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. 

The Wedding Chapel

"I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper and not harm you," says the Lord, "plans for a hope and a future." ~ Jeremiah 29:11

In Rachel Hauck's latest novel, The Wedding Chapel, this scripture is extremely important for the characters in this novel. Each of them are interconnected by a series of events from the pasts and secrets that were kept out of spite and jealous but ultimately would be used for good. Jimmy Westbrook, or "Coach" as he is known by his students is one hard working man. He is a man of integrity and faith believing in the commitment he made one night just before he shipped off to the war. To love the only woman there would ever be for him, a girl he first fell in love with just by seeing her picture as she was slated to arrive to live with her cousin Clem, Jimmie's best friend, along with her sister Peg. They left behind a war that claimed the life of their parents and were looking to start over again someplace where war didn't seem so real.

Taylor Branson, an up and coming photographer, living in New York along with her newly married husband Jack are struggling to find their way forward in their new life together as husband and wife. Their whirlwind romance coupled feelings from their childhood living in Hearts Bend, Tennessee and fate brought them together on the streets of New York for a second chance. They both believed it could work, but also figured if it didn't there would be no real loss if they simply chose to walk away. But now that they are back at work, they are spending less and less time together and fail to communicate their true feelings to one another and instead let actions dictate their words. Taylor and Jack begin to wonder to themselves if they have made a big mistake in getting married. They are both trapped by feelings from their past that neither of them want to confront.

Yet when a photo shoot takes Taylor back to Heart's Bend to photograph an old wedding chapel on the land owned by Jimmie Westbrook, Taylor is brought full circle into a life she never dreamed would be possible. Besides taking the photos for work, she can't help but feel pulled by the feelings that this wedding chapel carries a life and spirit of its own and one she can't help but feel pulled into. But God has a bigger plan in mind as he brings the past, present and future together and those involved that desperately need the healing power of forgiveness and acceptance to become all that He imagined they could be. It's never too late for a second chance at life and at love.

I received The Wedding Chapel by Rachel Hauck compliments of Thomas Nelson Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation, aside from a free copy of this book, in exchange for my honest review. I've been a huge fan of Rachel's novels since picking up my first and now I simply need to see her name on the cover for me to pick it up. I've never been disappointed. I love the story between Jimmie and Colette the best, to see someone work so hard to show someone how much he truly loves them and holds on to his faith that one day God will restore to him what believes is truly meant to be. I found myself walking around the dusty walls of the old wedding chapel as Rachel describes it and feeling a sense of holiness and promise there and was thrilled at how it all came to a conclusion. For me this one was worthy of all 5 out of 5 stars as the book toggles between present day and the past to convey the stories of the characters lives. A Discussion Guide is included at the conclusion of this book that is perfect for book clubs.

For more information about The Wedding Chapel, Rachel Hauck or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

The Wedding Chapel by Rachel Hauck

You can find Rachel Hauck on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on The Wedding Chapel, please visit Thomas Nelson's website. 

Hand Me Down Princess

"Nothing like being a hand-me-down Princess.

The words mocked Jessabelle over and over as she stared at her reflection in the mirror.

Hand-me-down.

Passed over.

Rejected.

Unwanted.

In less than an hour she would become Princess Jessabelle of Mevendia, wife of Prince Malachi, second in lie for the throne. Not because he wanted to marry her, but because Crown Prince William had rejected her.

Twice.

Prince Malachi only upheld his family's end of the marriage contract because her father had saved King Antonio's life when they were teens.

Under no circumstance would Prince Malachi ever had chosen plain, mousy Jessabelle on his own. It was probably just as well the Crown Prince refused to marry her. She wouldn't have wanted to be queen. Every little girl dreamed of being a princess, right? Most girls wouldn't be sitting in a bedroom in a house provide for her family by the groom wondering if she could climb out the window. Would anyone notice?  Guards had been posted on the grounds to protect the future princess, but she doubted anyone cared enough to sneak in and try to get pictures of her or kidnap her. No one even knew who she was. Would any of them care if she snuck out? Would anyone even realize it was her if it weren't for the wedding gown?" (pg1-2).

In the first novel of the Brides of Belles Montague Series, Carol Moncado has written such a wonderful story in Hand Me Down Princess. Even my 16-year-old daughter was immediately drawn to it when it arrived. I believe it conveys that age old struggle all women face, of doubting their own self worth in comparison to others. We never feel we measure up and in this case, Jessabelle, who has been promised to marry a man she has never even met or seen before as a way of paying back a debt between the two fathers of the wedding party, mostly to ensure that Jessabelle is provided for as her own father faces his own failing health.

Thankfully Prince Malachi has no intention of following in the royal footsteps of his father and committing the infidelity that has caused problems between his own parents but embarrassed the royal house as well with the affair. Even though he has never met Jessabelle, his own faith in God will help guide him in ensuring his fidelity to her despite the compromising and lacking wedding vows of old and he will spend his life making sure she feels as worthy as any princess should. He just hopes she will give him the chance to prove himself worthy in her eyes. The only problem is the friendship he has shared with Lizbeth who believed one day that they might be married.

I received Hand Me Down Princess by Carol Moncado compliments of CANDID Publications and Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation, aside from a free copy of the book in exchange for my honest review. This is such a great novel and I love how Carol took both of her characters, much like how Jesus romances us all to show us our own worthiness despite what the world has to offer. How could one not fall in love with these two! Jessabelle is flawed and struggling, but strong in her own right to do what is required even if she isn't the slightest bit comfortable being in the public eye and I love the patience and compassion that Malachi shows Jessabelle in waiting for her feelings to develop before pushing her for anything more. Now I can't wait for more in this series!!! For me, this one rates a 4.5 out of 5 stars.

For more information about Hand Me Down Princess, Carol Moncado or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Hand Me Down Princess by Carol Moncado

You can find Carol Moncado on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Hand Me Down Princess, please visit Christian Fiction Blog Alliance's Book Tour Page. 

Refuge of the Heart - Giveaway and Review

Looking for an exceptional romance novel with a Christmas theme that is a bit extraordinary? I would suggest you pick up Refuge of the Heart by Ruth Logan Herne. This is a heartwarming story of a Chechnian refugee that has escaped her war torn country and is seeking to find a fresh start for herself and her sister Anna here in America thanks to the goodwill of a local church as her sponsor. Even though it is difficult, Magdelena Serida knows that in time, she will earn her doctor's degree and find a new life in a better neighborhood and will be able to afford better clothes than they have now. She knows that most people wouldn't understand her past and how difficult it was to watch her entire family taken by Russian militants while the women were sold into slavery. That is the life Lena has left behind and one she hopes she can leave in the past.

