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Monday, February 27, 2017


AMISH COOKING CLASS THE SEEKERS

This is the first book in a new series and it starts off with a wonderful cast of characters. The author once again has written a story that captures the essence of human spirit. I especially liked this book because it gives readers a glimpse into Amish cooking. Each character comes alive with the stroke of words that eloquently glide across the pages. I was so enthralled with the book that I read it in one day.

Heidi fills  her days with keeping a well kept home, gardening and making delicious meals for her husband. She is happy except for the emptiness of not having a child. To keep herself busy and help  bring in extra income, she offers cooking classes in her home. I know if I saw a flyer offering Amish cooking classes, I would be rushing to sign up. The author described the food that is made with such vividness that I could  smell the dishes as they were cooking.

The people that sign up for the class have come to learn how to cook, but each one will walk away with so much more. I instantly loved each character and how they all were looking for companionship, acceptance, love and encouragement. As the group started getting to know each other, there were friendships started and a bond that grows between each one.

 I found it very fascinating that Heidi and her husband , Lyle willingly  let a complete stranger park his RV on their land . Ron was my favorite character because he could be any of us who look for forgiveness and a need to be liked. He is a man who is struggling to survive and looks for help wherever he can find it. I loved how the author shows how vulnerable he really is and the secret that He has lived with for a long time. His character is very relatable because we have felt lost at sometime . Will he fit into the cooking class ? Can he open up and find the unconditional love that God has for him?

There are other characters in the book that remind us how much rejection and loneliness can affect us. Each character was written with great passion and I came to like everyone of them and cheered them on as Heidi showed them grace and compassion. This is one book you don't want to miss. I highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to read about healing,  forgiveness, friendship and His love for everyone. Don't miss the delicious recipes at the end. There are also discussion questions included that  help you dig deeper as you  reflect on your life.

"God commands us to forgive others, just as He forgives us."

I received a copy of this book from the author and Barbour Publishing . The review is my honest opinion.

Saturday, February 25, 2017


WHEN THE BOUGH BREAKS by ANE MULLIGAN

Wow! I just finished reading this book and I am so impressed by the intrigue, adventure, and outstanding characters. The author did such an amazing job on giving us a peek at what it's like to work around senators and other high powered officials . Her intricate details were so spot on that I felt like I was there watching government in action. What is really impressive is how the story weaves through different characters and gives us glimpses of how God works. I loved how a few of the characters struggled at times with their faith and how they relied on Him in their weakest moments.

Sienna is a very straight forward young woman hoping to make a difference in the political arena. She has moved from her hometown and is ready to jump in with enthusiasm. Do you remember what it was like when you landed the job you had always dreamed about? For Sienna it seems she has been waiting for just the right opportunity. Will the job compromise her beliefs? Can she do her job and not be tempted by worldly values? There are moments in the story where Sienna really starts to question where God is. Have you ever felt like He isn't listening to you? I loved how vulnerable she felt at times and her willingness to say she is angry with Him. As she gets more involved in her job, the story takes on an intriguing twist that literary had me on the edge of my seat.

The story has everything you look for in a romantic suspense/political thriller  including unsavory characters, behind closed doors deals, a scheme for power and an unforgettable high octane race to outsmart the bad guys. I loved everything about this book and didn't want it to end. Throughout the book I loved the relationship Sienna has with her parents. Her father is so down to earth and gives Sienna great guidance as she struggles with her relationship with God. It's funny how we let our pride get in the way sometimes and make bad decisions. Sienna must face some hard choices and trust God to help her through her journey to the truth. I highly recommend this book to those looking for a book that grabs your attention and takes you on an intriguing and emotional ride.

I received a copy of this book from the author and Bookfun.org. The review is my own opinion.

Tuesday, February 21, 2017


A MOTHER'S LOVE BY CHARLOTTE HUBBARD

This is one book that I couldn't put down. The author has written a very emotional story that grabs your attention as you feel the story come to life. It is hard to lose a family member. For Rose she has seen more than her share of tragedy. She has just buried her mom and now must face raising her child Gracie all alone. She has no one else in the world and knows she must support herself and her daughter. 

