Friday, December 30, 2016

Titus Returns (A Wells Landing Romance) by Amy Lillard


Book Description:

In Wells Landing, Oklahoma’s warm and welcoming Amish community, there’s always hope for a new beginning—and a second chance…

Five tumultuous years have changed Titus Lambert in every way. Back then, Titus was preparing to marry his longtime sweetheart, Mandy Yoder. Then came the unthinkable—a tragic car wreck that left Titus serving time for vehicular manslaughter.

Titus isn’t sure he belongs in this peaceful place anymore, but he must make amends. When he goes to visit the Kings, whose son, Alvin, died that terrible night, he’s shocked to see that their farm has fallen into disrepair. Alvin’s sister, Abbie, resents Titus’s reappearance, but there’s no denying she needs his help. Honest toil—and their evolving friendship—slowly help his soul to heal. But with his feelings for Mandy still strong, Titus must choose between two very different futures, and find the strength and faith to claim the surprising gift of a fresh start.
                                              http://amzn.to/2hxEQ9r



Author Biography:

I'm a wife, mother, and bona fide Southern belle. Published author, expert corn bread maker, and Squirrel Princess.

I live in Tulsa, though I was born in Mississippi. I moved to the Sooner State when I was seventeen and met my soul mate and best friend not long after. I've retained a little of my Mississippi accent though most people think I'm from Texas. (?) Rob and I have been married for over twenty years and have a son-a mom proclaimed prodigy, of course!

I love homemade tacos, nail polish, and romance novels-not necessarily in that order. I'm a big fan of country music, a staunch proponent of saving the Oxford comma, and I'm shamefully obsessed with all things Harry Potter.

I believe that God is love. I guess that's why I love to write inspirational romances. The two go hand-in-hand for me.

I have always been intrigued with the Amish culture, their gentle ways and slower-paced lifestyle. (And I love, love, love the fact that they stay married for their lifetime.) But until recently I never thought to blend this interest with my penchant for romance. Okay, okay, I'm a bit old-fashioned and even enjoy the gender roles that are present in this culture. I love to cook and take care of my family. Yes, that's me June Cleaver with a laptop.

I dislike people trying to convince me to read the Twlight series (I'll get to it or I won't, either way I'm good with it), gratuitous violence, and strawberry ice cream. (I know I'm alone on this last one, and again, I'm good with it.)

Favorite movies-(besides HP) French Kiss, Maid of Honor, A Lot Like Love, Just Married, and Sweet Home Alabama. Oh, and Miss Congeniality, Sabrina (both versions) and a 1940′s movie called Dear Ruth. If you haven't seen it, you should! A-dorable. Anything with Doris Day and most all of Marilyn's and Audrey's.

My Thoughts:

A Story of Romance…Forgiveness…

Titus Lambert has just spent the last five years in prison, which is an unusual situation for a young man of his background.  However, an unfortunate incident had landed him there.  While in prison, Titus suffered through and experienced many things that were outside of his background of experience, and they had a major impact on him.  Thus, upon his release, Titus is not sure exactly what he is going to do.  He is constantly warring with himself, reliving the incident that changed his life, and pretty much beating himself up.  He feels the punishment was his to take, and now, he’s not quite sure what his future will hold.  One thing he does know is that he needs to do something to make amends with the Kings, family of his friend Alvin, who lost his life on that fateful day.  

Shortly after his return to the community, Titus finds himself at the King farm. He notices how much work the farm needs and proceeds to help the family rebuild the farm.  The Kings are appreciative of Titus’ help, well, all except for Abbie.  

Abbie King can’t believe Titus has the nerve to come to her family’s home.  He is, after all, the reason for their current situation.  How can she possibly forget that and forgive him?  As time goes on, and as Titus continues to help her family, Abbie finds herself not only forgiving Titus, but realizing he has captivated a very special place in her heart.  At the same time, Titus makes a discovery of his own in that Abbie has made a way into his heart.  

As Titus and Abbie’s relationship takes a turn, they each find themselves facing a variety of situations, including alcoholism, PTSD, depression, and much more.  All of this combined makes Titus Returns a story of romance, a story  of forgiveness, a story of overcoming obstacles, and a story of new beginnings and second chances.  

