Saturday, May 31, 2014

Saving Amelie Book Review

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 About the Book
 Increasingly wary of her father's genetic research, Rachel Kramer has determined that this trip with him to Germany--in the summer of 1939--will be her last. But a cryptic letter from her estranged friend, begging Rachel for help, changes everything. Married to SS officer Gerhardt Schlick, Kristine sees the dark tides turning and fears her husband views their daughter, Amelie, deaf since birth, as a blight on his Aryan bloodline.Once courted by Schlick, Rachel knows he's as dangerous as the swastikas that hang like ebony spiders from every government building in Berlin. She fears her father's files may hold answers about Hitler's plans for others, like Amelie, whom the regime deems "unworthy of life." She risks searching his classified documents only to uncover shocking secrets about her own history and a family she's never known.Now hunted by the SS, Rachel turns to Jason Young--a driven, disarming American journalist and unlikely ally--who connects her to the resistance and to controversial theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Forced into hiding, Rachel's every ideal is challenged as she and Jason walk a knife's edge, risking their lives--and asking others to do the same--for those they barely know but come to love. (Goodreads)




My Review
Simply fantastic. Cathy Gohlke is a very talented writer and really does her research. This books was as good I as I had hoped, I really couldn't put it down. I have read her previous books but this just might be my favorite. Set through the course of the second World War she takes us to the reality of a past time. This book was from the perspective of a young woman who knew nothing of what was really going on and who was to be used by powerful men in Germany. Being forced to take a trip to Germany shortly before war started she finds out that there is a lot more to going on and now she needs to save one very sweet little girl. This book took many twists that I was not expecting and I really enjoyed the characters. I enjoyed the historical aspect and the details on what the scientists were doing and planning long before the war. Genetics and sterilization are discussed at length and I found it all fascinating. There is a romance story but it's not the main focus, which I actually enjoyed. 

If you enjoy history I highly recommend!! 
★★★★★, I loved it. 

Must read! Reads like Liz Tolsma and The Book Thief by Markus Zusak. 




"I received this book from Tyndale Publishers for free in exchange for an honest review."

Just Do Something Book Review





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 About the Book

A Liberating Approach to Finding God's Will or How to Make a Decision Without Dreams, Visions, Fleeces, Impressions, Open Doors, Random Bible Verses, Casting Lots, Liver Shivers, Writing in the Sky, etc.

Hyper-spiritual approaches to finding God's will don't work. It's time to try something new: Give up.

Pastor and author Kevin DeYoung counsels Christians to settle down, make choices, and do the hard work of seeing those choices through. Too often, he writes, God's people tinker around with churches, jobs, and relationships, worrying that they haven't found God's perfect will for their lives. Or—even worse—they do absolutely nothing, stuck in a frustrated state of paralyzed indecision, waiting . . . waiting . . . waiting for clear, direct, unmistakable direction.

But God doesn't need to tell us what to do at each fork in the road. He's already revealed his plan for our lives: to love him with our whole hearts, to obey His Word, and after that, to do what we like.

No need for hocus-pocus. No reason to be directionally challenged. Just do something. (Goodreads)



My Review

I really enjoyed this short easy-to-read book. For me personally I could not have found this book at a better time. I really want to do what God wants me to do, so I pray wondering  what in the world am I suppose to do. This book had a new approach to the idea that I really liked. Instead of waiting around thinking you are waiting for God's will, sometimes you just have to do something. The author talks about how my generation has become lazy, which is true, and how we expect a lot more out of life than our ancestors did. I agree with this as well. 

"We don't just want His word that He will be with us; we want Him to show us the end from the beginning and prove to us that He can be trusted. We want to know what tomorrow will bring instead of being content with simple obedience on the journey. And so we obsess about the future and we get anxious, because anxiety, after all, is simply living out the future before it gets here." (Just Do Something Page 45)

He also writes James 4:13-15 where God says you don't know what is going to happen tomorrow and God is in control. 

There were a few things that I didn't agree with on his thoughts of marriage except that we need to be equally yoked. 
Live your life to the glory of God is the main idea with this book and I liked it. It's a fresh approach and it's all based on what the Bible says in context. 

I highly recommend!

★★★★★, I loved it. 

"I received this book from MP Newsroom for free in exchange for an honest review."







Friday, May 30, 2014

A Deadly Business Book Review


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About the Book

If the hours don't kill you, the accused just might.

