Friday, August 28, 2015

Not By Sight Review-Five Stars


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About the Book

Gripping Sophomore Novel from a Rising Historical Romance Talent

With Britain caught up in WWI, Jack Benningham, heir to the Earl of Stonebrooke, has declared himself a conscientious objector. Instead, he secretly works for the Crown by tracking down German spies on British soil, his wild reputation and society status serving as a foolproof cover.

Blinded by patriotism and concern for her brother on the front lines, wealthy suffragette Grace Mabry will do whatever it takes to assist her country's cause. When she sneaks into a posh London masquerade ball to hand out white feathers of cowardice, she never imagines the chain of events she'll set off when she hands a feather to Jack.

And neither of them could anticipate the extent of the danger and betrayal that follows them--or the faith they'll need to maintain hope. (Goodreads)



My Thoughts

This story was so much better than expected! Kate is a new author to me and I absolutely loved her writing. The history is fascinating set in WWI in the midst of so many things going on with the war the reader I thrust into the life of Grace. Grace wants to be brave and do her part for the war while her brother is fighting. The first part of the book I had no idea where the storyline was going, but a few chapters in and I was totally hooked. There is a slight mystery going on that the characters don't realize but the reader does. Which is so irritating because you simply can't put the book down when that happens! I loved the setting and the characters Grace and Jack but also the many secondary people were well written. There is a bit of a romance but it's not over the top and I think this is just a great book all around.
I look forward to reading more by this author.

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



















 

Thursday, August 27, 2015

The Plain Choice Review



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About the Book

Raised in a broken family and emotionally overlooked, Sherry Gore grew up without a solid foundation, a prisoner of her own poor choices, and at times without hope. A series of terrible mistakes left her feeling wrecked and alone and a sudden tragedy threw Sherry into an emotional tailspin too powerful to escape.

Sherry hangs by a thread, unable to see how she can go on living, until it happens: on a morning of no particular significance, she walks into a church and BAM the truth of Jesus forgiving love shatters her world and cleaves her life in two: She goes to bed stunned; she wakes up a Christian.

Unwilling to return to the darkness of her former life, Sherry attacks her faith head on. Soon the life Sherry Gore remakes for herself and her children as she seeks to follow the teachings of the Bible features head coverings, simple dress, and a focus on Jesus Christ. Only then does she realize, in a fit of excitement, that there are others like her. They are called Amish and Mennonite, and she realizes she has found her people.

The plain choice that Sherry makes is not easy and life still brings unexpected pain and heartache - but it changes everything for her, as she becomes one of the few people on earth to have successfully joined the Amish from the outside.

She has found her place. And her story proves that one can return from the darkest depths to the purest light with the power of God." (Goodreads)



My Thoughts

I have mixed feelings after having read this book. Of course I can't rate a person's life since this is essentially a biography. I can rate, in my opinion, how it was written and the point behind the book. The book at times doesn't flow very well. The authors' thoughts seem to just be random and as the ending of the book came closer I became confused. This book is promoted to be about a woman becoming Amish or Plain and that really doesn't happen. There is no mention of her becoming a part of the church or being Amish/Plain at all just that she lives somewhat in their world. Why advertise a book like this if that's not even the truth? Or if that is the truth it's not written in this book.
Lots of people can live this way, take things out of their lives that are destructive, wear plain clothing, and even live in such a community-but that is not becoming Amish.
 I totally think Sherry's life was turned around and that is worth celebrating. I just don't think this is a good book about "someone becoming Plain".  The majority of the book is about her life before she finds Christ, she struggles and there are tragedies and life is hard. I think the hardest thing for me was that Sherry just pieces together different parts of religion, some Amish, some not, and still lives the way she wants. After becoming a Christian and deciding she wants to change her life, which she does indeed change, she decides to divorce her husband. It's a mutual decision but then they continue to be good friends and share life moments. This part of the book is very vague and rather confusing for me. Sherry's children are obviously important and I enjoyed reading her daughters' story.
I think there could have been more added to this book, as it really rather abruptly ends.
For a book about someone who discovers Christ, this is a great testimony.
 For a book about Amish/Plain living, this is not the book to read.