Titus Returns is a great addition to Amy Lillard’s Well’s Landing Romance series.  The stories are all based in Oklahoma, which is a rare setting for Amish romances.  The series gives a glimpse into what life is like in that community which includes their use of tractors.  Although Titus Returns is part of this series, there are no cliff hangers, and it can be read as a stand alone.  However, I highly recommend reading the entire Wells Landing series as well as the rest of Amy Lillard’s books.  You won’t be disappointed. 

***** I received a copy of this book for review with no requirement of a positive review or compensation. This review reflects my honest opinions and viewpoints.

Tuesday, November 15, 2016

Amish Wanderer by Laura V. Hilton

                                               

Book Details: 

Title:  The Amish Wanderer 

Series: (The Amish of Webster County Book 3)

Author: Laura V. Hilton

Publisher:  Whitaker House

Pages:  240

Release Date:   February 14, 2017

Book Description:

Desperate for a Ticket Out
Bethany Weiss is ready to leave town. Tongues haven't stopped clacking in Jamesport, MO, since her daed, the bishop, was admitted to a mental hospital after hurting their small Amish community. But her sharpest wounds Bethany hides from prying eyes, quietly biding her time until she can take a chance at a new life away from Jamesport and away from God.

Searching for a Home
Silas Beiler was kicked out of his own family's home. Dogged by a rough childhood and a family who blames him for each new disaster, he begins hitchhiking across the country, sleeping in barns where he can, working for food when possible; headed for Pennsylvania, in the hope of some stability. 

A Memory of Lemonade
When Bethany spies a man asleep in the hayloft, she first fears the return of an unwelcome suitor. But when it is Silas who turns and speaks, the memories flood back: a happy summer six years ago full of lemonade, long walks, and budding courtship. Now, however, those months of bliss seem naive and idyllic. Will their old love overcome new pain? Or will hurt and rejection continue to haunt their path?

My Thoughts: It will stay with you long after you've read it

Bethany Weiss wants out.  Out of her house.  Out of town.  Away from the wagging tongues.  Away from the problems.  She just wants a fresh start.  Her family has been through so much, but that’s not all.  Bethany also carries the burden of her own share of personal “stuff” that she has to deal with. So, her solution to is to get out and get away, and that includes getting away from God.  

Silas Beiler got out and got away.  Away from his family.  Away from their issues.  And just like Bethany, Silas carries the burden of his own share of personal “stuff.”  So, Silas’ solution was also to get out and get away. However, Silas differs from Bethany in that although he’s trying to get away from many things, God isn’t one of them.   

Silas and Bethany’s story drew me in right from the first page.  Author Laura V. Hilton’s writing has a way of doing that to the point that once you start, you won’t want to put it down until the last word is read. The author is also able to make you feel all of the emotions the characters are feeling, which draws you into the story that much more.   Another element that will draw you in is the reality of the issues the characters dealt with.  Each issue is a delicate one, and one that many authors will not even attempt to tackle.  However, the author flawlessly tackled these sensitive issues with honesty, respect, and tact.  All of this together makes Amish Wanderer a beautiful story of love, faith, trust, and forgiveness, that will stay with you long after you are finished reading it. 

***** I received a copy of this book from the publisher for my honest review.  This review reflects my personal opinions, and I received no compensation for it. 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Author Biography: Laura V. Hilton

Award winning author, Laura Hilton, her husband, Steve, and their five children make their home in Arkansas. She is a pastor’s wife, a stay-at-home mom and home-schools. Laura is also a breast cancer survivor.

Her publishing credits include three books in the Amish of Seymour series from Whitaker House: Patchwork Dreams, A Harvest of Hearts (winner of the 2012 Clash of the Titles Award in two categories), and Promised to Another. The Amish of Webster County series, Healing Love (finalist for the 2013 Christian Retail Awards). Surrendered Love and Awakened Love followed by her first Christmas novel, A White Christmas in Webster County, as well as the Amish of Jamesport series, The Snow Globe, The Postcard, and The Birdhouse. Other credits include Swept Away from Abingdon Press’ Quilts of Love series. Laura is contracted for another three book Amish series set in the Jamesport area, with the first book, The Amish Firefighter, planned for April 2016.

She has indie published a Christmas novella, Christmas Mittens. 

Laura is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and a professional book reviewer.

