Book Review: Love's Reckoning by Laura Frantz

My Review:
This book is AMAZING! Go right now to Amazon and buy this book!

Love's Reckoning is set in Colonial times, just after the Revolutionary War. Miss Laura Frantz immediately takes you into this beautiful period and entrances you. Although her enchantments are not limited to the setting, but also extended to the characters and the storyline.

Miss Frantz's words flow right off the page and enter your imagination. Her characters, particularly Eden, Elspeth, and Silas, jumped right off the page! Having never read anything previous of Miss Frantz, I am very much impressed.

I absolutely hated Elspeth. I was supposed to, I guess, but that wasn't my only reason for my dislike. She made me ache for Eden, so much! You haven't read about an "evil sister" until you read Love's Reckoning. I sort of saw a comparison from the Lee family to the story of Cinderella. Disney style, of course, and minus the evil step-mother and second step-sister.

I smiled with Eden and I hurt with Eden. Her struggles were so great, yet she overcame them with the help of her father's Scot apprentice, Silas, and God. The ending was absolutely satisfying. Goodness, I loved this book.

Back of the Book (From Goodreads): 
On a bitter December day in 1785, Silas Ballantyne arrives at the door of master blacksmith Liege Lee in York, Pennsylvania. Just months from becoming a master blacksmith himself, Silas is determined to finish his apprenticeship and move west. But Liege soon discovers that Silas is a prodigious worker and craftsman and endeavors to keep him in Lancaster. Silas becomes interested in both of Liege's daughters, the gentle and faith-filled Eden and the clever and high-spirited Elspeth. When he chooses one, will the other's jealousy destroy their love? 

I bought this book on Amazon, no review was required. 

Book Review: This Scarlet Cord by Joan Wolf

My Review:

Rahab’s love story. 

Those were the words that piqued my interest. We all know who Rahab is, right? She was the woman who helped Joshua’s spies escape in Jericho. She is also mentioned in the genealogy of Christ in the book of Matthew.  

So I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect when I opened up Joan Wolf’s latest release. Granted the book was not what I expected, but I still enjoyed it somewhat. Miss Wolf’s writing is easy to read, and her imaginings about life in Biblical times appeared factual. 

I really liked how she portrayed Rahab: a free spirit, kind, life-loving, and beautiful girl. However, despite what we were told (that Rahab was only fourteen) it felt like she was much, much older. To pin an age to that, I mean sixteen or seventeen. She didn’t read at all like a fourteen year old, except maybe when she was pining for Sala.

Speaking of Sala, he also at times didn’t seem as mature as his age would demand (eighteen). He had his endearing moments though, which made up for the latter.  His compassion saved Rahab from being sold into slavery and his love brought her to Yahweh, making him an all around likable character. 

Overall, though I felt it took too much creative license here and there, I did like This Scarlet Cord. Before I finish though, I feel I must mention there is a sizable amount of implied sexual relations, due to the pagan culture Rahab lived in, and there was a situation/scene that left me very uncomfortable. Though Miss Wolf spared details, I felt it was unnecessary. For that reason, I give the book three stars.

Back of the Book:
A chasm lies between Rahab and her beloved Sala that can never be crossed.
Though Sala rescues young Rahab from slave bandits, he knows he can never fall in love with a
Canaanite. His belief in the One True God prevents them from a future together. Rahab's beauty
gains royal notice, and she is selected to entice the King during the annual sacred marriage
reenactment praising their pagan god, Baal.
But when the King suffers a heart attack and dies, Rahab is saved from the humiliating act. Her
despair drives her curiosity about Sala's One True God. Could He accept her . . . even love her?
Deceit and pride stand in the way of Rahab's happy ending. Only God can use these events to tell
the larger story of forgiveness and redemption.

Book Review: Code Triage by Candace Calvert

My Review:

A fast-paced medical-drama, which will keep you turning pages until the end!

Miss Calvert has composed fabulous characters that I loved immediately! I felt so connected to Leigh. I ached with her and smiled with her. Nick too. 

Leigh has her own definition of “being stubborn”.  She refuses to believe that “happily ever after” exists for anyone. Her mother only reinforces this belief by never staying with a man and telling her love never lasts.  Leigh is broken by her husband’s unfaithfulness and she doesn’t know how to put the pieces together. 

Nick is a very apologetic man wanting to save his marriage to Leigh.  He really reminded me of Caleb from Fireproof by Sherwood Pictures. He’s expressed in more than one way how sorry he is for being unfaithful and only seeks her forgiveness- and a second chance.  I thought it was admirable how he handled all the repercussions of what he did, despite how dishonorable his actions.   

I’d also like to mention two great supporting characters, Riley and Caroline. Riley is the ER Chaplin and provides a much needed ear to Leigh, but she also needs an ear of her own.  Riley struggles with terrible flashbacks and nightmares of a terrible thing done to her.  Caroline is Leigh’s sister, who’s just getting back on her feet, but also would like to see Nick and Leigh get back together. All four of them combine to make the kinds of characters I love to read about. 