Three stars.

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









Monday, August 24, 2015

It's Good to Be Queen Review-Worth the Read!


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About the Book

Sheba Journeyed Across the Desert with a Caravan of Riches, Only to Find the Greatest Treasure of Them All. So Can You.

When it comes to famous queens of the Bible, we know the good one, Queen Esther, and the bad one, Queen Jezebel. Now meet the wise one, the queen of Sheba, who traveled to Jerusalem to test the mind and heart of a king.

Her quest for wisdom will surprise you, challenge you, inspire you, change you. This wealthy royal from antiquity will show you how to live boldly, seek after truth, ask the right questions, encourage others, receive graciously, and honor the Lord above all.

Shedding new light on this ancient biblical role model, Liz Curtis Higgs unveils timeless wisdom for all who aspire to please the king of Kings. (Goodreads)



My Thoughts

I love Liz Curtis Higgs' writing. She is so talented at creating a story line or in this case explaining a story line. I have read this passage in the Bible multiple times but I always read it and just take it for granted. As if  it was totally normal for a woman to travel so far with tons of people and camels and gold and jewels and spices. As if it's no big deal as to why this whole story is even in the Bible -it's obviously in there for a reason. I think Liz Curtis Higgs does a great job at not only reading the passage and explaining the history, but also how the Queen of Sheba is an example to women. I like that she sticks to what the Bible does say and not what others have assumed. I like that the entire passage in I Kings is broken down almost word by word so that it actually makes sense. 
I loved this book. 

Five stars. 

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








Sunday, August 23, 2015

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Thankful Children's Review





 About the Book

Thankful, by bestselling and award-winning children s author Eileen Spinelli, combines charming rhymes and whimsical illustrations to convey the importance of being thankful for everyday blessings. Like the gardener thankful for every green sprout, and the fireman, for putting the fire out, readers are encouraged to be thankful for the many blessings they find in their lives. Spinelli exhibits her endearing storytelling with this engaging poem, reminding children how blessed and special they are. Meant to be read aloud, this heartwarming picture book will be a treasured keepsake for parents and children alike. (Goodreads)



My Thoughts

 This is a wonderful kid's book! The illustrations are fantastic and Eileen makes this book perfect for kids to read and enjoy. The thing that stuck out to me is how the book is family oriented and how different occupations (not the typical) are described. Such as a bird watcher and a beekeeper. I think this is perfect for young little imaginations. The book also isn't just set in fall but reminds kids to be thankful all the time for every little thing. 
Great book for 4-8 year olds!

Five Stars. 

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













 











Secrets She Kept Review

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About the Book

The secret a mother was forbidden to share . . . the consequences a daughter could not redeem—but will risk everything in her attempt.

All her life, Hannah Sterling longed for a close relationship with her estranged mother. Following Lieselotte’s death, Hannah unlocks secrets of her mother’s mysterious past, including the discovery of a grandfather living in Germany.

Thirty years earlier, Lieselotte’s father, ascending the ranks of the Nazi party, demands a marriage for his daughter to help advance his career. But Lieselotte is in love—and her beloved Lukas secretly works against the Reich. How far will her father go to achieve his goal?

Both Hannah’s and Lieselotte’s stories unfold as Hannah travels to Germany to meet her grandfather, who hides wartime secrets of his own. Longing for connection, yet shaken by all she uncovers, Hannah must decide if she can atone for her family’s tragic past, and how their legacy will shape her future. (Goodreads)


My Review

There is always that author who I anxiously wait for to see what is written next. Cathy has written some of my all time favorite novels and this one now goes in that category. I loved this book, I couldn't put it down it was so good. It's heart wrenching and real and captivated me imagination until the end. I loved the characters present and historical and the setting and storyline is wonderfully written. I have read many books set during WWII but this story has a new angle on those who tricked Jewish people into getting them captured. The lies and the holocaust and the family dynamics are all combined in this novel and present and past collide in ways that I wasn't expecting.
One of the best books I have read this year.
"I received a copy of this book from Tyndale Publishing for free in exchange for an honest review."








