Unbound

Anyone who has followed my book reviews, knows that I love supernatural and spiritual warfare fiction novels. That is precisely why I jumped at the opportunity to review Unbound, the first novel in The Omega Trilogy by J.B. Simmons. It is based in the near future where technology has advanced quite considerably with people allowing themselves to be implanted with a device known as precepts, a computer that responds to your thoughts and enables only you to have access to it unless you agree to sync with another user. Everything in this future is activated by a wrist like implant that allows you to pay for items or even activate users to your internal precept. Security is the main goal in this new futuristic world and those lucky enough to pass the test, can become spies for the International Security Agency or ISA to combat terrorists threats all over the globe.

Elijah Goldsmith, a young Jewish man who is among the wealthy and finishing up college has applied but not without much reservations. Elijah, like his Bible predecessor, has been having what he can only call nightmares of a dragon rising from a giant hole in the ground in the city of Rome after a great earthquake. A charismatic man is also there who speaks to the dragon and then Elijah wakes up. Each night without fail he experiences the same nightmare even with the help of the sleep pills he's been taking to avoid having them. He is struggling with his own faith because none of these things make sense to a Jewish boy. Jesus was just a great guy and nothing more right? The book of Revelation is just something that should never been added to the Bible because all it contains is symbolic myths of a future that some man dreamed. Is not real right? Or is it?

I received Unbound by J.B. Simmons compliments of Believers Media for my honest review and did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of the book for my honest review. The opinions contained here are strictly my own. While the reviews on this novel compare it to a mix of The Da Vinci Code meets Hungry Games meets Left Behind, I would disagree. It is more along the lines of Left Behind with a bit more science fiction tossed in for good measure. It was an enjoyable read but the storyline took quite awhile to get to the meaning of the purpose of ISA and Elijah's involvement with it as well as the friends he interacts with along the way. While knowing this is the first novel in the series, I felt the author raced a bit to get to the action level, the purpose of Elijah's dreams, and kinda left us feeling left behind ourselves. I am hoping that the next novel might offer a bit more than what this one did and I was left feeling like I really wanted to know more before moving forward. I would rate this one a 4 out of 5 stars and for fans of books like Left Behind, you might want to check this one out as well.

For more information about Unbound, J.B. Simmons or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

Unbound by J.B. Simmons

You can find J.B. Simmons on Facebook to stay up to date with all his latest novels.

You can pick up a copy of Unbound through Amazon or your local book retailer.

Sons of God

There is a small section in the book of Genesis, chapter 6, that very few people understand as they read it. For some, it's simply words in the Bible that they fail to understand the meaning behind the words "sons of God." For an avid Bible student, it refers to the fallen remnant of angels that fell to Earth during Lucifer's rebellion in Heaven. In order to further pollute the world with unparalleled sin, the fallen angels or demons took on human form and married daughters of women. The offspring of these relationships resulted in a creation called Nephilim, half man, half demon. But those were all but destroyed when God called forth the great flood and saved only 8 people, Noah and his family. But it is possible that something of this magnitude could still happen even today?

In Mike Dellosso's book Sons of God, he takes what he refers to as a theological thriller, which unleashes a few themes that run the length of his fictional novel about that very thing happening in a small town of Forest Ridge Pennsylvania, and impacting the Grace Bible Church and it's pastor Scott Davies in ways they could have never seen coming. Fans of spiritual warfare and supernatural fiction will absolutely LOVE the direction Mike took this storyline. Scott is dealing with his own personal demons as he struggles to deal with the loss of his wife Jess, three years ago. He doesn't realize how hard it will be to explain the presence of evil he both sees and feels when a trio of young men suddenly take an interest in three of the young women attending his church.

With visions of romance and love in their eyes, all three unexpectedly announce to Pastor Scott their intention on marriage to these three young men. While Scott can't explain his distrust of what is happening, he tries to encourage them to attend premartial counseling to ensure a successful marriage, but that is not what is on the minds of Jason, Josh and Brian and they manage to weave quite a web of destruction both for Scott and the people of Forest Ridge. Only time will tell if Scott will have enough faith in God to go to war with an ancient enemy!

I was not provided with any monetary compensation for a favorable review for Sons of God and the opinions expressed here are my own. I've read quite a few of Mike's novels and some how missed this one. Being a huge lover of spiritual warfare and supernatural suspense fiction, this one fell right into my book lovers heart. There is such a great element of taking the creation of the Nephilim and bringing it into the possibility of recreation in modern times. We can only hope this will remain a fictional storyline and one that history hopefully will not repeat, but you never know what the future brings as we race closer to the end times. I easily give this one a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

For more information about Sons of God, Mike Dellosso or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

Sons of God by Mike Dellosso

You can find Mike Dellosso on Facebook to stay up to date on all his latest novels.

Betting on Hope

The man smelled like leather and sunshine and something spicy that drew her like a hummingbird to sugar water. She had to fight the urge to lean in and inhale. - Love it when you find great lines like these in a novel. (Betting on Hope, Debra Clopton). This had to be my favorite line in the latest novel from Debra Clopton. Here she introduces her readers to a new series, Four of Hearts Ranch Romance and Betting on Hope is the first novel to lead off this amazing series. If you love a great romance with a gentlemen-like cowboy, you will definitely want to make plans to rope this one up at your local retailer.

The series takes place in Wishing Springs, a small "Mayberry-like" community. The residents mean well but often find themselves in the middle of something that should have been better left alone. Tru Monahan is their local boy who has made a name for himself with his "Hollywood" good looks and manners that can smooth talk just about anyone he applies his warm words to. For Maggie Hope, she is the latest victim who falls hook, line and sinker, for Tru's cowboy like good looks and gentlemanly manners that quite literally keep sweeping her off her feet and into his arms. Maggie is known for being a bit clumsy and she wasn't at all prepared for this last minute interview with Tru Monahan for the local morning news show. Prepared with only a handful of questions, from her boss Amanda, Maggie steps in to interview Tru when Amanda falls ill. Just as the interview is about to spiral out of control, Tru does what he does best, sweet talking Maggie into staying calm and relaxing. That just puts more pressure on her to stick to being professional and stop falling for his dreamy eyes.

Soon the comments between the two being flying as Maggie tries to convey to Tru she wouldn't be caught dead on a horse. Tru responds that he can teach anyone to ride and soon an on the air bet challenges them both to a contest. Tru will have two month so teach Maggie not only to get over her fear of horses and riding but to also compete in a cutting contest. Maggie doesn't feel like this is something she can manage, but when Amanda threatens to pull her advice column, Gotta Have Hope, Maggie knows she will have to put all that advice she's been handing out to everyone on her column and learn to find her own sense of hope in this situation. But will she be able to maintain a professional distance or will she fall in love with the man who seems to be all wrong for her?

