Buried Secrets by Barbara Cameron

It would be impossible not to like Luke Miller. He's a man who has fallen in love and wants to take on the role of being the husband of Rose and the father of Daniel. It wasn't what he had initially planned, but after working for Rose and getting to know her, he knew where he wanted to spend the rest of his life. However, before he met her, he was interested in her farm. So naturally, Rose is curious. Does Luke want her because he truly loves her or does he want her because the farm comes with her? 

Rose, who is a widow, can't bear to have her heart broken again. Trust isn't something that comes easily for her so she's having to really relearn trust. After all, Sam was the man she met, fell in love with, and married so quickly. She had plans of spending her life with him until the leukemia took over his body and he passed away. Now she finds herself returning back to her farm to be near her sister. Of course, that means that she has a farm and she needs help fixing it up and running it. Her sister has found Luke, whom she thinks would be a great help to Rose. Of course, she may have other  intentions, too. However, she feels that the secret she holds close to her heart is too much for anyone else to know, besides her sister. She has to learn to trust someone other than herself and her family.

Buried Secrets is the second book in the Harvest of Hope series. It could read as a stand alone novel, but as in all books of a series, it really does make more sense if you read Seeds of Hope first. However, you won't feel like you've missed a thing if you choose not to.

Overall, I enjoyed this book. It was a quick read and I grew to really like the characters. The only thing that I felt was missing was a little bit more of a "mystery" about the book. I knew the ending, and it had a couple of surprises, but even those I had figured out before it was told to the reader. It was an enjoyable book to read on the beach though!

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

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.

A Daughter's Dream by Shelley Shepard Gray

Shelley Shepard Gray is one of my go-to authors in Amish fiction. I have not been disappointed by her yet, and I honestly never expect to be disappointed by her.

I did not realize that I had missed the first book in this series. Usually I stay on top of her releases, but one slipped by me. With that said, I was curious if I would know what was happening in this book without having read book 1. I never felt like big holes were missing in characters or in the storyline because I hadn't read book 1. Although, I have already bought book 1 because I didn't want to miss out on this series.

Jacob was a man whom I greatly admired. He gave up so much just to come and help his parents. I couldn't help but really like Lukas and his story. I love that Rachel followed her dreams and was ultimately given a blessing over her wish to follow her dreams. A relationship with Jacob was never a part of the plan--and definitely not any sort of love relationship.

I wouldn't say this book is full of twists and turns. However, it's the style that it's written in that makes it a book to grab after a long day. It's an easy read that is just perfect for summer. I absolutely cannot wait to read book 3 soon! First I have to finish book 1 though!

Read more reviews of this book at http://litfusegroup.com/author/sgray.

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Enter to win a copy of A Daughter’s Dream—five winners will be chosen! Click the image below to enter to win. The winners will be announced June 8th on Shelley’s blog!

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ABOUT THE BOOK

A Daughter’s Dream (Avon Inspire, May 2016)

A young teacher and farmer discover they have much in common, especially when it comes to healing old wounds from the past . . . and finding love in one another.

Rebecca Kinsinger has always dreamed of being a teacher. But when she’s given the opportunity she’s been waiting for at Charm Amish School, she’s dismayed to discover that teaching is hard work—work she’s afraid she’s not very good at.

That is, until Lilly Yoder joins the class. A thirteen-year old who’s just lost her parents, Lilly is in need of someone like Rebecca. For the first time since starting her new job, Rebecca feels a sense of purpose. But when she meets Lilly’s uncle, Jacob, his good looks and sweet, easy-going temperament are hard to ignore. How can she even entertain romantic thoughts of Jacob when his niece is her student?

Suddenly becoming Lily’s sole caregiver, Jacob Yoder never thought he’d be a single parent—or a farmer. Having been living in Florida as a carpenter, Jacob feels more at home wielding a hammer than a backhoe. The only bright spot in his life is Rebecca Kinsinger. As Lily and Rebecca develop a bond, Jacob’s fondness for the pretty teacher grows, too.

But when a fateful accident brings them together, Rebecca and Jacob must choose between duty and desire. Will they follow the path before them? Or set out to find true happiness . . . and true love?

