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The Enlightenment of Bees
Rachel Linden’s newest contemporary women’s fiction story speaks to the universal struggle of what it means to live a meaningful life where the passions we have meet the needs of the world.
At 26, idealistic baker Mia West has her entire life planned out: a Craftsman cottage in Seattle, baking at The Butter Emporium, and the love of her life, her boyfriend Ethan, by her side. But when Ethan breaks up with her instead of proposing on their sixth dating anniversary (with the Tiffany blue box in his pocket), Mia’s carefully planned future crumbles.
Adrift and devastated, she determines to find new meaning in her life by helping those in need. Guided by recurring dreams about honeybees that seem to be leading her toward this new path in life, Mia joins her vivacious housemate Rosie on an around-the-world humanitarian trip funded by the reclusive billionaire, Lars Lindstrom. Along with a famous grunge rock star, an Ethiopian immigrant, and an unsettlingly attractive Hawaiian urban farmer named Kai, Mia and Rosie embark on the trip of a lifetime. From the slums of Mumbai to a Hungarian border camp during the refugee crisis, Mia’s eyes are opened and her idealistic vision is challenged as she experiences the euphoria, disillusionment, and heartbreaking reality of humanitarian work abroad.
As Mia grapples with how to make a difference in an overwhelmingly difficult world, circumstances force her to choose between the life she thought she wanted and the unexpected life she has built.
A heartfelt listen hailed as a “delight” by Debbie Macomber: Mia had her perfect life mapped out, complete with a storybook wedding. But instead of popping the question, her long-term boyfriend decides to break up with her! Now adrift, Mia joins her friend Rosie on a humanitarian trip across the globe — and discovers a life she never dreamed possible.
At 26, idealistic baker Mia West has her entire life planned out: a Craftsman cottage in Seattle, baking at The Butter Emporium, and the love of her life, her boyfriend Ethan, by her side. But when Ethan breaks up with her instead of proposing on their sixth dating anniversary (with the Tiffany blue box in his pocket), Mia’s carefully planned future crumbles.
Adrift and devastated, she determines to find new meaning in her life by helping those in need. Guided by recurring dreams about honeybees that seem to be leading her toward this new path in life, Mia joins her vivacious housemate Rosie on an around-the-world humanitarian trip funded by the reclusive billionaire, Lars Lindstrom. Along with a famous grunge rock star, an Ethiopian immigrant, and an unsettlingly attractive Hawaiian urban farmer named Kai, Mia and Rosie embark on the trip of a lifetime. From the slums of Mumbai to a Hungarian border camp during the refugee crisis, Mia’s eyes are opened and her idealistic vision is challenged as she experiences the euphoria, disillusionment, and heartbreaking reality of humanitarian work abroad.
As Mia grapples with how to make a difference in an overwhelmingly difficult world, circumstances force her to choose between the life she thought she wanted and the unexpected life she has built.
522 pages, Audiobook
First published July 1, 2019
311 people are currently reading
8849 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Linden
9 books911 followersRachel Linden is a novelist and international aid worker whose adventures in over fifty countries around the world provide excellent grist for her writing. She is the author of The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie, The Enlightenment of Bees, Becoming the Talbot Sisters, and Ascension of Larks. Currently Rachel lives with her family on a sweet little island near Seattle, WA where she enjoys creating stories about strong women facing big challenges, travel, food, and second chances at love. She promises her readers a happy, or at least very hopeful, ending and infuses each of her stories with a touch of magical realism.
To learn more about Rachel Linden, visit her at www.rachellinden.com or connect with her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authorRachellinden/ or Instagram at www.instagram.com/rachellinden_writer
To learn more about Rachel Linden, visit her at www.rachellinden.com or connect with her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authorRachellinden/ or Instagram at www.instagram.com/rachellinden_writer
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 849 reviews
July 31, 2022
A wonderful summer read that touches on some universal truths. It is hard to know how to use our gifts and make a difference in the world. Aristotle once said, " Where your talents and the needs of the world cross, there lies your vocation." As Mia pursues her dream of making a changing the world, she discovers much about herself and looks firsthand on the pain and suffering in India slums and a Hungarian refugee camp. The work Mia does on her humanitarian trip causes us all of us to reflect on how we are pursuing charity and whether we are contributing in a meaningful way. The bee motif and guidance Mia receives are most surely a reminder of God's faithfulness. This book really encouraged me!
If you like this one, be sure to check out the latest title coming out from Rachel Linden: The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie.
If you like this one, be sure to check out the latest title coming out from Rachel Linden: The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie.
July 25, 2019
*2 stars*
Wow! Most readers gave this book a 4 star rating but I had a hard time taking it seriously. One of the characters took designer clothes on a humanitarian trip. The fact that some of the characters initially thought that the trip would be a good opportunity to explore different countries seemed shallow and ridiculous. Who would expect to have the chance to visit the Taj Mahal while working to provide relief in the slums of Mumbai? The main character lied in her interview when she said she was interested in providing medical assistance which, in actuality, her only skill was baking. It was hardly surprising that she proved to be useless when her help was desperately needed to help Syrian refugees. Unfortunately the concept of the storyline failed miserably and I found myself feeling irritated throughout most of the book.
Wow! Most readers gave this book a 4 star rating but I had a hard time taking it seriously. One of the characters took designer clothes on a humanitarian trip. The fact that some of the characters initially thought that the trip would be a good opportunity to explore different countries seemed shallow and ridiculous. Who would expect to have the chance to visit the Taj Mahal while working to provide relief in the slums of Mumbai? The main character lied in her interview when she said she was interested in providing medical assistance which, in actuality, her only skill was baking. It was hardly surprising that she proved to be useless when her help was desperately needed to help Syrian refugees. Unfortunately the concept of the storyline failed miserably and I found myself feeling irritated throughout most of the book.
February 23, 2020
I was looking for something to read while waiting on my holds from the library. I picked this without reading reviews or knowing much about the story. What I found was a delightful story of self discovery and applying one's passion to make the world a better place. The author draws on her own personal experiences in bringing Mia to life.
When Mia's carefully planned life falls to pieces, she impulsively joins her best friend on a humanitarian aid trip around the world. Mia has always dreamed of doing good, invisioning herself as "St. Mia". Though the trip does not go as Mia expects, what she discovers is: "If we want to help people, we must enter into their lives, be a part of their community. That is where real change happens, person to person, day by day, when we live life together." and "Small things can change the world for good".
One of her fellow aid volunteers, having escaped his own country following the death of his parents finds healing by: "But we cannot escape our experiences." "The memories are always with us, but sometimes we can ease the way for others. That is what we must do, use our pain to build understanding and empathy, not to build walls. Then it is transformed into a thing of beauty, then our suffering has value."
