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Thursday, September 29, 2016


TELL ME EVERYTHING by JASON C. HELVESTON

This was a very intriguing book for me to read. Like the author, my dad was a pastor . I remember growing up thinking and was told that I had to be this perfect little girl and never let anyone see me do anything wrong. It was a lot of pressure but I was so afraid to disappoint God or my parents, that I became a very quiet person. As I grew up and started taking my kids to church , it seemed like things were so different in church . I always remember people saying "Oh yeah, I will pray for you," then walk away. I wondered if they really pray for me during the week and why didn't they just pray for me when I asked?

The author has really opened my eyes to what Christianity truly means and I loved how he related it to stories in his own personal life. I think we can get so caught up in "the religion" that we forget we need to have a relationship with Jesus. I think about how wonderful it would have been  to sit and listen to Jesus tell his story. Can you imagine the impact it would have on you? The author does a great job of making the book relatable and at times a bit funny. It's interesting how we all are given the free will to choose to follow Him, but kinda have our own agendas. The author has written a book that is easy to read, but gives you things to really study and think about. I love to be challenged and I appreciate the openness that the author shared. When you really think about it, isn't the story about Jesus one where we have a relationship with Him? We are His hands and feet and we are to follow Him. The key is to have that personal relationship with Him.

Just like He made each of us unique, He also gave each of us our own story. Some of us have gone through trials but with those trials comes  our testimony, our own unique story to tell. I really enjoy this book and it has helped me see the bigger picture from the beginning. We get so caught up in saying "He died. Now He is risen" that we forget to tell the story from the beginning. We assume people will take what we say and agree , but they walk away confused because we fail to tell the real story , the story of Jesus. He wants to restore His people, give them hope, forgive them and continue the story.

"Christianity is about someone who rescues  you, draws you in, and then never lets go ."

I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.

Wednesday, September 28, 2016


MAGGIE'S RAINBOW by LYDIA MOEN

This has been a joy to read and I hope everyone will take time to read this beautiful story set in  a small town. Maggie is the main character in the story and I instantly fell in love with her. She is caring, loves the Lord and is very family oriented. I did enjoy the beginning of the book when she thought she had an intruder in her home, only to find out it is her grandson . Josh has come to visit his grandmother after being in Germany in the military. He has brought along a buddy that seems to have some problems to deal with. Can Josh help his friend  before it is to late? Why has Josh decided to see his grandmother instead of going home to his parents?

I loved the friends that Maggie had and I especially loved that they called themselves The Three Cord Strands. It is true that with the three of them, their bond was tight and they were ready to help each other out. When one if them faces a great loss, the other two join forces and surround their friend with love and encouragement . Do you have friends like that?

Now on to another of my favorite characters whose name is Charlie. What a wonderful man he is. He sure had a sparkle in his eyes for Maggie. I love reading about older couples and how they find love again. But with every relationship, communication is vital. When Maggie starts to misunderstand a situation, it pulls her and Charlie away from each other. Even as we get older, we can still feel jealous and make silly assumptions. The author did a great job of showing how Maggie prayed a lot and really listened to God's voice. I loved the scriptures that were scattered lovingly throughout story that really captured the emotions so well.  I wanted to move to the town and hang out with Maggie's friends while eating those delicious desserts they had especially the peanut butter ones.

The characters go through some hard decisions, misunderstandings, building relationships and an unforgettable story of second chances. I love rainbows and as you read the story , you will see how important a rainbow can be. I loved its meaning and really added a depth to the emotional story. It's time to set back, relax and take a journey to a town that is rich in love, surprises and an ending that will have you crying and smiling at the same time.

I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.

Monday, September 26, 2016


BEDWARMER'S SON by CARYL MCADOO

I am so glad I had the opportunity to read this emotional journey about slavery. Often times we forget how different it was for our ancestors as they were growing up. The story is set in the late 1800s where slaves were common and the life they endured was not always pleasant. The author has done an amazing job of taking readers to a time period and bringing it to life with authenticity. The language was true to that era and made the story so realistic.

Jasmine is a slave who has been bought to be William's bed warmer. She is beautiful, strong and I loved her attitude. I loved the description of her duties which ranged from keeping the fire going in the bedroom to bringing William a drink. The attraction to each other was gradual but so gracefully written I could picture them as they played chess . William is a handsome white  man who has a mother who is quite overbearing. The house William lived in was very grand and the staff was always kept busy. Soon it was apparent that William and Jasmine had fallen in love. Can you imagine the scandal that will bring to the family ?