I received Betting on Hope by Debra Clopton 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 here are strictly my own unless otherwise notated. This novel central theme is all about sacrifice and how each person will be required to give up something for the sake of someone else. For some it will be a life changing one, while others will simply have to learn to let go of their pasts and see that they're not accountable for those mistakes that were made by others in their lives. This is a great series that I can't wait to get my hands on the next novel "Counting on A Cowboy." I easily give this one a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion and it even includes a Reader's Discussion Guide at the conclusion of this novel that is perfect for book clubs.

For more information about Betting on Hope, Debra Clopton, or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Betting on Hope by Debra Clopton

You can find Debra Clopton on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Betting on Hope, please visit Litfuse Publicity's Book Tour Page.

Saddle up for a new romance from novelist Debra Clopton, Betting on Hope! In Wishing Springs, Maggie finds what she has always been looking for: a community and a home. But when her past catches up to her, it threatens everything, even the tender hope that this town holds all of her heart’s desires.

Enter to win a Kindle Fire HD 6 to celebrate the release of Betting on Hope! 

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• A copy of Betting on Hope

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 8th. Winner will be announced March 9th on Debra's blog.

{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

Keys of Heaven

I've heard it said, that most people will grow if they are cultivated in a place where love, security and faith abounds. But what some might believe is that people can also grow among the rocks and places where soil is so thin, you would think they simply won't last long. Keys of Heaven by author Adina Senft, the second novel in the Healing Grace Series, explores that theme in a variety of situations involving both Amish and English living together in a small Amish Community.

Sarah Yoder is exploring her knowledge as an herbalist in finding cures where God's plants and weeds grow, turning them into useful lotions, remedies, teas and tinctures for whatever ails the person she is giving it to. Sarah is coming to terms with her brother and son leaving to join a cattle ranch while saying they were exploring their options. It has lead to a division not only in the community but in the family as well. She is praying that they will return soon and until that time will continue to resume training in helping her own people with natural cures.

Henry Byler has landed one of the biggest contracts he ever hoped for as a small time potter. They want to carry his line of bowls and pottery both in their New York stores and also online as well. The one thing Henry didn't consider was they were marketing this product as Amish made but Henry may have grown up Amish but he had made a decision to not follow in their footsteps nor does he want to join the church. That has put him at odds with some in his community and none more so than Sarah whose property adjoins Henry's.

When a wealthy family vacation at the Rose Arbor Inn, things are about to get interesting, from the oldest son, showing an interest in an Amish girl who works there as a maid, to the youngest one who has artistic passions he can't share with his family but finds hope in confiding in Henry. He dreams of one day being a great artist like Henry but hides all his passions from his parents. He believes Eric has the talent and only needs someone could encourage him. Is Henry the right person for the job?

I received Keys of Heaven of Adina Senft compliments of Faith Words, a division of Hachette Book Groups for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are strictly my own. This is such a beautiful blending of two very different cultures, the Amish and English as they try to find ways to settle any differences that come between them. It shows how we can often jump to conclusions that we might think are best for someone when in the end, we are simply overstepping God's plan for someone instead. It shows what the reward is for honest, hard work, and faith in small things and I can't wait to read the third novel coming out Balm of Gilead in the summer of 2015. A sneak peek of Balm of Gilead is included at the conclusion as well as a Reading Group Guide. I love how Sarah finds healing in what is growing around the land and I've loved learning about natural remedies through this series. It is well worth 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

For more information about Keys of Heaven, Adina Senft or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Keys of Heaven by Adina Senft

You can find Adina Senft on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Keys of Heaven, please visit Faith Words' website. 

Seek and Hide

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Seek and Hide David C. Cook (September 15, 2014) by Amanda Stevens

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

As a child, Amanda G. Stevens disparaged Mary Poppins and Stuart Little because they could never happen. Now, she writes speculative fiction. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in English and has taught literature and composition to home-school students. She lives in Michigan and loves books, film, music, and white cheddar popcorn. Amanda's first novel, Seek and Hide, will be available September 15, 2014 from David C Cook.



ABOUT THE BOOK

Six years ago, the government took control of the church. Only re-translated Bibles are legal, and a specialized agency called the Constabulary enforces this and other regulations. Marcus Brenner, a new Christian, will do anything to protect his church family from imprisonment--including risk his own freedom to gain the trust of a government agent. Aubrey Weston recanted her faith when the Constabulary threatened her baby. Now released, she just wants to provide for her son and avoid government notice. But she's targeted again, and this time, her baby is taken into custody. If only she'd never denied Him, maybe God would hear her pleas for help. When Aubrey and Marcus's lives collide, they are forced to confront the lies they believe about themselves. And God is about to grab hold of Marcus's life in a way he'd never expect, turning a loner into a leader.

If you'd like to read the first chapter of Seek and Hide, go HERE.

Tea Beyond

My family are huge fans of brewing tea. In fact we have all but given up coffee in lieu of the many different kinds of tea available on the market today. I was more than thrilled when I was contacted to try some premium blooming tea samples as well as a glass diffused tea pot from Tea Beyond. Here is some information about Tea Beyond:

Tea Beyond is very passionate about helping people stay healthier and happier by offering tea products with premium quality and enhancing tea drinking experiences with stylish tea-wares. They invest in product research and development from materials, taste, colors to aroma, feature and styles. All of their products are made from materials sourced directly from nature, no artificial materials added. We follow our sustainable business philosophy by reducing carbon footprints.

They are a big believers in natural products and support a philosophy of responsible business practices. All of their products are made of materials sourced directly from nature. No artificial ingredients are used. To foster a sustainable business model they recycle all packaging and limit the amount of printed materials.

Tea Beyond, the expanding international tea company, started its tea journey as a result of the fact that they could not find high quality tea available in the market. Their mission is to enhance the tea drinking experience, healthy and happy lifestyle by offering the most exclusive and best quality authentic international teas and tea-wares to our customers.

Premium Blooming Tea: 

Blooming tea takes its inspiration from a complaint that women and men could not share the same pot of tea at a tea house. In traditional China, women like herbal teas, such as rose buds, jasmine flowers, while men love loose tea leaves. The solution was to sew tea leaves with freshly dried flowers in an artful way so that men and women can enjoy the same pot of tea - Blooming tea was born! Premium Blooming Tea, is made of only the premium quality Silver needle green tea leaves (single buds) hand selected and sewed by tea masters, with freshly dried flowers to create the best presentation.

