{Book Review:} The Sound of Silver by Rachelle Rea

My Review:

(Quick side note... I apologize for my absence! My new husband and I made a big move in August and we're still settling in.)

This book is incredible!! I thoroughly enjoyed The Sound of Diamonds, the first in this series, but I was unprepared for how much I would enjoy it's sequel!

Silver picks up right where we left off in Diamonds. Boy, does the story pick up speed! Rea throws us in the heat of the action fairly soon into the pages. Her pacing, the story line, and the historic elements to this novel were simply fantastic and worthy of applause. As I read, I could see the story unfolding in my mind. It was absolutely beautiful!

My favorite thing about this novel would probably be Gwyn's character development. She truly changes in a realistic manner. Rea takes her from point A in Diamonds, to now point B at the end of Silver. I'm eagerly looking forward to how she takes Gwyn to point C in Emeralds!

If you like historical novels with a little bit of action and adventure thrown in, I would highly encourage you to check out this series. You won't regret it! Rea is a shining new novelist that you won't want to miss. Trust me. ;-)

Back Cover:
The stalwart saint and the redeemed rebel. One is fighting for faith, the other for honor…

After Dirk rescues Gwyneth from the Iconoclastic Fury, she discovers that faith is sometimes fragile—and hope is not as easy as it may seem. Gwyneth continues her quest to learn more about the love of God preached by Protestants she once distrusted.

Meanwhile, Dirk’s quest is to prevent his sullied name from staining hers. Will his choice to protect her prove the undoing of her first faltering steps toward a Father God? Once separated, will Dirk and Gwyneth’s searching hearts ever sing the same song?

{COVER REVEAL!} The Sound of Silver by Rachelle Rea

Eeep!!! I'm delighted to share with you all today the gorgeous, fantastic cover of Rachelle's next novel, The Sound of Silver, which was designed by the awesome Roseanna White. :)

So are you all ready?

Drumroll, please!

Isn't it beautiful!?!?!

Back Cover

The stalwart saint and the redeemed rebel. One is fighting for faith, the other for honor…

After Dirk rescues Gwyneth from the Iconoclastic Fury, she discovers that faith is sometimes fragile—and hope is not as easy as it may seem. Gwyneth continues her quest to learn more about the love of God preached by Protestants she once distrusted.

Meanwhile, Dirk’s quest is to prevent his sullied name from staining hers. Will his choice to protect her prove the undoing of her first faltering steps toward a Father God? Once separated, will Dirk and Gwyneth’s searching hearts ever sing the same song?

The Sound of Silver will be released this fall! Soon our impatient imaginations will be satisfied!

About the Author

Rachelle Rea plots her novels while driving around the little town she’s lived in all her life in her dream car, a pick-up truck. As a freelance editor, she enjoys mentoring fellow authors in the craft. A homeschool graduate and retired gymnast, she wrote the Sound of Diamonds the summer after her sophomore year of college.

{Book Review:} The Sound of Diamonds by Rachelle Rea

My Review:
Wowza!
Are you seeking a historical romance novel to send you back in time? A book to make you sigh and smile? The Sound of Diamonds is the book for you! This novel is a beautiful debut from the lovely Rachelle Rea and it is sure to please historical fans.

I was sucked into the story after only a few pages. The character voices of Dirk and Gwyneth are distinct and carry you through the story well. There were a couple times I wasn't paying one-hundred percent attention and might have gotten a little confused but...it was my own fault. ;-) Honestly, I loved the artistry of words in this novel. The reading experience was completely captivating! I definitely would read this one again. And now I eagerly await the release of a sequel...

One of my favorite things about this novel was the theme of hope and the message that God wants more than your actions, He wants your heart. This really impacted me most out of the whole story, primarily because I had just been marveling at that myself. So, with that all said, I can easily recommend this book to anyone into historical, young adult, and romance genres. This debut is simply amazing so go check it out!

I received a free ebook copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thank you, Rachelle!

Back Cover:
Her only chance of getting home is trusting the man she hates.

With the protestant Elizabeth on the throne of England and her family in shambles, Catholic maiden Gwyneth seeks refuge in the Low Countries of Holland, hoping to soothe her aching soul. But when the Iconoclastic Fury descends and bloodshed overtakes her haven, she has no choice but to trust the rogue who arrives, promising to see her safely home to her uncle's castle. She doesn't dare to trust him...and yet doesn't dare to refuse her one chance to preserve her own life and those of the nuns she rescues from the burning convent.

Dirk Godfrey is determined to restore his honor at whatever cost. Running from a tortured past, Dirk knows he has only one chance at redemption, and it lies with the lovely Gwyneth, who hates him for the crimes she thinks he committed. He must see her to safety, prove to the world that he is innocent, prove that her poor eyesight is not the only thing that has blinded her but what is he to do when those goals clash?

The home Gwyneth knew is not what she once thought. When a dark secret and a twisted plot for power collide in a castle masquerading as a haven, the saint and the sinner must either dare to hold to hope...or be overcome.

{Book Review:} Heart Sisters by Natalie Snapp {Litfuse Blog Tour!}

My Review:
A touching, truth-filled, non-fiction release!

Oh my goodness. This book has blessed me tremendously. So much that, I'll be purchasing a copy or two to share with my friends! Natalie is honest- oops, I'm sorry, candid ;-)- and explains friendships in a caring way. The whole reading experience leaves you feel like you're sitting at a coffee shop, talking with her.

Are there points you want to duck your head in shame? Yeah... We've all made mistakes in our relationships with other people. But as Natalie says, "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." (Rom. 8:1 Emphasis, mine.) Furthermore, Natalie walks you through a poor "Heart Sister" relationship and then an ideal "Heart Sister" relationship. She handles so many topics, from forgiveness to training your daughter to be a great friend to others. She does this so well and she really helped me out.

