Book Review of Her One and Only by Becky Wade

Becky Wade has been a favorite author of mine since My Stubborn Heart. She instantly won my heart with her rich and honest stories of wounded souls and the enduring hope of the Healer. Her Porter Family series sits on my bookshelf at home - where very few of my review books land - most get donated to a library. So here is the final addition to the Porter Family.

Her One and Only is book 4 in the series. The long awaited wrap up to the family saga and the only girl in the family of rough and tumble boys. But Dru is no princess!

After ten years in the NFL, super star Gray Fowler is accustomed to obsessive fans. But when Gray starts receiving death threats from a stalker, his team hires an executive protection agency to guard him until the culprit is caught. Dealing with bodyguards 24/7 is a headache, especially when one of them is a young, beautiful woman. How can a female half his size possibly protect him better than he can protect himself?

Dru Porter is a former Marine, an expert markswoman, and a black belt–none of which saved her from disaster on her last assignment. In order to rebuild her tarnished reputation, she’s determined to find Gray’s stalker and, since relationships between agents and clients are forbidden, avoid a romantic attachment between herself and the rugged football player with the mysterious past.

Yet every secret that leads Dru closer to the stalker also draws her closer to Gray. As the danger escalates, they’ll survive only if they can learn to trust their lives — and their hearts — to one another.

I absolutely LOVED the previous books in the series. Yet, this one fell very flat for me. I wholeheartedly recommend her series but cannot offer the same praise for Her One and Only. However there is a plot line in this book that follows up on Meg and Bo from book 1 Undeniably Yours.

Now for my reasons. First of all the characters were stereotypical. I loved the flip of a teeny-tiny woman decked out with killer bodyguard skills protecting a huge, muscled tight end football player. Chapter one page one and two go into detail that the irony isn't lost on Dru either. However beyond that flip and switch, everything falls very predictable after that. Gray, our football hero idolizes himself and all the female attention he receives on a daily basis. And Dru fights tooth and nail to be seen as "more than" her short stature and womanly figure.

I enjoyed the banter between the characters brought on by the way they saw themselves in contrast to each other. Yet Gray was hard to like. He baited her. He taunted her, all to prove he could get a reaction from any girl. So at times the talk between the two was inappropriate with sexual innuendos.

As is with good fiction, the main characters grow and mature as they face their issues and work through them. This is definitely the case with these characters and by the end of the book I could like and appreciate who Gray was. A part of that change for him is how his heart softened to Dru. At one point he made a bet with a fellow football player to see who could win Dru - who could get her to kiss him first. At first it was pure Neanderthal fun as the boys competed but a protective side soon came out of Gray. It redeemed his playboy qualities slightly but the novel definitely takes liberties to show his needs and urges in relation to women. Not unlike his football cohort.

I also struggled with the suspense aspect. The story opens with a prologue three months in the future. In all honesty if that hadn't been there I would not have finished the book. Because it was there I had a glimpse that something powerful was going to happen to peak the story. And I waited a lot of pages to get it. I just did not get pulled into the drama of the search for the stalker.

Yet for me the biggest distraction to the story was the sub plot of Meg and Bo's journey with infertility and loss. It was a great, inspiring story in every way but not here in this book. It needed its own title. 

It pains me to write this review as I have adored all of Becky Wade's previous books. So, suffice it to say this one will not deter me from reading another book of hers in the future. And as always if I must deliver a low rating on a book I remind you that everyone has different likes. Please feel free to visit another blog I came across that had a very different reaction to this particular book.

By the Book Book review of Her One and Only,

And you can always check out my previous review of book 3 A Love Like Ours which I couldn't say enough good about.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc."

Book Review of Like Never Before by Melissa Tagg

I love all things Melissa Tagg!  And Like Never Before, book 2 in the Walker Family series is no exception.

Maple Valley became Amelia Bentley's haven after her heart and her dreams of a family were shattered. But when the newspaper she runs is in danger of closing, she pins all her hopes on a story that just might convince the new owner to keep the paper running.

After his biggest campaign success yet, widowed speechwriter Logan Walker has the chance of a lifetime: a spot on a presidential campaign. But first he has to return to his hometown to sell the newspaper he's suddenly inherited.

But instead of a quick sale, Logan finds himself helping Amelia chase her story. She's scrappy, but wounded. He's dependable, but lost. And working together to break the story on Maple Valley's unsolved mystery is just the start of the sparks that fly in the office and in their hearts.

Named to Publishers Weekly's spring 2016 "Religion and Spirituality" Top 10 list!

This book has everything. Romance, powerful characters in realistic and compelling struggles, redemption, hope and intrigue.There was nothing to disappoint in this story. 

Tagg writes fun fiction with a deep soul. Amelia and Logan's romance was deep and sweet and heart-tugging. The characters were real and vibrant and captivating. The setting rich and touching. 

There is a historical element to this particular story as Tagg dives her characters into solving a mystery of a local legend in Maple Valley. It was entertaining to see how Melissa Tagg wove elements of fiction (her characters) and fact (real curious events in history) to tell a riveting tale. 

If this is your first introduction to Melissa Tagg, feel free to browse a few other reviews I've done of her work.

• From The Start - Walker Family series Book #1
• Made to Last - Where Love Begins series Book #1

Also, check out her website. It is a real treat. Under the books tab you can find all her great stuff. As well as a prequel - FREE - to the Walker Family Series. (Download Three Little Words.) And be sure to notice that book #3 - Keep Holding On is already available. [Yeah, yeah, I'm a little late with my book #2 review :( ]
 
AND - for the Christmas story lovers out there check out Tagg's two Christmas novellas from Maple Valley.