Yet God is about to intervene in their lives in a most profound way all thanks to a flat tire, a snow covered night and an encounter with Mitch Sanderson, the district attorney. Mitch had hoped that the woman and child he had seen walking in the cold and snow were not the same people who would soon see the flat tire on the run down car, but they were. As a caring and compassionate man, he knew that he could not drive home without seeing to their safety and getting their flat tire changed. But God didn't want it to be simply that easy for any of them, and when the spare tire turned out to be bad as well, Anna, Lena and Mitch would have to spend time together waiting out the purchase of new tires while they grabbed a bite to eat. It is through Lena's eyes that Mitch sees life in a truly remarkable way as the Christmas season approaches. One full of gratitude and appreciation instead of expectation and it is just the change he needs in his own life after losing his wife and unborn son in a car accident. Perhaps perspective is a better choice in what he needs.

I received Refuge of The Heart by Ruth Logan Herne compliments of Franciscan Media for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation, aside from a free copy of the book,  for a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own. This is such an incredible feel good story of love, forgiveness, redemption and gratitude and thus the reason for it being an exceptional choice for those looking for more than simply another Christmas romance. It's a perfect reminder of what many of us in the United States never consider as we watch many war refugees fleeing from their country without knowing all the why's of what has happened to them, yet we judge them based on what we hear instead. For me this one, easily garners a 5 out of 5 in my opinion and one that will be added to my permanent library to be read each time at Christmas.

For more information about Refuge of the Heart, Ruth Logan Herne or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Refuge of the Heart by Ruth Logan Herne

You can find Ruth Logan Herne on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Refuge of the Heart, please visit Franciscan Media's website. 

For more tour dates on Refuge of the Heart and to visit other reviewer's, please click on the links below:

• Refuge of the Heart Blog Tour:
• 10/12/2015- Spiritual Woman
• 10/13/2015-  Reviews from the Heart
• 10/14/2015- Singing Librarian Books + Franciscan Mom
• 10/15/2015- The Engrafted Word + Christian Chick's Thoughts
• 10/16/2015- Reading is my SuperPower + Reconciled To You

Now for the best part, thanks to the generosity of Franciscan Media, they are offering a giveaway copy of Refuge of The Heart to one lucky follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart. Here's all you need to do to enter:

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

2. Be a resident of the US or have a US mailing address. No P.O. Boxes please.

3. Leave me a comment below, telling me why you'd love to win a copy of this book along with your email address. You can use the words (at) and (dot) instead of the symbols. Without an email address I have no way of notifying you if you're the lucky winner.

The giveaway will end on Oct 23 and I will notify the winner by email at that time.

Firefly Summer

Fall is here and thus the perfect time to spend reminiscing about summer, romance and of course some fireflies and cowboys! Kathleen Y'Barbo's latest novel Firefly Summer is exactly what you need for sitting by the fire, on a cold crisp morning and curling up with an unforgettable romance that will leave you sighing by the time you get to the final page.

Sessa Chambers lives in the very small but quaint town of Sugar Pines, Texas where anything that happens is well known by anyone in town. She is the sole owner of Chambers Restorations, that works with the restoration of antique carousel horses. She hopes that someday soon she might just land the biggest contract of her life, working with the Smithsonian Museum. But her life soon takes an unexpected turn when a woman named Skye, shows up and tells her that her granddaughter, Pansie needs a home. She can't take care of her and doesn't want to leave her in a foster care home and hopes that Sessa will care for her til she can make things right in her own life. Her son Ross, wayward and a bit of a prodigal right now doesn't seem aware that he even has a daughter and she hopes he might one day return home to care for her.

Sessa agrees even though she isn't prepared to care for a young baby, but knows that if God has made this arrangement he will see her through to the end. What she doesn't expect is to learn that her son, Ross is murdered in an apparent robbery attempt on a doctor. That doctor had no other choice but to defend himself and that meant taking a life he vowed he would never do. After serving time in prison for a year, Dr. Trey Brown is released but even though he had been found innocent, he knows he may never practice medicine again. He must find a way to make amends to the mother of the boy he killed even though it was in self defense. What he doesn't plan on is falling in love with her along the way.

I received Firefly Summer from Kathleen Y'Barbo compliments of Hometown Romance and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review, aside from a free copy of the book, and the opinions found her are my own personal honest ones. I've always wanted to capture fireflies in a jar, much like the memories Sessa shares of her doing that with Ross and soon finds a legacy in doing that not only with Skye but also Pansie and Trey as well. Sometimes God is like that. He will take bittersweet moments and cast them into new light and bring about such goodness from them like He does in the characters of this story that find that their common thread the unites them and brings them into a new future. I only wish some pie recipes might be tucked inside the covers of this book as it would make for a wonderful addition. I would give this one a 4 out of 5 stars in my opinion and have always have a cowboy romance tucked inside this book lovers heart.

For more information about Firefly Summer, Kathleen Y'Barbo or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

Firefly Summer by Kathleen Y'Barbo

You can find Kathleen Y'Barbo on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

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

Every Breath You Take

I love it when I read a novel in which the ending seems to be right in front of you. Like you have it all figured out before you get to the end how it will all work out. Its the way of most novels. Then the rug gets completely pulled up from underneath it all and you're left wondering, "Well that is not how I thought it would work out." You find yourself debating whether or not it was a good book after all, but is that really what is going on, you're simply mad cause it didn't go the way you wanted. That is just what I got when I finished with Every Breath You Take from Travis Thrasher.

You can tell he simply loves music, because I find them scattered throughout his novels. I think my husband and him would be great friends. In this novel referenced quite a bit with The Police, Sting, and Cold Play, we find two soul mates that are no longer together despite the fact that they work in every way possible. Kayla Rowe, 26, has had enough. When she quits her high paying job in marketing on the whim of following whatever dreams she has, her friends think she has lost it. She simply tells them she can't waste another 5 to 10 years doing the same thing with the same results but no passion for what she is doing. It may have to do with the fact her boyfriend Ryan has proposed to her, and while she said yes, she can't help but remember the one man she gave her heart away to so many years ago. That man that she will always love. She just isn't sure if it is Billy Harris, the man she was once engaged to, or her father that she lost when she was 2.

