A Brighter Dawn by Leslie Gould (Amish Memories Book 1

This was a very different Amish fiction book than what I first expected but was delightfully surprised.  It was a dual time period book, which I am not always fond of, because I often get a little confused which time period I am reading. But this one was very well written with a current time period and the time frame as WWII approaches. Having parents that lived in WWII Germany, this story held my interest as I recalled the stories my own mother shared with me.  And that is what happens in this book as Rosene shares Clare's story of helping family in Germany. The story is about the Anabaptist struggles through this time period and how they dealt with them.  The Current story also has a mystery to it in regards to the tragic death of Ivy's parents.  The book was very interesting and I enjoyed reading it very much!

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

Destination Romance by Julane Hiebert, K. Marie Libel, Rose Allen McCauley, Kim Vogel Sawyer, Constance Shilling Stevens

This was a great romance collection.  There were 3 new authors for me and so that made it interesting.  The five stories in this collection were a unique collection, some historical and contemporary.  So something for all readers, I felt.

Each story was very different and I enjoyed each storyline as it developed.  This was a Christian read, and that's my style of reading.

I really enjoyed each of the stories and recommend the book.  It was very well written.

Lawfully Pursued by Lorana Hoopes

This book which is a part of the Lawkeepers series, was very good.  Although only 109 pages, it developed a great store of redemption and starting over.  Well written and very entertaining.  The author did a good job in telling the story of Brie and Swat Officer Jesse.

I was impressed with Jesse, as he stuck to his beliefs and didn't let others influence him in a way he did not believe was right.  That says a lot for his character.  Brie realizes that there are changes in her as she gets to know him and that those changes are good.

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

The Rancher's Answered Prayer by Arlene James

This is the first book that I have read from this author.  I enjoy many of the Love Inspired books from this publisher, and I really enjoyed reading this one.

The storyline is a new one, too, of people that both inherited property from the same person and received "different" parts of that inherited property.  Neither wishes to give up their rights and so they must work together to make it work and all come together.

The story is a fun one to read.  Liked it very much!

Publisher Harlequin

A Past Forgiven by Lorana Hoopes

This book was a bit different for a Christian fiction, but did cover issues of young adults that affect many people and causes grief and problems for many of them.

Jess and Chad find themselves at the same college, both with attitudes and problems from the past that cause behaviors to be difficult to deal with for people around them.

Jess is disappointed and angered that she doesn't receive the private room she requested and has a religious roommate.  Something she would not have wanted, ever!

But as she meets Chad and they are instantly attracted.  Both with pasts they keep buried in their hearts.

As their hearts are turned by friends and relatives, they realize there are changes needed.  But will they be able to fix the problems?  And if so, how?

This book was very real life.  Our lives, and those of many are not perfect.  There are things everyone needs to work on to better themselves.  Sometimes this is a difficult process.  Enjoyed the book.

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

Shadows of Hope by Georgiana Daniels

This is the first book of this author that I have read.  It isn't my normal "comfort zone" genre, but I have to say it was very engaging and had a lot of real life "realities" in it. 

That being said, the book holds the reader's attention throughout.  It was pretty fast moving for the most part.  I felt sad that Kaitlyn's relationship with her parents did not help her through the circumstances that she finds herself in.  But I am sure that is another real life challenge that often needs addressing.

Although Kaitlyn feels remorse for her situation, she doesn't wallow in it, but works to find her path again.

I wasn't too happy about Colin as a character, for obvious reasons stated in the book blurb, however, he tries to work through his issues as well.

The book  was good.  Glad I got to read it.

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

Life in Chapel Springs Book 4 by Ane Mulligan

Just finished reading Life in Chapel Springs, the 4th book of this series.  It was a fun read and I enjoyed it very much. 

I enjoyed the friendships of the characters. I hadn't read the previous book, but somewhat wished that I had so that I would have known the characters better at the start of the book.

It was a good, clean and interesting book.  The story of Lacey was one that was unexpected and kept you reading to see what would happen.

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

You're Gonna Love Me by Robin Lee Hatcher

me 

This book by Robin Lee Hatcher was so good.  A story of Love, trust, forgiveness and faith.  I really enjoyed the book and there were no dull moments.  The story was well paced and kept my attention.

For me it was extra fun that it took place in my neighbor state and mentioned locations in Idaho where I have been and spent time making it even more easy to relate to.