YOU WON'T REGRET IT!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc."

Book Review of A Fool & His Monet by Sandra Orchard

A Fool & His Monet is my first book by Sandra Orchard and my first mystery to review.

It was a fun story with quirky characters following a trail of missing art and leading to so much more!

Serena Jones has a passion for uncovering lost and stolen art—one that’s only surpassed by her zeal to uncover the truth about the art thief who murdered her grandfather. She’s joined the FBI Art Crime Team with the secret hope that one of her cases will lead to his killer. Now, despite her mother’s pleas to do something safer—like get married and give her grandkids—Serena’s learning how to go undercover to catch thieves and black market traders.

When a local museum discovers an irreplaceable Monet missing, Jones goes into action. The clues point in different directions and her boss orders her to cease investigating her most promising suspect. But determined to solve the case, and perhaps discover another clue in her grandfather’s case, she pushes ahead, regardless of the danger.

With spunk, humor, and plenty of heart-stopping moments, Sandra Orchard gives readers an exciting string of cases to crack, and a character they’ll love to watch solve them.

Sandra Orchard tells her lovely tale in first person POV. That is a personal preference and some people don't like it. I do. I like reading it and I like writing it. However I had some troubles with that in this book. I enjoyed the perspective of Serena - getting in her head - for a while. Unfortunately, as the story progressed I wished I had someone else's perspective of Serena to counter balance my confusion.

The personality of this plucky FBI agent, sometimes felt over the top. I had a hard time believing she was a legitimate FBI agent. She's a rookie, that much is for sure, but knowing her thoughts and seeing her actions I questioned a lot about her abilities. That made it hard for me to invest in her as the main character.

Even still, the story was fun and fresh. I loved the title and book cover. Book #2 Another Day, Another Dali coming out in October looks equally exciting with its bright red cover.

Overall, I liked the concept of the the story and characters better than I enjoyed reading the book. I found myself putting it down after a chapter and leaving it for some time. This made the "chase" of it drag down to a crawl. However, this won't stop me from reading book 2 and giving this author another go.

One of the enticing aspects of the story is the romance. The author has written Serena to be a beautiful woman who seems to have men falling down around her feet. However, Serena seems dull to the fact. There are two would-be suitors that occupy the pages with her. Number one, Nate, is the Super of her apartment building with a love for tea, movies and a very loose definition of "her" apartment. Bachelor #2 is her hard working, by the book, field training agent, Tanner. Both have fantastic qualities and both are competing to be one whose advances she recognizes first.

Along with the fun of chasing criminals and dodging advances Serena has to keep up with her family. What a fun and odd bunch. If you've read any other reviews of this book I'm sure you've heard mention of Aunt Martha. A lively character that for me, kept the plot moving more than the art crime suspects. Delightful bunch! Worth reading just for the antics they bring to the page.

In recap, I would still recommend this book to others, especially if they like mysteries. I plan to read book 2 and see if Serena can win my heart more, as well as find out if #TeamNate or #TeamTanner will win.  BTW, the author has set up a reader/fan page to vote for your favorite guy to win Serena's heart.

Check out Baker Publishing for an excerpt to read as well as a reader's group guide.

Thanks for reading! Feel free to comment about this book or any other Sandra Orchard or mystery author you'd like to share.


"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc."

Book Review of The Chase by Kyle and Kelsey Kupecky

Got a daughter? Granddaughter?

Or maybe a female friend whose sights are set on finding that "right" guy?

Then check out this new book from Kelsey and Kyle Kupecky.

The Chase.

"A must-read for single girls looking for a God-honoring relationship!" - Rebecca St. James; Grammy and Dove Award-winning recording artist and author of One Last Thing.
 
It is a fun read for young girls all the way up to the not-so-young. I would not recommend for girls younger than twelve or thirteen personally. However it would depend on where their heart is. If it's all about chasing guys ... then get it now!

Kelsey is the daughter of well-known Christian fiction author Karen Kingsbury. She grew up longing for her own "love story". And she got it. In her first ever book, Kelsey tells about learning to focus on God ... not on who the next guy in her life could be. That coupled with some great teaching from her parents set the stage for her to anticipate God's guy for her fairy tale.

Kyle Kupecky is a Christian recording artist. He also had a great stage set for him about looking forward to a future written by God's hand and not his own.

Together this young couple writes a book, from their hearts, to young girls everywhere about chasing after the right Thing.  The book is a light and easy read filled with tons of personal stories. Both Kelsey and Kyle give their thoughts - a unique aspect for girls everywhere to have some insight in a guy's heart and mind in regards to dating and girls. Kelsey imparts great wisdom for girls and young women everywhere, while Kyle brings in scripture and a guy's thoughts. The book isn't your typical "save yourself till marriage" message. This is a nice detour down a little broader path. It's about where to focus your heart. Because if you focus it on God, He will take care of the rest. So, eyes on Him, not on the boys in your math class and let God write your "Happily Ever After".

Kyle and Kelsey give some very compelling stories and evidence that God had plans for them back before they even began dreaming of "the one". A very cool story to tell. I already have a few young girls in my life that would benefit from this book and message.

Overall, I enjoyed this book. I do however have one comment to add that I hope will give insight but not deter you from the valuable piece that this book truly is. I wanted to read this book with my daughter, who is turning twenty. She was in a dating relationship and we wanted to find a book that would help steer her heart in the right direction. I was thankful I read it first. There is nothing inappropriate in this book - or anything you wouldn't want your daughters or granddaughters to read, it is just a very different take than my daughter can relate to. See, she is in college and in her very first dating experience. Kyle and Kelsey tell a wonderful story of how God orchestrated their lives to come together, but neither of them refrained from dating through high school. The entire book is filled with stories of the guys and girls who went wrong. Just not the kind of thing that is helpful for my daughter at this time.

