3.31.2018

Heart of an Agent by Tracey J. Lyons ~ Review

The Heart of an Agent (The Adirondack Pinkertons #2)
Lucie's Review:

Former Pinkerton Agent Lily Handland is ready for retirement and a more settled life, she jumps at the chance to leave behind her hectic life, and invest in Great Camp a beautiful escape that is about to be foreclosed on. Great Camp is a place in the Adirondack Mountains where city folk go to enjoy the great outdoors and a simpler pace of life.

The Murphy Camp was thriving until 2 years ago when Owen Murphy lost his wife, losing himself in grief. Lily falls in love with the camp, and offers Owen a partnership where they will work together to restore the camp, Owen reluctantly agrees after urging from his banker.

Lily is excited about her new life, and sets right to work cleaning and making a list of repairs, responding to years of mail. Lily has no experience running a business, but she is organized, determined, and enthusiastic. Lily has a secret from her past that she wants to stay hidden, because she doesn't know if Owen would understand.

The Caddiebacks welcome Lily, they have faithfully worked at the camp, and are supportive of Lily's ideas to revive the place. I loved Mrs. Caddieback's cheer and strong faith.

I loved it when Owen started to come out of his self-imposed isolation and get excited about the camp again. He is very handy, and able to help make many of the repairs himself. He is a kind, capable, and hardworking man, and he becomes more likable as he shows his true colors. I like how he wants to get to know Lily better, and is himself abe to be more and more open with her.

Great dialog helps to grow their relationship, I like how Lily's faith helps Owen to re-examine his own. Quick start, great pace, and Mrs. Caddieback is just the most adorable lady ever. Highly enjoyable read with great characters, filled with hope.




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."

3.28.2018

Hearts Entwined by Karen Witemeyer, Mary Connealy, Regina Jennings, and Melissa Jagears ~ Review

Hearts Entwined
Lucie's Review:
Love Knot

Claire came to Texas as a mail-order bride, but didn't end up getting married. She now lives in Harper's Station as a midwife, and sending home money to the her family. When her sister asks her to meet the train, because she is sending her something she is shocked to receive...her nephew?

Pieter van Duran agrees to accompany his infant nephew, Liam, to Harper's Station in order to deliver him to his aunt. Pieter has dreams of starting a dairy farm, and winning back the only woman he ever cared for.

Sparks fly between Claire and Pieter from the moment he steps off of the train. She's a fiery red-head with an Irish accent, and a way with words. While Pieter is a stoic Dutchman of few words, though meaningful and to the point.

Pieter is a man with a mission, he is humble and determined, he wants to be a part of Liam's life no matter what happens, and relishes this opportunity to prove himself. I love how Pieter's family is close to Claire's, and how they are both strong believers.

An engaging read, with fantastic characters that quickly captured my heart. Great dialog and touches of humor, but a story that also packs an emotional punch. My favorite of the collection.

Tangled Ties That Bind

If you are familiar with the Kincaid Clan then you will appreciate this story even more, Seth and Callie's son, Connor, returns home and finds that he is in for more than a few surprises.

Maggie is all grown up and after Connor left, she found the courage to follows her own interests, and she is currently training to be a doctor. She's committed to her education, and won't let his return get in the way of her dream.

Full of action, humor, and great dialog that grows theirs relationship. I love how Maggie and Connor are reunited and reconnect.

Bound and Determined

Camels don't like horses, and neither to cowhands. Private Bradley Willis has been assigned to escort the camels with their owner, and his beautiful daughter.

Bradley is more than a little shocked when he discovers his assignment, but he is a man bound by his word and he comes to respect the Captain, and admire Ambrosia during their trek.

An enjoyable adventure with a great ending!

Tied and True


Marianne and Calvin have known each other for a long time, but her family is wealthy and Calvin is not, so he is afraid to make a move. But that doesn't stop Marianne, she is a caring and compassionate young woman, who treats everyone around her with dignity. She doesn't care what others think, and I admired her strong spirit.

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."

3.25.2018

Night Stalker by Shirlee McCoy ~ Review

Night Stalker (FBI: Special Crimes Unit #1)Lucie's Review:

When a serial killer turns his attention to Charlotte Murray after she foils an abduction, FBI Agent Adam Whitfield, a criminal profiler, is unofficially on the case as Charlotte is his ex-wife.

Can they stay one step ahead of the killer?

I like Charlotte Murray, she has been through a lot, her son drowned, and her husband left and divorced her. She still feels her loss, but she is active in church and teaches math at the community college. She also trained her big, curly ball of fur, Clover, to be a therapy dog.

