Waiting for Christmas by Lynn Austin // Review

My Review: 

A heartwarming advent tale of hope, love, joy, and peace, that follows a newlywed couple in the month leading up to their first Christmas together, as they blend their lives, and help new friends in need. 

An enjoyable Christmastime read that I wanted to savor, as I read this heartwarming novella that follows Adelaide and Howard Forsythe, as they adjust to a life together. Addy has a big heart, and though she is used to a different lifestyle, she is mindful of how she impacts those around her. I loved her big heart, and thoughtfulness towards others, as well as encouragement. Howard is a wonderful man, with a noble heart, he wants to do everything he can to give Addy the life he believes she deserves. I liked how he was great with Jack and Polly, and always has Addy's best interests at heart. 

I loved the strong core of faith, and wonderful characters. Mrs. Gleason is a favorite, as well as the children Jack, Polly, and Susannah. Well written, with a heartwarming cozy feel to it that I savored and never wanted to end. An excellent Christmas novellas, set in the Gilded Age, about the true hope of Christmas!

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

Across the Star-Kissed Sea by Arlem Hawks // Just Read

Review: 

A wonderful companion novel to Georgana's Secret, it also stands well on its own. 

May Byam is a young lady with a tainted family history, she takes a job at sea as a lady's companion to the captain's wife. At sea she forges friendships, finds adventure, and perhaps even love in unexpected places. 

May and Elias get off on the wrong foot, but as they spend more time together they begin to see other sides of each other, as they both work towards a new future in light of their pasts. A story that comes alive with a rich backstory and well developed characters, in this enjoyable clean historical novel set at sea. 

Overall, a well written romance, with great characters, good interaction and unlikely romance. An enjoyable read, great as a stand alone or as a companion novel to Georgana's Secret!

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

An Arrangement with the Heiress by Lisa M. Prysock // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

Book: An Arrangement with the Heiress

Author: Lisa M. Prysock

Genre: Christian Historical Romance

Release date: September 24, 2024

She’s a wealthy debutante with the finest ancestry in Kentucky horseracing circles…

He’s a member of New York’s Gilded Age elite, yet on the brink of financial ruin…

Neither of them want an arranged marriage…or do they?

Veronica Lyndon has a plan for her life, and it doesn’t include being married off to a perfect stranger. After all, she is descended from generations of Kentucky horseracing royalty. She has no need for a marriage arranged solely to secure her place among the elite of Manhattan’s Gilded Age society. But that’s exactly what her parents expect of her. Determined to defy the arrangement, Veronica formulates a plan to drive her intended away. But when Edward arrives in anticipation of the match, she doesn’t expect to find him so attractive, nor can she deny the feelings he stirs in her heart, complicating her plans. Has true love galloped into her life by conventional means, or are her estimations mistaken?

Edward Beckett realizes the futility of avoiding the arranged marriage to Miss Lyndon. His family is already on the brink of financial ruin and Veronica’s dowry may be their best opportunity to recover. But he didn’t expect to fall for the Kentucky debutante so easily. He finds himself attracted to her natural beauty and vivacious spirit, free from the conventions of other ladies in his customary circles. In fact, he’s downright smitten after meeting Veronica. Unfortunately, Edward’s sisters don’t feel the same, and if their attempts to sabotage the relationship are successful, his whirlwind courtship to Veronica may be over before it’s really begun.

Saddle up for a clean romp filled with sweet romance, inspiration, and plenty of adventure along this course of obstacles and a glide through the splendor and opulence of the Gilded Age.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

An adventure filled rom-com, set in the Gilded Age, with a fun plot, and endearing characters. 

Veronica Lyndon has been happy to live her life, riding the horses on her father's race horse farm, and is in no hurry to look for a husband. But when her father takes matters into his own hands, arranging a match with the son of ones of his friends, the aftermath is surprising.

An enjoyable read, with great characters, and a fun plot. I liked the interaction between the characters, relationship building, and friendship. There is a lot going on, and I liked the setting from Kentucky Countryside, to New York high society. Edward and Veronica concoct a plan to outwit their parents, and I loved the situational comedy, as well as wit. 

Overall, a wonderful read, great plot, characters, in this well written historical romance, with a foundation of Christian values and faith. Thoroughly enjoyable, highly recommend!

