Review: Delicious

Delicious by Adrianne Lee

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Workaholic Nick Taziano is the proud owner of a successful marketing company in Montana. But his career takes a backseat when he learns his dad plans to remarry his ex. Nick fears she'll break his heart . . . again. And he doesn't like being reunited with her obnoxious daughter-until the all-grown-up beauty kisses him at the engagement party. The kiss might be a mistake, but once he tastes Jane's lips, nothing-not even her famous blueberry pie-compares.

A promising chef at Big Sky Pie, Jane Wilson never, ever wanted to see Nick Taziano again, but he's just been hired to do the pie shop's marketing. How's a girl supposed to bake the best pastries in town when he's a constant reminder of their steamy chemistry? His chocolate eyes and sexy dimples heat up the kitchen-and every part of her body. Jane has no room for a man in her life, yet sometimes the most delicious dishes don't follow the recipe . . .

--My thoughts. Nick is busy with his photography business. He is looking for love though. Jane is busy trying to get her pies going at the pie shop in town, at Big Sky Pie. Unaware that their parents are going to get together again, they collide at a party and sparks fly. They haven't seen each other since they were young and don't recognize each other, and they kiss before they know who each other is.

I love the chemistry between them. It is a fun read, and there is some fun figuring out what will happen and why their parents split up in the first place. Adrianne has made this the perfect read you can read in an afternoon, not too boring where you can sleep through it, the characters are fully carved out, not empty and dull.

You can read this one, it does stand alone on its own. That is awesome. I received this book from the goodreads first reads program in exchange for my honest opinion.



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Review: House of Living Stones

House of Living Stones by Katie Schuermann

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


In the small Illinois town of Bradbury, change doesn't come often, and it certainly doesn't come easily. So when Pastor Fletcher hires Emily Duke as the new choir director at Zion Lutheran Church, he unknowingly sets in motion a chain of events that turns the life of his congregation upside down.

The crusty church secretary, Mrs. Scheinberg, must learn to adjust her curmudgeonly ways. Zion's talented but pompous organist, Evan Ebner, must recognize his shortcomings. Emily must come to terms with her past. Even Pastor Fletcher must face reality when his world is shaken by the baggage Emily brings and by the handsome Zachary Brandt who pursues her.

With its host of lovable and relatable characters, House of Living Stones will find a special place on your bookshelf and in your heart.

-- My thoughts-- This book was so amazing I quickly fell in love with this cast of quirky characters. From the grouchy Mrs. Sheinberg, which I think is my favorite, to the lovable Emily and even Evan. You will love to hate Candice and Geraldine, but it does take all types and they are all in our churches. We might even see a bit in ourselves.

Katie was compared to Jan Karon, but I disagree. I think it was much better. Not so many characters introduced, and a storyline I can follow that didn't get so crazy. Many times I couldn't get over how amazingly good and rich this book was with characters and descriptions. Written so well, I read it in one setting.

I really loved when it said that he held onto grudges like they were treasures. Isn't that the truth. That really hit home. Don't we tend to do that? This book is so truth and scripture based, as well as lots of songs in it, I found myself singing along.

Ms. Schuermann definitely has a bright future ahead of her in writing! I highly recommend this book for anyone looking for a good new town to get invested in! Look to Bradbury!



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Review: Love Story

Love Story: The Hand that Holds Us From the Garden to the Gate by Nichole Nordeman

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Based on the #1-selling Christian album The Story (EMI/WOW), lyricist and Grammy-nominated artist Nichole Nordeman helps readers embrace God’s relentless, loving pursuit of the most weak and sinful among us from the beginning of time.

-- My thoughts. I love Nichole's music. So, when I heard she had a book coming out, I squealed with delight! Each chapter she discusses someone from the Bible, and ends with a verse from a song. She talks about something personal from her life. Then we go a bit deeper into the Bible. You will not want to do anything else once you pick up this book, so beware!

I think this book was way too short! I couldn't get enough and I really enjoyed Nichole's thoughts and I agree, people that find Jesus later in life almost treasure Him more than people that go to church their whole lives.

You, like myself, will want Nichole to write more! I am eagerly and patiently awaiting the next one (hoping) anyway!! I received this book from the Goodreads first reads program!



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Review: The Power of Being Thankful

The Power of Being Thankful: 365 Devotions for Discovering the Strength of Gratitude by Joyce Meyer

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


New York Times bestselling author Joyce Meyer believes that giving thanks to God daily will positively impact our lives. When we pause to acknowledge His blessings it restores us to a state of spiritual peace.


In this 365 day devotional, Joyce offers an inspiring message that will spark an attitude of gratitude in our hearts. Through uplifting Scripture, she illustrates God's never-ending love, inexhaustible grace, and always-accessible presence in our lives. As we develop a renewed outlook, we will better recognize and be further blessed by God's abundant goodness.
Each devotion will also include a prayer of thanks, so that we may begin every day ready to receive the transforming power of a thankful heart.

-- My thoughts. We all need this EVERY day. Not just on Thanksgiving. If we focused every single day on what we were thankful for, instead of the negative, what positivity would come from your life! Your choice! You make it every single day. Today's devotion, confidence and negativity do not mix, like oil and water. She is so right. Every day, the devotions are not long. Just 5 minutes people. That is just something to chew on all day long, great way to start your day off.

Like she says, whether you want to look at things through God's eyes, or Satan's, you make the choice. Gratitude. Choose it. Every. Single. Day.

I received this book in the from the publisher from the Goodreads first reads program.



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Review: The Christmas Cat

The Christmas Cat by Melody Carlson

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


After years abroad, Garrison Brown returns home to Vancouver to build a new life. When his beloved grandmother passes away a few weeks before Christmas, Garrison goes to her house to sort out her belongings, including six cats who need new homes. While Garrison hopes to dispense with the task quickly, his grandmother's instructions don't allow for speed. She has left Garrison with some challenging requirements for the future homes of her furry friends--plus a sizeable monetary gift for the new owners. Garrison's job is to match the cats with the right owners without disclosing the surprise gift. Along the way, he may just meet someone who can make him stay.
Humorous and heartwarming, this latest Christmas story from bestselling author Melody Carlson is the perfect gift for pet lovers and anyone in whose heart Christmas holds a special place.

-- My thoughts. Just in time for the holidays, this book is a fun book to read. Especially if you are an animal lover. I am not really a cat lover, but I still enjoyed it. I really loved how each cat was adopted by the perfect person. A bit of a love story might be in the mix, and a bit of a mystery, but it was a lot of fun to read. Quick, but a delightful tale (or tail!!) -- readers will delight in this read this holiday.

Garrison might just change his mind about a few things along the way, his priorities and also maybe his heart. Enjoy!!!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.



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Review: Silent Night Standoff

Silent Night Standoff by Susan Sleeman

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


When armed robbers strike her bank, hostage negotiator Skyler Brennan's life is on the line. Rescue comes from the last person she thought she could count on—the ex-boyfriend who chose his job over their relationship. FBI agent Logan Hunter knows how much is resting on this case. The promotion of his dreams…and the safety of the woman he's never been able to forget. But when an unexpected twist in the case pulls Logan in two separate directions, he'll have to make an impossible choice. Will he manage to have it all by Christmas—a career and love—or will he lose them both?

First Responders: Brave men and women alert and ready for danger and love.

