Ruth's Ginger Snap Surprise by Anne Blackburne (The Heart of the Amish)

I thought this was such a sweet and pleasant book to read.  After a hectic month, I needed a relaxing and enjoyable read and this book was just that for me.  I loved the kitten factor.  I loved the pushy bishop and all the characters were very likeable in their own ways, including even obnoxious Evelyn.  The story is nice in every way and I hope to read more from this author.

I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All thoughts are my own.

 

This cute book has contributions from 16 authors, whose romance books helped to create fun recipes. The book has excerpts from these authors' books. Very clever and fun book.

NetGalley Reading Journal

 

In Royal Ruins by Serena Clarke

This book is a retelling of a story from a Grimms' Fairytale called King Thrushbeard.  In German it was Koenig Drosselbard.  Being a native German, I hate to admit that this is a Grimms' story that I had not heard of.  So that being said, I can't compare or comment as to how the two stories intertwine.  However, I will review it on it's own merits.  I really enjoyed the story how a very pampered princess learned to live a life of a peasant and was forced to marry someone against her will.  This man, Larik, appears to be a most patient and thoughtful peasant and the story of their lives as husband and wife will be a great challenge for this man.  

It is a very engaging story, one that you will want to finish and find out what happens.  Very good story!

I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.
 

Amish Love Letters by Shelley Shepard Gray, Charlotte Hubbard and Rosalind Lauer

This book consists of four wonderful novellas.  It was such a good book and the three stories were each very different and do not relate to each other.  The novellas were written by very talented authors and I loved each of these stories.  The first deals with a very difficult situation and things which needed to be taken care of.  It was a realistic view of some not so perfect family issues.  

The second story entitled S.W.A.K., takes place in Promise Lodge which there are several books about. I have read the Promise Lodge series and love them.  This story was no exception.  I really enjoyed this story.  I enjoyed how Eddie came to help work on repairs for the Tornado damaged lodge. 

The last story was about a young widow who is navigating life without a husband and wondering what the future will bring as her parents try to set her up with someone.

Each story revolves around love letters written between two people.  This was a very sweet Amish book and the stories are well written and all very engaging.  You won't want to put the book down.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

 

Unlikely Sacrifice: An Amish Christmas Story by Jennifer Spredemann

Another wonderful story by this author.  I am so lucky to be able to read these stories which always have an important Christian message.  Brighton is English and Bethany is an Amish young woman.  As they meet and get to know one another a bond grows between them, yet they both understand the realization of the problems this relationship will bring to Bethany especially.  As Brighton heads to college, problems at home return him to his home to help family.  As Bethany learns to understand the Bible teachings, and Jesus' atoning love for us, she grows spiritually.  But she knows what she is doing and learning about will not be accepted well by her parents.

It's a touching and sweet story that I totally enjoyed reading.  I am sure you will as well.  I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Capturing Hope by Angela K. Couch (Heroines of WWII)

First of all, I have enjoyed this series so much and am thrilled to read another in the series that deals with two countries that are my personal heritage.  Germany and Poland. Nadia's father is killed by the Nazis and is left by her German mother.  This is a very dramatic book that touched my soul.  My own mother suffered terribly in the War.  And I have been really drawn to the messages in this series of books. This is a really well written book with Christian values.  I loved the changes that transpired Nadia into the woman she becomes despite the privileged life she has had before.The history of these two countries is quite intertwined and the author has done an excellent job of capturing  the events in her story.  I really recommend this book.  I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This Passing Hour by Leslie Gould Amish Memories

This was an interesting book as Brenna and Rylan become acquainted through a common class they both attend.  It's a different type of Amish story as we travel back in time to the World War II days and also a more current time period. Rylan was not a real likeable character in the story and Brenna was a very compassionate person.  The characters do show a faith in God as is shown as the family prays. The characters have challenges as they try to work through them. Brenna's relationship with Rylan, is not a relationship that her friend, Johann and her sisters feel is good and hope to see end.

The story of the POW's that work the farm which is something I recall from the previous book in the series and is an interesting part of the book and something I this was not aware of prior to reading about it in this series.

Amish fans will enjoy this different type of book, and will appreciate the historical events.  I recommend this most interesting book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This Passing Hour by Leslie Gould

Just Released!!!

 

The Amish Christmas Promise by Amy Lillard

Mattie finds herself expecting a child as her husband unexpectedly passes on.  Samuel is her husband's twin, one who left the Amish and was shunned by his Amish community.  He has come back to keep a promise to care for his twin brother, David's family.

I so enjoyed this sweet romance.  The characters were all believable and Samuel was trying to find his path back to his Amish community, but because of his past life experiences, he is having a difficult time moving forward.  Gossip spreads quickly and things become more and more difficult.

I loved the little goat in the story, always into mischief.  I really thought this was a most engaging book.  I was caught up in it right away.  This was a very sweet romance.  But will Samuel be able to move beyond the events of his former English life?

I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

The Orphans' Amish Christmas by Tracy Fredrychowski (A Willow Springs Mystery)

I loved this novella.  It was full of the Christmas Spirit and goodwill feelings. It's a cozy mystery that will keep you guessing.  It is an enjoyable read and there is just enough mystery to make things very interesting.  I loved the outcome and it leaves you in a very sweet and Christmassy mood.  Things keep happening and you will wonder why and who is the culprit in the story. I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

when Hattie Finds Love by Amy Lillard (Heartwarming Amish romance set in Missouri (Paradise Valley Book 4)

 

This is a sweet and clean romance of a member of the widow’s group, Hattie.  She and her cousin, Elsie decide to make a little bet that Hattie can get a certain grumpy looking widower to “smile”.  Not normally a big challenge but in the case of widower, Christian, it appears to be impossible.  And it is definitely going to be a challenge to see if a smile will ever happen… This is a really enjoyable book and is a light and refreshing story. The story develops in a very organic way and the characters are so nice you just enjoy them so much. I really enjoyed all the characters and their individual roles in the story.  It was a well-paced book and I recommend it to all those Amish fiction lovers out there!  And if you haven’t read Amish fiction, it’s a great way to start your love of this genre. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

The Warsaw Sisters by Amanda Barratt

When I first heard about this book, I knew that it was a must-read for me.  Having family heritage in Poland and Germany and a mother who experienced her youth in this exact environment, I knew it was a book I couldn't miss.  I have been to Poland many times and of course Warsaw.  I felt the author had really done some amazing research into this beautifully restored city.  This book showed the suffering  this war period caused and all that transpired.  The two sisters were in different situations, as Antonina's story with Marek, a Jewish man, brought out some drama and tragic history.  And Antonina helps shelter Jewish children.  Both sisters are very involved in the political upheaval of their country.  All the suffering was very similar to what my mother experienced.  It really reminded me of the tragic times of war. I was absolutely captivated by this book.  It was excellent and this coming from the daughter of someone who saw first hand.  Good Job!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher.  All thoughts and opinions are mine.
 

Her Secret Hope by Shelley Shepard Gray (A Season in Pinecraft Book 3)

This is book 3 of the series.  I felt it was a bit slower and it took a while for me to engage. It touched upon adoption and the feelings that go along with that, which is a topic that has touched my life in many ways.  I love the Pinecraft setting and the book makes me want to go see it for myself.  This was a clean and sweet Amish romance.  I enjoyed seeing some of the characters from the previous books in this series.  The book did touch upon forgiveness, and had sweet characters that filled the pages. 

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher.  All thoughts are my own.

Preorder The Orphan's Amish Christmas by Tracy Fredrychowski

 You’ll love this holiday novella if you like sweet Amish Christmas stories and simple holiday festivities with a little mystery to solve.

Pick up your eBook copy here>> https://readerlinks.com/l/3710811 

Rocky Mountain Promise by Misty M. Beller (Sisters of the Rockies Book 2)

I totally went back in time with this book.  The writing was so engaging that putting the book down was a difficult thing to do.  The characters were real and unique.  The storyline was new and fresh and original.  The setting was rugged yet beautiful to visualize.  It was so enjoyable that I highly recommend it to you.  I can't wait for what the author will write next.  I don't want to miss any of her books.  This book had lots of unexpected events.  And it blends in well with the first book of the series. This rugged period had so much to deal with and so different than today's life, that it was fascinating to see what things occurred to those forging a new life in a wild and untamed land.  I can't wait for book 3! 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Murder on the Wichita by Bruce Hammack (A Fen Maguire Mystery Book 4)

This was a fun read if you are a mystery fan.  And I am!  I enjoyed each of the characters and the parts they played in the story.  The writing was excellent and kept you trying to figure out "who dun it", which was no easy task!  It was full of twists that kept me on the edge of my seat.  I really enjoyed this mystery.

