My sister recommended Theo of Golden by Allen Levi. It was the right book at the right time. It reminded me of Jan Karon's Mitford series. Kind people doing kind things. With books that model choosing a brighter path, it's hard not to be too sentimental or unrealistically cheery. Levi skirts those dangers and delivers a lovely tale of how one person can make a difference, while at the same time building mystery and suspense of who Theo is and why he chose to live in Golden. Also, the novel is populated with realistic characters with complex problems. Theo comes to the southern town of Golden and starts to change people's lives with his generosity and insight. I was surprised by the ending. It gave the plot gravitas.
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The latest in the series, Dungeon Crawler Carl, dropped, and I started listening to my preordered audiobook right away. The series is read by Jeff Hayes, and he does an amazing job not only with his voice choices but also with his range of characters. A Parade of Horribles by Matt Dinniman has become a juggernaut. This book has already climbed high on several bestseller lists. Dinniman continues to deliver twisty, suspenseful, somewhat gross action. Carl and his ex-girlfriend's now sentient cat, Princess Donut, are fighting their way through each floor of the Dungeon Crawler: Earth for the entertainment of the greater universe, narrowly defeating bosses, mobs, and enemies within and without. A crew of fellow survivors and staunch friends pulls together to keep themselves and each other alive, but being modern gladiators takes a toll on our heroes, mentally and emotionally. Impossible situations mean impossible choices. Dinniman portrays the struggles well, and that is why I like the characters so much. The goofy setup feels real.
On the downside, the previous book had an epic battle for dominance of the floor, and this one had more of a Mario Kart vibe. It didn't feel as weighty. It did move the action along and continued to develop the characters.
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I'm not sure how I came across Jesus Through the Eyes of Women: How the First Female Disciples Help Us Know and Love the Lord by Rebecca McLaughlin, but I appreciate her scholarship (She has a PhD from Cambridge University) and writing. I found her insight and analysis accessible and solid. Occasionally, someone — usually on the internet — will talk about how important men are in God's Kingdom. I recently attended a Theological Conference where all the speakers were men, and almost all the books being sold were by men. I needed this book to remind me how much Jesus loves and values women. McLaughlin demonstrated to me how crucial the testimony of women is to the writing of the Gospels. Jesus spoke to Martha plainly, saying, "I am the Resurrection and the Life." I recommend this book to everyone who wonders about or dismisses women in the Bible. It is encouraging and educational.
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