Tuesday, March 31, 2015

"Deception on Sable Hill"

Book Description from the publisher:


The World's Fair is nearing its end, but the danger in Chicago lingers.

It's mid-September of 1893 and Eloisa Carstairs is the reigning beauty of Gilded Age Chicago society. To outsiders she appears to have it all. But Eloisa is living with a dark secret. Several months ago, she endured a horrible assault at the hands of Douglass Sloane, heir to one of Chicago's wealthiest families. Fearing the loss of her reputation, Eloisa confided in only one friend. That is, until she meets Detective Sean Ryan at a high-society ball.

Sean is on the outskirts of the wealthy Chicago lifestyle. Born into a poor Irish family, becoming a policeman was his best opportunity to ensure his future security. Despite society's restrictions, he is enamored with Eloisa Carstairs. Sean seethes inside at what he knows happened to her, and he will do anything to keep her safe-even if he can never earn her affections. .

Eloisa longs to feel normal again in the midst of the danger surrounding the Chicago World's Fair, but a killer is on the loose. In the last month, three debutants have been accosted in the city by an assailant wielding a stiletto. As the danger in the city increases, and as Eloisa's and Sean's romance blossoms, they both realize they want to be seen as more than how the world views them. But will they catch the killer before all their hopes come tumbling down?

About the Author

Shelley Gray is the author of The Heart of a Hero series. Her Amish novel (written as Shelley Shepard Gray), The Protector, recently made the New York Times best seller list. A native of Texas, she earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Colorado and taught school for ten years. She and her husband have two children and live in Southern Ohio. Visit her website at Facebook: ShelleyShepardGray Twitter: @ShelleySGray


My Review:
"Deception on Sable Hill" is an excellent addition to this series; I liked book #1 and I liked this one even more!  Eloisa and Sean have such different backgrounds and yet there is such a bond that is formed between them.  This is a page-turner as the society slasher strikes again and again and Eloisa and Sean try to figure this out as well as protect themselves.  I found the story so easy to read as I was immediately drawn into the story and held captive until the end.


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

Monday, March 30, 2015

"Sand in My Sandwich"

Book Description from the publisher:


You know that thing when you're in Walmart at noon before you discover you haven't brushed your teeth? Sarah Parshall Perry gets that. She also gets weird things showing up in her bed, her daughter asking for war paint, and her son crawling into a giant blue sock on Christmas morning. Mainly, she gets that conflicted feeling of finding her kids hanging out in the dogs' cages and happily realizing they have stopped getting into trouble for a minute.

According to Perry, "The hardest stuff is the quickest way to God," and readers get to watch the systematic destruction of her carefully planned life, laughing at her missteps, aching at her tragedies, and recognizing themselves along the way. A mother of three children, two of whom are on the autism spectrum, she has experienced plenty of ups and downs, but from the chaos of her "ordinary" life she pulls the universal truths of motherhood, addressing them with humor, poignancy, and a naked honesty that will make the reader think, That sounds a lot like my crazy life. Perry helps mothers realize they aren't alone, even if they've fallen off the straight and narrow of their intended path and are instead lying in the ditch next to it. Life's a mess. But as Perry reminds us, it's all for a purpose.

Perfect for mothers, this book will encourage, inspire, and enlighten.
  
Sarah Parshall Perry (JD, University of Virginia School of Law) is a wife and mother of three young children. She is the coauthor of When the Fairy Dust Settles (with her mother, Janet Parshall) and the author of numerous magazine articles, award-winning short stories, and poetry. Sarah has served in youth ministry for over ten years and is currently writing for www.ChosenFamilies.org where she encourages other families living with disabilities. She lives in Baltimore, Maryland, where she spends most of her days fighting for time in front of the computer. Learn more at www.sarahparshallperry.com.


My Review:
I completely enjoyed this book!  Sarah is someone whom I could relate to and I loved her style of writing as I felt as if she was speaking right to me and sharing her heart as she was so open and honest and the words just flowed so naturally.  "Sand in My Sandwich" is one of the best parenting books I have read recently and one that I will pick up and read through at times when I am feeling alone and overwhelmed in life and need a little encouragement.  However, as overwhelming each day can be, there are so many moments that are so rewarding and really and truly being a mother is so important and so special.  I highly recommend this book for mothers. 