I found inspiration in this story.
When Mia's carefully planned life falls to pieces, she impulsively joins her best friend on a humanitarian aid trip around the world. Mia has always dreamed of doing good, invisioning herself as "St. Mia". Though the trip does not go as Mia expects, what she discovers is: "If we want to help people, we must enter into their lives, be a part of their community. That is where real change happens, person to person, day by day, when we live life together." and "Small things can change the world for good".
One of her fellow aid volunteers, having escaped his own country following the death of his parents finds healing by: "But we cannot escape our experiences." "The memories are always with us, but sometimes we can ease the way for others. That is what we must do, use our pain to build understanding and empathy, not to build walls. Then it is transformed into a thing of beauty, then our suffering has value."
I found inspiration in this story.
did-not-finish
March 29, 2022DNF at pg. 47 / The start of Chapter 9.
Yeah, I'm not feeling this one. For multiple reasons.
Some of those reasons (some are minor but nonetheless annoying):
1.) All the baking parts and Mia stuffing her face with desserts were completely lost on me as I don’t eat sweets.
2.) I’d like to say that while being raised in Texas my whole life, I’ve never heard someone in their 20s call others “sugar” as much as Mia’s roommate does (that seems to be more of a Tennessee or one of the Carolinas’ term of endearment).
3.) There was also so many pop culture references and name dropping just in the pages I read.
4.) Mia's roommate lies to get her on the trip and Mia goes along with it.
5.) Odd references and comments (see content notes).
I don't think I'll be missing anything spectacular by making this book as DNF as other reviews have said that there is no Christian content found in this book. Which is not shocking as Thomas Nelson has been publishing more and more "clean" books than Christian fiction as of recent years. It's very disappointing.
Reading other reviews show that this book would be a major miss for me. I won't be finishing this one.
Content up to page 48:
Spiritual Content- Mia says a little pray for something to work out (more begging than praying); Mentions of Mother Teresa & Mia wanting to be like her when she was little and be called “Saint Mia”;
*Note: A couple mentions of books called the “Baker’s Bible” and “The Cake Bible”; A mention of a woman’s t-shirt saying “Kindness is Karma” with a peace sign; A mention of wanting someone with good vibes; A mention of Buddhist temples.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: 1 form of ‘dumb’, 1 ‘sucks’; Mia’s roommate lies to get her on the humanitarian trip & Mia goes along with it; A few mentions of a girl who was a mule for a drug lord & her stuffing cocaine in her push-up bra; A couple mentions of addictions & AA meetings; A mention of childhood abuse; A mention of Mia’s boyfriend being able to mix the perfect margarita; A mention of Scotch distilleries;
*Note: Mentions of pop culture, stores, brands, TV shows, & actresses (Trader Joe’s, Tiffany, Patagonia, TOMS, Ralph Lauren, Keurig, The Great British Bake Off, Baby Einstein, Casablanca, Debbie Reynolds, Paul Newman, ); Mentions of Willy Nelson, Eric Clapton, Bonnie Raitt, John Lennon, Patty Griffin, the Beatles, & songs; A few mentions of baker books & the authors; A few mentions of car brands; A mention of Starbucks; A mention of Kraft Foods; A mention of Uber.
Sexual Content- 1 barely-above-not-detailed kiss; Recalling a kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of boyfriends, dating, dates, exes, & break-ups;
*Note: A mention of a grandmother noticing a man’s muscle calves; A mention of a preserved walrus penis in a shop; A mention of Mia’s roommate volunteering to be Seattle’s tallest and sexiest elf; A mention of Mia’s roommate’s ex-boyfriend turning out to be married; A mention of a woman stuffing her push-up bra with cocaine.
Yeah, I'm not feeling this one. For multiple reasons.
Some of those reasons (some are minor but nonetheless annoying):
1.) All the baking parts and Mia stuffing her face with desserts were completely lost on me as I don’t eat sweets.
2.) I’d like to say that while being raised in Texas my whole life, I’ve never heard someone in their 20s call others “sugar” as much as Mia’s roommate does (that seems to be more of a Tennessee or one of the Carolinas’ term of endearment).
3.) There was also so many pop culture references and name dropping just in the pages I read.
4.) Mia's roommate lies to get her on the trip and Mia goes along with it.
5.) Odd references and comments (see content notes).
I don't think I'll be missing anything spectacular by making this book as DNF as other reviews have said that there is no Christian content found in this book. Which is not shocking as Thomas Nelson has been publishing more and more "clean" books than Christian fiction as of recent years. It's very disappointing.
Reading other reviews show that this book would be a major miss for me. I won't be finishing this one.
Content up to page 48:
Spiritual Content- Mia says a little pray for something to work out (more begging than praying); Mentions of Mother Teresa & Mia wanting to be like her when she was little and be called “Saint Mia”;
*Note: A couple mentions of books called the “Baker’s Bible” and “The Cake Bible”; A mention of a woman’s t-shirt saying “Kindness is Karma” with a peace sign; A mention of wanting someone with good vibes; A mention of Buddhist temples.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: 1 form of ‘dumb’, 1 ‘sucks’; Mia’s roommate lies to get her on the humanitarian trip & Mia goes along with it; A few mentions of a girl who was a mule for a drug lord & her stuffing cocaine in her push-up bra; A couple mentions of addictions & AA meetings; A mention of childhood abuse; A mention of Mia’s boyfriend being able to mix the perfect margarita; A mention of Scotch distilleries;
*Note: Mentions of pop culture, stores, brands, TV shows, & actresses (Trader Joe’s, Tiffany, Patagonia, TOMS, Ralph Lauren, Keurig, The Great British Bake Off, Baby Einstein, Casablanca, Debbie Reynolds, Paul Newman, ); Mentions of Willy Nelson, Eric Clapton, Bonnie Raitt, John Lennon, Patty Griffin, the Beatles, & songs; A few mentions of baker books & the authors; A few mentions of car brands; A mention of Starbucks; A mention of Kraft Foods; A mention of Uber.
Sexual Content- 1 barely-above-not-detailed kiss; Recalling a kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of boyfriends, dating, dates, exes, & break-ups;
*Note: A mention of a grandmother noticing a man’s muscle calves; A mention of a preserved walrus penis in a shop; A mention of Mia’s roommate volunteering to be Seattle’s tallest and sexiest elf; A mention of Mia’s roommate’s ex-boyfriend turning out to be married; A mention of a woman stuffing her push-up bra with cocaine.
