Justice Delivered by Patricia Bradley ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Carly Smith is an alcohol and addiction counselor at a camp for girls, she is a survivor herself, a former victim of sex trafficking and drug addiction. When she discovers that the man who lured her into that dark world of sex trafficking is still at large and luring other girls to the same fate under the guise of being a modelling agent.

When her niece is kidnapped, she decides to take action and go after the perpetrators, along with her brother-in-law, his girlfriend, Maggie, and Logan, a man from her past.

A fast-paced thriller, that though it is a part of a series, stands alone and is more of a companion to the previous books as they are minimally related. A chilling read, about a difficult topic, Carly is very brave and is working hard to start over and carve out a fresh start, she doesn't want to relive her past, and I admired her courage in facing her past. She wants to do whatever she can to help bring her niece home. She has her personal struggles with faith and trust, and I think she was a stronger character because of her vulnerabilities.

I liked David and Maggie, he is a cold case investigator and she is a defense attorney. They find their faith and their relationship tested by their respective jobs, finding common ground working to bring Lexi home. I liked the scenes with them together, they have great interaction.

Overall, a suspenseful and action-packed read, with inspiring characters, great character building and relationships, as well as faith. A well-rounded story, and fantastic read. Advised for older readers due to the more mature subject matter.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. 

Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Book of Comforts: Genuine Encouragement for Hard Times by Kaitlin Wernet, Rebecca Faires, Cymone Wilder and Caleb Faires ~ Review

My Review:

A beautiful hardcover book with 89 chapters of encouragement and consolation firmly founded in Scripture. Written by four authors and artists who came together in this project to share hope and encouragement in the face of suffering, disappointment and grief. 

Loss, sorrow, heartache, and pain are all parts of being human and living in the world. Death is a continual reminder of sin and its effect on the earth, but there is hope in Jesus Christ. 

I didn't know what to expect when reading this book, but I always have struggled to know what to say in difficult times. I was really impressed by this book, and how while I was thinking of this book and its message more in the context of death and loss. But as I read, I was impressed with how it is full of comfort  and words of hope and encouragement applicable to various situations like heartbreak, disappointments, loss of jobs, death, etc. 

Overall, a beautiful book with 89 devotion style chapters, with slick sturdy pages, and full color graphics, bound in a hard cover embossed gift book style. Rooted in Scripture, each chapter is focused around God's word and His comfort. Highly recommend, would make a great gift for someone in your life going through a hard time. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book.

 Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Artful Match by Jennifer Delamere ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Cara Bernay has been working as a governess, but when a costly mistake causes her to lose her job, she meets an artist who encourages her to pursue her art. But she soon finds herself at odds with her new friend's titled brother.

Cara is gifted with children, optimistic, and somewhat impetuous. She and Langham become fast friends, and she helps to rein in his more wild tendencies. Henry, his brother, admires that about her and invites her to come and stay with them and his young ward.

This was a pleasant read, with intriguing secrets and unique situations. I loved how Cara bonded with Amelia, and gave her the attention and structure that she was lacking.

Henry is responsible and bound by duty and the heavy burden of the financial needs of the estate. He loves his family deeply, but doesn't always know the right thing for them.

I did struggle with the realistic-ness of the plot at times, as some of her decisions were not the wisest for the time period, and didn't feel very realistic to me. But it does stand alone well, and while it does help to read the previous books, it is not necessary. A good conclusion to the series though, and I liked the interaction between the characters. I also learned a lot about the artist movements of the time which was pretty cool. A story of love and creativity.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. 

Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Daisies and Devotion by Josi S. Kilpack ~ Review

Lucie's Review: 
Companion book to Promises and Primroses. 

Timothy Mayfield is a upstanding, responsible, honorable, young man who has accepted his circumstances as a man who must marry for money. Though he is a good man, his financial situation is known and he is about ready to give on his search for a wife when his Uncle Elliot presents him with a solution to his problem. Timothy takes his uncle up on his offer to participate in the "marriage campaign" to find a suitable low match, and a generous inheritance will be his. Free to look for a match without considering money, he makes a list of the qualities he wants in his perfect match.

Maryann Morrington has spent the last few years caring for her sick mother, her father is wealthy so even though she has not been in society long there are many bachelors seeking her hand. Maryann has known Timothy for a while, she had once considered him as a suitor, but when she sees his list she tells him that he is being utterly unrealistic, but she agrees to help him find the girl of his dreams.

