To Save Her Child by Margaret Daley

Book Description: In Search of Her Son

When a young boy goes missing from wilderness day camp, Alaskan search and rescue worker Josiah Witherspoon is on the case. The brooding ex-marine promises to find the child and return him to his worried mother. But he doesn't know that Ella Jackson has a secret past. One that could put them all in danger. When tensions mount, Ella needs to tell Josiah the truth—but she can't set aside her fears enough to trust him. Ella and Josiah are ready to risk their lives to save her son, but will they risk their hearts, as well?

Alaskan Search and Rescue: Risking their lives to save the day.

My Review: 

To Save Her Child, Alaskan Search Rescue Series by Margaret Daley
Christian Fiction, Suspense
Love Inspired Suspense
ISBN 9780373446483

   Ella Jackson has hidden from her past for the last four years in Alaska. When her young son and two other young boys disappear from Camp Yukon a wilderness camp she wonders if they wandered away or if something more sinister is at play. Josiah Witherspoon is co-owner of Outdoor Alaska and a volunteer at Northern Frontier. He works along with his search and rescue dog Buddy, a black and brown German Sheppard. As an ex-marine he takes on the job of protecting Ella and her son. When a strong friendship develops will the secrets of the past come between them.

   I give To Save Her Child 5 stars. I found it to be filled with faith, had action around every corner and hard to put down. The author Margaret Daley did a magnificent job of bringing the characters to life. I found this book to be well written. It held my attention and had me at the edge of my seat.

   I want to thank the author Margaret Daley and publisher Love Inspired Suspense for bringing good clean Christian books like this one to readers like me. I was provided with this book in exchange for my honest review.  I am so grateful for the authors and publishers generosity.  

 Margaret Daley

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Photos and bood description are from www.barnesandnoble.com

A Robertson Family Christmas

Photo and book description from barnesandnoble.com

Book Description: Hunter Clarke wanted one thing for Christmas: to spend it with his dad and his brother. He misses being included in any guy trips since his parents divorced and he went to live with his mom. So he’s less than happy when his mother tells him that he won a contest to spend Christmas in West Monroe, Louisiana, with a family named the Robertsons. For some reason, they’re supposed to be a big deal. How did he win a contest he didn’t enter? Besides, he’s never heard of them and sure doesn’t want to spend Christmas in a swamp with a bunch of strangers.

   Korie Robertson is excited to open her heart and home to Hunter and show him what the Christmas season looks like for the Robertson family. And like it or not, Hunter experiences it firsthand. From duck-hunting disasters with the bearded guys, to learning to cook with Miss Kay, Hunter quickly discovers what it’s like to live with this boisterous, yet loving family. Putting on his headphones and ignoring them is not an option. Before long, Hunter begins to let his guard down. But with Christmas and the end of his trip fast approaching, will it be too little, too late? Or will Hunter be open to the greatest gift of all? 


My Review: A Robertson Family Christmas by Kay Robertson with Travis Thrasher 
Christian Fiction, Christmas
Tyndale
ISBN 9781414398204

  Hunter Clarke only wanted to spend time with his brother and father but instead he got a once in a life time chance, to spend Christmas with the Robertson family from Duck Commander. He lives with his mom and fills lift out of his brother and fathers lives. He would much rather be home than with a bunch of zany rednecks from Louisiana. He arrives with a chip on his shoulder but leaves with faith, a new understanding and a new outlook on life.

  I found A Robertson Family Christmas to be phenomenal. I give it 5 stars. I have been a huge fan of Duck Dynasty for a long time. So I was familiar with the characters and felt like I knew them. I enjoyed Hunter’s story. It was heart warming and made a great Christmas story. To hear about the real  Christmas traditions of the Robertson’s family was uplifting and at times laugh out loud funny. Miss Kay Robertson and Travis Thrasher did a great job of bringing life and emotion to the characters. I was able to read this book in one sitting. I could not put it down.

  I want to give a high-five to the author Miss Kay Robertson, Travis Thrasher and publisher Tyndale for bringing compelling Christian books that are entertaining and give hope to the reader with stories of faith. The Book Club Network Inc. provided me with this book in exchange for my honest review and I am so grateful for their, the authors and publishers generosity. 

The Uncommon Marriage Adventure by Tony & Lauren Dungy with Nathan Whitaker

The Uncommon Marraige Adventure

 Tony & Lauren Dungy with Nathan Whitaker

Book Description:

An adventure in love . . .
An adventure in faith . . .
An adventure in growing closer to God and each other than ever before.
It all begins here.

Tony and Lauren Dungy invite you to join them in The Uncommon Marriage Adventure, a book of daily reflections for couples based on the eight keys that have carried them through the best and worst of times. Every day you’ll find something to talk about, to pray over, to enjoy together, and to touch your heart. As you read, you’ll celebrate the commitment you’ve made to each other and rediscover the joy in your relationship. Dare to embark on your own marriage adventure—and see, as Tony and Lauren have, that marriage can be deeply, richly, beautifully uncommon. Tyndale House Publishers

Book description and photo from Barnes and Noble

My Review: The Uncommon Marriage Adventure by Tony & Lauren Dungy with Nathan Whitaker 
Tyndale
Marriage / Devotional
ISBN 9781414383729
  I give The Uncommon Marriage Adventure 5 stars. It is well written with life stories from the authors Tony & Lauren Dungy. It is a great tool to help with life, marriage and family life. Each devotion starts with a core principle and a scripture. Their are 96 core principles. The book is divided into 8 key groups that have worked well for them, their life and marriage.  They touch on how the Bible and Christ are living examples on how to live, teamwork, committed love, communication, support and not running from conflict. At the end of each devotion they showed you how to apply the lesson to your life. I really enjoyed this part. On page 8 was a example of how to pray for your wife with scripture from John 3:16. I change it to pray for my hubby and found this to be so humbling. All the examples and prayer ideas are easy to add to your situation, I found them to be easy to use and beneficial. Through out the book there were references to the authors coaching and football career which I am clueless about, but I found they added a humble and honest aspect to their life experiences. They made the book seem more real.
  I want to thank the author Tony & Lauren Dungy and Nathan Whitaker, the publisher Tyndale for providing me with this book in exchange for my honest review.  I am so grateful for their generosity. 

