Freedom's Light

I have never read a book by Colleen Coble that I'd didn't like! Freedom's Light was probably my favorite to date. First of all, just look at the cover! Isn't that gorgeous?!

Hanna Thomas believe she's escaped Galen Wright's evil intentions by marrying an older lighthouse keeper. Seemingly safe in faraway Massachusetts, her world is upended when John is killed in one of the first battles of the Revolutionary War. Hannah is allowed to continue the difficult task of tending the twin lighthouses in John's place, though she faces daily disapproval from John's family. She thinks her loneliness will subside when her younger sister arrives, but she finds Lydia's obsession only escalates the dangerous tides swirling around her.

A stormy night brings a shipwrecked sea captain to Hannah's door, and though he is a Tory, her heart is as traitorous as the dark eyed captain. Even though she discovers Birch Meredith isn't the enemy he seemed at first, Hanna isn't sure their love will ever see the light of freedom.

I highly recommend this book! Especially if you are a fan of Christian historical fiction.

***Thanks to booklookbloggers.com for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

The House at Saltwater Point

I can always count on Author Colleen Coble to provide a book that I love.   The House at Saltwater Point is the perfect example of why I love her books so much.  From the minute I picked it up until the last page, I did not want to stop reading.  There is a perfect blend of romance, suspense and action that kept me fully engaged.  I love that I never can guess the ending and I'm left guessing until the end.  

"Taking place on Washington State's Puget Sound, this follow-up to The View from Rainshadow Bay features delightful characters and an evocative, atmospheric setting. Ideal for fans of romantic suspense." --Library Journal

The dangerous beauty of Lavender Tides is harboring secrets that reach around the world.

Ellie Blackmore is making a name for herself as a house flipper. But when her sister Mackenzie disappears, Ellie can’t focus on anything but uncovering what happened. Her only clue is the bloodstain on the deck of Mackenzie’s boat. Ellie knows her sister isn’t on the best of terms with her ex-husband, Jason, but he wouldn’t kill her—would he? 

Coast Guard intelligence officer Grayson Bradshaw believes Mackenzie faked her own death after stealing a seized cocaine shipment. The problem is convincing Ellie, who seems to view him as the true enemy.

Both Ellie and Grayson want truth, but truth—and family—is often more complex than it first appears. From international terrorism to the peaceful lavender fields of Puget Sound, The House at Saltwater Point is a thrilling race to uncover the truth before it’s too late.

If you are a fan of christian suspense with a bit of romance, you are sure to love this book!

***Thanks to booklookbloggers for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Thief of Corinth - Book Review

When it comes to biblical fiction Tessa Afshar is one of my favorite authors and the Thief of Corinth is the perfect example of why I love her writing.

When I read biblical fiction I like a story written in a biblical time period, filled with history of the cities and places we read about in the Bible, but when it comes to the characters, I like them to be fictional.  This is just a personal preference of mine.  I don't want to veer from biblical truth.  Tessa Afshar writes these beautiful stories that are rich in faith, biblical truths, but stays true to the Bible.

First-century Corninth is a city teeming with commerce and charm.  It's also filled with danger and corruption.

After years spent living with her mother and oppressive grandfather in Athens, Ariadne runs away to her father's home in Corinth, only to discover the perilous secret that destroyed his marriage:  though a Greek of high birth, Galenos is the infamous thief who has been robbing the city's corrupt of their ill-gottten gains.

Desperate to keep him safe, Ariadne risks her good name, her freedom, and the love of the man she adores to become her father's apprentice.  As her unusual athletic ability leads her into dangerous exploits, Ariadne discovers that she secretly revels in playing with fire.  But when the wrong person discovers their secret, Ariadne and her father find their future-and very lives-hanging in the balance

When they befriend a Jewish rabbi named Paul, they realize that his radical message challenges everything they've fought to build, yet offers something neither dared hope for.

  Such a great book, that I couldn't recommend more!

***Thanks to Tyndale Publishing for providing me a copy of this great book in exchange for my honest review.

Minding the Light - A Book Review

Historical Christian fiction is my all time favorite genre and Author Suzanne Woods Fisher is one of my favorite authors in this category. She writes such beautiful stories that are rich in historical facts.

I love this book! It had absolutely everything I love. History, romance, Christian faith, characters that are easy to connect with.

We all have an idea or plan of how we want our life to go, but circumstances of life sometimes turn everything upside down and we find ourself on a new path. This story is so relatable. I think most everyone can relate to those circumstances.

Six long years ago, Captain Reynolds Macy sailed away from his bride, looking forward to the day when he would return to Nantucket Island with a ship's hold full of whale oil.  But when that momentous day finally arrives, Ren soon discovers that everything has changed in his absence. Everything.

Unlike most islanders, bold and spirited Daphne Coffin doesn't defer to Ren as an authoritative whalemaster, but sees through his aloofness to the aching heart beneath. She encourage him to return to his Quaker roots and "mind theLight" finding solace in God and community. As Ren becomes the man she believes him to be honarable, wise, faithful-she finds herself falling in love with him.

But how can she, when her heart is spoken for?

