Wednesday, December 18, 2019

Amish Country Amnesia by Meghan Carver - Review




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His past is a mystery to everyone...
except for the men trying to kill him

When a snowmobile accident leaves a man injured and with no memory, Amish widow Sarah Burkholder and her young daughter rescue him. Even as Sarah's feelings for him grow, they discover unknown assailants are after him---and Sarah and her little girl for helping him. But if he can remember who he is, he might just save all their lives.


MY  REVIEW
It took me a short time to really get into this book but then the action moved right along. There is a twist to the story and the amnesia doesn't help, but will it help the injured man. A good book, grab a copy and enjoy.

Thursday, December 12, 2019

No Safe Place by Sherri Shackelford - Review




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 He lives by the law.
She's running for her life.

After forensic accountant Beth Greenwood uncovers a money-laundering scheme tying her company to the organization that murdered her mentor, she knows she needs to go into hiding. With ruthless killers in pursuit, she's forced to rely on homeland security agent Corbin Ross's protection--even as his investigation suggests Beth is complicit in embezzlement. Can their uneasy alliance develop into something deeper--and keep them alive?


MY  REVIEW

The author pulls you in almost immediately, and keeps things moving along. I read this quickly as I wanted to find out how Beth and Corbin were being tracked and would Beth be able to prove that she was a whistle-blower and not involved in the crime.

Wednesday, December 11, 2019

The Wish by Patricia Davids - Review of the first book in The Amish of Cedar Grove (also listed as 'Amish Cedar Grove' series some places)




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Second chances come at the most unexpected times...

Widow Laura Beth Yoder longs for a family of her own. So much so that she's preparing to leave the sleepy Amish town she calls home to find love. But a terrible storm washes out the creek, forcing her to wade in and save the life of an English man and his adorable infant son. As they recover at the farm, the baby brings sunshine and joy, while the handsome outsider is filled with shadows...and secrets.

Joshua King owes his life and his son's to Laura Beth. Still, lingering at her farm is out of the question. He must fulfill a promise he made to his estranged wife on her deathbed: to deliver their son to his Amish in-laws. With his dark past, Joshua has no other choice. But his plans never took this sweet and surprising Amish widow into account. She just might be his second chance at happiness...and love.


MY  REVIEW
My oh my, MEN! Why are they so stubborn and bull headed?!?! You will be so touched by this story, yet so upset with Joshua, you will want to give him a piece of your mind. Another winning book by this great writer, grab a copy and ENJOY!!

Wednesday, December 4, 2019

Kansas Crossroads Boxed Set #1, includes A New Beginning, A Free Heart, The Dark and the Dawn, A Clean Slate & A Clear Hope by Amelia C Adams - Review of the first five stories in this series




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(copied from Amazon.com)

A New Beginning:

Handsome heir Adam Brody sees nothing but possibilities in the sprawling old building he's just purchased. He will transform it into a hotel to meet the needs of those traveling by railroad.

Left a widow with a small daughter, Elizabeth Caldwell must find work. When she sees an advertisement inquiring about young women to work in a hotel, she decides to apply. However, the hotel owner specifically requested single ladies, so she must hide her former marital status, and her child, if she wishes to get the job.

With cloudy pasts to overcome, both Adam and Elizabeth want to believe in a bright future. Will they find the strength they need in each other, or will their differences keep them apart?

A Free Heart:

Harriet Martin left her plantation home in Atlanta and came to Kansas with one thought on her
mind--finding the mother of the man she was supposed to marry. She will never find peace or be able to move or until she knows that Jane, a former slave, is safe and happy.

Tom White wants nothing more than to be his own man--traveling where he will, taking whatever jobs come his way, moving on again when he gets feeling itchy. Now working at the Brody Hotel, he starts to put down roots for the first time since he was forced to leave his home at the age of fifteen.

Both stubborn, independent, and free spirited, Harriet and Tom have more in common than either one wants to admit. By the same twist of fate, they each have exactly what the other needs--if destiny will
allow them to find the happiness they've been seeking.

The Dark and the Dawn:

Jeanette Peterson and her sister, Abigail, are running from a dark past and hiding from an ever darker future. When they happen upon the Brody Hotel in Topeka, Kansas, they're given a chance at a whole new life, one where they can choose who they want to become. When Jeanette assists the town doctor with a difficult case, she realizes she has a calling and a passion to become a nurse.

Dr Phillip Wayment is a set-in-his-ways bachelor, more than happy to run his medical practice alone. When Jeanette asks him to mentor her, he's hesitant at first, not wanting some woman underfoot. But as they work together, he comes to realize how valuable she is to his career. . . and to him. Will the secrets from her past ruin what they've built?

