Murder at the Mikado by Julianna Deering
Published by Bethany House Publishers
This copy was provided to me free of charge from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review of the book.
Another Great WhoDunIt from one of my newest favorite authors, Julianna Deering!
Murder at the Mikado is the 3rd book in the Drew Farthering Mystery series. I absolutely loved the first book, and the second was okay, but I'm back to LOVING Julianna Deering's mysteries! She writes in the same vein as old Sherlock Holmes or Agatha Christy novels.
Once more, just as Drew is planning to marry and settle down with his fiancee, Madeline, he is swept into an investigation of a murder.
This time, it's an old flame of Drew's, Fleur Landis, that asks for his help. She is now married, but her re-entrance into Drew's life causes friction between Madeline and himself.
Will Drew and Madeline's love survive the investigation?
And who would want to kill Fleur's friend, and leading actor in the theater production of The Mikado?
This book had me guessing and second guessing to the end. And, to my glee, I couldn't figure out "whodunit" til the end.
A satisfying read for this old fashioned mystery lover. :)
Friday, July 18, 2014
Death by the Book
Death by the Book by Julianna Deering
Published by Bethany House Publishers
Death by the Book is the second of the Drew Farthering Mysteries written by Julianna Deering.
Her first book in the series, Rules of Murder, was so good! So I couldn't wait to start this one. But to me it was just ok.
Drew is once again drawn into a murder mystery when he finds out that his family's lawyer has been killed and left with a bloodied hatpin in his chest attached to a note. When this happens again, with a person even closer to Drew, he tries to figure out who the killer is, and what their motive is.
To be fair, I wasn't able to figure out "Whodunit". :) That's what I like most about Julianna Deering's books.
Still, I couldn't wait for her 3rd book in the series. I will write my review on that next.
Published by Bethany House Publishers
Death by the Book is the second of the Drew Farthering Mysteries written by Julianna Deering.
Her first book in the series, Rules of Murder, was so good! So I couldn't wait to start this one. But to me it was just ok.
Drew is once again drawn into a murder mystery when he finds out that his family's lawyer has been killed and left with a bloodied hatpin in his chest attached to a note. When this happens again, with a person even closer to Drew, he tries to figure out who the killer is, and what their motive is.
To be fair, I wasn't able to figure out "Whodunit". :) That's what I like most about Julianna Deering's books.
Still, I couldn't wait for her 3rd book in the series. I will write my review on that next.
Friday, January 3, 2014
Rules of Murder
Rules of Murder by Julianna Deering
Published by Bethany House Publishers
Rules of Murder was provided to me free of charge by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review of the book, and promise to post it on my blog as well as another retail site.
I've got to tell you, I enjoyed Rules of Murder more than any book I've read in a long time. What a fun mystery! It was written in the same style as my old favorite authors like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes Mysteries, and Agatha Christie's mysteries. :)
Rules of Murder introduces Drew Farthering - a mystery novel loving man living in the 1920's in England. He decides to use his sleuthing skills he's acquired from reading his stacks of mysteries to solve a crime committed on his own estate.
With a little humor, a little romance, and a lot of heart, this book grabbed me from the beginning and made it so hard to put down. I can't wait for Julianna Deering's next book!!!
Another 5 star award from Tammi !
Published by Bethany House Publishers
Rules of Murder was provided to me free of charge by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review of the book, and promise to post it on my blog as well as another retail site.
I've got to tell you, I enjoyed Rules of Murder more than any book I've read in a long time. What a fun mystery! It was written in the same style as my old favorite authors like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes Mysteries, and Agatha Christie's mysteries. :)
Rules of Murder introduces Drew Farthering - a mystery novel loving man living in the 1920's in England. He decides to use his sleuthing skills he's acquired from reading his stacks of mysteries to solve a crime committed on his own estate.
With a little humor, a little romance, and a lot of heart, this book grabbed me from the beginning and made it so hard to put down. I can't wait for Julianna Deering's next book!!!
Another 5 star award from Tammi !
Shattered
Shattered by Dani Pettrey
Published by Bethany House Publishers
Shattered was provided to me free of charge by Bethany House Publishers in agreement that I provide my honest review of the book and publish that review.
Shattered is the second book in Dani Pettry's Alaskan Courage Series. I wanted to read it because I enjoyed the first book - Submerged - but found I did not care for this book as much as I had hoped I would.
I like the character - Piper - and am impressed with her loyalty to her "prodigal" brother. But it seemed to me that the story dragged on more than it needed to.
I'll read more of Pettrey's books, to see how the family fares, but don't think I'll have to run out the day they're released to buy them.
Published by Bethany House Publishers
Shattered was provided to me free of charge by Bethany House Publishers in agreement that I provide my honest review of the book and publish that review.
