SEASIDE LETTERS by Denise Hunter

If you liked the movie "You've Got Mail", then you will love this story. I was hooked after just reading the first couple of pages. I like it when a story makes me sit up and pay attention or I will miss something, and this book started out that way for me. Sabrina is working at a local cafe on Nantucket Island (a place described in such a way that I would love to go and visit), and doing research for a local author, Renny. She finds herself serving a certain gentleman, Tucker McCabe, at the Cafe every day at the same time. She knows that he is the person she has been getting to know through a chat line on the computer, but she can't let him know who she is because of a situation that happened to her before she met him (which I won't tell you about, because it is better to discover some things by reading the book).

The craziness of it is that Tucker knows she is the lady on-line, and wants her to admit it, but feels if he reveals he knows, she will run from him. So they both play the game of not knowing. In order to get closer to her, Tucker hires her to come to his house read his e-mails and see if she can find clues to help him locate his mystery girl. It gets really hard to keep track of who knows what after awhile, but I loved the plot line and the craziness of it all.

I also enjoyed the author's note at the end, how she weaved in the fact that Sabrina is alot like people who feel they want to hide from God because of a shame over a sin they have committed, and don't feel they can be truly loved. Tucker is like our heavenly Father who loves us and is pursuing us and wants us to come to Him and trust Him fully. But He doesn't force Himself on us, He wants us to want Him.

The ending in the rain was one of the best romantic scenes as I pictured it in my mind and loved the way the author ended the story. It was a fun read, with some sad moments. But it just showed that a moment of weakness can have devastating affects which really do influence alot more people then we might know. Tucker was so patient and understanding which is a great quality and so ready to forgive, another great quality. You will want to give yourself some time to read, because when you pick up this story, you are going to want to read it straight through!

I would also like to thank whoever did the cover on this book. They obviously read the story and did a good job of putting alot of details in the story on the cover!

TEXAS TENDER by Sharon Gillenwater

This book could be easily read as a stand-alone story, although there are two other books (Love Song & Antiques) that were written before this one and would help you know some of the other characters in this book better. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. I learned something about the growing of watermelons and the rabid animal epidemic that was in Texas. But what I took from the book more than anything is that we can and should trust the Lord in all our circumstances. We may not always understand why some things happen in this lifetime, but we can know "that in all things God works for the good of those who love him." As the author said, "Our job is to cling to his promise and let him do his work. Easily said, but not easily done."

Shelby Nolan has just found out she has inherited a watermelon farm in West Texas, but she has to share the farm with Deputy Logan Slade. Logan has helped work the farm since Jim took him in as a teenager. He always assumed Jim would leave the farm to him, so he was a little set back to discover that Jim had left half of it to Shelby, the grand-daughter of Jim's long lost love. The instant chemistry between Shelby and Logan will not disappoint those looking for some good romance. The suspicious digging going on around the farm will not disappoint those looking for just a little mystery. And the rabid coyotes will add some danger to the story. I espcially enjoyed the way Shelby interacted with all the characters. She had two older gentlemen as neighbors and it was fun to watch how she handled them in the story. She was one likable woman, but had to face some issues with trust.

This was a quick read for me, 269 pages, but it went by very fast, with a Christian theme to the story.

FOREVERMORE by Cathy Marie Hake

This was a real hoot to read. I just fell in love with Hope Ladley. Jakob Stauffer saw Hope as not tall or short, not skinny or plump, not gorgeous but not ugly; she was just Hope, and "one of the most endearing traits, though, was her spontaneity. No matter what she did, she did it with joy. Her zest for life shone like the brightest star". I had a smile on my face most of the way through this book, especially when Hope would say one of her crazy cliches.
Hope is like a dandelion in the wind, she goes from one farm to the next, wherever she feels God directing her, where she helps out until she feels she needs to move on. In the beginning of the book she finds herself pulling into the Stauffer farm right before harvest. She knows this is where she is suppose to be as Jakob is trying to raise his little girl, take care of his pregnant sister and bring in the harvest. Hope jumps right in and becomes the stable force in the lives of everyone. Jakob is still feeling the loss of his wife, Annie is pregnant and fearful her abusive husband will come for her and little Emmy-Lou is a sweetheart that also has an obstacle to overcome. Hope is the answer they all need and you can't help but love her! But Hope doesn't stay in one place long, so can they convince her that she can stay with them "forevermore".
I don't usually think about re-reading a story after having just finished it, but I could read this one again, just for the pleasure of it. As a sidelight, as also loved the cover. This is one of Cathy Marie Hake's best stories I have read so far!

UNLOCKED by Karen Kingsbury

Holden Harris is a 18 year old child who is locked in his own world with autism. Despite his unusual behavior at times, he seems content and happy in his own little world; even if he is sometimes picked on by some at school.
Ella Reynolds finds herself running with the "in" people at her school. But she quickly discovers how cruel they can be and begins to devote herself to the school play and helping Holden become a part of the musical "Beauty and the Beast". Ella soon discovers that her and Holden use to be playmates when they were very young, before Holden became autistic. So what happened to Holden and why did her parents suddenly stop being friends with Holden's folks?
There were many facets to this story and as usual Karen Kingsbury makes these people so real you feel that the story is really true. Holden though is not the only person in the story who is "locked" in a world of his own. You have the problems kids face at school with bullying, the problem Holden's dad couldn't face regarding his son and how he dealt with it and many more folks who had to "unlock" their narrow way of thinking and open themselves up to God's possibilities in their life. This was a beautifully written story and my heart was moved having read it.

EVIDENCE of MURDER by Jill Elizabeth Nelson

Samantha Reid is cleaning up an old dry cleaning business that she has bought when her and her friends stumble upon an old roll of film. When they get it developed is becomes evidence that opens up a 10 year old multiple homicide case. The problem is someone wants the case kept closed and will do anything to keep answers from being uncovered. Ryan Davidson is the sole survivor when his family was murdered 10 years ago. Although they don't instantly get along, both Ryan and Samantha find themselves working together to uncover the secret and unravel the 10 year old mystery.
I enjoyed the suspense and mystery in this story and the way both characters acted and reacted to each other and to the circumstances they found themselves in. A good love inspired suspense book!

