Sorrows to Dancing

You turned my wailing into dancing;
    you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy,

that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent.
    Lord my God, I will praise you forever.

-Psalm 30:11-12

Sometimes when I hear a tune, I can't stop my feet from moving; 

Not because I'm a dancer, but because God has placed a song on my heart.

Praise God He can turn my sorrows into dancing with his love and joy!

 

Life Compared to Algebra

1 Corinthians 2:9-13

However, as it is written:
“What no eye has seen,
    what no ear has heard,
and what no human mind has conceived”—
    the things God has prepared for those who love him—
these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. For who knows a person’s thoughts except their own spirit within them? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.  What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us. This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, explaining spiritual realities with Spirit-taught words.

Some things are hard to comprehend. 

My granddaughter and her friend

In high school, we split into groups according to what we wanted to do after we graduated. I was in the college prep program with specific classes assigned. The school required I take algebra 1 & 2 and geometry. I’m not ashamed to admit, I didn’t enjoy algebra or even begin to understand it. I felt frustrated because I couldn’t wrap my head around the concepts. I struggled through and managed to pass, but I still don’t enjoy math.

Life, compared to algebra, has proven to be much harder at times, but as a follower and believer in Jesus, I’ve been given the gift of the Holy Spirit. At times understanding the supernatural abilities of the Holy Spirit seems out of reach, yet the Spirit knows me and knows God better than anyone. The Spirit understands my needs, helps me navigate the world and keeps me on the path God created for me.

I love the words in 1 Corinthians 2:9; “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived—the things God has prepared for those who love him.” God has revealed through the Spirit the very life He has prepared for me. It sounds so simple, but without faith is so hard to comprehend. God had given his followers the Holy Spirit as a guide, a wisdom revealer, a prayer, and a caretaker. In faith, I trust the Holy Spirit to guide me and whisper to me what I need to know.

Even though I don’t understand the supernatural elements of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, I know the Three-in-One loves me and wants the best for me.

Trust the Holy Spirit’s lead.

The Timing of Our Lives

I love watching my flowers bloom throughout the spring and summer.

The perennials sprout and bud every year.

My first cone flower opened right on schedule.

God knows when each petal will unfold.

If He knows this about the flowers, how much more can we trust Him to know 

the timing for our lives?

 

Faith in the Fire

Daniel 3:16-18
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.”

The thermometer in the car screamed 102 degrees. 

In southwest Ohio, the temperatures are registering in the high nineties. We’ve had storms and electric out. My daughter’s family had no electric for almost twenty-four hours. So what did we do? We gathered at the pool and stayed cool. I am thankful we live in a place where I have the opportunity to swim with my kids and grands. When we left, Sara’s car registered 102.

In all of my almost 65 years, I’ve only had central air since we moved into the condo almost eight years ago. Up to then, I dealt with the heat in whatever way I could. Let’s just say, I’m not a summer person, especially in this heat. But I know as the seasons do, this will pass and before long cooler weather will grace Ohio.

During this oppressive heat, I’ve been reading the book of Daniel, and you can imagine my thoughts on the fiery furnace. Without reservation those brave young men, Shadrack, Meshach, and Abednego, did not fear the heat. They put their lives and hearts in God’s hands. That’s called faith.

We have a lot of negatives going on in our country and in the world. I can imagine the Christians in Ukraine are holding on to their faith for dear life. I love this line in Daniel: “the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. But even if he does not, we want you to know...  we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” These men believed God would deliver them, but even if He didn’t, they continued to have faith in the God they served even if He didn’t save them. They trusted God with their lives and knew He held their future in His hands.

I wonder if I have the faith they did. Can I keep the faith regardless of my circumstances? I pray the answer is yes. I want faith like the men in Daniel. A faith without doubt. I pray God strengthens my faith as I continue on my life’s path.

Have faith, God will see you through.

Romantic Fiction Book Review: Mulberry Hollow (A Riverbend Romance book 2) by Denise Hunter

Book Description:

Living life to the fullest always requires sacrifice.

Avery Robinson decided to be a physician after helplessly watching her mother lose a battle with a terrible disease. Now at risk of developing the same illness, Avery guards her heart from love. She’s driven to protect her loved ones as a workaholic doctor in the tiny mountain town of Riverbend Gap, North Carolina.

Contractor Wes Garrett is hiking the Appalachian trail, in memory of the man who died saving his life, when an illness racks his body. After an agonizing fifteen-mile hike to Avery’s clinic, he collapses on her doorstep. He recovers to find himself in debt again, this time to a beautiful doctor.

