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About the Book
Book: Critical Alliance
Author: Elizabeth Goddard
Series: Rocky Mountain Courage, Book 3
Genre: Christian Mystery Suspense
Publisher: Revell
Release Date: July 5, 2022
Mackenzie Hanson's special set of skills opened the door to a successful career as a professor of cybersecurity at a Michigan university, allowing her to put her criminal past behind her. But when a long-ago partner in crime delivers a cryptic message about her father's tech company being under cyberattack, she heads for Montana to secure exposed assets, close security breaches, and hopefully save lives.
Diplomatic Security Services special agent Alex Knight is back home in Montana to decompress from a mission gone wrong. But even as he's trying to relax, he's drawn into another mystery, complete with suspicious deaths, lethal threats, and whispers of espionage that all have one thing in common--a beautiful cybersecurity expert with a dark past.
When the situation turns deadly, Alex and Mackenzie will have to work together to find the answers they need--before someone silences Mackenzie for good.
USA Today bestselling author Elizabeth Goddard weaves a tangled web of nail-biting suspense and heart-stopping romance in this fast-paced conclusion to her Rocky Mountain Courage series.
Diplomatic Security Services special agent Alex Knight is back home in Montana to decompress from a mission gone wrong. But even as he's trying to relax, he's drawn into another mystery, complete with suspicious deaths, lethal threats, and whispers of espionage that all have one thing in common--a beautiful cybersecurity expert with a dark past.
When the situation turns deadly, Alex and Mackenzie will have to work together to find the answers they need--before someone silences Mackenzie for good.
USA Today bestselling author Elizabeth Goddard weaves a tangled web of nail-biting suspense and heart-stopping romance in this fast-paced conclusion to her Rocky Mountain Courage series.
My Thoughts
I was super excited to return to this series and all the characters that have been interwoven since the first book. The storyline was definitely very good and I really enjoyed learning more about Alex Knight and how he fit into the overall storyline. We have seen him since Book 1 so it was nice to finally see him fully developed and with his own story. We are also introduced to Mackenzie Hanson, whose cyber exploits as she was younger sent her away from her family and somewhat alienated her as well.
This book certainly hit the ground running from the first page. It had twists and turns and plenty of suspense. I must admit that I totally had no clue who the "bad guy" was. My guess was completely off. The author definitely did her research with all the technology/cyber jargon. It's crazy to think that some of these things can actually occur in the world we live today.
The author also does a great job weaving in a faith thread throughout the story. There was also romance which I think moved at a good pace especially since this was not the first time they had encountered each other. I do feel like there could've been more resolution between Alex and his stepfather and also the introduction of a new character towards the end I felt like it was a bit sudden and somewhat abrupt as once again there was no real resolution to it.
Overall I thought this story was pretty good. I was glad to have been able to complete the series and enjoy each of the books. I do think this series should be read in order so that you can understand the personal story between the characters and also get to know some of the characters that appear through the series.
My Rating: 4 Stars/Liked it
I received a copy of this from the publisher Revell. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
To get book news sign up for her newsletter at her website: http://elizabethgoddard.com
Follow her on Bookbub! https://www.bookbub.com/authors/eliza...
You can connect with Elizabeth on Facebook: http://facebook.com/elizabethgoddarda...
or Twitter: http://twitter.com/bethgoddard
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Welcome to the Blog Tour for Guess How Much God Loves You by Karen Ferguson, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: Guess How Much God Loves You Series: Guess How Much God Loves You #1
Author: Karen Ferguson
Publisher: Ambassador International
Release Date: July 19, 2022
Genre: Children's Picture Book, Christian
Guess How Much God Loves You is the story of seven-year-old Lucy Lu, a colorful, creatively curious first grader who is starting to have serious questions about God. Questions like: How old is He? Does He sleep? What does He do all day? And the biggest one of all – does God really love me?
PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indie Bound | BookBub
MY THOUGHTS
Oh we absolutely loved this story! Mrs. Ferguson has written a beautiful story to encourage and inspire children about God's love. In this story we meet Lucy who is discouraged after some children taunt/bully her in telling her that no one likes her. Thankfully Lucy's Papa Joe sets her straight and goes straight to the source; the Bible. Through this Lucy sees that she has not only be made wonderfully but that God's love for her is never ending. The way the author conveys this is by showing us the Creation story and how God made everything with a purpose including you and I.
My children not only loved the story but absolutely enjoyed the illustrations in this book. You can tell that God is at the forefront of this book and it was quite lovely to introduce it to my children. I am very picky on what comes into our home and what lands on our shelves and this is definitely a book I will be purchasing to be with us always!
If you have children or grand children I definitely recommend you grab this one. It would also make a great gift to anyone with children.
