Face-to-Face with Lois and Eunice

Face-to-Face with Lois and Eunice: Nurturing Faith in Your Family by Janet Thompson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Excellent "workbook" to read and be the leader/mentor God wants us to be. Just like Paul encouraged Timothy and Lois encouraged Eunice, we can encourage others. You ask how, read this fantastic "guide" if you will and you will feel God calling you in so many places you will be so blessed.

Do this by yourself at first, and then be the mentor you and I were called to be and use the wonderful group guide at the back. And stand back and watch God move ---

So many wonderful inspirational statements here, I didn't want to list them. What might have caught my eye might not catch your's. Just take the leap and don't look back. God is calling all of us, yes even YOU.

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All I Want is You

All I Want Is You by Sherrill Bodine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Spicy! From beginning to end, Sherrill keeps the edge and makes this book an absolute joy to read! Venus Clayworth can't figure out why the Clayworth's fired her father and why he was taking it -- However, she finds it hard to be mad every time Connor Clayworth O'Flynn walks into the room though. When Venus acquires a jeweled mermaid brooch, and finds out it might be a stolen piece from a long time ago, can her and Connor work together in peace to solve the mystery of the brooch and maybe also Venus can find out why her dad was fired, without falling in love with Connor?

With these stories, of course we always know boy gets girl in the end, or does he? The mystery of who really is the thief and why Alastair was fired will have you NOT putting this book down till the last word. I am hooked on Bodine's writing. I couldn't help but laugh throughout the book and she does such a good job making you feel as if you NEED more!!

Good book to read curled up on a Saturday afternoon! Enjoy with your favorite cup of spicy tea!

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WWW Wednesdays

I know I know, it is Thursday, but I thought I would get in the habit of doing these posts. So for my WWW Wednesdays.. here it is. What I read this past week? --A Town Called Valentine by Emma Cane (see review) A good book, Valentine is a place you go and don't want to leave. And word is that there will be a book following this one!! --The Snow Angel by Glenn Beck -- Good good book, see review but highly recommend it! What am I reading now? 13 by Wendy Mass -- cute YA book! What will I be reading this week? -- Lost December by Richard Paul Evans -- Inseparable by Dora Heldt -- The Flight of Gemma Haredy by Margot Livesey -- Wrapped in Rain by Charles Martin

Review: The Snow Angel

The Snow Angel by Glenn Beck
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Perfect Christmas reading! This story was so amazing, I had to stop several times and tell my family members. I thought at first, oh another sappy Christmas story.

But this one hits home, in way or another for everyone I am sure.

We alternate between 2 different people, Mitch who is an elderly man, obviously has Alzheimers, living in an assisted living facility.

Then we have Rachel who is married to Cyrus and has one daughter. Cyrus is a jerk. As you will find out.

What Mitch and Rachel have to do together, I will let you find out. It is a beautiful story of two humans through life, and a bunch of other messages .. too many to tell!

Just read it!!!

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Review: A Town Called Valentine

A Town Called Valentine: A Valentine Valley Novel by Emma Cane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

From the first moment we arrived in Valentine Valley, I felt as if I was at home! All the characters have such a warmness that you can't help but love Emma Cane's newest book -- A Town Called Valentine..

We start out with Emily Murphy coming to town to see the property that was left to her when her mother passed away in a car accident. Her car breaks down and so she stops at this local watering hole. Only to run into Nate, who is Valentine's flirt.

Of course we can all guess the storyline -- but you won't guess the little mystery thrown in and you will enjoy the ride. It will end WAY TOO soon .. it did for me anyway.

This book was perfect to just curl up with on a cold day. It will make you warm just reading it.. believe you me!!! Enjoy!

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Review: Home Front

Home Front by Kristin Hannah
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I waited forever for this book... doesn't it seem like that with all the good ones?? I am soooo going to carry this book with me for awhile. Kristin Hannah writes about subjects that are very in-depth -- I know with Winter Garden I needed tissues after reading the ending. With Home Front, you will need tissues throughout! Just sayin!

We meet Jolene and Michael. Married with 2 girls. Michael is a defense attorney and Jolene is a woman helicopter pilot for the Guard. Michael has taken Jolene for granted and not really been there for her. It all comes to a head one night when he tells her he doesn't love her anymore. The VERY next day, she gets orders to go to Iraq.

Michael and the girls are all feeling different emotions, but Michael doesn't have a change of heart then. Can you imagine? Your wife or husband going to Iraq, who knows if they will return or not? And you don't tell them you were sorry and love them and support them.

So what happens from there? READ IT! You will tell everyone to read it after you are done. I never really thought about what happens when they come home. However, even though they are back in the States with such trauma as they are put into over there, PTSD is real over here.

More importantly, what are we doing to support our troops when they come home? That is a good question for all of us to ponder!

Thanks Kristin, for another outstanding read! Any book that makes you think like this, is an excellent book in my opinion!

I received this book for free from Amazon in exchange for my honest opinion.

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Review: Single in the City

Outstanding! If you read one more book this year, let this one be THE ONE!!! You won't be sorry. Hannah is like each one of us. You will love her fly-by-the-seat-of-her-pants attitude, which she has from beginning to end. I mean who does that? Who flies to another country, not knowing anyone, just wanting something different?? You tend to think everyone is like us, in the US. But they aren't! Totally different meanings to words -- This book will have you laughing and laughing, and reading parts to whoever is around you, if you can stop laughing! Hannah makes a life for herself over in London. She never gives up her quest to find Mr Right.. her adventures will make you want to pack a bag and follow her! Will you follow her on her next adventure?? I know I will. If you read this, you will find out what Michele has in store for us readers... Don't miss out!!!! You will miss out on a book that you will be sorry you didn't read!

Review: Happy Birthday

Happy Birthday by Danielle Steel
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Danielle Steel writes what women want to read. Sometimes I find it being the same thing, over and over and over. However, I really enjoyed this book.

We have three main people we get their points of view from. One is Valerie, a woman who turned 60, but bases her work from her image. Image is everything when you are in the media. Valerie has built a social empire of decorating guru. She could give Martha Stewart a run for her money. Then we have Valerie's daughter, April, who runs April in New York. One of the best restaurants around. Finally we have Jack, a former NFL player who now does interviews, commentaries etc for the network. All three of them share birthdays and a work ethic like none other.

When a tragedy happens at the network, it has bonded Jack and Valerie. April has her own issues. I don't want to ruin it for anyone, but it really was enjoyable to read --- of course you have your classic man/woman scenarios, but it works!

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Review: Miles To Go

Miles to Go by Richard Paul Evans
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Outstanding. I don't want to wait for Part 3!!! I want to find out now what happens next.

I didn't read The Walk, but I know I will be picking that up asap just so I can get a better picture. However, Miles To Go can stand alone as well. You get enough blurbs to be able to follow along and not be confused as to what happened before this part..

In this part, Alan has decided to walk from Seattle to Key West after his wife dies, his partner stole all of his clients, he lost his house; basically all came falling down on him. However, right outside of Spokane he is attacked by a group of guys and is stabbed. The only number the police could find on him was a card from a lady he helped fix her tires, Angel.

Angel seems to be an angel to Alan, but Alan might be an angel to her as well.

I won't say anymore, I don't want to ruin one bit of it for anyone, so go now, get it and read it! You will love it just as much as me!

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Review: Lost Melody

Lost Melody: A Novel by Lori Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

More than I expected! I expected a general story, but it sucked me in from the very beginning. Jill is just a character that I didn't expect to like so much, but with her honest attitude you find yourself holding your breath alongside her, seeing what will come of her prediction/warning.

Jill is an on the rise piano player, who was injured in a subway accident and hasn't played the piano since. She moved back home to the town of Seaside Cove and has basically hidden. Then all of the sudden close the anniversary of the accident, she has a dream in which there is fire and destruction. After having it a couple of times, it becomes clear to her that this is a glimpse of something that is going to happen.

She feels as if she needs to warn the town. However, she chooses the moment that may not have been the best. During her fiance's open forum meeting. Now, to a lot of people she is a loon. Will Greg stand behind her or will he think she is as crazy as other people think.

Jill gains a lot more through this situation and it parallels Jonah and the whale. Jonah didn't do what God wanted him to do, so he learned the hard way. Will everyone heed her warning?

You will also learn what sets Jill free of her pain over the accident as well. Virginia Smith and Lori Copeland make a perfect writing team!

I received a copy of this book for free in exchanging for my unbiased opinion.

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Review: Tea and Destiny

Tea and Destiny: Tea and Destiny\Light the Stars by Sherryl Woods
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sherryl Woods = classic. That is all you can say about every one of her books.