Mia Quinn is a Seattle prosecutor working on high profile cases in the Violent Crimes unit while juggling the impossible demands of single parenthood. Her husband, Scott, was killed in a car crash that homicide detective Charlie Carlson now believes was no accident. Charlie's instincts and professional record make it impossible for Mia to refute the evidence she'd rather not believe.

When the powers that be refuse to reopen the case, it's up to Mia and Charlie to investigate, all the while trying to deny a growing attraction between them. Was her accountant husband really in league with nefarious criminals? And who is the young woman whose photo they find on his computer?

Uncovering the truth may hurt Mia in more ways than one. (Goodreads)


My Review


I have become a fan of Lis Wiehl since having read the first Mia Quinn mystery. I think I enjoyed this book more so but both are really good! I was more frustrated in trying to figure out what happened then kept in suspense. There were about three different story lines going on throughout the book but Wiehl did a great job in combining them all together and having them all end. The ending ends a bit fast but I look forward to reading what happens next in Mia's life.
I really liked the mystery stories and I found them believable. There were a few times when one character "swears" the words aren't on the page it just says "he swore" or used strong language.
This is a mystery with crime scenes, murder, cheating spouses, and drugs. But the author uses tact in writing about these topics.
I love how the author wove everything together and included Mia's personal life with her children.
If you enjoy mysteries or suspense this is a great book!


★★★★★, I loved it.  

** Look for this book June 10th!

*You don't have to read the first book in the series ,this book can stand alone, but I recommend reading both!



"I received this book from BookLook Bloggers for free in exchange for an honest review."





Thursday, May 29, 2014

The Good Book Movie Review





About the Movie

The Good Book movie is the first evangelical silent feature to be released since sound was added to movies.  It tells the story of a small New Testament that is passed along from individual to individual. These include young and old, rich and poor, blessed and forsaken. For seven of the strangers, it provides hope and meaning when they need it most. 


Mainstreet Productions husband and wife team Fred and Sharon Wilharm produced their first faith-based feature in 2000. The Good Book  movie is their fifth. Past movies include Class of 91 and Flowers for Fannie. When he's not making movies, Fred is busy producing commercials, web videos, and music videos. Sharon is the editor/ writer for Faith Flix, a blog focused on faith-based filmmaking. 

My Review


When I first heard about this movie I was like, "Silent movie? Would anyone watch it?" I went on to discover one of the reasons why they went silent-everyone was complaining about cheesy lines from other Christian films. So take the speaking out and there you have a silent movie. I was really surprised at how well done this was made. The music is perfect, the acting is actually quite good, and the main story lines hit home base. The movie goes through a lot of stories based upon people who receive this small Bible. Each person hands it to the next and the viewer watches how it can effect that person. The story lines are very real and hit close to home, they don't sugar coat pain that people experience. While yes, everything is silent except the music, I really didn't feel like I needed words. I knew what was happening and it had the same effect on me as it would with words. 
I will admit I think it ran a little long. I enjoyed the movie but by the end I told myself it had to end sometime. 

Overall I really enjoyed this movie much more than I thought I would. 

I highly recommend anyone to watch it! You will be surprised at how much you enjoy it. 






"I received this film for free in exchange for an honest review."












 



Dead Sea Salt Deep Hair Conditioner Review





 Product Information
Made with Real Dead Sea Salt - 100% Pure and Genuine for an infusion of 21 Minerals Essential to Proper Skin and Hair Function. Leaves Hair Looking Hydrated, Healthy and Silky. Helps to Reduce the appearance of Dandruff and Dry, Flaky Scalp. Aloe Vera Deeply Nourishes the Scalp and Hair - Hydrating it from Within. Dead Sea Salt contains more than 21 skin and hair rebuilding minerals such as magnesium, calcium, sulfur, bromide, iodine, sodium, zinc and potassium. 
Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.




 My Review

I like having soft silky hair, not the dry frizzy mess I wake up to every morning. This conditioner  worked really well with my hair and skin. It did not irritate and it got the job done. While I wouldn't say my hair has magically gotten softer, I do like how it works in my hair. My skin is really sensitive and while I know this is for hair it also touches the scalp and it didn't irritate at all.
If you are in search for something new, give this conditioner a try!





I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

Until I Found You Book Review









ABOUT THE BOOK


Finding each other was only the beginning . . .

When Kate Darby swerves off a mountain road to avoid hitting a California condor, she ends up trapped in her car, teetering on the edge of a cliff. Terrified, she breathes a prayer that changes her life.

It's Nick Sheridan who comes to Kate's rescue. Nick is handsome and confident, and he seems to develop a habit of rescuing her, but Kate is in town only until her grandmother recuperates from a stroke. She's not planning to get involved with one of the locals.

