A Wager With the Matchmaker

About the Book

 After her brother's entanglement with an Irish gang threatens their family's safety, Alannah Darragh flees St. Louis and her troubled past, seeking refuge as a maid for the affluent Shanahan family. Alannah's resolve to avoid romance is tested by the undeniable attraction she feels for Kiernan Shanahan. Determined to maintain her position and the safety it provides, she vows to resist the pull of her heart despite the growing bond between them and their undeniable chemistry.

In the wake of a devastating fire, Kiernan Shanahan sees a shrewd opportunity to invest in a clay mine and brickyard to aid the city's rebuilding. To secure his venture, he seeks a wealthy bride with a substantial dowry. However, the matchmaker he consults has different plans. As danger looms and Alannah fights to keep her brother safe, Kiernan's protective instincts draw them closer together, but a future with him seems too far out of reach. It will take a miracle--or a wager with the wily matchmaker--to bring the unlikely couple together.

Be swept away in a tale of love, danger, and destiny in this captivating historical romance from bestselling author Jody Hedlund. (Goodreads)

BUY HERE

My Thoughts

You don't have to read the previous books in this series to enjoy this one but it always adds if you do! I really love the matchmaker, Bellamy, whose presence is in all of the books. He adds so much and makes me smile every time! 

Alannah is a strong willed gal and I liked reading her character grow and develop throughout the story. She loves to read and is determined to read her books when she can and I love that about her. The wagers with the matchmaker are entertaining and made for a fun twist. There is a "forbidden" love situation that I didn't especially enjoy but the author did surprise me in the end with how she handled the family members and conflict. I really struggled to like Kiernan and even at the end he just didn't work for me. His attitude and personality grated on my nerves. So because of this I wasn't totally invested in the love story. But there are lots of "swoony" moments that I am sure Hedlund fans will love. 

There is a good amount of action and a few intense moments that had me eager to flip to the next page. Overall this is a captivating read with excellent secondary characters that I am hoping will pop up in another book! 

Four Stars. 

"I received this book from the publisher for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

Most Anticipated Books Releasing During the Second Half of 2023

 There are so many great books coming out later this year. I am highly anticipating the ones I have listed-and many more of course! 

Leave a comment so I can see your TTT list! 

The Last Chance Cowboy Review

 

About the Book

As a midwife, Catherine Remington is successful in bringing new life into the world, but she's failed one too many times in finding true love. When she's accused of a murder she didn't commit, she's forced to flee and decides to run away to Colorado to honor a patient's dying wish to deliver a newborn infant to his father.

The repentant prodigal Dylan McQuaid is finally back in Fairplay. Elected as sheriff, he's doing his best to prove to the town he's a changed man and worthy of their trust. When a woman shows up with an infant son he didn't know he had, Dylan is left with only complicated choices on what to do next.

Having grown attached to Dylan's son, Catherine doesn't want to part ways with the infant, but what she doesn't bargain for is how easily she'll fall for the charming rogue, or how quickly her past will catch up with her and put their love and lives in danger.

Bestselling author Jody Hedlund brings her Colorado Cowboys series to an adventuresome close with this page-turning Western romance. (Goodreads)

 

BUY HERE

 

 My Thoughts

We have finally gotten Dylan's full story! I have been eager to read more about Dylan so I was excited to read this book. The first few chapters of this book really irritated me. How everything plays out is entirely ridiculous and I was really ticked at Catherine because of her blatant dishonesty. I was even more ticked at Dylan because of his actions! BUT as I continued to read I started to see growth in the characters and was hopeful that they would get their act together. There are many twists and turns and I loved visiting the rest of the McQuaids in this book. I love that my hometown of Como is mentioned in the book and the entire setting of course is wonderful as I know it so well! All that to say that I did end up enjoying this story and Hedlund wrapped up the series nicely. 

 

Four Stars. 

 

" I received this book from Bethany House Publishers for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

 

 

 

 

 

 

To Tame a Cowboy Review

 

 

 About the Book

 Brody McQuaid is a broken man, and he knows it. While his body survived the war, his soul did not. Besides loving his little niece, his only other sense of purpose comes from saving the wild horses that roam South Park. Ranchers in the area have taken to killing the horses, which are competing with their cattle to feed on the open grass.