When he decides to help her renovate a rundown carriage house, the obstacles to their attraction sprout like weeds—starting with the woman waiting for Wes at the end of the trail. Will he be able to relinquish the debt he owes his best friend? And will Avery find the courage to risk everything for love?

The second book in Denise Hunter’s popular Riverbend Romance series explores what it might be like to live fearlessly and free.

My Thoughts:
I enjoyed reading Mulberry Hollow. Denise Hunter digs into the souls of her characters and discovers their needs, personalities, and quirks. Dr. Avery Robinson has thrown herself into her work at the clinic she opened, to keep her mind off of the future she believes is inevitable. Wes Garrett wants to do right by his friend, but has given himself high expectations. The two meet and their adventures begin in the beautiful setting of the Appalachian Mountains. I admire both characters for their integrity and desire to help other people. Hunter has penned a sweet romance that heals and opens doors to freedoms neither Avery nor Ross dreamed possible. Mulberry Hollow is a clean read with undertones of faith and hope. If you enjoy a good romance, you can't go wrong with Denise Hunter's stories. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Contemporary Romance Review: In Search of a Prince by Toni Shiloh

Book Description:

It seems like a dream come true . . . until it forces her to question everything.

Brielle Adebayo is fully content teaching at a New York City public school and taking annual summer vacations with her mother to Martha's Vineyard. But everything changes when her mom drops a bombshell--Brielle is really a princess in the island kingdom of Ọlọrọ Ilé, off the coast of Africa, and she must immediately assume her royal position, since the health of her grandfather, the king, is failing.

Distraught by all the secrets her mother kept, Brielle is further left spinning when the Ọlọrọ Ilé Royal Council brings up an old edict that states she must marry before her coronation, or the crown will pass to another. Brielle is uncertain if she even wants the throne, and with her world totally shaken, where will she find the courage to take a chance on love and brave the perils a wrong decision may bring?

My Thoughts:
I can't say enough good things about this delightful book, In Search of a Prince. Can you imagine waking up to find out you're a princess and you had no idea? Brielle did exactly that. Her mom reveals a secret she's kept for over twenty years, and that's where the story blossoms. The island Brielle travels to is lush, beautiful, and filled with interesting characters, including the grandfather she's never met. Shiloh's writing is stellar. She takes the reader into life on the island with perfect description, wonderful characters (and some not so wonderful,) a satisfying romance, and the incredible journey of faith Brielle takes as she seeks God's plan for her. If you enjoy excellent writing and a wonderful story, you'll want to read In Search of a Prince.

Consider the Creator

Job 37:5-7

God’s voice thunders in marvelous ways;
    he does great things beyond our understanding.
He says to the snow, ‘Fall on the earth,’
    and to the rain shower, ‘Be a mighty downpour.’
So that everyone he has made may know his work,
    he stops all people from their labor.

Snow sprinkled the ground like powdered sugar.

Winter arrived in southwest Ohio in the form of an ice and snow storm. For three days moisture froze and covered our little corner of the world. Rain moistened the ground, sleet piled on sidewalks and streets, ice pinged the windows and coated the tree limbs, then the snow fell. Flake after flake tumbled from the sky and a beautiful white wonderland stopped everyday life. Schools closed, businesses shut their doors early, and the roads turned dicey. For a moment in time life slowed down.

On those days, as I walked Rosey and Olive over the frozen tundra, I stood in awe at the wonder of God's artistry. If you don't know, I'm a winter person. I love to walk in the snow and see the earth coated in pure white. As I trekked along the snowy street, I thanked God for the beauty.

The snow will melt in a few days as the temperature rises, but the wonder I experienced will stay with me. This morning I picked up my Bible and read from the book of Job. The seventh verse struck me as one I need to remember. When the weather changes, a downpour opens from the clouds, a snowstorm hits the area, or the humidity hits an all time high, God wants us to stop and consider Him.

Not too long ago, we all had to stay at home due to the pandemic. Perhaps that time, when we were all stopped in our tracks, was a time to better know God and His work. A time to ponder God's power and glory.

Even as I walked in the snow and gazed in awe at His works, I knew God gave me the time to recognize Him as the Creator.

Take time to see God's creation and the power of His mighty hand.

Historical Fiction: Ever Constant (The Treasure of Nome series, book 3) by Tracie Peterson & Kimberley Woodhouse

Book Description:

She's always determined to be the stable, reliable one. But now her commitment may destroy her.

