The Love Letter by Rachel Hauck - Review

I received this book free from the publisher. All opinions are my own

Book details

Paperback: 352 pages

Publisher: Thomas Nelson (June 12, 2018)

Book description

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Wedding Dress comes a story of long-lost love and its redemption in future generations.

Romance has never been actress Chloe Daschle’s forte—in life or on screen. But everyone knows who to call for a convincing death scene . . . and it might be killing her career.

When Chloe is given a peek at the script for an epic love story, she decides to take her destiny into her own hands and request an audition for the lead female role, Esther Kingsley. The compelling tale, inspired by family lore and a one-page letter from the colonial ancestor of scriptwriter Jesse Gates, just might break her out of this career-crippling rut. Jesse would rather write about romance than live through it after his past relationship ended in disaster. But once on-set together, the chemistry between Jesse and his leading lady is hard to deny.

Centuries earlier, in the heart of the Revolutionary War, Hamilton Lightfoot and Esther Longfellow wrote their saga off the silver screen. Esther’s Loyalist father opposes any relationship with Hamilton, but Esther must face her beloved father’s disapproval and the dangers of war in order to convince Hamilton of their future together. Hamilton has loved Esther for years, and on the eve of battle pens the love letter she’s always wanted—something straight from the heart.

Set in stunning upcountry South Carolina, The Love Letter is a beautifully-crafted story of the courage it takes to face down fear and chase after love, even in the darkest of times. And just maybe, all these generations later, love can come home in a way not even Hollywood could imagine.

Purchase Links
Amazon | Books-A-Million | Barnes & Noble | iBooks

Meet the author - Rachel Hauck

Rachel Hauck is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA TODAY bestselling author of The Wedding Dress, which was also named Inspirational Novel of the Year by Romantic Times and was a RITA finalist. Rachel lives in central Florida with her husband and pet and writes from her ivory tower.

Connect with Rachel
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

My thoughts

I enjoyed the setting and time period of this story. This is kind of considered a time-slip novel since it takes place in two different time periods. The Revolutionary time period is always one of my go-time settings. Rachel did a good job in capturing the time and place. I felt as if her research showed through. She also did a good job of going back and forth between the stories. When I would be reading one story I found I could not wait to see what happened with the first story. I thought all the characters were strong and liked the way each of their personalities showed through. The author created another great book. 

Tour participants

Monday, July 23rd: Write Read Life

Tuesday, July 24th: The Romance Dish

Wednesday, July 25th: Running Through the Storms

Thursday, July 26th: A Holland Reads

Friday, July 27th: Kritter’s Ramblings

Monday, July 30th: Books & Bindings

Tuesday, July 31st: From the TBR Pile

Wednesday, August 1st: Diary of a Stay at Home Mom

Thursday, August 2nd: Jathan & Heather

Friday, August 3rd: Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers

Friday, August 3rd: @ladyofthelibrary

Monday, August 6th: Blooming with Books

Monday, August 6th: Fiction Aficionado

Tuesday, August 7th: A Chick Who Reads

Wednesday, August 8th: What is That Book About

Thursday, August 9th: Girl Who Reads

Friday, August 10th: Broken Teepee

Monday, August 13th: Here’s to Happy Endings

Tuesday, August 14th: Empowermoms

Thursday, August 16th: Read Eat Repeat

The Writing Desk by Rachel Hauck - Review

I received this book free from the publisher

About the book:

ISBN-13: 978-0310341598

Hardcover: 352 pages

Publisher: Zondervan (July 11, 2017)

What this book is about:

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Wedding Dress comes a new captivating novel of secrets, romance, and two women bound together across time by a shared dream.

Tenley Roth’s first book was a runaway bestseller. Now that her second book is due, she’s locked in fear. Can she repeat her earlier success or is she a fraud who has run out of inspiration?

With pressure mounting from her publisher, Tenley is weighted with writer’s block. But when her estranged mother calls asking Tenley to help her through chemotherapy, she packs up for Florida where she meets handsome furniture designer Jonas Sullivan and discovers the story her heart’s been missing.

A century earlier, another woman wrote at the same desk with hopes and fears of her own. Born during the Gilded Age, Birdie Shehorn is the daughter of the old money Knickerbockers. Under the strict control of her mother, her every move is decided ahead of time, even whom she’ll marry. But Birdie has dreams she doesn’t know how to realize. She wants to tell stories, write novels, make an impact on the world. When she discovers her mother has taken extreme measures to manipulate her future, she must choose between submission and security or forging a brand new way all on her own.

Tenley and Birdie are from two very different worlds, but fate has bound them together in a way time cannot erase.