You can find this book at Barnes and Noble and Amazon.
Check out the author's at:
 Facebook.com
Coach Dungy's Blog
Dungy Family Foundation
http://tyndalerewards.com/ 

Miracle at Coffeeville and other legends of Christmas by Darrell Case

Book Description:

If you're like me, you love the season of Christmas. The festive atmosphere, the tree, the gifts, the feasting, the songs. People seem to be kinder to each other. There are gatherings with family and friends. However, there is a danger. We can become so wrapped up in the celebration that we forget the true meaning of Christmas. That Christ came to provide for us eternal life. That the babe in the manger was just a prelude to The Savoir on the cross.

It is my hope this little book will help you recapture the joy of the season. May God bless you and may you have a wonderful Christmas.

Angel's Dust

For postal worker Jeff Marlow, Christmas is just another time to relive the heartache of losing his wife and daughter. It will all end tonight but then he finds a letter from a lonely little girl. She asks Santa Claus for only one gift. Can Jeff overcome his pain and fulfill her wish?

A Gathering of Angels

Book description and photo from barnesandnoble

Bessie's life seems to consist of nothing more than existence. Stuck in a nursing home, Christmas has lost its meaning to her. Bitter and resentful, she takes it out on those trying to help. However, God isn't through with Bessie. He shows her the meaning of Love Thy Neighbor.
The Christmas Mirror
Steven and Mandy have a matchless love. They fell in love in kindergarten and as husband and wife, their love for each other has grown ever deeper. She promises to spend each Christmas Eve with him yet a few days before Christmas, Mandy is taken ill and dies. Can the love she had for Steven transcend even death? Will her love shine through the Christmas mirror?

Miracle at Coffeeville
The people of Coffeeville are barely surviving the Great Depression. When it seems nothing worse can happen, Samuel Owens takes over the bank. His hostility and resentment causes him to oppress the destitute. He unmercifully forecloses on their farms and businesses with the only alternative being to come work for him at starvation wages. The people of Coffeeville pray for a miracle. Will God answer in time? How can He change the heart of one so wrapped up in hatred?
Snow Angels
Abigail loves her little brother 'Buddy' yet sometimes he is an irritation. When he accidentally dies, she blames herself. Believing Christ can raise him from the dead, she risks her life in a blizzard. Her father and the men of their church search for her but will they find her in time or will there be two caskets to bury?
Music of the Night
Music is Ruth's life. When arthritis destroys her gift, she applies for a job as a janitor. Now she is cleaning the very theater where she once performed. Hiding in the shadows, she waits until the others leave, then with twisted fingers, she begins to play. With her hands aching but with joy in her heart, she plays the music of her childhood. Christmas is a time of miracles and God has one for Ruth.
Apples of Gold
Denver and Anna have a secret. For years, they have lived in a small cabin in the woods. On Christmas Eve, they revealed their secret to my wife and me. What they tell us changed our lives and the lives of others. Tonight we found out that we really didn't know them at all. Soon we discovered how much God truly loves us.

My Review: Miracle at Coffeeville and other legends of Christmas by Darrell Case
Christian Fiction, Christmas
ISBN 9781502402332
  I found this book to pull at the heart stings and show what the true meaning of what Christmas really means. The book is composed of seven short stories that are sure to help recapture the joy of the Christmas season. I give Miracle at Coffeeville and other legends of Christmas 5 stars. It is a great Christmas read. Darrell Case did a wonderful job putting these legends together.  I especially enjoyed Angel’s Dust. It really touched me and showed the true spirit of Christmas and humanity.
  I want to thank the author Darrell Case and publisher for providing me with this book in exchange for my honest review. 

A Path Made Plain, Seasons in Pinecraft Series by Lynette Sowell

Photo from Barnes and Noble

Book description from www.barnesandnoble:

Betsy Yoder lives with her great aunt in Sarasota’s Pinecraft neighborhood, far from her family in Ohio. Heartbroken by a man who left her—and the Order—to marry someone else, Betsy instead pours her time and energy into her bakery, offering the village of Pinecraft delicious desserts from her Amish heritage, and is content in her hard-working yet peaceful life.

Enter the formerly Amish Thaddeus Zook, a pastry chef who has moved to Pinecraft after working in restaurants among the Englisch. While Betsy nurses a hesitant heart, Thaddeus shows a similar hesitancy about rejoining an Amish community. Though neither can deny the attraction between them, Thaddeus is hiding a past that could threaten their future together. Betsy has lost one love already; dare she risk loving another who has adopt Englisch ways? Or will Thad listen to the call of the open road and move on again . . . without the love of his life?

