Emma, Mr. Knightley & Chili-Slaw Dogs by Mary Jane Hathaway ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Caroline Ashley grew up in the South, a place flush with ancestral mansions, social restrictions, expectations, and well to do families, much akin to Regency Era England. Caroline's one escape was when she left for college and worked for the Washington Post. But upon the death of her father she returns home, ever the dutiful daughter, to again take part in Southern society along side her mother.

Brooks is Caroline's best friend, and a college professor with a large hound named Absalom. He's known her for years, and been and inside observer of her parent's difficult marriage. Both Brooks and Caroline have their own theories about love and marriage and decide to test their theories at the many parties they are required to attend.

But will they ever realize that love might not be as impossible for them as they may think?

Ms. Hathaway puts a modern spin on a classic, with this rendition of  Jane Austen's Emma. There were multiple parallel themes and characters to Emma and it was fun to try and figure out who was who, and how the book would differ from its inspiration. I especially loved the idea of a Jane Austen themed barn dance!

I think that this book does just what it sets out to do, the South taqking on Jane Austen classic and giving them a fresh new feel, giving Caroline an Emma-like modern flair, and making Brooks the epitome of the perfect Southern gentleman who wants to get out of friend zone. I loved the interaction between Brooks and Caroline, it was very well done and had glimmers of  Knightley and Emma's relationship.

There are many colorful characters, and humorous situations, as well as some misunderstandings. This was an enjoyable read, that kept my attention throughout and was very engaging. Definitely a book to check out!


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."

Truth Be Told by Carol Cox ~ Review

My Review:
Amelia Wagner returns to her hometown to find her father dying of cancer. After her father's death it is up to her to carry on his legacy of letting the truth be told through the newspaper that her father left her. While looking for a newsworthy story, Amelia discovers her father's research into what appears to be suspicious dealing involving a prominent business that is buying up random properties.

Ben Stone is an employee of Great Western, running from his calling he wants to make a living working for Great Western. But when Amelia comes poking around, he finds himself questioning everything he thought the company stood for, as well as making him think about the past he left behind.

An engaging tale from the early days of Arizona, filled with wonderful characters that will make you want to stay in Arizona for a while longer. Brimming with western adventure and wonderful side characters, one of my favorites being Jimmy, who always put a smile on my face.

I loved how important the truth and integrity were for Amelia and her father, and throughout the story there were themes of redemption and obedience, with comparisons to Jonah of the Bible.

Overall, this was a fantastic read, with wonderful characters that had me cheering for them all the way through. I loved Amelia and Ben's dedication to truth no matter what the cost. An entertaining read, with a good old fashion western mystery, and heroes that make you want to cheer for them all the way through, along with lessons of faith and the value of the truth. Loved it!

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 Hero in the Making by Laurie Kingery ~ Review

Lucie's Review:


Nate Bohannan is an unlikely hero, he came to Simpson Creek as a banjo player & sidekick for a medicine show. He has his dreams, non of which include staying very long in one place.
Ella Justiss is determined to make it on her own, she puts everything she owns into making a go of her cafe, but the only place she can afford is the backroom of a saloon, so when the saloon gets torn up, so do Ella's dreams.

Can two unlikely people with different dreams come together to find what they both need?

Ella and Nate are both likable characters, who want to move forward with their lives. Many Simpson Creek regulars reappear to help them on their way, including the Spinster's Club which is still alive and well though their focus has changed.

This book has plenty of great interaction between the characters, as well as humor, drama, action, and the occasional inevitable misunderstandings. I loved how both Ella and Nate grew in their faith and character. This was a delightfully engaging read that stands well on it's own, though it is part of a series. I especially loved the ending--but I can't tell you about that! ;)

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."

Her Montana Cowboy by Valerie Hansen ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

This is a fun introduction to what is sure to be a fantastic new series about a small town in Montana, called Jasper Gulch. The townspeople are are a mission to breath new life into the town with a huge centennial celebration.

