Caught in the Middle - Ladies of Caldwell County 3 - by Regina Jennings

About the book:

She Wants the Freedom of the Open Plains.
He Wants the Prestige of a Successful Career.
Neither is Ready for What Comes Instead.
The train to Garber, Texas, is supposed to bring life's next victory to Nicholas Lovelace. Instead, it gets held up by robbers who are thwarted by the last person Nick ever expected--Anne Tillerton from back home in Prairie Lea.

Anne's been hiding away as a buffalo hunter. She's only in town to find their runaway cook, but the woman flees--leaving Anne with her infant son. With Nick the only person Anne knows in town, the two form an unlikely team as they try to figure out what to do with the child.

But being in town means acting and dressing for polite society--and it's not going well for Anne. Meanwhile, Nick's work is bringing new pressures, and being seen with a rough-around-the-edges woman isn't helping his reputation. Caught between their own dreams, a deepening relationship, and others' expectations, can the pair find their way to love?

My review:

I liked this story, but it was different from what I expected.  For some reason I thought it was going to be funny, maybe based on the cover, and while it had a few amusing moments, it was more serious.  I admired Anne's strength and felt for all the pain she had gone through.  It was interesting to see how Anne and Nick grew in their faith, from her having none to realizing she needed to give up control and Nick understanding that just because you obey, it doesn't mean everything will go your way.  I'm not that into politics, so I wasn't very interested in Nick's running for county commissioner and  I thought he seemed a bit naive to not realize the situation he was in until it was too late.  There were a few cute romantic moments, but it didn't seem like there was much leading up to the their being in love.  It was enjoyable watching Anne learn to take care of the boy and learn to love again.  This works well as a stand-alone.  You should check it out if you like historical fiction.

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

Telling Yourself the Truth - by William Backus & Marie Chapian

About the book:

The truth will set you free!
I dropped the ball and feel like a failure as a parent/spouse/friend, or, I lost my job; I am useless. This is negative self-talk at its finest. Negative thinking produces negative emotions, negative reactions, and negative behavior. Don’t be a victim of circumstances; self-destroying lies will keep you from achieving true happiness.

But true happiness is possible if you stop believing your lies. The authors explain Misbelief Therapy, a life-changing method, in an easy-to-understand way. Learning to deal with your thoughts, they say, is the first step to healthy thinking. They’ll help you stop the misbelief, I’m so lonely and miserable, and replace it with the truth: I’m alone, but not lonely. God loves me with an everlasting love, and I am invaluable to Him. Once you pull the negative thoughts out and replace them with the truth, you will see that you can lead a satisfying and fulfilling emotional life. Based on the Bible, Telling Yourself the Truth has continuously helped thousands of people for more than thirty years. This newest edition now includes a helpful study guide.

My review:

This is a wonderful, insightful book I think everyone needs to read!  When I decided to read it, I thought it looked interesting, but wasn't sure how much of it would really apply to me.  However, I started to realize that I need to work on some of the areas in this book.  Probably everyone engages in negative self-talk in one form or another and this book really makes you pay attention to every word you tell yourself.  Is this thought true or is it a lie?  Some of the topics are misbeliefs in depression, anger, anxiety, lack of self-control, fear of change and relationships with others.  The authors back up their claims with a lot of Scripture and take you step-by-step through realizing the misbeliefs you have, removing them and replacing them with the truth.  They also give helpful advice for how to deal with different situations.  They give a lot of examples of people so it's easy to see it played out.  These techniques have been proven to work in the author's own practice and these principles are actually from the Bible and have been around since before King Solomon. There's a wonderful study guide included with space to write in answers and thoughts.  I highly recommend this book to everyone!

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

The Kissing Bridge - Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors 3 - by Tricia Goyer

About the book:

In the third book in the Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series, award-winning author Tricia Goyer introduces a surprising new resident to West Kootenai as a young woman escapes from her stifling conservative Amish community to find a new life. Rebecca is an Amish woman whose pained past compels her to leave everything to become a nurse—abandoning her family and community. Caleb is an Amish man who is counting down the days until hunting season. At a crossroads in his own life, the excitement of hunting game is all he looks forward to. All the while he wonders what to do with the rest of his life. Even though he likes the Amish lifestyle, what good is an Amish man without faith in God?

An unexpected meeting pushes them together, and they embark with friends on a two-week-long wilderness wagon journey. Hardship tears down the flimsy walls of protection they've placed around their hearts, and as their friendship grows they open up to each other and eventually reveal their deepest secrets. While on the outside they appear to be traditional Amish people, inside they both know they are anything but that. Will their secrets pull them together or draw them apart? And will their faith in God grow? There is a bridge to cross at the end of the journey. Will true love take them across?

