Truth, Lies, and the Single Woman by Allison K. Flexer ~ Review

My Review: 

Truth, Lies, and the Single Woman is different from your typical relationship/singles book, it isn't about how to find the perfect person, or how to be the perfect person, or even about waiting for him to come around, and maybe best of all it isn't written by someone who is married.

I can't tell you how many books I read about relationships and waiting for your future husband to show up when I was a teenager and all of the books were written by people who had been married for years or who had married right out of college or high school. And I honestly couldn't relate to that.

But this book is different, in a good way. One of my favorite things about this book is that it talks about how being single is not a bad thing. It doesn't make you less of a person, and while I know this sometimes it is great to have a reminder with great biblical examples, like how Paul talked at length about how being single is actually preferable! And also don't wait to pursue your goals or follow God until you are married, do it now.

So many books I've read in the past are about waiting for The One, and biding your time until you find them. But is that really a realistic thing to tell people? Honestly, I've always kind of had the mindset that I'm not gonna sit on my behind waiting for what may or may not happen, but after reading this book I felt reaffirmed in that mindset. Because it's so easy to buy into the lies, and put your life on hold. But though this book may seem simple to most, and we say we know the lies and that they aren't true, there is something powerful in reading or hearing the truth about these subjects from someone else who has been through it too.

As I read through this book, I was encouraged and affirmed in my worth and my choices. And while not all of these lies applied to me personally, I could relate. If I could give this book to every Christian single (hopefully they wouldn't be offended), I would definitely do it. Ms. Flexer speaks honestly about the struggles and temptations to believe the lies like, "Because no one has chosen me, I'm not valuable." But she also exposes the truth, with scripture and experience. 

This is definitely a book that I would recommend. I enjoyed it immensely!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Miracle in a Dry Creek by Sarah Loudin Thomas ~ CFBA Tour & Review

Lucie's Review: 

Set in the small town of Wise, West Virginia, a place where everyone knows everyone else's business and what they don't know they make up.
Perla grew up in Wise, but her family moved away when she was young. Now grown, she's come back to live with her Aunt Delilah and Uncle Robert, along with her young daughter, Sadie. Which, as expected, causes plenty of speculation among the town folk of Wise...

This is a lovely Appalachian tale, set during the Depression, that reminded me of the Waltons, especially because of the Talbot sisters, Angie and Liza, who reminded me of the Baldwin sisters.

I liked how this was in many ways more of a story about the whole town and the people and how they reacted to the events around them.

Casewell, was a character who took a while to come around, but by the end was one of my very favorite characters and there is some great dialogue between Perla and Casewell.

This story is a good example of the human tendency to judge others and jump to conclusions, as well as the powerful of forgiveness.

Overall, a tale with a whole host of characters, with a setting that fits the story perfectly, with touches of humor and the harshness of the drought. Written in a an easy to read style, with a strong,  tenderhearted heroine, with a beautiful gift, Miracle in a Dry Season is a lovely, and touching tale.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Miracle in a Dry Season Bethany House Publishers (August 5, 2014) by Sarah Loudin Thomas

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Sarah Loudin Thomas grew up on a 100-acre farm in French Creek, WV, the seventh generation to live there. Her Christian fiction is set in West Virginia and celebrates the people, the land, and the heritage of Appalachia. Her first novel, Miracle in a Dry Season, releases August 2014 through Bethany House. Sarah is represented by Wendy Lawton of Books & Such Literary Agency.

A graduate of Coastal Carolina University in Conway, SC, Sarah once dreamed of being a marine scientist. But her love for words won out and she has spent much of her career in public relations and marketing. She currently oversees fundraising and communications for a Christian children’s home in Black Mountain, NC.

Sarah and her husband Jim live in the mountains of Western North Carolina with Thistle–the canine equivalent to a personal trainer pushing them to hike, run, and throw sticks. Sarah is active in her local church and enjoys cooking and–you guessed it–reading.

