Safe Haven by Anna Schmidt ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

This book is an in depth look at an interesting event in history during WWII, that happen not in Europe but on American soil. President Roosevelt invited a boat of refugees to be his guests for the duration of the war under two conditions. 1. They would stay at Fort Ontario (a place surrounded by a barbed wire topped fence). 2. And they had to sign a form promising to return home after the war.

Franz, Ilse, and Liesl find themselves stuck in Fort Ontario. Beth's parent's send her brother Theo Bridgewater, to help them. While Edwin Bonner sends Suzanne Randolf to New York to write a series of stories on the refugees.

This book tells the tale of people without a country to call home, as they struggled to make a new life for themselves and rebuild their lives after the war.

There were multiple side stories and characters who brought this trying time to life. This book brings back many of the characters from the previous books, showing their strengths and resilience in the face of hardship. One of my favorite characters was Ilse, who really became a stronger person and better mother over the course of her ordeal.

Overall, this was a highly historical novel that showed much of the human condition and how hard times can bring people together. I found it very encouraging that there were some Americans who fought for the refugees to be allowed to stay in America, and really stood up for them. I will admit that this was a tough book to read because much of it was based on fact, and what had really happened during that time. I learned so much from this book about the times and the history.


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, Lies, and the Single Woman by Allison K. Flexer ~ Review

My Review: 

Truth, Lies, and the Single Woman is different from your typical relationship/singles book, it isn't about how to find the perfect person, or how to be the perfect person, or even about waiting for him to come around, and maybe best of all it isn't written by someone who is married.

I can't tell you how many books I read about relationships and waiting for your future husband to show up when I was a teenager and all of the books were written by people who had been married for years or who had married right out of college or high school. And I honestly couldn't relate to that.

But this book is different, in a good way. One of my favorite things about this book is that it talks about how being single is not a bad thing. It doesn't make you less of a person, and while I know this sometimes it is great to have a reminder with great biblical examples, like how Paul talked at length about how being single is actually preferable! And also don't wait to pursue your goals or follow God until you are married, do it now.

So many books I've read in the past are about waiting for The One, and biding your time until you find them. But is that really a realistic thing to tell people? Honestly, I've always kind of had the mindset that I'm not gonna sit on my behind waiting for what may or may not happen, but after reading this book I felt reaffirmed in that mindset. Because it's so easy to buy into the lies, and put your life on hold. But though this book may seem simple to most, and we say we know the lies and that they aren't true, there is something powerful in reading or hearing the truth about these subjects from someone else who has been through it too.

As I read through this book, I was encouraged and affirmed in my worth and my choices. And while not all of these lies applied to me personally, I could relate. If I could give this book to every Christian single (hopefully they wouldn't be offended), I would definitely do it. Ms. Flexer speaks honestly about the struggles and temptations to believe the lies like, "Because no one has chosen me, I'm not valuable." But she also exposes the truth, with scripture and experience. 

This is definitely a book that I would recommend. I enjoyed it immensely!

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."

Miracle in a Dry Creek by Sarah Loudin Thomas ~ CFBA Tour & Review

Lucie's Review: 

Set in the small town of Wise, West Virginia, a place where everyone knows everyone else's business and what they don't know they make up.
Perla grew up in Wise, but her family moved away when she was young. Now grown, she's come back to live with her Aunt Delilah and Uncle Robert, along with her young daughter, Sadie. Which, as expected, causes plenty of speculation among the town folk of Wise...

This is a lovely Appalachian tale, set during the Depression, that reminded me of the Waltons, especially because of the Talbot sisters, Angie and Liza, who reminded me of the Baldwin sisters.

I liked how this was in many ways more of a story about the whole town and the people and how they reacted to the events around them.

Casewell, was a character who took a while to come around, but by the end was one of my very favorite characters and there is some great dialogue between Perla and Casewell.

This story is a good example of the human tendency to judge others and jump to conclusions, as well as the powerful of forgiveness.