My review:

I found this to be an interesting story about a unique Amish situation.  I can't imagine the heartbreak of losing a sister and feeling partly to blame and I admired Rebecca's determination to do something about it.  I loved that we got to see more of Marianna and some other characters that were in previous books.  I thought the romance was very quick;  I like to see more development in relationships.  The fact that Goyer put the salvation message in her story was wonderful and I loved the discussion between Rebecca and Marianna about Jesus, leaving the Amish and faith.  There wasn't much said about Caleb's faith, though, and I wondered where he stood.  I didn't like this story as much as the first two, but still enjoyed it.  I would recommend it if you like Amish books.

I received a free copy of this book from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for an honest review.

The Third Day Graphic Novel: The Gospel of Luke 22-24 - by Alex Webb-Peploe & Andre Parker

About the book:

The first in a range of short graphic-novel-style books faithfully illustrating the unadorned text of the gospel of Luke.
It has a gritty, contemporary feel to it that is far removed from the clean, bright, graphic versions of the Bible already available for younger children.
This resource will introduce the biblical account of Easter to teens and young adults who enjoy reading illustrated graphic media.
The Third Day covers the Gospel of Luke chapters 22 to 24, the betrayal, death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ, using the HCSB.

My review:

This is a really cool graphic novel with wonderful artwork!  I love that the words are from the Bible, though they had to leave some things out.  It's geared for teens and up, which I would agree with because some of the language would be hard for children to understand, plus the book does show the crucifixion and a soldier getting his ear cut off.  I especially thought it was cool that the creators have a letter in the back explaining why they created this and that there's a code you can scan to read the text of Luke.  They also point to a website, www.christianityexplored.org, where people can go to find out more about Jesus, why He came and died, and answers to questions you have.  I definitely recommend this book for teens and up who like comic books and graphic novels!

I received a free copy of this graphic novel from Cross Focused Reviews in exchange for an honest review.

Echoes of Mercy - by Kim Vogel Sawyer

This was an intriguing historical novel about a woman who works undercover as an investigator for the Labor Commission.  When one of her coworkers dies while on a case, Caroline agrees to get a job at the same factory he worked at in order to ascertain whether his death was an accident and also to finish the investigation he started.  Dinsmore's World-Famous Chocolates Factory in Kansas employs a large number of children, which breaks Caroline's heart because she knows what it was like to work as a child rather than go to school.  She passionately wants to see the laws change so children can have an actual childhood. She's been an investigator for five years, moving from job to job, city to city, and has no time for a romance until she meets Oliver Dinsmore.

Oliver is also working undercover, but as a janitor, to learn all he can about his family's business, looking for ways to improve operations.  He thinks children working for his father get to learn a skill and that they're paid well in order to help their families survive.  He's drawn to Caroline, but also wonders why she asks so many questions.  Caroline decides to avoid him, but they're thrown together at every turn.  When she takes three children into her care, will they finally see eye to eye?  Will they be able to trust each other with the truth about their identities?

I really liked spunky Caroline and gentlemanly Oliver, along with the rest of the interesting characters.  They really came to life so I felt as if I actually knew them.  It was funny to see Oliver try to act like the common man when his cultured speech kept giving him away.  I thought Caroline should have caught on to some things faster or been more alert for having been an investigator that long.   The small amount of romance was cute, though I did wish for more.  I liked that the viewpoints switched between Caroline, Oliver, one of the children, and mean Gordon Hightower, their boss.  I was nervous just waiting for him to make his next move.  I enjoyed Sawyer's writing, but I did feel the plot moved a little slowly.  I liked the importance Caroline gives to her faith and the power of prayer.  It was also interesting learning about the working conditions for children and what life was like before minimum age requirements in the workforce.  I really enjoyed this and you should check it out if you like historical fiction!

I received this book free from Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review.

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Tracie Peterson celebrates 100 books with an iPad Mini Giveaway & A SENSIBLE ARRANGEMENT Live Webcast Event & Review!

About the book: A Lone Star Brides book.

Marty Dandridge Olson is ready to leave behind the pain of the past.

Answering an advertisement for a "Lone Star bride," she leaves her Texas ranch and heads to Denver to marry a man she doesn't know.

Jake Wythe is the man waiting for her.

Burned by love, he marries now simply to satisfy the board of Morgan Bank, which believes a man of his standing in society should be wed. Together Jake and Marty agree they are done with romance and love and will make this nothing more than a marriage of convenience.