July 29, 2019
OK, so I just discovered that this is considered "Christian Fiction." I didn't get much of that in the actual book, except maybe the "beatific Mia" who wanted to be "Saint Mother Teresa," and perhaps the weird humanitarian effort that Mia joined. Why was it weird? Because it was backed by this billionaire who lives on his own island somewhere in Florida, and who hosted the teams of volunteers so lavishly and honestly, kind of in bad taste for what his mission was.
It seemed almost exploitative...sending some people from privileged countries to India, Thailand, Mexico, etc., to "help out" on the ground, to "make a difference." There seemed to be quite some discontent among the volunteers, because they thought they'd be doing "more" (based on the volunteers' own definitions, without considering what the people actually wanted/needed), so it read very...selfish and kind of entitled.
And then Rosie's suitcase was lost, and the billionaire sent over a new suitcase filled with expensive designer name stuff when they were helping refugees... That's a useful example of how "off" this book was.
At one point I thought the trip would turn into some kind of reality TV show. That's how...odd it was.
It seemed almost exploitative...sending some people from privileged countries to India, Thailand, Mexico, etc., to "help out" on the ground, to "make a difference." There seemed to be quite some discontent among the volunteers, because they thought they'd be doing "more" (based on the volunteers' own definitions, without considering what the people actually wanted/needed), so it read very...selfish and kind of entitled.
And then Rosie's suitcase was lost, and the billionaire sent over a new suitcase filled with expensive designer name stuff when they were helping refugees... That's a useful example of how "off" this book was.
At one point I thought the trip would turn into some kind of reality TV show. That's how...odd it was.
June 1, 2023
I really liked the idea of this book, how to do what you love and still have a positive effect on society. Mia's love is baking but she can't imagine that as her route to making a difference in the world. After her boyfriend breaks up with her, she goes abroad with a group of charity workers to find herself. The main venue is Hungary where the group helps the many refugees coming through en route to Germany. It reminded me of our southern border problems.
What I struggled with was the execution. I felt much of the dialogue sounded more formal and scripted than would take place between friends and family. Everything Mia achieved was handed to her free of charge by others. I was also expecting more of the "bee enlightenment" and less in the romance department.
What I struggled with was the execution. I felt much of the dialogue sounded more formal and scripted than would take place between friends and family. Everything Mia achieved was handed to her free of charge by others. I was also expecting more of the "bee enlightenment" and less in the romance department.
January 7, 2020
Y’all. I wanted to like this one. I did. It has all the things you’d put in a book if you wanted to attract me as your reader: a young female protagonist who is passionate about social justice, baking, travel, self-discovery, volunteer work, a love story, even honeybees on the cover - which is what made me pick up this book in the first place and start reading, knowing nothing about it. But...I have questions.
Starting with: Has this person (the author) ever been on an actual service trip?
The protagonist, Mia, was sweet at first but devolves into a super unlikeable model of ignorance and white supremacy as she embarks on a fancy trip around the world “helping” people with a camera crew following her. She literally refers to herself as SAINT MIA in her daydreams about wearing a sari and being surrounded by brown children adoring her (seriously). But her desire to go on such a trip isn’t fueled by shareable or useful skills that she can actually offer to the people in Mumbai or any of the other exotic locales she visits, but rather her heartbreak after her boyfriend breaks up with her and she doesn’t know what to do. Brown people and their cultures are not your journey to self discovery, sis.
I just wish ANY character of color had any modicum of development rather than only the white characters being fleshed out. The brown folks are background props in her story of New Life After A Breakup - just faceless poor people she “helps” on her way toward discovering who she really is, not actual people with lives and thoughts and feelings and families. It’s almost an SNL skit about privileged kids who want to Make A Difference but have zero to bring to the table that the people they’re “helping” actually might need. Except - I realized to my horror - it’s not satirical. One volunteer on this trip lists his skills as “latte art” - seriously - and Mia is disappointed when she is given the task of making pancakes for kids instead of something more dramatically life-altering (like medical care, which she has zero training in and lied about on her application so she could go on the trip in the first place).
THIS BOOK IS ONE BIG YIKES. Poop on a page. Don’t do it. 🙈
Eventually (thank heaven) she figures out that she should be at home in Seattle opening a bakery to provide employment for immigrating women. (That’s the one part I liked, except it still reeks of white saviorism. I still wish the women had been depicted more like her partners rather than her subjects that she so kindly and benevolently rescues.) But honestly the rest is so problematic that I just can’t recommend this book.
Starting with: Has this person (the author) ever been on an actual service trip?
The protagonist, Mia, was sweet at first but devolves into a super unlikeable model of ignorance and white supremacy as she embarks on a fancy trip around the world “helping” people with a camera crew following her. She literally refers to herself as SAINT MIA in her daydreams about wearing a sari and being surrounded by brown children adoring her (seriously). But her desire to go on such a trip isn’t fueled by shareable or useful skills that she can actually offer to the people in Mumbai or any of the other exotic locales she visits, but rather her heartbreak after her boyfriend breaks up with her and she doesn’t know what to do. Brown people and their cultures are not your journey to self discovery, sis.
I just wish ANY character of color had any modicum of development rather than only the white characters being fleshed out. The brown folks are background props in her story of New Life After A Breakup - just faceless poor people she “helps” on her way toward discovering who she really is, not actual people with lives and thoughts and feelings and families. It’s almost an SNL skit about privileged kids who want to Make A Difference but have zero to bring to the table that the people they’re “helping” actually might need. Except - I realized to my horror - it’s not satirical. One volunteer on this trip lists his skills as “latte art” - seriously - and Mia is disappointed when she is given the task of making pancakes for kids instead of something more dramatically life-altering (like medical care, which she has zero training in and lied about on her application so she could go on the trip in the first place).
THIS BOOK IS ONE BIG YIKES. Poop on a page. Don’t do it. 🙈
Eventually (thank heaven) she figures out that she should be at home in Seattle opening a bakery to provide employment for immigrating women. (That’s the one part I liked, except it still reeks of white saviorism. I still wish the women had been depicted more like her partners rather than her subjects that she so kindly and benevolently rescues.) But honestly the rest is so problematic that I just can’t recommend this book.
August 13, 2019
“In a romantic adventure across the globe, The Enlightenment of Bees beautifully explores what it means to find the sweet spot in life where our greatest passions meet the world’s greatest need.”
4 Bee-utiful stars 🐝🐝🐝🐝
Encouraging and uplifting, The Enlightenment of Bees is a lighthearted summertime read about main character Mia finding the right direction for herself while helping others. And that’s what she sets out to do. In a snap, Mia, along with her friend, volunteer as aids with a global humanitarian group. It’s a great story with some romance, but also has hard hitting issues such as Hungarian refugee camps and Mumbai’s Indian slums.
