false teachers. There is so much in the Bible concerning that, but I just don’t see an Amazon review as really the place to debate doctrine and theology, even if you don’t believe the same way as the author.

The problem is that argumentative reviews over what we think is biblical sometimes get a lot of comments and feedback because people feel so passionate about what they believe. In the end, that book and author may get more exposure because of those reviews, so you might end up doing the opposite of what you think you are doing. You may cause more people to be interested in the very book you don’t agree with biblically when you go about it in an argumentative way.

Unfortunately, many Christians that accuse other believers about something in an Amazon review aren’t really concerned with doctrine or theology anyway. They accuse other believers in areas that we have Christian freedom in, so I think so much of the arguing we see among Christians through Amazon reviews is over things that aren’t really doctrine or false teaching. As Christians, we really do have to be responsible and not recommend those who tout teachings that are contrary to Christ. I’m definitely not saying that there aren’t authors and teachers promoting false doctrine. The internet is full of them. I just think most of the arguing among Christians online isn’t about false doctrine or theology at all. It’s about other things. I know false teaching is a prominent problem, I just feel that we don’t have to bring our arguing online and fight among believers in such a public way. So, don’t get me wrong, I know there is a lot of unbiblical teaching out there. Many Christians are recommending authors and teachers just because those people are popular. I see it all over Christian women blogs and it hurts my very soul. So many Christian women promote Bible studies and women’s teachers that just are way off in their doctrine and theology. I just don’t see how voicing your opinion and starting an argument about it in an Amazon book review does any good. I think there are other ways to deal with the problem. I do know that we do need to draw a line in the sand and not attach ourselves or promote those people. We do have to be careful about who we give God speed .

If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed:  For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.  2 John 2:10-11 (KJV)

It all goes back to those words we use a Christians. We have to choose them very carefully. When making a book review such as on Amazon, we not only have to make our summaries well thought out, but we have to bear in mind that we are representing Christ in whatever we do and say.

Thanks so much for stopping in.  I hope these tips have helped you in some way, and I trust you will remember to not only write a review on any of my books that you have read, but help out other authors, especially those Christian ones, by doing the same if you have purchased and read their books.  A book review is a gift to an author. You will be a blessing to them!

Have a lovely day, Julia

A s an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. So thanks for checking out the Amazon products below.   See my advertising policy  here .

You may also like...

Winter Writing Prompts

Summer Writing Prompts

Devotional Theme Writing Starters

SEARCH MY BOOK REVIEWS

Subscribe to feed.

SUBSCRIBE TO EMAILS

Enter your email address:

THE MASTER LIST

• Books I've read so far...

Home of the Lucy Maud Montgomery Reading Challenge

Home of the chronicles of narnia reading challenge, view posts by category.

• Adoption (10)
• Adventure (12)
• Author Highlight (17)
• Biography (30)
• Blog News (18)
• Blog Tour (10)
• Bookclub (100)
• Booking Through Thursday (27)
• Books for Babies (10)
• C.S. Lewis (10)
• Carrie's Favorites (16)
• Challenge (40)
• Children's Classics (115)
• childrens (133)
• Christian Fiction (48)
• Christianity (218)
• Christmas (76)
• Chronicles of Narnia Reading Challenge (71)
• Classics (83)
• Community (102)
• Disney Books (26)
• Early Chapter Book (5)
• Fantasy (17)
• fiction (3)
• General Fiction (96)
• Giveaway (217)
• Guest Post (15)
• Historical Fiction (27)
• History (74)
• Hymn Encouragement (9)
• I'll Pass (1)
• Jonathan (20)
• Kid Picks (20)
• L.M. Montgomery Challenge (122)
• Learning with Kids (104)
• marriage (16)
• Memoir (56)
• MIddle Grade (113)
• Misc. (157)
• Movie Review (36)
• Mystery (24)
• Narnia Week (16)
• Non-fiction (23)
• Non-Fiction (14)
• Ocean Life (7)
• Parenting (32)
• Personal (99)
• Publisher Highlight (11)
• Read Aloud (4)
• Read Aloud Thursday (81)
• Reader's Diary (8)
• Reading as a Ministry (4)
• resources (1)
• Romance (1)
• Science Fiction (4)
• Social Issues (16)
• Western (3)
• What's On Your Nightstand (71)
• Women's Interests (62)
• YA Fiction (36)
• Year in Review (3)

Friends and Followers

Closed chapters, friday, july 23, 2021, books i read in july (but did not enjoy).

 When I look at my reading stack for July, I feel like I was more of a mechanical reader who was reading books simply because they are "supposed" to be read and not so much because I was enjoying them. I read them on the recommendation of others and my dislike of them is in no way meant to disparage the other readers. Everyone likes what they like in literature and I just didn't like these books for one reason or another. Are we all clear on that point? If you love these books, don't take unnecessary offense. :)

This book follows the trails of four women: Lottie Wilkins, Rose Arbuthnot, Mrs. Fisher and Lady Caroline Dester. Each woman is looking for some sort of escape from her life in England and when a castle is offered up for rent during the month of April on the Italian coast, the women pitch in and spring for it. Their hope is for a break from the monotony of duty, essentially. They each have ways in which they are simply tired of "being good" and want a vacation from life's constant demands upon them. A vacation in a castle in Italy seems just the ticket. (Honestly? It's hard to blame them, eh?) They go to Italy and stay in the castle, and the overriding theme is that the castle atmosphere is full of the magic necessary to bring all things in life to rights, mending broken hearts and opening closed ones.

