"Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain."
1 Corinthians 15:58
A thrilling high-stakes time travelling suspense, full of romance, as Kathryn works against the clock to save her sister from the clutches of Jack the Ripper.
Kathryn knows about her time crossing limitations but plans to push them to the limits to save her sister from a terrible fate. I admired her courage and love for her sister. Austin is the perfect brooding, protective hero with a heart of gold; he balances Kathryn's impulsive passion well.
A suspenseful read that was nothing less than un-put-downable, with a riveting plot, captivating characters, with a mystery that still has people guessing about to this day. It is always fun to see how the characters in each of the stories are linked by blood and time, and I loved seeing familiar faces from previous books.
A compelling thriller, set in two times, as Kathryn and Austin stand up to evil, fighting for her sister and a future, grounded by a solid message of faith in God's timing. Ms. Meyer has outdone herself with this page-turning addition to the series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A delightfully chaotic rom-com, that at times was outright outrageous!
An opposites attract, fake-dating fiasco. Charlotte is willing to do almost anything to save her job as a small town music teacher in Illinois, even if it means riding 500 miles on a tandem bike with the brother of her former fiancé. Did I mention that she hates the outdoors?
A laugh out loud funny romp, at times you have to suspend disbelief at some of the antics, but appreciate the heart behind it all. Charlotte's sister, Sophie is hilarious, dramatic, and has a problem solving heart for others. Zack is a good sport through it all, encouraging Charlotte when she doesn't know if she can continue, being supportive while giving her space.
Overall, this was a quick fun read, full of snowballing hilarious situations that got crazier as the plot thickened. I liked that Charlotte took the risks and tried something she would have never imagined before. A cute, somewhat slapstick rom-com, full of heart and themes of trusting God with our paths.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A stirring family drama that explores themes of faith, and complicated family dynamics.
Sophie returns home after a disastrous short-lived run on Broadway to keep a low profile and work at the family winery, to makes some money while figuring out what's next. Music producer, August Tate is having trouble letting go when it comes to raising his teenaged sister Gabby. I loved how this book brought the Fog Harbor Trilogy full circle with Sophie and August recording the audio books for Chip at Fog Harbor Books.
Sophie has a complicated family that doesn't see things the way she does, I loved how she connected with Gabby, and was introduced to the vibrant deaf community, seeing how Gabby is finding her place and thriving. August is a protective brother, he wants the best for her, but sometimes that isn't a straightforward thing. I liked the complex characters and family dynamics, with strong themes of faith, and family.
A compelling family drama, heartwarming, and full of faith, with complex characters and relationships. You could feel the tensions rising. A memorable read, that pulled me in and didn't let go. Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Broken promises and betrayal in their past, Delia and Finn are thrown together to raise vital funds for the Commission for Relief in Belgium during WWI.
A compelling historical story of the behind the scenes during World War I, I liked learning more about Belgium and what they were going through during the German occupation and how the USA helped with rations, saving many lives. Finn and Delia were childhood best friends, having a lot of history together, and I enjoyed seeing them slowly work on their relationship.
A fascinating story, with some real life historical figures.
Delia and Finn had both been through a lot separately in their years apart, but I liked that they both challenged each other to remember the good and fight for a future in the present. I liked seeing characters from previous books be incorporated into the story as well. A compelling novel of the first world war, rich in history, with a story of loyalty, faith, and second chances.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Cressida Dane is on a mission to finish her late father's manuscript, and in order to do that she is determined to separate fact from fiction about the Spector's Bounty. Braden Sanders finds himself helping Cressida because of his ties to her mother's work, while waiting to find a cure for his young niece who is fighting a rare kind of cancer. When Cressida's investigation puts her in the crosshairs of some dangerous people, with dark intentions.
A fast paced suspense, full of adventure, mystery, and danger. A twisting story that keeps you guessing, with strong protagonists, great relationship building and faith. Braden is a great guy, and I liked how he volunteers to come along for the ride. It was fun learning about floating wrecks, in this fast paced read. There is a lot going on, and pieces that connect and intertwine.
Braden and Cressida make a great team, working together to discover the truth. I liked that they bonded over a shared faith, and can rely on each other in this high stakes suspense. Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The adventures of the Summers sisters continue, the changing seasons bring royalty to Sidmouth, and three male staff members end up staying at the sister's inn.