A Clean Slate:

Olivia Markham is a socialite from New York City who came to Topeka with one goal--to marry Adam Brody. But Adam has married someone else, and Olivia has nowhere to go. Taking a job at the Brody Hotel requires her to swallow her pride, but sh has no choice in the matter. Now she must learn to wear cotton dresses--cotton, when she should be wearing silk.

Pastor Robert Osbourne has taken of the huge responsibility of overseeing the spiritual welfare of a large congregation, and at times, he feels overwhelmed. He preaches on Sunday morning, but by Monday night, everything he's said has been diluted by the alcohol at the saloons. He wonders if he's doing any good for the people at all.

Olivia doesn't see a need for God in her life. Robert can't imagine living without Him. Can they find a way to overlook their differences and realize that love doesn't have to make sense to be real?

A Clear Hope:

As a daughter, an older sister, and not a hotel waitress, Abigail Peterson is used to taking care of everyone around her. When a stranger collapses on the train platform and is brought to the Brody Hotel to recover, Abigail steps in to nurse her back to health.

Deputy Marshal Gabriel Hanks has seen a lot of violence, and he works every day to fight it. A man has been murdered, and it's Gabe's job to prosecute the guilty. When that quest puts him at odds with the girl he's growing to love, he has to choose between justice, mercy, and his heart.


MY  REVIEW
I found each one of these short stories very good. The author pulls you back into that time period and clearly shows the emotions and hard times each main character has gone through.

Monday, November 18, 2019

A Distance Too Grand by Regina Scott - Review of the first book in the American Wonders Collection series




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Meg Pero has been assisting her photographer father since she was big enough to carry his equipment, so when he dies she is determined to take over his profession--starting with fulfilling the contract he signed to serve on an Army survey of the North Rim of the Grand Canyon in 1871. What she doesn't realize is that the leader of the expedition is none other than the man she once refused to marry.

Captain Ben Coleridge would like nothing more than to leave without the woman sho broke his heart. He can't afford to be distracted during this survey, which is a screen for another, more personal mission, one he cannot share with any member of his team.

As dangers arise from all sides--and even from within--Meg and Ben must work together to stay alive, fulfill their duties, and, just maybe, rekindle a love that neither had completely left behind.


MY  REVIEW
This book takes you on an adventure, it starts out as a great experience and with a lot of beautiful sites. Then things change and some are seeing things, looking over their shoulder and soon trying to figure out what is going on. A great read and the author does a great job of letting you see things through the explorers eyes.

I received this book free from the author. I was not required to write a review but have chosen to do so sharing my hones opinion of this book.

Monday, September 23, 2019

This Healing Journey by Misty M Beller - Review of the seventh book in the Heart of the Mountains series




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(copied from Amazon.com)

She's never left her home in the mountain wilderness of the Canadian Rockies--until now. Little did she realize this journey would change her life in every way.

The mountain wilderness of her family's  home in the Canadian Rockies is all Hannah Grant has ever known. Now at the age of twenty-four, she's on a journey to help her father to find the son he gave up for adoption three decades before. This is Hannah's chance to discover the life she's missed out on so far--and hopefully find a husband along the way. But she certainly doesn't plan to fall for the first man she meets.

Years in the cavalry provided Nathaniel Peak with more than his share of violence and adventure. That life behind him, he wants nothing more than to settle down in the beautiful Montana mountains and raise his own stock--in peace. The last thing he expects is the savagely wounded child who shows up in his barn. Nor the woman he comes to rely on for the girl's care.

Hannah can't help but fall in love with the brave Indian child who so desperately needs her, but no matter what, she can't let herself fall for the man whose past choices go against everything she believes in. As the situation grows worse, Hannah and Nathaniel are forced to make a heart-rending decision to save the girl's life. Little do they imagine, the choice they make could spell disaster for them all.


MY  REVIEW
It is with great sadness I am writing this review as I hate to see this series end. It has been so enjoyable I can't think about not reading on. This is a series that needs to be read in order and this last book brings characters back from some of the earlier ones. I see Misty has one series that I have not read yet, three books, and is starting a new series which the first book should be out in October. I really encourage you to take a chance on Misty's books, you will want to read them all too!

This Daring Journey by Misty M Beller - Review of the sixth book in the Heart of the Mountains series




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(copied form Amazon.com)
The only hope to keep her newborn baby alive is to reach the safety of her Indian people... This mountain man is the last person she should trust to get her there.

As a half-Indian raised among her Peigan tribe, Moriah Clark knows better than to trust white people. The tragedy that resulted in her birth is proof enough. But when her trusted grandfather marries her to a white man, she has no choice but to obey and hope this new life isn't her downfall. Her white husband turns out to be a decent sort, but his unexpected death left her to birth a newborn baby among hostile mountain men. She wants nothing more than to retreat to the safe haven of her tribal upbringing. When a mysterious frontiersman arrives on her doorstep seeking her deceased husband, his offer to escort her and the babe to her people seems like the opportunity she's been praying to find. But can she trust him?