When missing money and a collapsing economy threaten his job, Jake's yearning to return to ranching grows ever stronger, much to Marty's dismay. But a fondness has grown between them, as well, further complicating matters.

What will happen when their relationship shifts in unexpected ways . . . and dreams and secrets collide?

My review:  It's been quite a while since I'd read a Tracie Peterson book and this one made me question why it had been so long!  I enjoyed Marty's spunk but felt frustrated with her penchant for lying.  It's pointed out very clearly that her lying was wrong, however, and I really liked how it was dealt with.  There's a very strong faith message with a good discussion about why God allows suffering and evil as Marty still struggles with her husband's death and anger at God four years later.  I really liked Jake and their quirky servants, especially wise Alice.  There was some suspense as Alice is being threatened and they're not sure how to stop it.  There are also some sweet romantic moments, but I can't imagine how terrifying it would be to marry someone you'd never met!  Who knows what kind of person you could end up with?!  I enjoyed the historical elements, too, as we see what was happening with the economy and the value of silver, especially in this silver mining community.  Not all of the story's sub-plots are wrapped up neatly, but I'm sure will be in following books.  I definitely recommend this book if you like historical fiction!

I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review.

More reviews at Litfuse!

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/vlp1S

About the Author: Tracie Peterson is the award-winning author of over eighty novels, both historical and contemporary. Her avid research resonates in her stories, as seen in her bestselling Heirs of Montana, and Alaskan Quest series. Tracie and her family make their home in Montana. 

Learn more about Tracie at: www.traciepeterson.com

Welcome to the campaign launch for Tracie Peterson's 100th book! A Sensible Arrangement launches Tracie's new Texas-based series, Lone Star Brides, that’s sure to please. As a special treat, devoted fans will be able to catch a glimpse of several popular characters from previous series.

Tracie is celebrating by giving away an iPad Mini and hosting a LIVE webcast event on 4/29.

 

  One winner will receive:

• An iPad Mini
• A Sensible Arrangement by Tracie Peterson

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 29th. Winner will be announced at the A Sensible Arrangement Live Webcast Event on April 29th. Connect with Tracie for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Tracie will also be taking questions from the audience and giving away books, fun prizes, and gift certificates throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of A Sensible Arrangement and join Tracie and friends on the evening of April 29th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by signing up for a reminder. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 29th!

Destination Unknown - by Amy Clipston

About the book:

It’s senior year, and Whitney Richards is tired of the constant pressures to be perfect. When she gets a D in Calculus, her mother immediately hires a tutor, worried Whitney won’t get into the “right” college---her alma mater---with imperfect grades. Her tutor, Taylor, is a quiet, mysterious boy who is unlike anyone Whitney has met before. But Taylor’s rougher upbringing has her mother and friends discouraging any type of relationship. Tired of having to play a part for everyone else, Whitney quits the cheerleading squad that once defined her social identity, and begins spending more time with Taylor. Her mom and friends worry Whitney is making a huge mistake, and even Taylor begins to show concern for some of her choices. But for the first time, Whitney is in the driver’s seat of her life. Will she be able to find her identity---and God’s plan for her life---before she throws everything away?

My review:

I enjoyed this story written for teens, but also found it frustrating because Whitney's mom drove me crazy.  She was incredibly controlling, telling her eighteen-year-old daughter everything from what to wear to what to eat and who to be friends with.  While I don't agree with how Whitney treated her mom, I'm surprised it didn't happen sooner.  I think her mom should have given Taylor a chance and not been so shallow, but I could see how she would think he was behind Whitney's attitude shift.  It would also worry me if a girl seemed to dump her friends and change; I would wonder if the guy wasn't being controlling.  I really liked how Whitney started to question what she wanted out of life and stood up to her friends who weren't treating Taylor right.  The romance was cute, but I'm glad it started as friendship and that they got to know each other well.  I really appreciated the strong faith element, with an emphasis on the importance of prayer, knowing God is always with you, and that lying is never the way to go.  I felt the ending wrapped up a bit too neatly as it seemed her mom became understanding all of a sudden, even though Whitney really blew it.  This works well as a stand-alone, but her cousin Emily is featured prominently and a prior book was about her, which I haven't  read.  Overall, this story has a good message and an interesting story.  I think teenage girls would like this book!

I received a free ARC from Zondervan in exchange for an honest review.

Free E-Books until Monday at Midnight!

All 3 Free until Monday at midnight!

http://www.dccebooks.com/

Ends 4/19! Enter to win a Kindle HDX from @TLHigley in THE QUEEN’S HANDMAID giveaway & Review!