***Thanks to Revell Reads for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

The Hope of Azure Springs - A Book Review

Seven Years ago, orphaned and alone, Em finally arrived at a new home in Iowa after riding the orphan train. But secrets from her past haunt her, and her new life in the Western wilderness is a rough one.  When her guardian is shot and killed, Em, now nineteen, finally has the chance to search for her long lost sister, but she won't be able to do it alone.

For Azure Springs Sheriff Caleb Reynolds, securing justice for the waifish and injured Em is just part of his job.  He's determined to solve every case put before him in order to impress his parents and make a name for himself.  Caleb expects to succeed.  What he doesn't expect is the hold this strange young woman will have on his heart.

I love Historical Romance and The Hope of Azure Springs has everything I love in a good novel.  From the very first page I could not put this book down.  It was perfect from front to back and I can't recommend it enough.  You will laugh and cry.  The characters are well developed and so much of the emotion were things I could relate to.

This was the first book I have read by Rachel Fordham, but I can assure you that it won't be my last.  She has made me an instant fan and I am looking forward to her next release!

***Thanks to Revell Reads for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

The Edge of Over There - Book Review

Before the Tree of Life, everything in Abra Miller's life had been predictable, but after the Tree and the lighting and the angels, everything felt tenuous, like holding a soap bubble in the palm of her hand.  She spent years looking for signs of that other world, waiting for it to break through.  When it didn't her friendship with Sam Chambers grew cold and distant, and they both wondered how any of it could actually have happened.

Four years later, 16 year old Abra's long delayed quest to find the next manifestation of the Tree of Life is renewed when she sees a woman walking up the road - a woman who looks exactly like Sam's dead mother.  The woman directs her to New orleans wher she will find the grave of Marie Laveau, on of seven gateways  between this world and Over There.  As Abra enters The Edge of Over There and begins her pursuit of the Tree once more, she doesn't know whom to fear or whom to trust.  But she's starting to think that some doorways should never be opened.

I have a very hard time connecting with this book.  It is supposed to be Christian fiction but I struggled with feeling that it fit into that category.  Part of me feels like it is supposed to be an allegory with deeper meaning, but I just didn't feel it or get it.  It was just strange and had a very dark side to it.  The angels didn't even like being called angels.  It was just too dark for me.  Maybe I'm not seeing the real meaning behind it, but for me I cannot with a clear conscience recommend it Christian fiction, however if you can put that aside, you may enjoy it as a fiction read.

***Thanks to Revell Reads for providing me with this book in exchange for my honest review.

Sons of Blackbird Mountain - A Book Review

I don't know how she does it but Author Joanne Bischof has captured my heart again with another great novel.  The last book she wrote "The Lady and the Lionheart has become my all time favorite book and now this one is coming in at a close second.

I wasn't sure what the book was even going to be about when I received it, I just knew I wanted to read it.  As soon as I opened it and realized that it was centered around ASL I was so excited.  I have always been interested in this beautiful language and have taken several classes.  She did so well and this in such a respectful  and accurate way and it gave the reader a greater knowledge of this language.

After the tragic death of her husband, Aven Norgaard is beckoned to give up her life in Norway to become a housekeeper in the rugged hills of nineteenth-century Appalachia.  Upon arrival, she finds herself in the home of her late husband's cousins-three brothers who make a living by brewing hard cider on their three hundred acre farm.  Yet even as a stranger in a foreign land, Aven has hope to build a new life in the tight knit family.

but her unassuming beauty disrupts the bond between the brothers.  The youngest two both desire her hand and Aven is caught in the middle, unsure where and whether to offer her affection.  While Haakon is bold and passionate, it is Thor who casts the greatest spell upon her.  Though Deaf, mute and dependent on hard drink to cope with his silent pain.  Thor possesses a sobering strength.

As autumn ushers in the apple harvest, the rift between Thor and Haakon deepens and Aven faces a choice that risks hearts.  Will two brothers longing for her quiet spirit tear apart a family?  Can she find a tender belonging in this remote, rugged and unfamiliar world?

I can't recommend this book enough.  It is sure to be one you love!

***Thanks to booklookbloggers.com for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

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River To Redemption - A Book Review

River to Redemption by Ann H. Gabhart is one of the best books I have read in a long time.  .  My all time favorite genre would be Christian Historical Fiction and this novel was written set in one of my favorite time periods.

Adria Starr lost her entire family to the cholera epidemic of 1833.  As most of the towns people fled to escape the "bad air" two slaves stayed behind.  Louis could have fled to freedom, but instead stayed behind and cared for the sick and buried the dead.  Louis came to Adria's rescue and when the towns people returned he made sure she had a good home.  Ruth Harmon was widowed by the same cholera epidemic and agrees to take the young Adria in.

Twelve years have passed and Louis is about to be sold, but Adria is determined to buy his freedom.  The whole town remembers Louis' selfless act and come together to help Adria in her efforts.  Ruth has been alone for all these years and has all but given up on her dreams of having children of her own, but when a new preacher comes to town it seems she may have a second chance at love and a real family.

Adria is ready to risk everything for a cause she feels passionately about, but will it come at a cost to Ruth, Louis and all the people she has come to love?

