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#BookReview: A Mother for His Family by Susanne Dietze

16 Jan

A Mother for His Family is full of charm! Susanne Dietze is a gifted storyteller, painting vivid pictures with her details and descriptions. My heart went out to Lady Helena for all she endured, and I delighted in her relationship with Lord Ardoch. In addition to their story, I was also pleased to revisit Gemma and Tavin from Dietze’s earlier Regency, The Reluctant Guardian. An engaging blend of mystery and romance, I thoroughly enjoyed this marriage of convenience tale!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

Lady Helena Stanhope’s reputation is in tatters…and she’s lost any hope for a “respectable” ton marriage. An arranged union is the only solution. But once Helena weds formidable Scottish widower John Gordon, Lord Ardoch, and encounters his four mischievous children, she’s determined to help her new, ever-surprising family. Even if she’s sure love is too much to ask for.

All John needs is someone to mother his admittedly unruly brood. He never imagined that beautiful Lady Helena would be a woman of irresistible spirit, caring, and warmth. Or that facing down their pasts would give them so much in common. Now, as danger threatens, John will do whatever it takes to convince Helena their future together—and his love—are for always.

Learn more about the book and the author.

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#BookReview: Missing Isaac by Valerie Fraser Luesse

15 Jan

Missing Isaac is a touching tale! The setting and social struggle are vividly portrayed, as Pete McClean comes of age in a small, rural town in 1960s Alabama. The cast of characters is memorable, and their emotional journeys are quite engaging. The events that transpired and the growth of the characters felt authentic, and I appreciated the depth found in the story. Having enjoyed this well-written debut, I look forward to reading more from Valerie Fraser Luesse.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

It is 1965 when black field hand Isaac Reynolds goes missing from the tiny, unassuming town of Glory, Alabama. The townspeople’s reactions range from concern to indifference, but one boy will stop at nothing to find out what happened to his unlikely friend. White, wealthy, and fatherless, young Pete McLean has nothing to gain and everything to lose in his relentless search for Isaac. In the process, he will discover much more than he bargained for. Before it’s all over, Pete–and the people he loves most–will have to blur the hard lines of race, class, and religion. And what they discover about themselves may change some of them forever.

Learn more about the book and the author.

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#BookReview + Movie Premiere: Runaway Romance by Miralee Ferrell

6 Jan

I really enjoyed this unique and charming romance! When a reality television actress finds herself in a Kentucky Amish inn, an unexpected journey of self-discovery begins for both Annie and Hunter. Runaway Romance is a cleverly crafted story and sure to be a delightful TV movie!

Read the book–> http://amzn.to/2F39kNe
Watch the trailer–> http://bit.ly/2lXLZEd

Runaway Romance premieres on UP TV on Sunday, January 7 at 7 pm ET and will air again at the same time on Sunday, January 14.  UP TV is available through the following providers.

DISH: Channel 188
DIRECTV: Channel 338
AT&T: Channels 369/1369
TWC: Channel 124

 

About the book:

Ann Stanway had it all—a starring role in a reality show, an adoring boyfriend, and a sparkling future with limitless possibilities. Until the rules changed and the life she’d thought was real no longer existed. Leaving L.A. seems like her only option, and she lands in Kentucky at a quiet Amish inn—as far removed from her past as possible. Now she knows what was missing in her life–peace, true friendship and, dare she hope, a man who accepts her for who she is–or at least who he thinks she is.

Hunter Lewis is intrigued by the new woman staying at his friend’s Amish inn. Annie appears to be what she claims, but she’s secretive and won’t open up. He’s been burned by a woman before and can’t tolerate deception. But his interest in Annie is growing, and the attraction seems to be mutual—until something happens that makes Hunter question everything he’d thought was real. Dare he risk his heart, when he’s certain Annie is keeping secrets?

Can their new romance withstand the pressure, or will Ann choose to run again?

I received a complimentary copy of this e-book.  No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.  

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#BookReview: Prayers for a Heart-Shaped Life by Karen Moore

3 Jan

Prayers for a Heart-Shaped Life reminds us of the importance of sharing our heart with our Heavenly Father. I have enjoyed reading Moore’s encouraging thoughts and prayers and am endeavoring to be more purposeful in my own daily prayer life. “As it says in James 4:8 (NKJV), ‘Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.’” Including more than 200 prayers, Prayers for a Heart-Shaped Life is a lovely book and an inspiration for greater heartfelt living and prayer.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

Inspired by 1 Corinthians 13:2: “If I had the gift of prophecy and knew all about what is going to happen in the future, knew everything about everything, but didn’t love others, what good would it do?” . . .the Heart-Shaped Life series will encourage you to live life “heart first.”