My Review: A Path Made Plain, Seasons in Pinecraft Series by Lynette Sowell
Abingdon Press
Amish, Mennonite, Christian Fiction
ISBN 9781426753657
   I really enjoyed this 5 star book. I found it to be refreshing, heartwarming and a great example of what it takes to live the life of faith. The author Lynette Sowell did an outstanding job of bringing life and excitement to the characters. It was well written with many examples of what life is like when you dedicate yourself to live a life filled with higher moral and faith filled standards.
  Betsy Yoder is recovering from a broken heart. She pores her heart into her new bakery. Working hard to bring desserts from her Amish heritage to the village of Pinecraft and prove to her family that she can succeed. Former Amish pastry chef Thaddeus Zook is hiding from his past. He has lived as a Englisher and as Amish, his heart loves both worlds. He turns to his grandmother for a safe refuge until he came get his life in order. There he meets Betsy Yoder and sparks fly. They fight their attraction until his past catches up with him and Betsy is kidnapped to get at him. He must now decide what is most important the Amish life, the English and how does Betsy fit in. I loved this book. It can be read as a stand alone but is book 2 of the Seasons in Pinecraft Series. I have read book 1, A Season of Change and loved it also. 
  I want to thank the author Lynette Sowell and publisher Abingdon Press for bringing good clean Christian books like this one to readers like me. I was provided with this book in exchange for my honest review.

You might want to read Book 1 

Find the Author Lynette Sowell at  her blog, Facebook, The Suspense Sisters Blog
You can buy her books at Amazon and Barnes and Noble Photo from Barnes and Noble

Hawk by Ronnie Kendig

Photo from www.barnesandnoble.com

Hawk, Book 2 The Quite Professionals by Ronnie Kendig 
ISBN 9781624163180
Christian Fiction, Military, Suspense
  Staff Sergeant Brian “Hawk” Bledsoe comes to Fekiria Haidary’s aide and ends up in jail for his trouble with his military career on the line. Fekiria is an Afghan pilot, hiding the truth about her life from everyone. She has defied her father and brother by joining the AAF and studying to be a pilot. She has disdain for Americans but is slowly coming around. They are thrown together after she accidentally bombs his team. They are on the run from the Taliban and Chinese. Their lives and the lives of the children in her friends care are on the line. His team is in jeopardy as they are targets and their communications are compromised.
  This story is sure to keep you at the edge of your seat,  it is action packed and intense. The author did a great job of developing characters they are multi-dimensional and passionate. Faith is a strong aspect of this story. With characters sold out for Jesus, some questioning their beliefs and searching for answers. I enjoyed the faith aspect of Hawk. But you better duck because the bullets are flying.
  Hawk is book two in The Quite Professionals Series. I enjoyed it and had no problem following even though I have not read book one, Raptor 6. I give this book 4 stars and think all suspense and military lovers will really enjoy Hawk. I was very upset with the ending, I feel I was left hanging. So I guess I will be reading Book 3, Falcon to see what happened.
  I want to thank the author Ronie Kendig and publisher Shiloh for bringing good clean, compelling Christian books that are entertaining and give hope to the reader with stories of faith.  I would also like to thank The Book Club Network Inc. for providing me with this book in exchange for my honest review. 

Back cover from www.christianbook.com

A Question of Destiny by Anita Higman

Book description and photo from Amazon.

A Question of Destiny

 

Publication Date: October 29, 2014

 

Lucy O’Brien is about to be given ten millions dollars and a chance to live a life she never imagined. Will this new found wealth be Lucy’s undoing, or can she rise above the temptations within high society and choose to become a nobler version of herself? And will the solitary Andrew Whitfield—a man who watches over Lucy as she adapts to her new lifestyle—cause her to close the door on her dreams or be the key that opens the rest of Lucy’s destiny?

My review:  A Question of Destiny by Anita Higman 

Contemporary, Christian, Romance

 They say your life can change in a second. Lucy and her boyfriend are waking down the street when they see an elderly woman being robbed. She takes off after the robber while her boyfriend tucks tail and runs for the hills. For humble Lucy O’Brien her good deed turned into a 10 million dollar reward. Her destiny is forever changed. 

   Ian a multimillionaire decides to reward Lucy for her good deed and her service to the community. But he has an ulterior motive. He would love nothing more than to play match maker to his friend and personal assistant Andy. Andy has been Ian’s loyal employee, friend and like a son to him. He would do anything to help Ian. So when he is asked to be a mentor of sorts to Lucy of coarse he say‘s yes. Lucy had no idea how crazy her life will become. She now has a choice as to her destiny. 

   Faith is interwoven through this fantastic story.  She can chose forgiveness, restoration of family, and love. She also has the chance to bless others or spend it on herself. I highly recommend this novel; it is well worth your time. 

   Wow another 5 star book by Anita Higman. A Question of Destiny is a fun and fast paced read. The author has done a great job of making this light read entertaining. It is well written with characters you are sure to fall in love with. I am hoping there is a sequel to follow. 

   I want to give a high-five to the author Anita Higman and publisher for bringing compelling Christian books that are entertaining and give hope to the reader with stories of faith. I was provided with this book in exchange for my honest review and I am so grateful the authors and publishers generosity. 

The author has graciously answered a few questions about 

A Question of Destiny 

Can you tell me a little bit about your novel A Question of Destiny?

I'd be happy to. It's basically rags to riches story with a few surprises along the way.

 Here's a short blurb to give you a few more details.