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

About the Author

Lisa M. Prysock is a USA Today Bestselling Author who writes both Christian Historical Romance and Contemporary Christian Romance books—”Romance with a Dash of Food, Fashion, Faith, & Fun.” She writes both traditionally and indie published novels.

Kentucky inspires her writing and is home. Happily married to her husband of more than 24 years, she homeschooled two of their five children, now grown. When she isn’t writing, she likes to cross stitch, crochet, sew, scrapbook, read, swim, dance, take walks, travel, explore historical homes, garden, cook for her family, learn to play the piano and violin, and read great books.

 

More from Lisa

Q & A with Lisa M. Prysock…Writing Gilded Age Kentucky Romance!

1. What inspired you to write An Arrangement with the Heiress?
2. Residing here in beautiful Kentucky near many of the world’s finest horse farms, rolling hills, and rich culture, for years, I have longed to grasp hold of the inspiration around me to pen a historical story that had been mulling around in my mind.

Hence, I reached out to a dear author friend, Chautona Havig, to brainstorm and build upon what was in my head and heart thus far. She ran a hypothetical scenario by me with some conflict arising because of hypocrisy about the horseracing world…something that could stem from some possible characters. This fit perfectly with some of my research about the Gilded Age era in the horseracing world. My immediate reaction: Ooo, yes girl, yes! Imagine squealing and much chatter at this point. We writers can get a bit on the gabby side if left to ourselves. And because, well, my hero had two sisters; ideal candidates to become antagonists. Chautona and I were chuckling and laughing…and I was off and running like a horse out of the gate.

1. Were there any challenges you faced about including some history from horseracing in your writing process?
2. Yes! For starters, how to do it all justice? How to get the feel of it onto paper without writing it wrong? There was so much that had been written about the Kentucky Derby, Keeneland, and horseracing history in general. My deep dive into the Kentucky Derby alone could have held me captive for many months in research.

Knee deep in taking notes, I landed on a thesis paper from the 1940s that was steeped with everything that had put the Kentucky Derby and horseracing in Kentucky on the map. By the time I finished wading through the thesis and all of my other research, I had gobs of notes and a goldmine of historical tidbits to bring my story to life with some degree of accuracy. My story also takes readers to Manhattan and South Carolina. Imagine me turning my laptop sideways to study ancient theater seating charts (okay, well maybe not ancient, but some theaters from the 1900s no longer exist…) and maps for street names from Gilded Age Lexington and Manhattan, and beaches on the Carolinian coastline. All my story needed now was my imagination and a tour of a local horse farm.

 

1. Tell us about your tour of a local horse farm.
2. Feeling a little shaky about my knowledge of horses, on an ultra-super-hot day in July of 2023, my husband—who behaved like a trooper in agreeing to escort me toward the end of getting my horse facts straight—and I, set out to drive to Lexington from our rural suburban home on the edge of Louisville.

We’d decided to make a day of it. We had a wonderful time and really enjoyed touring Gainsborough Farm. It was sweltering hot, but by the time the tour ended, despite melting from the heat before, during, and after, I felt as though I understood more about horse farming better than before the tour.

I had some knowledge of horses from growing up on a farm in Minnesota where my dad boarded horses for locals from time to time, but that had been a long time ago. I needed to brush up on the facts and try to imagine it as if I were living in the early 1900s. Unfortunately, there aren’t too many time machines around to satisfy my desire for temporary transportation to and from a working horseracing farm in 1908. My research, memories, books I’ve read, movies I’ve watched, and my own imagination would have to fill in the rest. It’s all part of being a fictional historical writer, right?

Hubby and me at Gainsborough Farm in 2023…it was so hot that day. My makeup was melting!

Blog Stops

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 15

Stories By Gina, October 16 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 16

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 17

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 18

Texas Book-aholic, October 19

Devoted To Hope, October 19

Simple Harvest Reads, October 20 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, October 21

For Him and My Family, October 22

lakesidelivingsite, October 23

Holly’s Book Corner, October 24

Pause for Tales, October 25

Karen Baney Reviews, October 26

Hannahbandanarama, October 26

Cover Lover Book Review, October 27

Labor Not in Vain, October 28

Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, October 28

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Lisa is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon card!!

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

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Lost on a Mountain in Maine // Movie Review and Giveaway

Watch this moving family film in theaters starting November 1st! 

The inspiring true story of 12-year-old Donn Fendler who, separated from his family by a fast-moving storm, must fight to stay alive while lost for nine-days in the remote wilderness of northern Maine. Donn’s disappearance captures national headlines and sparks a massive search effort attracting hundreds of volunteers, including his own father who fears he may never see his son again.

