My Heart Belongs in Glenwood Springs, Colorado: Millie's Resolve by Rebecca Jepson ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Millie has been working as a nurse alongside Dr. Murphy for 5 years in Colorado, but when she sees a familiar face from the past talking with Dr. Murphy, she knows that her past has caught up to her. Millie grew up in Nantucket, the daughter of a poor fisherman, she was a happy and outgoing child who befriended the Drexel children, as they grew up she and Stephen Drexel became especially close, but she was beneath his station so she left him and Nantucket behind.

Millie is initially insulted by Stephen's offer of a job taking care of his asthmatic mother and pregnant sister, but when his mother has an attack in the middle of the night she feels compelled to take the job.

Millie is strong and woman of her word, she perseveres, despite Mrs. Drexel treating her horribly, Stephen's wife is the only one who seems to appreciate her help, despite visiting their house being awkward. Millie is a good friend, and is industrious as she helps Mrs. Drexel to eliminate triggers.

This book is has a quick hook and poignant backstory, but I feel that the flow got bogged down in the middle. I liked Millie for her determination, faith, and compassion. I didn't know what to think of John Drexel, he wasn't very present, and seemed to make assumptions about Millie, despite them only having limited interactions. But things did comes together for a very dramatic ending.

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."

Miss Wilton's Waltz by Josi S. Kilpack ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

An introvert by nature, Miss Lenora Wilton is an accomplished musician, who has always been in her sister's shadow. When her intended breaks their betrothal in order to wed her younger sister, Lenora goes back to Bath to be with her aunt, and teach music at a girl's school. Lenora helps tutor voice, as well as pianoforte. One of her students Catherine is quite the challenge, she can play by ear ear, but doesn't like to read music.

Aidan Asher is Catherine's uncle, and he is determined to do right by her after being named her guardian. She has been shipped around from relative to relative and to various schools. He will do anything to keep his daughter in school. After running into Lenora down by the river after nightfall, he knows that he has the leverage he needs to get Catherine some extra help.

But will Aidan and Lenora be able to work together to help Catherine, and perhaps find more?

A well written book from beginning to end, it was engaging, and I liked Lenora from the very beginning. She is a very good teacher, and even though Catherine is difficult, she really wants to help her. Lenora is clever, and witty, though she hides it behind her quiet nature.

It is an engaging story with well developed characters, and great interaction. I liked how Lenora is an honorable woman, she forgives, and really does her best by Catherine, despite the fact that Catherine despises her. I like Lenora's aunt, who is a kindly and wise woman, who is a rock for Lenora.

A fantastic read, even though I know that this is something of a sequel/companion to a previous book, it stands wonderfully on its own. Well written, with fantastic characters. I can't wait to read more from this series!


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."

More Than Meets the Eye by Karen Witemeyer ~ Review

Lucie's Review:
The first in a new series by Karen Witemeyer it follows three unwanted orphans who met on the orphan train, banded together and made their own family.

Zach is the oldest, he is a gruff, protector, with a heart of gold. Seth is scrawny, with asthma, who reads everything he can get his hands on. Both of them are very protective of Evie, who has face prejudice because of her different colored eyes. They find a safe place out of town where Seth is free of asthma and Evie can wander the hills with her pet pig, Hezekiah.

Logan Fowler is a man bent on revenge, he wants to ruin the man who hurt his family, but he isn't expecting to find Evie. He tells himself that befriending her isn't a lie, and he is intrigued by her beautiful eyes.

Will Evie and Logan find in each other More Than Meets the Eye?

Logan is an unexpected hero who bursts onto the scene--literally. He has a bent for revenge, but the more that he gets to know Evie and her family, the more he comes to realize that he needs to come clean about his reasons for coming to them. I like how he encourages Evie, and urges her to pay not attention to the ignorant townspeople who fling their painful insults. I liked the dialog between him and Evie.

Evie has a big heart, despite being hurt by people's ignorance. She is kind, honest, and gives a first impression of naivety, but has a level of spiritual maturity that shines through. I love her pet pig, who brings a lot of humor to this riveting novel.

I liked this book from the beginning, and how you don't only see the relationship of the main characters, but also get to know Evie's brothers, and their new friend Christie, a deaf girl who can speak and read lips. There are great characters, humor, faith, mystery, with an action packed conclusion. I liked the theme of giving God control, and trusting in His plan and not our own. I couldn't put it down, it was an absolute delight to read. This is one of my favorite books so far by this author!

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 Orphan's Wish by Melanie Dickerson ~ Review

My Review:

Aladdin was an orphan, stealing on the streets of the Holy Land, before he was taken to Hagenheim by a crusading knight and a priest. He befriends the duke's daughter, Kristyn, and they form a close friendship that lasts through time and distance.

