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Friday, December 17, 2021
Fascinating! 'The Debutante's Code' - Thorndike & Swann Regency Mysteries 1 - by Erica Vetsch
About the book:
Wednesday, December 15, 2021
Sweet Christmas Romance! 'A Picture of Christmas' - Winter, Montana #4 - by Bell Renshaw
About the book:
Rhett Bradley’s home for
the holidays, but it’s not by choice. Faced with a potential backward
step at his company in Seattle, he’s forced to take time off, but
somehow being back in Winter, Montana isn’t the dead end he was
expecting.
Olive Fitzsimons has a secret email friend who’s made her new job at the mayor’s office bearable. Still, putting her true passions aside for the political hubbub in Winter hasn’t been a step in the right direction for her. Sure, she can make her rent payments, but is she happy?
As Rhett and Olive continue to run into each other in the small town amid holiday festivals and sparkling Christmas lights, their once fiery opposition starts to settle into something more. But Olive’s interest in her email friend has grown into a crush and Rhett will be leaving Winter in in the New Year, won’t he?
Join the familiar cast of characters in Winter, Montana as the community joins together in the spirit of Christmas where hearts soften and a kiss between opposites is the perfect holiday miracle.
Olive Fitzsimons has a secret email friend who’s made her new job at the mayor’s office bearable. Still, putting her true passions aside for the political hubbub in Winter hasn’t been a step in the right direction for her. Sure, she can make her rent payments, but is she happy?
As Rhett and Olive continue to run into each other in the small town amid holiday festivals and sparkling Christmas lights, their once fiery opposition starts to settle into something more. But Olive’s interest in her email friend has grown into a crush and Rhett will be leaving Winter in in the New Year, won’t he?
Join the familiar cast of characters in Winter, Montana as the community joins together in the spirit of Christmas where hearts soften and a kiss between opposites is the perfect holiday miracle.
My review:
This was such a cute story and one of my favorite plots. Besides the secret pen pal there's also a redemption story as Olive's first impressions of Rhett are not favorable but he starts to change. There was some fun banter that made me laugh and some sweet romantic moments. I liked how we see both of them grow, Rhett starting to question his life choices in Seattle and that he's become a workaholic and Olive wondering if she can make a go of her dream of living off of her art instead of having to work at the mayor's office. Olive was such a great character, generous and dedicated to doing what's right, even if it's not easy or would cost her something. I did wish that Olive and Rhett would have had a conversation about her faith and whether or not he believed. There's also a good conversation between Rhett and his dad where his dad talked about forgiveness and letting anger go. I did question some decisions Rhett was planning on making so I was frustrated with him but overall I liked seeing his redemption story play out. This book worked well as a stand-alone as I hadn't read the first three. This was a wonderful Christmas story and I highly recommend it!
I received a free kindle copy of this book from JustRead Tours. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
Tuesday, December 7, 2021
Amazing! 'Blood from a Stone' - The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone 5 - by David James Warren
About the book:
It's Rembrandt Stone's
last chance to get things right--and to apprehend a killer who promises
tragedy for him in the future. But one mistake in the past might cost
him everything he's worked so hard to save.
The continuing adventures of Rembrandt Stone from the creative minds of James L. Rubart, Susan May Warren and newcomer David Curtis Warren, writing as DAVID JAMES WARREN.
The continuing adventures of Rembrandt Stone from the creative minds of James L. Rubart, Susan May Warren and newcomer David Curtis Warren, writing as DAVID JAMES WARREN.
My review:
This was another amazing book in the series but also a hard one because of what Rembrandt wants to fix and because the stakes are even higher. There are some crazy twists, he continues to show that he's trying to be a better man and undo some past mistakes but I also questioned his decisions a couple of times. He has a great conversation with his dad about God and purpose and a good reminder for me and him that you can only do what you've been given to do and to not take on what isn't meant to be your job. The ending was gut-wrenching, as usual, and you wonder again how in the world he'll fix this or if he even can. I highly recommend this book, as I do the whole series and you must read them in order!
I received a free kindle copy of this book from JustRead Tours. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
Monday, December 6, 2021
Amazing Conclusion! 'Heart of Stone' - The True Lies of Rembrandt Stone 6 - by David James Warren
About the book:
Rembrandt Stone can't
believe the world he's returned to. It must change. But he'll have to
break time's rules and undo his past to create a future he can live
with.
The continuing adventures of Rembrandt Stone from the creative minds of James L. Rubart, Susan May Warren and newcomer David Curtis Warren, writing as DAVID JAMES WARREN.
The continuing adventures of Rembrandt Stone from the creative minds of James L. Rubart, Susan May Warren and newcomer David Curtis Warren, writing as DAVID JAMES WARREN.
My review:
Wow! What an ending! This was an amazing series with so many twists and turns! There were definitely some surprises and I loved how things came together. There was more of Rembrandt's faith journey in this story than the others as he comes to some realizations. There's some romance and police procedural work plus some great action! I definitely suggest reading the whole series as it makes the most sense and you get the greatest satisfaction seeing all Rembrandt goes through to get his family back. I highly recommend this book!
I received a free kindle copy of this book from JustRead Tours. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
Another Wonderful Addition! 'Right Here Waiting' - Deep Haven Collection 6 - by Michelle Sass Aleckson & Susan May Warren
About the book:
He lives in a world of winter.
Sled dog musher and outdoor adventurer Nick Dahlquist doesn’t mean to be a loner—he just feels at home in the woods, with his dogs, and also online in his vlogging world, where he’s amassed nearly a million viewers. But he’s just a simple guy, with simple goals—care for his dogs, teach people how to survive the cold, and run the Iditarod. Unfortunately, life turns cold when his lead dog is injured, and he’s low on funds. Good thing he has LadyJHawk to chat with. She’s become an online friend he can turn to, and he’s starting to need her more than he’d like to admit. But the last thing he wants is for some random woman to show up on his doorstep…
She doesn’t belong in his world.
