A Million Little Choices by Tamera Alexander // Review

My Review: 

Still on shaky footing after an affair rocked their marriage, Claire Powell finds herself following her husband to Atlanta for a job, leaving behind her own dream job, and getting saddled with a mansion she never wanted. Will this move push them to their breaking point? 

A gripping and gritty read, that pulled me in with it's flawed characters and raw emotions. Claire is a woman trying to do the best with what she's been given, trying to act in faith when a deep trust has been broken. I was drawn in by her unreliable narrative, her humanity, and I could feel her every heartbreak. I loved the new friends that she makes in Atlanta, especially Beatrice. 

A powerful read that had me in a strangle-hold reading until the early hours, and this isn't even my preferred genre! I loved how the author dealt with a difficult and painful topic realistically, with faith showing that restoration is a painful process, weaving in a rich history as well. Highly recommend this powerful read!

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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3OS3Jii   *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

The Rancher's Sanctuary by Linda Goodnight // Review

Lucie's Review: 

A heartwarming romance of hope and healing.

Nathan Garrison comes to town for a fresh start, and to lay claim to his inheritance, which will need more than a little elbow grease to fix up. He enlists the help of Monroe Matheson, a reclusive young woman who hides behind her scars. As they fix up his house, they get to know each other and untangle the secrets of his past. 

An engaging and compelling read with characters that draw you in and have you rooting for them from the very first chapter. I liked how Nathan saw past Monroe's physical scars, and she saw past his emotional ones, to help each other heal. There is a lot of good interaction and relationship building, as well as themes of faith. 

Overall, a well rounded and robust read, that surpassed my expectations and tugged at my heartstrings. Highly recommend!

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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/4bHBugd *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

Just Once by Karen Kingsbury // Review

My Review: 

 A heartfelt tale of  young, enduring love through the terrors of war. 

Hank and Irvel have loved each other since they were children, but their timing was never quite right for a relationship and Irvel ends up dating Hank's brother, Sam. Then the war comes, and Irvel is recruited by the OSS because of her remarkable math skills, and the brothers are drawn into the war as well. 

A compelling story of love and timing amidst an earth shattering war. Engaging tale with well developed characters, Irvel is a strong and committed young woman. I liked that she was willing to take on the job with the OSS despite the risks. 

Overall, it was a well written and well paced read with likable characters. I liked how Hank was always looking out for Irvel, and his courage in the face of danger. A quick read, satisfying and full of heart. 

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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3OXqX6H   *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

Miss Newbury's List by Megan Walker // Review

My Review: 

In preparation for her upcoming marriage to a duke she has only met a few times, Rosalind Newbury has made a list of ten things to do before her wedding. 

A delightful, light-hearted, clean romance, with a cast of fun characters and a sweet romance. Rosalind is a dutiful daughter, she wants to do what is set out for her by marrying into a title, but she also wants to experience more in life, so she enlists her best friend, Eliza, and Eliza's cousin Charles to help her accomplish her list. I liked how Charlie brings brings out the best in Ros, and helps her find ways to check off things on her list as their friendship grows. 

Overall, a quick sweet read, with great characters, and good development. A clean regency romance, with a sweet enjoyable plot. 

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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3T2on1U *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

The Rhythm of Fractured Grace by Amanda Wen // Just Read

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for The Rhythm of Fractured Grace by Amanda Wen hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: The Rhythm of Fractured Grace 

Series: Sedgwick County Chronicles #3 

Author: Amanda Wen 

Publisher: Kregel Publications 

Release Date: February 20, 2024 

Genre: Christian Split Time Romantic Women's Fiction

Is Siobhan too far gone to respond to the song of a God who's calling her back to him?

When a new customer brings a badly damaged violin into Siobhan Walsh's shop, it is exactly the sort of challenge she craves. The man who brought it in is not. He's too close to the painful past that left her heart and her faith in shambles. 

Matt Buchanan has had a rough start as the new worship pastor. A car accident on his way into town left him with a nearly totaled truck, and an heirloom violin in pieces. When he takes it to a repair shop, he's fascinated with the restoration process--and with the edgy, closed-off woman doing the work. As their friendship deepens and turns into more, they both discover secrets that force them to face past wounds. And the history of the violin reveals more about their current problems than they could have ever expected. 

