Book Review: Wreath by Judy Christie/4 Stars

About the book:

What do you do when you’re too young to be on your own but have no one to turn to? 

Sixteen-year-old Wreath Willis makes a list: Find a place to live. Buy cheap food. Finish high school. Get a job. Go to college. Now she’s finishing high school by day and squatting in a junkyard by night, flying below the authorities’ radar while she makes a few awkward friends and searches for an illusory “good life.” But when a teacher grows too suspicious, Wreath is afraid she’ll have to move on before she graduates. Could it be this was a good life?

My thoughts: 

Sometimes, there's nothing greater for a reader than finding a new book that just resonates deep within. Such was the case with me and my last read - Wreath. I can't explain what it was exactly that drew me back to this book over and over again, but I knew I would not be satisfied until I completed it. :o)

One thing that impressed me was that this did not feel like a young adult novel at all, perhaps because the main character had no choice but to grow up rather quickly after the sudden death of her mother. My heart ached that Wreath spent her days either going to the local park for a shower, eating nothing but peanut butter and crackers because her money supply was so thin, and that her home was the despised local junkyard. But oh, what perseverance! In spite of incredible obstacles, her determination to finish high school and hold down a job at the same time proved that this fictitious character was better than most kids I know in real life!

Wreath's biggest obstacle, though, was trust, and wow...did she have a lot to overcome there. I couldn't imagine living a life being afraid to trust in those around me--those who have shown they care about my well-being. It took a very long time, almost the span of the entire book, before she realized that she didn't need to run from those friends that she grew to love.

The ending was a little abrupt for my taste, but I'll admit that I'd love to take a return trip to Landry and catch up with Wreath and her friends. As this was my first experience with Judy Christie's work, I have no doubt that I'll pick up another of her novels down the road.

Highly recommended!

4 Stars

Southern?  Yes
Sass?  No

**Many thanks to Barbour Books through NetGalley for providing a copy for review.

**For more information about Judy and her books, please visit http://www.judychristie.com/.

 

Leave It To a YA Novel to Readjust My Eternal Focus - There You'll Find Me by Jenny B. Jones/5 Stars

I am literally at a loss for words right now.  I just finished this book, and it's been a long time since I've been this impressed with every aspect of a book like I was with this one.  Jenny has managed to write a witty, sassy, yet quite painful, novel that had me on an emotional roller coaster that I didn't want to end.

From the beginning, I knew that Finley was a hurting soul.  Her life was in shambles--the death of a brother, a stint in therapy, a semi-public image tainted--and God had never felt more distant.  On top of her personal turmoil, the stress she was under to complete a musical piece for a prestigious audition was intense.  But then she meets a boy.  And not just any boy, either.  This one was Beckett Rush...THE hottest young movie star on the Hollywood scene.  And the funny part?  She couldn't be less interested in him, which threw him for a big-time loop.  Gradually, they become friends, then more than friends, and he slowly starts to break down her walls.  Before too long, each one of them realizes things that they'd rather not face, yet know if they don't, their lives won't go any direction but downhill.

I've said it before...I wish books like this had been available when I was in the young adult stage.  I found this story to be so honest and real.  It was not a book I could wrap in a box with a fancy bow.  There was no fluff.  Instead, it was a brilliantly told, coming-of-age story that I will never, ever forget.  Yes, there was wit, sass and snark, but there was also pain, loss, and deep emotional hurt.  I found myself laughing along with Finley as she verbally sparred with Beckett (considering he had met his match there), and on the flip side, reaching for the Kleenex when Finley succumbed to her lowest point and realized that God had been right by her side all along.  She had just filled her life with so much noise that she couldn't hear God's voice.  That was my "aha" moment right there because I have done that very thing more times than I can count.  Like Finley, I think that if I can just do this one task, or wrap up this one commitment, or help this one person, I'll have accomplished something really great.  It becomes all-consuming, and I lose sight of the things that are eternally important.

But...

Leave it to a novel to bring my focus back where it needs to be.  Thanks for that, Jenny.  :o)  Thanks for using all those editors and going through all those rough drafts (as you mentioned in your acknowledgments) to get this story just right.

5 Stars

Southern?  No.  Although Finley is from SC, none of the book is physically set in the South.
Sass?  Absolutely!  How many Jenny B. Jones books do you know of that don't have sass?  :o)

Summary of There You'll Find Me:

Finley Sinclair is not your typical eighteen-year-old. She's witty, tough, and driven. With an upcoming interview at the Manhattan music conservatory, Finley needs to compose her audition piece. But her creativity disappeared with the death of her older brother, Will.

She decides to study abroad in Ireland so she can follow Will's travel journal. It's the place he felt closest to God, and she's hopeful being there will help her make peace over losing him. So she agrees to an exchange program and boards the plane.

Beckett Rush, teen heartthrob and Hollywood bad boy, is flying to Ireland to finish filming his latest vampire movie. On the flight, he meets Finley. She's the one girl who seems immune to his charm. Undeterred, Beckett convinces her to be his assistant in exchange for his help as a tour guide.

Once in Ireland, Finley starts to break down. The loss of her brother and the pressure of school, her audition, and whatever it is that is happening between her and Beckett, leads her to a new and dangerous vice. When is God going to show up for her in this emerald paradise?

Then she experiences something that radically changes her perspective on life. Could it be God convincing her that everything she's been looking for has been with her all along?

**Thanks to Thomas Nelson through NetGalley for providing a copy for review.

This Book is a Masterpiece - Lost and Found by Ginny Yttrup/5 Stars

Simply put...this book is a masterpiece.  There are so many layers to the story and characters that as you go deeper and deeper, it is impossible to not be affected in some way.  For someone who may be going through their own spiritual journey, this book is chock-full of wisdom and insight into the plans that God has for his children. 

What was most enlightening for me was the fact that on this side of heaven, I will never truly "understand" everything about God and his plans.  That became clear as I looked at Proverbs 3:5-6 in a whole new way.  So often I try so hard to know everything, including the things of God.  I want to figure it all out, wrap it up in a package, and say, "Now, I've figured it out."  But truly, who am I kidding?  No one but myself.  That's why those verses now have knew meaning to me.  I'll never think of them the same way again. 

