Tuesday, April 30, 2019

The Amish Widow's Rescue by Rachel J. Good

41717473



ABOUT THE BOOK

Pregnant and recently widowed, Grace Fisher is determined to provide for her family on her own. Thankfully, her jam business is popular in her Amish community. But it's difficult keeping up with her work, her farm chores, and her two mischievous children. Especially now that they've taken to idolizing their neighbor Elijah. While the handsome farmer is kind and generous, he seems intent on holding Grace and her little ones at a distance...


Elijah Beiler has always admired his neighbor Grace. So standing by while she struggles to support her family isn't an option. Offering to take over her farm duties, Elijah is determined to help while remaining detached. He knows all too well that love only leads to heartbreak. Yet the more time he spends with Grace and her children, the harder he finds it to leave each day. But can Elijah overcome past hurts and open his heart to this ready-made family?


MY REVIEW

I have been an avid reader of Rachel J. Good for a long time and she didn't disappoint me this time either!! I always look forward to her messages and stories.
Rachel J. Good does an awesome job in portraying these characters with their feelings, thoughts just like they were real life Amish families.
I enjoyed reading about how Grace works through her feelings about certain things in this story.
I think if that were to happen to me I'd be lost. I'd be lost in a different way. But, in a good way someone else will always be with me where ever I go. Jesus is my friend forever and ever.
Elijah is a gem. I just love him.
I love him Because of the type of man he is. Gentle, kind etc. 
We all have "skeletons." Each if us has a past but God can forgive. 
I think my favorite character is Miriam. I love her name and I love how she is a strong supporter in this story. Miriam has an awesome mind and she knows how to use it well and plus help Grace. 
I received this book from Netgalley and no compensations were received. All opinions are my own!!



ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Rachel J. GoodRachel J. Good grew up near Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, the setting for many of her Amish novels. Striving to be as authentic as possible, she spends time with her Amish friends, doing chores on their farm and attending family events.

Rachel loves to travel and visit many different Amish communities. In searching for the best Amish soft pretzels, she's visited many Amish markets, auctions, and mud sales. Because of her love of Amish food, she tries to include recipes in her books as often as possible. When she's not traveling, she spends time with family and writing. 

In addition to her Amish novels, she's written more than 40 books, including children's educational books, adult nonfiction, and fiction for children and teens under several pen names. To find out more about Rachel and her books, you can sign up for her newsletter: http://bit.ly/1qwci4Q

Rachel enjoys meeting readers and speaks regularly at book events, schools, libraries, churches, book clubs, and conferences across the country. She also loves talking about Amish life, using authentic Amish clothes and goods, and/or doing coloring parties.

You can connect with Rachel on her website (http://www.rachel-j-good) 


Monday, April 29, 2019

The Heart of a King by Jill Eileen Smith

42075476



ABOUT THE BOOK

Four women captured King Solomon's heart in different ways, and he indulges his desires despite warnings. For all his wisdom, did Solomon or the women he loved ever find what they were searching for?


MY REVIEW



Most of us knows the story of King Solomon and the wisdom God gave him.
I will never understand how he fell so far way from God. 
I like how this author delved deeper into the life of this king. She portrays his thoughts, feelings, and wants so very well!! 
I felt like he was in the room with me and looking over my shoulder reading along with me! Kind of creep y huh? Not really. 
I think it would be fascinating to meet Solomon. 
The only thing I wouldn't like is the many wives he had. I wouldn't want to share, so I knew how Naamah felt even though I didn't care much for her at first.
I never understood Siti nor did I like her.
Abishag was my favorite!! I think I would want her to be my friend. I feel like could tell her anything and she would understand. I loved her personality. 
I have read her story before but I still like hearing about her.
I also loved the way this author showed Solomon and how he sinned.
She showed his human side very well.
I'm pretty sure God was against polygamy. In his eyes there is only one marriage. 
I recommend this book very strongly!!
Jill is an amazing writer!!
I received this book with no compensations were received. All opinions are my own!!



ABOUT THE AUTHOR



Jill Eileen SmithJill Eileen Smith is the bestselling, award-winning author of the Wives of King David series, the Daughters of the Promised Land, the Wives of the Patriarchs, and The Loves of King Solomon series. Her research has taken her from the Bible to Israel, and she particularly enjoys learning how women lived in Old Testament times.

When she isn’t writing, she loves to spend time with her family and friends, read stories that take her away, ride her bike to the park, snag date nights with her hubby, try out new restaurants, or play with her lovable, “helpful” cat Tiger. Jill lives with her family in southeast Michigan.

