Sisterchicks Do The Hula

 

About The Book:  Some dreams take a while before they come true. Best friends Hope and Laurie never made it to Hawaii during their college years. But when they're about to turn forty, the islands still beckon, and off they go - with an unexpected stowaway on board (Hope happens to be seven months pregnant). A little pineapple, a little sunshine, and a surprising little surfing lesson give these two sisterchicks all their crazy hearts could hope for - and more - as they enter the next season of their lives with a splash and with a beautiful vision of what God has dreamed up for them.Wherever there’s chocolate, there’s sure to be a sisterchick celebrating, and this trip to Hawaii is no exception. Best friends Hope and Laurie are on an audacious mission to commemorate their fortieth birthdays in style. Surfing and sailing, sushi and snorkeling—these two macadamia nuts from the mainland sample it all, unhindered by a surprise little stowaway.  

 

Definition of Sisterchick: Sisterchick n.: a friend who shares the deepest wonders of your heart, loves you like a sister, and provides a reality check when you’re being a brat.  

 

Story Behind the Book:  We lived in Hawai’i when our son was in elementary school and have returned many times for visits. I have a deep and abiding love for all that is Hawaiian so of course the islands were my location of choice for this second Sisterchick novel. The art of hula is an intricate form of storytelling has gone through many changes over the years. Every woman’s life has a story. Every woman goes through many changes over the years. But not every woman has yet learned to "hula". This book will encourage her to "hula" through life as she learns to live out her story with the unforced rhythm of grace.

 

About The Author:  Robin Jones Gunn is the best selling Christian author of over 82 books including several series aimed at teen girls as well as Christian fiction for older women and a few non-fiction books. Her books have sold over 4.5 million copies worldwide.

 

My Thoughts On The Book:  This book could have been about me and my best friend.  I found it to be an easy read that was just a simple feel good story.  I enjoyed their trip to Hawaii and felt as if the perfectness of their trip mimiced my own when I took my best friend/sisterchicks for her fiftieth birthday As an amatuer photographer I was envisioning all the pictures they made and went to find my own album so I could see how I saw the island.  I really enjoyed the interesting historical tidbits the The author added . It made me want to visit Hawaii again.  This is an easy read that allows the reader just enjoy reading a book for the sake of reading.  If you have ever been a part of a sisterchick group, then you will understand what this book is all about. 

Statement of Disclosure: I received this book to review from Waterbrook Multnomah as part of their Blogging for Books review program in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to give a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Thanks guys for allowing me to review this book. 

Forever Friday

 

 

About The Book:  Every Friday, a postcard.  Every Friday, a love poem.  Every Friday for sixty years.  Adam Colby is just doing his job, sorting through the unsold Alexander belongings after the estate sale. He is unprepared for what he finds in an old photo album, overlooked by the bargain hounds and treasure hunters—six decades of postcards and poems from Gabe Alexander to his wife, Pearl. The mystery of the Alexanders’ love entices Adam, a man unhinged by divorce and puzzled by the depth of commitment that he finds in the unabashedly romantic cards.  Forever Friday invites you to travel back in time to the early twentieth century Texas Coastal Bend where a young couple—Gabe and Pearl Alexander—are swept up in a miraculous love. As the heartwarming, pulse-quickening story of their relationship develops through Gabe’s poems, the Alexanders reveal a new way to consider what it means to be truly devoted to each other. Could the secrets of their love affair, laid to rest twenty years ago, hold the key to one man’s future?  Want to read an exerpt?  (Click here.)  If you would like to view a clip on you tube click here.

About The Author:  Timothy Lewis is an author and playwright.  he has authored more than twenty musicals/plays.  In addition, he teaches a beginning novel writing class at West Texas A & M University and co-directs a summer writing academy.  Timothy is also a professional speaker, cowboy poet, actor, and sngwriter.  He drew inspiration for Forever FRieday from the postcards sent between his great-aunt and great-uncle over a period of sixty years.  He lives with his wife near Amarillo, Texas.

My Thoughts On The Book:  As a big estate sale lover I found this book very intriguing.  Many years ago my mom and I attended a sale, bought a sealed box, opened it and found a picture of two young women (one from the 1940's and one from the 70's), a series of letters to a man who was in the servie, and a picture of a couple.  The box was fascinating and we began to see if we could find the young girl.  A year later a salesman friend was visiting our house, I told him the story, he asked to see the box, and it turned out the young woman was his wife.  The couple was her grandmother and grandfather.  He died during WWII.  His story broke my heart and so did this one. Forever Friday is a great love story about two people who care about each other deeply. I couldn't put it down. It has a good moral and a great ending. I think this was an amazing book!! Lewis is quite a wordsmith and the book was well-written. Lewis provides his readers with insight into both Adam's life and the couple who wrote the postcards. I had the same warm fuzzy feeling I felt with Nicholas Spark's book, The Notebook.  I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a touching love story about enduring love.
Statement of Disclosure: I received an paperback copy of this title from Waterbrook Multnomah as part of their Blogging for Books blogger review program . I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own. Thanks guys for letting me read this and participate!

