Love's Sweet Beginning by Ann Shorey ~ Revell Blog Tour & Review

Lucie's Review:

Cassie Haddon grew up with a mother who never let her do anything, so she never learned how to do anything.  They move back to Noble Springs to be with her brother, Rand, but Cassie finds out that her mother was hiding their financial situation from her. They are broke. Cassie and her mother end up staying with Rosemary and Stewart, but as the stay extends it begins to wear on the newlyweds who are expecting their first child.
Cassie realizes that she can't be a burden to her friends so she finds a job working for Mr. West at his store and restaurant, and he hires her on a trial basis figuring that she won't last. But her determination convinces Mr. West to let her stay.
Jake is finding more and more reasons to eat at the restaurant after Cassie starts working there, but he's got secrets of his own and he's afraid of what she would think if she knew. But finally he asks her on a buggy ride. Can love bloom on a road filled with obstacles?

Return to Noble Springs with this wonderful conclusion to the Sisters at Heart series. I loved meeting new characters as well as revisiting Faith and Rosemary. Both Cassie and Jake have some growing to do. My favorite character ended up being Reverend French, who was always kind and had sage advice to impart.

Overall, this was a good conclusion to a series, bringing together the sisters at heart. I will be honest here and say that this story didn't really hook me as much as I had hoped, it wasn't bad, far from it, but I kept feeling the whole time that I should like it a lot more than I did. But it was a sweet story, with great characters. I would mostly recommend this book to people who have read the first two books in the series, because it brings backs so many wonderful couples and characters.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Smitten Book Club by Collen Coble, Kristin Billerbeck, Denise Hunter, DiAnn Hunt ~ Litfuse Blog Tour & Review

Lucie's Review:

The Gentlewoman's Guide to Love and Courtship.

One book touches the lives of four women in the town of Smitten.

After being hurt by a man before, Heather is suspicious of Paul, especially since he left long ago and hasn't come back until now. Can Heather open her heart to trust God to guide her in His plan?

The town librarian, Abby, never leaves the house except for work, church, or the book club. Wyatt's been trying to get Abby's attention, and he's tried everything, computerizing the library's system and even reading Jane Austen, but every time he tries to talk to her, Casey, the other librarian swoops in and starts flirting with him. Abby's adventures have always been within the covers of a book, will she be able to open her mind to an adventure outside the cover of a book?

Lia and Joey were best friends growing up, but when Joey left Smitten they lost contact. Now after the death of his wife, he returns to Smitten with his young daughter, Grace. Will Lia's Mom be able to knock some sense into Joey, so that's he'll se what was always right in front of him?

Molly's husband died while fighting a fire, and Molly had been managing on her own for years, but now she's about to loose the business they worked so hard to build together. And Molly has lost her guide and her best bet is learning to take people out by herself, and the best person to train her is also her stiffest competition. Is Molly's heart ready to love again?

I loved each and every story, there wasn't one that I didn't like. Each of the stories had great heroes and heroines, with great plotting and pacing, and terrific dialogue. A winner the whole way round. With strong themes of faith and friendship, in the delightful town of Smitten. You won't want to miss a single story, in this wonderful collection.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

About the book: The century-old Gentlewoman's Guide to Love and Courtship is no ordinary book club choice. But for the little book club in Smitten, Vermont, it might be their best pick yet!

The thick, leathery tome Heather pulled out of the dusty cardboard box was definitely coming home with her. Not only was The Gentlewoman's Guide to Love and Courtship an appealing curiosity by virtue of its title; it was also written by Smitten, Vermont native Pearl Chambers, a local gentlewoman from three generations back.

Little did Heather know the repercussions this little curiosity would have on her and her friends' romantic exploits.
When Heather and her fellow book club members begin passing the book around, their respective interpretations are unleashed on their respective love lives . . . for better or for worse. Is it a mystery? An idealist fantasy? An intimation of Jane Austen? As romantic love finds its way to each woman, the Guide proves itself both surprisingly prescient and hilariously irrelevant.

What's more, a handwritten inscription indicates that the arcane book might hold the only extant clues leading to buried gold---exactly what one of the members needs to keep her house. How could they not go treasure hunting?

