Anchor in the Storm by Sarah Sundin

Sarah Sundin makes my list as one of my favorite historical fiction authors. I have really enjoyed reading about the wars through fictional characters. She does an excellent job at making the historical time period come alive while including fictional characters to tell the story. I learn something new in each of her books, which is one reason I like her. She does her research, but writes it in such a way that the book never feels too heavy with history. She blends her fiction work quiet nicely.

Book #2 focuses on World War 2. I had to pause at several sections of the book because it is so hard for me to still wrap my mind around the pain and worry that almost everyone felt since each person was greatly affected by the war. Sarah Sundin even states that this book is set "during the darkest days of the war." I appreciate that her story tells the story of those dark days and that she takes the reader into the hurt and pain so many experienced.

Arch and Lillian are not new characters to the series, but they are now the main characters in this book. However, if you haven't read it then you will not be missing any huge details. (Of course, you should still definitely read the first book in this series! It was great, too!) 

One of the bigger surprises for me was the suspenseful part of the story. I knew it would be full of suspense with the war playing out. However, I didn't not expect there to be a whole other reason for the suspense. She did a good job at not dragging it out too long but gave the reader just enough to make them say "just one more chapter."

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

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ANCHOR IN THE STORM BY SARAH SUNDIN | BLOG TOUR AND GIVEAWAY

Author: Sarah Sundin

In a time of sacrifice, what price can one put on true love? Pharmacist Lillian Avery and Ensign Archer Vandenberg are about to find out in Sarah Sundin’s new book, Anchor in the Storm. During the darkest days of the war, Arch’s destroyer hunts German U-boats in vain as the submarines sink dozens of merchant ships along the East Coast. Still shaken by battles at sea, Arch notices his men also struggle with their nerves—and with drowsiness. Could there be a link to the large prescriptions Lillian has been filling? As the danger rises on both land and sea, the two must work together to answer that question. But can Arch ever earn Lillian’s trust and affection?

Celebrate the release of Sarah’s Anchor in the Storm by entering to win her All Hands on Deck Prize Pack!

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A signed copy of Anchor in the Storm
• Nautical tote bag lined with anchor fabric
• Anchor necklace made from copper reclaimed from the USS Constitution in Boston during restoration
• 365 Devotions for Hope by Karen Whiting
• Shine: Nautical Inspirational Adult Coloring Book
• “Hope Anchors the Soul” journal
• Set of two nautical tea towels

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry! The giveaway ends on June 8th. The winner will be announced June 9th on Sarah’s blog.

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Anchor in the Storm (Revell, May 2016)

One plucky female pharmacist + one high-society naval officer = romance—and danger

For plucky Lillian Avery, America’s entry into World War II means a chance to prove herself as a pharmacist in Boston. The challenges of her new job energize her. But society boy Ensign Archer Vandenberg’s attentions only annoy–even if he is her brother’s best friend.

During the darkest days of the war, Arch’s destroyer hunts German U-boats in vain as the submarines sink dozens of merchant ships along the East Coast. Still shaken by battles at sea, Arch notices his men also struggle with their nerves–and with drowsiness. Could there be a link to the large prescriptions for sedatives Lillian has filled? The two work together to answer that question, but can Arch ever earn Lillian’s trust and affection?

Sarah Sundin brings World War II to life, offering readers an intense experience they won’t soon forget.

Learn more and purchase a copy.

Sarah Sundin is the author of eight historical novels, including "Anchor in the Storm." Her novel "Through Waters Deep" was named to Booklist’s “101 Best Romance Novels of the Last 10 Years,” and her novella “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” in "Where Treetops Glisten" was a finalist for the 2015 Carol Award. A mother of three, Sarah lives in California, works on-call as a hospital pharmacist, and teaches Sunday school.

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

The Red Door Inn by Liz Johnson

It has been some time since I've read a book and have had such a hard time getting it out of my head once I finished it. I absolutely cannot wait for the second book to come out already. I am hooked, needless to say!

