Paige Turned by Erynn Mangum

I can easily relate to Paige. She's a girl who wants to do it all, tried to do it all, really wants to serve, but in the meantime, her family and friends suffer. She over-crowds her schedule and can't say "no".  Who can't relate to Paige?!  I think that's why this series is fun to read.  Through the pages, I sadly see myself.

Paige's boyfriend, Tyler, gets the short end of the stick when it comes to their relationship.  It's not that Paige doesn't' love Tyler.  It's more that life has crept in and people know she can't say "no".  With two weddings needing to be planned and no time to plan them, guilt starts to pile on.

On top of all of this, Paige has to sort out her feelings and try to explain to Tyler what really has happened with her ex.  Then she has to wonder what Tyler is hiding.

Honestly, the one thing I kept thinking about is how glad I am to be done with that stage.  I always hated that part of the beginning of relationships!

I liked the humor in this book.  It was a fun chick-lit book.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A few things about her:

So, if we were having this conversation in person, we would probably be hanging out at Starbucks or one of the cute coffeehouses in town. I’m nuts about all things coffee, I’m crazy about all things pink and girly, and I love, love, love the Food Network! I’m married to my best friend and the most amazing guy ever, Jon. He is amiable toward coffee, does not like anything pink or girly and tolerates the Food Network. So, we make a good match! In July 2010, we became parents to one of the funniest, cutest, sweetest little guys in the whole world (and nope, we aren’t biased at all!), our Nater-Tot, who is legally known as Nathan. Most days, I’m cleaning up messes, making goofy faces, trying to fit some writing in, and just LOVING the life that God has given me!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Despite her valiant efforts, Paige Alder seems stuck in chaos. Her new job as youth intern keeps her hopping from coffee shop to coffee shop all summer long, but at least she’s loving the one-on-one time she gets to spend with the girls. The unfortunate side-effect is that now, four weeks of laundry fills her apartment. Plus, she barely has time to help her sister and best friend with their weddings! And even worse? Something is definitely wrong between her and Tyler. She apologized for what he thought he saw happen with Luke. Can’t they move past it? Or could there be something he’s not telling her—something that could change everything?

If you'd like to read the first chapter of Paige Turned, go HERE.

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

A Promise in Pieces by Emily T. Wierenga

I really enjoyed this beautiful story by Emily T. Wierenga and the way that she brought this quilt to life.  This series is fun to read since I like to make quilts. I understand how each quilt has a story and lots of time of the quilter is spent pouring into the quilts.  I really enjoyed this story as the quilt tells a beautiful story that doesn't get brought up often, but just the right amount.

I liked Clara's courage but I could only imagine how her parents must have felt when they woke up and realized her choice.  I admired that she did what she believed to be right and wanted to truly help people.

I liked how the story shows how God redeems people, like Clara.  Clara makes a vow, but God has different plans.  He brings Clara to a place where she sees that love has risks, but it is worth it.

I like history, so I really enjoy the time frame that was chosen for this book. It's rich in history, yet not boring. It captures emotions of the time and perspectives from then. 

I also liked the style of writing that Emily T. Wierenga uses.  I can't place my finger on what is so different.  I just know that it's refreshing and different from what I have read lately.

Read more opinions by going to http://litfusegroup.com/author/EWierenga.

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Book Info

About Quilts of Love: Quilts tell stories of love and loss, hope and faith, tradition and new beginnings. The Quilts of Love series focuses on the women who quilted all of these things into their family histories. A new book releases each month and features contemporary and historical romances as well as women's fiction and the occasional light mystery. You will be drawn into the endearing characters of this series and be touched by their stories. About the book: A baby quilt touches many hearts as it travels from family-to-family and through generations. After the end of World War II, Clara Kirkpatrick returns from the Women's Army Corp to deliver a dying soldier's last wishes: convey his love to his young widow, Mattie, with apologies for the missed life they had planned to share. Struggling with her own post-war trauma, Clara thinks she's not prepared to handle the grief of this broken family. Yet upon meeting Mattie, and receiving a baby quilt that will never cuddle the soldier's baby, Clara vows to honor the sacrifices that family made. Now a labor and delivery nurse in her rural hometown, Clara wraps each new babe in the gifted quilt and later stitches the child's name into the cloth. As each new child is welcomed by the quilt, Clara begins to wonder whatever happened to Mattie---and if her own life would ever experience the love of a newborn. Little does she know that she will have the opportunity to re-gift the special quilt---years later and carrying even greater significance than when it was first bestowed. Learn more about this book and the series at the Quilts of Love website. About the Author: Emily Wierenga is a former editor, ghostwriter, freelance writer and staff journalist, a monthly columnist for The Christian Courier, and the author of Save My Children (Castle Quay Books, 2008), Chasing Silhouettes (Ampelon Publishing, 2012) and Mom in the Mirror (Rowman & Littlefield, 2013). Emily resides in Alberta, Canada. This is her first novel. Learn more about Emily at: http://www.emilywierenga.com

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

Daisies are Forever by Liz Tolsma

I have been very impressed with this entire series by Liz Tolsma.  The covers of these books have matched the story inside.  The dark colors match the dark time in history that these deal with.  The time was 1945 and is based off of real accounts of two women who shared their story of how they managed to survive WWII and the showdown of Prussia and Germany.