Samuel Grant has been sent to retrieve Henry Clark for his sister's wedding, but the sight that greets him at the little cabin in the woods is not what he expected. Not only has the man died, but Henry's wife is fighting off an aggressive gang of men at gunpoint--while trying to conceal a newborn. He can't leave the pair unattended, so helping her travel into the mountain country to reach her family seems like the only option. If he can win her trust, that is.

Such a grueling journey with a three-week-old baby will be risky, but the challenges that arise test them far more than either expected. When a devastating surprise increases the danger ten-fold, Moriah focuses all her efforts on keeping her newborn daughter alive. Maybe that's why she doesn't realize how much of her heart belongs to the mountain man--until it's too late.


MY  REVIEW
Yet another great story in the continuing series, a series you 'must' read in order and I promise will fall in love with.

This Homeward Journey by Misty M Beller - Review of the fifth book in the Heart of the Mountains series



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(copied from Amazon.com)
She's desperate for a new life in the Canadian mountains.... He's the last person she should trust to get her there.

After he husband's death, Rachel Gray is finally free from the turmoil his addictions caused. She wants nothing more than a new life with her 12-year-old son. If she can reach her brother in the wilderness of the Canadian territories,, they'll have help to start over in peace. She knows better than to put her life in the hands of another man, but she never expected the Montana mountains to be so treacherous. When two brothers invite her to join their small group traveling to the same area, she refuses. After she and her son narrowly escape a bear attack, she's forced to admit they need the safety of numbers in this untamed land. If the men prove dangerous, she can always leave with her son and strike out alone again.

Seth Grant has made some bad choices in his life, but God healed him from the addiction that mired him in his sins. Now, he's determined to live the life God called him to, starting with a journey northward to see the Canadian mountain both his brother and sister have fallen in love with. When he discovers the woman and boy who plan to travel the same mountain trail, he can't fathom why she refuses to join in the safety of their larger group. Though her decision seems unwise, he has no other choice but to pray God provides her protection.

Despite Rachel's best efforts, she can't seem to fight her attraction to the Seth - until a secret from his past proves he's not at all the man she thought. When a new peril threatens her son's life, she must choose between trusting in what she can control, or the man who her heart says is trustworthy, no matter his previous sins. The path she chooses just may determine whether she can step into the new life God has in store for them all.


MY  REVIEW
This series has been so interesting and the strength of Rachel does not fail to amaze, thank  you Misty for writing such wonderful books!

Monday, August 19, 2019

Amish Outsider by Marta Perry - Review of the first book in the River Haven series



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The Amish of River Haven offer sanctuary and solace...even to those with a dangerous past.

In the wake of his estranged wife's murder, widower Michael Forster returns to the Amish community he'd left as a teen. He wants a fresh start for himself and his daughter, Allie, away from those who still believe he's guilty. In River Haven, a quieter life seems possible. If only Allie's Amish schoolteacher, Catherine Brandt, was easier to ignore.

A problem solver by nature, Cathy can tell Allie's withdrawn demeanor isn't due to shyness. But getting through to Allie also means breaching her father's hardened defenses. What starts as persistence soon grows into an attraction neither Cathy nor Michael saw coming. When the past suddenly threatens both his daughter and the woman he loves, Michael must risk everything to save them.



MY  REVIEW
I haven't read one of Marta's books in a while and now I'm reminded of how much I enjoy her writing. This is a must read if you like Amish, mystery, loyalty or faith. Oh yeah it's all there, Michael might not realize it but it is!

The Love Knot by Karen Witemeyer - Review of a novella (listed as 2.5 in the series) in the Ladies of Harper's Station series



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(copied from Amazon.com)

Claire Nevin identifies herself in many ways: Irish immigrant, apprentice healer, and most importantly, sister. When her troubled sibling sends her an unexpected package by rail, the gift and the man who delivers it threaten to redefine Claire's life once again. Fighting to hold on to all she's built, will she lose what matters most?


MY  REVIEW
Karen did a great job of telling Claire's story, have you ever jumped to a conclusion about a person who made one mistake that devastates you, did you end up making a mistake by not listening and forgiving. How would this unexpected package affect you, read the story and see if you would choose what Claire did. I think this is only available for the Kindle but worth the money and time to read.

Tuesday, August 13, 2019

Heart on the Line by Karen Witemeyer - Review of the second book in the Ladies of Harper's Station series




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When Danger Arrives, It's More Than Just Her Heart on the Line

Grace Miller is tired of hiding. She hungers for a normal life, perhaps even a suitor like two of her friends in Harper's Station have found. But when the man she believes responsible for her father's death discovers her whereabouts, survival takes priority.

