Driftwood Point

I am so blessed to have been a part of Mariah Stewart's amazing series, The Chesapeake Diaries from the very beginning and have lovingly enjoyed each of the novels that she introduces. I truly hope it never ends. Driftwood Point is the 10th novel to enter into the world of the residents of St. Dennis, a charming seaside community along the Chesapeake Bay. Once more readers are taken back to that small town sense of community and companionship you dream really exists in the world.

As the art display of Lisbeth Parker is about to make its debut in the small town, everyone is generally excited to have one of their own, now about to become a well-known name in the world of art. Even though she was raised along the Chesapeake Bay in the nearby Cannonball Island, her paintings are that of New York cityscapes and that of Central Park during the changing seasons. People are truly drawn to them in such a way but even her family wonders why someone who spent her whole life living on the Bay isn't drawn to capture the life of the island and its town before it soon is abandoned much like the beach cottages that lie desolate all over the small community.

She returns to spend some time figuring out why she no longer has the inspiration to paint anymore as many of her painting in her New Jersey apartment now sit vacant and unfinished. Perhaps its the change in her own life as she walked away from an engagement to a man she no longer loved. Is the island calling her back? She now is helping her 100-year-old great grandmother Ruby, run the general store on the island and finding some sort of inspiration she has been missing. Maybe it's time to renovate the family's deteriorating cottage along Driftwood Point and start over again. Whatever life is ready to hand her, she is more than ready.

Alec Jansen has had a crush on Lisbeth since the fifth grade and is more than thrilled when she moves back to Cannonball Island with her great-grandmother, but soon finds himself defending his actions to help her renovate a few things in the general store in lieu of payment by restoring an original skipjack that his family had made. She believes that Alec has taking advantage of her great-grandmother because she always believed the boat should stay as part of her family home. Now it just seems like things are changing and Lis can't do anything to stop them. Alec meanwhile has been hired by a land developer to look into the abandoned homes now all over Cannonball Island in the hopes of making a tidy profit off of buying them, demolishing them and rebuilding something more large and extravagant in their place and his eyes are set primarily on the 22 acres of Driftwood Point.

I received Driftwood Point by Mariah Stewart compliments of Simon and Schuster Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this novel in exchange for my personal and unbiased review. Coming back to St. Dennis has always been huge favorite of mine and this entire series would make for a great summer read. But trust me, while each can stand on its own, you won't know each of the resident's stories until you read them as they have moved or married within the town limits of St. Dennis. This is truly a charming and heart-warming series and one I am so excited to see whenever there is a new addition. By the way this one ends, looks like there is more in store for the residents of St. Dennis in the very near future. For me this one is another 5 out of 5 stars!

For more information about Driftwood Point, Mariah Stewart or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Driftwood Point by Mariah Stewart

You can find Mariah Stewart on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Driftwood Point, please visit Simon and Schuster's website. 

Almost Like Being in Love

What woman hasn't dreamed of her ideal wedding? From the dress, to the venue, to the honeymoon and even whom she might marry? Caron had hoped that the man she had been dating for the last 2 years and known since she was fifteen might be excited as she is when she wins a destination wedding in Telluride, Colorado. The only problem is that he hasn't exactly proposed. So how does she break this news to him without upsetting the apple cart? Especially since she has quit her job working for her father at Hollister Realty Group, when he choose a business partner to help the business instead of Caron. After all she had hoped that her successes in real estate might just give her the edge she needed to convince her father she'd make the ideal partner.

Since that wasn't going to happen, she opted to quit and try to find herself in all the choices she has made in her life, seeking the approval of her father, as worthy in his eyes, instead of being whom God has created her to be. Her boyfriend Alex, is less that supportive when he learns she is no longer employed. He has his own struggles dealing with his alcoholic mother who can't seem to get past the death of his younger brother. So while Alex juggles trying to be a care giver when his dad is busy, to keep his mom from falling further into depression, he can't deal with Caron's issues with her own father.

Taking a month off of their relationship for now, Caron takes up her ex-boyfriends offer to help stage a home his real estate company is hoping to sell in Colorado. She will spend time with her best friend helping make wedding preparations while she sorts out the ongoing feelings for both her father and Alex. Busy work is just what she needs, but will those feelings she has for Kade Webster be rekindled or will she realize that she really does love Alex after all. Sometimes distance and perspective is all that is needed and she has a year before she has to redeem her wedding anyway. There is plenty of time, right?

I received Almost Like Being in Love by Beth K. Vogt compliments of Howard Books, a division of Simon and Schuster Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this novel in exchange for my unbiased and personal opinion. I really love the complexity of the issues facing all three characters. They are each dealing with the past that is keeping them from moving forward and for Alex and Caron, they are dealing with trying to please everyone but themselves and in the process don't seem to realize they are lost in the fact they don't know who they are or what they truly want. Love how this plays out all the way to the end. For me, this one rates a 4 out of 5 stars. This is the second novel in the Destination Wedding series!

For more information about Almost Like Being in Love, Beth K.Vogt or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Almost Like Being in Love by Beth K. Vogt

You can find Beth K. Vogt on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest novels.

You can read more reviews on Almost Like Being in Love by visiting Howard Book's website. 

GO PUCK: The World's Most Versatile Battery - Product Review

I am super excited to share a great new product with you. For anyone who has ever winded up with a dead battery and no way to charge it, I have something you'd be interested in that works better than promised. It is called GO PUCK. About the size and weight of a hockey puck, the GO PUCK is a device that can charge up to two devices simultaneously to full capacity within about an hour or two depending on the device, via the USB cable which comes included.

I had the opportunity to try GO PUCK and mine not only came with the USB cable to allow you to charge the GO PUCK device but to use it to charge any device with the standard charging port found on most devices with the exception of the iPhone. However you can use your iPhone charger to plug into your device and then attach the USB end directly into the GO PUCK for a recharge.

This would be so convenient for someone like my husband who uses his phone during his flights and can't always find someplace to charge it during the flight or during brief layovers. In fact, he tested it for me during his flights to Boston and Texas and both times, this worked flawlessly. It gave him just what he needed so he didn't have to stop and find an outlet somewhere to charge his phone or tablet. This would also be great for hikers who don't always have access to a charger during weekend hikes, when an emergency might warrant such a need or when a back up battery simply won't do. Plus it is rugged: shock and vibration resistant. Students or anyone who simply don't have access to a charging station depending on your need, you don't have to worry about one now, as long as you have your Go Puck charged before you leave.

Here are you specs on the GO PUCK: It is wearable as long as you get the active mount. (Mine is included and pictured here). It is a 2.4 A output 2A input and up to 2 times faster charging than other systems. The capacity is a lithium power to go 6,600mAh  24.42 Wh. It is sharable in that it can charge up to two devices at once with the dual USB ports on the GO PUCK.

This can charge any device such as a smartphone, device, action camera, wearables like smart watches and even Bluetooth devices. This is truly mobile freedom and one I would highly recommend adding to your emergency packs. Capacity for charging is depending on the devices you are charging and the model Go Puck you have. There are 3X, 5X and 6XR models available but tablets can be charged 1 time, large phones can be charged 2 times, small phones 4 times, and action cameras between 3-6 times depending on the device manufacturer and weight of the device from 4 oz up to 6.5 oz. You can even enjoy up to 4 times faster recharging with the 6XR Model. With the active mount, you can clip it on, strap it or mount it on your device or backpack (See picture below). The GO PUCK comes with a LED that will turn off while charging your device.