Shattered is the second book in Dani Pettry's Alaskan Courage Series. I wanted to read it because I enjoyed the first book - Submerged - but found I did not care for this book as much as I had hoped I would.
I like the character - Piper - and am impressed with her loyalty to her "prodigal" brother. But it seemed to me that the story dragged on more than it needed to.
I'll read more of Pettrey's books, to see how the family fares, but don't think I'll have to run out the day they're released to buy them.
Jennifer By Dee Henderson
Jennifer by Dee Henderson
Published by Bethany House Publishers
Jennifer was provided to me free of charge by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.
If you know me, you know that I LOVE Dee Henderson's books - especially her O'Malley Series. I read the whole series a few years ago, and fell in love with the family that she brought to life through the books.
Jennifer is Dee Henderson's Novella about the 7th, and youngest, member of the O'Malley family. It is the love story of Jennifer and Tom, and ultimately Jennifer's journey toward her faith in God.
I loved this book, although I wish it could have been longer. I'm so glad that Dee wrote this to fill in the blanks left out in the O'Malley Series.
I give the books 5 stars!
Published by Bethany House Publishers
Jennifer was provided to me free of charge by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.
If you know me, you know that I LOVE Dee Henderson's books - especially her O'Malley Series. I read the whole series a few years ago, and fell in love with the family that she brought to life through the books.
Jennifer is Dee Henderson's Novella about the 7th, and youngest, member of the O'Malley family. It is the love story of Jennifer and Tom, and ultimately Jennifer's journey toward her faith in God.
I loved this book, although I wish it could have been longer. I'm so glad that Dee wrote this to fill in the blanks left out in the O'Malley Series.
I give the books 5 stars!
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Taming the Wind
Taming
the Wind
By Tracie Peterson
Published
by Bethany House Publishers
Tracie Peterson is an author known for her Christian based Historical Ficton/Romance. I would have to say that she is one of my favorite authors in this genre.
Taming the Wind is the 3rd book in the Land of the Lone Star Series by Tracie Peterson. It is set in the Post-Civil War Era. I have read the other 2, and have really enjoyed them.
Clarissa
Lowe is a young widowed single mother who has resigned herself to
the tough life of raising a rambunctious 2 year old daughter on her
own. As a young widow, she is trying to decide how to make a living
in a land still reeling from the after effects of the War Between the
States.
Tyler Atherton is a cowboy with demons of his own. Cast off his land for being a Union symapthist during the war, he must deal with the rejection of the only state he's ever really loved, all the while dealing with the murder of his family by Indians several years before.
Tyler
helped save Clarissa's life several years ago, and he's never
forgotten her. He learns that she and her daughter have moved in with
her older sister on a neighboring ranch, and decides to go see how
Clarissa and her daughter, Gloria, are doing.
When
he meets Gloria, though, she worms her way into his heart in a way
he'd never expected.
Read
Taming the Wind
for the story of Tyler and Clarissa's budding relationship. Will the
demons of their past drive them apart, or will they join together in
their grief and find love in a harsh and barren land?
The Breath of Dawn
The
Breath of Dawn by Kristen Heitzmann
Published
By Bethany House Publishers
This
book was provided to me free of charge by Bethany House Publishers in
exchange for my written review.
The
Breath of Dawn was an enjoyable book with both suspense and a bit of
romance. It was hard for me to put down!
The
Breath of Dawn is a story of Quinn Rielly, who, 4 years before, had
done the right thing and given testimony that put a criminal behind
bars. Now he's out, and apparently after Quinn.
It's
also the story of Morgan Spencer, a very successful businessman who
is a single dad due to the tragic loss of his wife. He seems to have
all his ducks in a row, but his heart is still breaking.
When
Morgan and Quinn meet, will the feelings that develop between them
cause even more pain and suffering, or will it just what the doctor
ordered?
Read
this enjoyable Romantic Suspense book to find out. And if you want
even more background about Morgan, read A Rush of Wings
and The Still of Night.
This
was my second or third book that I'd read of Kristen Heitzmann's and
I was so excited to realize I had already purchased the other two of
her books that feature characters from this book! :) I can't wait
to read them.!
Though Mountains Fall
Though
Mountains Fall by Dale Cramer
Published
by Bethany House Publishers
Though
Mountains Fall is the 3rd in the Daughters of Caleb Bender
series. I hope it's not the last!
Though
Mountains Fall is the continuing story of an Amish community who
pulled up all roots from Ohio, and moved to a drastically different
environment in Paradise Valley, Mexico.
