A Tender Hope

A Tender Hope

Cimaroon Creek Trilogy #3

Amanda Cabot

Thea lost her unborn baby and husband almost all at once. It's time for a change. She can't stay and be surrounded by all of the memories. So she takes a job as a midwife in Cimarron Creek. She has barely arrived when a Texas Ranger shows up on her doorstep with a baby. The child's mother has been murdered and Ranger Jackson is hoping that Thea can care for the baby until he can find the killer. Thea isn't sure she can take on a baby so soon after the loss of her own. 

I read the first book in this series and really enjoyed it. Somehow I missed reading the second one, but was able to read this one without feeling like I was missing out. But since I enjoyed the third book, I'll be grabbing the 2nd one soon.

The author did a great job of creating a story full of romances, suspense, humor, and faith. I enjoyed how she created authentic and enjoyable characters. Even the characters that were abrasive were done well. Elements of faith are woven throughout the story. I enjoyed this new series and look forward to what the author has coming next.

I received a copy of this book from Revell Reads. All thoughts expressed are my own.

Courting Mr. Emerson

Courting Mr. Emerson

Melody Carlson

Willow is a free-spirited, adventurous artist who is raising her grandson. Her husband passed away several years ago and Willow moved back to her hometown to start an art gallery. She meets her grandson's teacher Mr. Emerson when she goes to the school to talk to him. He is the exact opposite of her. He wears the same clothes, follows the same routines, and needs structure to survive. When the two get together they mix like oil and water. Add into the equation a church going Willow and an aloof, perhaps agnostic Mr. Emerson and their future together doesn't look promising. 

I always enjoy a good romance story. This is not really a romance, at least not in the expected way. Sure it has romance between several of the characters. But this book has so much more. The message of salvation is woven between every line. The author does a fantastic job of creating authentic, realistic characters that pull at your heartstrings. There are also elements of humor, family, and drama woven into the plot. I enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it for a quick, enjoyable read. But expect to also be pulled out of your comfort zone and be left thinking long after you finish the book. 

I received a copy of this book from Revell Reads. all thoughts expressed are my own.

Almost Home

Almost Home

Valerie Fraser Luesse

Life is changing because of the war. Farms are collapsing, men are leaving home, and the ones left behind are flocking to the munitions plants to keep their families afloat. Several families arrive at Dolly's family home turned bed and breakfast. Each person is fighting their own personal battle. But when disaster strikes the family home, the families rush to solve a previous generations mystery and rally around to save Dolly.

I'm not usually into these types of books. So I went into it with a bit of trepidation, expecting cheesy plots lines and predictability. And while there might have been a bit of that; this book was so much more. The author was able to draw out the different characters and their emotions so that the reader becomes completely engaged. It was like two separate stories were happening at the same time - the current one with the different boarders and the mystery from decades ago that had never been solved. There is a touch of miracles, lots of heart, and plenty of laughs. Even if this doesn't seem your style, I recommend giving it a try. It made me think long after I finished the book. 

I received a copy of this book from Revell Reads. All thoughts expressed are my own.

Sweet On You

Sweet On You

A Bradford Sister's Romance #3

Becky Wade

Britt and Zander are best friends. They've been together since high school and nothing has driven them apart. Zander left over a year ago to travel the world and Britt misses him so much. When a death in the family brings Zander back stateside, Britt is saddened. But she's also so excited to have her best friend back home again. But the reason Zander left is still between them and Britt will need to wake up and take stock of her emotions before she ruins the best thing that ever happened to her.

This was one of those books that was eagerly anticipated and read through in just a day. I wasn't disappointed. But I was surprised. I expected the sweet romance, little bits of drama and intrigue, the importance of focusing on family, and the zany and fun characters. What I wasn't expecting was how much I would fall in love with Zander or how amazing the romance between the two main characters would be. I can honestly say that this was one of the hottest romance I've ever read. It's clean - so don't get excited. I'd let my daughter read it. But it was so full of emotion and feeling that I felt like I was experiencing it myself. It was real and authentic in a way that most romances tend to miss. The whole package was amazing. And I had to stop and think for a bit before I wrote the review. There were several points that the author made that really gave me food for thought. I think this would be perfect as a gift or book club selection. While it can definitely be read alone, I would recommend picking up the first two books in the series, as well as the prequel. It will make the story richer.

I received a copy of this book. All thoughts expressed are my own thoughts and opinions.

Clarissa's Conflict

My Heart Belongs in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Clarissa's Conflict

Murray Pura

Clarissa lives the life of a respectable daughter in historical Gettysburg. But at night she helps lead people through a section of the underground railroad. During her travels she meets a man named Liberty who wears a hood to conceal his identity. During the day she courts the attention of a scholar named Kyle that her parents approve of for their only child. 

