Summer of Joy by Ann Gabhart from Revell

Summer of Joy

by Ann Gabhart

 

ABOUT THIS BOOK

As summer draws to a close Jocie’s world seems serene–but is it just the calm before a storm?

Unbeknownst to Jocie Brooke and her family, two people are making their way to the small town of Hollyhill, Kentucky. One everyone thought was gone for good and the other no one’s ever heard of. Still, one thing is sure–they promise trouble. The past is coming to call, threatening to destroy strong relationships that everyone has simply taken for granted.

The summer of 1964 may be winding down, but the controversy in this little community where nothing ever seems to change is just heating up.

Bestselling author Ann Gabhart invites you to Hollyhill for a story both exciting and enduring that will stick with you long after you turn the last page.

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

I enjoyed this book so much, it is just a sweet story! After struggling through several problems in the small community of Hollyhill, Kentucky, things seem be simmering down and everyone is looking forward to hear of wedding plans. But can David find the nerve to ask the could be bride?

And just when David thinks things are calm and quiet, and he’s overcoming his nervousness, the past comes back to haunt him. The community is again in a whirlwind when two people show up unexpectedly. Join the fun as you follow the journey of these realistic and believable characters!

Another wonderful story from Ann H. Gabhart, full of family, friend, love and just enjoyable characters.

 

ABOUT THIS AUTHOR

© Scott Campbell Photography

Ann H. Gabhart

Ann H. Gabhart is the bestselling author of Angel Sister, Small Town Girl, and Words Spoken True, as well as several Shaker novels–The Outsider, The Believer, The Seeker, The Blessed, and The Gifted–and…

Continue reading about Ann H. Gabhart

Dancing with Fireflies by Denise Hunter

Dancing with Fireflies

by Denise Hunter

A Chapel Springs Romance

Jade returns home to Chapel Springs after years of protecting her fragile heart. Then along comes Daniel, making her long to dance again.

Creative and complicated, Jade McKinley felt like a weed in a rose garden growing up in Chapel Springs. When she left, she thought she’d never look back. But now, pregnant, alone, and broke, she has no other choice but to return.

The mayor of Chapel Springs, Daniel Dawson, has been an honorary member of the McKinley family for years. While his own home life was almost non-existent, Daniel fit right into the boisterous McKinley family. He’s loved Jade for years, but she always saw him as a big brother. Now that she’s back, his feelings are stronger than ever.

As Jade attempts to settle in, nothing feels right. God seems far away, she’s hiding secrets from her family, and she’s strangely attracted to the man who’s always called her “squirt.” Finding her way home may prove more difficult than she imagined.

Learn more and purchase a copy at Denise’s website.

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

If you enjoy a good clean romantic book, then I highly recommend Dancing with Fireflies. Even though Jade saw Daniel as only a brother, his thoughts were different, and I enjoyed the twists and turns happening in this story to try and pull them together. These characters are so very good! As you follow these two characters, you will be drawn into the story with them, experiencing all of the tensions and difficulties as well. Denise Hunter is an awesome storyteller, and she weaves a wonderful story together with these characters and this wonderful family. There is just something about a family like this that surrounds me, and makes me one of their own, and I love it when this happens.

There is a lot that goes on in this story, but I don’t want to ruin it for you, so I will just say, grab a copy for yourself, and enjoy! And even though this is the second book in this series, I think it will read just find for a stand alone book! And you can always look up Barefoot Summer to read first if you would like

I highly recommend this book to anyone that like a story full of romance, love and family. You just can’t go wrong.

I received this book from Litfuse to read and review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Denise Hunter is an internationally published best-selling author. Her books have won The Holt Medallion Award, The Reader’s Choice Award, The Foreword Book of the Year Award, and was a RITA finalist. In 1996, inspired by the death of her grandfather, Denise began her first book, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she’s been writing ever since. Her husband says he inspires all of her romantic stories, but Denise insists a good imagination helps, too. When Denise isn’t writing, she’s busy raising three heroes-in-the-making with her husband.

 

Litfuse Presents…The Devil Walks in Mattingly by Billy Coffey

Litfuse Presents…

The Devil Walks in Mattingly

ABOUT THIS BOOK

For the three people tortured by their secret complicity in a young man’s untimely death, redemption is what they most long for . . . and the last thing they expect to receive.

It has been twenty years since Philip McBride’s body was found along the riverbank in the dark woods known as Happy Hollow. His death was ruled a suicide. But three people have carried the truth ever since—Philip didn’t kill himself that day. He was murdered.

Each of the three have wilted in the shadow of their sins. Jake Barnett is Mattingly’s sheriff, where he spends his days polishing the fragile shell of the man he pretends to be. His wife, Kate, has convinced herself the good she does for the poor will someday wash the blood from her hands. And high in the mountains, Taylor Hathcock lives in seclusion and fear, fueled by madness and hatred.

Yet what cannot be laid to rest is bound to rise again. Philip McBride has haunted Jake’s dreams for weeks, warning that he is coming back for them all. When Taylor finds mysterious footprints leading from the Hollow, he believes his redemption has come. His actions will plunge the quiet town of Mattingly into darkness. These three will be drawn together for a final confrontation between life and death . . . Between truth and lies.

Purchase a copy and learn more at Billy’s website.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS  BOOK

Phillip McBride may be dead, but he just may appear and let the everyone know that he didn’t kill himself, that he was murdered. And the three people involved in his murder had better watch out. And this is just what Phillip is letting them know, it special ways that only he can tell? Or what is really happening in the town of Mattingly that has the sheriff and his wife, and a man by the name of Taylor Hathcock all up in the air about Pillip McBride all of a sudden.

