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Circle C Milestones #1
Thick as Thieves
Girls will love Andrea's new adventures in Circle C Milestones, the continuation of Susan K. Marlow's two popular Circle C series
It's no secret that Andrea Carter would rather ride her beloved palomino, Taffy, than do anything else. Now Taffy's having her first foal, and Andi can't wait to train it to become as good a companion as its mother. The only distraction from those delightful plans is the fear that something may go wrong. When her foaling fears are realized, Andi is grateful for her brother Chad's intervention. It looks like smooth sailing from now on!
Unfortunately, life as a teenager might not be all fun and games after all. There's a new girl at school assigned to sit beside Andi--but Macy Walker is nothing like the other girls. She's homeless and ill-bred, and her mistakes do more than make Andi uncomfortable; they put her life in danger. Meanwhile, cattle rustlers have suddenly descended on the Valley and the Circle C ranch is a target. These outlaws mean business--and their business is theft.
When the thieves change from stealing cattle to stealing horses, it means heartbreaking loss for Andi. Her unpleasant classmate Macy may hold the key to getting Taffy's foal back. Can Andi trust Macy to do the right thing? Does she have a choice?
Picking up the story line of Andrea Carter and the Price of Truth, Thick as Thieves sees Andi growing up just in time for her loyal readers to grow alongside her. The Circle C Milestones series will follow Andi from age 14 to 17, as she begins to tackle the more serious issues facing an older audience and--eventually--discovers love.
It's no secret that Andrea Carter would rather ride her beloved palomino, Taffy, than do anything else. Now Taffy's having her first foal, and Andi can't wait to train it to become as good a companion as its mother. The only distraction from those delightful plans is the fear that something may go wrong. When her foaling fears are realized, Andi is grateful for her brother Chad's intervention. It looks like smooth sailing from now on!
Unfortunately, life as a teenager might not be all fun and games after all. There's a new girl at school assigned to sit beside Andi--but Macy Walker is nothing like the other girls. She's homeless and ill-bred, and her mistakes do more than make Andi uncomfortable; they put her life in danger. Meanwhile, cattle rustlers have suddenly descended on the Valley and the Circle C ranch is a target. These outlaws mean business--and their business is theft.
When the thieves change from stealing cattle to stealing horses, it means heartbreaking loss for Andi. Her unpleasant classmate Macy may hold the key to getting Taffy's foal back. Can Andi trust Macy to do the right thing? Does she have a choice?
Picking up the story line of Andrea Carter and the Price of Truth, Thick as Thieves sees Andi growing up just in time for her loyal readers to grow alongside her. The Circle C Milestones series will follow Andi from age 14 to 17, as she begins to tackle the more serious issues facing an older audience and--eventually--discovers love.
178 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
About the author
Susan K. Marlow
85 books88 followersHOMESCHOOL MOM BY DAY . . . NOVEL WRITER BY NIGHT. Susan began writing stories when she was ten years old. As an adult, she homeschooled teenagers and cared for toddlers during the day, and then escaped into the Old West at night by writing her “Andi” stories. She never intended to become a published author.
However, with the publication in 2005 of her first novel, Andrea Carter and the Long Ride Home, Susan discovered that it really is more fun to share her stories with others than to keep them to herself.
Susan is the author of six historical adventure series for kids: Circle C Beginnings (ages 6-9), Circle C Stepping Stones (ages 7-10), Circle C Adventures (ages 9-13), Circle C Milestones (ages 11 and up), and the Goldtown series: Goldtown Beginnings (ages 6-9), and Goldtown Adventures (ages 9-13), with over 225,000 books in print with Kregel Publications. A brand-new historical series releases May of 2027. She enjoys helping young writers learn to improve their writing with her Writing Workshop. Susan is also a freelance editor. She and her husband, Roger, live on fourteen acres of ponderosa pine at 3,500 feet in north-central Washington state.
However, with the publication in 2005 of her first novel, Andrea Carter and the Long Ride Home, Susan discovered that it really is more fun to share her stories with others than to keep them to herself.
Susan is the author of six historical adventure series for kids: Circle C Beginnings (ages 6-9), Circle C Stepping Stones (ages 7-10), Circle C Adventures (ages 9-13), Circle C Milestones (ages 11 and up), and the Goldtown series: Goldtown Beginnings (ages 6-9), and Goldtown Adventures (ages 9-13), with over 225,000 books in print with Kregel Publications. A brand-new historical series releases May of 2027. She enjoys helping young writers learn to improve their writing with her Writing Workshop. Susan is also a freelance editor. She and her husband, Roger, live on fourteen acres of ponderosa pine at 3,500 feet in north-central Washington state.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
January 10, 2017
I loved the Andrea Carter books when I was younger, and when I heard The author was gonna come out with another I was so excited!! This is a great western for girls 12+ there is some violence.. I love Susan's writing and can't wait for the next one to come out!:)
February 5, 2016
About this book:
“It's no secret that Andrea Carter would rather ride her beloved palomino, Taffy, than do anything else. Now Taffy's having her first foal, and Andi can't wait to train it to become as good a companion as its mother. The only distraction from those delightful plans is the fear that something may go wrong. When her foaling fears are realized, Andi is grateful for her brother Chad's intervention. It looks like smooth sailing from now on!
Unfortunately, life as a teenager might not be all fun and games after all. There's a new girl at school assigned to sit beside Andi--but Macy Walker is nothing like the other girls. She's homeless and ill-bred, and her mistakes do more than make Andi uncomfortable; they put her life in danger. Meanwhile, cattle rustlers have suddenly descended on the Valley and the Circle C ranch is a target. These outlaws mean business--and their business is theft.
When the thieves change from stealing cattle to stealing horses, it means heartbreaking loss for Andi. Her unpleasant classmate Macy may hold the key to getting Taffy's foal back. Can Andi trust Macy to do the right thing? Does she have a choice?”
Series: Book #1 in the “Circle C Milestones” series. {This series is a continuation of this author’s other series “Circle C Beginnings” (for ages 6-8) and the original, “Circle C Adventures” (for ages 8-14). {More about this new series: “Picking up the story line of Andrea Carter and the Price of Truth, Thick as Thieves sees Andi growing up just in time for her loyal readers to grow alongside her. The Circle C Milestones series will follow Andi from age 14 to 17, as she begins to tackle the more serious issues facing an older audience and--eventually--discovers love.”} }
Spiritual Content- 1 Peter 3:8 at the beginning; Prayers; Talks about & mentions of God & trusting Him; Scriptures are quoted and mentioned.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a unfinished ‘what the—‘, two forms of ‘shut up’, three ‘stupid’s, four ‘dumb’s; Curses are said but not written; Macy is spanked, slapped, thrashed and ruler swatted by her brothers & mentions of it (she also punches a boy in his eye); Macy is quite mean & rude; A mention of an Indian fixing to scalp someone (barely-above-not-detailed): Rotting livestock (barely-above-not-detailed); Knifes & Guns (barely-above-not-detailed); A couple mentions of hanging thieves; Mentions of a saloons, drunks & drinking;
Sexual Content- A jerk touches Andi’s check and she tells him to never touch her again; A couple mentions of crushes, winks & a kiss that didn’t happen.
*Note: Foals are born (semi-detailed).