About the book: From the servant halls of Cleopatra's Egyptian palace to the courts of Herod the Great, Lydia will serve two queens to see prophecy fulfilled.

Alexandria, Egypt 39 BC

Orphaned at birth, Lydia was raised as a servant in Cleopatra's palace, working hard to please while keeping everyone at arm's length. She's been rejected and left with a broken heart too many times in her short life.

But then her dying mentor entrusts her with secret writings of the prophet Daniel and charges her to deliver this vital information to those watching for the promised King of Israel. Lydia must leave the nearest thing she's had to a family and flee to Jerusalem. Once in the Holy City, she attaches herself to the newly appointed king, Herod the Great, as handmaid to Queen Mariamme.

Trapped among the scheming women of Herod's political family---his sister, his wife, and their mothers---and forced to serve in the palace to protect her treasure, Lydia must deliver the scrolls before dark forces warring against the truth destroy all hope of the coming Messiah.

My review: This story really opened my eyes to how horrible it would have been to be a woman in that time period, especially a royal, servant, or slave.  To be a pawn and not have any say in who you marry or what your life will be like would have been terrible.  This story has a lot of history, which was interesting, but overshadowed the plot line about Lydia so I had a hard time emotionally connecting with her. I admired her courage and creativity and felt for her pain as she lost people close to her.  I liked the bit of romance and there was plenty of suspense as you never knew who would get killed next!  I liked the depiction of spiritual warfare.  I don't think we see that enough in novels.  It was cool to see how Cleopatra fit with the Biblical characters and I have a much greater understanding of what was happening in the world in the decades leading up to the birth of Jesus.  If you like historical fiction with an emphasis on the history, you should check it out!

I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review.   

More reviews at Litfuse!

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/uKKQP

About the Author: Tracy L. Higley started her first novel at age eight and has been hooked on writing ever since. She has authored many novels, including Garden of Madness and So Shines the Night. Tracy is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Ancient History and has traveled through Greece, Turkey, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, and Italy, researching her novels and falling into adventures. 

See Tracy's travel journals and more at: tracyhigley.com

Tracy L. Higley is celebrating the release of The Queen's Handmaid with a fun giveaway.

Retailers + Resources gave it this glowing review: "Rich in historic detail, Higley’s vivid writing brings to life the plots and intrigues that swirled through the ancient world as alliances were built and broken on the calculated schemes of power-mad monarchs." 

• A Kindle Fire HDX
• The Queen's Handmaid by Tracy L. Higley

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 19th. Winner will be announced April 21st on Tracy's blog.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to stop by Tracy's blog on April 21st to see if you won.

Ends 4/19! Win a NEW Spring Wardrobe from @TheQuiltsofLove | “Maybelle in Stitches” Giveaway & Review!

About Quilts of Love: Quilts tell stories of love and loss, hope and faith, tradition and new beginnings. The Quilts of Love series focuses on the women who quilted all of these things into their family histories. A new book releases each month and features contemporary and historical romances as well as women's fiction and the occasional light mystery. You will be drawn into the endearing characters of this series and be touched by their stories.

About the book: Maybelle Kazinzki can't sew. She was after all, the only girl in the seventh grade Home Economics class to sew the zipper in the neck hole of the A-Line dress they were supposed to make. But when she finds an unfinished quilt in the attic of her mother's house she gets the crazy idea to finish it---somehow, come heck or high water. She thinks it will help fill the lonely nights while her husband, Holden, is serving overseas during World War II.

Her recently departed mother's quilt is made from scraps of material Maybelle traces back to her mother's childhood, her grandmother's childhood and her own childhood. She tries to add one of Holden's stripes to it but the sewing is not going well and neither is her life. After receiving some harsh news, Maybelle's faith falters and she puts the quilt away and stops trusting God. But God is faithful---no matter what. And it'll take a group of neighborhood women armed with quilting needles to help Maybelle believe that.

Learn more about this book and the series at the Quilts of Love website.

My review: This story shows the interesting perspective of a woman working in the largest shipyard in the world during World War II.  I liked learning more of what life was like for the women waiting at home during the war, but who were busy themselves with unusual jobs and stretching rations.  Maybelle amused me with her lack of domestic skills, mostly because I can relate!  I admired her friend Doris's faith and how she was such an encouragement to Maybelle.  I had a hard time staying engaged with the story because of some repetition and a lot of detail of the day-to-day without much happening.  There was also a swear word that should have been cut.  I've heard of a crazy quilt before and love the idea of making one.  The music and radio shows mentioned lent authenticity to the story and I enjoyed reading about them.  If you enjoy historical fiction or quilting, you might want to check it out.