So, ladies, what are you doing still reading my review?? GO BUY Heart Sisters right now and then make it a priority to read it. Take your time because there's a lot of truth to sink in. Read it all the way to the end and then (if you don't want to read it a second time) find someone to lend/give your copy to. This is the kind of book that needs passed on. I am so thankful I signed up for this one!

I received an ebook copy of this book from Litfuse in exchange for a review of my honest opinions, which I have done. Thanks!!

About the book:
Heart Sisters (Abingdon, April 2015)

Heart Sisters is for women who want to both be and have better friends and want a helpful guide to take them through the process.

Author Natalie Chambers Snapp uses her own and others' stories of successes and failures to illustrate what she has learned about girlfriend relationships. Healthy boundaries, honesty, tact, sharing, and agape love all play a part in being and maintaining a circle of close confidants. She also deals with the inevitable challenges that face many relationships including how to handle conflict; life changes like a new baby, move or divorce; and when it is right to "break-up" with your friend.

Discussion questions, space to journal, photos, and quick interviews of healthy female friendships are included within each chapter.

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1GKJTIQ

Want to be a better friend and have better friends? Natalie Chambers Snapp wrote Heart Sisters just for you! She uses her own and others’ stories of successes and failures to illustrate what she has learned about girlfriend relationships. Discussion questions, space to journal, photos, and quick interviews of healthy female friendships are included within each chapter.

Help Natalie celebrate the release of her new book by entering to win goodies you'll need for a girls' night out with your heart sister!


One grand prize winner will receive:

• A $100 Visa cash card to put toward a nice dinner or lodging
• A copy of Heart Sisters
• A manicure kit
• A summery polish
• A disposable camera (to document your fun)
• A clutch

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 17th. Winner will be announced May 18th on Natalie's blog.

{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

{Book Review}: The Thorn Bearer by Pepper Basham

My Review: 
A moving, incredible story!

Set in 1915, The Thorn Bearer follows Ashleigh and Sam on their journey to emotional healing. Both individuals have not had it easy growing up, though in different ways. Both also have scars that are not easily forgotten. This is where the beauty of this story comes out. Ashleigh and Sam's struggles are real and relatable. Readers can sympathize and understand, which is valuable in a story.

The theme of forgiveness is beautifully done. Some may think this theme is overdone in fiction, but I disagree. We need to be reminded just how important the act of forgiveness is. This book isn't preachy or in your face, but it does show the consequences of harboring bitterness instead of forgiving. It also presents the freedom that's found in forgiveness. The Thorn Bearer simply does an excellent job all around.

Overall, I was impressed. It's an easy read and the story drives you forward, making it effortless to turn pages. I can safely recommend this book to lovers of historical fiction, ages seventeen and up. You can't go wrong by checking this one out!

I received this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thanks!

Back Cover:
Ashley Dougall has a terminal disease and forgiveness is the only cure.

Ashley Dougall’s father stole her innocence, her selfish fiancé stole her heart, and unforgiveness is slowly stealing her life. Drawn by the desire to help others, she tries to escape haunting memories and enlists her services as a nurse in war-torn Europe. Along with her childhood friend and fiance’s brother, Samuel Miller, the fragile threads holding Ashley’s life in place one-by-one begin to snap. From the deck of the ill-fated Lusitania to the smoke-filled trenches of WWI, Ashley must choose between forgiveness of the past, life in the present, and a Savior who is willing to help her face them both.

{Book Review:} Every Bride Needs a Groom by Janice Thompson

My Review:
Another amusing release from Thompson!

In Every Bride Needs a Groom, Thompson takes us to small-town Fairfield, Texas. I was saddened to leave Galveston, but Thompson makes up for it through a few cameos of beloved characters. In this new little town, it was easy to find new, fun, characters to bring a smile to my face, like Queenie, Alva, and Madge...just to name a few. ;-) In many ways, the new setting of Fairfield and Dallas was refreshing and I loved it.

Katie Fisher, our lead heroine, falls into the same trap that many young women do today. She started planning her wedding before she officially had a groom. Not that there's anything wrong with that. However, entering a giveaway on an presumption, Katie finds herself as the winner of a bridal gown and the ex-girlfriend of Casey. Throughout the rest of the story, I watched Katie grow and acclimate to the changes in her life. The greatest message that stood out to me was to not fear change. Change is good, and even necessary in some cases. It's a part of life.

Overall, I definitely enjoyed this book, but it didn't quite top some of Thompson's other releases for me. Nevertheless, I look forward to Every Girl Gets Confused! I easily and readily recommend this book to past and new fans of Thompson. You'll laugh, giggle, smile, and all around like it.

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thanks!!

Back Cover:
Small-town girl Katie Fisher is planning her wedding. Sure, her boyfriend hasn't managed to pop the question just yet, but that doesn't mean she shouldn't enter a contest in "Texas Bride" magazine to win the dress of her dreams, right? But when her boyfriend breaks up with her and takes a job in another town--the very same day Katie wins her dream dress--her world is turned upside down. Should she claim her prize? And will the hunky former pro-basketball player who runs the swanky Dallas bridal shop--yeah, you read that right--catch on to her humiliation if she does?

Janice Thompson designs a romance sure to delight, with plenty of fish-out-of-water moments, a hilarious supporting cast, and more of the wedding biz world her readers adore.

Click the image to be taken to the giveaway page! 

The Heart of Adventure Sweepstakes!!

Hey, everyone! You do NOT want to miss out on this sweet giveaway! Check out my review of the featured book here. 

In SABOTAGED, the fifth and final book of author Dani Pettrey’s award-winning Alaskan Courage series, Kirra Jacobs and Reef McKenna experience the high stakes of Iditarod search-and-rescue when Kirra’s uncle, a musher in the race, goes missing.

Kirra and Reef put aside their differences to search for him, but what they discover is harrowing: Frank’s daughter Meg has been kidnapped, and Frank must do the kidnapper’s bidding or Meg will die.

Soon Kirra, Reef, and the entire McKenna family are thrown into a race to stop a shadowy villain who is not only threatening a girl’s life, but appears willing to unleash one of the largest disasters Alaska has ever seen.