In this remarkable collaborative novel, besties Colleen Coble, Kristin Billerbeck, Denise Hunter, and Diann Hunt tackle the tale of the Gentlewoman's Guide by writing for one book club member apiece. Smitten Book Club is a hopeful, hilarious story of friendship and healing, written by friends for friends.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/t7BO1

Meet the authors: 

RITA-finalist Colleen Coble is the author of several best-selling romantic suspense novels, including Tidewater Inn, and the Mercy Falls, Lonestar, and Rock Harbor series.  

Christy Award finalist and two-time winner of the ACFW Book of the Year award, Kristin Billerbeck has appeared on The Today Show and has been featured in the New York Times. Her books include A Billion Reasons Why and What a Girl Wants.  

Denise Hunter is the award-winning and best-selling author of several novels, including A Cowboy's Touch and Sweetwater Gap. She and her husband are raising three boys in Indiana. 

Diann Hunt has lived in Indiana forever, been happily married forever, loves her family, chocolate, her friends, her dog, and, well, chocolate. Diann lost her courageous battle with cancer in December 2013.

http://litfusegroup.com/author/smitten

The Smitten gals are back with their newest release, Smitten Book Club! Colleen Coble, Kristin Billerbeck, and Denise Hunter are celebrating with a Kindle Fire giveaway, a Facebook party on February 20, and a nationwide book-club brunch on March 22.

 
One winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire HDX
• The Smitten books (Smitten, Secretly Smitten, Smitten Book Club)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on February 20th. Winner will be announced at the Smitten Book Club Facebook Author Chat Party on February 20th. Connect with Colleen Coble, Denise Hunter, and Kristin Billerbeck for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! The Smitten gals will also be taking questions from the audience, giving away books and gift certificates, and sharing news about their upcoming nationwide Smitten Book Club brunch on March 22nd. (Sign up to host today!)

So grab your copy of Smitten Book Club and join Colleen, Denise, Kristin, and friends on the evening of February 20th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 20th!

Sign up to host a Smitten Book Club Brunch on March 22nd!

Sex and the Single Christian Girl by Marian Jordan Ellis ~ Review

My Review:

Why do we watch Romantic Comedies and sigh over their heroes, and smile in contentment when the final credits roll and the destiny driven couple has had their fairy tale ending? Why do we cheer when the main characters make bad decisions all in the name of love?

When you stop to think about it, it doesn't make much sense. Romantic comedies have little to do with real life, and are often filled with flaws. Ms. Ellis honestly tells her story, and shares her struggles all the while encouraging, and pointing to the gospel of Jesus Christ. It's been a long time since I've read a book like this one.

What most impressed me about this book was that it wasn't the typical book that talked about dating or courtship and all the things you should and shouldn't do. It is a book that focuses on finding truth in the only firm foundation of Jesus Christ, and avoiding the pitfalls that can detour us, especially in today's culture.

I was very impressed with this book, and would happily recommend it to other single young women.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

A March Bride by Rachel Hauck ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

If you've read Ms. Hauck's Once Upon a Prince, you will love this delightful short story that picks up directly after the fairy tale engagement. Susanna Truit, a true southern girl from Georgia, is about to marry King Nathaniel II of Brighton. But things are not as simple as they seem, and their trip down the aisle will be far from easy.

Even you haven't read Once Upon a Prince it won't be hard to find yourself caught up in the adventure, and the characters. While the backstory isn't totally rehashed, the author makes it easy to figure out what has happened and what is going on. The plot and pace kept me reading, and fit the short story format well.

My absolute favorite part was the wedding, it was so romantic! But I'd better not tell you about that!

Overall this was a wonderful book, filled with romance, tension, and drama, and a satisfying resolution. Nathaniel was an honorable hero, and even though he was king he had his priorities in line. And Susanna's pastor was a wise man with plenty of sage advice. I would definitely recommend this fantastic modern fairy tale!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Forget Me Not by Amber Stokes ~ Review

My Review:

Elizabeth Lawson is on a quest to find the brother she never knew. After being rescued from a raging river by a handsome mountain man, David, she finds herself trusting him as he joins her on her journey to Virginia City. But David has secrets of his own. Can love grow in the wake of heartache?

