Monday, July 31, 2017

To Wager Her Heart Review



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About the Book
 
With fates bound by a shared tragedy, a reformed gambler from the Colorado Territory and a Southern Belle bent on breaking free from society's expectations must work together to achieve their dreams—provided that the truth doesn't tear them apart first.

Sylas Rutledge, the new owner of the Northeast Line Railroad, invests everything he has into this venture, partly for the sake of the challenge. But mostly to clear his father's name. One man holds the key to Sy's success—General William Giles Harding of Nashville's Belle Meade Plantation. But Harding is champagne and thoroughbreds, and Sy Rutledge is beer and bullocks. Sy needs someone to help him maneuver his way through Nashville's society, and when he meets Alexandra Jamison, he quickly decides he's found his tutor. Only, he soon discovers that the very train accident his father is blamed for causing is what killed Alexandra Jamison's fiancee—and what has broken her heart.

Spurning an arranged marriage by her father, Alexandra instead pursues her passion for teaching at Fisk University, the first freedmen's university in the United States. But family—and Nashville society—do not approve, and she soon finds herself cast out from both. Through connections with the Harding family, Alexandra and Sy become unlikely allies. And despite her first impressions, Alexandra gradually finds herself coming to respect, and even care for this man. But how can she, when her heart is still spoken for? And when Sy's roguish qualities and adventuresome spirit smack more of recklessness than responsibility and honor?

Sylas Rutledge will risk everything to win over the woman he loves. What he doesn't count on is having to wager her heart to do it.

Set against the real history of Nashville's Belle Meade Plantation and the original Fisk University Jubilee Singers ensemble, To Wager Her Heart is a stirring love story about seeking justice and restoring honor at a time in history when both were tenuous and hard-won. (Goodreads)





My Thoughts

I have enjoyed many of Tamera's books and was eager to read this final book in the Belle Meade Plantation series. I can always count on her books being full of history and well thought out, developed characters. I really liked Sylas but Alexandra took me awhile to really like for some reason. I love the cover and the setting of this book, as always great secondary characters as well! The romance in this book felt rather awkward at times but that is much more realistic for a relationship. While not my favorite book in the series, To Wager Her Heart made a great addition to this collection of books and I eagerly await Alexander's next novel!
Thanks to the publisher for offering me a free copy in exchange for honest review. All opinions are my own.









Sunday, July 30, 2017

The Promise of Breeze Hill Review


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 About the Book

Anxious for his brothers to join him on the rugged frontier along the Mississippi River, Connor O'Shea has no choice but to indenture himself as a carpenter in exchange for their passage from Ireland. But when he's sold to Isabella Bartholomew of Breeze Hill Plantation, Connor fears he'll repeat past mistakes and vows not to be tempted by the lovely lady.

The responsibilities of running Breeze Hill have fallen on Isabella's shoulders after her brother was found dead in the swamps along the Natchez Trace and a suspicious fire devastated their crops, almost destroyed their home, and left her father seriously injured. Even with Connor's help, Isabella fears she'll lose her family's plantation. Despite her growing feelings for the handsome Irish carpenter, she seriously considers accepting her wealthy and influential neighbor's proposal of marriage.

Soon, though, Connor realizes someone is out to eliminate the Bartholomew family. Can he set aside his own feelings to keep Isabella safe? (Goodreads)



My Thoughts

I have enjoyed Pan Hillman's writing and was anxious to read this new story. I like the setting and Connor O'Shea is a great hero for this story line. It took me awhile to warm up to Isabella but in the end I enjoyed all of the characters in this book. At times it was a bit slow for me, though I know others have loved this book more than me. It was just a difficult book for me to fully enjoy. There is some sweet romance and good writing it just wasn't my favorite book by Hillman. 

Thanks to Tyndale for offering me a free copy to read in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.










Friday, July 28, 2017

A Very Thankful Prayer Review


 


About the Book
Every day I wake up with a happy, thankful heart.
From watching the leaves fall to picking pumpkins from the patch, from sharing a Thanksgiving meal with loved ones to learning how to give—there’s so much to be thankful for! Join these adorable animals as they say a prayer of thanks to God, who gives us every good thing.


My Thoughts

This is such a cute book. I love any books that include fall and children's books get really colorful when it comes to this season. This book will remind kids to be thankful, even for the small things. It covers general every day life things and then Thanksgiving. This is a board book so it is great for little ones! Highly recommend!

