"A Simple Christmas Wish" Review

"A Simple Christmas Wish"
by Melody Carlson

Publisher: Revell

Release Date: Sep 15, 2013
Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4 of 5 Stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

Rachel Milligan is caring for her seven-year-old niece, Holly, at her home in Chicago when she receives devastating news: Holly's parents have been killed in a plane crash. Because Rachel is Holly's only known relative, she assumes that she will be her beloved niece's guardian. However, custody is awarded to Lydia, a distant aunt who happens to be Amish. Just a week before Christmas, Rachel takes Holly to the Amish community in the hopes of persuading Aunt Lydia to relinquish custody. Instead, Lydia sets out to teach Holly to live according to the Amish way. As family secrets emerge and old wounds are healed, Rachel realizes that she will do whatever it takes to ensure that Holly has the loving family she needs.
Combining an Amish family saga with the anticipation of Christmas cheer and the promise of a budding romance, this newest Christmas story from beloved author Melody Carlson is sure to please.

My Review:

I really enjoyed the Christmas story, even though I didn't really know what I was getting into when I started to read it! I didn't know that the book would start with a tragedy, or I might have steered clear. Rachel's brother and sister and law were killed in a plane crash, leaving Rachel's niece Holly as her only family. It was a little strange to me, because it didn't seem like Rachel was really that sad about the plane crash. But I suppose she was just staying strong for Holly. But soon, Rachel learns that she must send Holly away to live with another aunt who is Amish. How will she stay strong when she is losing all she has left of her family? And what is right for Holly?

This story is an interesting twist on the Amish tale we are used to reading, since we see things from the oustsiders' points of view. Holly's other aunt, really wasn't very nice to Rachel at all, and Holly was supposed to instantly be used to this completely different way of life. I honestly felt scolded right along with Rachel when Holly's Amish grandmother told her how selfish Rachel was being for wanting to keep custody of Holly. I had been pulling for Rachel to retain custody for the whole book, was I selfish, too? You'll have to read the book to see what happens, but after that, I sure didn't know what to expect or where it was going.

The romance between Rachel and Holly's uncle, who had his own views about the Amish even though he was born in the community, was quite cute. He was very likable right from the start, and even though the romance certainly took a backseat to the family drama, it was a lot of fun to see the little sparks fly between the couple.


Main Characters: 4/5
Supporting Characters: 4/5
Setting: 4/5
Romance: 4/5
Uniqueness: 4/5
Cover: 5/5
Writing: 4/5

Bottom Line: This is a nice, short holiday story, that mixes some heavy subjects with uplifiting Christmas cheer.

“Available November 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

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

"Christmas at Harmony Hill" Review

"Christmas at Harmony Hill: A Shaker Story"
by Ann H. Gabhart

Publisher: Revell

Release Date: Sep 15, 2013
Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4.5 of 5 Stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

It is 1864 and the nation is still torn apart by civil war when Heather Worth discovers she is with child. She has been working as a laundress with her husband's army unit, but when the army gets orders to march south to Tennessee, Gideon insists Heather go home to have their child under safer conditions. Heather agrees, but returns home to another kind of devastation--deaths in the family and a father who refuses to forgive her for marrying a Yankee. With nowhere else to turn, Heather seeks refuge at the Shaker village of Harmony Hill, where her great aunt Sophrena lives. There, after many peaceful years at Harmony Hill, Sophrena is having doubts about her Shaker path. Both women are in need of love and forgiveness--whether given or received. With Christmas coming, can the miracle of new life fill their hearts with unexpected joy?
Ann H. Gabhart's many fans will be thrilled to return to Harmony Hill at Christmastime for this stirring story of healing and hope.

My Review:

This book is a difficult one to review. It was actually a difficult one to read, so much turmoil happens in the book, and there is an overall tone of melancholy. I'm also not sure how I feel about the way that the Shaker people are portrayed in the book. However, I found myself telling my fiance the entire plot of the book, so I think I must have enjoyed it more than I realized. The plot itself was quite exciting, and I found myself intrigued at the way that all of the pieces to the puzzle fit together by the end.

I have visited the Shaker Village at Pleasant Hill, which inspired the somewhat fictional village of "Harmony Hill" in the book. I love this place, and if you ever get the chance to visit there, please do!! It was lovely to imagine the story happening in this setting, I could totally visualize it in my head. However, it was tough for me to think about these stern and rigid people living in the beautiful and peaceful village that exists today. There was one female elder that just really rubbed me the wrong way. She was so mean to Heather, who just needed help. I would have liked for more of the Shakers to have been portrayed as kind people, such as the doctor, even if they didn't believe it the same things we believe in. I'm sure the author has done her research on the way the Shakers really were, but I just have preconceived, romanticized notions of how I would like them to have been.

The end portion of the book really had me turning the pages as fast I could. That was when everything started to come together and all of the characters really learned about what it means to forgive.


Main Characters: 5/5
Supporting Characters: 3/5
Setting: 5/5
Romance: 4/5
Uniqueness: 4/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 5/5

Bottom Line: The book isn't the typical holiday story, but the overall message of forgiveness is one we can learn from.