Sure you can argue that it is always the same ole story. Man and woman meet, they go around and around love, there is a big explosion and you think they will NEVER get together and then everything is roses.

But with Sherryl, the ride is so much fun. She always finds a way to make it so enjoyable, you have to pick up and read EVERY single one of her books. Always her characters are a joy to read and get to know. Each have a distinct personality.

In this one, the foster children add a special something to the book. I really enjoyed it from that perspective especially. Sherryl just really knows what readers love to read.

I found myself having read this book in one setting, in a couple of hours as a matter of fact! Enjoy, a lazy afternoon read!

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Review: The Giver

The Giver by Lois Lowry
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Outstanding book! What a concept, this world of Sameness. No hills, no sunshine, no rain, no snow.. No love, or other emotions we experience on a daily basis. A woman and man are paired together, they get each one boy and one girl.. job assignments.. Another big one is NO color..

What happens if you should get "released"? Lots of questions will be answered in this book.

When you are a "twelve" you get your job assignments. Jonas is so excited, but at the ceremony he is passed over. At first he is embarrassed but then he gets the greatest honor of all. To be a "receiver". Jonas has no clue what that is about, but what it is is, the "receiver" gets all the memories, good and bad and keeps them so that if the community has a question, they can go to the receiver and see if their idea is a good or bad one, because they know everything about why they made the rules the way they are, because of pain, hurt etc.

I hope I can explain it half as good as the book does. LOVED this story. I won't say any more, but if you haven't read this book YET, order it RIGHT now! You won't want to put it down! I recommend this book to everyone!

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Review: Heaven is for Real

Heaven is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back by Todd Burpo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A must read.. It should be a requirement.. everywhere! At first, I know we are all skeptics. Yea sure some kid thinks he saw God, angels blah blah blah. BUT... read this book. Your mind will be forever changed.

If you don't believe in God, then I wouldn't hestitate to read this book. If you still don't then let me know, I will pray for you.

I think the book speaks for itself. I am so glad that they finally did write it. God will use this book and family in amazing ways -- what a wonderful gift to give to everyone this Christmas. Not only a good story, what a testimony!

Todd Burpo keeps it real, but shares his family's story and struggles. You will laugh and cry while reading, all at the same time. Afterward your family won't be able to keep you quiet, you will want to share this story with each person you meet. I do!

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Review: The Dressmaker Of Khair Khana

Review: The Dressmaker Of Khair Khana by Gayle Lemmon A glimpse into the people that lived in fear of the Taliban. An eye opener for sure. However, I wish it would have been more about the women instead of so many facts. I am not really a facts kind of girl. I do like a bit little but this was over the top. When rumors of the Taliban come true, women must give up all they are doing, schooling, working .. everything and stay inside. If they must go outside, they must have a male escort. They must wear the chadri and they must not talk to any other man. Well, most of the men are going to fight in the war and so that leaves the women, with no way to really work. So Kamila and her sisters start sewing dresses for stores and other women. What Kamila does for so many women is what probably saved a lot of them, their families incomes as well as their sanity. I loved their story, I just wish it would have been a bit more of them, instead of so many general facts.

Review: The Best of Me

The Best of Me by Nicholas Sparks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mediocre. Just so so. Read the same storyline time after time.

Dawson and Amanda were high school sweethearts. Sweethearts never really meant to be. Dawson came from a long line of rule breakers and felons. Amanda came from a higher class family who was relieved when Amanda and Dawson stopped seeing each other.

Both are drawn back to the town of Oriental, North Carolina when Tuck, an older gentleman that had befriended both of them passes away and requests they come and scatter his ashes.

What happens ends up being a really intriguing book and a bit of a twist here and there. But we have seen this same ole line from Sparks over and over. Please think up something a bit different next time, please!

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Review: The Hunchback of Neiman Marcus

The Hunchback of Neiman Marcus: A Novel About Marriage, Motherhood, and Mayhem by Sonya Sones
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hilarious, witty and engaging. This book will have you laughing, crying and nodding your head the whole time. It is written in a really unique way. At first I wasn't sure I liked it, but I didn't just like it, I loved it! She kept it short and simple.

Our main character Holly is about to become an empty nester, their only daughter leaving to go to college -- At the same time, she starts going through menopause, her mother gets sick and she thinks her husband is having an affair. Also, she is supposed to be writing but with everything going on, how can she possibly get anything done?

We all have been there. Motherhood, being a daughter, wife and mother are all very time consuming and mentally exhausting at times, but like Holly, we realize what is really important and there are temporary hiccups in life.

I recommend this book to everyone! Especially if you are about to send your children off into the world.

I received an electronic copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.

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Review: Light from a Distant Star

Light from a Distant Star: A Novel by Mary McGarry Morris
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Don't get me wrong, this was a good book. Great, no. Not knock-your-socks-off great. One that if you want to go to the beach or read on a lazy weekend yes, not staying up all night ignoring everything book. Nellie is an endearing young lady that quickly grows on you. She has an older sister Ruth and a younger brother Henry. Henry and Nellie do a lot of things together. They both from the descriptions seem rather nerdy. With her glasses fogging up all the time etc. Cracks me up when I read it...

Nellie's grandfather Charlie is a gruff old man, who owns a junkyard in the middle of town. The town thinks it is an eyesore but it stays regardless. One day a man is there and lives in the barn, doing odd jobs for Charlie. Max seems nice but a bit quiet. However, one day shortly after they meet him, a dog tries to attack Henry and Max hits it on the head with a hammer and kills it.

Nellie's parents are dysfuntional, but not really bad. Just no communication and that makes it interesting in their home. They have an extra little apartment type thing in their house, and the family owned hardware store isn't making any money, so they have got to get this apartment rented. They finally rent to a young lady who isn't from their town, her aunt works at the beauty salon with the mom. Dolly works as a dancer at a strip club. Dolly in herself is a bit strange.

Not going to give any more away, but when all these collide, what will be left is a tragedy and all the different emotions people go through after something like that. Go ahead, read it! Cheer Nellie on!!!

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Review: Shine

Shine by Lauren Myracle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a book that will stay with me for a LONG time. Shine, is written so beautifully that you immediately fall in love with our main character, Cat a sixteen year old girl living in the south. Cat's former best guy friend Patrick, was found beaten and tied to a gas pump with a gas nozzle in his mouth and something written on his chest in blood.

In a small town of 700 some, I am sure the officers feel a sense that they might know who did this terrible crime, but if they charge someone, repercussions might be more than they want to deal with.

However Cat has a different plan. She wants to know who did this terrible thing. At the same time, it is a journey for her to figure out why exactly she stopped being friend with Patrick and the others.

Told in the southern voice I love, you can't help wanting to go on this journey with Cat. Kept me guessing till the very end -- Subject material I wasn't sure about at the beginning, but Cat's point of view isn't about sexual preference or right/wrong, it is about human compassion -- Brilliant book, read it! It will stay with you for a long time.

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Tuesday Teaser

Grab your current read. Let the book fall open to a random page. Share with us two (2) sentences from that page, somewhere between lines 7 and 12. You also need to share the title of the book that you’re getting your “teaser” from … that way people can have some great book recommendations if they like the teaser you’ve given! So my read comes from

"Nellie thought a moment. Well because the more she defended Max, the more upset everyone got with her. "I don't know, it's just all so kind of, you know... freaky." " What is your teaser for today?

Mailbox Mondays

It's Mailbox Monday time! Mailbox Monday is going on tour and October is being hosted by Serena of Savvy Verse and Wit! Mailbox Monday is the gathering place for readers to share the books that came into their house last week (checked out library books don’t count, eBooks and audio books do). Warning: Mailbox Monday can lead to envy, toppling TBR piles and humongous wish lists! I received The Angel Makers by Jessica Gregson,

The Fine Art of Insincerity by Angela Hunt

, The Dry Grass of August by Anna Jean Mayhew

and The Talk of the Town by Fran Baker.

I am looking forward to reading all of these!

Review: Falling Together

Falling Together by Marisa de los Santos
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Pen, Will and Cat all met in college. But for six years they haven't seen one another, talked, nothing. They all promised not to check up on each other, just get a clean break. However when Pen and Will get a message from Cat to meet her at the reunion, they both are apprehensive but go in the end. It isn't Cat that sent them the notes though, it is Cat's estranged husband, Jason. A meathead if you will. Will and Pen greatly dislike Jason, but he asks them for help finding Cat.

When finding Cat seems to be the most important thing on this trip to the Phillistines, I think everyone finds a bit more of themselves. Marisa de los Santos writes with such descriptions you will feel like you are snorkeling with them, or at the santucary seeing the tiny monkeys, or traveling in one of the seats besides them on the plane.

