Sunday, October 14, 2018

Shadowed by a Spy by Marilyn Turk

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ABOUT THE BOOK

Three seats ahead, Lexie Smithfield ponders her future as a nurse at Bellevue Hospital and wife to her fiancé Russell Thompson. A brief encounter with Cal Miller on the train leads to an unlikely friendship, and ultimately to the fearsome discovery that this handsome, kindly man is not who he appears to be. 


When Russell is given an opportunity to work overseas, Lexie reluctantly encourages him to go. But his absence leaves Lexie alone in a strange city where her path becomes increasingly darkened by her unwitting connection to the German saboteurs. As the spies lay plans to destroy American factories and bridges, it becomes clear that only two people can stop them. One is a catatonic patient at Bellevue who must be strapped to his bed and sedated. The other is Lexie herself, a young woman who longs only for the security of marriage while ministering to the war's physically and emotionally wounded. 


Can Lexie's unintended friendship with a Nazi spy thwart a terrorist attack? Or will her hopes and dreams — peace on the American homefront — become another casualty of war


MY REVIEW

I really enjoyed this book!! 

Marilyn is a talented writer and one I highly recommend. She has a way of adding special surprises to make you keep turning the pages to see what is happening to our favorite characters. 
Although I am going to have to say that I like the Guided Curse much better. 
This book has a story all in itself though. 
I often wondered what times were like in World War 2. (My grandpa fought the Germans in this war so it's kind of special to me.) My the stories he could tell!! (of course they'd change with each telling)
I think I'm still going to continue to admire Russell. Russell for doing his part in the war even though he couldn't do what he wanted to do. His talents are admirable. I went to an awesome piano concert last week and Russell came to mind. How grand to hear him play like this man did. I even imagined him as Russell. I loved his personality as well. I was happy to see that the war hadn't changed it. 
Lexie is still the sweetheart she is. I felt like I wanted to strangle her sometimes though. I admired her for her ability to want to help others. She's truly an amazing person. Sometimes our parents can leave more of an impact on us more that we realize later in life. Verbal abuse is sometimes that the physical abuse. I admired Lexie for being able to work through her problems. Learning to trust God in all things is harder than we can imagine. Through Christ all things are possible. 
I would reread this book again. 
I recieved a copy of this book. No compensations were received. All opinions are my own 



ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Marilyn Turk, award-winning author of three books, loves to discover interesting historical tidbits and let her characters experience them. A lighthouse enthusiast, she writes a popular lighthouse blog ( pathwayheart.com ), so expect to find a lighthouse in each of her books. Marilyn is also a contributing author to the Daily Guideposts devotional book. She and her husband live on the Gulf coast of Florida.

A Mist O'er the Voyageur by Naomi Musch

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ABOUT THE BOOK

After her aunt's death, Métis woman Brigitte Marchal finds herself alone in Montreal. Uninterested in the convent and desperate to flee a loathsome suitor, she disguises herself as a young man to travel west by voyageurs' brigade in search of her long-absent, fur-trader father. But her inexperience and disguise don't hide her for long. 

René Dufour yields to the unwelcome position of shielding Brigitte, but he cannot hide her identity forever. Keeping her safe while meeting his North West Company obligations and honoring his family promises may prove to be more disquieting to his heart than he imagined. 

As Brigitte adjusts to the voyageur life on Lake Superior, she struggles to justify the faith she grew up in with the mysticism around her, but greater still is the conflict her heart must settle over who to trust in this rugged, unfamiliar country. 