“Available November 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

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

Spotlight: "When Love Calls"

"When Love Calls"
by Lorna Seilstad
Publisher: Revell
Source: received from publisher
Release Date: May 1, 2013

The following description is from goodreads.com:

Hannah Gregory is good at many things, but that list doesn’t include following rules. So when she is forced to apply for a job as a telephone switchboard operator to support her two sisters, she knows it won’t be easy. “Hello Girls” must conduct themselves according to strict-and often bewildering-rules. No talking to the other girls. No chatting with callers. No blowing your nose without first raising your hand. And absolutely no consorting with gentlemen while in training.
Meanwhile, young lawyer Lincoln Cole finds himself in the unfortunate position of having to enforce the bank’s eviction of the three Gregory girls from their parents’ home. He tries to soften the blow by supporting them in small ways as they settle into another home. But fiery Hannah refuses his overtures and insists on paying back every cent of his charity.
When one of Hannah’s friends finds himself on the wrong side of a jail cell, Hannah is forced to look to Lincoln for help. Will it be her chance to return to her dreams of studying law? And could she be falling in love?

Author Bio (from the publicist)

A history buff, antique collector, and freelance graphic designer, Lorna Seilstad is the author of Making Waves, A Great Catch, and The Ride of Her Life. A former high school English and journalism teacher, she has won several online writing contests and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. Lorna lives in Council Bluffs, Iowa, with her husband. Find out more at www.lornaseilstad.com.

If you think this book sounds great, check out my review of the author's previous book (which I LOVED):

My Review: "The Ride of Her Life" by Lorna Seilstad

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publicist/publisher in exchange for a blog post.

Spotlight: "It Happened at the Fair"

"It Happened at the Fair"
by Deanne Gist

Publisher: Howard Books
Source: received from publisher
Release Date: April 9, 2013

The following description is from goodreads.com:

A transporting historical novel about a promising young inventor, his struggle with loss, and the attractive teacher who changes his life, all set against the razzle-dazzle of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair.

Gambling everything, including the family farm, Cullen McNamara travels to the 1893 Chicago World's Fair with his most recent invention. But the noise in the Fair’s Machinery Palace makes it impossible to communicate with potential buyers. In an act of desperation, he hires Della Wentworth, a teacher of the deaf, to tutor him in the art of lip-reading.


The young teacher is reluctant to participate, and Cullen has trouble keeping his mind on his lessons while intently watching her lips. Like the newly invented Ferris Wheel, he is caught in a whirl between his girl back home, his dreams as an inventor, and his unexpected attraction to his new tutor. Can he keep his feet on the ground, or will he be carried away?

Author Bio (from the publicist)

With over half-a-million sales in trade, Deeanne Gist has rocketed up bestseller lists and garnered rave reviews with her very fun, very original historical and contemporary novels. Add to this three RITA nominations, two consecutive Christy Awards, and a growing loyal fan base, and you’ve got one recipe for success. Deeanne has a background in education and journalism and a degree from Texas A&M. Her credits include People, Parents, and Parenting. She lives in Houston, Texas with her husband of twenty-nine years and has four grown children.

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publicist/publisher in exchange for a blog post.

"Christmas Roses" Review

"Christmas Roses"
by Amanda Cabot

Publisher: Revell
Release Date: Sep 1, 2012
Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4 of 5 Stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

Celia Anderson doesn't need anything for Christmas except a few more boarders, which are hard to come by in this small mining town. She certainly doesn't have a husband on her Christmas wish list. But when a wandering carpenter finds lodging at her boarding house, she admits that she might remarry if she found the right man--the kind of man who would bring her roses for Christmas. It would take a miracle to get roses during a harsh Wyoming winter. But Christmas, after all, is the time for miracles . . .

Amanda Cabot invites readers to cozy up with a romantic, heartwarming tale of the greatest gift of all--love.

My Review:

This is a sweet Christmas novella, I really enjoyed the story. The author's writing really pulls you in to the story, and you get to know the characters even in the short amount of pages. I really like these old fashioned Christmas stories, and this one really fit the niche nicely for me.

I thought Mark was very sweet, he was always so helpful without ever looking for credit. Celia was a different kind of strong. She was so strong in learning to run a boarding house after her husband passed away, and taking care of her baby all by herself. But she was never stubborn and she always asked for help when she needed it.

The secondary characters were great as well, which to me shows what a good writer Cabot is. She made me want to get to know the whole town, and find out everyone's personalities.


Main Characters: 4/5
Supporting Characters: 4/5
Setting: 5/5
Romance: 4/5
Uniqueness: 4/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 5/5

Bottom Line: A sweet Christmas novel with great characters and a lovely romance.

"The Christmas Pony" Review

"The Christmas Pony"
by Melody Carlson

Publisher: Revell
Release Date: Sep 1, 2012
Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4 of 5 Stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

Eight-year-old Lucy Turnbull knew better than to wish for a pony that Christmas in 1937. Her mother had assured her in no uncertain terms that asking for a pony was the same as asking for the moon. Besides, the only extra mouths they needed at their boarding house were the paying kind. But when an interesting pair of strangers comes to town, Lucy starts to believe her Christmas wishes might just come true after all.
The queen of the Christmas novel, Melody Carlson pens another magical tale of expectation and excitement as one little girl dreams big and the impossible becomes possible.

My Review:

I can't resist a book with a horse on the cover, so I couldn't wait to read this! The book is a really sweet Christmas story, told from an eight year old's point of view. She sees the world through such innocent eyes, you can't help but like her story.

The book is a shorter novella, so it can be read without the stress of a 400 page book during the holiday season, which is great. The story was a bit different than I thought it would be. When I read the description, I thought that it might be on the sad side, but it wasn't. Lucy and her mother's boarding house had a really nice feel about it, even as they struggled financially during the Great Depression.

