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.

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. 

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.

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.

No One Ever Asked

No One Ever Asked

Katie Ganshert

Follow three women as they navigate the changes that are being forced upon them. A local school has lost it's accreditation and so some of the low-income children are being sent to the affluent school closest to them. Three women are faced with challenges to their family, their marriages, and their jobs as they try to understand medical, racial, and parenting issues. What these women learn will change their lives.

Wow! Ms. Ganshert has done it again. She takes on quite a few major hot points in this book and writes with heart, emotion, and inspiration. Her insight into the issues that our country is facing is insightful and thought provoking. It is labeled as a novel, but was inspired by actual events. I could feel the authenticity. The characters were well defined. I was pleasantly surprised because there were quite a few characters, but I wasn't ever lost or wondering which person I was reading about. Ms. Ganshert has a gift for writing emotions that jump out and engulf the reader. This book was no exception. This book pulled me in and wouldn't let go, even after I'd finished reading the last page. I couldn't stop thinking about it. I think everyone should read this, it's that good and that thought provoking. Overall, this book gets 5+ stars and I'd recommend it to everyone.

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

Holiday Secrets

Holiday Secrets

McKade Law #1

Susan Sleeman

Gavin, an FBI agent, is in town to see his ex-girlfriend, Lexie, about a case he's working on. Unfortunately for both of them it involves her father. When things go south, Gavin is forced to work with his bull headed father, a sheriff, if either of them have a hope of solving who is out to kill Lexie.

This author writes a dramatic and suspenseful novel. The plot starts out with shooting, intrigue, and drama. Explosions, murder, and horses all mix together to create a cowboy style romance that is full of tense moments and sweet encounters. This is the first book in a new series by the author and she's definitely set the stage well. I loved the chemestry between the two main characters. I also liked how she portrayed a flawed, but loving family. The message of faith is subtly woven throughout the story, creating a seamless message of hope and forgiveness during difficult times.The secondary characters all had depth and their own personalities, so it's easy to see how this can become a series with everyone playing a part. I can't wait to see who the next main character is going to be.

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

You're Gonna Love Me

You're Gonna Love Me

Robin Lee Hatcher

Samantha needs everything to be perfect and safe. She knows her insecurities stem from the skiing accident that killed her father, but she can't seem to let go of her fears. She even breaks up with a boyfriend because he's too much of a daredevil. When he fails to respond to her apology, she writes him off and moves on. Two years later she temporarily moves to Thunder Creek, Idaho to care for her grandmother. She can't believe it when she meets Nick, the old boyfriend. And the story of why he never responded is almost unbelievable. Can Samantha let go of her perfectly crafted life and fears to experience the joy God wants for her?

I really enjoy this author so was excited to grab this newest book. Isn't the cover darling?! This is part of a series, but works well as a stand alone. I haven't been able to read the first book, and didn't feel lost. However, I definitely plan on going back and reading it. I loved the messages of love, family, forgiveness, and trust that the author wove into the story. The romance between the couples was sweet and fit well with the plot. The author wove faith and romance together well and I loved the sweet ending. Looking forward to reading more of her books.

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

Mail-Order Christmas Baby

Mail-Order Christmas Baby

Montana Courtships #1

Sherri Shackleford

Sterling, a rancher, is at the train depot to pick up some sheep that he ordered. But there is another package waiting for him. It's addressed to him and a single young lady in town. But who in the world would deliver a baby by train? Especially considering the baby doesn't belong to him or Miss Heather. And too bad that a crowd of people see the note attached to the darling little baby and assume it's Miss Heather's since they share the same beautiful red hair.

This book was so fun to read. It was set historically in a small won in the west and followed all of the things that great stories do - there was marriage, adorable children, a "bad" guy out to ruin them, faith, and family. The author really brought out the strengths in the two main characters while showing that they were flawed and in need of a savior. The story was tied up nicely at the end, and yet left an opening for the next book in the series. I look forward to reading it and many more books by this author.

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

All This Time

All This Time

Walker Family #4

Melissa Tagg

 Bear is doing what he thinks is his calling, working where God wants him to work. But when his past comes into the present and begins creating problems on the mission field, he's sent home to deal with the problems that have haunted him for years. Now he's back in Maple Valley with two children in tow and plenty of friends who want to help. One of those friends, Raegan, has given up on being more than friends. She'll settle for helping Bear with his current troubles. But if there was a glimmer of hope in the romance department, she isn't opposed to it.