DESERT FIRE by Marcia Lynn McClure

This was a quick and easy to read story, full of fun-romance, with some danger and mystery and a strong family bond. Malaina finds herself parched, sun-baked and staring into the eyes of Jackson McCall. She can't remember who she is and isn't even sure where she is. Jackson McCall is her rescuer who takes her back to his family home where his mother, Maggie, takes her in as the daughter she has always wanted. Jackson has two other brothers, Matthew and Baker and the 3 men make life very fun and interesting around their place. Bits and pieces of Alaina's memory slowly start to come back to her, but in the process Jackson finds himself risking his life to save her numerous times. In the end all 3 men find themselves a girl to cherish.

This was a fun story to read because the 3 brothers never took life too seriously, but handled each circumstance in life as it came and always seemed to have a positive attitude and a real close connection as a family. It doesn't mean they didn't share hardships because they did, but they didn't let the hardships get the best of them. I will enjoy reading more of Marcia Lynn McClure stories!

The FINDING of JASPER HOLT by Grace Livingston Hill

I begin my review of this book with the history of my love for this author, Grace Livingston Hill. I grew up reading her stories which I would get from my Grandmother every time I went to visit her. She had bookshelves of her books and I would always take a few home with me to read. I have since tried to collect all of her books in memory of my Grandmother. So I have a special fondness for these stories.
This story begins with a train wreck where Jean Grayson finds herself being rescued from death by Jasper Holt, a man folks don't have much good to say about. But the few days Jean has with stranger named Jasper proves to her that he really is a decent and good man deep down inside. Jasper knows her family will never aprove of him so he sets out to "prove his worth" to the townsfolk and be worthy of Jean. When a near fatal accident puts Jasper's life on the line, Jean finds herself rushing to his side no matter what people may think.
This is a story of how one good woman can change the heart of a man and show him there is good people in the world and how you live your life does make a difference in the world.

TWO TICKETS to the CHRISTMAS BALL by Donita K. Paul

What a charmingly delightful story. I was first impressed by the cover of the book and then I was fascinated by the storyline. Cora Crowder is getting ready for Christmas. As she searches for a gift she finds herself not far from her workplace at a most unusual bookshop, Warner, Werner and Wisbotterdad's Book Store. She unexpectedly runs into a co-worker there, Simon Derrick, who she has worked with for many years, but really never known. They both discover tickets for a one-of-a-kind Christmas Ball after having been to the bookstore.
You see the Sage Street bookshop has some matchmaking booksellers working there, as well as other folks working in other stores along Sage Street who have decided Simon and Cora need a little help in the romance department. This Christmas Simon and Cora will discover that their opposite personalities can be a perfect match.
I loved the whole fairy tale setting of Sage Street. I also enjoyed Simon's sister, Sandy, and her child-like ways, but with alot more insight than folks would give her credit for having. And then there is the Booterbaw sisters and their Costume Shoppe. I think my favorite section of the book is when they explained to Cora how she really was a princess and why; she was a child of the King!
I would like to thank WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for sending me this book for review. I am very glad I had the chance to read it and highly recommend the reading of it.
If you would like to watch a video trailer of this book go to:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lr3-m5YpQpU
Enjoy!

A MAN'S HEART by Lori Copeland

This book had several firsts for me in reading it. It was the first story I have read where the main characters were both potato growers in Washington. It was also the first where the lady backs out of her wedding not once but twice to the same man and all over her desire to study more on potatoes!
Jules has broke off her wedding to Cruz in the beginning of the book for the second time now and Cruz is not going to wait around for Jules this time, while she goes back to school for 4 years. Fast foward 4 years and you have Jules back in town, her Dad has died, her long lost sister is back in town and her best friend Sophie (Cruz's sister) has just found out she has cancer. Jules is now ready to commit to marriage but Cruz wants nothing to do with her. Whats a woman to do!
Although I enjoyed reading this book, I had a hard time with Jules whole thought process, where her love of studying and trying to raise the perfect potato would take precedence over committing to the love of her life, Cruz. And I really had a hard time with the way she treated her sister, Crystal (who I enjoyed alot). Some of Crystal's "mishaps" made me laugh out loud, as well as Cruz and his brother Adan trying to "potty train" their little niece.
I would work on the cover of the book as the lady on the front does not match the Jules described in the story. A special thanks to Zondervan and LibraryThing Early Reviewers for sending me this book for review. To check out the Zondervan link to this book go to http://zndr.vn/fmqF0j.

SHADOWS of SUSPICION by Ashley Dawn

This was another great story by Ashley Dawn. I am really liking the Reiley family and hope more stories are coming about the rest of the siblings.
Kerry Reiley is exhausted, just coming back from her brother's wedding to her apartment and job, but her life is turned upside down when she arrives home, and is kidnapped by a man out for revenge on one of her brothers. Luke Reeding is a man Rick Reiley can trust to get his sister back so he is called upon to find Kerry. Kerry has alot of spunk so it was interesting how much she "helped" Luke on her escape. Luke finds himself guarding Kerry until the madman is found and put away. There is definately an attraction going on between the two, but Kerry knows that giving her heart to an unbeliever would be wrong, even if it feels so right.
From the very first page I was hooked on this story. You just get to know the characters so well and the bond between the Reiley family is so refreshing. I can't wait to read another story about the Reileys! This series is on my list of favorites!

The TRIUMPH of JOHN and BETTY STAM by Mrs. Howard Taylor

What a testimony this book is of two people who made a difference for their Lord! This story is all about their life. It takes you through both John and Betty's growing up years, through college, their courtship, marriage, ministry, and their death, all for the cause of Christ. He was definately first in all they did. I was brought to tears at the end of the book, knowing all they endured for their Lord, but knowing the reward that awaited them in glory makes me smile knowing God greeted them with "well done thou good and faithful servant". I would encourage all to read this story!

DINING with JOY by Rachel Hauck

I feel this author gets better with each book she writes. This was my favorite in her "A Lowcountry Romance" series! It was witty, charming, and a "joy" to read.
Joy Ballard is the host of an up and coming cooking show that has been picked up by a major network. A slight problem though, Joy can't cook! Anything! (This was some of the fun of the story, but also hard to believe part of the story). She has had a great team behind her helping her "cover up" her inability to cook. Enter Luke Redmond, a creative, cute and jobless chef who has lost his Manhattan restaurant to bankruptcy. He joins Joy's team and Joy sees her way out of cooking, by handing the cooking part over to Luke, while she does the "stand up comic" part of cooking. Their relationship seems to simmer on the air and off, but when Joy's cooking secret (she can't cook) is revealed her reputation is ruined, she fears she is losing Luke and things at home aren't going so well either. Can Joy figure out what God's will for her life is?
I really enjoyed the interaction and "sizzle" between Luke and Joy. I also got a kick out of Joy's Mom and appreciated the way Joy related to her neices. Although this book can be easily read as a stand alone, if you read the other two in the series first, you will understand some of the other characters mentioned in the book better. But if you only read one book in this series, I recommend you choose this one; it is my favorite!