It was a sweet and clean romance, and a story of second chances. Although the second book of a series, it was great as a standalone.  

Nick and Samantha ended a relationship, both with hurt feelings.  They end up in the same place without knowing that the other was also there.  Will they learn to trust God and one another?

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was under no obligation to post a review.

The Engagement Plot by Krista Phillips

This was a new author for me.  In this story, a reality game show features a handsome, influential, well-to-do bachelor with a choice of many young women.  He chose Hanna and the story proceeds by Will's bad choices in letting the public think that there was more to their relationship then what really occurred.  Hanna feels her reputation has been ruined and the engagement ends. 

The Minnesota school teacher, Hanna, unknowingly rescues Will from a blizzard car accident and the story continues. 

The story is fun, interesting and engaging.  It was a fun read. 

I would enjoy reading more of her writings.

I received a free e-book copy of this book for my review.  All thoughts are my own.

Healing a Heart by Amy Lillard

Amy Lillard is one of my favorite authors.  She writes both Amish and contemporary books.This was among her contemporary books.

Because of a night together, Bryn finds herself in a situation which causes her to speak to Jake regarding the results of that night spent together.  His immediate response was not one that she agreed with, but as his family asks her to stay with them for a while she finds herself drawn to Jake and he to her.

This story was very well written, however, not the genre I normally would read.  I enjoyed the book but being that it was  a contemporary book there were some parts that I quickly passed over.  The story was good and I enjoyed reading it.

I received an ebook copy from Netgalley for my honest review, which I have given.

Karla by Sharon Srock (Audible Version)

Faith, love, patience, loss, recovery and forgiveness are some of the themes that you will see in this wonderful book by Sharon Srock.  It is book 6 in the Valley View series.  It can easily be considered a stand-alone book as well.  It is the final book of this series.

I really enjoyed it.  Being close to Karla in age, I can understand her feelings of loss after a long, happy marriage and then trying to make it on her own.  It is interesting to see the reactions of friends and family as Karla tries to emerge from the darkness of her loss and return to living a happy and fulfilling life.

Relationships with family can be strained as is apparent in this book and made it feel real to me.  I think the characters were well portrayed and it was easy to see their feelings as they dealt with the problems they faced.

I enjoyed the expression and characterization of the narrator, Laura Jennings, and felt that she did a great job to bring across the feelings of the people she portrayed.  I definitely want to read and "listen" to more books by this author.

I received an Audible version of this book from the author for my honest review, which I have given.
You can grab a copy at this link.

This Side of Heaven

This latest by Diane Dean White is another of her great stories and starts as Darlene and her children find their way to the South to escape an abusive relationship.  Trying to keep her past in the past and hidden from the view of others, she meets Brett and a new road leads her to a new life as they merge their lives together.  A book of trust in the paths God has laid out for us on our life's journey, you will be drawn in by the characters, their lives and their experiences.

Darlene, a northerner, finds her life in the South can be a learning experience, as she tries to overcome her anxieties and trials.  This book has romance, mystery all written with Christian values. That is what I look for in a book these days and it fits the bill. I am sure you will enjoy this book as much as I did.

The Trouble with Millionaires by Amy Lillard Writing as Amie Louellen

This is a sweet romance story of Suzanne, maker of homemade herbal shampoos, in fact a blue shampoo concoction with some special love potion qualities. Or so it would appear as Brice, the hero of the story finds himself accidentally drinking some of it.

The story is a cute, clean version of this book, although with some tension there making you aware of their un-admitted feelings towards each other.

It's fun to read about their interesting situation after Brice drinks the shampoo and even more fun to see their relationship take some interesting turns along the way.  I think you will enjoy this story as I did.  Amy's books are always a fun read.

I received an ebook version of this book for my honest review which I have given.

How a Star Falls by Amber Stokes

Amber Stokes writes a sweet, clean romance novella with a bit of mystery as to who this mysterious young woman is and why she is dressed as she is.  I was able to listen to an audible version of this book narrated by Patrick Wilson Mahaney.  I enjoyed it and it captured my attention throughout as I wondered who this mystery lady truly was.

Two people searching to find themselves in a confusing world with things pulling them in different directions.  It's a sweet story and I think you will enjoy it.

I was given an Audible version of this book from the author for my honest review, which I have given.