Purchase Links
Amazon | Books-A-Million | Barnes & Noble

Meet the author - Rachel Hauck:

Rachel Hauck is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA TODAY bestselling author of The Wedding Dress, which was also named Inspirational Novel of the Year by Romantic Times and was a RITA finalist. Rachel lives in central Florida with her husband and two pets and writes from her ivory tower.

Connect with Rachel
Website | Facebook | Twitter

My thoughts about the book:

Let's just start by saying that Rachel has give us another his with this book. Two stories from two different time periods being told at the same time, I love it. The way it was told and how the writing desk linked the two stories was a nice story for me. I liked how this story was about two strong determined women. It goes to show that if you work and know what you want you can achieve it. The author made the two ladies real to me because they were not perfect they made mistakes in their lives and had to learn from them. There were also some other characters that stand out to me - you have the two male interests of Tenley and Birdie, but you also have Birdie's mom and a few others. They each played a special part of this book. I also liked how the author has history and romance in this story but none of these were over powering. They just added to the telling and details which made for a good read. This is a book you should add to your list of to read books. 

TLC Book Tours TOUR STOPS:

Monday, July 24th: A. Holland Reads

Wednesday, July 26th: Fiction Aficionado

Friday, July 28th: A Chick Who Reads

Tuesday, August 1st: Broken Teepee

Wednesday, August 2nd: Just One More Chapter

Friday, August 4th: Cafinated Reads

Monday, August 7th: Kritter’s Ramblings

Wednesday, August 9th: The Overweight Bookshelf

Friday, August 11th: By the Book

Monday, August 14th: Reviews from the Heart

Tuesday, August 15th: Books a la Mode – author guest post

Wednesday, August 16th: A Night’s Dream of Books

Thursday, August 17th: Just Commonly

Monday, August 21st: From the TBR Pile

Tuesday, August 22nd: Bloggin’ ‘Bout Books

Wednesday, August 23rd: Cheryl’s Book Nook

Thursday, August 24th: Reading is My SuperPower

Friday, August 25th: Diary of a Stay at Home Mom

Monday, August 28th: Steph the Bookworm

The Bride's Matchmaking Triplets by Regina Scott - Review

I received this book free from the author

Book details:

Series: Lone Star Cowboy League: Multiple Blessings

Mass Market Paperback: 288 pages

Publisher: Love Inspired Historicals (June 6, 2017)

ISBN-13: 978-0373425266

About the book:

Marriage by Necessity

When mail-order bride Elizabeth Dumont's intended weds another, her only option is to take a job as nanny to abandoned triplet babies. Though she longs to provide a real home for her three precious charges, as a single woman she can't adopt. Until her onetime sweetheart, minister Brandon Stillwater, offers a match of convenience...

It's only for the triplets' sake--that's what Brandon tells himself. Insecurities once drove him and Elizabeth apart, and now small-town rumors have made them man and wife. And though Brandon doesn't want to risk his heart this time, he's not sure he can resist the feelings that are once again starting to bloom for Elizabeth. But can he convince her that this sweet surprise family is more than just convenient?

Meet the author: Regina Scott

Regina Scott started writing novels in the third grade. Thankfully for literature as we know it, she didn’t actually sell her first novel until she had learned a bit more about writing. Since her first book was published in 1998, her stories have traveled the globe, with translations in many languages including Dutch, German, Italian, and Portuguese. She and her husband of over 25 years reside in southeast Washington State.

My thoughts:

I have to say I really enjoyed this book. The little triplets - Theo, Jasper and Eli were the cutest boys. It was so fun to watch their personalities come out as the book went along. Elizabeth was such a great character to get to know. I felt bad for her as her best friend really did her wrong and caused her to lose the love of her life and she does not even realize it. In a way I wish her and Brandon would have actually talked to each other about this to realize what happened. Brandon was such a sweet person. Seeing the boys bring these two together was nice. I was on the edge of my seat when the triplets "relatives" showed up. Oh and I can't forget Gil and Jo they were such a sweet addition to this story and to learn about their love for the triplets was so cute. I am glad I got the chance to read this book. 

Never Forget by Jody Hedlund - Review

I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review

Published: January 1, 2017

Number of pages: 284

Genre: Christian, Historical Fiction

Series: Beacons of Hope #5

Synopsis:

Rose Island Lighthouse, Rhode Island June 1880 Will she betray his trust to stay on the island she loves? Abbie Watson is content to spend her days clamming, crabbing, and tending Rose Island Lighthouse. Her grandpa is the head light keeper, but his senility may lead to their eviction. Since leaving the island would kill her beloved Gramps, Abbie will do anything to keep him in the one place he knows and loves. Wealthy Nathaniel Winthrop III’s wild living has gained him a reputation as the ‘bad boy’ among the elite social circles of Newport. After a blow to the head in a yachting accident washes him up on Rose Island, Nathaniel has no memories of his past. Abbie tends the wounded stranger in her home only to realize he assumes they’re married. Although she knows she needs to correct Nathaniel’s mistake, his presence calms Gramps and provides a way to prevent eviction from the lighthouse. The longer the charade continues, the harder it gets for Abbie to tell Nathaniel the truth, more so as she begins to fall in love. Everyone she’s ever loved has abandoned her. Will Nathaniel leave her too, once he discovers he’s not really her husband? **NOTE: Never Forget is Book 5 in the Beacons of Hope series but can be read as a standalone novel.