Prayers for a Heart-Shaped Life features more than 200 prayers that will inspire you to draw closer to your heavenly Father as you spend time in quiet conversation with the author of Love Himself. Each refreshing prayer and related scripture selection will help you discover the best path to the good life. . .which is LOVE.

Learn more about Prayers for a Heart-Shaped Life.  

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#BookReview: Troubled Waters by Susan May Warren

3 Jan

Troubled Waters is an action-packed tale of adventure and romance! I have been anticipating Ian and Sierra’s story since this series began, and it did not disappoint. Fraught with drama and danger, their journey culminates with some very powerful life lessons. In addition to their emotional story, I also enjoyed the glimpses into Pete and Jess’s relationship and am eager for more as this exciting series continues. While each of the Montana Rescue stories can be read independently, the progressing storylines make reading them in order even more enjoyable. Susan May Warren brings her characters to life, and I love reading their stories!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

Billionaire Ian Shaw can have everything he wants–except a happy ending. Or at least that’s what it feels like with his fortune recently liquidated, his niece, Esme, still missing, and the woman he loves refusing to speak to him. In fact, he doubts she would date him even if they were stranded on a deserted island.

Despite her love for Ian, Sierra Rose knows he has no room in his life for her as long as the mystery of his missing niece goes unsolved. The only problem is, Sierra has solved it, but a promise to Esme to keep her whereabouts secret has made it impossible to be around Ian.

When the PEAK chopper is damaged and Sierra lacks the funds to repair it, Ian offers a fundraising junket for large donors on his yacht in the Caribbean. But the three-day excursion turns into a nightmare when a rogue wave cripples the yacht and sends the passengers overboard. Shaken up and soaked to the bone, Ian finally has a chance to test his theory when he and Sierra do indeed find themselves washed up on a strange, empty shore.

It will take guts and gumption for the PEAK team to rescue the duo. But it will take a miracle to rescue Ian and Sierra’s relationship.

Learn more about the book and the author.

 

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#BookReview: Dangerous Illusions by Irene Hannon

5 Dec

Irene Hannon kicks off the Code of Honor series with a gripping tale! Trish and Colin’s story kept me up late turning the pages, as dangerous and deadly events unfolded. I thoroughly enjoyed the intricacy of the plot and the clever characterization, and I am eager to continue this exciting new series. Intriguing and unexpected, Dangerous Illusions is a great romantic suspense!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

Trish Bailey is on overload trying to deal with a demanding job, an ailing mother, and a healing heart. When a series of unsettling memory lapses leads to a tragic death–and puts Trish under police scrutiny–her world is once again thrown into turmoil.

Detective Colin Flynn isn’t certain what to think of the facts he uncovers during his investigation. Did Trish simply make a terrible mistake or is there more to the case than meets the eye? As he searches for answers, disturbing information begins to emerge–and if the forces at work are as evil as he suspects, the situation isn’t just dangerous . . . it’s deadly.

Learn more about the book and the author.

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#BookReview: Christy by Catherine Marshall

5 Dec

I had the pleasure of reading Christy for the first time as this timeless classic celebrates its 50th anniversary. What a beautiful story! Wonderfully told with imagery and emotion, a time and way of life are vividly portrayed as the characters spring to life on the page. I was captivated by Christy’s dramatic journey and loved the pearls of wisdom and life lessons shared in her story. Christy is a heartfelt and memorable tale!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

The train taking nineteen-year-old teacher Christy Huddleston from her home in Asheville, North Carolina, might as well be transporting her to another world. The Smoky Mountain community of Cutter Gap feels suspended in time, trapped by poverty, superstitions, and century-old traditions.

But as Christy struggles to find acceptance in her new home, some see her — and her one-room school — as a threat to their way of life. Her faith is challenged and her heart is torn between two strong men with conflicting views about how to care for the families of the Cove.

Yearning to make a difference, will Christy’s determination and devotion be enough?

Learn more, download a free map of Cutter Gap, and purchase a copy.

Read what other bloggers are saying about Christy.

 

About the author:

Catherine Marshall (1914-1983), The New York Times best-selling author of 30 books, is best known for her novel Christy. Based on the life of her mother, Christy captured the hearts of millions and became a popular CBS television series. Around the kitchen table at Evergreen Farm, as her mother reminisced, Catherine probed for details and insights into the rugged lives of these Appalachian highlanders. Catherine shared the story of her husband, Dr. Peter Marshall, Chaplain of the United States Senate, in A Man Called Peter. A decade after Dr. Marshall’s untimely death, Catherine married Leonard LeSourd, Executive Editor of Guideposts, forging a dynamic writer-editor partnership. A beloved inspirational writer and speaker, Catherine’s enduring career spanned four decades and reached over 30 million readers.