What can I say? Melissa Tagg knows how to write a good story. I've loved all of her books, but she just keeps getting better and better. Bear is such a broken, but lovable character. These characters played a part in the previous three books and it was wonderful for them to finally have their own story. While this is the fourth book and I highly recommend reading the first books, I think this book could stand on its own. It was sad to know that this was the ending of the series. The author really captured the essence of small town living and the meaning of family. The reader becomes a part of the story and family members become theirs. This is a Christian fiction with emphasis on faith and salvation. The romance is clean, the characters are authentic, and the plot is well written. I would highly recommend this book or any other book by this author.

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

If You Were Me

If You Were Me and Lived in Cuba

Carole P. Roman

Two young Cuban children take the young reader on a tour of their beautiful country. Children will learn about games, food, and family. Bright, colorful illustrations help tell the story and bring life to the page. Each book in the series follows the same pattern and helps children learn more about the country while enjoying the information in story form. At the back of the book is a glossary for any words that might be unfamiliar.

The author has done a great job of presenting the facts in a fun and enjoyable format. My children love these books and look forward to reading each one as they come out. The book would make the perfect edition to a school library or as an addition to a home school curriculum. I would definitely recommend this book or any other in the series.
 

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

To Wager Her Heart

To Wager Her Heart

Tamera Alexander

Alexandra has been in mourning and almost driftless since she lost her fiance in a train wreck. She's been unable to make sense of his death and is now afraid to ride on a train after witnessing the collision. 

Sylas has left Colorado and come to Nashville to bid on a railroad project. He's not exactly comfortable in the genteel southern society and asks Alexandra to coach him on the southern customs, especially business deals. 

This was a fascinating story. The author drew so much from history and it actually felt like I'd stepped back in time to experience the same things with the characters. The story came alive with her visual descriptions. The characters were authentic and had such depth; they were relatable and likeable. I loved the story of faith and love that was woven so intricately throughout the book. While flawed, the characters had real relationships with Jesus and this shone through. Overall, I would definitely recommend this book if you enjoy history, clean romance, inspiration stories, or just a well written story.

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

Jaguar

Jaguar

Painter Place Saga #3

Pamela Poole

Caroline is abruptly kidnapped in a case of mistaken identity. Her husband Chad is helpless to rescue her and both of them must put all their trust in a man who goes by the name of Jaguar. He also happens to be an old boyfriend of Caroline. Even if Caroline returns home with her life, she'll never be the same woman she was before her abduction. The author describes her books as having a inspiring Southern ambiance, due to the faith elements and southern location and feel to her books.

This was a very fast paced and thrilling story. The author had a lot of details and parts going on, but was clear enough with the plot and characters that I never felt lost. The characters were well defined and the plot flowed smoothly. This is the third book in a series, but I was able to read this book without having read the previous two. I would recommend picking them up first if you are able, as it will provide more of a backstory to some of the secondary characters that I felt was missing in this book. Overall, this was a suspenseful, heartwarming, and family filled story that I enjoyed.

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

The Writing Desk

The Writing Desk

Rachel Hauck

Tenley wrote an amazing best seller. Her father and grandfather were also best selling authors. So with the deadline for her next book looming, Tenley must make up her mind, go to Florida to help her estranged mother or go to Paris with her boyfriend. She needs inspiration to remove her roadblock. What she finds is nothing like she expected. An old desk with a stuck drawer, a local carpenter who wants the desk, and renewed relationships help change Tenley in ways she never imagined.

I loved this book. The cover is beautiful and the story captivating. The writer was able to convey the feelings of the main characters and write descriptive scenery that made me feel as if I was living the story with Tenley. The emotions were authentic and sometimes raw, but added depth to the plot. The characters were flawed, but the reader comes away from the book with a sense of understanding, conviction, and thoughtfulness. I felt some elements of faith woven throughout the book, but they were subtle. The author did a great job of weaving two stories, set in different times together. It flowed well and felt seamless. I think anyone who enjoys thought provoking, real stories will enjoy the story of this young author as she deals with family, writer's block, and conviction. Overall, a book that captivated me and I couldn't put down. Can't wait for her next book.

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

If You Were Me

If You Were Me and Lived in the Ancient Mali Empire

Carole P. Roman

This book is part of a series designed to introduce children to how other people live in different countries and during different time periods. Using a mixture of illustrations and photography, the author talks about children who lived the time of Ancient Mali Empire and what life might have been like if you were a little boy or girl who lived during that time. She talks about location, family, food, and fun. The difficult or unfamiliar words have a pronunciation beside them and are all included in a pronunciation guide at the back of the book.
 

My children really enjoy this series and look forward to each one. While the style of the book is laid out like a story, this is non-fiction and more informative. Children will learn quite a bit about the the history from the view point of other children around the world while having fun reading. I would recommend this book for family fun or for schools as an addition to curriculum.