-Andrea “Andi” Carter, age 14
P.O.V. of Andi
Set in 1882
173 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- Two Stars
New Teens- Three Stars (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Four Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and a half)
I wasn’t aware that this was a sequel series but I was able to follow along well (though it would have been nice to know all of Andi’s siblings' ages), but I am looking forward to reviewing the original series. I liked the Spiritual Content but Macy’s brothers were a bit much. Not for sensitive girls.
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Kregel Publications) for this review.
“It's no secret that Andrea Carter would rather ride her beloved palomino, Taffy, than do anything else. Now Taffy's having her first foal, and Andi can't wait to train it to become as good a companion as its mother. The only distraction from those delightful plans is the fear that something may go wrong. When her foaling fears are realized, Andi is grateful for her brother Chad's intervention. It looks like smooth sailing from now on!
Unfortunately, life as a teenager might not be all fun and games after all. There's a new girl at school assigned to sit beside Andi--but Macy Walker is nothing like the other girls. She's homeless and ill-bred, and her mistakes do more than make Andi uncomfortable; they put her life in danger. Meanwhile, cattle rustlers have suddenly descended on the Valley and the Circle C ranch is a target. These outlaws mean business--and their business is theft.
When the thieves change from stealing cattle to stealing horses, it means heartbreaking loss for Andi. Her unpleasant classmate Macy may hold the key to getting Taffy's foal back. Can Andi trust Macy to do the right thing? Does she have a choice?”
Series: Book #1 in the “Circle C Milestones” series. {This series is a continuation of this author’s other series “Circle C Beginnings” (for ages 6-8) and the original, “Circle C Adventures” (for ages 8-14). {More about this new series: “Picking up the story line of Andrea Carter and the Price of Truth, Thick as Thieves sees Andi growing up just in time for her loyal readers to grow alongside her. The Circle C Milestones series will follow Andi from age 14 to 17, as she begins to tackle the more serious issues facing an older audience and--eventually--discovers love.”} }
Spiritual Content- 1 Peter 3:8 at the beginning; Prayers; Talks about & mentions of God & trusting Him; Scriptures are quoted and mentioned.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a unfinished ‘what the—‘, two forms of ‘shut up’, three ‘stupid’s, four ‘dumb’s; Curses are said but not written; Macy is spanked, slapped, thrashed and ruler swatted by her brothers & mentions of it (she also punches a boy in his eye); Macy is quite mean & rude; A mention of an Indian fixing to scalp someone (barely-above-not-detailed): Rotting livestock (barely-above-not-detailed); Knifes & Guns (barely-above-not-detailed); A couple mentions of hanging thieves; Mentions of a saloons, drunks & drinking;
Sexual Content- A jerk touches Andi’s check and she tells him to never touch her again; A couple mentions of crushes, winks & a kiss that didn’t happen.
*Note: Foals are born (semi-detailed).
-Andrea “Andi” Carter, age 14
P.O.V. of Andi
Set in 1882
173 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- Two Stars
New Teens- Three Stars (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Four Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and a half)
I wasn’t aware that this was a sequel series but I was able to follow along well (though it would have been nice to know all of Andi’s siblings' ages), but I am looking forward to reviewing the original series. I liked the Spiritual Content but Macy’s brothers were a bit much. Not for sensitive girls.
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Kregel Publications) for this review.
July 19, 2015
"Thick As Thieves" is the first book in the Circle C Milestones series. The Circle C Milestones series follows two previously published Andrea Carter series - the Circle C Beginnings series and the Circle C Adventure series - and follows the life of Andrea from ages 14-18. This is the first book I've read by Susan K. Marlow, and even though I haven't read the previous book series about Andrea Carter, I was able to follow this story just fine.
The book starts with Andrea's horse Taffy about to give birth, but a rare occurance during the birth has Andrea worried about Taffy. After Taffy gives birth, all Andrea wants to do is spend all of her free time training the new colts on the ranch. She definitely doesn't want to return to school for the winter school term, especially since it would mean she wouldn't have much time to spend with the colts. But her mother insists that she must go back to school.
As if it wasn't hard enough for Andrea to concentrate on finishing the school year with good grades rather than think about the horses she could be spending her time with, Macy - a new bully with crude manners - arrives at the school and causes difficulties for everyone in the school, but most of all for Andrea who has been assigned as Macy's seatmate. When Andrea goes to others for advice about what to do about Macy, they tell her to try to be a friend to Macy; however, that's the last thing Andrea wants to do. But an unexpected event causes Andrea to see why Macy acts the way she does.
Meanwhile, cattle rustlers are stealing cattle and horses from several ranches including the Carter ranch. When Andrea's beloved colts are stolen, there is only one person who can help her find them - Macy. Can Andrea forgive Macy for the way she has treated her and find a way to befriend her? And can Andrea and Macy learn to trust each other and find a way to work together to rescue the colts?
I really enjoyed "Thick As Thieves"! I started reading it right before I went to bed one night which was a mistake because once I started reading it I did not want to put it down (even though I had to after a few chapters)! I picked it up again the next day as soon as I could and did not stop reading until I had finished it. I thought it was a great story with action, mystery, and good themes of friendship, faith, trust, forgiveness, and loving others. I thought Andrea was a realistic character with struggles that teens could relate to. I really liked this book and would recommend it to teens. I definitely want to read the other Andrea Carter books now!
Things to be aware of: There is some violence in the story. Also, Macy's brothers are very mean and crude and there are mentions that Macy has been thrashed/beaten by her brothers.
*I received this book for free from Kregel through Book Fun in exchange for my honest review.
The book starts with Andrea's horse Taffy about to give birth, but a rare occurance during the birth has Andrea worried about Taffy. After Taffy gives birth, all Andrea wants to do is spend all of her free time training the new colts on the ranch. She definitely doesn't want to return to school for the winter school term, especially since it would mean she wouldn't have much time to spend with the colts. But her mother insists that she must go back to school.
As if it wasn't hard enough for Andrea to concentrate on finishing the school year with good grades rather than think about the horses she could be spending her time with, Macy - a new bully with crude manners - arrives at the school and causes difficulties for everyone in the school, but most of all for Andrea who has been assigned as Macy's seatmate. When Andrea goes to others for advice about what to do about Macy, they tell her to try to be a friend to Macy; however, that's the last thing Andrea wants to do. But an unexpected event causes Andrea to see why Macy acts the way she does.
Meanwhile, cattle rustlers are stealing cattle and horses from several ranches including the Carter ranch. When Andrea's beloved colts are stolen, there is only one person who can help her find them - Macy. Can Andrea forgive Macy for the way she has treated her and find a way to befriend her? And can Andrea and Macy learn to trust each other and find a way to work together to rescue the colts?
I really enjoyed "Thick As Thieves"! I started reading it right before I went to bed one night which was a mistake because once I started reading it I did not want to put it down (even though I had to after a few chapters)! I picked it up again the next day as soon as I could and did not stop reading until I had finished it. I thought it was a great story with action, mystery, and good themes of friendship, faith, trust, forgiveness, and loving others. I thought Andrea was a realistic character with struggles that teens could relate to. I really liked this book and would recommend it to teens. I definitely want to read the other Andrea Carter books now!
