Review: Christmas Bells and Wedding Vows by Jody Hedlund, Lacy Williams, Misty M. Beller

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

From bestselling and award-winning authors, experience Christmas on the rugged western frontier with three novellas filled with unforgettable adventures, enduring romance, and the timeless message of hope found in the Savior’s birth.

Claiming the Cowgirl by Jody Hedlund
Serena Taylor is hiding in Colorado’s high country to keep her son safe, and she knows the best way to protect him is by marrying again and giving him a father. Weston Oakley needs a wife by Christmas to placate his meddling family, but after being spurned one too many times in love, he’s reluctant to give his heart away again. When they agree on a marriage of convenience, both of them get much more than they bargained for.

Doctor's Snowflake Bride by Lacy Williams
Minnie steps off the train ready to become a mail-order bride, but she finds the well-dressed man waiting for her isn't her intended husband. The protective oath Jed took when he became a doctor doesn't cover stranded women, but he can't leave the beautiful stranger alone in a building blizzard two days before Christmas. When circumstances force them into close proximity, Jed and Minnie find that their growing feelings aren't convenient at all.

Marrying the Mountain Man’s Best Friend by Misty M. Beller
Two Stones, a Salish warrior accustomed to navigating between tribes and miners, unexpectedly finds himself summoned to the side of a dying friend in Virginia City. Sworn to honor the miner’s last wish, Two Stones agrees to marry his daughter, Heidi, but plans to take her to live with his parents. He’ll provide all her needs, make sure she’s safe, and visit her on occasion when his path leads him that direction. As they set out on the journey, their path is fraught with challenges that defy Two Stones' plans and reveal a surprising depth to Heidi's character. As they near the end of their trail and join the Christmas festivities at the Coulter Ranch, Two Stones begins to realize this inconvenient marriage might really be a Christmas gift he’ll always treasure.

My Review

I adore a good historical marriage of convenience story! This collection features three of my favorite authors, and I enjoyed each novella. The men and women are in circumstances that call for creative problem-solving, and forming a marriage bond strengthened their partnership to face the challenges before them. A strong work ethic is an admirable quality that all the characters shared, which helped make their match equally yoked as they take time to learn more about each other and deepen their affection. The first story by Jody Hedlund is especially romantic and is my favorite of the three. Novellas are a perfect way to give secondary characters from the author's other books their own story, and it's fun to see the characters we've grown to love as they encourage their friends and family on the path to love.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Review: The Tiny But Mighty Farm by Jill Ragan

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

In The Tiny But Mighty Farm, author Jill Ragan of YouTube’s Whispering Willow Farm teaches you how to turn a typical suburban backyard into a productive mini farm.

Backyard mini farming is about regular people who live in regular houses turning all or part of their property into a productive, high-yielding mini farm. Unlike gardening, mini farming takes a very deliberate approach, with the main goal being to grow as much food as you can with as little land and as few resources as possible. Everything is done with planning and purpose, rather than as a hobby. Whether your property is one-tenth of an acre, one full acre, or somewhere in between, there are so many opportunities to grow vegetables, fruits, and herbs in creative and high-yielding ways.

If concerns about food security and the rising cost of food have you feeling uneasy, or if you just want to play a bigger role in feeding your family and your community, starting a backyard mini farm is the answer. With Jill as your friendly and encouraging guide, you’ll learn how to grow food for your family and, if you want, sell part of your harvest for a profit. From discovering what kind of mini farmer you want to be to selecting the best high-yielding varieties and planning out and preparing your growing spaces, it’s all covered in these pages.

With Jill’s help you’ll learn:
- The best tools for running a successful mini farm (hint: a tractor isn’t on the list!)
- Advice on whether to grow in the ground, in raised beds, or indoors
- How soil health impacts the longevity of your backyard farm
- Whether heirlooms or hybrids bring bigger yields
- Ways to use structures like high tunnels and greenhouses to improve production
- The many satisfactions of growing food for others and how much money you can expect to earn
 

In the process of cultivating food, you’ll also be cultivating yourself, your family, and your community in the most beautiful and inspiring ways. With help from The Tiny But Mighty Farm, food self-sufficiency and seasonal, organic eating is an achievable goal. Big yields from a typical backyard is what a well-designed, functional mini farm is all about.