Chopper pilot and Texas gal Jae Lynn Washington has been following Nick’s DogQuest videos and Get Lost in the Woods vlogs since she inherited her deceased boyfriend’s military working dog. Three years later, his encouragement and help as online chat buddies have made her wonder if he could be more than a friend. What if she moved to Deep Haven? Would that be considered stalking, even if she had a bonafide job on the Crisis Response Team?
But she’s determined to try…
When Jae shows up in Deep Haven—and on Nick’s doorstep—he’s not at all the man she met online. The last thing she’ll do is tell him she’s really LadyJHawk. And when Nick is tapped to train the Crisis Response Team, he’s pretty sure that petite, summer-loving Jae won’t last a moment in the brutal cold—a fear he pours out to LadyJHawk. As their training takes a personal turn, their chilly start begins to thaw. But is he ready to shake off his online relationship for the one in real life? And if Jae tells him the truth, will it spook him back into the woods?
When a blizzard strikes, and the CRT is called out into the storm, it might be too late…
Cozy up to this delightful, wintery twist on You’ve Got Mail set in the snowy escape of Deep Haven.
Sled dog musher and outdoor adventurer Nick Dahlquist doesn’t mean to be a loner—he just feels at home in the woods, with his dogs, and also online in his vlogging world, where he’s amassed nearly a million viewers. But he’s just a simple guy, with simple goals—care for his dogs, teach people how to survive the cold, and run the Iditarod. Unfortunately, life turns cold when his lead dog is injured, and he’s low on funds. Good thing he has LadyJHawk to chat with. She’s become an online friend he can turn to, and he’s starting to need her more than he’d like to admit. But the last thing he wants is for some random woman to show up on his doorstep…
She doesn’t belong in his world.
Chopper pilot and Texas gal Jae Lynn Washington has been following Nick’s DogQuest videos and Get Lost in the Woods vlogs since she inherited her deceased boyfriend’s military working dog. Three years later, his encouragement and help as online chat buddies have made her wonder if he could be more than a friend. What if she moved to Deep Haven? Would that be considered stalking, even if she had a bonafide job on the Crisis Response Team?
But she’s determined to try…
When Jae shows up in Deep Haven—and on Nick’s doorstep—he’s not at all the man she met online. The last thing she’ll do is tell him she’s really LadyJHawk. And when Nick is tapped to train the Crisis Response Team, he’s pretty sure that petite, summer-loving Jae won’t last a moment in the brutal cold—a fear he pours out to LadyJHawk. As their training takes a personal turn, their chilly start begins to thaw. But is he ready to shake off his online relationship for the one in real life? And if Jae tells him the truth, will it spook him back into the woods?
When a blizzard strikes, and the CRT is called out into the storm, it might be too late…
Cozy up to this delightful, wintery twist on You’ve Got Mail set in the snowy escape of Deep Haven.
My review:
I just love Deep Haven and the sense of community and family there and it was great to have one of my favorite plots, an online couple talking in real life and not knowing it, set there with so many other wonderful characters I've come to know and love! The romance was sweet but I also love the depth to these stories as they both have some hang-ups they have to work through. Nick feels like he lets people down, especially his family, and that he can never measure up after being disappointed in love. Jae is looking for a place to belong and struggles with proving herself after moving constantly as a child and never fitting in. They both have faith and there are some good messages about depending on God and God using the weak things. There's also some great adventure and action. I loved the dogs and have always wanted to go dogsledding! This does work as a stand-alone but it makes the story richer having read the others and knowing who the rest of the characters are. I highly recommend this book!
I received an ebook free from JustRead Tours. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
Sunday, November 14, 2021
'The Inn on Hanging Hill' - Beach House Mystery 2 - by Christy Barritt
About the book:
Lindsey Waters never
wanted to return to the seaside inn where she grew up. Too many
traumatic memories haunt the place, both from her childhood and from
days gone by. But with guilt relentlessly chasing her after a tragic
choice, she’s desperate for a fresh start.
Mysterious incidents begin plaguing the inn—dangerous incidents—that make it clear someone wants to scare Lindsey away. But why? Does it have anything to do with the two weeks missing from her memory when she was abducted at age twelve?
Childhood friend Benjamin Newsom seems like an answer to prayer when he shows up to work as a handyman. But something is different about him, something Lindsey can’t put her finger on. She’s certain Benjamin harbors secrets.
As peril continues to close in, Lindsey must decide if she wants to face her past or run. She doesn’t know whom she can trust, and whatever choices she makes will determine if she lives or if she becomes part of the inn’s tragic legacy.
Mysterious incidents begin plaguing the inn—dangerous incidents—that make it clear someone wants to scare Lindsey away. But why? Does it have anything to do with the two weeks missing from her memory when she was abducted at age twelve?
Childhood friend Benjamin Newsom seems like an answer to prayer when he shows up to work as a handyman. But something is different about him, something Lindsey can’t put her finger on. She’s certain Benjamin harbors secrets.
As peril continues to close in, Lindsey must decide if she wants to face her past or run. She doesn’t know whom she can trust, and whatever choices she makes will determine if she lives or if she becomes part of the inn’s tragic legacy.
My review:
This was a suspenseful, somewhat spooky book dealing with an inn's tragic history and with Lindsey's own questions about her abduction and why she can't remember anything about it. There were a lot of moments that made me jumpy; this was definitely not boring! There were secrets and you weren't sure who to trust. More and more questions seemed to pile up. There was some romance, also, and some action. Both Lindsey and Benjamin were believers but something didn't add up with him. Lindsey also had a good head on her shoulders and was incredibly brave to face her questions head on, even with someone threatening her. I hadn't read book one and this worked well as a stand-alone. This was an enjoyable romantic suspense that was a little spookier than most I've read.