Since the divorce Adam has become a Christian, and he regrets how he treated Charlotte, he is determined to keep her safe. He takes the initiative to talk to her and tell her things that he should have told her a long time ago. He doesn't give up and is willing to do what it takes to keep her safe.

Heartfelt, action-packed, and full of suspense, it was nearly impossible to put down. There were many twists along the way, and I love how Adam and Charlotte get a second chance. Great touches of humor, and a lovable ball of fur make this book memorable and add warmth. 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."

Accidental Family by Lisa Bingham ~ Review

Accidental Family (The Bachelors of Aspen Valley)
Lucie's Review:

When twin babies are left on  Pastor Charles Wanlass's doorstep, he vows to protect them and give them a home. Mail-order bride, Willow Granger comes to talk to Charles, and sees the twins, instantly recognizing them as the children of her friend Jenny. But when a crowd shows up asking about the babies, they both claim the twins as their own, leading them to fabricate a story of being married in England months ago. But the mine owner insists that they remarry, leading Willow and Charles into a marriage of convenience.

Willow goes along with the marriage for the sake of the children, she hasn't spoken to Charles, but has heard him preach and has heard good things about him in the community. She is timid and shy at first, but as they try to solve Jenny's disappearance and care for the twins so sees his kindness.

When strange footprints begins appearing outside Willow and the children's window, Charles is concerned for their safety. Charles enlists the help of two men to help him keep them safe. Smalls is a large mute, while Creakle is small and very talkative, they become great babysitters with humorous results.

I loved how the community wants to help with the twins, even though they suspect the truth.

Charles is good with the twins, and he admires Willow's determination, industriousness, and tender heart. He is a good listener, and is a man of his word.

This is a great book, engaging, with great interaction, mystery, a great community of side characters, with a lot going on, and a satisfying ending. Highly enjoyable!

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."

3.21.2018

God Made the World written and illustrated by Sarah Jean Collins ~ Review

God Made the World
My Review:

A lovely board book based on the first chapters of Genesis, both written and illustrated by Sarah Jean Collins. This book is well written, with a eloquent and timeless prose that tells the story of creation in a way that children will understand and adults will enjoy when reading to their young one.

The illustrations pop with color and geometric shapes, showing the world in the stages of creation. I love how this book goes beyond just be a cute book, the verses have an elegance to them that makes this book memorable in how it draws from scripture with it's deceptively simple sounding verses.

back cover 
Overall a wonderful board book, full of bright colors, that tells the story of creation with beautiful evocative language that is great for all ages. Highly recommend this book!


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."

3.20.2018

The Mayflower Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse ~ Review

The Mayflower Bride (Daughters of the Mayflower #1)Lucie's Review:

Mary Elizabeth Chapman doesn't want to go to the New World, but when her father takes the opportunity to reserve passage on the Mayflower, it is decided. Mary Elizabeth must care for her young brother, as their mother has passed.

Mary Elizabeth, is fearful of what awaits them in the New World, but her dear friend Dorothy, encourages her to see it as an adventure.

William is a "stranger" and a carpenter by trade. He grew up on the streets until he was taken in by a kindly mentor. He is befriended by John Alden who lives his faith as a Separatist and shows William what a life of fait looks like.

I like how both Mary Elizabeth and her brother, David, grow up a lot on the voyage, taking care of the sick passengers. This story is full of history and does a grew job of bringing to life the plight and dream of the Separatists, and the struggles that they faced before and after landing on Plymouth. This book also highlights many great historical figures and their faith.

William is curious about the Separatists, and is respectful yet inquisitive. I like how he and Mary Elizabeth are brought together by their trials, serving others alongside each other.

Great attention to detail, rich in history , and inspiring historical characters that bring the plight of the Separatists to life, bringing to life the courage of those who through their faith were led to voyage to a new land.

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."

3.15.2018

Across the Blue by Carrie Turansky ~ Review

Across the Blue
My Review:

Isabella Grayson is a wealthy socialite with a passion for journalism, and an aspiring writer. She longs to prove her worth as a writer for the Daily Mail. Bella is inspired to write about the daring aerial feats of the daring men vying to be the first to fly across the English Channel.

James Drake is a pilot with a dream of making a name for himself in air travel, along his mentor and professor. He has a mysterious past that makes him question his identity, and he is determined to reach for his dreams and uncover the secret of his parentage.