My Rating: 5 Stars/Loved it
I received an e-copy of this book through Just Read. I was not required to pos a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Karen Ferguson is a freelance writer and small business owner with a background in K-8 education. A grateful wife, mom, and grandmom she loves words and the Word of God and is passionate about writing stories that grab and hold young readers’ attention, while teaching them all about God’s unchangeable truths, and His unchanging love for them. She wants every child to know that their life matters.
Through her company Illuminate Communications, Karen creates online content and digital products designed to touch the heart and nourish the mind, body, and spirit. She self-published her first book in 2017, a 21-day devotional called Breath of Life: Living God’s Promise of Peace in the 7 Dimensions of Wellness. Karen's children's book, Guess How Much God Loves You, is scheduled for release in July 2022 through Ambassador International.
Connect with Karen by visiting karenferg.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a signed hardcover copy of Guess How Much God Loves You + coloring book + $50 Amazon gift card!
Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight August 8, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on August 15, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.
About the Book
Author: Mary Connealy
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Series: The Lumber Baron's Daughters, Book 2
Publisher: Bethany House
Release Date: July 5, 2022
Her heart seeks safety. But will trouble find her even here?
After her sister's marriage, Michelle Stiles is left hiding at Two Harts Ranch with the handsome but stubborn Zane Hart. She's managed to stay one step ahead of her stepfather and his devious plans, but if he finds her, she will no longer be safe.
Zane has problems of his own. Having discovered a gold mine on his property, he must figure out how to harvest it without kicking off a gold rush. Michelle, educated and trained to run her father's business, wants to manage all aspects of the mine, but Zane thinks for a person so smart she can have some misguided ideas. Running the mining operation will be a dangerous job, and he can't risk putting her in harm's way.
But danger finds Michelle anyway when she's suddenly attacked. If they go to the sheriff, they'll reveal her location, but if they do nothing . . . their troubles have only just begun.
After her sister's marriage, Michelle Stiles is left hiding at Two Harts Ranch with the handsome but stubborn Zane Hart. She's managed to stay one step ahead of her stepfather and his devious plans, but if he finds her, she will no longer be safe.
Zane has problems of his own. Having discovered a gold mine on his property, he must figure out how to harvest it without kicking off a gold rush. Michelle, educated and trained to run her father's business, wants to manage all aspects of the mine, but Zane thinks for a person so smart she can have some misguided ideas. Running the mining operation will be a dangerous job, and he can't risk putting her in harm's way.
But danger finds Michelle anyway when she's suddenly attacked. If they go to the sheriff, they'll reveal her location, but if they do nothing . . . their troubles have only just begun.
My Thoughts
I really enjoyed this next installment from Mary Connealy series the Lumber Baron's Daughter. It was great to come back to Two Harts Ranch and get a step closer to seeing the sisters not only settled but finally getting rid of their step father. In this story we follow the second sister Michelle who is now needing to get married so she an also take control of some of her fathers business. Zane owns Two Harts ranch and seems like there is a heap of trouble heading his way.
The storyline is definitely a lot stronger than the first book but I still felt like it was a bit choppy. I felt like there was a lot going on and some things didn't really felt resolved. I know its a series and I am sure everything will be wrapped up nicely in the last book but I feel like there could've been a bit more. I am all about the marriage of convenience but this one seems so rushed it was hard to fall in love with the characters.
One thing that I do appreciate and love about this author is that her stories are interwoven with a very strong biblical perspective and that is definitely something I look for in books. Despite my thoughts I still would recommend this read but definitely start at the beginning. This is one of those series that must be read in order for you to follow along and understand the characters and storyline.
My Rating: 3 Stars/Liked it
I received a copy of this book through Just Read. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Her most recent three book series are: Braced for Love, A Man with a Past and Love on the Range for Bethany House Publishing. She’s also written four other series for Barbour Publishing and many novellas and several stand-alone books for multiple publishers.
Mary will be a published author for ten years in 2017 with nearly a million books in print. She has a degree in broadcast communications with an emphasis in journalism and has worked at her local newspaper.
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About the Book
Author: Heidi Chiavaroli
Genre: Historical Fiction
Publisher: Hope Creek
Release Date: June 28, 2022
From award-winning author Heidi Chiavaroli comes a sweeping dual timeline story that explores hope and enduring love in the midst of the impossible.
Massachusetts, 1993
After making a grievous mistake that will change her life forever, Emily Robertson is sent away to live with her grandmother on Cape Cod. When Emily finds a timeworn photograph buried in a drawer, she realizes her grandmother has concealed a secret even bigger than her own. Will convincing Gram to reveal their family history help Emily make the most important decision of her life or will it prove her parents right—that family scandal is better off buried and forgotten?
Massachusetts, 1916
Atta Schaeffer plans to marry the man of her dreams and whisk her little sister away from their abusive father. But when she is diagnosed with a dreaded malady, Atta is forced into a life of exile, leaving her sister in harm’s way.