 Lucy O'Brien is about to be given $10 million and a chance to live a life she never imagined. Will this new found wealth be Lucy's undoing, or can she rise above the temptations within high society and choose to become a nobler version of herself? And will the solitary Andrew Whitfield- a man who watches over Lucy as she adapts to the new lifestyle- cause her to close the door on her dreams or be the key that opens the rest of Lucy's  destiny?

How did you come up with this story? 

I've always thought the rags-to-riches concept was fascinating. There's so much ready-made conflict. Even though we've been told by the world that to receive a windfall would be an idyllic situation, in reality, a lot can go wrong. You can truly lose your way. In life, love, faith. Everything. Since a writer needs a lot of conflict to keep those lovely readers turning the pages, I thought this would be a good place a good plot element to add to the love story.

In A Question of Destiny you have the hero loving the city while the heroine loves the country, and it becomes a sticky point between them. Where did you get your inspiration for this conflict? 

I suppose both of these viewpoints are inside me. I grew up on a farm, but I now live near Houston. I love the city and and the country equally, and so does my husband. So, we are building our retirement home in the country, but because of the soon-to-be-built freeway nearby, we will have access to the city. But I won't tell you how my heroine and hero work out this intense disagreement!

What is the farthest place from home you've ever been? 

Melbourne, Australia. I loved it there. It's such a beautiful and fascinating city. So much so, I set part of a novel there, which was entitled, Winter in Full Bloom. I'd love to go back to Australia someday, but it's expensive, and it's a very, very long flight!

Want to share one of your dreams? 

I would love to have one of my books made into a movie. Right now two of  my novels are optioned for movies, so I'm hoping something exciting will transpire from that.

How long have you know that you wanted to be a writer? 

Growing up I dreamed of telling stories. When I was very young I started working on a novel about a man from Mars who wanted to go to college in New York. I never finished that novel, but it left an impression on me. I knew deep down that writing was my dream, even though I didn't get around to fulfilling it until I was in my thirties.

What do you hope your readers will come away with after reading one of your novels? 

I would love for them to be inspired, challenged, and entertained. If I accomplish even one of these things I would feel my writing time wasn't wasted.

If you could have dinner with two well-known people, who would they be? 

Josh Groban, because his music inspires me and Leif Enger, because I love the way he writes.

Is there something about you most people wouldn't know?

 I love licorice ice cream, but it's rare find.

Any advice for new readers? 

My advice would be, "Don't rush the process. Take your time. Read and learn about the craft, network, and attend conferences. Start a blog, and following your own unique voice. Be faithful to your stories and write every day. If you really have a passion for writing, you won't fine my suggestions to be punishment – but a pleasure."

How can your readers connect with you?

 I would love for you to visit my website at Anita Higman.com and connect with me through the "Contact Me" button, or you can go to my FaceBook Reader Page.

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Trails & Targets, Dangerous Darlyns Series by Kelly Eileen Hake

Photo from Barnes & Noble

 

Back Cover:  A Darlyn in Distress
Beatrix Darlyn holds her family together. Plentiful prayers and unconventional interests enliven hard work on the family farm, but talent with a trigger won’t pay her father’s debts. For the sake of her three sisters, Bea pushes her pride aside to take a leap of faith.

A Reluctant Rescuer
Greyson Wilder can’t outrun the pain of his past—but he does his best to bury it. A man who’s outlived all his loved ones can’t find a better business than selling the skeletons of slaughtered buffalo. There’s no one to care for, but no one to disappoint—until a sharpshooting farm girl waylays him with an irresistible offer.

An Unlikely Partnership
When their plans go awry, Greyson finds himself saddled with the sisters, who surprising skills might be the ticket to surviving the Wild West. Whether it’s trick shots or throwing knives, these women aim to succeed and never miss a target. Can Greyson convince Bea to set her sights on him, or will they both miss their shot at love?

 

My Review: 

Trails & Tangles, Book 1 of the Dangerous Darlyns series by Kelly Eileen Hake
Shiloh Run Press
ISBN 9781628367720
Christian Fiction, Historical, Western Romance

  The Darlyns are four bachrlorette’s, that live with their ill father in the Old West. He has taught them to take care of themselves. They can out shoot, throw a knife, ride and rope better than any of the men around. They are also smart, quick witted and great cooks. Beatrix “Bea” being the oldest tries to keep everyone in line and take care of her family. Bea is being harassed by the town bully. When Grayson runs into Bea and her sister in town he comes to their rescue. He follows them home for a thank you dinner and stays for an extended period of time. Can Grey help save her family home and win Bea’s heart? Well you will have to read this wonderful four star book to find out.
  Kelly Eileen Hake did a great job of bringing life to the characters. They were adventurous, witty and strong women of noble character and faith. I give Trails & Tangles 4 stars.
  Quote: “ The Dalyns would stand out in any setting, but Grey couldn’t help thinking they’d find more acceptance and appreciation in a larger, more diverse town. Not that they showed any indication to leave. Drought and debt inspired redoubled efforts,  not despair. Their crops might fail but Darlyn roots ran too deep for them to seek out greener pastures elsewhere.
  Impractical, but understandable. When they’d cut a road into a ravine and coaxed crops from a dry stream bed, they’d build more than a farm. They carved a place for themselves amid the unforgiving plains, a home so cozy that even Grey fought a reluctance to leave.” 
  I want to thank the author Kelly Eileen Hake and publisher Shiloh Run Press for bringing good clean Christian books like this one to readers like me. I would also like to thank The Book Club Network Inc. for providing me with this book in exchange for my honest review. 

