by admin | Jun 21, 2016 | Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“More Than She Dreamt” is a sweet, historical romance novel that made me think of all the Grace Livingston Hill novels I devoured at one time of my life. I believe it was the dialogue that gave me that impression at first, then the lofty thoughts Danny had about Katie clinched it for me.
The story wasn’t all sweet and light though. Young widow Katie Jensen had been through some hard times and had sacrificed much for her children and had their well-being as her priority. When she felt the Lord prompt her to leave her uncle’s home, she left with bare minimum funds and her faith, buoyed by her young son’s constant reminders that “the Lord will provide”. And provide He did! Yet in the midst of that provision, Katie’s faith was put to the test over and over as danger stalked her more than once.
Character development in “More Than She Dreamt” was well done and the plot moved along at a fairly decent pace. Some readers might find the story just a bit too sweet but I felt that the sweetness was tempered well by the added danger and suspense. Then we can’t forget those precious children who provided abundant humor throughout the story.
“More Than She Dreamt” is a novel filled with hope and faith that demonstrates how important it is to trust and depend on the Lord and to follow His lead.
A copy of this book was provided for review by Celebrate Lit.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
It was more than she dreamt. But as the romance began to bud, she felt the thorns of a heartless beauty rise to tear it apart.
Young widow, Katie Jensen, endures patiently under her oppressive uncle in desolate Arizona Territory. She tries to keep her promise to her dead aunt to be a witness and take care of her uncle but when his tirades grow worse, she gathers her two precious little ones and runs.
Making their way to an unknown land, they come to the town of White Rock, which is strangely like the place in the dreams Katie has been having. They are welcomed into the cottage of a kindly grandmother who takes in borders.
When Danny, the older woman’s grandson, comes home, he finds surprises in store: a crisis, a beautiful young woman, and her adorable children who bring laughter and life into all their weary souls.
Katie is filled with hope when an unexpected romance sparks but there is a vindictive raven-haired beauty and an old enemy conspiring to put it out—permanently.
Will God give Katie rest as she and the family pray for their enemies?
Can she stand strong in her faith when fear overwhelms her?
Purchase your copy here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Sandy Faye Mauck writes Historical Romance in the light of the gospel and with the heart of her Savior.
Slip into a comfy chair with a cup of tea, coffee or hot chocolate and travel back to the first years after the turn of the century.
Enjoy faithful Christian characters who have come through a spiritual wilderness into a place of hope. Stories of charming romance sprinkled with humor and topped with redemption. And be sure not to put the cup too close to the edge of the table because there are enemies lurking about.
Sandy lives in her own happily-ever-after with her Bible doctrine writer husband in the west they love. They have five children and nine grandchildren. She enjoys crocheting (a different kind of yarn) and is also a professional artist.
Guest Post from Sandy Faye Mauck:
Hi everyone! Sandy Faye Mauck here! Today I launch my book on Celebrate Lit!
They say to write the book that is missing from your bookshelf. So I did. I wrote a story that brought the purity of a Christian romance with a touch of humor and endearing characters who live what they believe, with real enemies and redemptive grace.
More Than She Dreamt is set at the time just after the turn of the century. Probably my favorite time travel place if I had to choose because of the interesting changes and the lovely clothing and yet there was indoor plumbing, and lights, LOL!
My greatest writing inspiration (other than my Lord), was my favorite author, Grace Livingston Hill. She could tell a story, make you feel you were there in every sense. Grace could bring romance, excitement, and enemies and then touch your heart with a truth of God’s word that would penetrate your heart. I hope to do this as I write my heart and I add humor because that is who I am.
I hope you enjoy this Celebrate Lit Blog Tour and the special personal giveaway at the end!
Blog Tour Stops:
June 14: cherylbbookblog
June 15: Singing Librarian Books
June 16: Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner
June 17: D’S QUILTS & BOOKS
June 18: Bigreadersite
June 18: Cassandra M’s Place
June 19: A Greater Yes
June 19: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations
June 20: Pause for Tales
June 21: Daysong Reflections
June 22: A Holland Reads
June 23: Splashes of Joy
June 23: Christian Bookaholic
June 24: Book Bites, Bee Stings, and Butterfly Kisses
June 25: Red Headed Book Lady
June 25: It’s Storytime With Van Daniker
June 26: Bukwurmzzz
June 27: For the Love of books
Giveaway:
To celebrate her tour, Sandy is giving away a charming keepsake box filled with some Rose Arbor themed prizes. Enter here: https://promosimple.com/ps/9c26
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by admin | Jun 19, 2016 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
My daughter and her husband have been living in a small town on the Oregon coast for the past six months as traveling physical therapy assistants so I have especially enjoyed reading the Hope Harbor series. I seriously doubt that they have encountered people such as those who inhabit the pages of these books. I would very much like them to encounter someone like Charlie and his taco stand.