MY REVIEW

I immediately connected with this wonderful story!! 
I enjoyed the adventure so much that I didn't want this story to end. And a grand adventure it was too!! Very well written and you could feel the characters feelings come right out of the book!! 
I felt connected because of Lake Superior. That is one of my favorite lakes!! My family and I would go there to vacation with a motel on the beach. I have a picture of me feeding the sea gulls on the beach flying over Lake Superior. 
In 2005 I wanted to take my family to Sault St. Marie but alas, we didn't go far enough North. Needless to say, I was very disappointed. 
I want to go back so bad and take my family with me. Maybe this time we'll make it far enough North. 
I loved this story too, because I could imagine myself being one of the lucky voyageurs that got to travel where the Indians tread. Imagine traveling a land where no one has but the Indians!! I think it would be nice to meet the Ojibwa. They are people just like us. God created us in His image even the Indians. 
Rene' is a wonderful character even though I'm sure he has his trials and tribulations just like everyone else did. I loved this character above all else because of his kind and caring ways. And oh my!! Such a handsome man!! I also liked Rene' because he had a very strong faith. 
Brigitte was special in her own way. I enjoyed getting to know her as well. She has quite a disposition and a gentleness when she wanted to show it. There were times when I felt like putting my arms around her to comfort her during her sad times. 
How we all want someone to love us for who God made us to be. Even I want that kind of love.
There is only one God. How everyone decided that he wasn't I'll never know. Isn't it ironic? 
A loving God that loves us all and wants us to come to Him even when we are troubled and need to talk to Him. Sometimes even when we are too stubborn and "want" to do it our own way. 
Well, all I have to say is y'all gotta read this story!! It will take you on the adventure of your lives!! 
I strongly recommend this book. She's such a talented writer!! 
I received a copy of this book. No compensations were required and all opinions are my own!! 


ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Naomi Dawn Musch


Naomi loves stories rich in American history, but occasionally writes in other genres as well. She pens stories from the pristine north woods, where she and her husband live as epically as God allows near their five adult children and passel of grandchildren. She has worked as an editor for a small press, a staff writer for an EPA award-winning newspaper, a ghost writer, and has published dozens of magazine and internet articles for the encouragement of homeschooling families and young writers. Naomi is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, Lake Superior Writers, and the Wisconsin Writers' Association. She loves engaging with others and always discovering kernels of a new story. She is available for speaking and book groups. Her newest novel is Mist O'er the Voyageur, and she anticipates re-releasing several of her back-list novels in 2019.
Connect with her through her website: http://www.naomimusch.com 
FB: Naomi Musch - Author 
Twitter: NMusch


Thursday, October 11, 2018

Romancing the Bride by Melissa Jaegers

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ABOUT THE BOOK

Desperate to keep the ranch where three of her children and a husband lie buried, Annie Gephart must marry or sell. Which of the few bachelors in town would consider a surprise proposal to wed a plain widow with a rebellious daughter, a spirited boy, and unpaid taxes—without laughing in her face? 

Jacob Hendrix has never fully let go of his ranching dreams despite ending up as a small Wyoming town’s marshal. The job wouldn’t be so bad, except he’s more errand boy than lawman. When Annie proposes marriage without a single coquettish bat of an eyelash, can he commit himself to a woman he hardly knows for a choice piece of property he’d be an idiot to pass up? 

But taxes aren’t all that threaten Annie and Jacob’s plans. Cattle rustlers, crumbling friendships, and wayward children make this marriage of convenience anything but. When they lose what they’ve sacrificed everything to save, will the love of a stranger be enough? 

Romancing the Bride is the first book in the Frontier Vows Series by award-winning Christian romance author Melissa Jagears. If you like heartwarming marriage-of-convenience stories, you’ll love this sweet romance filled with endearing characters.


MY REVIEW


I enjoyed this story so much that I couldn't put the book down! 

I spent most of the day on Sunday reading just to finish it. I laughed out loud in different parts of he story. My son asked me what was so funny so I told him. I think I embarrassed him but I didn't care because we were in the privacy of our own home. But even if I were out in public I'd still laugh out loud. 
One time I was with my mom in her office and I started laughing so hard that I fell off the couch!!

If there's one thing I can't really can't stand it's a self centered person. They just take and take without appreciating anything you do for them. I think that this is one of life's hardest lessons. I always try to treat people the way I would want to be treated. 
I'm actually referring to a certain character in this book. I really wanted to teach her a lesson but it wasn't for me to do. It was her parents and God.

Her brother Spencer now I really loved him. If I were to have a brother I'd want him to be like Spencer. I wished I had half his energy!! Of course, I'm partial to boys anyway since I raised one. Although I'd love to have a sister for him. But it wasn't to happen. God's will I suppose. 