Barnes & Noble.com

Author Kelly Eileen Hake

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The Bachelor Book 2 of Plain City Peace series by Stephanie Reed

Photo from barnesandnoble.com

My Review:  The Bachelor Book Two of Plain City Peace Series by Stephanie Reed
Kregel Publications
ISBN 9780825442162
Amish, Christian Fiction

  The Bachelor is set in 1970’s around the Vietnam war and draft. Bestie Troyer lives in Plain City where she is raising her two younger siblings and taking care of a English girl. Her biggest prayer is for her parents and aunt to return to Amish life. They left the Amish life to live out their new-found faith in Jesus. Bestie is promised to Charley but has a intense friendship with Englisher Michael.  Among much confusion she has to decide who to give her heart to and which faith she will follow.
  The author Stephanie Reed did a great job explaining salvation in this story. I really enjoyed learning how the Amish and English view faith and salvation. It was an eye opening experience to see the contrast of faith between Bestie who is Amish and Englisher Sheila. They both had such strong beliefs. The Bachelor is book 2 in Plain City Peace series but it stands alone. I have not read the first book The Bargain but after enjoying this one so much I will.
  I loved this fast paced Amish novel. It was thought provoking, well written and filled with faith. I give The Bachelor 5 stars. And a high-five to the author Stephanie Reed and publisher Kregel Publications for bringing compelling Christian books that are entertaining and give hope to the reader with stories of faith. The Book Club Network Inc. provided me with this book in exchange for my honest review and I am so grateful for their, the authors and publishers generosity.  

Who is Jesus by Mary Ann Diorio

Photo from Barnes & Noble

Back Cover: WHO IS JESUS? presents a biblical picture of our Savior in a way that will help your child recognize Him as Love Personified. Little children will come to know Jesus as the essence of all that is good, holy, and true. As you read this book to your children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, or students, the will learn that Jesus Christ cares about them and loves them with a perfect love.

My Review: Who Jesus Is? By MaryAnn Diorio TBN
Top Notch Press
ISBN 9780930037154
Christian Fiction, Children
  Ever child I know asks a bunch of questions. This book has the answer to who is Jesus. The author MaryAnn Diorio answers the tough question with everyday situations of will Jesus love me when I do wrong, does He love me when I hurt or cry, and does He love me when I can’t see Him. She includes a scripture to each question and an illustrated picture. I read this book to my grandchildren and they loved it. It was written in a way that a 2 yr old, 5 yr old and 8 yr old could understand it. The illustrations really caught their attention and helped them to understand better. They give this book 5 stars.
  I want to thank the author MaryAnn Diorio and publisher Top Notch Press for bringing good  Christian books like this one to the youngest readers. I would also like to thank The Book Club Network Inc. for providing me with this book in exchange for my honest review. 

Mary Ann Diorio

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Treacherous Tart by Ellie Grant

Photo from Barnes & Noble

Back Cover: Festive pastries are flying off the shelves at Pie in the Sky, where Maggie Grady and her Aunt Clara sell the best desserts in Durham, North Carolina. Yet it;s not the tantalizing scents of cinnamon and nutmeg in the air, for murder is on the menu too...

 As Christmas approaches, Aunt Clara's love life is heating up. Maggie likes seeing her beloved partner-in-pie happy with her new beau, Donald Wickerson- until Maggie's own boyfriend, local reporter Ryan Summerour, discovers that several of Donald's wealthy exes met with unfortunate "accidents."

  Is Clars's boyfriens just looking to fatten his bank account? Before Maggie ca discover, a dying Donaldstumbles into Pie in the Sky. The way to a man's heart may be through his stomach, but someone found a handgun more effective. Even worse, Clara-who was out back feeding a stray cat at the time- had motive, means, and no human witnesses. 

  To clear Clara's name, Maggie and Ryan start sifting through suspects. Could the murderer be one of Donald's numerous former in-laws, or an emitted flame? And can Maggie find the culprit before the killer serves up a second helping?

My Review: Treacherous Tart, Pie in the Sky Mystery by Ellie Grant
Pocket Books
Christmas, Cozy Mystery
ISBN 9781451689563
   Donald Wickerson has had six wealthy wives die suspiciously. Now he has his eyes set on Aunt Clara, one of the owners of Pie in the Sky. He walks into the pie shop, calls out to Aunt Clara and drops dead. Who might have killed him? It could be any number of people that he has taken advantage of or maybe one of the many ladies he is dating. Maggie and Ryan are determined not to allow Aunt Clara to take the fall for a crime they know she could not commit. They are doing their best to keep her out of the big house while creating new pies and keeping the newspaper afloat. Aunt Clara insists that they are wrong about her beloved.
   Aunt Clara’s story is filled with vibrant and spirited characters. They bring life and laughter to this novel. The author Ellie Grant did a great job with the storyline and plot it was well written. There is action, laughter and cats, you could not ask for a better lineup unless you add pie, which she has. Treacherous Tart’s is a fun, fast paced and clean read. I recommend it to anyone that enjoys cozy mysteries. I give it 5 stars.
Quote: “Freeze it? Bite your tongue, Maggie Grady! Frozen crust never tastes the same. I thought I taught you better than that.”
There are worse crimes than using frozen crust….
  I want to thank the author Ellie Grant and publisher Pocket Books for bringing good clean  books like this one to readers like me. I was provided with this book in exchange for my honest review. 