The HEART of a MAN by Deb Kastner

This was a delightful quick romance story. Dustin Fairfax doesn't care so much about appearances or money, unless it comes to helping people. But in order for him to acquire his trust fund his late father left to him, he must have a "make over" to prove he is worthy of the money. Isobel Buckley is an image consultant who has been given the task of "improving" Dustin. Image is everything, or so Isobel thought, until she met and got to know the real Dustin Fairfax. Her client's kind heart quickly showed her that it is what is in the heart of a man that really matters.
I enjoyed reading this story and thought it had a good message to go with it. It doesn't take that long to read but it was a nice refreshing time for me.

A LOVE So STRONG by Arlene James

This for me was just a feel good romance story and I really enjoyed it. Pastor Marcus Wheeler would sure like God to send him a good woman to fall in love with and marry, but when Nicole Archer walks into his life, he is pretty sure she isn't that woman. She is to young for him and a little too unconventional in her dress for a pastor's wife. But he does need to help her with her dilemna at home with her alcoholic father and her 13 year old brother. The problem is he can't stop his feelings for her that continue to grow. I just enjoyed watching the two of them "fall in love" and at the same time wanting what God wanted for them in their life. As the author said in her book, God has a plan and if the plan wasn't what we thought it would be our job as his child is to sublimate our desires to His will. Because in the end we will see that God's plans are indeed perfect and beautiful and done with love. Good job Arlene James!

PREACHER MAN by Laurie Larsen

My rating on this book doesn't have so much to do with how the book was written, because I thought the story line was interesting and the characters seemed real. Regan Samuels is a newly divorced Mom with a teenage son struggling to work through the change in her life at this time. She finds herself at a Charity Auction as one of the prizes on bidding on a date. Josh Gregory is a pastor who "bids" and wins a date with Regan. Regan has no religious interest or background but dating Josh has opened a whole new world to her.
I don't want to get long and involved in my review, so let's just say I had a hard time with the whole dating a non-believer, especially as a Pastor. This just wasn't a story I agreed with completely even though the author did a good job of writing it. I thought one of the best parts of the book was when Regan was talking to a group of young people and she said, "Do you ever feel like it's all up to you? That everything in your life is yours alone to figure out, to work through?. . . . God doesn't force his way, uninvited, into our day-to-day lives. He waits until we're ready for Him. . . . If we have our heads in the sand - like I have, most my life - and don't know that we're ready for Him, He sends us something else - a person, a situation - which makes us realize that we need to rely on Him.." And that is what God did for Regan in this story.

MAGGIE'S TRUST by Donna Boden

This is a story of Maggie and her quest to learn to trust and forgive all over again. Maggie has always had her eye on Jake McCormick, so when he finally starts to notice Maggie things begin to happen fast. But Jake had a bad first marriage, so trusting women isn't his strong point. Jake leads wagon trains west to Oregon; so when he leaves this time, he breaks Maggie's trust and heart. Jake discovers although he is thousands of miles away, he can't forget about his girl Maggie. But when he returns, can Maggie ever trust him again with her heart. They both need to discover the true meaning of love as God designed it.
This was a new author for me and I thought she did a great job. I enjoyed reading this story and hated to see the story end. There is another book coming out in the series about Maggie's sister and Jake's brother and I look forward to reading it.

JILLIAN DARE by Melanie M. Jeschke

If you are a big fan of the classic "Jane Eyre" and would like to read a contemporary story inspired by "Jane Eyre" then you are going to love "Jillian Dare". I have a soft spot for the whole story line of this book, so I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. Jillian has landed a job as a nanny at a large estate in Virginia. Cadence Remington is the little girl she has charge over while the father stays busy running his business. As Jillian gets to know the moody employer, Ethan, she finds herself falling for her boss. But when his dark secrets come out, Jillian must make some hard decisions.
I thought this was a very well written story and appreciated the 3 types of readers the author was attempting to satsify (see the author's note at the end of the story). It made me want to read the classic all over again, but also made me appreciate the modern day version that this author has written so well. Well done Melanie M. Jeschke; I look forward to reading more of your work!

SHADOWS From The PAST by Ashley Dawn

This was a story for me that I couldn't put down until I had it read. It kept me reading from the very first action packed scene, wanting to see what was going to happen next.
Aurora Kavven is a LAPD officer who is haunted with dreams of watching her brother Lance die before her very eyes. She has let it destroy her relationship with her once upon a time fiancee and her relationship with her God. But when she suddenly becomes a target herself she finds herself face to face once again with her God and with her former fiancee, FBI agent Jordan Reiley. Jordan will do anything to keep Aurora safe.

This was a fast paced, "who did it" story line, with alot of heart felt feelings from both Jordan and Aurora that I really appreciated. You will want to definately give yourself some time when you start reading, because it is a hard book to put down. I would love to see more stories written about some of the other characters in this story!

A PLAIN & SIMPLE CHRISTMAS by Amy Clipston

This was a feel good Christmas novella. It is a great story to read around the Christmas holidays because it puts you in the mood for Christmas.
Anna Mae McDonough left her Amish community four years ago to marry a non-Amish man. Although she and her husband are happily married and enjoying their life together, Anna Mae is expecting their first child soon and misses her close knit Amish family, epsecially around holidays. With the help of her sister-in-law they plan a surprise visit for Christmas. But her brother isn't thrilled with his wife's participation in this "surprise" and Anna Mae's Dad does not welcome her visit. Can the family really get back together again and enjoy the Christmas spirit of forgiveness and peace?
This had alot of good lessons to learn throughout the story. I especially enjoyed the interaction and care that Anna Mae and her husband, Kellan had for each other. This was my first book by Amy Clipston, and I look forward to reading more of her books. I also loved the cover of this book, and want to thank LibraryThing Early Reviewers and Zondervan for sending me this book for review. If you want you can go to http://zndr.vn/aZzVXI to get more info. about this book.