The author uses current global issues vividly detailed through main character Mia’s experiences, her challenges and the changes they set within herself as an aid worker. Rachel Linden’s powerful message is pretty straightforward. Lead by your passions while making an impact in the world. As lovely a story, as the bees on its cover!
Many thanks to Thomas Nelson Publishing and Rachel Linden for this complimentary ARC via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
4 Bee-utiful stars 🐝🐝🐝🐝
Encouraging and uplifting, The Enlightenment of Bees is a lighthearted summertime read about main character Mia finding the right direction for herself while helping others. And that’s what she sets out to do. In a snap, Mia, along with her friend, volunteer as aids with a global humanitarian group. It’s a great story with some romance, but also has hard hitting issues such as Hungarian refugee camps and Mumbai’s Indian slums.
The author uses current global issues vividly detailed through main character Mia’s experiences, her challenges and the changes they set within herself as an aid worker. Rachel Linden’s powerful message is pretty straightforward. Lead by your passions while making an impact in the world. As lovely a story, as the bees on its cover!
Many thanks to Thomas Nelson Publishing and Rachel Linden for this complimentary ARC via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 2, 2022
I basically skimmed this whole book and it didn’t impress me. The writing wasn’t engaging and the story felt cliche and annoying. Sad.
It was a clean read, but there was no faith content that stood out.
It was a clean read, but there was no faith content that stood out.
July 10, 2019
“Remember, Mia, your place in this world is the space where your greatest passion meets the world’s great pain,” she says firmly. “Go now and find that place.”
I really loved this book. There are some parts that are a bit difficult to believe, like the whole Lars scenario, but overall the plot is meaningful and really made me think. I especially appreciated the parts that deal with voluntourism--which is what most humanitarian or mission trips turn out to be. They aren't lasting changes that will make a difference in the peoples' lives, they are a drop in, feed them pancakes and play soccer, and leave. The "tourist" feels good for having done something, but it's not real. I have long felt like these types of trips need to change, relationships with people in other countries need to change. Getting off my soapbox for now but this book brought out a lot of issues with this...
This book is a great combination of topics that resonated with me as a reader. I hope that readers interested in a book with a deeper message about things we don't often think about will pick this one up.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
I really loved this book. There are some parts that are a bit difficult to believe, like the whole Lars scenario, but overall the plot is meaningful and really made me think. I especially appreciated the parts that deal with voluntourism--which is what most humanitarian or mission trips turn out to be. They aren't lasting changes that will make a difference in the peoples' lives, they are a drop in, feed them pancakes and play soccer, and leave. The "tourist" feels good for having done something, but it's not real. I have long felt like these types of trips need to change, relationships with people in other countries need to change. Getting off my soapbox for now but this book brought out a lot of issues with this...
This book is a great combination of topics that resonated with me as a reader. I hope that readers interested in a book with a deeper message about things we don't often think about will pick this one up.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
May 21, 2019
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
So let me say it’s an enjoyable read. I’m really rating the book 3.5 star (i just rounded up). This book to me was like drinking a nice cup of coffee on a Sunday morning while sitting on my balcony - comforting and unhurried. The story is about Mia West and her quest in life to find meaning and purpose. Her life was where she wanted it and how she wanted - full of contentment. A man that she loves, embarking on the next chapter in their relationship and a job doing what she truly enjoys. All until he dumps her instead of proposing, she gets let go and her grandmother - the most important person in her life gets sick. Nothing like your life being turned upside down to make you rethink your childhood dreams for your future. Her childhood dream of owning her own bakery like her grandmother changed to that of being like her aunt and traveling the world on a humanitarian mission - “dream bigger”. Her friend Rosie joined an Intl humanitarian mission and Mia decided to go last minute, sure that this is what she needs. Here she meets various people, all of whom teach her something about life and herself At the end of the trip she comes back changed but uncertain of her life track - until that aha moment when she finds that place where “your greatest passion meets the greatest need” (love that quote).
The title of the book stems from her relationship with bees - as they are divine messengers guiding Mia in her dreams and in life (heck me i’d run the other way from bees lol)
All in all, it’s a nice read with the ending nicely wrapped up and everyone finding their place. - which as it turns out for Mia, was always right there in front of her - her passion and her gift to making lives better . I hope you enjoy reading it - for this moments when a nice story is what you crave with a sweet ending
So let me say it’s an enjoyable read. I’m really rating the book 3.5 star (i just rounded up). This book to me was like drinking a nice cup of coffee on a Sunday morning while sitting on my balcony - comforting and unhurried. The story is about Mia West and her quest in life to find meaning and purpose. Her life was where she wanted it and how she wanted - full of contentment. A man that she loves, embarking on the next chapter in their relationship and a job doing what she truly enjoys. All until he dumps her instead of proposing, she gets let go and her grandmother - the most important person in her life gets sick. Nothing like your life being turned upside down to make you rethink your childhood dreams for your future. Her childhood dream of owning her own bakery like her grandmother changed to that of being like her aunt and traveling the world on a humanitarian mission - “dream bigger”. Her friend Rosie joined an Intl humanitarian mission and Mia decided to go last minute, sure that this is what she needs. Here she meets various people, all of whom teach her something about life and herself At the end of the trip she comes back changed but uncertain of her life track - until that aha moment when she finds that place where “your greatest passion meets the greatest need” (love that quote).
The title of the book stems from her relationship with bees - as they are divine messengers guiding Mia in her dreams and in life (heck me i’d run the other way from bees lol)
All in all, it’s a nice read with the ending nicely wrapped up and everyone finding their place. - which as it turns out for Mia, was always right there in front of her - her passion and her gift to making lives better . I hope you enjoy reading it - for this moments when a nice story is what you crave with a sweet ending
August 1, 2019
The Enlightenment of Bees is the story of a girl whose perfect life and all expectations are flipped upside down and she goes on a journey to find herself and her new place in the world. While this storyline has been done a million times, the uniqueness in this book is what Mia does next. She joins a humanitarian trip around the world to do good for those less fortunate. It is a beautiful and insightful look at human relations, poverty, love and loss, and chasing your dreams.
You can tell that the author has some personal experience dealing with these humanitarian crises and locals. The settings are wonderfully done and you feel like you're there with the characters. This was probably my favorite part of the story. Although I wish they could have travelled to more locations, I loved where they ended up but hated how it ended so quickly!
Linden uses this book to look into the current refugee crisis in Europe with those trying to escape terror and unrest in the Middle East. This was the first fiction book I have read that really tackled this concept and I flew through the pages trying to devour it all. It was truly eye opening and it gave me a new perspective on these current issues.