All Kayla knows is that she has to make some hard decisions before her wedding and as much as she would love to talk to her mother, that isn't going to happen. Her mother walked out on them when she was born and never looked back. So she takes her conversations to her father's grave and wonders what he would say if he was alive. Their bond seems to transcend the spiritual. Thomas Rowe, Kayla's father has been well aware of what has been happening in her life from his seat in heaven and is suddenly provided with a unique opportunity to visit his daughter one final time. The catch is, he can't tell her that he is her father and he must help Kayla come to a decision of what is best for her despite being locked in a past she can't seem to fight free from.

I received Every Breath You Take by Travis Thrasher compliments of the author himself for my honest review. Aside from the free copy of this novel, I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are my own personal ones. I loved this story because as a parent, there is a bond that you have with your child that transcends human understanding and logic. Love simply does not end, because someone is no longer with you. It is the legacy that we take with us long after they have left. The bond between Kayla and her father, besides a passion for music and that unconditional love that simply accepts things as they are without trying to influence any chance. That comes across all the way through this novel even though the ending was not what I thought it would be. I applaud Travis for throwing that twist in. I would have done it as well even though I didn't like experiencing it on the other end from a reader's perspective instead of a writer's one. I get why it was done and love it. For me this one was a well deserved 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

For more information about Every Breath You Take, Travis Thrasher or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Every Breath You Take from Travis Thrasher

You can find Travis Thrasher on Facebook to stay up to date on all his latest novels.

To pick up a copy of Every Breath You Take, stop by Travis Thrashers's website. 

Goodbye, Magnolia

I am such a huge sucker for Hallmark Romance Movies and most weekends, you will find me watching the latest one just before my day comes to an end. Partly because I believe in happily ever after and love at first sight. Such is the case in my own life, and I've often said my fairytale came true when I met my husband. That is why I love a great romance novel. Guess what I found another amazingly talented author who knows just how to write a great romance too, Krista Noorman. In her latest novel, Goodbye, Magnolia, she takes readers into a college life between Maggie James and Simon Walker where they met at a Christian college in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in a photography class of all places. It is where she was given the nickname Canon by Simon, and they would have made quite the pair except that Simon was more of what most girls would have called a player. With good lucks, a knockout smile and more charm than a girls bracelet, Simon had more than enough girls interested in him throughout college, and it was enough to keep Maggie far away from the likes of one like Simon.

Years later, as she is beginning her own wedding photography business in Hastings, she runs into Simon once again. It seems that his Uncle Pete, wants to give it a go at the photography business but unlike Maggie's photography style of capturing those once in a lifetime moments, Simon's is more your formal sittings. In fact, he is so sure, that they are at opposite sides of the wedding photography spectrum, he invites Maggie to help co-promote one another's business based on what each of their clients wants. It will garner them more publicity than if they go it alone, but Maggie believes she's wise to Simon's ways to put her out of business. That fact is even more solidified when her two friends, agree to hire Simon as their photographer as well as Maggie to get the best of both photography worlds.

Maggie is so sure of everything she believes about just who Simon is, that she purposely goes out of her way to make sure they don't work together any more than they need to, but lately it seems like every photo shoot she has scheduled, Simon is right there with her. Coincidence or merely healthy competition? All Maggie knows is based on her past love life and heart break, she can NEVER trust another man especially one like Simon to ever get involved in her life. Will Maggie be resolved to always be the photographer at someone else's wedding or is there hope for love in her future where she doesn't expect it? Time will tell!

I received Goodbye, Magnolia by Krista Noorman compliments of the author herself for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and aside from the free copy of the book, the opinions contained here are strictly my own honest and personal ones. This definitely needs to be picked up by Hallmark Movie Channel because it has all the right elements to make a successful movie. There are those moments of comedy when things don't exactly go off as planned, especially when it comes to capturing the perfect moment on film, to those tender heart felt moments where you are hoping against hope that they two will finally fall head over heels in love, and I applaud Krista's efforts to making this well worth the wait. Along the way, you meet some amazing characters such as Sarah, Maggie's assistant, DeDe, the wedding planner with all the right contacts, and even a guest appearance from Michael Bublè! Well worth every single one of the 5 out of 5 stars and I hope, we might see a sequel out of Krista before too long!

For more information about Goodbye, Magnolia, Krista Noorman or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Goodbye, Magnolia by Krista Noorman

You can find Krista Noorman on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest novels.

Once Upon a Summertime

I am so blessed to be able to read Melody Carlson's latest novel Once Upon a Summertime, before the closure of summer for me. What an incredible series this is going to be and I can't wait for the next novel in this series! For those looking for an exceptional romance, pick this one up! You won't be disappointed.

Anna Gordon has always had a heart for hospitality, and thus the reason for getting her degree in hotel management. Having lived a rough childhood, living on the streets at times, she relished those moments when they would find a place to stay in a motel. She tried her best at those times, to make it the best it good be, despite what her parents did, and the very reason why she had such a desire for those guests that would come to a place to stay, wanting to ensure that it was truly a great experience.

Yet she never dreamed after all those years of attending school, that she would wind up working at the Value Lodge and living on her grandmother's couch. While all her other friends, were busy living it up at exotic locations managing exceptional hotels, she was questioning if this is as good as her life would get. Was this what her degree would be used for? Not to mention that the Value Lodge was beyond run down and the employees lazy and without the same desire for seeing the potential of what could be. So when an offer to move to New York and help manage one of the high end newly renovated hotels becomes available, Anna believes God might just have a plan in mind if she is willing to place her faith in Him.

She meets a long time friend from home, Sean O'Neil, who most girls had crushes on in high school has now been appointed as the day manager. The two eventually realize that they need a friend while trying to make their way in an unfamiliar city, but if sparks begin to fly, they both could be out of a job when the hotel mandates a no romance or dating policy among it's employees or guests. But all Anna needs is a chance to prove herself worthy so she can move on to bigger and better goals and New York right now offers her the best chance at a new life, she had only dreamed of before.

I received Once Upon A Summertime by Melody Carlson compliments of Revell Publishing and Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of the book for my honest and personal review. This was such a great novel, that I read it in one sitting. I was completely lost in the world of what it is like to manage a hotel, and being a huge dreamer of one day opening a Bed and Breakfast, this one will appealed to me. Readers even get a sneak peek at the second novel in this series, even though it is unnamed at this time, I can't wait to add this one to my personal collection at home. For me, this one well deserves all 5 out of 5 stars.