A bit slow to start, but well researched this book tells of how air travel revolutionized travel and warfare at the turn of the century. Isabella is a charming, yet headstrong woman, quick thinking, and who knows how to get what she wants. She wants more than to be wealthy and to marry advantageously. She wants to follow her passion for writing, and be free to make her own choices. Yet she is respectful of her parents, even when she does things differently than they deem seemly.

James is a clever young man, he has worked to build his plane, and knows the intricacies of flying his aircraft. He has always wondered about the circumstances of his birth, and after finding a letter in an old hatbox, his longing for truth is renewed. I like his relationship with Martha and the Professor, who treat him as a son.

Overall, an enjoyable read about an exciting time period with the excitement of industrialization and flight, as well as the Edwardian rules of money and society. Great for fans of Downton Abbey's time period.

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."

3.13.2018

A Family for Easter by Lee Tobin McClain ~ Review

A Family For Easter (Rescue River)
Lucie's Review:
When a fire damages Eduardo Degado's home, leaving the widowed landscaper and his 2 children with nowhere to go, Fiona Farmington offers to affordably rent him her carriage house. Her four children are friends with Eduardo's kids, and all the children are thrilled with the arrangement.

Can Fiona and Eduardo overcome a world of differences and find love?

Eduardo helps Fiona with the garden she is putting in, he is a good father to his children, but regrets not being more present for his late wife during her cancer battle. He is a great father to his children.

Fiona is my favorite character, she's been through a lot, but holds firm to her faith. Se struggles with her body image, and the condescending things that her mother told her. But she is surrounded by wonderful friends who encourage her.

Eduardo and Fiona get to know each other working in the garden, he is a bit intimidated by her money, though she inherited it, and lives modestly. Their kids love each other, and I loved their adventures. Eduardo and Fiona have similar values and regrets about their pasts.

This is a great story of second chances and family, filled with humorous moments, and great friends.

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."

3.10.2018

Kill Shot by Susan Sleeman ~ Review

Kill Shot (White Knights #2)
Lucie's Review:
FBI Critical Incident Response Team, The White Knights are called in to recover some stolen military technology, self-steering bullets that would make a novice gunman a deadly sniper. Taking the lead on the case is former Marine Scout Sniper, Agent Rick Cannon, who is pleased to be returning to his old stomping grounds in Atlanta.

PTSD Psychologist Dr. Olivia Dobbs is swept into the case when one of her patients is murdered by one of the self-steering bullets right before her eyes. Now she's the only witness in a murder of a top secret case, yet she never saw the killer's face.

Can Rick keep Olivia safe against high tech killers?

Rick takes Olivia, Diann, who is Olivia's sister, and Diana's children to stay with his parents, in their well protected mansion. Olivia senses the strain between Rick and his mother, but he doesn't want her help with personal things.

Rick is constantly alert, and very driven, he is determined to sift through every clue to find the culprit. He likes to keep to himself, and doesn't enjoy talking about himself, which is why he is irked that Olivia wants him to share more about himself.

Olivia is my favorite. She lives her faith, and counsels people thusly. She is committed to her patients, but wants to help with the case as much as she can. Slowly but surely Olivia get's Rick to open up to her, he's everything that she's not looking for, yet they work well together.

A fast-paced race against time full of action and surprises, with a suspense filled and climatic ending. Great characters and dialog, I was happy to read about the White Knights again and look forward to more of their adventures in the future. 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."

3.07.2018

An Unexpected Amish Romance by Patricia Davids ~ Review

An Unexpected Amish Romance (The Amish Bachelors #5)
Lucie's Review:

Mark Bowman is learning the furniture trade from his uncle while in Bowman's Crossing. Mark has everything all planned out, he will return home and marry the daughter of his future business partner, when his training is done. But his intended back home wants out of the deal.

When Helen Zook's sister marries the man that Helen had intentions towards, Helen decides to go and stay with her aunt in Bowman's Crossing. Her mischievous aunt get's her a job working for Mark.

Will Helen and Mark be able move past their hurt and see a second chance in each other?

Aunt Charlotte is a different duck, she lives alone with her pet racoon, Juliet, and dog, Clyde. Sometimes Charlotte gets mixed up to hilarious results, and Clyde takes a distinct liking to Mark.

Even though Mark and Helen get off to a rough start, they find that they enjoy working with each other. She tries to help him win back his once intended, and be a good friend to him. Helen comes to appreciate her aunt's different ways, and her strong faith.

