The Edge Of Belonging by Amanda Cox

 People considered him homeless because he didn't have an address of his own, but Harvey James would've been homeless even if he owned the turreted mansion off State Route 460.  To have a home, you'd have to feel as though you belonged.

Within the first pages of this book I knew I was going to love it.  The Edge of Belonging is a debut novel by Amanda Cox and if this author continues writing books as this one I can promise you that she will quickly become a favorite of mine.  I am going to be waiting (rather impatiently) for what she releases next.

The novel is a dual story line and jumps between past and present.  Harvey James (who was may favorite character) finds an abandoned newborn and for the first time in his life he feels a sense of human connection. The only problem is that Harvey is homeless.  When two people want to help Harvey find his way, he knows he must keep the baby a secret or risk losing the only person he has ever loved.  

Twenty-four years later, Ivy Rose returns to her hometown to oversee her late grandmother's estate sale, she soon discovers that the woman left behind more than trinkets and photo frames - she provided a path to the truth behind Ivy's adoption.  Shocked, Ivy seeks clues to her past, but a key piece to the mystery is missing.

There are several big topics addressed in this book and it was done with such elegance.  I could not put the book down and it left me thinking way after I read the last page.  I really can't recommend this book and this author enough.  This one is going on my favorites shelf and I will be reading it again in the future.

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

Something Worth Doing - A Book Review

 Something Worth Doing by Jane Kirkpatrick is a perfect example of why I love historical fiction.  This book was simply amazing.  I love a book that is not only an entertaining read, but educational as well.  The book is based on a true story.  I had never heard of Abigail Scott before and I loved learning about her life.  What a fascinating woman and I think that her story is an inspiration to woman still to this day.

Jane Kirkpatrick has written so many books and if you are a christian fiction reader I'm sure you are already well acquainted with her work.  This book was by far my favorite of hers to date and I can't recommend it enough.

In 1853, Abigail Scott was a 19 year old school teacher in Oregon Territory when she married Ben Duniway.  Marriage mean giving up on teaching, but Abigail always believed she was meant to be more than a good wife and mother.  When financial mistakes and an injury force Ben to stop working, Abigail becomes the primary breadwinner for her growing family.  What she sees as a working woman appalls her, and she devotes her lie to fighting for the rights of women, including their right to vote.

Following Abigail as she bears six children, runs a millinery and a private school, helps on the farm, writes novels, gives speeches, and eventually runs a newspaper supporting women's suffrage.   Something Worth Doing explores issues that will resonate strongly with modern women:  the pull between career and family, finding one's place in the public sphere, and dealing with frustrations and prejudices women encounter when they compete in male-dominated spaces.  This book will inspire you to believe that some things are worth doing--even when the cost is great.

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

 

A Dazzle of Diamonds Book Review

 A Dazzle of Diamonds by Liz Johnson is the third book in the Georgia Coast Romance series.  It works as a great stand alone book so no worries about reading the series in order.  It's what I like to call a "fast and fun".  No deep issues, just lighthearted and enjoyable.  There was several parts that I found humorous which is always fun as well.

"Penelope Jean hunter loved every wedding she'd ever been to.  Except her own."

Penelope Hunter loves her job as the events manager at one of Savannah's premier historic venues - until her ex-fiance walks into her office with his new bride to be.  To make matters worse, a scheming social matriarch is intent on seeing Penelope fired, especially if she insists on being seen with Tucker Westbrook.

Since returning from serving two tours in the middle East, Tucker has built a thriving security company.  His work is nearly as stabilizing as his friendship with Penelope, who has been by his side since childhood.  But when the lone candidate for county sheriff goads him, Tucker loses his cool and ends up on the ballot - and the receiving end of a smear campaign claiming the Westbrooks were traitors to the South.

To clear his name, Tucker and Penelope must joing forces to find the truth behind a 150-year-old lost treasure.  But the more time they spend together, the closer she comes to losing her job - and falling helplessly in love.

I love when a love interest starts with a friendship and catches the couple unaware.  Tucker and Penelope had a long lasting friendship and their bond was already very strong.  Such a firm foundation for building a steady relationship.

Even though the story was mostly present day, there was a bit of history as the characters relied on an old diary to help uncover a mystery.  This was such an added plus and made the book all the more enjoyable for me.  

My attention was held from the first page to the last.  A perfect blend of mystery, romance and faith.

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

Pearl In the Sand by Tessa Afshar

If you are familiar with the Bible you probably already know the story of Rahab.  If you are a biblical fiction reader you probably have already read a fictional tale based on Rahab.  Maybe even more than one.  So you may be wondering why you would want to read another.  I'll answer with two words.  Tessa Afshar.

When it comes to biblical fiction there are few authors that can weave a beautiful tapestry of a story like Tessa Afshar.  I'm not sure how she does it, but she has a way of bringing the Bible to life and in the process of reading a fictional account of a true biblical story I feel uplifted and encouraged.  