-- My thoughts. I really enjoyed the adventure and banter between Logan and Skyler. Fast paced, full of witty interaction with everyone. The six of first responders are family. I enjoyed them immensely. This book started off with a bang and it didn't end until the last sentence. You can't guess who it is! That made it a huge hit with me. I really don't enjoy that when you can guess.

Also, being from the northwest, I love that I can know exactly what Sleeman is talking about. Yes, Lloyd Center and ice skating! Yes!! Too much fun. What I loved is the end, my heart beat fast. Read it and you will know! Thank you Ms Sleeman for an excellent read, I can't wait for the next one!!!

I received this book in exchange for my honest opinion.





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Review: Dreaming on Daises

Dreaming on Daisies by Miralee Ferrell

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


When her father's debts, brought on by heavy drinking, threaten Leah Carlson's family ranch, she fights to save it. When handsome banker Steven Harding must decline her loan request, he determines to do what he can to help. Just as he arrives to serve as a much-needed ranch hand, Leah's family secrets—and the pain of her past—come to a head. They could destroy everything she's fought for. And they could keep her from ever opening her heart again.

This is western historical romance that offers hope and healing to the deepest wounds in a woman's past.

--My review. Leah is a very strong young woman. So when she is denied at the bank for help with the ranch, what is she going to do? Lots of secrets out at her house too. And you have Steven now living out there. Lots of characters all culminating in this one, lots of stuff brewing!

Between Leah and Steven and then Leah's father and his drinking habits. Also, all the secrets with the ranch, and Leah's brother coming back bring all the secrets to light! I didn't know what to believe! Still my favorite is Mrs Cooper!!! I can't get enough of her.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.



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Review: Messy Beautiful Love

Messy Beautiful Love: Hope and Redemption for Real-Life Marriages by Darlene Schacht

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


"Messy Beautiful Love" delivers an incredible testimony of grace that offers hope for today's marriages and a spark for rekindling love.

Love gets messy.

Financial problems, sickness, aging parents, a chronically unhappy spouse . . . trials will inevitably come that threaten your marriage. No matter how long you've been married or how strong your relationship is, sooner or later you are going to have a mess to clean up.

"Messy Beautiful Love" is about cleaning up messes God's way, exchanging your ideas for His, and being prepared for both the best and the worst that marriage has to offer.

When you surrender your relationship to God, then and only then will you experience the blessing of marriage as He intended. This is the blessing of obedience. "Messy Beautiful Love" is an invitation to that obedience. The cynical world says marriages don't last, but God knows better. Tune out the world and tune in to Him. When you do that, a beautiful marriage is not only possible, it's inevitable.

-- My review. If you have NEVER ever heard Darlene's story you MUST. Not because you need to be nosy. Because it is amazing what God can do, if you let him work. Darlene is one of the neatest ladies I know. This book is SUCH a blessing! This is going to be a book club in November on Women Living Well (www.womenlivingwell.org) and I encourage you to get your copy and join in! I know I am.. I have already read the book, but I know I can go over it and over it.

I could tell you what she says in here, but there would never be enough time in the day. I cried, I laughed, I couldn't get enough. At times I had to put it down, get on my knees and say thank you God for sending me this book, or confess something that I knew God was sending me this book to convict me of something at that moment.

Yes, please do read it. Join in the book club. Give copies! Read it over and over! Be blessed!

I received a copy in exchange for my honest opinion!




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Review: Ashenden

Ashenden: A Novel by Elizabeth Wilhide

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


When brother and sister Charlie and Ros discover that they have inherited Ashenden, the beautiful eighteenth-century English country house steeped in their family history, they face an important decision: Do they try to keep it or do they sell it?

In a beguiling narrative spanning two and a half centuries, we meet those who have built the house, lived in it, loved it, and those who would subvert it to their own ends. The walls of Ashenden echo with the lives of the architect who directs the building of the house in 1775, the wealthy Henderson family in their heyday, the maid who is tempted to solve her problems by stealing a trinket, the Jazz Age speculator who hosts a fabulous treasure hunt, the prisoners held there during World War II, and the young couple who lovingly restore it in the 1950s.

With upstairs and downstairs storylines intertwining to form a rich tapestry, Ashenden is an evocative portrait of a house that is a character as compelling as the people who inhabit it.

--My review. Well this one took me awhile. But it picked up about halfway through and then as time went on, I was amazed at how much the house actually brought to the table! Maybe in the style of the ever popular Downton Abbey, or Upstairs, Downstairs... I really like some of the people!

This book really was a lot of fun, the different people. I really adored the cover as well. It was very deep at times and the different situations. Not a book that was lighthearted. And the story wrapped back up with the brother and sister! Bravo!

I received a copy of this book from the first reads program in exchange for my honest opinion.



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Review: Somewhere Safe wtih Somebody Good

Somewhere Safe with Somebody Good by Jan Karon

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


After five hectic years of retirement from Lord’s Chapel, Father Tim Kavanagh returns with his wife, Cynthia, from a so-called pleasure trip to the land of his Irish ancestors.
While glad to be at home in Mitford, something is definitely missing: a pulpit. But when he’s offered one, he decides he doesn’t want it. Maybe he’s lost his passion.
His adopted son, Dooley, wrestles with his own passion—for the beautiful and gifted Lace Turner, and his vision to become a successful country vet. Dooley’s brother, Sammy, still enraged by his mother’s abandonment, destroys one of Father Tim’s prized possessions. And Hope Murphy, owner of Happy Endings bookstore, struggles with the potential loss of her unborn child and her hard-won business.
All this as Wanda’s Feel Good Café opens, a romance catches fire through an Internet word game, their former mayor hatches a reelection campaign to throw the bums out, and the weekly Muse poses a probing inquiry: Does Mitford still take care of its own?
Millions of fans will applaud the chance to spend time, once more, in the often comic and utterly human presence of Jan Karon’s characters. Indeed, they have never been more sympathetic, bighearted, and engaging.

My review -- Well the gang is back! I love Mitford. I felt a big sigh when I got this book. I love how big it is and I sank my teeth in right away! I couldn't wait to find out what Dooley, Father Tim, Cynthia and all my favorite people were up to.

Father Tim gets asked if he wants to come back to the church and help out. There is a mysterious limo driving around Mitford. What do they want? Dooley's brother is acting up, big time. Lots going on, lots of new people, almost need a character map sometimes!

I think being gone so long from Mitford, it took awhile to get back into the swing of things, but after awhile it felt natural. I did really miss it.

Any big fan like myself will enjoy this book of course! It is like coming home after being gone so long! Lots of surprises and fun.

I received this book from the first reads program, in exchange for my honest opinion!



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Review: A Light in the Wilderness

A Light in the Wilderness by Jane Kirkpatrick

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Letitia holds nothing more dear than the papers that prove she is no longer a slave. They may not cause white folks to treat her like a human being, but at least they show she is free. She trusts in those words she cannot read–as she is beginning to trust in Davey Carson, an Irish immigrant cattleman who wants her to come west with him.
Nancy Hawkins is loathe to leave her settled life for the treacherous journey by wagon train, but she is so deeply in love with her husband that she knows she will follow him anywhere–even when the trek exacts a terrible cost.
Betsy is a Kalapuya Indian, the last remnant of a once proud tribe in the Willamette Valley in Oregon territory. She spends her time trying to impart the wisdom and ways of her people to her grandson. But she will soon have another person to care for.
As season turns to season, suspicion turns to friendship, and fear turns to courage, three spirited women will discover what it means to be truly free in a land that makes promises it cannot fulfill.

