by admin | Nov 20, 2017 | Amish, Books, Christmas, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Once again Shelley Shepard Gray has written a book about the Amish that held my attention until the very end. The story gets started quickly with an accident (or was it?) that injures Susanna Schwartz and her rescuer just happens to be Neil Vance whose family had owned the farm that now belonged to Susanna’s family. Not only does the Vance family resent the new owners of their former home but it seems that the entire community blames the Schwartz family for the Vance family loss. As more accidents and vandalism take place, it becomes obvious that someone wants the Schwartz family to leave. The question is “Who would risk hurting someone because of an unfounded grudge?”
Although Neil seemed pretty unlikable at the beginning, it soon became evident that it was not his true nature. It didn’t take long for the sweet and forgiving Susanna to win him over as a friend. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow into something special and wondered right along with them what exactly was going on in their community.
This book has it all – a sweet romance and a dangerous mystery. Not only that but the reader will find a bonus romance in the works too. “The Gift” is a wonderful story laced with forgiveness and is perfect for the Christmas season. Once again I am pleased to recommend a book by Shelley Shepard Gray.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Litfuse Publicity. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A special Christmas story about love and blessings in the next book in the Amish of Hart County series
The Schwartz family is happy to be spending Christmas on their new farm in Hart County. But when Susanna Schwartz hears gunshots that causes her buggy to overturn, and then her little sister falls through a wooden bridge into the icy creek, it becomes clear from these dangerous “accidents” that someone wants them gone.
Neil Vance has been heartbroken ever since his parents lost their family farm. He knows it’s not the Schwartz family’s fault, but he can’t help but be resentful. Until he meets Susanna. She is kind-hearted and bold, and Neil can’t stop thinking about her pretty green eyes.
Neil thinks the accidents are just that, but Susanna’s father is convinced the Vance family is responsible. Susanna refuses to believe Neil would do anything to harm her. She’s fallen in love with him and knows he is a good man. But her family is ready to pack up and move, and time is running out to uncover the truth before someone gets hurt . . . or worse.
Learn more and purchase a copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Shelley Shepard Gray is a “New York Times” and “USA Today” bestselling author, a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers prestigious Carol Award, and a two-time HOLT Medallion winner. She lives in southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town’s bike trail.
Find out more about Shelley at http://www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
by admin | Nov 6, 2017 | Books, Christmas, Historical, Love Inspired, Romance
MY REVIEW:
In this heartwarming tale, a still grieving young widower feels obligated to take in an elderly couple and their grandson’s widow after their house is destroyed by fire. Although he has mostly isolated himself from others since his wife’s death, Oscar finds himself drawn to the family despite his determination to remain as disconnected as possible. What else could he do as he watches his young daughter blossom under their care.
“A Child’s Christmas Wish” is perfectly delightful book for the approaching holiday season. I loved all the characters from gruff Oscar to his lively daughter Liesl as well as each of the Amaker family. Filled with large doses of kindness, faith, and traditional Christmas celebrations, the story ended much too soon for me.
I have enjoyed many books by this author and this one was no exception. I would highly recommend adding it to your Christmas reading list.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by the author. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A Baby for Christmas
The only Christmas gift Oscar Rabb’s four-year-old daughter prays for is one the widower can’t provide: a baby sibling. And when his neighbor’s house burns down, he’s willing to open his home to pregnant and widowed Kate Amaker and her in-laws—but not his heart. Even if his little girl’s convinced Kate’s unborn child is the answer to her wish.
Kate quickly sees the generous but aloof Oscar has little interest in growing closer to his houseguests. Still, she intends to make the coming Christmas a season to remember for his daughter. And as Oscar starts to open up to her, Kate can’t help picturing just how wonderful the holidays—and a future together—might be.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Erica Vetsch is a transplanted Kansan now residing in Minnesota. She loves history and romance, and is blessed to be able to combine the two by writing historical romances. Whenever she’s not immersed in fictional worlds, she’s the company bookkeeper for the family lumber business, mother of two, wife to a man who is her total opposite and soul-mate, and avid museum patron.
by admin | Oct 30, 2017 | Books, Christmas, Civil War, Historical, Nashville, Romance, Tennessee
MY REVIEW:
I have been reading Tamera Alexander’s books since her very first one and have enjoyed them so much that she is one of the authors I must read. As a Tennessean I have so much appreciated her novels set in the Nashville and Franklin area which are just a three to four hour drive from my home. It is so interesting to learn more about my state’s history in the form of a well-researched novel that makes the people come to life for readers.