Prairie Song

 

ABOUT THE BOOK:  The first step in a challenging journey is often the one that means the most. Though it means saying goodbye to the beloved friends and spiritual mentors of her St. Charles, Missouri quilting circle, Anna Goben is certain that she needs to enlist her family in the Boones Lick Company wagon train. The loss of her beloved brother in the Civil War has paralyzed her mother and grandfather in a malaise of grief and depression and Anna is convinced that only a fresh start in the Promised Land of California can bring her family back to her. Although the unknown perils of the trail west loom, Anna’s commitment to caring for her loved ones leaves no room for fear—or even loving someone new.  During the five-month journey, trail hand Caleb Reger plans to keep a low profile as he watches over the band of travelers. Guarding secrets about his past and avoiding God’s calling on his life, Caleb wants to steer as far from Anna as she does him, but she proves to be just as he assessed her from the beginning— independent, beautiful trouble.  Led by a pillar of hope, the group faces rough terrain that begins to take a toll on their spirits. Will the wilderness of suffering lead them astray, or will the gentle song of love that echoes across the prairie turn their hearts toward God’s grace and the promise of a new home?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Over the last twenty-five years, Mona Hodgson’s publishing credits have grown to include nearly thirty children's books, contributions to more than ten books for adults, and four historical novels, including her debut, Two Brides Too Many in The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek Series. Mona is a popular speaker for women's groups, schools, and educators’ and writers’ conferences. She lives in Arizona with her husband and has two daughters and several grandchildren.

MY THOUGHTS ON THE BOOK:  Ms Hodgson did an outstanding job in the development of the plot and characters in this story. She had me from the first page and held me tightly in her clultches until the last page. The characters were so realistic that I felt as if I were traveling with them.  Hodgson brings the wagon train to life.  This story had it all.   There was some suspense, romance, hardships, history, and encounters with God. I cannot remember when I have enjoyed a story and liked the ending. I cannot wait for the next book in the series so that I can continue the journey with all my new character friends.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group as part of their Blogging for Books review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Though My Heart Is Torn

About The Book:  Gideon O’Riley has two wives—but he doesn’t know it.   Settling into a simple life in the majestic Blue Ridge mountains, Lonnie and Gideon O’Riley have finally found happiness after the rocky start to their marriage. The roguish bluegrass musician has fallen in love with his gentle wife and the God she serves, and Lonnie rests secure in his tenderness for her and their young son. A heartless ruse interupts their peace, bringing them back to Rocky Knob—and forces them to face the claims of Cassie Allan, a woman who says she is Gideon’s rightful wife.   As Gideon wades into the depths of his past choices, Lonnie is stunned by the revelations. She has no choice but to navigate this new path, knowing that surviving the devastating blow will take every ounce of strength  she has.  While Gideon’s guilt  and his bitterness towards Cassie threatens to burn up his fledgling faith, Lonnie wrestles to find the courage to trust the God who brought them together in the first place. Will their hard-earned love be able to conquer all?   Lonnie only wanted her husband’s love. Now that he belongs to another, can she surrender Gideon to a God with a bigger plan?

About The Author:  Married to her first sweetheart, Joanne lives in the mountains of Southern California where she keeps busy making messes with their home schooled children. When she’s not weaving Appalachian romance, she’s blogging about faith, writing, and the adventures of country living that bring her stories to life. 

My Thoughts About The Book:  This book is the second in the Cadence of Grace series but it is a stand alone.  You do not have to read the first book to get caught up in the second.  This book is one of love, disappointment, and God's grace.  It is beautifully written and bittersweet.  From the moment I began the book I could not put it down.  The characters are so real that you feel as if you are right there with them.  I could not put the book down from the moment I read the first page and was glad it was the end of my school year so I could stay up late and finish.  I had to know what happened with Lonnie,  Gideon, and Casey and I promise you that you will feel the same.  This book gets 5 stars from me and I cannot wait for the next in the series or anything else by this author. 

 Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomahs  review program for bloggers, Blogging for Books. I was not required to write a positive review. All they asked for was an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

 

Wishing On Willows

About The Book:  Does a second chance at life and love always involve surrender?  A three-year old son, a struggling café, and fading memories are all Robin Price has left of her late husband. As the proud owner of Willow Tree Café in small town Peaks, Iowa, she pours her heart into every muffin she bakes and espresso she pulls, thankful for the sense of purpose and community the work provides.  So when developer Ian McKay shows up in Peaks with plans to build condos where her café and a vital town ministry are located, she isn’t about to let go without a fight.  As stubborn as he is handsome, Ian won’t give up easily. His family’s business depends on his success in Peaks. But as Ian pushes to seal the deal, he wonders if he has met his match. Robin’s gracious spirit threatens to undo his resolve, especially when he discovers the beautiful widow harbors a grief that resonates with his own.  With polarized opinions forming all over town, business becomes unavoidably personal and Robin and Ian must decide whether to cling to the familiar or surrender their plans to the God of Second Chances.

About The Author:  Katie Ganshert was born and raised in the Midwest, where she writes stories about finding faith and falling in love. When she’s not busy plotting her next novel, she enjoys being silly and laughing with her husband, playing make-believe with her wild-child of a son, and chatting with her girlfriends over coffee and bagels. She and her husband are in the process of adopting from the Congo.

My Thoughts On The Book: Wishing on Willows from page one. This book was such  a heartfelt story about moving forward after loss and not letting fear hold you back from what God has for you. I felt as if I knew the characters and was part of their lives.  Ganshert is a master character developer.  Robin owns Willow Tree, a cafe she opened after her husband's death, and she is a single mom, raising a son she was pregnant with when her husband died.  Enters Ian who comes to town to scope things out for building condominiums. A major problem arises when the place Ian is interested in developing is where Robin's cafe is locatd. Sparks fly. But in the midst of it all, Robin and Ian's characters begin to develop a deeper relationship with each other....and with God.  I highly recommend this book and if you haven't read Katie Ganshert's first novel, Wildflowers from Winter, you might want to read it first so you can get the full story. Both books are awesome! 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group's review program for bloggers, Blogging for Books. I was not required to write a positive review. All they asked for was an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.


