Updates & Merry Christmas!

Hello there! I know I haven't been blogging a whole a lot recently, and part of that is due to finals and boards coming up this Tuesday. I've been keeping busy and making plans for some great Christmas break fun. I am hoping to be able to post many of the reviews from books I or my mother have read recently when my schedule clears up a bit. You can bet your boots that I'm definitely counting down the days till break! 

So what have I been doing? Well, just this week I finished up with this semesters clinicals and took an exam and one final. I'm studying for my last final on Tuesday and my board exam. I've been really enjoying reading Daughter of Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky and that's a review you should keep your eyes out for, I'd been meaning to get it out sooner, but then I just got busy. We are preparing for Christmas time at AWANA, making gifts for leaders and the kids. As a reward for finishing up with finals I am going with some friends to see the last Hobbit movie at the midnight showing. Then later that day, I will be making cookies with some friends to give to some people who will be spending Christmas in prison. So I will definitely be keeping busy! I'm still working twice a week at the Cracker Barrel. 

So over the next few days you will probably not be seeing too much of me, as I should actually be studying right now instead of typing this brief post...

Have a Merry Christmas!

Love at Mistletoe Inn by Cindy Kirk ~ Review

Lucie's Review:
Ten years ago John and Hope parted ways after their wedding, because of a change of heart. But what they don't know is that they are still married...
For ten years Hope and John have been living separate lives, not knowing that that they were still married.
But when John come home to Harmony, could a second chance at love be in store?

A tale that works well in the novella format. I loved John aunt, who is such a sweet lady, wanting to open her home to host weddings in the month of December.

Overall it was a sweet story, but I didn't really agree with all the choices that Hope made. It was a fast paced story, with great interaction between the characters. A sweet romance of second chances in time for Christmas :)




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 Cowboy Hero by Carolyne Aarsen ~ Review

Lucie's Review: 


Keira and her father, Monty, work on their ranch, fixing saddles and making beautiful things from leather.
When Tanner, Keira's ex comes with his saddle to be repaired, Monty welcomes him with open arms. It's been six years since they broke up, but since then somethings changed, something that Keira has told no one, not even her parents.
Will her secret keep them from a second chance at love?

Tanner is a good man haunted by the death of his brother and still hurt that his father left the family ranch to Tanner's stepmother and her son, David.

The interaction between Keira and Tanner was great, as they got to know each other again. I loved how they both weren't perfect Christians, they were human and flawed,yet all the more real for it all.

Overall, a well written story filled with great characters and plenty of tension. But a story of hope and inspiration, and second chances.





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 Brickmaker's Bride by Judith Miller ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Laura Woodfield used to help her father at the brickworks before the war tore everything apart. Now that her father is dead, and her mother wants to sell, Laura is determined to make sure that it goes to someone worthy, and she is willing to help them make the business work.
Ewan McKay's uncle is the one who is buying the brickworks from the Woodfields, and he wants to make sure that they are treated fairly. Ewan knows about running a brickyard but he doesn't have the money to buy the one from the  Woodfields. Ewan's uncle is not a man known for following through with his promises, and Ewan doesn't want to see Laura hurt.

Will Ewan and Laura find their way in the ever changing way of life after the war?

Laura is a wonderful young woman with a big heart. Her mother wants the best for her, and thinks that she has Laura's best interests at heart.
I really liked Ewan and how he was hardworking, and really just wanted to live the American dream of working hard and prospering.

Overall, a well researched read, filled with history and drama.


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."

Christmas at Rose Hill Farm by by Suzanne Woods Fisher ~ Review

Lucie's Review: 

Billy Lapp is a rose rustler, who goes about helping people identify rare roses. When a hobo named George comes to Billy's greenhouse, he welcomes him and offers him food and shelter. But maybe George will be the one to help Billy instead.
 Bess and her father raise roses on Rose Hill Farm, Bess's grandmother, Bertha began the tradition of raising roses and passed her gift on to her family and Billy Lapp.

Full of wonderful characters, this charming story will take you to Amish Country where you will meet many wonderful characters. I loved how this book went back and told Bertha's story.

There are misunderstandings and confusions to add to the drama. I really loved Maggie Zook, she was just so adorable.

Overall this was a sweet heartwarming and entertaining read, with a touch of mystery to boot! A great Christmas 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."

Live Original by Sadie Robertson with Beth Clark ~ Review

My Review:

An upbeat read, about living a life of faith, confidence, and optimism.

