Single Dad Cowboy by Brenda Minton ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Harmony Cross has come back to Dawson to figure out who she is now after the accident and the pain pills that she was addicted to. When she was young her happiest memories were of Dawson, where her family would spend their summers, it's also where she met Dylan Cooper.

Dylan is busy raising Cash and Callie, since he became their guardian when their mother died.

When Harmony falls in love with a wild horse, they strike up a deal. Dylan will help her with the horse, if she helps him with the kids, with the added bonus that it will keep the town matchmakers quiet.

Dylan is a likable hero, plus he's a cowboy! He willingly and unselfishly took on the responsibility of raising two girls who were not his own. He is determined and knows what he wants.

Harmony is the one who grow the most through this journey. She's starting over again, learning to cope with her past and opening up again. I loved how she reached out the people at the old folks home and learned to crochet!

I enjoyed this book from beginning to end. It has characters that you can root for the whole way through, and side characters full of color, as well as the whole Cooper clan. It engages quickly and carries an upbeat rhythm throughout, even though it deals with tough subjects. This is the final Cooper Creek novel, and though I'm sad to see their story end, I'm glad that it ends happily!

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 Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn by Lori Benton ~ Review

My Review:

From beginning to end this was a riveting adventure, filled with mystery, romance, and thrilling edge-of-your-seat adventure!

Tamsen is a young woman stuck in a loveless arranged marriage, set up by her ruthless step-father. When Tamsen is given the chance to escape, she takes it, entrusting her safety to the rough mountain man, Jesse Bird.

Jesse Bird has lived with his adoptive father Cade for years, living off the land, never knowing who he was or where he came from.

Together will they be able to evade the people who would tear them apart?

This book is everything that you could every want from a novel, an intriguing historical setting, with compelling characters, romance, and high stakes. I didn't want to put this book down! Jesse and Tamsen are heartfelt heroes, with strong faith and a will to fight for what is right. One of my favorite characters in this book was Cade. I loved how he only spoke when he had something to say, and his expressions and body language were so expressive.

The setting of this novel was so well researched, before reading this book I hadn't heard anything about the state of Franklin, which surprised me, because I consider my knowledge of history to be pretty good. The descriptions were precise, yet detailed weaving themselves into the fabric of the story.

Overall, this was a fantastic book, full of rich history, that tells a poignant tale of love in a young America. This story drew me in from the very first page, and kept my attention throughout, I could scarcely put it down. Tamsen was an admirable heroine who grew so much over the course of the book, as a young woman, and in her faith. This is definitely one of my favorite books of 2014, I cannot recommend it enough. Someone asked me what I was reading the other day, and I talked for 15 minutes non-stop about this book! Simply fantastic!


Thank you to Ms. Benton who graciously gave me a copy of this wonderful book, for review purposes.

 

What Follows After by Dan Walsh ~ Review

My Review:

What Follows After tells the sensitive tale of a fragmented family in the 1950's. Scott and Gina have been separated for 10 months, yet hardly anyone knows about it, they and their two sons, Colt and Timmy pretend that nothing has changed, that everything is OK. But when Colt and Timmy's plan to bring their parents together goes tragically wrong, when the brothers are separated. Will this family have the faith to pull through?

Dan Walsh returns with a solo novel, that is an unexpected kind of family drama, blending the pain of separation with the mystery of a kidnapping. This book was in many ways different from Mr. Walsh's previous books, but no less hard hitting.

This book explores the heartaches and strong ties of family, especially in tough times. In also shows the stark differences in society and expectations of family during the 1950's in comparison to today.

Overall, this was a well written book, that at times felt a bit slow paced, but nonetheless fantastic story-telling. A simplistically complex novel that will tug your heartstrings in more than a few directions.

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."

Sing for Me by Karen Halvorsen Schreck ~ Review

My Review:
A captivating tale set against tumultuous times.

