Feisty and Feminine Book Review

 

 About the Book

CEO and President of Concerned Women for America, Penny Young Nance is the new face of an emerging brand of conservative women who are tired of the political prattle, and she is ready to change the way women are portrayed. In her debut title Relevant, she takes an honest look at what it means to be a conservative woman with thoughtful beliefs that are increasingly relevant in today’s valueless world. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

I didn't really have any desire to read this book until a fellow blogger gave it a good review. I am not a huge political person and more often than not I just get frustrated with everything. But this book was really really good. It was written well and in a way for those of us who don't know everything about what's going on. I love how she writes the truth, the facts, and then asks what we can do as Christian women in each area. She writes about topics from sexual assault to ISIS. I really enjoyed the chapters on abortion and marriage, she really hits home on these issues and does it without being hateful.

If you are a conservative Christian who wants to read about politics and issues in our world, this is the book for you!! I highly recommend!

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

The Ringmaster's Wife Book Review

 About the Book

What is revealed when you draw back the curtain of the Greatest Show on Earth?

Rosamund Easling is no stranger to opulence. As the daughter of an earl, she’s grown up with every comfort money can buy. But when hard times befall the family’s Yorkshire estate in the aftermath of the Great War, Rosamund’s father sells her beloved horse, setting the stage for a series of events that would extend beyond even her wildest dreams.

Though expected to marry for a title instead of love, Rosamund feels called to a different life – one of adventure outside the confines of a ladies’ parlor. She abandons all she’s known and follows in pursuit as her horse is shipped to the new owner – an American entertainer by the name of John Ringling. Once introduced to the Ringling Brothers’ circus and knowing she has much to learn, Rosamund agrees to a bareback riding apprenticeship in the shadow of the Ringlings’ winter home—Ca’D’Zan. It is at that mansion, in what would become the last days of the enigmatic Mable Ringling’s life, that Rosamund finds a deeper sense of purpose in the life she’s been given, and the awakening of faith in her heart.

With a supporting cast of characters as mysterious and dazzling as the Ringlings’ big-top world, Rosamund’s journey takes her from the tradition of the English countryside to the last days of America’s Roaring ‘20s—a journey that forever changes what one life might have been. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

Oh where to start on this one. I have loved Kristy Cambron's previous books so this book was highly anticipated. The setting is grand of course and I really like John and Mable's story. I just felt like the story was rushed and there is a ton of back and forth in all different years. I'll be honest I was getting frustrated with this, usually I like the different time lines but it was like two time lines for each person. I thought it was too much and it took away from the story. I don't feel like I got to know any of the characters because of all of the jumping around. I thought the history part was interesting and overall a good story. I just wish it had been a bit more organized. Just my thoughts. I still look forward to her novels and I'm sure many will adore this book. 

Four stars. 

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

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/28JxcaK

 

Kristy Cambron fancies life as a vintage-inspired storyteller. Her second novel, A Sparrow in Terezin, was named Library Journal Reviews' "Pick of the Month (Christian Fiction)" for February 2015.

Cambron is an art/design manager at TheGROVEstory.com storytelling ministry. She holds a degree in art history from Indiana University and has nearly 15 years of experience in instructional design and communications for a Fortune-100 company. She lives in Indiana with her husband and three football-loving sons, where she can probably be bribed with a coconut mocha latte and a good Christian fiction read.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

Becoming A Woman of Excellence Book Review

 About the Book

Society beckons us to succeed--to achieve excellence in our appearance, our earning power, our family life. God Himself also beckons us to be women of excellence. But what exactly is He asking? If you're hungry for God's perspective on success in a society that bombards you with conflicting demands, feed on the truths of God's Word that you'll discover in these pages. You will not only learn to "approve the things that are excellent" but will also experience the joy of becoming God's woman of excellence. This bestselling topical Bible study has helped over one million women over the past 30 years, and is newly revised and updated so today's women can discover who God designed them to be in this day and age. Written by Navigator author and Bible teacher Cynthia Heald, the 11 sessions in this Bible study explore what your identity in Christ is and how you can best serve Him. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

This is the 30th anniversary edition of this book, so it is a pretty popular book. So far what I have gotten from this book is a very in depth, multiple question, Bible study. I love the organization of this book and the many verse references. I love the "thoughts and reflections from an older woman" sections. Great advice, good Bible backing on the topics, and truly shows you the Biblical meaning of a woman of excellence. 

Highly recommend!