Thanks to BookLook for offering me a free copy. All opinions are my own.

Wednesday, July 26, 2017

On Love's Gentle Shore Review



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About the Book
When Natalie O'Ryan returns to Prince Edward Island to plan her wedding, she runs into her childhood best friend--and discovers that the love she's been looking for is right where she left it.




My Thoughts

I have LOVED all of these books but this one just might be my favorite. The story line really hit home and tugged at the heartstrings. I loved Natalie's character and Justin is one of my favorite male characters I have read in a long time. The whole book is about trudging through past issues and over coming them in order to move forward. There is romance and of course the setting is perfection! I liked reading about the characters from the previous books to see how they were all doing, so I recommend reading them in order. Honestly, my favorite part about this entire book is the friendship that Natalie and Justin have. 


Thanks to Revell for the free copy. All opinions are my own.















Saturday, July 22, 2017

Nichole Nordeman: Every Mile Mattered Album Review and Giveaway










NICOLE NORDEMAN “EVERY MILE MATTERED” CD Review & Giveaway

SOCIAL – CORNER

  ITunes 
   Spotify 
   Amazon

She has a book “SLOW DOWN” coming out in August, pre-order here




My Thoughts

I have been a long time fan of Nichole Nordeman. Her music I have always enjoyed because her lyrics stand out out to me. I have really enjoyed this new album especially knowing that the past few years weren't always easy for Nichole. The lyrics in many of the songs speak to my heart. Every Mile Mattered, Dear Me, No Longer, and Slow Down are my favorites!
If you need some new Christian music I recommend this new album Every Mile Mattered.


GIVEAWAY
Enter via the Rafflecopter below for a chance to win a copy of the Every Mile Mattered Album. This is an actual CD not an album download. This is open to the Continental U.S. only.



“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 on the same blog, 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.





Thursday, July 20, 2017

Gathering of Threads Book Review



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 About the Book

After three months ofdraus in da Welt, Ariana has returned to Summer Grove, the Old Order Amish community where she was raised for twenty years, and life with her Brenneman family. Skylar Nash, the Englisch-raised young woman is working in Ariana s cafe while getting to know her birth family and their Plain way of life. Skylar's time in Summer Grove has changed her outlook, just as Ariana has grown to see her personal faith in God in a different light than the manner she was taught while growing up. Both women will have to make decisions about their paths and Ariana must decide what role her childhood friend, ex-Amish Quill Schlabach, will play in her life.
Gathering the Threadsis the third and final novel in the Amish of Summer Grove series." (Goodreads)






My Thoughts

This is the last book in this trilogy about two young women whose lives got turned upside down starting in book one. If you haven't read these books in order, you really should or many things simply won't make much sense. I think this final book wrapped things up nicely. Both Ariana and Skylar grew a lot as did the many secondary characters. I feel like perhaps things were rushed a bit at the end. The story moved a bit slow for me and then all of the sudden the book was over and issues solved. That being said, Cindy Woodsmall does a terrific job when it comes to Amish fiction. If you aren't sure about reading Amish books, she is a great author to start with! While this hasn't been my favorite series by her, I still enjoyed these books and I look forward to what Woodsmall writes next!

"Thanks to Blogging for Books for giving me a free copy to review. All opinions are my own." 








100 Favorite Bible Verses- All in One Book!




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 About the Book 

Often readers don’t know which Bible verses to start with, and this book curates 100 best loved verses, each with a short application. It is also a great tool for Bible memorization. With content that is both timeless and encouraging, readers will love to read 100 Favorite Bible Verses and take to heart some of the most compelling messages in the Bible. (Goodreads)




My Thoughts

This book has a lovely cover and makes a person want to pick up it up automatically. This collection of verses would make a perfect gift to someone, perhaps for a new Christian also include the Bible. Each verse has a small little devotional type blurb to go along with it. There is a wide variety so that made this book all the better. There are a few pages in the back to add your own favorites as well. 
I think this is a beautiful collection of verses that would make great daily reading. I would encourage to not just read the verse in the book but then also pick up the Bible and read the verses connected with it for the perspective. 

Five Stars. 

"I received this book from BookLook Bloggers for free. All opinions are my own."















Wednesday, July 19, 2017

With You Always Review



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 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."














