LOVE SO DIVINE by JoANN DURGIN
Heather is a beautiful woman who is a ballerina and comes from a very wealthy family. She is a very determined outspoken person who has aspirations to become a marketing director someday. She does have some things from her childhood that have plagued her few awhile. It has hampered her ability to have a relationship with anyone and she knows that she needs to let the past go.
Chase is a strikingly handsome man who is a youth pastor. He has a deep commitment to his faith and is always available when a young person needs help. His relationship with his dad is strained at times due to his past bad choices, but Chase is always there to help him. His past is heartbreaking and he still blames himself for not being able to help his friend when she needed it the most.
What happens when a wealthy young woman and a youth pastor meet at a wedding? They come from different backgrounds, but does God have a plan for them?
I have read several of the authors' books, but this one is the most beautiful story of faith, forgiveness and love I have ever read. The characters are written with flaws that the author uses to bring them closer to God and to show their vulnerability . We all want to be accepted and loved, but what if we had things from the past that keep us guarded around others? Can Heather find a way to forgive her father and finally break the chains that have held her captive in bitterness and mistrust? Will Chase be able to reach the kids that are walking through a troubled time and steer them to the One who saves?
I loved how the author wrote about the attraction between Heather and Chase without rushing it. The story was so well written I couldn't put it down. It draws on your emotions and guides you with scriptures toward a story that will stay with you forever. This is a love story not just between two people, but also with God as the author's words delicately dance across the pages. I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes a clean faith filled romance that shares about forgiveness and accepting others.
"It's how we respond to our circumstances that make all the difference."
Chase is a strikingly handsome man who is a youth pastor. He has a deep commitment to his faith and is always available when a young person needs help. His relationship with his dad is strained at times due to his past bad choices, but Chase is always there to help him. His past is heartbreaking and he still blames himself for not being able to help his friend when she needed it the most.
What happens when a wealthy young woman and a youth pastor meet at a wedding? They come from different backgrounds, but does God have a plan for them?
I have read several of the authors' books, but this one is the most beautiful story of faith, forgiveness and love I have ever read. The characters are written with flaws that the author uses to bring them closer to God and to show their vulnerability . We all want to be accepted and loved, but what if we had things from the past that keep us guarded around others? Can Heather find a way to forgive her father and finally break the chains that have held her captive in bitterness and mistrust? Will Chase be able to reach the kids that are walking through a troubled time and steer them to the One who saves?
I loved how the author wrote about the attraction between Heather and Chase without rushing it. The story was so well written I couldn't put it down. It draws on your emotions and guides you with scriptures toward a story that will stay with you forever. This is a love story not just between two people, but also with God as the author's words delicately dance across the pages. I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes a clean faith filled romance that shares about forgiveness and accepting others.
"It's how we respond to our circumstances that make all the difference."
WORTHY HEART by SUSAN ANNE MASON
Maggie Montgomery is off on a trip to New York accompanied by her brother Gabe. She needed to get away from a man who she didn't care to become invoked in. The story is set in the early 1900s and the details that the author gives about this time period is picturesque . Maggie is keeping a little secret from her family that has stayed back home in Ireland . Will they be devastated when they find out her intentions?
Maggie is a very strong willed young woman with a determined spirit. I loved her character and how the author really played up her character traits with grace and elegance. Her brother has a big dream of becoming a firefighter back in Ireland. Will his dream come true, or will someone change his mind and stay in New York?
The story has several characters that will have an encounter with each other as the adventure keeps us mesmerized. The addition of Aurora Hastings and Adam O'Leary from IRISH MEADOWS to this book is a wonderful treat as we get to know them better. Their characters are interesting and a key ingredient to a well thought out storyline. Does Adam's checkered past make him an untrustworthy person? Can he repair his relationship with his father? It is a great historical romance book filled with love, determination and faith. I must mention how breathtaking the cover of this book is.
I received this book from The Book Club Network for an honest review.
Maggie is a very strong willed young woman with a determined spirit. I loved her character and how the author really played up her character traits with grace and elegance. Her brother has a big dream of becoming a firefighter back in Ireland. Will his dream come true, or will someone change his mind and stay in New York?
