Plague of Unicorns by Jane Yolen ~ Review

My Review:

Cranford Abbey is plagued with unicorns who eat the treasured Hosannah apples, that are known to make the most heavenly cider.
James is a young boy, who always has a question at the tip of his tongue, yet no one is willing to take the time to answer them. When his father is lost during the crusades, James is sent to Cranford to learn from the esteemed monks.
Will he have the answer to the abbey's unicorn problem?

This a charming fairy tale like story, by skilled storyteller Jane Yolen. Laced with humor, and a charm that brought a smile to my face, I was quickly engaged  by this charming read. But as the book progressed I felt that it became rather drawn out and many of the endearing characters that I had enjoyed in the first part of the book all but disappeared, and even the tone of the book seemed to change and it began to feel more choppy.

Overall, this was a nice book, and still very enjoyable for children. Yet I felt that it lost momentum part way through, and never quite regained it, even near the end, which I thought was more than a bit rushed. James is a smart young man, and I liked how he had a hunger for learning. In the end though I really feel like this story has a lot more potential than was showcased in this book, I heard that it was previously published in a shorter version, so I wonder if that is why it didn't quite flow well in my personal opinion. But it really is a charming story for fans of fairy tales and unicorns.



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."

Beyond All Dreams by Elizabeth Camden ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Anna O'Brien is a map librarian in Washington D.C. in the Library of Congress, while reviewing the maps about where her father's ship went down she discovers a grave error. All Anna wants is answers, but the more she digs the more resistance she meets. Is it possible that there is something that they are hiding from her?

Luke Callahan is a powerful Congressman who suddenly finds himself demoted, befriends the demure librarian. Will the secret that he keeps, be worth the cost?

A novel whirl with intrigue and mystery, from the stately libraries of congress to the shores of Cuba, this is a novel that you won't want to miss!

With well rounded characters that I wanted to cheer for throughout, there was even a cameo from Theodore Roosevelt!

Overall, this was a well put together book filled with mystery and political intrigue! A riveting book that keep me turning the pages, dreading having to put it down! Definitely one I'd 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."

About the book:
Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they've ever dreamed for their futures?

Anna O'Brien leads a predictable and quiet life as a map librarian at the illustrious Library of Congress until she stumbles across the baffling mystery of a ship disappeared at sea. Thwarted in her attempts to uncover information, her determination outweighs her shyness and she turns to a dashing congressman for help.

Luke Callahan was one of the nation's most powerful congressmen before his promising career was shadowed in scandal. Eager to share in a new cause and intrigued by the winsome librarian, he joins forces with Anna to solve the mystery of the lost ship. Opposites in every way, Anna and Luke are unexpectedly drawn to each other despite the strict rules forbidding Anna from any romantic entanglements with members of Congress.

From the gilded halls of the Capitol where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation's finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they've ever dreamed for their futures?

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1BbxWeR

About the author: Elizabeth Camden is the author of six books and a RITA and Christy Award winner. With a master's in history and a master's in library science, she is a research librarian by day and scribbles away on her next novel by night. Elizabeth lives with her husband in Florida.

Find Elizabeth online: website, Facebook

Landing page:

http://litfusegroup.com/author/ecamden

Travel back in time to the U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress in Elizabeth Camden's newest release, Beyond All Dreams. From the gilded halls of the Capitol where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation's finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they've ever dreamed for their futures?

Elizabeth is celebrating the release of Beyond All Dreams with a Kindle giveaway and Facebook party on February 17.

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• One copy of Beyond All Dreams

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on 2/17. Winner will be announced at Elizabeth's 2/17 Beyond All Dreams Facebook author chat party. RSVP for a chance to connect with Elizabeth and historical fiction fans, as well as for a chance to win some great prizes!

{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK, TWITTER, or PINTEREST and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 17th!

To Save Her Child by Margaret Daley ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Ella moved to Alaska to escape an abusive relationship, and she wants to use her new life to help others by volunteering in search and rescue. But when her son the most precious thing in Ella's life going missing she must recruit the help of Josiah, who is determined to find the boy and return him to his mother.

But will they have what it takes to keep him safe?

Though Ella and Josiah appear from the outside to be very different, they find that they have more in common than they could have guessed with their secrets from the past.

Josiah was a great hero, kind, determined, and dedicated.

