Home All Along

Some people struggle their whole lives to find a place to call home, when in all actuality it was right in front of them the whole time. In Beth Wiseman's newest novel, Home All Along, the third in the Amish Secrets series, Charlotte Dolinsky is faced with more challenges then most. Being orphaned along with her brother Ethan, she has watched the family deteriorate around her. First her father died, then her brother, and while she struggled to maintain any sense of a relationship with her birth mother Janelle, she watched her slowly die while languishing away in a mental institution lost in her mind in a rage of madness. It would make one wonder, why she shed any tears at all at her mother's funeral. But perhaps deep inside she was mourning for a family most had and she didn't.

Even though her Amish family made her feel at home, they weren't her biological family. Daniel Byler is struggling himself with the feelings he has for Charlotte, an English woman who makes herself at home among the Amish, but still keeping a foot in the English world. He knows what implications will happen if he chooses to walk away from all he has known to follow his heart, but he is hoping that Charlotte might just want to walk away from the English world and join him. After all, it seems as if she is home already.

They didn't see all the changes coming for both of them. The new Bishop has warned Daniel that Charlotte must make a decision soon as many in the fold are beginning to question if the Bishop intends to allow them to continue as they have been, clearly having affections for one another but not equally yoked. Charlotte is introduced to a sister, Andrea, she never knew she had, when she turns up at her mother's funeral, only to remind her that she just needed to know who she was for medical issues. This makes Charlotte question what God has in mind with all this news on the same day she buries her mother. Can she find the right faith to hold onto her life and weather the storms that seem to be pressing on her at this time? Only time will tell.

I received Home All Along by Beth Wiseman compliments of Thomas Nelson Publishing and NetGalley. Oh how I have thoroughly enjoyed this entire series. It makes one realize that the Amish are just like the English in so many ways and have the same struggles we all do. The only difference is their ability to try and accept the things that happen as God's will, but it still doesn't mean it makes it easy for them to handle it well. So many other relationships are addressed as well in this novel with characters readers have met in the other novels. I especially LOVE the ideas that butterflies are rumored to be messages from heaven! I easily give this novel a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

For more information about Home All Along, Beth Wiseman or where to pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Home All Along by Beth Wiseman 

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The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey

Women's rights and duties have come a long way since the 1800's where most women of title we're educated on how to land themselves a suitable husband and increase their financial holdings. They were refrained from sharing their personal opinions especially among the men, and there were certain things they could and could not do, especially if one's family was of the upper social elite class. I can't imagine a time, when if you failed to do any of those things, you were banished as an old maid, but not only your family, but also society as a whole. Those friends you grew up with could no longer consort with you because society deemed that something you have done, or rumored to have done, now has caused great shame not only for you, but on your families name as well.

I found myself favoring the character of Miss Clara DeLancey, who found herself rejected by a suitable man she had dreamed of marrying. After that, it seems like every single season just brought more and more disgrace to the DeLancey name. She can't imagine trying to fit in again with another season of London, but her mother seems determined to find "someone" suitable to marry her. Unfortunately for Clara, she has resolved to stay an old maid at 25 rather than go through all the fake smiles and acting, just in hopes that someone will marry her. Her heart remains broken by the one man she thought she would be spending a lifetime with.

Captain Benjamin Kemsley has finally returned home after years of being away at sea. Hailed as a hero when his ship went down in an unexpected storm, he hopes he can finally put that behind him and try to find a future for himself. He knows his youngest sister has her heart set on finding the right man to marry as their oldest brother is a baron, so she can attend some of the social functions in London. He just never expected to find the perfect woman of his dreams falling into his arms when he rescues her from falling from a cliff. Was it merely an accidental mis-step or had she been trying to kill herself. With her running away from him, all he can remember about her is her raven hair. Now if he can only figure out just who this mystery woman is, and perhaps find a way to get to know what could drive someone to end their life so suddenly. Surely nothing can be that dire!

I received The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey by Carolyn Miller compliments of Kregel Publications. I have had the glorious opportunity to read every single book in this series, and I am sure that this might just be my favorite because of how strongly I felt about Clara. To be pushed and pulled in so many directions and nothing she does right means much in her mother's eyes except to find the right man, and the right title. She refuses to allow her to socialize with anyone she doesn't not approve of, including Benjamin's sister Tessa, whom she adores. They accept Clara without any pretense and that is something she is desperate for, not all the foolishness of trying to find the right man to marry. This is the third novel in the Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace series and am looking so forward to her next series!!! For me, this one easily garners a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion. I am a traditional regencies fan, so this series really appealed to the romantic at heart in me.

For more information about The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey, Carolyn Miller or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today,

The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey by Carolyn Miller

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To read more reviews on The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey, please visit Kregel Publication's website. 

Peace in the Valley

"Two years before, Sam Stafford had dreamed the impossible dream. To have his family reunited, here, in the lush Kittitas Valley of Washington, snugged between the rising forms of the Cascade Range. He knew it wouldn't happen. He knew it couldn't happen. He'd done to much damage in his time, and there no quick fixed in sight. Then he got sick. Illness threatened his time fame and his life and for months, he couldn't imagine how he could bring his dream about. How he could fix things just so. Make things right. Now he realized he didn't have to. God fixed things. God offered chances and choices, and this time Sam chose wisely, even when he didn't much like the offerings."

As head patriarch of the Double S Ranch, Sam has made more than a few mistakes along the way to being the successful rancher that he is. Now that two of his sons have found their way back home and begun to set up their own homes on the property with weddings in the near future, Sam believes that he has little time left to right a few of those wrongs and one of them is giving back to his neighbor Lucy Carlton, a single mother raising three young kids while her ranch, home and barn are falling into disrepair. It gets even worse, when his youngest son, Trey gets into an accident running a stop sign and totaling not only Lucy's van but her home based flower business as well. Perhaps this is just the window of opportunity Sam's been praying for. Now that Trey has come home as a liver recipient for Sam's operation, he is putting his country music career on hold for now, praying that the operation is a success and allows them both a chance at a new life.

Trey isn't looking for love when he takes up his father's plea to help Lucy will fixing up the land and ranch he had sought to buy before they did, and now feels it is only right to help in any way he can. Trey on the other hand realizes that he has to tread carefully around Lucy as she is more than cautious about letting anyone seeing her as a charity case, even when it will help not only herself but her kids as well. Now that she is also allowing her former husband's sister to stay with her, Ashley at 14, will test the very limits of her patience as not only a rebellious teen but someone who needs guidance, second chances and most importantly love that lasts and is true. Can Lucy and Trey find peace in the valley or will they allow their own stubborn pride to stand in the way of true and lasting happiness?

