High as The Heavens by Kate Breslin

Books Description

Page-Turning Intrigue and Romance from an Up-and-Coming Historical Romance Talent
In 1917, Evelyn Marche is just one of many women who has been widowed by the war. A British nurse trapped in German-occupied Brussels, she spends her days working at a hospital and her nights as a waitress in her aunt and uncle's café. Eve also has a carefully guarded secret keeping her in constant danger: She's a spy working for a Belgian resistance group in league with the British Secret Service. 

When a British plane crashes in Brussels Park, Eve is the first to reach the downed plane and is shocked to discover she recognizes the badly injured pilot. British RFC Captain Simon Forrester is now a prisoner of war, and Eve knows he could be shot as a spy at any time. She risks her own life to hide him from the Germans, but as the danger mounts and the secrets between them grow, their chance of survival looks grim. And even if they do make it out alive, the truth of what lies between them may be more than any love can overcome.

My Review

Wow, that word doesn't begin to describe what a magnificent book Kate Breslin has written. 

This historical romance takes place in 1917, WWI, Germany. Evelyn has lost her husband and is stuck in Brussels with her mother as her only surviving family. 
Something devastating happens to her and she bares the weight of that guilt on her shoulders through the years. She does what she knows how to do, nursing, and discovers she can use her job to aid in the war as a spy. Gathering intel from wounded soldiers and relaying them to a secret organization known as "La Dame Blanche." 

Three years later, as she sets out to meet a contact, she witnesses a plane crash and finds her thought-to-be dead husband instead. Her quick thinking keeps him from being shot on sight as a traitor but now she must find a way to get him out of brussels and back onto a sovereign soil without blowing her own cover, all while suspecting there is a mole within the organization she works with. 

I can't tell you how amazing this book is. I have loved Kate Breslin's book since the first novel of hers I read "A Time Such as This." With each book she's gotten better and better, and this book is by far her best work to me! It truly makes me look forward to every new work she puts out! Filled with historical pieces that feel real and realistic in it's character portrayal. 

I give this book a 5 out of 5! Highly recommend it to friends, family, and as a gift to anyone who like historical fiction, for sure!

I received this book for free from the publisher’s in exchange for this honest and unbiased review as part of Bethany House's Blogging Review program.

The Mark of the King by Jocelyn Green

Book Description

A sweeping Historical Fiction Set at the Edge of the Continent
After being imprisoned and branded for the death of her client, twenty-five-year-old midwife Julianne Chevalier trades her life sentence for exile to the fledgling 1720s French colony of Louisiana, where she hopes to be reunited with her brother, serving there as a soldier. To make the journey, though, women must be married, and Julianne is forced to wed a fellow convict.

When they arrive in New Orleans, there is no news of Benjamin, Julianne's brother, and searching for answers proves dangerous. What is behind the mystery, and does military officer Marc-Paul Girard know more than he is letting on?

With her dreams of a new life shattered, Julianne must find her way in this dangerous, rugged land, despite never being able to escape the king's mark on her shoulder that brands her a criminal beyond redemption.

My Review

Mark of the King brings historical fiction to stunning reality for it's readers. Julianne, along with a host of many more characters, weren't so utterly hopeless as I have seen when tragedy strikes in some historical fiction, but they reacted to things like real people.It hurt for sure, but they fought for a better life in the face of their sorrows. It was hard not to be drawn into the lives of these people.

Also be warned you will need a box a tissues throughout this book! I know I went through a few tissues during some chapters. 

I think my favorite theme of this book was how Christ, now matter the struggles life sends your way, has offered you a way to cope. Early settlers were met with plenty of strife, more then I knew or can imagine sometimes. So having this book has brought a lot of insight, not just historically but in my Christian growth as well.

Mark of the King is a beautifully written novel you'll have a hard time ever putting down until it's over. I give this book a 5 out of 5!

I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for this honest and unbiased review as part Bethany House blogging for book program.

Just A Kiss by Denise Hunter

Book Description

Riley Callahan’s plans to reveal his secret feelings for his best friend are ruined when his life is drastically altered in Afghanistan.

Watching the love of his life falling for his brother was enough to send Riley straight to boot camp. But over a year later, he’s officially a marine, and Beau and Paige are no longer an item. When Riley’s tour in Afghanistan is up, he intends to confess his feelings to Paige and win his best friend’s heart once and for all.

But all that changes when an IED takes the life of a comrade and leaves Riley an amputee. Now he’s heading home, injured and troubled. His plans to win Paige are a distant dream. She deserves so much more than the man that’s left. All he can do now is put some healthy distance between them. But upon his return he discovers his family has arranged for him to stay with Paige.

