The Hidden Side Review

 

 About the Book

New York, 2016
Natalie Abbott offers answers for hurting listeners on her popular radio program. But she struggles to connect with her teenagers, with her daughter in an unhealthy relationship and her son uncommunicative and isolated. When one member of the family commits an unspeakable act, Natalie is forced to uncover who she truly is under the façade of her radio persona.

New York, 1776
Mercy Howard is shocked when her fiancé, Nathan Hale, is arrested and hanged as a spy. When she’s asked to join the revolutionary spy ring in Manhattan, she sees an opportunity to avenge Nathan’s death. But keeping her true loyalties hidden grows increasingly harder as the charming Major John Andre of the King’s Army becomes more to her than a target for intelligence.

Mercy’s journals comfort Natalie from across the centuries as both women struggle with their own secrets and shame, wondering how deep God’s mercy extends. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

Wow. This book. As I started flipping pages I realized how much this book was not what I was expecting, it was better! This is a dual timeline, which I love! The modern day story line was the one I really got into, though both are good. This story takes you right into the middle of the mess of a school shooting and the family of the shooter. Holy goodness this was a difficult read! I had really never thought about how the family must feel if their own child was the shooter. This was dealt with so well and it really made me think. I finished this book a few days ago and it is still sticking with me. This book could also bring up interesting conversation. I loved how the characters grew and while it wasn't an easy read it was well worth it. The historical aspect was difficult for me to love so that makes me give this book a four star rating. 

Four Stars. 

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

Things I Never Told You Review

 

 About the Book

It's been ten years since Payton Thatcher's twin sister died in an accident, leaving the entire family to cope in whatever ways they could. No longer half of a pair, Payton reinvents herself as a partner in a successful party-planning business and is doing just fine--as long as she manages to hold her memories and her family at arm's length.

But with her middle sister Jillian's engagement, Payton's party-planning skills are called into action. Which means working alongside her opinionated oldest sister, Johanna, who always seems ready for a fight. They can only hope that a wedding might be just the occasion to heal the resentment and jealousy that divides them . . . until a frightening diagnosis threatens Jillian's plans and her future. As old wounds are reopened and the family faces the possibility of another tragedy, the Thatchers must decide if they will pull together or be driven further apart. (Goodreads)



My Thoughts

This is such a great book on so many levels. The writing is superb and the many characters add so much depth. There is a lot going on in this book, but it is so well written that it flows nicely. I loved the dynamic between the sisters and the whole family. I love books with family and a family with issues at that. I really could go on but I so enjoyed this book. I am eager to read the next in the series and if you haven't read any books by Beth Vogt you MUST! 


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

Honeysuckle Dreams Review

 

 About the Book

After Brady Collins’ ex-wife dies, he receives devastating news—his nine-month-old son Sam isn’t his son at all. And Sam’s wealthy maternal grandparents want custody of the child. Brady knows he’s in for the fight of his life. But regardless of what any blood test says, Sam is his son, and Brady will go to any lengths to keep him.

Brady’s attorney tips him off that one major life change would virtually assure him of winning guardianship of baby Sam at the final hearing: an impending marriage. And his friend Hope is willing to step in as the loving and devoted fiance.

Local radio celebrity Hope Daniels has been driven by a solitary goal her entire life, and after a happy accident she’s finally offered her dream job. But if the truth comes out about her arrangement with Brady, she may miss the chance of a lifetime and stand in the way of a dear friend’s dreams.

As Brady and Hope make sacrifices to help each other in their times of need, they risk uncovering a truth neither of them expects to find. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

I so enjoyed this book! I read it in an evening and while this isn't a terribly long book, it had just the right amount of everything to make it a solid read. The only slight thing I had issues with, as I have with other Hunter books, is the focus on physical beauty and appearance. I understand this is a romance story, but truly this part is overdone and for some reason it just bothers me. This book has such a great story line relevant to many issues people have. I loved the radio host career that Hope has, such a great addition and unique! The love story is so very well written dealing with personal struggles and really getting the heart of a marriage starting with friendship. This is one of Denise Hunter's best novels in my opinion.  Five stars.

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

Treacherous Trails Review Tour with Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Title: Treacherous Trails
Author: Dana Mentink
Genre: Inspy Romanctic Suspense
Release Date: March, 2018
Falsely accused…
Can she escape the real killer?
In this second installment in the Gold Country Cowboys series, farrier Ella Cahill is accused of murder—and only former marine Owen Thorn, her brother’s best friend, can help clear her name. Now with someone trying to kill Ella, Owen must protect her…despite his promise to her brother to stay away from her. But can they work together to find the true killer before she becomes the next to die?