I received the GO PUCK compliments of GO PUCK and Omni-Deals for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a complimentary GO PUCK in exchange for my unbiased and personal opinion. I really LOVE this for anyone who uses a wireless device and hates the hassle of always trying to find some place to charge it. Now I need to get my husband to give it back so I can have it handy. Most likely I'll end up buying two more, one for him and one for my daughter who is always forgetting to charge her phone. No more excuses of my phone died and I didn't have a place to charge it. I easily give this one a 5 out of 5 stars.

For more information about the GO PUCK, or where you can pick one up today, please click on the links below:

GO PUCK: The World's Most Versatile Battery

You can find GO PUCK on Facebook to stay up to date on all their latest products and uses.

The Ringmaster's Wife

"We only see what we want to see - in people, in love, and in life. What we see is a choice, as is what we offer the world in return. And it's only behind the costumes and the masks that we can be who we truly are." ~ Mable Ringling

I am completely blown away by a story within a story based on historical facts of the life of Mable and John Ringling in Kristy Cambron's latest novel, "The Ringmaster's Wife." It will be forever a part of my permanent library and one that will long be forever inscribed in my heart as an all-time, will read again and again novel. Brilliant in its execution into taking readers not only in the behind the scenes of the Ringling Bros. circus but more than that to the very lives of the couple that while unable to have any children themselves made sure to entertain and capture the very imagination and essence of children everywhere if only for a brief moment in time.

While John Ringling came from a affluent lifestyle building up his circus enterprise, he fell in love with a small farm town girl he met while visiting Chicago one day. Mable was filled with the hopeful dreams that one day life just might offer her more than what others believed she would end up with. Never too far from her was a cigar box filled with newspaper clippings that housed a world that Mable hoped might one day come true, and if determination was any indicator, she would fulfill them all. When she caught the attention of John, she never imagined her life would ever be the same, and the details she saw that no one else did would forever change the lives of the family that would become part of the Ringling world.

For Lady Rosamund Easling, life was all about choices and the perfect match. Being paired with just the right man was something her parents sought after in an attempt to keep the Easling estate from falling into ruin, and they had just the perfect man in mind. However because Rosamund refused to give up her childish notions of spending the afternoons riding her black Arabian Ingènue bareback as a tribute of sorts to the brother Hendrick she lost when the war took him away. Her family insisted on selling her horse without her permission in order to make her focus on her future, but in Rosamund's mind it was already settled. Thankfully she was given an opportunity to follow her horse to America and ensure that he was properly cared for by Colin Keary, but Colin has other plans of his own in mind.

He knows that in order for a circus to stay successful one must always find ways of packing the Big Top and if witnessing Rosamund talents in the field one day when she thought no one was watching was an indicator, he has just found Ringling's new top star! Now if he can only find a way to convince her to come to America and leave behind the life of a well-to-do lady with a title he could never hope to gain. In fact, he would spend his entire life trying to make up for past mistakes in his life and he owed his future to the Ringling's. He would do everything to ensure they were always a success.

I received The Ringmaster's Wife by Kristy Cambron compliments of Thomas Nelson Publishers and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this novel in exchange for my unbiased and personal opinion. I was simply captivated from the first three sentences of this novel, which I captured by the quote at the beginning of this review. It really does convey the persona's we all put on each and every day. The person we allow people to see and the person we are inside. What child hasn't wanted to run away at some point to join the circus and gain a sense of what really goes on in the Big Top. I absolutely LOVE the historical details that Kristy captured in the Ringling's home in Sarasota and hope to add this to my bucket list to see this year hopefully! This one was over way too soon and I know deep in my heart, Kristy has managed to entertain the notion in my heart that "faith that when one has no control, there is One who does." 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion and even comes with Discussion Questions at the conclusion. Can't wait to reread this one again!

For more information about The Ringmaster's Wife, Kristy Cambron or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

The Ringmaster's Wife by Kristy Cambron

You can find Kristy Cambron on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more review on The Ringmaster's Wife, please visit Litfuse Publicity's Book Tour Page. 

Jilted

"My daughter, Ruthie, always called me a glass-is-half-empty kind of person, but she was wrong."

I love it when novels open with a opening statement that truly makes me want to read more and more. Kinda like that first bite of your favorite food. Memories are a lot like that. Just the smell or the taste of something can bring us back to the very essence of that moment. For Lynda Turner and Clyde Felton are each working through their own set of memories and in this case they are not at all pleasant.

Lynda has been abandoned by men her whole life and now she is dealing with the consequences of coping with those losses in the form of depression. She goes through episodes now and again and finds solace driving out to watch the windmills turn and cast shadows that will capture and move her memories to the past where they belong. She just needs to find a way to keep moving forward, while working at the local diner as a cook now.

For Clyde Felton, is seems if there is any crime in the town of Trapp, Texas, everyone seems to think Clyde may have had a hand in it or is responsible. After all, once a criminal always a criminal right? But with Clyde's criminal past, even though he served his time and is trying to find a way back, the residents can't seem to see him as anything but a tarnished penny. Unworthy or unneeded to be polished back to its former glory. Maybe that is why he developed feelings for Lynda. They say opposites attract, but in this case much like the scripture from the Bible in Ecclesiates 4:9-10, "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor; If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up." This is the theme we see played out between Lynda and Clyde.

I received Jilted by Varina Denman compliments of David C Cook Publishers and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this novel in exchange for my personal and unbiased opinion. The hardest thing for anyone who has faced a bad past is the ability to find a way to move forward, and be able to leave it behind. For both Lynda and Clyde, they have to come to terms with doing so in different ways. Lynda has to deal with the issues of abandonment from those in her life, willingly or unwillingly. Clyde has to deal with always feeling like an outsider and that nothing he does will ever be good enough, especially within the church he attends. It seems hard for people to apply the Bible to their own lives and instead find ways to sit back and judge the actions of those around them, instead of seeing them like God does with love and unconditional grace and mercy. I give this novel a 4 out of 5 stars and this is the third in the Mended Hearts series. A book club discussion guide is included at the conclusion of this one.

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

Jilted by Varina Denman

You can find Varina Denman on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Jilted, please visit Litfuse Publicity's Book Tour page.

Can all things really work together for good, and can the joy of living be found once again? Don't miss one woman's story in book three, Jilted, of Varina Denman's Mended Hearts series. Lynda Turner has struggled with depression since her husband abandoned her and their young daughter fifteen years ago. Yet unexpected hope awakens when a local ex-convict shows interest. As long-hidden secrets resurface, Lynda must fight for her emotional stability and for a life where the shadow of shame is replaced by the light of love.

Celebrate the release of Varina's Jilted by entering to win a $50 gift card.

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of Jilted to kick off a summer of reading
• A $50 Kohl's gift card to make your summertime sweet

The giveaway ends on July 1st. The winner will be announced July 5th on Varina's website.