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

Jilted Book Review

About the book: Jilted (David C. Cook, June 2016) Lynda Turner has struggled with depression since her husband abandoned her and their young daughter fifteen years ago. Yet unexpected hope awakens when a local ex-convict shows interest. As long-hidden secrets resurface, Lynda must fight for her emotional stability and for a life where the shadow of shame is replaced by the light of love. Jilted tells of a woman who has lost the joy of living, a man determined to draw her back toward happiness, and a town that must---once and for all---leave the past where it belongs. It is a gentle reminder that all things can work together for good. Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/237iWMF About the author: Varina Denman is author of the Mended Hearts series and a native Texan. She spent her high school years in a rural town and now writes stories about the struggles women face in similar small town settings. She and her husband live near Fort Worth, where they enjoy spending time with their five mostly grown children. Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest My Thoughts I have loved every part of this series and this book was simply wonderful. I love the nitty gritty details of life that Varina Denman is able to write about. She doesn't beat around the bush and she has such a way with making characters jump off the page. Lynda has been in the previous two books so I would recommend reading these books in order. Jilted has a great story that continues the other character's as well. Great book full of evidence of God's grace even in the worst of circumstances. "I received this book from Litfuse for free in exchange for an honest review."

Can all things really work together for good, and can the joy of living be found once again? Don't miss one woman's story in book three, Jilted, of Varina Denman's Mended Hearts series. Lynda Turner has struggled with depression since her husband abandoned her and their young daughter fifteen years ago. Yet unexpected hope awakens when a local ex-convict shows interest. As long-hidden secrets resurface, Lynda must fight for her emotional stability and for a life where the shadow of shame is replaced by the light of love.

Celebrate the release of Varina's Jilted by entering to win a $50 gift card.

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of Jilted to kick off a summer of reading
• A $50 Kohl's gift card to make your summertime sweet

The giveaway ends on July 1st. The winner will be announced July 5th on Varina's website.

June Evenings

New Delights

 

 Isn't this just grand! I was thrilled when I found this!

 Two tiny little eggs. : )

 

I still can't believe I live here..

 These little beauties will soon cover our fields. They are everywhere. God makes some pretty things.....

From This Moment Book Review

 About the Book

Romulus White has tried for years to hire illustrator Stella West for his renowned scientific magazine. She is the missing piece he needs to propel his magazine to the forefront of the industry.
But Stella abruptly quit the art world and moved to Boston with a single purpose: to solve the mysterious death of her beloved sister. Romulus, a man with connections to high society and every important power circle in the city, could be her most valuable ally.
Sparks fly the instant Stella and Romulus join forces, and Romulus soon realizes the strong-willed and charismatic Stella could disrupt his hard-won independence. Can they continue to help each other when their efforts draw the wrong kind of attention from the powers-that-be and put all they've worked for at risk? (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

 Yep, this was another all-nighter for me! Elizabeth Camden is one of my favorite authors and she has yet to disappoint. I loved this book and couldn't put it down even though I really needed to be asleep. I liked the setting in Boston and I never knew any history surrounding the city. Stella is just a great character, I liked her wit and charm. Romulus I had to warm up to. He was a good character for the part, Camden is brilliant at creating male characters that have unique personalities. There are fun science facts that added a lot to the story (you must read it to understand) and how magazines were printed was interesting. While there is a romance story, compared to Camden's other books this one was a lot less romantic. That doesn't make it bad it's just how I viewed the book as I was reading it. And if you haven't read this author before and you like this genre-you must pick up her books!

Great read, five stars!

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

Broth & Stock Cookbook Review

 About the Book

A cookbook from the author of the popular website The Nourished Kitchen, featuring 60 recipes for nutritious and healthy master broths, soups, stews, gravies and other dishes using poultry, meat, vegetable, and seafood broths.

Nutrient-dense bone broths are having a major moment: from the $8 per cup servings at New York "broth bars" to Kobe Bryant crediting its restorative properties for his improved athletic performance, broths are in the news and being turned to for their health properties. Jennifer McGruther is the perfect author to address this topic--a trusted authority on traditional foods who has been touting the value of broth since before it was trendy. The health benefits of broth are many: it is rich in protein, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and other trace minerals, which are easily absorbed by the body when consumed in liquid form. Bone broth has been proven to help mitigate the effects of arthritis and joint pain since it contains glucosamine, gelatin, collage, and chondroitin.Broth and Stock from the Nourished Kitchen features recipes for the broths themselves as well as soups, stews, and meat dishes that incorporate broths, and is the ideal guide for anyone interested in integrating these healthful concoctions into their daily lives simply and approachably. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

Who knew there was a difference between broth, stock, and bone broth? Who knew you could make broth with chicken feet? If you don't know these things this book has it all! Simple broths, to yummy soups, with minimal ingredients. The only tricky part is being able to find certain items, such as chicken feet. But I might just pass on that recipe because I don't think I could do it. But really this book gives good instruction on how to make broth and stock, which I think is wonderful especially for this generation. 