This might be weird, but I have never actually seen an episode of Duck Dynasty but I have read some other books by other members of the family and I have admired their faith and business smarts. And lately I have caught a few glimpses of Sadie's run on Dancing with the Stars. So I was very excited to read this book.

It was an upbeat read, quick and easy, yet meaningful in its simplicity. Sadie fearlessly shares her faith and beliefs in an age where it is not always easy to voice your beliefs. She share her passion for Christ, and throughout the book you can feel the respect she has for her family.

Sadie speaks honestly from personal experience on how to deal with things like worry, determination, following your dreams, relationships, and through it all, God.

Overall, and fun read, full of encouragement. A great book to keep in mind for gifts this Christmas!

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."

How a Star Falls by Amber Stokes ~ Review & Giveaway

My Review:

Though not long in length How a Star Falls casts an utterly delightful spell!

Derrick Knolane is a young man, finished with college and disappointed in how life has panned out afterwards, working in a music store, and living with a horrible roommate. When suddenly he meets Brielle, a girl in a beautiful dress claiming to be a fallen star. At first he thinks that she is crazy, but as he get's to know her he comes to realize that she might be just what he needs.

I fairly devoured this delightfully charming novella, reading within only 2 hours. I loved getting to know Derrick, and being in my twenties myself could very much relate to his struggles. I loved the references to pop culture like Sherlock & Owl City.

I loved how Derrick was a gentleman and nothing less, from beginning to end. He respected Brielle and didn't pester her for answers even though he wanted to.

I don't want to give too much away, but I will tell you that I completely enjoyed this book from beginning to end. I connected quickly with the characters and story, I really didn't know what to expect when I started to read this book, but whatever my expectations had been, this novella far exceeded them. My favorite novella from Amber Stokes so far!

Thank you Amber for letting me read your fantastic new book!

About the Book:

How does a star fall?
Quickly. Completely. Unexpectedly. 

Derrick Knolane escapes to Trinidad Head most evenings, avoiding his apartment and planning for the day he’ll break free of Humboldt County. Working in a music store might be fine for a while, but it’s far from the goal he had in mind when he got his college degree. Not to mention the fact that his roommate is a jerk and his family won’t stop trying to run his life.

Then Brielle falls into his world.

She claims to be a star. Not from Hollywood, but from heaven. He thinks she’s crazy. Certainly delusional. Yet, he can’t just leave her alone on the cliffs. So he takes her home.

And his whole world falls apart.

A heartfelt and fanciful contemporary romance novella, How a Star Fallsexplores the uncertain season of new adulthood and shows that sometimes the worst inconveniences make for the best miracles of all.



Author Bio

Amber Stokes works as a content writer (marketing services) for a Christian publisher. On the side, she self-publishes inspirational fiction depicting the seasons of life and love. Her passion for books compelled her to earn a bachelor's degree in English and to run her own freelance editing and publicity business for over a year. Happily, this new chapter of her career takes place in the Pacific Northwest—a part of the world she's always considered home. Learn more about Amber’s books at www.SeasonsofaStory.blogspot.com.

Social Media Links

Twitter: @SeasonsHumility

Blog: www.seasonsofhumility.blogspot.com

Website: www.seasonsofastory.blogspot.com

Pinterest: pinterest.com/seasonshumility

Goodreads: Amber Stokes


Google +:  +AmberStokes

Endorsements

"Perfect for when you want a whimsical, heartwarming read, How a Star Falls is more than an inspirational romance...it's a wink and a smile."

- Joanne Bischof, award winning author of This Quiet Sky 

"Amber Stokes has perfectly expressed the challenges of twenty-something life in her sweet contemporary new adult novella, How a Star Falls. Brielle and Derrick's journey reminds us all of the search to find ourselves in the midst of young adulthood. Their story is charming and wistful with emotions we can all relate to experiencing at some point in our lives. It is a tale about letting go in order to find yourself once again while never losing the importance of who you are...and who you can be."

- Cerella Sechrist, author of Gentle Persuasion and The Paris Connection

"Though not typically a reader of contemporary fiction, I found How a Star Falls to be a wonderfully told story of both sweet romance and coming to terms with the fact that even though life doesn't always turn out exactly as we dreamed it would, even our undesirable circumstances can lead to a bright future." 


