Sharon HinckCritiques

Beautifully written story of the reimagining tale of Joseph. It had a little bit of a Lord of the Rings vibe in its setting, with an interesting and creative cast of characters. It was a very insightful, and gripping novel with characters to root for, and ones you felt their heartache and pain of their situation.

I loved the creative way this author retold the biblical story with a female point of view. I enjoyed this author’s world building and how her characters jump off the page and into your heart in a very real way. Furthermore, I never realized all the changes Joseph and the kingdom would have to undergo to start preparing for the disaster ahead. It was extensive.

I like what the author says in her notes, “…I pray that the core theme from Dream of Kings – that our loving Provider is often working out a greater plan than we can see in the midst of trials – will help us all to depend more fully on our Shepherd and trust His purpose.”

Amen! Amen! This theme is spread throughout the story. There is a glossary in the back of the book. This is a fascinating and insightful read, and one that would work well for your next book club pick.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book by the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

"Faithfulness and loyalty are the true powers. They strengthen the individual and the whole community."

It's another winner from Sharon Hinck. Jolan's journey is inspired by Joseph's journey in the book of Genesis, so it's somewhat of a reimagining of Joseph's tale. Filled with betrayal, loss, grief, and faith, this book of hope and purpose, set in a realistic fantasy world, will engage your heart, mind, and spirit. You won't be able to put it down once you start!

Jolan's first person voice is refreshing, honest, and delightful. Though it's told only in first person, we get to know other characters pretty well throughout the story. I really enjoyed getting to know King Siverlon and Kamor. Kamor's steadfast loyal heart won me over from the beginning; his relationship with Jolan was a beautiful thing to witness as enemies became friends to something more. The theme of being faithful where planted showed clearly through Kamor's life and was an excellent reminder to choose contentment, faithful service, and complete dependence on the One who is everything.

It doesn't look like this book is a part of a series but I'd love to have a follow up book (or two) about the fate of the four kingdoms in the story. I received the book from the publisher via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

As I began reading “Dream of Kings”, I quickly found myself caught up in the story. Sharon Hinck masterfully weaves together this work of Christian fantasy that captured my imagination. Jolan the Dream Teller serves everyone regardless of whether they are a peasant or a high lord. When she discovers her country is in danger, she finds herself sold into slavery in a far away land. All she wants to do is return to her land and warn them of the impending danger.

I found the writing in this book amazing, and loved the imagery and writing style of this book. Even if you are not a fan of Christian fantasy, I believe this book will draw you in to the story. If you enjoy Christian fantasy, you definitely need to check out this book for yourself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

With gifted authors like Sharon I am becoming a fan of fantasy. I like the way she brings new worlds to life and surrounds us with vivid images. I immediately liked our main character Jolan. Having a gift of telling others what they dreamed and the meaning behind it, she is sought by powerful people. She uses her gift to warn and also give hope but someone wants to use her for their own selfish gain. Will she survive being kidnapped?

Jolan is in a dire predicament when she is unable to completely tell what she sees and this puts her in danger. Something is holding her back from seeing everything but what is it? Being accused of pitting the Duchess against her husband stirs up a threat to Jolan. The author definitely had my attention as the drama takes shape in the form of revenge. The action really starts when Jolan finds herself befriending the king. As news of a plot to poison the King is averted Jolan knows that more chaos will happen. Someone wants the king out of power and Jolan is in the middle trying to interpret dreams to keep the King and herself from harm. If only she could find a way back to her home, she would finally be safe.

Throughout the story we see mention of the Provider. I liked how it reminds me of God and how He wants to protect His people like Provider does. We see Jolan many times asking for help from the Provider. We do the same when we pray and ask guidance from God. I couldn’t wait to see if Jolan would be able to help her people and keep the King from harm. Danger follows around every corner and it is hard to figure out who to trust at times.