Caleb
Bender and his family were the first pioneers in Paradise Valley, and
through this series, I have followed the stories of his daughters,
Emma, Miriam, and Rachel as they grow and develop in their romances
with and marriages to their beaus. This story focuses mainly on
Miriam's decision to accept Domingo - a Catholic Mexican man's -
proposal of marriage.
Domingo
has worked for Caleb for over a year, and has proven himself
trustworthy and loyal, as well as a stable, loving man to Miriam.
But if Miriam is serious about marrying him, she is sure to be
shunned, and will lose the other relationships she hold so dear, the
ones with her family.
As
Miriam and Domingo make the biggest decision of their lives, Rachel
declares to her sister, " No matter what, we'll always be
sisters".
Will
this statement be challenged in the trying times ahead?
And
what about the army sent to help protect the Amish community from the
bandits? Are they a blessing or a curse?
This
book is an enjoyable 3rd edition to what I hope will be a continuing
saga of Caleb Bender's daughters. I've thouroughly enjoyed reading
Dale Cramer's Amish Fiction, and can't wait to read another of his
books in the future, hopefully soon!
PS.
This book was provided to me free of charge from Bethany House
Publishers in exchange for my written review of the book.
Monday, July 2, 2012
Submerged
Submerged by Dani Pettrey
Published by Bethany House Publishers
My 16 year old son reminded me the other day that you can't judge a book by it's cover. But I usually do. Especially if one of my favorite authors recommends the book on the cover.
Or if the cover says it's based in Alaska :) [My sister lives in Alaska with her family, so naturally I'm drawn to books about the state.]
Submerged takes place in a town called Yancey, off the coast of Tariuk Island, Alaska. Having that sister in Alaska, I decided to go online to Google Maps to find this town/coast. I looked and looked, zooming in and out, panning across the map, only to end up frustrated and decide (upon the suggestion of my same 16 year old son) to just Google it altogether.
The first listing that popped up was a review by Christine (Core Foundations), who said "because I am a geography nut, I spent 49 minutes of my life trying to find Tariuk Island. . .only to give up in frustration and call the author herself, to discover she had made the place up! Wouldn’t you know it! (For the record though, it is loosely based off Sitka.)"
Oh, well. :) At least someone else did the same thing as me!
Back to the plot...
Submerged is the story of the McKenna family - a family of of divers - and of Bailey Craig - a girl who left Yancey years before, never planning to return.
The McKenna's and Bailey ger thrown back together because of the tragic death of Bailey's aunt, a prominent figure in Yancey and a friend of the family.
What follows is romantic suspense similar to Dee Henderson's O'Malley series.
Thanks to the cover and Dee Henderson's recommendation, I picked up the book and really enjoyed it... proving that you sometimes CAN judge a book by it's cover. I hope you will enjoy it, too.
Published by Bethany House Publishers
My 16 year old son reminded me the other day that you can't judge a book by it's cover. But I usually do. Especially if one of my favorite authors recommends the book on the cover.
Or if the cover says it's based in Alaska :) [My sister lives in Alaska with her family, so naturally I'm drawn to books about the state.]
Submerged takes place in a town called Yancey, off the coast of Tariuk Island, Alaska. Having that sister in Alaska, I decided to go online to Google Maps to find this town/coast. I looked and looked, zooming in and out, panning across the map, only to end up frustrated and decide (upon the suggestion of my same 16 year old son) to just Google it altogether.
The first listing that popped up was a review by Christine (Core Foundations), who said "because I am a geography nut, I spent 49 minutes of my life trying to find Tariuk Island. . .only to give up in frustration and call the author herself, to discover she had made the place up! Wouldn’t you know it! (For the record though, it is loosely based off Sitka.)"
Oh, well. :) At least someone else did the same thing as me!
Back to the plot...
Submerged is the story of the McKenna family - a family of of divers - and of Bailey Craig - a girl who left Yancey years before, never planning to return.
The McKenna's and Bailey ger thrown back together because of the tragic death of Bailey's aunt, a prominent figure in Yancey and a friend of the family.
What follows is romantic suspense similar to Dee Henderson's O'Malley series.
Thanks to the cover and Dee Henderson's recommendation, I picked up the book and really enjoyed it... proving that you sometimes CAN judge a book by it's cover. I hope you will enjoy it, too.
Saturday, June 16, 2012
He Chose the Nails (What God Did To Win Your Heart)
He Chose the Nails (What God Did to Win Your Heart by Max Lucado
Published by Thomas Nelson Publishers
This book was provided to me free of charge by Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for my honest review.
He Chose the Nails, What God Did to Win Your Heart. The title says it all.
The God of the Universe, the maker of the stars and sky, of all we see and don't see, became man and dwelt among us. And in order to win us, to create a relationship with us, and to make a way available to spend eternity with us, chose a cruel way for His son to die.