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

If You Were Me

If You Were Me and Lived on Mars

Corole P. Roman

This book is part of a series designed to introduce children to how other people live in different countries, during different time periods, and in different places. Using a mixture of illustrations and photography, the author talks about children who might someday, in the future, live on Mars. She talks about the location, family, food, and fun. The difficult or unfamiliar words have a pronunciation beside them and are all included in a pronunciation guide at the back of the book.
 

My children really enjoy this series and look forward to each one. While the style of the book is laid out like a story, this is non-fiction and more informative. Children will learn quite a bit about the the history from the view point of other children around the world while having fun reading. I would recommend this book for family fun or for schools as an addition to curriculum.

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

A Love So True

A Love So True

Teaville Moral Society #2

Melissa Jagears

Evelyn loves working at the orphanage and is grateful to her parents form making it happen. But she feels a huge pull towards the women who work in the red light district and have no way out. She hopes to provide a home and occupational training so they have a way out of that life. She has a donor agree to help her, but she must get the support of two other business men before she can have his help. When she bursts into the office of David Kingsman she hopes that he will help her by becoming a supporter. But David is only there to sell the business and doesn't see a reason to go against his father's wishes just to leave the project in a month or so. 

This was a fun book. The characters from the previous book were brought back, but the book was written in such a way that I think it would work as a stand-alone. The author uses the plot and characters to bring out some moral issues that sadly, still trouble us today. She touches on several things, but the one that stood out the most to me was the treatment of others and how we aren't better or worse that anyone else in God's eyes. While there is a lot of spiritual emphasis, I didn't feel preached at while reading. The two main characters mixed well together and their relationship was sweet. There were a few surprises that I didn't see coming and those were fun. Overall, this was a good story that spoke to me several times, while at the same time being a very enjoyable read.

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

True to You

True to You

Becky Wade

Nora considers herself the smart sister. Her older sister Willow is the beauty, her younger sister Britt is the creative one. But Nora has wrapped herself up in her identity as a librarian even more since her fiance dumped her for another woman three years ago. She's sworn off dating and spends time working on her passion of genealogy. 

John, a former Navy SEAL is wanting to find his birth mother. So when he meets Nora at a training session put on by his company, he decides to enlist her services. He has a girlfriend, so Nora isn't an option and they both know it. But perhaps God has another plan for them.

I've really been looking forward to this book since I read the prequel. It was everything I was expecting and a whole lot more. The characters are brought alive with the author's talented writing. I felt like I was living the story along side them. I lived on the west coast many years ago and I think the author did a great job of portraying the scenery and locations. There is humor, strong families, faith, and beauty in this story. But there is also heartache, pain, and brokenness. They were woven together so seamlessly that I thoroughly enjoyed the story as I rushed to read the ending, but after I put the book down I couldn't stop thinking about different aspects of it. The other sisters have major roles in this book that will make it easy to tie in to the next book in the series. If you love strong stories, with amazing characters who are flawed, but endearing then you need to read this book.

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

A Temporary Family

A Temporary Family

Sherri Shackelford

Tilly is taking her three nieces to their new home, while her widowed sister stays to sell the family home and wrap up loose ends. When she is stranded at a stage coach station with Nolan she doesn't expect to be pretend married and worried about her life. Nolan is a loner who has no intention of ever having a relationship. So when he's forced to pretend to be married to Tilly to protect her from outlaws, he shocked to discover he likes the idea.

This was a novel plot idea and I thought it was very fun. The characters were unique and the suspense and drama kept me guessing. The author did a great job of portraying the two main characters and their relationship so it felt authentic and real. They were flawed, but likeable. The secondary characters added depth to the story as well. The scenery came alive with the descriptions and I loved the light elements of faith that were woven into the plot. I've enjoyed this author before and definitely look forward to reading more of her books.

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

If You Were Me and Lived In. . .

If You Were Me and Lived In. . .

The Mayan Empire

Carole P. Roman

Children can learn about what it would be like if they were a child living during ancient times of the Mayan Empire. Colorful illustrations and photography show various aspects of life in a Mayan city. The book is told in story form and covers geography, history, food, games, home life, and holidays. All of the unfamiliar words have a pronunciation guide directly after the word as well as included in the glossary at the back of the book. There is also couple of pages listing some of the famous names from the culture and how they were significant.

My children loved the book and it opened up the conversation for more discussion and research about the Mayan culture and what it's like to live there. The author does a great job of getting information across without being too detailed or overwhelming. The book would be a good resource for schools or home school parents to add to the curriculum. 

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