I received Peace in the Valley by Ruth Logan Herne compliments of Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers. In accordance with the new FTC Guidelines for blogging and endorsements, you should assume that every book reviewed here at Reviews From The Heart was provided to the reviewer by the publisher, media group or the author for free and were received, unless specified otherwise. This is the third novel in the Double Ranch Series, and I have to say I have a special place in my heart for those true cowboys whose genteel manners and kindness like Trey's makes my heart melt, I mean, "He wanted to make her smile, See her relax and laugh. Give her the gift of time, ease her work burden." who wouldn't want a man like that in her own life. Perhaps the best theme of this novel is the simple quote Lucy keeps in kitchen, "What if you woke up tomorrow with only the things you took time to thank God for today?" This is such a heartwarming story of healing, lasting love, forgiveness and second chances and blessings that come in disguise as a single mother, and a charming cowboy who loves to tip his hat to her! Not only do you get romance, but also some mouth watering recipes at the end. A win-win for me and well deserving of all 5 out of 5 stars. I am just praying that this isn't the end to the series! I just not ready for it to end yet.

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

Peace in the Valley by Ruth Logan Herne 

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Kissing Father Christmas

Christmas in London. Snow falling. Carolers in the air. A warm cup of tea. Something sweet. Just the idyllic setting for a wonderful Christmas romance from author, Robin Jones Gunn. This is the third novel in the Finding Father Christmas series around Carlton Heath in England and Anna is back for more. She arrived the first time and fell in love not only with the sights and sounds of Christmas in England but the family and friends she acquired there. However one thing has been lingering in her mind and that is a secret kiss shared between her and the groomsman from her cousin Miranda's wedding.

Anna believes that there is more there and it was only due to her leaving so soon that the romantic sparks she felt with Peter had to be put on hold. She dreams that they can rekindle those feelings once again, or at least she can hope it will be the one thing she wants this Christmas. However when she runs into Peter, he is quick to explain away their kiss as something all people in England do and he hopes she didn't read anything into it that would imply a romantic notion. Anna quickly passes off her feelings as those she didn't have those same desires and instead offers Peter an out, that they could begin again as friends. But those heartstrings simply won't let go and Peter begins making plans to show Anna around London at Christmas. She only hopes she can put her heart on hold until Peter reveals he wants more than simply being friends. Can that all happen in the short time she is visiting or will she return home to America with more than a broken heart?

I received Kissing Father Christmas by Robin Jones Gunn compliments of Faith Words, a division of Hachette Book Groups for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest opinion. This reminds me of my favorite movie The Holiday, without some of the comedy. Here two people are trying very hard to deny their feelings for one another and it seems it takes the threat of leaving again to cause them to confess to one another that love between them exists and always has. Now the question that will need to be answered is who will have to give up their home in order to make it more permanent. Grab a cup of something warm, snuggle up by the fire and enjoy this heartwarming romance. I give this one a 4 out of 5 and at just under 200 pages it is simple to finish in a day.

For more information about Kissing Father Christmas, Robin Jones Gunn or where you can preorder a copy of this book today due out in October, please click on the links below:

Kissing Father Christmas by Robin Jones Gunn

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To read more reviews on Kissing Father Christmas, please visit Faith Word'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

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A Moment of Weakness

I can't say enough about any book written by Karen Kingsbury. If you have never read one, please pick one up. They are more than simply a story that grabs you in someway by the heart, but they are ones that last well beyond the final page you read. They are that life changing. They get you to not only connect with the characters on an emotional level but there is a depth there that simply goes beyond being a story in a book. It almost feels as if these were personal stories that Karen is sharing with her readers like you are a close personal friend.

In the latest addition to her Forever Faithful Series, A Moment of Weakness is the second book to the series and takes place between Jade Conner and Tanner Eastman who grew up together and became the truest sense of best friends. Tanner forever vowed that despite his young age, he would grow up and marry Jade one day, something she argued would never happen. Like even the best of friends, life happened and simply one day Jade and her family moved away in hopes of finding her mother that left them behind. Jade believed that one day they would return and things would carry on like they always did, but that day never happened and Jade and her father never moved back.

Fast forward a decade later and Jade is working as a nurse in a children's hospital that is being threatened with closure due to budget cuts within the county. Jade is the strongest voice among the community and when the case is slated to go before the board, Tanner Eastman is the intern presenting the case. He never imagined in a million years that he would find the one girl who he gave his heart to so many years ago. Yet even in his heart, for now they can't be together because Tanner's got political aspirations that involved finishing up law school and making his way to the White House with the support of his mother. The other is that Jade doesn't share the same faith that he does and for now, all he can offer her is the friendship they always had, until God places an obstacle so great in their path that will put their faith to the ultimate test.

I received A Moment of Weakness by Karen Kingsbury compliments of Waterbrook Multnomah 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 and personal evaluation. I absolutely loved this story of Tanner and Jade because like all of us life isn't perfect, in fact it can get downright messy but for the grace of God, He can restore and make all things new despite our choices in life. That is the truest sense of what it means to be a believer in Jesus is that redemption, forgiveness and second chances are available to all of us no matter what circumstances we have gone through. For me, this one will be a permanent fixture with my ongoing Karen Kingsbury collection in my home library with a 5 out of 5 stars,  and one I can highly recommend to anyone who believes that their life is without hope for a second chance.

For more information about A Moment of Weakness, Karen Kingsbury or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

A Moment of Weakness by Karen Kingsbury 

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To read more reviews on A Moment of Weakness, please visit Waterbrook Multnomah Publisher's website. 

The Methuselah Project

This is one novel that literally crosses over several genre's and with such an excellent premise. Fans of just about any kind of novel will absolutely LOVE this one. Even my 16-year-old daughter is picking this one up. As I began reading The Methuselah Project from Rick Barry, it is hard not to draw a comparison of sorts between that of Steve Rogers of the Captain America fame, but it does take a unique twist on the concept.

Roger Green was a fighter pilot who is shot down over Germany during World War II and instead of finding himself in a prisoner of war camp, he is abducted by German scientists along with six others who have been captured for a unique experiment without their consent. Believing that if they can locate a way to prolong human life to that of Methuselah from the Bible, the oldest living recorded human being, they can ensure that Hitler's Third Reich will last at least a thousand years. Now they just need to discover how to make that happen, and Roger is one of the seven who will be tested.