So, my advice ... judge where the girl in your life is at. If she is chasing guys and not God then this is a fantastic read. Definitely. No doubt about it. However, for girls like my daughter - it is all good information and excellent advice, but the stories of dates gone wrong and guys not worth it wasn't quite what we were looking for.

What my daughter can take away from this book is that God is a far better author for our love stories that we can ever be. So, wait. Rest. And most of all chase after His heart and let him take care of yours.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Here is some other fun links for you to check out.

Karen Kingsbury's Bailey Flanagan series used Kyle and Kelsey for the video book trailer for book 3, Longing. :) That is alos Anthem Lights song, Can't Get Over You plays in the background. (A Christian band Kyle used to be a part of.) :D

Give You The World by Kyle Kupecky - official music video - with real footage of the two.

A truly amazing song for a young girl chasing after boys - Hide Your Love Away by Anthem Lights Lyric video. Buy this song for her! And show her this video - Anthem Lights - Behind the Song because she is worth waiting for!

I have so many more valuable things to share with a girl in your life that needs to know she is precious and worth saving her whole self - heart and body - for a true love that will  last. If you want more contact me. This is a passion close to my heart. I wished someone would have told me that simple line when I was chasing after all the wrong things.  Tell someone today ... you are worth waiting for.

Book Review of From Good to Grace by Christine Hoover

I remember so clearly the early days of each of my babies. 

Baby #1. I had high hopes. Not just for them but more so for me. I'm gonna be a good mom and do all the things good moms do. I had a list.

Then came baby number two and dressed in tears I spoke a new promise ... "I'm gonna do better this time. I'm gonna try to get it right with this baby."

Then came baby number three. The words were there, underneath a suffocating cloak of shame. I was too burdened to speak them out loud because I had failed. Not once but twice. Dare I try again?

Wow! If only I knew better back then what God is teaching me now. He never wanted good. He wanted surrendered. He wanted me ... covered in His grace. He doesn't want me to try so much and so hard. 

Christine Hoover's new book From Good to Grace is an exceptional book on exactly that. God never asked for us to be good enough. We can't. We won't ever be. And wishing for it only destroys His true purpose for us. He only wants us ... dripping in His grace.

Do you struggle with wanting to do better? Wishing for more energy so you could accomplish more? Praying for a second chance so this time you could get it right?

Stop right there.

You are living in what Christine describes as the "Goodness Gospel". That was never where God wanted you to be. Striving for that Gold Star or that pat on the back. That sweet "You did great" smile. Do enough. Be enough. 

Stop. 

That is not the gospel of our Lord and Savior. Christine reminds us, "we aren't enough, but God has made us enough by his grace." 

In a wonderfully enchanting manner, Christine uses examples from her own life as a mother, pastor's wife and child of God to impart to us the importance of recognizing the false gospel in our lives. She dives into scripture with the reader to point out the areas that we "try" when we should just lean in instead.

 Publisher's blurb:

God is calling you to something greater than good.
So many of us feel as if we do not do enough and, in fact, are not enough. We try hard to be good--a good friend, mom, wife, Christian, employee, or ministry leader--hoping for that "atta-girl" from God, some heavenly assertion that we matter. In the process, we find ourselves living by a lesser gospel: the gospel of goodness. It's a gospel without grace, and in the end, it's good for nothing.

With compelling illustrations from her own life and from Scripture, Christine Hoover helps you start asking, "What does God want for me?" before asking, "What does God want from me?" You'll find yourself breathing a sigh of relief at this powerful message of freedom and hope. Rather than serving God out of obligation or duty, you'll be compelled to love and serve God with great joy.

 A definite keeper. I recommend this book for any women, young or old, as an individual or a group study (discussion guide included). Even if you don't see yourself in the description of the book, you probably know a woman who does.

Christine Hoover authors a fantastic blog, Grace Covers Me. Check her out there. Also you can find an excerpt of the book on Baker Publishing website. Or visit your favorite Christian bookseller and get your own copy.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc

Book Review of You're Loved No Matter What by Holley Gerth

"She whispers it softly over a cup of coffee.
She pulls me aside and confesses it after a conference.
She sends a note to my inbox that shares it.
One little phrase: "I'm tired."
There's an epidemic of weariness among women today. And the ones affected the most are often the ones trying the hardest. To be good. To keep it together. To please God and everyone around them.
Are you one of them? I was.
So I asked God to help me understand why so many of us have settled for simply making it through the day. And this is what I discovered: We don't truly believe we're unconditionally loved."   Holley Gerth.

Once again Holley Gerth has written a book to touch and inspire the hearts of women everywhere. Her latest book, You're Loved No Matter What is a sweet, soft whisper to my tired and weary heart. And probably yours too.

Gerth explores why women are becoming weary from doing, doing and more doing and feeling like they can't possibly do enough. But, as the book walks us through, doing was never God's plan for us. No wonder we're tired. 

Each chapter has room at the end to explore the thoughts deeper and more personally with a few prompts and questions. As well as the back of the book has a Go Deeper Guide for individuals and groups.