Close To Home

When you lose the love of your life, how long will it take before you feel comfortable about dating again, or do you ever? What about the relationships you have built with the family after the death, do you maintain it or simply realize at some point that too will change? These are the questions running through Bree Whitman faces when it has been five years since she lost her Marine husband Tim in Afghanistan. She just can't even begin to imagine what that must be like, even though she is still young enough to begin again. Where does one even start? How will she ever be able to explain that to the Whitman family who feels more like her own family, than her real ones?

Since she has been on the receiving end of the attentions of her co-worker Aaron, who has expressed more than a passing interest in dating her, Bree just isn't sure what to do, but believes it may be time to see how it might work out with Aaron. While her job permits interoffice dating, she knows if it doesn't work out, it will be very uncomfortable to continue to work together and it may affect her working relationship with clients in the event planning business if her and Aaron can't work together. Still it is a risk she is willing to begin, but when Aaron gets too pushy on what he believes Bree should be willing to do at this point in her grieving process, she begins to wonder if she made a mistake, especially when he wants her to give up her Tuesday night dinners with the Whitman family at the Chicory Inn.

Drew Brooks find himself laid off from his job and with no prospects within town including with his brother Dallas' company that is at a hiring freeze, he opts to look outside for work in St. Louis. He just didn't expect it would mean giving up being a part of the family with the Whitmans. But since Grant and Audrey's mother, Cee-Cee is dealing with health issues including forgetting things and running the risk of getting injured living alone in her old age, they believe now is the time to begin building her a small cottage in the meadow on the land in which they run the Chicory Inn, a bed and breakfast so they can keep her close but still allow her to live independently. Now that Drew is looking for work, Grant offers him a job working on the cottage with him until he can find a more permanent job. That works out perfectly until he begins to spend Tuesday nights with the Whitmans and finds a friendship with Bree building into something much more more!

I received Close to Home by Deborah Raney compliments of Net Galley and Abingdon Press for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free eBook of Close To Home in exchange for my unbiased and personal opinion. Since I have read the previous novels, this one was missing and was so glad I got the chance to see how Bree would deal with the loss of her husband Tim. I can only imagine how difficult the situation would be and dealing not only with your own feelings but that of your former spouses as well. This played out so well and I was rooting for Bree and Drew the whole time. I really didn't think she would work out with Aaron since their first interactions. A man who thinks Bree is ready but isn't willing to consider all the aspects of beginning again, certainly isn't worth anyone's time. I would easily give this one a 5 out of 5 stars and reader's even get a sneak peek at the 5th novel coming soon, Home at Last! Even though these are part of a series, you can read this one just fine, but the back stories of each of them are in subsequent novels including the first one that establishes why Grant and Audrey decided to start a Bed and Breakfast in their home.

The Chicory Inn Series
1 - Home to Chicory Lane
2 - Two Roads Home
3 - Another Way Home
4 - Close to Home
5 - Home at Last (Coming Soon)

For more information about Close to Home, Deborah Raney or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Close to Home by Deborah Raney 

You can find Deborah Raney on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

You can read more reviews on Close to Home at Abingdon Press' website.

When Calls the Heart - Heart of a Hero

Looking for a great family series that is suitable for all ages? Trust me, check out When Calls the Heart! It began with the novel from Janette Oke and spawned into a great series that you can find on the Hallmark Channel. Now going on it's 4th season soon, this is produced by Michael Landon Jr, whose family has produced some amazing series geared for families.

When Calls the Heart - Heart of a Hero, is the 3 DVD release in Season 3 that showcases the life of a frontier town called Hope Valley, a mining town out west that takes us into the heart of all the town's residents, and has roots in relationships, self-empowerment, love and enduring power of love. New arrivals bring excitement, love and danger to Hope Valley. Pastor Frank has been reinstated following the revelation of his criminal past, but the arrival of his old cohorts, the Garrison Gang, are making life - and his relationship with Abigail Stanton (Lori Loughlin) - very tense. Bill Avery (Jack Wagner) has his own debt to settle with Jake Garrison, and Jack Thornton (Daniel Lissing), intends to stay Bill's hand from killing the man. Meanwhile, Lee Coulter's foot injury brings a pretty nurse, Faith Carter from Hamilton...and soon after, her possessive fiancè. And Jack rises to the defense of new settlers on Gowen's land when Gowen abruptly raises their rent.

Just when you thought love was blooming in all the right places for our favorite characters Elizabeth Thatcher (Erin Krakow) and Abigail Stanton who have had their faith share of problems, now it seems they will have to deal with issues from the past in both of their situations. Faith was the nurse who helped Jack's brother back in Elizabeth's hometown of Hamilton and caused their relationship to be tested and now she is in Hope Valley. But will she stay? Will Pastor Frank even be able to face the town again as their man of faith, when he held back his own secret past? What will that do for the relationship that was just beginning to kindle with Abigail? It seems our heroes heart will be put to the ultimate test.

I received When Calls the Heart: Heart of a Hero by Word Films and Edify Media Inc for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review aside from a free copy of this DVD in exchange for my unbiased and personal opinion. This has truly been my favorite series from the Hallmark Channel, in part because I grew up with Little House on the Prairie and now When Calls the Heart is this generations equivalent of the same. It has great moral lessons and the characters convey the consequences that come from wrong decisions, but forgiveness and unconditional love always win out in the end. Dove Family Approved and running time is 84 minutes approximately and worth all 5 out of 5 stars.

For more information about When Calls the Heart, Word Films, The Hallmark Channel or where you can pick up this DVD today, please click on the links below:

When Calls the Heart: Heart of A Hero 

You can find When Calls the Heart on Facebook to stay up to date all everything from the series.

You can find Word Films on Facebook to stay up to date on all their latest movie and film projects.

NKJV American Woman's Bible

"Alexis de Tocqueville wrote at the conclusion of Democracy in America, his landmark work of the nineteenth century:

"And now that I come near the end of this book in which I have recorded so many considerable achievements of the Americans, if anyone asks me what I think the chief cause of the extraordinary prosperity and growing power of this nation, I should answer that it is due to the superiority of their women."

America is the beneficiary of the great feats, the deep faith, and the powerful influences of women throughout her past up to the present. In the words of Penny Nance, President of Concerned Women for America, the American Women's Bible "points the way for the women of our time...By taking on the mantle of godly virtues, women can bring about the changes needs to keep this nation strong." (insert).

The American Woman's Bible is to see how women throughout the history of this great nation have lived out those biblical values, such as courage, faith, honor, mercy, sacrifice, forgiveness, obedience, resourcefulness and more. The purpose of this Bible is not just to tell these women's stories. More than that, its purpose is to show how living by those values taught to us in the Bible can make an individual great, a community great, and a nation great. Its emphasis is not only the great accomplishments by American women of the past; it also points the way for the women of our time. This has never been more needed than now.

"Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies." ~ Proverbs 31:10

I received the NKJV American Woman's Bible by Dr. Richard G. Lee, Editor,  compliments of Thomas Nelson Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this Bible in exchange for my honest and unbiased review. I absolutely LOVE this Bible. First on all is it easy to use, but the encouragement you can find through the stories of the woman from American history you will find throughout the Bible who lived those biblical values that women strive to make a part of their own lives. There is a section about how a woman's journey to godliness can be achieved through their study of walking through the Bible and great reference points are provided so you can find the ones in particular you are looking for. There are quotes, articles, biographies and more added to make this truly a journey through the eyes of what makes up a godly woman without taking anything away from the Bible. Ones you will find are Louisa May Alcott, Dolley Madison, Flannery O'Connor, Rosa Parks, Dale Evans Rogers, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Harriet Tubman, Martha Washington, Laura Ingalls Wilder and more. For me, this is such a great Study Bible because it is so easy to use and love the layout of the New King James Version which is what most pastors use. For me, an easy 5 out of 5 stars!

For more information about the NKJV American Woman's Bible or where to pick up a copy of this today, please click on the links below;

NKJV American Woman's Bible: Women, Godly Virtues, and the Making of America

You can read more reviews on the NKJV American Woman's Bible by visiting Thomas Nelson Publisher's website.

The Glass Castle

The best part of any novel in my opinion is one that can hold your interest and keep the plot line concealed so well you can't figure it out until you're in the final stretch and Trisha White Priebe and Jerry B. Jenkins do just that in their series, Thirteen with the first novel The Glass Castle. The cover is what initially drew me into this one as well as the success of Jerry B. Jenkins, (Left Behind). This is one I will definitely be following all the way to the conclusion. This is written for young adults and teens, but anyone who loves a bit of fantasy and medieval history will want to pick this up as well.

The greatest fear for any child is to be separated from your family and yet that is just what happens to both Avery and Henry who are abducted while exploring the woods outside their family home. All Avery knows is when she wakes up, she is kept caged in a box, making preparations to move her to another location, with only an old woman to answer a few of the questions she has. Avery knows she simply has to buy her time before making any plans for escape. Plus the threat from the old woman that if she attempts to escape, she will never see Henry again.

She arrives to a golden castle which her mother used to spin tales of during her time with them but suddenly vanished one day. "Every fairy tale has its dragon." is what she used to remind Avery and it seems this might be very true. She is set free in the midst of other young teens just about her age, locked away within the very walls of the castle. She is given a brief tour with a stern reminder never to open or look out the windows and when the bell sounds, they must retreat to their safe rooms, a sign adults are coming.

It appears that the teens work for the king and soon to be queen without their knowledge only that the staff do their bidding when asked. They never appear and remain hidden at all times. Those that are discovered are sent away to the Forbidden City, a place where no one ever returns and one that keeps the children to the set of standards imposed on them. But why can't Avery seem to find her brother, and where is he being kept. All she knows is that her one ally is a girl named Kate who takes a true liking to her and helps her to keep from getting into trouble. All they know is that the king is dying and must produce an heir from the future queen so that the kingdom will remain within her control and rumors circulate that the kings first born might still be alive, but then again it is only a rumor or is it?

I received The Glass Castle by Trisha White Priebe and Jerry B. Jenkins compliments of Net Galley and Barbour Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside for a free eBook copy of this novel in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion. This is going to be such a grand series when it is finished because as I stated earlier you don't know what is going on until almost the conclusion of this one and I can see where the Christian theme will come into play in a wonderful light. Readers get a bit of a sneak peek at the conclusion of this one of the sequel The Ruby Moon which will release in the fall of 2016 so readers don't have long to wait to see what happens next. Those fans of C.S. Lewis and Tolkien will absolutely love this coming of age medieval fairy tale and in my opinion this one garners a 4 out of 5 stars.

For more information about The Glass Castle, Trisha White Priebe, Jerry B. Jenkins or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

The Glass Castle by Trisha White Priebe and Jerry B. Jenkins

You can find Jerry B. Jenkins on Facebook to stay up to date on all his latest novels.

Medical Judgment

Sometimes no matter how much we want to put the past behind us, it keeps rearing its ugly head. For Dr. Sarah Gordon, as much as she wishes each morning that her nightmare isn't real with the death of her daughter and husband, reality comes each morning when she realizes her bed will always remain empty. Work for now at the hospital is the only solace she can find to keep moving forward. She has all but given up on church, believing that God doesn't care enough about her, because if He did, why didn't he stop that accident that took her life from her? She is angry, and bitter even blaming her husband if that were at all reasonable, but that is what grief does. It keeps you in a senseless bondage at times and nothing seems rational.

She had thought perhaps the noise she heard and the subsequent smell of smoke, might just be in her imagination, but when she goes to investigate, she realizes that someone has attempted to set her house on fire, leaving behind some oily rags to be the catalyst. Good thing for her, quick thinking and a rapid response from her local fire department prevented any real damage from happening. She can't imagine not living in the house where so many memories of her previous life are still ingrained. But who could have deliberately set her house on fire? Those of the questions Detective Bill Larson has for her when he has her come into the station, but for the life of Sarah, she can't think of anyone who would want to do that.

Kyle Andrews, attorney and best friend to her former husband, understands what it is to lose someone you love. He vows in his mind that even if Sarah doesn't ask, he will step up and do the right thing and that means being there for her, when her husband can't. It is what he knows he would of wanted so as both her attorney he offers his legal and personal advice to keep Sarah safe. He helps makes arrangement with a local friend and contractor to help get her home restored from the smoke and fire damage so she doesn't have to move out. He offers to help with a security system and even a suggestion she might want to have a gun, but all those are not options Sarah is willing to consider. For now, she just wants the person/s caught so she can move forward in her life, without the attentions of two men who simply are looking out for her best interests. But things are about to escalate in the worst possible way and it will make you wonder who can you really trust in the end!

I received Medical Judgment by Richard L Mabry, MD compliments of Litfuse Publicity and Abingdon Press for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside for a free copy of this book in exchange for my unbiased and personal review. I've been a huge fan of Richard L Mabry's novels for quite some time, because they are realistic in their core pertaining to medical procedures without being cheesy like Grey's Anatomy. There is always a mystery behind the facade and you just never know what you are in for each time, but you know it will be exceptional. I loved this one as well because during the entire novel, I kept trying to figure out who it might be. Richard does a great job at keeping it concealed until just the right moment and then you are hooked to the very end to see how it will all play out. Nothing like a great cat and mouse suspense thriller and this one garners a 4.5 out of 5 stars in my mind.

For more information about Medical Judgment, Richard L Mabry MD, or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Medical Judgment by Richard L Mabry MD

You can find Richard L Mabry MD on Facebook to stay up to date on all his latest novels.

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


Just what the doctor ordered: heart-thumping suspense and intrigue, courtesy of Richard Mabry’s new medical drama, Medical Judgment. Someone is after Dr. Sarah Gordon. They’ve stalked her and set a fire at her home. Trying to recover from the traumatic deaths of her husband and infant daughter is tough enough, but she has no idea what will come next. As the threats on her life continue to escalate, so do the questions: Who is doing this? Why are they after her? And with her only help being unreliable suitors in competition with each other, whom can she really trust?

Join Richard in celebrating the release of Medical Judgment by entering to win an e-reader!

