A Time to Stand by Robert Whitlow

I'm a huge Robert Whitlow fan. I normally shy away from this genre of books, but I have absolutely loved every single book that I've read by him. My mom likes John Grisham and when I told her to read this book, she said he wrote very similar. I've converted a new reader!

A Time to Stand did a fantastic job balancing a topic that has become of conversation (and should) in our society. In A Time to Stand, a policeman of character find himself in a situation that he never dreamed. An African-American boy is in a coma after being shot by a white policeman. It's a small town so news of a "racist cop" shooting an African-American is the headliner in most conversations. Suddenely, the police officer finds himself in the line of fire and his family and his own life is threatened by the very same people he has spent his life trying to protect.

He's almost certain he heard a shot ring out before he shot, but maybe he really didn't. Maybe his mind played a trick on him....if only he could remember each moment clearly.

Adisa Johnson is a lawyer who lost her job and has come back to the small town in Georgia to help take care of her grandmother who raised her. Initially, she hears about this case and sides against the policeman. However, after some time, she begins to feel like she is supposed to help the police officer. This doesn't sit well in the small town that is full of racial tension.  Her community can't understand why she would help this white police officer. She can't explain it either, except she feels deep down that it's what she's supposed to do.

The truth eventually comes out, thanks to Adisa. A Time to Stand focuses on this small community and how things can look when we set aside our differences and love each other for who they are....no matter or race, language, etc. Let us all be people who stand for our friends of different races and fight for unity amongst each other.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Someone Like You by Victoria Bylin

The cover of this book is what attracted me to this book. It is beautifully done with a lot of contrasting colors. It definitely catches my eye and made me curious as to what the story was about since I don't typically read the back of the book to find out. I like surprises!

It has been a while since I've read a book like this one. It is a romance, but not in the way that many readers would think. The characters have messy lives, like we, the readers, have daily. I say it's not the typical romance novel because there's an ex-husband involved and Julia is a single mom. Needless to say, she has her guard up.

Zeke, the man who has liked her before, now realizes that his feelings for her never went away. However, he has his own struggles to deal with. They each have to figure out if a relationship is possible and worth tearing down their walls or if they would rather leave them up and walk out of each other's lives. 

Messy. I like that kind of book because it is so relatable. In fact, it reminds me of conversations I've had with friends or acquaintances about their lives. 

I must say that I was a little surprised at the humor Victoria Bylin threw into this story. How wonderful it was to actually laugh in a book. Those are the books that leave you feeling good and making you wanting to pick it up and not put it down.

Read more reviews about this book at http://litfusegroup.com/author/vbylin.

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ABOUT THE BOOK

Someone Like You (Bethany House, May 2016)

Single mom Julia Dare has a lot on her plate. 

A brand new Christian, Julia is busy trying to run her own business, spend time with her widowed mother, and raise her young son, Max, despite his father’s less-than-ideal influence on him. When a big account from her event-planning business sends her to the Caliente Springs resort, she’s shocked to come face-to-face with Zeke Monroe, the resort’s general manager and her college sweetheart.

With his faith in tatters, Zeke Monroe is determined to keep the historic Caliente Springs resort running despite financial difficulties. But when Julia walks back into his life, he can’t ignore the feelings she stirs up. As they work together on an important client’s dream wedding, the fate of the resort soon depends on their success. When Zeke and Julia are pushed to their limits both personally and professionally, will their history put up walls between them or bring them together?CTORIA BYLIN

Victoria Bylin writes contemporary and historical romances known for their realistic, relatable characters. Her work has finaled in contests such as the Carol Awards, the RITAs, and the RT Reviewers' Choice Award. A native of California, she and her husband now make their home in Lexington, Kentucky.

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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.

The Atonement by Beverly Lewis

Beverly Lewis is a household name for those who enjoy Amish fiction. She always writes her stories in such a way where the readers is instantly hooked on the book and has to finish it with late nights! Or at least that's how I feel about her books. She's one of the few authors that keep me up late at night. One particular thing I like is the fact that she uses shorter chapters. It makes it so much easier to set the story aside when I need to, but it also makes it easier for me to say "just one more chapter..."

The Atonement is a beautiful story of grace vs. works. Lucy thinks that she can work her way to forgiveness for her sins. She also thinks that God could never possibly forgive her for the sins that she has committed. She feels so unworthy of a young man she has long loved but who seems to have it all together. Then she meets an Englisher and realizes that she could possibly make the same mistake once again.

Restoration stood out to me throughout this story. I saw her struggle with forgiveness and especially with forgiving herself. However, the ending chapters were beautiful as you saw restoration in relationships and time redeemed. I also loved the story of the "couple on the bridge."

The characters were very easy to like and I enjoyed reading about each one. I don't think there was one that I disliked at all. I could feel the pain of her father and the fear of her mother, as well as the deep grief from Lucy.