Amos Bledsoe prefers bicycles to horses and private conversations over the telegraph wire to social gatherings with young ladies who see him as nothing more than an oddity. His fellow telegrapher, the mysterious Miss G, has been the ideal companion. For months, their friendship---dare he believe, courtship?---over the wire has fed his hope that he has finally found the woman God intends for him. However, when he intercepts an ominous message and discovers her life is in peril, Amos must shed the cocoon of his quiet nature to become the hero Grace requires


MY  REVIEW
How do you know if a man is who he says he is if you've never seen him, by listening to him tap on his vest button in Morse code of course. Well, that works for one of the strangers in town anyway. Yep, you will have to grab a copy of this book to see what this is all about. Another great book from Karen!!

Sunday, August 4, 2019

Worth the Wait by Karen Witemeyer - Review of a novella (listed as 1.5) in the Ladies of Harper's Station series




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(copied from Amazon.com)

Benjamin Porter is one of only two men allowed inside the women's colony of Harper's Station, Texas. A freighter by trade, he works closely with local shopkeeper, Victoria Adams, to transport the colony's goods to market. But it is more than profit that keeps him coming back. He's fallen hard for the shopkeeper and her son. Tori is brave, beautiful, and a savvy entrepreneur--the ideal partner not only for his business but for his life. Too bad she's under the impression that a man, any man, is the last thing she needs.

Despite Ben's consistent kindness, Tori continues to hold him at a distance. His towering height and muscular frame, while attractive, are also dangerous. And she's faced dangerous men in the past and vowed never again.

After Ben convinces Tori to partner with him in a new venture, delivering goods to area farms and ranches, he finally has a chance to woo her in earnest. But when an accident derails his plans, what once was a chance at love may be lost forever.


MY  REVIEW
Karen is on of my favorite authors and she did not fail me here. I have seen these 'half' series books, I don't know what they are officially labeled, but this series has two, they are novellas in between the novels which makes for a quick read. I think this is a series that needs to be read in order, I think you will be glad you did.

This Courageous Journey by Misty M Beller - Review of the fourth book in the Heart of the Mountains series




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(copied from Amazon.com)

A Christian Historical Romance Novel

As the fifth daughter in a family of nine, Noelle Grant spent her life striving to be unique. Her love of telling stories helps define her goal--to be known around the country as one of the top news correspondents of her time. And what better way to uncover sensational tales than to travel through the mountain wilderness to visit her brother? The trip comes together perfectly as she journeys with family friends who will be settling in the same area. Her fist inkling that things may not be as perfect as she'd imagined shows up in the form of the mountain man hired as their guide for the final leg of the journey.

When Daniel Abrams agrees to guide the small group of easterners along his usual route northward to the Canadian mountains, his gut tells him he's making a terrible decision. But if he doesn't take them who will? The crew's leader refuses to consider turning back. As they start out, Daniel can't help but notice the woman traveling under the care of her friends. Though she appears too genteel to last long in these mountains, she soon reveals a strength that draws him more than he should allow.

When the dangers of this wilderness become more than the group bargained for, Noelle must choose to delay her trip northward or proceed alone with the man she's come to trust against all reason. She never dreams her decision will place her--and the man she loves--in a situation more hazardous than any story her imagination could conjure.


MY  REVIEW
This is another great story about traveling the wilderness with the faith to get you through the many set backs. rough terrain and determination to keep moving. Like they say 'Faith can move mountains'. Another winner for Misty, so far there are seven books in the series, I have now read four and enjoyed each one!

Monday, June 24, 2019

Never Marry a Marquess by Regina Scott - Review of the sixth book in the Fortune's Brides series




BACK  OF  THE  BOOK  REVIEW
(copied from Amazon.com)
Shy Ivy Bateman has always felt more comfortable behind the scenes than front and center. She is happiest caring for her family and baking sweet treats. She certainly never expected the wealthy Marquess of Kendall to propose marriage, especially a marriage of convenience. It seems his baby daughter needs a mother, and Ivy cannot deny the attraction of the role, or the attraction she feels for the handsome marquess.

Kendall had asked MIss Thorn of the Fortune Employment Agency to find him a particular sort of lady. His heart went to the grave with his first wife. Now, all he cares about is ensuring his frail daughter doesn't follow it. Installing Ivy Bateman as his next marchioness will not disrupt his life or make him question his love for his dead wife. But as he comes to appreciate Ivy's sweet nature, he begins to wonder about their future. When an old enemy strikes at Miss Thorn and all her ladies, a grieving lord and a shy lady must work together to save the day. In doing so, they might discover that love, and a good cinnamon but, can heal all wounds.