My thoughts:

This has been one of my go to series. I love that they have all been set in a lighthouse and this book did not disappoint me. This is the last book in this series and I was sad to see it end. I will say you can read these as a stand alone but they are better if read in order. The author has a way of making you really feel the emotions of the characters and that you are a part of the book. She also does a good job in describing the setting of the story as well as the emotions of the characters. I think it was great that Abbie was trying to do what she could to help her grandpa out so he could stay where he is comfortable. Then you have Nathaniel who end up in a place he does not know where it is nor how he got there. But as things move along they both grow closer together. I thought this was a fitting end to this series. 

About the author:

Winner of 2016 Christian Book Award for fiction and Christy Award for historical romance, best-selling author Jody Hedlund writes inspirational historical romances for both youth and adults.

Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. Although Jody prefers to experience daring and dangerous adventures through her characters rather than in real life, she’s learned that a calm existence is simply not meant to be (at least in this phase of her life!).

When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.

The Mark of the King by Jocelyn Green - Review

I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review

Published: January 3, 2017

Number of pages: 416

Genre: Christian, Historical Fiction

Synopsis:

Sweeping Historical Fiction Set at the Edge of the Continent

After being imprisoned and branded for the death of her client, twenty-five-year-old midwife Julianne Chevalier trades her life sentence for exile to the fledgling 1720s French colony of Louisiana, where she hopes to be reunited with her brother, serving there as a soldier. To make the journey, though, women must be married, and Julianne is forced to wed a fellow convict.

When they arrive in New Orleans, there is no news of Benjamin, Julianne's brother, and searching for answers proves dangerous. What is behind the mystery, and does military officer Marc-Paul Girard know more than he is letting on?

With her dreams of a new life shattered, Julianne must find her way in this dangerous, rugged land, despite never being able to escape the king's mark on her shoulder that brands her a criminal beyond redemption.

My thoughts:

What can I say about this book - it ranks at the top of the books I have read. I felt bad for Julianne from the start of this book. First she was accused of the death of a client, then forced to marry a convict and has to learn to make a life in a new country. The emotions and the things she went through were not for a week person. I enjoyed the setting of this story and the history behind the colony of Louisiana. The author took her time and did her research so you got all of the details. While reading this book your emotions will be put through the wringer. It is a book that once you start you will not be able to put down. Not only was it entertaining but educational as well. A must read. 

About the author:

Jocelyn Green is a former journalist who puts her investigative skills to work in writing both nonfiction and historical fiction to inspire faith and courage.

Her books have finaled in the Christy Awards and Inspirational Readers Choice Awards, and have won gold from the Military Writers Society of America and the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association.

Complex and nuanced characters, rich historical detail and twisting plots make her novels immersive experiences. Her fiction has been praised by Historical Novel Society, Romantic Times, Library Journal, historians specializing in her novels’ time periods, as well as popular and acclaimed authors Laura Frantz, Lori Benton, Jody Hedlund, Sarah Sundin, Joanne Bischof, Julie Lessman, and more.

Jocelyn loves Broadway musicals, the color red, Toblerone chocolate bars, Mexican food, and well-done documentaries. She lives in Iowa with her husband, two children, and two cats she should have named Catticus Finch and Purrman Meowville.

Visit her at jocelyngreen.com, and receive a free gift when joining her e-newsletter mailing list at jocelyngreen.com/subscribe.

Giver of Wonders by Roseanna M. White - Review

I voluntarily reviewed this book

Published: November 1, 2016

Number of pages: 322

Genre; Christian Historical Fiction

Synopsis:

A miracle once saved her life ~ will another give her a future?

Cyprus was little more than a child when a fall left her paralyzed...and when the boy known as the wonder-worker healed her. Ever since, she has wondered why the Lord spared her, what he has in store for her. But her pagan father thinks she was spared solely so she could be introduced to the wealthy wonder-worker, Nikolaos.

Nikolaos has never questioned that his call in life is to dedicate himself to the church and to God. Never, that is, until he and his cousin Petros meet the compelling Cyprus Visibullis. For years he struggles with the feelings she inspires...and with the sure knowledge that Petros loves her too.

