At Lighthouse Point is my favorite of the Three Sisters Island series. Blaine has grown up and come home, bringing along Frenchman—Jean Paul—a delightAt Lighthouse Point is my favorite of the Three Sisters Island series. Blaine has grown up and come home, bringing along Frenchman—Jean Paul—a delightful, accident prone young man. While her best friend, Artie, doctors Jean Paul underlying tension builds. Her sisters are both expecting, other family members are dealing with health issues, and her dad has a secret. Peg Legg and the other townspeople are back and they are not happy with oldest sister Cam’s push to update the island. The story’s many layers play out into a delightful story of family, friendship, faith and love. I enjoy the setting on a Maine island with a lighthouse and camp. If you enjoy family stories with a spiritual thread, you’ll love At Lighthouse Point. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
I adore The Shell Collector. This is one of those rare novels that drips with wisdom in the midst of living and appreciating life. Set on Whelk’s IslaI adore The Shell Collector. This is one of those rare novels that drips with wisdom in the midst of living and appreciating life. Set on Whelk’s Island, much of the novel takes place along a gorgeous beach with sea gulls swooping and sea glass washing to shore. Widowed two years ago, Amanda is raising two delightful children in a cottage near the beach. She cherishes the memories of her husband’s love even as she tries to start over. As she and her children play on the beach, she meets Maeve, a lovely 80 something woman, who has dealt with her own sorrow. Mauve is the mentor Amanda needs to help her move forward. I love the respect Amanda and Mauve have for each other. It’s wonderful to read a book portraying an older adult with such dignity. Then comes Paul. His story will melt your heart along with his kind personality. The Shell Collector is a beautiful story of friendship, faith, love, heartbreak, and joy. Naigle has written a story to be savored and read again and again. 5+ stars. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
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’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....more
This is the saddest book I've read in a while. Although there are some happy endings, the truth of that time (Civil War) is hard to read. Martha Hall This is the saddest book I've read in a while. Although there are some happy endings, the truth of that time (Civil War) is hard to read. Martha Hall Kelly writes a truthful and at times graphic account of Civil War times. I usually read inspirational fiction, but because I enjoy books written in this time period, I gave this a try. Am I glad I read it? Yes. It reminded me of the difficulties of the Civil War and the horrors of slavery. This is a timely tale based on the lives of real people. Ms. Kelly has done her research and includes letters actually written at that time. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
I enjoyed returning to Mesquite Springs in Dreams Rekindled. Dorothy has determined she’ll never marry. If she doesn’t fall in love, life will be easiI enjoyed returning to Mesquite Springs in Dreams Rekindled. Dorothy has determined she’ll never marry. If she doesn’t fall in love, life will be easier, less hurtful. And she’s determined to follow her dream of being a writer like Harriet Beecher Stowe. Brandon fears repeating the mistakes of his past, so he’s playing it safe as the new editor of the local newspaper. The two work together and fall into a comfortable rhythm until they see each other as more than friends. Dorothy’s character is strong, independent, and trusts God with her future. Brandon is humble, honest, and kind. I love the comradery they share working together and the story of their possible romance. The story also has plenty of excitement and action when deception and danger come to town. Cabot’s depiction of the era invites the reader to walk the streets of Mesquite Springs with the characters and maybe visit Polly’s Place. Cabot’s references to the folks from book #1 of the series was fun, as well. If you enjoy books set in small towns in the 1800s, you’ll love this series. Dreams Rekindled can be read as a standalone, but why not read them all? I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
I enjoyed reading Inked Out. I'm a fan of MacInerney's Gray Whale Inn mysteries, and I love that the main character of the Snug Harbor books appeared I enjoyed reading Inked Out. I'm a fan of MacInerney's Gray Whale Inn mysteries, and I love that the main character of the Snug Harbor books appeared in the Gray Whale Inn. Inked Out is a fun cozy to read, especially if you are a book lover like me. ...more
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 ponI 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....more
I’ve read all three books in the Pelican Harbor series, and this one is so, so good. Colleen Coble never disappoints as she delves into mystery and roI’ve read all three books in the Pelican Harbor series, and this one is so, so good. Colleen Coble never disappoints as she delves into mystery and romance. Jane’s son is accused of murder—as mother and Chief of Police—she must find the real killer with the help of his dad, Reid. Coble twists and weaves unexpected elements, as well as familial ties, into this excellent third book. Pelican Harbor, a charming place to live, goes through some tough times along with Jane as she races to right the wrongs in her small town. Colleen Coble does a beautiful job setting up the story and creating the atmosphere. Love the description woven into her prose. This book can now be pre-ordered. If you enjoy romance laced with suspense, you’ll love Three Missing Days. If you haven’t read One Little Lie or Two Reasons to Run, I recommend you pick them up to get Jane’s whole story. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