Who doesn't like to read a book with the setting of Prince Edward Island. I immediately went straight to thinking about Anne of Greene Gables and I loved how she tied Montgomery into this book. I think that's another reason this book was one of my favorites that I've read in a while. I wish I could have saved it to read on the beach. If only book 2 would come out this summer!

Marie Carrington is a character that had me a little confused at the beginning. I obviously knew something had gone on in her life in order for her to react to people in a different way. I appreciated how Liz Johnson slowly revealed Marie's history and how she brought two completely broken people into a relationship. Seth Sloane has been deeply hurt by a woman and he can't seem to get past her.

Considering I haven't read any other books by Liz Johnson, I must say that I am very impressed by her writing style. She brought two people together with hurts and messiness. It very easily could have been one of those books where the drama is drawn out so much that it leaves the reader frustrated and ready for it. However, it was perfectly scripted to where there was enough suspense and tension for just the right amount of time. Now I want to discover what I've missed by reading the rest of her books! Seriously, though.... book 2 should come out soon!

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

Where She Belongs by Johnnie Alexander

This is the first book that I have read by Johnnie Alexander and I am already anxiously awaiting her next book to come out in the Misty Willow Series. I was instantly hooked within the first few pages of the book and absolutely enjoyed every character in the story.

AJ was probably my favorite because he was that knight in shining armor. He had dealt with a lot, suffered many loses, and been punished but he had never lost his heart for doing the right thing. In fact, it was the right thing that could cost him the thing that he wanted most in this world.

Brett. I was surprised to find my heart turning a little towards him by the end. I was glad to see that the next book picks up on his story because he has so much to tell. He is that boy that can swing either way. He's been that wild boy that charms, but is learning that may not be what he truly wants. I'm excited to see what way he chooses next.

Brett's sister just frustrated me. I'm hoping more of her story will be picked up in later books, as well. All three of these characters have suffered loss and each have their own way of protecting their hearts so they don't get hurt again. She just comes across as very hurtful, even to her family.

Shelby and her girls are the sweetest. I would have liked to know more about her past marriage and have been intrigued by what her deceased husband was like and what their marriage was like. It hinted at the fact that there were some problems, but I would have liked to know more about that. Who knows.... maybe that will be revealed later in the series, too. Family is very important to me, so I loved that quality about Shelby. Her grandparents were very dear to her and their house wasn't just a house to her. It held so many memories and she wanted those memories for her children.

This was a beautiful story of making hard choices, forgiveness, and new beginnings. The characters also wrestle with what God has planned for them, whether it is in the U.S. or on the mission field.

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Where She Belongs by Johnnie Alexander Can love redeem a broken past? Shelby Kincaid is ready to move forward after the death of her husband left her devastated. With high hopes for the future, she longs to purchase her family's homestead, Misty Willow, so she can raise her young daughters in the only place she ever truly belonged. She plans to transform the abandoned house into the perfect home of her memories. But she has her work cut out for her. AJ Sullivan never wanted Shelby's family homestead in the first place. His grandfather left it to him as punishment for not following his wishes, and he's let it fall into ruin. AJ's more than happy to unload it to this spitfire of a woman. But even after angry exchanges over the state of the house, he can't get her off his mind. With writing that evokes a strong sense of place and family history, Johnnie Alexander deftly explores the ties that bind us to home--and the irresistible forces that draw us to each other. ______________________________________________________ Johnnie Alexander is the award-winning author of Where Treasure Hides. Johnnie is an accomplished essayist and poet whose work has appeared in the Guideposts anthology A Cup of Christmas Cheer. In addition to writing, she enjoys reading, spending time with her grandchildren, and taking road trips. She lives near Memphis, Tennessee.

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

Taming the To-Do List by Glynnis Whitwer

First of all, I should thank Glynnis Whitwer for helping me to procrastinate for just a little longer on a few tasks I've dreaded doing. In fact, within the time frame of reading this book, I put off cleaning bathrooms, mopping, and I do believe there was a day I put off doing the dishes! My excuse was perfect: once I finish reading this book, I'll be better at marking those tasks off my to-do list. So from the bottom of my heart (and much to my husband's dismay), thank you!