Emily has dreams of publication, and she is enlisted to write a guide book for the area. But a face from the past has her questioning her future.
A delightful and compelling story, full of faith, and everyday heartwarming adventures in the spirit of Downton Abbey. I liked the full cast of characters with both familiar and new characters. I loved the incorporation of the royal household, and their staff into the story, with baby Queen Victoria. Compelling storylines, with characters that are raw in imperfect, yet relatable in their humanity. I liked the themes of compassion, family, love, honesty and more.
A wonderful addition to the series, and I can't wait to see what is next for the Summers sisters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
David is off to church camp for the first time with his best friend Nate, in his diary and emails home he documents his days as he tries to stay out of trouble and learns to think of others besides himself.
From the start you get the inkling that David might be a few notches above your average troublemaker, but you can't help but love him as he finds his way. I liked how we see non-neurotypical characters presented, with themes of trying new things, facing fears, and forgiveness. Nate is a good friend, and I liked how David is sensitive to his needs. The story is fast-paced, with fun accompanying illustrations. Great for those who are gaining reading confidence with chapter books. A fun new series for older elementary readers, full of fun and silly shennanigans!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
After a tumultuous upbringing, Noreen O'Sullivan has a heart for the temperance movement.
An engaging story, with endearing characters that you can cheer for throughout. I liked how James admires Noreen's courage to stand up for what she believes, and how they both take the time to understand each other's points of view. James is a fair and reasonable deputy, taking care of the town with grace and plenty of patience.
This book really has it all, likable characters, faith, humor, and romance. I liked getting to know a few of the other local "spinsters" as well. A full cast of characters in a lively small western town, full of faith, great tension and relationship building, with a lot going on. I liked how the author thoughtfully dealt with the issue of alcohol abuse, and the temperance movement.
A riveting western read, and start to a what is sure to be a fantastic new series. I loved James, Noreen, and all the ladies in the Society of Spinsters, it was such a fun read, with great dialogue, interaction, and stirring characters arcs. Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The story of St. Nicholas of Myra like you've never heard it before.
A companion or sister book to Of Love and Treason, with a scattering of familiar faces, but also a solid stand alone novel. Demitria and her brother Theseus eek out a living as coral harvesters, diving deep for the hidden treasures of the ocean. Demi and her brother use their boat to gather provisions to help feed the other Christians, but as the persecution increases the risk grows. But a friend in the form of Nicholas of Myra comes to their aid, when Theseus is injured.
A captivating story of ancient Rome, showing the hardship and persecution of the early church. I liked how it showed the early church caring for each other and living each day knowing the cost of their faith.
An engaging read, I learned a lot about ancient history and Nicholas of Myra. Such a great read, enjoyable storyline and core of faith.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A powerful new film about how "A Heavenly Father" changes everything.
From the award-winning director of the Kendrick Brothers’ documentary Show Me the Father, He Calls Me Daughter is a poignant exploration of father-daughter relationships and the lasting impact they have on a woman’s life. Through honest stories and thoughtful insight, the film examines the deep “father wound” many women carry. He Calls Me Daughter reveals how faith in Jesus Christ brings healing, transforms lives and restores identity. A Heavenly Father changes everything!
HE CALLS ME DAUGHTER is for women who have felt unseen, unsupported, or unsure of their worth—and who long for love that feels safe. This honest exploration of father-daughter relationships reveals the lasting impact they can have on a woman’s life. Through intimate, first-person stories, viewers follow women as they begin to name the pain they’ve carried for years: father wound.
Audiences are invited to reflect on their own story as they walk alongside these women on a journey toward healing. At the heart of the movie is an encounter with Jesus—a perfect heavenly Father who sees, stops, and calls His daughters by name. HE CALLS ME DAUGHTER is an invitation to experience the love of a Father who does not withdraw—One who offers peace, belonging, and restoration.
He Calls Me Daughter is releasing in theaters March 17 & 18 only.
Still Hope is a movie where awareness about human
trafficking meets compassion and recovery begins.
Freedom is just the beginning.
Hope, a teenager from a tight-knit community, finds herself in danger when the person she believes to be a new friend proves unsafe. Taken from all she knows, Hope is forced into sex trafficking and stripped of her identity.