Overall, a tale with a whole host of characters, with a setting that fits the story perfectly, with touches of humor and the harshness of the drought. Written in a an easy to read style, with a strong,  tenderhearted heroine, with a beautiful gift, Miracle in a Dry Season is a lovely, and touching 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."

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Miracle in a Dry Season Bethany House Publishers (August 5, 2014) by Sarah Loudin Thomas

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Sarah Loudin Thomas grew up on a 100-acre farm in French Creek, WV, the seventh generation to live there. Her Christian fiction is set in West Virginia and celebrates the people, the land, and the heritage of Appalachia. Her first novel, Miracle in a Dry Season, releases August 2014 through Bethany House. Sarah is represented by Wendy Lawton of Books & Such Literary Agency.

A graduate of Coastal Carolina University in Conway, SC, Sarah once dreamed of being a marine scientist. But her love for words won out and she has spent much of her career in public relations and marketing. She currently oversees fundraising and communications for a Christian children’s home in Black Mountain, NC.

Sarah and her husband Jim live in the mountains of Western North Carolina with Thistle–the canine equivalent to a personal trainer pushing them to hike, run, and throw sticks. Sarah is active in her local church and enjoys cooking and–you guessed it–reading.

ABOUT THE BOOK

In a Drought, It's the Darkest Cloud

That Brings Hope

It's 1954 and Perla Long's arrival in the sleepy town of Wise, West Virginia, was supposed to go unnoticed. She just wants a quiet, safe place for her and her daughter, Sadie, where the mistakes of her past can stay hidden. But then drought comes to Wise, and Perla is pulled into the turmoil of a town desperately in need of a miracle.

Casewell Phillips has resigned himself to life as a bachelor. . .until he meets Perla. She's everything he's sought in a woman, but he can't get past the sense that she's hiding something. As the drought worsens, Perla's unique gift divides the town in two, bringing both gratitude and condemnation, and placing the pair in the middle of a storm of anger and forgiveness, fear and faith.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Miracle in a Dry Season, go HERE.

His Most Suitable Bride by Renee Ryan ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Mrs. Singletary is up to her old tricks again, making matches for her new friend and companion, Callie Mitchell. Callie dresses in drab clothing, with her hair pulled tightly back, she doesn't like to stand out in, she'd rather blend in and be invisible. But Mrs. Singletary will have none of that, and gives Callie a makeover.
Reese Bennett is Mrs. Singletary's attorney, and she offer to find him the perfect wife, a plan to which Reese reluctantly agrees to. Reese want a family, but he doesn't want to fall in love.
But Mrs. Singletary has plans to change both Reese's and Callie's minds.

This was a fun and enjoyable read, with an engaging storyline, great characters, great dialogue and several plot twists. This book has a host of colorful characters, including all the folks at Charity House and the indomitable Mrs. Singletary.

Both Reese and Callie are memorable characters, with journeys of faith an confidence. They have to overcome obstacles in their lives, as well as stumbling blocks of the past.

Overall, this was a fun read with touches of humor, and great interaction between the characters. I also enjoyed coming back to Charity House, and Mrs. Singletary and her match making ways! A lovely 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."

The Identical Soundtrack Sampler ~ Review + Giveaway

My Review:

When I received an invitation to review this music soundtrack, I knew I couldn't resist. This soundtrack sampler contains 12 out of the 20 songs featured in the movie, with sounds from classic Rock n' Roll, to Jazz, Blues, Disco,Classical, and even Bluegrass!

I was surprised at how diverse the music on the soundtrack was, I mean from the promotional art I was expecting the songs that were more "Elvis-sounding" and the Classical theme, but I was surprised by the Disco and Bluegrass.

While I will willing admit that there were many songs on this soundtrack that weren't my personal style, I say that it was an enjoyable listen. There was no objectionable content, and the lyrics were clean.

Overall, a great sneak peek into an upcoming movie!