I have long been a fan of Irene Hannon’s suspense novels and have been delighted to find she is equally adept at writing contemporary romance novels. One thing I particularly liked about “Sea Rose Lane” is that although a romantic relationship between Eric and BJ was expected, there was such a focus on their personal growth as well as their involvement with others. Through their helping others, they each found emotional healing and direction for their lives.
It was fun to reconnect with familiar characters from “Hope Harbor”, especially Charlie who had a knack of being at his taco stand at just the right time with just the right words of wisdom. Then there were the seagull couple and the burping seal who added the perfect touch of whimsy to the story.
I am loving this series and would like it to go on beyond the usual trilogy. I can’t wait for the next installment!
A copy of this book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Two people starting over . . . in a town known for second chances
After a devastating layoff, attorney Eric Nash heads back to Hope Harbor–only to discover that his childhood home is being transformed into a bed and breakfast. Instead of plotting his next career move in peace, he’s constantly distracted by noise, chaos–and BJ Stevens, the attractive but prickly blonde architect who’s invaded the house with her motley crew. As for BJ, her client’s son might be handsome, but after a disastrous romance, dating isn’t high on her agenda. Yet when they join forces for to help Hope Harbor seniors, might they also find healing, hope, and a new beginning themselves?
Come home to Hope Harbor–where hearts heal . . . and love blooms
Read an excerpt from “Sea Rose Lane” HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
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by admin | Jun 19, 2016 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
I have read numerous books by Melody Carlson in several genres. “All Summer Long” is not the best one I’ve read but it would definitely make a good take-along to the beach or summer vacation. While it does not contain a deep spiritual message as many of her novels do, it was fun and easy to read which is exactly what some of us need once in awhile.
The story itself features Tia, who has moved to San Francisco to work with her aunt to refurbish a luxury yacht into a restaurant. Upon her arrival, she is picked up at the airport by none other than the guy she crushed on during sailing camp years before and has dreamed about since their one shared kiss. Her hopes for romance are dashed when she learns that he is already engaged to a gorgeous gal who is difficult not to like. So we all know where this novel is headed don’t we? Well, the fun is all in finding out what happens.
“All Summer Long” is immensely readable even if I did get frustrated with both Tia and Leo often. I had to remind myself that these characters were young and young people do not always think straight when it comes to romance. The story is peppered with both humor and angst as well as delightful descriptions of the San Francisco area. I did like the fact that the story was resolved well without the fiance being portrayed as some evil woman. The book is a fun and clean romance that parents would not mind sharing with their teens.
A copy of this book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
She’s ready to take on a new challenge. What she doesn’t expect is an old flame.
Tia D’Amico is thrilled to move to San Francisco to help her aunt transform an old luxury yacht into an upscale floating restaurant. What’s not to love? Sunset dinner cruises, posh wedding receptions–the possibilities are endless and far more appetizing than staying in a monotonous job in her Podunk hometown. Besides, some of her best memories are tied to San Francisco–especially the memory of Leo Parker, her crush from a long-ago sailing camp.
When Leo Parker himself turns out to be the yacht’s captain, Tia is floating on air. But will it all come crashing down around her when she discovers his heart belongs to someone else?
Get ready for a romantic summer in San Francisco, where the future glistens brighter than the Bay at sunset.
Read an excerpt from All Summer Long HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books with sales of more than five million. She is the author of several Christmas books from Revell, including the bestselling The Christmas Bus, The Christmas Dog, and Christmas at Harrington’s, which is being considered for a TV movie. She is also the author of many teen books, including Just Another Girl, Anything but Normal, Double Take, the Life at Kingston High series, and the Diary of a Teenage Girl series. She is the winner of 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. Melody and her husband live in Oregon.
For more information about Melody visit her website at www.melodycarlson.com.