He doesn't expect it will work, but soon discovers that his body has the uncanny ability to heal itself faster than normal. When the allied planes however begin bombing the basement where he and six others are kept, he soon finds that he is the sole survivor and that the secrets to his longevity are now buried along with his companions. But Germany isn't about to release Roger until they can figure out how to recreate the formula that now has made Roger, the potential for the longest living man ever. What Roger doesn't know is just how long that may take.

I received The Methuselah Project by Rick Barry compliments of Kregel Publications for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review, aside from a free copy of this novel, and the opinions contained here are strictly my own honest opinions. Being a huge fan of WWII fiction, history and the Bible, this contained a unique premise I really want to read and see how it would all play out. What would someone do who was born and served in WWII and would be held far longer than he would expect to live. Much like Steve Rogers of the Captain America fame, it would be hard to acclimate to a new century without having gone through it and suddenly see things from a technological advancement like we have today, when Roger finally escapes. How will he process those changes and stay out of harms way from those who want the secrets that lie hidden within his DNA. Imagine the possibilities of someone who could outlive others by hundreds of years! This one hit a home run in my opinion and thus the reason for giving it a 5 out of 5 stars in this reader's opinion.

For more information about The Methuselah Project, Rick Barry or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

The Methuselah Project by Rick Barry

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To read more reviews on The Methuselah Project, please visit Kregel Publications website. 

Counting on a Cowboy

Thankfully, I have never to this date, experienced the loss of a spouse, but I know many who have, and it is not an easy place to be. Often times, well meaning people, will believe that enough time has passed in their books, for that person to be willing to move forward, but what we fail to realize is that it is different for everyone. What we need to do, is to be there for them, as often as they need us and never underplay what they are feeling or dealing with from one day to another. That is the premise behind Debra Clopton's novel, Counting on a Cowboy, the second novel in the Four of Hearts Ranch Romance Series.

I quite literally read this in a couple of hours, it was simply that good. I mean who wouldn't want a handsome cowboy like Bo Monahan to be interested in helping you out. For Abby Knightly, she isn't. The only reason she sold her home and moved to Wishing Springs, Texas was to start over and based on the advice columns she read from Maggie, this was a ladies paradise for all the right reasons beginning with the eligible men that lived there. This wasn't the reason she moved here, she simply had to get away from all those well meaning friends and family that felt after two years, the loss of her husband Landon, should be old news by now. She should be willing to look for love again. For Abby, she was just ready to leave that all behind, but the problem was that no matter how far away she moved, unless she was ready to deal with things, it would follow her for the rest of her life.

Bo Monahan wasn't looking for love until it hit him, well almost anyway. Trying to corral a wayward steer, put himself in the middle of the road at night and cause Abby to swerve her car and put her into a ditch. Knowing he was partially to blame, he offers to be her escort around town until her car can be fixed. He just doesn't know that the more time he spends with Abby, and the more she tries to push him away, the more deeper he gets in his feelings for her. Thankfully, he has to put his mind on other things like a baby that is dumped on his porch that claims he is the father and that if this has happened, then the mother has passed away from cancer. Life certainly just got interesting in Wishing Springs and for some it will be quite life changing in more ways than one.

I received Counting On A Cowboy by Debra Clopton compliments of Thomas Nelson Publishers and Litfuse Publicity. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review aside from a free copy of the book. and the opinions contained here are my own personal and honest opinions. This is such a wonderful heartwarming story because it deals with loss on a different level. It shows us that no matter what we are all facing in our life we can make it through it when we rely on God's promises found in the Bible. We just need to learn to lean on Him and one day before we know it, will we arrive on the other side in our own timing and with His! This one is worth 4.5 out of 5 stars and I can't wait for the final novel in this series Kissed By A Cowboy which is slated for release in February of 2016. I will be sad to see it end for the Monahan family!

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

Counting on a Cowboy by Debra Clopton

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A new tale of romance, family, and taking risks—don't miss Debra Clopton's Counting on a Cowboy! After losing everything she held dear, Abby never wants to love again. But a certain cowboy may just spur her to wonder if love might be worth the risk. As Abby throws herself into helping Bo navigate fatherhood, hope sparks between them, revealing that maybe, just maybe, they can navigate their dark pasts and emerge together into a future as bright as the Texas sun itself.

Saddle up with Debra and her new book and enter to win her Love at the Reins prize pack!

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of Counting on a Cowboy
• A $25 gift card to Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or Starbucks
• A western-inspired bracelet
• A horseshoe heart

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

Tiffany Girl

I love when authors use historical facts as the basis for their novels and in Tiffany Girl the latest novel from best-selling author Deeanne Gist, I got to learn a bit more about the wonderful women who were called upon by Louis Tiffany to help complete his stained glass chapel that he had planned on debuting. When the men went on strike, Mr. Tiffany relied upon the most unconventional help at that time, employing women to help cut and assemble the fantastic pieces of stained glass. It helped them during the struggles of single women in 1893 who often times found themselves working to hand over their money to the men in their lives, be it there fathers or husbands.

Often times had it not been for the money women made doing odd jobs like sewing or in this case working at the Tiffany Glass Company, many of them would be out on the streets. Work was becoming difficult for men and with the demands to work longer hours for very little money, some of them went on strike. But when women were called to take their places temporarily, many of the men made sure the women knew that they were less than pleased.

Florence Jayne is one of those young girls who has seen how the money her mother and her work so hard to bring in, is being gambled away by her father. Her mother is unwilling to stand up and demand that the money remain theirs, so Flossie takes it upon herself to become a "New Woman." A title designated for the women who believe in more than simply staying at home, marrying and starting their own families. Flossie feels that the only way that will happen is if she moves into a boarding house as she works for Mr. Tiffany.

While she is staying at the boarding house, she finds a family she never dreamed of having and sets to work to ensure that the people who live at the boarding house, feel just like family, so she incorporates various seating arrangements so people are forced to talk with someone new, she prepares questions to leave under their plate to help them get to know one another and encourages them to come together in the evening in the parlor. Reeve Wilder is an up and coming reporter who is tasked at sharing his time in the boarding house with the people who live there in a fictionalized story that is geared to help the newspaper continue to sell papers. Reeve is also a stanch advocate of women remaining at home and not part of the New Women movement. Soon sparks begin to fly in various ways as Flossie stays determine to not let men have the upper hand in everything she has to deal with, but will Mr. Wilder be able to tame the wild beast inside?