Dale was a character that I respected. I was very impressed with him and how Beverly Lewis chose to write his story. I loved it.
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I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Song of Silence by Cynthia Ruchti

I have read almost all of the books by Cynthia Ruchti and I think her books are getting better with each book she writes. I love how deeply she makes her reader connect to the characters and the details she goes into when giving her characters personalities. I could feel the pain Lucy was experiencing all throughout the book and the pain Charlie felt because he couldn't relieve hers by making her dream of teaching music hang on just a bit longer. I forgot how much she infuses humor into situations and I enjoy that about her. The passion that she gave Charlie had me laughing each time as I envisioned him passionately describing his new adventure.

Being a music therapist, I easily related to this book and loved reading it. It was beautiful and raw. It is what is happening to so many music and arts problems around the country. I don't know if she meant to or not, but she definitely is using this book to raise awareness about why the schools need these programs. However, being a therapist, I loved the opening chapter.

Song of Silence is a story about a dream that has become silent after so many years. It's about passion and music and pouring into the lives of children. That is, until plans are made and the music seems to stop in Lucy's life. She has to figure out her next step, her new passion, but doesn't want to bury the music. I love that in the end, her dreams is bigger and better than she would have ever imagined at the beginning!

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

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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.

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ABOUT THE BOOK

Song of Silence (Abingdon, April 2016)

Music taught Lucy love and beauty. Could silence teach her hope?

Lucy and Charlie Tuttle agree on one thing: they’re committed to each other for life. Trouble is, neither of them expected life to look like this. Charlie retired early, but Lucy is devoted to a long-term career . . . until the day she has no choice.

Forced to retire from her position as music educator in a small Midwestern K-8 school, Lucy can only watch helplessly as the program her father started years ago disintegrates before her eyes. As the music fades and a chasm separates her form the passion of her heart, Lucy wonders if her faith’s song has gone silent, too. The musical score of her life seems to be missing all the notes.

When a simple misstep threatens to silence Lucy forever, a young boy and his soundless mother change the way she sees—and hears—everything.

Learn more and purchase a copy.

CYNTHIA RUCHTI

Cynthia Ruchti tells stories hemmed in hope. She’s the award-winning author of 17 books and a frequent speaker for women’s ministry events. She serves as the Professional Relations Liaison for American Christian Fiction Writers, where she helps retailers, libraries, and book clubs connect with the authors and books they love. She lives with her husband in Central Wisconsin.

Sit, Stay, Love by Dana Mentink

I'll admit that I was a little on the fence when I first saw this book. I couldn't decide if it'd just one of those dog books that are cheesy or if it'd be something I'd actually enjoy and remember. When it came in the mail, I still was a bit hesitant. However, I'm not one to skip out on a book, so I was determined to keep an open mind and read it. It was an easy book to read and it was quite enjoyable. I liked all of the characters and Cal and Gina were absolutely funny.

This book included some things that I was thrilled, yet surprised to read. It does include a dog, Tippy, but it was wonderful to read about how she included baseball and a few other things. I loved Cal's uncle and all he had done.

As I was reading this book, I thought about how perfectly timed this book was in its release. It would make a perfect beach read or car trip book. It's lighthearted and just a good book to read when you're relaxed. If I had to offer one opinion, it would be about the cover. I understand why the dog is on the front, but to me it just made the book look like it was a quirky dog book. Since I've read the book, I think it's absolutely cute. However, I would suggest adding more than just the dog to the cover to make the readers gravitate towards the book without question.

Read more reviews about this book at http://litfusegroup.com/author/dmentink. 

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

DANA MENTINK

Dana Mentink lives in California, where the weather is golden and the cheese is divine. Dana is an American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year finalist for romantic suspense and an award winner in the Pacific Northwest Writers Literary Contest. Her suspense novel, Betrayal in the Badlands, earned a Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Award. Besides writing, she busies herself teaching third and fourth grade. Mostly, she loves to be home with her husband, two daughters, a dog with social anxiety problems, a chubby box turtle, and a feisty parakeet.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Sit, Stay, Love (Harvest House, April 2016)

Take one abrasive professional athlete, a quirky out-of-work schoolteacher, and an overweight geriatric dog, and you’re ready for a lesson in love . . . Tippy style.

Pro baseball pitcher Cal Crawford is not a dog guy. When he inherits his deceased mother’s elderly dog, Tippy, he’s quick to call on a pet-sitting service.

Gina isn’t thrilled to be a dog sitter when her aspirations lie in the classroom. Furthermore, she can’t abide the unfriendly Cal, a man with all the charm of a wet towel. But with no other prospects and a deep love for all things canine, she takes the job caring for Tippy.

As Gina travels through Cal’s world with Tippy in tow, she begins to see Cal in a different light. Gina longs to show Cal the God-given blessings in his life that have nothing to do with baseball or fame. When her longing blooms into attraction, Gina does her best to suppress it. But Cal is falling in love with her too…

Discover the charming story of Tippy, the dog who brought a family together.

Learn more and purchase a copy.

