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.

Devotions for the Hungry Heart

Devotions for the Hungry Heart

Chasing Jesus Six Days from Sunday

Shellie Rushing Tomlinson

The author has written a devotional style book with twenty weeks of readings that reflect the author's journey to a hunger for God. She focuses on six themes that include Sharing, Praying, and Celebrating. The book is hardcover and includes a ribbon bookmark and recipes in the middle. The recipes are on glossy paper and have pictures.

My first thoughts were extremely positive when viewing this book. I loved the cover. The colors and design really drew my attention. It's definitely wrapped in a beautiful package. The recipes were an odd, but nice addition. They aren't unique or super complicated, but seem to be more in the style of comfort food. Each day begins with a story and ends with a scripture that the author thinks fits with her story. I didn't really get the devotional vibe. It was more like reading the thoughts of a diary that had a faith base. Overall, I think this is a neat book, but wouldn't use it as a devotional.

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

12 Days at Bleakly Manor

12 Days at Bleakly Manor

Once Upon a Dicken's Christmas #1

Michelle Griep

 Clara receives a strange an anonymous invitation to visit Bleakly Manor for the Christmas holidays. But she has no idea who lives there or why she's received the invitation. All she knows is that she's been promised financial compensation if she stays for the whole 12 days. Since her life has taken a very wrong turn in the last year, she is really tempted to accept, despite her aunt's bad health. Upon arriving she finds out that other guests have been invited too, including the man she thought ditched her at the alter.

This was a very unique book. It has so many twists and turns. This is book one in a Dickens Christmas series set during the Victorian era. I loved the visuals that the author portrayed as well as some of the character development. The book focuses on the 12 days that the applicants spend in the manor, but also has some back story on the two main characters and how they ended up needing help. The pros - while I haven't read much Charles Dickens, I can say that I could see the nod to his work as well as Agatha Christie. I liked the uniqueness. 

Cons - The Christmas and Christian elements were very weak, the chemistry between the couple didn't show up for me, the accidents that kept happening didn't fit in with the plot and how it ended.

Overall, I liked the story, but felt there were some weak elements. The book could have been longer so that it had more time to explain some of the plot lines that were vague or missing.

So I will definitely pick up the next book in the series and withhold judgement until then. I think fans of mysteries and Charles Dickens will enjoy this short story.

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

Social Media

The Teen's Guide to Social Media & Mobile Devices

Jonathan McKee

There is so much technology out there available for teens and yet they often don't have the knowledge or maturity to deal with the consequences that often result from unfortunate choices. The author has broken down the various social media sites and walks the reader through the pitfalls and nuances of using each site. The book is broken up into 21 chapters, or tips, with a series of questions at the end. There is also an introduction with a letter to parents. 

I was expecting a dry and more adult focused book. Thankfully I was wrong. This book is actually written for teens and is perfect for the target audience. The letter to the parents is wonderful and after reading the into and the rest of the book, I had no worries about passing the book onto my teenager. My son actually wanted to read the book and sped through it. I couldn't believe that it kept his attention since he prefers fiction. The author did a great job of pointing out some of the dangers and addressing them without coming across as preachy. Loved this book and will be keeping it for my daughter when she gets older. I would definitely recommend this book for any parent with teens.

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

Brides of Kansas

Brides of Kansas (50 States of Love)
Tracey V. Bateman

The first story begins with a young woman who is trying to raise her little niece. When she's stranded in a small town due to lack of funds, she finds an advertisement for a wife and agrees to marry a stranger with children. After some difficulties, the two learn to manage their home together and have a possibility at love. The second two stories take the younger generation and tell their story of love in Kansas.

I'd read a couple of these stories previously, but enjoyed reading them again and together in one book. I think it's great that the publisher is reissuing these older books and putting them together in a collection. The book is part of a series by different authors. Each book is a Christian romance set in a different state. The author does a great job of weaving family, faith, and love into a light-hearted, romantic story.The characters were authentic and stood out despite the large number of family and town people added to the plot. There were a couple of times in several of the books that I wasn't crazy about (plot twists, characteristics of people, ways of handling a situation), but overall, I enjoyed the books and would read more by this author.

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

The Heart-Shaped Life

The Heart-Shaped Life

Karen Moore

 The author has written a book about love and how God fits into our lives and our hearts. Each devotional begins with a scripture, has a devotional thought, and ends with a short prayer. The colors of both the cover and the interior are beautiful and eye-catching. There is a ribbon bookmark as well. The days are numbered, but include a February 29 so the book can be used any year. The back of the book includes a scripture index for all of the texts used in the devotional. I read through the devotions and thought the author did a great job of creating thought provoking snippets that can be read quickly for the busy individual, but leave the reader contemplating them throughout the day. They are relevant and inspiring.

