What would you do if you were wrongly accused of murder?

Book info

About the book: A Respectable Actress (Thomas Nelson, October 2015) When India Hartley is accused of murder, she must uncover the deceptions of others to save herself. India Hartley, a famous and beautiful actress, is now alone after her father's death and embarks upon a tour of theaters across the South. Her first stop is Savannah's Southern Palace. On the eve of the second night's performance, something goes horribly wrong. Her co-star, Arthur Sterling, is shot dead on stage in front of a packed house, and India is arrested and accused of the crime. A benefactor hires Philip Sinclair, the best---and handsomest---lawyer in Savannah to defend India. A widower, Philip is struggling to reinvent his worn-out plantation on St. Simons Island. He needs to increase his income from his law practice in order to restore Indigo Point, and hardly anything will bring him more new clients than successfully defending a famous actress on a murder charge. Because India can't go anywhere in town without being mobbed, Philip persuades the judge handling her case to let him take her to Indigo Point until her trial date. India is charmed by the beauty of the Georgia lowcountry and is increasingly drawn to Philip. But a locked room that appears to be a shrine to Philip's dead wife and the unsolved disappearance of a former slave girl raise troubling questions. Piecing together clues in an abandoned boat and a burned-out chapel, India discovers a trail of dark secrets that lead back to Philip, secrets that ultimately may hold the key to her freedom. If only he will believe her. Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1MUVRqX About the author: A native of west Tennessee, Dorothy Love makes her home in the Texas hill country with her husband and their golden retriever. An award-winning author of numerous young adult novels, Dorothy made her adult debut with the Hickory Ridge novels. When she isn't busy writing or researching her next book, Love enjoys hiking, traveling, and hanging out with her husband Ron and their rambunctious golden retriever. The Loves make their home in the Texas hill country. Find Dorothy online: website, Twitter, Facebook

My Review:
 "A Respectable Actress" is the perfect mix and balance of suspense and romance.  Dorothy Love has created her characters based on real people and historical events which really brings the story alive.  India is a character whom I loved immediately and felt for as she was confused, scared, alone and being accused of a murder she did not think she had committed.  Philip comes to her rescue; however he also has a past and he is trying to move on with his life in all areas. 
I loved the setting of the story and Dorothy did a wonderful job with creating the scene.  Set in the deep south following the war and the devastation that took place in the land, but also in the people's spirits.  Indigo Point is home to Philip and a haven to those living there, but it also holds secrets and is holding the past captive for Philip and others.  I could picture the home, the walkways, the destruction and the vision that Philip had for rebuilding it. 
The other characters added so much to the story and of course my favorites were Celia and Frannie, but Mr. Lockwood became a favorite as well.  I loved the roles that they played in India's life.
The book started right out in the midst of the action and I was immediately engrossed in the story as details from the past and present were woven together. 
I highly recommend this book for Dorothy Love fans and also those who enjoy historical fiction,

To read other reviews included on this blog tour, go here!


*Thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group for including me on this blog tour.*

Can God redeem such a slew of unwise decisions and deep regrets?