Jasmine's story is both happy and sad. There was a part in the story where a beating that Jasmine had gotten was so painful to read. I could hear the whip snapping against her back and could see her body jerk as the whip made contact with her skin. The tears fell from my eyes as it reminded me of what Jesus must have felt when he was beaten. It is hard to read how slaves  were treated but the author blends the story with scriptures throughout the book to enhance the characters struggles and show their strong faith.

I don't want to give anything away but I will say the book was  the most riveting emotional  and at at times heartbreaking story about a slave who overcame many trials while continuing her strong faith in Jesus. The color of her skin bothered many, but for William, he saw a beautiful woman whose heart was pure . The story is told through the eyes of someone very dear to her. It has a bit of intrigue, surprises and most of all a woman who found strength in her faith. How often do we feel like giving up when we are going through difficult times?  The story really opened my eyes to the hardship the slaves endured because of the color of their skin. Are we guilty of judging people because they may look different or talk different?

Thank you for writing a story that made me really examine my heart . I loved the part in the story where someone gives their heart to Jesus. It was so captivating to read and filled me with joy. Find yourself a comfortable place to read and be mesmerized by the beauty of a story that will stay with you forever.

"There should never be, any person master over any other human.

I received a digital copy of this book from the author for an honest review.

Sunday, September 25, 2016


THE DEVOTED by SUZANNE WOODS FISHER

When I know that there is a series coming out, I buy  each book and start reading them in order when the last book in the series is completed. That is not the case with this series. As each one was published, I grabbed it up and started reading. Why did I not wait,  you may ask? Well the simple answer is because the author writes such memorable stories that I knew I would never forget the previous book in the series. Her characters are so well crafted and relatable that I feel like they become part of my family. This is the third installment of The Bishops Family series and oh my is it a powerful read.

The story is written with grace and I loved how the author placed stories from the bible that helped us understand what the characters were struggling with. I loved Ruthie because she was so intriguing. She is always available to help anyone and has such a desire to learn new things. She hasn't found the right person to share her life with, but that may change very soon. What happens at the Inn at Eagle Hill  where she Workd that will have  people gossiping?

Patrick Kelly is a young man who has come to the community to learn how to be Amish. Yes that does seem strange to some, but his enthusiasm and dedication proves to people that he is sincere .  His character is very likeable and will face challenges that for some, would make them lose hope. As he studies the culture he does start to have questions for Bishop David Stoltzfus. He knows that Sunday is a day of rest, so why are stores open and people selling their goods on a Sunday? I really liked his hunger for learning the Amish customs and how much he wanted to fit in.

  Bishop David starts to really take a look at his congregation and see that maybe some have forgotten  some of the Amish ways . What happens when several families find wealth ? Will they allow that wealth to overshadow their Amish beliefs? Have you ever found yourself comprising your beliefs ? I loved how the author showed the conflicts the community faced with their new found prosperity and how the Bishop realized that he needed to take a firmer stand. Did he get  so caught up in becoming a newlywed that he forgot about his duties as a Bishop?


I can't forget to mention Luke Schrock. He sure does have a big chip on his shoulders. He is jealous of the budding friendship between Ruthie and Patrick. His anger comes out in hurtful ways and I loved how the author showed his life spinning out of control. His actions cause a lot of pain and anger for Ruthie. Will she be able  to forgive him? Will he get help before it is to late? I loved his character the most because it showed how jealousy can cause destruction in someone's life. I remember the scripture that says, "Pride cometh before a fall," and the author does an amazing job of showing how pride and jealousy can change a person. It was very powerful to read and it brought tears to my eyes to see the pain Luke was in.  Will Luke be able to find his way back to God? Can he swallow his pride and ask for forgiveness ?

The characters in the book draw on their faith and along the way find forgiveness, hope and unconditional love. The book delivers an unforgettable story that reminds us to never give up, follow your dreams and surround yourself with family and God.

I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.








Thursday, September 22, 2016


TEA SHOP FOLLY by CARRIE FANCET PAGELS

I love reading books from this very gifted author. She always fills her stories with faith, humor and a cast of characters that are fun to get to know. The description of the area was so realistic, I felt I was there among the beautiful trees and the lovely town that is the setting for this enchanting story.

Lilly  finds out that she has just inherited a house from her great-aunt and goes to Michigan to see what shape the house is in. Once there, she is amazed at the magnificent home. I could feel her delight as she gazed upon the picturesque three-story home complete with a carriage and horses . But as opens the door, there before her eyes are the treasures of her great-aunt. They were delicate, breathtaking teacups and saucers.  The author captured the pure beauty of each precious teacup as she wrote how magnificent and grand they were. Wouldn't it be wonderful to explore a shop full of teacups and saucers. Each one is displayed  with elegance and intricate details that adorned the beautiful sets. Lily was speechless as she took in the precious gift her great-aunt had left her. Can you imagine seeing a house filled with over a hundred tea cups and now realize you own them?