My Review: 

I was more than thrilled when I received my glass infused tea pot. It was simply beautiful and handles about 4 cups of hot tea. Don't let the glass fool you. It is hardy enough to handle boiling water straight from your stove top. You simply add the water into the base of the tea pot, then add your favorite blend of loose tea leaves or a Premium Blooming Tea to the diffuser. Simply lower that into the hot water and wait the appropriate amount of time for the brewing to take place.

The Premium Blooming Teas take a bit longer to steep, you simply wait until the Blooming Tea unfolds. You need to keep about 30% of the water in the tea pot each time if you plan of refilling it. When refilling water, lean the pot to 70 degree angle and them add water gently along the glass wall. Avoid any directly pouring boiling water on flowers.

I received quite the sample of Premium Blooming Teas to try along with some loose tea leaves from Black Tea with Caramel to a Green Jasmine Tea. I have to be  honest and say I love the Black Tea with Caramel the best and my daughters both love the Premium Blooming Teas. There are Jasmine, Carnation, Marigold, Peony and a melody of Jasmine, Marigold and globe Amarath to try. All are low caffeine content and simply taste great whether you love them hot or cold. For me, this will remain a long time favorite for my household and why I would strongly give this company a 5 out of 5 stars. Not only do they make an incredible product but I love that they remain environmental conscience as well! I received the Tea Beyond Butterfly Tea pot and Tea Beyond Tea Combo compliments of Tea Beyond for my honest review of their product. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review. If you love tea as much as I do, I strongly suggest you take a look at this company.

For more information about Tea Beyond, Tea Beyond Butterfly Tea Pot and Tea Beyond Tea Combo, please click on the links below:

Tea Beyond - The World Beyond Tea

You can order the Tea Beyond Butterfly Tea Pot by clicking here. 

To Order the Tea Beyond Tea Combo, a sample of their Premium Blooming and Loose Tea Leaves, please click here. 

10 Steps to Your F.I.T: Faith Inspired Transformation

"Whether you think you can or you think you can't - you're right. ~ Henry Ford

"You can't turn on the TV or open a magazine without seeing a dieting product. We are so inundated with infomercials and ads, but if these products work, where are the lasting results? If 20 billion dollars are being spent on diet aids, and 108 million of us use them, how is it that nearly 70 percent of adults are overweight or obese? The answer is that we're trained in quick fixes that don't last." (pg 4).

So how can we lose weight? How can we find balance in the food choices we have in front of us? Is there a way to change our focus on not losing weight but instead getting healthy? Kim Dolan Leto, who has graced the covers of magazines like Oxygen, Fitness and Fitness Life believes that it is a belief in Christ that has kept her motivated to reach her fitness goals in a balanced and healthy way. In her book 10 Steps to Your F.I.T: Faith Inspired Transformation, she explains why your typical diets don't last and why as women we have a tendency to give up before we see any real results. She also explains that not all calories are created equal thus the reason why so many people can't lose weight or even those that do, put it all back on again and more within 2 years.

What you won't find her are any quick fixes but a balance approach to seeking God's power instead of our own will power for getting healthy. Weight loss will just be an added benefit to doing just that. She explains how fad diets promise quick results, but they often leave out the education, exercise, and how-to's to maintaining those results once the program is over. What's worse is that they make you rely on their product and believe it or not, any effects aren't long lasting.

She instructs readers on changing their negative thoughts, realizing where our previous efforts have failed us, and incorporates what she calls F.I.T. practices, between spiritual, mental and physical fitness into a "power hour." You won't find a book laced with work out routines, meal plans or recipes but this is an insightful, scripture based book to enable you to begin your journey to a healthy you. I am super excited to give this one a go, since I too, have been a diet junky, looking for a better way to lose weight, keep it off and stay healthy despite all the busy pressures of being a mom and wife.

I received 10 Steps to Your F.I.T: Faith Inspired Transformation by Kim Dolan Leto compliments of Fedd Books and Shelton Interactive for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own unless otherwise notated. There are some great tools to help inspire and keep you on the right path in each section, including Get F.I.T. at the conclusion of each chapter which include reflection questions and strategies that can help you incorporate that aspect into your own getting healthy plan. There are also some great online resources that are available to help you on your journey to health and fitness success that are included in this book. I can't wait to incorporate these tips in my own healthy lifestyle change and feels this one deserves a full 4.5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

For more information about 10 Steps to Your F.I.T: Faith Inspired Transformation, Kim Dolan Leto or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

10 Steps to Your F.I.T: Faith Inspired Transformation by Kim Dolan Leto

You can find Kim Dolan Leto on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest health and fitness tips.

To read more reviews on 10 Steps to Your F.I.T: Faith Inspired Transformation, please visit Shelton Interactive's website.

A Treasury of Miracles for Women

"Women are a busy lot, rushing through the days trying to manage a dozen different roles. We are mothers, daughters, friends, neighbors, counselors, house cleaners, chauffeurs, cooks, caretakers, and dream-makers. Often we are responsible for the well-being of everyone in our own little worlds. But in the rush of life we rarely take time to revel in the miracles around us - the living examples and awe-inspiring proof of God's love.

• The baby that should have died but lived. 

• The child saved from a pond without a trace of the golden-haired rescuer. 

• The paralyzed young woman who walked down the aisle a year later and married her high school sweetheart. 

• The angelic reminder that even in death, God is there. 

Miracles abound if we only take the time to look.

It's been said that we women were created with a relationship manual built into our hearts. But we are nothing more than harried, hassled, dried-out machines if we don't take the time to allow our souls to sing again. Time to sit quietly in the presence of God's miracles and be reminded that he is still working among us. " (pg 7-8)

In Karen Kingsbury's latest book, A Treasury of Miracles for Women: True Stories of God's Presence, it is a heart-warming inspirational look at just how powerful prayer can be and how active God and His angels are in our everyday lives. 15 soul stirring stories from real families who have experienced God's intervention in their seemingly simple and small lives in a powerful way. This will encourage and lift your spirits as you begin to feel God's presence in every single one of this amazing stories.

I received A Treasury of Miracles for Women by Karen Kingsbury compliments of Faith Words, a division of Hachette Book Groups for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are strictly my own unless otherwise notated. This is such an encourage book to give as a gift to anyone struggling with their faith or going through a difficult time, to see how God can answer a simple prayer in life changing ways. I easily give this one a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

For more information about A Treasury of Miracles for Women, Karen Kingsbury or where you can pick up a copy of this wonderful book, please click on the links below:

A Treasury of Miracles for Women by Karen Kingsbury

You can find Karen Kingsbury on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest books.