To celebrate their epic race, Dani and Bethany House Publishers are pleased to present the HEART OF ADVENTURE SWEEPSTAKES, and your chance to win one of three marvelous prizes, all closely connected to the story.

There are so many fun prizes involved, take a look!

GRAND PRIZE:
LUXURIOUS LODGE GETAWAY
During their cross-country hunt for answers, Kirra and Reef stop to rest at a gorgeous mountain lodge in Denali that holds special memories for Reef. This prize offers you a chance to build your own special memories, with a luxurious lodge getaway for two.

Our Grand Prize winner will receive: A $250 gift certificate to Hotels.com, good for reservations at lodges and hotels across the Continental US, Alaska, Hawaii, and numerous International locations

SECOND PRIZE:
PALS WITH PAWS DONATION

In the Alaskan Courage series, Kirra is the proud owner of Nanook Haven, a rescue shelter for sled dogs. In real life, animals need rescue as well, and this prize will allow you to give a special gift to support an organization like Kirra’s.

Our Second Prize winner will receive: A $150 donation in your name, to the animal rescue, shelter, or veterinarian of your choice

THIRD PRIZE:
SWEETHEART SURVIVAL SLED
In SABOTAGED, Kirra and Reef take shelter in a snow cave while hiding from a man determined to put them on ice– permanently! Luckily, Kirra has a survival kit, to help them make it through the sub-zero temperatures.
If you prefer a little more romance and a little less suspense in your survival kit, this is the prize for you.

Our Third Prize winner will receive: A $100 value sweetheart survival pack. This gift basket includes double chocolate raspberry cake, smoked salmon, brie cheese and crackers, and a wide variety of gourmet snacks

Are you excited yet? I am! Go here to find out how to enter: http://www.danipettrey.com/heart-of-adventure-sweepstakes/ and complete the entry box, anytime between February 2 – 22, 2015. Winners will be announced on Dani's blog the day after the giveaway closes. What are you still reading this for? Go enter! ;-) Thanks for stopping by!

{Giveaway!! +Book Review:} Sabotaged by Dani Pettrey

My Review:
Wow! What an ending to a fantastic series!

I am so thrilled to have had the opportunity to read and review Sabotaged, especially as I finish up these last few busy months of college. That said, I am a huge fan of the McKenna family and I am extremely sad to say goodbye. I've enjoyed all five books spent with each McKenna member and I'm thrilled that they each have their own "happily ever after." There is a certain bond that forms through spending a series of books with a fictional family. They grow on you. You learn their quirks, their fears... You become that invisible family member that laughs and cries alongside them.

That all having been said, this installment of the series is a wonderful farewell. From page one you're immediately thrust into the action and mystery. The thrill of the adventure is just where it starts. The tender, growing friendship-turned-romance between Reef and Kirra is sweet and not overdone. Pettrey will keep you on your toes, making you second guess everything until the closing chapters. It's a perfect thriller/mystery for the suspense crowd, yet not so intense to drive away the romance fans. For those who have read the prior books, you won't be disappointed!! And for new fans, I encourage you to read Submerged as soon as possible, whether that means before or after reading Sabotaged.

I can easily recommend this book for both readability and content to young adults, 17 and older. The fun of reading this book is really increased if you have read the previous novels/adventures but it is not necessary and the novel can stand alone. Happy reading!!

I received an influencer copy of this book from the author, Dani Pettrey, in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thank you!

Back Cover:
Growing up, goody-two-shoes Kirra Jacobs and troublemaker Reef McKenna were always at odds. Now paired together on Yancey's search-and-rescue canine unit, they begin to put aside old arguments as they come to see each other in a different light. Then a call comes in from the Iditarod that will push them to their limits.

Kirra's uncle, a musher in the race, has disappeared. Kirra and Reef quickly track the man, but what they discover is harrowing. Frank's daughter has been kidnapped. In order to save her, the man must use his knowledge as a mechanical engineer to do the kidnapper's bidding or she will die. Kirra and Reef, along with the entire McKenna family, are thrown into a race to stop a shadowy villain who is not only threatening a girl's life, but appears willing to unleash one of the largest disasters Alaska has ever seen.

About the Author:
Dani Pettrey is a wife, home-schooling mom, and the acclaimed author of the romantic suspense series Alaskan Courage, which includes her bestselling novels Submerged, Shattered, Stranded, Silenced, and her latest release,Sabotaged. She feels blessed to write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things she loves–the thrill of adventure, nail biting suspense, the deepening of her characters’ faith, and plenty of romance. She and her husband reside in Maryland, where they enjoy time with their daughters, son-in-law, and super-adorable grandson.

Also, I am personally giving away a free copy of Sabotaged! Enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. 

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Action Kids' Club Blog Tour! {Guest Post!}

Hey everyone! About a month ago, Lydia Howe reached out to me about doing a guest post to promote her new book, Action Kids' Club, here on the blog. Of course, I said yes. Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the bottom! Enjoy!! :-)

Action Kids’ Club Back Cover Blurb:

Twelve-year-old Olivia Hall’s dream of a friends' club ends when she finds out her family is moving. Her parents assure her it's a good thing, opening a new world of possibilities for the Halls. But going from ‘miss popular’ to ‘the new girl’ won’t be easy, and Olivia is not convinced.

Soon she begins to realize that although her life has suddenly changed, there's plenty of adventure to keep her on her toes. From making new friends at Forward Focus, to hanging out at the world-renowned Kids Zone, to meeting the curious head chef, she discovers that there's much more to life - and her new surroundings - than she ever imagined. How will she make the most of these new opportunities? Or will she let them slip away?

About the Author:
Lydia Howe (aka Aidyl Ewoh) is a twenty-something adventurous author who enjoys hiking in the mountains of Asia and South America, building life-size models of dinosaurs, taking road trips across Europe and cooking for large crowds.