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by admin | Jun 19, 2016 | Books, Contemporary Fiction
MY REVIEW:
“Fading Starlight” was not what I expected but that is not a bad thing. It is actually a beautifully written novel that reveals some of the ways our choices can affect others and how it always pays to do the right thing – even if there are no discernible immediate results.
After a televised wardrobe malfunction tanked her promising fashion career, Lauren found herself without a job or much hope for one. Taking a low-paying job that included housing in a small town, Lauren hoped for a chance to regroup out of the spotlight. She is soon contacted by a reporter who claims to have proof that Lauren was not at fault for the wardrobe accident but her offer comes with strings attached. Tempted to cooperate with the reporter, especially after a couple of unpleasant encounters with her nearby neighbor, Lauren gradually realizes that the reporter is using her and decides to stand by her values.
I really enjoyed “Fading Starlight” with its focus on fashion design and old Hollywood. I had to admire Lauren’s determination to keep her integrity no matter the cost. Although at times that cost seemed to be too high, doing what was good and true paid off in the end. I love how God tends to reward those who attempt to follow His standards. I also liked the fact that this was not a romance novel although there was just a hint of it toward the end.
All-in-all, “Fading Starlight” was an excellent read that held my interest all the way through. Strong characters and an equally strong plot were realistic and compelling. I highly recommend this novel.
A copy of this book was provided for review by
Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
When Her Big Shot Blows Up on Her,
How Far Will One Woman Go to Regain Her Dream?
Lauren Summers is in hiding. Her fashion house internship was supposed to launch her career, but a red carpet accident has left her blackballed. The only job she can find comes with little pay, but at least it offers a free place to live–a rundown cottage in the shadow of a cliff-side mansion. Planning to live on savings until she figures out what’s next, she’s unprepared to be contacted by a reporter.
Kendall Joiner is researching Charlotte Montgomery, a former Hollywood ingénue who lives a reclusive life in the cliff-side mansion. Rumors have swirled for decades about Charlotte, and now Kendall wants to find the real story. In return, she may just have the key to getting Lauren back into the fashion world. Desperate to get her life back on track, Lauren’s not sure she can turn down the offer–but as she and Miss Montgomery get to know more about each other, Lauren realizes nothing is quite as it seems.
Read an excerpt from Fading Starlight HERE.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Photo courtesy of Doug Ellis Photography
Kathryn Cushman is a graduate of Samford University with a degree in pharmacy. She is the acclaimed author of over a half-dozen novels, including Leaving Yesterday and A Promise to Remember, which were both finalists for the Carol Award in Women’s Fiction. Kathryn and her family make their home in Santa Barbara, California.
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by admin | Jun 17, 2016 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
In the third and final book of Varina Denman’s Mended Hearts series, readers become more acquainted with Lynda Turner, a character from the previous two books who was not always shown in a positive light. As I got to know her better in “Jilted” I felt that I understood her struggles and could both empathize with her and applaud her strength in view of the difficulties she had faced all her life. I also got to know Clyde a bit better and learned to like him too.
“Jilted” is one of those books that grabs you and won’t let go. There was a lot going on as this series worked its way toward a conclusion with unanswered questions solved and characters who were finally able to put the past behind them and move on with their lives. A mysterious discovery at the lake had more significance than anyone could have imagined and would impact Lynda’s life considerably. Then there is the character who is a fine example of the effect buried guilt can have on a person.
A well-written story with well-rounded characters, “Jilted” is a story of abandonment, betrayal, love, hope, loyalty, and redemption. I enjoyed the entire series and look forward to whatever this author will offer her readers next.
A copy of this book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Can all things really work together for good, and can the joy of living be found once again? Don’t miss one woman’s story in book three, Jilted, of Varina Denman’s Mended Hearts series.
Lynda Turner has struggled with depression since her husband abandoned her and their young daughter fifteen years ago. Yet unexpected hope awakens when a local ex-convict shows interest. As long-hidden secrets resurface, Lynda must fight for her emotional stability and for a life where the shadow of shame is replaced by the light of love.
Jilted tells of a woman who has lost the joy of living, a man determined to draw her back toward happiness, and a town that must—once and for all—leave the past where it belongs. It is a gentle reminder that all things can work together for good.
Learn more and purchase a copy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Varina Denman is author of the Mended Hearts series and a native Texan. She spent her high school years in a rural town and now writes stories about the struggles women face in similar small town settings. She and her husband live near Fort Worth, where they enjoy spending time with their five mostly grown children.