He chose the nails. He chose the cross. He chose the spear. Even though it would cost His son, Jesus, His very life, He chose the pain, and suffering for us.
God wasn't shocked when they mistreated His Son. He wasn't surprised that they beat Him and put a crown of thorns on His head. He wasn't surprised at the mocking or the hatred.
What if we were God? Would we have chosen the same fate for our Only Son? I think not!!! But God knew the only way for all our sins to be forgiven was by the suffering and death of the only sinless human ever created. So He chose the nails for us.
Max Lucado's books are defintely my favorite non-fiction books. I could read them all the time and get something new out of them. The word pictures and life examples make them resonate with me long after I finish the books. I recommend anyone getting this book, and reading through it carefully. It will show you the love of a Holy God in ways you may never have imagined.
Just think, He chose the nails just for you.
Published by Thomas Nelson Publishers
This book was provided to me free of charge by Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for my honest review.
He Chose the Nails, What God Did to Win Your Heart. The title says it all.
The God of the Universe, the maker of the stars and sky, of all we see and don't see, became man and dwelt among us. And in order to win us, to create a relationship with us, and to make a way available to spend eternity with us, chose a cruel way for His son to die.
He chose the nails. He chose the cross. He chose the spear. Even though it would cost His son, Jesus, His very life, He chose the pain, and suffering for us.
God wasn't shocked when they mistreated His Son. He wasn't surprised that they beat Him and put a crown of thorns on His head. He wasn't surprised at the mocking or the hatred.
What if we were God? Would we have chosen the same fate for our Only Son? I think not!!! But God knew the only way for all our sins to be forgiven was by the suffering and death of the only sinless human ever created. So He chose the nails for us.
Max Lucado's books are defintely my favorite non-fiction books. I could read them all the time and get something new out of them. The word pictures and life examples make them resonate with me long after I finish the books. I recommend anyone getting this book, and reading through it carefully. It will show you the love of a Holy God in ways you may never have imagined.
Just think, He chose the nails just for you.
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Prize of My Heart
Prize of My Heart by Lisa Norato
Published by Bethany House Publishers
Prize of My Heart was provided to me free of charge by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review of the book.
Captain Brogan Talvis has been on a search for his son for the last 3 years, ever since his late wife disappeared with him. His search has finally led him to a shipbuilder, Nathaniel Huntley, and his daughter who have adopted "Drew" and raised him as their own.
When Brogan meets the family, he is surprised to find that he is attracted to Lorena, Nathaniel's daughter, who has been a loving caregiver to his son.
Lorena is surprised to discover that she, too, is falling for Brogan.
But both Lorena and Brogan have secrets. What will happen when they discover what the other is hiding? Will their love survive?
That love is tested when Lorena is kidnapped by a trusted friend, and would be suitor. Now Brogan will have to choose between rescuing the woman who has captured his heart, and the son he has searched for for so long.
Published by Bethany House Publishers
Prize of My Heart was provided to me free of charge by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review of the book.
Captain Brogan Talvis has been on a search for his son for the last 3 years, ever since his late wife disappeared with him. His search has finally led him to a shipbuilder, Nathaniel Huntley, and his daughter who have adopted "Drew" and raised him as their own.
When Brogan meets the family, he is surprised to find that he is attracted to Lorena, Nathaniel's daughter, who has been a loving caregiver to his son.
Lorena is surprised to discover that she, too, is falling for Brogan.
But both Lorena and Brogan have secrets. What will happen when they discover what the other is hiding? Will their love survive?
That love is tested when Lorena is kidnapped by a trusted friend, and would be suitor. Now Brogan will have to choose between rescuing the woman who has captured his heart, and the son he has searched for for so long.
The Captive Heart
The Captive Heart by Dale Cramer
Published by Bethany House Publishers
This book was provided to me free of charge by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review of the book.
The Captive Heart is the continuing story of the daughters of Caleb Bender. It follows the life of Miriam, Caleb's 19 year old daughter, who has never had a beau, and is old enough to be considered "old maid" material.
As we begin the book, we find Miriam struggling with her growing attraction to the Mexican man, Domingo, who has helped protect her family over the past year as they worked to establish an Amish community in Paradise Valley, Mexico.
Domigo has a pet name for Miriam, "Cualnezqui", which means Beautiful One. The problem with her falling for Domingo is that although he is a man of courage, and gentle with Miriam, he is not Amish, and the Amish frown on marrying outside their religion.
Her emotions become even more complicated when more Amish families move down to expand the community, and bring along a young Amishman, Micah, who has set his sights on Miriam.
As Domingo haunts her dreams, Miriam will have big decisions to make that will affect the rest of her life.