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of Medical Judgment
• A Kindle Fire HD 6

Enter today by clicking the icon below, but hurry! The giveaway ends on June 21st. The winner will be announced June 22nd on the Litfuse blog.

An Elegant Facade

"Marriage cannot be left up to chance. I have to make it happen."

For Lady Georgina Hawthorne, the right match will mean everything. While she has waited for her older sister Miranda for three years to find the right match, but she is still searching. Georgina can't wait any longer. In order to make this a successful coming out, it has taken planning all her life along with help from her lady's maid Harriette, it will be perfect. Her plan is to find an Duke and there are five on the list if she includes her brother. Now all she has to do is perfect all the right nuances to make just the right man fall into her plans for marriage.

Colin McCrae isn't one to keep up appearances because as a businessman with connections in the world of affluence, he knows that most eligible women are bound to look the other way. Despite all his well meaning relationships with those that have invited him into all the right balls and socials, he enjoys the entertainment value that comes from watching how hard women will work at gaining a suitable husband and none more so than that of Lady Georgina. To say that Colin and Georgiana are like fire and water would be an understatement. Sparks fly whenever they are together and each take turns at trying to best one another while keeping their social graces. They seemly seem to hate one another more than anything and yet find themselves thrown together more than you can count.

Georgina can not let Colin ruin the only chance she has before anyone finds out the true secret she's been hiding and she isn't about to let him stand in the way. No matter where she turns, he is always there out to try her patience as a Lady. She must marry before she brings a scandal to her family name, but like she is reminded, it's only a scandal if anyone knows about it. Colin however, learns that Georgina is hiding and why he can't understand why she won't tell anyone, he won't be the person to potentially ruin her future by divulging what that is.But what secrets is Colin hiding?

I received An Elegant Facade by Kristi Ann Hunter compliments of Net Galley and Bethany House Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation, aside from a free eBook in exchange for my unbiased and personal review. This is the second novel in the Hawthorne House Series, with A Noble Masquerade being the first. Since I missed out on that one, I was pleasantly surprised to learn it was not needed to thoroughly enjoy this one. I absolutely LOVED the chemistry at work between Colin and Georgina and could understand why she kept up the appearances of her secret for so long. It breaks my heart to see how desperate some women were at securing whatever match they could before they wrote themselves off to spinsterhood. The title makes perfect sense for this novel and it will take you awhile before you learn that it is. That is the earmark of a quintessential best seller when you can keep the reader entertained until the very end without giving too much away too soon. For me, this one rates a 4 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

For more information about An Elegant Facade, Kristi Ann Hunter or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

An Elegant Facade by Kristi Ann Hunter

You can find Kristi Ann Hunter on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on An Elegant Facade, please visit Bethany House Publisher's website. 

The Great Carp Escape

If you truly know what a Carp is, then you will know that they are not the most desired fish. In fact, most people who fish for them are out to kill them simply for the sport and they are like the rats of the fresh water system. More pests than anything and not even fit for consumption. It is hard to imagine how there could be a great moral lesson tucked into the pages of this beautifully illustrated children's book that debuts from author Irish Beth Maddock. Yet that is exactly the very point.

In fact, this book was laying on my desk waiting for me to write the review when my 17-year-old daughter picked it up and read it while cleaning one day. She absolutely LOVED it but mostly for the message behind it all. Haven't we all at one time or another simply felt unworthy or unloved? This allegory of the Gospel of Jesus and how He brings us - as represented by the carp - from dead water to living water in this beautifully illustrated book. This is based on a true story that Maddock experienced after her and her brother spent many afternoons playing in the shallows and discovering God's creation. It promotes compassion and appreciation for all of God's creatures, and helps children discover God's love through understanding and community. It reminds us that we are all beautiful and created for a unique purpose in this life that only we can fulfill.

This is a heartwarming story of two children who spend their time looking at the creatures they find in the lake, including the carp, which they discover a dead one while walking along the lake shore with their father. They believe it is truly the ugliest fish they have ever seen. Their dad reminds them that in God's eyes, that fish is pretty wonderful. When a spring thawed causes the water to rise, the children discover some carp are trapped far from the lake and face certain death unless they intervene to save them. How it winds up will have to wait for you to read this book.

I received The Great Carp Escape by Irish Beth Maddock compliments of InChrist Communications and Word Alive Press for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this book, in exchange for my unbiased review of the book. I absolutely LOVE how this one is laid out, from the illustrations, the simple words on each page and most of all the very moral of the story itself. It definitely engages an open conversation with parents and their children who are discovering their own worthiness and issues with self esteem. This proves to be that catalyst for those conversations into what makes us each unique and worthwhile to God. For me, this one rates a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion and my daughter has taken this for her future library for her own children one day.

For more information about The Great Carp Escape, Irish Beth Maddock or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

The Great Carp Escape by Irish Beth Maddock 

You can find Irish Beth Maddock on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest books.

From This Moment

"She'd learned along ago that courage was not the absence of fear, but the willingness to confront it."

Stella West learned quite a long time ago, the living in a man's world, she couldn't be afraid of those that would try to push her aside, from her father to the men who she would later work for in the art world. When she moved to London to become a well accomplished and much in demand artist, she had the world at her fingertips. She could go anywhere and demand most anything, but despite all her influence, she could save her beloved sister Gwendolyn and she had to watch her mother fall apart and sink into a deep depression that could very well consume the rest of her family.

She left it all behind when she was told Gwendolyn had drowned and knowing that her sister was the strongest swimmer in her family, she knew something was amiss and she was bound and determined to figure out just what happened to her. Piecing together small clues was leaving her frustrated and discouraged. All she had to go on was what she knew and that her sister was working with someone with the initials A.G. to uncover the corruption plaguing the city of Boston and the men responsible for getting bribes to simply looking the other way.

She needed help and it was about to come looking for her instead. Romulus White had been trying to figure out a way to persuade Stella West to come work for his magazine, Scientific World, as an illustrator. But after three years of failure, he must figure out a way to convince her to work for him. God was about to throw that opportunity right into his lap. Romulus was well known in the city and had lots of connections with high ranking people and that is what had garnered success for his magazine who he co-owned with his cousin, Evelyn. It seems now that Romulus and Stella had something on common and it would take working together to make the best of things. He used honey to attract friends, while Stella seemed to fling vinegar wherever she went. How will it all turn out in the end?

I received From This Moment by Elizabeth Camden compliments of Bethany House Publishers and Net Galley for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation, aside from an eBook of this novel in exchange for my unbiased and personal review. I've been a huge fan of Elizabeth Camden's novels partly because they always feature a strong and determined female character, who while she could use the help of the man in her life, she doesn't rely on it like a crutch. This is such a beautiful working relationship between the two because even though Romulus conveys his intentions to not marry until he is at least 40, Elizabeth believes she can work through that in her own mind. I think that rings true to most women when confronted with the same situation. We believe we can find a way to work through it and convince the man, he truly needs this person in his life and it doesn't apply to her after all. I love the authentic details that Ms Camden always uses as her setting and in this case readers get a glimpse historically at the challenges of magazine publishing, illustrations, photography and subway building in this historical romance novel. For me, well worth every single 5 out of 5 stars and inhaled this one in hours!

