Summer in the Spotlight by Liz Johnson // Review

My Review: 

When a hurricane comes through PEI wreaking havoc on the island and Kelsey Ahern's plans, she finds herself without a job. But Kelsey is determined to restore the old Victoria Playhouse where she grew up performing alongside her grandmother. But she finds help and an ally in one of the most unlikely sources, the quiet janitor Levi Ross. 

I loved how Kelsey just lit up doing what she loved, her hardworking enthusiasm for theater on PEI, as well as her saintly patience with a certain difficult actor. Levi is probably my favorite of the Ross brothers, he has a quiet strength, and isn't a man of many words, but behind his unassuming exterior he hides a heart of gold, with an appreciation for literature. One of my favorite parts of this books was his friendship with Dustin, and how he encourages and instill confidence in the young man. 

A heartwarming small town romance, with compelling characters, strong faith, and a picturesque setting. I have a special place in my heart for The Importance of Being Earnest,  so I thought it was so awesome that it was featured in this book. I loved Kelsey and Levi together, as well as catching up with the rest of the family in this satisfying conclusion to a fantastic series!

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

Buy a copy here:Summer in the Spotlight by Liz Johnson 

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases*

Convincing the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund // Review

My Review: 

When a mysterious "cousin" shows up claiming their Uncle's legacy, Patience and Felicity Courtney suddenly find themselves homeless. Patience agrees to a marriage of convenience in order to survive, marrying a local rancher in need of help with his young daughter. 

My jaw was on the ground when Patience and Felicity were turned from their home in the beginning of the story. It made me so mad after everything they had been through in the previous book, but definitely a strong hook for this story!

Patience is a special soul, she brings light everywhere she goes, and is like a Mary Poppins to young Evangeline. I admired her optimism and enthusiasm, as well as her gentle heart.  

Spencer is hardworking and practical. He has worked hard for his success, and is a fair employer. He is a good father, but he only has so many hours in the day and a ranch to run. Tex was one of my favorite characters, always ready to offer a helping hand he has some years wisdom on him and seems to know when he's needed and when to disappear. 

Overall, this was a sweet and romantic marriage of convenience romance. I was so happy for Patience to find more than what she ever hoped for with her new family, little Evangeline is the sweetest, but also one to keep your eye on! A satisfying western romance, with plenty of great chemistry, and a darling little girl. I can't wait to read Felicity's story next!

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

*All of the books in the Colorado Cowgirls series are sweet, closed-door romances with plenty of sizzle. The inspirational themes are light, and the romance is the main focus of the books.

 

Buy a copy here: 

Convincing the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund

* As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

A Little Christian's 123s by Lila Noffsinger // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: A Little Christian’s 123s

Author: Lila Noffsinger

Genre: Christian Children’s Picture Book

Release Date: October, 2022

A Little Christian’s 123s is a fun and playful read that teaches kids numbers with rhymes and Bible stories. This charming bite-sized book is packed with Biblical truth, and children learn not only their numbers but also the foundations of Christianity!

Big, bold, colorful numbers help little ones with number recognition, and kids of all ages learn about key biblical stories in this endlessly re-readable book. The pictures are inspired by real, geographic places, and they give adorably illustrated glimpses of what Jericho, Mt. Siani, and the Sea of Galilee actually looked liked!

Kids love this charming book for the colorful and engaging illustrations, and parents love that it teaches numbers wrapped in Biblical truth, and that, with every read, their kids are reminded that Jesus loves them.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 My Review:

A delightful rhyming read to share with the young ones in your life. 

Counting up from 1 to 10 this playful read shares solid Biblical truths. Perfect for preschool aged or pre-preschool children, this short story is accompanied by charming illustrations. This book brought a smile to my face, with its simple and straightforward presentation of truth. Definitely a great book, and one that I will add to my list of great baby gifts! Highly recommend!

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

About the Author

Lila Noffsinger grew up in a lazy beach town and now lives in an energetic city with her husband and two daughters. She has always loved sharing her Christian faith through the written word, and she is now excited to share her debut children’s book.