Jennifer Deibel creates an incredible picture of life in a small 1920s village. A Dance in Donegal engaged the senses and left me wanting to walk in tJennifer Deibel creates an incredible picture of life in a small 1920s village. A Dance in Donegal engaged the senses and left me wanting to walk in the village and on the shore. Moira’s story is one of delight and despair. She’s traveled to a foreign country and knows no one, as she strives to fulfill her mother’s last wish. She meets some charming, warm, and friendly people and some who scare the wits out of her. In the book Moira meets Sean, a kind-hearted man who loves his village and people. I am fascinated by the legend and lore in the story, as well as the sprinkling of dialect. Jennifer Deibel lived in Ireland for six years and has captured the magic and beauty of the island. If you enjoy a tale well told, you’ll love this book as much I do. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
Obsession is a great title for this book, because I didn’t want to put it down. Sam Ryker must protect Emma Winters at any cost, but their feelings anObsession is a great title for this book, because I didn’t want to put it down. Sam Ryker must protect Emma Winters at any cost, but their feelings and families push and shove for and against them. As Sam deals with family baggage and Emma longs to find her beloved brother, the two are tangled in a mess of lies and danger. Patricia Bradley has written another suspense filled mystery that will have readers wondering what really happened, and who is chasing who. I love the setting of Natchez Trace and the nod to parks and historical remembrance. If you enjoy suspense with twists and turns, you’ll want to read Obsession. Even though this is part of a series, it can be read as a stand alone. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
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 chapteRoots 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 what 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....more
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 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....more
Ciesielski has created a story filled with beauty, love, and mystery. I love books where the setting is as much a character as the people. Beauty AmonCiesielski has created a story filled with beauty, love, and mystery. I love books where the setting is as much a character as the people. Beauty Among Ruins is a wonderful book to get lost in as you travel to the beautiful Scottish highlands and walk the hills and gardens. Lily, a delightful character, brings joy and charm to an otherwise sad situation. I love her spunk and fearless ways. Alec, the brave, strong, brooding Scot, fights to hang on to his beloved home. A variety of intriguing characters enhance the story of Lily and Alec as they try to solve the mysteries surrounding Kinclavoch Castle. If you enjoy stories set in the early 1900s with romance and intrigue, you'll love Beauty Among Ruins. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
Jason and Tay Brown's story is so inspiring. Even though he never planned on playing football, God led him in a different direction. In high school, hJason and Tay Brown's story is so inspiring. Even though he never planned on playing football, God led him in a different direction. In high school, he picked up football and found he was good. He played in college and went on to be a talented athlete in the NFL. As he played the game and lived the life of one ensconced in a wealthy life, Jason knew he needed to get back to his faith before his family fell apart. He and Tay went through some tough times, even when they had whatever they wanted. But God can turn any life around, if they're willing to listen. I enjoyed the story of Jason and Tay as they moved their family to a farm in North Carolina and trusted God with their future. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
Erin Bartels created a brilliant and moving story of two sisters searching for hope. She beautifully balances total disbelief with belief in whatever Erin Bartels created a brilliant and moving story of two sisters searching for hope. She beautifully balances total disbelief with belief in whatever gets you by, while telling a heartrending tale of love and loss. The sisters, as most are, come across very different from one another with a link that joins them forever. Through all of the ups and downs of the camping trip, I felt like I was hiking along the path with Melanie and Olivia. Bartels reveals a spiritual thread throughout the story that left me seeking more. And there is a twist or two. I won't give that away, but I will say it was the perfect way to integrate grace into a tragic story. If you enjoy heartfelt, family stories that delve deep, you'll want to read All That We Carried. I've read all of Bartels' books and this one is my favorite. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
Suzanne Woods Fisher's story delves into the tragedy of adults who, often by no fault of their own, never learned to read. Reminiscent of Catherine MaSuzanne Woods Fisher's story delves into the tragedy of adults who, often by no fault of their own, never learned to read. Reminiscent of Catherine Marshall's Christy, a beloved telling of Appalachian life, The Moonlight School tells the tale of Miss Lucy, a young lady from the city, who learns, with some surprise, life in the mountains has a beauty all its own. I particularly enjoyed the story of Brother Wyatt and his heart for the folks in the mountains. A variety of characters sprinkled through the story have lived fascinating lives. Cora's story, based on the real person who started the moonlight schools is inspiring. I truly enjoyed every bit of this book, including a thread of mystery. I agree with the description I found on Amazon—as I finished the last pages, I thanked God for the privilege of reading. As someone who worked in an elementary school library and as a volunteer in my daughter's first grade class, I'm accustomed to the excitement and delight little ones share when they learn to read. To read about adults who found satisfaction in the written word thrilled my heart. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