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

Monday, March 23, 2015

Five-Book Giveaway from Shelley Shepard Gray


Promise Palm Grove Shelley Shepard Gray
Don't miss Shelley Shepard Gray's new series, Amish Brides of Pinecraft, and the first book in the series, The Promise of Palm Grove! Romantic Times said, "Vibrant descriptions and details bring the plot to life in this heartwarming tale of new beginnings and renewal." Does Leona follow the path set out before her? Or take a chance with only the promise of what could be to guide her?

Enter to win a copy of The Promise of Palm Grove—five winners will be chosen! The winners will be announced March 30 on Shelley's blog!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
 
Book info
About the book:

The Promise of Palm Grove (Avon Inspire, January 2015)

Leona must decide: Does she follow the path set out before her? Or take a chance with only the promise of what could be to guide her?

A young Amish woman finds herself torn between the man she's pledged to wed and the man her heart desires in this heartwarming story of chance, duty, and choice in the face of love---the first volume in the beloved New York Times bestselling author's new Amish Brides of Pinecraft series.

Amish bride-to-be Leona is thrilled to be in Florida, on a mini-vacation in the pretty town of Pinecraft. Her girlfriends think she's happy because she's away from the stress of wedding planning. They have no idea that Leona's real joy is in being away from her fiancé.

Edmund is a good man, and will make a decent husband . . . just not for Leona. The more time she spends with him and his overbearing ways, the less she wants to be his wife. Her cousins are sure Edmund is the right man for her---and their certainty makes Leona begin to doubt herself. But when a chance encounter with a wayward cat brings her face-to-face with a handsome, fun-loving Amish man named Zachary Kauffman, Leona's faced with two vastly different futures.
Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1aQJuw2 

About the author:

Shelley Shepard Gray
is a two-time New York Times bestseller, a two-time USA Today bestseller, a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers prestigious Carol Award, and a two-time Holt Medallion winner. She lives in Southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town's bike trail.

Find Shelley online: website




My Review:
Shelley's first book in her new series is a must-read for fans of Amish fiction. I really enjoyed this book as the storyline was fun and different, the setting was a nice vacation from the current cold weather and the characters were likable.  Leona is faced with a choice, a major choice as it will determine what her life will be like "til death do us part" and I loved the interactions between her and her friends and also the two guys whom she is torn between.  I felt the story moved along at a nice pace and I could believe I was already at the end when I had finished the book as it was so hard to stop reading once I started.  I am looking forward to  book 2!

To read other reviews included on this 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.*


Thursday, March 19, 2015

Baseball Season is on it's way!

Gear up for baseball season with George F. Will's book, "A Nice Little Place on the North Side: a history of triumph, mostly defeat, and incurable hope at Wrigley Field."  This is a must-read for each and every Chicago Cubs fan and really a fan of baseball in general! 
George begins with discussing his relationship with the Cubs, his love for a team that does not have many wins and is generally annoying.  However, he points out the things that make it impossible to not love the Cubs and why has continued to be a fan.  George shares the history of this team and includes fun, little tidbits and pictures throughout the book. 

For more information about the book, including where to buy it, go here!

To learn about the author, go here!

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




Kindle Giveaway, Blog Tour, and Author Chat Party with Colleen Coble


Heart's Disguise Colleen Coble
In the midst of end-of-war celebrations, Sarah discovers her betrothed was keeping a devastating secret in Colleen Coble's A Heart's Disguise. Will Sarah leave her dying father’s side for the only man she’s ever loved? And what plans are forming in the jealous heart of Ben Croftner?

Celebrate book one in Colleen's A Journey of the Heart series by entering to win a Kindle Fire and RSVPing to her May 5th author chat party!