Ryan Travers is a rodeo cowboy who rides the roughstock, and saves his money. This is the first time in a long time that he'll be in the same place for three weeks straight. He intends to leave right after the rodeo, but he meets a young woman, Julie, who causes him to rethink everything he thought he believed.

Ryan is a forthright and honest man, telling Julie from the start that he isn't the kind of guy that she is looking for.

Julie is the youngest daughter of a Montana cattle rancher, with her own business raising sheep for their wool and selling it online. She knows that Ryan doesn't think that he is good for her, but Julie is hoping she can change his mind.

A wonderful read from beginning to end, perfect for lovers of cowboy romances. There was plenty of great interaction between the characters, as well as lots of fun rodeo action. The town is a warm community full of colorful characters, I especially loved the dog, Cowboy Dan :)

A delightful and entertaining read, interwoven with themes of faith and forgiveness.


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."

For Such a Time by Kate Breslin ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

A compelling tale that accurately paints a picture of life in a concentration camp, as well as paralleling it with the plight of Esther of the Bible.

Stella is a brave young woman, half-Jewish by birth, she is sent to the Dachau concentration camp, where she earns favor and becomes the secretary the kommandant of another concentration camp, Aric.

So much more than a romance this book is heart wrenching, with rays of hope, and a poignant storyline. It is a realistic look at an intense time in history, with a full cast of touching characters. Though set in a dark time, this book shows both the defeats and the triumphs, as well as the indomitable human spirit.

Overall this was a fantastic read with many twists and turns, as well as an amazing action packed ending. This book truly is one that has it all, with strong themes of redemption and God's love in the presence of darkness. A powerful tale that calls us to learn from the past as well as shows how much can be accomplished by a few people willing to stand up and do something.


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."

Accidentally Married by Victorine E. Lieske ~ Review

My Review: 
An utterly charming read, filled with humor and terrific interaction, that had me laughing out loud.

Madison is an aspiring actress in need of a job, any job to pay the rent. Jared Jameson is a well to do business man with no time for romance, and a fake girlfriend that he desperately needs to make a reality in time for a family gathering. So Jared hires Madison to pose as his girlfriend, but one lie goes too far and suddenly they are "engaged" and getting married in two weeks to appease Jared's dying aunt. But as the wedding approaches Jared and Madison find themselves wishing the marriage was real...

I loved this book, fresh, and downright hilarious, it put a huge smile on my face and I couldn't stop reading. You may think you know what's going to happen or that you've read every "fake marriage romance" but you haven't read one as hilarious as Accidentally Married. 

Madison was delightful as a quick witted, down-on-her-luck aspiring actress. I loved her from the very beginning. Jared was a charming but commitment phobic hero, with a soft spot in his heart for his aunt. I especially loved Jared's family, notably his step-mom, Irene, who was one of my favorites!

Overall, this was a fantastic read that I loved more and more with each page turned, it had a sweet PG rated romance, great characters, witty and humorous dialogue that had me smiling all the way through. I would definitely recommend this book as a great read if you are looking for something fun and funny 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."

Stuck Together by Mary Connealy ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

A wild west adventure brimming with humor, action, unexpected twists, drama, and even a mud fight!

Vince is a strong and steady man, who is always there to help his friends, yet has never revealed much about himself up to this point. While Tina is a determined and headstrong woman, with a mission on her mind which is to close down the town bar. She is the only single woman in town, and has no shortage of suitors, and while she wants to dislike Vince, she begins to find that he is a man well worth his weight in gold.

This book caught my attention from the get go, it just jumped right on in and kept right on going. The interaction between Vince and Tina was great, but there was a whole lot more to the story than that. This book brings back all of the regulators, as well as their wives, who quickly befriend Tina.

I think that one of my favorite things about this story was the friendship between the guys, Vince, Jonas, Dare, and Luke, who shared a “bond that is closer than a brother.” They are there for each other, and don’t beat around the bush, they get right to the point.

I loved everything about this book, from the almost ghost town setting to the characters, who learned to let go and give their worries to God. There were also many terrific side characters. Definitely a western adventure that you won’t want to miss!

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."