Paige is a nurturer at heart and happy to take care of her best buddy. By all appearances he’s adjusting miraculously well to his disability. But as the days pass, Paige begins to see that the smiles and laughter are just a mask for the pain he’s hiding. He has nightmares and mood swings, and his unwavering independence keeps him from accepting help from anyone, including her. To make matters worse, her job is in serious jeopardy. The animal shelter that she’s poured her heart into has lost its funding, and she has three months to come up the money needed to save it.

As the weeks wear on with the two in such close proximity, Paige’s feelings for Riley begin to shift into unchartered territory. Why is she suddenly noticing his corded arm muscles and the way his lips curl at the corners? Will she be able to deny her feelings for another Callahan brother? And will Riley let his heart heal so he can let Paige in?

My Review

Another wonderful ending to a wonderful series! The Summer Harbour series couldn't have ended better. I did find it interesting in the introduction that this book was written as a stand alone but is still apart of the series. Good news for anyone starting from this book for sure!

Riley's story is sort of heartbreaking and sweet. He's loved Riley for so long but having to deal with her dating his brother, it became too much and he enlisted in the military forces to escape, runaway. Now he's back but a little less for wear. After an IED leaves him an amputee, he was prepared to relax in the comfort of his own apartment, but turns out his family and friend Paige already have everything planned out and it's not what he was expecting; not thrilled would be to say the least of Riley's reaction. 

Paige has been in love with a Callahun brother before and it was hard getting over the first one, but why now are feelings stirring for her best friend Riley? Or have they always been there? Paige is a sweet character, I loved her throughout the series! 

The chemistry between them is no longer deniable! But the constant back and forth, not talking (JUST TALK ALREADY) I found myself screaming at them a few times to just talk! I loved every word of it!

Fill with faith, hope, and love you can't get a better book than this. :) 

I give this book a 4 out of 5!

I received this book for free from the publisher’s in exchange for this honest and unbiased review as part of BookLook Bloggers program.

The Wonder of You by Susan May Warren

Book Description

Mortified after her semester abroad is cut short, Amelia Christiansen returns to Deep Haven, certain she isn’t brave enough for the adventures she’s dreamed of. The last thing she expects is for the man who broke her heart to cross the Atlantic and beg forgiveness.

Heir to a European hotel dynasty, Roark St. John has trekked from one exotic locale to another, haunted by tragedy and the expectations that accompany his last name. Amelia is the first woman to give him a reason to stop running. He’ll do anything for a second chance―even contend with Amelia’s old flame, who is intent on sending Roark packing.

While one surprise after another leaves Amelia reeling, Roark’s continued presence only highlights the questions pursuing her. Like him, is she running from the life God has called her to? Could finding her new place mean leaving home behind?

My Review

Beautiful, just beautiful! I loved getting to know Amelia's character. Having started from book #3 I haven't really gotten to know her!

When I saw this was about a rich boy coming to win an american hometown girl I was just a tad concerned I would get bored really quickly. However, that was not the case!

First of all, Roark is not what I expected, far better in fact. He has a much different story than I ever expected. Roark has never felt for anyone the way he does for Amelia Christiansen. He crosses the ocean to try and win her back. However, he has quite a few obstacles to get through. Including some demons that haunt him till this day.  

Amelia runs back home from heartbreak, but that's not all she is running from. She has to figure out what God's will is for her. Is it a life with her high school sweetheart, is it life of adventure taking pictures across the world, is it taking the ultimate risk of a relationship with the British playboy or is she meant for something more?

I loved that the song "Be Thou My Vision" was a part of this book! It just really enhanced the book and overall story of these two endearing characters and then some.

This amazing book is filled with adventure, romance, and faith! Susan May Warren can never disappoint ;) 

I give this book a 5 out of 5!

Not By Sight by Kate Breslin

Book Description

Gripping Sophomore Novel from a Rising Historical Romance Talent

With Britain caught up in WWI, Jack Benningham, heir to the Earl of Stonebrooke, has declared himself a conscientious objector. Instead, he secretly works for the Crown by tracking down German spies on British soil, his wild reputation and society status serving as a foolproof cover.

Blinded by patriotism and concern for her brother on the front lines, wealthy suffragette Grace Mabry will do whatever it takes to assist her country's cause. When she sneaks into a posh London masquerade ball to hand out white feathers of cowardice, she never imagines the chain of events she'll set off when she hands a feather to Jack. 

And neither of them could anticipate the extent of the danger and betrayal that follows them--or the faith they'll need to maintain hope.

My Review

            I couldn’t contain the enthusiasm when I first heard that Kate Breslin was coming out with another book. I squealed when I ordered it seven months later. I jumped for joy when it arrived in my mailbox (silently thanking the Lord the mailman didn’t bend it, stuffing it in my mailbox!) It’s taken me longer to around to reading it sadly, but it was more than worth the wait!

            Grace is such a wonderfully believable character. Innocent yet admirable, she sets out to do her part in the war effort as a suffragette, to support her twin brother who is fighting overseas. That’s how she meets Jack Benningham. Dressed as Pandora, Grace and her maid crash a wealthy ladies lavish Masquerade ball to handout their white feathers of cowardice.

