by admin | Jul 11, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction
MY REVIEW:
I have very much enjoyed the previous books in the Windy City Neighbors series. I love reading about the lives of these Chicago residents from a different perspective in each novel. In “Penny Wise” the focus is on Michelle Jasper and her family but never fear, all of her beloved neighbors make appearances throughout the story with some taking more of a part than others.
I could relate to Michelle and her stress levels. Our circumstances were different but I too had a habit of taking on more than I could handle easily but loved every minute of it and I also have a husband who used to work far too many hours which often left me to contend with the needs of our children alone. So yes, I understood why Michelle was on the edge of burnout. I also guessed her surprise early in the story but had to wait awhile for her to guess what it was.
My favorite part of the entire book was Michelle’s experience with the pennies but I will leave it to the reader to discover the significance on her own. I think the major thing I like best about this series is that the characters and their faith (or lack of) are so real. Estelle in particular is a walking, talking example of what she believes. She absolutely puts me and most Christians I know to shame. I wish I had someone like her in my own life. I also liked how Grace responded to Michelle’s confession of her struggles with her unexpected news.
Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of “Penny Wise” as well as the previous books in this series. They are so worth it.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Penny Wise | A Windy City Neighbors book
Michelle Jasper doesn’t have much time to hang out with her neighbors—not with thirteen-year-old twins, another teen with hoop dreams, a full-time job as a caseworker, volunteering at a crisis pregnancy center, and heading up the women’s ministry at Northside Baptist. Her husband’s constantly changing shifts as an air traffic controller at the world’s busiest airport—Chicago’s O’Hare International—and responsibilities as a trusted deacon at Northside only add to the juggling act at the Jasper household.
Her new neighbors, Harry and Estelle Bentley, mean well with their friendly efforts to bring people together, but how can she deal with neighborhood concerns—like Greg Singer, who lost his job and is now trying to recruit sales reps from the neighborhood for his new venture—when she’s confronted with tragic family situations daily in her job? Like little Candy and her baby brother Pookey, victims of neglect . . .
With the “tyranny of the urgent” crowding out the important, Michelle is blindsided by danger involving her own kids—and a personal crisis that calls into question the very values she holds dear. How could this happen? Does God even care?
As her life unravels, a missing penny—and a “penny from heaven”—give her a shred of hope. But will God just laugh at her penny test?
Learn more and purchase a copy here.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
Dave and Neta Jackson are award-winning authors living in the Chicago area where their parallel novels from the Yada Yada House of Hope and Harry Bentley series are set.
As a husband/wife writing team, Dave and Neta Jackson are enthusiastic about books, kids, walking with God, gospel music, and each other! Together they are the authors or coauthors of over 100 books.
Find out more about Dave and Neta at http://www.daveneta.com/.
by admin | Jul 9, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingHope DeferredHopeSprings Books (July 1, 2014)byElizabeth MaddreyABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Elizabeth Maddrey is a semi-reformed computer geek and homeschooling mother of two who loves a good happily ever after.
Elizabeth Maddrey began writing stories as soon as she could form the letters properly and has never looked back. Though her practical nature and love of computers, math, and organization steered her into computer science at Wheaton College, she always had one or more stories in progress to occupy her free time. This continued through a Master’s program in Software Engineering, several years in the computer industry, teaching programming at the college level, and a Ph.D. in Computer Technology in Education. When she isn’t writing, Elizabeth is a voracious consumer of books and has mastered the art of reading while undertaking just about any other activity.
She lives in the suburbs of Washington, D.C. with her husband and their two incredibly active little boys.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Christian fiction for women.
Can pursuit of a blessing become a curse?
June and July and their husbands have spent the last year trying to start a family and now they’re desperate for answers. As one couple works with specialists to see how medicine can help them conceive, the other must fight to save their marriage.
Will their deferred hope leave them heart sick, or start them on the path to the fulfillment of their dreams?
If you would like to read the first chapter of Hope Deferred, go HERE.
by admin | Jul 5, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Political, Suspense
MY REVIEW:
Written as a companion book to the movie by the same name to be released in July 2014, “Persecuted” probably doesn’t have the usual plot and character development readers of Robin Parrish novels have come to expect. Nevertheless the story very likely will fill in gaps missing from the film due to the very nature of its format. Despite the fact that the book reads much like an action movie, it was one that held my attention and proved to be very thought-provoking.
In my opinion, this story is not so much about the persecution of Christians but legislation that could lead to future persecution. I felt that the main focus here was the lengths those in power will go to shut down those who stand against them, especially if those people carry any influence over others. This story is one that could happen in today’s government and similar situations may already have occurred, unknown to the public. Just watching the national news allows glimpses into possible behind-the-scenes corruption and machinations.
“Persecuted” had a fast moving plot with lots of action and suspense. Ryan was a good example of how easily some people can be manipulated and John Luther was a man we would do well to emulate. We must stand up for what we believe before it is too late.