On Penikese Island, Atta’s best hope lies with Harry Mayhew, a doctor who seeks a cure for his patients at any cost. But when experiments fail, Atta runs from Harry—and from God. Can she return to her sister before it’s too late? Or will her illness consume both her body and soul?
A testament to faith and love, Hope Beyond the Waves is the raw account of the journey of two generations of women running from desperate situations toward irresistible hope.
Massachusetts, 1993
After making a grievous mistake that will change her life forever, Emily Robertson is sent away to live with her grandmother on Cape Cod. When Emily finds a timeworn photograph buried in a drawer, she realizes her grandmother has concealed a secret even bigger than her own. Will convincing Gram to reveal their family history help Emily make the most important decision of her life or will it prove her parents right—that family scandal is better off buried and forgotten?
Massachusetts, 1916
Atta Schaeffer plans to marry the man of her dreams and whisk her little sister away from their abusive father. But when she is diagnosed with a dreaded malady, Atta is forced into a life of exile, leaving her sister in harm’s way.
On Penikese Island, Atta’s best hope lies with Harry Mayhew, a doctor who seeks a cure for his patients at any cost. But when experiments fail, Atta runs from Harry—and from God. Can she return to her sister before it’s too late? Or will her illness consume both her body and soul?
A testament to faith and love, Hope Beyond the Waves is the raw account of the journey of two generations of women running from desperate situations toward irresistible hope.
My Thoughts
Wow, wow, wowza!! First of all this is my first ever book by Heidi Chiavaroli and holy cow she blew me out of the water. This story truly captivated me from beginning to end. Definitely one of those stories that I could not put down. This is a dual time storyline which is one of my favorites and honestly I was captivated by both timelines. This dual timeline was like none other that I have ever read as it was told by Emily's grandmother as a story of her past.
I have never read a fiction book based on leprosy so this was my first and I was just intrigued at the fact that this was in existence here in America. When you think of leprosy, at least for me, I think of the Bible or India. Both timelines have amazing and relatable characters that grew throughout the story and both timelines are filled with lessons learned by those characters.
In the present timeline Emily is considered an outcast by her political parents and gets sent to her grandmother so she is not an embarrassment to their career. She is not only hurt but looking for answers on what to do with her life. She lacks hope. In the past timeline we meet Atta who gets diagnosed with leprosy and gets sent to an island to be quarantined permanently. She tries to maintain her faith but loses hope various times.
There is a very strong presence of faith throughout the entire story and characters get closer to God and learn about his grace at different times and at their own pace which I really enjoyed because it made the story and the characters seem more realistic. Let's not forget the romance because there was some and it was lovely, wholesome and what true love (selfless) is all about. You definitely have to read this in order to understand what I am talking about.
The author did a phenomenal job and I for one will be looking for her all books so I can read them all. If you enjoy historical fiction that completely touches your soul go grab this book!!
My Rating: 5 Stars/Loved it!!
I received a digital copy of this book through Just Read Tours. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Heidi Chiavaroli is a writer, runner, and grace-clinger who could spend hours exploring places that whisper of historical secrets. Her debut novel, Freedom's Ring, was a Carol Award winner and a Christy Award finalist, a Romantic Times Top Pick, and a Booklist Top Ten Romance Debut. Heidi makes her home in Massachusetts with her husband and two sons. Visit her online at heidichiavaroli.com
About the Book
Author: Mary Alford
Genre: Christian Amish Romantic Suspense
Publisher: Revell
Release Date: June 7, 2022
When Leah Miller's entire Amish family was murdered ten years ago, the person believed responsible took his own life. Since then, Leah left the Amish and joined the police force. Now, after another Amish woman is found murdered with the same MO, it becomes clear that the wrong man may have been blamed for her family's deaths.
As Leah and the new police chief, Dalton Cooper, work long hours struggling to fit the pieces together in order to catch the killer, they can't help but grow closer. When secrets from both of their pasts begin to surface, an unexpected connection between them is revealed. But this is only the beginning. Could it be that the former police chief framed an innocent man to keep the biggest secret of all buried? And what will it mean for Leah--and Dalton--when the full truth comes to light?
USA Today bestselling author Mary Alford keeps you guessing as two determined souls plumb the dark depths of the past in order to forge a brighter future--together.
As Leah and the new police chief, Dalton Cooper, work long hours struggling to fit the pieces together in order to catch the killer, they can't help but grow closer. When secrets from both of their pasts begin to surface, an unexpected connection between them is revealed. But this is only the beginning. Could it be that the former police chief framed an innocent man to keep the biggest secret of all buried? And what will it mean for Leah--and Dalton--when the full truth comes to light?