Savannah Marshall is a veterinarian on her family's Colorado ranch. She longs to keep her father happy following the tragic death of her older brother, including marrying a man of his choosing. But days before her wedding, she gets cold feet and disappears to South Park. As she learns more about the destruction of the horses, she joins Brody in an attempt to save the wild creatures. But when Savannah's family and the resentments of the area cattlemen catch up with them both, Brody and Savannah will have to tame their fears if they've any hope to let love run free. (Goodreads)

 BUY HERE

 

Releases May 3rd! 

 

My Thoughts

 

This sure was a fun book to read. With this being book three, it might be my favorite of the series so far but that is debatable. Jody Hedlund is a must read author for me. When I found out she was writing a series set in my hometown area I was excited. I really loved the characters in this book with Brody, Savannah, and even Ivy, Brody's sister. It has been fun to see Ivy grow up in this series. 

I like the McQuaid family that Hedlund has created with these books and it is so fun to see it grow and change. The setting of course is wonderful being in South Park Colorado. There are some fun scenes that made me laugh and while all predictable this was a book I couldn't put down. While this is a mostly lighthearted romance there are some great truths about forgiveness and moving forward. 

You can read this book as a stand alone novel but I really recommend starting with the first A Cowboy for Keeps.

I highly recommend if you enjoy historical romance! 

 

Five Stars. 

 

"I received this book from Bethany House for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

Never Leave Me Review

 

 

About the Book

 In the last stages of a genetic disease, Ellen Creighton has decided to live out her remaining days at the estate of her longtime friend Harrison Burlington. Harrison cares deeply for Ellen, but as a wheelchair-bound paraplegic, he's never allowed himself to get serious in a relationship. However, he's desperately trying to save her by finding the holy water that is believed to heal any disease.

When he locates two flasks, Ellen refuses to drink one of them because she believes the holy water killed her sister and father. In an effort to convince her to take it, Harrison ingests the contents first, and when Ellen witnesses the effects, she can no longer deny the power of the substance in the bottles. Dangerous criminals are also seeking the holy water, and Ellen soon learns they will go to any lengths to get the powerful drug--including sending her back into the past to find it for them.

Bestselling and award-winning author Jody Hedlund plunges you into the swiftly flowing river of history in a race against the clock in this breathtaking, emotional second Waters of Time story. (Goodreads)

 

 BUY HERE

 

My Thoughts

I loved the first book in this series and if you haven't read it you need to before picking up this one. The two are very much connected so it makes a big difference in understand everything that is happening in this second book. 

I was excited to delve more into Harrison's character and I so enjoyed all of the characters in this story. This novel alternates between present day and the Middle Ages though it focuses more in present day. I think that is partly why this story only gets four stars. I LOVE the time travel and the historical side of things so much more than present day. Both sides were well written I just wish we could have spent more time in the past. All that to say this is a fantastic series. I couldn't put it down and I am hoping Jody Hedlund writes more time travel stories. 

If you enjoy time travel and a splash of clean romance this is the book for you!

Four Stars. 

"I received this book from Revell for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

Come Back To Me

 About the Book

 

 The ultimate cure that could heal any disease? Crazy.

That's exactly what research scientist Marian Creighton has always believed about her father's quest, even if it does stem from a desire to save her sister Ellen from the genetic disease that stole their mother from them. But when her father falls into a coma after drinking a vial of holy water believed to contain traces of residue from the Tree of Life, Marian must question all of her assumptions. He's left behind tantalizing clues that suggest he's crossed back in time. Insane. Until Marian tests his theories and finds herself in the Middle Ages during a dangerous peasant uprising.

William Durham, a valiant knight comes to Marian's rescue and offers her protection . . . as his wife. The longer Marian stays in the past, the more she cares about William. Can she ever find her father and make it back to the present to heal her sister? And when the time comes to leave, will she want to?

Bestselling author Jody Hedlund is your guide down the twisting waters of time to a volatile era of superstition, revolts, and chivalry in this suspenseful story. (Goodreads)

 

 BUY IT HERE!

 

My Thoughts

Jody Hedlund once again writes a fantastic novel. I like time travel story ideas and I was so excited to hear she wrote such a book.

I will say that this story had a lot more romance in it than I was expecting. I do think instead of this just being fiction it needs to also be labeled romance so people are aware when they pick it up.