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One grand prize winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire
  • A copy of A Heart's Disguise
  • A copy of A Heart's Obsession (blog tour coming in April)
  • A copy of The Inn at Ocean's Edge (blog tour coming in April)
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 7th. Winner will be announced May 8th on Colleen's website. Plus be sure to clear your calendar on the evening of May 5th because Colleen is hosting an author chat party on Facebook to celebrate her A Journey of the Heart series and the release of The Inn at Ocean's Edge! RSVP here!

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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 May 5th!

Book info
About the book:

A Heart's Disguise (Thomas Nelson, March 2015)

In the aftermath of the Civil War, a young woman searches for her lost love at the edge of the West.

The Civil War has destroyed Sarah Montgomery's marriage before it's even begun.

After Sarah receives word that her fiancé, Rand Campbell, has been killed fighting for the Union, her brothers and ailing father persuade her to pledge herself to Ben Croftner---despite her strong misgivings. But when Sarah finds out that Rand is in fact alive---and that Ben Croftner knew it---she indignantly breaks off the engagement and goes in search of Rand.

But Ben Croftner does not take rejection lightly---and a single woman with a sick father makes an easy target. When Sarah is abducted by her treacherous fiancé, Rand finally comes to her aid . . . only to reveal that he has been posted at Fort Laramie, Wyoming, and intends to take her there as his wife.

But could Sarah leave her dying father's side for the love of her life? And what plans are forming in the jealous heart of Ben Croftner?
Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1b01Z1h 

About the author:

Colleen Coble
has sold over 2 million novels worldwide. Seagrass Pier, the third installment in her acclaimed Hope Beach series, marks a new highpoint for emotion and complexity in Coble's addictive brand of romantic suspense.

Find Colleen online: website, Twitter, Facebook







My Review:
I am thrilled to be able to read Colleen's first book and I really enjoyed the first installment, "A Heart's Disguise."  I have mixed feelings as to the book being split into 6 separate short books as I finished book 1 so quickly and it leaves the reader hanging for a month until book 2 arrives.  Yet on the other hand, this allows me to really savor each part of the story instead of rushing right through the book if it was all together in one. I enjoy reading books around the Civil War time period and Colleen did a great job with setting the scene as the characters are dealing with the aftermath of the war, both emotionally and physically. Sarah has been forced to make several difficult decisions already in just this first part of the book and I feel that I know her so well already as she is a caretaker for her family, has been grieving the loss of her fiancée and she is such a selfless person as she is thinking of others before herself.  I am anticipating book 2 to find out what happens next in the book and for Sarah as she has had to face the possibility of losing her love all over again and also Ben, whom has proven that he cannot be trusted, is still in the area.


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


*Thanks to the Litfuse Publicity Group for including me on this blog tour and for the complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.*



Wednesday, March 18, 2015

New Book from Rachel Hauck | ‘How to Catch a Prince’ and Royal Giveaway


Catch Prince Rachel Hauck
An American heiress and a crown prince seem destined to be together. Will the devastation of war keep them apart forever? Find out in Rachel Hauck's new book, How to Catch a Prince. True love has a destiny all its own. With a little heavenly help, Prince Stephen and Corina embark on a journey of truth. But when the secrets are revealed, can they overcome, move forward, and find love again?

Enter to win a "royal" prize pack! 

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One grand prize winner will receive:
  • A royal-themed Brighton charm bracelet
  • 2 tickets to see the new Cinderella movie
  • The Royal Wedding series (Once Upon a Prince, Princess Ever After, and How to Catch a Prince)
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 23rd. Winner will be announced March 24th on Rachel's blog.

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{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

Book info
About the book:

How to Catch a Prince (Zondervan, February 2015)

She caught her prince once. Can she catch him again?

American heiress Corina Del Rey's life was devastated by war. Every thing she loved was lost. But after five years of grief, she's shed her grave clothes and started over in the sunshine along the Florida coast.

But some things are not so easily forgotten. When a secret from her past confronts her face to face, she realizes she must follow her heart. Even if it cost her everything.

Prince Stephen of Brighton Kingdom is a former Royal Air Command lieutenant turned star rugby player, trying to make sense of his life after the devastation of war.
When his brother, King Nathaniel, discovers Stephen's pre war secret, he must deal with an aspect of his life he longed to forget. But how can he do so without exposing the truth and breaching national security?