Something I really loved was the suspense and the painful path to forgiveness and healing. There were times I wondered how the ending would play out, and I was never entirely sure if I was right. This book kept me up into the late hours of night, dying to finish.  I’d recommend this novel to any medical-drama lovers or anyone who loves a book that will keep you on your toes.  

Back of the Book:
Dr. Leigh Stathos likes her ER shifts fast, furious, and adrenaline-infused--"Treat 'em and street 'em"--with no emotional complications. Life's taught her a soul-rending lesson: nothing lasts forever, including marriage. And the clock is ticking toward the end of hers. Then an unwelcome confrontation with "the other woman" begins a whole new set of lessons. San Francisco police officer Nick Stathos never gives up, whether protecting his patrol neighborhood, holding fast to faith--or trying to save his marriage. Seven days is all he has to reach Leigh's heart. But when a desperate act of violence slams Golden Gate Mercy Hospital into lockdown, it starts a chain of events that will change lives forever.

Interested? You can purchase the book here!

Book Review: Dying to Read by Lorena McCourtney

My Review:
I love a great mystery! I also love a book that will keep me guessing or suspecting until the very end. Ms. McCourtney provides both in Dying to Read.


I loved this novel. I love most mystery novels, but this one was different than some of the others I've read recently. In Dying to Read, we're brought a whodunit murder merely pages in, and its ready to ensnare your attention until the very end. I was dying to read more. ;-)

I really liked the humor that Ms. McCourtney brought to Cate's character, and while Mitch didn't always feel realistic he brought smiles to my face. Another character to mention is Octavia, the cat. She had such a personality! She also brought a smile or two and I think she was an excellent addiction. 

I recommend this book to anyone who loves a good mystery. :-)

Back of the Book:
Cate Kinkaid is just dipping her toe into the world of private investigating until one of the many resumes she has floating around lands her a real job. All she has to do is determine that a particular woman lives at a particular address. Simple, right? When the big and brooding house happens to contain a dead body, this routine PI job turns out to be anything but simple. Is Cate in over her head?
Readers will be hooked from the very first chapter of this fast-paced and witty romantic mystery from bestselling and award-winning author Lorena McCourtney

Interested? You can purchase your own copy here!

I won this book in a giveaway, no review required.

Book Review: Unlocked by Karen Kingsbury

My Review:
A heart-warming read from Karen Kingsbury! Alas, this is the first novel I've read from Miss Kingsbury and I have to confess, I'm impressed. With well crafted characters and an engaging story there isn't much more to ask for.

In Unlocked we get a glimpse of how destructive bullying is and how judging a person based solely on the external tells you nothing about the person on the inside. It also gave me an insight to autism and how it affects a family's life.

I really enjoyed Miss Kingsbury's novel and I look forward to reading more by her.

I give this book four stars.

Back of the Book:
Before You Take a Stand ... You Got to Take a Chance.
Holden Harris is an eighteen-year-old locked in a prison of autism. Despite his quiet ways and quirky behaviors, Holden is very happy and socially normal---on the inside, in a private world all his own. In reality, he is bullied at school by kids who only see that he is very different. Ella Reynolds is part of the 'in' crowd. A cheerleader and star of the high school drama production, her life seems perfect. When she catches Holden listening to her rehearse for the school play, she is drawn to him ... the way he is drawn to the music. Then, Ella makes a dramatic discovery---she and Holden were best friends as children. Frustrated by the way Holden is bullied, and horrified at the indifference of her peers, Ella decides to take a stand against the most privileged and popular kids at school. Including her boyfriend, Jake.Ella believes miracles can happen in the unlikeliest places, and that just maybe an entire community might celebrate from the sidelines. But will Holden's praying mother and the efforts of Ella and a cast of theater kids be enough to unlock the prison that contains Holden? This time, friendship, faith, and the power of a song must be strong enough to open the doors to the miracle Holden needs.

I borrowed this book from my local library, no review was required. 

Interested? You can purchase the book here! 

Writing Mondays: Getting back into it...

After a two-three week sabbatical on Civil War (I've been preoccupied with constructing my room down stairs) I am happy to announce I'm getting back with it this week!

However, as I opened Scrivener up this morning, I was quickly reminded of my other reason to take a sabbatical.

My outline.

Ugh, I hate them. I love the order they bring but I hate them. And to make things worse I'm stuck.

But it'll be okay. I'll fix it. It isn't the end of the world. It will take some time but in the end it will be worth it. :-) Lord willing, next week I might be over my "stuckness" and ready to proceed with my outline.

How do you handle coming back to a project?

What's Up for Next Week? :-)

Wow, it's been a great week! And I'm sure this upcoming week will be just as great. :)

Monday there will be a writing post of some kind, haven't decided on what yet so stay tuned.

Tuesday there will be a book review of Unlocked by Karen Kingsbury.