Things to be aware of: There is some violence in the story. Also, Macy's brothers are very mean and crude and there are mentions that Macy has been thrashed/beaten by her brothers.
*I received this book for free from Kregel through Book Fun in exchange for my honest review.
July 25, 2015
Saddle up partner….we are adventuring to the Circle C Ranch
in the San Joaquin Valley of California. The time period is in
the 1880’s.
We are going to visit Andrea Carter called Andi by all her family
and friends. Andi is a typical teenager who would rather skip
school to ride her horse, Taffy and help run the ranch. But even
after her horse births twin foals, Andi’s mother is very strict that
she must attend school. What could be worse???
How about when Maci Walker comes to town and school…
Maci is assigned as Andi’s seatmate.
This new girl is a big bully plus she is dirty and smelly. What is
Andi to do? How can Andi overcome her dislike of the new girl?
The author address social issues such as bullying, dysfunctional
family life, living with fear, rejection and deceit. It shows how
one can learn to break free of the past and live with faith,
friendship, trust and love.
The story is fast paced, suspenseful with well developed
characters.
Thank you to book fun.org and Kregel Publications for this Book.
My opinion is my own.
in the San Joaquin Valley of California. The time period is in
the 1880’s.
We are going to visit Andrea Carter called Andi by all her family
and friends. Andi is a typical teenager who would rather skip
school to ride her horse, Taffy and help run the ranch. But even
after her horse births twin foals, Andi’s mother is very strict that
she must attend school. What could be worse???
How about when Maci Walker comes to town and school…
Maci is assigned as Andi’s seatmate.
This new girl is a big bully plus she is dirty and smelly. What is
Andi to do? How can Andi overcome her dislike of the new girl?
The author address social issues such as bullying, dysfunctional
family life, living with fear, rejection and deceit. It shows how
one can learn to break free of the past and live with faith,
friendship, trust and love.
The story is fast paced, suspenseful with well developed
characters.
Thank you to book fun.org and Kregel Publications for this Book.
My opinion is my own.
February 5, 2019
I enjoyed this much more than I had expected. I actually picked this not knowing anything about it. I saw the name and it reminded me of the summer camp I attended when I was about 12. The camp was called Circle Square Ranch and this book reminded me so much that place! I felt as though I had traveled back to the days when we spent our summer horseback riding, hiking up dusty trails, making new friends, and singing bible songs at the campfire. I absolutely adored that place, a small part of me will always live there.
Anyway back to the book, I just loved the friendship development between Andi and Macy. My only complaint was that the ending was a little expected. I will also be continuing on the Circle C Milestones.
I haven’t read the Circle C Adventures yet but I will be getting to them as soon as they arrive in the mail.
Anyway back to the book, I just loved the friendship development between Andi and Macy. My only complaint was that the ending was a little expected. I will also be continuing on the Circle C Milestones.
I haven’t read the Circle C Adventures yet but I will be getting to them as soon as they arrive in the mail.
July 24, 2026
Thick as Thieves is a wonderful blend of adventure, faith, friendship, and heartfelt life lessons. Susan K. Marlow does an excellent job showing Andrea's growth as she faces difficult choices, learns compassion, and discovers that true character is revealed in challenging moments. The relationship between Andi and Macy adds emotional depth, while the horse and ranch storyline keeps the pages turning. I especially appreciated how the Christian themes were woven naturally into the story without overshadowing the exciting plot. This is an inspiring historical novel filled with courage, forgiveness, and hope. A fantastic start to the Circle C Milestones series that readers of all ages can enjoy.
June 20, 2025
Audiobook: I enjoyed this story. I appreciated the care and concern which Andi had for her horse, and for Andi's interrelationships with her family members. I was sad over Andi's loss. I applauded Andi's growth in maturity. I listened to the action scenes with bated breath. I was entertained by Annette Romano's narration as her performance was a pleasure to listen to and easy to follow. I was given a copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.
August 27, 2019
Thick as Thieves is GOOD. Really good. Reminded me why I like this series so much. Yes, it's a little cheesy at times. Yes, Andi makes a few stupid decisions But it's so much more believable than most of Adventures, and sets up the future quite nicely. Looking forward to resuming my re-read!
January 17, 2024
Susan K. Marlow never, ever dissapoints. I've read and Reread all of her milestone series from cover to cover. And i'm still in love with it!
January 2, 2025
Very invigorating and exiting it’s also a little sad for Macys end but a must read for a crazy horse girl
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2026
by far my favorite book
April 24, 2020
** I received this book in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion or the content of my review. **
fast, easy read. Good YA. First of series.
fast, easy read. Good YA. First of series.
April 27, 2015
For girls 14 to 18 that are looking for a great series set back in the late 1800's that involve horses, you'll want to pick up Thick as Thieves, the first book in the Circle C Milestones Series, from Susan K. Marlow. As a young girl myself growing up there is such a connection with the love of a girl and her horse and that is why I absolutely recommend this book to your young readers as well.
Andrea Carter, who just turned 14, is the youngest on the Circle C Ranch but is about to get the surprise of her life when her Palomino, Taffy gives birth to two twin colts, Shasta and Sunny. As she tries to keep up training them, she still has to deal with attending school. Her mother is less than pleased when she brings home less than favorable marks, which her mother suspects is caused by all her free time being used for training horses instead of studying. So until she can bring up her marks, she will have very limited time with them. Running a cattle and horse ranch is extraordinary busy but none more so than when suspected cattle thieves are slowly thinning the herds from the local ranchers.
Andi thinks things will go fine with the extra study time, until she is assigned as a seat mate at her desk in school with Macy Walker who will be the straw that breaks the camel's back at school. Before the end of her first day, Macy has given Cory, a classmate, a black eye, pulled more than one girls hair and has challenged the teacher to punish her if he dares. It will be all she can deal with if Macy gets her suspended from school for hitting her, then she will have even less time to work with her colts than she does now and forget raising her marks if she is kicked out of school. How can one girls life get so complicated?
I received Thick as Thieves by Susan K. Marlow compliments of Kregel Publications for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own. If you have a young adult who loves horse adventures, trust me, pick up this entire series. While this is the first in the Circle C Milestones, readers will enjoy learning more about Andi's life on the ranch with the Circle C Adventure Series and Circle C Beginnings as well. For me, this was an easy 5 out of 5 stars because I grew up loving books like this one. I only wish there were more to read when I grew up as there is now. This is such a great adventure and shows how difficult it is for Andi to maintain her Christian upbringing in the face of adversity and that just makes it all the more enjoyable because it is so real for teens in those situations!
Andrea Carter, who just turned 14, is the youngest on the Circle C Ranch but is about to get the surprise of her life when her Palomino, Taffy gives birth to two twin colts, Shasta and Sunny. As she tries to keep up training them, she still has to deal with attending school. Her mother is less than pleased when she brings home less than favorable marks, which her mother suspects is caused by all her free time being used for training horses instead of studying. So until she can bring up her marks, she will have very limited time with them. Running a cattle and horse ranch is extraordinary busy but none more so than when suspected cattle thieves are slowly thinning the herds from the local ranchers.