On the one hand, I liked the idea of a month long vacation in a castle. That idea is enormously tempting. To be able to travel to unfamiliar places and escape the norm can be a truly beautiful and blessed thing which I cannot deny! I found Elizabeth Von Arnim's writing style to be quite pleasant and engaging. I thought she had a few really clever lines and a way with words which I cannot complain about in the slightest. Then too, the way the story was written rubbed me a bit wrong in that here you had four discontented female (two of whom were married) who were sneaking away from husbands and family strictly because they were "tired of being good all of the time." In that way, this book reads as a precursor to Eat, Pray, Love -- a book I think has had disastrous effects on married women everywhere.

Interesting to note, if you'll circle with me back to Montgomery for a moment, is that The Blue Castle was published in 1926. I think the character of Valancy would have gotten along rather famously with the women at the Italian castle. I would venture a guess that this book had its influence not only in Montgomery's book writings but also in her personal thought life and journals as she battled with her own demons of discontent.

All in all, I can't say that I wholly disliked The Enchanted April . However, I can see things about it that I definitely do not like and that rub me the wrong way. I see where the message of escaping "doing good" leads and that makes me ever so cautious about The Enchanted April on the whole. 

My two-cents!

This book tells the story of Charity Royall who was adopted by Mr. and Mrs. Royall in name only, but not legally. Mrs. Royall passes away and Charity is the lone woman in the house in this coming-of-age story where she has to deal with both the inappropriate attentions of Mr. Royall and also with the inappropriate attentions of one Lucias Harney. ( Anyone with a name like Lucias Harney . . . . ) 

I believe the intelligent response to this read is to say: "Charity learns what true love and sacrifice really look like." But all I can say is: "Charity was immature and unlikeable from start to finish and there wasn't a man in the book to admire. Read it and weep." It felt bitter from beginning to end and I was infinitely relieved to be done with it.

I had a few other Wharton's on my shelf yet to be read ( The House of Mirth and The Age of Innocence ) but I came to the conclusion that I've had about as much fun with Wharton as I think I can bear. Her writing style was similar enough in the two stories that I did read, that I doubt I'll find much enjoyment in the others. Being a good reader though, I did research The Age of Innocence online before deciding too hastily against it. I read a synopsis or two and watched movie trailers on YouTube ( heh.... ) and decided that, no, I really don't want to read anymore Wharton! 

My four cents!

Philomena Lee was born and raised in Ireland. In 1952, when she was an unwed teenager, she gave birth to a baby boy who, through a series of events, was adopted by a couple in America. The baby boy was renamed Michael Hess and if you Google his name you'll find out why this book became important. 

I am an adoptive mother myself and I was very interested in reading Philomena to know and understand the mother better. What would a birth mother feel like, having her child taken from her? How would she live her life, knowing she had a son who was living on the other side of the world from her? Somewhat understandably, author Martin Sixsmith focused his attentions on the life of Michael Hess. Philomena was more of an after thought in the writing. That was disappointing, but it was made infuriating because Sixsmith spent 90% of the book discussing Hess's sexual orientation, preferences and encounters, burying any other topic available to him. 

I skated and skimmed my way through the book trying to avoid the salaciousness and get back to Philomena who, sadly, only re-entered the scene at the end of the book! Furthermore, if you check out any article about this read online, and make a study of the Goodreads reviews, you'll see that the people who interviewed for this book decry the absurdity of Sixsmith's writing. Sixsmith downright fabricated parts of Hess's life, making up conversations and scenarios, and seemed to want to dive more into the topic of Hess's homosexuality than his status as, oh, say, a basic human being with an interesting backstory. 

There is an incredibly interesting history of adoption between Ireland and American that absolutely can and should be explored. It was absolutely not researched or dealt with by Sixsmith in any productive or educational way. This book is an exploitive, explosive, fabricated obsession with sex, rather than dutifully told fact. 

If you would like to explore the topic of International adoptions - as specifically relates between Ireland and the U.S. - please do not read this book. If you want to get to know Philomena and her story, watch the movie and then watch Youtube clips of interviews she personally gave. Get to know her as a person. Get to know Michael as a person! But as the people who knew him suggest he is not really to be found within  the pages of this book -- don't bother with it!

My six cents! 

Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Incident at badamya, by dorothy gilman.

Have you read Dorothy Gilman before? Born in New Jersey, Gilman began writing children's stories under the name of Dorothy Gilman Butters. She dropped the name Butters after her divorce and began writing solely under her maiden name. On the heels of Agatha Christie, Gilman offered up the character of Emily Pollifax, a sixty year old woman who doubled as a member of the local garden club as well as a spy for the CIA. Mrs. Pollifax is the character that Gilman is most well known for, however she did write several other novels, including Incident at Badamya .

Incident at Badamya tells the story of sixteen-year-old Gen, daughter of an American missionary who has been raised in Burma. Due to a series of hardships, her father commits suicide in 1950, leaving his young daughter with a charge to find her own way back to America and to her aunt for guardianship. Gen leaves the village, where she had lived with her father, to hike along the river where she had observed a steamer ship. The ship had passed by the village on the day of her father's suicide and she hoped to secure passage onboard. The 1950's in post-independent Burma saw a lot of upheaval and civil unrest and Gen's journey isn't all that she had hoped. She ends up being captured and held with a group of Europeans, who had been onboard said steamer, for ransom.  

This book is part mystery but mostly suspense. Gilman's style of story telling is engaging and intelligent. It's clear that she has a good handle on world events as well as different world religions and philosophy which makes this an intriguing story to read. Gilman traveled extensively in her adult life and that set the stage for her Mrs. Pollifax series, but also aided her in crafting other tales such as this one. Gilman really is a joy and a pleasure to read. 

If you've not yet read Gilman, I'd recommend you start with Pollifax first as I think you'll like her best. But if you do have a chance to read any other of Gilman's works, I would also recommend you take the opportunity. I don't believe you would regret it.

Wednesday, June 30, 2021

Gerald and elizabeth, by d.e. stevenson.