THE HUSBAND TREE by Mary Connealy

Mary Connealy does such a good job of writing lighthearted romantic and fun stories. I always come away feeling refreshed from reading one of her books.
This story is about Belle Tanner, a hard working woman, who has married and buried 3 lousy husbands and has no intention of marrying again! She has 4 daughters who can handle the ranch as good as any man and who are out to make sure their mother doesn't marry a no-good lazy husband again.
The problem; Belle has to take 1,000 head of cattle to market and she and her girls can't do it alone, so she needs to find some cowpokes. This is where Silas Harden comes into the picture. He has been twiced burned by women and has no desire whatsoever to get involved with them again. But he needs work so signs up for the cattle drive (not realizing the other workers on this drive are Belle and her daughters!) Belle soon learns she needs and can trust Silas and Silas soon learns he needs and wants to protect Belle and her daughters from danger.
The way these two argue, fight and solve their disputes is always fun to read. The trials on the trail and the adventures will make you want to keep reading until the book is done, and then wishing is wasn't.
There is another story going on in this book with a captured Shoshone woman, who is white, and the cowhand, Wade, who wants to rescue her if only she would let him. This story I believe will be the focus of book #3.

EMILY'S CHANCE by Sharon Gillenwater

This was another good story in the Callahans of Texas series! I like a guy who knows what he wants and goes after it and that is exactly what Chance Callahan did in this story. He knew from the first time they met that Emily Rose was the gal for him. The problem is Emily Rose is only in the small Texas town to get the Callahan Historical Museum up and running and add it to her resume so she can get a job as a big city museum curator. She didn't plan on Chance, the cowboy contractor who sets out to woo her and does a really good job of it in my opinion. This was a good romantic read with alot of Texas charm, and I look forward to reading more about Callahan family in the future!

THE HIDDEN HEART by Jane Orcutt

This was a great sequel to "The Fugitive Heart".
Elizabeth Carmeron is 19 and has had a very troubled past. She has decided to take her 5 year old Indian son and move to Belton, Texas to leave her past and men behind her. She has seen her Mom and sister killed by Indians, was raised by Indians and later abused by them. Her father, upon her escape, treated her with contempt and cruelty. Upon his death she is finally free! But fear for her son Joseph makes her keep a terrible secret, that he is not her son, she is just raising an Indian boy.
Caleb Martin has secretly been assigned, by Elizabeth's brother, to travel with her and keep an eye on her for awhile. In doing so he will gain a governor's pardon for his past mistakes (which you can read about the the first book). They were brought together by God and though they each fight their feelings for each other, the love they have cannot be kept hidden. The problem is they both have a past they need to explain to each other and deal with themselves.
Elizabeth feels she has to work to obtain holiness and the dear lady she cares for, Anna, has to teach her "we aren't holy because of our work for the Lord but because of the Lord's work for us. In us." There was so much good godly wisdom from Anna in this story. She did so much to soften and bring together two strong willed people, Elizabeth and Caleb.
There was tragedy, love, danger and alot of forgiveness in the story and I thoroughly enjoyed reading this series. I only wish more stories would have followed, as there were other characters I would have liked to known more about.

The FUGITIVE HEART by Jane Orcutt

This story gets added to my favorites list because it was so good. There were ALOT of twists and turns to the story and it never went the direction I thought it would go which kept me wondering what would take place next. It spanned alot of years but kept you focused and interested in all the characters. It is a story of learning about true love, forgiveness and an acceptance of God and Him knowing what is best for us, no matter the circumstances.
Samantha loved growing up on the Kansas prairie with her brother Caleb and his best friend Nathan and their families. She just wanted to love God and someday grow up and marry Nathan, her childhood sweetheart. But the War between the States breaks out and Samantha has her home, her parents and her brother and best friend taken from her. Fast forward 6 years and she is shocked to be reunited with her brother and Nathan, but neither are the "boys" she grew up with. They are now physically and emotionally scarred men who she later finds out are hiding from the law, for theft and murder. But Samantha still loves her brother and Nathan and although her love can cause her to make wrong choices, she never gives up on her God and His ability to change a life. You won't regret reading this story!

DISCIPLINES of a GODLY WOMAN by Barbara Hughes

Barbara Hughes does a great job of dealing with the many disciplines of a Godly woman; disciplines of submission, worship, contentment, marriage, and many more. But she stress that "the true heart of spiritual discipline is a relationship with God". Having a disciplined mindset gives real purpose and meaning to your day to day lifestyle. She uses God's word throughout her book to back up what she is saying, so it isn't just a book of Barbara's opinions, but God's word.
To quote the author, "The 'dread' of a disciplined life will be replaced with desire and anticipation as you find that there is no greater purpose than loving Him in every moment, every activity, and every thought."

She also gives you a wealth of good resources at the back of her book. You will not be disappointed if you read this book. It is now one of my favorites.

IN THE SHADOW of EVIL by Robin Caroll

Robin Caroll does an excellent job of writing suspenseful mysteries with a message. This was another good story that had you wondering "who did it". I would like to thank the author and B & H Publishing for giving me a copy for review. This was an advanced reader copy, as the actual book is not available yet, but will be soon.
Although there are numerous characters you will get to know in this story it is mainly about Layla, a lady who has fought hard to make a name for herself in the construction business, and Maddox, a detective who loves his job, but is leary of getting too close to any one woman.
When a house Layla has just built is burnt to the ground, and a dead body is found murdered in the rubble, Maddox and his partner are called in to investigate. Both Layla and Maddox want to figure out who did it and why, but neither one wants to work with each other or trust each other. Both Layla and Maddox also have a problem with forgiveness with things that have happened in their past. I appreciated the way they each had to deal with it in their life and the peace that forgiveness brought to them.
This story kept me turning the pages to see what would happen next. I liked the banter between Maddox and his partner, the love and loyalty Layla and Alana had as sisters and the slow but steady feelings Maddox and Layla grew to have for each other. I also liked trying to figure out who the "bad guy" was. Another good job Robin Caroll!