My main problem with this book and the reason I can't give it 5 stars (because I really loved the concept and the story) is I couldn't like the main character. She was such a typical 20 something girl who doesn't realize how beautiful she is and everyone seems to just love. It also had my biggest pet peeve that books can have - the whole "I'm not like other girls." Gah. We get it, you're quirky and don't like trends therefore you're so much better than all the other girls out there. I am so over this technique for writing female leads!!! I almost dnf early on when Mia was being introduced but I am glad I didn't. The rest of the story makes up for her and there is so much more to this than just a love/finding yourself story.
You can tell that the author has some personal experience dealing with these humanitarian crises and locals. The settings are wonderfully done and you feel like you're there with the characters. This was probably my favorite part of the story. Although I wish they could have travelled to more locations, I loved where they ended up but hated how it ended so quickly!
Linden uses this book to look into the current refugee crisis in Europe with those trying to escape terror and unrest in the Middle East. This was the first fiction book I have read that really tackled this concept and I flew through the pages trying to devour it all. It was truly eye opening and it gave me a new perspective on these current issues.
My main problem with this book and the reason I can't give it 5 stars (because I really loved the concept and the story) is I couldn't like the main character. She was such a typical 20 something girl who doesn't realize how beautiful she is and everyone seems to just love. It also had my biggest pet peeve that books can have - the whole "I'm not like other girls." Gah. We get it, you're quirky and don't like trends therefore you're so much better than all the other girls out there. I am so over this technique for writing female leads!!! I almost dnf early on when Mia was being introduced but I am glad I didn't. The rest of the story makes up for her and there is so much more to this than just a love/finding yourself story.
April 25, 2025
The Enlightenment of Bees by Rachel Linden is an excellent novel. Not what i was expecting
April 16, 2019
I received a digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed "The Enlightenment of Bees" - a coming-of-age story rooted in the desire to live a life of service.
The plot follows Mia, a young woman from Seattle who embarks on a global humanitarian service trip after the life she had planned falls apart. One of the things I liked most about the book was the way it portrayed the service trip. The characters were very aware that they weren't changing the world with their service trip, but were doing the best they could with the resources they had. I also appreciated the book's analysis on how to use wealth for global service.
The book focuses a lot on the global refugee crisis, and I thought this angle seemed well-researched, which I appreciated. The author's descriptions of cities and cultures seemed authentic and mindful of different world cultures, and as someone who loves travel I enjoyed reading them.
I also really liked Mia as a character. I thought she was well-drawn and seemed genuine. The other characters weren't quite as fleshed out, and a few aspects of their personalities seemed too far-fetched or unrealistic; however, as a whole, the characters worked well together to achieve the book's purpose. I came away from the book inspired, particularly by the line "your purpose is where your greatest passion meets the world's greatest pain."
I enjoyed "The Enlightenment of Bees" - a coming-of-age story rooted in the desire to live a life of service.
The plot follows Mia, a young woman from Seattle who embarks on a global humanitarian service trip after the life she had planned falls apart. One of the things I liked most about the book was the way it portrayed the service trip. The characters were very aware that they weren't changing the world with their service trip, but were doing the best they could with the resources they had. I also appreciated the book's analysis on how to use wealth for global service.
The book focuses a lot on the global refugee crisis, and I thought this angle seemed well-researched, which I appreciated. The author's descriptions of cities and cultures seemed authentic and mindful of different world cultures, and as someone who loves travel I enjoyed reading them.
I also really liked Mia as a character. I thought she was well-drawn and seemed genuine. The other characters weren't quite as fleshed out, and a few aspects of their personalities seemed too far-fetched or unrealistic; however, as a whole, the characters worked well together to achieve the book's purpose. I came away from the book inspired, particularly by the line "your purpose is where your greatest passion meets the world's greatest pain."
August 31, 2019
Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Just Read Tours for a copy of The Enlightenment of Bees by Rachel Linden. Please see my bio for the book tour landing page as well as the purchase link if you are interested! Synopsis of the book will be included in the comments.
The Enlightenment of Bees is a cute read. Following Mia West, within the first few chapters of the book she is dumped by her long term boyfriend, let go from her job, and finds out her Nana has cancer. Set adrift in her own life, she gets the opportunity to finally act on her own dreams, to travel and help other people. Joining a humanitarian group at the last moment she is soon in Indian slums and then in a refugee camp in Hungary. Will she finally find what she is meant to do with her life?
I liked this book, especially the refugee camp scenes. There we get what felt like a real look into the crisis over in Europe and that isn’t what I expected from this book when I started. Mia started out as a little too optimistic for my tastes, she is a little too give up her dreams for others. But she really discovers who she is and what she wants by the end. I like how organically she lost her innocent look at life and grew into herself away from her boyfriend and what he wanted.
The Enlightenment of Bees was full of interesting characters and settings and I loved the descriptions of baking and recommend you get some cake before you start this one because you’ll definitely be craving it by the end!
The Enlightenment of Bees is a cute read. Following Mia West, within the first few chapters of the book she is dumped by her long term boyfriend, let go from her job, and finds out her Nana has cancer. Set adrift in her own life, she gets the opportunity to finally act on her own dreams, to travel and help other people. Joining a humanitarian group at the last moment she is soon in Indian slums and then in a refugee camp in Hungary. Will she finally find what she is meant to do with her life?
I liked this book, especially the refugee camp scenes. There we get what felt like a real look into the crisis over in Europe and that isn’t what I expected from this book when I started. Mia started out as a little too optimistic for my tastes, she is a little too give up her dreams for others. But she really discovers who she is and what she wants by the end. I like how organically she lost her innocent look at life and grew into herself away from her boyfriend and what he wanted.
The Enlightenment of Bees was full of interesting characters and settings and I loved the descriptions of baking and recommend you get some cake before you start this one because you’ll definitely be craving it by the end!
April 2, 2022
You'll crave authentic, cardamom rich, sweet and spicy chai tea, lavender honey and need some tissue for your eyes with this one. But I have to warn you...
It will sting reading this book.
I have so many conflicted and mixed feelings about this novel. I like it and I don't for various reasons. Some obvious, some not so much.
For the negative reasons:
New age practices, works-based religion, and utter lack of any true Christianity is prevalent. Especially given such depravity, these situations would have been ideal moments to present faith and the hope found in Jesus.
I see now what the title is referring to and was something I wish I knew before picking up this book.
Though a decent story and published by Thomas Nelson, this is NOT a Christian novel. So be careful going into ithe book with that expectation. I will be leery of books published by them going forward.
For the positives reason:
Once I realized the book what not Christian, I was able to glean some good from it.
There was a heart to serve, though vain in the beginning, which ended up being our main character's arc and development.