I was so excited to get this book to review. I love reading historical fiction, especially stories about the underground railroad. I've really enjoyed the other books in this series. The story was well written, flowed well, and really highlighted some of the intense moments during that time period. The heroine though was enough to make me want to quit reading. She was spoiled, way too forward for the time period, and hateful. The seemingly two sides of her personality didn't mesh well at all. She professed to be a Christian, but repeatedly flew off into a temper, was extremely judgmental and was always jumping to erroneous conclusions, she was loose with her affections, repeatedly disobeyed her parents, and wasn't very kind. I read a lot of historical fiction and just didn't feel like she was a true representation of a female for that time period. I have no idea why a guy would even be interested. Because of this, I found the main male character to be weak and spineless, even when you find out his "secret" that wasn't so secret. I would have been ok if she had ever come to realize her flaws and actively worked to correct them.  But she blamed it all on her red hair and constantly made excuses for her behavior. Even when she did apologize, she didn't seem sincere. As a parent, I found her in serious need of discipline.

In conclusion, good story base, but not no endearing or redeeming main characters.

I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing. All thoughts expressed are my own.

The Christmas Heirloom

The Christmas Heirloom

Kristi Hunter, Karen Witemeyer, Sarah Loudin Thomas, Becky Wade

The story begins with a broach that will be passed down to the next female in the family. The broach is considered to be of some value, but will can be sold due to the sentimental value that each woman places on it. As each woman navigates love, marriage, parenting, and trials that life brings, she holds on to the stories and lessons that are passed down from each previous generation.

I love novellas. And I love collections that tie together while written by different authors. So when I saw the author lineup (some of my favorite authors), I knew I had to read this book. It definitely didn't disappoint. Each author took the story of a broach and told how it was passed down to a female in the next generation. The authors told the part of the story that fit the time period they most often write about. Each story carries on from the last one, but is written in the authors own style. These are some big names in Christian fiction and to have them all collaborate on a beautiful Christmas story was amazing. If you haven't read some of these authors, this book will give you a glimpse into the time period they typically write in and their writing style. Loved this book and will be snagging a paper copy so I can reread it in the future.

I received a copy of this book. All thoughts expressed are my own.

Romancing the Bride

Romancing the Bride

Melissa Jagears

Annie needs to keep the ranch in the family. But after her husband passed away, she's been struggling to manage. Her son and daughter are helping, but they are just kids. She needs to keep the ranch to pass on to her children, but she's also tied to the ranch because of the little graveyard that holds her babies and late husband. She can't lose that connection with them. So she proposes a crazy idea to the local sheriff, Jacob. Marry her for her land. Jacob is torn. He plans to buy a farm or ranch, but all of the good ones are gone. But marry a woman he doesn't know just for her land?

This isn't just a sweet romance that's over in a couple of hours. It has depth, suspense, drama, and a love story that goes beyond just the two main characters. The author did a great job of setting up the plot so the reader was engaged and the characters had depth. I think my favorite character was actually one of the secondary characters, so I look forward to hopefully seeing her in another book. If you enjoy historical fiction that has sustenance and makes you think, then you'll love this book. 

Code of Valor

Code of Valor

Blue Justice #3

Lynette Eason

Brady, a detective, is in serious need of a vacation. So he heads to a friend's cabin to spend some relaxing time at the lake. But when he hears a woman scream and sees an accident occur, he can't help, but rush to her rescue. What follows is definitely not relaxing or vacation like. But Brady St. John can't turn away from a person in need. 

The book started off with a huge bang and didn't let up the entire time. The characters were relatable, engaging, and had depth. The chemistry between the two main characters was great and fit well with the situation. I appreciated how the author wove subtle spiritual thoughts through the book without it becoming too strong or disturbing the flow of the plot. Somehow I missed getting my hands on the first two books of this series and so was a little worried that I would be lost coming into the middle. But that wasn't the case at all. While it was clear that there was a backstory to some of the secondary characters, it only added interest and depth, instead of losing me or distracting me. I've enjoyed everything I've read by this author and I think her books get better the more she writes. If you enjoy suspense, drama, and a little bit of clean romance then make sure you grab this book. But make sure you get the others in the series as well. 

I received a copy of this book from Revell Reads. All thoughts expressed are my own.

I'm back. . .Sorta!

Hello Everyone!