In looking for books for her first daughter, she had difficulty finding options that were not only educational but also spiritually enriching and visually engaging. After having her second daughter, she had some midnight hours to let her mind wander, that wandering turned into what became A Little Christian’s 123s. She looks forward to publishing more books in the Little Chrsitian series, teaching preschool level learning concepts with Bible stories. A Little Christian’s Animals is
currently in the works and expected to be available Fall 2023.

When Lila isn’t writing or researching what camel saddles looked like for a future book (true story), she is playing with her girls, cooking, crafting, reading, and adventuring with her family.

 

More from Lila

My first daughter was a good sleeper. As an infant, she would wake up, eat, and 20 minutes
later we’d be snuggling into our respective beds to return to dreamland. My second daughter
was a different story. When she woke up and ate, it was only the start of our time together.
To stay awake, I thought of traits of my family for each letter of the alphabet. My daughter is
Adorable, Bubbly, Caring, and so on. After nights of this, it morphed into things from the Bible
for each letter, and then later for each number. I enjoyed dwelling on these thoughts through
the midnight hours.

Meanwhile, in the daylight hours, I struggled to find books I wanted to read to my 1.5 year old.
We read and enjoyed a lot of books! But I desired to find a book that was cute, biblically
enriching, and educational. We had plenty of books that met one or two of the categories, but I
had this unexplainable urge to find a book that hit the trifecta.

Through God’s prompting and my own sleep deprivation, my nighttime musings and my daytime
seekings merged into the idea of writing my own book: A cute, Bible-based book about
numbers 1-10. The trifecta!

The book idea grew, and within the year people were reading published copies of A Little
Christian’s 123s! I am eternally grateful to illustrator Lucy Shin, who took my awful sketches
and pages and pages of historical and geographic reference pictures, and turned them into such
cute and engaging art! Without her, the book may have been educational and biblically
enriching, but I promise you that nobody would have wanted to look at it.

Since publishing the book, it has sold hundreds of copies and been enjoyed by kids all across the
country. My daughter loves to tell me that Jesus loves her and that He is her friend, which she
learned from the last page. I hope and pray that similar experiences are happening in other
homes as well!

It is an honor to be on tour with Celebrate Lit, and to celebrate this tour, I hope that you will
enjoy these coloring pages inspired by the art in A Little Christian’s 123s. Thanks!

Blog Stops

Lots of Helpers, August 16

Girls in White Dresses, August 16

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 17

Library Lady’s Kid Lit, August 18

Vicky Sluiter, August 18

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 19

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, August 20

Texas Book-aholic, August 21

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, August 22

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, August 23

Older & Smarter?, August 24

The Book Club Network, August 25

For Him and My Family, August 26

Artistic Nobody, August 27

Cover Lover Book Review, August 28

Labor Not in Vain, August 29

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lila is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon Gift Card, a signed hardcover book, and an accompanying activity & coloring 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/27323/a-little-christian-s-123s-celebration-tour-giveaway

Hero Debut by Angela Ruth Strong // Just Read

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Hero Debut by Angela Ruth Strong, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Hero Debut
Series: Love Off Script #2
Author: Angela Ruth Strong
Publisher: Kregel
Release Date: August 29, 2023
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

"Another sparkling feel-good romance, brimming with perfect doses of heart and heat!"-- Bethany Turner, award-winning author of The Do-Over 

Gemma Bennett is the leading lady of her own life, and her true love is writing screenplays. With her trusty pink notebook in hand, she signs up for the Citizen's Safety Academy to research her newest blockbuster hope, a rom-com with a police officer as the hero. And the fact that the handsome and heroic Lieutenant Karson Zellner is the one leading the training? Well, who can blame her for wanting to spend evenings with the man she swooned over months ago when he responded to a call at her apartment? 