Four stars. 

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

Sea Rose Lane Book Review

About the Book

Three-Time RITA Winner Invites Readers Back to the Captivating Coastal Town of Hope Harbor
After a devastating layoff, attorney Eric Nash heads back to the town where he grew up--only to discover that his childhood home is being transformed into a bed & breakfast. Instead of plotting his next career move in peace, he's constantly distracted by noise, chaos--and BJ Stevens, the attractive but prickly blonde architect and construction chief who's invaded the house with her motley crew.
As for BJ, her client's son might be handsome, but after a disastrous romance, dating isn't high on her agenda. Yet when they join forces to create a program for Hope Harbor seniors, might they also find healing, hope, and a new beginning themselves?
Three-time RITA Award winner Irene Hannon takes readers back to Hope Harbor for a new season of charm, romance, and second chances. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

Oh what can I say. I so wanted to like this book! I love Irene Hannon but I just have not been able to get into this series. I like the setting, and this book took a new angle with Eric Nash, which I did actually like his character. BJ just wasn't my favorite and the rest of the story line I just couldn't get into. Hope Harbor seems like a lovely place though and I'm sure many folks would enjoy this book. I wish I could say better but I look forward to Irene's suspense later this year. 

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

All Summer Long Book Review

 

About the Book

Tia Gets a Second Chance at Love When an Old Crush Suddenly Reappears
Though it means giving up the chef's job at her uncle's small town Italian restaurant in Washington, Tia D'Amico is thrilled to move to San Francisco to help her aunt with a new business venture: transforming an old luxury yacht into an upscale floating restaurant. The icing on the cake is that Leo Parker, Tia's crush from a long-ago sailing camp, has been hired as the yacht's captain. The only problem is that he's engaged to someone else.
Tia hides her feelings and rolls up her sleeves as she sets out to make her aunt's dream a reality. But as the tide turns on Leo's relationship, does Tia dare hope he might set a course for her heart?
All the romance of a summer in San Francisco is captured in this delightful story from an author who has made a career of tugging our heartstrings. (Goodreads)

 My Thoughts

I didn't read the first book in this series but I didn't feel like I had missed anything. The book starts with Tia and how she needs something new in her life. Right then she gets a call for a new opportunity in San Francisco, which is a wonderful setting. I liked Leo's character, and that is about it. Tia drove me crazy as did Leo's wife to be. The drama, the instant romantic notions, the silly antics and conversations, I just couldn't get into it. It was too easy and the story line not very deep, I think what it came down to was Tia's character. I wish I could say otherwise and Melody Carlson fans will love this book I'm sure. It just was not the book for me. 

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

 

The Eleventh Feeln Original Series Review

About

Feeln is the leading streaming service that brings you heartfelt stories of love and togetherness - anytime, anywhere.
This May, Feeln launched its original series “The Eleventh” which stars a trifecta of TV legends including Florence Henderson (The Brady Bunch, Dancing With The Stars), Ed Asner (The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Roots, Up), Cloris Leachman (The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Malcolm In The Middle), and newcomer Ren Harris.
“The Eleventh” focuses on a young girl’s journey to getting to know her estranged grandmother in order to bring closure to the past and unite her family.  The series has heart-warming themes of family, forgiveness, healing, and love.

My Thoughts

 Over the past few months I kept seeing the name "Feeln" and thought it was a brilliant idea! A wholesome streaming service where you could watch good movies and shows at a great price! These days everyone just watches TV online so it works out. Feeln has come out with a new original series called "The Eleventh". After watching the first episode I admit I am hooked! They always have a way of ending things right when the story gets good! So far the show is clean and family friendly, though a tad slow a couple of times. The acting is good and I like where the story line is headed toward. If you like Hallmark type shows, I think this is one you need to check out! To watch full episodes of ‘The Eleventh’ on Feeln go to: here!

If you are into streaming videos I highly recommend this website! 

Thanks to Feeln for the opportunity to watch this show!

About Feeln: Feeln is the leading streaming service that brings you heartfelt stories of love and togetherness, anytime, anywhere. All movies are handpicked so you spend less time searching and more time with the stories you love. Feeln brings home the exclusive library of Hallmark Hall of Fame features, Hollywood movies and TV series, and award-winning originals you won’t find anywhere else