            Jack Benningham is not what he appears. Secretly working for British intelligence, seeking to reveal the traitors to their country. However, he didn’t plan on meeting Pandora that fateful night.  As her beauty captivates him and he charms her with a gentle kiss on her hand, he becomes amused and enraptured by her boldness as she hands him a white feather. Sadly, he let her beauty distract him from the mission and in pursuit of the spy Jack is devastatingly injured. Jack must not only live without his sight, but he must learn to live by faith; a faith not by sight.

            Fit with humor, love, and faith this book is one to have on your bookshelf! You will fall in love with it as soon as you open the book and want to share with others.

I give this book a 5 out of 5 stars!

I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for this honest and unbiased review as part Bethany House blogging for book program.

Fire & Ice by Mary Connealy

Book Description

Bailey Wilde is one of the best new ranchers in the West. She's been living disguised as a man for a while, but when Gage Coulter comes to drive her off her homestead, he quickly realizes he's dealing with a woman--a very tough, very intriguing woman at that.

Gage is an honest man, but he didn't make his fortune being weak. He won't break the law, but he'll push as hard as he can within it. Five thousand acres of his best range land is lost to him because Bailey's homestead is located right across the only suitable entrance to a canyon full of lush grass. Gage has to regain access to his land--and he's got to go through Bailey to do it.

Spending a winter alone has a way of making a person crave some human contact. In a moment of weakness, Bailey agrees to a wild plan Gage concocts. Can these two independent, life-toughened homesteaders loosen up enough to earn each other's respect--and maybe find love in 
the process?

My Review

Yes, yes, yes! Mary Connealy has concluded yet another wonderful series! 

Bailey Wilde was definitely an interesting character, I wasn't always sure what to make of her. She had layers I couldn't begin to figure out on my own. I had to read through to finally see who she was (which I guess is the point, to keep reading, right?) Bailey being the oldest of the Wilde Women, she has always looked after her two younger sisters, shielding and protecting them from their not so great, rather low life, of a father. With the war over, now she wants nothing more than to keep to herself and run her ranch, away from people, especially men. But not because she's secretly a woman, no, there's a deeper fear hiding behind the disguise! Each of the Wild Women fought in the Civil War and each one came back with their own battle scars, but scars only become scars once they've begun to heal. Otherwise, they are just open wounds. 

Gage Coulter, icy, fierce...lovely! I was not expecting to fall for this guy! In the beginning I thought he was gonna A) Be a villain. or B) Constant thorn in everyone's side. He sort of was, especially in Bailey Wilde's case! But I was not expecting to find out he's actually a really good and decent guy! A good ole' Texas man moved across the country to the mountains. All we know in the beginning is that he fled to escape fighting in the Civil War. This book explains it all! Don't worry, I won't spoil it for you. Even if you begged me to tell you I wouldn't! 

I will tell you, however, the twist I didn't see coming even a mile away! Gage tells his mother in one of his letters that he is happily married to get her off his case but now he finds out she's on her way across the country to come see him and his wife! Now he has to find one...you guessed it, Bailey Wilde! If you read the other two books you saw this coming but it was still a great surprise! Now with these two married it got that much better! It doesn't end there, now that Mama Gage is there they can't seem to get her to leave. What will Bailey do with her running and calling the shots in her new groom's life?

And like the previous two books: Tried & True, Now & Forever, there is imminent danger lurking in the mountains! Lives are in danger as someone is trying to kill Gage and stage it to look like an accident! Who is this villain? Guess you'll have to read to find out!

Discovering the meaning of love and trust, Bailey must learn to depend on someone other than herself. Not just Gage, but God!

I give this book a 5 out of 5!

I received this book for free from the publisher’s in exchange for this honest and unbiased review as part of Bethany House Review program.

The Goodbye Bride by Denise Hunter

Book Description

She only remembers loving him. But he can’t forget the way she left.

Lucy Lovett can’t remember the last seven months of her life. She doesn’t remember leaving her fiancé Zac Callahan weeks before their wedding or moving to Portland, Maine. And she sure doesn’t remember getting engaged to another man. All she remembers is loving Zac more than life itself.

Zac was just beginning to get his life back on track after Lucy left him with no explanation. And now she’s back—vulnerable, homeless, and still in love with him. Has he been given a second chance with the only woman who stirs his passion and haunts his dreams?

 Lucy knows she must unlock those missing months and discover why she threw everything away. And Zac knows that if he follows his heart he’ll win back the love of his life—but if Lucy’s memory returns, his would-be bride might say goodbye forever.

My Review

I've been waiting to read this the moment I finished "Falling Like Snowflakes". I wasn't sure what to expect when I saw it was about Zac's runaway bride, Lucy Lovett! But Denise Hunter always knows how to draw you in with captivating, believable, characters that make you never want to put this book down!