Pen is one of the best characters I have come across in awhile. She is full of life, love and comes full circle dealing with her father's death, her love for her daughter's dad, Patrick and I think they all come away with new insights into life.

I am not going to spoil it for you and tell you if they found Cat, but what is more important is what they came back to the States with! Enjoy!!!

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Review: An O'Brien Christmas

An O'Brien Family Christmas by Sherryl Woods
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book really was different from the usual back and forth girl and guy get together/fall apart etc. In this book, which left off of Beach Lane in which Susie promises Gram that they will all go to Ireland for Christmas to celebrate Susie and Mack getting married.

Well we all knew that Matthew and Laila would be the ones in the majority of the book but in her usual style, Sherryl Woods doesn't disappoint us with a peek of maybe who we might see in the next book, either Gram and her beau from Ireland or maybe Luke with one of the girls... I guess we get to sit on it for awhile and wait!

I loved as usual the whole family interacting and all full of love. Even though they might seem meddling and just down right nosy, this is a family I think we all secretly want to be a part of. Heck yes I would like to become an O'Brien! LOL

And that is when you KNOW you have read a good book, if you feel like they are family.

I received this ebook for free from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

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Review: Beach Lane

Beach Lane by Sherryl Woods
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beach Lane is my favorite Cedar Cove books! I always feel like I am returning to Cedar Cove as one of the family each time we visit. Each time we visit someone new is falling in love with someone else and we see them banter back and forth and it all ties up into a very nice bow at the end, which Sherryl Woods has crafted so well.

But this time in Beach Lane we have 2 get together only to battle life, not each other. I think it is different from all the books. Mack and Susie are my favorites! A few times I caught myself cry, the book is just so heartwarming and true to life.

Susie is fighting for her life, finding out she has ovarian cancer; while Mack is trying to figure out who he is if he isn't a sports writer. Can they work it all out and be together?

Find out all in this book, and of course Sherryl doesn't disappoint, giving us a sneak peek of who might be showing up in An O'Brien Family Christmas!

View all my reviews I received a copy of this book from the publisher on netgalley.com

It's Monday!

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Haven't been able to post on here but I wanted to see if I could. So I finished Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers last week. Excellent book. Recommend it to everyone.

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Reading right now: The Very Picture of You by Isabel Wolff - on page 141 out of 305 -- Isabel Wolff is a master storyteller -- if you didn't pick up her last book, A Vintage Affair you are missing out! Don't forget to get this new one when it comes out as well. It is so good you can't put down.

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On my list to read this week:

1. All the Flowers in Shanghai by Duncan Jepson
2. The Gap Year by Sarah Bird
3. The Grief of Others by Leah Hager Cohen
4. The Train of Small Mercies by David Rowell
5. All Our Worldly Goods by Irene Nemirovsky
6. The Legacy by Katherine Webb
7. Healing Hearts by Beth Wiseman

Hope you all have a fantastic week! Can't wait to share next week!

Review: Plain Proposal

Plain Proposal by Beth Wiseman

Plain Proposal was anything but plain. Beth Wiseman is an expert writer in that she knows what readers really want in a book. Something that makes us think, doesn't use foul language and leads us more and more toward our Lord and Savior. She delivers every time.

In this next part of the series, Shelby is an "English" young woman who has had a troubled life since her parents divorce and is being sent to live with her Amish relatives. Miriam and her parents are not sure what to expect when Shelby arrives. Will she be a good influence on Miriam or a negative one?

Miriam has been in love with Saul Fisher for as long as she can remember. What joy to find out maybe he feels the same way. However, Saul wants to leave the only way they have ever known to live and go to live amongst the "English".

Lots of other little sideline stories going on in here as well, Beth weaves everything so well you just gobble up the story, and before you know it it is over way too soon!

(ebook received for free from publisher)

Review: Sisterhood Everlasting

Sisterhood Everlasting by Ann Brashares

They are back! Better than ever, 10 years later.. My 4 favorite young ladies have grown up, and although a large part of the book is a mystery, by the end it will all click.

Heartbreaking, but we all know life goes on so this book will have you wanting more..loving EVERY word and minute you read. Ann Brashares knows what readers want and she gave it to us.

Each one of them have endearing qualities I love. I feel like there could be another, so many loose ends in a sense..

I don't want to give away anything so I am not going to go into what happened in the book, I want you to read and find out. Just know that your time will NOT be wasted if you are a fan!!

Review: The Mice of Bistrot des Sept Frères

The Mice of Bistrot des Sept Frères by Marie Letourneau

Couldn't ask for a better subject! Mice and cooking. A family that has a restaurant wants to make the best cheese soup, each having their own part. VERY cute story, with French thrown in the mix, lots of fun to read outloud over and over.

The pictures were very delightful and excellent. Doesn't downplay to kids, but makes it fun to learn french and a good story of working together to achieve a shared goal!

received ebook for free to review by publisher

Review: Magnolia Wednesdays

Magnolia Wednesdays by Wendy Wax

Cute, typical but a good fluff read. Vivi is an independent woman who lives an edgy lifestyle as a journalist. She fancies herself a wonderful writer and a single independent woman. However the bottom drops out of her life when she is replaced by someone younger, shot in the buttocks and surprise surprise she is pregnant.

So she heads home, as we all do when the going gets rough. She doesn't tell anyone in her family she is pregnant or she is writing this article anon. about surburbia and the crazy people in it.

Then she thinks there is something fishy about her brother-in-law's "accidental" death and investigates secretly. However, we must all remember our secrets catch up with us and they might hurt more than help.

Also, Vivi's boyfriend Stone is a reporter as well and is overseas at the time so Vivi doesn't tell him she is pregnant with their baby, so how will it all end?

I am sure you can guess, which takes some of the fun out of it. A few surprises mixed in, but generally a story you can breeze through and doesn't really take your breath away...

Review: Clutches and Curses

Clutches and Curses by Dorothy Howell

Ended excellent. I wasn't so sure about Haley at first, she seemed to be a spoiled woman, shopping and drinking frapps nonstop without a work ethic was driving me crazy. But somewhere along this cute little mystery, she grew on me and I am very sad it ended. I can't wait to pick up more Haley!

When Haley's mom wants her to fill in at the mother daughter week spa thing, she decided to go to Vegas on the spur to help the department store she works for get a new store together. Haley doesn't have much of a work ethic -- but that doesn't stop her from finding bodies! What is worse is the person that was murdered is a classmate from high school, one Haley was supposed to stay with. When that puts her on the detective's radar, Haley has a reason to find out as much as they do who really murdered Courtney.

This was a pretty believable story and Haley will grow on you with her milkshakes and her funny ways. She made me laugh out loud too many times, which makes it a extra thumbs up in my opinion! Can't wait to read backwards in the series now and I hope there are more Haley adventures in the future!

Review: Her Sister's Shadow

Her Sister's Shadow by Katharine Britton

Thoroughly enjoyed this story about 4 sisters and the different places our lives go based on decisions we make, whether they be good or bad. Lilli hasn't gone home since 1968 or so and now it is 2009. Her sister Bea that is 9 years older than her calls to say that her husband, Randall passed and would Lilli come home for the funeral. Lilli does, but it brings many memories back, most being terrible but not all. What it does for everyone heals hearts quite a bit in the end I think.

This book took several turns for me, and I enjoyed each one. Savored this book, it seemed to end way too quick.

For Katharine's first book, she really outdid herself. I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next. I love these types of stories, I couldn't wait to find out why Lilli didn't want to go home and what happened between her and Bea. Charlotte wasn't in the story much but I grew to love each one. Beautiful story is all I have to say!

Review: The Four Ms. Bradwells

The Four Ms Bradwells by Meg Waide Clayton

Well my thoughts are really scattered on this book. I would have really enjoyed the characters, they were developed very well. I just had a hard time keeping track of who was who, who was doing what...back and forth and all over the place.

The legal jargon and political stuff really made it not interesting for me. Sometimes I enjoy it but it just didn't click for me this time.

That being said, I really enjoyed the idea of the book and all the ladies were developed well. I felt like it built up, and then the climax wasn't as great as I hoped for. I was hoping the note would say something monumental but... alas we can't have everything our way, so I will read on with her next book and hope for better!

Review: Pie Town

Lynne Hinton is an excellent author. With that being said, I love stories in the south. This one takes place in New Mexico. Now don't get me wrong, stories can be anywhere but I love the southern feel and charm.

This one just seemed like we knew where it was headed, and it wrapped up with a neat bow.

