Tuesday, October 26, 2021
Fiction Book Review: A Flicker of Light by Katie Powner
For generations, the Jensens have raised their families in the small Montana town of Moose Creek, where gossip spreads faster than the wind. Yet some secrets need to be told.
When twenty-one-year-old Bea discovers she's pregnant on the heels of her husband losing his job, she's forced to admit she needs help and asks her dad for a place to stay. But past resentments keep her from telling him all that's going on.
Mitch Jensen is thrilled to have a full house again, though he's unimpressed with Bea's decisions: dropping out of college, marrying so young--and to an idealistic city kid, of all things. Mitch hopes to convince Bea to return to the path he's always envisioned for her, but she's changed since her mom died. And he refuses to admit how much he's changed, too, especially now that he might be losing his mother as well.
Grandma June is good at spinning stories, but there's one she's never told. Now that her mind is starting to fade, her time to tell it is running out. But if she reveals the truth before her memories are gone forever, the Jensen family will never be the same.
My Thoughts:
A Flicker of Light is a beautiful story filled with hope, heartache, and possibilities. Mitch Jensen's heart still aches for his wife, who passed away. Bea and her hubby need to start over and figure out their future, with a baby-to-be in tow. Rand wants the best for his wife, whose mind is fading. Grandma June throws an unexpected twist into the story as she begins to forget. The characters and their stories found a place in my heart as I read this heartrending story. I love the next-door neighbor, and Mitch's friend, the pastor. They added so much to this already wonderful story. Katie Powner knows how to write a lovely story. The spiritual thread and family ties blend together beautifully. If you enjoy a good story filled with heart, read A Flicker of Light. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Monday, September 6, 2021
Meet Deena Adams
I'd like to welcome award winning writer, Deena Adams, to my blog. She's been a great encouragement to me on my writing journey through her Facebook group—MARATHON. If you’re a Christian Fiction writer, she’d love for you to join the group! Click here for the link, and be sure to answer the membership question.
Deena, I
love that you focus on hope in your writing and in your life. What motivates
you to have such hope?
Hi, Penny. Thanks so much for hosting me on your blog! I believe hope is as necessary to life as air and water, and genuine hope comes through Christ alone.
I’ve
experienced some rough times over the years and every time I felt hopeless, I
knew I had to shift my focus back to the Lord. I think about the story of Peter
in the Bible. When his eyes were on Jesus, he walked on the water, but when he
looked at the storm raging around him, he sank.
Keeping my
eyes on Jesus and believing God’s promises is where my hope comes from and is
the only way to not only survive the hard times, but to find joy in the
journey.
Women’s
fiction is probably my favorite—and it’s what I write—because I love stories
that tackle gritty, true-to-life issues and focus on the character’s spiritual
transformation. Of course, I love to be entertained when I read, but I don’t
read for pure enjoyment alone, but to be challenged in my faith.
The beauty of God’s work in a person’s mess and bringing them to redemption and healing encourages me in my spiritual life. It helps me know I’m not alone and if others can have victory in their trials, maybe I can too.
You've
written a short story, Behind the Scenes. Can you tell us a bit about
the story and the novel you are working on?
Behind the Scenes is a prequel to my novel and features the childhood story of Clayton, my novel’s hero. The short story opens with seven-year-old Clayton searching the house for his parents and realizing they’ve left him home alone again. He tells no one when his parents leave him because he’s afraid of being taken to a terrible place, like kid jail or an orphanage.
Camille and
Raymond Richards are medical missionaries who work at a nearby clinic. As they
walk the roads of a poor community in the Mississippi Delta area of Memphis,
Tennessee, she senses God may have more in store for them than their current
ministry.
While
passing out toys to children, they meet Clayton, and Camille is immediately
drawn to him. She envisions him as their son, but keeps that to herself because
that’s just crazy. He has parents, and she’s pregnant with their first child.
Their paths cross several times, intensifying Camille’s prayers for the boy.
You’ll have
to read the story to hear how God works behind the scenes and find out their
journey’s outcome.
In the novel
I’m working on, Clayton is twenty-eight, loves Jesus, and works as a behavioral
psychologist and homeless shelter manager. But he’s still single and longs to
get married and have a family.