On the surface, Whitney Powell is happy working with her sled dogs and welcoming the new additions to her family through her sisters' marriages and an upcoming birth. But her life is full of complications, including an estranged father, that have her on the edge of losing control. Growing up, she was the strong sister, and she can't give that up now.

When villagers in outlying areas come down with a horrible sickness, Dr. Peter Cameron turns to Whitney and her dogs for help navigating the deep snow, and they become close while ministering to the sick together. Peter has long recognized her finer qualities but is troubled by the emotions and secrets she keeps buried within. He wants to help but wonders if she is more of a risk than his heart can take.

As sickness spreads throughout Nome and another man courts Whitney, she and Peter will discover that sometimes it is only in weakness that you can find strength.

My Thoughts:
When I chose to read Ever Constant, I didn't realize it was book three of a series. It didn't matter, as I read, I learned enough about the other two books to understand this beautifully written story. Whitney is an amazing and strong woman, who raises sled dogs. She had taken care of her family for years and tried her best to always be strong. Dr. Peter Cameron is the perfect hero, flaws, fears and all. The two of them try so hard to make up for past mistakes while heading into difficult situations. I read the story during a winter snowstorm here in Ohio. While I can't imagine living in Alaska in the early 1900s, tromping out in the snow with my dog brought a better picture of what life might have been like for them. Peterson and Woodhouse have created memorable, strong characters, addressed an addiction, showed family love, and amazing faith in this wonderful story of perseverance. If you enjoy historical fiction with heart, you'll like Ever Constant. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Shine like Stars

Philippians 2:14-16a
Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life.

Sparkle like stars.

Each year I pray about a word to focus on for the year. In 2021, I considered the word gratitude and how much I had to be thankful for. That will stay with me in 2022, even as God brings the word light to my mind. For me, light brings so many pictures: the sun, the moon, the stars, a lighthouse, a candle, a lantern, twinkling lights, but most of all Jesus, who is the bright light in the dark.

Tim and I visited Carter Caves many years ago. In one of the caves the guide turned off his lantern, and we couldn't see our hands in front of our faces. Darkness blanketed the cave until the guide lit the lantern again. I don't know about you, but I didn't like the veil of darkness. It unnerved me, but the light from the lamp brought comfort and hope.

Too often the world seems dark—shadowed by evil, fear, grief, and sadness. Many folks fight through addiction, anxiety, and depression. Jesus calls me to be the light in a dark world, to shine hope and love on the people around me. How do I do that? I pour out the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

To shine like stars, I need to glow brighter than the darkness that shrouds our world. To shine like stars, I need to shine like Jesus and show the hope he offers to everyone I meet. I admit, I'm not always good at shining like a star. Because I'm an introvert, sometimes I have to climb out of my protective shell, consider the needs of others, put a smile on my face, and offer hope. I pray God helps me to light the way to Him.

This year, I want to shine like the stars.

Be the light and seek the Light in this new year.

Time Crossing Romance: Never Leave Me (Waters of Time #2) by Jody Hedlund

Book Description:
In the last stages of a genetic disease, Ellen Creighton has decided to live out her remaining days at the estate of her longtime friend Harrison Burlington. Harrison cares deeply for Ellen, but as a wheelchair-bound paraplegic, he's never allowed himself to get serious in a relationship. However, he's desperately trying to save her by finding the holy water that is believed to heal any disease.

When he locates two flasks, Ellen refuses to drink one of them because she believes the holy water killed her sister and father. In an effort to convince her to take it, Harrison ingests the contents first, and when Ellen witnesses the effects, she can no longer deny the power of the substance in the bottles. Dangerous criminals are also seeking the holy water, and Ellen soon learns they will go to any lengths to get the powerful drug--including sending her back into the past to find it for them.

My Thoughts:
I've read both of Jody Hedlund's Waters of Time books. Book 1, Come Back to Me and book 2 Never Leave Me are both such interesting and fascinating stories. They should be read in order. Hedlund's imagination and research meet up and explode into stories I would never have dreamed of. The whole concept of time-travel seems so out of reach, yet she writes with such authority, I wanted to believe Ellen and Harrison could make the journey. With danger lurking and incredible circumstances, Ellen draws courage from within as Harrison's faith carries them through the unbelievable. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Faith Before Fear

Luke 1:35-38
The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail.”

“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.

I love holding and rocking babies.