Book info

About the book: Valley of Decision (Howard, September 2015) Every choice has a consequence in the explosive conclusion to the Carthage Chronicles as Lisbeth returns to third-century Carthage for a thrilling final adventure. Thirteen years ago, Lisbeth made an impossible decision---leave third-century Carthage and her husband Cyprian behind for good. She knew it was to protect her daughter Maggie, so Lisbeth gathered the strength to move on with her life. All these years, Lisbeth has thrown herself into her work and raising her headstrong daughter, all to live up to the promise she made to Cyprian. But Maggie is sick of being protected. In an act of teenage rebellion Maggie decides to do what her mother can't---secretly returning to the third century on a quest to bring her father back, leaving Lisbeth no choice but to follow. With Maggie's surprise arrival in Carthage, chaos ensues. She finds her grandmother on trial for murder and attempts to save her, but instead the diversion sparks a riot that nearly destroys the plagued city. Only one thing will appease the wrath of the new proconsul of Carthage: the death of the instigator. Will Lisbeth arrive in time to save her daughter from the clutches of Rome? How can God possibly redeem such a slew of unwise decisions and deep regrets? Filled with heart-wrenching twists and riveting action, Valley of Decision brings the romantic adventure epic, The Carthage Chronicles, to an electrifying conclusion. Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1VU6WsA About the author: Lynne Gentry has written for numerous publications. She is a professional acting coach, theater director, and playwright. Lynne is an inspirational speaker and dramatic performer who loves spending time with her family and medical therapy dog. Find Lynne online: website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram My Review: "Valley of Decision" is the exciting and satisfying conclusion to Lynne's Carthage Chronicles series.  Lisbeth made a difficult decision thirteen years ago in order to protect her daughter.  However, now that her daughter has found out about her father and her parents' past, she is secretly setting out on her own path.  Maggie is off at college and then Lisbeth gets the call that she is not actually there.  The day Maggie turns eighteen, a plane ticket is charged. I loved the fast-paced action of this book and the way that it was so easy to switch back and forth between characters, settings and events.   This book is filled with twists and travel between centuries and the theme that shines through is that every choice that anyone makes has consequences.  The drama, suspense and romance interwoven throughout this story draws the reader right into the book and holds you captive until the very end.  To read other reviews included on this blog tour, go here! *Thanks to the Litfuse Publicity Group for including me on this blog tour.*

Book Review - "The Imposter"

"The Imposter" is an excellent start to Suzanne Woods Fisher's new Amish fiction series!  I have really enjoyed all of Suzanne's books, so of course I was thrilled when she had a new release and I absolutely loved this book cover, so perfect for this time of the year and it is gorgeous.  This book is full of so many twists and turns that I could not read fast enough, but then of course when I finished the book I was disappointed that it was over.  I love how the story begins with the announcement that had been placed on David's behalf and the girls' reactions to it; this was a great start and dove right into the action and into the characters' lives.  Katrina is an excellent main character as she is juggling multiple roles and trying to cope with her heartbreak, but also be there for her family and also taking on a new job.  The other characters added so much to this story as well and I cannot wait to read book #2 to see where the story goes.  If you love Amish fiction, this is a must-read!  I enjoyed the return to Stoney Ridge as well and love this town full of quirky characters and secrets to be uncovered. 


*Thanks to the Revell Reads Program for the complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.*

Can Josh save the former U.S. president AND the woman he loves from the deadly disease?

Book info

About the book: Miracle Drug (Abingdon, September 2015) Overcoming these odds will take more than a miracle drug---it will take a miracle. The infection wasn't supposed to happen, but it did. The treatment was supposed to take care of it, but it didn't. Then Dr. Josh Pearson discovers why---his patients, including the former President of the United States, have been dosed with a different strain of the original virus, one that is universally fatal. The only chance for survival is treatment with an experimental drug, but the manufacturer might already have discarded its supply. As if treating the President of the United States isn't stressful enough, the situation goes from bad to worse when Rachel Moore, a nurse Josh is falling in love with, falls ill. With the nation's eyes on him, Josh must pull off a miracle to save a man who holds a good deal of power and the woman who holds his heart. Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1L8pNgx About the author: Dr. Richard Mabry is a retired physician who writes "medical suspense with heart." His novels have won multiple awards: a semifinalist for International Thriller Writers' debut novel; finalists for the Carol Award, Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, and Romantic Times' Reader's Choice Award; and both finalist and winner of the Selah Award. "Miracle Drug" is his ninth published novel. He and his wife live in Frisco, Texas. Find Richard online: website, Facebook, Twitter My Review: I have been a fan of Richard L. Mabry, M.D.'s books ever since I read his first one and "Miracle Drug" reminded me how much I love his books!  This takes suspense to a whole new level as the medical profession is tied in as well as needing to protect one of the most influential individuals in the United States.  Dr. Josh Pearson is shocked when a colleague suddenly dies and he is appointed as the physician to an ex-president, shocked over the supposed cause of the death, but also shocked at the appointment.  When Former President Madison and a nurse who had traveled out of the country return to the United States with a very rare infection, Josh is forced to make difficult decisions under watchful eyes.  Adding to the stress, Josh is in love with the nurse, Rachel, and this seems to be his second chance at happiness. This book begins with drama and throws the reader right into the midst of the action and suspense and holds the reader's attention all the way to the end.  There are so many other characters that are involved as Mr. Madison is so important that he is constantly surrounded by people of power and those whom have connections around the world and are able to make things happen.  However, Josh quickly learns that one can never be too trusting and money and power may be stronger than loyalty.  I found myself guessing and changing my mind several times throughout the book as I thought I knew who was behind something and what someone else was up to, but I was surprised and eager to read on and unravel all of the layers of the story.  I highly recommend this book for those whom enjoy suspense with romance sprinkled in and the medical aspect is an added bonus.  To read other reviews included on this blog tour, go here! *Thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group for including me on this blog tour and for the complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.*