I really enjoyed this book, it was surprisingly fun and filled with humor. I loved Aunt Charlotte! I love the way the dialog really brings Helen and Mark's relationship to life, and how Mark and Helen grow in their faith. A wonderful 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."

3.06.2018

Where We Belong by Lynn Austin ~ Review

Where We Belong
My Review:

Sisters Rebecca and Flora Hawes have a thirst for adventure and a passion for finding God's calling in their lives. Raised by their intellectual father, who encouraged their scholarship and their faith they experience more freedom than many young ladies of their time and station. But when their father meets a proper and society concerned widow, and with their father's failing health they must fight to pursue their passions.

Their story jumps back to their childhood and youth, and the events that marked Flora and Rebecca's lives, as they seek God's purpose in their lives. We also get a look into the lives of their unconventional servants Soren Petersen and Kate Rafferty, and how they came into the sisters' lives. A story sweeping decades from America to the streets of Paris and the deserts of the Holy Land.

Rebecca is headstrong and intellectual, she is the born leader of the sisters, and is unafraid to stand up for herself and bend the rules sometimes. I admired her quick thinking and compassionate heart, yet how she was also firm in the fact that her sister's calling was not the same as her own. She loves her sister dearly, and trusts God for his purpose in her life. I like how she takes initiative in every situation.

Flora is the follower of the sisters, she is more eager to please, but still knows when to stand up for herself and others when it matters. She has a heart for the less fortunate, most especially the children. I love how she branches out on her own, without Rebecca to pursue her own passions for God's kingdom.

The characters were so well done, and one of my favorites was probably Petersen, he comes from a hard life, but he has a tender heart and loves his brother dearly. He sees Christ in the way that the sisters treat him and Kate, and is inspired by their godly example in his life. Kate is stubborn and has a fighter's will, she enjoys being contrary to Petersen, and her fiery personality is troublesome, and also loveable. Edmund is a wonderful friend and confidant to the sisters, I like how he isn't threatened by the sister's close bond, and works with both of them encouraging them in their work.

Overall, one of my favorite books this year. I love the strong messages of faith and how the sisters weren't just content with their comfortable life, but wanted to use what God had given them to help others and show them His love. They take in Petersen and Kate, showing them grace and God's love. Different from the Christian romances of this genre, this book stands apart in it's powerful message of faith, and strong female protagonists based loosely on real people.

A unforgettable read that I enjoyed every minute of it. I didn't want it 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."

Honor-Bound Lawman by Danica Favorite ~ Review

Honor-Bound Lawman
Lucie's Review:

Owen Hamilton can't refuse help to a friend, especially when he made a promise. Even though he isn't a lawman any more he promise Laura Booth to protect her, in exchange for her testimony against her then-husband, James, and Laura kept her end of the bargain. But now James has escaped from prison, and has revenge on his mind.

Laura has moved on with her life since her ex-husband's criminal activity, and she now runs a boarding house for formerly abused women. She has learned a lot about being independent, and running a business. Laura ia surprised when Owen shows up on her doorstep, telling her that James has escaped.

They haven't spoken since the last time James was loose, Laura thought that they had become friends during that time, but they haven't spoken since even though they live a few hundred feet away. Will Owen be able to protect Laura a second time, and will they dare to be more to each than a promise in the past?

Owen is widowed and takes Laura to his ranch, where he lives with his daughters and his sister, Lena. His daughters are a big reason that he chose to settle down, he is a good father, he is firm, yet encourages them to grow to be more independent.

Owen's daughters Emma and Anna are adorable, they have big hearts and are very clever, adopting a rooster, naming him Henry, to save him from the stew pot. And the many adventures they have in The Taming of Henry,  add lots of humor to the book.

Lena and Owen are close, and back each other up, Lena sees that Laura might be just what Owen needs, and she encourages it.

Laura is strong and independent, she has overcome a lot in the past few years, and it gives her the confidence to dream of a brighter future. There is great dialog in this book, and I like how this gives Owen and Laura a second chance to know each other again, seeing a different side of each other. Fun and enjoyable read, I loved the characters, and there was plenty of suspense and action along the way!


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."

3.05.2018

The Sea Before Us by Sarah Sundin ~ Review

The Sea Before Us (Sunrise at Normandy, #1)My Review:
Dorothy Fairfax serves as a Wren with the British Navy, meticulously mapping the beaches for the troops. She has lost much to the war including her mother and two brothers, Dorothy cares for her lonely father who seems to have lost all passion for life. Dorothy has been pursuing the attention of an old family friend Lawrence Eaton, who was a friend of her brothers' and can have his pick of women wherever he goes. When her father's office manager tells her that the company is losing money, she turns to her new friend Wyatt, an American Naval Officer with a history of bookkeeping.

