Thursday, April 30, 2015

Whenever You Come Around Review

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 About the Book

Will writing a romance help this author find a real-life hero?

Charity Anderson turned her back on Kings Meadow years ago, with good reason, and has avoided visits to her hometown whenever possible. But with her house in Boise damaged by floodwaters and a book deadline bearing down, staying in her parents’ empty home seems her only option. However, being in Kings Meadow dredges up a painful secret, and old fears threaten to overwhelm her.

Charity’s former high school classmate Buck Malone never left town, instead sacrificing his dreams to take care of his family. Now he enjoys an uncomplicated life as a wilderness guide and confirmed bachelor. The last thing on his mind is settling down.

When Charity’s dog causes an accident that leaves Buck with a broken ankle and wrist at the start of prime tourist season, Charity has little choice but to render aid while he recuperates. Soon Buck becomes the inspiration for Charity’s hero, both on the page and off. Can he also help her face and overcome her fears so they might find their own happily ever after? (Goodreads)


My Review

I have really loved the first two books in this series and so looked forward to reading this one. I'll be honest, I was disappointed. I still love Robin's writing but this book didn't seem to have as much depth as her other books. The setting of course is King's Meadow which I love, the characters were okay and the romance was pretty cheesy in my opinion. Everything goes just like you think it will and there really aren't any surprises. 
If you are looking for a light romance you will enjoy this book. 
I still love Robin Lee Hatcher and look forward to read more from her! 

Three stars.

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










Adventures in the East {Our Recent Trip}

{Note: I have two giveaways going on that are ending soon! A CD Digital copy for Christy Nockels and When Calls the Heart Season One! }






Appomattox Court House, VA

This is my man. He was so excited. Really this was his trip, it's something he's wanted to do for awhile.

LOVED This Place! Sailor's Creek Battlefield, VA. This is a place I could see myself living. I loved this area.



This was my favorite Antietam National Battlefield. Great staff, great info and well maintained.

Never in all my life have I seen so many daffodils! They were like a weed everywhere we went!



That tree in the background has indeed been there since the Civil War.

This was around Jamestown, VA. I wish I had taken more pictures but it was so cold and rainy (minus this picture).

I loved this front porch on this old house. It was perfect.
Us. : )
The beautiful house with the beautiful porch.



This is where we stayed one night the Antrim Country House Hotel.

Little did we know how fancy it was, or how popular! Our breakfast tray was wonderful!



I do wish I had taken some more pictures but it was rainy the majority of our trip and I didn't want to get my camera out. 

It was so fun and we found places we really enjoyed!











Wednesday, April 29, 2015

Reservations for Two Review



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About the Book

A culinary concoction of taking chances and finding love in the most delectable places


Food writer-turned-restaurateur Juliette D’Alisa has more than enough on her plate. While her trip to Provence might have unlocked new answers to her grandmother’s past, it’s also provided new complications in the form of Neil McLaren, the man she can’t give up.

Juliette and Neil find romance simple as they travel through Provence and Tuscany together, but life back home presents a different set of challenges. Juliette has a restaurant to open, a mother combating serious illness, and a family legacy of secrets to untangle – how does Neil, living so far away in Memphis, fit into to her life?

As she confronts an uncertain future, Juliette can’t help but wish that life could be as straightforward as her chocolate chip cookie recipe. Can her French grandmother’s letters from the 1940’s provide wisdom to guide her present? Or will every new insight create a fresh batch of mysteries? (Goodreads)



My Review

If this is a new author to you and you haven't read the first book in this series, you really must before you delve into this one. The two go together and not a lot makes sense without reading the first book. That being said, this story was slightly disappointing for me and hard for me to fully get into. I love Juliette and the food aspect is so fun to read. There are wonderful quotes at the start of each chapter that have something to do with food. There are also many recipes throughout the book which makes it fun. I can't wait to try the Tiramisu! My favorite parts of the book are when they are traveling or the historical aspect of her family's past. The romance didn't click with me and I didn't enjoy that part as much. I'm not against romance I just don't like it in this storyline.