I receive Tiffany Girl by Deeanne Gist compliments of Howard Books, a division of Simon and Schuster for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are strictly my own. Seeing as I have a Tiffany Lamp on my desk, it was a great journey into the history behind how these lamps came to be and the history behind the working conditions for women in the late 1800's. For fans of Deeanne's others novels, It Happened at the Fair and Fair Play, you will definitely want to add this to your collection. There are so many great individual stories within this novel that it is hard to figure out which was my favorite, from Reeve's fictional stories, to Flossie's love of art that winds up virtually everywhere in the story. There are so amazing pictures that open much of each chapter that give the reader the essence of what is happening in this novel. Well done and a well-deserved 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion. There is a great Author's Note section that defines what is historical fact from fiction and a Reader's Discussion Guide as well.

For more information about Tiffany Girl, Deeanne Gist or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Tiffany Girl by Deeanne Gist

You can find Deeanne Gist on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Tiffany Girl, please visit Howard Book's website. 

Love Gently Falling

Just when Rita Jansen thinks she finally has the perfect life all figured out, tragedy strikes with one phone call from her dad. Her mother has had a stroke and they aren't sure if she will recover but it doesn't look good. Now she will leave her life as a hair stylist in Beverly Hills to face the cold winter of Chicago to help her mother for the next two weeks. Her passion for hair began working with her mother at her salon Hair and Now, and it was her mother who funded the money to send her to school to get her license even though it was in California. Her mother had always been there to support her, now it was Rita's turn to help in any way she could.

When she arrived at the airport intending on finding her own transportation to get to the hospital, she is more than surprised when an old friend from school, Johnny Hollister, is there to pick her up. This way her family can stay at the hospital and not have to worry about Rita. They share a great reunion in the drive there and she learns that Johnny has added her mother's salon to his growing number of clients for his janitorial company. She also learns that her childhood best friend has opened her own shop in the same mall as the salon.

When Rita arrives, she learns that her mother's recovery and stroke was worse than she imagined and it will take about six months to get her back on her feet again. Until then, it's long hours of physical therapy to get her speech and movement back. Rita vows to spend those two weeks renovating her mother's outdated salon to something she would be proud of. But how will she be able to manage it with only two weeks and a very limited budget. All she knows is she has to try because by the looks of things if she doesn't her mother may be out of business before she can return to the salon again.

I received Love Gently Falling by Melody Carlson compliments of Center Street Publishing, a division of Hachette Book Groups for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are strictly my own. This is such a beautiful contemporary romance perfect for Valentine's Day! The love that abounds not only for Rita's family and friends but even for her own childhood skating rink comes full circle by the conclusion of this book and teaches us that it's never to let to find love in the places we might least expect it. This one is worthy of 5 out of 5 stars.

For more information about Love Gently Falling, Melody Carlson, or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

Love Gently Falling by Melody Carlson

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To find more reviews on Love Gently Falling, please visit Center Street Publishers website. 

The Promise

The one thing Mallory Hammond knows is that she vowed to save a life when the promise she made to her cousin at 17, was over rulled by her parents and left her cousin to die when they refused to let her donate a kidney. Now it is the first item on her bucket list and now that she is older, she can make those decisions for herself even if her parents object. When she tries to donate her kidney years later, she is determined to have a genetic disposition for pre-diabetes that once again robs her of the desire to help someone and fulfill the promise she made so many years ago. Tate Webber has hoped that some day he and Mallory might get married but until she is able to fulfill her promise she will keep Tate at arms length and refuse to make plans to get married.

When she learns that a child suffering from leukemia in Pakistan, a niece to the man she works for Ismail at his office, she believes this may in fact be the last opportunity to save a life. With little time left for Majida to get treatment to come to the United States, Ismail and Abdul are convinced the only way to expedite things in time is to find someone to marry Abdul in name only, and allow Majida and Abdul to be able to travel to the United States for treatment. Now if they can only convince Mallory. Fortunately Abdul knows just what will motivate Ismail to help convince Mallory to come to Pakistan and marry him and that will mean threatening his future fiance' Soraya with harm. It is a fear that Ismail has lived under long since leaving his own country, but the hand of his family and father can make it more than just a threat but reality as well.

When things between Tate and Mallory seem to go south in terms of their relationship, Ismail knows just the time to ask Mallory if she might consider helping Majida get treatment to save her life, since the medical care in Pakistan is limited and not likely to help her survive. For Mallory feeling like she has no options left to fulfill her promise agrees to talk to Abdul over the phone to see what they can work out and come to an agreement. Mallory knows if she tells her family or Tate what she is considering, neither of them will support her decision. So she decides to take a risk that may lead to more than she is bargaining for.

I received The Promise by Beth Wiseman compliments of Thomas Nelson Publishers and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are strictly my own. This novel is based on real life events from a friend close to Beth Wiseman who found herself in similar circumstances when she fell for an offer of marriage to a Muslim man and found herself being held against her will. It conveys how very different the two cultures are and how often women are misled to make the trip to foreign countries only to find themselves trapped and unable to return. A very chilling reminder to be a warning to women who may be considering the very same thing as Mallory. It conveys just how different it can be in two very different countries and just because you maintain citizenship in the United States, you lose much of that control being married in a Muslim country now controlled by your husband. I rate this one a 4.5 out of 5 stars and applaud Beth for sharing this story that may help other women from making these same mistakes in their own lives.

For more information about The Promise, Beth Wiseman or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

The Promise by Beth Wiseman

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

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


In a daring new novel, Beth Wiseman jumps way outside the box. The Promise will take readers far away from Amish country and small Texas towns to a dangerous place on the other side of the world. Inspired by actual events, this is the book Beth has been working toward for a long time.

Curious? Click here to read the reviews, and be sure to enter Beth's Kindle HDX giveaway!
One grand prize winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire HDX
• The Promise by Beth Wiseman

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 9th. Winner will be announced November 10th here.

Happy to be Alive, Because

"When I was seven years old, I rode my bike without training wheels for the first time. I made it about fifteen feet before I turned my head to make sure my mom was watching me. She was, and her excited expression was the last thing I saw before my face became well acquainted with the pavement.