I can see this book being made into a sweet holiday tv movie. I do think that the characters of George, and especially Mama, could be fleshed out a little more. George was just such a sweet heart, but I would have liked to have known more about him. Veronica was the perfect nemesis, and I really appreciated that even though Lucy admired her glamour so much at first, she was smart enough to catch on to her true nature quickly.

Main Characters: 4/5
Supporting Characters: 4/5
Setting: 5/5
Uniqueness: 4/5
Cover: 5/5 (Love it!!)
Writing: 4/5

Bottom Line: A light, sweet holiday read.

"Be Still My Soul" Review

"Be Still My Soul"
by Joanne Bischof

Publisher: Multnomah
Release Date: Oct 2, 2012
Source: sent by publisher
 
My Rating: 3 of 5 Stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

Night’s chill tickled her skin. Lonnie pressed her hands together and glanced up. He was even more handsome up close. Having grown up the shy, awkward daughter of Joel Sawyer, she’d hardly spoken to any boy, let alone the one who had mothers whispering warnings in their daughter’s ears and fathers loading shotguns.
 
Pretty Lonnie Sawyer is shy and innocent, used to fading into the background within her family, and among the creeks and hollows of the Appalachian hills. Though her family is poor and her father abusive, she clings to a quiet faith.  But when handsome ladies’ man and bluegrass musician Gideon O’Riley steals a kiss, that one action seals her fate. 

Her father forces her into a hasty marriage with Gideon—a man she barely knows and does not love. Equally frustrated and confused by his new responsibilities, Gideon yearns for a fresh start, forcing  Lonnie on an arduous journey away from her home in Rocky Knob.

Her distant groom can’t seem to surrender his rage at the injustice of the forced matrimony or give Lonnie any claim in his life.  What will it take for Gideon to give up his past, embrace Lonnie’s God, and discover a hope that can heal their two fractured hearts?

Gideon only ever cared about himself. Now that Lonnie is his wife, will he ever be worthy of her heart?

My Review:

This book was different from any other romance that I have read. The hero, Gideon, was absolutely horrible to Lonnie.  I mean, the things he did to her were so absolutely despicable that I hardly even want to repeat all of them here. He attempted to rape her, which is why they were forced to marry, and he pushed and kicked her in the face (accidental? It's murky), among many other emotionally cold and abusive things. I was really in shock that this was the 'hero' of the story. There were a few things about the way the story was told that made it better, but it was still horrifying for the most part. First of all, the time period of the early 1900s and the setting of a poor community in Appalachia made Lonnie's decisions more clear. She couldn't go back to her family, who had forced her into the marriage. As a woman in that time and place, she literally had no options or anywhere else to go. I hope that readers realize this, and realize that as a woman NOW and in 2012, there are places to go and ways to get away from such a terrible husband and terrible situation. In this day and age, I do not believe that Gideon deserved the second, third, fourth, and fifth chances that he received then.

If it hadn't been for the appearance of Jedidiah and Elsie in the story, I don't think I could have finished the book. However, this beautiful couple came along about 1/3 of the way in, and took a pregnant Lonnie and Gideon into their home and hearts. This started as a way to protect Lonnie from her immature, selfish husband. With Jed and Elsie in her corner, Lonnie was able to stand up to Gideon a lot, and I was very proud of her. She locked him out, stopped speaking to him, and kicked him out. Yay, Lonnie!

The story itself had an elementary quality, everything was written in a super simplified way. Sometimes, scenes were left open-ended. I would turn the page, expecting a scene to continue, only to discover it had ended abruptly. I found myself doing this even the very last page of the book, thinking, "Where is the rest of the ending?" I finished the book because Jed and Elsie made me confident that Lonnie was going to be ok and cared about, and I had to know how Gideon would be able to redeem himself even a fraction.

Main Characters: 3/5
Supporting Characters: 5/5
Setting: 4/5
Romance: I just can't give it a rating
Uniqueness: 4/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 3/5

Bottom Line: This really is an interesting book.  I have never seen something like this done intentionally before. Hopefully readers know the difference between situations in the early 1900's and now, and realize there are options for women in 2012.

"Love's Reckoning" Review

"Love's Reckoning"
by Laura Frantz

Publisher: Revell
Release Date: Sep 1, 2012
Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4.5 of 5 Stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

On a bitter December day in 1785, Silas Ballantyne arrives at the door of master blacksmith Liege Lee in York, Pennsylvania. Just months from becoming a master blacksmith himself, Silas is determined to finish his apprenticeship and move west. But Liege soon discovers that Silas is a prodigious worker and craftsman and endeavors to keep him in Lancaster. Silas becomes interested in both of Liege's daughters, the gentle and faith-filled Eden and the clever and high-spirited Elspeth. When he chooses one, will the other's jealousy destroy their love?
In this sweeping family saga set in western Pennsylvania, one man's choices in love and work, in friends and enemies, set the stage for generations to come. "Love's Reckoning" is the first entry in The Ballantyne Legacy, a rich, multi-layered historical quartet from talented writer Laura Frantz, beginning in the late 1700s and following the Ballantyne family through the end of the Civil War.

My Review:

This was a really exceptional historical inspirational romance. It really goes above and beyond the genre 'guidelines' and will appeal to readers who love history and romance, not just fans of inspirational fiction. The Christian element is there, but it never comes across as preachy. The message is about love and finding a place in the world instead of strict religious viewpoints.