Petros knows he will never be good enough for Cyprus's father to consider him as a match for his favorite daughter not as long as Nikolaos is there. But when tragedy strikes the Visibullis family, he will do anything to save his beloved. Unfortunately, his beloved is determined to do anything to save her sisters ~ even at the cost of herself.

As the festival of lights bathes their Greek city in beauty, Cyprus, Petros, and Nikolaos celebrate the miracle of their Savior s birth together one last time. And in remembrance of their Lord's greatest gift, one of them will make the ultimate sacrifice for the others...and a centuries-long tradition will be born.

My thoughts:

I have to say I really enjoy all of this author's books but for some reason I did not like this one as well. It is nothing to do with the writing style I just had a hard time getting into this time period and the story. It is really hard for me to say this as I do not like giving less than great reviews. This is a nice book to read during the Holiday season. While you read it it will help you to understand  how the Christmas tradition started.The characters were well developed in this story and it was nice getting to know each of them. It was also nice to hear about Nikolaos' story before he became a saint. There was a lot of good descriptions in this book so you could really get a sense of where it takes place as well as the feelings of each of the characters. 

About the author:

Roseanna M. White pens her novels beneath her Betsy Ross flag, with her Jane Austen action figure watching over her. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two children, editing and designing, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna has a slew of historical novels available, ranging from biblical fiction to American-set romances to her new British series. She lives with her family in West Virginia. Learn more at www.RoseannaMWhite.com

Love, Lace and Minor Alterations by V. Joy Palmer - Review, Interview and Giveaway

I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review

Published: June 15, 2016

Number of pages: 300

Genre: Christian Romance

Isabel “Izze” Vez, bridal consultant extraordinaire, has been helping brides find The Dress for years. She loves nothing more than helping make wedding dreams come true…but sometimes the happy endings grate on her. How many times can a girl discover someone else’s gown without dreaming of the day it’ll be her turn to wear one? When James Miles Clayton walks into her life, he represents everything Izze can’t handle: change. He’s determined to bring the Ever After Bridal Boutique into the black…and to prove to Izze that she should give him a chance. ​But if there’s anything Izze handles worse than change, it’s trust. She may have a few issues—fine, she knows she does. But will they keep getting in the way of any chance of her own Happily Ever After? She wants to trust God to give her those dreams of love and lace, but that’s going to require some…minor alterations. ​GOODREADS | AMAZON | B&N | BOOKS-A-MILLION This is a fun feel good type of book. The story line read rather quickly and just makes you feel good. I enjoyed the characers and thought they were fun to get to know. In fact Izzy the main character is someone you would love to be friends with. I found myself smiling while reading about her story. The author's writing style flowed off the pages making the story read quickly. I enjoyed the setting of the wedding shop and what a better place for a romance to kindle then there. There is also an inspiring message in this book but it is not in your face which I like. This was a good first book by a new author and I am looking forward to more books by her.  V. Joy Palmer is an avid blogger and is co-founder of Snack Time Devotions. She is a youth leader at her church, and loves acting crazy and drinking coffee with the teens. When Joy isn’t urging the elves that live in her computer to write, she’s hanging out with her husband, their adorable baby girl, and their two socially awkward cats. This is her debut novel. ​GOODREADS | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | WEBSITE V. JOY PALMER BLOG | SNACK TIME DEVOTIONS BLOG 1. What do you want readers to take away from Love, Lace, and Minor Alterations? I really hope readers know all the way to the core of their souls that they can trust God. Life, drama, and fear can make it so hard for us to fully trust Him, but God has beautiful plans for us. I love it when readers tell me how God used truth nuggets to touch their hearts. So I really, really just want God to touch your heart. That’s what makes me happiest. :) 2. What inspired the idea for Love, Lace, and Minor Alterations? I’ve always been obsessed with weddings, and at the time, I was single and frustrated with the man who is now my husband. I started venting writing, and all of a sudden I just heard Izze in my head. The idea of a single woman in the wedding business who wanted to get married and was fed up with the leading man fascinated me. 3. What authors do you enjoy? Are some of these that inspired your own writing?I love SO MANY authors! And I will read pretty much any genre if there’s a romance in the story. However, some of my favorites who also inspired my writing would be Robin Jones Gunn, Erynn Mangum, Janice Thompson, Jenny B. Jones, and Lori Wick. 4. What is your current WIP (work in progress)? What details from this project can you share with us? All I can tell you about my current WIP is that while I love these character, I kind of want to shake them while sobbing hysterically. ;) Your worth in God and the things that define you are big themes. 5. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? Did becoming an author ever cross your mind? Well, there was that brief period where I wanted to be a bus driver… I always loved telling stories, writing songs, and reading. I started and stopped writing several stories while growing up, never showing them to anyone. I filled notebook after notebook with songs I had written. I wanted to be a singer/songwriter, but fear held me back. However, God is awesome because He took that dream and helped me fully realize another dream. In my senior year of high school, I realized I actually liked writing assignments. They made me downright giddy. Yeah, I’m a weirdo, but that’s when I knew I wanted to be an author. 6. When you are not writing, what other hobbies do you enjoy? Um, does eating chocolate or watching Gilmore Girls count as a hobby? I love hanging out with my husband, and our baby girl keeps me bouncing and laughing all day. I’m also a youth leader at my church. I read as much as I possibly can and even review some books on my blog. a Rafflecopter giveaway ​October 17--Bibliophile Reviews October 18--Wishful Endings October 19--Christian Bookaholic October 20--Faithfully Bookish October 21--Singing LIbrarian Books October 22--Zerina Blossom's Books October 24--Flowers of Quiet Happiness October 25--A Holland Reads October 26--Reading Is My SuperPower October 27--Bookworm Mama October 28--Encouraging Words from the Tea Queen October 29--Red Headed Book Lady | Rachael's Reads

