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Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Hunting Shadows



He wasn't supposed to have brought either the weapon or the ammunition back. But he had, because the rifle has become a part of him. And no one searched his kit. Thank God he had.

The man deserved to die. But not this way. Not sacrificing himself. There had to be a better way. Look at it from a different perspective. God had brought this man to him once. He would do it again. All he had to do was wait. However long it took. His patience would pay off. He was ready. And Hutchinson would come to him for the killing.

Once again Scotland Yard has been asked to follow up on not only one murder case but two. When all leads come to a dead end, Inspector Ian Rutledge is called to find answers where there appear to be none. Both victims have strong social connections and both have been shot. The mystery is how they are linked and who has a rifle since all of them were supposed to have been turned in at the close of World War I. But apparently someone didn't and now is taking the time and diligence necessary to make sure that they are not caught and no clues are left behind. Is it possible that killer was a soldier or is it simply being made to look as if it is?

The other victim, Mr. Herbert Swift, a popular Tory candidate was also killed by a single shot while commencing with a public speech down the High Street, ending at the market cross. The only witness can only claim that she saw a monster in ironmonger's dormer window. What's more, the constable and afterward that Inspector Warren from Ely tried but they couldn't shake her account. Is it possible that hobgoblins are present in Fen country? Will Inspector Rutledge be able to find answers before the killer strikes again? Seems like Scotland Yard is Hunting Shadows!

I received Hunting Shadows by Charles Todd compliments of William Morrow, a division of Harper Collins Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed are strictly my own. Once again Charles Todd takes readers back to London to 1920, where Ian Rutledge is called upon to solve a case with very little to go on. I've been a huge fan of his Ian Rutledge Series and this one did not disappoint. I easily rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars and the attention to detail that Charles Todd utilizes in his series makes the reader truly feel like they are part of the action. It is always fun to see if I can solve the crimes before Inspector Rutledge does and I love the historical setting he places his mysteries in. This novel is due for release in January 2014. For more information about Hunting Shadows, Charles Todd or where you can preorder a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:


You can find Charles Todd on Facebook to stay up to date on all his latest novels.

To read more reviews on Hunting Shadows, visit William Morrow's website. 


Tuesday, November 26, 2013

The Pursuit of Mary Bennet



If you are a Jane Austen fan of Pride and Prejudice, you will love this novel. If you haven't seen Pride and Prejudice, watch it and then deeply immerse yourself in the richness this novel offers when it picks up where the original leaves off. It had been quite awhile since I had read or even watched the movie and in order to reacquaint myself in the characters of the Bennet girls I spent some time watching the movie. Since this novel takes a look at life from Mary Bennet's point of view I had to remember who she was. Since she isn't addressed much I wondered why Pamela Mingle chose this particular Bennet girl to write a sequel on, but trust me when I tell you, she needs to be applauded for her efforts. Jane Austen would be proud!

Mary Bennet was the middle of five Bennet girls and one that most of her sisters and often times parents ignored. She wasn't pretty or even possessed any real talent a man looking for a suitable wife would find worth turning his head for. In fact, in Pride and Prejudice, Mary is chastened by her father for her lack of musical talent at playing the pianoforte or even singing. Now after spending time working at music, she possess a fine talent in those areas, but lacking the self esteem or even being bold enough as her sisters, she prefers to read alone or take walks, much like the wall flower she sees herself as.

Even her parents know that Mary will undoubtedly be an old spinster lacking in finding a suitable husband and her best outcome in life will be the governess for her older married sisters Jane or Elizabeth. But deep down inside Mary wants more but isn't sure how to find it. She is constantly reprimanded whenever she offers an opinion in any situation because she lacks the experience in such areas that her opinion isn't considered from love to marriage or even raising children. When her younger sister Lydia returns home while expecting a child from her husband Mr. Wickham, it throws the Bennet household into more scandal. In fact it turns out that Lydia isn't sure the child she is carrying is even her husbands and she has left him.

Mary is taken to her sister Jane's while the family decides how to best handle Lydia's latest predicament and to avoid having the rest of the daughter's tainted in the process. As only one of two sisters now left unmarried, Mary finds herself drawn to Mr. Henry Walsh. He seems genuinely interested in her as well but when Kitty, Mary's youngest sister deems that Henry is off limits, will Mary once again fade into the shadow or will she fight for what she wants in life?

I received The Pursuit of Mary Bennet by Pamela Mingle compliments of William Morrow, division of Harper Collins Publishers for my honest review and did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review. However, this one was so worth taking the time to spend with Mary Bennet. I think out of all the Bennet daughters, I myself, relate to her more than the rest of the girls. Pamela Mingle did such a flawless job, I felt Jane Austen herself had written this one. I can easily give this one a well deserved 5 out of 5 stars and was so thrilled to be able to review this one. This is such a treat and to spend time savoring each page was well worth curling up with on a rainy cold evening. A MUST HAVE for any fan of Pride and Prejudice!

For more information about The Pursuit of Mary Bennet, Pamela Mingle, or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:


You can also find Pamela Mingle on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest novels.

  • Paperback: 320 pages
  • Publisher: William Morrow Paperbacks (November 26, 2013)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0062274244
  • ISBN-13: 978-0062274243
  • Product Dimensions: 7.9 x 5.2 x 1 inches






Monday, November 25, 2013

Aloha Rose



I couldn't imagine not knowing anything at all about my family. That is just what Laney Carrigan is dealing with after learning that her entire family roots are tied quite literally up in a quilt she was wrapped up in the day she was given to her birth mother. That is the only clue linking her to knowing more about who she is and where she comes from. The beautiful pink and white red rose snowflake appliqued on the quilt will point her to a family that has been waiting for decades to know more about her. This search takes her to the Big Island of Hawaii after discovering a response to a picture she posted on the internet searching for answers. But all isn't quite as welcoming on the island as Laney had hoped.

Upon arriving at the airport she is immediately met with apprehension by Kai Barnes, a man who has been trying to figure out just who Laney Carrigan really is. Seems like all the usual ways of discovering some clues about who someone is are coming up with a solid brick wall. Kai truly believes that Laney is just someone who is looking for money by coming to Hawaii. He doesn't believe that she has any place within his Ohana and will set out to prove to his family just what she is really hiding, if he can only find it.

Lisa Carter is the latest author to take her turn at the Quilts of Love Series, with her novel Aloha Rose. Perfect warm tropical waters and the smell of plumeria fill the readers senses as you begin this mystery into who Laney Carrigan really is and what her link is to family she finds on Hawaii. This is simply perfect to immerse yourself in right in the middle of winter to give yourself a bit of a virtual tropical vacation. My only downside to this novel was the difficulty at the beginning where I felt the author tried to introduce too many characters for the reader to take in. I would have liked to have seen a slower progression to allow the reader to understand where Laney was coming from as well as all the family she is introduced right off the bat upon arriving on the Big Island. With that being said, I give this one a 4 out of 5 stars in my opinion. There is a discussion guide included that makes this a great novel to introduce to book clubs and a sneak peek into the upcoming addition to the Quilts of Love Series, Tempest's Course by Lynette Sowell.

I received Aloha Rose by Lisa Carter compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance and Abingdon Press for my honest review and received no monetary compensation for a favorable review. This is the 12th book in the Quilts of Love Series. For more information about Aloha Rose, Lisa Carter or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:


You can also find Lisa Carter on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest novels.