Rose finds a job working at a retirement center cooking. She is able to take her daughter with her. Rose is a sweet woman who is grieving over the loss of her mother, father and husband. That is a heavy murder to carry. Has Rose lost her faith in God? Will this job help her and Gracie start to get their lives back together? 

I fell instantly in love with Gracie. She is a very well mannered young girl. Her smile and outgoing personality lights up a room. People at the center take to her right away. I could see her sitting at the table playing games with the residents and giving them joy in their life. She is a ray of sunshine and plays a vital role in the story, " And a child shall lead them." 

Matthias is a hard working man who has come to know Rose by helping her with the burial of her mom. He has taken a shine to Gracie and thinks she is a delightful child. When Rose finds out a secret that has been kept from her for many years, can Matthias help her work through it? Does she feel betrayed by the secret? Will she be able to forgive? The author has done an excellent job of showing us the consequences of hiding something. I love how Matthias stands by Rose and Gracie as more people are involved in the secret. 

There are a few more characters in the book that the author introduces that shows the anger and resentment secrets can do to someone. The emotions were so real I could feel the pain and mistrust that came out. You don't want to miss this story that shows us forgiveness, faith and the unconditional love of a mother. 

"Sometimes its the unexpected details that bring us to our knees." 

"Forgiveness is a two-sided gift. The one who requests forgiveness is admitting a need for it, while the person who grants forgiveness has freed his own soul of any lingering doubt or trust.

Monday, February 20, 2017


SHINE LIKE THE DAWN by CARRIE TURANSKY

After finishing this book I had to just sit and enjoy the breathtaking story I just finished. I am so overwhelmed by the book that I may read it again just to feel what an impact it has made on me. The author has written a story with characters that leap off the pages and come  to life. This is without a doubt her best writing to date. It is such a wonderful story that I want it made into a movie. Thanks to the author,  I was whisked away to a beautiful and magnificent house nestled in Edwardian England. The setting is described with poise and grace. I truly was so caught up in the story that the world around me ceased to exist.

Maggie is a wonderful character with family values and a desire to uncover the truth about her family's tragic accident. She has wondered and even suspected that their death was not an accident. Over the last few years Maggie has started to become bitter towards God. It was hard for her to understand why He would take her family and leave her with pain that was  unbearable at times. I loved how the author took Maggie through painful memories and exposed her hardened heart. We all deal with grief in different ways. Maggie will face loss and watching her deal with it was so compelling.   With her grandmother's encouragement, Maggie will find herself asking God for forgiveness and help.   "God hears and answers prayer. Those answers are not always the ones we'd hoped for."

Nate was my favorite character. He loved his father dearly and was very saddened at his sudden death. Having been away from home, Nate is not familiar with how the family company runs. I think his pride got in the way a few times and maybe brought on some burdens that he was not ready for. He wanted to make his dad proud of him and was determined to run the company like his dad did. I suspect that Nate felt he was in over his head and I loved how he sought out spiritual guidance. "Kindness and humility will take you much further in life than pride and a stubborn heart."

I enjoyed the mystery that the author brought into the story. The death of Maggie's family was becoming more suspicious as Maggie started digging into the past. I was so sure I knew who was responsible, but the author  cleverly gave us several suspects. During the story several characters have kept  secrets that when exposed could destroy many  lives. Do you think it is ok to hide things for any reason?

One of the most powerful conflict  in the book was the strike brewing at his company  that was becoming more evident as Nate tries desperately to get both sides to communicate and comprise. Once again Nate's strong ability to do the right thing was weighing heavily on his shoulders. I loved how he  recognized that he needed to pray and have someone to guide him through this difficult time. There are wonderful examples in the story that show God's mercy and grace. The book is one that will reach into the depths of your soul and take you on a journey through pain, grief, anger, loss, pride and heal wounds, restore relationships and bring families  back together. I will end my review with this from the book, "It would  take God's intervention to change men's hearts and the power of the Spirit, working in and through him to see good."