Ellie Grant

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Christmas at Rose Hill Farm, A Amish Love Story by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Photo & Overview from Barnes and Noble

Overview of book: Bess found herself remembering what Billy had looked like as a young man of eighteen. He was still every bit as gloriously handsome as he had always been--but the roguish twinkle in his eyes was gone. His face was drawn tighter than the lids of Mammi's rose petal jam jars. It seemed as if he could barely tolerate being here, as if she and all of Stoney Ridge were nothing but a great inconvenience to him.

Then why was he here?

The rose, of course, which gave her a small measure of comfort. The Billy Lapp she once knew would go to any length for a rose.

My Review:  Christmas at Rose Hill Farm, An Amish Love Story by Suzanne Woods Fisher
Revell
Christian Fiction, Amish, Christmas, Romance
ISBN 9780800721930
  Years ago Billy Lapp fled town, hurting and wondering if anyone truly loved or believed in him. Bess Riehl for years has carried the torch for him but has accepted he is not returning. Newly engaged and questioning her choice she prepares for her wedding. When a old rose is found at Rose Hill Farm’s she and her father turn to Penn State University for answers to it’s identity. Billy is the rose expert sent by the college. As they research and wait for the rose to bloom love is in the air.
   I feel a little in love with the character George. The author kept me guessing to the very end about this hobo. Was he a hobo, a drifter or someone much, more important?  He brought the element of faith alive. I enjoyed how he made the scriptures come alive with a new deeper understanding. Overall there was a feeling of that God is faithful even when we are not.
   Quote: “ The rose. This elusive, mysterious rose. With a practiced eye, Bess gathered every detail about the rose, confidant that the same thoughts were being cataloged in Billy’s mind: class of Gallicas; a large, dramatic bloom of pink-mauve color, packed with petals; deeply fragrant. What couldn’t be described was why it was the most important rose in the world. This rose had brought Billy Lapp home.”
  By far Christmas at Rose Hill Farm is my favorite novel by Suzanne Woods Fisher. It turned out to be so much more than a Christmas story. I highly recommend this 5 star book. The characters were well developed and thought out. There’s no way not to fill their pain and joy.
   I want to give a high-five to the author Suzanne Woods Fisher and publisher Revell for bringing compelling Christian books that are entertaining and give hope to the reader with stories of faith. I was provided with this book in exchange for my honest review and I am so grateful for the authors and publishers generosity.  

Suzanne Woods Fisher

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At Bluebonnet Lake by Amanda Cabot

Picture & Back Cover Description from www.barnesandnoble.com

Back Cover: Her life is set to warp speed. His is slowing to a crawl. But love has its own timing.

Marketing maven Kate Sherwood's world is fast-paced, challenging, and always changing. The last thing she wants to do is grind to a halt at Rainbow's End, a dilapidated resort in the Texas Hill Country. Still, she cannot deny her ailing grandmother's request to visit the place where she and her deceased husband spent one glorious week fifty years ago. There, Kate meets Greg, who appears to be the resort's unassuming handyman. But there's more to Greg than meets the eye--billions more, in fact. 

Kate isn't looking for romance, but she can't deny the sparks of attraction that fly every time she and Greg are together. Could there be a future there? Or will Kate's long-sought promotion take her back to the big city?

Amanda Cabot invites you to step into a place away from the pressures of the day. You might be surprised by what you find at Rainbow's End.

My Review: At Bluebonnet Lake, Book 1 in Texas Crossroads Series by Amanda Cabot
Revell
Christian Fiction, Contemporary, Romance
ISBN 9780800734343

  Advertising executive and workaholic Kate Sherwood has taken a month off at her grandmother’s request. They return to Rainbow’s End at Bluebonnet Lake. The place Sally Fuller and her beloved husband had spent one magnificent vacation. Rainbow’s End is nothing like the glamorous place her grandmother remembers, it’s falling down and in disrepair. There they meet Greg Vange and Roy Gordon, sparks fly and love is in the air for both grandmother and granddaughter. 

   Quote “ Kate looked around her room, them walked into the living room and performed the same inspection. No phones, not even a phone jack. She hadn’t been surprised by the absence of a television. The brochure had claimed that was one of Rainbow’s End’s advantages, a way of helping guests enjoy the natural beauty of the Hill Country without unnecessary distractions. Kate could live without a TV. But cell service was a totally different story. She needed, she absolutely needed, to be able to connect.”

   At Bluebonnet Lake is a fresh story of transformation and change. It is as laid back as it’s Texas Hill Country it is set in. The story is well written with admirable characters. The author Amanda Cabot did a great job of giving life and faith to the characters. I recommend this novel to anyone seeking a laid back love story, it that calls for you to sit back , relax and enjoy a cool glass of sweet tea while reading. I give At Bluebonnet Lake 4 stars. 

   I want to thank the author Amanda Cabot and publisher Revell for bringing good clean Christian books like this one to Christian readers like me. I was provided with this book in exchange for my honest review.  

Amanda Cabot

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The Christmas Cat by Melody Carlson

Photo and Back Cover from Barnes and Noble

 Back Cover: He felt his face flushing as Cara opened the door. Wearing a garnet-colored knit dress and with her dark hair pinned up, she looked even prettier than he remembered. Suddenly he wished he'd thought to bring a hostess gift. Like a cat.