 

Buy tickets today to see Lost on a Mountain in Maine in theaters starting November 1st!

Lost on a Mountain in Maine

My Review:

A moving adventure-filled, coming of age story for the family, based on a true story. 

 Donn Fendler is a 12 year old boy, growing up in the tail end of the Great Depression. His father takes him and his brothers for a mountain hike, when and incoming storm separates him from his family and he finds himself fighting for survival alone for 9 days. 

A well done film that explores the relationship between fathers and sons, as Donn faces the mountain alone, and a search team is summoned to bring him home. Donn is realistically portrayed, as a boy on the brink of manhood, far from the model child fighting with his brother, and father frequently.  He faces challenges he'd never had before. I liked how they had real-life Donn and his family telling the story from the future, confirming facts and elaborating on the details, though at times they used some adult language, so keep that in mind if letting younger children see this films. 

Action packed, survival adventure, with strong themes of family, growing up, and determination. I liked how his family didn't give up on him, continuing to fight for his safe return. A wonderful film to share with your family! 

 #LostOnAMountainInMaineMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork 

 Many thanks to WIT PR 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

Fiancé Finale by Angela Ruth Strong // JustRead Tour

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Fiancé Finale by Angela Ruth Strong hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Fiancé Finale 

Series: Love Off Script #3 

Author: Angela Ruth Strong 

Publisher: Kregel Publications 

Release Date: October 22, 2024 

Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance 

Charlie Newberg is sure about one thing: Nicole Lemaire is the woman God wants him to marry. There's a slight problem, though—he's already left her once. The day before their wedding. To make a documentary. 

But he's got a plan. The marketing firm she works for is the ideal choice for promoting his new film. Collaborating will give him the perfect chance to propose again, so he conspires with her boss to make sure she runs the campaign for the same kind of documentary Charlie left her—basically at the altar—for. 

Despite Nicole's resistance, the two work well together. But Charlie's going to need more than teamwork to convince the jilted bride to give him a second chance. In fact, he might need to fall in love in a way he's never really understood.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Kregel Publications | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

My Review: 

A heartfelt second chance rom-com, with a strong core of faith. 

Charlie Newberg comes waltzing back into Nicole's life after skipping their wedding for a chance to film a documentary years ago, and he is determined to win her back. Her job rides on being able to work alongside her ex-fiancé, in this faith filled second chance romance, with a healthy helping of humor. 

Nicole is struggling to forgive after how Charlie left her, and Charlie can be obtuse about why she won't give him another chance. A great read as a standalone, or as a fantastic addition to an amazing series. I loved seeing familiar faces from the previous books, seeing their dynamics and who's side they took in the aftermath of a relationship. 

A fun, fast paced read, gripping with great wit, banter, and complex characters. A poignant read, in the form of a rom com, I loved how the faith dug deep and was central to the plot. I loved the depth of the topics covered in this Christian romantic comedy that hits all the right notes!

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

More Books from this Series: 

---

About the Author

Angela Ruth Strong is the founder of IdaHope Christian Writers. Her books have earned TOP PICK in Romantic Times, been a finalist for the Christy, won the Cascade Award, and become Amazon best sellers. Her book Finding Love in Big Sky, Montana released as a movie in 2022. Strong lives in Meridian, Idaho, with her husband.

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

---

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a signed copy of Fiancé Finale and 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 began at midnight October 23, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on October 30, 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!

Meddling with Mistletoe by Liz Johnson // Review

My Review: 

Whitney is on a mission to pay for culinary school, planning to bake pies and sell them for the holidays, but a broken oven puts her in a bind and she ends up watching the Sloan children and cooking for the Red Door Inn in exchange for use of their kitchen. 

Whitney isn't the only one on a mission, Aretha Franklin Sloan has a plan to cheer up her nephew by matching him up with a successful business woman, and enlists Whitney to help her make it happen. 

A feel good rom-com with endearing characters, adorable children, strong faith, and a matchmaking gone wrong. Whitney is a relatable heroine, and I admired her for continuing to push forward despite all the set backs. Daniel has poured himself into his work for the last few years, not willing to give love another chance. I liked how Julia Mae kept asking him to join them in their activities. 