I received a copy of this book from the author. The review is my own opinion.

Sunday, February 19, 2017


STRAIGHTENED by ALANA TERRY

I am so enjoying reading this series and getting to know Kennedy . She is a young college student that has faced many obstacles. The author always does a great job of tackling controversial subjects with grace . I have come to really appreciate her stories and love how she gives readers both sides of the subject. The author never gives her personal opinion but let's readers see the struggles that go with issues that may be difficult to handle.

In this story a young boy tells his father that he is gay. The father is shocked and does not  react the way the boy was hoping for. It opens the door for characters to question their own beliefs. I really had a heart for Noah as he struggles to be accepted. Don't we all want to be accepted regardless  of what some may think is wrong? The book not only deals with sensitive subjects but there is a death and mystery surrounding it. I love how the story weaves so gracefully and gives us many topics that had me asking myself   if I judge others simply because they believe differently then me. In the end , a sin is a sin. God doesn't say one sin is worse then another. The good news is we can be forgiven .

As I read the book, I felt the author showed through her characters how important  unconditional love is and the willingness to talk things through with each other. Misunderstandings can lead to hurt feelings and draw people away from each other. The subject of this book may be sensitive to some, but I am thankful for an author that is willing to write about it and do it with love and be nonjudgmental. I have to say this is one of my favorites of her books. It is a very eye opening book and really shows the strength that Kennedy has as she questions her own beliefs. My hope is that people will read this and come away with the knowledge that God loves everyone.

Wednesday, February 15, 2017

Death in Advertising
by Laura Bradford

A fun start to a new cozy series! It combines mystery, a variety of character personalities and even a budding romance.
~Storeybook Reviews
Tobi and the other characters are so likable that you’ll wish you had your hands on book 2 right away – not because there’s a cliffhanger (there isn’t) but because you just want to keep spending time with them.
~Reading Is My SuperPower
Death in Advertising has a fun, quirky set of characters (including a couple of African Gray parrots) and a story-line that kept me guessing. This is a great start to a new series from Laura Bradford.
~The Book’s the Thing
Death in Advertising was a fun, quirky mystery and I loved the humor that was laced throughout the story, which made it an absolute delight to read.
~Moonlight Rendezvous
Filled with humor and a story so well written will be guessing to the end.
~Shelley’s Book Case
Laura Bradford has seriously blown me away with this book!
~Lisa Ks Book Reviews
Honestly, if you wanted a cozy mystery to pick you up, make you smile, and even give you the chance to look at ad jingles differently this is an incredible book for you. Actually, just any reader looking for a five star book, should pick it up.
~Bibliophile Reviews
Bradford gives us plenty of interesting characters with a variety of motives…DEATH IN ADVERTISING is a promising start to a new series.
~Cozy Up With Kathy
The story is fast paced with surprises around every corner. I was engaged from the first chapter…
~Sapphyria’s Book Reviews

Death in Advertising (A Tobi Tobias Mystery)
1st in Series
Cozy Mystery
Publisher: Lyrical Underground (February 7, 2017)
Approximately 300 PAGES
ASIN: B01FBZXSFW

Synopsis

When Tobi Tobias decided to open her own ad agency, having to moonlight in a pet shop wasn’t part of her vision . . . of course, neither was murder.
Sometimes when opportunity knocks, the door you open leads to a closet. That’s certainly the case for Tobi, whose weekends spent cleaning cages in her best friend’s pet shop may soon be over. She’s just landed her first big break—Zander Closet Company needs a catchy campaign slogan ASAP, and Tobi thinks she’s got the right hook to knock ’em dead: “When we’re done, even your skeletons will have a place.”
But when a real dead body topples out of a showcase closet, she’s about to discover there is such a thing as bad publicity. To save her fledgling business and not get killed by the competition, Tobi takes on a new pet project: solving the murder. But with a stressed-out parrot as the only witness to the crime, Tobi will really have to wing it to put the cagey killer behind bars.


