Review: Ellie Claire Art Journals

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

The perfect resource to discover and develop your own personal style for lettering and illustrating your faith.

New from professional letterer Krystal Whitten! With guides, instructions, and tutorials, this is a fun and inspiring way to create beauty with words. It is the perfect place for journalers to practice Bible journaling, lettering quotes and verses, or decorating a page with original thoughts and plans. Exploring your God-given creativity has never been so rewarding.

My Review

This was definitely my favorite of the three journals because I really love modern calligraphy. I was super impressed with the quality of the book construction, the hardcover designs are embossed and the title is gold. The spine of the book is cloth covered with an elastic to hold a pen, and when the book is opened it can lay flat for a much easier way to draw and write. The two-page introduction is inspiring and encourages the reader/journaler to build faith through rediscovering creativity. Throughout the blank, lined, or dot grid pages for journaling, there are beautiful creations by the artist (full page and smaller ones in the corners), practice pages for tracing and freehand copying art lettering examples, and practice pages for basic serif and sans serif letters, script, swashes, flourishes, and banners. The paper is sturdy and smooth. I loved the fresh style and the lovely balance between energy and simplicity. Highly recommend! This would make a lovely gift.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Just as medieval monks brought the Scripture to life through intricate inked illustrations in handwritten manuscripts, you can now create your own masterpiece of color and design. Copy Scripture as a spiritual exercise or record your own thoughts and prayers on the pages. Your words and art will unite to create a keepsake that will be a treasure for years to come.

My Review

Fans of adult coloring books will enjoy this journal inspired by artwork from ancient Bibles. The color images throughout the journal come from the Museum of the Bible in Washington D.C. and the 40 black and white line drawings for the journaler to color are derived from those medieval designs. I appreciated that there is a source citation for each piece. The quality of the book construction is excellent, with an embossed hardcover and cloth covered spine which allows the book to lay open flat for easier writing. The pages are cream colored and sturdy with a slight texture that is ideal for using colored pencils. This is not a thin book, there are plenty of pages, yet it somehow doesn't feel heavy. This would make a great gift for those who enjoy ancient art and traditional designs.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Use this almost-lost art of illuminating letters to enhance your writing, Bible journaling, or sermon note-taking. Rich illustrated manuscripts in the Museum of the Bible’s collection inspired these gorgeous letters. Easy to follow instructions, practice pages, and encouragements guide you through the creation of amazing start letters, flourishes, and more.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Cloth spine opens 180º—takes lay-flat journaling to a new level
• Elastic pen loop on spine
• High-quality, non-bleed paper
• Uplifting, inspirational quotes sprinkled throughout
• Drawing guides, grid background practice pages, plus lined pages for journaling
• Ribbon marker, pocket, elastic band closure.

 

My Review

This creative journal is one that will be enjoyed by artists and fans of creative lettering. The introduction includes 4-5 pages of the history of illumination through the ages, described the process, and included a supply list for the reader. The creation of the traditional designs are shown in a step-by-step method which I found to be very helpful. There are designs for each letter of the alphabet, with two designs for many of the more used letters, as well as step-by-step practice for flourishes, birds, and other artistic elements. There are journal pages in between each layout of lettering with inspirational quotes that I found enlightening and appreciated that they were from a wide variety of sources. The construction of the book is obviously high quality with an embossed hardcover, a cloth spine that makes the book lay flat when opened, an elastic pen loop on the spine, and a keepsake sleeve inside the back cover with a ribbon bookmark and and elastic band to hold the book closed. The paper is sturdy and perfect for drawing and coloring as well as writing. This would make a fine gift for ages as young as 12 if they are interested in art and drawing.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

Review & Giveaway: The Truth About Miss Ashbourne by Joanna Barker

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Governess Juliana Ashbourne has dreams reaching far beyond the confines of her current position, hoping to someday establish her own school for girls. When she inherits a fortune from her late grandfather, she is shocked to learn that “someday” may soon be within reach. However, there is one condition: she must spend a month at the estate of Havenfield—with the very family who disowned her mother. Intent on securing the money she needs to start her school, Juliana accepts the invitation, vowing to guard her heart against those who shunned her all her life. But Havenfield is far from what she expects. She discovers a grandmother seeking forgiveness, a cold and disapproving aunt, and a painfully shy cousin. And then there is Mr. William Rowley. Though the heir to the estate is a merciless tease, Juliana finds in him a friend and confidant—and perhaps something more. As she struggles to make sense of her new place in the world, her stubborn independence clashes with a yearning to belong and the even more confusing desires of her heart.