Contact Jill through email (jill@jilleileensmith.com), her website (http://www.jilleileensmith.com), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/jilleileensmith), or Twitter (https://twitter.com/JillEileenSmith). 
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Where this Road Ends by Rebekah Colburn

39806431



ABOUT THE BOOK

Ella Mae Hutchins knows exactly what she wants from life. Getting it turns out to be much harder than she expects. She has only two dreams: to marry Daniel Evans and to become a successful novelist. When neither dream seems achievable, she sets out to build a life without either.


After all her efforts fail, Ella Mae returns to her hometown broken. Determined to start again, the last thing she expects is to encounter the man she blames for ruining her life.


Although age and suffering have changed them both, can she forgive Daniel for breaking her heart and is she brave enough to hope for a writing career in a time when female novelists are rare?


MY  REVIEW

Patience is a virtue. But for Ella Mae and me it isn't. They always say good things comes to those who wait and sometimes it's true. There's always that 1 percent it's not.
I included myself with Ella Mae because when it comes to having patience and then sometimes disappointments it's very heartbreaking at the time. 
I loved how this story connected with Jeremiah's time. Stubborn old coot!
Stories are a part of our history. Or maybe skeletons I should say. They can be wonderful or hurtful.
My grandparents were funny storytellers and with each telling however; they tended to change but I still loved them. Just like Ruth and Ella Mae do. 
I enjoyed the story a lot. There are some things in there that remind me a lot of my growing up years.
Men can be so stubborn!! I really don't understand how they survive sometimes especially when what they really need is right in front of them the whole time!! (Like Daniel)
When God shuts one door don't keep banging on it!! Maybe it's for our own good or maybe He has something better for us!! 
This story makes me want to visit Maryland and see these places! I love history! 
This author has done an excellent job with these characters. They are well rounded out and I really love the supporting characters.
I love especially Ella Mae's parents. In certain ways they remind me of my mom's parents always ready to welcome you home.
I strongly recommend this book.
I received a copy of this book with no compensations received. All opinions are my own!!



ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Rebekah Colburn is an historical fiction/romance novelist. Her desire is to bring history to life with rich stories, compelling characters, and inspirational themes which will inspire and encourage her readers.
Rebekah Colburn
She lives on the Eastern Shore of Maryland with her teen-aged daughter, rambunctious dog, and five spoiled cats. To learn more about Rebekah, you can visit her website at www.rebekahcolburn.weebly.com




Saturday, April 20, 2019

More than Words Can Say by Karen Witemeyer

42075360



ABOUT THE BOOK

After being railroaded by the city council, Abby needs a man's name on her bakery's deed, and a man she can control, not the stoic lumberman Zacharias who always seems to exude silent confidence. She cant even control her pulse when she's around him. But as trust grows between them, she finds she wants more than his rescue. She wants his heart.



MY REVIEW

If you want a book to read over the Holy Week then I feel that this is the perfect book for you. When you read it, you'll see why.
I like reading Karen's books because of the spiritual messages they offer. 
I love how she used the Bible as the word. I love Karen's books so very much!!!
This one did not disappoint. 
Some of the scenes in this book sort of reminds me of the rivalry between Laura Ingalls and Nellie Oleson. Some of which are laugh out loud funny!!
But then, some of them made me want to cry too!
Karen has made these characters that will be forever in your heart long after this book has closed.
I think Zac and Abby will remain with me becaise of their willingness to prove to the town that with God's help can overcome anything that is put before them. So perfect for each other!!
Zac certainly can be my hero anytime. Too bad he couldn't jump out of the book and be a real friend. "Swoon" worthy for sure!! 
I felt a "real"connection with Abby in so many ways. She's your down home or down to earth person I'd really like to get to know better
I loves the name Honey Bee Grove. Certainly different from anything around here unless you want to call Nonesuch Ky different lol
But overall, I loved the book. I hope the author writes many more!!
I received this book from Netgalley. No compensations were received and all opinions are my own
I do recommend this book for people who love some humor in their reading



ABOUT THE AUTHOR

For those who love to smile as they read, bestselling author Karen Witemeyer offers warmhearted historical romance with a flair for humor, feisty heroines, and swoon-worthy Texas heroes. A transplant from California, Karen came to Texas for college, met a cowboy disguised as a computer nerd, married him, and never left the state that had become home. 
Karen Witemeyer
Winner of the National Reader's Choice Award, HOLT Medallion, ACFW Carol Award, Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, and a finalist for both the RITA and Christy Awards, Karen is a firm believer in the power of happy endings. . . and ice cream. She also loves to reward her readers. Every month she gives away two inspirational historical novels to someone from her newsletter list and offers substantial bonus content on her website. To learn more about Karen and her books, or to join her subscriber list, please visit www.karenwitemeyer.com.


