(Glass Road Blog Tour) Mother of Pearl by Kellie Coates Gilbert

Barrie Graeber has two great kids, a loving husband, and a respected job as the high school counselor in her close-knit community. Without warning, everything unravels when her teenage daughter, Pearl, is betrayed by friends and lashes out.

Nothing prepares this mother for the helplessness that follows when her attempts to steer her daughter back on course fail and Pearl shuts her out . . . or when she discovers the unthinkable about her nemesis, the football coach.

Emotionally riveting and profoundly moving, MOTHER OF PEARL brings us into the heart of a mother bound by an incredible burden, who ultimately finds she must recognize her own vulnerability and learn to trust in something much bigger.

My thoughts...

There's nothing like a mother's love and Kellie has given us a peak into the grief a mother suffers in losing a child. This one was hard to read, especially the parts where the parents, Barrie and Steve, are at the mortuary and graveside of their daughter, Pearl. After the service when the family is trying to go on with their lives is just heartbreaking.


Barrie almost sinks to depths where she couldn't come back. Steve buries himself in work and their son feels guilt because he doesn't think his sister knew he loved her. Then they learn something that will change their lives as well as everyone in the community. I don't know if I could've done what Barrie did in putting her daughter's mistakes as well as the entire family's out there for the world to see.

A very well written debut novel, I look forward to more from this author. 5 out of 5 stars!

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

A Love Surrendered

Orphaned in Iowa, Annie Kennedy moves to Boston to stay with her spinster aunt. She longs for romance to fill the void left by her parents' death. But when she falls hard for Steven O'Connor, the man who broke an engagement to her sister, Annie is worried. Will he break her heart too when he discovers who she really is?

My thoughts...

Seventeen year old Annie and her young sister move to Boston after their parents die. Annie meets up with college friends of her older sister, Maggie, who now lives in California. Annie is ready to grow up and have the kind of experiences Maggie did. One of the first people she meets is Steven, her sister's former flame, and she falls head over heels in love with him. He is attracted to her as well and doesn't know she is Maggie's sister. Things heat up until Maggie shows up with a secret that could tear everyone apart.

I did not like Steven's character, he treated Annie like she was a bratty kid, and he talked like a gangster from the old black and white tv days. His family, Annie's family, and Annie herself are very likeable people. I liked that Annie had a heart for God. I give this one 4 out of 5 stars.

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingStill Life in ShadowsRiver North; New Edition edition (August 1, 2012)byAlice Wisler

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Alice was born in Osaka, Japan in the sixties. Her parents were Presbyterian career missionaries. As a young child, Alice loved to walk down to the local stationer's store to buy notebooks, pencils and scented erasers. In her room, she created stories. The desire to be a published famous author has never left her. Well, two out of three isn't bad. She's the author of Rain Song, How Sweet It Is, Hatteras Girl and A Wedding Invitation (all published by Bethany House).

Alice went to Eastern Mennonite University after graduating from Canadian Academy, an international high school in Kobe, Japan. She majored in social work and has worked across the U.S. in that field. She taught ESL (English as a Second Language) in Japan and at a refugee camp in the Philippines. She also studied Spanish at a language institute in San Jose, Costa Rica.

She has four children--Rachel, Daniel, Benjamin and Elizabeth. Daniel died on 2/2/97 from cancer treatments at the age of four. Since then, Alice founded Daniel's House Publications in her son's memory. This organization reaches out to others who have also lost a child to death. In 2000 and 2003, Alice compiled recipes and memories of children across the world to publish two memorial cookbooks, Slices of Sunlight and Down the Cereal Aisle.

ABOUT THE BOOK

It's been fifteen years since Gideon Miller ran away from his Amish community in Carlisle, Pennsylvania as a boy of fifteen. Gideon arrives in the Smoky Mountains town of Twin Branches and settles in at the local auto mechanic's garage. He meets a host of interesting characters -the most recent acquaintances are Kiki, an autistic teen, and her sister Mari. Known as the "Getaway Savior" he helps other Amish boys and girls relocate to life in modern America.

One day the phone rings. On the other end is his brother Moriah calling from Florida. Of course Gideon welcomes his brother to stay with him and offers him a job. But Moriah is caught in a web which ends in his death and forces Gideon to return to the town of his youth, with his brother's body in the back of a hearse and Mari and Kiki at his side. He must face not only the community he ran away from years ago but also his own web of bitterness. Will he be able to give his anger over to God and forgive his father?

If you would like to read the first chapter excerpt of Still Life in Shadows, go HERE.


My thoughts...

Gideon Miller left the Amish community 15 years ago. He is known as a quiet yet strong man, what people don't know is that he harbors resentment toward his abusive father and has turned his heart away not only from his father but from God. Things begin to change when he meets and autistic girl named Kiki.