Lydia grew up in a barn and has always dreamed of living in a tipi. She is trained as a John Maxwell coach and her passions include self-development and Christian apologetics. One of her life-long dreams was realized when her first book, “Cave Secrets of the Pterodactyl”, was published by Answers in Genesis in 2013. Her second book, “Action Kids’ Club” was published in November of 2014. Find her online at her Blog, Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Goodreads and Pinterest.

Here's Lydia!

Wow! We are already on day 5 of the blog tour celebrating the release of the first book in my Action Kids series. Read the post from yesterday here and find out more about Action Kids by clicking here.

The answer to yesterday’s riddle is: Always give people more than they expect to get. -Nelson Boswell

For Today:

“A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.”
― Winston S. Churchill

“We often miss opportunity because it's dressed in overalls and looks like work”
― Thomas A. Edison

“I will prepare and some day my chance will come.”
― Abraham Lincoln

Opportunity: “A set of circumstances that make it possible to do something.”

Everyone gets opportunities in life. Some choose to grab onto them, some let them slide on by. I’m learning about grabbing onto them and boy does that make life more exciting! In Action Kids' Club Grandpa Don teaches the kids that they’re never too young to start looking for and working toward opportunities.

Grandpa Don led us into a building and then down a wide hallway, through an outer office to a door that had a sign nailed to it. 

Start Today—Don’t Delay! 

Tilting my head, I read the words.

“What does that mean?” Alex asked, pointing at it.

“That helps me remember to not procrastinate. When I have an opportunity, I need to seize it.” Grandpa Don opened the door, and we all filed in.

“An opportunity for what?” I asked, and then I remembered I was talking to the boss so I added, "Sir."

“For lots of things. An opportunity to start eating healthfully. An opportunity to work on a new project. An opportunity to spend time with my family. So many people waste time each day and eventually end up wasting a lot of their lives because they don’t grab onto opportunities when they have the chance. God created each of us with the ability to do great things, and I want to make sure I don’t waste the talent He’s given me.”

“It doesn’t matter when you’re young though, right?” I asked. Grandpa Don’s office was flooded with sunlight, making the whole room look spectacular. I tried to keep my attention on him though. After all, he was talking to me and he was the president.

“What makes you think that?” Grandpa Don asked.

Huh? I had no clue. It just seemed like since I was a kid, I should get grace or second chances or something like that. “I’m not sure.” I shrugged my shoulders, wishing I had come up with a better answer. (Action Kids’ Club p.12)

Today YOU get an opportunity to enter into a drawing to win your very own signed copy of Action Kids' Club, hot off the press, plus a personalized packet of Action Kids fun-stuff, including an Action Kids pad of paper, Action Kids bookmarks and more!

And here’s your quote puzzle for today. Figure it out and leave the answer in the comments section and you’ll be entered into a drawing for a great prize! And, find out about the $50 gift card giveaway that I’m hosting over at my blog.
(Answer Key)

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z A B C

(Riddle)

Surfudvwlqdwlrq lv rssruwxqlwbv dvvdvvlq. -Victor Kiam

Make sure you check out this blog tomorrow for the answer to the riddle and the next stop on the blog tour. Thanks for stopping by!

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A Bouquet of Love by Janice Thompson {Revell Blog Tour!}

My Review:
Fans new and old will LOVE this new release from Thompson!

In A Bouquet of Love, our main character's, "obsession" is Judy Garland. Cassia is constantly humming a Judy Garland song or remembering a scene from a Judy Garland movie. This, of course, brought up fond memories of her movie with Fred Astaire, Easter Parade. What I particularly loved about this novel by Thompson was the fresh, outside look at the Rossi clan.

Cassia and her, fun, crazy Greek family heavily remind me of a certain Italian family I have come to love. Their quirks and traditions of course, vary from the Rossis; nevertheless, their core values are the same. In many ways I hope this is not the last book in the Weddings by Design series. I would love the chance to get to know Cassia's family better as well as spend more time with the other beloved characters we've come to know (Scarlet, Hannah, Drew, Gabi, etc.).

All in all, if you're looking for a comedy to brighten your day and a underlying message to encourage you, then this book is for you. If you haven't already done so, I highly recommend you look into Ms. Thompson's other books and series. Thompson's books repeatedly bring a smile to my face. Now I begin the wait for her next book... I recommend to readers fifteen and older. This is a "romance" novel, though in my opinion, romance is not the focus. I would like to publicly offer my sincerest apologies to Revell and Ms. Thompson for the late review. I'm coming off a long trip and I got the tour dates mixed up.

I received this book from Revell in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thanks!!

Back Cover:
Cassia Pappas has found herself in a nearly impossible situation. She wants to spend her time immersed in her new job at a Galveston Island floral shop, arranging blooms and brightening occasions with her lovely creations. But her huge Greek family–especially her father–has other ideas. They’ve all relocated to Galveston to open up a new family restaurant location on the Strand– directly across the street from the Rossis’ popular pizza place–and they want Cassia’s full participation.

To make matters worse, as Cassia is trying to develop a strong professional relationship with Galveston’s premier wedding coordinator, Bella Neeley, her own father is intent on stealing all of the Rossi family’s faithful customers. Not exactly the best way to get into Bella’s good graces!

Still, at least Alex, that hot delivery guy from the nursery, is always hanging around the flower shop . . .
Fan favorite Janice Thompson gives readers one more romp with Bella, Galveston, and the bustling wedding biz in the final installment of her popular series. Anyone who loves quirky families, loads of laughter, and tender romance will find themselves hooked.

In Perfect Time by Sarah Sundin {Revell Blog Tour!}

My Review:
Venture to the 1940s with Sundin's masterpiece!

I love, love, love Ms. Sundin's WWII novels. She stays true to history, making you feel like you've traveled through time. Her characters are so well rounded. They each have aspirations, fears, and their own journey to go on. It's been fun and interesting to watch the nurses grow together and view things from their different perspectives in the different books. It's crazy to think some of the early events in In Perfect Time {3} coincide with events late in On Distant Shores {2}. For certain, if a new reader picked up this novel, they hopefully wouldn't be confused. Sundin does a great job of explaining what's going on with the other nurses. You can definitely read these as stand-alone or out-of-order.