Not sure if I still even have blog followers left. I've been gone for almost a year. This last year I became sick and was diagnosed with a chronic illness. I had to eliminate quite a few things from my life while I struggled with being sick and being a wife and mom. Unfortunately reading was at a minimum. I read less than half the usual amount of books per year. It saddened me and I really missed blogging, books, and the publishing world.

But while the illness is chronic and I definitely won't be able to return to the volume that I previously read or blogged about, I am back to reading and blogging - hopefully. I will be trying to play catch up with some books I was able to read this last year, as well as add more current books.

So hello again!!

Book decisions

What to do with those books you will never read again

Donate them – When most people think about getting rid of any unwanted items that they no longer need, the first place they think of is St Vincent de Paul or the Salvation Army. And while both of these places are great, and do some excellent work for the community, there are plenty of other places that accept second-hand goods and the donations go to some very good causes. Organisations such as the Aboriginal Literacy Foundation, which helps indigenous children gain access to education through literacy, and Books for Lesotho, which takes the donated books over to students in Southern Africa are great examples of other places that are always accepting donations. These organisations, and many others like them are great causes to get behind, and you’ll feel like you’re really making a difference by giving them your unwanted books. Local libraries are also another great place to donate to, and they are often on the lookout for new and different books to add to their collections.

Give to a Community Street Library – In most big cities and suburban areas, you may stumble across little wooden houses full of books out the front a local school or community centre. These little houses are known as community or street libraries, and they allow the community to engage with each other through the donating and swapping of books. Most of them have a clear glass window at front and a door that opens and closes to allow people to come and go with ease, as well as being able to protect the books from the weather and any other external forces. As mentioned, you can leave your own books in the library, or you can take a book with you. This is a great way to get rid of your old books that you no longer want and gives others who may not be able to afford new books the opportunity to take them for free. The Street Library website shows you the locations of some of the community libraries in your local area, so you know where to go to donate.   

Recycle them – Because books are made from paper, it is easy for them to be broken down and made into new items of a similar fashion and even be printed on again. Most old books are made from high-quality paper, and not made of mixed materials like that of a magazine or a catalogue. According to Planet Ark, a non-for-profit environmental foundation in Australia, paper can be recycled up to 8 times, and it can be repurposed into things like packaging, toilet rolls, and egg cartons, all of which can still be broken down fairly easy over time, and even reused again another time. There are plenty of recycling centres throughout most major cities in Australia that accept donations like books for recycling which are supported by Planet Ark. This is another great way of repurposing old and unwanted books to be used in a more positive an environmentally conscious way. They also sell the books that are in better condition at some of their repurposing centres, with the profits going to local charities and hospitals.

Sell them – If you’re a little bit strapped for cash, another thing you can do with your old books is to sell them. Bountye is a website that helps you find and sell second-hand and vintage goods online from multiple third-party websites. We live in an age where we are concerned with the mass-production of objects, we need to find solutions to try and reduce our carbon footprint significantly in order to continue to live happy and healthy lives. We’re always being told to reduce, reuse and recycle, and Bountye works hand in hand with this idea by repurposing old and unwanted items. At Bountye they “think buying second-hand stuff should be as easy as buying something new” and this is a great idea because if you don’t want something anymore, someone else may. They also have an app available on the App Store and Google Play, so you can do your buying and selling on the go.

Repurpose them - Although it goes against the grain for most people to defile an old and beloved book, there are many ways in which you can recycle your old and unwanted books and turn them into something completely different. One ever-popular project that uses an old book is the ‘book-safe’, in which you glue the pages of your book together and then hollow out the middle of it to use as a safe, which can store some of your valuables and hide them from unsuspecting guests in plain sight. Using an old hardcover book, you can also make some interesting bookmarks. All you have to do is cut off the spine of an old hardcover book and pierce a hole in one of the ends for a ribbon or some string, and you have a lovely custom-made bookmark. Also, this activity doesn’t destroy your book too much, so you won’t feel as guilty about doing this project compared to some of the others out there that use books. In saying that, both projects are a great way to repurpose the books that you once loved and allow them to continue to be used in a positive way in your home.  

The Spiritual Gifts Handbook

The Spiritual Gifts Handbook

Using Your Gifts to Build the Kingdom

Randy Clark and Mary Healy

Two authors teamed up to bring an interesting approach tothe gifts of the spirit. Mr. Clark is an international healing minister and Ms. Healy is a Catholic Bible scholar. Each author's voice is heard throughout the book with their vision for what using your spiritual gift looks like.