At Love's Bidding by Regina Jennings

I had completely forgotten how much I enjoy reading Regina Jennings. I had completely forgotten she had written of my top books, such as Sixty acres and a Bride, Love in the Balance, and A Most Inconvenient Marriage. I always find myself laughing throughout the book and she just knows how to make her readers enjoy her books.

The opening pages of this book had me engaged from the start. I couldn't go a few pages without laughing.. In fact, it was the parts of humor that made me flip to the back to remind myself of what books Regina had written. I love that laughter triggered that memory for me.

Miranda Wimplegate is just a fun character. She tries to restrain herself and stay "in her place" but she keeps finding herself in situations where she needs to intervene. No matter what she does, Cornelius continues to pursue her in marriage. If only Miranda felt the same way about him. She's resolved to the fact that he's probably who she will end up with, but her heart just isn't in it. To prove Cornelius wrong, and to right a wrong, she travels with her grandfather to find something that should have never been sold by their auction house.

Wyatt Ballantine just added more humor to the situation, I think. The poor man had to deal with two people who had no clue about livestock or how to make that business run. Miranda isn't afraid to speak her mind and her grandfather has been having more "episodes." Imagine trying to make something work with these three characters! Antiques and livestock don't really have a lot in common!

I cannot wait for Jennings to write more books. She can't write them fast enough, in my opinion. I got done and wished there was another book I could read by her already! In the midst of stressful days, her book was just what I needed to wind down with.

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

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At Love’s Bidding (Bethany House, December 2015)
She sells priceless antiques. He sells livestock by the pound. Is he really the man to make a bid for her heart?
After helping her grandfather at their Boston auction house, Miranda Wimplegate discovers she’s accidentally sold a powerful family’s prized portrait to an anonymous bidder. Desperate to appease the people who could ruin them forever, they track it to the Missouri Ozarks and make an outlandish offer to buy the local auction house and all its holdings before the painting can move again.
Upon crossing the country, however, Miranda and her grandfather discover their new auction house doesn’t deal in fine antiques, but in livestock. And its frustratingly handsome manager, Wyatt Ballentine, is annoyed to discover his fussy new bosses don’t know a thing about the business he’s single-handedly kept afloat. Faced with more heads of cattle than they can count–but no mysterious painting–Miranda and Wyatt form an unlikely but charged partnership to try and prevent a bad situation from getting worse.
Learn more and purchase a copy.

 

Regina Jennings

Regina Jennings is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University with a degree in English and a history minor. She is the author of "A Most Inconvenient Marriage," "Sixty Acres and a Bride," and "Caught in the Middle," and contributed a novella to "A Match Made in Texas." Regina has worked at the Mustang News and First Baptist Church of Mustang, along with time at the Oklahoma National Stockyards and various livestock shows. She now lives outside Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, with her husband and four children.

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

The Wedding Chapel by Rachel Hauck

Imagine a wedding chapel that was built for the love of your life who isn't in your life anymore. In fact, you've spent your own time building this chapel just for her. Considering your past and how your mother walked away and you watched your father wanted to build a dream home for her in case she returns, you would think you'd be jaded a bit when it comes to love. However, when you find the one, there's no taking them out of your life. Well... except for a misunderstanding that leads to unforgiveness and bitterness. That's exactly what happens in Hearts Bend.

Now what would happen if a young photographer was able to bring these two people together? Sounds impossible, I know. Especially when you add into the mix that this young photographer just eloped and is dealing with her own marriage issues. To say that she knows it all in the romance department is a huge understatement. She had no desire to get married. When she did, she apparently chose the one person who had a lot of his past to work though and a lot of forgiveness to deal with. Of course, that would mean that her husband wasn't was strong as he wanted everyone to think he was, so she's left wondering if her marriage is even going to make it past the 6 month mark.

My favorite part about this book is that it is told from the perspective of different people. I always enjoy books like that because I don't have to guess at what the characters are thinking. I had no idea where the story was going in some parts because Rachel Hauck did a wonderful job at keeping her readers guessing. Secrets were revealed at just the right time and I was thoroughly engaged throughout the entire story.

Once again, one of my favorite authors didn't disappoint. I always know that I can read a book by Hauck and enjoy it from start to finish. Read other opinions on this book at http://litfusegroup.com/author/RHauck.

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The Wedding Chapel (Zondervan, November 2015)
For sixty years, a wedding chapel sat silent, waiting for love. But times have changed and the hour has come when it just might be too late.
Retired hall-of-fame football coach Jimmy “Coach” Westbrook never imagined anything would come of his labor of love—the wedding chapel he built for Collette Greer, the woman he fell for back in ‘49. But now an offer has come to turn the chapel into what it was meant to be—a place for love—and Jimmy sees no reason to hang onto his dream any longer.
Photographer Taylor Branson is trying to make a life for herself in New York. Leaving her hometown of Heart’s Bend, Tennessee, she put a lot of things behind her, including her family’s abysmal marriage rate. But love surprises her when she falls head-over-heels for Jack Forester, a top ad man. Their whirlwind romance results in an elopement, and a mountain of doubt. Jack, while genuine in his love for Taylor, can never seem to overcome his own demons to find the words of his heart.
When Taylor takes an assignment in Heart’s Bend, the job does more than send her back to her hometown, but into a world of family secrets buried beneath the sands of time.
When Taylor’s journey intersects with Coach’s, they rediscover the heartbeat of their dreams and that the love they long to hold is right in front of them. And worth every waiting moment.
Learn more and purchase a copy.

