Review: Long Trail Home by Vickie McDonough

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

Synopsis

When Riley Morgan returns home after fighting in the War Between the States, he is excited to see his parents and fiancee again. But he soon learns that his parents are dead and the woman he loved is married. He takes a job at the Wilcox School for the blind just to get by. He keeps his heart closed off but a pretty blind woman, Annie, threatens to steal it. When a greedy man tries to close the school, Riley and Annie band together to fight him and fall in love.But when Riley learns the truth about Annie, he packs and prepares to leave the school that has become his home and the woman who has thawed his heart. Will he change his mind and find the love he craves' Or will stubbornness deprive him from the woman he needs' Through painful circumstances, Riley and Annie learn that the loving and sovereign hand of God cannot be thwarted.

My Review

This was a sweet, enjoyable story. It alternated between the viewpoints of Annie, Riley, and the headmistress Laura. Each are struggling with fears and obstacles, but lean on each other for strength. I did find it hard to believe that Riley couldn't figure out that Annie was not blind. There also seemed to be an easy solution to Annie's dilemma- why couldn't Laura feed and board her in exchange for her work at the home- without the pretense of blindness? I liked the setting of a school for blind children and the compassion which was a major theme of the novel.

(Thank you to Moody Publishers for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

Review, Giveaway, and Facebook Party celebrating Hearts Made Whole by Jody Hedlund

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

After her father’s death, Caroline Taylor has grown confident running the Windmill Point Lighthouse. But in 1865 Michigan, women aren’t supposed to have such roles, so it’s only a matter of time before the lighthouse inspector appoints a new keeper–even though Caroline has nowhere else to go and no other job available to her.

Ryan Chambers is a Civil War veteran still haunted by the horrors of battle. He’s been given the post as lighthouse keeper, and the isolation where he can drown in drink and hide from his past is appealing. He’s not expecting the current keeper to be a feisty and beautiful woman who’s none-too-pleased to be giving up her position. They both quickly realize he’s in no shape to run the lighthouse, but Ryan’s unwilling to let anyone close, ravaged by memories and guilt. Caroline’s drawn to this wounded soul, but with both of them relying on that single position, can they look past their loss to a future filled with hope…and possibly love?

My Review

There are so many interesting things that I loved about this novel! The first being that the author doesn't shy away from portraying the hero as a doped and drunken mess in all his stinky glory, which provides a distinct contrast to the goodness in his heart and the strong, courageous man he truly is under his pain, fears, and doubts, and emphasizes the power of his transformation. We get to know Caroline and her own fears, flaws, strength and compassion through her relationships with those around her. She faces the injustice of her situation with dignity, sacrificing everything for her family. I loved the romance between her and Ryan- they strengthened each other and brought joy and laughter into what could have been a grim environment. Caroline is sweet in her inexperience with flirting and Ryan's teasing and banter lightens her worries over her family. Their chemistry together is intense as they experience the thrill of new love.

(Thank you to Litfuse Publicity and Bethany House for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

Don't miss Jody Hedlund's new book, Hearts Made Whole, a story of loss, forgiveness, hope, and true love set in 1865 Michigan. When Ryan's failings endanger others, he and Caroline realize he’s in no shape to run the lighthouse, but he’s unwilling to let anyone close enough to help. Can Caroline forgive the hurting man who costs her the role she loves?

Celebrate the release of Hearts Made Whole by entering to win an Afternoon at the Beach prize pack and RSVPing to Jody's June 23rd author chat party!

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of Hearts Made Whole
• A picnic basket set
• A beach bag
• Flip flops
• A beach towel

One second-place winner will receive:

• A copy of Hearts Made Whole
• A lighthouse journal

One third-place winner will receive:

• A copy of Hearts Made Whole
• A lighthouse necklace

 

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 23rd.Winner will be announced June 23rd at Jody's Facebook party. RSVP here!

Review: Nowhere to Turn by Lynette Eason

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

The day Danielle Harding takes her 11-year-old son, Simon, and flees from her abusive husband, is the same day Kurt Harding dies. A relieved Dani believes she and her son are finally safe--but in reality, the danger has just begun. When Kurt was alive, he took something important to a mysterious person. That person wants the item back and believes Dani now has it. As she and her son run for their lives, they have nowhere to turn, until she hires Adam Buchanan of Operation Refuge and goes into hiding. Unfortunately, she won't be able to hide for long . . .

My Review

There is an incredibly compelling jump-start to this book. It was hard to put down and I had to fall asleep with the lights on! Several twists and turns kept me guessing throughout the plot. Dani and Adam were great main characters and their freindship-romance developed in a believable way. The villains were realistically flawed, but still unnerving. This was a perfect suspense novel for me and I will definitely be reading more by Lynette Eason!