“Christmas at Carnton” is the perfect Christmas book for history lovers, especially those who find the Civil War of interest. Not only does it contain a heart-warming romance but it includes a detailed look at life in middle Tennessee during that era from the luxuries on the plantation to the deprivations of widows and children. It was fun to visit Carnton through the eyes of Aletta and Jake as they received such a warm and caring welcome from Colonel John McGavock‘s family.
A fine story filled with hope and faith, “Christmas at Carnton” should be an excellent gift for someone you know or even for yourself.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Litfuse Publicity. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Amid war and the fading dream of the Confederacy, a wounded soldier and a destitute widow discover the true meaning of Christmas—and sacrificial love.
Recently widowed, Aletta Prescott struggles to hold life together for herself and her six-year-old son. With the bank threatening to evict them, she discovers an advertisement for the Women’s Relief Society auction and applies for a position—only to discover it’s been filled. Then a chance meeting with a wounded soldier offers another opportunity—and friendship. But can Aletta trust this man?
Captain Jake Winston, a revered Confederate sharpshooter, suffered a head wound at the Battle of Chickamauga. When doctors deliver their diagnosis, Jake fears losing not only his greatest skill but his very identity. As he heals, Jake is ordered to assist with a local Women’s Relief Society auction. He respectfully objects. Kowtowing to a bunch of “crinolines” isn’t his idea of soldiering. But orders are orders, and he soon discovers this group of ladies—one, in particular—is far more than he bargained for.
Set against the backdrop and history of the Carnton Plantation in Franklin, Tennessee, Christmas at Carnton is a story of hope renewed and faith restored at Christmas.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Mandy Whitley Photography)
Tamera Alexander is a USA Today bestselling author and one of today’s most popular writers in the historical fiction genre. She and her husband live in Nashville, Tennessee, not far from the Southern mansions that serve as the backdrop for six of her award-winning novels. For more about Tamera’s books, visit www.TameraAlexander.com
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by admin | Oct 22, 2017 | Books, Christmas
MY REVIEW:
“Colors of Christmas” contains two individual novellas centered around the Christmas season. Both stories are heart-warming and encouraging portrayals of hope for those who might not be inclined to celebrate due to personal pain or disappointments.
“Christmas in Gold” features Astrid who has been forced by an accident to move into an assisted living community. Her new life is vastly different from what she is accustomed but Astrid is determined to make the best of it. She quickly makes a few friends but is especially drawn to her physical therapist who obviously needs encouragement. This lovely story illustrates so well how our own suffering prepares us to minister to others who need hope to overcome the burdens they carry.
“Christmas in Blue” features Angela who is still grieving the death of her best friend and would rather just sleep through Christmas. When she finds herself in charge of the annual town Christmas celebration, everything that could go wrong does. With the help of faithful friends and a little boy, somehow they manage to pull it off. I especially enjoyed the chapter about the Blue Christmas church service on December 21 and the meaningful scriptures and comments made by the pastor. The Christmas Eve service near the end was also especially touching.
“Colors of Christmas” is an excellent book to prepare your heart for the true meaning and hope of the season.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Click to purchase
Christmas in Blue
Angela just wants Christmas to be over. Instead, she finds herself in charge of the town’s celebration, and everything goes from bad to worse. Can she rescue Christmas for the town—and herself?
Christmas in Gold
When eighty-year-old Astrid moves into an assisted living community and meets a young woman on the brink of despair, she resolves to stir up Christmas hope one more time.
Click here to purchase your copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Olivia Newport’s novels twist through time to find where faith and passions meet. Her husband and twenty-something children provide welcome distraction from the people stomping through her head on their way into her books. She chases joy in stunning Colorado at the foot of the Rockies, where daylilies grow as tall as she is.
