Emily Wierenga's A Promise in Pieces ~ Reviewed

A Promise in Pieces
Emily T Wierenga
Series: Quilts of Love
Paperback: 208 pages
Publisher: Abingdon Press (April 15, 2014)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1426758855

Description:

A small gift, a simple promise, a life forever changed It’s been more than fifty years since Clara cared for injured WWII soldiers in the Women’s Army Corp. Fifty years since she promised to deliver a dying soldier’s last wish. And fifty years since that soldier’s young widow gave her the baby quilt—a grief-ridden gift that would provide hope to countless newborns in the years to come. On her way to the National World War II Museum in New Orleans, Clara decides it’s time to share her story. Little does she know she will re-gift the quilt one more time—to a recipient who, perhaps, is most deserving of all.

Review: 

A Promise In Pieces is about a woman named Clara Wilson.  While on a road trip with her whole family to meet an old friend, she begins to tell her life story to her grandson.  Clara served in WWII as a nurse, much to the frustration of her family.  She returns from the Army Nurse Corps to deliver a dying soldier’s last wish, a note stating his love for his young bride, Mattie, which Clara wrote for him while he dictated before he passed away.  As Clara tries to settle back in to a normal life and deal with her own post-war trauma, she decides to use a quilt Mattie had given her, which was to be a baby quilt for her own children, to honor the sacrifices of the soldiers and their families. 

                

This was a wonderful book, and really kept my interest.  Just when the back story would get interesting, the author would cut back to the present to let us know what was going on while Clara was relating the story to her family.  I really enjoyed watching her character progress, and seeing the struggles she went through, and how her faith in God was restored. 

Reviewed by: Sarah Meyers

Bonus Review: 

Emily T Wierenga's debut novel, A Promise in Pieces, grabbed hold of my heart and didn't let go until I read "The End," and even then, the characters have lingered in my mind. Well-written, this touching story will leave you wanting more from this talented new author. Novel Rocket and I give it our highest recommendation. It's a 5-star must read.

Reviewed by: Ane Mulligan

Stu Summers's Summers' Love ~ Reviewed

Summers' Love, A Cute and Funny Cinderella Love Story
by Stu Summers (Author)
Paperback: 250 pages
Publisher: Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas (April 7, 2014)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1938499204

Description: 

Following the collapse of her interior design business, Kate Winston moves to Georgetown with hopes of making it as a sales rep for Tasmania, a company selling personal protection devices for women. With rapes, robberies, and domestic violence on the rise, the nation's capital is a ripe market. But Kate's stun gun party implodes when her guests demand she sweeten the deal by providing autographed copies of In Heat, the latest best-selling novel by Stu Summers. With creditors breathing down her neck, Kate drives to Page Me Bookstore, where adoring fans clamor for a picture with the New York Times sexy and single romance writer. 

Stu expects the flirty smiles and women fawning praise, but when his editor phones to inform Stu that his latest manuscript failed to impress the publishing board, his carefully crafted career begins to unravel. Stu has one week to deliver a complete rewrite that meets his readers' demanding standards. And he would if only he could write. But he can't. Not a lick. 

For years Stu has paid a church secretary to ghostwrite his novels. Only now Hattie May Hall feels God calling her to write paranormal prairie Amish thrillers with an evangelical, Western twist. With Stu's career on the line and Kate's big sale in jeopardy, an unlikely pair of hearts collide, providing a shocking climax at the world's biggest stun gun ball.

Review: 

When I read that Stu Summers had written himself - or his name - into Summer's Love, I frankly didn't know quite what to expect. Still, I read on. His humor and a delightful story drew me. Then came the twist I didn't expect. And so much more. Summer's Love is definitely not your normal romance. It's a love story at its best. One with a perfect ending. If you like romance, you will definitely love Summer's Love. Novel Rocket and I give it a high recommendation.

Reviewed by: Ane Mulligan

Robin Lee Hatcher's A Promise Kept ~ Reviewed

A Promise Kept
Robin Lee Hatcher
Pages 304
Binding Softcover
Release Date Dec 1, 2013
Publisher Thomas Nelson
ISBN 1401687652




Description

God was going to save her marriage, Allison was sure of it. But neither her husband nor her marriage had been saved.

What had become of His promise?

Tony Kavanagh had been Allison's dream-come-true. They were in love within days, engaged within weeks, married and pregnant within a year. Her cup bubbled over with joy . . . but years later, that joy had been extinguished by unexpected trials.

The day Allison issued her husband an ultimatum, she thought it might save him. She never expected he would actually leave. She was certain God had promised to heal; it was clear that she'd misunderstood.

Now, living in the quiet mountain cabin she inherited from her single, self-reliant Great Aunt Emma, Allison must come to terms with her grief and figure out how to adapt to small town life. But when she finds a wedding dress and a collection of journals in Emma's attic, a portrait of her aunt emerges that takes Allison completely by surprise: a portrait of a heartbroken woman surprisingly like herself.