I absolutely loved that she added more to the story about Aunt Trudy and the Sheriff and I pray we get to see more of them in the last book. 
I really liked what she did with the story, showing the ramifications of ones childhood can be carried into adulthood without even realizing it. That really made me feel for Lucy. The story in whole was just wonderful and relaxing and sweet. And some sweet southern Sass! This was yet again, another great addition to the Denise Hunter collection. 

I give this book a 4 out of 5!

I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for this honest and unbiased review as part BookLook/Thomas Nelson blogging program.

Always Watching #1 by Lynette Eason

Book Description

The bodyguards of Elite Guardians Agency have more than just skill and prowess in common--they're also all women. When it becomes clear that popular psychiatrist and radio personality Wade Savage has a stalker, his father secretly hires Elite Guardians in order to protect his son.

But when Wade's bodyguard is attacked and nearly killed, agency owner Olivia Edwards must step in and fill the gap. Olivia's skills are about to be tested to the limit as Wade's stalker moves from leaving innocent gifts at his door to threatening those closest to him. Olivia has the feeling that she's next on the list. And to complicate things even further, she realizes that her heart may be in as much danger as her client.

My Review

Get ready to hold onto your seats ladies and gents! When I saw this book coming out, I thought, "this sounds good, intriguing. I think I'll give it a try!" Now if you know me at all, I don't usually go for these kind of books. Not that they don't sound good, but usually I put them to the side in my "when-I'm-in-the-mood-for-that-kind" pile. This was my first time picking up one of Lynette Eason's book.

I AM SO GLAD I DID!

From the first page I was, "this is good." But the more I read the more I realized it wasn't simply good, I was HOOKED. What I loved about the book most was it was that the romance element was not it's primary focus. Don't get me wrong, I love a good love story but sometimes mixing romance in an action adventure such as this can come off very cliche! 

NOT WITH THIS ONE. 

It has just the right dose of romance without distracting from the plot, the stalker! I shudder thinking about that character. Good grief! This book was well written and kept me turning the pages. And I really loved how Lynette was able to incorporate Christianity into the whole thing too. It was natural, nothing felt pushed or cliche in the least!

This novel turned out better than I expected and I CANNOT WAIT to read the next one! (yes, there is another one coming out!!!)

I give this book a 5 out of 5! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!

I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for this honest and unbiased review as part Revell's blogging for book program.

Falling Like Snowflakes by Denise Hunter

Book Description

Eden Martelli is too busy fleeing the clutches of danger to realize she’s running straight into the arms of a new love.

Speeding north through rural Maine, Eden Martelli wonders how her life came to this—on the run with her mute five-year-old son dozing fitfully in the passenger seat. When a breakdown leaves them stranded in Summer Harbor, Eden has no choice but to stay put through Christmas . . . even though they have no place to lay their heads.

Beau Callahan is a habitual problem solver—for other people anyway. He left the sheriff’s department to take over his family’s Christmas tree farm, but he’s still haunted by the loss of his parents and struggling to handle his first Christmas alone.

When Eden shows up looking for work just as Beau’s feisty aunt gets out of the hospital, Beau thinks he’s finally caught a break. Eden is competent and dedicated—if a little guarded—and a knockout to boot. But, as he soon finds out, she also comes with a boatload of secrets.

Eden has been through too much to trust her heart to another man, but Beau is impossible to resist, and the feeling seems to be mutual. As Christmas Eve approaches, Eden’s past catches up to her.

Beau will go to the ends of the earth to keep her safe. But who’s going to protect his heart from a woman who can’t seem to trust again?

My Review

I can't tell you how much I have come to love Denise Hunter's stories and how I am always excited to start a new adventure with her! The start of her Summer Harbor series was not a disappoint! As each of Denise Hunter's books go, they are always filled with fantastic, lovable, and relatable characters!

The camaraderie that Beau and his brothers, and the people of Summer Harbor, shared warmed my insides to the core. But I think I related most to Eden/Kate. That it was not her fear of trusting other people but of trusting herself. After the emotional trauma she endured, she lost her self worth, her identity and she couldn't trust that she wouldn't lose herself again. I have felt, still struggle feeling that way at times. But the lesson being learned is that that fear can keep God's greatest gifts from us!

The story was exciting, almost thrilling at some points, and perfect for the cool winter months. I can't wait to read the next two novels!

I give this book a 5 out of 5!

I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for this honest and unbiased review as part Thomas Nelson’s blogging for book program.

The Memory Weaver by Jane Kirkpatrick

Book Description

Eliza Spalding Warren was just a child when she was taken hostage by the Cayuse Indians during a massacre in 1847. Now the young mother of two children, Eliza faces a different kind of dislocation; her impulsive husband wants them to make a new start in another territory, which will mean leaving her beloved home and her departed mother's grave--and returning to the land of her captivity. Eliza longs to know how her mother, an early missionary to the Nez Perce Indians, dealt with the challenges of life with a sometimes difficult husband and with her daughter's captivity.