Song of Songs: A Novel of the Queen of Sheba
by Marc Graham

Publication Date: April 16, 2019
Blank Slate Press
Paperback; 400 Pages
Genre: Historical Fiction




Lift the veil of legend for the untold story of Makeda, the Queen of Sheba, and Bathsheba, wife and mother of Israel’s first kings. When Makeda, the slave-born daughter of the chieftain of Saba, comes of age, she wins her freedom and inherits her father's titles along with a crumbling earthwork dam that threatens her people's survival. When she learns of a great stone temple being built in a land far to the north, Makeda leads a caravan to the capital of Yisrael to learn how to build a permanent dam and secure her people's prosperity. On her arrival, Makeda discovers that her half-sister Bilkis (also known as Bathsheba) who was thought to have died in a long-ago flash flood, not only survived, but has become Queen of Yisrael. Not content with her own wealth, Bilkis intends to claim the riches of Saba for herself by forcing Makeda to marry her son. But Bilkis’s designs are threatened by the growing attraction between Makeda and Yetzer abi-Huram, master builder of Urusalim’s famed temple. Will Bilkis’s plan succeed or will Makeda and Yetzer outsmart her and find happiness far from her plots and intrigue?

Amazon | Barnes and Noble








MY REVIEW

I enjoyed this book for what it was. I loved the title of the book and because it was Biblical fiction, I wanted to check it out.
The author has done an amazing job of bringing these people to life. 
I have seen a side of Bethsheba that I never knew.
I also learned a lot and the author has actually made me feel like I was there. It was truly amazing how life was lived way back when and really it's not much different than it is today.
I didn't care for the beheading or the "other scenes" so I just skipped over them.
The Characters were well written too and I think I still like Bethsheba best. I don't know why.
P.S I love the story being told in 1st person. My most favorite genre ever!! I like this genre because I feel like I can connect with whoever is telling the story
I strongly recommend this book to whomever loves Biblical fiction like I do. I also think that this is the perfect book for learning about history because there's a lot of it!! 
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. No compensations were received and all opinions are my own!! 


About the Author







Marc Graham studied mechanical engineering at Rice University in Texas, but has been writing since his first attempt at science fiction penned when he was ten. From there, he graduated to knock-off political thrillers, all safely locked away to protect the public, before settling on historical fiction. His first novel, Of Ashes and Dust, was published in March 2017. He has won numerous writing contests including, the National Writers Assocation Manuscript Contest (Of Ashes and Dust), the Paul Gillette Memorial Writing Contest - Historical (Of Ashes and Dust, Song of Songs), and the Colorado Gold Writing Contest - Mainstream (Prince of the West, coming from Blank Slate Press in Fall 2019). He lives in Colorado on the front range of the Rocky Mountains, and in addition to writing, he is an actor, narrator, speaker, story coach, shamanic practitioner, and whisky afficianado (Macallan 18, one ice cube). When not on stage or studio, in a pub, or bound to his computer, he can be found hiking with his wife and their Greater Swiss Mountain Dog.




Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads



Blog Tour Schedule


Tuesday, April 16 Review & Interview at Passages to the Past Wednesday, April 17 Review at Pursuing Stacie Feature at The Caffeinated Bibliophile Thursday, April 18 Review at Bookfever Excerpt at Maiden of the Pages Friday, April 19 Feature at What Is That Book About Guest Post & Excerpt at To Read, Or Not to Read Saturday, April 20 Excerpt at Spellbound by History Monday, April 22 Review at Historical Fiction with Spirit Tuesday, April 23 Review at 100 Pages a Day Wednesday, April 24 Review at A Chick Who Reads Thursday, April 25 Feature at Let Them Read Books Guest Post at Myths, Legends, Books & Coffee Pots Friday, April 26 Review at Red Headed Book Lady Tuesday, April 30 Review & Excerpt at Clarissa Reads it All Wednesday, May 1 Review at Library of Clean Reads Friday, May 3 Review at Historical Fiction Reviews Monday, May 6 Review at Just One More Chapter Tuesday, May 7 Feature at CelticLady's Reviews Thursday, May 9 Excerpt at Kimber Li Friday, May 10 Review at History from a Woman’s Perspective Monday, May 13 Review at Curling up by the Fire Tuesday, May 14 Review at Amy's Booket List Wednesday, May 15 Feature at Donna's Book Blog Friday, May 17 Review at Coffee and Ink Interview at Myths, Legends, Books & Coffee Pots


Giveaway


During the Blog Tour, we will be giving away two paperback copies of Song of Songs! To enter, please use the Gleam form below. Giveaway Rules – Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm EST on May 17th. You must be 18 or older to enter. – Giveaway is open to the US & Canada only. – Only one entry per household. – All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspicion of fraud is decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion. – The winner has 48 hours to claim prize or new winner is chosen. Song of Songs

Tuesday, April 16, 2019

A Silken Thread by Kim Vogel Sawyer

40750628


ABOUT THE BOOK

For readers who love a heartwarming romance and a rich historical setting comes a tale of a young woman with a heavy burden, the International Cotton Exposition, and the pursuit of true love.