On the nineteenth-century frontier, a gruesome tomahawk attack wiped out most of Deborah Caldwell's family. Her greatest solace after the tragedy is the music from her father's prized violin. Given her horrendous scars, she'd resigned herself to a spinster's life. But Levi Martinson's gentle love starts to chip away at her hardened heart, until devastating details about the attack are revealed, putting their love--and Deborah's shaky faith--to the ultimate test. 

Full of forgiveness and the message that no one is too damaged for God's healing touch, the final book in the split-time Sedgwick County Chronicles will thrill fans of Rachel Hauck, Lisa Wingate, and Kristy Cambron. 

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

My Review:

 

A tender dual timeline story of healing, restoration and love. 

A heart tugging story that digs deep, tenderly handling two unique and captivating stories of strong women a hundred years apart finding hope and healing through faith. An emotional read with likable characters, and an engaging plot. I liked how the author dealt with the difficult topic of abuse within the church in a real and honest way. I was equally captivated by both Siobhan and Deborah's stories, and enjoyed the strong themes of faith and restoration. 

Levi and Matt are both patient and understanding, and I liked how they gave the women in their lives space to process things, but also were there by their sides. I adored Levi's tender and steady growing love for Deborah.

Highly recommend this stirring tale of faith, forgiveness and healing!

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

More Books in Series

---

About the Author

Amanda Wen is a Selah Award–winning, Parable best-selling author of inspirational romance and split-time women’s fiction, including Roots of Wood and Stone and The Songs That Could Have Been, and a professional musician. Wen currently lives in Wichita, Kansas, with her husband and three children.

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

---

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of the book, a mug, chai mix, and a kitsugi heart necklace!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight February 21, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on February 28, 2024. 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 the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

---

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

Chasing the Horizon by Mary Connealy // Review

Lucie's Review: 

When her greedy father tried to put her in an asylum, Beth takes matters into her own hands rescuing her mother and joining an Oregon bound wagon train. 

I liked how Beth found true friends and allies to help her on her adventure, like Oscar, Kat, and Jake. This was a tougher book for me to read, because Beth's father was just so awful, and I just didn't want to read about him and his scheming. 

A great start to a new series, with a full cast of characters. Not as much humor as I am used to from this author, but still a enjoyable story, with strong characters and themes of faith. 

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

Buy it here: https://amzn.to/49FjDER   *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

Ordinary Angels // Review & Giveaway

Don’t miss this powerful film, based on a true story! You’ll leave feeling inspired to be an angel to people in your own community!

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.  

 Buy tickets today to see Ordinary Angels in theaters starting February 23rd! https://tickets.ordinaryangels.movie/

Help us make the impossible possible. Every $1 you donate eliminates $100 in medical debt. Together with RIP Medical Debt, we aim to erase $10,000,000 in medical  debt relief. The gift of debt relief is life-changing—and every dollar makes a difference. #OrdinaryAngelsMovie #KingdomStoryCompany ordinaryangels.movie/rip

My Review:

Based on the incredible true story of a woman who finds hope again by throwing herself into helping a family in need.

A well done and inspiring film, with a talented cast. I was inspired by Sharon's determination, and unwillingness to take no for an answer, when most people would have never embarked on such a quest in the first place. I loved the message of hope, and how God can use imperfect people as His instruments to do amazing things. It was also so cool to see how the community all came together for this family.

The movie did a great job of showing the wide range of emotions they were all going through, as well as how it brought them together, and made them see things differently.

Overall, an absolute must-see film. Excellent storytelling, inspiring, uplifting, all based on an amazing true story!

#OrdinaryAngelsMIN #OrdinaryAngelsMovie @KingdomStoryCompany @Lionsgate

Many thanks to Kingdom Faith Marketing Services, 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

Dangerous Texas Hideout by Virginia Vaughn // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Penny Jackson left everything behind after her young daughter becomes the sole witness to a bank robbery, after the FBI fails to keep them safe she takes matters into her own hands, fleeing to a small town. But even that doesn't seem to be enough, can they stay safe with the help of police chief Caleb Harmon?

When Caleb sees Penny and Missy in need of protection, he jumps in to help them find a solution. He admires Penny for her mothering, and relationship with her daughter. I liked how Caleb has a solid group of friends, as well as a solid faith in God. 

An action packed read with great characters, strong faith, and a well paced plot. Missy is a darling child, and I loved how being in a secure environment made her feel safe again. An engaging read, hard to put down with great characters!

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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3T1TNFB   *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

If the Boot Fits by Karen Witemeyer // Review

Review:

A delightfully enchanting Texas fairy-tale romance, filled with humor, faith, family, and romance. 

