Once Upon a Prince by Rachel Hauck {Litfuse Blog Tour!}

My Review:
A refreshing, delightful, read from Miss Hauck!

Ever since my lovely blogging friends began posting their reviews, I grew more and more eager to dive into the pages of Once Upon a Prince. Let me tell you, when I finally did I couldn't put it down. This novel went beyond all my expectations. She even surprised me at the end! Anyone who can accomplish that needs to pat themselves on the back.

Susanna is a planner. She feels safe knowing how her life is going to turn out. Until her world flips upside down. Miss Hauck accomplished this change in Susanna very well, in my opinion. It didn't come too fast or too slow but instead it was portrayed very realistically. Susanna felt so real just in general with her quirks. That's something I really liked.

As for the prince... well, he is something special. :-) I was pleasantly surprised by his strong faith. I also liked how willing he was to sacrifice his happiness if it came to that. And, oh my goodness, his accent! It literally pops off the page!

In sum, Miss Hauck has penned an amazing story. Her writing flows right off the page and into my imagination. Her characters appear lifelike and are relatable, something very important to me. This will be one I will reread in the future, just for the fun of it. Plus, she kept all the romance very clean, which impressed me beyond belief. I can't wait until Book Two!

I received this book from the publisher through Litfuse in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thank you!

Back Cover:
Susanna Truitt never dreamed of a great romance or being treated like a princess---just to marry the man she has loved for twelve years. But life isn’t going according to plan. When her high-school-sweetheart-turned-Marine-officer breaks up instead of proposing, Susanna scrambles to rebuild her life.

The last thing Prince Nathaniel expects to find on his American holiday to St. Simon’s Island is the queen of his heart. A prince has duties, and his family’s tense political situation has chosen his bride for him. When Prince Nathaniel comes to Susanna’s aid under the fabled Lover’s Oak, he is blindsided by love.

Their lives are worlds apart. He’s a royal prince. She’s a ordinary girl. But everything changes when Susanna receives an invitation to Nathaniel’s coronation.

Captives by Jill Williamson {TNT Blog Tour + Giveaway!}

My Review:
This Christian Dystopian novel is one you won't want to miss!

Captives introduces us to a whole new world in 2088. The Safe Lands practically pop out of the page and take you in. Jill did such a wonderful job making it believable and realistic with amazing detail. Speaking of The Safe Lands, as "safe" as it sounds, it really isn't. The place is actually rather quite terrifying the more you learn about it. I don't blame the Elders who said no to The Safe Lands.

The primary characters we focus on in the novel are Mason, Omar, Levi, and Shaylinn. Truthfully, I hadn't anticipated the many points of view, but it worked really well! It opened the door for me to look at what was going on through different pairs of eyes, who all had unique ways of looking at their circumstances.

Confession time. I am very partial to Levi's and Shaylinn's points of view. I found Levi likable primarily for his loyalty to his family and friends. His determination to put his own life on the line to get them back. His quoting Westley from The Princess Bride... *cough* Anyway, overall he earned his spot as one of my favorite characters. ;-)

As a result of The Safe Lands ungodly lifestyle there is many instances revolving around a character, whose name I shall not disclose. No instances are explicit, in fact, Jill handles all of it really well in a way with few details. Nonetheless, be advised.

My personal conclusion? This book is fantastic! And the ending has left me eager for the sequel!

I received this book from the publisher in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thank you!

Back Cover:
One choice could destroy them all.

When eighteen-year-old Levi returned from Denver City with his latest scavenged finds, he never imagined he’d find his village of Glenrock decimated, loved ones killed, and many—including his fiancée, Jem–taken captive. Levi is determined to rescue what remains of his people, even if it means entering the Safe Lands, a walled city that seems anything but safe.

Omar knows he betrayed his brother by sending him away, but helping the enforcers was necessary. Living off the land and clinging to an outdated religion holds his village back. The Safe Land has protected people since the plague decimated the world generations ago … and its rulers have promised power and wealth beyond Omar’s dreams.

Meanwhile, their brother Mason has been granted a position inside the Safe Lands, and may be able to use his captivity to save not only his people, but also find a cure for the virus that threatens everyone inside the Safe Lands.

Can Mason uncover the truth hidden behind the Safe Land’s façade before it’s too late?

You can purchase your copy here!