In 2009, we were thrilled to find out we'd have three grandbabies born. Max arrived in October, Eli in time for Christmas, and Zeke the following January. Our hearts overflowed with joy as we met each of these baby boys. As a grandma, I fell in love with them, just as I had my own babies. The boys have or will soon turn twelve, and they are lights in our lives. All so different from one another, yet so precious.

The mamas got to share in the joy and challenges of carrying a child, at the same time. Sisters, Sara and Maggie, expected Eli and Zeke with only five weeks separating their birth. What an exciting time for this grandma.

Cousins, Elizabeth and Mary, shared the experience of pregnancy and childbirth. Wow were their circumstances exceptional. Elizabeth was considered old, yet God blessed her with a child. Mary was a young virgin, yet God gave her a baby. Their stories are unusual and perhaps hard to believe. Yet the writers of the Bible tell the stories with clarity, truth, and hope.

I love Mary's humility as she accepts the angel's pronouncement. "For no word from God will ever fail." Her response says it all, "I am the Lord's servant." Mary believed. She trusted God and put her faith in front of her fear because she knew God never fails.

Can you imagine being in Mary's circumstance? Would people ridicule her? Would they punish her? She had more at stake than we might today. The Jewish laws were strict, and she could be severely punished for being unwed and pregnant. But she put her faith before her fear and trusted God with her life.

Elizabeth was old and her husband made mute before John the Baptist was born. Did Elizabeth hide with embarrassment or did she trust? She believed God blessed her, and she jumped with joy. She too put faith before fear.

This Christmas as we celebrate Jesus, put faith before fear and share about the babe who grew to be a man. Not just any man, but Jesus the Savior of this broken world.

Have the hard conversations and talk about the hope we have in Jesus.

Thankful for Freedom

2 Corinthians 3:15-17
Even to this day when Moses is read, a veil covers their hearts. But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.

The children waved flags in their honor.

Mrs. Blankenship's art classes made this beautiful flag.

On Veteran's Day, I had the privilege to watch the program the school put on to honor the men and women who served in the military. The children lined the halls and waved flags and the vets marched around the school. The scene brought back memories of an old-fashioned, small-town celebration. After the march, the children gathered in the gym. My daughter, Sara, sang The National Anthem, then the men spoke about their time in the military. A student from each class got to ask a question and hear the responses. I admit at times I had tears and chills.

One of the gentlemen in the group was a very special guest. Former Superintendent William Bick, who the school is named for, spoke to the students. At ninety-eight years old, he told them he served in WW2. What a treasure to have met this honorable veteran.

All the veterans who spoke represented the freedom they fought for and the safety they defended for our country. They gave their time to protect our freedom.

My dad served in WW2, my husband as an Air Force Reservist, my brothers in the National Guard. I've always had great respect for our military.

Our American freedom is not the only freedom we have. Believers and followers of Jesus hold a freedom that can never be taken away. When we receive the Holy Spirit, we also gain freedom from sin through repentance, freedom to live a life following the Savior, and freedom from the world. No matter what goes on around me, I know Jesus is with me and He comforts me.

I thank God for the veterans and military persons who serve, and I thank God for the One who gave His life as a sacrifice for our sins. Jesus loves us so much. He wants us to have the freedom He offers, the freedom to love, forgive, and hope.

On Thanksgiving, give thanks for our military and for Jesus, the one who sets us free.

His Light Shines in the Darkness

John 1:4-5
In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

I like that extra hour of sleep when we fall back.

In the fall, I look forward to change. I love the way the trees show off their red, orange, and yellow leaves. In Ohio we have a lot of maple trees. They glow a golden yellow, and this year they have waved their dressy branches in the most spectacular way. The cooler weather reminds me winter peeks around the corner. Yes, I'm one who enjoys snow and bundling up or cozying in for the colder months. Many folks may disagree with me, but I like when the clocks fall back, and the hour of sleep I lost in the spring is restored. The morning light wakes me, and in the evening, I can huddle in our cozy home.

I've written about hygge before; the act of creating a comfortable and inviting environment inside when the weather or time change gives us darkness early. Part of the hygge experience is lighting candles, turning on lights to brighten the darkness, and cuddling in a warm blanket.

When God created the earth, He made day and night—darkness and light. As a believer, I experience a light, unlike the sun or a lamp. I don't welcome the darkness of the world, a shadow of sin which Satan brings with him. When that darkness falls, I cling to the light of Jesus. Psalm 119:105 says, "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." His word lights my way, and His light overcomes all darkness. Jesus is the hygge I want when the darkness of despair, worry, sin, or sorrow try to smother me. He is the light of the world. He alone brings peace and comfort in times of darkness. As the dark surrounds me, Jesus' light of love and grace illuminate my life.

