Amish Promises by Leslie Gould ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

This story follows two families, one Amish and the other "English" they are neighbors, and this book follows how they impact each other's lives.


Shani is a nurse who moves her family into her grandfather's farmhouse,  in hopes that a simpler way of life will positively impact her family.

Eve is an Amish woman who lives with her brother, Tim, and cares for his 5 children. She had promised her best friend, Abra, that she would take care of her children when she died.

Eve and Shani become friends, and Shani's son Zane becomes friends with Eve's nieces and nephews, working alongside them and even pciking up some of their language.

There is a lot going on within this story with so many relationships and characters. I like the relationship between Charlie and Eve and how he prays for Eve.

Overall, this is a sort of glance at two very different families and how they came together and supported each other through tough times even though they live so differently, it shows the human condition and friendships that are made to last.


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."

An Amish Harvest by Patricia Davids ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

When Samuel suffers an accident, he fears that he will be blind and not be able to care for his family.
Rebecca lost her husband several years ago and has found a new purpose helping others. So when she hears of Samuel's accident she volunteers to help him adjust to his new life.
Can Rebecca help him see a bright future, even when his appears in darkness?

Samuel is not the best patient, and he scoffs at some of Rebecca's ideas, but tries them and to his surprise they do work. Samuel becomes a  softer man, and his relationship with his brothers improves as a result, as he finds ways to still be useful.

Rebecca is a woman of strong faith and she doesn't give up, even when Samuel resists. The dialogue between her and Samuel is very well done and I like how the relationship comes to be.

Overall  well written story with memorable characters with strong faith and plenty of determination!



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."

Exit Strategy by Shirlee McCoy ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Cyrus Mitchell works for HEART an organization that specializes in rescuing people from cults. When an old army buddy asks him to check on  Lark, a teacher who didn't come home after visiting her in-laws at Amos Way, a commune where she and he husband used to live before he was killed.
Lark has been inquiring about the questionable circumstances of her husband's death, but someone doesn't want her poking around and takes matters into her own hands.
With determination and a good ounce of courage Cyrus and Lark must face the obstacles ahead of them and escape the cult's grasp.

Lark is a brave woman, who has already been through so much and it is understandable that she is doubtful and not willing to trust Cyrus at first, as so many in her life have let her down.

Cyrus takes care of Lark and as he protects her, they grow close and they both come to depend upon one another.

Overall, this is a well written tale, and a unique premise. I really like HEART and what they stand for helping people out of abusive cult situations and rebuild their lives. Lark and Cyrus were great characters and I liked how their relationship was built. Fantastic story.



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."

Love's Rescue by Christine Johnson ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

After the death of her mother, Elizabeth is determined to go back home to Key West and become the perfect Southern Belle that her family has always wanted her to be. On the way home her ship wrecks, and she is rescued by her childhood friend Rourke O'Malley who has waited  fours years for her return.
When she returns, nothing is as she expects, she takes on the role of caretaker for her cripple brother, who resents her. Meanwhile the servants have no respect for her, and her father is not the man of stability that she always saw him as.
Will she be able to dream of a future with Rourke and overcome the obstacles in front of her?

Elizabeth is a kind a compassionate young lady, she grew up alongside her servant Annabelle, and treats her well and with respect. Only requiring her to wait on her to please her aunt. I liked how she found her mother's diary and how it opened her up to a whole new view of her family and the secrets that they hide.

Rourke is an admirable character with a strong faith, I really liked how he prayed about his relationship with Elizabeth and really trusted God throughout.

Overall, a very solid read, with many things going on throughout, with action, family drama, secrets and things that are not as they seem. But it was a bit of a slow go at times as they were not able to spend much time with each other. But a good read, nonetheless.




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."

Hearts Made Whole by Jody Hedlund ~ Review

My Review:

After watching her father drown in an effort to save the life of another, Caroline and her siblings find themselves on hard times. Their father was the lighthouse keeper of Windmill Point, and now that he is gone the lighthouse board wants to find a man to take over the job that Caroline has been doing since her father's death. The man they hire is Ryan Chambers, a war veteran, who knows very little about keeping a lighthouse. As Caroline teaches him, they begin to wonder if they might be able to work together long term...

A fast-paced read, and well written companion novel to Ms. Hedlund's previous book, Love Unexpected. This book finds Ryan Chambers a wounded and haunted war veteran, fresh from the Civil War, looking to find a  way to make right the wrongs he witnessed during the war, as well as to find a place to lay his head. Ryan is not the dashing hero on a white horse, he is a man hiding from his pain in rum and opium, but who still has a strong sense of honor. I liked that he sees himself as he is, and wants to be the kind of man to be respected. He wants things to change.