You can connect with Jill Williamson at any of the following sites:
Her personal website (also linked above): http://www.jillwilliamson.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jwilliamsonwrites?fref=ts
Also- the Safe Lands has their own Website! Check it out: http://thesafelands.com/

Jill and Zondervan are graciously giving away a paperback copy of Captives! US entries only, sorry! Please use the Rafflecopter below. ;-)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Other stops on the tour:
ADD Librarian • Blooming with Books • Bookworm Reading • Chris Kolmorgen • Christian Book Review Blog • Christian Bookshelf Reviews • CTF Devourer • Emily Rachelle Writes • Heavenward Reviews • Jessica Laurie • Labor Not in Vain • The Life of a Teenage Writer • The Maniacal Bookworm • Mrs. Southern Bride • Oh, Restless Bird • Pages from My Journal • The Pen and Parchment • Rachelle Rea • The Ramblings of a Young Author • Realm of Hearts • Shadow Writer World • A Simple Life, Really?! • Surrendering All of Me • Terri Harr • Verbosity Book Reviews • Who YA Reading? • Worthy2Read • The Writings of Rosie

 

Book Review: The Bare Naked Truth by Bekah Hamrick Martin

I'll be frank, this book covers some uncomfortable topics. However, I found it well worth the read. 

Back Cover:
The Truth About Sex and Waiting ... Uncovered Purity. Sex. Boys. Waiting. 

There's something about those words that makes everything complex in a heartbeat, and raises more questions than answers. Is there something wrong with me if I don't kiss a boy after a date? Or am I doomed if I DID? What if waiting is just a one-way trip to life as a crazy cat woman? And what if I tend to, um, think about a certain boy in a certain way? It seems that the lady at church and your friends have two very different opinions on the subject. And 'Your Budding Womanhood: Staying a Beautiful Flower for Jesus' just isn't cutting it. 

Bekah Hamrick Martin knows the waiting game isn't easy or straight-forward. In The Bare Naked Truth, she lays everything on the table---including some embarrassing moments---as she explores the honest, naked truth behind what God means by purity. With additional entries from popular authors, you'll see the bare naked approach to waiting isn't always easy, but it's worth the risk.

My Review:
Debut author Bekah Martin brings to us a very serious yet pleasant read. She covers topics that many might classify as taboo. Nonetheless, if you are a Christian teenage girl (or even if you aren't) I think you could gain a lot by reading The Bare Naked Truth.

Throughout the book, Bekah shares appropriate scripture and has several of her friends share their personal stories/experiences/testimonies in the hope that we, as the reader, can learn from other people's mistakes and make our own educated decisions. I never once felt being preached at or talked down to. Bekah writes very openly and from the heart. She also makes some excellent points while making me laugh at the same time.

I read The Bare Naked Truth in about four to five hours, just because I couldn't put it down. Bekah really makes you step back and reexamine your plans in a positive way. I'm really glad that I had the chance to review this. Personally, reading the book made me rethink my decisions and plans. I highly recommend it!

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

Undeniably Yours by Becky Wade {Litfuse Blog Tour!}

My Review:
Becky Wade's sophomore novel is sophisticated and sweet!

I fell instantly for Meg Cole as our leading lady! She finds herself placed into a mold, and to put it simply, she doesn't meld like she's expected to. My heart ached for all Meg was put through in her childhood and early adult life. Her bright faith through it all remains a highlight to me even after I finished the final pages.

Bo Porter is a man living his dream job. He grew up in a Christian home surrounded by the one thing Meg finds important: love. Bo is definitely a hero to root for. As a former marine and an oldest brother, he assumes the protective role in his family and loved ones.

Becky's debut, My Stubborn Heart, remains my favorite by a small margin. I cannot compare the two, so I shall just say this. Undeniably Yours brings to the table a wonderful cast of characters. They felt real to me in the best sense. Accompanying the beautiful characters is great writing. Places like the Whispering Creek Ranch spring off the page and it's like you're there. It adds to the atmosphere of the story in a positive way.

I can say honestly that I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and I cannot wait to discover more about the Porter family!! 

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

Back Cover:
When Meg Cole’s father dies unexpectedly, she becomes the majority shareholder of his oil company and the single inheritor of his fortune. Though Meg is soft-spoken and tenderhearted–more interested in art than in oil–she’s forced to return home to Texas and to Whispering Creek Ranch to take up the reins of her father’s empire.

The last thing she has the patience or the sanity to deal with? Her father’s thoroughbred racehorse farm. She gives its manager, Bo Porter, six months to close the place down.

Bo’s determined to resent the woman who’s decided to rob him of his dream. But instead of anger, Meg evokes within him a profound desire to protect. The more time he spends with her, the more he longs to overcome every obstacle that separates them–her wealth, his unworthiness, her family’s outrage–and earn the right to love her.

But just when Meg begins to realize that Bo might be the one thing on the ranch worth keeping, their fragile bond is viciously broken by a force from Meg’s past. Can their love–and their belief that God can work through every circumstance–survive?

Becky Wade is celebrating her latest swoon-worthy novel, Undeniably Yours (Bethany House), with a Kindle Fire giveaway and hosting an Author Chat party on Facebook {5/29}!

One winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• Undeniably Yours and My Stubborn Heart by Becky Wade

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 28th. Winner will be announced at the "Undeniably Yours" Facebook Author Chat Party on May 29th. Connect with Becky for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Becky will also share an exclusive look at her next book and give away books and other fun prizes throughout the evening.

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

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

Jennifer: An O'Malley Love Story by Dee Henderson (CFBA)

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Jennifer: An O’Malley Love Story Bethany House Publishers (May 1, 2013) by Dee Henderson

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Dee Henderson is the bestselling, award-winning author of 15 previous novels, including the acclaimed O'MALLEY series and UNCOMMON HEROES series. These days, most authors are out there energetically promoting their books in print and broadcast and via social media—wherever they can get attention. But Dee Henderson keeps a low profile. She avoids telephone interviews because of hearing problems, declined to provide a current photo, and will say only that she lives in Illinois.

ABOUT THE BOOK

It's a summer of change for Jennifer O'Malley. The busy physician has a pediatrics practice in Dallas, and meeting Tom Peterson, and falling in love, is adding a rich layer to her life. She's sorting out how to introduce him to her family--she's the youngest of seven--and thinking about marriage.

She's falling in love with Jesus too, and knows God is good. But that faith is about to be tested in a way she didn't expect, and the results will soon transform her entire family.


If you would like to read the first chapter of Jennifer: An O’Malley Love Story, go to HERE.

My Review:
A sweet, sweet prequel to the O'Malley series!

Now, I have not yet read the O'Malley series, it is on my TBR list and I'll eventually get to it. But as a girl who knows nothing of this interesting family, Jennifer's story was the perfect place to start. While this book remains under one-hundred and fifty pages, it possesses a nice tug to keep me reading and interested.

This book was very different for me to read. As I mentioned, it is much shorter than other books out there and left for some conflict to be desired. It felt like things were too perfect on a few occasions.  All that said, Henderson blows a big bomb, and I don't mean literally, right before the end of the book. Readers of her series ought to have a clue, but I didn't.

Jennifer and Tom are both doctors. Jennifer works among kids in the office while Tom preforms  surgeries to make these children better. Jennifer is a giver, who keeps on giving when she's already given her all. Her heart is for her patients whom she calls her kids. Her compassion makes her a hero in a white coat for many of the children. Tom was a very likable hero who brought his cards to the table. He was very gentle with Jennifer when it came to his faith and her lack thereof. I thought he handled the situation stupendously.

To briefly sum up, it was a quick, cute read. Past and present readers will like this one. :)

I received this book from CFBA through the publisher in return for an honest review of my opinions, thanks!

The Revised Life of Ellie Sweet (TNT)

My Review:
Oh my goodness. Fans of Stephanie's Skylar Hoyt series, go buy The Revised Life of Ellie Sweet right now!!

I was super excited to be able to review Ellie's story, especially after I enjoyed Skylar's so well. I must confess, Ellie is now my favorite. A introverted teen, who secretly loves to write, finds herself wanting in seemingly everyone's eyes. Including her parents. The way Miss Morrill styled Ellie's character and personality really shines and is attractive, making it easy to like Miss Sweet despite her flaws.

I love how this book is written in first person. The words flow so smoothly! I seriously could not stop reading once I begun. The need for sleep and a dying laptop battery are the only reasons I ever quit. It's that good, everyone. It's that good.

I also really loved how Stephanie incorporated all of the writing things Ellie experienced and learned. Like how to draft a query letter, proposal, etc. I also liked all the bits about the conference Ellie went too, that was really cool for me, as a teen writer. ;-)

I received this book from the author via Team Novel Teen, thanks!! :)

Book Blurb:
Ellie Sweet is a lot of things—good girl, novelist, silent adorer of the new boy at school, Palmer. But when “outcast” gets added to the list, she decides it’s time to take reality into her own hands … and tweak it as needed.

In the pages of her book, she’s Lady Gabrielle, favorite of the medieval Italian court. Her once-friends are reduced to catty ladies-in-waiting, and the too-charming Palmer—who in real life never spares her a second word—gets to be nothing more than a rake wracked by unrequited love for her. She even has a perfect real-life villain in the brooding Chase, who hails from the wrong side of town.

But just when she’s getting along great in her fictional world, the real one throws her a few curves. With Chase pursuing her, Palmer wanting to date her—but in secret—and the details of her manuscript going public, Ellie suddenly receives more attention than she ever really wanted. And when her former-friends discover what she’s been writing, they’re determined to teach Ellie a lesson about the severe consequences of using her pen as her sword.