Friday, August 12, 2016

Dodging Destiny by Derinda Babcock

Book Description:

Lexie Logan thought she could run from God…but like the Prophet Jonah, she soon faced a storm of epic proportions.

Lexie knows God has called her to the mission field of Guatemala as a missionary’s wife, but she has no intention of obeying. She has her own dreams: she wants to complete a Master’s degree program in music and to play violin for the Topeka Symphony Orchestra. 

As she waits to speak to an advisor, she pillows her head on her arms in the library of Kansas State University in June 2014, and wakes up in the back of a Conestoga wagon in June 1857, four years before the Civil War. Kansas is not yet a state, women do not have the vote, and slavery divides the nation. She is taken in by the Bells, who are homesteading in the newly opened territory. 

While she lives with this family, God teaches her many things about obedience, trust, faithfulness, and love, but the most important lesson she learns is that there is no place in time or space where she can go to run from God, and there is nothing that can separate her from His love. 

When given a second chance, will she obey though there is risk involved, or will she play it safe and settle for second-best?

My Thoughts:

First of all, let me begin by clarifying that I never, ever read science fiction, let alone fantasy.  Ever.  So, I had no idea what exactly I was getting into when I decided to read this book.  All I can say is that I’m glad I gave it a chance.

Lexie Logan is a Christian, but she struggles with her plan and her will vs. God’s plans and God’s will.  This is evident when her fiancé, Lance, tells her about his call to the mission field of Guatemala.  Lexie already has her plans all laid out, and going to the mission field as a missionary’s wife isn’t one of them.  Although she has some mixed feelings about saying no to being a missionary’s wife, Lexie continues on the path of her plans.  While she waits to see an advisor at KSU, she falls asleep in the library and wakes up in a Conestoga wagon in June 1857 with people she has never seen before in her life.  However, the family that finds her, the Bells, are on their way to a new homestead, and although they don’t understand why she’s dressed the way she is and why she’s so different from them, they take her in.  What follows is a journey for Lexie, as well as a journey for the Bells and the others that Lexie comes to know during her time in the past.  

I was completely sucked into the story from the get go.  Once Lexie went back in time, I couldn’t read fast enough to find out what was going to happen.  At first, and for quite some time, I found Lexie to be extremely annoying.  Her reaction to so much of what was normal at that time was over the top.  However, as God continued to allow her to go through certain things, and as He began to reveal things to her, she eventually came around.  And that was what I enjoyed the most…her spiritual journey.  Lexie’s journey had so many lessons about God’s love for us and plans for us.  It was truly wonderful how the author wove all of that into the story, taking the reader along on the same spiritual journey that Lexie and the others went on.  That being said, I not only recommend this book, but I will also be reading the rest of the trilogy.  A big thank you to author Derinda Babcock for helping me find yet another genre to appreciate and enjoy. 


*****I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions and viewpoints are my own.



About the Author:


Derinda Babcock writes short stories and full-length historical novels (coming 2015). Most are told from the Christian world view.

Monday, July 25, 2016

Surrender to Love by Dr. MaryAnn Diorio

Book Description:

When young widow and life coach Dr. Teresa Lopez Gonzalez goes to Puerto Rico to coach Pilar Sanchez, the granddaughter of her mother’s best childhood friend, Teresa comes face-to-face with her own unwillingness to surrender to God's will for her life. In the process, she learns that only by losing her life will she truly find it.

My Thoughts:

One of the first things I notice about a book is the cover, and this was no exception.  I was immediately drawn in by the cover because the scenery looked very familiar to me.  Once I read the description, I knew I was correct.  This is a book whose setting is Puerto Rico, and that  made the book unique, which is the first thing that drew me to the book.  As I read it, I found that the uniqueness of the setting was just one of the things that made this book so special.

Puerto Rico is called “the island of enchantment” and that is what it turned out to be for Dr. Teresa Lopez Gonzalez.  Teresa’s trip to the island wasn’t planned.  It just sort of came up.  As a life coach, Teresa was invited to Puerto Rico by her mother’s longtime friend, Ramona Sanchez.  Ramona requested that Teresa coach her granddaughter, Pilar Sanchez, who suffered from the grief of growing up without a mother.  Pilar’s father, Marcos Sanchez, was at his wits’ end with how to help Pilar, until a ray of hope came in the form of Teresa.  However, for Teresa to help, she had to leave her comfort zone, aka New Jersey, where she had been “existing” by throwing herself into her work after the unexpected passing of her husband five years earlier.  Once in Puerto Rico, the lives of Teresa, Marcos, and Pilar are thrown together in a way that no one expected.  

