The Traitor's Pawn by Lisa Harris ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

FBI Agent Jack Shannon comes to Corpus Christi to track down the person selling government secrets to China. But when the Senator is shot during a hunting trip and a woman is kidnapped, Jack is shocked to find out that the woman taken is his high school crush, Bree Grayson. 

A high stakes, action-packed, with the security of the country at risk. There are a lot of twists and turns, filled with betrayal and friendship.

Bree is a strong heroine, she has never been close with her father, but the Senator is like a surrogate father to her. She has a passion for justice, and wants to do whatever she can to be of help to investigation. She feels at home with Jack, everything is so easy with him even though the situation around them is not, I loved their interaction and how God's timing brought them together.

Jack is an excellent agent, devoted to his job, and Bree is the girl he never forgot. He is devoted to his job and isn't sure what to expect with Bree coming back into his life so unexpectedly. He is an man of action, and is serious about his faith.

Overall, a fast paced, action-packed read, it was hard to put down and had plenty of suspense. I liked the balance of romance with high stakes international intrigue. This was an engaging and entertaingin read, highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Hunger Winter by Rob Currie ~ Review

My Review:

The story of a courageous boy and his family as they fight for freedom, in the Nazi occupied Netherlands during WWII. When Dirk and Anna's older sister is arrested, Dirk and Anna set off on a dangerous journey, facing kidnapping, betrayal, and coming face to face with the enemy multiple times.

Will their fractured family ever see each other again?

An action packed historical read targeted at middle grade readers about the Hunger Winter and the struggles that the Dutch faced during Nazi occupied Netherlands.

Dirk is a brave young man, he is very responsible and his quick thinking keep himself and his sister safe. Anna is a sweet little girl, with a straightforward innocence and trust, with a child-like faith that reminds those around her about what is important.

I liked how the book also follows Dirk and Anna's sister, Els showing her strength and resilience against the odds.

I will mention that there was gun use and violence, but I think that it is fitting for this book as it depicts a very tumultuous time in history, and made the story more realistic.

An action packed read, filled with daring, family and hope. I liked how the book did a good job of showing the danger that the children faced as well as the humanity of the people affected. It was a quick read, written for a younger target audience, and while there was a lot going on, I did find myself skimming here and there. But I do think that this is a good, wholesome read, with good themes of discernment, family and faith.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Hearts in Harmony by Beth Wiseman ~ Review

My Review:

Helping a family friend brings two Amish young adults together, as well as their shared love for music, which is forbidden.

Levi Shetler longs to play the music that calls to him in his head, naturally gifted he has never had a piano lesson yet he has been blessed with an uncanny talent. But that kind of music is forbidden.

Mary Hershberger is a young woman from a more lenient district than Levi's Old Order District, she also loves to listen and sing along with banned melodies. She and Levi bond over their shared love of music and their friendship with an elderly English woman.

A series of misunderstandings threaten to keep them apart, does their love have a chance?

A heartwarming Amish read, about family, friendship, and love. Mary and Levi come from different spectrums of the Amish, Mary's family is more modern and wealthy, while Levi's large family is more modest and traditional. I loved Adeline and how she embraces Levi, Mary, and Natalie as her friends, finding comfort in their friendship. Adeline is a wonderful woman with a natural gift for hospitality, she doesn't have much but she shares what she has. I loved how she mentored and encouraged Levi, Natalie, and Mary with love and faith.

Natalie is a hardworking young woman who is branching out on her own after a difficult childhood caught between two fighting parents. She connects with Adeline reluctantly, but quickly is charmed by Adeline's genuine heart for others, expecting nothing in return. I really like how this book shows how she has grown through her pain.

Overall, this was a quick, enjoyable read from one of my favorite Amish story writers, Beth Wiseman. I liked how she handled the difficult topics that came up in this book, and in the context of this story it worked well. Great start to a series, with many memorable characters, and great interaction. I definitely recommend this highly enjoyable read!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Alamo Bride by Kathleen Y'Barbo ~ Review

Lucie's Review: 

Aspiring healer Ellis Dumont finds a man unconscious, feverish, raving about treasure and war, on their Texas land. Ellis's father and brother are away fighting with the Texans. She's convinced that he is either crazy or a spy, but for which side?