The romance was so addicting. Eden and Silas meeting on the stairs in secret was really fun to read about. Yes it sounds scandalous, but really it wasn't at all, which made it all the more romantic. It really took so long for them to admit their feelings, and their finally coming together was really worth the wait.

Eden's family was so horrible to both Eden and Silas, except for her mother. Eden's sister, Elspeth, was just really the type of character that you love to hate. She was just so spiteful and jealous, you really couldn't put anything past her. Thankfully, Eden had friends in her neighbors, and unexpected strength in Silas.

Main Characters: 5/5
Supporting Characters: 5/5
Setting: 4/5
Romance: 5/5
Uniqueness: 4/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 5/5

Bottom Line:  Fantastic historical romance, I really couldn't ask for anything more.

"Skip Rock Shallows" Review

"Skip Rock Shallows"
by Jan Watson

Publisher: Tyndale
Release Date: May 8, 2012
Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4.5 of 5 Stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

Lilly Gray Corbett has just graduated from medical school and decided to accept an internship in the coal camp of Skip Rock, Kentucky. Her beau, Paul, is doing his residency in Boston and can't understand why Lilly would choose to work in a backwater town. But having grown up in the mountains, Lilly is drawn to the stubborn, superstitious people she encounters in Skip Rock—a town where people live hard and die harder and where women know their place. Lilly soon learns she has a lot to overcome, but after saving the life of a young miner, she begins to earn the residents' trust.

Torn between joining Paul in Boston and her love for the people of Skip Rock, she crosses paths with a handsome miner—one who seems oddly familiar. Her attraction for him grows, even as she wrestles with her feelings and wonders what he's hiding.

My Review:

This was my first book by this author, and while it took awhile to get used to her style, I ended up really enjoying the story. At first, I thought the pace was a bit slow, and the characters and plot a bit too predictable. But soon, the characters and story were fleshed out and I really loved the slow, small town style of the story.

I think the things I enjoyed the most about the book were the setting of Skip Rock, KY, and the full, lively cast of supporting characters. Lilly's assistant, Ned, and her prickly but well-meaning friend, Almina, were two of my favorites. They really kept the story skipping right along. I also liked that the story had a lot of heart, but it wasn't a tear-jerker or depressing.

One drawback was that the romance seemed a little off for me. I really liked the characters together, but I felt like it wasn't really explained enough. I know they had history together, but I would have liked for their romance to be more explained in the here and now instead of both of them clinging to a very brief memory of the other. It seemed like they were more in love with the idealized memory of the other than with the real person.


Main Characters: 4/5
Supporting Characters: 5/5
Setting: 5/5
Romance: 4/5
Uniqueness: 4/5
Cover: 5/5
Writing: 4/5

Bottom Line:  I really enjoyed this gentle, heart-warming novel.

"The Gifted" Review

"The Gifted"
by Ann H. Gabhart

Publisher: Revell
Release Date: July 1, 2012
Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4.5 of 5 Stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

By 1849, Jessamine Brady has been in the Shaker Village for half her life, but in spite of how she loves her sisters there, she struggles to conform to the strict rules. Instead she entertains dreams of the world outside. When Tristan Cooper seems to step out of those dreams to entice her into the forbidden realm beyond the Shaker Village, her life turns upside down. Will Jessamine be able to survive the storms of the world? Or will she retreat back to the peace of Harmony Hill?

The thousands of loyal fans of Gabhart's Shaker novels will love this entrancing story of learning to trust the gifts God gives us and let him guide us through life.

My Review:

I always enjoy Ann H. Gabhart's Shaker novels, and this one is no exception. I may have liked this one even more than the others that I have read previously.

Jessamine was a great heroine, she definitely had her own mind even though she lived in the restricted Shaker community. I think this was very realistic because the Shaker lifestyle did have a lot of positives and benefits, which Jessamine acknowledged and appreciated. The Shakers took her in when she was only 10 and her grandmother passed away. Since then, she always had a great home, a roof over her head, and meals on the table. However, there were many drawbacks and restrictions to their lifestyle which she felt stifled her personal freedom. I think Jessamine's story could be a lot of real-life Shaker's stories.

I feel like the author explained the Shaker beliefs a lot more in this book than in her other novels. I liked reading the sayings and teachings that Jessamine had heard over the years, some good and some not so good. It really enriched the setting and helped me learn more about the Shakers and how they lived.

Main Characters: 5/5
Supporting Characters: 5/5
Setting: 5/5
Romance: 4/5
Uniqueness: 5/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 5/5

Bottom Line:  Another great Shaker novel by this author.

"The Rose of Winslow Street" Review

"The Rose of Winslow Street"
by Elizabeth Camden
 
Publisher: Bethany House
Release Date: Jan 1, 2012

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:  

The last thing Libby Sawyer and her father expected upon their return from their summer home was to find strangers inhabiting a house that had been in their family for decades. Widower Michael Dobrescu brought his family from Romania to the town of Colden, Massachusetts with a singular purpose: to claim the house willed to him long ago. Since neither party has any intention of giving up their claim, a fierce legal battle ensues between the two families.When important documents go missing from the house, Libby suspects Michael is the culprit. Determined to discover the truth behind the stolen papers, Libby investigates, only to find more layers of mystery surrounding Michael and his family. Despite their rivalry, Libby finds herself developing feelings for this man with the mysterious past. As a decision about the house looms in the courts, Libby must weigh the risks of choosing to remain loyal to her family or give her heart to a man whose intentions and affections are less than certain.