Anyway this is a fun book that food and fiction lovers will enjoy.

Four Stars.

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



















Tuesday, April 28, 2015

Christy Nockels’ “Let It Be Jesus" Album Review and Giveaway!




 My Review

I have just been privileged to listen to this wonderful new album! Christy is a new artist to me and I really enjoyed hearing her voice. My favorite song is Everything is Mine to You but there are eleven songs that are wonderful I highly recommend for a worship album! 

Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway and for offering me a free copy.


About Christy:
As a worship leader for many years, she has been an integral part of Passion Conferences from its inception in 1997.  She's seen first hand music sweep people into the presence of God in a powerful way. A pastor’s kid, who was born in Fort Worth and raised in Oklahoma, she grew up singing in church. She met her husband, Nathan, in 1993 at the Christian Artists Seminar in Estes Park, Co. They recorded an independent record with fellow worship leader Charlie Hall under the name Sons & Daughters that led to an invitation from Louie Giglio to participate in the first Passion conference in Austin. Christy’s voice gained a national platform when she and Nathan formed the duo Watermark, recording four acclaimed albums before that musical season ended, paving the way for Christy’s solo career. In 2008, the couple moved to Atlanta to become part of Passion City Church where she serves on the worship team with sixstepsrecords labelmates Chris Tomlin and Kristian Stanfill. The following year, Nockels released her acclaimed solo debut, Life Light Up and spent much of the next two years touring with Tomlin and Passion.

S O C I A L • C O R N E R








 GIVEAWAY
Flyby has kindly offered for one of my readers to win a digital copy of Let It Be Jesus, the entire album! So enter through 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.”
 

After Acts Review


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 About the Book

If you've ever wondered what happened to the biblical characters after Acts-from the well-known Matthew to the lesser-known Bartholomew-then this book is for you. Join Dr. Bryan Litfin as he guides you through Scripture and other ancient literature to sift fact from fiction, real-life from legend.

Skillfully researched and clearly written, After Acts is as accurate as it is engaging. Gain a window into the religious milieu of the ancient and medieval church. Unearth artifacts and burial sites. Learn what really happened to your favorite characters and what you should truly remember them for.


Did Paul ever make it to Spain? Was he beheaded in Rome?
Is it true that Peter was crucified upside down?
Was the Virgin Mary really bodily assumed into heaven?
The book of Acts ends at chapter 28. But its characters lived on. (Goodreads)






My Review


 This book was not as good as I had hoped. Some topics were interesting when the author got more into the history side of things but some of the ideas I don't agree with. I guess I wasn't expecting so much of it to be about Mary but I did find some things about Paul to be more intriguing.


 
I don't think I could really recommend this book I'm sorry to say.


"Thanks to MP Newsroom for giving me a copy in exchange for an honest review."

 

Thursday, April 23, 2015

When Calls the Heart Season 2 Info and Season One DVD Giveaway







About the series:
The series is inspired by Janette Oke’s bestselling book series about the Canadian West. “When Calls the Heart” tells the captivating story of Elizabeth Thatcher (Erin Krakow), a young teacher accustomed to her high society life, who receives her first classroom assignment in Coal Valley, a small coal mining town where life is simple, but often fraught with challenges. Lori Loughlin plays Abigail Stanton, a wife and mother whose husband, the foreman of the mine, along with a dozen other miners, has just been killed in an explosion. The newly widowed women find their faith is tested when they must go to work in the mines to keep a roof over their heads. Elizabeth charms most everyone in Coal Valley, except Constable Jack Thornton (Daniel Lissing) who believes Thatcher’s wealthy father has doomed the lawman’s career by insisting he be assigned in town to protect the shipping magnate’s daughter. Living in a turn of the century coal town, Elizabeth will have to learn the ways of the frontier if she wishes to thrive in the rural west on her own.

I had the opportunity to watch the premier of season two and let me tell you it's going to be a crazy season! The romance is intriguing as ever and of course there is the coal mine issue, new characters, and new places, all packed into the premier! I don't want to give anything away but it's going to be everything we have hoped.