To read more reviews from the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance Book Tour, please click here. 

  • Series: Quilts of Love (Book 12)
  • Paperback: 240 pages
  • Publisher: Abingdon Press (November 19, 2013)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1426752733
  • ISBN-13: 978-1426752735
  • Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.5 x 0.8 inches

Sunday, November 24, 2013

This Dark Road to Mercy



Sometimes the cruelest lesson in life is the dark road to mercy we have to walk. When life doesn't had us the expectant pleasures one only hopes childhood offers. For some, childhood is just a place to be for the present moment because it offers very little else. Such is the outlook for Easter and Ruby, respectively 12 and 6-years-old who have been dealt a bad hand. Their mother commits suicide through a drug overdose, but not before she can raise her children to learn that their father abandoned them long ago. He literally signed away his rights claiming them as his children. Now forced to exist within a foster care system, their father, Wade an ex-minor league baseball player now decides this is the time to make amends with his children. Only because of the time spent living a life of wondering just where they fit in, they have become jaded to any attempts at reconciliation at this point believing foster care is better than a life with their biological dad.

No matter how hard Wade tries, it will take more that any amount of time he has to gain the trust and respect back of his daughters. So he kidnaps them instead of trying to work through their differences. He has suddenly come into a great deal of money and believes if given the time, he can have his family back. But what he doesn't understand is that there is a cost to everything in life. A cost at being a dad, a cost at being a finding a way to start over. When he unearths 250,000 dollars while working on a construction project in the basement of a client, he believes he has seed money to do just that. Now if he can only convince his daughters of his intentions.

Like all great stories, this one does involve a dark sinister villain and of course the money isn't an unexpected windfall like Wade had hoped. Once again there is a cost involved and this one may in fact place all of their lives in jeopardy when Wade learns the money he "found" belongs to a major crime boss who has now placed a hit on Wade's life. Little does Wade know that the man hired to kill him is one he has crossed darker paths with in his earlier life. Will this story win up with a happy ending? You'll have to pick this one up to truly find out. The journey is always darkest before the dawn.

I received This Dark Road to Mercy from author Wiley Cash compliments of William Morrow, a division of Harper Collins Publisher for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation and the opinions expressed here are my own. This book is slated for release in January of 2014, but if you like stories with a dark past that many of us often carry with us looking for not only redemption but a second chance, then this one will answer that call. I'd rate it a 4 out of 5 stars.

For more information about This Dark Road to Mercy, Wiley Cash or where to preorder a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:


You can also find Wiley Cash on Facebook to stay up to date with all his latest novels. 
To read more reviews on This Dark Road to Mercy visit William Morrow online.
  • Hardcover: 240 pages
  • Publisher: William Morrow (January 28, 2014)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0062088254
  • ISBN-13: 978-0062088253
  • Product Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 0.9 inches




Saturday, November 23, 2013

The First Christmas Night - Giveaway



We all know the famous story of the Night Before Christmas, and that's why I am thrilled to let you know about another book, I believe will soon be a Christmas Classic as well. The First Christmas Night is a beautifully detailed illustrated children's book read along the same lines as The Night Before Christmas sharing that beloved Christmas story about the night of our Savior's birth.

"Twas the very first Christmas, 
when all through the town
not a creature was stirring - 
there was not a sound. 

The moon, shining bright
in the heavens so high, 
gave the luster of midday 
to the Bethlehem sky."

Written by Keith Christopher and illustrated by Christine Kornacki, I know this will be one book you want to make sure has a treasured place in your home during the Christmas season. Taking the story from Luke's gospel this version is geared for your child to welcome the true reason for the Christmas season. It's simple and straight to the point but what my favorite part of the book is the illustrations. I just know your child will love looking at the pictures and can imagine that during each time this book is read the memories that will be made will last forever. Over time, soon your child will be able to quote the Biblical side of that wondrous night so many years ago. The story of Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem and the night of the glorious birth of Jesus Christ.

This book is written for children ages 4-8 and the rhyming language can help them develop verbal language skills and learn to read. There are 32 pages that I know your child will love looking at again and again. I received a copy of The First Christmas Night by Keith Christopher compliments of Ideal Books and FlyBy Promotions for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed in this review are my own.  I give this one a 5 out of 5 heavenly stars!!!

Now for the best part....

Thanks to the generous folks at FlyBy Promotions and Ideal Books, they are offering a hardcover giveaway copy to a follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart. Here are your guidelines to enter:

1. Be a follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart. 

2. "Like" Ideals Books Facebook page.

3. Must be a resident of the US or have a US shipping address. Please No P.O. Boxes. 

4. Leave a comment below telling me why you'd love to win a copy of this book along with your email address. You can use the words (at) and (dot) instead of the symbols.

I will notify the winner of this giveaway by email so make sure to include it with your comment below when it ends on November 30th. 

For more information about The First Christmas Night, Keith Christopher or where to pick up a copy of this book today, please click below:


You can find more outstanding books on Ideals Books Facebook page

  • Hardcover: 32 pages
  • Publisher: Ideals Children's Books, an imprint of Ideals Publications (October 1, 2013)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0824956532
  • ISBN-13: 978-0824956530
  • Product Dimensions: 10.2 x 10.1 x 0.4 inches





Friday, November 22, 2013

Stones for Bread



"Alexandre Dumas, père, wrote of bakers:

In Paris today millions of pounds of bread are sold daily, made during the previous night by those strange, half-naked beings one glimpses through cellar windows, whose wild-seeming cries floating out of those depths always makes a painful impression. In the morning, one sees these pale men, still white with flour, carrying a loaf under one arm, going off to rest and gather new strength to renew their had and useful labor when night comes again. I have always highly esteemed the brave and humble workers who labor all night to produce those soft but crusty loaves that look more like cake than bread...

It is bread that keeps them alive. Give us this day our daily bread, they pray, and they praise the Almighty for it.

Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.

So, I pack the bread in bags, like I will for any paying customer. I don't send burnt loaves or stale loaves, or any kitchen experiment I don't believe is quality enough to sell. I will not give to the least of these anything I will not offer to my Lord, should he walk into Wild Rise one afternoon and ask for a little something to eat.

The secrets of baking have, until relatively recently, always been passed from mother to daughter. I was young, eight perhaps, when my own mother tied her apron around my waist and told me it was time for me to show her how much of what she taught me I remembered. It was time for me to make my first loaf without help or instruction. No recipes. Just my senses. And I did. It was a square loaf of wheat bread. A little too dense. A little too brown. But we ate it at supper that night, my father, my mother, and I, with butter and salt, rewarmed in the oven. And my mother said to me, "You're now the keeper of bread." It was my right of passage."

In the novel Stones for Bread, author Christa Parrish takes the readers into much more than a contemporary story about the art of making bread. She touches those warm places within our hearts that sense more to bread than just what we eat. It becomes part of who we are and provides nourishment to both the heart and soul of those we make it for. It is a piece of ourselves.