Here's the blurb: Before You Take a Stand ... You Got to Take a Chance.Holden Harris is an eighteen-year-old locked in a prison of autism. Despite his quiet ways and quirky behaviors, Holden is very happy and socially normal---on the inside, in a private world all his own. In reality, he is bullied at school by kids who only see that he is very different. Ella Reynolds is part of the 'in' crowd. A cheerleader and star of the high school drama production, her life seems perfect. When she catches Holden listening to her rehearse for the school play, she is drawn to him ... the way he is drawn to the music. Then, Ella makes a dramatic discovery---she and Holden were best friends as children. Frustrated by the way Holden is bullied, and horrified at the indifference of her peers, Ella decides to take a stand against the most privileged and popular kids at school. Including her boyfriend, Jake.Ella believes miracles can happen in the unlikeliest places, and that just maybe an entire community might celebrate from the sidelines. But will Holden's praying mother and the efforts of Ella and a cast of theater kids be enough to unlock the prison that contains Holden? This time, friendship, faith, and the power of a song must be strong enough to open the doors to the miracle Holden needs.

Thursday there will be a book review of Dying to Read by Lorena McCourtney.

Here's the blurb: Cate Kinkaid is just dipping her toe into the world of private investigating until one of the many resumes she has floating around lands her a real job. All she has to do is determine that a particular woman lives at a particular address. Simple, right? When the big and brooding house happens to contain a dead body, this routine PI job turns out to be anything but simple. Is Cate in over her head?
Readers will be hooked from the very first chapter of this fast-paced and witty romantic mystery from bestselling and award-winning author Lorena McCourtney

Have a great weekend!

Book Review: Like Moonlight at Low Tide by Nicole Quigley

My Review:
This book is a wonderful read that tapped into my imagination. I could see events play out in my mind's eye. I could feel everything the main character, Melissa, was going through. This book begged for my attention in such a way, that I couldn't put it down!

Ms. Quigley's characters were realistic, relatable, and well rounded. I enjoyed watching Missy and Josh's friendship grow and develop. There were also some moments I could relate with Missy, which made me appreciate the book more.

Another reason I'm so attached to this book is because it's set in Florida, which is where I grew up. Though, I didn't grow up on Anna Maria Island I did grow up near Tampa Bay. I moved away recently from my hometown, and this book gave me a happy at-home feeling that I've missed.

I'd like to note that to make this realistic, Ms. Quigley discussed some teens drinking, including the main character. There was also talk of drugs and overdosing. Nothing is explicit, but some things are implied. I don't disagree with Ms. Quigley's decision to include these things in her novel, because without them the story would seem too fake.

Right now, this book stands as one of my favorites. I highly recommend it to any teen girl.

Back of the Book:
For Missy Keiser, returning to Anna Maria Island, Florida, means two things: her mother made another poor decision with men, and Missy will have to reenter a world where she’s known as “Messy,” a social pariah who dared to have a crush on Sam King, the most popular boy in school.

But much has changed in the three years she’s been away. Missy’s next-door neighbor is no longer an elderly woman but Josh, an intriguing boy who seems genuinely interested in her. At school, she’s surprised to find few people remember who she once was. And any remaining taunts of Messy are silenced when Sam King gives her his nod of approval.

Just as things seem to be perfect, Josh’s sudden distance, her mother’s latest relationship implosion, and her brother’s strange behavior threaten to ruin it all. Missy is forced to decide between the boy she’s always wanted, a boy who is intent on trying to save her, and the brother she’s known all her life. And her decision could have consequences she can never undo.

I received this book from DJC Communications in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done.

Book Review: Aldo's Fantastical Movie Palace by Jonathan Friesen

My Review:
A fantastical and magical read! Aldo's Fantastical Movie Palace is perfect fit for those who enjoyed Narnia. Friesen takes you on a journey through Retinya, a spectacular place thought only fiction by Nick and Chloe.

I loved most of Friesen's characters, particularly Chloe, Nob, and Scout. Others may not agree with me, but I didn't really like Nick. It wasn't because of his character structure, he just wasn't all that likable to me. I pitied him greatly, at times, but he still didn't make it to my "favorites" list.

A highlight, for me, is the clear message Friesen presents in Aldo's: The past is important to who we are today. There are some situations that have left an impression on my own character and without them- who would I be?

To close, my last favorite thing to list is Friesen's humor. I loved it. I was chuckling and grinning more than once, and it made the book so much more enjoyable.

Back of the Book:
In the Darkness of this Theater, Anything Can Happen The family's broken-down theater has always been a safe place for Chloe. There, no one can see the scars that line her face---scars her inventor father accidentally caused, leaving even deeper wounds between them. In the darkness she meets Nick, a boy with his own hurts. While Nick isn't the most pleasant companion, a rocky friendship is formed over their love of films. Soon the two are working on a movie script about a fantastical world---one that suddenly comes alive on the screen. Chloe and Nick are transported into an adventure beyond what they ever imagined, filled with dragons, magical pools, and a sinister vapor that threatens to destroy everyone. But when tragedy strikes, Chloe must find the courage to step out of the shadows and find what she's always longed for.

Book Trailer:

 
Interested? You can purchase the book here!

I received this book from DJC Communications in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done.

What's up this week? (We have a winner!!)

And we have a winner!! Caitlyn S. you've won The Pursuit of Lucy Banning! :-D Congrats! I've sent you an email, you'll have two weeks to get back to me.

Moving forward, I want to kind of do a brief overview of what's happening this week since I didn't last weekend. Tomorrow (Tues.), will be a book review of Aldo's Fantastical Movie Palace.