The story has several characters that will have an encounter with each other as the adventure keeps us mesmerized. The addition of Aurora Hastings and Adam O'Leary from IRISH MEADOWS to this book is a wonderful treat as we get to know them better. Their characters are interesting and a key ingredient to a well thought out storyline. Does Adam's checkered past make him an untrustworthy person? Can he repair his relationship with his father? It is a great historical romance book filled with love, determination and faith. I must mention how breathtaking the cover of this book is.
I received this book from The Book Club Network for an honest review.
PRINTER PROBLEMS by B. W. MACKEY
Brian is your typical kid with interests in video games, a pesty little sister and two patents that remind him to do chores and especially his homework. His dad gets Brian a printer from a pawn shop so he can print out his assignments for school.
It seems that the printer has a mind of its own though. I loved the story and the lessons thst weaved throughout the book. Brian and his friend have a mystery to solve. Whenever Brian says something that is mean, the printer does something very mysterious. What can a printer do to make two kids become scared? Can they solve the printer mystery before it is to late?
The author has written a great story for middle age children that will keep them guessing throughout the book. The printer seems to be teaching the kids a lesson on kindness. Will they try to change their attitude? The story reminds me of a Hardy Boys mystery with intrigue and young kids who work together to help each other out. I loved how the author shared through the story what out thoughts and mean words can do. There are consequences for not being nice to those around us and the story is a perfect format to share a mystery and along the way teach kids about being nice to others. I look toward to more great adventures from this gifted and talented author.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
It seems that the printer has a mind of its own though. I loved the story and the lessons thst weaved throughout the book. Brian and his friend have a mystery to solve. Whenever Brian says something that is mean, the printer does something very mysterious. What can a printer do to make two kids become scared? Can they solve the printer mystery before it is to late?
The author has written a great story for middle age children that will keep them guessing throughout the book. The printer seems to be teaching the kids a lesson on kindness. Will they try to change their attitude? The story reminds me of a Hardy Boys mystery with intrigue and young kids who work together to help each other out. I loved how the author shared through the story what out thoughts and mean words can do. There are consequences for not being nice to those around us and the story is a perfect format to share a mystery and along the way teach kids about being nice to others. I look toward to more great adventures from this gifted and talented author.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
Thursday, January 28, 2016
TERRI BLACKSTOCK
Terri Blackstock has sold over seven million books worldwide and is a New York Times bestselling author. She is the award-winning author of "Intervention," "Vicious Cycle," and "Downfall," as well as such series as Cape Refuge, Newpointe 911, the SunCoast Chronicles, and the Restoration Series.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
Guest Post from Molly Jebber
Grace in “Grace’s Forgiveness”, my second book in my keepsake pocket quilt series, was fun to write. Strangers gasp when she turns her face, and they discover her birthmark on her cheek. You’ll find out how she copes with it. I hope you’ll laugh, cry, and rejoice with her like I did.
Grace and Mark’s story unfolds with twists and turns to keep you guessing. Their Amish laws are not always easy to follow!
I had more ideas than usual for this story. In the grocery, and of course I couldn’t find paper and pen! In the middle of the night, and I was too sleepy to get up and write them down, and while doing laundry. What a mess! Let’s just say, I ran the rinse cycle twice on those clothes. Note to self. Don’t put in detergent while rolling a story idea in my head!
Love. Doesn’t just saying the word make you smile! That giddy, wonderful, and exciting feeling. The grass is greener, the sky is brighter, and you want to hang onto to it for life. I found it with my soulmate and husband, Ed. He’s my rock and inspiration.
Love. Doesn’t just saying the word make you smile! That giddy, wonderful, and exciting feeling. The grass is greener, the sky is brighter, and you want to hang onto to it for life. I found it with my soulmate and husband, Ed. He’s my rock and inspiration.
God, my Heavenly Father is available 24 hours a day, and seven days a week. When I get discouraged and need to talk at two in the morning, He’s there! I love Isaiah 41:10, King James Version, “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.
I love this. He’s saying, “You can do it! Just trust me! We’ve got this!”