It dealt with some heavy life issues and made me feel as though I was there. Ukraine is facing similar moments like the book right now and it made feel as if I was on the border of Poland. It also made me reflect on what I can do for humanity, which is always good to help those in need. It stirred in me a heart to serve more for the Lord because of all He has done for me. Not in works, but in love.
It also had a varied cast of characters. I loved how each approached humanitarian work and the real life each person brought to the story as a whole. We are all just broken people, helping broken people in the end. That is hard to write and I appreciated as an author.
This book gave me nostalgia, looking back on a restaurant in Manitoba called the Feast where Christa Brunea-Guenther, who was apart of the Wall Of Chef's show, built her fame and restaurant by serving the indigenous community.
For these things, I ended up giving the book 3 stars as a non-christian novel.
It will sting reading this book.
I have so many conflicted and mixed feelings about this novel. I like it and I don't for various reasons. Some obvious, some not so much.
For the negative reasons:
New age practices, works-based religion, and utter lack of any true Christianity is prevalent. Especially given such depravity, these situations would have been ideal moments to present faith and the hope found in Jesus.
I see now what the title is referring to and was something I wish I knew before picking up this book.
Though a decent story and published by Thomas Nelson, this is NOT a Christian novel. So be careful going into ithe book with that expectation. I will be leery of books published by them going forward.
For the positives reason:
Once I realized the book what not Christian, I was able to glean some good from it.
There was a heart to serve, though vain in the beginning, which ended up being our main character's arc and development.
It dealt with some heavy life issues and made me feel as though I was there. Ukraine is facing similar moments like the book right now and it made feel as if I was on the border of Poland. It also made me reflect on what I can do for humanity, which is always good to help those in need. It stirred in me a heart to serve more for the Lord because of all He has done for me. Not in works, but in love.
It also had a varied cast of characters. I loved how each approached humanitarian work and the real life each person brought to the story as a whole. We are all just broken people, helping broken people in the end. That is hard to write and I appreciated as an author.
This book gave me nostalgia, looking back on a restaurant in Manitoba called the Feast where Christa Brunea-Guenther, who was apart of the Wall Of Chef's show, built her fame and restaurant by serving the indigenous community.
For these things, I ended up giving the book 3 stars as a non-christian novel.
March 20, 2022
The Enlightenment of Bees was a good story, well written with interesting characters but I was disappointed with the faith content.
As Thomas Nelson published this book, I thought it would be Christian fiction. A few side characters have genuine Christian faith. However, the main character never talked about God, went to church, read the Bible or prayed, even when facing difficult situations or choices.
I enjoyed the dilemmas that the main character faced and also the travel. I felt like the author did a good job portraying the difficulties surrounding helping people in foreign countries. I also enjoyed seeing the character’s internal journey throughout the book.
Overall this was a good story, but it had the potential to be amazing if the faith content had been more overtly Christian.
As Thomas Nelson published this book, I thought it would be Christian fiction. A few side characters have genuine Christian faith. However, the main character never talked about God, went to church, read the Bible or prayed, even when facing difficult situations or choices.
I enjoyed the dilemmas that the main character faced and also the travel. I felt like the author did a good job portraying the difficulties surrounding helping people in foreign countries. I also enjoyed seeing the character’s internal journey throughout the book.
Overall this was a good story, but it had the potential to be amazing if the faith content had been more overtly Christian.
July 6, 2019
The Enlightenment of Bees is a heartwarming story about a young woman’s quest to find out who she is, and how she can use her skills and passion to make a difference in the world. In a matter of days, Mia loses both her boyfriend and her job, leaving her lost and confused. She embarks on a humanitarian mission that takes her to the slums of India and to a refugee camp in Hungary. The author did a wonderful job of placing me in those places, feeling the despair, the poverty, the distress. Mia was a fascinating character, and watching her grow throughout her journey touched my heart.
November 29, 2025
This author is fairly new to me. I plan to read her to zero. Her books are so engaging, great life lessons and a pure joy to read. Outstanding narration. Highly recommend. Enjoy!
December 4, 2019
I have decided after reading all of Linden's books to date that her work always shows the following a.) a brilliantly authentic atmospheric trip to the settings she clearly knows wells and that feature so well under her competent pen, b.) a heart for adventures that take us beyond our comfort zones and open our hearts and challenge us to step out of our worlds, c.) clear and alluring prose that frames stories that foster two types of romance: that of the characters and the new worlds and settings around them, and a sly, wonderful romance that slowly blooms against beautiful descriptions.
In The Enlightenment of Bees, Linden ensures that her wonderful scenery that sweeps the reader is countered by the social justice issues a now hallmark undercurrent that strengthens and grounds her fiction.
This is the perfect book to lose yourself in and add to your literary passport.
In The Enlightenment of Bees, Linden ensures that her wonderful scenery that sweeps the reader is countered by the social justice issues a now hallmark undercurrent that strengthens and grounds her fiction.
This is the perfect book to lose yourself in and add to your literary passport.
December 16, 2019
I didn’t like this as much as I thought I would. It’s got nice character development, especially with the heroine, Mia. Even the supporting characters are detailed enough and nuanced enough to feel real. I liked that. It brings to light many different social issues around the world, including poverty and the refugee crisis. I have cared about issues like those for a long time, so I was happy to see them addressed in the story. However, the main character was so unlikeable at times that I felt like she undercut the message. She visits poor children in a foreign country, and she somehow manages to make it all about her, when it should be all about them. She doesn’t seem to think about the people she’s helping—she’s thinking about how wonderful she is. She has a sort of savior complex. And when she learns that it’s beyond her ability to save everyone and be this big hero that she’s envisioned, she seriously considers just giving up, and not bothering to do even the little bit of good that she can. Perhaps this attitude is not uncommon, but it made it diffficult for me to connect to the character. In this book’s defense, I think it was done on purpose. Mia doesn’t give up, and she matures throughout the story as she comes to understand, so there’s character growth. Here, again, the secondary characters come to the rescue, and the author does a good job of showing how the main character’s relationships with the individuals she is trying to help are a major factor in her ultimate transformation. Once she takes time to get to know people, she gets a little more humble about her work. Even so, it was difficult to read. I kept reminding myself, “It’s okay, she’s young, she’s too young to understand,” except she isn’t. She’s 26, which is young, I admit, but she’s a rather immature 26 at that. I felt that parts of the book were repetitive, and the writing might have been tighter. The ending is a little pat, and all the loose ends are nicely tied up, and the refugees with whom she had lost all contact and who were in the midst of violent upheaval even manage to dash off a postcard to let her know that they made it out safe. It’s a little too convenient, and I can’t decide how I feel about that. One the one hand, it’s important for Mia to realize she made a difference. On the other hand, in real life, situations like theirs often end tragically, and this book seemed way too serious in tone and content for such a slapdash happy ending. This book raises interesting issues, and the premise is nice, but I think it should have been done better.