After she cleaned my battle wounds, my mom announced that I deserved a reward for completing such a daunting task - we were going shopping. Within twenty minutes we were standing inside an incredibly gaudy store that, for some reason, I had claimed as my favorite when she asked me where I would like to go. I had never actually been inside, but the windows were always full of displays featuring feathers and sparkly things, and that was enough for me. My seven-year-old self stood in what was my idea of heaven, touching everything I could land my fingers on. After much deliberation, I chose a less gaudy, still obnoxious heart necklace that said "Forever and Always."

When I got in the car and I tried to put the necklace on, I was devastated to find it broken into two separate pieces. My mom explained to me that it was actually two separate necklaces that people who cared about each other wore so they wouldn't forget the other person. Looking back, I now see that those words were her nice way of conveying, "You picked one of those cheesy love necklaces adored by preteen girls."

Once we were home and she showed me how the necklaces worked, I promptly put the other one around her neck. "Don't forget me, " I told her. She was "Forever." I was "and Always."

My mom never once took that necklace off. She wore it proudly too, not hidden under a scarf or stuffed under her shirt.. I can remember sitting in front of the television watching the news, having begged my babysitter to let me stay up and watch my mom. Every time, I watched to see if she would be wearing my necklace. She always was, never once disappointing me. I never saw her without it on, ever. Not even as I said my goodbyes to her once cancer permanently took her away from me. The last thing I remember seeing on my mother before they lowered her away from me forever was that shiny, silly forever necklace." (pg 5-6)

Avery at seventeen now has to face her future alone without her mother and coming to terms with dealing with the grief she has managed to lock inside. Unable to shed any tears even right after her mother's death, her aunt is concerned that she won't be able to cope with things at some point. Avery discovers when going through her mother's room that she had planned one final trip for the two of them just two weeks before her death to visit her childhood home in Glynn Springs, Florida. Tired of all the concerns from family members and friends, Avery takes her mother's plans and head to Florida to escape life for the moment. She finds her mother has included a journal for Avery to list the things she is happy to be alive about, but honestly how can you be happy about anything knowing her best friend and mom is no longer with you. Yet Avery will soon discover life goes on and she won't be alone when she finds solace and comfort in three unlikely people she meets in Florida and it will forever change her life.

I received Happy to be Alive, Because by Chelsea Jacobs compliments of Nyree Press and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed in this review are strictly my own unless otherwise noted. This is a coming of age story in a different way when Avery is forced to deal with her mother's death being buried so deep inside that it comes to the surface when she least expects it. She finds it difficult to journal her feelings because a part of her feels like she is betraying her mother's memory if she is happy about anything. It is a real and honest look at how one young woman deals with the fact that life does go on for those of us left behind no matter how hard it can be. I rate this novel a 4 out of 5 stars and love that it is a wonderfully written novel for young adults with a touch of summer love in the mix.

For more information about Happy to be Alive Because, Chelsea Jacobs or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Happy to be Alive, Because by Chelsea Jacobs

You can also find Chelsea Jacob on her website to stay up to date with all her novels.

To read more reviews on Happy to be Alive, Because, please visit Litfuse Publicity's book tour page. 

Dancing with Fireflies

Denise Hunter has to be hands-down one of my favorite romance authors. Her writing style is simply amazing and I wish I could convey to you what it means to have an invitation to review any of her books. I am always thrilled when I see her name pop up on a book review invitation, because I don't even have to read the synopsis to decide whether I want to consider it for a review, I know it will be a winner!!!

I don't think there is one woman who hasn't had a romantic man from her past that she hasn't wished or wanted to know what would have happened if things worked out between them and they got the opportunity to see if things would work out, but then life happens and that never happens. This is just that kind of premise that leads off the second novel in her Chapel Springs Romance Series. Jade McKinley has found her way back home again to Chapel Springs after trying for a new adventure in Chicago. But when an innocent date with Nick, a man who frequented her diner lead to a date rape leaving her with an unexpected pregnancy. All she knows is that is where she needs to go to find the help she needs.

The one thing she didn't plan on was running into her childhood friend, Daniel Dawson, who is now the current mayor. But surprisingly he is the only one she can confide in. It seems like things begin to go from bad to worse when the job prospects look slim, her apartment never materializes and her mother suffers from a critical heart attack that renders trying to discuss things with her family on hold for quite a while. But how can you hide your impending pregnancy from the small town she lives in where quite everyone knows everything.

Even Daniel isn't immune to the rumors that begin to fly with his current prospects of running for congressman in Washington D.C. to hang out with a pregnant woman who isn't his wife. His uptight and conservative parents want Daniel to cut all ties with Jade otherwise he won't have much chance to win the election, even though the familiar romantic feelings he has had for Jade is coming on stronger than ever. If he can only convince Jade that he has feeling for her that go deeper than the brotherly ones she shares with him. Will love truly win a place in both their hearts?

I received Dancing with Fireflies by Denise Hunter compliments of Thomas Nelson Publishers and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions are strictly my own. I am so addicted to the fictional town of Chapel Springs she has created as well as the small town feel you gain from the people that they interact with. But it is that spark that Daniel has always had for Jade that he never acted upon that wonders if their might be a chance to make something of it when she comes home. Only he never expected things to be quite so complicated with her. But will he be able to overcome his feelings when he learns the circumstances surrounding just how Jade wound up pregnant? You'll have to pick this one up to find out. Now on pins and needles to see just where the third novel will wind up but sooooo looking forward to it! Hands down it gains my Ahhh! romance factor and easily gets a 5 out of 5 stars!

For more information about Dancing with Fireflies, Denise Hunter, or where you can purchase a copy of this novel, please click on the links below:

Dancing with Fireflies by Denise Hunter

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

To read more reviews on Dancing with Fireflies, please visit Litfuse Publicity Book Tours page.

Don't miss Denise Hunter's latest Chapel Springs Romance, Dancing with Fireflies. Reviewers have already labeled Dancing with Fireflies "swoon-worthy" and "the perfect love story." 

Join Denise in celebrating the release of her new book by entering her Kindle HDX giveaway and RSVPing for her April 10th Facebook party.
 

One winner will receive:

• A brand new Kindle Fire HDX
• Dancing with Fireflies and Barefoot Summer by Denise Hunter

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 10th. Winner will be announced at the Dancing with Fireflies Facebook Party on April 10th. Connect with Denise for an evening of prizes, book chat, and an exclusive look at the next book in the series.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN on the event page. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 10th!