Click here to purchase your copy.

About the Author

Dana Mentink is a two time American Christian Fiction Writers Carol Award winner, a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award and a Holt Medallion winner. She is a national bestselling author of over thirty five titles in the suspense and lighthearted romance genres. She is pleased to write for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense, Harlequin Heartwarming and Harvest House. Dana was thrilled to be a semi-finalist in the Jeanne Robertson Comedy With Class Competition. Besides writing, she busies herself teaching third grade. Mostly, she loves to be home with Papa Bear, teen bear cubs affectionately nicknamed Yogi and Boo Boo, Junie, the nutty terrier, a chubby box turtle and a feisty parakeet. You can connect with Dana via her website at danamentink.com, on Facebook, YouTube (Author Dana Mentink) and Instagram (dana_mentink.)

Guest Post from Dana Mentink

Howdy, friends! I am so thrilled to be galloping into the second book in the Gold Country Cowboy series with you. This book was a hoot to write. It’s got a nice twisty mystery and plenty of danger! Our hero, twin Owen Thorn, is a Marine doing his darnedest not to fall in love with his brother’s little sister, but you know how these things go, don’t you, partners? There’s trouble ahead in cowboy country and this story will take you on a wild gallop to the happy ending! God bless and thanks for coming along!

Blog Stops

Reading Is My SuperPower, April 12

Lighthouse Academy, April 12

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, April 12

Daysong Reflections, April 13

Karen Sue Hadley, April 13

Janices book reviews, April 13

Book by Book, April 14

Ashley’s Bookshelf, April 14

Jeanette’s Thoughts, April 14

History, Mystery & Faith, April 15

C Jane Read, April 15

The Power of Words, April 15

To Everything a Season, April 16

Among the Reads, April 16

Genesis 5020, April 16

A Baker’s Perspective, April 17

Two Points of Interest, April 17

Carpe Diem, April 18

Cafinated Reads, April 18

Maureen’s Musings, April 19

Simple Harvest Reads, April 19 (Guest Post from Mindy Houng)

Pause for Tales, April 20

Have A Wonderful Day, April 20

Because I said so – and other adventures in parenting, April 21

proud to be an autism mom, April 21

Bibliophile Reviews, April 22

A Greater Yes, April 22

Texas Book-aholic, April 23

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 23

Artistic Nobody, April 23 (Spotlight)

Kat’s Corner Books, April 24

Red Headed Book Lady, April 24

Bigreadersite, April 24

margaret kazmierczak, April 25 (Interview)

Raining Butterfly Kisses, April 25

Remembrancy, April 25

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Dana is giving away a grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card, Cornbread Mix, and Cowboy Caviar Salsa!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/ca46

 My Thoughts

 This is the second book by Dana I have read and I am really impressed with her writing! I loved this book! The setting feels like home to me and the characters are just very well written. I love the adventure and mystery and while some parts were slightly predictable, other parts had me biting my nails! I love Owen and his story. I think the romance was well written and the characters really grew. If you haven't read a book by Dana Mentink I highly recommend!! 

Five stars!

"I received this book from the author. All opinions are my own."

My Favorite Amish Stories

So I will be the first to admit that Amish stories are not my go to books to read. Many times I feel like the stories are all the same. That being said, I have read some EXCELLENT Amish books. If you are looking for something a little unique in the Amish genre check these out!

This whole series is well very written.

This is one of the first Amish books I read by recommendation of a dear friend who has since passed away.

This was just a wonderful book for any time of year!

Katie Ganshert did an excellent job writing out of her comfort zone!

This isn't Christian Fiction just an FYI but it is SO good.

This book drew me right in!

This is probably my all time favorite Amish story written by a classic story teller.

This series is popular for a reason, it really is very good.

This book is non-fiction and it will humble you and stick with you long after you read it. I still think of it often. Read it.

God Bless You and Good Night Review

 

About the Book

This sweet book will make sure your little one falls to sleep feeling secure and loved.

Bedtime Bibles and storybooks are evergreen classics that sell through year after year. Seasoned brands and new names alike are seeing surging sales in this felt-need genre as parents are looking for comforting books with Bible stories, verses, and prayers to settle kids down to sleep.

In "God Bless You and Good Night," sleepy little ones are reminded of God's blessings and how much they are loved. The delightful rhyming story takes readers through several scenes of snuggly animals who are getting ready for bed. These sweet, sometimes silly rhymes and adorable art are sure to make "God Bless You and Good Night" a favorite part of the bedtime ritual for parents and children. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

The cover of this book is what caught my eye, I am all about the giraffes right now and this book is adorable. The illustrations are so fun and the overall theme covers all of the things you do at night to get kids ready for bed. I think this is a perfect bedtime book, though I wish it was a board book, as the cover won't last long in the hands of a child. Otherwise super cute book and I can't wait to share with the littles!