I cannot say enough good things about this book.  It is going on my shelf of favorites.  Such a great message of love and waiting on God's timing and answered prayers.  I could not put it down and loved everything about it!

***Thanks to Revell Reads for providing me a copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review.

Send Down The Rain - A Book Review

Send Down The Rain is written by New York Times Bestselling Author Charles Martin.  This book is a little different than what I normally read. When I requested Send Down The Rain I was not sure what to expect. I had never read anything by Charles Martin, but I figured if he was a Bestselling author it was worth a shot, plus I had read a few raving reviews about the book.

I'll just be real for a minute. I picked this book up and began reading three different times. The first two times I struggled through the first few pages and gave up. By the third time I was telling myself to trudge through. So, I grabbed it one more time and began reading. Funny thing, this time I loved it. After I got through the first two chapters I became engrossed in the story and read half the book in one night. I had to force myself to close it, because I needed to get a few hours of sleep before morning. The next day I could wait to find time to finish the book.

I'm so thankful I stepped out of my box and gave this book a chance and if anything it goes to show that sometimes you have to dig a little deeper into a story before you actually connect, but give it a chance and you just might love it!

About the book:

Allie is still recovering from the loss of her family's beloved waterfront restaurant on Florida's gulf coast when she loses her second husband to a terrible highway accident.  Devastated and losing hope, she shudders to contemplate the future-until a cherished person from her past returns.

Joseph has been adrift for many years, wounded in both body and spirit and unable to come to terms with his Vietnam War experiences. Just as he resolves to give up his search for peace, he discovers a mother and her two small children lost in the forest. He instinctively steps in to help them get to their home in Florida. There he returns to his hometown and has a bittersweet reunion with his childhood sweetheart Allie.

When Joseph offers to help Allie rebuild her restaurant, it seems the flame may reignite, until a 45 year old secret from the past begins to emerge, threatening to destroy all hope for their second chance at love.

***Thank you to booklookbloggers.com for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Together Forever - A Book Review

Together Forever by Jody Hedlund is the second book in the Orphan Train series.  I've been loving this series and was so excited about the release of this second book.I've always been interested in the Orphan Trains and historical fiction is one of my favorite genres.  Not to mention I love Jody Hedlund.

Marianne Neumann has one goal in life:  to find her lost younger sister, Sophie.  When Marianne takes a job as a placing agent with the Children's Aid Society in 1858 New York, she not only hopes to give children a better life but seeks to discover whether Sophie ended up leaving the city on an orphan train.

Andrew Brady, her fellow agent on her first placing trip, is a former schoolteacher who has an easy way with children-firm but tender and funny.  Underneath his handsome charm, though, seems to linger a grief that won't go away, and a secret from his past that he keeps hidden.  As the two team up placing orphans amid small railroad towns in Illinois, they find themselves growing ever closer...until a shocking tragedy threatens to upend all their work and change one of their lives forever.  

I always enjoy the Author's note at the end of the book.  Not all Author's include this, but Jody Hedlund doesn't disappoint here either.  I enjoy getting a glimpse into the thought process behind a book and a little more facts to go along with the fiction.

I would definitely recommend this great book.  Especially if you are like me and love historical Christian fiction.  

***Thanks to Bethany House Publishing for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!

More Than Meets the Eye - Book Review

Many consider Evangeline Hamilton cursed.  Orphaned at a young age and possessing a pair of mismatched eyes- one blue and the other brown - Eva has fought to find her way in a world that constantly rejects her.  Yet the support of even one person can help overcome the world's judgements, and Eva has two - Set and Zach, two former orphans she now counts as brothers.

Seeking justice against the man who stole his birthright and destroyed his family, Logan Fowler arrives in Pecan Gap, Texas to confront Zach Hamilton, the hardened criminal responsible for his father's death.  Only instead of finding a solitary ruthless gambler, he discovers a man not much older than himself with an unusual family.  When Zach's sister, Evangeline, insists on dousing Logan with sunshine every time their paths cross, Logan finds his quest completely derailed.  Who is truly responsible for his lost legacy, and will restoring the past satisfy if it means forfeiting a future with Evangeline?

My favorite genre to read is historical Christian romance and this book by Karen Witemeyer fits perfectly into that category.  Its a very heartwarming story and was a quick and easy read.  Evangeline has had so much heartache in her life, but her outlook is refreshing.  There is a strong sense of family, but this book goes to show that family is not always blood.  Sometimes it is the people you choose.

Thank you so much to Bethany House Publishing for providing me with a copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review.

Arms Of Mercy - A Book Review

On the eve of a new year, Catherine Glick is expecting her bu of five years to propose.  Instead, the unexpected arrival of an old boyfriend, Elijah, sends her life spiraling out of control.  When a rash decision damages her current relationship Catherine leaves for Florida to work in her cousin's bakery - anything to flee the source of her shame.

Elijah Graber knows he hurt Catherine when he left their Amish district six years ago. HE's determined to explain his actions, even if it means following her to Florida.  Perhaps their two day work bus trip together will provide enough time for him to make his case and win her back.