A fun, original twist on a classic romance inspiration, with a full cast of characters, great interaction, growth, and a solidly paced plot. Such a great read that pulled me in quick and kept a smile on my face, I loved how Sam keeps the mystery man's secret, while silently searching for him. Asher is a strong, family oriented man, and he can't pass up a chance to do good. Which leads his and Samantha's paths to cross often. 

A charming read, that combines all of my favorite things in this terrific western Cinderella, faith filled romance. I loved the themes of family, forgiveness, and repairing relationships. Clint is a spirited younger sibling to be sure, and I loved his hilarious turns of phrase!

A fantastic feel-good western romance that you won't want to put down!

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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3UFghNT

 *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

Under Cover of Mercy by Rebecca Connolly // Review

My Review: 

Based on the true story of Edith Cavell, and the Red Cross nurses that served with her in Brussels, Belgium, during the German occupation of WWI. 

An inspiring story of courage and faith in the face of war, though I found it hard at times to separate Edith and Lizzie's narratives as they tended to be similar, and it wasn't uncommon for me to mid chapter realize I was reading about the other one. It was cool to learn about the brave women who fought to give the soldiers a chance at survival, working together under the nose of the Germans. 

Overall, a well done historical read, though a little slow at times, it was great to learn about true life heroes who gave all for others. 

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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3SUb43p   *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

Fatal Witness by Patricia Bradley // Review

Lucie's Review: 

A familiar face in a magazine brings up a case not quite cold.

Mae never gave up looking for her granddaughter, and when she sees a face in a pottery magazine she knows that she has to know the truth. She sends her neighbor and K-9 officer, Mark Lassiter to investigate, but someone else has also seen the magazine feature and now they are in a race against time to save Dani from the clutches of the killer that murdered her parents. 

A fast paced read with an intricate plot, great characters and great canine companions. I liked how Mark was there for Dani, and how he lived his faith.

It was good seeing Dani have friends that she could count on, as well as slowly recover the missing pieces of her life. Though I wished that it had been more clear at the end of the book where she was spiritually. 

 An action packed read that kept me guessing, there was a lot going on, and plenty to keep me on my toes. Also wonderful to see familiar characters again. A highly enjoyable suspense!

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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/48bYocz *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

County Rescue // Review and Giveaway

Check out this new family-friendly series on Great American Pure Flix starting 2/23!

EMTs are courageous, everyday heroes, but it’s challenging  to qualify for this critical job. This is the story of an EMT unit who save lives while  navigating their own life, love, and faith.

Watch County Rescue on Great American Pure Flix starting 2/23 and Great American Family starting 2/26!

You can find Great American Family on this  channel finder or by texting RESCUE to  877-999-122

 My Review: 

A brand new original faith-based drama centered around a team of EMTs, everyday heroes saving lives and dealing with the human condition. 

I liked how the show focuses on a group of new recruits learning the ropes and proving themselves as capable rescuers, facing the challenges of the unknown with courage and faith. A great start to a new series, I loved how we get to know more about the characters over the course of the show, seeing their struggles and backgrounds. I admired Dani for staying true to her calling, and her faith in the face of criticism and doubt. 

A well done show, with a firm foundation in faith, and a whole cast of characters with different dynamics and backgrounds. I'm excited to see where this series leads!

#CountyRescueMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Many thanks to Great American Pure Flix for providing a sample of the product for this  review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Great American Pure Flix is the streaming service with a 7-day free trial.

Giveaway: 3-month subscription to Great American Pure Flix (Note: This is limited to US winners only, and only to those who have NOT won a sub scription in the last 6 months).

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Cowboy's Secret Past by Tina Radcliffe // Review

Lucie's Review: 

A past shadowed in secrets, and a nurse looking for answers. Trevor and Hope find themselves at odds over her digging, but could their begrudging friendship be the foundation for something more? 

Engaging read with a full cast of likable characters adding to the depth and dynamics of the story. I loved that Cole and Trevor became friends, and how we get to see all of the brothers working together, and teasing Trevor. A well balanced, read with great interaction, relationship building, faith, and romance. 

Overall, a wholly enjoyable read with solid faith, great humor and character growth. Hard to put down, and definitely worth picking up!

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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3w73zgu *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

The Action Bible: Faith in Action Edition // Review and Giveaway

The Faith in Action Edition is about helping kids Engage in God’s Word, Grow in God’s Word, and Live God’s Word. 

