Monday, December 29, 2014

"The Skinnytaste Cookbook"

"The Skinnytaste Cookbook" is a wonderful compilation of recipes by Gina Homolka, whom created and writes the skinnytaste blog.  This book contains a great variety of recipes complete with pictures of the food. I am looking forward to trying many of these recipes as they are low on calories and use ingredients that are common and I typically have on hand already at home.  Also, there is a variety of cooking styles, including skillet and using the slow cooker which I love as some days it is more convenient to throw things in my crock pot in the morning and let it cook all day.  I highly recommend this cookbook for anyone whom enjoys this blog, whom is looking for lighter recipes that are full on flavor and easy to prepare. 


Click here for more info on the book!


To learn more about this author, click here!


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

Book Review - "The Wishing Season"

"The Wishing Season," part of Denise Hunter's Chapel Springs series, is a wonderful read that is not to be missed for those whom have become a fan of Denise's books and the McKinley family.  First of all I love this cover, it is just so cute and so perfect for this time of year! :)  Also, I have loved the previous two books in this series so I just had to read this book as soon as I was able to and I was not disappointed. PJ and Cole are both wonderful main characters; I loved them and their hearts and rooted for both of them pursuing their dreams right away from the start. Denise has such a talent for writing as she is able to bring the characters and the setting to life.  Also, although the focus is on PJ, the rest of the family are all a part of the story and I love how it is so easy to get back into the storyline that is continued from the previous novels.
I highly recommend this sweet love story and am looking forward to the next in the series coming out in June!


*Thanks to Net Galley for the digital copy of this book.*

Tuesday, December 9, 2014

THE Perfect coffee table book!


I started paging through "Novel Interiors" as soon as I took it out of the box!  What a gorgeous and inspiring book!  Not only is this book filled with beautiful pictures, but it is filled with quotes that any book lover will enjoy.  This has me thinking about different ways to decorate my house, but it has also had me starting a list of novels that I just have to read now as the pictures and quotes have me wanting to find out the whole story.  I am a complete book lover and if you know a person who is and you still need to get him or her a Christmas present, do not hesitate a second in getting this for them!  This is a wonderful book that I am going to spend hours and hours looking through and enjoying!


To read more about this book, go here!


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



Book Review - "NKJV Note-Taker's Bible"


Book Description from the publisher:


Finally, a hardcover Bible that has plenty of room for taking notes during public or private worship, small group fellowships, or any other time or place you feel the need to make comments on the Bible. No more cramped writing in tiny margins—the NKJV Note-Takers Bible makes it easy to stay organized and neat. Personalize the text of God's Word to your life as never before, and treasure this record of your spiritual journey. Includes the complete text of the popular New King James Version

Features:

  • Deluxe wide margins for note takers
  • Complete NKJV text
  • Double column text for easy reading
  • Words of Christ in red letter
My Review:
I am so happy with this Bible!  I am a person whom likes to takes notes right next to the text that they refer to, so that everything is together and convenient to go back and read.  However, in "traditional" Bibles (at least all the Bibles I own!) the margins are pretty small and make it difficult to take notes next to the text, so then I feel like I am squeezing words into a too small space and then it looks messy or I have to write in other areas that do not correspond with what I am writing.  This note-taker's Bible is ideal for taking notes right by the Biblical text that the notes are about; therefore it is going to be easy to take notes in church, or in personal study time and be able to go back at a later time and read through the notes.  I would highly recommend this Bible as a gift for someone whom likes to take notes or someone whom has expressed frustration over the lack of space to take notes. 


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

Thursday, December 4, 2014

Quilts of Love | SWEPT AWAY – Kindle Giveaway & “Merry Quilted” Facebook Party!


Swept Away Quilts of Love Laura V Hilton Cindy Loven
Don’t miss the newest Quilts of Love book, Swept Away by Laura V. Hilton and Cindy Loven. November’s QOL release is a spark of romance and fun just in time for the holidays.

Enter to win a Kindle HDX, and RSVP for the “Merry Quilted” Quilts of Love Facebook party on December 9th. 
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One winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire
  • Swept Away by Laura V. Hilton and Cindy Loven
  • Hidden in the Stars by Robin Caroll
  • Quilted by Christmas by Jodie Bailey
Enter today by clicking the button below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on December 9th. Winner will be announced during the "Merry Quilted" Christmas Facebook party on December 9th. RSVP today and connect with some of the Quilts of Love authors (Jodie Bailey, Laura V. Hilton, Cindy Loven, Cathy Elliott, and Gina Welborn) for a "merry" evening of book chat, Christmas traditions, prizes, and more!
qol-sweptaway-enterbanner
{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on December 9th!


Book Info
About Quilts of Love: Quilts tell stories of love and loss, hope and faith, tradition and new beginnings. The Quilts of Love series focuses on the women who quilted all of these things into their family histories. A new book releases each month and features contemporary and historical romances as well as women's fiction and the occasional light mystery. You will be drawn into the endearing characters of this series and be touched by their stories.