This book is not for everyone.  Granted, lots of folks should read it, but I guess what I mean to say is that if you're not spiritually prepared for the truths contained within, you may just cast it aside.  In all honesty, I almost did that very thing.  I had to get almost halfway through it before I really allowed myself to soak in its wisdom.  So...bravo, Ms. Yttrup.  You've given me a memorable experience with a novel that I won't soon forget.

5 Stars

Southern?  No
Sass?  No

Summary of Lost and Found:

It appears Jenna Bouvier is losing everything: beauty, family, and wealth. When her controlling and emotionally abusive mother-in-law accuses Jenna of an affair with her spiritual director and threatens to expose them, Jenna also risks losing her reputation as a woman of faith. Will she capitulate to her mother-in-law’s wishes again or fight for what she holds dear? As Jenna loses her life, will she find it?

Andee Bell has found exactly what she wanted: fame, fortune, and respect. There’s also a special man in her life—Jenna’s brother. Despite her success, a secret quells Andee’s contentment. As memories torment, will she find peace in a relationship with God, or will she sabotage herself while also taking down the only person she cares about? As Andee finds her life, will she lose it?

Moving between San Francisco and the Napa Valley, Jenna and Andee form an unlikely relationship that leads them to a crossroad. They can follow familiar inclinations, or risk it all and walk in faith.

**Many thanks to B&H Publishing for providing a copy for review through NetGalley.

**If you'd like an opportunity to win a copy of this spectacular book, visit this link to read a fun interview I did with Ginny, and then, fill out the form for a chance to win.  Hurry...the contest ends on Tuesday, March 6!

Do You Like Your Plots Served with a Twist? Comin' Right Up! - Accused by Janice Cantore

Going into the new year, it's my intention to read more books outside of my historical fiction comfort zone.  With that said...what a great way to end 2011 in this excellent new suspense novel by Janice Cantore--Accused.

Before reading Accused, I had never even heard of Janice, and had no idea that she's been writing books for a few years now.  I thought I would be getting an early peek at a debut author (considering this book doesn't release for another month).  Well...no debut here, but nonetheless, Janice is definitely an author I'll be reading more from in the future!  She does what all authors should do, in my opinion...write what they know.  Being a veteran police officer-turned-author, her knowledge and expertise in law enforcement shines through much of this story.

Accused is also a very appealing read for those who want a little romance with their suspense, and the mix here is just right--not too much so that it's corny, but not too little to make you think no one has a heart.  :o)  It is all-the-more believable since Carly and Nick are divorced, and Carly still carries a great amount of bitterness toward Nick because of their split.

But the icing on the cake here is the plot itself!  It is so twisted that you won't come up for air until the very last page!  The bad guys in this story are all over the place, too, and just when I think I've got one pegged, another one rears his ugly head.  To me, that's what makes a good suspense novel.  Give me a little something to figuratively chew on, while keeping me glued to the pages at the same time, and I'm a fan for life.

If there's anything to dislike here, it would be the spiritual elements.  Now, since I read nothing but Christian fiction, you'd think I wouldn't have a problem with this, but this is the first book that I've read in awhile that is as preachy as this one is.  Carly has some major issues with anything concerning God, and her disinterest initially is a little repetitive.  It's not until after the funeral that the preachiness starts to become overwhelming.  I understand that everyone in her circle wants to be a witness to her, but it's all just laid on a little too thick here.  I think if maybe just one character, perhaps two, had not shared their personal testimony, it would've helped the overall flow of the story a great deal.

So, with a mixed bag of thoughts, Accused is still a great read, and gets a high recommendation from me if just for the suspense alone.  Out of 5 stars, it easily gets 5, but the preachiness causes me to bring the overall rating to a 4.  I am so glad there is a sneak peek into book 2, Abducted, included in the back because I'm anxious to see how Carly performs in her usual element of patrolling the streets, a job she was not allowed to do in Accused.  Oh, and not to mention what happens between her and a certain someone...gotta get the juicy details on that.  :o)

4 Stars

Southern?  No
Sass?  No

Summary of Accused:

Detective Carly Edwards hates working in juvenile—where the brass put her after an officer-involved shooting—and longs to be back on patrol. So when a troubled youth, Londy Atkins, is arrested for the murder of the mayor and Carly is summoned to the crime scene, she's eager for some action. Carly presses Londy for a confession but he swears his innocence, and despite her better judgment, Carly is inclined to believe him. Yet homicide is convinced of his guilt and is determined to convict him.

Carly's ex-husband and fellow police officer, Nick, appears to be on her side. He's determined to show Carly that he's a changed man and win her back, but she isn't convinced he won't betray her again.

As the investigation progresses, Carly suspects a cover-up and strikes out on her own, uncertain whom she can trust. But when danger mounts, she begins to wonder if she made the right choice.

**Many thanks to Tyndale House through NetGalley for providing a copy for review. 

Change is Good, Especially When It Comes to the Amish - Beside Still Waters by Tricia Goyer

I love being able to have a new experience every time I read a book, and when it comes to reading Amish fiction...well, that's a tad bit of a rarity.  Most of the time, their culture is seen as difficult, closed off, and rigorous.  But in Tricia Goyer's first Amish novel, those cultural boundaries are pushed to the edge, and seriously...it makes for an incredibly entertaining, yet beautiful, story that I won't soon forget.

What surprised me most about this story was the increased interaction between the Amish and the Englisch.  Normally, the Amish are not known for this, but frankly, when you live in the wide open spaces of Montana, you don't have much choice about who your neighbors are.  For Marianna and her father, this unusual arrangement with outsiders took some getting used to at first, but slowly, those self-imposed walls began to drop, and new relationships started to form.  Not only were these new relationships with common people, but also, with God Himself.

Prior to reading Beside Still Waters, I had read only a handful of Tricia's novels, but truly, she has a gift with the Amish genre.  Not that her other books aren't great in their own rights, but she has a different voice here that kept pulling on my heartstrings, and it just would...not...let...go.  If you're like me and love a great Amish read, yet you long for something different, Beside Still Waters is one of the best.  Period.

5 Stars

Southern?  No
Sass?  No

Summary of Beside Still Waters:

Raised among the Amish of Indiana, 18-year-old Marianna Sommer plans to get baptized into the church, marry Aaron Zook, and set up life in the only community she has ever known. But when her older brother chooses the world’s path following his rumschpringe, and a younger sibling begins showing interest in Englisch ways, Marianna’s parents move the family to Montana.