        

Rachel Hauck

Rachel Hauck is an award-winning, best selling author of critically acclaimed novels such as "The Wedding Dress," "Love Starts with Elle," and "Once Upon A Prince." She also penned the Songbird Novels with multi-platinum recording artist, Sara Evans. Booklist named their novel, "Softly and Tenderly," one of 2011 Top Ten Inspirationals. She serves on the Executive Board for American Christian Fiction Writers and is a mentor and book therapist at My Book Therapy, and conference speaker. Rachel lives in central Florida with her husband and pets.

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

Summer's List by Anita Higman

I felt like this book had a slower start, but once I read a few pages I was hooked. I'll be very honest, though. I couldn't stand Desmond and Ivan. I dreaded seeing their names pop up in the story because they were just horrid!

At first I was even unsure about Martin. He grew as the story went along and was definitely not the same person as the he was described as in the beginning of the story. Summer was a sweet girl who had given up a lot to help take care of her family. I liked the idea of her grandmother creating a list for her to complete over a few weeks. Her grandmother was a lady who was very easy to like and made me miss my own grandma as I reflected over several parts in the story.

There was a little mystery in the book because no one knows where Martin's parents have gone. There's anger and bitterness and just pure hate. However, there's also love, forgiveness, confidence, and God meeting people where they are.

One of my favorite scenes in the story happens close to the end when Desmond does something that others view as heroic. I felt like that was the climax of the story and the story changed a little for me after that.

This wasn't a fast paced book, but it was a beautiful story of forgiveness and making things right, as well as redemption.

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

The Midwife's Tale by Delia Parr

I was excited to read this book after receiving it in the mail. I'm fascinated with book on midwifery and the cover of the book intrigued me enough to want to read it quickly. This is the first book in the At Home in Trinity series. I wouldn't say it started out as a fast-paced book, but it didn't have to. I was engaged from the very beginning.

Martha is a widow and has some personal struggles in her life, as well as in her work life. In order to be in the moment for her patients, she has to set aside her personal turmoil that she feels when she learns that her daughter has joined up with a troupe of performers. I could relate to her wanting to find her because any mother would want to find their baby!

Personal life aside, she also has to deal with the fact that midwifery may be in trouble. Doctors have now come onto the scene. In this small town, Martha is kept busy and her importance is realized and she has long been trusted by her patients. All of that could change, though, with this new doctor.

I am new to Delia Parr, but am definitely going to continue reading this series. I am looking forward to see where she takes the next book.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Delia Parr is the author of sixteen historical and inspirational
historical romance novels, including Hearts Awakening, Love's
First Bloom, and Hidden Affections. The mother of three
grown children, she was a long-time high school teacher in
southern New Jersey before retiring to Florida.




ABOUT THE BOOK

Martha Cade comes from a long line of midwives who have served the families of Trinity, Pennsylvania, for generations. A widow with two grown children, she's hopeful that her daughter will follow in her footsteps, but when Victoria runs off, Martha's world is shattered.

Worse, a new doctor has arrived in town, threatening her job, and she can't remember a time when her faith has been tested more. Still determined to do the work she knows God intended for her, Martha is unprepared for all that waits ahead. Whether it's trying to stop a town scandal, mending broken relationships, or feeling the first whispers of an unexpected romance, she faces every trial and every opportunity with hope and faith.

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Midwife’s Tale, go HERE.

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

As Waters Gone By by Cynthia Ruchti

I was captivated by this book front the moment I received it in the mail. I couldn't wait to read it. The cover just screamed relaxation to me and who doesn't like a book like that?! Everything about the cover attracted me to this book.

I was impressed by Cynthia Ruchti after reading one of her previous books. Her writing is engaging and really speaks to the heart of the reader. Her characters struggle with real issues. In this book, it's forgiveness for a reason that most books don't touch.

I absolutely loved that Max and Nick were in the same boat, so to say. They both needed second chances after making a life-changing decision. They needed someone to believe in them and forgive them and give them a chance to prove they had changed. That's easy to say on their behalf, but when you're the wife of a man in jail for 5 years, forgiveness doesn't come easy. It wears on a marriage and leaves thoughts that aren't comforting to think about at all. Add on the humiliation and shame and you've got a lot to deal with in a marriage.

Madeline Island is the perfect retreat to deal with these issues. It seemed fitting to have a little cottage by the water to reflect a new start. But with the new start that Emmalyn is making, she has to decide whether or not she will give her marriage a new start. It's much easier to hang onto bitterness and unforgiveness rather than letting go and forgiving.