ABOUT THE BOOK

In a Drought, It's the Darkest Cloud

That Brings Hope

It's 1954 and Perla Long's arrival in the sleepy town of Wise, West Virginia, was supposed to go unnoticed. She just wants a quiet, safe place for her and her daughter, Sadie, where the mistakes of her past can stay hidden. But then drought comes to Wise, and Perla is pulled into the turmoil of a town desperately in need of a miracle.

Casewell Phillips has resigned himself to life as a bachelor. . .until he meets Perla. She's everything he's sought in a woman, but he can't get past the sense that she's hiding something. As the drought worsens, Perla's unique gift divides the town in two, bringing both gratitude and condemnation, and placing the pair in the middle of a storm of anger and forgiveness, fear and faith.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Miracle in a Dry Season, go HERE.

His Most Suitable Bride by Renee Ryan ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Mrs. Singletary is up to her old tricks again, making matches for her new friend and companion, Callie Mitchell. Callie dresses in drab clothing, with her hair pulled tightly back, she doesn't like to stand out in, she'd rather blend in and be invisible. But Mrs. Singletary will have none of that, and gives Callie a makeover.
Reese Bennett is Mrs. Singletary's attorney, and she offer to find him the perfect wife, a plan to which Reese reluctantly agrees to. Reese want a family, but he doesn't want to fall in love.
But Mrs. Singletary has plans to change both Reese's and Callie's minds.

This was a fun and enjoyable read, with an engaging storyline, great characters, great dialogue and several plot twists. This book has a host of colorful characters, including all the folks at Charity House and the indomitable Mrs. Singletary.

Both Reese and Callie are memorable characters, with journeys of faith an confidence. They have to overcome obstacles in their lives, as well as stumbling blocks of the past.

Overall, this was a fun read with touches of humor, and great interaction between the characters. I also enjoyed coming back to Charity House, and Mrs. Singletary and her match making ways! A lovely read.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

The Identical Soundtrack Sampler ~ Review + Giveaway

My Review:

When I received an invitation to review this music soundtrack, I knew I couldn't resist. This soundtrack sampler contains 12 out of the 20 songs featured in the movie, with sounds from classic Rock n' Roll, to Jazz, Blues, Disco,Classical, and even Bluegrass!

I was surprised at how diverse the music on the soundtrack was, I mean from the promotional art I was expecting the songs that were more "Elvis-sounding" and the Classical theme, but I was surprised by the Disco and Bluegrass.

While I will willing admit that there were many songs on this soundtrack that weren't my personal style, I say that it was an enjoyable listen. There was no objectionable content, and the lyrics were clean.

Overall, a great sneak peek into an upcoming movie!



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

About the film:

The IDENTICAL tells the compelling story of twin brothers unknowingly separated at birth during the Great Depression. DREXEL HEMSLEY becomes an iconic 50’s rock ’n’ roll star, while RYAN WADE (Blake Rayne) struggles to balance his love for music and pleasing his father. The Reverend Wade (Ray Liotta) and his wife (Ashley Judd) are sure their adopted son has been gifted and called by God to be a preacher. But Ryan challenges his parent’s vision for his life, and unflinchingly chooses to launch his own music career with his best friend (Seth Green). Encouraged by his wife (Erin Cottrell) and employer (Joe Pantoliano), Ryan embarks on an unpredictable, provocative path - performing the legendary music of Drecel Hemsley in sold out venues all across the country. 

As the brothers destinies tragically collide, Ryan discovers that Drexel is his identical twin which leads him to question everything he’s ever believed about God, family, and his own identity.

About the Soundtrack Sampler:

THE IDENTICAL ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE SOUNDTRACK SAMPLER features 12 of the 20 original songs by Jerry Marcellino and Yochanan Marcellino from the film. Including “Your Love’s Keepin’ Me Tonight,” “City Lights,” “Angel of Mine,” “Everybody Knows It” and “Nashville Tonight."