Based on a true story.

My review. I couldn't get enough of this story. And based on a true story? Heck yes! I loved Letitia's heart. I love how Jane molded all three women together. This is WHY I read. How can you not love a story, and also learning? Gasp! Sigh... ahhh simply amazing.. To think that people, PEOPLE were treated this way? Why? How could we treat other humans this way and think it was ok? I don't know. When the papers were missing my heart plummeted -- there were so many favorite parts in this book, when Davey proposed -- you just MUST read this book.. I have to say it is right up there with The Daughter's Walk..

Here is a video of this book, I hope you can take the time to watch!

http://youtu.be/8Ixka881BNY

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.



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Review: Four Friends

Four Friends by Robyn Carr

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Gerri can't decide what's more devastating: learning her rock-solid marriage has big cracks, or the anger she feels as she tries to repair the damage. Always the anchor for friends and her three angst-ridden teenagers, it's time to look carefully at herself. The journey for Gerri and her family is more than revealing—it's transforming.

Andy doesn't have a great track record with men, and she's come to believe that for her a lasting love is out of reach. When she finds herself attracted to her down-to-earth, ordinary contractor—a man without any of the qualities that usually appeal to her—she questions everything she thought she wanted in life.

Sonja's lifelong pursuit of balance is shattered when her husband declares he's through with her New Age nonsense and walks out. There's no herbal tonic or cleansing ritual that can restore her serenity—or her sanity.

Miraculously, it's BJ, the reserved newcomer to Mill Valley, who steps into their circle and changes everything. The woman with dark secrets opens up to her neighbors, and together they get each other back on track, stronger as individuals and unfaltering as friends.

--My review. Each woman sure did bring something to the table. I really liked Gerri, she seemed like she had it all together. But when she learns devastating news about her marriage, her perfect world will come crashing down. Or will it?

Andy I think was my favorite! I love her love story and she really just I don't know, really saw beauty in something that everyone didn't. I tend to be like that, so maybe that is why I thought she was my favorite!

Sonja drove me crazy!! The new age stuff and her trying to control everything, would drive anyone over the brink! No wonder her husband walked out.

BJ, the dark secrets and everything. I really loved her story and I loved the whole ending! I know you will love this book, well because who doesn't love anything by Robyn Carr??

Enjoy, and I know you will find your favorite character too. One you identify with most!



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Review: The Glass Kitchen

The Glass Kitchen: A Novel of Sisters by Linda Francis Lee

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Portia Cuthcart never intended to leave Texas. Her dream was to run the Glass Kitchen restaurant her grandmother built decades ago. But after a string of betrayals and the loss of her legacy, Portia is determined to start a new life with her sisters in Manhattan... and never cook again.

But when she moves into a dilapidated brownstone on the Upper West Side, she meets twelve-year-old Ariel and her widowed father Gabriel, a man with his hands full trying to raise two daughters on his own. Soon, a promise made to her sisters forces Portia back into a world of magical food and swirling emotions, where she must confront everything she has been running from. What seems so simple on the surface is anything but when long-held secrets are revealed, rivalries exposed, and the promise of new love stirs to life like chocolate mixing with cream.

The Glass Kitchen is a delicious novel, a tempestuous story of a woman washed up on the shores of Manhattan who discovers that a kitchen—like an island—can be a refuge, if only she has the courage to give in to the pull of love, the power of forgiveness, and accept the complications of what it means to be family.

-- My review: Portia thinks she is getting a new start in New York in her aunt's apartment. Is she really though? Or is she making things worse? Is she butting her nose in other's business where she shouldn't perhaps? I love every single thing about this book! The cover, the recipes! The relationship between the sisters, Ariel and Portia, the romance!

Every second I kept saying this is why I read! Lee did a fabulous job with Portia's gift and mixing in all the different personalities. I fell in love quickly and I am sad it was over way too quickly! Need a second book!!!



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Review: 'Til The Well Runs Dry

The New York Times Sunday Book Review Shortlist • Booklist Starred Review • O, The Oprah Magazine "10 Titles to Pick Up Now"

"As universally touching as it is original."—The New York Times

"[A] vivid debut."—People

"I was swept away.... like the first time I read my aunt’s novel, Their Eyes Were Watching God."—Lucy Ann Hurston

A glorious and moving multi-generational, multicultural saga that begins in the 1940s and sweeps through the 1960’s in Trinidad and the United States

Lauren Francis-Sharma's 'Til the Well Runs Dry opens in a seaside village in the north of Trinidad where young Marcia Garcia, a gifted and smart-mouthed 16-year-old seamstress, lives alone, raising two small boys and guarding a family secret. When she meets Farouk Karam, an ambitious young policeman (so taken with Marcia that he elicits the help of a tea-brewing obeah woman to guarantee her ardor), the risks and rewards in Marcia’s life amplify forever.

On an island rich with laughter, Calypso, Carnival, cricket, beaches and salty air, sweet fruits and spicy stews, the novel follows Marcia and Farouk from their amusing and passionate courtship through personal and historical events that threaten Marcia’s secret, entangle the couple and their children in a scandal, and endanger the future for all of them.

'Til the Well Runs Dry tells the twinned stories of a spirited woman’s love for one man and her bottomless devotion to her children. For readers who cherish the previously untold stories of women’s lives, here is a story of grit and imperfection and love that has not been told before.

-- My review: I LOVED this book. I read it in ONE sitting. I couldn't get enough. I fell in love with Marcia Garcia. She meets Farouk and falls in love, and they get married, have children. What follows, you will have to read and find out. Marcia is a very strong woman!

I just adored this book! Please do yourself a favor and read it. I recommend it to everyone I come in contact with. It really threw me for a loop though. Knocked my socks off!!! Sharma is one to watch out for, she is going to be amazing in the coming years! I can't wait to see what else she comes out with if this is any indication!!

Review: The From-Aways

The From-Aways by CJ Hauser

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Fresh talent CJ Hauser makes her literary debut with The From-Aways, an irreverent story of family, love, friendship, and lobsters, in the tradition of J. Courtney Sullivan’s Maine and Richard Russo’s Empire Falls.

***
Two women come to Maine in search of family and find more love, heartbreak, and friendship than they’d ever imagined one little fishing town could hold.

When Leah, a young New York reporter, meets Henry, she falls in love with everything about him: his freckles, green thumb, and tales of a Maine childhood. They marry quickly and Leah convinces Henry to move back to Menamon. As Leah builds a life there, reporting for The Menamon Star and vowing to be less of an emotional screw-up, the newlyweds are shocked to discover that they don’t know each other nearly so well as they thought they did.

When Quinn’s mother dies, she tracks down the famous folk-singer father she’s never known, in Menamon. Scrappy and smart-mouthed, Quinn gets a job at the local paper, an apartment above the town diner, and tries to shore up the courage to meet her father. But falling in love with her roommate, Rosie, was never part of the plan.

These two unruly women’s work relationship at The Star deepens into best-friendship when they stumble onto a story that shakes sleepy Menamon—and holds damaging repercussions for Leah’s husband and Quinn’s roommate both. As the town descends into turmoil, both women must decide what kind of lives they are willing to fight for.

-- My review: I had a hard time with this book. I loved the cover. I am a total cover snob. So I fell in love with the cover. I wanted to like the people in this book. I tried. Over and over and over. Several times I said ok they aren't so bad. And it wasn't. But then I was lost. And then I got to liking it. And then I was lost.