Five stars. 

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

The Weaver's Daughter Review

About the Book

Kate's loyalties bind her to the past. Henry's loyalties compel him to strive for a better future. In a landscape torn between tradition and vision, can two souls find the strength to overcome their preconceptions?

Loyalty has been at the heart of the Dearborne family for as long as Kate can remember, but a war is brewing in their small village, one that has the power to rip families asunder --including her own. As misguided actions are brought to light, she learns how deep her father's pride and bitterness run, and she begins to wonder if her loyalty is well-placed.

Henry Stockton, heir to the Stockton fortune, returns home from three years at war seeking refuge from his haunting memories. Determined to bury the past, he embraces his grandfather's goals to modernize his family's wool mill, regardless of the grumblings from the local weavers. When tragedy strikes shortly after his arrival, Henry must sort truth from suspicion if he is to protect his family's livelihood and legacy.

Henry has been warned about the Dearborne family. Kate, too, has been advised to stay far away from the Stocktons, but chance meetings continue to bring her to Henry's side, blurring the jagged lines between loyalty, justice, and truth. Kate ultimately finds herself with the powerful decision that will forever affect her village's future. As unlikely adversaries, Henry and Kate must come together to find a way to create peace for their families, and their village, and their souls - even if it means risking their hearts in the process. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

I really enjoyed this book! I loved the characters, even the secondary ones. The setting is great and the mystery was well written. Sarah Ladd is talented in writing mysteries in this time period. She doesn't get over the top with her ideas and the general flow of her story lines are well written. I enjoyed learning a bit about weavers and the little notes of history. I felt like the romance side in this book was slightly rushed but I still liked how it all played out in the end. 

I highly recommend Sarah's books and this one was fun to read. 

Four stars. 

"I received this book from the publisher to review. All opinions are my own."

I Can Only Imagine Book Review

 About the Book

The captivating story behind the bestselling single in the history of Christian music—and the man who wrote it

MercyMe’s crossover hit, “I Can Only Imagine,” has touched millions of people around the world. But few know about the pain, redemption, and healing that inspired it. Now Bart Millard, award-winning recording artist and lead singer of MercyMe, shares how his dad’s transformation from abusive father to man of God sparked a divine moment in music history.

Go behind the scenes of Bart’s life—and the movie based on it—to discover how God repaired a broken family, prepared Bart for ministry through music, and wrote the words on his heart that would change his life forever. I Can Only Imagine is a front-row seat to witnessing God’s presence throughout Bart’s life. Whether falling in love with his childhood sweetheart or mourning his father’s death, founding MercyMe or flailing in the midst of its success, Bart continues to place his trust in God’s plans—plans that continue to surprise and surpass what Bart could have ever imagined.  (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

I love biographies and this book was really well written. I had no idea this story was made into a movie until I got the book. Of course I have listened to MercyMe for a long time so I was curious about the story. This book held my interest simply because of how it was written. Sometimes biography type books can be dreadfully slow, but that was not the case with this one. It truly is amazing how some people's lives turn out, especially after going through so many difficulties. This book is a testament to how awesome God is and how He works in our lives, even if we don't see it at the time. 

After reading the book, I am not sure I want to see the movie. I am one of those whose usually sticks with one or the other. Bart did write that he thinks the movie accurate and the actors did a good job. I just think I will stick with the book on this one though. 

I highly recommend this book and if you are a movie watcher I hear the movie is good too! 

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

 

In Places Hidden Review

About the Book

On her way to San Francisco to find her brother, Caleb, who went missing three months ago, Camriann Coulter meets Judith and Kenzie, who both have their own mysteries to solve in the booming West Coast city. The women decide to help each other, including rooming together and working at Kenzie's cousin's chocolate factory.

Camri's search for her brother, an attorney, leads her deep into the political corruption of the city--and into the acquaintance of Patrick Murdock, a handsome Irishman who was saved from a false murder charge by Caleb. Patrick challenges all of Camri's privileged beliefs, but he knows more about what happened to her brother than anyone else. Together, they move closer to the truth behind Caleb's disappearance. But as the stakes rise and threats loom, will Patrick be able to protect Camri from the dangers he knows lie in the hidden places of the city? (Goodreads)

 My Thoughts

I have read so many of Tracie's books so I pay attention when she starts a new series. I was intrigued by this story since it is set in San Francisco. This isn't a very long book and really just a quick light read. For me, I didn't love the characters in this story. I loved the setting but other than that I wasn't drawn into their lives, or sympathetic to their situation. 