Caroline is headstrong, yet compassionate and kind. Strong enough to stand up for herself, yet hesitant to ever hurt another person. I admired her love for her family, as well as her determination ans spunk.

Overall, a really well done story, the side characters were wonderful, I especially liked Esther. The setting of the lighthouse is beautiful, yet terrific, and it's a beacon of hope to those at sea. I think my favorite character was Ryan, because he was humble and honest with himself, and genuinely wanted to make a fresh start, even though he wasn't sure if he could. Fantastic story-telling, with characters that captured my heart, and another amazing read from Jody Hedlund!



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:
Hearts Made Whole (Bethany House, June 2015)

Can she forgive the hurting man who costs her the role she loves?

After her father's death, Caroline Taylor has grown confident running the Windmill Point Lighthouse. But in 1865 Michigan, women aren't supposed to have such roles, so it's only a matter of time before the lighthouse inspector appoints a new keeper---even though Caroline has nowhere else to go and no other job available to her.

Ryan Chambers is a Civil War veteran still haunted by the horrors of battle. He's secured the position of lighthouse keeper mostly for the isolation---the chance to hide from his past is appealing. He's not expecting the current keeper to be a feisty and beautiful woman who's angry with him for taking her job and for his inability to properly run the light. When his failings endanger others, he and Caroline realize he's in no shape to run the lighthouse, but he's unwilling to let anyone close enough to help. Caroline feels drawn to this wounded soul, but with both of them relying on that single position, can they look past their loss to a future filled with hope...and possibly love?

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1eN4pC8

About the author:

Jody Hedlund is an award-winning and bestselling historical fiction author. She won the 2011 Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, the 2011 Award of Excellence from the Colorado Romance Writers and was a finalist for Best Debut Novel in the 2011 ACFW Carol Awards. Currently she makes her home in central Michigan, with her husband and five busy children. She loves hearing from readers on Facebook and on her blog.


Find Jody online: website, Twitter, Facebook 

Landing page:

http://litfusegroup.com/author/jhedlund

Don't miss Jody Hedlund's new book, Hearts Made Whole, a story of loss, forgiveness, hope, and true love set in 1865 Michigan. When Ryan's failings endanger others, he and Caroline realize he’s in no shape to run the lighthouse, but he’s unwilling to let anyone close enough to help. Can Caroline forgive the hurting man who costs her the role she loves?

Celebrate the release of Hearts Made Whole by entering to win an Afternoon at the Beach prize pack and RSVPing to Jody's June 23rd author chat party!

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of Hearts Made Whole
• A picnic basket set
• A beach bag
• Flip flops
• A beach towel

One second-place winner will receive:

• A copy of Hearts Made Whole
• A lighthouse journal

One third-place winner will receive:

• A copy of Hearts Made Whole
• A lighthouse necklace

 

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 23rd.Winner will be announced June 23rd at Jody's Facebook party. RSVP here!

On Shifting Sand by Allison Pittman ~ Review

My Review:

Nola Merrill is wasting away, blowing away like the dust that rolls in with every storm from all across the country. The wife of a small town, Oklahoma preacher, raising two kids, Nola struggles to please her family, and live up to the high expectations that she has set up for herself. But that takes it's toll as she begins to question her worth.

When an old college friend of her husband's drifts into town, she feels an uncanny connection to Jim and the temptation of the freedom he represents.

Will Nola find a way to survive before it's too late?

In this Depression Era story, Nola struggles with trying to be the "proper mother"in the midst of the dust bowl, where the dust get's into everything. Seeps into the cracks that one didn't know existed, and finding a place to accumulate.

This was a well crafted story, and very different in many ways to other books by this author. At times it was hard to read, because of the feeling that something bad would happen. It is told expertly in the first person, present tense point of view, showing the raw honestly, yet also the creeping and boldfaced lies together. The story works perfectly with the era, capturing the hopelessness, and the struggle to survive.

Nola tries to be a "good woman" loving her husband and children, and I loved how this book talks about sin and how none of us, despite our best efforts can ever fully escape, as well as the grace of God.

A truly moving tale, that is poetic, raw, and at times difficult to read. But a strong tale of redemption and God's grace.


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."

Manor of Secrets by Katherine Longshore ~ Review

My Review:

Charlotte Edmonds is the privileged young lady of the manor, from all appearances she has everything that a young lady could possibly want, expect one thing: adventure.