I really enjoy all of the history that is filled in this book. It's hard to read only because this was a hard time in history that no one ever wants to re-live. As expected from this time time in history, there is a lot of action.

The whole time I was reading, I kept thinking of how courageous Gisela is.  I couldn't help but wonder what I would have down with 2 small children.  At times, I wanted to cry when I stopped and remembered the truth behind these stories.  Then I couldn't stop thinking about how many had left America for Germany in hopes that Hitler was turning thing around, when in truth, it was headed for disaster.

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

A Sensible Arrangement by Tracie Peterson

What immediately caught my attention about this book is the cover.  After observing so many covers, I've come to really like the ones that have something that sets it apart from others. In this case, it's the beautiful contrasting colors and the slants on the title.  It's very appealing.

I really like Tracie Peterson.  I think I've read most of her books, so I'd say that she is one of my favorites!   She does a good job in capturing my attention right away.  I had a hard time putting this book in her new series, Lone Star Brides, down.

This book has it all, from romance to suspense.  The romance was along the lines that I felt would happen.  It doesn't mean that I didn't enjoy it, though!  Marty has answered the call to be a bride for a man she's never met.  It really doesn't matter to her, though.  She just wants to escape her past.  Jacob will be an honorable man towards Marty and take good care of her.  However, the one thing he's not looking for is love.  Of course, love is what they both discover.  That part is the expected.  The unexpected is what drives them together.

The end of the story doesn't resolve with an answer to the mystery surrounding the bank and the crime being committed.  I'm wondering if the mystery will continue to evolve throughout the series or if it will conclude in the next book. 

 

Read more opinions on this book by going to http://litfusegroup.com/author/tpeterson.

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About the Book

A Lone Star Brides book.
Marty Dandridge Olson is ready to leave behind the pain of the past.
Answering an advertisement for a “Lone Star bride,” she leaves her Texas ranch and heads to Denver to marry a man she doesn’t know.
Jake Wythe is the man waiting for her.
Burned by love, he marries now simply to satisfy the board of Morgan Bank, which believes a man of his standing in society should be wed. Together Jake and Marty agree they are done with romance and love and will make this nothing more than a marriage of convenience.
When missing money and a collapsing economy threaten his job, Jake’s yearning to return to ranching grows ever stronger, much to Marty’s dismay. But a fondness has grown between them, as well, further complicating matters.
What will happen when their relationship shifts in unexpected ways… and dreams and secrets collide?
Purchase a copy and learn more at Tracie’s website.

Tracie Peterson

Tracie Peterson is the award-winning author of over eighty novels, both historical and contemporary. Her avid research resonates in her stories, as seen in her bestselling Heirs of Montana, and Alaskan Quest series. Tracie and her family make their home in Montana. Visit Tracie's Web site at www.traciepeterson.com

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

Give Them Grace by Elyse M. Fitzpatrick and Jessica Thompson

I've learned that when it comes to parenting books and good Christian gospel-oriented nonfiction books, I can trust Crossway books. I have yet to be disappointed by any parenting book I've read from them yet!

I really liked this book.  It is gospel-oriented and really hits a part of parenting that I know I am weak at most times.  Grace.  It's a word that many church people and religious people throw around, but may or may not really know what it means.  I always want to, and pray to show more grace, but in the moment I fail more often than I like.  I was thankful for the encouragement that filled the pages.  Not only that, but I loved that I was constantly being pointed to the Gospel.

I did struggle a little bit with a few opinions in the book.  I do have my children seek forgiveness, whether it's truly heartfelt or not.  However, we do discuss it and my prayer is for a repentant heart.  I understand their reasoning, but I'm not so certain that I believe the same thing. 

There were a few other of their opinions that I didn't really agree with, but overall I liked the book.  I find that grace is one of those things that can be a bit difficult to balance.  Discipline is still needed, obedience is still expected, but grace must be given. Their take on obeying the first time struck me, too. I disagreed a bit on that, as well.

Amongst my disagreeing of certain things, I found this book to be encouraging and thought-provoking. 