USA Today bestselling author Mary Alford keeps you guessing as two determined souls plumb the dark depths of the past in order to forge a brighter future--together.
My Thoughts
Let's start by saying that this is not your typical Amish story! This story keeps you intrigued, captivated and at the edge of your seat from the very beginning. The author does a great job at keeping you reading. I mean this story is full of twists and turns and I have to say I didn't quite figure out the connections between the villain and certain characters until about 90 % of the book.
The main characters Dalton and Leah are two people with a very similar connection. They both have endured death and in a very tragic way. I felt like at the beginning their relationship felt a bit fast but I think it worked well. They both worked well together and although I wasn't swept off my feet that was not the focus of this plot line. The whole focus was figuring out who dunnit.
The mystery was on point and like I said it definitely keeps you in your toes. I feel like the ending almost left us in a cliffhanger despite there being an epilogue. I think there could be more. I don't want to say why I feel this way because then I would give a part of the story away. So when you read it let me know your thoughts!
Overall I thought this was a great book. Mary Alford definitely has a knack for this kind of storyline. There is a huge creep factor and you should not read this when no one is home or in the middle of the night like I did! It reminded me of that show Criminal Minds so if you like that you will like this book.
My Rating: 4 Stars/ Really Liked it
I received a copy of this book from the publisher Revell. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Her titles have appeared on the USA Today Bestselling List, Publisher’s Weekly Bestselling List, and have been finalists in the Daphne Du Maurier award of excellence, The Beverly, The Maggie, and The Selah Awards.
Mary is very active online and would love to connect with readers on Face-book and Twitter or any social platforms listed at www.maryalford.net.
Mary is very active online and would love to connect with readers on Face-book and Twitter or any social platforms listed at www.maryalford.net.
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About the Book
Author: Rachel Fordham
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Publisher: Revell
Release Date: June 7, 2022
As Norah King surveys her family land in Iowa in 1880, she is acutely aware that it is all she has left, and she will do everything in her power to save it--even if that means marrying a man she hardly knows. Days before her wedding, Norah discovers an injured man on her property. Her sense of duty compels her to take him in and nurse him back to health. Little does she realize just how much this act of kindness will complicate her life and threaten the future she's planned.
Norah's care does more than aid Quincy Barnes's recovery--it awakens his heart to possibilities. Penniless and homeless, he knows the most honorable thing he can do is head on down the road and leave Norah to marry her intended. But walking away from the first person to believe in him proves much harder than he imagined.
Rachel Fordham invites you to experience the strength and beauty of love forged in the crucible of hardship in this heartwarming story.
Norah's care does more than aid Quincy Barnes's recovery--it awakens his heart to possibilities. Penniless and homeless, he knows the most honorable thing he can do is head on down the road and leave Norah to marry her intended. But walking away from the first person to believe in him proves much harder than he imagined.
Rachel Fordham invites you to experience the strength and beauty of love forged in the crucible of hardship in this heartwarming story.
My Thoughts
I have read a few books by Rachel Fordham and really enjoyed them but I have to say this by far was my favorite. This book had all the elements and made you feel all the emotions. This story is all about redemption, faith and coming to realize that sometimes what we hope for and dream of may be not be in the same path that God has for us. Our characters definitely realize this especially Norah. I absolutely loved her. She was so innocent and coy. I loved that happiness to her is being on her land, wading in her creek and reading a stack of books. Her faith in God is strong and she portrays that as she takes in Quincy who is in her land and injured.
Oh goodness Quincy... be still my heart he is SO swoon-worthy!! From the very beginning as he lets her babble on he is just the sweetest. I loved how his life turned around and the way it happened. I will not divulge more because then I would give the story away and I don't want to do that. But let's just say you the love story aspect of this story was on point and Rachel Fordham did an excellent job with it.
I can't stop writing about characters until I mention Mrs. Dover, she was a delight and definitely one of those characters that every story needs in order to put things to right. She was like the glue of the plot line. I know you will love her as much as I did!
The story does deal with a rather tough issue of abuse and prostitution but the author does a great job at handling it. It reminded me a bit of the story Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers. It was well handled and definitely added a whole new emotion to the story. One that I wasn't expecting but welcomed.
If you are looking for a new Christian Historical Romance I definitely suggest you grab this one. It was a beautiful story and I know you will enjoy it.
My Rating: 5 Stars/ Loved it!
I received a copy of this book through the publisher Revell. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Rachel Fordham has long been fascinated by all things historical or in the words of her children “old stuff”. Often the historical trivia she discovers is woven into her children's bedtime tales. Despite her love for good stories she didn’t attempt writing a novel until her husband challenged her to do so (and now she’s so glad he did). Since that time she’s often been found typing or researching while her youngest child naps or frantically writing plot twists while she waits in the school pick-up line. In addition to her passion for storytelling she enjoys reading, being outdoors and seeing new places. Rachel lives with her husband and children on an island in Washington state.