Read more reviews by going to http://litfusegroup.com/author/cruchti.

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As Waters Gone By (Abingdon, May 2015)
How can a marriage survive when separated by hundreds of miles and impenetrable prison walls?
Emmalyn and Max Ross may have to endure the fight of their lives to mend the tattered fabric of their marriage. His actions ensured she could never be a mother and put him in prison, giving their relationship a court-mandated five-year time-out. On a self-imposed exile to beautiful but remote Madeline Island, one of the Apostle Islands of Lake Superior, Emmalyn has just a few months left to figure out if and how they can ever be a couple again.
Nudged along by the exuberant owner of the Wild Iris Inn and Café, a circle of misfit people in their small town, and a young girl who desperately needs someone to love her, Emmalyn restores an island cottage that could become a home and begins to restore her heart by learning what it means to love unconditionally. Yet even as hope begins to find a place within the cottage walls, Emmalyn still wonders if she’s ready for Max’s release. She may be able to rebuild a cottage, but can she rebuild a marriage?
Learn more and purchase a copy.

Cynthia Ruchti

Cynthia Ruchti has more than three decades of radio broadcast experience with "Heartbeat of the Home" radio and currently serves as Professional Relations Liaison for American Christian Fiction Writers. Find Cynthia on the Web at www.cynthiaruchti.com.

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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.

The Art of Losing Yourself by Katie Ganshert

When I thought about how to sum up this book, two words came to my mind: raw and honest. I know this is a fiction book, but it felt so much like reading someone's autobiography. The story is written in first person from the perspective of both Carmen and Gracie.

Carmen and Gracie share the same mother, who has chosen alcohol over raising her children. Carmen is less affected by it because she's married and moved out. However, Gracie has felt the weight of her mother's choice. To cope, she has made some decisions that aren't the best. She's made them, of course, in order to survive emotionally and in some ways, physically.

Carmen is the one who went to one end of the spectrum in order to hide her flawed family. She tried to be perfect in every way. The fact that things aren't perfect in her life now leads to her feeling exposed. For Gracie, she went the opposite way in dealing with her dysfunctional family. She wasn't afraid to deal out the pain so others could hurt along with her. To say she built walls around her heart is putting it lightly. She's built a fortress.

I love the honesty in this book. It doesn't sugar coat the very real reality that teens face while growing up in a family that has chosen alcohol over their children. This is a very real reality for many people and I think so many can easily relate to this. Not everyone has a sister they can learn to love and depend on, though. Gracie and Carmen find one thing that brings them closer together and reminds them of so many memories.

Katie Ganshert is a new author to me, but I absolutely enjoyed her writing style. I am looking forward to her next book already.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Award-winning author, Katie Ganshert, graduated from the University of Wisconsin in Madison with a degree in education, and worked as a fifth grade teacher for several years before staying home to write full-time. She was born and raised in the Midwest, where she lives with her family. When she’s not busy penning novels or spending time with her people, she enjoys drinking coffee with friends, reading great literature, and eating copious amounts of dark chocolate.



ABOUT THE BOOK

Just like in my dream, I was drowning and nobody even noticed.

Every morning, Carmen Hart pastes on her made-for-TV smile and broadcasts the weather. She’s the Florida panhandle’s favorite meteorologist, married to everyone’s favorite high school football coach. They’re the perfect-looking couple, live in a nice house, and attend church on Sundays. From the outside, she’s a woman who has it all together.  But on the inside, Carmen Hart struggles with doubt. She wonders if she made a mistake when she married her husband. She wonders if God is as powerful as she once believed. Sometimes she wonders if He exists at all. After years of secret losses and empty arms, she’s not so sure anymore.

Until Carmen’s sister—seventeen year old runaway, Gracie Fisher—steps in and changes everything. Gracie is caught squatting at a boarded-up motel that belongs to Carmen’s aunt, and their mother is off on another one of her benders, which means Carmen has no other option but to take Gracie in. Is it possible for God to use a broken teenager and an abandoned motel to bring a woman’s faith and marriage back to life? Can two half-sisters make each other whole?

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Art of Losing Yourself, go HERE.
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I received this book free from CFBA and WaterBrook Press in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Side by Side by Jana Kelley

Side by Side is a book that I will not forget. The risk, the secrets, and the rules all lead to the tension in this book. There were some parts of this book that I was completely shocked by. I had no idea that certain things happened in Sudan, Africa.

I admired Mia being able to set aside her fears to move to Sudan for the gospel. I have talked with several of my missionary friends who are moms and they have shared with me the same feelings that Mia expressed in this book. I think that I would feel that same way when it came to taking care of my family.

It was hard to read what Halimah went through and what certain choices cost them. I know many in real-life are just like her and I am amazed. The relationships she had was interesting to read about.