This book was provided for review by FlyBy Promotions Blogger Network.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
The Question Is Not IF Attempts Will Be Made to Limit Religious Freedoms, But When
The most popular evangelist of his day, John Luther, simply wants to share the Gospel and enjoy a quiet life with his family. He never asked to be at the center of a political controversy, but an ill wind has been blowing through the halls of Congress, and supporters of a new religious-equality bill see Luther’s endorsement as critical. But when Luther refuses to lend his support, he unknowingly sets in motion an explosive plan bent on destroying his reputation and undermining everything for which he stands. His once-normal life is turned upside down as he becomes a fugitive left with only one dangerous option–putting everything he holds most dear at risk while he fights to expose the truth. It is a mission that brings him face-to-face with the coming storm of persecution that could threaten the very fabric of our nation’s freedoms.
Bethany House Publishers presents Robin Parrish’s official novelization of the Daniel Lusko film, Persecuted. Available in cloth hardback, trade paperback, and ebook formats.
Read an excerpt from “Persecuted” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Robin Parrish is a journalist who’s written about the intersection of faith and pop culture for more than a decade. He’s also the author of Offworld and The Dominion Trilogy . Robin and his wife and children live in North Carolina. Visit Robin’s website…www.robinparrish.com
Buzz about the film:“Bringing the battle of FREE SPEECH to light.” FoxNews
“House of Cards for the religious sect.” – POLITICO
“A big thumbs-up.” – American Family Association |
Be sure to check out PERSECUTED the movie at a theatre near you, July 18th!
Visit the official movie website: http://www.persecutedmovie.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/persecutedmovie |
GIVEAWAY:
I have one copy of “Persecuted” to give away. Please leave a comment on this post by Monday, July 14 for a chance to win.
“Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.
Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”
by admin | Jul 1, 2014 | Amish, Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“The Revealing” was a fine conclusion to an excellent Amish series. It has been fun following members of the Schrock family and their friends and neighbors through good times and bad. The story continues with characters from the previous books. Several relationships seem to be in jeopardy due to misunderstandings and continued stress from the aftermath of the Schrock Investments failure. Naomi King has a big secret she’s keeping to herself and the guilt has her eating antacids like candy. An unexpected visitor to the Schrock home threatens to turn her world upside down. A distant relative staying with the “sisters” is supposedly looking into his genealogical background but could he be up to no good? And what about the new guest at the Inn at Eagle Hill? How will she figure into the story?
I enjoyed reading this last book in the series and thought that the author tied up all the loose ends admirably. I loved visiting with Rose and Galen, Bethany and Jimmy again. And Mim as Mrs. Miracle is so much fun. So many questions were answered with a few surprises along the way. Justice was served and once again it was evident that God is in charge.
I do hope that Suzanne will feature Mim in a book of her own sometime soon. I’d love to read about her as she discovers a love of her own.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Love does extraordinary things to people . . .
In a single, impulsive act, Naomi King chooses to follow her heart into unfamiliar territory, jeopardizing all that she holds dear. If anyone finds out what she’s up to, she’s in for trouble. But when it comes to Tobe Schrock, Naomi believes it’s worth it.
But it all comes crashing down when a young woman arrives at the Inn at Eagle Hill with an unexpected delivery for Tobe. Add a guest at the inn with a curious talent and a genealogist who is more interested in modern-day Schrocks than in old family trees, and evidence starts to mount that points to something sinister at work. Or someone.
In this riveting conclusion to The Inn at Eagle Hill series, bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher pulls out all the stops with a fast-paced tale of deception, revelation, and romance.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Suzanne Woods Fisher is the bestselling author of The Letters, The Calling, the Lancaster County Secrets series, and the Stoney Ridge Seasons series, as well as nonfiction books about the Amish, including Amish Peace. She is also the coauthor of an Amish children’s series, The Adventures of Lily Lapp. Suzanne is a Carol Award winner for The Search, a Carol Award finalist for The Choice, and a Christy Award finalist for The Waiting. She is also a columnist for Christian Post and Cooking & Such magazines. She lives in California. Learn more at www.suzannewoodsfisher.com and connect with Suzanne on Twitter @suzannewfisher.
by admin | Jul 1, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
As usual Susan May Warren’s latest novel kept me totally enthralled from the beginning to the end. Featuring Grace, the Christiansen sister who is a homebody and who tends to view life from the sidelines. A surprise gift of a trip to Hawaii and her new friend Max Sharpe are the beginnings of major changes to her formerly safe existence. Pro hockey star Max shares Grace’s love of cooking and finds himself attracted to her beauty, determination, and courage but an uncertain future fuels his fear of falling in love.