You also life me up. I couldn’t keep writing without encouragement from you! Thank you so much for your kind words and support! Please visit my website to find out where I’ll be speaking. I’d love to meet you!
You also life me up. I couldn’t keep writing without encouragement from you! Thank you so much for your kind words and support! Please visit my website to find out where I’ll be speaking. I’d love to meet you!
Book Information
A handsome newcomer with secrets shows a yearning Amish woman a chance at happiness—but their love will need all their courage to keep . . .
Grace Blauch is skilled at midwifery—and crafting quilts that help others pass on messages of enduring family love. But a disfiguring birthmark keeps the young Amish woman from a husband and home of her own—until Mark King arrives from another community. His helpfulness and independent nature earn Grace’s respect. And he finds her outspoken ways and determination to do right irresistibly appealing. Soon Grace is planning a wedding quilt of her very own . . . until her father discovers that Mark’s shunned brother is hiding somewhere in town . . .
Grace can well understand why Mark took such a risk once she hears his wrenching reasons. But she fears even prayer will not convince her father to restore his blessing on their union. She wills herself to face the end of her dreams, but sudden danger and an impossible act of generosity will show her that abiding hope can inspire the most precious of miracles . . .
Author Information
Molly Jebber is an educational, motivational, and Women’s Christian Connection speaker. She was raised in a small town in the Midwest, and insists if you had blinked twice, you would’ve missed it. She loves God, her family and friends, sunshine, swimming and traveling to the Amish communities. Creating historical Amish characters and throwing them into difficult situations and joyous times has been challenging and fun for her. The greatest reward she’s experienced in becoming an author is meeting wonderful people from all over the world who’ve been encouraging and supportive.
Grace is a lovely girl, but is very self conscious of the birthmark on her face. She knows people stare at it , but she tries to not let it bother her. She is a midwife and also works at a store that sells quilts. Grace longs for a husband and family , but thinks her birthmark keeps suitors away.
Mark has just moved to the town and opens a furniture shop next door to Grace's. He is very kind and they seem to really hit it off. He does notice her birthmark, but it doesn't bother him. He sees past that and looks at the beautiful young woman with a graceful and humble attitude . How many of us can look past imperfections ? Are we guilty of judging others because they may look or act differently.
The story is very well written with Amish traditions and makes you feel like you are there in the town with the characters. When Grace is asked to deliver a baby, the details are so precise I felt like I was there with Grace watching a miracle happen. The story flows very smoothly and shows how forgiveness is something we should do everyday. I loved the description of the pocket quilt. It is a lovely quilt that has a place to put a letter in . What a wonderful gift that would be to have a gorgeous quilt and a handwritten letter.
Mark has a secret that could get him shunned from the community. He has come to love Grace and respect her parents. What will happen when his secret is revealed? Can the community forgive him or will he have to move away? The story is beautifully written with wonderful characters. The author has written a story that is compelling and heartfelt. I would encourage everyone to grab a copy of this book and read a story that is emotional, faith filled and shows how forgiveness can touch lives.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit and the author for an honest review.
Giveaway
Blog Tour Stops
Jan 27: http://deana0326.blogspot.com/
Jan 28: http://ldklop.blogspot.com/
Feb 8: http://nannie3.blogspot.com/
Just Kin (Book 6 of Texas Romance Series) Book Tour and Giveaway
Just Kin
Author: Caryl McAdoo
Genre: Christian Historical Fiction
Book Information:
Love covers a multitude of sin.
A stolen kiss ignites a fire that burns all the way from Texas to New York City. Torn apart by war, rejection, and a letter with news she never wanted, Lacey Rose takes her shredded heart and runs. Charley figures out something isn’t right, but is duty-bound to the Confederacy until a deathbed order sets in motion a series of events that tests his love, honor, and commitment to the breaking point.
Can the two lifelong friends see past the pain to finally realize God’s plan for them to be more than just kin?