GUEST POST FROM OLIVIA NEWPORT:
We All Have a Story
I’m younger than most of the people I exercise with. It started when I had a lot of pain in my feet and needed low-impact classes with the option of sitting down and learned I didn’t have to be a senior citizen to take their classes at my gym. Then I discovered how tough most of them are. Years later, though my feet are better, these are still my people.
A couple of years ago, while we waited for the younger and allegedly-but-not-really-tougher crowd to clear out of the group exercise room so we could invade it, a woman I would not have guessed to be 80, because she could out-cardio and out-lift me any day of the week, mentioned she had been widowed since she was 39. And she’d been widowed the first time at 19. And she’d grown up in Germany while Hitler was intent on destroying Europe and life was not easy.
Then the changing of the guard happened and I was left with my mouth gaping. I knew I had to hear this story. The next week after class, we went across the parking lot to Culvers for lunch and I scribbled notes on the backs of a pile of brown napkins while Astrid talked. Later she let me read the account of her life that she had written herself.
Astrid faced so many tragic circumstances, but she would be the first to tell you that God was with her even before she knew how to call on him. Many people with her life story would have found plenty of reason to wallow and stagnate. But not Astrid. Truly she is one of the most hopeful people I know.
Her story was the beginning of Colors of Christmas, which includes two stories. Astrid’s is “Christmas in Gold,” and the other is “Christmas in Blue.” Astrid inspired me to write about hope for a time of year when the Christian message resounds with hope yet so many people struggle to grasp hope for themselves. I pray these stories will help many recover a sense of hope afresh.
Olivia Newport chases joy in Colorado at the foot of the Rockies, where daylilies grow as tall as she is.
BLOG STOPS:
Books N Baubles, October 17
Christian Bookaholic, October 17
Bukwurmzzz, October 17
Janices book reviews, October 18
Singing Librarian Books, October 18
Moments Dipped in Ink, October 18
A Simply Enchanted Life, October 19
G.O. & D’S QUILTS & BOOKS, October 19
Bigreadersite, October 19
Reader’s cozy corner, October 20
Have A Wonderful Day, October 20
Reflections from my bookshelves, October 20
Blogging With Carol, October 21
Just the Write Escape, October 21
Zerina Blossom’s Books, October 21
A Greater Yes, October 22
Mary Hake, October 22
Daysong Reflections, October 22
A Baker’s Perspective, October 23
Ashley’s Bookshelf, October 23
Baker Kella, October 23
Smiling Book Reviews, October 23
The Fizzy Pop Collection, October 24
It’s Storytime With Van Daniker, October 24
Remembrancy, October 24
Carpe Diem, October 25
autism mom, October 25
Bibliophile Reviews, October 25
A Reader’s Brain, October 26
By The Book, October 26
The Power of Words, October 26
With a Joyful Noise, October 27
Pause for Tales, October 27
Splashes of Joy, October 27
Jeanette’s Thoughts, October 28
Christian Chick’s Thoughts, October 28
Karen Sue Hadley, October 28
Reading Is My SuperPower, October 28
Vicky Sluiter, October 29
To Everything a Season, October 29
Pursuing Stacie, October 29
Just Jo’Anne, October 30
Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 30
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 30
GIVEAWAY:
To celebrate her tour, Olivia is giving away a grand prize of a Christmas Bundle Bonanza which includes 7 Jumbo rolls of Christmas wrapping paper, 2 sets of stick-on gift tags, 2 packages of Christmas cards and envelopes, 2 collections of Christmas novellas—18 stories in all, and a signed copy of Colors of Christmas!!
Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!
https://promosimple.com/ps/c319
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by admin | Sep 24, 2017 | Books, Christmas, Historical
MY REVIEW:
I always look forward to Melody Carlson’s Christmas book each year. It has become such a tradition for me that Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without them. This year’s book “The Christmas Blessing” is a historical one that takes place during the World War 2 years.