Learn more about current projects at rachelfordham.com
About the Book
Book: Elysium Tide
Author: James R. Hannibal
Genre: Christian Mystery / Suspense
Publisher: Revell
Release Date: June 7, 2022
"When the Royal London Hospital orders a top neurosurgeon and workaholic to take a week off in Maui, he stumbles upon a murder and becomes obsessed with finding the killer. His efforts confound and irritate local detective Lisa Kealoha, but once they join forces, they uncover a destructive plot that runs far deeper than either of them could have imagined"
My Thoughts
I have never read anything from this author but I am glad I discovered him. He definitely captivated me right from the beginning and had me reading until I found out what was going to happen. You can tell the author took a lot of time to research multiple subjects. From medical to gangs to police to Hawaii, I mean everything was perfect and so very detailed. I felt like I was reading a Clive Cussler book, which my father in law loves!
We meet Dr. Peter Chesterfield who I must admit I found him rather pompous and Lisa was such a perfectionist it drove me batty but I loved her for it. I don't want to give the story away because there are so many twists and turns. Lots of surprises are in store as you are reading. Some things I truly did not see coming. Definitely keeps you reading late into the night. I absolutely loved the character of Tuna he was definitely needed in the story.
One of the things that bugged me was the faith element. Don't get me wrong, it is there but it could've developed a bit more. I did enjoy that Peter sees Lisa and Tuna's faith lived out right in front of him but I feel like there were so many missed opportunities to really speak some faith into Peter but maybe the author wrote it this way because there will be more stories involving Lisa and Peter in which we see his faith grow?! One could hope!
Overall I thought the book was great. Definitely kept you reading and it was very well developed and had amazing characters. If you enjoy suspense and mystery you will definitely enjoy this one!
My Rating: 3 Stars/Liked it
I received this book through the publisher Revell. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
James R. Hannibal an award-winning author of kids fiction, spy and military thrillers, and young adult fantasy. As a former stealth bomber pilot and drone pilot James is no stranger to action or secrets. He has been shot at, locked up by a surface to air missile system, and aided the capture of High Value Targets.
About the Book
Book: Songs that Could Have Been
Author: Amanda Wen
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Publisher: Kregel Publications
Release Date: June 21, 2022
Two couples in love. Two sets of impossible circumstances. One powerful God of grace.
After a tailspin in her late teens, Lauren Anderson's life is finally back on track. Her battle with bulimia is under control, her career is taking off, and she's surrounded by a loving family. Then a chance meeting with Carter Douglas, her first love and the man who broke her heart, leads to old feelings returning with new strength. And suddenly her well-balanced world is thrown off kilter.
Now a TV meteorologist, Carter is determined to make amends with Lauren. After all, she still owns his heart. But the reasons they broke up aren't lost--and those old demons are forcing him toward the same decision he faced in the past. He isn’t sure he's courageous enough to make a different choice this time around.
When Lauren's elderly grandmother, Rosie, begins having nightmares about a man named Ephraim--a name her family has never heard before--a fascinating and forbidden past love comes to light. As Lauren and Carter work to uncover the untold stories of Rosie's past in 1950s Wichita, they embark on a journey of forgiveness and second chances that will change their lives--and Rosie’s--forever. Along the way they'll learn that God wastes nothing, his timing is perfect, and nothing is beyond his grace and redemption.
The Songs That Could Have Been is full of the same deftly handled, resonant writing that readers and critics alike enjoyed in Amanda Wen's first book in the series. Fans of Lisa Wingate and Rachel Hauck will add Amanda Wen to their must-read shelves.
After a tailspin in her late teens, Lauren Anderson's life is finally back on track. Her battle with bulimia is under control, her career is taking off, and she's surrounded by a loving family. Then a chance meeting with Carter Douglas, her first love and the man who broke her heart, leads to old feelings returning with new strength. And suddenly her well-balanced world is thrown off kilter.
Now a TV meteorologist, Carter is determined to make amends with Lauren. After all, she still owns his heart. But the reasons they broke up aren't lost--and those old demons are forcing him toward the same decision he faced in the past. He isn’t sure he's courageous enough to make a different choice this time around.
When Lauren's elderly grandmother, Rosie, begins having nightmares about a man named Ephraim--a name her family has never heard before--a fascinating and forbidden past love comes to light. As Lauren and Carter work to uncover the untold stories of Rosie's past in 1950s Wichita, they embark on a journey of forgiveness and second chances that will change their lives--and Rosie’s--forever. Along the way they'll learn that God wastes nothing, his timing is perfect, and nothing is beyond his grace and redemption.
The Songs That Could Have Been is full of the same deftly handled, resonant writing that readers and critics alike enjoyed in Amanda Wen's first book in the series. Fans of Lisa Wingate and Rachel Hauck will add Amanda Wen to their must-read shelves.