Andi thinks things will go fine with the extra study time, until she is assigned as a seat mate at her desk in school with Macy Walker who will be the straw that breaks the camel's back at school. Before the end of her first day, Macy has given Cory, a classmate, a black eye, pulled more than one girls hair and has challenged the teacher to punish her if he dares. It will be all she can deal with if Macy gets her suspended from school for hitting her, then she will have even less time to work with her colts than she does now and forget raising her marks if she is kicked out of school. How can one girls life get so complicated?
I received Thick as Thieves by Susan K. Marlow compliments of Kregel Publications for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own. If you have a young adult who loves horse adventures, trust me, pick up this entire series. While this is the first in the Circle C Milestones, readers will enjoy learning more about Andi's life on the ranch with the Circle C Adventure Series and Circle C Beginnings as well. For me, this was an easy 5 out of 5 stars because I grew up loving books like this one. I only wish there were more to read when I grew up as there is now. This is such a great adventure and shows how difficult it is for Andi to maintain her Christian upbringing in the face of adversity and that just makes it all the more enjoyable because it is so real for teens in those situations!
April 17, 2015
Thick as thieves is the first book in the Circle C Milestones series, but far from being the first about Andrea Carter. In this one, she is four-teen years old, and would love nothing more than to spend her days riding and being with her horse, Taffy, but sadly there is school and chores to be done on the farm. And on top of this, Taffy is nearing the time to deliver her first foal. It will be nothing like Andi or her brother expects.
After the birth, it is not long before Andi must return to school. If that wasn't enough, as now her time spent with foal training will be limited, her best friend Rosa will not be returning as she is now of marrying age and strike three, there is a new girl in school, and with other seats available, Mr. Foster the teacher has placed her right beside Andi. This new girl, Macy Walker, is rude and cruel, is not clean, in fact she smells. How will Andi get out of this mess?
Arriving home, she finds no one to listen to her trivial problem, what with cattle rustlers getting more of their livestock. Finally she has a chat with an older sister, and they come up with a plan to befriend Macy, even if Andi is sure it won't work.
Then on her way home from school, Andi has a harrowing experience when Taffy takes off running like crazy. She could have been killed, but thankfully wasn't but knows whom is responsible and goes back to town to deal with the situation...but then her heart is softened when she sees yet another of Macy's brothers treating her so mean, as if she was nothing to him. This is so hard for Andi to see, with all of her brothers and sisters loving her so much. How can family treat one another like this?
Will this be the beginning of a beautiful friendship? or will Macy's hard shell be too hard to crack? What will happen when Andis' foals are stolen along with others from their ranch? Will they have luck finding them, when no one has been able as of yet, to track down the rustlers?
You will have to pick up for yourself and read this book. I would definitely recommend this book for young girls, 8-14, especially if they have a love of horses. There is adventure, good family values, and so much more. And if you like this one, this author has a great variety of books about this wonderful character.
I was given this book by bookfun.org in exchange for an honest review.
After the birth, it is not long before Andi must return to school. If that wasn't enough, as now her time spent with foal training will be limited, her best friend Rosa will not be returning as she is now of marrying age and strike three, there is a new girl in school, and with other seats available, Mr. Foster the teacher has placed her right beside Andi. This new girl, Macy Walker, is rude and cruel, is not clean, in fact she smells. How will Andi get out of this mess?
Arriving home, she finds no one to listen to her trivial problem, what with cattle rustlers getting more of their livestock. Finally she has a chat with an older sister, and they come up with a plan to befriend Macy, even if Andi is sure it won't work.
Then on her way home from school, Andi has a harrowing experience when Taffy takes off running like crazy. She could have been killed, but thankfully wasn't but knows whom is responsible and goes back to town to deal with the situation...but then her heart is softened when she sees yet another of Macy's brothers treating her so mean, as if she was nothing to him. This is so hard for Andi to see, with all of her brothers and sisters loving her so much. How can family treat one another like this?
Will this be the beginning of a beautiful friendship? or will Macy's hard shell be too hard to crack? What will happen when Andis' foals are stolen along with others from their ranch? Will they have luck finding them, when no one has been able as of yet, to track down the rustlers?
You will have to pick up for yourself and read this book. I would definitely recommend this book for young girls, 8-14, especially if they have a love of horses. There is adventure, good family values, and so much more. And if you like this one, this author has a great variety of books about this wonderful character.
I was given this book by bookfun.org in exchange for an honest review.
May 2, 2015
Susan K. Marlow in her new book, “Thick as Thieves” Book One in the Circle C Milestones series published by Kregel Publications gives us a new adventure with Andrea Carter.
From the back cover: Fourteen-year-old Andrea Carter would rather ride her beloved palomino, Taffy, than do anything else. But life on the Circle C ranch in 1882 is busy. Between school and chores, Andi is left with little time to prepare for Taffy’s first foaling. Then when the event finally arrives, it nearly ends in disaster.
Returning to school keeps Andi hard-pressed to find time for foal training. And she now has a new problem on her hands–Macy Walker, who has been assigned as Andi’s seatmate. The new girl’s crude manners and cruel behavior bring storm clouds into Andi’s life, as does the news that cattle rustlers have moved into the valley.
When the cattle rustlers turn to stealing horses and strike the Carter ranch, Andi’s only hope for recovering her precious colts lies with Macy. Can Andi trust this wild girl? Does she have a choice?
How do we deal with others who have not had the upbringing that we have had? That is the exact situation that Andi finds herself in when she starts the new school semester. Macy, as a person, is like sandpaper. Andi is refined and well-mannered. When these two are forced to be seat mates it looks to Andi as though she might get kicked out of school. On top of all this there is the problem among the ranchers of the rustlers which, it turns out, affects her personally. Now these two must learn to work together to restore what was stolen. There is lots of adventure packed into this story as well as plenty of suspense. Now that she is fourteen Andi has a lot to learn about life and about accepting others. I think Susan K. Marlow is an extremely talented writer who really knows how to tell a story that will grab you and keep you flipping pages. “Thick as Thieves” is a very exciting book that will keep you engrossed in the characters. I am so looking forward to the next book in this series.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Kregel Publications. 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.”
From the back cover: Fourteen-year-old Andrea Carter would rather ride her beloved palomino, Taffy, than do anything else. But life on the Circle C ranch in 1882 is busy. Between school and chores, Andi is left with little time to prepare for Taffy’s first foaling. Then when the event finally arrives, it nearly ends in disaster.
Returning to school keeps Andi hard-pressed to find time for foal training. And she now has a new problem on her hands–Macy Walker, who has been assigned as Andi’s seatmate. The new girl’s crude manners and cruel behavior bring storm clouds into Andi’s life, as does the news that cattle rustlers have moved into the valley.
When the cattle rustlers turn to stealing horses and strike the Carter ranch, Andi’s only hope for recovering her precious colts lies with Macy. Can Andi trust this wild girl? Does she have a choice?
How do we deal with others who have not had the upbringing that we have had? That is the exact situation that Andi finds herself in when she starts the new school semester. Macy, as a person, is like sandpaper. Andi is refined and well-mannered. When these two are forced to be seat mates it looks to Andi as though she might get kicked out of school. On top of all this there is the problem among the ranchers of the rustlers which, it turns out, affects her personally. Now these two must learn to work together to restore what was stolen. There is lots of adventure packed into this story as well as plenty of suspense. Now that she is fourteen Andi has a lot to learn about life and about accepting others. I think Susan K. Marlow is an extremely talented writer who really knows how to tell a story that will grab you and keep you flipping pages. “Thick as Thieves” is a very exciting book that will keep you engrossed in the characters. I am so looking forward to the next book in this series.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Kregel Publications. 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.”