My Review:

I loved this book! It was really different from a lot of the inspirational fiction I've read lately, and I think that's why I enjoyed it so much. The storyline was unique from anything I've read and so were the characters. All of the characters drew me in, both the leads and the supporting cast. I really cared about both Libby's and Michael's families.

I loved that Libby loved and cared for Michael's family regardless of their nationality, even when everyone else in the community shunned them. It really showed that she lived out her faith and beliefs instead of just saying she believes something and not backing it up with anything.

The romance between Libby and Michael was really special. They truly had a bond that overcame all of their legal obstacles. Their cultures and personalities made for some clashes, but that just made their romance all the more realistic. They truly had a lot to overcome to be together, but they were both equally up for the challenge, and both willing to compromise.

The mysteries surrounding the house and Michael's half-sister were quite intriguing. I liked that they were family secrets slowly coming to light, not a murder mystery to be solved.


Main Characters: 5/5
Supporting Characters: 5/5
Setting: 4/5
Romance: 4/5
Uniqueness: 5/5
Cover: 5/5
Writing: 5/5


Bottom Line: I loved this tale of family bonds and new love overcoming obstacles. It's a new and different read and really stands out from the crowd.
 

"The Ride of Her Life" Review

"The Ride of Her Life"
by Lorna Seilstad

Publisher: Revell
Release Date: May 1, 2012

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:  

The only man pragmatic Lilly Hart needs in her life is a six year old. Widowed two years ago, Lilly leaves the shelter of her intrusive in-laws' home to stand on her own and provide for her young son by working for the summer as a cook at Lake Manawa. However, her in-laws find that life utterly unsuitable for their grandson, and when a row ensues, a handsome stranger--who designs roller coasters, of all things--intercedes on her behalf. Still, Lilly is not about to get involved with any man, especially this cocky (though charismatic) gentleman. Little does she know she is about to begin the ride of her life.Filled with delightful characters and the romance of summer, The Ride of Her Life is another supremely entertaining story from the witty Lorna Seilstad. Readers will laugh out loud and sigh contentedly as they spend the summer of 1906 in Lake Manawa.

My Review:

This was the first book I've read by this author, but now I've got to go back and read the first two books in this series ASAP! The book had everything that I'm looking for in a historical romance, great characters, a fun and unique setting, and so much romance!

The story had a lot of romance, which is something you really don't see that often in historical romances. It's almost like the romances are thrown in at the last minute sometimes. But this story really is a romance, the bulk of the tale focuses on Lilly and Nick. They spend so much time together getting to know each other, I loved all of their scenes together. I really did understand why Lilly had such a hard time handling a new romance since her husband had passed away, on the other hand it was so frustrating watching her push away someone as great as Nick when he wanted to help her so much.

The supporting characters in the book were fantastic as well. It was fun to see the pitfalls that Lilly and her kitchen assistant at work would fall into, since the poor assistant was just so accident prone. Lilly's son, Levi, is adorable and his scenes never feel forced or used just to be cute. He had a lot of funny lines, but they all seemed very realistic. Even the somewhat bad characters (no spoilers, you'll find out!) were so well written, representing both the bad and good sides of their characters.

The main reason I wanted to read this book was because of the roller coaster and the theme park setting, and it did not disappoint. It was such an interesting and unique setting, and the author really makes the reader feel like she/he is there. I admit that in some ways the cover does look a little silly (even though I love it at the same time), so I was pleasantly surprised that the book isn't silly at all. It is a light read for the most part, but there is a lot of heart. All in all it's a perfect heartwarming, romantic summer read.

Main Characters: 5/5
Supporting Characters: 5/5
Setting: 5/5
Romance: 5/5
Uniqueness: 5/5
Cover: 5/5
Writing: 5/5


Bottom Line: I can't wait to read the first two books in this series. My only complaint is that this series is over now!

 

"A Love Forbidden" Review

"A Love Forbidden"
by Kathleen Morgan

Publisher: Revell
Release Date: May 1, 2012

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:  

Moved by the desire for adventure and a yearning to help the Ute Indians, twenty-year-old Shiloh Wainright impulsively accepts a teaching position at the White River Indian Agency in northwestern Colorado. The new job, however, isn't what she imagined it would be, and Shiloh soon finds herself caught in the cross fire between the Utes, their unyielding Indian Agent, and the unrealistic demands of the US government. Her unexpected encounter with Jesse Blackwater, an embittered half-breed Ute and childhood friend, only complicates matters as they battle their growing feelings for each other amidst the spiraling tensions threatening to explode into a catastrophic Indian uprising.
Set amongst the wilds of the Colorado Rockies in 1879, this is a tale of a forbidden love and a faith tested in the cauldron of intolerance and the harsh realities of life on the untamed frontier. Bestselling author Kathleen Morgan deftly explores themes of mercy, fidelity to one's beliefs despite what others think or do, and compassion for those different from oneself as she plumbs the depths of the human heart and the healing power of God's love.

My Review:

I was really drawn in by the summary of this one, I really like reading this type of story in this time period and setting. However, the story seemed a little slow for me. I really wanted to like it, but I kept finding myself trudging through lots of political facts when i wanted to read about the feelings of the characters. The book is based on real events, so I can see how the author got caught up in explaining all the facts of the situations. However, I would have preferred those events to have been the backdrop for the love story instead of the other way around.