The story is based around the life of Liesl McNamara, owner and baker at Wild Rise, a bake house in Vermont. Her's is a story of the generations of bread bakers beginning with her grandmother and mother til finally resting within herself. The story winds its way into Liesl's tragic childhood and culminates with her being entered in a reality show called Baked Off by one of her employees. Woven in between are the mouth-watering recipes of 11 Artisan Bread that you will find takes time to make just perfect but well worth the effort. This is simply a story to be experienced and enjoyed from cover to cover and trust me, you'll never look at a loaf of bread the same again. I rate this one a 4 out of 5 stars.

I received Stones for Bread by Christa Parrish compliments of Thomas Nelson Publishers and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed in this review are strictly my own. For more information about Stones for Bread, Christa Parrish or where to pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:


You can also find Christa Parrish on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Stones for Bread from the Litfuse Publicity Book Tour, please click here.

  • Paperback: 336 pages
  • Publisher: Thomas Nelson (November 5, 2013)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1401689019
  • ISBN-13: 978-1401689018
  • Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.2 x 1 inches 

Christa Parrish is celebrating her fourth novel, Stones for Breadwith a KitchenAid Mixer giveaway.
#StonesforBread KitchenAid Mixer Contest #ChristaParrish http://bit.ly/1aBTNz9

Easy steps to enter:

1. Follow Christa Parrish and TNZ Fiction on Pinterest.

2. Then Pin the Stones for Bread book cover (below), the contest graphic (above), or both, and link to this post (using this URL: #StonesforBread KitchenAid Mixer Contest #ChristaParrish http://litfusegroup.com/campaigns/stones-for-bread-by-christa-parrish).

3. Then fill out THIS SHORT FORM to let us know. (There are also some additional ways to earn extra entries, as well as an option for non-Pinterest users. It's true—people like that do exist!)

Questions? Email info @ litfusegroup dot com.

Winner will be announced on 12/9 on Christa's Facebook Page.


A Marriage in Middlebury



To a live a life of regrets isn't living a life at all. For Charlotte Rose Hill, she has found that being the owner and operator of Rose Hill Tea Cottage has allowed her to pour her heart and soul into serving others. Not only in the specialty blends of tea she makes for each of her customers but also in providing them with an outlet to share the warmth and love of friendship just by listening to whatever is on their hearts. Nothing soothes a soul like a warm cup of tea and open heart willing to help. Now if only someone can do the same for Charlotte.

The last thing she expected to walk in her door was the man who she had given the key to her heart many years ago, but the man who when he proposed to her, she had said no. Not because she didn't love him but because of family secrets his father had threatened to expose if her answer was anything but no. Now that Sam Wilder has returned she wonders if there is a second chance at love for them. But when he introduces his fiancèe Audrey, her hopes are dashed once again. She can only wish that Sam and Audrey leave once they have settled his father's estate.

Yet it seems that God has other plans in mind, when Audrey suggests that Charlotte cater their wedding reception and have agreed to host a garden wedding on the Wilder's property. How can Charlotte possibly keep her feelings on the back burner when it seems at every turn she is once more asked to be a part of Sam and Audrey's wedding plans. How can she say no to them when she has made appearances to everyone in town that she has moved on. If only she can find a way to begin dating again. Perhaps if she gave someone else a chance she might find the happiness that keeps eluding her at every time she turns around.

I received A Marriage in Middlebury by Anita Higman compliments of Abingdon Press and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed are strictly my own. I absolutely LOVE this heart warming story. I can picture the quaint Rose Hill Tea Cottage where the town's residents gather for more than just a cup of tea. It's a place where people can find comfort in the out pouring of their hearts and souls and Charlotte is the perfect person to help them in any way she can. This one hands down wins a 5 out of 5 stars in my book and is one to be enjoyed over some butter cookies, a cup of your favorite blend of hot tea and a cozy place to cuddle up for a great novel. I can't wait to see if Anita expands this into a whole series, since the people you come to love and know in the book have their own stories to share.

For more information about A Marriage in Middlebury, Anita Higman or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:



You can find Anita Higman on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on A Marriage in Middlebury from the Litfuse Publicity Book Tour, please click here.

  • Paperback: 304 pages
  • Publisher: Abingdon Press (November 5, 2013)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1426733879
  • ISBN-13: 978-1426733871
  • Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 0.9 inches
Anita Higman is celebrating the release of her latest book, A Marriage in Middlebury, with a double Kindle Fire giveaway (one for you & one to give away!) and a "Tea for Two" Facebook Author Chat Party on December 12th.


middlebury-400

One winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire for you AND a friend
  • A Marriage in Middlebury by Anita Higman (one to keep and one to give away!)
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on December 12th. Winner will be announced at the "Tea for Two" Facebook Author Chat Party on December 12th. Invite your friends and connect with Anita for an evening of book chat, prizes, and an exclusive look at Anita's next book!

So grab your copy of A Marriage in Middlebury and join Anita on the evening of December 12th 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 by clicking JOIN at the event page. Spread the word — tell your friends about the giveaway and party via FACEBOOK or TWITTER. Hope to see you on 12/12!

Thursday, November 21, 2013

Critical Reaction



Kieran Mullaney wasn't even supposed to be working at LB5 but with the shortage of staff recently, he was one of two employees that were assigned clean up in the Hanford Nuclear Facility. As long as the radiation sensors remained green, the environment was considered clean. When walking past a door that seemed to register some abnormal heat levels, Kieran pushed past the security doors to investigate. He found the the containers inside the room were literally on the verge of exploding and he had just enough time to warn his partner. Now racing against time and the sensors that were now changing to red indicating a radiation leak was spreading fast. If only he could get out in time.

Thankfully Kieran survived the nuclear blast but not without side effects. Plagued with chronic headaches and deep violent coughs every couple of days. They seem to build up. Yet it seems that Hanford Nuclear Facility is harboring more secrets than what Kieran has been told. Being told he wasn't exposed to any radiation despite what he saw just before the explosion with the radiation sensors, he has no choice but to sue Covington Nuclear which operates the Hanford Nuclear Facility. He doesn't want what happened to his father to be the same outcome for him. Only when his attorney pulls out at the last moment, Kieran contacts Emily Hart, an old friend of his who has recently practiced law. It's really her father that offers his only hope but lately Ryan has more on his mind than practicing law.

He's struggling to find a connection with his daughter Emily, now since losing his wife. He only hopes that despite the odds stacked against him of winning this case with Emily, that they can find a way to heal the rift that has only grown between them. It seems however that Hanford may be truly hiding evidence that would prove Kieran's case but until they can find the right witnesses and evidence that is literally disappearing before their eyes at every bend, Hanford may in fact win.

I received Critical Reaction by Todd M. Johnson compliments of Bethany House Publishers and Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed are strictly my own. The beginning of the novel is a bit confusing and I found myself struggling to get my bearings to continue. Having LOVED Todd's previous novel, The Deposit Slip, I was hoping it was just a rough beginning. I am glad I dug deep and persevered. There are a few storylines that open the book and once those are sorted out, you start rolling right along with the mystery and intrigue Todd was going for. This conveys the scary details you have to consider after the recent nuclear power plant meltdown in Japan recently. But once again Todd puts a unique spin on this one. I rate this one a 4.5 out of 5 stars and look forward to more novels like this one. A must read for fans of John Grisham and James Patterson.

For more information about Critical Reaction, Todd M. Johnson or where to pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:


You can also find Todd M. Johnson on Facebook to stay up to date with all his latest novels.