This book would make an excellent gift, but I recommend purchasing one for yourself as well. You will be blessed by the thoughts and hope that the author brings into her writing. The cover will tempt you to pick the book up and give it a try. Overall, I would definitely recommend you get this devotional if you are looking for something with short, but thoughtful passages.

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

Parenting with Grace and Truth

Parenting with Grace and Truth

Dan Seaborn

As Christian parents we strive to show Christ to our children. The author has taken scripture, the life of Christ, and his experience to write how parents can raise their children with with the delicate balance of truth and love. Each chapter ends with discussion questions.

I'll admit that based on the cover, I was expecting something dry. But I was pleasantly surprised. The author blended his thoughts with stories and antidotes that helped bring the points home. The message is easy to understand and put into practice. The questions  at the end would make this a great book for group discussion, but would definitely be good for parents to use themselves. 

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

My Heart Belongs in Fort Bliss, Texas

My Heart Belongs in Fort Bliss, Texas

Priscilla's Reveille

Erica Vetsch

Priscilla, a fashion artist, hates the military for taking her father and ruining her mother. So she's not exactly pleased when her brother joins the army. She hasn't seen him in years when she receives notification that he and his wife have passed away. She heads to Fort Bliss to get the niece and nephew that she's never met. But she meets resistance from their uncle, her late sister-in-law's brother. He's the local physician and loves the children dearly. He has no intention of letting them leave with a woman they've never met. Sparks fly as they both insist on being their guardian.

I really enjoyed this story. The characters were well defined and likable. The two little children were precious. The author did a great job of creating drama without setting the reader's mind against the two main characters. The scenery jumped off the page and helped the story come alive. The faith, importance of family, and sweet romances that were entwined in the plot made the whole thing come together beautifully. This is an author that is quickly becoming a favorite with every book of hers that I read. I would recommend this book if you enjoy clean romance, historical fiction, or a fun plot.

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

The Captive Heart

The Captive Heart

Michelle Griep

Eleanor, a governess, escapes England when her employer makes advances. She expects to be met by a man needing a governess for his children. When the man doesn't show up, she's purchased by Samuel to become a mother for his daughter. She doesn't expect the wild man who insists on marriage, but being penniless leaves her with no other option. 

This book begins with a bang and proceeds in the same way through the rest of the plot. Intrigue, suspense, and drama dog the footsteps of the couple as they try to weed their way through cultural differences, the beginnings of love, and a fledgling faith. I enjoyed the plot and how the author wove intricate details into the story. The character development was good and the backdrop for the story was well described and brought the story to life. I enjoy historical fiction, but don't usually pick this time period. I was glad that I did and I hope to enjoy more by this author in the future.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

A Different Beautiful

A Different Beautiful

Courtney Westlake

Courtney's world was changed completely when shortly after the birth of her daughter she was given the news that Brenna had a severe skin disorder. Courtney's dreams for what her future with her daughter would look like were instantly changed. Courtney shares her insights and thoughts on what she's learned in the four years since receiving the diagnosis.  Her concept of beauty was changed as God worked on her heart while she cared for her daughter.

The book is written simply, yet eloquently. Courtney shares from the heart about how her experiences have changed her, but she also shares a few personal details about her precious daughter Brenna. This book changed some of my thoughts and gave me a glimpse into another perspective. The book is touching, heartwarming, and thought provoking. The writing was real and honest and it felt like it came from the heart. It has stories that break up the thoughts, making this an interesting read as well. I think this is a book that everyone should read. We all need to step out of our comfort zones and preconceived ideas to take a look from someone else's view point.

I received this book free of charge from Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review.

The Cactus Creek Challenge

The Cactus Creek Challenge

Erica Vetsch

Every year the small town of Cactus Creek has a challenge. Two men change jobs for a month and the town votes on the one who performs his task the best. The winner puts the money that the town donates towards something the town needs, such as a new pump or books for the school. But this year the committee has decided to switch things up and allows women to enter for the first time. The night of the drawing the contestants find they are in for another surprise. Now a tiny slip of a girl is the new sheriff and a livery owner is the new baker. Things can't possibly go right for any of the contestants.