Although she is also in her rumschpringe years and not obligated to move, Marianna makes the journey to dutifully help her mother who is expecting another child. Surprisingly, from strangers on the cross-country train ride to the less rigid stance of the new Montana community, many English influences awaken within Marianna—and even her father—the desire to pursue a deeper kind of joy and love for God.

After an accident, Marianna tells her friend, Ben, a defining story about the Sommer family, and his response further illumines the active relationship God seeks with His followers. In due time, she learns the move from Indiana was not about losing anything, but finding out who God really is. Despite all the shake-ups, Marianna feels a sweet peace, like still waters, in her soul.

**Many thanks to B&H Fiction through NetGalley for providing a copy for review.

Allow Me to Gush--The Wonder of Your Love by Beth Wiseman is Impossible to Put Down!

The Land of Canaan series has got to be one of my favorite Amish series...ever.  If you don't believe me, I dare you to compare them to some of the other Amish books on the shelves and see what you think.  If they don't have you glued to the pages like they do me...well then, we might have to have a little chat to change your mind (just kidding, I promise).  :o)

I don't know how she does it, but Beth Wiseman has got this incredible way of getting me emotionally invested with all of her stories. I find myself cheering for their successes, and empathizing with their heartbreaks like they were real people.  And if those things weren't enough, then she goes and writes these stirring romantic scenes between her male and female lead characters that literally set my heart to pounding...as in out-of-my-chest pounding!  There are only a handful of authors that are truly gifted when it comes to writing romance into any story, and by golly, Beth is at the top of the list!

But now that this visit back to Canaan has come to an end, it's like anguish...horrible, gut-wrenching anguish.  I know I make it sound like my dog just died, but I usually feel this way after I read one of Beth's books.  How in the world can I make it until I know what happens next in this close-knit community?!  I want to know what will happen with Danielle--is something on the horizon for her and Levi?  Will Eli's children be happy with the changes they are about to make?  Will Martha continue to be her ornery old self now that her relationship status has changed?  See what I mean...there are just too many questions!!!

So, while I patiently wait, I guess I'll have to be satisfied that this particular story ended just how I wanted it to--not a cliff-hanger in sight.  :o)  Still, a return trip to Canaan is on my radar, and I hope Beth won't make us wait too terribly long before we can go back.

5 Stars

Southern?  No
Sass?  Yes, and her name is Martha.  She had me LOLing the whole way through!

Click here to see my review of book 1 in the Land of Canaan series, Seek Me With All Your Heart.

Summary of The Wonder of Your Love:

Katie Ann lost the love of her life. Then God offers her a new beginning in Colorado.

Katie Ann Stolzfus lives in the small Amish community of Canaan, Colorado. At forty she is widowed and raising her first child. But baby Jonas will never know his father, and Katie Ann wonders if her Heavenly Father hasn't forgotten about her as well. Is it really God's plan for her to be a single parent?

Eli Detweiler has come to Canaan for a wedding and a long vacation. Having raised six children following the death of his young wife, Eli is finally an empty-nester. He's enjoying the slower pace of having no one to care for but himself.

When Katie Ann and Eli meet, there is an instant connection. Yet as strong as the attraction is, they both acknowledge that a romance would never work. He is done parenting, while she has just begun.

But as their friendship slowly blossoms into feelings that are as frightening as they are intoxicating, Katie Ann and Eli question if the plans they made for themselves are in line with God's plans.

**Many thanks to Thomas Nelson through NetGalley for providing a copy for review.

Book Review: A Time for Peace by Barbara Cameron/3 Stars

About the book:

After Years of Hardship, Jenny’s Life Appears Perfect. So Why Does Something Seem to Be Missing?

Jenny Bontrager finally feels loved and cherished by her husband, Matthew, and his children. Life seems golden with both her family and career as a writer.

Then one day her grandmother, Phoebe, falls ill, and Jenny cares for her. As she reaches into Phoebe’s closet for a robe, Jenny finds a letter from her father dated the summer when she was nearly eighteen.

As she struggles to understand her father’s words, Jenny’s love for him, and her recently renewed faith and trust in God are thrown into question again. And without warning, her perfect life is thrown into question . . .

My thoughts:

As someone who reads a lot of Amish fiction, I was eager to read a book by a fairly new Amish author, Barbara Cameron.  Several reviewers have had wonderful things to say about her books, and I was curious to see if I would enjoy them for myself.

In my opinion, fans of Wanda Brunstetter and Shelley Shepard Gray would enjoy Barbara's stories and writing style because neither was really a fit for me with this book.  Without going into a lot of detail lest I spoil the experience for someone else, there were several areas that seemed to need some improvement.  For example, the first 60-70 pages were used to set up the story, and it could've been done in about 30-40 without the repetition that was present.  Also, the faith aspect of the book was watered down and almost non-existant. I expected there to be at least one mention of them going to church, or a visit with the bishop about spiritual matters, but neither was a part of this book.  Knowing that the Amish have a faith and belief system that is very important to them, it was a big surprise to see that it wasn't included.

Now, I've not read either of the previous books in this series, but that wasn't a problem.  This book was great as a stand-alone, and I had no trouble following along with some of the other characters from those previous novels.  Another bonus from this book was all the content in the back--a glossary (which is always helpful for those words you think you know, but don't), discussion questions (don't read them until the end because there are spoilers), and lots of yummy recipes (potato soup, here I come).

Even though it wasn't my favorite book, I do plan to read another of Barbara's novels in the future because I've always been a firm believer in giving an author a second chance.  There's no telling sometimes when they'll surprise us!

3 Stars

Southern?  No
Sass?  Phoebe had just a touch of it...ornery old coot.  :o)

**Many thanks to Maegan Roper and Netgalley for providing a copy for review.

Book Review: A Bride's Portrait of Dodge City, Kansas by Erica Vetsch/4 Stars

About the book:

Quench your craving for good fiction with this wonderfully written Old West adventure.

Hoping to leave the shadows of her shady yesteryears behind, Adeline Reed is focusing on her photography career. But when her ex-boyfriend’s compatriot in crime shows up in Dodge City her entire past is threatened by exposure. Can Addie keep her secrets while helping to catch a killer?