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I received this hook free from Crossway in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

The Amish Groom by Mindy Starns Clark and Susan Meissner

I am hooked on this new series by Mindy Starnes Clark and Susan Meissner.  I like how this series focuses on the Men of Lancaster County.  I didn't realize how refreshing it was to read an Amish book from the perspective of a man!  Many of the books I've read are dealing with the woman's perspective.

The cover of this book is beautiful to me.  I like both the front and the back.  Inside, I found the pages to be interesting, too.  I liked the gray that was over the top of the pages to highlight the authors and page numbers.  Or some reason, it was enough of a difference that it was very appealing.

Tyler was an easy guy to like.  The story was very well-developed within the first part of the story and I felt an instant connection with him, despite never going through what he had been through.  My heart hurt for him and his relationship with his father and what all had happened in his life. I liked how his grandmother and grandfather and uncles and aunts raised him and loved on him.  His brother, Jake, was an easy-to-like guy. 

Rachel is a sweet Amish girl that I really wanted to see happy.  I wanted Tyler's life to be figured out and to see Rachel happy again.

I am looking forward to reading the next book, The Amish Blacksmith. It looks like it will be focused on Jake, which I'm glad!  I read it comes out in August....I hope that's true!

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ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

Mindy Starns Clark Mindy Starns Clark is the bestselling author of the inspirational Million Dollar Mysteries, the Smart Chick Mysteries, and three standalone mysteries, as well as the nonfiction books The House That Cleans Itself and A Pocket Guide to Amish Life. Her novels include A Penny for Your Thoughts, Don't Take Any Wooden Nickels, A Dime a Dozen, A Quarter for a Kiss, The Buck Stops Here, The Trouble with Tulip, Blind Dates Can Be Murder, Elementary, My Dear Watkins, Whispers of the Bayou, Shadows of Lancaster County, and Under the Cajun Moon, plus other books!

Mindy is also the author of numerous plays and musicals which have been performed all over the United States. She has written textbooks, articles, short stories, and more than 75 computer software manuals. A former singer and stand-up comedian, Mindy lives with her husband and two teenage daughters near Valley Forge, PA. She enjoys speaking to churches, civic groups, and libraries across the country. Her unique blend of humor and insight make her an audience favorite.

Susan Meissner is a multi-published author, speaker, and writing workshop leader with a background in community journalism. Her novels include The Shape of Mercy, named by Publishers Weekly as one of the 100 Best Novels of 2008 and a Carol Award winner. She is a pastor’s wife and the mother of four young adults. When she's not writing, Susan writes small group curriculum for her San Diego church. Visit Susan at her website: www.susanmeissner.com, on Twitter at @SusanMeissner, or at www.facebook.com/susan.meissner.

ABOUT THE BOOK

New from bestselling authors Mindy Starns Clark and Susan Meissner, The Amish Groom (Book 1 in The Men of Lancaster County series) explores the men of an Amish community in Lancaster County, how their Amish beliefs play out in their unique roles, and the women who change their lives.

Born to an ex-Amish mother and an Englisch father, 23-year-old Tyler Anderson was raised as a military kid until the age of 6, when his mom passed away. His dad, shipping off to yet another overseas post, placed Tyler in the care of his Amish grandparents, an arrangement that was supposed to be temporary. It lasted a lifetime.

Rachel Hoeck is the young woman waiting for Tyler’s proposal. She senses that though he loves her and wishes to make a commitment to her and his Amish beliefs, part of him still wonders whether an Amish lifestyle is truly for him. When an opportunity to connect with his father unexpectedly arises, a visit to California causes Tyler to question everything, including a future with Rachel. Will the new girl in his life, Lark, cause him to remain in the Englisch world? Or will he choose to be an Amish groom after all?

A poignant novel of hoping for romance and searching for identity, set in a beloved Amish community.


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

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

A Promise in Pieces by Emily T. Wierenga

I really enjoyed this beautiful story by Emily T. Wierenga and the way that she brought this quilt to life.  This series is fun to read since I like to make quilts. I understand how each quilt has a story and lots of time of the quilter is spent pouring into the quilts.  I really enjoyed this story as the quilt tells a beautiful story that doesn't get brought up often, but just the right amount.

I liked Clara's courage but I could only imagine how her parents must have felt when they woke up and realized her choice.  I admired that she did what she believed to be right and wanted to truly help people.

I liked how the story shows how God redeems people, like Clara.  Clara makes a vow, but God has different plans.  He brings Clara to a place where she sees that love has risks, but it is worth it.

I like history, so I really enjoy the time frame that was chosen for this book. It's rich in history, yet not boring. It captures emotions of the time and perspectives from then. 

I also liked the style of writing that Emily T. Wierenga uses.  I can't place my finger on what is so different.  I just know that it's refreshing and different from what I have read lately.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word from the Author:

I’m Emily, and I’m honored and humbled to meet you, friend. We’re all stumbling along on this journey and you can approach me about anything okay? I’m an open book, with dog-eared pages and a worn cover.