The characters are likable, not lovable. I couldn't get close to any of them. They all were just within reach of my fingertips but not attainable. Oris did make me laugh, but I wonder where his humor went at the end? Gone.. just like the storyline.

Of course, in Pie Town, no pies! Maybe just like George and Trina blew in, maybe things will "blow" differently in Pie Town and things will change. However it might take some pretty drastic things for the hard-hearted citizens of Pie Town to change. I think the town I live in is JUST like this town however, it made me laugh to think there could be some of those same people here! Very hard to get to know, they just want life and everything to stay the same and no one new for heaven's sake!

The recipes in back are excellent and the reading group guide makes it easy to read and enjoy with your local book club!

Review: Kindred Spirits

Kindred Spirits by Sarah Strohmeyer

A must for book clubs or anyone that loves a good friendship story! With a little sideline of love, mother/daughter relationships...all that good jazz, Sarah gives it to us in one great story called Kindred Spirits. When Lynne takes her life after dealing with cancer and knowing there is nothing else to be done, she has her remaining 3 friends take care of her personal possessions and leaves them with a letter and a few things to do for her, including tell her mother that she hadn't talked to in many years.

Also a letter to her daughter that her mother talked her into giving up when she was a young girl. While on this journey for Lynne, they all have personal journeys of their own. Beth is the one that will be hardest hit, she lived next door to Lynne. Who will she take care of now and who will take care of her?

Carol divorced her husband and moved to the city to practice law, but is that what Carol wants after returning? Will Jeff want to try again as well?

Mary Kay thinks she can't have children but has never told her boyfriend Drake and now he wants to get married and have children, what is MK going to do?

You will LOVE these ladies. They are the best, you wish they lived close to you! A must read for 2011!

Review: Blackberry Summer

Blackberry Summer by Raeanne Thayne


Good book.... same ole thing though. I don't really like when you can guess what is going to happen.

Oh the journey was great though. Claire Bradford is a single mom of 2. Her ex-husband and new YOUNG wife live in the same small town as her .. The new wife, Holly, and Claire get along ok, just a little bit strange. Claire tries to get along for the kids sake.

When her best friend's little brother, Riley, comes back to town to be the new police chief, things stir up between her and Riley. With Riley being a player though, would he be any good with Claire?

Don't get me wrong, it is a good book. Even though you know from the beginning what is going to happen, we all love the journey and places books take us. Make sure you check out other books by this author as well!

Review: Made to Crave

Made to Crave by Lysa TerKeurst

Made to Crave is about our cravings, but are we craving the right things? Lysa brings up and talks about many things that will have you changing your way of thinking. It isn't about going on the latest diet or some crazy fad, it is about changing your ways of thinking.

About craving Him and not the whole pan of brownies. I have always been a firm believer in it isn't what you eat, but how much. Even if you really don't struggle with your weight, this is a good book for everyone. Maybe you crave something other than food..Crave Him more...

Lysa is a wonderful source of inspiration for me and I recommend this book to all my friends! In addition, if you get the workbook and also the study guide from one of the ladies that did the study at Proverbs 31 -- and a group together, it will be a huge blessing, I promise you!

Review: Still Missing

Still Missing by Chevie Stevens

Talk about knocking my socks off good! I heard this was a good book, so I was anxious to get my hands on it. I am sooo glad I did! Chevy Stevens is a master storyteller, even from this first book of her's!

After a 32 year old Annie gets abducted during one of her open houses, things will never be the same. Who she dubs "The Freak" her abductor, he only lets her go to the bathroom at certain times .. and she figured out the hard way what happens if you go when you aren't supposed to. He baths her, and does many damaging things to her. When she has a daughter from him, it isn't quite certain if he killed her, but she died none the less.

After a year Annie was able to break free, but will she ever truly be free? Why did he abduct her? Who is behind it? The answers to those questions are even more chilling in themselves!!

Please read this one if you love a bit of thriller! You won't be disappointed!

Review: True Grit

True Grit by Charles Portis

I didn't know what to expect from this book. Here the movies are real good, but of course the book is always better! I loved Maddie. Such a matter of fact kind of 14 year old that just wants justice for her father's murder.If the law isn't going to go after Tom, the murderer, then Maddie will see it is done.

She finds a lawman, Rooster, who even might have been on the other side of the law. Who's to say. Then there is another lawman who comes from Texas and says he is supposed to pick up Tom alive so he can pay for murdering a senator from there. So you have these 2 burly men, and this 14 year old riding trying to find Tom.

When they do find him, holy cow. I really loved this book, loved the way it ended. A classic for sure! However, I won't say any more than this, you are going to have to read and find out!

Review: Night Road

Night Road by Kristin Hannah

Where do I start? Lexi's mom died of a drug overdose. However, Lexi has been in and out of foster homes, each time her mom thinks she can stay off of drugs. When her mom passes, Lexi thinks she has no family, but finds out she has a great Aunt Eva, her grandmother's sister still alive in Washington.

Starting a new high school freshman year, Lexi is used to being the new girl and finds comfort and friendship in the books she reads, especially her dog earred copy of Jane Eyre. So at lunch she takes her book and looks for a spot outside. However, she sees a girl sitting by herself reading as well. So she introduces herself to a girl named Mia and they quickly become friends.

During her first day, she runs into Mia's twin, Zach. She doesn't know at the time they are twins however. Zach is the popular, all American type of boy. Quickly Lexi becomes Mia's best friend and is like one of the Farraday family.

One night when they all have been drinking Lexi accidentally tries to kiss Zach, which leads to a whole new set of problems. Later when she finds out Zach has liked her all along too, what will happen if Lexi and Zach decide to become a couple to her and Mia's friendship?

The story moves along and we come to a sad day for everyone when Mia is killed to due all of their choices, but only Lexi seems to be the one paying for the mistakes.

What the book is about is choices and consequences and how we move on. Beautiful beautiful story, one that will stay in your mind and have you recommending to everyone. Kristin Hannah really knows how to craft a story, one that is real and can happen. I couldn't recommend this book enough!

Review: Life's A Beach

Life's A Beach by Claire Cook

Boy, I totally love Claire Cook's books, but this one really bored me to tears. I couldn't like the main character, Ginger, who is jobless and living out the apartment above her parents' garage. Good Lord! 41 and no direction. She rambled non-stop, really about nothing. Nothing at all. Her boyfriend, Noah, is like a very distant relative. I felt no connection at all. I was hoping personally she would like the gaffer better.

The whole book just seemed to not have any direction whatsoever. The most likeable character was her nephew, Riley, who landed a small part in a shark movie since the shark had gotten itself stuck close to where they live.

Ginger's sister, Geri, is just as much of a mess as Ginger -- Maybe someone can help me see the point of the book? Sorry, I usually LOVE Claire's books, but this one was a dud for me.

Review: Bone Appetit

Bone Appetit by Carolyn Haines

Fast paced mystery at its best! I loved how you couldn't guess who it was.. I had no idea!

This is the first book for me in the Sarah Booth Delaney mysteries, won't be the last though. I enjoyed Sarah, her best friend Tinkie, her "ghost" Jitty and all the other appearances. I loved in this one how Jitty would appear as different cooking show hosts -- very cute and different! All the talk of yummy recipes made me super hungry! I wish there was a section of them...

It held my interest until the VERY end so that is good..sometimes you know who did it and it just is tied up with a neat bow at the end, but Carolyn Haines knows how to give you a good mystery and keep it going!

Review: The Bride's House

The Bride's House by Sandra Dallas

Sandra Dallas NEVER disappoints! In this multigenerational saga, 3 women unknowingly make the same mistakes in love. All three women are lovable characters, Nealie grew on me the most though. Her spirit came through the pages and stuck with you the whole time, thinking her daughter and granddaughter had a piece of her.

Nealie's mother passed away and her father was meaner than a rattlesnake so she just took off. When she arrived in Georgetown Colorado she knew not a soul. However, Lidie Travers was a godsend and took her in. Nealie has lots of admirers though she doesn't realize it. Charlie Dumas is constantly trying to get in the good graces of Nealie, but when a handsome stranger blows into town, Nealie's attention is fully on him. Will Spaulding seems like the perfect man, but is he? When Nealie turns up pregnant with Will's baby, Nealie finds out that Will already has a wife. What will she do now? Good ole Charlie Dumas to the rescue.

Then Nealie's baby is born, Pearl.. and the story continues..

Beautiful beautiful Sandra Dallas at its best!!!