To read more reviews on Critical Reaction from the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance Book Tour please click here. 

  • Paperback: 384 pages
  • Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (November 19, 2013)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0764210157
  • ISBN-13: 978-0764210150
  • Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.4 x 1.2 inches

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Christmas From Heaven/Ornaments

Being a huge lover of History, I was so thrilled when I got a surprise request to review not only a book, Christmas From Heaven but wrapped up like a true gift was a DVD recording from Tom Brokaw that captured the retelling of this wonderful story. You get to chose between either simply reading the wonderful book, Christmas From Heaven or watching it being narrated by Tom Brokaw along with musical accompaniment from the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.



Christmas From Heaven conveys the historical significance of Lt. Gail Halvorsen, a young pilot in the US Army Air Corps who was assigned as a cargo pilot to the Berlin Airlift, in which US forces flew much-needed supplies into a Soviet blockaded Berlin. As he performed his duties, Lt. Halvorsen began to notice the German children gathered by the fences of the Tempelhof Air Base. Knowing that they had very little, he one day offered them some chewing gum. From that small act, an idea sprang: He would "bomb" Berlin with candy. Fashioning small parachutes, he and his crew sent them floating down as they approached the Berlin airport, wiggling the wings of their C-54 as a signal to the children that their anticipated cargo would soon arrive.

Lt. Halvorsen became known by hundreds, if not thousands, of children in Berlin as "Uncle Wiggly Wings" or "The Candy Bomber." Word soon spread, and donations of candy and other supplies poured in from sympathetic Americans. Lt. Halvorsen's small idea became a great symbol of hope not only to the German children in a bombed-out city but to all those who yearned for freedom. It showed everyone in the midst of a war what the true spirit of Christmas looks like.

Famed broadcast journalist and author Tom Brokaw brings this remarkable story to life in a stunning live performance with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, captured on the accompanying DVD. Also included in the book is a template and directions for creating your own "Candy Bomber" parachutes. At the ending of this DVD you get to see Gail Halvorsen, now 92 years young. See if this story doesn't make you cry. One selfless act brought hope to those who only knew the horrors of what war would bring.



In addition to this wonderful book, I also got the opportunity to review a collection of Christmas ornaments called the Biblical Names of Christ. These are so beautiful to add to the Christmas Tree Decorating that you and your family take part of and as you add each of them to your tree, on the back of the box are Bible Scriptures that accompany each name of Jesus Christ. There are 12 star-shaped antique pewter-finish ornaments you can use as gift tags, adorning a wreath on your front door or added to your Christmas tree this  year. Create a Christ-focused holiday tradition as you review the sacred names of the Savior.

I received both the book/DVD Christmas From Heaven and the 12 Biblical Names of Christ Ornaments compliments of Deseret Books and Shadow Mountain for my honest review of these products. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed are strictly my own. I think both of these items would make a wonderful gift this Christmas in order to keep the Spirit of Christmas and Jesus at the center of our celebrations. The ornament collection can only be purchased through the link below.  I rate both of these products a 5 out of 5 stars and for more information on either product, please click on the links below: 













Tuesday, November 19, 2013

When Calls The Heart - DVD Giveaway



What happens when you blend together two very different periods in time into a poignant movie? For me, you get a sensational movie to speaks to both your heart and soul! Think Dowtown Abbey meets the old west and you have the backdrop to When Calls The Heart, a family movie from Michael Landon Jr and Word Films.

This is the film adaptation of the story by best selling author Janette Oke about Elizabeth Thatcher (Poppy Drayton) who wishes to make a difference in her life by using her teaching skills to work in a school. But soon after meeting with Mr. Higgins, she learns the only way she'll be able to get a teaching position is if she is willing to do whatever it takes to show Mr. Higgins just how grateful she truly is. However Mr. Higgins isn't suggesting the same type of gratefulness that Elizabeth is. She is horrified to learn that when she declines his proposition, the only available teaching position he offers her, is one out west in Coal Valley that he believes she will never take. Being the daughter of a prominent high society family, she feels confident she should prove them all wrong, even her parents who believe that the horrors of living on the west will be more than she can handle.

Her sister Julie, even goes so far to prove her point by suggesting she live in the old caretakers cottage on the family estate without aid of servants to cook and clean for her. She doesn't expect Elizabeth to take the wager and believes her strong determination to prove her family wrong will ultimately win. But Julie isn't about to be swayed. She takes it upon herself to make sure that Elizabeth is an uncomfortable in the cottage as possible even using some hints from an old family diary she discovers locked in her parents safe to help speed along the wager.

However armed with the determination of not only in proving her family and Mr. Higgins wrong, Elizabeth immerses herself in the diary of her Aunt Elizabeth (Maggie Grace) who left the family to head west for a teaching position herself in Pine Springs and chronicles just how difficult it was but how perseverance and faith in God allowed her to triumph where others believe she would fail. The movie toggles between the story of both Elizabeth's living in different time periods but with similar circumstances that cheer one another to move forward in their quest to do what each of them believes is a calling in their own heart to make a difference.



I received When Calls the Heart compliments of Word Films and Edify Media for my honest review and did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable one. My only wish is for more of this series. My youngest daughter when we viewed the trailer couldn't wait for the movie to come in the mail to review. She was anticipating this one as much as I was. We were not disappointed when we literally watched it the same day we got it. She even cried during the movie but it goes to show just how much storms will try our character and faith but in the long run, it truly is worth the effort. Hands down, a perfect 5 out of 5 star rating in our opinion and one we have added to our own personal family library collection. This is a film for all ages to view and LOVE that more films like this are being masterfully created for us to enjoy at home. This movie aired previously on the Hallmark Channel and had led to the creation of a television series coming in 2014. This movie received 5 doves for family entertainment.

For more information about When Calls The Heart, Word Films or where to pick up a copy of this DVD today, please click on the links below:


You can follow When Calls The Heart on Facebook to stay up to date on the upcoming series.

Now for the best part, thanks to Edify Media, they are providing a copy of When Calls The Heart to one lucky follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart. Here are your guidelines to enter.

1. Be a follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart. 

2. Be a resident of the US or have a US Shipping Address. Please No P.O. Boxes.

3. "Like" When Calls the Heart on Facebook. 

4. Leave a comment below along with your email address telling me why you'd like to win to a copy of this DVD. You can use the words (at) and (dot) instead of the symbols. I will notify the winner by email once the review ends on November 30th.







For Love or Loyalty



Hard to believe when looking at plaid fabrics that each of these is like a calling card of sorts. In Scotland, each clan or family was identified based on the plaid fabric that each of them wore over their clothing, that way they could easily be identified as friend or foe. In the case of the latest novel from Jennifer Hudson Taylor, it identified the members of the MacGregor or Campbell family who remained at more than just odds with one another. The Campbell family was in a position of collecting rent from the land that MacGregor's village was set up on. When the rent was late, they made sure to extract not only the money but interest as well. If they were unable to collect it in cash, they took it out in other ways. That is just what happened when Malcolm and his brother Thomas came home to after a long journey.