Book Review - "Murder at the Courthouse"

I am a fan of Ann H. Gabhart's novels and was thrilled to see a new one from her and enjoy that her books all have the things that make them enjoyable, even though the type of novel can vary so much.  "Murder at the Courthouse" is a mystery that draws the reader into the story, into trying to figure out "who done it" and into the characters' lives, including the small town charm. 
Michael's new job and news stage in his life is not starting out how he pictured.  Miss Willadeam's discovery had seen to that and I loved how Ann began this book and her description of this wonderfully colorful character. 
Hidden Springs along with each of the characters was brought to life as Ann writes with such imagery.  I felt as if I was transported there and a part of this town and the mystery that Michael is trying to unravel and solve.  I am looking forward to book #2 in this series coming out. 


*Thanks to Revell Reads for the complimentary copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.*

Book Review - "You Can't Text A Tough Conversation"

You Can't Text a Tough Conversationby Mike Bechtle

When it comes to the tough stuff, we need real, face-to-face conversations. But have we lost the art?

There's no denying that as our use of technology has increased, our communication skills have decreased. Technology creates the illusion of being in touch, but we lose the deeper meaning conveyed by body language, facial expression, and tone of voice. We text when we should talk. We tweet firings and breakups. We vent our frustrations with other people online. Whether it's with a spouse, a friend, a boss, a co-worker, or children, those tough conversations create high anxiety. In the end, what we have are broken relationships and hurt feelings.

In this timely book, communication expert Mike Bechtle shows you how to build strong relationships, offering tried-and-true methods to navigate the muddy waters of having tough conversations--in person. With his help, you'll learn to be a better listener, give and receive genuine feedback, saturate your relationships with kindness, and much more--so that you'll feel confident when it comes time to actually talk.


Mike Bechtle (EdD, Arizona State University) is the author of People Can't Drive You Crazy If You Don't Give Them the Keys and How to Communicate with Confidence. His articles have appeared in publications such as Writer's Digest, Pastors.com, and Entrepreneur. A frequent speaker and blogger, Bechtle lives in California


My Review:
This book is a practical read and so necessary in today's society as so often we all do our communicating via some form of social media or through an electronic device instead of face to face.  Mike brings up so many real points and reminders in regards to what real conversation is and what is all a part of it.  This book is divided into 4 main sections making this an easy and very useful resource and guide.  The process and art of conversation is discussed in the first section while the second addressed that tools that are needed to have communication.  The third section discusses the various skills that are needed and should be developed in order for real communication.  Lastly, section four deal with growing and changing in conversation which to me gives permission to use technology and adjust with the changing times if you are prepared and use it properly, meaning once the tools and skills are learned and utilized  and knowing the time and place for various forms of communication.  An added touch to this book which I loved were the quotes that were at the beginning of each chapter, added a little extra to the book. 


*Thanks to Revell Reads for the complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.* .