To read more reviews on A Treasury of Miracles for Women, please visit Faith Word's website. 

Finding Jake

"Shots have been fired at the high school. Calmly report to St. Michael's across Route 5."

These are the word no parent ever wants to hear. Yet those are precisely the words that appeared as a text message on Simon Connolly's phone. Part of your mind wants to believe it's a joke, but deep down inside you know it's not. These are the things that happen in bad neighborhoods, not in the city the Connolly's live in. In fact, it is because of the excellent schools in the area that forced the Connolly's to make a move from the city to one outside the city. Where neighbors look out for one another, but today is not that day.

As Simon Connolly races to St. Michael's he is worried for his two children that attend that school, Jake and Laney. All kinds of thoughts run through your mind when you get a message like that and all you want to do is anything to protect your kids. They know that 13 students are dead and that the shooter apparently killed himself. One by one, parents wonder if they will be called to get their child and go home relieved, or will they face a parents greatest fear, that your child is one of the victims. All Simon knows is that he will do everything he can to find his children to make sure they are safe.

In the compelling novel Finding Jake by Bryan Reardon, it takes the readers into the real fear every parent has, that one day, their child might find themselves in this situation. While I don't want to give away the main part of this novel, it does give readers an inside look I had never considered before. How parents who are captivated by their own grief can target the parents of the shooter as if there was anything that could have been done to prevent this. You see how they are very much the victim and yet also on trial from the media, family and friends, and complete strangers who will threaten them in ways that are often times criminal. As a parent, I could relate to seeing things from both sides of the fence but more significantly it made me realize how we as a society can ostracize people who truly don't deserve it in trying to understand the why's of what happened.

I received Finding Jake by Bryan Reardon 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 are strictly my own. While I can understand this novel might not be something everyone wants to read, I applaud the author for taking us behind the scenes to what is often lacking in the news, to see things from different perspectives and make you understand in a safe manner, that things like this happen. It is what we will do when it does, that makes us who we are! For me, this one rates a 5 out of 5 stars simply because it took me someplace I never expected to be, and that is seeing things from different perspectives and hoping it changed me for the better in regards to stereotyping people based on their looks or actions. We seriously don't know who people are until we are willing to look much deeper. 

For more information on Finding Jake, Bryan Reardon, or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Finding Jake by Bryan Reardon

You can also find Bryan Reardon on Facebook to stay up to date with all his latest novels.

To read more reviews on Finding Jake, please visit William Morrow's website.

Sabotaged

I've had the delight to read almost all of the novels in Dani Pettrey's Alaskan Courage Series and am only missing out on one. In her fifth book, Sabotaged, readers will get the chance to see if sparks will fly between Reef McKenna and Kirra Jacobs. They have been interested in one another since childhood but never actually got together but more like on one another's last nerve. It seemed like a romance that should have been destined from the beginning but things just keep them apart.

When Kirra's Uncle Frank, is threatened with blackmail, he abruptly leaves the Iditarod race when his only daughter Meg has been abducted. Knowing the Frank is the only way to make their plan a reality, he warns his niece Kirra how dire the situation can be if any police are called in to help. Since Kirra is stationed at the Iditarod as part of the Search and Rescue team, she is alarmed when Frank goes missing late at night when he should have checked in. Knowing she can't leave things to chance she hopes she can find him before the severe storm moves in. She just wasn't expecting Reef to prevent her from going alone. Knowing that great minds prevail in highly stressful situations, it will be a race against time to find the people responsible for Meg's kidnapping, and to figure out what role Frank is playing in all of this before it's too late.

I received Sabotaged by Dani Pettrey compliments of Bethany House Publishers and Pulse Point Design for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are strictly my own. This has been such an adrenaline laced series from the first novel Submerged. It is heart-racing, edge of your seat suspense that wraps around a faith filled McKenna family in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness where any situation can change at a moments notice. Not only do you have the weather posing an issue but just the vast territory that remains unexplored gives Dani quite the canvas to write this series as her gorgeous backdrop. Reminds me of the movie Cliff Hanger with Sylvester Stallone but Dani's guys are much better looking! For those that love extreme suspense, you'll definitely want to pick this one up and I'd rate it a full 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

For more information about Sabotaged, Dani Pettrey or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Sabotaged by Dani Pettrey

You can find Dani Pettrey on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

You can also enter Dani Pettrey's Heart of Adventures Sweepstakes and have a chance at one of several great prizes. Details are below:

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

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

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

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

Timeframe & Notifications: 

This giveaway starts February 2, 2015 and ends February 22, 2015 @ 11:59 pm (PST).

Entry is open to US residents only, age 18 and over. Winners will be selected Monday, February 23, 2015, and announced at DaniPettrey.com.

For more information on how to enter the sweepstakes, go to http://www.danipettrey.com/heart-of-adventure-sweepstakes/ and complete the entry box, anytime between February 2 – 22, 2015.

Wisdom Tree

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Wisdom Tree White Rose Publishing (September 19, 2012) by Mary Manners

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word from the Author:
I live in the beautiful foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee with my husband, Tim, and our teen-aged daughter, Danni. Also with us are Lucky and Gus - the two cherished cats we rescued from local animal shelters.

I'm a member of the Romance Writers of America and Smoky Mountain Romance Writers. During the school year, I teach middle-schoolers reading and Algebra. When I have free time, I love to garden, take long walks with my husband, and read romance novels in a hammock beneath century-old shade trees.

I write romance novels for White Rose Publishing. If you'd like to visit, I have an author page there, as well. That's where you'll find everything there is to know about my books.

I also have author pages at the following locations. Do come by and spend some time with me there!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Sometimes the last thing we think we need is exactly what God has planned
After the death of his parents, Jake Samuels has enough on his plate—including a fledgling church to lead and a mischievous younger brother to raise. The last thing he needs is a rambunctious woman to contend with.

Carin O'Malley is dealing with the death of her brother and a new job as an English teacher at East Ridge Middle School where Corey Samuels reigns as King of Chaos. The last thing she needs is to fall in love...especially with a handsome and complicated preacher like Corey’s brother Jake.

But when Corey's antics toss Carin and Jake together, the two must draw from God’s wisdom to find refuge in His perfect plan.

------------------------------------------------ Discover your own wisdom tree with the included one-month devotional.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Wisdom Tree, go HERE.