Even though I didn't really think there was enough of it, I thought that the romance was extremely well done. I really felt the chemistry between Jesse and Shiloh. I loved that they had a history together, and I think that really strengthened their bond. Their scenes together were so believable and it was easy to be caught up in their love story. Unfortunately, the rest of the book moved rather slowly for my tastes.

Wow, was Jesse stubborn! There was one part of the book where another character advises Shiloh that if Jesse didn't fight for her then that tells her that he's not that interested. And honestly, there were only one or two times where I felt like he did stand up and fight for her, and all the other times he ran fast in the other direction. He asked Shiloh to give up a lot and never really showed her how much he wanted her. Interesting things to ponder in my opinion.

I liked seeing Shiloh show real emotion about her sister, Jordan, who had done some very bad things. A lot of times in inspirational fiction, the characters aren't shown to have such real feelings of resentment and anger. It was nice to see her have real feelings instead of glossed-over and goody-goody feelings. It was more real and meaningful when she was able to come to terms with her sister and their past.



Main Characters: 4/5
Supporting Characters: 3/5
Setting: 4/5
Romance: 4/5
Uniqueness: 3/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 4/5


Bottom Line: I thought that I would enjoy this book more, since I really like reading about the setting and era. However, I did have fun seeing the sparks fly between the two leads.
 

"The Pursuit of Lucy Banning" Review

"The Pursuit of Lucy Banning"
by Olivia Newport

Publisher: Revell
Release Date: May 1, 2012

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:  

Lucy Banning may live on the exclusive Prairie Avenue among Chicago's rich and famous, but her heart lies elsewhere. Expected to marry an up-and-coming banker from a respected family, Lucy fears she will be forced to abandon her charity work--and the classes she is secretly taking at the newly opened University of Chicago. When she meets an unconventional young architect who is working on plans for the upcoming 1893 World's Fair, Lucy imagines a life lived on her own terms. Can she break away from her family's expectations? And will she ever be loved for who she truly is?

Readers will love being swept away into a world of mansions, secrets, and romance as they follow Lucy through the streets of the Windy City during one of the most exciting times in the city's history. From opulent upper-class homes to the well-worn rooms of an orphanage, Olivia Newport breathes life and romance into the pages of history--and everyone is invited.

My Review:

I like the way the cover shows a beautiful girl in an exquisite dress in the midst of the dark dirty streets of Chicago. It really sums up the story in a lot of ways. Lucy is raised in a very upscale household and her parents hold her to a lot of the standards of their peers. But Lucy puts herself out there in the midst of the other side of life in Chicago, she volunteers at an orphanage, she goes to college, and she befriends a maid in her household.

The story is really about both Lucy and the maid, Charlotte. Lucy has always been helping the rest of the city, but when Charlotte arrives with a secret in tow, Lucy realizes that she needs to also help those right under her own roof. I think that really speaks to a lot of readers who are trying to 'save the world' but we really need to look right under our own noses and help people close to us. I would have liked to have known just a little more about Charlotte, especially her back story, but I really enjoyed reading about the lifestyle of those other than the upper class.

How sweet was Will!? I just loved how he was a man of actions not just words. He didn't have to tell Lucy what a great guy he was, he showed her. He didn't even tell her he was going to help out with the orphans or all he did for them, she saw him doing it. Once again, I would have loved to have known more about Will and his story leading up to meeting Lucy's brother, but I still enjoyed what I did know about him. It seemed like there was a lot of set-up about the supporting characters, but then we didn't ever really find out their biggest secrets.


Main Characters: 4/5
Supporting Characters: 4/5
Setting: 4/5
Romance: 4/5
Uniqueness: 4/5
Cover: 5/5 (even my boyfriend commented on how awesome this cover is)
Writing: 4/5


Bottom Line: A wonderful addition to anyone's inspirational fiction library. I was so drawn in by the diverse characters that I wanted to know even more about their stories.
 

"Sixty Acres and a Bride" Review

"Sixty Acres and a Bride"
by Regina Jennings

Publisher: Bethany House
Release Date: Feb 1, 2012

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:  

With nothing to their names, young widow Rosa Garner and her mother-in-law return to Texas and the family ranch. Only now the county is demanding back taxes and the women have only three months to pay. Though facing eviction, Rosa can't keep herself from falling in love with the countryside and the wonderful extended family who want only her best. Learning the American customs is not easy, however, and this beautiful young widow can't help but catch wandering eyes. Where some offer help with dangerous strings attached, only one man seems honorable. But when Weston Garner, still grieving his own lost love, is unprepared to give his heart, to what lengths will Rosa go to save her future?

My Review:

I wanted to like this book because I had heard amazing things about it, but it seemed slow to me, and I felt like I had read this style of story many times before. I didn't feel like there was much romance between the two leads, I felt like it was more about both Rosa and Weston overcoming the aftermath their disastrous first marriages.

I thought there might be more about Rosa's Mexican heritage, but I felt like most of the book concentrated on the people of her new town trying to stomp out any reminders of her heritage, especially in the way she dressed and acted. I also didn't like the way the picture was painted that because she was from Mexico, she was the town harlot. This is just something that rubbed me the wrong way personally, I know that other readers didn't get this message from the book at all.