Although this wasn't my favorite book of Holley's I found the truths in it powerful and inspiring. A few of my favorite parts were:

• You have freedom to take risks. Holley writes: "Perfectionism is the great paralyzer. It tells us we shouldn't take a step, make a decision, or try anything new because it might not be just right." 
• Pursue excellence, not perfection. And, Accept that not everything in your life can be excellent. "You only have so much time, energy and emotion in your day. It's okay not to be excellent at everything."

I found Holley's endearing and comforting voice to be refreshing. She writes as if I'm her friend (and you too) and we're sitting down at a small little bistro somewhere having coffee. A fantastic book that I recommend for all women who are feeling the pull to go, go, go. This one's definitely a keeper for my book shelf!

If you aren't familiar with Holley's other books, I strongly urge you to check them out. Her website and her blog are constant doses of love and encouragement.
I have had the amazing priviledge to review several of them and you can look back at some of the other wonderful works she's written.
What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days.
You're Going to be Okay.
You're made for a God Sized Dream.
You're Already Amazing.


Thanks to the author and publisher for the opportunity to review this book. I was not required to review it positively.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

Book Review of The Trouble With Patience by Maggie Brendan

A new series by seasoned author Maggie Brendan titled Virtues and Vices sounded 'oh-so-appealing' to me. Although this is my first time reading a novel by Maggie Brendan I awaited the book with much anticipation. But I ran into some "trouble" with The Trouble With Patience.

Publisher's Blurb:

Patience Cavanaugh has lost hope in romance. The man she yearned to marry is dead and her dreams are gone with him. Now she is consumed with restoring a dilapidated boardinghouse in order to support herself.

Despite Patience's desire for solitude, Jedediah Jones, the local marshal with a reputation for hanging criminals, becomes an ever-looming part of her life. It seems like such a simple arrangement: She needs someone with a strong back to help her fix up the boardinghouse. He needs a dependable source of food for himself and his prisoners. But as she gets to know this "hanging lawman," Patience finds there is far more to him than meets the eye--and it could destroy their tenuous relationship forever.

The story starts out strong, grabbing the reader's attention immediately. A rough and gruff Lawman and a single, yet strong-minded young woman clash instantly. Fireworks!

However they fizzled out quickly in my mind. Let me share some positives and some negatives I found in reading this novel.

First off, the plot was fun. It sounded very intriguing on the back cover and got better as the reader entered the story. There was so much potential for a riveting read. All the characters were easy to like and the hero and heroine both had strengths and flaws that were understandable. However, that is where the "connection" ended for me. At the end of the story I liked the characters as much as I had at the beginning--so-so. Not what I prefer in a novel. I want to be restless at the end of a novel because I can't bear to read "The End".

I also found that the plot moved very slowly through the story covering a lot of mundane story aspects. Then when the tension should be high - the peak of the romance thread and the peak of the suspense thread, the story skipped over these with a handful of sentences. 

For me the biggest challenge to a true investment in the story was the writing. I felt constantly yanked out of the story by the style and choice of words and dialogue. It was hard to put my finger on it at first. Then it dawned on me that the words were telling me the story instead of the characters showing it to me. The dialogue felt forced and contrived at times. The characters words didn't match their inner thoughts and the personality I had perceived them to have. Also, words like "java" were used to replace coffee. I can't say with any certainty that in 1866 in the Old West they didn't use words like that. However it didn't feel authentic to me. (But I am not an historian).

I really wanted more from this novel. This all may be personal preference. According to many other reviews on-line the book was very successful. 

Overall I found the story to be a light hearted read. The romance was slow and gentle and the characters likeable. If that's your cup of "java" then you might enjoy "The Trouble With Patience".

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. I received the book free of charge in exchange for my honest opinion.

Book Review of Atlas Girl by Emily T. Wierenga

 You need to read this book!


Emily Wierenga left home at age eighteen with no intention of ever returning. 

Broken down by organized religion, a childhood battle with anorexia, and her parents' rigidity, she set out to find God somewhere else--anywhere else. Her travels took her across three continents in buses, cars, and planes, across mountains and over deep blue seas.

What she hadn't realized was that her faith was waiting for her the whole time--in the place she least expected it.

Poignant and passionate, Atlas Girl is a deeply personal story of the yearning we all share to be truly known, entirely forgiven, and utterly loved.

I loved this memoir. I've never read a memoir before so I wasn't exactly certain what to expect. I was so pleasantly surprised, The power and passion behind Emily T. Wierenga's prodigal story is profound and absolutely amazing. Her raw honesty touched my heart in so many ways. It was a book of aching tears, anger, sweet smiles and quiet reflection - and I felt every one of those on every single page!

What I loved most about Emily's book was her writing. Her brutally honest assessment bled into each chapter with each word she chose. It's poetic flavour and heart-gripping prose left me speechless at times. It made the pages sing like a bouquet. (That's my lame attempt to be like her ;)). In her own words, Emily says: "That's life and faith too. Messy, blurred and beautiful." Anyway, her words truly were beautiful and open and authentic as she laid bare her heart and her life with her readers.

The next thing I loved about her book was the actual story. Her life has been colourful and vibrant at times and seared with pain and loss at others. Her journey closer to the heart of God demonstrated on each page so beautifully depicts the brokenness and redemption tension we all live in.  The story of her childhood eating disorder and family angst married into her mother's great loss physically and emotionally was poignant and bittersweet. Yet with the sweetest of endings that only God could author.

One last thing I loved about the book were the quotes. Each chapter began with a quote. I wrote many of them down in my journal alongside some new ones I love too by Emily.