When Theo is introduced in the story, I instantly liked his character. He is smart, handsome and has a great sense of humor. I loved the chemistry between Lily and Theo and it made for some great moments in the story. Somehow Theo thinks Lily's house is a Tea Shoppe and begins to send customers her way. Can you imagine the shock on Lilly's face when women started looking around in her house and admiring the tea cups? The story is wonderful and full of surprises and a romance that is sweet and enduring. Will Theo  ever find the perfect teacup for his mother? Can Lilly and Theo find happiness together?

The story is well written and I loved how the author gave great details and made me feel like I was sipping tea with Lilly at her home. It is a story that is well written with funny misunderstandings, characters that you instantly  like and a romance that is sweet, endearing and a true joy to read.

I received a digital copy of this book from the author for an honest review.


THEY DANCED ON by CARRE ARMSTRONG GARDNER

This is  a wonderful story that captures the dynamics of family. Throughout the book we get glimpses into the lives of the Darling family. The characters were very relatable and easy to fall in love with. Each character brought a different problem, emotion and importance to the story. I really didn't want it to end and yes there are moments that I felt tears coming as I read about the trials  the family faced.

Jane and Leander are the patriarchs of the family. I loved their dedication to each other and as I read that Leander had ALS, I could feel Jane gather her strength and surround her husband with love and compassion. She has a deep faith in God and assures everyone that Leander will be healed. I loved how the author showed Jane's steadfast hope in God and how she never once gave up. It would be so hard to watch a loved one go through an illness and I felt Jane was a great comfort to Leander. The author did a great job of showing what it is like to deal with a spouse's illness and how it takes the whole family to help out.

I found that each of the siblings had great love for each other and really was invested in each other's lives. The problems that the Darling family faced were real live issues that people face everyday. One of the most unforgettable  parts of the book was the relationship between Jane and her sister. Something happened a long time ago, that Ellen refuses to forgive Jane for. That bitterness has caused such a strain on their relationship . Will Ellen ever find a way to forgive Jane? What secret has  Jane  kept all these years? The dynamics between these two characters were well written and shows how deep a betrayal can destroy a relationship. The story is of a family that faces devastating illnesses, addiction and behavior issues with children in a graceful and loving way. I love how the story was written with such emotion that I felt every tear, hurt and pain the characters experienced. Get ready for a story that will bring tears to your eyes, a smile to your face and  a family that never gives up.

"There was so much of life left, both to sorrow over and to celebrate. "

I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.

Tuesday, September 20, 2016


THE THINGS WE KNEW by CATHERINE WEST

I was so captivated by this story, that I stayed up all night to finish it. The story is about a family that went through a very tragic event and the youngest child,  Lynette , is starting to have dreams about that night. She is grown now and has a lot on her plate. Her dad is showing early signs of Alzheimer and it is taking a toll on Lynette. The story really hit home for me as my mother had Alzheimer. It is not an easy illness to watch as the person starts to regress and loses their memories. The author did an amazing job of describing the debilitating disease and how it affects everyone around them.

Lynette has taken on more than she can handle when their beautiful family home is in dire need of renovations. There is little money coming in and it's time to call her siblings home to help.  I loved the way Nantucket was described and I could feel myself there as the winds blew across the trees. The house made me think of a grand house nestled by the beach with loving memories of a happy family. Each character had so much depth and I really feel in love with Gray. He is a famous singer, but his bad choices have sent him into a journey where he realizes he needs help for his addiction. How will he tell his family that he has been living a lie? Will he finally surrender and get help? The friction between the siblings were very well written and I loved how the author allowed them to each share their hurts and feel compassion for each other.

Nick is the next door neighbor that has loved Lynette since they were younger. He comes home to help his dad out when he discovers his dad is very ill. I loved the conflict between father and son that showed how secrets, lies and unforgiveness can destroy a relationship. The author did an amazing job of letting characters experience grace and learn to let go of the past. There is a big secret that will change everyone. Will they be able to become a close knit family again? Can Nick win Lynette's love? I cried at the end of the story because it was such a reminder of grace. Everyone wants grace and when you allow yourself to swallow your pride, it becomes easy to give grace to someone. The story will be one I won't easily forget as it was a beautiful story of a family that was lost, but through grace they were reunited.

I received a copy of this book from The Fiction Guild for an honest review.

Friday, September 16, 2016


THE DOMINO EFFECT by DAVIS BUNN

What an adventure this book was. With nonstop action and twists and turns, readers are in for a roller coaster ride that is an edge of your seat adventure. I loved the characters and the detailed intricate goings on behind the scenes of the trade industry.