He meets
Amanda Wright, who is a hot mess. She has a sordid past she keeps buried at all
costs because when she told her mayor husband her secret, he stormed out angry
and died in an accident.
Amanda’s
abusive stepfather shows up, threatening to expose her past unless she gives
him money. She agrees to his demands but determines to pay penance for her past
sins, protect innocent children from the childhood she endured, and honor her
late husband’s community service legacy by becoming a court-appointed special
advocate for foster children.
She and
Clayton meet and learn they are working on the same court case. As their lives
intertwine, a shelter resident uncovers a link to Amanda’s past through a
carved angel keepsake, and Amanda is thrust headlong into the past she seeks to
escape.
Aspects of
foster care, adoption, addictions, abuse, abortion, death, and an interracial
relationship bring real issues to the surface. You’ll find God’s love, grace
and forgiveness throughout and, of course, hope.
I’ve worked
on this story for the past three years and have fallen in love with these
characters and their journey. I hope readers will too.
I've read Behind the Scenes. It's a wonderful, uplifting story readers will enjoy. I look forward to reading your work-in-progress. How can folks get a copy of Behind the Scenes?
Thanks so
much for your kind words. I’m so glad you enjoyed Behind the Scenes. I offer
the story free as a thank you to my newsletter subscribers. The Hope Collective
newsletter contains lots of hope-filled fiction content and giveaways and goes
out once a month, so it won’t overwhelm your email inbox. Readers who are
interested can subscribe here.
You've won some awards. Can you tell us a bit about those and why it's important for writers to enter contests?
Contests not
only build a writer’s confidence when we place or win and give us a positive
addition to our writing resume, but the feedback and critique from experienced
authors and other professionals is invaluable in helping us grow and better
learn the craft.
With no
idea what I was doing, I started writing my first novel in the fall of 2018
during Nanowrimo. In about three months, I had finished the first, very messy
and way too long, draft. A couple of months later, I signed up for my
first writer’s conference and entered their contest for unpublished writers. To
say it shocked me to win second place is an understatement.
I met with
an agent at that conference who looked at a sample of my writing and encouraged
me to keep entering contests. His praise for my writing, and the second-place
win, gave me confirmation to keep moving forward and keep entering contests.
In the fall
of 2019, I was a double finalist and winner of the ACFW First Impressions
contest, another shocker.
I entered multiple contests in 2020 and didn’t place in any of them. It was a discouraging year in a lot of areas of my life, so maybe God allowed me to be a Genesis finalist in 2021 for a boost to keep plugging onward in this publishing journey.
Where can
people find out more about you?
Social media
is great, and I love interacting with people there, but because of the
algorithms, most of my followers and friends never see my posts. The best way
to learn more about me and keep up with my writing journey is through my
website and newsletter. If you’re interested in connecting, you can find and
follow me at the links below.
Thanks for having me on your blog, Penny. I appreciate your support and friendship. God bless you and your readers!
Newsletter
and/or Blog Sign up
As a Jesus girl for more than thirty years, Deena understands how important hope is to daily life. That’s why she’s passionate about inspiring others through writing hope-filled fiction and highlighting other Christian authors on her blog.
Deena is an active member of ACFW and two Virginia writer groups, board member of ACFW Virginia, founder of the Marathon online writer’s group, 2019 Foundations contest finalist, 2019 First Impressions contest double finalist and winner, and 2021 Genesis contest finalist.
She lives with her husband near the coast in beautiful Virginia. When she’s not writing, reading, or serving in her church, you’ll find her hanging out with family and friends and doting on her seven grandchildren.
Monday, August 2, 2021
Historical Fiction Review: The Librarian's Journey: 4 Historical Romances
Book Description:
A brave fight for literacy during the Great Depression
Part of FDR’s New Deal was the Works Progress Administration, which funded the Pack Horse Library Initiative. Ride along with four book-loving women who bravely fight for literacy in remote communities during the Great Depression by carrying library books via horseback. Will their efforts be rewarded by finding love in the process?