The only downfall I encountered in reading the book was the bouncing timeline. Each chapter tells a story starting with the location and the date. This was helpful at first. But the chapters do not tell a linear story. And soon I began turning back and forth to discover if this next segment happened before or after that segment. However, in hindsight I discovered a couple of things. First, that the way and format she tells her story is truly compelling and interactive - indicative of how our lives are so interwoven through people and time. After awhile I choose to ignore the dates and just fall into the story as Emily chose to unfold it. This helped greatly. Secondly, (and I didn't find this till I turned the last page) there is a proper, consecutive timeline printed on the last pages. A great thing to include - only wished I'd seen it earlier.

On a personal side note, it was very fun for me to read a book where I've been to one of the setting locations. I live only a few hours from Edmonton, Alberta and found a sense of school-girl joy when she would list a location that I'd been to and could actually picture. That was cool! It has been a great pleasure to support a local CANADIAN author.

Overall, I've been so profoundly impacted by Emily's story and her faith in love and in His love. I received my copy of her book for free but have already ordered a few copies to use for friends and family that I know will love her story.

Without any hesitation I recommend this book to anyone. Especially those who have wandered aimlessly in their journey with God. Whether you had (or have) an eating disorder, a debilitating illness in your family or a twisted and convoluted view of religion doesn't matter. This book goes so much deeper than the events into the heart of what God truly wants for us. Emily quotes many times throughout her book the whisper from God that I'm certain changed her life.

Watch Me take care of you.

And who of us doesn't want to see the Hand of God in our lives?


Find an excerpt here. Or a book trailer here. Or Emily herself here.

Thank you to Emily Wierenga, Nuts About Books Blogger program and Baker Publishing for the opportunity to review this amazing book. I received the book free of charge in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review of A Beauty So Rare by Tamera Alexander

Book #2 in Tamera Alexander's Belmont Mansion Series is well written, exquisitely described and thoroughly enjoyable.

Publisher's Blurb:

Pink is not what Eleanor Braddock ordered, but maybe it would soften the tempered steel of a woman who came through a war--and still had one to fight.

Plain, practical Eleanor Braddock knows she will never marry, but with a dying soldier's last whisper, she believes her life can still have meaning and determines to find his widow. Impoverished and struggling to care for her ailing father, Eleanor arrives at Belmont Mansion, home of her aunt, Adelicia Acklen, the richest woman in America--and possibly the most demanding, as well. Adelicia insists on finding her niece a husband, but a simple act of kindness leads Eleanor down a far different path--building a home for destitute widows and fatherless children from the Civil War. While Eleanor knows her own heart, she also knows her aunt will never approve of this endeavor.

Archduke Marcus Gottfried has come to Nashville from Austria in search of a life he determines, instead of one determined for him. Hiding his royal heritage, Marcus longs to combine his passion for nature with his expertise in architecture, but his plans to incorporate natural beauty into the design of the widows' and children's home run contrary to Eleanor's wishes. As work on the home draws them closer together, Marcus and Eleanor find common ground--and a love neither of them expects. But Marcus is not the man Adelicia has chosen for Eleanor, and even if he were, someone who knows his secrets is about to reveal them all.

I love Tamera's stories. Her beautiful writing draws me in as a reader and entices my heart and my mind. This book was no exception. The beauty of the book comes out in the theme of

Book Review of Love Comes Calling by Siri Mitchell

What a wild, fun ride for readers who love humor, history and endearing, captivating characters.

Publisher's Blurb:

A girl with the best of intentions. A heart set on Hollywood. An empty pocketbook.
That's all it takes for Ellis Eton to find herself working as a telephone operator for a look-alike friend. For Ellis, this job will provide not only acting practice but the funds to get her a start in the movies. She's tired of always being a disappointment to her traditional Boston family, and though she can't deny the way he makes her head spin, she knows she's not good enough for Griffin Phillips, either. It's simple: avoid Griff's attentions, work, and get paid. But in typical Ellis fashion, her simple plan spirals out of control when she overhears a menacing phone call...with her very own Griff as the target.
With an endearing heroine as her lead, Siri Mitchell takes readers on a madcap tale of love and discovering one's true desires!

This is my first read from Siri L Mitchell. It was a wonderfully fun read - like taking a trip down the rabbit hole on the heels of Alice in Wonderland. The characters were lively and fun; especially the main heroine, Ellis Eton. Mitchell writes her in first person point of view and brings the reader right into the crazy and roller-coaster-ed thoughts of this undoubtedly ADD character. It was at times dizzy-ing to keep up but I felt that Siri Mitchell did an excellent job of bringing a balance back to the reader.

The story was

Book review of Fired Up by Mary Connealy

Fired Up is book 2 in the Trouble in Texas series. I did not have a chance to read book 1 but feel book 2 is sufficient as a stand alone. There are some plot issues that occur in book 1 relevant to book 2 however Mary Connealy does a fine job of keeping you abreast of the information you need.


Publisher's Blurb: Dare Riker is a doctor who saves lives, but someone seems determined to end his. It may have something to do with the traitors he dealt with during the Civil War, or it might be related to the recent incident with Flint Greer and the ranch. Whoever the culprit is, he or she seems really fired up, and Dare can't let his guard down for a moment, which is a challenge, since right now he's trying to win the heart of the recently widowed Glynna.

Glynna Greer came west as a mail-order bride and ended up in a bad situation. Now her husband, Flint, is dead, and she's determined to care for her son and daughter on her own. She wants to believe Dare Riker is as decent as he seems, but she's terrified to lock herself into another marriage. She plans to support her small family by opening a diner--never mind that cooking is not her greatest talent.