Karson already has his fair share of problems before Gemma shows up, and he's not exactly a fan of the ditzy blonde who can't seem to stay out of trouble. The last thing he needs is a damsel in distress to rescue; there are plenty of people in real need of his help. The fact that she seems to think his job makes him a superhero is just one more strike against her. This isn't a movie, and he feels like the furthest thing from a leading man. 

Gemma can't seem to stop doing the worst, most embarrassing things at just the wrong time. And as time goes on, Gemma begins to realize that the scripts for a perfect screenplay and a real-life happily-ever-after are two very different things. Can she step out of her own way to find the hero her story needs?

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop | BookBub

My Review: 

A vibrant rom-com, full of witty dialogue, faith, friendship, with a sunshine-grumpy romance!

Aspiring screenwriter Gemma Bennett takes a Citizen's Safety class to learn more for her writing project, as well as take advantage of a chance to get close to a certain handsome cop. Gemma is used to be not being taken seriously due to her looks, she is actually quite talented. I admired her unflagging determination and enthusiasm. My favorite parts had to be the scene between her and Karson, the banter and body language between them crackles with energy and insight, plus all the humorous misunderstandings that tends to take place when they are together. 

Karson is the perfect brooding-hero-with-a-heart-of-gold, he is determined to not have his head turned by Gemma, but with each of their interactions can't help but let some of his armor slip. I also really liked his family and his nephew, Philip. 

A feel-good romance, with great relationship building, full of humor, faith, and heart. I adored each of the little quotes prefacing each chapter, I wanted to clip them out and cross stitch them on a sample because they were so perfect for the story and also just in general. A stand out contemporary romance that brought me through a full range of emotions with its heroic protagonists, highly recommend!

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

More in This Series

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About the Author

Angela Ruth Strong is an expert on Write That Book, blogs on inspyromance.com and How to Write a Novel, and is the founder of IDAhope Writers. She is the author of the Resort to Love series and the CafFUNated mysteries. Angela lives in Meridian, Idaho

Connect with Angela by visiting angelaruthstrong.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive signed copies of Husband Auditions & Hero Debut and some book-themed items that play a role in the plots of each book!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight August 28, 2023 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 4, 2023. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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

Sky of Seven Colors by Rachelle Nelson // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: Sky of Seven Colors

Author: Rachelle Nelson

Genre: YA Fantasy

Release Date: August 8, 2023

In a strange part of the forest, the divide between worlds grows thin.

After the accident, Meg would do anything to wake her best friend from his deadly coma. At least, that’s what she whispered into the woodland shadows. She never imagined her wish would trap her in a gray other-earth, void of any color.

Meg’s vibrant humanity is a priceless artifact in the gray kingdom, coveted by the royal court. All she wants to do is find a way back home. Until she discovers the other-earth contains healing powers that can save her friend. But only if Meg becomes what the gray people need—a human bride for Kalmus, the powerful king of the capital city.

With her heart torn between earths, Meg’s choices may cost more than she knows.

 

Click here to get your copy!

My Review: 

An engaging and imaginative adventure with a plucky heroine willing to risk it all for those she loves. 

A riveting novel set in a startlingly otherworldly land lacking color, with a compelling heroine and strangely intriguing characters that quietly won me over. Often while reading this book I found it in my mind a combination between Fae and Narnian. A world inhabited by strange giants, where costly bargains are made and words can be a pledges of honor or a trap. 

Though set in a fantasy world, the struggles have a humanity to them, and it was easy to cheer for Meg as she fights for her friends. I liked that Meg was flawed, but that made her more loveable as a human character in this fantasy land, and the creatures around her are also a mix of their own desires and the ways that they let those rule them. This is a story that grew on me quietly over the course of the adventure, and is a perfect standalone read. A wonderful read for anyone who loves an immersive and imaginative fantasy, with a compelling heroine to cheer for all the way through!