Esther is very smart and holds a job at a prestigious bank as a risk analyst. She has been doing some behind the scenes snooping on her own and has discovered some unsettling information. What should she do with this unsettling information? Does she turn in banks that have been doing illegal dealings? It is about to get dangerous for Esther. Can she outsmart the system and stay alive?

There is a great deal of technical information throughout the book which made it very intriguing and helped me understand the storyline. The author has done an excellent job of making a hard to understand subject very easy to grasp. Now what will be Esther's next step? Will she risk everything to safe the economy ? I loved her determination and strong spirit and thought the author developed her character very well. The story is very intriguing and brings into question, "What would you do if you had knowledge that could bring the economy of The U.S.A. to a disastrous collapse?" Get ready for a thriller with twists and turns and a story that could easily become a real life crisis.

I received a copy of this book from the blogging program of Bethany House Publishing.

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I have always loved everything this author has written and  this book is no exception. It is emotional, mesmerizing,
loving, faith filled and touches your heart in a way that takes your breath away. I could not put the book down as I was taken on a journey of healing, forgiveness and trust. Each character breathes life into the story with their charm and  grace. The author does  an amazing job of making the reader feel every emotion and there were times when I felt tears streaming down my face as I witnessed turmoil and triumph.

Elsa Andreas is a wonderful  character and I instantly connected to her. After a tragedy happens while being a family therapist, she retreats to a place where she feels secure and hidden from the world. She blames herself for what happened that painful day and decides she has nothing to offer anyone. She has such a sweet spirit and caring heart, but she can't forgive herself.

Nick Stafford has his hands full with helping run the family ranch and being a single dad. His daughters are hurting from the divorce and the oldest is in need of some professional help. I loved the interaction between Nick and his daughters. He has a strong sense of protection for them and I could feel his despair as his oldest daughter struggles with feeling abandoned by her mother. Have  you ever felt abandoned, lost or unloved? The story is a beautiful reminder that you are never alone and when you open your heart , peace abounds.

The story takes a look at hurting people and through the guidance of God, they seek to find their way home. I loved how the author gave us a glimpse into the relationship between Nick and his dad.  Two stubborn prideful men not wanting to take that first step to say, "I'm sorry" was written with a longing for acceptance. It's funny how we all long for love and acceptance, yet when it is freely given, we let our pride get in the way. I loved every moment of this story and am thrilled to know that a third book is coming up in this series. Thank you for writing a story that shows how forgiveness heals the broken heart, trust is something we all need to work on and unconditional love is priceless.

"Love without trust isn't love."

I received a copy of this book from Blogging For Books for an honest review.










HOME ON THE RANGE by RUTH LOGAN HERNE

I have always loved everything this author has written and  this book is no exception. It is emotional, mesmerizing,
loving, faith filled and touches your heart in a way that takes your breath away. I could not put the book down as I was taken on a journey of healing, forgiveness and trust. Each character breathes life into the story with their charm and  grace. The author does  an amazing job of making the reader feel every emotion and there were times when I felt tears streaming down my face as I witnessed turmoil and triumph.

Elsa Andreas is a wonderful  character and I instantly connected to her. After a tragedy happens while being a family therapist, she retreats to a place where she feels secure and hidden from the world. She blames herself for what happened that painful day and decides she has nothing to offer anyone. She has such a sweet spirit and caring heart, but she can't forgive herself.

Nick Stafford has his hands full with helping run the family ranch and being a single dad. His daughters are hurting from the divorce and the oldest is in need of some professional help. I loved the interaction between Nick and his daughters. He has a strong sense of protection for them and I could feel his despair as his oldest daughter struggles with feeling abandoned by her mother. Have  you ever felt abandoned, lost or unloved? The story is a beautiful reminder that you are never alone and when you open your heart , peace abounds.

The story takes a look at hurting people and through the guidance of God, they seek to find their way home. I loved how the author gave us a glimpse into the relationship between Nick and his dad.  Two stubborn prideful men not wanting to take that first step to say, "I'm sorry" was written with a longing for acceptance. It's funny how we all long for love and acceptance, yet when it is freely given, we let our pride get in the way. I loved every moment of this story and am thrilled to know that a third book is coming up in this series. Thank you for writing a story that shows how forgiveness heals the broken heart, trust is something we all need to work on and unconditional love is priceless.

"Love without trust isn't love."

I received a copy of this book from Blogging For Books for an honest review.