- Jaye L. Knight, author of Ilyon Chronicles

Rafflecopter Giveaway

Share in the excitement of Amber’s new release with a special starry giveaway! You can enter to win one of three prize packs using the Rafflecopter form below. Open to U.S. residents only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Love Without End by Robin Lee Hatcher ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Chet Leonard is a 5th generation rancher, on the same ranch his family has owned for over 150 years, with his sons. They have been a close knit family ever since Chet's wife left after the death of their son.

Kimberly Welch has been through a lot every since her husband died, and she discovered that they were living far beyond their means. Now they've come to King's Meadow, because they don't have anywhere else to go.

I loved everything about this book from the setting and characters to the Josh Turner concert that they went to. I loved how this was a book that wasn't about twenty-somethings, but about people who were more mature and had lived a little more.

I loved the interaction and sense of community between the characters how they made Kimberly feel at home and the the growth of friendship between her and Chet.

I loved Anna's story and how she came to King's Meadow and began a blossoming legacy. I loved how her story was interwoven though the plot.

Overall a wonderful book filled with all of my favorite things. I would definitely recommend it to anyone.


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: Love Without End || A King's Meadow Romance (Thomas Nelson, November 2014)

Chet and Kimberly have both failed when it comes to love. Will they risk their hearts to love again?

Chet Leonard's life was forever changed when his 17-year-old son died and then, soon after, his wife walked out on their family. Over two years later, all he wants to do is hold onto his horse ranch and raise his remaining sons to be honorable men.

Kimberly Welch, widowed mother of Tara, a rebellious 15-year-old, has reached the end of her finances and nearly the end of her rope. She and Tara come to King's Meadow to try to piece their lives back together again. Kimberly has no intention of becoming involved with the residents of this remote mountain community and certainly not with any man.
When octogenarian Anna McKenna returns to King's Meadow and to the Leonard ranch, she becomes an agent of change and healing for the two hurting families. With her help, Kimberly and Chet may discover that true love has no end.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/EjjGc 

About the author: Best-selling novelistRobin Lee Hatcher is known for her heart-warming and emotionally charged stories of faith, courage, and love. The winner of the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, the RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance, two RT Career Achievement Awards, and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award, Robin is the author of over sixty novels.

Find Robin online: website, Facebook, Twitter

Landing page:

http://litfusegroup.com/author/rhatcher

Fire up the romance this holiday with Robin Lee Hatcher's latest offering in the King's Meadow Romance series, Love Without End. For two single parents with bruised hearts, it’ll take more than a little courage to get back on the horse when it comes to love.

Celebrate love rising from the ashes of tragedy with Robin by entering her Kindle Fire giveaway.

 One grand prize winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• Love Without End and the rest of the King's Meadow Romance series from Robin Lee Hatcher

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on December 14th. Winner will be announced December 15th on Robin's blog.
{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

The Christmas Cat by Melody Carlson ~ Review

Lucie's Review: 

Garrison Brown returns from nine years of serving as a missionary in Urganda, building wells, to find that his beloved grandmother has died, leaving him with the task of finding homes for her six cats. And he can't just find any home for them, his grandmother left a very detailed list of requirements for adopting one of her cats.

Will Garrison be able to find each of the cats a home in time for Christmas?

A heartwarming read just in time for Christmas. As Garrison tries to find homes for each of the cats, he finds friends, and fellowship along the way. And in a way finds himself on a journey he never could have imagined.

Garrison has lived in Urganda for nine years so he has trouble adjusting to being back in America, but along the way he meets many friends who help him adjust to his new life.

Overall this is a sweet heartwarming read that will be sure to delight many readers, cat lovers especially!



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 Most Inconvenient Marriage by Regina Jennings ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Abigail Stuart get's more than she bargained for when she married a dying soldier and agrees to care for his mother, sister, and horses. But when she comes to make good on her promise she finds shocking news, the man she married isn't the Jeremiah Calhoun she thought she married, the real Jeremiah is very much alive!

For Abigail and Jeremiah it isn't exactly love at first sight, but rather complete and utter shock. But as they get to know each other, they find that they may have just gotten what they both needed. I loved Jeremiah's mother who welcomed Abigail with open arms, despite the strange and confusing circumstances.

Filled with humor, this book put a smile on my face. There were several funny moments, especially when the Huckabee children came to play pranks.

I loved how this book always had something going on, and there were more than a few mysteries to solve.

Overall, a wonderfully entertaining read, realistic and true to the struggles faced by many trying to rebuild their lives after the war. Honestly the best book by this author, that I have read so far!




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."