by admin | Apr 3, 2014 | Books
MY REVIEW:
At a time when many people who claim to be believers do not think that God still speaks to His people, Davis Bunn has written a novel that emphasizes hearing from God. Each of his primary characters (with the exception of one) follows what seems to be a clear directive from the Lord and then for one reason or another end up in the same place at the same time. Is it coincidence or was it orchestrated by the divine hand of God? Why has this diverse group of people been drawn together and what are God’s plans for them? These questions and more are answered as they decide to overcome their own fears and prejudices and choose obedience.
“The Turning” is a story about how God uses improbable people to overcome evil – how He uses men and women despite their weakness as long as they will step out in faith. It is a story that is at times dramatic and suspenseful but at all times embraces hope. Each of the characters is realistically flawed. One man’s greed and quest for power has inspired him to stop at nothing to achieve his goals. Despite their fears, the others are willing to lay down their lives to prevent the advancement of evil. The story is a page-turner that I didn’t want to put down.
Over the past several years I have read and enjoyed most of the books that Davis Bunn has written and have two or three on my shelf waiting for me to have the time between book reviews to indulge myself in one I am not required to review. In some ways “The Turning” is a bit different from the author’s previous novels yet in other aspects it is similar. I have always felt that Davis Bunn has a finger on the pulse of the world and find that his books reflect the current state of the planet and sometimes may even be prophetic. I can also depend on a story that points the reader to God.
“The Turning” raises some excellent questions for all believers. It touched me on a personal level and challenged me to learn to not only listen for God but to heed what He has to say. I fully intend to begin a serious study of the devotional study found on http://theturningbook.com/.
I received a complimentary copy of The Turning from River North Fiction
in exchange for my honest review.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
The message was unexpected but instantly recognizable.
A voice resonated from a distance and somehow from within. Against all earthly logic, it carried a divine command. And five very different people knew they were summoned to obey.
Their actions were demanding, but not particularly grand. Only later would they see a pattern emerge – one that links their tasks together and comes to challenge the cultural direction of the nation. They realize that one small personal response unveiled a new realm of moral responsibility. And this affirmation of everyday hope captures the attention of millions.
But power and money are at stake. Malicious elements soon align themselves to counter the trend. To succeed they must also undermine its source. Can we really believe that God speaks to people today? Surely this must be dismissed as superstition or delusion. These well-intentioned but misguided individuals should not be allowed to cast our society back into the Dark Ages.
The public debate and media frenzy place an unprecedented spotlight on knowing and doing God’s will. The five encounter threats, but try to remain steadfast in their faith. Had God indeed imparted wisdom on selected individuals? Is this sweep of events part of his divine purpose?
The movement may herald a profound renewal – one that some are calling The Turning…
Read chapters 1-3 of “The Turning” by Davis Bunn for free: http://statictab.com/fvrrsxz (Like his Facebook page to start reading.)
ISBN (Trade Paperback): 978-0802411686
304 pages
April 1, 2014 from River North, a division of Moody Publishers
http://theturningbook.com/
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Davis Bunn is a four-time Christy Award-winning, best-selling author now serving as writer-in-residence at Regent’s Park College, Oxford University in the United Kingdom.
Defined by readers and reviewers as a “wise teacher,” “gentleman adventurer,” “consummate writer,” and “Renaissance man,” his work in business took him to over 40 countries around the world, and his books have sold more than seven million copies in sixteen languages.
Visit Davis at davisbunn.com or theturningbook.com/
Facebook: facebook.com/davisbunnauthor
Twitter: @davisbunn
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/davisbunn/
by admin | Apr 2, 2014 | Anthology, Books
MY REVIEW:
I would say that Revell is off to a good start with their very first novella collection. I have previously enjoyed full length novels by all of the included authors and was not disappointed by their shorter length contributions to the “Sincerely Yours” collection. These collections of novellas are wonderful for readers who are looking for a good read but do not have time to spare for the longer format.
Each novella in the “Sincerely Yours” collection is built around a life-changing letter. Each one is unique to its story and affect the outcome in different ways. The novellas have a little bit of everything including adventure, suspense, conflict, drama, deception, humor, and of course romance. Each novella has a different historical setting and the heroes and heroines come from different walks of life. Although the plots are diverse, each one contains a faith-filled message and the primary characters learn to trust the Lord with their circumstances.
“Sincerely Yours” is a winner and hopefully Revell will publish similar collections in the future.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Four unexpected letters. Four intrepid women. Four lives changed forever.
Spanning a century and a continent, these romantic novellas will lead you on a journey through the landscape of love. Four young women find their lives altered after each receives a letter that sets her on a new path. From a Hudson River steamboat to a lush drawing room, from a carousel carver’s workshop to a remote hospital, you’ll be swept into the lives of women who are making their way in the world and finding love where they least expect it.
