The Brothers' Keepers Book Review

About the Book

 

While cataloging looted antiquities in Brussels, archaeologist Grace Madison discovers that her daughter has vanished in France, and her son's bride has been attacked in Switzerland. After the Madisons unearth a relic whose taproot pierces the Ancient Near East, they realize that before they can save themselves, the must rescue an old friend. If he'll let them.

They sacrifice hearts and lives in a race against eternity on a four-thousand-year-old trail crossing three continents.

Because choosing what's right is all that's left. (Goodreads)

My Review

I really should have read the first book in this series. I felt a disconnect with the characters and that's really my own fault of not reading the first book. The overall idea of the story line is intense and there is A LOT going on. I was really confused at first because the story jumps around from people to place. It was hard for me to follow and honestly it was really hard for me to finish this book. I don't know if it's the way it's written or if it was simply me not getting into the story line. I have read good things about this author so I know others will really enjoy this book. It just wasn't the book for me. 

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

 

Purchase a copy:  http://ow.ly/EfxWh  

 

About the author:

After an award-winning detour through journalism and marketing and a graduate degree from Dallas Theological Seminary, NLB Horton returned to writing fiction. She has surveyed Israeli and Jordanian archaeological digs accompanied (twice!) by heavy artillery rounds from Syria and machine gun fire from Lebanon. Calmly tossed a tarantula from her skiff into the Amazon after training with an Incan shaman. Driven uneventfully through Rome. And consumed gallons of afternoon tea across five continents. Her first novel, When Camels Fly, was released in May, 2014.The Brothers' Keepers her second in the Parched series, will be released November 17, 2014. The third in the series will release in the fall of 2015.

Find NLB online: website, Facebook

Don't miss NLB Horton's The Brothers' Keepers—international suspense at its best. While cataloguing looted antiquities in Brussels, archaeologist Grace Madison discovers her daughter has vanished in France, and her son's bride has been attacked in Switzerland. After the Madison family unearths a relic whose taproot pierces the Ancient Near East, they realize before they can save themselves, they must rescue an old friend . . . if he'll let them.

Learn more about book one in the series, When Camels Fly, and enter to win a Kindle Fire.

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• When Camels Fly and The Brothers' Keepers by NLB Horton

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on December 7th. Winner will be announced December 8th on NLB's blog.

{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

Andi Under Pressure Book Review

About the Book

 

Twelve-year-old Andora ‘Andi’ Boggs and her new best friend Colin Carter couldn’t be more excited to attend the prestigious science camp at the local university in Killdeer, Ohio. Unfortunately, Discovery Camp’s curriculum appears to include much more than just chemistry and biology. From day one, the university is plagued by a series of pranks—missing markers, loose crickets, and stolen scales. Campus security blames the mysterious janitor Polk, but even though Andi agrees he’s acting suspicious, she can’t believe the gentle old man would do anything illegal. Then one prank goes too far and their chemistry professor is injured by an explosion in the lab, upping the stakes of the investigation. Andi and Colin must unravel the secrets behind the chemistry department and Polk’s dark past before danger closes the camp for good.

 My Review

I read the first book in this series, Andi Unexpected, and really enjoyed it. While the series is meant for young adults, I still enjoy reading them as well. I think I liked the first book better but this one was intriguing. Andi is a science camp when strange things start happening. She is very aware to her surroundings and is rather curious. She starts asking questions and keeping track of the happenings. The reader follows her sleuthing ways until the surprise ending where the guilty party is not who you think it is. 

This is a fun book, clean and laced with mystery for anyone to enjoy!

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

If You Follow Me Book Review

 About the Book

In the parish of Dunbridge, the news is out--Claire and Neil are engaged! And yet, almost before the celebrations have begun, Ben, the father of Claire's son, appears back on the scene--keen to pick up where he and Claire left off.

As Neil reels in the face of Claire's confusion, Wendy always seems to be there to provide support and comfort. Little does he know of Wendy's involvement in Ben's reappearance . . .

However, Neil has little chance to ponder his love life as the whole weight of running the church and parish descends upon his inexperienced shoulders. His mother, Iris, who has never hesitated to share her opinions, has just moved to be near him and Neil's time as a curate in Dunbridge is coming swiftly to an end. Where should he go next, and just who will go with him? (Goodreads)

My Review

 This book has a great setting and fun characters. This is the first book I have read by this author and while I enjoyed the complexities of the story line, it was a bit slow for me. There is drama and there is sweetness but it didn't always draw me in. I liked Neil's character and running the church I did like this part of the book. I like how the book ended and while slow, it was still a decent read with a hometown feel. This book reminded me a lot of Jan Karon's books so I know this series will be well liked by others!