The Winner's Game

Just when seventeen-year-old Ann Bennett believed she had everything going for her and she was truly at the top of her game, disaster struck that would change not only her life but the lives of her entire family. As a high school competitive swimmer Ann had hoped to clinch her final meet and show everyone just how good she really was. The butterflies she was used to feeling as nerves before each race, never bothered her until they began to attack her check and begin to bite as she was way ahead of all the other swimmers. It was at that moment that Ann died.

When the EMS crew revived her, tests would indicate that Ann had congenital cardiomyopathy, a defect she has had her whole life. It was the strain of swimming that caused her to have a seizure in the pool and then she went into cardiac arrest. She was truly lucky to be alive. But when Ann had hoped that she could be treated for the heart issue, she was dealt another hand of fate. She needed a heart transplant or she would die while possibly waiting for one. Each day until she received one, would truly be a wait and see game. A miracle. A day to be thankful for.

The strain is was having on her entire family was more than she could bear. Her parents decided to utilize the family beach house in Cannon Beach as a way to get away from everything and hopefully find a way to get back to some sense of normal if that was possible. Her parents were barely on speaking terms and were using the weekend as family time, while her dad would stay in the city during the week and work. It was a separation to see if they could work things out somehow and provide some peace to all their fighting when they were together.

Ann's youngest sister, Bree and her brother Cade were growing tired of all the special treatment Ann was getting having to pick up doing her chores so she could rest and not be strained in any way. While her brother looked forward to spending the entire summer at the beach, her sister Bree was more than resentful at having to give up her time with friends this summer just for Ann's sake. However instead of making things better, the in-fighting between everyone was simply growing out of control. It seems like nothing will help heal them until Emily, Ann's mother finds her grandmother's journals that outline the details of the success of their marriage. Quite simply, everyone must be willing to play The Winner's Game. But will there be enough time to restore what's broken in their family before fate intervenes for the last time?

I received The Winner's Game by Kevin Alan Milne compliments of Center Street Publishing, a division of Hachette Book Groups for my honest review. This is such an amazing story because of the depth Kevin goes through to show the feelings each of the family members is dealing with as each chapter rotates among all five. We get a sense of how they are dealing not only with the mortality facing them with Ann's heart, but also in coming to terms with how to move forward despite all the overwhelming odds working against them. Parents are fighting, kids are fighting, and Ann simply wants to be a normal girl for just the summer without people treating her any different. Is that even possible? I love the concept of the winner's game so much that we have incorporated it into our family. It truly is a life changing game! I personally rate this novel a 5 out of 5 stars and even cried when telling my husband about it. We both teared up as I told him how it all ended. That to me is a sign of a great novel when it can pull at your heart strings!

For more information about The Winner's Game, Kevin Alan Milne or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

The Winner's Game by Kevin Alan Milne

You can find Kevin Alan Milne on Facebook to stay up to date on all his latest novels.

To read more reviews on The Winner's Game, please visit Center Street's Website. 

Shadowed By Grace

"YOU HAVE ONCE CHANCE to make this fly." Bobby Hamilton leaned across his broad desk and stared her down." I had to pull more strings than I knew I had to get the brass to bite on sending a woman to Italy. Who sends a woman to a worn-torn country? Getting credentials? What a mess." The man waved his beefy hands down in a dismissive gesture. "Then getting you on the Queen Mary?" He chomped hard on his cigar.

Rachel perched on the chair in his crowded office as the Andrew Sisters belted out "Bogie Woogie Bugle Boy" on the small Kadette radio sitting atop a stack of papers on Bobby's overloaded credenza. She kept her back so straight her men's-style tailored blazer pulled her shoulders back.

She didn't blink, couldn't give a single sign of weakness. Her editor may have taken all those steps, but she'd had to convince him first, all while watching her mother waste away day by day.

"I hope you know what you're doing, Justice."

"I do." she put as much force behind the word as she could without shouting.

He leaned back in his chair, unlit cigar poised to punctuate a thought. "You've got talent. A way with that camera."

She stroked the case, feeling as if it naturally extended from her.

"Don't let me down. Send back photos that will wow readers." He didn't have to mention his bosses.

"Yes, sir." Rachel lurched to her feet and straightened her skirt's front pleat as she hurried from the room before he could call her back.

:There was so much to do. Too much before she could join the mass of soldiers and handful of civilians who would cross the Atlantic aboard the HMS Queen Mary. If she hurried, she could finish cleaning the apartment and still make it to the hospital before visiting hours ended. It was a stop Rachel had to make, yet dreaded. How could she explain to her mother what she was doing while hiding her secondary purpose?"(Excerpt.)

In the latest novel from best selling author Cara C Putman, Shadowed by Grace takes readers into the heart of Italy in 1944 following United Press photography Rachel Justice as she attempts to locate her father whom she believes can help provide the money to help her mother battle tuberculosis and get well. The only clue she has is her mother's journal and a sketchbook from an artist with the initials RMA.

Her only ally in the process is Lieutenant Scott Lindstorm who is assigned as an officer with the Monuments, Fine Arts, and Archives Division to escort Rachel along the way to shot photographs for the division in need of good press. He was there to help shore up classic buildings that had stood since the Roman Empire that aerial bombings destroyed. Or locate priceless pieces of art created by the masters of the thirteenth century to ensure the fighting hadn't destroyed them. Or plan for the restoration of those that had been touched by the war. The tales that art disappeared behind the lines made it more important than ever that he leave the city for the locations where the sculpture, paintings and altarpieces were housed. He wasn't looking for a tagalong.

What ensues will cause them both to question their true purpose for being in Italy during WWII and in the process find a much deeper meaning into why their paths crossed after all!

I received Shadowed by Grace by Cara C. Putman compliments of Litfuse Publicity and B and H Publishing Group for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed are strictly my own. This took me into a side of the war I never knew existed as a division of men know as the Monument Men, protected the culture of the country by guarding and locating precious works of art. This is based on true life events that transpired during the war along with a touch of romance to keep the story interesting. Being a huge fan of WWII history I absolutely LOVED this and wanted to know how it would all play out with WWII Italy being the backdrop. I was not disappointed and easily give this novel a 4.5 out of 5 stars.

For more information about Shadowed by Grace, Cara C Putman or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Shadowed by Grace by Cara C. Putman

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

To read more reviews on Shadowed by Grace please visit the Litfuse Publicity Book Tour page. 

• Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: B&H Books (January 1, 2014)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1433681781
• ISBN-13: 978-1433681783
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.5 x 1 inches 

Cara Putman is celebrating her latest historical suspense novel, Shadowed by Grace with a fun "Past & Present" giveaway! 