You can visit Stephanie at her website: http://www.stephaniemorrill.com/
Or you can connect with her on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/stephaniemorrill

Don't forget to check out the other stops on the tour!
Blooming with Books • Colorimetry • Gillian Adams • Jill Williamson • The Life of a Teenage Writer • Once Upon an Inkling • Pages from My Journal • Rachelle Rea • The Ramblings of a Young Author • Shadow Writer World • Who YA Reading? • The Writings of Rosie • Worthy2Read
 
Think this is where the awesome post ends? Think again! Stephanie has graciously offered up an ebook to give away! Enter below using the Rafflecopter widget. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Review: Grave Consequences by Lisa T. Bergren

My Review: 
An excellent sequel to Glamorous Illusions!


Grave Consequences picks up shortly after the ending of Glamorous Illusions. It took me a few chapters to remember the characters and all that occurred in the first book, but it was easy to catch up. I was quickly reminded of how much I liked Cora. Her bright spirit, her determination, and her new found love of her siblings made me like her all the more.

As for the love triangle, I have always been endeared to Will more so than Pierre. Will is sweet, handsome, and honorable. He's willing to give up everything for Cora, for her safety, for her happiness. He's the perfect hero for us to root for.

This brings me to one of the few things I did not like about this book. I did not like how every man seemed to fall at Cora's feet, enamored. It got old fast and I tired of it midway through. This would have to be the worse fault I found with the book, and I immensely enjoyed the rest.

I am eager for the conclusion, Glittering Promises, to come out this fall!

Many thanks to Rissi, for letting me borrow her copy! No review required. :-)

Back Cover:
For Cora Kensington, the journey of a lifetime takes unexpected twists. And her future—her very life—depends on the decisions she’ll make at each crossroad. As her European tour with her newfound family takes her through Austria, France, and Italy, an unseen enemy trails close behind. Meanwhile, a forbidden love continues to claim her heart, putting everyone’s plans in danger.

And as Cora stays one step ahead of it all, what might need the most protection is her own heart, torn between the dramatic pursuit of a dashing Frenchman and a man who has been quietly staking claim to her affections all along. Love has dangers all its own. She must escape the bonds of the past and discover the faith to make the right choices, as each one has grave consequences.

Little Letters: First Edition

So, I have been wanting to do my own edition of Rissi's Little Letters meme for a long time now, yet never seemed to find the right time. That changes today. So here goes! :-)

Dear Tony Stark, I loved your final Iron Man movie. You've really come a long way since your debut in 2008. I like your humor (sometimes) and believe you and Pepper are the cutest superhero couple.

Dear May, you've started off the month with a bang. Not only did you bring spring with you, but you also brought the heat shortly behind. Not cool. Literally.

Dear Followers, I appreciate each and every one of you! Throwing giveaways for you all is such fun and I can say with authority there shall be another soon. ;-) Thanks for sticking with me.

Dear Star Trek, boy, am I pumped for your next movie! You tease me constantly with your trailers and your wonderful cast interviews! I hope Into Darkness will be just as awesome as the first. See you in theaters real soon!

Dear Writing, I miss you so much. Hopefully I'll be able to squeeze some time in for you tomorrow, because we are long overdue for a rendezvous.

Dear High School, I'm so glad you're over. I'm thankful I can close this chapter of my life and dive into the next. I have several fond memories of my few years spent with you. I will treasure them forever.

Dear College, wow. It's nice to finally meet you. And it's really nice to shock other people with the fact I'm a sophomore now. lol However, my break in August is a really long time away. Please be nice to me until then, thank you. :-)

Dear Color Run, My, I'm excited for you! Training is hard for the moment, but I will relish being able to run across the finish line!

Dear Rissi, I really enjoy your blog and talking with you about the latest book we've both read. You have been a great friend when I needed one. ;-)

Dear Charity, I still have not watched Les Mis 10th Anniversary but I'll get there. In the meantime, I love fangirling with you over LOTRs and Les Mis. :D

Dear Books, there are so many of you! I will really have to prioritize to get you all read, not that I mind. Your wonderful stories keep a smile on my face when studying gets hard. Thank you for that. I'll see you very soon. :)

A Few Thoughts on Creation...

Beautiful...Wonderstruck...Amazing

These are the things that run through my head as I gaze up at the sunrise, the sunset, and the stars. I love the sky when it looks like it's been painted, all the different hues and swirling clouds. I love looking up at the stars on a quiet night, they twinkle back at me and shine bright.

Image Courtesy of Salvatore Vuono / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Creation is such a magnificent thing. It is so vast... Bigger than our wildest dreams. And it is so beautiful. I am in complete awe that my Father in Heaven did this in seven days. Everything from the wide universe in the sky to the land we stand on and everything in between. How incredible! 

Absolutely indescribable.

"...The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork." -Psa. 19:1

A Noble Groom by Jody Hedlund {Litfuse Blog Tour!}

My Review:
A spellbinding read from Hedlund!