I received an ebook free from JustRead Tours. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
Monday, November 8, 2021
Fascinating and Inspiring! 'Carved in Ebony: Lessons from the Black Women Who Shape Us' - by Jasmine L. Holmes
About the book:
Elizabeth Freeman, Nannie Helen Burroughs, Maria Fearing, Charlotte
Forten Grimké, Sarah Mapps Douglass, Sara Griffith Stanley, Amanda Berry
Smith, Lucy Craft Laney, Maria Stewart, and Frances Ellen Watkins
Harper
These names may not be familiar, but each one of these women was a shining beacon of devotion in a world that did not value their lives. They worked to change laws, built schools, spoke to thousands, shared the Gospel around the world. And while history books may have forgotten them, their stories can teach us so much about what it means to be modern women of faith.
Through the research and reflections of author Jasmine Holmes, you will be inspired by what each of these exceptional women can teach us about the intersections of faith and education, birth, privilege, opportunity, and so much more. Carved in Ebony will take you past the predominantly white, male contributions that seemingly dominate history books and church history to discover how Black women have been some of the main figures in defining the landscape of American history and faith.
Join Jasmine on this journey of illuminating these women--God's image-bearers, carved in ebony.
These names may not be familiar, but each one of these women was a shining beacon of devotion in a world that did not value their lives. They worked to change laws, built schools, spoke to thousands, shared the Gospel around the world. And while history books may have forgotten them, their stories can teach us so much about what it means to be modern women of faith.
Through the research and reflections of author Jasmine Holmes, you will be inspired by what each of these exceptional women can teach us about the intersections of faith and education, birth, privilege, opportunity, and so much more. Carved in Ebony will take you past the predominantly white, male contributions that seemingly dominate history books and church history to discover how Black women have been some of the main figures in defining the landscape of American history and faith.
Join Jasmine on this journey of illuminating these women--God's image-bearers, carved in ebony.
My review:
This was an incredibly fascinating book I didn't want to put down! It was amazing learning about these women, some who endured against seemingly impossible odds, to teach, learn to read, even travel the world and spread the gospel! I was blown away by their bravery in speaking out against racism, some during a time when they were considered the lowest of society. Some gave speeches, wrote books, taught many and all influenced generations to come. I liked how the author compared their experiences to hers and how she felt when she discovered their stories, many of whom she didn't know herself, and what she's learned from them. She also chose women who had a strong faith in God and weren't just activists but, first and foremost, Christians. I liked the little bios, along with quotes from their works or speeches and the influence they had. I felt like I got a pretty good understanding of what made them tick, along with an inspiring message to follow where God leads and know He can use anyone in any circumstance. I highly recommend this book for everyone, not just women or women of color. There's much everyone can learn from them.
I received this book free from JustRead Tours. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
Saturday, November 6, 2021
A Season on the Wind - by Suzanne Woods Fisher
About the book:
Ben Zook was as free as a bird--until a chase for a rare White-winged
Tern takes him to the one place on earth he planned to never return: his
Amish home in Stoney Ridge.
Desperate for photographs of the elusive tern, Ben hires local field guide Micah Weaver, planning to "bag the bird" and leave Stoney Ridge before anyone recognizes him. But he neglected to plan for Micah's sister, Penny.
Ben had become Penny's spark bird during one long-ago summer, when she had introduced him to birding, even sharing with him a hidden eagle aerie. Penny always hoped Ben would come back to Stoney Ridge. Back to his Amish roots. Back to her.
The only problem? Ben has absolutely no memory of Penny.
Desperate for photographs of the elusive tern, Ben hires local field guide Micah Weaver, planning to "bag the bird" and leave Stoney Ridge before anyone recognizes him. But he neglected to plan for Micah's sister, Penny.
Ben had become Penny's spark bird during one long-ago summer, when she had introduced him to birding, even sharing with him a hidden eagle aerie. Penny always hoped Ben would come back to Stoney Ridge. Back to his Amish roots. Back to her.
The only problem? Ben has absolutely no memory of Penny.
My review:
This story started out slow for me but I ended up liking it pretty well as there was a twist and also ended up being very emotional and touching. I liked the varied viewpoints as we have a professional birder who's been running away for years, the woman waiting for him all of that time, his cousin whose life has fallen apart and she doesn't know what to do and the young guide who can't find the words to tell a girl he's interested in her. They've all experienced different hurt, from family or a church or a spouse and are at various stages of healing. Some have turned away from God or never really knew him or are actively leaning on Him and listening for Him. There's some romance and just a peaceful feel to the whole story. I'm not much of a bird watcher myself but it was interesting learning about them and I can see how it would be exciting finding a rare one. Forgiveness was a major theme for the story. I also liked seeing characters from previous books set in Stoney Ridge show up. I would recommend this story even if you don't love Amish stories as it had much to offer.
I received this book free from Revell. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
Tuesday, November 2, 2021
Sweet Romance! 'Tacos for Two' - by Betsy St. Amant
About the book:
Two unlikely chefs. One life-changing contest. There can only be one winner . . . right?
Food truck owner Rory Perez may not be able to cook, but she's determined to keep the family business out of the red. An upcoming contest during a food truck festival seems like the best way to do it. The prize money could finally give her solid financial footing, freeing up her time to meet the man she's been talking to via an anonymous online dating site.
Jude Strong is tired of being a puppet at his manipulative father's law firm, and the food truck festival seems like the perfect opportunity to dive into his passion for cooking and finally call his life his own. If he loses the contest, he'll be back at the law firm for good, so failure is not an option.
But things are about to get . . . complicated. Rory's chef gets mono, forcing her to cook after all. And Jude discovers that his stiffest competition is the same woman he's been falling for online. Will they sacrifice the futures they've envisioned for the sake of love? Or will there only ever be tacos for one?
