Out of the Ordinary Review

Miss Gertrude Cadwalader hoped her position as the paid companion to Mrs. Davenport would be easy. But as she becomes acquainted with her employer, she realizes the wealthy Mrs. Davenport has a strange tendency to be a bit light-fingered with other people's trinkets. Gertrude is relieved when Mrs. Davenport decides to have a quiet summer away from the social scene--until the woman changes her mind in order to help a young socialite launch into society. 

When Gertrude is caught in the act of trying to return one of the trinkets by Mrs. Sinclair, the mother of shipping magnate Harrison Sinclair, the woman jumps to an unfortunate conclusion. Harrison is determined to mend fences with Miss Cadwalader, but he's unprepared for the escapades a friendship with her will entail.

Out of the Ordinary by Jen Turano is a wonderfully delightful read. Right away you start off with the signature humorous antics of Turano's characters. Gertrude is an easy character to like, their is no way that you can get through the opening scene and not be enchanted with Gertrude. Harrison and Gertrude make quite the pair, they are for sure to have you laughing out loud at the situations they get into. Any book by Jen Turano is the perfect gift for any historical fiction reader on your gift list. Please pick up this series and enjoy it as much as I do!

5 out of 5. 

I received a copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review. 

Lady Jayne Disappears Review

When Aurelie Harcourt's father dies in debtor's prison, he leaves her just two things: his wealthy family, whom she has never met, and his famous pen name, Nathaniel Droll. Her new family greets her with apathy and even resentment. Only the quiet houseguest, Silas Rotherham, welcomes her company.

When Aurelie decides to complete her father's unfinished serial novel, writing the family into the story as unflattering characters, she must keep her identity as Nathaniel Droll hidden while searching for the truth about her mother's disappearance--and perhaps even her father's death.

Lady Jayne Disappears is the fantastic debut novel by Joanna Davidson Politano. The book has a vintage feel to the way that it's written that instantly grabbed my attention. I loved feeling like I was picking up a beloved classic every time I sat down to read. Aurelie is a sweet, somewhat naive character who's narration drives this story. I'm glad that Joanna Davidson Politano is now on my radar because I can't wait to read whatever else she comes up with in the future. Please do yourself a favor and read Lady Jayne Disappears. 

5 out of 5.  

I received a copy of this book from Revell for my honest review.

Dangerous Illusions Review

Trish Bailey is on overload trying to deal with a demanding job, an ailing mother, and a healing heart. When a series of unsettling memory lapses leads to a tragic death--and puts Trish under police scrutiny--her world is once again thrown into turmoil.

Detective Colin Flynn isn't certain what to think of the facts he uncovers during his investigation. Did Trish simply make a terrible mistake or is there more to the case than meets the eye? As he searches for answers, disturbing information begins to emerge--and if the forces at work are as evil as he suspects, the situation isn't just dangerous . . . it's deadly.

Dangerous Illusions is the first book in the Code of Honor series by Irene Hannon. Once again Irene gives us an amazing new series to fall in love with. Trish is a character that from the beginning my heart immediately went out to. The mystery/suspense that filled this books pages to the brim had me on my seats edge the whole time. As with past books, I love how Irene jumps from the POV of the main characters to the villain. It always make me feel more involved with the mystery. Another great book and I can't wait for the second in the series!

5 out of 5. 

I received a copy of this book from Revell for my honest review.

Too Far Down Review

When an explosion kills men and damages the CR Mining Company, the Bodens realize their troubles are not behind them as they thought. Shadowy forces are still working against them. 

Cole Boden finds himself caught between missing his time back East and all that New Mexico offers. Sure he fights with his siblings now and then, but he does care for them. He enjoys running the mine and, when he's honest, he admits that Melanie Blake captures his interest in a way no other woman ever has.

Melanie has been a friend to the Bodens forever. A cowgirl who is more comfortable with horses and lassoes than people, she never expected to find herself falling for someone. Particularly for refined Cole Boden, a Harvard graduate who may not stay long at the ranch. She's determined, however, to help the Bodens finally put an end to the danger that's threatened all of them. But will putting herself in harm's way be more dangerous than anyone expected?