Check out the official movie website here: http://theidenticalmovie.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IdenticalMovie

Be sure to share the trailer, which can be found here: http://youtu.be/MxWVXHatVDA

And if you’re interested in getting some friends together to see THE IDENTICAL, we have a group ticket opportunity http://seatzy.com/main/bulkrequest/the-identical

Coming to theaters September 5th.

Giveaway of The Identical Soundtrack Sampler. Open to US residents only. Ends September 6th.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Deputy's New Family by Jenna Mindel ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Beth Ryken is a second grade teacher who loves her job and cares about her students. But her newest student, Corey Grey tugs at her heart more than most.
Beth's mother lives right across from the school, so she offers to watch Corey after school so Beth can help him with his reading and get to know his handsome father.
When Beth finds out about his job, Nick Grey understands her hesitancy. But he committed to helping Corey improve in school an getting back to his faith.
Will he be able to win Beth's heart?

This was a sweet story, with great side characters and interaction between the main characters. It was fast moving and easy to read, with an upbeat lively feel to it. It is a story that celebrates family and moving on from hurts of the past that make it hard to trust God.

I loved Beth's mom, and the adorable dog that followed Corey around everywhere.

Overall, a well written story with wonderfully well developed characters. And definitely a great dramatic ending that I can't tell you about! Definitely a book I would recommend!




Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

A Bouquet of Love by Janice Hanna Thompson ~ Review

Lucie's Review: 


A boisterous, laugh out loud funny return to Galveston Island, with a brand new family. The Pappas have just moved to town from California and are opening a Greek restaurant right across from Parma John's the restaurant owned by the Rossi's. An immediate rivalry grows between the two families, especially between the two fathers.

Cassia Pappas is used to her father's over the top marketing schemes, but she's having more than a little trouble viewing the Rossi's as the enemy. It seems like everyone she meets is either a Rossi or married to one and they are all so nice and welcoming!

But the one who makes the biggest impression on Cassia is Alex Rigas, the handsome half-Greek, all cowboy, who appreciates the beauty in flowers. And is not without his Rossi connections as well.

Can Alex and Cassia ever be more than friends despite the rivalry between their loved ones?

An utterly delightful read, filled with humor, and sweet romance. Terrific characters, I loved the friendships between the various characters the most, and how kind they were to Cassia. Especially Bella and Marcella who were quick to welcome Cassia.

This book does s terrific job of making you feel like you are right there amidst the craziness and fun.

Overall, this is a fun read with a full cast of characters, many of which you may recognize from previous books in the series. Lots of lively dialogue, many laughs, and a sweet romance!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

In Perfect Time by Sarah Sundin ~ Reveiw

My Review:

Flight nurse Lt. Kay Jobson has ever had trouble charming men, keeping her well balanced pyramid of men on a string is her forte. None are immune to her charms, that is, except for the bible-thumping pilot Roger Cooper. In fact, Roger seems to turn tail and run the other way when ever he sees her coming.
But as the war rages they are brought together time and again. Can Roger helps heal the hurts from Kay's past and help her understand a loving God?


I've been waiting to read Kay's story for a long time, I had high hopes, and this book delivered. In this book we get to see a more vulnerable side of Kay, her struggles, fears, and concerns. And she grows so much over the course of this book.

I liked Roger from the start, an All-American boy who understands Kay, better than she could have ever imagined. Plus, he is really great with children, I loved how the little Indian boys called him Raji :)

Overall, this was a terrific installment to a fantastic series. And I loved how this story overlapped with Mellie and Georgie's stories as they supported Kay, and were amazing friends to her. Well, written  and engaging this is definitely a series that I would heartily recommend!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Captured by Love by Jody Hedlund ~ Review

My Review:

Ms. Hedlund just gets better with every new book, and this book is no exception!

Angelique long for safety, for security against the changing temperaments of her step-father and his new wife, the hunger, and the British soldiers that wring the colonists dry.
When her childhood friend, Pierre Durant comes back to Michilimackinac Island, Angelique is hurt and confused. But as their friendship begins to turn into something more, Angelique finds herself even more confused as she has already promised herself to Pierre's brother, Jean.
How can Angelique stay true to her promise when her heart longs to be somewhere else?