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The Winnowing Season

About The Book:  The tornado that devastated Kings’ Orchard pushed Rhoda, Samuel, and Jacob to make a new start in Maine. Are they strong enough to withstand the challenges of establishing an Amish community—and brave enough to face the secrets that move with them?
On the eve of their departure to begin a new Old Order Amish community outside of Unity, Maine, Rhoda Byler is shocked to discover that choices made by her business partner and friend, Samuel King, have placed her and her unusual gifts directly into the path of her district’s bishop and preachers. She is furious with Samuel and is fearful that the Kings will be influenced by the way her leaders see her, and not what they know to be true—that Rhoda’s intuition is a gift from God.  Jacob King won’t be swayed by community speculation. He loves Rhoda, believes in her, and wants to build a future with her in Maine. But when the ghosts of his past come calling and require him to fulfill a great debt, can he shake their hold before it destroys what he has with Rhoda? Samuel has a secret of his own—one he’ll go to great lengths to keep hidden, even if it means alienating those closest to him. Throwing himself into rehabilitating the once-abandoned orchard, Samuel turns to a surprising new ally.  Can the three faithfully follow God’s leading and build a new home and orchard in Maine? Or will this new beginning lead to more ruin and heartbreak?

About The Author: " Cindy Woodsmall is a New York Times best-selling author who has written six novels, three novellas, and Plain Wisdom, a work of nonfiction coauthored with her dearest Old Order Amish friend, Miriam Flaud. She’s been featured on ABC Nightline and the front page of the Wall Street Journal, and has worked with National Geographic on a documentary concerning Amish life.  She is also a veteran homeschool mom who no longer holds that position. As her children progressed in age, her desire to write grew stronger. After working through reservations whether this desire was something she should pursue, she began her writing journey. Her husband was her staunchest supporter as she aimed for what seemed impossible. She’s won Fiction Book of the Year, Reviewer’s Choice Awards, Inspirational Reader’s Choice Contest, as well as one of Crossings’ Best Books of the Year. She’s been a finalist for the prestigious Christy, Rita, and Carol Awards, Christian Book of the Year, and Christian Retailers Choice Awards.  Her real-life connections with Amish Mennonite and Old Order Amish families enrich her novels with authenticity. Though she didn’t realize it at the time, seeds were sown years ago that began preparing Cindy to write these books. At the age of ten, while living in the dairy country of Maryland, she became best friends with Luann, a Plain Mennonite girl. Luann, like all the females in her family, wore the prayer Kapp and cape dresses. Her parents didn’t allow television or radios, and many other modern conveniences were frowned upon. During the numerous times Luann came to Cindy’s house to spend the night, her rules came with her and the two were careful to obey them—afraid that if they didn’t, the adults would end their friendship. Although the rules were much easier to keep when they spent the night at Luann’s because her family didn’t own any of the forbidden items, both sets of parents were uncomfortable with the relationship and a small infraction of any kind would have been enough reason for the parents to end the relationship. While navigating around the adults’ disapproval and the obstacles in each other’s lifestyle, the two girls bonded in true friendship that lasted into their teen years, until Cindy’s family moved to another region of the US.  As an adult, Cindy became friends with a wonderful Old Order Amish family who opened their home to her. Although the two women, Miriam and Cindy, live seven hundred miles apart geographically, and a century apart by customs, when they come together they never lack for commonality, laughter, and dreams of what only God can accomplish through His children. Over the years Cindy has continued to make wonderful friendships with those inside the Amish and Mennonite communities—from the most conservative ones to the most liberal.  Cindy lives in Georgia with her husband, three sons, two daughters-in-law, and a new granddaughter."

My Thoughts On The Book:  Cindy Woodsmall has done it again! Every page is filled with characters that come alive.  I feel as if I know Rhoda, Samuel, Landon, Leah, and and Jacob personally.  I have not read one of her books yet that I did not love.  I cannot wait for the next book to hit the shelves.  Woodsmall shares faith, stories, love and life within the confines of the pages of her books.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group's review program for bloggers, Blogging for Books. I was not required to write a positive review. All they asked for was an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

Dandelions On The Wind

About The Book: "Tattered relationships and broken hearts, like a quilt, can be pieced together by God’s love.  When Maren Jensen took a job on Elsa Brantenberg’s St. Charles, Missouri farm, she never expected to call the place her home. As she grows to love Mrs. Brantenberg and her granddaughter, Gabi, Maren is transformed from a lonely mail-order bride-without-a-groom to a beloved member of the Brantenberg household.

But when Gabi’s father, Rutherford “Wooly” Wainwright, returns to the farm unexpectedly, everything changes for Maren. Despite the failing eyesight that caused her suitor to reject her, she can see that Wooly desperately needs to reconnect with the family he abandoned when his grief sent him running toward the army—and into the Civil War. She also senses there could be something more between the widower and herself, if either can move beyond their past hurts.   

Comforted and counseled by the wisdom of the women in her beloved quilting circle, Maren begins to discover the cost such decisions demand of her heart. Are her choices in obedience to God, or is she running from His plan? Is it too late for love to be stitched into the fabric of her life?"