Love’s Turning Page by Cynthia Hickey
1936, Ozark Mountains
Grace Billings jumped at the chance to be a traveling librarian, but she didn’t anticipate the long days of work, the intense poverty, or the handsome new schoolteacher whose love for the mountain people surpasses even her own.
In This Moment by Patty Smith Hall
1936, Pine Mountain, Georgia
Forced out of her nursing job due to budget cuts, Ruth Sims applies for a position with the Pack Horse Library incentive, only to discover she must go to the one place she swore never to return. The children instantly steal her heart with their thirst for books, and she’s happy in her post until she meets their teacher, Will Munroe—the man who broke her heart.
Book Lady of the Bayou by Marilyn Turk
1936, Mississippi
Forced out of her comfort zone, Lily Bee Davis travels by horse or boat taking books to remote areas. When she meets little Evie and her reclusive father at a dilapidated plantation house, she is drawn by their losses and longs to draw them out into life again.
The Lawman and the Librarian by Kathleen Y’Barbo
1936, Kentucky
Lottie Trent connects with a backwoods bully’s wife by secretly carrying messages for her in exchange for books. FBI agent Clayton Turnbow is on the trail of a criminal gang and discovers the packhorse librarian maybe a key member.
My Thoughts:
I enjoy reading about the women who carried books into the mountains to help
their communities. They traversed rough terrain, sometimes on a horse, others
on a mule. These four stories give us a snapshot of what they went through
while entertaining us with a romantic tale. I enjoyed the stories set in the Appalachian
Mountains so much. The story set in Mississippi made me shiver when Lily Bee
goes into the swamplands to deliver books. All four stories feature a strong
female character who is determined to help with the literacy of her community.
I particularly liked The Lawman and the Librarian. Lottie and Clayton have
a certain chemistry that made me want to read more. If you enjoy historical
romance and stories of brave women, you'll enjoy The Librarian's Journey.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review
are completely my own.
Sunday, August 1, 2021
Fiction Book Review: The Nature of Small Birds: A Novel by Susie Finkbeiner
Book Description:
In 1975, three thousand children were airlifted out of Saigon to be adopted
into Western homes. When Mindy, one of those children, announces her plans to
return to Vietnam to find her birth mother, her loving adopted family is
suddenly thrown back to the events surrounding her unconventional arrival in
their lives.
Told through three strong voices in three compelling timelines, The Nature of Small Birds is a hopeful story that explores the meaning of family far beyond genetic code.
My Thoughts:
I thoroughly enjoyed The Nature of Small Birds. Susie Finkbeiner
has written this family story of love from three distinct points of view. She
chose wisely as we hear the voices of Dad, Mom, and sister to Mindy, the lovely
young lady they adopted into their family. With little knowledge of the
adoption process, I opened this book with hope of reading a great story. Through
a group of flawed people who choose to love each other warts and all, I found a
page-turning story filled with hope. Mindy's story is beautiful, while at the
same time sorrowful. Finkbeiner does a remarkable job weaving different time
periods (1975, 1988, & 2013) together through these distinct voices. During
and after the Vietnam War many terrible things happened, perhaps the blessing
was saving the children. I hope you'll read The Nature of Small Birds,
if for no other reason than it's a beautiful story filled with hope. I received a complimentary copy of this book.
Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Tuesday, July 20, 2021
Fiction Book Review: Beyond the Tides (Prince Edward Island Shores Book #1) by Liz Johnson
Book Description:
When Meg Whitaker's father decides to sell the family's lobster-fishing
business to her high school nemesis, she sets out to prove she should inherit
it instead. Though she's never had any interest in running the small fleet--or
even getting on a boat due to her persistent seasickness--she can't stand to
see Oliver Ross take over. Not when he ruined her dreams for a science
scholarship and an Ivy League education ten years ago.
Oliver isn't proud of what he did back then. Angry and broken by his father walking
out on his family, he lashed out at Meg--an innocent bystander. But owning a
respected fishing fleet on Prince Edward Island is the opportunity of a
lifetime, and he's not about to walk away just because Meg wants him to.
Meg's father has the perfect solution: Oliver and Meg must work the business
together, and at the end of the season, he'll decide who gets it. Along the
way, they may discover that their stories are more similar than they thought .