Here's the blurb: In the Darkness of this Theater, Anything Can Happen The family's broken-down theater has always been a safe place for Chloe. There, no one can see the scars that line her face---scars her inventor father accidentally caused, leaving even deeper wounds between them. In the darkness she meets Nick, a boy with his own hurts. While Nick isn't the most pleasant companion, a rocky friendship is formed over their love of films. Soon the two are working on a movie script about a fantastical world---one that suddenly comes alive on the screen. Chloe and Nick are transported into an adventure beyond what they ever imagined, filled with dragons, magical pools, and a sinister vapor that threatens to destroy everyone. But when tragedy strikes, Chloe must find the courage to step out of the shadows and find what she's always longed for.

Wednesday I'll be doing a short little post in honor of my not-so-little-anymore sister. (It's her birthday!) 

Thursday there will be another review and this time the book is Like Moonlight at Low Tide. I can't wait to start reading this one today! 

Here's the blurb: For Missy Keiser, returning to Anna Maria Island, Florida, means two things: her mother made another poor decision with men, and Missy will have to reenter a world where she’s known as “Messy,” a social pariah who dared to have a crush on Sam King, the most popular boy in school.

But much has changed in the three years she’s been away. Missy’s next-door neighbor is no longer an elderly woman but Josh, an intriguing boy who seems genuinely interested in her. At school, she’s surprised to find few people remember who she once was. And any remaining taunts of Messy are silenced when Sam King gives her his nod of approval.

Just as things seem to be perfect, Josh’s sudden distance, her mother’s latest relationship implosion, and her brother’s strange behavior threaten to ruin it all. Missy is forced to decide between the boy she’s always wanted, a boy who is intent on trying to save her, and the brother she’s known all her life. And her decision could have consequences she can never undo.

There you have it! I will see you all again tomorrow. :) 

Book Review: The Blue Door by Christa Kinde

My Review:
This book was fascinating. I haven't read any fictional books about angels before, for personal reasons. While I understand the Bible doesn't say much about angels, I'm still sensitive with how far people take creative license. I think Kinde did well but there were some things I still was "iffy" on. 

Prissie Pomeroy is an ordinary fourteen year old in a large family. That is, until one day she sees someone no one else can. And this someone is an angel, an observer to be specific, and his name is Koji.

In this fictional world there are many different types of angels, something I heartily agree with. There are messengers, guardians, protectors, observers, caretakers, and so on. Not sure how accurate all these "titles" are, but Ms. Kinde made it seem very plausible. 

I didn't really like some aspects of Prissie. It seemed like she was acting and being treated like a child a few years younger than 14. I don't know, maybe all the fourteen year-olds I know are just more mature than she is. 

I also think Ms. Kinde missed out on a great opportunity to focus more on God than she did. It seemed me the focus was on the angels. Once again, this may just be my opinion. Other than what I mentioned I felt like the story was well written, and while I may not re-read this book I do look forward to reading it's sequel to see what happens next.

I give this book 3 stars. 

The Blue Door is set to release on Sept. 25th.

Back of the Book:
ZonderKidz launches an exciting supernatural series for kids 11 and up. The Blue Door, the first book in The Threshold Series, introduces Prissie Pomeroy, a teen who discovers she can see what others cannot: angels all around. Even more startling is the surprising secret she uncovers about people she thought she knew. As she wrestles with this unexpected ability she must come to grips with the spiritual battles surrounding her. Especially when she learns she received this gift because God has a unique role for her in his bigger plan. But if she's to fulfill it, she'll need faith like never before.This exciting debut by author Christa Kinde draws on the rapidly growing interest in angel stories, an emerging trend in teen and preteen supernatural novels. Boys and girls alike will appreciate her gifted storytelling that captures their imagination with things beyond human sight. And parents will appreciate the family-friendly tone and godly messages maintained throughout this intriguing tale of adventure and spiritual warfare.

I received this ARC from Zondervan's Good Teen Reads in return for an honest review of my opinions.

Labor Day Weekend Giveaway!

Hey everyone!

Yup, you guessed it! The surprise is Writings of Rosie's first ever giveaway! The featured book is Olivia Newport's The Pursuit of Lucy Banning. We'll start off this fun post with the back of the book and then continue on to my review and the giveaway! :D

Back of the Book:
Lucy Banning may live on the exclusive Prairie Avenue among Chicago's rich and famous, but her heart lies elsewhere. Expected to marry an up-and-coming banker from a respected family, Lucy fears she will be forced to abandon her charity work--and the classes she is secretly taking at the newly opened University of Chicago. When she meets an unconventional young architect who is working on plans for the upcoming 1893 World's Fair, Lucy imagines a life lived on her own terms. Can she break away from her family's expectations? And will she ever be loved for who she truly is?
Readers will love being swept away into a world of mansions, secrets, and romance as they follow Lucy through the streets of the Windy City during one of the most exciting times in the city's history. From opulent upper-class homes to the well-worn rooms of an orphanage, Olivia Newport breathes life and romance into the pages of history--and everyone is invited.