My review: The Christmas Cat Melody Carlson
Revell
Christian Fiction, Contemporary
ISBN 9780800719661

Not long after serving in the missionary field of Uganda, Garrison Brown has losses his grandmother. He is now in charge of finding good homes for her 6 beloved cats. Only problem is he is highly allergic and dislikes cat’s. His grandmother once teased him asking if he had traveled halfway across the globe just to escape her furry felines. Viola was the top cat but was slightly moody, Rusty was easy going and was the clown cat, Spooky was very moody and anti social, Oreo was black & white, Muzzy was very vocal and her favorite Harry was a Maine Coon that looked like a raccoon. Finding homes for them should have been easy except for her specific stipulation for each cats new home. I fell head over heels in love with these cats and their sweet story.

Quote “ He smiled at Garrison. “and you can have the pleasure of playing Santa Claus.”

The Author Melody Carlson’s love for cats really shined in this cat tail. You can’t help but fall for the feline characters especially Harry. I really enjoyed the love Garrison’s grandmother had for her beloved furry children and the extent she went for their well being.

I want to thank the author Melody Carlson and publisher Revell for bringing clean, fun Christian books like this one to readers like me. I was provided with this book in exchange for my honest review.

Melody Carlson

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Trading Secrets by Melody Carlson

 

                     Picture's from www.melodycarlson.com/
Back Cover: The truth may set you free --- but it might also land you in some uncomfortably hot water.

   Over the years, Micah Knight has exchanged many letters---and many secrets---with her longtime Amish pen pal, Zach. But Micah's kept quite on the biggest secret of all---the fact that despite her name, she's a girl.
   Now Micah finally has to meet her pen pal face-to-face, She wants nothing more than to experience life on Zach's Amish farm, but she more than a little anxious. Will he be angry at her for deceiving him all these years? And will she risk losing his friendship to find something more?

My Review: Trading Secrets by Melody Carlson, Revell

Teen Fiction, Amish, Romance

ISBN 9780800722272

Micah Knight and Zach have been pen pals every since her 5^th grade teacher gave an writing assignment 6 years ago. They have become great friends and have helped each other through some difficult times. Now Zach is on his rum spring and would like to visit Micah. His father will not allow it because of planting, so Micah volunteers to go and help. The only problem is Zach and everyone else think she is a boy. She shows up on the farm dressed as a boy but soon confesses she is not.

Quote: “Zach is absolutely certain that I’m a boy, Lizzie! For more than six years he has completely believed my little myth. This whole time he’s been writing me--- conversing with me like I’m his best friend --- like I’m a boy.”

I really enjoyed watching feelings develop between these two but also enjoyed the way Zach dealt with his struggle about leaving or staying Amish. The author Melody Carlson did a great job of bringing the characters to life. I enjoyed the comparison of the English lifestyle to the Amish lifestyle. The storyline was portrayed in a believable way a normal teen would question life and faith. The struggle to do right or wrong was well played out. I enjoyed this teen fiction and had no problem reading it as an adult. I highly recommend this 5 star book to teen and adults. This is a book, I can be proud to pass to a teen in my life knowing that it is a great clean read. I hope to the author continues their story. I would love to hear the rest of the story.

I want to give a high-five to the author Melody Carlson and publisher Revell for bringing compelling Christian books that are entertaining and give hope to the reader with stories of faith for both teens and adults. I was provided me with this book in exchange for my honest review and I am so grateful for the authors and publishers generosity.

Picture and description from www.melodycarlson.com

Another Great book by Melody Carlson

 

My Amish Boyfriend

Sixteen-year-old Shannon McNamara has exciting plans for the summer, and she can't wait to get to them. Unbeknown to her, however, her widowed and ailing mother has plans of her own--to relocate them both to the heart of Amish country in Ohio where she has relatives who can look after her. Shannon quickly learns that living a "simple" life is actually a lot of hard work. But when a hot young Amish guy named Ezra enters the picture, she's ready to get an Amish makeover and even consider making it a permanent change. But does Ezra share her attraction? Will Shannon really make the jump into this new way of life? And will it be for the right reasons?

 

 

 

 

Melody Carlson                                                                             Facebook

The Yuletide Rescue by Margaret Daley

Alaskan Search & Rescue

Risking Their lives to save the day!!

Back cover & Photo from Barnes & Noble

 

Back Cover: MISTLETOE & MURDER

  When Dr. Bree Mathison's plane plummets into the Alaskan wilderness at Christmastime, she is torn between grief and panic. With the pilot—her dear friend—dead and wolves circling, she struggles to survive. Search and Rescue leader David Stone fights his way through the elements to save her. David suspects the plane crash might not have been an accident, spurring Bree's sense that she's being watched. But why is someone after her? Suddenly Bree finds herself caught in the middle of a whirlwind of secrets during the holiday season. With everyone she cares about most in peril, Bree and her promised protector must battle the Alaskan tundra and vengeful criminals to make it to the New Year.

My Review: The Yuletide Rescue, Alaskan Search & Rescue by Margaret Daley

Love Inspired Suspense

Suspense, Romance, Christian Fiction

ISBN 97803736377

   As Dr. Bree Mathinson returns home with family friend and pilot Jeremiah, he suffers a heart attack and crashes the plane. Alone in the Alaskan wilderness, to face subzero temps and a pack of wolves, Bree fights to survive. David Stone with Northern Frontier Search and Rescue Organization races to her rescue. As they are leaving the crash site armed men descend upon the plane. Later the plane is stolen and Bree’s home and office are trashed and searched. Her friend and coworker is kidnapped. Bree’s quite life is in turmoil. Her heart is broken over the death of a friend and the unknown about his life.

Quote, “What were you up to Jeremiah?

Where did the money come from?

Why are people after me?”