About The Author

While spending a rainy afternoon at a friend’s house more than thirty years ago, Laura Bradford (a.k.a. Elizabeth Lynn Casey) fell in love with writing over a stack of blank paper, a box of crayons, and a freshly sharpened number two pencil. From that moment forward, she never wanted to do anything else.
Today, Laura is the national bestselling author of the Amish Mysteries, the Jenkins & Burns Mysteries, and the Southern Sewing Circle Mysteries (written as Elizabeth Lynn Casey). A new cozy mystery series will be added to the mix in 2016 with the release of The Emergency Dessert Squad Mysteries. Laura is a former Agatha nominee and the recipient of an RT Reviewer’s Choice Award in romance. In her free time, Laura enjoys making memories with her family, traveling, baking, and visiting the sea lions at the Central Park Zoo. For more information and all the latest book news, visit her website at www.laurabradford.com.
Author Links
Twitter:  @bradfordauthor
  Purchase Links:
Barnes & Noble     Amazon


Review.jpg

I love to read new books in a series. You are introduced to the characters and start to really get to know them better. For some reason I started thinking who would be great to play the different characters when the story was made into a movie. The author did such a great job of making the characters so defined in their personality that I found myself casting the parts . The story was fun and full of surprises.

Tobi is a woman with dreams of opening her own advertising agency. She is struggling trying to get clients when she hits the jackpot. One slogan and she starts to see dollar signs. The slogan is funny and catchy and the clients are quite pleased . I did like the whole idea of the  closet system and how organized it would be for people. The slogan is genius and I thought the author had such a great sense of humor.

There are hints throughout the book that could have you pointing fingers at the wrong suspect. I did think the author masterfully detoured readers and gave many suspects to choose from. I didn't figure out who the killer was until just a few chapters from the ending. Mitzi who was married to the victim was a great character because she was presented as the trophie wife looking for money. She had an attitude that oozed with confidence and made men take a second glance at her. Did she kill her husband? Maybe it was  the faithful maid who adored her employer and was jealous of the new wife?

After reading the book I am looking forward to the next one in the series. The author captured my attention with her creativity and a mystery that is sure to keep you guessing.Grab your copy of this book and get comfy and enjoy an entertaining cast of characters. Don't be surprised when you start craving Cocoa Puffs.

I received a copy of this book from Great Escapes Book Tour. The review is my honest opinion.




Tour Participants
February 6 – StoreyBook Reviews – REVIEW
February 7 – Reading Is My SuperPower – REVIEW
February 7 – Books,Dreams,Life – SPOTLIGHT
February 8 – The Book’s the Thing – REVIEW
February 8 – Readeropolis – SPOTLIGHT
February 9 – A Holland Reads – SPOTLIGHT
February 9 – Moonlight Rendezvous – REVIEW
February 10 – Shelley’s Book Case – REVIEW
February 10 – Celticlady’s Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
February 11 – Lisa Ks Book Reviews – REVIEW  
February 11 – Bibliophile Reviews – REVIEW, GUEST POST  
February 12 – Cozy Up With Kathy – REVIEW, INTERVIEW
February 12 – Island Confidential – SPOTLIGHT
February 13 – Sapphyria’s Book Reviews – REVIEW
February 13 – Carstairs Considers – REVIEW
February 14 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW
February 14 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT
February 15 – The Ninja Librarian – REVIEW, GUEST POST
February 15 – Texas Book-aholic – REVIEW
February 16 – Varietats – REVIEW
February 16 – Author Annette Drake’s blog – SPOTLIGHT
February 17 – Girl with Book Lungs – REVIEW
February 17 – Jersey Girl Book Reviews – REVIEW
February 17 – deal sharing aunt – REVIEW
February 18 – Book Babble – REVIEW
February 18 – A Blue Million Books – INTERVIEW
February 19 – Mystery Thrillers and Romantic Suspense Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
February 19 – The Power of Words – REVIEW
Have you signed up to be a Tour Host?