SIMPLE GIFTS by Lori Copeland

Marlene Queens was just suppose to go "back home" to Parnass Springs, Missouri, to get her late Aunt Beth's house ready to sell and settle her estate. Then she was going to get "out of town" before anyone found out the lie she has been living. Folks there think she is happily married to Noel and has a daughter and 2 grandkids. The lie is that Noel left her shortly after her daughter Sara was born for another woman and has since passed away. But Marlene is too proud to admit she made a mistake by marrying and leaving Parness Springs. But Marlene didn't know how much her Aunt Ingrid would need her, how the town's wanting to put a statue up in memory of her father would cause such problems and how her heart longed to stay and reunite with her childhood sweetheart, Vic. Can Marlene let go of her pride, confess her life was a lie and will God give her the future she was always wanted?
This story had alot of humor in it, alot of crazy days for Marlene with her Aunt Ingrid, alot of sorrow over remembering how she treated her Dad, and alot of yearning for someone she thinks she can never share a life with. It will take a major storm to bring Marlene and Vic together, but will it be too late by then?
I enjoyed reading this story.

WITHIN MY HEART by Tamera Alexander

This whole series of books, Timber Ridge Reflections, was great. I got to know and love the folks of Timber Ridge and Tamera does such a good job. Alot of times when I read a series one of the books may not be as good as the others, but in this series it would be very hard to pick which one I liked the best, cause they were all good. I would like to thank Bethany House for sending me a free copy for review, and thank Tamera for also sharing a little bit of herself in her books. I especially felt blessed to read "A Note From Tamera" at the end of book 3. I appreciated her thoughts on the 2 main characters, Rand and Rachel, when she said, "Rand and Rachel each took steps of faith into the life God was calling them to, though they couldn't see what that life would look like. Because, like us, if they could see, then it wouldn't be faith."
This story is about Rachel Boyd, who is struggling to maintain her late husband's dream of a ranch for her two young boys. She is a very stubborn woman, who has a hard time forgiving and forgetting and seeing the good in some folks. She also has a tender heart, easily hurt.
Dr. Rand Brookston is a great doctor and person, who has come West to make a difference in the healthcare of this small town. He has had an interest in Rachel for quite awhile, even though she has shown no interest in him. When they both are needed to help the life of a dear friend, they have choices they must make and their feelings for each other become quite apparent.
I had a range of emotions while reading this story and even had to get out the Kleenex box during a part in this book. The whole series has become a "favorite" in my book collection. (I also want to say the the person who had charge of selecting the covers for these stories did a awesome job!)
I would like to leave my review with a quote from the book that really meant alot to me, where Rachel is thinking back over hard circumstances in her life, it "didn't change the eternal truth that God was sovereign, that His provision was unfailing, and that His love was perfect." This story brought that truth home very well.

BEYOND THIS MOMENT by Tamera Alexander

This is book 2 in the Timber Ridge Reflections series and I enjoyed it even more than I did book 1. It is a story of learning the hard way that the choices we make can and will effect more than just ourselves. A story of secrets, of prejudices, of love and of forgiveness.
Dr. Molly Whitcomb, a professor at college, finds herself being dismissed from her school because of a bad choice and finding herself taking a position as a teacher in the Colorado Territory at Timber Ridge. She is with child and no husband, so she tries to hide her disgrace by putting a ring on her finger and saying her husband has died. Sheriff James McPherson has a feeling things are not quite as they seem when she first gets to town, but he can't figure out what Molly Whitcomb is hiding. He also can't stop his growing feelings for her. The problem is, when he finds out the truth, what will that do to the love that is building between both of them?
Tamera Alexander does a great job of making the characters seem real and helping you understanding the thoughts and standards of that time for a woman like Dr. Molly Whitcomb. She also had the heart of the story in "A NOTE FROM TAMERA" at the end of her book. She said, "Some decisions, once made, have unavoidable consequences that cannot be removed, much like Molly's. However, even in those darkest of times, when we feel the overwhelming weight of our sin, God is always - always - yearning to forgive. He's not simply willing to forgive, mind you, He's eager to extend pardon."
This is a story well worth reading. You can easily read this as a stand alone, but reading book one first will help you understand the characters that much more.

FROM A DISTANCE by Tamera Alexander

Tamera Alexander does such a good job of making you understand and appreciate the time and place in history you are reading about; the beauty of the "west" and the difficulties of living in the 1870s (and especially being a photographer). A well written and enjoyable story.
This is a story of Elizabeth Westbrook who travels to Colorado to capture in pictures the mountains near Timber Ridge. The fact that she is trying to win her place as a photographer for the Washington Daily Chronicle and that she is the daughter a well known politician, isn't something she wants the folks of Timber Ridge to know. Daniel Ranslett is a man who wants to be left alone as he lives in the Colorado mountains and tries to come to terms with his past and the part he played as a Confederate sharpshooter in the war. When Daniel shoots down the animal that Elizabeth is taking a picture of, things don't exactly get off to a good start. And when Elizabeth and her assistant Josiah have to leave town quickly, it's Daniel that must lead them on an adventure to photograph the Mesa Verde. The more these two are around each other the more each of them learns to appreciate the others strengths and weaknesses.
I think the author summed up this story when she writes "God loved her (Elizabeth) enough to intervene in her dream - to shatter it, to shatter her - only so He could put her back together and give her an even bigger, better dram. His dream for her life."
I am looking forward to book 2 and 3 in this series!

CODE TRIAGE by Candace Calvert

Another good drama story in the Mercy Hospital Series. This story is about Dr. Leigh Stathos and her dedicated police officer husband Nick Stathos. Nick has messed up on his marriage and Leigh can't seem to forgive him or trust him, which is why they are separated and divorce is just around the corner. There is ER trauma, confrontation with the "other woman", violence at the hospital that will lead to a killing, and through it all Nick trying to get Leigh to understand he still loves her and wants to make their marriage work. Leigh has problems though in believing that anything lasts forever, She can't except God's love is forever, and their marriage won't last forever either. She can't trust God, or Nick. Until she can understand God's love, she will never be able to except Nick's. I appreciated the struggles both individuals were going through, and in the end they both chose to do things God's way. As it was for all 3 of her books, Candace Calvert knows how to write stories that keep you glued to the book till the end!
I would also like to thank Tyndale House Publishers for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book for review.