A Memory of Violets

A parallel set of stories between two sets of sisters are the basis for Hazel Gaynor's latest historical fiction, A Memory of Violets. One taking place in 1876 between Florrie Flynn and her sister Rosie who find a way of making a living on the bleak streets of London selling bunch of flowers that they could obtain to put food in their stomachs. Spending nights in the shelter of staircases and wherever they could find a place to sleep while waiting til the next morning to sell their bunches of flowers for a penny.

The other story takes place in 1912 between Matilda "Tilly" Harper and her sister Esther. Tilly seems to understand that her mother loves her younger sister Esther more than her and makes her watch over her when they are away from home. Their father has left to fight in the beginning of the war and now it is up to the girls to do what they can to help their mother. When an unexpected accident happens, Tilly feels she is to blame and takes a job helping as a housemother for Mr. Shaw's Training Homes for Watercress and Flower Girls. It provides her safe distance between her family and the guilt that seems to consume her during her quiet moments.

Tilly finds a wooden box in her closet with a notebook written by Florrie to her sister Rosie. She spends her down time reading about the tragic story of the search to find Rosie when she got separated from his sister one afternoon and it would be a search that Florrie would never resolve during her lifetime. Tilly finds a desire to help continue the search with the few clues located in the notebook as well as a wooden peg, a rag doll and a button in the box. She feels that if she can help find Rosie it might help her find her own sense of healing within her own heart towards her sister Esther.

What she finds during the search is how their lives will intersect and all four of their lives will be forever changed by a series of circumstances to bring about healing, restoration and forgiveness. A Memory of Violets by Hazel Gaynor is based on the true story of John Groom who was her basis for the creation of the character Albert Shaw who saw the plight of these children, London's Flower Sellers,  who were growing up orphans with no one to care for them and a fear of workhouses. This is such an incredible novel and one that historical fiction fans will definitely want to pick up and enjoy for themselves.

I received A Memory of Violets by Hazel Gaynor 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 contained here are my own. I absolutely have LOVED every single one of Hazel Gaynor's novels. She breathes life into the untold stories that are littered in our history that until they appear in book, they are often forgotten or neglected. I applaud her attention to share this one and the details make you feel like you've gone back in time to the pitiful, bleak and depressing state of the streets of London during that time. At the conclusion of this novel are some great bonuses, The Memoirs of Albert Shaw, The Languages of Flowers, The Story Behind the Story and a Reader's Discussion Guide. For me this is one that will become a beloved part of my personal library and worthy of all 5 out of 5 stars.

For more information about A Memory of Violets, Hazel Gaynor or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

A Memory of Violets by Hazel Gaynor

You can find Hazel Gaynor on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on A Memory of Violets, please visit Harper Collins Publisher's website. 

The Promise of Palm Grove

I love the simplicity of reading a great Amish romance and Shelley Shepard is quite the expert at writing not only exceptional Amish Romance's but making us feel like we are part of the story, not just reading a book. In her latest series, Amish Brides of Pinecraft, her first novel, The Promise of Palm Grove takes us back to Pinecraft, Florida. Here we find a small Amish/Mennonite community that spends time hosting guests from other parts of the country looking for an escape from the winter in sunny Pinecraft. Here everyone pretty much knows one another like in any Amish community.

When Leona Weaver arrives in Pinecraft along with her two best friends Mattie and Sara, she is hoping to put some distance between her and her future husband Edmond. She is hoping to figure out if she can be married to such a controlling man who believes that her opinions and her desires are not something to be considered when marrying him. She's been struggling with her emotions that tell her that Edmond is not the man for her and that this is not a normal part of Amish marriages. But to Edmond, there is no argument. He knows what he wants and tries to tell Leona she will conform to his way of thinking once they are married. Leona isn't so sure.

So when she meets Zack Kauffman, a man completely the opposite of Edmond, she soon realizes that she can't go through with her marriage to Edmond. She just has to manage to convince Mattie, not only her friend but Edmond's sister that she is about to call Edmond and let him know she has changed her mind. One thing for sure is that Zack is exactly the kind of man she had hoped might be out there for her, now the only problem is that she lives in Ohio and he lives in Pinecraft. How will they make a long distance relationship work? Find out in The Promise of Palm Grove.

I received The Promise of Palm Grove by Shelley Shepard Gray compliments of Avon Inspired, a division of Harper Collins Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are my own. I was thrilled to be invited to review this new series, because not only do I love Shelley's writing style but I also adored her attention to detail and she breathes life into these characters that you believe they honestly exist somewhere. I can't wait for the opportunity to visit Pinecraft one day and eat at Yoder's Restaurant even if the line is over 30 minutes long. Shelley includes photos and a list of the top 5 things to see while in Pinecraft in this novel. I'd rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion and love that it includes a Reader's Discussion Guide as well as a recipe for Orange Pie at the conclusion of this novel.

For more information about The Promise of Palm Grove, Shelley Shepard Gray or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

The Promise of Palm Grove by Shelley Shepard Gray

You can find Shelley Shepard Gray on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on The Promise of Palm Grove please visit Avon Inspired's website. 

Remember Me

For some of us, we wish we could forget the past, especially when we've made some mistakes we regret. I guess the same thing could be said for Ben Russo, but he wasn't planning on getting that prayer answered in the most unusual way. Just a week before he was suppose to get married, Ben left that fateful Dear John note for Tess. Said he needed time to figure somethings out and was heading to Europe to go backpacking. He took the pieces of her broken heart with her.

Now the last person Tess ever expected to see would be an unidentified John Doe who was involved in a car accident in the ER where she worked. She walked in on the man who had left her broken hearted but didn't remember who he was. How could life hand her something so unexpected and cruel? Is she just suppose to forget this man was the only love of her life, the man she intended to wait for until she was married? Was she simply supposed to hold all her emotions in check while she checked his vitals?

After all this time, he still looked amazing and that was what made it hard to deal with this situation. Knowing she should be honest and tell him who he is and how she knows it, the doctors disagree. They feel like he will gain his memory back in time and that telling him might just set him back further. In fact, if she tells him everything she knows, he may not still remember and then where will he go. It's best to just give it time and thankfully one of her doctor friends has offered to let Ben stay with him until he knows who he is and where he lives. More importantly what was he doing just miles from where Tess lives when he had the accident? Will Tess' heart be able to wait for the love she believes has come back to her for a second chance?