Their family home was burnt to the ground and his youngest brother Graham fought valiantly to keep his mother and sister from being taken as indentured servants. Now while he recovers, Malcolm searches for clues to where his mother and sister might be. While sending out spies for answers to search in the surrounding countryside, one of them returns with just the right kind of answer to his dilemma, the daughter of Glenn Campbell, Lauren. He has decided she will be the wagering pawn to get his family back no matter what the costs. He just didn't see that the Campbell clan would sell his family as servants on a ship bound to South Carolina. He didn't plan on taking Lauren with him on that journey to find his family and he gets so much more than he ever dreamed he'd bargained for.

The last thing that Lauren had hoped was that her faith in God would be tested in ways she could never imagine. Being treated as a slave in hopes that her father would do whatever it took to get her back, she knows that her father might search for her only as a way of maintaining his loyalty to his clan but based on the years of living with her father, she knows he does not love her like she wants. Perhaps if Malcolm wanted a true bargaining chip, he should have taken her brother instead. But her loyalty to God will enable her to do whatever she can to win over Malcolm's heart and soul. She believes God placed him in her path so she can help him find salvation for his soul. The journey has only just begun but the storm is brewing on the horizon.

I received For Love or Loyalty by Jennifer Hudson Taylor compliments of Abingdon Press for my honest review and did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable one. I found myself walking away with a deep Scottish accent after reading this one, because the author writes so well you feel completely immersed in the culture and setting of her book. We have all had times where our faith is tested, where we simply wonder if there is a point to all of this much like Lauren. However skilled mariners are not made in quiet coves but in turbulent storms and that is just what happens in this case. Lauren by far, is my favorite character because her default mode is always God and her faith in Him, no matter how bleak the circumstances. It shows the reader how powerful that can be to people who only see our faith from our actions lived out among us, much like Malcolm. He is completely baffled by Lauren's refusal to act as he thinks she should given her circumstances. A true test of faith. I give this one a 4 out of 5 stars and this is the first novel n the MacGregor Quest Series.

For more information about For Love or Loyalty, Jennifer Hudson Taylor or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:


You can find Jennifer Hudson Taylor on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on For Love or Loyalty, please visit Abingdon Press' website.

  • Series: The Macgregor Legacy
  • Paperback: 352 pages
  • Publisher: Abingdon Press (November 5, 2013)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1426714696
  • ISBN-13: 978-1426714696
  • Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 1 inches

Monday, November 18, 2013

Christmas in Apple Ridge



What a surprise I got when I asked to review Christmas in Apple Ridge from best selling author Cindy Woodsmall, a collection of three novels all rolled into one beautiful book!!! This novel combines three beautiful Amish novels in one beginning with The Sound of Sleigh Bells, The Christmas Singing and wrapping up with the newest The Dawn of Christmas. For those of you looking for a great collection all in one book, then this is it for fans of Amish Christian fiction. Cindy Woodsmall is known for writing amazing Amish fiction and couple this with the celebration of Christmas and you know you have a true winner.

The Sound of Sleigh Bells begins this collection when Beth Hetzler heads off on her yearly journey out of town to find new items to carry in Hertzler's Dry Goods among the Amish and English. What she doesn't expect to find is an item carved in wood that truly speaks to her heart and soul. It is one she simply must have and it true is one-of-a-kind. One that just might make this Christmas more memorable when she discovers through writing letters to a wood carver that she just might have found her soul mate.

The Christmas Singing is must like the first novel in this collection involving heart ache and moving on in life. This time Mattie is struggling to find that new purpose in life after losing her heart to her childhood sweetheart. She finds that she must leave her past behind her and start over beginning with a new town and a new business that will keep her mind off her past making cakes.  But can Mattie really forget all about the past including the man who still has a piece of her heart?

The Dawn of Christmas wraps up this collection with Sadie dealing with the loss of the man she once loved, whom she believes has lied to her. Not only is she finding it hard to come to terms with, but the whole town believes him as well. Sadie vows that she will never find love again until it quite literally falls into her lap. When Levi is thrown from his horse, she stays with him to make sure help arrives. They have more in common than they are willing to meet and when they both come up with a plan to prevent people for meddling in their love life, soon they will discover it may not be an act after all!

I received Christmas in Apple Ridge by Cindy Woodsmall compliments of WaterBrook Multnomah Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own. The Christmas season tends to always bring about healing, forgiveness and restoration and these three stories demonstrate that in their own ways. Each of them is dealing with the pain of heartbreak in some way and each vows to accept the hand of fate they have been given until faith in God reveals a much greater plan instead. Each of these stories will make you fall in love with the sense that during Christmas love can be found in the unlikeliest of places. I rate this collection a true 5 out of 5 stars.

For more information about Christmas in Apple Ridge, Cindy Woodsmall, or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:


You can find Cindy Woodsmall on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Christmas in Apple Ridge visit WaterBrook Multnomah's website.

  • Paperback: 576 pages
  • Publisher: WaterBrook Press; d edition (October 9, 2012)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0307730999
  • ISBN-13: 978-0307730992
  • Product Dimensions: 1.5 x 5.2 x 8 inches

Sunday, November 17, 2013

The First Phone Call From Heaven



The Week It Happened...

On the day the world received its first phone call from heaven, Tess Rafferty was unwrapping a box of tea bags.

Drrrnnn!

She ignored the ring and dug her nails into the plastic.

Drrrnnn!

She clawed her forefinger through the bumpy part on the side.

Drrrnnn!

Finally, she made a rip, then peeled off the wrapping and scrunched it in her palm. She knew the phone would go the answering machine if she didn't grab it before one more -

Drrrnnn -

"Hello?"

Too late.

"Ach, this thing," she mumbled. She heard the machine click on her kitchen counter as it played her outgoing message.

"Hi, it's Tess. Leave your name and number. I'll get back to you as soon as I can, thanks."

A small beep sounded. Tess heard static. And then.

"It's Mom...I need to tell you something."

Tess stopped breathing. The receiver fell from her fingers.

Her mother died four years ago.



In the latest novel from best selling author Mitch Albom, The First Phone Call From Heaven, he was more has created a longing in the heart for so many who wish for just one more phone call or a way to talk to those who have died. Only it isn't just Tess who is getting the phone calls, it is others in the small town of Coldwater, Michigan. Those once lost in their grief are finding comfort in the short simple phone calls conveying that everything is perfect and that those loved ones are calling from heaven and they want everyone to know about it.

Amy Penn was hoping to finally get the one big break all reporters long for and when she gets the assignment to investigate the phone calls from dead people coming to those residents only in the town of Coldwater, Amy wonders if she is being sent on a wild goose chase because if she fails, the station doesn't have to worry about what the ratings will do. No one knows who she is anyway. But will Amy find more than she truly ever bargained for? Is this God's way of leading her down a much different path then she ever dreamed possible?

You'll have to pick up this book to find out. If you've read Mitch Albom's other books, The Five People You Meet in Heaven or Tuesdays With Morrie, then you will definitely WANT this one. It's guaranteed to keep you wondering long after you finish the final page. In my opinion, this one hands down gets a 5 out of 5 stars. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own. This was a self purchase and being a huge book lover, I had to read this one. What a great Christmas gift!

For more information about The First Phone Call From Heaven, Mitch Albom or where to pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:


You can find Mitch Albom on Facebook to stay up to date with all his latest novels.