The book was not what I had been hoping for. It definitely leaned in the speaking in tongues, Pentecostal direction. I was hoping for a look at how I could apply the spiritual gifts that I'd been given to my life. But the book felt more like a theology text book that a layman's handbook. I agree that our churches need more of an outpouring of the Holy Spirit and that the spiritual gifts are an absolute necessity in today's work of reaching souls. However, I'm not sure that I agree with a lot of what the authors chose to focus on. It had an almost spiritualistic slant that I found a bit different.

Some of the stories were interesting, but overall, I found the book too dry and slightly boring with a touch of condescending. This is definitely not what the other reviewers are saying, so it was clearly just my opinion. So if you want to dig deeper into the Bible and want another person's take on spiritual gits, this might interest you.

I received a copy of this book from Chosen. All thoughts expressed are my own.

North

North

How to Live Scandinavian

Bronte Aurell

Numerous studies point to the general happiness of the Scandinavian people. So what exactly makes these northern European people so unique and content? The author has taken from her personal experiences and from research and has written an entertaining book that covers a lot of aspects, such as style, food, family, culture, and holidays. Full of colorful photographs and tons of information make this a fun and entertaining way to learn more about Scandinavia and it's people.

I absolutely loved reading this book. It was tastefully done with a tongue in cheek type of humor. I learned a lot and the writing made me want to someday travel to this part of the world. This would make an excellent addition to anyone planning to travel. Due to the cover it would also make an excellent coffee table book.

I received a copy of this book from Goodreads. All thoughts expressed are my own.

I Will Love You Forever

I Will Love You Forever

with Marianne Hering

Cori Salchert

Cori has suffered from extreme medical issues most of her life. At some points they kept her confined to bed. Her husband and eight children were there for her and helped keep the house afloat while she was trying to find answers. When Cori loses her job at the hospital as a counselor for parents losing their children to death, she's devastated. But what she didn't know was that it would open the door for her to care for an infant on hospice. Caring for this tiny baby knowing that she would soon be gone, changed their entire lives.

This book was not a thing like I was expecting. It was more of a memoir about the author, than about hospice babies. There is really only one child that was considered a hospice baby. It dealt with the author's health issues, those of one of her children, and the adoption of a special needs child. It also talked about her childhood and the death of her sister. So very little was actually about the one hospice baby she took in. But despite the misleading title and my general dislike of memoirs, I actually enjoyed the book and my heart was warmed reading about the hospice infant and how her own children reacted. If you enjoy memoirs or true stories, you'll really enjoy this inspirational book.

I received a copy of this book. All thoughts expressed are my own.

Hello Mornings

Hello Mornings

How to Build a Grace-Filled, Life-Giving Morning Routine

Kat Lee

Are mornings difficult? Does it seem that the morning starts of okay and then your schedule goes awry? Or is getting into a routine in the first place seem daunting? The author, now well known for her podcasts and founder of HelloMornings.org, took the information she's been sharing and put it together in a book for those looking to invigorate and change their mornings. The book has a Christian theme and gives the simple steps that the author found to work so well for her.

I am definitely one in need of help in the mornings. The book started out strong and was super inspiring. I talked about it with several of my friends while reading. The steps were easy to understand and implement. The author put personal experiences with scientific studies to prove her point. But despite the informative style of writing, it was interesting and I enjoyed reading it. The only negative was the last few chapters. I felt that they were necessary, but for some reason they were very dry and hard to get through. Turned this book into a 4.5, instead of a 5. But overall, I would still recommend it to my friends and family.

I received a copy of this book from BookLook Blogger. All thoughts expressed are my own.

How to Window Box

How to Window Box

Chantal Aida Gordon and Ryan Benoit

Window boxes are common in areas where space is limited and can be used to grow plants indoors or out. This book delves into the process of setting up a good soil environment for growing all types of plants in a grow box setting. There are approximately sixteen sections that deal with different types of plants, soil conditions, fertilizers, and show various styles and types of grow boxes. The unusual rectangle shape of the book, the glossy pages with beautiful photography, and in depth details will have plant lovers falling in love with window boxes. 

I loved reading through the book and think it would make an excellent gift or addition to a garden lovers library. The book has a high quality feel and taught me several things that I wasn't aware of in regards to window boxes. The photography alone sells the book. I really liked the step-by-step instructions on how to set up the box. 

I received a copy of this book from Blogging for Books. All thoughts expressed are my own.

Follow Your Bliss

Follow Your Bliss Guided Journal

This particular journal features the art of Hello Angel. The theme is bliss. The pages are wide rule lined style and the paper is thick and acid-free. Almost every other page has a bright picture with rich, deep colors. There are flowers, animals and scenes, and mandala shapes. Each page has a hint of color corresponding to the pictures around it. The hard back cover makes it excellent for holding while journaling or drawing.