My Review:
I thoroughly enjoyed The Pursuit of Lucy Banning and I look forward to the sequel The Dilemma of Charlotte Farrow. I have a strong love for books that transport me back to late 1800s and early 1900s and this book, if anything, encouraged my affection. :-)

Lucy Banning is a woman who is beginning to want more than what life is offering her. She wants to be a New Woman and go to a university, get a degree, help out more at orphanages, and so forth. All things that her mother and father disapprove of.

I found this book such an easy read. It captured and held my attention, keeping me turning pages until the last. I could relate to Lucy, as well as Charlotte, a side character, and appreciate how difficult it must have been to be betrothed all one's life.

Ms. Newport allowed into her delightful read mystery and a dash of romance making me like it all the more.

I give this book four stars.

Now onto the giveaway bit! Just follow the instructions on the widget. :-)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway is only open to U.S. residents-- sorry! 

What's Happening Next Week? :-)

Hey everyone!

I hope you all have a fabulous Labor Day weekend! I know I will, because my birthday happens to land on Labor Day this year. Funny right? Because Labor Day/my birthday is on Monday there will not be a Writing Mondays post. There will be, however, a big fun surprise for you all! I'm pretty confident you all are going to love it and I'm super excited about it. Because I'll be trekking through the woods with my friends and then going to a birthday dinner in town, the post will be scheduled. (I will make sure it goes through!) And I can't wait to see everyone's reactions.

I'll give you one hint.

It's something that has never been done in the history of Writings of Rosie yet. 

Feel free to guess in the comments! :-D

Blessings!
-Rosie

Book Review: Serpent of Moses by Don Hoesel

My Review:
This was a somewhat less enjoyable Jack Hawthorne adventure, when compared to the previous novel. But before I dive into the negatives of this book, let me present the positives. :-)

Hoesel begins Serpent of Moses in third person. This was different for me, seeing as the first book was written in first person. (You can see my review here.) I freely admit I found the change confusing. Were we with Jack? Or is it Duckey? Espy?  Thankfully, Hoesel revealed who it was within a paragraph, but it left a bad taste.

I found Esperanza's loyalty, when it counted, to be very, very admirable. Duckey's too. Especially after all that occurred in Elisha's Bones. In addition, I liked it when Jack had his realization that his relationship with Espy is more important than gallivanting off after artifacts. Friendship plays a big part in Hoesel's novels and it's an element I enjoy.

Now, to briefly disclose my cons. I really didn't like the change to third person. I think I understand why Hoesel did it, but it still aggravated me when I got lost. Because of the change, I struggled to keep up even more so than I did in Elisha's Bones. I also did not like all the jumping around from person to person. It just added to my confusion. Finally, though the story was fast paced at some points, in others it felt like it was dragging.

I'll conclude with one final statement: If I hadn't read Elisha's Bones first, I think I might have liked Serpent of Moses more. I give this book three stars.

Back of the Book:
Just three years after the recovery of Elisha's bones, Dr. Jack Hawthorne has given up teaching and resumed the practice of archaeology, although his frequent absences have put a strain on his relationship with Esperanza. Things heat up when Esperanza receives a call from an antiquities dealer with troubling news about Jack, and her fears are confirmed. Jack has gone to Libya in search of another biblical artifact: the Nehushtan, the serpent staff of Moses.
After Jack arrives in Libya, he soon discovers he isn't the only one searching for the Nehushtan. Later, in attempting to steal it, he finds himself in the hands of a man who just might be his match. Jack and his friends must stay one step ahead of the Libyan government, an overambitious member of the Vatican hierarchy, and an Egyptian assassin--if they stand any chance of staying alive long enough to recover the staff.

I received this book from Bethany House in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. 

Book Review: Elisha's Bones by Don Hoesel

My Review:
What a roller-coaster ride! Elisha's Bones reminded me much of an Indiana Jones movie at first, but Hoesel made this adventure his own with many twists I couldn't anticipate.

Elisha's Bones is all written in the mind of Jack Hawthorne, former archeologist and current professor. This actually was a first for me because from what I recall I haven't read a book in the mind of a guy. Don't get me wrong, I liked this change. It was neat to get into a guy's head for a while.

Moving forward, I liked how I didn't know what was coming next. That in itself was refreshing, including the fact that there is no clear resemblance between the Indiana characters and Hoesel's. That brought a big smile to my face.

Elisha's Bones is a novel with a thick plot and realistic settings that you can get lost in. There were some minor personal issues I had with Jack, and there were some occasions I struggled to keep up but overall it was a good read. I look forward to reading Hoesel's next novel Serpent of Moses.

I give this book 4 stars.

Back of the Book:
Every year, professor of antiquities Jack Hawthorne looks forward to the winter break as a time to hide away from his responsibilities. Even if just for a week or two. But this year, his plans are derailed when he's offered almost a blank check from a man chasing a rumor. Billionaire Gordon Reese thinks he knows where the bones of the prophet Elisha are--bones that in the Old Testament brought the dead back to life. A born skeptic, Jack doesn't think much of the assignment but he could use the money, so he takes the first step on a chase for the legendary bones that will take him to the very ends of the earth. But he's not alone. Joined with a fiery colleague, Esperanza Habilla, they soon discover clues to a shadowy organization whose long-held secrets have been protected . . . at all costs. As their lives are threatened again and again, the real race is to uncover the truth before those chasing them hunt them down.