Saturday, November 16, 2013

Coming Home for Christmas ~ Giveaway and Review



As long as you have siblings, you are bound to come to a point where conflict ensues no matter how great the relationship. Such is the case for sisters Kate ( Carly McKillip) and Melanie (Britt McKillop) O'Brien who have remain close despite their differences at least while they were young. Kate has always lived in the shadow of her sister Melanie, who was outgoing in school, always had plenty of boys who wanted to date her and has always been beautiful and successful at anything that crosses her path. Quite different from Kate who was shy and didn't see herself as beautiful when hidden behind the glasses she needed to wear. During a family Christmas, the O'Brien family decided to incorporate a time capsule to be opened at a later date. It was during that time that the division in the O'Brien family began. When Kate buried her beloved sisters favorite marionette in the backyard as her contribution. In order to discover the time capsule, all members of the family must be present because they each possess a portion of the clue to find it again.

Only the family never dreamed that years later, their family would be torn apart. When Kate discovers that Melanie's soon-to-be husband is busy flirting at their wedding with a bridesmaid, Kate storms out telling her sister she can't be a part of watching her destruction of the perfect life. Without telling her the specifics, she abruptly leaves and places the parents at odds now that the girls are much older. Somehow the parental authority doesn't hold much weight. When faced with the dismiss of their daughters relationship, even Al (George Canyon) and Wendy( Amy Jo Johnson) begin to fall apart in their marriage beginning when the family home goes into foreclosure and they end up in another home. Now faced with no longer having anything in common, Wendy and Al decide a separation and divorce are their only hope for a future.

However when the girls learn that their parents are divorcing based on the problems stemming from Kate and Melanie's conflict, they decide to see if one last family Christmas in their old home will be just the right about of kindling to fan the flames of restoration for all of them. Only now the family home has been sold to Mike (Ben Hollingsworth) a Marine veteran and woodworker. Is is possible to pull off the ultimate Christmas miracle? You'll have to pick this one up to find out.



I received Coming Home for Christmas by director Vanessa Parise and Fly By Promotions for my honest review and did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review. This is such a heart warming family movie that I believe everyone can relate to. For me, even though my brother and I were close, we had our moments that undoubtedly tested our parents resolve. I love how they are willing to work together despite their differences and try hard to work through things without finding forgiveness with one another first. We see how well that works later in the movie. This is a movie about hope, faith and forgiveness despite how things may initially look on the outside and is a wonderful warm movie to begin the Christmas season with. I'd rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars and will look forward to incorporating this into our Christmas movie time each year. Finally a great movie with a message that is perfect for families.

For more information about Coming Home for Christmas please click on the links below:


The DVD includes a limited edition Norman Rockwell print!

Who is Norman Rockwell?  Rockwell was famous for his famous American culture illustrations and artwork. He was born in the late 1800’s and died in the mid 1900’s.

Director: Vanessa Parise
Cast: George Canyon (Christmas Miracle, Dawn Rider, Man of Steel), Aaron Pritchett, Britt McKillip (Dead Like Me), Carly McKillip (Hot Rod)
$14.99
Available at Walmart
Soundtrack also available featuring holiday songs performed by George Canyon

Now the best part....

Thanks to the folks at FlyBy Promotions, they are offering a giveaway copy to one lucky follower of my blog Reviews From The Heart. Here are your guidelines to enter:

1. Be a follower of my blog Reviews From The Heart

2. Be a resident of the US or have a US shipping address. Please No P.O. Boxes.

3. Leave a comment below telling me why you'd love to win a copy of the DVD along with your email address. You can use the words (at) and (dot) instead of the symbols. I will notify the winner once the giveaway ends on November 25th.

Friday, November 15, 2013

The Sparkle Box - Giveaway and Review



Ever wonder if there was a way to inspire your children and family to do more this Christmas for those less fortunate? I've got the perfect way to do just that! The Sparkle Box by Jill Hardie is a children's book that showcases a unique sparkle box that Sam's parents place on the mantle just at the start of the Christmas season. Sam is more than curious to know what it is, and his mom tells him that he can open it on Christmas morning but that they haven't finished filling it yet. As the days go by, Sam participates with his parents in doing things for others less fortunate, donating blankets and food, helping to finance a well for clean drinking water in Africa among other things.

Besides all the Christmas parties and food, Sam's looking forward to opening the presents most of all. What Sam finds inside the Sparkle Box sheds light on the true meaning of Christmas. This beautifully illustrated book by Christine Kornacki, is what my youngest daughter calls a "classic!" meaning simply that the pictures alone tell a story for those too young to read to enjoy! The best part is the Sparkle Box that is included at the end of the book for your family to incorporate this idea into your Christmas every year. I, for one, can't wait to assemble ours.



I received The Sparkle Box by Jill Hardie compliments of Ideals Books and Fly By Promotions for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed are strictly my own. This one rates a perfect 5 out of 5 stars and I can't wait to incorporate this into our Christmas traditions! This enables families to enjoy the Christmas season the way it was intended and to bring about the true meaning instead of simply getting presents. This book is perfect for children ages 3 and up.

Author Bio
Author Jill Hardie and her family began placing a gift for Jesus under their Christmas tree was a way of bringing more meaning to the holiday. The first time they open His gift, the commercialism of the season melted away and they felt a profound joy and peace. Jill hopes The Sparkle Box will spark a new Christmas tradition, bringing light into thousands of lives.

For more information about The Sparkle Box, Jill Hardie, or where to pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:


You can also find more great childrens' book at Ideals Books website.

You can also find Ideals Books on Facebook to enjoy more great children's books to add to your own personal home library.

You can also find The Sparkle Box on Facebook to get more ideas of how to keep the meaning of Christmas close to your family.

Now for the best part...

Thanks to the generosity of Ideals Books and Fly By Promotions, they are offering a giveaway copy of this book to one lucky follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart. Here are your guidelines to enter:


1. Be a follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart. 

2. "Like" Ideals Books Facebook page.

3. Must be a resident of the US or have a US shipping address. Please No P.O. Boxes. 

4. Leave a comment below telling me why you'd love to win a copy of this book along with your email address. You can use the words (at) and (dot) instead of the symbols.

I will notify the winner of this giveaway by email so make sure to include it with your comment below when it ends on November 22nd. 

Thursday, November 14, 2013

Four Blood Moons - Giveaway and Review



"There will be signs in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars...Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a could with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your hears, because your redemption draws near." ~ Luke 21:25, 27-28

There are many such references found in the scripture about the signs appearing in the sky. This is not to be confused with astrology which is the worship of stars, which is occultic and pagan. People who make choices based on the stars are seeking guidance for their lives from things created rather than from the creator. This is a violation of the law of Almighty God.  But using scripture references may in fact indicate something we might have been missing. Has God used signs in the sun, moon and stars as a gigantic billboard to announce big changes coming for Israel, Jerusalem and even the near future?

Pastor and author John Hagee takes an in depth look into just that simple question "Have you ever considered the sun, moon and stars in the study of prophecy?" In order to search for answers which he shares in the book Four Blood Moons, Pastor Hagee went directly to the Bible first for any possible connection that God used signs in the heavens to communicate plans when it came to the fulfillment of Bible prophecy and what he discovered offers us a chilling look into a big change coming in 2014-2015 that has never been predicted until this research. While the event is unclear the previous signs of the blood moons along with a total solar eclipse highlights significant and life changing events coupled with significant Jewish festivals and celebrations.