And that’s where the story really takes off. There were similarities with Teresa, Marcos, and Pilar.  Each one had suffered loss, and each one dealt with it in a different way.  The common factor of how is expertly woven into a story that combines loss, grief, faith, new beginnings, romance, and a splash of humor, which makes Surrender to Love such a special book.  Throw in some breathtaking descriptions of “the island of enchantment” and you have a lovely story that you won’t want to miss.  

*****I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions and viewpoints are my own.




About the Author
Dr. MaryAnn Diorio is a follower of Jesus Christ who is passionate about writing compelling and entertaining fiction that transforms lives. Her fiction has won several awards, including the Silver Medal for eBook Fiction in the Illumination Book Awards Program sponsored by the Jenkins Group; First Place in Inspirational Fiction in the 2011 Colorado RWA Heart of the Rockies Contest; and First Place in Inspirational Fiction in the 2011 Space Coast Authors of Romance (STAR) Launching a Star Contest. 

Her latest work of fiction is a novel titled THE MADONNA OF PISANO. It is the first in the trilogy called THE ITALIAN CHRONICLES. 

MaryAnn also writes for children. Her latest children’s book is titled CANDLE LOVE and helps little ones cope with sibling rivalry. TOBY TOO SMALL is a story about a little boy who learns that it's not how big you are on the outside that matters; it's how big you are on the inside.

MaryAnn holds the PhD and the MPhil in French and Comparative Literature from the University of Kansas, the MA in Italian Language and Literature from Middlebury College, and the MFA in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University. She writes a popular blog titled "Matters of the Heart" (www.maryanndiorio.com/blog) that, like her fiction writing, deals with the deepest issues of the human heart. She also writes a blog for teen girls called Gabriel Girls (gabrielgirls.blogspot.com). In her spare time, she loves to read, paint, and make up silly songs for her grandchildren.

Dr. MaryAnn resides in New Jersey with her husband Dom, a retired ER physician. They are the blessed parents of two wonderful daughters, a fantastic son-in-law, and five rambunctious grandchildren.

You may contact Dr. MaryAnn at the following social media venues:
Website: www.maryanndiorio.com
Blog (Matters of the Heart): http://www.networkedblogs.com/blog/maryanndiorioblog
Amazon Author Central: http://www.amazon.com/author/maryanndiorio
Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/DrMaryAnnDiorio
Twitter: http://Twitter.com/@DrMaryAnnDiorio
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6592603
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=45380421
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/drmaryanndiorio/
Google+: http://plus.google.com/u/0/+DrMaryAnnDiorio

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/drmaryanndiorio/


Wednesday, July 20, 2016

A Splash of Substance: Contemporary Christian Romance (Taste of Romance Book 1) by Elizabeth Maddrey

Book Description:

She doesn't vote. He works for a Senator. Is it a recipe for romance or disaster? 

Paige Jackson has always stayed out of politics, leaving it to God to govern the world. She has enough on her plate as the owner of a catering company founded on convictions to buy local, sustainable fare. Jackson Trent works on Capitol Hill for Senator Carson, putting his beliefs in action to help shape national policy. 

Hoping to find high-end clients to keep her business afloat, Paige bids on a contract to cater the Senator’s next fundraiser. Shake-ups in the Senator’s staff leave Jackson grudgingly in charge of the event. After Paige is chosen as caterer, she and Jackson must work together despite opposing beliefs on how God calls Christians to participate in government. As Paige introduces Jackson to sustainable fare, it’s not just the food that piques his interest. 

When Senator Carson becomes front-page news in Washington, Paige is sucked into the whirlwind of scandal. Can Jackson convince Paige he wasn't complicit and win her back or has politics burned his chance at love? 

Book One in a new series of Contemporary Christian Romance from Elizabeth Maddrey, A Splash of Substance is a heartwarming romance that also provides readers a chance to consider their views on the civic responsibility of Christians and sustainable living in the suburbs. 