My Review

This book is packed with information that is encouraging and inspiring for gardeners, especially at the beginning of the process. There are so many decisions to make, it can be overwhelming. The author walks the reader through the pros and cons of various styles, and shares what has brought them success in their farming journey. Our purpose and motivation for gardening and farming is important, and will determine the choices we make and prevent burnout. I read the book from beginning to end, but it is definitely one that I will go back to and use as a reference as I establish my own mini-farm for our family.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Review: Satisfying Stitches by Hope Brasfiel

 

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Discover the creative satisfaction and stress-relieving benefits of embroidery while stitching fun, modern, vibrant designs such as flowers, plants, animals, landscapes, and celestial scenes.

Beginning a new creative pursuit can be intimidating, but Satisfying Stitches takes all the guesswork and fear out of getting started with techniques designed to boost confidence and provide relaxation. This easy-to-follow, photo-illustrated guide includes a review of the basic and inexpensive supplies needed to get started, foundational techniques, and step-by-step instructions for creating a variety of stitches. As your skills and confidence grow, you will find that stitches that may look advanced are quite simple, and you’ll be able to easily add dimension and texture to your designs.

The exclusive embroidery designs include a wide variety of motifs and patterns, such as houseplants, florals, mushrooms, butterflies, fish, landscapes, and sunsets, in a variety of color palettes. The projects are divided into three levels to match your confidence, skill level, and time.

While most beginner books don’t go beyond a couple of easy stitches, Satisfying Stitches takes the opposite approach, incorporating stitches that pack a big “wow” factor but are quite easy, such as fern stitch, wheatear stitch, thistle flowers, and woven wheel roses. Author Hope Brasfield offers tons of encouragement to beginners and beyond. You’ll learn to embrace imperfection, slow down, and enjoy the process.

You will also discover, as Hope did, that embroidery offers much more than a creative outlet. Focusing on something that requires imagination, handwork, and concentration can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Satisfying Stitches features:
- A wide range of attractive embroidery stitches that can be used to create any embroidery designs
- 18 original embroidery designs for popular motifs
- Detailed step-by-step instructions with clear photographs
- Troubleshooting tips and tricks throughout the book
 

So much more than pretty patterns, Satisfying Stitches offers an exciting opportunity to gain new skills, become a more confident creative, ditch the smart phone, and de-stress.

My Review

I appreciated the author's kind and insightful words in the beginning of her book about mindfulness versus a "corrective emotional experience." Creating and tapping into the artistic side of our brain can be a therapeutic exercise, but doesn't necessarily make it a mindfulness technique. The author prefers seeing it as "an experience that allows you to see yourself or a situation in a new, more emotionally fulfilling or productive way." Her reminders to be kind to yourself, learn from choices and imperfections, allow yourself to not finish a project, and work with what is available to you, allow the crafter to create without pressure or comparison. I appreciated the supply list was divided into two parts- must-haves, and optional extras. a couple of the extras I had not known about and am looking forward to trying out. The explanation and instruction for the different types of stitches are easy to understand, with clear photographs assisting. The projects are whimsical and fun, with florals, fruit, and plants in three different skill levels. They include all the patterns in the back of the book, and they are simple enough to finish in a relatively short amount of time, perfect for practicing the various stitches! A wonderful book for beginners that fosters enthusiasm and encouragement.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

About the Author

I’m Hope, an embroidery artist and teacher based in Tennessee.

Years ago, I earned a master’s degree in applied psychology and found myself working toward earning a PhD in clinical psychology. I dropped out of that program at year five, landing myself in a rather precarious emotional place.

I began embroidery with just a few inexpensive and simple supplies, picking up projects in between barista shifts and sharing my progress to friends and family. Finishing something - even just a small embroidery project here and there - felt incredible!