Consider this events from the past three Blood Moons in the last century:

Four "blood-red" total lunar eclipses will fall on Passover and Sukkot in 2014 and 2015, the same back-to-back occurrences at the time of 1492, 1949 and 1967. Those three dates were the most important dates in all of Israel's history!

There have been several Tetrads (four consecutive blood moons) since NASA first recorded their occurrences, but Tetrads linked to significant Jewish history have happened only three times in more than five hundred years. Just what is God trying to say to us and even more important are we listening and watching?



I received Four Blood Moons by John Hagee compliments of Worthy Publishing for my honest review and received no monetary compensation for a favorable one. Being a huge student of Bible prophecy, I was immediately drawn to other topics I have heard on the very same subject. The fourth series of Four Blood Moons is coming! They are extremely rare even by scientific standards. God is shouting to us, "Something big is about to happen!" What they are telling us is that God is getting ready to change the course of human history once again. He is preparing to display the next series of signs in the heavens. Are you ready? Are the members of your family ready? It's the greatest questions you will ever answer in this life! I highly recommend this book to any one who studies Bible Prophecy and rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

For more information about Four Blood Moons, John Hagee or where to pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:


You can find Pastor John Hagee on Facebook to stay up to date on all his latest books and Bible Prophecy events.

Now the best part...

Thanks to Worthy Publishers, they are providing me with 3 giveaway copies of this book to followers of my blog, Reviews From The Heart. Here are your guidelines to enter:

1. Be a follower of my blog Reviews From The Heart

2. Be a resident of the US or have a US shipping address. Please No P.O. Boxes.

3. Leave me a comment below telling me why you'd love to win a copy of this book along with your email address. You can use the words (at) and (dot) instead of the symbols.

I will notify the winners by email when the giveaway ends on November 30th.

  • Paperback: 272 pages
  • Publisher: Worthy Publishing (October 8, 2013)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1617952141
  • ISBN-13: 978-1617952142
  • Product Dimensions: 7.9 x 5.4 x 0.6 inches



Wednesday, November 13, 2013

A Talent for Trouble - Giveaway and Review



Just how much trouble could it be being the wife of a pastor? For Felicia Murdock, she will soon find out it is definitely more than she could ever dream of. She dreams of trying something new and she finds it is more work than she dreamed of trying to live up to her expectations of what a pastor's wife should look like. Sometimes we spend so much time trying to live up to everyone's expectations of what you should be doing, that in a sense you lose who you really are. That is just is what happens to Felicia in the latest novel from best selling author Jen Turano who is definitely on my MUST HAVE list of books. Anything that she has written, I have loved and she truly speaks to a place deep inside a women's heart in all of us. Perhaps that is why I find myself relating to her characters she creates in her novels. Yet in this case with all her best intentions, the pastor, Michael Fraiser, she believes she was destined to marry, instead marries someone else.

Now suddenly everything she believes is right is called into question and soon Felicia does a 180 from where she was at and finds the real person beneath it all. One that might even turn the head of Grayson Sumner, Lord Sefton, a respectable New York business, who is asked to lift Felicia's spirits. Soon however their personalities collide and it's the fire between them that has you rooting for a romance between the two. I mean, who doesn't want someone like Felicia who has just spent the last four years of her life transforming herself for a man, to suddenly fall into the arms of someone like Grayson!

Jen Turano definitely writes her female characters with a strength and sass that for the period in history is rewarding. Deep down inside, you know despite all that proper upbringing is a girl who is striving to just break out and be herself instead of what society dictates for her, just like Felicia. Fortunately for Felicia, her friends Agatha Watson and Eliza have just what she needs to get her out of feeling so down in the dumps. They have all kinds of outlandish plans to place Grayson and Felicia together and at times leaves Grayson being the one to rescue her when they turn ugly. All this just sets the stage for love to blossom and for the two to fall in love before the end of the novel. But it can't be wrapped up just that pretty. Soon Felicia discovers that Grayson has a secret past and once she learns the truth, will she really want him after all?

You'll have to pick up a copy of A Talent for Trouble to find out from Jen Turano. I received this novel compliments of Bethany House Publishers and TLC Book Tours for my honest review and did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review. The opinions expressed in this review are strictly my own. I LOVED this novel and can't wait for more from Jen Turano. She is one of those authors when you see a new novel debuting, you have to pick it up because you know it's going to be great just like this one was. I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars.

For more information about A Talent for Trouble, Jen Turano or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:


You can find Jen Turano on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on A Talent for Trouble from the TLC Book Tour, please click here. 

 Now for the best part...

Thanks to Bethany House Publishers and TLC Book Tours, they are giving away a copy of A Talent for Trouble to one lucky follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart. Here are the details to enter:

1. Be a follower of my blog Reviews From The Heart.

2. "Like" Jen Turano's Facebook page.

3. Be a resident of the US or have a US Shipping address. No P.O. Boxes please.

4. Leave a comment below telling me why you'd love to win a copy of A Talent for Trouble, along with your email address. You can use the words (at) and (dot) instead of the symbols. I will notify the winner of the giveaway by email once it ends on November 21st.

  • Paperback: 352 pages
  • Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (October 1, 2013)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0764211269
  • ISBN-13: 978-0764211263
  • Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 1.1 inches


Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Derailed



I love it when you find a true treasure in a great series of books. The kind that make you sad when you finish one because you have to wait for the next one and often times it could take awhile. Such is the case with The Windy City Neighborhood Series by authors Dave and Neta Jackson. After reading Grounded, their first novel in the series, the second book, Derailed has finally picked back up with our favorite characters we met in the first one. Perhaps by far, my favorite character is Estelle Bentley, because she has the faith that most would dream of having. The kind that offers up simple prayers as easily as having a one on one conversation with a close friend. But what we discover is that even those prayers are offered up, they are not always answered in the way we would like to. Even when it seems that the steps we take are guided by God, it soon leaves us second guessing if we didn't in fact step out on our own instead.

This novel is based on the Harry Bentley, Estelle's husband that was once blind but now can see, is asked to go undercover as a blind man in disguise working for the police on board the Amtrak trains. It takes us into the back story of Harry that we only glimpsed in passing in the first novel. Since Harry is new to the Christian faith, living with Estelle as a strong woman of faith makes him question his own actions at times. I love this honesty of how the life of faith isn't an easy one to walk and at times, we all find ourselves questioning whether we are doing what God would want or simply our own desires. He struggles being the head of the house and financial provider of learning to reverse the roles of putting his family first instead of his job. Not an easy one for men to live up to.

The Bentley's life hasn't been an easy one but is a true testament of what faith can do when it is applied correctly. Harry's son, Rodney has been in prison but now upon his release is looking for ways to turn over a new leaf. Since his son, DaShawn has been living with Estelle and Harry, Rodney is hoping to secure a decent job and find a way to start a new life for him and DaShawn. Perhaps my favorite part of this book, isn't really the individual stories but one of how they all interact with their neighbors. It shows us an example of what a faith based community should look like even if our neighbors are not believers. It shows us how to respond in love and kindness and role models what we all can hope to obtain by being better people to those around us.