WHEN HOPE SPRINGS NEW by Janette Oke

I have appreciated reading this Canadian West series. Book 4 continues with the journey of Elizabeth and Wynn. Wynn and Elizabeth find themselves being moved to a different outpost by the Canadian Mounted Police. Although Elizabeth hates to leave her new friends where they have been living, she is ready and willing to follow Wynn wherever his job sends him. What she wasn't expecting though was a smaller cabin, folks who wanted nothing to do with her, and no one who spoke her language. It took a tragic fire for things to turn around for Elizabeth and the village and then the Lord has other plans for them. Time after time you see the Lord working out the perfect plan for the Delaneys as they wait upon Him. It isn't always their plan, but they see how the Lord worked everything out for their good.
These are easy books to read and quite enjoyable.

WHEN BREAKS THE DAWN by Janette Oke

This book (3rd in the series) picks up literally the same day that book 2 finishes. I am enjoying reading this series, but liked books 1 & 2 better than 3. It continues the story of Elizabeth and Wynn facing hardships, but enduring. Elizabeth is able to start a school, begins to deepen her friendships and get to know the people better, but struggles with their inability to have children. Then Wynn is presented with a new posting at another village. Can God carry them through their deep struggles?
I think the story of this book can be summarized very well by a few sentences taken from the author in this book. Elizabeth's thoughts: "I knew that in orer to have peace with God one must meet His conditions. The first thing I had to do was to confess my sin. In this case it was my bitterness and resentment. I was angry with God. . . "
"What I did know was that God was in charge of my life. He was my sovereign God. He knew what was good for me, and I needed to understand that in His great love for me, He would comfort and sustain me. . . . "

WHEN COMES the SPRING by Janette Oke

This was book 2 in the series and you really need to read book one first, because book 2 starts right up where the first book leaves off. This story finds Elizabeth beginning her life with Wynn, but where they are sent by the North West Mounted Police leaves alot to be desired. Elizabeth must learn how to live simply where no other white women live and to learn to handle the long and cruel winters. Can their love for each other endure through the harsh conditions, the loneliness and the daily hardships of life?
I enjoyed reading of Elizabeth's life, and really came to appreciate her new friend Mrs. McLain. When she comes to understand how all the Bible stories she has been reading are true, it was just a precious and well written moment. I always appreciate it when the author explains the gospel plan in her books. Looking forward to book 3.

WHEN CALLS THE HEART by Janette Oke

Elizabeth Thatcher is a city girl from Toronto. She finds herself agreeing to teach in a new frontier town in Alberta to please her mother and become better acquainted with her half-brother Jonathan and his family. Elizabeth is somewhat reluctant and not sure what to expect, but soon finds herself quickly learning to love her new family and the students she teaches in a small one-room school all by herself. Enter Wynn, a handsome and loyal member of the North West Mounted Police. Elizabeth is determined not to be matched up with anyone and Wynn is determined that his job is too demanding to ever be able to marry. Elizabeth begins to have feelings for Wynn, but can't get Wynn to respond. It will take a drastic move to get him to admit his love.
I haven't read any of Janette Oke's books for quite a few years, but enjoyed her writing style once again in this story. It was an easy read, and made me want to begin the next book in this series to find out what happens next!

FOOLS RUSH IN by Janice Thompson

This was a fun story to read. Bella Rossi has been given the family's wedding planning business to run on her own and her first wedding is a 'Boot-Scootin' Texas wedding. Bella doesn't know anything about country music for this wedding, so she quickly needs to find a deejay and when she meets D.J. Neely you have a little bit of country meeting alot of Italiano.
The fun part of the story is Bella and her Italian Rossi family, who are transplanted and living in Galveston, Texas. You have Bella's family, which you will learn to love (I especially liked Grandma Rosa), the Neely family and even the parrot Guido will at some point in the story bring a smile to your face. If you are looking for a light-hearted romance with lots of laughs, you will enjoy this story.

THE PRICE OF TRUST by Amanda Stephan

This is Amanda Stephans first book, and I think she definitely has the gift to write! I appreciated this book for many reasons, the way she weaved the gospel message into this story, the importance of prayer throughout the story, and the way her characters relied on God, even through tough times, without blaming Him for everything bad that happened to them.
Carly Richards finds herself pulling into a small town in Montana with a car that finally dies on her. She needs a place to live, a job, and for her ex-fiance not to find her this time so he can drag her back to Texas and abuse her again. She finds a job at the local hardware store where the owners take her under their wing and also give her a small room above the store. At first Carly resists the friendliness of those in this small town, but the kind people around her begin to soften her heart and she learns to trust folks again. Joe Baird has also slowly been making progress with Carly and the two of them just seem to hit it off right from the start with their teasing and fun-loving humor. It was just enjoyable to watch their friendship quickly turn into love. But Carly's past will soon catch up to her and it won't be pretty when it happens.
I will be putting this story on my favorites list of books I have read. It was just a delight to see the people in this book live out their faith and put their trust in God. (The only thing I would change is the cover of the book; I didn't think it did justice to the story.)
I would like to thank Amanda Stephan for sending me her book and allowing me to review it for her. I am one of the lucky ones who has had the privilege to read this book, and hope many more will.

SWEETWATER GAP by Denise Hunter

Denise Hunter has written another great story. I enjoyed reading this very much. It is a story of how someone's guilt can affect the way they live their life and how they treat the ones they love. Until someone can understand God's redeeming love, guilt can take away all joy.
Josie Mitchell has traveled everywhere but back home, to their families apple orchard business. Until her brother-in-law calls her one day and tells her her sister Laurel needs her to come home and help run the orchard so that Laurel can take care of herself and her pregnancy. Josie has no choice but to go home to help out, but facing what happened years ago at the orchard, is something she can't do, and keeping her health a secret is something she must do. She also wasn't counting on Grady Mackenzie, the orchard's new manager. They of course don't hit it off at first, but both of them end up sharing the hurts from their past and falling for each other. Grady's feeling for Josie near the end of the book were precious to read. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story and think you will too!

The Least Among You - An inspired by a true story DVD

This is my first review of a DVD and I would like to thank BookSneeze for sending me this movie for review. This was a story about Richard Kelly, who was arrested in the 1965 Watts riots. Although he thought he had his life going where he wanted it to go, a night in the prison, changed everything. He is given a probation if he agrees to attend the Seminary his mother wants him to go to for two semesters and study to be a preacher. This is an all-white seminary, and Richard, being a black man, has to break through racial barriers all around him, plus study for something he has no interest in. The caretaker/gardener of the school helps guide and get Richard through many tough choices.
Although I thought the acting in this movie was very well done, I thought the movie itself lacked something. What was the purpose and meaning behind all that happened to this young man? And the Christian Seminary he went to, well, let's just say I use the term "Christian Seminary" very loosely. I feel like something was missing in this movie.