I teach others how to do embroidery through video and blog tutorials; a monthly subscription box for hand embroidery; and, now, through a beginner-friendly book! I hope that my teaching can help you to get new things “stuck” in your head: that you don’t have to be perfect; that you can abandon projects that aren’t working for you; and that you can learn to have more patience with yourself.

Thanks so much for being here, and happy stitching!

Website | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram

 

 

 

Review: Heavenly Parents by Samantha Millburn, illustrated by Mckenzie West

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

 

Synopsis

Introduce your little ones to their divine heritage with Heavenly Parents, the first book in the Little Latter-day Saint Library board-book set. This engaging book features age-appropriate discussions at three different learning levels on topics such as our Heavenly Parents, the plan of salvation, and the power of prayer. Combining lovely illustrations with gospel learning, this durable book is perfect for tiny hands to cherish as children discover who they are, who their Heavenly Parents are, and what their purpose is here on earth.

My Review

This medium-sized board book is absolutely lovely. The illustrations are simple and beautiful, appealing to all ages. The concepts are also presented in a way that is easy to understand, yet profound in their meaning. This is the first children's book to include Heavenly Mother in its teachings, and it is done so respectfully. Each page's topic has a sentence that is basic for younger readers, and also a more in-depth explanation for middle readers. Heavenly Parents is the first book in the Little Latter-day Saint Library series, and all books follow the Church's Doctrinal Topics in Come Follow Me material and Seminary & Institute. This is a wonderful teaching tool to use with children and would make a perfect gift!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Don't miss the other books in the Little Latter-day Saint Library series . . .

Review: DIY for Renters: Don't Call the Landlord by Charles Byers

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

DIY for Renters is a complete repair and maintenance guide for everyone who rents—not owns—their home. It’s designed to help apartment and house renters perform common repairs and upgrades that are economical and safe, and don’t conflict with tenant/landlord agreements. Also included are tips on taking down and removing upgrades when it’s time to move out of the rental unit so you can get your security deposit back in full. Packed with step-by-step instructions, illustrations, and color photos, this book teaches basic repair skills that potential future homeowners can use for the rest of their lives.

Charles Byers, an experienced vocational school educator, shows how to address all the normal maintenance issues that every home encounters, from squeaky doors and floors, wet basements, and replacing light switches to installing ceiling fans, plumbing, heating, and electrical repairs. Byers guides the reader to complete each project as inexpensively and perfectly as possible, using readily available materials from the local home center.

My Review

This is a useful resource for home repair! It covers many basics, including drywall, painting, doors, electrical, plumbing, and large appliances. It was easy to understand, with plenty of photographs demonstrating just what to do. I appreciated that each project was rated with a skill level of basic, semiskilled, or skilled, so the reader can self-assess whether the project would be comfortable for them to complete without assistance. Lots of helpful tips and information provide the reader with the knowledge to handle home repairs with confidence. A great tool for renters!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Review: The Beginner's Guide to Hand Building by Sunshine Cobb

My rating: 2 stars / It was okay

Synopsis

Join the home pottery revolution!

Whether you have access to a communal studio or not, hand building projects can travel just about anywhere. Take your clay outside or work at the kitchen table, with instruction from best-selling ceramics author Sunshine Cobb. In this book, you’ll find all the necessary fundamentals, including a thorough discussion of clay as well as helpful tips for keeping your body and mind in top shape. Then pick the path that’s right for you in the chapters that follow.

Develop new skills and unlock your own creativity as you explore:

- Sculptural projects like miniature animals and plants.
- Functional items like scoops, a citrus reamer, and a coffee pour-over vessel.
- Mixed media projects including a candlestick holder, mobile, and a soap dish. 

 

All along the way, skill-building is front and center, with conversational instructions and tips to help you make pieces you’re proud to show off. Gallery work from some of today’s top artists are sure to inspire potters of all levels. What will you make first?

For beginners and those returning to ceramics, the Essential Ceramics Skills series from Quarry Books offer the fundamentals along with fresh, contemporary, and simple projects that build skills progressively.