Tuesday, August 18, 2015

A Walk in the Woods Review


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 About the Book

Back in America after twenty years in Britain, Bill Bryson decided to reacquaint himself with his native country by walking the 2,100-mile Appalachian Trail, which stretches from Georgia to Maine. The AT offers an astonishing landscape of silent forests and sparkling lakes--and to a writer with the comic genius of Bill Bryson, it also provides endless opportunities to witness the majestic silliness of his fellow human beings.

For a start there's the gloriously out-of-shape Stephen Katz, a buddy from Iowa along for the walk. Despite Katz's overwhelming desire to find cozy restaurants, he and Bryson eventually settle into their stride, and while on the trail they meet a bizarre assortment of hilarious characters. But A Walk in the Woods is more than just a laugh-out-loud hike. Bryson's acute eye is a wise witness to this beautiful but fragile trail, and as he tells its fascinating history, he makes a moving plea for the conservation of America's last great wilderness. An adventure, a comedy, and a celebration, A Walk in the Woods has become a modern classic of travel literature. (Goodreads)




My Thoughts

This book actually surprised me with its humor and down to earth writing. There are a lot of facts about the AT that I never knew and other random history tidbits/facts throughout the book. While there is a lot of cussing I still enjoyed the overall story line of this journey for Katz and Bryson. I like looking into other people's lives and out of all of the the "walk the trail" type books this one is the most detailed in what it is actually like. For a fresh look into someone's story while walking the trail this is a pretty good read. 

Four stars. 

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










TOP TEN TUESDAY!




August 18: Top Ten Of Your Auto-buy Authors (no matter the genre or what it's about...you'll buy it from these authors!). Thanks to Broke and Bookish!

This was so hard to come up with! I love all of these authors and so many more! If you haven't read these authors you should!


  1. Katie Ganshert

  2. Joanne Bishof

  3. Janette Oke

  4. Jody Hedlund

  5. Cathy Gohlke

  6. Deeanne Gist

  7. Ted Dekker

  8. Susan May Warren

  9. Dani Pettrey

  10. Laura Frantz

A Heart's Home Review



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 About the Book

This Christmas, a tragic loss at Fort Laramie ushers in hope and healing.When a young mother dies after giving birth at Fort Laramie, Emmie Croftner is shaken by the death of her dear friend--and reminded of the dangers of childbirth. She won't be able to hide her own pregnancy much longer. She's dreading the day that Isaac Liddle, the handsome soldier she adores, discovers her secret.Then the young infant's father offers a solution: Emmie should marry him so the child can have a family.With the Sioux Wars threatening soldier and civilian alike, a ready-made family could be the answer to Emmie's prayers for safety. But at what cost to her heart--and Isaac's? (Goodreads)



My Thoughts

This is the final book in this six book series. I think it ended well, though a bit predictable. I love the covers on all of these books, I just wish there had been a bit more depth. I think if you sat down and read them back to back, like reading one novel, you would get more out of it. There are two storylines covered and I finally felt like a got into the characters more with these last couple books. Overall, I think I would appreciate one novel more than these multiple short books. 
My favorite characters were Rand and Sarah though Emmie grew on me. The setting is historic and key to these being good. 
I recommend reading these in order and all about the same time( you will want to read them back to back anyway). 

For Colleen Coble fans and those you like historical novels, I give the entire collection 4 stars. 

This book five stars.


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




 










Saturday, August 15, 2015

The Sea Keeper's Daughters Review


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 About the Book

Wingate's third Carolina book follows the highly reviewed, The Prayer Box and The Story Keeper as well as related three novellas.