Nick is a reformed veteran of life in the fast lane, a new Christian, and a travel writer. When he sees a car dangling on the edge of a cliff, the daredevil in him jumps into action. He doesn't expect to be swept off his feet by the car's occupant. He's made a vow--no dating for a year--but keeping that vow is going to be a lot more difficult now that he's met Kate Darby. . . .

If you'd like to read the first chapter of Until I Found You, go HERE.







My Review 

I was looking forward to this book and to be honest I just could not get into the story. The first few chapters are gripping and the story starts to get interesting. But the romance went way too fast in a way that I just wanted to skip over those parts. I like Nick's character a lot though and I found that he seemed to have a lot more depth than Kate. The rest of the book went slow. I did like how God works in the book within the characters. 

★★★☆☆ I liked the details listed above.




"I received this book from CFBA for free in exchange for an honest review."

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Until I Found You
Bethany House Publishers (May 6, 2014)
by
Victoria Bylin


ABOUT THE AUTHOR: A word from the Author:

This may sound crazy, but I was driven to write romance by giant bugs and killer rabbits. I just couldn't take it anymore. My husband and two sons would be camped in front of the television watching a movie about spiders the size of bowling balls, and I'd be wondering when the handsome scientist would get around to kissing the spunky woman with the bug spray. When it didn't happen, I decided to write my own happy endings--without the giant bugs...

Known for her realistic, likable characters and vivid writing, Victoria Bylin writes both western and contemporary inspirational romance. Her books have finaled in the ACFW Carol Awards, the Rita Awards and RT Magazine’s Reviewers’ Choice Awards. She and her husband currently live in Lexington, Kentucky and have two grown sons.




Tuesday, May 27, 2014

A Triple Knot Book Review

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About the Book

 Joan of Kent, renowned beauty and cousin to King Edward III, is destined for a politically strategic marriage. As the king begins a long dynastic struggle to claim the crown of France, plunging England into the Hundred Years’ War, he negotiates her betrothal to a potential ally and heir of a powerful lordship.

But Joan, haunted by nightmares of her father’s execution at the hands of her treacherous royal kin, fears the king’s selection and is not resigned to her fate. She secretly pledges herself to one of the king’s own knights, one who has become a trusted friend and protector. Now she must defend her vow as the king—furious at Joan’s defiance—prepares to marry her off to another man.

In A Triple Knot, Emma Campion brings Joan, the “Fair Maid of Kent” to glorious life, deftly weaving details of King Edward III’s extravagant court into a rich and emotionally resonant tale of intrigue, love, and betrayal. (Goodreads)





 My Review

I really enjoy historical fiction. I enjoy it even more if I know the story is based upon a real person. This book is about Joan of Kent whom I really hadn't ever heard of until I opened this book. After reading the book I went on to search more of her history and found the book to be fairly true to the real life. Granted no one really knows what happened behind closed doors but it really is interesting to read about how people lived. Bartering for marriages and royalty and the "scandalous" things that went on. Some of the scenes in the book did get a bit racy when it came to the bedroom but honestly for not being a Christian book, it was kept pretty clean. There was a little bit of language but not often or a lot.
Some parts of the book got a bit long and drawn out, rather dull, but the historical details were fascinating. Joan was quite a woman, while I don't know what I would have done in her situation.This book made me more interested in her history and those around her. Her marriages (how confusing!) and life were like one big soap opera but it was her reality.

For those who don't really enjoy history you probably won't like this book. For those that like history and this time period you might enjoy this look into Joan of Kent.

★★★★☆, I liked it a lot for the historical aspect.



"I received this book from Blogging for Books for free in exchange for an honest review."









Monday, May 26, 2014

A Stitch and a Prayer Book Review


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About the Book


After her fiancé returns from the Klondike gold rush in 1897, Florence Harms sets about building a new life in her new marriage—even though the lingering effects of illness have left her weak and vulnerable. She and her young husband, Will, work tirelessly to clear the land around their Northwest cabin, content with their modest life. But then a stranger comes knocking and Florence suddenly senses a restlessness in Will’s spirit that she had never seen before. When he leaves her with only a note that tells her he will return before their baby’s birth, she is devastated, and the illness that stiffened her joints returns. Counting the days until Will walks back through her door, Florence busies herself with a Tree of Life quilt displaying a map of the farm they call home. Doubts claw at her heart as Florence struggles to believe Will’s promise to return to her. Will her labor of love—and faith in God—sustain her as she waits to see her beloved once again?
If you would like to read the first chapter of A Stitch and A Prayer, go HERE.