The adventure in the story takes us to a place where deceit is close and Jolan risks everything to expose who is responsible for trying to start a war and take over. I can’t overlook the fact that trusting was a big part of this story. We all find ourselves at times trying to trust someone. Jolan relied on the Provider to direct her path and show her who to trust. I liked how the story directs us to be faithful and let God show us the direction to follow in our lives.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

Sale alert! The gorgeous hardcover copy of Forsaken Island is on sale on Amazon right now for only $13.16!!! I've heard lots of good stuff about this series but I only own book 2 rn.

https://www.amazon.com/Forsaken-Island-Book-Dancing-Realms/dp/1621841359/ref=sr_... hinck&qid=1636745316&qsid=139-6202773-1603945&s=books&sr=1-2&sres=1621841154,B088P8CFVW,B08T54MQDD,1935929356,B082FQH5LV,1621840492,1935929771,B07P3RVJYV,B00B85AMRW,0764201301,B01KJ7KC3S,0764201298,B01F9QF76G,1428117644,B0156Y333U,B00XVI5LFM

Sharon Hinck has once again woven a beautiful fantasy tale that immediately captures the reader into the world of Jolan. We see Jolan face betrayal and heartache as she is taken away from the only home she has known. In the midst of her personal crisis, we see her step up as an advocate for the downtrodden and use her gift of dreamtelling to help others. The twists and turns that Jolan faces keeps the reader turning page after page and chapter after chapter. By far, this is my favorite stand-alone novel by Ms. Hinck. Although, after reading this one, you will most definitely want to read her two other fantasy series: The Restorer series and The Dancing Realm trilogy.

This third installment of The Dancing Realm series lived up to my expectations. Carya and Brantley must work together to protect their land and the people of their land.

Overcoming hurts from the past, they work on moving into the future. This Christian fantasy novel series captured my attention from the beginning until the very last page of this final book. I found myself caught up in the lives of these characters. The author did an excellent job of creating characters that drew me into the story.

So if you enjoy Christian fantasy, check out this book for yourself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but it in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

Let me start by saying how descriptive the author is while writing this story. It is easy to visualize Carya and Brantley as they sweep across the pages. There is much depth to the story as I followed them to reach their mission. The Maker is very significant and Carya understood the lessons she was being taught. She likes to do things without thinking the plan through, but in this story she learns to listen and follow His guidance. I thought it was very intriguing to hear Carya say, “my only Lord is the Maker.” The Bible is very specific that there is only one God we should worship. Carya showed me how fierce she is by standing up to those who had kidnapped her.

Mixed with fantasy and truth is a story that stirs within us justice and freedom. The world is in chaos and an enemy that has not been heard from in awhile wants to take what is not theirs. It is a battle of epic proportions and danger lurking nearby. I liked the lessons about learning to trust, forgiveness and unconditional love. For me the best part was reading how much deeper a relationship Carya developed with the Maker.

Those looking for adventure in a fantasy world filled with dancers, sea creatures and danger will enjoy this story. The author has given us a great series and I’m sorry to see it end. I would recommend reading the first two books in the series as they introduce you to a world like no other.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

Forgotten, forgetting, forsaking.

With characteristic prowess, Sharon Hinck brings readers another intriguing fantasy with “Forsaken Island”, book two of The Dancing Realms series. Carya and Brantley’s story continues where “Hidden Current” left off, a sighting of another island in the previously-considered uninhabited ocean sparking hope for finding supplies to replace Meriel’s dwindling reserves. The duo arrives to a seemingly-impenetrable wall of tree branches, and once they enter this strange new world, everything becomes increasingly off-kilter. Paradise becomes a nightmare as the island’s secrets are revealed and the truth behind the façade of the inhabitants’ happiness comes to light. All is not as it appears…