. . and their dreams aren't what they expected.
My Thoughts:
I’ve read several of Liz Johnson’s books, and this is the best one yet. At
first, I wasn’t sure if I liked Meg, but once Meg and Oliver are thrown
together their banter and the tension between them makes for an entertaining tale—along
with their family stories. I love how Meg’s strong character softens when it comes
to her parents. And Oliver’s determination to overcome his family’s history is
inspiring. The setting is fantastic. I found myself drawn into the lobster
business on Prince Edward Island and enjoying the trips out to set traps and
haul in the catch. Meg’s dad is a delight as he helps her mom in his gentle, caring
way. As soon as I would stop reading Beyond the Tides, I would miss the
characters and want to read more. Now that I’ve finished, I’m looking forward
to the next book in the series. Available August, 3, it’s a perfect end of
summer read. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed
in this review are completely my own.
Share to Twitter: Beyond the Tides by Liz Johnson
Monday, July 12, 2021
Fiction Review: Home Sweet Tiny Home by Melody Carlson
Kate Burrows has a life many would envy—a good job at a design firm, a huge house, beautiful memories of the late husband who gave her everything, and two grown kids doing well for themselves. But it’s all begun to ring hollow as she wanders around a house that’s too big for her. So when she gets caught up in binge watching a show all about tiny homes, something clicks—something that soon has Kate embarking on a whole new life.
Though some people call her crazy, she decides to quit her job and relocate to the small tourist town she and her husband always wanted to retire to, and to buy a tiny home of her own. The Lord seems to be paving the way, and she soon meets just the person she needs to help her get her dream going—and even growing! Hank Branson, architect and gentleman farmer, is quick to jump on board her dream to parcel some land off for tiny homes, and soon they have a community in the works.
But is Kate in over her head? How can she possibly uproot her whole life and chase dreams long dormant? Can Hank and his beautiful farm be as perfect as they seem? And what about their competition—the gregarious, confident Glen who won’t take no for an answer?
Kate may be moving into a tiny house…but it soon becomes clear she’s in for a big adventure.
My Review:
I love Melody Carlson’s stories. Home Sweet Tiny Home is right up there with my favorites. With humor and compassion Carlson tells the story of change in a mature woman’s life after her husband has passed away and her children are grown. I love Kate’s spunk and her willingness to dive into a new venture. Hank is a sweetheart and Glen is a little too confident. And then there is Natalie… This is a funny, warm read you’ll enjoy. I love that Carlson has written a story about older men and women. And I enjoyed the tiny house aspect. If you like light reads with a fun twist, you’ll love this one. I purchased my copy. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Thursday, June 17, 2021
Book Review: This Time Around: Three Romances by Denise Hunter, Melissa Ferguson, & Kathleen Fuller
Book Description:
For lovers of happily ever afters—this collection of three light and sweet romance stories will sweep you off your feet.
In A Summer Detour by Denise Hunter, you’ll meet
free-spirited Allie Adams, who undertakes a road trip to deliver her
grandparents’ newly restored ’57 Chevy in time for their fiftieth anniversary
party . . . along with Luke Fletcher, the former boy-next-door who callously
crushed her heart.
Pining for You by Melissa Ferguson invites you to a
cozy Virginia mountain town where Christmas tree farm owner Theo Watkins III
has the opportunity to drop everything for one weekend to play farmer and
potentially win back the heart of his childhood best friend, Skye Fuller. Only
problem? He’s the kind of man who drives a Tesla, not a tractor.
Last but not least, He Loves Me; He Loves Me Not by
Kathleen Fuller will transport you to a small town in Arkansas where
thirty-five-year-old Sophie Morgan has spent years making her flower shop a
success. But when this workaholic decides she’s ready to make time for dating
again, she finds herself with two handsome men vying for her attention.
Whether your perfect romance involves rows and rows of
Fraser firs and white pines glinting in the moonlight, childhood love that
never ends, or a second chance at a happily ever after, you’re sure to find a
story within this collection to warm your heart any day of the year.