Grief has no time limit. I've probably said this a million times in my reviews but it never hurts to be reminded. There are 4 stages of grief. I don't remember all of them but denial is one I know of. 
I wanted to take Annie in my arms and tell her that it would be ok with time. And of course God's love. 
One thing though is you never get over missing that person once they are gone. I should know. I still miss my mom so much that it still hurts. One person said that I needed to get "over it" I wanted to slug them so bad. I decided not to lower myself to their standards. 
This story meant a lot to me because it offers hope, love and a chance to grow closer to God. 

Melissa writes in such a way that she made feel like a part of Annie's family. I enjoyed the sibling rivalry and realized that being raised as an only child was quite boring. I saw what I missed. So not fair!!!

Bless Jacob!! What an amazing man!! I'd love for him to be my Pa. He was so very kind and gentle. Of course there was his stern side too. I guess that's what it takes to be a cool Pa. I admired him very much. Especially his faith. It was very strong even in times of trouble. Or when things didn't go right for him.

The person I felt sorry for the most was Leah. My how I loved her personality!! I felt that she was dealt an unfair blow in life. Well, I just let you read the story. Here's where I'll end and hopefully I haven't given too much away!! I can't wait for you to enjoy this wonderful book!!

I received this book with no compensations necessary. All are my honest opinions.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Melissa Jagears
Much to her introverted self's delight, ACFW Award winner and double INSPY finalist Melissa Jagears hardly needs to leave her home to be a homeschooling mother and novelist. She lives in Kansas with her husband and three children and can be found online at www.melissajagears.com, Facebook, Pinterest, and Goodreads.

Saturday, October 6, 2018

In Times Gone By by Tracie Peterson

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ABOUT THE BOOK

After getting left at the altar, Kenzie Gifford flees to San Francisco to start her life over, determined never to love again. She's made new friends and has a good job in the office of her cousin's chocolate factory. The only thorn in her side is Dr. Micah Fisher, who insists on pursuing her despite her constant rejection.

Then the Great 1906 Earthquake strikes the city, and everything changes. The devastation all around her makes Kenzie reevaluate her outlook on life--and possibly even her feelings for Micah. But then her world is rocked again when her ex-fiancE appears, full of apologies and determined to win her back. But Arthur already broke her heart once. Does she dare trust him again? The sudden arrival of a hidden danger will expose the motivations of all involved, but it could cost Kenzie her life--as well as her heart. 


MY REVIEW

I loved the setting for this book. I admire Tracie Peterson for her ability to write these wonderful stories. 
I don't think that much is written about the earthquake of San Francisco in 1906. 
Tracie writes in a way that I could imagine myself being in with the people and what they went through during that terrible time. I loved the way the people of the community came together in their time of need and helped each other. 
I think it's awful that it takes something like this to make people come together. We should always help because we never know who might need it. 9/11 is a perfect example for today's catastrophe. We as a nation came together and helped those in need. 
I'm wondering if God plans these disasters to make us wake up and realize what is going on around us? I'd like to think so. But then after everything settles down we go back to our old way of life never giving our Lord a second thought. That's terrible. 
I liked how the girls and their friends helped wherever people needed it. 
I understand how Kenzie felt. When I broke up with my ex he took everything with him including my heart. It took me a long long time to understand why he did that and it also took me long time to trust another man. 
All men are not alike my head says but, my heart is telling me opposite.
I dearly love the man I have now. He does everything for me and gets anything the family needs. 
Doctors like Micah are hard to find these days. Sometimes I think that yesterday's drs can really teach these doctors today some bedside manners. 
I give this book 5 stars with my whole heart. 
I received a copy from Netgalley and no compensation were received..




ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tracie PetersonTracie Peterson is a bestselling author who writes in both historical and contemporary genres. Her novels reveal her love for research as well as her strong desire to develop emotionally meaningful characters and stories for her readers. Tracie and her family live in Montana.







Too Blessed to be Stressed for Moms be Deborah Coty




TOUR DATES: SEPTEMBER 24 – OCTOBER 12

(tour schedule at the end of this email)

This email is going to give you tons and tons of information, so I’m going to give the top three things you need to know here:
  1. When your post is up, please submit your links via this form.
  2. There are lots of options for things you can add to your post, however, the two mandatory items are your review and information about the giveaway, including the graphic (more info below).
  3. If you have not received your book, either the hard copy or e-book, email me at ajenningspr@gmail.com ASAP so I can get another book sent to you.