My Review

Everything I love about Regency and romance came together beautifully in this debut novel. Juliana is strong but also vulnerable, and tries to protect herself from potential hurts by holding herself back. William is so fun and charming, I loved their banter and the friendship and romance that eventually develop. There are family dynamics that Juliana needs to learn to navigate, and she learns valuable lessons from them and her new circumstances. I loved the subtle humor that gave a lighter feel to the story and the relationships especially. Looking forward to reading more from this author!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

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Review: One Little Kiss by Kaylee Baldwin

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Tessa has her future planned to perfection. First get into medical school and become a doctor like everyone else in her family—despite her queasiness around blood. Second meet and marry someone who is just as successful as her brother—the new, handsome doctor in her ward will be just right. And last, prove to her brother that, despite what he thinks, she has it all together. Easy, right? Except that she’s just been called to be the ward road show director for the upcoming stake singles activity, a distraction she doesn’t need. And when a mix-up means that she’s partnered with her bug-eating, seventies dressing home teacher? It’s a disaster with a capital D, and she knows that no one in her family can ever find out about this.

As a PhD student studying insects, Henry White has had his fair share of girls try to change him into someone more socially acceptable—including his ex- fiancé. When his sister convinces him to join the singles ward for his last year of school, he decides to play up his oddness in order to keep the singles at a distance. When he begins to work with Tessa on the road show, he finds that she’s managed to get past his defenses. One little stage kiss is all it takes to make him question everything. But then his ex-fiancé comes home from her mission with one goal in mind: win Henry back, no matter what it takes.

Tessa is soon faced with a choice. Go for the perfect life she’s always pushed herself to have, or find the courage to look past appearances and figure out what she really wants.

My Review

This book was lots of fun to read! I couldn't help but like Tessa- flaws, mistakes, and all. She is misguided in her attempts to please and impress her family with a career choice and "perfect" boyfriend, but the dynamics of her family made me understand her choices. Like Henry, I just wanted her to open her eyes to follow the path that *she* wanted, but never allowed herself to even dream about. Her supportive friends balanced out the pressure she felt from her parents and complete jerk of  a brother. I really enjoyed her friendship with Henry, who also comes to a point of transition because of his relationship with Tessa. He's been hiding behind a facade of unattractiveness to repel women in order to protect his trampled-on heart, but Tessa quickly sees past that and appreciates the genuine and kind man he really is. Lots of drama (but not over the top) and angst, but the kind that has the reader feeling for the characters. The banter is fun, and the chemistry between Henry and Tessa is strong, making the romantic tension add to the feeling of anticipation as I read. Loved the ending!

Side note: The characters are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and there are some terms or references that may be unfamiliar for those not of the faith, but I think would not detract from understanding the story.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

Review, Author Interview & Giveaway: The Spinster and I by Rebecca Connolly

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis


Poor, unfortunate Spinster...

Prudence Westfall, spinster, has unexpectedly had the greatest misfortune of all: she has inherited a fortune, and is now an heiress. But as a Spinster, and a stammering shy one, nothing could be worse than having a bevy of suitors pay her attention. Opportunity strikes at a house party when the most unlikely person offers the perfect solution.

Camden Vale is no gentleman, and he’s not prone to saving anyone, but something about Prue changes all that. When his offer to befriend her extends beyond the house party, and his feelings extend beyond expectation, no one is more surprised than he. Except, perhaps, for the other Spinsters, and they have much to say on the subject.


My Review

I loved Prue! She is so sweet and unassuming, and I couldn't help but root for her as she deals with her new circumstances- a status that puts her in the spotlight of society and the focus of fortune hunters, and a formerly neglectful mother who now takes too much interest and the verbal abuse that comes with it. The support of her friends is invaluable and essential to her journey of independence and self-confidence. The personalities of the Spinsters are each distinct and vibrant, and I loved coming back to the dynamics of their group. Camden is so charming, but in a likeable way- not over the top. He sees past Prue's stammering for who she truly is, and their friendship and developing romance was a pleasure to read. Another lovely Regency romance from Rebecca Connolly!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

Author Interview 

Can you tell us a little about yourself? 

Sure! I’m an Indiana girl and just recently moved back (WOOHOO!) for a new job in orthopedic medicine. I’m a music lover, especially movie soundtracks and fabulous orchestra parts. Period dramas are hands down my favorite movies and TV shows, especially British ones! I drink hot chocolate all year wrong, collect blankets, eat raw cookie dough, and find sweats and hoodies to be the best clothing ever created. I teach 4 year olds at church, which is a riot, and love love LOVE being an aunt!

What do you do besides writing? 

Work! Haha, I work full time in the medical setting in an orthopedic department. I love to do anything with my family, even if it’s just hanging out on the couch and watching a movie. Long walks are fabulous, and, when I have time, I love to devour a good book!

Do you have images you can share that come close to how you picture your characters? Do you like to find visual inspiration for your characters before or during your writing process? 