Deputy Miles Carr’s investigation into a shopkeeper’s murder leads him to Addie’s door. Will his attraction to this female photographer keep him from catching the true culprit? Or will Addie lead him off course in more ways than one?

My thoughts:

What do you get when you have a talented female photographer, a newly-minted town deputy, and a scoundrel of the worst sort who has come back to haunt you?  You get this book--A Bride's Portrait of Dodge City, Kansas--and it's a good'un, too.

I was so impressed with the detail of Addie's trade as a photographer.  From the darkroom, to her studio, and to the portraits taken at the Arden Palace, it felt like I was looking through the camera lens and capturing all the subtle nuances that only a portrait can show.  I could smell the chemicals that were used to develop the pictures, and I caught myself mentally counting the seconds along with Addie to get the right exposure.  Now, in real life, I don't have a clue about photography, but just for a few moments in this book, I felt like I knew a thing or two...and that brought a smile to my face.

Miles was an enjoyable character, too.  At first, it seemed like he was going to be green as the day is long at being a deputy, but he quickly settled into his role.  His reluctance to share his past was believable, especially how it related to Addie.

Then, there was the drama associated with Vin Rutter.  He came to Dodge City for a particular reason, and caused nothing but trouble for Addie, Miles, and Fran while he was there.  I felt sure the I had him pegged correctly the entire time, but leave it to this talented author to have a surprise or two up her sleeve.  :o)

Nothing gives me more pleasure than discovering an author that I've not been privileged to read before.  Erica Vetsch has created a delightful Midwestern tale that is sure to have me returning to read her future novels.  Fans of Mary Connealy, Kelly Eileen Hake, and Susan Page Davis are destined to enjoy this charming story!

4 Stars

Southern?  No
Sass?  Yes

**Many thanks to Barbour through NetGalley for providing a copy for review.

Book Review: The Wounded Heart by Adina Senft/2 Stars

About the book:

When a business offer turns into something more personal, Amelia is torn between what logic tells her is right, and the desire of her heart. 


A widow with two small children, Amelia Beiler is struggling to make ends meet. She is running her late husband's business, but it's not what she was raised to do, which is run a home. When she gets an offer for the business from Eli Fischer, she's only too relieved to consider it-especially when it looks like Eli's interest might include more than just the shop. But when she begins to experience strange physical symptoms and is diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, it's difficult not to question God's will. If she pursues the treatment she believes in, she risks going under the bann. But how can she allow Eli to court her when she can't promise him a future?

Includes instructions to make the quilt block featured in the novel.

My thoughts:

I feel like I've hit a rut with reading.  You know what I mean...nothing seems to grab your attention, you struggle to finish a book, you find other things to do that are more exciting, and on and on.  That's where I'm at right now...nothing is blowing me away, and I hate that.  What's worse is that the Amish genre is one that has always been steadfast for me, always intriguing.  And because it's been a good while since I've read an Amish novel, I was hoping that this book would snap me out of my funk.

Well, it didn't.  It never felt like the author knew where she wanted her story to go.  First off, you've got these three women who are so painfully difficult to tell apart in the beginning, and for the most part, they're pretty opinionated to be Amish.  It seemed for awhile that I had stepped into a modern women's fiction novel rather than an Amish one.

Secondly, you've got the thread of this mysterious illness that has plagued Amelia for weeks, and almost has her on a wild goose chase to Mexico for treatment.  Now, I'm not bashing that people do stuff like that when they've exhausted all other options, but please...we're talking about the Amish here.  None of that part of the storyline was believable to me at all.

Thirdly, there's the drama of Amelia selling her business, which ruffles the feathers of quite a few of the local Amish men.  I thought it was embarrassing that the men with whom she had been friends with for years berated her for even thinking of selling to an Englishman.  What nerve!  She had no choice at the time but to consider all of her circumstances, including her children, and it just made me so mad that all these men seemed to gang up on her.

Lastly, there's this nagging tooth problem that Amelia has (which is very instrumental to the overall story, so I won't spill the beans too much).  I'm not a dentist or a tooth expert, but I have a little bit of knowledge about teeth since I worked in a dental office a few years ago.  I don't know how much detailed research the author did on this particular part of her story, but there were some issues with procedures and pricing that were not accurate at all. 

I really doubt I will read the rest of the series.  There were too many plot twists and too many stories going on at once to make much of it remotely believable.  It may be a great read for other Amish fiction fans, but it was not the book for me.

2 Stars

**Many thanks to Faithwords and NetGalley for providing a copy for review.

Southern?  No
Sass?  Surprisingly, a little bit.

Book Review: Havah: The Story of Eve by Tosca Lee/5 Stars

About the book:

A single decison has the power to unravel mankind.

Created, not born.

The world's first woman, without flaw, until one fateful choice. Now all humanity must pay for the mistake.

From paradise to exile, from immortality to the death of Adam, experience the dawn of mankind through the eyes of Eve -- the woman first known as Havah.

My thoughts:

Tosca Lee has got to be one of the most talented authors in Christian fiction today. It has been such a long time since I read a novel with as much depth as this one had. Normally, I fly through books as so many of them have similar storylines and plot devices, but I found myself slowly and methodically reading this book, absorbing each and every page.

This book changed my perceptions of those early days from Genesis that I am familiar with. Tosca's ability to convey the joy of Adam and Eve's time in the garden was contrasted extremely well to their sudden flight after eating the fruit, along with their subsequent wonder of how they would survive. And while it's not the norm for Christian fiction, I appreciated Tosca going the extra mile in describing the love shared between Adam and Eve as husband and wife. It seems that lately this has been frowned upon by some Christian readers, but I found it to be completely natural and added that extra bit of realness to the story.

Not only is Havah a great addition to Christian fiction, it is a wonderful addition to the genre of Biblical fiction that is growing by leaps and bounds. I have found that these novels help me in my understanding of Biblical truths, and I always find myself going to the original source and comparing both works side by side. It is my belief that Tosca has found her niche with the Biblical fiction genre, and while I'm sure her newest novel with Ted Dekker is great, I'm eager for her next solo novel in the works called Iscariot.