A well told story, set on Michilimackinac Island during the war of 1812, shows the struggles faced by the families stuck between the British and American forces, with tensions high. I can honestly say that I don't think I ever thought about places like Michilimackinac before and what they went through during the war, but Ms. Hedlund really brought the backwoods community/army barracks setting to life, and I can tll that she put a lot of research into making it so realistic.

Angelique was a heroine that I liked from the very start, she was beautiful inside and out, humble and hard working, I loved how she put the needs of Miriam before her own. She was bright, yet vulnerable, and heroine that had me cheering for her from the very beginning.

Pierre was a rakishly handsome trapper, hard to read at times, yet with a heart of gold.

Overall, this was a fantastic read, and quite possibly my favorite from Ms. Hedlund yet! The characters and their situations were well defined, and I was swept up into the story, not wanting to put it down. Compelling, and action packed, with great romantic tension, this is not a book that you will want to miss! Highly recommend.


Thank so much Ms. Hedlund for letting me read and review your wonderful book!

Prelude for a Lord by Camille Elliot ~ Review

Lucie's Review:  Spellbinding!!!

I was quickly drawn into the story and I couldn't put it down!

Lady Alethea Sutherton is a heroine that is very easy to connect with, she is smart, strong, and talented. Alethea plays the violin, an instrument that is socially unacceptable for a woman to play in 1810. But this is not just any violin, it is the instrument left to her by her teacher, mentor, and friend, Lady Arkright when she died.
When someone tries to buy and then steal the violin, Alethea's aunt asks a friend for help, who in turn enlists the assistance of Lord Dommick.
Dommick is not without problems of his own, such as protecting his sister Clare from a treacherous suitor, and making sure that her season is a success. But after meeting Alethea, he is drawn to the mystery of the violin...

There is so much to love about this book. The setting is realistic, and gives a real feel for the social restrictions and interactions of life in Bath. The dialogue was so well, not only engaging but also perfectly appropriate for the era.

I loved the wide array of side characters who added color and dimension to the plot, especially the camaraderie between Domick and his friends Ian and Raven. Also the relationship between Alethea and her half-sister, Lucy.

The mystery, was well done, and compelling, also fitting erfectly with the faith aspects of this wonderful read!

This is the best regency novel that I have read in a while. It perfectly combines mystery, suspense, romance, action, interaction, poignancy, along with touches of humor. And there is so much more that I haven't even mentioned in in this review! Highly recommend!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

The Covered Deep by Brandy Vallance ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

This book follows Bianca Marshal from the small town in Ohio where she grew up to London and then the Holy Land. It's the trip of a lifetime that she won by writing an answer to an advertisement her father found in the paper from an English lord.

There are many other people on the trip with Bianca, Mrs. Madeline Greene, Mr. Tabor & Paul Emerson. But it soon becomes apparent as their journey progresses that everyone except Bianca is hiding something, and that Sir Adrian has brought them all together for reasons of his own...

My favorite character had to be Paul Emerson. He tells Bianca his conversion story right off the bat, but he soon realizes that she also needs to hear about his past. Paul is a man who stays true to his faith, and is completely honorable.

There are many interesting details about the Holy Land shared in this book, and I also think that it did a great job of capturing the tensions, unrest, and prevalent there. Though I will mention that there was content that  I don't think would be appropriate for younger readers.

This book was slow to start, and while it did pick up, it also jumped around from character to character more often than I liked.  The interaction between the characters was strong, with themes of faith and forgiveness, though there were times when I felt a bit lost in some of the scenes.

Overall, this was a very interesting and unique read. I'll admit that it wasn't always easy reading for me, but I did for the most part enjoy it because by midway through I was hooked. Definitely a very different read for me.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Reading Challenge Conclusion

So the reading challenge didn't go quite the way I expected as I found myself watching some TV so I didn't finish the books I wanted to, but I do feel like I made some great headway. Today I will be focusing on posting reviews, since I now have more than a few to give :) So definitely be on the lookout for some new reviews from my mother and I :D

Visible Threat by Janice Cantore ~ Review

Astor's Review:

Continuing from the first book in the series, Brinna Caruso and Jack OReilly are back for another gripping adventure.