Interested? You can purchase it for free on kindle through 8/31!!

I bought this book and these are my honest opinions about it.

Writing Mondays: All Plots Come With a Few Holes...

Hey everyone!

As the title says, all plots come with a few holes. It doesn't matter how long you've thought about your plot nor how long you've spent staring at your outline. There will always be a few potholes in our story the first go-round. I'm just as guilty of this as anyone else.

So how do we improve? What do we strive for when we know we'll make an inevitable mistake?

Well, one of the first ways to improve is to recognize frequent mistakes you make. Try to find a pattern, ask a parent or writing buddy to help. Some plot holes/trends are more visible than others, so don't get frustrated when you find "yet another problem!". Instead, be relieved! That's one more weed out of your novel garden!

What we should strive for isn't perfection. It should be to "pave the road" without worrying about mistakes. Worry about fixing the holes later, when the manuscript is done. But for now, do your best. That's all that matters. That's all that counts.

Thanks for stopping by!!

-Rosie

What's coming next week?

Hey all! I thought I'd start something new to go along with the new blog look. Every Thursday or Friday I will (hopefully) post next week's schedule and what I'm reading over the weekend. :-)

Schedule wise, I hope to have a wonderful writing post about plots on Monday. Then, I'll be posting a review of Elisha's Bones by Don Hoesel on Tuesday and on Thursday I'll be posting a review of Serpent of Moses also by Don Hoesel. That's all for next week!

To finish up, here's what I'm reading over the weekend. First up, I'll be finishing Elisha's Bones by Don Hoesel. Here's the book blurb:
Every year, professor of antiquities Jack Hawthorne looks forward to the winter break as a time to hide away from his responsibilities. Even if just for a week or two. But this year, his plans are derailed when he's offered almost a blank check from a man chasing a rumor. Billionaire Gordon Reese thinks he knows where the bones of the prophet Elisha are--bones that in the Old Testament brought the dead back to life. A born skeptic, Jack doesn't think much of the assignment but he could use the money, so he takes the first step on a chase for the legendary bones that will take him to the very ends of the earth. But he's not alone. Joined with a fiery colleague, Esperanza Habilla, they soon discover clues to a shadowy organization whose long-held secrets have been protected . . . at all costs. As their lives are threatened again and again, the real race is to uncover the truth before those chasing them hunt them down.

The next and final book I'll be tackling this weekend is the sequel, Serpent of Moses, which is also by Don Hoesel. Here's the book blurb:
Just three years after the recovery of Elisha's bones, Dr. Jack Hawthorne has given up teaching and resumed the practice of archaeology, although his frequent absences have put a strain on his relationship with Esperanza. Things heat up when Esperanza receives a call from an antiquities dealer with troubling news about Jack, and her fears are confirmed. Jack has gone to Libya in search of another biblical artifact: the Nehushtan, the serpent staff of Moses.
After Jack arrives in Libya, he soon discovers he isn't the only one searching for the Nehushtan. Later, in attempting to steal it, he finds himself in the hands of a man who just might be his match. Jack and his friends must stay one step ahead of the Libyan government, an overambitious member of the Vatican hierarchy, and an Egyptian assassin--if they stand any chance of staying alive long enough to recover the staff.

What are you reading or doing this weekend? :-)
  

Book Review: Perfectly Unique by Annie F. Downs (ARC)

My Review: 
You will hardly find me with a non-fiction book. I don't like reading them, I disagree with most of them, and I think fiction is the bee's knees.

But Ms. Downs has changed my opinion. This once. ;)

Ms. Downs brings us a book all about learning to love ourselves and how to praise God with our bodies. My expectations were set. I was ready to disagree. But I was happily disappointed. Instead, I was smiling and laughing at Ms. Down's down-to-earth writing and I was thinking through everything she said. I loved the first two chapters so much I corralled my cousin Tabitha into reading through the book with me!

Through the book, Ms. Downs discusses mind, eyes, ears, mouth, shoulders, heart, hands, stomach, knees, and lastly feet. At the end of every chapter she's formed little "activities" which include Bible verses to read, words to look up in the dictionary, and things to think on. I accepted all her advice at the end of each chapter and performed some (sadly not all, but I will go back and do them!) of the "activities".

To conclude, Ms. Downs makes you feel like you're her best friend. She shares stories from her personal life, recipes which can be found in the Appendix, and gives solid advice. I highly, highly recommend this book to every teenage girl.

Perfectly Unique: Praising God from Head to Foot will release early September.

Back of the Book:
Your body is an instrument.

No, it’s not a flute, or a guitar (I hope).
It is a sacred and original design by a master craftsman with a specific plan and purpose.

That’s a pretty big deal.