About the book: 

Sara doesn't think she wants love. But her grandmother has other plans.
Sara Jane Morgan is trying to balance teaching with caring for her ailing, stubborn grandmother. When school lets out for the summer, the plans are for Grandma to teach Sara Jane to quilt as they finish up the Appalachian Ballad quilt Grandma started as a teenager. But things don't always go as planned.
Andrew Stevenson is hiding from his past---and his future. He works as a handyman to pay the bills, but his heart is as an artisan, designing homemade brooms. When Sara Jane's grandmother hires him to renovate her home, sparks fly between Drew and his new employer's granddaughter.
Still, it doesn't take Sara Jane long to see Drew isn't what he seems. Questions arise, and she starts researching him online. What she discovers could change her life---and her heart---forever.

Learn more about this book and the series at the Quilts of Love website.

About the Authors: 

Laura V. Hilton is an award-winning author and a professional book reviewer. A stay-at-home mom and home school teacher, Laura lives with her family in Horseshoe Bend, Arkansas. Cindy Loven is active in the church and writes from her home in Conway, Arkansas, where she lives with her husband and their son.

My Review:
"Swept Away" is the latest novel in the Quilts of Love series and it was a sweet story that I thoroughly enjoyed. Sara is trying to live her own life; however she is the only family left for her grandmother and feels responsible for her as well especially as Sara feels guilty over her parents' deaths.  Andrew has been dealing with hurt and guilt in his life and has been off the radar; however he gets drawn back into society.  Throughout the book both Andrew and Sara are trying to sort through things in their own lives and if there is anyway to move forward.  This is a complex book as there is so much included in this book including details about hiking, quilting, ballads, in addition to family relationships and moving forward and forgiving one's self.  "Swept Away" is one of my favorite books in this series so far; I highly recommend this.

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

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

Fire Up the Romance this Holiday with @RobinLeeHatcher’s “Love Without End” Kindle Fire Giveaway!


Robin Lee Hatchers Love Without End
Fire up the romance this holiday with Robin Lee Hatcher's latest offering in the King's Meadow Romance series, Love Without EndFor two single parents with bruised hearts, it’ll take more than a little courage to get back on the horse when it comes to love.

Celebrate love rising from the ashes of tragedy with Robin by entering her Kindle Fire giveaway.
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 One grand prize winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire
  • Love Without End and the rest of the King's Meadow Romance series from Robin Lee Hatcher
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on December 14th. Winner will be announced December 15th on Robin's blog.
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{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

About the book: Love Without End || A King's Meadow Romance (Thomas Nelson, November 2014)

Chet and Kimberly have both failed when it comes to love. Will they risk their hearts to love again?

Chet Leonard's life was forever changed when his 17-year-old son died and then, soon after, his wife walked out on their family. Over two years later, all he wants to do is hold onto his horse ranch and raise his remaining sons to be honorable men.

Kimberly Welch, widowed mother of Tara, a rebellious 15-year-old, has reached the end of her finances and nearly the end of her rope. She and Tara come to King's Meadow to try to piece their lives back together again. Kimberly has no intention of becoming involved with the residents of this remote mountain community and certainly not with any man.
When octogenarian Anna McKenna returns to King's Meadow and to the Leonard ranch, she becomes an agent of change and healing for the two hurting families. With her help, Kimberly and Chet may discover that true love has no end.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/EjjGc 

About the author: Best-selling novelist Robin Lee Hatcher is known for her heart-warming and emotionally charged stories of faith, courage, and love. The winner of the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, the RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance, two RT Career Achievement Awards, and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award, Robin is the author of over sixty novels.

Find Robin online: website, Facebook, Twitter



My Review:
Robin Lee Hatcher's latest novel is a sweet love story and "Love Without End" focuses on a character and place we met in her previous novel, "A Promise Kept."  Chet is given a second chance for love and happiness in this novel and it is a beautiful story that focuses on family, second chances and love. Kimberly and Chet are such real-characters and they are so easy to relate to; I found myself empathizing with them throughout the book.  Robin has a true talent for bringing real life situations and real life family to life in this book.  The difficulties in life are not glossed over, but shared in a way that makes the reader know that she is not alone.  This is a sweet romance that is so real and draws the reader immediately into the story. 

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

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

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

Book Review - :"The Bracelet"

Book Description from the publisher:



The mystery surrounding Celia's home in Savannah threatens her family reputation . . . and her very life.
Celia Browning is counting the days until her childhood sweetheart Sutton Mackay returns to Savannah after two years in Jamaica looking after his family's shipping interests. She's certain he will propose marriage, thus joining two of the city's most prominent families. But just as Sutton returns, an unsavory newspaper reporter arrives in town, determined to revive interest in the secret tragedies that occurred in the Browning mansion on Madison Square when Celia was a child.
A series of mysterious notes arrives at the house, followed by an anonymous gift-a bracelet imbued with a sinister message. Is it merely a coincidence, or is someone out to harm her?
As war clouds gather over Savannah and her beloved father's health worsens, Celia determines to uncover the truth about what really happened all those years ago.
Inspired by actual events in one of Savannah's most prominent 19th-century families,The Bracelet combines romance, rich historical detail, and breathtaking suspense as one young woman embarks upon a dangerous quest to free herself from her family's tragic past.
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.