About The Author:  “Mona Gansberg married Bob Hodgson in 1972, and became Mona Hodgson 40 years ago. They have two grown daughters, two sons-in-law, three grandsons and a granddaughter.

In 1987, Mona Hodgson began writing articles, poems, and short stories for publication, and has had several hundred printed in more than 50 different publications. Her publishing credits also include four historical novels for WaterBrook/Multnomah, nearly 30 children’s books, and contributions to 11 books for adults. 

Mona is a speaker for women's retreats, schools, conferences for educators and librarians, and at writers' conferences throughout the United States and Canada. She holds professional memberships in the American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America, Women Writing the West, Pikes Peak Writers Group, Christian Authors Network, and Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators.”

My Thoughts About The Book:  I love post Civil War era and mail-order bride books.   This novella was a wonderful story of hope, sadness, and new beginnings  Maren is a very strong and likeable character.  She comes to life on the written page.  Hodgson is a master at bringing her characters to life.  I have  enjoyed every Mona Hodgsons book I have read and look forward to reading the other two in this series. The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek, are wonderful books. This novella is no different. It has a strong Christian influence but is not overly preachy.  It draws you in and won’t let you go until the last event has unfolded.  This book is a must read. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group's review program for bloggers, Blogging for Books.  I was not required to write a positive review. All they asked for was an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

The Rocky Mountain Heiress Collection

About The Books:  Take a trip back to the nineteenth-century Wild West in these three inspirational romance novels, attractively priced and packaged as an eBook omnibus. Kathleen Y'Barbo's The Rocky Mountain Heiress Collection includes the rollicking romances of three amazing young women; an adventure-seeking heiress pretending to be a governess to go west, a feisty well-to-do society girl longing to become a journalist and chase the story of a lifetime, and the millionaire's daughter who is being asked to marry for the good of the family business . Fans of westerns will find themselves transported to frontier Colorado, and into stories with independent heroines, adventure, love, and ambition.
In the first novel, The Confidential Life of Eugenia Cooper New York socialite Eugenia Cooper longs to enjoy one last escapade before she marries banker Chandler Dodd. Opportunity knocks, and she heads for rough-and-tumble Colorado. When she takes the job as governess for silver baron Daniel Beck’s daughter, she wonders where her future lies. With Chandler—or with Daniel?

The second novel, Anna Finch and the Hired Gun gives us Anna Finch, who despite her father’s attempts to marry her off, dreams of becoming a reporter. A chance encounter with legendary gunslinger Doc Holliday gives her the opportunity of a lifetime, but Pinkerton agent Jeb Sanders is about to ruin everything. Though her father hired Jeb to keep her out of mischief, Anna’s inconvenient attraction to her hired gun only multiplies her troubles. She doesn’t realize Jeb has a score to settle with Doc Holliday, or that her association with the famous outlaw will affect more than just her marriage prospects.
Between her father’s desperation to see her wed and Jeb shadowing her every move, getting the story and fulfilling her journalistic ambition just got far more complicated than she ever imagined.

The final novel, The Inconvenient Marriage of Charlotte Beck is the story of an unlikely romance that sometimes just an inconvenient marriage away.  Charlotte Beck may be entering adulthood, but she can’t seem to keep to her stubborn, independent spirit from bucking social protocol. Fed up with her behavior, Charlotte’s father Daniel pressures her to settle into a nice marriage despite knowing she is set on going to college. Then Daniel sees Charlotte with the handsome but annoying English astronomer Alex Hambly, and everything changes.  Though Alex and Charlotte can barely stand one another, Daniel offers them a deal they can’t refuse: if they agree to marry, he will save Alex’s family from financial ruin and grant Charlotte the freedom to go to college. Reluctantly the couple agrees, but in private they plot to annul the marriage as soon as possible.  But when Alex’s feelings change and he refuses to dissolve their contract, will Charlotte find a way out of her vows? Or will
she discover that maybe this marriage isn’t so inconvenient after all?

About The Author: RITA and Carol award nominee Kathleen Y’Barbo is the best-selling, award-winning author of more than forty novels, novellas, and young adult books. In all, more than one million copies of her books are currently in print in the US and abroad, and her books have been translated into Dutch, German, and Spanish, to name a few.
Kathleen is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America. She holds a BBA from Texas A&M University’s Mays Business School and a certification in Paralegal Studies, and is a former member of the Texas Bar Association’s Paralegal Division.  A tenth-generation Texan, Kathleen Y’Barbo has four children of her own as well as seven bonus kids she gladly inherited when she married her own hero in combat boots (read about their real-life romance here!). Kathleen is proud to be a military wife, even if it did mean giving up her Texas drivers license.
My Thoughts About The Books:  When I began The Confidential Life of Eugenia Cooper I was afraid this story might be just another predictable historical romance. I am really glad I did not judge this book.  The story from beginning to end was delightful and completely captivated me. Gennie’s adventurous spirit is infectious and Daniel very interesting and when you added the sparks between the two this was the kind of read you don't want to put down.  The second book, Anna Finch and the Hired Gun was just as delightful as the first.  The main character was feisty and her spunk, coupled with Doc Holliday and Jeb Sanders makes this an engaging historical novel.  A must read.  The Inconvenient Marriage of Charlotte Beck is filled with delightful humor, vivid characers, a little tad of mystery, and a ton of romantic flair.  If you are looking for entertainment and an absolutely engaging read then these three ladies in the Rocky Mountain Heiress Collection are for you.  Kathleen Y'Barbo bats it out of the park. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah Blogging for Books Program. I was not required to write a positive review. All they asked for was an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

Wild Goose Chase

 

About The Book:  Most of us have no idea where we're going most of the time. Perfect. "Celtic Christians had a name for the Holy Spirit-An Geadh-Glas, or `the Wild Goose.' The name hints at mystery. Much like a wild goose, the Spirit of God cannot be tracked or tamed. An element of danger, an air of unpredictability surround Him. And while the name may sound a little sacrilegious, I cannot think of a better description of what it's like to follow the Spirit through life. I think the Celtic Christians were on to something....Most of us will have no idea where we are going most of the time. And I know that is unsettling. But circumstantial uncertainty also goes by another name: Adventure." --from the introduction.