There was a lot going on, and I soon found that I couldn't put this book down! I liked that it had its suspenseful moments, yet it also had its softer moments that balanced it out and brought a rounded out full feel to the story. Fantastic 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."

Love Gently Falling by Melody Carlson ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Rita is a Hollywood hairstylist who returns to her hometown upon news that her mother has suffered a stroke. Rita immediately sets to work bringing life back into her mother's hair salon. While in town she reconnects with old friends and makes new ones too in this heartwarming romance.

I liked Johnny from the start with his "Jolly Janitors" van, and the way that he meets Rita including a misunderstanding.

While this was a sweet tale, I felt that it was rather predictable as far as romances go, but would make for a cute Hallmark movie. I'm not sure if this book was intended, like this author's previous books, to be a Christian book or not, but it didn't have much to suggest that it was supposed to be one.

Overall, this was a sweet hometown romance, yet it saddened me that Rita didn't seem to spend much time with her mother. There were some great endearing side characters, and hometown feel. A nice little 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."

The Case of the Jewel Covered Cat Statues by Cindy Vincent ~ Review

My Review:


A fun filled mystery/adventure fit for all ages, especially cat lovers!

Get ready to join Buckley and Bogey, as they solve yet another mystery!

It all starts with a mysterious break in to Buckley and Bogey's mom's antique store, yet nothing is stolen. Instead a mysterious package is left, will Buckley and Bogey be able to get the package to the rightful owners before it's too late?

A humorous, fun filled adventure, from beginning to end. I loved how this was the kind of book that even if you haven't read the previous book in the series.

Bogey is a sort of classic, no nonsense detective. Buckley is more curious and instinctive. Together they make a perfect team. I loved the humor and the way that they sneak about and get their "parents" to do some interesting things...


Overall, a fun read, perfect for cat lovers of all ages!

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:

Buckley and Bogey, Cat Detectives, find their next big case with the Buckley and Bogey Cat Detective Agency to be their most complicated ever! It all starts when someone hides a mysterious package in their Mom's antique store - in the middle of the night! Of course, the boys find it, and put it in a nice, safe place, until they can open it . . . and, find the rightful owner. But that's when a whole bunch of suspicious people show up in St. Gertrude, and every single one of them seems to be after that package! Holy Catnip! Plus, everything happens just when a priceless, jeweled statue collection goes on display at the St. Gertrude Museum. Missing from that collection are two jewel covered cat statues that disappeared almost a hundred and fifty years ago. But soon Buckley and Bogey wonder how long those statues will stay missing. Because this is one case that really keeps them on their paws! From a trip to the Museum, and to an old church for the Blessing of the Animals; and from dinosaurs to diamonds, they end up dodging shady suspects the whole time. It sure helps to have their friends with them, especially when the bad guys make a beeline for boys. That's because it becomes very clear, very quick - the priceless cat statues aren't the only cats those crooks are after! Holy Mackerel!

About the Author:

Cindy Vincent was born in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and has lived all around the US and Canada.  She holds an M.A.Ed, and is the creator of the Mysteries by Vincent murder mystery party games and the Daisy Diamond Detective Series games for girls.  She is also the award-winning author of theBuckley and Bogey Cat Detective Caper books, the Daisy Diamond Detective book series, and Cats are Part of His Kingdom, Too: 33 Daily Devotions to Understanding God's Love.  She lives with her husband and the real, live Buckley and Bogey, who run surveillance on her house each and every night. Find Cindy, Buckley, and Bogey online: website, Facebook

Hidden Agenda by Lisa Harris ~ Review

Astor's Review:

Like lighting a package of firecrackers, that go off one after another, the action never slows down in this intense thriller, and newest installment in the Southern Crimes Series.

Michael Hunt is an undercover cop, who's assignment has been blown wide open, ruining his cover. After an explosion that causes his friends and enemies to presume that he is dead, Michael must find a way to bring down the cartel, before his family finds out and is endangered.

With no where to go, and no one to trust, he finds an unlikely ally in the daughter of the man who wants him dead. Can he trust her with his life, and perhaps his heart?

Fast paced, and action packed, this is a thrilling and exhilarating read that had me on the edge of my seat the whole way through! With devious villains and a mind twisting and turning plot that will have you turning the pages in anticipation and anxiety.