When a dead girl is found in the river, with a mysterious tattoo on her hip Brinna and Jack team up to solve the mystery, but what they find may be far darker than they could have imagined..

Will they be able to save the innocent before it is too late?

This is a thrilling series full of non-stop adventure, action, and great emotional and spiritual depth. Brinna, Harold, and Jake are a great team as they fight for the truth and uncover the cruel realities of a fallen world.

Full of multiple twists and turns along the way. I appreciated how this wasn't just an action-packed adventure, but also had great emotion depth, dialogue and humor, adding to the lively pace.

Brinna's struggles with her faith were realistic, especially considering her job and what she saw everyday. And I have loved watching her grow in her faith through this series.

Overall, an all around awesome read, that I would highly recommend!



This is a book that our family owns, not part of a review program.

Reading Challenge #1

Finished Captured by Love by Jody Hedlund and I must say that I loved it and I think that it is one of her best books to date! Absolutely fantastic!

Started In Perfect Time by Sarah Sundin, and reading on and off Si-cology 101 by Si Robertson, along with Doctor Who: Blood Cell by James Goss, and London Dawn by Murray Pura. :)

Here's an Update

I don't know about you but I've been pretty busy this summer, working, visiting relatives, attending a cousin's wedding, getting ready for school, going to a Josh Turner concert, spending time with friends, and blogging, I can't believe summer is almost over!

But the impending end of summer isn't all bad, though there are some serious drawbacks, like having to go back to school (for those of you who don't will be completing my second year of Dental Assisting training this coming fall and spring). But there are many perks to it as well, such as the return of my favorite TV shows like Doctor Who for one ;) It will be a busy nine months to say the least, as I will be juggling my part-time job, school, AWANA, blogging, choir, and hopefully still making time for friends and reading :)

As far as I know I will still be blogging, but right now I'm playing it my ear, as I've already got a handful of titles set for review this September as well as a fun giveaway that may be in the works :)

So in anticipation of my future crazy schedule I am challenging myself to a 12hr reading challenge to see how many books I can knock off of my currently-reading pile, would you believe that I am in the middle of 5 right now?

I will post an update sometime during the challenge and then again afterwards. Tomorrow you will probably see some reviews as a result :)

The Bravest Princess by E.D. Baker ~ Review

My Review:

The adventures of the Wide-Awake Princess continue in this sweet mash up of fairy tales.

Annie's sister Gwendolyn is finally marrying her prince, yet Annie cannot help but still feel like an outcast as many of the guest avoid her, afraid of being as beautiful as they are made by magic. But when her friend Snow White calls on her for help, she and Liam travel to her kingdom to help her find her missing evil stepmother and find true love.
Will they be able to rise the challenge and find the evil queen before it is too late?

A humor laced fairy tale, from E.D. Baker. Funny and sweet, this book was a welcome read for me, as I have long been a fan of E.D. Bake since around the time that her hit Frog Princess was a brand new book.

I think my favorite thing about this book was how all of the princes were vying of Snow White's hand, in their own silly and at times insincere ways. Especially as some of the princes were returning characters from previous book in the series, some of them even had once tried to court Gwen (Sleeping Beauty).

One of my favorite characters had to be Dog, who was of course a dog, but he could talk. And he had a way of saying things in just a typical guileless, straight out honest way that I thought perfectly  captured his character.

Overall this was a great installment in the series, and for me it was a bit of a throwback to when I was younger and read these types of books more frequently. Definitely a fun book for fans of princesses and fairy tale adventure!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

The Wrangler's Inconvenient Wife by Lacy Williams ~ Review

Lucie's Review:


I thoroughly enjoyed this fast-paced western adventure.