From modern-day Roanoke Island to the sweeping backdrop of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains and Roosevelt’s WPA folklore writers, past and present intertwine to create an unexpected destiny. . .

Restaurant owner Whitney Monroe is desperate to save her business from a hostile takeover. The inheritance of a decaying Gilded Age hotel on North Carolina’s Outer Banks may provide just the ray of hope she needs. But things at The Excelsior are more complicated than they seem. Whitney’s estranged stepfather is entrenched on the third floor, and the downstairs tenants are determined to save the historic building. Searching through years of stored family heirlooms may be Whitney’s only hope of quick cash, but will the discovery of an old necklace and a depression-era love story change everything. (Goodreads)





My Thoughts

Lisa Wingate is a gifted writer and this book really shows her creativity with characters and settings. I loved this book and it was really hard to put down. The Lost Colony has always fascinated me and the theory within the book was really fun to read. I liked the historical story more so than Whitney's present life happenings but both were good. I love how this book gives imagination to a room full of old things, you never know what you might find. I love the lost letters and the history of the WPA so very interesting! I liked all of the characters and how the story ends, it's not what I had pictured. 
Great book and a talented author. I highly recommend this book and the other two books that somewhat tie into this one, The Prayer Box and the Story Keeper.

Five Stars.

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








Friday, August 14, 2015

Irish Meadows Review

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 About the Book

Irish immigrant James O’Leary has spent his life building Irish Meadows into a thriving horse farm and is not about to let hard economic times threaten its success. He intends for his daughters to marry prosperous men–ones who will secure the family’s rightful place in society, and at the same time, guarantee the future of Irish Meadows. Both girls, however, have different visions for their futures.

Brianna and Colleen O’Leary know their father expects them to marry well. Yet despite his wishes, Brianna, the quieter sister, dreams of attending college. Vivacious Colleen, meanwhile, is happy to marry–as long as her father’s choice meets her exacting standards. When stable hand Gilbert Whelan returns from college and distant family member Rylan Montgomery stops in on his way to the seminary in Boston, the two men quickly complicate everyone’s plans. It will take every ounce of courage for both sisters to follow their hearts. And even if they do, will they inevitably find their dreams too distant to reach?(Goodreads)


 My Review

This is a new author to me, as it is her first book. I'm always up for reading something new and was so excited about this story! This book was a bit stop and go for me. Things would pick up and peak my interest and then I would have to slowly continue until the storyline picked up again. It was a tough book for me to get into and I'm sure part of it was my mood. I set it aside for a few days and picked it back up but it was just so predictable. I liked Gilbert the most and the setting is unique. I wish I could say better things but I know so many others will enjoy this book more than me. 

Three stars.



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




Will Brianna and Colleen have the courage to stand up to their father's schemes to save their horse farm and instead pursue true love? Don't miss Irish Meadows, the newest book by Susan Anne Mason! As the farm slips ever closer to ruin, their father grows more desperate. It will take every ounce of courage for both sisters to avoid being pawns in their father’s machinations and instead follow their hearts. And even if they do, will they inevitably find their dreams too distant to reach?

Join Susan in celebrating the release of Irish Meadows by entering to win her Kindle Fire giveaway and RSVPing to her September 1st author chat party!

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One grand prize winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire HD 6
  • One copy of Irish Meadows
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on 9/1. The winner will be announced at the Irish Meadows Facebook party. RSVP for a chance to connect with Susan and other readers, as well as for a chance to win some great prizes!

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RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK, TWITTER, or PINTEREST and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 1st!

Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Lazarus Awakening Book Review




You believe that God loves the world…
but sometimes you wonder if He truly loves you.

For many of us, moving the truth of God’s love from our heads to our hearts is a lifelong process. As we consider our inadequacies or grieve our shattered dreams, we find it difficult to believe that God cares for us personally.