Claibourne Gentry doesn't remember his mission, or what brought him to the Dumonts.

Will Ellis risk it all for her family on the word of a man she just met?

A bit slow to start it takes a awhile to get going because of how long Claibourne is unconscious, and the uneasiness of their acquaintance, as well as the situation.

Ellis's grandfather is a strong a protective patriarch, watching out for Ellis, her mother, and younger brothers. 

Ellis grows over the course of the book finding a sense of purpose in helping others. Clay also finds a chance at a new start upon meeting the Dumont family. Ellis struggles to put faith over fear, and is inspired by the strong women in her family.

Overall, a entertaining read, though it had a slow start, and at times the way that the plot moved was hard to follow. I admired Ellis's desire to help others and do meaningful work. A pleasant historical read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Like Flames in the Night by Connilyn Cossette ~ Review

My Review:

The final book in the Cities of Refuge Series follows Tirzah who is Moriyah and Darek's youngest daughter, widowed, but the beloved by her family. She doesn't want to marry again, yet wants to join her people in laying claim to the promised land. She convinces her brother to allow her to participate in a dangerous mission.

Liyam is a skilled warrior, fighting for his people, he returns home to tragedy. Angry and hurting he seeks the man who hurts him and his family, he meets Tirzah's family and pledges his service in their mission in exchange for help with his own.

Can these two warriors help their people claim their rightful land, and is it ever too late for forgiveness and new beginnings?

Tirzah has experienced deep hurt and loss, yet she is courageous and strong willing to help her people, speaking truth, acting in compassion. I admired her strength, she is quick on her feet, acts decisively. Odelaya is a faithful friend, youthful, and enthusiastic, I loved how she brought out a softer side of Tirzah.

Liyam is a seasoned warrior, he knows the risks he is taking on. I loved how he admired Tirzah's courage and quick thinking, and how he was supportive of her unconventional role in fighting alongside their people.

One of my favorite things in this book was how it brought together one of my favorite families from a previous series, with Moriyah and Darek's family, in a beautiful and satisfying way. I loved how this book brought back many of my favorite characters like Malakhi, Eitan, Nessa, even Alannah, from previous books.

Overall, a action packed read, and wonderful conclusion to this series bringing everything full circle into a powerful ending. Strong themes of faith, with a glimpse of what it might have been like to live under the Torah, while waiting for fulfillment of the promise. Great chemistry between TIrzah and Liyam, I loved how they both had suffered, yet God used their pain to bring about something new and beautiful.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Sacred Endurance by Trillia J. Newbell ~ Review

My Review:
A life of faith isn't guaranteed to be an easy one.

Our lives are a marathon of faith, and there are miles where we will be weary and feel like giving up. This an inspiring and encouraging read about not giving up the race, and accepting God's grace and strength for every step of it.

Easy to read Trillia J. Newbell uses personal experiences as well as multiple passages of Scripture to show how God gives us strength and endurance. Once we are His, no one can snatch us out of the Father's hand.

Through every challenge God gives us the strength and faith to endure, though difficult relationships and sin try to discourage us. Hard times will come, but God is there and will provide strength for our labor. I was encouraged and inspired by this book, I thought it was a very timely read. Highly recommend this well written, encouraging, theologically sound book.


I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Blaze of Light: The Inspiring True Story of Green Beret Medic Gary Beikirch, Medal of Honor Recipient ~ by Marcus Brotherton ~ Review

My Review:

On April 1st, 1970 in Dak Saeng, Vietnam Gary Beikirch distinguished himself with selfless acts of bravery and duty which later earned him the Medal of Honor.

Marcus Brotherton tells Gary's story in the troubled years leading up to that day and the things that brought him to Dak Saeng that day. I loved how this story showed Gary's love for the Montagnard people, and how they accepted him as one of their own as he built friendships and relationships with them. This book also tells of the troubled years after that day, and Gary's struggles with coming home, addiction, relationships and God.

Gary's story is vividly told, from his rebellious years and military service, to his journey of faith and the struggles of a returning Vietnam Vet. His story is compelling, and honest, not shying away from his failures, but also not going into explicit detail, all the while showing God's hand in his life, even he couldn't see it. I was inspired by how his faith grew in steps forward and back, it wasn't one moment that changed it all, yet those moments were seeds sown and it took time for those seeds to take root.