I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review.

More reviews at Litfuse!

About the Author: Joyce Magnin is the author of the Bright's Pond novels, including the award-winning The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow. A member of the Greater Philadelphia Christian Writers Fellowship, Joyce is a frequent workshop leader and the organizer of the StoryCrafters fiction group. She lives near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Learn more about Joyce at: http://joycemagnin.blogspot.com

Don’t miss the newest Quilts of Love book, Maybelle in Stitches, by Joyce Magnin. Maybelle can’t sew. But when she finds an unfinished quilt in the attic of her mother’s house, she gets the crazy idea to complete it.
Joyce is celebrating the release with a $200 Modcloth giveaway. Enter today for a chance to spruce up your spring wardrobe!

  One winner will receive:

• A $200 ModCloth.com gift card
• Scraps of Evidence by Barbara Cameron
• A Sky Without Stars by Linda S. Clare
• Maybelle in Stitches by Joyce Magnin

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 19th. Winner will be announced on April 21st on the Quilts of Love blog!

Spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK or TWITTER.

What Follows After - by Dan Walsh

About the book:

In 1962, life was simple, the world made sense, and all families were happy.
And when they weren't, everyone knew you were supposed to pretend.
For the past year, Scott and Gina Harrison have been living a lie. While they show up at family get-togethers in the same car, they've actually been separated for over a year. To keep up the charade, they've even instructed their sons, Colt and Timmy, to lie--to their grandparents, their teachers, and their friends.

Colt, for one, has had enough, so he hatches a plan. He and his little brother will run away from their Florida home, head for their aunt's house in Georgia, and refuse to come home until their parents get back together. But when things go terribly, terribly wrong, Scott and Gina must come to grips with years of neglect and mistrust in order to recover their beloved sons, their love for one another, and their marriage.

In this emotional story, bestselling author Dan Walsh takes you on a journey to rediscover the things that matter most in life--love, truth, and family. With profound insight into the heart of a hurting child, he reminds us that a time will come to look back on hard times and smile, because we'll know that what follows after . . . is not what we expected at all.

My review:

This is an enjoyable, suspenseful novel set during a very scary time in our nation's past.  I can't imagine how horrible it would be to have a child missing and for it to happen during the Cuban Missile Crisis would be even worse.  It was frustrating to see their situation not get the attention it deserved while everyone wondered if the world was going to end.  I felt for the family going through this and liked the different viewpoints, from the parents and sons to the FBI agents to the help.  It was well-written and I liked how the story wasn't just about a missing child, but about a marriage in trouble and how the whole situation caused the parents to really look at what their lives had become.  It was also interesting to see the varying levels of faith the characters displayed.  The historical details really made me feel like I was back in '62.  I would recommend this book if you like historical fiction!

I received this book free from Revell in exchange for an honest review.

Dan Walsh is the bestselling author of several books, including The Unfinished Gift, The Discovery, and The Reunion, as well as The Dance and The Promise with Gary Smalley. He has won three Carol awards, and three of his novels were finalists for RT Book Reviews Inspirational Book of the Year (2011-2013). Dan lives with his wife in the Daytona Beach area, where he's busy researching and writing his next novel. Visit www.danwalshbooks.com for more.

Free Kindle Books!

Free for kindle until 4/19!  This is the booklet.  I've heard the book is amazing!

Amazon


Free for kindle!  This looks really good!

Amazon

Free for kindle!

Amazon

Free for kindle!  I love Susan May, but haven't read this one yet.

Amazon

Free for kindle!

Amazon

Claiming Mariah - by Pam Hillman

About the book: After her father's death, Mariah Malone sends a letter that will forever alter the lives of her family. When Slade Donovan, strong willed and eager for vengeance, shows up on her front porch, Mariah is not ready to hear his truths: her father's farm, the only home she's ever known, was bought with stolen gold. With Slade ready to collect his father's rightful claim and force Mariah and her family out on the streets, Mariah must turn to God for guidance. Though Mr. Frederick Cooper, a local landowner, promises to answer her financial woes if she agrees to be his bride, Mariah finds herself drawn instead to the angry young man demanding her home.

With the ranch now under Slade's careful eye, he unearths more than he ever imagined as a devious plot of thievery, betrayal, and murder threatens the well-being of the ranch, endangering those who hold it dear. As the days dwindle until the rest of the Donovan clan arrives at the Lazy M ranch, Mariah and Slade must rise above the resentment of their fathers and see their true feelings before greed changes their futures forever.