After finding freedom from her captors, Hope discovers that survival is only the first step. Inspired by true stories, Hope’s journey is a powerful illustration of the courage it takes to walk the complex path of recovery.
Get tickets now to see this powerful film in theaters February 5!
A portion of ticket proceeds will go towards organizations that care for victims of trafficking.
My Review:
A powerful story of recovery and true freedom through faith.
This story deals with a difficult topic, and I think that it did a good job of realistically showing how she had no choice and day by day her hope was stripped away. But more than that it showed recovery in an honest and raw way. Hope questions God's goodness, and struggles to trust when all her trust was taken away. When I first started watching I thought it would be your typical faith film, but I was wrong! It is so much more, not shying away from hard questions and topics, struggling with faith, throughout and with the aftermath.
A cautionary tale, that can be a good conversation starter with your children about social media use, and strangers online. It deals with a very real and difficult topic, and it does a good job of showing it with gritty realness, but not being overly explicit or graphic. Good for families with teens, though parents may want to preview.
A well done film, with a powerful story, talented cast, and solid core of faith. An inspiring story of redemption, recovery, and hope.
Many thanks to Studio 523 for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.
Two sisters, both talented singers, separated by oceans during WWII.
Caramina Grassi longs to become an opera singer like her sister Rosa, who lives in Italy. But when the Japanese come to the Philippines, Caramina and her family must flee to go work on a rice farm in the jungle. The story follows the hardships faced by the sisters, as they wait out the war, facing an uncertain future, leaning on faith and bonded by their love of music.
Based on a true story of hope, faith and resilience. An engaging and compelling read, that has the author drawing from the life experiences of her mother and aunts. A well told story that shows a well known time period from an angle I'd never read before. It was fascinating reading about things experienced in the Philippines, as well as Italy.
A powerful and compelling story, realistic, and gritty, with inspiring themes of faith. I admired how Cara's family was determined to stick together and face things as a family. This is my first time reading this author, and this novel is a masterful debut. Highly recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The second installment of the spin off series to the Secret of the Hidden Scrolls, finds Mary, Peter, Uncle Solomon, and Hank one step closer to rescuing the remaining hidden scrolls from the evil collector.
Fun and fast paced chapter book, targeted at elementary ages children, gaining confidence with reading. In this adventure they travel back in time to the prophet Jonah's time, where they travel alongside him into the stomach of the big fish. They learn important lessons of faith, and how God hears when we pray.
A wonderful faith-based series full of adventure, with a continuing storyline throughout the series of evading the Collector. Great fun, with solid core of faith.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Navy SEAL Logan Russell heads back to his hometown to check on his twin sister, Lisa, who hasn't been responding to his texts lately. His investigation leads him to Sheriff Isabelle Sinclair, his sister's best friend who is also looking into Lisa's disappearance. Turns out there is a string of missing barrel racers, Logan and Izzie join forces to get to the bottom of who is targeting the girls.
A fast paced suspense, with high stakes, engaging storyline, and likable leading characters. Logan has a K-9, Shadow, and is unsure where his career will lead after getting injured. He and Izzie make a great team, working together, with a shared determination to bring the killer to justice. I liked how Izzie also bonded with Shadow, as well. There is a lot of good interaction, and strong themes of faith.
Overall, a high suspense read, with a lot going on, and a well built backstory. I liked the Texas rodeo setting, high stakes, and characters that I could cheer for throughout.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Mary, Peter and Hank are back in a brand new series, exploring Israel with their uncle Solomon, discovering more secret scrolls!
A fast paced adventure that takes them to the courts of Queen Esther, on a mission to solve the secret of the scroll before time runs out, while avoiding the evil Collector.
A fun read that sets up well for the books to come. Easy to read chapter book, great for children who are gaining confidence in reading, with a good ratio of illustrations along with large easy to read print, that is well spaced, and good straightforward sentence structure.
A wonderful adventure for elementary ages children, with themes of trusting God's plans. A terrific spin off series, with the same original characters!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A charming rom-com, with a sweet grumpy-sunshine pairing, delightful setting, and compelling relationship building.
When circulation librarian Haley Holt get's stranded in the rat trap of a bookmobile, because of a rock slide that leaves her stuck in Turkey Grove. Mechanic Levi Redding can't ignore a damsel in distress, so he offers his help despite his more reclusive ways.