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 film:

The IDENTICAL tells the compelling story of twin brothers unknowingly separated at birth during the Great Depression. DREXEL HEMSLEY becomes an iconic 50’s rock ’n’ roll star, while RYAN WADE (Blake Rayne) struggles to balance his love for music and pleasing his father. The Reverend Wade (Ray Liotta) and his wife (Ashley Judd) are sure their adopted son has been gifted and called by God to be a preacher. But Ryan challenges his parent’s vision for his life, and unflinchingly chooses to launch his own music career with his best friend (Seth Green). Encouraged by his wife (Erin Cottrell) and employer (Joe Pantoliano), Ryan embarks on an unpredictable, provocative path - performing the legendary music of Drecel Hemsley in sold out venues all across the country. 

As the brothers destinies tragically collide, Ryan discovers that Drexel is his identical twin which leads him to question everything he’s ever believed about God, family, and his own identity.

About the Soundtrack Sampler:

THE IDENTICAL ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE SOUNDTRACK SAMPLER features 12 of the 20 original songs by Jerry Marcellino and Yochanan Marcellino from the film. Including “Your Love’s Keepin’ Me Tonight,” “City Lights,” “Angel of Mine,” “Everybody Knows It” and “Nashville Tonight."

Check out the official movie website here: http://theidenticalmovie.com

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

Be sure to share the trailer, which can be found here: http://youtu.be/MxWVXHatVDA

And if you’re interested in getting some friends together to see THE IDENTICAL, we have a group ticket opportunity http://seatzy.com/main/bulkrequest/the-identical

Coming to theaters September 5th.

Giveaway of The Identical Soundtrack Sampler. Open to US residents only. Ends September 6th.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Deputy's New Family by Jenna Mindel ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Beth Ryken is a second grade teacher who loves her job and cares about her students. But her newest student, Corey Grey tugs at her heart more than most.
Beth's mother lives right across from the school, so she offers to watch Corey after school so Beth can help him with his reading and get to know his handsome father.
When Beth finds out about his job, Nick Grey understands her hesitancy. But he committed to helping Corey improve in school an getting back to his faith.
Will he be able to win Beth's heart?

This was a sweet story, with great side characters and interaction between the main characters. It was fast moving and easy to read, with an upbeat lively feel to it. It is a story that celebrates family and moving on from hurts of the past that make it hard to trust God.

I loved Beth's mom, and the adorable dog that followed Corey around everywhere.

Overall, a well written story with wonderfully well developed characters. And definitely a great dramatic ending that I can't tell you about! Definitely a book I would 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."

A Bouquet of Love by Janice Hanna Thompson ~ Review

Lucie's Review: 


A boisterous, laugh out loud funny return to Galveston Island, with a brand new family. The Pappas have just moved to town from California and are opening a Greek restaurant right across from Parma John's the restaurant owned by the Rossi's. An immediate rivalry grows between the two families, especially between the two fathers.

Cassia Pappas is used to her father's over the top marketing schemes, but she's having more than a little trouble viewing the Rossi's as the enemy. It seems like everyone she meets is either a Rossi or married to one and they are all so nice and welcoming!

But the one who makes the biggest impression on Cassia is Alex Rigas, the handsome half-Greek, all cowboy, who appreciates the beauty in flowers. And is not without his Rossi connections as well.

Can Alex and Cassia ever be more than friends despite the rivalry between their loved ones?

An utterly delightful read, filled with humor, and sweet romance. Terrific characters, I loved the friendships between the various characters the most, and how kind they were to Cassia. Especially Bella and Marcella who were quick to welcome Cassia.

This book does s terrific job of making you feel like you are right there amidst the craziness and fun.

Overall, this is a fun read with a full cast of characters, many of which you may recognize from previous books in the series. Lots of lively dialogue, many laughs, and 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."