Review: 1105 Yakima Street

1105 Yakima Street by Debbie Macomber

Debbie Macomber knows what readers want! I couldn't say any couple is my favorite, but I sure do love Rachel and Bruce! I was rooting for them from the very beginning. So when they get married without a very long engagement, Bruce's teenage daughter Jolene suddenly has a big problem with Rachel. She is rude and mouthy and completely out of line. Bruce doesn't know what to do, he would rather ignore the problem.

Then we have Will and Miranda, and all the other characters we have come to love in the small town of Cedar Cove! I love getting little snippets of each person, and then moving back and forth between everyone.

This is the second to last book for the Cedar Cove series, a sad thing to end, but I have sure loved the journey! Can't wait to read 1225 Christmas Tree Lane...see what our friend Beth Morehouse will do when faced with Ted the vet and her ex all complicate things!

Review: Ten Beach Road

Ten Beach Road by Wendy Wax

I had a whole entire review written in my mind, but when you are on the road and nowhere to write it down, it slips from the mind and it is gone. I knew I was going to love this author, but I didn't realize how much until after the 38th page. That is when I knew! She writes and pulls you completely into the story, so much you think about it when you aren't able to read it.

We have 3 different ladies that have all been taken by a financial advisor. Maddie, who is a housewife, finds out all of the sudden one day when her mother-in-law has a fire at her house and calls her husband to have him meet them at the hospital that he lost his job 6 months ago and has been lying to her. Once she finds out, he goes into a deep depression and can't get his butt off of the couch. To top it off, her mother-in-law comes to stay with them since the accident in her kitchen. Then she finds out her daughter is pregnant and her son is in trouble at school. They have no money, just a house that is a third of a share that is part of a settlement from Malcolm Dyer, the financial advisor that took everyone's money.

Then there is Avery, another victim. She is a looker but people seem to have forgotten that she isn't just beauty, she has a brain. Maybe Avery has forgotten that too.

Third owner is Nicole, who no one knows is Malcolm's sister. She keeps that a secret. She also keeps the fact that she has NO money a secret as well. Otherwise, who would come to her for matchmaking?

When they all meet up at the house, Bella Flora, it looks to be a complete disaster. But everyone agrees that with a lot of hard work over the summer they could sell and double their profits. Just when it looks like things will pan out for all of them, tragedy strikes. Will they be able to recover once again or will things end up even worse?

Read this one -- grab it on the way to the beach!

Review: Children and Fire

Children and Fire by Ursula Hegi

What can I say? I love Ursula Hegi. Trudi Montag is STILL one of my favorite characters ever. Ursula writes with such passion, that you become completely enveloped in her storytelling. This book was no different, although at the end, it left me feeling bereft. I am wondering if the meaning just went over my head.

I was really with the story, until the end. I don't understand it all, but it was a good book, none the less.

In the beginning of Hiltler's reign, they obviously couldn't go against it. No freedom. That is something to chew on. What you can or can't read, what you say do, everything being monitored. Hegi has left lots for me to think about.. Now that is a sign of another good book!

Review: The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb

The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb by Melanie Benjamin

Can you say one of my new favorite authors?? WOW!!! This book was more than I expected. I expected a story to enjoy on one of my summer days, but this one knocked my socks off and so much more! I will recommend it to everyone I know.

Mercy Lavinia Warren Bump may have been tiny but she was mighty. She had a personality bigger than life. She exceeded so much more than anyone ever thought she ever would. Vinnie had plans and she let no one stop her! From being on a tacky showboat to finally meeting P.T. Barnum and becoming one of his biggest sucesses, Vinnie did it all. She paid a price though, her sister and ultimately love.

You know it is a good book when you want to find out more and more about the subjects from a book. That is a wonderful thing, and it has made me hungry for more. Thank you Ms Melanie, you are a very talented writer and I look forward to many more years of reading!! (hint hint)

Review: Dance Lessons

Dance Lessons by Aine Greaney

Ellen is a widow, hasn't even been a year ago since her husband Finlan drowned. She runs into Sheila who knew Finlan back in his home town. Finds out her husband wasn't an orphan, his mother is still alive. So after a few events leading up to Ellen arriving at her husband's hometown overseas, she ends up taking care of his mother that is dying of cancer.

Do they ever really to a point in this book or does it just drift? That was my feeling the whole entire book. It left me feeling as if I was looking through the scenes with a shear curtain in between and I couldn't get the whole glimpse. Left me feeling not done, not done hearing the story.

However beautiful the writing was, I did enjoy this book. Not sure why it is called Dance Lessons...I get Finlan's daughter that Ellen never knew about dances, but I don't think that was the main part. At least I didn't get that.

Review: A Cowboy's Touch

A Cowboy's Touch by Denise Hunter

What a wonderful book! Denise Hunter has quickly become one of my favorite authors. She knows what women like to read, but it is all clean and God inspired. Abigail is suffering from overworking, so her mom tells her to take three months off of their magazine to go to Montana and check out an aunt that they think might be getting older and might need to be in an assisted living center.

When Abigail gets there, she meets a young lady, Maddy who instantly Abs feels a connection to. When Maddy's summer nanny quits before she even starts, Maddy's dad Wade is in a spot. What a perfect answer though, Abigail! Wade is quiet and reserved, but there are sparks there right from the beginning. When Abigail stumbles upon who Wade really is, Abigail thinks it would be the perfect article to rescue the magazine. What will Wade think though when Abigail exposes where Maddy and J.W. really are and who Wade really is? Will their love survive?

Hunter writes like no other. Abigail comes to understand what a Truthseeker really is. This book will have your eyes sparkling with tears, as you take a journey with Abigail, Maddy and Wade.

Review: Driftwood Cottage

Driftwood Cottage by Sherryl Woods

What can I say? I am a sucker for Sherryl Woods. Reading the Chesapeake Shores series is always a pleasure of mine. It is like going home. Where everyone knows your name and everything about you, and still loves you anyway. Like an old comfortable blanket.. We know what to expect, we know what is going to happen but the ride is still fabulous.

In this installment Connor and his live-in girlfriend Heather have broken up because Heather wants more now that they have Little Mick. She knew from the very beginning that Connor was against marriages but once she had Little Mick she wanted something more permanent. Unknown to Connor Little Mick and Heather are now living in Chesapeake Shores, Connor's hometown! His heart is broken but he doesn't think he will ever change the way he feels about marriage, doomed! That is until Heather has a serious car accident and Connor is faced with the fact that he might live without her forever.

However, will Heather believe his sudden change of heart? Heather all the sudden doesn't want to get married once Connor does.

The love stories never get old with Sherryl. I love it, even though they are totally predictable, full of fluff, but like an old comforting blanket! I love the way she puts it all together. I don't need a lot of the junk in there, love the books just the way they are!

Review: Rest in Peace

Rest in Peace by Frances Devine

A cute cozy mystery with heavy relying on God! What a breath of fresh air! This is my first book by this author but one I will rave and rave about. At first, with all the introductions of new people it was hard to catch on to but all the sudden I found myself unable to put it down. I love when that happens. Our main herione, Victoria, runs a boarding house for elderly, most of them being friends of her grandmother, whom has passed. Victoria and her elderly loved ones are once again thrown into a mystery, when Victoria finds the local pet shop owner dead. Did someone kill him or was he murdered? If he was murdered, why and by whom?

All the residents of Cedar Chapel Lodge are very endearing and I really loved the little bit of Whatzit that we got. Wish there would have been more of him! I felt as if there was a part of me, well a BIG part of me in Victoria. She just seemed like one of us, which really helps to meld yourself into the story!

Frances Devine really hit the mark, and I can't wait to get my hands on the rest of the series and hoping there are more in the works!

Review: Softly and Tenderly

Softly and Tenderly by Sara Evans with Rachel Hauck

Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling, calling for you and for me... So the song goes. One of my favorites. What an awesome read!

I haven't read the first book, but I think from my experience that the books can stand alone as well. We meet Jade, who is married to Max. They are having troubles with having children. But when Max's ex-wife dies and Jade finds out that they slept together a week before Jade and Max's wedding and have a son, will Jade be able to forgive Max and keep Asa as her own even though she can't have any?

Jade's mother in law and Jade walk in on her father-in-law and June's friend having an affair. So maybe Max takes after his father Rebel and will cheat all his life too.

With all of this going and Jade's mother, Beryl, having leukemia and dying, can Jade take any more? Is her place with Max or somewhere else, perhaps with her ex-husband Dustin? All these questions will be answered in this fantastic, easy to read book!

Review: The Caregiver

The Caregiver by Shelley Shepard Gray

I finished this book in TWO settings.. Only a few hours! How can you not want to finish this book? I wanted so bad to hear if Lucy and Calvin would ever come together. To see if Lucy could overcome her fears about men not being violent and loving her like they should.