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

About the Author

Rachelle Nelson grew up reading fantasy novels and getting her clothes muddy in the pine forests of Idaho. These days, she still loves hiking through mountains and libraries, though she is a bit less fond of mud. She doesn’t write true stories, but she writes about truth. When Rachelle is not reading and writing, she sings in a band with her talented husband, who makes her happier than should be legal. If you like adventures, good food, and honest conversations, you are her favorite kind of person.

 

More from Rachelle

Sky of Seven Colors is a story, in part, about beauty. I wrote it for my younger self, and for all the women I love.

When I was twelve years old, the girls in my neighborhood frequently weighed themselves and ended up forming an “under-100-club”. I have no idea why the arbitrary measurement of one hundred pounds was chosen, but I do know I was the first to outgrow the standard. A fact that was made known to the neighborhood boys during a driveway basketball game.

A chant began. “One hundred, one hundred.” And I didn’t play basketball again for the rest of the summer.

At the time, I didn’t know I would soon grow to my full height of 5’9” and would always be “bigger” than the other girls. I was convinced I could never be beautiful if I was the biggest, and I desperately wanted to be beautiful. You will probably think I was vain if I tell you I prayed every night before bed that God would make me prettier.

Now, as a woman well into her thirties, I am much more comfortable with the body God gave me. I have been a youth mentor for over a decade, and while getting to know some amazing teens, I have come to appreciate that every girl wants to be beautiful.

And they are.

I’m not just saying that in the “everyone is pretty in their own way” sense. I mean it. It’s an indisputable truth.

Femininity is beautiful.

Youth in and of itself is beautiful.

And powerful. You don’t have to look far in the world to see that these things are desired, commodified, admired, sometimes cherished, and more often exploited. And every girl possesses them.

I have watched as generations of girls desperately long to be something they already are. They diet and compare and shop for anything to help them look their best. In our youth, we blindly walk out the perils and the gifts of beauty.

In my debut young adult fantasy novel, Meg travels to a colorless other-earth where she is the only human in a royal city of strange, gray people. The elites of society prize Meg’s color for its rare traits, and seek to control it, even pressing her into an ancient, binding agreement with their king.

Her color is intrinsic, like all of our bodies, not something she chose. And it is what everyone sees when they look at her. The color puts her in danger, and it is a gift she carries. But she must decide who she will be in spite of that gift, and also because of it.

Just like all girls must choose to respond to a world that sees them for their bodies.

The Bible has something profound to say about the connection between our outer and inner selves in this verse from 1st Peter:

“Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self….”

Meg is a very flawed character and doesn’t make all the right choices along the way. (I don’t know many people in life who fully have, even if we’re trying.) But she does come to understand that being desired and being loved are two different things, a truth I want every girl in my life to grasp deeply. And if Meg’s identity comes from within, she will have to choose the path of loving others, even when it seems impossible.

Especially then.

Blog Stops

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, August 17

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 18

Texas Book-aholic, August 19

Through the Fire Blogs, August 20 (Author Interview)

Christina’s Corner, August 20

Locks, Hooks and Books, August 21

Tell Tale Book Reviews, August 22

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, August 23

The Book Club Network, August 24

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, August 25

Blogging With Carol, August 26

Labor Not in Vain, August 27

Simple Harvest Reads, August 28 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Beauty in the Binding, August 29 (Author Interview)

Raining Butterfly Kisses, August 29

Of Blades and Thorns, August 30

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Rachelle is giving away the grand prize package of a hardback copy of Sky of Seven Colors, a $50 Amazon gift card, a signed bookplate, a set of 3 bookish themed waterproof stickers, and a bookmark with exclusive Sky of Seven Colors character art!!

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/2716b/sky-of-seven-colors-celebration-tour-giveaway

A Mother's Strength by Allie Pleiter // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Single mom Molly Kane is worried about her young son Zack, who struggles with fear and anxiety. Molly is ready to try anything, so she asks Sawyer Bradshaw to teach her son golf. But will Sawyer's past cast a shadow on their growing relationship?

A heartwarming story with characters that will melt your heart. My heart instantly went out to Molly and Zack, and I could just picture little Zach right away, his struggles were portrayed realistically and in such a relatable way. 