Learn more and purchase a copy

Shelley Shepard Gray is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers prestigious Carol Award, and a two-time HOLT Medallion winner. She lives in southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town’s bike trail.

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

Through the Shadows by Karen Barnett

This has very easily become one of my favorite series to read. Considering I don't know too much of the history of San Francisco, I have really enjoyed the historical elements of this series. Karen Barnett does an interesting job blending history and fiction and leaving her readers with a good understanding of the time period.

Through the Shadows was one of the books that left me researching a few things on my own as the story unfolded. I absolutely love when books make me curious enough to hop online and dig a little deeper.

One of the things I most admire about this book is how it focuses on something most would rather sweep under the rug and pretend doesn't exist. I love how she brought to life these brothels and revealed them for what they are and how they run. I also appreciate the courage Elizabeth has in facing dangers to help those in these places. There were a few times that I found myself with my heart racing as I wondered how things would turn out.

Charles was just as an enticing character as Elizabeth. He has his own struggles and has been beaten down, despite his family name. He's left doing a job that he'd rather not do, in more ways than one.

I hate saying goodbye to the King family, but I do look forward to the next family Karen Barnett introduces us to and the next historical time period she chooses to let her readers learn about.

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

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Enter to win a copy of Through the Shadows—five winners will be chosen! Click the image below to enter to win. The winners will be announced June 7th on Karen’s blog!

{More about Through the Shadows}

Through the Shadows (Abingdon, May 2016)
As San Francisco rises from the ashes, an age-old battle looms between corruption and the promise of new beginnings.
The devastating earthquake is just two years past, but the city of San Francisco is still trying to recover. Destruction of this magnitude is not so easy to overcome-and neither are the past regrets shadowing Elizabeth King’s hopeful future.
Hoping to right her wrongs, Elizabeth dedicates herself to helping girls rescued from slavery in Chinatown brothels, even if it means putting her own life at risk to sneak through the gloomy alleys and rooftops where dangers lurk.
Putting her life on the line for a worthy cause is admirable. But opening her heart is even more terrifying. So when Elizabeth meets attorney, Charles McKinley—a man who dreams of reforming San Francisco’s crooked politics—Elizabeth begins to doubt: Can she maintain her pretense and hide her past? Or will her secret jeopardize both their futures?
Learn more and purchase a copy.

{More About Karen Barnett}

Karen Barnett is the author of “Beyond the Ashes,” “Out of the Ruins,” and “Mistaken.” Named the 2013 Writer of Promise by Oregon Christian Writers, Karen lives in Albany, Oregon, with her husband and two kids. When she’s not writing novels, she loves speaking at women’s events, libraries, and book clubs.
Find out more about Karen at http://karenbarnettbooks.com.

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

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.

Back in the Saddle by Ruth Logan Herne

I am always thrilled when I find a new author that I thoroughly enjoy. It has been a while since I've read a new author and I haven't been able to stop thinking about this book. My 7-year-old son wanted to hold this book because of the cover. He wanted to read it because he was convinced it was a cowboy book. I had to convince him it was not a book about cowboys!

The setting of this book was absolutely beautiful to imagine. I could easily see it in my head. Angelina was one of my favorites. She is always speaking her mind and isn't afraid to live wholeheartedly. She had me laughing in certain parts. Colt is just a sweetheart. He gives up a lot to come home to his roots when his father needs him most. Even though he takes his duty to his father seriously, things aren't all perfect at home. He still has some issues that need to be worked out with his father. He still has hurt feelings and can't keep sweeping it under the rug.

This story focuses on Colt, but his two other brothers are primed and ready for a story all of their own. I really hope the other books in the series will focus on the other brothers. However, I hope that they will continue to update readers on Colt and Angelina.

And the best news for readers of this series? You don't have to wait long for the next book!

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

Changing of Hearts by Courtney Walsh

I was drawn to this book by the cover, honestly. I think the picture is beautiful and the font on the cover caught my eye right away. I was very excited to read this book because it was so beautifully done.

I read Paper Hearts and really enjoyed Courtney Walsh's style of writing. I couldn't wait for this book to come out. The story in Change of Heart moved along and kept me engaged from the very beginning. I was even excited to see some "familiar faces" in this book, too.