For more information about Once Upon A Summertime, Melody Carlson or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Once Upon A Summertime by Melody Carlson

You can find Melody Carlson on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Once Upon A Summertime, please visit Christian Fiction Blog Alliances, book tour page. 

A Sapphire Season

Who doesn't love a great novel of a romantic love that simply can not be because of circumstances that prevent the two ill fated from becoming a couple? Much like a Jane Austen novel right? One of my favorites being Pride and Prejudice. In A Sapphire Season, from author Lynn Morris, we get a sneak peek into the lives of Lady Mirabella Tirel who is searching for just the right prospective suitor now that she is of age. Never does she ever consider the feelings of her close friend, Sir Giles Knyvet, her childhood friend because that is not a match that either her parents or even Giles for that matter would consider. But the heart knows what the heart wants, and as much as it pains Sir Giles, he must take a back seat and do what he can to ensure that Mirabella finds just the right man in her life, wishing that is was him instead.

Soon the two childhood friends find themselves pulled in opposite directions as three possible suitors appear on the horizon with the hopes of catching Mirabella's heart, while Sir Giles can only stand by the sidelines and watch. He on the other hand has to deal with an outstanding debt of his own family and thus the reason why he can not pursue Mirabella. It is something that demands his full attention if he is to ever have any hope of convincing her to marry him instead, but will he have enough time to right matters before Mirabella makes a decision over whom to marry. Now that she is turning twenty- two, Mirabella knows if she doesn't find someone soon, her hopes for finding a successful match will simply be out of the question. No one will want to marry her if she continues to wait any longer.

Since having her heart broken once before, she has long given up hope that one can ever hope to marry for love, so she hopes that if she can find a suitable match, she might learn to love the man she marries one day. This comes at a time, where society and social standing is what is important and even though Mirabella's parents support her choices, they also have to do what is best based on the time period in which this novel is written, a far different one from the world women have today.

I received A Sapphire Season by Lynn Morris compliments of Faith Words. a division of Hachette Book Groups for my honest opinion. I did not receive any monetary compensation outside a copy of this novel for my honest review and the opinions expressed are simply my own. Fans of traditional regencies will love this novel. It was a first for me from author Lynn Morris and I look forward to more novels from her in the near future. In my opinion I would rate this one a 4 out of 5 stars and even fans of Dowtown Abbey would enjoy this one as well! There is a group reading guide at the conclusion which is perfect for book groups!

For more information about A Sapphire Season, Lynn Morris or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

A Sapphire Season by Lynn Morris

You can find Faith Words on Facebook to stay up to date on all their latest novels.

To read more reviews on A Sapphire Season, please visit Faith Word's website.

Crazy Little Thing Called Love

Looking for a romance that is about to catch you by storm? You might just want to grab hold of Beth K. Vogt's newest novel, Crazy Little Thing Called Love. This is the first novel in the Wedding Destination series and I can tell you, you are in for a bumpy ride that is worth it from beginning to end. Take Vanessa Hollister, a paramedic who is trying to figure out how to ensure marriage number two doesn't end up like her marriage right out of high school. Being a military brat, she was used to moving quite a bit and Logan enabled her to shake those "being the new kid" feelings in high school. She also just happened to fall in love. But often times, immaturity between the two develop as they struggle to adapt to married life with different expectations of what they both needed. Two years later they were divorced and now with her upcoming nuptials, Vanessa doesn't want a repeat. She wants to stand up for what she wants in this wedding and subsequent marriage.

Her current love of her life, ER doctor, Ted Topliff, who believes in making things as efficient as possible. I mean why not look for wedding destinations that coincide with medical conferences to help complete your medical education requirement at the same time. Not to mention the location he's pretty hooked on just happens to be the very same place, that Vanessa and Logan got married, Destin, Florida. What girl just wouldn't be thrilled with that request? Oh did I mention, Ted suggests that Vanessa use the week of vacation she has to leave a week early and make all the wedding preparations just perfect for when he arrives? Sounds like a true winner in my mind.

Luckily for the two of them, God has another plan. When a hurricane hits the area, it brings not only a great storm, but a storm chaser, as Logan returns once more and at this time, Ted isn't around. Now that time has had a chance to change and mature them, is there still time for a second chance at love? Maybe God's got a bigger plan in mind beside a hurricane to blow some new chances into their lives. Too bad they both arrive at the same storm shelter as well. Like I said, you're in for a very bumpy ride but so worth it at the very end..

I received Crazy Little Thing Called Love by Beth K. Vogt compliments of Litfuse Publicity and Howard Books for my honest review of this novel. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are strictly my own. Fans of Sweet Home Alabama will absolutely love this one as we have a similar situation brewing on the gulf coast of Florida. What we see by the conclusion of this novel is that sometimes the plans we believe are perfect in our life, are quite different from the plans God has. Trust me, you'll want to go with what God has in mind every time. His plans are always perfect in His timing if we are willing to simply willing to let go of our ideas and accept His plans. Most of the time, it would work much easier if we simply got out of the way first. This is going to be one series I am going to want to finish all the way to the end. 5 stars all the way. There is also a discussion guide and some interesting author questions included at the end.

For more information about Crazy Little Thing Called Love, Beth K. Vogt or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Crazy Little Thing Called Love by Beth K. Vogt

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

To read more reviews on Crazy Little Thing Called Love, please visit Litfuse Publicity' book tour page. 

The Lost Garden

When I was growing up, I loved the story of the Secret Garden, not sure if it has to do with the secrecy of having a place you can go to that no one else does or if there is something about watching the things you plant grow and flourish into a thing of beauty, but lovers of that premise will love the newest novel from Katharine Swartz, The Lost Garden. It parallels two different time periods so it's hard to classify it as a contemporary or historical, because it is both.

One is contemporary present day involving the lives of Marin Ellis, who is now the caretaker of her half sister Rebecca after the death of her father and his second wife. Together they are embarking on a journey of sorts between finding a common place in their new relationship together that was thrust upon them by circumstance. Not having a starting place aside from having the same father, the age differences impact them as well, with Marin having to try to find a way to be not really a mother to Rebecca but one of authority in a way without the title, and at the same time, becoming a friend and sister as well. Their common ground at this point is when Rebecca insists on a clean start for her own life, as she is now a bit of a loner and doesn't want the stigma attached to her as something to be pitied by her friends at school and hopes for a new outlook on life with the purchase of a vicar's cottage in the village of Goswell, where they find a garden locked almost hidden behind a wall that has been clearly neglected.