One winner will receive:

• A Polaroid Instant Camera
• A beautiful antique AFGRA camera (learn more here)
• Movie passes to see The Monuments Men movie (with George Clooney and Matt Damon)
• Shadowed By Grace by Cara Putman

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on February 8th. Winner will be announced February 10th on Cara's blog.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to stop by Cara's blog on the 10th to see if you won.

Once Upon A Winter's Heart

As Emma Burcelli heads home to her Nona's after learning of the death of her Poppi, she wonders if the last of the true romantic men has truly died as well. It seems like her Nona and Poppi's marriage was the perfect role model of what a happily ever after marriage really looked like, and after all the men she has ever met, there has been no one like Poppi. Guess all the good ones really are gone.

Leaving her marketing job in Seattle far behind after sensing this truly wasn't the dream job for her, she now has more than enough time to help her Nona get settled and help with the funeral arrangements. When she arrives at her Nona's home in the mountains, the last person she expected to see there was her mother. Thinking the worst, she heads inside only to learn that her mother has left her father. It seems that even her own parents couldn't make romance and love work in their own marriage living more like room mates than husband and wife. Oh sure, they could make it look good on the outside for appearances sake, but to those that really knew them like family, it was only a matter of time before things took a toll on either of them.

But her Nona's home wasn't situated for both of them to sleep properly and knowing her mother, Emma only believed it was a matter of time before her mother high tailed it back home. Without all the luxuries she had come to enjoy, living in a simple fashion hardly suited her mother including sleeping in a twin sized bed alongside Emma. Knowing that Valentine's day was truly something to be celebrated at her grandfather's bookstore, Nona asks Emma to help make sure all the decorations are up. But with romance and love being the furthest thing from her mind, Emma is the epitome of the Valentine's Day grouch. But when Lane Forester shows up late one rainy night, she wonder if the man her grandfather was mentoring could truly be her prince charming after all. The only thing standing in her way, is that her perfect blonde sister Anne has already claimed Lane as her boyfriend and has asked Emma to back off. But is it really that simple?

I received Once Upon A Winter's Heart by Melody Carlson compliments of Center Street, a division of Hachette Book Groups for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own. This is such a charming and heartwarming book perfect as a gift for Valentine's day or anytime you want that wonderful feeling of falling in love all over again. Grab a glass of wine, some of your favorite chocolates and don't forget to add just the right music, Dean Martin and you've got the perfect recipe for love! I easily give this one a 5 out of 5 stars!

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

Once Upon A Winter's Heart by Melody Carlson

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

To read more reviews on Once Upon A Winter's Heart, please visit Center Streets Website. 

• Paperback: 160 pages
• Publisher: Center Street (January 7, 2014)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1455528110
• ISBN-13: 978-1455528110
• Product Dimensions: 8 x 5.2 x 0.5 inches

Merry Humbug Christmas

This time of the year, I love it when you can find some really remarkable Christmas novels that are so good you know that they would make an incredible movie. There hasn't been any great Christmas movies in quite some time but Merry Humbug Christmas provides an outlet in that case. The novel from author Sandra D Bricker is a two for one that combines two unique characters and divides the novel into two separate Christmas tales with a flair for humor and laughter.

Once Upon a Jingle Bells takes Joss Snow into unexpected places for Christmas. Growing up with a formal name of Merry Christmas Snow, a play on words she says can be used in Wheel of Fortune's Before and After puzzle, she decided to change her name after her parents were killed during the Christmas season. Now she swears off of celebrating the season at any cost and has enlisted her best friend Reese in this endeavor until this year. Reese is now engaged and so Joss is on her own. She books a cruise to the Mexican Riviera that is supposed to be a Bah Humbug cruise and when the cruise is cancelled she finds herself rebooked on the 12 Fun Days of Christmas cruise instead with no way out. You can only imagine how this one plays on when your stuck on a ship with Christmas celebrations at literally every corner. Will she be able to avoid catching more than the Christmas spirit after all?

The novel concludes with Reese's story in It Came Upon a Midnight Deer where we find Reese and her fiancè Damian heading to his family's cabin in Sugar Loaf to celebrate Christmas and for Reese to meet the family. While Reese may have had good intentions on making the best impression on meeting her new in-laws, this tale takes a turn for the completely unexpected beginning with a car accident on the road to the family home in which they literally hit a deer. While the deer is injured, it is able to hobble off into the night leaving Reese and Damian stranded in the snow with no phone service and their only out is a two mile hike in the snow. The laughs only build from this point on when literally NOTHING works out like Reese wants and she soon wonder if she is really cut out to marry into this family after all.

I received Merry Humbug Christmas by Sandra D Bricker compliments of Christian Fiction Blog Alliance and B and H Publishing Group for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed are strictly my own. This was truly a breath of fresh air and I LOVED every single moment of this story. I love how Sandra combined the two best friends stories into two separate ones but still felt the overlap in what happened to both during an unexpected change in their Christmas plans. This is one of my favorite Christmas stories this year because it adds humor and laughter to the joy of the season and we all know it doesn't always work out as planned. I easily give this one a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion. Can't wait for more novels from Sandra in the future.

For more information about Merry Humbug Christmas, Sandra D. Bricker or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Merry Humbug Christmas by Sandra D. Bricker

You can also find Sandra D. Bricker on Facebook to stay up to date with all her novels.

To read more reviews on Merry Humbug Christmas from the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance book tour, please click here. 

• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: B&H Books (October 15, 2013)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1433680750
• ISBN-13: 978-1433680755
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.5 x 0.9 inches

A Marriage in Middlebury

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

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

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

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

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

A Marriage in Middlebury by Anita Higman

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

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

• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: Abingdon Press (November 5, 2013)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1426733879
• ISBN-13: 978-1426733871
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 0.9 inches

Anita Higman is celebrating the release of her latest book, A Marriage in Middlebury, with a double Kindle Fire giveaway (one for you & one to give away!) and a "Tea for Two" Facebook Author Chat Party on December 12th.

One winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire for you AND a friend
• A Marriage in Middlebury by Anita Higman (one to keep and one to give away!)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on December 12th. Winner will be announced at the "Tea for Two" Facebook Author Chat Party on December 12th. Invite your friends and connect with Anita for an evening of book chat, prizes, and an exclusive look at Anita's next book!