For more information about From This Moment, Elizabeth Camden or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

From This Moment by Elizabeth Camden

You can find Elizabeth Camden on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on From This Moment, please visit Bethany House Publisher's website. 

A Promise to Break

WOW! I almost gave up on this novel but took a break and resettled back into it someplace where the outside distractions of life were not present and I am so glad I did! A Promise to Break is the debut novel of Kathryn Spurgeon that chronicles the life of Sibyl Trimble, a young girl who believes she holds the promise of a future generation, at least that is what her father reminds her. She is as actively involved in politics and the outcomes of the country as it begins to enter 1930's with the threats to the economy from job losses to bank closures. Farmers are losing their farms as banks and the government foreclose on them instead of finding a way to help them stay afloat in Shawnee, Oklahoma.

It is advantageous for the Trimble family because they are not impacted like others in the city as they are part of the affluent, and while Sibyl struggles to figure out what her purpose in trying to help will play, her father and mother believe a suitable match to someone who can provide a financial future is the way to go. But James is not the answer to love or what Sibyl defines love truly is. She has a brief moment with a blue-eyed hobo in a train station that gives her a glimpse into what love at first sight might look like, but she knows that is the one promise she can't break to her father. To settle for love instead of wealth and security.

But God has much different plans and He creates a way for Sibyl to gain the insight into what her father's life truly looks like when the facade is removed and she can see him for what he truly is. A man consumed by greed and power, and it begins to divide even her own family beginning with her grandparents. Her younger sister winds up pregnant but is overlooked in her indiscretion as her family believed that would be her lot in life, but when it happens to Sibyl things are cast into a much different light and the future her father had planned begins to crumble one stone at a time.

I received A Promise to Break by Kathryn Spurgeon compliments of Memory House Publishing for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation, aside from a free copy of this novel in exchange for my unbiased personal opinion of the novel. This is such a two-sided look at what life must have been like for people living through the Great Depression as some benefited from it, while others lost everything they had including their lives when hope ran out. For Sibyl is shows her that God has always had a plan and purpose for her life even though it was not the one she thought it would be, and it always turns out to be better than what we hope. For me, this one rates a 4.5 out of 5 stars in my opinion and this story was based on the life of Kathryn's grandparents which we see glimpses of in the Author's Note section at the conclusion of this novel.

For more information about A Promise to Break, Kathryn Spurgeon or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

A Promise to Break by Kathryn Spurgeon

You can find Kathryn Spurgeon on her blog to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

My Father's House

Sometimes when you read a novel, you are taken back by some similarities you may have seen in a movie or read in another novel. My Father's House by Rose Chandler Johnson is much like that in the sense as you read through it, I was taken back to such movies like Sleeping with the Enemy or Enough with Jennifer Lopez. Both deal with domestic abuse and so does this one from a Christian perspective. While the Bible clearly reminds us not to be unequally yoked, Lily Rose Cates has dealt with enough loss in her life, that when a man comes around that looks and acts like the part, she falls for him without really knowing who he is.

She is desperate for someone to come along and take care of her, despite the fact that she has been doing it for herself all along. Even her wise Annie Ruth gets a sense of evil from the man, Manuel Valenti, whom is brought to her home to meet Lily's family. While he appears one way to Lily outside of the eyes of others, he is withdrawn and sullen around others. Claiming he is busy with his job as an attorney in Detroit, he is often too busy to attend to other things like establishing a relationship with Lily and her family. Despite all the warnings Annie Ruth gives Lily, she still decides to get married to Manuel without telling her or inviting her to the wedding.

Now the piper has come to call when that fairy tale like romance Manuel puts on for Lily is suddenly unveiled for the true person he is. He has her move in with him in Detroit and sell off all her belongings because they would just not fit in his modern home. He also advises her to sell her car, since he will provide one when they move to Detroit, something he never does. Now he has complete control over where she is, what she can do, and how far she can go. But when Annie Ruth's dog comes up killed after their recent visit, Lily can't help but wonder, who has she really married and even worse, how can she ever leave?

I received My Father's House by Rose Chandler Johnson compliments of Create Space Independent Publishing and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this novel in exchange for my unbiased and personal evaluation. Even though the story line is familiar, I was captivated once things started down the dangerous path with Manuel. You would have thought that Lily would have learned a thing or two, but I can understand how desperate some become in search for love. This is truly a story of looking for love in all the wrong places. Even though her conscience tells her to run, she refuses to believe all the signs laid out in front of her from the beginning, especially advice from those she trusts the most until it is too late. I would rate this one a 4.5 out of 5 stars and while it is a Christian based novel, it isn't too over the top that readers might be turned off by the religious undertones. It's a lesson for all of us to be wise as serpents in the choice we make.

For more information about My Father's House, Rose Chandler Johnson or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

My Father's House by Rose Chandler Johnson 

You can find Rose Chandler Johnson on Facebook to keep up with all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on My Father's House, please visit Litfuse Publicity's Book Tour Page. 

Dawn of Emberwilde

Who hasn't always dreamed that somewhere in our ancestral family tree sits a wealthy family member just waiting to help us with whatever life is handing out at the moment? Isabel Creston had believed when her father died, she was left alone with her half sister Elizabeth to spend her time at Fellsworth School waiting for the opportunity to work as a teacher or governess for some well-to-do family to hire her. She never dreamed that one day all that would change when Mr. Bradford is sent to retrieve her and Elizabeth from the school to live with her Aunt Margaret and Uncle Charles Ellison in Emberwilde.

Excitement and also a sense of loss accompany the girls as they arrive at the provincial estate surrounded by heavy forests. She hopes this will be the beginning of a whole new future for the two until she overhears her Aunt and Uncle arguing over who might be the best suitor for Isabel as they are dealing with financial ruin and hope that a smart match to the right man might alleviate any more strain on their debts. Rumors abound among the household staff that the Emberwilde forests are haunted with ghosts and one that apparently claimed the life of her mother as she will soon discover.

She is interested in two very different and handsome men. Mr. Bradford who was kind enough to make sure that Isabel and Elizabeth were not rushed into packing too soon before arriving at the new home, and is also in charge of running the Foundling House, which cares for orphans in helping them plan for a new future. Colin Galloway is the town's magistrate and has been hired to look into recent attempts at possible smuggling that might be going on in Emberwilde Forest, land that the Ellison family owns. How will she make the right choice when so many are pressuring to make a decision and both her Aunt and Uncle want her to pick very different men?

I received Dawn of Emberwilde by Sarah E. Ladd compliments of Thomas Nelson Publishers and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation, aside from a free copy of the novel in exchange for my personal and unbiased opinion. This is the second novel in the Treasures of Surrey series, and it makes me want to go back and read The Curiosity Keeper again to see where the tie in lies. It has been far too long between novels to remember, but it seems that perhaps they are simply very different stories in the same area involving different families. With that being said, you don't have to read the first novel to get a sense for what is happening here. I really love this one because it feels as if there is a blend of traditional regency mixed with a bit of fairy tale like Sleeping Beauty or Cinderella. You have Isabel which is removed from what she is used to and envisions a much different life than what she gets. Everything changes for her in one instant when she receives a letter announcing she suddenly has family again. For sure, it would be both exciting and a bit fearful to leave everything you've ever know behind as you hope for a different future for your life. I would rate this one a 4. 5 out of 5 stars and Discussion Questions and a peak at The Curiosity Keeper is included at the conclusion of this novel.