Rose Sorenson is a hardworking young woman who longs for the sounds and music of the late night jazz clubs. The Danish Baptist Church she attends, looks down on the worldly songs that are sung on the radio and in the clubs, but Rose finds herself drawn to them and their beauty.
When Rose gets the chance to sing for a band called The Chess Men, she has a choice to make between her family's expectations and the song in her heart.

I loved the style of this novel, I thought it fit the story and the setting very well, evoking the emotion and forbidden love, showing a part of history that we don't necessarily hear much about. Rose was a strong, yet vulnerable heroine, who loved her family, especially her sister. Theo was a gallant, and selfless hero, who knew that the way he was being treated wasn't right, but he dared to dream of a brighter future.

I think that my favorite character was Sophy, because she could say so much without really saying anything. I loved her delight in the small things, and how she truly wanted the very best for her sister.

This is an evocative novel set in the year 1937, the tail end of the Great Depression, and the beginning of the troubles leading to WWII, the country is recovering, but many are irreparably changed by the long years of hardship.

Overall, this was a fantastic book that kept my eyes glued to the pages, even when I knew I had something else that I should have been doing instead! I loved the characters and the subtly of their interactions and emotions, little movements and expressions spoke volumes. In a way this was a sort of coming-of-age story, and Rose was a brave young woman willing to chart a new and dangerous course at the dawning of a new era. I loved how the book showed how God gives us different gifts, so that he can use us in different ways. Rose wasn't meant to walk the same path as her peers and parents before her, but make her own way by following her calling.

 I will definitely be on the look out for the next book from Ms. Schreck!



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."

Claiming Mariah by Pam Hillman ~ Litfuse Tour & Review

Lucie's review:

This book is so good that I couldn't put it down! It drew me in right from the beginning, with a fast paced plot that kept me hooked. I loved the Wyoming setting, and the wonderful characters who found a place in my heart. Definitely a book I will be adding to my favorites shelf.

Slade Donovan is a hardworking cowboy, who had a rough childhood and is determined to right a wrong. He is decisive and compassionate, always on the lookout for his younger brother, Buck.

Mariah has a way with stray cats, as well as stray people. She is sensitive to Buck's shyness but never hesitates to come to his defense. Mariah was my favorite character, I loved how she didn't despair but made the best of every situation, reaching out to others and not closing herself off to others.

I also loved Mariah's grandmother, who was not only a fun character, but often a sage voice of wisdom.

I loved this book from the very first page to the last one, it does exactly what a western historical romance should do. It swept me back in time, with a hero and heroine that I could empathize with and cheer for all the way. It is superbly written in a style that flows and engages with a well developed cast of characters. I loved everything about this book, and I could not recommend it more. I've added it to my top ten favorite books of all time list :D



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:

After her father's death, Mariah Malone sends a letter that will forever alter the lives of her family. When Slade Donovan, strong willed and eager for vengeance, shows up on her front porch, Mariah is not ready to hear his truths: her father's farm, the only home she's ever known, was bought with stolen gold. With Slade ready to collect his father's rightful claim and force Mariah and her family out on the streets, Mariah must turn to God for guidance. Though Mr. Frederick Cooper, a local landowner, promises to answer her financial woes if she agrees to be his bride, Mariah finds herself drawn instead to the angry young man demanding her home.

With the ranch now under Slade's careful eye, he unearths more than he ever imagined as a devious plot of thievery, betrayal, and murder threatens the well-being of the ranch, endangering those who hold it dear. As the days dwindle until the rest of the Donovan clan arrives at the Lazy M ranch, Mariah and Slade must rise above the resentment of their fathers and see their true feelings before greed changes their futures forever.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/uPDB6

About the Author: Pam Hillman was born and raised on a dairy farm in Mississippi and spent her teenage years perched on the seat of a tractor raking hay. In those days, her daddy couldn't afford two cab tractors with air conditioning and a radio, so Pam drove the Allis Chalmers 110. Even when her daddy asked her if she wanted to bale hay, she told him she didn't mind raking. Raking hay doesn't take much thought so Pam spent her time working on her tan and making up stories in her head. Now, that's the kind of life every girl should dream of!