In all seriousness, I had first looked forward to this book because I thought it would help me to become more efficient at the tasks that I juggle everyday. For example, I thought maybe there would be some divine idea that would shine a light on how to make my bathrooms shinier much faster or help me not to look at sweeping as such a chore to loathe. Or perhaps it would show me where that magic fairy was that could help me put up my clothes that have now sat in the laundry basket for um....3 weeks. This book did none of that.

However, it did tell my what the root of my problem is. It revealed to me why I look at my mess and just shut down instead of becoming motivated to do it all. It explains why I feel so much more progress when I write down every little step so that I can mark it off. It also told me why I figure that if I can't do my best then I shouldn't even start. I am a procrastinator. Of course, I knew I was in small ways, but I really didn't think it carried over to housework. I was wrong!

I really appreciated her tips of journaling out a huge master to-do list and then making it one-step tasks vs. multiple-step tasks. I'm the one with sticky notes dividing up my other sticky notes. This sounded like a glorious idea to me, and one that I'm already taking to heart.

The book does include some soul-searching and action steps. I found this helpful because I have a tendency to keep on breezing through the book and forgetting some of the ideas the book mentioned.

If you're a procrastinator or don't have a clue if you are or not, this book is for you! Seriously. Don't procrastinate in getting this book. It is a one-step decision to go to the store and get it or go online and add it to your cart.

Oh, and it has the cutest cover that makes every task-oriented person want to grab this book and devour it right away. I mean, who doesn't love a check list as a cover?!

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

Through Waters Deep by Sarah Sundin

If I were to name a favorite author in the historical fiction category, it would definitely be Sarah Sundin. Her books are full of history and you can tell she does her research well before she starts writing. I have read many of her books and have enjoyed each one so far.

Through Waters Deep didn't disappoint me at all. The first book in her new series, Waves of Freedom, focuses its time in 1941. The reader is introduced to, and instantly hooked on, Jim and Mary. I was captured by this story from the first page.

I found this book to be relative to today in some ways. For instance, America didn't really expect or believe what was going on in the European countries. History is repeating itself in some ways today and you can see a little of that parallel in this book. It definitely made me think about the years we are living in now.

I couldn't help but respect Jim and Mary as their story unfolded. They learn of a sabotage and they know they have to stop it and figure out who is behind it. I really liked the suspense that Sarah Sundin put into this book. I wasn't necessarily expecting it, since I don't usually read the synopsis of the book that is placed on the back of the book. I like the element of surprise.

If I had to choose a favorite character, it would be Mary. She was strong, courageous, and not without things that she had to overcome. She had the fear, but also knew that fear couldn't paralyze her if she was going to be able to save lives. When placed in a dangerous situation, she acted.

I'm really looking forward to the next book in this series. What a wonderful book this was!

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

Through Waters Deep by Sarah Sundin

If I were to name a favorite author in the historical fiction category, it would definitely be Sarah Sundin. Her books are full of history and you can tell she does her research well before she starts writing. I have read many of her books and have enjoyed each one so far.

Through Waters Deep didn't disappoint me at all. The first book in her new series, Waves of Freedom, focuses its time in 1941. The reader is introduced to, and instantly hooked on, Jim and Mary. I was captured by this story from the first page.

I found this book to be relative to today in some ways. For instance, America didn't really expect or believe what was going on in the European countries. History is repeating itself in some ways today and you can see a little of that parallel in this book. It definitely made me think about the years we are living in now.

I couldn't help but respect Jim and Mary as their story unfolded. They learn of a sabotage and they know they have to stop it and figure out who is behind it. I really liked the suspense that Sarah Sundin put into this book. I wasn't necessarily expecting it, since I don't usually read the synopsis of the book that is placed on the back of the book. I like the element of surprise.