Follow this link for a discount!

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

 

Christmas at Rose Hill Farm Book Review

About the Book

Bess Riehl is preparing Rose Hill Farm for her Christmas wedding, but her groom isn't who she thought it would be. Billy Lapp is far away from his Amish roots working as a rose rustler for Penn State and wants nothing to do with Stoney Ridge, his family, or Bess. And that suits Bess just fine. Why should she think twice about a man who left without a word, without any explanation? It's time she moved on with her life, and that meant saying yes to Amos Lapp, Billy's cousin and best friend. But as Bess and Amos's wedding day draws near, her emotions tangle into a tight knot. She loves Amos. Yet she can't forget Billy.

When a "lost" rose is discovered at Rose Hill Farm, Billy is sent to track down its origins. Get in, identify the rose, and get out. That's his plan. The only catch is that he's having a hard time narrowing down the identity of the lost rose, and he can't get those tropical blue eyes of Bess Riehl out of his mind.

As the history of the lost rose is pieced together, it reminds Bess and Billy--and Amos, too--that Christmas truly is the season of miracles.

Join bestselling, award-winning author Suzanne Woods Fisher for an Amish Christmas to remember. Filled with heart-twisting moments amid the sweet anticipation of love, this story will charm readers into the holiday spirit. (Goodreads)

My Review

I was actually happily surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. I have read many Amish books and I never know if I will enjoy them or not. This book has great characters-realistic characters that sucked me into the story line. I also LOVE all of the information about roses! I had no idea how anyone saved or grafted roses let alone think about the ones that were brought over from Europe. This book really spurred my interest in flowers, I think I might have to do some research myself.

The storyline is a bit predictable but I was still intrigued by the romance.

I liked this view of the Amish life as well.
Great Christmas read or anytime read.

Highly recommend! Even if you aren't a huge Amish fan, this book is really pretty good.

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

Dreaming on Daisies Book Review

 About the Book

When her father's debts, brought on by heavy drinking, threaten Leah Carlson's family ranch, she fights to save it. When handsome banker Steven Harding must decline her loan request, he determines to do what he can to help. Just as he arrives to serve as a much-needed ranch hand, Leah's family secrets—and the pain of her past—come to a head. They could destroy everything she's fought for. And they could keep her from ever opening her heart again.

This is western historical romance that offers hope and healing to the deepest wounds in a woman's past.

If you'd like to read the first chapter of Dreaming on Daisies, go HERE.

My Review

 This is the first book in this series that I have read and I finished it thinking that I hadn't missed much from the previous two books. I really loved the ranch setting as it reminded me of a couple other books I have enjoyed. I like how the characters really grew throughout the book. I haven't read too many books where the father has a drinking problem and yet is still connected and a main person in the story. I love that author put that story line in this book and I think it is the reason I enjoyed this book. 

Leah's character was really difficult for me to read, I really didn't like her character. That sounds awful and I know she had to be a strong character in the story, I just didn't enjoy her I thought it a bit over the top. I did like Steven and his patience and his place in the story. 

That being said, all of them grew and that is the point in the book. 

I still enjoyed this read and I give it four stars. 

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

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Dreaming on Daisies David C. Cook (October 1, 2014) by Miralee Ferrell

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Miralee and her husband, Allen, live on 11 acres in Washington State. She loves to minister to women (as a certified Lay Counselor with the AACC) or through her writing, riding her horse, working in her flower beds and playing with her dogs—her 7 lb, long-haired Chihuahua, Lacey, spends a lot of time on her lap while Miralee is writing. Miralee speak at various women’s functions and has taught at writers’ conferences. She’s been writing since 2005, and her first book released in 2007. Since then, she’s had 10 more books release, both in women’s contemporary fiction and historical romance, and she’s had the honor of being a best-selling and award-winning author.

Surprised by Love Book Review

About the Book

Shy and unattractive as a child, Megan McClare has always been teased by her classmates. But when she returns home from her senior year in Paris, the wallflower has suddenly blossomed into a beauty. With ambitions to become a lawyer or doctor, Megan accepts an internship at the district attorney's office only to discover that she will be working with Devin Caldwell, a boy who mercilessly mocked her at school--and with whom she was hopelessly enamored. She turns to her dear friend Bram Hughes for support and advice. But Bram's vision is clouded by his sudden unwelcome attraction to a girl he had always thought of as a kid sister. He advises forgiveness, but can he forgive himself for pushing the woman he loves into the arms of another man? (Goodreads)

My Review

This is not the first book in this series that I have read. I think they can be read separately but it would help to start at the beginning. Megan's character I just didn't really click with while reading. I liked Bram a lot but I thought a lot of the romance was a bit forced. The main thing that really irritated me this entire book is the fact that since she lost some weight she is now the prettiest gal they had ever seen. Her life can now start since she lost weight? What message is this telling women? If we only lost weight we would finally be accepted. That is just plain not encouraging and I certainly wouldn't want a young woman reading this and feeling discouraged about herself. There is nothing wrong with losing weight and getting healthy if you hadn't been before. I just don't think the way it's portrayed is done very well. Also, this woman got teased, so I understand the pressure but the way her family reacted was disappointing. Aside from that, the book had it's funny moments and drama just like in the previous books. There is no doubt about it, Julie knows how to write in a bit of humor.