Yet, true love has a destiny all it's own. As the cathedral bells peal through Cathedral City, Corina and Stephen must chose to answer the call of love on their hearts.
Or let it be lost forever?
Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1BD8DVo

About the author:

Rachel Hauck
is an award-winning, best selling author of critically acclaimed novels such as The Wedding Dress, Love Starts with Elle, and Once Upon A Prince. She also penned the Songbird Novels with multi-platinum recording artist, Sara Evans. Booklist named their novel, Softly and Tenderly, one of 2011 Top Ten Inspirationals. She serves on the Executive Board for American Christian Fiction Writers and is a mentor and book therapist at My Book Therapy, and conference speaker. Rachel lives in central Florida with her husband and pets.

Find Rachel online: website, Facebook, Twitter


My Review:
I have really enjoyed Rachel's royal wedding series, how could I not - I love weddings in general, and her latest book, "How To Catch a Prince," is a great addition to the series!  Corina and Stephen are both great main characters as they are so human and therefore so easy to empathize with.  They have a huge secret and they discover that although they thought their life together was over, it really isn't.  However, Stephen is holding on to guilt and is struggling to come to terms with a part of his life.  Corina has been struggling with grief and has moved on; however things are resurfacing.  I really enjoyed spending time with these two characters and their families.  Rachel has a writing style that draws me completely into the story as the words flow nicely and she creates such vivid scenes and lovable characters.  I highly recommend this book and series to those whom enjoy sweet romantic reads.

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.*

Tuesday, March 17, 2015

a cookbook for parents and their little "cubs"

Book Description from the publisher:


It’s The Berenstain Bears' Country Cookbook! Bear lovers everywhere are sure to find favorite recipes for fun food in this new kid-friendly, cookbook—ranging from Bear favorites that use honey and berries to delicious main meals and breakfasts, and even Berenstain favorites like Jan Berenstain’s famous Green Lasagna.

Featuring breakfast, lunch, main meal, and dessert recipes as well as kid-friendly cooking tips such as food and measurement conversions, this is sure to become a go-to cookbook for delicious and fun recipes kids can cook with an adult.
My Review:
I love this book - everything about it!  I have been a huge fan of the Berenstain Bears since I was a little girl and I love sharing the books with my two children now.  When I saw that there was a Berenstain Bears cookbook, I knew I just HAD to have it!  Seriously, this book is a must-have for every fan of the Bear family!  This book is packed full of recipes, a nice variety of recipes too, and the steps are written out in a way that are easy to read and follow, making it perfect for a parent and child to use together.  I love the illustrations that are throughout the book, and also the gingham border on the pages.  This cookbook is put together nicely and one that will be looked through and used over and over again. 


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

About the Author

Mike Berenstain grew up watching his parents, Stan and Jan, working together to write and draw these lovable bears. Eventually he started drawing and writing about them too.

"How Many Times Do I Have To Tell You?"

Book info
About the book:

How Many Times Do I Have to Tell You? (Apologia Educational Ministries, September 2014)

You've probably said these things to your kids, but have you listened to what you're saying?

"I remember the day you were born."

"Turn down the music!"

"This is going to hurt me more than it's going to hurt you."

"Hold my hand."

Your heavenly Father wants to tell you many of these same things. Rachael Carman knows how noisy it can be when you're raising children---she has seven! But this lovely devotional book will help you to hear God's still, small voice amid the chaos of carpools, cut fingers, and carpet crawlers. You'll learn how to recognize God's instructions for you, even as you seek to follow His example as a parent.
Purchase a copy: http://amzn.to/1FcMvCl

About the author:

Rachael Carman
is an author and speaker for Apologia Educational Ministries. The wife of Davis and the mother of seven children, Rachael challenges parents to live by reckless, obedient faith. As a direct reflection of her heart's desire to encourage, inspire, and celebrate motherhood, Rachael also leads Real Refreshment Retreats, weekend events that energize and invigorate homeschooling mothers with meaningful worship and speakers plus practical encouragement for the homeschool journey.