Over all it wasn't too bad, but I just don't get into this type of book. Protests, and I am not sure it was all a jumble to me at times. I wanted to give it more stars but something just didn't click for me.

The people all just seemed a bit sad, too sad for me. Life can be sad, but jeez. Yikes!



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Review: Save the Date

Save the Date by Mary Kay Andrews

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


A wedding florist finds love and trouble in this delightful new novel by the New York Times bestselling author of Ladies' Night

A Savannah florist is about to score the wedding of a lifetime—one that will solidify her career as the go-to-girl for society nuptials. Ironically, Cara Kryzik doesn't believe in love, even though she creates beautiful flower arrangements to celebrate them. But when the bride goes missing and the wedding is in jeopardy, Cara must find the bride and figure out what she believes in. Maybe love really does exist outside of fairy tales after all.

Told with Mary Kay Andrew's trademark wit and keen eye for detail, mark your calendars for Save the Date!

-- My review: Cara is a fun, down-to-earth kind of girl. The kind you can see yourself in. Or I could anyway. I enjoyed her witty banter. I had so much fun with this book, I couldn't put it down. This book is so thick, I loved each minute of it and it went way too fast in my opinion.

As always, there is a beginning of some kind of drama, and then of course love and everything is grand and then some kind of oh no moment and then a big bang and then it all comes back together, but MK does it so wonderfully, you will LOVE every single minute of it.

Each character brings something to it and I really won't say anything, no spoilers but MAN. Yes, I was like oh no! I loved the decorating moments. That is my kind of talk! Say yes today and pick this one up on your way to the beach!



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Review: The Revealing

The Revealing by Suzanne Woods Fisher

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Love did extraordinary things to people. Best line EVER! So I think I am a total disadvantage. This was my first book in this series. It being book three, not a good place to start. Now, can it be a standalone? Sure. Was it good? Yes. But I was lost, who was who, and who belonged to who. I needed a map. I couldn't keep track of them all! Yikes!

You have Tobe who is in prison, and he is secretly married to one of the girls, and the brother doesn't know but then the brother likes one of the other girls. Then you have an English lady visiting the Inn, who is a good replicator of art and ends up committing a crime. Lots of good drama going on if you can keep track of it.

There is also a baby, but is Tobe really the dad? So much going on, sometimes I thought maybe I would like one or two good story lines and keep it more simple myself. I think I might have to check out more books by Ms Fisher, she really got my eye.

That being said, I do think there were some good thoughts in here. Also, at the end, the blueberry lemon squares, already made those! Totally delicious!!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.



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Review: Atlas Girl

Atlas Girl: Finding Home in the Last Place I Thought to Look by Emily T. Wierenga

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


I LOVE this book. It seems like so many people are sharing their story these days. This story however is so much more! I can't recommend this book enough. Emily does an amazing job sharing her's.

Grab a box of kleenex and be prepared to be challenged spiritually as well as wanting to travel after reading this. Also, I do believe that it will make you grow as a person, and it has some laughs! I really just enjoyed every minute.

Emily's story growing up was not all roses as she will tell you and that was refreshing. I loved hearing her love story between her and Trent. All the traveling was so amazing and all the descriptions, wow. Any daughter, mother should read this book. I love how she came full circle. Not only with her mother, but also with her father, sister and just as a person and as a daughter of Christ.

I highly recommend this book. Finally a book and story I want to read!! Way to go Emily. I want to read more by you!!!!

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



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Review: I Need Some Help Here!

I Need Some Help Here!: Hope for When Your Kids Don't Go According to Plan by Kathi Lipp

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


This book is a fantastic resource for any parent. Whether your children are struggling or not, I think we all can relate to something. We are NOT alone. EVER! Praise God for that!

Kathi does a fantastic job in this book. I couldn't put it down. I really enjoyed how she incorporated various stories, with different verses - I feel this is such a good resource. I think this would make an excellent gift to give to new parents, and just lots of different people. Comparsion is really the joy stealer and we need to be so careful to not compare!

I love all the prayers. I will be coming back to this book often, I will be keeping it on my desk to refer to it. I really enjoyed the practical steps part the best I think. The prayers for myself as well. You can't change your kids. You can pray for them, but prayers for them and yourself, yes!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.



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Review: Finding Spiritual Whitespace

Finding Spiritual Whitespace: Awakening Your Soul to Rest by Bonnie Gray

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Whitespace, what is she referring to? It's the space on a page left unmarked. -- When a writer writes, when think it is so easy for them. It should be right? Sometimes no. Bonnie suffers from PTSD, and it gripped her so tightly, that she was unable to continue. Why? That was her question. Why God?

Bonnie's story was so just completely sad, I want to give her a big hug and tell her our God is so amazing to bring her to where she is today and He has so many amazing ways He is going to use her, wow. I can't even begin to imagine.

I really think this book will be useful for so many people. At the end the Whitespace Challenge is so neat. DO IT!!!

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



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Review: The Manual to Manhood

The Manual to Manhood: How to Cook the Perfect Steak, Change a Tire, Impress a Girl & 97 Other Skills You Need to Survive by Jonathan Catherman

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Anything and everything you ever wanted to know is in here! Although it says for men, I think it has a lot of information that is useful for everyone. Some stuff I was really interested in, such as the meats.

We started off with girls and dating. I like Jonathan's style, he makes it fun, he does everything step by step and then he adds a fun fact at the end. He makes it a bit hilarious at times as well.

Then we into social skills and manners, work ethics, money management, grooming and clothing. I really think he covered so many excellent topics. I think when boys leave home this would be a wonderful book to give them, so when they say, what did mom say about ironing my shirts, oh yea, here we go, step by step. Awesome information. Oh yea and I won't burn my shirt maybe as much!!!

Then we went into sports, every sport, how to throw a football, basketball, baseball, play golf then on to cars and then cooking. Finally we ended with tools.

This is such a fabulous resource. We must come up with something similar for girls. I really believe this is an excellent resource that they will come to rely on often until they get the hang of being on their own! Their friends might even borrow it!

I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.



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Review: Surprised by Motherhood

Surprised by Motherhood: Everything I Never Expected about Being a Mom by Lisa-Jo Baker

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


A lawyer with a well-stamped passport and a passion for human rights, Lisa-Jo Baker never wanted to be a mom. And then she had kids. Having lost her own mother to cancer as a teenager, Lisa-Jo felt lost on her journey to womanhood and wholly unprepared to raise children."Surprised by Motherhood" is Lisa-Jo's story of becoming and being a mom, and in the process, discovering that all the "what to expect" and "how to" books in the world can never truly prepare you for the sheer exhilaration, joy, and terrifying love that accompanies motherhood.Set partly in South Africa and partly in the US (with a slight detour to Ukraine along the way), "Surprised by Motherhood" is a poignant memoir of one woman's dawning realization that being a mom isn't about being perfect--it's about being present.

-- My thoughts. I have followed Lisa-Jo for quite awhile on her blog, so I am familiar with her. But I didn't know a lot of her story, so I really enjoyed getting to know a lot more about her. I didn't know that she really didn't want kids, as her mother died. I knew that her mother died when she was 18, but I didn't realize she didn't want kids. I was surprised!

There is a lot in this book, really a lot! I was excited to read this book, don't get me wrong it is fabulous to read, and really makes you stop and think, motherhood is an amazing blessing, and one we SHOULD not take for granted. None of us are perfect and we should all be encouraging one another on this journey and Lisa-Jo is one of those women that I think does!