A wonderful rom-com that has characters who deal with fears, overstimulation in social settings, and self induces pressure to measure up. I liked that Haley brought out a different side of Levi, and let him know that he was supported. And in a similar fashion, he gives her assurance, and takes the time to let her know that he will be there for her whatever tomorrow brings.
A cute setting, with fun characters, with fun, flirty dialogue. But there are also more serious moments that are well handled, as well as a core of faith. A fun quick read, and I loved the representation of neurodivergent and book loving characters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Ginny's plans to live out her dreams of moving to England are derailed with news of her brother's death and a surprise inheritance. She goes back to the place she left some many years ago to find the family farm at risk of losing it all, and her two nephews fighting different battles for survival. A story of prodigals come home, faith and family.
A heartfelt and compelling story of family, Ginny wants to help and do right by her two nephews and their families, but she doesn't know how to make up the deficit in back taxes. Luke and his wife Bethany have worked the farm for years, caring for Harold in his last years, with his mood swings and erratic behavior. Mark shows up with his three children in tow, hoping that the farm can give them a fresh start. Arlo is a young girl who has seen too much in her short time on earth, fiercely protective of her siblings.
A wonderful multi-layered novel of faith and family. Ginny finds hope and home in and unexpected place, forging bonds that run deeper than blood, through sacrifice, and commitment. I liked how this story used multiple points of view, and tells the story through multiple angles. A highly compelling, spiritually rich novel of hope, family, and coming home.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Trapped by an avalanche with a a stalker on the loose that has followed Cassie to her friend's destination wedding, she must work with her ex Joel to survive the extreme conditions with a killer on the loose.
A fast paced and suspenseful story, set high in the Colorado mountains. There is a lot going on, with a full cast of great characters. I liked the strong themes of faith, and second chance romance. Joel and Cassie make a great team, work together great. Joel is very supportive and understanding. Great high stakes suspense.
Snowbound Secrets by Lynette Eason
Dr. Maya Sullivan dreams of turning the ranch her inherited into a safe haven for recovering Veterans. But when an avalanche traps her at a Colorado ski lodge, unexpectedly reuniting her with her high school crush, they must work together to escape the shadowy intentions of someone who seems to be following her every move.
An engaging read, with likable protagonists, and a couple you can cheer for throughout. There is a lot going on, with strong relationship building and plenty of action. Good characters arcs, and strong themes of faith. Definitely recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Caroline doesn't know why, but when she falls asleep in 1727, she awakes in 1927, living two separate lives 200 years apart.
In 1727 she is fleeing an unwanted marriage in hopes of finding her mother and answers to her mysterious life, she joins the crew of a pirate ship disguised as a boy, taking the job of cabin boy to Marcus Zale. While in 1927 she is the dutiful daughter of a renown evangelist, trying to hold the pieces together of her family's picture perfect image, while working with her childhood friend to investigate her strange life.
An engaging tale from beginning to end, it was different seeing it through the eyes of someone who didn't know what was happening to them or why. I liked how Caroline was challenged in both times to examine her faith, finding true friends and defenders in both timelines. While, both timelines were wonderful, I couldn't help being drawn to Caroline's pirate lifeline more. I admired her parents in 1927 for approaching difficult things honestly and head on, without excuses.
Overall, a fantastic novel that is a wonderful addition to the series. I loved the juxtaposition of both the time lines, compelling plot, all centered around a core of faith. Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The story of a man who lived by faith, and would one day become a legend.
Iris is blind and lives with her father who is a jailor for the Roman empire, drowning in debt while looking a for a cure for her blindness they have begun to lose all hope. But then she meets a mysterious stranger who gives her hope, while risking his life fighting for what he believes.
An intriguing and well written historical fiction, set in ancient Rome. I loved the well researched setting, and how it shows the early church during the Roman reign. Iris is a good daughter, and she is used to her world of darkness. I liked how she found friendship with Beatrix, and Val. Strong Christian themes of trusting God with our lives, and confidence that faith is worth the scorn of the world.
