Defy by Sara B. Larson ~ Review

My Review:

Alexa Hollen is a respected member of Prince Damian's personal guard, forced to disguise herself as a boy to escape the horrors of the Breeding Houses. After a threat to Prince Damian's life that takes the life of her twin brother, Marcel, Alexa finds herself seeing that there might be more to the arrogant and mysterious Damian than she thought.

When the Prince, her good friend Rylan, and she are taken captive by a strange and mysterious sorcerer, it is up to her to discover the truth, and who their real enemies are, but will her growing feelings for Damian get in the way?

Ms. Larson has created a spellbinding world, medieval in setting, fantastical, fast-paced, action-packed, romantic, and filled with drama. I connected immediately with Alexa, she is strong and brave, yet vulnerable and her brother is her rock. She has a strong moral compass, and she is determined to do her duty by serving the crown prince even though he seems spoiled and entitled.

I loved the world that Ms. Larson created with the perfect blend of realistic-ness and fantasy, because often the downfall of fantasy novels is the rules of the magic being used, for surely there are limits, and oft times authors can get so involved explaining the magic's rules that it can slow down a story. But I liked how she brings it into the story through Alexa's eyes, and as she comes to learn more about it over the course of the story. Also I liked how the consequences of events and decisions carried through and were not forgotten, like how you see the corruption of a kingdom through the breeding house, and how it added a whole other darker tone, and emotional level to the story.

I really loved watching Damian reveal his true self to Alexa and Rylan, showing them another side of him and some of what he is capable of doing. Rylan was one of my favorites, though definitely underrated, I felt that his character could have been explored just a bit more, I'm kinda secretly hoping that he has his own awesome adventure out there, somewhere, because he just seems like such a nice guy.

Overall, this was a well written read, brimming with adventure, and a book that is exactly what YA fiction has been lacking in the past few years, it has a timeless quality to it, I believe that it would be well received 20 years ago, just as well as today. It had everything that I look for in a great book, characters that I care for, and cheer for throughout, new mysteries, suspense, characters who can discern right from wrong, and a plot that wouldn't let me let go. Fantastic read, highly recommend this book to readers of YA fiction.

Content is PG-13

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 Berenstain Bears Mother's Day Blessings by Mike Berenstain ~ Review

My Review:

Papa, Brother, Sister, and Honey plan a special day for Mama, and learn about the many ways that mothers work hard to make the world a better place and serve their families.

A sweet book about celebrating Mother's Day, and honoring all mothers, I really liked how it showed the different jobs that some moms have, and how they bless their families, and also how their children are a blessing to them.

A lovely read to share with your family, I love the timeless quality of The Berenstain Bears and their adventures. From the classic characters and illustrations to the simple yet meaningful storytelling, this is a lovely book and a great one to share with the young people in your life.

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 Firefighter Daddy by Margaret Daley ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

When Sarah Blackburn sees a poster about a found dog just a few days after losing her black lab, Gabe, she follows up and finds Gabe at the home of Liam McGregory, who's nieces have fallen in love with Gabe.

Liam has stepped up to raise his brother's children, after their father died, but he struggles with feeling overwhelmed most of the time, trying to balance his career with his new responsibilities.

Sarah and Liam work it out so that Madison and Katie can visit Gabe, could this be the beginning of something beautiful?

Liam is a hardworking man, strong in his faith, and good at his job. I love his willingness to raise his nieces, even though he feels out of his element with them at times. And I loved how his Aunt Betty helps out with the girls while he is at work.

My favorite character was Sarah, I love her nurturing spirit and how she cares for those around her, like her Nana, and connects with Madison and Katie.

Overall, this was a fantastic read, I like the guys in the Single Dad's Club and look forward to reading more about them! The dialog was great between Liam and Sarah, and even though Sarah didn't have kids she had great advice for helping him connect with his nieces. A wonderful read, engaging and well paced, I fell in love with the community and the characters. I can't wait to read more books in this 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."

Playing the Part by Jen Turano ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Lucetta Plum is an actress, but unlike the characters that she plays she is a clever and industrious woman, she knows how to take care of herself, but also knows when she needs help. When she is forced to give up a starring role in a play due to the unwanted and threatening interest of a fan, she takes refuge at a friend's grandson's estate.

There is more to Bram Haverstein than meets the eyes, he is not expecting his favorite actress to show up on his doorstep courtesy of his estranged grandmother.