My review: This is such an enjoyable historical romance!  I really felt for the characters and all they had gone through in the past.  It's understandable why Slade is angry and bitter, but the importance of forgiveness is pointed out, both for Slade to forgive and to accept it from God.  I like that the salvation message is clear and that it's emphasized how important prayer is.  The romance is wonderful with plenty of romantic moments.  The story is well-written and keeps up a good pace.  I'm looking forward to her next one!  I definitely recommend it if you like historical romance!

I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review.

Giveaway for Kindle !

More reviews at Litfuse!

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/uPDB6

About the Author: Pam Hillman was born and raised on a dairy farm in Mississippi and spent her teenage years perched on the seat of a tractor raking hay. In those days, her daddy couldn't afford two cab tractors with air conditioning and a radio, so Pam drove the Allis Chalmers 110. Even when her daddy asked her if she wanted to bale hay, she told him she didn't mind raking. Raking hay doesn't take much thought so Pam spent her time working on her tan and making up stories in her head. Now, that's the kind of life every girl should dream of!

Learn more about Pam at: http://www.pamhillman.com

Sincerely Yours by Jane Kirkpatrick, Amanda Cabot, Laurie Alice Eakes, and Ann Shorey

About the book:

Four unexpected letters. Four intrepid women. Four lives changed forever.
Spanning a century and a continent, these romantic novellas will lead you on a journey through the landscape of love. Four young women find their lives altered after each receives a letter that sets her on a new path. From a Hudson River steamboat to a lush drawing room, from a carousel carver's workshop to a remote hospital, you'll be swept into the lives of women who are making their way in the world and finding love where they least expect it.

Moonlight Promise by Laurie Alice Eakes
Camilla Renfrew is a highborn English lady fleeing false accusations when she runs smack into love on a steamboat bound for the new Erie Canal. But can this unexpected attraction survive the treacherous journey?

Lessons in Love by Ann Shorey
Marigold Montgomery Bentley writes marriage advice for Kipler's Home Weekly even though she is single. Everyone assumes from the initials that "M. M." is a man. When the editor asks to meet Mr. Bentley, can Merrie come up with a ruse to keep her writing job?

One Little Word by Amanda Cabot
Lorraine Caldwell will lose her family fortune to a reckless cousin if she doesn't marry quickly. When she learns her long-lost brother is alive, she hopes she's found the answer to her problems. What she finds instead is a mysterious carousel carver who turns her life upside down.

A Saving Grace by Jane KirkpatrickGrace Hathaway must rescue a dear friend from a remote and notorious clinic that promises healing but delivers only heartache. In a place laced with deceit, where lives hang in the balance, whom can she trust to help her?

My review:

I really enjoyed each of the stories in this well-written collection!  The romances were sweet in each one and featured wonderful characters.  At the end of each story, the author explained a bit about the history behind the story, such as what the first steamboats were like or about what happened at the real clinic in Washington in the early 1900's.  That's part of the reason I read historical fiction, to learn what life was like in another time and place, so I appreciated the extra explanation.  The stories aren't related to each other, other than having the theme of letters and the main characters being people of faith, so there's no need to read them in any particular order.  I appreciated that each of these women were strong and determined characters, women to admire. I love novella collections and I hope there will be many more to come, both from these authors and from their publisher!

I received this book free from Revell in exchange for an honest review.

Go to this link for a giveaway by Jane Kirkpatrick!
http://janeswordsofencouragement.blogspot.com/

 The Authors

1. 

   © Carole Marie Photography

   Jane Kirkpatrick

   Jane Kirkpatrick is the New York Times and CBA bestselling author of more than twenty-five books, including A Sweetness to the Soul, which won the coveted Wrangler Award from the Western Heritage Center. Her works have been...
   

   Continue reading about Jane Kirkpatrick

2. 

   Amanda Cabot

   Amanda Cabot is the bestselling author of the Texas Dreams series, Christmas Roses, Summer of Promise, and Waiting for Spring. Her books have been finalists for the ACFW Carol Awards and the Booksellers Best. She lives in Wyoming. Find out...
   

   Continue reading about Amanda Cabot

3. 

   Laurie Alice Eakes

   Laurie Alice Eakes is the author of Lady in the Mist, Heart's Safe Passage, A Necessary Deception, A Flight of Fancy, and several other novels. She won a National Readers Choice Award for Best Regency in 2007 for Family Guardian. Laurie...
   

   Continue reading about Laurie Alice Eakes

4. 