Faced with the threat of the island’s core and the possibility of never being able to navigate back to Meriel, Carya and Brantley work to liberate the islanders from the prison they’ve created for themselves. Their fight becomes a parallel to humanity’s ongoing battle against sinfulness, and Carya learns to trust the Maker more while contending against her own wounds. Including the internal battle of allowing herself to love someone after being indoctrinated for years regarding her life as one set apart from society. “Forsaken Island” may fall into the fantasy genre, but it contains many truths for the soul. Surrender to the One who made the heavens and the earth and who watches over and guards those who are His is the only way to true freedom and joy.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

I am happy to be back in an adventure with this author. Her descriptive words help me visualize everything going on in the story. There is much to discover in this journey as the series continues. I love how the author takes us into a fantasy world while using God’s lessons to teach us and remind us of His love. Right at the start of the book we are reminded “not to give fear a place to bloom.” Well that must have been written just for me. Our characters are going into a place they are unfamiliar with but must not let fear stop them. How many times have you allowed fear to take over your life?
I like how once again we find ourselves among the characters as they race to seek food for their people. The place they came to was eerily creepy. Why was everyone overly nice. Is it a trick so Carya and Brantley will be caught off guard? I felt a bit of The Wizard of Oz in a part when someone says, “say that ten more times and see if it changes anything.” Visions of Dorothy being told to say , “There’s no place like home ,”several times danced in my head. Carya and Brantley are desperate to find their way out of this strange place.
I loved how the author uses these characters to teach us about trust and working together. Sharing their belief is strong in this story and I really didn’t want the story to end. I had jumped into the pages and was next to them as they discovered strange things on the island. Their mission to bring food back to their people becomes difficult when they can’t find their way out. I wonder if it would have helped if I tried to guide them? The story is full of excitement and surprises. Once again I’m in awe of an author who can brilliantly take readers to another place and make them feel like they are part of the story.
I received a copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

The first in The Dancing Realm series, I have to say I really enjoyed this book. Calara is training to become a dancer to help control her world. However, days before her final test, she begins to see that things are not exactly as she thought they would be. She is called on to teach a class of the youngest dancers in the Order, and she sees between her experience while teaching along with her final test. She passes the test and is invited to join the Order as a dancer. It should be everything she wants, but she sees that everything is not what she expected it to be.

When one of the student’s uncles comes to rescue his niece, Calara escapes with them From there the danger and adventure picks up as soldiers come after her. Calara encounters the true Maker and sets out to reveal the truth about their world to her people. So if you like a book with adventure, danger, and quests. Check out this book for yourself.

I received a copy of this book for my fair and honest review.

Will she seek a new dance pattern from her Creator?

Fantasy has never been my genre of choice but over the years I've started to step out of Narnia and Middle Earth, discovering new worlds and some pretty good quality fiction. Hidden Current was one such peregrination. I was first attracted to the book by the pretty cover, and then, when I read the blurb it sounded different than any other fantasy novel I've read. Though, Sharon Hinck is a new-to-me-author I didn't let that stand in my way, as all good voracious readers do not, and I went ahead and dived in.

I was actually quite pleased with Hidden Current. It captured both my attention and imagination quite completely. Despite the nearly 300 pages I finished the book in a day, I started in the late morning and finished that evening. I was just so curious about where Sharon Hinck would take her characters, not to mention readers, that I couldn't put it down.

There are few miscellaneous things that I'd like to mention about the book. One is that it is very much Christian fantasy, there are many Biblical parallels and truths but it still retains that true fantasy vibe. The second is that the story is told from a first person perspective, and it was done very very well. The third is that the author's own dance experience shines through on every page lending a vivid authenticity that helps the reader to become thoroughly immersed in the story. Another thing is that, while the book obviously has a YA bent, it can be enjoyed by any age. And the last thing is that I thought the romance element was well played, it's there but does not hijack the story away from the more important themes.

Can you tell yet that I really enjoyed Hidden Current? Though the year is still young it was one of my favorites so far. Sharon Hinck may be a new-to-me-author but it will not stay that way all. The hardest thing now is going to be having to wait for the next book in The Dancing Realms series...