A wonderful story of redemption with good characters and subplots. 5 out of 5 stars.

Love Comes to Paradise by Mary Ellis

Nora King believes she is a woman in love. When Elam Detweiler leaves the ultraconservative Amish district of Harmony, Maine, and moves to Paradise, Missouri, Nora follows soon after. But does she love the man or the independence and freethinking he represents? Although she finds good work in her new town, Nora can't seem to capture Elam's Englisch-leaning heart, no matter how hard she tries.

And then, unexpectedly, Lewis Miller comes from Harmony to offer Nora what every woman needs--a lifetime of unconditional love. As Lewis attempts to claim her heart, Elam's interest piques. Will Nora come to her senses before Elam's thoughtless choices ruin her reputation beyond repair?

My thoughts...

The second book in the New Beginning series is as good as the first. We find Nora King on her way to Paradise, MO. to find the man she believes she fell in love with back in Harmony, ME. Elam is beer drinking, cigarette smoking, lying, stealing, man who can't decide if he's Amish or English.

Lewis Miller follows Nora to Paradise to court her. What ensues is a time of disaster, sadness, and finally the truth. What I didn't like was that in this book Nora is not the same girl she was in the first, I was disappointed that suddenly she went from a freethinker to a proper plain woman even before reaching Paradise.

There's a wonderful tale of love and forgiveness and a happy ending for all. Likeable characters in a pleasant town. 5 out of 5 stars.

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Publication date: February 2013

The Memory Jar

Every year, 30--40 young Amish men descend on the cozy little town of West Kootenai, Montana, arriving in the spring to live there for six months and receive 'resident' status for the hunting season in the fall. They arrive as bachelors, but go home with brides!

Sarah Shelter has lived in West Kootenai for the last ten years and wonders if she will ever fall in love. Since the tragic death of her best friend, she carries her memories in a jar along with the small items connected to them.

For just as long, she's also been carrying around her emotions instead of allowing them to penetrate deep into her heart.Now she's met a kind and gentle man who may be able to break down the wall. But can Sarah risk her heart to finally achieve her dreams?

My thoughts...

Loved this book! Such a great story about falling in love. Sarah is interested in one of the bachelors and one of them is interested in her, however, they're not one and the same.

On a hike to the top of a mountain Sarah hurts her ankle, while the others make their way to the top she stays put. When the others don't come back she tries to find her way to the path leading down and gets lost. Jathan leaves the group and sets out to find her. They end up having to stay the night on the mountain and things change for Sarah.

Before they can spend much time together Jathan is called home on an emergency. Sarah is devastated. I won't give the rest away but The Memory Jar is such a sweet story of healing, falling in love, and fulfilling dreams. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.

I received an ecopy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Take the Trophy and Run

Like Mitford and Lake Wobegon before that, Bloomfield is a place we could all call home. Here, the residents enjoy a splash fountain in the town square, dine at the “Fancy Schmantsy” on tree-lined Main Street, and dream of reaching the 10,000 population mark -- only 22 more folks to go!

The Bloomfield Garden Club, an all-ages group of lovable oddballs that will stop at nothing to make everything beautiful, maintains this piece of heaven on earth. But even such idyllic places as this have their share of dramatic characters and stories to be told.

Take, for instance, craft store owner Amber Weathersby. She wants to be a member of the garden club but has never received the blessing of a green thumb. Her friend, Stan the mechanic, has helped as much as he can -- even adding a timed sprinkler system to Amber’s garden -- but the results never live up to the club’s expectations.

Her only claim to fame with that gang is her semi-famous garden gnome, Gnorman, who gets to hold the prized trophy each year in the Bloomfield Spring Fling contest’s winning garden.

But this year, instead of being the life of the party, her little star is gnomegnapped, and worse, the club’s irreplaceable trophy has gone missing with him. While Amber is chasing the gnome around town trying to win the trophy, Stan is chasing Amber, trying to win her heart.

My thoughts...

This is the story of a kidnapped Gnome and the pursuit of the owner, Amber, along with Stan, her best friend since childhood, to find it. You see, the gnome held a trophy in its hand that was to be awarded to the Garden Club's winner. Ransom notes (without a ransom) appear all over town.

I have to say the reason for the kidnapped gnome is surprising, I enjoyed this humorous story and the relationship that grew during the hunt for the kidnapper. The characters are charming, the storyline is wonderful. A must read if you need a break from more serious books! 5 out of 5 stars!

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

NIV Rock Solid Study Bible for Teens

This all-new, full-featured NIV Bible is great for teens looking to grow their faith, increase meaning in their lives, and find hope for their future.