For more information about Dawn of Emberwilde, Sarah E. Ladd or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Dawn of Emberwilde by Sarah E. Ladd 

You can find Sarah E. Ladd on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Dawn of Emberwilde, please visit Litfuse Publicity's Book Tour Page. 

Zekpro LED Clip Reading Lamp

As a busy mom, we love it when we can find great products that truly work as well as they say they do. As a product reviewer, I am always looking for things that make my life easy and as a book reviewer working with major publishing houses, finding time to read is challenging. Most of the time it is done when everything else is from cooking dinner to getting homework done. As a wife who's husband travels, we know how precious sleep can be. So without disturbing my husband with a bright bedside table lamp, I offer you Zekpro LED Clip Reading Lamp. This is by far the BEST portable reading lamp I've ever tried. In fact, I didn't even get to try it out before my youngest daughter who is in high school snatched it up for her late night gaming sessions in bed.

The best things about this product are the 3 touch brightness settings that you can simply push a button to dim or raise the intensity of the LED display. I love how powerful the high setting is. The clamp is big enough you don't have to worry about it breaking, and it really has some weight to it so it doesn't feel cheap. The flexibility of the gooseneck all you to position it just where you need it the most. The best part, I saved for last, is the ability to eliminate the use of those disposable batteries and this one simply plugs into your USB port for a recharge. It lasts up to 5 hours which is just perfect for me to fit in a full length novel without disturbing anyone.

Some great uses for this are gaming to highlight your computer if it doesn't come with a lighted keyboard, camping for finding all those things we can misplace in the dark, and even for latenight cookouts on your bar-b-Que or campfire. It truly does put out some incredible light for this LED display. The light comes with both an adapter and a USB plug so you truly have the best of both worlds. This would also be great for college dorms for those late night study sessions when your room mate must get their sleep.

I received the Zekpro Reading Light Lamp compliments of VIP Power Club in exchange for my honest and unbiased review and did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review. I truly would buy more than one of these for use in my own and have to anyways because my daughter has commandeered mine, so this mom is purchasing another one. This a great gift for a book lover or busy student who is wanting a book reading light that truly works better than expected. For me, this one was a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

You can order a Zekpro Reading Light Lamp at Amazon.com. 

All Summer Long

"Whether the subject of change was partners, possessions, or places, some people had an easy time letting go."

I love capturing the essence of the novel I'm reviewing by its opening sentence and this one launches All Summer Long, the latest novel from best selling author Dorothea Benton Frank. Readers who are looking for something wonderful to read this summer, will definitely want to add this to their beach or lakeside bag as it is sure to provide you with simply all the entertainment and virtual escape you will need.

Olivia Ritchie, an interior designer and owner of her own company, has been living in two worlds. One in New York where she has made a wonderful living working on upscale designs for some of New York's wealthiest clientele. She has a great marriage with her husband Nick Seymour, an English professor and southern gentlemen who has made Olivia promise that one day they will leave the rat race and settle back in his childhood home of Charleston, South Carolina. For Olivia that day has come.

The one thing she has failed to do, is to clue Nick in on their finances. He has retired and while drawing his retirement, small pension and social security, Olivia had always felt confident she could handle all the finances. That is until the market began to dry up and clients could no longer afford those expensive homes that fed her salary requirements to keep the lifestyle she loved afloat. Without telling Nick, she agrees to sell their New York condo in lieu of keeping her promise and downsize to Charleston. It also means that her love of collecting trinkets to decorate their home, will have to go as well. But she vows she will do what is necessary to keep them alive until her next client comes through, which in this case is Bob and Martiza Vasile.

To say they're are rich is a complete understatement and this affords them the luxury of experiencing what it's like to be rich without all the hassle when they are invited on trips to private islands aboard a yacht, last minute trips to Spain for their son's wedding or whenever Maritza need's a good friend to talk to, Olivia is the one to call. But like the saying goes, life isn't always greener on the other side and when Olivia and Nick see what turmoil Maritza and Bob's marriage is, they vow to do all they can to help. I mean if you can't help your very well off friends, who can you help? After all, these trips are all 100% paid for by the Vasile's who don't seem to have a bottom to their bank account.

I received All Summer Long by Dorothea Benton Frank compliments of William Morrow Publishers, a division of Harper Collins Publishers in exchange for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation, aside from a free copy of this novel in exchange for my personal honest unbiased opinion. I absolutely LOVED this novel. From the catty arguments between the rich friends who show up on these excursions, to the far fetched things Bob decides to spend his money on. It's like living vicariously through this novel what it might be like to either have that kind of money or simply be able to enjoy it from those who do. I love the relationship that Nick and Olivia have as well because at the heart of it all, they have what works, and it shows that money can't buy it all. I would rate this one 4 out of 5 based on my rating system as there is some profanity used in this novel that might offend readers. Without that, it would be a 5 out of 5 stars.

For more information about All Summer Long, Dorothea Benton Frank or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

All Summer Long by Dorothea Benton Frank

You can find Dorothea Benton Frank on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on All Summer Long, please visit William Morrow's website. 

iCooker 4 Sided Cheese Grater

I love getting new products to try out. As a mom of two daughters and a very busy husband who travels extensively for work, I am always on the look out for new products to try that might in fact make a difference in the work, busy moms and wives are challenged to undertake.

iCooker has come out with a smaller version of the 4 Sided Cheese Grater. It has on each of the 4 sides, a slicer, a zester, a fine up and down grater and your standard grater. Not only that it measures about 10 inches high, is stain-less steel and for the me, the best part is a life time warranty. Men have their Craftsman line of tools and for women, I am always on the hunt for lifetime warranty products.

Not only does this grate cheese, like Parmesan and zest your citrus fruits, but you can even use it for chocolate to make all those fancy chocolate swirls, and even to grate nuts, slice pepperoni for pizza. I love that it fits on the top shelf of your dishwater and is super easy to clean. For me, having young girls and teens, sometimes, bigger is not always better. This is the perfect size for anyone to use and be comfortable with. The compact size also allows it to fit in most places your standard size grater doesn't. The handle is comfortable and it sits on a rubber base to prevent sliding.

I received iCooker's 4 Sided Box Cheese Grater compliments of the VIP Power Club in exchange for my honest review and did not receive any monetary compensation to write a favorable review. This review is my own personal opinion of how well this worked in my home. For me, this product worked far better than I had imagined and like the all-in-in compatibility coupled with a life time warranty. For that this one rates a 5 out of 5 stars and the price point is amazing.

For more details on where to purchase your iCooker 4-Sided Box Cheese Grater, please click on the link below:

iCooker 4-Sided Box Cheese Grater on Amazon.com

The Second Half

It seems like their entire life has been for this moment, a time for a new chapter and a new beginning for Mona and Kenneth Sorenson. Now that their children are grown and have families of their own, they are ready to begin retirement and make those plans that they have put off until now. But when Steig, their oldest son receives word that he is about to be deployed overseas temporarily as a single day for some unknown mission, he can only turn to his parents to help take care of his two children.