This is a really interesting and intriguing book to read. This is my first read by this author, and I wasn’t sure who this devil was, but as I started reading, I didn’t want to stop. As sheriff Jake, Kate and Taylor continue to have nightmares and sees signs of Phillip, the terror in their hearts grows stronger. Knowing Phillip is really dead, they are so convicted that they had a part of his death and the guilt is so strong, they can hardly stand it. As Coffee weaves the story together in an amazing venturous thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seats. What will happen in the end? That’s just why you need to read this really good thriller by Billy Coffey. If you enjoy a fast pace plot, with twists and turns and many thrills, this book is surely for you!

I received this book from Litfuse to read and review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55

 

 

 

ABOUT THIS AUTHOR

Billy Coffey

Billy Coffey’s critically-acclaimed books combine rural Southern charm with a vision far beyond the ordinary. He is a regular contributor to several publications, where he writes about faith and life. Billy lives with his wife and two children in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Heart’s Rebellion by Ruth Axtell

The Heart’s Rebellion

by Ruth Axtell

ABOUT THIS BOOK In a world governed by unspoken rules, one young woman is about to break them all . . . Dutiful Jessamine Barry is tired of waiting patiently for a man to decide her future. So even though Lancelot Marfleet, second son of an aristocrat, is taking an interest in her during the London season, she refuses to consider him as a suitor. Instead, she’s ready to take fashionable society by storm–and finds a rakish young man all too willing to help her do it. Can Jessamine trust her heart to lead her to a love that proves true through thick and thin? Or will her rash actions close the door on the life she really desires?   MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK Jessamine Barry left her old life to ease the pain of a broken heart, but she soon finds out that she ran the wrong way. Jessamine’s new fast pace life leads her into situations much worse that those she ran from. It is through the love, mercy and grace of God that this young lady is able to find her true self, and the life that God has for her. The Heart’s Rebellion is a really pleasant historical read. Following Jessamine’s life, there are many things that relates to the lives of many people today. And I appreciate the way Ms. Axtell weaves the scriptures into the lives of her characters. I enjoyed getting to know Jessamine, as well as the rest of the characters surrounding her. You will be entertained while reading this refreshing book from author Ruth Axtell. I received this book from Revell to read and review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55   PRAISE  Lose yourself in Ruth Axtell’s sumptuous story of discovering one’s true self and finding true love. “Rich and rewarding, A Heart’s Rebellion is a regency unmatched, capturing readers with a plot so unique and compelling, pages will fly and sleep will be lost. With grace and mastery, Ruth Axtell has penned a lush regency tale where a heart’s rebellion slowly ripens into a love everlasting.”–Julie Lessman, award-winning author of the Daughters of Boston and Winds of Change series Ruth Axtell is the author of many novels, including Moonlight Masquerade and Wild Rose, one of Booklist’s Top Ten in Christian Fiction. Currently a resident of Downeast Maine, Axtell has lived in the Canary Islands, Miami, and the Netherlands. Learn more at http://www.ruthaxtell.com.

Tide and Tempest by Elizabeth Ludwig

This week, the 

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance 

is introducing 

Tide and Tempest 

Bethany House Publishers (March 4, 2014) 

by 

Elizabeth LudwigABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Elizabeth Ludwig is an award-winning author whose work has been featured on Novel Rocket, the Christian Authors Network, and The Christian Pulse. Her first novel, Where the Truth Lies (co-authored with Janelle Mowery), earned her the 2008 IWA Writer of the Year Award. This book was followed in 2009 by “I’ll be Home for Christmas”, part of the Christmas anthology collection, Christmas Homecoming.

In 2011, her second mystery, Died in the Wool (co-authored with Janelle Mowery) was nominated for a Carol Award. In 2012, the popular EDGE OF FREEDOM series released from Bethany House Publishers. Books one and two, No Safe Harbor and Dark Road Home, respectively, earned 4 Stars from the RT Book Reviews. Book three, Tide and Tempest, received top honors with 4 1/2 Stars.

Elizabeth is an accomplished speaker and teacher, often attending conferences and seminars where she lectures on editing for fiction writers, crafting effective novel proposals, and conducting successful editor/agent interviews. Along with her husband and children, she makes her home in the great state of Texas.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Two years ago, her fiance perished during their voyage to America.

Now she discovers it may have been murder…

Dreaming of a better life, Tillie McGrath leaves Ireland behind and, with her beloved fiance by her side, sets sail for America. But when illness robs her of the man she holds dear, she’s left alone with only a handful of tattered memories. While forging on proves difficult, Tillie soon finds some new friends at her New York boardinghouse, and begins pursuing a new dream–to open a home for orphaned children.

Despite two years passing, Captain Keondric Morgan has never forgotten the lass who left his ship so heartbroken. When a crewman’s deathbed confession reveals her fiance’s demise was the result of murder, the captain knows he must try to contact her. But his attention draws the notice of others as well–dangerous men who believe Tillie has in her possession something that could expose their crimes. And to their way of thinking, the best way to prevent such an outcome is to seize the evidence and then hand Tillie the same fate as her naïve fiance.

MY THOUGHTS

I love this book, and all of the others books from Elizabeth Ludwig. I ached so bad for Tillie because of the loss of her fiancé, and I was glad when she started meeting new friends at the boarding house she was staying at, and begin to heal. Then she finds out through a crewman that he fiancé’s death bed confession reveals he was murdered, her life changes and she’s suffering again. This is so much emotional heartache and tension in this book, and with the difficulties Tillie faces, you will not want to put this awesome historical fiction down after you start reading! I highly recommend that you add Tide and Tempest to your reading list! You will not be disappointed in this one!!

I received this book from CFBA to read and review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55

 

 

If you would like to read the first chapter of Tide and Tempest, go HERE.