Too Far Down by Mary Connealy is an amazing conclusion to her Cimarron Legacy series. Mary's done it once again, with her signature humor, romance, and action. I loved both Cole and Melanie and their story is the perfect wrap up to this series. I've fallen in love with this family and while I'm sad to see this series come to an end, Too Far Down was a great ending. These two characters with their differences and chemistry make up another amazingly written pairing by Connealy, I can't wait to read what she comes up with next! 

5 out of 5. 

I received a copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

An Inconvenient Beauty Review

Griffith, Duke of Riverton, likes order, logic, and control, so he naturally applies this rational approach to his search for a bride. While he's certain Miss Frederica St. Claire is the perfect wife for him, she is strangely elusive, and he can't seem to stop running into her stunningly beautiful cousin, Miss Isabella Breckenridge.

Isabella should be enjoying her society debut, but with her family in difficult circumstances, she has no choice but to agree to a bargain that puts her at odds with all her romantic hopes--as well as her conscience. And the more she comes to know Griffith, the more she regrets the unpleasant obligation that prevents her from any dream of a future with him.

As all Griffith's and Isabella's long-held expectations are shaken to the core, can they set aside their pride and fear long enough to claim a happily-ever-after?

An Inconvenient Beauty by Kristi Ann Hunter was a wonderful conclusion to the Hawthorne House series. After starting this series in the middle (I hadn't realized that the third book was part of a series) I fell in love with these siblings and their stories. I have loved each character and will have a hard time letting them go. That being said I couldn't have asked for a better ending to this series. I have to admit that while I loved Griffith in the past books I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy him as the main character... Boy was I wrong! Griffith and Isabella both stole my heart, the situations they got into endeared them to me even more then previous characters. An Inconvenient Beauty is a must read as is the rest of this series! 

5 out of 5. 

I received a copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

Bringing Maggie Home Review

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Decades of Loss, an Unsolved Mystery, 

and a Rift Spanning Three Generations

Hazel DeFord is a woman haunted by her past. While berry picking in a blackberry thicket in 1943, ten-year old Hazel momentarily turns her back on her three-year old sister Maggie and the young girl disappears.

Almost seventy years later, the mystery remains unsolved and the secret guilt Hazel carries has alienated her from her daughter Diane, who can’t understand her mother’s overprotectiveness and near paranoia. While Diane resents her mother’s inexplicable eccentricities, her daughter Meghan—a cold case agent—cherishes her grandmother’s lavish attention and affection.

 

When a traffic accident forces Meghan to take a six-week leave-of-absence to recover, all three generations of DeFord women find themselves unexpectedly under the same roof. Meghan knows she will have to act as a mediator between the two headstrong and contentious women. But when they uncover Hazel’s painful secret, will Meghan also be able to use her investigative prowess to solve the family mystery and help both women recover all that’s been lost?

Bringing Maggie Home by Kim Vogel Sawyer is another amazing book by one of my favorite authors. The story of the DeFord women was a touching story that is sure to resonate with every reader in some way. The heartbreak and second chances mixed with the intrigue and mystery made this book hard to put down once I picked it up. Each women's story will hit you in a different way and you won't be the same after reading Bringing Maggie Home.

5 out of 5.

I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.

These Healing Hills Review

Francine Howard has her life all mapped out until the soldier she planned to marry at WWII's end writes to tell her he's in love with a woman in England. Devastated, Francine seeks a fresh start in the Appalachian Mountains, training to be a nurse midwife for the Frontier Nursing Service.

Deeply affected by the horrors he witnessed at war, Ben Locke has never thought further ahead than making it home to Kentucky. His future shrouded in as much mist as his beloved mountains, he's at a loss when it comes to envisioning what's next for his life.

When Francine's and Ben's paths intersect, it's immediately clear that they are from different worlds and value different things. But love has a way of healing old wounds . . . and revealing tantalizing new possibilities.

These Healing Hills by Ann H. Gabhart was an enjoyable read. Set in the Appalachian Mountains I loved getting to know about the Frontier Nursing Service through Fran's story. Fran was a character that I immediately connected with and I also loved the many secondary characters throughout the story. The historical detail in These Healing Hills was also wonderfully weaved into Fran and Ben's fictional story. It's a perfect read for these first few days of fall, just look at that cover! 

5 out of 5.

I received a copy of this book from Revell for my honest review.