However, she writes sometimes and just loses me. The words are just so, so beyond descriptive. Is that possible to say? That is what I mean anyway! But enjoy it. I know this copy will stay on my shelf. I think when my girls have children, I will get them a copy. Still a must read for women I think!! I think Lisa-Jo will get better with each book she will write!!!



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Review: Plain Peace

Plain Peace by Beth Wiseman

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Anna’s grandfather seems determined to ruin her Rumspringa . . . and any hopes she has of finding a husband.
Anna Byler should be enjoying her Rumspringa as allowed by her faith. But because of the strict rules enforced by her grandfather—the bishop—the available suitors in town are afraid to court her. Even Anna’s grandmother is keeping a big secret from Anna’s grandfather in an effort to keep the peace. Under her grandfather’s oppressive watch, Anna begins to feel her faith slipping and wonders if God has forsaken her.
Jacob Hostetler and his family have relocated to Lancaster County following a family tragedy in Ohio. As his family struggles to rebuild their lives, Jacob is forced to act as head of the household when his father is unable to cope with recent events. It’s been a long time since Jacob has felt any joy. Until he meets Anna Byler. But will Anna’s grandfather succeed at keeping them apart? And can Jacob put the past behind him and open his heart?

--Lots going on in this book. Marianne has big secrets in her little room in the basement. One that might give her husband a heart attack! Cora and her family are new to the community but they come with their hearts heavy, after losing their oldest daughter Leah, to a farming accident. Will they be able to heal? New love and lots more in this next part of the Daughters of the Promise novel..

Each of Beth Wiseman's books are always so good and so much thought goes into them, you just sit back for awhile and you never really get over them. You want to be a Daughter of the Promise. Let's make it a goal ladies. Be one, TODAY.

I received this book as a part of the Goodreads First Read program in exchange for my honest opinion.



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Review: The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry

The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


In the spirit of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society and The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, Gabrielle Zevin's enchanting novel is a love letter to the world of books-and booksellers-that changes our lives by giving us the stories that open our hearts and enlighten our minds.

On the faded Island Books sign hanging over the porch of the Victorian cottage is the motto "No Man Is an Island; Every Book Is a World." A. J. Fikry, the irascible owner, is about to discover just what that truly means.

A. J. Fikry's life is not at all what he expected it to be. His wife has died, his bookstore is experiencing the worst sales in its history, and now his prized possession, a rare collection of Poe poems, has been stolen. Slowly but surely, he is isolating himself from all the people of Alice Island-from Lambiase, the well-intentioned police officer who's always felt kindly toward Fikry; from Ismay, his sister-in-law who is hell-bent on saving him from his dreary self; from Amelia, the lovely and idealistic (if eccentric) Knightley Press sales rep who keeps on taking the ferry over to Alice Island, refusing to be deterred by A.J.'s bad attitude. Even the books in his store have stopped holding pleasure for him. These days, A.J. can only see them as a sign of a world that is changing too rapidly.

And then a mysterious package appears at the bookstore. It's a small package, but large in weight. It's that unexpected arrival that gives A. J. Fikry the opportunity to make his life over, the ability to see everything anew. It doesn't take long for the locals to notice the change overcoming A.J.; or for that determined sales rep, Amelia, to see her curmudgeonly client in a new light; or for the wisdom of all those books to become again the lifeblood of A.J.'s world; or for everything to twist again into a version of his life that he didn't see coming. As surprising as it is moving, The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry is an unforgettable tale of transformation and second chances, an irresistible affirmation of why we read, and why we love.

-- I knew I had a hit on my hands the minute I read that we would be reading about books. Who doesn't love reading about books in a book??? I adored it! But AJ, although a gruff character, you have to love him! Each character, A.J., Lambiase, Amelia, Maya, Ismay and a few others -- all are so enjoyable and some not so much.

I fell in love and I read in about 5 hours. Told in little snippets, AJ has gotten a second chance. He is a grumpy man. His wife has passed. After being drunk, he finds someone has stolen his precious copy of a limited edition of a poem book of Edgar Allen Poe's. Then, leaving his door unlocked to go running one day, someone leaves a baby in the bookstore. After finding the mother's body floating dead, AJ decides to keep Maya.

What a wonderful story! I recommend it highly! You will come to love AJ and all the inhabitants! It ended way too quickly for me! Zevin is an author I wouldn't even think twice about putting the book in my cart. When I see her name from now on, it will just be added! Thank you shereads.org and Zevin for such a great read!

I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion!



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Review: The Shadow Year

The Shadow Year by Hannah Richell

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


On a sultry summer’s day in 1980, five friends stumble upon an abandoned lakeside cottage hidden deep in the English countryside. For Kat and her friends, it offers an escape; a chance to drop out for a while, with lazy summer days by the lake and intimate winter evenings around the fire. But as the seasons change, tensions begin to rise and when an unexpected visitor appears at their door, nothing will be the same again.

Three decades later, Lila arrives at the same remote cottage. With her marriage in crisis, she finds solace in renovating the tumbledown house. Little by little she wonders about the previous inhabitants. How did they manage in such isolation? Why did they leave in such a hurry, with their belongings still strewn about? Most disturbing of all, why can t she shake the feeling that someone might be watching her?

The Shadow Year is a story of secrets, tragedy, lies and betrayal. It’s a tale that explores the light and dark of human relationships and the potential the past has to not only touch our present, but also to alter our future.

-- Two stories, past and present. I wondered the whole, where is it going to blend. The mystery. The suspense. When I wasn't able to read, the whole time, this book had me guessing and wondering, thinking. I loved how we started off on this journey, the words were just fantastic. The heat, I could feel it. Funny how you really didn't think, how did Mac find the place? When Freya came, it really changed the dynamics. We all love to hate on Simon, but everyone has to have someone in charge. Was he really in charge though?

And then Lila and Tom. Loved the story for them. Heartbreaking but I loved every single word. Literally, I sighed when the last word was read. And gasped. But I won't give it away. This book packs a punch! The reader will be surprised up until the VERY last line. I promise you that!

I was very pleasantly surprised. After the first few chapters I knew I would like this group. I mean, some kind of chaos would ensue. Bullet holes? The mural? Has to. But what? Ah, read and find out!

Thanks, and make sure you go to www.shereads.org for great discussions on this wonderful book and other great books!

Thanks to the publisher for the book in an exchange for my honest opinion and the author for a fantastic read!



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Mailbox Mondays

Good morning!

So what was in my mailbox?

3 books!

Debbie Macomber's newest one, the next part of Rose Harbor, Love Letters. I love Debbie. It is like a visit home. So comfy. Best to clear out your schedule!!

Next up is The Forgotten Seamstress by Liz Trenow. I ADORE the cover of this one! Don't you?

And third, The Matchmaker by Elin Hilderbrand. Perfect beach read to kick off spring!


What is your your mailbox?

Happy reading!

Review: Random Acts of Kindness

Random Acts of Kindness by Lisa Verge Higgins

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


A new novel of women's friendship from the author of The Proper Care and Maintenance of Friendship and Friendship Makes the Heart Grow Fonder.