   The author Margaret Daley did an outstanding job of intertwining faith into this action packed suspense book. The characters were well developed and believable. The storyline is well thought out, fast paced and jam-packed with action. I give The Yuletide Rescue 5 stars and highly recommend this faith filled book. I really enjoy this book and many others by this author.

   I want to thank the author Margaret Daley and publisher Love Inspired Suspense for bringing good clean Christian books like this one to readers like me. I was provided with this book in exchange for my honest review.

Margaret Daley

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Running Lean by Diana L. Sharples



Photo from http://dianasharples.com/

 

Book Description from Back Cover:

Equilibrium.

That’s what Stacey and Calvin found in each other. He is as solid as his beloved vintage motorcycle and helps quiet the constant clamor in Stacey’s mind. She is a passionate, creative spirit—and a lifeline after Calvin’s soldier brother dies.

But lately the balance is off. Calvin’s grief is taking it's toll. Voices of self-loathing are dominating Stacey’s life. When struggles with body image threaten her health, Calvin can’t bear to lose another person that he loves. Taking action may destroy their relationship, but the alternative could be much more costly.

 



My review: Running Lean by Diana L. Sharples

Teen Fiction, Christian, romance, anorexic

ISBN 9780310734970

Teens Stacey and Calvin are high school sweethearts dealing with some very serious problems, anorexia and the death of a sibling. Calvin’s older brother died in Afghanistan and Stacey is hiding a life-threatening secret of her own. Stacey helps Calvin to deal with the death of his beloved brother. As time goes on Calvin realizes Stacey has a problem and try’s to help her. He is understanding, compassionate, sensitive and tries not make things worst. Farmer boy as Stacey’s BFF calls him is a great boyfriend and would be any girls dream.

I found this book to be intense and heartbreaking at times. It was very informative about anorexia. The characters were well thought out, real, like any teen you might meet on the street or the kid next door. I found their pain to be real, they were emotional and had me take a hard look at someone I care about that suffers from anorexia. The author Diana L. Shaples gave great insight into the life an anorexia and the worry it causes those that care about them. She handled a sensitive subject with compassion and sensitivity of someone that may have lived with this. I give 5 stars to Running Lean and highly recommend it. I can’t wait for other family members read it to see how it effects them.

I want to give a high-five to the author Diana L. Sharples and publisher Blink for bringing compelling Christian books that are entertaining and give hope to the reader with stories of faith. The Book Club Network Inc. provided me with this book in exchange for my honest review and I am so grateful for their, the authors and publishers generosity. 

Diana L. Sharples

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Chapel Springs Revival by Ane Mullgan

Photo from http://www.anemulligan.com/

Book Description from Back Cover: Everybody in the small town of Chapel Springs, Georgia, knows best friends Claire Bennett and Patsy Kowalski. It's impossible not to, what with Claire's zany antics and Patsy's self-appointed mission to keep her friend out of trouble. And trouble abounds.

During an early morning discussion at Dees 'n' Doughs bakery with their ladies group, all Chapel Springs entrepreneurs, attention is drawn to the slackened tourist trade. With their livelihoods threatened, they join forces to address the town's revitalization in hopes of drawing back the tourists. No one could have guessed the real issue needing restoration is their marriages.

Claire, a pottery artist, stumbles through life, usually with her foot in her mouth. When she became a Christian, she thought life and her marriage would be included in the new creation part. But her thighs are just as big and her husband, Joel, is as ornery as ever. She's become nothing more than a sheet-changer, a towel-folder, a pancake-flipper. Her life is just humdrum and she's tired of being taken for granted.

Patsy has plans for her empty nest, plans that include a cruise ship. However, her husband, Nathan, continues to work long hours, and he's not talking about slowing down. In fact, he's not talking much at all. She's asleep long before he comes home each night. At first she thought it was just because of tax season, but now she's not so sure. Something other than work seems to keep him late at the office every night. With the lines of communication closed, she'll have to find another way to reach him.

With their marriages as much in need of restoration as the town, Claire and Patsy embark on a mission of mishaps and miscommunication, determined to restore warmth to Chapel Springs —and their lives. That is if they can convince their husbands and the town council, led by two curmudgeons who would prefer to see Chapel Springs left in the fifties and closed to traffic.



 

My review: Chapel Springs Revival by Ane Mulligan

Christian, Humorous

ISBN: 9781941103418

Quote “With fiends like Claire, you need a gurney, a mop, and a guardian angel.”

Best friends Claire Bennett and Pasty Kowalski live in Chapel Springs, Georgia. With the help of entrepreneurs in the community they try to revive their tired little town and restore their marriages. As they make changes to improve their town and marriages they stumble from one hilarious situation to another. I found the antics of Claire to be quite funny. I especially laughed when she fell in an open grave and had to be rescued. It seems that life around Claire was anything but boring. She was always in need of rescuing and often it was her buddy Pasty giving her a helping hand. If there was one thing to take away from this fascinating story it would be communication is everything. I give this comical story 4 stars and highly recommend it. The author Ane Mulligan did a great job of filling her characters with animation, joy and laughter. I can only wonder how much come from real life, because you really can not make some of this up. This was my first book I read by her but I can not wait to find another.

I want to give a high-five to the author Ane Mulligan and Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolines for bringing compelling Christian books that are entertaining and bring laughter to the reader with stories of faith. The Book Club Network Inc. provided me with this book in exchange for my honest review and I am so grateful for their, the authors and publishers generosity.

Ane Mulligan

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