If you've not yet read a D.E. Stevenson, I would recommend that you get to it! When people ask me what her books are most like, I commonly compare them to the Mitford or Miss Read series. They are very calm, usually have a happy ending, they contain solid characters and provide a good chuckle or two. These are very pleasant, light and engaging reads and I love them.

I dove into Gerald and Elizabeth immediately upon purchase. This book tells the story of a brother and sister duo. Gerald has hit rock bottom and as a trail or two going on in his life, whereas his sister Elizabeth has met with great success. The two aren't a perfect match but they love each other dearly and this book tells the story of how they help each other along, navigating heartbreak and clearing up mysteries. It is a fun, distracting read just as I expected that it would be. 

Gerald and Elizabeth , I noted when reading, felt different than some of Stevenson's other books. As usual, when I'm reading a book I don't stop to research anything about it until I am done so that I can focus on the story exclusively. An impression that I had when reading was that the times in which Stevenson were writing had changed to some extent. Her characters spoke of looser morals than in previous books (nothing torrid happens in the story at all , but characters are referenced). Airplane travel had entered into the picture and the gap between Scotland and England didn't seem quite so far as it had before - when her characters had to travel by train. There were just little notables which told me something was different about this particular book.

Sure enough, upon the conclusion of my reading, I went to research it. D.E. Stevenson wrote prolifically from 1932 to 1970. From the years 1952 to 1969 she wrote one novel a year! Gerald and Elizabeth was published in 1969 and is largely touted to be her final work which explains why her characters are a bit more lax and travel more accessible. Having read much of what she wrote in the earlier half of her career, it was fascinating to read a book that came towards the end of it. 

One thing that remains extremely unclear to me is how D.E. Stevenson concluded her life. In 1970 a sequel to Gerald and Elizabeth was published called The House of the Deer . While many websites list Gerald and Elizabeth as her last work, it would be more accurate to say that this was her last mini series. Apparently a collection of works were also published posthumously which I am now eager to get my hands on!

Who is an author that you just love to read over and over again? Is there an author that you just cannot get enough of? Care to share? If you're looking for a new writer to love and you haven't read Stevenson yet, well , I'll push her forward as an option. Again.

Wednesday, June 23, 2021

A place to hang the moon, by kate albus.

This book is set in England during the early stages of World War II as children were just being sent to billets outside of London. Siblings William, Edmund and Anna find themselves in an usual situation in that their grandmother has just passed away and there are no other relatives for them to be sent to live with. It's not exactly the most stable situation in England, so what will their solicitor choose to do with them? Dare they use the systems in place to evacuate children in order to find them a forever family? Certainly it's a bit of a different approach, but will it work? That's what we find out in A Place to Hang the Moon .

Kate Albus's writing style is clever and calm. Although this is obviously a high tense situation that the children find themselves in, it has a Narnia flavor about it. The kids are capable of seeing the adventure and understanding what is at stake for them. Yes, they meet with challenges but you are confident of their ability to overcome. The characters are believable and appealing enough to wish you could know them in real life. There isn't anything I disliked about this story.

I was delighted at the conclusion of the read to discover in the Acknowledgements that Albus herself is a fan of Narnia (hence Edmund) further cementing the friendship I feel towards her. You all know of my long fascination with both Narnia and The Mysterious Benedict Society . Put this piece of Middle Grade fiction high up on my list of Top Books Carrie Recommends. I can't think of anyone who wouldn't like it. If someone said that they weren't a fan, assume the fault is theirs and not the book's. Albus has done beautifully and I will look forward to reading anything else she writes in the future.  

Monday, June 21, 2021

Where'd you go, bernadette by maria semple.

I'm going to give you my regular Conservative Reader Alert straight up so that you know and understand that I didn't miss things. There are curse words scattered throughout the book, definitely more in the second half than the first. (That's to reel you in, see? Turn down those defenses.) There is also the issue of infidelity which I thought was handled in a very flippant manner and which completely and totally ignored the fact that such actions have significant consequences. Not to mention, these actions cause ridiculous amounts of pain. Semple wrote about the topic in a manner which suggested it was not only excusable and understandable, but also no big deal. I took huge issue with her handling of this topic. However, I will say she doesn't become explicit in her writing of the story and for that I remain grateful. Then, too, her writing style for this book is very unique and not altogether to my liking. 

After all of the above, are you asking yourself why I read it? I read it for fun . Just that.

Where'd You Go, Bernadette? was published in 2012, is a "National Bestseller", has loads of people and publications supporting it, and was made into a movie starring Cate Blanchett which I am now very curious to see. The book was written as if it would one day be made into a movie, and discerning readers will know exactly what I mean when I say that. Semple's writing style is very casual and goes above and beyond in describing any individual character's emotions and reactions in such a way that suggested to me that it was set up to be a screen play. Sometimes you can read a book and just know what the author was hoping would happen. Perhaps that is an unfair characterization of Semple, but there it is. The book reads like a movie and, for me, that's actually what ended up making it fun. I didn't read this book to think, so much as I read it to be entertained. And it was very, very entertaining.

The story is told through the eyes of Bernadette's fifteen-year-old daughter, Bee. We get to know their family and quirks through a series of e-mails, letters and second-hand accounts that Bee shares.T his is ultimately Bee's book about what happened to her mother. You could think of this story as a bit of a redemption to the likes of Eat, Pray, Love . Mom gets fed up with life. Mom hits some snags she doesn't know how to properly deal with. Mom disappears. But, in this case, mom comes back. (I don't feel like that spoils the book. It's obvious that's what's going to happen. If it didn't, this book was likely to read off as a murder mystery and the cutesy cover is your clue that story does not involve a murder.) The story is set in Seattle and Semple writes amusing descriptions of the city and its occupants. She has a very tongue-in-cheek style of humor and you will find yourself smirking as you read from time to time, especially if you are a reader with Idaho plates on your car.