As the two make plans to find a way to bring life back into their garden, they discover a long history to the ones that originally created it from the 1900's, when we learn that Eleanor Sanderson, who was the daughter of the Goswell's vicar who created this garden in an attempt to find healing and a new way of life after losing her brother Walter during the war. It will be a story that is timeless as it crosses the boundary of two different lives and two different periods in history that shows that life can begin again if you are willing to put the effort into what you value as important in your life. It can be quite life changing in remarkable ways.

I received The Lost Garden by Katharine Swartz compliments of Lion Hudson and Kregel Publications for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for my honest review aside from a free copy of this novel and the opinions contained are strictly my own. I absolutely loved this novel because I have found myself to be quite the gardener as well, and successfully have created two very different gardens over the past 10 years. For me, they are a place to understand what is really important, a place of birth, growth and beauty, and that is what you find in the two stories between the Ellis's and Sanderson's that almost everyone can find something they can relate to! I would rate this one a 4 out of 5 stars in my opinion and look to future novels from Katharine Swartz in the future. The Lost Garden is the second book in the Tales from Goswell series and for me, I'll be looking for The Vicar's Wife, the first book in this series! Katharine Swartz is also the name for Kate Hewitt, if you can't find her.

For more information about The Lost Garden, Katharine Swartz, or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today.

The Lost Garden by Katharine Swartz

You can find Katharine Swartz/Kate Hewitt on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on The Lost Garden, please visit Kregel Publication's website. 

Two Hearts

When two people say I do, it's meant to last forever. That is precisely what Jaxon Tagget has had on his mind when he proposed to Annie, his high school sweetheart. Knowing the true intentions of his heart, he bypassed the expensive ring and opted for something made from his heart and from the heart of the land his lived on in Montana. Finding gold in a mine on his father's ranch, he decided the show Annie just how much he loved her and designed a ring specifically unique, one of a kind and one that would always let her know that he places her needs above his own. It was a token of more than their affection for one another.

Annie's mother, a product of divorce and her own failed marriage resolves to convince Annie, that Jax isn't worth it and only has his mind on one thing, the same thing as all men. She knows how wealthy the Tagget family is and the size of their cattle ranch, so when Annie shows her mother the ring Jax presented, she feels she is completely justified by her opinion of Jax's worth. If a man can afford anything, why did he settle for something homemade instead of buying her what she was worth. But like all well-meaning mothers, she believes if she bides her time, Annie will eventually gain enough money from the family. To her mother's displeasure, she accepts Jax's proposal and they marry despite all her objections.

Now Jax is well on his way to putting his mining degree to work as he is hired on by a Bolivian company that will require them to step away from their plans in Montana and move to South America, where Jax assures Annie, he plans to make good on attempts to start their newly married life and support her as any well-meaning husband should. But as we all know, real life isn't like fairy tales and soon trouble finds Jax much like the modern tale retelling of Joseph from the Bible who has to make some hard decisions about his newest employer and it might just be one that costs him everything in the end.

I received Two Hearts by James Eric Richey compliments of Jer Books and iRead Book Tours for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review outside of a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions contained here are strictly my own. This novel truly is an exceptional one in which you literally have a little bit of every genre thrown in, from romance, suspense, murder, and yes, a little bit of  fairy tale for good measure, but it works because the love between Jax and Annie isn't all tied up in a pretty bow. It is tested by fire, as they go through seeming difficult situations that test their relationship at every crossroads. I absolutely LOVED this one! The writing was engaging for the reader from the very beginning in a novel this size, so you simply don't want to put it down until you see how it will all turn out. Not all authors can master that level of intensity but I think James Richey did it well and with flair and style. I would definitely want to read more of his novels and thus a 4.5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

For more information about Two Hearts, James Eric Richey or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Two Hearts by James Eric Richey

You can find James Eric Richey on Facebook to stay up to date on all his latest books.

To read more reviews on Two Hearts, please visit iRead Book Tour page. 

A Love Like Ours

There is a connection that surpasses what most people believe when you find a treasured friend from your childhood that you can still fall in love with twenty years into the future. That is precisely what happens between Lyndie James and Jake Porter, who grew up together and were simply the very best of friends one could ever hope to have. But like all best friends, they move away to begin a life someplace else and those feelings you had for someone at 12 are beyond your control to keep them by your side forever. So when Lyndie moved away to California, Jake stayed at home on the Porter Ranch in Holley, Texas.

Now twenty years later, both still feel strongly for one another. Where at first letter writing enabled them to keep that connection when Lyndie moved away, those letters grew less and less until they finally stopped altogether and they both moved on in their lives. Lyndie continued to help her parents take care of her sister Mollie, who struggled with a long term disability that required constant care from those in her family that were more than willing to give unconditionally for her, knowing she would never see their faces, speak words of love to them, or even walk outside of a wheelchair, but Mollie showed her love in ways people could never understand. Lyndie believes God has given Mollie the gift of healing.

Jake isn't at all thrilled to find out Lyndie has moved back to Texas and even worse she wants to apply for the exercise rider on his ranch working under him. After leaving his tour of duty with the Marines and suffering from PTSD, Jake's wounds go far deeper than the scar on his face. He will never see himself as anything less than what Lyndie needs in a man. He only hopes he can convince his heart to keep the distance between them, even though those old familiar feelings are calling on his heart to feel again. Perhaps Lyndie can work some sort of miracle on him because he is as bad as his thoroughbred Silver Leaf who has lost his own desire to run. Can love heal them both?

I received A Love Like Ours by Becky Wade compliments of Bethany House Publishers and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are strictly my own. Growing up with horse racing most of my life and could relate to both Jake and Lyndie's situations. I love that Lyndie's determination to not give up on either Silver Leaf or Jake transitioned well in this novel. I have been head over heels with all the Porter boys stories since being introduced to them back in the first novel Undeniably Yours, and then in Meant to Be Mine, the second one. They are all uniquely different and truly tug at the romance lover's heart within us all to have that Happily Ever After ending. This one did not disappoint in any way and for that reason deserves all 5 out of 5 stars. A reader's discussion guide is included at the conclusion of this novel.