The Cautious Maiden by Dawn Crandall - Review

Published: October 4, 2016

Number of pages:  304

Genre: Historical Fiction

Series: The Everstone Chronciles #34

Synopsis:

Violet Hawthorne is beyond mortified when her brother Ezra turns their deceased parents' New England country inn into a brothel to accommodate the nearby lumberjacks; but when Violet's own reputation is compromised, the inn becomes the least of her worries. In an effort to salvage her good name, Violet is forced into an engagement with a taciturn acquaintance; Vance Everstone. As she prepares for a society wedding, Violet learns that her brother had staked her hand in marriage in a heated poker game with the unsavory Rowen Steele, and Ezra had lost. Now Rowen is determined to cash in on his IOU. With danger stalking her and a new fiance who hides both his emotion and his past, Violet must decide who to trust and who to leave behind.

My thoughts:

This has been an enjoyable series to read. This book is no exception. I enjoyed getting to know Violet and Vance. I can imagine the horror she felt when her brother wanted to turn their family home into a brothel. What was he thinking. I thought the author did a good job in helping us to feel the chemistry between Violet and Vance as they got to know each other. There were times I felt really bad for Violet, but she was such a strong women that she handle everything with grace. The author captures the time and place transporting you back in time. I also thought the characters were well developed. Even though this book is a part of a series you are able to read it as a stand alone but I know you will want to go back and read about the other Everstones. This is a book that will grab you on page one and not let go. You will be thinking about it even after you are finished. A great addition to this series.

About the author:

Dawn Crandall is an ACFW Carol Award-nominated author of the award winning series The Everstone Chronicles, which consists of four books: The Hesitant Heiress, The Bound Heart, The Captive Imposter and The Cautious Maiden which released October 4th, 2016.
Apart from writing, Dawn is also a mom of two little ones and serves with her husband in a premarital mentorship program at their local church in Fort Wayne, Indiana. 

A graduate of Taylor University with a degree in Christian Education and a former bookseller at Barnes & Noble, Dawn Crandall didn't begin writing until 2010 when her husband found out about her long-buried dream. It didn't take her long to realize that writing books was what she was made to do. 

Dawn is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, the secretary for the Indiana ACFW Chapter (Hoosier Ink), and an associate member of the Great Lakes ACFW Chapter. She is represented by Joyce Hart of Hartline Literary Agency.

Newton & Polly by Jody Hedlund - Review

I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review

Published: September 20, 2016

Number of pages: 392

Genre: Historical Fiction

Synopsis:

Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
that saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost, but now am found 

Now remembered as the author of the world s most famous hymn, in the mid-eighteenth century as England and France stand on the brink of war, John Newton is a young sailor wandering aimlessly through life. His only duty is to report to his ship and avoid disgracing his father until the night he hears Polly Catlett's enchanting voice, caroling. He's immediately smitten and determined to win her affection. 

An intense connection quickly forms between the two, but John s reckless spirit and disregard for the Christian life are concerns for the responsible, devout Polly. When an ill-fated stop at a tavern leaves John imprisoned and bound, Polly must choose to either stand by his side or walk out of his life forever. Will she forfeit her future for the man she loves? 

Step back through the pages of history, to uncover the true love story behind a song that continues to stir the hearts and ignite the faith of millions around the globe."

What did I think of this book:

I really enjoyed this book. Amazing Grace has always been a favorite song of mine and to hear the back story told with Polly's story was amazing. I have seen the movie about John's story which was good but this book was even better. It just made the story seem even more real. I really liked hearing Polly's story and how much of an influence she had in John's life. Now I will tell you I was a little frustrated as I really wanted the two of them to make things work out a lot sooner than what they did. Billy would make me so mad when reading about his part that I just wished he would go away. John went through so much in his life and the way Jody describes the events and things that happen to him will make you chringe as she the descriptions were vivid to me. There were a few parts of the book that even gave me a lump in my throat which does not happen often for me. You must read the author's note at the end of the book as well as it just wraps things up for you. I was also happy to learn that there was very little of this book that was made up - so much of it really happened. I can only imagine the amount of research that went into the writing of this story. Definately at the top of list for the best books I have read in 2016. 