Read to find out what decision Miriam makes.
Dale Cramer has become a new favorite of mine in Amish Fiction. His books were recommended by Beverly Lewis, and I'm glad I took her advice and read his books. Read this series and see if you agree with me.
Published by Bethany House Publishers
This book was provided to me free of charge by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review of the book.
The Captive Heart is the continuing story of the daughters of Caleb Bender. It follows the life of Miriam, Caleb's 19 year old daughter, who has never had a beau, and is old enough to be considered "old maid" material.
As we begin the book, we find Miriam struggling with her growing attraction to the Mexican man, Domingo, who has helped protect her family over the past year as they worked to establish an Amish community in Paradise Valley, Mexico.
Domigo has a pet name for Miriam, "Cualnezqui", which means Beautiful One. The problem with her falling for Domingo is that although he is a man of courage, and gentle with Miriam, he is not Amish, and the Amish frown on marrying outside their religion.
Her emotions become even more complicated when more Amish families move down to expand the community, and bring along a young Amishman, Micah, who has set his sights on Miriam.
As Domingo haunts her dreams, Miriam will have big decisions to make that will affect the rest of her life.
Read to find out what decision Miriam makes.
Dale Cramer has become a new favorite of mine in Amish Fiction. His books were recommended by Beverly Lewis, and I'm glad I took her advice and read his books. Read this series and see if you agree with me.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Paradise Valley
Paradise Valley by Dale CramerPublished by Bethany House
Publishers
This is the first book I've read by Dale Cramer, and I decided to buy it because of a recommendation on the front by Beverly Lewis. I am a huge fan of Beverly Lewis' books, so if she said he's a good Amish fiction author, I had give the book a try. I was not disappointed! I will definitely be buying all the books in this series!
Paradise Valley is the first in a new series called The Daughters of Caleb Bender. It is based on on a true story of an Amish community that moved to Mexico in order to escape religious persecution in Ohio.
As the story opens, we meet the family of Caleb Bender, who after a run in with the police who are convinced that the Amish children are being negatively affected by their "truancy" from school, decide on a whim to buy 5,000 acres in a remote, mountain oasis in Paradise Valley, Mexico.
Caleb's family is the original settling family there, hoping to be joined by others from their Ohio community in a year, after the Benders have gotten established. But the move is a hard one for the family, especially the girls. Rachel has fallen head over heals for Jacob, and cannot dream of living apart from him, possibly forever. And Emma, secretly engaged to Levi, mourns the fact that they, too, may be torn apart. Then there's Miriam, their older sister, who has never been courted, and who knows her chances of finding an Amish beau in Mexico are slim to none.
The trip is a long one by train, and then by horse and buggy the rest of the way into the mountains. The closest town of any size is a full day's ride away. But the land is so fertile, it seems worth the ride!
In stark contrast to the beauty and fertility of Paradise Valley is the danger posed by local bandits intent on taking what the Benders have worked so hard for. The Benders had been warned of this danger, but had decided the pros outweighed the cons.
As time moves on, and the Benders continue getting the settlement ready, will there still be a place for the new families to come to? Or will the bandits steal it all away? What will happen to the girls?
Read the book to find out. ;)
This is the first book I've read by Dale Cramer, and I decided to buy it because of a recommendation on the front by Beverly Lewis. I am a huge fan of Beverly Lewis' books, so if she said he's a good Amish fiction author, I had give the book a try. I was not disappointed! I will definitely be buying all the books in this series!
Paradise Valley is the first in a new series called The Daughters of Caleb Bender. It is based on on a true story of an Amish community that moved to Mexico in order to escape religious persecution in Ohio.
As the story opens, we meet the family of Caleb Bender, who after a run in with the police who are convinced that the Amish children are being negatively affected by their "truancy" from school, decide on a whim to buy 5,000 acres in a remote, mountain oasis in Paradise Valley, Mexico.
Caleb's family is the original settling family there, hoping to be joined by others from their Ohio community in a year, after the Benders have gotten established. But the move is a hard one for the family, especially the girls. Rachel has fallen head over heals for Jacob, and cannot dream of living apart from him, possibly forever. And Emma, secretly engaged to Levi, mourns the fact that they, too, may be torn apart. Then there's Miriam, their older sister, who has never been courted, and who knows her chances of finding an Amish beau in Mexico are slim to none.
The trip is a long one by train, and then by horse and buggy the rest of the way into the mountains. The closest town of any size is a full day's ride away. But the land is so fertile, it seems worth the ride!
In stark contrast to the beauty and fertility of Paradise Valley is the danger posed by local bandits intent on taking what the Benders have worked so hard for. The Benders had been warned of this danger, but had decided the pros outweighed the cons.