But strange things are happening at Bram's mansion, will Lucetta be able to see the real man behind the part that he plays?

An action packed suspenseful read, filled with drama, romance, mystery, and plenty of humor, as well as Ms. Turano's signature larger than life characters. I really like Mr. Skukman, Lucetta's bodyguard he takes his job very seriously and inwardly he is a quiet man who enjoys poetry and quiet moments of reflection.

I really liked the dialog between Lucetta and Bram as they discover that the other is not what they seem at first, and it grows their relationship as they learn about each other.

Overall, this is a fun filled read, that kept a smile on my face, and was full of humor. I liked the mystery and many surprises along the way. Lucetta is a strong woman who knows how to do for herself, but she learns to trust God with the unknown, and that isn't the only one who isn't what first impressions may suggest. A fast paced read that I didn't want to put down! I think one of my favorite parts was that it brought Harriet, Millie and Lucetta all together again. A fun adventure filled read that will put a smile to your lips.


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: 

Playing the Part (Bethany House, March 2016)

Can they accept who they are behind the parts theyplay in time to save the day?

Lucetta Plum is an actress on the rise in New York City, but is forced to abandon her starring role when a fan's interest turns threatening. Lucetta's widowed friend, Abigail Hart, is delighted at the opportunity to meddle in Lucetta's life and promptly whisks her away to her grandson's estate to hide out.

Bram Haverstein may appear to simply be a somewhat eccentric gentleman of means, but a mysterious career and a secret fascination with a certain actress mean there's much more to him than society knows.

Lucetta, who has no interest in Abigail's matchmaking machinations, has the best intentions of remaining cordial but coolly distant to Bram. But when she can't ignore the strange and mysterious things going on in his house, it'll take more than good intentions to keep her from trying to discover who Bram is behind thepart he plays.

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1RQM4QD

 

About the author:

Jen Turano, author of the Ladies of Distinction series and the A Class of Their Own series, is a graduate of the University of Akron. She is a member of ACFW and lives in a suburb of Denver, Colorado.

Website | Facebook 

Landing page:

http://litfusegroup.com/author/JTurano

Always Watching by Lynette Eason ~ Review

Astor's Review:



It started with a bang and didn't slow down. A thrilling adventure, with great characterization and plenty of action.

Wade Savage, psychiatrist and radio personality has a stalker. His father secretly hires a bodyguard from Elite Guardians Agency to protect him, and Olivia Edwards is on the job.  As the stalker's actions escalate from innocent to deadly, will Olivia and Wade be able to find the stalker and stop them before it's too late?

A book filled with non-stop action as Wade and Olivia fight against the lock to protect not only him but his young daughter from the unstable stalker.

As Olivia and Wade find themselves leaning on each other for strength and support, Olivia wonders if her growing feelings for Wade are putting him in even more danger.

Overall, a fast paced read, with well built characters that draw you into the their plights, and add drama and depth to the story. Olivia struggles to let let people in, because everyone she has ever known is gone now, will Wade be able to help her see that caring for others is a gift and not a burden? A chilling and suspenseful read, that you won't be able to put down!



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."

Loved + Blessed Box ~ Review

In the last few years subscription boxes have really taken off, a wonderful gift to someone special or for yourself that brings new surprises every month. I had the unique opportunity to receive and review a Loved + Blessed box.

Loved + Blessed boxes are specially put together to inspire and encourage a special woman in your life, letting her know that she is in your thoughts and prayers. It comes in an adorable pink box that brings excitement and anticipation.

The box that I received was themed with the message: You are God's Masterpiece. It included a scripture care with the verse Ephesians 2:10 in it, a sticker, a 12 pack of colored pencils, and a framed coloring page that you can turn into your very own unique masterpiece.

Boxes start at $10 a month, and they can bought a few months at a time or even a whole year, I like the idea a lot, and it can be so fun and meaningful to receive a gift like this, especially during a hard time. 

I would definitely recommend looking into this if you are looking for a great gift to give. 

You can enter to win a year of Loved+Blessed boxes at this link here:  Loved and Blessed

SOCIAL CORNER

Instagram @passhopeon

Pinterest @lovedblessedbox

Twitter @lovedblessedbox

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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."

Pony Express Courtship by Rhonda Gibson ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Rebecca Young and her late husband have 8 children, 7 sons and a daughter, Joy. Now that her husband is dead, she must make ends meet, and turning her farm into a Pony Express station might just be the answer.

The Pony Express sends Seth Armstrong to help set up the operation, he is responsible and a good leader, teaching Rebecca's sons what they will need to know to become riders, and he also spends time with Benjamin, even though he is too young to be a rider.

I liked Rebecca, for both her strengths and her vulnerabilities. She is determined to turn her far into a Pony Express station, and follow through with what her husband wanted, helping to provide a way for their sons to make their way in the world. But she worries about them as they grow up and if they are ready to start leaving home. I liked her for her kind spirit and hospitality.

I loved the relationship that Rebecca has with her sons, they all respect her and look up to her, and will do anything to protect her.

I liked how Seth started having a Bible study with the boys and his devotion to keeping his word.

Overall, a terrific read with great interaction between the characters, and great dialog that kept a smile on my face. I liked how this book was engaging from the first, with great characters and a great plot. Fantastic read fro beginning to end.

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."

At Love's Bidding by Regina Scott ~ Review

Lucie's Review:


Miranda Wimplegate and her grandfather set off on a mission to recover what they unwittingly sold from their auction house is Boston. Their journey takes them to the Missouri Ozarks, but they may be in for more than they bargained, with plenty of unexpected, and hilarious situations that that arise over the course of their journey.

You never know what you may find when you set off on an adventure!

Wyatt Ballentine is a man of character and faith, he is a nature born leader, and determined to the last--though he doesn't make the best of first impressions.

Miranda cares deeply for her grandfather, and as the journey progresses and he becomes ore forgetful she must step out fro the shadows and learn to take charge.

I liked how the dialog between Wyatt and Miranda built their relationship, and how they grow to admire each other--despite the fact that Wyatt is different from every other an that she has met,
especially her cousin Cornelius, that everyone expects her to marry.

Overall, this was a entertaining read, though in the beginning it took a while to get the wheels rolling, it definitely picks up speed as it goes along. A great read filled with many vibrant characters, as well as plenty of drama, romance, and humor.


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."

Bedtime Snuggles by Patricia Reeder Eubank ~ Review

My Review:

A darling board book with charming illustrations of mothers and their offspring getting ready for bedtime, set to rhyme.

It's hard not to tell too much of this delightful read, because of it's short length, but it is absolutely adorable. Perfect to share with young ones before bedtime, it shows all the animals on the farm cuddling up for the night, the artwork is fitting and timeless.

Overall, a delightful read. I loved the timeless country feel of the artwork and gentle flow of the syllables as they rolled off the tongue. A sweet read to share with loved ones.

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 Berenstain Bears' Easter Blessings by Mike Berenstain ~ Review

My Review:


A delightful read, written with classic Berenstain Bear charm, in board book form celebrating all the wonderful things we have to be thankful for in the spring time, from family and friends, and most importantly how Jesus Christ conquered sin and death for us.

A sturdy book that is perfect for sharing with youngsters, this is a great book for sharing with the young people in your life about the celebration of spring and our risen Lord.

Overall, if you are a fan of the Berenstain Bears this is a book you are sure to enjoy, though shorter than the full length picture books, this smaller board book loses none of the signature charm, and is a wonderful addition to springtime.

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."

Protecting Her Daughter by Lynette Eason ~ Review

Lucie's Review: 


When Zoe catches strangers trying to pick up her daughter after school, Zoe and Sophia flee to Wrangler's Corner, hoping that the remote change of scenery will spell safety for Sophia. But when the would-be abductors follow them, their dreams of sanctuary are shattered.

Vet Aaron Starke comes out to check on a cow and notices Zoe and Sophia acting strangely, when he discovers their plight, he is determined to stay and help them figure out what is going on.

Taunt with suspense and intrigue, this is a read that you won't want to put down! Will Aaron be the ally they need to fight back against the kidnappers?

I loved Aaron, he is a strong man of faith , who wants to do everything he can to help Zoe and her daughter. He's a very committed man, and does what he says he will. He's a mountain of comfort and strength, pointing Zoe to the source of his faith.

I really liked how Zoe and Aaron's bond grew throughout the story, as the tension and stakes increased. Zoe is honest with Aaron about her past and the burdens she carries. I loved her fierce protectiveness of her daughter.

Overall, a suspenseful tension fraught read, with great character development, and plenty of things going on! You won't want to put it down!

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."