My Thoughts
This is definitely one of those stories that captures you from the first line. Not because the first line is life changing mind you but because its rather comical and intriguing at the same time. I mean it's literally " Carter Douglas hated running out of makeup." I mean if that doesn't make you stop and want to figure out what is going on I don't know what will! I definitely had to read the story and boy am I glad I did.
This was my first book by this author and I really enjoyed her writing style. I know this is part of a series and I am sure I would've met some of these characters in the previous books and gotten to know more about some of them but honestly reading this story I did not feel like I was missing anything. This is a dual time line but I would not consider it a true dual time line like I am used to reading as it didn't really go back and forth but rather gave us glimpses into the past rather than a true full storyline. But the transitions between the glimpses and the present were done very smoothly.
I really, really enjoyed this story. The are strong themes of faith throughout. The author tackles some heavy topics such as alcoholism, bulimia and dementia/Alzheimers and she does it in a matter that truly captures your heart and tugs at the heart strings. She makes it relatable and true. I personally have encountered these with people in my life and personally and so the story for me definitely more personal. The way she portrays the grandmother, Rosie, had me in tears. I mean I like to think that a person with Alzheimers has that thought process within themselves when encountering family members they cannot recall.
The love story between both Carter and Lauren and Rosie and Ephraim were spectacular. Rosie and Ephraim was unheard of in those days. I mean we all know in the 1950's it was extremely rare and looked down upon for a white and black person to integrate much less fall in love. Their love story was beautiful and heartbreaking. Carter and Lauren's story was equally as emotional. There was some serious baggage between these two. They moved a bit too quick in their relationship but I am glad that it was a wake-up call to them as well and it truly made them see who they were supposed to be in God, in themselves and as a couple.
Overall I thought this story was not only well written but captivating. I can't believe it was my first time reading anything by this author and it certainly wont be my last time!
My Rating: 4 Stars/Really enjoyed it!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
In addition to her writing, Amanda is an accomplished professional cellist and pianist who frequently performs with orchestras, chamber groups, and her church’s worship team, as well as serving as a choral accompanist. A lifelong denizen of the flatlands, Amanda currently lives in Kansas with her patient, loving, and hilarious husband, their three adorable Wenlets, and a snuggly Siamese cat.
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About the Book
Book: Heirlooms
Author: Sandra Byrd
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Publisher: Tyndale Publishing
Release Date: July 5, 2022
After losing her mother, Cassidy Quinn spent her childhood summers with her gran, Helen, at her farmhouse. Nourished by her grandmother’s love and encouragement, Cassidy discovers a passion that she hopes will bloom into a career. But after Helen passes, Cassidy learns that her home and garden have fallen into serious disrepair. Worse, a looming tax debt threatens her inheritance. Facing the loss of her legacy and in need of allies and ideas, Cassidy reaches out to Nick, her former love, despite the complicated emotions brought by having him back in her life.
Cassidy inherits not only the family home but a task, spoken with her grandmother’s final breaths: ask Grace Kim—Eunhee’s granddaughter—to help sort through the contents of the locked hope chest in the attic. As she and Grace dig into the past, they unearth their grandmothers’ long-held secret and more. Each startling revelation reshapes their understanding of their grandmothers and ultimately inspires the courage to take risks and make changes to own their lives.
My Thoughts
This was my first time reading a book by this author and I'm so glad that I was able to be part of her release team! This is a beautiful story that revolves around the lives and relationships of four women. We meet Helen and Choi Eunhee which are Army widows in the 1950's and despite their differences they form a lifelong friendship. In the present day, we meet their grandaughters who also become best friends. I really enjoyed the full circle of the plot.
The women in the story are definitely well written. Helen is very likable and relatable. Despite her loss and hurts she is willing to help someone that others may see as different and truly develops a kinship that she did not expect to happen. Euhnee was so sweet and I really enjoyed how the author portrayed her and taught me about the Korean culture that she came from.
I really enjoy dual timelines especially when they are written well and Sandra definitely does. She had me engaged in both timelines and I was never lost. I am not a gardening person at all, in fact despite my love for flowers my kids tell me I have a black thumb. I definitely try planting though every year and don't give up! Euhnee brings the Victory garden to life and in the process makes the friendship stronger between them.
The storylines almost mirror each other from the past and the present timeline. So very much like what happens in our life as some of the things we go through are the things that our ancestors have as well. I thought that was a very relatable part of the plot line. There is a lot to the story to love. A lot of themes that the author tackles may be sensitive to some like autism, down syndrome, etc... but she did it with ease.
The faith element is there and was done so great. I loved Helen's neighbor whom always showed Christ in the way she talked and lived but never was pushy or overwhelming with it. She definitely lived out her faith and I think that's more of what we need to see in our walk with the Lord. Let people see God in you.