 GIVEAWAY!
If you aren't aware of this TV show you should check it out! The second season is about to air April 25th and I couldn't be more excited! I love this show because families can watch it and all ages enjoy it! If you haven't seen the the first season you have the opportunity to win When Calls The Heart Season 1 on DVD from Word Films!! Yes, the entire first season! So enter below for your chance to win! USA and Canada Only please. 

 










"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.”
 

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

The Art of Losing Yourself Release Day!






Hey guys! So it's Katie Ganshert's release day for The Art of Losing Yourself and I happen to be a big fan. If you haven't read any of her books you really must and this one is so very good. I wrote a review for it earlier this month.
Also, stop by Katie's Website to get to know her better.





Monday, April 20, 2015

Devotions from the Garden Review



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 About the Book

Come to the garden alone, and fill your soul with His presence.

There's nothing on earth like the peace and loveliness of a magnificent garden. It's the place where Adam and Eve first fellowshipped with God, and where you, too, can escape from this chaotic world into His loving arms of beauty and serenity."Devotions from the Garden" takes you to that place where senses are restored as dewdrops settle and butterflies gather to witness the miracles of God's creation bloom and grow. These ninety devotions explore the parallels of life with the elements of the garden to help you see God, to sense His presence, to soothe your soul, and to rest in knowing He is with you throughout each day. Included are striking photographs with a fresh, contemporary design for timeless appeal. (Goodreads)


My Review


This is a great book for quick morning devotions! It's a bit thicker than I expected and the cover is beautiful. I enjoy the authors take on gardening and flowers and how she spins God's love in ways that gardeners understand. I love the pictures in the book and I think it is well put together with Biblical truth. This takes our everyday ordinary and turns it into something that relates to God, because where does the garden come from anyway?! This would make a great gift book or even just to share. 
Five Stars.

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









On a Personal Note..

Hi! I know I never write these posts because I really don't find my life to be that interesting most days. But I have some new followers (thanks for following!!) and I thought I'd give a quick life update. So I have discovered some new music that I LOVE! So I thought I'd share with you so you can enjoy it as well!






I'm so glad my friend introduced me to Shane and Shane! 
We also just recently returned from a trip out east mainly Virginia so I'll be posting more pictures from that trip soon! 




Also be on the look out for following posts later this week, I have some exciting things to share!! (It may or may not include the upcoming season of When Calls the Heart!)

Thanks for reading. : ) 

Oh and a side note have you heard that Jonathan Crombie who was Gilbert Blythe in Anne of Green Gables passed away?! So sad!! This is my all time favorite movie so   Read Here.

Source


Source


Saturday, April 18, 2015

Finding Me Review


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 About the Book

A Contemporary Drama of Family Lies
and Forgotten Loves After her father and stepmother's accidental death, Kelli Huddleston sorts through their belongings and learns a shocking secret. Years before, her father faked his death during a boat wreck at sea--and faked Kelli's as well. He'd run from a wife, a son, and a daughter back in Tennessee, meaning Kelli has a family she's never known.
She's already cashed the payout on her dad's life insurance check and looks at it as her ticket to a new life. The lure and puzzle of digging into this hidden past is too much to resist, and she soon finds herself in Tennessee. When the trip threatens to open doors to the past better left shut, and her plans for the future are threatened, Kelli must make an agonizing choice that will change her life forever. (Goodreads)




My Review

 The storyline for this book intrigued me from the start. I think that this type of family difficulty is typical and this book sheds light onto what happens years later. Kelli thinks her family has all died long ago until she finds papers in her fathers safe after he dies. He lied to her for years and she has another family out there somewhere and being curious, she wants to meet them. I personally can relate to this pretty well though the circumstances were a little different. It's scary to realize you have another family somewhere that you never knew about and I liked reading about Kelli's journey. I also think this book proves how the choices we make today effect our family in the future. I do wish the last part of the book had maybe a better conclusion. I think the author made things too easy and too fast. In any case I enjoyed this book. 

Five stars.