Sequel to Never Kneel to a Knight. Fortune's Brides: Only a matchmaking cat can hunt true love.


MY  REVIEW
I think this may be my favorite book in this series. What a beautiful story! This series should be read in order, it is possible not to but you will enjoy it much more it you do read it in order. Amazing job on this on Regina.

I received this e-book free from the author. I was not required to write a review but have chosen to do so sharing my hones opinion of this book.

Sunday, June 23, 2019

Premeditated Peppermint by Amanda Flower - Review of the third book in the Amish Candy Shop Mystery series



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Someone's sweet on revenge . . .
Christmas is Bailey King's favorite time of year. For her first Yuletide in Harvest, Ohio, the former big-city chocolatier is recreating a cherished holiday treat:  peppermint combined with molten white chocolate. But her sugar high plummets when her former boyfriend walks into the candy shop she now runs with her Amish grandmother. New York celebrity chef Eric Sharp and his TV crew have arrived to film an authentic Amish Christmas. Bailey's not about to let her beloved town---and Swissmen Sweets---be turned into a sound bite. Unfortunately, she gets more publicity than she bargained for when Eirc's executive producer is found strangled to death---and Eric's the prime suspect.

With Bailey's sheriff deputy boyfriend out to prove Eric's guilt, her bad-boy ex tries to sweet-talk her into helping him clear his namd . . . and rekindle their romance to boost ratings for his show. Now, between a surplus of suspects and a victim who wasn't who she seemed, Bailey's edging dangerously close to a killer who isn't looking to bring joy to the world---or to Bailey---this deadly Noel . . .


MY  REVIEW
Another tasty book from Amanda and lots of fudge mentioned so get your willpower in gear before reading, so you can resist any sweets within reach, lol.

Saturday, June 8, 2019

Lethal Licorice by Amanda Flower - Review of the second book in the Amish Candy Shop Mystery series




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Too many sweets spoil the murder . . .

Harvest, Ohio, is a long way from New York City, where Bailey King left a coveted job as a head chocolatier to take over Swissmen Sweets, her Amish grandparents' candy shop. Now, while caring for her recently widowed grandmother, she plans to honor her grandfather's memory by entering the annual Amish Confectionery Competition. But between lavender blueberry fudge and chocolate cherry ganache truffles, Bailey may have bitten off more than she can chew when the search for a missing pot-bellied pig turns up a body suffering from sugar overload--the fatal kind . . .

A candy maker from a neighboring town who wanted Englischer Bailey disqualified for being an outsider, Josephine Weaver died from an allergy to an essential licorice ingredient. The suspects include: Josephine's niece, a young woman going through her rumspringa, or running around time, and Bailey herself. Now it falls to Bailey, who's sweet on the local sheriff's deputy, to clear their names and entice a killer with a cast-iron stomach for cold-blooded murder . . .

Recipe Included!


MY  REVIEW
This book will make you hungry if you love sweets! If only the murder of one of the candy makers didn't have to happen, but then we wouldn't have a mystery would we. Amanda does an excellent job of keeping the real culprit hidden till the very end.

Thursday, May 30, 2019

Never Vie for a Viscount by Regina Scott - Review of the fourth book in the Fortune's Brides series




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(copied from Amazon.com)
The perky Lydia Villers is determined to leave behind her life as a social butterfly and do what she's always dreams of doing, pursue a career in natural philosophy. A shame the only scientist available to assist her is the one man she had once hoped towed.

The brilliant Frederick, Viscount Worthington, Worth to his friends, has been betrayed too many times, including by the bubbly beauty who now wants to work at his side. How can he believe Lydia's intentions are true this time? After all, someone is intent of sabotaging his efforts to create the perfect hot air balloon. But with the help of Miss Thorn and her beloved cat Fortune, the enthusiastic young lady and the wary lord might just discover that only together do they make the perfect chemistry.

This sweet, clean Regency romance is the sequel to Never Envy an Earl, Fortune's Brides: Only a matchmaking cat can hunt true love.


MY  REVIEW
I don't read a lot of Regency books but I am enjoying this series by Regina. Gotta love Fortune, lol. Due to a mix-up I read this out of order and still enjoyed the book but this series is much better if read in order. I hope you enjoy the series as much as I do if you choose to read it.

This Freedom Journey by Misty M Beller - Review of the third book in the Heart of the Mountains series




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(copied from Amazon.com)
Adrien Lockman is through with the political unrest and bloodshed in his home country of France, so he sets off to the Canadian territory's mountain frontier, in search of a place where a man can life his own life in peace. The last thing he expects to find is a woman, half-starved and half-frozen in a shack nestled among the towering peaks of the great Rocky Mountains.