My Review:
I am a fan of Dorothy Love's books and as soon as I saw the cover of her latest novel, "The Bracelet," I knew I HAD to read this one as well!  And I was not disappointed!  This book is so well-written and it totally captivated me from the start!  "The Bracelet" is filled with tension, suspense, secrets and yes romance, and it will keep you thinking about it long after you finish.  I would love to finish Savannah, Georgia and I love how Dorothy brings this city to life in this book.  The story takes place pre-war and the city just sounds wonderful and also so intriguing.  Celia is a strong, and determined main character, but also a romantic and she is waiting for a proposal from the man of her dreams.  I really liked Celia and enjoyed reading about her.  I love that this book is based on a real family and real experiences.  I highly recommend this book for those whom enjoy historical fiction.


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

Tuesday, November 25, 2014

A great resource to include in Christmas traditions.

"Unwrapping the Greatest Gift: A Family Celebration of Christmas" by Ann Voskamp is a beautiful collection of stories and activities for families to read and share together in during the month of December leading up to Christmas to learn and celebrate the real meaning of the Christmas season.
Each day consists of a reading, followed by thoughts to discuss with your children and family and family activities to participate in together.  This book is filled with wonderful readings and a variety of discussion questions and activities that can enhance your family time this Christmas season.  I have read some discussions about some of the readings in this book and the author's interpretations of the reading that some may not agree with.  However, I see this as ideas to add to traditions that I already do with my children and some of the days I may use completely and others I may pick and choose from based on my beliefs, the ages of my children and what fits in best with my family and Christmas celebrating. 


*Thanks to the Tyndale Blog Network for the complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.*

Monday, November 24, 2014

Adorable creations!

First of all, this book is absolutely adorable!!!  "Gramma Nancy's Animal Hats (and booties too!)" is filled with adorable hats and booties that can be knitted for babies and toddlers.  The hats are divided by type of animal and each one is just so cute!  The directions are specific and easy to follow and the pictures are wonderful, I could page through this book so many times!  This book is a must-have for anyone whom enjoys knitting and creating little treasures that children and parents both will love.  I highly recommend this as a gift for that crafty person on your list (including you!).




For more information on this book visit here!


To read more about the author, go here!




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




*

International Suspense at it’s best! {Kindle Fire Giveaway!}


NLB Horton The Brothers' Keepers
Don't miss NLB Horton's The Brothers' Keepersinternational suspense at its best. While cataloguing looted antiquities in Brussels, archaeologist Grace Madison discovers her daughter has vanished in France, and her son's bride has been attacked in Switzerland. After the Madison family unearths a relic whose taproot pierces the Ancient Near East, they realize before they can save themselves, they must rescue an old friend . . . if he'll let them.

Learn more about book one in the series, When Camels Fly, and enter to win a Kindle Fire.
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One grand prize winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire
  • When Camels Fly and The Brothers' Keepers by NLB Horton
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on December 7th. Winner will be announced December 8th on NLB's blog.

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{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

About the book:

The Brothers' Keepers
| RidgeRoute Press (November 2015)

A friend's deception. A family's dilemma.

While cataloging looted antiquities in Brussels, archaeologist Grace Madison learns that her daughter has disappeared in France, and daughter-in-law has been attacked in Switzerland. But before the Madisons can save themselves, they must rescue an old friend---if he'll let them. Navigating a deadly, four-thousand-year-old artifact trail that crosses three continents, they jeopardize hearts and lives against a foe as old as time---as time runs out.

Because choosing what's right is all that's left.

Purchase a copy:  http://ow.ly/EfxWh  

About the author: After an award-winning detour through journalism and marketing and a graduate degree from Dallas Theological Seminary, NLB Horton returned to writing fiction. She has surveyed Israeli and Jordanian archaeological digs accompanied (twice!) by heavy artillery rounds from Syria and machine gun fire from Lebanon. Calmly tossed a tarantula from her skiff into the Amazon after training with an Incan shaman. Driven uneventfully through Rome. And consumed gallons of afternoon tea across five continents. Her first novel, When Camels Fly, was released in May, 2014.The Brothers' Keepers her second in the Parched series, will be released November 17, 2014. The third in the series will release in the fall of 2015.