Find Rachael online: website, Twitter, Facebook




My Review:
"How Many Times Do I Have To Tell You?" is a wonderful new devotional for mothers.  This is a well titled book also as that is a phrase that I have said and thought many, many times, not only with my own children but with children I work with as well.  Rachael covers a variety of subjects in these devotionals, all that are pertinent to being a mother.  I love the questions that are included with each one as they really made me think and reflect on what I do say, what my tone is and the message that I am sending to my children.  I found this devotional encouraging and a great reminder that I am not alone in the everyday and challenging moments of mothering. 

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.*

Monday, March 16, 2015

New from Max Lucado | ‘Miracle at the Higher Grounds Cafe’ and iPad Giveaway


Miracle Higher Grounds Cafe Max Lucado
In Max Lucado's new fiction release, Miracle at the Higher Grounds Cafe, he asks, If you could ask God anything, what would you ask—and how would he answer? When a catastrophe strikes and her ex comes calling, Chelsea begins to wonder if the whole universe is conspiring against her quest to make it on her own. After a shocking discovery opens her eyes to the unseen world around her, Chelsea finds the courage to ask, and heaven answers in a most unexpected way.

Join Max in celebrating the release of his new fiction book by entering his iPad giveaway and RSVPing to his Coffee with Max webcast!

higherground-400


One grand prize winner will receive:
  • An iPad Mini
  • A copy of Miracle at the Higher Grounds Cafe
Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 23rd. Winner will be announced March 24th on the Litfuse blog. Then tune in later on the 24th for his Coffee with Max webcast. RSVP here!

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{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}

Book info
About the book:

Miracle at the Higher Grounds Cafe (Thomas Nelson, February 2015)

What if you could ask God anything? What would you ask? And how would he answer?

Chelsea Chambers is on her own. After a public split from her NFL superstar husband, Chelsea takes a bold step out of the limelight and behind the counter of the Higher Grounds Café, an old-fashioned coffee shop in dire need of reinvention. But when her courage, expert planning, and out-of-this-world cupcakes fail to pay the bills, this newly single mom finds herself desperate for help. Better yet, a miracle.

Then a curious stranger lands at Chelsea's door, and with him, an even more curious string of events. Soon, customers are flocking to the Higher Grounds Café, and not just for the cupcakes and cappuccino. They've come for the internet connection to the divine. Now the café has become the go-to place for people in search of answers to life's biggest questions.

When a catastrophe strikes and her ex comes calling, Chelsea begins to wonder if the whole universe is conspiring against her quest to make it on her own. After a shocking discovery opens her eyes to the unseen world around her, Chelsea finds the courage to ask, and heaven answers in a most unexpected way.
Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1EaivpU

About the author:
More than 120 million readers have found comfort in the writings of Max Lucado. He ministers at the Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Texas, where he lives with his wife, Denalyn, and a sweet but misbehaving mutt, Andy.

Find Max online: website, Facebook, Twitter






My Review:
I really enjoyed Max's latest book, "Miracle at the Higher Grounds Café,"  The title was intriguing when I first saw it and I loved the cover.  Once I read the back cover blurb, I was excited to dive right in and read; I was not disappointed!  Chelsea is so easy to relate to throughout the book as each day we all have highs and lows and it is so easy to get discouraged and feel as if everyone and everything, including God, is against you.  As I read this book, I found myself empathizing with Chelsea and I found this story so inspiring and a great reminder on the power of prayer and found this to be very encouraging.  I was also immediately drawn into the story as Max began with describing the coffee shop and the history behind it and the scene was set in my mind and Chelsea on her fourth cup of coffee by 6am was a character I liked right away.  I highly encourage everyone to put this book on their must-read list, it is a quick and inspiring read. 

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.*



Sunday, March 15, 2015

Book Review - "You're Loved No Matter What"

As women, we tend to think that if we could only get our act together, life would be perfect. But you're not supposed to be perfect. You're supposed to be human. And humans are messy, flawed, glorious, and deeply loved.