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













Friday, April 17, 2015

The World Needs More Love Letters All-in-One Stationery and Envelopes






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 My Review


This collection of letters is so fun and usable! Basically the entire book is sheets of letters that you can fold up and mail. There are stickers included to seal the letter and all you have to do write and put a stamp on it! There are different creative ideas for love letters also provided in case you aren't sure what to write about. I think this is a great idea especially if you are traveling!! Very slim easy to pack with you book but if you need to write a letter you have all you need.

Highly recommend!

Five stars.

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











Thursday, April 16, 2015

Five Love Languages My Thoughts

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About the Book

Falling in love is easy. Staying in love-that's the challenge! How can you keep your relationship fresh and growing amid the demands and conflicts and just plain boredom of everyday life?
In the #1 New York Times bestselling book The 5 Love Languages, you'll discover the secret that has transformed millions of relationships worldwide. Whether your relationship is flourishing or failing, Dr. Gary Chapman's proven approach to showing and receiving love will help you experience deeper and richer levels of intimacy with your partner-starting today.
"If we learn to meet each other's deep emotional need to feel loved, and choose to do it, the love we share will be exciting beyond anything we've ever felt."-Gary Chapman
The 5 Love Languages is as practical as it is insightful. Updated to reflect the complexities of relationships in today's world, this new edition reveals intrinsic truths and applies relevant, actionable wisdom in ways that work. Practice the simple steps outlined in each chapter and you'll be on your way to a healthier, mutually beneficial relationship.
Also includes an updated version of The 5 Love Languages® personal profile. (Goodreads)





My Review

I had read this book years ago before I was married as it was the one book everyone told me to read. At the time I don't think I got as much out of it because I wasn't married. Reading it a second time was more thought provoking and we discussed our love languages and why we do the things we do. Why I love it when he takes out the trash and why he loves it when I hug him in the mornings. It's interesting because I do think people all have their own "love language" but it's really more about listening to your spouse and hearing what he/she is saying.

I recommend to those who haven't read it or need a refresher!

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



Wednesday, April 15, 2015

A Heart's Obsession Review


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About the Book
 
Can a woman held captive by her family make it back to the one man she knows she can trust?

When Sarah Montgomery's father succumbs to his long illness, Sarah is faced with a life-altering choice: submit to her brother's will and marry the deceptive Ben Croftner . . . or escape through the dangerous American West to reclaim the heart of her beloved Rand Campbell at Fort Laramie, Wyoming.

From captivity in her family's home, Sarah makes her decision--and begins the perilous journey to Wyoming by train.

But even in the company of Rand's brother, Sarah does not receive the reception she had hoped for. The necessity of a military wife has preempted her, and Rand is already engaged to Jessica DuBois, the seductive daughter of the post commander. With her heart broken and her life in ruins, Sarah has no choice but to remain at Fort Laramie and try to win Rand back. But things will get tougher before they get easier . . . the obsessive Ben Croftner has just shown up in Wyoming. (Goodreads)


My Review


 This is the second book in this mini series and I enjoyed it more so than the first! With only eight chapters you only get a little more of the story and the ending is abrupt. I really like Rand's character thus far and I look forward to seeing what he does with his career and romance situation. Sarah drives me crazy and her story hopefully will get better! This book adds a mix up to the romance side of the story-and an added threat to their safety. I look forward to the next book to see where this story line leads. 


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














 





Can a woman held captive by her family make it back to the one man she knows she can trust? Find out in book two, A Heart's Obsession, of Colleen Coble's Journey of the Heart series. When Sarah Montgomery’s father succumbs to his long illness, Sarah is faced with a life-altering choice: submit to her brother’s will and marry the deceptive Ben Croftner . . . or escape through the dangerous American West to reclaim the heart of her beloved Rand Campbell at Fort Laramie, Wyoming.

Celebrate book two in Colleen's A Journey of the Heart series by entering to win a Kindle Fire and RSVPing to her May 5th author chat party!