My Thoughts:
If you are looking for a beach read, a lazy afternoon escape, or just a happy
ending, you’ll enjoy This Time Around. I reviewed this book, of three
romances, because I love Denise Hunter’s stories. And she did not disappoint. A
Summer Detour is delightful and fun as Allie and Luke try to get the star of
the story, a ’57 Chevy, to her grandparents’ party. Melissa Ferguson's story, Pining for You, made me laugh as Skye
and Theo, very opposite people, attempt to get to know one another again. Kathleen Fuller entertained
with Sophie and her jump back into the dating world in He Loves Me; He Loves
Me Not. Each author has a unique voice and a charming story to tell. Grab this
three-in-one and sit back and enjoy. I received a complimentary copy of this
book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Thursday, June 3, 2021
Time-Travel Fiction Review: Come Back to Me (Waters of Time Book #1) by Jody Hedlund
Book Description:
The ultimate cure that could heal any disease? Crazy.
That's exactly what research scientist Marian Creighton has always believed
about her father's quest, even if it does stem from a desire to save her sister
Ellen from the genetic disease that stole their mother from them. But when her
father falls into a coma after drinking a vial of holy water believed to
contain traces of residue from the Tree of Life, Marian must question all of
her assumptions. He's left behind tantalizing clues that suggest he's crossed
back in time. Insane. Until Marian tests his theories and finds herself in the
Middle Ages during a dangerous peasant uprising.
William Durham, a valiant knight comes to Marian's rescue and offers her
protection . . . as his wife. The longer Marian stays in the past, the more she
cares about William. Can she ever find her father and make it back to the
present to heal her sister? And when the time comes to leave, will she want to?
Bestselling author Jody Hedlund is your guide down the twisting waters of time
to a volatile era of superstition, revolts, and chivalry in this suspenseful
story.
My Thoughts:
Wow! I’ve never read a book like Come Back to Me. I’ve read time travel,
but not with the intricate details and constant danger Jody Hedlund writes. One
thing I love about this story is the imagination Hedlund uses to set up the
story, but also the hope threaded throughout the book that life can be better,
miracles still happen, and love remains as a healing balm. Marian moves between
two worlds, very different times, yet she carries with her a faith and
conviction to help her father and heal her sister. William Durham is the
ultimate medieval knight, he’s brave, caring, and would do anything to keep his
people safe. If you enjoy time travel stories with twists, you’ll love this
story. I listened to Jody Hedlund in an interview. The research she’s done gives
the story depth and believability. I received a complimentary copy of this
book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Tuesday, February 2, 2021
Time-Slip Novel Review: Roots of Wood and Stone (Sedgwick County Chronicles) by Amanda Wen
Book Description:
Abandoned at birth, her family roots a mystery, historical museum curator Sloane Kelley has dedicated her life to making sure others know theirs. When a donor drops off a dusty old satchel, she doesn't expect much from the common artifact . . .until she finds real treasure inside: a nineteenth-century diary. Now she's on the hunt to find out more.
Garrett Anderson just wanted to clean out his grandmother's historic but
tumbledown farmhouse before selling it to fund her medical care. With her
advancing Alzheimer's, he can't afford to be sentimental about the family home.
But his carefully ordered plan runs up against two formidable obstacles: Sloane,
who's fallen in love with both the diaries and the house, and his own heart,
which is irresistibly drawn to Sloane.
A century and a half earlier, motherless Annabelle Collins embarks with her
aunt and uncle on the adventure of a lifetime: settling the prairies of
Sedgwick County, Kansas. The diaries she left behind paint a portrait of life,
loss, and love--and a God who faithfully carries her through it all. Paging
through the diaries together takes Sloane and Garrett on a journey they never
could have planned, which will change them in ways they never imagined.
My Thoughts:
Roots of Wood and Stone is a pleasure to read. Whether I was reading Sloane and
Garrett’s story (modern day) or Annabelle’s (in the 1800s), the chapters are filled
with beautiful words, descriptions you can sink into, and deep emotional
insight. The rich history of the house and land drew me in as much as the
people. Amanda Wen has taken two stories and intertwined them in unexpected
ways. This a perfect winter read that will warm your heart. I love the faith
thread that runs between the two eras. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions
expressed in this review are completely my own.