About The Author:  Mark Batterson is the lead pastor of Washington, DC's National Community Church, widely recognized as one of America's most innovative churches. NCC meets in movie theaters at metro stops throughout the city, as well as in a church-owned coffee house near Union Station. More than seventy percent of NCC'ers are single twentysomethings who live or work on Capitol Hill. Mark is the author of the best-selling In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day and a widely read blogger (www.markbatterson.com). He lives on Capitol Hill with his wife, Lora, and their three children.

My Thoughts On The Book:  If you are looking for a feel good book, this is not it.  This book is a get in your face kind of book that makes you made enough to make some changes.  Batterson definitely challenged me to come out of my cage and chase the Wild Goose.  My favorite part of the whole book was the challenge given at the conclusion of the book:  "Quit living as if the purpose of life is to arrive safely at death.  Set God sized goals.  Don't take the easy way out.  Expand  your horizons.  Stop repeating the past and start creating the future.    (My favorite) Take off your sandals.  Blaze new trails.   Don't make a living.  Make a life.  Quit makeing excuses.  Chase the Goose!  Ready or not goose....here I come. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah Blogging for Books Program. I was not required to write a positive review. All they asked for was an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

Christmas in Apple Ridge

About The Book:  What a great way to experience the holidays with the Plain folk of Apple Ridge, Pennsylvania, in these three touching novellas centered around love, romance, heartache, and restoration from best-selling author Cindy Woodsmall.

The Sound of Sleigh Bells
Beth Hertzler is unable to let go of a past tragedy, but when she discovers a large, intricately carved scene of Amish children playing in the snow, something deep inside Beth’s soul responds. Determined that her niece meet the gifted artist, her aunt tracks him down, but it’s not that simple – will Jonah be able to offer Beth the sleigh ride she’s always dreamed of and a second chance at real love?

The Christmas Singing
Mattie thought her childhood sweetheart adored her until he abruptly ended their engagement on Christmas Eve. Brokenhearted, Mattie moves away and pursues her longtime dream of becoming a cake decorator, and even finds a new beau. But when Mattie is forced to return home three years later, will learning the truth behind Gideon’s rejection restore her Christmas joy – or open the door to even deeper heartbreak?

The Dawn of Christmas
Sadie enjoys her freedom away from home and her mission trips to Peru, but after four years, her Old Order Amish family insists it’s time to come home and settle down. Levi, a bachelor who distrusts women after a family heartbreak, also has no desire for romance. To keep their families from meddling in their lives, Sadie and Levi devise a plan—but soon discover that the walls around their hearts are breaking down. Can they let go of their prejudices, learn to trust each other, and embrace a future together?

 

About The Author:  Cindy Woodsmall is a New York Times and CBA best-selling author of ten works of fiction and one work of nonfiction, whose connection with the Amish community has been featured widely in national media and throughout Christian news outlets. She lives outside Atlanta with her family.

 

My Thoughts On The Book:  I read all three of the books in two day. All of the books are centered around Christmas and it really put me in the mood for the true reason of that season. The novellas all center their activity in Apple Ridge, PA.  Each novella is a story about men and women whose life circumstances must be overcome and dealt with.   Accidents that leave a person crippled not just in body but in spirit. A cheating fiance found out the day before the wedding and how many didn't believe the truth. Serious life threatening disease that causes a man to pull away from the woman he loves to protect her from the pain of loss. Parents with life threatening diseases. A young business that burns down because of the owners carelessness that causes her whole life to be turned upside down. But it is also about a community in Apple Ridge that pulls together to help, nurture and encourage.  You will fall in love with Beth and her aunt Lizzy, Jonah, Mattie, Gideon, Sadie and Levi.  Woodsmall makes all her characters come to life on the page.  While reading each story I found myself laughing out loud one minute and being at the point of tears the next.  If you love Amish books then read these.  They are amazing!

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah Blogging for Books Program. I was not required to write a positive review. All they asked for was an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

 

The Blessed Church

Robert Morris in his new book, "The Blessed Church" published by Waterbrook Press gives us The Simple Secret to Growing the Church You Love.
About The Book:  (From the Back cover): How can I help my church stay focused on its purpose?  What would a culture of generosity look like for my church?  What part does rest play in a healthy church?  Whether you are a pastor, a volunteer, or a church member, you want your church to grow well. After all, there's no better place to experience God than in the loving, healthy community of a church. But what does an effective church look like? Is it possible to grow and be healthy at the same time?