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One grand prize winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire
  • A copy of A Heart's Disguise
  • A copy of A Heart's Obsession
  • A copy of The Inn at Ocean's Edge (blog tour coming in mid-April)
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 7th. Winner will be announced May 8th on Colleen's website. Plus be sure to clear your calendar on the evening of May 5th because Colleen is hosting an author chat party on Facebook to celebrate her A Journey of the Heart series and the release of The Inn at Ocean's Edge! RSVP here!

heartsobsession-enterbanner

RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on May 5th!

Monday, April 13, 2015

Buried Secrets Review


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About the Book


After seven years as a Chicago homicide detective, Lisa Grant has hit a wall. Ready for a kinder, gentler life, she takes a job as a small-town police chief. But the discovery of a human skeleton by a construction crew at the edge of town taxes the resources of her department. A call for assistance brings detective Mac McGregor, an ex-Navy SEAL, to her doorstep. As they work to solve the mystery behind the unmarked grave, danger begins to shadow them. Someone doesn't want this dead person telling any tales--and will stop at nothing to make certain a life-shattering secret stays buried.
Master storyteller Irene Hannon is back with an exciting new series featuring former special forces operatives now in the thick of the action in civilian life. Hannon is at the top of her game in this can't-put-it-down thriller that will have readers up until the wee hours devouring every page. (Goodreads)



My Review

I really enjoy Irene's writing and this book is the start to a new series The Men of Valor. This book started a little slow for me. I liked the premise but then the personal storyline with Lisa and Mac didn't captivate me as much I wished. I liked reading about how the murder happened, and what the team does to figure out what happened so long ago. It's a good mystery but the reader knows both sides of the story while reading. About the middle of the book something happens that I was not expecting at all but it added to the storyline. The ending was pretty predictable and I was more interested in the mystery than the romance.
I enjoyed this book but it wasn't as suspenseful as some of her other books. It's still a great story though and recommended!

Four stars.

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







Jaded Book Review-This is a must read!

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 About the Book
As a child, Ruthie was shunned by the local congregation. Thirteen years later, Ruthie’s heart begins to stir when an attractive single preacher arrives. But their relationship is bitterly opposed—unearthing a string of secrets which threaten to turn the church, the town, and her world upside-down.

Jaded is the rare novel that is both love story between a woman and man ... and God and His church. Plunging deep into the waters of shame, forgiveness and restoration, it will resonate with every woman who’s experienced a loss of heart ... and a thirst for hope.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Jaded, go HERE.


My Review

This book is fantastic in every way and has made it onto my favorite list! Church hurt is so relevant to many people and hits close to home for me personally. Ruthie and her mom have experienced excommunication from the church based on gossip that occurred when Ruthie was little. Ever since Ruthie and her mom have considered any Christian to be a hypocrite and refuse to become friends with them. A new family comes into town and Ruthie is confused to discover not only are they Christians but one of the men is the new preacher! The small town setting, the dialogue, the characters, and realistic portrayal of emotions blew me away in this book. I love how faith isn't portrayed as being a duty or something to shove into peoples faces but shown through your personal life and actions. The romance is sweet and not overdone and the author couldn't have done a better job. I can't wait to read her next novel.

This is a wonderful book and I hope to share it with everyone I know!

Five stars.


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






This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Jaded
David C. Cook (March 1, 2015)
by
Varina Denman


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:


An avid reader and blogger, Varina Denman enjoys writing fiction about Christian women and the unique struggles they face. She seems to have a knack for describing small town life, and is currently working on a three book Texas series which will soon be published by David C. Cook. The first book in the series, Jaded, won the 2013 ACFW Genesis contest for romance.

Varina attended three Texas universities over a span of five years, majoring in four subjects and earning zero degrees. However, she can now boast sixteen years as a home educator, volunteering in the local cooperative where she has taught numerous subjects including creative writing and literature.

Even though Varina has spoken at ladies’ retreats and taught women’s Bible classes, she finds the greatest fulfillment facilitating prayer groups. She lives in Burleson, Texas, where she helps with Family Ministry in her home congregation. Varina is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and North Texas Christian Writers.




Sunday, April 12, 2015

The Inn At Ocean's Edge Review



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 About the Book

A vacation to Sunset Cove was her way of celebrating and thanking her parents. After all, Claire Dellamore's childhood was like a fairytale. But with the help of Luke Elwell, Claire discovers that fairytale was really an elaborate lie . . .