Thursday, September 15, 2016


WHEN MOUNTAINS MOVE by JULIE CANTRELL

The story is set in  the 1940s and the author has done an amazing job of writing a beautiful historical book. I appreciate the descriptions of Colorado in those days and made the story very realistic. It wasn't easy trying to start a new life in the rough terrain  and our main characters will soon find out how much work is involved to start a ranch.

Millie is quite young when she married Bump Anderson. She is ready to begin a new life and doesn't mind the treacherous grounds they will have to travel to reach their destination. Millie has another reason to leave her old home that she hasn't told Bump about. What will happen when he finds out her secret?

Bump is a hard working man and is excited to take on the challenge of getting a deserted ranch back up and running. I loved the details of what chores were done daily to keep the ranch going. It was very hard work and I was impressed with Millie and her dedication to helping  her husband's dream come true. I don't think I would want to go to a land and start from scratch trying to rebuild it. I did find her friend Kat to be most unpleasant. She sure has her eyes on Millie's husband and that really added some friction between the newlyweds.

When Millie's grandmother comes to visit Millie, I really enjoyed how her heritage was a focal point of the story. Her grandmother shared some wonderful stories about the past and described some of the Choctaw traditions. It seemed to really help Millie understand where she came from and how important her ancestors were. I loved the descriptions of their culture and I could picture Millie sitting in awe as Oca shared memories. When Millie has a very hard decision to make , I could feel her despair and pain. The author did a great job of talking about a very hard subject but did it with grace and showed the struggle that women go through when faced with this decision.
What does Millie decide to do ? Dies she make the right choice?

The book is a wonderful journey of newlyweds starting out, their struggles and the lessons they learn as they grow in their faith and learn to trust each other. The secret that Millie has hidden from Bump will be a huge shock and I loved how the author shared the pain and hurt that the secret had caused. If you love historical fiction with a powerful cast of characters and reading about the challenges they face this is the book to get. There are several characters I didn't mention but you will discover how they are intricate to the story about second chances , trust and unconditional love.

I received a copy of this book from The Fiction Guild for an honest review.

Tuesday, September 13, 2016


FROM THIS MOMENT ON by DEBRA CLOPTON


The moment you open a new book with anticipation and feel chills as you start the first chapter and begin to find yourself there with the characters is special. Not many writers can capture that feeling for a reader but this author has an amazing way to open your eyes to a new adventure with words that skip across the pages with gusto. I am honored that I was able to read From This Moment On and thankful that there is more to come from this inspiring series.

Cali is a very smart young woman who has come back to the family's resort after a disasterous marriage that ended with an emotional scar that Cali carries with her. She is putting all her energy into helping the family renovate the resort. I loved how all the siblings worked together in a family business and helped them stay as a tight knit family. There is nothing more special then a family that looks out for each other and is there when they are needed. Cali is still very hurt by the divorce but won't talk about it. Will she ever be able to trust a man again?

As part of the renovation, Cali's  brother has hired Grant to do some murals to improve the appeal of the resort. He is quite handsome  and famous but carries a heavy burden of a plane accident that he can't get over. Will his guilt stop him from believing in himself? I loved when Cali and Grant first meet. I could feel the attraction right away as the author captured their intense and guarded look. As Grant started working on the murals , I enjoyed the details of the painting and felt the scenes come to life.

The story is filled with touching moments between Cali and Grant. I loved how their relationship was slowly developed and how Grant was patient with Cali. Will Cali be able to open her heart again and trust Grant to make her feel safe? I loved the way the author masterfully wrote a story about forgiveness and trust and allowed us to witness the gift of true love. Be sure and pick up a copy of this beautiful story and travel  to Windswept Bay and experience the waves as they crash against the rocks, feel the sand as you walk along the beach and fall in love with characters that will have you wanting to meet them.

I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.

MARY CHOSEN OF GOD by DIANA WALLIS TAYLOR

I really love books that are fictionalization of bible stories. Sometimes they are just straight forward with no real descriptions or anything to help the reader to connect to the book. In this case, the author has done an outstanding  job of retelling  a very important story that completely captivated me. I saw the breads, the fruits and other delicious items on the table as Mary's family sat down to partake of a meal that came from God's provision. I loved how the author made me feel like I was sitting at the table listening to Mary talk to her parents. I envisioned a sweet soft voice as she spoke of her love for The Most High.

I was so impressed with the way the author told the story of Mary and how she made such beautiful descriptions of the time period and the feelings that Mary experienced when she realized she was carrying a special child. I imagine there was much talk and whispers about Mary when she became pregnant. I have read the story many times, seen movies about Mary and the birth of Christ. This time I felt the story deep in my soul as the author wrote with grace and compassion about the mother of Jesus. I loved how Mary continuously prayed for guidance and believed without question that her son was destined for greatness.