About The Author:  Robert Morris is the Founding Senior Pastor of Gateway Church, a multi-campus, evangelistic, Spirit-empowered church in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Since it began in 2000, the church has grown to more than 24,000 active members. He is featured on the weekly television program, The Blessed Life, broadcast to approximately 90 million homes in the United States and more than 200 countries around the world. Robert holds a Doctorate of Literature and serves as Chairman of the Board of The King’s University. He is the bestselling author of ten books including The Blessed Life, From Dream to Destiny, The Power of Your Words and The God I Never Knew. Robert and his wife, Debbie, have been married 32 years and are blessed with one married daughter, two married sons and three grandchildren.
 
My Thoughts On The Book:  As a pastor's wife and helpmate of a small rural church this book was a must read for me.  In the book Reverend Robert Morris shares his own firsthand experiences of the spiritual and relational excitement of a growing, dynamic church. In The Blessed Church, Morris brings you practical wisdom for cultivating real growth by nurturing true and Biblical health in your spiritual community.  When Morris speaks of "church" he is not referring to the building but to the people that make up the congregation. Wherever it is you attend "The Blessed Church" will help bring about a new healthy and vital church. In the six sections of the book we are shown the areas where we can ignite health: The Gateway Story, Blessed Vision, Blessed Shepherds, Blessed Leaders, Blessed Government, Blessed Church Culture. In the book we are walked through what we need to know so that health can begin within the body and spread throughout the church and into our neighborhoods. This book is a blessing and I cannot wait to begin the new year with a new outlook on what makes a church and how we can reach out to the people in our community.  Click here to see a trailor on the book.  You won't regret it.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah Blogging for Books Program. I was not required to write a positive review. All they asked for was an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

Project 365 - Week 46

Welcome to Project 365 - Week 46.  It has been an interesting week full of busyness (and yes I spelled it like I meant to.)  I have been busy....but what is new with that.  I am always busy.  This has been a fun meme and I am so thankful that Sara hosts it each week.  Want to see everyone else's shots then hop over to Sara's blog and check them out.  You won't regret it.

Sunday, November 11th - Veteran's Day (the real one)

Today I took pictures of the Towler family. They had not had pictures made together for a long time.  I set up a mock setting in my back yard for a contrast and had a blast.  200+ pictures later the sun was setting and I realized I was losing my natural light.  I hope they like them.  I will be giving them their disk next Sunday.  I know I am not a professional.  I am just an avid lover of shooting pictures.

The wind was obnoxious....but I had fun and I hope they did. 

 

Monday, November 12th-Veteran's Day Holiday

No school today so we went with Wayne and Amy up to my mom's house to begin the process of the estate sale.  I am thinking....the first weekend in February.  It will take that long to get everything in order. We brought some stuff back to the Red Barn Auction in Standing Rock and I got some stuff together for D. 

I never knew my little HHR was really a truck in disguise.  She was loaded to the hilt with boxes and furniture when we returned home to Rock Mills.  We unloaded and later in the afternoon rode over to Newnan to have a Veteran's salute dinner at Golden Corral.  It was a lovely day.  Thanks Golden Corral for the nice thing you did.  Frank really enjoyed it....and I cried through the song salute....but what is new about that?

 

Tuesday, November 13th

I teach Spanish and Monday night when Frank and I were in Newnan we stopped in at Office Max and I found this cute little Speedy Gonzales flash drive.  Of course I had to have it.  I did not open him until I got to school this morning.  I actually forgot I had put him in my purse.  I sat him on my printer and smiled every time I sat down at my desk.  Thanks Speedy!

 

Wednesday, November 14th

Last Friday night I was supposed to go to a Pinterest party in Prattville at one of Kat's friends house.  I was unable to make it but Kat got my supplies and on Saturday showed me what to do.  Here is my modge podged JOY letters.  I am loving this.  Kat and Brian and Frank and I are doing a Pinterest Christmas.  We have to have three gifts for each other.  This, of course, will NOT be one of them.  I am loving the crafting concept.  I also have the stuff to make some mesh ribbon wreaths.  I have made the red one already...can't decide which ribbon to use in it.  I am making it for one of our church members who loves them and everytime we go to Santuck gazes longingly at them.  I hope she likes my attempt at making one.  I am planning to make a few for Christmas gifts...and maybe one for me.

 

Thursday, November 15th  

Thursday is bowling night.  Our opponents tonight are the Jones family.  They own the bowling alley where we bowl and are an amazing team.  So tonight we just hope we can keep up with the Joneses.  Our partners, Jerry and Mae Lynn will not be here tonight so it will just be Frank and I getting our backsides whooped.  Sigh!  We did give them a run for their money and may have even won one of the three games.  Keeping my fingers crossed.

 

Friday, November 16th

Second round of the play-offs is tonight and we are hosting.  Mr. Reyes decided we needed to have a cat walk for the boys.  All the students lined the halls and it was exciting to see them walk through.  I have to work the game so Frank and I grabbed some dinner at Jim Bob's before getting to the field at 4:45.  We are playing Chilton County so the crowd will be larger than normal.  I am working at the Visitor's Gate.

 

Saturday, November 17th

I am part of a blogger review program and on Friday I got a book to review called, A Christmas Home, by Greg Kincaid.  If you are a Hallmark Christmas movie watcher (as I am) then you might remember A Dog Named Christmas from a year or so ago.  Mr. Kincaid was the author of that book too.  The book was so good and I just could not put it down.  So while I cooked for a Thanksgiving gathering this evening and went and had a mani/pedi I read the book.  I could not put it down.  If you loved the movie about Christmas you will definitely love this book.  It is a true Christmas feel good story.

