Dating, Dining, and Desperation by Melody Carlson

I am enjoying this Dear Daphne series by Melody Carlson.  It takes the reader on some unexpected twists that are just enough to throw you for a loop.  In this book, it took me awhile to figure out Jake.  I was just as confused as Daphne about whether he liked her or not during certain times in the book.


Sabrina was a ball of energy.  It tired me out just reading her words and imagining her energy.  I'm more of an introvert, so that personality is a bit overwhelming to me at times.  I found it funny that it was overwhelming to me in a book, too!  She was a good character and I liked her, but I had to get used to her stories and energy.


The deal behind Daphne getting to keep the house and car is a bit far-fetched, I think, but I'm not one of those who has to read a book just for real life stories.  In fact, sometimes the unrealistic ones are the ones that are my great escape and let me be free to open my imagination.


I liked Appleton.  If it looks anything like the cover, it seems like such a fun town to explore and settle down in.  The cover was well done to capture the imagination of the reader.  In fact, to be honest, that was the reason I started this series.  Lock, Stock, & Barrel had a fun cover, plus I like Melody Carlson. 


I am sad that the publishers are only doing ebooks for books 3 and 4 in this series.  It would be nice to have the paperback versions, too.  I'm not certain why they are not printing, unless it's to save costs.  I'm glad that Carlson took the time to explain that to her readers because I would have been searching the bookstore for them.  I do hope they change their minds, though!  Either way, I'll be sure to read 3 and 4, which are supposed to be coming out soon.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Over the years, Melody Carlson has worn many hats, from pre-school teacher to youth counselor to political activist to senior editor. But most of all, she loves to write! Currently she freelances from her home. In the past eight years, she has published over ninety books for children, teens, and adults--with sales totaling more than two million and many titles appearing on the ECPA Bestsellers List. Several of her books have been finalists for, and winners of, various writing awards.

She has two grown sons and lives in Central Oregon with her husband and chocolate lab retriever. They enjoy skiing, hiking, gardening, camping and biking in the beautiful Cascade Mountains.


ABOUT THE BOOK

Daphne Ballinger has learned to accept her deceased, eccentric aunt’s strange request that she marry in order to inherit her estate, along with taking over her aunt’s hometown paper’s advice column. But knowing and accepting that God’s will be done becomes harder when a new neighbor, a divorced socialite, learns of Daphne’s predicament and takes on the task of finding her the perfect man, even if it includes speed dating. When God does open Daphne’s heart, it is instead to take in a young girl left parentless and in the care of her dying grandmother. It may be a temporary arrangement until the girl’s uncle returns from the Marines, but God uses Daphne to speak His heavenly love and protection into the life of the child -- whom Daphne soon discovers has a very handsome and single uncle.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Dating, Dining, and Desperation, go HERE.

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I received this book free from CFBA and B & H Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Growing Up Duggar by Jana, Jill, Jessa, and Jinger Duggar

I am a huge fan of the Duggars.  I watch their show and have read both of the books that Jim Bob and Michelle have written.  I have found them to be extremely helpful in raising my own children.  When I saw this book, I originally didn't want to read it.  I figured it would be geared more towards teen girls.  That was, of course, good, but in my spare time I wanted to read something meaningful and helpful to where I am in life. 


You can imagine my surprise when I felt like I needed to take some notes in the first couple of chapters!  The whole book is about relationships.  It is from their point of view, but their view towards their parents was so helpful to me.  They told some rules their family incorporates to help stop bickering and how their parents offer love and encouragement to each child.  I love that they spend some time with each child doing a heart-to-heart talk.  They shared some topics they discuss and I kept thinking that's what I want to do with my children.  I want them to feel safe talking to me about these things!


The chapters where they talk about their relationships with their parents and with their siblings were probably my favorites.  I liked the rest and thought they were helpful, but I took a lot of parenting ideas from the first two chapters.  I've already started the obedience game in our home.  How did I not think of that?!  The kids love it!


The book is great for those pre-teen to teen years and even into their young adulthood.  I like how positive they were about being single and how it is a time to focus on their hearts and prepare themselves by working on their relationship with God. 


I'm keeping this book for the future when my daughter (who is now 3) comes to the age where these issues begin to raise themselves.  Until then, I'll be revisiting the first few chapters to glean all of the parenting information I can!


It was helpful to see how they viewed their siblings and helping out their parents.  They truly have a servant's heart and I am glad to hear that they don't despise them at all for helping within the family.  It is encouragement to a young mom who is just starting trying to figure out chores and all of those things within our own family.