Engaging story that had me emotionally invested from the start. I loved the friendship between Zack and Sawyer, and how they both help each other deal with what they are working through. Such a beautiful story, heartfelt, by the end I felt like the characters were my dear friends. Highly recommend!

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

Dreams Rekindled by Amanda Cabot // Review

My Review: 

Dorothy Clark has written off marriage, and instead dreams of putting her words to paper to inspire and inform others. When Newspaperman Brandon Holloway comes to Mesquite Springs to start a paper, she jumps at the chance to assist him, but as trouble stirs in town Brandon and Dorothy must decide to take a stand or stay silent. 

A historical romance set in the growing town of Mesquite Springs, though the second in a series, it could be read as a stand alone. Dorothy is an observant and capable young woman, she is kind to others and has a way of putting them at ease. I liked how she encourages Brandon, and her relationship with her little niece, Polly, is adorable. 

This was an enjoyable historical romance with likable characters, and a bit of mystery. Nutmeg the dog was super sweet, and I loved the scenes with her in them. I also liked the themes of faith and redemption, woven into the story. A great addition to the series. 

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

The Christmas List of Richard Lindsay by Bruce Lindsay, illustrated by Dan Bur // Review

My Review:

A heartwarming Christmas story based on the true story of a young boy growing up in the Great Depression who wanted to bring Christmas cheer to those around him. 

Beautifully illustrated Christmas story about the joy of giving. I loved how young Richard's excitement in giving grew as Christmas grew nearer, as well as his thankfulness for what he had. I especially liked how his mother encouraged him to think of others. 

A wonderful Christmastime read to share with the young people in your life about the joy of giving and family at Christmastime. 

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

A Beautiful Disguise by Roseanna M. White // Review

My Review: 

A fabulous new series full of mystery and intrigue among society's elite!

Lady Marigold Fairfax is not your average society darling, though her fashion makes her standout, no one would guess at the secrets she deals in to keep her family's legacy afloat. She is a clever heroine, and loyal to the ones she loves. I admired her ingenuity, as well as her close bond with her brother, Yates. Speaking of Yates, he is pretty much the perfect brother, supportive, talented, and daring in his own right. 

A daring adventure, I was pulled in from the very first, and even more as I got to know the clan of Imposters. I loved the compelling relationship building interwoven with espionage and secrets that kept me guessing. 

At a first glance the premise may seem implausible, but I found myself fully captivated in no time by the high society world of secrets, with unlikely heroes and heroines dealing in daring and secrets. Merritt is an admirable man of action, bound to integrity, who wants to think the best of his superior despite the growing pile of evidence that points in another direction. A clever and observant man, yet humble in a way that makes him even more admirable. 

The perfect introduction to a compelling cast of characters, in this exciting new series, full of faith, heart, and intrigue. I can't wait to see what is next for the Imposters!

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

Find out more about this book on the author's website: https://www.roseannamwhite.com/imposters/1-a-beautiful-disguise

Roseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award nominated author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary. You can learn more about her and her stories at www.roseannamwhite.com

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AMAZON
Audio | Ebook | Hardcover | Paperback

Barnes & Noble
Audio | Ebook | Hardcover | Paperback

Christian Book
Ebook | Paperback

For a full list of retailers visit Bethany House Publishers

Heart of the Frontier : Novella Collection by Brittany Larsen, Jen Geigle Johnson, Jennie Hansen, and Carolyn Twede Frank // Review

Lucie's Review: 

The Gamble by Brittany Larsen // British Aristocrat and younger son, Thomas Clayborne gets more than he bargained for when he decides to invest in a ranching venture in Wyoming. 

Thomas finds a friend and ally in Ella. I admired her quick thinking and grit, she didn't give up quickly. It was a solid read, set on the Wyoming plain. 

Her Frontier Bandit by Jen Geigle Johnson //  Rebecca and her father move out west for a fresh start, while there she comes face to face with a man she thought she'd never see again. 