Just when Elijah is starting to tear down the walls Catherine has built, their busk skids on an icy road and amid the mayhem and tragedy that follow, Catherine disappears.  Elijah's friends urge him to prepare for the worst, but Elijah holds on to his hope in God and refuses to give up his search for Catherine.  With supernatural nudging from the most unexpected places, Elijah sets out to find the love he once lost - no matter the cost.

If you enjoy reading Amish Fiction you are probably already familiar with Ruth Reid.  She is a very skilled author in bringing to life and insight of the daily life of the Amish community.  Her books are always filled with deep faith, a touch of romance and well developed characters.  You can always expect a few unexpected twists that keep you guessing as well.

Arms of Mercy was a very enjoyable read and the cover is absolutely beautiful!  Highly recommended for Amish fiction lovers!


*Thanks to booklookbloggers.com for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Before I Saw You - Book Review

Sometimes I am a little leery of reading books by Authors I am unfamiliar with.  I have my favorite Authors, the tried and true ones that I know when they have a new book I will love it.  But there are those times when I pick up a book by a "new to me" author and I am so intrigued by what I read that I want to go back and read the author's previous books.

Such was the case with Before I Saw You by Amy K. Sorrells. I absolutely loved this book and did not want to put it down from start to finish.  I connected well with the main character and her story was gut wrenching.  My heart broke for her and in the end I rejoiced with her.

There is a heroin epidemic where Jaycee Givens lives.  Folks are dying and Jaycee doesn't have  more than a thread of hope.  A tragedy lands her mother in prison and Jaycee is pregnant.  She is trying to hide the pregnancy because she trusts no one.  when the time comes that she can no longer hide the pregnancy, not even from the baby's abusive father, she decides that she must make some tough choices for the safety of her unborn child.  Sometimes you have to decide whether to hang on or let go and the truest form of love will help you decide.

I highly recommend this book and I can't wait to read more from this author!

***Thanks to Tyndale Fiction for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

A Breath Of Hope - A Book Review

A Breath of Hope by Lauraine Snelling is the second book in the Under Northern Skies series.

I am so in love with this series!  I am a huge fan of Lauraine Snelling and her Blessing series in one of my all time favorites.  This new series is going to be equally as good, and high up on my favorites list, if it continues to follow the pattern it has been.

I don't know how she does it, but this author makes me feel like the characters are family.  The way she describes them allows me to connect with each on a very personal level.  I love how each book introduces new characters, but there is still a focus on the original characters.  This is great when you form a connection with characters.  You know that you will continue to read about them and know what's going on in their lives as well.

In this book, Ivar and Nilda join Rune and his family in Minnesota.  Rune and Signe still have a constant struggle with Uncle Einar, but due to tragedy they learn why he is like he is and the family comes together like never before.

I definitely recommend this book, but you must read the series in order!  This is not a good stand alone book.  To better connect with the characters you need to start from the beginning.

***Thanks to Bethany House Publishing for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

I Can Only Imagine - A Book Review

I was so excited to get the chance to review I Can Only Imagine - A Memoir by Bart Millard.  I'm sure by now most of you have already seen the movie, you know the song, but did you know there's a book?

After seeing the movie the first week it released I had so many questions as to what was true to life and what was "hollywood upped".  The Memoir has answered all my questions.  By reading the book you get to go behind the scenes of the movie, plus a backstage pass, so to speak, to Bart's life.

One thing I especially liked about the book is that included Shannon's side of the story.  I loved this addition and it was great to read her take on things.  I also really like that Bart included personal pictures of his family.  I admit that I looked at the pictures first.  This actually helped me to put real faces to the people I was reading about rather than Hollywood actors.

I would recommend this to any fan of Mercy Me and the song/movie I Can Only Imagine.  It will give you a much more personal look into the life of Bart Millard.

Thanks to booklookbloggers.com for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

The Weaver's Daughter - A Book Review

The Weaver's Daughter is a Regency Romance Novel by Sarah E. Ladd.  She is one of my favorite Authors and this book is an example as to why.  So elegantly written with such detail, she paints such a vivid picture of the events. I also am a huge fan of historical fiction and Sarah E. Ladd is an author that you can always tell has studied and done her homework.  I can't recommend this beautiful novel enough.  And just look at the cover!  Isn't that enough to make you want to go out and buy the book right now!

Kate's father is a weaver and loyalty runs strong in the Dearborne family.  Weaver's stay with weaver's.  Henry has loyalties as well.  He strives for a better future for their small town where tensions are growing.  Kate wants to be loyal to her father, but as misguided actions are brought to light she begins to wonder if she has placed her loyalty in the wrong place.

Henry is a different man when he returns from war, but when tragedy strikes he must take up the Stockton business and protect his family's livelihood.   Henry and Mercy have both been warned to stay far away from each other as Stockton's and Dearborne's do not intermingle.

In spite of the warning it seems as Henry and Mercy keep ending up toghether and soon they must come together to find a way to create peace for both of their family and the well being of the whole town.

***Thanks to booklookbloggers.com for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

A Chance At Forever - A Book Review

Mercy McClain works at a local orphanage in Teaville, Kansas with her brother and sister in law.  As a child Mercy was bullied by a boy in school for a physical deformity that she has.  She is determined to protect the children of Teaville against the same kind of treatment.