Would I recommend this book liberally? No. It's not a perennial classic. Certain personalities will love it; others will flat out hate it. Both reactions are valid, I feel, in this case. There are things to be enjoyed and things to raise your eyebrows at.  If you are looking for a fun read and you want to know whether this book is worth your time, well, I don't feel altogether helpful except to tell you that Semple is a playful writer who seems as if she wants to have fun with a fun story. It isn't masterful by any stretch, but if you like a good comedy/drama on the screen, then you are probably of the inclination to like this story on the page as well. 

Wednesday, June 16, 2021

Each little bird that sings, by deborah wiles.

I know I've said this before (and I will totally say it again because it was A Very Impacting Thing) but I was once told that I liked books that were rather on the childish side and weren't as worthy of my reading time as I might believe. I disagreed then and I disagree even more heartily now. I'm really glad that when my kids were little I read as many Middle Grade fiction books as I did. Not only did I enjoy them but I poured a lot of time and energy into previewing books and building up a Legacy Library for my family. My kids are now teens and pre-teens. When they come to me and tell me that they finished one read and are looking for another, we can just take a quick little jaunt over to our home library shelves and find another. I've already read (most of) them and have a good idea what is there and am not scrambling for information.

Also, let's be real. I like Middle Grade fiction best and I now happily and very boldly embrace that fact. Don't let anyone tell you that the genre you like to read isn't worth your time. (Unless it's the Twilight Series or 50 Shades and then we need to have a serious sit down.)

I like Middle Grade Fiction but I don't care for much of what is being published these days. Picking up titles published anytime after the year 2010, I feel, is moderately risky business for the more conservative reader. I haven't spent a lot of time previewing new releases in recent years. That explained, I was out thrifting and I came across this title  Each Little Bird That Sings , by Deborah Wiles for about the fifteenth time and took that as a sign that I should buy it and check it out (which I proceeded to do). 

The other afternoon I was looking for a quick read so I snatched this one off the shelf and it occupied the next hour and a half of my life. I'm not remotely sorry about it. Now, if you should pick up Every Little Bird That Sings  on my recommendation know that you will open it, begin reading, and if you know me at all, you'll begin to wonder what I saw in it. Before you get antsy, hear me out.

This title opens up in the usual modern (2010+) way. The writing style begins as something I consider cheap, flippant, and too "grabby" in an effort to capture the reader's immediate attention. Authors these days have a way of dumbing down their words, appealing to a more base sense of humor which hardly requires anything from the reader. Another way to say that is that the writing style is unrefined. If you yourself also dislike modern novels, you perhaps know what I'm talking about. I almost didn't make it past the third chapter of this read but I decided to give the book a go mostly because I didn't feel like moving off the couch to find another book. What luck my laziness has brought me! In the end, while I didn't find this book to have a brilliance about it, I did find it to be very curious in that the entire subject of this book is death. 

Our protagonist is ten-year-old Comfort Snow who lives with her family at the local gravesite in the local funeral home. Everything in their life revolves around the topic of death. As the story begins we learn how how death is a very normal part of life for Comfort's family. Dead bodies are simply there, but they are not creepy. Comfort is nonplussed over this fact of life until her own elderly relatives die and their family is forced to say goodbye to those they personally love.

Wiles deals with this topic adroitly, using a ten year old to describe how children feel about death and how resilient they can actually be when it comes to this topic. Death is not, by any means, fun . Personally, we've had enough rounds of dealing with death in our family that I'd just as soon not talk about. I don't like death. It hurts. It is a reality of life and also a tender topic. That's what compelled me to go on reading this book. While Wiles' writing style is verging on flippant at the start, she settles down into her story and discusses the topic in a way that young readers can easily understand. Death does hurt. And yet it is a part of each and every beautiful life and nothing that we should ignore or shut out of our conversation and reflection. The story is so heavily focused on death that I found this book to be an interesting tool which others might wish to know about. You might read or discuss with your own kids. It is also a title I feel pretty confident that you would want to understand before you just blindly handed it over to a child to read on their own. Hence my little PSA here. 

Topics to be aware of:

• Death in general
• Death of elderly relatives
• Death of friendship
• Death of pets

Each Little Bird That Sings didn't turn out to be the light and fluffy read I was expecting. Nor was it flippant. For introducing the topic, or possibly talking through it with your kids, I found it balanced. I do plan to keep a copy on our bookshelves. I think our kids will find it a little on the strange side but it's interesting and compelling as well. I've never read anything quite like it and felt it was worth a mention for you to take with and do what you will.

Sunday, June 13, 2021

The compelling community: where god's power makes a church attractive, by mark dever & jamie dunlop.

I've had my copy of The Compelling Community for years but no note around these parts that I read it and/or reviewed it previously. I know I read it but it could be that I purposefully didn't make a note of it. Talking about church life can be a rather sensitive thing from time to time. One doesn't want to go around offending willy nilly, and people are always apt to think that you are talking about them online when you probably aren't. That can lead to Trouble which is why I imagine I let the read go without commentary. Let me assure you posthaste that I am not talking about any particular church, church body and/or specific person in writing this book review. I am writing a book review and working my thoughts out. That is all.

First, I'd like to suggest  say that every Christian ought to read this book. They should especially take the time to read this post-2020 when the whole world went haywire and community, as we knew the concept, blew up in our faces. It's time to return to community now (if you've not yet done so) and do so with renewed vigor to know how you can contribute to the building up of the body of believers to whom you belong.