For more information about A Love Like Ours, Becky Wade or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

A Love Like Ours by Becky Wade

You can find Becky Wade on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on A Love Like Ours, please visit Litfuse Publicity's Book Tour Page.


Fall in love with Becky Wade's new book, A Love Like Ours, a story of healing, romance, and cowboys. A glimmer of the hope Jake thought he’d lost returns when Lyndie lands back in Texas, but fears and regrets still plague him. Will Jake ever be able to love Lyndie like she deserves, or is his heart too shattered to mend?

To celebrate the release of her new book, Becky is giving away a $100 cash card and a book-inspired prize pack!

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A $100 cash card
• A copy of A Love Like Ours
• A copy of the Secretariat DVD
• A scarf
• A dog-tag/cross keychain
• A pair of earrings
• A Scarf
• A Texas-shaped cutting board
• A Jake Porter mug

 

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 26th. Winner will be announced May 27th on Becky's site.

Chance at Loving You

When you take three very talented best-selling authors like Terri Blackstock, Candace Calvert and Susan May Warren and have them collaborate on three contemporary short romance stories and place them in one exception book, you have Chance at Loving You! This is such a beautiful collection of exceptional and heart-warming romance stories that offer the hope of redemption, the possibility of second chances and always following your heart despite the pain of the past. All of these stories do just that. This is a perfect book to pick up when you want a romance collection that will leaving you loving the stories and trying the recipes that concludes each one. Guaranteed to fill your heart and your stomach with love and culinary flavors!

Terri Blackstock takes the lead with For the Love of Money. Both Julie Sheffield, a waitress and Blake Adcock, an entrepreneur learn how difficult it can be to follow your dreams. Despite how much you might want them, God might have other ideas in mind when Blake loses everything but knows he can't stiff Julie and instead offers her an IOU along with half of a lottery ticket. Will they both win big or will money just cause more problems than either of them could possibly understand?

Candace Calvert whips up quite the delicious romance in The Recipe. Aimee Curran is about to see the reality of her dream of being a culinary winner of a vegan cooking contest when she realizes that the recipes of her mother's she had been relying on to help her win the contest, may have more to offer than the food she is trying to create and that might in fact save more than just the life of the seniors she works with. Is God cooking up something more than just food?

Finally Susan May Warren takes us for a spin with Hook, Line and Sinker which showcases Abigail Cushman and the man, Ross Springer she has always loved but never told him. Now they are faced off with a fishing challenge between their two ministry groups to see who can land the biggest catch over a three day trip. Will the odds be in her favor or does God have a bigger fish for her to catch in the process?

I received Chance of Loving You by Terri Blackstock, Candace Calvert and Susan May Warren compliments of Tyndale House Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this book for my review and the opinions are strictly my own. I simply can't wait to try each of the recipes that accompany these stories that will definitely stay with you long after you finish this romance collection. These are some of my favorite books because you truly get a taste of each of these best-selling authors all tucked into one sweet romance book. In this reader's heart, it definitely has earned a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

For more information about Chance of Loving You, Terri Blackstock, Candace Calvert or Susan May Warren, please click on the links below:

Chance of Loving You by Terri Blackstock, Candace Calvert and Susan May Warren

You can find Terri Blackstock on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest books.

You can find Candace Calvert on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest books.

You can find Susan May Warren on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest books.

How To Catch A Prince

"I pledge to you my love and fidelity, my honor and trust, to cherish you until death part us.

The heiress and the prince. They were meant to be. In love. Forever. They were going to make it, defeat the odds of wealth and power pulling a modern couple apart." (pg. 51).

I don't know of one woman who hasn't dreamed of some day even if it's only in her dreams of capturing the attention of a handsome prince. I guess we get that notion from all those fairy tales our parents read to us as a child, but best selling author Rachel Hauck has managed to captivate on that notion in a way that garners those fantasy dreams once again as an adult in her Royal Wedding Series of novels.

I mean who hasn't watched Princess Diana marry Prince Charles or even lately the marriage of Kate and William and hasn't in the back of her mind longed for that same dream. In her latest novel How to Catch a Prince, the third novel in the series, American heiress Corina Del Rey had managed to do just that, win the heart of Prince Stephen of Brighton. While they knew the implications of such a secret love and how it might impact their futures, love still prevailed and their wedding took place in secret just before Stephen was slated for deployment to Afghanistan.

When he returned however the secrets persisted and he told Corina that their wedding was a mistake. One that could very well cost him the future throne. It seemed there was more there than what he was willing to tell Corina so they parted and went their separate ways for the next five and a half years. When Stephen is confronted with a marriage certificate he believed was destroyed, he is told he is still legally married by his brother Nathaniel. He has to find Corina and manage to convince he to sign annulment papers to legally end the marriage they both believed was over. But Corina isn't about to give up that easily especially when she knows that Stephen can provide the answers to her brother Carlos' death when he served with Stephen during his deployment, something the government wants to keep covered up. Is all fair in love and war? You're about to find out!

I received How to Catch a Prince by Rachel Hauck compliments of Zondervan Publishers and Litfuse Publicity 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 the fairy tale series for women who love the idea that a happily ever after does in fact exist in real life. I have read this entire series from beginning to end and my hope is that it doesn't end with this novel. These have been too good to be true and one that I will be reading again and again. They are a permanent addition to my book collection and personal library. A Reader's Discussion Guide is included at the conclusion of this novel that is perfect for book clubs that would love to host this novel. In my opinion, this one is another home run and well deserving of all 5 out of 5 stars.

For more information about How to Catch a Prince, Rachel Hauck or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

How to Catch a Prince by Rachel Hauck

You can find Rachel Hauck on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on How to Catch a Prince, please visit Litfuse Publicity's book tour page.

An American heiress and a crown prince seem destined to be together. Will the devastation of war keep them apart forever? Find out in Rachel Hauck's new book, How to Catch a Prince. True love has a destiny all its own. With a little heavenly help, Prince Stephen and Corina embark on a journey of truth. But when the secrets are revealed, can they overcome, move forward, and find love again?

Enter to win a "royal" prize pack! 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A royal-themed Brighton charm bracelet
• 2 tickets to see the new Cinderella movie
• The Royal Wedding series (Once Upon a Prince, Princess Ever After, and How to Catch a Prince)

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 23rd. Winner will be announced March 24th on Rachel's blog.