When Aaron comes to town and applies for a job as a teacher, Mercy soon realizes that it is the man who bullied her as a child.  She is able to delay the school boards decision, but Aaron is soon employed at the orphanage as he awaits the decision.  Mercy can't believe that Aaron has changed.  Little does she know, that he has given his life to God and is trying to make restitution to all the people in Teaville he hurt as a child.

Will Mercy ever be able to forgive and forget? Has he really changed or is he still the same old mean bully?  So much of Aaron's future lies in Mercy's hand, but he will have to prove himself worthy of her trust.

What a beautiful story this is!  I fell in love with both of the characters.  They are so relateable.  Mercy has so many insecurities plus she is holding on to some past hurts and struggling with forgiveness.  Aaron battles his past.  It seems to haunt him at times, but he is doing his best to change.  I love that he tries to make everything right.  Forgiveness is easy, restitution sometimes is not, but when God gives forgiveness we need to seek forgiveness from those we have wronged as well.

This is such a heartwarming story and one that I will read again!  I can't wait to read more from this author!

***Thanks to Bethany House Publishing for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

A Light On The Hill - Book Review

A Light On The Hill by Connilyn Cossette is the first book in the Cities of Refuge series.  This is the first book I have read by this author and I am an instant fan.  This is the best biblical fiction book I have ever read.  I did not want to stop reading and several nights I lost sleep because I just could not put it down.

The story is about Moriyah, a fictional character, but it is surrounded by true biblical events. I absolutely loved this.  Sometimes when I read a biblical fiction story that revolves around a beloved Bible character I have trouble with the story being changed.  With this being a fictional character it made it so much more enjoyable for me.  I did not feel like it was veering from the Bible, but instead brought greater light to the culture and what life was like during that time period.

As a young girl Moriyah was branded during the battle of Jericho.  She now wears a veil to cover the scar that brands her a prostitute.  Although, nothing physical ever happened she is still viewed as a bad women.  This leaves her without any prospects for marriage.  Her father changes that, when he offers his vineyard in exchange for his daughter's hand in marriage.  After an unthinkable event that forces Moriyah to flee for her life, she finds solace in a very unlikely source.  This story is about Moriyah's journey to one of the Levitical cities of refuge.

I seriously cannot say enough good things about this book.  It is going on my shelf of favorites and I'm already looking forward to reading it again.  I can't wait for the next book in this series!

***Thanks to Bethany House Publishing for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Gardener's Log Book: A Five Year Planner

On of the most enjoyable things for me is gardening.  At the first sign of spring (and sometimes earlier) I begin planning what I will plant as soon as it's warm enough. I've always kept notes on how many tomato plants I get, how many rows of corn, etc. 

I was really excited for the opportunity to review A Gardener's Log Book.  It's a Five year gardening planner in one spiral bound book.  There are several things that really stand out about this planner.  For one, the cover is waterproof.  This is perfect for taking outside with you when you go to do your gardening.  It will wipe clean if you get it a little dirty.

It also has a place for plant names with a place to document bloom and harvest times throughout the entire year.

It is also divided by seasons which is nice.  For each season it gives reminders for planning, planting, chores, etc.

There is also plenty of pages for journaling and drawing pictures just the way you want to document it. 

The only thing I wasn't completely satisfied with is the size.  It's a medium size book and I would have loved it to be a bit bigger.  Five years is a lot to cram into such a small book.

Overall, I think it is a great planner and I would definitely recommend it for anyone who loves to garden.  Whether it be vegetable gardening, flower gardening or both, you will enjoy documenting your activity in this great planner!

***Thanks to bloggingforbooks.com for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Sibley Birds of Land, Sea and Sky Postcards

Whether you are a birdwatcher, art enthusiast or lover of nature, Sibley: Birds of Land, Sea and Sky Postcards is something you are sure to love.

The 50 postcards come in a very nice and sturdy box.  The box is so nice, with colorful birds displayed on front, that I will be displaying it on my book shelf.  The postcards feature original bird paintings by David Sibley.  They are in vertical format and rendered in watercolors.  Within the box they are divided by tabs separating them by type (sea birds, birds of prey, songbirds).

These would be great for mailing to friends and family.  You could use them as gift tags.  Or you can use them like I will...for inspiration in my own artwork.  I love to sketch and I plan on using these beautiful watercolor paintings as my inspiration.

This is a great set that I would highly recommend.  It would make a great gift or you could just treat your self to this beautiful set!

***Thanks to bloggingforbooks.com for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

If I Live - Book Review

If I Live is the third and final book in the If I Run series by Terri Blackstock.  I was so excited to get this long awaited book.  This has been one of the best suspense series that I have ever read and the way the Author wrapped up the series was perfect.

The story continues in the third book and we are still following along with Casey as she is fleeing the law.  She is wanted for a murder she didn't commit.  There are sever "dirty" officers on the force and they want her dead.  She is arrested and she has to fight for her life like never before.

You definitely need to read this series in order.  It is not meant as a stand alone book.  The good thing is that now all three books can be read and you don't have to wait for the release of another book.  That was the worst thing for me.  Having to wait.  Each book was so good I could hardly wait until the next book release.
I would highly recommend the whole series.  In the final book there were still a few surprises and a lot of action that keeps you turning the page until the very end.