As time moves on, and the Benders continue getting the settlement ready, will there still be a place for the new families to come to? Or will the bandits steal it all away? What will happen to the girls?
Read the book to find out. ;)
Sunday, April 1, 2012
This is Your Brain in Love by Dr. Earl Henslin
This is Your Brain in Love by Dr. Earl Henslin
Published by Thomas Nelson Publishers
This book was provided to me free of charge from Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for my review. I am so thankful for that.
This is Your Brain in Love is a book that I could not finish. It didn't seem applicable to me, since it's mostly based on brain scans and their results. These scans are supposed to show exactly what parts of the brain is damaged (if I understand it correctly) and the resulting emotions they affect. I feel that the brain scan is a very expensive way to figure out how to stay in love with your mate. I have no idea what type of doctor to go to even if I wanted one of those scans.
I hate giving bad reviews, because I love books so much, and am thankful for being allowed to review the books for free. So I tried off and on for months to read it. I was too proud to say I couldn't get through it. I finally gave up.
Guess I won't be reading any more of his books.
Published by Thomas Nelson Publishers
This book was provided to me free of charge from Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for my review. I am so thankful for that.
This is Your Brain in Love is a book that I could not finish. It didn't seem applicable to me, since it's mostly based on brain scans and their results. These scans are supposed to show exactly what parts of the brain is damaged (if I understand it correctly) and the resulting emotions they affect. I feel that the brain scan is a very expensive way to figure out how to stay in love with your mate. I have no idea what type of doctor to go to even if I wanted one of those scans.
I hate giving bad reviews, because I love books so much, and am thankful for being allowed to review the books for free. So I tried off and on for months to read it. I was too proud to say I couldn't get through it. I finally gave up.
Guess I won't be reading any more of his books.
Monday, December 19, 2011
The Chair by James Rubart
The Chair
By James Rubart
Published by Broadman and Holman Publishers
This is the second book of James Rubart's that I have read, and my favorite of the two.
The Chair is the story of Corin Roscoe, an antiques dealer with a business in trouble, who is given a special chair from a seemingly random woman one day. When she gives him the chair, she claims that it is a special chair made by the best carpenter in the world.
As Corin tries to find the true origin of the chair, he encounters miracles along the way. A young boy is healed of his asthma after sitting in it. Is this chair able to perform miracles?!
His research takes him to the depth of danger as he soon finds out that he is not the only one interested in the origin of the chair, and that he is not the only one who will do anything to possess it.
The story is one of faith and longing. Of love and betrayal. Of hope and longing. Of miracles seen and miracles denied.
The Chair is a book I would highly recommend. And the best part of the book is the end. :) Read it. You'll be glad you did.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Hiding My Bruises While Singing In the Choir
Hiding My Bruises While Singing in the Choir
By Jan Juliano Balzer
Have you ever had a book that you just couldn't put down? One that called your name when you weren't there, beckoning you back again?
Well, this book did just that for me.
As you may know, I'm really a Christian fiction kind of girl. Give me a good mystery, thriller, or Christian romance, and let it take me away from it all. It's my escape.
So for a non-fiction book to grab me, it has to be good. And I can name only a handful that have kept my attention all the way through.
Hiding My Bruises While Singing in the Choir is the true story of a lady who I am proud to call my friend. We met because of another friend's book.
It's the story of a little girl with big dreams that grows up to have those dreams shattered, and then put back together again through the grace of Almighty God.
Jan's book had me gasping, holding my breath, and then breathing a sigh of relief. The tragedies played out in this book are turned into life lessons that we can all learn from.
The book had me thinking, and praying, and considering what God is doing in my life that will someday help someone else.
A highly recommended book for anyone who needs to be encouraged in rough times.
Thanks, Jan, for sharing your story, and for allowing me the privilege of reviewing it!
By Jan Juliano Balzer
Have you ever had a book that you just couldn't put down? One that called your name when you weren't there, beckoning you back again?
Well, this book did just that for me.
As you may know, I'm really a Christian fiction kind of girl. Give me a good mystery, thriller, or Christian romance, and let it take me away from it all. It's my escape.
So for a non-fiction book to grab me, it has to be good. And I can name only a handful that have kept my attention all the way through.
Hiding My Bruises While Singing in the Choir is the true story of a lady who I am proud to call my friend. We met because of another friend's book.
It's the story of a little girl with big dreams that grows up to have those dreams shattered, and then put back together again through the grace of Almighty God.
Jan's book had me gasping, holding my breath, and then breathing a sigh of relief. The tragedies played out in this book are turned into life lessons that we can all learn from.
The book had me thinking, and praying, and considering what God is doing in my life that will someday help someone else.
