The Mason Jar by James Russell Lingerfelt ~ Review

Lucie's Review: 

Growing up Finn and his grandfather shared letters, leaving them for each other in the old mason jar, words of encouragement, advice, and affirmation. When Finn left for college he fell in love with beautiful young woman with a past, named Eden. Suddenly Eden disappears from his life and Finn is left with many unanswered questions, so he goes to the mission field in Africa, and returns home to bury his grandfather still haunted by the mysterious love that still haunts him.
"A story about a girl who vanished, a former love who wrote a book about her and a reunion they never imagined." [from the back cover of the book]

What I Loved: I loved the premise of the story, with the exchanging of the letters and the closeness between Finn and his grandfather. And how the grandfather uses his letters to encourage Finn, and share his faith with him.

What I Liked: I liked how Eden and Finn were careful too not let their relationship go "too far" physically. I did come to understand the reasons why Eden felt she had to do what she did, though it would have been nice if she had been able to tell Finn sooner so that he wouldn't have been bitter so long

What I Disliked: I didn't like how Eden and Finn's relationship got physical so fast, and how often the book would described their physical intimacies during their time together. I didn't connect to the characters and that made it a hard book to read.

Overall:  This wasn't my kind of book, and honestly not one that I could recommend. I often felt that it tried too hard to be intellectual, making it tougher to connect with the story and the characters. Personally this just wasn't the book for me, I have read many reviews that rave about this book and others that rave about it, so I would definitely recommend looking into other reviews to get a fuller picture of if this book is a good fit for you!

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: 

What if your old college roommate called, raving about a book someone sent her, calling it the most beautiful book she's ever read? "But," she said, "it's about you." The author is your college ex.

In The Mason Jar, Clayton Fincannon is a Tennessee farm boy raised at the feet of his grandfather. He and his grandfather leave letters for each other in a Mason jar on his grandfather's desk---letters of counsel and affirmation. When Clayton attends college in Southern California, he meets and falls in love with a dark debutante from Colorado. However, when an unmentioned past resurrects in her life and she leaves, Clayton is left with unanswered questions.

Clayton goes on to serve as a missionary in Africa, while he and his grandfather continue their tradition of writing letters. When Clayton returns home five years later to bury his grandfather, he searches for answers pertaining to the loss of the young woman he once loved. Little does Clayton know, the answers await him in the broken Mason jar.

A story about a girl who vanished, a former love who wrote a book about her, and a reunion they never imagined.

Written for the bruised and broken, The Mason Jar is an inspirational romance that brings hope to people who have experienced disappointment in life due to separation from loved ones. With a redemptive ending that encourages us to love again and written in the fresh, romantic tones of Nicholas Sparks, The Mason Jar interweaves the imagery of Thoreau with the adventures and climatic family struggles common toDances with Wolves, A River Runs Through It, and Legends of the Fall.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/C52aq

About the author: 

James Russell Lingerfelt is the author of The Mason Jar and writes articles for The Huffington Post. James connects with readers at his blog, Love Story from the Male Perspective, and divides his time between Southern California and his family's ranch in Alabama.

Find James online: website, Facebook, Twitter

Landing Page: http://litfusegroup.com/author/jlingerfelt

James Russell Lingerfelt's debut novel, The Mason Jar, is hot-off-the-press and causing quite the buzz. It's even been optioned for a feature film and is in pre-production.

Catch the spark by entering James' Kindle Fire giveaway!

 
One grand prize winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• The Mason Jar by James Russell Lingerfelt

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 19th. Winner will be announced October 20th at James Russell's blog, Love Story from the Male Perspective.

Deceived by Irene Hannon ~ Review

Astor's Review:

Three years since losing her husband and son in a tragic boating accident, Kate Marshall is trying to rebuild her life in St. Louis. These last three years she has never been able to shake the feeling that her son is still alive, and after seeing a boy in the mall who she has an uncanny bond to, she is even more determined to find the answers she craves.

Everyone thinks that Kate is crazy, the only person who takes her seriously in Private Investigator Connor Sullivan, a former Secret Service agent who worked for the president. But as he digs into the mystery, what he find may be more sinister than they could have ever imagined....

A heart pounding mystery, with compelling characters and an intriguing and riveting plot. Romance, suspense, action, and intrigue, the more I read the more I was absorbed into the ever-tightening spiral of this book's spell. There was emotion and heartbreak, as well as healing, and hard won justice.

I really admired Kate's determination, and Connor's dedication to solving the mystery and bringing her son home.

Overall this was a fantastic book with multiple twists and unexpected turns that had me riveted to the pages. I did not want to put this book down! I could honestly go on and on about this book, but I don't want to give away any spoiler! Great book, 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."

Playing by Heart by Anne Mateer ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Lula Bowman left college and her plans to be the first woman in Oklahoma to earn a PhD in mathematics, to take care of her younger sister Jewel after the death of her husband. Lula takes a teaching position in her hometown teaching the only subjects that are not already filled, music and basketball!
Both of these subjects are completely out of Lula's element so she asks the boy's basketball coach, Chet Vaughn, to help her understand the game. But as she grows closer to Chet she begins to question her well laid plans.
Will Lula give love a chance to work things out?

