The book itself was phenomenal. I very much disliked the characters, especially the men, but I felt as though Katherine’s development was really important and well planned throughout the novel. It had many twists and turns that kept me guessing and engaged. It was a very good read! ( )

Thank you Library Thing and Grand Canyon Press for the ARC copy of this book. It’s described as being fast paced and it is. Its well written and kept my interest. I read this book in 2 days. Highly recommend! ( )

This novel was described as fast-paced, and boy was it! I really liked the pacing because I felt like the author took the appropriate amount of time with all the really important story bits, while moving the plot along like a freight train. I liked hearing perspectives from the entire family, because each POV character had really fascinating insights to what was going on. There were sections of the book I personally did not connect with, but it was really buoyed by the beautiful prose, and again, the story moved so fast that moments I was iffy about zoomed past.
Thank you to Grand Canyon Press for this gifted copy! ( )

I really enjoyed this story and the writing behind it! I think Kellems did a wonderful job with character development and I appreciated how easy it was to see the descriptions in my mind as I read. The Poppy Field follows the story of a missionary family who moves from their comfy life in Indiana to Guatemala. Phil and his wife Katherine are excited to provide help for the locals and spread the word of God but Katherine's excitement quickly fades due to the major differences in their new way of living. Phil remains optimistic and puts too much trust in their shady Landlord, Alfonso, while Katherine and the kids adjust to their new home and lifestyle. After their home is broken into, they move into Alfonso's amazing villa were they are told they are safe with more than enough space and resources for all of them and his many employees and abundance of security. Over time, the family learns the secrets of Alfonso and his villa and things no longer seem as perfect as they once did.

My thanks to the author, Caroline Kellems, and the publisher, Grand Canyon Press, for my copy of this book. This story could definitely be made into a movie. For me personally, the character of the missionary seemed misguided, arrogant, ignorant and judgmental, probably like I sound after writing that. Perhaps my past experiences with similar religious types bled into my feelings. Loved the children of the couple. Incidentally, the book is physically attractive and well edited. Overall, very well done! ( )