We start out with Lucy on a train, going to Jacob's Crossing from Michigan to take care of her cousin Mattie who is going through chemotherapy. What she doesn't expect is to find Calvin attractive and his much younger sister Katie very endearing. She spends some time with them and really is starting to feel comfortable with Calvin. When she sees him yell at another person and get very angry all bets are off. He must be like Paul too!

Taking care of Mattie leaves little time for herself but Calvin manages to wiggle in there. Gray left it open for a few more storylines in there as well! This is a MUST read!

Review: Skinny

Skinny by Diana Spechler

Where to start.. I have so many things I could say about this book. I read a lot of reviews before writing this, so the actual book subject has been talked about a lot. Overweight vs skinny people.. Gray's father passes away, which Gray feels that she killed him. (You will find out why she thinks this almost at the end of the book) When she finally talks to the man in charge of her father's will, she finds there is a trust for a woman. When she looks this woman up on the internet, the woman has a child about the same time as when the trust started. So Gray thinks, oh my, my dad had an affair and this is my sister.

Gray then looks her up on the internet, to find out she is going to Camp Carolina, a camp for overweight children. Gray applies to be a counselor and without any knowledge to actually qualify, goes. It seems all of the people put in charge to help these kids don't have any knowledge or skills to really help these children. Gray has a boyfriend back in New York, Mikey, who seems kind of like a man with no direction.

What happens over the 2 months at camp, is a big mess! I am not going to give any more away but you will find out what happens between Gray and her "sister" and more..

At the beginning I really struggled to read this book and connect with Gray. It got better as it went along or maybe I just wanted to know if Gray would ever come out of her feeling sorry for herself. I wanted to like her, but it was really difficult.

Good points in the book, just hard to see them with all the disjointed ideas in the way.

Review: The World's Greatest Christmas Cookies

The World's Greatest Christmas Cookies

This cookbook of all kinds of wonderful cookie recipes is perfect for a holiday gift. These recipes are perfect for your favorite baker in your life! My group gets together once a year for a cookie exchange and I know I will be making a couple of these! It will be hard to choose but rewarding. Everyone in your family can get in on the action.

The pictures are divine. There is a picture for almost every recipe! The sweet tips are sweet indeed! Every one of them is useful. I found the butter tip immensely helpful.

Some of the recipes are super easy, which makes baking with young children during the holidays lots of fun! Some are going to be easy but time consuming and then there will be ones that will challenge you!

Some of my favorite ones on my to-do list are, Mrs. Santa Cinnamon Cookies, Pecan Care Bears, Peanut Butter Cup Cookies (which will be a HUGE hit at my house), Caramel Apple Cookies and Orange Iced Cranberry Cookies.

Then there are bars which Chocolate Pizza is included! Can't get much better than that!

Notched up are the filled bars which you will find Santa's Favorite Ice Cream Sandwiches.

Talk about yummy, my mouth is watering just typing all of this! Make sure you get this cookbook, for yourself, for gifts..

Review: Summer Rental

Summer Rental by Mary Kay Andrews

Sizzling summer beach read!!! Don't miss out this summer on one of the best books of 2011!

We have three friends who are going to meet up at a beach house for the month of August. Dorie, Ellis and Julia. All three have different personalities and of course things going on in their lives, so this beach escape is much needed. Ellis is the schedule freak -- Dorie is a man magnet and is married to Stephen and everyone thinks they are a perfect couple. Then Julia is a model and is dating Booker, who is a bit older than Julia, but wants to marry her. Ellis lost her job just right before this vacation and she is worried because she hasn't had any other job offers.

All of them are looking forward to relaxing, hanging out with each other but when they start to learn each other's secrets and problems will they be able to relax?

Then Dorie goes one day to have a milkshake, comes upon a woman that looks like she is loaded and looking for a motel. So Dorie invites her to stay at the beach house with them -- But Maryn has bigger problems than all the girls. Will Maryn open up to the girls and learn to lean on someone?

This book is so delicious and wonderful, you will be sad when you reach the last page that it is over!

Review: The Art of Saying Goodbye

The Art of Saying Goodbye by Ellyn Bache

We meet 5 women off the bat, and then we go back and forth between all of them, finding out about them and what each one might be struggling with. Iona was my favorite. Seems like a hard lady on the outside but really is a loving lady and could be a wonderful friend. All these ladies I yearned to really like. Could like them on the surface, but there was no real depth. Even Paisley, as much as I was like, yea I think I might like her, after all the stuff I read, not really sure I do!

Each woman, as in real life, is struggling with something, whether it be a spouse dying, to not being happy in their marriage. Nothing new to the scene as far as that. The way Ms Bache wrote it though, is a bit different, back and forth a bit more, and we get a special glimpse of Paisley's mind at times. I enjoyed those brief moments, they seemed the most real to me.

I would recommend this book, it would be a good book to take to the beach. Not too heavy that you need a lot of concentration, and not to much if you can keep up with the cast of characters!

Review: The Year We Left Home

The Year We Left Home by Jean Thompson

Different. This book was different from what I thought it would be. When I got past all the things that were annoying me about this read, then I really enjoyed the book. My favorite character was Torrie. She had a spunk about her that I really fell in love with and thoroughly enjoyed.

This book is set over the course of 30 years, through the lives of a family.. We get different view points and even some from a cousin Chip, who changes his name to Ray for awhile. I loved the descriptions of the family, you can imagine the big hearty folk from Iowa, can't you?

This book reminds us that even though we want to all leave home when we are young, it seems eventually we come back don't we? We usually come back to our roots.

If you love generational sagas, this is a mini one! Everyone is searching for something, will everyone in the family find it? I know you will enjoy seeing all the ups and downs of this cast of characters.

Review: Summer in the South

Summer in the South by Cathy Holton

Different from Cathy Holton's usual type of books -- but very good at the end. Does that qualify as a good book? I wasn't too sure most of the way through. I struggled wondering where this story was going, back and forth with all these details that really didn't seem to have a point. UNTIL about 50 pages left, it got really good and made me glad I hung in there!

Ava is invited to go down to a college friend's hometown for the summer to write her first novel ever. If she can even figure out what that might be that is. Will's family seems nice, but there seems to be secrets and things no one wants to talk about. Such as Charlie Woodburn, or Hadley.. But will Ava's snooping cause too many problems for a prominent southern family?

If you are looking for your usual Cathy Holton book or a regular mystery book, this isn't it. This is totally different! Which at the end made me very glad I stuck with it and finished it. I wanted to know if there really was a murder, and how Jake and Will really fit into everything.

There are a few surprises -- wonderfully added I think! You begin to think you are there with Ava, totally uneasy at night while she is writing. Still has that Cathy Holton southern charm though! That I couldn't live without!

Read this book, stick with it, you will be glad you did in the end. It is all worth it, I promise!

Review: 14 Secrets to Better Parenting

14 Secrets to Better Parenting by Dave Earley

So many things to discuss from this book. It is full of wisdom straight from your own Bible, but more! Proverbs is one of my favorite books -- We start with the basics and you will think, I know this why am I not doing it? Sometimes we need reminders. As the book says, we start with wisdom. Prayer is very important! Foundations are of the utmost!

I won't go into a lot of detail, as I think it is important for you to read yourself. I know I will re--read this book over and over, to see what I am doing, not doing and remind myself.
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Review: Riversong

Riversong by Tess Hardwick

Wonderful debut! Coming from the Pacific Northwest this book interested me from the beginning. However, I could NOT put it down. Lee Tucker is a well developed character and very likable. You see a lot of yourself in her, well I did anyway.

Lee's husband commited suicide after their latest game wasn't working. When Lee learns that her husband owed someone a LARGE sum of money and they want it NOW, her best friend Linus helps her sneak out of town to the small town in Oregon where she grew up. She is there originally because her alcoholic mother just recently passed. Lee figured she could fix up the old place and sell it to pay back Dan's creditor.

Then Lee is thrown another life-changing event. She learns she is pregnant. With no income and needing to fix up the house, she goes in search for a job. Upon meeting Mike, a local restaurant owner, he offers her a proposition. One that might end up with Lee staying there forever.

When love walks in in the form of Tommy, will Lee be able to stick to her plan of leaving this small town and all that have come to love her? Very good storyline. Sure it has been done before, but these are all winsome characters, especially Ellen White, whom you will come to adore.

This is a wonderful first book, I think we will come to love Ms Hardwick!