A highly recommended book for anyone who needs to be encouraged in rough times.
Thanks, Jan, for sharing your story, and for allowing me the privilege of reviewing it!
Sunday, November 27, 2011
The Mercy
The Mercy - By Beverly Lewis
Published by Bethany House Publishers
The Mercy was provided to me free of charge by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my posted review.
The Mercy is the third book in The Rose Trilogy, written by Beverly Lewis.
The Rose Trilogy follows the life of Rose Ann, an Amish young lady, youngest in a family of 9 I believe.
The Mercy finds both Rose and her sister, Hen, (a nickname for the name Hannah), both longing for change. As Hen takes care of her injured husband, Rose gets another chance at love.
Rose has recently released her beau (and fiance) from their engagement, after finding out he was pining for a friend of hers. As she deals with this loss, her brother and sister -in-law decide to play matchmaker. Will the young man they set her up with be the man of her dreams after the heartache she's endured?
And if so, why does her mind keep reminding her of her former best friend, Nick? He's been shunned after all, and has brought shame on his family in the process.
Read the series to find out what happens to sweet Rose, and her beloved sister, Hen.
Published by Bethany House Publishers
The Mercy was provided to me free of charge by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my posted review.
The Mercy is the third book in The Rose Trilogy, written by Beverly Lewis.
The Rose Trilogy follows the life of Rose Ann, an Amish young lady, youngest in a family of 9 I believe.
The Mercy finds both Rose and her sister, Hen, (a nickname for the name Hannah), both longing for change. As Hen takes care of her injured husband, Rose gets another chance at love.
Rose has recently released her beau (and fiance) from their engagement, after finding out he was pining for a friend of hers. As she deals with this loss, her brother and sister -in-law decide to play matchmaker. Will the young man they set her up with be the man of her dreams after the heartache she's endured?
And if so, why does her mind keep reminding her of her former best friend, Nick? He's been shunned after all, and has brought shame on his family in the process.
Read the series to find out what happens to sweet Rose, and her beloved sister, Hen.
Falls Like Lightning
Falls Like Lightning - By Shawn Grady
Published by Bethany House Publishers
Falls Like Lightning was provided to me free of charge from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my review.
Silas Kent is a smoke jumper - a man who jumps out of a plane, and then fights fires from the ground - WITHOUT water.
He never expected to meet Elle again, but when she is assigned to pilot the plane Silas and his team are jumping from, Silas begins to regret the mistake he made with her years ago. Elle, on the other hand, has her hands full being a single mother with a high risk job. She's been hurt enough, and wants no part of Silas anymore.
Before they can start to at least rebuild their friendship, Silas is assigned to fight a huge forest fire in the same forest that Elle has flown over inch by inch following a horrible tragedy with her father. So naturally, Elle is assigned to pilot the plane yet again.
When a freak accident leaves Silas on the ground, barely escaping with his life, and Elle possibly dead from the plane crash, Silas sets out to find the downed plane even while fighting the fire with a new crew.
As he searches, he realizes he has much more to fear than the raging fire itself.
Falls Like Lightning was a good read. Not a favorite book of mine, but good for contemporary Christian Fiction/Suspense. I learned a bit about Fire Jumping and the sacrifices men and women make for our communities every day. And for that I am extremely thankful.
Published by Bethany House Publishers
Falls Like Lightning was provided to me free of charge from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my review.
Silas Kent is a smoke jumper - a man who jumps out of a plane, and then fights fires from the ground - WITHOUT water.
He never expected to meet Elle again, but when she is assigned to pilot the plane Silas and his team are jumping from, Silas begins to regret the mistake he made with her years ago. Elle, on the other hand, has her hands full being a single mother with a high risk job. She's been hurt enough, and wants no part of Silas anymore.
Before they can start to at least rebuild their friendship, Silas is assigned to fight a huge forest fire in the same forest that Elle has flown over inch by inch following a horrible tragedy with her father. So naturally, Elle is assigned to pilot the plane yet again.
When a freak accident leaves Silas on the ground, barely escaping with his life, and Elle possibly dead from the plane crash, Silas sets out to find the downed plane even while fighting the fire with a new crew.
As he searches, he realizes he has much more to fear than the raging fire itself.
Falls Like Lightning was a good read. Not a favorite book of mine, but good for contemporary Christian Fiction/Suspense. I learned a bit about Fire Jumping and the sacrifices men and women make for our communities every day. And for that I am extremely thankful.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
An Unlikely Suitor
An Unlikely Suitor by Nancy Moser
Published by Bethany House Publishers
This book was provided to me free of charge by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my review.
