Keturah by Lisa Tawn Bergren ~ Review

Review: 

Young widow Keturah and her sisters, Verity and Selah, find themselves with a sugar plantation that is fast losing money in the West Indies after the death of their father. Keturah and her sisters determine that in order to protect their assets that they must go there to oversee it themselves.

Keturah is determined to never depend on a man again, after her disastrous marriage to Edward that left her scarred. She is stubborn and clever, with a natural bent for leadership, but is she ready for everything that she will face in the West Indies?

Gray Covington grew up along side of Keturah, and spent much of his youth trying to make her jealous going out with other girls. But when she married Edward he realized what he'd lost. Now he too is trying to make a success in the West Indies sugar plantations. Gray has matured, and is very serious about farming the West Indies, reading books, and even going to university to learn about agriculture. He has planned his trip carefully and packed thoughtfully.

This book doesn't shy away from mentioning the harsh realities of the West Indies and the cruel slave trade during that time. Which shows how while the cruelty of slavery was not as visible on English soil, it definitely was a presence in the British Territories.

Keturah and her sisters struggle to made the plantation their home and come to terms with the man that their father was in the West Indies. Keturah endured an abusive marriage, and though she and her sisters are viewed as eligible catches, she is careful and protective of her sisters. I like how she and her sisters are challenged by their new home, and don't settle for the norm, striving to be kind to those around them.

Overall, a well written book about an oft overlooked time and place, of beauty and unspeakable cruelty. It was a bit slow to start for me, but after I got to know the sisters better and they reached the island I was hooked. The first in an exotic and exciting new historical series from Lisa Tawn Bergren.



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: In 1772 England, Lady Keturah Banning Tomlinson and her sisters find themselves the heiresses of their father's estates and know they have one option: Go to the West Indies to save what is left of their heritage.

Although it flies against all the conventions for women of the time, they're determined to make their own way in the world. But once they arrive in the Caribbean, proper gender roles are the least of their concerns. On the infamous island of Nevis, the sisters discover the legacy of the legendary sugar barons has vastly declined--and that's just the start of what their eyes are opened to in this unfamiliar world.

Keturah never intends to put herself at the mercy of a man again, but every man on the island seems to be trying to win her hand and, with it, the ownership of her plantation. She could desperately use an ally, but even an unexpected reunion with a childhood friend leaves her questioning his motives.

Set on keeping her family together and saving her father's once-great plantation, can Keturah ever surrender her stubbornness and guarded heart to God and find the healing and love awaiting her? 

Lisa Tawn Bergren is the best-selling, award-winning author of over 40 books, with more than 2.5 million copies sold. She recently finished a teen series called Remnants (SEASON OF WONDER, SEASON OF FIRE, and SEASON OF GLORY). She's also written the River of Time Series (WATERFALL, CASCADE, TORRENT, BOURNE & TRIBUTARY, DELUGE) and The Grand Tour Series (GLAMOROUS ILLUSIONS, GRAVE CONSEQUENCES, GLITTERING PROMISES). She just released a new time-slip romance duology called River of Time: California (THREE WISHES and FOUR WINDS) and is researching her next trilogy, The Sugar Baron's Daughters (releasing in 2018).

Lisa’s time is split between managing home base, writing, consulting and helping Tim with his business. Her husband Tim is a sculptor of ducks-out-of-fenceposts (RMRustic.com), graphic designer and musician. They have three kids–Olivia (21), Emma (18) and Jack (13).

All five of the Bergrens make their home in Colorado Springs, Colorado.  Http://lisatawnbergren.com/

Enter to win a copy of Keturah. Five winners will be chosen! Click the image below to enter to win. The winners will be announced March 13 on the Litfuse blog! And check out the rest of the tour at http://litfusegroup.com/author/LBergren

The Star ~ Now on DVD ~ Promotional Post

From the studio that brought you MIRACLES FROM HEAVEN & CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF MEATBALLS comes the timeless tale about faith, friendship, and the importance of believing in yourself.

AFFIRM Films and Sony Pictures Animation’s THE STAR arrives for the first time on Digital on February 6 and on Blu-ray + DVD + Digital February 20 from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. 