 

Saturday, July 15, 2017

My Daughter's Legacy Review


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Women of Unfailing Conviction

Virginia, 1864

Therese Jennings cannot abide the thought of her family owning slaves. When her wealthy grandfather dies during the Civil War, leaving his slaves and estate to Therese's widowed mother, Therese flees to Richmond. There she works as a tutor by day and a nurse by night. But when trouble befalls her family, how can she reconcile her duty and beliefs? And where does James Talbot—a long-time family friend—fit in her broken world?

Virginia, present day

After years of substance abuse, Nicole Talbot's life is back on track. She's found work at an equestrian therapy center and returned to college with the help of her wealthy grandmother—but that help comes at a price. Nicole must decide between honoring her bargain and doing what she knows is right, even if that could mean losing her new start, her family's trust, and a future with her handsome boss.

* * *

From the Christy Award-winning team of Mindy Starns Clark and Leslie Gould comes a thrilling tale of two women longing to make the most of second chances and find true love at last. (Goodreads)


About the authors:

Mindy Starns Clark is the bestselling author of more than 20 books, both fiction and nonfiction, with over a million copies sold. Mindy and her husband, John, have two adult children and live in Pennsylvania.
Find out more about Mindy Starns at http://mindystarnsclark.com.
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Leslie Gould, a former magazine editor, is the author of numerous novels, including "Beyond the Blue" and "Garden of Dreams." She received her master of fine arts degree from Portland State University and lives in Oregon with her husband, Peter, and their four children.

Find out more about Leslie at http://www.lesliegould.com/.
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My Thoughts

This book took me by surprise from the first few pages. I am sorry to say that I didn't read the previous two books before this one and I am regretting it! I LOVED this book! I now need to go back and read the previous novels. The switchback between 1864 and present was very well written and enjoyable to read. I loved the tie in with both story lines and the multiple characters all flowed nicely. There is a great suspense that goes along with the book that had me until the end. I learned a few history facts and truly enjoyed my time lost in the pages of My Daughter's Legacy. 
Five Stars. 

"I received this book from Litfuse for free. All opinions are my own."



Meet two women in different eras but both with unfailing conviction in Mindy Starns Clark and Leslie Gould's new book, My Daughter's Legacy. Therese Jennings cannot abide the thought of owning slaves. But when trouble befalls her family, can she reconcile her obligations with her beliefs? Nicole Talbot's life is back on track after years of substance abuse. But when facts she uncovers cast doubt on her family's legacy, she must risk all that she's gained-her fresh start, her family's trust, and her growing relationship with a new man-to unlock the secrets of the past.

Celebrate the release of Mindy and Leslie's new book by entering to win the $75 Visa Cash Card Giveaway (details below) and by attending their author chat party on August 1!


One grand prize winner will receive:
  • One copy of My Daughter's Legacy
  • One $75 Visa Cash Card
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on August 1. The winner will be announced at the My Daughter's Legacy Facebook party. RSVP for a chance to connect with Mindy, Leslie, and other readers, as well as for a chance to win other prizes!

RSVP today and spread the word-tell your friends about the giveaway via social media and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 1st!

Wednesday, July 12, 2017

Beneath Copper Falls-A Must Add to Your Summer Reading List


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 About the Book
USA TODAY bestselling author Colleen Coble returns to her beloved Rock Harbor—but both danger and romance hide in this idyllic small town.

Dana Newell has just moved to Rock Harbor to take a job as a sheriff's dispatcher and is settling in next door to Bree and Kade Matthews. The abusive relationship she left behind seems a distant memory in this perfect place.

Her first day on the job, Dana receives a call from her friend Allyson who screams "He's going to kill me too" before the phone goes dead. Dana immediately dispatches a deputy, but it's too late. Allyson's death is ruled an accident, but Dana just doesn't believe it. She knows Allyson—an investigative reporter—was researching a new story. Did someone want to keep her quiet?

Dana continues to look into the accident with the help of Bree and also Allyson's cousin Boone. Romance quickly blooms between Dana and Boone but the game is much more complex than either of them imagined. When Dana's ex-fiance locates her, she's caught in the middle. It’s a game of cat and mouse as she and Boone fight to catch one killer while evading another. (Goodreads)



My Thoughts


So I'll be honest, I haven't read all of the previous Rock Harbor books. BUT that being said I didn't feel like I was missing out on too much by reading this one as a stand alone. I love reading Colleen Coble's suspense. She really knows how to pull you into a story line, write strong characters (ones with depth!), and wrap it all up with an endearing romance. I so enjoyed this book, it had me sitting up ALL night anxious to find out what would happen. One part I enjoyed was getting a peak into the life of a sheriff's dispatcher. That is such a challenging job and I really liked how Colleen wrote it into the book. 
I don't want to give anything away but I am telling you this is a must read if you enjoy suspense! 
Definitely one you want to add to your summer reading list. 