All She Left Behind Review

Already well-versed in the natural healing properties of herbs and oils, Jennie Pickett longs to become a doctor. But the Oregon frontier of the 1870s doesn't approve of such innovations as women attending medical school. To leave grief and guilt behind, as well as support herself and her challenging young son, Jennie cares for an elderly woman using skills she's developed on her own. When her patient dies, Jennie discovers that her heart has become entangled with the woman's widowed husband, a man many years her senior. Their unlikely romance may lead her to her ultimate goal--but the road will be winding and the way forward will not always be clear. Will Jennie find shelter in life's storms? Will she discover where healing truly lives? 

All She Left Behind by Jane Kirkpatrick was not my favorite book from this author but it was wonderfully written. I've enjoyed her writing style in past books by her but with this book I just couldn't seem to be able to invest myself in Jennies story as much as I wanted to.  The writing is the same historically rich style that I've come to expect of Jane Kirkpatrick's books and while I din't connect with Jennie I enjoyed the history involved in her story. 

4 out of 5. 

I received a copy of this book from Revell in exchange for my honest review.

The Day the Angels Fell Review

It was the summer of storms and strays and strangers. The summer that lightning struck the big oak tree in the front yard. The summer his mother died in a tragic accident. As he recalls the tumultuous events that launched a surprising journey, Samuel can still hardly believe it all happened. 

After his mother's death, twelve-year-old Samuel Chambers would do anything to turn back time. Prompted by three strange carnival fortune-tellers and the surfacing of his mysterious and reclusive neighbor, Samuel begins his search for the Tree of Life--the only thing that could possibly bring his mother back. His quest to defeat death entangles him and his best friend Abra in an ancient conflict and forces Samuel to grapple with an unwelcome question: could it be possible that death is a gift? 

The Day the Angels Fell by Shawn Smucker was a different kind of book then I usually like to read. And I really loved it! I enjoyed the style Smucker wrote in and I really enjoyed how he used the dual perspectives of both older and younger Sam. This supernatural tale is full of suspense and mystery as well as hope. The Day the Angels Fell is a classic good vs. evil story and I can't wait for a sequel.

5 out of 5.

I received a copy of this book from Revell for a honest review.

The Two of Us Review

After two broken engagements, nurse practitioner Mia Robinson is done with dating. From now on, she only trusts herself and God, and she's focused on her eighteen-year-old sister, Lucy, and caring for patients. Just as she applies to work for an international aid organization, a phone call from Lucy, who's pregnant and running off to marry her twenty-one-year-old boyfriend, throws a wrench into all of Mia's plans.

Jake Tanner may have recovered from the physical injuries he sustained on the job as a police officer, but his heart has yet to heal from losing his former partner in the tragedy. He's poured himself into starting a camp for the sons of fallen officers and mentoring Sam, the adult son of his deceased partner, who's asked him to be his best man at his wedding. 

Mia is expecting a mess when she arrives to sort out the situation with Lucy, but she wasn't expecting Jake. And Jake, who can't help envying Sam and Lucy, doubts he'll ever experience their happiness for himself. But maybe Jake's courage and Mia's caring spirit are just what they need to bring them a lifetime of healing and a forever kind of love. . . 

The Two of Us is another amazing read by by Victoria Bylin. I loved reading about Jake and Mia as well as Lucy and Sam. Mia struggles to let herself trust others after past situations and I enjoyed watching her growth throughout the book. The author also did an amazing job portraying the reality of Alzheimer's with her writing of Jake's parents journey.  Another thing I absolutely loved was the epilogue. I'm the kind of girl who always wants a happy ending and I adore it when the author gives me an "a few years later" kind of epilogue. It always makes it a little easier to close the book.

5 out of 5. 

 I received a copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

Over Maya Dead Body Review

FBI Special Agent Serena Jones arrives on Martha's Vineyard with her family, ready for a little bit of R&R and a whole lot of reminiscing as they celebrate the engagement of an old family friend. But crime doesn't take a vacation, and she's soon entangled in an investigation of a suspicious death tied to an antiquities smuggling ring.

When her investigation propels her into danger, Serena must stay the course and solve this case before anyone else dies. But just how is she supposed to do that when the two men in her life arrive on the scene, bringing with them plenty of romantic complications--and even a secret or two?

Over Maya Dead Body by Sandra Orchard was an amazing addition to the Serena Jones Mysteries. I loved, loved, loved it. Serena is such an easy character to relate with and her family, especially a certain Aunt, make it easy to fall in love with this series. Also, no spoilers, but I fully agreed with Serena's choice at the end. The only complaint I have is that it feels like this is the last book in the series and I still want more. I could easily read a three more books focused on Serena.