About the author:

Winner of the 2016 Christian Book Award for fiction and Christy Award for historical romance, best-selling author Jody Hedlund writes inspirational historical romances for both youth and adults.

Jody lives in central Michigan with her husband, five busy children, and five spoiled cats. Although Jody prefers to experience daring and dangerous adventures through her characters rather than in real life, she’s learned that a calm existence is simply not meant to be (at least in this phase of her life!).

When she’s not penning another of her page-turning stories, she loves to spend her time reading, especially when it also involves consuming coffee and chocolate.

God Bless Us Every One by Eva Marie Everson - Review

I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review

Published: September 6, 2016

Number of pages: 224

Genre: Christian Fiction

Synopsis:

Charlene Dixon---called Charlie by family and friends---is devastated at the recent loss of her job.

For the last five years, the twenty-seven-year-old has blossomed as the activities director of an exclusive all-girls school. But when a misunderstanding with the headmistress leads to a pink slip right before the holidays, Charlie packs up her dreams and returns to her grandmother, Sis, who raised Charlie as her own in the mountains of North Carolina.

When Charlie arrives---broken and confused---Sis immediately puts her granddaughter to work behind the scenes of the local school's Christmas play, A Christmas Carol. Charlie prickles at working with Dustin Kennedy, the drama teacher and her old crush from schooldays, but is even more put out at that the choice of the Dickens' classic for the holiday performance. When she discovers her estranged father's involvement her world turns on its head once more. But when Sis and Dustin encourage her to take a deeper look at the story behind A Christmas Carol, Charlie learns about trust, faith, and forgiveness and the needs of people in their own community.

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/2bUfaqD

What did I think of this book:

I thought this was a nice book that will help to get you in the mood for the holidays, but at the same time is fitting to be read at any time of the year. It is not just about holidays but so much more. I felt so bad for Charlie when she looses her job right before the holidays, what can be more devestating. Instead of watching her mope about her grandmother has other plans to get her out of the funk. So Charlie starts working on the Christmas play for the local school. While working on the play Charlie works through many emotions. I like how the author began each chapter with a part of Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol. This book was a modern telling of the story. If you like A Christmas Carol then you will enjoy this book. Also this is a very short book that can be read in one day or a weekend. A touching story.

About the author:

Eva Marie Everson is an award-winning speaker and author of The Road to Testament, Things Left Unspoken, This Fine Life, Chasing Sunsets, Waiting for Sunrise, Slow Moon Rising, and The Potluck Club series (with Linda Evans Shepherd). She is the president of Word Weavers International, Inc., a member of AWSA, ACFW, RWA, the director of Florida Christian Writer's Conference, and the contest director for Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writer's Conference. She and her husband make their home in Casselberry, Florida.

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Fetching Sweetness by Dana Mentink - Review and Giveaway

I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review

Published: August 1, 2016

Number of pages: 224

Genre: Romance, Christian Fiction

Synopsis:

Standing between Stephanie and her dream is one hundred pounds of lovable trouble.

It should have been so simple for Stephanie Pink: Meet up with Agnes Wharton in a small town in California, retrieve the reclusive author's valuable new manuscript, and be promoted to a full-fledged literary agent.

But Agnes's canine companion, Sweetness, decides to make a break for it before Stephanie can claim her prize. Until Agnes has Sweetness safely back at home in Eagle Cliff, Washington, Stephanie will never set eyes on the manuscript she needs to make her dreams come true.

When Stephanie tracks the runaway mutt to a campground, she meets Rhett Hastings---a man also on the run from a different life and a costly mistake. Rhett agrees to help Stephanie search for the missing dog . . . thus launching a surprising string of adventures and misadventures.

Once Sweetness gets added to the mix, it's a recipe for love and loss, merriment and mayhem, fun and faith in the backwoods of the Pacific Northwest.

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/2auLee3

My thoughts:

This is the second book in this series that I have read and I think I enjoyed it even more than the first one. I enjoy the writing style of this author as she turns this story into a quick read. It is also cute how the books have animal themed titles. The main character was very likeable to me as she is a bookaholic just like me. I enjoyed "watching" how Rhett and Stephanie's relationship grows throughout the story. For me one of the great thing about this book is the inclusion of the dogs. I love books that have a great pet that is just like a family member. This book is full of romance, humor and encouragment - an all around good book. I am looking forward to the next book in this series. 