Learn more about Pam at: http://www.pamhillman.com

 

Check out all of the other great tours here: http://litfusegroup.com/author/phillman

 

A June Bride by Marybeth Whalen ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Wynne Hardy has just broken up with her long-time boyfriend, and is just about to give the "key to her heart" to someone new on the set of a reality show called the "Rejection Connection."

Wynne picked Andy Baker because she thought he was the most real. But as their fairy tale wedding grows nearer and nearer, she finds herself less excited by the thought of actually marrying Andy. Can Wynne break free from the web she is trapped in?

When Wynne started on the show her faith was an important part of her life, but now she is too busy to pray and isn't sure where her fiancé stands on spiritual matters. This is the story of Wynne and how she fins her way back home to her faith.

Overall this was interesting story, and would be especially great for fans of The Bachelor or Bachelorette-like TV shows. There was plenty of drama, the faith was a big part of 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."

Rainy Day Dreams by Lori Copeland and Virginia Smith ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

A leisurely stroll through Seattle's history, with a mix of both real and fictional characters. This book takes readers back to Seattle 4 years after the close of the last book, A Bride for Noah.

Katherine's father arranges for her to go to Seattle to work for a distant cousin. Katherine didn't want to come to Seattle and she plan to leave when the boat does, but there is no room for her so she is forced to stay in Seattle for a while.

One of the best things about this book is how welcoming Evie and Louisa are to Katherine, and become her fast friends. They encourage her to stay and help pave the way for her to feel at home.

Jason is one man in Seattle who is not happy that Katherine is there. He figures that they only reason a woman would come to a place with so few women and plenty of men, is to find a husband. And Jason is determined not to be that man.

There wasn't much interaction between Jason and Katherine, mostly because Jason was kind of avoiding  her, but he did a good job of making up for lost time once he'd figured it out.

Overall, this was novel filled with historical insight into the difficulties faced by the early settlers of Seattle, as well as the tensions. Great for people who like history mixed with a sweet romance.

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."

Circle of Spies by Roseanna M. White ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Full of action and suspense, and many multi-faceted characters and an intriguing plot. It took awhile at first to reacquaint myself with the characters, and what had happened between books, but after a few chapters I was hooked.

Thaddeus Lane was one of my favorite characters, he is now in his eighties, still active in the Culpers and the grandfather of Marietta. He is a man of faith and sensitivity to the Spirit's moving, and he comes to Mari's aid more than once.

Marietta Hughes is a beautiful widow, who knows how to use her God-given gifts to her advantage. She is headstrong and determined to do things her own way.

Slade Osborne was probably the hardest to read, he has his secrets and he keeps them well. Slade is and enigmatic hero, who is honorable to the core.

This story takes place in Baltimore during the Civil War. The setting is realistic and gives off a real feel for the times. Many parts of the story are based on actual history, which I found intriguing.

I appreciated the reverence for God in this book and the way that their faith was woven into the story. This is a well written read, with a multi-layered plot full of twists and turns. This book had it all, action, suspense, rich history, and romance, with plenty of great interactions between the characters. Definitely a book well worth the 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."

Sincerely Yours by Jane Kirkpatrick, Amanda Cabot, Laurie Alice Eakes, and Ann Shorey ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

In this collection short stories each young woman receives a letter that changes the course of their lives.

In Moonlight Promise Camilla journeys to America from England, and struggles to make her way to Albany to meet her friend who has offered her a job.

Merrie Bently in Lessons in Love, writes articles for Kipler's Home Weekly under a pseudonym. So when the editor sends her a letter asking to meet with her in person, Merrie must find a Mr. Bently!

In One Little Word, Lorraine Caldwell hasn't heard from her brother in 2 years, so when she hears from him, she jumps at the chance of reconnecting with him. But reaching her destination is just the beginning.