"Fire & Ice"

"Fire & Ice" is book 3 in Mary Connealy's Wild at Heart series and the conclusion to the Wilde sisters trilogy.  I have read and enjoyed this trilogy, but honestly this book is probably my favorite!  Bailey is the oldest of the sisters and has always tried to take care of her sisters and protect them; however she finds herself alone and her sisters moving on with their own lives and she is struck by the feelings of loneliness that she is experiencing.  Gage has played a role in the other two books in this series, but now he plays a much bigger role when he is forced to propose a deal to Bailey. 
I loved this book, the storyline was wonderful and I loved the characters, both minor and major.  Gage's mother made me laugh out loud several times and at other times I wanted to cry with her.  Gage was a character whom I did not care for early on in the series, but I grew to love him just as much as the other main characters in the previous novels as well. 
I have so looking forward to seeing what Mary writes next and what characters I can spend time with and fall in love with!


*Thanks to Bethany House Publishers for the complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.*

Chinese Cooking - all you need!

If you enjoy Chinese food and would like to try and make your own, then this cookbook is for you!

"Phoenix Claws and Jade Trees: essential techniques of authentic Chinese cooking" is a wonderful collection that is the one and only resource you will need.  This book shares different tidbits about the origins of various cooking techniques, cooking utensils and recipes.  I love how that is added in as an introduction to a section or to share a story about a specific recipe.  The book begins with discussing the various regions in China and the types of food that are eaten in each one and what authentic Chinese food actually is.  There are some recipes in this book that I have not ever heard of, but that look and sound delicious.  Then there are also other recipes which I love ordering at a local Chinese restaurant and I am looking forward to trying to prepare in my own kitchen such as sweet-and-sour pork and shrimp and asparagus fried rice. 

For more information about this book, go here!

To learn more about the author, go here!

**"I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review."**

"A Respectable Actress"

"A Respectable Actress" is the perfect mix and balance of suspense and romance.  Dorothy Love has created her characters based on real people and historical events which really brings the story alive.  India is a character whom I loved immediately and felt for as she was confused, scared, alone and being accused of a murder she did not think she had committed.  Philip comes to her rescue; however he also has a past and he is trying to move on with his life in all areas. 
I loved the setting of the story and Dorothy did a wonderful job with creating the scene.  Set in the deep south following the war and the devastation that took place in the land, but also in the people's spirits.  Indigo Point is home to Philip and a haven to those living there, but it also holds secrets and is holding the past captive for Philip and others.  I could picture the home, the walkways, the destruction and the vision that Philip had for rebuilding it. 
The other characters added so much to the story and of course my favorites were Celia and Frannie, but Mr. Lockwood became a favorite as well.  I loved the roles that they played in India's life.
The book started right out in the midst of the action and I was immediately engrossed in the story as details from the past and present were woven together. 
I highly recommend this book for Dorothy Love fans and also those who enjoy historical fiction,

‘The Splendor of Ordinary Days’ Kindle Fire HD 6 Giveaway

When several military veterans’ emotional wounds trigger anger and unrest in Watervalley, Dr. Luke Bradford learns some important lessons in service, courage, love, and sacrifice in The Splendor of Ordinary Days by Jeff High. As Luke struggles to understand Vietnam War veteran Luther’s past, and restore harmony in Watervalley, an unforeseen crisis shatters a relationship he values dearly.

Join Jeff in celebrating the release of The Splendor of Ordinary Days with a Kindle Fire HD 6 giveaway!

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• Signed copies of all three Watervalley books
• A Kindle Fire HD 6

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 27th. The winner will be announced October 28th on Jeff's blog.