I hope the Duggars write more books.  I feel like they are so positive and give me lots of ideas and challenges.  I know they have their plates full of things, but surely another book could make that list!

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I received this book free from Howard Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Scraps of Evidence by Barbara Cameron

I have only seen the Amish side of Barbara Cameron, so I was definitely looking forward to seeing a different side of her writing.  Having read many books in the Quilts of Love series, I couldn't pass this one up.  It was a book that had me drawn in from the first pages of the book. Barbara Cameron writes in such a way that easily can go from genre to genre.

I personally think I liked the book so much because I love vacationing in the city where the book takes place.  It was easy to remember the area in this book and took me back to a relaxing summer vacation and our upcoming one!  St. Augustine is so rich of history and beauty and one just can't help but enjoy it!

Since I'm not much into mystery novels, this was perfect for me.  It wasn't too scary and it didn't keep me up at night from bad dreams!  I liked the romance and how it depicted real-life relationships.  You never forget that a serial killer is involved, but it's not a terrifying book.  Some may be disappointed in that, but I was grateful!

Now I'm switching over to read her new Amish fiction book that is coming out!  You can find out what others thought about his book by going to http://litfusegroup.com/campaigns/scraps-of-evidence-barbara-cameron.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word from the author:

CBD, CBA, and ECPA bestselling author of 35 books (including new series upcoming for Abingdon Press in 2011/2012) including fiction and non-fiction books for Abingdon Press, Thomas Nelson, Harlequin, and other publishers.

I sold three films to HBO/Cinemax and am the first winner of the Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Award.

My two novellas won the 2nd and 3rd place in the Inspirational Readers Choice Contest from the Faith, Love, and Hope chapter of RWA. Both were finalists for the novella category of the Carol Award of the American Christian Writers Award (ACFW).

ABOUT THE BOOK

Tess has taken some ribbing from her fellow officer, Logan, for her quilting hobby. He finds it hard to align the brisk professional officer he patrols with during the day with the one who quilts in her off-time. Besides, he’s been trying to get to know her better and he’d like to be seeing her during those few nights a week she spends with her quilting guild. Then one afternoon Tess and Logan visit her aunt in the nursing home, and the woman acts agitated when Tess covers her with the story quilt. Aunt Susan is attempting to communicate a message to them about Tess’s uncle. There’s a story behind this quilt, they realize, one that may lead them to a serial killer. Will they have a chance to have a future together, or will the killer choose Tess for his next victim before they find him?

If you would like to read the first chapter of , go HERE.

 

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I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group and Abingdon Press in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

A Road Unknown by Barbara Cameron

I like everything about this book, from the cover to the story to the way the words are formatted within the book and the type of font used.

I had difficulty putting this book down because I enjoyed the story so much!  Saul was such a sweetheart and you can't help but like Elizabeth and Paula.  The book doesn't have a lot of drama or twists but it is still a book that keeps you engaged and excited about the story.

My favorite part was probably how Saul and Elizabeth met on the bus.  I did get a good laugh at Saul and his ego! Although I have a hard time thinking he has one after getting to know him.  I struggled with Elizabeth's grandma. I do wish there had been a little more of the story between them upon Elizabeth's return.  I kind of wanted her to soften some and admit she was being mean.

I'm looking forward to this series very much!  I can't wait to see where Barbara Cameron goes with this series.  Read what others thought about this book by going to http://litfusegroup.com/author/BCameron.

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Book 1 in the new Amish Roads series
Elizabeth is at a crossroad. She’s been given the chance to experience life outside of her community, away from the responsibility to care for her eight younger siblings, but Elizabeth Bontrager can’t decide which road to take. Goshen has its charms and pressures, but Paradise, Pennsylvania, sounds . . . well, like paradise. And it’s also home to her Englisch friend, Paula. Decision made. Elizabeth is Paradise bound.
But will the small town live up to its name? When Elizabeth meets Paula’s friend, Bruce, she quickly learns he wants more than a friendship. And the same might be true of Saul Miller, her new boss at the country story that sells Amish products to the Englisch community. As the two compete for her attention, Elizabeth is surprised to realize she misses her family and becomes even more uncertain about where she belongs. She has a choice to make: return home or embrace this new life and possibly a new love?
Purchase a copy here.
Find out more at Barbara’s website.