Hedlund always keeps her books clean but the love story is pretty much the entire plot of this book. All that being said I completely loved this book for the history, the time travel, the love story, and the well-developed characters. There are some plot holes that hopefully will be brought up again in the next book (can’t wait!) but I thought the time travel idea was so well done! It is a fun unique twist and yes, it did remind me slightly of Outlander but this is it's own story for sure. The leading man in this book, Will, is such a great character and I loved getting to read the different parts of his personality. 

Once you start this book you can’t put it down. I really enjoyed it and I can’t wait for book two!

 

Five Stars.

 

“I received this book from Revell for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.”

A Cowboy For Keeps Review

  

 

 

 

 About the Book

Greta Nilsson's trip west to save her ailing little sister, Astrid, could not have gone more wrong. First, bandits hold up her stagecoach, stealing all her money. Then, upon arriving in Fairplay, Colorado, she learns the man she was betrothed to as a mail-order bride has died. Homeless, penniless, and jobless, Greta and her sister are worse off than when they started.

Wyatt McQuaid is struggling to get his new ranch up and running and is in town to purchase cattle when the mayor proposes the most unlikely of bargains. He'll invest in a herd of cattle for Wyatt's ranch if Wyatt agrees to help the town become more respectable by marrying and starting a family. And the mayor, who has promised to try to help Greta, has just the candidate in mind for Wyatt to marry. (Goodreads)

 

BUY HERE

 

 

My Thoughts

I was over the moon excited for this book as it is set in my home town area. Going into this book I knew it would be really difficult to not be nit picky on the details because the setting is very near and dear to me. That being said I just struggled with loving the characters in this book. Greta and Wyatt just aren't my favorite and the story line seemed very generic western romance. I love Jody Hedlund's writing but this book felt like it was rushed when written and I just didn't get the Hedlund feel from reading it. That being said I know many people have loved it. The setting of course is wonderful and it is still a charming story.

 

Three Stars.
 

"I received this book from Bethany House Publishers for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."  

 

 

 

 

 

 

A Bride of Convenience Review

About the Book

Upon discovering an abandoned baby, Pastor Abe Merivale joins efforts with Zoe Hart, one of the newly arrived bride-ship women, to care for the infant. With mounting pressure to find the baby a home, Abe offers his hand as Zoe's groom. But after a hasty wedding, they soon realize their marriage of convenience is not so convenient after all. (Goodreads)

Pick Up Your Own Copy

My Thoughts

Jody Hedlund creates some of the best historical romance stories. This is my favorite of this series and I couldn't put it down. The characters are fresh and fun and while Abe got on my nerves at times I actually liked that he wasn't a typical hero. The setting is fantastic and there are a few adventures that make this story anything but boring. Zoe's attitude is one to be admired especially in her situation and I enjoyed reading her loyalty. There is an adoption theme that I loved as well, it added a lot to the book.  

If you haven't read any of Jody's books you really must! If you like historical romance they are not to be missed. 

"I received this book from Bethany House for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

The Runaway Bride Review

 

About the Book

Wealthy Arabella Lawrence flees to British Columbia on a bride ship still wearing the scars of past mistakes. One of the few single women in the boomtown, she immediately has suitors, but she is determined not to find herself trapped again by a poor choice.

Vying for her hand are two very different men. Lieutenant Richard Drummond is a gentleman in the Navy and is held in high esteem. Peter Kelly is the town's baker and has worked hard to build a thriving business. He and Drummond not only compete for Arabella's affections, but clash over their views of how the natives should be treated in the midst of a smallpox outbreak.

As Arabella begins to overcome her fears, she discovers someone in dire need—a starving girl abandoned by her tribe. Intent on helping the girl, Arabella leans on Peter's advice and guidance. Will she have the wisdom to make the right decision or will seeking what's right cost both her and Peter everything? Goodreads

 BUY HERE

My Thoughts

I really enjoy Jody's books and this cover is simply stunning! The first part of this story moved pretty slowly for me. I had a difficult time getting into the plot but I so loved Peter! He has the best personality and really made this book worthwhile in my opinion. I enjoy the history of the bride ships and also British Columbia. I feel like Jody does a great job making history come alive in all of her books. While this wasn't my favorite of hers, this series has been unique and if you haven't read one of her books you must! 

Four Stars. 