In this life-giving book, Joanna Weaver shows you how to embrace the truth that Jesus loves you apart from anything you accomplish, apart from anything you bring. Just as He called Lazarus forth to new life, Jesus wants to free you to live fully in the light of His love, unbound from the grave clothes of fear, regret, and self-condemnation.

Love is calling your name.

Combining unforgettable real-life illustrations with unexpected biblical insights, Joanna Weaver invites you to experience a spiritual resurrection that will forever change your understanding of what it means to be the one Jesus loves.
 
Includes 10-week Bible study (adaptable for 8 weeks) for both individual reflection and group discussion.
  (Goodreads)




My Thoughts

I actually read this book a few years ago, and ended up giving my copy away because I liked it so much. This book really draws the reader into the world of Jesus and how He loved people in the Bible. Weaver helps you realize how much Jesus loves you and throws in her own life stories. This book also includes a study in the back of the book. The video study also just came out that goes along with this book and another study book. You will look at Lazarus' life in a new way and how people really haven't changed that much since then. 
Highly recommend.

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












Sacred Marriage Review





About the Book
 
With over 500,000 units sold, Sacred Marriage has become a classic read for married couples over the past 15 years. Now updated, streamlined, and revised by author and speaker Gary Thomas to better meet the needs of today’s pre-married and married couples.
Happy is good. Holy is better.
Marriage is more than a sacred covenant with another person. It is a spiritual discipline designed to help men and women know God better, trust him more fully, and love him more deeply. So what if God’s primary intent for marriage isn’t to make people happy . . . but to make them holy?
Sacred Marriage reveals how marriage trains husbands and wives to love God and others well, how it exposes sin and makes us more aware of God's presence, how good marriages foster good prayer, how married sex feeds the spiritual life, and more. More than just a manual to a happier relationship, Sacred Marriage challenges readers to look at marriage in a whole new way and uncover the mystery of God’s overarching purpose.
The revised edition of Sacred Marriage takes into account the ways men's and women's roles have expanded since the book was first written. It has been streamlined to be a faster read without losing the depth that so many readers have valued. 


My Thoughts

Though this book is not newly published, I hadn't read it until this version. I haven't read anything by Gary Thomas before and I'll be honest this book didn't have much in it that I haven't read before. Of course there are new stories about marriages and situations but as popular as it might be, I didn't get a lot out of this book. My favorite chapter is when Gary writes about prayer in marriage and how growing a relationship with Christ in your marriage is so important. 

Four stars. 

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












Tuesday, August 11, 2015

This Is Not A Test TobyMac CD Giveaway Reminder



thisisnotatest
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My Thoughts

I am so excited about this album!!! I have been able to enjoy this music for a few days now and I love it. I think this is one of his best albums. I have all of TobyMac older songs but at times I thought he sounded a bit the same all the way through. This CD is full of diverse songs and music with great lyrics. This is one I would recommend to anyone!

Giveaway Time!!!

Flyby has been so nice to offer one of my reader a physical CD of This is Not a Test!

Not very many people have entered this giveaway folks and this is an awesome album!

Sunday, August 9, 2015

Through Waters Deep Review


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 About the Book


It is 1941 and America teeters on the brink of war. Outgoing naval officer Ensign Jim Avery escorts British convoys across the North Atlantic in a brand-new destroyer, the USS Atwood. Back on shore, Boston Navy Yard secretary Mary Stirling does her work quietly and efficiently, happy to be out of the limelight. Yet, despite her reserved nature, she never could back down from a challenge. When evidence of sabotage on the Atwood is found, Jim and Mary must work together to uncover the culprit. A bewildering maze of suspects emerges, and Mary is dismayed to find that even someone close to her is under suspicion. With the increasing pressure, Jim and Mary find that many new challenges--and dangers--await them. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

It was really hard for me to get into this book and I so wish that wasn't the case. I love the history and story lines and real life stories that evolve from WWII. I thought this book unique in that it involves the Navy and the "mystery" that ensues. Sarah Sundin is a talented writer but her characters in this book just didn't draw me in. I like the setting and the overall story line idea.