The prequel to Bleeding Heart, Forget Me Not took me back to Virginia City where it all started. Elizabeth and David's story was beautiful, and heartfelt. And I was pleased to find Joe, Seth, Myghal, and Sally  also included in this touching tale.

The characters captured my heart, in this tender tale of prodigals and a love that never forgets. The story was of a good pace, and full of surprises, my heart especially went out to Joe, after finally learning the story of his past. Myghal again, stole the scene a couple times with his sage words and fierce friendship. I can't wait to read his story!

Overall, this was a tale that true to its title is not easily forgotten. Forget Me Not tells of love that holds on, even when hope seems lost, and love that gives hope for a new future. Definitely a book I would recommend most highly.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

About the Book:

Old hurts, new betrayals, and a love that survives them all...

Summer 1885

A startling revelation sends Elizabeth Lawson escaping into a stormy night - and tosses her into
the arms of a young mountain man with secrets of his own. When he offers to take her to the
Nevada mining town where her long-lost brother lives, she accepts. Suspicions and uncertainties
are pushed aside as she struggles to forge a future for herself by meeting her past.
David has been hiding from his painful memories for years. The solitude and wildness of the
Rocky Mountains are challenge and comfort enough for him - until Elizabeth's arrival. Fueled
by anger and a sense of obligation, he strives to take control of his new situation...only to find
control slipping from his grasp with each new emotion Elizabeth evokes in him.
When their journey leads them on unexpected paths, can two lonely hearts find the strength to
remember the good amid the heartbreak?

Inspirational Historical Romance

Book Website: http://forgetmenotnovel.blogspot.com/
Series Blog: http://theheartsspringseries.blogspot.com/

Join the party and keep up with the latest news about Forget Me Not : http://seasonsofhumility.blogspot.com/p/forget-me-not-blog-tour.html

About Amber:

Amber Stokes has a Bachelor of Science degree in English and a passion for the written word
- from blogging to writing poetry, short stories, and novels. After her brief time at college in
Oregon, she is now back home among the redwoods of Northern California, living life one day at
a time and pursuing her passion via freelance editing and self-publishing.


Giveaway Information

An “Unforgettable Journey” Giveaway! Enter for the chance to win an epic entertainment
package that includes a signed paperback copy of Forget Me Not, The Journey of Natty Gann on
DVD, and “Barton Hollow” by The Civil Wars on CD. The giveaway is open to U.S. residents
only.

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The Marshal's Ready-Made Family by Sherri Shackelford ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

JoBeth McCoy is a strong, independent woman. She wears boots and pants under her dress, and she doesn't care what other people think about her. Jo works at the telegraph office, so she is the first one to find out that Cora,  the marshal's niece who lost both her parents, is coming to town. But Cora is set to arrive when the marshal, Garrett is out of town so Jo offers to take the little girl in.

When Garrett returns and finds out what is going on, he is reluctant to agree to JoBeth's suggestion that they get married out of convenience to take care of Cora, whom she has come to care for as her own. But as the situation worsens they find themselves thrown into a marriage of necessity, can they turn it into a marriage of love?

Garrett is a honorable man, and he is determined to do what is right for Cora and Jo. There many interesting characters in the town, especially JoBeth's parents and five brothers. Jack Elder even shows up in the end and tells her that marriage is work but it's "worthwhile work."

My favorite character was Jo. She is tough, and determined, yet she is willing to try new things. I admired her resilience.

I really enjoyed this book, it was engaging from the start with a spunky heroine, that I instantly liked. There was action, adventure, drama, and great characters, good dialogue, humor, and a terrific ending that took me a bit by surprise! You won't want to miss this one!


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Bending Toward the Sun by Mona Hodgson ~ Review

Review: Emily Heinrich's father, Johann, owns the general store in town. It has been just the two of them for many years, and he is very protective of his only child, which is why when he sees Emily talking to Quaid McFarland he is far from pleased. As far as Johann is concerned Quaid has three strikes against him.

1. He's Irish, not German
2. He's a freighter
3. Emily is attending college and doesn't need distractions

But Quaid is so much more than that, he is a man of honor who would never dream of hurting Emily by coming between her and her father. Is there still a chance for love to grow?