It's Release Day for While You're Awake

This was the first story of this author's that I was lucky enough to have read.  It is a novelette, shorter than full-length book or novella.  It was a quick but sweet read.  I had it read in a short time and enjoyed the read very much.  I hope to have other opportunities to read this author's works.

The story was based on a real experience by author Amber Stokes.  I suspect it was one that would leave quite an impression and be a hard-to-forget one, at that! Fun story to read, and it leaves you with that feel-good feeling! I recommend this as an enjoyable, clean read.

And today is release day, always an exciting day for authors and of course, their readers!

About the Book

Sweet New Adult Contemporary Romance Novelette

There’s no rest for the fearful.

Ava always knew the bees would come. Just when she’s settled into a place of her own, freelance editing and savoring her independence, her rental house is invaded by a swarm of honey bees. And with their arrival, her lifelong fear morphs into a full-fledged panic that steals her sleep—and her peace of mind.

Keegan knows all about fear. When he meets Ava at the coffee shop where he works, he can’t help but come to her rescue. Together with his German shepherds, Sun and Moon, he sets out to break the “curse” that hovers over Tired Girl. But is it possible to conquer nightmares and live a dream while you're awake?

This sweet novelette is a contemporary re-imagining of the Sleeping Beauty fairy tale that sheds light on the worries that bind us and the love that leads to peace.

Purchase for $.99 on Amazon! | Add to Goodreads

Author Bio

Amber Stokes works as a marketing content writer for a Christian publisher. On the side, she self-publishes inspirational fiction depicting the seasons of life and love. Her passion for books compelled her to earn a bachelor's degree in English and run her own freelance editing and publicity business for over a year. Happily, this chapter of her career takes place in the Pacific Northwest—a part of the world she's always considered home.

You can learn more about Amber’s books, sign up for her author newsletter, join the Amber’s Gems street team, and more at www.SeasonsofaStory.blogspot.com.

Social Media Links

Blog: www.seasonsofhumility.blogspot.com

Goodreads: Amber Stokes

Pinterest: pinterest.com/seasonshumility

Twitter: @SeasonsHumility

Giveaway!

Enter to win a little something sweet from Ava, Keegan, and the author! One winner will receive a lovely yellow and gold flower necklace & earrings set from Baubles, Beads and Stuff; a $10 Starbucks gift card (delivered electronically); and a Kindle copy of While You’re Awake (can be gifted to a friend, if desired!). Open to US residents only due to shipping costs.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

While You're Awake Cover Reveal and Review, A Novelette by Amber Stokes

This was the first story of this author's that I was lucky enough to have read.  It is a novelette, shorter than full-length book or novella.  It was a quick but sweet read.  I had it read in a short time and enjoyed the read very much.  I hope to have other opportunities to read this author's works.

The story was based on a real experience by author Amber Stokes.  I suspect it was one that would leave quite an impression and be a hard-to-forget one, at that! Fun story to read, and it leaves you with that feel-good feeling! I recommend this as an enjoyable, clean read.

About the Book

Sweet New Adult Contemporary Romance Novelette

There’s no rest for the fearful.

Ava always knew the bees would come. Just when she’s settled into a place of her own, freelance editing and savoring her independence, her rental house is invaded by a swarm of honey bees. And with their arrival, her lifelong fear morphs into a full-fledged panic that steals her sleep—and her peace of mind.

Keegan knows all about fear. When he meets Ava at the coffee shop where he works, he can’t help but come to her rescue. Together with his German shepherds, Sun and Moon, he sets out to break the “curse” that hovers over Tired Girl. But is it possible to conquer nightmares and live a dream while you're awake?

This sweet novelette is a contemporary re-imagining of the Sleeping Beauty fairy tale that sheds light on the worries that bind us and the love that leads to peace.

Pre-order for $.99 on Amazon! | Add to Goodreads

Author Bio

Amber Stokes works as a marketing content writer for a Christian publisher. On the side, she self-publishes inspirational fiction depicting the seasons of life and love. Her passion for books compelled her to earn a bachelor's degree in English and run her own freelance editing and publicity business for over a year. Happily, this chapter of her career takes place in the Pacific Northwest—a part of the world she's always considered home.

You can learn more about Amber's books, sign up for her author newsletter, join the Amber’s Gems street team, and more at www.SeasonsofaStory.blogspot.com.