Overall, from beginning to end this was a delightful read, with a feel-good, cozy, rom-com feel, and a strong core of faith. I enjoyed the full cast of characters, and grumpy/sunshine, matchmaking tropes. The perfect pick-me-up for the Christmas season!

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

Before We Were Us by Denise Hunter // Review

My Review: 

Everything is coming into place for Jonah and Lauren, until a traumatic fall takes Lauren's memory, and she can't remember their relationship at all. 

A heartwarming romance, in a cozy small town setting, that deals with the different paths of life, and how you never forget true love. Jonah is a good man and does his best to support Lauren throughout, no matter what she chooses, giving her space and time as well as being ready in the wings when she needs him. Lauren struggles choosing between her dreams, and new one that is slowly unfolding. I liked how Lauren and Jonah have good friends to lean on, and how they trust God to see them through. 

Overall, this was a heart bending, and heartwarming read, with endearing characters in a sweet small town!

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

A Token of Love by Carrie Turansky // Celebrate Lit

About the Book

 

Book: A Token of Love

Author: Carrie Turansky

Genre: Fiction, Historical Romance

Release date: September 3, 2024

Separated by centuries, the lives of two women intertwine through their shared pursuit of love, truth, and justice.

In 1885 London, Lillian Freemont embarks on a treacherous journey to reunite with her long-lost niece, Alice, who was abandoned at the Foundling Hospital eight years ago. Fueled by her sister’s plea and armed with the gold token that identifies her niece, Lillian teams up with investigative reporter Matthew McGivern to expose the grim reality of the shadowed streets of London. As Lillian and Matthew unravel the mystery of Alice’s disappearance, their partnership blossoms into one of shared purpose and undeniable attraction.

In present-day London, Janelle Spencer finds herself unexpectedly running the Foundling Museum. When filmmaker Jonas Conrad arrives to document the museum’s history, their collaboration takes a surprising turn as they uncover articles from the past that shed light on a haunting connection to the present. As Janelle becomes caught between exposing the truth and protecting the museum’s reputation, she must decide if she can risk everything for what she believes.

 

Click here to get your copy!

  Review: 

Two women centuries apart search for truth, and find love while looking for answers to questions raised by the Foundling Hospital. 

Janelle Spencer lives in the present day, running the Foundling Museum. While working with a filmmaker Jonas Conrad, she discovers a shocking secret from the past that threatens her future. While in 1885, Lillian Freemont is determined to be reunited with her niece, and the winding trail leads to a sobering conclusion, as she works with investigative reporter Matthew McGivern to bring the girl home. 

A compelling dual-timeline story, with two equally engaging parallel stories about women fighting for truth, and living out their faith. I appreciated the strong timeless themes of faith, forgiveness, justice woven throughout. 

A well written novel, with excellent characters, great developing relationships, compelling and compassionate. I was drawn in equally to Janelle and Lillian's stories, in this riveting novel, full of faith, gripping storyline, and strong protagonists. Highly recommend!

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

About the Author

Carrie Turansky is the award-winning author of twenty-one inspirational novels and novellas and a winner of the Carol Award, the International Digital Award, and the HOLT Medallion. She loves traveling to England to research her Edwardian novels, including No Journey Too Far, No Ocean Too Wide, Across the Blue, and the Edwardian Brides series. Her novels have been translated into several languages and have received starred reviews from Christianbook.com and Library Journal.

 

 

More from Carrie

Come with me to London!

My latest novel, A Token of Love, is a dual-time story set in London during the late Victorian Era and present day. That prompted my husband and I to take a trip to London earlier this year. We were especially delighted to visit the Foundling Museum which tells the story of the Foundling Hospital, the first children’s charity home in England. The Foundling Hospital and Foundling Museum tie the historical and contemporary plots together in A Token of Love.

Thousands of children were taken in by the Foundling Hospital when their mothers could no longer care for them. Some of the mothers left small items such as coins, thimbles, and pieces of jewelry with their infants as identifiers in the hope that if their situation changed, they might be able to return and reclaim their child. Those items were called tokens, and we saw several of them on display at the Foundling Museum.

Each token is unique and represents a mother’s love and desire to be reunited with her child. It was very moving to view them on display and think of all the heartache and hope behind each token.