The author has given me a new author to read now that I have had  the honor of reading her book. It is parallel to the story in the bible but adds real depth and brings the story to life with vivid details. The true unconditional love that Mary had for her son is written with emotions that brought tears to my eyes. I hope everyone will grab a copy of this book. It is a magnificent retelling of Mary and the son who would one day set us free.

"Therefore , let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Yeshua, whom you crucified , both Lord and Messiah."

I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.





Friday, September 9, 2016


ALWAYS WITH YOU by ELAINE STOCK

Everyday in the news we hear of gangs and secret sects being formed. Why is it easy to get young people to join these groups? Perhaps it is as simple as their desire to be loved and wanted. We all want to be accepted and live in a family that is nurturing and loving. Not all of us are lucky to have that environment and the consequences can be devastating .

Isabelle seemed to have it all.  Her father was very strict and demanding at times, but wanted the best for his daughter. He wants to dictate Isabelle's  every move and that causes her to be a bit rebellious. Her grandmother is not any better with her harsh tones and opinions that are hurtful and unfounded.  What she lacks in her home is security and love. Isabelle wants to belong , to feel appreciated and above all loved. Tyler comes to her rescue and she sees him as her knight in shining armour. He has rescued  her from a group of boys who were out to harm her. Tyler seems to be a decent guy and Isabelle is thankful he was there to help her.

Tyler and Isabelle's relationship is quick to develop and it suddenly turns into a marriage. I thought it seemed rushed at first but the author does an exceptional job of showing the emotions Isabelle had to want someone to love her and keep her safe. She had this fairy tale dream of a perfect husband with beautiful children where they live happily ever after. Isabelle is in for a shock as time goes on. She knows that Tyler belongs to a group called The Faithful. This group seems to be exactly what Isabelle is looking for. I really liked how the group didn't quite welcome her with open arms like she envisioned. After all, she needed to prove she could be trusted . But when dark secrets arise, Isabelle know she has made a grave mistake.

The story deals with a very emotional subject about racism . The author really did an amazing job of describing what a religious cult is and the power the leader, Thomas  had over his followers. I was on the edge of my seat as things started to crumble around Isabelle's world.  When death and hatred arises all around her she starts to wonder why she so willingly married Tyler. She loves her husband, but fears that he has been lying to her about The Faithful. I could feel the fear in Isabelle as she discovers the truth behind The Faithful. Will she try to escape from the cult? Can she trust anyone to save her?  Is it possible to ever escape from a cult that is filled with hate and revenge?

The book is very explosive and deals with racism, hatred, manipulation, lies and fear. Throughout the book the author does a great job of exploring the background of Isabelle's heritage. It made her grieve to learn of her ancestors that were involved in terrible crimes that led  to torture. It is at times hard to read the book as I felt Isabelle's despair and her need to know who the true God is. I loved how the author showed readers that there is hope, forgiveness, and above all a loving God that loves us unconditionally.

 The book is must read which delves into the secret world of hate  groups. I really though the author wrote a very emotional story that could draw kids in just by making them believe lies. The brainwashing was evident in the story and showed how easily a trap can be set to get new members. The ending is a true surprise and one that brought the writing to a depth of realism.

I received a digital copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.,

Thursday, September 8, 2016


THE REASON by WILLIAM SIRLS

I have always heard "There is a reason why things happen." I have often wondered will I ever find out what that reason is? Will I understand why it happened? In this book there are several characters that will ask those questions. I loved each character and thought the author represented a good array of problems they had, and took us on a journey that is unforgettable.

There is a cross in front of a church that has been damaged. It sure doesn't seem like it is even repairable but a group gets together to find a way to repair it. A carpenter named Kenneth agrees to fix it and the townspeople are amazed at how beautiful the new cross is. It seemed impossible to fix, but before their eyes it transformed into a cross that brought tears to people's eyes.

It's hard not to tell more about this book, but to do that I would ruin the story. I can say that I cried many a tear during this book. The story is about several people and their test of faith. We sometimes say "Why God, why me?" or "I had faith but you didn't answer my prayer. " Through this story I found myself identifying with some of the characters. Do I have enough faith ? I say I trust God, but do I really? There is nothing more powerful than to witness a miracle . I have heard of the pastor who had lost his voice for years, then one day as he was asked to do a bible class, his hoarse  , very hard to here voice suddenly was restored. Yes that was a true miracle and as you read this book you will read about miracles. You will also experience the despair of a mother, the hope of a doctor and the undeniable faith of a pastor.