Find out more about Varina at https://varinadenman.com.
Celebrate the release of Varina’s Jilted by entering to win a $50 gift card.
One grand prize winner will receive:
- A copy of Jilted to kick off a summer of reading
- A $50 Kohl’s gift card to make your summertime sweet
The giveaway ends on July 1st. The winner will be announced July 5th on Varina’s website.
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by admin | Jun 14, 2016 | Amish, Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“The Amish Firefighter” might be one of the best Amish books I’ve read in quite awhile. Oops, I just looked back at my review for “The Postcard” and I began exactly the same way. Looks Like I definitely need to add Laura Hilton to my must read list.
I particularly liked how down-to-earth the characters were. They struggled with life and faith just like the rest of us. And what fun to see the bad boy from “The Postcard” become the Hero of “The Amish Firefighter”. Such a turnaround in his character that others recognized and approved. I also liked that the author did not hold back on the strong attraction felt by Abigail and Sam. Their romantic encounters were spicier than what is usually found in Amish fiction but as far as I’m concerned did not cross into objectionable territory.
The story itself was excellent with a strong plot filled with mystery, danger, suspense, and romance. Both Sam and Abigail had hurdles to overcome in their lives and for some reason God placed them together to help each other find the truth. This is such a beautiful story of repentance, God’s forgiveness, and restoration. I am so looking forward to the next book in this series.
A copy of this book was provided for review by Celebrate Lit and The Book Club Network.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A Beautiful Young Woman Banished from Home
Abigail Stutzman thought it was bad enough being dropped at the nearest bus station and sent to live several states away with some relatives she’d never even heard of, much less met. But now, just a week after her arrival in Jamesport, Missouri, she finds herself at the scene of a barn fire. An intentional barn fire. And all fingers are pointed at her. She’s desperate to prove her innocence and protect her reputation, but nobody’s making that easy to do. And God certainly doesn’t seem willing to help.
A Brave Firefighter with an Agenda of His Own
Sam Miller is in the process of turning over a new leaf. Determined to atone for the follies of his past, he is a volunteer firefighter, an EMT, and a doctor-in-training. With suspicious barn fires escalating, and the Miller family being among the victims, no one is more determined to see the perpetrators brought to justice than Sam.
A Kindled Flame Neither One Could Have Anticipated
When their paths first cross at the site of a barn burning, the emotional intensity rivals the warmth of the flames. Soon, they must decide whether this fire is one they should feed or fight. And they’ll discover that the truth can prove more dangerous than a blazing inferno.
Purchase your copy of The Amish Firefighter here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Amish fiction lovers responded positively and immediately to Laura V. Hilton’s debut novel, Patchwork Dreams, when she burst on the scene in 2009 with her unique series, The Amish of Seymour, set in the tiny town of Seymour, in Webster County, Missouri. Fans of the genre immediately recognized Hilton’s insider knowledge, not only of the Webster County community, but Amish culture in general. Her natural speech and writing patterns, she says, are uniquely “Amish,” acquired from her Amish maternal grandparents. The Amish of Seymour, includes Patchwork Dreams, A Harvest of Hearts, and Promised to Another. Her second series, The Amish of Webster County, is comprised of Healing Love, Surrendered Love, and Awakened Love. A stand-alone title, A White Christmas in Webster County, was released in September 2014. The Birdhouse concluded Laura’s 2015 series, The Amish of Jamesport, includes The Snow Globe, The Postcard and The Birdhouse. Laura is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and a professional book reviewer. Laura and her husband, Steve, have five children, whom Laura homeschools. The family makes their home in Arkansas.
For more about Laura, her latest book, the books she’s written and those she’s reviewed:
Laura Hilton’s Website: www.lauravhilton.blogspot.com.
Guest Post from Laura V. Hilton
Unlike some authors, I am not a planner. I have a very vague idea of the story, of the series, and as soon as the characters step forward and introduce themselves I dive in and start writing. When I first began writing this series – New Beginnings in Jamesport – I knew Sammy Miller was going to be the hero. Readers started asking for Sammy’s story as soon as they read The Postcard where Sammy was the villain. Ouch. I’d never considered writing a story about a former villain. But just as David in The Postcard was reader requested, Sammy would be.
