The Dream Dress by Janice Hanna Thompson ~ Revell Blog Tour & Review

Lucie's Review:

 A lively adventure and look into the wedding business.

Gabi Delgadi has always admired Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, but she believes that Fred didn't appreciate Ginger as much as he should have, in fact Gabi has a pretty low opinion of men in general. Gabi is a gifted bridal dress designer, who's dream is to see her dresses gracing the women of Texas on their special day.
Enter Jordan Singer, reporter for Texas Bride Magazine, and witness to the "flying éclair disaster" that cost Gabi her job.
Can dreams still come true, even when everything seems to be falling apart?

Jordan was a great hero, with a commitment to telling the truth. He appreciates his family and wants to be a good father, I loved how he always was gracious and kind even when Gabi's grandma called him by accident, which was one of my favorite scenes.

The humor was one of my favorite parts about this book, as well as the cast of characters and the deepening friendships between the group of ladies from the previous books. There was a lot of good relationships between the characters, and Gabi's journey to faith was an integral part of the book. I loved how supportive her friends were, and how they respected her need to take time to understand and accept.

Overall this was a fantastic read, I loved how the author brought this book to life by including details about sewing. I especially loved Mimi Carmen, I could totally relate to her concern for her 1967 singer, as I learned to sew on a small black signer with a wheel and treadle that you had to pump! A fun, engaging read that is sure to put a smile on your face :)


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."

Princess Ever After by Rachel Hauck ~ Review & Litfuse Tour

 Lucie's Review: Princess Ever After is a light and lively read, about a down home Southern girl, Regina Beswick, who suddenly finds herself thrown into a world of royalty, because she is a princess!

This book engages right from the start, and moves at a fast pace, following Reggie on her journey through disbelief to grudging acceptance and finally embracing her new calling.

Tanner Burkhart, Hessenberg's Minister of Culture is there for her every step of the way.Tanner is always supportive of her, even though many people of Hessenberg are not pleased to have a new princess. I loved how he always believed that she was the person who could restore Hessenberg, and he helped her to believe it too!

There are many humorous moments in this book that brought a smile to my face.

Though this is a fairy tale it illustrated many spiritual truths. Reggie comes to realize that even though she has believed in God her entire life she has never had to rely on Him fully, as she must now. And Tanner has a dark secret in his past, that he believes is unforgivable.

This book is full of interesting side characters, but I just loved Reggie. She had the ability to turn just about anyone she met into a friend, Reggie is a heroine that you can cheer for right from the start.

Overall this was a terrific book, I loved every minute of it. This book was nearly impossible to put down, I fairly devoured in one huge helping! Ms. Hauck brings a lively spark to her writing, that makes the characters fairy jump off the page. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!







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: A Royal Wedding Book

Regina Beswick was born to be a princess.

But she's content to be a small-town girl, running a classic auto restoration shop, unaware a secret destiny awaits her. One that will leap from the pages of her grandmother's hand-painted book of fairytales.

Tanner Burkhardt is the stoic Minister of Culture for the Grand Duchy of Hessenberg. When he is tasked to retrieve the long-lost princess, he must overcome his fear of failure in order to secure his nation's future---and his own.

Yet lurking in the political shadows is a fierce opponent with sinister plans to abolish the throne forever. Overwhelmed with opposition, Regina must decide if she's destined to restore old cars or an ancient nation. Together---with a little divine intervention---Regina and Tanner discover the truth of her heritage and the healing power of true love.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/tk6Wt
Meet the author: Rachel Hauck is an award-winning, best selling author of critically acclaimed novels such as RITA nominated The Wedding Dress and RITA nominated Love Starts with Elle, part of the Lowcountry series, the Nashvegas series and the Songbird Novels penned with multi-platinum recording artist, Sara Evans. Their novel Softly and Tenderly, was one of Booklists 2011 Top Ten Inspirationals. A graduate of Ohio State University with a degree in Journalism, she worked in the corporate software world before planting her backside in an uncomfortable chair to write full time in 2004. Rachel serves on the Executive Board for American Christian Fiction Writers and leads worship at their annual conference. She is a mentor and book therapist at My Book Therapy, and conference speaker. Rachel writes from her two-story tower in an exceedingly more comfy chair. She is a huge Buckeyes football fan.