CFBA Presents Poison Town by Creston Mapes

I didn’t review this book with CFBA But I enjoyed it so much I wanted to post it again with you guys!!!! Love Creston Mapes fiction!

This week, the 

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance 

is introducing 

Poison Town 

David C. Cook (February 1, 2014) 

by 

Creston MapesABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Creston has fond memories of his boyhood in Bath, Ohio, where he became enchanted with his future wife, way back in the fourth grade. His father, Bernie, owned and operated The Weathervane Furniture Shop in town. The whole family lived right upstairs in the century-old house known as “The Shop.”

Creston studied journalism at Bowling Green State University, then began his writing career. During the past 30 years, he has worked as a reporter, corporate copywriter, creative director, freelance writer, and author.
ABOUT THE BOOK

There’s More Than One Kind of Poison in This Town

People are sick and dying. Rumors are swirling. Some claim chemicals leaking from a manufacturing plant are causing the cancer that’s crippling people on the poor side of Trenton City, Ohio. Yet nothing at the plant appears amiss.

The problem remains a mystery until reporter Jack Crittendon’s long-time mechanic falls ill and he investigates. Soon Jack becomes engulfed in a smokescreen of lies, setups, greed, and scandal.

The deeper he digs, the more toxic the corruption he uncovers. As he faces off with the big-time players behind the scenes and tries to beat the clock before more people die, he realizes the chillingly unthinkable–he knows too much.

If you’d like to read the first chapter of Poison Town, go HERE.

CFBA Presents How Sweet the Sound by Amy Sorrells

This week, the 

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance 

is introducing 

How Sweet the Sound 

David C. Cook (March 1, 2014) 

by 

Amy K. SorrellsABOUT THE AUTHOR:

An Indianapolis native and graduate of DePauw University, Amy lives with her husband, three boys and a gaggle of golden retrievers in central Indiana. After writing and editing for her college newspaper, she combined a nursing degree with journalism and creative writing, which led to publishing and editing a wide array of medical and nursing writing and multimedia projects over the past 21 years, a position as director of communications of her church’s children’s ministry, as well as a weekly column for a local newspaper which ran from 2009-2012. She has been a two-time semi-finalist for the ACFW Genesis awards, and was the winner of the 2011 Women of Faith writing contest.

When she’s not reading or writing, Amy loves spending time with her three sons; spicy lunches and art gallery walks with her husband; digging in her garden sans gloves; walking her dogs; up-cycling old furniture and junk; photography; and friends.

ABOUT THE BOOK

From a distance, the Harlans appear to be the perfect Southern family. Wealth and local fame mask the drama and dysfunction swirling through their family line. But as the summer heats up, a flood tide of long hidden secrets surface.

Devastation from a rape followed by the murder of two family members brings three generations of the Harlans together on their pecan plantation in Bay Spring, Alabama. Chief among them is Anniston, who by the time she turned thirteen thought she’d seen it all. But as her heart awakens to the possibility of love, she begins to deal with her loneliness and grief.

This tender coming-of-age tale, inspired by the story of Tamar in 2 Samuel 13, shows how true healing and hope comes only from God. Though our earthly family can wound and disappoint, our heavenly Father brings freedom to those long held captive through His mercy and grace.

If you would like to read the first chapter of How Sweet the Sound, go HERE.

The Quilted Heart by Mona Hodgson

The Quilted Heart 

by Mona Hodgson

This is a combination of three Novella’s by Mona HodgsonIn Dandelions on the Wind, Maren Jensen moved in with Elsa Brantenberg to work for room and board after a mail-order-bride deal gone wrong. Maren’s life changed when Wooly shows up at the farm to work.

Bending Toward the Sun, working at the general store and going to college doesn’t leave time for love in Emilie Heinrich’s life. But then a childhood friend comes back in town, would that change things for Emilie?

Ripples Along the Shore, it is almost time for the Boone’s Lick Wagon Train, led by the mysterious and handsome Garrett Cowlishaw to leave for California, but will the widow Caroline go along? It is time for a change in Caroline’s life after losing her husband in the Civil Was, but is a cross country trip on a Wagon Train the answer for Caroline?

This is a collection of stories that takes place just after the Civil War, and the people of small town of St. Charles, Missouri is trying to get their lives back together in their own way. Some will decide to stay in the town, where others choose to leave their home and join the Wagon Train to California. I enjoyed these heartwarming stories created by Mona Hudgson, with believable and solid characters, playing out the scenes as they faced the difficult decisions before them. And I appreciate the way Ms. Hudgson weaves the principles of the Bible into the lives of her characters. Through the heartache of losing family members and friends to the war, and the romance found within the characters of this town, Ms. Hudgson tells a compelling story that will stay with you for long after you finish reading. Those who enjoy historical fiction, and especially fiction written around the Civil War era are sure to enjoy this one.

In The Shadow of Jezebel by Mesu Andrews….from Revell

In The Shadow of Jezebel 

by Mesu Andrews

 

About this book

In a kingdom controlled by cruel and manipulative women, one princess will discover the power of truth and love.

Trained as a priestess in the temple of Baal, Princess Jehosheba strives to please the demanding Queen Athaliah, daughter of Jezebel. But when a mysterious letter from the dead prophet Elijah predicts doom for the royal household, Jehosheba realizes that the dark arts she practices reach far beyond the realm of earthly governments.

Forced to marry Yahweh’s high priest in order to further Athaliah and Jezebel’s power plays, Jehosheba enters the unfamiliar world of Yahweh’s Temple. Can her new husband show her the truth and love she craves? And can Jehosheba overcome her fear and save the family–and the nation–she loves?

With deft skill, Mesu Andrews brings the Old Testament to life, revealing a fascinating story of the power of unconditional love.