About the author:

Dana Mentink lives in California, where the weather is golden and the cheese is divine. Dana is an American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year finalist for romantic suspense and an award winner in the Pacific Northwest Writers Literary Contest. Her suspense novel, Betrayal in the Badlands, earned a Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Award. Besides writing, she busies herself teaching third and fourth grade. Mostly, she loves to be home with her husband, two daughters, a dog with social anxiety problems, a chubby box turtle, and a feisty parakeet.

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Giveaway:

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Honor Redeemed by Christine Johnson - Review

I received this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review

Published: July 5, 2016

Number of pages: 352

Genre: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction

Series: Keys of Promise #2

Synopsis:

Two Men Vie for Her Affection--Survival Will Depend on Choosing the Right One

Two years ago, Prosperity Jones waved farewell to her beloved David as the army sent him to faraway Key West. Now with her parents gone, she has but one prospect for the future: make the dangerous journey from Nantucket to Key West to reunite with David and secure a happier life. Arriving penniless in the South, Prosperity is dismayed to find David married to someone else. Scrambling to survive and nursing a broken heart, she gains the friendship--and the affection--of a kind doctor. Could he be the answer to her loneliness? Or will her life be upended by circumstance yet again? 

With a deft hand, Christine Johnson fills the reader's senses with the sights, sounds, and smells of Key West in this heartwarming story of honor lost, honor redeemed, and a love forged in adversity.

What did I think of this book:

Christine Johnson has done it again with the newest addition to the Keys of Promise series. What a better setting could she have chosen for this series that the beautiful Key West. You could not help but feel bad for Prosperity. Her name suggests that things would be good for her but it was just the opposite. I can not imagine making such a long and hard journey as she did only to find out the man she loved was married to someone else. I know it all happened under not so good circumstances but it did not make things any easier for all involved. I was still angry at David for all of this. So now are you not only hurt but you are in a place foreign to you with no family or friends. But luckily Prosperity does find a way to move on in this situation and does so with the help of a kind doctor. I enjoyed reading about the Keys in time period and the descriptions as it helped the book seem real to me. I always enjoy the way this author can make you feel as if you are a part of the story. I am looking forward to the next book. 

About the author:

A small-town Michigan girl, Christine Johnson has lived in every corner of the state's Lower Peninsula. After trying her hand at music and art, she returned to her first love--story. She holds degrees in English and library studies and works part-time as a librarian. She feels blessed to write for Love Inspired and Revell.

When not at the computer keyboard, she loves to hike, kayak, and explore God's majestic creation. She and her husband split their time between northern Michigan and the Florida Keys. Christine enjoys hearing from readers through her web site at http://christineelizabethjohnson.com.

Someone Like You by Victoria Bylin

I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review

Published: May 3, 2016

Number of pages: 352

Genre: Christian Romance

Synopsis:

Single mom Julia Dare has a lot on her plate.

A brand new Christian, Julia is busy trying to run her own business, spend time with her widowed mother, and raise her young son, Max, despite his father's less-than-ideal influence on him. When a big account from her event-planning business sends her to the Caliente Springs resort, she's shocked to come face-to-face with Zeke Monroe, the resort's general manager and her college sweetheart.

With his faith in tatters, Zeke Monroe is determined to keep the historic Caliente Springs resort running despite financial difficulties. But when Julia walks back into his life, he can't ignore the feelings she stirs up. As they work together on an important client's dream wedding, the fate of the resort soon depends on their success. When Zeke and Julia are pushed to their limits both personally and professionally, will their history put up walls between them or bring them together?

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1TPfW3k

What did I think of this book:

I thought this was a cute romance story. It is nice to see couples getting a second chance at love. The characters in this story were very believable and this could have easily been about someone you know. Another thing I liked about this book was how Zeke was trying to keep Caliente Springs alive as well as how him and Julia were trying to pull off the big wedding. I felt as if I was a part of the planning and celebration thanks to the detailed writing of the author. Her writing style was very easy to read. Just an enjoyable book all the way around. 

About the author:

Victoria Bylin writes contemporary and historical romances known for their realistic, relatable characters. Her work has finaled in contests such as the Carol Awards, the RITAs, and the RT Reviewers' Choice Award. A native of California, she and her husband now make their home in Lexington, Kentucky.

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Link here: https://promosimple.com/ps/9939

For more reviews and information check out Litfuse's Landing page:

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More Than A Promise by Ruth Logan Herne - Review/Guest Post/Giveaway

I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review

Published: February 23, 2016

Number of pages: 292

Genre: Christian Fiction

"My Three Sons"... Naughty sons, at that!... meets "Sarah, Plain and Tall" in this delightful marriage of convenience story that shows how amazingly inconvenient love... and life... can be!