As Allison reads the incredible story of Emma's life in the 1920s and 1930s, she is forced to ask a difficult question: Does she really surrender every piece of her life to the Lord?

Drawing from her own heart-wrenching story of redemption, "A Promise Kept" is Robin Lee Hatcher's emotionally charged thanksgiving to a God who answers prayers--in His own time and His own ways.

Review:

A Promise Kept tells us about Allison Kavanagh.  After marrying Tony, the love of her life, she thought life would be perfect.  But shortly after her marriage, she realizes a secret he’s been hiding, his love for alcohol.  While not a violent drunk, his addiction drives a wedge between himself and Allison.  Allison finally delivers an ultimatum, trusting that Tony would turn things around and God would save her marriage, but Tony did not agree and left.  Allison moves herself to a quiet mountain cabin that she inherited from her Great Aunt Emma.  As she settles into the house, she finds several journals that belonged to her aunt, as well as an old wedding dress, which was a mystery, because, as far as the family knew, Aunt Emma had never married.  As Allison begins to read the journals, she realizes how much alike she and her aunt were, and she learns the true importance of laying everything at the Lord’s feet and trusting Him for the outcome.

                

This was a great story.  I loved the idea of Allison retreating to live in a cabin in the mountains.  I could picture it in my mind, and imagine it being somewhere I’d love to live.  I also related to the fact that Allison had plans all laid out and figured that God planned on keeping them just the way Allison wanted, and when something went wrong, it caused Allison to question herself and how in tune she was with the Lord’s will.  I’ve found myself in that position several times, so it was nice to see her and how she came out in the end.

Reviewed by: Sarah Meyers

Creston Mapes's Sky Zone ~ Reviewed

SKY ZONE

By Creston Mapes

Published by David C. Cook

ISBN#978-0-7814-0817-2

400 Pages

ABOUT BOOK: A rally for a controversial presidential candidate. 
A terrorist threat.

A nightmare of cataclysmic proportions.

Jack and Pamela Crittendon have hit the breaking point. After months out of work as a reporter, Jack is playing Mr. Mom and working part-time at Festival Arena with his survivalist friend Brian Shakespeare. Meanwhile, Pamela has gone back to work full-time while eight months pregnant. Having her recently widowed mother on hand isn’t making matters any easier.

With financial pressures boiling, Jack reports for duty at a rally for controversial presidential candidate Martin Sterling where he expects a mindless night on the job. But when Homeland Security picks up intel about a potential terrorist threat, Jack and Shakespeare are thrust into a life-or-death battle to save their own lives—and the lives of thousands of innocent people.

This third book in The Crittendon Filesreminds us of the power of family, friendships and faith—and why we are never in as much control as we think. 

REVIEW: I’m thankful for the review copy of a book I just couldn’t put down. This is a nail biting suspense drama that’s all too real. It reminded me of two movies Airforce One with Harrison Ford, from a political point of view with the danger and on the edge suspense. The other movie was Die Hard with Bruce Willis because of all the people on the inside he trying to save people from the bad guys. A few insiders were the eyes and ears for the police outside which created dramatic tension. 

This story picks up about where the last book leaves off. Jack Crittendon finds it hard to obtain full time work so he is working part-time as a security person at the Columbus Festival Arena. His wife Pamela has had to go back to work full-time as Administrative assistant to a local orthodontist office to make ends meet. Both of them hate their situations since she’s now expecting their third child. 

When Jack gets to work he discovers that singer Everett and Senator Martin Sterling will be at the Arena that night, which meant this place was going to be hopping.  He works with Shakespeare who’s x-military and takes pride in arming himself and family for a collapse of America’s economy. They both think of strategies for tonight’s crowd. 

Shakespeare shares the reason for his life style and possible disaster forecast for America with Jack, “You control individuals with guns and weapons, like Hitler did, but you control the population with food….If food is cut off you have chaos, societal bedlam. Pillaging. Theft. Gang of looters. What do you do then?” He wanted Jack to start preparing for this event now like him and his family were. 

Shakespeare went on to tell him about the Get Home Bag. “It’s a bag of necessities you keep in your car in case the mud hits the fan while you’re away from home. It’s got everything you need to get you home – then you can decide whether you are going to bug out or hunker down –  I can show you mine. You’ll need a SRL too – Survival Retreat location. It’s when home base is no longer good. It’s when there’s complete breakdown of society with people starving and panic, looting from house to house…You’ve got to bug out because every house, barn, store and building will be searched for food and supplies.” 

“Jack and his wife had been to Shakespeare and his wife’s survival camp (home), it was astounding.”

Jack liked his friend but who had time to think about all this much less do it. But he’d be polite and listen. 

There’s a call on the radio for both of them to report to the office. There they hear the news that homeland security has picked up a threat of a possible attack at the Arena that night. His boss was deciding whether to cancel the event or delay opening so they could search the place to make sure it was safe for their visitors. One of the workers says to the boss, “We did a full sweep last night after the hockey game just like always.” This was a 12,000 seat venue. 