I’m mama to two boys, ages two and four, and married to a farm-boy-turned-math-teacher. We live in a small Dutch hamlet with three churches, one Co-Op and no stop lights. There are a lot of fields out here, there’s a lot of space and sky for breathing and running and writing.

We foster two boys in addition to our own two, and before I had kids, I took care of my Mum who had brain cancer. She fought back and has recovered, all glory to God, and my pastor-father still holds her hand while they go for daily walks.

I battled anorexia nervosa as a child, and then again as a newly married woman, and I write a lot about body image now and have a passion for women to learn to love themselves.

My husband and I have battled infertility and are currently trying to adopt our third child through the local Alberta government.

I hurt for the church, and believe in it, and pray for it, as I’ve grown up inside its walls and have heard its groanings.

I have a heart for Africa, particularly Uganda, and went there in January on a bloggers’ trip with World Help.

My favorite things to do are read literary novels, play guitar, snowboard, paint with oil and acrylics and hug my babies.

I am the author of two books on eating disorders, a novel releasing this spring, and a memoir coming out this summer.

I hope you’ll connect with me on FB: https://www.facebook.com/emilytwierenga, or if you prefer, Twitter: @emily_wierenga. I’d love to have a virtual glass of wine, or cup of coffee, with you.

Peace to you friends,

e.

ABOUT THE BOOK

After the end of World War II, Clara Kirkpatrick returns from the Women’s Army Corp to deliver a dying soldier’s last wishes: convey his love to his young widow, Mattie, with apologies for the missed life they had planned to share.

Struggling with her own post-war trauma, Clara thinks she’s not prepared to handle the grief of this broken family. Yet upon meeting Mattie, and receiving a baby quilt that will never cuddle the soldier’s baby, Clara vows to honor the sacrifices that family made.

Now a labor and delivery nurse in her rural hometown, Clara wraps each new babe in the gifted quilt and later stitches the child’s name into the cloth. As each new child is welcomed by the quilt, Clara begins to wonder whatever happened to Mattie—and if her own life would ever experience the love of a newborn. Little does she know that she will have the opportunity to re-gift the special quilt—years later and carrying even greater significance than when it was first bestowed.

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Promise in Pieces, go HERE.

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

Sincerely Yours by Jane Kirkpatrick, Amanda Cabot, Laurie Alice Eakes, & Ann Shorey

Imagine getting a letter that changes your life.  That's exactly what happens throughout each of these short stories.  The history that is involved in these stories is also very interesting.  I find the time frame of these stories fascinating and really capture my interest.

I have read many books by each of these authors.  I always look to read the books that are by these ladies because I know they can never disappoint me!  I didn't like one story over another.  Since each story was different, they each had something different to offer the readers. I liked the humor and romance.

I think the challenge that plagues novellas is how to make the story develop in such a short time frame.  Some stories end up feeling not pulled together or rushed.  However, I never felt that way about these.  I felt they were well-developed and ended at just the right time.

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

Lip Reading by Harry Kraus

I really enjoy a good medical fiction book!  I'm not certain how I missed Harry Kraus, but now that I've discovered him, I'm going to be hunting down the rest of his books.  The cover threw me for a loop because I couldn't tell what kind of book it was.  After the first chapter, the lips on the cover make more sense.  I like the cover, but I think it has a little too much going on. It is a bit crowded, but that's just my opinion.  I do like the story, though.

Becca Jackson took a while to grow on me.  I didn't like her at first, to be honest.  I was glad she was kidnapped! The whole time I was reading, though, I kept wondering if this is how pharmaceutical companies really are.  I don't know much about them, but if it is, that's really sad.  I was glad when Becca came face to face with what her drugs did.

Noah seemed like a sweetheart and one that was easy to like.  His concern over Becca and how he laid his own feelings aside were impressive.

The ending was not what I expected to happen. It was a good ending, but not what I thought would happen.  There were lots of twists and turns in this book.  It's a page turner and enraptured me from beginning to end.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word from Harry:

I started writing my first novel during my last year of surgery training at UK. I was a chief resident, and started writing Stainless Steal Hearts in a call room at the Veteran's Administration Hospital in Lexington. It was a crazy time to write! I had a very demanding schedule, often spending days and nights in the hospital. I had two sons at that time, and I recognized the wisdom in my wife's urging: "Now doesn't seem the right time for this dream."