(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

Part dystopian, part fantasy, and wholeheartedly mesmerizing, Sharon Hinck’s “Hidden Current” begins The Dancing Realms series. The story unfolds with a steady rhythm that aligns with the pacing of the plot, an intricate dance that subtly yet powerfully carries the reader along. On a quest for truth and restoration after the shocking revelation that the Order is constructed on lies, Calara joins Brantley of Windswell and they set off. As she searches for her birth family away from the detainments of home, Calara goes up against the inevitable backlash, all to find that the stabilizing force they need has been present all along, waiting for them. This is a fine parallel of Christian life. Whereas ordinarily gifts and unexpected surprises come from friends and family, the Christian throws wide the floodgates to blessing when accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior.

Told in the first-person from Calara’s perspective, “Hidden Current” is rich in narrative and plot. Because of this direct connection to the story from the heroine, the reader is able to experience the tale as if participating in it. Calara observes that “When fear or doubt arouse, there was always the pattern. The pattern comforted. The pattern never changed.” This reflection leads ultimately to the Creator Himself, the only one who keeps the world spinning and who watches over us in every way, every day.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.

I love this book! It is so amazing. The story is so unique and original, unlike anything I have ever read. What I love about these books, is the way she portrays the importance and power of Scripture. That is just *so* cool to me. Definitely definitely check these out! You won't regret it!

Sharon Hinck nails it once again. I really enjoyed hearing the story from Jake's perspective; Hinck does a great job writing for a teenage boy. It felt very realistic.

After reading 8 book by this author, I have determined that Sharon Hinck has an incredible gift for writing clean, inspiring fiction. I greatly enjoyed this entire series, and this book was the perfect way to wrap up the entire series. Incredibly well written. Beautifully inspiring. Action packed. Heartwarming, and a tear jerker, this book is amazing! I heartily recommend this book!

CONTENT NOTE: There is some violence, but not portrayed graphically at all. There is also a small thread of romance. Recommended to 14 for violence.

Wow! This book! I loved it. One main thing that stood out to me was its originality. It was unlike anything else I have ever read! The fantasysci-fi genre is so chock-full, often times it seems like I am reading the same book over and over, just with a slightly different premise. Not so with this one. The fantastical world, its people, weapons, buildings, life styles etc. were so unique.

I also liked its "cleaness". There was no annoying, impure guygirl relationships, what violence there was was not graphically described, and there was no language. Although, even with its "cleaness", I wouldn't recommend this book for young teens or children, just because of some "thematic material".

I also liked how the main character was married. This sounds weird, I know, but bear with me. Oftentimes, it ends up being girl meets guy, they work together to solve the problem, end up falling in love along the way, boom, get married. I am not a fan of overly romantic stories, so I appreciated Mark and Susan's wholesome marriage. I loved how they knew each other so well, and the way they worked together to solve the problems. They reminded me a lot of my parents.

I loved the character of Kieren! He is such a grizzly, apparently heartless bear on the outside, yet you know he has a heart. I loved his love and care for his sister (I am blanking on her name), even though he didn't know how to show it. I also loved his and Tristan's relationship.

Overall, great book! I really enjoyed it! I just can't wait to get to the library to get book 2!

This review is a bit hard to write after my last review, in which said Sharon Hinck can write no wrong. :P

This book was a little disappointing. It felt forced, and didn't seem to have the same 'heart' behind it. The conflictresolution was basically the same as the first book, just varied slightly with different issues. It was still very good, just not as good as all the rest of Hinck's books. It pains me to give a book by this fabulous author any less than 5 stars.

That being said, I still enjoyed this immensely!! I loved hearing more about Becky and her sweet family and friends. I love the storyline with Lori, although I feel that it wasn't wrapped up as well as it could have been. The storyline with Judy as well. I loved the end climax! It was perfect! I loved all the medical details and such. ;)

Overall, disappointing, but still very good!