Book info

About the book: The Splendor of Ordinary Days (NAL, October 2015) The pastoral charm of small-town Watervalley, Tennessee, can be deceptive, as young Dr. Luke Bradford discovers when he's caught in the fallout of a decades-old conflict. After a rocky start as Watervalley's only doctor, Luke Bradford has decided to stay in town, honoring the three-year commitment he made to pay off his medical school debts. But even as his friendships with the quirky townsfolk deepen, and he pursues a romance with lovely schoolteacher Christine Chambers, several military veterans' emotional wounds trigger anger and unrest in Watervalley. At the center of the clash is the curmudgeonly publisher of the local newspaper, Luther Whitmore. Luther grew up in Watervalley, but he returned from combat in Vietnam a changed man. He fenced in beautiful Moon Lake, posting "Keep Out" notices at the beloved spot, and provokes the townspeople with his incendiary newspaper. As Luke struggles to understand Luther's past, and restore harmony in Watervalley, an unforeseen crisis shatters a relationship he values dearly. Suddenly Luke must answer life's toughest questions about service, courage, love, and sacrifice. Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1Pl62pi   About the author: After growing up on a farm in rural Tennessee, Jeff High attained degrees in literature and nursing. He is the three-time winner, in fiction and poetry, of an annual writing contest held by Vanderbilt Medical Center. He lived in Nashville for many years, and throughout the country as a travel nurse, before returning to his original hometown, near where he now works as an operating room RN in open-heart surgery. He is the author of the Watervalley novels, including More Things in Heaven and Earth and Each Shining Hour. Connect with Jeff: website, Twitter, Facebook My Review: Jeff High brings readers a story that will transport them to a small town and a feeling of returning home in his book, "The Splendor of Ordinary Days."  Luke started out merely fulfilling a commitment he made to be a doctor in Watervalley; however, the roots are there and hold him captive including his heart.  There are so many bits and pieces to this story that make it a great read and one that will tug at your heart and emotions.  The characters in this town have quirks that make them real and bring them alive and the struggles that they are facing are so real as well.  The content of this book is a bit "racier" than Christian romance fiction, but do not let that stop you from giving this series a try. To read other reviews on this blog tour, go here! *Thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group for including me on this blog tour and for the complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.*

‘Just Show Up’ by Kara Tippetts and Jill Lynn Buteyn (Plus a Tried & True Friendship Giveaway)

What does friendship look like in the midst of changing life seasons, loads of laundry—and even cancer? Kara Tippetts and Jill Lynn Buteyn teamed up to write Just Show Up, a story of their close friendship and walk through Kara's battle with terminal cancer. Whether you are eager to be present to someone going through a difficult time or simply want inspiration for pursuing friends in a new way, this eloquent and practical book explores the gift of silence, the art of receiving, and what it means to just show up.

Celebrate the gift of friendship with a Tried & True Friendship giveaway—a prize for you and for a friend!

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of Just Show Up
• Two Ombre Layer Necklaces—one for you and one for a friend

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 23rd. The winner will be announced October 26th on Jill's blog.

Is one of your friends going through a tough time—maybe you need some encouragement? Stop by Kara and Jill's author page, click on the reviews bar, and read through some bloggers' stories of how their friends got them through suffering.

Book info

About the book: Just Show Up (David C Cook, October 2015) Kara Tippetts's story was not a story of disease, although she lost her battle with terminal cancer. It was not a story of saying goodbye, although she was intentional in her time with her husband and four children. Kara's story was one of seeing God in the hard and in the good. It was one of finding grace in the everyday. And it was one of knowing "God with us" through fierce and beautiful friendship. In Just Show Up, Kara and her close friend, Jill Lynn Buteyn, write about what friendship looks like in the midst of changing life seasons, loads of laundry, and even cancer. Whether you are eager to be present to someone going through a difficult time or simply want inspiration for pursuing friends in a new way, this eloquent and practical book explores the gift of silence, the art of receiving, and what it means to just show up. Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1Guvl0N   About the authors: The late Kara Tippetts was the author of "The Hardest Peace" and blogged faithfully at mundanefaithfulness.com. Cancer was only a part of Kara's story. Her real fight was to truly live while facing a crushing reality. Since her death in March 2015, her husband, Jason, is parenting their four children and leading the church they founded in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Read Kara's blog. Jill Lynn Buteyn is the author of "Falling for Texas," an inspirational novel, and a recipient of the ACFW Genesis Award for her fiction work. She has a bachelor's degree in communications from Bethel University. Jill lives near the beautiful Rocky Mountains with her husband and two children. Connect with Jill: website, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram My Review: If you are hoping to make new friends or be more intentional with your friends, then "Just Show Up" is the book for you!  This book is an excellent and quick read that has left me thinking about friendships I currently have and ones that I had in the past as well.  Kara and Jill's friendship is the backbone to this book that they wrote together and through their stories and relationship the reader can gain a new perspective on making friends and building friendships.  A part that really stood out to me is the point that truly the key is just showing up.  So often it can seen that a lot of time and effort is needed to be a good friend as you  may feel like you have to say the right thing or keep a conversation going, when really just your presence is what matters and what is needed.  I loved how it was further explained and described as a dance, meaning we don't have to be perfect, each and every thing we say and do does not have to be just so and perfect, mistakes will be made, things won't always go just as planned or hoped and that is fine.  This book is just such an inspiring read and thought provoking in regards to being friends and how to become the friend I want to be.  To read other reviews included on this blog tour, go here! *Thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group for including me on this blog tour and for the complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.*