"I received this book from Bethany House for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

Together Forever Celebrate Lit Tour and Review

About the Book

Title: Together Forever, Orphan Train Book 2

Author: Jody Hedlund

Genre: Inspirational historical romance

Release Date: May, 2018

Determined to find her lost younger sister, Marianne Neumann takes a job as a placing agent with the Children’s Aid Society in 1858 New York. She not only hopes to offer children a better life, but prays she’ll be able to discover whether Sophie ended up leaving the city on an orphan train so they can finally be reunited.

Andrew Brady, her fellow agent on her first placing-out trip, is a former schoolteacher who has an easy way with the children, firm but tender and friendly. Underneath his charm and handsome looks, though, seems to linger a grief that won’t go away–and a secret from his past that he keeps hidden.

As the two team up, placing orphans in the small railroad towns of Illinois, they find themselves growing ever closer . . . until a shocking tragedy threatens to upend all their work and change one of their lives forever.

Click here to purchase your copy!

About the Author

Jody Hedlund is the author of over a dozen novels, including Love Unexpected, Captured by Love, Unending Devotion, The Preacher’s Bride, and A Noble Groom, winner of the 2014 Carol Award for historical romance. She received a bachelor’s degree from Taylor University and a master’s from the University of Wisconsin, both in social work. She lives in Michigan with her husband and five children. She loves hearing from readers on Facebook and on her blog at www.jodyhedlund.com.

Guest Post from Jody Hedlund

30,000 Abandoned Children

By Jody Hedlund

Imagine a city where 30,000 abandoned and homeless children live on the streets.

Sounds like something from a futuristic dystopian novel, doesn’t it? Or something that might happen after a war or apocalypse or major disaster, right?

This exact thing actually happened in the 1850’s. And the city was New York City.

It’s hard to believe, but an estimated 30,000 homeless children roamed the dirty city streets and alleys of New York City.

30,000. Children. Let that sink in for a minute. That’s the size of a town.

Historians look back on that time and try to make sense what led to such horrific conditions for children. Of course, the influx of immigrants was at an all time high. Jobs and housing were scarce. Diseases were rampant. Hunger and poverty became a norm. (Orphan Train Depot)

As more and more people became aware of the enormous problem within the crowded slums, courageous heroes rose up and attempted to do their part to make a difference.

While we may not always agree with the methods that were used to save the thousands of homeless children, we can admire the men and women who could no longer sit idly by.

The Children’s Aid Society was started by Charles Loring Brace as one such attempt to help the hordes of homeless children. His “Emigration Plan” is better known today by the term “Orphan Trains.”

My latest series tackles various elements of the orphan train movement. Together Forever, releasing in May, highlights the placing agents, those devoted people who rode the trains with the orphans. The agents spent weeks and months on the road caring for the children, all the while trying to place them in loving homes.

(If you’d like to try out the series, start with my FREE novella, An Awakened Heart.)

Like the brave men and women who came before us, may we always strive to do our part to make a difference!

Blog Stops

By The Book, May 22

Pink Granny’s Journey, May 22

Blogging With Carol, May 22

ansel book blog, May 22

Reflections From My Bookshelves, May 23

Moments Dipped in Ink, May 23

Genesis 5020, May 23

Blossoms and Blessings, May 23

Reading Is My SuperPower, May 24

Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner, May 24

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, May 24

Christian Bookaholic, May 24

Just the Write Escape, May 25

Among the Reads, May 25

The Power of Words, May 25

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, May 25

Radiant Light, May 26

The Christian Fiction Girl, May 26

The Avid Reader, May 26

Janices book reviews, May 26

Daysong Reflections, May 27

Mary Hake, May 27

Carpe Diem, May 27

Jeanette’s Thoughts, May 27

Kathleen Denly, May 28

History, Mystery & Faith, May 28

A Baker’s Perspective, May 28

Simple Harvest Reads, May 28 (Guest Post from Mindy Houng)

Faithfully Bookish, May 29

God’s Little Bookworm, May 29

Christian Chick’s Thoughts, May 29

Cover to Cover and Everything in Between, May 30

Neverending Stories, May 30

Maureen’s Musing, May 30

Bigreadersite, May 30

Inklings and notions, May 31

To Everything A Season, May 31

Two Points of Interest, May 31

Christian Author, J.E.Grace, May 31

Have A Wonderful Day, June 1

Lighthouse Academy, June 1

Godly Book Reviews, June 1

Red Headed Book Lady, June 2

For the Love of Books, June 2

Vicky Sluiter, June 2

proud to be an autism mom, June 3

Bibliophile Reviews, June 3

Texas Book-aholic, June 3

Connie’s History Classroom, June 4

Pause for Tales, June 4

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, June 4

Reader’s cozy corner, June 4

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jody is giving away a grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card!!