In Saving Grace, Grace Holloway receives a disturbing letter, from eight-year-old Caroline, asking her to bring Caroline's mother home. It isn't easy, but Grace has a plan.

Each of these stories has an honorable hero who comes to their rescue, and the 1st and last stories were very dramatic. One Little Word was my favorite of the bunch, because I loved the idea of Lorraine and Jonah working together to make Jonah's dreams come true.

Each of the stories was well written and showed a great attention to  detail. I loved how each of the stories was both engaging and encouraging with wonderful themes of faith hope and love. A very enjoyable 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."

Dancing with Fireflies by Denise Hunter ~ Litfuse Tour & Review

Lucie's Review:
This was not an easy book to read, nor and easy review to write. Dancing with Fireflies carries a mature theme, with plenty of mixed emotions, with heart-wrenching choices, yet glimmers of hope shine through.

Daniel Dawson has been in love with Jade McKinley for years, but he's been afraid to tell her for fear of losing their easy friendship.

Jade returns to Chapel Springs, but doesn't tell her family the reason for her return. Jade decides that the best way to fix everything is to get married, but she never wants to fall in love again. She tells Daniel that she wants a marriage of convenience, and that she wants him to find someone for her to marry. But perhaps the love she was looking for was there all along...

The characters are well developed, and I felt like I got to know them and what made them tick, as well as the fears that haunted them. There was good dialogue between Daniel and Jade, which I thought was done very realistically with texting, etc.

If you have read the previous book in the series you may recognize Jade's family, the McKinley's. there was a good faith track, and Jade's mom was great.

Daniel was an excellent hero, and Jade did have reasons for most of her angst, yet she did bring some of it upon herself.

Overall, this was kind of a hard book to read, with all that was going on, nothing seemed to be going right. But I did end up enjoying the book, through it all. A great emotional 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."

About the book: A Chapel Springs Romance

Jade returns home to Chapel Springs after years of protecting her fragile heart. Then along comes Daniel, making her long to dance again.

Creative and complicated, Jade McKinley felt like a weed in a rose garden growing up in Chapel Springs. When she left, she thought she'd never look back. But now, pregnant, alone, and broke, she has no other choice but to return.

The mayor of Chapel Springs, Daniel Dawson, has been an honorary member of the McKinley family for years. While his own home life was almost non-existent, Daniel fit right into the boisterous McKinley family. He's loved Jade for years, but she always saw him as a big brother. Now that she's back, his feelings are stronger than ever.

As Jade attempts to settle in, nothing feels right. God seems far away, she's hiding secrets from her family, and she's strangely attracted to the man who's always called her "squirt." Finding her way home may prove more difficult than she imagined.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/uJ6OD

About the Author: Denise Hunter is an internationally published best-selling author. Her books have won The Holt Medallion Award, The Reader's Choice Award, The Foreword Book of the Year Award, and was a RITA finalist. In 1996, inspired by the death of her grandfather, Denise began her first book, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her husband says he inspires all of her romantic stories, but Denise insists a good imagination helps, too. When Denise isn't writing, she's busy raising three heroes-in-the-making with her husband.

Learn more about Denise at: http://www.denisehunterbooks.com

Check out all of the other great stops on this tour!

http://litfusegroup.com/author/dhunter

 

 

Don't miss Denise Hunter's latest Chapel Springs Romance, Dancing with Fireflies. Reviewers have already labeled Dancing with Fireflies "swoon-worthy" and "the perfect love story." 

Join Denise in celebrating the release of her new book by entering her Kindle HDX giveaway and RSVPing for her April 10th Facebook party.

One winner will receive:

• A brand new Kindle Fire HDX
• Dancing with Fireflies and Barefoot Summer by Denise Hunter

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 10th. Winner will be announced at the Dancing with Fireflies Facebook Party on April 10th. Connect with Denise for an evening of prizes, book chat, and an exclusive look at the next book in the series.

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 10th!