Imagine having a life so wrecked, so deep in sin, so full of heartache.  How can there be hope for such a person?  The story of Rahab shows us that hope is never lost.  No matter how deep in sin you are, there is room for redemption.  Rahab was a life transformed by the love of God and she is even in the lineage of Christ.  How awesome is that?  Just like us!  When we are forgiven, we are engrafted into the family of Christ and become part of His lineage.  

One thing I enjoy about biblical fiction is that it helps you envision a better picture of Bible times.  Through the story telling you get more connected to the characters and begin to see them as the real people they were.  

I encourage you to pick up this book and read about God's faithfulness, forgiveness and love.

***Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book.  All opinions in this review are my own.

A Life Once Dreamed by Rachel Fordham

A Life Once Dreamed by Rachel Fordham is a historical fiction romance.  The story begins with Agnes Pratt running in search of a new start.  There's a shocking secret that she must keep and starting over is the only way.  She settles down in Penance, a rugged town of miners and lumberjacks.  She is now known as Miss Aggie, a respected schoolteacher and what many view as an old maid.  She loves her new life and after six years, it seems like her past is just that, in the past. 

When a new doctor comes to town everyone is anxious to find him a bride.  The townspeople are pushing him, and also pushing Miss Aggie.  When Aggie finally meets this new doctor she discovers that it is James, her childhood friend and former sweetheart.  The new simple and carefree life Aggie has obtained is now flipped upside down.  James just wants to find out why Agnes left him and the dreams they were creating for themselves, but he is the one person that Agnes is determined to keep her secret from.

Where You Come From Matters Far Less than Where You're Going

This is such an engaging story that is beautifully written.  Oh, how my heart hurt for Agnes.  Such a sweet character with a sacrificial love.  The friendship between her and James is so strong and the romantic pull is undeniable.  It touches on a tough topic and as you are reading it's important to remember that this is a historical tale.  The same issue today is not viewed in the same manner as it was in the past.  This book had me rooting for love to win unlike any other book in a long time.  

I loved the small town of Penance.  It was a perfect example of a small town where everyone is in everyone else's business.  There are several secondary characters that were so likeable that I really hope the Author decides to explore this town further and share another story on one of the characters.  

Rachel Fordham is an author I'm keeping my eye on.  She only has a few books out, but I've loved everything I've read so far.

***Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book.  All opinions are my own.

Acceptable Risk by Lynette Eason

 Acceptable Risk by Lynette Eason is the second book in the Danger Never Sleeps series.  Let me just tell you now, you won't sleep either.  At least until you finish the book.  It's one of those "I can't stop reading" books.  

From the very first page the mystery and suspense begins.  It starts when Sarah, a military journalist is kidnapped. Sarah is injured during the rescue and now she is back in the states where she finds out her father, who is a General, has ruined her career in his own feeble attempt to keep her safe.  What she doesn't know is that he has hired Gavin Black to protect her.  Gavin is just glad Sarah is safe and wants to protect her anyway so he agrees to the General's request.

Sarah learns that her brother who was suffering PTSD has committed suicide.  She also learns that several Army Veterans have committed suicide and she wants to find out why.  Is there more to this?  Was it really suicide?  It seems that danger lurks around every corner and could it be that someone wants Sarah dead as well?

There are so many great characters in this book.  Sarah and her dad are both so much alike and both complex characters.  Gavin was my favorite character and his intense loyalty to Sarah was an endearing quality.  

This is a fast read as it has page turning suspense that keeps you going until the last page.  If you are a fan of Christian Suspense novels this will be one you won't want to pass up.  Lynette Eason is one of my favorite suspense writers and this book is my favorite of hers to date.

***Thanks to Netgalley and Revell for providing me with a copy of this book.  All opinions in this review are my own.  

Her Secret Song by Mary Connealy

 

I have been a fan of Mary Connealy for years.  Her most recent series, The Brides of Hope Mountain, has reminded me why I love this author so much.  This is definitely my favorite series to date of hers.  It reminded me of The Kincaid Brides series which happened to be the first books I read of Mary's and what started me out as a fan.

Her Secret Song is the final installment of The Brides of Hope Mountain.  I have eagerly awaited to get my hands on each of the three books.  This third story is Ursula's.  

Ursula has been living deep in the mountains, alone and bitter.   Her sisters may be embracing a new life but she refuses to let go of the fears and teachings that her grandmother instilled.  After a harsh winter Ursula cannot take being alone any longer.  She decides to risk it all and overcome her fears. She realizes it's time to go down the mountain.  What she doesn't expect to find is a severely wounded man.

Wax Mosby is climbing Hope Mountain in hopes of making restitution.  He was hired to drive the Warden family off their land and was even present when Quill Warden was shot.  He gets wounded during the climb and is pretty sure he has passed on when he sees a beautiful woman helping him.  She sings with the voice of an Angel.  