Review: An Atlas of Impossible Longing

An Atlas of Impossible Longing by Anuradha Roy

This was a beautifully written book. Such imagery made you feel like you were really there, in Calcutta with Mukunda or across the road at Mrs. Barnum's. This story was told in three different parts, each one by a different person.

The story is difficult at first to delve into, but it will grab you when you start to learn who is who, and when you finally get it you won't want to put it down until the end. The first part we establish a bit about our cast of characters; each one being so unique you can't help but love them all for their differences.

I love books about India and this one taught me a lot of the words I didn't know -- We get to go through the lives of some of the family members, and one "adopted" son whom Amulya had put in a orphanage many years ago to help one of his workers out at the spice factory. Then we get to see through another's eyes, that being Nirmal, Amulya's son. Nirmal got married to Shanti and they had a daughter. However, Shanti didn't get to meet her daughter, her father's house flooded a month before she was due and Shanti passed.

So Bakul, Shanti and Nirmal's daughter never met her mother -- and then you have Mukunda whom is adopted by the family. I think the story lies with these two. Both of them searching through life and trying to find their way.

Fantastic mesmerizing first book! This WILL be an author to keep your eye on!

Review: When a Woman Inspires Her Husband

When a Woman Inspires Her Husband by Cindi McMenamin

I am blessed beyond meausure to have read this book. I knew it would probably challenge me, but I am overwhelmed with the messages I received. So many parts talked to my heart. One of my favorite quotes from the book was live life with the man you love, not with the man you THINK he should be. Isn't that profound when you stop to think about it. I really thought about the part where Cindi talks about how much we might be praying to God to change our husbands, and when he isn't changing, that is God saying it is US he wants to change.

I loved the acronyms as well. C-H-E-E-R will be stuck in my head and heart, as well as the ABC's. I can't wait to come up with some of my own!

I have been singing the praises about this book for a long time. I am planning on re-reading over and over. I know my husband and family will be greatly blessed by the changes that are taking place in my heart and attitude. I think most of us know these things, but it is good to read them and put them into practice. Sometimes in our daily lives, we forget about what our purpose really is.

I looked up all of the other books as well and can't wait to read them too! Read this book, you WILL be blessed beyond measure.

Review: Better Than Ever, Again

Better Than Ever, Again by Mitch Davies

Better than I expected! I wasn't too sure at the beginning of this book what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised! Ben works various jobs. When one ends in Idaho, he sees in the paper someone looking for help on a yacht,no experience necessary. Surrounded by a bunch of shady characters, Ben just wants to learn how to sail and to do the job he was hired for.

Ben doesn't put up with much either. When he falls in love, will he have to leave her to continue his job?

This book has a bit of a mystery, what is the real story with this yacht, Carl and Duane. Not to mention Ms Malloy and Rudy as well. I finished this book in one sitting, I wanted to know how it would turn out for Ben. He seemed like such a nice guy, he didn't know what Carl was really up to!

The only thing I could have done without is some of the sex scenes. Not for my personal taste. All in all, a really good book! I did find one error, on page 121 poor = pour --

Review: What Alice Forgot

What Alice Forgot by Liane Moriarty

Going to be one of the best books this year! It all begins when Alice is at the gym, falls off of her bike and loses her memory. When she comes to, she knows that is her friend Jane, but Jane is looking a bit different. That isn't even the half of it! What would Alice be in a GYM for? She hates exercise. Besides she is pregnant with their first child. People Alice doesn't even know are talking to her.

But it isn't 1998 like Alice thinks, it is 2008. Things are a whole lot different in 2008. Besides the fact that Alice seems to be a bit on the snappy side, things don't seem right with her sister, Elisabeth. They seem distant and not close like they used to be. Mom, what happened to mom? Married to Nick's dad Roger? But what is even worse it seems that her and Nick had 3 children, children she doesn't remember having! Nick, what happened to her and Nick? He yelled at her when she called him and then hung up!

No indeed, 2008 doesn't seem like what Alice had envisioned for her life. However, without the memories, will Alice be able to make her life what she wanted it to be instead of what it has become, or will her memory return and things go back the way they were?

This book was so good I didn't want to put it down and talk about it constantly. I can't even imagine missing 10 years. This book wasn't just about Alice though, we went through struggles with her sister Elisabeth as well. Elisabeth and her husband Ben have been trying for over 10 years to have a child, only to have miscarriage after miscarriage. So we get a diary piece at the end of every chapter almost. What a refreshing way to write! I loved this book and will recommend it to everyone! Perfect book to take to the beach!

Review: Dreams of Joy

Review: Dreams of Joy by Lisa See

I have loved Lisa See's book since Snow Flower and the Secret Fan. Then came Shanghai Girls. What a wonderful story about 2 sisters --

Now we have Dreams of Joy to continue the story. I thought it does well enough to stand on its own, but it is helpful to have read Shanghai Girls first to get a little background. The story narrates between Pearl and Joy, which I thought was very enjoyable.

Dreams of Joy starts off with Joy, being May's daughter but Pearl, May's sister raising her her whole life. Joy overhears a conversation between the sisters, finds out May is really her mother. She has grand ideas of returning to her family's homeland of China and helping with the revolution. Also she would like to find her real dad, Z.G. When she finds him and they go to the countryside for what Joy thinks as he is teaching painting to the peasants, really he is being banished.

In the countryside of Green Dragon, Joy thinks she has found it all. Love and happiness, helping her country as she is told. However she has no idea that Pearl is in the country trying to find her. When she finally finds her back in Shanghai, Joy is upset and still angry, and in love, she thinks anyway.

Pearl, Joy and Z.G. make a trip back to the countryside, Joy thinks her happiness will be there with Tao. After they are married though, Joy finds out a completely different side of Tao. She also finds out that the country she has been supporting maybe isn't everything they promised, making them work non-stop and not feeding them in return. The Great Leap Forward may not be so great. Will Joy be able to make it out?

This book was hearbreaking at times but a wonderful book continued about 2 sisters love for each other, even in the hard times. Also it has a bit of a love story and the best part is our love for our children, whether they be biologically or not! Enjoy, Lisa See is a master storyteller!

Review: She Makes It Look Easy

Review: She Makes It Look Easy by Marybeth Whalen

When I read The Mailbox, I raved about it for days. Loved the whole idea! Then I couldn't believe it when I found out Marybeth was coming out with a second book! How awesome is that I ask you!

She Makes It Look Easy is a bit more thought provoking and really hits home in a lot of areas. Especially for women I think. We all think each other has it so much easier or at least I think everyone else has it easier and does it so much better than I do. However, appearances aren't always what they seem. Someone might have it so put together on the outside but might be falling apart on the inside.

Ariel has just moved with her husband David and 3 rowdy boys to her dream neighborhood, Essex Falls. She wants everything to be perfect. When she meets Justine, the neighbor that lives behind them, she sees a potential friend. However, something always seems out of place. Ariel doesn't listen to this nagging feeling though, she tries her hardest to impress and befriend Justine.

Justine is up to no good though, an affair-in-the-making on the skirts and I don't think Justine knows the word friend as it really means to be a friend. It is all too true that even though people like Justine get up in front of ladies at church, and speak and seem to have it all, they really don't.

I loved Ariel, she had such a heart and even though things were hectic in her home, she knew the one person to go to, our Lord. Even better were Betsy's words at the end. We have to make sure we don't fall into that trap of wanting what other people have, being content with what WE have. What He has given us, indeed is what WE need.

I loved this book, it went by way too fast. What more can you ask for? Marybeth hit the nail on the head with this one! We all need a wake-up call sometimes to be careful what and who we idolize and follow.

Review: When Sparrows Fall

Review: When Sparrows Fall by Meg Moseley

"I'm a sinner, Lord," he whispered, "but I'm Your sinner. May I always be in a condition accessible to mercy. So may we all." -- I think this statement sums up this whole entire book.

Miranda is a widowed woman in her 30's with 6 young children. When her Pastor calls an emergency meeting telling the single women and 2 widowed women of the church that he has had a message from the Lord that they all are moving to another place, Miranda knows it isn't for her. She and her children can't leave behind their home and land that has been in her deceased husband's family for ages. But as the black sheep of the church family she knows she must not make trouble. What will she do? She fasts, to get an answer from God. Hungry and a bit dizzy from fasting, early one morning before the children arose she was out at the cliffs by the house and she took a terrible tumble. Thank goodness she had changed her will and left them in the care of Carl's half brother Jack. However Jack might cause a few waves. It might be worthwhile though.

Meg Moselely wrote so beautifully, and although this is a fiction story, I do have to believe that this goes on a bit even today. People being bullied in churches.. I loved Miranda's spirit and all of the kids were priceless. Timothy had a struggle, but you knew he would come along.