When Eliza is finally given her mother's diary, she is stunned to find that her own memories are not necessarily the whole story of what happened. Can she lay the dark past to rest and move on? Or will her childhood memories always hold her hostage?

My Review

Jane Kirkpatrick is by far one of my all time favorite authors. She just has this way about writing that draws you in and makes you want to keep reading. My first book (series) from her was Emma of Aurora and I read the entire series in such a ridiculous short amount of time. Needless to say, I couldn't wait to read Memory Weaver. 

I didn't get quite as drawn in to this book as I did Emma of Aurora but not because of her writing! For me the story was not really my cup of tea but Jane Kirkpatrick's writing still kept my attention (that's how you know you have a good writer!) So even though this book was not my cup of tea perhaps others of you out there will  enjoy it and be captivated by it. I say give it try!

I give this book a 3 out of 5!

I received this book for free from the publisher’s in exchange for this honest and unbiased review as part of Revell Review program.

With This Ring by K.W, M.C, R.J, & M.J

Book Description

Humorous Historical Romance Novella
Collection Offers Love and Laughs
Four top historical romance novelists team up in this new collection to offer stories of love and romance with a twist of humor. In Karen Witemeyer's "The Husband Maneuver," Marietta Hawkins decides to grab the reins when the ranch foreman she loves seems to be leaving forever. Regina Jennings offers "Her Dearly Unintended," where friends stranded by a rising river pretend to be newlyweds when a dangerous stranger arrives.

Mary Connealy's "Runaway Bride" finds a Texas ranger getting more than he expected when he rescues a young woman fleeing a dangerous arranged marriage. And Melissa Jagears' "Engaging the Competition" finds a young woman forced to assist the man she's often sparred with after an accident leaves him helpless. Each tale is a fun blend of history and romance that will delight readers.

My Review

With this Ring?

Mary Connealy, Karen Witemyer, Regina Jennings, and Melissa Jagears come together with a collection of novellas, mixing humor and romance with a dash of adventure. Is there any less to be expected by these four famous authors?

The Husband Maneuver

In this short story we revisit two characters from Karen Witemeyer’s book “A Worthy pursuit”. Daniel Barret, Or Dead-eye Dan affectionately known to those who have read the book, is ready to build his own place and his own business, but Marietta isn’t ready for him to go, at least not without her as his wife.

Fear and love push Marietta into action. Trying to maneuver the quiet Daniel into a marriage proposal.

Most men will probably going  “Aha” right about now, but trust me when I saw that Marietta loved Daniel, and if you thought you’d lose someone forever you might be willing to do the same thing yourself.

It was a great pleasure to see these two beloved characters once again, and to see how their story ended. I also enjoyed reading experts from the last Dead-eye Dan book at the beginning of each chapter, what a fun treat!

Her Dearly Unintended

This story is a coming of age story for our two characters Josiah Huckabee and Katie Ellen Watson. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but I was pleased to find Regina Jennings in her element, as always.  Josiah, a fearless young man, wants to woo Katie Ellen, but she will have nothing to do with him. A logical, crafty, young woman Katie Ellen holds onto two years of pain caused by one small moment in time with Josiah, using it as a shield against Josiah. But things don’t quite go as any of them expected, with an old man taking residence in Katie Ellen’s home, and her only source of protection from the stranger is Josiah’s.

I enjoyed seeing the barriers come down around Katie’s heart, and that it taught me that the little details shouldn’t be stressed over so much, not when it comes to the ones you love.

Runaway Bride

I have no clue how many of Mary Connealy’s books are connected in this one little short story, but by the amount of names I feel I should know in here I am guessing a lot. Carrie Halsey, sister to Audra Halsey, is on the run from the fate her father forced upon her older sibling. As in most of Mary Connealy’s books there are twists of romance, action, and suspense even in this short story. I won’t spoil this story, but for all those Connealy fans out there I am sure they will love this quick stop on there way to the next novel.

Engaging the Competition

Now, Melissa Jagears story I was a little weary of, after learning about her book “A Bride in Store” from my sister. I did expect much from this story. Gladly I was very wrong about this one.

You would never expect rivals to make a good couple, Harrison Gray thought the same. He and Charlotte used to be the best of friends, until their competiveness got in the way. Because of his impaired sight and the need to wear glasses Harrison felt he couldn’t match up to Charlotte, and even the one time he felt he could best her he realized he was trying to publicly humiliate a woman. He did not want to be known as that type of man. With their friendship over Harrison didn’t think he would have to deal with her again. God had other plans.

Charlotte ends up breaking his glasses, and to make up for it she helps him teach his school class.