Seek the light of Jesus.

Autumn Gold

Psalm 96:11-12
Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad;
 let the sea resound, and all that is in it.
Let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them;
 let all the trees of the forest sing for joy.

Autumn dresses up in gold, the richest season of the year. -Angie Weiland Crosby

I sat with my daughter at Trunk-or-Treat. In the corner of the parking lot, a tree glowed golden. The sun's light, as it faded from the sky, lit up the leaves as if gold dripped from the branches.

There is a rhythm to nature—a time to hold on and a time to let go. Leaves tumble to the ground as the trees let go. As I watch the branches drop their red and orange gems, I think about the things I want to let go. Fear, worry, doubt, guilt. I want to hold up my arms like tree branches, and let those things that plague me drop into God's hands.

After the leaves fall, the deciduous trees nap in winter. Their trunks and branches adjust to a time of rest and prepare for regrowth. I seem to remember God rested on the seventh day of creation, and Jesus said, "Come to me and I will give you rest."

I've let go of the negative burdens, now I can rest in Jesus' assurance, his promise of renewal and strength.

Let go—then rest sounds like good advice from the golden tree and from the Father who created me. Release the overwhelming and rest in his arms. Then in spring, or after renewal, rise stronger than before. With my arms up, I rejoice and sing with joy like the forest.

In this month of November, as I enjoy the vibrant colors and the cooler temperatures, I thank God for so much. The golden tree reminds me to look at creation and appreciate the incredible gifts God has given. Because of the rhythm of nature, I know the leaves will return after they rest for the winter. Because of God's promises, I know my faith is renewed daily.

Stop and appreciate God's creation, rest in his beauty, and thank Him.

Heirloom: Living and Leaving a Legacy of Faith by Kathy Howard

Book Description:
You WILL leave a spiritual legacy.
The faith, convictions, and sacrifices of those who lived before us help shape our lives today. What will your faith story build for your family?

Heirloom: Living and Leaving a Legacy of Faith tells stories of the past that will impact our faith today. These 52 heart-felt inspirations reveal the seeds of our faith―seeds that sprouted and took root, growing through the centuries to touch our lives today. Heirloom weaves these stories of faith and family history with Scripture, beautiful artwork, and ancestry research tips and techniques. Through these stories of persevering faith, you’ll discover the potential your story has to impact future generations.

Heirloom features 52 inspiring stories of faith from family research, history, and the Bible. It includes genealogy research tips to help you explore your own family tree. And, it also shares biblical and practical tips to inspire you to live out your faith in ways that will impact your family tomorrow. Heirloom encourages you to trace your heritage and document the stories of your ancestors.

My Thoughts:
Heirloom's gorgeous illustrations drew me in as I started reading the stories about the past that connect with the present. As I've gotten older, I've wondered what kind of a legacy I'd leave behind. Would my grandchildren know how much I love Jesus, or how much I love them? Would my writing leave a trail that leads to the heart of God? I hope so. As I read through the stories Kathy gathered, I enjoyed the memories and examples of faith. Kathy Howard has also added wonderful tips for genealogists and those interested in finding out more about family history. There is also a place in the back to write your own heirloom legacy story. If you enjoy stories that inspire, you'll want to order a copy of Heirloom. This would make a lovely gift as well. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.  

Historical Fiction: A View Most Glorious by Regina Scott (American Wonders Collection Book #3)

Book Description:
Reluctant socialite Coraline Baxter longs to live a life of significance and leave her mark on the world. When her local suffragette group asks her to climb Mount Rainier to raise awareness of their cause, she jumps at the chance, even though she has absolutely no climbing experience. If she can do it, any woman can do it. And after her mother issues an ultimatum--that Cora marry the man of her mother's choosing if she is not successful--Cora must do it. But she can't do it alone.

Noted mountain guide Nathan Hardee initially refuses to help Cora, but has a change of heart when he sees what is at stake. He knows enough about the man Cora's mother has chosen to know that the headstrong young woman should have nothing to do with him, much less marry him.

Climbing Rainier will require all of Cora's fortitude and will lead her and Nathan to rediscover their faith in God and humanity. These two loners make unlikely partners in righting a wrong and may just discover that only together is the view most glorious.