While I have enjoyed many of Tracie's previous books, her latest stories have really fallen flat for me. The stories don't have much depth and are all together predictable. I know that Tracie is a talented author, and she has a huge fan base. I just feel like she is trying to put out so many books in a year that the quality of her work has turned into light and fast reads that don't hold a ton of depth. As a long time reader I am slightly disappointed. BUT I know she can write a gem of a story so I will hold out hope that one of her future books will be something to treasure!

"I received this book from Bethany House to review. All opinions are my own."

 

The Innkeeper's Daughter Review with Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Title: The Innkeeper’s Daughter

Author: Michelle Griep

Genre: Historical Christian Fiction

Release Date: March 1, 2018

A London officer goes undercover to expose a plot against the Crown

Dover, England, 1808: Officer Alexander Moore goes undercover as a gambling gentleman to expose a high-stakes plot against the king—and he’s a master of disguise, for Johanna Langley believes him to be quite the rogue. . .until she can no longer fight against his unrelenting charm.

All Johanna wants is to keep the family inn afloat, but when the rent and the hearth payment are due at the same time, where will she find the extra funds? If she doesn’t come up with the money, there will be nowhere to go other than the workhouse—where she’ll be separated from her ailing mother and ten-year-old brother.

Alex desperately wants to help Johanna, especially when she confides in him, but his mission—finding and bringing to justice a traitor to the crown—must come first, or they could all end up dead.

Click here to purchase your copy!

About the Author

Michelle Griep has been writing since she first discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. She seeks to glorify God in all that she writes—except for that graffiti phase she went through as a teenager. She resides in the frozen tundra of Minnesota, where she teaches history and writing classes for a local high school co-op. An Anglophile at heart, she runs away to England every chance she gets, under the guise of research. Really, though, she’s eating excessive amounts of scones while rambling around a castle. Michelle is a member of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) and MCWG (Minnesota Christian Writers Guild). Keep up with her adventures at her blog “Writer off the Leash” or visit www.michellegriep.com.

Guest Post from Michelle Griep

Celebrating Oak Apple Day

Spring is just around the corner, or maybe it’s in full bloom in your neck of the woods. Regardless, by this time of year, everyone is ready to celebrate. . .and nothing new is under the sun. For centuries people have been eager to welcome budding greenery and warmth.

In my recent release, The Innkeeper’s Daughter, I incorporated a spring holiday that’s been around for over 500 years in England, one you may never heard of.

Oak Apple Day.

This ancient celebration dates back to the year 1651. At the time, Charles II escaped the Roundhead army by taking cover in an oak tree. Everyone loved ol’ Charlie and was glad he lived, so in his honor, a new national holiday was born—one that in some parts of England is still celebrated today.

Another name for this annual event is Royal Oak Day and the festivities occur every May 29th. Celebration traditions vary from parades to the ringing of bells, but one thing that is standard is that it’s a day to pin an oak leaf on your lapel. If you fail to wear one, you could end up getting pinched.

The hero in my latest release is kind enough to remind the heroine that she forgot to pin on her leaf, thus saving her from untoward pinches. Interested in hearing more about this gallant fellow and the forgetful miss? Here’s a blurb about The Innkeeper’s Daughter…

Tension is high with the threat of a Napoleonic attack in Regency England, but risk from abroad means nothing when there’s danger at home.

Officer Alexander Moore goes undercover as a gambling gentleman to expose a high-stakes plot against the crown—and he’s a master of disguise, for Johanna Langley believes him to be quite the rogue . . . until she can no longer fight against his unrelenting charm.

All Johanna wants is to keep the family inn afloat, but when the rent and the hearth payment are due at the same time, where will she find the extra funds? If she doesn’t come up with the money, there will be nowhere to go other than the workhouse—where she’ll be separated from her ailing mother and ten-year-old brother.

Alex desperately wants to help Johanna, especially when she confides in him, but his mission—finding and bringing to justice a traitor to the crown—must come first, or they could all end up dead.

It’s a race against time for them both.