   Ann Shorey

   Ann Shorey is the author of the At Home in Beldon Grove series, Where Wildflowers Bloom, and When the Heart Heals. She has also published selections in the Cup of Comfort series and in Chicken Soup for the Grandma's Soul. Ann and her...
   

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Life Support - Grace Medical 3 - by Candace Calvert

This is an interesting story about nurse Lauren Barclay, who's doing all she can to keep her sister from going off the deep end.  She moves back to Houston to ensure that her sister never runs away again, watching that she gets to school, work, and that nothing upsets her too much, especially PA Elijah Landry.  Lauren and her parents blame him for causing her sister to run away and she can't understand why she feels drawn to him in spite of that.  Elijah was just trying to help her sister and he desperately wants Lauren to understand that, and to see that her sister needs real help.  He wants Lauren to be able to have a life, with him.  He's also trying to juggle a disabled brother, a father who files a restraining order to keep him away, and parenting his daughter alone.  Add in an impending hurricane and who knows what the future holds?

I haven't read very many books that take place in the medical field and I found it interesting to see what dealing with that kind of pressure would be like.  I liked the multiple viewpoints in this story as we get to see what other characters besides the two main ones are thinking.  About halfway through the book it felt like things started being rehashed and that the plot didn't move forward very much.  I found it extremely frustrating that Lauren and her parents couldn't see that Jessica needed more help than they could give.  I understand the denial that goes along with a serious medical diagnosis, but did they think they could control her forever?  There are moments of romance and it seems that Lauren and Elijah had a moment prior to this book, that I felt I might have missed out on since I haven't read the first two books in the series.  Jessica's disorder and Elijah's brother's situation with having brain damage made me think about how hard some people have it and what I would do if I had to deal with something like that.  I liked the message about the importance of faith, but that we also need to have action  If you like a mix of medical drama and romance, you might want to check out this book, but I would recommend starting at the beginning of the series.

I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

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Hands of Darkness - Lure of the Serpent 2 - by Heather James

 

I really enjoyed this suspenseful, amusing book!  This book starts soon after the first one ended, with Evelyn Barrett pregnant and now working as a jury consultant.  When she's given the chance to work as a police consultant in San Diego with the cop she worked with to find her daughter's killer, her and her husband decide to move there for a fresh start and to get away from the town where so many places remind them of their murdered daughter.  The first case she's brought in on is a serial rapist and murderer and her job is to read people and get at the truth.  She's a former attorney and also says whatever she's thinking, so she has a way of getting under people's skin.  When the case hits too close to home, she ends up in a fight for her very survival!

Evelyn is such a character and probably one of my favorites in all the books I've read.  She has a biting wit that never fails to make me laugh and her calm husband is a nice counterpoint to her.  I also appreciate the happy marriage that's portrayed, especially after knowing all they've been through.  I like seeing her process as she figures out clues and interviews witnesses.  I also really like how we see her thoughts on evil and how she views the devil and the destruction he causes.  She thinks deeply and looks past the surface to what's underneath.  The fact that we get to see inside the killer's mind really gives a chilling and insightful look into the nature of evil.  It also adds to the suspense!  You could probably read this book without having read the first, but that one gives a lot of insight into Evelyn and makes you really appreciate all she's survived, not to mention being a very unique, emotional, and suspenseful story.  I definitely recommend reading that one, too.  If you enjoy suspense, you definitely need to check out this series!  I know I'm looking forward to the next one!

I received this book free from Kregel Publications in exchange for an honest review.

Review of DANCING WITH FIREFLIES || RSVP for April 10th Facebook Party and enter to win a Kindle HDX from @DeniseAHunter!

About the book: A Chapel Springs Romance

Jade returns home to Chapel Springs after years of protecting her fragile heart. Then along comes Daniel, making her long to dance again.

Creative and complicated, Jade McKinley felt like a weed in a rose garden growing up in Chapel Springs. When she left, she thought she'd never look back. But now, pregnant, alone, and broke, she has no other choice but to return.

The mayor of Chapel Springs, Daniel Dawson, has been an honorary member of the McKinley family for years. While his own home life was almost non-existent, Daniel fit right into the boisterous McKinley family. He's loved Jade for years, but she always saw him as a big brother. Now that she's back, his feelings are stronger than ever.

As Jade attempts to settle in, nothing feels right. God seems far away, she's hiding secrets from her family, and she's strangely attracted to the man who's always called her "squirt." Finding her way home may prove more difficult than she imagined.