***Thanks  to booklookbloggers.com for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

When God Made Light - A Children's Book Review

When God Made Light is a sweet children's  book that focuses on God's wonderful creation. More specifically when He created light.

The story is brought to you in rhymes, which is sure to keep your child's attention. The illustrations are bright, colorful and very creative.

It shares with the child the many things that can be done during the light that God creates. For instance, when the sun is shining you can "go skipping or flipping or down a slide slipping". When the stars are shining you can "sing songs around campfires, make marshmallow s'mores, let grandpa tell stories, wage flashlight wars".

To end the story there is a perfect timed message as to not be fearful of the dark and how the child can shimmer and shine and be the light that God made them to be.

This is the perfect book to include in your child's library or to give as a gift!

***Thanks to blogging for books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Phoebe's Light - A Book Review

Phoebe's Light is the first book in a new series by Suzanne Woods Fisher called "Nantucket Legacy".

After caring for her father for years, Phoebe yearns for an adventure of her own.  Finally her dreams are coming true as she marries Captain Phineas Foulger.  As they prepare to sail away from Nantucket, Phoebe's father gives her the journal that belonged to her great grandmother.

Phoebe soon learns that the adventure she craved is not so easy. She's lonely and disillusioned so she turns to the pages of her great grandmother's journal and finds within the pages a secret that can change the course of everyone on the ship.

I am huge fan of historical fiction and I love reading about the Quaker lifestyle so this book was a joy for me to read.  It has a dual storyline that jumps back and forth between Phoebe and Mary the great grandmother.  The characters are all well developed and I quickly connected with them all. What was a surprise to me was the twists and turns in this book.  I did not expect page turning suspense and was well pleased with the excitement of this book.

I can't wait to read the next book in this series!  Definitely a book to read if you are a fan of Quaker life and historical fiction.

***Thanks to Revell for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

A Passionate Hope - A Book Review

The Bible story of Hannah is one that is well known.  Her words "for this child I have prayed" are heard and seen all around.  They are used at baby dedications, whispered by mothers, hung as wall decor in nursery's...but have you ever thought much on the women behind the words?  Do you ever wonder what she was really like?

Jill Eileen Smith does a beautiful job of feeling in the gaps for us.  We know what the Bible tells us, but in A Passionate Hope we can read a fictional account of what the life of Hannah may have been like.  The book will transport you back to biblical times and you'll feel like you are write there experiencing the sadness, patience and hope that Hannah deals with.

I know that some people are hesitant to read biblical fiction.  I have read some novels in this genre that I was sorry I ever picked up, but that is not the case with this book.  I think it is important to remember that this is just a fictional account based on true events.  If you keep that in mind, this book will give you a deeper and better understanding of a well loved woman of the Bible.

This was the fourth book in the Daughters of the Promised Land series.  You do not have to read the books in order.  I haven't read any of the previous books, but I will definitely be checking them out now!

***Thanks to Revell for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Judah's Wife by Angela Hunt

Leah has had a hard life.  Her father is abusive and she has watched her mother suffer at his hands for years. When Judah seeks Leah's hand in marriage she sees it as a way of escape from her home life.  Judah's family is nothing like her own and Judah is a kind and loving husband.  For the first time in her life Leah has peace in her life, but that peace is short lived.

The king has decreed that all Jews are to conform to Syrian law or risk death for following the laws of Moses.  Judah's father resists the decree and he does so without shame.  He does not hide the families prayer time, or things such as circumcising their children. He does them open and without shame.  Soon war breaks out and Judah's father commands that Judah pick up his sword and fight.  Leah struggles with her husbands decision to fight.  All she wants is peace in her life.  She will soon learn that love sometimes requires courage and sacrifice.

I really enjoyed the first several chapters of this book.  I loved the story line of Judah and Leah, but after they were married and the fighting started it got boring and drawn out for me.  Those areas of the book seemed too long and detailed.  I know it was an important part of the story, but it seemed to consume too much of the story.  The love story of Judah and Leah was beautiful and I found myself skimming over a lot of the other drawn out details just to get to the parts that I found more interest in.

I did enjoy that this was a biblically based story with fictional characters.  I thought it was a really nice portrayal of history during that time period and the author definitely did some great research.

***Thanks to Bethany House Publishing for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Trade Your Cares For Calm by Max Lucado

Do you ever feel overwhelmed with worry?  Consumed with fear or anxiety?  Does it feel like you are not enjoying life like you used to?  If the answer is yes, then Trade Your Cares for Calm is the book for you.

The last month or two I have been struggling with many emotions.  There seems to be no good reason.  There has not been any tragic events that have happened in my life, but yet I've struggled with many sleepless nights and shed more than a few tears.  Trade Your Cares for Calm came at just the right moment for me.  It has helped me get my focus back where it needs to be and focus on things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous and praiseworthy.

Fear sees a threat.  Anxiety imagines one.

Don't start tackling tomorrow's problems until tomorrow.  You do not have tomorrow's strength yet.  

C - Celebrate God's Gooness

A - Ask God For Help

L - Leave your Concerns with Him

M - Meditate on good things

What I have in God is Greater than what I don't have in this life.