Food truck owner Rory Perez may not be able to cook, but she's determined to keep the family business out of the red. An upcoming contest during a food truck festival seems like the best way to do it. The prize money could finally give her solid financial footing, freeing up her time to meet the man she's been talking to via an anonymous online dating site.
Jude Strong is tired of being a puppet at his manipulative father's law firm, and the food truck festival seems like the perfect opportunity to dive into his passion for cooking and finally call his life his own. If he loses the contest, he'll be back at the law firm for good, so failure is not an option.
But things are about to get . . . complicated. Rory's chef gets mono, forcing her to cook after all. And Jude discovers that his stiffest competition is the same woman he's been falling for online. Will they sacrifice the futures they've envisioned for the sake of love? Or will there only ever be tacos for one?
My review:
This was a fun, sometimes frustrating romance that made me crave tacos like you wouldn't believe! I love food trucks and it was a funny idea to have someone own a food truck who can't cook! I also love the plot of falling for someone online but having conflict with them in person and not realizing they're the same person. I felt like Rory was also relatable because she loves the movie "You've Got Mail, " my favorite, and has some self-esteem and anxiety issues. Rory definitely had more pressure and responsibilities than Jude. I really felt for him and how he had to deal with his horrible family. That I can't relate to and he seemed to have so much patience, both with them and with her as she really had some trust issues because of stuff in her past. There was some references to his faith and I wished they would have discussed that more to make sure they were on the same page as I don't remember mention of hers. There was some fun banter and sweet romance, even mention of Pride and Prejudice! Her friends and cousin were also fun additions to the story and I liked that a girl with down syndrome was in the story as you don't see that very often. She was also really funny! I highly recommend this story!
I received a free ebook from Netgalley. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
The Author
-
Emilie Hendryx © EA Creative Photography Betsy St. Amant
Betsy St. Amant is the author of more than fifteen inspirational romances, including The Key to Love, and a frequent contributor to iBelieve.com. She lives in north Louisiana with her husband, two daughters, a collection of Austen novels, and an...
Continue reading about Betsy St. Amant
Sunday, October 31, 2021
Tuesday, October 26, 2021
Wonderful Addition to Devotions! 'The Daily Bible Project' - by Ink & Willow
About the book:
For anyone looking to
deepen their spiritual walk by reading through the Bible in a year, this
keepsake journal offers a reading schedule with daily Scripture
assignments and room to record three years' worth of responses.
Derived from the popular Daily Question series, The Daily Bible Project follows the same three-year structure in this new keepsake journal. Instead of a prompt, however, each page offers a Scripture reading assignment for the day, along with brief journaling spaces to fill with your favorite verses or your own questions and revelations experienced while reading.
The daily reading plan is specially designed to keep you on track but not overwhelmed:
• The daily readings are chronological but include chapters from the Old and New Testaments.
• Each day's reading prompt assigns roughly three chapters of Scripture.
• You'll read through the entire Bible each year, for three years.
• Indicating just the Scripture reference, the journal can be used with any Bible translation or version.
With room for three years' worth of responses, The Daily Bible Project offers a unique opportunity to track your spiritual growth and progress year over year.
Derived from the popular Daily Question series, The Daily Bible Project follows the same three-year structure in this new keepsake journal. Instead of a prompt, however, each page offers a Scripture reading assignment for the day, along with brief journaling spaces to fill with your favorite verses or your own questions and revelations experienced while reading.
The daily reading plan is specially designed to keep you on track but not overwhelmed:
• The daily readings are chronological but include chapters from the Old and New Testaments.
• Each day's reading prompt assigns roughly three chapters of Scripture.
• You'll read through the entire Bible each year, for three years.
• Indicating just the Scripture reference, the journal can be used with any Bible translation or version.
With room for three years' worth of responses, The Daily Bible Project offers a unique opportunity to track your spiritual growth and progress year over year.
My review:
This book is a great idea to use in your devotion time as you read the Bible. It helps keep you on track to read the Bible in a year and gives you room to take notes and compare what you learned each year on one page. The binding is gorgeous with a beautiful green color and gold lettering and ivy designs. The pages are also wider than a usual book, which makes it easier to write in and there are also pages sprinkled here and there with helpful information, such as some of the names of God, biblical measurements, the stats on the Bible or verses to focus on to give you hope, peace, joy or comfort. There's also an alternative reading plan if you'd rather read sequentially instead of chronologically. This would be a joy to write in and also keep to look back on down the road after using it for three years. I highly recommend this for anyone looking to stick to a reading plan or add a little to their devotional time.
I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah and Ink & Willow. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
Saturday, October 9, 2021
Fascinating! 'The Healing of Natalie Curtis' - by Jane Kirkpatrick
About the book:
She came to the West for rest . . . what she found was a passion.
Classically trained pianist and singer Natalie Curtis can't seem to recapture the joy that music once brought her. In 1902, her brother invites her to join him in the West to search for healing. What she finds are songs she'd never before encountered--the haunting melodies, rhythms, and stories of Native Americans.
But their music is under attack. The US government's Code of Offenses prohibits America's Indigenous people from singing, dancing, or speaking their own languages. Natalie makes it her mission not only to document these songs before they disappear but to appeal to President Teddy Roosevelt himself, who is the only man with the power to repeal the unjust law.
Award-winning author Jane Kirkpatrick weaves a lyrical novel based on a true story that captivates to the very end.
Classically trained pianist and singer Natalie Curtis can't seem to recapture the joy that music once brought her. In 1902, her brother invites her to join him in the West to search for healing. What she finds are songs she'd never before encountered--the haunting melodies, rhythms, and stories of Native Americans.