5 out of 5. 

 I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Revell in exchange for my honest review.  

The Road to Paradise Review

An ideal sanctuary and a dream come true–that’s what Margaret Lane feels as she takes in God’s gorgeous handiwork in Mount Rainier National Park. It’s 1927 and the National Park Service is in its youth when Margie, an avid naturalist, lands a coveted position alongside the park rangers living and working in the unrivaled splendor of Mount Rainier’s long shadow. 

But Chief Ranger Ford Brayden is still haunted by his father’s death on the mountain, and the ranger takes his work managing the park and its crowd of visitors seriously. The job of watching over an idealistic senator’s daughter with few practical survival skills seems a waste of resources.

When Margie’s former fiancé sets his mind on developing the Paradise Inn and its surroundings into a tourist playground, the plans might put more than the park’s pristine beauty in danger. What will Margie and Ford sacrifice to preserve the splendor and simplicity of the wilderness they both love?

The Road to Paradise by Karen Barnett in an enchanting novel featuring a national park that, while I have not yet had the pleasure of visiting in person, felt as thought I had time traveled there while I turned the pages. I love national parks and the beauty that is contained in them and can't help but fall in love with Karen's portrayal of this past version of Mount Rainier. But while the pictures Karen painted of the park were enthralling the character. The Road to Paradise is an amazing read for national park lovers or really anyone who love a good story. 

5 out of 5. 

I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.

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Beloved Hope Review

Hope Flanagan survived the massacre at the Whitman Mission, but at terrible personal cost. Safe now in Oregon City, she lives with her sisters, Grace and Mercy, and Grace's new husband, Alex. As she spends her days tending their flock of sheep, Hope's mind and soul are slowly healing. Yet, though she was once surrounded by suitors, she has no interest in giving her heart again after the man she loved died in her arms.

Hope's precarious new peace is shattered when those responsible for the massacre are captured and put on trial. She is asked to testify against them, but she's not sure she can bear to relive the events of those horrific days.

As Hope struggles to free herself from the pain of her past, Lance Kenner, an Army lieutenant, brings an unexpected ray of light into her life. But what will Lance think of her if he learns the truth behind her anguish? And what secrets lie in his past?

Beloved Hope is another home run by Tracie Peterson. The second book in her newest series, Heart of the Frontier. Hope, the middle sister of the Flanagan girls is the center on attention in this story of forgiveness and learning to love after loss. Both Hope and Lance have pasts that they would prefer to forget and leave behind but together they learn to grow and put their past in God's hands. Beloved Hope is a must read novel that explores forgiveness and the growth and hope you can experience once you let go of your hurt and pain. 

5 out of 5. 

 I received a copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

Heart on the Line Review

Grace Mallory is tired of running, of hiding. But when an old friend sends an after-hours telegraph transmission warning Grace that the man who has hunted her for nearly a year has discovered her location, she fears she has no choice. She can't let the villain she believes responsible for her father's death release his wrath in Harper's Station, the town that has sheltered her and blessed her with the dearest friends she's ever known.

Amos Bledsoe prefers bicycles to horses and private conversations over the telegraph wire to social gatherings with young ladies who see him as nothing more than an oddity. His telegraph companion, the mysterious Miss G, listens eagerly to his ramblings every night and delights him with tales all her own. For months, their friendship--dare he believe, courtship?--has fed his hope that he has finally found the woman God intended for him. Yet when he takes the next step to meet her in person, he discovers her life is in peril, and Amos must decide if he can shed the cocoon of his quiet nature to become the hero Grace requires.

Heart on the Line by Karen Witemeyer was a perfect addition to the Ladies of Harper Station series. I love Grace and the courage she shows throughout the book and Amos's character is the perfect companion to her. One of the many things I enjoyed about Heart on the Line is that Amos is not your stereotypical western hero but he still manages to steal your heart. I also love the secondary story line that goes on in this book and could have read a whole book with just those characters involved. Harper Station is quickly becoming one of my favorite fictional settings and I can't wait for the next book!

5 out of 5. 

 I received a copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

Just Look Up Review

After tirelessly climbing the ranks of her Chicago-based interior design firm, Lane Kelley is about to land her dream promotion when devastating news about her brother draws her back home―a quaint tourist town full of memories she’d just as soon forget. With her cell phone and laptop always within reach, Lane aims to check on her brother while staying focused on work―something her eclectic family doesn’t understand.