5 Stars

**Many thanks to B&H Publishing through NetGalley for providing a copy for review.

Southern?  No
Sass?  No

Book Review: Shadow in Serenity by Terri Blackstock/4 Stars

About the book:

Carny Sullivan grew up in the zany world of a traveling carnival. Quaint and peaceful Serenity, Texas, has given her a home, a life, and a child. Logan Brisco is the smoothest, slickest, handsomest man Serenity, Texas has ever seen. But Carny Sullivan knows a con artist when she sees one---and she's seen plenty, starting with her father.

As far as Carny Sullivan can tell, she's the only one in town who has his number. Because from his Italian shoes to his movie-actor smile, Logan has the rest of the town snowed. Carny is determined to reveal Brisco's selfish intentions before his promise to the townspeople for a cut in a giant amusement park sucks Serenity dry. Yet, as much as she hates his winning ways, there is a man behind that suave smile, a man who may win her heart against her will.

Shadow in Serenity is a modern-day Music Man, penned by a Christy Award-winning, New York Times bestselling author.

My thoughts:

I have been a diehard fan of Terri Blackstock since I first started reading Christian fiction over ten years ago.  I have always been able to rely on Terri to provide suspenseful stories that keep me awake until the wee hours of the morning.  However, this was not one of her stronger novels.

While the carnival/amusement park idea was unique, I felt that I had to suspend belief for a large portion of the story.  Like Carny, I wondered how in the world all of Logan's plans would come to fruition if he wasn't in fact a con artist.  Without giving too much away, the end of the story was where this was most evident.  Considering the amount of time that had passed between Logan's first visit to Serenity and the final chapter of the story, everything progressed much faster than it would in the real world.

On the flip side, I felt that the characters in this story were extremely believable, Logan in particular.  His reflections on his past as a product of foster homes combined with the years spent with his con artist mentor made him the most complex character of the story.  Having personally met a con artist in my life (but thankfully not his victim), I could identify with some of the techniques Logan used to persuade the town into parting with their hard-earned money. 

I appreciated that Terri went back to her last novel written for the general market and rewrote it to appeal to a Christian audience.  Never once did it seem that the story was rewritten as all the Christian elements blended seamlessly throughout the story.  But if I compare it to some of her recent novels, it was not up to the same caliber that I've come to expect from her.  It was only slightly suspenseful and romantic, yet still engaging enough that I wanted to read it to the very end.  My rating is 4 Stars.

Southern?  Yes, only by mentioning the state of Louisiana.  There were no actual Southern references.
Sass?  No

**Many thanks to Zondervan and NetGalley for providing a copy for review.

Book Review: An Amish Love by Kelly Long, Kathleen Fuller, and Beth Wiseman/4 Stars

About the book:

Romance is in the air, old-fashioned courtship is alive and well, and love is an eternal promise.

A Marriage of the Heart by Kelly Long

Abigail Kauffman is looking for a way out; Joseph Lambert is seeking a way in. Since her mother's death, Abby has lived alone with her father and longs to escape the emptiness of the farmhouse that has never felt like home. Joseph Lambert is a newcomer in their close-knit community. Only after they find themselves suddenly married to each other do they begin to understand the tender truths of life-long love.

What the Heart Sees by Kathleen Fuller

When Ellie Chupp loses her sight in an accident--and then her boyfriend shortly after that--she believes love will never be in her future. But Christopher Miller has returned home, five years after fleeing from the tragedy that broke his heart. When Ellie and Chris meet again, sparks fly. Could true love be a matter of seeing with new eyes?

Healing Hearts by Beth Wiseman

He left to find himself. She found her way without him. Now Levina and Naaman Lapp are together again, feeling miles apart. Although coming home was the right thing to do, Naaman must regain the trust and respect of his wife who, in his absence, has learned to trust God like never before. Could it be that their prior years together have simply been a preface to a greater love than they have ever known?

My thoughts:

Novellas aren't normally my thing.  I've found that I enjoy a longer story much more than a short one.  However, I bit the bullet in this case, and read an anthology of novellas.  And if I really want to be truthful, it was only because Beth Wiseman's name was on the cover. :o)

And guess what?  I was pleasantly surprised!  Beth's story was great, of course, like all of her other books have been.  There were a few places where the story seemed to be rather drawn out, but on the whole, I enjoyed it.  I loved that it was a little spicy on the romance which, compared with other Amish novels, was a refreshing change.  I came across a review while I was reading this book that said the romance was inappropriate.  Puh-lease.  I found nothing wrong with a married couple (who had drifted apart from one other) that was desparately trying to reconnect romantically with one another.  If that's too much for some folks, then...wow.  I found it to be very realistic because unless you have the *perfect* marriage, there's nothing wrong with a wife being courted all over again by her husband.

Moving on...

Kathleen's story was just okay. I didn't dislike it, but it just wasn't as great as the other two stories, in my opinion. However, it was different in it's own right, dealing with a young blind woman living among the Amish (which was a first for me).

The most pleasant surprise, though, was Kelly Long's novella--A Marriage of the Heart.  Until now, I've not had the pleasure of reading any of Kelly's books, but let me just say...WOW!  What a great introduction to a new author!  Her story was so much fun, yet serious, and I loved the blossoming romance that happened after an impromtu marriage.  I can't wait now to find one of Kelly's full-length novels because I'm pretty confident that I'll find another good story nestled between it's pages.  :o)

This set of stories would be perfect for those wanting to try out the Amish genre, or any of these authors, in general.  Each novella is a little more than 100 pages, and gives a reader a glimpse into the Amish lifestyle and culture.  It would also be a perfect read around Valentine's Day because it is a little heavier on the romance than most Amish stories are.  My rating is 4 Stars.

Southern?  No
Sass?  No

**Many thanks to Thomas Nelson through NetGalley for providing a copy for review.

Book Review: Plain Proposal by Beth Wiseman

About the book:

Miriam secretly vows to follow Saul no matter what the future holds.  But she never thought that future might take them away from their Amish community.

Miriam Raber could have her pick of any of the eligible bachelors in Lancaster County. But she only has eyes for one . . . Saul Fisher. He captured her heart years ago, and she’s never looked back. Even when rumors circulate that Saul may leave their Amish community to pursue a once-in-a-lifetime apprenticeship, Miriam makes a bold assertion: she will stand by him, whether he stays or he goes, though she knows this decision could break her family’s heart.