Four stars. 

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


Friday, August 7, 2015

TobyMac: This is Not A Test CD Review and Giveaway!

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My Thoughts

I am so excited about this album!!! I have been able to enjoy this music for a few days now and I love it. I think this is one of his best albums. I have all of TobyMac older songs but at times I thought he sounded a bit the same all the way through. This CD is full of diverse songs and music with great lyrics. This is one I would recommend to anyone!

Giveaway Time!!!

Flyby has been so nice to offer one of my reader a physical CD of This is Not a Test!

Enter with the rafflecopter below.




a Rafflecopter giveaway


"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.
Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”




About TOBYMAC:
Toby McKeehan(known professionally as TobyMac) is a husband, father, performer, songwriter, producer, and businessman.  Growing up in the northern Virginia suburbs adjacent to Washington D.C. helped instill his love for rap music.  While attending Liberty University during the mid 80s, Toby met Michael Tait and Kevin Max Smith and these three friends formed the Grammy winning, platinum selling group dc Talk.  Toby began his solo career in 1999 with his first solo album, Momentum, releasing in 2001.  Momentum has been followed by four additional studio albums, Welcome to Diverse City (2004), Portable Sounds (2007), Tonight (2010), and Eye On It (2012), along with his first live album, Alive and Transported (2008).  This Is Not A Test is his 6th studio album to be released.  Starting with dc Talk, and then going solo when the group disbanded, Toby still clings to such rootsy notions as hard work, persistence, patience, and - perhaps most relevant of all - the power of music, which he insists is still what keeps him going.  "It's the truth," he says.  "I still believe that a song can penetrate a heart.  I believe God can use a song to open someone's mind and heart."   

This Is Not A Test  (Deluxe Edition) Songs: 
1. Like a Match
2. Backseat Driver (featuring Hollyn & TRU)
3. This Is Not a Test (featuring Capital Kings)
4. Lights Shine Bright (featuring Hollyn)
5. Til the Day I Die (featuring NF)
6. Feel It (featuring Mr. Talkbox)
7. Move (Keep Walkin')
8. Love Broke Thru
9. Beyond Me
10. Love Feels Like (featuring dc Talk)
11. Undeniable
12. Lift You Up (featuring Ryan Stevenson)
13. Fall
14. Beyond Me (Phenomenon Remix)
15. Like a Match (Garcia's Remix) 


ALBUM RELEASE DATE:  AUGUST 7th! 



::::::::::::::::::::::



S O C I A L • C O R N E R











YOUTUBE CHANNEL - Includes a 3 part video series for the song Feel It (see link on the Feel It giveaway below) 


FEEL IT GIVEAWAY (Feel It will be the 2nd single released from the new album.)





















Wednesday, August 5, 2015

Giveaway Reminder-Cleaning Out My Shelves

Hey all! Just a reminder that the huge book giveaway is still going on for a few more days!
I also will be adding a side giveaway for those who have commented/liked my Facebook page. I'm keeping the prize a secret for now but it does involve books.
Thanks for reading!




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Tuesday, August 4, 2015

Autumn Brides: A Year of Weddings Novella Collection Review




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About the Book

Happily ever after begins today. The honor of your presence is requested at three autumn weddings.…



A September Bride by Kathryn Springer



When Annie moves to Red Leaf, she’s ready to call the little town home. Deputy Jesse Kent can’t believe his mother has handed the keys to her bookshop over to a woman she met on the internet. Jesse has seen his mother taken advantage of before, and he decides to keep a close eye on this Annie Price. But when a close eye turns into a historical wedding reenactment with Jesse and Annie as the couple, make-believe nuptials quickly give way to real-life emotions.



An October Bride by Katie Ganshert



No one but Jake and Emma know the true reason they’re getting married—so Emma’s dying father can walk her down the aisle. While Jake and Emma plan an autumn wedding together, it becomes clear that their agreement has a few complications—the biggest being their true feelings for each other.