Glynna can't help but notice that danger follows Dare wherever he goes. There's the avalanche. And then the fire. But things really get out of hand when someone plunges a knife from Glynna's diner into Dare's back. Are Flint's cronies still plotting revenge? Is Glynna's son engaged in a misguided attempt to protect his mother? Is a shadowy outsider still enraged over past injustices? And can Dare survive long enough to convince Glynna to take another chance on love?

Let me break this down as simply as I can: I really struggled with this book. I did not enjoy it like I had hoped to. Previously I've read the Kincaid Brides Series and positively reviewed two of her books (here and here); but this one was not on par with my earlier experience.

However in light of that, I have read many other bloggers who have posted reviews of Fired Up and there have been several four and five star reviews. So let me do my best to give you precise comments from my opinion to help you with your decision. 

Let me start with what I did like. 

The characters in the story were interesting. I especially enjoyed the Regulators. Although it took me quite awhile to keep straight who was who (this may have been easier if I'd had the chance to read book 1), their story lines were very complimentary. I loved the way they supported each other and brought different strengths to the team. I also appreciated Dare's core struggle of being a Doctor without any formal schooling and feeling like a fake. Mary Connealy did a great job of his arc throughout the story. The ending and resolution came along too quickly though. I really needed to see him wrestle through the steps of the acceptance of his calling.

I also enjoyed her settings - the drastic and often unforgiving rock wilderness was a treat to picture. The town and the locations felt very realistic and easy to imagine.

The plot of the story Fired Up is based on a woman trying to stand on her own two feet after several painful relationships and a man struggling with his calling in life to be a doctor - though not properly trained.  I liked the premise stated on the back cover of the Dr having to clean up her "cooking mishaps". However when the story started to unfold the plot premise was weak. Men were returning for horrible food day after day because ... she was pretty.  Even the Good Doctor himself ate her food in order to ... look at her.  I needed a much deeper motivation. 

Once the flow of the story took over and the threats against the Doctor's life began taking shape the read became easier to follow. Yet the story arc of Glynna felt unstable as well. She flitted back and forth between swooning over the doctor and resisting the Doctor. I didn't "feel" her much. I did like the reason behind her flits - her angry son - desperate to protect his ma. Yet, this needed to be explored deeper than just a short fuse in the boy. His big hurts in his little life must be so deep and so raw and so complex. The story wraps up too quick at the end with a fast proposal and a run for the preacher. The boy seems to just give in and allow it and then they live "happily ever after". I would have loved to see this fleshed out.

In the past I have enjoyed the easy flow of Mary's writing. It has been for me a fun, quick read that doesn't take too much work with lots of humor. This book didn't have the same easy feeling. The thoughts seemed choppy and repetitive. The writing felt forced feed. Perhaps if I hadn't struggled so much with this I would have enjoyed the entire book a lot more. To me this was the deal breaker. I am not interested in reading book three. However, I have not given up on Mary Connealy's books altogether. I will look forward to a new series coming in the future.

Reading (and writing) is such a personal experience. Please peruse other people's opinions and make your own decision. 


"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group". 

Book Review of A Million Little Ways by Emily P. Freeman

Uncover the art you were made to live.

Publisher's Blurb:
Do you desperately fear you have nothing to offer the world but secretly hope you're wrong? 
You were born to make art. You were made to live art. You might not see yourself as an artist, but you are--in so many unexpected ways. In what you create, whether poetry or pie, sculpture or sand castle, calligraphy or conversation. It's time to uncover the shape of your soul, turn down the voice of the inner critic, and move into the world with the courage to be who you most deeply are. 
Creating a life of meaning is not about finding that one great thing you were made to do, it's about knowing the one great God you were made to glorify--in a million little ways.

This amazing little book is jammed packed with golden nuggets of all shapes and sizes ... a million different ways you can gain insight, inspiration and courage packed into this wonderful item.  Emily P Freeman has done a wonderful job of breaking down barriers, opening dark closets and sweeping out unused corners in my life from her book A Million Little Ways. A true delight.

Originally I found her poetic style of writing a little confusing and even distracting. However the more I dove into the book and allowed her whimsical flow to rest with me, the more I began to see and understand her message. It isn't a

Book Review of Stranded by Dani Pettrey

Book 3 of the Alaskan Courage Series is a delightful read. Again Dani Pettrey creates a suspenseful story around strong and relevant characters. I enjoyed Gage and Darcy's story.

Book Blurb: When her friend vanishes from a cruise ship, reporter Darcy St. James isn’t satisfied with their explanation that she simply left her job of her own accord. Something isn’t lining up, and Darcy believes the only way to find the truth is to put herself in Abby’s position.

Within days, Darcy learns her friend wasn’t the only person to disappear mysteriously. Last summer, a woman vanished under almost identical circumstances.

Gage McKenna has taken a summer-long stint leading adventure excursions for the passengers of various cruise lines that dock for a few days of sightseeing. He’s surprised to find Darcy working aboard one of the ships, investigating a troubling report.

Something sinister is going on, and the deeper they dig, the more Gage fears they’ve only discovered the tip of the iceberg.

The character of Gage had interested me from the earlier stories. I thoroughly enjoyed him being flushed out even more in this exciting excursion through the Alaskan waters. If you aren't familiar with the first two books in this set then check them out on Dani Pettrey's website or find my reviews of Submerged and Shattered on my blog.

For those readers familiar with the previous books and with Dani's wonderfully simple and beautifully executed writing will be happy to know that the McKenna clan make an appearance through this story. The plot picks up about five months after the end of Shattered. Darcy and Gage haven't spoken since she left Alaska. But neither have missed counting a day since. And that's a great place for a romance to start.