Sunday, February 12, 2017


DAISY BELLE by JANICE THOMPSON

The cover of the book caught my eye right away. I love daisies. They are delicate, fresh smelling and come in a variety of colors. I opened the book and was transported back to Daisy, Oklahoma in the 1920s. The author does a great job of describing the town and giving some history on it. It made me think of another small town in Oklahoma that holds very fond memories. It is so refreshing when an author can have you relate to the story and feel as if you are home.

The townspeople are quite a bunch. I think one of  my favorite characters had to be the cranky woman in the story named Molly. She didn't care for the children that were staying at the orphanage and tried everything  she could to get rid of them. I loved her because even though she may have been mean on the outside, she so wanted to be needed by others. I think we can all relate to that feeling of wanting to be helpful and wanted. The author really does a good job of making Molly a vital part of the story.

Rena comes to town to take over running the orphanage and she has her hands full. The children are unruly and the house is in need of repairs. I loved how she went to Daisy, Oklahoma with an open heart ready to love the children. The children are full of energy and the pranks they play on Rena are comical. There are light hearted moments between Rena and the children that made the story very realistic.

Gene who is the sheriff is a great character with a heart for children. I loved his devotion to the orphanage and how he looked out for their well being. He is hoping that Rena will be able to give the children the love they long for. I found the story to be well written and loved how the emphasis was on being needed and loved. This is one story you won't be able to put down. The book is  filled with characters who want to make a difference, show love to others and a desire to feel needed. I highly recommend this book to those who like clean romances with laughter and sweet relationships.

Thursday, February 9, 2017



No one expected Barley to have an encounter with the Messiah.

He was homeless, hungry, and struggling to survive in 
first century Jerusalem. Most surprisingly, he was a dog.
But through Barley's eyes, the story of a teacher from 
Galilee comes alive in a way we've never experienced
before.
Barley's story begins in the home of a compassionate
woodcarver and his wife who find Barley as an
abandoned, nearly-drowned pup. Tales of a special
teacher from Galilee are reaching their tiny village,
but when life suddenly changes again for Barley,
he carries the lessons of forgiveness and love
out of the woodcarver's home and through
the dangerous roads of Roman-occupied Judea.
On the outskirts of Jerusalem, Barley meets a
homeless man and petty criminal named Samid.
Together, Barley and his unlikely new master
experience fresh struggles and new revelations.
Soon Barley is swept up into the current of history, culminating in an unforgettable encounter
with the truest master of all as he bears witness to the greatest story ever told.


Ron Marasco is a professor in the College of Communication and
Fine Arts at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles.
His first book, "Notes to an Actor," was named by the American
Library Association an Outstanding Book of 2008.
His second book, "About Grief," has been translated into
multiple languages, and he is currently completing a book on
Shakespeare's sonnets. He has acted extensively on TV-from
"Lost" to "West Wing" to "Entourage" to originating the role of
Mr. Casper on "Freaks and Geeks"-
and appeared opposite screen legend Kirk Douglas in the
movie "Illusion,"  for which he also wrote the screenplay.
Most recently, he has played the recurring role of Judge Grove
on "Major Crimes." He has a BA from Fordham at Lincoln Center
and an MA and Ph. D. from UCLA.



Find out more about Ron at http://www.thomasnelson.com/the-dog-who-was-there.






Review.jpg


I was drawn to this book because I found it fascinating to read about Jesus through the eyes of a dog. I instantly liked Barley and enjoyed his journey. The author really captured my attention from the beginning. Barley , along with his siblings and mother were having fun playing in the grass when someone decided to end their adventure. I felt myself holding my breath at the dramatic escape Barley made. The author really brings the story to realism with words that grasp your attention.