“You know as well as I do that if someone wanted to spend the night in this building they could. If these guys are pros and this things been planned out, they could have been hanging from the ceiling like bats for all we know. There are plenty of places to hide. I say they’re in here now and we should evacuate.” 

Time was ticking down for the arrival of baby number three. Pam had been a stay at home mom for all of their kids. That’s where her heart was and where Jack wanted her to be too; home with their new born. She couldn’t believe God wasn't making that happen.

I highly recommend you prepare time to really enjoy this book; it’s one you can’t put down once you start.  Mapes writing shines in his best novel to date. Don't miss this riveting, page-turning thriller that will have you up late reading the dramatic, satisfying conclusion of an all too real scenario. 

Reviewed by: Nora St Laurent

TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org

Finding Hope Through Fiction www.psalm516.blogspot.com  

Mona Hodgson's The Quilted Heart ~ Reviewed

THE QUILTED HEART
Mona Hodgson
Pages 400
Binding Softcover
Release Date Jan 21, 2014
Series Quilted Heart
ISBN 0307731146



Description

Like a beautiful patchwork quilt, the three novellas in The Quilted Heart tell stories of lives stitched together with love and God's unending grace. 

Once a week, Elsa Brantenberg hosts the Saint Charles Quilting Circle at her farmhouse on the outskirts of the riverside town of St. Charles, Missouri. The ladies who gather there have all experienced heartache related to the intense hardships of the Civil War, and together, they are facing their painful circumstances with friendship and prayer. Can the tattered pieces of their hearts be stitched together by God's grace?                 

Review

The Quilted Heart follows three young women in St. Charles, Missouri.  All have been through different experiences during the Civil War, but become friends through a quilting circle held once a week. Maren Jensen took a job At Elsa Brantenberg’s home after being rejected as a mail-order bride due to her impending blindness.  She is content at the moment to help Elsa at her home, as well as to help her raise her granddaughter, Gabi.  When Gabi’s father, “Wooly,” returns after disappearing when Gabi’s mother died, Maren finds herself hoping for a chance at love.  Emilie Heinrich helps her father run the town general store. While her father insists she continue her education at a local Ladies’ college, Emilie is content to stay home and take care of her father.  In the meantime, she is reacquainted with childhood friend, Quaid, and comes to realize she may want more out of life than running her father’s general store.  Then, there’s Caroline, whose husband was killed in the Civil War.  She isn’t sure where to go from here with her life, until Garrett Cowlishaw comes into town.  She never thought she could love another again, but as she gets to know Garrett, she finds she’s having a change of heart. 

               

This was a great book.  I loved how each story was separate, but all three were tied together at the same time.  The characters were so likeable.  I found I was excited to keep reading to see what happened next. 

Reviewed by: Sarah Meyers

Connie Almony's At the Edge of a Dark Forest ~ Reviewed

At the Edge of a Dark Forest

By Connie Almony

Pages: 80

Release Date: February 17, 2014

Publisher: Createspace

ISBN: 978-1495452178

Back Cover:

Cole Harrison, a war veteran, wears his disfigurement like a barrier to those who might love him, shielding them from the ugliness inside. He agrees to try and potentially invest in, a prototype prosthetic with the goal of saving a hopeless man’s dreams. Carly Rose contracts to live with Cole and train him to use his new limbs, only to discover the darkness that wars against the man he could become. At the Edge of a Dark Forest is a modern-day retelling of Beauty and the Beast. Only it is not her love that will make him whole.

Review:

In an effort to help save her father’s company while bettering the life of amputees, Carly Rose moves into the lavish home of an angry, liquor guzzling war veteran. She understands post traumatic stress disorder, and though her understanding helps, she still finds it quite difficult to help a man who not only appears to not want her there, but who seems to take great pleasure in mocking her when the chance arises. If not for her love for and loyalty to her father, she might leave… except the hints of sorrow she sees in his eyes compel her to stay. But how can she help bent on self-destruction?

As Beauty and the Beast has always been one of my favorite fairy tales, I clamored to read this modern day telling of the story. I expected to enjoy it, but I must say, I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did. I found myself, on many nights, staying up much later than I should to read just one more chapter, then one more, then one more. Ms. Almony wrote with a depth and authenticity that gripped, flayed, and encouraged my heart—depending on the scene I was reading.

What struck me most was her skill at characterization. She did a masterful job with Cole, the gruff, wounded, yet tender hearted war veteran, revealing his personality through each piece of dialogue and flitting thought. His actions, word choices, and perceptions all pointed to a cohesive and dynamic individual I could easily visualize. Contrasted with the sweet, quiet, yet focused and determined Carly Rose, who was also masterfully crafted and revealed, Cole appeared all the more masculine and unique.

I was equally impressed with how Ms. Almony revealed Cole’s inner struggle as a former soldier who was now so dependent on others for even the most menial of tasks. I felt, it seemed, the entire spectrum of human emotions as through his experiences of being hopeful for increased independence, fearful of his inner demons, terrified of failure, terrified more of allowing hope to blossom only to have it shattered, his deep longing for love yet his distrust of it… Bravo, Ms. Almony! At the Edge of a Dark Forest is a brilliant story of love, hope, and deep emotional healing.