Moonlight Promise by Laurie Alice Eakes
Camilla Renfrew is a highborn English lady fleeing false accusations when she runs smack into love on a steamboat bound for the new Erie Canal. But can this unexpected attraction survive the treacherous journey?
Lessons in Love by Ann Shorey
Marigold Montgomery Bentley writes marriage advice for Kipler’s Home Weekly even though she is single. Everyone assumes from the initials that “M. M.” is a man. When the editor asks to meet Mr. Bentley, can Merrie come up with a ruse to keep her writing job?
One Little Word by Amanda Cabot
Lorraine Caldwell will lose her family fortune to a reckless cousin if she doesn’t marry quickly. When she learns her long-lost brother is alive, she hopes she’s found the answer to her problems. What she finds instead is a mysterious carousel carver who turns her life upside down.
A Saving Grace by Jane Kirkpatrick
Grace Hathaway must rescue a dear friend from a remote and notorious clinic that promises healing but delivers only heartache. In a place laced with deceit, where lives hang in the balance, whom can she trust to help her?
CLICK HERE to read excerpts from each of the novellas included in Sincerely Yours.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
Jane Kirkpatrick
Jane Kirkpatrick is the New York Times and CBA bestselling author of more than twenty-five books, including A Sweetness to the Soul, which won the coveted Wrangler Award from the Western Heritage Center. Her works have been finalists for the Christy Award, Spur Award, Oregon Book Award, and Reader’s Choice awards, and have won the WILLA Literary Award and Carol Award for Historical Fiction. Many of her titles have been Book of the Month and Literary Guild selections. You can also read her work in more than fifty publications, including Decision, Private Pilot, and Daily Guideposts. Jane lives in Central Oregon with her husband, Jerry. Learn more at www.jkbooks.com. |
 |
| Amanda Cabot Amanda Cabot is the bestselling author of the Texas Dreams series, Christmas Roses, Summer of Promise, and Waiting for Spring. Her books have been finalists for the ACFW Carol Awards and the Booksellers Best. She lives in Wyoming. Find out more at www.amandacabot.com. |
 |
| Laurie Alice EakesLaurie Alice Eakes is the author of Lady in the Mist, Heart’s Safe Passage, A Necessary Deception, A Flight of Fancy, and several other novels. She won a National Readers Choice Award for Best Regency in 2007 for Family Guardian. Laurie Alice writes full-time from her home in Texas, where she lives with her husband and sundry dogs and cats. |
 |
| Ann ShoreyAnn Shorey is the author of the At Home in Beldon Grove series, Where Wildflowers Bloom, and When the Heart Heals. She has also published selections in the Cup of Comfort series and in Chicken Soup for the Grandma’s Soul. Ann and her husband make their home in southwestern Oregon. Learn more at www.annshorey.com. |
 |
|
|
CLICK HERE to visit Jane Kirkpatrick’s blog and find out how to enter to win a copy of Sincerely Yours.
by admin | Apr 2, 2014 | Books, Historical, Romance
MY REVIEW:
“Through the Deep Waters” is an emotionally charged book about a young man and woman who have been rejected by their peers most of their lives. Dinah was looked down upon because of where she lived as well as her mother’s profession. A sacrificial decision led to a traumatic encounter that left her unable to sleep because of horrific nightmares and shame. She believes that becoming a “Harvey Girl” will be what it takes to gain the respect of others. Amos is a chicken farmer with a severe disability caused by an accident when he was a child. Determined to make a success of his farm, Amos is certain he can prove his worth to his father and maybe even himself.
Poignant and moving, “Through the Deep Waters” is not only a story about shame and rejection but about the redemptive power of the Lord to bring change and a second chance to lives when all hope seems lost. Sawyer’s characters are so very well defined that I cared what would happen to them. Physically, Amos was a less than perfect hero but his strong faith, integrity, and inner strength overcame his disabilities and gained my respect and admiration. Dinah had my sympathy throughout the story and I rejoiced with her when her life changed for the better. A pivotal scene between Dinah and her room mate was absolutely perfect!
As you can probably tell, I thoroughly enjoyed “Through the Deep Waters”. I could go on but fear I would reveal too much. Do yourself a favor and pick up or order your own copy.
This book was provided for review by the
WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group Blogging For Books program.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
A past filled with shame can be washed away with a love that conquers all
Born to an unloving prostitute in a popular Chicago brothel, timid seventeen-year-old Dinah Hubley was raised amidst the secrets held in every dark, grimy room of her home. Anxious to escape, Dinah pursues her dream of becoming a Harvey Girl, waiting tables along the railroad in an upscale hotel. But when she finds out she isn’t old enough, her only option is to accept a job as a chambermaid at the Clifton Hotel in Florence, Kansas. Eager to put everything behind her, Dinah feels more worthless than ever, based on a single horrible decision she made to survive.