A good question one should be asking one's delightful self is: "To what sort of community should I be returning?" One should hastily answer one's self: "I'm returning to a sinful community of which I am a chief sinner. I bring my own sin, making the sin pot bigger." If you were on a high social distancing horse, you should probably get off because staying there isn't beneficial to you or anyone.)

The church has been under attack this past year and no, I'm not talking about politically (but you could argue -- ). Over 30% of church goers (based on the last numbers I was referenced to) left the church to stay home and never came back. On the one hand, you could look at this as good news. The church has had been paired down. Those that remain are looking at each other, sometimes with new eyes, wondering how dangerous the others in the bunch might be. I'm not talking about germ dangers; I'm talking about fellowship dangers. Who formed what opinion during 2020? Who became more vocal, politically? Who became less? Who was more agitated by the demands of the day? Who chilled out? Who stopped working? Whose business took off and why? These and other speculative questions begin to fill the minds of those that remain in the pew and this is why I'd suggest that a serious, focused reading of The Compelling Community is rather essential in this exact moment in time.

In this book, Mark Dever and Jamie Dunlop write ignorant of anything that happened in 2020 (the book having been published in 2015). Untainted by political and social events, they focus their attention exclusively on scripture and what defines community within the church (local, but universal). Throughout this read they challenge their reader to consider various scriptural principles to building up the local body, breeding interaction between all members for their good and for the glory of God. They tackle things that get in the way of church fellowship such as:

* Demographics

* Marital status

* Shared Vision

* Like-mindedness vs. that One Person We All Know . . . 

* Discontentment

These subjects and more are handled with a firm hand, the authors taking pains to plainly cite what can cause divisions in the church and what pastors and lay people alike can do to foster true community. 

And what IS true community and Christian fellowship? What drives and motivates our choices and decisions as an individual body of believers? What would compel a non-believer to pay attention to a church body - any church body - and to want to belong to what they see? Essentially there is a laying down of one's life and preferences for the good of another, being willing to learn the scriptures and teach them diligently and faithfully with and to one another. The desire of this sort of fellowship ignores the world's boundaries and focuses instead on our commonalities within the faith. With Christ and the cross as our focus, the differences between us disappear and we begin to see each other with spiritual eyes. We love as Christ and forget ourselves. 

I think this quote from the book sums it up as best as possible:

"A church composed of natural friends says little about the power of the gospel. Yet the gospel-revealing community of natural enemies will require sacrifices in every aspect of our life together. Not surprisingly, when Paul in Romans 12:1 speaks those famed words, "present your bodies as a living sacrifice," his attention immediately moves in verse 4 to congregational life. It is very possible to enjoy the idea of attending a diverse church, and yet never lift a finger to love someone who's quite different from you." (p. 81)

They make the point that you can form a club of very likeminded people who all like cars, chess, or even books and their love of that item is what is going to draw them together. There is nothing supernatural in the way two people can relate over a shared love of books (let's go with books) because it's easy for one reader to like another person who themselves likes to read. That comes naturally. What doesn't come naturally is when you blend rich and poor, black and white, male and female, British and American, book reader and illiterate, single and married, into a single group of people who are willing to lay their lives down for one another. What picture comes to mind when you think of a group of people who combine all of the aforementioned "labels" and who come together for the express purpose of  worshipping God in song, teaching and encouraging each other with the scriptures, and who pray boldly for one another? You think of something almost otherworldly, don't you? A supernatural gathering of people who do not look alike, act alike, or even think alike on the surface whose one and only commonality is Jesus Christ? You would pay attention to them, wouldn't you? Would you not wonder how they do it? You might find yourself compelled to lean in with questions and a desire to learn what the Lord is working in and through their gathering.

I could say a lot about The Compelling Community but, in summary, I'll just repeat that I think that at this time in history, when everyone is encouraged to own and love their own label, it's important to read this book. It is a straight forward message that reminds us that our focus as believers to be on God and God alone. Our excitement in gathering shouldn't be to get together on Sunday morning with our best and closest friends. It isn't about that at all! We are gathering not with the intent to change things socially but to fellowship and worship with a shared passion for Christ. That's it. When we look at Him we see what we are not and we also get to catch a glimpse at what we will be. There is excitement in learning to love those who you wouldn't naturally fall into place when when you purpose to love one another as God Himself as loved you. 

I definitely walked away from this book encouraged and refreshed. I feel refocused and renewed. I understand my mission and I'm committed to it by first being committed to Jesus and declaring my need to be obedient to Him. This review barely scratches the surface of the book and/or my reasons for thinking it should be moved to the forefront of discussion between believers in Christ. Sure, we hit a rough patch this past year and lost a few. But the church is by no means destroyed. Are you still in? Then we've work to do.

• Statement of Faith

Get Christian Book Reviews for Amazon

Offering thoughtful reviews by like-minded book reviewers.

A Membership Community giving Christian Authors visibility & credibility on Amazon by providing unbiased reviews by other Christian book reviewers.

What is this site?

This is a membership site with a monthly fee for access to high quality Christian books by Christian authors desiring Amazon book reviews.

Who is this good for?

This community is great for indie or traditional authors needing authentic, thoughful reviews by Chrsitian book reviewers.

• This membership community gives you the opportunity to discover and read uplifting Christian books by like-minded Christian authors desiring reviews. All books are published into a central library, separated by category. Use our free trial to publish your book today and find other authors who are interested in reviewing your book.
• As an author, you can submit as many books as you like to the reader’s club for one set monthly or yearly membership fee.
• You are NOT paying for NOR “swapping” book reviews. Your membership fee gives you access to a reading club with a vast, everchanging selection of books. Our algorithm ensures that authors do not directly review eachother's books. In other words, once an author reviews your book you'll no longer be able to see their books in the library, so review swapping is not possible.