I appreciated that Jana Kelley wrote this book from some of her real-life experiences while living in Sudan. Her knowledge adds so much to the story. It also helped that she put her own struggles in it through the character Mia. It gave the reader a wonderful perspective of what it would be like to forsake it all and move to a different country for the sake of the Gospel.

Days later after reading the final chapter of this book, I can not get the story out of my head. It is one that will be recommended over and over by me.

To read more reviews about this book, go to http://litfusegroup.com/books/side-by-side.

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About the Book

                       Side by Side (New Hope Publishers, April 2015)
In the dusty, Islamic country of Sudan, Mia’s life collides with that of another young woman.
A young Christian American mother, Mia finds more than one dark secret on the streets of Khartoum. She finds Halimah, a young, upper-class Arab student with a bright future in her family’s business whose risky and secretive decision has put her life in danger. What happens when the path of a young mother intersects with that of a spunky Sudanese student? God transforms them both . . . forever.
Part of New Hope® Publishers’ contemporary missional fiction line, Side by Side opens the reader’s eyes to the life of Muslims in Sudan as well as some of the struggles that Christians face when living under Islamic law. The reader will be inspired to pray for those who are persecuted for their faith as well as pray for the salvation of those who persecute.
Learn more and purchase a copy at Jana’s website.

Jana Kelley

Jana Kelley is a Texan who hardly ever lives in Texas. Raised in Southeast Asia, Jana developed a love for cross-cultural living early in life. Her love for writing came soon after. Jana returned to Texas to attend college. She and her husband married a month after she graduated and by their second anniversary, they were living in a remote African town. Together with her husband and three boys, Jana enjoys travel and overseas living. After thirteen years in Africa and the Middle East, Jana and her family moved to Southeast Asia where they currently live.

 

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

Miracle at the Higher Grounds Cafe' by Max Lucado

I absolutely love the cover of this book. It's beautiful. To a coffee lover, such as myself, this made me want to sit down with a cup of good coffee and read uninterrupted. The colors, the font, and the cup of coffee were beautifully designed on this cover.

I liked watching the real-life struggles between husband and wife, Sawyer and Chelsea. Throw in the children who are affected by their parent's every decision and this scenario is probably a typical one that many face in these days. Forgiveness doesn't come easy for Chelsea and she needs a little help in order to see what she has and will be missing out on if she continues on the path of unforgiveness. But to forgive herself, she has to see herself as God sees her.

There are quite a few lovable characters in this book. Bo is probably one of my favorites, and of course, Manny and Katrina. They play a huge part in Chelsea's life, but you also get to hear their story of redemption as well.

I struggled to enjoy one part of the book, though. I understand the point being made about being able to access God at all times, anywhere, but I wasn't particularly fond of how the point was illustrated in the book.

This is a nice, short book that reminds readers that the battle for us is not fought just on earth, but in heaven. Satan is very real and God is very real. It reminds us how involved Satan wants to be in our lives if we aren't careful.... and even if we are careful.

To read more reviews on this book, go to http://litfusegroup.com/campaigns/miracle-higher-grounds-cafe-max-lucado.

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{More about Miracle at the Higher Grounds Cafe}

Miracle at the Higher Grounds Cafe (Thomas Nelson, February 2015)
What if you could ask God anything? What would you ask? And how would he answer?
Chelsea Chambers is on her own. After a public split from her NFL superstar husband, Chelsea takes a bold step out of the limelight and behind the counter of the Higher Grounds Café, an old-fashioned coffee shop in dire need of reinvention. But when her courage, expert planning, and out-of-this-world cupcakes fail to pay the bills, this newly single mom finds herself desperate for help. Better yet, a miracle.
Then a curious stranger lands at Chelsea’s door, and with him, an even more curious string of events. Soon, customers are flocking to the Higher Grounds Café, and not just for the cupcakes and cappuccino. They’ve come for the internet connection to the divine. Now the café has become the go-to place for people in search of answers to life’s biggest questions.
When a catastrophe strikes and her ex comes calling, Chelsea begins to wonder if the whole universe is conspiring against her quest to make it on her own. After a shocking discovery opens her eyes to the unseen world around her, Chelsea finds the courage to ask, and heaven answers in a most unexpected way.
Learn more and purchase a copy at Max’s website.

{More About Max Lucado}

More than 120 million readers have found comfort in the writings of Max Lucado. He ministers at the Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Texas, where he lives with his wife, Denalyn, and a sweet but misbehaving mutt, Andy.
Find out more about Max at http://teamlucado.com/beforeamen/cbd.html.

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

The Dandelion Field by Kathryn Springer

After reading this book, I can easily see why Kathryn Springer is a USA Today Best-Selling Author. I'm a bit surprised that I haven't come across her books sooner, but I'm glad I have now. From the picture on the cover to the story inside, this book captivated my attention.

I must admit that I thought Genevieve (Gen) was one of my favorite characters. She didn't do motherhood perfectly, nor do I, but I loved her attitude. I like it when fiction characters make you think about yourself and she did that to me. I couldn't relate to her story personally, but her attitude made me want to have that, even if the circumstances are less than desirable. I couldn't help but laugh at her humor and sarcasm that so easily came out of her mouth, usually directed at Dan.