Evelyn thinks that her world is perfect, until some information is revealed that leaves her wondering if anything will ever be the same. As the lies begin to unfold, my heart just breaks. As a wife, I can't imagine hearing these things being revealed. She has a choice to make and it's a process.

I really liked Trevor. He owns up to his mistakes and stands by Evelyn. He isn't perfect, but he tries to be there to help Evelyn. In the midst of Evelyn's pain, Trevor realizes that he has never lost his love for Evelyn over all these years. Now Evelyn and Trevor have to see if it's too late and Evelyn has to figure out how to trust again.

My favorite thing about this series is that they are romance books, but they are not your typical romance book where the reader is constantly reminded that it's a romance. This is a romance that is unfolding beautifully.

I hope book 3 comes out soon!

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

The Goodbye Bride by Denise Hunter

• When I'm looking for a book that is going to be relaxing to read after a long day and provide me some laughs, I know Denise Hunter will never fail me. I tend to save her books to read when I have just finished a crazy week.
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The Goodbye Bride is definitely a sweet romance story. I'm not a huge fan of romance books, but for some reason I love the way Denise Hunter writes her stories. They never seem too sappy or drawn out, which makes me enjoy them so much. The characters are easy to like and i was immediately drawn to Lucy and Zac. I also appreciate that Denise Hunter leaves a little bit of mystery in this book. She doesn't immediately come out and say what all has happened, but instead leaves a bit of mystery surrounding their personal stories. There were moments where I wanted to flip forward just to find out because I'm a bit impatient, but I resisted.

This is the second book in the Summer Harbor Series, but it really can stand alone. However, I suggest not missing a book in this series! And the even better news is that there's another book coming out in September so it's not an incredibly long wait for the next one in the series.

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

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.

A Treasure Concealed by Tracie Peterson

I hated to finish this book knowing that I'd have to wait awhile longer to read the next book in the series. I absolutely loved this book and the complete storyline. I think I experienced the wide array of emotions throughout the book. At one point, I couldn't help but cover my mouth at the shock and horror of what had taken place. I just wanted to cry for Emily Carver and her dad and mom. In fact, there were several instances when this reaction happened, which surprised me because I don't normally have such a strong reaction to books unless it is well written.

Tracie Peterson is one of my favorite historical fiction authors. I enjoyed the setting in Montana, following the life of a miner and his family, who is hoping to strike it rich. Caeden easily won me over by his sweet spirit and his generosity towards the Carver family. I was endeared forever towards the end of the book and how he treated Emily and her father.

I had nothing but disgust for a few characters. I couldn't believe how brazen they were and complete tricksters. I couldn't stand the thought of them continuing on in this story because of how mean they were!

Tracie Peterson did a great job at engaging me from the very beginning of the book. There was never a boring point in the story where I felt like I wanted to just set the book down for awhile. I am really looking forward to this series.

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

Playing the Part by Jen Turano

I should preface this review by saying that I am not a girl who enjoys mystery books, but I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I wouldn't necessarily qualify it as a mystery book because the history and the humor definitely was the main focus. However, there was some mystery but only enough to make the story so incredibly hard to put down. I found myself looking for excuses to be alone so that I could just read!

I have read some books by Jen Turano so I fully expected this book to be just as good (if not better) than her previous ones. I absolutely love her writing style because they are a good mixture of humor and serious. She is engaging and draws the reader in to her story from the very first pages. I also appreciate that she continued to bringing other characters from her previous books. I hate not knowing what previous characters are up to in a series! I'm endeared to an author when they tie the whole series together with some familiar things from book 1.

Although this book is the third book in the A Class of Their Own series, it definitely can stand alone. The reader wouldn't have the same level of excitement over seeing some familiar names pop up from the previous books, but they would definitely not be lost and could enjoy the book. I'm pretty certain, though, it would make them go out and by the first two books in the series! I am always impressed when authors write a book in a series that can stand alone and doesn't leave the reader confused and frustrated and trying to figure out who is who.

Now I'm left waiting to see what Jen Turano writes next.

To read more reviews on this book, go to http://litfusegroup.com/books/playing-the-part.