Post Your Book for Book Reviews Today

• Improve or increase the number of your book reviews on Amazon.
• Read great books and help other Christian authors with your positive feedback.
• You get more than enough BONUS tokens just for signing up to get your first book reviewed without having to earn any.

Already have an account? | Login Here

Get the number and quality of book reviews required for some promo sites so you can advertise with them.

Unite with Your Fellow Christian Authors and Start Receiving More Amazon Book Reviews Today!

The price tag for this opportunity and service should actually be "Priceless!"

How This Christian Book Review Site Works

Add Your Books

Take just a few minutes to add your book cover and info about your book.

Collect Tokens

Support other authors to receive tokens (credits) and get your book(s) reviewed.

Get Book Reviews

Use your tokens (provided by the membership) to get your books reviewed quickly. It's so easy!

Easy Cancellation

No commitment for monthly membership. Cancel anytime.

Unlimited Reviews

One low monthly payment for access to unlimited reviews.

Quick Turn-Around

Once a review is submitted for your book, see it on Amazon in 1-5 days.

Do you have a free trial?

Yes! Give us a chance to WOW you for 10 days. If you cancel, you will lose any credits you built up but get to keep any reviews you have received during that time. You can rejoin at any time without the free trial or bonus tokens for signing up.

What does it cost?

There is a membership fee: Check our payment options below on this page. You can pay monthly or annually for a large discount. You will not be charged until the free trial period is over.

How do you accept payment?

Our processor is PayPal or Stripe. Your card will not be charged until the 10 day trial period is over, then you will automatically be charged according to your plan until you go into PayPal to cancel your subscription or your subscriptions page in your account here for Stripe. Then you will no longer be charged.

How do I cancel my subscription?

Just go to PayPal and check not to renew – before that period ends and your subscription will not renew. If you paid with Stripe then you can cancel your subscription from your account page here on this website. If you should decide to cancel or change your subscription before your trial period is over or you can do so right from your login page. Once you cancel your subscription, you will have still have access to the site until the trial period or month you have paid for is completed and then there will be no more charges and no more access to the members area.

How do I access my dashboard?

Once you have signed up for one of our memberships, use your created login info to sign in and you will be taken directly to your dashboard where you can upload your book cover(s) and fill in the requested information. The more comprehensive info you give your readers, the more helpful for them, and probably the better the review you will receive as they will be more informed of your intentions and the content. If you will be offering a .pdf of your book, you will upload it there.

Can I be guaranteed 4 or 5 star review?

I would hope so, but no, we cannot guarantee how someone will rate your book. This site was created to be a tool for Christian authors to help one another with reviews, but we cannot control how someone is going to review your book. We ask that every reviewer be respectful, honest, and genuine in their feedback publicly in their reviews and also privately in the portal. If you are submitting a well-written, well-thought-out book, you should have no worries about the kind of feedback you will receive from this group of like-minded authors.

As a reviewer, we do ask that if you in good conscience cannot give a positive review, that you consider cancelling the review and moving on to another book. We do give you that option. You are not “locked in” when you choose a book to review. Remember, we are a community created to help one another.

How many reviews can I expect to get?

Sorry, no guarantees. This is simply a service wherein we provide the opportunity for you to make your book(s) visible to those who may like to read and review them. Your activity has a lot to do with how many reviews your get. By that I mean, you have to actively participate in the review process – reviewing other authors’ books yourself if you want to get reviews for your book(s). It is at the discretion of our author/reviewers which books they select to review. Nothing is manipulated or contrived, but it is up to you to keep your book(s) in the library so they are visible for potential readers. No books are advertised or featured. Everything is done organically. Your book needs to have a compelling cover and description to entice reviewers to check it out.

Where are my reviews posted? How does that work?

Each reader, after completing a book, will post it on their dashboard, then go directly to their order page on Amazon, select that book, and record their review. Once the review has been approved by Amazon it will be posted on the appropriate product listing page along with all the other reviews. We always validate that the reviews have been posted. This may take several days as Amazon’s approval is usually not automatic. Once we see that it has been posted, we will verify it on the author’s dashboard. If after 5 days, we have not been able to validate that the review has been posted, you will be notified to please resubmit or cancel the assignment if you have not been able to post the review.

How does it work?

You get credits (tokens) when you join (a bonus of 2000 just for joining). If you refer someone with a special link we provide so we can track it, you will get an additional 2000 tokens per referral and like you, they will receive a bonus of 2000 tokens just for signing up. They must sign up with a credit card for the referral tokens to be honored.

The number of tokens attributed to each book depends on a couple of elements: the length of a book, and purchase price if it is not free or offered as a Kindle Unlimited borrow. The minimum token attribution per book is 1100, so your bonus tokens for most authors, depending on the length and price of their book, should be more than enough to get your first review right away without having to review one first. From your dashboard, you control when you publish your book. Make sure you have enough tokens first. It’s up to you to keep reading and reviewing books to acquire enough tokens to keep your book visible in the library

The demo video above the FAQs explains how it all works.

How long does it take to get a review?

First of all, it depends on how quickly your book gets picked up for a review. Then, It depends on each author, but we set a deadline of 5 days to review a book once it has been checked out of the library, with an option to add one day of grace if needed. Most reviewers take less time than that. Of course longer books will take longer than shorter books to read and review. You can only check out a max of two books at a time and only 8 books/per week to give everyone a chance. No hording of books! Sometimes reviews submitted to Amazon appear right away. Other may take up to 5 days to post.

Will these be verified reviews?

That depends. If the reviewer has to purchase the Kindle version of your book, then the reviews will be verified. As an author, it will require more tokens to get your book reviewed if a purchase is involved and how many extra tokens depends on the actual cost. The reviewer will receive more tokens for purchasing a book and those can then be used to qualify their own book(s) to be reviewed.