But their music is under attack. The US government's Code of Offenses prohibits America's Indigenous people from singing, dancing, or speaking their own languages. Natalie makes it her mission not only to document these songs before they disappear but to appeal to President Teddy Roosevelt himself, who is the only man with the power to repeal the unjust law.
Award-winning author Jane Kirkpatrick weaves a lyrical novel based on a true story that captivates to the very end.
My review:
This was a fascinating true story about an amazing woman and her quest to right the wrongs done to the Native Americans, specifically wanting them to be able to sing their native songs and trying to document them for future generations. I loved how Natalie went from being a sickly, timid woman to daring to be brave and going out west with her brother to learn and ultimately becoming passionate about the people and the loss of their rights. It was amazing seeing the transformation and how she really stepped into her own and not only helped them but also found her own healing. I also liked seeing from their perspective. I knew a little about what the government did to the Native Americans in trying to assimilate them by erasing their culture but this really brought it to life and made me so angry, especially how some took it even further for their own gain. I would recommend this book if you like history!
I received a free copy of this book from Revell. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
The Author
-
Jane Kirkpatrick
Jane Kirkpatrick is the New York Times and CBA bestselling and award-winning author or contributor to thirty-nine books, including Something Worth Doing, One More River to Cross, A Name of Her Own, All Together in One Place, A...
Continue reading about Jane Kirkpatrick
Monday, October 4, 2021
Emotionally Satisfying! 'The Inn at Walker Beach' - The Barefoot Sisterhood 1 - by Lindsay Harrel
About the book:
A dream years in the making becomes reality with the inaugural meeting of The Barefoot Sisterhood...
Jenna Wakefield has been through a lot in her twenty-seven years—losing her mother, becoming a teen mom, and battling depression, just to name a few. And working a dead-end job, barely paying her bills, and fighting unrequited feelings for her boss aren’t exactly part of the life she always imagined.
With her six children grown and her husband constantly traveling for work, Elise Griffin finds herself utterly without purpose for the first time ever at age sixty-three. But “retirement” isn’t as wonderful as it might sound—it gives her far too much time to think about the affair her husband had a year ago ... the one she’s never told anyone about.
When both women are invited into the mysterious Barefoot Sisterhood and asked to help restore an old beachside inn for a good cause, they find themselves supported and encouraged in new and exciting ways. This inspiration leads to dream seeking ... and new romance as well.
Discover what happens when women give each other the space to finally dream—and in doing so, make the world a better place.
Jenna Wakefield has been through a lot in her twenty-seven years—losing her mother, becoming a teen mom, and battling depression, just to name a few. And working a dead-end job, barely paying her bills, and fighting unrequited feelings for her boss aren’t exactly part of the life she always imagined.
With her six children grown and her husband constantly traveling for work, Elise Griffin finds herself utterly without purpose for the first time ever at age sixty-three. But “retirement” isn’t as wonderful as it might sound—it gives her far too much time to think about the affair her husband had a year ago ... the one she’s never told anyone about.
When both women are invited into the mysterious Barefoot Sisterhood and asked to help restore an old beachside inn for a good cause, they find themselves supported and encouraged in new and exciting ways. This inspiration leads to dream seeking ... and new romance as well.
Discover what happens when women give each other the space to finally dream—and in doing so, make the world a better place.
My review:
This was an emotionally satisfying story as we see two women in very different stages of life really come into their own and start to see their worth. I loved the romance for Jenna, falling in love with her boss and friend but also needing to work through her fears of failing and not measuring up. Elise's story was also good but I have a harder time reading stories about infidelity. She really wanted to make her marriage better so started to do the work of figuring out what was at the root of their problems and it was interesting to see that unpacked. There was a little bit of faith in the story and I loved the idea of a sisterhood who supported one another and helped each other achieve their dreams. And the setting of Walker Beach was just gorgeous. I'm excited for the next book in the series about the two more women from the sisterhood!
I received a kindle copy of this book from JustRead Tours. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
Saturday, October 2, 2021
Fascinating Story About Three Generations! 'The Secret Keepers of Old Depot Grocery' - by Amanda Cox
About the book:
Present Day. Sarah Ashby returns to her childhood home,
determined to finally follow her dream of running the family business
alongside her mother and grandmother. So when her mother, Rosemary,
announces to her that Old Depot Grocery is closing, Sarah and her
grandmother, Glory Ann, make a plan to save the store. But Rosemary has
worked her entire life to make sure her daughter never follows in her
footsteps. She has her reasons--but she'll certainly never reveal the
real one.
1965. Glory Ann confesses to her family that she's pregnant with her deceased fiancé's baby. Pressured into a marriage of convenience with a shopkeeper to preserve her family's reputation, Glory Ann vows never to love again. But some promises are not as easily kept as she imagined.
This dual-time story from Amanda Cox deftly explores the complexity of the mother-daughter relationship, the way the secrets we keep shape our lives and the lives of others, and the healing power of telling the truth.
1965. Glory Ann confesses to her family that she's pregnant with her deceased fiancé's baby. Pressured into a marriage of convenience with a shopkeeper to preserve her family's reputation, Glory Ann vows never to love again. But some promises are not as easily kept as she imagined.
This dual-time story from Amanda Cox deftly explores the complexity of the mother-daughter relationship, the way the secrets we keep shape our lives and the lives of others, and the healing power of telling the truth.
My review:
This was a fascinating story about three generations of women and the secrets they're keeping. I love dual timeline stories and and I loved seeing what each of these women went through and the choices they made in earlier years and how that shaped who they are now. Glory Ann's husband Clarence was such a sweet man and a wonderful husband and father. He turned out to be my favorite character because of his selflessness, wisdom and love he showed his wife and daughters, even when it wasn't easy. I really liked Glory Ann, too, as she was a spitfire and was such a strong woman after all she'd endured. It was heartbreaking to see how Glory Ann's parents treated her and also to see later how Rosemary feels so guilty for a wrong choice she made and the situation it affected. There was a little bit about faith and a little bit of romance. This was a another well-written story from Amanda Cox and I highly recommend it!