If I had to choose a favorite character, it would be Mary. She was strong, courageous, and not without things that she had to overcome. She had the fear, but also knew that fear couldn't paralyze her if she was going to be able to save lives. When placed in a dangerous situation, she acted.

I'm really looking forward to the next book in this series. What a wonderful book this was! Don't just take my word for it, though. Check out what others thought at http://litfusegroup.com/author/SSundin.

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Through Waters Deep (Revell, August 2015)
It is 1941 and America teeters on the brink of war.
Outgoing naval officer Ensign Jim Avery escorts British convoys across the North Atlantic in a brand-new destroyer, the USS Atwood. Back on shore, Boston Navy Yard secretary Mary Stirling does her work quietly and efficiently, happy to be out of the limelight. Yet, despite her reserved nature, she never could back down from a challenge. When evidence of sabotage on the Atwood is found, Jim and Mary must work together to uncover the culprit. A bewildering maze of suspects emerges, and Mary is dismayed to find that even someone close to her is under suspicion. With the increasing pressure, Jim and Mary find that many new challenges–and dangers–await them.
Sarah Sundin takes readers to the tense months before the US entered WWII. Readers will encounter German U-boats and torpedoes, along with the explosive power of true love, in this hopeful and romantic story.
Learn more and purchase a copy.

Sarah Sundin

Sarah Sundin is the author of "With Every Letter," "On Distant Shores," "In Perfect Time," and the Wings of Glory series. In 2014, "On Distant Shores" was a finalist for the Golden Scroll Awards from both AWSA and the Christian Authors Network. In 2011, Sarah received the Writer of the Year Award at the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference. A graduate of UC San Francisco School of Pharmacy, she works on call as a hospital pharmacist. During WWII, her grandfather served as a pharmacist's mate (medic) in the Navy and her great-uncle flew with the US Eighth Air Force in England. Sarah lives in California with her husband and three children.

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

Hope Harbor by Irene Hannon

If you would have asked me a few years ago if I was a fan of Irene Hannon's books, I would have said "no." In fact, I remember reading a few and then realizing they weren't in my preferred genre. It wasn't that they weren't great stories, but I didn't like the mystery. I'll admit it. I'm easily scared so I have to guard my mind more so than others. With that said, I decided to give her previous series a try after reading the synopsis of the book. I loved that series and realized that I do enjoy Irene Hannon! I'm so glad I gave her a second chance. This book does have some mystery, but I think the romance and the main message of the book spoke louder to me than the mystery. I really enjoyed this book and how she has once again told a beautiful story of  forgiveness.


Michael and Tracy have experienced what it feels like to have their heart ripped out of their chest... something that many people can relate to. They have both lost their spouse and have to figure out how to move on. They both deal with their grief in different ways.

I appreciated how Hannon was able to weave the characters into the story so effortlessly. All of the characters were strong with characteristics that made it easy to relate to. They took on real-life issues and it was neat to watch their story played out on the pages. There were several times where they story took a turn that I wasn't necessarily expecting, but it made me keep turning the pages.

I am looking forward to more by Irene Hannon now!

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Irene Hannon is a bestselling, award-winning author who took the publishing world by storm at the tender age of 10 with a sparkling piece of fiction that received national attention.

Okay…maybe that’s a slight exaggeration. But she was one of the honorees in a complete-the-story contest conducted by a national children’s magazine. And she likes to think of that as her “official” fiction-writing debut!

Since then, she has written more than 45 romantic suspense and contemporary romance/women’s fiction novels. She is a seven-time finalist and three-time winner of the RITA award—the “Oscar” of romantic fiction—and a member of Romance Writers of America Hall of Fame. Her books have also won a Daphne du Maurier award, a Carol award, three HOLT Medallions, a National Readers’ Choice award, a Retailers Choice award, two Booksellers’ Best awards and two Reviewers’ Choice awards from RT Book Reviews magazine. One of her novels was also named by Booklist as a top 10 inspirational fiction books of 2011. In addition, she is a two-time Christy award finalist.