Major themes of the Bible are highlighted throughout with icons that help kids personalize their faith and live God’s Word. 

Themes of the Bible are based on David C Cook’s tested Bible study curriculum for kids and include: Courage, Faith, Hope, Love, Service, Trust, and Wisdom. 

Kids and parents can access digital resources by scanning QR codes throughout the Bible. Spiritual Growth Resources include over 200 devotionals, prayers, character stories, teaching videos, timelines, maps, and Bible facts.

Order your copy today!

https://amzn.to/49jsyeU

https://www.theactionbible.com/

My Review:

A high quality project that kids will keep coming back to time after time!

A Bible storybook in comic book form, it does a great job of appropriately communicating major themes and skirting some of the more adult things that you don't quite want to be graphically illustrated for youngsters. Adam and Eve are artfully covered in shadow and plant life--in case you were wondering!

The book is divided thematically into 7 categories, making it easy to flip between different stories. Not only are there hundreds of devotions hidden with QR codes amongst the artwork, but also fun interactive games that go with the stories.

A wonderful gift for the child in your life, with enticing illustrations that will have even your more hesitant readers diving into learning more about God's word. A fun supplement to Scripture reading, and a fun resource to share!

 #FaithInActionBibleMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Many thanks to David C Cook for providing a sample of the product for this review.  Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.  

Buy it here: https://amzn.to/49jsyeU   *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

 

Giveaway: 1 copy of The Action Bible: Faith in Action Edition 

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

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Finally His Bride by Jody Hedlund // Review

My Review: 

Willow Rhodes sets sail from England with the hopes of her family for a better life, along with her childhood friend Caleb Edwards. 

Willow and Caleb quickly find that starting out in the new world won't be easy in this sweet friends-to-lovers romance. Willow struggles with self-doubt, and feelings of unworthiness, I liked how she made friends with others on the ship, and how she was always looking out for Caleb. Willow and Caleb have known each other for years, and they unknowingly make each other better. I liked their solid, deep-rooted connection. 

Engaging with likable characters, this story made for an excellent start to the continuation of this enjoyable series. Romantic, with themes of faith and commitment. 

Overall, a fun read the combines two favorite tropes, friends-to-lovers and marriage-of-convenience!

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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3HOVxLP   *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

Happily Ever After on Huckleberry Hill by Jennifer Beckstrand // Review

My Review: 

A sweet Amish rom-com full of faith, humor, and romance!

An engaging novel, with a full cast of characters. Omi is a likable protagonist, I like how she is always thinking of others, even when they don't think about her. I liked that Beau was willing to stand up for what he wanted, and how he was supportive of Omi. Mammi and Dawdi were super helpful, and I laughed at Mammi's antics and strong belief in the power of raisins. 

A quick read, with great interaction, faith, and growth. Though I didn't care much at all for Ruth, who crossed the line with her manipulative antics more than once. 

Overall, an enjoyable read with great characters, great themes of love, family, and forgiveness. Another delightful addition to the Huckleberry Hill series!

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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/42tE4lB *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

Shadows of Swanford Abbey by Julie Klassen // Review

My Review: 

Rebecca Lane comes to Swanford Abbey as a favor to her brother, but a simple mission turns deadly leaving Rebecca with a suspect alibi. Can she prove her innocence without endangering the ones she loves? 

A riveting character rich read, written with an Austen-esque style, with hints of gothic mystery as well. An immersive experience, and a great show rather than tell style that lets you see things and make your own guesses as the story progresses. A slower paced read that lets you soak in the characters and setting to appreciate them fully. 

I admired Frederick for taking charge and always trusting Rebecca, even when things were looking bad for her. 

Overall, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read, with excellent character development and an intricate plot, as well as strong themes of faith. Great for fans of regency era romance!

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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3Ov2lSz *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases

One Wrong Move by Dani Pettrey // Review

Lucie's Review: 

Intriguing and suspenseful, I was quickly drawn into this engaging adventure that balances romance and relationships with an action-packed plot. 

I liked how Christian and Andi both were able to use negative things in their pasts for good, getting to know each other and bonding over faith. I liked their interaction, banter, and seeing their friendship grow. It was also great seeing the whole team work together, and get to know their friends through the sub-plots. 

All around this was an enjoyable read, great character development, faith, interaction, a mystery that kept me guessing, and with a full cast of characters that I can't wait to revisit!

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

 Buy it here: https://amzn.to/3Uk5ys2   *As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases