Fit to Be Tied by Debby Mayne

I am absolutely enjoying the Bucklin Family Reunion series. I cannot wait for the third book to come out. Everything about this series shouts southern charm, from the cover to the story. It has everything you could want, from drama to humor. Needless to say, this is one family that won't let you down when you're needing a good laugh or just some good characters that you can't help but love.

Staying true to the format of her first book, each chapter tells the story of a different character. She balances going back and forth seamlessly, never leaving the reader feeling frustrated that things are left undone. She gives the reader time to adjust to the characters so it flows nicely.

I really can't pick out a favorite character, but Bucky surprised me in this book. I was so proud of his wife and the changes she had decided on. And I really didn't expect the ending to be like she chose. Picking up where this book ended, I'm curious to see the romance and drama in the next book! I'm so excited for what I lovingly call "my girls," meaning the three cousins in this book....Shay, Sally, and Sara. I feel that the story was more focused on the twins this time, but you do get your fill of all of the other characters that you grew to love from the first book.

Debby Mayne has a hit with this series, in my opinion. It was a fantastic idea with great characters and so many places that you can go. Please don't make me wait long for Book 3 and don't stop yet!

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I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

The Hawaiian Discovery by Wanda Brunstetter & Jean Brunstetter

     Welcome to Hawaii! For someone who would absolutely love a vacation at this moment, this book takes me on a little escape to the islands.  Having not read the first book in this series, the Hawaiian Quilt, I decided to read that book before I read this one. While you could definitely read this as a stand-alone novel, I don't think it would have the same level of meaning unless you started with the Hawaiian Quilt. I felt like it really built off of the first book and you would be missing half of the story if you didn't start there.

     The Hawaiian Discovery starts on the mainland, where the first book ends at, and then they find themselves over on the islands for some unexpected reasons. Without giving too much away, this story does carry on with the story of Mandy, but it really focuses on Ellen. Ellen is Mandy's best friend and she is willing to sacrifice a lot for her best friend. I kept thinking how different our world would look if everyone had a best friend like her!

    The writing style in this book felt different to me. I'm not sure if it's because of the different characters and short chapters or if it was something else. I liked the short chapters, but I felt like just as I was getting into the new character for that particular chapter, it would switch. I don't think that I would have changed anything, except maybe put a little bit more of each person together to give the reader some time to adjust.

    I really enjoy books on the Amish and Wanda Brunstetter has been one of my top authors for Amish fiction for a long time. I appreciate that she thought out of the box for the setting of this book. It set itself apart and told a sweet story in a fun setting. I hope that she does more books like this, as far as a setting that is unique where you wouldn't really picture the Amish going.

   I'm looking forward to reading her Christmas book that is coming out really soon!

                                                _____________________________

I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required, and all thoughts expressed are my own.

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.

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 Inheritance by Michael Phillips

When I see a cover that I think is beautiful, I can't help but comment on it. I'm not certain what it is that is so eye-catching to me, but I found it so appealing. As I read the story, I think it depicted the story beautifully and simply.

Michael Phillips is not a new author to me. I really enjoy reading his books and the way that Michael Phillips writes. He does an excellent job at including just enough details to keep the story moving and interesting. I never felt like I needed the story to move along a little quicker, despite the length of the book. That was the only downside for a mother of little kids....it was a long book and I wanted to be sure to read every word!

I was so impressed with the amount of research Phillips had put into the book. I could tell that he had spent a lot of time researching the period, the language, the culture, and the time period. I knew absolutely nothing of the Shetland Islands, but I learned so much that I found I was hoping in the internet to get a visual of the place he was describing. Any fiction book that makes me do research, as well, is definitely a winner. That doesn't happen very regularly. It was a book that I didn't want to just check off on my list, but I truly wanted to sit and enjoy the entire thing.

This is the first book in his brand new series, so I am definitely looking forward to reading the rest of the books. I hope he keeps some of the same characters!

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

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MICHAEL PHILLIPS

Michael Phillips is a bestselling author with more than 70 of his own titles. In addition, he has served as editor/redactor of nearly 30 more books. He is known as the man responsible for the reawakened interest in George MacDonald of the last 30 years. In addition to the MacDonald titles adapted/edited for today's reader, his publishing efforts in bringing back full-length quality facsimile editions also spawned renewed interest in MacDonald's original work. Michael and his wife, Judy, spend time each year in Scotland but make their home near Sacramento, California.

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Inheritance (Bethany House, April 2016)

The death of the clan patriarch has thrown the tiny Shetland Islands community of Whale’s Reef into turmoil. 

Everyone assumed MacGregor Tulloch’s heir to be his grand-nephew David, a local favorite, but when it is discovered that MacGregor left no will, David’s grasping cousin Hardy submits his own claim to the inheritance, an estate that controls most of the island’s land. And while Hardy doesn’t enjoy much popular support, he has the backing of a shadowy group of North Sea oil investors. The courts have frozen the estate’s assets while the competing claims are investigated, leaving many of the residents in financial limbo. The future of the island—and its traditional way of life—hangs in the balance.

Loni Ford is enjoying her rising career in a large investment firm in Washington, DC. Yet in spite of her outward success, she is privately plagued by questions of identity. Orphaned as a young child, she was raised by her paternal grandparents, and while she loves them dearly, she feels completely detached from her roots. That is until a mysterious letter arrives from a Scottish solicitor. . . .

Past and present collide in master storyteller Phillips’s dramatic new saga of loss and discovery, of grasping and grace, and of the dreams of men and women everywhere.

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.

A Dream of Miracles by Ruth Reid

Real. Honest. Life. That's how I would sum up this book in three words. Ruth Reid didn't write a cozy, comfy book that takes you to one emotion and leaves you. There were smiles and tears as I read this story. It was real and raw. My heart ached as Mattie experienced so much heartache. I say this book is real because I think we all have seasons in our lives where it feels like we are hit hard with one thing after another. I just came out of a season like that so perhaps that's why my heart ached some through this story.

When Mattie has something happen with her children and looses just about everything, my heart broke. That touched my mommy heart and I can't imagine going through all of that.I know that this story is fiction, but there were a few times where I had to remind myself of that fact. I was so wrapped up into the story that it easily felt like I was reading an autobiography!

Ruth Reid did an excellent job at connecting the readers to her words and capturing the hearts of her readers. That isn't easy to do with me always because I tend to have my reading time broken up and interrupted by children! For me to be able jump right back into the book and feel like I hadn't even left it was a neat thing for me to experience because it happens so rarely.

A Dream of Miracles is the third book in the Amish Wonders Series. I feel like you could easily read this book as a stand-alone, but you really don't want to miss the first two books in this series.

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

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RUTH REID

Ruth Reid is a CBA and ECPA bestselling author of the Heaven on Earth series. She’s a full-time pharmacist who lives in Florida with her husband and three children. When attending Ferris State University School of Pharmacy in Big Rapids, Michigan, she lived on the outskirts of an Amish community and had several occasions to visit the Amish farms. Her interest grew into love as she saw the beauty in living a simple life.

ABOUT THE BOOK

A Dream of Miracles (Thomas Nelson, April 2016)

Amish widow Mattie vows never to love again . . . until a suspicious outsider with a shadowy past comes crashing into her fragile world.

Mattie Diener can barely keep it together. A young Amish widow and mother of two young children, she faces the lingering heartbreak of lost love, her son’s mysterious illness, and a torrent of accusations that threaten to undo her.

Bo Lambright is a fast-rising social services investigator whose high-society mother won’t rest until she finds his Mrs. Right. Despite Bo’s worldly success, the raw ache of a shadowy past and a series of unsettling dreams have left him reeling.

When Mattie and Bo cross paths, all signs point to disaster. Yet as they face a crucible of trials and tragedies together, longings begin to stir that seem destined only to end in more heartbreak. Is a miracle possible—not only of healing but of forbidden love? What secrets lie in Bo’s dreams? And will Mattie find the courage to face her uncertain future . . . or will she simply run away?

Learn more and purchase a copy.

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

Simple Pleasures by Marianne Jantzi

I am a big reader of Amish fiction and nonfiction. I am really intrigued by their way of life and enjoy learning what they do during their days. Usually, I only get to read about this in fiction books or when I get the opportunity to read a very few nonfiction books on the Amish. I am thrilled that this series is sharing the thoughts and hearts of so many women. I don't know how I haven't heard of this series before now, with this being book 4! It is so fresh and delightful to read.

Marianne Jantzi is an Amish homemaker with children about the same ages as mine. I enjoyed her stories that were parts of her journal entries. It flows differently than most books because it is grouped together based on themes, not necessarily in order of events. It does mean that the ages of the children and stage of life change throughout the same chapter or the same section, but I didn't find that to disrupt the flow of her stories.

I liked the thoughts that she shared about motherhood, teaching, and being a wife. Her husband seems to be a funny man. One of my favorite stories has to do with the chickens getting a steak dinner! 

The whole book is wonderful, but I really liked the recipes in the back, as well as the FAQ page where she answers questions about the Amish. I was so glad she put a schedule of her day in the book, too. It was neat to see how different it is from my own schedule. It's hard work, but it seemed so much simpler and the calendar less crowded.

This series is allowing Amish, Mennonite, and Hutterite writers to share their lives with readers. I've never even heard of Hutterite, so I'm looking forward to understanding more about these women!

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

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

MARIANNE JANTZI

Marianne Jantzi is an Amish writer and homemaker in Ontario, Canada. Formerly a teacher in an Amish school, Jantzi now educates and inspires through her “Northern Reflections” column for The Connection, a magazine directed mainly to Amish and plain communities across the U.S. and Canada. She and her husband have four young children and run a shoe store among the Milverton Amish settlement of Ontario.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Simple Pleasures: Stories from My Life as an Amish Mother(MennoMedia, March 2016)

Young Amish homemaker Marianne Jantzi invites readers into her family’s life on the snowy plains of Ontario.

The mother of four young children and wife of a storekeeper, Jantzi writes about her daily routines and heartfelt faith with equal measures of wit and warmth. Sewing, cleaning, cooking, gardening, and helping to manage the store take up most hours in her day, but Jantzi finds time to pen columns for the Connection, a magazine beloved by Amish and Mennonite readers across the United States and Canada. Never sugarcoating the frustrations of motherhood, Jantzi tells it like it is, broken washing machine and bickering children and all. But through her busy days, Jantzi finds strength in simple pleasures of family, fellowship with her Amish community, and quiet time with God.

Learn more and purchase a copy.

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.
• 
  

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.

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.
Learn more and purchase a copy.

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.