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I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity and Abingdon Press in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

A Sky without Stars by Linda S. Clare

As I've said about every book in this series, I really like the Quilts of Love series.  I have quite a fondness for quilts and really enjoy making them so I like to know the stories behind them.  I can't help but think of some of these stories when I look at my own quilts and then I like to  remember my story while I was making that quilt.


I like how there is a broad range of people that have been in this series and who have all shared one passion....quilts.  The commonality of quilts has now bridged over to the Native Americans in this book.  It was fun to think of them having these beautiful quilts, because I honestly think of the Amish and quilts!  I liked this new story of how this one woman preserved her heritage with a quilt and a star.


The story of finding the balance between living as a Lakota and a Christian is fascinating.  For Frankie Chasing Bear, who has a jaded view of Christianity some because of how her parents were treated and made to convert, I get the feeling she truly does want to believe.  However, due to the horrible things that she's seen and heard, she sees how the Christians contradicted their faith. 


I liked Nick and could understand Lakota's suspicion and wariness with him.  I could also understand why she wanted to preserve the Lakota star for her son and the importance of the quilt.  I liked imagining him telling his children the story behind this quilt.  It would no doubt be filled with stories of how his mother learned how to live in 2 cultures and bridged the gap between both.


Once again, another great book in this series.  Can't wait to see what comes out next and what type of character fills the pages in it!

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Linda S. Clare is an award-winning author and coauthor of several books and has also published many essays, stories, and poems in publications, including The Christian Reader, The Denver Post, and The Philadelphia Inquirer. Her most recent book is A Sky without Stars, the newest release in Abingdon’s Quilts of Love line. Born in Arizona, Linda and her husband now make their home in Eugene, Oregon, where Linda has taught college-level creative writing classes, and writes, edits, and mentors other writers. She also is a frequent writing conference presenter, a church retreat leader, and mom to four grown children and five wayward cats.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Frankie Chasing Bear is caught between cultures. She wants to raise her son Harold to revere his Lakota heritage, but she also thinks he will need to learn the white man’s ways to succeed. After the untimely death of her husband, Frankie joins the U.S. Government’s Relocation Program and moves to Arizona. There she begins sewing a Lakota Star pattern quilt for Harold with tribal wisdom sung, sewn, and prayed into it. A bed without a quilt is like a sky without stars, but neither the quilt—nor her new life—comes easily to Frankie. Nick Vandergriff, for instance, is the last man Frankie wants to trust. He’s half-Lakota but Christian, and Frankie can see no good coming from that faith after her own parents were forced to convert at an Indian school. Can Nick convince Frankie that white men and Christians aren’t all bad? And will Frankie learn that love is the most important ingredient—for her son’s quilt and life itself?


If you would like to read the first chapter of A Sky Without Stars, go HERE.
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I received this book free from CFBA and Abingdon Press in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

My Amish Boyfriend by Melody Carlson

Melody Carlson is an author I like to go to when I'm looking for a good light-hearted, fun read.  Her story lines are fun, not necessarily reality.  However, the emotions that her characters feel are very much real and easy to identify.


In this book, I can't imagine how Shannon juggles school and taking care of her sick mother.  I know people do have to do that as young people and they are to be commended.  The book is tailored more for youth, I think.  The situation Shannon is in is very easily identifiable with many in today's youth. 


I found Shannon's selflessness refreshing.  It was such a good example for not just youth, but for adults, as well.  She laid aside her summer plans and her desires to go with her mom to take care of her.  She had no idea where she was going and the fact that her mother had family came quite as a surprise.


It as fun to watch her try to become Amish.  I can only imagine how difficult that would be.  But I liked how Ezra was able to help Shannon get through those dark times of summer.


The only hard part for me about this book was trying to get back to thinking I was young.  I tend to put myself in as the character, so it was hard for me to go into that mindset.  I'm impressed by those people that can easily do that.  With that said, this book wasn't meant for adults, so her goal was accomplished.  However, I did read it and enjoy it very much.

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I received this book free from Revell Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

With Autumn's Return by Amanda Cabot

I have really enjoyed this series.  This is the third book in the Westward Winds series. Amanda Cabot puts so much emotion into her books, whether it's a little humor or a tough situation.  I feel like it tugs at me and I can relate to the characters and their emotions. 

I liked how Elizabeth faces opposition in becoming a doctor.  Attorney Jason and Elizabeth had a contrast view of what a woman should and should not do.  Jason holds the traditionalist view and Elizabeth sees how girls have a lot to offer and has a strong desire to help others.  Who would have ever thought that a patient is what would bring Elizabeth and Jason together.  However, can Jason change his mind about the roles of a woman before its too late? 