 Buy it here: http://sites.sonypictures.com/thestar/discanddigital/?hs308=TSR084D

The heartwarming animated comedy follows a small but brave donkey named Bo (voiced by Steven Yeun, “The Walking Dead”), who yearns for a life beyond his daily grind at the village mill. One day he finds the courage to break free and finally goes on the adventure of his dreams. On his journey, he teams up with Ruth (voiced by Aidy Bryant, “Saturday Night Live”), a lovable sheep who has lost her flock and Dave (voiced by Keegan-Michael Key, Friends From College), a dove with lofty aspirations, along with three wisecracking camels voiced by Tracy Morgan (“30 Rock”), Tyler Perry and Oprah Winfrey. Bo and his new friends follow the star and become accidental heroes in the greatest story ever told.

Rounding out the all-star voice cast including Gina Rodriguez (“Jane The Virgin”) as Mary, Zachary Levi (“Chuck”) as Joseph, Grammy® Award-Winner Kelly Clarkson as Leah the horse, Anthony Anderson (“Black-ish”) as Zach the goat, Ving Rhames (Mission Impossible) as Thaddeus the dog, Gabriel Iglesias (Coco, Ferdinand) as Rufus the dog, Patricia Heaton (“The Middle”) as Edith the cow, Emmy® and Tony® Award-Winner Kristin Chenoweth as Abby the mouse, and Christopher Plummer (All the Money in the World) as King Herod.


THE STAR is filled with more than an hour of engaging bonus materials including the “Star- aoke: Sing Along with Bo & Friends,” a dance along to “Life Is Good” by A Great Big World, plus a collection of fun lyric videos that will have you singing along to the inspiring music from THE STAR. Families can enjoy crafting and baking with “how-to” videos “Star Mason Jar Votives” and “Sweet and Sparkly Stars,” and they also can go behind-the- scenes to explore the amazing talent who bring these characters to life. In “Faith All Year Round,” renowned pastor and motivational speaker, DeVon Franklin delivers a fun and engaging children’s sermon discussing the themes of the film and keeping the spirit of this inspiring story alive in us every day.

THE STAR is directed by Academy Award® nominated writer/director Timothy Reckart, screenplay by Carlos Kotkin, and story by Simon Moore and Carlos Kotkin. The film is executive produced by DeVon Franklin, Brian Henson and Lisa Henson, and produced by Jennifer Magee-Cook. The Star is presented by AFFIRM films and Sony Pictures Animation in association with Walden Media, Franklin Entertainment and The Jim Henson Company. The uplifting theme song, “The Star” by Mariah Carey and veteran songwriter Marc Shaiman was also nominated for a 2018 Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song. “The Star” song is now available on The Star: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack, which assembles new music from a bevy of powerhouse superstars.

Bonus Materials Include:

• Star-aoke: Sing-Along with Bo & Friends: In this all new song, sing along with your favorite characters including Bo, Dave, Ruth and the unforgettable camels
•  Life Is Good Dance-Along: Shake your tail feathers and move your hooves in this fun dance along
• Lyric Sing-Along Videos: Enjoy the eclectic and inspiring music of THE STAR with these colorful lyric videos that allow you to sing along with your favorite recording artists
• “The Star” by Mariah Carey
• “Can You See” by Fifth Harmony
• “Children Go Where I Send You” by Kelsea Ballerini
• “We Three Kings” by Kirk Franklin
• “Life Is Good” by A Great Big World
• Sweet and Sparkly Stars: Create star-themed cookies to be enjoyed year round
• Star Mason Jar Votives: Let the light of THE STAR shine with this simple yet stunning craft
• Faith All Year Round with DeVon Franklin: A children’s sermon discussing the themes of the film andhow to keep the spirit of this inspiring story alive in us every day
•  An All-Star Cast: Meet the stars of the film and explore the exciting voice cast who bring these amazing characters to life

You can even get a sneak peek of just some of the bonus features by following this link or using the graphic below to sample the weekly family Bible study with DeVon Franklin, that is being heralded as "interactive and super engaging."