Let's talk about Kay for just a minute. Wow. I did NOT like her back in With Every Letter {1}. She has come such a long way and transformed mightily. I never thought she'd become close friends with Mellie and Georgie. Yet Kay made proactive changes in her life and by the end of In Perfect Time, the threesome are inseparable. I also loved getting Kay's backstory. It really explained a lot about how she acted and so forth.

Overall, you can't miss this book! I loved the emphasis on God's timing and the overall happiness that can be found inside the pages. If you're a World War 2 history nut, you'll really enjoy this series but I'll bet you'll love the characters even more. I can highly recommend this novel to readers who enjoy both romance and a historical setting. I recommend to ages sixteen and up. :-)

I received this book from Revell in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thanks!

Back Cover:
Bold, sophisticated, and flirtatious, Army Air Force flight nurse Lt. Kay Jobson collects hearts wherever she flies, leaving men pining in airfields all across Europe. So how can ruggedly handsome C-47 pilot Lt. Roger Cooper be all but immune to her considerable charms? In fact, he seems to do everything he can to avoid her.

Still, as they cross the skies between Italy and southern France, evacuating the wounded and delivering paratroopers and supplies, every beat of their hearts draws them closer to where they don't want to go. Can they confront the fears and misunderstandings in their pasts?

When I Fall in Love by Susan May Warren {Litfuse Blog Tour!}

My Review:
An endearing, sweet release from Warren!

I have loved every second spent with the Christiansen family, and let me say, When I Fall in Love is really close to topping Take a Chance on Me. Honestly, Grace and Max were amazing and their story reminded me how much I love Ms. Warren's books! Not to mention most of their story unfolds on the beaches of Hawaii? And who doesn't love that idea? I admit, though, I'd react to the long plane ride much like Grace does...

But moving on, I was pleasantly surprised by the depth and personality inside Max, Grace, Casper, and even Raina. Out of the characters I've named, I think Max is my favorite. His struggles and his fears came across the page and struck me. I sympathized for him more than the other characters. In a similar way, I felt like I related to Grace more. While we do not share many of the same traits, there are a few that we have in common, and it's enough to endear me to her.

I love how as Ms. Warren tells one story, she begins another. It makes the story world feel almost 3-D. While something is happening with Raina and Casper, we know that Max and Grace are having fun doing something in Hawaii. It adds a realistic touch to the whole novel and it doesn't give only two characters the spotlight.

All this said, I easily recommend this novel to fans of Ms. Warren's other work and fans of the age fifteen or older. If you're looking for a relaxing, sweet book to read during the afternoon, When I Fall in Love is an excellent choice.

I received this book from Tyndale through Litfuse in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thanks!!

Back Cover:
Hawaii was the last place Grace Christiansen ever imagined she’d vacation, much less fall in love. But when her family surprises her with a cooking retreat in paradise, she is pulled—or maybe yanked—away from her predictable, safe life and thrown headfirst into the adventure of a lifetime.

Max Sharpe may make his living on the ice as a pro hockey player, but he feels most at home in the kitchen. Which is why he lives for the three-week culinary vacation he takes each year in Hawaii. Upon being paired with Grace for a cooking competition, Max finds himself drawn to her passion, confidence, and perseverance. But just when Grace dares to dream of a future beyond her hometown, Max pulls away.

Wrestling with personal demons, Max fights against opening his heart to a love he knows he should never hope for. And as his secrets unfold, Grace is torn between the safe path in front of her and what her heart truly desires. If love means sacrificing her ideal happily ever after, Grace’s faith will face its toughest test yet.
Susan May Warren's newest book in the Christiansen Family Collection, When I Fall In Love,  has won over readers' and critics' hearts alike. With critical reviews like, ". . . an exquisite romance. Profoundly touching on the topic of facing fears, this book is a true gem," and more than 60 five-star reviews at Amazon, When I Fall in Love is sure to please.

Susan has teamed up with some amazing food bloggers for a fun food challenge and a KitchenAid Mixer giveaway!

  One grand prize winner will receive:

• A KitchenAid Mixer
• The first three books in the Christiansen Family Collection.
• Melissa Ringstaff’s Kitchen Planner
• Jackie Brown's Freezer Inventory sheet

Grab your aprons and wire whisks and buzz on over to the When I Fall in Love website to learn more and enter the Hawaiian Chef Showdown! Susan is challenging you to make a Hawaiian-inspired dish using coconut, mango, or one of the other ingredients mentioned in the book. You’ll get extra points for creating your own recipe—plus she might share it on the When I Fall in Love site! Or if you're not up for an adventure in the kitchen just click one of the icons below for easy entry.

Hurry, the giveaway ends on August 10th. All winners will be announced August 13th at Susan's blog.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to visit Susan's blog on the 13th to see if you won!

In the Field of Grace by Tessa Afshar {CFBA Blog Tour!}

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing In The Field of Grace River North; New Edition edition (July 1, 2014) by Tessa Afshar

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

TESSA AFSHAR was voted "New Author of the Year" by the Family Fiction sponsored Reader's Choice Award 2011 for her novel Pearl in the Sand. She was born in Iran, and lived there for the first fourteen years of her life. She moved to England where she survived boarding school for girls and fell in love with Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte, before moving to the United States permanently. Her conversion to Christianity in her twenties changed the course of her life forever. Tessa holds an MDiv from Yale University where she served as co-chair of the Evangelical Fellowship at the Divinity School. She has spent the last thirteen years in full-time Christian work.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Destitute, grief-stricken, and unwanted by the people of God, Ruth arrives in Israel with nothing to recommend her but Naomi's love. Her loftiest hope is to provide enough food to save Naomi and herself from starvation.