Reviewed by: Jennifer Slattery

Pam Hillman's Claiming Mariah ~ Reviewed

Claiming Mariah 
By Pam Hillman
Pages 425 
Binding Softcover
Release Date Dec 1, 2013
Publisher Tyndale House Publishers
ISBN 1414389752



Description
After her father's death, Mariah Malone sends a letter that will forever alter the lives of her family. When Slade Donovan, strong willed and eager for vengeance, shows up on her front porch, Mariah is not ready to hear his truths: her father's farm, the only home she's ever known, was bought with stolen gold. With Slade ready to collect his father's rightful claim and force Mariah and her family out on the streets, Mariah must turn to God for guidance. Though Mr. Frederick Cooper, a local landowner, promises to answer her financial woes if she agrees to be his bride, Mariah finds herself drawn instead to the angry young man demanding her home.With the ranch now under Slade's careful eye, he unearths more than he ever imagined as a devious plot of thievery, betrayal, and murder threatens the well-being of the ranch, endangering those who hold it dear. As the days dwindle until the rest of the Donovan clan arrives at the Lazy M ranch, Mariah and Slade must rise above the resentment of their fathers and see their true feelings before greed changes their futures forever.

Review:

Claiming Mariah is about a young woman named Mariah Malone.  After her father passes away, she sends a letter to an old acquaintance of her father’s, not realizing what would come of it.  When Slade Donovan shows up at Mariah’s door, she has no idea what she’s in for.  She is told that her father stole what belonged to Slade’s Father, and that, in fact, Mariah’s ranch actually belonged to the Donovan family.  Slade and his brother, Buck begin to take over, while Slade allows Mariah and her Grandmother to stay there until his mother and sisters come.  Mariah has to work hard to trust the Lord to work the situation out, while Slade is relying on his own strength to make things work.  While Slade and Mariah are struggling to get along, it is discovered that thievery and betrayal is about on the ranch.  Top this off with Mariah and Slade’s growing feelings for each other that they aren’t willing to admit, and you’ve got a great story!

I enjoyed this book.  I admired Mariah, who, after losing her father, has to deal with the fact that a stranger is coming to take her home, leaving her with nothing.  Yet she works hard at trusting the Lord through it all.  It just goes to show that God knows our circumstances and that He can work all things together for good.  The trusting part is the hard part, but it’s worth it.  

Reviewed by: Sarah Meyers

Karen Barnett's Out of the Ruins ~ Reviewed

OUT OF THE RUINS
Karen Barnett
Binding Softcover
Release Date Mar 1, 2014
Publisher Abingdon Press
Series Golden Gate Chronicles
Series Number 1
ISBN 1426780575




OverviewWhile her sister lies on her deathbed, Abby Fischer prays for a miracle. What Abby doesn't expect, however, is for God's answer to come in the form of the handsome Dr. Robert King, whose experimental treatment is risky at best. As they work together toward a cure, Abby's feelings for Robert become hopelessly entangled. Separated by the tragedy of the mighty San Francisco earthquake, their relationship suddenly takes a back seat to survival. With fires raging throughout the city, Abby fears for her life as she flees alone through burning streets. Where is God now? Will Robert find Abby, even as the world burns around them? Or has their love fallen with the ruins of the city?

Review:

Out of the Ruins revolves around Abby Fischer.  Life has been fine on her family’s orchard until her beloved sister Cecilia, is diagnosed with cancer.  Abby is determined she will beat it.  While Cecilia is trusting God for the outcome, Abby refuses, trusting rather in her ability to care for her, along with her cousin, Dr. Gerald Larkspur and his handsome partner, Dr. Robert King.  They have discovered new research regarding radiation as treatment for cancer.  The family temporarily moves to San Francisco for Cecilia’s treatments.  As the treatments progress, so do feelings between Abby and Robert.  However, when another tragedy strikes, the great San Francisco earthquake of 1906, Abby has no idea which way to turn.  She has spent so long relying on herself and denying God that she doesn’t know how to live any other way.  In the midst of the earthquake, she finds herself separated from her family and Robert, forcing her to deal with the fact that she is no self-sufficient, and just maybe, God has been waiting there for her all along.

                

I really liked this book a lot.  Abby’s character grew so much by the end of the book.  She spent so much time fighting God through so much of it, not understanding Cecilia’s childlike trust and faith in the Lord, making it look so easy to leave her life in His hands.  And Robert and Abby’s love story was fun to watch unfold as well.  Abby thought herself the plain one next to her sister, so it was fun to see her blossom under Robert’s attention and compliments. 