I'll be honest, I wasn't looking forward to picking up this book based on the description on the back. It just didn't appeal to me. But I'm so glad I finally did. I laughed the entire way through the book. These poor people just couldn't get things right and the results were hilarious. The sayings that the author threw in were a bonus for sure. The four couples find peace in their lives and also unexpected romance. The reader is watching four people, their families, and two romances playing out amid a devious plot by some thieves. I really enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it.

I received this book free of charge from Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review.

Obadiah Wilder

The Legend of Obadiah Wilder

The Glorious Defeat of the Dickenson Gang

Cactus Creek Challenge Prequel

Erica Vetsch

Obadiah is a legend in Cactus Creek. Many accounts of his exploits float around. But his good friend at the newspaper gets Obadiah to tell his story and then publishes it. This is that story. His son Ben knows all about the story because he was there. Now Ben is sheriff and his father's shoes are extremely big ones to fill.

I really enjoyed this short story. The author was able to capture my attention quickly. The characters are engaging and fit with the plot. The detail was sufficient to tell the reader what was happening and create a mental picture, but not so much that it overwhelmed the plot. This was my first experience with this reader and I really enjoyed it. The story was written to tie in with a book coming out soon. It definitely made me want to read the next book.

Petticoat Detective

Petticoat Detective

Undercover Ladies Book 1

Margaret Brownley

Amy, a female Pinkerton agent, is mistaken for a lady of the night when she arrives at the brothel to investigate the famous Gunnysack Bandit. Since this disguise works with her undercover assignment she plays along. But when Tom, a man in search of his brother's killer, keeps showing up she considers working with him to solve the case. But she can't allow the lines to blur between her attraction to Tom and her job. Especially since he thinks she actually works at the "hotel".

This was an entertaining and often amusing story. The two main characters worked well together and I liked the back story the author gave each of them. The secondary characters were a great addition to the plot as well and I hope to see some of them in the next book. The author did a great job of portraying how ostracized, hopeless and shamed the women felt. The message of forgiveness and salvation was subtle, but woven throughout the story. I enjoyed this book, as I have all of the author's other books and look forward to the next book in this series.

I received this book free of charge from Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review.

The Homestead Brides Collection

The Homestead Brides Collection

Nine Pioneering Couples Risk All for Love and Land

Mary Connealy, Darlene Franklin, Carla Olson Gade, Ruth Logan Herne, Pam Hillman, DiAnn Mills, Erica Vetsch, Becca Whitham, Kathleen Y'Barbo

Nine different women found love on the prairie as they dealt with the struggles of a harsh and unforgiving land. Each story is tied together only by the themes of love and location. But all nine stories showcase the writing style and talents of the authors who penned them. Each story has faith, family, resilience, and hope.

I enjoyed all of these stories and felt that each one gave a good idea of what the author's other books would be like. Since I was only familiar with the first one, this was a nice way to enjoy new authors. Each of the stories was well done and entertaining. I learned a lot about the time period as well as enjoyed the romantic and faith filled plots. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian romance or historical fiction.

I received this book free of charge from Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review.

Sweet Surprise Romance Collection

Sweet Surprise Romance Collection

9 Contemporary Romances Served with Delightful Desserts

Wanda Brunstetter, Kristin Billerbeck, Kristy Dykes, Aisha Ford, Birdie Etchison, Pamela Griffin, Joyce Livingston, Tamela Murray, Gail Sattler

Nine authors have come together to write deliciously sweet romance stories. Each story ties into the theme about sweets and ends with a recipe from the story. Most of the stories also have a tie-in to one of the first stories about an online cooking class. The stories are faith based and romantic, but also have elements of family and drama.

Another book that had pros and cons for me.

Pros:

I loved the cover. It perfectly describes the sweet theme. All of the stories are short so the book isn't overwhelming, but can be read little bits at a time. A couple of the stories were touching and had just the right touches of romance without being rushed or overly cheesy. I loved the recipes at the end of each story.

Cons:

Most of the stories were too rushed, too awkward, or not interesting. I had to make myself finish the book so I could write the review. Based on the book as a whole, I couldn't recommend buying the book for the two stories I did enjoy.

I received this book free of charge from Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review.

Brentwood's Ward

Brentwood's Ward

Michelle Griep

Nicholas desperately needs money so he can send his sister into the country to get well. When the opportunity to take a lucrative job comes up he asks very few questions. His job is to take care of the daughter of a wealthy merchant while the merchant is on a business trip to America. But the daughter, Emily, proves to be more difficult to care for than he anticipated. Add silly women intend on marriage, someone trying to kill them, and a pregnant maid and Nicholas has a serious problem.