In Perfect Time by Sarah Sundin ~ Reveiw

My Review:

Flight nurse Lt. Kay Jobson has ever had trouble charming men, keeping her well balanced pyramid of men on a string is her forte. None are immune to her charms, that is, except for the bible-thumping pilot Roger Cooper. In fact, Roger seems to turn tail and run the other way when ever he sees her coming.
But as the war rages they are brought together time and again. Can Roger helps heal the hurts from Kay's past and help her understand a loving God?


I've been waiting to read Kay's story for a long time, I had high hopes, and this book delivered. In this book we get to see a more vulnerable side of Kay, her struggles, fears, and concerns. And she grows so much over the course of this book.

I liked Roger from the start, an All-American boy who understands Kay, better than she could have ever imagined. Plus, he is really great with children, I loved how the little Indian boys called him Raji :)

Overall, this was a terrific installment to a fantastic series. And I loved how this story overlapped with Mellie and Georgie's stories as they supported Kay, and were amazing friends to her. Well, written  and engaging this is definitely a series that I would heartily 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."

Captured by Love by Jody Hedlund ~ Review

My Review:

Ms. Hedlund just gets better with every new book, and this book is no exception!

Angelique long for safety, for security against the changing temperaments of her step-father and his new wife, the hunger, and the British soldiers that wring the colonists dry.
When her childhood friend, Pierre Durant comes back to Michilimackinac Island, Angelique is hurt and confused. But as their friendship begins to turn into something more, Angelique finds herself even more confused as she has already promised herself to Pierre's brother, Jean.
How can Angelique stay true to her promise when her heart longs to be somewhere else?

A well told story, set on Michilimackinac Island during the war of 1812, shows the struggles faced by the families stuck between the British and American forces, with tensions high. I can honestly say that I don't think I ever thought about places like Michilimackinac before and what they went through during the war, but Ms. Hedlund really brought the backwoods community/army barracks setting to life, and I can tll that she put a lot of research into making it so realistic.

Angelique was a heroine that I liked from the very start, she was beautiful inside and out, humble and hard working, I loved how she put the needs of Miriam before her own. She was bright, yet vulnerable, and heroine that had me cheering for her from the very beginning.

Pierre was a rakishly handsome trapper, hard to read at times, yet with a heart of gold.

Overall, this was a fantastic read, and quite possibly my favorite from Ms. Hedlund yet! The characters and their situations were well defined, and I was swept up into the story, not wanting to put it down. Compelling, and action packed, with great romantic tension, this is not a book that you will want to miss! Highly recommend.


Thank so much Ms. Hedlund for letting me read and review your wonderful book!

Prelude for a Lord by Camille Elliot ~ Review

Lucie's Review:  Spellbinding!!!

I was quickly drawn into the story and I couldn't put it down!

Lady Alethea Sutherton is a heroine that is very easy to connect with, she is smart, strong, and talented. Alethea plays the violin, an instrument that is socially unacceptable for a woman to play in 1810. But this is not just any violin, it is the instrument left to her by her teacher, mentor, and friend, Lady Arkright when she died.
When someone tries to buy and then steal the violin, Alethea's aunt asks a friend for help, who in turn enlists the assistance of Lord Dommick.
Dommick is not without problems of his own, such as protecting his sister Clare from a treacherous suitor, and making sure that her season is a success. But after meeting Alethea, he is drawn to the mystery of the violin...

There is so much to love about this book. The setting is realistic, and gives a real feel for the social restrictions and interactions of life in Bath. The dialogue was so well, not only engaging but also perfectly appropriate for the era.

I loved the wide array of side characters who added color and dimension to the plot, especially the camaraderie between Domick and his friends Ian and Raven. Also the relationship between Alethea and her half-sister, Lucy.

The mystery, was well done, and compelling, also fitting erfectly with the faith aspects of this wonderful read!

This is the best regency novel that I have read in a while. It perfectly combines mystery, suspense, romance, action, interaction, poignancy, along with touches of humor. And there is so much more that I haven't even mentioned in in this review! 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."