More than two years ago, I saw an image of the tokens on Pinterest. That sparked my curiosity, and I followed the research trail to learn more about them. That led to the Foundling Museum’s website, which offers a treasure trove of information and personal stories about the mothers and children connected by those tokens. What I discovered helped me develop the characters and plot for A Token of Love. The story highlights one mother who gave her daughter into their care, then eight years later tries to reclaim her. But her daughter is missing, and that sets off a series of events that stirs all of London. Family drama, romance, inspiration, and a touch of mystery will make the story meaningful for readers.

If you like stories based on true events in history that will touch your heart and lift your spirit, then I think you will enjoy reading A Token of Love!

If you’d like to see more photos from my research trip to London and the Foundling Museum, I hope you’ll visit my website photo page!

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 7

Maureen’s Musings, October 7

Books You Can Feel Good About, October 8

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 8

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 9

Connie’s History Classroom, October 9

Texas Book-aholic, October 10

Devoted To Hope, October 10

Simple Harvest Reads, October 11 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Live.Love.Read., October 11

Stories By Gina, October 12 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, October 12

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, October 13

lakesidelivingsite, October 13

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, October 14

Cover Lover Book Review, October 14

Lighthouse Academy Blog, October 15 (Guest Review from Marilyn)

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 16

Blossoms and Blessings, October 17

Holly’s Book Corner, October 17

Inspired by Fiction, October 18

Pause for Tales, October 18

Labor Not in Vain, October 19

To Everything There is A Season, October 20

Romances of the Cross, October 20

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Carrie is giving away the grand prize of a $15 Amazon gift card and a paperback copy of A Token of Love!!

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

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/00adcf5461/

Target Acquired by Lynette Eason // Review

Lucie's Review:

Kenzie King has fought her way into a prime spot  on a SWAT team, as a tactical medical, and everyday proving time and again that she has earned her spot. 

A high stakes game of cat and mouse, as the SWAT team is continually drawn out and hunted, by a mysterious antagonist who manages to stay just out of their reach. Cole has been interested in Kenzie for awhile, but he's also never had trouble finding a date. But as their team is in danger, they find themselves closer together as the stakes raise and the dangerous plot unfolds. 

An action packed read, with secrets from the present and past, strong protagonists with a slowly building romance. A highly entertaining read, with an edge of your seat plot, strong faith, plenty of suspense and romance!

An excellent addition to a fantastic series, but also great as a standalone. Great character development and interaction, I loved seeing familiar faces from the previous book as well. Great for fans of action and suspense!

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

The Lost Melody by Joanna Davidson Politano // Review

My Review:

Vivienne's search for answers quickly becomes a nightmare as she discovers the terrible secrets that threaten to hold her captive. 

A haunting, emotional suspense, that will have you on the edge of your seat and questioning everything. A well written read with, complex characters and multiple twists along the way. I liked how despite the impossible situation, Vivienne held tight to her faith, and did her best to shine a light into a dark place. 

A emotional roller coaster, filled with secrets and suspense. A wonderful companion novel to A Midnight Dance, but also a stunning stand alone. 

Overall, a brilliant and evocative novel that will keep you guessing until the very end. Definitely worth checking out!

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

Average Joe // Movie Review and Giveaway

Be inspired by the true story of Coach Joe Kennedy and his fight for freedom in the new movie, Average Joe, in theaters October 11! 

 High school football coach Joe Kennedy had no other choice but to fight. A childhood in foster care followed by 20 years in the Marine Corps was nothing compared to his biggest battle: his commitment to stand for God publicly by taking a knee in prayer after each game. When he was fired, Joe and his wife Denise knew this battle for religious freedom, freedom of speech, and the rights of all Americans was one they would have to fight—no matter the cost. From the director and producers of God’s Not Dead and the producers of The Blind comes AVERAGE JOE, in theaters beginning October 11. 

 Buy your tickets today!

My Review: 

An inspiring story for the whole family!

I loved the conversational tone of the film, as Joe and his wife tell their story from the beginning, through their tumultuous upbringings, going down separate paths and eventually finding each other again. Joe had a tough time trusting God, because the challenges he faced growing up and in his adult life, but when he gave his life to Christ, he gave everything. 

This is a well-done film, feel-good and inspiring, but it doesn't shy away from the harder parts of Joe's life and marriage, and how the events portrayed in the film took a toll on that, but also strengthened him and inspired others. It isn't easy to go against the grain and stand up alone for what you believe in face of career damaging implications, but I admired him for standing firm and keeping his promise to praise God win or lose. 