THIS WAS AMAZING OKAY!?!?!? Go read it RIGHT NOW!!!

Wow! This book was awesome! Such a sweet, if heartbreaking at times, story! It was very eye-opening about PTSD, and Sharon Hinck handled it in a very touching and sensitive way. The Christian themes portrayed throughout were spot-on, and very encouraging, even to someone who has never experienced what Penny Sullivan was going through. The characters were AMAZING! Bryan was ADORABLE, and Hinck did a great job portraying a 7 year old boy. Having a little brother close in age to Bryan, he felt very realistic. I also loved Alex. His compassion was touching and inspiring. Just such an amazing book! But beware, have your tissue box handy! I can't tell you how many times I tried to hold back the tears. (Note the key-word, "tried".)

CONTENT NOTE: Recommended for mature readers (14 ) for violence.

While I applaud any Christian author's attempt to tackle mental illness and its treatment, I think we can do better.

Kind of slow to get into, but fairly decent once it gets going... Not so sure I'd read it again though (thats why it only got a 3) - I'm thinking the second one must be even better, because I trust my friend who recommended it's recommendations.

Most of us will never experience post-traumatic stress syndrome, for which I am profoundly grateful. If you've ever wondered just how that might feel, "Stepping into Sunlight" creates a space in which you can safely experience it in your imagination.

Many of us do struggle with depression. Some have clinical depression that can envelop a person for years. When the PTSD and depression collide in one life, it requires many prayers and desperate measures for Penny Sullivan to climb out of the pit.

This well written book pulls no punches when exploring the pain that can change our feelings of safety and well-being over night. It also gently offers hope and possibilities for recovery. This book is not for the faint of heart. It is worth finding the bravery to read.

Two absolute favorite quotes from this book: Chapter 27 "As far as dramatic entrances go, I thought it was very effective." and Chapter 33 "Warmth surged through me. He was right. The role of the Restorer wasn't all that different from the roles I had in my own world. In both worlds I felt discouraged by my weakness and very small against the needs and battles I faced. yet, even weak or small, I wasn't [b:on the road|6288|The Road|Cormac McCarthy|http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/21E8H3D1JSL._SL75_.jpg|3355573] alone." When I agreed to read The Restorer for review, I was fairly excited about it. I had seen the book in a bookstore and almost had purchased it then. The cover completely intrigued me with a woman in normal khaki and sweater attire while holding a medieval sword. Upon receiving the task to read and review The Restorer's Journey, the third book in the series I knew I had to read all three in order, especially since I had heard so many good things about the creativeness of author Sharon Hinck's mind. I'm new to read the sci-fi/fantasy/speculative fiction Christian world and I am loving it. There are so many things that I do not have a basis for imagery, but just giving myself a brief image I am fully learning to use the capabilities of my imagination again. The Restorer takes a normal, average woman and throws her into an alternate world and as I reader you think she might be dreaming or just plain crazy, but as each chapter and page reveals itself you stop caring about the reason why she is where she is and about what she will do next, and how she can survive. Hinck has performed an incredible task with her writing to really make the reader understand and feel what is going on in the life of our main character Susan. She doesn't just pick up a sword and become a super-hero, she goes through doubt and fear and through a realistic turn of events crazy and wonderful and terrifying things happen. This story gives a reader an escape from reality, everything that Susan needed at the time. But it does so in a fashion that brings you back stronger and more optimistic about what really needs to be accomplished in reality. (Confused yet? Don't be, because that is not what is important.) There are so many things in our lives that are overwhelming and we just sometimes want to run away inside ourselves. It is possible and we are capable of doing just that, but that will not solve anything and really make life harder on the people we care about around us. It is when we realize that we need God, the One, and use His strength that we can accomplish any and all things that we are meant to do. The Bible, the Verses, are a gift to man from God. He has given us this gift of power for strength. When we know various scriptures and verses that can help in various situations, we can avoid the doubt and depression that comes on and move forward in His love. This book fully encourages me to go and memorize scripture for all I'm worth. When I think about my life I can remember times when scripture has helped me, or I knew the right thing to say to a friend to help. But so many times I have gotten caught up in the world around me and let doubt and the lack of time take over. In a sense I was being "poisoned" and did not realize it. Part of me feels like if only we could live in a world that is framed around the Biblical scriptures and have everyone believe it would be so much easier, but at the same time. I realize that it wouldn't fix everything. There are still the random leader who seeks power for corruption and people can be fooled by man-altered documents. Prayer and time spent with the Lord and time thought over his verses of scripture personally is the only way to be as strong as you can be. Nobody else can do it for you. Wow, what an inspirational book. I never thought I'd be this impressed, but I am.