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JEN TURANO

Jen Turano, author of the Ladies of Distinction series and the A Class of Their Own series, is a graduate of the University of Akron. She is a member of ACFW and lives in a suburb of Denver, Colorado.

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• Playing the Part by Jen Turano | Blog Tour and 5-Book Giveaway

ABOUT THE BOOK

Playing the Part (Bethany House, March 2016)

Can they accept who they are behind the parts they play in time to save the day?

Lucetta Plum is an actress on the rise in New York City, but is forced to abandon her starring role when a fan’s interest turns threatening. Lucetta’s widowed friend, Abigail Hart, is delighted at the opportunity to meddle in Lucetta’s life and promptly whisks her away to her grandson’s estate to hide out.

Bram Haverstein may appear to simply be a somewhat eccentric gentleman of means, but a mysterious career and a secret fascination with a certain actress mean there’s much more to him than society knows.

Lucetta, who has no interest in Abigail’s matchmaking machinations, has the best intentions of remaining cordial but coolly distant to Bram. But when she can’t ignore the strange and mysterious things going on in his house, it’ll take more than good intentions to keep her from trying to discover who Bram is behind the part he plays.

Learn more and purchase a copy.

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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 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.

Robin by Julane Hiebert

It's always fun to read a book by an author that I haven't discovered yet. I was hooked from the first pages. Julane Hiebert did an excellent job creating memorable characters that her readers would instantly connect with. I had a hard time placing this book in a genre because it's a good mix of so many different genres.

At first, I thought this book would develop at a slower pace, but it didn't. Even though it took a little bit to develop (not in a bad way), I still felt connected to the book early on. As a début novel, I fully expect this series to get better and better. I'm very excited to watch Julane Hiebert develop more and more as an author.

Robin was trying her hardest to help provide for her family and had a sense of responsibility to help her family. That's precisely why she moved to Kansas to do nothing other than help on the cattle ranch. Ty's heart is broken, but once he meets Robin in a very much unexpected way, his heart begins to heal. Part of that is thanks to a little boy who has been left orphaned after a terrible storm. When his ex-fiancée decides to show up in Ty's life again, many questions arise.

I definitely look forward to reading book two in this series, the Brides of a Feather.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Julane is first of all a child of God. She is also a wife to Bob, mother to two living sons,Kip and Rob, two daughters in heaven, two wonderful daughters-in-law, Becky and Tami, and grandmother to six perfectly wonderful grands, as well as an additional three ‘other grands’. She lives with her husband in a wee cottage by a small lake nestled in the beautiful Flint Hills of Kansas.

Though encouraged by many to pen the story of raising two daughters with an incurable disease, she has chosen to incorporate the lessons learned into the lives of her not-too-perfect characters. Her passion is to present the promises and hope found in God’s Word in down-to-earth, everyday experiences through her stories.

Julane loves reading, decorating, junking, antiques, and chocolate! No particular order, but one would be safe to insert chocolate between all other interests.



ABOUT THE BOOK

In 1877 the Wenghold sisters inherited an overwhelming debt with their father’s passing. An uncle they’ve never met offers a solution—come help on his Kansas cattle ranch. The oldest sister, Robin, agrees to go.

Ty Morgan has suffered through a year of misery after being jilted by the town beauty a few months before their wedding. But a tornado whirls an unexpected breath of hope into his heart when he rescues Robin, his neighbor’s newly arrived niece, and a small boy who was orphaned by the storm.

Robin’s crippled leg prevents her from being a real help to Uncle John, but she seems to be exactly who Ty needs to heal his broken heart. Until his former fiancée returns and a mysterious, elusive stranger casts worry over the entire community.

A woman determined to honor her obligations, a man entangled in a long ago-made commitment, an orphaned child in need of security . . . Can God guide these three souls to peace and fulfillment together?

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

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

Kissed by a Cowboy by Debra Clopton

I have looked forward to this book ever since the previous book had come out months ago. I have so enjoyed the story of the Monahan brothers. This has been one series that I have remembered each brother and their wives. I've picked up the books not needing to look back to the previous book to remind myself what had happened. With the number of books I read in a year, I'm always impressed when an author writes in such a memorable way with memorable characters.