Aladdin cares for Kristyn and he goes off to make his way in the world. He gains the trust of a businessman, Herr Kauffman, who treats him as a son. But just as things begin to fall in place, they begin to unravel.

Will Kristyn and Aladdin be able to cling to their faith and their friendship despite the situations that threaten to tear them apart?

This was a difficult one for me to review, because I had such high expectations, but it just wasn't for me. I've read other books in the series, and other books by this author and loved them all, but this one just didn't do it for me. Kristyn is a brave heroine, she weathers the trials that come her way, and she doesn't give up hope, even when things look darkest.

Aladdin is a man of integrity, who finds himself tested multiple times over the course of the book. He is loyal, and compassionate. I love how he reaches out to Abu, a young boy who lives by his wits on the streets. Aladdin in my mind was a lot like Joseph of the Bible, he is given great responsibility and prospers, yet he is faced with horrible misfortunes not of his doing.

I think the reason that I struggled to like this book was because so much of the relationship between the characters depended on past experiences, memories, and sometimes it felt like they both expected the other person to be a mind reader. Kristyn and Aladdin are separated for much of the book, and so it was hard to see their relationship really grow over the course of the story.

I did like the way that Ms. Dickerson drew from the story of Aladdin, and bringing him to Hagenheim through the Crusades. And I thought that the main elements of the story were wonderfully transposed. While this wasn't my favorite of the collection, I still eagerly await reading the future installments in the series.

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."

Vanished in the Night by Lynette Eason ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Dr. Joshua Crawford is returning to Wrangler's Corner, when he interrupts an attempted kidnapping of a woman about to give birth. They don't have time to make it to the hospital, so he delivers the child.

Kaylie Martin is a widow, she was on her way to the hospital when a van pulls in front of her. She is grateful for Joshua's help delivering her son Duncan. On the way home someone starts shoots at them, and the adventure begins...

Joshua and Kaylie must work together to find out who is behind the attacks to keep Kaylie and baby Duncan safe. The problem is that there are a lot of options, Kaylie's late husband had connections to organized crime, and Kaylie used to have a stalker.

Joshua jumps right in, and is committed to protecting Kaylie and her son. But when Duncan is taken, they must work together to stop the kidnapper before it's too late.

Joshua is a strong and compassionate Christian man, he is surprised by how fast he has come to care for Duncan and Kaylie, and he is determined to protect them.

Kaylie is smart and capable, she realizes that she needs help and can't do everything on her own, she leans on her faith, and doesn't give up. I like how she stays calm in a tough situation.

Action-packed and suspenseful, yet full of surprises. Kaylie and Joshua have great interaction, and come to trust each other throughout the ordeal. This is a fantastic read from beginning to end, Lynette Eason has never let me down yet!

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 Daring Venture by Elizabeth Camden ~ Review

My Review:

Dr. Rosalind Werner is a biochemist, with a passion for improving the welfare of communities so that they will not have to fear the diseases brought on by unclean drinking water. Rosalind fled scandal in Germany, and is fighting to prove herself in the experimental chlorination of public water. One of their fiercest opponents is Nick Drake, the plumber turned wealthy businessman.

Nick is just as passionate about the welfare of the community, but is skeptical of putting chemicals into public drinking water, with unknown long-term effects. He has fought to earn his place among the wealthy, but his knowledge of the inner workings of the water systems prove valuable assets as he fights to improve the lives of the poor.

Nick and Rosalind fight their attraction to each other, while fighting for clean water on opposing sides, does their love have a chance?

Who would have guessed that a novel about water purification would be this riveting? Elizabeth Camden has done it again, written a completely engrossing novel that I couldn't put down, well researched and full of historical details that enriched this romantic and suspenseful read. Probably one of my favorites by Ms. Camden so far, I picked this book up on my day off and couldn't put it down. I read it through in one day!

Rosalind is brilliant, a strong woman, clever, and well educated, she has a passion for preventing water-borne illnesses that took her parents and nearly took her brother, Gus. She fled from a scandal in Germany, does her best to avoid all appearances of impropriety while working in a field dominated by men.

Nick is back in the long awaited sequel to A Dangerous Legacy, where we are first introduced to the feud between the Drake families. Time has passed, and he has grown into his position of privilege, and is determined to use his wealth to improve the lives of others. He is widowed, and the father of a daughter, Sadie. As a newly monied man he finds it hard to be accepted in the higher reaches of society where much of the moving and shaking is done. He is an intelligent man who learned by experience, as he didn't have the opportunities for a higher education like the men that are now his peers. He is a man who burns hot, because he deeply cares, and wants to make a difference, though far too often it land him in trouble.