The Clifton offers a life Dinah has never known, but blinded to the love around her, Dinah remains buried in the shame of her past. When a handsome chicken farmer named Amos Ackerman starts to show interest, Dinah withdraws further, convinced no one could want a sullied woman like her. Despite his self-consciousness about his handicapped leg and her strange behavior, Amos resolves to show Dinah Christ’s love. But can she ever accept a gift she so desperately needs?
Click here to download chapter one of Through the Deep Waters.
Praise for Through the Deep Waters
“Kim Vogel Sawyer paints a picture of redemption and forgiveness in not one but many lives in Through the Deep Waters. Just as weary travelers found comfort in Mr. Harvey’s hotels, readers will find comfort in this wrenching tale of one woman’s shameful past and one man’s struggle to look beyond her indiscretions and accept the woman she has become—a woman redeemed by grace. Ms. Sawyer’s historically accurate novels tug the strings of the heart while giving hope to those who feel unworthy.”
—Pam Hillman, author of Claiming Mariah
“Kim Vogel Sawyer’s careful attention to detail and heartfelt writing make her one of the industry’s favorites.”
—Lori Copeland, author of The Healer’s Touch
“Kim Vogel Sawyer has crafted an emotion-packed novel about two damaged souls whose faith and courage ultimately come shining through. Readers will root for Dinah and Amos to overcome the wounds of their troubled pasts in order to find love and hope for the future. With its vividly rendered settings and well-rounded characters, this lovely story is sure to please Ms. Sawyer’s many fans.”
—Dorothy Love, author of Carolina Gold
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Kim Vogel Sawyer is a best-selling author highly acclaimed for her gentle stories of hope. More than one million copies of her books are in print and have garnered awards including the ACFW Carol Award, the Inspirational Readers Choice Award, and the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence. Kim lives in Kansas, where she and her retired military husband, Don, run a bed-and-breakfast inn with the help of their four feline companions. She enjoys spending time with her three daughters and nine grandchildren.
by admin | Mar 31, 2014 | Books, Contemporary Fiction, Romance
MY REVIEW:
Because of its whimsical title and gorgeous cover art, the reader would probably expect “Dancing With Fireflies” to be just one more sweet and syrupy romance novel. Actually the story does include a sweet romance but there is much more substance to this book than its cover might suggest.
Hunter’s characters are natural and filled with life. Jade is a troubled young woman who finds herself in a difficult situation. Daniel is a special man who adores Jade but must choose between his love for her and the big plans his parents have already made for his future. Besides romance, the plot has its share of conflict, misunderstanding, angst, and near tragedy. At times I did not agree with Jade’s actions but in view of her experiences, I could understand her confusion. Daniel was a rock through the entire story and I was happy with the choices he made about his career.
“Dancing With Fireflies” covers some difficult subject matter that might be suitable for more mature readers. The specific situation was handled tactfully and with care; however parents of teens may want to read the book in order to decide if it is appropriate for their child. This novel could be an opening for discussion with daughters about the very real dangers that they could encounter while dating or even at a party.
I always enjoy novels by Denise Hunter and “Dancing With Fireflies” was no exception. I recommend it without reservation.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Jade returns home to Chapel Springs after years of protecting her fragile heart. Then along comes Daniel, making her long to dance again.
Creative and complicated, Jade McKinley felt like a weed in a rose garden growing up in Chapel Springs. When she left, she thought she’d never look back. But now, pregnant, alone, and broke, she has no other choice but to return.
The mayor of Chapel Springs, Daniel Dawson, has been an honorary member of the McKinley family for years. While his own home life was almost non-existent, Daniel fit right into the boisterous McKinley family. He’s loved Jade for years, but she always saw him as a big brother. Now that she’s back, his feelings are stronger than ever.
As Jade attempts to settle in, nothing feels right. God seems far away, she’s hiding secrets from her family, and she’s strangely attracted to the man who’s always called her “squirt.” Finding her way home may prove more difficult than she imagined.
Learn more and purchase a copy at Denise’s website.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Denise Hunter is an internationally published best-selling author. Her books have won The Holt Medallion Award, The Reader’s Choice Award, The Foreword Book of the Year Award, and was a RITA finalist. In 1996, inspired by the death of her grandfather, Denise began her first book, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she’s been writing ever since. Her husband says he inspires all of her romantic stories, but Denise insists a good imagination helps, too. When Denise isn’t writing, she’s busy raising three heroes-in-the-making with her husband.