Jane Seward is a lowly kitchen maid, who dares to dream of more. When Charlotte unexpectedly recruits her, drawing her into her web of secrets and adventure, Janie finds herself the target of the disgruntled staff.

What secrets will this unexpected friendship bring to light?

A fast paced read, with two heroines both longing for something bigger, and adventure. Well written, this book quickly grabbed my attention and didn't let go. Engaging characters, from the mysterious Aunt Beatrice, to the all too charming Lawrence, and the ever loyal Harry, brought this novel to life.

Good dialogue and fascinating characters, as well as a healthy amount of surprise and secrets!

Overall, a wonderful read, with solid characters, this made for an enjoyable read, with nothing objectionable that I noticed. I'm desperately hoping for a sequel to this charming and intriguing 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."

The Convenient Bride Collection by Erica Vetsch, Amanda Barrat, Andrea Boeshaar, Mona Hodgson, Melissa Jagears, Maureen Lang, Gabrielle Meyer, Jennifer Uhlarik, and Renee Yancy ~ Review

Lucie's Review: 

Love grows wild in unexpected places, as these 9 couples discovers after taking the leap of faith into an arranged marriage for convenience. Some must marry to keep their inheritance like Virginia in Bonnets and Bees, who will lose her hatshop if she doesn't marry. So she marries a man who raises bees and seems to prefer their company to that of her own.

In A Groom for Josette, Josette has 3 weeks to find a husband, and over a hundred men answer her ad. Will she find the right one?

In Wedded to Honor, Honor advertises for a husband and a city slicker lawyer responds, leaving her no other option but to marry him to save her ranch.

Families are reunited like in Keeper of My Heart, where Neelie and her brother are brought together again on a wagon train.

In One Way to the Alter Leah thinks that she is going to Montana to teach, but as it turns out the town already has a teacher, but the Sheriff needs a wife.

I loved the humor in A Bride for Bear. Bear McCall gets a message saying that he has a package to pick up in town, that "package" turns out to be his three three young cousins. Emmylou came to Denver to be a mail-order bride but as it turns out he married someone else, so now she works as a waitress, where the girls see her and instantly bond with her, and ask her to marry Bear.

When Grace's sister Audrey, runs out on the guy she is supposed to marry. their father offers Grace instead. Raymond is a doctor who needs a wife, so he reluctantly agrees. Grace works hard, and Raymond works to draw out his shy wife in Substitute Bride.

I loved Anna's father in Have Cash Will Marry. He knows that he is dying, but wants to see his daughter married and being taken care of, but is afraid that most of the men are after her money. Robert Raddyfe is a man who is just what Anna's father fears, he is a British aristocrat who has come to America to meet and marry a rich wife.

Overall a wonderful collection of stories that show that love can grow out of unusual circumstances. So many wonderful stories sure to keep you entertained.



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."

Beautiful on the Mountain by Jeannie Light ~ Review

My Review:

Jeannie Light is a recently divorced woman during the 1970's who is called to serve the people of Graves Mill, and none sees her as more of an unlikely choice than she herself.

Jeannie makes new friends, and adjusts to life in the mountains getting to know and care for the people as their way of live changes around them. She gives what comfort she can in times of suffering, and stands her ground when the time arises.

Jeannie tells her stories with fondness, recalling days gone past, and the faces that made the mountains her home, as she brings the community together through gentle encouragement and new opportunities. Jeannie learns as she goes, and her story is not without some tales of setting the community at odds.

Ultimately this is a heartwarming read about community and faith. I loved sharing in the humor and heartache along with Jeannie and her friends, Charlie, Jim, Pam, Tallis and so many more! A story 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."

The Cowboy's Homecoming by Carol Aarsen ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Tugs at the heartstrings from the very beginning and doesn't let go.

Lee Bannister comes back after leaving eight years ago, for the 150th anniversary of Refuge Ranch and his sister's wedding. Lee has had his reasons for not coming back, he was in prison for 3 years for a DUI and has been working hard since to repay his parents all the money spent on the lawsuit.
Abby Newton is the last person that Lee expected to see on his first day back, the daughter of the man who Lee hurt in the accident, and she is just as mad at him as she was eight years ago. But when as a reporter she get's assigned the story on Refuge Ranch can she and Lee overcome the past and forgive?

As Lee shows her around the ranch, Abby begins to see that he isn't the same kid from her past. He teaches her to ride, and they rescue a calf.

I love Lee's story and how he has intentionally changed his life around. And his father gives good advice about moving forward and becoming a man of integrity.

Overall, a fantastic story that had me hooked and cheering for the characters from the very beginning. I would definitely recommend this wonderful novel :)



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."