2.27.2022

Riverbend Gap by Denise Hunter // Review

My Review:
Katelyn Loveland moved to Riverbend looking for family, instead she finds a love that could tear a family apart. 

Katelyn finds her self in a precarious situation, teetering on the edge of a cliff while on her way to share a family meal with her new boyfriend. Deputy Cooper Robinson comes to her rescue, as they bond on the side of the cliff, Cooper loses his heart. But when he discovers that she is his brother's new girlfriend, he vows to not let his feelings for her go any further. Can they be a part of each other's lives without losing their hearts. 

The first in a new series, we are introduced to the Robinson family who are a big part of their small community. Katie is new to town, hoping to reconnect with her long lost mother, and working for her college friend Avery Robinson as a nurse in her clinic. I really enjoyed meeting the Robinson family and getting to know the members of their family. I really liked the friendship between Katie and Avery, and how they are there for each other. 

Cooper is running for Sheriff and along with that come unforeseen challenges that question his reputation, along with his growing feelings for Kate. This was a fast paced read with well developed characters and good interaction, though I'm not a huge fan of love triangle drama and I felt that I could see the conflict coming. 

Overall, a romantic family drama, set in a charming small town, filled with second chances, faith and family. 

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

Worship by A. W. Tozer // Review

My Review:

I am always amazed at how timely Tozer's writings are, and this book is no different. In this 11 chapter compilation on the subject of worship, including some never before published material. 

Tozer's passionate plea for the Christians to return to pure God centered worship shines with zeal and cutting conviction. Just as relevant today as when it was written over 50 years ago. A powerful read, Tozer takes a closer look at the reason for which we were created, our attitudes and how we can get back to a Christ centered worship. 

Tozer is concise, firm and cutting he doesn't pull back punches. He is well spoken and with excellent illustrations to get his points across. Truly a standout among Tozer's writings, a must read for Christians. Convicting and encouraging read that emphasizes the major role that worship should play in our walk with Christ. 

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

2.26.2022

The Adoption Surprise by Zoey Marie Jackson // Review

Lucie's Review:

A chance encounter. Surprise sisters.

A cute romance with an adorable parent trap twist. Kelsey is raising her niece, Morgan, after a horrible accident that took the lives of her parents. Kelsey is happy to see her come out of her shell when she meets Mia an outgoing little girl who just so happens to be Morgan's twin. Separated and adopted to different families Morgan and is are happy to be reunited. Can Kelsey and Zack help to heal their hurting hearts. 

A sweet story, with adorable little girls. I liked how outgoing Mia is she is a charmer and she is definitely the natural leader of the two. I liked how Kelsey and Zack got to know each other through their kids. Though I did question the realistic-ness of the heartbreaking custody questions that crop up, and I know that those parts made the book harder for me to enjoy. 

Overall, for the most part a cute read with sweet main characters. A heartwarming romance filled with faith and family. 

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

2.25.2022

Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War by Mary Davis // Celebrate Lit Tour, Review, and Giveaway

 


About the Book



Book: Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War

Author: Mary Davis

Genre: Christian / Historical Fiction / Romance

Release date: February 1, 2022

A WASP Goes Above the Call of Duty to Free Captive American Soldiers

Full of intrigue, adventure, and romance, this new series celebrates the unsung heroes—the heroines of WWII.

Peggy Witherspoon, a widow, mother, and pilot flying for the Women’s Airforce Service in 1944 clashes with her new reporting officer. Army Air Corp Major Howie Berg was injured in combat and is now stationed at Bolling Field in Washington D.C. Most of Peggy’s jobs are safe, predictable, and she can be home each night with her three daughters—until a cargo run to Cuba alerts her to American soldiers being held captive there, despite Cuba being an “ally.” Will Peggy go against orders to help the men—even risk her own life?