Text to be included about the giveaway

(first paragraph is optional)


No one is immune to stress, least of all moms. That’s why Debora M. Coty, author of the best-selling Too Blessed to be Stressed series decided it was time to write an edition specifically addressing the stresses and needs in the daily life of moms. In Too Blessed to be Stressed for Moms (Shiloh Run Press, an imprint of Barbour Publishing), Deb offers empathy, laughs, real-life stories, practical parenting survival tips, and fresh biblical insights to help frazzled moms of all ages hear God’s still, small voice through life’s chaos.

To celebrate the release of Too Blessed to Be Stressed for Moms and to bless a mom that needs to de-stress, Deb is giving away a “Take a Day for Mom” $75 VISA Cash Card. The card can be used by a mom for a day of pampering or just getting away and enjoying a day to herself. Do you need a day away or know a mom who does? (Is that a trick question?) Then, enter the giveaway and share it with all your friends. (Another little secret… you don’t have to prove you are a mom in order to win!)





MY REVIEW



This book full of wonderful advice!
Where was this book when I was raising my son! I could've used this then. But, the awesome thing is of course we can still use the book in our daily lives.

Too Blessed to be Stressed for Moms has some cool scriptures. I enjoyed how the author weaves these in with her every day life and shows us how to also.

There are some funny parts too. These stories have a way of making you laugh at yourself as you look back and realise that this author understands exactly what you are going through as a mom.

I would like to read these other books in this series too and see what they have to offer.
The cover of this book is really beautiful!

I received a complementary copy from Netgalley and no compensations were received. This is my honest opinion






Link for the Rafflecopter giveaway


It will be easiest for people to enter the giveaway if you include the embed, but if you would rather link to the giveaway, the link is: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/8b3c91bb2/

Or you can link to my blog post (going live on Monday morning):
https://www.audrajennings.com/2018/09/too-blessed-to-be-stressed-for-moms_24.html

It will also be housed on my new Facebook page where you can share the giveaway from there: http://gvwy.io/rjte9hx


About the book





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Do you feel like you’re drowning in the everyday stress-pool? . . .
Wish you could make busy-ness a business so you’d be a millionaire? . . .
Welcome to the maternal order of slightly sagging sisters of the 'hood. The motherhood. 
With her own offbeat brand of wit and near-wisdom, popular inspirational humorist Debora Coty addresses heart needs of moms drowning in the churning stress-pool of busyness. In her beloved mom-to-mom, grin-provoking style, Coty offers empathy, laughs, real-life stories, practical parenting survival tips, and fresh biblical insights to help you hear Papa God’s still, small voice through life’s chaos. 
Whether you're struggling with stress related to attitude, time-management, guilt trips, patience, or something in between. . .this humor-filled volume will deliver a much-needed smile and equip you with simple-to-implement tips for attaining the peace we all crave—the peace that passes all understanding.

About the author

Debora M. Coty is a popular humorist, speaker, and award-winning author of numerous inspirational books, including the bestselling Too Blessed to be Stressed line. Deb considers herself a tennis junkie and choco-athlete (meaning she exercises just so she can eat more chocolate). A retired piano teacher and orthopedic occupational therapist, Debora currently lives, loves, and laughs in central Florida with her husband, Chuck, and three grandbuddies and one grandprincess.

Readers can connect with Debora M. Coty via her website, deboracoty.com, or on Facebook (AuthorDeboraCoty)Twitter (DeboraCoty) and Instagram (DeboraCoty)

Book trailer


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The Teacher's Bride by Kathleen Fuller

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ABOUT THE BOOK

Beloved and bestselling author of Amish romance Kathleen Fuller reminds us that sometimes opposites really do attract. 

"A heartwarming story of unexpected romance woven with fun and engaging characters who come to life on every page."--Amy Clipston, bestselling author of A Seat by the Hearth 

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: finding 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. 