This is a fantastic read from beginning to end it was engaging, well-paced, with strong passionate protagonists that gripped my heart, and their flaws only made me love them more. There is conspiracy and intrigue, with high stakes legal cases, alongside romance, family drama, and hints of healing rifts. I liked how Rosalind and Nick, though often dealt a raw hand, still chose to be optimists and think well of others. A thrilling climax, and well done characters. An absolutely thrilling read, that I highly recommend!

P.S. I'm hoping that Eloise's story is in the making, as she is an intriguing young woman who definitely has a story to tell!

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 Cowboy of Convenience by Stacy Henrie ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Vienna Howe left her abusive husband when she found out that she was pregnant, now she is working as a ranch cook and her daughter is 2 years old. She and her daughter, Hattie, are happy and safe, but when the sheriff delivers the news that her husband has died and his land is now her's, she decides to claim what is rightfully her's, to give her daughter a home.

Her employer's foreman, West McCall, offers to help Vienna and Hattie make their land profitable, and offers a marriage of convenience to make his staying on the property above reproach.

Will their marriage of convenience make a family of them yet?

West grew up in the city, and has been saving his money for a long time to start a dude ranch to show other city folks the beauty of living on the land. He knows that Vienna needs a plan in order to make ranching work for her and Hattie, and he offers to help them, introducing them to his friends who run a dude ranch. I love how he interacts with Hattie, listening and encouraging her, while showing her how to do things.

Seeing Hattie with West helps Vienna to deicide favor of marrying West. Shes sees how kind he is, and that her daughter needs a father. I like how West and Vienna work together to make their dream a reality.

Overall, a sweet book about second chances at love, and overcoming the past through faith. Hattie is a charming and delightful child, she brings life and touches of humor to the story. I liked the setting and the plotline, a sweet western 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."

Hope of Nations by John S. Dickerson ~ Review

My Review:


Written by a journalist turned pastor, this book tells of the current trends of our culture as it moves past being a culture of absolute truth to moral subjectivity.

As a Millenial I can see the trends in my believing and non-believing peers, and agree that our culture is becoming one of post-truth. Mr. Dickerson's journalistic talents shine through in his excellent research and gathering of statistics, as he tells of the current trends of the culture. I found this book to be very interesting, it is very timely and current. I have read similar books written twenty-ish years ago that warn of our culture being right where it is now, so it was nice to read a more current book on the subject. I liked how Mr. Dickerson is constantly pointing readers back to the fact that Jesus Christ and His people will prevail, because it can be quite depressing to read all the stories and statistics compiled in this book.

Earthly powers are shifting, and cultures are being upended, but God wins. Mr. Dickerson uses examples from history and modern culture to show that nothing is new under the sun, and we must be ready to stand firm in our faith when the trials and persecution come.

While it is engaging and well written, at times I felt bogged down by all the statistics and pieces on current culture that I felt were pretty obvious, and could have been more concise. But I liked how the book focuses on what we can do to be prepared, stand firm, and how we can control what our response as followers of Christ will be to this changing world. A relevant and timely read for Christians living in Western culture today.

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."

Thankful 6.5.18

Opposition that challenges me to confront my convictions and the reasons why I stand for the things that I believe. 

Weariness that shows me that I can't do it on my own, and must rely on God's strength and steadfastness. 

Books that teach, challenge, and entertain.

My father who taught me to work hard and not complain, and take pride in a job well done, and yet be humble.

The hope that shines bright in this dark world, Jesus Christ.

Reunited with the Bull Rider by Jill Kemerer ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Amy Deerson is a woman of faith with a passion for helping children, and quilts. Amy is stunned to see the man who left her 10 years ago come back into her life, but she doesn't back down and does what she can to help him and his sister.

Nash Bolton retired from bull riding to raise his 4 year old sister. Their mother was a drug addict, and little Ruby needs stability so he decides it's finally time to go to the place he swore he'd never return to because of how he left, and the girl he left behind.

Amy is unsure about Nash, but she doesn't have to think twice about helping Ruby. Nash is a great brother, and will do anything to help Ruby. Nash and Ruby have a special bond, he knows what she went through because he lived it, he hates seeing her struggle with the same habits that he had to break.

I loved Amy's faith, and she does her best to live it despite her painful past. She struggles to to the right thing, and was relatable.

Nash admires Amy for how far she's come, he knows that he couldn't be good enough for her, but he supports her dreams and appreciated her helping with Ruby. He is a rough tough cowboy, who loves his sister dearly, and is willing to put aside his pride to do what is best for her.

Ruby grows so much under Nash and Amy's care, she tries new things, and comes to trust Amy. Amy also must face Nash's past in order to help Ruby, and in so doing comes to understand the man who hurt her better.

This is one of the best contemporary books that I've read in a long time, and it definitely had me wondering why I'd never read Jill Kremerer before now! Highly recommend this tender romance about fighting for the ones you love, and forgiveness that brings healing in a broken world.


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."