But God has other plans for her life. While everyone considers Ruth an outcast, she is astounded to find one of the most honored men of Judah showing her favor.  Long since a widower and determined to stay that way, Boaz is irresistibly drawn to the foreign woman with the haunted eyes. He tells himself he is only being kind to his Cousin Naomi's chosen daughter when he goes out of his way to protect her from harm, but his heart knows better.

Based on the biblical account of Ruth, In the Field of Grace is the story of a love that ultimately changes the course of Israel's destiny and the future of the whole world.

If you would like to read the first chapter of In The Field of Grace, go HERE.

My Review: 
Oh, my! Another amazing release from Tessa Afshar!!

I have loved every book I've read by Ms. Afshar, and this one is no exception! To make things even better, she writes about Ruth and Boaz in In the Field of Grace! The story of Ruth is a long time favorite of mine. I was so thrilled to discover that's who I'd be reading about. I love how Ms. Afshar tries to stay true to the Bible while also threading in fiction where there are gaps or "loose ends" in the story. She did this in a truly amazing way.

I loved how she characterized Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz. She fleshed them out, gave them dreams, gave them fears... In essence, she breathed life into them. One day when I'm in Heaven I'm going to ask Ruth to tell me her story. (As well as ask many other people, but I digress...) It wouldn't surprise me if Ruth reveals many of the same emotions that Ms. Afshar portrays in the story. It's beautifully done. This is another book that will have a permanent place on my shelf to be re-read, and lent to people who I think need the story brought to life. I'm very picky with what Biblical fiction I read, but I'm proud to say Tessa Afshar's works have made the cut. ;-) I recommend this novel to fans of Biblical fiction anywhere from adults to the teenagers of fifteen.

I received this book from River North through CFBA in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thanks!!

Death Takes a Ride by Lorena McCourtney {Revell Blog Tour!}

My Review:
Another great addition to the Cate Kinkaid Files!!

After loving the previous books spent with Cate, Mitch, and Octavia, I couldn't help myself when the opportunity arose to review Death Takes a Ride. Once again, Ms. McCourtney exceeds expectations as she rises above the common cliches associated with murder-mysteries. Nothing comes easily to Cate. Some might shrug at this, but this truly is what makes this series, particularly Cate, stand out over the ones where the main character always has that convenient friend.

Cate grows a little bit more in each book and I'm always excited to spend some time with the tomato-red head. Her quirks and her cat, Octavia really grow on you. Cate comes through so clearly that, though the book is written in third person, there were times I had to remind myself it wasn't first person! I really hope this isn't the last we see of Cate and Mitch (especially after that ending!!), because I would love to read another book.

When I sit down to read a mystery, my biggest concern is whether or not I'll be surprised with the ending. This time, I was not surprised but that didn't detract at all from the experience for me. Instead, I felt more of a "I knew it!" avalanche of excitement rather than a "Drat. I was right." disappointment. As I stated earlier in the review, I hope there's another book!!

I recommend this novel to readers who enjoy a more relaxed mystery novel over the common suspense/thriller. Things to know: a character is killed by being impaled in the head. I think readers should be at least fifteen or sixteen before diving into this novel.

I received this book from Revell in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thanks!!

Back Cover:
Cate Kinkaid arrives at H&B Classic Auto Restorations to give a friend a ride. But, as usual, trouble finds Cate even there--this time in the form of one dead man, one wounded man, and what appears to be a pretty obvious case of self-defense. Owner Matt Halliday wants to hire her, but not for this case. Instead, Cate is charged with finding a man who owns a particular motorcycle Matt would like to buy. As her search progresses, she begins to suspect that the shooting in Matt's office may not have been as cut-and-dried as it appeared.

Blind Trust by Sandra Orchard {Revell Blog Tour!}

My Review:
A thrilling sequel to a mysterious series!

We met Kate Adams in the first book, Deadly Devotion, and now her story continues in Blind Trust. I was really impressed by this sequel! It's been awhile since I've read a series where you stay with the primary characters from the first book. That being said, Orchard's series feels fresh.

If one thing about Kate has been made crystal clear it's this: you don't mess with her friends. As we saw in the book prior to Blind Trust, Kate's dear friend's death was ruled as suicide. Refusing this verdict, Kate set out to discover the truth. In Blind Trust, her kind neighbor, Verna, is accused of counterfeiting. We can all probably guess how Kate reacts to that. This loyalty to people close to her is really admirable, yet is odd when you consider she has problems trusting others. I love how well Orchard has developed Kate this far, and I'm curious to get to know her even better in Book 3.

Detective Parker, or Tom, strives to balance his developing relationship with Kate and his job. Despite his flaws and his imperfections, Tom is a dependable guy for the most part. I loved getting to know his character better in Blind Trust.

Orchard has written a series that leaves you wanting more. There's suspense, mystery, uncertainty, and a slight amount of romance weaved in. I am ever so eager for Book 3's release! June 2015 seems so far away. I recommend this book to readers who enjoy the suspense/mystery genre ages fifteen and up for readability.

I received this book from Revell in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thanks!!

Back Cover:
Kate Adams had no idea she was carrying counterfeit money, and she can't believe that it came from her sweet neighbor. Or that it lands her in the middle of another one of Detective Tom Parker's investigations. Determined to prove her neighbor's innocence, Kate stumbles into a pit of intrigue that is far deeper than a two-bit counterfeit operation--and strikes too close to home for comfort. As family secrets come to light, her world--and her budding romance with Tom--begin to crumble. To Kate, it's clear that she won't be safe until she uncovers all of Port Aster's secrets. But is it too late for her and Tom? 

Award-winning author Sandra Orchard draws readers into a world of rogues, red herrings, and romance as she unfolds the continuing story of amateur sleuth Kate Adams.

{Book Review:} Somebody Like You by Beth K. Vogt

My Review:
Words cannot effectively describe this beautiful story!

