Wow. WOW. WOWWW. I have almost no words to describe how powerful this story, told through poems, is. Read it in maybe 45 minutes because I couldn't put it down. If I cried at books, j would have cried at this one. Very powerful and moving message.

This was a really informative book and gives really good context to how America has gotten to where it is today. Not a happy or hopeful read as it doesn't really give any next steps or ways things may change. Rather the focus is coming to understand the role that issues like masculine power, patriarchy, fear of Islam, etc have played in evangelicals political decisions and their national influence.

This book!!! Father of Contention was exactly what I needed to get out of a reading slump. It's been a while since I've read a book that I did not want to put down!

This book pulls together elements of science and fantasy in such an intriguing way. Renner is a graduate student studying genetics, highly motivated to create a name for himself in the science field after losing so much as a child. When he meets Milena (who I love so dearly), he is immediately doubtful of her claim of psychic abilities. But once he starts to see her powers for what they are, he wonders about the role that genetics play in psychic abilities. His desperation for answers leads him down a dangerous path that he may not be able to return from.

I loved the dynamic between Renner and Milena through the first part of the book as their worldviews were in conflict. I also could see Lanie planting seeds throughout the book related to genetic manipulation, dangerous magic, and an otherworldly voice that alluded to something bigger going on. You get the sense that Lanie has big plans for this series and we are only getting a taste of it!

I can't say much about the crazy twists of this plot without spoiling it, but watching Renner's devolution was wild. I'm so impressed by how Lanie created so much empathy for such a flawed character who became susceptible to powers bigger than himself.

I could also tell that Lanie has a background as a therapist because mental illness was handled well in this book too. You could see the role that trauma played in Renner's story and very realistic responses from Milena on her journey as well. I wanted to yell out loud as I was rooting for her!!

The ending.... Wow. Jaw dropped! Had to tell my husband about the final lines

Interesting read!

This book was a little hard to get through

This is a fantastic, comprehensive review of the impact of ACES (adverse childhood experiences), the importance of screening for them, and research based interventions for reducing the negative effects of toxic stress.

Full review coming soon but this was SUCH a fun book! Felix's antics and personality had me chuckling, and I absolutely loved the writing style. This book is perfectly sweet for middle grade. It not only keeps you engaged with a fun storyline, but I also loved the messages of the book.