As is often the case, the story is a poignant one that pulls at the reader’s heartstrings. It is also filled with hope and joy and comes complete with a glorious surprise or two before its end.Although the story is short and character development is limited, the author still manages to make her readers care about what happens to Amelia and her baby.
This small hardback can easily be read in an evening or two which is a perfect break from the hustle and bustle of the winter holidays. So grab a hot drink and a warm throw and take a short break with this lovely little novel. I may just join you be reading it again closer to Christmas.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Although Amelia would be on the train only until tomorrow morning, she unpacked a few things with the goal of making Jimmy and herself as comfortable as possible. To her delight, this cozy sleeping car felt just right for the two of them. Not only that, but as the train began to move, Jimmy relaxed and settled in. Almost as if he were glad they were finally on their way. Maybe he instinctively knew that life was about to get better for them. Perhaps he would enjoy meeting his paternal grandparents. At the moment the train pulled out of the station, anything seemed possible.
She’s determined to give her baby a better life.
Could a Christmas miracle make it possible?
Not long after she receives the news in 1944 that her baby’s father was shot down in the South Pacific, Amelia Richards loses hope. Jobless and broke, she has nowhere to turn for help but her infant’s paternal grandparents. The only problem is, they don’t know that she–or their grandson–exists.
When Amelia discovers the family is wealthy and influential, dare she disclose the truth of her relationship with their son? Or could the celebration of the arrival of another unexpected baby nearly two thousand years ago be the answer to her dilemma?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books with combined sales of more than six million. She is the author of several Christmas books, including the bestselling The Christmas Bus, The Christmas Dog, Christmas at Harrington’s, The Christmas Cat, The Christmas Joy Ride, and The Christmas Angel Project. She received a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her many books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series and Finding Alice. She and her husband live in central Oregon. Learn more at www.melodycarlson.com.
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by admin | Sep 18, 2017 | Books, Christmas, England, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I have to admit that I haven’t read either “Bleak House” by Charles Dickens or “Then There Were None” by Agatha Christie as mentioned by other reviewers but I enjoyed “12 Days at Bleakly Manor” nonetheless. And yes, I would like to read both of those books if only to understand their references here.
The gorgeous cover prepares the reader for a delightful Victorian Christmas adventure with just a hint of darkness inside but oh my, some of the characters and happenings were quite unexpected. It was such fun watching what transpired and anticipating what might happen next. Everything about this book was so clever and I loved the surprises at the end!
I cannot say more because I fear I might give everything away. Just take my word for it, do yourself a favor, and pick up a copy of “12 Days at Bleakly Manor” for your holiday reading. I warn you though that you might not want to wait that long to read it.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Barbour Books. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A mysterious invitation to spend Christmas at an English manor home may bring danger…and love?
England, 1851: When Clara Chapman receives an intriguing invitation to spend Christmas at an English manor home, she is hesitant yet feels compelled to attend—for if she remains the duration of the twelve-day celebration, she is promised a sum of five hundred pounds.
But is she walking into danger? It appears so, especially when she comes face to face with one of the other guests—her former fiancé, Benjamin Lane.
Imprisoned unjustly, Ben wants revenge on whoever stole his honor. When he’s given the chance to gain his freedom, he jumps at it—and is faced with the anger of the woman he stood up at the altar. Brought together under mysterious circumstances, Clara and Ben discover that what they’ve been striving for isn’t what ultimately matters.
What matters most is what Christmas is all about . . . love.
Pour a cup of tea and settle in for Book 1 of the Once Upon a Dickens Christmas series–a page-turning Victorian-era holiday tale–by Michelle Griep, a reader and critic favorite.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Michelle Griep’s been writing since she first discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. She seeks to glorify God in all that she writes—except for that graffiti phase she went through as a teenager. She resides in the frozen tundra of Minnesota, where she teaches history and writing classes for a local high school co-op. An Anglophile at heart, she runs away to England every chance she gets, under the guise of research. Really, though, she’s eating excessive amounts of scones while rambling around a castle. Michelle is a member of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) and MCWG (Minnesota Christian Writers Guild). Keep up with her adventures at her blog “Writer off the Leash” or visit michellegriep.com
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