"Thanks to BookLook Blogger for giving me a copy for free. All opinions are my own."





Monday, July 10, 2017

A Matter of Trust Review



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 About the Book

Champion backcountry snowboarder Gage Watson has left the limelight behind after the death of one of his fans. After being sued for negligence and stripped of his sponsorships, he's remade his life as a ski patrol in Montana's rugged mountains, as well as serving on the PEAK Rescue team. But he can't seem to find his footing--or forget the woman he loved, who betrayed him.

Senator and former attorney Ella Blair spends much of her time in the limelight as the second-youngest senator in the country. But she has a secret--one that cost Gage his career. More than anything, she wants to atone for her betrayal of him in the courtroom and find a way to help him put his career back on track.

When Ella's brother goes missing on one of Glacier National Park's most dangerous peaks, Gage and his team are called in for the rescue. But Gage isn't so sure he wants to help the woman who destroyed his life. More, when she insists on joining the search, he'll have to keep her safe while finding her reckless brother, a recipe for disaster when a snowstorm hits the mountain.

But old sparks relight as they search for the missing snowboarder--and suddenly, they are faced with emotions neither can deny. But when Ella's secret is revealed, can they learn to trust each other--even when disaster happens again? (Goodreads)



My Thoughts

What can I say? Susan May Warren is such a talented author I rarely can let a book of hers sit very long. As usual I couldn't put this book just because I enjoyed the characters and setting so much! The suspense is so fun to read and oh my goodness the underlying back story that has been going on through all the books is driving me crazy! Of course we only get tidbits in each book and won't find out the truth until the last book. So that being said, if you haven't read these books in order I highly recommend that you do simply for the crazy suspenseful backstory! 
Anyway moving on, there were a couple of cheesy romance type things that I didn't love but otherwise this made for an entertaining read. I have skied since I was five and grew up in basically the setting of this book so that made it extra special. I liked the ski patrol angle and I also think the secondary characters were superb! 

Great read, five stars!

"I received this book from Revell for free. All opinions are my own."






Saturday, July 8, 2017

Perfect Summer Reading- The Writing Desk


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 About the Book
Tenley Roth’s first book was a literary and commercial success. Now that her second book is due, she’s locked in fear. Can she repeat her earlier success or is she a fraud who merely found a bit of luck?

With pressure mounting from her publisher, Tenley is weighted with writer’s block. But when her estranged mother calls asking Tenley to help her through chemotherapy, she packs up for Florida where she meets handsome furniture designer Jonas Sullivan and discovers the story her heart’s been missing.

Born during the Gilded Age, Birdie Shehorn is the daughter of the old money Knickerbockers. Yet her life is not her own. Under the strict control of her mother, her every move is decided ahead of time, even whom she’ll marry. But Birdie has dreams of her own. She wants to tell stories, write novels, make an impact on the world. When she discovers her mother has literally destroyed her dreams, she must choose between submission and security or forging a brand new way all on her own.

Tenley and Birdie are from two very different worlds. Yet when Tenley discovers Birdie’s manuscript, their lives intersect. Birdie’s words help Tenley find a way home. Tenley brings Birdie’s writing to the world.

Can two women separated by time help fulfill each other’s destiny? (Goodreads)


My Thoughts

I love books that contain dual timelines. Rachel Hauck does a splendid job with this novel and I personally think it is her best yet! 
I truly loved all of the characters, even the secondary people who added to the story line. Tenley is a very unique character. Her personality is different from a lot of books similar to this and I love that because obviously everyone is different. I loved the twist at the end, not what I was expecting and very well done! I LOVED the historical aspect in the Gilded Age with Birdie and her struggles. I really didn't want that part of the book to ever end. As a reader I enjoyed peaking into the life of an author, that just added to the story and made it fun. 
If you are looking for a good book to read this summer, I highly recommend picking this one up! 

FIVE STARS

"I received this book from BookLook for free. All opinions are my own."