Barley is sweet, loveable and curious. He wanted to be accepted and loved and I thought that was a great addition to the story. We all go through life wanting to be loved and along the way we learn what unconditional love is through the teachings of Jesus. The book is well written and easy to follow. I loved the description of the time period and felt as if I were there walking along side Barley. I especially liked the many lessons Barley learned liked forgiveness, love, family and struggles throughout his journey.

Barley and people he meets along the way will encounter danger, compassion and a familiar story told in a way that leaves you weeping. I loved every moment of the story and found it hard to put down. It's a great book and relates to our own struggles with forgiveness . What would it be like to meet the Messiah?  I highly recommend this book to everyone.

I received a copy of this book from LitFuse Blogger Group. The review is my honest opinion.



Blog Tour Schedule:
2/2
Rebekah | Caffeinated Christian Raves - N - Reviews
Leah | As We Walk Along the Road
Sherry | My Journey Back
Margaret | Frugal Shopping and More
Jalynn | A Simple Life, really?!
Stacey | Books,Dreams,Life

2/3
Vicky | deal sharing aunt

2/4
Bree | Bibliophile Reviews
Joan | Book Reviews From an Avid Reader

2/5
Becky | Living Outside the Lines

2/6
Lena | A Christian Writer's World
Amanda | christianshelfesteem.wordpress.com
Gayle | BOOKS REVIEWS ETC
Hallie | Book by Book
Jeanette | Jeanette Morris, Author

2/7
Britney | Buzzing About Books
Stephanie | Wife Mommy Me
Terra | Heck Of A Bunch
Nancy | sunny island breezes
Kelly | God's Writer Girl Blog

2/8
Crystal | Our Perfectly Imperfect Life
Rita | Following31

2/9
Deana | Texas Book-aholic
Kim | Window To My World
Amanda | Inklings and Notions
Kristie | Moments
Maureen | Maureen's Musings

2/10
Connie | The Dog Who Was There
Julie | More Of Him
Aleah | House of Helton
Carole | The Power of Words
Lisa | Seeking with all yur heart
Lisa | Wicked Good Reads
Andi | Radiant Light
Ian | Reaching for Jesus
Rebekah | Caffeinated Christian Raves - N - Reviews

2/11
deb | deb's book review
stacie | perfect chaos

2/12
Karen | Karen's Korner
Julia | Christian Bookaholic

2/13
Mark | Thoughts of a Sojourner
Caroline | Under God's Mighty Hand
Debi | 2014 and Beyond!

2/14
Andrea | Two Points of Interest

2/15
Doreen | Doreen-renewing-strength.blogspot.com
Barbara | I'm Hooked on Books
Sarah | Running Through The Storms
Amanda | The Talbert Report

2/16
Brenda | WV Stitcher
Stacey | WORD Up!
Bethany | The Perfect beginnings
Michelle | New Horizon Reviews
Karen | LyonsLady
Amelia | Rejoice Evermore
Beth | For The Love of Books
Tammy | Tammy Is Blessed
christy | welcome to our world
Nancy | Nancy Famolari's Author Spotlight
Carrie | Reading is My Superpower
Rachael | The Davis Dailies
Colleen | Colleen Richman

Wednesday, February 8, 2017


STARS IN THE GRASS by ANN MARIE STEWART

Some books grab you right at the start and never let go even after the story is finished. This book is one of those. From the beginning it  had me crying as I read the horrific tragedy that the McAndrews family went through. I could see the family in shock and feel their despair as a life slowing passed away. Every moment seemed like it was in slow motion as the family tried to get through each day. The author has written a story that you will not forget as you ponder questions. How would you react if you saw a family member die right before your eyes? Could you work through your grief or stay bitter for years?

I loved the way the author tells the story through the eyes of a young child. It is a chilling and emotional journey as the family tries to  continue  their normal routine. The father is a preacher who must deal with his faith and continue to lead his congregation. When he shuts down what will happen to his church? Can he find his way back to God? We always hear that things happen for a reason. For this family they will each grieve in different ways and perhaps find answers that will help them heal.