Wyatt Paxton is trying to make amends. He left home many years ago after a horrible accident and never looked back, he has been trying to make things right, punishing himself for his sins. He is enchanted by the lovely Dorothy, and befriends her grieving father. Will he be able to help her get the bottom of the company woes and finally forgive himself for his mistakes?

Dorothy is a beautiful and clever young woman, trying to hold what is left of her family together. She has a big heart, and is eager to please, but I liked how she learned to stand up for herself over the course of the story and put everything in God's hands.

Wyatt is a good man, humble to a fault, he is thoughtful, honest, and more modest than is right. But his past haunts him, he longs to make it right on his own, he encourages Dorothy to step out in faith, but struggles to accept God's grace himself. I loved how respectful he was to everyone he met.

Well researched and fast paced, I learned so much about the Naval aspect of D-day, and the many brave men and women who made it possible. I loved learning about the detail and research that went into the mapping before GPS, Google Maps, and other modern advances. The characters were riveting and heartfelt, I felt an instant attachment to both Dorothy and Wyatt, and had a difficult time putting this book down. A thoroughly satisfying read, with great characters, heart, and courage. Highly engaging 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."

3.04.2018

Plain Jeopardy by Alison Stone ~ Review

Plain Jeopardy
Lucie's Review:
Grace Miller is a reporter, she travels the world giving a voice to the voiceless. Grace as been having trouble getting people to talk to her about her latest story, so when she finds a note on her door she thinks she might have found a lead, instead someone crashes into her car.

Connor Gates responds to the accident, he isn't pleased with the story that Grace is pursuing. Connor is the cousin of her story's topic, Jason, and he doesn't like how story is hurting his aunt. But he still takes Grace's safety seriously, and is committed to helping er find out what really happened the night that Jason died.

Grace grew up Amish with her 2 sisters until her mother was murdered and her father took them to be raised English. Grace and Connor are a good team they discover that there is more to the story than they thought, they learn to trust each yet doubts from their past plague them. Grace is smart and quick thinking, she is good hat her job and just wants to tell the truth. She's great at talking to people and trusts her instincts.

Connor is a great guy and her knows that he walks a fine line between being a lawman when it comes to the English and Amish. He admires Grace even though they don't always see eye to eye.

An action packed, suspenseful read, with many surprise twists along the way. Can two people with difficult pasts bring the right people to justice and maybe even find love?

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."

3.02.2018

When Mountains Move by Julie Cantrell

When Mountains Move (Into the Free #2)
My Review: Picking up right where Into the Free left off, Millie and Bump are getting married and about to set off on their own adventure managing a ranch in Colorado for their friend Cauy Tucker, they have 3 years to make it a success. If they do well they will get a share of the profit, and Bump will be able to start his veterinarian clinic. They must build the run down ranch from the ground up, and in their new home it is hard to know who to trust.

There is their charming widowed neighbor, Kat, who is too friendly with Bump for Millie's taste, but seems to offer the only friendship for miles. There is also Fortner, a man who was raised on the homestead that they are ranching, but rumors say that he killed 2 women.

Millie brings a painful secret into their marriage that threatens to tear them apart. Will Millie and Bump have the faith push through the challenges in their marriage, or will secrets tear them apart?

Picking up right where the previous book left off, this book does not work well as a stand alone. I would highly recommend reading the first book in the series, before starting this one, as it will give good depth and background to Millie's past and the secret that she still hides. Rich storytelling paints a picture of the stark reality around them, I liked how raw it was, and the vulnerability in the characters. The author skillfully, develops flawed characters that spring from the pages scars and all. I loved how over the course of the book I could go from being frustrated with a character, to understanding, and forgiving them over the course of the story.

Bump is a good man, and he loves Millie unconditionally. But he is still human, and isn't perfect. He is stressed out by the task before him, and wants to give his family more than what he had growing up.

Oka is Millie's paternal grandmother who comes to stay with them in Colorado, she is a very wise woman, and is full of hope despite the pain of her past.

Overall, a satisfying beginning to Millie and Bump's story. They must face their share of lions, and pain from the past, and learn to trust each other in the mountains of Colorado. I love how Ms. Cantrell so vividly brought the characters to life, and made them shine through their flaws. This book follows Millie in her journey of faith, through the happiness and heartache, joys and suffering. A memorable read that I won't soon forget.

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."