Ryan Brooks never expected to settle down in Harbor Pointe, Michigan, but after his final tour of duty, it was the only place that felt like home. Now knee-deep in a renovation project that could boost tourism for the struggling town, he is thrilled to see Lane, the girl he secretly once loved, even if the circumstances of her homecoming aren’t ideal.

Their reunion gets off to a rocky start, however, when Ryan can’t find a trace of the girl he once knew in the woman she is today. As he slowly chips away at the walls Lane has built, secrets from his past collide with a terrible truth even he is reluctant to believe. Facing a crossroads that could define his future with Lane and jeopardize his relationship with the surrogate family he’s found in the Kelleys, Ryan hopes Lane can see that maybe what really matters has been right in front of her all along―if only she’d just look up.

Just Look Up by Courtney Walsh is a wonderful, sweet novel full of romance, faith and family. I quickly connected to the characters and the message relayed through this story. "The very best things are found when we just look up". This statement is perfect for today's world with it's many distractions, whether it be simply looking up from our phones to the people and places around us or "looking up" on a spiritual level. Overall I loved this book and look forward to rereading it in the future. 

5 out of 5. 

 I received a copy of this book from Tyndale House in exchange for an honest review.

Wings of the Wind Review

Alanah, a Canaanite, is no stranger to fighting and survival. When her family is killed in battle with the Hebrews, she disguises herself and sneaks onto the battlefield to avenge her family. The one thing she never counted on was surviving. 

Tobiah, a Hebrew warrior, is shocked to find an unconscious, wounded woman among the Canaanite casualties. Compelled to bring her to a Hebrew healer back at their camp, he is soon confronted with a truth he can't ignore: the only way to protect this enemy is to marry her.

Unused to being weak and vulnerable, Alanah submits to the marriage--for now. As she comes to know and respect Tobiah and his people, however, she begins to second-guess her plans of escape. But when her past has painfully unanticipated consequences, the tentative peace she's found with Tobiah, the Hebrews, and Yahweh is shaken to the core. Can Alanah's fierce heart and strength withstand the ensuing threats to her life and all she's come to love?

Wings of the Wind by Connilyn Cossette was a gripping tale of biblical times. I quickly fell in love with both Alanah and Tobiah and in their story of love, forgiveness and second chances. Wings of the Wind is an amazing fictional account of the times of wandering for the Hebrews after their escape from Egypt. If you're anything like me you won't be able to set this story down until you reach the end. Connilyn Cossette is my favorite new biblical fiction writers.

5 out of 5.

I received a copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

Written In Love Review

When a postal error creates pen pals of two young Amish people, can they put behind their past mistakes to see the bright future God has written for them?

Jalon Chupp has a past he isn’t proud to claim. He’s worked hard to overcome his youthful mistakes, and he has recommitted himself to his faith. When he receives a sweet note included in a piece of misdirected mail, he can’t help but write back. Soon, the letters he receives from Phoebe are the highlights of his days, and with a hopeful heart, he suggests they meet in person.

Phoebe, too, looks forward to every single one of Jalon’s letters. Living with her overbearing aunt, Phoebe doesn’t have too much to look forward to. But when Jalon suggests they meet, she panics—although she has shared some of the deepest longings of her heart with him, she hasn’t been entirely truthful about her past. But when Jalon shows up at her aunt’s doorstep, everything is revealed. And she can only pray he’ll forgive her for holding back the truth.

In order to reach beyond the errors of their pasts, both Phoebe and Jalon must put their faith in something—or Someone—bigger than either of them could pen.

Written in Love by Kathleen Fuller is a sweet novel that is easy to fall in love with. It starts off with just the letters between the two of them, spanning a few months, and then merges into storytelling, creating a beautifully captivating blend. Phoebe and Jalon are two people both with broken and painful pasts that grow closer through their letters. I thoroughly enjoyed reading their story and getting to know these characters. Written in Love is the perfect book to add to your summer reading list.

5 out of 5. 

I received a copy of this book from BookLook in exchange for my honest review.