Life is tough for Lucy Scarpelli and her family. After moving to the United Stages from Italy to pursue a better life for their family, the Scarpelli family is crammed into a 2 room tenement apartment with no private bathroom and no hot water.
To make matters worse, the tenement they've lived in for years is scheduled to be destroyed in a matter of days.
With her father gone and her uncle and aunt moving out West to be with their son, the burden of finding a mew place to live falls on Lucy's shoulders.
After a quick prayer for guidance, Lucy sets out to find such a place. Little does she know that finding a place for her family to live will change their lives forever.
For Lucy not only finds a place for her mother, sister and herself to live, she also finds new jobs for all of them at a dress botique - Madame Moreau's Fashion Emporium.
There Lucy forms a special bond with Rowena, a girl with a disability that Lucy is able to help hide with her abilities as a seamstress.
Their blossoming friendship prompts Rowena to invite Lucy along to her family's summer retreat in Newport, Rhode Island. Lucy jumps at the idea, never having the opportunity to visit such a place.
While there, much to Lucy's surprise, she meets a dashing young man, and love begins to take bloom. But Lucy resists this love, wondering why a man of his station would fall for a poor dressmaker like her.
Meanwhile, Rowena faces an arranged marriage to a young man she is not in love with. But can she hope for anything else, being crippled as she is?
And finally, Lucy's younger sister, Sophia, begins to fall for a man above her station, too.
Will the 3 girls find love in the end, or will all their hearts be broken.
An enjoyable historical fiction book with just enough twists to keep you guessing til the end.
Published by Bethany House Publishers
This book was provided to me free of charge by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my review.
Life is tough for Lucy Scarpelli and her family. After moving to the United Stages from Italy to pursue a better life for their family, the Scarpelli family is crammed into a 2 room tenement apartment with no private bathroom and no hot water.
To make matters worse, the tenement they've lived in for years is scheduled to be destroyed in a matter of days.
With her father gone and her uncle and aunt moving out West to be with their son, the burden of finding a mew place to live falls on Lucy's shoulders.
After a quick prayer for guidance, Lucy sets out to find such a place. Little does she know that finding a place for her family to live will change their lives forever.
For Lucy not only finds a place for her mother, sister and herself to live, she also finds new jobs for all of them at a dress botique - Madame Moreau's Fashion Emporium.
There Lucy forms a special bond with Rowena, a girl with a disability that Lucy is able to help hide with her abilities as a seamstress.
Their blossoming friendship prompts Rowena to invite Lucy along to her family's summer retreat in Newport, Rhode Island. Lucy jumps at the idea, never having the opportunity to visit such a place.
While there, much to Lucy's surprise, she meets a dashing young man, and love begins to take bloom. But Lucy resists this love, wondering why a man of his station would fall for a poor dressmaker like her.
Meanwhile, Rowena faces an arranged marriage to a young man she is not in love with. But can she hope for anything else, being crippled as she is?
And finally, Lucy's younger sister, Sophia, begins to fall for a man above her station, too.
Will the 3 girls find love in the end, or will all their hearts be broken.
An enjoyable historical fiction book with just enough twists to keep you guessing til the end.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
The Girl in the Gatehouse by Julie Klassen
The Girl in the Gatehouse by Julie Klassen
Published by Bethany House Publishers
This book was provided to me free of charge by Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my posted review.
Set in the early 1800's, The Girl in the Gatehouse follows the life of Mariah Aubrey, a young lady who has to leave the only home she has ever known to live in the gatehouse of a distant relative - an aunt by marriage, named Mrs. Prynn-Hallsey - because of a scandal surrounding her name.
Having no money to her name, Mariah must support herself and her trusted servant, Miss Dixon, the only way she knows how - by writing novels. This can only compound the scandal already attached to her name. You see, women writing novels in the early 19th century is frowned upon!
So Mariah writes anonymously. Trouble presents itself, though, when the man who offers to publish her book wants to meet her in person. Should she allow this? Can she trust him? Or will he be the one to ruin it all for her?
As the meeting looms, a wealthy Navy captain, Matthew Bryant, comes to rent the estate from Mrs. Prynn-Hallsey's step son following her death. He sees the publisher going to visit Mariah, and wonders what a man would be doing visiting "his" estate's gatehouse.
When he checks it out, he realizes there is a young lady who lives there. And she is quite beautiful. Kind, too. As he gets to know her, and discovers she has a secret to hide, he becomes aware that befriending a young lady with scandal attached to her name is not the best idea.
Add to all this drama some mystery surrounding the gatehouse itself, 2 servants falling for the Miss Dixon at the same time, and the fact that although Captain Matthew is drawn to Mariah, he is determined to win back an old flame, and you have a book Jane Austen fans will enjoy.
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