Don’t miss these other stories about Heroines of WWII:
The Cryptographer’s Dilemma by Johnnie Alexander
A Picture of Hope by Liz Tolsma
Saving Mrs. Roosevelt by Candice Sue Patterson

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

An engaging historical read that gives the readers a glimpse into the life of a WASP during WWII. 

I liked that Peggy is a mother, and experienced pilot. She is a good friend, and knows what she is talking about. I loved how well researched the book was and how it showed the work and dedication that the women put into their jobs serving their country. Peggy is a courageous heroine and I liked that she didn't back down from a challenge when lives were on the line. 

Howie isn't pleased to be stationed stateside because of an injury. But Howie is a gentleman, he sees that the women want to work and prove themselves, and he is ready to learn from his mistakes. I love how he quickly befriends Peggy's daughters, and how he stands up for the women under his command. 

Overall, this is a well written read with great characters, faith, friendship and love. I loved how it showed the pride that the women took in their work as well as their bravery serving their country. Engaging read filled with faith, love and daring. Definitely recommend.

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

About the Author



MARY DAVIS is a bestselling, award-winning author of over thirty titles in both historical and contemporary themes. She has been in numerous compilations and collections. Stories and characters have been running around in her head for as long as she can remember. Her published works have been on Publisher’s Weekly bestselling lists several times. Some of her works include her award-winning Quilting Circle series and Newlywed Games.

An empty-nester, Mary lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband of over thirty-seven years and a black Norwegian Forest cat. She has three adult children and three incredibly adorable grandchildren. She enjoys playing board and card games, rain, and cats. She would enjoy gardening if she didn’t have a black thumb. Her hobbies include quilting, porcelain doll making, sewing, crafts, crocheting, knitting, and papercrafts.

 

More from Mary

AIRBORNE



When my agent asked if I had a WWII story idea that might fit in with Barbour’s Heroines of WWII series, I had to tell her I didn’t. At the time, I was writing book 4 in a series set in 1894 and proofing audio chapters for book 3 in that series. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to tackle war, but I told my agent I would think on it and pray. If the Lord wanted me to write a WWII era story, He would give me an idea. So I prayed.

I knew women had done some military flying but didn’t know the details, so I jump into some quick research. I couldn’t take too much time away from my current novel and its rapidly approaching deadline. When an idea started forming with a WASP (Women Airforce Service Pilots), I wrote a brief one-page outline of my rough idea. I knew I couldn’t take too much time away from my other project to write a whole proposal if I was going to be told the publisher already had a story in the series about a WASP, which I assumed they had. Because who wouldn’t want to write about lady pilots?



My idea about a WASP, who flies an unsanctioned secret mission to rescue three US soldiers held captive in Cuba, now needed a title. No sooner had I thought that I needed a title than one—which I thought would be nothing more than a placeholder—popped into my flakey little head: Mrs. Witherspoon Goes To War. Well, now my heroine, at least, had a last name. My critique partners seemed to like this title, so I added it to my outline and sent it off to my agent, then I got right back to work on my novel with the looming deadline.

Since the publishing industry typically moves very slow, I figured I had a good chunk of time before I would find out if I needed to write a full proposal. So back to work on my contracted novel. Surprisingly, the publisher came back immediately with strong interest in the idea and wanted a full proposal in a week. Fortunately, this editor knew my writing, so I didn’t have to include three sample chapters, but my synopsis needed to be strong in details.

So now, I had a full, detailed proposal to write with historical notes ASAP, a novel I needed to finish writing, and audio chapters to listen to and give feedback on. Bouncing between two different eras isn’t easy and to keeping things straight. With God grace, I got the proposal written and submitted, the audio chapters checked, as well as completing my contracted novel, which I managed to turn in on time. Barely.



Since the publisher seemed very interested in my WWII premise and I had book 5 in my Quilting Circle series to get started on soon, I needed to pick up the pace on my writing. With the idea still fresh in my head and the WWII novel would be due first (if contracted), I decided to use NaNoWriMo in November to write a 50,000 word rough draft of Mrs. Witherspoon Goes To War, which would eventually be around 80,000.

