Beautiful book bought for my seven year old great granddaughter who loved it.

I received an audiobook copy in exchange for an honest review, and when I listened to Sherry Shenoda’s “The Lightkeeper,” it was with eager anticipation as I had read others’ reviews of the novel. I really liked the idea of a book that included mystery, time travel, romance, and that little bit of something more that meant it would be more than just “fluff.” I was not disappointed.

I tend to listen to audible books on a greater rate of speed than is typically narrated (anywhere from 1.2 if with my children to 2.0 if I’m trying to get through a longer book); I listened to this one at the rate that Ms. Shenoda read it, and I found it enjoyable to do so. Though I typically prefer male narrators, Ms. Shenoda’s voice is pleasant to listen to, and it is easy to grow comfortable with her style and pacing.

What I loved about the novel was that it kept me engaged from beginning to end, and what I hated was that it ended - I wanted more of the characters, more of their stories (especially more peripheral characters), and more time. Of course, the book is about time, so wanting more only makes sense - the characters wanted more also. It was also beautifully written and I found my own use of language bolstered by the listen (in the same way that occurs with more classic novels). I found myself wishing I could “bookmark” certain phrases, observations, or quotations from Herodotus (there are plenty of these and they make you want to go from this book to reading that one), but when listening, all a person can do is enjoy the ride, soak it in, and hope to go back again some day - and I will. I have recommended this book to many others, and I have purchased it once or twice as gifts, and I highly recommend it.

I love this little censer! It has been a nice addition to my prayer shelf. It does get really hot, so once it is going I have to be careful not to touch it again.

Fr. Stephen Siniari’s book Secret Turning is a masterpiece of storytelling. His descriptive prose gives a beautiful and insightful look into the everyday life of a diverse and vibrant Orthodox Parish. While listening to the audible book, it was easy to find myself transported to the yard with Misto telling his story or sitting next to Ms. Ruthie in her Sunday best with gloves. Fr. Siniari’s ability to weave a story with his incredible skill will have you unable to stop once you start. Few authors can paint a picture with words as vibrant as Fr. Siniari. The audible book is just a little over eight hours but is well worth it! This is also the perfect companion to his previous book Big in Heaven. I highly recommend this book both for Orthodox and non-Orthodox alike you will find insight into the humanity of man and his everyday struggle to turn toward God.

Perfect! And a great price

Love this little prayer book. I carry this one with me to work, and have the same one (in black) in my car.

I very much appreciate Fr James for this book. It spoke to my heart. My grandfather was a reformed jew, but we weren't raised jew. I converted to Orthodoxy 5 years ago and love where this faith has taken me. Well worth the listen.

I struggle to decide where to start when writing a review for this book. I found it very beautifully written, the plot intriguing, and I will definitely be reading it again. I'm still working through the parable side of this in my head. It's not something that comes through in its entirety, at least for me, in the first reading. Also, I read the audiobook version, and I tend to do better with a visual reading experience, though I enjoyed this more than other audiobook experiences I have had.

One negative point for me was the portrayal of Christopher Columbus, which I do not agree with, but will not go into detail.
The other was the descriptive romance. It wasn't too much, but I personally prefer those descriptions to be a little more discrete.

As for the audiobook itself, as I said, it was better than others I have tried. There were some phrases I had to go over multiple times to understand, and some words I never could quite make out, but that may have just been me. I will be reading this again in a hard copy in the not-too-distant future!

So beautiful.

My kindergartener loves this and requests it every evening. So accessible and just the right length for her.

Very good!

Amazing book! It hits you at your very core and not a dull moment to be found. I've cried so many times while reading this, but in a healing way. It's spiritually, emotionally, and mentally filling. I would read this time and time again.

I have not read it yet but I have read through it and it really looks like a great book.

My daughter likes it very much.

Not just for kids! Mine are grown but I keep buying these wonderful calendars because they are packed with great info, explanations and ideas for ways to bring our orthodox faith alive each day.

This is essential! I used to feel quite lost in the Holy Week services because I could not follow along (and I don’t speak Greek). This book opened up the services to me and allowed me to participate in it more fully. My only regret is that I didn’t get this years ago. Thank you!

I started this book right after it was published and initially it wasn't what I expected, so I put it aside. I picked it up again a few weeks ago when my heart and soul felt empty and like I was searching for something --- and it was exactly what I needed. This beautifully written book is laced with Orthodox theology and the Orthodox Christian's relationship to the Theotokos, but ultimately, it is a beautiful story about how Mary, in her role as mother of us all through Christ, cares for us. I too am a convert from the Protestant Faith and after 25 years, I am really just now beginning to understand what an important part the Theotokos plays in my spiritual journey. Being able to see what comfort and healing the Theotokos brought to the author gives us all hope that we too can experience the love and intercession of the Mother of our God.

Fantastic color and they are high quality cards. Very pleased

I bought several of these and I gave them to my friends as an Easter gift. They all liked them! It was a very unique gift since they had never seen something like this before! Offer them again next year!

Wonderful service for wonderful books