While it may have to put a temporary hold on their retirement plans, they know that they will take the two children. Where else can they go. Their mother abandoned them all, years ago and as much as they are eager to begin a new chapter in their own life, Mona and Kenneth accept the challenge they believe God has for them at this time. This will mean a whole new adjustment for all of them becoming initially full time parents again. Two children who had never stayed with their grandparents by themselves; there had always been parents along. Two full-time children, not just visiting and going home. Dear Lord, how are we ever going to do...to what, Mona wasn't sure.

It will also be a huge adjustment for  ten-year-old Melinda and five-year-old Jake, who would be leaving their dad behind to live with their grandparents, now full time. Not just visiting when Dad was home on fishing trips or during holidays, but until he came back. If he came back at all. So why can't they stay with their mom, Angela? They would do well to spend some time with their mom, I mean what kid wouldn't want to stay and get to know their mom again. One thing for sure, it's going to take a whole lot of adjusting on all their ends.

I received The Second Half by Lauraine Snelling compliments of Faith Words, a division of Hachette Book Groups in exchange for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of the novel in exchange for my personal and honest opinion. As I am nearing the end of my own child rearing, I can sense what Mona and Kenneth would be going through. Wanting to finally have that alone time with the person you've been married to for years would be something I would be planning and anticipating only to have a monkey wrench thrown into the mix. Not knowing if this would be a temporary thing or a permanent one if Steig doesn't return from his deployment is also something you have to evaluate as well. Something to be said, for plans that work out according to God's and not ours can be found in this charming summer novel. I'd rate this one a 4 out of 5 stars.

For more information about The Second Half, Lauraine Snelling or where you can preorder a copy of this novel today due out in July of 2016, please click on the links below:

The Second Half by Lauraine Snelling

You can find Lauraine Snelling on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on The Second Half, please visit Faith Word's website. 

Through the Shadows

"We all suffer our own chains. The Lord holds out the gift of new life, but many turn Him away, not trusting the offer." (pg 201).

In the latest and third novel in the Golden Gate Chronicles Series, Karen Barnett takes readers back into historical San Francisco just after the 1906 earthquake and fire that subsequently leveled most of the city, in Through the Shadows. Elizabeth King is the last and youngest daughter to leave home in order that she might get out from under her mother's controlling interest in her life. She is struggling to come to terms with all the property investments her father had made prior to his death, that has left them financially strapped. Now that the earthquake and fire leveled those investment holdings she can't understand why some insurance companies are offering to pay their claims on some, but interestingly enough not on any of her father's property. Without it, they will face financial ruin.

She involves herself in helping Donaldina Cameron with managing the Missions House, that takes in abandoned Chinese children that have found their way into prostitution and have no way out. She is hired to be their sewing teacher to enable them to learn a life skill that will offer them a future once they leave the home. She isn't sure she is ready to face her own shadowed past that caused her to leave behind her chance as a concert pianist. All she knows is that she must find a way to atone for her sins of the past in an effort to please God and sooth her own guilty conscience. No one must ever know.

Up and coming attorney Charles McKinley has a bright future ahead of him, working under his Uncle Silas' law firm. Unfortunately it will be starting at the bottom even though his name guarantees him a leg up in the firm. His first task is to bring the paperwork to the King family to ensure them that Silas has done everything but the insurance companies won't settle on the property claims Mr. King had purchased. He hopes to put an end to all their endless phone calls into the law firm for a meeting, something he has avoided doing. Now Charles hopes he can live up to the McKinley name. He just doesn't expect to fall for Elizabeth when she answers the door and the news he has to give her isn't something he is looking forward to doing. He only wishes he had better news for the King family.

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I received Through the Shadows by Karen Barnett compliments of Abingdon Press and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation, aside from a free copy of the novel in exchange for my honest and personal evaluation. I have been waiting for this novel since starting the Golden Gate Chronicle series! I was not disappointed. The story surrounding Donaldina Cameron is based on fact and her mission to help the struggling Chinese orphans is admirable. Again it is something missing from our history books and one I delighted in learning more about through this novel. I love Elizabeth King who is afraid of dealing with her past, tries to work out salvation on her own through her good works, but she will discover, that is not what God intended when He offers true forgiveness. I'd rate this one a 4.5 out of 5 stars and Discussion Questions are included that are perfect for book clubs.

For more information about Through the Shadows, Karen Barnett or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Through the Shadows by Karen Barnett

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Chasing Grace

Sometimes you have hope when you pop in a DVD after viewing the trailer and truly look forward to a great movie. Other times, you wind up disappointed, that perhaps the best scenes of said movie were all combined in the trailer. That is the case with Chasing Grace by Catalyst Pictures. Now on DVD courtesy of Word Films, this is the story of one pastor's family and how they handle the grief and loss that comes when their daughter Grace is accidentally shot when she finds the gun her uncle Carter (David Temple) had brought to her birthday party. The uncle was just released from jail by his brother and pastor Jonathan Matheson (Michael Joiner), and had passed out in the family home when the tragedy happened.

Now each member of the family processes their grief in very different ways. Jonathan picks up drinking to bypass the pain same as his brother and father. He tries to hide it from his wife and board members of his church but soon even those lies are brought to lie with very profound circumstances. His wife Angela (Ashlee Payne), buries her feelings in trying to get the family back to normal as quickly as possible which leaves her in dark depression that even counseling can't seem to help. Her two remaining sons, Christopher, the oldest, has to fend off bullies at school and finds solace following in his father's footsteps to see how alcohol might help ease the pain. He soon finds himself in jail. While the youngest, David struggles to understand just what is happening to his family and how he can try to help.

I received Chasing Grace by Catalyst Pictures compliments of Word Films and Edify Media Inc for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation, aside for a free copy of this DVD in exchange for my personal evaluation either favorable or not. I have to say, I was not that impressed. The story line is boring and the pace of the film moves so slowly, you find yourself wondering just how much longer this film can drag the story out. Each character's evolution into grief in so slow paced, you simply wish they'd get it over with, so you can find other things to do. While the run time on this is 96 minutes, anything longer than a hour is beyond brutal. I had to keep trying to find a way to convince myself to finish this in order to see how it might all end up. You have a pastor trying to convince and manipulate the local police to take vengeance on his brother in any viable means possible even killing him if need be. While I understand processing grief is different for everyone, I think the point of finding forgiveness is so missing until the final moments, that most people would turn it off before getting that far. These are not characters you feel any kind of connection with and therefore are missing that factor of wanting to know how it all turns out for any of them. For me, this one was a 3 out of 5 stars in my opinion, and even that might be a bit generous. This is just my opinion but others might have a different one than what I posted here.

For more information about Chasing Grace, Word Films or where you can pick up a copy of this DVD today, please click on the links below:

Chasing Grace by Catalyst Pictures and Word Films

You can find Word Films on Facebook to stay up to date on all the latest film projects.

You can find Chasing Grace at your favorite Christian retailers or from Amazon.