I received this book free from Revell. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
The Author
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© Emilie Haney Amanda Cox
Amanda Cox is the author of The Edge of Belonging. A blogger and a curriculum developer for a national nonprofit youth leadership organization, she holds a bachelor's degree in Bible and theology and a master's degree in professional counseling, but her...
Continue reading about Amanda Cox
Monday, September 27, 2021
Loved It! 'Since You've Been Gone' - Restoring Heritage 3 - by Tari Faris
About the book:
With her vision and his know-how, this thing just might work . . .
Leah Williams is back in the quaint town of Heritage, Michigan, and ready to try again to make her business a success. But blank slates are hard to come by, and a piece of her past is waiting for her there. Heir to the Heritage Fruits company, Jonathan Kensington is the guy who not only made Leah's past difficult, but he also seems determined to complicate her present as well.
In order to avoid forcing a buyout of Leah's building, Jon will have to strike a compromise. Can the two of them work together? Or will their troubled past set the tone for their future?
Leah Williams is back in the quaint town of Heritage, Michigan, and ready to try again to make her business a success. But blank slates are hard to come by, and a piece of her past is waiting for her there. Heir to the Heritage Fruits company, Jonathan Kensington is the guy who not only made Leah's past difficult, but he also seems determined to complicate her present as well.
In order to avoid forcing a buyout of Leah's building, Jon will have to strike a compromise. Can the two of them work together? Or will their troubled past set the tone for their future?
My review:
This was a wonderful wrap-up to the Heritage series as a double love story unfolds, not only with Leah and Jon but also a redemption story with the town bad girl and an old friend of Nate's. It was so cute to hear about Jon's crush on Leah back in high school and how it never really went away while she feels inadequate and doesn't think it could be true. She also struggled with her dad's abandonment and feared no one will stay while Jon also wondered if he could measure up to his dad's legacy at the company he built and as a great man. There were a lot of cute moments between them as they try to resist each other, especially as they end up working together. I liked Leah's sassiness. There were also a lot of good spiritual conversations. I liked Madison's redemption story and how God used Colby to help her realize her worth. Both love stories were incredible. Tari Faris really knows how to write them and I didn't want to put this down! I highly recommend it, as I do the whole series!
I received a free kindle copy of this book from Revell and Netgalley. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
The Author
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Tari Faris Tari Faris
Tari Faris is the author of You Belong with Me and Until I Met You. A member of American Christian Fiction Writers and My Book Therapy, she is the projects manager for My Book Therapy, writes for learnhowtowriteanovel.com, and is a 2017 Genesis...
Continue reading about Tari Faris
Friday, September 24, 2021
Wonderfully Inspiring! Giveaway and Review of 'The Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady' - by Sharon J. Mondragon
About the book:
A simple change of scenery can change lives in powerful ways.
Margaret, Rose, Jane, and Fran had a good thing going: meet every week in the quiet of their peaceful chapel and knit prayer shawls. No muss, just ministry. That is, until their pastor boots them out of the church in his last-ditch effort to revive the dwindling congregation.
Uptight Margaret isn't having it. Knitting prayer shawls where people can watch is the most ridiculous idea she's ever heard of, and she's heard plenty. Prayer belongs in the church, not out among the heathen masses. How are they supposed to knit holiness into these shawls if they're constantly distracted by the public? But with no choice, the others embrace the challenge. They pack their knitting bags and drag Margaret--grumbling the whole way--to the mall with them. She can't wait to prove them all wrong when it fails miserably, and show the pastor that she always knows best.
Without the familiar mold the group has been stuck in, their own losses, pain, and struggles rise to the surface. And the people and situations they encounter every time they try to sit quietly and knit are taking them a lot further out of their comfort zone than they ever imagined. Can they find the courage to tackle the increasing number of knotty issues they learn about in the community--or will the tangle be too much to unravel?
Sharon Mondragon's debut is warm and delightful, full of real laughter, grief, and personality. It beautifully illustrates the power of women across generations to reach people for Christ.
Margaret, Rose, Jane, and Fran had a good thing going: meet every week in the quiet of their peaceful chapel and knit prayer shawls. No muss, just ministry. That is, until their pastor boots them out of the church in his last-ditch effort to revive the dwindling congregation.
Uptight Margaret isn't having it. Knitting prayer shawls where people can watch is the most ridiculous idea she's ever heard of, and she's heard plenty. Prayer belongs in the church, not out among the heathen masses. How are they supposed to knit holiness into these shawls if they're constantly distracted by the public? But with no choice, the others embrace the challenge. They pack their knitting bags and drag Margaret--grumbling the whole way--to the mall with them. She can't wait to prove them all wrong when it fails miserably, and show the pastor that she always knows best.
Without the familiar mold the group has been stuck in, their own losses, pain, and struggles rise to the surface. And the people and situations they encounter every time they try to sit quietly and knit are taking them a lot further out of their comfort zone than they ever imagined. Can they find the courage to tackle the increasing number of knotty issues they learn about in the community--or will the tangle be too much to unravel?
Sharon Mondragon's debut is warm and delightful, full of real laughter, grief, and personality. It beautifully illustrates the power of women across generations to reach people for Christ.
My review:
This was a wonderful, inspiring story about a group of ladies who get out of their comfort zone and see what a difference they and their prayers can make! It was amusing to see some of the situations that transpired and especially the reactions of Margaret, the group leader and resident sourpuss. As these ladies prayed for and helped the people they met, from a young unwed mother with piercings to a stubborn bookstore manager to a lady grieving the loss of her father, they found themselves helped, too, and challenged to deal with some of their own unresolved issues. I liked that each lady was in a different place in life as it made their situations more interesting. I loved that prayer was emphasized as we could all be doing more of that! There were some touching moments, too. I would highly recommend this book if you like a unique story !
