26 of 26 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Interesting story, May 13, 2009
This review is from: Breathe: A Novel of Colorado (Homeward Trilogy) (Paperback)
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Odessa's story is satisfying and uplifting. I am not a Christian myself, but I know what it is like to lose people you love and to recover from illness. It is satisfying to read about a person pulling her life back together after things have gone so terribly wrong.
The characters are good. I especially liked Reid the sheriff. His internal dialog makes sense in a twisted, narcissistic way.
The romance was very clean. This is a book you can let your daughter read.
So I guess it is a pretty good book!
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20 of 20 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Breathe, June 4, 2009
This review is from: Breathe: A Novel of Colorado (Homeward Trilogy) (Paperback)
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Fans of Lisa Tawn Bergren's other books will enjoy the fast paced action in this first of a new trilogy set in 1883 Colorado Springs. Like her earlier books, every page has the characters in constant action. The plot is out of the ordinary, primarily set in a sanatorium for consumptives (tuberculosis patients) rather than the typical "nice girl meets nice boy in normal life" scenario.
The title 'Breathe' has a double meaning: The main character must regain her health and learn to breathe freely again physically. Secondarily, the main character and her brother and sister must take a chance to break out of the expectations of family and society and learn to breathe free, to follow the goals of their own hearts.
The three face multiple challenges, one fighting a deadly disease, another fighting unwanted romantic attention, and the third literally fighting in a boxing ring, all against the backdrop of a newly settled western frontier. Somehow Lisa Bergren manages to weave all of these plots and subplots into a believable and entertaining story. From the first scenes of the book to suspicious murders to silver mine claims to mountain chase scenes to the suspenseful ending, this book has an energy that keeps the pages turning.
The author never uses any crude language and everyone keeps their clothes on. And while the dangers that are faced elicit prayers for safety and strength and faith, the book doesn't lapse into preaching. The setting is different and interesting and well researched by the author, who herself lives in Colorado Springs. If you are looking for a good clean mystery with a touch of romance, I highly recommend this book.
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15 of 16 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Finding Courage to Breathe, June 6, 2009
This review is from: Breathe: A Novel of Colorado (Homeward Trilogy) (Paperback)
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I do not normally read Christian fiction but had heard that this was going to be a great book. I handed it off to my mother who was interested in an ARC and curious about what a non preachy Christian novel would entail. These are her words, and I have to say I find myself wanting to read about Odessa.
~
When I was offered the opportunity to read a "Christian" book, I must admit that I was simply okay with it - not thrilled, but not dreading it either. I simply was under the misconception that Christian books might be stereotypical, preachy and perhaps a tad bit boring. Wow, was I ever mistaken. "Breathe" by Lisa T. Bergren is simply a great novel - Christian Reading or otherwise.
Bergren brings life and depth to each of her characters. The three lead characters, Odessa, Dominic and Moria who are all siblings, each could be someone we know, but they have many qualities that make them even more fascinating. I found myself totally relating to Dominic and understood his struggle each time he tried to reign in his temper, his desire to release his tension by street fighting, and even felt the satisfying burn each time he threw down a shot of whiskey. There was no condemnation, just sheer understanding.
Bergren also brings Odessa's struggle with consumption to life in ways we can comprehend. You don't feel sorry for Odessa, you just keep pushing on with her, always encouraged with each step toward progress. Dialogue is always smooth and smart, and you learn so much about her inner strength and fascinating character.
And Moira, dear Moira, cannot every woman relate to her in some way?. You find yourself cheering her on but also cringing in concern and even fear that she may be out of her league with some of these "wild west" settlers.
Bottom line, it's a page-turner! I couldn't put it down. The underlying mystery keeps you on edge. You are compelled to find out who is behind everything and who else will die. All the while you enjoy the strengths of the lead characters as they come to life in such true form. Best of all, it looks like there will be two sequels. I look forward to reading them as soon as they are released!
Note: I was ready to forgive the author for what I assumed was a stereotypical "surprise" that Bryce was painting for a picture. I am relieved to say I was wrong. It just made his character even better than the wonderful person I fell in love with.
4 1/2 stars!
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