Jarrod Monahan has always seemed a little mysterious to me. His other two brothers didn't seem as tough, but Jarrod always seemed to be so focused on the ranch that he didn't have time to meet any woman. But that all changes when Cassidy Starr returns home. She's a spirited girl who has had a lot of heartache. She has also had a past with Jarrod, but that doesn't stop her from speaking her mind. I loved their first meeting when she returns home. I definitely enjoyed a good laugh at that part of the book.

Considering Clapton has written about all of the Monahan boys, I'm assuming that she will not be writing any more about these boys. However, I'm very sad to say bye to this family. I love Pop and his relationship with the boys. The family has worked together to save the ranch and now they are enjoying the fruits of their labor. I hate to say goodbye to this family.

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

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About the Book

Kissed by a Cowboy (Thomas Nelson, February 2016)
Cassidy was looking for a home and a place to belong . . . not for a cowboy to steal her heart.
Having lived through her parents’ endless string of “matrimonial bliss gone wrong,” Cassidy Starr knows when the odds are not in her favor. Divorced and humiliated, her faith on rocky ground, Cassidy is through with love. She’s been bucked off that horse far too many times. Instead, she returns to Wishing Springs, Texas, and the rundown farm she’s inherited from her great aunt Roxie. She’ll reopen the strawberry farm and a bed & breakfast and follow in her aunt’s footsteps, remaining forever-independent, happy . . . and single.
Rancher Jarrod Monahan’s hands are full running the ranch, looking after his ailing grandfather, and chasing down a group of rustlers on the loose. He’s pushed his longing for a family to the bottom of his list of priorities. Besides, he was in love once but ran scared and lost his shot at happiness. But suddenly, the biggest regret of his life has moved in next door with a wounded heart, determined to become a spinster . . . and that’s a challenge that Jarrod can’t pass up.
Jarrod sets his mind to breaking down the walls around Cassidy’s stubborn heart. How can he show her that a cowboy’s kiss lasts forever? For the good folks of Wishing Springs, falling in love has never been so much fun to witness.
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Debra Clopton

Debra Clopton is a multi-award winning novelist and has written more than 22 novels. Along with writing, Debra helps her husband teach the youth at their local Cowboy Church. Debra's goal is to shine a light toward God while she entertains readers with her words.
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I received this book free from Litfuse Publicity Group and Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.





An Amish Market by Amy Clipston, Kathleen Fuller, Kelly Irvin, and Vannetta Chapman

I really enjoy reading these Amish fiction books that include some of my top authors in this genre. It's so wonderful to have four novellas written by each author included in the same book. Each author has a slightly different writing style and it brings such a variation to the book that I simply enjoy.

Love Birds by Amy Clipston is a beautiful love story between Ellie and Lloyd. It was sad to see Ellie and her mom have to struggle so much due to the loss of both Ellie's dad and brother. Now Ellie takes it upon herself to provide for her mother, especially since the man she has dreamed about doesn't seem interested in her.

A Bid for Love by Kathleen Fuller focuses on Hannah Lynne and Ezra. Ezra thinks he's too old and is set in his ways, although he can't deny that he has noticed Hannah and has even gone out of his way once a week to visit her for a tiny amount of time.

Sweeter Than Honey by Kelly Irvin introduces Isabella and Will Glick. I found this story interesting because the location is different from the other stories. It focuses on a southern state.... Texas! I will admit to laughing when Isabella broke a jar, but then I wasn't too fond of Will and his response afterwards. However, as the story continued, I understood more of why he gave that particular response.

Love in Store by Vannetta Chapman brings in Stella Schrock and David.Stoltzfus. This novella is different because David is a widower and is definitely not looking for love at all. In fact, that's the farthest thing from his mind. To be honest, Stella is more focused on the mill and figuring out why someone would want the mill closed and who it could possibly be. However, more is in store for these two who are focused on anything but each other.

Each of these novellas are obviously romance novellas. I wouldn't necessarily say there was a huge element of surprise because you ultimately know the main characters and who will probably end up together. However, I never felt that knowing where the plot was headed ever took away from the enjoyment I had in reading the stories. They have each been different, yet complemented each other in a way that does not leave the reader feeling like a completely different book is being written halfway through.

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

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.
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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.