Widower Matt Wilmot is in trouble. His boys are causing chaos and wreaking havoc, his former mother-in-law is threatening to sue for custody, his father just had heart surgery and their family company is liable for a huge balloon payment on a loan his father took out to expand the business the previous year. But rain and illness took their toll, and Matt is having a rough time spinning multiple plates in the air.


​But when he discovers Elle Drake next door, a woman with a wonderful hand at managing errant boys, cranky relatives, and frustrated men... Matt's world suddenly tips back into a more normal orbit. And when drastic measures are required, it's the girl next door who's there to save the day.

Elle Drake wanted nothing more than to create beautiful pottery and have a family, but when her millionaire husband publicly dumped the renowned artist for another woman, Elle moves back to Cedar Mills to start anew, the spinster artist with her big potting shed. But when her to-die-for good-looking neighbor thinks marriage is a good idea, Elle figures he's either crazy, desperate or right.

But a marriage of convenience can become its own conundrum, and when life takes sudden turns, can this marriage become all that they bargained for? And maybe more than a promise?

Purchasing Links:

AMAZON | B&N | CHRISTIANBOOK.COM

This is the first book that I have read by this author and it was an enjoyable book. I liked how the characters in this book were real people, they could have been anyone you know. The author's writing style was very nice and made the story flow easily. It was fun to watch as Matt and Elle get to know each other on a deeper level. The boys were great in offhandly playing a part in this without trying, but by being themselves. I found myself talking to both Elle and Matt telling them what to do. I just wanted them to be together as they seemed a good fit for each other. I loved how the boys were portrayed - it was just like all little boys I have known. I think that is the biggest thing I liked about this book. I said it once and will say it again. The characters were so real to life that it was easy to connect with them. 

Multi-published, bestselling author Ruth Logan Herne loves God, her family, her country, dogs, chocolate and coffee! A country gal with a heart for the big city, Ruthy likes nothing more than to write the kind of books she loves to read, and she's even more happy that now she gets paid to do it! She's been married for a Very Long Time and she and her husband Dave live on a small farm in upstate New York where lake effect snow buries them on a regular basis in winter. But that's all right... it gives her more time to write!

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I love to write.

I have always loved to write. First I loved to read, and then I wanted to make up my own stories. Tell my own tales.
Are all writers born this way?

I don’t know, but some are. I can see the creative urge in some of my children, and now my grandchildren. Some are storytellers. Some aren’t.

So then I think genetics, that long spiral, that double helix that repeats non-stop and sets us in motion. What part of that curling piece makes us artsy? Athletic? Musical? What parts feeds genius?
I’ve heard that the chasm separating the right from left brain is narrower in brilliant people. (Of course they have to be DEAD to prove that, so not too many volunteer their brains for a check on it until it’s well… Let’s just say it’s “late”….)

But what if it isn’t just spacing and selective genetics? What if there’s a subjective component of “nurture” or (in my case) “lack of nurture”?

Hi, I’m Ruthy and I love making up stories, but because I was born into a very poor, dysfunctional family, I think it was more than gifted genetic talent that spurred my goals.

I wanted to fix things. From the time I was young and realized our family had few happy endings, I wanted to create stories that erupt into a solid happy ending. I wanted, no, make that longed to show that happy endings don’t have to be obscure. They’re here, right here, at our fingertips if we’re willing to make the necessary choices. I wrapped my goals in faith and a solid work ethic and (as life often does) I met a number of left turns including six children, multiple jobs and a quiet push from God to be patient…

What choice did I have? But looking back, I see the path much more clearly now! Waiting to jump into the writing pool offered me the chance to hone a lot of life experience, on-the-job training for book research, a fun study of human nature, cute kids, brats and everything in between! I birthed children and helped birth dogs and calves. I’ve milked cows and processed fresh chickens! I’ve smoked bacon and grown just about every fruit and veggie you can imagine. I’ve worked as a billing clerk, a teacher’s aide with emotionally disturbed children, a waitress, a bridal consultant, a babysitter… gosh, so many nametag and hairnet jobs, I can’t list them all. But each one brought me a little more experience under my belt… and more story fodder!

I love to write, and I would encourage anyone who loves this craft to jump in. Do it! Don’t hesitate. When the time is right, go for it.

Writing can be learned. I’ve seen that often. But storytelling is often an inborn gift, so if that’s your talent? If that’s your inclination…. Do it.

This Erma Bombeck quote sits above my kitchen sink where I see it several times a day: “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and I could say, "I used everything that you gave me."

And that’s my goal. To use everything he gave me, making others smile. And when you read a “Ruthy” book… It’s my hope that’s exactly what you’ll do…. Smile and walk away a little big happier and more hopeful. And that’s a pretty sweet goal!

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