{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

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. 

Navy Seal Noel

When the XO's daughter is abducted by what he believes is a drug cartel terrorists, Navy SEAL Will Gumble is asked to retrieve her. Knowing what is at risk to take on this off the record assignment will mean that Will will have no team to back him up or any authorization to act on behalf of the SEAL team to which he has been a part of. If he fails, it will undoubtedly mean the loss of his life, as well as that of Jessalynn McCoy. But it is a risk he is willing to take.

Jess was working as a bioscientist working on the effects of an airborne pathogen known as Morsyni. She was kidnapped and taken against her will to work on the project in a remote jungle. She has no idea where she is only that by doing this, millions will die if the pathogen is released into the air. Not to mention the facility where they expect her to do the work, is less than adequate. A high school science lab would offer more optimal conditions. She knows her father will do what he can to find a way to rescue her, so she tries to buy here time figuring out a way out of the highly guarded jungle compound. In fact the last person she believes will be coming would be Will.

After their tattered friendship that was broken when she was considering marrying his brother Sal, Jess decided to take up going to college and working on a degree to forget the man she had true feelings for. Only he decided to walk away from her and join the Navy. But that is just who shows up posed as an undercover scientist familiar with working with the Morsyni virus. Now between the two they will have just days to come up with a plan to figure out how to get the chemical and them to safety and back in the United States before it's too late.

I received Navy SEAL Noel by Liz Johnson compliments of the author for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions are strictly my own. This is the third book in the Men of Valor series from Liz Johnson and I have been blessed to read them all. This time the relationship between Jess and Will that we saw in the first novel A Promise to Protect has resurfaced once again to give closure to readers on the outcome of Jess and Will at last. I love how Liz Johnson executed this one and provided the outcome I was hoping for. The Love Inspired division of Harlequin Romance, gives readers the romance they are looking for in a Christian context. This one is the perfect size to tuck away in your purse to take with you whenever you find yourself with free time to read. For those of you that love a great action adventure with some Black Ops heroes along with the perfect touch of romance, you'll want to pick this one up. I rate this one a 4.5 out of 5 stars.

For more information about Navy SEAL Noel, Liz Johnson or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Navy SEAL Noel by Liz Johnson

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

Where Treetops Glisten

I really hated this novel this end, but no matter how long I took to read it, the end was inevitable. After I finished each story, I wanted so desperately to see a screenwriter take this to some big production company and make this one into a movie that I could only compare to It's A Wonderful Life if it were to make it on the big screen. Oh how I wish I had the money because I firmly believe we all need something like the stories tucked between the pages of the novel Where Treetops Glisten, a collaboration of three of the finest World War II authors I've ever read. Each of them as a stand alone author is truly a best selling author in their own right, but when you couple such talent, you are bound to capture something that truly transcends the ability to capture it all in words. I only hope I can do it justice as a book reviewer.

For anyone who loves WWII and romance set amid the backdrop of Christmas, then you will LOVE this collection. Each of the authors have agreed to take the children of the Turner family, one that lives in the small town of Lafayette, Indiana each set to one of three Christmas songs that were written or became popular during the war. They are each uniquely different but connected so that you can transition from one family members lives as they each share their story.

In White Christmas, Cara Putman showcases her talent with Abigail Turner, who is a recent widow trying to move forward in her life without her husband working for Glantz Candies, famous for their candy canes. She isn't looking for love and is trying to figure out where God is in her life. She meets a stranger on a bus one night and can see he is carrying some great burden on his shoulders even though he meets her eyes with a smile. She knows that helping others is the perfect way to get rid of the loneliness during Christmas and takes your mind off your own troubles. Is he the answer to her prayer?

I'll Be Home For Christmas by Sarah Sundin, was my favorite of the three because it felt like A Miracle on 34th Street with a WWII setting. Pete Turner, Abigail's brother, is on furlough for a month to celebrate Christmas with his family before heading back into service flight planes. He finds a lonely little girl, Linnie, standing outside a store window without her mother, and offers to help her find her way home after she explains she has wandered off, yet again. He wasn't planning on her mother being Grace Kessler, the little girl he used to bully when he was younger and by the look on Grace's face when she sees him, she has no plans on forgiving him even though he managed to bring her daughter home.

Finally Tricia Goyer takes a spin at Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas with Meredith or Merry Turner who has taken up training as a combat nurse in the Netherlands. She had hoped that she can find a way to mend her broken heart while patching up the wounded servicemen instead. But she can't help but wonder how she missed all the signs that pointed to the man she loved was a German spy. How can God redeem her broken heart while trying to mend the soldiers injured in war to send them home for the holidays?

I received Where Treetops Glisten by Cara Putman, Tricia Goyer and Sarah Sundin compliments of Litfuse Publicity and Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own. I know I will be rereading this one again as I sit back during the Christmas holiday and reminisce about WWII where so many men and women gave their lives as they continue to do so currently for the freedom and peace we all enjoy in countries far from home. The messages that can be found in each of these stories is about hope and love in the midst of adversity and I think Tricia Goyer summed it up the best with these words, "The thing about love is that it's slow to fade. It's not a bad thing. Love is meant to last." (pg 289). You can definitely tell the authors worked hard to keep their stories separate but connected in a way that truly defines who Abigail, Pete and Merry Turner are and the love they share with not only their family but with others around them. That is the true meaning behind Christmas is that love is meant to last just like Christ's love for us is eternal. Hands down a true 5 out of 5 stars and the perfect gift for the romantic or service men or women in your life for Christmas!

For more information about Where Treetops Glisten, Sarah Sundin, Tricia Goyer, Cara Putman or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Where Treetops Glisten by Tricia Goyer, Cara Putman or Sarah Sundin

You can find Tricia Goyer on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

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

You can find Cara Putman on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Where Treetops Glisten, please visit Litfuse Publicity's book tour page. 

A Grand Design

I've been a huge fan of the Quilts of Love Series, not just because each novel is based around the story of a quilt, but because you get a chance to meet new authors who are taking up the challenge to add to this amazing growing collection. In A Grand Design, Amber Stockton, takes her turn in the 20th book to join the Quilts of Love Series. The best part about this series is that each novel can be read as a stand alone and not in any order which makes this truly a one of a kind collection and series.