A lot of what is included in this book is snippets from Max Lucado's other books. It is not a long read.  It is broke down into 10 chapters that include topics such and worry, fear and anxiety, God's goodness, practicing Gratitude, etc. There are thoughtful questions at the end of each chapter that help you think through where your focus is and where it needs to be.  

***Thanks to booklookbloggers.com for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

The Masterpiece - Book Review

Roman Velasco is a rich, self centered artist who's artistry is highly acclaimed and sought after, by night he is know as "bird/BRD" and works in secret as he tags buildings with his signature marked graffiti.  He has experienced loss and betrayal throughout his entire life and has shut off his heart from everyone.  In walks Grace...

Grace has her own set of problems.  She lost her parents tragically at a young age, she made some poor choices and gets married to someone she thought she knew while they were both in college.  Soon after, Grace has to quit college to support her ill tempered husband.  When she catches him cheating on her in their home he announces he loves the other woman and leaves Grace.  Shortly after Grace deals with an unplanned pregnancy.  She decides to give the baby up for adoption, but as soon as he is placed in her arms she knows she can never give her precious baby up.  Struggling to make a fresh start Grace begins working for Roman Velasco as his personal assistant.

These two have a lifetime full of scars.  If there were ever more complete opposites these two are it.  Grace is grounded, Roman is reckless.  Grace loves God, Roman is an atheist.  Grace likes order, Roman's life is chaos.  Grace struggles to make ends meet, Roman has more money than he knows what to do with. The list goes on and on, but these two are drawn together by jaded pasts and what awaits them is a masterpiece of God's redeeming love.

Overall, this was an enjoyable book.  The story jumps smoothly between past and present so the reader gets a good feel for everything the characters have dealt with in their past.  Both of their stories are heartbreaking, and their was a sadness to the book, but the ending gives hope.

There were a few things I didn't care for in this novel.  They are nit picky things.  One example would be that one of Grace's church going, christian friends encouraged her to get an abortion.  There is also mention of drinking cussing and sex.  I realize that Roman is a rough character and this is how the author chose to portray the depth of his sin. The last book I read by Francine Rivers was Redeeming Love and although many people rave about the book, I did not care for it and felt it was too detailed in sexual matters.  So with that I was a little leary about this book.  Overall, I enjoyed it, but due to my own christian convictions, a lot of what she writes did not sit well with my heart.

***Thank you to Tyndale Publishing for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Coldwater - A Book Review

Cold Water by Samuel Parker is a dark and disturbing novel.  It is unlike any book I have ever read, but from the first page I was drawn into a story that was so well written that I could not put the book down.  I finished the whole book within two days, which I must add, included two sleepless nights.  I could not stop reading.
I'll admit that I was a little unsure about what I was reading.  Especially at first.  Being someone who only reads christian fiction, this book did not fit the regular mold of books I read.  It is published by Revell which is a Christian publishing company so I felt at ease knowing that they approved.  There is some drinking, bar scenes and smoking in the book.  These things are not glorified though and it did fit with the story line. There is violence and evil scenes that are NOT going to be for everyone.  I would definitely recommend this book for adults only.  There is no cursing or sex which is good, because that would have turned me away immediately.

There is no mention of God and I think that is why most people are questioning whether or not this fits into the christian category.  Mercy is mentioned and there is redemption and justice at the end, but the evil is still there.  There are things that happen in the story that are supernatural.  This was the part that I struggled with the most.  It was just too unreal.  I believe a person can be devil possessed.  I believe that evil can control a person entirely, but some of it was just not possible.  I may be reading too much into it, but I felt like that was were a lot of the symbolism came into play.  For me, this book made me think. A lot.

I think there is so much more to this story than what a lot of people are realizing.  It's deep.  I think there is a much bigger message than what meets the eye.  We live in an evil world.  If you don't believe there are demonic forces, you have not seen some of the things I have.

I would love to sit down with the Author and have him explain his thoughts on this story.  I'm sure I'm missing some of the symbolism and I would just love to pick his brain.  Sometime down the road I will read this book again and maybe get a deeper perspective of it the second time around.

I won't go into any of the details of the storyline, there are too many spoilers that would be spilled.  From the very first chapter it grips you and it's something you will have to experience for yourself.  Like I said though, this book is not for everyone.  I would describe it best as a thriller and yes, after reading it, I would say a Christian thriller.

***Thanks to Revell for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

The View From Rainshadow Bay - A Book Review

The View from Rainshadow Bay by Colleen Coble is an excellent murder mystery that kept me guessing up until the end.  It seemed the deeper I got into the story the more twists and turns there would be.

Shauna's husband died a year ago in a rock climbing accident.  Since that day she has blamed her husbands best friend Zach for the accident.  Now some of Zach and Shauna's friends have been murdered.  Shauna and her little boy Alex seem to be the next target so they move in with Zach for safety purposes.  They are forced to deal with what happened a year ago all while trying to solve the mystery of what is going on now.  Is it possible that all of the deaths are related?  Can Shauna forgive Zach enough to get to the bottom of this.