A delightful small town setting, and a great plot. I learned a lot about early basketball, and didn't know how different the girl's version of basketball was from the boys'.

Chet was a great hero, who genuinely cared about the boys he was teaching, and taught them more than just basketball, but also lessons about life.

Lula was so brave to take on a job where she knew almost nothing about the topics that she was expected to teach, and she did her best to learn what she didn't know.

The one thing I wished there had been more of was real interaction between Chet and Lula, though I will admit that the lack of good communication was mostly due to the school's strict rule about their male and female teachers fraternizing. So much of their relationship was built up in their heads.

Overall, an enjoyable read, I can honestly say that I learned so much from this book in terms of history. I could tell that the author put a ton of work into the research of this book. Great plot, and characters, very nice 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."

Can't Let You Go by Jenny B. Jones ~ Review

My Review:

Katie Parker is back in this great follow up to Jenny B. Jones' hit series that follows Katie and her new found family on their many adventures in In Between, Texas.

Years later Katie has finished college and been living in London, acting on the theater stage. But when she hears that her best friend, Frances is marrying Joey Benson, and her acting gig in London goes down, she knows that it is finally time to return home to In Between to her family.

One the return flight home, Katie runs into her high school flame, Charlie Benson. When they return to In Between they find that it is on the verge of being bought up by a huge cooperation called Thrifty & Co. Will Katie, Charlie, and their many families and friends be able to save In Between and Katie's beloved Valiant Theatre before it's too late?

A fun filled novel, that catches up with Katie as she makes her way in life as an adult, returning home to her family and the place that she fell in love with as a teenager. Maxine is back with her typical outspoken sass, and Katie narrates with her wry, sarcasm, and all-to-honest observations that made me literally laugh out loud. I was a little disappointed that I didn't get to see Katie's parents, and Maxine's husband, Sam as much as I hoped. Also I was a bit disappointed in how Katie and Charlie communicated pretty poorly throughout much of the book, as well as Katie's waffling in decision.

It's interesting to see how Katie has grown over the years not covered in the books, and is still growing into a confident young woman. While the faith elements didn't come through quite as strongly in this book, I liked how this story served more as a coming of age tale about Katie facing her fears and embracing her life as an adult.

Overall, this was a fun read. It was great to see In Between and Maxine again, and that while some things change, there are things that never will. Definitely a book to look into if you are a Katie Parker fan.

I bought this book with my own money, and reviewing it simply because I liked it. 

Promise to Cherish by Elizabeth Byler Younts ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

During WWII Amishman Eli Brenneman serves as a conscientious objector in the Civilian Public Service hoping that his service will help him let go of his childish heartbreaking ways.
Christine Freeman is a nurse with a past, and a heart in need of healing. At first she resents Eli for being a "CO" as she lost both of her brothers to the war. But her respect for him grows as she sees his willingness to do the hardest and most thankless jobs without complaint. But when an unwanted love from the past comes back to haunt her, Eli offers her shelter and a place of refuge among his community.
Will Christine find what she's looking for, and finally escape the demons of her past?

A great read, with well developed characters, that I could really cheer for. One of my favorite characters was Aunt Annie, who welcomed Christine into her life with open arms, and didn't judge her for her past mistakes. She shared her faith, and always was warm and quick to smile.

There were some thematic elements to the story that make it hard to read, my heart definitely went out to Christine. But I would also say that this wouldn't be the kind of book that I would give to a 12-14 year old.

Overall, a great read, that I felt was realistic to the times and situation. A novel that I would happily 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."

Dean's List VoxBox from Influenster ~ Quick Review

I recently received a college VoxBox of full sized products though Influenster. So I made this quick video to talk about some of the products I received.



To See everything I received in my #DLVoxBox go to my pinterest board: http://www.pinterest.com/fayeoygard/deans-list-vox-box/


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."

Maggie's Miracle by Karen Kingsbury ~ Review

My Review:

Jordan is a lonely child being raised a single mother, who longs for a father -figure in his life. So he writes God a letter asking for just that.
Megan Wright sees her son's loneliness, and signs him up for a program that provides mentors for grieving children, and the agency matches Jordan up with a man named Casey Cummins.
Casey lost his wife and child two years ago, and without them his life seems so empty. But when he is matched as the mentor of a young boy named Jordan, he feels God's hand, and knows this isn't a coincidence, but a miracle.

A sweet, heartwarming Christmas romance. I'll admit that I had some serious doubts about this novella from the first, as much of it seemed completely unrealistic. Mostly that Jordan's mother would allow him to hang out by himself with a stranger, without her at the very least meeting him first.

Jordan was a good child, with well meaning intentions. Casey was like a knight in shining armor, and Megan the fair maiden in distress.