Saul Fisher has experienced an inordinate amount of loss in his short life. Saul is raising his two brothers and caring for a grieving father who privately seeks solace in the comfort of his homemade wine. Saul has kept his father’s drinking from the community, but if he leaves Lancaster, the burden of secrecy will be left to his young brothers. How does he balance this with the dream that burns bright within him?

As Miriam and Saul consider leaving their lives behind, God starts revealing things to Miriam that make her think twice about what it means to be a Daughter of the Promise, and what it means to make a home.

Experience this love story with a surprising resolution by one of the most popular voices in Amish fiction.

My thoughts:

To say that I'm a huge fan of Beth Wiseman would be the understatement of the year. I just cannot get enough of her books! Her books all have simple Amish storylines, but there's something about them that draws me in every single time.

Now, I'm a huge fan of Amish fiction, in general, and have been since Beverly Lewis' first book. I have learned so much about their lifestyle, their beliefs, and their quiet strengths. But the way those characteristics are displayed in a Beth Wiseman book put her in a league of her own. In her last book in this series, I learned that the Amish don't believe in "ministering" to other people, but instead, choose to live their lives as a Christian example to others. That same theme carried over into this book, and blended into the story beautifully. While it's not something that I believe in wholeheartedly, I do understand it from their point of view.

Out of this series, this was the first book that explored one of their own leaving, and possibly choosing an English lifestyle. I was happy to see that change of pace for this series, as there have been a handful of people that have come from the outside world into this strict Amish world. I truthfully didn't know what Saul and Miriam would choose, and I admit that I got frustrated a few times with Miriam's mother and her meddling.

The only thing that didn't seem to fit well with this book was at the very beginning. Unless I completely missed it, Shelby's age was not mentioned until I had gotten well into the story. Initially, her character seemed rather juvenile, and her journal writings didn't seem to match her age of 19. However, as the book progressed, more of her past was revealed, and I knew she couldn't have been the 14- or 15-year-old girl that I first pictured her being.

If you've not read any of the books in the Daughters of the Promise Series, I would highly recommend that you read all 5 of them in order. It's not an absolute must, but it will definitely make for a better reading experience. Beth is also in the middle of a spin-off to this series which is set in Colorado called The Land of Canaan Series. It's first book, Seek Me With All Your Heart, falls right into place between books 4 and 5 of this series, and should be read before reading Plain Proposal, in my opinion.

Confusing enough for ya? It's well worth it, I promise. :o)

Southern?  No
Sass?  No

4.5 Stars

**Many thanks to Thomas Nelson through NetGalley for providing a copy for review.

Book Review: Montana Rose by Mary Connealy/4 Stars

About the book:

Fire up your love of romance with Montana Rose, where Cassie Griffin, a seemingly spoiled pregnant woman, is widowed one day and wedded the next. Marrying handyman Red Dawson seems the only alternative to Cassie’s being hitched to a brutal rancher. But can this “china doll” bear exchanging smooth silk for coarse calico?

Red was reluctant to be yoked to an unbeliever, but sometimes a man has no choice. Will Red change Cassie’s heart by changing her name?

Wade Sawyer is obsessed with saving Cassie from a marriage of convenience. How far will he go make her his own?

My thoughts:

Mary Connealy's books always have a way of pulling me in and getting under my skin. Montana Rose was no exception at all! She took a seemingly ordinary setting out West with every-day people, and turned it into a story that was full of emotion. I connected with these characters in a way that hasn't happened to me in a very long time, so much so that I felt like I was a small part of their community.

I loved the compliment at the very beginning of the book that stated this was a tribute to Janette Oke's famous book, Love Comes Softly. It's been years since I read that book, but the story is one that I'll never forget. I thought Mary's take on this very similar story was done so very well that I never once compared the two. Mary's story stood apart and had it's own personality, and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it.

I cannot wait to read the rest of this series, and I have no doubt that I will fly through it! Book 2, The Husband Tree, looks to be a continuation of Belle's story that was featured in Montana Rose. Hopefully, she'll be able to do something with that dead-beat husband of hers, other than hit him upside the head with her skillet. :o)

4 Stars

Southern?  No
Sass?  Yes; it took awhile, but Cassie found some.  :o)

**Many thanks to Barbour Books through NetGalley for providing a copy for review.

Book Review: The Blacksmith's Bravery by Susan Page Davis

About the book:

Ride shotgun alongside Vashti Edwards, saloon girl turned stagecoach driver, as she tries to redefine her life into a brave Christian citizen. Watch as Griffin Bane, local blacksmith and stagecoach manager, wrestles with his attraction to her. He questions his decision to allow her this work as the dangers on the trail increase. When a gang of outlaws target the stagecoach line, the Ladies Shooting Club goes into action again to protect their friends. Will they succeed in saving the stagecoach line and Vashti and Griffin, so they can build a future together?

My thoughts:

I have been a fan of this series since day one! I have especially wished to JOIN the Ladies Shooting Club, but then, I'd have to live to Fergus, Idaho in the late 1800's (on second thought, maybe I'd like to keep my indoor plumbing). Oh, well...I've been able to live vicariously through Trudy, Libby, and now Vashti through all three of these books, and each one has been a real treat.

Vashti was feisty with a capital F. No way, no how was she going to let Griffin Bane talk her out of one day being a stagecoach driver. Now I have to admit that a job like that is definitely not for the faint of heart, but Vashti filled the role beautifully. All she wanted was to be known for something other than a gentleman entertainer, which was part of her past. She knew that she'd never be looked upon as one of the finer ladies of Fergus, but she still craved a fresh start. That part of the story really stood out to me because, just like most people, I've done things in my life that I'm not proud of and wished for my slate to be wiped clean. That's not always possible in the human world, but for Vashti, she managed to earn the respect of several members of the town, and by the book's end, a few were even willing to risk their lives!

And Griffin....my, my, that fella just about made me swoon! He was a big hunk of a guy that deep down, had such a soft heart. I loved the addition of his nephew, Justin, to the story because in some ways, that forced Griffin to care for someone other than himself. Poor guy really was a loner until Justin and Vashti stepped into the picture!