Overall, a well written, compelling, true story of one man's commitment to his duty and his journey to faith. I highly recommend this read, it's a great reminder of what Vietnam War Veterans faced upon their return home, as well as one man's journey of faith. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Mama Kisses, Papa Hugs by Lisa Tawn Bergren, illustrated by Aleksandar Zolotie ~ Review

My Review:


A beautifully illustrated picture book that talks about the love between parents for their child, as well as how God reveals his love for us in creation.

Perfect as a bedtime read, this lovely book has gorgeous pictures that show various animals and scenes of nature. A great reminder of how God reveals himself through nature, as well as how parents show love to a child.

This is a really cute book, written in a fun style, and great for sharing with the young person in your life. Makes for a great gift or just because. I loved the color palette of the pictures, and how couple and child are more dark haired with a middle-toned skin color. Adorable read from Lisa Tawn Bergren.


I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Tea Chest by Heidi Chiavaroli ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Two women separated by centuries fight for love and their beliefs, connected by a tea chest.

Emma Malcolm is the daughter of a wealthy loyalist, engaged to be married to a cruel man that her father has chosen for her. But her heart belongs to assistant printer and Patriot, Noah Winslow.

In the present day, Hayley Ashworth is fighting for her dream to become the first female Navy SEAL, but painful memories from her past are holding her back. She reconnects with an old friend, which leads to the discovery of the tea chest and the secrets hidden within.

Hayley has always had to be strong, growing up the daughter of a single mom who went from boyfriend to boyfriend, she has had a tumultuous upbringing. She has always been close to her uncle who is the strongest person that she knows, and she hopes to follow in his footsteps with a military career. She loves the camaraderie that comes with the military, and security of being an important part of a team. I really like how her life changes over the course of the book, as well as her outlook on life and faith. 

Emma is a courageous woman who must sacrifice everything for the ones that she loves. She must whether many trials for her beliefs and to protect the people she cares about. I admired her strength and how she holds on, even when things appeared darkest.

Overall an inspiring story of two women and their remarkable journeys of faith and determination, loyalty and hope. Realistically wrought, this was a masterfully written read, with great characters and well researched. Highly recommend.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Bright Unknown by Elizabeth Byler Younts ~ Review

 My Review:

A heartbreakingly poignant story of friendship, resilience, survival, courage and hope.

Brighton Friedrich has never known a life beyond the walls of the Riverside Home, an asylum for the insane and unwanted. She was born there, where her mother is a patient. She makes friends among the patients, bonding with a beautiful boy affected by albinism, whom she names Angel, and a girl abandoned by her parents named Grace.

She and her friends makes plans to escape the asylum, for a chance at life on the outside. But are she and Angel ready to face the challenges and dangers of a world they have never experienced?

Told through the eyes of Brighton, rolling forward and back in time through the years as she remembers the painful years in the asylum as well as the friends, betrayals and struggle for survival. Beautifully written this book took me captive, as I sympathized with Brighton's horrible plight, clinging to piece after piece of shattered hope.

Secrets are revealed as the time rolls forward and back, yet there are many surprises and twists along the way. I love how the author was able to write such complex and developed characters, no one was all good or all bad, and I loved the challenge of accepting each of them as they were.

Overall, a poignant and heartbreaking read that at times was hard to continue, yet the gimmers of hope kept me holding on along with Brighton. Filled with hope, in even the most stark of places, this is a heartfelt read that you won't soon forget, well worth the read!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Jesus Rose for Me by Jared Kennedy, illustrated by Trish Mahoney ~ Review

My Review:

A bright, colorful board book that tells of the importance of the events leading up to Easter Sunday and what Jesus' death and resurrection means for us. Written in simple, yet straightforward way targeted at ages 3 to 7 years old, it explains the significance of why we celebrate Easter.

I loved how this book is easy to read, with a more simple vocabulary for beginning readers, it also has many great talking points and conversation starters, as well as Bible references for where the original text can be found. I also liked how it talked about communion, and how Jesus died for us, and why that is important.