Sure do! I love to find visual representation when I can. I usually start off with an idea, and sometimes that changes as I write. Or a new actor will comes across my path, and I’ll think,”Oh, maybe he/she would be better!” Here’s how I picture the main characters in The Spinster and I, Prue and Camden.

What are some songs that you listened to or inspired you while writing your book? 

Oh, this book had an AMAZING song for inspiration. I have never ever had a song be so perfect for a story. We All Need Saving by Jon McLaughlin. It seriously changed everything about this book. I also have selected songs from the soundtracks of Crimson Peak and Becoming Jane in there.

What message would you like readers to ultimately take away from the book? 

I want them to see the beauty in the deeper sides of these characters, to see how people can change, and to find value in the loyalty that these characters have for each other.

What can we look forward to coming from you in the future? 

Oh, lots! I have more in the Spinster Chronicles, a few more London League books, an exciting companion series to the London League, and an intriguing little series set in Cornwall coming in the next few years!

About the Author

 Rebecca Connolly writes romances, both period and contemporary, because she absolutely loves a good love story. She has been creating stories since childhood, and there are home videos to prove it! She started writing them down in elementary school and has never looked back. She currently lives in the Midwest, spends every spare moment away from her day job absorbed in her writing, and is a hot cocoa addict.

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Giveaway

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Review & Giveaway: The Gem Thief by Sian Ann Bessey

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Gracie Miller is a small-town girl who has landed her dream job in New York City. As jewelry designer for one of the most prestigious jewelers in the world, she completed a particularly stunning piece, a custom setting for a large pink diamond. But when her billionaire client Mrs. Katsaros comes to repair a minor issue with the setting, Gracie is horrified to realize it is not the ring she created. Someone has forged her design, and the priceless diamond is gone.

Mrs. Katsaros has no desire to bring media attention to the jewelry heist, so she recruits her nephew, Quinn, and his FBI agent friend, Steve, to do some sleuthing off the record. When they discover that the missing ring is just one of many forgeries in the widow's collection, they look to Gracie for help. They need her to act the part of Quinn's fiancée. From the lights of New York to the shimmering islands of the Mediterranean, Gracie is swept into a thrilling hunt. But amid the search for the elusive thief, she and Quinn find themselves increasingly distracted by their growing feelings for each other. What neither realizes is how close the danger lies and how serious the vendetta is—because, apparently, it is worth killing for.

My Review

This romantic suspense book was just my speed. The author did a great job of letting me get to know the characters while also jump starting the plot. Gracie has a pretty amazing job as a fine jewelry designer in New York City, but she is also down to earth and genuine. I loved the world travel and seeing it through the eyes of Gracie for whom it's a first time experience. There is a perfect balance between the progressing relationship of Gracie and Quinn, and following the mystery of who is behind the stolen jewelry and forgeries. Quinn is a high-powered attorney, but appreciates Gracie for who she is and learns to bring some more balance into his life. I loved Quinn's aunt and her compassion and generosity. It was neat to see her and Gracie form a friendship throughout the journey as they support each other's vulnerabilities with their own strengths. There was a steady pace throughout the book with various climaxes as they draw closer to solving the case and the attraction between Gracie and Quinn blooms into romance. I was glued to the pages and finished the book with a happy sigh :)

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions expressed are my own)

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Review: A Sparkle of Silver by Liz Johnson

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

Synopsis

Ninety years ago, Millie Sullivan's great-grandmother was a guest at oil tycoon Howard Dawkins' palatial estate on the shore of St. Simons Island, Georgia. Now, Millie plays a 1920s-era guest during tours of the same manor. But when her grandmother suggests that there is a lost diary containing the location of a hidden treasure on the estate, along with the true identity of Millie's great-grandfather, Millie sets out to find the truth of her heritage--and the fortune that might be hers. When security guard Ben Thornton discovers her snooping in the estate's private library, he threatens to have her fired. But her story seems almost too ludicrous to be fiction, and her offer to split the treasure is too tempting to pass up . . .

Get ready for a romantic escapade through dark halls and dusty corners that will have you holding your breath and sighing with delight as two charming characters get caught up in the adventure of uncovering the past and finding their way to an unexpected future.

My Review

A combination of an intriguing setting, enjoyable characters with a sweet romance, and a mystery to be solved through letters and journal entries made this story a memorable start to a new series. Millie and Ben both have elements of desperation and vulnerability with the issues they are dealing with, and it was fun seeing their relationship progress as they worked together on a journey of discovery. Millie's devotion to her aging grandmother hit close to home for me, and I thought the themes of forgiveness and faith in God's grace were powerful and inspiring. This felt like a dual timeline book because of the way the diary was written, (which I'm not a big fan of because I often feel torn between the two stories), but I'm still looking forward to the next book in the series.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)