In order for purchased books to register as a “verified” purchase review, the review must be posted from one’s order page and not on the product page. That way the review is linked to your orders and Amazon knows that you have purchased the book. I hope that makes sense.

If your book is enrolled in the Kindle Unlimited program, and you choose for your book to be downloaded as “Kindle Unlimited,” some readers think that the reviews will show as verified if they also are enrolled in KU. They do not register as verified, but (you) the author will get credit and a “payout” by Amazon for the pages read.

If your eBook is expensive, you can choose to have it downloaded as a .pdf. Also, if you are offering your download as KU, you might want to consider also offering a .pdf download for those who are not enrolled in KU to increase your readership. The token count is the same (for KU and .pdf) so you can choose both. In both cases, the review will require fewer tokens than if the book was purchased.

How do I get started?

Just select your subscription preference (monthly or yearly) and click the “FREE Trial” button. You will be walked through the process step by step. You will have your own dashboard where you can upload your book cover along with the info we request for each book to help readers in their selection and review process. There you also will be able to keep track of the books you have read, the reviews you have received, and your balance of credits as they accumulate and are used based on your activity.

Who has access to my information?

Other authors will have limited information – just as much as they need to access your books. When you leave a review, the author will see your review and rating. This is a private – membership-only group. No one outside the members’ area, will have access to any information within the members’ area and your profile or books will have no public listing that can be crawled, linked, or searched by Amazon, Google, or any other search engine. Your reviews are anonymous unless your Amazon handle is your actual first and last name. There is no interaction between members. A reviewer can leave private feedback about a book that they read in the private review area, but this is “one-way” communication through the site portal.

If I upload a .pdf of my manuscript, who has access to that?

Only those who have chosen to read your book will have access.

What if my books are spiritual in nature, but not necessarily Christian?

No problem, We have another site where all other genres are welcome: https://GetBooksReviewed.com

How is this different from review swapping?

TOTALLY different! Our algorithm is such that while authors review books by other authors, we do not review each other’s books. For example, if you reviewed one of my books, I will not even see any of your books in the library, So… there will be no chance I could see to select your books to review. That way no one could ever say you swapped book reviews with me. I hope that makes sense. There is no interaction between authors, and reviewers remain anonymous unless they choose to disclose their name along with the review. This removes any and all possible bias.

Can I get a refund if things don’t work out for me?

We offer 10 days for you to try the site out for free to see if it is a good fit for you. After that, if you have not cancelled, your subscription will renew each month (or year, if that is what you signed up for) until you decide to cancel. If you do not cancel before that particular time period is over and you are charged again, there are no refunds. It is up to you to cancel or ask support to cancel for you before your subscription is up for renewal.

Are any books not accepted on your site?

We do monitor every book that is submitted, and it must go through a review process mainly to be sure that what is being submitted is consistent with what is being offered on Amazon. If anything is offensive or highly controversial, it may be rejected as it might be difficult to get the kind of reviews you would want for those topics.

Also, there must be at least as much unique written content as you would find in a children’s story book. (Most children’s books are accepted BTW.) Therefore, most coloring books, puzzle books, journals, logs, activity books, things of that sort that we consider “low content” or with repetitive text on most pages may not be appropriate. If a story accompanies the images submitted, or if descriptions, explanations, a unique tip, quote, or affirmation are included per page, etc. it probably will pass the test because of the amount of unique content present.

If you are not sure if your book qualifies, feel free to contact support first to have it vetted.

Unlimited Amazon Book Reviews for All Your Books

Plan includes.

• Unlimited Reviews for Each Book
• No Charge or Fee for Book Reviews
• Individual Customer Support
• Cancel Anytime with One Click

A daily double credit allows you to promote one book for double the normal amount of tokens . When you use a Daily Double credit, it will double the token rewards for reviewers. Only the standard token value is deducted from your account each time the book is published and re-published in the library.

Promoting your book is as easy as 1-2-3:

• Purchase five Daily Double credits for $10 .
• List your book(s) as you normally do by using your tokens to publish the book to the library at the standard token value.
• Apply one daily double credit to any of your published books.

Now the reviewer will get double the standard token value!

Get your Daily Double credit today by ordering at least five credits below (get 15 credits and save $5) :

You have to post on your digital orders page in order for a posted review to show up as verified.

https://christianauthorsunite.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Christian-Authors-Unite.mp4

https://christianauthorsunite.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Christian-Book-Review-Club-Membership-Site.mp4

Refer a friend and get 2,000 tokens when they sign up!

Just send a friend your personalized referral link via email or a social media post and you will get 2,000 tokens automatically after they sign up.

• How can we help?

Advertisement

Supported by

The Plucky Irish Heroine of ‘Brooklyn’ Is Back — and in Crisis

Now a suburban married mother, Eilis Lacey finds herself in a quandary in “Long Island,” Colm Tóibín’s sequel to his much-admired novel.

• Share full article

By A.O. Scott

• Barnes and Noble
• Books-A-Million

When you purchase an independently reviewed book through our site, we earn an affiliate commission.

LONG ISLAND, by Colm Tóibín

In the early 1950s, Eilis Lacey, a fictional character, said goodbye to Enniscorthy, the real town in County Wexford, Ireland, where her creator, the novelist Colm Tóibín, would be born a few years later. She crossed the Atlantic, making her way to Brooklyn and into “ Brooklyn ,” Tóibín’s near-perfect 2009 novel about her emigration.

Eilis was often lonely, but she was hardly alone. In the 1950s, Ireland lost more than 15 percent of its population to emigration; 50,000 of those who left made their way to America. But Eilis wasn’t a statistic or a symbol: She was a soul — a witty, observant, sometimes anxious young woman finding her way and her place in the world. (Both her caution and her boldness were superbly captured by Saoirse Ronan in John Crowley’s film adaptation .)