Click below to enter: https://promosimple.com/ps/cee5/together-forever-celebration-tour-giveaway

 MY THOUGHTS
Jody Hedlund has been one of my favorite authors since I read her first book years ago. I have loved every single one of her books, and I highly recommend them! This orphan train series has been really interesting, especially on the historical side of things. I have read a few books set during this time and event but it is always good to think about what it must have actually been like. This book takes you into the background of the people that went with the children to place them, and the lives of the kids themselves. I have had a hard time totally getting into the characters in this new series. I really don't know why but they just haven't been my favorite of Jody's books. While still good, something just seems a little different in the writing. That being said, I am excited to read the next book and see where Jody takes us next! 

Four stars. 

"I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All opinions are my own."

With You Always Review

 

 About the Book

A Riveting Look at the Orphan Train from Historical Novelist Jody Hedlund

When a financial crisis in 1850s New York leaves three orphaned sisters nearly destitute, the oldest, Elise Neumann, knows she must take action. She's had experience as a seamstress, and the New York Children's Aid Society has established a special service: placing out seamstresses and trade girls. Even though Elise doesn't want to leave her sisters for a job in Illinois, she realizes this may be their last chance.

The son of one of New York City's wealthiest entrepreneurs, Thornton Quincy faces a dilemma. His father is dying, and in order to decide which of his sons will inherit everything, he is requiring them to do two things in six months: build a sustainable town along the Illinois Central Railroad, and get married. Thornton is tired of standing in his twin brother's shadow and is determined to win his father's challenge. He doesn't plan on meeting a feisty young woman on his way west, though. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

I love Jody Hedlund and I was super excited to read this book. I love the setting and the time period and the cover is beautiful! 

I really liked Elise and how strong of a character she was throughout the book. I liked reading the history and struggles of that day. The competition between brothers made me sad but made for an interesting story line. I guess I was bummed to see a father do that to his sons. 

The romance aspect didn't click with me at all. I don't mind that there weren't very many mushy scenes, that is fine. It just didn't seem like the characters connected in a good way. Their relationship felt awkward and forced at times and the constant sarcasm and teasing was a bit over the top for me. 

The best part of the book was the history and events and the secondary characters in my opinion. 

Four Stars. 

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

 

For Love and Honor Review and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: For Love & Honor
Author: Jody Helund
Genre: Young Adult Historical
Release Date: March 7, 2017
Lady Sabine is harboring a skin blemish, one, that if revealed, could cause her to be branded as a witch, put her life in danger, and damage her chances of making a good marriage. After all, what nobleman would want to marry a woman so flawed?
Sir Bennet is returning home to protect his family from an imminent attack by neighboring lords who seek repayment of debts. Without fortune or means to pay those debts, Sir Bennet realizes his only option is to make a marriage match with a wealthy noblewoman. As a man of honor, he loathes the idea of courting a woman for her money, but with time running out for his family’s safety, what other choice does he have?
As Lady Sabine and Sir Bennet are thrust together under dangerous circumstances, will they both be able to learn to trust each other enough to share their deepest secrets? Or will those secrets ultimately lead to their demise?

About the Author

Jody Hedlund is a best-selling and award-winning author who loves fairy-tales and happily-ever-afters. She makes her home in Midland, MI with her husband and five teen-aged children. When she’s not writing another of her page-turning stories, you can usually find her sipping coffee, eating chocolate, and reading.