My experience as a writer is far from typical. Having received my formal training in biology and chemistry and medicine, my only preparation for a writing career was a love for reading. The longest thing I'd written before my first novel was a term paper in undergraduate school. My first novel was accepted by Crossway Books and published in 1994, and it wasn't until after I had FOUR published novels that I even opened a book of instruction about the craft of writing fiction. This is not what I recommend to others! Yes, I was successful, but I was bending the "rules" without knowing it. I had a natural talent for plotting, but I realize my initial success may have stunted my growth as a writer. I'd have made faster progress if I'd have gone to the fiction teachers sooner.

I have three sons: Joel, Evan, and Samuel. Look closely in all of my books and you'll see them there. My lovely wife, Kris, provides the basic composition for all those beautiful, athletic, dedicated women in my novels.

ABOUT THE BOOK

She Could Save Millions, or Save Herself

She just needs a little longer. She’s really close. Dr. Rebecca Jackson, a medical researcher, stands on the verge of a breakthrough that will transform medicine. But she soon discovers the reason behind the miraculous progress in her research, and it leaves her with a nearly impossible choice . . . and little time to decide. More than her research is at stake. And more threatens it than this latest revelation. Something she’s tried hard to cover up. There is a high cost to some things in medicine and it’s not always the patient who pays. Can Rebecca find the faith and wisdom she needs to make the right call? The clock is ticking and the pressure is on.


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

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

The Kissing Bridge by Tricia Goyer

I am impressed with the amount of books Tricia Goyer writes in a year.  She is an excellent writer and switches from various genres in fiction to non-fiction easily.

I really like this series.  The name of the series and the covers drove me to the start of this series and it has made me not want to stop reading the series now until it's completed!  I like how familiar characters come back into the story, but new characters and stories are introduced.

Tricia Goyer painted a beautiful picture of the town Kootenai.  I felt like I was taking part in a mini-vacation every time I jumped into this story thanks to the beautiful scenery. 

I truly liked Rebecca and Caleb and their determination and adventure.  I liked how Rebecca had a heart to help even the Englisch people, as well as the Amish.  Romance was in the book, but it was just the right amount.  I felt like I was watching a relationship bloom before my eyes.

Can't wait to see what's next for Tricia Goyer.   I know she has some in the works!

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I received this book free from Zondervan and Booklook program in exchange for my honest opinion of this book. 

Hope Runs by Claire Diaz-Ortiz & Samuel Ikua Gachagua

I appreciate this fresh perspective that Hope Runs brings to their readers.  After reading that Hope Runs had an article in Runner's World, that reminded me that's where I had first read about this organization.

Claire is a person that I admire.  She isn't letting fear or anything stop her from her mission given to her.  She has invested her life selflessly.  I include her friend Lara in this, too.  The whole paper scenario was a little mind-boggling to me.  My children, and myself included, go through lots of paper a day without a second thought.  It was pitiful to think of that little girl with her hand under the door asking for paper. I know she was being used, to get paper, but it would be awfully had to say no!

It puzzles me where Sammy's mother has gone.  I can't imagine how she just left them without ever coming home.  To read Sammy's sister's words to her aunt brought tears to my eyes.  I can't imagine how much she has wrestled with her mom's absence.  The questions Sammy and his family have must be something they always battle with. 

Sammy and his friend are both ones that you can't help but love.  I am so glad he was given the opportunities he had.  He worked hard and never forgot where he came from.  I liked hearing his opinions on those who come thinking they are doing good for a week, but in fact aren't doing much.  They need long-term people and commitments.  I liked how Claire shares some of the parenting struggles with discipline.  It would have to be a hard thing to jump into, but even harder because the culture is so different so each country sees things differently.

I hope to hear more about Claire and Sammy and Lara.  I can't wait to see how Sammy impacts Kenya!

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

Balanced by Tricia Goyer

I don't know a woman I have talked to lately who has not mentioned that their life needs more balance.  I feel like that is a common thing I'm striving for in my household constantly!

I appreciated this book because I think it reminded me that my life isn't going to look like someone else's.  I like how Tricia is so honest and shares how she does her day with help from babysitters and others. Her reminder that no one can do it all was something I need to hear often.

I also like how she asked how often do you just enjoy being with your children.  I sometimes get wrapped up in everything else and don't get to play a lot with them daily.  I get to the end of the day and wonder where the day went. 

Another part I liked was how she said that our problem is that we fall before we form.  "Balance means forming before filling.". She then goes on to give an example of how to form your calendar before you fill it. I think that was my favorite section and extremely helpful for me.

I appreciate how this isn't a self-help book.  I think it's a reminder of living intentionally and being honest with yourself and your activities, as well as those activities that you sign your family up for.  There are many good things, but they may not be the best for your family.

Read more reviews on this book by going to http://litfusegroup.com/author/tgoyer.