August 20, 2020
So disappointed in the leftist, liberal message of this book that preached humanism and definitely not Jesus. Makes me sad that Thomas Nelson published this. The story had so many opportunities to show how Jesus can and will work in even the worst of situations and not once was He mentioned. Although I enjoyed the author’s writing style, I cannot agree with her viewpoint and thus will not be reading any more of her books.
August 7, 2019
Wow! This was quite the adventurous ride. Mostly. I understood all too well all the indescribable feelings of visiting another culture for the first time and being faced with all the needs you aren’t certain how to handle. Listening to this audiobook just took me immediately back to my first foray into a different country and culture from my own and every bit of wonder and uncertainty I felt. Mia's emotions as she tried to understand just what this adventure was doing to her insides completely resonated with me! I loved, especially, all the bits once the group arrived at the refugee camp. Those chapters made me fully believe that Ms. Linden has experienced such herself because there was this atmospheric and real quality to all the confusion, the uneasiness felt among everyone there--helpers and refugees alike, and the sheer necessity to do all that you can to help those in need. The way this experience changes every single person in the group and the way they do and don't handle that change well...it all spoke to my heart and my own personal experiences.
I will have to say that there was far too many descriptions of the drinks and outfits of the characters. That bit pretty much got old quick and pulled me away from my investment in the story a few times. But that mostly settled down once the overseas adventure began for which I was grateful. Overall, I was able to overlook those bits and would still highly recommend this story for those willing to dig a little deeper into the world and catch a glimpse of life outside of your comfort zone.
I will have to say that there was far too many descriptions of the drinks and outfits of the characters. That bit pretty much got old quick and pulled me away from my investment in the story a few times. But that mostly settled down once the overseas adventure began for which I was grateful. Overall, I was able to overlook those bits and would still highly recommend this story for those willing to dig a little deeper into the world and catch a glimpse of life outside of your comfort zone.
August 21, 2025
Mia was very hard to like. She's naive and whiny and adrift. Like Herbie the elf who wants to be a dentist, Mia is a baker who wants to be Saint Mia. No, really, her life's aspiration is to be known as someone who is a mix of her aunt, a humanitarian dentist, and Mother Theresa. Even after she realizes that being a humanitarian is a lot more work and a lot dirtier than the photos in National Geographic, she still isn't very endearing.
The title is very misleading. The bees mostly live in her dreams - until the end when the bees are allowed to dance on the baked goods that will be served to the public. 🤢
The title is very misleading. The bees mostly live in her dreams - until the end when the bees are allowed to dance on the baked goods that will be served to the public. 🤢
August 9, 2019
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion
I couldn't finish this book. It just really struck me the wrong way. It's published by Thomas Nelson that has published some of my favorite inspirational fiction authors. Mia struck me as very naive and privileged. She could just quit her job and hope that her boyfriend of six years would propose to her. She could lie to get her way onto the humanitarian trip. She was sipping wine and sidecars. Oh or lose your suitcase no problem the millionaire that's funding the trip will send you a suitcase full of designer clothes while you are in these third world countries. When I traveled to third world counties to do mission work, my clothes were all purchased from Goodwill.
The book was just so off. I read all types of fiction but for what it is worth I would not classify this as a "Christian" fiction book. I get maybe going for the whole new age Christian but that's not for me.
I really really really really wanted to like this book but it ended up not being for me. Maybe I'll to pick it back up in a few months.
I couldn't finish this book. It just really struck me the wrong way. It's published by Thomas Nelson that has published some of my favorite inspirational fiction authors. Mia struck me as very naive and privileged. She could just quit her job and hope that her boyfriend of six years would propose to her. She could lie to get her way onto the humanitarian trip. She was sipping wine and sidecars. Oh or lose your suitcase no problem the millionaire that's funding the trip will send you a suitcase full of designer clothes while you are in these third world countries. When I traveled to third world counties to do mission work, my clothes were all purchased from Goodwill.
The book was just so off. I read all types of fiction but for what it is worth I would not classify this as a "Christian" fiction book. I get maybe going for the whole new age Christian but that's not for me.
I really really really really wanted to like this book but it ended up not being for me. Maybe I'll to pick it back up in a few months.
September 7, 2019
I’m really not sure how to start this review. There were so many content things that I really rooted for in this book. The spotlight on voluntourism and even more so on the refugee crisis. I really think more people (I’m looking at us on the privileged side of the world) need to put ourselves in the shoes of those living in poverty and fleeing for their lives so we can make more Christ-like decisions in our everyday life as we answer the question of who our neighbor is and how God is calling us to help them. Kudos for Rachel Linden for shining a light on the things we too often uncomfortably shove back into the shadows.
July 22, 2019
3.5/5 stars
***I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I enjoyed this light romance that focused on the main character's life and personal choices while she ventured on a humanitarian trip around the world.
Synopsis
Mia thinks she has her life all figured out and it's amazing. All that changes in one day when she's dumped by her boyfriend of six years and loses her job she loves at the local bakery. Mia's best friend, Rosie, convinces her to go with her and take someone's place on a last minute humanitarian trip around the world. Along the way she finds out things aren't always what they seem including what she thought her life should look like.
Pacing & Points of View
The overall pacing of this story was average and the story was told entirely from Mia's point of view. I read it in a few days and believe I could have easily read it in a day without distractions.
Characters
I really enjoyed reading Mia's story about self discovery and her journey throughout the world. There were a few side stories and characters that I wasn't completely interested in and I felt there was a little too much time spent wasted on the ex-boyfriend. I would have loved if those words could have been better used for more Mia and Kai scenes! The light soft romance between Mia and Kai were my favorite parts.
Overall
Overall, I really liked this drama filled, world traveling, and non-steamy sweet romance. It's a good read if you're looking for a lighter romance with all the feels and reminiscent of other stories of self discovery.
Thank you so much to NetGalley & the publisher Thomas Nelson for allowing me the opportunity to read this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
***I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I enjoyed this light romance that focused on the main character's life and personal choices while she ventured on a humanitarian trip around the world.
Synopsis
Mia thinks she has her life all figured out and it's amazing. All that changes in one day when she's dumped by her boyfriend of six years and loses her job she loves at the local bakery. Mia's best friend, Rosie, convinces her to go with her and take someone's place on a last minute humanitarian trip around the world. Along the way she finds out things aren't always what they seem including what she thought her life should look like.