Mary Standish thought she'd finally found a place where she was accepted, trapping with her husband for the Hudson Bay Company. But when he dies after a gruesome grizzly fight, she determines to carry on their work. After all, life in these remote mountains is better than enduring the scorn and snubs of "civilized" folk. When she's forced to face a winter harder than any she's endured yet, her stubbornness may just be the death of her. Until a stranger appears at her ramshackle door.

Adrien had planned to explore the mountain country all winter before he settles down to build a farm in the spring, but he can't leave this woman to die in the elements. Even though she seems desperate for him to go. As Mary regains strength, she's torn between wanting to save her dignity, and craving the respect of this man who's sliped past her defenses. As the winter worsens, the truth becomes all too real--the only way they'll survive is together.

MY   REVIEW
Yet another great book from Misty!! I think I have enjoyed every one of her books that I've read and can only say once you start reading a book/series you won't want to quit until you have read all so you can move onto a new one.

Wednesday, April 24, 2019

Room on the Porch Swing by Amy Clipston - Review of the second book in the Amish Homestead Novel series




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When tragedy strikes, can two young Amish people find the hope that lies on the other side?

Laura Riehl is no stranger to heartache. Less than a year after her mother's death, Laura finds herself burying another loved one: her best friend, Savilla, who has dies after a brief and sudden illness. Laura feels heartbroken and alone, but her pain is nothing compared to that of Allen, the husband Savilla has left behind. He now faces a life so different from the one he imagined--plus a baby to car for on his own.

When Laura offers to help Allen with baby Mollie, he jumps at the opportunity until a permanent solution can be found. She'd do anything to lend a hand to Allen and to honor her best friend's memory. Rudy, Laura's boyfriend, is initially supportive of her plan, but the more time Laura spends with Allen, the more jealous and frustrated Rudy seems to become.

As Laura and Allen face hardships together, their friendship takes a surprising yet comforting turn--and she discovers an attraction she's never felt with Rudy. Would falling for Allen betray the people she cares about most, or would denying those feelings betray her heart? This latest installment in the Amish Homestead series returns us to Lancaster County, home of the beloved Riehls, where a family's strength--and advice from a new friend--may help Laura find God's direction.


MY  REVIEW
Yes, Amy has pulled me in once again and made me feel so sorry for these families. She lets you know how faith, family and friends can help you through the difficult path of life. I can recommend this as a great read!

Saturday, April 20, 2019

An Amish Reunion by Amy Clipston, Beth Wiseman, Kathleen Fuller and Kelly Irvin - Review




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Their True Home by Amy Clipston
When Marlene Bawell moved from Bird-in-Hand ten years ago she was in the deepest of mourning for her mother. Now he family has moved back so her father can seek employment after being laid off. To help save money, Marlene works at the hardware store owned by Rudy Swarey's father. She knew Rudy growing up and had a secret crush on him, though he never seemed to notice her. But just as a friendship between them begins to blossom, her life is once again turned upside down. Will Marlene ever have a chance to find her own true home?

A Reunion of Hearts by Beth Wiseman
Ruth and Gideon Beiler experienced one of life's most tragic events. Unable to get past their grief, the couple abandoned their Amish faith and went in different directions, though neither could bear to formally dissolve the marriage. When their loved ones reach out to them to come home for a family reunion, Ruth has reason to believe that Gideon won't be there. Gideon also thinks that Ruth has declined the invitation. Family and friends are rooting for them to reunite, but will it all be enough for Ruth and Gideon to get past their grief and recapture a time when they were in love and had a bright future ahead of them?

A Chance to Remember by Kathleen Fuller
Cevilla Schlabach, Birch Creek's resident octogenarian matchmaker, is surprised when Richard, a man from her Englisch past, arrives in Birch Creek for a visit. While he and Cevilla take several walks down memory lane, they wonder what the future holds for them at this stage of life--friendship, or the possibility of something else?

Mended Hearts by Kelly Irvin
At eighteen Hanna Kauffman made a terrible mistake. Her parents and members of her Jamesport Amish community say they've forgiven her. But she feels their eyes following her everywhere she goes with eighteen-month-old Evie. Thaddeus, Evie's father, escaped this fate by running away from Jamesport. Now that Thaddeus is gone, Hannah's old friend Philip is stepping up to be by her side. He has waited patiently for Hannah to realize just how much he cares for her. But when Thaddeus returns after two years, Hannah can't deny the love she feels for him. Does the fact that Phillip has waited patiently for her all this time mean that she owes him something? Can she trust either one of them? Can she trust herself? She has repented and been forgiven by the One who is most important--her heavenly Father. But is she willing to risk making more mistakes by opening herself up to love?