Find NLB online: website, Facebook

My Review:
This is a great book for those whom enjoy suspense and also historical details as this book has both and NLB Horton has an incredible talent for bringing history to life.  I wish I had read the first book in this series first, but I still enjoyed the book and am looking forward to reading it in the near future.  I found it so hard to stop reading as I wanted to find out what would happen next as the characters and the setting came so alive to me and I found myself completely lost in the story.  There are so many powerful moments in this book and it is an awesome reminder that God is in control. 

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.*

Saturday, November 22, 2014

Book Review - "Trading Secrets:"

"Trading Secrets" is another excellent Amish teen fiction novel by Melody Carlson that is enjoyable for teens and adults alike.
This was such a fun read that began years ago with a little misunderstanding when students were assigned pen pals.  Micah was mistaken to be a boy and she never corrected the assumption, but now it is time to meet her pen pal face to face.  As this journey sets off Micah and Zach are faced with the truth and neither are prepared for how this meeting will end.
This is quick read that I completely enjoyed just as her other Amish teen fiction novels.  Melody does a great job with bringing the Amish culture to life, specifically how it is for teenagers, and mixing the  Amish way of life with the English. 


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

Book Review - "The Christmas Cat"

Melody Carlson's latest Christmas novella, "The Christmas Cat," is a sweet read that will get you in the spirit of giving and remind you of the important things in life.
Garrison has been out of the country for almost a decade and has felt lost since returning to the states.  Now he feels even more lost when his grandmother passes away, his only relative.  Now he more than just without a job, he without family and must deal with taking care of his grandmother's final wishes, even with how odd they are. As Garrison tries to fulfill his grandmother's wishes, he finds himself meeting people whom he probably would have never met otherwise and he finds himself thinking more about his dreams and also his future.
I really enjoyed this book, it was short, sweet story that I will probably be rereading each year at Christmas time.  I loved the interactions between Garrison and the other characters such as Cara, Elliott,
and Vincent and the roles each of them played with Garrison finding himself and finding peace and home. Melody does a fabulous job with creating the scene as I felt as if I was right there with Garrison inspecting the homes and meeting the families as well as when he was fixing up his grandmother's home.  I highly recommend this book to be put on your to read pile at some point in the next month.


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

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

"Discover God's Heart"

Book Description from the publisher:


A new read-through-the-Bible Bible divided in manageable portions and featuring deep and relevant devotionals that bring readers close to the heart of God.

As they journey through the Bible from cover to cover, readers will appreciate how the NIV Discover God's Heart Devotional Bible will help them through tough spots such as Numbers and Leviticus while giving them deeper understanding of the Scriptures and connecting them with the heart of its Author. Readers will experience rich insights into the original contexts of Scripture, and God's heart will be unveiled in new ways.

This Bible includes 365 engaging devotions to serve as your tour guide, walking you through Genesis to Revelation in manageable portions. Each devotion includes a summary section of the Scripture passage, an application section that reveals God's good heart, and an insight section that ties each passage into the rest of God's great story.

As you experience God's Word through this devotional Bible, you'll see his divine fingerprints from beginning to end, even in the most unexpected places. And you'll encounter a deeper, fuller picture of the Jesus you thought you knew.

Whether you are starting out on your first steps or a seasoned traveler, let the NIV Discover God's Heart Devotional Bible open your eyes to God's good heart. Join him in his story. And experience a more intimate walk with him.


My Review:
I really like the layout of this devotional Bible as it is reader friendly.  There are several options for what reading plan you would like to follow at the time, ranging from short-term to long-term.  Each devotional is right with the Biblical passage that it corresponds to which I love instead of having to flip through several pages and searching for either the reading or the passage.  I would highly recommend this for someone whom is hoping to learn more about God at a deeper level or for a new Christian as this really shares God's love, God's character and background information on the authors of the various books of the Bible and details helping the reader to gain a clearer understanding of Biblical passages. 


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

Sunday, November 16, 2014

Happy Handmade Home

 
"A Beautiful Mess Happy Handmade Home: painting, crafting, and decorating a cheerful, more inspiring space," by Elsie Larson and Emma Chapman, is a fantastic book for anyone whom is looking for ideas for decorating and do it yourself projects in the home.
Elsie and Emma created A Beautiful Mess blog on which they share so many things and some of these are inside this book, a convenient collection of inspiring ideas and pictures to help you decide how to make your house into a space that is perfect for you.
This book is divided by room and I love this as it makes the book so user-friendly. I was surprised by the variety of ideas in here and I love flipping through the pages looking at all of the beautiful pictures.  I cannot wait to try so many of these projects!  These two sisters are truly inspiring and I loved being able to spend some time inside their worlds.


More info about this book!


To read about the authors go here!