If readers are looking for excitement and adventure, both within the story and the setting, they will love this new addition.  

As well, Dani invites us into the nagging secrets that surround secondary character Jake. It is a wonderfully intricate back story that brings so much to light about the quiet character. I really loved this part of the story. It added a whole thread that I wasn't expecting. And who knows ... maybe a fourth book about Kayden and Jake?

Visit Dani's website for more exciting news of upcoming things for the talented author. She even has a soundtrack, Pinterest boards and videos to augment the stories of the Alaskan Courage Series on her Reader Fun Page. Also, if you were following the Alaskan Adventure Sweepstakes, the winners are announced on her site.

Be sure to check Dani Pettrey out. And also go to your local store and buy her latest book.

Thanks to Baker Publishing and Dani Pettrey for the free review copy of this book. I was not required to give a positive review. This is my honest opinion.

Book Review of Made To Last by Melissa Tagg

If you buy one book this year ... make it this one!


That is a line I try very hard not to use. There are so many books out there that I  love and I want all my friends (and strangers) to read. But seriously ... it can get old.

Then along comes a book that I can't resist saying it anymore. Melissa Tagg's debut novel, Made To Last is my year's top pick for sure.

Publisher's blurb:  Miranda Woodruff has it all. At least, that's how it looks when she's starring in her homebuilding television show, From the Ground Up. So when her network begins to talk about making cuts, she'll do anything to boost ratings and save her show--even if it means pretending to be married to a man who's definitely not the fiance who ran out on her three years ago. 

When a handsome reporter starts shadowing Miranda's every move, all his digging into her personal life brings him a little too close to the truth--and to her. Can the girl whose entire identity is wrapped up in her on-screen persona finally find the nerve to set the record straight? And if she does, will the life she's built come crashing down just as she's found a love to last?

This story was engaging. The best part for me was that it seemed the plot was resolving at the midway point through the book. At first you may think that sounds bad - predictable plot, blah, blah, blah.  But it isn't bad. It was exciting that I thought I knew where we were going and how the ends would tie together but then I'd see the solid inches left of unread pages still in my right hand.  It was enthralling!

Tagg's characters were fantastic. I loved getting inside Miranda and Matthew's frame of mind. They felt real and almost touchable. Usually my head is controlled by the characters of my own writings that roam around and rule the roost of my brain. I push them aside while I open a novel and then when I close the book, they come right back, front and center. However for the three or four days I poured into Made To Last my mind was fully and completely consumed with Melissa's characters. They tugged on  my heart and teased my thoughts and perceptions. They truly came alive to me.

The book also contains group discussion questions at the end.

I can't wait to see what Melissa Tagg will do next!

If there is such a thing as a perfect story, Melissa Tagg has written it with this first novel. Laugh-out-loud funny, a delightful premise, hunky heroes, surprising plot twists and poignant, heart-tugging moments, all wound together with beautiful writing. Made to Last is a keeper that will charm its way onto your shelf, and into your heart.

Susan May Warren, RITA Award winner and bestselling author of Take a Chance on Me 

 So, who wants to read it?



Thanks to Baker Publishing for the free copy of Made To Last for reviewing purposes. I was not required to review it positively.

Book Review - Trapped by Irene Hannon

A runaway teen, a desperate sister, and an intrepid PI determined to discover the truth 
When Laura Griffith's sixteen-year-old sister disappears on a frigid February day, leaving only a brief note behind, Laura resolves to do whatever it takes to track down the runaway teen. That includes recruiting ATF agent turned private investigator James Devlin to help. Dev knows time is of the essence with runaways--just forty-eight hours can mean the difference between recovery and ruin.

But the deeper he and Laura dig, the more Dev begins to suspect that something sinister is at work in the girl's disappearance. And in the icy winter weather, the trail is going cold . . . 


Now what sounds better than that for a curl-up read in front of a warm fireplace as Fall is settling in?

I really enjoyed Irene Hannon's book, Trapped. It is book 2 in her Private Justice Series. I haven't read book 1, Vanished. Yet, as her website states, "all books that are part of a series can be read as stand-alone novels." After reading Trapped I am definitely going to find myself a copy of Vanished.

Let's get started ... the characters in Trapped are rich and endearing. I loved the PI in particular. His personality and his charm were fun to read. There are many POV's in this story - which is not normally my favorite reading but I found once I got into the flow of each character I wanted to stay there. Very well done.

The plot was engaging, unpredictable and emotionally stirring. Probably the best review I could give for this book is that I couldn't put it down. I would bring it along with me in the car in case I had to wait for 3 minutes for my kids. I read it on my work breaks, while food cooked and at bedtime. It followed me everywhere just so I could read even a page or paragraph - anything to get me closer to the end. I even took a "mental health" day to sit on my porch in the warm sun to finish the last half of the book.

I recommend this book to anyone who like suspense, intriguing and unpredictable characters and a sweet dose of romance.

If you don't want to take my word for it, check out Irene's book trailer and excerpt for yourself.


"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group". 

Book Review - That Certain Summer by Irene Hannon

Two very different sisters . . . an unexpected homecoming . . . one unforgettable summer

Karen and Val are family--yet they're anything but close. Karen has carried the burden of responsibility for her aging mother ever since her sister left town years ago to pursue a career in theater. But Val had other reasons for moving away--as well as a secret to keep--and coming home has never been an option . . . until their mother suffers a stroke.