FEAR NO EVIL by Robin Caroll

This was another good suspenseful story in this series. Lincoln Vailes (a former Smoky Mountain park ranger) finds himself a new police officer deep in Louisiana, having moved there to be close to his ailing father and his mother. Eternal Springs is a small town where not much happens, but the beginning of the story starts out with a hurricane and it just keeps moving at a fast pace from then on.
Jade Laurent is a new social worker who is out to make a difference in peoples lives because her childhood saw abuse firsthand from her Dad. What brings Jade and Lincoln together at first is her passionate and forceful way she had of keeping a drunk husband from getting into the women's shelter to get his wife and kid back. From that moment on Jade's life seems to get complicated, because it looks like someone is out to due her harm. But who? And why are gang members from Philly showing up in their town and getting killed? Somehow it must relate to Jade's troubles. It is a mystery Lincoln needs to figure out before it is too late.
This was a fast paced book which keeps you reading to see what happens next. Robin Caroll is a very good story teller; she deals with hard subjects, but does it in a very good way. There are two characters in this book who both came from similar hardships; one let it make them a better person and the other one didn't make as wise of choices. There was alot of good lessons to learn about our God in this book. Good job Robin!

The PREACHER's BRIDE by Jody Hedlund

This is Jody Hedlunds debut story and she did a great job. She takes history and heroes of the faith and pens a moving portrayal of how the Puritan people in the 1650's, in England, faced the hardships of their times. It had love, hardship, persecution and romance all rolled into one.
Elizabeth Whitbread feels it is her calling to help out John Costin who has just lost his wife shortly after delivering their 4th child into the world. Although John doesn't want her help, she refuses to back down and takes over the running of the household for him. John is a tinker by trade, but a preacher by God's calling. His preaching though during this time in history makes him a target of political and religious leaders. Elizabeth gets caught up in this intrigue and finds herself in alot of danger by helping out John. She is willing to stand by John and his family, but at what cost? And can John ever truly love her as she finds herself loving him? She faces alot of hardship throughout this story and the best part of the book was the quote a good friend of hers gives to her, "hardships are the Lord's greatest blessing to the believer. Without them we would love the Lord only for what He does for us. Our troubles teach us to love Him for who He is." I recommend this book, especially if you are interested in history and the Puritans. And be sure to read the Author's Notes after you read the story, as it will tell you what great hero of the faith she was writing about!
A special thanks to LibraryThings Early Reviewers for sending me this copy for review.

MENU for ROMANCE by Kaye Dacus

I have enjoyed reading both books in this series so far and have appreciated the characters in this series. This story is about Meredith Guidry (and her great Guidry family). Meredith has worked with Chef Major O'Hara for 8 years and has loved Chef Major for most of those years (I know this seems like an awful long time to wait for someone to notice you). But she is tired of waiting on him to return her love. So she sets out to find someone else. On a trip to the hardware store she runs into a guy, Ward, who is Mr. Perfect in so many ways and is willing to help her fix up the home she is remodeling.
The problem is Chef Major has also fallen in love with Meredith, but can't tell her his true feelings because he has a family situation she doesn't know and must never find out about. So when he starts to see Meredith showing an interest in another man, he gets a little distraught. Can he win Meredith back with his "menu for romance".
I loved Meredith's brothers and sisters and the way they interact with each other. And I also loved Major's Mom even though she was a little "crazy". This was for me an enjoyable story and I look forward to reading the next story in this series.

BEYOND SUMMER by Carie Lawson

Okay, Carie Lawson has become a favorite author of mine. This is her second e-book in the Twisted Roots Book Series and I have loved both stories! I am afraid I didn't get much done, because I just wanted to sit and finish this story - I really liked it!
This story is about Zane McCord and Carly Peterson. Zane has a little boy, Daniel and Carly 2 little girls, Brie and Anna. Zane is a little leary of pretty women, because his pretty wife up and left him and his little boy. Carly is leary of men in general since her husband was abusive and just wanted a "showcase" wife. Carly has left her husband and finds nanny work with Zane, through her good friend Lilly, who is Zane's sister-in-law. When Zane first sees her he wants nothing to do with her, because she is beautiful to look at, but soon finds his feelings changing. Carly has a hard time trusting anyone and being herself, except for when it comes to taking care of the 3 children. Zane and Carly start to care for each other, until Zane discovers she is a liar and a thief. Can he learn to trust her, forgive her and help her? Can beauty truly be more than skin deep?
This story was just all around good. I can't wait to read the next one in this series! You won't be disappointed when you read this book!

LOVE FINDS YOU in MIRACLE, KENTUCKY by Andrea Boeshaar

Meg Jorgenson is leaving Chicago for a fresh start in Miracle, Kentucky. She loves children and teaching, but has been burnt by a relationship that went nowhere. She finds herself in Miracle, living with her Grandma and starting fresh at a new school. Eight year old Cammy Bayer, a wheelchair bound girl for most of her life quickly wins Meg's heart. But Cammy's widowed dad, Vance, has a harder time with Meg's heart. Can they both keep open minds about each other and see God work a miracle in Miracle, Kentucky?
This was a quick, and enjoyable read for me!

TEXAS ROADS, by Cathy Bryant

This was a feel-good, delightful book. It is book one of the Miller's Creek series and I look forward to reading the next book in this series. Dani (short for Danielle) has grown up in Dallas, but has never felt "at home" there. She has never had a close relationship with her parents and finds herself visiting her Aunt Beth in Miller's Creek, Texas over Spring Break (she is a teacher), just to get away. What she discovers there is the feeling of "home". The town is dying and the mayor and ranch owner, Steve Miller is trying to do everything possible to keep their town from "dying". Steve has a special bond with "Mama Beth" as everyone calls her, so when Dani comes for a visit and decides she wants to stay, and help out the town, Steve gets a little suspicious.
This story had alot of secrets, and things hidden. I think a sentence in the book sums it up for all the characters in this story; "victory and growth don't come through an easy life, but from struggle." Mama Beth, Dani, Steve, they all had to struggle through things and they all come out on the other side victorious and growing in their walk with their Lord. A story you will feel good about after having read it.