As November progressed and my word count grew, I fell more and more in love with my characters in Mrs. Witherspoon Goes To War. I obviously received and signed a contract. I continued to enjoy my characters as I finished writing and editing this novel.

I would have to say that Mrs. Witherspoon Goes To War is in my top five of the books I have written. My prayer is that this story ministers to others as it did to me as I wrote it.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, February 24

An Author's Take, February 24

Debbie's Dusty Deliberations, February 25

Labor Not in Vain, February 25

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 25

Texas Book-aholic, February 26

Jeanette's Thoughts, February 26

Inklings and notions, February 27

Bizwings Blog, February 27

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, February 28

Southern Gal Loves to Read, February 28

For Him and My Family, February 28

Sodbuster Living, March 1

deb's Book Review, March 1

She Lives to Read, March 2

Remembrancy, March 2

Betti Mace, March 3

Locks, Hooks and Books, March 3

Older & Smarter?, March 3

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, March 4

Blossoms and Blessings, March 4

Rebecca Tews, March 5

Connie's History Classroom, March 5

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, March 6 (Spotlight)

Through the Fire Blogs, March 6

Pause for Tales, March 6

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, March 7

Genesis 5020, March 7

Library Lady's Kid Lit, March 8

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 8

Reflections From My Bookshelves, March 9

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, March 9

Pause for Tales, March 9


Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Mary is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

 https://promosimple.com/ps/1b059/mrs-witherspoon-goes-to-war-celebration-tour-giveaway

2.20.2022

The Gathering Table by Kathryn Springer // Review

My Review: 

Personal Chef Jessica is turning a page in her life. Starting over in the small town of Winsome Lake, as a live-in cook after losing her job to a horrible misunderstanding. But when she arrives she finds that her employer had a stroke and is recuperating in rehab, but instead of being alone she finds herself surrounded by a community of people that welcome her into their lives. 

A heartwarming, feel-good story about a small town community, faith, love and finding home. I liked how this book followed both Elaine and Jess, as they make the most of their situations finding friendship and a chance at love along the way. Jess was reluctant at first, but as people kept coming to her, she found the right things to say or do to give them comfort. Jess had a rough upbringing, and I liked how that gave her compassion for those around her. Elaine is a strong woman of faith, and I loved how she found a home among her friends in Winsome Lake. Plus her and Matthew were super adorable. 

Overall, this was a heartwarming read with wonderful characters, friendship and faith. I loved how Jess connected with Christopher and Sienna helping them and giving them confidence. This is such an enjoyable read, and definitely recommend it to someone looking for a faith filled feel-good romance. 

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

Hostile Intent by Lynette Eason // Review

Lucie's Review:

An intense read, the book starts out on a dark note showing the terror inflicted by the murderer. Which made the book harder for me personally to get into because I tend to not like the darker reads, and I didn't like to be in the bad guy's head so much. 

I was so happy to see that Caden was finally getting a story, since he has long been the supportive brother and friend in the background of previous books. Ava leaves the military to care for her ailing mother, finding herself in the crosshairs of a killer. I loved the relationship between Caden and Ava, how they grew up together as family friends and become closer while working to catch the killer. They have a strong foundation of friendship and I liked how they worked together as their relationship grew. 

Overall this was an action packed read, with great character development and great chemistry. I liked how they both relied on their faith throughout, and found someone that they could trust. An explosive conclusion to an excellent series. 

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

2.18.2022

Network of Deceit by Tom Threadgill // Review

Lucie's Review:

A seemingly accidental death at a waterpark turns into a full blown homicide investigation. 

I wasn't aware that this book was the second in a series going into it, and it had a slower start. Amara finds herself challenged by the case, that has startling personal risk as well. The stake raise as the story unfolds and I liked that it had that chilling element to it, and that she has a good friend to lean on. 