I don't know how I would react to a tragedy like the one in the story, but the author does an amazing job of showing us the different ways that people handle grief. Some may turn their backs on everyone while others cry out for help. The book reached deep into the emotions of a family and delivers a powerful story of faith and hope that will leave readers emotionally drained. Will the family ever be close again? Does guilt turn into bitterness? Don't miss this story from an author that has the ability to make you feel the emotions of the characters with realism.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Monday, February 6, 2017


A CLASS OF HER OWN by JANICE THOMPSON

It is very hard for Laura to pick up the pieces of her life after the loss of her husband. She has a daughter and son that need her but there are days she can't seem to get motivated. I loved when Laura decided to go back to school to get  her Associates degree. She finds it hard to work and take classes but her determination kept her going. I did find it very funny when she runs into someone she knows in her class. Would it be awkward to be in college and find yourself sitting next to one of your children? The tension between mother and daughter was written with great emotion and realism.

Andrew Dougherty is a great history professor with some emotional baggage of his own. Andrew and Laura seem to clash a lot but it makes for some funny moments. I loved their interaction and attraction that slowly develops between them. Laura is still trying to deal with the death of her husband. She is angry at God. Can she find her way back to God? Will she forgive her husband for leaving her?

I loved this story for several reasons. I loved how the characters struggled with their relationship with God and how the author gave them feelings of anger, hurt and unforgiveness. We all have times when we become angry with God . Some of us walk away and never try to reconcile with Him. We allow our pride to take over and our hearts to harden. The story is about starting over, learning to forgive and letting go of anger. I couldn't put this book down because it really spoke to me and showed me areas where I had not  forgiven yet. I encourage everyone to pick up a copy of this wonderful story of starting over.

"He showed me that unforgiveness is like a prison. It holds us in its grip until we can't breathe."

Sunday, February 5, 2017


ONCE UPON A MOONLIGHT NIGHT by JANICE THOMPSON

The opening pages of this book was so heartfelt with the Rossi family sitting around the table eating . The description of the food was so good, I could smell the sauce and almost taste the delicious Italian cuisine. I loved reading how the family gets together to share meals and make memories.

Bella is a wonderful character who runs Club Wed. She is a busy person and sometimes puts her family on the back burner. Will she realize that she needs to slow down a little? It is nice to see how supportive her husband is and I thought he was an amazing character. In fact all the characters were so much fun I think I would like to join the Rossi family.

Bella really has her hands full when a local TV Meteorologist asks Bella to make her wedding special by having it at night under the stars. . The bride sure does  have some over the top requests which made for an entertaining story. The Splendora Sisters make an appearance in the story and I have to say I would invite them over anytime. They are funny, full of energy and make you feel right at home. As the wedding gets closer things seem to start to unravel a bit. Will the weather be perfect for an outdoor wedding at night ? Can all the food be made in time? The wedding cake was detailed so incredibly perfect I could see the sparkles on the cake and imagine the taste of the light and fluffy goodness.

I loved how the author used this story to remind us that our plans may not be God's plans for us. We get frustrated when things don't work out and become upset. I loved how the story centered around family and being content with what we have. Sometimes we need to slow down and enjoy our families and appreciate them. The Rossi family worked together through every obstacle and I loved the closeness they shared.

The day has arrived for the big wedding and you can feel the excitement as everyone scrambles to make this a wedding that the bride will never forget. Will Bella pull off the perfect wedding? Grab a copy of this fun story and find out what happens "Once Upon A Moonlight Night."

Saturday, February 4, 2017


RED LIKE CRIMSON by JANICE THOMPSON

Have you done something in your life that you are ashamed of? Have you made a mistake you wish you could change? Have you walked through life not being able to forgive yourself? All these questions run through Adrianne's mind constantly. When she was in college she met the man of her dreams.  Their love was contagious and they wanted to be together forever. One decision will change everything and put them on different paths.