I hate that this was the last I'll hear from the little town of Fergus, Idaho! I loved these characters and the originality of each story. Oh, and did I mention that I loved the Ladies Shooting Club? :o) Those gals were as reliable as the U.S. Mail, and always ready to do their part to protect their town, no matter what. The Blacksmith's Bravery gets a rating of 4 stars, and the hope that someday, there will be a 4th book to this great series. :o)

**Many thanks to Barbour Books through NetGalley for providing a copy for review.

**Click here to see my review of The Sheriff's Surrender, and here for The Gunsmith's Gallantry.

Wednesday Plugs...

Mercy, I cannot believe how crazy things have been for me lately!  So, I'm spending the day playing catch up for you guys, as well as letting you know about some cool stuff...  :o)

Most of you know that my DH had emergency surgery last month to remove his appendix.  Thank the Lord that he came through that without a single problem, and in fact, only had to spend one night in the hospital.  He's limited to what's he able to do physically (which isn't really a bad thing b/c he could stand a break), at least for the next few months....which means that I've been the heavy lifter person in our household lately!  LOL!  :o)  I take out the trash, push and pull it out for the garbage collectors, and take care of the yard...all in place of hubby.  But it's okay...I suppose he's worth it.  *wink*  Also, because of the surgery, he's been so fortunate to have such an understanding teacher in his last college class.  Yep, hubby will be a 2-time college graduate by the end of this year!  YAY!  I am definitely the proud wife.  :o)

In other news, we now have a new relative that is living near us.  Hubby's grandma flew in just last night from California.  He's only seen her maybe 6 times in his entire life because of living so far away, so it will be so great for him to make up for lost time with her now.  :o) 

And now for some other tidbits...

There are only TWO DAYS LEFT to get your comment in for the Julie Lessman book giveaway!  She's offering reader's choice for any one of her four books.  If you haven't gotten a hold of her new one yet, be sure you click here to leave your comment to sign up before midnight Friday, October 29th.

Next, we are only a few weeks away from seeing the winners of the first Inspy Awards.  If you have not seen the list of this year's nominees, then you really need to take a look!  There are some great books up for nomination, and as a judge, I'm already having a hard time narrowing it down to which book will be my favorite for the Amish fiction category!  :o)  (BTW, there's a great interview up with Beth Wiseman today on the Inspy site...she's one of the Amish category nominees.)

I also wanted to give a little plug today for something that I'm loving more and more every day....NetGalley!  This is THE place to catch some great galleys from a ton of publishers.  Currently, there are only 5 (at least, I think that's right) Christian publishers--Barbour, B&H, Moody, Abingdon Press, and AMG--represented over there, but honestly, that's pretty good!  :o)  Thanks to NetGalley, I've had the opportunity to read and review a lot of great books that I might not have gotten around to otherwise.  Currently through NetGalley, I'm reading the newest book by Susan Page Davis...The Blacksmith's Bravery.  You do have to sign up and have your membership approved, and the site is geared toward book reviewers.  Go check it out!

Book Review: Menu for Romance by Kaye Dacus

About the book:

The Chef and the Party Planner Each Seek the Kind of Love that Requires No Reservations


After eight years of unrequited love, Meredith Guidry decides it’s time to move on, to try to find someone who’ll love her in return. So she makes a prayerful New Year’s resolution to meet someone new and end her single status by year’s end. And when the handsome contractor she hires to finish remodeling her house asks her out, it looks like her prayer may have been answered. But dating the handsome contractor doesn’t seem to do anything to lessen Meredith’s feelings toward a certain chef she works with every day.

Executive Chef Major O’Hara has foresworn relationships, knowing he could never saddle the woman he loves with a family situation like his. When he’s offered the opportunity of a lifetime—to open his own restaurant—he must weigh his family responsibilities and feelings for Meredith with the desire to move forward in his career. Should he leave his comfortable job—and Meredith—for this once in a lifetime chance? And can he create a menu for romance to win Meredith back before he loses her forever? Will God serve up a solution before it’s too late?

My thoughts:

I do believe that I have found the author who can consistently provide me with my contemporary romance fix!  Now, I've only read 2 of her books so far, but I stand by my first statement because both of those books have been THAT GOOD!  Her Brides of Bonneterre Series has everything I love in a contemporary romance:  the heart-stopping kissing scenes, the fun (but at times, flawed) characters, and a good dose of Southern charm. 

Now, most books that try to have a Southern flair either get it right or get it wrong, and unless you're from the South, you might never know which bucket a book falls in.  Pleasantly, Menu for Romance fell into the "got it right" bucket.  :o)  If I'm not mistaken, Kaye is a from the South, so she's certainly stuck to the all-important writing rule of "write what you know."  Bonneterre is a fictional town in Louisiana that has an old-South charm.  There's a great love of family and friends there, not to mention the beautiful plantation homes that make one "ooh" and "ahh." 

Then, there's the Southernisms....things that I immediately noticed because they are already prevelant in my family (particularly obvious in my redneck brother).  A man is not called a man, but a "fella."  You don't say "everyone"--you say "y'all."  You come out of the womb with a John Wayne movie in your hands.  And your tea better be "so sweet that if you run out of syrup, you can pour it over your pancakes" (borrowed that line from Christian comedian, Mark Lowry). 

So, with all that Southern loveliness floating around, it should be easy for a couple to fall in love and start a relationship, right?  Well, almost.  Falling in love was obvious to everyone except Meredith and Major...which caused me to get a tad frustrated, but I was still understanding.  See, Major has a family secret that would be utter mortification if it got out to his friends.  And even though he's known Meredith for 8 long years, he's never been able to share this secret with her, his best friend.  So, he tries to put her out of his mind and his heart until another "fella" comes a'courting.  Equally, Meredith tries to move on past her 8-year crush on Major until she sees a certain woman making goo-goo eyes at him.  But God had other plans in mind for these two, if only they'd just open their eyes.  Trust me, it was well worth the wait once the light bulb came on for both Meredith and Major.  :o)

So, if you're a Southern gal like me, and love a great romance, then may I wholeheartedly recommend that you get yourself down the road to Wal-mart and buy yo'self a copy of this book!  (For those non-Southerners out there, most everything can be found at Wally World in our small towns.)  And if they don't have it at Wal-mart, then get to beggin', borrowin', or stealin' (well, maybe I shouldn't encourage that last one).  No matter...get yourself a copy of Menu for Romance and the book before it, Stand-In Groom.  You'll be really glad that you did.  :o)

5 Stars

**Click here for my review of Stand-In Groom.

**Many thanks to Barbour Books through NetGalley for providing a copy for review.

Book Review: The Bride Blunder by Kelly Eileen Hake

About the book:

One Name...