(Thank you to Revell Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

Wrap-up post: Clean Sweep ARC Challenge

Well, I didn't get all the books read on my list, but I did finish the following 11 books. It sure helped to have a challenge motivating me to get my reviews posted quickly!

 

 

 

Great e-book freebie and sale! The Vow and An Uncertain Choice by Jody Hedlund

Only $1.99 for the e-book of An Uncertain Choice by Jody Hedlund! Her books are always fantastic- this is a deal not to miss!

(Be sure to check the price since e-book sales are for a limited time)

Synopsis

Due to her parents' promise at her birth, Lady Rosemarie has been prepared to become a nun on the day she turns eighteen. Then, a month before her birthday, a friend of her father's enters the kingdom and proclaims her parents' will left a second choice. If Rosemarie can marry before the eve of her eighteenth year, she will be exempt from the ancient vow.

Before long, Rosemarie is presented with the three most handsome and brave knights in the land. But when the competition for her heart seemingly results in a knight playing foul, she begins to wonder if the cloister is the best place after all. If only one of the knights the one who appears the most guilty had not already captured her heart.

Get the e-book of The Vow by Jody Hedlund for free! This is the novella prequel to An Uncertain Choice.

(Be sure to check the price since e-book sales are for a limited time)

Synopsis

In this ebook historical romance novella by Jody Hedlund, young Rosemarie finds herself drawn to Thomas, the son of the nearby baron. But just as her feelings begin to grow, a man carrying the Plague interrupts their hunting party. While in forced isolation, Rosemarie begins to contemplate her future—could it include Thomas? Could he be the perfect man to one day rule beside her and oversee her parents’ lands?

Then Rosemarie is summoned back to her castle in haste. The disease has spread, and her family is threatened. And the secret she discovers when she returns could change her future forever.

This novella also serves as a prequel to Jody Hedlund’s An Uncertain Choice.

Review: Together With You by Victoria Bylin

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

When a Lost Child warning blasts over the mall's PA system, toy store manager Carly Mason finds the little girl playing with a stuffed rabbit. Something about five-year-old Penny Tremaine is different. An ex-social worker, Carly recognizes that Penny suffers fetal alcohol effects, and a piece of Carly's own past suddenly confronts her. Never again will Carly become involved with a client. The risks are far too great. But something about Penny--and Penny's handsome father--tugs at Carly's heart. Before she has time to think it through, she agrees to a much-needed job as a nanny. 

Dr. Ryan Tremaine knows he messed up his life. But this summer he will redeem himself. 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 is dedicated to his sink-or-swim list, a plan to reconnect with his children. The first step: recruiting 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

My attention was grabbed right off the bat when the background to Ryan's daughter Penny was explained. I didn't expect his character to be so flawed, but at the same time I admired his resolve and determination to be a better father and improve his family dynamics as best he could. I also didn't expect there to be such a huge focus on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. I definitely learned some new things in that regard. It was a brilliant move by the author to have a few scenes from Penny's point of view since it gave me a deeper understanding of her thought process. Carly could have come across as too happy and perfect, but instead she showed depth, compassion, intelligence, and even inner conflict. I felt like the emphasis on the relationship and interactions between the children and adults overshadowed the romance, and the foundation of friendship Ryan and Carly built was glossed over during the time lapses. That's not to say I didn't enjoy it, because I did- this book is excellently written, but I did miss that aspect of Ryan and Carly's relationship. The drama is somewhat gritty but the characters' reactions and struggles come across as realistic and true-to-life.

(Thank you to Bethany House Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

Review: In Firefly Valley by Amanda Cabot

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Marisa St. George is devastated when she is a victim of downsizing and has no choice but to return to the small Texas town where she grew up. Though it's a giant step backward, she accepts a position as business manager at the struggling Rainbow's End resort. The only silver lining is Blake Kendall, a new guest who is making her believe in love at first sight. But will her dreams of happily-ever-after be turned upside down when she discovers who he really is?

My Review

Like the previous book in the series, In Firefly Valley is slow moving, but in a relaxing way. I enjoyed all the characters in the small-town community. The personal struggles of Marisa were realistic as she deals with her issues of abandonment and anger. Blake and Marisa have great kissing scenes, and secondary romance between Drew and Lauren was nice. Strong themes of family, alcoholism, anger, secret identity, trust, grief, and forgiveness, and second chances make this more than just a light read.

(Thank you to Revell Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

Review & Giveaway! The Moses Chronicles: Bondage by H.B. Moore

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing!

Synopsis

A gripping, historical fiction account of the events that lead to Moses’s flight into the wilderness, The Moses Chronicles: Bondage will take you back to a rich period of history replete with scandal, strife, love, and hope as God prepares a prophet to lead His chosen people.