It starts out with a bang, or rather, a train wreck. Which set the wonderfully fast pace, that was filled with plenty of action and adventure along the way! Ethan White is a true cowboy hero, even though he tries to hide it behind his beard and gruff demeanor.

Fran will do almost anything to protect her sister, Emma. She lied about her age so that they could go together on the Orphan Train, and she agrees to marry a man she just met in order to provide protection for both herself and her sister.

I appreciated the dialogue and humor between Ethan and his brothers. Which added another dimension to the story and gave it so much more depth.

Fran was my favorite character, as city girl from Tennessee she is faced with many challenges and adjustments, yet she tackled them without a complaint as well as showing great wisdom and courage in building a relationship with Ethan.

Overall, this was a completely enjoyable story, and one of the best westerns that I've read in a long time, with realistic depictions of cattle drives and other details. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a great romantic read!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

The Healer's Touch by Lori Copeland ~ Review

Lucie's Review: 
 Lyric Bolton's life has never been easy. Everyone in Bolton Holler gives Lyric and her sister, Lark a wide berth because they believe that their mother is crazy.

Then one night something crashes through their barn door and Lyric finds a strange man's body so battered and bruised that he is not recognizable. Lyric figures that he is not long for this world, but he miraculously wakes up, with no memory of who or where he is. As she get's to know him and as he heals he begins helping around the house, she begins to doubt her previous suspicions about him...


One of my favorite things about this book was the humor and interaction between Lyric and Joseph. There was also a pretty funny ornery horse that brought a smile to my face, because he was sweet as pie to the girls, but stepped on Joseph whenever he got half a chance.

It took a while but eventually the main characters were interacting and there was action and drama a plenty.

Overall, this was a very enjoyable read, I loved how important faith was to both Lyric and Joseph, and they kept trusting despite the hardships they faced. Just an all around terrific book from Lori Copeland!



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

A Heart to Heal by Allie Pleiter ~ CFBA Tour

Lucie's Review:

Heather Browning has a heart for the hurting. As a guidance counselor at Gordon Falls High School she will do almost anything to help the students there succeed, especially Simon who is in a wheelchair. She will even put up with her friend JJ's brother, Max "Hot Wheels" Jones.

Max faces everything head on. Even being in a wheel chair, he has flames on his car and wheelchair, and doesn't mind calling attention to himself wherever he goes. He personality is quite the opposite of the timid Simon whom he is supposed to be helping. But Max surprises himself with how much he really does want to help Simon and prove to Heather that he can be a good mentor.

This book starts out strong, with well developed and interesting characters. Max does a lot of growing up and we see great changes in his character and faith.  Heather has amazing communication skills and she helps Max see his fall in a whole new way, even when she's mad at him she doesn't tear him down.

But I was very disappointed by the way homeschooling was portrayed in this book, like it was the worst possible option for Simon, and how it made Simon's parents out to be villains for deciding to do so. And I found Max's attitude towards Simon's parents to be childish and disrespectful throughout most of the book, though he did come to his senses later.

Overall, this was a sweet romance with great characters and side characters like Violet Sharpton, who was one of my favorites. An entertaining romance.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing A Heart to Heal Love Inspired (July 15, 2014) by Allie Pleiter

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Enthusiastic but slightly untidy mother of two, Allie Pleiter writes both fiction and nonfiction. An avid knitter, harp player and non-reformed chocoholic, she spends her days writing books, doing laundry, running carpools and finding new ways to avoid housework. Allie grew up in Connecticut, holds a BS in speech from Northwestern University and currently lives in suburban Chicago, Illinois. The "dare from a friend" to begin writing eight years ago has blossomed into a career that includes numerous public speaking engagements, two books on parenting; Becoming a Chief Home Officer and Facing Every Mom's Fears and now novels for Steeple Hill Books. She is the mother of two children and, most recently, a Havanese dog named Bella.


ABOUT THE BOOK

The Courage To Hope.