My Review

I really like the cover on this book, I admit it sucked me in. I liked the first few chapters of the book and then the story got really slow for me. I enjoyed reading about the pioneer lifestyle and making a new home. I enjoyed Florence and how she deals with Will leaving her a note saying he left. Near the end of the book it was hard for me to believe what was happening but it's a sweet story. The overall story is good it was a just a slow read for me. I loved the details about the quilt!
If you have read the other Quilts of Love books you will enjoy this one! 

"I received this book from CFBA for free in exchange for an honest review."





This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
A Stitch and A Prayer
Abingdon Press (May 20, 2014)
by
Eva Gibson


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

(No image available) Eva Gibson is the author of twenty books, including A Stitch and a Prayer, the latest release in the Quilts of Love series from Abingdon Fiction. She currently teaches Writing Your Life Story classes for Portland Community College and is an active member of Oregon Christian Writers. She has lived most of her life on the family farm in Wilsonville, Oregon, which is the setting for her novel.

Saturday, May 24, 2014

Signed, Sealed, Delivered New Hallmark TV Show Review

Signed, Sealed, Delivered 
The new original series "Signed, Sealed, Delivered" is a wonderful combination of romance, comedy and drama that follows the lives of four postal detectives who transform themselves into a team of detectives to track down intended recipients of undeliverable mail. Their missions take them out of the office where redirected letters and packages can save lives, solve crimes, reunite old loves and change futures by arriving late but somehow always on time. The team includes charming Oliver O’Toole (Eric Mabius), the group's leader is a man of faith who prayerfully approaches his work with the goal of making a difference in people's lives; new team member, Shane McInerney (Kristin Booth), a technophile who brings 21st century sensibility to the group; free-spirited, “girl next door” Rita Haywith (Crystal Lowe) who has a photographic memory; and lovable Norman Dorman (Geoff Gustafson), a master in conventional research methods.
The show aires SUNDAYS, 8/7c on Hallmark

This incredible series even incorporates scripture in its themes and in the conversations between characters.  In FACT, The American Bible Society has built a bible study to go with the series, 
Isn't that great? A seven-day Bible reading experience to dig deeper into the meaningful biblical themes revealed in each episode of Signed, Sealed, Delivered.
 My Review
This is a sweet new show. Having watched the first episode I would say, while many of the scenes were rather cheesy, I liked the underlining storyline. It was fun to watch the U.S. Postal Service become detectives and track down someone who had lost their mail. Everyone has a story and it's neat how one piece of mail could change so many things. The characters are likable and I can see how they will make a great first season. The secondary story line I did not enjoy watching but overall from what I can tell, this is a family friendly clean show.


"Thanks to FlyBy Promotions for letting me watch the first episode and review it."

For the Sender Book Review



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About the Book



Author and singer-songwriter Alex Woodard was in the audience, waiting to be called to the stage to perform at New York Times bestselling author Dr. Wayne Dyer’s lecture presentation in New York. Dr. Dyer’s daughter had written him a letter, and Alex had crafted a song about the letter in the spirit of his first Hay House release (For The Sender: Four Letters. Twelve Songs. One Story.). Any moment now, Alex would be asked to play it for the sold-out auditorium.
      But first Scarlett Lewis was invited to the stage. Scarlett’s son was a six-year-old hero who died saving his friends’ lives in the Newtown, Connecticut, elementary-school massacre, and her words of love rang deep through the packed house as she told her story. Alex noticed that Scarlett described love more as an action and less as a feeling, and made a mental note to speak to her after the presentation. Scarlett would soon send Alex a letter—and coupled with the letter from Dr. Dyer’s daughter, the foundation would be set for Alex’s spring 2014 release For The Sender: Love Is (Not A Feeling).

      Through those letters (and three other inspiring examples), and songs from platinum-selling artists written about them, Alex weaves his own story of discovery as he sifts through the competing messages we receive daily about the most powerful of human experiences: love. He challenges mainstream media, the self-help establishment, and the reader to re-examine what really matters: what we actually do, for ourselves and each other. The end result is a deeply empowering reading and listening experience that will be featured in Dr. Dyer’s 2014 PBS special and on stages nationwide this spring. (Goodreads)




 My Review

While I enjoyed the overall idea of this book it didn't flow easily for me. I enjoyed reading the point of view from Alex and the CD that came along with the book. What I liked the most out of this book were the many details that Alex writes about. Details that most people don't notice in life help people see things from a new point of view. Alex does notice and writes about it. There is a lot more to life and this book brings out so many things that real life includes. 