Where would Eilis go from Brooklyn? The obvious answer, supplied in the title of Tóibín’s new novel, “Long Island,” was foreshadowed in the earlier book. On one of their dates, Tony Fiorello, a Bensonhurst plumber and Eilis’s eventual husband, tells her about his plan to start a construction business with his brothers out on the island, with a cluster of houses where the whole extended Fiorello family will live.

As “Long Island” gets underway, that plan has long since come to pass. It’s the mid-1970s, and Eilis has taken part in another large-scale demographic movement, the exodus from the cities to the suburbs. She lives with Tony and their two teenage children near a bevy of in-laws.

The voyage to America, encouraged by her older sister, Rose, and enabled by a helpful priest, wasn’t entirely Eilis’s idea. Neither was the relocation to Long Island — that was Tony’s dream. But Eilis is hardly passive. She is an interesting and vivid character because she manages to make her destiny her choice. She may be constrained, in Lindenhurst as in Enniscorthy, by social norms and family expectations, but in her own mind, and in the eyes of sympathetic readers, she is free.

In the opening pages of “Long Island,” fate deals her a wild card. Or rather, Tony does. A stranger shows up at Eilis’s door to inform her that his wife is pregnant and that Tony, who had done some repairs for the family, is the father.

“If anyone thinks I am keeping an Italian plumber’s brat in my house and have my own children believe that it came into the world as decently as they did, they can have another think,” he tells her. Because he is Irish, Eilis takes him at his word. And perhaps because she is Irish, she is equally adamant. “The baby will not pass the threshold,” she tells her mother-in-law, who clearly has something else in mind.

Tony’s transgression, and his family’s response to it, underscores Eilis’s alienation from the large Italian American family she has married into. With her marriage in limbo, she decides to return to Enniscorthy for the first time in more than 20 years. Her children, Larry and Rosella — who have had “no real interest in Enniscorthy, or even Ireland” — will join her for part of the summer.

Readers of “Brooklyn” will recall that Eilis’s previous trip home came in the wake of Rose’s death. If you’re just joining her, Tóibín offers a succinct recap of that visit:

That summer, in Enniscorthy, Eilis had a romance with Jim Farrell. No one … knew that she was, by that time, married to Tony. They had got married in Brooklyn. Eilis had wanted to tell her mother as soon as she arrived home, but it was too hard because it meant that, no matter what, she would have to go back to America. So she told no one, no one at all. And then, at summer’s end, she had abruptly left, just as Jim was making it clear that he wanted to marry her.

This loose end turns into the warp and woof of “Long Island.” Jim, who never married and never got over Eilis, manages a pub he inherited from his parents. He has been carrying on a discreet affair with Nancy, who had been Eilis’s best friend and who is now a widow running a chip shop in town. Jim and Nancy take pains to avoid the inquisitive eyes and judgmental tongues of their neighbors, but once Eilis shows up no secrets are safe.

Eilis herself, with her rented car and her Americanized attitudes, attracts envious, curious, suspicious scrutiny, including from her own mother. Meanwhile, her renewed connection with Jim and Nancy, coming on the heels of her marital crisis back home, sends her and the novel into a swirl of complicated feelings and difficult choices.

“Long Island” is both a sequel to “Brooklyn” and a companion to “ Nora Webster ,” Tóibín’s 2014 novel — his masterpiece, in my opinion — about another Enniscorthy woman’s struggle for autonomy. Eilis’s mother makes an appearance in that novel, which is set in the late 1960s and early ’70s. While events in the wider world are mentioned in all three books — the Troubles in Northern Ireland, the war in Vietnam — these are not historical novels in the usual sense. Tóibín’s interest is in the finer grain of individual perception.

He brings us close enough to Eilis, and to Nora, to see what and how they think, but not so close as to invade their privacy or compromise their dignity. In an autobiographical essay, Tóibín applied James Merrill’s description of Elizabeth Bishop to his own mother, who gave “a lifelong impersonation of an ordinary woman.” Nora and Eilis are drawn in similar terms, their ordinary experiences of migration, marriage and motherhood filtered through an intense and meticulously observed inner life. What holds the reader’s eye, in “Brooklyn” and “Nora Webster,” are not the external movements of a plot but the intimacy and accuracy of the portrait.

“Long Island” is a busier book than its predecessors, more exciting in some ways but in others less satisfying. There is more plot — more incidents and coincidences, more twists and revelations — and less Eilis. Her point of view alternates with Jim’s and Nancy’s, which heightens the drama but also feels like something of a betrayal. Like the busybodies of Enniscorthy, we are preoccupied with what Eilis will do next — no spoilers here — and less attentive to who she is. This exquisitely drawn, idiosyncratic soul turns out to be just another character in a novel after all.

LONG ISLAND | By Colm Tóibín | Scribner | 294 pp. | $28

A.O. Scott is a critic at large for The Times’s Book Review, writing about literature and ideas. He joined The Times in 2000 and was a film critic until early 2023. More about A.O. Scott

Explore More in Books

Want to know about the best books to read and the latest news start here..

The complicated, generous life  of Paul Auster, who died on April 30 , yielded a body of work of staggering scope and variety .

“Real Americans,” a new novel by Rachel Khong , follows three generations of Chinese Americans as they all fight for self-determination in their own way .

“The Chocolate War,” published 50 years ago, became one of the most challenged books in the United States. Its author, Robert Cormier, spent years fighting attempts to ban it .

Joan Didion’s distinctive prose and sharp eye were tuned to an outsider’s frequency, telling us about ourselves in essays that are almost reflexively skeptical. Here are her essential works .

Each week, top authors and critics join the Book Review’s podcast to talk about the latest news in the literary world. Listen here .