A wonderful western read with plenty of action, in a twisting plot that kept me guessing. There was good character interaction, and I enjoyed this entertaining second chance romance. 

Sagebrush Sally by Jennie Hansen // Sally and her father come out west from England, to join their extended family in Idaho, but starting over is rough with a rash of livestock thieving. But a handsome cowboy may help make the transition a little easier. 

A sweet romance, Sally has a lot to learn about life in the west. I liked the interaction between her and Gabe, and there was plenty going on. A very enjoyable read. 

Celebration for Celia by Carolyn Twede Frank // Celia's family has moved to a new place and she is feeling homesick. She meets a new friend, Bruce who works to help her adjust to her new home. 

Bruce is such a nice guy, I really liked how he quickly befriends Celia and her family. He is a great listener and encourager. This was a great read, with a great romance. An engaging read with great characters. 

A lovely collection of romances set out west, filled with dashing cowboys and new beginnings out west. 

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

The Hill // Movie Review + More!

About the Movie: 

Growing up impoverished in small-town Texas, young Rickey Hill shows an extraordinary ability for hitting a baseball, despite being burdened by leg braces from a degenerative spinal disease. His stern, pastor father (DENNIS QUAID) discourages Rickey from playing baseball to protect him from injury, and to have him follow in his footsteps and become a preacher. As a young man, Rickey (COLIN FORD) becomes a baseball phenomenon. His desire to participate in a try-out for a legendary major league scout divides the family and threatens Rickey’s dream of playing professional baseball. Based on a true story, THE HILL is directed by Jeff Celentano and also stars JOELLE CARTER, country music singer and songwriter RANDY HOUSER, Golden Globe nominee BONNIE BEDELIA, and SCOTT GLENN.

Buy tickets today to see The Hill only in theaters starting August 25th! https://www.thehillmov.com/

My Review: An inspiring film based on the true story of "The Hardest Hitter in Baseball" Rickey Hill. 

An uplifting family film for fans of underdogs and those who never give up. Rickey Hill has more than his share of challenges, but he knows what his calling is despite his father's rules against playing, he can't help but be drawn to the field. 

I loved how supportive his older brother was of him and encouraging him not to give up. Rickey's father is strict, and a hard man at times, but I believe that his intentions were good, though it didn't always feel like it. Dennis Quaid does a great job of portraying this layered character, I liked that he was shown positively and respectfully despite his disagreements with his boys about baseball, which brought a humanity to him. I also really like Rickey's mother and grandma, who didn't always say much, but when they did you'd better be listening!

A well-done film, with a talented cast, and a powerful story of faith and perseverance to share with others. I was encouraged by Rickey's never-give-up spirit, as well as his respect for his father, and faith. Definitely worth seeing this inspiring family film. 

*The movie is not without its flaws, a few brief moments of strong language sways my recommendation more towards families with older children. 

#TheHillMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Many thanks to Briarcliff Entertainment, LLC for providing a sample of the product for  this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Giveaway: $10 Amazon giftcard 

(Note: This is limited to US winners only).

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Ordinary Angels // Trailer

About the film: Based on a remarkable true story, ORDINARY ANGELS centers on Sharon (Hilary Swank), a fierce but struggling hairdresser in small-town Kentucky who discovers a renewed sense of purpose when she meets Ed (Alan Ritchson), a widower working hard to make ends meet for his two daughters. With his youngest daughter waiting for a liver transplant, Sharon sets her mind to helping the family and will move mountains to do it. What unfolds is the inspiring tale of faith, everyday miracles, and ordinary angels. #OrdinaryAngelsMIN

I'm looking forward to seeing this new inspiring film with my family this upcoming holiday season!

He Should Have Told the Bees by Amanda Cox // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Two women unwind the secrets in their pasts as they work toward reconciling the future of the bee farm between them. 

A moving story, with a well developed backstory, and complex characters. I liked how the story brought together two very different women as they unravel their shared history in this emotional read. 