I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A Cowboy Christmas Carol By Melinda Curtis (The Cowboy Academy Book 3)

 First off, this is a fun series to read.  It revolves around twins, Ryan and Tate Oakley and they both quite different.  Jo, has had a not so good earlier life and has worked through the challenges. Jo and Ryan both needs things that they can help each other with and working together on their plans brings them to an unexpected turn of events.

I really enjoyed reading this book and all it had to offer.  The author writes a clean romance and the characters are fun to read about.  I totally wonder what the next book will be like.  I just know that I can hardly wait to read it.  You will love it!

I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Bride by Beguilement by Debbie Lynne Costello

This is a very enjoyable story and I was so happy to be able to read it and enjoy getting to know the characters, their shortcomings and their need to trust.  Which in both the main characters, this was not so easy to do.  The story has quite a few ups and downs that will hold your interest through the very end.

I am sure you will love it!  

I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All thoughts are my own.

The One Year Daily Acts of Gratitude by The Ruth Experience

 

One Year Daily Acts of Gratitude by The Ruth Experience

 

Sisters by the Sea by Wanda E. Brunstetter, Jean Brunstetter, Richelle Brunstetter & Lorine Brunstetter Van Corbach

I loved how the four short stories blended so well together and were so enjoyable to read.  As you progress through the book there is a real connection and it is just like one great story.  I love Amish fiction and this book added to the list of good, clean Amish romances.  It was fun to see how the sisters found their way through life after each having a situation that had to be worked through.  The stories all shared growth in the characters. I loved the Florida setting and the contrast and differences in each of the sisters.  It was a fun read and I will continue reading books written by these authors.

I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Accepted by Paula Peckham (San Antonio Series book 3)

This book covered some interesting topics as they dealt with the San Antonio area of Texas during the Civil War Era.  Quen and Jonathan's story wrapped around these topics and showed the hardships that occurred in this period both to African Americans and those that helped them.  Jonathan has difficulty with his bookkeeping skills for his farm and finds himself with an unexpected helper. This is a Christian read and enjoyable reading but shows the doubts that can hinder our trust in the love of God.  The storyline was realistic and engaging.  Although this is the first time I have read any of this author's works, I will be on the lookout for more of her writing. I received a complimentary copy of this book but was under no obligation to post a positive review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Available wherever Love Inspired books are sold! An Unusual Amish Winter Match by Vannetta Chapman

 Available wherever Love Inspired books are sold!

A Christmas Amish Courtship by Jennifer Spredemann (Amish Courtship Series Book 3)

This was a truly sweet romance.  It was a beautiful story of love and forgiveness and is a wonderful book for a happy start to the Christmas Season.  The characters are so likeable and pleasant to read about and even though there may be some conflicts, it is good to see God's plan coming to fruition for them.  I found this a light read that will bring a smile and that "feel-good" feeling that I love after reading a good book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

The One Year Daily Acts of Gratitude Devotional by Julie Fisk, Kendra Roehl and Kristin Demery

 This book was just what I needed right now.  Being a new widow, sometimes it is hard to find things to be grateful for.  Things seem gloomy as though everything in life seems to go wrong.   The book blurb for this book truly tells it all.  When we reduce our stress, things can be better and this book is just the thing to help you slow down, relax and realize despite some of the trials we may be experiencing there is still much to be grateful for.  The book reminds us that God is still there looking after us and helping us by seeing to our needs.  

The book has stories, scriptures and little reminders of what we can do to show out gratitude to God.  These reminders helps me to put things in perspective and know that my Heavenly Father has not forgotten me as I help others as well.  I often feel that we are His Hands here on Earth doing good for others.  I love how this book helps me to ponder on these thoughts.

I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Against the Wind by Amanda Cabot (Secrets of Sweetwater Crossing Book 2)

This is the second book of this series.  In a word:  I loved it!  It was sweet, had action and mystery and was just plain good reading! Louisa is a brave woman learning to be able to help the sick and injured as a doctor.  Not an easy occupation for a woman in this historic time period.  She is a great example of fortitude and bravery against all odds!

The romance that develops was well paced and their relationship came organically and believable.  It was a very enjoyable book for me and I really want to read more from this talented author.  

I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.  

Shadows at Dusk Available Now!