I rate three stars.

"I received this book from Hay House Publishers for free in exchange for an honest review."










Thursday, May 22, 2014

Out of the Ruins Book Review


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About the Book

While her sister lies on her deathbed, Abby Fischer prays for a miracle. What Abby doesn’t expect, however, is for God’s answer to come in the form of the handsome Dr. Robert King, whose experimental treatment is risky at best.

As they work together toward a cure, Abby’s feelings for Robert become hopelessly entangled. Separated by the tragedy of the mighty San Francisco earthquake, their relationship suddenly takes a back seat to survival. With fires raging throughout the city, Abby fears for her life as she flees alone through burning streets. Where is God now? Will Robert find Abby, even as the world burns around them? Or has their love fallen with the ruins of the city? (Goodreads)



My Review

I really enjoyed this book! There are so many different things that go on within the pages of this book, I couldn't put it down. Not only is it set during the San Francisco earthquake but it has an entire story leading up to that time. I thought the entire book would be about the earthquake but the real story is about Abby and her relationship with her sister. I actually really found her sister's sickness fascinating because I had no idea that doctors even knew about Leukemia at this point in time. They go on to experiment with X-Rays and try to help her survive. I'm usually not into the medical side of things but this part was interesting. I also enjoyed how the author writes about Abby's anger with God because she didn't make it easy. Many books make forgiveness too easy when in reality it's difficult.
I enjoyed the romance but it is not the main focus. The earthquake details were interesting as well, I've always enjoyed reading about the history surrounded the disaster.
I rate five stars!

"I received this book from Litfuse for free in exchange for an honest review."  










While Love Stirs Book Review

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About the Book

 After graduating from Fannie Farmer's School of Cookery in 1910, Charlotte Gregory is ready to stir things up. She is thrilled to have the opportunity to travel, lecture, and give cooking demonstrations on the very latest kitchen revolution--the gas stove--and certainly doesn't mind that the gas company has hired the handsome Lewis Mathis to perform at her lectures. Lewis encourages her work, especially her crusade to introduce fresh, appetizing, nutritious food to those convalescing in hospitals. But young hospital superintendent Dr. Joel Brooks is not convinced any changes should be made--especially by this outspoken young woman.

When Charlotte and Joel are coerced into planning a fund-raising gala for the hospital, will this combustible pair explode?

Fan favorite Lorna Seilstad is back with a breezy, lighthearted love triangle that will keep readers guessing. Attention to historic detail adorns the timeless story of a young woman looking for true love and making her way in a rapidly changing world.(Goodreads)

 My Review

I did not read the first book prior to reading this book, as it is about sisters with separate stories I didn't feel like I missed much. This book was unique because the cooking aspect went into great detail. Think cooking show only early 1900s era. Charlotte's character was difficult for me to relate with but I did enjoy her attitude. The first part of the book was intriguing but slowly I started to lose interest. 
It's a sweet story, yet predictable but a fun short read.


 "I received this book from Revell for free in exchange for an honest review."












Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Here is Where Book Review




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About the Book

Here Is Where chronicles Andrew Carroll’s eye-opening – and at times hilarious -- journey across America to find and explore unmarked historic sites where extraordinary moments occurred and remarkable individuals once lived. Sparking the idea for this book was Carroll’s visit to the spot where Abraham Lincoln’s son was saved by the brother of Lincoln’s assassin. Carroll wondered, How many other unmarked places are there where intriguing events have unfolded and that we walk past every day, not realizing their significance? To answer that question, Carroll ultimately trekked to every region of the country -- by car, train, plane, helicopter, bus, bike, and kayak and on foot. Among the things he learned:

*Where in North America the oldest sample of human DNA was discovered

* Where America’s deadliest maritime disaster took place, a calamity worse than the fate of the Titanic

*Which virtually unknown American scientist saved hundreds of millions of lives

*Which famous Prohibition agent was the brother of a notorious gangster

*How a 14-year-old farm boy’s brainstorm led to the creation of television

Featured prominently in Here Is Where are an abundance of firsts (from the first use of modern anesthesia to the first cremation to the first murder conviction based on forensic evidence); outrages (from riots to massacres to forced sterilizations); and breakthroughs (from the invention, inside a prison, of a revolutionary weapon; to the recovery, deep in the Alaskan tundra, of a super-virus; to the building of the rocket that made possible space travel). Here Is Where is thoroughly entertaining, but it’s also a profound reminder that the places we pass by often harbor amazing secrets and that there are countless other astonishing stories still out there, waiting to be found. (Goodreads)