Dan was everything I figured he would be: stable, dependable, responsible, loving, and so much more. I would also have to include loyal in that list because he was so loyal to Cody and Evie. He did not take his responsibilities lightly and I would even say he was loyal to Max. Dan's entire family won me over from the first meeting after the football field event, which had me laughing, by the way.

Raine (and yes, I too, laughed at her full name)....Raine Lightly and Cody had to make some grown up decisions. I was impressed with the maturity and their response to the people who judged them within the church. I was reminded again and again of how all sin is equal and no sin is greater than another. We categorize them that way, but God doesn't.

Overall, this book was a hard one to put down. It was a beautiful story. I wouldn't say there were many surprises in it, but it was a story many can relate to easily. It's also a story that reminds us that God loves us no matter our past or our present circumstances. I hope that I respond to my daughter much the same way Genevieve did with hers. It was a great example to me of how to love even when mistakes have been made.

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{More about The Dandelion Field}

The Dandelion Field (Zondervan, January 2015)
This handsome firefighter makes a living coming to the rescue, but Gin doesn’t need a man to fight her battles.
After Raine’s dad walked out, Ginevieve Lightly never lived in one place too long, a rambling lifestyle that defined her daughter’s youth. When their car dies in Banister Falls, Wisconsin, Gin promises Raine they can stay until she finishes her senior year of high school. Gin will do anything to make sure her daughter has a bright future . . . a future that’s compromised when Raine reveals she’s pregnant.
Dan Moretti has only ever called Banister Falls home. After losing his best friend in a tragic accident, Dan devoted himself to responding to fires, rescuing the helpless, and guiding Cody Bennett, his best friend’s son, through life. With Cody being the epitome of the good kid, it was an easy job. Until he says four little words: “The baby is mine.”
Knowing gossip of Raine’s pregnancy will erupt sooner or later in the small town, Gin’s reflex is to grab the suitcase and escape to a new city, a new life. But with each passing day, Gin’s feet stay rooted in Banister Falls, and she falls a little more for this local firefighter who shows her not all men abandon women at the first sign of smoke.
As Gin and Dan do the best they can to guide the two teenagers through their early entry into adulthood, they discover together that romance can bloom in the rockiest of situations. And God can turn the pieces of a broken past into a beautiful new beginning.
Find out more and purchase a copy at Kathryn’s website. 

{More About Kathryn Springer}

Kathryn Springer is a USA Today bestselling author. She grew up in northern Wisconsin, where her parents published a weekly newspaper. As a child she spent many hours sitting at her mother’s typewriter, plunking out stories, and credits her parents for instilling in her a love of books – which eventually turned into a desire to tell stories of her own. Kathryn has written nineteen books with close to two million copies sold. She lives with her husband and three children in Marinette, Wisconsin.
Find out more about Kathryn at http://www.kathrynspringer.com.
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I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.

Beyond All Dreams by Elizabeth Camden

 I have been so excited to read more by Elizabeth Camden ever since I read my first book authored by her. She packs so much into her stories and pulls the reader in from the very first page of the book. I enjoy the history that fills the pages and even the suspense that is a bit unexpected. To be honest, I didn't think there could be much suspense to a missing ship. Don't worry....I was wrong. There was a lot that could happen.

Beyond All Dreams was a wonderful story of a Anna O'Brien. Anna has been alone her whole life due to many circumstances. She has had to learn to stand up to bullies, prove people wrong, and to face her fears. Luke Callahan has a family that doesn't know how to handle anger or alcohol. In order to get out of that situation, he turns to politics. He quickly learns that it's hard to run from something engraved inside of you and it takes God to overcome such things as anger.

I'll admit that I went back and forth with Luke. One minute I'd like the guy and the next, I couldn't stand him. However, I was pleasantly surprised by him in the end and impressed with what he was willing to do for those he so clearly loved.

I am looking forward to seeing what's next in Elizabeth Camden's next novel. They just keep getting better and better!

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{More about Beyond All Dreams}

Beyond All Dreams (Bethany House, January 2015)
Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they’ve ever dreamed for their futures?
Anna O’Brien leads a predictable and quiet life as a map librarian at the illustrious Library of Congress until she stumbles across the baffling mystery of a ship disappeared at sea. Thwarted in her attempts to uncover information, her determination outweighs her shyness and she turns to a dashing congressman for help.
Luke Callahan was one of the nation’s most powerful congressmen before his promising career was shadowed in scandal. Eager to share in a new cause and intrigued by the winsome librarian, he joins forces with Anna to solve the mystery of the lost ship. Opposites in every way, Anna and Luke are unexpectedly drawn to each other despite the strict rules forbidding Anna from any romantic entanglements with members of Congress.
From the gilded halls of the Capitol where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation’s finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they’ve ever dreamed for their futures?
Learn more and purchase a copy at Elizabeth’s website.