Learn more about Rachel at: http://rachelhauck.com or http://litfusegroup.com/author/rhauck

Where Courage Calls by Janette Oke & Laurel Oke Logan ~ Review & Litfuse Tour

My Review:

Beth Thatcher is determined to beat the odds and prove to her family that she can survive on her own as a teacher in a small coal mining town. Will her faith pull her through even when she has two very different men vying for her heart?

Where Courage Calls is a well written story, with classic values and an admirable heroine. Everything one could hope for from an Oke novel. I loved the timeless quality to the story, and writing which to me just confirms why Janette Oke has long been a household name in Christian Fiction and Romance.

One of my favorite things about this book was Beth's growing faith, and trust in God through the tough times, when it would have been easy to take things into her own hands.

This is an engaging tale from start to finish, and if you think that you don't need to read this book because you saw the movie, think again! The movie leaves off at what is only about 15% of the way through the book, so if you want to find out what happens...

Overall this was a terrific read, with a godly love story that I hope will continue in future books. I liked how the ending was both open and satisfying, so that even if there aren't any more new books for a while I won't die, but left me wanting more just the same! Reading this book brought me back to my younger years when all I read were Janette Oke books, with its classic coming of age tale mixed with sweet romance. I think it is so awesome that Ms. Oke's daughter is helping her to continue the legacy of great stories for all ages!


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:

Her courage and her heart will be tested in ways she never expected . . .
Beth Thatcher has spent her entire life in the safe, comfortable world of her family, her friends, and the social outings her father's wealth provides. But Beth is about to leave it all behind to accept a teaching position in the rugged foothills of western Canada. Inspired by her aunt Elizabeth, who went west to teach school several years ago, and gently encouraged by her father, Beth resolves to put her trust in God and bravely face any challenge that comes her way.

But the conditions in Coal Valley are even worse than she'd feared. A recent mining accident has left the town grieving and at the mercy of the mining company. The children have had very little prior education, and many of the locals don't even speak English. There isn't even a proper schoolhouse. In addition, Beth's heart is torn between two young men---both Mounties, one a lifelong friend and the other a kind, quiet man who comes to her aid more than once.

Despite the many challenges, Beth is determined to make a difference in the rustic frontier town. But when her sister visits from the East, reminding her of all the luxuries she's had to give up, will Beth decide to return to her privileged life as soon as the school year is over?

Purchase a copy and read an excerpt: http://ow.ly/tyWJH

About the Authors:

Janette Oke Celebrated for her significant contribution to the Christian book industry, Janette Oke is the recipient of numerous awards. Her novels have sold more than 30 million copies and are beloved by readers around the world. Janette lives with her husband, Edward, in Alberta, Canada.

Laurel Oke Logan is the daughter of Edward and Janette Oke, is the author of "Janette Oke: A Heart for the Prairie," as well as the novel "Dana's Valley," which she co-wrote with her mom. Laurel and her husband have six children and two sons-in-law and live near Indianapolis, Indiana.

 

Check out all of the other great stops on this tour: http://litfusegroup.com/author/joke

 

Janette Oke's newest book, Where Courage Calls (co-written with her daughter, Laurel Oke Logan), is receiving rave reviews. It is the companion story to Hallmark Channel's TV series When Calls the Heart, set in the Canadian west.

Janette and Laurel are celebrating with an iPad Mini giveaway and a Facebook author chat party on March 4th.

 

One winner will receive:

• iPad Mini
• Where Courage Calls by Janette Oke and Laurel Oke Logan
• When Calls the Heart DVD

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 4th. Winner will be announced at the Where Courage Calls Facebook Party on March 4th. Connect with Janette and Laurel for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more!

So grab your copy of Where Courage Calls and join Janette and Laurel on the evening of March 4th 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 by clicking JOIN on the event page. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 4th!