My review: I absolutely loved this book!  The characters came alive and Daniel, especially, was wonderful. He had such an honorable way about him, but very human.  I felt sorry for Jade, but also felt she was a little spoiled.  I loved the McKinley family and can't wait to read the first book and the new ones as they come out.  This story was fine as a stand-alone, but I think I would have enjoyed it even more knowing the love story between Madison and Beckett as they feature prominently in this story.  The romance was wonderful, but does get a bit passionate, so it's probably more appropriate for older teenagers and up.  It also deals with a traumatic experience, but doesn't dwell on it or get detailed.  I was actually surprised that it doesn't seem to get dealt with by the end, but rather ignored by the main character. There was some mention of faith, but I did wish there would have been more because it's not very clear where Jade stood until near the end of the book.  I highly recommend this book from one of my favorite authors!

I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review.

More Reviews Here!

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/uJ6OD

About the Author: Denise Hunter is an internationally published best-selling author. Her books have won The Holt Medallion Award, The Reader's Choice Award, The Foreword Book of the Year Award, and was a RITA finalist. In 1996, inspired by the death of her grandfather, Denise began her first book, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her husband says he inspires all of her romantic stories, but Denise insists a good imagination helps, too. When Denise isn't writing, she's busy raising three heroes-in-the-making with her husband.

Learn more about Denise at: http://www.denisehunterbooks.com

Don't miss Denise Hunter's latest Chapel Springs Romance, Dancing with Fireflies. Reviewers have already labeled Dancing with Fireflies "swoon-worthy" and "the perfect love story." 

Join Denise in celebrating the release of her new book by entering her Kindle HDX giveaway and RSVPing for her April 10th Facebook party.

One winner will receive:

• A brand new Kindle Fire HDX
• Dancing with Fireflies and Barefoot Summer by Denise Hunter

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 10th. Winner will be announced at the Dancing with Fireflies Facebook Party on April 10th. Connect with Denise for an evening of prizes, book chat, and an exclusive look at the next book in the series.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN on the event page. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 10th!

Win a Kindle HDX from @BillyCoffey in “The Devil Walks in Mattingly” Giveaway Through 4/5 & Review!

About the book: For the three people tortured by their secret complicity in a young man's untimely death, redemption is what they most long for . . . and the last thing they expect to receive.

It has been twenty years since Philip McBride's body was found along the riverbank in the dark woods known as Happy Hollow. His death was ruled a suicide. But three people have carried the truth ever since---Philip didn't kill himself that day. He was murdered.

Each of the three have wilted in the shadow of their sins. Jake Barnett is Mattingly's sheriff, where he spends his days polishing the fragile shell of the man he pretends to be. His wife, Kate, has convinced herself the good she does for the poor will someday wash the blood from her hands. And high in the mountains, Taylor Hathcock lives in seclusion and fear, fueled by madness and hatred.

Yet what cannot be laid to rest is bound to rise again. Philip McBride has haunted Jake's dreams for weeks, warning that he is coming back for them all. When Taylor finds mysterious footprints leading from the Hollow, he believes his redemption has come. His actions will plunge the quiet town of Mattingly into darkness. These three will be drawn together for a final confrontation between life and death . . . Between truth and lies.

My review: This is a unique story which, unfortunately, I had a hard time liking.  It took a while to get into the story and it dragged for me.  I felt for the characters and wondered how they each could have killed Philip or if it was really something else, but I didn't feel particularly attached to any of them.  There's a lot of talk of faith, mostly a skewed version from Taylor, but what really threw me is there seems to be either a ghost or an angel, as one boy calls him.  It's not clear whether the boy is portrayed as right, but the Bible says humans don't become angels, so I wish it would have been clarified better in the story.  There is another unexplained supernatural occurrence that we don't get an explanation for and I don't like loose ends.  I did like the focus on forgiveness and telling the truth.  I liked the writing itself and if you like unique Southern fiction, you might want to check it out.

I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review.

More reviews here!

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/ux3hc

About the Author: Billy Coffey's critically-acclaimed books combine rural Southern charm with a vision far beyond the ordinary. He is a regular contributor to several publications, where he writes about faith and life. Billy lives with his wife and two children in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. 

Learn more about Billy at: http://billycoffey.com

Billy Coffey is celebrating his new book, The Devil Walks in Mattingly, with a Kindle Fire HDX giveaway.

 
  One winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire HDX
• The Devil Walks in Mattingly by Billy Coffey

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 5th. Winner will be announced April  7th on Billy's blog. Watch Billy give the backstory of the book here.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to stop by Billy's blog on April 7th to see if you won.