Overall, an excellent board book that is perfect to share with the young person in your life, great as a gift or just because. I loved how it presents a cornerstone of the Gospel in a way that young children can understand and invites them to ask questions, which can lead to meaningful conversations. Highly recommend this wonderful book!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

An Amish Easter Wish by Jo Ann Brown ~ Review

Lucie's Review: 

A flood brings Abby Kauffman to Evergreen Corners with a team of volunteers to help the town recover from a flood.

David when from being a bachelor to instant father when he received guardianship of his friend's teenage daughter. He wants to be a good father to her, but is struggling to connect with her.

Could a natural disaster help two people find love?

Abby is very outgoing and friendly, she connects instantly with Mikayla. She also loves feeling useful and helping others, but carries guilt from her past. She is a natural with teenagers and she wants to help David and Mikayla however she can.

Englisher David Riehl is struggling to raise his new daughter, he wants to be a good father, but all of his efforts don't seem to be making a dent. He is surprised by Abby's kindness, as his family had a bad experience with the Amish when he was younger. But as they get to know each other he is drawn to her love for others and kindness.

Overall, a heartwarming and enjoyable read about forbidden love, family, and faith. I loved how Abby and David work together and get to know each other that way while also helping Mikayla adjust to her new life. Sweet, and easy to read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Cry of the Raven by Morgan L. Busse ~ Review

My Review:

War has finally come between the Great Houses and the Dominia Empire. But a dark secret from their past threatens to divide their united stand.

Picking up right where the previous book left off, Selene Ravenwood is coming into the full strength of her dreamwalking powers, and her relationship with her husband is growing stronger. This completion of the trilogy is a satisfying read, tying together threads hinted at in previous books as well as forging ahead in new ways. Ms. Busse is a skilled storyteller, with strong world building skills that immersed me into Selene and Damien's world.

I was thrilled by the return of some of my favorite characters from the very first book, like Caiaphas who rises to the occasion to protect his family and country despite the difficult circumstances.

I admired Damien's leadership, and how he put others first when serving his country. I also liked how he grew in his faith through the trials of war, and the burden of suffering.

I also loved how we got to see more of the other houses and how their gifts worked, as well as their friendships among each other, as they overcame doubts and fought side by side for those they loved.

Overall, a fitting conclusion and satisfying read, that expands on the groundwork laid in previous books, showcasing excellent worldbuilding, humanity, political intrigue, powers at play, and a message of hope rooted in faith. Ms. Busse strikes a sweet balance of faith without being too allegory heavy, while still conveying a powerful message. Highly recommended for fans of the series, and Christian fantasy.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Finding Peace in Wishing Bridge by Ruth Logan Herne ~ Review

Review:

Jazz Monroe is settling down after her high profile career seriously threatened her life, she answers the call of one of her best friends which leads her to Wishing Bridge. Her life is settling down, and she's finally finding peace and making friends while working at a small town diner and restoring her new home.

But an unexpected attack has her questioning her safety and her new life.

This book picks up where the previous books left off, continuing to follow both Thea and Kelsey, along with many other beloved community members. Definitely a series that you would benefit from reading in order, as Jazz's story began in the background of the very first book in the series.

Heartwarming read that follows many community members, as well as Jazz's story which adds a touch of suspense. I love how all the of the stories intertwined, bringing people together, connecting them with faith. I loved Max, and Garrett, as well as how it continues the story of the brothers.

Overall, an enjoyable, and utterly fantastic read. I had read the previous book in the series, so when I saw the option to review this one, I jumped at the chance. There was a lot of things going on with multiple engaging storylines and continuing plots from the previous installments. Great depth, and inspiring message of faith. I didn't want to put it down and read it in nearly one sitting. Highly recommend the whole Wishing Bridge Series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Happy Camper by Melody Carlson ~ Review

Lucie's Review: 

Dillon Michaels has fond memories of a stable home with her grandparents, after a rough upbringing with her single mother. She is burned out juggling her finances, job, and non-committal boyfriend. After her grandmother's death she decides to go stay with her grandfather, only to find that her mother has beat her there.

