Playing by Heart

This review is from my sister MaKenzie who read this book for me, as I was quickly coming up on deadline:-)

MY GENERAL THOUGHTS: The way Playing by Heart is written was new and refreshing, as it was written in first person from both main characters. The characters were greatly made, well described, and realistic, I very much enjoyed reading about them. The plot was well written, though fairly predictable there were a few surprises that I enjoyed reading. Before I began reading this book, Rayleigh told me that in a survey type thing hosted by Bethany House, in which you answer questions to see which character you are from a certain selection of books, that she had been Lula from this book. As I read this book, I saw this to be very much true and enjoyed reading it all the more.

QUESTIONABLE CONTENT: There is not that much questionable content, however there is some kissing and mention of a character who gets beaten at home. The beating is not actually described, just mentioned. This book is also a slower read, as there is no major catastrophe.

RATING AND RECOMMENDATION: I give Playing by Heart 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to anyone who enjoys Historical Romance!

“I received this book from the publisher for the purpose of this review. All comments and opinions are my own.”

You can read this review, as well as others, at http://acceleratethejesusmovement.wordpress.com

Can I give this ten stars?
This book was like a breath of fresh air...new scenery, new time period, new subject. For once the man tries unsuccessfully to get the attention of the woman who really doesn't care if she ends up a spinster or not. Actually, that's her plan, until life–in the form of the sudden death of her brother-in-law–interferes.
Lulu intends to do her father proud and become the first woman from Oklahoma to obtain a doctorate. After her sister's husband dies suddenly, though, she answers her sister's plea and goes to live with her in the town she grew up, where she was known as Fruity Lu because of her flighty, fun loving ways before her mother's death broke her heart and ignited her ambition. Her siblings see it as natural for her to help out, not conceiving of the bravery it will take for her to prove herself in the small town. And, added to that, her sister's finances require her to get a job; the only one available is one teaching at the local high school. Music is bad enough, but–girls' basketball??
The family aspect is huge in this story. The depth of the Christian lesson is also wonderful. What's a girl to do when it looks like she must give up her greatest hopes and dreams and future?
Loved it!