I received this book free from Read with Audra I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
Go here to enter giveaway!
Tuesday, September 21, 2021
Enjoyable Romance! 'Hangin' By a Moment' - Deep Haven Collection 5 - by Andrea Christianson & Susan May Warren
About the book:
He just wants to erase his past.
The day Jack—formerly Winston Stewart—walked out of jail, he vowed to keep his conviction a secret. After all, it wasn’t like he’d committed a murder. Just a terrible mistake, and he did his time. Now he wants a new life in a sleepy town where no one knows his name. Deep Haven is the perfect place to start over as a chef. The last thing the former pararescue jumper wants is to get involved. But when Boone Buckam—his friend and the one guy he owes for getting him out of the slammer—asks for help, how can Jack refuse?
She can’t seem to escape hers.
Colleen Decker has already escaped evil once—as a teenager, she was kidnapped by a murderer. But she’s put all that behind her as a trauma nurse in Minneapolis. Or maybe not, because a freak mistake in the ER sends her past crashing down on her. She needs a timeout in her hometown of Deep Haven. She doesn’t plan to stay—even when she’s roped into the job of flight nurse for the town’s Crisis Response Team chopper. Colleen’s not sure why she’s drawn to danger, but she’ll be safe enough. After all, she’ll need training, and her teacher is a handsome former pararescue jumper. What could go wrong?
But facing the past might put their future together in jeopardy.
When Jack said he didn’t want to get involved, he especially meant his heart—but being with Colleen feels like a fresh start. He’ll even climb aboard a chopper again, despite his vows. They’re headed for a happy ending…
But secrets never stay buried in a small town. And when disaster strikes one snowy night, they’ll both have to decide if the past will destroy them…or if it just might lead them home.
Cozy up to this perfect Deep Haven drama about discovering a season of second chances.
The day Jack—formerly Winston Stewart—walked out of jail, he vowed to keep his conviction a secret. After all, it wasn’t like he’d committed a murder. Just a terrible mistake, and he did his time. Now he wants a new life in a sleepy town where no one knows his name. Deep Haven is the perfect place to start over as a chef. The last thing the former pararescue jumper wants is to get involved. But when Boone Buckam—his friend and the one guy he owes for getting him out of the slammer—asks for help, how can Jack refuse?
She can’t seem to escape hers.
Colleen Decker has already escaped evil once—as a teenager, she was kidnapped by a murderer. But she’s put all that behind her as a trauma nurse in Minneapolis. Or maybe not, because a freak mistake in the ER sends her past crashing down on her. She needs a timeout in her hometown of Deep Haven. She doesn’t plan to stay—even when she’s roped into the job of flight nurse for the town’s Crisis Response Team chopper. Colleen’s not sure why she’s drawn to danger, but she’ll be safe enough. After all, she’ll need training, and her teacher is a handsome former pararescue jumper. What could go wrong?
But facing the past might put their future together in jeopardy.
When Jack said he didn’t want to get involved, he especially meant his heart—but being with Colleen feels like a fresh start. He’ll even climb aboard a chopper again, despite his vows. They’re headed for a happy ending…
But secrets never stay buried in a small town. And when disaster strikes one snowy night, they’ll both have to decide if the past will destroy them…or if it just might lead them home.
Cozy up to this perfect Deep Haven drama about discovering a season of second chances.
My review:
This was another enjoyable romance from the Deep Haven Collection! I love the town of Deep Haven and was thrilled to be back. It was fun to see past characters, though this book acted fine as a stand-alone. Both Colleen and Jack have had hard things in their pasts they want to overcome and don't know if they can get past and that made them question their decisions and judgment. There were some good conversations about faith, though I wished Jack would have explained to Colleen more about how he felt about God and especially about his past sooner. However, I loved how he was a protector and jumped in to help, even when he was having flashbacks because of his past. I felt like Colleen was a little impulsive, especially in how she acted in her relationship with Jack. There were some sweet romantic scenes and some exciting emergency medical ones. I would recommend this book if you like romance.
I received a free kindle copy of this book from JustRead Tours. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
Wednesday, September 15, 2021
Wonderful Start to a New Series! 'Beyond the Tides' - Prince Edward Island Shores 1 - by Liz Johnson
About the book:
When Meg Whitaker's father decides to sell the family's lobster fishing
business to her high school nemesis, she sets out to prove she should
take it over instead. Though she's never had any interest in running the
small fleet--or even getting on a boat due to her persistent
seasickness--she can't stand to see Oliver Ross in charge. Not when he
ruined her dreams for a science scholarship and an Ivy League education
ten years ago.
Oliver isn't proud of what he did back then. Angry and broken by his father walking out on his family, he lashed out at Meg--an innocent bystander. But owning a respected fishing fleet on Prince Edward Island is the opportunity of a lifetime, as well as a way to provide for his mother, and he's not about to walk away just because Meg wants him to.
Meg's father has the perfect solution: Oliver and Meg will work the business together, and at the end of the season, he'll decide who gets it. Along the way, they may discover that their stories are more similar than they thought . . . and their dreams aren't what they expected.
Oliver isn't proud of what he did back then. Angry and broken by his father walking out on his family, he lashed out at Meg--an innocent bystander. But owning a respected fishing fleet on Prince Edward Island is the opportunity of a lifetime, as well as a way to provide for his mother, and he's not about to walk away just because Meg wants him to.
Meg's father has the perfect solution: Oliver and Meg will work the business together, and at the end of the season, he'll decide who gets it. Along the way, they may discover that their stories are more similar than they thought . . . and their dreams aren't what they expected.