Overall, an enjoyable film, with a little bit of love story, sports underdog story, faith, and legal battle.  This movie has it all! A great movie for the whole family, with humor, and themes of faith and integrity. I loved the moments of breaking the fourth wall storytelling, as well as his life story, which is ordinary, but also incredible, culminating towards the title of the film, Average Joe. Highly recommend this entertaining Christian film, that has something for everyone!

 #AverageJoeMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork 

Many thanks to Average Joe for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. 

 Buy tickets today to see Average Joe in theaters starting October 11th! 

Average Joe - Fathom Events

 Giveaway: $10 Amazon gift card (Note: This is limited to US winners only). 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Brave: The Story of Ahinoam by Mesu Andrews // Review

My Review:

A compelling and intriguing look at David's life while on the run from Saul, and that of the first wife he took in Hebron. 

A compelling and intriguing look at a time in David's life not often focused on in fiction, I liked how the author imagined that time on the run from Saul, and the possible reasoning behind him taking multiple wives, as well as the cultural landscape. Ahinoam is strong and stubborn, raised by a father abandoned by his wife, she learned to wield the weapons of her father's trade. She is a young woman finding her path, she struggles with doubts and questions of worthiness in the face of her marriage to David, and his taking on another wife. The story is told from broth David and Ahinoam's point of views, has good interactions, and character development.

The author did a great job navigating the difficult subject of David's multiple marriages, and while it was a little odd in my contemporary frame of mind of a Christian marriage, it did happen and he did have multiple wives, and there were consequences later on. 

I liked seeing David as a young man fighting for his throne and becoming a revered leader among his men and his people. I also enjoyed seeing his deep friendship with Jonathan, and deep desire to please God.

Overall, an excellent read full of intensity, faith, suspense, as well as parts that challenged me. The author did an amazing job, pulling from the text to create a compelling portrayal of Ahinoam and David during that time. A compelling read from beginning to end!

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

The Tapestry of Grace by Kim Vogel Sawyer // Review

My Review: 

A heartwarming, feel-good story about community, faith, and family. 

The ladies of Alexandertol, Kansas, decide to form a benevolence group, to help those in need in their communities. Widowed schoolteacher Augusta Dyck, sees the need of Konrad Rempel, an independent widower with two energetic twin boys. While Martina Krahn the group's founder, hopes to find meaning and a child to fill the hole in her unhappy home through the group's work. 

This heartwarming and faith filled story is told from the multiple perspectives of Konrad, Augusta, and Martina. Augusta has a big heart for others, and is raising a young daughter of her own, but is always looking for ways to lift others up. Everyone adores Konrad's boys, who are full of energy, but are eager to please. Konrad does the best  he can for his sons, and that is what drives him throughout. 

My heart went out to Martina, at first it is easy to dislike her, until you see what lies beyond her somewhat abrasive attitude, is actually a lot of heartbreak and hurt. 

Overall, a highly enjoyable story with likable characters, adorable children, plenty of heart, and a solid foundation of faith, set in a small prairie community. 

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

White Bird // Movie Review and Giveaway

Be Brave. Choose Kind. You forget many things in life. But you never forget kindness. WHITE BIRD is a deeply moving coming of-age story and testament to the courage it takes to extend kindness and love during the harshest of times.

 From the world of Wonder, which sparked a movement to "choose kind," comes the inspirational next chapter: WHITE BIRD. Struggling to fit in at his new school after being expelled for his treatment of Auggie Pullman, Julian (Bryce Gheisar) is visited by his grandmother (Helen Mirren) and is transformed by the compassionate and heroic story of her attempts to escape Nazi-occupied France during WWII. From the director of Finding Neverland, WHITE BIRD reminds us to be brave and choose kind. 

 Buy your tickets now to WHITE BIRD, in theaters October 4! 

https://tickets.whitebird.movie/

My Review: 

A compelling coming of age story that resonates with the whole family. 

Captivating, heartwarming, and heartbreaking all at the same time, this is is a well done and thought provoking film that is the inspirational sequel to Wonder the film based on the novel by R.J. Palacio, but stands well on it's own even if you have never read or seen Wonder. Julian is starting at a new school, and he wants to blend in and not stand out in one way or another when someone is being hurt, but his grandmother pays him a visit and tells him about growing up as a Jew in Nazi occupied France.