THE STAR has a run time of approximately 86 minutes and is rated PG: for some thematic elements.

GOLDEN GLOBE® is a registered trademark and service mark of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association.

Sunrise, Easter Surprise! by Hannah C. Hall and illustrated by Ag Jatkowska ~ Review

My Review:

It's the first Easter morning, the birds are singing, lambs are whispering, bees are buzzing, about the miraculous hope that has come at last. Beautifully illustrated with the colors of the sunrise, and charming pictures of animals, this is a lovely book to share with a young one the hope realized at last in Jesus' sacrifice.

Beautifully written in  a lilting rhyme, I love how the excited the creation is to rejoice in the Good News. This is a beautifully color board book filled with adorable illustrations, perfect to share the wonder of Easter with the young people in your life. It would also make a lovely addition to an Easter basket, a well done children's book that they will dig out time and again. Simply delightful!

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."

High Treason by DiAnn Mills ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

When FBI Special Agent Kord Davidson's friend Prince Omar bin Talal of Saudi Arabia comes to Houston seeking care for his mother who has cancer, his decoy is shot down, and the FBI is put on high alert for future attempts on Omar's life. Kord is assigned to the protection detail due to his friendship with the Prince, but he is none too pleased when CIA agent Monica Alden is also assigned to the case.

When it is revealed that there is more to Omar's visit than finding cancer care for his mom, suddenly they realize that more is at stake and why he is being targeted. Can Monica and Kord work together to stop the assassin before a war is started?

Monica senses Kord's disapproval immediately,  but she is determined to be professional and do her job. She has spent some time in the Middle East and understands quite a bit of their culture and language, she is respectful and she and the Prince share a mutual respect for each other, and she befriends his sisters, Yasmine and Fatima. She earns Kord's grudging respect and then friendship, but is hesitant to take it further since she has been hurt and made mistakes in the past.

Kord is searching for something more in his life, he has read the Bible and the Koran, and Monica helps him come to term with things and figure out what he believes.

Omar cares for his mother and wants the very best care for her, he insists on visiting his mother everyday, even though that puts him in danger away from his guarded mansion.

Monica and Kord must work together to find the assassin, they know that they can't keep the Prince safe unless they cut off the threat at the source.They call in all of their resources and keep turning up clues. I liked their mutual respect for each other, and thay they stand by each other. There is also some great dialog between them. Mionica and Kord and smart, brave, capable, and with a great work ethic, they are dedicated to their work. I loved the full cast of characters in their action packed read, it was hard to put down, with twists that had be guessing till the end! 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."

Troubled Waters by Susan May Warren ~ Review

Lucie's Review: 

PEAK Administrative Assistant Sierra Rose wants to help with the needed repairs for PEAK's chopper, after losing a rotor puts lives in danger. She asks her old boss, Billionaire Ian Shaw to help her with the fundraiser, he is having financial difficulties, but Sierra doesn't want his money, she just wants to be able to invite their mutual friends that she met when she was working for him. Ian agrees and even offers the use of his yacht. But when the 3 day fundraiser turns into a nightmare when the boat is crippled by a wave, Ian and Sierra must fight for survival, and take a closer look at their relationship.

Sierra is very organized and plans the 3 day event meticulously, but she didn't plan on Ian coming with, and on a boat it's hard to avoid the man who broke her heart. Sierra cares about the people that she works with and wants to help them, she is intelligent and capable,and she wants to make things right with Ian and his niece.

The up and down relationship between Sierra and Ian has been going on in the background of the last few books, so it was nice that it finally got addressed. As well as Pete and Jess and how this book gives them time to figure things out more.

I like how this situation bring out the best in Ian, he's been struggling lately, but he is quick on his feet and great in a stressful situation. He is determined and doesn't give up, he blames himself for how everything went down, but his friendship with Dex helps him put things in perspective.'

I like how this book has great dialog, with unexpected turns of events that force Sierra and Ian to confront their relationship, and their faith. Fast paced, with lots of action, this makes for a fantastic read from 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."

Into the Free by Julie Cantrell ~ Review

My Review:
Millie longs to escape with the gypsies, away from her troubled life with her mother, and abusive father, Jack. But when Jack dies in a rodeo accident, and her mother dies from an overdose she is taken in by a local family. But her past holds many secrets, pieces that will lead Millie to who she is, and Into the Free.

Millie longs for freedom, she is adventurous, and has learned to navigate well the hard life that she was brought up to, with each world rocking change to her life, her perception widens. She is strong, facing and seeking out the secrets of her past, trying to reconcile the father and mother she knew, with how others saw them, and who they were before she was born. She is a strong heroine, raw, and realistically flawed.

I loved how the story was told through Millie's eyes, I got to see and experience firsthand her emotions, and how the injustices in her life strengthened her resolve and shaped her into the person she is still growing to be. I like how Millie finding out about her past, helped to her make sense of her life and why people treated her the way they did. River is clever, mysterious, promising a new world of adventure, but always just out of reach. While constant cowboy Bump, is there when Millie needs him, his faithful friendship helps her weather some of the storms, he is a dreamer and has overcome many obstacles of his upbringing, which in the end only made him stronger.

The small town of Iti Taloa comes to life, in a changing world, just coming out of the Depression.  Vibrant and vivid characters, in their complexity and duality bring this book to life, nobody is one thing, cruelty and kindness find a home under the same name. This book had me riveted by the characters, mystery, love, loss, faith and forgiveness. A beautiful and memorable read, I can't wait to see what adventures await Millie in the next book!

A Dangerous Engagement by Melanie Dickerson ~ Review

My Review:

Felicity Mayson’s marriage prospects are grim. Though from a well-respected family, she is one of thirteen children, and as such cannot expect much as a marriage settlement. When her relative Lady Blackstone invites her and her Aunt Agnes to come and stay with her, Felicity and Agnes gladly accept. But when they arrive there are very few women, and Lady Blackstone seems intent on making match between Felicity and Mr. Ratley.

But when someone is murdered on the premises, Felicity begins to wonder if there is more to this social gathering then at first appeared. And can she trust Phillip Merrick the man who seems intent on thwarting Lady Blackstone and Mr. Ratley’s plans?

If you have read the companion books to this one, you will instantly recognize Felicity, faithful and kind-hearted, friend to Julia and Leorah. Though the third in a series, this book stands well on its own, full of intrigue, conspiracy, romance, and revolution.

Felicity is kind and thoughtful, which can be mistaken by others for malleability, but she is stronger than others see. She stands strong for her convictions and faith, refuses to be complacent, and fights for what is right. I like her quick thinking, and daring, she takes her faith and living it out very seriously.

I think that Aunt Agnes surprised me the most, under her bookish exterior is an excellent actress and daring heroine.

Phillip comes to Lady Blackstone’s party with a mission on his mind, he wants to do everything he can to keep the innocent safe while bringing the conspirator’s to justice. He is honorable, daring, and respectful, ever the gentleman in a world of intrigue and questionable standards.

Overall, a fun regency era read, rife with conspiracy. Felicity faces her biggest challenge and must use her wits to survive Lady Blackstone’s party. I’ll admit that it wasn’t my favorite of the series, but I did find Felicity to be one of the more relatable heroines of the series due to how she didn’t have a big dowry, and how difficult it was for her to make a match despite being part of society. Great conclusion to a fun series. Perfect for teen girls, especially because of how it deals wisely with relationships, courage, and doing the right thing.

 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."

That Grand Easter Day! by Jill Roman Lord, illustrated by Alessia Trunfio ~ Review

My Review:

Beautifully illustrated book that tells of Jesus's resurrection through a lilting and rhythmic rhyming style that builds and changes throughout this fun filled read.

I absolutely adored this beautiful book that tells of the marvels of Easter Sunday. I loved how the illustrations had a purple hue, and a lovely dappling that gives a sun-spotted morning glow to every picture. I thought the inclusion of the bunny to the story, so cute! I enjoyed how some of the verses of the poems were predictable, while others changed and grew throughout.

This book has a lovely, catchy rhythm to it that children will love, and with the beautiful illustrations this is sure to become an instant favorite. This is a wonderful book to share with young ones. 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."