This is a tale that fits perfectly as a novella, with both new and returning characters. Ms. Hodgson did an excellent job of capturing the feel of what it was like to live and work in a rapidly growing town along the Mississippi River after the Civil War.

Both Emily and Quaid were likable main characters, and I loved how they had such a huge respect for him despite their disagreements. One of my favorite characters actually ended up being Emily's father, Johann, because he had such love his heart for his daughter, and only wanted what was best for her.

Overall, this was a sweet story and actually my favorite of the series. I would happily recommend the entire series to fans of historical fiction.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."



 

Shadows of the Past by Patricia Bradley ~ Review

Astor's review:

A gripping, thriller, taunt with mystery and suspense.

Taylor Martin has everything, except the one thing she can't have, her father back. She's a criminal profiler that has been able to solve every mystery, but the one she most desperately wants to find the answers to. Taylor's life has been full of broken relationships, and she's been burned by her tendency to hold on to the past.
When Nick Sinclair is a mystery writer, who lost his wife in a tragedy. When his brother Scott is framed for stalking Taylor, he finds himself trying to defend his brother and clear his name. But when his poems begin showing up in eerie places, he decides to help Taylor find out who is haunting her, and there might be more to their connection than just their growing friendship...

I think I have a new favorite author. Every chapter was taunt with suspense, leading effortlessly into the next chapter, and the next time you look up it's 200 pages later. This book grabs you up and doesn't let go. I was so surprised by how much I loved it, if you are a fan of Irene Hannon or Lynette Eason, you will become an instant fan of Ms. Bradley, I can pretty much guarantee it!

Taylor and Nick were terrific characters who had great chemistry throughout, both of them struggle with letting go of their painful pasts and giving them to God. This book was fast-paced and well written, making it hard to put down, all the while keeping me guessing.

Overall, a stunning debut from an author that I will definitely be reading in the future! Everything about this book was fantastic, chapter to chapter and page to page. I HIGHLY recommend this book!



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Unstoppable Movie by Kirk Cameron ~ Review, Blog Tour & Giveaway

My Review:

Kirk Cameron uses the scripture to illustrate God's providences and power in the wake of loss and suffering. From creation and through the book of Genesis, Mr. Cameron takes the viewer through many of God's promises, as well as the rich foundation of our faith.

The movie was well done with artistic re-enactments and representations, all the while being narrated by Mr. Cameron who spoke in an enthusiastic conversational way.

This movie illustrates God's Unstoppable will, and how even through the tough times, and the pain of this world God is working out His powerful Unstoppable plan.

A great movie, with a powerful message.

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

 Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

 

ABOUT UNSTOPPABLE

Inspired by the death of Cameron’s close friend who succumbed to cancer at the age of 15, Kirk Cameron takes viewers on an inspiring and hope-filled visual journey to better understand the biggest doubt-raising question in faith: “Where is God in the midst of tragedy and suffering?”

 

Going back to the beginning—literally—Kirk investigates the origins of good and evil and how they impact our lives … and our eternities. UNSTOPPABLE will prompt audiences to consider the role that pain and suffering has in our lives, as they affirm their personal views on faith, and encourage conversation starters about God, suffering, and hope. 

 

In theaters for only two weeknights (Sept 24th and Oct 3th, 2013), UNSTOPPABLE: A Live Event with Kirk Cameron sold a staggering 260,000 tickets and reached a theatrical gross of over $3.2 million dollars. In just two nights this independent project sent a loud message – audiences want thought-provoking and meaningful entertainment.   

 

Kirk Cameron is best known for his memorable role as “Mike Seaver,” a cultural icon of the 80's, with his mullet hairstyle, cool glasses, and wisecracking comebacks. More recently he enjoyed much success with the No. 1 grossing inspirational film of 2008, Fireproof, and his recent documentary, Monumental. Kirk and his wife, Chelsea, were on-screen sweethearts during their Growing Pains years and are the founders of Camp Firefly, where terminally and seriously ill children and their families are provided an all-expense paid retreat (www.CampFirefly.com). Together, Kirk and Chelsea live in California with their six children.