Have a wonderful week.  If I don't see you again before next weekend then have a Blessed Thanksgiving.  Enjoy your family, friends, and each other!  I know I am going to....let the feasting begin!

A Season For Tending - Vol 1 of the Amish Vines and Orchards Series

About The Book:  In a community where conformity flourishes, seeds of Rhoda’s odd behavior were planted long ago. Can she cultivate her relationships with the same care and tenderness that she gives her beloved garden?  Old Order Amish Rhoda Byler’s unusual gift and her remarkable abilities to grow herbs and berries have caused many to think her odd. As rumors mount that Rhoda’s “gift” is a detriment to the community, she chooses isolation, spending her time in her fruit garden and on her thriving canning business.  Miles away in Harvest Mills, Samuel King struggles to keep his family’s apple orchard profitable. As the eldest son, Samuel farms with his brothers, the irrepressible Jacob and brash Eli, while his longtime girlfriend Catherine remains hopeful that Samuel will marry her when he feels financially stable.  Meanwhile, Samuel’s younger sister Leah is testing all the boundaries during her rumschpringe, and finds herself far from home in Rhoda’s garden after a night of partying gone badly. But Leah’s poor choices serve as a bridge between Rhoda and the King family when a tragic mistake in the orchard leaves Samuel searching for solutions.   Rhoda’s expertise in canning could be the answer, but she struggles with guilt over the tragic death of her sister and doesn’t trust herself outside her garden walls. As the lines between business, love, and family begin to blur, can Rhoda finally open up to a new life? And what effect will this odd, amazing woman have on the entire King family?

About The Author:  "Cindy Woodsmall is a New York Times best-selling author who has written six novels, three novellas, and Plain Wisdom, a work of nonfiction coauthored with her dearest Old Order Amish friend, Miriam Flaud. She’s been featured on ABC Nightline and the front page of the Wall Street Journal, and has worked with National Geographic on a documentary concerning Amish life.She is also a veteran homeschool mom who no longer holds that position. As her children progressed in age, her desire to write grew stronger. After working through reservations whether this desire was something she should pursue, she began her writing journey. Her husband was her staunchest supporter as she aimed for what seemed impossible.  She’s won Fiction Book of the Year, Reviewer’s Choice Awards, Inspirational Reader’s Choice Contest, as well as one of Crossings’ Best Books of the Year. She’s been a finalist for the prestigious Christy, Rita, and Carol Awards, Christian Book of the Year, and Christian Retailers Choice Awards. Her real-life connections with Amish Mennonite and Old Order Amish families enrich her novels with authenticity. Though she didn’t realize it at the time, seeds were sown years ago that began preparing Cindy to write these books. At the age of ten, while living in the dairy country of Maryland, she became best friends with Luann, a Plain Mennonite girl. Luann, like all the females in her family, wore the prayer Kapp and cape dresses. Her parents didn’t allow television or radios, and many other modern conveniences were frowned upon. During the numerous times Luann came to Cindy’s house to spend the night, her rules came with her and the two were careful to obey them—afraid that if they didn’t, the adults would end their friendship. Although the rules were much easier to keep when they spent the night at Luann’s because her family didn’t own any of the forbidden items, both sets of parents were uncomfortable with the relationship and a small infraction of any kind would have been enough reason for the parents to end the relationship. While navigating around the adults’ disapproval and the obstacles in each other’s lifestyle, the two girls bonded in true friendship that lasted into their teen years, until Cindy’s family moved to another region of the US.  As an adult, Cindy became friends with a wonderful Old Order Amish family who opened their home to her. Although the two women, Miriam and Cindy, live seven hundred miles apart geographically, and a century apart by customs, when they come together they never lack for commonality, laughter, and dreams of what only God can accomplish through His children. Over the years Cindy has continued to make wonderful friendships with those inside the Amish and Mennonite communities—from the most conservative ones to the most liberal. Cindy lives in Georgia with her husband, three sons, two daughters-in-law, and a new granddaughter."

My Thoughts On The Book:   I love the writings of Cindy Woodsmall .  She is a wonderful storyteller and a master wordsmith. This first book in the  Amish Vines and orchards serieswas fast moving with a good many twists and turns in it. I have to be honest and say that I was a bit disappointed when the story was not even close to being resolved in the end of the book. I like closure, yet I understand that there had to be some loose ends for book two of the series to line up.  This book attracted me as an herb grower and some who is interested in herbs for medicinal purposes.   I connected immediately with Rhoda and felt a strong bond bloom as her character began to develop.  Personally,   I was a little surprised at the amount of worldliness in this Amish community.  The Amish portrayed in this story were definitely not perfect and holy in every way, and were capable of making mistakes and there were a few who exhibited a mean streak where their Amish brethren were concerned.  I can’t wait to read the next in the series and hate that I have to wait so long.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers as part of their Blogging for Books Program. I was not required to write a positive review. All they asked for was an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

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The Girl in the Glass

About The Book:  Since she was a child, Meg has dreamed of taking a promised trip to Florence, Italy, and being able to finally step into the place captured in a picture at her grandmother’s house. But after her grandmother passes away and it falls to her less-than-reliable father to take her instead, Meg’s long-anticipated travel plans seem permanently on hold.

When her dad finally tells Meg to book the trip, she prays that the experience will heal the fissures left on her life by her parents’ divorce. But when Meg arrives in Florence, her father is nowhere to be found, leaving aspiring memoir-writer Sophia Borelli to introduce Meg to the rich beauty of the ancient city. Sofia claims to be one of the last surviving members of the Medici family and that a long-ago Medici princess, Nora Orsini, communicates with her from within the great masterpieces of the Italian Renaissance.