The two leads were lovely characters, I just felt like the romance between them wasn't developed enough. It didn't seem like enough was added to the typical historical story of life in a western town.


Main Characters: 4/5
Supporting Characters: 3/5
Setting: 3/5
Romance: 3/5
Uniqueness: 3/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 4/5


Bottom Line: Overall, a nice story, but didn't have the extra oomph I was looking for.
 

"Hazel Creek" Review

"Hazel Creek"
by Walt Larimore

Publisher: Howard Books
Release Date: March 13, 2012
Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:  

In the Hazel Creek Valley of the Great Smoky Mountains, Nathan and Callie Randolph, with their five unique daughters, wrestle to maintain their farm, forests, family, and faith against an unforgiving wilderness. An evil lumber company manager is seeking by every means possible to pilfer their land and clear-cut their virgin forest. A cast of colorful characters, including a menacing stranger, gypsy siblings, a granny midwife, and a world-famous writer—even a flesh-and-blood Haint—collide in a gripping struggle of good and evil amid eruptions of violence and tragedy. Our heroine, fifteen-year-old Abbie Randolph, has to help save her family’s farm and raise her sisters while preserving her faith. This important story, based on almost ten years of research and four years of living in the area, captures the speech, ways, and beliefs of these unique pioneers at a crucial and irreversible turning point in this Smoky Mountains community of the Southern Appalachians. With the march of the industrial age, especially commercial lumbering, the traditional life and ways of our southern highlanders in general, and the Randolphs in particular, were about to change forever.

My Review:

The main reason that I wanted to read this book was the setting, the 1920s Smoky Mountains. I'd say that in this facet, the book didn't disappoint. I did enjoy the setting, but the story wasn't really a hit for me. There were some extremely sad aspects that just weren't for me, personally.

The heroine is very young, which reads a little differently than what I was expecting. She's young and she acts young. In a way, it's sweet, but in other ways it's a little slow. I really liked her relationship with her family, especially her father. However, on the flip side, that made the tragedy so very sad.

There was quite a cast of supporting players (the "Haint" was especially fun), and the pace was slow and steady. Both of these are things that I liked a lot about the book. It was just the sad overtones that made in into a less enjoyable read for me. If you love a tearjerker, you may like this one a lot!

Main Characters: 4/5
Supporting Characters: 4/5
Setting: 4/5
Romance: 3/5
Uniqueness: 3/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 4/5


Bottom Line: A tearjerker with a great setting and characters, just a bit too melancholy for me.
 

"Words Spoken True" Review

"Words Spoken True"
by Ann H. Gabhart

Publisher: Revell
Release Date: Feb 1, 2012
Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:  

Adriane Darcy was practically raised in her father's newspaper offices. She can't imagine life without the clatter of the press and the push to be first to write the news that matters. Their Tribune is the leading paper in Louisville in 1855. Then Blake Garrett, a brash young editor from the North with a controversial new style of reporting, takes over failing competitor the Herald, and the battle for readers gets fierce.
When Adriane and Blake meet at a benefit tea, their surprising mutual attraction is hard to ignore. Still, Blake is the enemy, and Adriane is engaged to the son of a powerful businessman who holds the keys to the Tribune's future. Blake will stop at almost nothing to get the story—and the girl. Can he do both before it's too late?
Set against the volatile backdrop of political and civil unrest in 1850s Louisville, this exciting story of love and loyalty will hold readers in its grip until the very last page. Bestselling author Ann H. Gabhart once again delivers an enthralling and enduring tale for her loyal and ever-expanding fan base.

My Review:

I really enjoyed this author's books set in the fictional Shaker village, so I was excited to read this book set in 1800's Louisville. However, this book just didn't have enough to differentiate it from the crowd of Christian historical fiction for me. It was a solid historical tale, and I appreciated the subtle Christian message that was never overbearing. It just didn't have the oomph that I expected.

The historical setting and newspaper business definitely takes over more of the story than the romance. I enjoyed the romance, but it seemed like a backburner plot. Blake seemed like a really stand up kind of guy, so I would have liked to have known more about him, maybe then he wouldn't have seemed so cookie cutter to me.


Main Characters: 4/5
Supporting Characters: 4/5
Setting: 4/5
Romance: 4/5
Uniqueness: 4/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 4/5


Bottom Line: A solid historical, but I would recommend this one to fans of rich historical details and setting as opposed to historical romance.
  

Check out a great contest for Words Spoken True on Ann H. Gabhart's site! 

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

"Valley of Dreams" Review

"Valley of Dreams"
by Lauraine Snelling

Publisher: Bethany House
Release Date: Nov 1, 2011 
Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:  

Addy Lockwood's mother died when she was little, so Addy traveled with her father's Wild West Show and became an amazingly skillful trick rider, likened by some to the famous Annie Oakley. When her father died, she continued to work with the show, having nowhere else to go.
Now Addy has discovered that "Uncle" Jason, the show's manager, has driven the show into debt, and he's absconded with what little money was left. Devastated, Addy decides to try to find the hidden valley where here father had dreamed of putting down roots. She has only one clue. She needs to find three huge stones that look like fingers raised in a giant hand. With Chief, a Sioux Indian who's been with the show for twenty years, and Micah, the head wrangler, she leaves both the show and a bundle of heartache behind and begins a wild and daring adventure.

