LeAnne Hardy

Crossovers by LeAnne Hardy explores gender bias in the characters of Ben Bradley and his sister Denise. Denise wants to go to hockey camp and Ben, a hockey player, really enjoys figure skating. The author also takes a sensitive look at the characteristics that define a young man while challenging stereotypical societal views. Self-acceptance as well as the acceptance of others is really the theme in this novel, and the characters eventually mature enough not to be afraid of what others think of them. Instead, through various experiences in the novel, they come to accept who they are and embrace their identities in Christ. I recommend this book for middle school teens, especially teen boys. They will relate to the struggles of the characters and recognize some of the prejudices that they face. The book is well-written, rings true to life, and opens the door for family discussion. The author includes a reading guide with thoughtful follow-up questions.

In accordance with FTC guidelines, please note that I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.… (mais)

Glastonbury Tor by LeAnne Hardy is a historical fiction novel that is phenomenal! It is well written; one of the best books I've reviewed this year! The characters are believable and the plot jumps off the page and grabs you - not letting go till the very end.

I love that history is brought to life in this story of a young man coming of age in turbulent times. The wisdom and faith built into this story just makes it so much richer.

I highly recommend this book for young adult readers and older!

Many thanks to LeAnne Hardy and Kregel Publications for the opportunity to review this book.… (mais)

I was fascinated by this book and its story. The author obviously did a great deal of research on the history of Glastonbury as well as the period of Henry VIII and his persecution of the church. Colin Hay, the protagonist of this story, grows from a young impetuous and angry young man into a true man of God. Besides being an awesome coming-of-age story and superb historical fiction, it is, at its heart a story of forgiveness. Colin and others must forgive those who persecute them in order to be obedient to God and also in order to receive forgiveness themselves. Little Wil reminds them all of this one simple biblical fact. Also important to the story is the conflict of doctrines between what Colin learns in the Catholic monastery and what he witnesses being practiced by the Thatcher family. The conflict between practicing religion and seeking a personal relationship with God is explored throughout the book. The author also delves into local tradition and folklore by having Colin fight evil in the form of Gwyn ap Nudd of the Celtic underworld. She includes King Arthur and the Holy Grail as well as the story of Joseph of Arimathea. Glastonbury Tor is very well-written book that takes the reader on a trip to Glastonbury, England during a turbulent time in history. Sometimes the book gets a bit preachy, but overall I highly recommend it. (Review copy provided by Kregel Publications)… (mais)