MY  REVIEW
I am so glad I got this book. It was wonderful being able to read a continuation to a couple of series I have read, one by Amy Clipston's Amish Homestead series and Kelly Irvin's Every Amish Season series. I had most recently read the latest book in Kelly's series and really enjoyed finding out what happened to Hannah.

Beth Wiseman's story tore my heart apart, what a hard thing for Ruth and Gideon to endure. And Kathleens story was quite different and touching.

This whole book was amazing, the authors did a wonderful job of filling you with emotional feelings, you can't put the book down. A definite five star book!!!

I have received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Monday, April 8, 2019

Never Kneel to a Knight by Regina Scott - Review of the fifth book in the Fortune's Brides seroes




BACK  OF  THE  BOOK  BLURB
(copied from Amazon.com)
When the thoroughly poised Charlotte Worthington requests that Miss Thorn and her cat Fortune find her a position, she never dreams the savvy employment agency owner would reunity her with Mathew Bateman, her brother's former bodyguard. Matthew is about to be knighted for an act of valor. Yet how can Charlotte maintain her calm, cool demeanor as their sponsor when she harbors a secret love for him?

Matthew Bateman cannot forget the beauty who is miles out of his league. Once a boxer called the Beast of Birmingham, Matthew would like nothing better than to be worthy of Charlotte's hand. As old enemies and new ones attempt to bring him low, can Matthew prove to Charlotte that their love is meant to be?

This sweet, clean Regency romance is the sequel to Never Vie for a Viscount Fortune's Brides: Only a matchmaking cat can hunt true love.

MY  REVIEW
Regina has done such a great job with this book, this series. Once you start reading you find yourself reading faster and not wanting to put the book down. I can highly recommend this book/series as I normally don't read a lot of Regency books but these have been great.

I received this e-book free from the author. I was not required to write a review but chose to do so and this is my honest opinion of the book.

Monday, April 1, 2019

This Wilderness Journey by Misty M Beller - Review of the second book in the Heart of the Mountains series




BACK  OF  THE  BOOK  BLURB
(copied from Amazon.com)
Joseph Malcom has spent his life protecting those in need, but now that his sister is safely settled with her new family in the Canadian Rockies, his help is no longer required. That is, until he's asked to safely retrieve the priest's cousin to help minister to the local Indian tribe. But his passenger is not at all who he expects.

After the death of her mother, Monti Bergeron has nothing to keep her in Montreal. While the prospect of ministering to the Indians out West is daunting, she looks forward to assisting her beloved cousin in his mission work. The life of a nun may be just what she needs to heal her grief, serving her Heavenly Father and fellow mankind, especially if no more pesky suitors are around to ask for her hand in marriage. But the man who's been sent to guide her through the mountains might make her second-guess her plans before she even begins.

As Monti settles into her ministry, Joseph finds his wandering feet drawn back to the Indian camp. Monti's focus on God is more unsettling than he'd like to admit. Add to that her beauty which tests his willpower at every turn, and she's made it crystal clear she doesn't want a husband. But when his  determination to keep distance between them puts Monti in danger, protecting her might require something Joseph might not be able to give.


MY  REVIEW
I really enjoy Misty's books and am really enjoying reading them all, I'm sure you will too once you start reading them. I don't often 'pre-order' books but I do hers. She has a writing style that keeps you coming back for more,. So far I see seven books in this series and I have already pre-ordered the seventh book. I just wish I could read as fast as she writes, but unfortunately I don't as well as having so many books in my TBR pile, I just can't keep up, BUT I will not miss out on any.

Tuesday, March 26, 2019

With Winter's First Frost by Kelly Irvin - Review of the fourth book in an Every Amish Season series




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With the coldest season comes the warmest of second chances.

At age seventy-three, Laura Kauffman knows she is closer to the end of life than the beginning. If God willed it, she would join her beloved late husband soon. Even so, Laura wonders what purpose God might have for her in this winter of her life--and why this season seems so lonely.

Widower Zechariah Stutzman is facing his own barren season, despite the great-grandchildren swirling around him. With his Parkinson's worsening, he had no choice but to move in with his grandson's family, though now he feels adrift and useless.

When Laura offers to help with Zechariah's five great-grandchildren after their mother has a difficult childbirth, Zechariah is unsure how he will adjust to the warm but tart demeanor of this woman he has known since grade school. But soon Laura and Zechariah learn they are asking God the same questions about loss and hope. And they begin to wonder if He is providing answers after all.

With Winter's First Frost reminds us that God's purposes always bear fruit--and sometimes love is sweeter with age.