April 27, 2015
Andrea Carter, almost 14, is the daughter of a horse rancher. Having lost her father at a young age, her mother and older brothers run the ranch and Andi wants to be part of it all. She'd rather be working with her horses than going to school--especially when a rude, and unkempt new girl gets assigned to share a desk with Andi. Macy is the terror of the school as she bullies kids at recess and does all she can to make life miserable for Andi in particular. How is Andi supposed to love someone like that?
Andi's not the only one with problems. Her brothers are worried about cattle rustlers that have been striking the area. The criminals keep eluding detection and no on has been able to find the missing cattle. Then things take a very personal turn as the rustlers steal some of Carter's horses. Andi wants her beloved horses back at all costs but will she endanger her life in the process?
Susan K. Marlow has one of the best websites around. The author provides a 40 page free downloadable study guide for Thick as Thieves (as well as guides for all of her other books). The study guide provides some background for the story and includes vocabulary, reading comprehension questions as well as enrichment activities. The next book in the Circle C Milestone series, Heartbreak Trail, comes out in July 2015.
I cannot say enough good things about this author and her books. They are one of the best series we have encountered for kids. What I particularly appreciate is that the author incorporates Scripture in a gentle way, helping readers understand that the Bible can help teach and instruct them in the right path. I have enjoyed these books as an adult and wholeheartedly recommend and endorse them for any age. Younger readers will want to start with Circle C Beginnings, upper elementary and early middle school will enjoy Circle C Adventures, and upper middle to high school readers will enjoy Circle C Milestones. Marlow even has a series for boys called Goldtown Adventures, geared for 8 to 12 year olds. (Received book from Kregel Publications for purpose of review).
Andi's not the only one with problems. Her brothers are worried about cattle rustlers that have been striking the area. The criminals keep eluding detection and no on has been able to find the missing cattle. Then things take a very personal turn as the rustlers steal some of Carter's horses. Andi wants her beloved horses back at all costs but will she endanger her life in the process?
Susan K. Marlow has one of the best websites around. The author provides a 40 page free downloadable study guide for Thick as Thieves (as well as guides for all of her other books). The study guide provides some background for the story and includes vocabulary, reading comprehension questions as well as enrichment activities. The next book in the Circle C Milestone series, Heartbreak Trail, comes out in July 2015.
I cannot say enough good things about this author and her books. They are one of the best series we have encountered for kids. What I particularly appreciate is that the author incorporates Scripture in a gentle way, helping readers understand that the Bible can help teach and instruct them in the right path. I have enjoyed these books as an adult and wholeheartedly recommend and endorse them for any age. Younger readers will want to start with Circle C Beginnings, upper elementary and early middle school will enjoy Circle C Adventures, and upper middle to high school readers will enjoy Circle C Milestones. Marlow even has a series for boys called Goldtown Adventures, geared for 8 to 12 year olds. (Received book from Kregel Publications for purpose of review).
April 27, 2015
Thick as Thieves by Susan K Marlow is the first book in the Circle C Milestones series. It is a great book geared for preteens and young teenagers. My recommendation would be for 8-15 years old. It is a historical fiction story and is a filled with adventure, family values and horses. Oh how I loved to read books about horses when I was a young girl and this book brought me right back. It is just the kind of book that I would of loved. Even though I am older now and my interests have changed I still found it to be an interesting read.
If you have a daughter or granddaughter that loves to read, loves horses and loves adventure stories this would be a great addition to your home library. As a homeschool mom this is just the kind of book I like to recommend!
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Andrea Carter is fourteen years old and all she wants to do is ride her horse Taffy. When Taffy gives birth to twin foals she would rather stay home and take care of the horses. She thinks she knows all she needs to know and doesn't need any more schooling. To add to her dislike for school, Andrea has been assigned to befriend new student Macy Walker. Macy walker is wild and and mean. On top of everything cattle rustlers are now threatening the Circle C. When the cattle rustlers turn to stealing horses the thing that Andrea loves most is now threatened. It looks like the only one who can help her is Macy Walker, but Can Andrea trust this girl?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Susan K. Marlow is always on the lookout for a new story, whether she's writing books, teaching writing workshops, or sharing what she's learned as a homschooling mom. The author of the Circle C Adventures and the Circle C Beginnings, Susan enjoys relaxing on her fourteen-acre homestead in the great state of Washington. Connect with Susan at CircleCMilestones.com.
***This book was provided to me through Kregel Publications as a part of their blogger review program in exchange for my honest review.
If you have a daughter or granddaughter that loves to read, loves horses and loves adventure stories this would be a great addition to your home library. As a homeschool mom this is just the kind of book I like to recommend!
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Andrea Carter is fourteen years old and all she wants to do is ride her horse Taffy. When Taffy gives birth to twin foals she would rather stay home and take care of the horses. She thinks she knows all she needs to know and doesn't need any more schooling. To add to her dislike for school, Andrea has been assigned to befriend new student Macy Walker. Macy walker is wild and and mean. On top of everything cattle rustlers are now threatening the Circle C. When the cattle rustlers turn to stealing horses the thing that Andrea loves most is now threatened. It looks like the only one who can help her is Macy Walker, but Can Andrea trust this girl?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Susan K. Marlow is always on the lookout for a new story, whether she's writing books, teaching writing workshops, or sharing what she's learned as a homschooling mom. The author of the Circle C Adventures and the Circle C Beginnings, Susan enjoys relaxing on her fourteen-acre homestead in the great state of Washington. Connect with Susan at CircleCMilestones.com.
***This book was provided to me through Kregel Publications as a part of their blogger review program in exchange for my honest review.
April 17, 2015
Colts, Cattle, Canyons and Adolescent Kinship
Thick as Thieves is an adventure filled story with tomboy Andrea (Andi) as the feisty teenaged main character. The book is a first in a new series (Circle C Milestones) by the new-to-me author, Susan K. Marlow and was reminiscent to me of my childhood reading of books like The Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew series. Not having read the prior two series (Circle C Adventures and the Circle C Beginnings) was not a deterrent to enjoying this book. Even though there were references to what seem to be prior adventures, the story line and themes of this book were well developed enough to keep the reader's attention and not leave unanswered questions of what may have happened in prior books. Andi's love for horses, especially now that her horse Taffy has given birth to rare twin colts, leaves school as a far second on her list of things to do. And to make things worse she is paired at school with one of the most unloveable people Andi can imagine. Marlow uses their budding friendship, differing lifestyles and unexpected troublesome adventures to bring out the importance of looking beyond the outward appearance to judge others. The importance of having a loving, supportive family and learning God's Word ("Why did Bible verses pop into her head at the most awkward times?") are also good lessons that Marlow brings to her intended audience of middle grade youths. Even though written for the younger age group with the excitement of birthing foals, runaway horse rides and cattle rustling, Thick As Thieves is an enjoyable and entertaining read for those of us who may have a few years on us too.
