Thursday, July 30, 2020

The Sea Before Us by Sarah Sundin Sunrise at Normandy Series

I have to admit, I read book 2 first.  Regardless, I really enjoyed this book.  I loved the Christian undertones and that is definitely something I like in my reading material.  The characters, although with human flaws, find a way to work through their personal issues and pasts.  It's a very good book and I will be reading more from this author.  She's a great writer!

I enjoyed the historical time period, bringing you back in time to a difficult time when there were many struggles to survive.  I felt as though I was being transported to a time my mother and father experienced.  I will be watching for more books from this author!  I am really enjoying her writing!

Monday, July 27, 2020

Morning Star by Charlotte Hubbard

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this latest book by Charlotte Hubbard.  It was new and refreshing and brought out some real things to think about as we view the Amish religion, the Ordnung and shunning.

Regina and her friends come up with a great idea as to how to rejuvenate an old barn and bring new business life to their home town of Morning Star.  Regina, who works at a furniture store where she does the finishing work, has a secret that she keeps to herself.  And hopes that she can share her beautiful artwork at the shops, without letting on that she was indeed the artist.

As the plans to open The Marketplace come to fruition, and her artwork is a hit with all the people that come there to shop, Regina finds herself trapped in a little web of lies as she covers up the fact that she was the artist.

She finds that she and Gabe, the son of the furniture store owner, have something in common.  Each with a secret that holds them both in it's grip.

This is a beautiful story of love, family, forgiveness and with many touching moments.  I found this book to be an excellent example of human frailty and imperfections.  Yet despite this, life continues and we learn from errors and through  repentance.

This is an excellent book. I couldn't put it down.  You will absolutely love it.

I received an ebook copy from the author.  All thoughts are my own.

Sunday, July 26, 2020

A Pleasant Rivalry by Linda Weaver Clarke (Audible Version)

This was book 3 in the Series called A Willow Valley Historical Romance.  I loved this Audible book!  It was a great historical read and full of surprises.  I totally didn't expect what happened to happen.  So that being said, the time period was an interesting one and I love how the author intertwines historical events and her faith into the story.  It was a new and refreshing tale.

Two different writers for competitive newspapers work on getting the best stories.  They are old friends who were separated in time by 13 years and meet again in their positions as news reporters.

The narrator, Carolyn Kashner, has interesting and enjoyable vocal ability.  It is pleasant to listen to and to hear the different expressions as she told the story.

I am sure you will enjoy this Audible book!  I highly recommend it!

I received an Audible copy of this book from the author.  All thoughts are my own.

Thursday, July 23, 2020

The Mockingbird's Song by Wanda E. Brunstetter Amish Greenhouse Series Book 2

Just finished book 2 in the Amish Greenhouse series.  I had read book 1 and I feel that in order to get the whole picture of what is happening in the story, that the books should be read in proper sequence.  Although the author does a nice job of bringing you up to speed as to what has previously occurred in the story.  Which was good even for when you have already read book 1.  It helps to refresh your mind regarding the characters. 

Virginia is an interesting, snoopy and somewhat grumpy neighbor who hasn't taken the time to appreciate her neighbors.   She definitely needs to get a life, so to speak. 

The others such as Sylvia are dealing with hard life experiences and are working towards healing their minds and souls.  You can see the family interactions, both positive and negative ones, yet they are a loving family always hoping for the good of others, even though sometimes a little on the overprotective side.

I really enjoyed book 2 and it is clear that there will be a book 3, and I don't want to miss it, because clearly we haven't resolved the mystery of the greenhouse vandals.  There is definitely more to come.

Amish romance readers will definitely enjoy this sweet romance and mystery combo and I know I certainly did.

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

Saturday, July 18, 2020

Montana Welcome by Melinda Curtis

I really enjoyed this book!  I enjoyed the captivating beginning.  I enjoyed the satisfying ending and I enjoyed the entertaining parts in between. 