MY  REVIEW
As with all of Kelly's books I did enjoy it, I thought it was a little slower story than most, although that could have just been me and my health at the time. I still rate this highly as there is a good story here about how you deal with getting older and health problems that may affect you and your friends along with facing difficult family situations.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers; book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Tuesday, January 29, 2019

Seasons of an Amish Garden by Amy Clipston - Review. all four stories in the series are in this book





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ENJOY A YEAR OF BEAUTIFUL SEASONS IN THIS NEW STORY
COLLECTION, AS YOUNG AMISH COUPLES MANAGE A COMMUNITY
GARDEN AND HARVEST FRIENDSHIPS AND LOVE ALONG THE WAY.

SPRING IS IN THE AIR

As the young people of Bird-in-Hand, Pennsylvania, plant a garden in memory of their friend, Katie Ann begins to worry that her older brother, Ephraim, is dating her best friend. What if she somehow loses them both? But Christian, a new boy in the community, also works in the garden. Falling for him may be exactly the distraction, and lesson, that Katie Ann needs.

HOME BY SUMMER
Clara Hertzler is surprised when Jerry Petersheim, her old friend, comes to the garden to drop off his younger sister--especially because Jerry has been gone for years and now seems to be living as an Englisher. As the friends get to know each other again, Clara pushes Jerry to examine why he abandoned his Amish beliefs. Will Clara help Jerry renew his faith in God, and will they find love beneath the summer sun?

THE FRUITS OF FALL
Tena Speicher has come to live in Bird-in-Hand after her fiance left her for an English woman. When a homeless veteran comes to the harvest stand one day and asks for food, Tena is not sure how to respond--but Wayne intervenes and offers to let him stay in the barn. Afraid to trust Englishers, Tena must learn, with Wayne's help, that everyone is a child of God and deserving of kindness.

WINTER BLESSINGS
Ephraim and Mandy have dated for some time and now have plans to marry. But after a series of unexpected events and misunderstandings, they wonder if they should go their separate ways. What will happen when their friends at the Amish garden conspire to bring them back together?



MY  REVIEW
Some great short stories with a lot of lessons to be learned. Amy does a great job of taking you through the lives of these Amish young people and the struggles they are going through in their personal lives as they are doing so much to help others.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers; book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Saturday, January 12, 2019

Together Forever by Jody Hedlund - Review of the second book in the Orphan Train series




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Will the Mistakes of Their Past
Cost Them a Chance at Love?

Determined to find her lost younger sister, Marianne Neumann takes a job as a placing agent with the Children's Aid Society in 1858 New York. She not only hopes to offer children a better life, but prays she'll be able to discover whether Sophie ended up leaving the city on an orphan train so they can finally be reunited.

Andrew Brady, her fellow agent on her first placing-out trip, is a former schoolteacher who has an easy way with the children, firm but tender and friendly. Underneath his charm and handsome looks, though, seems to linger a grief that won't go away--and a secret from his past that he keeps hidden.

As the two team up, placing orphans in the small railroad towns of Illinois, they find themselves growing ever closer . . .until a shocking tragedy threatens to upend all their work and change on of their lives forever.


MY  REVIEW
Love this series, of course I really enjoy every one of Jody's books that I've read. This is a very touching series and tells the heartstrings that are pulled on a caring person having to let children go to homes that they know nothing about when they have become attached. In a way this same thing happens today, not by train, but having to find homes for children whose parents can not care for them be it for health reasons, lack of a job and not able to care for them, neglect, abuse, drugs or any other number of things if this world. Put yourself in Marianne's position and think about how you would handle what life has dealt you.

Saturday, January 5, 2019

The Teacher's Bride by Kathleen Fuller - Review of the first book in the Amish Brides of Birch Creek series




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If there is one thing Christian Ropp will not allow in his classroom---or his life---it is chaos. So why is he drawn to Ruby Glick, a woman who seems to bring mayhem wherever she goes?

Christian Ropp moves to Birch Creek to accept a teaching position in the rapidly growing Amish community. He's determined to put the rambunctious school in order as well as check another task off his list:  find a wife. Of course, that would be much easier if women were like textbooks, straightforward and logical.

When an accident puts Christian out of commission, a new community member named Ruby Glick takes over his classroom. But Ruby's exuberant teaching style clashes with Christian's careful methods, and he worries his students will never be the same.

With a track record of catastrophe, Ruby always feels too clumsy, too distracted, too . . .much. Desperate for a chance to prove that she can do more than make mistakes in her life, she throws herself into her new teaching position. But when Christian can't seem to stay out of her way, she finds herself slipping into old, chaotic tendencies.

What she doesn't anticipate is that Christian's heart is slowly catching up with his mind---and she, too, must decide whether to follow logic or love.


MY  REVIEW
I have read many of Kathleen's books and enjoyed every one of them. When I finish one I'm always anxious to move on to the next in the series, as I am with this one and I see it won't be out until JUNE!!! This was another great story and so many more I can see coming from Birch Creek. Grab a copy and enjoy!

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers; book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.