My Review

I am a history lover. I saw this book and got excited. Most of the people I know on the other hand wouldn't take a second glance at this book. If you really enjoy history you will enjoy this book. It is a lot longer than I thought it would be and it's told in two parts. The author writes about what is going on while searching historical sites, then he continues on with what happened in the past. I liked this idea because it tells the reader what the current location is like and puts a better spin on reality.
The book is divided up and each story has it's own chapter. I enjoyed all of the stories 
Here is a quote that was in one of the stories that rings true, "There are some aspects of our history, I think, we'd just rather ignore." 
I enjoyed this unique peek into little known events and people that didn't make it into the history books. 


If you like historical facts, pick up this book.


"I received this book from Blogging for Books for free in exchange for an honest review."







Meant to Be Mine Book Review



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About the Book


Ty Porter has always been irresistible to Celia Park. All through high school--irresistible. When their paths cross again after college--still irresistible. This time, though, Ty feels exactly the same way about Celia. Their whirlwind romance deposits them at a street-corner Las Vegas wedding chapel.

The next morning they wake to a marriage certificate and a dose of cold reality. Celia's ready to be Ty's wife, but Ty's not ready to be anybody's husband. As a professional bull rider, he lives on the road and can't bring himself to settle down.

Five and a half years pass. Celia's buried her dreams so that she can afford to raise her daughter. Ty's achieved all of his goals. Or thought he had, until he looks again into the face of the one woman he couldn't forget and into the face of the child he never knew he had.

How much will Ty sacrifice to make Celia's dreams come true, to win her trust, and to prove to her that their spontaneous marriage can still become the love of a lifetime? (Goodreads)



My Review

Becky Wade never disappoints! This book is fantastic and I so highly recommend it! I have read Undeniably Yours, which was wonderful as well. This book can easily be read separately even though they are in the same series. Ty's brother is the leading man in the first book which is how they are connected. 
I loved all of the characters and Addie, Celia's daughter, is adorable and this book really brought out all of my emotions. While this is a romance story the overall plot has a lot of depth to it that is very well written. I loved reading the dialogue between Ty and Celia, I found is hilarious but also realistic. The secondary characters I loved because I could relate it to real life and that made it all the more humorous. 
Christianity is presented in a wonderful way which I really liked. 

While I'm not a huge fan of many contemporary romance books, Becky Wade has once again written a marvelous book that I could not put down. 
If you enjoy a mix of humor, a dash of romance, and a bunch of God's love you should read this book!


"I received this book from Bethany House Publishers for free in exchange for an honest review."


Website and social media links:


Short Bio:

Becky makes her home in Dallas, Texas with her husband, three children, and one adoring (and adored) cavalier spaniel. Her CBA debut, My Stubborn Heart, was a finalist in both the RITA and INSPY awards.  Undeniably Yours kicked off her Texas-set Porter Family series.  Her newest contemporary romance, Meant to Be Mine, has just hit shelves!












Daisies Are Forever Book Review




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About the Book
 
 Gisela must hold on to hope and love despite all odds in the midst of a war-torn country.

Gisela Cramer is an American living in eastern Germany with her cousin Ella Reinhardt. When the Red Army invades, they must leave their home to escape to safety in Berlin.

However, Ella is a nurse and refuses to leave, sending her young daughters with Gisela. During their journey, Gisela meets Mitch Edwards, an escaped British POW. She pretends she is his wife in order to preserve his safety among other Germans, especially one wounded German soldier, Kurt, who has suspicions about Mitch's identity. Kurt also has feelings for Gisela and tries to uncover the truth about her "marriage."

Their journey to Gisela's mother in Berlin is riddled with tragedy and hardship, but they strive to keep Ella's daughters safe so they can reunite with their mother. During the journey Gisela and Mitch begin to develop feelings for one another beyond friendship. They reach Berlin, but their struggles are far from over. Gisela and Mitch must learn to live for the day and find hope in the darkest of circumstances. (Goodreads)

In this moving, historically accurate portrayal of WWII Germany, the characters learn that, even with destruction all around them, some things last forever.






 My Review
I really loved the first book by Liz Tolsma, Snow on the Tulips. This book I did enjoy, just not as much. I loved the characters and the setting. Set during World War II this book takes you on an adventure of courage while Gisela and Mitch take young girls to safety. I enjoyed reading about the war torn countries and what was going on with the war to the people in the area. The romance I didn't really enjoy, it didn't really click with me and the story line. . If you enjoy history set in this time period, this book is very well written! If you aren't a big history fan I don't think you will enjoy this book, it's a heavy story with many details.
While this is a part of the Women of Courage series, each book can be read apart from the other.