I fell in love with the beautiful pictures and tinted pages. Each lined page has plenty of room to journal or write down lists and thoughts. The thick pages didn't bleed through when I used a heavy marker or gel pen. This would make an excellent gift, but I'm going to have a hard time parting with it. These books can be found at all of the retail sites I checked. Overall, I would say this is an excellent journal and can't wait to use it more.

I received a copy of this book from Fox Chapel Publishing. All thoughts expressed are my own.

Falling For You

Falling For You

A Bradford Sisters Romance #2

Becky Wade

Willow is taking a short break from her modeling career to run her parent's bed and breakfast until the new manager can start work. She's burned out and she's hoping that the sabbatical will give her a fresh start. She doesn't expect to run into a former boy-friend, Corbin who not only broke her heart, but reminds her of all of her past mistakes. She also doesn't expect to be forced to work with him while trying to solve a mystery from decades ago. 

I loved every aspect of this book. The characters were warm and inviting. The connection that the sisters have is special and heartwarming. The author did an excellent job of portraying the characters as flawed, but likable and inspiring. Their relationship with God was prominent and yet didn't come across as preachy and pushy. Several of the secondary characters were favorites as well. And the author did a great job of setting the scene for the next sister's story. This author never fails to write a story that has heart, forgiveness, family, and sweet romance. This story also has a side story with some suspense and drama that I didn't see coming, but really enjoy. Overall, another amazing book and I can't wait to read her next one.

I received a copy of this book. All thoughts expressed are my own.

Journal

Hello Angel Lined Journal

This particular journal features the art of Hello Angel. The theme is wintry cold. The pages are wide rule lined style and the paper is thick and acid-free. Almost every other page has a bright picture with rich, deep colors. There are flowers, winter animals and scenes, and mandala shapes. Each page has a hint of color corresponding to the pictures around it. The hard back cover makes it excellent for holding while journaling or drawing.

I fell in love with the beautiful pictures and tinted pages. Each lined page has plenty of room to journal or write down lists and thoughts. The thick pages didn't bleed through when I used a heavy marker or gel pen. The drawings also inspired me to do a little doodling of my own. This would make an excellent gift, but I'm going to have a hard time parting with it. These books can be found at all of the retail sites I checked. Overall, I would say this is an excellent journal and can't wait to use it more.

I received a copy of this book from Fox Chapel Publishing. All thoughts expressed are my own.

Fox Chapel Publishing

Big Foot Visits the Big Cities of the World

Big Foot Visits the Big Cities of the World

A Seek and Find Activity Book

D. L. Miller

Big Foot is a shy and elusive creature that hides very well. So when he goes on vacation, it's very difficult to find him sometimes. Join Big Foot as he travels around the world. The book begins with some information about Big Foot - who he is, where he comes from, and some of his other names. The following pages are partially color and partially black and white drawings with various items, including Big Foot, for the viewer to locate. Before each puzzle is two pages of information about the city in the hide and seek. At the back of the book is the answer key, should the viewer become stumped.

My kids loved this book. And I really loved it too. There are 10 hide and seek puzzles and pages and pages of fun facts and information about the cities that Big Foot visits on his travels. The pages are colorful and the large size of the hardcover book make it easy for smaller children to hold and pour over. We all had fun talking about the cities that Big Foot was at and what it might be like to visit ourselves. This book would be excellent for a school library or used as an additional resource for curriculums. 

I received a copy of this book from Fox Chapel Publishing. All thoughts expressed are my own.

A Chance At Forever

A Chance At Forever

Teaville Moral Society #3

Melissa Jagears

Mercy grew up in Teaville and suffered a lot of bullying because of her missing hand. But the worst bully of all was a boy named George. Mercy is now an adult and serving on the local school board when a teacher, named Aaron, applies for a position. She recognizes him as her childhood bully. Aaron claims to have changed, but Mercy is going to have to see evidence to believe him. When Aaron takes a summer job with her employer she's given the opportunity to observe him up close and isn't conflicted on what she sees.

This was my favorite by this author. I've enjoyed all of her books, but for some reason this one really spoke to me. The author did a great job of creating the tension and drama that the characters needed to develop. The two main characters, while flawed, were relate-able and engaging. And I fell in love with a couple of the orphans that were part of the story. There were a couple of sensitive topics that the author handled really well and the beauty of forgiveness and the ability to change by God's grace was so sweet and inspiring. The relationship between the several of characters was wholesome and romantic. Really enjoyed this story and can't wait to read the author's next book.

I received a copy of this book. All thoughts expressed are my own.