My Review:

I am a huge fan of this author, and when I found out she was writing about a Wild West show, I knew I had to read it! It wasn't as much about the show itself, but more about the core characters leaving the show to find the Valley of Dreams. But still, with the heroine and her sharpshooting skills, her gorgeous, attention getting pony, and even a buffalo too old to perform anymore, there were enough references to the show to satisfy me.

The only drawback to the book for me was that it didn't feel complete. It felt like the first book in a series, but not one that could really be read on its own. It was like act one and two of a play, and we were cut off right before there was any real conflict.

I loved the characters, and enjoy reading stories about journeys just as much as the destination, so I did really like the book. I just would have liked for there to be just a few more chapters devoted to an ending so I would feel like there was more closure.


Main Characters: 4/5
Supporting Characters: 4/5
Setting: 4/5
Romance: n/a
Uniqueness: 4/5
Cover: 5/5
Writing: 5/5


Bottom Line: The first book in a new series by a fantastic author, I just wanted the end to sum up a little more of the issues.

"Where Wildflowers Bloom" Review

"Where Wildflowers Bloom"
by Ann Shorey

Publisher: Revell
Release Date: Dec 1, 2011
Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:  

The War Between the States stole a father and brother from Faith Lindberg-- as well as Royal Baxter, the man she wanted to marry. With only her grandfather left, she dreams of leaving Noble Springs, Missouri, and traveling west to the Oregon Territory to start a new life, away from the memories that haunt her. But first she must convince her grandfather to sell the family's mercantile and leave a town their family has called home for generations.When Royal Baxter suddenly returns to town, Faith allows herself to hope that her dreams might come true. Does he truly love her? Or could another man claim her heart? Will she find that following her dreams may not mean leaving home after all?
The characters in Where Wildflowers Bloom jump off the page and into the reader's heart. Author Ann Shorey infuses her characters with the virtues and quirks that bring them fully alive as they search for contentment and love.

My Review:

This was my first book by this author, and it definitely won't be my last! I loved this story, it's exactly what I'm looking for in historical fiction. The story was about the characters first and foremost. It dealt with each character's personal struggles and how they leaned on each other to make it through.

I loved all the characters. Even though Faith was sometimes a bit immature, it fit with her character and she grew a lot. Curt was so sweet and the author explored his history with the war in a very interesting way. Curt's supportive relationship with his sister Rosemary was great to read about. It's nice to see families working together. I loved Faith's grandpa, he had such great advice!


Main Characters: 5/5
Supporting Characters: 5/5
Setting: 5/5
Romance: 5/5
Uniqueness: 5/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 5/5


Bottom Line: A fantastic story about characters reshaping the country after the Civil War as well as themselves.

"Available December 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group"

Ann Shorey and Revell Books' Mercantile Memories Giveaway!

Stop by http://www.annshorey.com/contest.html for more Giveaway Details!

In Where Wildflowers Bloom, Book 1 in author Ann Shorey’s brand new Sisters at Heart series, Faith Lindberg wants nothing more than to escape her small Missouri town, and the graveyard of painful memories left by the Civil War. She plans to sell her grandfather’s mercantile, and join a wagon train bound for Oregon. But her grandfather, and a handsome stable man have other plans!

To celebrate the story, author Ann Shorey and Revell Books are proud to announce the MERCANTILE MEMORIES giveaway, featuring three incredible prizes.

GRAND PRIZE:

Our Grand Prize winner will receive an heirloom chess set, handmade from 1830s chestnut & cherry wood, just like the one Judge Lindberg and Curt use in their chess battles.

SECOND PRIZE:

Our Second Prize winner will receive a deluxe, Missouri-shaped box of mercantile goods from the Missouri Mercantile company. The box features an assortment of items just like those stocked by Faith in Lindberg’s Mercantile.

THIRD PRIZE:

Our Third Prize winner will receive a Memoirs Gift Set. Write your memoirs just like Judge Lindberg does in the story! The set includes the bestselling Writing the Memoir book, and a $30 gift card to Blurb, to create and print your story.

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"First Date" Review

"First Date"
by Krista McGee


Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Release Date: Jan 10, 2012
Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:  

The orphaned daughter of missionaries, Addy is quite content to stay in the shadows and never draw attention to herself. But when she's selected for a reality TV show to try to become the President son's prom date-a show she didn't audition for-she's suddenly in America's spotlight.
The lights, the make-up, the competitions, and the blogs discussing every move she makes all make Addy incredibly uncomfortable. But through her time at The Mansion, Addy comes to realize that first impressions aren't always right, that hiding out may not be what God had planned for her life, and that her faith should affect everything she does. It may just be that her selection wasn't random at all and that she's on this show "for such a time as this."

My Review:

I had high hopes for this cute cover, and thought it would be a light, fun read. But it wasn't as relaxing as I had hoped. The message in this book was a bit too heavy handed for my tastes. The story sounded like it had potential, but I couldn't get into it, and it seemed over the top for me.

Addy's best friend on the reality show, Kara, was probably my favorite character. She was spunky and was a lot of fun to read about. It intrigues me that the author's next book features Kara as the main character.

It was fun to read about the world of 'scripted reality' tv, which we all know isn't so much about reality. But sometimes it just went way over the top for me. Hank, for one, was just so mean!


Main Characters: 3/5
Supporting Characters: 3/5
Setting: 4/5
Romance: 2/5
Uniqueness: 3/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 4/5


Bottom Line: This one was a little over the top for me. While there are some great nuggets of wisdom here, I'd recommend it to those who want a very heavy Christian message in their reads.