Author Info:
Caryl, praying her story gives God glory, loves writing for Christian genres–historical and contemporary romance, Biblical fiction, and mid-grade especially. In 2014, Simon and Schuster debuted VOW UNBROKEN, a historical Christian romance set in 1832 Texas, and Caryl followed with three additional novels. In April, LADY LUCK’S A LOSER (contemporary, mature, inspirational romance); September’s debut, HEARTS STOLEN (set in 1839-1844), book two of her historical Christian Texas Romances–a #1 Amazon Best-seller; and in November, A LITTLE LOWER THAN THE ANGELS, volume one of her new Biblical fiction series, The Generations–also an Amazon #1 Best-seller.
In 2008, her high school sweetheart-husband Ron moved her to the woods of Red River County. Caryl counts four children and sixteen grandsugars life’s biggest blessings believing all good things come from God. Praying her story gives God glory, she hopes each one ministers His love, mercy, and grace to its readers. She and Ron live in Clarksville, Texas with two grandsons, Christian and Benjamen.
Lacey Rose has been in love with Charley forever. She is heartbroken when he goes off to war. When she receives a letter from Charley that they are "just kin" it breaks her heart. Can you imagine being sixteen, in love and receive a letter like that.? Lacey decides she can't take the pain and runs away from home. How many of us run away from our problems? We think by running away the problem is left behind, but it follows us everywhere until we deal with it.
Lacey becomes mixed up with more than she bargained for. In the story there is prostitution, gambling, drinking and pre marital sex. For some readers this may be offensive , but the author uses these as tools to show what happens when you turn your back on God. Lacey finds herself doing things she thought she would never be part of, but sometimes we have to find out for ourselves what it is like without God guiding our path.
It seems that Lacey is looking for love, but has forgotten her first love , God. As you read the book, the author has done a great job of giving us characters that are not perfect and find themselves being judged by others. Are we guilty of judging someone when they fall into sin? We have all been in a place in our life where we needed compassion and love, but like Lacey there were people who turned their backs on her because they couldn't look past the imperfections.
Lacey learns some hard lessons and realizes that running from your past is not the answer. One of the many themes in the book is about forgiveness. It is hard to do, especially when you have to forgive yourself first. I loved how the author shows us that sometimes when we are rejected, we feel like the world is caving in, The good news is that God loves us and will never leave us. The story was very well written and I appreciate how the author shows us through a story, that "love covers a multitude of sin. " I appreciate the realism of the story and how the author used God in every situation to show that even though a person may sin, He is always there to forgive and love unconditionally. Do we do the same for others? Can we look past the sin without judgment ? Thanks for a book that reaches into the raw emotions of people and shows us through love and forgiveness, that our past does not define who we are today.,
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit and the author for an honest review.,
Tour Dates:
Jan 20: Christian Bookaholic
Jan 21: Simple Harvest Reads
Jan 22: Bukwurmzzz
Jan 23: Through the Open Window
Jan 24: 100 Pages per Hour
Jan 25: Debbie’s Dust Deliberations
Jan 26: Bigreadersite
Jan 27: Texas Book-aholic
Jan 29: A Greater Yes
Jan 30: D’S QUILTS & BOOKS
Link to purchase book: http://amzn.com/1519738730
Give away Link: a Rafflecopter giveaway
VENDETTA by LISA HARRIS
The day Nikki Boyds' life changed forever was the day her sister Sarah turned up missing ten years ago. It is not something you forget or get over. As a special agent for the Tennessee Missing Persons a task Firce, Nikki now finds people for a living. She likes her job and along the way, she hopes to find out what happened to her sister. The not knowing is the hardest thing to live with. You can let your imagination go crazy, but she needs to stay grounded.
One day while off work Nikki get a call that a girl is missing. With the help of her friend Tyler they start their investigation . As they dig deeper into the case, Nikki finds a link to her sister's case. The question is could this be the same person who took both her sister and the missing girl they are investigating? I loved the action and the twists and turns of the story. The character development is quite good and the intense scenes are a sure way to keep the reader intrigued . It is not a book you want to put down, until the last page is read.
The relationship between Nikki and Tyler is a definite attention grabber. As the story continues, you feel like you are in a maze trying to find your way out. Just as you think you have the mystery figured out, you hit a dead end and the the suspense builds until you find yourself on the edge of your seat . The author has done an amazing job of writing a story that grips you from the beginning and takes you on a roller coaster ride of sheer intrigue at its very best.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for an honest review.