"Kathleen Fuller has written a sweet, oftentimes humorous, romance that reminds readers that the perfect match might be right in front of their noses."--Kelly Irvin, bestselling author of the Every Amish Season series

"Kathleen Fuller is a master storyteller and fans will absolutely fall in love with Ruby and Christian in The Teacher's Bride." --Ruth Reid, bestselling author of the Amish Mercies series

"Kathy Fuller's characters leap off the page with subtle power as she uses both wit and wisdom to entertain!"--Kelly Long, national bestselling author

"The story will captivate you from the first page to the last with Ruby, Christian, and engaging characters. You’ll laugh, gasp, and wonder what will happen next." --Molly Jebber, Speaker and Award Winning Author of Grace’s Forgiveness and the Amish Keepsake Pocket Quilt Series  



MY REVIEW


I enjoyed this one so much!! 
I can tell that the author enjoyed writing this book too!! It's her best yet!! I first fell in love with this author when I read Treasuring Emma: A Middlefield family series.
These characters will want to make you laugh and cry at the same time. And yet, knock their heads together as well because they are both so hardheaded!!!! 
Ruby is a fun loving person. I think she's like me in so many ways. With just the right people you can have fun and laugh with. I think that Ruby did grow up a lot and she learned from her many mistakes. 
Christian is a first too stuffy for me. But he came along just nicely. I ended up liking him after all. 
The main thing I really liked about Christian was he meant what he said and made his students mind! 
He also is a very caring person because there's just some things that are meant for family alone. Like his sister for one. 
When you put Christian and Ruby together things might just happen and happen they did!! 
I laughed so much that tears came from my eyes. Some of the things reminded me of my own husband as he is a klutzy person. He can walk right into a sign because he didn't "see" it in time. 
I rooted for Ruby as she learned her way through life. Some things are just worth fighting for!! She knew what she wanted and went after it. 
Amish fans will definitely want to read this book!! It's a laugh out loud and will lighten whatever mood you are in and make you feel better about yourself. These kinds of books I loooooooove!!! 
Thanks Kathleen Fuller for such a delightful read!! 
I received this book from Netgalley. No compensations were received!











The Spirit of God Illustrated Bible By Doris Wynbeek

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ABOUT THE BOOK

The Spirit of God Illustrated Bible brings to life more than 40 Bible stories that help readers understand that God’s Spirit has been with us since the beginning of time and continues to be with us today. From the glory of creation through the powerful letters of Paul, God’s Spirit is living in his people. Old and New Testament stories such as Adam and Eve, Abraham, Joseph, the Baptism of Jesus, and Pentecost come alive with dramatic illustrations by Fernando Juarez and moving text by Doris Rikkers. With a cover that sparkles and shines with foil, this is a special storybook Bible that will appeal to both children and parents alike.

Where can I go from your Spirit?

Where can I flee from your presence?

If I go up to the heavens, you are there;

If I make my bed in the depths, you are there.

If I rise on the wings of the dawn,

If I settle on the far side of the sea,

Even there your hand will guide me,

Your right hand will hold me fast.

Psalm 139: 7–10
 


MY REVIEW

When my family and I first opened this book I was amazed. 

I loved all the illustrations that this beautiful book had to offer. 
I think that this is the best book for teaching children to learn the Bible so much easier. 

I loved the cartoon illustrations. The pictures are absolutely and perfect for the story that they are written for. I could actually imagine myself in those stories. 
 These stories are taken from the NIV. 
There are some great stories and not so good. 

The cover of this book is just gorgeous!! And I love that it is hardback.
There is a message at the end just for kids.

I recommend this book for people who want to read with their children and look at the pictures 
that go along with the stories. 


I received this book from the Just Read with Audra program. All opinions are my own 


Giveaway:







36534238



ABOUT THE BOOK

First-century Corinth is a city teeming with commerce and charm. It’s also filled with danger and corruption—the perfect setting for Ariadne’s greatest adventure.

After years spent living with her mother and oppressive grandfather in Athens, Ariadne runs away to her father’s home in Corinth, only to discover the perilous secret that destroyed his marriage: though a Greek of high birth, Galenos is the infamous thief who has been robbing the city’s corrupt of their ill-gotten gains.

Desperate to keep him safe, Ariadne risks her good name, her freedom, and the love of the man she adores to become her father’s apprentice. As her unusual athletic ability leads her into dangerous exploits, Ariadne discovers that she secretly revels in playing with fire. But when the wrong person discovers their secret, Ariadne and her father find their future—and very lives—hanging in the balance.