Will Timothy realize that maybe the girl for him is the one who doesn't quite fit all the requirements of his list, and that she's been there all along?

I loved this book. From cover to cover, this book brought a smile to my face. I loved Timothy and Maryann, they are both so well developed. Maryann is clever and has a good head on her shoulders, she is a true friend to Timothy, from advising him on his wardrobe to straightforwardly telling him the truth and challenging him to be a better man.

Timothy is a natural extrovert, he has a good heart, but doesn't always think through what he says before saying it. He is genuine, fair, and more than a little oblivious when it comes to finding his match.

Overall, so well written, with excellent dialog, with characters that you can't help but cheer for all the way through. Highly enjoyable, I didn't want to put this book down. I can't wait to read the next book 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."

Shelter of the Most High by Connilyn Cossette ~ Review

My Review:

Sofea and her cousin Prezi are taken by marauders from their island home in Sicily, and find themselves alone outside of Kedesh.

Eitan has grown up inside the walls of the refuge city, Kedesh, and has taken the Nazarite vow, wearing his hair long. He longs to serve his countrymen as a soldier like his step-father, Darek, but due to the the tragedy in his past he must remain within the city. He is enchanted by the beautiful Sofea, and their friendship grows as the barrier of language fades.

As a murder conspiracy is uncovered and trusts are betrayed will they learn to trust the One True God, who is a shelter and comfort to those who love Him?

I loved how this book picks up Eitan's story eleven years after the events of the previous book, and though this book also stands well on its own, I don't know why anyone wouldn't want to read Moriyah and Darek's story in A Light on the Hill. Eitan is an intelligent young man, with a stubbornness that is both his strength and his weakness. He loves his siblings and adores his mother, Moriyah, while his relationship with Darek is more complex. He is honorable and fights to do what is right, even when he doesn't want to.

Sofea and her cousin share a close bond, brought even closer as they are strangers in a new land. Sofea is willing to put aside her strong will for her cousin's safety, she is drawn to her new friends and their God who is unlike the demanding and unforgiving gods of her homeland. I admired her sacrificial love for her cousin and her friends, she is quick thinking and daring.

A story of love, sacrifice, family, betrayal, and God's unfailing love, set during the years after the Israelites entered the Promised Land. Well researched I love how these books help me to think more about the struggles that God's people faced entering the promised land. Ms. Cossette uses beautiful, lush descriptions that bring the story to life. Prezi is one of my favorite characters, she is a cousin and sister to Sofea, she wants the best for her friend and her calm demeanor compliments Sofea well. Another terrific story from Connilyn Cossette, with a action-packed and tension fraught climax. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. 

Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

A Perfect Amish Match by Vannetta Chapman ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Noah Graber is a content bachelor, but he grudging agrees to go on three dates set up by Amish matchmaker Olivia Mae. But as the dates continue to go disastrously, he begins to wonder if he's been overlooking his best match. 

Olivia Mae is devoted to her grandparents who are starting to have trouble with their memory. She is a strong, responsible young woman and sometimes she struggles to ask others for help. I love how she helped others, and cares so much about the ones that she loves. 

This story had such a fun premise, and great interaction between that characters. It was a delightful read from beginning to end, and I loved how Noah takes the time to spend time with Olivia Mae's grandparents. This book has such a fun unique spin on the Amish romance, and it felt fun and fresh. 

Overall a charming romance, with great faith and touches of humor that brought a smile to my face. An entertaining and enjoyable read. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. 

Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Night Night Bible Stories by Amy Parker and illustrated by Virginia Allyn ~ Review

My Review:

Comprised of 30 Bible stories from both the Old and New Testament, written to be read aloud before bedtime, and accompanied by charming and colorful illustrations.

Each story includes a Bible reference from where the story was taken, as well as a rhyming poem pertaining to the story, and nighttime prayer. The stories have very simplified language, but the print is not large enough for super young readers, so it seems to be a perfect read aloud for pre-school age children.

The illustrations are charming and complement the style of this Bible storybook well. The book is hardcover bound with a slightly padded front cover, with sturdy slick pages that will last well through the years, though best keep out of reach of  babies. This would make an excellent gift for a new young one.

A delightful book that introduces young children to 30 of the most well known stories in the Bible. Perfect for sharing and reading aloud.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Ladies of Intrigue by Michelle Griep ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Who can you trust when no one is who they appear to be?