Overall, a compelling tale of faith and love in ancient Rome. Wonderful characters, strong faith, and engaging storytelling. Definitely recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Strange connections come to light while Detective Lainie searches for her sister who has gone missing in Hawaii. Her search leads her to FBI agent Ben Isaacs who is working on the case from a different angle. Together they form an hesitant alliance to get to the bottom of the disappearance.
Highly engaging, filled with suspense, good relationship building and complex characters. There are a lot of pieces, with a lot going on. Good realistic storytelling, with strong faith, and an excellent plot. I liked the Ben and Lainie got to know each other while working on the case and bonded over their faith.
A suspenseful read that kept me guessing, with great relationship building and I enjoyed the strong faith themes. Lainie is skeptical of Ben at first, but as they work together they find that working together might be just what they need to blow the case wide open. Highly engaging, excellent suspense!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A heart tugging dual-timeline tale of love and sacrifice in the Appalachia Mountains.
Country singer Walker Wylie enlists the help of adoption advocate Reese Chandler on his search to learn more about his roots. Together they uncover the mysteries of the past long left undisturbed.
A compelling story of life and love, Songbird comes into the Jenkins sister's lives unexpectedly, and they embrace the young woman with open arms. An engaging split time read, set in the 1930's and 1970's, with compelling characters, and storyline. I loved Bertie, and how she supported Songbird, offering a safe haven and protection. She is a voice of reason throughout the whole story. I like her gentle encouragement, and how she lives her life of faith.
Overall, a gentle more slow burning read than previous books by this author, but I think it lends it self to the beautiful unfolding of the story through showing, and the development of the characters. Well worth the read, and another winner from Michelle Shocklee.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Brenda must fight for her and her daughter's lives, as their witness protection cover is blown and they must depend on their neighbor, former cop Maxwell Prescott.
A fast paced suspense, with a lot going for it. There is a lot going on, and Brenda is determined to do what is takes to keep her daughter safe. Maxwell, is the right guy at the right time, he sees that Brenda and Rose are in need and goes above and beyond to keep them safe. I admired Brenda's faith, and how she trusted God to keep them safe.
An engaging story, with high stakes and strong, likable characters. Rose is so adorable and I liked how she befriended Maxwell. Great character interaction, and relationship building suspense. Definitely recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Tasked with the difficult job of gathering an army and finding skilled artisans for Saul, Zevi finds himself in a tough spot when the town of Maresha denies Saul's kingship.
Yochana is a gifted perfumer and young widow, who finds herself taken and unexpectedly thrust into Zevi's plot against the Philistines.
An action packed and engaging novel, set in a time period not often explored in Biblical history, early in Saul's reign. Zevi and Yochana both have compelling backstories, and I liked their enemies to friends arc. This is an excellent addition to the series, with strong themes of faith, trusting God, and using our gifts to serve others.
Engaging read, with a compelling plot, plenty of character growth, and good relationship development. Wonderfully immersive, well researched, and I couldn't put it down. Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A fast paced adventure as they try to outrun a killer and survive the Alaskan wilderness.
Keely Williams is a pop star on a quest to connect with her biological mother, but when the plane is hijacked she is thrust into a race for survival against a killer and the elements. Thankfully she finds a friend in Dawson Mulligan a retired police detective, with a K9 companion in tow.
An action packed read full of adventure, suspense, and great character interaction and relationship building. There is a lot going on, and I liked the strong themes of faith and family throughout. Well paced plot, with great dialogue.
Overall, a thrilling adventure with a clever K9 and great emotional depth. Dawson meanwhile, is working through what to do with his life next. Wonderful start to a new series. Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A heartwarming story of hope, horses, and healing.
Contractor Jace Moore has been dealing with fears about love since losing his parents in his youth. He is building the new riding arena for equine therapist Meredith Lewis, and she gives him the opportunity to ride and volunteer at her center.
A heartwarming tale, with great characters and an engaging plot. I liked that Jace wants to make a change in his life and be more intentional about how he is living. Meredith is passionate and dedicated to her job, and enjoys seeing Jace bond with her horse, Bella, as well as find the answers he is looking for.
Overall, a really enjoyable read, with characters that you can cheer for throughout. Strong threads of faith. Definitely Recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Lucie is Faith's mom, and reviews books that catch her eye that are sitting on her daughter's bookshelf. She is a big fan of pretty much anything western, with mystery and a good love story.