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

What Follows After by Dan Walsh

I enjoy reading any book by Dan Walsh. He always reminds me of Nicholas Sparks and I'm so glad to have a Christian novel that reads so much like his books.  This was a book that I was not expecting because of the deep topic.  I was impressed that Walsh as able to get inside the mind of a little child so easily and make it read interestingly to an adult.

I absolutely cannot imagine what life was like for the Harrison's as they longed for their little Timmy to be returned.  It was so sad to read, but I was thankful for the ending.  I was a little surprised about how some marriages were back then.  I knew that June Cleaver and other women were depictions of that time and was a little shocked that many would lie about their marriage because of the stigma of divorce.  Divorce is so common now that many barely give it a second thought.  I liked watching Scott fight for his marriage.

I found the historical time frame quite fascinating. It was scary to think of how close we came to having WWIII and on our own soil.  1962 was a time when the world was changing and no one knew the direction it was headed.

Dan Walsh adds his own note to the book and I think it shed extra light onto this book and why he chose 1962.  It was interesting that many chose to be Christians in the pew but not let Jesus be reflected in their daily lives.  I know that still happens but it's hard to imagine at times when I think of how many preachers are preaching the Gospel lived out to bring glory to God through every moment in our lives and to live with eternity in mind. 

I liked how all of these things weaved themselves seamlessly through the pages of this book.  The changes never felt abrupt but transitioned well between the many different characters.

Oh, and I love this cover.  Beautifully done!

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

Maybelle in Stitches by Joyce Magnin

I found the storyline of this book very rich and fascinating.  I can't say that I like World War II because it was an absolutely horrid war.  However, it is a good setting for a story.  I really liked the how the quilt not only tells a present story, but also a past story.


The past story is a reminder of Maybelle's mother, as she finds this unfinished quilt in her mother's closet. It's also a reminder that she will constantly look at and remember the time, emotions, and thoughts she had while her husband was lost at war.

At one point, I became overwhelmed by all the problems and bad news this circle of quilters were receiving!  I know life can be like that at times, but I felt like I just wanted them to have a moment to breathe.  My heart sunk to know Maybelle's husband and the love of her life was missing.  I can not possibly begin to imagine all that you feel when you hear news like that, although I'm well aware that may through the years know exactly what that feels like.

I like the Quilts of Love series and reading how each quilt tells it's own story.  I like reading the different authors, too, because they bring new styles of writing and new stories that make me want to read every one of these books in the series.

Read more reviews on this book at http://litfusegroup.com/author/JMagnin.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A word from the Author:

I am the author of seven novels. Five adult novels and two middle grade readers. I never wanted to do anything else but write and every day I wake up astonished that I get to do what I always dreamed about. My days are filled with words and images along with the usual family stuff. I have three children, Rebekah who is married to Joshua. They have three of the most adorable boys on the planet, Lemuel, Cedar and Soren. My daughter Emily Kate is a lovely young woman anthropologist and my son Adam is fourteen and a student--he's a genius who loves frogs and lizards and fish and plants. He amazes me.

I have never eaten a scallop. I love cream soda. Drink way too much coffee. I do not like elevators but I do enjoy needle arts and of course books. I prefer jazz over country (no offense), milk chocolate over dark, but not roller coasters although my life has often resembled a roller coaster ride.

One of my life's desires is to meet Amy Grant so I can tell her she saved my life.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Maybelle can’t sew. But when she finds an unfinished quilt in the attic of her mother’s house, she gets the crazy idea to complete it. At first, it’s just a way to fill the lonely nights while her husband, staff sergeant Holden Kanzinzki, is away fighting in World War II.

Yet when Maybelle discovers that the quilt is made from scraps of material that can be traced back through her family heritage, the project is suddenly much more important. Then word comes that Holden is missing in action, and with little else to do, Maybelle clings to the quilt as much as to the hope that her husband is still alive. As neighborhood friends gather around Maybelle to help her through the unknown days and nights ahead, it is the quilt that becomes a symbol of her unflagging belief that Holden will return—to her, to their home, and to their quilt-covered bed.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Maybelle In Stitches, 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.

Know Orphans by Rick Morton

I knew I wanted to read this book because I had read Orphanology and was really challenged by it.  Rick Morton has a heart for the fatherless and desires to see Christians everywhere involved in ministering to the fatherless.  I understand his reasons for adopting cross-culturally, but since I work with a lot of kids in the United States, I feel that the kids here need a home too.  I don't think he ever disagrees, but he does talk about adopting those from other countries the most. 

I like how the book is broken up.  It gives practical ideas on how to start an orphan-care ministry at your church. I like how he reminds readers to start with prayer because that's the only way to change hearts.  We can't do it!

He then describes who are considered orphans and how to best minister to them in the orphan-care ministries.  He moves to adopting among the nations and then he has a whole chapter on criticism.  I found that chapter really helpful, since that's a difficult area for me.