My Thoughts:

Being that this is the first book I’ve read by this author, I was not sure what to expect.  However, having read it, I know that I’ll be coming back to read more of her works.  

Elizabeth Maddrey’s A Splash of Substance is a very enjoyable romance.  I liked how the main characters were quite different from each other.  On the one hand you have Paige Jackson, owner of a catering company, who isn’t even registered to vote.  On the other hand, you have Jackson Trent, who works for a senator on Capitol Hill.  That alone puts them on opposite ends of the spectrum, but as the saying goes, opposites attract.  However, it doesn’t happen over night and I enjoyed the way their relationship evolved from work associates, to friendship, and then to romance instead of immediately to romance.  I also enjoyed how they each embraced different viewpoints on issues that they originally didn’t see eye to eye on.  All of this added more to the realism of their relationship.

The author also threw in some interesting supporting characters that added to the humor that was also part of the story.  Jackson’s roommates were so fun.  Their dialogues, interactions, and banter with one another were so spot on and added so much to the story.  Paige’s roommate, on the other hand, left much to be desired, but their interactions added much to the story as well.     

Although A Splash of Substance is a romance, it also had humor, faith issues, some social issues, and a little splash of intrigue.  All in all it made for a fun and entertaining read that you’re sure to enjoy.

*****I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions and viewpoints are my own.




About the Author

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 math and organization steered her into computer science for college and graduate school, she has always had one or more stories in progress to occupy her free time. 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. Elizabeth lives in the suburbs of Washington D.C. with her husband and their two incredibly active little boys.


Wednesday, June 22, 2016

Monday, June 6, 2016

Loving A Lawman (A Cattle Creek Novel) by Amy Lillard

Book Description:

As cowboys, the Langston brothers of Cattle Creek, Texas, know it can hurt like hell to fall off a horse. But it can hurt even more to fall in love. . . .

Sheriff Seth Langston is head over heels for local wild child Jessie McAllen and has been for years. The trouble is she has eyes only for Seth’s rodeo star brother, Chase. Even though he considers Jessie his girl, Chase is an incorrigible ladies’ man with a wandering eye and no chance of settling down soon.

Jessie is ready to move away from Cattle Creek to put her feelings for Chase behind her, but after she shares a white-hot kiss with Seth, things get a little complicated. Jessie realizes her heart should have been his all along. And in the face of sudden tragedy, they’ll discover if their newfound passion will tear the Langston men apart or make the family stronger than ever. . . .


My Thoughts:

A Fun and Entertaining Read

It happens.  I pick up a book and say, “I’m just going to read one chapter.”  However, one chapter turns into two, which turns into three, which turns into the whole book.  Yup.  That’s exactly how it went down when I read Loving a Lawman by Amy Lillard.  Why was it so hard to put down?  Here are some of the reasons.

First, It’s a contemporary romance  with a western theme.  This is one of my favorite genres.  It doesn’t matter if it’s current or in the past.  If it’s a western romance, I’m there.

Second, I loved the main characters!  Jessie McAllen, for lack of a better term, is a hot mess, or rather, has a way of ending up in some kind of a hot mess.  She’s “in love” with commitment phobic, bad boy, rodeo star, Chase Langston.  However, unbeknownst to Jessie, kindhearted Sheriff Seth Langston, Chase’s brother, has been in love with her for years.  The two share a passionate kiss and that’s where the surprises and changes begin. 

And that brings me to reason number three.  Loving a Lawman had some unexpected twists and turns that kept me turning the pages, because I had to know what happened next.  The story made me laugh, but at the same time had some gut wrenching parts that had me ready to cry.  I enjoyed how the relationship between Jessie and Seth developed.  I also enjoyed the banter between the two. It was very entertaining.  Although not all contemporary romance stories contain bedroom scenes, this one does have few. 

I found Loving a Lawman to be a fun, romantic, and entertaining read, one that once you get started,  you won’t want to put down.

***In my humble opinion, although there are no graphic scenes, I would recommended this for mature readers. 
*****I received an ARC copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions and viewpoints are my own.  




Author Biography:

I'm a wife, mother, and bona fide Southern belle. Published author, expert corn bread maker, and Squirrel Princess.