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





Saturday, November 15, 2014

Book Review - "Christmas at Rose Hill Farm"

I featured this book on my blog a few months ago and it is officially on tour with Revell right now and perfect timing as we have had our first snow and I am getting completely into the Christmas season and ready for winter!
I love all things Christmas, and I was so excited to receive a Christmas book written by one of my favorite Amish fiction writers, Suzanne Woods Fisher!  "Christmas at Rose Hill Farm" is a sweet love story that has the Christmas season as a backdrop and the snowy landscape and the frigid weather set the scene nicely and drew me into the story. It was nice to revisit a few characters from previous novels; I love when authors do that as it's like a nice family reunion when you can get caught up on the lives of characters whom you have enjoyed spending time with. Bess was told that she was in the midst of a love triangle before and now she is once again as her wedding is approaching and the one whom her heart still loves, but she is not marrying, returns home. I really enjoyed spending this time with Bess, Billy and Amos and I will be rereading this once again nearer to Christmas I'm sure!
*Thanks to the Revell Reads Program for the complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.*

Book Review - "Surprised by Love"

"Surprised by Love" is book #3 in Julie Lessman's The Heart of San Francisco series and I really enjoyed getting back into this series.
I loved returning to the McClare family and getting involved with all these relationships and spending time with them once again.  Megan McClare has returned home and she has changed during her time away; yet she is not sure if she is ready to face everyone from her past.  Bram, Devin and Megan are all characters whom I loved and I loved the interactions between them and seeing their relationships change and develop.  Julie has done an excellent job once again with brining this time period and the characters to life.  I have really enjoyed this series and I think this book has been my favorite because Megan was easy for me to relate to.  I highly recommend this series for historical fiction fans. 


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

Friday, November 14, 2014

"Where Treetops Glisten"

About the book: 

The crunch of newly fallen snow, the weight of wartime
Siblings forging new paths and finding love in three stories, filled with the wonder of Christmas
Turn back the clock to a different time, listen to Bing Crosby sing of sleigh bells in the snow, as the realities of America's involvement in the Second World War change the lives of the Turner family in Lafayette, Indiana.
In Cara Putman's White Christmas, Abigail Turner is holding down the Home Front as a college student and a part-time employee at a one-of-a-kind candy shop. Loss of a beau to the war has Abigail skittish about romantic entanglements---until a hard-working young man with a serious problem needs her help.
Abigail's brother Pete is a fighter pilot hero returned from the European Theater in Sarah Sundin's I'll Be Home for Christmas, trying to recapture the hope and peace his time at war has eroded. But when he encounters a precocious little girl in need of Pete's friendship, can he convince her widowed mother that he's no longer the bully she once knew?
In Tricia Goyer's Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Meredith Turner, "Merry" to those who know her best, is using her skills as a combat nurse on the frontline in the Netherlands. Halfway around the world from home, Merry never expects to face her deepest betrayal head on, but that's precisely what God has in mind to redeem her broken heart.
The Turner family believes in God's providence during such a tumultuous time. Can they absorb the miracle of Christ's birth and His plan for a future?

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/BwVP9

About the authors: 



TRICIA GOYER is a prolific author of nearly forty books, including Chasing Mona Lisa, and a speaker and blogger. 

CARA PUTMAN is the author of twenty books including Shadowed by Grace. She is the winner of the 2008 Carol Award for historical fiction. 

SARAH SUNDIN is the critically-acclaimed author of the Wings of the Nightingale series, the Wings of Glory series, and the forthcoming Waves of Freedom novels.


My Review:
I really enjoyed the novella collection, "Where Treetops Glisten!"  This is a beautiful Christmas collection by three fabulous authors that each share a story involving the Turner family, a kind-hearted, fun family that is trying to survive World War II and yet also keep the magic and love of the Christmas season alive.  I love how each of the three novellas focus on a different member of the Turner family and the stories span a three year time span.  This time period is brought to life and I love how various aspects of life during the war are highlighted.  In the very first story I really enjoyed the small town feel with the candy and soda shop which Abigail works at and the yummy descriptions of making the drinks and treats like candy canes.  This is the perfect book for each historical fiction fan as it will transport you to a different time period and ignite the Christmas spirit in each reader. 

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

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

Saturday, November 8, 2014

Book Review - "A Mom's Prayers for Her Son"

"A Mom's Prayers for Her Son: praying for every part of his life," by Rob & Joanna Teigen, is a must-read for every mother whom has a son of any age. 
This book is divided into many short chapters, making this a perfect book to pick up and read just a  chapter or two at a time and allow yourself time to reflect on what is being shared.  There are stories shared throughout as well as verses from the Bible and prayers to help guide mothers in praying for their sons in specific areas. 
The book is straight-forward and easy to get into.  I found this book to be extremely inspiring and one that I will read many times.  I have enjoyed reading a little bit each night before going to sleep and praying for my own little boy. 


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

Quilts of Love | QUILTED BY CHRISTMAS – Kindle Giveaway & “Merry Quilted” Facebook Party!


Quilts of Love Quilted by Christmas Jodie Bailey
Don’t miss the newest Quilts of Love book, Quilted by Christmas by Jodie Bailey. October’s QOL release is a warm Christmas tale of God's steadfast love.