It's time to lay down those unrealistic expectations that exhaust you.
It's time to embrace who you are--even the messy parts.
It's time to start living fully instead of just trying not to fail.

Let's do this. Together.


-----------------------------

How would your life be different if you truly believed you're loved just as you are? Bestselling author Holley Gerth shares how God wants to set our hearts free by revealing the lies we believe as well as the scandalous grace and acceptance offered to us instead. She helps us lay down our unrealistic expectations so we can embrace who God created us to be, pursue his purpose for our lives, and offer others the love we've been freely given.

"I often say it doesn't have to be perfect to be beautiful. Holley Gerth shows women that's just as true for our hearts as it is for every other area of our lives."--Myquillyn Smith, The Nester, author of The Nesting Place

"Holley Gerth shares a breathtaking promise. She's not asking you to try to be better but inviting you to receive what's already yours. That's a message that will not only heal your heart but set you free."--Suzanne Eller, international speaker and author of The Unburdened Heart

"If your heart feels entangled by the critical voices of perfectionism, sit down with this book full of encouraging gems of wisdom and let Holley's words guide you to a new beginning, to set your heart free to run in one direction: toward God's love for you."--Bonnie Gray, author of Finding Spiritual Whitespace


Holley Gerth is a bestselling writer, certified life coach, and speaker. She loves connecting with the hearts of women through her popular blog and books like You're Already Amazing, You're Made for a God-Sized Dream, You're Going to Be Okay, and more. She's also cofounder of the popular website (in)courage and a partner with DaySpring. Learn more at www.holleygerth.com.


My Review:
I am a huge fan of Holley Gerth's books and her latest, "You're Loved No Matter What," may just be my favorite.  Holley has such a way of writing that it is as if she is  speaking right to me and having a conversation with me, just a couple of girls sharing their hearts over mugs of coffee.  This book focuses on the pressure we feel to be perfect in all areas of our lives and the guilt that results when we fall short in various areas.  I love the layout of the book as it is very interactive with self-reflection questions, areas for taking notes in, and ways to apply this to my life. If you have not read any of Holley's books, do not hesitate to and dive right in. 

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

Saturday, March 7, 2015

Book Review - "Anna's Crossing"

Cover Art"This novel is a winner."--Publishers Weekly

Some endings are really beginnings . . .

On a hot day in 1737 in Rotterdam, Anna König reluctantly sets foot on the Charming Nancy, a merchant ship that will carry her and her fellow Amish believers across the Atlantic to start a new life. As the only one in her community who can speak English, she feels compelled to go. But Anna is determined to complete this journey and return home--assuming she survives. She's heard horrific tales of ocean crossings and worse ones of what lay ahead in the New World. But fearfulness is something Anna has never known.

Ship's carpenter Bairn resents the somber people--dubbed Peculiars by the deckhands--who fill the lower deck of the Charming Nancy. All Bairn wants to do is to put his lonely past behind him, but that irksome and lovely lass Anna and her people keep intruding on him.

Delays, storms, illness, and diminishing provisions test the mettle and patience of everyone on board. When Anna is caught in a life-threatening situation, Bairn makes a discovery that shakes his entire foundation. But has the revelation come too late?

Bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher invites you back to the beginning of Amish life in America with this fascinating glimpse into the first ocean crossing--and the lives of two intrepid people who braved it.

"I found Anna's Crossing to be everything I love in a novel, especially in a historical novel! Fast paced, character driven, filled with rich descriptions and enjoyable dialogue. It was a pleasure to read, and I am honored to have had the opportunity to endorse it."--Shelley Shepard Gray, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author

Suzanne Woods Fisher is the bestselling author of the Lancaster County Secrets series, the Stoney Ridge Seasons series, and The Inn at Eagle Hill series, as well as nonfiction books about the Amish, including Amish Peace. She is also the coauthor of an Amish children's series, The Adventures of Lily Lapp. Suzanne is a Carol Award winner for The Search, a Carol Award finalist for The Choice, and a Christy Award finalist for The Waiting. She is also a columnist for Christian Post and Cooking & Such magazines. She lives in California. Learn more at www.suzannewoodsfisher.com and follow Suzanne on Twitter @suzannewfisher