I live in Tulsa, though I was born in Mississippi. I moved to the Sooner State when I was seventeen and met my soul mate and best friend not long after. I've retained a little of my Mississippi accent though most people think I'm from Texas. (?) Rob and I have been married for over twenty years and have a son-a mom proclaimed prodigy, of course!

I love homemade tacos, nail polish, and romance novels-not necessarily in that order. I'm a big fan of country music, a staunch proponent of saving the Oxford comma, and I'm shamefully obsessed with all things Harry Potter.

I believe that God is love. I guess that's why I love to write inspirational romances. The two go hand-in-hand for me.

I have always been intrigued with the Amish culture, their gentle ways and slower-paced lifestyle. (And I love, love, love the fact that they stay married for their lifetime.) But until recently I never thought to blend this interest with my penchant for romance. Okay, okay, I'm a bit old-fashioned and even enjoy the gender roles that are present in this culture. I love to cook and take care of my family. Yes, that's me June Cleaver with a laptop.

I dislike people trying to convince me to read the Twlight series (I'll get to it or I won't, either way I'm good with it), gratuitous violence, and strawberry ice cream. (I know I'm alone on this last one, and again, I'm good with it.)


Favorite movies-(besides HP) French Kiss, Maid of Honor, A Lot Like Love, Just Married, and Sweet Home Alabama. Oh, and Miss Congeniality, Sabrina (both versions) and a 1940′s movie called Dear Ruth. If you haven't seen it, you should! A-dorable. Anything with Doris Day and most all of Marilyn's and Audrey's.


Saturday, May 28, 2016

Orange Blossom Cafe: Christian Contemporary Romance novella (American State Flower) by T. I. Lowe

Book Description:

What happens when a new restaurant opens right next door to your café? 
Sabotage it, of course! 

Well, that’s what Aiden O’Connell thought until she tangles one too many times with the charismatic Phillip Moreau. Between their wild run-ins and her new craving for caramels, Aiden may have finally met her match. 

Recipe for a Witty Romantic Tale 
Take one stubborn-minded heroine. Add a serving of spice with one flirty hero, who has no trouble holding his own against her feistiness. Mix in hilarious sabotages that slightly miss the mark and an amusing dash of mischief. Don’t forget to resolve the angst with an anticipated kiss. 
Recipe Tip: Be sure to balance the portions of tension and chemistry in order to whip up the sweetest, love-inspiring result. 

Recipe Included
Literature & Fiction > Religious & Inspirational Fiction > Romance


My Thoughts:

This is my first book by author T. I. Lowe, but it definitely won't be my last.  What a lovely, refreshing, fun, romantic, inspirational, and entertaining read!  Although it was a short read, it moved along at a good pace without feeling rushed.  I loved the interactions and pranks between the main characters, Aiden and Fisher, although I truly wanted to smack Aiden upside the head more than once.  She was truly getting on my last nerve and annoying me to no end.  However, that's just one of the things that made the story so enjoyable.  And of course my favorite part? The HEA ending.  Loved it!


About the Author:

T.I. Lowe is a southern belle that resides on a small farm hidden in the boonies near coastal South Carolina. Most days you can easily find T.I. in her kitchen, whipping up homemade treats for her babies and neighbors or glued to her computer keyboard. She enjoys drifting away in the fictitious world of the latest novel while bathing in the warm southern sunshine with a glass of iced tea in hand.

"I am running with patience the race set before me, looking unto Jesus, my author and finisher of my faith."

She is currently working on the Coming Home Again Series.
Information and Excerpts are available on her website: tilowe.com



She would love to hear from you!! 
ti.lowe@yahoo.com






Friday, May 27, 2016

Hope in the Land (Amish Turns of Time Book 4) by Olivia Newport

Book Description:

When Henry Edison turns up in Lancaster County to survey farm women about their domestic contributions during the 1930s, the last thing Amish housewife Gloria Grabill has time for is the government agent’s unending questions. Gloria’s hands are already full with a farm to run alongside her husband, a houseful of children, and an English neighbor, Minerva Swain, who has been trying Gloria’s patience for forty years. Gloria’s oldest daughter, Polly, wants nothing more than the traditional path of an Amish farmer’s wife, but everything she does seems to push Thomas Coblentz further away. While the Great Depression shadows the country in gloom, can Amish and English neighbors in Lancaster County grasp the goodness that will sustain hope?