I really liked how he prepares you for bringing your child home and what to do once you are home.  I liked his honesty and his wisdom he shares with his readers, as he has "been there done that and I'm guessing would do it again in a heartbeat!"

I was introduced to WorldCrafts.org last year and bought some things from them.  I love to give and get unique gifts and what an even greater thought is that what I just purchased goes to help someone else who so desperately needs help.

Read more reviews on this book by going to http://litfusegroup.com/author/rmorton.

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Book Info

About the book: The global orphan crisis is complex. The church's response should be comprehensive, but is it? In this provocative follow-up to Orphanology, author Rick Morton provides the framework for families and churches to have a gospel-centered response to the growing global issue of orphan care. KnowOrphans addresses three distinct areas associated with global orphanology. Delving deeper into the criticisms of the movement, the need for reform, and what families can expect, author Rick Morton helps shape realistic perceptions of the challenges and rewards adoptive parents face in transnational adoptions. Through illuminating the work internationally adoptive families can expect, KnowOrphans offers solutions for the church in remedying the ills and deficiencies surrounding the church's role in equipping and supporting families before, during, and after the adoption process. Knowing that the church's response and attitude should be one that goes beyond adoption, KnowOrphans also addresses the complexities of how Christians are to respond ethically, compassionately, and comprehensively to the biblical call to care for orphans. KnowOrphans is the next step in conversation as this evangelically based movement of orphan care matures and begins to live out James 1:27 globally. Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/uLVL2 About the Author: Rick Morton is the father of three transnational adopted children and coauthor of the popular book Orphanology: Awakening to Gospel-Centered Adoption and Orphan Care. His dedication to the plight of orphans extends beyond his own family. The Mortons were cofounders of Promise 139, an international orphan-hosting ministry based in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. An inspiring speaker for the gospel to be expressed by the church living out God's heart for the fatherless, Rick presents at adoption and orphan-care conferences and pastor's conferences. Rick and his family live in the Greater Memphis area. Learn more about Rick at: http://www.rickmortononline.com

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I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group and New Hope Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

A Stillness of Chimes by Meg Moseley

I am new to Meg Moseley but I was intrigued by the book because of the cover. I'm not certain why I was drawn to it so much, but it kept standing out to me, so I went with it.  Most books are predictable in the sense that you kind of have an idea as to how they are going to end.  Every time I thought I knew, it turned out that I was wrong.  I liked the unexpected ending and the revelations in between.

I appreciated that Meg took a hard issues of trauma from the war and incorporated it into her book.  I haven't read very many fiction books that do that, but I appreciate it.  It's a real problem that gets overlooked a lot.  I felt bad for Laura's family and their search.  I kept trying to imagine how I would feel with so many unexplained answers.  I'm not certain I could just give up if I had any hope that my Dad was okay. 

This isn't a fast paced book.  It is a book that if you are patient, you will get to the end and look back and say that it's a very well-written story. They mystery surrounding Laura's dad is what makes you keep turning the pages.... and of course there's romance.

 

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

Sing for Me by Karen Halvorsen Schreck

If there's a book that includes music and history, I'm all in!  Being a music therapist, I love nothing more than sharing music with others and watching it help to change lives.  I appreciated that aspect so much in this book.  I was really impressed with this début novel by Karen Halvorson Schreck.  It's always a little scary and exciting for me when I read a new author.  I like the freshness she brings and appreciate all of the digging she did with the history.

The book grabbed me from the beginning, but I was really sold from the cover and the title of the book.  I knew I was in for the long haul! However, I can see that this book may be a bit slow moving for certain people and they might would want to put it down. I encourage you not to! It really is good from start to finish, but the pace does pick up as you get more into the story.

Despite the trials Rose faces in this major decision she has to make about music and her future, I still find it relevant today.  Ultimately, she had to decide if she was going to obey God of if she was going to listen to the criticism and rules of man instead.  All I kept thinking about was how often we let men's words stop us and we cease to fulfill God's purpose for us. 

I'm looking forward to seeing what else this author has to share with us.  It's a fresh story from a new author!

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

Fearless Hope by Serena B. Miller

I have enjoyed this series by Serena B. Miller.  Her writing includes romance, but they are very inspirational and hook the reader on the first page.  I also like the cover of this book. It is beautifully done!

I'll start my review by saying I wanted to give Titus a good talking to, as well!  I was so mad at him when the first chapter ended.  If he had only listened to his wife!  I admired her submission to him and how she let the subject drop, but I can only imagine how furious I would be and then completely heartbroken after what happened to him.