An interesting and sweet story that will have you captivated from the first few pages.

The book was a joy to read, and though I found the lack of faith a little odd, I still would recommended it for many readers.  With laughter, struggle, and love abound many will find themselves lost for an hour or two in one of these novellas.

I give this book a 4 out of 5!

I received this book for free from the publisher’s in exchange for this honest and unbiased review as part of Bethany House Review program.

Together with You by Victoria Bylin

Book Description

When a Lost Child warning blares over the mall's PA system, Carly Mason finds the little girl playing with a stuffed rabbit. Something about Penny Tremaine is different. An ex-social worker, Carly recognizes that the child suffers fetal alcohol effects, and a piece of Carly's past suddenly confronts her. Never again will she become personally involved with a client. The risks are far too great. But something about Penny--and Penny's handsome father--tugs at Carly's heart.

Dr. Ryan Tremaine is trying to put his life back together. With his ex-wife remarried and on a trip far away, his two teenage sons and Penny are living under his roof full time. Ryan has put his faith in his Sink-or-Swim list, a plan to reconnect with his children. The first step: recruit Carly Mason to be Penny's nanny.

Ryan never anticipated being so drawn to Carly, an attraction Carly seems to fight as much as he does. Could Carly be the missing piece that helps his family stay afloat, or will their blossoming romance only complicate things further?

My Review

This was a wonderful story! Reading it I felt like I was reading a modern day Christian version of the Sound of Music. Come to find out that was quite intentional which just made my love for her writing grow even more! No, it was not based off of anything from the sound of music, but it held the same spirit.

A story filled with mistakes, bad decisions, growing pains, hope, love and forgiveness.


Carley, a preachers daughter who left her home to get away from a mistake she made comes to find herself as a nanny for a little girl with FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) after reuniting her with her all too severe and unsmiling, yet handsome, father in the mall toy store where she worked.

Ryan has a list he wants to accomplish with his family over the summer while his ex-wife is on vacation with her new husband, but things aren't going well when he loses his daughter in the mall. Thankfully, she is returned safe and sound with Carley. When he finds she is familiar with FASD, after having just lost his last nanny, asks to hire her on the spot!

One of the things I loved about this book was reading from Penny's point of view. Rarely do I get to read and see how that character perceives and processes's the world they live in. It pulled on my heart and helped me to understand what Penny was going through then if I had just read it from Ryan or Carley.

I also loved that the story wasn't just about Ryan and Carley falling in love, it was about the whole family! Ryan's two sons played a fairly big role in this story. Carley connects with them and even and helps bring them together as a family and as individuals.

There was so much more to this book than I can put in a single review, but I couldn't put this book down when I read it and so I highly recommend it.

I give this book a 5 out of 5!

I received this book for free from the publisher’s in exchange for this honest and unbiased review as part of Bethany House Review program.

The Christmas Joy Ride by Melody Carlson

Book Description

Miranda did not put adventure on her Christmas list, but thanks to her eighty-five-year-old neighbor Joy, that's exactly what she's getting this year. When Joy tells Miranda that she plans to drive an old RV decked out in Christmas decorations from their Chicago neighborhood to her new retirement digs in Phoenix--in the dead of winter, no less--the much younger Miranda insists that Joy cannot make such a trip by herself. Besides, a crazy trip with Joy would be more interesting than another Christmas home alone. Unemployed and facing foreclosure, Miranda feels she has nothing to lose by packing a bag and heading off to Route 66. But Joy has a hidden agenda for their Christmas joyride--and a hidden problem that could derail the whole venture.

No one captures the heartwarming fun of the Christmas season quite like Melody Carlson. Fasten your seat belt, because it's going to be an exciting ride!

My Review

And what an exciting ride it was! I've never read any of Melody Carlson's Christmas stories before, but now I think I am going to make it an annual tradition! Christmas Joy Ride was full of the Christmas spirit. I wish Joy Jorgensen was my neighbor. I would have been Miranda, making sure she wasn't crazy for doing this, but in the end thanking God the ride. 

As the adventures goes, Miranda heads off with Joy down Route 66 to bring the spirit of Christmas to residents in a nursing home, a diner owner and her daughter, a rehab center for young adults, a hair salon, foster parents and their kids, and a young girl, and her widowed father, who lost her mother, at Christmastime years before. 

All of the stories touched my heart and was filled with laughter, but the message in them all that reached me, was, "No matter what, joy is just around the bend. Especially, if you take the time to let it in your heart and then go to those around you." {Romans 15:32}

I give this book a 5 out of 5!

"Well, I have more to say to you, but I don't want to say it in a letter. For I hope to visit you soon and talk to you face to face. Then our joy will be complete." {2 John 1:12}

I received this book for free from the publisher’s in exchange for this honest and unbiased review as part of Revel Review program.