My Thoughts:

Ever since reading my first Olivia Newport book, Accidentally Amish (Valley of Choice Book 1), I realized that the author writes a very different type of story.  One of the main differences is that Ms. Newport’s writing is outside of the box.  None are a cookie cutter format, which maker her writing very refreshing.  

Her series, Amish Turns of Time, is a wonderful series, and Hope in the Land is a great addition to it.  The author incorporates a history lesson into a story of hope, romance, intrigue, mystery, overcoming obstacles, forgiving, and faith,.  The author combines these elements flawlessly in a way that keeps the reader enthralled up to the very end, and that is no easy feat.  

As a reader, I enjoy reading historical fiction from the the old west era.  However, I always bypasses any other era, especially the Depression.  And yet, once I began reading Hope in the Land, I didn’t put it down until I had read the very last word.  That’s how much it grabbed me and sucked me in.  I even learned a few things that I didn’t know had occurred during that time.  So, not only did I enjoy the story immensely, I also learned a few things in the process.

Part of Hope in the Land focuses on the forty year trying relationship between Amish Gloria Grabill and Englisher Minerva Swain.  However, more of the story focuses on Polly Grabill, Gloria’s daughter.  I really enjoyed seeing how unique Polly is and how that factored into her relationship with her family, friends, Thomas Coblentz, and Englisher Henry Edison.  While all of the characters had their special place in the story, l loved Polly’s character and her uniqueness the most.  It added a whole new dimension to the story.  All in all, Hope in the Land is a perfectly blended story that is a joy to read and one that will keep you guessing up to the very end.


****While Hope in the Land is part of a series, it can be read as a stand alone.
*****I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions and viewpoints are my own.




About the Author:


Olivia Newport's novels twist through time to find where faith and passions meet. She chases joy in Colorado, where daylilies grow as tall as she is. Her husband and two twenty-something children provide welcome distraction from the people stomping through her head on their way into her books.


Tuesday, April 5, 2016

Just Plain Sadie (A Wells Landing Romance) by Amy Lillard

Book Description:

The Amish of Wells Landing, Oklahoma, treasure their close-knit community, and the promise of their growing families. But one young woman is struggling to choose a future that is true to both her heart and her faith…

Everyone in Wells Landing has long expected Sadie Kauffman and Chris Flaud to marry--despite Sadie's telling them differently. While she loves Chris, it is more as a friend than a husband. Yet at twenty-two, the plainest girl in her group, Sadie is also the only one who is still single. Perhaps it's time to be practical and marry Chris--though he still has not asked. But when Sadie meets a kind, handsome Mennonite, it seems her prayers have been answered… 

With Ezra Hein, Sadie at last feels the joy she nearly gave up on. Unfortunately, others only feel shock that she would consider marrying an outsider. To complicate matters, Chris has finally begun talking to Sadie about their future. Distressed, Sadie will have to search her heart to recognize God's marvelous gifts to her--and find the courage to accept them, challenges and all…


My Thoughts:

I’ve read all of the books in Amy Lillard’s Wells Landing Romance series and have loved each one.  Oklahoma isn’t a place where one would typically think of as having an Amish community.  However, it is clear that the author has done her research on the subject.  The way she writes about the community draws you in so much that you can visualize every detail.  I can just imagine seeing an Amish man, or woman, riding down the road on their tractors. What a sight that must be!

Aside from the wonderful descriptive scenes, Just Plain Sadie takes you on a rush of emotions.  One minute I was excited for her, the next I was worried about what she would do…a real roller coaster ride.  It had so many aspects to it.  There was love, friendship, pain, soul searching, humor, suspense, hope, biases, overcoming, and so much more.  Amy Lillard flawlessly meshed all of those together into a beautiful story.  Nothing was too over the top or not enough.  I also loved how characters from other books in the series were also part of Just Plain Sadie.  The author gave just enough background information without letting it take over Sadie’s story.  All in all, Just Plain Sadie is a great addition to the Wells Landing series, and one you won’t want to miss.