Full Steam Ahead by Karen Witemeyer ~ Review

Lucie's Review: 

Nicole Renard is appalled at how weak her father has become since the last time she saw him, his illness makes itself even more apparent when the Jenkins Brothers raid them in the night looking for the famed Lafitte Dagger. After narrowly fighting off the Jenkins, Nicole’s father decides that they can’t keep going  the way they have been, and sends Nicole to New Orleans to find the next best thing to a son—a son-in-law.

But Nicole’s plans are derailed when she finds that the Jenkins have followed her, and are awaiting her arrival, so she takes a detour and finds herself in Liberty, Texas with only pennies to her name. So after scouting out the town for a job, she finds the only opening is for a secretary to a Mr. Thornton.

Darius Thornton is dismissive of Nicole, and her abilities, but she proves him wrong when she finds an error in his calculations that leaves him flabbergasted, and so the adventure begins!

I loved everything about his book, the plot, the pace, and the peek into steamboat history. The character were fantastic, Nicole was witty and determined, not easy cowed and willing to the see the man beneath Darius’ rough exterior.

The dialogue flowed naturally with plenty of give and take, and while there were the occasional miscommunications and obstacles, they persevered with compassion, faith, and a healthy dose of humor.

Darius’ transformation and journey was probably one of my favorite things about this book, added that special kind of Beauty and the Beast touch to this already completely delightful tale.

Overall, this book completely blew me away, and I loved every second of it! I would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a fantastic read. It has it all, a great hook, great interaction, colorful characters, as well as humor, and a hero and heroine well worth cheering for. 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."

The Word Changers by Ashlee Willis ~ Review

My Review:

Posey’s world is falling apart, her parents are separating, and there is nothing she can do about it. So she escapes into the pages of a book finding herself lost in the plot in a way that she never could have ever imagined! Pulled into the story’s plot by Falak, an owl who is not all that he seems, Posey is forced to take on the role of the princess, dutifully playing her role. But all is far from right in the kingdom, and some have seen fit to take its plot into their own hands, can Posey and her new friend Kyran rescue the kingdom from a plot that has strayed from its Author?

What a delightful twist on the classic fairy tales! I loved the premise behind this story; that a girl actually get swept away into the book that she is reading. Isn’t that just every reader’s dream?

Posey is a bright and inquisitive girl, unafraid to ask the questions that others fear. She is also discerning, as well as adventurous. Kyran was a straightforward, yet at times mysterious hero, who coped remarkably well with the revelations that were thrown his way.

Overall, this was a fun read full of adventure, and I believe it would be especially great for ages 9-14. There was adventure, mystery, tough choices to make, and mystical animals such as centaurs, mermaids, talking owls, and more. Ms. Willis did and absolutely wonderful job with this allegory of God’s ever-present, never ending love, as well as His sovereignty and our free will. A terrific book for middle grade readers, as well as families, who share a love of reading, and dream of joining their heroes within the pages of a 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."

Ashton Park by Murray Pura ~ Review

 My Review:

A sweeping family saga encompassing the years of transition, and changing times that ushered in the 1920's.

Set during and after WWI this book follows the seven children of Sir William and Lady Elizabeth, Edward, Catherine, Kipp, Robbie, Emma, Libby, and Victoria, as they weather the storms of life and find love both at Ashton Park and abroad.

At first I will admit that it was a bit confusing to keep track of all of the characters, especially which ones were Danforth siblings, but in no time at all it I was fully immersed into their world. I know this comparison is fairly common, but I cannot help but say that if you are a fan of Downton Abbey, you will absolutely love Ashton Park!

I loved how this book followed all of the siblings through the years, as they fell in love and had children, and lost the loved ones dear to them, and while they were not always together, their stories intertwined and crossed, bringing them always home to Ashton Park. Over the course of the book I came to care for all of the siblings, as well as their extended family, I think that one of my favorite couples was Harrison and Aunt Holly!

Overall, a wonderful family saga that is both warm and compelling, yet true to the times and also tells of the history surrounding the storylines. I just started the sequel Beneath the Dover Sky  and can't put it down. 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."