It's a nice read just a bit slow and disappointing for me.

Three stars.

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

The Promise Book Review

VIA

About the Book

Mallory's search for happiness leads her to a faraway place. There she finds heartache, betrayal--and danger.

Mallory Hammond is determined that no one will stand in the way of her goal--to save a life. She had that chance years ago, and she failed to take it, leaving her adrift and in search of the real meaning of her life. Finally, she meets a man online from a volatile corner of the world who offers her the chance to find that purpose. But she will have to leave everyone she loves behind in order to take it.

Tate Webber has loved Mallory for many years. He understands that Mallory will never be happy with him until her deepest heart's desire is satisfied. When Mallory decides to travel across the world to fulfi ll her dreams, Tate begs her not to go but tries to give her the space she needs. Mallory embarks on her dangerous journey only to discover how swiftly and easily promises can be broken. And Mallory can only pray that she will make it out alive.

Inspired by actual events, The Promise is a riveting love story that asks the question: how far will we go for love? (Goodreads)

My Review

This book was not at all what I was expecting. Granted, I hadn't read the back cover until it arrived in my mailbox. This book was really refreshing because it's unique and also based on a true story. It's not a typical cliché romance and actually held a bit of suspense as Mallory is held captive and the reader has no idea what might happen. Honestly, I didn't see much of the romance in the book aside from the fact that people wanted Mallory to come home alive.

The only thing that irked me a bit is that her boyfriend at the start had a long conversation about faith and Muslim vs. Christianity. While I understand this is a real story, I was disappointed to see Christianity displayed as such a judgmental faith.

In any case, this book takes you right into a suspenseful story of a woman who makes a decision and tries to survive.

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

The 13th Gift Book Review

 About the Book 

After the unexpected death of her husband, Joanne Huist Smith had no idea how she would keep herself together and be strong for her three children--especially with the holiday season approaching. But 12 days before Christmas, presents begin appearing on her doorstep with notes from their "True Friends." As the Smiths came together to solve the mystery of who the gifts were from, they began to thaw out from their grief and come together again as a family. This true story about the power of random acts of kindness will warm the heart, a beautiful reminder of the miracles of Christmas and the gift of family during the holiday season. (Goodreads)

My Review

* For my usual readers, this book does have some strong language

 This is one of the best Christmas books I have ever read!! I loved this book and I love it even more knowing it's a true story. The book stars off with Joanne in a hurry taking her kids to school, muddling through the day to day, and dreading the holidays. With her husband recently having died their life has been spun upside down. I love how this book is written with honesty and fun. The family is struggling getting through the first Christmas without their dad until mysterious gifts start appearing. Nothing fancy just simple thoughtful gifts that go along with the song 12 Days of Christmas. The act of kindness from the mystery friends leads the family into the holiday season with a different perspective. 

Once shown kindness the family wants to do the same for others, which leads to many other great stories. 

This is a great book and a wonderful idea to share kindness for others. It doesn't mean money or a ton of time, just thoughtfulness. Of course this is all year round but it fit nicely into this Christmas story. 

Great book highly recommend!!

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

At Bluebonnet Lake Book Review

About the Book

Marketing maven Kate Sherwood’s world is fast-paced, challenging, and always changing. The last thing she wants to do is slow down to a crawl at Rainbow’s End, a dilapidated resort in the Texas Hill Country. But she cannot deny her ailing grandmother’s request to visit the place where she and her deceased husband spent one glorious week (albeit fifty years ago). There Kate meets Greg Vange, the resort’s handyman. But there’s more to Greg than meets the eye–billions more, in fact, as he recently sold his successful software company and is at the resort in search of what’s next for his life.
Kate isn’t looking for romance, but she can’t deny the sparks of attraction that fly every time she and Greg are together. She even starts to see potential in the rundown resort. Could there be a future there? Or will Kate’s long-sought promotion take her back to the big city? (Goodreads)

My Review

I really wanted to love this book but it was really very slow for me. I like Kate's character and the idea behind the story line but it was really hard for me to get into after the first few chapters. I like the setting and there are some amusing tidbits here and there.