The Rock Solid Bible for Teens is a timely guide for teens grappling with big questions about the world, their future, and their faith. Featuring the complete New International Version text, apologetics helps, hundreds of call-outs, and concrete promises for the future, the Rock Solid Bible provides firm traction for the development of beliefs and behavior rooted in the unchanging love, guidance, and promises of God.

My thoughts...

I really like this Bible for teens, it has various features that will help provide understanding and insight such as the Rock Solid Promises, and will make you think about the scripture you've just read. There is a concordance and maps that are in color. Very nice design with a good font size and the size of the Bible is just right. It is a hardback, some people prefer it but I'm partial to the softback.

This would make a great Christmas gift for a teen. 5 out of 5 stars.

I received a copy of this Bible free in exchange for an honest review.

The River

“You were made for The River . . .”

Gabriel Clarke is mysteriously drawn to The River, a ribbon of frothy white water carving its way through steep canyons high in the Colorado Rockies. The rushing waters beckon him to experience freedom and adventure.

But something holds him back—the memory of the terrible event he witnessed on The River when he was just five years old—something no child should ever see.

Chains of fear and resentment imprison Gabriel, keeping him from discovering the treasures of The River. He remains trapped, afraid to take hold of the life awaiting him.

When he returns to The River after years away, his heart knows he is finally home. His destiny is within reach. Claiming that destiny will be the hardest—and bravest—thing he has ever done.

My thoughts...

Four year old Gabriel watches his father drown while rescuing a kayaker from the river. He is sent to live with his mother and struggles with fear and sadness.She tries to help him but is unable to. Years later he goes on a white water rafting trip on the river where his father died. Part of him is terrified and part of him is drawn to the river.

This book is about Gabriel's struggle to come to terms with not only his father's death but with the river that took him. Very interesting read, kind of an allegory. I enjoyed it. 4 out of 5 stars.

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Stuck in a Good Book Giveaway Hop

Welcome to the Stuck in a Good Book Giveaway Hop!

This hop is hosted by I Am a Reader, Not a Writer and Stuck in Books.

Each participating blog has their own entry rules and geographic limits, so be sure to read the rules for each one. This giveaway is open to US residents. This hop starts September 20 and runs through September 25 at midnight.

I'm giving away a mystery box of books...romance, mystery...you'll have to wait and see!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Celebrate with Sarah by entering to win a eReader (winner's choice of Kindle Fire or Nook Color)!

See what folks are saying about With Every Letter!

One fortunate winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire or Nook Color (winner’s choice)
• Handmade With Every Letter First Aid Kit
• With Every Letter by Sarah Sundin

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on September 26th. Winner will be announced at the “With Every Letter” Author Chat Facebook Party on 9/27. Connect with Sarah, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at a trivia contest, and chat with readers just like yourself. There will also be gift certificates, books and a Book Club Prize Pack to be won (10 copies for your book club or small group)!

So grab your copy of With Every Letter and join Sarah on the evening of the September 27th for a chance to connect with Sarah and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the book – don’t let that stop you from coming!)
Don't miss a moment of the RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 27th!

Double Blind by Brandilyn Collins

Desperate people make desperate choices.

Twenty-nine-year-old Lisa Newberry can barely make it through the day.
Suddenly widowed and a survivor of a near-fatal attack, she is wracked
with grief and despair. Then she hears of a medical trial for a tiny brain
chip that emits electrical pulses to heal severe depression. At rope’s end,
Lisa offers herself as a candidate.

When she receives her letter of acceptance for the trial, Lisa is at first
hopeful. But—brain surgery. Can she really go through with that? What
if she receives only the placebo?

What if something far worse goes wrong?

Written in the relentless style for which Brandilyn Collins is known,
Double Blind is a psychological thriller with mind-bending twists.
Lisa faces choices that drive her to the brink, and one wrong move
could cost the lives of many.

My thoughts...

Lisa Newberry suffers from depression after the death of her husband and several miscarriages. Upon hearing about a new treatment she wants in on the clinical trial and has a brain chip implanted which promises to take away the sadness but not the memories. Let me tell you, she has no idea what she's in for !

Collins has written another riveting suspense novel! Entertaining and yet heartwarming this one will keep you turning page after page without stopping! 5 out of 5 stars.

I received an ecopy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Saving Gideon

Gideon Fisher wants one thing out of life -- to be left alone. This is not the Amish way, but he’s devastated after the death of his wife and son to the point of losing his faith. He buys a farm on the outskirts of the district and pulls away from his community. But when a freak spring snowstorm brings a beautiful Englisher to his farm, what choice does Gideon have but to let her in?

Dallas socialite Avery Ann Hamilton is intrigued by the Amish farmer who pulls her out of the snow and into his austere lifestyle. Poor little rich girl, Avery has just gone through (yet another) bad breakup. Every man she meets only wants her for her father’s money. All she has ever wanted is to be loved for herself. Avery soon discovers the Oklahoma Amish country is the perfect place to hide out and heal her broken heart.

But she finds a peace in those back roads that she’s never felt before. Now her life has purpose and meaning as she connects with God and those around her. And there’s something more as she begins to care for this man who needs both love and forgiveness.

Gideon never wanted to live again much less fall in love, but Avery finds her way into his heart, showing him the beauty of life and God’s greatness. Yet as the feelings between Avery and Gideon grow, can they overcome their dissimilar lifestyles, or will their sheer differences pull them apart?

My thoughts...

Avery surprises her fiance by flying out to tell him she will marry him....tonight! She gets surprised when she opens the door to his hotel room and finds him with another woman.

Driving back to the airport during a snowstorm she slides off the road and the car tumbles down the embankment.

Gideon is still grieving the loss of his wife and son, and is blaming himself for their deaths. Hearing a horn blaring at night he goes out into the storm to find out what's going on and finds Avery unconscious with her head resting on the steering wheel dressed in a skimpy cocktail dress. With her is a tiny pampered Yorkie named Louis V after the famous designer.

Wealthy Englisher Avery and Amish Gideon get to know each other and begin to fall in love. Both know it would be impossible for them to have a relationship and after a while the elders approach Gideon about confessing his sins and coming back to the church. Avery does wonders for Gideon, helping him to get his faith back and see that he isn't the reason his family is dead.

I enjoyed the story very much until it came to the ending. Throughout the entire book they fight their attraction to each other knowing it would never work, then suddenly it will work. I think it ended too abruptly, there could've been more leading up to the reason why a relationship will work. 4 out 5 stars.

I received an ecopy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Life with Lily

For a child, every day is a thing of wonder. And for six-year-old Lily Lapp, every day is a new opportunity for blessings, laughter, family, and a touch of mischief. As she explores her world, goes to school, spends time with her family, and gets into a bit of trouble with her friends, Lily learns what it means to be Amish and what it means to grow up. From getting a new teacher to welcoming a new sibling, Lily's life is always full of adventure.

My thoughts...

This is the first of four novels about life with Lily. A charming little girl who gets into mischief and gives you lots of smiles and adventures while reading her story. We learn about her world, her days at school, and her family.

This puts me in mind of the Little House books, loved those when I was a kid. The Life with Lily books are recommended for kids ages 8-12 but I think kids closer to 7-8 will enjoy them most. 5 out of 5 stars.

I received an ecopy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

With Every Letter by Sarah Sundin

Lt. Mellie Blake is a nurse serving in the 802nd Medical Squadron, Air Evacuation, Transport. As part of a morale building program, she reluctantly enters into an anonymous correspondence with Lt. Tom MacGilliver, an officer in the 908th Engineer Aviation Battalion in North Africa. As their letters crisscross the Atlantic, Tom and Mellie develop a unique friendship despite not knowing the other's true identity.

When both are transferred to Algeria, the two are poised to meet face to face for the first time. Will they overcome their fears and reveal who they are, or will their future be held hostage to their past? And can they learn to trust God and embrace the gift of love he offers them?

Combining excellent research and attention to detail with a flair for romance, Sarah Sundin brings to life the perilous challenges of WWII aviation, nursing, and true love.

My thoughts...

During WWII shy Mellie Blake takes a position as a trauma flight nurse and agrees to be a part of a letter writing campaign corresponding with a lonely soldier. The only rule is that they remain anonymous. Mellie has always had touble making friends all her life. Lt. Tom MacGilliver and Mellie have a lot in common, his father is a murderer and Tom believes that because he is his father's son that he is no good either, and has had trouble making friends. These two end up writing to each other and though this was supposed to be friendship only they end up falling in love.

I enjoyed getting to know the characters as they got to know one another, they are believable and very likeable.

Tom is such a decent man with a kind heart. This is a sweet story, however, I had a hard time getting started with the book as it is a slow beginning. I had Tom's identity figured out early on and didn't particularly like the way the author let them meet each other. It didn't make much sense to me.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars.

“Available September 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

The Bridesmaid by Beverly Lewis

This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingThe BridesmaidBethany House Publishers (September 11, 2012)byBeverly Lewis



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Beverly's first venture into adult fiction is the best-selling trilogy, The Heritage of Lancaster County, including The Shunning, a suspenseful saga of Katie Lapp, a young Amish woman drawn to the modern world by secrets from her past. The book is loosely based on the author's maternal grandmother, Ada Ranck Buchwalter, who left her Old Order Mennonite upbringing to marry a Bible College student. One Amish-country newspaper claimed Beverly's work to be "a primer on Lancaster County folklore" and offers "an insider's view of Amish life."



Booksellers across the country, and around the world, have spread the word of Beverly's tender tales of Plain country life. A clerk in a Virginia bookstore wrote, "Beverly's books have a compelling freshness and spark. You just don't run across writing like that every day. I hope she'll keep writing stories about the Plain people for a long, long time."



A member of the National League of American Pen Women, as well as a Distinguished Alumnus of Evangel University, Lewis has written over 80 books for children, youth, and adults, many of them award-winning. She and her husband, David, make their home in Colorado, where they enjoy hiking, biking, and spending time with their family. They are also avid musicians and fiction "book worms."



ABOUT THE BOOK

The Latest in Chart-Topping Amish Fiction from Beverly Lewis



Twenty-seven-year-old Joanna Kurtz has made several trips to the altar, but never as a bride. The single young Amishwoman is a closet writer with a longing to be published something practically unheard of in her Lancaster County community. Yet Joanna's stories aren't her only secret. She also has a beau who is courting her from afar, unbeknownst even to her sister, Cora, who, though younger, seems to have suitors to spare.



Eben Troyer is a responsible young Amishman who hopes to make Joanna Kurtz his bride--if he can ever leave his parents' farm in Shipshewana, Indiana. Yet with his only brother off in the English world, intent on a military career, Eben's hopes for building a life with his dear Joanna are dimming, and patience is wearing thin. Will Joanna ever be more than a bridesmaid?



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




My thoughts...

Unmarried Joanna has been a bridesmaid many times, this latest wedding has left a rift between Joanna and her younger sister who teases her about always being a bridesmaid. The family goes out of town to a funeral where Joanna meets a young Amish man on the beach, Eben. They are drawn to each other immediately. Their relationship grows as they exchange letters and eventually want to get married. The story is how they work out their relationship and face the obstacles of an impending marriage.

I'm sorry to say this book did not impress me, it was predictable and a bit boring. No major excitement or surprises, no depth to the characters. Disappointedly I give it 3 out of 5 stars.

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher through CFBA in exchange for an honest review.

Enter to win two of Dan Walsh's books!

For the for the next week, starting today and running till next Monday, September 17th, Dan Walsh is celebrating the release of his new novel, The Reunion, with a 10-book giveaway contest!

Five winners will each receive a signed copy of The Reunion, as well as his third novel, The Deepest Waters. (He’s including this book because it was named a finalist for an ACFW Carol Award for book-of-the-year). Click on the link below to see how easily you can enter the contest!

http://danwalshbooks.com/the-reunion-book-giveaway-contest/

Found by Shelley Shepherd Gray

This week, theChristian Fiction Blog Allianceis introducingFoundAvon Inspire; Original edition (September 4, 2012)byShelley Shepard Gray



ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Since 2000, Shelley Sabga has sold over thirty novels to numerous publishers, including HarperCollins, Harlequin, Abingdon Press, and Avon Inspire. She has been interviewed by NPR, and her books have been highlighted in numerous publications, including USA Today and The Wall Street Journal.



Under the name Shelley Shepard Gray, Shelley writes Amish romances for HarperCollins’ inspirational line, Avon Inspire. Her recent novel, The Protector, the final book in her “Families of Honor” series, hit the New York Times List, and her previous novel in the same series, The Survivor, appeared on the USA Today bestseller list. Shelley has won the prestigious Holt Medallion for her books, Forgiven and Grace, and her novels have been chosen as Alternate Selections for the Doubleday/Literary Guild Book Club. Her first novel with Avon Inspire, Hidden, was an Inspirational Reader’s Choice finalist.



Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education. She now lives in southern Ohio and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two children in college, and is an active member of her church. She serves on committees, volunteers in the church office, and currently leads a Bible study group, and she looks forward to the opportunity to continue to write novels that showcase her Christian ideals.



When she’s not writing, Shelley often attends conferences and reader retreats in order to give workshops and publicize her work. She’s attended RWA’s national conference six times, the ACFW conference and Romantic Times Magazine’s annual conference as well as traveled to New Jersey, Birmingham, and Tennessee to attend local conferences.



Check out Shelley's Facebook Fan page





ABOUT THE BOOK

A murder is solved and a quiet Amish community must deal with the repercussions. Amid the surprising revelations, can a newfound love survive?



As the search for Perry Borntrager's killer continues, Jacob Schrock feels like his world is about to crumble. Right before Perry went missing, he and Jacob got into a fistfight. Jacob never told anyone what happened that terrible night. He's good at keeping secrets—including his love for Deborah, Perry's sister. But when Deborah takes a job at his family's store and their friendship blossoms, Jacob senses everything is about to be revealed.



Deborah has been searching for a slice of happiness ever since her brother's body was discovered. When the police start questioning Jacob, Deborah can't believe that the one person she's finally allowed in could be the one responsible for her brother's death. Will she believe what everyone seems to think is the truth . . . or listen to her heart, and hope there is still one more person who is keeping secrets in Crittenden County?



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

My thoughts...

Detective Luke Reynolds is investigating the murder of a young Amish man named Perry. Jacob Shrock fought with Perry the night before he died and is expecting to be under investigation himself soon. He is in love with Perry's sister, Deborah, but hides his feelings. When the detective finally questions Jacob, Deborah is shocked to learn he may have killed her brother.

It doesn't take long for Reynolds to make an arrest which sends shockwaves throughout the community. I didn't see this one coming either, a surprising ending for a well written novel. This is the conclusion of the Secrets of Crittendon County trilogy. I didn't read the first two and it was easy to read this one as a stand alone as the writer brings you up to date.

Definitely an enjoyable read. I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars. I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

The Reunion by Dan Walsh

There are people in this world we pass right by without giving a second thought. They are almost invisible. Yet some of them have amazing stories to tell, if we'd only take the time to listen . . .

Aaron Miller was an old, worn-out Vietnam vet, a handyman in a trailer park. Forty years prior, he saved the lives of three young men in the field only to come home from the war and lose everything. But God is a master at finding and redeeming the lost things of life. Aaron is about to be found. And the one who finds him just might find the love of his life as well.

My thoughts...

This is the second book I've read by Dan Walsh and I intend to read each one he's written. The Reunion is such an wonderfully heartfelt story, I couldn't stop reading and finished in one day.

I felt pride in getting to know Aaron Miller, sadness at how his life turned out after serving in the Vietnam war and receiving the Congressional Medal of Honor. How he had lost his family due to turning to alcohol and drugs after being wounded...and now he was living in a tool shed working as a handyman in a trailer park. Still saving lives as he gets to know the tenants.

Walsh has amazing talent, he's able to draw you in from the first paragraph, allowing you to get to know the characters deeply and wrapping it all up in such a way you feel better from having read the book. I cried tears of joy as Aaron finally gets the recognition and the kind of life he deserves. Definitely one of my favorite books! 5 out of 5 stars!

“Available September 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

When Hope Blossoms by Kim Vogel Sawyer

Amy Knackstedt moves with her children to Weaverly, Kansas, to escape the speculation surrounding her husband's untimely death.

She hopes the new location will provide a fresh start for them all. But her neighbor, Tim Roper, is not pleased to have a Mennonite family living next to his apple orchard. When the children try to befriend him, he resists. Tim left the Mennonite faith years ago and doesn't want any reminders of his former life. Yet Amy and Tim find their paths colliding far more than either could have foreseen. Will this tentative relationship blossom into something more?

My thoughts...

A light read that I enjoyed very much. Amy Knackstedt is a widow with 3 children, she leaves her community to begin a new life in Kansas after the death of her husband which was suspicious, unsure of whether is was an accident or suicide. Widower Tim Roper is a neighbor and wants nothing to do with them Amy and her children.

Amy's irresistable children befriend Tim and his heart softens. Loved the storyline, the characters, and the setting. A wonderful book!

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Enter to win a Kindle Fire with Conquer Your Fears and “Live to Give” Webcast

Thomas Nelson Author and Hoops of Hope founder, Austin Gutwein, to host September 6 online event to focusing on themes his latest release, Live to Give.

On September 6 at 8 PM EDT, Austin Gutwein will be hosting a live Facebook web event to encourage participants to conquer their fears and use their talents to help others. The webcast will center on the themes Gutwein writes about in his latest release “Live to Give: Letting God Turn Your Talents into Miracles” (Thomas Nelson/August, 2012). At the conclusion of the webcast, the winners of a month-long social media fueled “Get and Give” contest will be announced, including the winner of a Kindle Fire and $250 donated to the winner’s charity of choice.

Join Austin on the evening of Thursday, September 6th as he shares about his own experiences and encourages others to conquers their fears and “live to give”. Austin will also be taking audience questions and interacting with participants. PLUS – there will be several “Live to Give” giveaways – books, gift certificates and much more! RSVP today and tell your friends.

Based on the John 6 story of Jesus feeding the 5000, in “Live to Give” Gutwein challenges his readers that regardless of age and talent, God can use them to make a difference. Even though God could take care of everything Himself and doesn’t really need our help, He desperately WANTS us to help Him care for others. Gutwein walks young people through discovering and embracing their unique God-given strengths and abilities, then figuring out how to use those talents to help others. Sometimes doing that takes a leap of faith on our part, and often becoming fearless in the process.