My Review

This book was interesting, but not what I was expecting. The artist's approach in the Body and Mind section at the beginning was a bit negative, and didn't bring a great vibe for the rest of the book. The technical information was helpful and accurate to what I had learned in my college ceramics classes many years ago. I appreciated the refresher and this part will be the most helpful to beginners. I found the artist's style rough and ready, and her examples and tutorials didn't inspire me with my own ideas. I liked that there are some pages with creations from other artists, and the variety helped showcase a wider range of styles.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Review: Mail-Order Mishaps by Susan Page Davis, Linda Ford, Vickie McDonough, Erica Vetsch

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Dreams of Finding Mr. Right Go Wrong in the Old West
 
The Bride’s Dilemma by Susan Page Davis
Eve Martin arrives in Cheyenne to learn that man she came to marry is in jail, accused of a violent murder. Should she get on the next eastbound train, or has God brought her here to help save Caleb Blair’s life?
 
Romancing the Rancher by Linda Ford
Amelia expects a safe home for herself and her niece as mail-order bride to Zach Taggerty. Only Zach has never heard of her, and the last thing he needs is more complications in his life.
 
The Marriage Sham by Vickie McDonough
Mail-order bride Zola Bryant is devastated. Her newlywed husband is dead. But even worse, they were never truly married because the man who wed them was an outlaw not a preacher. What will she do now that her life and reputation are in tatters?
 
The Galway Girl by Erica Vetsch
A mail-order mix-up sends Irish lass Maeve O’Reilly to the Swedish community of Lindsborg, Kansas. Will Kaspar Sandberg consider it a happy accident or a disaster to be rectified as soon as possible?

My Review

The Bride’s Dilemma by Susan Page Davis - 4 stars

I love how determined Eve is to exonerate Caleb, and the way she reaches out to the townspeople to help their friend. A good story but a bit lacking in romance.

Romancing the Rancher by Linda Ford - 4 stars

It was hard to figure out who wrote the letters for Zach, since they were so specific to his family. He quickly sees how Amelia fits right in, bringing hope to his struggling family.

The Marriage Sham by Vickie McDonough - 4 stars

I felt bad for Zola and the way she was betrayed by the man who was supposed to be her husband. The marshal who informed her of his death helped her readjust, and get to know another local man who needed a sweet wife.

The Galway Girl by Erica Vetsch - 5 stars

My favorite story of the collection, opposites Maeve and Will have great chemistry, even though he had a different bride he had been writing. Mishaps and miscommunication cause conflict and worry, but as each character decides who they really want, it all turns out for the best.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Review: A Heart Worth Stealing by Joanna Barker

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Little Sowerby, England, 1802

Miss Genevieve Wilde—a magistrate’s daughter and independent heiress—is determined to meet life’s challenges all on her own, just as her late father had taught her. So when her father’s pocket watch is stolen, she will do anything to get it back, especially when the local authorities prove incompetent.

Upon reading an advertisement in the paper, she takes a chance and contacts a thief-taker to find the watch. It’s a choice Ginny regrets when former Bow Street officer Jack Travers arrives on her doorstep. He is frustratingly flirtatious, irritatingly handsome, and entirely unpredictable, and Ginny wonders if she’ll be able to resist such a man.

But after Ginny discovers that the missing watch is just a small part of a larger, more frightening plot against her, she needs Jack’s help more than ever. To protect her home and her reputation, the two enter into a risky charade—pretending Jack is her cousin so he can begin his investigation, starting with the household staff. As they work together to unravel the mystery, Ginny finds herself falling fast for her charismatic thief-taker, leaving her heart in just as much danger as her life.

My Review

A mystery, plenty of witty banter, and swoony romance made this an unputdownable read! The characters are vibrant, and I loved their interactions and the humor woven in. Jack's undercover role as Ginny's idiot cousin was hilarious, and their bickering over investigative choices put them at odds until they figured out how to work together. The suspense increased as they realize the danger is greater than they believed, and I was glued to the pages as I tried to figure out along with Jack and Ginny the who and why. I adore character-driven romance, and this book was a perfect balance between that and an engaging plot. They added to each other rather than distracting, delivering a perfectly satisfying reading experience!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Don't miss the other Regency romances by Joanna Barker . . .