Reviewed by: Sarah Meyers

Kyle Idleman's Not a Fan ~ Reviewed

Not a Fan
Kyle Idleman
Paperback: 224 pages
Publisher: Zondervan; 5.2.2011 edition (June 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-0310331933

Description:

Are you a follower of Jesus? Don’t answer too quickly. In fact, you may want to read this book before you answer at all. Consider it a “Define the Relationship” conversation to determine exactly where you stand. You may indeed be a passionate, fully devoted follower of Jesus. Or, you may be just a fan who admires Jesus but isn’t ready to let him cramp your style. Then again, maybe you’re not into Jesus, period. In any case, don’t take the question—Are you a follower of Jesus?—lightly. Some people don’t know what they’ve said yes to and other people don’t realize what they’ve said no to, says Pastor Kyle Idleman. But Jesus is ready to clearly define the relationship he wants with his followers. Not a Fan calls you to consider the demands and rewards of being a true disciple. With frankness sprinkled with humor, Idleman invites you to live the way Jesus lived, love the way he loved, pray the way he prayed, and never give up living for the One who gave his all for you.

Review:

A great title for one of the most convicting books I've ever read on the "art" of Christian living. This topical book covers many aspects of the American Christian's walk. Because in reality American Christianity isn't exactly lining up with the early church. (Not the clothing/food/lack of travel but the belief, the commitment, the Christlikeness.)

Kyle Idleman handles this sticky wicket subject with self-deprecating humor and uncomfortably squirm-producing honesty. The fan vs follower outline sheds light on areas where we may think we are uber committed and rockin this Christianity thing but in reality we leave our guts and His glory out of the equation. Fans dress the part, they scream until they blow out their vocal chords, they will dress like a mascot and wear odd hats, but when it's all said and done, they don't leave their DNA on the field. Followers. Well... Idleman clearly points out the difference. Kind of like a joke I heard once, what's the difference between a cheese omelette and bacon? Commitment. 

You might not agree with all of Idleman's theology. But this is the kind of slap upside the head that every Christian should read. The reality is, the world has a laundry list of hypocriticism, sins and ugliness perpetuated by the "church," don't we who think we are Christ followers be willing to make sure we really are followers? 

Reviewed by: Kelly Klepfer

Cynthia Ruchti's All My Belongings ~ Reviewed

All My Belongings [Paperback]
By Cynthia Ruchti (Author)
Pages 320
Binding Softcover
Release Date May 6, 2014
Publisher Abingdon Press
ISBN 1426749724


Description
Jayne Dennagee has spent her life running from the doctor death legacy of her father. His Kervorkian-copycat methods of euthanasia ruined her childhood, covering it in shame. She won t let him steal her future, too. After changing her name to Becka, she assumes a new life and new job caring for the ailing mother of a handsome young businessman, Isaac Hughes.

Becka struggles to sort out her feelings for her new boss just as her patient passes away under unusual circumstances. Suddenly, her past catches up with her and the unnerving details of her heritage make Becka look like a murder suspect. Worse, all sense of home and all hope for love vanish.

Even if she could clear her name, a phone call from prison wraps a suffocating shroud around her heart. Her father is out and he needs her help. Can Becka open her new life to the man who has prematurely taken so many? Or will her father s legacy make it impossible to open her heart at all?

Review Blurb:

All My Belongings is another Ruchti home run! Becca's emotions are so spot-on. The hope revealed and the restoration of faith will have you reaching for a tissue. That's what I love about Cynthia Ruchti's books. She always makes me chuckle and cry. You can't get any better than that!

Reviewed by: Ane Mulligan 

President, Novel Rocket

Bonus Review: 

All My Belongings is about a young woman named Jayne. After growing up with parents who seemed to forget about her while trying to fight her mother's horrible illness, she struggles to find her purpose. When her mother tragically dies at her father's hand, she feels she must report him, but can't face the consequences for doing what she thought was the right thing. After losing her mother and seeing her father put in prison, she decides to change her name to Becca. At the urging of a close friend, she moves to California to care for her friend's ailing sister, Aurelia. Upon arriving, she meets Aurelia's handsome son, Isaac Hughes. Becca moves in with Aurelia, and comes to care for both her and Isaac a great deal, however, the lies that keep building up as she tries to hide her past and create a new one bother her more with each passing day. As Becca and Isaac's relationship progresses, Aurelia suddenly passes away under unusual circumstances, and Becca finds that the past she has been trying to hide begins to catch up with her.
This was a great book. I was especially drawn to it because the elderly woman Becca cared for, Aurelia, had Alzheimer’s. My Grandma also has Alzheimer's, so I was able to relate to the story pretty well. Becca's care for her was just wonderful, and my heart went out for her when she became a suspect in her passing. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

Reviewed by: Sarah Meyers

Mary Ellis's A Little Bit of Charm ~ Reviewed

Little Bit Of Charm (New Beginnings V3) 
By Mary Ellis (Author)
Pages 343 
Binding Softcover
Release Date Sep 1, 2013
Publisher Harvest House Publishers
Series New Beginnings
Series Number 3
ISBN 0736938680




Description

A Little Bit of Charm, the third book in bestselling author Mary Ellis's New Beginnings series, is about fresh starts...and how faith in God and His perfect plans provide the peace and joy all long for.