When they befriend a Jewish rabbi named Paul, they realize that his radical message challenges everything they’ve fought to build, yet offers something neither dared hope for. 


MY REVIEW

This book was by far Tessa's best. She writes this one with her whole heart and I can actually imagine myself being in the story along with the characters. 
I also enjoyed this story because it offers readers Hope, Faith and Love. Mostly Love. 
I was happy to meet Paul again. I liked him because I felt like he could see the inside of your soul and knew exactly what you needed. I knew then, that he was pretty special. 
We also meet Simon who was a staunch supporter of Paul. 
The author shows us that the characters of the Bible lived pretty much as we do today. ( Only they had it much harder than we do today). 
My thoughts run along the lines like this: What would they think about today's technology? Would they be like us and not have time for God? 
I think I enjoyed Galeanos the most!! Even though I don't condone what he did I understand he did it for his family. 
In a way, the mother wasn't much better. It's wrong to split family. 
I felt sorry for Ariadne ( I called her Ari for short because I couldn't pronounce her real name) I'm sure she wouldn't have minded. I laughed at her some in the story. Especially towards the end. I know most people wouldn't laugh like that because that sort of stuff isn't funny. (I guess I was just in a weird mood last night). Theo I really rooted for him. I felt sorry for him too because he worked so hard to gain approval from the city and people alike. 
Justus I ended up falling in love with him. I loved his gentle ways and he treated most people the way he would want to be treated. 
The underhandedness of the Romans were something else. I didn't like that at all. 
I recommend this book.
I received this book from Netgalley. All opinions are my own. No compensations were recieved 



ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tessa AfsharTessa Afshar is an award-winning author of historical and biblical fiction. Her novel, Land of Silence, won an Inspy award, and was voted by Library Journal as one of five top Christian Fiction titles of 2016. It was also nominated for the 2016 RT Reviewer’s Choice Award for best Inspirational Romance. Harvest of Gold won the prestigious 2014 Christy Award in the Historical Romance category. Her book, Harvest of Rubies was a finalist for the 2013 ECPA Book Award in the fiction category. Her first novel, Pearl in the sand, won her “New Author of the Year” by the Family Fiction sponsored Reader’s Choice Awards 2011. Tessa was born in Iran and lived there for the first fourteen years of her life. She moved to England where she survived boarding school for girls and fell in love with Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte, before moving to the United States permanently. Her conversion to Christianity in her twenties changed the course of her life forever. Tessa holds an MDiv from Yale University where she served as cochair of the Evangelical Fellowship at the Divinity School. She serves on the staff of one of the oldest churches in America. But that has not cured her from being addicted to chocolate.






Monday, October 1, 2018

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ABOUT THE BOOK

Eitan has lived in Kedesh, a City of Refuge, for the last eleven years, haunted by a tragedy in his childhood and chafing at the boundaries placed on him. He is immediately captivated by Sofea, but revealing his most guarded secret could mean drawing her into the danger of his past.


As threats from outside the walls loom and traitors are uncovered within, Sofea and Eitan are plunged into the midst of a murder plot. Will they break free from the shackles of the past in time to uncover the betrayal and save their lives and the lives of those they love?


MY REVIEW

Conni at her best and from the heart!!! 

This author has a style all her own!! She has a great talent for drawing people into the book from page one!

I admired Sofea for her courage and her ability to adjust to changes that were thrust upon her unwillingly. ( I too, have gone through some changes unwillingly but God had my back) so, I definitely felt for Sofea. Like her I will arise and show everyone that my faith strong!!

Through Moriyah's hospitality and love, I enjoyed watching the girls come to know Yahweh.
I loved the banter that easily flowed from the family. Moriyah made me feel like I was a part of her family! 
I loved that the family prayed before each meal. I wonder if ppl still do that to this day? 
Prayers are powerful indeed! 

The author shows us too, that even every one of us has baggage. No matter how little or big in life it is. Yahweh forgives. We need only to ask.

I loved the many Bible verses that flowed throughout the book. 

I still love Counting the Stars out from Egypt Egypt series) There's just something about the first book that is special to my heart!