Sammy is a very strong character and I knew he had to have a strong female lead character, one that wasn’t afraid to stand up to him and keep him under control. He is a leader, an EMT studying to be a paramedic, and a volunteer firefighter. The female lead, Abigail, is thrown into Jamesport without warning. Her step-father takes her to the bus station and sends her away and she doesn’t even know why! When she is met at the bus station by an aunt and uncle she didn’t even know existed, she is thrown into the middle of several mysteries, including barn fires set by arsonists. And she is the main suspect.
The whole New Beginnings in Jamesport series, while considered a continuation of The Amish of Jamesport series due to Sammy being the hero, is set around Amish starting over in Jamesport. The second book The Amish Wanderer is about a former resident of Jamesport hitchhiking across the country to get to his Mennonite uncle’s house in Pennsylvania. Silas is desperate to escape from his dysfunctional family for several reasons. But he cannot stay in Jamesport because someone is out to kill him. When he stumbles upon another mystery within hours of his arrival, what choice does he have but to stick around for awhile?
God gave me the verses for all three books in the Amish of Jamesport series The Amish Firefighter, The Amish Wanderer and the yet untitled third book (My books all stand alone) before I started writing them, which is unusual. He usually reveals these things slowly to me, as I need to know. The verse for The Amish Firefighter is Isaiah 43:2-4 and the verse for The Amish Wanderer is Romans 8:38-39. The third book’s verse is 2 Corinthians 4:8. It is tentatively titled The Amish Accountant, but most people think accountants are boring, and his real profession is a clockmaker. But The Amish Clockmaker has already been taken by another author. So we shall see what the wonderful Whitaker House team will come up with. It is about another young Amish woman, Lydia, who needs a “safe haven.” So her parents send her to live with her Mennonite aunt and uncle in Jamesport. It doesn’t exactly work out as planned, as the aunt and uncle leave for a foreign mission trip immediately, leaving Lydia acting manager of a gift shop and living in an all electric apartment. Before her aunt leaves, she tells Lydia’s secrets to her best friend. But did she tell all of them or some of them? And the best friend’s son, Caleb (the clockmaker) is acting as accountant for the gift shop. And what about Caleb’s carefully kept secret? When Lydia’s past catches up with her, will it destroy all she’d begun to imagine as she dreamed of starting over in Jamesport?
Next after that is The Christmas Challenge which is also set in Jamesport.
I don’t have official release dates for The Amish Wanderer or the other books yet. But as soon as I know, I’ll share.
Coming next? Who knows? I have two ideas warring for attention—but which one gets told first, I don’t know! I lean toward one, then the other. They both want to be told.
And now, I must get back to work. Thank you for visiting today and thank you so much for supporting my books. I do hope you’ll enjoy The Amish Firefighter!
Happy Reading!
Because of Him,
~ Laura ~
BLOG STOPS:
June 9: Quiet Quilter
June 10: Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations
June 10: Jeanette’s Thoughts
June 11: Book Bites, Bee Stings, and Butterfly Kisses
June 11: Blogging With Carol
June 12: Cassandra M’s Place
June 12: Splashes of Joy
June 13: Babs Book Bistro
June 13: bigreadersite
June 14: Daysong Reflections
June 14: Rockin’ My Mom Jeans
June 15: Singing Librarian Books
June 15: Blossoms and Blessings
June 16: Reading Is My SuperPower
June 16: The Power of Words
June 17: Two Girls and a Book
June 17: A Greater Yes
June 18: Texas Book -aholic
June 18: Through The Open Window
June 19: For the Love of Books
June 19: Petra’s Hope
June 20: Running Through The Storms
June 20: Simple Harvest Reads
June 21: A Holland Reads
June 21: Chas Ray’s Book Nerd Corner
June 22: Pause for Tales
June 22: KarensKrayons
June 23: D’S QUILTS & BOOKS
GIVEAWAY:
To celebrate her tour, Laura is giving away a basket that includes a Kindle Fire and a complete set of her books! Enter here: https://promosimple.com/ps/9bed
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Irene Hannon is the bestselling author of more than fifty novels, including One Perfect Spring, Hope Harbor, and Sea Rose Lane, as well as the Private Justice and Men of Valor suspense series. Her books have been honored with three coveted RITA Awards from Romance Writers of America, two Carol Awards, two Reviewers’ Choice Awards from RT Book Reviews magazine, a Retailers’ Choice Award, three HOLT Medallions, two Booksellers’ Best Awards, and a National Readers’ Choice Award. She is also a two-time Christy Award finalist. Learn more at 