More about Austin: At eighteen years old, Gutwein speaks with wisdom and has the experience to reinforce his message. When Austin was just nine years old, he watched a video that showed children in Africa who had lost their parents to AIDS. Gutwein realized these kids weren’t any different from him—except they were suffering. Feeling called to help, he took his love of basketball and decided to shoot free throws to raise money for orphans in Zambia. On World AIDS Day in 2004, he shot 2,057 free throws to represent the 2,057 kids who would be orphaned during his day at school. Through sponsorship from parents and friends, Gutwein raised over $3,000 that day to give hope to eight orphans in Zambia.

Over the past eight years, Gutwein’s efforts have created Hoops of Hope, the largest free throw marathon in the world. With an estimated 40,000 people in more than 25 countries participating, Hoops of Hope has raised more than $2.5 million to build schools, medical clinics, dormitories for orphanages, and the only computer lab in Zambia.

Enter to win a Kindle Fire and have $250 donated to your favorite charity. Click for the banner for details and entry or visit http://litfusegroup.com/blogtours/13528976/livetogive.



Learn more about Austin and Hoops of Hope at www.AustinGutwein.com and www.HoopsOfHope.org.

Doing the happy dance!!

Look what I got in the mail today! I won this box of books from Marie at WV Stitcher. Thanks Marie!! Check out her blog here.

Reading Clean Giveaway Hop!

Welcome to the Reading Clean Giveaway Hop!

This hop is hosted by I Am a Reader, Not a Writer, Librarian's Book Reviews and Clean Teen Fiction

Each participating blog has their own entry rules and geographic limits, so be sure to read the rules for each one. This giveaway is open internationaly. This hop starts September 6 and runs through September 12 at midnight.

I'm giving away a $10 Amazon egift card.

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Check out the other blogs in the hop!

Full Disclosure by Dee Henderson

Ann Silver is a cop’s cop. As the Midwest Homicide Investigator, she is called in to help on the worst of the cases, looking for answers to murder. Hers is one of the most trusted investigative positions in the Midwest.

Paul Falcon is the FBI’s top murder cop. If the victim carried a federal badge or had a security clearance, odds are good he sees the case file or his guys work the murder.

Their lives intersect when Ann arrives to pass a case off her desk and onto his. A car wreck and a suspicious death offer a lead on a hired shooter he is tracking. Paul isn’t expecting to meet someone, the kind that goes on the personal side of the ledger, but Ann Silver has his attention.

The better he gets to know her, the more he realizes her job barely scratches the surface of who she is. She knows spies and soldiers and U.S. Marshals, and has written books about them. She is friends with the former Vice President. People with good reason to be cautious about who they let into their lives deeply trust her. Paul wonders just what secrets Ann is keeping, until she shows him the John Doe Killer case file, and he starts to realize just who this lady he is falling in love with really is . . .

My thoughts...

Dee Henderson is back with another great suspense novel, it's been 5 years since her last book. She has brought back beloved characters from previous books which is nice. I loved her O'Malley series and though I didn't enjoy this book as much it is still a good read.

Paul is working a serial killer case and is amazed at the info Ann gives him. Who is this woman that has a former VP and military officials as friends? As the answers are about to be exposed Ann wonders if Paul will be able to protect her.

Action packed, good characters, romance, and an electrifying conclusion. I give it 4 out of 5 stars.

I won this book through LibraryThing, my opinions are my own.

All Things New by Lynn Austin

In the aftermath of the Civil War, Josephine Weatherly and her mother, Eugenia, struggle to pick up the pieces of their lives when they return to their Virginia plantation. But the bitter realities of life after the war cannot be denied: their home and land are but shells of their previous grandeur; death has claimed her father and brother; and her remaining brother, Daniel, has returned home bitter and broken. The privileged childhood Josephine enjoyed now seems like a long-ago dream. And the God who failed to answer any of her prayers during the war is lost to her as well.

Josephine soon realizes that life is now a matter of daily survival--and recognizes that Lizzie, as one of the few remaining servants, is the one she must rely on to teach her all she needs to know. Josephine's mother, too, vows to rebuild White Oak... but a bitter hatred fuels her.

With skill and emotion, Lynn Austin brings to life the difficult years of the Reconstruction era by interweaving the stories of three women--daughter, mother, and freed slave--in a riveting tale.

My thoughts...

Josephine and her mother, Eugenia Weatherly, are in the city of Richmond at the home of Eugenia's sister. The Civil War rages on, Richmond is burning, and the Weatherly's fear for their lives. When word finally reaches them that the war is over they return to their plantation, the house in is a terrible state, all but a very few of their slaves have left. Josephine's father and brother were killed in the war and her remaining brother, Daniel, has returned home full of rage and bitterness.