A Sparrow in Terezin by Kristy Cambron

Book Description

Two women, one in the present day and one in 1942, each hope for a brighter future. But they'll both have to battle through their darkest days to reach it.

Today. With the grand opening of her new gallery and a fairytale wedding months away, Sera James appears to have a charmed life. But in an instant, the prospect of a devastating legal battle surrounding her fiancé threatens to tear her dreams apart. Sera and William rush to marry and are thrust into a world of doubt and fear as they defend charges that could separate them for life.

June 1942. After surviving the Blitz bombings that left many Londoners with shattered lives, Kája Makovsky prayed for the war to end so she could return home to Prague. But despite the horrors of war, the gifted journalist never expected to see a headline screaming the extermination of Jews in work camps. Half-Jewish with her family in danger, Kája has no choice but to risk everything to get her family out of Prague. But with the clutches of evil all around, her escape plan crumbles into deportation, and Kája finds herself in a new reality as the art teacher to the children of Terezin.

Bound by a story of hope and the survival of one little girl, both Sera and Kája will fight to protect all they hold dear.

My Review

From the author that brought us the first captivating Hidden Masterpiece novel "the Butterfly and the Violin", Kristy Cambron has done it again with her sequel "A Sparrow in Terezin". From the moment I finished her first book and saw there was to be a second novel, I couldn't wait to read it! I waited 9 months and I was not the least bit disappointed.

Kristy Cambron brings to the life two women with incredible tales.

Sera James Hanover who is scared to death that her newly wed husband will have to spend a decade in prison for something she believes he did not do. But the Hanover's are keeping a secret from her. No one, including William, will tell her why his father left them all those years ago. Their afraid to talk about it. But it might be the only thing that could save William from serving from a crime he didn't commit.

Kája Makovsky after leaving Prague and her family, finds herself as an assistant at the The Daily Telegraph in England where she meets the strange but handsome reporter Liam Marshal. Just as their love began to blossom, before it had really even had the chance, London was bombed and the world of London changed. But that didn't seem to stop them from falling in love, in fact, I think it made them realize how much they loved each other from the very moment they met!

Both woman travel to the ends of the earth to help the ones they love. Connected beyond years, these two stories are woven with amazing hope and love.

"I command you--be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you where you go." ~Joshua 1:9 NLT

When I first started reading this book, I was so engrossed with Kája and Liam all I wanted to do was skip right past Sera's chapters to see what happened next. But my sister advised against that and I'm glad she did because as the chapters went on I began to see the connection between the two. Like the Butterfly and the Violin, a special piece of memory passed down from 1942 would be a key puzzle piece. So you don't want to miss a single page of this book! It's filled with depth of story and character all the way through. And I love how Sophie is connected in both books. It's woven in so perfectly.

I absolutely love this book! I have no idea if there is to be any more sequels at this moment, but I truly hope there is. If not, I'd read just about anything Kristy Cambron writes. She is an amazing author. Especially when it comes to historical fiction, I could read that from her all day. History has always intrigued me as some of you might already know, but it does take a well writing author to make Historical Fiction worth reading. Kirsty Cambron not only brings the characters to life, but you can't help but fall in love with them and want to be apart of their lives long after you've closed the book.

I also have to add that I really love Penny! I was so glad more story was added for her!

When I finished this book I cried. I couldn't even pick up another fiction book for days because I wasn't ready to leave that world with the sparrows.

I highly recommend buying it and if you haven't read the first Hidden Masterpiece the Butterfly and the Violin then I highly recommend you get on that ASAP!

I give this book a 5 out of 5 stars!

I received this book for free from the publisher’s in exchange for this honest and unbiased review as part of BookLook Bloggers program.

Take A Chance On Me by Susan May Warren

Book Description

Darek Christiansen is almost a dream bachelor―oldest son in the large Christiansen clan, heir to their historic Evergreen Lake Resort, and doting father. But he’s also wounded and angry since the tragic death of his wife, Felicity. No woman in Deep Haven dares come near. 

New assistant county attorney Ivy Madison simply doesn’t know any better when she bids on Darek at the charity auction. Nor does she know that when she crafted a plea bargain three years ago to keep Jensen Atwood out of jail and in Deep Haven fulfilling community service, she was releasing the man responsible for Felicity’s death. All Ivy knows is that the Christiansens feel like the family she’s always longed for. And once she gets past Darek’s tough exterior, she finds a man she could spend the rest of her life with. Which scares her almost as much as Darek learning of her involvement in his wife’s case. 

Caught between new love and old grudges, Darek must decide if he can set aside the past for a future with Ivy―a future more and more at risk as an approaching wildfire threatens to wipe out the Christiansen resort and Deep Haven itself.

My Review

It's a wonder how I ever missed such a book! Susan May Warren's first book in the Christiansen Family series is one you won't want to miss! A story of repentance, forgiveness, and taking a chance on God!