Reunited in their hometown, Karen and Val must grapple with past mistakes as they care for their ailing mother. When two handsome men enter the picture, the summer takes on a surprising new dimension. As their lives intersect, can each of them learn how to forgive, let go, and move on? And strengthened by the healing power of faith, might they also find the courage to love?

With her trademark compelling characters and heartwarming hope, award-winning author Irene Hannon pens an inspiring true-to-life tale of complex relationships, the search for forgiveness, and the life-changing process of finding love.

Irene Hannon is known for her romantic suspense stories and is a prolific and well-decorated author. That Certain Summer takes a slight right, returning to a previous love as she drops the suspense and focuses solely on the romance plot. Although she has written more than thirty-five books this is the first one I have read of hers. Overall, I found the story enjoyable.

I thought Irene put a lot of attention to detail in creating her characters. Karen, the good girl and Val, the pretty and talented one are so different and yet so much alike - very typical for sisters. Their tense relationship has been created by a critical mother, pitting the girls against each other. Neither is looking forward to their summer working together taking care of their mother after her stroke. Yet, as God is so good, He uses that which we fear to teach us more about ourselves and those close to us. The women realize how much of each other they have in their own qualities. Hannon does an excellent job of portraying this in her writing.

The male counterparts, Scott and David are also well-written characters. Their personal journeys feel realistic and the affectionate feelings that develops between them and the sisters is a sweet love affair. The struggles the men face are deep; a single father and a man broken and lost after a tragic accident. Both men have to turn to God to find the true path they are to follow. All four of these characters have their own focused point of view.

There are a many supporting characters that

Book Review - Revealing Jesus by Darlene Zschech

I broke the cardinal rule of books!

"Never judge a book by its cover."

Too late. This book is beautiful to hold and to skim pages, to touch and also to read. Everything about it is gorgeous which makes it a perfect GIFT book.



Revealing Jesus is a 365 day devotional coming from the heart of acclaimed Worship leader, Darlene Zschech. Each daily entry has a verse to prompt your thoughts. There are a lot of entries from the Psalms, drawing you into honest worship and adoration. Each page then describes a thought or insight or story inspiring you to focus on Jesus and is followed by a short prayer. It was encouraging to see the heart of this woman in her words and stories. (Watch a video on the heart behind her book and accompanying CD.)

The pages are dated from January 1st to December 31st. The actual reading on the pages is minimal - a quick and easy activity for every day - much like reading a Daily Bread entry. Each month has a beautifully crafted cover page with hand-scripted lyrics to hymns and songs. Again ... Beautiful!

Book Blurb:

Powerful Encounters With the Heart of Our Savior For Every Day

Do you long for more of God's presence? Do you ache to see Him at work in your life? Do you desire His peace and rest? Renowned worship leader Darlene Zschech invites you to gather with her around the Word of God. Born out of her own yearnings that she poured onto the pages of journals, these meditations and Scriptures reveal Jesus and speak of His finished work--how He tenderly cares for you and wants you to know Him.

Honest, raw, and beautifully written, these devotions will inspire your journey and encourage you in every season. Come, sit at the feet of our Lord, be strengthened in your weakness, embrace His love for you, and breathe in His peace.

I recommend this book to anyone wanting a brief scriptural reading for each day. It is also a wonderful gift idea for a Grad or on Mother's Day or any day as a matter of fact.

Thanks to Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin for the free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Book Review - What A Son Needs From His Mom by Cheri Fuller

Do you have a son? 

Then you will need this book!  Cheri Fuller's book is a fantastic resource for any mom trying to raise her son.  The back cover copy says:

Ever Feel Like Your Son Is From a Different Planet?

Don't worry, Mom. There's a good reason why your son perplexes you. He's the OPPOSITE sex! Boys really do think, communicate, and process the world differently than girls. But no matter your son's age, he needs you, and he needs you in not-so-apparent ways.

With page after page of use-it-today advice and encouraging stories, this book will help you steer your son toward becoming a caring, confident young man.

From the very beginning of the book I found helpful advice, encouraging words and hundreds of "ah-ha" moments. Fuller's open and honest approach places the reader at ease. She tackles the hard questions with kindness and insight. She balances the technical information with the emotional aspect very well.

Each chapter has Reflection Questions for using in a group setting, or alone allowing you to dig deeper into your own parenting experience. I read the book on my own but

Book Review - Shattered by Dani Pettrey

I read the first book in this series (Submerged) and thoroughly enjoyed it,  making my anticipation for book two intense. Dani Pettrey offers the second book in her Alaskan Courage Series with Shattered.

Piper McKenna couldn’t be more thrilled that her prodigal brother, Reef, has returned to Yancey, Alaska, after five years. But her happiness is short-lived when Reef appears at her house covered in blood. A fellow snowboarder has been killed. Despite the evidence, Reef swears he’s innocent. And Piper believes him.

Deputy Landon Grainger loves the McKennas like family, but he’s also sworn to find the truth, and he knows those closest to you have the power to deceive you the most. With the sheriff pushing for a quick conviction, pursuing the truth in this case could mean the end of Landon’s career.

As Piper wages her own search, the two head deep into Canada’s rugged back country–and unexpected complications. Not only does their long friendship seem to be turning into something more, but the search for answers is becoming deadlier with each step.

I was very happy to see the book followed up on the hinted love story from book one between Landon and Piper. Pettrey's characters are lively and realistic. I love Piper's tenacity countered by Landon's sturdiness. They make an intriguing couple, only deepened by the long history they have as friends.

I found the action and suspense inviting and fast moving. The plot moved along covering many different locations and even more pitfalls. Pettrey writes a great romantic suspense!

Overall, the plot and characters are a hit. A good read.