With the remnants of her past rattling in the trunk of her Chevy, Jenna Elliott abandons her Seattle home determined to start life anew. Her journey compels her to the door of two friends: Claire, an ex-Buddhist nun and cancer survivor, eager to escape her overbearing family for what may be her last chance to fulfill a dream; and Nicole, a professional Life Coach who can’t even control her own teenage son. But what starts out as an impulsive road trip soon becomes an inexorable journey to their past, as the women grapple with who they were, who they are, and the strange twists that have now set them on the road to their hometown of Pine Lake. There, Jenna discovers that her random act of kindness has rippled out into the world like a stone dropped into a deep pond, coming back to rock her life—and those of her friends—in ways they never expected.

-- This was my first book by Lisa. The first 100 pages or so, I liked the friendship between the women but I needed a map or something to keep track of where we were, who was who, and then all the sudden it got good. You know the kind of good, where you must stop everything, tell all your reader friends to grab it good? Yea, that kind of good!

These days everyone has been affected in some way by cancer, divorce, cheating, so this book will be relevant in some way. Lisa has done an excellent job. I loved it so much, I just sat last night and I couldn't get enough of it. My eyes wanted to close, but my mind said no. Three friends go on a road trip, each with their own journey, not really knowing what the other is going through. Picking up others along the way.

With the promise of another book hopefully, I am there!! This definitely will NOT be my last book by Higgins!! I highly recommend this read, but grab a box of Kleenex you will need it. Cheer the ladies on!!!





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Review: Hope Runs

Hope Runs: An American Tourist, a Kenyan Boy, a Journey of Redemption by Claire Díaz-Ortiz

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Sammy Ikua Gachagua had lost his father to illness, his mother to abandonment, and his home to poverty. By age ten, he was living in a shack with seven other children and very little food. He entered an orphanage seeing it as a miracle with three meals a day, a bed to sleep in, and clothes on his back.
When Claire Diaz-Ortiz arrived in Kenya at the end of an around-the-world journey, she decided to stay the night, climb Mt. Kenya, then head back home. She entered an orphanage seeing it as little more than a free place to spend the night before her mountain trek.
God had other plans.
"
Hope Runs "is the emotional story of an American tourist, a Kenyan orphan, and the day that would change the course of both of their lives forever. It's" "about what it means to live in the now when the world is falling down around you. It's about what it means to hope for the things you cannot see. Most of all, it's about how God can change your life in the blink of an eye.

-- Wonderful story of what God can do when we let Him move in our lives. I love how we move back and forth in the story between Sammy and Claire, I loved especially Sammy's story. As Americans, we really take for granted everything we have. I thought this story was just a story of adoption, I didn't know that they started a running program and that really made it over the top for me.

This story brought tears to my eyes and I will tell lots of people about this fantastic book. Too bad we all don't have these thoughts, each one of us, one by one.

I received this book in exchange for my honest opinion.



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Thirty One Review and Giveaway

HUGE GIVEAWAY!
 

HUGE Thirty-One Gift Giveaway ya'll... My friend Melissa is a Thirty-One Consultant and was so kind to let me check out a bag.

 It is a pink and black Zip Top Organizing Utility Tote and I knew I was going to love it but I didn't know I would love it this much!
Melissa is giving a Zip Top Organizing Utility Tote to one lucky winner! ( the winner can select their favorite print! )

 It is so versatile! I can use it for a purse, or sports, practically anything! It has a zipper top so nothing is going to escape and LOTS of pockets!!!

My Bold Bloom Zip Top Organizing Utility Tote! 

I have looked at Melissa's Thirty-One website, you MUST go have a peek!
 Lots to choose from, whether you need a purse or an organizer, there is something for everyone. I personally am going to get the pink purse next week! That is a MUST!!!
  
Also, check out Melissa's Thirty-One Pinterest Board! She has tons going on there too!
  
Click here to be added to Melissa's Monthly Thirty-One Newsletter! I really love knowing all of her sales and new products too! 
   
Personally, Melissa is a really neat lady. I have enjoyed getting to know her, and I am blessed to call her friend. Some days, she pops up in my IM when I need a friend to chat with and I don't even think she knows what it means to me. I will be forever grateful to her. Besides, anyone who reads as much as me, is A-OK in my book!
 

So, now for the really good stuff, the giveaway!

 *USA only, sorry ladies.

 You MUST comment below to enter

If your profile or blog, dosent have a way to contact you, please leave your email address 

( one comment per person please )

Giveaway ends on May 1st!
Winner will be chosen by random drawing
Winner can select their favorite Zip Top Organizing Utility Tote Print!

Review: Sincerely Yours

Sincerely Yours by Jane Kirkpatrick

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


4 short novellas. Good to read, light, enjoyable, you can read them in the car. Entertaining. Certainly satisfying. I don't know, this is why I don't read books that have small stories from different authors. I feel as if they are trying to cram too much into something and few can pull it off.

The first one, it was ok. I did enjoy it, cute story, of course in the end boy gets girl. There was a little mystery there of who Camilla really was, was she who other people were saying?

Second story, the girl is supposed to be trying to catch a husband but instead she is writing. One of my favorites from this book! Very good!

Third one was good, the carousel part was excellent. The fourth was really good, in part because of course I love Jane, and who doesn't love when authors talk about your area, The Dalles being mentioned!! (We live in Goldendale!)

Overall, enjoyable.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.



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Review: Mama Needs a Reboot

Mama Needs A Reboot: Getting Out of the Rut and Bringing Purpose Into Your Home by Allie Casazza

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Mama Needs A Reboot is written by a wife and stay-at-home mom of three small children, who went from depressed, overwhelmed, and on the verge of snapping to truly discovering her purpose in this beautiful but simple life. This book is for the mom who desires to stop barely getting by, start living God's purpose for her life, get out of survival mode, and get out of that rut!
This little book really packs a punch. In it, the author goes over each section of the life of a mom and homemaker, giving simple, effective, and fresh suggestions that will lead you out of your rut and into a happier, more organized life.
Some of the topics covered are
tackling overwhelming housework
simple health and fitness strategies to kick fatigue
what to do when you're about to snap
coming into your role as prayer warrior in your home
learning to give and receive grace during bad days
and more.

-- Allie goes through all the things us mamas need to do to reboot ourselves and our lives, with God's help of course! This book is small, but lots of wisdom nuggets in it!

Mama needs to: get it together, more coffee, pray, be ready, clean, take a time out, needs some me time, make some changes, needs some grace and needs some Jesus.

All of these chapters are so practical and I think we should all reboot every so often. Even though my kids are leaving the nest, this book is still so pracitical, I think in almost every season of our lives, us mamas will find wisdom in this book. You can find more of this book on the website at: http://mamaneedsareboot.blogspot.com/

You can also find more of Allie on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/thepurposefu...

I have been an avid follower of Allie. She brings wisdom, some fashion and hair advice that is much needed to this mama and her kidlets are ADORABLE!!!

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

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Review: The Wife, The Maid, and The Mistress - Ariel Lawhon

The Wife, the Maid, and the Mistress by Ariel Lawhon

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


A tantalizing reimagining of a scandalous mystery that rocked the nation in 1930-Justice Joseph Crater's infamous disappearance-as seen through the eyes of the three women who knew him best.

They say behind every great man, there's a woman. In this case, there are three. Stella Crater, the judge's wife, is the picture of propriety draped in long pearls and the latest Chanel. Ritzi, a leggy showgirl with Broadway aspirations, thinks moonlighting in the judge's bed is the quickest way off the chorus line. Maria Simon, the dutiful maid, has the judge to thank for her husband's recent promotion to detective in the NYPD. Meanwhile, Crater is equally indebted to Tammany Hall leaders and the city's most notorious gangster, Owney "The Killer" Madden.