I enjoyed the first book I read by this author I just feel like she could have added a bit more.

In any case it's a sweet read little romance and a touch of mystery.

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

Where Treetops Glisten Book Review

via

About the Book

The crunch of newly fallen snow, the weight of wartime

Three siblings forging new paths and finding love in three stories, filled with the wonder of Christmas

Turn back the clock to a different time, listen to Bing Crosby sing of sleigh bells in the snow, as the realities of America’s involvement in the Second World War change the lives of the Turner family in Lafayette, Indiana.

In White Christmas by Cara Putman, Abigail Turner is holding down the Home Front as a college student and a part-time employee at a one-of-a-kind candy shop. Loss of a beau to the war has Abigail skittish about romantic entanglements—until a hard-working young man with a serious problem needs her help.

Abigail’s brother Pete is a fighter pilot hero returned from the European Theatre in Sarah Sundin’s I’ll Be Home for Christmas, trying to recapture the hope and peace his time at war has eroded. But when he encounters a precocious little girl in need of Pete’s friendship, can he convince her widowed mother that he’s no longer the bully she once knew?

In Tricia Goyer’s Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Meredith Turner, “Merry” to those who know her best, is using her skills as a combat nurse on the frontline in the Netherlands. Halfway around the world from home, Merry never expects to face her deepest betrayal head on, but that’s precisely what God has in mind to redeem her broken heart.

The Turner family believes in God’s providence during such a tumultuous time. Can they absorb the miracle of Christ’s birth and God’s plan for a future? (Goodreads)

My Review

 
Usually these types of books I don't enjoy because the romance is so fast with three stories in one. This book actually surprised me and I really enjoyed it!

There weren't new authors to me so I knew their writing to be good. My favorite story is I'll Be Home for Christmas. The entire story line captured my full attention and I felt drawn into the character's lives. I thought this book gave a unique perspective on the war and families left behind. I would love to read more about Pete and Grace even though the story is short. 

The other books are good as well but didn't grab me as much. These stories are short, fast romance, but I think the authors did a great job tying the family together.

Abigail I enjoyed because of her job but the romance side of things I didn't like as much. Merry takes you onto the front lines of the war and she discovers a past friend. I liked the story but it could have also used more detail in a full length book. 

 I am really impressed with this collection and it made me want to snuggle up and dream of snowflakes falling. 

For a Christmas read, I'll have to say this is a must read. 

Five stars. 

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

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/BwVP9

About the authors: 

TRICIA GOYER is a prolific author of nearly forty books, including Chasing Mona Lisa, and a speaker and blogger. 

Website, Facebook, Twitter

CARA PUTMAN is the author of twenty books including Shadowed by Grace. She is the winner of the 2008 Carol Award for historical fiction. 

Website, Facebook, Twitter

SARAH SUNDIN is the critically-acclaimed author of the Wings of the Nightingale series, the Wings of Glory series, and the forthcoming Waves of Freedom novels.

Website, Facebook, Twitter

Fierce Convictions Book Review

About the Book

The enthralling biography of the woman writer who helped end the slave trade, changed Britain's upper classes, and taught a nation how to read.

The history-changing reforms of Hannah More affected every level of 18th-Century British society through her keen intellect, literary achievements, collaborative spirit, strong Christian principles, and colorful personality. A woman without connections or status, More took the world of British letters by storm when she arrived in London from Bristol, becoming a best-selling author and acclaimed playwright and quickly befriending the author Samuel Johnson, the politician Horace Walpole, and the actor David Garrick. Yet she was also a leader in the Evangelical movement, using her cultural position and her pen to support the growth of education for the poor, the reform of morals and manners, and the abolition of Britain's slave trade.

"Fierce Convictions" weaves together world and personal history into a stirring story of life that intersected with Wesley and Whitefield's Great Awakening, the rise and influence of Evangelicalism, and convulsive effects of the French Revolution. A woman of exceptional intellectual gifts and literary talent, Hannah More was above all a person whose faith compelled her both to engage her culture and to transform it. (Goodreads)

My Review

I feel like this time in history, with the African slave trade, is not mentioned or really thought about in history. There have been movies to make it better known and more books written but how many people realize what went on? 

This book takes you into the life of Hannah More who had an opinion and wasn't afraid to share her thoughts. She was a great writer and passionate about the slave trade and numerous other issues that were happening at that time. 

It's interesting to read how many people were involved with the slave trade and helped end the devastation.

The book is written in a way that makes it a bit difficult to read and very slow. Biographies can be written different ways, and while this book was interesting and a great learning experience it is a very slow book. 

For those who find this topic and time intriguing you will enjoy. 

Four stars.

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