I definitely recommend you pick this one up especially if you enjoy stories about friendships and community!
My Rating: 4 Stars/Really Liked it!
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
In addition, as an editor and an in-demand writing coach, Sandra is passionate about helping writers develop their talents and has coached and mentored hundreds of writers at all stages of their writing careers.
A dedicated foodie from the age of sixteen, Sandra cooks through the topic and location of every book she writes. In her free time, she collects vintage glass and serve ware, loves long walks with her husband, and Sunday Suppers with her growing family.
Reach Sandra Here: https://sandrabyrd.contactin.bio/
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About the Book
Book: The Heart of the Mountains
Author: Pepper Basham
Genre: Christian Romance
Release Date: July 1, 2022
Can their hearts overcome the darkness of the mountains?
To escape a forced marriage, Cora Taylor travels from England to the Blue Ridge Mountains in search of her brother, who is working as a teacher in a mission school. She hopes to find a place where her nursing skills and independent ideas will be accepted and appreciated, but nothing prepares her for the wild mixture of isolation, community, brokenness, and hope within these mountains…or in the person of Jeb McAdams.
Returning from the devastation of World War 1 emotionally damaged, Jeb McAdams struggles against the rampant mountain alcoholism to soothe his nightmares. It’s easy to hide within the mountains, or it was, before Cora Taylor arrived. Now, she seems to show up at every turn, bringing her modern ideas, curiosity, and beautiful eyes with her.
Bound by their shared war history, the pair develop an unlikely friendship, which unexpectedly hints to something more. But when Cora’s desire to help the women of the mountains crosses an unspoken line, will Jeb be able to protect this feisty flatlander from the wrath of the mountain men or will he end up losing much more than his heart?
To escape a forced marriage, Cora Taylor travels from England to the Blue Ridge Mountains in search of her brother, who is working as a teacher in a mission school. She hopes to find a place where her nursing skills and independent ideas will be accepted and appreciated, but nothing prepares her for the wild mixture of isolation, community, brokenness, and hope within these mountains…or in the person of Jeb McAdams.
Returning from the devastation of World War 1 emotionally damaged, Jeb McAdams struggles against the rampant mountain alcoholism to soothe his nightmares. It’s easy to hide within the mountains, or it was, before Cora Taylor arrived. Now, she seems to show up at every turn, bringing her modern ideas, curiosity, and beautiful eyes with her.
Bound by their shared war history, the pair develop an unlikely friendship, which unexpectedly hints to something more. But when Cora’s desire to help the women of the mountains crosses an unspoken line, will Jeb be able to protect this feisty flatlander from the wrath of the mountain men or will he end up losing much more than his heart?
My Thoughts
Every time I pick up a Pepper Basham book I know I'm in for a treat. This book was no exception. It had all the right elements plus so much more. I loved the setting of this story. Set in the Appalachian Mountains it seemed so rustic and secluded but honestly I found it quite peaceful despite all that was happening. Basham does such a great job at describing the setting and gives you all the details to put you right in the midst of it all. Not only does she do that with the setting but also with her characters. Each and every one of them had something to bring to the story. They were so believable and you could connect with them wether in a positive or negative way.
Cora and Jeb... (insert sigh). They were the perfect leading characters. Each had to learn something throughout the story about themselves and their journey with God. When they meet, you know there is going to be a slow burn romance happening and goodness you keep waiting for that first kiss scene that no one but Pepper can write! (I promise you it happens and totally worth the wait!)
Yes, the romance part of the book was amazing but what drew me in the most were the hard topics that Basham tackled in this story. I mean there was prostitution, alcoholism and abuse. She really writes about these in a tasteful manner but at the same time tugging at your soul and making you stop and think of God's redemptive grace while you read the words on this book regarding what these characters are going through. I love how this author doesn't shy away from her faith in her writing but rather holds on to it, breathes it, lives it and you can definitely see that in her writing and also in her life (which you can see if you follow her on social media).
I feel like there is more to this story that can be told! I would like to know about Jeb's sister and her whereabouts but as always I am just a greedy reader wanting more! If you enjoy Christian Historical Fiction I definitely recommend you go grab this one! Oh, and although this is the second in the series it can be read as a stand alone. I did and had no problem following the story but that doesn't mean I will not be reading the first one!!
My Rating: 5 Stars/Absolutely loved it!!
Favorite Musings:
"True, Life and death are in the hands of the Almighty." Her gaze met his "But sometimes our hearts are so much too broken to recognize the idea in our heads."