Find out more about Catherine at http://gileadpublishing.com/christy/.

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#BookReview: Too Far Down by Mary Connealy

15 Nov

Connealy’s books are always a pleasure to read, and Too Far Down is no exception! The story begins with a bang, and the action and adventure continue until the very end. I enjoyed Cole and Mel’s story with its delightful blend of danger, romance, faith, and family. Although it is not a necessity, reading this series in order is recommended for a greater understanding of the ongoing storyline. Too Far Down is a great conclusion to the Cimarron Legacy series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thought expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

When an explosion kills men and damages the CR Mining Company, the Bodens realize their troubles are not behind them as they thought. Shadowy forces are still working against them.

Cole Boden finds himself caught between missing his time back East and all that New Mexico offers. Sure he fights with his siblings now and then, but he does care for them. He enjoys running the mine and, when he’s honest, he admits that Melanie Blake captures his interest in a way no other woman ever has.

Melanie has been a friend to the Bodens forever. A cowgirl who is more comfortable with horses and lassoes than people, she never expected to find herself falling for someone. Particularly for refined Cole Boden, a Harvard graduate who may not stay long at the ranch. She’s determined, however, to help the Bodens finally put an end to the danger that’s threatened all of them. But will putting herself in harm’s way be more dangerous than anyone expected?

Learn more about the book and the author.

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#BookReview: Cherished Mercy by Tracie Peterson

14 Nov

Cherished Mercy is a compelling tale! Peterson drew me in with her wonderful storytelling, and my emotions were stirred by the dramatic story that unfolded. A frontier adventure brimming with love, loss, faith, and forgiveness, this poignant story is one I very much enjoyed.

Although I have not read the first book in this series, I have read Book 2, Beloved Hope, and was eager to continue the storyline in Cherished Mercy. I do hope to read Book 1, Treasured Grace, as I would like to learn more about the characters and the beginning of their journeys.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

About the book:

Mercy Flanagan survived the Whitman Massacre as a child, and now her heart’s cry is for peace between the native peoples and the white settlers inhabiting Oregon Territory. Unfortunately, most of the settlers would rather the tribes were removed from the land completely, one way or the other, and tensions are rising. Mercy has grown tired of Oregon City and feels that she has a larger purpose in life, so when she learns that family friend Eletta Browning is pregnant, she travels south to the Rogue River Valley to help.

At the Rogue River Mission, Mercy meets Eletta’s brother-in-law, Adam, who has suffered a broken engagement. Mercy finds him attractive, but Adam seems determined to focus on ministering to the local tribes and keeps Mercy at arm’s length.

When tragedy strikes and tensions in the territory reach the boiling point, Mercy is pushed to the limit of her strength. She and Adam must rely on their firm faith in God in order to make it out alive.

Learn more about the book and the author.

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#BookReview: The Gift by Shelley Shepard Gray | 5 Book #Giveaway

13 Nov

I love returning to the Amish community of Hart County and especially enjoyed doing so at Christmas! It is a pleasure to revisit past characters, as well as meet new ones, as Gray brings another compelling story to life. When accidents occur and danger threatens, Susanna Schwartz and Neil Vance are drawn together in unexpected ways. A great blend of suspense and romance, I thoroughly enjoyed The Gift and look forward to continuing this intriguing series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

 

Enter to win a copy of The Gift. Five winners will be chosen! Click the image below to enter to win. The winners will be announced November 22nd on the Litfuse blog!

 

About the book:

The Schwartz family is happy to be spending Christmas on their new farm in Hart County. But when Susanna Schwartz hears gunshots that causes her buggy to overturn, and then her little sister falls through a wooden bridge into the icy creek, it becomes clear from these dangerous “accidents” that someone wants them gone.

Neil Vance has been heartbroken ever since his parents lost their family farm. He knows it’s not the Schwartz family’s fault, but he can’t help but be resentful. Until he meets Susanna. She is kind-hearted and bold, and Neil can’t stop thinking about her pretty green eyes.

Neil thinks the accidents are just that, but Susanna’s father is convinced the Vance family is responsible. Susanna refuses to believe Neil would do anything to harm her. She’s fallen in love with him and knows he is a good man. But her family is ready to pack up and move, and time is running out to uncover the truth before someone gets hurt . . . or worse.

Learn more and purchase a copy.

Read what other bloggers are saying about The Gift.

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