Blessings come in surprising packages with the gift of a vintage trailer that Dillon can make her own. She sets to work restoring the camper, with the help of the local hardware store owner, while supporting her grandfather while navigating her tricky relationship with her mother.

A heartwarming read about family, forgiveness, and new beginnings. I loved the welcoming small town setting, with great characters. I loved the surprises and twists along the way, as Dillon struggles to find stability, hope, and forgiveness. I loved her relationship with her grandparents and how they gave her roots and wings, as well as how she was challenged by her mother to grow, and give grace.

Jordan is a kind community member, fun-uncle, and overall a somewhat baffling man. He is genuine, and well-loved in the community. I liked how he offers to help Dillon, and how he takes the time to be present in the life of his family. 

Overall, a heartwarming, enjoyable, small town read, filled with family, love, humor, and forgiveness.  A great feel-good read, with a great premise, and steady pacing. Highly enjoyable.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Chisholm Trail Bride by Kathleen Y'Barbo Turner ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Eliza Gentry and Wyatt Creed become fast friends as children driving cattle on the Chisholm Trail, but after a horrible tragedy heir friendship is severed.

Nine years later Eliza is engaged to her family's enemy, and her father has hired detective John Brady to keep her safe while she is staying in New Orleans with her treacherous fiance, Ben. Can she escape the trap that she's fallen into?

A fast paced read filled with surprises and twists along the way, there was a lot going on in this cross country adventure. John is an admirable man, quick to action with a measured response to things. He is very responsible and takes his duty seriously, keeping the secrets that he pledged to keep.

Eliza is somewhat sheltered and impulsive, but her heart is mostly in the right place. She longs for higher education and wants to pursue more than just marriage.

I loved Eliza's cousin Justine, she is just the most adorable little girl, she has had to mature quickly and is quick-witted.

Overall, a highly enjoyable story with great characters, and a fast moving plot. I loved the humor and interaction between Eliza and Brady.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Starfish Pier by Irene Hannon ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Opposites attract and spark fly in Hope Harbor for ex-Delta Force member Steven Rourke and first grade teacher, Holly Miller, as the town comes together to raise money for Helping Hands.

Holly is a teacher, pacifist, and pro-life advocate, she has taken on the task of helping to organize the fundraiser for Helping Hands. She is new to town and is excited to jump right in and get involved with the community. She is very persistent, outgoing and friendly.

Steven came to Hope Harbor for rest, and to rebuild his relationship with his brother. He loves his brother dearly, but is having trouble re-establishing that relationship. He is more reserved and has his doubts about others.

I loved coming back to Hope Harbor, Holly is a beautiful and passionate person, her parents are very loving and supportive. While the 6th in a series, it stand well on its own. I loved how Holly is supportive of Steven and his family.

Overall, an engaging small town story of faith and overcoming differences. I loved the relationships and many wonderful people that they get to know and love. Heartwarming, and inspiring, it was a very satisfying read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Falsely Accused by Shirley McCoy ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Framed for her foster brother's death Special Agent Wren Santino must clear her name, but someone is thwarting her every effort to uncover the truth.

Titus Anderson is a childhood friend who steps up to help her unravel the mystery, but helping her put him in the sights of the killer as well. Will they be able to untangle this dangerous conspiracy before someone else gets killed?

A fast paced, action packed drama, filled with suspense and conspiracy. Wren and Titus grew up together, and even though they have had their rough patches have remained friends, as they start working together, they repair their friendship, and support each other through this ordeal.

Wren has always been a strong one, independent and the one that others depended on. She is more reserved and introverted, and is dedicated to her job. She is a good teammate.

Titus has a history in law enforcement, and he has a passion for restoring homes. He has gone through a rough few years, and is happy to help Wren, he has a strong faith that has seen him through many tough times.

Overall, a riveting, and entertaining read with great character interaction and and great pacing throughout. Enjoyed this romantic, high stakes read!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Out of the Embers by Amanda Cabot ~ Review

My Review: 

Evelyn loses everything a second time, when her refuge and workplace is burned down. When she was young her parents were murdered. Afraid that someone is watching her, she flees with the only other survivor, a young girl named Polly, to Mesquite Texas.

Wyatt Clark is a horse trainer and rancher, who takes Evelyn and Polly under his wing, offering them sanctuary on his ranch, where he lives with his mother and sister.