I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
Pepper D Basham has been telling tales ever since she was a little girl. When her grandmother called her a “writer” at the age of ten, Pepper took it as gospel and has enjoyed various types of writing styles ever since. A native of the Blue Ridge Mountains, mom of five, speech-language pathologist, and lover of chocolate, Pepper enjoys sprinkling her native Appalachian culture into her fiction wherever she can. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC, where she works with kids who have special needs, searches for unique hats, and plots new ways to annoy her wonderful friends at her writing blog, The Writer’s Alley
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About the Book
Book: All That It Takes
Author: Nicole Deese
Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance
Publisher: Bethany House
Release Date: April 5, 2022
When the ever-cautious Val Locklier finally agrees to a cross-country move with her nine-year-old son to take a job with her best friend, Molly, everything she had planned for the future unravels within the first week. After pushing aside her anxieties about renting an apartment from Molly's twin brother, whom she barely knows, she accepts an invitation for an elite filmmaker's mentorship. Caught between her insecurities and new possibilities, she feels completely unprepared for the challenges ahead.
Pastor Miles McKenzie returns home from abroad to discover that not only does he have an intriguing new tenant living upstairs, he's been banished to a ministry on life support. Disillusioned and restless, he pursues a relationship with Val without stopping to consider the timing or asking God to direct his steps.
As Val struggles to stop hiding behind the camera and Miles wrestles with shattered expectations, they'll find that authentic love and sacrifice must go hand in hand.
Pastor Miles McKenzie returns home from abroad to discover that not only does he have an intriguing new tenant living upstairs, he's been banished to a ministry on life support. Disillusioned and restless, he pursues a relationship with Val without stopping to consider the timing or asking God to direct his steps.
As Val struggles to stop hiding behind the camera and Miles wrestles with shattered expectations, they'll find that authentic love and sacrifice must go hand in hand.
My Thoughts
I absolutely loved this story. This was my first story by this author and I am so glad I was sent this book for review because now I am hooked and I must read her other books especially the one previous to this one so that I can know the storyline of the other characters in the story. No worries though this one can be read as a stand alone as I did not feel like I was missing out on anything.
The author does an excellent job at making the characters human and extremely relatable. Like these people could be people you are friends with or encounter in everyday life. Valerie is definitely an insecure woman. She is a single mom and trying to make it on her own without the help of her parents despite how much she loves them. She takes a big step in her life by moving and meets the ever charming Miles. Miles has his own struggles. He is running away from the true calling God has put upon his life but has put blinders on what that calling is. He is trying to make it his way and that is just not going to work. Haven't we all been there before? When you are trying to tell God what is going to happen. He must truly chuckle at us when we try to do that.
I loved the characters Rev and Trisha. They both had a gentle way of bringing forth the truth to Miles and letting him see what direction God wanted him going. Again very relatable as I know personally God sends people into your life to make sure you are truly seeing what HE wants you to do.
Of course there is romance in this story and I absolutely loved it. It may seem that it moves a bit fast but you have to understand that these characters have already previously met in the first book (despite this not being a series") and the pacing throughout it was executed perfectly. Miles is definitely swoon-worthy despite his flaws (thank goodness he has his come to Jesus moment! LOL). I also loved the way that the author handled Valerie's faith journey. She really grew and saw personally how God was moving through her.
Overall I thought this story was fantastic! I think you would enjoy it as well. I will say that the topic of abortion is a key point in the storyline and the author handled perfectly.
My Rating: 5 Stars/Loved it!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher Bethany House. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
To learn more, visit www.nicoledeese.com
About the Book
Author: Ann H. Gabhart
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Release Date: May 3, 2022
Publisher: Revell
Widow Rose Meadows eagerly accepts her brother-in-law's offer for her and her two daughters to live on his farm after her treatments in a sanatorium finds them needing a home. But is this scarred and reclusive man ready for all the changes these women will bring to his life?
My Thoughts
Another wonderful story from Ms. Gabhart! This one takes you to Meadowland where these characters definitely find healing in a very special and unique way. The author does a great job with the characters and making them each unique and have their own storyline. The story does flow seamlessly and you can follow it along quite well. I was glad to see how it all unfolded and the mystery part of the story was surprising to me and did not quite expect it while I read the story.
Dirk's character was my favorite. He was a recluse who struggles not only in his faith but is battling a broken heart. He has a disfigurement due to a fire and feels like he can't be seen as normal to people. When Rose and her girls contact him everything changes and you see him unfolding into something different. You truly see his character grow throughout the story.
I wish there would've been more interaction with Dirk and Rose. I mean there was some, don't get me wrong but the few times that they were together though very important int he story I felt was not enough to develop the relationship that they eventually ended up with.
Overall I thought it was a good story. Ann Gabhart is a wonderful story teller and she truly captivates you with not only her characters but the settings that she writes her stories in. If you enjoy Christian Historical I definitely recommend you grab this one!
My Rating: 4 Stars/Really Liked it
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
About the Author
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