From head to foot, the way you view your body is directly connected to how you serve God. Seriously. From the thoughts you think to the steps you take, every part of you is linked to the divine.
Perhaps you are struggling with your body image or are trying to make sense of why God made you as you are. Maybe you are looking for new ways to understand Scripture or to love God more fully. Either way, this book will take you on a thoughtful, funny, and spirit-filled exploration of the way you were designed and will help you better honor the Creator by learning to value his perfectly unique creation (yourself!)

Psst! How do you like the new blog look? Let me know by posting a comment! ;-)

I received this book from Zondervan's Good Teen Reads in return for an honest review. Thanks!

I Have a Question...

I've been thinking a lot about how the blog looks and I've wondered for a while now if I should change it up. Yes? No? Thoughts? I'd love to hear from you!

Book Review: Full Disclosure by Dee Henderson (ARC)

My Review: 
Many fans, I'm sure, are ecstatic about Dee Henderson's return. Personally, I've never read anything from Dee before (I've been too preoccupied with other books.) which made me excited about reading Full Disclosure.

FBI Agent Paul Falcon has been sitting on a cold case for many years. His lady shooter has just up and vanished-- after murdering thirty people. He'd like to find her, yet he has no hot leads...until Ann Silver comes through his door.

As Midwest Homicide Investigator, Ann stumbled across an interesting case. An elderly man was speeding at night in the middle of a bad storm. When she digs deeper, she discovers a connection to Paul's lady shooter and the chase resumes.

My pros and cons for this book are pretty simple. I'll start with my cons. For me, the beginning was slow, and I mean slow. It wasn't clear which case was the more important one, and then the instantaneous romantic fluff bothered me. And that was just the first one hundred pages.

For pros, I gladly found the last half of the book to be enjoyable and I attached more to the characters. Dee entwines all of her plot points and characters and then things start to make more sense. The suspense level was set high for a while, but it didn't hold for nearly as long as I had hoped. (Off topic-- But there is a particular "fluffy" scene somewhat near the end that warmed my heart and made me smile-- but I won't spoil anyone.)

While I liked this book, I was nowhere close to loving it. If you're a past fan you might find this book more lovable than I did. I give this book three stars.

Back of the Book:
Ann Silver is a cop's cop. As the Midwest Homicide Investigator, she is called in to help local law enforcement on the worst of cases, looking for answers to murder. Hers is one of the region's most trusted investigative positions. 

Paul Falcon is the FBI's top murder cop in the Midwest. If the victim carried a federal badge or had a security clearance, odds are good Paul and his team see the case file or work the murder. 

Their lives intersect when Ann arrives to pass a case off her desk and onto his. A car wreck and a suspicious death offer a lead on a hired shooter he is tracking. Paul isn't expecting to meet someone, the kind that goes on the personal side of the ledger, but Ann Silver has his attention. 

The better he gets to know her, the more Paul realizes her job barely scratches the surface of who she is. She knows spies and soldiers and U.S. Marshals, and has written books about them. She is friends with the former Vice President. People with good reason to be cautious about who they let into their lives deeply trust her. Paul wonders just what secrets Ann is keeping, until she shows him the John Doe Killer case file, and he starts to realize just who this lady he is falling in love with really is...

Don't forget to check out the FB page where you can read three chapters for free! 

I received this ARC from Bethany House in return for an honest review of my opinions. Thanks!

Hey everyone!

Hey everyone, come check out my best friend's new blog A Hopeful Writer in Motion and follow, please! Thanks! :-D

Something fun... :-)

Hey all! I have once again been tagged in another fun post! Thanks, Becki!

The Game of Elevens

Here are the rules for this game:

1) Post these rules

2) Round One: Post 11 random things about yourself

3) Round Two: Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post

4) Round Three: Create 11 new questions for the people you tag to answer.

5) Go to their blog and tell them they've been tagged

6) Post a link to your post on the blog of your tagger, so they can see the questions you've answered.

Okay, let's get started with Round One! Here are eleven random things about me.

1. I love popcorn. Not the movie theater popcorn. Oh no. I like the good ol' air popped with salt for seasoning.

2. I discovered writing was my passion less than a year ago. Before that it was just something I did for fun. :)

3. My current WIP is a Militaristic Sci-Fi you can read a little bit about it here on the Go Teen Writer's blog.

4. I think painting pottery is fun. Whether or not the pottery looks good after the fact though.....

5. I think Chick-Fil-A is amazing.

6. I'm sitting at a library. 

7. Most of my friends are made over the internet. Save for three very special people I met in real life.

8. I think blue eyes are gorgeous.

9. Music is my best friend. 

10. I have the best family in the world. I just do. :p

11. Not a single member of my immediate family has seen any of my original work.

Whew! Now on to Round Two with Becki's questions!