Friday, January 29, 2021
Fiction Book Review: From This Moment: A Novel by Kim Vogel Sawyer
Book Description:
A lost ring
brings together two wounded souls—
Growing up in the foster care system, Jase Edgar always dreamed of one day
starting his own family. But his fiancée's untimely death shattered his plans.
Moving to Kansas and serving as a youth minister should be a fresh start, but
he can't seem to set aside his doubts about God's goodness long enough to
embrace his new life.
Newly-appointed church custodian, Lori Fowler is battling her own challenges. Her strained relationship with her father and her struggles with overeating convince her she's not worthy enough for love. When an Amish weaver enlists their help locating the owner of a ring found among the donated clothing she uses as fabric, Jase and Lori find themselves drawn to each other. But will they be able to release the past and move forward from this moment into a joyful future?
My
Thoughts:
There are so
many wonderful people in this story—including the minister and his wife and
Kenzie, the Amish weaver. Lori is a delightful character who suffers from overeating, which I rarely see in a novel. Kim Vogel Sawyer addressed Lori’s issues in the
most beautiful, hopeful way. Jase is
struggling with his faith, even as he takes on the role of youth minister in a
small church. I love his story and his personality. Despite his faith struggle,
he pushes forward. From This Moment is a refreshing read that takes me
back to the basics of my faith, the church I grew up in, and wonderful memories
of the youth group activities I enjoyed. If you like sweet stories with lovable
characters pick up a copy of From This Moment. I received a
complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are
completely my own.
Tuesday, October 20, 2020
Fiction Review: Autumn Skies (A Bluebell Inn Romance Book 3) by Denise Hunter
Denise finished this series with an amazing story of courage, love, and mystery. Grace may be young, but she's had to grow up and help her siblings with the inn. Wyatt carries an air of mystery and sorrow. While Grace's sister and brother are busy with their own lives, Grace wants nothing more than to get her business up and running. In the mean time, Wyatt's story tugs at Grace's heart. As the story unfolds I was drawn into the Blue Ridge Mountains and the quaint town of Bluebell. The inn is lovely and the setting beautiful. If you have read the first two in the series, you can't miss Autumn Skies. If you haven't read any of them, start with book one. This can be a stand alone, but you don't want to miss out on Molly and Levi's stories. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Sunday, September 27, 2020
Book Review: Finding Wings (Chandler Sisters Book 3) by Deborah Raney
Taking care of her family is a blessing, but Britt thought there would be more to life--like falling in love
Being the youngest of three sisters isn’t always easy for Britt Chandler, especially when her older sisters have successful lives and hers is still on hold. She put everything aside to care for her dying mother, but now their mother is gone. Just as her life finally has a chance to blossom, her sister is ordered on bed rest during a difficult pregnancy, and it looks like God is again calling Britt to be a family caregiver--and nothing more.
Rafe Stuart is unable to forgive himself for a childhood mistake that had grave repercussions. And no matter how many lives he saves now as a first responder, he can’t ever seem to do enough penance to free his soul from that decades-old tragedy. There definitely isn’t room in his wounded heart for love; it’s much too dangerous.
When these two struggling souls encounter each other, sparks fly. But they’re both scared the fire that might result could destroy them--and the others around them. How can they begin to trust God to have the best for them and real purpose for their lives beyond what they’ve dreamed . . . or feared?
My Review:
I love Britt's story. As always, Deborah Raney has taken on some difficult topics and created a beautiful story filled with hope. I've read all three of the Chandler Sisters books. Finding Wings resonates with me the most, perhaps because I'm the youngest child or because Britt is searching for her purpose. Deb tapped into the realities of being the youngest daughter and brought that to life. The family contrasts in the story add depth. I cheered for Britt and Rafe as they struggle to make time to get to know each other and care for family. There's also a beautiful surprise for Jo, Britt's sister. If you haven't read the series, I highly recommend it. Once you read Finding Wings, you'll want to know Phee and Jo's stories, too. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Wednesday, September 23, 2020
Book Review: Until I Met You (Restoring Heritage Book #2) by Tari Faris
Book Description:
When she hears that the small town of Heritage, Michigan, is looking for a new
librarian, Libby Kingsley jumps at the opportunity. Little did she know the
library is barely more than a storage closet stuffed with dusty, outdated
books. What the community really needs is a new building. But the only funds
available are those being channeled into the new town square, and the landscape
architect in charge of the project wants nothing to do with her plans.