A fantastic addition the series, with great characters, heartfelt moments and non-stop action. I can't believe this series is over! I couldn't wait to see what would happen next yet I was sad to see the story come to an end. Amazing read, I highly recommend it and the entire series!

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."

Emissary by Thomas Locke ~ Review

My Review:

On his 21st birthday, Hyam receives powers far beyond anything he could have imagined. Suddenly he finds himself involved in a rising war, as his powers are tested and his destiny is revealed.

The beginning drew me in, but as the story progressed I lost interest and got kind of lost. I really wanted to love this book, and I tried hard, but in the end I felt as if I didn't really have much of  a connection with the characters, and I felt more like I was seeing them from a distance rather than being right there beside them.

The world building was well done and from the first few chapters I was able to get a rudimentary grip on the society.

Overall, a new fantasy series about a young man searching for his place in the world, as he fights the evils rising about them. I know a lot of people who really liked this book, and I know that it will delight many fantasy lovers :)



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."

Draven's Light by Anne Elisabeth Stengl ~ Cover Reveal + Giveaway!

In the Darkness of the Pit

The Light Shines Brightest

Drums summon the chieftain’s powerful son to slay a man in cold blood and thereby earn his 

place among the warriors. But instead of glory, he earns the name Draven, “Coward.” When the 

men of his tribe march off to war, Draven remains behind with the women and his shame. Only 

fearless but crippled Ita values her brother’s honor.

The warriors return from battle victorious yet trailing a curse in their wake. One by one the 

strong and the weak of the tribe fall prey to an illness of supernatural power. The secret source of 

this evil can be found and destroyed by only the bravest heart.

But when the curse attacks the one Draven loves most, can this coward find the courage he needs 

to face the darkness?

Coming May 25, 2015

Pre-order your copy: HERE

Read an excerpt: HERE

AUTHOR BIO:

ANNE ELISABETH STENGL makes her home in North Carolina, where she lives with her 

husband, Rohan, a kindle of kitties, and one long-suffering dog. When she’s not writing, she 

enjoys Shakespeare, opera, and tea, and practices piano, painting, and pastry baking. She is the 

author of the critically-acclaimed Tales of Goldstone Wood. Her novel Starflower was awarded 

the 2013 Clive Staples Award, and her novels Heartless, Veiled Rose, and Dragonwitch have 

each been honored with a Christy Award.

To learn more about Anne Elisabeth Stengl and her books visit: 

www.AnneElisabethStengl.blogspot.com

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Steadfast Heart by Tracie Peterson ~ Review

Lucie's Review: 

Lenore wants one thing, true love. Not to have to marry for money, prestige, or convention, a luxury that may not be in her grasp.

This was rather a slow going read for me, it lacked interaction and meaningful dialogue between the main characters, something that is typically my favorite thing about a book.

My favorite character was probably Abrianna, Lenore's best friend at bridal school. She is deep thinker and devoted Christian, who feels called to care for the poor. She genuinely cares for people, and knows them all by name.

So many of the characters where well developed, yet I felt like there wasn't a strong direction for much of the book, that any of  the characters were moving towards.


So while this was a good book, I didn't love it.


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 Soul Painter by Cara Luecht ~ CFBA Tour and Review

Lucie's Review:

Miriam paints the people she sees below her window, but not just them. Their futures.

This was a  tricky book for me. It had a darkness to it that unsettled me.

One of the things that was different about this book was how I could never be sure of many of the characters, or their intentions. Which added yet another element of mystery to it. Sometimes I liked it and sometimes I didn't.

The side characters were richly developed, and I really like the Whitakers who were genuinely good people with good hearts. Michael didn't really sit well with me, I felt that he like Miriam more for her beauty than anything else.

Suspenseful, with many simultaneous storylines, weaving in and out of each other, it definitely has a a lot going on!

Overall, there are many great things about this book, and I know many people who absolutely loved it, but it just wasn't a good fit for me personally, I felt it was just much to dark for my tastes. Thank you.



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 Soul Painter WhiteFire Publishing (March 15, 2014) by Cara Luecht

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word from the Author:
I never planned to be a writer. In fact, it took me a while to finish college. But I did, and here I am. And I now I can’t imagine not being a writer.