As I read I'm Going to Give You a Polar Bear Hug, the snow was falling outside my window. Winter is a magical time for children, a let's build a snowmAs I read I'm Going to Give You a Polar Bear Hug, the snow was falling outside my window. Winter is a magical time for children, a let's build a snowman, make snow angels time. So why not be creative and play polar bear hug in the winter wonderland of pretend with "a shivery, quivery, forty below hug." Caroline B. Cooney, known for her young adult novels, has created a lovely, rhyming story celebrating the importance of hugs. In this fun story, the child is hugged by all kinds of animals, at the end, the little one shares a hug with someone special. Tim Warnes colorful illustrations show the story's whimsical words in bright, energetic drawings. This is a great read for 4 to 8 year olds and would make a wonderful holiday gift. Snuggle up with your little one and share a polar bear hug. This book will delight children and adults. I received a complimentary copy of this item. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. #Zonderkidz ...more
Cornwall's coast is fascinating, especially to Laura Callaway. Although she feels like an outsider in her new home, she fills her days helping others Cornwall's coast is fascinating, especially to Laura Callaway. Although she feels like an outsider in her new home, she fills her days helping others and working to return lost flotsam and jetsam to the rightful owners. On the day she discovers a man who has washed ashore, her life changes. Julie Klassen has done her research in this interesting story of love and loss. I found the characters compelling and the setting remarkable. Although the book was a bit slow, the story is well written. Klassen goes into detail to make the reader feel the chilly coast and the heartache Laura carries. If you enjoy historical fiction set in England, this is the book for you. I received a complimentary copy of this item. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
The Ink & Willow postcards come in a cute book where they can be removed one-at-a-time or kept to enjoy. Although the cards have designs that can be cThe Ink & Willow postcards come in a cute book where they can be removed one-at-a-time or kept to enjoy. Although the cards have designs that can be colored with pencil or markers, the touches of gold make them beautiful on their own. Each card is beautifully designed with a drawing and an inspiring quote. I'll enjoy sending these to friends and family. These would make a lovely gift or a sweet surprise, with each postcard sent. The paper is high quality and great to color on. The back of the card continues the sentiment with room for an address and a message. I received a complimentary copy of this item. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
Wow! What a wonderful story. The Dress Shop on King Street captures the tension of the time period in the 1940s-60s, then slips on to modern day to teWow! What a wonderful story. The Dress Shop on King Street captures the tension of the time period in the 1940s-60s, then slips on to modern day to tell an incredible story of courage, despair, and hope. I absolutely love Millie and Franklin's story as Millie traverses the world of a white person, whose heritage speaks differently. At times Millie's story breaks my heart and makes me angry because of the unfair world she lives in, but she perseveres. Harper's search for the future she dreams of leads Millie and her into Peter's life. The story that tumbles out of the past and crashes into the future is one filled with untold secrets, regrets, and hope, always hope. I also enjoyed the sewing references and the tale of the buttons. I'd love to see Harper's gorgeous creations. Ashley Clark did a beautiful job stitching the eras together and giving Harper a clear understanding of what it takes to follow your dreams. 5+ stars. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
I love Andi Grace Scott. Despite wanting to live a simple life, she winds up in the middle of a murder investigation, again, and helps a young woman wI love Andi Grace Scott. Despite wanting to live a simple life, she winds up in the middle of a murder investigation, again, and helps a young woman with a rough past. And who wouldn't love Marc Williams, Andi's patient and attentive boyfriend. There were some surprises and twists I didn't expect, which makes the book that much more appealing. Bag of Bones, the third Low Country Dog Walker mystery is a great story. It's one of those series, when I finish reading, I miss the characters and hope there's another book coming. I have enjoyed all of Jackie Layton's Low Country Dog Walker books. If you enjoy cozy mysteries, you'll love Jackie Layton's books. I purchased this copy, and all opinions are my own....more
I love this heartwarming story of hope and forgiveness. Gerrit Laninga spent years working the family dairy. The whole time he carried guilt. When he I love this heartwarming story of hope and forgiveness. Gerrit Laninga spent years working the family dairy. The whole time he carried guilt. When he finally lets go of the farm, he's faced with what to do with his life. He loves his wife Hannie, but lots of mending needs to be done. In comes Rae Walters, a self-driven teenager who needs to stick with The Plan. These two go on a path that leads them to self-examination and discovery. Katie Powner's debut is beautiful. This is a great read as we go into the season of thanksgiving. I enjoyed the country setting and all the characters who matter to Gerrit and Rae. If you enjoy books with a redemptive thread and a family/community theme, you'll love The Sowing Season. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
Tiny Truths Wonder and Wisdom is a beautifully written book for children. The illustrations are eye-catching and fun, they remind me of the cute FunkoTiny Truths Wonder and Wisdom is a beautifully written book for children. The illustrations are eye-catching and fun, they remind me of the cute Funko Pop toys. Most important, they show how God loves all people. The truths written out in a kid-friendly way are timeless. Each story is paired with a verse from Psalm or Proverbs. The book includes a table of contents, an introduction to Psalm and Proverbs, and more to explore verses. Written in easy to read text, the wisdom and wonders will delight little ones. This would be a perfect gift book for many occasions or a great book to use in a class for children. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own....more
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