Warren’s characters are both realistic and honest. Her plot is compelling and paced perfectly. The romance between Grace and Max was poignant with difficult decisions that defined the true meaning of love. Although the story was laced with Christian references, the message was gentle, encouraging, and never pushy. With a strong theme of finding out God’s plan for one’s life rather than following your own instincts, “When I Fall In Love” could be a good example for those struggling in that area.
“When I Fall In Love” also contained a side story involving her brother Casper that was not resolved to my personal satisfaction. I am hoping for a separate volume with the rest of his story in the future. I also look forward to Owen’s personal tale and hope to see him overcome his own demons.
“When I Fall In Love” totally lived up to the quality novel that I have come to expect from Susan May Warren. I highly recommend it as well as any other book in her collection.
This book was provided for review by The Tyndale Blog Network.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Hawaii was the last place Grace Christiansen ever imagined she’d vacation, much less fall in love. But when her family surprises her with a cooking retreat in paradise, she is pulled—or maybe yanked—away from her predictable, safe life and thrown headfirst into the adventure of a lifetime.
Max Sharpe may make his living on the ice as a pro hockey player, but he feels most at home in the kitchen. Which is why he lives for the three-week culinary vacation he takes each year in Hawaii. Upon being paired with Grace for a cooking competition, Max finds himself drawn to her passion, confidence, and perseverance. But just when Grace dares to dream of a future beyond her hometown, Max pulls away.
Wrestling with personal demons, Max fights against opening his heart to a love he knows he should never hope for. And as his secrets unfold, Grace is torn between the safe path in front of her and what her heart truly desires. If love means sacrificing her ideal happily ever after, Grace’s faith will face its toughest test yet.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Susan May Warren is the bestselling, Christy and RITA Award–winning author of more than forty novels whose compelling plots and unforgettable characters have won acclaim with readers and reviewers alike. She served with her husband and four children as a missionary in Russia for eight years before she and her family returned home to the States. She now writes full-time as her husband runs a lodge on Lake Superior in northern Minnesota, where many of her books are set. She and her family enjoy hiking, canoeing, and being involved in their local church.
Susan holds a BA in mass communications from the University of Minnesota. Several of her critically acclaimed novels have been ECPA and CBA bestsellers, were chosen as Top Picks by Romantic Times, and have won the RWA’s Inspirational Reader’s Choice contest and the American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year award. Five of her books have been Christy Award finalists. In addition to her writing, Susan loves to teach and speak at women’s events about God’s amazing grace in our lives.
For exciting updates on her new releases, previous books, and more, visit her website at www.susanmaywarren.com.
by admin | Jun 27, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Quilts, Romance
This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingRival HeartsAbingdon Press (June 17, 2014)byTara RandelABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Tara Randel has enjoyed a lifelong love of books, especially romance and mystery genres, so it didn’t come as a surprise when she began writing with the dream of becoming published. After finding Romantic Times magazine in a bookstore many years ago, she found information about writing organizations. Soon after, she joined Romance Writers of America. She located the local RWA chapter and immediately attended her first meeting. There was no stopping her after that!
Through Tampa Area Romance Authors, Tara learned all about the business of publishing, starting with the craft of writing to behind the scenes of publishing. She served as contest coordinator for four years and served as President for one year, enjoying the organization and the lasting friendships made there.
When not writing, Tara owns a business with her husband and stays busy with her two daughters. She lives on the West Coast of Florida, where gorgeous sunsets inspire the creation of heartwarming stories, filled with love, laughter and the occasional mystery. Enjoy!
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Molly Henderson and Ben Weaver have been rival magazine writers for the same publishing group for years. When both come up for the same promotion, they find themselves in an unexpected competition to win the spot. Molly, editor of Quilter’s Heart, and Ben, editor of Outdoor Adventures, must switch roles, each working for the other for one month, then submit an article at the end of their quests.
Can girly-girl Molly survive the outdoor adventures that Ben has planned? Can Ben navigate the perils of the social dynamics of quilting events without destroying a valuable quilt in one short month? More importantly, in this he-said, she-said situation, will Molly and Ben give in to their attraction and fall in love, no matter who wins?
If you would like to read the first chapter of Rival Hearts, go HERE.
MY REVIEW:
Rival Hearts was a light-hearted contemporary story in which two co-workers are forced to compete to win a coveted promotion. The catch is that each must succeed at something the other excels in which presents a bit of a challenge. Molly is a talented quilter but has never been outdoorsy or athletic because of her childhood allergies. On the other hand Ben is an outdoorsman/sportsman extraordinaire. As one might imagine, things get quite entertaining as Molly attempts to learn to kayak and Ben tries his hand at a quilt.
A fun and often humorous tale, Rival Hearts held my attention throughout. The characters were well-rounded and the plot revealed a few surprises as it progressed. This novel is just the right thing for a lazy summer day when you want a book that doesn’t make you think too hard. I enjoyed Rival Hearts and would read another book by this author.
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