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

I have read all of Mesu Andrews books and I Love them all! She is such an amazing writer!  In The Shadow of Jezebel is an especially interesting story for me because although I know about Jezebel, I had never read a lot about her in the Bible. Ms. Andrews weaves together a host of historical characters with a historical setting in Bible times of when this lady lived on earth. The vivid details of history during that time, along with the characters and they story she tells, I feel like I know Jezebel pretty well! I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know this Biblical figure and especially enjoyed watching the scenes come alive throughout the pages of this book. I know this is fiction, but even though it is a fictional story, it helps to understand how people lived their everyday lives back in those Bible times. I, for one, love reading Biblical fiction, and I highly recommend In The Shadow of Jezebel to those of you who enjoy historical and Biblical fiction. And if you don’t, I strongly encourage you to read this book just to see what you think! You will be pleasantly surprised!

I received this book from CFBA to read and review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mesu Andrews is the award-winning author of Love Amid the Ashes, Love’s Sacred Song, and Love in a Broken Vessel. Winner of the 2012 ECPA Christian Book Award for New Author, she has devoted herself to passionate and intense study of Scripture, bringing the biblical world vividly alive for her readers. She lives in Washington. Learn more at http://www.mesuandrews.com.

From Barbour Books…The Alaskan Brides Collection ** by Mary Connealy, Cathy Marie Hake, Tracie Peterson, Kathleen Y’Barbo

The Alaskan Brides Collection

by Mary Connealy, Cathy Marie Hake, Tracie Peterson, Kathleen Y’Barbo

ABOUT THIS BOOK

Experience five Alaska adventures through the lives of determined women who overcome the many challenges to build their lives in the wilderness. From the gold rush, through a diphtheria epidemic, to the building of the Alcan Highway, readers will enjoy the stubborn fight each woman displays as love comes into her life. Will the women also give up fighting God and let Him lead them through America’s last frontier?

 

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

The Alaskan Brides Collection is five historical fiction story written by five four amazing authors. One author writes two of the stories. The stories in this collection the authors, and a blurb about each story are as follows:

Golden Dawn by Cathy Marie Hake…. Living on her twin brother’s Alaska claim, Meredith Smith regularly refuses marriage proposals that give her little hope for being more than a maid and a cook, but it is the neighbor, Ian Rafferty, who offers only Christian friendship who intrigues her most. Will secrets from her past bar her from any chance at a loving marriage?

Golden Days by Mary Connealy……..Amy Simons may be small, but she is tough and strong enough to survive Alaska’s worst—if only she can reach her father, a trapper in the wilderness. Brandon Rafferty hopes to escape the grief of losing his wife, but he didn’t expect to find another needy woman along the way, another woman who will depend on him for strength.

Golden Twilight by Kathleen Y’Barbo……… Feeling exiled to her brothers’ homes in the Alaskan frontier, Fiona Rafferty’s one goal is to get back to civilization to enroll in medical school, not to find a husband as her father wishes. Can she make room in her dreams to include a man with a dark past—a man like Tucker Smith?

A Light the Window by Tracie Peterson………. Julie Eriksson is finally fulfilling her dreams of bringing medical care to the Eskimos of Nome. Persistent marriage proposals from Sam Curtiss make her fearful of having to give up her dream and disappoint her deceased mother. Then an outbreak of diphtheria banishes such troubles from Julie’s mind. The only cure lies hundreds of miles away, across the frozen frontier.

Destiny’s Road by Tracie Peterson……… Beth Hogan loses her husband in World War II and returns to Alaska with her two sons only to find their remote village overrun by soldiers and civilians coming to build the Alcan Highway. Then she finds a second chance at love when she meets August Eriksson.

 

All of these stories are so well written and so wonderful, I wouldn’t even try to pick a favorite! Each story features a young lady with struggles of her own, trying to fulfill her purpose in life. I fell in love with each of the ladies, and I read each of these stories in one setting. And this is the awesome thing about this collection. The stories are pretty short, so if you don’t have time to read a full long book, you will love these. Or if you are like me, and just want something different and quick to read, you will love this took. I just can’t say enough about how awesome these stories are, and I don’t want to tell anything much, because I will give them away! But as you can see, the stories are written by four of the most amazing authors, so the stories have to be just as amazing!!

And I can’t leave out the book cover because it is beautiful!! I love the ragged edges, the cover and inside flaps are so pretty, I have this and others in this series on my coffee table. This is truly a book that you will want others to see in your home, and it makes a really good conversation piece!!

I received this book from the Barbour Books to read and review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55

 

 

A Stillness of Chimes by Meg Moseley

 

A Stillness of Chimes

by Meg Moseley

 

ABOUT THIS BOOK

What if the pain of the past revealed an unknown sacrifice that changes everything?

When teacher Laura Gantt comes home to Prospect, Georgia to settle her recently-deceased mother’s household, the last thing she expects to encounter is a swirl of rumors about the father she lost to the lake twelve years ago—that he has reportedly been seen around town. Elliott Gantt’s body was never found and he was presumed dead.

Reeling from the sharp loss of a parent, Laura must now grapple with painful memories surrounding her father’s disappearance and the sense of abandonment she experienced after his death. Life-long friend and former beau Sean Halloran wants nothing more than to protect Laura from the far-fetched stories of Elliott’s resurrection and to care for her, but he has his own reasons, troubling echoes from his childhood, to put Elliott’s disappearance to rest.