By day, I am an English Instructor at MATC, Marketing Manager for Degnan Design Builders, Inc., mother to four amazing children, wife to an eternally patient and supportive husband, and Worship Leader for Living Hope Fellowship in Sun Prairie, WI. In the evening, when I can squirrel away some quiet time, I read and write historical fiction.

I have a B.A. in English Lit. from UW Whitewater and an M.F.A in Creative Writing from Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison, NJ.

If you have a question for me, or if you are local and would like me to stop by your book club or writer’s group, please drop me a line via the “Ask the Author” tab. I always love the opportunity to meet with others who share my love of books.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Miriam paints the future…but can she change it?

Chicago – 1890

Miriam watches the people jostle their way below the windows of her warehouse home, never thinking to look up at her as she paints their faces. But Miriam's gift as an artist goes beyond a mere recording of what is: Miriam paints their futures. Only once was she wrong. One woman doesn't match the future Miriam saw. The bright girl was supposed to grow into a respected businesswoman. Instead, Ione disappears nightly into the shadowed alley next to the cathedral with the other prostitutes. Then one night, while walking through the city fog, Miriam finds Ione broken and beaten. Miriam is forced to open her home to the stranger whose face she knows so well and open her life to change she never could have foretold. Women are missing—some found floating in the river, some never seen again. The deacon from the cathedral is the first to help. Soon Miriam’s solicitor, Michael, aids her in rejoining society so they might uncover the evil at work in the corrupt city...and awakens feelings she had never considered before. Finally engaged with the world she has so long observed, finally stirred by love and friendship, Miriam realizes the responsibility of her gifting. No longer can she just paint what will be. She must now help Ione find the future she is meant to have...and find her own along with it.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Soul Painter, go HERE.

Out of the Storm by Jody Hedlund ~ Review

My Review:

 Isabelle Thornton has lived on Presque Island with her father, the lighthouse keeper for years, lonely and with little hope for a future.
But when a wounded man washes up on the shore after a storm, Isabelle and her father take him in, and Isabelle slowly finds the loneliness slipping away and her friendship with Henry turning to something more...
Can Isabelle dare to hope for love, when she has a secret that could change everything?

A wonderful short story companion to Ms. Hedlund's new Beacons of Hope Series. The story moved quickly and I loved how the characters were developed quickly and naturally, by the end of the first chapter I already cared for Henry and Isabelle.

I really liked Isabelle's father, because even though he seemed harsh, he really just cared too much for Isabelle to chance seeing her hurt.

Overall, an enjoyable short story, with endearing characters. A great one to pick up while waiting for the next book in the series!

Bought for free on kindle :)

London Dawn by Murray Pura ~ Review

My Review:

The Danforth cousins come of age, fall in love, and go to war, as the saga continues in this final installment of The Danforths of Lancashire. at the dawning of WWII.

Reading this last book in the series, I was sad to say goodbye to this remarkable family, I feel as if I have watched all of the cousins grow up together as they grew in their faith, fell in love, and came of age.

Meticulously researched, and full of detail, Mr. Pura brings his settings to life in this family saga that follows multiple members of the Danforth family as they do their best to serve their country during this time of war.

Overall, a good conclusion to a great family saga.


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."

Brentwood's Ward by Michelle Griep ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Emily's father hires a Bow Street officer to protect his daughter while he is away.
Nicholas Brentwod takes the job because he needs the money to care for his dying sister. But his new responsibility is no easy task. As Emily wishes to use this opportunity to assert her independence, while Brentwood wants to keep her safe.

For the first half of the book Emily was very self absorbed, she spends her days shopping and scheming about how to catch a rich husband, but underneath it all she does care for those nearest her.

I really liked Nicholas from the start, he is observant, decisive, and confident. He is good at what he does and searches for clues as to what is going on, trying to be one step ahead of the people threatening Emily's life.

Action packed, and fast moving, with an intricate plot, and dashing hero, there is little to dislike in this regency debut that keeps one guessing until the very end.

Overall, an enjoyable read. With great characters, and while I didn't especially care for Emily at first, I liked her journey and came to like her by the end. A great book for regency fans!


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 Engagement Bargain by Sherri Shackelford ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Confirmed bachelor Caleb McCoy is more comfortable with animals than with humans, especially women. But after saving a woman who is shot he finds himself posing as her fiance in order to keep her safe.
Marriage isn't something that Anna thinks much of, but when the gentle veterinarian saves her life and offers to pretend to be her husband she can't help but notice the quiet strength about Caleb. And she can't help but wonder what it would be like to be his fiance for real.