**Although this book is part of a series, it can be read as a stand alone.


*****I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions and viewpoints are my own.



About the Author:
Amy Lillard is an award-winning writer who loves reading romance novels from contemporary to Amish. These two genres met in her first book, 2012's "Saving Gideon." Born and bred in Mississippi, she now lives with her husband and son in Oklahoma.

More About the Author:  Biography
I'm a wife, mother, and bona fide Southern belle. Published author, expert corn bread maker, and Squirrel Princess.

I live in Tulsa, though I was born in Mississippi. I moved to the Sooner State when I was seventeen and met my soul mate and best friend not long after. I've retained a little of my Mississippi accent though most people think I'm from Texas. (?) Rob and I have been married for over twenty years and have a son-a mom proclaimed prodigy, of course!

I love homemade tacos, nail polish, and romance novels-not necessarily in that order. I'm a big fan of country music, a staunch proponent of saving the Oxford comma, and I'm shamefully obsessed with all things Harry Potter.

I believe that God is love. I guess that's why I love to write inspirational romances. The two go hand-in-hand for me.

I have always been intrigued with the Amish culture, their gentle ways and slower-paced lifestyle. (And I love, love, love the fact that they stay married for their lifetime.) But until recently I never thought to blend this interest with my penchant for romance. Okay, okay, I'm a bit old-fashioned and even enjoy the gender roles that are present in this culture. I love to cook and take care of my family. Yes, that's me June Cleaver with a laptop.

I dislike people trying to convince me to read the Twlight series (I'll get to it or I won't, either way I'm good with it), gratuitous violence, and strawberry ice cream. (I know I'm alone on this last one, and again, I'm good with it.)

Favorite movies-(besides HP) French Kiss, Maid of Honor, A Lot Like Love, Just Married, and Sweet Home Alabama. Oh, and Miss Congeniality, Sabrina (both versions) and a 1940′s movie called Dear Ruth. If you haven't seen it, you should! A-dorable. Anything with Doris Day and most all of Marilyn's and Audrey's.


Sunday, February 14, 2016

#692 - 'Trust In You' by Lauren Daigle

#692 - 'Trust In You' by Lauren Daigle: Lauren Daigle talks about walking through questions and doubt to come to a place of affirming the truths in this song.

My Thoughts on "Trust In You" by Lauren Daigle

Where to begin?  Well, it's plain and simple.  I ab-so-lute-ly-love-love-love this song.  I heard it on the radio and immediately stopped what I was doing to pay close attention to the lyrics.  Once it was over, I found it on YouTube and played it over again and again and again.  This song just cuts right to the heart of things.  

Most of us have a constant need to be in control of things in our lives.  It's just human nature to be that way. This song reminds us that we are not in control.  God is.  No matter how we want things to be, God in His omniscience, knows all things.  He knows when it's time to move the mountains, part the waters, and give the answers.  Our job is to trust in Him.   

So, as I listen to the song, I don't just focus on the lyrics.  I also focus on God's Word and I remember to always trust Him.  

Proverbs 3:5-6 (Amplified Bible)  

Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart
And do not rely on your own insight or understanding.


In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him,
And He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].


Lyrics "Trust In You" by Lauren Daigle*

Letting go of every single dream
I lay each one down at Your feet
Every moment of my wandering
Never changes what You see

I've tried to win this war I confess
My hands are weary I need Your rest
Mighty Warrior, King of the fight
No matter what I face, You're by my side

When You don't move the mountains I'm needing You to move
When You don't part the waters I wish I could walk through
When You don't give the answers as I cry out to You
I will trust, I will trust, I will trust in You!

Truth is, You know what tomorrow brings
There's not a day ahead You have not seen
So, in all things be my life and breath
I want what You want Lord and nothing less

When You don't move the mountains I'm needing You to move
When You don't part the waters I wish I could walk through
When You don't give the answers as I cry out to You
I will trust, I will trust, I will trust in You!

You are my strength and comfort
You are my steady hand
You are my firm foundation; the rock on which I stand

Your ways are always higher
Your plans are always good
There's not a place where I'll go, You've not already stood

When You don't move the mountains I'm needing You to move
When You don't part the waters I wish I could walk through
When You don't give the answers as I cry out to You
I will trust, I will trust, I will trust in You!

I will trust in You!

*http://artists.letssingit.com/lauren-daigle-lyrics-trust-in-you-4r2w647#axzz40BvOR3S7