Social Media Links

Blog: www.seasonsofhumility.blogspot.com

Goodreads: Amber Stokes

Pinterest: pinterest.com/seasonshumility

Twitter: @SeasonsHumility

Personality Quiz

Are you Sleeping Beauty, a barista, or an angel? This fun and quirky personality quiz takes some of the personality types from While You’re Awake and offers you a chance to discover how you inspire others. Hopefully you’ll be encouraged to keep being awesome, wonderful you!

*Disclaimer: This is just a for-fun quiz. The results are designed to encourage but not to diagnose!
To take the quiz click here!

Format: Kindle ebook
Fairy-tale basis: Sleeping Beauty
Genre: NA contemporary romance
Length: Novelette (about 15,000 words) 

Texting Mr. Right by Diane Dean White

This was a sweet romance and a quick read.  I was the winner of this nice, enjoyable  and clean read.

It is a story about Megyn and Brandon both friends that find there is more to their friendship than first thought.  He has a career.  She has a career, in different places and they find ways to communicate as is available through our modern day culture. Texting, emails, etc.

As they become serious, it is clear that neither wants to move or give up their futures.  Will love win out or how will things go for this couple?

There is reference to praying for the answers to serious questions and using these answers to guide their lives along their various paths.  This is actually something I enjoy in a book, people not afraid to share religious feelings and I find this often draws me to the author and makes me a fan!

Good book, Diane Dean White.  Hope I can read more of your work!

Author Diane Dean White.  You can read this book free currently on Kindle Unlimited.  To learn more about Diane, here is the link to her website.

Take Me Back To Texas by Amy Lillard

Elizabeth McGee is surprised to hear she has inherited her grandmother's house in Loveless, Texas. Now working in L.A., Elizabeth heads to Texas to settle the estate of her grandmother and is again surprised to see the house renovations being done by JD her former sweetheart from years past.  JD had found another and broken her heart.  Elizabeth finds he is now widowed with a teenage daughter.
Will the pulls of the past keep Elizabeth, AKA Bethie Grace, in Texas or will she follow her plan to return back to L.A.?

This is a very nice romance.  It was a fairly quick read but the characters were very engaging, although sometimes you felt as though you could share a little advice with them.  Although there is no changing the past, the book lets you know that the future can be better and that sometimes we need to get beyond the old mistakes and move ahead.

Good book.  I recommend it.  Good job Amy Lillard!
I was given an ebook from the author for my honest review which I have given.

Waiting Hearts by Beth Ann Stifflemire

This was a really nice read.  Beth Ann Stifflemire has a warm touch to her writing that I enjoy.  The version I received was an Audible version which I won in a giveaway. I liked that fact as I was able to plug my phone into my car's bluetooth and listen on my way to and from work.  I also liked the fact the I could speed up the narrator, as the original speed seemed a bit too slow for me and the way that I like to read.

The story is about Kayla Parker, 26 year old 2nd grade teacher.  Because of a heart condition, she tends to avoid the night scene and prefers to lead a quiet school teacher life style.  Her heart condition, having been apparently genetic as her father had died of it, causes her to have regular doctor's appointments, and medical regimens to abide by.

One evening she accidentally bumps into musician, Gabe Sanderson.  As the days go on, the run into each other as if by fate.  As they come to know each other, Gabe appears to accept all about Kayla, including her dog, Deke and especially her health concerns.

There are several twists and turns in the story.  It's happy.  It's sad.  It's all the emotions that are found in love stories.  I enjoyed this story very much and am happy to have had the chance to become acquainted with this author's writing style.

Author Beth Ann Stifflemire, contemporary romance writer from one of my favorite states:  Texas!

Her Tycoon Hero by Narelle Atkins

A fun read by Narelle Atkins!  Cassie has changed, found that she no longer wants to be the party girl, finds religion and wants a new life.  She is now a career oriented young woman looking for career advancement in the event planning business.

She meets Ryan Mitchell, brother of someone she had hoped to keep in her past.  Sean, Ryan's brother means trouble and Cassie is trying to avoid that at all costs.  Yet her new religious faith has her wanting to help him so that he too can find a new and better life.  She and Ryan don't quite agree as it comes to Sean, or Cassie's father for that matter.

How is it possible to forgive all the things of the past?  This book is a story of forgiveness and second chances taking place in Australia.  I enjoyed Narelle's book.  It is the second book I have read from this author.  I enjoy the Christian threads that clearly come through in her writings.

Author Narelle Atkins.

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