Two absolute favorite quotes from this book: Chapter 27 "As far as dramatic entrances go, I thought it was very effective." and Chapter 33 "Warmth surged through me. He was right. The role of the Restorer wasn't all that different from the roles I had in my own world. In both worlds I felt discouraged by my weakness and very small against the needs and battles I faced. yet, even weak or small, I wasn't [b:on the road|6288|The Road|Cormac McCarthy|http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/21E8H3D1JSL._SL75_.jpg|3355573] alone." When I agreed to read The Restorer for review, I was fairly excited about it. I had seen the book in a bookstore and almost had purchased it then. The cover completely intrigued me with a woman in normal khaki and sweater attire while holding a medieval sword. Upon receiving the task to read and review The Restorer's Journey, the third book in the series I knew I had to read all three in order, especially since I had heard so many good things about the creativeness of author Sharon Hinck's mind. I'm new to read the sci-fi/fantasy/speculative fiction Christian world and I am loving it. There are so many things that I do not have a basis for imagery, but just giving myself a brief image I am fully learning to use the capabilities of my imagination again. The Restorer takes a normal, average woman and throws her into an alternate world and as I reader you think she might be dreaming or just plain crazy, but as each chapter and page reveals itself you stop caring about the reason why she is where she is and about what she will do next, and how she can survive. Hinck has performed an incredible task with her writing to really make the reader understand and feel what is going on in the life of our main character Susan. She doesn't just pick up a sword and become a super-hero, she goes through doubt and fear and through a realistic turn of events crazy and wonderful and terrifying things happen. This story gives a reader an escape from reality, everything that Susan needed at the time. But it does so in a fashion that brings you back stronger and more optimistic about what really needs to be accomplished in reality. (Confused yet? Don't be, because that is not what is important.) There are so many things in our lives that are overwhelming and we just sometimes want to run away inside ourselves. It is possible and we are capable of doing just that, but that will not solve anything and really make life harder on the people we care about around us. It is when we realize that we need God, the One, and use His strength that we can accomplish any and all things that we are meant to do. The Bible, the Verses, are a gift to man from God. He has given us this gift of power for strength. When we know various scriptures and verses that can help in various situations, we can avoid the doubt and depression that comes on and move forward in His love. This book fully encourages me to go and memorize scripture for all I'm worth. When I think about my life I can remember times when scripture has helped me, or I knew the right thing to say to a friend to help. But so many times I have gotten caught up in the world around me and let doubt and the lack of time take over. In a sense I was being "poisoned" and did not realize it. Part of me feels like if only we could live in a world that is framed around the Biblical scriptures and have everyone believe it would be so much easier, but at the same time. I realize that it wouldn't fix everything. There are still the random leader who seeks power for corruption and people can be fooled by man-altered documents. Prayer and time spent with the Lord and time thought over his verses of scripture personally is the only way to be as strong as you can be. Nobody else can do it for you. Wow, what an inspirational book. I never thought I'd be this impressed, but I am.