I absolutely loved this book.  It had the right about of mystery, love and faith in it to make for the perfect christian suspense novel.  I did not want to put the book down. The emotions that Shauna dealt with were so well written that you could feel her pain.  I loved, and was surprised, when the story started digging deeper into Shauna's past and this added to a couple added twists to the story.

If you haven't read any of Colleen Coble's novels she is a great author and this has been one of my favorites to date!

***Thanks to booklookbloggers for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Imperfect Justice

Imperfect Justice by Cara C. Putman is the second book in the Hidden Justice series.  Even though it is the second in the series it works well as a stand alone novel.

The police say the woman was a murderer.  Emilie Wesley knows they can't be talking about her client...can they?

To the world it seems obvious:  Kaylene Adams killed her daughter and then was shot by police.  Attorney Emilie Wesley knows a different story:  Kaylene would never hurt anyone and was looking for a way out of a controlling, abusive relationship.  Her death shakes Emilie's belief that she can make a difference for women in violent marriages.  Self-doubt plagues her as she struggles to continue her work in the the wake of the tragedy.

Reid Billings though he knew his sister-right up until he learned how she died.  he discovers a letter from Kaylene begging him to fight for custody of her daughters if anything should happen to her.  Not attorney in her right mind would support an uncle instead of the father in a custody case, but Kaylene's letter claims Emilie Wesley will help him.

Thrown together in a race to save Kaylene's surviving daughter, Emilie and Reid pursue the constantly evasive truth.  If they can hang on to hope together, can they save a young girl-and find a future for themselves in the process?

I really liked the overall story line, but I did struggle with connecting to the characters.  This book seemed to be lacking something for me, but I couldn't quite put my finger on what. I think it was the character Emilie that I didn't really connect well with.  Other than that it was okay.

***Thanks too booklookbloggers for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest reveiw.  

The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz

Have you started your 2018 reading list yet?  Do you have your #2018stack compiled?  If you are a historical fiction fan like me I have one you are definitely going to want to add to your list!  The Lacemaker by Laura Frantz will kick start your reading plan with a bang.

From the beautiful cover, the engaging story line, the rich historical detail, this book has everything I love.  This is truly my favorite genre and it's author's like Laura Frantz who make it so enjoyable for me.  When an author can take their readers and somehow transport them to another era and keep you guessing is truly a gift.  I've always been a fan of Laura Frantz, but I believe this is her best book to date.  This is one you will not want to miss!

When colonial Williamsburg explodes like a powder keg on the eve of the American Revolution, Lady Elisabeth "Liberty" Lawson is abandoned by her fiance and suspected of being a spy for the hated British.  No one comes to her aid save the Patriot Noble Rynallt a man with formidable enemies of his own.  Liberty is left with a terrible choice.  Will the Virginia belle turned lacemaker side with the radical revolutionaries, or stay true to her English roots?  And at what cost?

This is a suspenseful story of love, betrayal and new beginnings. Once you start you won't be able to stop.  be sure to pick up your copy today!


***Thanks to Revell Reads for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Oath of Honor - A Book Review

When it comes to suspense novels, Author Lynette Eason never lets me down.  Her newest novel, Oath of Honor, is the first book in the Blue Justice series.  It offers page turning suspense and twists and turns that leaves you guessing until the end.  It's everything I love in a good mystery novel.  I love suspense mingled with strong relationships and characters that you can connect with.

A murdered partner. A missing brother. Will Isabelle's silence protect those she loves . . . or delay justice?

Police officer Isabelle St. John loves her crazy, loud, law-enforcement family.  She knows they'll be there for her when things get tough.  Like when her partner is murdered and she barely escapes with her own life.

Izzy is determined to discover exactly what happened, and her investigation sends her headfirst into a criminal organization, possible with cops on the payroll-including someone from her own family.  With her dead partner's brother Ryan, a handsome homiscide detective, shadowing her every move, Izzy's head is spinning.  How can she secure justice for her partner when doing so could mean sending someone she loves to prison?  And how will she guard her hear when the man she's had a secret crush on for years won't leave her side?

I can't wait to read the next book in this series! I hope it continues to focus on some of the characters I've come to love in this book!  If you love edge of your seat suspense this book comes highly recommended!

***Thanks to Revell Reads for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Missing Isaac - A Book Review

Missing Isaac is the debut book of Valerie Fraser Luesse and let me tell you, she nailed it.  From the very first chapter I was enthralled in this historical fiction story set in Alabama in the 1960's.  The book is a coming of age story about Pete McClean.  Pete loses his father when he is only eleven years old.  A tragic farming accident takes his life and his good friend Isaac, one of his father's hired farm hands is there to help Pete through the trying days ahead.  When Isaac suddenly disappears, Pete is determined to find out what happened to him.  No one seems to know and even fewer seem to care.  When Pete can't find the answers he needs he sets off on his own to find Isaac himself.  He soon meets Dovey and much of the story is about their budding relationship.

I found much of this story sad.  Set in a time where there is still racial lines and segregation and young Pete is dealing with the loss of two important men in his life I found the addition of Dovey uplifting and enjoyed their friendship that blossomed into something more.

I will be watching for more books by Valerie Fraser Luesse and will definitely be recommending her to others!


***Thanks to Revell Reads for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.