Enter to win a Kindle HDX, and RSVP for the “Merry Quilted” Quilts of Love Facebook party on December 9th.
qol-quiltedbychristmas-400
One winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire
  • Two copies of Quilted by Christmas by Jodie Bailey (One for you and one to give away as a gift!)
  • Hidden in the Stars by Robin Caroll
  • Swept Away by Laura V. Hilton and Cindy Loven
Enter today by clicking the button below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 16th. Winner will be announced November 17th at the Quilts of Love blog.

Wait! There's more! RSVP for the "Merry Quilted" Quilts of Love Christmas Book Chat Party on December 9th and connect with some of the Quilts of Love authors. Jodie Bailey, Laura V. Hilton, Cindy Loven, Cathy Elliott, and Gina Welborn will be hosting a "merry" evening of book chat, Christmas traditions, prizes, and more!

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{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on December 9th!


Book Info
About Quilts of Love: Quilts tell stories of love and loss, hope and faith, tradition and new beginnings. The Quilts of Love series focuses on the women who quilted all of these things into their family histories. A new book releases each month and features contemporary and historical romances as well as women's fiction and the occasional light mystery. You will be drawn into the endearing characters of this series and be touched by their stories.

About the book: 

A grandmother's last wish is to communicate God's love through an Irish chain quilt.
Taryn McKenna believes she's easy to forget. Abandoned by her parents and left behind when her high school sweetheart joined the army, she vows to never love again and throws herself into her love for the outdoors and the pursuit of a college degree---something no one else in her family has ever accomplished. Her goal, as a young teacher in the hills of North Carolina, is to leave a legacy in the lives of the middle-schoolers she teaches.
When Taryn's grandmother Jemma, the only other person who ever held her close, has a heart attack that reveals a fatal medical condition, Taryn is corralled into helping Grandma work on a final project---an Irish chain quilt that tells the story of her history and the love Jemma knows is out there for Taryn. As the pieces of the quilt come together, Taryn begins to see her value. Can she learn to believe that God will never leave her behind even though others have?
Learn more about this book and the series at the Quilts of Love website.

About the Author: 

Jodie Bailey is Tarheel born and bred. After 15 years as a military spouse, she settled with her family back in North Carolina. She is the author of the military suspense novel Freefall and is a contributor to a devotional for military families, Fighting Fear: Winning the War at Home. While not working on her next novel, she teaches middle-schoolers to love writing as much as she does.

Connect with Jodie: website, Facebook, Twitter





My Review:
I really enjoyed this latest addition to the Quilts of Love series as it is a wonderful story as well as a beautiful family history involving a quilt tied in AND it is a Christmas story!  "Quilted by Christmas" is a well-written story about Taryn and the hurt and secret she has been holding onto for so many years.  Taryn's relationship with Jemma is so strong and the bond between them is what they both need and the support and unconditional love that Taryn needs.  The depth of the characters and their relationships is so well-written and presented making the characters come to life.  I enjoyed learning about the Irish tradition with the quilt as well.  This book will get you right into the Christmas spirit as you will be transported to Jemma''s home and helping she and Taryn get the trees up and the house decorated. 

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

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

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

Book Review - "Motherless"


Book Description from the publisher:


Guilt may be the most dangerous motive of all.


On a rainy night seventeen years after his wife's presumed suicide, Garrett Becker sees her walking down the street. A car accident snatches him away from this world before he can reach her.


Marina has spent her whole life mothering her brother, who suffers from an anxiety disorder. After their father's accident, they face losing their home-the only place Dylan's fears are held at bay.


Crushing debt is just one of their father's secrets. Old keepsakes lead Dylan to believe their mother is alive and lives nearby. Sara Rochester is a successful chocolatier who doesn't dwell on her past and never expected the resurrection of its ghosts. But after Dylan confronts her, Sara consents to parent the only way she knows how: with money, chocolate, and a gross deficit of experience.


Sara's hesitant presence divides Marina and Dylan. Marina doesn't believe that Sara is their mother. The woman's paper-thin lies suggest she might even be responsible for their mother's death. When Marina's suspicions spark an investigation, no one is prepared for the tragic truth or the powerful redemption that Marina's actions expose.


Narrated by a storyteller with more to lose than any other character, Motherless is a richly layered mystery about the power of perception-and deception-among people seeking forgiveness for irreversible sins.


About the Author


Erin Healy is the bestselling coauthor of Burn and Kiss (with Ted Dekker) and an award-winning editor for many bestselling authors. She is a member of ACFW and Academy of Christian Editors. Her novels include such thrilling stories as Never Let You Go, The Baker's Wife, Stranger Things, and Motherless. She and her family live in Colorado.