I haven't read anything by this author before so this was a pleasant surprise. The descriptions and suspense were well done and added to the story. The plot line, while unbelievable at times, was fun to read. The characters were likable, although the female protagonist leaned towards the annoying side.  The Christian elements were subtle, but well written and gave you a sense of faith instead of being blasted with it. Overall, I liked the story and will definitely pick up another book by this author.

I received this book free of charge from Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review.

The Preacher's Bride Collection

The Preacher's Bride Collection

Six Old-Fashioned Romances Built on Faith and Love

DiAnn Mills, Colleen Reece, Kimberley Comeaux, Kristy Dykes, Darlene Franklin, Sally Laity

Six separate authors tell historical romance stories about young women who meet preachers that might some day become their husband. Each story is tied together with the theme, but otherwise stands alone. Novellas are a great way of checking out new authors to see what their writing style is like.

I enjoyed these stories. As with every collection I enjoyed some more than others, but all of them were sweet, romantic, and faith based. Some of them even had a little bit of drama. Each story fit well with the theme. The spiritual lessons that the authors brought out in the stories added depth. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes to read, but doesn't have a lot of time, or to someone searching for a new author to fall in love with.

I received this book free of charge from Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review.

The Farmer's Daughter

The Farmer's Daughter Romance Collection

Five Historical Romances Homegrown in the American Heartland

Tracie Peterson, Mary Davis, Kelly Eileen Hake, Jill Stengl, Susan May Warren

Marty's Ride

Marty is in for the ride and experience of her life when she rushes to save her two nieces that were kidnapped from their home. She expects hardships and difficulties. What she doesn't expect to find is God, love, and friendships.

A Time to Keep

Rosalind doesn't want to marry the man her mother is pushing her towards. So when the railroad men come into town she comes up with a plan to open a diner in an attempt to spend time with a man who interests her.

Beyond Today

Amy has always lived in the shadow of her vivacious twin sister. But when a man comes to town that peaks her interest she learns to plan ahead for her future.

Myles from Anywhere

Myles left home when he was a teenage, running from a stifling home situation. But now he's a grown man and has made the mistake of falling in love with his boss's girlfriend. Myles must learn to forgive and heal before he can have the girl of his dreams.

Letters from the Enemy

Lilly has promised to marry Reggie. But he's overseas fighting the Germans. So she writes him letters while waiting at home for his return. But when she runs into a man that is clearly German her heart beats like it never has with Reggie. Lilly is torn between a promise and her heart's desire.

Each of these stories are sweet and romantic. I enjoyed each one of them, but Beyond Today and Letters from the Enemy were my favorites. Each story is a stand alone and is tied together by the theme. Each story brings out an element of faith that makes the story clean, refreshing, uplifting, and romantic.

I received this book free of charge from Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review.

Jonah and the Bear

 Jonah and the Bear

The Bible Amigos

Frank Fraser

 

Three friends named Wall, Donk, and Edge go where ever their flying bible takes them trying to rescue other animals while spreading the news about God's love. Each book in the series is based on a Biblical story and helps the young reader grasp the meaning behind the stories. The book begins with the young friends playing in the fall leaves.  But when the flying Bible appears they jump on to rescue someone. The Bible story helps them know how to help the little animal in trouble. The story ends with several Bible verses.

My children loved the illustrations which helped to tell the story. The Bible story is woven into the modern story very seamlessly. The lesson on sharing is something that every child should hear. The way the story is told will open up opportunities to discuss why the bear was having problems. The Bible verses at the end add dimension and help tie everything together. Because of the fun interpretation children will better remember the lessons they learned while reading. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone with young children.

I received this book free of charge from Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review.

Five Loves,Two Fish, And One Big Hat

Five Loves,Two Fish, And One Big Hat

The Bible Amigos

Frank Fraser

Three friends named Wall, Donk, and Edge go where ever their flying bible takes them trying to rescue other animals while spreading the news about God's love. Each book in the series is based on a Biblical story and helps the young reader grasp the meaning behind the stories. The book begins with the young friends getting ready to eat some pizza. But when the flying Bible appears they jump on to rescue someone. The Bible story helps them know how to help the little animal in trouble. The story ends with several Bible verses.

My children loved the illustrations which helped to tell the story. The Bible story is woven into the modern story very seamlessly. The Bible verses at the end add dimension and help tie everything together. Because of the fun interpretation children will better remember the lessons they learned while reading.

I received this book free of charge from Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review.