All Austin Williams wants to do is get the town square project finished so he
can do right by the family business and then extricate himself from the town
that reveres the brother who cost him so much. But the local media and the
town's new librarian seem to be conspiring against him at every turn. Will the
determined bookworm find her way into his blueprints--and possibly even his
heart?
My Review:
I love Tari Faris's books. This is her second in the series and her second book
published. Tari's fresh, fun voice gives a unique flare to her characters. In Until I Met You, we see the flaws, warts
and all, as the emotions fly. Libby has issues, but she also has a heart for
the new project she's faced with. Austin expects too much of everyone,
including himself. The town of Heritage is the perfect stage for Tari's
stories. I love what they are doing with the library as they make the town come
to life. Along with Libby and Austin's stories, we get a bonus. Olivia, Libby's
roommate and Nate, Austin's brother, have their own relationship to work
through. If you are looking for a fresh new voice in inspirational fiction,
pick up a copy of Until I Met You. If
you haven't read it, you'll also want to read the first Restoring Heritage
book, You
Belong With Me. I
received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review
are completely my own.
Thursday, September 10, 2020
Fiction Book Review: Callie (Ladies of Garfield book 1) and Terri (Ladies of Garfield book 2) by Sharon Srock
Book Description:
Callie
She can’t escape the mistakes of her past…
Callie Stillman has done everything she can to bury the memories of a tiny,
baby-sized coffin. She lives life one day at a time, basking in the love of a
good man and doting on her grandchildren. Until she crosses paths with a little
girl who is obviously in trouble—but tries to hide it.
They can’t trust anyone…
Iris and Samantha Evans are living on borrowed time. Deserted, orphaned,
betrayed, and deceived, they need rescuing in the worst way.
He’s praying for a miracle…
Steve Evans had his life changed by God. A reformed drug addict, he’s searching
for the family he abandoned ten years ago…
When Callie can no longer ignore the signs that Iris needs help, her
interference sends four people on a collision course that will force her to
face the past she’d rather forget.
Terri
She’s always longed for more…
Running a thriving daycare keeps Terri Hayes busy. Add a new foster daughter to
the mix and Terri shouldn’t have time to want more—but she does. At
twenty-nine, her biological clock is ticking away. When a busted pipe floods
her home, she finds temporary sanctuary in a basement apartment—one that just
happens to be owned by her long-time crush, single dad Steve Evans.
Is he ready to date again?
Steve is widower, a father of two teenaged girls, and a successful writer. His
life is full, but he wouldn’t mind exploring a romance with Terri. But when
lines of communication get crossed, the budding relationship grounds to a halt.
Two matchmakers to the rescue…
Iris and Samantha Evans want a stepmother and have set their sights on Terri.
Their matchmaking includes equal parts prayer and deception. Will their
scheming result in the wedding of their dreams, or will the harsh confrontation
between Steve and the parents of Terri’s foster child be an obstacle they can’t
overcome?
My
Review:
Sharon Srock writes books with heart. Callie is a woman troubled by an instance
that she thinks was her fault. Iris and Sam need a mentor. In this heartfelt book,
Sharon weaves a beautiful story. Inspirational and entertaining, she takes the
reader on a soul searching journey, with characters who live authentic lives. I
went on to read book 2 in the series,
Terri, where the story continues. I enjoyed Terri's story as much as
Callie's. I loved the threads of faith and hope that ran through both books. If
you enjoy good inspirational fiction, you'll love these. There are more in the
series I hope to read soon. I purchased my own copies of each book. My opinions
are my own.
Thursday, June 4, 2020
Fiction Book Review: Set the Stars Alight by Amanda Dykes
Two hundred years earlier, the seeds of love are sown between a boy and a girl who spend their days playing in a secret sea cave, while the privileged young son of the estate looks on, wishing to join. As the children grow and war leads to unthinkable heartbreak, a story of love, betrayal, sacrifice, and redemption unfolds, held secret by the passage of time.