Darek Christiansen, most eligible bachelor in town, yet no ones dares bid on him; the man with the boulder size chip on his shoulder. That is, until Ivy Madison comes to Deep Haven. Not knowing his history, feeling sorry for him she bids on the lonely bachelor. She soon wishes she hadn't. Darek has built walls around him so thick, it seems nearly impossible to get through them. But this woman just might be his undoing. 

Ivy Madison, new assistant county attorney of Deep Haven, an orphan looking for a home. Her whole life seems to be a struggle of survival and belonging. Moving from foster home to foster home slowly built a wall around her heart. But that didn't stop her, she went to Law school to help those who, like herself, fall through the cracks. 

One of the things I absolutely love about Susan's books, they don't revolve solely around two characters. More characters come into play with their own wonderful story which beautifully weaves everything together! I can't help but love every character that enters the scene. 

Claire Gibson, gardner by day and pizza maker by night. Every one is encouraging her to move on and leave Deep Haven, but with her grandfather sick how can she live? But is that her only reason for staying? Something deeper lingers inside, love or fear? 

Jensen Atwood, accused felon working off his probation in a town where everyone seems to hate him. Even himself. After allegedly killing the wife of his best friend, Jensen stays secluded rather than face the town and their judgment. 

Darek's mother, Ingrid, has to be one of my absolute favorites. Her faith and love is the honey that glues it all together. She melted my heart with her tender love towards Ivy. The love for her son and grandson. It made me desperately long to go a visit Ingrid Christiansen just to get a hug from her. 

Each one of these characters experience a form of grief, loss, disappointment, and love. Not just from one another, but in God. I found every one of them so relatable I cried. The feeling of rejection and doubt of belonging to disappointment and wondering if God would listen. 

I originally started this series in book #3: When I Fall In Love. I had no idea it was a part of the series or that it was in the middle of one. But that's a good thing! I was able to read and fall in love with the series without feeling like I'd jumped in the middle of something. However, now that I've read the first book, I feel more complete!

I hope you will check out this book and the rest of the Christiansen Family series. You won't be disappointed. And if you are, well, maybe you are just having a bad day and need to try again next time! Haha!

I give this book a 5 out of 5 stars!

To Capture Her Heart by Rebecca DeMarino

Book Description 

It is 1653 and Heather Flower, a princess of the Montauk tribe, is enjoying her wedding feast when her groom is killed and she is kidnapped by a rival tribe and held for ransom. Though her ransom is paid by an Englishman, she is nonetheless left to die in a Connecticut forest--until she finds herself rescued by handsome Dutch Lieutenant Dirk Van Buren. Torn between her affection for Dirk and her long friendship with family friend Benjamin Horton, Heather Flower must make a difficult choice--stay true to her friend or follow her heart.

My Review

“He ransoms me from death and surrounds me with love and tender mercies.” –Psalms 103:4

The story of Heather Flower and Dirk and Benjamin was delightful and fascinating. I wasn’t sure what was going to happen all the way up to the very end! I liked the stories Heather Flower shared of her people and their customs with Mary and friends. Reading it truly has given me a desire to one day take a trip to Long Island and visit the Southold Museum. The love that she shares with both Dirk and Benjamin is beautiful, and with the people of Southold and even ones further out of reach.

I was excited when I ordered this book but quickly became skeptical when I saw it was the second in the series. It’s always hard starting in the middle of a series. You feel like you should know characters that come walking in but you don’t who they are or how they are related to the story. It was the same for this one, however, about 5 chapters in you get into the rhythm and never want put it down.

I recommend reading the first book if possible, but if you can’t don’t worry. Rebecca DaMarino didn’t make this book impossible to read if you missed it like I did.

Her writing style is captivating to me and the flow between characters was just right. Though I have to say, I wanted more of Dirk! Still, there were a few times I couldn’t tell who was talking or asking a question because of the way some of the paragraphs ended and began, but when I got used to her style of writing it was quick to see. The only thing I was a little disappointed in was from the description of the book it sounds like the entire book is all about Heather Flower and her romance with Dirk. However, it was not. You see more of the characters from the first book, like Mary and her friends and family and hardly ever see Dirk and Heather Flower. This love between Dirk and Heather Flower didn’t really have any development either. However, I still really enjoyed it.

“He fills my life with good things. My youth is renewed like the eagle’s!” – Psalms 103:5

Rebecca DeMarino captured my heart with this historical masterpiece. I’ve never heard of the Horton’s or of Southold, Long Island and the Indians that lived in that territory but this book makes me want to learn more about it all. I can’t wait to go back and read the first book and patiently awaiting the third novel.

I give this book 4 out of 5 stars!

 received this book for free from the publisher’s in exchange for this honest and unbiased review as part of Revel Review program.

PS: Don't forget to checkout Rebecca DeMarino's awesome giveaway!

To Capture Her Heart Book Launch