A November Bride by Beth K. Vogt



Having celebrated the big 3-0 by ending a relationship, Sadie is tired of romantic relationships-by-text. The only man she knows willing to put down his iPhone and have face-to-face conversations with her is Erik. It’s time to put a 21st-century twist on the Sadie Hawkins’ tradition of a woman going after her man. But when he realizes he’s fallen for her, can Erik convince Sadie his just-for-fun dates were the prelude to “‘til death do us part”? (Goodreads)


My Thoughts

I've been staring at this cover and I really think it's one of my favorites. I love fall and the flowers on the cover are just beautiful! So typically novellas are not my thing but I wanted to read this one because I love these particular authors. The first story didn't draw me in so much and it was just an okay read for me. The characters didn't stand out and the romance just seemed iffy.
The second October bride story I loved. While being just a short story Ganshert did such an awesome job in adding depth and fun and real life into a few short pages. The romance is funny but not forced or too gushy. I also love the setting! Who doesn't love harvest festivals?!
The third book was also quite good and I liked the characters and the setting (Colorado) which is one of my favorite places. Vogt has such a humor to her writing and she did a great job in creating a storyline in a small amount of space. And the mention of Tattered Cover book store made me smile.

Overall this is one of the best novella collections I have read!! Highly recommend!

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














Hope Harbor Review



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About the Book


Tracy Campbell never wanted to leave Hope Harbor, Oregon, or the idyllic three-generation cranberry farm where she grew up. But life–and love–altered her plans.
When tragedy strikes and changes her plans yet again, she finds herself back in her hometown with a floundering farm to run and a heartbreaking secret. Romance is not on her agenda. Nor is it on Michael Hunter’s. The visitor from Chicago has daunting secrets of his own. But when Tracy recruits him to help save a struggling charitable organization, the winds of change begin to sweep through Hope Harbor, bringing healing, hope, and love to countless lives–including their own.   (Goodreads)


My Thoughts

Isn't the cover of this book beautiful? It really draws you in and makes you want to read the words inside.
That being said this book stopped drawing me in after a few chapters. I wish it wasn't so but this book was so very hard to get through. I love Irene's suspense novels but this book was so slow. The characters didn't captivate me, the storyline drug on, the romance was not to my liking, and I can only give it three stars.
I did like the setting and the cranberry farm was really an interesting addition to the book.

Three stars.

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















Saturday, August 1, 2015

Lazarus Awakening Study Review

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  • More Info
  • Author Bio 
     

    Journey to the Tomb of Lazarus…and Hear Jesus Call Your Name Mary worshiped. Martha served. But what did Lazarus do to experience Jesus’s lavish love?

    Filmed in the Holy Land, this DVD companion to Joanna Weaver’s book Lazarus Awakening explores the incredible truth that Jesus loves us apart from our works or our worthiness. He wants to call us out of our tombs and into friendship with Him.

    Designed for use with the book and companion study guide, this three-disc DVD Bible study is formatted for both individual and group use, with content suitable for both men and women.
    ·         In-depth Bible study: Features eight 15- to 17-minute video sessions.
    ·         Bonus “Israel Moment” videos explore the life of Christ and the Holy Land.
    ·         Designed for use with the study guide and book.
    ·         Leader’s guide, promotional material, and retreat format included. (Goodreads)


 My Thoughts

This is a great study, though given the time frame to review it, I haven't completed the entire study. I love Joanna Weaver's writing and this study is a lot more in depth than I anticipated. There is the video, notes on that, then personal questions, and homework for the week. The weeks seem to vary but this is a study I am so excited about! I am always anxious to read her books and the study correlates with the book. It's also recommended reading to go along with the study each week. 
 I have led a Bible study a few times and I think the gals would really enjoy this one but they will need to be prepared to do some work! Sometimes homework is hard for people but it really is the core of getting the good out of a study. For groups or individual study.
If you haven't read Joanna Weaver, I highly recommend! 

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