Guest Post from Jody Hedlund

Is Chivalry on the Brink of Extinction?
By Jody Hedlund
With the release of Fifty Shades of Grey movie and its popularity, I can’t help but wonder about the long-term consequences that such ideology will have on how people view relationships.
Already, too many couples struggle to maintain happy, healthy relationships. In fact, it’s become almost a weekly occurrence to get news of another friend or acquaintance who is dealing with a spouse cheating or leaving.
Mutual respect, loyalty, honor, and self-sacrifice have become out-dated, forgotten, or tossed aside in place of short-term pleasure that often leaves people feeling hollow and empty.
I honestly can’t help wondering where chivalry has gone, and not just the man-doting-on-the-woman chivalry. But mutual chivalry, the kind where each person in the relationship puts the other in high esteem, uplifts them, and makes a concerted effort to protect and cherish (both emotionally and physically).
Has chivalry become antiquated in our modern society? And even if it has, should it be outdated and on the brink of extinction? Should we be making more of an effort to reclaim mutual respect in relationships?
The kind of respect that does things for someone with no thought of getting anything in return.
The kind of respect that is graciously honest about problems instead of sneaking around and being unfaithful.
The kind of respect that is willing to sacrifice and see the needs of others instead of demanding our way and our own needs be met first.
As my teenage children enter into dating relationships, I worry about the influence of movies like Fifty Shades of Grey. I worry that they’ll see dysfunction as the norm. I worry that they’ll settle for a lot less than they should in their relationships. I worry that they won’t even know the meaning of chivalry.
Of course, we’re having candid conversations about all of these issues. Of course, my husband and I attempt to model mutual respect. And of course, I’m praying my teens work on growing their own character so that they can be strong and ready for whatever they might face.
But one of the things I’ve done over the past couple of years is write a young adult (YA) series that is aimed at some of these very issues The third book, FOR LOVE & HONOR, just released this spring (and can be read as a stand-alone). Since the story is set in medieval times amidst castles, knights, and ladies, chivalry is already a huge part of that era.
More than giving readers a glimpse of chivalry, however, I hope the book sparks some discussion about what it means to have healthy, respectful relationships. The book contains reader questions at the end that youth groups, moms and daughters, or friends can use together.
It’s not just another dating book. Instead it’s a fun and entertaining story that can hopefully facilitate discussion regarding what it means to truly demonstrate chivalry in our relationships.
So what do YOU think? Is chivalry on the brink of extinction? What are some ways we can make sure that we don’t lose it?

Blog Stops

May 2: Lighthouse Academy

May 2: Inklings and Notions

May 2: Bibliophile Reviews

May 3: God’s Little Bookworm

May 3: Ashley’s Bookshelf

May 3: Blogging With Carol

May 4: Faithfully Bookish

May 4: Smiling Book Reviews

May 4: A Greater Yes

May 5: The Fizzy Pop Collection

May 5: Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner

May 5: Just the Write Escape

May 6: The Scribbler

May 6: Moments Dipped in Ink

May 6: Zerina Blossom’s Books

May 7: cherylbbookblog

May 7: Back Porch Reads

May 7: Jeanette’s Thoughts

May 8: The Artist Librarian

May 8: A Baker’s Perspective

May 8: Book by Book

May 9: A Path of Joy

May 9: Cafinated Reads

May 9: I Hope You Dance

May 10: Kristin’s Book Reviews

May 10: Black ‘n’ Gold Girl’s Book Spot

May 10: Neverending Stories

May 11: D’S QUILTS & BOOKS

May 11: Radiant Light

May 11: Karen Sue Hadley

May 12: Pause for Tales

May 12: Just Commonly

May 12: Have A Wonderful Day

May 13: Bigreadersite

May 13: Daysong Reflections

May 13: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations

May 14: Book Bites, Bee Sting, & Butterfly Kisses

May 14: The Important Things in Life: God, Books, & Chocolate

May 14: God1meover

May 15: thewitsabout

May 15: Faithful Acres Body Soul Spirit

May 15: Baker Kella

May 15: Remembrancy

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Jody is giving away all three books in the Noble Knights Series!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/b6fc

My Thoughts

As much as I love Jody Hedlund, I just could not love this book. The characters and the dialogue got on my nerves a few times and I couldn't get into the story line. I wish I could say otherwise but this just was not the book for me. I still love Jody Hedlund but not her young adult books. Also, I enjoy young adult books in general so this isn't saying anything against YA as a whole. I know other people have loved this book so this is just my opinion!
"Thanks to Celebrate Lit and the publisher for sending this book to me for free. All opinions are my own."

 

Top Ten Tuesday - Top Ten Books of 2016

Here are the top ten books for the year! I love doing this post every year so I can look back and see what all I read. This wasn't the best book year for me. I read quite a few that I didn't really enjoy, but these books are definitely worth reading! 

Here is to a new year with new books and fresh perspective!