I loved the character Kenneth and how he was able to lead people to the truth and talk to them through scriptures. Who is Kenneth? Could he be an angel sent by God to share faith with people, let them know that they could have a true relationship with God, or is he Jesus himself? The book is very well written and the emotions run strong throughout the story. Each character has a purpose in the story and I loved how the author weaved their story so closely with each other. Do you believe? Is your faith strong enough to believe in miracles and trust God?

I hope as you read this amazing book that you take your time, let the story touch your soul as you discover "The Reason."

"God doesn't have to prove anything to anyone."

I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.

Tuesday, September 6, 2016

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Pumpkins in Paradise
by Kathi Daley

… everything about fall in it all wrapped up with a mystery … Its a quick read too, but a very enjoyable one.
~A Chick Who Reads
The mystery was very well plotted and truly was puzzling. I love the way the hidden clues were found and were not easy to solve.
~Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book
I loved this book for several reasons…The characters are well done and easy to relate to, the setting in a small town with a resort by a mountain lake. You can’t ask for anything better.
~Sleuth Cafe
The characters are fun and the author keeps you held into the story from the very first page.
~Shelley’s Book Case
I enjoyed the setting and the characters and solving puzzles which occur throughout the book.
~Laura’s Interests
PUMPKINS-IN-PARADISE-by-Kathi-Daley
Pumpkins in Paradise (A Tj Jensen Mystery Book 1)
Paperback: 268 pages
Publisher: Henery Press; Second edition (September 6, 2016)
ISBN-13: 978-1635110890
E-Book ASIN: B01GQPYU8U
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Synopsis

Between volunteering for the annual pumpkin festival and coaching her girls to the state soccer finals, high school teacher Tj Jensen finds her good friend Zachary Collins dead in his favorite chair. When the handsome new deputy closes the case without so much as a “why” or “how,” Tj turns her attention from chili cook-offs and pumpkin carving to complex puzzles, prophetic riddles, and a decades-old secret she seems destined to unravel.
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If you have not read a book from this author, you are really missing out on great stories that captivate an audience with words that dance across the pages with adventure. I love how the author develops her characters so well and gives them personalities we can all relate to. Her descriptions of the area that the story takes place in makes you feel very welcoming.

This book is the first in an exciting series where we meet Tj Jensen. Tj is a very responsible and caring person. She has a big heart for children which makes her job as a high school PE coach perfect for her. The town is so quaint and is decorated for the fall. I could picture pumpkins gracing the storefronts and festive decorations that add to the excitement of fall.

 Because of an unexpected tragedy , Tj is now caring for her two half-sisters. They all live together with her father and grandfather in a resort they run. I love the relationship the family has and the author did a great job of showing how family comes together in a tragedy.

Being back in her hometown, Tj will run into old friends and perhaps find a new person that will help her get out more. She seems to stay busy with work and family which leaves  little time for herself. What happens when an old friend of Tj is found dead? Will she help with the investigation or get in the way? Tj's old friend had many secrets that will change lives and it was enduring to see how much compassion Tj had for him.   I felt so sad knowing that this person was almost forgotten about in the town and had little friends or family to visit him. I loved the way the story flowed so easily and gave readers many twists that keeps you glued to the book. I loved reading how the suspect gets narrowed down by brilliant writing and intriguing facts. I was very surprised by who it was and the ending is a great suspenseful whodunit.

Don't miss this great introduction to the Tj Jensen Mystery Series. It is a good cozy mystery that has intrigue, secrets, and a town full of interesting characters.  It's time to get comfy and read a book that you will not be able to put down. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.

I received a copy of this book from Great Escapes Book Tours for an honest review.







Henery Press is releasing the 1st 6 books in this series on September 6, 2016
Snowmen in Paradise (A Tj Jensen Mystery Book 2)
Winter Carnival comes to Serenity, and with it Tj finds her schedule busier than ever. Not only is her ski and snowboard team heavily involved in demonstrations and local competitions, but her ragtag choir is about to debut in their first live performance. To make matters even more complicated, someone has killed Travis Davidson, a town favorite son, world-class snowboarder, and Olympic hopeful. Tj is determined not to get involved in the subsequent investigation until she learns the prime suspect is Chelsea Hanson, high-school boyfriend Hunter Hanson’s sister.
Although there’s no shortage of Sereninites with a grudge against the hometown hero, even Tj has to admit there’s good cause to suspect Chelsea of the murder. Balancing bridesmaid duties, Winter Carnival obligations, show choir duty, and after-hours investigation, Tj sets out to prove Chelsea innocent.