It was a slower start, my heart instantly went out to Beckett who is more introverted and after her father dies she doesn't go out barely at all, she is a natural with the bees and loves the farm. Callie has been through a lot, and I really admired her strong faith through it all. Fern is so cute, and I loved the sunshine that she brought to the story, her scenes always made me smile. 

Overall, a moving read filled with hope, faith, and restoration. A beautifully written story with realistically compelling flawed characters. Well done!

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

The Thing About Home by Rhonda McKnight // Review

My Review: 

A story of going home and new beginnings. 

Casey Black's carefully curated world comes tumbling down when her husband decides at their highly publicized vow renewal ends in him announcing him intentions for divorce instead. Casey retreats from the shiny world of social media and goes out in search of her roots, tracing her family history to a Southern farming community. 

An engaging read, told by Casey in the first person POV. I enjoyed getting to know her newfound family, especially her grandmother. A compelling story of new beginnings, secrets, and turning points. 

 I really enjoyed the historical parts of the story, from the journals of Casey's great-grandmother. It was cool seeing the how far their family has come over the years. 

While a compelling and intriguing read, this book just wasn't my cup of tea, as Casey wasn't the most relatable to me, but I liked seeing her transformation over the book. There were also some scenes like a platonically shared bed between the romantic leads that raised my eyebrows, as well as minor cuss words, and taking the Lord's name in vain. 

In the end, while this book wasn't a perfect fit for me, I still enjoyed many things about it and the author is a very gifted storyteller. There are definitely threads of faith woven throughout the story, though not expounded on explicitly. A well written read about finding yourself, and discovering your roots. 

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

Courting His Amish Wife by Emma Miller // Review

My Review: 

 Levi Miller offers to marry Eve Summy to save from being forced to marry her attacker. Now in a marriage of convenience can they find a way to forge a future together? 

A heartwarming romance, full of faith, family and new beginnings. Levi is a kind man, though even he got frustrated at times by their situation, I admired him for his integrity in honoring his promises even when it wasn't easy, and his own reputation was on the line. I loved seeing Eve come out of her shell while spending time with Levi's family, especially how Rosemary welcomed her with understanding and open arms. I also liked Levi's sisters and how they welcomed Eve as well. 

Overall, this was a highly enjoyable, heartwarming Amish romance, wonderfully crafted characters, and a strong message of faith, as well as great interaction and relationship building.  Definitely recommend!

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

Countdown by Lynette Eason // Review

Lucie's Review: 

On the run from a stalker, Raina Price has spent her life looking over her shoulder. A face on TV brings her out of hiding, in hopes of them from her stalker's clutches, but will trying to save a life cost Raina her own? 

A fast paced thriller that had me on edge of my seat, with compelling main characters. I admired Vincent's willingness to step up and help Raina, despite her hold ups, as well as his strong faith. 

A twisting plot that kept me guessing, with a lot going on throughout. I loved seeing characters from previous books in the series, though you could also read this book as a stand alone. 

Overall, a suspenseful read, with amazing characters, and relationship building. I loved the strong themes of faith, and compelling story. I didn't want it to end, as it built up to a satisfying ending that kept me guessing. 

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

The Cowboy Bargain by Tina Radcliffe // Just Read

Review: Second chance romance finds Olivia when she moves back to her hometown to be closer to her father. She finds herself facing her past, and possibly her future?

Sam Morgan is surprised to see his former fiancé again, let alone opening a restaurant on his property. Now their close proximity forces them to come to terms with their past, and I liked seeing how Olivia has matured over their time apart and chasing her dreams. Sam is a really great guy, and my heart went out to him being hurt by Olivia's choices. I loved seeing him passion for his craft, as well as his strong faith, and I loved seeing their chemistry as they worked together. 

Overall, an engaging romance, with great characters, and a compelling storyline. I loved the moments of humor, and really admired Sam as a hero. A wonderful heartwarming read. 

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