When Gavin Miller hires on to set up a gristmill for the prospering town of Buttonwood, Nebraska, he's looking to build more than a business. For the first time, Gavin is in a position to request the hand of the woman he's never forgotten; Miss Marguerite Chandler.

Divided Between Two Cousins,

When Marguerite's cousin steps down from the stage, Gavin realizes the terrible blunder he's made. While he never forgot Marguerite was the French word for Daisy, he'd failed to recall that the two cousins shared their grandmother's name, and Marge was the nickname of the wrong Miss Marguerite Chandler!

Equals Big Trouble for Three Hearts!

Marge rejects his offer of marriage when she discovers the truth and goes about setting up a school in town. She's found a place in Buttonwood, but just when Gavin's beginning to think maybe Marge holds a place in his life, a distraught Daisy descends upon the town with a broken heart-and a broken engagement.

Can God's will become clear even after The Bride Blunder?

My thoughts:

The Bride Blunder was a good conclusion to the Prairie Promises series by Kelly Eileen Hake.  While I must confess that book two, The Bride Backfire, was my overall favorite, The Bride Blunder served to wrap up a few loose ends with one of my favorite characters, Midge.  I really wanted to see her find the perfect mate, and believe me, she does.

What really disappointed me was that this was basically three stories in one, and at times, I simply lost interest.  I wish that Marge and Gavin's story had been more in the forefront, but unfortunately when it was, it seemed to be the same thing churned over and over again.  On the other hand, Daisy's portion of the story was really good, and I loved the determination she found in herself toward the end. 

But I've saved the best character for last....cranky Ermintrude.  Well, who wouldn't be cranky all the time with a name like that?!?!  Don't think for a second that she's not gonna give you a piece of her mind, even if you don't ask for it.  She had so much spunk and personality that, at times, she had me roaring with laughter!  Every western needs someone like her.  :o)
While this wasn't my favorite book of Kelly's, I am definitely a fan of her work.  The first two books in this series were very well-written, and I'm eager to get my hands on some of her other books.  The Bride Blunder gets a rating of 3 Stars.
 
**Many thanks to Barbour Books through NetGalley for providing a copy for review.

Book Review: Angel's Den by Jamie Carie

About the book:

In 1808, when Emma meets and marries Eric Montclaire (the famed “most handsome man west of the Appalachians”), this young daughter of prominent St. Louis citizens believes a fairy tale has just begun. Instead, her husband’s angelic looks quickly prove only to mask a monstrous soul all too capable of possessive emotions and physical abuse. Praying for mercy, she is devastated when Eric insists on her joining his yearlong group expedition to the Pacific Ocean, following the trail Lewis and Clark blazed just a few years earlier. By the time cartographer Luke Bowen realizes Emma’s plight, it’s too late to easily untangle what has become an epic web of lies, theft, murder, courtroom drama, and a deep longing for love. Only God can show them the way out.

My thoughts:

I truly was captivated from the very beginning of this story with the start of new love and a beautiful wedding, but looks certainly were deceiving. What followed was a horrific tale of hidden abuse and pain experienced by Emma. Eric, her groom, was the epitome of all things hateful, and I absolutely despised his treatment of Emma. He made sure that no one knew, except her, what he was really like underneath his "beautiful" exterior.

While, by no means, I thought this was a bad book, I felt it had the potential to be just a little better than it was. For example, the ending felt rushed, and I would've liked the epilogue to have stretched out maybe 2 or 3 years rather than 7 years later. I also would've liked the book to have had more historical elements included in it, particularly about the Lewis and Clark Expedition. And unless I missed it, I think there was an important character left out of the trial at the end.

This was my first opportunity to read anything by Jamie Carie, and in spite of my mixed feelings of this book, I'm anxious to read more of her novels. Her portrayal of each character's emotions was superb, and that left me rooting for the good guys to succeed and the bad guys to fail. It also had a bit of an edgy quality about it, and that made me like it all the more. Angel's Den gets a solid 4 stars from me.

Book Review: The Gunsmith's Gallantry by Susan Page Davis

About the book:

Can the shy gunsmith and the widowed storekeeper find love when everything around them is in an uproar?

Hiram Dooley has problems—women problems! His sister’s about to leave him to get married (if Sheriff Ethan Chapman ever proposes); his sister-in-law, Rose, thinks Hiram should marry her, since they’re both widowed; and the woman he truly loves, Libby Adams, is blind to his regard.

The schoolmarm has a different problem—a man claiming to be her uncle came to Fergus. . .and then disappeared. Did her father kill him? Can the Ladies’ Shooting Club once again ride to the rescue?

My thoughts:

Once again, I loved visiting this little town of Fergus, Idaho. It's a little place where everybody knows everybody, and they all want to see each other succeed. Of course, there's a few ruffians and troublemakers, but between the town sheriff and the Ladies Shooting Club, they don't stay around for long!

If you haven't read book one in this series, I highly suggest that you start there first. The Sheriff's Surrender is a good introduction to the whole town and its citizens, and it's got a good mystery to go along with it. The Gunsmith's Gallantry was a little different. It dealt more with getting to know the characters more which I really appreciated. The only thing I would've liked more of was Hiram! Bless his heart, he's the most soft-spoken character I've ever come across in any book, much less in real life, and it's almost unnatural to me for someone to speak so little. Oh well, guess that's what gives him his charm. :o)

I also liked reading more about Isabel and her father, Cy. While I didn't really care for either of them in book one (Cy still wasn't a favorite of mine in book 2), I genuinely cared about Isabel's future in this book. I can't wait to see if things will turn out like I'm expecting them to between her and a certain gentleman in book 3.

All in all, if you like a good western story that's got a good dose of something from almost every genre, then you can't go wrong with the Ladies Shooting Club series. I'm so glad that I only have to wait until November to read book 3, The Blacksmith's Bravery!

4 Stars

**Many thanks to the author for sending me a copy to review.

**Click here to read my review of book one, The Sheriff's Surrender.