Working together, Laura and Sean begin to uncover the truth, one mired in the wooded peaks and deep waters of the Blue Ridge Mountains surrounding Prospect. Can they fathom how many secrets the steep hills hold? With surprising facts revealed, will Laura be able to understand the sacrificial choices made that forever changed her life? And can love and a peace with God be rekindled in her heart after so much time has passed? – See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9780307730787#sthash.Fmtogz7Y.dpuf

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Finding out the dad you thought you lost years ago is now rumored to me living has to be a bittersweet feeling. And that is just what happened to Laura in this story. Returning home to clear out her mom’s belongings after her death is difficult enough, but to hear that her dad may be alive changes feelings about everything. And why would he frame his death and disappear? There are a lot of questions to be answered in A Stillness of Chimes, and I enjoyed the journey into the life of Laura’s family. I liked the little town of Prospect, Georgia and their people, though the town seemed to hold secrets that would later come to life as the story unfolds! And Meg Moseley creates a cast of realistic and unforgettable characters that will warm their way into your hearts, well most of them will, that is. I love Granny Colfax, she is one of those people that knows everything that is going on in a little community, no matter how weird she acts! And I so wanted everything good to happen to Sean, because he was just that kind of guy, though it was taking Laura a long time to realize it. Sean was just the person Laura needed to help her through all of the secrets she was uncovering.

I have been a huge fan of Meg Moseley’s since I read her first book, and she surely didn’t disappoint in A Stillness of Chimes. This was another heartwarming story from Ms. Moseley that is entertaining, fun, enjoyable and just a good clean read. The only thing I didn’t really like about this story was part of the ending, I just wanted a little more from Laura and the situation with her dad, but other than that, this was a fantastic read!

 “I received this book for free from Blogging for Books for this review.”  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Meg Moseley is still a Californian at heart although she’s lived more than half her life in other states. Holding jobs that ranged from candle-maker to administrative assistant, Meg eventually contributed human-interest pieces for a suburban edition of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Contemporary fiction remains her real love, and she’s the author of When Sparrows Fall and Gone South. She lives in Atlanta near the foothills of the Southern Appalachians with her husband. – See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/author-spotlight.php?authorid=123046#sthash.TUzwKzHW.dpuf

Author’s Website

• Facebook
• Twitter
• More Info
• Read Chapter One
• Author Bio

Litfuse Presents It Had to be You by Susan May Warren

It Had to be You 

by Susan May Warren

 

ABOUT THIS BOOK

A Christensen Family Novel.

Eden Christiansen never imagined her role as her younger brother Owen’s cheerleader would keep her on the sidelines of her own life. Sure, it feels good to be needed, but looking after the reckless NHL rookie leaves little time for Eden to focus on her own career. She dreamed of making a name for herself as a reporter, but is stuck writing obits—and starting to fear she doesn’t have the chops to land a major story. If only someone would step up to mentor Owen . . . but she knows better than to expect help from team veteran and bad-boy enforcer Jace Jacobsen.

Jace has built his career on the infamous reputation of his aggressive behavior—on and off the ice. Now at a crossroads about his future in hockey, that reputation has him trapped. And the guilt-trip he’s getting from Eden Christiansen isn’t making things any easier. But when Owen’s carelessness leads to a career-threatening injury and Eden stumbles upon a story that could be her big break, she and Jace are thrown together . . . and begin to wonder if they belong on the same team after all.

Learn more and purchase a copy at Susan’s website.

 

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

I love, love this book! Everything Susan May Warren writes is just awesome and this book is one of my very favorite books! I didn’t get to read and review the first book in this series, but I am buying it so I can read it! I think this is my first book about a hockey player, and centers around the team and games. It was interesting to get an inside view of the players and what they go through as famous hockey players. When I finished reading It Had to be You, I felt as though I’d had a front row seat with this family and team! I loved all of the vivid details in each scene. Ms. Warren does an amazing job of pulling you right into the story along with her other characters, and I think that was my favorite part in reading! I can just go on and on about this book, but I think you need to read It Had to be You and see for yourself! I just know you will love the story line and the characters just as much as I did. I love the was the characters supported each other, and I appreciate the way Ms. Warren weaves God, and the Christian life into the lives of the characters. She surely shows that God is waiting on us to call out to him, no matter how deep and dark the situation.

I highly recommend It Had to be You, and I encourage you to check out the first book in this series. I know I am! Though it is not necessary, because this is great as a stand alone!

I received this book from Litfuse to read and review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Susan May Warren is the bestselling, RITA Award–winning author of more than forty novels whose compelling plots and unforgettable characters have won acclaim with readers and reviewers alike. She served with her husband and four children as a missionary in Russia for eight years before she and her family returned home to the States. She now writes full-time as her husband runs a lodge on Lake Superior in northern Minnesota, where many of her books are set. She and her family enjoy hiking, canoeing, and being involved in their local church. Several of her critically acclaimed novels have been ECPA and CBA bestsellers, were chosen as Top Picks by Romantic Times, and have won the RWA’s Inspirational Reader’s Choice contest and the American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year award. Five of her books have been Christy Award finalists. In addition to her writing, Susan loves to teach and speak at women’s events about God’s amazing grace in our lives. She also runs a writing community for authors. Visit MyBookTherapy.com to learn more. For exciting updates on her new releases, previous books, and more, visit her website at http://www.susanmaywarren.com

Litfuse Presents A Sky Without Stars by Linda S. Clare

A Sky Without Stars

 

A Sky Without Stars | A Quilts of Love Book

In 1951, Frankie Chasing Bear is a Lakota caught between cultures. She wants to raise her son Harold to revere his Lakota heritage, but she knows he will need to become as a white man to succeed. After his father’s killed in a barroom brawl, Harold and Frankie move to Arizona, where she begins a Lakota Star pattern quilt for Harold with tribal wisdom sung, sewn and prayed into it.

She distrusts Christians, as her own parents were forced to convert at an Indian School, until she meets BIA agent Nick Vandergriff, a half-Lakota who’s also caught between cultures. Nick must convince Frankie that white men and Christians aren’t all bad as he tries to win her heart in order to put the stars back into her sky.