My Thoughts:
Coraline Baxter has spunk and purpose. She's level headed and adventurous, qualities that go against her society upbringing. Nathan Hardee is hardworking and thoughtful, yet he's fallen from the grace of society because of his father. Mount Ranier, the star of the story, shines as a beautiful creation to be respected and admired. When Coraline's step-father hires Nathan to lead them on a climb to the summit, Nathan isn't certain it's a good idea, but Coraline has plans and is determined. Coraline's mother adds another layer to this delightful story. She's a lady in the societal sense of the word. Her daughter climbing a mountain leaves her spinning. Oh, and there is a potential suiter for Coraline. Let me say, he's not the nicest guy in town. Regina Scott has spun an enjoyable tale of determination, faith, and courage. I've read all three of the American Wonders Collection and loved each one. If you enjoy adventure, history, and romance you'll love A View Most Glorious. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Faith then Understanding

Sometimes I try too hard to understand God's plan.

I'm learning to have faith, then be obedient and understand.

It's not easy, but it is a much better experience.

I have less stress and anxiety when I choose to believe and follow, 

instead of push and plod.

 

Historical Fiction Book Review: The Nature of a Lady (The Secrets of the Isles Book #1) by Roseanna M. White

Book Description:

1906

Lady Elizabeth "Libby" Sinclair, with her love of microscopes and nature, isn't favored in society. She flees to the beautiful Isles of Scilly for the summer and stumbles into the dangerous secrets left behind by her holiday cottage's former occupant, also named Elizabeth, who mysteriously vanished. 

Oliver Tremayne--gentleman and clergyman--is determined to discover what happened to his sister, and he's happy to accept the help of the girl now living in what should have been Beth's summer cottage . . . especially when he realizes it's the curious young lady, he met briefly two years ago, who shares his love of botany and biology. But the hunt for his sister involves far more than nature walks, and he can't quite believe all the secrets Beth had been keeping from him.

As Libby and Oliver work together, they find ancient legends, pirate wrecks, betrayal, and the most mysterious phenomenon of all: love.

My Thoughts:
I found the Isles of Scilly in The Nature of a Lady an interesting setting. When Libby escapes the rule laden society she lives in and takes her lady’s maid with her to the islands to explore the flora and fauna, she’s awakened to a life where she can be herself. This book is full of mystery, adventure and romance. With many layers and fascinating characters, Roseanna White has created a tale to savor. The descriptions gave me a feel for the islands, creating an image of life on the sea. The characters, from Oliver’s Mamm-wynn to Libby’s bossy brother, Bram, interlace to make a lovely story of family, faith, and love. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

A Dare to the Soul

Our eyes may only see the obvious.

Yet, our hearts long to see more.

God created us to see beyond ourselves and dare to choose faith.

 

Book Review: Blackberry Beach (Hope Harbor Novel #7) by Irene Hannon

Book Description:
Katherine Parker is on the cusp of having everything she ever wanted--fame, money, and acclaim. So why isn't she happy? In search of answers, she comes incognito to Hope Harbor on the Oregon coast for some R&R. Maybe in her secluded rental house overlooking the serene Pacific she'll be able to calm the storm inside.

Coffee shop owner Zach Garrett has found his niche after a traumatic loss--and he has no plans to change the life he's created. Nor does he want to get involved with his reticent new neighbor, whose past is shrouded in mystery. He's had enough drama to last a lifetime. But when Katherine and Zach are recruited to help rehab a home for foster children, sparks fly. And as their lives begin to intersect, might they find more common ground than they expected . . . and discover that, with love, all things are possible?

My Thoughts:
I absolutely love all the Hope Harbor books, and Blackberry Beach doesn’t disappoint. In book seven, Katherine arrives in Hope Harbor to relax and ponder her future. She’s on the verge of success and burn-out as she tries to figure out her future. Zach, Hope Harbor’s barista and coffee shop owner, considers his dating life, or the lack thereof. A kind young man with no prospects in sight meets Kat and the sparks fly, but she needs to hide her identity. As I read of Zach and Kat ambling along Blackberry Beach, I felt the ocean breeze and smelled the salt air of that magical place. Of course, Gladys, Floyd, and Charlie are back. They always bring fun and insight to the story. Hannon delves deep into her characters’ emotions as she ties in their backstory (including a story about Zach’s aunt) and spiritual threads. The references to other Hope Harbor residents who appeared in the first six books is like finding hidden treasure. If you haven’t read the series, Blackberry Beach can be read as a stand-alone. But the series is oh-so-good! If you enjoy reading entertaining and heartfelt stories, you’ll love this one. And I’ll warn you, you may be craving chocolate truffles by the end. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.