"I received this book from Litfuse for free in exchange for an honest review."



Liz Tolsma's latest WWII historical fiction novel, Daisies are Forever, is getting rave reviews. 

". . . compelling and fast-paced tale about the atrocities and tremendous losses. . . ." —Library Journal

"Excellent storytelling, accurate historical reporting and gritty, persevering characters make this WWII-era novel a must-read." —CBA Retailers + Resources


daisies-400-click
Liz celebrating the release with a Kindle HDX giveaway!
One winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire HDX
  • Daisies are Forever by Liz Tolsma
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 31st. Winner will be announced June 2nd on Liz's website.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to stop by Liz's website on June 2nd to see if you won.

Monday, May 19, 2014

A Bridge Unbroken Book Review and eBook Giveaway!


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Mrs. Pedersen is the winner! I have emailed her to let her know. Thank you all for stopping by!

About the Book

Letting go to build a bridge…

Dakota Kelly wants her painful past to disappear. A plan to start afresh is derailed when she co-inherits her late grandfather’s farm with Chance Johnson, the man responsible for the scars on her heart. But Chance isn’t the only ghost from the past. Someone else is out to get her and will stop at nothing to get what he wants. Will Chance and Dakota lay aside their grudges to restore the old farmhouse and bridge, or will evil forces sabotage their attempt at forgiveness? (Goodreads)


My Review

This book was a great surprise for me to read. The author is new to me so I was excited to see how she wrote! This book reminded me a lot of Katie Ganshert's Wildflowers from Winter but with it's own unique twist. The plot is similar, Dakota returns to her hometown and tries to avoid a man from her past. Meanwhile, she is running from a mysterious someone who the reader does not completely understand "who" until the last part of the book. I really enjoyed the setting and the characters. I thought the romance was a bit rushed but I loved how I didn't know what was really going on with Dakota's past.
 The book is very well written and I highly recommend!! I am excited to read more from this author.
Fans of Katie Ganshert will enjoy this book.


"I received this book from the author for free in exchange for an honest review-Thank you!"


I am hosting an eBook giveaway on my blog for one of my readers. Enter through the rafflecopter below.
Giveaway ends May 21th.
a Rafflecopter giveaway







A BRIDGE UNBROKEN Character Interview (& Giveaway!)

Chance: (finger to lips) Shhhh! Don't tell Cathy. She's supposed to arrive here in a sec to interview me and Dakota. What she doesn't know is that we're gonna turn the interview around and put her in the hot seat for a change. After all, she's put us through the ringer in writing A Bridge Unbroken. It's only fair that we return the favor. Right? Oops, here she comes. (returns to seat and acts all nonchalant)

Cathy: (enters and moves to seat) Hey, you two. Y'all ready to get this interview underway?

Chance: (with a smirk and a sideways glance exchanged with Dakota) Of course. Why wouldn't we be?

Dakota: (her green eyes shooting daggers) Yeah, it's not like we have anything else to do with our time, thanks to you.

Cathy: (shifting in her chair uncomfortably) Uh...what do you mean?

Dakota: Renovate a farmhouse, rebuild a farm, fix a bridge, work on our relationship, get away from the antagonist, all while dealing with an unexpected gift of farm animals and a dog? I mean, really, couldn't you just send us to outer space in a defunct space shuttle or something?

Chance: (reaches over and pats Dakota's arm) Easy, honey, your Irish temper is showing.

Dakota: (doesn't answer, but continues to shoot daggers at Cathy)

Cathy: (swallows hard and glances down at her notes) Um, sorry. First question: Why did you two introduce yourselves to me with such major problems to overcome?

Chance: Ha! That's not the way I see it. You're the one who created us, not the other way around. Why'd you make us with such problems to overcome?

Cathy: Because I wanted to explore the topic of forgiveness. It's such a huge part of our faith, but all believers tend to struggle with it, especially when the offender seems unconcerned and determined to destroy us, you know?

Dakota: (nods, now her eyes hold understanding) What makes it even harder is when our own actions hurt others. We can't go back and undo what's been done. It's especially difficult when we have trouble forgiving ourselves. And then when the other party accepts no responsibility... (her words trail off, and she glances at Chance)

Chance: (frowning) Haven't we discussed this enough already? Yeah, so maybe I have a hard time seeing the speck in my eye--

Dakota: Speck?