Long Time Gone Review

The Boden clan thought their problems had ended with the death of a dangerous enemy, but have they truly uncovered the real plot to take their New Mexico ranch? Rancher Justin Boden is now in charge. He is normally an unshakable and rugged man, but with his brother, Cole, shot and in mortal danger, even a tough man faces doubts. And it doesn't help that Angie DuPree, the assistant to the doctor trying to save Cole, is as distracting a woman as Justin ever laid eyes on.

With her and the doc's timely skills, Cole looks to be on the mend, and Justin and the rest of the Bodens can turn their attention back to the dangers facing them. It's clear now that everything that's occurred is part of a much bigger plot that could date back to a decades-old secret. Can they uncover all the pieces before danger closes in on them, or is the threat to the ranch even bigger than any of the Bodens could imagine?

Long Time Gone by Mary Connealy is a wonderful continuation of the Cimarron Legacy. In this book we get to delve into Justin's story as well continue with the mystery that started in the first book, No Way Up. I love Angie, who has all the characteristics that I love in a Mary Connealy book. Faith, family, romance and mystery all abound in Long time Gone and should push this book to the top of your reading list (and all Mary Connealy books as well!).

5 out of 5.

I received a copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

Grace and the Preacher Review

At the age of twenty-three, postmistress Grace Cristler has all but given up hope of finding a husband among the narrowing group of eligible men in her town of Fairland, Kansas. But when her uncle decides to retire from the pulpit, Grace is responsible for corresponding with the new preacher set to take his place. She can’t deny the affection growing in her heart for Reverend Rufus Dille—a man she deeply admires but has only met through his letters.

 

Theophil Garrison is on the run from his past. Ten years ago his outlaw cousins convinced him to take part in a train robbery, but Theo fled the scene, leaving his cousins to face imprisonment. Now they’ve finished their sentences, but the plan for vengeance has just begun. Branded a coward and running for his life, Theo has a chance encounter that could provide him with the escape he needs.  

 

But the young man’s desperate con might come at an enormous price for the tenderhearted Grace—and the entire town. Will Grace’s undeserved affection and God’s mercy make something beautiful from the ashes of Theo’s past?

Grace and the Preacher by Kim Vogel Sawyer is such a sweet story. I loved both main characters, Grace and Theo, with Kim's style of writing you get to dig a little deeper into each of these characters thought and I love the connection I feel towards them because of it. I also loved Aunt Bess, her spunky attitude and wisdom made me wish she was my own aunt. Grace and the Preacher is a great story of grace, forgiveness, and calling. I suggest you add this to the top of your reading list, next to all of Kim's other books!

5 out of 5. 

I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.

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Still Life Review

Blacklisted in the photography business over a controversial shot, Avery Tate answered an ad for a crime scene photographer. She expected to be laughed at, but crime scene analyst Parker Mitchell hired her outright--and changed her life. But six months ago, when her feelings for Parker became too strong, she left his employ to sort out her heart. 

Now, for the first time, Avery is facing the world that rejected her to attend the gallery opening of a photography exhibit and support her best friend, who modeled for the show. But the only image of her friend is a chilling photo of her posing as if dead--and the photographer insists he didn't take the shot. Worse, her friend can't be found. She immediately calls Parker for help. As Avery, Parker, and his friends in law enforcement dig into the mystery, they find themselves face-to-face with a relentless and deadly threat.

Still Life by Dani Pettrey is the second book in the Chesapeake Valor series. This book was full of mystery and twists that could keep you up reading all night. Dani has an amazing story telling style and creates compelling characters. Avery and Parker are a great duo and I enjoyed every minute with them trying to figure out the mystery. The moment I read the back cover copy I knew this was the type of book I would love and I was not disappointed. 

5 out of 5. 

I received a copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

The Sisters of Sugarcreek Review

Many lives were changed the day a fire burned down Faith Community Church, devastating the small town of Sugarcreek, Ohio.

Now a young Amish widow, Lydia Gruber faces an uncertain future. Her husband, a craftsman and volunteer firefighter, always took care of everything, keeping her isolated from others in their community. Without anyone or any skills, how will she survive?

With the death of her beloved aunt Rose in the fire, single mom Jessica Holtz inherits Rose’s Knit One Quilt Too cottage. Though determined to keep the shop open in her aunt’s memory, she doesn’t know the first thing about knitting and quilting and begins to see her aunt’s dream slip through her fingers.