The City of Refuge can be found in Joshua 20.
This could be a superb movie!! 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Connilyn Cossette
Connilyn Cossette is the CBA-Bestselling author of the Out from Egypt Series and the Cities of Refuge Series from Bethany House Publishers. There is not much she enjoys more than digging into the rich, ancient world of the Bible, discovering new gems of grace that point to Jesus, and weaving them into an immersive fiction experience. She lives in North Carolina with her husband of over twenty years and a son and daughter who fill her days with joy, laughter, and inspiration. Connect with her at www.ConnilynCossette.com


A Wells Landing Christmas by Amy Lillard

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ABOUT THE BOOK

Families rejoicing together, caroling parties full of cheer, and church get-togethers brimming with delicious cooking and warm fellowship. Ivy Weaver would give anything to be a part of Christmas in Wells Landing. But one reckless mistake made her an outsider, and it's all she can do now to tend to her ailing grandfather and make a living. She sure doesn't need Zeb Brenneman returning to help after he abandoned her for no reason. He's working hard to make amends, but Ivy isn't sure there's enough faith--or still-sparking love between them--to stir her forgiveness . . .

Zeb knows leaving Ivy was the biggest mistake he's ever made. Even though she won't hear him out, he's determined to prove he's become the trustworthy, steadfast man she truly deserves. But bright new chances and surprising revelations will give him and Ivy choices they never imagined. And finding their way back to each other will be the most 
challenging--and precious--Christmas gift of all . .


MY REVIEW

This book was such a delight!!
To me, this is Amy Lillard's best yet!!
I read it in almost one sitting because I couldn't wait to turn the page and see what happened to Ivy, Zeb and Dawdi next. 
The author sure could write like I was with the family. I enjoyed their company and plus the food.
The Amish are wonderful cooks!!
Ivy is a lot like me. She stubborn and wants no help from no one. I also like her because she's a loner like me, but unlike me I didn't do what she did. I do enjoy people to a certain extent.
I loved Dawdi because he reminded me so much of my own grandfather. Especially towards the end of his life. This is where I admired Ivy a lot. I couldn't imagine taking on a whole lot like that. 
 Dawdi made me laugh throughout this book. This is especially why I loved him.
Zeb is beginning to grow up and take on a lot of responsibilities in which I admired. But like they always say, you can run but you can't hide. Especially from God. He always sees. 
There were some repetitive phrases that I didn't like. People can deny things all they want. But really what it all boils down to is God's plan for you. It's His will for He has a bigger plan for all of us.
I recommend this book for anyone who feels like they can't handle what life throws your way. Read what Ivy goes through. This book has some uplifting scenes and a few Bible verses as well. 
You won't want to put it down!!



ABOUT THE AUTHOR

I'm a wife, mother, and bona fide Southern belle. Published author, expert corn bread maker, and Squirrel Princess.
Amy Lillard
I live in Tulsa, though I was born in Mississippi. I moved to the Sooner State when I was seventeen and met my soul mate and best friend not long after. I've retained a little of my Mississippi accent though most people think I'm from Texas. (?) Rob and I have been married for over twenty years and have a son--a mom proclaimed prodigy, of course!

I love homemade tacos, nail polish, and romance novels--not necessarily in that order. I'm a big fan of country music, a staunch proponent of saving the Oxford comma, and I'm shamefully obsessed with all things Harry Potter.

I believe that God is love. I guess that's why I adore romances. 

I have always been intrigued with the Amish culture, their gentle ways and slower-paced lifestyle. (And I love, love, love the fact that they stay married for their lifetime.) But until recently I never thought to blend this interest with my penchant for romance. Okay, okay, I'm a bit old-fashioned and even enjoy the gender roles that are present in this culture. I love to cook and take care of my family. Yes, that's me June Cleaver with a laptop.

I dislike people trying to convince me to read the Twlight series (I'll get to it or I won't, either way I'm good with it), gratuitous violence, and strawberry ice cream. (I know I'm alone on this last one, and again, I'm good with it.)

Favorite movies--(besides HP) French Kiss, Maid of Honor, A Lot Like Love, Just Married, and Sweet Home Alabama. Oh, and Miss Congeniality, Sabrina (both versions) and a 1940's movie called Dear Ruth. If you haven't seen it, you should! A-dorable. Anything with Doris Day and most all of Marilyn's and Audrey's. 




The Songs that could have been by Amanda Wen

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