I was happy to see another Blackwell series as I loved the others that I had read before. The authors of the Return of the Blackwell Brothers have joined forces again for this new and captivating series. And this was the start of what appears to be another wonderful, clean and fun series.

This story line of a run-away bride was very fun, enjoyable and kept me reading throughout the pages.  The book's start was full of engaging writing.  You will be in for a fun "ride" with Conner and Lily!  I really felt that this was a wonderful start to the new series and can't wait to read what is coming in the near future.  I loved the conflict when the expected groom comes to claim what he feels is his. 

I received a copy of this book from the author.  All thoughts are my own.

Look at what's coming down the line!





Friday, July 10, 2020

Jeb's Wife by Patricia Johns

I read this book really quickly.  And not because I wanted to finish it soon, but because I had to know how things turned out and what would happen next.  It was a really good book and I found myself reading way past "bedtime". 

I really loved the characters and the sacrifices they made, how they grew, seeing their weaknesses, seeing them recognizing their strengths and those weaknesses that held them back.  It was a good book.  If you love Amish fiction, I am sure you won't be able to put this book down. 

I received an ebook copy from NetGalley.  All thoughts are my own.

Thursday, July 9, 2020

Security Breach by Vannetta Chapman



Book 1. This suspenseful story  was first a part of an anthology called Summer of Suspense.  Although a quick read, it held my interest and is book 1 of the Cyber Division Series.  I really liked Ben, the Amish man, who discovers a woman agent ready to do him in!  I love his character and hope that he will be in book 2! The book moves quickly and there are no dull moments.   I really enjoyed reading this!
This was book 2 of the Cyber Division Series.  These are shorter books, but full of intrigue and definitely makes you think about the future! 
The book takes right off and there are no dull moments.The research involved here, stuns me.  I was so impressed by the infinite knowledge needed to write such an enthralling tale. Great book and a lot to think about! 


Book 2. There has been a breach in internet security and Nora is on the job to find what is happening, and who is causing the attack.  As you read about the events it makes you wonder if something like this could happen and why?  It's a well written book of things that conceivably could occur in a not-so -perfect world.The book is spell-binding and a great addition to book 1.  
Book 3  was a wonderful addition to the first books of this series.  The author is an amazing writer of Dystopian books!  Loved the suspense!  And with all of our current events in the World these days, you can practically visualize it happening in life rather than a book! 

Book 4  was really a fun read!  It took place in locations that I am very familiar with in my home state, Zion National Park and the Virgin River Gorge area.  Such a beautiful setting for an exciting book about cyber terrorists! 

The rock climbing and repelling add a little more excitement.  A favorite hobby of my grandson!  I really enjoyed the book and there seems to be little touch of romance along the way.  Great book.  You will enjoy it!

I received an ebook copy from the author.  All thoughts are my own.

Tuesday, July 7, 2020

A Heartwarming Romance Collection by Wanda E. Brunstetter

This was an enjoyable book and very simply written.  The stories were about people whose self esteem has caused them to have problems in their lives to overcome.  The themes are all Christian and suitable for younger readers.  The stories were easy to read and had happy endings.  They were uplifting and relaxing.  There are lessons to be learned in each and represent a closeness to God and how he can change our lives for the better.

I received an ebook copy from Barbour Publishing and NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.

Saturday, July 4, 2020

Seeking His Love by Carrie Turansky

This book is about a topic that was a youth favorite of mine, drama and the theater.  I was an avid thespian! The story revolves around Rachel Clark who is a new director of the Christian Youth Theater.  I can just imagine and remember the fun involved.  The book is easy reading and a quick read.  It's enjoyable and entertaining.

I received this book as a winner of a giveaway.

Friday, July 3, 2020

A Daughter for the Mountain Firefighter by Melinda Curtis

This was a good book. It's a story that melts your heart.  I love how the characters grow and mature and learn to accept their responsibilities and make personal sacrifices.  The story line is a good one and it has a tough set of circumstances to deal with. It's an enjoyable read which keeps those pages turning.  This does contain adult themes.

I received an ebook copy from the author.  All thoughts are my own.