The minute she steps inside the grand Inn at Ocean's Edge, Claire Dellamare knows something terrible happened there. She feels it in her bones. Her ensuing panic attack causes a scene, upsetting her parents. Claire attempts to quiet her nerves with a walk on the beach, to no avail. She's at too great a distance to make out details, but she believes she witnesses a murder on a nearby cliff. When local police find no evidence of foul play, they quickly write off the "nervous" woman's testimony as less than credible.

But Luke Elwell, home on leave from the Coast Guard, has reason to believe Claire. Years ago when his mother went missing, Luke's father suspected she'd been murdered. He died never having convinced the police to investigate. So when an employee of the grand hotel doesn't show up for work, Luke steps in to help Claire track down the missing woman.

As Claire and Luke put together the pieces of a decades-old mystery, they discover that some family secrets refuse to stay buried. And some passions are worth killing for. (Goodreads)

 My Review

I have really enjoyed reading Colleen's suspense books. While this book is somewhat similar to the Hope Beach novels, I still couldn't put it down! She always has a way to keep the reader engaged and hanging onto their seat (aka not budge from their couch for hours). I really like Claire and how she was anxious yet strong and tried to remember her past. I loved the family dynamics because it's all a huge disaster but I felt like that made it more realistic. I love Luke but I wish he had a bigger point of view in the story line. I felt like his life could have been written about a bit more. The mystery is wonderful and right when you think you have it all figured out, you don't. Such great writing and if you need some romance with a bit of mystery and murder this book is for you!!

Highly recommend and encourage you to read her Hope Beach Novels as well!


 Five Stars.

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








Friday, April 10, 2015

A Sparrow in Terezin Review




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About the Book

Two women, one in the present day and one in 1942, each hope for a brighter future. But they'll both have to battle through their darkest days to reach it.

"Today. "With the grand opening of her new gallery and a fairytale wedding months away, Sera James appears to have a charmed life. But in an instant, the prospect of a devastating legal battle surrounding her fiance threatens to tear her dreams apart. Sera and William rush to marry and are thrust into a world of doubt and fear as they defend charges that could separate them for life.

"June 1942. "After surviving the Blitz bombings that left many Londoners with shattered lives, Kaja Makovsky prayed for the war to end so she could return home to Prague. But despite the horrors of war, the gifted journalist never expected to see a headline screaming the extermination of Jews in work camps. Half-Jewish with her family in danger, Kaja has no choice but to risk everything to get her family out of Prague. But with the clutches of evil all around, her escape plan crumbles into deportation, and Kaja finds herself in a new reality as the art teacher to the children of Terezin.

Bound by a story of hope and the survival of one little girl, both Sera and Kaja will fight to protect all they hold dear. (Goodreads)



My Review

I really am a fan of Kristy Cambron and this book didn't disappoint. While I did enjoy the first book more so this one was still great in it's own way. I enjoyed the historical storyline more but the story from the first continues so I recommend reading the books in order. Going back to life during the war is always thought provoking for me because I simply can't imagine. Seeing the things they saw I really liked how the author included the questions that went through Kaja's mind when in Terezin. I think the faith aspect and sticking close to God is a main theme and I thought it was really well written. While this book is historical it kept my interest which I think can be a challenge for authors. I liked how the book ended on both sides and I look forward to what Kristy writes next!

Five stars!

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




Bound together across time, two women will discover a powerful connection in Kristy Cambron's new book, A Sparrow in Terezin. Connecting across a century through one little girl, a Holocaust survivor with a foot in each world, two women will discover a kinship that springs even in the darkest of times. In this tale of hope and survival, Sera and Kája must cling to the faith that sustains and fight to protect all they hold dear—even if it means placing their own futures on the line.

Kristy is celebrating by giving away a basket filled with goodies inspired by her new book!