It didn't take me long to be reeled in hook, line, and sinker into Somebody Like You. I am thoroughly impressed by Mrs. Vogt's talent, voice, and skill. I'm surprised I haven't picked up one of her books before now! Every aspect of the story felt so real that I had to remind myself it was fictional. You better believe I'm going to track down Mrs. Vogt's other books. ;-)

Haley is a woman who longs to be cared for- even if she doesn't realize it herself. For years and years she has striven to be as good as her brothers. Referred to as "Hal" by all her friends, even her late husband, she was simply "one of the guys." I loved her inner struggles, because they made her human and I understood her fears.

Stephen is a hurting man seeking something. Seeking what exactly, he isn't sure. I admired his compassion and servant's heart, and I appreciated the guilt he has been carrying around for going on a dozen years. In some ways, he was his twin's exact opposite. But, I'll save the details. All around, Stephen is a sigh-worthy lead and not because of his good looks.

To conclude, then, I really, really, really, enjoyed Somebody Like You. Like couldn't-put-it-down good. The plot drew me in and kept me intrigued while Mrs. Vogt's characters pulled at my heart-strings. I also loved how delicately Mrs. Vogt dealt with some issues present in our society. My opinion? You're going to have to read this book for yourself. I highly recommend to readers who enjoy contemporary romance ages sixteen and older for both readability and content.

I received this book for free from the author in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thanks, Mrs. Vogt!! 

Back Cover:
Can a young widow find love again with her husband’s reflection?

Haley’s three-year marriage to Sam, an army medic, ends tragically when he’s killed in Afghanistan. Her attempts to create a new life for herself are ambushed when she arrives home one evening—and finds her husband waiting for her. Did the military make an unimaginable mistake when they told her Sam was killed?

Too late to make things right with his estranged twin brother, Stephen discovers Sam never told Haley about him. As Haley and Stephen navigate their fragile relation­ship, they are inexorably drawn to each other. How can they honor the memory of a man whose death brought them together—and whose ghost could drive them apart?

Somebody Like You is a beautifully rendered, affecting novel, reminding us that while we can’t change the past, we have the choice to change the future and start anew.

About the Author:
Beth K. Vogt believes God’s best often waits behind the doors marked “Never.” A nonfiction writer and editor who said she’d never write fiction, Beth is now a novelist with Howard Books. She enjoys writing inspirational contemporary romance because she believes there’s more to happily-ever-after than the fairy tales tell us. Connect with Beth on her website or check out her blog on quotes, In Others’ Words.

{Book Review:} A Bridge Unbroken by Cathy Bryant

My Review:
Another faith-filled, dramatic romance from Bryant!
We return to Miller's Creek once again watching a new story unfold. I love fictional small towns, and Miller's Creek is no exception. The level of familiarity among residents sets off a warm, homey vibe. I particularly liked how much time we spent inside Miller's Creek Community Church. Instead of the story being one of a character coming to Christ, Bryant made it one of a Christian struggling with forgiveness.

Meet Dakota. Or is it Amy? No, wait, it's A.K. Aston...I think. Haha! Whoever this fiery red-head is, she's a wonderful character and she handles herself well, though sometimes she tends to run away when she's afraid. I loved the fact that she was a writer! I also loved watching her go under a subtle transformation as she spent more time with Chance. Chance is a decent lead/hero. I hated it when he let himself be blindsided by his judgement; however, I liked watching him move past his problems.

As a romance novel, I thought A Bridge Unbroken was great, but compared to other romantic suspense novels I have read, this one falls short. It lacked tension and I didn't feel "on edge" until towards the end. Overall, Bryant does a great job weaving romance and Christianity together without it feeling forced or sounding preachy. I recommend this novel to followers of the Miller's Creek series and those looking for a romance novel to read in an afternoon, fifteen years or older.

A big thank you to Mrs. Bryant for sending me a PDF review copy for free in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. 

Back Cover:
Letting go to build a bridge…
Dakota Kelly wants her painful past to disappear. A plan to start afresh is derailed when she co-inherits her late grandfather’s farm with Chance Johnson, the man responsible for the scars on her heart. But Chance isn’t the only ghost from the past. Someone else is out to get her and will stop at nothing to get what he wants. Will Chance and Dakota lay aside their grudges to restore the old farmhouse and bridge, or will evil forces sabotage their attempt at forgiveness?

Fatal Exchange by Lisa Harris {Revell Blog Tour!}

My Review:
A thrilling, captivating mystery!

What a roller coaster ride! Once you start reading Fatal Exchange the pace picks up and never slows. I loved that. There's nothing quite like curling up on a rainy day with an awesome mystery book and Fatal Exchange fit the bill. I was completely enthralled into the story and was lost in its pages for a couple hours, hardly able to set the book down.

I did not read the previous book in this series, nonetheless, I didn't feel like I was missing anything. It can definitely be read as a stand-alone. I will say, after I tore through Fatal Exchange, I'll be going back to find Dangerous Passage for certain. Harris writes in a fluid style that leaves you turning pages.

I really, really, liked Emily and Mason. I felt I could relate to certain aspects of their character. They felt so real! I was so thankful for how accurately Emily's emotions were portrayed after everything she went through. I cringe when I read about characters who breeze through life having unrealistic reactions to traumatic events. I also felt Mason's internal struggles were justifiable. I found myself thankful again that his growing relationship with Christ wasn't stilted or forced, rather the opposite. I appreciate Godly characters so much.

The "mystery" and thrill in and of itself was fantastic and different for me, personally. I will definitely be looking up more of Harris's works and digging into Dangerous Passage when I have time. Why, oh, why must we wait until Spring '15 for the next book?? I highly recommend to fellow readers of mystery/thrillers. There really wasn't much romance in the story, but if there had been more than there was, it wouldn't have flowed. I recommend to readers fifteen or older due to the nature of the story. Things to know: There are at least ten murders either mentioned or presented in the story, though not given in grotesque detail. There is a drug cartel. 

I received this book from Revell in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thanks!