My Review:
I really enjoyed this latest novel from Suzanne Woods Fisher!  I always look forward to reading her new releases and "Anna's Crossing" did not disappoint!  Although this is a little different from many of her previous novels as they were set in present day and "Anna's Crossing" is not, it is still written in Suzanne's style that I love as I am always hooked by the story right away and it flows so easily that I become completely engrossed in the story and in the characters' lives.  The historical detail that is included in this book is so well done as the scene is depicted so vividly and  I could empathize with the characters as far as the conditions that they were dealing with and the hardships they were enduring.  Suzanne has done an excellent job with sharing a piece of Amish history and making it so real for the reader. 



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




Wednesday, March 4, 2015

Book Review - "Where Trust Lies"

"Where Trust Lies" is book 2 in Janette Oke and Laurel Oke Logan's Return to the Canadian West series and a must-read for Oke fans. 
This book continues Beth's story as she returns home from a year of teaching out west and she realizes that it will take time to readjust to her old life and fitting in as her life has been so different.  However, Beth is not given the chance to relax at home and do just that as her mother announces a family vacation on a steamboat.  As Beth spends time with her family, her thoughts stray back to her teaching life and a certain man whom holds her heart. Beth is forced to make some decisions and I am looking forward to book 3 to see how things turn out and what choices Beth makes. 
This book immediately draws the reader into Beth's world, really both of her worlds.  It is so easy to empathize with her because so often we are torn between two worlds and having to make choices for what we feel is best for us and our families.  Janette Oke was one of the first Christian fiction readers I began reading as a teenager and I love that she and her daughter are continuing to write. 


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

Tuesday, March 3, 2015

"Salad Love"

Salad Love"Salad Love" is an incredible book!  David Bez wanted to eat healthier lunches and therefore started preparing salads at his desk at work during his lunch hour.  Of course, this caught the interest of co-workers and David thought it would of others as well leading to him sharing his daily lunch salads on his blog and now in this hardcover book.  David states that this is not a cookbook, but a collection of salads that he has created and enjoyed.  Each salad is pictured along with an ingredient list.  What I love most about this book is the pages that David devotes to each section of the salad.  For example, when you hear salad you might think that the main ingredient is greens; however there are so many more options that can be used for the base giving you so much more variety in your diet.  The salads are organized in this book by season as David would shop each Monday for the week and would choose fresh produce that was available and in season.  There are so many delicious and some unusual combinations that I would not have thought of and I am looking forward to trying these.  The book overall has such a great layout and is so visually appealing that I could spend hours just paging through it and planning meals. 




For more information about this book, go here




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

Book Review - "God Made You Special"


Book Description from the publisher:


“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”

Matthew 5:8

In this newest 8x8 softcover title in the Berenstain Bears Living Lights collection, the Bruins join the Bear family for a cookout and bring their cousin Tommy along. It isn’t long before the cubs start up a game of baseball and Sister soon notices that Tommy doesn’t play like the rest of the group. When Sister asks about Tommy, Mama takes the opportunity to talk to Sister about how God makes each of us unique in our own way. And that we all have special gifts and talents to share with the folks around us.

About the Author

Mike Berenstain grew up watching his parents, Stan and Jan, working together to write and draw these lovable bears. Eventually he started drawing and writing about them too.


My Review:
I grew up with the Berenstain Bears and now I share the books with my two children and I am so thrilled that Mike is continuing with this series that his parents started and he grew up with too.  "God Made You Special" is such a sweet story that really highlights that God loves each of us and how that is shown to us each day in various aspects of our lives.  Sister and Brother learn that in another way when their friends' cousin is visiting and they notice that he is different from typical cubs their age.  Mama Bear handles this delicate situation very well with explaining it to Sister and it is a great lesson for all children and adults to hear.  I love how the Bible and Biblical truths are tied into the lessons shared by the Bears and love sharing these with my children.  This is a must-have for all Berenstain Bears readers. 


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