I loved how Anna is genuinely touched by the stories of the women she meets and honestly wants to help them, and how she blossoms in small town living away from the high expectations of her suffragette mother.

One of the characters that made a big impact on me was Izetta Franklin, who is a good friend to Anna and openly shares her faith with her.

I loved the humorous elements to the story of which there were many, one even involving a goat who comes to church!

Overall, this was a great read from beginning to end. The mystery surrounding Anna's shooting keeps the story going, as well as the great interaction between her and Caleb. A great story!


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 Match for Addy by Emma Miller ~ Review

Lucie's Review:


Dorcas Adelaide Colbentz is considered to be a spinster by her community, and fears being alone forever. So her parents hire the local matchmaker, Sara Yoder, to help her find her match!
With Sara's help, Addy gains confidence and makes new friends, finally feeling at home with her community.
Will her newfound confidence help her catch the eye of a perspective husband?

I loved watching Addy grow and come into her own, as she transformed with the love and support of her wonderful friends. Ellie is a small person with a big personality who is to be the new schoolteacher, she quickly befriends Addy and supports her throughout.

Gideon Esch is a something of a player, never going home from a singing alone, he's used the attention and being part of the popular crowd. He isn't so sure about settling down anytime soon, but as Addy's steady friendship and kind ways began to work their way into his heart, he finds himself challenged and surprised by the beautiful young woman.

Overall, this is a great story, with great characters, and engaging throughout, with some surprises along the way. I loved how Gideon and Addy became friends and how it was genuine and never felt forced.  Sara is a great matchmaker with an eye for love, and wise advice. A delightfully 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."

The Fruitcake Challenge by Carrie Fancett Pagels ~ Review

My Review:

Tom Jeffries sets out to make a fresh start as a lumberjack so that he can support his widowed mother. But when he meets the spirited cook, Jo, he decides to issue a challenge. The Fruitcake Challenge. That the woman who makes a fruitcake like his mother, will be his wife.

Jo would like nothing more than to get out of the lumber camp and make a whole new life for herself, until Tom Jeffries saunters in with his big words and fruitcake challenge.

Will she be able to make a fruitcake like Mrs. Jeffries and win Tom's heart?

A lovely tale for Christmas or any time of the year. I loved how all the different fruitcakes recipes brought everyone together, I had no idea before reading this book that there were so many different variants of fruitcake!

Tom was a really nice guy under all of his bluster, and he had a real gift with the children. I loved how he was so dedicated to take care of his mother, and the others around him.

There was a great setting with many characters from all different backrounds. And I loved how it all came together. A sweet romance, sure to delight!

Thank you so much to Carrie Fancett Pagels who gifted me with a copy of this lovely book :)

The Daughter of Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky ~ Review

My Review:

Katherine Ramsey is excited to make her debut and capture the attention of a wealthy heir, and despite her horrible presentation to the royal family, she is doing her best to live up to Aunt Louisa's expectations, and secure an acceptable proposal. But when a young medical student crosses her path and surprises her with his genuine dedication to the Lord and helping those in need. She can't help but wonder if a different life is what she is being called to...

 The Daughter of Highland Hall more than lived up to my high expectations. Julia and William are making plans for their wedding, while Aunt Louisa is preparing Kate for her coming out...In typical Aunt Louisa fashion...

In this book Kate really comes into her own, leaving childish ways behind her, proving that she is so much more than a rich debutante. I loved Jon from the very first, he is a man of God with a true heart for helping others. I loved how he helped Lydia find her sister. Jon was probably my favorite character, because of his strength of character. He knew what he believed and always thought the best of others.

This was a engaging read, and though it took me a while to finish, (because I had to put it down to go to work and study for exams), I found that every time I picked it up again I remembered exactly what had happened last, so I could dive right back in. Which only serves to prove how memorable this book is!

Overall a fantastic read, that swept me away into the glamour and grandeur of a London season, filled with parties, suitors, as well as the east end, ravaged by poverty. I loved how Jon and Kate's friendship grew and they were both challenged by the obstacles that they faced. A book that I 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."