In The Gentleman Smuggler's Lady, Helen Fletcher travels to Cornwall to comfort her dying father. She is literally swept off her feet by a masked man near the wharf. Who is the man behind the mask, and are his intentions good?

Her father has a strong faith, and encourages Helen throughout the book. I liked the way that Helen and Isaac meet formally, great tension and throughout. Good interaction brings the characters together. I also enjoyed the climactic ending.

In The Doctor's Lady Emmy Nelson is the daughter of a missionary doctor, while Dr. James Clark is a city doctor with his eye on teaching. They find themselves working together at Fort Snelling during the Dakota Uprising.

Dr. James has his path all planned out, he only intends to be in Dakota Territory for a short time before going back to the big city. Emmy is passionate about working with the Indians and helping those in need. She and James work together, but they don't see eye to eye despite their growing attraction.

James and Emmy share their faith, and I like how they both learn to look at things a little differently through the other's eyes. I liked how they got to know each other while working together, and had a strong respect for each other. I admired Emmy and her outgoing and compassionate nature. Overall, a enjoyable read, with great characters.

In A House of Secrets Ladies Aide Society President Amanda Carston wants to do more than knit socks and have teas, she wants to do more to help those in need. She sets her mind on fixing up a run down side of town and attempts to enlist the help of her fiance, Joseph, but he seems to be dragging his feet. Will Joseph's secrets get in the way of Amanda's plans to clean up the city and their relationship?

I like that Amanda has a heart to heart to help others and feels the calling to do more. I admired her passion for her cause. There are many secrets to be revealed, and it definitely kept me guessing. I liked the characters, and this was an enjoyable read.

Overall, a collection of stories that revolve around a secret, all set in different places during different time periods. Each of the stories stand on their own. An enjoyable collection.


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 Governess of Penwythe Hall by Sarah E. Ladd ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

Cordelia Greythorne left Cornwall when she was blamed for the death of her husband. She takes a job as a governess for five children, but when their father dies, she follows her late employers final wishes that she stay with them after they are in the care of their new guardian who resides in Cornwall.

Jac Trethewey is determined to revive his inherited estate, returning it to its former glory, by growing the apple orchards and finding ways to make it profitable. He is surprised when he finds himself the guardian of his estranged brother's five children, and struggles to balance his multitude of responsibilities.

Old secrets rear their ugly heads, will they threaten Delia's chance at happiness?

Delia loves her young charges dearly, and even though she is loathe to return to Cornwall, she honors her employer's wishes. Delia struggles with fear, though on the outside she appears calm and composed. I love that she is close to her family, especially her sister who gives her wise counsel.

Jac inherited an estate, but not much money to go with it. He works hard with his bare hands to make his estate a success. He is an honorable man of integrity, and faith, once he gets over his surprise at their arrive he appreciates how the children have enriched his life. He has big dreams, and is incredibly driven to make his own way in Cornwall. He admires how Delia is able to be assertive and take control of situations that arise with the children.

Overall, a fantastic read, compelling and full of heart, perfect for fans of Poldark. I liked how Delia and Jac worked together and got to know each other through raising the children. There was good tension with the secrets, and the children were all well developed and wonderful characters. I loved the theme of faith over fear. A wonderful read from beginning to end, hard to put down, and with well developed characters and lush scenery.

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."

Justice Mission by Lynette Eason ~ Review

Lucie's Review:

The first in a new series of K-9 adventures!

When Sophie sees a strange man lurking at while she is setting up for the K-9 graduation. She questions the man and gets kidnapped, she escapes but now her boss is missing and someone is still after Sophie.

NYPD Luke Hathaway and his K-9 partner Bruno are on the case, Luke is determined to keep Sophie safe and uncover what is going on.

Sophie is very close to her family, she grew up fast, almost solely responsible for raising her younger brother after the death of their mother. She is very responsible and organized, she is a good friend and comforter in the wake of the turmoil.

Luke has been burned by love in the past, and has never really talked to Sophie before this happened. Luke is a fair man, consistently aloof, he doesn't like to get close to people. He has a strong bond with his dog, Bruno, struggles to break free of his own self-imposed rules.

Actioned-packed from the start, with great tension that had me not wanting to put it down, I almost read it in one sitting! I really liked Luke and Sophie, they get to know each other and work well as a team. They are a good example of opposites attracting, in the ways that they relate to people and are respected, and how they grow in their faith. This book sets up well for the rest of the series, and I can't wait to read the next installment!

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."