Irene, who holds a B.A. in psychology and an M.A. in journalism, juggled two careers for many years until she gave up her executive corporate communications position with a Fortune 500 company to write full. She is happy to say she has no regrets!

In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, gardening and singing. A trained vocalist, she has sung the leading role in numerous musicals, including “South Pacific,” “Brigadoon,” “Oklahoma” “The King and I” and “Anything Goes.” She is also a soloist at her church.

When not otherwise occupied, Irene and her husband enjoy traveling, Saturday mornings at their favorite coffee shop and spending time with family. They make their home in Missouri.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Tracy Campbell never wanted to leave Hope Harbor, Oregon, or the idyllic three-generation cranberry farm where she grew up. But life--and love--altered her plans. When tragedy strikes and changes her plans yet again, she finds herself back in her hometown with a floundering farm to run and a heartbreaking secret. Romance is not on her agenda. Nor is it on Michael Hunter's. The visitor from Chicago has daunting secrets of his own. But when Tracy recruits him to help save a struggling charitable organization, the winds of change begin to sweep through Hope Harbor, bringing healing, hope, and love to countless lives--including their own.

Fan favorite Irene Hannon brings a whole new cast of characters to life in a charming Oregon seaside village. Emotional and heartwarming, this story invites readers to come home to Hope Harbor, where love and hope bloom--and hearts heal.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Hope Harbor, go HERE.
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I received this book free from Revell Publishers and CFBA in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Laugh Out Loud Pocket Doodles for Boys by Rob Elliott

When I saw these little joke books come up for review, I was excited. My kids have just reached the age where they enjoy telling jokes. My son is 6 and enjoys drawing. This book is the perfect fit for him. In fact, I spotted it in his beach bag.

I think this book is even more fun because you get to draw in a book. I'm not certain what kid alive hasn't wanted to doodle in a book without getting into trouble for doing so.

As a mom, I like that these jokes are short and simple. They are funny for them to tell, but I think the part I enjoy most is seeing their drawing. The drawings have already been started and the child is to elaborate onto the picture. For example, there's a half of a horse drawn. The directions are for the child to draw themselves as the horse trainer and then what the horse would say to them. I think the cartoon drawings are very cute that are provided.

I reviewed both the doodle book for girls and for boys. I originally thought that it'd be the same book with just different covers. I was surprised to see that it wasn't. Or at least if they are, they are not in the same order at all. That makes it much nicer when both of my kids want to tell me a joke from the same page of their book!

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

Laugh Out Loud Pocket Doodles for Girls by Rob Elliott

When I saw these little joke books come up for review, I was excited. My kids have just reached the age where they enjoy telling jokes. My daughter is 5 and has carried this book around with her for the past few days.

I think this book is even more fun because you get to draw in a book. I'm not certain what kid alive hasn't wanted to doodle in a book without getting into trouble for doing so.

As a mom, I like that these jokes are short and simple. They are funny for them to tell, but I think the part I enjoy most is seeing their drawing. The drawings have already been started and the child is to elaborate onto the picture. For example, there's a half of a horse drawn. The directions are for the child to draw themselves as the horse trainer and then what the horse would say to them. I think the cartoon drawings are very cute that are provided.

I reviewed both the doodle book for girls and for boys. I originally thought that it'd be the same book with just different covers. I was surprised to see that it wasn't. Or at least if they are, they are not in the same order at all. That makes it much nicer when both of my kids want to tell me a joke from the same page of their book!

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

In Firefly Valley by Amanda Cabot

I really liked the cover of this book. With summer setting in, it showed me right away that it would be a nice, romantic book that would be perfect for relaxation. In fact, the water in the cover practically screamed relaxation to me!

Amanda Cabot has done a wonderful job, once again, of captivating me with her story. I was hooked from the first page and had a hard time setting this book down. The issues that this story brought up were something that many people can easily relate to.

Marissa has to struggle to forgive her father. As much as this book speaks on forgiveness, I also think it highlights the relationship a daughter wants to have with her father, whether he is there or not. It also speaks to the fact that sometimes God allows everything to be taken away so we can hear Him more and He gives us what we should have been asking for all along, if we'd only have known the big picture.