Yes, you can forever change the direction of your family's spiritual legacy-starting now!

Book info

About the book:Pass It On (David C. Cook, September 2015) Parents often experience a "freak out" moment when they realize their children's view of God will primarily come from what they learn at home. Most parents spend more time helping their kids succeed at academics or athletics than infusing shared spiritual experiences into the rhythm of everyday family life. While the idea of strategically passing down our faith can seem intimidating, the annual Rites of Passage Experiences contained in Pass It On make it easy for your family to celebrate milestones from kindergarten through high school graduation. Forever change the direction of your family's spiritual legacy . . . starting now! Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1jCKyrU About the authors:   Jim Burns is president of HomeWord and executive director of the HomeWord Center for Youth and Family at Azusa Pacific University. He has more than 1.5 million resources in print and a radio broadcast heard on 800 stations a day. Jim resides in Southern California with his wife Cathy and their three daughters. Connect with Jim online: website, Twitter, Facebook Jeremy Lee is the founder of ParentMinistry.Net, a subscription-based service for children and youth ministry workers. He was on the writing team for the Simple Truth Bible from Group Publishing and the Ignite Study Bible from Thomas Nelson Publishers. Jeremy lives in Nashville with his wife and children. Connect with Jeremy online: website, Twitter, Facebook My Review: It is scary and overwhelming to think how much responsibility we as parents have in regards to teaching our children, teaching them in all areas of their lives, including their spiritual health.  Jim Burns & Jeremy Lee have joined together to write the book, "Pass It On," to help parents build a legacy that will live in their children.  This book is amazing and a must-have and must-read for parents.  I love the layout of this book as the first few chapters set the scene and tone of this book and the idea behind it.  Then each chapter focuses on each school grade, Kindergarten through grade 12.  There is a specific area to be addressed during each grade which is discussed in detail.  Then each chapter ends with bulleted lists that explain where your child and typical children in that grade are at physically, emotionally, relationally and also spiritually.  I am thrilled with this book as a mother and am excited to teach these lessons and instill these concepts in my children to prepare them for the future.  To read other reviews included on this blog tour, go here! *Thanks to the Litfuse Publicity Group and for the complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.*

"The Chili Cookbook"

"The Chili Cookbook" is a must-have for anyone and everyone who loves chili!  I love this book, it is so much more than just a collection of chili recipes.  This book is filled with a wide variety of recipes that stem from tex-mex origins, those from the deep south, old Mexico and vegetarian recipes as well. 
Interspersed throughout this cookbook are pictures, both of recipes and old photographs to add to the stories shared as well.  I enjoyed reading through the recollections and stories shared to go along with the variety of chili recipes. 
I would also recommend this book for those who want to try various chili recipes as there is something in here for everyone!  And while the chili is simmering you can page through and read stories and look at photographs. 


To read more info about this book, go here!


To learn about the author, go here!


*"I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review."