After the death of her parents and then watching both of her older sisters find happiness in homes of their own with husbands who adore them, Rachel King yearns for a new beginning. Her cousin Sarah lives near a thoroughbred stable in Kentucky, and working around beautiful horses is Rachel's dream come true. She leaves Lancaster County to find a job at Twelve Elms Stables and believes God has answered her prayers.

And then she meets Jake, an attractive and charming Englisch man. At first she refuses to go out with him, but he eventually convinces her to give him a chance. When Amish men who also wish to date Rachel start encountering strange mishaps, she wonders if Jake is really who he seems to be.

What does a young woman do when her heart is pulled in two directions?

Review

  

A Little Bit of Charm is about a young Amish woman named Rachel.  After her two older sisters marry and build new lives far from the home they grew up on, Sarah takes a chance and moves to Kentucky with her now Mennonite cousins, Sarah and Isaac, to live with them on their chicken farm, and to hopefully find a job somewhere working with horses.  Fortunately, Twelve Elms stables is just down the road, and they are looking for extra hired help with tours and horse training.  It’s the perfect job for Rachel, though her cousin feels she is compromising her faith by dressing as an Englischer while working.  In the meantime, she meets the owners’ son, Jake, who is focused on doing whatever it takes to take a young cold to the Kentucky Derby, even if it means putting the family into a debt that could be devastating.  Not surprisingly, Jake and Rachel develop an attraction for each other, but they each have their own personal battles to fight.  Rachel is struggling as she has feelings for Jake, but knows she would have to leave her Amish lifestyle to be with him. Jake is taking it personally that Rachel is distancing herself, but overlooking his own selfishness and distrust in God.      

                

This was a really fun story, and I honestly didn’t know what was going to happen there for a while. Rachel was so devoted to her faith and steadfast in the fact that she wouldn’t “jump the fence.”  Yet I know Jake wouldn’t become Amish.  I also found myself surprised that all Rachel ever saw in Jake was his kind, compassionate side.  He was, at that, however, his total distrust in God and need to be in control all of the time must not have been something he showed when Rachel was around, because she didn’t pick up on it at all.  I found that interesting.  It was a good story, though!

Reviewed by: Sarah Meyers

Sandra Bricker's Rise and Shine ~ Reviewed

Rise and Shine: A Contemporary Fairy Tale [Paperback]
By Sandra D. Bricker (Author)
Pages 256
Binding Softcover
Release Date May 1, 2014
Edition New
ISBN 0802406300

Description

Shannon Malone thought she'd found her happy ending when she married Edmund Ridgeway, but a diving accident on their honeymoon left her in a coma. Waking up to the news that she's thirty years old would have been daunting enough . . . but she also learns that Edmund has lost his interim battle with cancer and the world has marched on without her. Her gorgeous doctor, Daniel Petros, seems to know everything about her and becomes Shannon's tour guide into a whole new world of madness where reality television has taken over the planet and everyone's life appears to revolve around a tiny screen on their cell phones

As Shannon struggles to navigate through the changes-both in the world "and" in her-she also must discern real memories from imagined ones. Did she really ever wear capris pants and entertain in her living room, or was that Laura Petrie from her favorite classic TV show? And where is her beloved dog, Freeway? Oh, wait That was Jonathan and Jennifer Hart's dog, not hers.

Shannon's three elderly aunts flit through her life in true "Sleeping Beauty" style with her well-being always a priority. And Edmund's sister Millicent descends like the Evil Queen she is, trying to extract Shannon from any claim on the Ridgeway family fortune. When a tornado moves through town and Shannon is knocked unconscious, will Daniel's kiss awaken her once and for all?

Review:

Sandra D Bricker has hit a home run in Rise and Shine! She portrays Shannon so well as a coma patient, who wakes up after 10 years. Bricker has turned a fairy tale into the believable. I completely suspended any disbelief and have loved every minute. I was totally invested in the characters. A delightful story written by the Queen of Romantic Comedy! Novel Rocket and I give it our highest recommendation. Rise and Shine is a 5-star read and going on my Top Ten for 2014 list.

Reviewed by: Ane Mulligan

Bonus Review:

Rise and Shine is a charming beach read. A modern day fairy tale is interspersed into each section of the story as the story of Shannon unfolds. And what a story it is. Shannon's story starts with a honeymoon and ends over ten years later when she awakens from a coma. 

As heavy as the subject matter could be, Bricker deftly adds plenty of humor. Shannon is a fan of the Dick Van Dyke show and the characters factor into the story several times. A furry four-legged friend and a wicked witch of the hill add more sweet and spice. 

Reviewed by: Kelly Klepfer

Christine Lindsay's Londonderry Dreaming ~ Reviewed

Londonderry Dreaming

By Christine Lindsay

Published by White Rose Publishing/Pelican Book Group

ISBN#978-1-61116-345-2

Pages

ABOUT BOOK: Acclaimed New York artist, Naomi Boyd, and music therapist, Keith Wilson, loved one another five years ago, until her grandfather with his influence over Naomi separated them.