I received Derailed by Dave and Neta Jackson compliments of Worthy Books and Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed are strictly my own. I can't wait for the next book in this series Penny Wise which you get a sneak peek at in the conclusion of this novel. There are also discussion questions included to make this a great novel for book clubs. I'd rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars. For more information about Derailed, Dave and Neta Jackson or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:


You can follow Dave and Neta Jackson on Facebook to stay up to date with all their latest novels.

To read more reviews on Derailed from the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance Book Tour, click here.

  • Series: Windy City Neighbors (Book 2)
  • Paperback: 320 pages
  • Publisher: Worthy Publishing (October 8, 2013)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1617950017
  • ISBN-13: 978-1617950018
  • Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 1 inches

Monday, November 11, 2013

Peril



Sometimes it seems when life brings you to the end of your proverbial rope, it seems like it takes everything we have left just to hang on. That is where we find Morgan Adams, a pediatric nurse who wonders if life is really worth spending more one day among the living. She finds herself at the bottom of the deepest pit. After losing her infant daughter to someone she trusted to care for her, Morgan is facing complications due to a kidney disease that leaves her facing dialysis from her pregnancy and now she faces the depression that almost consumes her.  Who wouldn't want to die after being handed those cards to play in life?

Her only hope comes from her husband, cardiac surgeon Dr. Tyler Adams who has been working on clinical trials with the U.S. Army that have their own unprecedented consequences. It seems like each person who receives a neural graft implant is beginning to have memories haunt them from their former donors. Yet it seems like Dr. Tyler Adams is having his own issues trying to be the strong anchor in the marriage that is literally hanging on by a thread.

This book is filled with almost every conceivable idea to haunt Tyler and Morgan both members of the medical community. This is truly an edge of your seat roller coaster ride that grips you from the beginning and holds you right over the cliff until the climatic ending. This will definitely be an adrenaline rush from the get go. It's filled with intrigue, suspense, and psychological twists when you least expect it. Along the way you see how a couple is tested by literally going through the fire and coming out with their faith completed tested in every way.

I received Peril by Jordyn Redwood compliments of Kregel Publications for my honest review and did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable one. This is the third book in the Bloodline Trilogy and while you can definitely read this as a stand alone, you will truly appreciated the storyline with a great understanding by picking up for the first books in the series Proof and Poison. This is such a great book because Jordyn writes from her characters point of views so well you can feel what it's like to be in their situation. Also with an understanding from working in the critical care and emergency nursing, Jordyn puts you literally right in the driver's seat with her characters. The loss of a child by a parent has to be the most heart rendering experience and Jordyn takes us through it from every dimension that a parent would. That's what makes this one truly unforgettable. This one truly rates a 5 out of 5 stars.

For more information about Peril, Jordyn Redwood, or where to pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:


You can also follow Jordyn Redwood on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Peril by Jordyn Redwood, please visit Kregel Publications website. 

  • Series: Bloodline Trilogy (Book 3)
  • Paperback: 272 pages
  • Publisher: Kregel Publications (September 1, 2013)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0825442133
  • ISBN-13: 978-0825442131
  • Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.4 x 0.7 inches

Friday, November 8, 2013

12 Days of Christmas Book Tour

The best part about fall besides the changing of the leaves on the trees and the cold crisp air is great Christmas Fiction. I was so honored to be given the opportunity to review four exceptional Christmas novels from best selling authors Colleen Coble, Beth Wiseman and Tricia Goyer as part of Litfuse Publicity's 12 Days of Christmas Book Tour.



Silent Night from Colleen Coble is a Rock Harbor Christmas Novella that takes place in the Lake Superior, Michigan. Once again the readers who remember Bree Matthews, a Search and Rescue handler now finds herself sharing their lighthouse home with her sister-in-law Lauri who has arrived home from college earlier than expected. Not only that but Lauri has brought home more than Bree and Kade bargained for. While they assume she has once again fallen short of their expectations for her attending college, Lauri has other plans that involve a case Bree had long thought was solved. Will there be a Christmas miracle after all?



Holy Night from Colleen Coble is an Aloha Reef Christmas Novella that takes place on the tropical island of Kauai. The wedding plans for Leia Kahale, a dolphin trainer and Bana Oana, her fiancè and oceanographer and sea salvager are about to be placed on hold. When Eva, Leia's sister with Down Syndrome is kidnapped while Leia is attempting an ocean rescue it will put their love to the ultimate test. Will they have what it takes to weather this unpredictable storm?



A Christmas Gift for Rose from Tricia Goyer takes us back to the Amish community located in Berlin, Ohio during 1945, where we see the struggle that is working in the life of Rose Yoder when Jonathan left the Amish to join in the war efforts as a medic. It goes against everything they both were brought up to believe. Now that he has returned home, she has assured herself that their relationship is over but why do these feelings for him continue to linger? What will happen when Rose discovers that she too was born English? What will happen to the feelings she still has for Jonathan or will the faith she was brought up on as an Amish woman be too hard to let go of?



Finally Plain Peace from author Beth Wiseman takes us back to Paradise Pennsylvania and we meet Anna Byler who is the granddaughter of the town's newest and harshest Bishop. Now faced with the prospects of learning the only reason she hasn't had a date isn't because she isn't pretty enough, but because everyone is afraid to date the Bishop's granddaughter. Seems most of the towns residents fear that the only way they will find relief from his strict rules is when he dies. That is all except Jacob Hostetler who has just moved here after losing his sister in a farming accident. The family is looking for a fresh start, but will Jacob be able to find a way to reach Anna's heart without dividing a family and a town against one another?

All four of these amazing novels are guaranteed to spark the warmth and love that each of them brings in unique ways through the characters that have to endure challenges beyond what any of them ever imagined. Forgiveness and hope are the keys to unlock the roadblock to love and faith that will found whenever anyone is courageous enough to take the leap of faith. Love is truly the greatest gift and that is just what you'll find in each of these heartwarming novels. I received these four novels compliments of Thomas Nelson Publishers and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. There is truly something for everyone in this Christmas Book Tour and I rate these a 5 out of 5 stars. They all have a predominate place in my Christmas library collection.

For more information about Holy Night, Silent Night, Plain Peace, A Christmas Gift for Rose or any of the amazing authors, please click on the links below:





To read the reviews from the 12 Days of Christmas Book Tour from Litfuse reviewer's please click here. 

You can find more information about Colleen Coble's novels by visiting her website. 

To learn more about Beth Wiseman's novels please visit her website. 

You can find more information about Tricia Goyer's novels by stopping by her website. 

Thomas Nelson & Zondervan Fiction are hosting the 12 Days of Christmas! They've teamed up with three of their authors for a Merry Facebook Party on November 12th {5pm Pacific / 8pm Eastern}. Colleen, Tricia, and Beth will host an evening of book chat, Christmas traditions, and of course plenty of presents!



But wait! There's more! Each day between now and November 12th a different book (10 copies of each book) will be given away on the Thomas Nelson & Zondervan Fiction Facebook Page. Ring in the holiday season and warm your heart with some great reads from Thomas Nelson and Zondervan!






xmasparty-500 





Click here to ENTER each day's giveaway here.
RSVP for the Christmas Party here!





Good luck and hope to see you on the evening of the 12th!