My Review:


"Motherless" is Erin Healy's latest novel and this is one not to miss out on if you are a fan of Erin's writing. This is a book that will completely captivate you from the beginning to the very end.  Erin dives right into the story and I felt as if I were a part of it.  Life can change in an instant as the Becker family knows and tragedy is a part of life.  However, situations can be perceived differently by different individuals and life as you know it is partly based on how it is perceived.  As the Becker children suffer another tragic event in their life, the past is brought back to the forefront and a mystery begins to unravel.  This is a suspenseful journey that will keep you reading late into the night as it will be difficult to stop until you read the very end of the story.


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

Book Review - "At Bluebonnet Lake"

"At Bluebonnet Lake" is the first book in Amanda Cabot's Texas Crossroads series and it is a wonderful start to the series!  This is a contemporary romance series instead of the historical series that Amanda has been writing, but it is still written in the wonderful style as always and I enjoyed it so much.
Kate is on a month's vacation with her grandmother Sally to Texas to a resort where Sally has always wanted to return to.  This is not quite what they both were expecting as it is has changed since Sally had visited and it does not meet up to Kate's expectations.  Kate is deeply committed to her job in marketing and is on the path to making partner and she is still trying to balance her work while on vacation while also spending quality time with Sally.  Greg is also at the resort while trying to figure out what his next plan is going to be after selling his company and seeking for more meaning in life.  Together Greg and Kate find themselves becoming more involved in this small community and connecting with the people whom live there and both are finding meaning in their lives; however are they willing to make changes and follow their hearts?
I loved the setting of this book, the storyline and the characters.  Rainbow's End sounds like such a wonderful place and I love the family feel and close-knit community that this place is a part of.  Kate and Sally have a wonderful relationship and I loved their interactions as well as those with Roy and Greg.  The Easter celebration was such a wonderful event for the entire community and a pivotal moment for Kate and Greg.  I am looking forward to the next book in the series and revisiting this town and the people whom all live there.  I loved the inclusion of the first chapter of the second book and am looking forward to learning more about Carmen's family and seeing how all of the characters' lives are changing. 


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

"Moosewood Cookbook"

Mollie Katzen's "Moosewood Cookbook" is a collection of recipes and notes of the food that was served at the restaurant in Ithaca, NY.  This hardcover cookbook is the 40th Anniversary Edition of the book and this is filled with recipes that have been enjoyed for so many years and will continue to be enjoyed for years to come. 
There is a wide variety of recipes included in this book and I am looking forward to trying many of them.  What I love the most about this book however is the notes that are included with each recipe.  This also has such a homemade and homey feel to the book though as well with the style of the book and layout of the recipes and font.


For more information about this book, go here!


For more information about the author, go here!


* "I received this book from Blogging for Books *

Monday, November 3, 2014

Book Review - "A Robertson Family Christmas"

First of all I have to say, I love Christmas books and this one is going to be a must-read on my list every Christmas!  "A Robertson Family Christmas" allows the reader to join this beloved family at such a magical and special time of the year.   I loved this story, the entire concept of the story was well-developed and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Hunter is hurting, like so many kids today.  Hunter is living with his mom following his parents' divorce and he is missing his dad and brother and do "manly" things.  Hunter has one wish for Christmas, and his Christmas is not going as planned when he wins a chance to spend time with the Robertson family.  Hunter is so real and honest that he could be someone that you have contact with every day.  This story is so inspiring and such a feel-good Christmas story.  Fans of Duck Dynasty will love this book and even if you are not a fan, it is one that you will not want to miss out on!


To get in the spirit of Christmas, I have a copy of this book to give away to a reader.  Share in the comment section on this post a Christmas tradition that is a favorite of yours and you will be entered for a chance to win this book! I will choose a winner on November 11th. 


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

The latest from Dan Walsh!

"When Night Comes" is Dan Walsh's most recent novel and while it is not his typical genre that we have all come to love and anticipate, it is a book that you do not want to miss out on!
This book was so appealing to me, including the cover which I love.  The story is set in a small town, a small town that has many secrets/things going on under wraps and the peace and quiet that is sought and expected may just be lacking as Jack quickly realizes.  There is suspense, tension, secrets, and yet also some romance mixed in making this a read that will keep you turning the pages.  However, this is also a clean read which I appreciate as well and overall this is a book that I highly recommend to romantic suspense fans and I am looking forward to what Dan writes next. 


*I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.*

Sunday, November 2, 2014

“Too Loved to be Lost” Kindle HDX Giveaway and Facebook Party with Debora Coty!


Too Loved to be Lost Debora Coty
In our world a woman’s acceptance so often seems contingent on her looks, behavior, or talents. This can lead to fearing loss of acceptance, trying to outperform one another, and a warped view God as a ruthless, judgmental, stern entity just waiting for us to crash and burn. Debora M. Coty's new book, Too Loved to Be Lost: Discovering God’s Intentional, Unconditional, Without-Limits Loveoffers women simple, practical steps for finding healing, security, and revitalization of spirit, body, and faith.