Back Cover:
Emily Hunt might come from a family of cops, but she never goes looking for an adrenaline rush. She lives the quiet–well, relatively quiet–life of a teacher and thrives on making a difference in the lives of her students. But she’ll have to draw on a well of strength and savvy she didn’t know she had as student Rafael Cerda takes her class hostage for ransom money to save his brother’s life.

Undercover cop Mason Taylor has been working with Rafael to find his brother and bring the cartel thugs who hold him to justice. Can he talk Rafael down from his impulsive actions? And is there something more sinister at work here than he realizes?

Fatal Exchange draws readers into a complex matrix of intertwining lives and unraveling secrets, where every answer creates more questions. Romantic suspense fans will hardly want to come up for air.

{Book Review:} Until That Distant Day by Jill Stengl

My Review:
An emotional, intriguing, historical!

Stengl swept me away to 1792 and, in my opinion, accurately captured the unrest and turmoil surrounding the French Revolution. I have not had the privilege of reading any of her previous works, but I am doubly impressed with Until That Distant Day. Her characters, her setting, and her plot all weave together like a beautiful tapestry and I adore it.

Colette, whose lovely head we're in, is relatable in her many struggles and wondering. I can easily imagine myself feeling the same way had I lived back in 1792 Paris, France. This does not mean there were not times I wanted to shake her, or point out the obvious; however if she didn't have her problems, would I like her as much? Not really. In contrast, her brother Pascoe's problems made me dislike him. Now, I don't have a brother, but I did find their relationship interesting. They seemed almost too close, but in the end everything was sorted out.

Moving on, another element of the story I admired was the use of French in dialog sprinkled over the pages. There was never too much that I could not decipher and the glossary at the back was incredibly helpful. For me the language added authenticity and added depth to both the story and characters. I even picked up a few phrases to add to my small knowledge of French. ;-)

All in all, I was thoroughly enjoyed Stengl's return to the fiction scene, and I look forward to seeing what she releases next! The emotion, realism, and twists make it a favorite in my books. Things to know: the majority of the story is set somewhere in the middle of the Revolution, thus there is bloodshed, though nothing extreme. A woman is impregnated outside of wedlock though we do not specifically read about the event. I recommend this novel to historical readers ages fifteen and older for readability and content.

I received this book from Anne Stengl in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thanks!! 

Back Cover:
Colette and her brother Pascoe are two sides of the same coin, dependent upon one another in the tumultuous world of the new Republic. Together they labor with other leaders of the sans-culottes to ensure freedom for all the downtrodden men and women of France.

But then the popular uprisings turn bloody and the rhetoric proves false. Suddenly, Colette finds herself at odds with Pascoe and struggling to unite her fractured family against the lure of violence. Charged with protecting an innocent young woman and desperately afraid of losing one of her beloved brothers, Colette doesn’t know where to turn or whom to trust as the bloodshed creeps ever closer to home.

Until that distant day when peace returns to France, can she find the strength to defend her loved ones . . . even from one another?

Until That Distant Day by Jill Stengl {Blog Tour + Giveaway!}

Hey everyone! I have another fun post for you all! Not to mention another giveaway. ;-D

Book Blurb:

Colette and her brother Pascoe are two sides of the same coin, dependent upon one another in the tumultuous world of the new Republic. Together they labor with other leaders of the sans-culottes to ensure freedom for all the downtrodden men and women of France.

But then the popular uprisings turn bloody and the rhetoric proves false. Suddenly, Colette finds herself at odds with Pascoe and struggling to unite her fractured family against the lure of violence. Charged with protecting an innocent young woman and desperately afraid of losing one of her beloved brothers, Colette doesn’t know where to turn or whom to trust as the bloodshed creeps ever closer to home.

Until that distant day when peace returns to France, can she find the strength to defend her loved ones . . . even from one another?


About the Author:
Jill Stengl is the author of numerous romance novels including Inspirational Reader's Choice Award- and Carol Award-winning Faithful Traitor, and the bestselling novella, Fresh Highland Heir. She lives with her husband in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin, where she enjoys her three cats, teaching a high school English Lit. class, playing keyboard for her church family, and sipping coffee on the deck as she brainstorms for her next novel.

She blogs at Books, Cats, and Whimsy. Do stop by and follow her to keep up with all her writing and reading-related activities!

I was offered the opportunity to ask Jill a question about her new story. So I asked her, "What do you want readers to take away from Until that Distant Day?" Below is her answer. :-) 

I've been thinking a bit about this question—thank you for asking, Rosie.

The main thing I hope readers will take away from Until That Distant Day is that indefinable blend of euphoria and sorrow I feel after reading my very favorite books. I hope my characters will remain in a reader’s thoughts as if they were real people, along with their desire for purpose, hope, and a future. I hope the scenes and setting will remain like memories of personal experience in a reader’s mind. I hope these characters and their relationships will not blend in with those of a dozen or a hundred other books.

In short, I hope readers will remember my story and wish to read it again. Isn't this every author’s desire?

A lovely answer. Thanks, Jill! 

As part of the launch tour, Jill is offering her new book, Until that Distant Day, on Kindle for only 99 cents through May 12th! Get your ebook copy here!! 

Now to the part you have all been waiting for, the special giveaway!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Lastly, don't forget to check out the other stops on the tour!

Until That Distant Day
Launch Tour Schedule

May 5

Tales of Goldstone Wood

Edgy Inspirational Romance

Fullness of Joy

The Inkpen Authoress

Covers and Ink

May 6

Blooming with Books

Quoth the Girl

The Wonderings of One Person

May 7

The Writer’s Window

Jill Eileen Smith

The Writer of Dream Things

May 8

Letters from Annie Douglas Lima

Rina’s Reading

To Find a Castle

May 9

JLMbewe.com

To Be a Person

Writings of Rosie

May 10

Seasons of Humility

Notes by Oywen

The Overweight Bookshelf

May 11

Too Read or Not Too Read

Fictionally

Bluerose’s Heart

May 12

Mel’s Shelves

Labor Not in Vain

Creative Madness Mama

May 13 – Giveaway Winner Announced

Tales of Goldstone Wood