 

Visit the official website: http://unstoppablethemovie.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unstoppablethemovie

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/UnstoppableDVD

 

About Provident Films: 

Provident Films, a division of Sony Music Entertainment, produces, markets, and distributes faith-based films. The company is part of Nashville-based Provident Music Group, which has been one of the world’s leading Christian entertainment companies for more than three decades.  Films from the company have included Courageous, October Baby, Fireproof, and Facing the Giants. More info is available at ProvidentFilms.org.

 

 

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Wishing on Buttercups by Miralee Ferrell ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Beth Roberts and her Aunt Wilma reside in the boarding house owned by Katherine and Micah Jacobs (the couple from the last book), while they are they are there Beth meets Jeffery Tucker, another boarder who is also a writer. Beth has a wonderful gift, that is also her secret, her talent for drawing.
Jeffery finds a book of beautiful sketches in the bushes, and decides from that moment to make find their artist his mission. He is surprised to find that the mysterious artist is none other than the shy young woman staying at his boarding house.
Can Beth let go of the hurt that haunts her and more forward with her life and perhaps find love?

This book has a whole cast of characters, many of which may be familiar to you if you've read the previous book in the series,  Blowing on Dandelions. The characters were well developed and brought a feeling of community to the story. There were also times of good dialogue, though misunderstandings abounded between Jeffery and Beth. The setting was realistic and faith was an important theme.

Jeffery was may favorite character. He continued to try and get to know Beth even when she pulled back and acted strangely. He is determined to make it on his own, even though his family is wealthy.
He is a man of honor and of faith.

Overall this was a sweet romance with plenty of side stories and threads all interweaving and coming together throughout the town. There were times though that I felt more was going on in their heads than in real-life, and this wasn't the easiest book to follow. But if you enjoyed Blowing on Dandelions, this would definitely one to read :)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

Back Cover:

Can Love Survive When Secrets Collide? She’d kept her secrets safely hidden—those from her past, and those in the present. Some things, Beth Roberts knows, a lady simply doesn’t share, even in the 1880’s West. The townspeople would never understand. No one ever has. Jeffery Tucker, a handsome young writer, has kept his own secrets. He doesn’t have a right to pry into Beth’s affairs but finds himself strangely drawn to her and intrigued by the whiff of mystery surrounding her. Beth knows that one day someone will unravel the threads of her past. And when two men from her past arrive, the truth might just hurt . . . Beth’s future and her heart. As shadowy memories surface, Beth sketches the scenes she sees and is shocked by what—and who—her illustrations reveal. Dare she risk her heart again?


Miralee Ferrell and her husband, Allen, live on eleven acres in the beautiful Columbia River Gorge in southern Washington State, where they love to garden, play with their dogs, take walks, and go sailing. She is also able to combine two other passions—horseback riding and spending time with her grown children—since her married daughter lives nearby, and they often ride together on the wooded trails near their home.

Ironically, Miralee, now the author of eight books, with many more on the way, never had a burning desire to write—at least more than her own memoirs for her children. So she was shocked when God called her to start writing after she turned fifty. To Miralee, writing is a ministry that she hopes will impact hearts, and she antic...more Miralee Ferrell and her husband, Allen, live on eleven acres in the beautiful Columbia River Gorge in southern Washington State, where they love to garden, play with their dogs, take walks, and go sailing. She is also able to combine two other passions—horseback riding and spending time with her grown children—since her married daughter lives nearby, and they often ride together on the wooded trails near their home.

Ironically, Miralee, now the author of eight books, with many more on the way, never had a burning desire to write—at least more than her own memoirs for her children. So she was shocked when God called her to start writing after she turned fifty. To Miralee, writing is a ministry that she hopes will impact hearts, and she anticipates how God will use each of her books to bless and change lives.

Book Purchase Link

Choose your favorite retailer from the list provided at the following link: http://www.dccebooks.com/products/wishing-on-buttercups


Author/Book Links Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MiraleeFerrell

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MiraleeFerrell

Website: http://www.miraleeferrell.com/

Relevant Twitter Handles
Miralee Ferrell: @MiraleeFerrell
David C Cook: @DavidCCook