A beautifully told story, full of heart, with strong themes of hope, and choosing kindness by taking a stand against evil. I thought that this film did a great job of showing the horrors of what humans can inflict on each other, not shying away from the harsh realities faced by those living in France during the war, but also not overly explicit. I thought that the gravity of the events where tastefully depicted, and this film has a powerful message. There are thematic elements, and violence, I would recommend parents do their research to decide if their children are old enough to see this film, as young children should probably wait a few years, but the message is so timely and important. 

Sara Blum is amazed at the kindness of a classmate often scorned because of his disability, she comes to admire his bravery and that of his family to stand up to the status quo. I was very impressed with the solid message for all ages, that the only thing that can stand up to darkness is light, and that it takes bravery to choose kindness. A compelling film with masterful storytelling with a timeless and powerful message. You'll want to share this film with everyone you know!

  #WhiteBirdMIN #WhiteBirdMovie #BeBraveChooseKind

Many thanks to Kingdom Faith Marketing Services 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

The Emmeline Series: Finding Strength by Kathy J. Perry // JustRead Tour and Giveaway

Welcome to the Blog Tour for the Emeline series by Kathy J. Perry, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Books

Title: A Journey
Series: Emeline #1
Author: Kathy J Perry
Publisher: Chickadee Words, LLC
Release Date: November 1, 2023
Genre: Christian Young Adult 19th Century American Historical Fiction

A promise made to her dying father; a struggle that tests her faith; a journey that pushes her resilience and resourcefulness to their limits 

Emeline, a thirteen-year-old Missouri orphan, must set off on a quest across frontier America to fulfil her father’s last to find her grandfather in Boston. 

Crossing this dangerous and unforgiving land alone, she must face challenges without losing her faith, rising to every test ahead if she’s to survive and find a home at the end of her adventure. 

Will Emeline’s journey bring her the family she longs for? 

Readers of Laura Ingalls Wilder and Louisa May Alcott will delight in this fast-paced adventure.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Kathy J Perry | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

Title: Finding Strength: During the Panic of 1893
Series: Emeline #2
Author: Kathy J Perry
Publisher: Chickadee Words, LLC
Release Date: March 1, 2024
Genre: Christian Young Adult Historical Fiction 

When the world around you is falling apart, you must find strength within yourself. 

Three years after her father’s death, Emeline has settled into life in Indianapolis. 

Then an urgent visit to her childhood farm in Missouri changes everything. Her manager dies, the economy is in recession, and the caretakers are moving back to Wisconsin. Emeline is suddenly responsible for the farm… and she’s out of her depth. 

With the help of her closest allies, Emeline sets out to turn the farm around until disaster strikes and she must start again. Emeline faces her biggest challenge finding the courage to have confidence in herself. 

Can Emeline’s faith and resourcefulness bring her the joy and security she’s worked so hard to find? 

This coming-of-age tale is a must-read for lovers of historical fiction.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Kathy J Perry | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop | BookBub

Review: 

Emeline again must rise to the occasion, stepping up to the tasks laid before her. 

Emeline has enjoyed the last few years working for the Witherspoons, until her life changes again with the coming of a letter bringing her back to the farm after the death of the manager. Emeline must again make a solo journey in this coming of age tale, she reconnects with old friends and takes up the mantle of running the dairy farm with the help of the former manager's son, Andrew. 

Emeline learns valuable lessons, growing in her faith, while taking on new challenges, making new friends, and connecting with old ones. An enjoyable historical fiction with strong characters, and solid themes of faith in this coming of age story great for teen girls, and also enjoyable for adults. 

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

---

About the Author

Of the many jobs she’s held in the past, including thirty-five years of designing and constructing stained glass windows part-time, teaching was one of the most enjoyable for Kathy J. Perry because investing in kids is so important. To this end, she continues to encourage good character with clean, moral stories kids and teens love to read. Good books make such an impact. Writing is hard work, but there’s nothing like a good story to run off with your imagination. When things are flowing, it’s like a vacation. Sometimes the best ideas come in the middle of the night. When not writing, you’ll find her painting with watercolor, doing school visits, writing a blog, interviewing other writers, designing websites, working as an administrative assistant part-time, and renovating houses. Is this retirement? Apparently so! She loves every minute of it with her husband of 43 years.

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

---

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive signed print copies of A Journey and Finding Strength, companion journal, bookmarks, and a $25 Amazon gift card plus a code for free audiobooks for both titles!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 1, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 8, 2024. Winners 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

---

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