Elizabeth has the challenge of opening up her own practice in the middle of a community that doesn't think a woman should be a doctor.  Elizabeth has to show the community that she knows what she is doing and is very capable of taking care of the community if they would only give her a chance.

The thing that I appreciated most about this story was how Cabot wasn't afraid to write about brothels as patients for Elizabeth. I'm glad that she chose to use people who weren't necessarily sick just to show Elizabeth's kind and gentle heart.  She was a good example of how we all should be, despite people's background.

I am looking forward to seeing what's next for Amanda Cabot!

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I received this book free from Revel Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Traitor's Wife by Allison Pataki

It has been such a long time since I've given any thought to Benedict Arnold.  I'm sure we studied about him in school, but I didn't remember much about him.  I really enjoyed all of the history that was in this book.  There was so much detail, but I never got bogged down in the historical information.  The story flowed easily in and out of the historical timeline.

I am very impressed that this is Allison Pataki's first novel.  She wrote so well that I never realized this was her first book until I read the biography on her!   I expect so many other great novels coming from her over the years.

This book focuses on the Revolutionary War. I liked the perspective in which she writes through her characters.  Clara, the maid, tells the story of Peggy, who is the 2nd wife of Benedict Arnold (of whom I knew nothing about).  I absolutely could not imagine being in Clara's place.  She knew so much information and I think I'd be terrified about the repercussions if someone found out I knew all that she did!

This has been such a great historical novel. It has a little romance,  little suspense, and a little history. In my opinion, this book has everything in it that makes a good book.

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I received this book free from Howard Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Beneath the Dover Sky by Murray Pura

This is one of my favorite series I've read in such a long time.  I am a huge Downton Abbey fan and these books remind me so much of my that.  It's written beautifully and is very engaging.  I have a hard time putting this book down because I don't want to step out of their world!  It's just so different from today and it's so much fun to imagine life back then.

One of my favorite things about Murray Para's writing is that he writes with so much history.  That's one of my favorite things to study and learn about and I love how historically rich his novels are.  This is my first series I've read by him, but I have already purchased his other series.  I just know they will be as good as these!

Beneath the Dover Sky is the second book in the Danforth of Lancashire series.  It picks up in 1924, just as Hitler has been thrown in jail and is looking toward being released.  He has quite a following despite being in jail and is working on releasing a book, in which the great theologian and German professor, Albrecht Hartmann is asked to write a book countering his.  Catharine and her son are given opportunities to move ahead in life and to never forget their husband/father, but to find a family again.

This book really focuses a lot on Catharine and her suitors, but it also involved her siblings, as well,  They each play a role in the making of history and have their own obstacles to overcome.

I like how connected I feel to the entire family, not just one character.  With not all of them under the same roof, I thought I would feel a little disconnected. I didn't though, thanks to their letters home.

I can't wait to read book 3 that is already out and to read his Snapshots in History series.

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I received this book free from Harvest House Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

The Berenstain Bears Keep the Faith by Mike Berenstain

The Berenstain Bears are a family favorite in our household.  I like how they teach the children real truths from a fiction standpoint.  My kids like them and I like that they teach about sharing, strangers, and other topics and character qualities.

I was curious as to how they would handle the topic of faith and how they would explain it at such a child-like level.  I liked how they brought in science and how we can appreciate science and still believe in the resurrected Jesus.  I also like their definition of faith: "Trusting in God's love."

We read this book and before I even put it down, my kids asked if we could read it again.  I'm putting this book on my shelf to be read over and over again, along with the other Berenstain Bears books.

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I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers and Booksneeze in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Once Upon a Winter's Heart by Melody Carlson

A family seems like it's being torn apart with little hope of reconciliation.  A lot of thoughts were circling around about the "grass being greener on the other side" and love that hasn't been invested in over the years, as well as mistakes made and forgiveness not being offered.

Emma was jaded in the love department but she was my favorite.  Her sister, Anne, drove me nuts with her false claims over Lane.  Her mom did, too, for practically taking sides over sisters.  It reminded me of Cinderella and the stepsisters some!

This was a cute Valentine's Day story.  It was a fun holiday novella that got me in the mood to celebrate a holiday that I normally gloss over.  I can't remember ever reading a Valentine's novella before so it was refreshing to celebrate a smaller holiday!