I liked how Blake and Marissa were the main characters, but there were several other characters that shared a big part of the book, too. Cabot did a wonderful job weaving their stories around Blake and Marissa and not making it feel like it had been oddly placed within.

I'm looking forward to reading book 3 in this Texas Crossroads Series.

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

As Love Blooms by Lorna Seilstad

I have really enjoyed this series featuring the Gregory sisters. Lorna Seilstad has done an excellent job including humor and romance with a wonderful storyline. I like each of the sisters, but I think Tessa is my favorite. That surprised me some because she wasn't a favorite of mine after reading the first 2 books. However, I loved her spontaneity and how she kept Reese on his feet.

The way Reese rescued Tessa so many times had me laughing by the end. The poor man had to just have shaken his head when he had to do it again! Aunt Sam was another person I really liked reading about. I think she's a story in herself, which would be a good spin-off. I'm not sure if it will happen, but there's some opening into the whole Women's suffrage that would make an excellent series, as well.

Edward always seemed shady to me, so I couldn't decide until the end whether or not I liked him. I was a little surprised by the predicament Tessa found herself in because I never saw it coming with the person who was involved.

I liked the message of the book about speaking the truth and not keeping secrets. Secrets can tear a family apart, so Tessa had every right to worry about the plethora of secrets each person had and whether or not it would rip their family apart.

The cover to this book is also beautifully done. The contrasting colors really catch the eye of the readers.

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



The Heart of the Amish by Suzanne Woods Fisher

I'm not entirely certain as to why I am so fascinated with the Amish, but I am. Of course, just like many others, I like the simplicity of things. They don't have an overabundance of toys or material things. I want to be that way. In other ways, I'm not certain that I would enjoy doing things that took double the time when certain appliances truly do make our lives more productive. However, one thing I admire about them is the way they forgive.

I'll never forget the school shooting within the Amish community. To read some of the responses of the Amish people was fascinating. I hope I would be that forgiving, but in all honesty, I think it'd take me years to get there if they hurt my child. These people know why forgiveness is so important, as well as peacemaking.

I think this book is perfect for absolutely anyone. Everyone struggles with holding grudges or causing conflict. Hello... gossip?! Definitely not a way for making peace. I was challenged in some ways in these two areas of my life. To see how readily they seek to make peace and not cause conflict is very impressive. It showed me many examples in my life where I need to be more aware of being the peacemaker.

I also liked how easy it is to relate to the stories within this book. It is very honestly written and you get to be taken along on the journey as many people share how they came to forgive others. Anyone who reads this book will be challenged in their ability to forgive and to be a peacemaker.

Suzanne Woods Fisher has been a long-time favorite author of mine when it comes to Amish fiction. I'm thrilled that she's now stepping into the world of nonfiction and sharing so many wonderful stories of the Amish lifestyle. I hope she continues to share the stories from the Amish.

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

Every Bride Needs a Groom by Janice Thompson

Janice Thompson is one of my go-to authors when it comes to chick-lit. Her stories are light and full of humor. I always finish reading her books with a smile on my face because of her humor.

This book is the first in her new series, A Brides with Style. Since I have read most of her other series, I absolutely loved seeing familiar names popping up, like Bella, Gabi, and Jordan. It also mentioned Bella's family who host The Italian Kitchen show on TV. I like Janice Thompson starts new series, but still is able to tie in favorite characters into her new series. It makes her books connect in some small way.

I know Stan was a minor character in the story, but he was oddly one of my favorites. His little one-liners he used trying to convince Brady to get back into the pro game of basketball were funny. I know the ladies at the bridal shop dreaded to see him come in, but I loved it.

Being from a small town, I appreciated the small town feel she brought to the story. It was easy to relate to the how everyone knows you and the pace is a lot slower. Katie's predicament that brought her to the big city meant that many in her family stepped out to take a chance on love and mending relationships. The way Katie's brother's were worked into the story had me laughing just imagining the scene in my head.