{More About Elizabeth Camden}

Elizabeth Camden is the author of six books and a RITA and Christy Award winner. With a master’s in history and a master’s in library science, she is a research librarian by day and scribbles away on her next novel by night. Elizabeth lives with her husband in Florida.
Find out more about Elizabeth at http://elizabethcamden.com.

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I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers and Litfuse Publicity Group 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.

Beyond All Dreams by Elizabeth Camden

I have been so excited to read more by Elizabeth Camden ever since I read my first book authored by her. She packs so much into her stories and pulls the reader in from the very first page of the book. I enjoy the history that fills the pages and even the suspense that is a bit unexpected. To be honest, I didn't think there could be much suspense to a missing ship. Don't worry....I was wrong. There was a lot that could happen.

Beyond All Dreams was a wonderful story of a Anna O'Brien. Anna has been alone her whole life due to many circumstances. She has had to learn to stand up to bullies, prove people wrong, and to face her fears. Luke Callahan has a family that doesn't know how to handle anger or alcohol. In order to get out of that situation, he turns to politics. He quickly learns that it's hard to run from something engraved inside of you and it takes God to overcome such things as anger.

I'll admit that I went back and forth with Luke. One minute I'd like the guy and the next, I couldn't stand him. However, I was pleasantly surprised by him in the end and impressed with what he was willing to do for those he so clearly loved.

I am looking forward to seeing what's next in Elizabeth Camden's next novel. They just keep getting better and better!

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

Child of Mine by David and Beverly Lewis

This storyline is probably a mother's worse nightmare. To have your child taken from you and never knowing if he/she is okay would be awful. I imagine that I, just like Kelly, would never stop looking for my baby.

Nattie is just plain adorable. She's a spunky 9-year-old and full of life. Jack is a sweetheart of a man who doesn't have a lot of confidence when it comes to dating or girls. However, with Kelly he is the perfect gentleman. I admired him for what he does for Nattie and all he gave up to be her guardian... or dad-a-kins. He has such a special relationship with her. Laura was the perfect nanny, but I'm glad things ended the way they did. It was absolutely perfect.

David and Beverly Lewis have once again written a top notch novel. It's a story that pulls at your heart as you root for a mother whose heart has been broken. You understand some of her less-than-ethical approaches, knowing that you would be tempted to do some of the same things. Your heart aches for a girl who just wants a mom because her life has been turned upside down twice and people keep leaving. You also cheer for the man who steps out of his comfort zone to try to give Nattie the life she needs and wants. I don't think this story could have been told any better than it was. I found myself dreaming about this story at night!

As always, I can't wait to see what's next with Beverly Lewis.

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

The Promise by Beth Wiseman

I will never forget a good friend of mine recommending Beth Wiseman's book. I enjoyed her writing so much that I have not missed a book she has written since then. She is very impressive as an author because she can bridge so many different fiction genres, like Amish fiction and contemporary fiction.

This cover made me not certain if I'd like this book or not. It looked suspenseful, which I knew was included in the book. However, I was a little nervous at the amount of suspense I was going to be reading, since I'm not much of a suspenseful book lover.

The storyline for this book is AMAZING! I kind of cheated (because I do that) and read the author's note first. I like knowing how the author came to write this story before I read it because it helps me to put it into perspective. I'll say one thing about the author's note...DON'T MISS IT! Wow! The courage Beth had and her honesty in that section made this book even more unforgettable, in my opinion.

I didn't want to put this book down. It is suspenseful, but probably in a different way than you would normally think. Mallory Hammond is a determined girl who has to learn the hard way. It absolutely broke my heart to watch her chose this path for her life, not knowing the amount of fear and consequences she was going to experience. After reading the author's note, I think Mallory will become a dear character to every reader. Tate's selflessness is pretty amazing, too, especially as the reality of Mallory's situation began to hit.

This is a book that has been hard to set aside and forget about. After finishing it, I still find myself thinking about this scenario and wondering how many others have had to learn this lesson the hard way.

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

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

A Light in the Wilderness by Jane Kirkpatrick

Not much is more relaxing after a long day than opening a book and taking a time travel back to the 1800's. I know the time was tough, but I enjoy the history found in most of Jane Kirkpatrick's books. She makes history come alive with her rich research and grand storytelling.

I might have been a bit partial to Davey with him being Irish. I was glad that he had compassion on Letitia. I can't imagine the restrictions back then on being a minority or immigrant and what they faced if they broke the "rules" and fell in love.

Letitia never fell into "victim" mode. Instead, in my opinion, she embraced the unfairness and chose to make the best of it. She was courageous and bold. As I was reading, I kept thinking of how I don't think I could be so bold. She was never truly accepted anywhere. Not by her government, not by society. I liked how close her friendship was with one other lady.

This book left me stuck in the 1800s for a little time afterwards because I couldn't stop thinking about it. The cover is beautiful too!

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