I received a copy of this book through The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) in exchange for my honest review. I have posted reviews on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Deepershopping.com, Christianbook.com, Bookfun.org and GoodReads.
Thick as Thieves is an adventure filled story with tomboy Andrea (Andi) as the feisty teenaged main character. The book is a first in a new series (Circle C Milestones) by the new-to-me author, Susan K. Marlow and was reminiscent to me of my childhood reading of books like The Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew series. Not having read the prior two series (Circle C Adventures and the Circle C Beginnings) was not a deterrent to enjoying this book. Even though there were references to what seem to be prior adventures, the story line and themes of this book were well developed enough to keep the reader's attention and not leave unanswered questions of what may have happened in prior books. Andi's love for horses, especially now that her horse Taffy has given birth to rare twin colts, leaves school as a far second on her list of things to do. And to make things worse she is paired at school with one of the most unloveable people Andi can imagine. Marlow uses their budding friendship, differing lifestyles and unexpected troublesome adventures to bring out the importance of looking beyond the outward appearance to judge others. The importance of having a loving, supportive family and learning God's Word ("Why did Bible verses pop into her head at the most awkward times?") are also good lessons that Marlow brings to her intended audience of middle grade youths. Even though written for the younger age group with the excitement of birthing foals, runaway horse rides and cattle rustling, Thick As Thieves is an enjoyable and entertaining read for those of us who may have a few years on us too.
I received a copy of this book through The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) in exchange for my honest review. I have posted reviews on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Deepershopping.com, Christianbook.com, Bookfun.org and GoodReads.
April 29, 2015
From Christian author Susan Marlow comes yet another book for young people! This new chapter book is the start of another collection of books about the popular character Andrea Carter who lives on a ranch in California! Readers who have enjoyed the previous books about Andi (the Circle C beginnings and adventures) will be delighted that the author has decided to continue sharing fictional Andrea's adventures as she grows into a young lady!
New readers will find, just as I did, that any of Susan Marlow's books can be read on their own as well as part of the series. Of course once you read Mrs. Marlow's works you will want to get her other titles as well!
I have always been an avid reader. Growing up, I loved historical fiction. Now that I am an adult, I still enjoy speed-reading books for a younger audience in the hopes of finding new favorites for my siblings as well as my future children. Although there are many wonderful books for children and young adults which are not particularly Christian (think Little House and such), it is always great to be able to provide books for your children which reinforce Biblical truths and grace. I have found that Susan's books stay true to the Christian faith without becoming fake or unrealistic.
Unusually for Christian works of fiction, her books are also quite exciting. These books make splendid read-aloud as well as personal reading books.
In Thick as Thieves, now fourteen-years old, Andrea Carter learns the meaning of true friendship through an exciting series of events.
The lessons within this book are applicable to all ages- boys or girls. I am looking forward to Susan Marlow's next books in the series!
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. Thank you!
New readers will find, just as I did, that any of Susan Marlow's books can be read on their own as well as part of the series. Of course once you read Mrs. Marlow's works you will want to get her other titles as well!
I have always been an avid reader. Growing up, I loved historical fiction. Now that I am an adult, I still enjoy speed-reading books for a younger audience in the hopes of finding new favorites for my siblings as well as my future children. Although there are many wonderful books for children and young adults which are not particularly Christian (think Little House and such), it is always great to be able to provide books for your children which reinforce Biblical truths and grace. I have found that Susan's books stay true to the Christian faith without becoming fake or unrealistic.
Unusually for Christian works of fiction, her books are also quite exciting. These books make splendid read-aloud as well as personal reading books.
In Thick as Thieves, now fourteen-years old, Andrea Carter learns the meaning of true friendship through an exciting series of events.
The lessons within this book are applicable to all ages- boys or girls. I am looking forward to Susan Marlow's next books in the series!
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. Thank you!
March 28, 2016
Thick as Thieves is an action packed historical novel where we meet Andrea Carter, a 14 year old girl who lives on a cattle ranch near Fresno, California in the 1880’s. The book begins with Andi’s palomino preparing to give birth. After much difficulty Taffy finally delivers twin foals. Andi would prefer to stay on the ranch and train her horses than attend school but she has no say in the matter. To make matters worse, Macy, a new student who is illiterate, crude, rude and mean becomes her seatmate. Macy proceeds to make Andi’s life miserable, even causing Andi’s horse to bolt and race away with Andi hanging on for dear life.
Horses and cattle are disappearing from Andi’s family’s ranch as well as from other ranches in the area. Because trouble always seems to follow Andi, she and Macy locate the stolen horses and cattle and devise a plan to rescue the animals which proves to be a very dangerous undertaking leading to a dramatic conclusion.
Thick as Thieves is a book that works on many levels. Through Andi’s journal entries, we see Andi’s growing maturity. Andi learns the value of friendship, family and forgiveness as she gains understanding for someone who is lost and lonely. Andi’s Christian faith is woven throughout the story and serves to guide her as she makes difficult decisions.
Not only is Thick as Thieves and exciting and enjoyable story with well-developed characters but it brings to life California in the 1880’s. Through the pages of this book we learn about cattle ranching, home and school life as well as the early days of the city of Fresno.
This book is recommended for any young teen who loves horses and adventure. It is the first in the Circle C Milestones series.
Horses and cattle are disappearing from Andi’s family’s ranch as well as from other ranches in the area. Because trouble always seems to follow Andi, she and Macy locate the stolen horses and cattle and devise a plan to rescue the animals which proves to be a very dangerous undertaking leading to a dramatic conclusion.
Thick as Thieves is a book that works on many levels. Through Andi’s journal entries, we see Andi’s growing maturity. Andi learns the value of friendship, family and forgiveness as she gains understanding for someone who is lost and lonely. Andi’s Christian faith is woven throughout the story and serves to guide her as she makes difficult decisions.
Not only is Thick as Thieves and exciting and enjoyable story with well-developed characters but it brings to life California in the 1880’s. Through the pages of this book we learn about cattle ranching, home and school life as well as the early days of the city of Fresno.
This book is recommended for any young teen who loves horses and adventure. It is the first in the Circle C Milestones series.
April 30, 2015
I’m so glad that Susan has written a new series with an older Andrea because this will appeal to older girls where the younger Andi wouldn’t. In this newest book and beginning of the Circle C Milestones series Andrea is 14 and she has matured, sort of, and is now facing troubles that a lot of 14 year old girls do – issues with friends and/or classmates, butting heads with family members and much more. I read this in one day, it wasn’t a long or terribly hard read and it was thoroughly enjoyable – the suspense also feels ‘older’ it keeps the reader on the edge of their seat without being too much. Andrea is still the girl that we love in the other books – she is quick to act and sometimes slow to think – but she almost always has someone else best interest at heart even if she might get in trouble later.
I will say I don’t have horse loving daughters and we live in the city so while my girls don’t really have much in common with Andrea Carter it’s still a book at least one of them will enjoy reading. Andrea isn’t allowed to get away with bad behavior and her mom and her older brothers keep her in line, and there is plenty of themes of relying on the Lord through the whole book. I like the character of Macy Walker, who is brought up by her rough brothers and told that God isn’t real – it was an eye opener I think for Andrea but as she and her family love on the ‘unlovable’ Macy we see the changes that only God can make. This is a fantastic addition and allows our daughters (and even sons) to follow Andrea from child hood to young woman-hood and only in a way that Susan Marlow could do!