Once it got going, it kept picking up speed. I think that the book does a great job of following Amara and showing the things that she faced as part of her new job. This book has a strong focus on the case, and less on Amara's personal life, though I liked her relationship with her mother. 

Overall, this was a solid read, though I did get the feeling that I had come in on the middle of something. I would probably recommend reading the first book in the series to better understand the situation and Amara's life. Though in the end I really enjoyed it, and liked how it looks at the dangers online.


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

2.15.2022

To Disguise the Truth by Jen Turano // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Eunice Holbrooke's past catches up with her when a man comes to hire her to find herself!

Arthur Livingston is shocked when the Bleaker Street Inquiry Agency refuses his case, but he is intrigued by the eccentric and mysterious woman behind the veil. As Eunice's past becomes impossible to ignore they must fight together to discover the truth. 

Jen Turano is back again with another delightfully humorous adventure. I loved getting to know Eunice better in this book, finally discovering some of the secrets from her past. Arthur is a kind and honorable man, and he doesn't mind going off on tangents with Eunice. 

Overall this is such a fun read, though at times I thought that off topic conversations could run too long into distraction. I loved the humor and interactions, this was a fun read, and didn't disappoint!

I received a complimentary ecopy of this book. My opinions are my own. 

2.14.2022

In Search of a Prince by Toni Shiloh // Review

Review:

25 year old Brielle Bayo is content with her life as a middle school teacher in New York City, when suddenly it is revealed to her that she is actually a princess in a country halfway around the world. Next thing she knows she is juggling royal duties, court intrigue and searching for a husband!

A modern day fairy tale full of faith, friendship, family and romance. 
Brielle is shocked to find out that she is a princess in a foreign country, but is excited to learn more about her deceased father and the rich history of the land of his birth. I admired Bri for standing up for herself, and being open to the possibilities around her. Iris is an amazing friend and an excellent cheerleader, she has an infectious energy about her. Iris is passionate about her dreams and has a big heart for others. 

This is a enjoyable read, with a sweet romance and a fun plot. I loved the interaction between Mori and Bri as they get to know each other, as well as how they are both strong in their faith. I think that the author did an excellent job of bringing to life the diverse and fictional kingdom of Oloro Ile, along with the intrigues and politics. But most of all I loved how Brielle was a strong, intelligent woman of faith, open to learning new things and gracefully navigating difficult situations. Excellent for fans of fairy tale romance, with characters you can cheer for. 

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

2.06.2022

High Wire Heartbreak by Anna Schmidt // Celebrate Lit, Review, and Giveaway

 


About the Book

 


Book: High-Wire Heartbreak

Author: Anna Schmidt

Genre: Christian/Romance/History

Release date: January 1, 2022

In 1936–A party at the Ringling mansion Ca d’Zan in Sarasota, Florida, leads to a robbery–and possibly death.

A successful historical mystery writer, Chloe Whitfield comes to Ca’ d’Zan to research her next novel. Chloe’s fascination with the circus is rooted in family stories of her great-grandmother Lucinda Conroy, who reportedly was a trapeze artist of some renown. She’s heard hints of scandal—and perhaps larceny, but no details.

Chloe’s grandmother—rumored to be Lucinda’s only offspring—was raised in an orphanage and never knew her mother. Intrigued as she is, Chloe has no intent of writing about Lucinda until she sees a poster featuring Lucinda as the star performer for a 70th birthday gala for John Ringling in May of 1936. From there the trail goes cold.

Who was Lucinda and what happened to her?

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

While researching her latest project Chloe is drawn into the mystery and intrigue of what happened to her great-grandmother so many years ago. 

A well written read that balances a split-time storyline, with an intriguing mystery that reveals secrets once left in the past. Chloe is a historical mystery writer researching for her next book, she stumbles upon information about her long lost great-grandmother and decides to follow where the clues lead. Can heartbreak lead to lasting love? 