Guidance counselor Heather Browning is desperate. She needs a mentor to help Simon, a disabled student who is struggling at Gordon Falls High School. Unfortunately, hotshot Max Jones is her only option. Confrontational and cavalier, Max uses his flashy persona to hide the bitterness he's felt since his life-changing accident. Perpetually cautious, Heather finds Max's bad-boy bravado as intriguing as it is infuriating. But as Heather and Max work together to build Simon's self-confidence, they begin to trust each other. Max has never been slow and careful with anything. Can he be gentle with Heather's heart?

Gordon Falls: Hearts ablaze in a small town.

If you'd like to read the first chapter of A Heart to Heal, go HERE.

The Butterfly and the Violin by Kristy Cambron ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

This book was a wonderfully unexpected surprise. Engaging from the beginning it kept me glued to the page throughout.

This novel beautifully weaves two stories together, one from the present day and one from the past centered around a picture found in a concentration camp. The stories blend well, switching with ease between the times.

I loved the fact that even though this is a work of fiction, that it was based on real situations and the story felt authentic and realistic, like it really could have happened.

The main characters were fantastic, and well developed, with great dialogue that moved their relationships. There were also many wonderful side characters, one of my favorites being Omara who helped Adele survive not just physically, but also gave her hope.

I learned so much about Auschitwitz, and how there really was a women's orchestra and many works of arts were found inside the camp.

Overall, this was a fantastic read that I would highly recommend, it had everything and more, drama, romance, heartbreak and hope. And it explores how people, even when surrounded by such horror found ways to create beauty and worship God. Once I started reading it I didn't want to stop!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

About the book: A mysterious painting breathes hope and beauty into the darkest corners of Auschwitz---and the loneliest hearts of Manhattan.

Manhattan art dealer Sera James watched her world crumble at the altar two years ago, and her heart is still fragile. Her desire for distraction reignites a passion for a mysterious portrait she first saw as a young girl---a painting of a young violinist with piercing blue eyes.

In her search for the painting, Sera crosses paths with William Hanover, the grandson of a wealthy California real estate mogul, who may be the key to uncovering the hidden masterpiece. Together, Sera and William slowly unravel the story behind the painting's subject: Austrian violinist Adele Von Bron.

A darling of the Austrian aristocracy, talented violinist, and daughter to a high-ranking member of the Third Reich, Adele risks everything when she begins smuggling Jews out of Vienna. In a heartbeat, her life of prosperity and privilege dissolves into a world of starvation and barbed wire.

As Sera untangles the secrets behind the painting, she finds beauty in the most unlikely of places: in the grim camps of Auschwitz and in the inner recesses of her own troubled heart.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/zhXo3

About the author: Kristy Cambron has been fascinated with the WWII era since hearing her grandfather's stories of the war. She holds an art history degree from Indiana University and received the Outstanding Art History Student Award. Kristy writes WWII and Regency era fiction and has placed first in the 2013 NTRWA Great Expectations and 2012 FCRW Beacon contests, and is a 2013 Laurie finalist. Kristy makes her home in Indiana with her husband and three football-loving sons.

Find Kristy online: website, Facebook, Twitter

Landing page:

http://litfusegroup.com/author/kcambron

Welcome to the launch campaign for debut novelist Kristy Cambron's The Butterfly and the Violin. Romantic Times had this to say: "Alternating points of view skillfully blend contemporary and historical fiction in this debut novel that is almost impossible to put down. Well-researched yet heartbreaking. . . ."

Kristy is celebrating the release of the first book in her series, A Hidden Masterpiece, with a fun Kindle Fire giveaway and meeting her readers during an August 7th Facebook author chat party.

 One winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• The Butterfly and the Violin by Kristy Cambron

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on August 7th. Winner will be announced at The Butterfly and the Violin Author Chat Party. Kristy will be connecting with readers and answering questions, sharing some of the fascinating research behind the book, hosting a fun book chat, and giving away some GREAT prizes. She will also be giving an exclusive look at the next book in the series, A Sparrow in Terezin!

So grab your copy of The Butterfly and the Violin and join Kristy on the evening of August 7th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 7th!