Gabriel's Atonement by Vickie McDonough ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Gabe is a gambler who sees gambling as a easy way to a successful way of life, that is until he get's involved in a tussle that finds a man with a wife and child dying in his arms. After that Gabe re-examines his life, and determines that the only way he can make things right is if he returns the money he won to the dead man's wife.
Lara Talbot is doing the best that she can to care for her son, Michael, her grandfather, and her sister, Jo. She hasn't seen hide nor hair of her husband in a long time.
So when a gambler shows up out of the blue telling her that her husband is dead and offering her money she is hesitant but as she struggles to take care of her family, will she realize that maybe this gambler is the man that God sent her?

Gabe really changes over the course of this book he goes from a gambler who cares very little about others, to an honest man caring for a widow and her family.

I really liked Lara's grandfather, he is a strong man of faith, who never waivers even through the circumstances. He wants to ride in the land rush even though he is suffering from swamp fever.

I liked that Gabe remembered what his mother taught him and how he helped Lara in the land rush.

Overall, a wonderful read, from beginning to end, with great characters, and a fantastic setting during the Oklahoma land rush.

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."

My New Year's Post

Happy New Year.

Yes this is late.

No, I didn't pick a word for the year or make any resolutions. Does a resolution not to make any resolution count? If it does, well dang it I already broke it.

Last year was really great, I made new friends and sadly grew apart from old ones. I spent much of my fall and early winter as a sleep deprived zombie studying for mid-terms, finals, and then boards. I have been informed that second semester will be worse...many more boards. But, I will be graduating in May!

Many of my dear friends will be embarking on new journeys and life paths in 2015, getting married, engaged, and moving away from their hometown. It's sad, exciting, exhilarating, scary, and downright terrifying. On one hand I am ridiculously happy for my friends and their new adventures, yet sad that that our childhoods are at an end. Hey, this wouldn't be a New Year's post without some sentimental reflection...I'll be praying hard and cheering everyone on!

So how has 2014 treated me? Well, I completed 2 semesters of schooling at WITCC, which was challenging yet not overwhelming, honestly looking back I probably made things harder on myself than I had to, but I'm excited for my final semester. I also participated in 2 choirs, where we sang classical selections, as well as Disney themes, modern pop songs. I served as a SPARKS leader in AWANA for my eighth year--which is completely crazy! I still work part time at Cracker Barrel, cashiering is pretty low stress so I don't mind. I have made so many meaningful friends at work, and can honestly say that they are fantastic each and every one of them! During the summer I attended my cousin's wedding, and rode horses in the mountains, and went to a few county fairs. I also saw Josh Turner in concert and went to my first midnight movie on the day after finals.

I'm looking forward to 2015 and what it will hold. Since I already broke my resolution, I decided to go ahead and make a few more...I know my logic is just so...logical.

1. Pray more
2. Read my Bible more.
3. Cut down on TV
4. Make an effort to maintain a healthy circadian cycle

Things I'm looking forward to in 2015 are:

1. Graduating
2. My best friend's wedding!!!
3. My brother's graduation (same day as friend's wedding, hopefully it will work out)
4. Visiting the mountains again
5. Finding a job

I really don't know what next year will hold, but I'm excited to find out! God bless, and have a great new year!

The Song by Chris Fabry ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Jed King is on a search to find and sing his own song, one different from his forebears and their broken families that came before, something new and his own, but he keeps falling back into old habits. But when he meets Rose, everything changes... for awhile anyways, until the old temptations come back to haunt him once again.

"When even the wisest men are fools in love, can true love persevere?"

This was a difficult book to read, with the foreboding sense that things would only get worse as the story progressed. Jed King grew up in a troubled and broken family, with many of the roots leading back to his relationship with his father, a singer/songwriter. Rose and and Jed's relationship is a bright spot in this rather hard to read account, I love how they met, fell in love, and their shared respect for each other at the beginning of their relationship.

I really liked Rose's dad, he had a gruff exterior, but he really was a great dad who just wanted the best for his daughter.

I felt so bad for Rose who had to live without Jed for long stretches at a time while raising their sweet little son, Ray. But I liked that she had a great friend at church to help her when things were tough.

Overall, a well written story about the struggle and toil that fame can take on personal relationships as well as the temptations. I wouldn't really say that this is a book I would read again anytime soon, because it was just so hard when I knew things would only get worse. I wished that the book had focused more on him making things rights, instead of him going so wrong. A tale of love, forgiveness, and redemption.



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."