 This amazing book released today!  It will keep you on the edge of your seat!  I loved it.  Get your copy today at these book sellers:

• BookBub
• Amazon (during launch week)
• Christianbook
• Walmart
• Barnes and Noble
• Google Play Books
• Kobo
• Powell's
• BAM
• Baker Book House

The One Year Daily Acts of Gratitude Devotional by The Ruth Experience

 Available at these links:

https://www.theruthexperience.com/p/our-book.html

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-one-year-daily-acts-of-gratitude-devotional-kristin-demery/1143131311

https://www.tyndale.com/p/the-one-year-daily-acts-of-gratitude-devotional/9781496462329

https://www.christianbook.com/one-year-daily-acts-gratitude-devotional/julie-fisk/9781496462329/pd/6462329?en=google&event=SHOP&kw=preorder-0-20|6462329&p=1179710&utm_source=google&dv=c&cb_src=google&cb_typ=shopping&cb_cmp=13648361646&cb_adg=124815399740&cb_kyw=&snav=GMERCH&gclid=CjwKCAjwmbqoBhAgEiwACIjzEDB62sBcMhBMVjhTeaBJjR_OR8qRqWCT6bR3ur2JcZrqAoN49S6zkRoC-3wQAvD_BwE

#dailyactsofgratitude

#gratitudedevotional

Lights, Camera, Christmas Town! By Melinda Curtis, Anna J. Stewart, Beth Carpenter, Cari Lynn Webb, Cheryl Harper, Leanne Bristow, Liz Flaherty, and Tanya Agler

This collection of Christmas short stories is a continual book written in 8 parts with each being written by a different author. Each of these authors is on my "go to" author list.  I have read books from each and knew that this would be a book that I totally enjoy.  And it was!

It follows through the fun location of Christmas Town, Maine.  There are different types of romances in this collection, ranging from second chance romance to various other romances.  It revolves around making a movie in Christmas Town and the participants from crew to townspeople.  So fun!  Especially for me, an old dramatics arts person!  Loved it!  I am sure it will keep you entertained throughout, as well!

I received a complimentary copy and was not required to give a positive review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

An Unusual Amish Winter Match by Vannetta Chapman (Indiana Amish Market Series

An Unusual Amish Winter Match

Ada is not your "typical" Amish girl.  She deeply loves animals and is very conscientious about seeing to their well-being.  She is a somewhat quirky character, and that will make you like her even more!   Ethan is sensible, serious and Ada is none of that which seems to maybe annoy him just a bit...  But serious family issues may cause them to help out and end up spending unwanted time together.

I really enjoyed this sweet Amish romance and you never know the circumstances that bring people together.  I am sure you will love it too, if you are an Amish fan like me!

I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to give a positive review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Shadows at Dusk by Elizabeth Goddard

This book grabbed me right from the prologue and till the very end.  It was full of action, mystery, and all the feels.  This was an absolutely incredible read.  There was no way to know what would happen next and believe me, there were no dull moments in this book.  Carrie's past is quite dramatic and amazing. Having a grandson who is a commercial pilot, the book held my attention without fail.  The characters were all so well written and developed throughout the book and I can't wait to read the next book in this captivating series.  I received a complimentary copy of this book and was under no obligation to post a positive review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

On Moonberry Lake by Holly Varni

This is the first book from this author that I have read.  I am so glad that I had the opportunity to read it!  I really enjoyed it.  It was a relaxing, sweet story of Cora Matthews and how she turns her life around with sweet and often very quirky neighbors and friends in Moonberry Lake, property and lodge that she inherited.  The lodge is very run-down and locals come to help.  It is such a nice story.  I hope you will take the time to read it!  I loved to see Cora grow and develop as she undertakes the project and interacts with those around her.  I highly recommend this book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book with no requirement for a positive review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A Small Town Girl with a Big City Secret by Melinda Curtis

Can I say this probably might just be my absolute fave book of this series!?  Well, that is the case and it was such a sweet story that I really didn't want it to end.  Single mom, Mina loves her son and will do anything to protect him.  Including keeping a secret that weighs heavily on her mind.  Hudson McCloud is a prominent man from an also prominent politically oriented family. He has secrets in his past, too.  The secrets seem to hold both back from moving forward and on with their lives.  

