Member Reviews

I really enjoyed this book. It was a sweet Christmas book and I enjoyed the Bible verses throughout the book. I would definitely recommend this book.

Was this review helpful?

So cute. Absolutely loved this book, there were so many cute stories that held the charm from beginning to end. I would suggest this book to anyone looking for a cute Christmas time read.

Was this review helpful?

This book is a parable. But within the book, each chapter is almost a parable of it own.

The story takes place in a very real, small town just North of New York City, Briarcliff Manor NY. The town is the former home of The King’s College and features Dr. Robert Cook, its former President, as a minor character. The Fath-Based story features Charlie Riverton, a middle school student, who is used by God to transform his community and the people who reside there. Each chapter seems to focus on a theme that is important to the Christian life - grace, fellowship, forgiveness, love, etc. Yet, as a whole, the book shows how God can use one young man to touch the lives of so many.

Tears came to my eyes as I saw God touching the lives of Mr. Smythe, Parker Jones, Mr. Olson, and others. I was reminded over and over of how God touched my own life during some very broken times. The story and the memories require that I give the book five-stars.
______________
This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are mine alone.

Was this review helpful?

What a wonderful, "feel good story" and at Christmas time!!! Set in the small village of Briarcliff Manor, close to New York, in the early 1970s, his book warms your heart and convinces you of the inherent kindness of people.
Charlie is in the sixth grade, but he has a sensitive heart toward those who are hurting, especially the newly widowed Mr. Olsen and Viet Nam Vet, Parker. There are so many great lessons to learn from in this book. I wish there were MORE books like this one!!
A gift most rare....how TRUE~
I recommend this book and give it 5 stars!!

Was this review helpful?

This is a book for all ages. It is a beautifully written story that hooks you on the first page and doesn't let go. The author brings the book to life with his words and you feel like you are there. It's a heartwarming uplifting story that will stay with you long after you read the last page. I loved this book and highly recommend it. I received a complimentary copy from Darcie Rowan PR, Christian Faith Publishing via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own. 5 stars all the way!!

Was this review helpful?

I’m sure this book is lovely, but the first chapter did not catch my interest. There was a lot of description type writing and not enough plot to draw me in.
The town seems lovely, but boring and not enough going on with the characters to keep me reading.

Was this review helpful?

This book seemed like something I would enjoy, small town and Christmas time. I really struggled getting into it. I did not get too far in before giving up. The style of writing through me off I think. Too much description and seemed like a point of mentioning TV shows and news of the seventies, that didn't feel a natural part of the storyline to me. Perhaps I didn't read enough, as never really found a storyline. Thanks Netgalley for the arc.

Was this review helpful?

This is the most feel-good story of all feel-good stories. Charlie is in the sixth grade, but he has a sensitive heart toward those who are hurting, especially the newly widowed Mr. Olsen and Viet Nam Vet, Parker. When Skylar moves into town to work with Henry in the parks department, he recognizes Charlie's thoughtfulness and encourages Charlie in his endeavors. Charlie is a typical sixth grade boy in all other aspects, with a group of friends who are all sports-minded like he is. One of the boys in his group of friends is a bit of a loose cannon who is willing to step in and take credit for things he didn't do; at the same time, he races head-long into trouble while taunting the rest of the group to entice them into his trouble. Skylar watches all of these shenanigans with a close eye.

What the reader gets to understand is that Skylar is not exactly who he presents himself to be. He is an angel in disguise, working inside and outside the hearts that are receptive to his help.

There are characters the readers will absolutely love, a few they will absolutely dislike strongly, and a few that the readers will change their minds about. Tom Leihbacher is a gifted author who has a great grasp of the work angels do in our world. A Gift Most Rare is an easy read that is compelling and entertaining. Four Strong Stars. I will be looking forward to reading more books by Tom.

Christian Faith Publishing, Inc. and NetGalley.com provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

Was this review helpful?