Ursula manages to get Wax to her mountain shelter and the two bond during his recovery.  When Ilsa, Jo and their husbands come to check on Ursula they are shocked to see the man who, in their mind, is responsible for running them off their land and shooting their father.  They all come together in a final show down over the family ranch.  

This has been such a fun series to read.  I would definitely recommend reading all three books even though the author writes in such a way they could be stand alone books.  But trust me...it's so much more enjoyable to read the whole story.  I was laughing out loud throughout and loved seeing the transformation of the three sisters.  Especially Ursula since she was a bit more set in her ways being the oldest of the three. 

***I received a complimentary copy of this book.  The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Under The Tulip Tree by Michelle Shocklee

Lorena (Rena) Leland's family has lost everything during the depression.  A matter of fact, it was Lorena's 16'th birthday that the crash took place.  She never got her celebration and her birthday has since been marked with the tragic events that changed the course of her once wealthy families life.  

Fast forward a few years, her family is still struggling, barely making ends meet.  Rena is an out of work reporter.  President Roosevelt has created the Federal Writer's Project for out of work writers and Rena gets a job working for the government.  Her assignment is to interview former slaves as a way to preserve their stories and history.  

Rena does not expect her life to be changed through these interviews, but when she meets Frances (Frankie) Washington, a 101 year old former slave, Rena's life is forever changed.  Rena's family is less than thrilled about her new job and she is beginning to see that racism is still a part of her world.  

The story jumps between Rena's present day life and 70 years prior as Frankie shares her story.  

It has been a while since a book had such a big effect on me.  I stayed up all night reading because I couldn't stop and tears were shed.  It is so beautifully written and at such a time where we are dealing with high racial tensions in our own world, this was a timely read.  

I was not aware of President Roosevelt's efforts to do this and I enjoyed learning that bit of history!  That is one thing I always enjoy from a historical fiction read.   I love when I am able to gain knowledge of real historical events.

 It also shares a great message of God's love and forgiveness.  I really can't recommend this book enough!

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this amazing book.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Stay With Me by Becky Wade

I don't usually read Contemporary Christian Romance books.  I tend to stay with historical or suspense, but ever so often I step out of my normal genres and pick up something different.  After reading Stay With Me, I'm asking myself why I don't read more books like this!  Especially by this author!

This book had me from the first page.  It is a beautiful story that deals with some really tough subjects.  Genevieve is a Bible study author who, after an ankle surgery, is battling an addiction to prescription pain pills.  After receiving an anonymous letter about her parents past, she returns to her hometown.  After a long night, Genevieve takes some pills and ends up asleep in the beautiful farm house that belongs to Sam Turner.  When Sam finds Genevieve asleep on his property, he can't seem to wake her.  He soon finds out her secret.  This is the last thing Sam wants in his life as he is still dealing with the guilt of his own past, but it seems as God has another plan.

Just about every emotion is visited in this book.  I found myself laughing in several places, frustrated in others, and also at times hopeful as well as saddened.  There is a family secret that two sisters work to uncover and I enjoyed the mystery it brought to the book.  There is a great message of grace and forgiveness and I loved the gospel message that the author brought out. 

This just so happens to be the first book in The Misty River Romance series and you better believe I'll be reading the rest of the series.


***Thank you to Bethany House Publishing for this book!

Love's Mountain Quest by Misty M. Beller

Love's Mountain Quest is the second book in the Hearts of Montana Series by Misty M. Beller.  It works great as a stand alone book, but I think you would enjoy reading them in order as this book continues on with some of the same characters that were in the first book.

Joanna has recently been widowed and left alone to care for her five year old son, Samuel.  Samuel is full of spunk and a regular little chatterbox.  Isaac, who came to Joanna's rescue is still drawn to her.  He is so concerned about her welfare and does his best to check on her, provide food for her and help when needed.  He would like to pursue her in a romantic way, but because of his past sins he feels he is unworthy of her love.

Joanna's friend is watching Samuel and they both are kidnapped.  Joanna is frantic and Isaac runs to her aid and the two of them head to the mountains, hot on the trail of the kidnappers.  As it becomes apparent where the trail is leading them, Isaac knows good and well where they are going...straight to the past that he wanted to leave behind.  All of his secrets will soon be revealed.  Can he find redemption from God and from the woman he loves or is his past going to destroy his future?

I did not want to put this book down!  It was so enjoyable.  Joanna is such a strong woman, who fights through her circumstances.  She also is a mother determined.  Nothing is going to keep her from saving her son.  Isaac is such an admirable man and my heart was so sad for him.  The burden of his past weighed heavy on him.  This was something that was very relatable to me.  So often we let our past sins keep us from living life abundantly like we are meant to once we are forgiven.

I am excited to see what book three has to offer.  I hope to revisit Joanna and Isaac!

***Thanks to Bethany House Publishing and Netgalley for providing me with the ebook.