When Liz Cannon lost her dear friend Rose, she also lost her partner in the Secret Stitches Society―the name they gave themselves while delivering gifts of hope to troubled folks in the dark of night. Liz convinces Jessica to keep the anonymous society going, despite the younger women’s inadequacy with knitting and sewing needles. But soon Liz has problems of her own as the life she has rebuilt for herself begins to crumble again.

When Liz and Jessica choose Lydia for their first mission, the three women cross paths and form an unlikely friendship in the aftermath of tragedy. As they walk together through triumph and heartbreak―through grief and new chances at love―they begin to discover that with friends by your side, a stitch of hope can be found anywhere

The Sisters of Sugarcreek by Cathy Liggett was such a sweet read. I loved all three of these women's stories and really hope that the author lets us dive into their world again. The mixture of these three women's sweet friendship is woven perfectly with the more serious topics that this book covers. Liz, Jessica, and Lydia all come from different backgrounds that might make there friendship seem unlikely but through one town tragedy they come together and find out they aren't too different.

 5 outof 5.

 I received a copy of this book from Tyndale House in exchange for an honest review.

Also check out these fun resources I received from the publisher! Yummy recipes as well as random acts of kindness cards that might encourage you to maybe make your own secret stitches society!

         Random Acts of Kindness Cards
     Amish Friendship Bread Recipe
         Lemon Bars Recipe
         Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
        White Chocolate Chex Crunch Recipe
Stitching-hope-through-random-acts-of-kindness

The Angel of Forest Hill Review

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A time of anticipation. A season of miracles.
Because of Joel’s impossible situation, twenty-one-year-old Rose must sacrifice everything. As days pass into years in the midst of the beautiful hills, the laughter of children, and God’s providence—is it too much for Rose to hope for love in return?

An amazing journey toward love and belonging, filled with the wonder of the season of Christ’s birth.

When Old Order Amish Rose Kurtz is asked to leave her family, travel deep into West Vir­ginia, and help Joel Dienner with his children in the wake of tragedy, the quiet young woman recognizes a home where she might find kindness instead of criticism and hope replacing harsh words. She agrees to stay in Forest Hill and become Joel’s wife for the sake of his family needs, but their marriage is to be a partnership, one built from need, not love and affection.

As the years pass, Rose continues to beckon Joel to join life again, to take joy in his growing children, and to awaken his heart to the possibility of new love. Joel hopes that Rose can move beyond deep-rooted hurts to see the beautiful Christmas ahead, their season. But will the arrival of a beautiful widow and a series of misunderstandings reverse how far Rose and Joel have come?

The Angel of Forest Hill by Cindy Woodsmall is a great short story. Sweet and perfect for Christmastime. (As well as anytime after if your like me and wouldn't mind Christmas all year long!) The story of Rose and Joel is sure to be one that tug on your heartstrings. Being a Novella The Angel of Forest Hill is a really quick read and sadly over sooner than you want it to be because the characters are so enticing. I recommend this to anyone who loves Amish fiction or just Christmas (who doesn't?!).

5 out of 5

I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.

Because You're Mine Review

Amid the beauty of Charleston, not all is as it seems.

When her husband Liam is killed by a car bomb while their Celtic band is on tour in Charleston, singer and Irish beauty Alanna doesn’t quite know where to turn. Her father-in-law is threatening to take custody of the baby she carries, but Alanna knows she can’t lose the only piece of Liam she has left.

Alanna’s manager offers her a marriage of convenience to obtain U.S. citizenship and allow her to escape her father-in-law’s control. It seems like the perfect solution until she arrives at the family home of her new husband—a decaying mansion with more questions than answers.

Strange things begin happening that threaten Alanna’s life and the life of her child. Are they merely coincidences? Or is something more sinister at work?

A mysterious painting, a haunting melody, and a love stronger than death leave Alanna questioning where darkness ends and light begins.

First off let me say that this cover is gorgeous! The coloring and style is perfect! Okay, I'm done gushing....

Because You're Mine by Colleen Coble was a very gripping read. Once you pick it up you have to keep turning the pages to find out the answers. This book is unlike any of the other Colleen Coble books I have picked up and read and I enjoyed Gothic feeling. Because You're Mine is much more of a psychological thriller than a mystery, at least to me because I very quickly caught on to the mystery aspect of the plot. A good read if you don't mind books that give you that chill down your back as you read.

4 out of 5. 

I received a copy of this book from BookLook in exchange for my honest review.