I am definitely looking forward to reading book 2 in this series. These are the type of books that make excellent summer/beach books.

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

The Legacy by Dan Walsh and Gary Smalley

I always like it when two of my top authors join forces to write an unforgettable novel. I was sold on Gary Smalley's writing in fiction when he joined forces with Karen Kingsbury. Dan Walsh has been a favorite from his first book I've read by him a few years ago. The Restoration Series that Walsh and Smalley have written is a collection of unforgettable stories. They each deal with real life issues and tough issues. Some issues are marriage issues, all are relationship issues in one way or another, and all issues have lead to restoration within those relationships. However, they each did have a cost to pay for their choices.

Book 4 continues to follow the Anderson family. Jim Anderson is still restoring the problems that his children have faced because of his choices as a father in the previous years. However, since he has begun to change, he is seeking to reach out to each one in his family and restore those relationships. This book focuses on his son, Doug.

Doug has made decisions that many today make. He's living a double life and has to hit rock bottom in order for his life to turn around. It's painful for his family to watch, but he doesn't want to listen to anyone. Even his friendship with Christina has stalled.

I like this series for another reason: because I always learn something new about interacting with my children. In this book, I learned how treating your child like the prodigal son looks like. It's not easy and I can imagine my heart would be broken. However, I also saw how it can also give them room to be reached by God. It leads to a relationship where the child knows their parent loves them and is a safe place, even if they don't agree with the decisions.

I sincerely hope that there are more stories in this series. This has become like the Baxter series by Karen Kingsbury. I don't want to say goodbye to the Anderson family!

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

The Creole Princess by Beth White

I have always enjoyed reading books with characters that overcome adversity or the "cultural norm" and forge their own paths through life. There were times in this book where my heart broke for Lyse as she had to put up with people who were not very nice to her. I know it was the "cultural norm" back in the 1770s, but I still hated that anyone was treated that way.

As for Rafael González, he can make any woman swoon and he knows it. I liked him, but I always had my guard up with him. It took me a bit to figure out how I really felt about him. I was never sure as to whether or not I could trust him, but eventually I did come to my conclusion.

I really did appreciate the story line and plot of this book, but the part that I most appreciated would have to be the historical facts. I don't know much about the 1770s, but I felt as though I had learned quite a bit just by reading this book. It was quite a fascinating time in history, but it was also a difficult time if you weren't like the people that was acceptable to society (i.e. from the right race, culture, social status, etc.).

The Créole Princess is the second book in the Gulf Coast Chronicles. It follows the Pelican Bride, which is also an excellent book.

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

The Trouble with Patience by Maggie Brendan

I really enjoy reading any book by Maggie Brendan. Her books are always full of history and this book is no exception. The Trouble with Patience centers around Nevada City. The time is when the Montana gold rush is booming and people are coming from all over to either start a new life or to strike it rich.

Patience Cavanaugh has to be one of my favorite characters. Her name is her character. She has flaws of learning to trust again, but I really like how we see her personal struggles of the more inward kind. In a way, the struggle is almost the same for Jedediah Jones, too. It's a struggle of learning to forgive himself for his past and moving forward.

The story keeps moving along at a good pace. There's love and suspense wrapped up with so many of the characters. Brendan does a good job at slowly revealing facts about the characters to keep your interest peaked. I felt like I could see myself roaming the streets in this sweet, charming town.

I'm looking forward to reading book 2 in this series, which hopefully comes out in the near future!

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

Where Rivers Part by Kellie Coates Gilbert

I learned a lot about food contamination in this book, without even realizing it. I was small when the Jack in the Box outbreak happened, so I don't remember much about that. However, I have heard about it and read about it at various times and was curious as to how the contamination happens and does so more often than we think it should.

The bottled water company that Dr. Juliet Ryan works for is considered to be a top-notch facility. In fact, they hired the best person to ensure their water was safe. Dr. Juliet Ryan doubles and triple checks her work and speaks at conferences to bring more awareness to water and food contamination and the need for diligence.