Purchase a copy and learn more at the Quilts of Love website.

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

A Sky Without Stars is another awesome book in The Quilts of Love Series from Abingdon Press. And like the other books, this one centers around a special quilt called the Lakota Star quilt. Frankie Chasing Bear’s Lakota grandmother taught her how to quilt, and also about the history of this Lakota Star quilt and the importance of keeping the story of the quilt alive.

I really enjoyed this story, it was different from the others, a lot of the characters being Native Americans. Frankie’s move to Arizona was not what she really wanted, but she had to do what was best for her son. Linda Clare not only writes a wonderful story to read, the history throughout the book taught me a lot about the Lakota’s as well as the fear and uncertainty striking out on their own. Through Frankie’s character, I could feel her emotions and the difficult she had trusting others, especially Christians. When she meets Nick, her attitude started to slowly change, as Nick spent time showing her what real Christians are like. This is a heartwarming story that will stay with you for a while. This is my first book by this author, and I will be looking for more Linda Clare books in the future.

I received this book from Litfuse to read and review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55

 

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Linda S. Clare is an award-winning coauthor of three books, including “Lost Boys and the Moms Who Love Them” (with Melody Carlson and Heather Kopp), “Revealed: Spiritual Reality in a Makeover World,” and “Making Peace with a Dangerous God” (with Kristen Johnson Ingram). She is also the author of “The Fence My Father Built.” She has taught college-level creative writing classes for seven years, and edits and mentors writers. She also is a frequent writing conference presenter and church retreat leader. She and her husband of thirty-one years have four grown children, including a set of twins. They live in Eugene, Oregon, with their five wayward cats: Oliver, Xena the Warrior Kitty, Paladine, Melchior, and Mamma Mia!

 

 

 

Sabrina’s Man by Gilbert Morris

Sabrina’s Man

by Gilbert Morris

 

ABOUT THIS BOOK

Join Sabrina and Waco on a Wild West ride through Indian Territory. Sabrina’s pampered life comes to a screeching halt when a vile conman steals away her younger sister. When her daddy’s money can’t buy justice, Sabrina takes matters into her own delicate but stubborn hands and heads west to track down the outlaw. To Sabrina’s disgust, her solitary hope for saving Marianne seems to be Waco Smith, an only slightly reformed ex-criminal himself. Will these two unlikely allies bond over more than just a shared mission of rescue and revenge?

Western Justice Series:
Book 1 – Rosa’s Land
Book 2 – Sabrina’s Man – Available December 2013
Book 3 – Raina’s Choice – Available June 2014

 

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Sabrina wasn’t a likeable character because she acted like a spoiled brat, and was always determined to get her way. And her determination lead her on a journey to the Oklahoma Indian Territory to find her sister. A sister who fell in love with an evil man, but he acted sweet as sugar until he looked her, and of course she didn’t find out until she ran away with him. Sabrina and her feisty behavior takes off to Oklahoma, trying to find her. She meets up with a cowboy who has been looking for the outlaw for some time, and they hook up together.

I was taken back at some of the negative reviews for this book. I don’t think Sabrina’s Man is the best work of Gilbert Morris but it is an enjoyable read. For me, Sabrina’s actions wasn’t realistic, and going after a wanted outlaw like she did seemed immature, but the ending was good. The first book in this series was a much better book, and I am waiting on the third book, because I want to continue the story. Overall, this is a really good historical western read. I encourage you to pick up a copy to read and write your own review!

I received this book from the Barbour Books to read and review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55

 

ABOUT THIS AUTHOR

Award-winning, bestselling author, Gilbert Morris, is well known for penning numerous Christian novels for adults and children since 1984 with 6.5 million books in print. He is probably best known for the forty-book House of Winslow series, and his Edge of Honor was a 2001 Christy Award winner. He lives with his wife in Gulf Shores, Alabama.

Beowulf by Ronie Kendig from Barbour Books

Beowulf

by Ronie Kendig

ABOUT THIS BOOK

Beowulf—a hulky, brindle-coated bullmastiff—is the only “boy” for Timbrel Hogan. And she has a history to remind her why. But when Timbrel, a handler at A Breed Apart, embarks on a mission to detect WMDs in Afghanistan, she reunites with Tony “Candyman” VanAllen and her no-other-man philosophy is challenged. While tension mounts between Timbrel and Tony, the team comes under fire after Beowulf gets a “hit.” When tragedy threatens Tony’s career and Timbrel’s courage, they must maneuver through an intricate plot and a mission like no other. . . .

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

I have really enjoyed Ronie Kendig’s A Breed Apart Series and I will miss the awesome stories of these unusual and amazing heroes! I enjoyed getting to know Candyman and Timbrel more in this book, and I especially loved getting to know Beowulf and following his journey of doing what he does so well! But the main focus for me in this book was the relationship between Candyman and Timbrel. There were so many differences and difficulties between these two, and I was rooting for them to finally find a way to get together.

Before this series I had never heard stories about Military War Dogs, and each story has amazed me in what these animals and their handlers can do. And I really like that Ronie Kendig writes about soldiers that have returned home for various reasons, and what their life was like after returning home. And Ms. Kendig’s writes the stories so well, throughout this series, I really felt like I was reading about the lives of real people. After each book, I felt like I had a new set of friends. As you can see, I loved Beowulf and as well as Trinity and Talon. And if you enjoy military stories, suspense thrillers, or just plain good, clean fiction, you will enjoy Beowulf and the rest of this series.

I received this book from the Barbour Books to read and review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ronie Kendig is an award-winning, bestselling author who grew up an Army brat. After twenty-plus years of marriage, she and her hunky hero husband have a full life with four children and a Maltese Menace in Northern Virginia. Author and speaker, Ronie loves engaging readers through her Rapid-Fire Fiction. Ronie can be found at http://www.roniekendig.com, on Facebook (www.facebook.com/rapidfirefiction), Twitter (@roniekendig), and Goodreads (www.goodreads.com/RonieK).