So grab your copy of A Marriage in Middlebury and join Anita on the evening of December 12th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN at the event page. Spread the word — tell your friends about the giveaway and party via FACEBOOK or TWITTER. Hope to see you on 12/12!

Paige Rewritten

"There are things in my life that I would like to be permanent. Nail polish that permanently stayed on my toenails. Hair that permanently stayed away from my legs. Sweet tea that was permanently in my fridge.

Luke is not one of those things I want permanently in my life. Or even in my city.

My mom likes to say that good things come in threes. "Remember that time we went to see The Phantom of the Opera, Paige?" she always says to me. "Not only did our seats get upgraded for free, but we won those tickets to go see Wicked and we met Mariah Carey!"

By met, Mom meant "saw from a distance," and to this day, I still sear it was not Mariah Carey.

And if it was her, then I really feel the need to tell her that cornrows are not a flattering hairstyle for her.

I'm curious what Mom would say about my current situation. I really don't think I am looking at three good things.

Maybe three confusing things.

Not not good things. 

Paige Alder is ready for some permanence in her life. For one, a job that allows her to utilize the college degree in counseling that she worked hard to achieve, not being a secretary until the day she dies working for Lawman Adoption Agency. Even with the promotion offer sitting on the table to make more money for doing exactly what she's been doing all along leaves her wanting more.

She has been trying to figure out her personal life as well with Tyler Jennings. She isn't sure if they are strictly great friends who do things whenever they can or if he wants something more than just someone to hang out with of the opposite sex. And then there is Luke Prestwick, her ex-boyfriend who has decided to move back to town and wants to see if there is a possibility to start over again. Decisions, decisions just what is a girl to do?

On top of that, her long lost sister, Preslee has come home with news that she has found God and wants a relationship with her family again including Paige. But is it really that easy to simply forgive despite all the pain she has inflicted on her parents as well as herself when she decided she didn't need them in her life any longer?

I received Paige Rewritten by Erynn Mangum compliments of NavPress and Christian Fiction Blog Alliance for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own. Once again Erynn has done it again. I absolutely LOVE this series, possibly because I find myself living in Paige Alder's shoes! Such decisions that she has to deal with and wondering just where she is going in life. At some point she has to deal with her sister returning to the family fold and while her parents are easy to forgive, Paige isn't. Like a contemporary twist on the prodigal son, Paige finds herself relating to the older son from the Bible story more than she'd like and even the advice she hands out to her high school girls in Bible Study about forgiveness hard to swallow. How can she talk about the ability for them to forgive people who have hurt them, when she is having a difficult time doing the same? I have to warn you however, this one does end on a cliff hanger and will make you wish the third novel in the series was available immediately! For me, this one once again hits a stellar homerun for my book lover's heart and I give this one a 5 out of 5 stars.

This is the second novel in the Paige Alder series, with Paige Torn being the first. While you don't have to read the first one to truly LOVE this one, I would highly recommend it. Erynn's writing style is so easy going, you truly feel like you're more than just reading this novel. You feel like you're living it!  Don't let the cover fool you, you'll want to pick this entire series up! For more information about Paige Rewritten, Erynn Mangum or where to pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

Paige Rewritten by Erynn Mangum

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

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

• Series: Paige Alder Series (Book 2)
• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: NavPress (September 7, 2013)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1612913210
• ISBN-13: 978-1612913216
• Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.5 x 0.9 inches

Annie's Christmas Wish

It's not often you find a great Christmas novel with a compelling and lasting message regarding extended family, but I think Barbara Cameron has managed to do just that with Annie's Christmas Wish, book 4 in her Quilts of Lancaster County Series. This is perfect for those that enjoy Amish fiction or even a great contemporary romance because that is exactly the blend that Barbara has managed to create.

Annie Bontrager knows that she desires to become a writer at some point in her life. She carries around a notebook so that she can capture whatever thoughts or ideas come to her wherever she might be like all great writers do. She carries that inspiration from being around her step mother Jenny who was a famous newspaper reporter when she used to live in New York City. Jenny was raised English and thus was never really subject to the terms one usually finds in an Amish community. However when a bomb exploded while covering a story on children who were living in a war zone, she found comfort and love recovering in the Amish community of Paradise, Pennsylvania under her grandmother's care. It was there she discovered healing and love in the being reunited with David, Annie's father who was born Amish but decided not to join the church and in a way incorporated the love of both English and Amish upbringing in the children. Annie's mother died when she was just a child and had known no other mother but Jenny. To her, she was as real as a mother could be.

The family is on the brink of making a trip to New York City for vacation and Jenny hopes to show Annie not only the major tourist sites but also take her on a tour to her old office as well as to the New York Times, something Annie has only dreamed about doing for as long as she can remember. All she knows is that the desire to write is just as strong in her blood as it was for her mother and even though she knows at some point she might find love, she isn't the least bit interested right now.

Yet Aaron Beiler who has grown up with Annie as a close childhood friend has been making plans for what he believes will be his future with Annie working as a carpenter and furniture maker in town. Now if only he can convince Annie that his feelings go beyond that of just her friend and into something more. With the trip to New York coming up however, Aaron fears that Annie's love for writing might take her someplace she may never want to return. He just want's a wife that will take care of the home and any future children they might have and leave making a living up to him. What if Annie goes to New York and decides to never return? Is there anything he can do to change her mind?

I received Annie's Christmas Wish by Barbara Cameron compliments of Abingdon Press for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are mind alone. This is such an incredible book and one of the few that really reach to the heart of what really makes a family even though in this case it is a blended one. Annie sees the relationship with Jenny as that of what a mother/daughter relationship is as well as one with Jenny as her friend as well. Jenny never tries to replace Annie's birth mother but gives her the room and the time to accept her as she is in her role as a mother and wife in their family. It also shows how difficult our choices can be when it comes to the true desires of our hearts, in this case with Annie's love of writing and how she will have to make a choice that will forever change the relationship in her family and possibly her community as well. I rate this one a 4.5 out of 5 stars and think this makes the perfect Christmas addition to The Quilts of Lancaster County series!

For more information about Annie's Christmas Wish, Barbara Cameron or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

Annie's Christmas Wish by Barbara Cameron

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

To read more reviews on Annie's Christmas Wish, please visit Abingdon Press' website. 

• Series: Quilts of Lancaster County (Book 4)
• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: Abingdon Press (October 1, 2013)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1426733895
• ISBN-13: 978-1426733895
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.4 x 0.9 inches