ECHOES by Kristen Heitzmann

As I finished the last pages of the this series I closed the book with a big AHHHH! I thoroughly enjoyed this series and liked the way the author ended it. This book did not deal as much with the two main characters in the first two books, but dealt mainly with Lance's sister Sophie and the past she was trying to overcome. Sophie chose to leave her home and family in the Bronx and move out with Lance and Sophie in Sonoma valley. There she encounters Matt Hammond, a Child Protective Service worker who finds himself getting involved with the "crazy household" of the Michelli's, Rese, her Mom and their friend Star. This family both concerns and fascinates him, but his real attraction is towards Sophie. When Sophie is called upon to confront some serious issues that she thought she had left behind, Matt is there to help her.
This was another book of intrigue, love and letting go. All the characters are back and the author does a good job of tying up the loose ends as she finishes out this series.

UNFORGOTTEN by Kristen Heitzmann

This is the Michelli Family series of books and you will want to read them all, in order, to fully appreciate each one individually. This second story picks up days after the first story ends. In this book you get to know more of Lance's family, the Michelli Family, and you will also get to know his Nonna Antonia and her history much more. Lance and Rece come back to the Little Italy of the Bronx to show Nonna Antonia what they have discovered at her home as a child in Sonoma, California. Lance and Rece are still learning to be open with each other and trust each other and Rece is trying to learn how to be in the midst of all of Lance's family. Rico and Chaz and Star are also living with Lance's family, which are all characters from book one. You will learn to love the family and Lance and Rece even more. You feel like they are real people and everyone has struggles they are trying to deal with and work through. But when Lance learns the truth about his Nonno Marco and how he died he finds himself at a crossroads as to what to do about it. It affects his relationship with Rece also. There is so much going on in this story that you just need to get the series and start reading. You won't be disappointed! I am ready to start book 3!

SECRETS by Kristen Heitzmann

Secrets – that is the name of this book and this story was filled with all kinds of secrets! I won’t give any of the secrets away, but will tell you a little about some of the characters in the story. But before that, I must say, pay attention, to the first couple of chapters, because a lot of history is taking place and you need to understand the “jump” in time as you begin this book.
First there is the main lady in the story, Rece. She has grown up trying to be the best carpentry person she can be to make her carpentry Dad proud of her. But she has decided to start over again and has bought a old villa in the wine country and is restoring it as a bed and breakfast. She is tough lady to get close to, but deep down, she is yearning for acceptance and praise. Then there is the leading man, Lance. What a great character! He knows how to cook and reading about his dishes made me “drool” and wish for what he was making. He is in search of something for his grandmother and he ends up answering the add as a cook for Rece’s bed and breakfast, because what he is looking for is somewhere on her property. He tries so hard to break through Rece’s tough exterior. I loved it when he helps her “stress” at times by just taking her in his arms and giving her a good “ole” romantic kiss. Rece finally starts to share some of her secrets with Lance, but the problem is Lance does not reciprocate by sharing his. So when Rece realizes she has not been told the truth, she wants nothing more to do with Lance. There is also the feisty tell-it-like-it-is neighbor lady Evvy who doesn’t pull any punches, and Star, Rece’s friend from childhood who has a hard time knowing what true love and friendship really are. I enjoyed the story a great deal and I am getting ready to read the next book in the series and see what happens next with Rece and Lance and their relationship

The VIGILANTE'S BRIDE by Yvonne Harris

This was my first time reading anything by this author and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed her writing style and I loved the cover they chose for this story!!
Luke Sullivan finds himself robbing a stagecoach and kidnapping a young lady on Christmas Eve. He didn't plan to, but he wanted to "get even" with the man, Axel, who stole all his parent's owned many years ago. He wasn't expecting Emily McCarthy to be on that stage and headed to Axel's ranch to be his bride (Emily didn't know it at the time, but she needed to be rescued from Axel, a man she had not met yet, but planned to marry). Luke ends up taking her to New Hope, an orphanage there is Montana, the place Luke grew up in after his family died. Emily is such a feisty little woman and Luke is a very determined young man. The way they bicker and fight and try to irritate one one another was at times hilarious! I was laughing out loud at times.

This had a little of everything in it; adventure, danger, killings, indians, cattle rustling, and of course romance (it isn't called "The Vigilante's Bride" for no reason). It had a real western flair to it and I enjoyed reading it very much! You won't be disappointed by reading this story and I look forward to reading more by this author.

I would like to thank Library Thing Early Reviewers for giving me this book for review!

FIRE and ASH by Anne Patrick

This was another good story by Anne Patrick. Sadie McGregor is a fire investigator and the story starts right out with a deadly fire that Sadie is called out to in her home town of Emerald Point, Missouri. Although the fire was made to look like an accident, Sadie begins to uncover clues that it was arson and that someone took the life of a local college student, buy why?? Sadie finds herself working with the new Sheriff in town, Quinn Harrington. Sadie and Quinn quickly become friends and I enjoyed reading their interaction between each other; they both had a good sense of humor. But Sadie is still struggling with guilt from her childhood and the loss of her parents and brother when she was seven in a fire. Quinn tries to help her find her way back to a God who loves her, and also help her discover who the arsonist is and who is trying to "get rid of" anyone who comes to close to the truth.
This was a suspense, mystery and romance package all in one. I enjoyed reading it and learning how detailed a fire investigation gets and how much can be learned from the fire. A good job Anne Patrick!

IN HARM'S WAY by Irene Hannon

This is a book filled with suspense and tender romance. Once again Irene Hannon has written another in the Heroes of Quantico series that is fast paced and heart stopping good. I couldn't put it down until I had finished it completely.
FBI agent Nick Bradley has been around for awhile and heard it all, but when Rachel Sutton walks into his office with her story, and a far-fetched story it is, he can't dismiss her or her story, because in his gut he believes she is telling the truth. Rachel has found a Raggedy Ann doll buried in the snow and when she goes to retrieve it she touches it and gets terrible feelings running through her. She feels danger in the doll, but will the FBI laugh her off, or listen. And why is this happening to her??

The chemistry between Nick and Rachel is real and wonderfully written. The child abduction was scary but also well done. And all the twists and turns of this book keep one glued to each page. I think the best line in the book was the one "a coincidence is a small miracle in which God chooses to remain anonymous". There were alot of "coincidences" in this story, which one can see as God's hand working all things out for His good. You won't be disappointed at all the discoveries you will find as you read this suspense filled, action packed story.