Adrianne is working as a curator at a museum when she comes  face to face with her past. The man she ran away from back in college is standing right there in front of her. I loved Adrianne and her deep sense of faith. Now she must use her faith and trust God as she and Chris reconnect. It seems to be easier to forgive others than ourselves. Adrianne has carried a secret for so long and she knows it is time to let go of all the shame she has felt.

Chris has no idea why Adrianne suddenly left college that day and hopes to get answers . I loved his devotion to missionary work and how much his faith meant to him. Adrianne always knew his desire was to be a missionary and she couldn't bring herself to tell Chris all those years ago that she was pregnant. The story is so beautifully written as two people work through forgiveness. Adrianne seems to carry a heavy burden and hopes Chris will understand  why she kept his daughter a secret all these years. I loved the interaction between father and daughter as they got to know each other. The author has written a story that was emotional and filled with God's mercy. This is one story you won't be able to put down. Will Chris and Adrianne work things out?

I especially liked this story because it illustrates so eloquently how hiding secrets can hurt others. We all fight temptations and when we fail, God is there to give us mercy and grace. I loved how the author took two people and walked them through the past with compassion and shared the unconditional love that God gives us each day.

SALT WATER TAFFIE by JANICE THOMPSON

I absolutely loved everything about this book. The description of the boardwalk was so vivid I felt like I was there. I could hear kids laughing and see the shops filled with treasures. The author really does her homework while detailing how taffy is made. Wouldn't it be fun to sample different flavors of salt water taffy? The story is filled with wonderful characters and has a great feeling of family and love.

Taffie's family owns a candy shop which has been around for many years. You get a  glimpse of the authors wonderful sense of humor by the names of the three daughters. How would you like to be named Taffie, Candy or Tangerine? I found it quite endearing that the family business was so popular with tourists and was a staple for the community.

Taffie is learning the ins and outs of her family's business so her parents can retire. When the main machine breaks , a repairman is called to try to fix the machine. Ryan enters the shop and I could feel the sparks fly between him and Taffie. Their relationship is sweet and I thought Ryan was a true gentleman. As they begin to date the bond grows deeper. I loved when the two families meet. That was such a great scene with everyone talking and laughing. Two families enjoying food, laughter and memories.

I won't give away anything that makes the story so powerful but I will say that it  is filled with dreams, making decisions , family values and following God's direction. Grab a copy, get comfortable and enjoy Taffie and  Ryan's story.

Friday, February 3, 2017


THE WEDDING CAPER by JANICE THOMPSON

I just love reading books from this author. They always make me laugh and the way she use scriptures throughout the story is phenomenal. I loved the details she uses when describing the town and the different characters. I thought the story was funny, intriguing and filled with life lessons. It's funny how we judge others and come  to conclusions about them without a reason. I couldn't put the book down and boy was I surprised at the end.

Annie and Warren's twin daughters are both planning weddings. That is enough to have any father scrambling to find money to pay for all the expenses. He wants his daughters to have their dream weddings. After a burglary takes place at the bank Annie decides she knows who the guilty person is. Can you imagine thinking your own husband has stolen money from his own bank? She is such a great character and I really loved her sleuthing. She  kind of reminded me of Mrs. Fletcher from Murder She Wrote. Annie is hot on the trail of suspects and the town better watch out.

One of the best things in the story is the journey she takes to discovering how she suspects people who  are searching for acceptance, forgiveness and love. Do we sometimes look at someone and think that they don't fit in? Annie's bible scripture for each day is exactly what she needs. I love when God gives you direction through His word. As Annie tries to solve the mystery of the missing money, she discovers something about herself. Do we forget to spend time with our family because we are so busy doing other things? I loved the characters that Annie interacts with.  There  are some emotional moments in the story as she "interviews" her suspects that opens her heart to these people.  Don't miss this great story that keeps you guessing and along the way, reminds us to reach out and help others.