Wyatt's family welcome Evelyn and Polly with open arms, making them feel right at home. Dorothy is a good friend with literary aspirations, proving to be a true friend to Evelyn.

Wyatt is a natural leader and protector, and I admired how he doesn't always choose the easy thing but the right thing to do.

Polly is a adorable child, very helpful, and not too shy about asking for what she wants. She isn't perfect and has her moments of not being the perfect child, which makes her even more cute.

Overall, an engaging western romance, filled with mystery, faith, great relationship building, and a strong heroine. Enjoyable read, and I'm excited to read Dorothy's story next!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Last Words: Seven Sayings from the Heart of Christ on the Cross by Robert J. Nash ~ Review

My Review: 

A compact read based around the significance of the words of Jesus Christ from the cross.

A rather straightforward, simple read, written in devotional style, with each chapter being about a 15 min read, diving in deep and working its way to the gospel, with questions to contemplate at the end. I loved how it drew from Jesus's ministry, and spoke about how each thing he said from the cross supported the claims he had made about himself, and the gospel.

Well researched, referenced, and written, simple yet powerful reminder of Christ's sacrifice, deity and humanity, his grace, and the hope that comes only through Jesus Christ.

Overall, a easy to read, comprehensive book, great to read with bible study or leading up to Easter Sunday.


I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Isaiah's Legacy by Mesu Andrews ~ Review

My Review: 

Young Shulle is taken from the peaceful life with her loving father, to a world fraught with intrigue and sorcery in Prince Manasseh's court. She finds herself lost and confused drawn away from the faith of her youth, to worshipping false gods, while fighting for the love the young prince as he becomes king.

Set during Manasseh's turbulent reign, Mesu Andrews deals skillfully with this complex and at times painful story of sacrifice, forgiveness, and restoration. The story is told through varying points of view, shifting between Shulle, Zibah, and Nasseh, showing the confused and vulnerable king and the women who loved him most.

Though a sequel, this book stands well on it's own. A well researched fictional account showing the danger and darkness of idol worship, as well as the sovereignty of God, in the good and bad. I loved how this book portrayed people with different challenges as equal, but different, showing that they are capable of a great many things.

At times it wasn't an easy book to read, and this book deals with many mature themes--though not explicitly, like the sexual nature of pagan worship, so I wouldn't recommend for younger or more sensitive readers.

Overall, a compelling, and at times heart-wrenching fictionalization of Manasseh's reign and restoration. I loved Shulle from the beginning as a kind hearted young girl, patient and understanding, yet confused and taken advantage of, my heart went out to her. I admired Zibah's faithfulness and her mother's heart for her child. A beautifully, heartbreaking read of love, sin, idolatry and God's sovereignty through it all.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Runaway Bride by Jody Hedlund ~ Review

My Review: 

Arabella Lawrence takes the chance of a lifetime to find a new beginning in Canada, escaping a difficult situation.

Peter Kelly is a prodigal of sorts, making his living as a baker, and also fighting for the fair treatment of the Natives. He is smitten by Arabella from the moment he sees her, but will his past exclude him from vying for her hand?

A fantastic read from beginning to end, from Peter and Arabella who instantly captured my heart, with strong bonds of faith that bring the story together, this was well worth the read. I liked the realistic setting of British Columbia and how it showed the very real tensions between the military and the native peoples.

I admired Arabella's faith and how she grew, finding the courage to fight for herself. She is beautiful from the inside out, with a heart of compassion for others, she realistically struggles to reconcile the societal norms of her past with her brand new life.

Peter is an honorable man, who has made his mistakes in the past, but has come to a saving faith that has changed his whole life. I admired how he makes a point to make intentional choices leading him away from the past. He is a brave advocate for those who cannot speak up, with a strong work ethic, and heart for others.

This book had some of my favorite supporting characters, from Mrs. Moresby, Blind Billy, Sque-is, Haiel-Wat, Pastor Abe, and finally Mercy. A compelling read from the very beginning, with excellent chemistry and romantic tension between Peter and Arabella.

Though part of a series, this book stands well on it's own,  working more as a companion to the previous book in the series.