That root of bitterness keeps them apart until a letter from Keith’s grandmother, Ruth, draws Naomi to Londonderry to find she’s too late. Ruth has passed on. After the death of his beloved grandmother, Keith has also come to Londonderry only to open the door to his past…Naomi...beautiful as ever, the girl who broke his heart.

A mysterious painting in Ruth’s attic brings up questions about their grandparents’ entwined past and their own broken romance. But more comfortable with the unspoken languages of art and music, Naomi and Keith find it difficult to share their old hurts and true feelings.

Will the majestic coastline of Northern Ireland inspire them to speak the words to bring peace to their grandparents’ memory and to rekindle love?

REVIEW: I enjoyed Christine Lindsay’s debut novel so much I was elated to receive a review copy of her latest novella sized book titled Londonderry Dreaming.

I instantly connected with Keith who flew to from American to attend his grandmother’s funeral and clean things up around her house with his siblings.  Ruth Williams (his grandmother) left him specific instructions as to who was to get what after she passed. He wasn’t there very long when there’s a knock at the door. To his surprise it’s Naomi, an old girlfriend of his. It’s been years since they’ve spoken. Naomi said she got a letter from Ruth asking her to visit. She had no idea she had passed and felt awkward being there, “I hate to intrude as such a time.”

“Don’t think of that….It’s good to see you…and know that you’ve done well. I frequently see your name mentioned in prestigious magazines.” A smile came though Keith’s voice, “Even saw you interviewed on T.V. once. I’m glad for you. You made the right decision to not marry me.”

“Naomi remembered how she broke his heart and how she lost at love. Why had Ruth Wilson brought her here now?” Keith handed Naomi the note that Ruth wrote for Naomi. It told of a painting she wanted her to have that was stored in the attic.

Keith and Naomi aren’t prepared to see who was in this painting. It was Ruth, Keith’s grandmother. Boy was she a beauty. He’d never seen this picture before. Why was it hiding in the attic? Next to the painting was a box of letters. Keith started to read them and told Naomi the content. She was half listening because she knew what her Grandfather’s art work looked like. After her inspection she determined that he painted the picture. How did that happen? He hated Ruth and the whole Wilson clan. Keith and Naomi learned though the letters that Ruth drove an ambulance during the war and Keith’s Granda served with General Montgomery in Europe. “Your grandfather served in the war too, didn’t he Naomi? So how did they all know each other? And why hide this painting all these years?” They both wanted answers.

Sandra, Keith’s sister says, “Ruth wasn’t always our grandmother. She as a woman, for goodness sake. Did ye thank you were hatched?”

Keith replies, “It just makes me wonder what else I don’t’ know about Gran or Granda, for that matter.”

“ and I wonder, “Noami said, “why my grandfather had such a long-standing dislike of the entire Wilson family.. She thinks to herself, “Was I a fool to let Keith Go? Maybe this was an opportunity for the two of them to put things right for the sake of their grandparents, whatever the offense had been…”I’m sure we’ll find the answers soon and bring peace to the situation.”

Keith couldn’t help but think there might be more too and felt comfortable encouraging her, “Art is a calling, as well as a business. It wasn’t your grandfather who gave you that calling.”

Naomi replied, “God’s proven what He wants to do though my life…at least as far as my art is concerned.”

Old feelings start to surface. Could they give each other another chance? Maybe solving the mystery in the attic would give both of their families peace and a little more.

I enjoyed Christine’s characters Keith and Naomi and was hooked in by this mystery! Enjoyed reading how they put all the pieces together. I highly recommend this delightful story and this authors other books! You won’t be disappointed.

Reviewed by: Nora St Laurent

TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org

Finding Hope Through Fiction Blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com

Jessica Dotta's Mark of Distinction ~ Reviewed

Mark Of Distinction (Price Of Privilege V2)
By Jessica Dotta (Author)
Binding Softcover
Release Date May 1, 2014
Publisher Tyndale House Publishers
Series Price Of Privilege Trilogy
Series Number 2
ISBN 1414375565




Description

London is said to be the glittering jewel of society, a world unto itself--but to Julia Elliston it is a city of shadows. Her life is swiftly dissolving into scandal. And in Victorian society, even a whisper of scandal--substantiated or not--can be the death of a young woman's reputation.Now under the watchful eye of Lord Roy Pierson, one of most influential men in England, Julia begrudgingly accepts his protection. But Chance Macy's power is far-reaching as well, and he is eager to assert his claim over her.Thrust into society as the Emerald Heiress, Julia is the toast of London, a celebrated curiosity. But in reality she's trapped between the clutches of two powerful men. Aided only by a gentleman whose intentions she prays she can trust, Julia must finally take control of her own fate--but outwitting one's foe rarely goes according to plan.

REVIEW: 

I’m thankful for the review copy of book two in the Price of Privilege series. This story starts where the first book Born of Persuasion ends. **Spoiler** at the end of the first book Julia learns that Lord Roy Pierson was her guardian and biological father. So when Julie flees for her life with Edward they run to Lord Roy Pierson’s house for protection from Mr. Macy.  In this novel readers get to see (along with Julia) Macy dripping with revenge and learn how well he is at manipulating situations to perform his evil deeds.