Blog Stops

Just the Write Escape, March 15

Fiction Aficionado, March 15

All-of-a-kind Mom, March 15

The Morning Chapter, March 15

Reflections From My Bookshelves, March 16

Reading Is My SuperPower, March 16

Mommynificent, March 16

Blogging With Carol, March 16

Among the Reads, March 17

Connie’s History Classroom, March 17

Mary Hake, March 17

Blossoms and Blessings, March 17

Karen Sue Hadley, March 18

The Power of Words, March 18

Christian Chick’s Thoughts, March 18

D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, March 18

Kathleen Denly, March 19

Faithfully Bookish, March 19

Captive Dreams Window, March 19

Red Headed Book Lady, March 19

The Fizzy Pop Collection, March 20

Remembrancy, March 20

Inklings and notions, March 20

Book by Book, March 20

Moments Dipped in Ink, March 21

Black ‘n’ Gold Girl’s Book Spot, March 21

Singing Librarian Books, March 21

To Everything a Season, March 21

Bookworm Mama, March 22

Two Points of Interest, March 22

Vicky Sluiter, March 22

Carpe Diem, March 22

Pause for Tales, March 23

Have A Wonderful Day, March 23

A Baker’s Perspective, March 23

margaret kazmierczak, March 23 (Interview)

proud to be an autism mom, March 24

Bibliophile Reviews, March 24

A Greater Yes, March 24

Texas Book-aholic, March 25

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 25

Janices book reviews, March 25

A Reader’s Brain, March 26

Jeanette’s Thoughts, March 26

Simple Harvest Reads, March 26 (Mindy Houng Guest Post)

Kaylee’s Kind Of Writes, March 27

My Writer’s Life, March 27

Pursuing Stacie, March 27

Bigreadersite, March 27

Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 28

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, March 28

Pink Granny’s Journey, March 28

The PhD Mamma, March 28

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Michelle is giving away a grand prize of a signed copy of The Innkeeper’s Daughter and a $25 gift card from Barnes & Noble!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/cb72




My Review

The setting for this book is great and the overall story idea is good. I had a hard time connecting with the characters and completely getting into the book. I have read previous books by this author and have enjoyed her writing. This book just wasn't for me.

Three stars.

I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

The Healing Power of Essential Oils Book Review

 

 About the Book

Eric Zielinski, D.C., host of the Essential Oils Revolution summits, offers a soup-to-nuts guide to mastering essential oils for vibrant health and well-being, featuring dozens of recipes and formulations for restful sleep, reduced inflammation, balanced hormones, and more.

Achieving true health is not an easy task. For many people, it might be easier to pop a pill or push aside lingering discomfort in favor of finishing everything on your to-do list. In The Healing Power of Essential Oils, Eric Zielinski, D.C. shows readers how to make their health a priority with the life-changing benefits of essential oils. Essential oils are the natural solution to everything from anxiety and depression to deep-seated inflammation. For beginners, Dr. Z teaches everything you need to know to get started, including the top seven oils you should stock from Day 1 and the commonly used techniques and tools. He illustrates daily practices you can follow to enjoy the properties of essential oils, including a five-minute devotional using frankincense and neroli to set you up for a productive and stress-free day, and a simple bedtime routine harnessing the soporific effects of lavender.

Backed by extensive research, Dr. Z also supplies essential oil blends that promote hormone balance, reduced inflammation, improved digestion, increased immunity, and so much more. You'll be armed with over 150 recipes for every health need, and a special section on women's health includes dozens of formulations for PMS, fertility, pregnancy, candida, and menopause. Even those well-versed in essential oils will benefit from this thorough approach. With your newfound knowledge, you can begin tailoring an essential oils practice to your unique pain points and lifestyle right away - and start experiencing amazing results. (Goodreads)

 My Thoughts

I have been using essential oils for a few years now. I have mainly been using the most common ones(lemon, peppermint, lavender, eucalyptus, grapefruit, etc.) This past year as my grandma has gotten into the oils she has actually taught me more about them because she studies everything about them all the time. So that being said, I really enjoyed this book. I was actually really surprised at how much info was in this book. Not only is it perfect for newbies but also for those that need something to look back at and reference. The best part of this book is the multitude of recipes and remedies that fill up a good portion of this book. From everything you can imagine, there is a recipe to make it with essential oils. Need hand soap? Shampoo? Deodorizer? Roll on blends?  The author does not promote a certain brand of essential oils BUT he does state what to look for in high quality oils and to not be fooled by the cheap stuff. This book gives a wonderful overview on most questions with essential oils and especially if you are a newbie to oils, this is a great book. 

Five Stars. 

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

 Side Note:

Blogging For Books is closing and this last month was the last time they were letting people review books. I am sad about this, they were the first company I started to review for and who got me into blogging in the first place. While there are so many other publishers and companies out there still doing these things, it seems that change is on the horizon when it comes to blogging in general. I am thankful for all of the books I received from Blogging for Books (167 total!) and for the inspiration to start reviewing books in the first place.