**I was provided a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion, no other compensation was given.
I will say I don’t have horse loving daughters and we live in the city so while my girls don’t really have much in common with Andrea Carter it’s still a book at least one of them will enjoy reading. Andrea isn’t allowed to get away with bad behavior and her mom and her older brothers keep her in line, and there is plenty of themes of relying on the Lord through the whole book. I like the character of Macy Walker, who is brought up by her rough brothers and told that God isn’t real – it was an eye opener I think for Andrea but as she and her family love on the ‘unlovable’ Macy we see the changes that only God can make. This is a fantastic addition and allows our daughters (and even sons) to follow Andrea from child hood to young woman-hood and only in a way that Susan Marlow could do!
**I was provided a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion, no other compensation was given.
April 30, 2015
Thick as Thieves
Circle C Milestones 1
An Andrea Carter Book
By Susan K. Marlow
Andi Carter's horse Taffy is her pride and joy and she's nearly beside herself with anticipation and worry about Taffy's first foal. Taffy's delivery is difficult and nearly costs the life of both the mare and the foals.
But school keeps Andi from spending as much time with her beloved horses as she wants to. After all the foals need to be worked with, to be trained. But her mother insists that school is important. But more than the new foals make school miserable for Andi. Macy Walker is new to school and she's determined to make life miserable for everyone, especially her seatmate Andi.
Cattle rustlers have moved in and are striking all the ranches in the area. But Andi is more concerned about having a bully in the schoolroom than rustlers until the Circle C's horses are threatened. Can Andi keep her horses safe? Or will she lose them to the rustlers?
Thick as Thieves is set in the 1880's in the San Joaquin Valley of California. This book examines the importance of family and how they influence how we live. Andi's family is loving and caring, which is in sharp contrast to Macy and her family. Often those who strike out are hurting and need a friend. But to someone who has been hurt offered friendship may be hard to accept. How do you trust when trust has been destroyed? Tweens and teens will enjoy this book especially if they have a fondness for horses,.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher through the Kregel Blog Tour program in exchange for my honest review and tour participation.
Circle C Milestones 1
An Andrea Carter Book
By Susan K. Marlow
Andi Carter's horse Taffy is her pride and joy and she's nearly beside herself with anticipation and worry about Taffy's first foal. Taffy's delivery is difficult and nearly costs the life of both the mare and the foals.
But school keeps Andi from spending as much time with her beloved horses as she wants to. After all the foals need to be worked with, to be trained. But her mother insists that school is important. But more than the new foals make school miserable for Andi. Macy Walker is new to school and she's determined to make life miserable for everyone, especially her seatmate Andi.
Cattle rustlers have moved in and are striking all the ranches in the area. But Andi is more concerned about having a bully in the schoolroom than rustlers until the Circle C's horses are threatened. Can Andi keep her horses safe? Or will she lose them to the rustlers?
Thick as Thieves is set in the 1880's in the San Joaquin Valley of California. This book examines the importance of family and how they influence how we live. Andi's family is loving and caring, which is in sharp contrast to Macy and her family. Often those who strike out are hurting and need a friend. But to someone who has been hurt offered friendship may be hard to accept. How do you trust when trust has been destroyed? Tweens and teens will enjoy this book especially if they have a fondness for horses,.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher through the Kregel Blog Tour program in exchange for my honest review and tour participation.
February 6, 2015
Fourteen-year-old Andrea Carter would rather ride her beloved palomino, Taffy, than do anything else. But life on the Circle C ranch in 1882 is busy. Between school and chores, Andi is left with little time to prepare for Taffy’s first foaling. Then when the event finally arrives, it nearly ends in disaster.
Returning to school keeps Andi hard-pressed to find time for foal training. And she now has a new problem on her hands--Macy Walker, who has been assigned as Andi’s seatmate. The new girl’s crude manners and cruel behavior bring storm clouds into Andi’s life, as does the news that cattle rustlers have moved into the valley.
When the cattle rustlers turn to stealing horses and strike the Carter ranch, Andi’s only hope for recovering her precious colts lies with Macy. Can Andi trust this wild girl? Does she have a choice?
THICK AS THIEVES is the first book in Ms. Marlow’s Circle C Milestones series. I have been a long time fan of Ms. Marlow’s books and I was so excited when I got this one in the mail to read.
I loved THICK AS THIEVES because it was filled with adventure and it had valuable lessons, such as it’s better to be a friend who sticks closer than a brother than a non-truthful one. There is also that you can’t always judge by appearances what a person is really like.
I highly recommend THICK AS THIEVES. It’s an awesome book. I can’t wait until I get Ms. Marlow’s next book in this series Heartbreak Trail.
172 pages. Available in paperback. 5 stars.
January 21, 2016
Andrea really, really doesn't want to go to school. Her mare has just had twin foals and she feels like her time would be better spent training them. But her family insists and her reluctantly returns. But when a dirty, smelly, snarling girl named Macy becomes her seatmate Andrea is sure that school couldn't get any worse. Macy is terrorizing the entire school and spews hate every second. The entire school is terrified of her. But Andrea's sister keeps urging her to try to befriend Macy. Andrea learns that sticking up for the defenseless and the unloved can be challenging, but rewarding.
I'm not usually fond of books written for teenagers. But this one surprised me. It was entertaining, well written, and had some great lessons on faith, trust, and Christ-like love. The suspense and drama fit with the plot and was a good level for the intended age group. The author really brought home the importance of family. It's definitely a book I'll be keeping for my daughter to read when she's a little older. My only complaint was that I felt like I was missing something despite this being book 1. It felt like I'd jumped into the middle of the series with references to things that had happened in the past. It can be read as a stand-alone, but I would recommend getting the previous books first.
I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
I'm not usually fond of books written for teenagers. But this one surprised me. It was entertaining, well written, and had some great lessons on faith, trust, and Christ-like love. The suspense and drama fit with the plot and was a good level for the intended age group. The author really brought home the importance of family. It's definitely a book I'll be keeping for my daughter to read when she's a little older. My only complaint was that I felt like I was missing something despite this being book 1. It felt like I'd jumped into the middle of the series with references to things that had happened in the past. It can be read as a stand-alone, but I would recommend getting the previous books first.
I received this book free of charge from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
April 20, 2015
"Thick as Thieves" by Susan K. Marlow is the first book in the "Circle C Milestones Series" It is a young adult historical fiction, and is easy to read and understand.
Marlow has written several other historical fiction books using the same main character, Andrea (Andi) and Circle C Ranch. The story was easy to follow, even without reading the other books. Andi is a fourteen year old, the youngest child of a close knit, well off family, in 1882. She seems to get herself into many scrapes, some of her own causing, some caused by others. The new girl at school, tough as nails, Macy, is a rough, tough, stinky girl. And guess who has to sit next to her... Everyone tells Andi she must be her friend, but Andi struggles with seeing Macy as God sees her. Andi loves her horses and wishes she could drop out of school and spend all her time with them, especially after Macy arrives in town.
"Thick as Thieves" has cattle rustlers, horse thieves, and a mystery. It is clean and fresh. The main characters have integrity and common sense. This is a well written story, and will be well loved by tweens that enjoy horses, tomboys and a mystery. I am definitely not a tween, and I enjoyed it!