One day while off work Nikki get a call that a girl is missing. With the help of her friend Tyler they start their investigation . As they dig deeper into the case, Nikki finds a link to her sister's case. The question is could this be the same person who took both her sister and the missing girl they are investigating? I loved the action and the twists and turns of the story. The character development is quite good and the intense scenes are a sure way to keep the reader intrigued . It is not a book you want to put down, until the last page is read.
The relationship between Nikki and Tyler is a definite attention grabber. As the story continues, you feel like you are in a maze trying to find your way out. Just as you think you have the mystery figured out, you hit a dead end and the the suspense builds until you find yourself on the edge of your seat . The author has done an amazing job of writing a story that grips you from the beginning and takes you on a roller coaster ride of sheer intrigue at its very best.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for an honest review.
A MOMENT OF WEAKNESS by KAREN KINGSBURY
Jade Conner and Tanner Eastman grew up together and became best friends. They were always together and had the best time. Tanner told Jade that one day he would grow up and marry her. How many of us have made that promise as kids ? It is a sweet memory that sometimes can become real. Everything is going well until one day Jade and her family move. They have hopes of finding her mom that left them. It was hard to leave her best friend, but she hoped one day to return and rekindle their friendship. But as we all know, sometimes things don't go the way you hope. Jade never moved back and her hope of ever seeing Tanner became a distant memory.
Years later Jade is working as a nurse in a hospital where closure is being discussed. Tanner just happens to be the person who is presenting the case and who does he spot? Could it be his best friend from so long ago? Do they still share feelings for each other? The author writes a moving story with deep emotion of two people who drifted apart and now must face their feelings again. Is their faith still strong ? Can Tanner's ambition to persue political aspirations get in between them? There will be a moment that will change their lives forever , but will they be able to overcome pain, and forgiveness to get a second chance? It is a wonderful story that deals with redemption and flawed lives . God can restore what the enemy tried to use for bad, but will Tanner and Jade allow God to help them find their way back to Him and each other?
I received a copy of this book from Blogging For Books for an honest review.
Years later Jade is working as a nurse in a hospital where closure is being discussed. Tanner just happens to be the person who is presenting the case and who does he spot? Could it be his best friend from so long ago? Do they still share feelings for each other? The author writes a moving story with deep emotion of two people who drifted apart and now must face their feelings again. Is their faith still strong ? Can Tanner's ambition to persue political aspirations get in between them? There will be a moment that will change their lives forever , but will they be able to overcome pain, and forgiveness to get a second chance? It is a wonderful story that deals with redemption and flawed lives . God can restore what the enemy tried to use for bad, but will Tanner and Jade allow God to help them find their way back to Him and each other?
I received a copy of this book from Blogging For Books for an honest review.
HIDDING PLACES by ERIN HEALY
The story is centered around Kate who seems to very good at finding places to hide. She tries to stay out of the way, almost like she isn't really there. She lives at Harrison Lodge and her family has cottages on the land where they live. It is a family business and they all pitch in to help keep the lodge running. After the renovation, Kate has found more places to conceal herself. She must get to hear a lot of conversations in her hiding places. Does she hear something one day that could cause her harm? Kate is a lonely child that no one seems to care about except for her grandfather. He loves being with her and Kate is always excited about her time spent with him. Her mother is to busy grieving for Kate's dad who left them. I felt so sorry for Kate at times, that I wish I could hug her.
This story has many different characters thst seem to collide at Harrison Lodge. Charlie has gotten himself mixed up with a gang and soon realizes he needs to find a way to escape from them. When he agrees to do one more job for them, things get out of hand and a 12 year old boy is killed. Charlie finds himself on the run and ends up at the lodge. I loved how the author weaved several families and their stories and found their way to the lodge. What a great place to hide from a distraught family situation, or a man who needs to hide before he is hurt. Can people be forgiven for mistakes? Will others reach out and show love? Does anyone get a second chance?
It is a well written story about redemption , family and seeking forgiveness. The author writes with details that keep you guessing and slips in little plot twists that make you keep reading. This is another well written book by an author who brings a story together with such clarity . If you have not read one of the author's books you are missing out on stories that grip your emotions and hold your attention with such outstanding character development.