An engaging read, with excellent characters and an intriguing plot. I liked how Chloe and Ian bonded over faith as they slowly worked together to uncover the past. Lucinda's part of the story was my favorite of the two by only a small margin, and I was cheering for her the whole way through. Nardo is a kind and honest man, who was always there for her when she needed him most. 

Overall, this was a highly enjoyable novel that does an excellent job of blending 1936 and the present day with believable heroes and heroines. Poignant and full of faith, this book kept drawing me in. Definitely recommend!

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

About the Author



Anna Schmidt is the author of over twenty works of fiction. Among her many honors, Anna is the recipient of Romantic Times’ Reviewer’s Choice Award and a finalist for the RITA award for romantic fiction. She enjoys gardening and collecting seashells at her winter home in Florida.

 

 

 

 

 

More from Anna


It’s hard to split time living between Wisconsin and Sarasota Florida and NOT get caught up in the circus world! The Ringlings are icons in Sarasota where a LOT of things are named for them! But the five circus brothers got their start right here in Wisconsin. So, when the opportunity to create a story for DOORS TO THE PAST came my way, it was pretty much a no-brainer that I would go with John and Mable Ringling’s incredible home, Ca ‘d Zan as the setting. Then somehow, I stumbled on this picture:

and I knew she was my character of Lucinda, the trapeze artist whose story would drive my novel. I hope you fall in love with her—and Chloe—as I did, and most of all I hope you’ll be in touch to let me know what you thought at http://booksbyanna.com.

HAPPY READING and all best wishes, Anna

Blog Stops

Debbie's Dusty Deliberations, January 25

Remembrancy, January 25

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, January 25 (Author Interview)

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, January 26

For the Love of Literature, January 26

Where Faith and Books Meet, January 26

Genesis 5020, January 27

Texas Book-aholic, January 27

Inklings and notions, January 28

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 28

Rachael's Inkwell, January 28

Austen's Angle: Jane Austen's Influence in Modern America, January 29

For Him and My Family, January 29

Rebecca Tews, January 29

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 30

deb's Book Review, January 30

Tell Tale Book Reviews, January 31

Wishful Endings, January 31

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 31

Bizwings Blog, February 1

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, February 1

Book Butterfly in Dreamland, February 1

Older & Smarter?, February 2

Connie's History Classroom, February 2

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, February 3 (Spotlight)

Bigreadersite, February 3

Blogging with Carol, February 3

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, February 4

Life of Literature, February 4

Stephanie's Life of Determination, February 4

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 5

Joannabair, February 5

Blossoms and Blessings, February 6

Pause for Tales, February 6

Labor Not in Vain, February 6

Splashes of Joy, February 7

Through the Fire Blogs, February 7


Giveaway



To celebrate her tour, Anna is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon e-gift card and paper copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

 https://promosimple.com/ps/186c0/high-wire-heartbreak-celebration-tour-giveaway

2.01.2022

Forever by Your Side by Tracie Peterson // Review


Review:

Constance Browning returns to the reservation where she grew up with her missionary parents in order to record the history of the native people, and clear the names of her parents who have been falsely accused of stirring up the Indians. 

An engaging historical read, with likable main characters and familiar faces from previous books as well. I liked how Connie is passionate about helping the Indians record their story, and I liked her friendship with Tom. Tom doesn't share her faith, but he is trying and willing to challenge his own beliefs which I admired. Connie's family is welcoming to him, and I liked the ease with which her father ministers to the people he touches. 

Overall, this was a welcomed historical read. I haven't read a Tracie Peterson in a while and this one reminded me about why I loved her so much growing up. I thought that Ms. Peterson did an excellent job of portraying the Native voices, showing how they had been wronged by what the government was doing to them. A well rounded read with excellent characters, strong elements of faith, romance, and mystery.

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