It feels like just yesterday I was posting my review of Unending Devotion and now here we are with Hedlund's latest release, The Noble Groom! Right off the bat, I was sucked into Annalisa's dilemma and found myself quickly attached to her and her daughter, Gretchen.

I was also particularly intrigued about how Hedlund would go about spilling Carl's secrets. It certainly went better than I expected, which is a good thing. Secrets and whatnot can easily become clichéd, but in this case it worked well. Carl turned into a great hero after farming smoothed out his rough edges.

Annalisa, despite her age of nineteen, is such an amazing woman and mother. I wanted to applaud her hard work and effort to keep her family afloat. She made such sacrifices; all I wanted was to see her get something for her work, something to make it all worthwhile. All in all, she was a great heroine and perfect for the story.

Hedlund fashions an amazing cast, a realistic setting, and a plot that will make you hold on tight to the book. If you've enjoyed any of her previous novels, then you are sure to enjoy this one.

I received this book from the publisher via Litfuse in return for an honest review of my opinions. Thanks!

Back Cover:
Recently widowed Annalisa Werner has the feeling her husband was murdered but can't prove it. Alone with her young daughter in 1881 Michigan, she has six months left to finish raising the money needed to pay back the land contract her husband purchased, and the land is difficult to toil by herself. She needs a husband. With unmarried men scarce, her father sends a letter to his brother in the Old Country, asking him to find Annalisa a groom.

For nobleman Carl von Reichert, the blade of the guillotine is his fate. He's been accused and convicted of a serious crime he didn't commit, and his only escape is to flee to a small German community in Michigan where he'll be safe. He secures a job on Annalisa's farm but bumbles through learning about farming and manual labor.

Annalisa senses that Carl is harboring a secret about his past, yet she finds herself drawn to him anyway. He's gentle, kind, and romantic--unlike any of the men she's ever known. He begins to restore her faith in the ability to love--but her true groom is still on his way. And time is running out on them all. 

Jody Hedlund is celebrating the release of A Noble Groom by giving away a Kindle Fire and hosting a Facebook Author Chat Party {5/8}! 

One "noble" winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• A copy of A Noble Groom by Jody Hedlund

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 7th. Winner will be announced at the "A Noble Groom" Author Chat Party on May 8th. Connect with Jody, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at the trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be many fun giveaways -- gift certificates, books, and more!

So grab your copy of A Noble Groom and join Jody on the evening of May 8th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 8th!

Book Review: Pilgrimage of Promise by Cathy Bryant

My Review:
This is an amazing, touching, read!

Though I have not read the earlier books in the series it did not take away at all from the story, which was engaging, humorous, at times, and impeccably well done. Bryant has some really great talent and knowledge, something that is very obvious in her writing and characters. It was really hard to quit reading! I finished it in an afternoon.

In Pilgrimage of Promise, Cathy brings to life the 1960s complete with the Vietnam War, Kennedy's assassination, and so forth. To me, this was invaluable. I cannot really get into historical books whose author hasn't done their research. It just doesn't feel real. So definite thumbs up for that. I also liked how she balanced all our questions as we go from the year 2012 to long flashbacks in the '60s. The mystery and the questions really drew me in. In some ways, it felt like we were reading two different stories- a good thing, mind you.

I also adored Mona Beth. I couldn't have asked for a better heroine. She was always loyal to a mere promise and did all she could to help her parents stay afloat financially. Not to mention her faith and trust in God through all her misfortunes. Who could ask for a more likable character?

Anyway, this is one you will want to check out if you're interested. I really enjoyed it and give it a full 5 star rating. My only complaint is it was too short. Without a doubt, if I ever find the time, I will be reading the earlier novels in the series. :-)

I received a complimentary review copy from the author in return for an honest review of my opinions, which I have done. Thanks, Cathy!! 

Book Summary (from Goodreads): 

Broken promises, enduring love...

A dusty stack of unopened love letters forces Bo and Mona Beth Miller to revisit a part of their past they’d rather leave buried–especially in the face of death. Only as they retrace history will they learn the truth about the shattered promise that threatens to come between them. But can their relationship endure the deception and sabotage they unearth, or will the experience compel them to trust more fully in the promises that never fail?

Take a Chance on Me by Susan May Warren {Tyndale Blog Tour!}

My Review:
What an amazing, heart-squeezing, read!


After reading so many great things about Warren's writing, I opted to give her a shot when Tyndale offered up her latest book Take a Chance on Me for review. I am glad to report that I loved the book! Tiger, Darek's son, is A-D-O-R-A-B-L-E! I loved reading about Darek caring for him, it was so sweet and helped endear me to Darek after he was so grumpy in those opening chapters.

Ivy, our heroine, really brings to life the sad realities of our foster care system. I really connected with her sweet personality and love for helping other people. I also really liked how over the course of the novel Warren showed her slowly allowing herself to accept God's unconditional love. I hope we get more glimpses of her in the next Christiansen Family novel, Walk on By, because I truly enjoyed reading about her.