But in the end this sweet tale won me over, what can I say? I love a sappy, happy ending. A lovely tale that put a smile on my face and kept me engaged throughout. Definitely something 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."

Alaskan Sweethearts by Janet Tronstad ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Hunter Jacobson is a Montana Cowboy, with a good heart that is used to being careful, he grew up trying to protect others from his grandfather's schemes.
Colin Jacobson is Hunter's grandfather, who has made peace with his past and back to God.
Scarlett Murphy is used to being strong decisive, but since her husband left, she hasn't known where to turn or who to trust. So Colin offers her and her son Joey a place to live, she can't refuse such a generous offer.
Can hearts heal in the beautiful wilds of Alaska?

A wonderful novel that had me hooked from the very beginning and held on till the very end. There was great interaction between the characters, I especially liked how both Hunter and his grandfather took the time to build a relationship with Joey and help him overcome his timidity. I liked how all of the characters came together and formed relationships, not just Scarlett and Hunter, it really was about a family being brought together.

Overall, this was a wonderful read, filled with hope and touches of humor. Fast-paced, and enjoyable this is definitely a read that 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."

Love's Fortune by Laura Frantz ~ Review

Lucie's Review:


Rowena "Wren" Ballentyne has spent the first twenty-five years of her life in Cane Run, Kentucky, with only a vague knowledge of her father's family.So when her father tells her that they are headed to Pittsberg she thinks that it is just for a visit, and she tries her best to fit in, even when it is clear that she doesn't.
Wren is open and friendly and she quickly develops good relationships with her grandparents, Aunt Ellie, and her cousin Izanna as she tries to navigate Pittsberg society.

This was a well told story, lush with detail. Though I really didn't like the way that Wren's father handled the whole situation, plunging her into high society an a season, with any prior preparation.

James Sackett is a very interesting man, a suave riverboat pilot, chosen to be Wren's escort for the season. Proper and straight-laced, perfectly attired, and conscientiously observes all the rules of society. It took awhile to get to know him, because much of his conversation with Wren was stilted because of how unbendingly proper James was, yet sometimes she was able to break through his defenses.

I also really liked Mim, Wren's lady's maid, who was very kind, with a good sense of humor that helped put Wren at ease.

Overall, this was a well written read, with a well built setting, and well developed characters. The riveting storyline kept me glued to the page. Great read, that I would definitely 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 Curious Case of the Missing Figurehead by Diane Noble ~ CFBA Tour & Review

Lucie's Review: A delightfully humorous whodunit!

El Littefield is a caterer who solve mysteries on the side, and she is especially invested in this case as she is a prime suspect.
Her catering company "The Butler Did It" was serving a retirement dinner for Dr. Haverhill when half the guests starting throwing up and had to be sent to the hospital.On that same night the figurehead that Dr. Haverhill found is stolen, and El's best friend, Hyacinth, goes missing.

The story unfolds from the perspectives of the main characters. Besides Mrs. Littlefield's side of the story, which is told in first person, the other three perspectives are related in third person. So once I got used to the format, I found that is flowed wonderfully and kept the action going throughout the book.

I liked that the main characters in this book weren't the typical 20-somethings, this is a story about mature, middle-aged adults.

Overall this is a fun, entertaining read with lots of clues to uncover the real villain. There is great interaction between Max and El. Max is a strong man of good character and faith, who never married, and is surprised that at his age he has found someone he is interested in.  A real page turner with a multi-layered mystery that keeps you guessing and take time to unravel.

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 The Curious Case of the Missing Figurehead David C. Cook (September 1, 2014) by Diane Noble

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Award-winning novelist Diane Noble writes stories that tap into the secrets of the heart.

With more than a quarter million books in print, Diane feels incredibly blessed to be doing what she loves best—writing the stories of her heart.

For the last three years Diane has been honored to be lead author for the popular Guideposts series, Mystery and the Minister’s Wife (Through the Fire, Angels Undercover), and has recently returned to writing historical fiction. She recently finished writing book two of her new historical series, The Brides of Gabriel. Book one, The Sister Wife, and book 2, The Betrayal, which are published by Harper Collins/Avon Inspire, are now in bookstores.

Now empty nesters, Diane and her husband live in the Southern California low desert, near a place known for the lush and beautiful gated communities of the rich and famous.

ABOUT THE BOOK

She’s Passionate about Solving the Case ... with the Town’s Life-Long Bachelor

El Littllefield runs The Butler Did It catering. It’s the perfect cover for her to solve “who-done-its” (nothing too dangerous, please!) in this small university town nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. While catering her most important event yet—a fancy retirement dinner for Dr. Max Haverhill, life-long bachelor and history dean—countless guests fall ill, a 200 year-old relic is stolen, and her best friend vanishes. All in the first hour.

As El and Max race to solve the mystery, they discover there’s more to their relationship than simply solving the case. Welcome to Eden’s Bridge—the perfect small town setting for big intrigue, romance, and humor.

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Curious Case of the Missing Figurehead, go HERE