I have always liked Melody Carlson's books.  They are sweet and fun reads that are a nice escape.  The shortness of the book was a good change for me too after reading really long books.  Sometimes it's nice to read something in a few hours!

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Over the years, Melody Carlson has worn many hats, from pre-school teacher to youth counselor to political activist to senior editor. But most of all, she loves to write! Currently she freelances from her home. In the past eight years, she has published over ninety books for children, teens, and adults--with sales totaling more than two million and many titles appearing on the ECPA Bestsellers List. Several of her books have been finalists for, and winners of, various writing awards.

She has two grown sons and lives in Central Oregon with her husband and chocolate lab retriever. They enjoy skiing, hiking, gardening, camping and biking in the beautiful Cascade Mountains.


ABOUT THE BOOK

Emma Burcelli has suffered over a decade of dating disasters. But she concludes that love is officially dead when her grandfather Poppi suddenly passes, leaving her grandmother Nona devastated. To help out, Emma works in the family bookstore, which Nona insists must be decked out in sweetheart décor as Poppi would have done for Valentine's Day. Although she feels like a V-Day Scrooge, Emma quickly learns to enjoy the task with the help of a handsome family friend, Lane Forester, who shows her that hanging hearts is much more fun when done to the tune of Dean Martin. As Emma and Lane share time and memories of Poppi, she reconsiders the notion that romance is alive.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Once Upon a Winter's Heart, go HERE.

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I received this book free from CFBA and Bookish Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Gabriel's Bride by Amy Lillard

I really like the bright colors on the cover of this book.  It is a very attractive cover and eye-catching.  The pages inside are just as well done as the cover.  This is the third book in the Clover Ridge series.  I've come to like each character in this book, but Gabriel and Rachel very quickly grabbed my heart.  I understood why Gabriel didn't want to be married and Rachel's attachment to her goats. With all that Rachel had lost in her life, I wanted her to finally be happy and have her dreams come true.

I did want them to realize they were perfect for each other and get over themselves quicker!  I guess that because I saw it, I wanted them to realize it and move forward a little quicker than they really did.  I guess that because I saw that she was the answer to his housekeeping problem and him the answer to her staying, it was obvious.  However, I know in life that we sometimes miss the obvious, so it was a good reminder for me.

I think my favorite person in this book though was Gabriel's 6-year-old son who liked old people because "all old people have peppermints."  I liked that he had a disability and was still loved and valued and not pushed away by his brothers.

Amy Lillard is such a good writer of Amish fiction.  I'm looking forward to what she writes next.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

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

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

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

I believe that God is love. I guess that’s why I adore romances.

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

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK

Rachel Yoder has two choices: marry Gabriel Fisher or move to Ohio. As an orphan, Rachel doesn’t have much to offer; any match she can make will be a good one. She just didn’t plan on Gabriel with his big hands and permanent frown. As a widower Gabriel needs help caring for the farm and his six children. But he never thought he’d marry a slip of a girl who barely reaches his chin. Yet as time passes, Gabriel finds himself thinking about a real marriage. They have spoken vows to God and each other, but can he risk his heart with Rachel?


If you would like to read the first chapter of Gabriel's Bride, go HERE.

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I received this book free from CFBA and B&H Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.



Praying for Boys by Brooke McGlothlin

Boys are totally different from girls.  Even at such a young age, I have never seen so much energy put into one person!  Their interests are definitely different than mine and if I'm not on my knees every morning before he wakes up (or my daughter) and asking for wisdom and seeking Him, then I know I'm going to be in for one rough day. 

This book is such a practical and helpful book and one that I will be keeping beside me through the years and giving as a gift to the moms I know who have boys!  The first part of the book make you feel normal and that your son isn't the only one who goes from 0-50 in 1 second flat.  I can't help but laugh at the description of those creative little guys!  I love their hearts!  It's followed by a chapter on what prayer is and why we do it.  I love that she reminds people not to become legalistic about having their quiet time in the morning and offers encouragement to those moms who so desperately want one and feel like they have to squeeze it in.  I've been there and that was encouraging to read and I know will free other moms.

Then the specific prayers focus on things that we want them to know and learn to be a godly man.  Over the days/weeks, you will be praying for their heart change, obedience, fears, integrity, wisdom, pride, honor, pirating, a servant's heart, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control, anger, forgiveness, and salvation. Who wouldn't want these things for their son (and daughter). 

At the end of each day, there are reflection or discussion questions.  These are fun to journal, too, which is what I did.