With two primary couples heading the storyline, I thought for sure it would put me off. But it didn't. I found myself completely waist deep in both of their stories and wouldn't change a thing. I'm in love with the small town of Deep Haven and I can't wait to get my hands on some of Warren's earlier works. Fans new and old should enjoy this one!

I received this book from Tyndale in return for an honest review of my opinions, thanks!

Back Cover:
Darek Christiansen is almost a dream bachelor—oldest son in the large Christiansen clan, heir to their historic Evergreen Lake Resort, and doting father. But he’s also wounded and angry since the tragic death of his wife, Felicity. No woman in Deep Haven dares come near.

New assistant county attorney Ivy Madison simply doesn’t know any better when she bids on Darek at the charity auction. Nor does she know that when she crafted a plea bargain three years ago to keep Jensen Atwood out of jail and in Deep Haven fulfilling community service, she was releasing the man responsible for Felicity’s death. All Ivy knows is that the Christiansens feel like the family she’s always longed for. And once she gets past Darek’s tough exterior, she finds a man she could spend the rest of her life with. Which scares her almost as much as Darek learning of her involvement in his wife’s case.

Caught between new love and old grudges, Darek must decide if he can set aside the past for a future with Ivy—a future more and more at risk as an approaching wildfire threatens to wipe out the Christiansen resort and Deep Haven itself.

Go here to read the first chapter!

Sweet Sanctuary by Kim Vogel Sawyer {Litfuse Blog Tour!}

Back Cover (from Goodreads):

Lydia Eldredge longs to provide a sanctuary for her son, Nicky. But a constant threat comes from Nicky's drug-addicted father, who wants the boy and seems willing to do whatever it takes to get him.
Dr. Micah Hatcher serves the immigrant population in Queens, but under cover of darkness he provides another service that must not be discovered lest his and his brother's lives be in danger.
When Lydia and Micah's paths cross, they are suddenly wrapped up in each other's callings. Through unforeseen twists and turns, they seek a refuge of safety--for Nicky, for themselves, and for the needy people God unexpectedly puts in their lives.

My Review: 
A sweet read from Sawyer!

I have been interested to read something from Sawyer for a few months now, considering all the good things I've heard about her writing. And there certainly is something sweet and likable about her writing style. The words flowed easily off the page bringing both the setting and the characters to life. Sweet Sanctuary is the second or third novel I've read set in America during the Second World War and it represents the era well, in my opinion.

Lydia is an unwed mother who only seeks to protect her son. Her compassion, kindness, and faith shines bright amid the dark times she lives in. Though I didn't make a big connection with her, I still ached for her at times throughout the book. When fronted with hard choices she always strove to make the right one, which I found admirable.

In sum, I enjoyed my first read from Sawyer. It doesn't quite make it to my favorites but it still was pleasant. If you're seeking a smooth read with likeable characters, a bit of romance, and an intriguing side plot, then you need look no further. :-)

I received this book from Bethany House through Litfuse in return for an honest review of my opinions, thanks!

To celebrate the release of  Sweet Sanctuary Kim Vogel Sawyer is giving away a Cupcake Club membership (monthly cupcake delivery!) from the amazing Magnolia Bakery in New York and hosting a Facebook Author Chat party {4/30}!

One "sweet" winner will receive:

• Cupcakes from NYC’s Magnolia Bakery delivered to your door every month. (Eat them all yourself or share!)
• Sweet Sanctuary by Kim Vogel Sawyer for you and four of your friends. (Start a book group — cupcakes and a "sweet" read!)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 29th. Winner will be announced at the "Sweet Sanctuary" Author Chat Party on 4/30. Connect with Kim, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at a trivia contest, and chat with readers just like yourself. There will also be fun giveaways - gift certificates, books, and more!

So grab your copy of Sweet Sanctuary and join Kim on the evening of April 30th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book - don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 30th!

Love at Any Cost by Julie Lessman {Revell Blog Tour!}

My Review:
Love at Any Cost is sure to sweep you off your feet!

After a tearful goodbye to the O'Connors, I was ready to introduce myself to the McClares. And boy are they a fun group! Moving away from Boston to the West Coast of San Fransisco, was a nice change of scenery. Truthfully, of the available cities for Lessman to choose, I'm glad she chose the San Fransisco. It really adds something to the flair of the time and the characters. :-)

Cassidy McClare is one heartbroken Texan you don't want to mess with. Having decided she's through with "pretty boy polecats", she wasn't prepared to meet Jamie MacKenna, her cousins' best friend. I felt her emotional transition shift from Mark to Jamie was paced well, and I liked how she clung to God when heartbreak happened again. She's funny, full of spunk, and she has a faith that while it isn't perfect, it is a rock Cassie can hold on to at the turn of the tide.