My review:
I absolutely loved this book! Meg and Oliver were both wonderful and I loved the love/hate relationship they shared because of a situation in their past. Meg was strong and loved her parents fiercely and would do anything to save her family's legacy. I thought she was crazy myself, especially since she gets really seasick! Oliver had come a long way from the angry teenager he used to be and I loved the care he showed for Meg, from helping her prepare for the work to being a listening ear and being so gentle with her mom. They both had a strong faith, too. The romance was so sweet and I loved the little moments between them. I love Liz Johnson's books because she writes her characters so well, along with the wonderful romance. The setting was gorgeous and I can't wait to visit this wonderful place. I highly recommend this book!
I received a free copy of this book from Revell. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
The Author
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Liz Johnson
Liz Johnson is the author of more than a dozen novels, including A Sparkle of Silver, A Glitter of Gold, The Red Door Inn, Where Two Hearts Meet, and On Love's Gentle Shore, as well as a New York Times bestselling...
Continue reading about Liz Johnson
Tuesday, September 7, 2021
An Absolute Delight! Review & Giveaway of 'Husband Auditions - by Angela Ruth Strong
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Monday, August 30, 2021
Enjoyable Collection! 'This Time Around' - by Denise Hunter, Melissa Ferguson and Kathleen Fuller
About the book:
A Summer Detour
by Denise Hunter
In order to prove herself to her parents, free-spirited Allie Adams undertakes the responsibility of delivering her grandparents’ newly-restored ’57 Chevy for their 50th wedding anniversary party. But an unfortunate oversight forces her to make the road trip with Luke Fletcher, the man who callously broke her heart years ago.
The journey soon dissolves into a series of misfortunes, obliging the antagonistic travelers to spend even more time together. As they overcome challenges and obstacles, they remember the spark that once flared between them. But they must decide if they’re willing to risk their hearts again—or if the personal cost is simply too great.
Pining for You by Melissa Ferguson
Theo Watkins III is a respectable man—the kind who drives a Tesla, not a tractor. But when he discovers that the caretaker of his family-inherited Christmas tree farm is injured during planting season, he drives up to support the man who has been like a father to him.
Three months into her move back to the family farm, Skye Whitesides expected to run into Theo eventually. What she didn’t expect was for Theo to offer up his services for the farm. Not that he has any services—her childhood best friend and the man who broke her heart seventeen years ago wouldn’t know which part of the shovel was the handle. As the two are forced to work together, she finds herself lowering her guard and starting to trust Theo. Is he truly the man she hopes him to be, or will he break her heart again?
He Loves Me; He Loves Me Not by Kathleen Fuller
Thirty-five-year-old Sophie has spent years making her floral shop, Petals and Posies, a success, and her love life has suffered. She’s avoided romance since her ex broke her heart, but now she’s ready to start dating again.
Joe, also thirty-five, has known Sophie since kindergarten, but sparks have never flown between them. He’s finally decided to get back into the dating pool after spending the past fifteen years coaching, teaching, and working with underprivileged kids. He decides to ask out Sophie. But to his dismay, someone else is also vying for her attention.
Should Sophie listen to Joe—and her heart? Or should she take a chance with Landon, the slick lawyer she’s also attracted to? Will Joe, who hates conflict, do the easy thing and let Sophie and Landon be together? Or force himself out of his comfort zone because he is unable to let her go?
In order to prove herself to her parents, free-spirited Allie Adams undertakes the responsibility of delivering her grandparents’ newly-restored ’57 Chevy for their 50th wedding anniversary party. But an unfortunate oversight forces her to make the road trip with Luke Fletcher, the man who callously broke her heart years ago.
The journey soon dissolves into a series of misfortunes, obliging the antagonistic travelers to spend even more time together. As they overcome challenges and obstacles, they remember the spark that once flared between them. But they must decide if they’re willing to risk their hearts again—or if the personal cost is simply too great.
Pining for You by Melissa Ferguson
Theo Watkins III is a respectable man—the kind who drives a Tesla, not a tractor. But when he discovers that the caretaker of his family-inherited Christmas tree farm is injured during planting season, he drives up to support the man who has been like a father to him.
Three months into her move back to the family farm, Skye Whitesides expected to run into Theo eventually. What she didn’t expect was for Theo to offer up his services for the farm. Not that he has any services—her childhood best friend and the man who broke her heart seventeen years ago wouldn’t know which part of the shovel was the handle. As the two are forced to work together, she finds herself lowering her guard and starting to trust Theo. Is he truly the man she hopes him to be, or will he break her heart again?
He Loves Me; He Loves Me Not by Kathleen Fuller
Thirty-five-year-old Sophie has spent years making her floral shop, Petals and Posies, a success, and her love life has suffered. She’s avoided romance since her ex broke her heart, but now she’s ready to start dating again.
Joe, also thirty-five, has known Sophie since kindergarten, but sparks have never flown between them. He’s finally decided to get back into the dating pool after spending the past fifteen years coaching, teaching, and working with underprivileged kids. He decides to ask out Sophie. But to his dismay, someone else is also vying for her attention.
Should Sophie listen to Joe—and her heart? Or should she take a chance with Landon, the slick lawyer she’s also attracted to? Will Joe, who hates conflict, do the easy thing and let Sophie and Landon be together? Or force himself out of his comfort zone because he is unable to let her go?
My review:
I enjoyed these stories that were sometimes funny, sometimes sweet but ultimately about forgiveness and second chances. There was plenty of romantic moments, misunderstandings and crazy situations. These stories were never boring! There really wasn't any element of faith to them but all were clean reads. These stories are all stand-alones but I noticed at least two are related to other books by the authors, which was a fun surprise as I hadn't known that beforehand. Overall, these are fun, sweet romances I recommend if you're looking for a happily-ever-after!
I received a free kindle copy of this book from Netgalley. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own.
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