In this one, the storyline involves Alyssa Denham who wins a two week trip for two to the romantic Mackinac Island. Alyssa is more than familiar with the Island, since her grandmother lives in a small cottage on the island, but she hasn't gone to visit her for fifteen years because of something that has kept her away and one that has remained a hidden part of her past. Yet it seems like God has the perfect plan to reunite her with more than just her grandmother. So with no romantic partner in her life at the present time, Alyssa invites her best friend, Libby to join her instead. Nothing could be more fun, than two glorious sun-filled weeks staying at the Grand Hotel, made famous in the movie Somewhere in Time and one she has been drawn to. Libby has vowed that Alyssa will find that special summer romance and the island offers just that opportunity to make that happen.

When Alyssa meets with her grandmother, she is given a task to gather quilt blocks from the friends her grandmother made when they established a quilting bee so many years ago on the island. Now in order to create her own memory quilt, she needs Alyssa and Libby to go around and bring the quilt blocks back to her so she can put them together in a beautiful quilt. Knowing there is no cars on the island, Alyssa's grandmother arranges for a carriage to take them to her friends homes all over the island, and it is owned by Scott Whitman, a young man who is more than enamored with Alyssa. Will this be the makings of something beautiful or will it only be a moment in time for them?

I received A Grand Design by Amber Stockton compliments of Litfuse Publicity and Abingdon Press for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own. I've seen the romantic movie Somewhere in Time with Jane Seymour and Christopher Reeve many years ago and have always been a fan of romance. Placing the setting of this novel right where it was filmed was a definite winner for me. From the beautiful descriptions of the hotel and grounds provides the readers with just the imagination to stir the longings of their romantic heart. It conveys that even though we carry around emotional baggage from things in our lives that have hurt us, we don't have to continue to carry them. We can learn to let go and move forward into the new life that God has been planning for us all along. I think Amber Stockton did just that in showing how that can affect our ability to move forward in the future God has planned for us if we are willing to take that leap of faith. I rate this one a 4.5 out of 5 stars in my opinion and literally inhaled this in a couple of hours. It was that good. There is even a Reader's Discussion Guide included at the conclusion of this novel as well as a sneak peek at Robin Caroll's novel Hidden in the Stars, another addition of the Quilts of Love Series.

For more information about A Grand Design, Amber Stockton or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

A Grand Design by Amber Stockton

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

To read more reviews on A Grand Design, please visit Litfuse Publicity's book tour page.


Don’t miss this month’s Quilts of Love book, A Grand Design by Amber Stockton. Who hasn't struggled to let painful memories go and move into God's healing? You’ll be sure to love this heartfelt and encouraging tale set on historic Mackinac Island.

Celebrate August’s release by entering to win a Kindle from Quilts of Love and RSVPing for the "Fall into Fall" Facebook author chat party.

  One winner will receive:

• A Kindle HDX
• A Grand Design by Amber Stockton
• Hidden in the Stars by Robin Caroll

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on September 16th. Winner will be announced on the Quilts of Love blog. Plus make sure you RSVP to the October 7th author chat party with Amber Stockton and Robin Caroll for an evening of book chat, quilting tips and tricks, prizes, and more!

RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on October 7th!

The Heart's Pursuit

Resolving in her mind that she will undoubtedly grow old as a spinster, never being the married wife and having children like her stepsister, Rose. So it should have come as no surprise to her when Bob Cassidy rode into town and quite literally swept her off her feet, that warning signs were going off in her head. Leaving her standing alone at the altar was bad enough of an embarrassment for Silver Matlock, but Bob also robbed her father's store with the last mortgage payment. Without that money, they would lose not only the Mercantile but also their family home. Even selling her grandmother's gold and diamond locket wouldn't be enough to hold off the bank collecting on the debt now looming within 90 days. But sometimes you have to take a chance when things look the darkest.

Silver would find someone to locate Bob Cassidy before he had the opportunity to sell off her family's jewelry and the cash he had stolen from the store's safe. She knew she had just enough money to find someone willing to take the time to find the man she knew could save her family if he could be found in the next 90 days. Jared Newman has been holding out his own personal revenge in finding the man who murdered his entire family leaving him not only an orphan but with his own personal need to find the man responsible. His only clue was a crescent shaped scar on the man's neck and in the last six years, Jared has been as lucky as he had hoped as a bounty hunter.

With all his money tied up in pending rewards, Silver's claim might just be the ticket in locating two men at the same time, seeing as they both seemed to be headed west. Only the last thing he imagined he'd be agreeing to when he decided to take her case, was taking her along for the ride. Her family has sent her away due to the rumors circulating in the small Colorado town of Twin Springs, especially with her taking the initiative to hire a bounty hunter to find her father's money before they were destitute and without a home seeing as they were the wealthiest family in town. Silver finds that accompanying Jared might be the only way he can find Bob with nothing more to go on than a faded picture and the description of just about every man in town. It will take more than luck for them to find him before time runs out.

I received The Heart's Pursuit by Robin Lee Hatcher compliments Zondervan Publishing 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. Robin Lee Hatcher has been one of my favorite Christian Western authors and every time I see her name on a request, I immediately agree to review them even before I know what they are going to be about. They are simply that good! I love her attention to detail from the wording she uses on her character's dialogue to the detailed descriptions of the towns her characters ride in to. I love strong female characters that aren't afraid to take on whatever responsibilities life tosses their way and such is the case of Silver Matlock. While she is afraid of the unknown, she is willing to take chances most women wouldn't like riding out late at night to convince a bounty hunter, she's going whether he agrees to it or not. This one easily rates a 5 out of 5 western stars in my book. Can't wait for more from Robin!!!

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The Heart's Pursuit by Robin Lee Hatcher

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Robin Lee Hatcher's latest novel, The Heart's Pursuit, is receiving critical praise: "The Old West lives again in this inspirational romantic adventure. . . . Themes of forgiveness, justice and mercy dominate the story and add to the characters' depth. Hatcher treats readers to a rich sensory experience—you can taste the desert dust and smell the smoke and stench of a crowded gambling hall." (Publishers Weekly)

Robin is celebrating the release of her novel by giving away a $200 "Romantic Weekend Getaway."

  One winner will receive:

• A $200 Visa cash card (Get away for the weekend with that special someone!)
• The Heart's Pursuit by Robin Lee Hatcher

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 8th. Winner will be announced June 9th on Robin's website.
 

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to stop by Robin's blog on June 8th to see if you won.