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One grand prize winner will receive:
  • A set of poppy notecards
  • A poppy pin
  • A copy of I Never Saw Another Butterfly
  • A copy of the Mrs. Miniver DVD
  • Literary tea bags
  • Tumbler
  • A copy of A Sparrow in Terezin
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Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 28th. Winner will be announced April 29th on Kristy's blog.

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{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

Thursday, April 9, 2015

Crossroads Book Review-Fantastic!


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a Miller's Creek novel and Christian contemporary romance


 


A former soldier battles for the soul of a prodigal...


 


After a devastating divorce, a bitter single mom and atheist starts her own real estate company in the nostalgic and picturesque town of Miller’s Creek, Texas. Then her young daughter’s disturbing symptoms lead doctors to discover that her leukemia has relapsed. With her new life now turned upside down, Mara Hedwig struggles to keep her business afloat. And her daughter’s worsening condition forces her to rethink her beliefs about Carter Callahan and his God. Will Mara make the return to Christian faith in the face of life’s greatest challenge?


An ex-military operative struggles with the return to civilian life while coping with his rebellious teen-aged daughter. During a house-search, Carter meets Mara, a headstrong Realtor who wants nothing to do with his God. But when Mara’s little girl is diagnosed with leukemia, the clock begins ticking for him to convince Mara to return to a life of faith. Just as he seems to be making headway, circumstances beyond his control throw his efforts into a tailspin. Can Carter learn to rest in the sovereignty of God?





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Amazon best-selling author Cathy Bryant writes Christian fiction set in the heart of Texas. Her popular romance and romantic suspense novels take place in the fictional town of Miller's Creek, where folks are friendly, the iced tea is sweet, and Mama Beth's front porch beckons. All the Miller's Creek novels have been on the Amazon Best-Seller list and are rated at 4.5 stars or higher on Amazon. Her debut novel, TEXAS ROADS, was a 2009 ACFW Genesis finalist. Since then five other stand-alone novels have been added to the series, one of which was a reader-nominated 2013 Grace Award nominee (PILGRIMAGE OF PROMISE). Readers have compared her work to that of Karen Kingsbury and Nicholas Sparks. 

A native Texan, Cathy currently resides in the beautiful Sangre de Cristo mountains of northern New Mexico with her minister husband of over thirty years. She's written devotions for The Upper Room devotional magazine, two devotional books in collaboration with other Christian authors, and for online sites. She also has released a Bible study book, THE FRAGRANCE OF CRUSHED VIOLETS. In addition to her writing, she enjoys thrift store shopping, romping in the great outdoors, and mini-farming. To learn more about Cathy and her books, visit her website at www.CatBryant.com or make contact with her in these places:





My Review

I have been pleasantly surprised by Cathy's books thus far. This is the second book that I've read in the Miller's Creek series and I'm a fan! Cathy's writing is so very good and her characters have depth and emotion. This book is about Mara and I really loved getting to know her and her daughter. I found the storyline to be realistic and the conversations about God interesting to read. Carter shows Mara what it really means to have a relationship with Christ and I think that was a strong point in the storyline. Mara's daughter starts to get sick again and it pulls the readers into the life of a single mom struggling to make ends meet.


This is such a great book and it reminds me a bit of Katie Ganshert's writing.


Highly recommend!!


Five stars.


"Thanks to Cathy for offering me a free copy in exchange for an honest review."



 

Order CROSSROADS here: http://bit.ly/CRKAA

(You can also snag a free digital copy of TEXAS ROADS by subscribing to Cathy's monthly newsletter. Your e-mail will be kept confidential, and you can unsubscribe at any time.)


Read the first chapter here!






 

YOU'RE INVITED!

 

What: CROSSROADS Book Launch Party

 

Where: Facebook (from the comfort & convenience of your own home)

 

When: April 30, 2015 ~ 7:00-8:30 p.m. (Central time)

 

Why: To celebrate the book launch of CROSSROADS (a Miller's Creek novel and Christian Romance by Cathy Bryant)

 

LOTS of Fun, Games and Prizes!

 

Prizes Include: Miller's Creek pens, tote bags, t-shirts, mugs, digital books, autographed print books, Amazon gift cards, and

an Amazon Kindle Fire HD6!