Lizzie and her husband James remain at the plantation as servants and are given a share of the land to crop. Eugenia still treats them as slaves. Daniel's goal is to kill as many negroes as he and his group can. Josephine meets a Yankee who helps her to see slavery for what it is. The two fall in love but cannot reveal this for fear of losing his life.

The things Lizzie and Josephine go through are heartbreaking. It takes time for Josephine to gain the trust of Lizzie and James and even longer for Eugenia to change. Austin has written another wonderful book that brings tears and smiles at the same time. Loved this book! It gets 5 out of 5 stars!

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Last Chance Christmas

Dear Reader,
I've been wishing for a miracle for my oldest boy, Stone, and this Christmas my prayers might just be answered!

Her name is Lark, and she's here in Last Chance, looking into her father's past-and stirring up a whole mess of trouble without meaning to. As the chief of police, Stone sure has his hands full trying to keep up with her. Ever since his wife died, Stone's put everything into raising his daughters and dodging the Christ Church Ladies' Auxiliary matchmakers. And it's clear Lark has been through some trouble and could use a place to finally call home. I only hope Stone can let go of the past soon enough to keep her . . .

Goodness, I need to stop talking and finish up Jane's highlights so we can make the town tree-lighting. You come back by because the Cut 'n' Curl's got hot rollers, free coffee, fresh-baked Christmas cookies-and the best gossip in town.

See you real soon,
Ruby Rhodes


My thoughts...

Stone is the Chief of Police in a small town in South Carolina. A charming place where you can hear all the latest gossip at the beauty parlor. A church or two on every block. Stone has two daughters, his mother Ruby, is determined to find him a wife.

Lark is in town to fulfill her father's last wish, to spread his ashes in the place he loved...Last Chance, South Carolina. When the two meet Stone realizes she is hurting deeply and needs a place to call home.

This is not only a romance but a look into the 1960's civil rights battle. An interesting read with a disappointing ending. I give it 4 out of 5 stars.

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

A Mother's Promise by Anna Schmidt

Recently widowed Rachel Kaufman is seeking a fresh start for herself and her son, Justin. Will a move to Florida, her new job as hospital chaplain, and Pinecraft’s Mennonite community be the balm to soothe her grieving soul?

Teenager Justin is struggling to fit in. Will a newfound sense of power as a bully be his only recourse?

Dr. Ben Booker lost his faith when his niece Sally became ill. Will his attraction to Rachel restore him mentally and spiritually? When gossip about Rachel jeopardizes her career and her second chance at love, how will God work to turn a potential disaster into paradise?

My thoughts...

Rachel Kauffman lost her husband when a drunk driver hit the tractor he was driving. She witnessed it. Her brother in law and his family move into her house and Rachel and Justin must endure his wrath. He belittles both and works Justin so hard. When her college friend, Hester, sends a letter inviting them to come to Florida Rachel decides to go.


I liked the main characters in this novel, all were very friendly and helpful to Rachel when she arrives in Fl. The brother in law made me angry at the abusive way he treated her and Justin.I was glad she left his home. Upon arriving to their new home Justin enters public school and tries his best to hide the fact that he is Mennonite. He makes friends with the wrong crowd and things get rough when his friend sees Rachel at the school in her plain clothes.

Dr. Booker is wonderful, you can't help but fall in love with him. He is instantly attracted to Rachel and she to him but she knows this would never work because they are of different faiths.

Schmidt has written a delightful book, full of real life issues. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

{Glass Road Blog Tour} Mother of Pearl by Kellie Coates Gilbert

Barrie Graeber has two great kids, a loving husband, and a respected job as the high school counselor in her close-knit community. Without warning, everything unravels when her teenage daughter, Pearl, is betrayed by friends and lashes out.

Nothing prepares this mother for the helplessness that follows when her attempts to steer her daughter back on course fail and Pearl shuts her out . . . or when she discovers the unthinkable about her nemesis, the football coach.

Emotionally riveting and profoundly moving, MOTHER OF PEARL brings us into the heart of a mother bound by an incredible burden, who ultimately finds she must recognize her own vulnerability and learn to trust in something much bigger.

My thoughts...

There's nothing like a mother's love and Kellie has given us a peak into the grief a mother suffers in losing a child. This one was hard to read, especially the parts where the parents, Barrie and Steve, are at the mortuary and graveside of their daughter, Pearl. After the service when the family is trying to go on with their lives is just heartbreaking.


Barrie almost sinks to depths where she couldn't come back. Steve buries himself in work and their son feels guilt because he doesn't think his sister knew he loved her. Then they learn something that will change their lives as well as everyone in the community. I don't know if I could've done what Barrie did in putting her daughter's mistakes as well as the entire family's out there for the world to see.

A very well written debut novel, I look forward to more from this author. 5 out of 5 stars!

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.