1) Out of all your possessions, which would you be MOST willing to give up?: Hm...probably my bookshelf. It's too small anyway, and I could never get rid of my "must-keep" books.
2) Cat person or dog person?: Both. Haha! My family and I have two cats and a dog.
3) If you could switch lives with your best friend for a day, would you?: No. I like my life very much thank you.
4) If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?: Probably my confidence. I'd give it a little boost.
5) What is your pet peeve?: Dirty and unorganized rooms. Ugh, I just want to scream.
6) What question do you hate people asking you?: Actually, it's only a question someone asks me when I wear my "Jesus is Thelight" shirt. They could swear it says "twilight" on their first glance so they always ask, "Team Edward or Jacob?" *facepalm*
7) Would you classify yourself as "crazy"?: Yes, yes I would. But a good crazy, mind you.
8) What's the strangest/most memorable dream you've ever had?: Hm. I don't know...
9) Introvert (get energy from being alone), extrovert (get energy from being around people), or ambivert (need 50-50)?: 0_o Uh.... hmm...most likely an ambivert. :D
10) Nightowl or Early Riser?: Night owl.
11) Are you ready for this to be over?: Yeah, kinda. lol

Now, last but not least Round Three!! The fun part where I get to come up with questions! 

1) You're stuck on an island. What do you bring?

2) If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?

3) What seems funny to you but not to anyone else? 

4) If you were the richest person in the world, how would you use your money?

5) Paperback/Hardcover or ebook?

6) What's your favorite past time?

7) What's your favorite movie?

8) You are given seven days to live, how do you spend them?

9) Which do you prefer: spring or winter?

10) How many books do you own? (Give us an estimate)

11) What's the one thing you desperately want?

And there you have it! Now for the lucky tagged bloggers....

Emily Rachelle over at Blog of a (Maybe) Teen Author

Rissi over at Dreaming Under the Same Moon

And Rachelle over at Inspiring Daring!

Have fun!!

-Rosie

Book Review: The Maid of Fairbourne Hall by Julie Klassen

My Review:

This book is for Jane Austen fans!! The Maid of Fairbourne Hall is my first read by Ms. Klassen and it won't likely be my last. I was captivated by her portrayal of 1800s England and the class separation. It is so different from today!

Margaret Macy is in a predicament. Her evil stepfather wishes to steal her inheritance by forcing her to marry his nephew, Marcus Benton. Luckily enough for Margaret, she cannot marry without her consent. What's not so lucky is that her 25th birthday (at which point in time she shall receive her inheritance) is still three months off. How shall she put off her scheming uncle and his nephew for so long? Simple really. She flees with her ex-maid Joan. Just like Joseph fled from Potiphar's wife.

Along her flight she discovers the only option to protect herself, and her money, is to become a maid. So with the help of Joan they make up a new name for her- Nora Garrett. But their time together is cut short when Joan is quickly hired off, leaving Margaret to her own devices.

I really enjoyed watching Margaret's character develop, as well as Nate's too. The setting and storyline were engaging leaving my only complaint to be that sometimes the story lagged.

I highly recommend this book!

Back of the Book:
Pampered Margaret Macy flees London in disguise to escape pressure to marry a dishonorable man. With no money and nowhere else to go, she takes a position as a housemaid in the home of Nathaniel Upchurch, a suitor she once rejected in hopes of winning his dashing brother. Praying no one will recognize her, Margaret fumbles through the first real work of her life. If she can last until her next birthday, she will gain an inheritance from a spinster aunt--and sweet independence. But can she remain hidden as a servant even when prying eyes visit Fairbourne Hall?
Observing both brothers as an "invisible" servant, Margaret learns she may have misjudged Nathaniel. Is it too late to rekindle his admiration? And when one of the family is nearly killed, Margaret alone discovers who was responsible. Should she come forward, even at the risk of her reputation and perhaps her life? And can she avoid an obvious trap meant to force her from hiding?
On her journey from wellborn lady to servant to uncertain future, Margaret must learn to look past appearances and find the true meaning of "serve one another in love." 

Interested? You can purchase the book here! 

Book Review: Lethal Legacy by Irene Hannon

My Review:
I have long anticipated this suspense-packed, mystery, romance novel from Irene Hannon. I was able to fall in love all over again with the Taylor family and it saddens me that this is their last adventure I'll read about.

Cole Taylor is a single detective, who wants something more meaningful in his life, and has long since abandoned God. He is sick of flimsy dating-- and his sister poking into his personal life.

Kelly Warren is a single persistent woman who wants answers. The police ruled her father killed himself, but she doesn't believe that for a moment. Her father was a happy man and planned to be around to plant spring tulips with his daughter.

When their paths cross, Cole becomes intrigued with Kelly's case and offers his assistance until Alan, the case leader, returns. Such a simple gesture sends a thousand things running into motion.

Something I loved about Lethal Legacy was the strong knit family of the Taylors and how they looked out for one another. Near the end, after a long forty-eight hours, Mitch sticks at Cole's side until Jake can relieve him. Cole was never alone. Their care and honesty was so refreshing.

I also particularly enjoyed the friendship-bond that Kelly and Lauren shared.

To conclude, we're given many twists and turns- but they never get old! I highly recommend this book. :-D

Summary: 
The police say her father's death was suicide. But Kelly Warren says it was murder--and she has new evidence that she believes proves it. Detective Cole Taylor doesn't put much credence in her claim, and nothing in his case review suggests foul play. But when Kelly ends up in the emergency room with a suspicious life-threatening medical condition, the incident strikes him as more than just coincidence. Digging deeper, he discovers she's linked to a long-ago crime. Is history repeating itself? And who wants Kelly silenced?

I preordered Lethal Legacy, no review required.