My Review

Amazing, epic, seriously can't wait for the next book in the series! I'm not often in the mood for Biblical fiction but I'm so, so glad I chose to read this one! Heather B. Moore never disappoints. This is the story of Miriam, Moses' sister, and her life as a Hebrew slave, daughter, and sister. She is headstrong but fiercely loyal, and attracts the interest of Caleb, who wants to protect her but doesn't understand why she continues to put herself in danger by watching the Egyptian royals (Moses and his friends). The story is also told from the perspective of Moses and his Egyptian mother which offers fascinating insights into his life in the Egyptian court, his compassion for the Hebrews, and the strength of the princess who raised him. The characters and setting are so well-written that I could easily envision the story in my mind and I couldn't put it down (words like intense and gripping apply here). There is action, drama, intrigue, romance, and while the ending of the book nicely wraps up Miriam's adventures, it's only just beginning for Moses...

(Thank you to Covenant Communications for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)

May 18th

My Book a Day

  Joy in the Moments 

May 19th

 Getting Your Read On

 Mel's Shelves

Fire and Ice

 May 20th

 Min Reads and Reviews

LDS Women's Book Review  

Heidi Reads...

Rachelle's Writing Spot

May 21st

I Am A Reader

LDS and Lovin' It

Bonnie Gets a Say

May 22nd

Literary Time Out

Why Not? Because I Said So

Rockin' Book Reviews

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Review: Somewhere, My Love by Susan May Warren

Pre-order Somewhere, My Love for only 99 cents! Release date is May 26th!

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

We’d all like to believe that there is someone out there, waiting for us. The perfect one, who is exactly the right fit. But sometimes the wait – and the fear of launching out to find that special someone -- keep us from leaping out in faith. From saying hello, accepting that cup of coffee, saying yes to a romantic walk on the beach.

Sometimes it just takes a providential moment to change everything. RITA and Christy award-winning, ECPA and CPA best-selling novelist, Susan May Warren brings you three delightful novellas about leaping out into the unknown only to discover that yes, somewhere, my love is waiting.

"This Little House of Mine"
When they said "missionary," Interior Decorator Ellen White expected, well, not the hot, tall, and sweet Paul Stoneman, fresh from the backwoods of some Russian village. And sure, she'll help him redecorate his cute missionary home. After all, clearly the confirmed, rough-around-the edges bachelor needs a woman's touch. But when she falls for him, she discovers that loving a man with a heart for God requires more from her than she's willing to give.

Paul Stoneman longs for a wife to share his life wife. Sure, he loves his life as a missionary, but admittedly, he's lonely. Beautiful Ellen White is exactly what he's prayed for - right down to her ability to turn his life into something beautiful. But Ellen isn't interesting in leaving the comforts of America for the rustic life of a missionary, right?

"Measure of a Man"
The last person Calli Deane expects to find trapped in an elevator in Siberia at 2.a.m is Peter Samuelson—the man who broke her heart. Besides, she has a life she loves now - as a missionary in Russia. But Peter is not the man she remembers, and suddenly, she has to take another look, remeasure the man she once knew. But can love be reignited, or will the fears – and mistakes – of the past drive them apart again?

"Proof of Your Love"
Investigative Reporter Justine Proof knows she doesn't belong in the small, backwater town in East Tennessee...not only is she a Yankee, and hasn't the foggiest idea what grits are, but she's pretty sure someone is out to get her. And yes, it might be because she's investigating a murder, but someone is making it personal. Certainly it can't be cute, but redneck, coffee shop owner "Wild" Pat Bells, right? Still, every time she has car trouble, Pat "seems" to show up, raspberry latte in hand. Is he a rogue meaning her harm - or a friend trying to help?

Patrick Bells can’t believe he heard a woman plan a murder into her tape recorder. And not just any woman – cute and sassy Justine Proof, a woman he’s been scraping up the courage to meet since the first day she ordered a raspberry latte in his coffee shop, the Right Cup. But Pat isn't going to let anyone get hurt in his town. . .

Justine has finally found someone she’d like to trust -- someone who has suddenly become more than just an early morning ray of sunshine in her life. But her suspicious mind stands between her and true love. She’s about to learn that trust is a choice, and that only God can help her make it.

My Review

This book is a compilation of three novellas Susan May Warren published early in her writing career. Each has a preface from the author describing what inspired her to write the short story and how it influenced her later writing. The first two stories have a heavy missionary theme, each with one of the characters questioning their path in life and what God's will for them is in regards to spreading the good news and serving in His kingdom. The romance is sweet but there are also some angsty-dramatic moments to spice things up. The third story has more suspense with a quirky journalist/mystery writer and the southern town she is trying to assimilate into. I felt like things moved a bit quickly and I was missing some details in the mystery that would have rounded out the story better if it had been full-length rather than a novella. I enjoyed the stories and while they are not as high quality as the author's current writing, I appreciated her perspective on missionary work in remote places.

(Thank you to the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)