There will be a few surprises in there for you, a few hidden gems. So enjoy the ride and I wrote down the quote at the top. Something I never want to forget. None of us should.

Review: At Home with the Templetons

At Home with the Templetons by Monica McInerney

What a book! Monica knocked my socks off! This was my first book but it won't be my last by a long shot! The Templetons are a big imposing bunch, each with a big personality! We start out with Gracie arriving at what we know at the end to be "Templeton Hall", with some dark, curly, handsome stranger greeting her. Who was he? Then we go back to what happened to get to that moment.

Eleanor, the mother of the crew, she was an iffy character, didn't hate her but didn't care for her either. Too wishy-washy for me. Stand up for yourself love! The dad, good ole liar himself, Henry -- he is a liar, but a smooth character, a ladies man I suppose eh. Then we have the children. The oldest is Charlotte, who went to boarding school and eventually threatens to not come home until they make Aunt Hope go away --- which I think she just used as an excuse. Then we have Audrey, who is a theatrical girl. She gets a part in a play, then comes the big day. She gets up there, oh darn, stage fright! From that day on she doesn't speak to anyone. Falls in love with a therapist. Find out what happens to her...

We have one of the best characters in my opinion, Gracie next. Gracie is the most lovable, easiest to get along with character. Even Tom thinks so! Speaking of Tom, you will meet Tom and his mom Nina along the way too. Nina is another one that you will either come to understand or hate. I think there is no middle road.

One character I think we can all hate is Hope. At one teeny tiny point I thought there might be hope for Hope, but alas she ruined that one. Hope is detestable. But she makes the book enjoyable and keeps you guessing the whole entire book, highly entertaining!

And last but not least we have the youngest, the spoiled brat Spencer, who a lot of things wouldn't have happened without him. You either love him or hate him too. He didn't have many goals in life, maybe that is what being the youngest and hanging around Hope did for him.

Monica knows what readers want, and she gave it. I can't wait to get my hands on her other books. I will recommend this book to everyone! Perfect book to take to the beach, makes you forget all your own drama for a day!

Review: The Snowman

The Snowman by Jo Nesbo

When you think you have figured out who the snowman is about five or six times but you are wrong, that is a good book! This isn't my normal kind of read, so for me to give it 5 stars is quite the deal! I really loved all the details, someone might get bogged down in them, but I really thought it made the story so complete.

Some of the details I wasn't sure what they had to do with the story, but much like a detective, you aren't sure what they have to do with the case, but file them away for future use. They all came together like a puzzle. A perfect cresendo.

The book starts out with Detective Harry Hole getting a letter from some source claiming to be "the snowman" --- from there you have missing women, a snowman body with a severed head on top -- I don't want to go into more details and spoil it but you will enjoy the thrilling, heart stopping ride. I did!

Who would have guessed!!!! If you do guess, maybe you are a better detective than I am I suppose! However, I thought Jo Nesbo did a wonderful job writing this wonderful thriller. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

Review: Declaring Spinsterhood

Declaring Spinsterhood by Jamie Lynn Braziel

What a good little story -- for her first story I thought it was really good. Emma was a really likeable character, her mother was really unlikeable --- Brian was so-so, he could have been more developed, but I enjoyed him. I thought Emma's father was ok, I wanted him to be more developed and involved.

Emma has a best friend/neighbor Brian but it turns out that she is in love with him. However he is dating the terrible Delilah. All of Emma's family picks on her constantly because they think she needs to get married. Her mother keeps trying to set her up with all these different men, and one of her old boyfriends, Steve.

Also, Emma runs into a handsome man on a little business venture her and her friend/employee Kathy are at, John -- John comes and takes Emma out to dinner -- but is John what Emma is looking for?

Or will Emma stick to spinsterhood?

Cute story, I know as time goes on Ms Braziel will get better and more refined! Keep up the good works!

Review: The Peach Keeper

The Peach Keeper by Sarah Addison Allen

When a body is found underneath a peach tree outside The Blue Ridge Madam, that sets of a series of strange events in the small quaint town of Walls of Water. Two of our main characters, Willa and Paxton, polar opposites, collide -- making up most of the book. You will find out why the body is there, who it is and enjoy only the way that Sarah can write.

She writes with such force that you feel like you can taste or smell as if it is right there. Such magic in itself. Don't get me wrong, all the other books have been wonderful, but Garden Spells will always be my favorite.

The Peach Keeper came along at a perfect time though, with spring coming. This one had a little hint of mystery too, which was wonderful. I loved Willa too, she was a bit feisty. She was one of my favorite characters. What you get is more than just a book about mystery, you get friendship, love and tradition, as it says! Enjoy it will go by way too quick!

Review: Between A Rock and A Hot Place Why Fifty is NOT the New Thirty

by Tracey Jackson


I wish once again I hadn't waited so long to read this book! Less than 24 hours later this book is finished! Tracey Jackson has a way of writing exactly what every woman is thinking, come on you know you are! I won't go into every point but the 4 stages of breasts, totally true!!! The spongebob thing, I had to read it outloud to my husband and had to re-read it because I couldn't stop laughing.

I loved the Virginia Woolf quote, "Arrange whatever pieces come your way." I think that is probably the turning point for Tracey. When I see Crisco I will forever think of her grandma, if my oldest teenager read this book I think she might try it -- she tries EVERYTHING these days.. hahaha

If anything I got out of this book, I think the most important thing I got was EXERCISE. I do believe that is key. The endorphins that come from it have a whole lot to do with depression and feeling better about yourself in general. Every chapter had a little piece of information, but I couldn't help but laugh when the online dating chapter came up. Too funny!!!

I thought this book would be whiny and superficial, however I will be recommending to everyone -- and MAKE SURE you pick up Tracey's movie Lucky Ducks on Amazon as well!!!

By the way, I didn't get the memo that my children are on loan!!! Just kidding! I am still debating on which room to turn into a den vs craft room etc..

Review: Crunch Time by Diane Mott Davidson

Whew! Talk about overload! I felt like a lot was going on. I had to go over it and over it. However, I LOVED every minute of this book. I love Goldy, Tom and all the cast of wacky characters Diane Mott Davidson always brings for us. She always starts out with a bang. I think Goldy has gotten more savvy with detective work and knows more what clues to look for and that is why she really gets herself into more tangles, which makes for more fun.

This time, Yolanda and her great aunt are displaced when the man that they are living with is found murdered. So Goldy and Tom insist that they come to stay with them temporarily. With a whole list of supsects, Goldy caters a dinner that goes terribly wrong and gets a ton more clues -- we all know the path Ms Davidson goes down, but the ride is always a blast!

I personally love how we don't need vulgar language, or any raunchy scenes, just a lot of fun, a few nail biting moments and a few laughs! The descriptions of all the food items make me so ravenous no wonder I am starving after I read her books! The recipes in the back are ALWAYS delicious and never fail!

So make some Crunch Time Cookies, curl up with a nice up of your favorite coffee and Crunch Time and see what Miss G is up to!

Quote

Books are the plane, and the train, and the road. They are the destination, and the journey. They are home. –Anna Quindlen

April 5th!

Warning! You will find her book VERY hard to put down! So you must alot a certain amount of time to read. Her name is Roison Meaney. The book is Semi Sweet. It starts out with Hannah getting ready for a celebration with her live-in boyfriend and family before the big opening of her new cupcake shop. However, he has other plans. He is leaving her for the massage therapist, Leah. What he doesn't know though is Leah is pregnant with his baby.

You will meet lots of different people in this quaint little town in Ireland. You will come to love some of them, and not understand some, but grow very fond of them all! You won't want to leave but it will be all over way too soon either way.

Hannah also has a wonderful male friend Adam who comes to live with her to help her out financially so that she doesn't have that burden, and I secretly hope they get together, but I won't ruin anything for you! Go Hannah!!! hehe

They are all solid characters and Roisin is a master storyteller. Bloody brilliant! I am scrambling trying to get my hands on every single book I can now! hehe So spread the word, we have a new author to stalk!

Battery tester anyone?

Monday Graphics

Good Monday morning all! Can't believe March is right around the corner! It is coming in with a real roar here, not the snow and weather other people are getting but the wind and rain/sleet is continuing to come down!

My son is my hero! Last week in some snow and ice my son cleaned off my car! He is such a gentleman. This morning when I was taking pictures the camera needed batteries. He changed them and then said don't throw the old ones away. I want to make sure they are bad. So he tested them! I didn't even know we had something like that!





Here is a March calendar piece I finished the other day.



Here is a CCS piece I am working on but it is a secret! heheh..



Blessed day!