The Brides of Chance …by Kelly Eileen Hake, Tracey V. Bateman, and Cathy Marie Hake

The Brides of Chance

by Kelly Eileen Hake, Tracey V. Bateman, and Cathy Marie Hake

CHECK OUT THESE AUTHORS BY CLICKING ON THEIR NAME

by Kelly Eileen Hake, Cathy Marie Hake, Tracey V. Bateman

ABOUT THIS BOOK

Savor this delightful collection packed with brothers and brides. The Chance brothers enjoy ranch life in California and are not searching for brides – until brides come to them like damsels in distress, pulling at their tender heartstrings. Will any of the rough-around-the-edges brothers stand a chance of barring their hearts from love as they offer a hand of compassion?

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

 This is a really good read. The six stories in this book is about six orphaned brother who all live in California and even work on the same ranch. Each of the three authors write different stories, with Kelly Hake writing three of the stories, Tracey Bateman writing one, and Cathy Hake writing two of the stories. The neat thing was having all six of the stories about the same brothers. I always love continuing stories, and series, so this was a treat for me.

The six stories in this collection are: One Chance in a Million; Second Chance; Taking a Chance; Last Chance; Chance Adventure and Chance of a Lifetime. Instead of going into each of these, a lot of reviews have them already, I want to just tell you that each of these stories are awesome! Even though the book is pretty large with over 570 pages, and that is for six books! And each one is short, so you don’t have to read the entire book at once. And I love the cover and the ragged edges of the pages. The Brides of Chance makes a wonderful coffee table book because it is so beautiful! I highly recommend this book by these three awesome authors!

I received this book from the Barbour Books to read and review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55

Balanced by Tricia Goyer…Take the 11 day Balance with Tricia Starting now!

Balanced by Tricia Goyer

ABOUT BALANCED

How can a work-at-home mom raise kids, juggle a career and take care of family responsibilities with only 24-hour days? Working at home while raising kids and juggling a career and family responsibilities is no easy feat. Author and homeschooling mom Tricia Goyer shares her tips for finding balance among all your many hats as a mom. Balancing is a process and a journey, one that Tricia herself has yet to perfect. But between writing more than forty books, raising and homeschooling six kids, being a wife, and being active in her community, she has amassed valuable tips she shares in “Balanced.”

The book includes tips on:
—how to create focus themes for your family
—how to prioritize your schedule
—how to utilize your job so it also benefits your kids
—how to keep yourself out of the comparison game
—how to make working at home work for you
—and much more!

Working at home while raising kids and juggling a career and family responsibilities is no easy feat, am I right WAHMs? With three adopted kiddos in our house, I’m beyond busy, between parenting, homeschooling, writing, cooking, doing loads of laundry.

That’s why I compiled my new book, Balanced—to help all you WAHMs learn to balance your many responsibilities. It’s a short ebook that’ll be a quick read and it’s only $2.99 from Amazon and Barnes & Noble (sorry, only available digitally)!

 

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Tricia Goyer is a working mom that has to balance her everyday like between her family and work. She has written this book, Balanced because of trying to balance her time and work and family. There are wonderful tips and ideas in this book. I haven’t read the book yet, I have just purchased my copy so I can follow this challenge with Tricia. If you would like to join in on the challenge too, click on the button in the right sidebar, or at the bottom of this post and it will send you to the right page to get started! I hope I will have a lot of you joining us on this wonderful challenge together. Its a wonderful way to learn how to better live you life, as well as get to know wonderful friends via my blog!

Blessings to you! Joy Hannabass

 

Get Balanced!

An Amish Garden by Beth Wiseman, Kathleen Fuller, Tricia Goyer, and Vannetta Chapman

• An Amish Garden

• By Beth Wiseman, Kathleen Fuller,
• Tricia Goyer, and Vannetta Chapman
• Book Description

“Where Healing Blooms” Vannetta Chapman

Emma discovers a run-away teen in her barn, and the bishop asks her to provide a haven for a woman and her two children. Then her mother-in-law reveals a secret about her garden. Will Emma choose loneliness or learn to accept God’s gifts?

“Flowers for Rachael” Kathleen Fuller

Rachael’s garden is beautiful, but she is lonely. Gideon is in love with Rachael, but when Rachael finds her garden in shambles after a crisis, she rejects his help. Will she realize she doesn’t have to do everything on her own?

“Seeds of Love” Tricia Goyer

When a corporation shows interest in buying Sadie’s heirloom seeds, she panics. They are all she has left of her Dat and Mem. Eli believes he can help Sadie, but a misunderstanding leaves her heartbroken. Will she trust him again, and will the seeds of a new relationship take root?

“Rooted in Love” Beth Wiseman

Rosemary is doing her best to run her family’s household. She excels at all her tasks except one: gardening. Saul has been interested in her for years, but Rosemary has turned him down repeatedly. Saul begins helping with her family’s garden, but someone is sabotaging his efforts-and keeping a secret that could change their lives.

 

MY THOUGHTS ABOUT THIS BOOK

An Amish Garden is special to me because it is a collection of stories written by four of my favorite Amish authors! It is like getting four books in one!! And Each story is wonderful, I can’t pick out a favorite because I love them all! Each story involves a young struggling to find her way in the life she is living in, through following her God. And each one seems to be dealing with loneliness of one kind or another. As with all Amish books, this was a delightful read, and I enjoyed getting another glimpse of the Amish lifestyle. Even in their struggles and difficulties, the calm, plain lifestyle is evident.