I received a copy of this book from The Fiction Guild for an honest review.
This story has many different characters thst seem to collide at Harrison Lodge. Charlie has gotten himself mixed up with a gang and soon realizes he needs to find a way to escape from them. When he agrees to do one more job for them, things get out of hand and a 12 year old boy is killed. Charlie finds himself on the run and ends up at the lodge. I loved how the author weaved several families and their stories and found their way to the lodge. What a great place to hide from a distraught family situation, or a man who needs to hide before he is hurt. Can people be forgiven for mistakes? Will others reach out and show love? Does anyone get a second chance?
It is a well written story about redemption , family and seeking forgiveness. The author writes with details that keep you guessing and slips in little plot twists that make you keep reading. This is another well written book by an author who brings a story together with such clarity . If you have not read one of the author's books you are missing out on stories that grip your emotions and hold your attention with such outstanding character development.
I received a copy of this book from The Fiction Guild for an honest review.
DIET DIAGNOSIS by DAVID NICO PHD
There are many books on the market right now about diets. Some tell you to eat this and cut down on that which can become confusing. In this very well written book, the author has outlined in detail a step by step program. He also gives you reasons for this plan which I found very encouraging. A lot of diet books focus on how to lose weight, but forget that there are other factors that need to be considered in order to achieve your goal. With this book, you get the total package.
Thanks to DIET DIAGNOSIS we are able to focus on body, mind and soul. They all need to work together for a diet to be successful. I loved how the author has the chapters laid out giving you pros and cons that guide you so your entire body can be healthy. The food choices we have today can be overwhelming , but with this book it helps guide you to make healthy choices. I loved the Healthnut Life 7- week plan at the end of the book. It is a great resource to help readers make choices that are healthy and be more informed about food .
Thank you for a book that encourages a healthy living with positive reinforcements and activities that start you on your goal to be healthy. I highly recommend this book for everyone looking for a better way to get healthy and stay healthy.
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.
Thanks to DIET DIAGNOSIS we are able to focus on body, mind and soul. They all need to work together for a diet to be successful. I loved how the author has the chapters laid out giving you pros and cons that guide you so your entire body can be healthy. The food choices we have today can be overwhelming , but with this book it helps guide you to make healthy choices. I loved the Healthnut Life 7- week plan at the end of the book. It is a great resource to help readers make choices that are healthy and be more informed about food .
Thank you for a book that encourages a healthy living with positive reinforcements and activities that start you on your goal to be healthy. I highly recommend this book for everyone looking for a better way to get healthy and stay healthy.
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.
STILL RESTLESS by JAN DAVID HETTINGA
If you are looking for a book to help you speak to a non -believer, this could be a useful tool to start a conversation with. We all have moments where we are not sure which direction we should take, and the author does a good job of addressing topics just like this. There are many different topics throughout the book that can help you dig deeper into the word and also guide non -believers to what the Word says . It can definitely be used as a tool for discussions with non-believers but I think I may have to go back and do a bit of research on some of the points the author makes.
The author includes questions at the end and are very thought provoking . I did find the chapter "Curious about God" to be quite interesting . He talks about the trap that many leaders face when they are perceived not to be tempted. We all have temptations and it is up to each of us to not fall for the trap. It is sad when people get pleasure out of seeing a religious figure fall. Why is that? It is simply because we don't think they would ever be tempted and when they are, the power, pride and arrogance takes over. There are many illustrations the author uses to help bring the reader closer to a relationship with God. The choice is ours to make.
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.
The author includes questions at the end and are very thought provoking . I did find the chapter "Curious about God" to be quite interesting . He talks about the trap that many leaders face when they are perceived not to be tempted. We all have temptations and it is up to each of us to not fall for the trap. It is sad when people get pleasure out of seeing a religious figure fall. Why is that? It is simply because we don't think they would ever be tempted and when they are, the power, pride and arrogance takes over. There are many illustrations the author uses to help bring the reader closer to a relationship with God. The choice is ours to make.
I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.