I received this book from The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
Marlow has written several other historical fiction books using the same main character, Andrea (Andi) and Circle C Ranch. The story was easy to follow, even without reading the other books. Andi is a fourteen year old, the youngest child of a close knit, well off family, in 1882. She seems to get herself into many scrapes, some of her own causing, some caused by others. The new girl at school, tough as nails, Macy, is a rough, tough, stinky girl. And guess who has to sit next to her... Everyone tells Andi she must be her friend, but Andi struggles with seeing Macy as God sees her. Andi loves her horses and wishes she could drop out of school and spend all her time with them, especially after Macy arrives in town.
"Thick as Thieves" has cattle rustlers, horse thieves, and a mystery. It is clean and fresh. The main characters have integrity and common sense. This is a well written story, and will be well loved by tweens that enjoy horses, tomboys and a mystery. I am definitely not a tween, and I enjoyed it!
I received this book from The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
May 5, 2015
It is wonderful when an author is able to come up with enough ideas to write a series of book, which take a character, from a young age to the age of eighteen.
Susan K Marlow has done that with her character, Andrea Carter, in the new series, Circle C Milestones. I have not read many of the Andrea Carter books, but I thought Thick as Thieves was perfect for young adults.
I enjoy going to libraries and looking at the sections dedicated to new books. I am almost always disappointed when I look at the books for young adults. These books are usually about subjects that even I do not want to read, like witches, vampires, and promiscuity. Very rarely are there books that are Christian based, which is why this book was so refreshing and memorable. Marlow did not leave out any mystery and intrigue, which would interest teens, and so this book should be on all shelves.
I would highly recommend this book and series to anyone who enjoys good quality Christian fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Susan K. Marlow and Kregel Publications in return for my opinions.
Susan K Marlow has done that with her character, Andrea Carter, in the new series, Circle C Milestones. I have not read many of the Andrea Carter books, but I thought Thick as Thieves was perfect for young adults.
I enjoy going to libraries and looking at the sections dedicated to new books. I am almost always disappointed when I look at the books for young adults. These books are usually about subjects that even I do not want to read, like witches, vampires, and promiscuity. Very rarely are there books that are Christian based, which is why this book was so refreshing and memorable. Marlow did not leave out any mystery and intrigue, which would interest teens, and so this book should be on all shelves.
I would highly recommend this book and series to anyone who enjoys good quality Christian fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Susan K. Marlow and Kregel Publications in return for my opinions.
October 10, 2015
Thick as Thieves by author Susan K. Marlow is an action, Western story for young, middle school girls. It is book one in the Circle C Milestones series but not the first by the author. She has written two other Circle C series for girls. Even though I haven't head them, I was able to easily pick up this book and follow the story without feeling lost.
The book begins with Andrea (Andi) Carter's horse Taffy about to give birth. There is a twist with the birth that sets things off in this book. This book has surprises, bullies, cattle rustlers, heartache, family problems, domestic violence with siblings, mystery, friendship, faith, and laughter. Andi is a feisty, lovable young woman that preteen and teen girls will want to be, befriend, and love. They will quickly become emotionally invested in this book which provides some good life lessons. Bible verses are found throughout the book. It was a delightful read and hard to put down by this much older than middle school girl.
I rated this 5 out of 5 stars. I would recommend it to girls without hesitation. A copy was provided by a The Book Club Network for my honest opinion.
The book begins with Andrea (Andi) Carter's horse Taffy about to give birth. There is a twist with the birth that sets things off in this book. This book has surprises, bullies, cattle rustlers, heartache, family problems, domestic violence with siblings, mystery, friendship, faith, and laughter. Andi is a feisty, lovable young woman that preteen and teen girls will want to be, befriend, and love. They will quickly become emotionally invested in this book which provides some good life lessons. Bible verses are found throughout the book. It was a delightful read and hard to put down by this much older than middle school girl.
I rated this 5 out of 5 stars. I would recommend it to girls without hesitation. A copy was provided by a The Book Club Network for my honest opinion.
April 27, 2015
I really liked this novel for youth. There is plenty of action to keep their attention. (It kept the attention of this senior citizen.) There are great characters too. Andi is a younger sister of great brothers running a cattle and horse ranch in the 1880s. She loves horses and would rather love her new colts than go to school. And she struggles with the crude new girl assigned to the school seat next to hers. This new girl is rough on the surface but underneath, well you have to read the book. She's got some mean older brothers and a terrible home life. This book has great lessons about how we treat others, even when they are not nice to us.
I know this is part of a series but this is the only one I've read and I thoroughly enjoyed it all by itself. This is a great book for 12-14 year old girls. Since there is so much action, boys will like it too.
See my complete review at http://bit.ly/1DsZGtr.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
I know this is part of a series but this is the only one I've read and I thoroughly enjoyed it all by itself. This is a great book for 12-14 year old girls. Since there is so much action, boys will like it too.
See my complete review at http://bit.ly/1DsZGtr.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
May 5, 2015
Andrea appears to be a normal teenager with normal teenage problems. Her family owns and runs a cattle ranch, Circle C. She wants to be out of riding her horse, Taffy, and helping her family to run the ranch. Instead she is stuck in school. To make matters worse, Macy Walker moves to town. Assigned as seat mates, Andi must deal with Macy's cruel ways. She is not sure how she will be able to go to school, care for her horse, and survive Macy.
When cattle rustlers come to the area, the Circle C becomes one of the victims. With her family dealing with the aftermath, Andi feels she has nowhere to turn and life couldn't get any worse. However, when the rustlers begin taking horses, Andi must pull up her boot straps and befriend Macy if she wants her precious Taffy and foals back.
This is a story of love and forgiveness and the pulling together of family in order to find answers. A great read for the age group intended as well as others.
I received my book from bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review.
When cattle rustlers come to the area, the Circle C becomes one of the victims. With her family dealing with the aftermath, Andi feels she has nowhere to turn and life couldn't get any worse. However, when the rustlers begin taking horses, Andi must pull up her boot straps and befriend Macy if she wants her precious Taffy and foals back.
This is a story of love and forgiveness and the pulling together of family in order to find answers. A great read for the age group intended as well as others.
I received my book from bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review.
July 13, 2015
Thick as Thieves by Susan Marlow was a good book! It starts off with Andrea’s palomino having twins. It is hard for her to go back to school because she wants to work with the colts. When she goes back to school, a new student is told to sit at her desk. Andrea, along with the entire class, feels that this new girl, Macy, is a big bully. Andrea asked the teacher if Macy could sit somewhere else but the teacher refuses. When Andrea feels like God is telling her to befriend Macy, she struggles to obey. Macy has never had a friend. Andrea uses her colts to win Macy’s friendship. Meanwhile, livestock is being stolen which causes a lot of stress at the ranch. When Andrea’s colts are stolen, Macy is the only one that can help her get the colts back. In the end, God rewards Andrea for being obedient. I enjoyed this book a lot more than I thought I would. I got this book free from Bookfun.org for my honest opinion of the book. This is a great read for someone who loves horses! I am posting this review on Amazon, Goodreads, CBD, Deeper Shopping.
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