I received Remember Me by Lara Van Hulzen compliments of CreateSpace Publishers for my honest review and aside from receiving a complimentary copy of the book, I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review. I absolutely LOVED this one and reminds me of a similar story I wrote in my late 20's. Something about the beach, a lost love and danger places these as favorites in my book lover's heart. This one truly hit it out of the park on the romance and suspense scale. What woman wouldn't want the man of her dreams to realize what a fool he had been and come rushing back into her life for a second chance? This is the first novel in The Men of Honor Series and I, for one, can't wait for the sequel. Pins and needles time!!! This one is a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion and only hope I might be lucky enough to garner a review copy of the sequel!!!

For more information about Remember Me, Lara Van Hulzen or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Remember Me by Lara Van Hulzen

You can find Lara Van Hulzen on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest books.

You can pick up a copy of Remember Me in paperback or eBook format at Amazon.com. 

Devotion

In a marriage there are a lot of issues for a husband and wife to deal with. Having their faith in God is a great foundation to have. However with all the challenges the world has to offer, even our faith can be tested in ways we would never consider crossing the line for. We often think we are strong enough in our faith to handle anything the world would throw out there, confident we would pass the test with flying colors. But that is our weakness, thinking we can remain unscathed from temptations even in the strongest marriages who seem to be completely ground in their faith in God.

In the novel Devotion by Marianne Evans, a marriage between Kellen and Juliet Rossiter will be tested by fire. It was Kellen's job that drew Juliet to fall in love with him. As a music agent for Associated Talent, Kellen's goal in life is to get to the point where he can manage Christian artists. So it isn't unusual to find him in the latest hot spots and clubs trying to find the next top performer for his company. At times Juliet has accompanied him, but knowing after nine years how these meetings generally go, Juliet has developed her own interests working with the homeless at the local shelter as part of an outreach for her church.

Juliet and Kellen know that after nine years they wouldn't always spend their free time with one another, after all the time trying to have a family of their own, nothing seems to have for them. Tests after tests show that both of them are able to conceive but for whatever reasons it just hasn't happened despite all the questions from family at every event wondering just when they planned on having a child. No one really knew the struggle that they both faced when posed with that question. But when Kellen is asked to seek out the next big thing at a club called Iridescence, he wasn't planned for the detour his life would take when Juliet opted out this time. But it only takes an act of infidelity to result in a lifetime of forgiveness and their marriage will be tested in the worst way possible.

I received Devotion from Marianne Evans compliments of Pelican Book Group and Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. Aside from a complementary copy of the novel to review I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review. The opinions contained here are my own. This is such a brilliant novel because of its transparency in dealing with the subject of infidelity in a marriage. It rates right up there with Karen Kingsbury, as it takes an indepth approach at the foundation that the Rossiters build their marriage on and just how subtle temptation can be. It doesn't start with something big, but those little nuances that happen when we think we can handle ourselves instead of listening to God. You can feel for each of them in this situation from the anger that Juliet feels to the heart-wrenching pain Kellen has to contend with when Juliet insists on moving out.

For me the biggest take away is one I shared with my husband. Is that temptations are subtle and there are so many opportunities for us to leave the situation but we don't. In marriage there will come times when we are all tested and undoubtedly mistakes will be made that will inflict pain into each other's heart. The point is not trying to get back what you had before, it's building on what you have moving forward. What an "A-ha!" moment that was. Too often we try to fix things wondering why we can't go back to before those hurts, and it results in frustration on both spouses wondering where they are going wrong. They aren't. As long as they are moving forward building on what they have, that is the success in moving past those situations and hopefully have the outcome that Kellen and Juliet Rossiter have. The best part is seeing it from a third parties eyes and realizing how quickly something like that happens when we least expect it. No one is immune. This one is not only a must read but a must keep on your bookshelf and thus the reason why I give this one a 5 out of 5 stars!

For more information about Devotion, Marianne Evans, or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Devotion by Marianne Evans

You can also find Marianne Evans on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest books.

To read more reviews on Devotion, please visit Christian Fiction Blog Alliance's book tour page. 

To strengthen your marriage, check out some tips and resources at imdevoted.com

The Accidental Empress

I absolutely love a great historical fiction that is based so much on historical fact. Obviously you have to take some liberties as an author to fill in the proverbial blanks when viewing something that happened in the late 1800's in Europe. While the historical facts give us a broad overview, we often wonder what happened behind the scenes to bring to life the events that are now part of our unshaken historical past. Allison Pataki is such an author with the skill to breath life into the story of Empress Elizabeth or affectionately known as "Sisi" by those who love her including her beloved people in her latest novel The Accidental Empress. She was much like Princess Diana later would be referred to as the people's princess.

This is the story of her life as a young girl at 15, who found her love of the outdoors would be the jewel in her crown to winning the heart of Franz Joseph, the Emperor of Europe. What I love most about the way this novel begins is the brief introduction into the story that outlines the countries that the Emperor had control over. It's not like Downton Abbey where Lords ruled the land, Emperors ruled and controlled the countries that bordered one another in hopes of keeping them together to prevent against the threat of wars from others.

Here we see the evolution of Elizabeth as she goes from being a young girl with a title, being sent away with her sister Helene who their parents believe will be a suitable match as the future Empress. But it isn't Helene that Franz falls for, but the younger sister Elizabeth. Her undisciplined manners from growing up in the outdoors in Bavaria appeals to him. His mother Sophie is the epitome of the wicked Aunt and soon to be Mother In Law, who will ensure that Elizabeth maintains the proper decorum suitable for an Empress along with all the duties and responsibilities.

We see how the events of being thrust into this lifestyle weighs on Sisi as the novel moves forward in time, from trying to procure an heir for Franz to learning to deal with his control mother, Sophie. She has no real alliances and the romantic notions she has built her marriage on soon come crumbling down when reality of war threatens on the countries horizon. Her husband is pulled away to help manage politics but avoids sharing that part of his life with her, instead letting his mother and officials lead him to do what they believe is best. So Sisi is forced to find interests wherever she can even though in her heart, she just wants the love and the man she fell in love with to come back. It is an unforgettable journey that will leave you with a different impression of what life among the royals was really like.

I received The Accidental Empress by Allison Pataki compliments of Howard Books, a division of Simon and Schuster for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are my own. I absolutely loved a birds eye view into Elizabeth's life, from humble, innocent, romantic backgrounds, to one of being exposed to the difficulties of marriage during turbulent times that would force one to grow up rather quickly. I loved the insight the author shares at the conclusion about how much of this is historical fact, and the fictional fill in elements she added. This for me was a beautiful added bonus and one I enjoy especially when reading historical fictional novels. This one is definitely remaining a keeper on my bookshelf and one I know I will enjoy rereading again and again which is why I feel it deserves a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion. My only hope is Allison will write a sequel to this one in the very near future!