As much as I tried, I had a rough go of it trying to like Jamie. One minute he's a likable man doing everything in his power for his mother and sister and the next he's kissing Cassie senseless. I only really came to like him as the book drew to a close.

I conclusion, Lessman returns with a new family to love, passionate love interests, a new city to behold, and great writing. I look forward very much to Dare to Love!

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

Available April 15, 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing 
Group.

Back Cover (from Goodreads): 
He's looking to take care of his family. She's looking to take care of her heart.
Trouble is . . . love's looking to take care of them both.

Cassidy McClare is a spunky Texas oil heiress without a fortune who would just as soon hogtie a man as look at him. Jilted by a fortune hunter, Cassidy travels west hoping a summer visit with her wealthy cousins in San Francisco will help her forget her heartache. But no sooner is she settled in beautiful California than Jamie McKenna, a handsome pauper looking to marry well, captures her heart. Can love prevail when Jamie discovers that Cassidy is poorer than he is? And can Cassidy ever learn to fully trust her heart to a man?


Have you seen the cool book trailer yet? 

Winners!!

Hey all! Forgive me for taking so long to get this up, I was trying to wait until I heard back from my winners before I announced them. So without further ado here are the winners of the Shattered giveaway!

Congrats to Karen K. and Leah B.! They have both responded to my email and I will get their books out later this week. ;-) Thank you all for participating! I cannot wait to do something like this again.

Now, a drumroll for the winner of the Go Teen Writer's book...

Summer A! I have sent you an email to the email address you gave rafflecopter and I am still awaiting your reply. Please get back to me by the end of the week or I will pick another winner. Thanks!

Though My Heart is Torn by Joanne Bischof

My Review:
What a spectacular sequel to Be Still My Soul!!

I'm still recovering from the heart-twisting experience I read through yesterday afternoon. Bischof does a wonderful job of bringing her characters to life and enthralling you with their story. There's no way to easily explain in this review how much I'm in love with this series but I'll certainly try!

Since I've already mentioned how realistic Lonnie and Gideon are let me next talk about the supporting cast. In Though My Heart is Torn the memorable characters, Jebediah and Elsie make another appearance. They both are such sweet surrogate parents for Lonnie. I also enjoyed seeing Addie again. That little girl is so cute and bubbly!

I truly felt my heart torn like Lonnie's. I wanted to cry about halfway through. I felt myself walking right alongside Lonnie, aching to help her. I haven't read a book that's drawn me in and swallowed me up before. So as I patiently wait for the next book I'll try not to reread both books over and over...

I received this book from Multnomah though Blogging for Books in return for an honest review, which I have done. Thanks!

Back Cover: 
Gideon O’Riley has two wives—but he doesn’t know it.
 
Settling into a simple life in the majestic Blue Ridge mountains, Lonnie and Gideon O’Riley have finally found happiness after the rocky start to their marriage. The roguish bluegrass musician has fallen in love with his gentle wife and the God she serves, and Lonnie rests secure in his tenderness for her and their young son. A heartless ruse interupts their peace, bringing them back to Rocky Knob—and forces them to face the claims of Cassie Allan, a woman who says she is Gideon’s rightful wife.

As Gideon wades into the depths of his past choices, Lonnie is stunned by the revelations. She has no choice but to navigate this new path, knowing that surviving the devastating blow will take every ounce of strength  she has.

While Gideon’s guilt  and his bitterness towards Cassie threatens to burn up his fledgling faith, Lonnie wrestles to find the courage to trust the God who brought them together in the first place. Will their hard-earned love be able to conquer all?

Lonnie only wanted her husband’s love. Now that he belongs to another, can she surrender Gideon to a God with a bigger plan?

{Book Review} Short Straw Bride by Karen Witemeyer

My Review:
A stellar read from Witemeyer!

From page one my heart adored Witemeyer's endearing character, Meredith, and her handsome hero, Travis. I knew I was up for some heart-string pulling and guessed I wouldn't easily be setting the book down. To say the least, I was right. This is my first novel from Witemeyer and I am very pleased. It makes me look forward to Stealing the Preacher all the more. (Especially because it's about Crockett! :D)

Meredith Hayes is a feisty, stubborn, young woman almost engaged to a businessman she doesn't love. When she overhears this almost-fiancée talking about committing a crime against a childhood hero, she knows she must do something about it. So she does. A dangerous trait Meri possesses is impulsiveness. She is very spur of the moment and doesn't seem to think things all the way through before she acts. This gets her into trouble more often than others would prefer. But I find it hard to criticize Meri when I know I would probably do the same thing, under her circumstances.