Happy New Year!

The best book of the year hands down. I adore this story and the characters.

 

This is general fiction so there is some language etc. I have become a huge fan of Kristin Hannah though and I look forward to reading more by her.

 



 



 

This is an older book but it is fantastic for historical fiction lovers!!

It's Dani Pettrey-need I say more?!

 

This book was published by a different company than her other books so if you haven't heard of it or read it you need to!

Newton and Polly Book Review

 About the Book

Now remembered as the author of the world s most famous hymn, in the mid-eighteenth century as England and France stand on the brink of war, John Newton is a young sailor wandering aimlessly through life. His only duty is to report to his ship and avoid disgracing his father until the night he hears Polly Catlett s enchanting voice, caroling. He s immediately smitten and determined to win her affection.
An intense connection quickly forms between the two, but John s reckless spirit and disregard for the Christian life are concerns for the responsible, devout Polly. When an ill-fated stop at a tavern leaves John imprisoned and bound, Polly must choose to either stand by his side or walk out of his life forever. Will she forfeit her future for the man she loves?
Step back through the pages of history, to uncover the true love story behind a song that continues to stir the hearts and ignite the faith of millions around the globe." (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

Jody Hedlund has done it again. This book, while not my all time favorite of hers, is still a fantastic read. I loved going behind the scenes in Polly and Newton's life. The setting is great and of course the real life story, which very historically accurate, is a wonderful addition to my library. While this book spans about seven years, Hedlund did a nice job keeping the reader up to date and not confused. Hedlund is one of my favorite authors and she hasn't written anything I haven't loved.

If you enjoy historical fiction with a dash of romance you will enjoy this sweet novel. 

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

A Daring Sacrifice Review

 

About the Book

In a reverse twist on the Robin Hood story, a young medieval maiden stands up for the rights of the mistreated, stealing from the rich to give to the poor. All the while, she fights against her cruel uncle who has taken over the land that is rightfully hers. Forced to live in the woods and hide with the poor people she's grown to love, she works to save and protect them, but she never anticipates falling in love with the wealthy knight who represents all she's come to despise. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

 While this is not my favorite type of fiction, Jody Hedlund is a fantastic writer. So of course I had to give this book a try and I really enjoyed it. A spin on Robin Hood makes it fun and while predictable I loved all of the characters. I think there is more depth to this story line than many other books similar and there is a good deal of humor that made me smile. For a light fiction romance this is a fun read. It is good for young adult and clean romance. 
Five stars.

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

Undaunted Hope Review

 About the Book

Tessa Taylor arrives in 1870s Upper Peninsula, Michigan, planning to serve as a new teacher to the town. Much to her dismay, however, she immediately learns that there was a mistake, that the town had requested a male teacher. Percival Updegraff, superintendent and chief mine clerk, says she can stay through winter since they won't be able to locate a new teacher before then, and Tessa can't help but say she is in his debt. Little does she know that Percival will indeed keep track of all that she owes him.

Determined to become indispensable, Tessa throws herself into teaching, and soon the children of the widowed lighthouse keeper have decided she's the right match for their grieving father. Their uncle and assistant light keeper, Alex Bjorklund, has his own feelings for Tessa. As the two brothers begin competing for her hand, Tessa increasingly feels that someone is tracking her every move, and she may not be able to escape the trap that has been laid for her. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

 I am a huge fan of Jody Hedlund and have been anxiously awaiting for this book to come out! I love the cover, it's one of my favorites. But there were a few things that just didn't click with me and I didn't enjoy this book as much as I thought I would. First of all it is very similar to When Calls the Heart. Tessa is a new teacher in a new town and the main livelihood is mining. There is also a mean guy who thinks he runs the place (which he sort of does) but with all those things I felt like I was reading or watching When Calls the Heart. The only difference is that Alex works for the lighthouse which is a good I just felt like I had read this story before. Now if you haven't seen or heard of When Calls the Heart then you won't notice and will enjoy this book, as it is well written. The only other thing that started to annoy me was the dialogue. I know a lot of readers like it but it was far too sarcastic and flirty ALL the time. I understand friendly banter between characters but it seemed like they never had a serious conversation and the back and forth silly remarks just were a bit too cheesy for me.  

That being said, I know so many people will enjoy this book and I am still a fan of Jody Hedlund as she really is a talented writer. 

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