Pacing & Points of View
The overall pacing of this story was average and the story was told entirely from Mia's point of view. I read it in a few days and believe I could have easily read it in a day without distractions.
Characters
I really enjoyed reading Mia's story about self discovery and her journey throughout the world. There were a few side stories and characters that I wasn't completely interested in and I felt there was a little too much time spent wasted on the ex-boyfriend. I would have loved if those words could have been better used for more Mia and Kai scenes! The light soft romance between Mia and Kai were my favorite parts.
Overall
Overall, I really liked this drama filled, world traveling, and non-steamy sweet romance. It's a good read if you're looking for a lighter romance with all the feels and reminiscent of other stories of self discovery.
Thank you so much to NetGalley & the publisher Thomas Nelson for allowing me the opportunity to read this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2019
~4.5 stars~ I find myself in a slightly unusual position as I begin this review: I can tell you I was drawn into this story from the beginning, but I’m not sure I can tell you exactly why. This is my third book by Rachel Linden, and I’ve found that her prose is always an effortless read, but there was something about Mia’s story that grabbed me in a way Linden’s previous two books didn’t. That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy her previous two books, because I did. But there was something about this story that I found more engaging. Something I can’t quite put my finger on. See my dilemma?
In many ways, this is a coming-of-age story, although Mia’s a little older than your average coming-of-age protagonist. She’s always wanted to find a way to make a difference in the world, but how do you do that when baking is the only real skill you have to offer? I found my attention wholly captured as Mia embarked on her humanitarian trip, partly because Linden recreates the sensory delights (or undelights, as the case may be!) of Mia’s travels in vivid detail, but also because the trip was so different than Mia expected. In fact, the answer to the question “How can I make a meaningful difference?” seemed to be more elusive than ever just when it should have been coming into focus.
Perhaps the key to this story’s engagement for me was simply that I was as clueless as Mia how her story would end. Or perhaps it was the fact that there is something uniquely satisfying about the way disappointment and adversity can tumble us to a place we would never have thought to look for otherwise. Whatever the reason, I found it difficult to put this story down until I’d reached the last page.
If you enjoy women’s fiction, especially with an international flavour, this is definitely worth picking up.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
In many ways, this is a coming-of-age story, although Mia’s a little older than your average coming-of-age protagonist. She’s always wanted to find a way to make a difference in the world, but how do you do that when baking is the only real skill you have to offer? I found my attention wholly captured as Mia embarked on her humanitarian trip, partly because Linden recreates the sensory delights (or undelights, as the case may be!) of Mia’s travels in vivid detail, but also because the trip was so different than Mia expected. In fact, the answer to the question “How can I make a meaningful difference?” seemed to be more elusive than ever just when it should have been coming into focus.
Perhaps the key to this story’s engagement for me was simply that I was as clueless as Mia how her story would end. Or perhaps it was the fact that there is something uniquely satisfying about the way disappointment and adversity can tumble us to a place we would never have thought to look for otherwise. Whatever the reason, I found it difficult to put this story down until I’d reached the last page.
If you enjoy women’s fiction, especially with an international flavour, this is definitely worth picking up.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
July 31, 2019
As soon as I read the premise for this book I was instantly anxious to give it a read. It looked like it was going to be a shocking, life-altering trip for the characters. I'm really sad to say that I didn't love it as much as I was hoping or expecting, but I know that there are others who fully enjoyed it so I recommend checking out their reviews as well.
I was surprised to see it written in the present tense. I didn't think it would bother me that much but it did. I also struggled with the fact that I didn't seem to like or connect with any of the characters. It felt more like a group of spoiled millenials on a (PAID) spring break trip with a little community service thrown in instead of a true humanitarian effort. The source of their funding made it more of a vacation than an eye-opening experience to how the other half of the world lives. I didn't really see anyone taking their trip very seriously. I expected what the characters saw and experienced to hit them at the deepest level of their beings and cause a radical change in how they saw the world. I was hoping that missions would be a part of the book as well but instead I only seemed to witness Mia referring to herself as "Saint Mia" after idolizing Mother Theresa in her youth. It just felt like there were too many missed opportunities in this read and it only seemed to frustrate me more the further I got into it. The characters were too self-serving from cover to cover, and I didn't see anything to really set this apart as Christian Fiction. I really, truly hate sharing negative reviews, but I just couldn't make myself love this one no matter how hard I tried.
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher through JustRead Tours. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
I was surprised to see it written in the present tense. I didn't think it would bother me that much but it did. I also struggled with the fact that I didn't seem to like or connect with any of the characters. It felt more like a group of spoiled millenials on a (PAID) spring break trip with a little community service thrown in instead of a true humanitarian effort. The source of their funding made it more of a vacation than an eye-opening experience to how the other half of the world lives. I didn't really see anyone taking their trip very seriously. I expected what the characters saw and experienced to hit them at the deepest level of their beings and cause a radical change in how they saw the world. I was hoping that missions would be a part of the book as well but instead I only seemed to witness Mia referring to herself as "Saint Mia" after idolizing Mother Theresa in her youth. It just felt like there were too many missed opportunities in this read and it only seemed to frustrate me more the further I got into it. The characters were too self-serving from cover to cover, and I didn't see anything to really set this apart as Christian Fiction. I really, truly hate sharing negative reviews, but I just couldn't make myself love this one no matter how hard I tried.
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher through JustRead Tours. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
November 12, 2020
3.5 stars. Listen, this book was an enjoyable read. It was a lovely foodie book and it made me want to bake. I enjoyed the characters and the story arc. I did not like however, how unbelievable a lot of the minor characters were. A best friend who always know the right things to say, a Indian woman who muses directly to the spoiled main character, a French doctor working at a refugee camp who listens to more whining from the main character and makes her feel like baking can change the world, Literally the perfect hot guy who is just fully available and trusting from the first moment they meet and wants her even though he has trust issues. I’m not saying I disagree that doing what you love is what everyone should do, I just find it silly that Mia went this whole trip and while she knew she was being self-centered, she just couldn’t stop. I disliked how everything in the end of the book just happened to work out, even the absolutely ridiculous stop over from aunt franny. Her family is supportive, they make their own way in life, her family farm survives thanks to her brother and sister in law who gives up her career and makes the farm majorly lucrative, Kai and Mia both get funding to start their businesses, the billionaire falls in love with her best friend, her cakes are perfect, hell even her ex is happy haha. It’s just not as believed as I’d like. A neat little bow for the woman who traveled to two countries trying to change the world and finds out that what she always needed was to listen to herself. I liked that she found herself and got what she wanted, I just think it wasn’t really believable and sort of artificial sugary. I’m glad I read this book though. It was a nice get away during a time when travel is very coveted.
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