The Shepherd's Bride by Patricia Davids ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Lizzie Barkman and her sisters Clara, Greta, and Betsy have lived with their cold uncle Morris since their parents died in a buggy accident. Now their uncle is forcing Clara to marry their landlord who is old and not especially nice. Their only hope is their grandfather, Daadi Joe in Hope Springs. So Lizzie sneaks out in the middle of the night, and catches the bus to Hope Springs.
Daadi Joe refuses to get involved, and sends his co-worker Carl with Lizzie to make sure she makes it home.
Carl is not all that he appears and though he is dressed as an Englisher, he is actually Amish and being shunned.

Lizzie is industrious and determined. When she misses the bus back home she takes advantage of the extra time to try to win over her grandfather and find jobs for her sisters. Her faith blossoms in Hope Springs, as she is embraced by the community, yet her beliefs are challenged by her growing friendship with Carl.

Carl can't technically work for Joe, but he helps out when he can and they have an unspoken understanding. Joe really does care for Carl and hopes that he will return to his faith.

Overall this was a book with a lot going on, and explores the restoring of multiple relationships. A quick read with plenty of intriguing 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."

Born of Persuasion by Jessica Dotta ~ Review

My Review:
Julia Elliston has lived her life as an outcast, the daughter of the town atheist. But when her mother dies she finds herself thrust into a confusing world of mystery, murder, and intrigue. Who can she trust? And what of the man who at one time promised her his love, but then betrayed her by joining the church?

I was blown away by this sweeping and evocative regency novel. I had no idea going into this book, as I had heard both positive and negative reviews from many of my friends. But right now all I can say is, "Wow!"

Ms. Dotta weaves an intricate tale, with many twists that took me by surprise, and left me wanting more. The tension between the multiple characters was amazing, and I'm pretty sure that there were some scenes in there that made me stop breathing for a few moments. I loved Ms. Dotta's writing style that captured the tone of the story and era, telling the tale through Julia's eyes.

Julia is a somewhat sheltered young woman, thrust into a world that full of conspiracy, she is wonderfully human and flawed, yet endearing in her innocence. After everything that she goes through in this book it is not hard to understand the confusion and turmoil of her heart.

Edward was honorable, distant at times, and passionate in everything that he did. Not your typical white knight hero, but I admired his strong convictions and his struggle to find a balance between duty and love. Elizabeth and Henry were quite the couple, and actually the more I think about it the more I would like to read a book about them!

Overall, this was a thrilling book, hard to put down, and perfect for the Jane Eyre fan. I loved every bit of it, the characters were well crafted, and the story drew me in the more I read. I can't wait to read the next 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."

Winning Over the Wrangler by Linda Ford ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Brand is the quintessential cowboy. He's never met a horse he couldn't ride, and he never stays in one place too long. He sleeps out under the stars, eats his beans from a can, and his most loyal companion is his dog, Dawg. But he is a hero at heart, he more than shows his mettle when he rides a fresh broke horse in front of a stampede of wild mustangs to save a damsel in distress.
Sybil has a secret dream of being a writer, she has had several articles published under a pseudonym. Now her publisher wants a story about a cowboy and the perfect subject for that article has just ridden into her life.

Both Brand and Sybil are well developed, likable characters. Their interaction is natural and fits the story well. Brand is storing up memories before he moves on, but Brand leaving Sybil isn't in God's plan.

One of my favorite characters in the whole book is Dawg. He's a stray mutt whom Brand pick up along the trail. Dawg is a dog with a chip on his shoulder, who growls at almost everyone, until he meets Sybil who turns him into a tail wagging welcoming committee of friendliness.

Overall this was a great book full of action, suspense, romance, and faith, that kept me hooked the whole way through. Definitely a good 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."

Beowulf by Ronie Kendig ~ Review

Astor's Review:
Timbrel Hogan is a strong woman, with a shadowed past, the only man in her life is her loyal dog, Beowulf. She doesn't trust men.
Tony VanAllen is up for the challenge,  when he meets Timbrel he is taken by her strength, determination, and beauty. But their attraction may just prove fatal when ghost from Timbrel's past begin to appear, drawing an ever tightening circle, with plans of terrorism.

Ronie Kendig hits another home run with Beowulf a perfect combination of her signature compelling characters and non-stop action-packed plots.