If you enjoy Amish stories, you will enjoy An Amish Garden, and you get not one, but four books in one cover. The are short, so you don’t have to read them all at once! But it is also a fast read, I started reading it today when it came in the mail, and finished it at around midnight! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

I received this book from the Booksneeze to read and review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55

The Perfect Score Project by Debbie Stier

The Perfect Score Project

by Debbie Stier 

The Perfect Score Project is an indispensable guide to acing the SAT – as well as the affecting story of a single mom’s quest to light a fire under her teenage son.   It all began as an attempt by Debbie Stier to help her high-school age son, Ethan, who would shortly be studying for the SAT.  Aware that Ethan was a typical teenager (i.e., completely uninterested in any test) and that a mind-boggling menu of test-prep options existed, she decided – on his behalf — to sample as many as she could to create the perfect SAT test-prep recipe.   Debbie’s quest turned out to be an exercise in both hilarity and heartbreak as she took the SAT seven times in one year and in-between “went to school” on standardized testing.  Here, she reveals why the SAT has become so important, the cottage industries it has spawned, what really works in preparing for the test and what is a waste of time.   Both a toolbox of fresh tips and an amusing snapshot of parental love and wisdom colliding with teenage apathy, The Perfect Score Project rivets. In the book Debbie does it all: wrestles with Kaplan and Princeton Review, enrolls in Kumon, navigates khanacademy.org, meets regularly with a premier grammar coach, takes a battery of intelligence tests, and even cadges free lessons from the world’s most prestigious (and expensive) test prep company.   Along the way she answers the questions that plague every test-prep rookie, including: “When do I start?”…”Do the brand-name test prep services really deliver?”…”Which should I go with: a tutor, an SAT class, or self study?”…”Does test location really matter?” … “How do I find the right tutor?”… “How do SAT scores affect merit aid?”… and “What’s the one thing I need to know?”   The Perfect Score Project’s combination of charm, authority, and unexpected poignancy makes it one of the most compulsively readable guides to SAT test prep ever – and a book that will make you think hard about what really matters.

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

Having to take her SATs seven times promoted Debbie Stier  to write this book to help others when they take their SATs. She gives a lot of valuable and informative advise when preparing for these test. You will find out which books to have and what you don’t need, everything from the most simple instruction to the most complex. And I really like the way she handled these instructions, making this book fun and interesting with this not so interesting subject. If you are coming up on taking your SATs or if you are a mom with kids that will be taking them, this is an awesome book for you to go through to make these dreaded test a bit more easier. I encourage you to pick up your copy!

I received this book from the Blogging for Books to read and review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55

 

Distortion by Terri Blackstock from Litfuse and win a Kindle

Distortion

by Terri Blackstock

Juliet Cole’s life has been dismantled by the murder of her husband. She doesn’t know who—or what—to trust when everything she has believed to be true about her marriage has been a lie.

A husband’s lies can have deadly consequences.

When Juliet Cole’s husband of fifteen years is murdered before her eyes, she thinks it was a random shooting. Devastated and traumatized, she answers hours of questioning, then returns home to break the tragic news to her boys. But a threatening voicemail takes this from a random shooting to a planned, deliberate attack.

Juliet realizes that she and her children are in danger too, unless she meets the killers’ demands. But as she and her sisters untangle the clues, her husband’s dark secrets come to light. The more she learns, the more of her life is dismantled. Was her husband an innocent victim or a hardened criminal?

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK

When Juliet Cole’s husband was shot down before her eyes, she wasn’t expecting the dramatic change her life would take because of his death. It seemed that ever hour, and sometimes every minute she was finding out some new and different about him, and none of it was good! She now feared for the life of herself and her two sons because it was clear that none of them were safe. All thanks to Bob’s secret and deceptive life.

When a book has ‘Terri Blackstock’ as the author, I know I am in for a real treat! And Distortion was certainly not a disappointment. This second book in the Moonlighters Series was even better than the first book, and the good thing is that even thought it is a second book in the series, it can easily be read as a stand-a-lone!

This was an awesome read, full of secrets and deception, thrills and excitement, and love and togetherness of family. I enjoyed how Juliet’s family, Michael and Max joined together to help her in everyway possible. And I was kind of excepting a dirty cop somewhere, but I didn’t figure that one out until almost the end. There are so many twists and turns taking place in this story that I was so nervous, and the more nervous I got, the faster I read! This is why Terri Blackstock is on my favorite author’s list, and I have all of her books!

If you enjoy suspense/thrillers full of excitement, tension and entertainment, you will love Distortion. I encourage you to grab your copy today!  I received this book from the publisher Thomas Nelson and Litfuse Publishing Group to read and review.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 55

Pre-order a copy for just $4.99 on Kindle, Nook, iTunes, or the eBook version on CBD until March 10th.

Learn more at Terri’s website.

Terri Blackstock has sold over six million books worldwide and is a New York Times bestselling author. She is the award-winning author of “Intervention,” “Vicious Cycle,” and “Downfall,” as well as such series as Cape Refuge, Newpointe 911, the SunCoast Chronicles, Restoration, and Moonlighters.

Don’t miss Terri Blackstock‘s latest release in the Moonlighters series, Distortion.

AND NOW FOR THE GIVEAWAY

The book releases March 11th, and Terri will be kicking off the release with a fun Facebook Distortion party and giving away a Kindle Fire HDX. PLUS readers can pre-order the ebook for just $4.99 between now and 3/11 everywhere ebooks are sold.

One winner will receive:

• A brand new Kindle Fire HDX
• Distortion and Truth Stained Lies by Terri Blackstock

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 11th. Winner will be announced at the Distortion Facebook Party on March 11th. Connect with Terri for a “suspenseful” book launch party with prizes, a book chat, and more.

 

Don’t miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN on the event page. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 11th!