On a sultry summer night, as rumors circulate about the judge's involvement in wide-scale political corruption, the Honorable Joseph Crater steps into a cab and disappears without a trace. Or does he?

After 39 years of necessary duplicity, Stella Crater is finally ready to reveal what she knows. Sliding into a plush leather banquette at Club Abbey, the site of many absinthe-soaked affairs and the judge's favorite watering hole back in the day, Stella orders two whiskeys on the rocks-one for her and one in honor of her missing husband. Stirring the ice cubes in the lowball glass, Stella begins to tell a tale-of greed, lust, and deceit. As the novel unfolds and the women slyly break out of their prescribed roles, it becomes clear that each knows more than she has initially let on.

With a layered intensity and prose as effervescent as the bubbly that flows every night, The Wife, the Maid, and the Mistress is a wickedly entertaining historical mystery that will transport readers to a bygone era with tipsy spins through subterranean jazz clubs and backstage dressing rooms. But beneath the Art Deco skyline and amid the intoxicating smell of smoke and whiskey, the question of why Judge Crater disappeared lingers seductively until a twist in the very last pages.

-- I believe that if a book makes you want to know more about the subject, the author has done a fantastic job! I think Ms Lawhon did a fantastic job with this mystery. I really enjoyed getting pieces of each character. I didn't have a favorite, I loved each woman. I really enjoy the mystery, and even better since it is based on true facts.

We will probably never know what really happened to the judge but Lawhon did a fabulous job with maybe guessing based on true accounts. I think she definitely has a gift and I hope she continues to write more!



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Review: A Place at the Table - Susan Rebecca White

A Place at the Table by Susan Rebecca White

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


A rich, beautiful novel about three unlikely, complex characters who meet in a chic Manhattan café and realize they must sacrifice everything they ever knew or cared about to find authenticity, fulfillment, and love.

A Place at the Table tells the story of three richly nuanced characters whose paths converge in a chic Manhattan café: Bobby, a gay Southern boy who has been ostracized by his family; Amelia, a wealthy Connecticut woman whose life is upended when a family secret finally comes to light; and Alice, an African-American chef whose heritage is the basis of a famous cookbook but whose past is a mystery to those who know her.

As it sweeps from a freed-slave settlement in 1920s North Carolina to the Manhattan of the deadly AIDs epidemic of the 1980s to today’s wealthy suburbs, A Place at the Table celebrates the healing power of food and the magic of New York as three seekers come together in the understanding that when you embrace the thing that makes you different, you become whole.

-- I started reading this book, and I was in total heaven. Then we switched characters and I was sad for the loss of the last one. Then halfway through, I could start to see the thread weaving the stories together and I whispered to myself, bloody brilliant!! It was like a little petit four, where you bite into it, get one flavor and then halfway through the bite, something else that is even more divine shines through, and then the last bite really just made it over the top! That is the way this book is! All the characters are so three dimensional, I thought any minute Alice would come through the pages.

And who doesn't love cooking in a book? Talk about making me drool! At the back, there is a recipe for Mittie Cumbie Wade's Sour Cream Pound Cake, seems to die for! There is also a book discussion and a chat with the author, which I always love, gives the story behind the story.

This was my FIRST book by Ms White, but it won't be my last! Thank you for such a wonderful read.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.



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Review: Rachel - Jill Eileen Smith

Rachel by Jill Eileen Smith

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Can true love overcome a legacy of betrayal?

Rachel wants nothing more than for her older half sister Leah to wed and move out of their household. Leah wishes her father would find a good man who would love her alone. Unbeknownst to either of them, Jacob is making his way to their home, trying to escape a past laced with deceit and find the future God has promised him.

But the past comes back to haunt Jacob when he finds himself on the receiving end of treachery. The man who wanted only one woman ends up with sisters who have never gotten along and now must spend the rest of their lives sharing a husband. In the power struggles that follow, only one woman will triumph . . . or will she?

Combining meticulous research with her own imaginings, bestselling author Jill Eileen Smith not only tells one of the most famous love stories of all time but will manage to surprise even those who think they know the story inside and out.

-- I knew a little about Rachel/Jacob/Leah but this book really made me think. Rachel and Jacob were in love. They thought Rachel's father had promised to give Rachel to Jacob after working seven years for him. But Laban is sneaky and he makes Jacob seal the deal with his older unmarried daughter, so Jacob has to keep Leah too. So now he has to work seven more years for Laban to give him Rachel too.

This story is fascinating. I really enjoyed it, for the most part. It seemed in areas to drag for me, so that is why I gave it four stars instead of five. I did enjoy it though, but sometimes, I wondered if it had a modern touch, rather than what they really did and thought? That put me off a bit as well. Team Leah here though. I thought that Rachel used her wild ways a bit too much!

I received a copy of this book, in exchange for an honest opinion.





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Review: Bounce Back by Julie Clinton

Bounce Back: When Your Heart is Empty and Your Dreams are Lost by Julie Clinton

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Brokenhearted, disappointed, and wanting more from life—if we are honest, most of us have endured a season or two or incredible difficulty. Julie Clinton sees and hears the needs and concerns of women all over America on a regular basis. She shows the way forward when all seems lost. In this transparent and encouraging book she walks beside her readers, revealing three steps to a more fulfilled life: breathe, believe, and bounce back. Clinton provides wisdom and encouragement to help women rediscover their joy and strength.

-- 1 Peter 5:10 After you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.

Julie Clinton has tons of wonderful wisdom nuggets in this small but wise book. One of the best quotes I think was, "People are lonely because they build walls instead of bridges (Joseph Fort Newton). Isn't that the truth. Julie just describes a lot of different scenarios in which we find ourselves in and wisdom nuggets. The reflection guide at the end I do believe is very thorough, but won't take a lot of time for you to work through. This book is perfect for a gift as well!

This book is so worth the read, underline it, do the exercises. I promise you will BOUNCE back!

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.



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Review: Forget Me Not by Miralee Ferrell

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20928497-forget-me-not" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px">https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/books/1393473583m/20928497.jpg
" />https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20928497-forget-me-not">Forget Me Not by https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/975649.Miralee_Ferrell">Miralee Ferrell
My rating: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/866756520">5 of 5 stars


Can a Lost Love be Redeemed?

Seven years ago, Julia McKenzie rejected the man she loved, wanting to experience more of life. Now, at the age of twenty-four, she regrets that decision. What will Seth think of her, when they encounter one another hundreds of miles from home? Will the man she cared for understand the direction her life has taken and love her in spite of her choices?

Pastor Seth Russell has never completely forgotten the girl he once courted. When she shows up in his new home of Baker City, all those feelings return. But why is she sneaking around town late at night? Even more important, will she reject him and break his heart again?

--That is the question isn't it? Julia becomes a really likeable character right away, she is very person's heroine, helping others less fortunate. All of our old favorite characters make an appearance, which you just love, but we learn a bit from some new ones, ones I hope continue to be in the series...

Julia and Seth were once an item, but Julia left abruptly and Seth was always wondering why. Will they recognize each other and rekindle the love? There are so many themes going on here, grace, mercy and forgiveness abound..

You will LOVE this book! This is the best one yet. Each book I believe stands alone but I think if you read them in order, you will love them that much more! Enjoy, I think it will be a blessing to you, much like it was to me!