I think my favorite character ended up being Beowulf, he had a fierce sense of loyalty, and a well timed sense of humor.

I didn't want to put down this book. The pages kept turning and each page kept me guessing how it would all turn out.

Overall, this was another fantastic read from Ms. Kendig with riveting, and compelling characters. Highly recommend. 


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."

Stealing the Preacher by Karen Witemeyer ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Crockett Archer is a tried and true Texas cowboy, but he is also an honest, honorable man of God who is forced to make the best of an unexpected situation,
Joanna Robbins is a young woman of faith who has been praying for a preacher to help her with her vision to bring life to an old church. And her father, who is a retired outlaw, is determined to help her with her dream even if it means kidnapping an innocent preacher off of a train!

Once I started reading this book I couldn't stop, and when I finished it, I read it again! It a fast paced adventure, that is both encouraging and engaging. I will admit that I had my doubts about how this story would work out after I read the back cover, but I shouldn't have worried. This ended up being my favorite book by Ms. Witemeyer to date! the interaction between Joanna and Crocket is nothing short of excellent.

Though one of my favorite relationships was that of the unexpected friendship between Crockett and Joanna's father, Silas. Humor was a big part of this story, and I couldn't keep a smile from my face the whole time while reading it.

Overall this was a terrific book, probably the best I have read in a long time! This book has it all, a authentic cowboy hero, a heroine who doesn't know she is beautiful, a doting father, and a funny sidekick. As well as action, romance, and drama. 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."

The Traitor's Wife by Allison Pataki ~ Review

My Review:

Clara Bell is brought to Philadelphia to become a lady's maid to Peggy Shippen, the woman who would become Benedict Arnold's infamous wife. Clara finds herself plunged into a world of grand parties and shifting loyalties, Clara must decides where she stands amidst a world of deceit and illusions.

I wasn't sure how I would feel about his book, as I knew where the story was going, and that it would not end well. But instead I found myself swept away by this riveting novel. I loved how the story was told through Clara's eyes, she brought a groundedness to the story making it relatable and fresh.

The setting is vivid and lush, and the characters, even the side characters are fully rounded. This quickly because a read that was hard to put down, the more I read the more immersed I became in the story.

Ms. Pataki did a fantastic job taking this story and giving it her own flair, I loved Clara as the young heroine.

Overall this was a wonderful engagingly treacherous read, that made for an amazing read. I would definitely recommend this book to lovers of historical fiction! I will definitely be on the lookout for Ms. Pataki's next 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."

Echoes of Mercy by Kim Vogel Sawyer ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

There is so much to love about this historical novel!

The heroine Carrie Lang, has a compassionate heart, and a desire to keep children from working their lives away in dangerous factories. Carrie takes a job in a candy factory so she can investigate their labor practices.
Ollie Moore is  undercover as a janitor in the factory, he has always believed that his family is helping the poorer families by giving their children work in the factory. But as he works alongside Carrie, and the children of the factory it begins to open his eyes to the lives of those around him and their plights.

This book explores life in Sinclair, Kansas 1907, from various perspectives, weaving together a colorful story that intrigued me from the very start. Ollie and Carrie meet early in the book and their friendship grows throughout, and though there is romance this book is mainly a historical novel that captures a snapshot of what life was like in the first few years after the turn of the century and the heroes and heroines that took it upon themselves to fight for a change.

The title points to one of the main themes of the book, and how one act of kindness caused ripples that intersected into multiple lives. Carrie also was able to challenge Ollie in his beliefs, and make him really think about every aspect of his life. Even helping to guide towards faith.

This book is well plotted, paced, and written though the format that the author chose to use sometimes makes the flow a bit choppy because you have to watch the headings so you know who's perspective the story is from.

The story is marked with sparks of humor, especially from Kesia Durham who runs the local café. And I loved Lettie, Lank, and Leslie, they really brought life and a face to the story.

Overall this is a heartwarming tale of mercy and how it can spread, causing ripples and touches many lives.




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."

Author's Website

Facebook

Twitter

More Info

Read Chapter One

Author Bio