Celebrate being "Too Loved" by entering Debora Coty's HDX giveaway and RSVPing to her Facebook party on November 6th.
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  One winner will receive:
  • A Kindle HDX
  • Too Loved to Be Lost by Debora Coty
Enter today by clicking the button below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 6th. Winner will be announced at the Too Loved to Be Lost Facebook author event on 11/6. Join author Debora Coty for a humorous and encouraging evening centered around God's unconditional love. Debora will be hosting a fun chat, giving away prizes, answering your questions, offering an exclusive peek at her next book, and much more!

So grab your copy of Too Loved to be Lost and join Debora and friends on the evening of November 6th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)
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Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP todayTell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 6th!


About the book: In Too Loved to Be Lost (Barbour Books, October 2014), you'll find simple, practical steps for healing, refreshment, and revitalization of spirit, body, and faith. Whether you're struggling with issues related to trust, depression, patience, relationships, hurts, or hopes. . .this humor-filled volume will deliver a much-needed smile and equip you with simple-to-implement tips for attaining the kind of guidance and belonging you crave---the kind that can only be found in the unconditional love of Papa God.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/CSJKG

About the author: Debora M. Coty is a popular speaker, columnist, lifelong Bible student, internationally published freelance writer, and award-winning author of numerous books, including Too Blessed to Be Stressed, and More Beauty, Less Beast. She's also an orthopedic occupational therapist, writing instructor, and tennis addict. Mother of two grown children, Debora lives and loves in central Florida with her husband, Chuck, and desperately wicked pooch, Fenway.

Find Debora online: website, Facebook, Twitter

My Review:
"Too Loved to be Lost" by Debora M. Coty is a must-read for any woman out there who may feel lost, lonely, over-stressed and struggling.  Debora has an upbeat fun way of presenting her thoughts and encouraging others.  I found her style to be refreshing and the layout of the book to be perfect as it is cute and bright, seriously just looking at this book puts a smile on my face.  It is also the perfect size to stick in your purse and take with you to read when you have a few spare moments.  At the end of the chapters there are reflection questions that really drew me into the book and had me thinking about the words long after I read them. 

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

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

Saturday, November 1, 2014

BECOMING BEA By @LeslieJeanGould | Kindle Giveaway and Facebook Party!


Becoming Bea
Leslie Gould is back with the latest book, Becoming Bea, in her Shakespeare-inspired series, The Courtships of Lancaster County. Don't miss the other books in the series, Courting Cate (retelling of The Taming of the Shrew), Adoring Addie (inspired by Romeo and Juliet), and Minding Molly (inspired by A Midsummer Night’s Dream).

Leslie is celebrating the series with a Kindle giveaway and a Facebook party on November 11th.
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One grand prize winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire
  • One copy each of the entire The Courtships of Lancaster County series: Courting CateAdoring Addie, Minding Molly, and Becoming Bea.
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on 11/11. Winner will be announced at Leslie's 11/11 Becoming Bea Facebook author chat party. RSVP for a chance to connect with Leslie and Amish fiction fans, as well as for a chance to win some great prizes!
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{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK, TWITTER or PINTEREST and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 11th!

About the book: Can Bea and Ben Turn Rivalry Into Romance?

Beatrice Zook knows God wants her to learn patience toward others. When assisting a family overwhelmed by triplets proves surprisingly successful, her confidence in dealing with others, both young and old, grows.

One person she'll never be able to find peace with though is Ben Rupp. They've known each other forever, and Ben understands precisely how to antagonize her. What neither she nor Ben will admit is that beneath all their bickering, attraction awaits. When friends decide to try and bring the couple together, will the pair be able to find true love? Or will they damage their relationship beyond repair?

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/Dcnfl
About the author: Leslie Gould is the coauthor, with Mindy Starns Clark, of the #1 CBA bestseller The Amish Midwife, a 2012 Christy Award winner; ECPA bestseller Courting Cate, first in the Courtships of Lancaster County series; and Beyond the Blue, winner of the Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice for Best Inspirational Novel, 2006. She holds an MFA in creative writing from Portland State University and has taught fiction writing at Multnomah University as an adjunct professor. She and her familyl live in Portland, Oregon.
Find Leslie online: website, Facebook, Twitter





My Review:
"Becoming Bea" is a fun Amish read with a Shakespearean twist to it! If this is the first book of the series that you are picking up, I highly recommend you first start with the beginning of the series as characters are revisited in each book.  Bea is not the "typical" Amish woman that you would read about in "typical" Amish fiction books; Bea is not looking to marry, and raise a houseful of kids, she is more comfortable with books than people.  I loved Bea's love of books of course and I found her to be a fun main character of the book and I liked seeing her grow and mature through the novel as at times I was grimacing during her interactions with Ben as it seems that things were going further downhill.  However, this was an entertaining book with a great message in it.  I highly recommend this series for Amish fans and those who may not be as well as this series has an additional twist to it. 

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

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