I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.


https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/878615-tonya">View all my reviews

Review: The Swan Gondola

<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18079482-the-swan-gondola" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img alt="The Swan Gondola" border="0" src="https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/books/1387171955m/18079482.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18079482-the-swan-gondola">The Swan Gondola</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/131724.Timothy_Schaffert">Timothy Schaffert</a><br/>
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/765710846">5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
A lush and thrilling romantic fable about two lovers set against the scandalous burlesques, midnight séances, and aerial ballets of the 1898 Omaha World’s Fair. <br><br> On the eve of the 1898 Omaha World’s Fair, Ferret Skerritt, ventriloquist by trade, con man by birth, isn’t quite sure how it will change him or his city. Omaha still has the marks of a filthy Wild West town, even as it attempts to achieve the grandeur and respectability of nearby Chicago. But when he crosses paths with the beautiful and enigmatic Cecily, his whole purpose shifts and the fair becomes the backdrop to their love affair.<br><br> One of a traveling troupe of actors that has descended on the city, Cecily works in the Midway’s Chamber of Horrors, where she loses her head hourly on a guillotine playing Marie Antoinette. And after closing, she rushes off, clinging protectively to a mysterious carpetbag, never giving Ferret a second glance. But a moonlit ride on the swan gondola, a boat on the lagoon of the New White City, changes everything, and the fair’s magic begins to take its effect.<br><br> From the critically acclaimed author of The Coffins of Little Hope, The Swan Gondola is a transporting read, reminiscent of Water for Elephants or The Night Circus.<br><br>-- My thoughts:<br><br>I loved EVERY minute of this book. I stopped and reread sentences and lines, eager for each word, savoring it because it ended way too fast. I loved Ferret. He was a good guy, a little down on his luck. But that seemed like it changed when he met Cecily. I just think everyone should read this book. It is that amazing! I will think about this wonderful read for years to come!<br><br>You start out with Ferret landing at the sister's home, and then we go back, way back to find out why. Why was in he that balloon? I loved the bit of mystery, lots of love, friendship and more in this fabulous book! Read it NOW! You won't be sorry!<br><br>I received this book from Goodreads first read program in exchange for my honest opinion!
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Review: Footprints in the Sand

<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15818256-footprints-in-the-sand" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img alt="Footprints in the Sand (Wedding Cake Mystery, #3)" border="0" src="https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/books/1349905097m/15818256.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15818256-footprints-in-the-sand">Footprints in the Sand</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/40517.Mary_Jane_Clark">Mary Jane Clark</a><br/>
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/768097618">5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Plans for a romantic beach wedding are threatened when a bridesmaid goes missing and it falls to Piper Donovan to save the day in the third installment of Mary Jane Clark's enthralling Wedding Cake Mystery series<br><br>"Mary Jane Clark is a master at whipping up delicious nightmares for mystery fans…"-Associated Press<br><br>It's the dead of winter and struggling actress and wedding cake decorator Piper Donovan is thrilled to be in warm and romantic Sarasota, Florida, enjoying the powdery white beaches, soothing seas, and golden sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. She and her family are there to celebrate her beloved cousin's wedding. Not only is Piper creating the sugar sand dollar-festooned wedding cake, she's also the maid of honor.<br><br>But a cloud seems to hover over the whole affair. Shortly after a bridesmaid mysteriously disappears, a kindly neighbor's car is run off the road and a prospective witness, an innocent Amish teenager, is threatened to keep silent. Then a body is found on the wedding beach. With the nuptials threatened, it falls to Piper to unmask a killer. Could it be the wedding planner with something to hide? A doctor and his wife who collect unusual Japanese figurines? The best man, an ex-drug dealer with lecherous eyes and roving hands? What about her cousin's future stepfather-or even the bridegroom himself?<br><br>As Piper gets close to figuring out who's been covering his guilty footprints in the sand, the cunning killer has already set his sights on Piper as his next victim.<br><br>-- My thoughts on this book varied. I really really loved the storyline. It moved fast, but sometimes maybe too fast. I had a hard time keeping up who was who and the mystery just seemed a bit much. I enjoyed Piper, I thought she was a fun character, easy to like and get along with. A bit of a love story in there, I just thought it lacked the extra something to really make me fall in love. Overall, a wonderful beach read....<br><br>I received a copy of this book from Goodreads first read program in exchange for my honest opinion.
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Wishing On Buttercups Blog Tour and GIVEAWAY!!!

I am thrilled to be participating in the blog tour for Wishing on Buttercups. Each tour stop will be giving away one print copy of Wishing on Buttercups, U.S. residents only, so be sure and visit each stop to increase your chances of winning! Giveaway details are given at the bottom of the post.

February 10th – A Book Lover’s Retreat

February 11th – Shelley’s Book Case

February 12th – For the Love of Literature

February 13th - The Book Bag

February 15th - HomeSchooling4boyz

February 17th – Buzzing about Books

February 18th – Stuck on Books

February 19th – The power of words..

February 20th – My Recent Favorite Books

February 22nd – Melina’s Book Blog

February 24th – The Front Porch

February 26th – My Devotional Thoughts

February 28th – Diana’s Tea Time Reviews

February 28th – Create with Joy

Synopsis:

Can Love Survive When Secrets Collide?

She’d kept her secrets safely hidden—those from her past, and those in the present. Some things, Beth Roberts knows, a lady simply doesn’t share, even in the 1880’s West. The townspeople would never understand. No one ever has.

Jeffery Tucker, a handsome young writer, has kept his own secrets. He doesn’t have a right to pry into Beth’s affairs but finds himself strangely drawn to her and intrigued by the whiff of mystery surrounding her.

Beth knows that one day someone will unravel the threads of her past. And when two men from her past arrive, the truth might just hurt . . . Beth’s future and her heart.

As shadowy memories surface, Beth sketches the scenes she sees and is shocked by what—and who—her illustrations reveal. Dare she risk her heart again?

Thoughts:

I couldn't wait to delve into Beth's story, and we go most of the book with bits and pieces of the puzzle. Much like life. We have 2 different main stories, that come together so beautifully at the end. I couldn't get enough!

Each book stands alone, but together it is more enjoyable! You won't want to miss part 2 of some amazing stories of how God can heal places that long have scarred so deeply that you think you can't recover. Miralee really blends in a beautiful storyline with a fantastic message, all of them different and so beautifully written.

Please don't miss out!


Biography:

Miralee Ferrell- headshotMiralee Ferrell is a speaker, accredited counselor, and former ACFW chapter president who has published multiple contemporary and historical romance novels since starting to write in 2005. She enjoys horseback riding, gardening, and family gatherings around their eleven-acre property in Washington State’s beautiful Columbia River Gorge. Miralee has had eight books release, both in women’s contemporary fiction and historical fiction, with another 5 under contract. She’s an award-winning author of Western fiction, and her newest novel, Wishing on Buttercups released February 1, and is the second in a series set in Baker City, Oregon, 1880s.

Interact with Miralee:

Website: www.miraleeferrell.com

Facebook Author page: www.facebook.com/miraleeferrell

Twitter: www.twitter.com/miraleeferrell



Giveaway:

To be entered to win a print copy of Wishing on Buttercups, please ask Miralee a question in the comments below. Be sure to include your email address! Miralee would love to answer questions concerning her books, writing, publishing career, pets, or her hobbies. She will stop by throughout the day to answer questions, so drop in again to read her replies! I will choose a winner on Feb 25th. Good luck to everyone and happy reading!