In the opening chapters, I was a little curious how Logan and Hope would end up meeting and how in the world he would let his fiancée go.  I never really liked her anyway, so I was anxious for her to leave.  I couldn't imagine how these two would cross paths. I loved how she creatively wrote their love story.

I liked Aunt Claire, too.  When Hope was at her lowest, Claire came to her rescue to push her.  I liked how raw Hope's emotions were and I felt like I was walking this road with her.  I would be thankful for an Aunt Claire in my life, even though I'd probably be mad at her a lot, too!

There were some light humor scenes in this book, too, which I appreciated.  There's also a deep revelation of Logan's past.  I like how the revelation comes to pass starting in the beginning of the book.

I really like the story of a real Amish wedding.  I'm always so fascinated by the Amish lifestyle and really liked this in-depth look at what a real wedding looks like.  It's neat how books are now starting to come with a little extra surprises.

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

 
 

Dancing with Fireflies by Denise Hunter

I was hooked on this book from the very beginning.  I hated the opening because I felt so bad for Jade. However, I love that this topic was written about in a fiction book. I think so may times fiction books are used to help minister to people, just as much as a nonfiction book on this topic.

I admired Jade and Daniel throughout this book.  I even liked Jade's parents and their gracious response to Jade's life-changing news.  I'm not certain I would have responded the same way as Jade did by keeping it secret, but it didn't make me respect her any less. 

Daniel was amazing.  He supported Jade throughout the entire time, despite how he thought Jade felt different for him.  He was a man that I would have been thrilled to have in my home and with my daughter.  Crazy thing to say about a politician!

I couldn't stand Daniel's parents.  They were absolutely horrible to Jade in the middle of the book and I just wanted to kick them out of the house!  Sadly, I know people are like that, but I admired Daniel even more after that whole confrontational event.

My favorite thing about Denise Hunter is that she doesn't shy away from hard topics, even in her romance novels.  I like the redemption at the end, despite the horrid start.

To read more reviews on this book, go to http://litfusegroup.com/author/dhunter.

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Book Info

About the book: A Chapel Springs Romance Jade returns home to Chapel Springs after years of protecting her fragile heart. Then along comes Daniel, making her long to dance again. Creative and complicated, Jade McKinley felt like a weed in a rose garden growing up in Chapel Springs. When she left, she thought she'd never look back. But now, pregnant, alone, and broke, she has no other choice but to return. The mayor of Chapel Springs, Daniel Dawson, has been an honorary member of the McKinley family for years. While his own home life was almost non-existent, Daniel fit right into the boisterous McKinley family. He's loved Jade for years, but she always saw him as a big brother. Now that she's back, his feelings are stronger than ever. As Jade attempts to settle in, nothing feels right. God seems far away, she's hiding secrets from her family, and she's strangely attracted to the man who's always called her "squirt." Finding her way home may prove more difficult than she imagined. Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/uJ6OD About the Author: Denise Hunter is an internationally published best-selling author. Her books have won The Holt Medallion Award, The Reader's Choice Award, The Foreword Book of the Year Award, and was a RITA finalist. In 1996, inspired by the death of her grandfather, Denise began her first book, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her husband says he inspires all of her romantic stories, but Denise insists a good imagination helps, too. When Denise isn't writing, she's busy raising three heroes-in-the-making with her husband. Learn more about Denise at: http://www.denisehunterbooks.com

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

Treasuring Christ When Your Hands are Full by Gloria Furman

Gloria Furman is probably in the top 2 of my favorite authors on motherhood.  I'm drawn to the authors who don't look at motherhood as a chore, but looks to the Scriptures as a blessing.  Everyone knows motherhood is hard.  However, keeping the eternal focus is a lot harder and is where I'd say most moms need encouragement.  I know I do!

I had my journal beside me while I was reading this book.  There were so many things in it that I wanted to be sure to write down, so when I was discouraged, I could find it quickly.  I saw that Crossway is offering a free study guide along with this book. I downloaded it, but haven't done it, yet.  I really want to, though.

I think this would be a perfect women's group book.  What mother doesn't need to be reminded of the Gospel and how it relates to parenting and the Gospel?!  With summer coming up and the kids around more than normal, I'd dare say this release is perfect timing.

The book itself is very short and the chapters are short. I got to the end and wanted more!  I love how everything points to Christ.  When I finished reading a chapter, all I wanted to do was dive into God's Word even more. 

If you're looking for a step-by-step checklist parenting book, this isn't what you're looking for.  However, I think once you are reminded of the Gospel in parenting, you'll find you don't need a checklist.  Without your heart centered on Christ, you can't expect the same from your child's.  Letting God change you and remind you of your focus helps in those mundane, everyday tasks that are quite often challenging and overwhelming.

I can't wait for another book by Gloria.  Until then, I guess I'll just have to read her blog!

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