To say that Dr. Juliet Ryan is placed in many uncomfortable circumstances, some of her own doing and some from others, would be an understatement. She has to learn to forgive when forgiveness seems next to impossible. She has to turn to the one person she despises the most and finds the most unforgivable in order to expose a scandal that is so big and so wrong and that can change her course in her career drastically. When her reputation is drug through the mud, she needs only one man standing up for her, but that comes at a cost.

I forgot that Kellie Coates Gilbert had a law background and about halfway through the book I became impressed with her vast knowledge of the law. I flipped to her bio and realized that no wonder she was so fluent.... that's what her passion was! It never got bogged down in heavy details and the storyline kept moving at a fast pace. Just when I thought that I had a grip on one part, something else would happen and make it fall apart.

I'm looking forward to reading book 3 in this series!

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

At Home in Last Chance by Cathleen Armstrong

I just can't help but love Last Chance. It's a quaint little town where everyone knows everyone and the town goes to bed by 8:00. Doesn't that sound marvelous?! The downside to Last Chance is that the town folk are so close to each other that it's hard for an outsider to come into the town. They have to decide to love it and become a part of the town or leave.

Kaitlyn doesn't necessarily love the town, but because of her choices that she's made, she has no choice but to stay at Last Chance. It takes her awhile to realize it, but she is being given a chance to put her past behind her and start new. The same thing happens for Steven. His reputation isn't necessarily one that his family is proud of, but no one's past is so bad that they can't change with a little help from God.

I couldn't help but like Steven... even when he was a little annoying at the beginning. There was something about his story that broke my heart. Really, it broke for both Kaitlin and Steven. I hated to see their past thrown up in their face or to have looks of disapproval. I couldn't stand Juanita at first, but then I came to like her a little more by the end.

It was wonderful to be updated about Chris and Sarah and Ray and Lainie. After reading the first two books, I liked having them all tied back into this book. I like it when authors do this in a series. With that said, though, you definitely wouldn't be lost in the series if you started with this one. It only adds to the book to have read the first two.\

I hope this isn't my last visit to Last Chance. Elisabeth still has more people she needs to help.... and I want to hear all about all three couples!

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

Christmas at Rose Hill Farm by Suzanne Woods Fisher

As I finished the first couple of chapters in this book, I could tell already that I was not going to be happy if things kept on the path they were headed. I so wanted Bess to be with the one she loved,  Billy, and not the man she kept trying to love, Amos. Amos was a good man and treated her wonderfully, but I had a soft spot for Billy.

I liked the facts on the roses, but there were a few times where I felt that the story was a little bogged down because of those facts. It seemed to stall for a few sentences and then pick back up once it moved past the facts. That was just my opinion, though, as I was reading it. To real rose lovers, they probably loved those parts of the book the most.

I liked how the mysterious rose brought two people together and caused them to have to patiently wait as it prepared to bloom. It was sort of similar to the relationship Bess desired to have with a certain man. The story of reconciliation was a beautiful part of this Christmas story.

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

Love's Fortune by Laura Frantz

I have enjoyed every Laura Frantz book I have read so far. This series is probably one of my favorites, even though I can't put my finger on why I like it so much. It could be that I like the era and she does a great job of making her books fit the historical time period.

Oh how I liked Wren with her simple desires. Not that she's a simple person, by any means. She just prefers the more simple lifestyle verses the one she's now being thrown into. Wren was someone who was easy to relate to. I know I've had situations where I didn't feel comfortable being myself in certain environments and even of not being accepted. I think that's why this book will resonate with so many people.

The other part of Wren that I could relate to is her love for music. Being a musician, I can't imagine having to set it aside and stifle my love for it some.

A relationship between James and Wren would be most difficult. They both have to guard their hearts because they are not in each other's class of society. Wren ultimately has to decide if she wants her life to reflect the wishes of others and their long list of rules or if she wants to pave her own path and follow her heart.

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