As Lucy and Dash journey to a mysterious old estate on the East Sussex coast, their search leads them to a community of souls and a long-hidden tale that may hold the answers--and the healing--they so desperately seek.
Amanda Dykes is a gifted writer who pens beautiful stories of mystery, love, and sacrifice.
Tuesday, May 19, 2020
Fiction Book Review: Carolina Breeze (A Bluebell Inn Romance Book 2) by Denise Hunter
Denise Hunter knows how to write romance. Her first book in the Bluebell Inn series satisfied readers with her sweet romance between Molly and Adam. Now Molly's brother finds himself smitten with the romance bug. Mia Emerson has hunkered down at the inn. Along with her, an entourage of excitement and craziness follows. Levi has always been the family member with the calm, cool, no-nonsense demeanor. Now he needs to figure out how all the emotions he experiences fit into his well-laid plan. I especially enjoyed watching Levi grow into himself and re-discover emotions he'd buried. I also liked Mia's determination to be herself in the midst of accusations by tabloids. Hunter created a sweet story that shines light on trust, support, and love. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Tuesday, May 12, 2020
Fiction Book Review: Of Literature and Lattes by Katherine Reay
What a delight to return to Winsome, Illinois, the home of quirky folks and a cozy bookshop. In the previous novel, The Printed Letter Bookshop, we met Madeline who inherited her aunt's bookstore along with eccentric employees, Claire and Janet. The bookshop is running well when Janet's daughter, Alyssa, returns to Winsome. As much as she doesn't want to, she moves in with her mom. As Alyssa tries to come to grips with the mess called life, she meets Jeremy. He needs a friend and some good business advice. Reay's Of Literature and Lattes is another charming story of hurt, hope, and healing. I've enjoyed every one of her books. I look forward to the nod to literary references she sprinkles through her stories, as well as her lovable characters. A little bonus, her books have gorgeous covers. I hope she'll visit Winsome a third time. I'd love to catch up on more of the folks from this lovely town. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Monday, May 4, 2020
Fiction Review: The Summer House by Lauren K. Denton
In this story of change and growth, I appreciated that Lily ended up in a village filled with retirees. I found the setting refreshing. So often people forget that folks over fifty-five live interesting lives. Lauren K. Denton explores not only rising up after losing everything, as Lily does, but also letting go and enjoying life as we watch Rose bloom (pun intended.) I love how the author captures the endearing personalities of the folks in Safe Harbor. I can't forget to mention Rawlins. He's a single dad and a sweetheart with a touching story. I didn't care for the consumption of alcohol by the characters, although it had a connection to the story. Otherwise, The Summer House is a charming story. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Thursday, April 23, 2020
Fiction Reviews: Liar's Winter & Mercy's Rain by Cindy Sproles
Liar's Winter |
When your life is built around a father's wrath, how can you trust in the love of Father God?
Mercy's Rain |
Cindy has a new book coming out in June,
What Momma Left Behind.
Tuesday, March 31, 2020
Fiction Book Review: Starfish Pier (A Hope Harbor Novel Book #6) by Irene Hannon
First-grade teacher Holly Miller leads a quiet, low-profile existence--until she's recruited to advocate for a cause that's dear to her heart. When she solicits Steven's assistance, sparks fly--especially after they find themselves on opposite sides of an issue that disrupts their placid seaside community.
As these two seemingly incompatible souls search for common ground, might they discover a deeper connection--and find that love can banish darkness and light the way to a future filled with promise?
Irene Hannon's Hope Harbor series is one of my favorites. Seems like they get better and better with each new book. This story, featuring Steven and Holly, hits on some weighty issues. Hannon handles them beauty and grace. Besides Steven and Holly, Steven's brother Patrick has demons to conquer and Holly's neighbor is about to make a decision that will change his life. I love the way all their stories are woven together with threads of faith. The gorgeous setting and recurring characters of Hope Harbor enhance Hannon's storytelling and makes me hungry for fish tacos! If you read Starfish Pier and enjoy it, make sure to go back and read the first five volumes of this wonderful series. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.