For more information about The Accidental Empress, Allison Pataki or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below"

The Accidental Empress by Allison Pataki

You can find Allison Pataki on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest books.

To read more reviews on The Accidental Empress, please visit Howard Books' website.

Huckleberry Springs - Book Spotlight

For some of my readers who don't know what a book spotlight is, it is simply a way to introduce you to a great novel I think you would enjoy. Today's book spotlight is on Huckleberry Springs, an Amish novel from author Jennifer Beckstrand. Before we launch into the book premise, I thought you'd love to know a bit more about Jennifer, the amazing and talented author of this new novel to debut on bookshelves.

Jennifer Beckstrand's Bio:

I grew up with a steady diet of William Shakespeare and Jane Austen. After all that literary immersion, I naturally decided to get a degree in mathematics, which came in handy when one of my six children needed help with homework. After my fourth daughter was born, I started writing. By juggling diaper changes, soccer games, music lessons, laundry, and two more children, I finished my first manuscript—a Western—in just under fourteen years.

I have always been fascinated by the Amish way of life and now write Inspirational Amish Romance. I am drawn to the strong faith of the Plain people and admire the importance they put on enduring family ties. I have visited and studied Amish communities in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin where I met with a bishop and a minister as well as several Amish mamms, dats, and children. It has always impressed me at what salt-of-the-earth people they are. My interactions with these kind people have been some of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I have a dear Amish friend with whom I correspond in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. She helps me keep my facts straight and gives me inspiration for my stories.

My goal is to write uplifting, inspiring stories with happy endings and hopeful messages. If my books make readers want to give themselves a big hug or jump up and down for joy, I’ve done my job. I am a member of Romance Writers of America and American Christian Fiction Writers and am represented by Mary Sue Seymour of The Seymour Agency.

There are three Amish romances in the Forever After in Apple Lake Series (Summerside/Guideposts). Kate’s Song, Rebecca’s Rose, and Miriam’s Quilt are all now available.

I have six Amish Roamish buggymances in the works with Kensington Books. The first and second books, Huckleberry Hill and Huckleberry Summer, are now available in stores and online. The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill is set in northern Wisconsin Amish country.

The series, The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill, is about an elderly Amish couple who try to find suitable mates for their grandchildren. What could be more fun than throwing two young people together to see if sparks ignite? No one would ever suspect two octogenarian Amish folks of mischief.

I have four daughters, two sons, three sons-in-law, and two adorable grandsons. I live in the foothills of the Wasatch Front with my husband and one son still left at home.

Sounds to me like Jennifer knows a thing or two about writing an Amish romance novel!

Now onward to our book spotlight of Huckleberry Springs:

 Nothing gives Anna and Felty Helmuth greater satisfaction than seeing their grandchildren happily married–except for planning their next matchmaking venture. And as springtime comes to Huckleberry Hill, Wisconsin, the air is filled with promise. . .

Ever since the Helmuths’ grandson, Ben, abruptly broke his engagement and moved to Florida, Emma Nelson has kept busy tending her vegetable garden and raising award-winning pumpkins. She can put her heartache aside to help Ben’s Mammi with her own pumpkin patch. At least until Ben shows up to lend support to his ailing Dawdi. . .

Gardening side by side with pretty, nurturing Emma is a sweet kind of torture for Ben. She could have her pick of suitors who can offer what he can’t, and he cares too much to burden her with his secret. Leaving once more is the only option. Yet Emma’s courage is daring him to accept the grace that flourishes here, and the love that has been calling him back to Huckleberry Hill.

So if you're looking for more information about Huckleberry Springs, Jennifer Beckstrand or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Huckleberry Springs by Jennifer Beckstrand

You can find Jennifer Beckstrand on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews from Huckleberry Springs, please visit Pump Up Your Book's Tour Page.

Remember the Lilies

There is something so amazing when an author can utilize some historical facts to create not only an unbelievable novel but capture your heart in the process. I guess that is why I love historical fiction, because based on history, there are so many stories out there that can be captured in a book, stories that impact you in profound ways that you are never the same after reading them. Remember the Lilies by Liz Tolsma is one such novel.

Based on events that happened in the Philippines just as WWII was underway and days after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, those in the Pacific Theater wondered how the war would impact them. When the Japanese took over the small islands, they created the Santo Tomas Internment camp and thus is where our novel takes place as American citizens find themselves prisoners of war with no little hope of making it out alive.

Rand Sterling was a night club owner with two successful clubs providing him with the lifestyle he loved and plenty of money to expand if only the war hadn't happened. Now he finds himself locked behind fences and planning an escape from the prison camp. He knows if he is unsuccessful, the torture and subsequent punishment at the hands of the Japanese will cost him his life in a slow and painful death. Rand knew he had to do something, because people around him including little children were slowly dying by the conditions they were all faced to live in.

Irene Reynolds, a previous missionary along with her aunt Anita, has a job censoring the communication being allowed to the prisoners in the camp. When she removes a couple of sentences from a letter to Rand Sterling, she doesn't realize the implications of how important they were. When she realizes he might be planning an escape, she suddenly understands that his source on the other side is telling him that tonight is not the time for the escape and to wait. She knows she must find Rand before he follows through on his plans and gets caught. If she doesn't reach him in time, it might just cost him his life and she will be forever responsible.

I received Remember the Lilies by Liz Tolsma 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 found in this review are strictly my own. Liz Tolsma takes readers into the heart of what it was like for many Americans who found themselves as prisoners of war by the Japanese just at the beginning of WWII. I never considered the implications of how difficult it was to survive in camps where they were refusing to provide all the contents of the Red Cross kits to help them survive while the Japanese kept them barely on the brink of being alive. Disease and malnutrition were slowly killing them while they struggled to find hope in the midst of a different kind of victim of war. I easily give this wonderful novel a well deserved 5 out of 5 stars. There is a Reader's Discussion Guide included at the conclusion of this novel that is perfect for book clubs.

For more information about Remember the Lilies, Liz Tolsma, or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Remember the Lilies by Liz Tolsma

You can find Liz Tolsma on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Remember the Lilies, please visit Litfuse Publicity's book tour page. 

This gripping new tale from Liz Tolsma, Remember the Lilies, is a must-read for fans of WWII-era fiction. When Irene is attacked by a sinister Japanese guard and their secrets are exposed, she and Rand must learn the true meaning of forgiveness—if they can stave off starvation until the American troops bring freedom.

Help Liz celebrate the release of Remember the Lilies with a Kindle Fire giveaway!