Chance: Okay, so maybe it's a little bigger than that.

Cathy: Little?

Chance: You, too?

(Cathy and Dakota share a knowing look.)
Chance: (with an exasperated sigh) Okay, beam. You happy now?

(Both Cathy and Dakota smile and nod.)

Cathy: (staring at the clock) Wow, time really does fly fast when you're having fun. Better move on to question two. Dakota, why do you have the tendency to run away?

Dakota: (crosses arms, a glare on her face) Well, as I recall, you gave me a pretty tough childhood. (inserts sarcasm) Let me express my undying gratitude.

Cathy: (smiling) You're very welcome. Anything to help the story.

Chance: Yeah, speaking of that, why do you put the story above your own characters? Don't we deserve some gratitude for bowing to your commands?

Cathy: Um, first of all, you are the story; the story is you. That's just the way it works. And as for bowing to my commands? Well, let's just say that both of you are two of the most unruly characters I've ever written. You took over on more than one occasion and told the story for me.

Dakota: I would think you'd be grateful.

Cathy: If I wrote by the seat of my pants, maybe. But I like knowing what you guys are gonna do before I ever start writing the story.

(Chance and Dakota look at each other.)

Dakota: Great. Our author has OCD.

Chance: Big time. But at least it explains why she put us through so much.

Cathy: Enough about me. Chance, would you explain to my reader friends how you got those scars on your face?

(Chance blushes and squirms in his seat.)

Dakota: (still looking at Chance, with a compassionate expression) Uh, I'll take responsibility for that. Sorry, Chance.

Chance: (smiling tenderly at Dakota) It's over and done with. Besides, I gave you a few scars as well.

Dakota: (smiling back) Yeah, not all scars are visible. But I think we've done pretty well in moving past our scars. (She takes his hand.)

Chance: (brings her hand to his lips and plants a soft kiss there) Agreed. (He stands and pulls Dakota up with him.) Interview over.

Cathy: (her face incredulous) What? But I'm not through.

Chance: Oh yes, you are. (He and Dakota turn and move away.)

Dakota: (glancing back over her shoulder) Seriously, Cathy, how can you expect to write a romance and not give your hero and heroine some alone time? I mean, really.

Cathy: (watches them walk away, then produces a sheepish grin) Sorry. Did I mention that these two characters don't always do what I say? (sighs and waves good-bye) Thanks for coming to the interview.

* * *

A BRIDGE UNBROKEN
Letting go to build a bridge…
A frightened runaway wants her painful past to disappear. A plan to start afresh is derailed when she co-inherits her late grandfather’s farm with the man responsible for the scars on her heart. But he isn’t the only ghost from the past. Someone else is out to get her and will stop at nothing to get what he wants. Will Chance and Dakota lay aside their grudges to restore the old farmhouse and bridge, or will evil forces sabotage their attempt at forgiveness?
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The Other Miller’s Creek Novels
“Miller’s Creek, Texas…where folks are friendly, the iced tea is sweet, and Mama Beth’s front porch beckons…”
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A Texas gal by birth, Cathy enjoys spinning tales set in the fictional town of Miller's Creek, Texas, where the folks are friendly, the iced tea is sweet, and Mama Beth's front porch beckons. When she's not writing the Miller's Creek Novels, you'll find her rummaging through thrift stores or up to her elbows in yet another home improvement project in the mountain cabin she shares with her minister husband of over thirty years. You can find out more about Cathy and her books at www.CatBryant.com or at her Facebook author page at https://www.facebook.com/Cathy.Bryant.Author
Here are a few other places to meet up with Cathy in cyberspace:
Reader friends on Facebook may want to visit the following groups, the first for book bargains and the second to discuss all things Miller’s Creek.
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About the $100 Visa Card Giveaway/Launch Party
Cathy is celebrating the new addition to the Miller’s Creek family by making several prizes available to reader friends, including a $100 Visa Card Giveaway. Winners will be announced at the interactive Facebook Launch Party on May 22, 2014.
Other prizes include: t-shirts, coffee mugs, tote bags, bookmarks, eBooks, print books and Amazon Gift cards.
Enter the grand prize drawing for the $100 Visa Card now by clicking one of the links below. But hurry, because the contest ends May 22, 2014. (NOTE: Some contest tasks can be completed daily for extra chances to win.) The grand prize winner will be announced at the A Bridge Unbroken Facebook launch party on May 22.
Don’t miss the fun! See you at the party!