Liam is a sweet chess-playing boy and Mina's son.  The characters are all so engaging and the book was one that I couldn't put down easily.  So good!  Sweet romance and a wonderful realistic and believable story line.  In a few words:  I loved it!

I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to give a positive review.  All thoughts and opinions are mine.

The Flower Quilter by Mindy Steele (The Heart of the Amish)

This book shares the feeling that we are not all cut out of the same cloth and that is the case with Barbara whose family members are all natural quilters.  But it is not "her thing".  She loves to find her own way and she finds herself in the town of her grandmother, (another family quilter) and meets Melvin and together they quilt beautiful landscaping of flowers in wonderful patterns.

It's a very sweet story and the first book I have read by this author.  I enjoyed it very much and hope to read more from this author.  Very nicely done! I received a complimentary copy and was not required to give a positive review.  All opinions and thoughts are my own.

Against All Enemies

 

The Christmas Quilt by Vannetta Chapman

 

I just finished reading The Christmas Quilt and really enjoyed this.  I would gladly say that the author wove together a beautiful story of peace, forgiveness and family ties. This is a reprint from 10 years ago, so if you missed it, here's your chance to read a wonderful Amish story just in time for the holidays.

The story begins as two young Amish women are preparing for their marriages on the same day.  Annie and Leah share their feelings of joy and happiness at the coming of this happy event.  The story progresses as both women, now married, are both expecting a child, or in the case of Leah, twins.  Leah is married to Annie's brother and as her pregnancy advances she is no longer feeling the closeness to her husband and their marriage does not appear to be as happy as she had hoped or expected it to be at the time of their wedding. 

Leah's pregnancy starts to have complications and some serious problems associated with it.  As time progresses, her husband, Adam, finds her curled up on the floor in the middle of the night.  Realizing that she needs more help than he himself can provide for her, he contacts Annie and her husband, Samuel, for help.  Samuel having some medical knowledge, himself, realizes that he too must call for help and an ambulance is summoned.  Leah is brought to the hospital and after a time, it is realized she must go to yet another hospital for the care her two unborn children are so in need of.  This will take her farther from her family but it seems there is no option.

Annie realizing that Adam needs to care for their home and continue to work to help pay for the hospital expenses, finds a place near the hospital where she can stay and take care of Leah's needs. 
Each day she works on a quilt for Leah.  The quilt takes on significant meaning as the two share scripture time together and special stories together.  The two become close as the time progresses and Leah realizes how much Adam still means to her and Adam finds he too, greatly misses his wife.  As the two await their child, their Amish community comes together to find ways to help them with their expenses due to the extended hospital stay.

The stories and scriptural references begin to bind the two women together and help to calm Leah's fears and apprehension of the expected earlier birth of their children.  With each day the tender feelings between Adam and Leah seem to be returning.  This story gives wonderful hope that we can all  find ways to heal wounds that have torn us apart from those that are the most important to us in our lives.  It is a sweet book that helps us mend our souls.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to give a positive review.  All thoughts are my own.

Against All Enemies by Vannetta Chapman (An Allison Quinn Thriller)

 Wow!  So real you could definitely see things in this book really happening.  A thrilling story of a Homeland Security agent, Allison Quinn and Donovan Steele, who forge ahead to find the people who are planning a cyber attack on a cruise ship.  This is definitely a page turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout.  I love a good thriller and this certainly fit the bill!  The author is truly a talented writer.You won't want to miss this book!

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

Shadows at Dusk By Elizabeth Goddard

From Elizabeth Goddard

 I loved writing SHADOWS AT DUSK because it's my "Romancing the Stone" story, but with a TWIST! That has long been one of my all-time favorite movies. I love the action and the adventure and the traveling around exotic places. Let me be clear, SHADOWS AT DUSK is not a romantic comedy, but it's a wild, adventurous ride.

To get a sneak peak--read the first chapter here: https://bit.ly/45ZALDJ

Visit the MISSINGINALASKASERIES.COM website to learn more--like where to purchase and how to get FREEBIES with your purchase! Baker Book House has 40 % off and free shipping on Pre-Orders!

Pre-Order Purchase Links:

Amazon: https://amzn.to/461vqLT

Baker Book House: https://shorturl.at/ehtM2

B&N: https://shorturl.at/gvDGO

Christianbook: https://shorturl.at/kAJO0

Kobo: https://shorturl.at/otTW1

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Preorder Today Shadows at Dusk by Elizabeth Goddard