Bikinis in Paradise (A Tj Jensen Mystery Book 3)
When the Tropical Tan Corporation descends on Maggie’s Hideaway, the lakeside resort where Tj Jensen lives, she must juggle a bikini contest, a BBQ cook-off, a missing model, and a dead chaperone while her father is out of town. Lead Deputy Dylan Caine is on vacation while his sister is visiting, leaving Assistant Deputy Roy Fisher in charge. When Roy asks Tj for her help they find there may be more going on than anyone realized. With Kyle and Jenna’s help, they dig into the lives of those involved, only to find a mystery more complex than anything they could ever have imagined.

Christmas in Paradise (A Tj Jensen Mystery Book 4) Christmas in Serenity is a magical time of year Tj has always looked forward to with happy anticipation. This year her holiday spirit is marred by the impending arrival of two new men in her life. When one of them ends up dead, Tj must juggle community plays, Christmas tree cuttings, sleigh rides, and holiday shopping with a complex murder investigation. As the facts begin to unravel, she realizes she may have to risk everything to save someone she loves.




Puppies in Paradise (A Tj Jensen Mystery Book 5)
When a friend of Tj’s is injured in a car accident during a blizzard, Tj takes responsibility for the litter of puppies left behind. Meanwhile, she works with Kyle, Jenna, and the gang to catch the person responsible for the death of a close family friend. When it turns out that the main suspects are also close to the Jensens, Tj must deal with one of the most difficult decisions she’s ever had to make.

In the midst of the annual Halloween frenzy, Tj finds herself pulled into a series of events at the high school where she works. Not only must she help one of the girls on her team deal with a case of cyberbullying, but she must help a student who has recently suffered a personal tragedy. And as if Tj wasn’t busy enough, in walks Samantha Colton, a reporter for Second Look, a television series that takes a look back at unsolved murders. This time the case is the death of a popular student after the homecoming dance ten years before. To make matters even worse—or maybe more convenient—the graduating class of the victim is in town for their ten-year reunion and all the suspects just happen to have converged on Serenity for the weekend. When Samantha turns up dead, Tj must track down someone who seems willing to kill again to keep their secret.


• TREASURE IN PARADISE (#7) April 2017
*Just click on Covers to order from Amazon
KathiDaley

About the Author

Author of the Zoe Donovan cozy Mystery Series, Tj Jensen Paradise Lake Mystery series, Whales and Tails Cozy Mystery Series, Sand and Sea Hawaiian Mysteries, and Seacliff High Teen Cozy Mystery Series.
Come for the murder, stay for the romance.
Kathi lives in the beautiful alpine community of Lake Tahoe with her husband Ken and dog Echo. When she’s not writing she enjoys hanging out on the beach with her children and grandchildren. During the summer she enjoys hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, wakeboarding, and sunset cruises on the lake. During the winter she enjoys cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and curling up by a fire with a good book.
Kathi uses her mountain home as inspiration for her books, all which include appearances by the wildlife she shares her life with.
Visit Kathi Daley:
Facebook at Kathi Daley Books, www.facebook.com/kathidaleybooks
Kathi Daley Teen – www.facebook.com/kathidaleyteen
Kathi Daley Books Group Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/569578823146850/
Kathi Daley Books Birthday Club- get a book on your birthday – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1040638412628912/
Kathi Daley Recipe Exchange – https://www.facebook.com/groups/752806778126428/
Webpage – www.kathidaley.com
Twitter at Kathi Daley@kathidaley – https://twitter.com/kathidaley
Pinterest – http://www.pinterest.com/kathidaley/
PURCHASE LINKS – Amazon


Count Down to Paradise Launch Event - https://www.facebook.com/events/848072505336998/

Pumpkins in Paradise Book Club - https://www.facebook.com/events/1408072279209347/

Books in the Tj Jensen Mystery Series:
• PUMPKINS IN PARADISE (#1)
• SNOWMEN IN PARADISE (#2)
• BIKINIS IN PARADISE (#3)
• CHRISTMAS IN PARADISE (#4)
 PUPPIES IN PARADISE (#5)
• HALLOWEEN IN PARADISE (#6)
• TREASURE IN PARADISE (#7) April 2017
Barnes and Noble
Books in the Tj Jensen Mystery Series:
• PUMPKINS IN PARADISE (#1)
• SNOWMEN IN PARADISE (#2)
• BIKINIS IN PARADISE (#3) link not up yet
• CHRISTMAS IN PARADISE (#4) link not up yet
 PUPPIES IN PARADISE (#5)
• HALLOWEEN IN PARADISE (#6)
• TREASURE IN PARADISE (#7) April 2017




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Tour Participants
August 31 – A Chick Who Reads – REVIEW
August 31 – Island Confidential – INTERVIEW
September 1 – Queen of All She Reads – GUEST POST
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September 2 – Sleuth Cafe – REVIEW
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