Lord Roy Pierson’s plan is to present Julia to polite society in a coming out party. They will explain she is the daughter he sent away to finishing school, that’s why no one has heard of her.  Soon after she will become engaged to Lord Isaac Dalry. This will help both Lord Pierson and Lord Dalry who have aspirations to run for a political office.

Julia is not excited about her options but agrees to this scheme and studies hard to learn society’s rules and how to act like a lady in order to become the Emerald Heiress.  All the while hoping her father would want get to know her and like her as his daughter. But Lord Pierson is a gruff and stern man who’s all about business.

There was a short window to learn all the rules of society and how to walk and breathe in her new fancy clothes. The reader wonders as does Julia could she really pull this off? Could she learn everything in a few months and pretend to be happy on top of it? Tall order but Lord Isaac Dalry has her back in social situations. This part reminded me of the movie Princess Diaries where the character Julie Andrews played tries to teach Mia Thermopolis, (played by Ann Hathaway) how to be a princess that would eventually become Queen of Genovia. Fun, Grin!

Mr. Macy made it known he could snatch and harm Julia at any time which made everyone nervous. All the players in this game knew that in “Victorian society, even a whisper of scandal-substantiated or not-can be the death of a young woman’s reputation.” This mattered to Julia because of her love for Edward and to Lord Dalry because of his political ambitions.

Soon Julia becomes the toast of London, and everyone is anxious to get to know her. She feels trapped in a power struggle between two men. How could she get out of their clutches and take back control of her own life. She was learning to rely on God for His help there was no one else to turn to.

I felt the tension between Julia and her father as he tried to control everything she did in order to keep her safe and to make their plan work. Mr. Macy was on the prowl to get Julia.  He made sure she and her father knew he was always near. I agonized along with Julia in her challenge but quite honestly she let her emotions run her actions and made some crazy choices in book one and made some more in book two. I just wanted to say to her, “Stop and think about your next move BEFORE you make it.” Grin!

I like how this author starts off the novel in the future much like the movie Titanic did. Julia says, “I’m an old woman now. I had no idea my story would cause such an uproar…long life has its advantages. Your perception grows clearer, even if your sight dims…yet the world thinks what it will. I am far too old to care, anyway…It all began, of course, with my father (Lord Roy Pierson)… 

I liked that Jessica writes this series in the first person perspective. It made things more personal. You feel as if you are walking in the characters shoes. “Julia shares her tale of misfortune, mistakes and misery. She was caught in a snare of deception and passion as a greater love sought to save her to Him. Who could she turn to for answers who could she trust with her heart and life?” 

Love this beginning. Julia then drops readers back in time for the rest of her story just like the Titanicmovie did. “I want to believe that my life would be rectified-that I would find my way back to Edward. But as each day passed, that hope became a glittering candle, sitting in a draft.” 

I was caught up in the mannerisms, apparel, and lifestyle of the privileged and decorum of the 1800’s. It’s a fun and fascinating peek at society, rolled together with many suspenseful moments that kept your heart pounding and my fingers turning pages reading about believable characters I found myself rooting for. 

I highly recommend this novel as a great read and a book club pick. There is so much to enjoy and talk about. I can’t wait to see where this author takes readers in the next book called Price of Privilege. You will too. 

Reviewed by: Nora :o)

TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org

Finding Hope Through Fiction blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com

Bonus Review:

Jessica Dotta’s second book in the Price of Privilege series is one of those books you want to curl up with, closing the world out. I was fortunate enough to have a virus that kept me home from my day job a few days. Oh, the tale of Julia and the men in her life kept me company and my mind of my symptoms.

I cannot wait patiently for the final installment. Oh, the unresolved questions, the unscratched itches, the unsatisfied curiosity. How does Julia’s tale resolve? Dotta is an artist. Her word art is lush and rich. Scents, sounds, sights come to life as Julia discovers exactly what is required of her in a society that is almost as foreign to her as it is to the reader.

Mark of Distinction is full of frills and flourish as Julia is introduced into society and attempts to take her place in an environment that is wary and watchful, waiting to find a juicy morsel to grasp hold of and send her and her father to societal ruination. Scandal is a breath away, lurking, hiding, waiting. And Julia is fully aware of just how scandalous her story is.

Must have final book soon….

Reviewed by: Kelly Klepfer

Bonus Review: 

Beautiful writing pulls you into Jessica Dotta's sophomore novel, Mark of Distinction. Even better than her debut novel, intrigue, danger, and hopelessness dog Julia's every move. I wondered how it would resolve, and a couple of the twists made me gasp with surprise. Don't miss this wonderful story. Novel Rocket and I give it our highest recommendation. It made my Top Ten of 2014 List.

Reviewed by: Ane Mulligan, president

Novel Rocket

www.novelrocket.com