Overall, an engaging read that had me riveted to the page, fantastic characters, great tension, with a good use of flashbacks, and compelling journeys of faith for both Peter and Arabella. I think that the author did a fantastic job of handling both Arabella's and Peter's pasts in an honest, yet not too explicit way, that only added to my respect for both of them. Highly recommend this well written read!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Dream Horse Adventures Series by Susan Count ~ Blog Blitz & Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog Blitz and Giveaway for Dream Horse Adventures series by Susan Count, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOKS

Title: Mary's Song
Series: Dream Horse Adventures #1
Author: Susan Count
Publisher: Hastings Creations
Genre: Middle Grade Fiction
Release Date: October 13, 2016

A young artist falls in love with a foal that is lame, just like her. The expensive surgery the foal needs has little chance to correct the problem. Still Mary plots and conspires to raise money to save the horse, even as time runs out.

She sacrifices what she holds dear - the trust of her papa, to gain her heart's desire. But she could lose everything in her struggle to save the foal.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository


Title: Selah's Sweet Dream
Series: Dream Horse Adventures #2
Author: Susan Count
Publisher: Hastings Creations
Genre: Middle Grade Fiction
Release Date: December 15, 2015

Twelve-year-old Selah’s quest to be equestrian superstar is impossible without a horse. Then she spots buzzards circling in the grasslands behind Grandpa’s farm. They’re stalking a horse trapped in wire and Selah is its only hope. But the mare she rescues might be a bigger challenge to her dream than not having a horse at all.

An old friend of Grandpa’s and a world renowned horse trainer offers to work with the wild and defiant mare. Selah jumps at the opportunity. She trains with a fierce determination to equal the equestrian talent of the deceased grandmother who instilled the love of horse in her. But when the horse causes mayhem at the trainer’s facility, he sends them home. Selah must gather her courage and face up to the trainer or watch her dreams gallop away

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository

Title: Selah's Painted Dream
Series: Dream Horse Adventures #3
Author: Susan Count
Publisher: Hastings Creations
Genre: Middle Grade Fiction
Release Date: May 7, 2018

Unless thirteen-year-old Selah can convince Grandpa she should live at the farm, her life is ruined. She'll be forced to move hours from her horse and abandon her equestrian dreams.

Determined to stay, Selah must distract Grandpa from his new sweetheart. She searches for a painted dream horse from Grandpa's past. But, Selah finds his old equine partner neglected and near death.

Then Grandpa reveals his life changing decision that tramples Selah's plans. Will the one thing that stood in Selah's way become her saving grace?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository

Title: Selah's Stolen Dream
Series: Dream Horse Adventures #4
Author: Susan Count
Publisher: Hastings Creations
Genre: Middle Grade Fiction
Release Date: October 13, 2016

One girl’s victory is another’s tragic defeat.

Thirteen-year-old Selah’s perfect life unravels when her beloved horse is stolen. Then ten-year-old Emma buys the dream of a lifetime at a horse auction. When she learns the horse was stolen, even removing her hearing aid won’t drown out the voice telling her to make it right.

But two girls can’t divide the horse they both adore. So will life surprise them with an answered prayer?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Susan Count is a life-long equestrian and owned by a Rocky Mountain Horse that is kind hearted enough to take her on long forested trail rides. She adores grandchildren, horses, and bunnies. 

Instilled with the need to create, she loves building projects and writing adventure stories. She writes at an antique secretary desk that occupies a glass room with a forest view. Fittingly, it once belonged to the grandmother who introduced her to the love of reading via Walter Farley's horse books. That desk has secret compartments which hold memories, mysteries, and story ideas.

Susan has published four books in an equestrian series. As a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, American Christian Fiction Writers, and Texas Association of Authors, she takes studying the craft of writing seriously. Revision is her super-power.

 She says the only thing more fun than riding might be writing horse adventure stories and she invites you to saddle up and ride along. You can learn more about Susan's work by visiting her website!

CONNECT WITH SUSAN: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a copy of Selah's Secret Dream, Selah's Painted Dream, and Selah's Stolen Dream plus a $25 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway will begin at midnight March 5, 2020 and last through 11:59 PM EST on March 12, 2020. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. Continental US mailing addresses only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.