"Love Takes the Cake"

Book Description from the publisher:

Meet the people who make it all happen—the planners, the photographers, the musicians who have helped orchestrate the perfect day for countless couples—as they find their own happy endings in the second Year of Weddings novella collection.
She’s known for her delicious cakes, but there’s no recipe for dealing with the new man in her life. Charlotte owns the best bakery in Louisiana, and clients come from near and far for her renowned wedding cakes. And while the wedding scene is Charlotte’s place to shine, her own love life is more dull than ever. After a string of failed relationships—and men who actually were too good to be true—she has decided to throw herself into her craft and leave love and marriage to her clients. Will is a successful entrepreneur but devotes much of his spare time to caring for his ill mother. He knows he doesn't have much time left with her, so he has done everything he can to guard his heart from relationships. And what girl would understand that he needs to spend all his time with his mother? But when his best friend calls in his help for his September wedding, Will can’t refuse. He's always been there for those closest to him. And when he finds out they don’t have a wedding cake yet, he knows exactly where to go—the bakery owned by the beautiful, mysterious young woman he buys treats from. Charlotte assumes Will is just another party boy who flirts with all the bridesmaids. But is Will hiding something that explains his behavior? And despite their reservations, will they be able to deny the chemistry between them?


My Review:
I am a fan of Betsy's books as I enjoy her style of writing, her characters and storylines; this new novella is just as wonderful as her novels.  Charlotte and Will are both loveable characters and ones that I immediately liked as they are easy to relate to as they are each dealing with things in their own lives that have not made their lives easy.  Neither of them are actively seeking a relationship, but once they meet and their interactions with each other result in curiosity and chemistry.  This is such a sweet story and I love the various relationships between the characters and how they are woven into the storyline.  I love this novella collection as I love weddings, but I also love the focus of each one being on a different aspect of planning and having a wedding and that although they are novellas, I feel as if the story is complete. 


*Thanks to the BookLook Bloggers Program for the complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.*

Imagine being held captive for 70 years without aging a day, only to escape into modern-day 2015

Book info

About the book: The Methuselah Project (Kregel, September 2015) Nazi scientists started many experiments. One never ended. Roger Greene is a war hero. Raised in an orphanage, the only birthright he knows is the feeling that he was born to fly. Flying against the Axis Powers in World War II is everything he always dreamed---until the day he's shot down and lands in the hands of the enemy. When Allied bombs destroy both his prison and the mad genius experimenting on POWs, Roger survives. Within hours, his wounds miraculously heal, thanks to those experiments. The Methuselah Project is a success---but this ace is still not free. Seventy years later, Roger hasn't aged a day, but he has nearly gone insane. This isn't Captain America---just a lousy existence only made passable by a newfound faith. The Bible provides the only reliable anchor for Roger's sanity and his soul. When he finally escapes, there's no angelic promise or personal prophecy of deliverance, just confusion. It's 2015---and the world has become an unrecognizable place. Katherine Mueller---crack shot, genius, and real Southern Belle---offers to help him find his way home. Can he convince her of the truth of his crazy story? Can he continue to trust her when he finds out she works for the very organization he's trying to flee? Thrown right into pulse-pounding action from the first page, readers will find themselves transported back in time to a believable, full-colored past, and then catapulted into the present once more. The historical back-and-forth adds a constantly moving element of suspense to keep readers on the edge of their seats. Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1GcsGbS About the author:   Rick Barry is the author of Gunner's Run, another World War II novel, Kiriath's Quest, and over 200 articles and fiction stories. In addition to being a World War II buff, he is the director of church planting ministries at BIEM, a Christian ministry operating in Eastern Europe. He holds a degree in foreign languages, speaks Russian, and has visited Europe more than fifty times. Rick lives in Indianapolis, Indiana. Connect with Rick online: website, Twitter, Facebook My Review: This book is an interesting read that is filled with adventure, suspense and sci-fi; therefore, it will appeal to so many.  Roger's story is so well-written and it was so easy to become a part of his world both in the past and present day and root for him every step of the way.  And then there is Katherine, I loved her character as well and the role she plays and the relationship with Roger.  I was not really sure what to expect when I read the blurb about this book and I was pleasantly surprised as to how much I really enjoyed it.  This is a thought-provoking read that is appealing and will hold the reader captive. To read other reviews included on this blog tour, go here! *Thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group for including me on this blog tour and for the complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.*