When Sophia, Meg, and Nora’s stories intersect, their lives will be indelibly changed as they each answer the question: What if renaissance isn’t just a word? What if that’s what happens when you dare to believe that what is isn’t what has to be?

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About The Author:  In her blog, Susan Meissner tells her readers that, "I write fiction for the restless reader. I love the power of story to plumb the depths of who we are and Whose we are. I post on the work-week's bookends — Mondays and Fridays. Most of the time."  Her blog is as enchanting as the story was.  Check her out at susanmeissner.blogspot.com.

My Thoughts About the Book:  I have been to the magical city Florence, Italy in my life.  It was one of those bucket list moments.  I went with my best friend and my daughter.  It was an amazing trip.  I was excited about reading this book and have to admit....was kind of disappointed at the beginning.  The book has a long and slow set up for Meg's trip to Florence and it is rather painful for her and for the reader.    There are several points of view in the book, Meg, Nora, and Sofia.  Nora's was a distraction for me.  The plot was somewhat tangled up with subplots.  As difficult as the beginnng was for me the story actually began when Meg landed in Florence.  Here is where the story unfolds, the mysteries begin and end, and the enchantment takes over.  I loved the book from this point on.  I felt as if I knew the characters.  Overall the book was well written and cohesively put together  without the father subplot.  The fact that the majority of the book was set in Florence delighted me.I felt as if I was visiting sites with Meg and Sofia all over again.   the Medici Daughter segment by Sofia Borelli attached to the end of the book was icing on the cake for me.  It made fantasy feel like reality.  This is a great book for a book club or discussion.  If you enjoy a lighthearted novel with a romantic twist set in a most romantic place like,  Italy, this is the read for you.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers as Part of their Blogging for Books Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

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The Widow of Saunders Creek

About The Book:  Corrie Saunders grew up in a life of privilege. But she gave it all up for Jarrod, her Army husband, a man she knew was a hero when she vowed to spend her life with him. She just didn’t expect her hero to sacrifice his life taking on an Iraqi suicide bomber. Six months after Jarrod’s death, Corrie retreats to the family home her husband inherited deep in the Missouri Ozarks. She doesn’t know how to live without Jarrod—she doesn’t want to. By moving to Saunders Creek and living in a house beloved by him, she hopes that somehow her Jarrod will come back to her. Something about the house suggests maybe he has. Corrie begins to wonder if she can feel Jarrod’s presence. Jarrod’s cousin Eli is helping Corrie with the house’s restoration and he knows his dead cousin is not what Corrie senses. Eli, as a believing man and at odds with his mystically-oriented family members, thinks friendly visits from beyond are hogwash. But he takes spirits with dark intentions seriously. Can he convince Corrie that letting go of Jarrod will lead to finding her footing again— and to the One she can truly put her faith into?

About The Author:  Tracey Bateman lives in the beautiful Missouri Ozarks which provide much of her inspiration for the books she writes. She has approximately one million books in print. Tracey loves to hear from readers and you can find her on facebook.

My Thoughts On The Book:  Bateman's writing was well done, sharp, and brings the story to life. She is a master with words.  This book reminded me of the Christy movies and her adventures among the mountain folk with their superstitions and traditions. Corrie had a great deal to adjust to when she came to Saunders Creek.  There were a number of very interesting and rare characters.  I've read several books dealing with ghosts, mediums, séances, and the like, but never one with this kind of Christian perspective.   This book was very Frank Perettieque. Very eye-opening for those interested. I definitely plan to read more by Bateman in the future.  I can't wait to read her again.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers as Part of their Blogging for Books  Blogger Review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Twice A Bride

About The Book: Love lost doesn’t mean love lost forever. Can unexpected romance deliver a second chance for two deserving widows? Full of resolve, young widow Willow Peterson decides to pursue her dreams to be an artist as she settles into a new life in the growing mountain town of Cripple Creek. When she lands a job working as a portrait painter with handsome entrepreneur and photographer Trenton Van Der Veer, the road before Willow seems to be taking a better-than-anticipated turn. With questions tugging at several hearts in town, including the Sinclair Sisters’ beloved Miss Hattie, change is traveling down the tracks as several unexpected visitors make their way out West. Will the new arrivals threaten the deep family bonds of the Sinclair sisters and the roots of love that are just taking hold for Willow? Filled with the resonating questions that all women face, this romance awakens hope against grief, love against loss, and dreams against life’s unexpected turns.

About The Author: Over the last twenty-five years, Mona Hodgson’s publishing credits have grown to include nearly thirty children's books, contributions to more than ten books for adults, and four historical novels, including her debut, Two Brides Too Many in The Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek Series. Mona is a popular speaker for women's groups, schools, and educators’ and writers’ conferences. She lives in Arizona with her husband and has two daughters and several grandchildren.

My Thoughts: This was a beautiful tale and so inspiring for women in a man's world. Widow, Willow Peterson is such a strong character and overcomes many obstacles in her life to find love again. This book was a lovely romance with a healthy dose of 1800's history. When I began the book I did not realize that it was part of a series.  Once I began reading Hodgson's characters all came to life and I felt as if I had known them forever.  All of the characters become part of you and I did not want to put the book down once I started reading it.  This is a great read!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Waterbrook Multnomah, s Blogging for Books program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”