Find out more about Denise at http://www.denisehunterbooks.com/.
by admin | Mar 30, 2014 | 1960's, Books, Historical
MY REVIEW:
“Summer of Joy” was quite the nostalgic read for me because during the summer of 1964 I was very close to the same age as the book’s main character Jocie and also grew up in a rural/small town atmosphere. It was so easy for me to identify with Jocie’s life although thankfully, my own was fairly boring by comparison. Just when I thought Jocie and her family would get back on an even keel after all the events in the previous books in the Hollyhill Series, it seemed like more excitement and even some danger were in store for the Brooke family and friends.
I thoroughly enjoyed visiting Hollyhill once again and spending time with many of the familiar faces from the earlier books. From smart and spunky Jocie, to her wise and caring father, to wacky but beloved Wes, I love all Gabhart’s wonderful characters. This story has a little something for everyone – a bit of romance, plenty of humor, some danger and suspense, and woven through it all, a wealth of faith and forgiveness.
This book was provided for review by
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
As summer draws to a close Jocie’s world seems serene–but is it just the calm before a storm?
Unbeknownst to Jocie Brooke and her family, two people are making their way to the small town of Hollyhill, Kentucky. One everyone thought was gone for good and the other no one’s ever heard of. Still, one thing is sure–they promise trouble. The past is coming to call, threatening to destroy strong relationships that everyone has simply taken for granted.
The summer of 1964 may be winding down, but the controversy in this little community where nothing ever seems to change is just heating up.
Bestselling author Ann Gabhart invites you to Hollyhill for a story both exciting and enduring that will stick with you long after you turn the last page.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Ann H. Gabhart is the bestselling author of several novels, including Angel Sister, Small Town Girl, Scent of Lilacs, and Orchard of Hope. She lives with her husband a mile from where she was born in rural Kentucky. Find out more at www.annhgabhart.com.
by admin | Mar 30, 2014 | Books, Quilts, Romance
MY REVIEW:
With Native American ancestry in both my family and my husband’s family, I am always interested in reading about them. There have also been quite a few quilters in our families and I have quilted some myself so the entire Quilts of Love series has been special. A Sky Without Stars combines the two and was both entertaining and informative.
Interestingly enough, the novel took place the year I was born. I was somewhat surprised at the amount of prejudice toward the Native Americans that was still prevalent during that era and also by the contempt so many of them held toward the “white God”. A Sky Without Stars opened my eyes to how these people were treated – possibly with good intentions to help improve their lives but with total disregard to their history and culture. No wonder they resisted the gospel!
I enjoyed A Sky Without Stars very much. The story was well-written and easy to read with strong characters that I could care about. Situations and emotions throughout the book were realistic and believable. I liked how everything was resolved at the end and would not mind reading more about these characters. I actually hated to see the story end.
This book was provided for review by LitFuse Publicity.
About Quilts of Love: Quilts tell stories of love and loss, hope and faith, tradition and new beginnings. The Quilts of Love series focuses on the women who quilted all of these things into their family histories. A new book releases each month and features contemporary and historical romances as well as women’s fiction and the occasional light mystery. You will be drawn into the endearing characters of this series and be touched by their stories.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
In 1951, Frankie Chasing Bear is a Lakota caught between cultures. She wants to raise her son Harold to revere his Lakota heritage, but she knows he will need to become as a white man to succeed. After his father’s killed in a barroom brawl, Harold and Frankie move to Arizona, where she begins a Lakota Star pattern quilt for Harold with tribal wisdom sung, sewn and prayed into it.
She distrusts Christians, as her own parents were forced to convert at an Indian School, until she meets BIA agent Nick Vandergriff, a half-Lakota who’s also caught between cultures. Nick must convince Frankie that white men and Christians aren’t all bad as he tries to win her heart in order to put the stars back into her sky.
Purchase a copy and learn more at the Quilts of Love website.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Linda S. Clare is an award-winning coauthor of three books, including “Lost Boys and the Moms Who Love Them” (with Melody Carlson and Heather Kopp), “Revealed: Spiritual Reality in a Makeover World,” and “Making Peace with a Dangerous God” (with Kristen Johnson Ingram). She is also the author of “The Fence My Father Built.” She has taught college-level creative writing classes for seven years, and edits and mentors writers. She also is a frequent writing conference presenter and church retreat leader. She and her husband of thirty-one years have four grown children, including a set of twins. They live in Eugene, Oregon, with their five wayward cats: Oliver, Xena the Warrior Kitty, Paladine, Melchior, and Mamma Mia!
Learn more about Linda at: http://www.lindasclare.com