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• One copy of Remember the Lilies

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on 2/19. Winner will be announced at Liz's Remember the Lilies Facebook author chat party. RSVP for a chance to connect with Liz and WWII fiction fans, as well as for a chance to win some great prizes!   

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RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK, TWITTER, or PINTEREST and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 19th!

Return to Exile

There are some disadvantages to reading series. I guess for me is that it is often so long between books, that you have to reread the first or hope that the author provides enough insight at the beginning of the second or third books to help you remember where you left off. Another is how they end. I personally hate cliff hanger endings, but as a writer myself, I know that is just how I would leave each book in the series. Kinda like the television or movie series we see. It makes you disappointed at first, but then hungry for more. You just have to come back to see how it all turns out.

If you love time travel, romance or historical fiction, or like me, a bit of all three, you will want to pick up The Carthage Chronicles from best-selling author Lynne Gentry. Her first novel in the series, Healer of Carthage is about a 21st century doctor whose father has a love for archaeology. Couple that with a bit of mysterious paintings in a cave in Egypt, known simply as the Cave of Swimmers. Dr. Lisbeth Hastings lost her mother in the Cave of Swimmers and never knew what happened to her until she herself fell into the watery cavern. Turns out it transports people back into the third century in Rome, not the place you'd want to be as a woman.

In Return to Exile, we pick the series back up after Lisbeth had returned back to the 21st century at the conclusion of the first novel, in love with a man she left behind as her husband. In order to protect her, she was thrown back into the cistern which took her back to present time, where she learned she was pregnant with Cyprian's child. Knowing her daughter is extremely claustrophobic, she knows taking her daughter Maggie back in time, won't be easy. Her father insists on accompanying her to see the wife he thought died so long ago. Turns out she has become infamous for her healing abilities and remains the slave/wife to a cruel dictator named Aspasius, whose goal is to control all the Christians still dwelling in the providence. He has successfully exiled Cyprian and during Lisbeth's escape, her mother managed to flee into the hills where she remains hidden trying to control the spread of measels which is becoming a pandemic of epic portions.

Just as Lisbeth realizes she can't take her daughter with her in time, Maggie jumps into her arms at the last moment, just as the watery portal takes them both back to Rome. Her father didn't have the chance to make it. This time when Lisbeth returns to Rome armed with medical supplies to help her mother control the diseases killing the poor, she learns the despite keeping her heart open to loving Cyprian again and sharing the joy of his first child with him, she learns he didn't believe she was coming back and has married her best friend Ruth. Does Lisbeth stay or will she take Maggie and head back to the life she left behind in Dallas? You'll have to pick this one up to find out.

I received Return to Exile by Lynne Gentry compliments of Litfuse Publicity andHoward Books, a division of Simon and Schuster 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 personal opinion. I was so thrilled to see what the outcome would be for Lisbeth and Cyprian and was not prepared for what Lisbeth had to face heading back to Rome. I felt so sorry for her and completely understood how difficult things would be on both ends. I am super excited to see what the outcome will be when the next novel comes out Valley of Decision, and be warned this one does leave you with a bit of a cliff hanger ending but also a sneak peek into the next novel to help calm your nerves a bit. For me, I LOVE this series and this one rates a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion. A Reader Discussion Guide is included as well as a Q and A with the author at the conclusion of this novel.

For more information about Return to Exile, Lynne Gentry or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Return to Exile by Lynne Gentry

You can find Lynne Gentry on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Return to Exile, please visit Litfuse Publicity's Book Tour Page. 

The Dandelion Field

Oh how Max hated dandelions. He believed that they ruined the look of the yard. He battled those dandelions constantly. His young son Cody, however saw the dandelions as an endless supply just steps from his front door to gather into bouquets perfect for his mom, Evie. It was no wonder that Cody would be upset when he can home from preschool to find his field of dandelions had been mowed down. When Max went to pick Cody up the next day, he didn't come inside right away. Instead Max and Cody were in the yard, blowing dandelion seeds everywhere. Max said that they were planting a dandelion field.

Why would a man who constantly waged war against dandelions plant them on purpose?

Max replied, "You do whatever you have to do so they know you love them."

This would be the lasting memory that Evie Bennett would reflect on whenever she twisted the gold band she still wore after all these years, like a combination lock to those precious times she would remember the love Max so unconditionally gave them both before dying as a firefighter. It was also the reason Evie didn't want her son, Cody now on the verge of graduating to make that his career.

Thankfully though she had Dan Moretti, her friend and Max's friend from childhood to help become like a mentor and father figure to Cody all these years. He was on the verge of unlimited possibilities for his future when they are both rocked by the news that Cody is going to be a father. Something any of them didn't see coming, especially with Cody's faith being as strong as they could have hoped.

But life is like that, instead of it working out as you have planned, perhaps God has other things in mind. But that is not what Ginevieve Lightly believes when her daughter Raine drops the news in her lap. She was hoping her illness was the result of an eating disorder not morning sickness. She didn't even realize that Raine was dating or seeing anyone. She had hoped that the one year she promised Raine they would stay in Banister Falls, Wisconsin as the result of her car breaking down, would give them time for a fresh start, just not the start either of them were looking to find. All Gin can think of is her own past experiences and how just when you need men the most is when they are no where to be found. What would they do now?

I received The Dandelion Field by Kathryn Springer compliments of Zondervan Publishing 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. This is such a moving novel because the characters have to deal with a difficult situation and keep the relationships of both Cody and Raine from falling apart. They offer a look at what supportive parents and friend do when facing with insurmountable issues of an unexpected pregnancy from the perspectives of believers and non believers alike. The emotions are well thought out and expressed like you would find in a situation like this, but the side of relying on your faith is what gets you through. I think the theme of this novel is the simple statement of what Max exemplified to his son Cody, "You do whatever you have to do so they know you love them." I loved this novel and give it 5 out 5 stars in my opinion. There is a reader's discussion guide at the conclusion that is perfect for book clubs!

For more information about The Dandelion Field, Kathryn Springer or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

The Dandelion Field by Kathryn Springer

You can find Kathryn Springer on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on The Dandelion Field, please visit Litfuse Publicity's book tour page. 


Get ready for Valentine's Day with a new story of romance and falling in love in Kathryn Springer's The Dandelion Field. The handsome firefighter makes a living “coming to the rescue,” but Gin is used to fighting her own battles. Can a woman who doesn't believe in happy endings take a chance on a new beginning? 

Celebrate a second chance at love and family with Kathryn by entering her Kindle Fire giveaway!

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• The Dandelion Field

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on February 15th. Winner will be announced February 16th on the Litfuse blog.

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