The book came out of her 21 days of prayer for sons challenge.  There is information in the back if you want to use this for a community study or an online study. 


Thank you for something to encourage moms of boys!

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I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Dare to Love Again by Julie Lessman

I don't think that I have miss a single book by Julie Lessman and there's a reason for that.  She writes with such humor and attitude that you can't help but laugh throughout the book, even during serious scenes.  I never get enough of the Irish attitude!

Allison McClure had spunk!  Whenever her and Nick Barone (with a long e) were in the same room together, sparks and tempers flew.  I loved the scene with the hair pins and how imagination imagined that scene.  At first, I suspected Nick to be up to something and wasn't convinced his intentions were all that pure.  But that didn't make me like Allison's uncle any better.  I liked him by the last page and could understand his desire to protect his family, but for the most part he annoyed me.

The ending of the book broke my heart one minute and then made me laugh the next.  The cable car scenes were also pretty fun to imagine.  You can tell that Julie Lessman had a lot of fun writing this book.  I'm curious how much of her personality is in this book!  The characters are funny and real.  Meg was one that I liked because of her difference.  I hated that her friends couldn't see her beauty and love her for who she really was.

I'm looking forward to the next book in the Heart of San Francisco Series.

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I received this book free from Revell Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

A December Bride by Denise Hunter

Denise Hunter is an author that I know I can always find a respite inside the pages of her books.  I like the idea of a year of weddings. What girl doesn't love a good wedding story?!

I was very impressed with how I felt like I knew Seth and Layla despite the short length of the book.  I liked how it covers a short amount of time and that the back history was easily summed up with none of the important details left out. 

I was left wanting to read more of these books, which is a good thing because I saw a lot of them come out this year!

Missing the Christmas season already, I loved stepping back into the season.  It was complete with the colors and vivid scenery.   It's the perfect book for a short, light read.

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I received this book free from Booksneeze and Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Friend Me by John Faubion

After reading this book, I'm disliking Facebook and social media!  Not that I ever truly liked it and trusted it, but it was kind of scary to put myself into the mindset of someone who wished to do harm to others using social media. 

Reading this book, I can see how people could so easily fall for schemes like this and it makes me wonder how many people do on a daily basis. It's kind of scary to even consider.

I was hooked on this book from the first page. The book is full of suspense and action. I'm not a huge suspense fan but I liked this book, which I think is good if I can read it and like it!

I'll admit that when I read the information about John Faubion, all I saw was that he was a missionary in Asia with his family for many years.  I figured he wrote with a lot of experience so that's why I chose this book. However, I was wrong.  He does write with a lot of experience, just not how I thought. He worked as a senior software developer for a large appliance chain so he has a lot of knowledge in this area.  He did a wonderful job relating to the reader using a topic that our culture is addicted to.  The lines are easily blurred and explained away when it comes to what adultery is.  I was glad that Faubion shows clearly how the heart knows when adultery is occurring and how giving into temptation once leads to a whole host of other consequences.

I'm interested to see if Faubion will write any more books.  I think he definitely has a gift to share and lots of knowledge from life experience.

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I received this book free from Howard Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Born of Persuasion by Jessica Dotta

I can usually tell when I read a book whether or not I'm reading a fairly new author or not.  I'm shocked that Jessica Dotta has not written so many more books.  I'm glad to see that this is the beginning of a trilogy!  She had me liking even a mean old woman that I doubt many authors would 

have been able to get me to like.  I even liked Julia, who I couldn't believe that I did like.  She wasn't the typical person I usually like in books.

Julia has a sense of mystery around her.  Her mother has committed suicide, she's left alone, and top it off with she now will be moving to Scotland in two months to work as a servant--compliments 

of her new guardian who remains nameless and faceless.

That means that Julia has 2 months to find a man to marry.  At first that doesn't seem to hard since 

she is technically betrothed.  One problem, though.  Edward, her secret lover, has had a change of 

heart since she last saw him.  Needless to say, they don't quite see eye to eye on most things anymore because of one major issue.  That issue has driven a permanent wedge between them until 

Julia realizes what mistakes she's made.

I really did like Lady Foxmore.  She was a brutal woman, but I did like her humor for some reason.    

I found it funny that she would send notes at night and wake up the household.  I also found it funny how she spoke to Elizabeth and her mother. 

This book has romance, but it also has suspense and mystery.  It was a book that keeps you wondering until the very last page.  I can't wait to see what the next 2 books consist of.  It'll be hard to beat this book!

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I received this book free from T'yndale Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.