Since I don't want to spoil much, I'll end the review with this: Short Straw Bride is set in the late 1800s, Texas this is a cute Christian romance to brighten your day; with a well-rounded cast, a strong hero and heroine, and some humor this is a very pleasant read. :-)

My grandmother bought this book for me, no review required. Thanks, Grandma!

Book Blurb (from Goodreads): 
No one steps on Archer land. Not if they value their life. But when Meredith Hayes overhears a lethal plot to burn the Archer brothers off their ranch, a twelve-year-old debt compels her to take the risk.

Fourteen years of constant vigilance hardens a man. Yet when Travis Archer confronts a female trespasser with the same vivid blue eyes as the courageous young girl he once aided, he can't bring himself to send her away. And when an act of sacrifice leaves her injured and her reputation in shreds, gratitude and guilt send him riding to her rescue once again.

Four brothers. Four straws. One bride. Despite the fact that Travis is no longer the gallant youth Meredith once dreamed about, she determines to stand by his side against the enemy that threatens them both. But will love ever be hers? Or will Travis always see her merely as a short-straw bride? 

{Book Review} Fools Rush In by Janice Thompson

My Review:
A classic from Thompson!

In the Weddings by Bella series it would appear that the focus is all on Bella. No surprise there, right? Haha! Though I have yet to get to the others, I very much enjoyed the first installment. The Rossi family has such an endearing quality, despite the fact they're a little crazy at times. :-)

Getting into Bella's head was a lot of fun, considering I only just met her in Picture Perfect. She definitely is a character I feel a lot of women can relate to. It does help that she's so much fun to get to know. It's because of her flaws that as a reader I could understand her and come to like her as a lead character.

Another likeable characteristic about this book is the lack of a boring moment. Something is always happening around the Rossi family. Whether it's a possible lawsuit about a skateboard, dilemmas of a wedding planner, or family antics I was always smiling. The humor alone makes this book a good read, aside from the theme of putting one's trust in God. I can't wait to read Swinging on a Star and It Had to be You!

I bought this book on Kindle, no review required. 


Book Blurb (from Goodreads):
Bella Rossi may be nearing thirty, but her life is just starting to get interesting. When her Italian-turned-Texan parents hand over the family wedding planning business, Bella is determined not to let them down. She quickly books a "Boot Scoot'n" wedding that would make any Texan proud. There's only one catch - she's a country music numbskull because her family only listens to Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Where will she find a DJ on such short notice who knows his Alan Jackson from his Keith Urban?

When a misunderstanding leads her to the DJ (and man) of her dreams, things start falling into place. But with a family like hers, nothing is guaranteed. Can the perfect Texan wedding survive a pizza-making uncle with mob ties, an aunt who is a lawsuit waiting to happen, and a massive delivery of 80 cowboy boots? And will Bella ever get to plan her own wedding?

Writing Mondays: {Go Teen Writers: How to Turn Your First Draft Into a Published Book}

Hey everyone! Today I want to share with you a resource that has truly helped me in the past couple weeks of using it. What resource, you ask? None other than the Go Teen Writer's book by Stephanie Morrill and Jill Williamson! ;-D Here's the book cover and book blurb.

The question we hear most from new writers is, “How do I get published?”

And the answer is: Respect your dream

Every writer’s journey is different, yet as we’ve reflected on our experiences and those of the writers around us, we've seen time and time again that those who are successful are the ones who had the patience and endurance to stick with this writing thing. They didn't look for shortcuts (at least, not for long), nor did they quit after five, ten, or one hundred rejections.

We can’t make the process easy for you, but it’s our hope that this book will be a tool you can turn to time and time again when you’re thinking, “Okay … what’s next?”

Includes tips for:
-Getting published
-Finding the right agent
-Book surgery
-Thicker plots
-Deeper characters
-Richer settings
-Weaving in theme
-Dealing with people who don't get your writing

I wanted to have finished it before this post got up but alas, that did not happen. I can say with authority, however, that I love everything I've read so far and it has helped tremendously. Already the book has pointed out where some of my WIP's major flaws are and how to fix them. This book is simply invaluable!

If you're a teen writer and you've never heard of the large-and-growing group known as Go Teen Writers, you should check it out today. You won't regret it!  And now, to the best part of the post. Stephanie and Jill are giving away an ebook copy of their book! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

A Few Thoughts on Praise...

Praise...Worship...Fellowship

These are the things I look forward to every Sunday. Getting to fellowship with great individuals, sharing a common interest, a common love for a Savior, pouring our hearts out to Him in song, and, of course, eating great food.

Image courtesy of Chaiwat / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Praise is one of the most important things we as Christians can offer God. We can't give Him gold or silver. We can't give him diamonds or rubies. But we can love Him. We can give Him praise. We can worship Him. We can give Him our very lives. 

And that is all that matters to Him.

"I will give thanks to the LORD according to His righteousness And will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High." -Psa. 7:17