Eighteen-year-old Laurel Millard, youngest of seven children, is expected to stay home and "take care of Mama" by her older siblings, but Laurel has dreams of starting her own family. Operating a silk loom at the Atlanta Exposition will give her the chance to capture the heart of a man wealthy enough to take care of Laurel and any children she might bear, as well as her mother.

Langdon Rochester's parents have given him an ultimatum: settle down with a wife or lose his family inheritance. At the Exposition, Langdon meets Laurel. Marrying her would satisfy his parents's command, she would look lovely on his arm for social events, and in her besotted state, he believes she would overlook him continuing pursuing rowdy adventures with his unmarried buddies. Langdon decides to woo Laurel. Willie Sharp is not well-off and must take on an extra job at the Atlanta Exposition as a security guard. When mischief-makers cause trouble in the Women's Building, Willie is put in charge of keeping the building secure. He enjoys visiting with Laurel, who seems like the little sister he never had, but his feelings for Laurel change to something much deeper. Can Willie convince Laurel that he can give her better life--even with so little to offer? 


MY REVIEW

As always Kim has written another wonderful book! I'm always looking forward to seeing what she comes out with next!
I did learn something new about the cotton exposition since I didn't know it even existed. This is why I love historical fiction because I'm always learning something new.
I hated to see this story end. 
Laurel is such a delight! I enjoyed her immensely! Her character is a strong in Faith and I love her personality!
I did hate how her brother and sisters treated her. I think everyone should take care of each other. I didn't like how the older brother thought he was better than everyone else. 
I couldn't imagine having that many kids but I can relate to that because my dad came from a large family.
Willie was pretty special in my book.
I loved Willie. I loved that he stood up for what he believed in
It reminds of me of Aaron Tipons song you've got to stand up for what you believe in and not fall for anything else.
I guess I'm lucky not to be part of the rich society. I'd be a very unhappy person. I wouldn't fit in because of my beliefs.
I wish everyone would just get along.
It is what Jesus wants us to do.
I enjoyed this book to the fullest and I am grateful for Netgalley for allowing me to read an early copy.
All opinions are my own and no compensations were received 


Kim Vogel SawyerABOUT THE AUTHOR

Award-winning, bestselling author Kim Vogel Sawyer told her kindergarten teacher that someday people would check out her book in the library. The little-girl dream came true in 2006 with the release of Waiting for Summer's Return. Kim's titles now exceed 1.5 million copies and are available in six different language. A former elementary school teacher, she now enjoys a full-time writing and speaking ministry. Kim's passion lies in writing stories that point the reader to a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. When Kim isn't writing, you'll find her traveling with her retired military hubby, spoiling her granddarlings, petting the cats, quilting, or--as time allows--participating in community theater. You can learn more about Kim's writing and speaking ministries at her website, KimVogelSawyer.com


The Refuge by Ann H. Gabhart

42244975


ABOUT THE BOOK

When Darcie and Walter Goodwin hear of a new cholera epidemic sweeping the area, they join the Shakers whose villages seem immune to the disease. It's meant to be a temporary stay, but Walter is killed in a riverboat accident. With no family and no money, Darcie has little choice but to stay with the Shakers. To complicate matters, she is expecting a baby conceived before she and her husband came to the Shaker village. Marital relationships are considered sinful in this celibate community, putting Darcie in a unique--and lonely--position. Can the arrival of widower Flynn Keller and his headstrong daughter offer Darcie the hope of happiness . . . and family?

Ann H. Gabhart returns to the enigmatic world of the Shakers in this emotional exploration of the power of love and the bond of family. 



MY REVIEW

This book was so very good that I couldn't put it down!! I'd give it 10 stars if I could!!
Once you open this book you'll be taken back to Harmony Hill in 1850. I love to time travel like this!! 
Ann is a wonderful writer and I always look forward to what she will write next! 
Prayer is certainly powerful my friends. God always answers just not the way we want him to. His ways are not ours. 
I love talking to God. I don't always do it on a daily basis but I do try before my day starts and when my day ends. Sometimes I even pray for my coworkers and the customers that sometimes come through with their attitude. Does this remind you of a certain someone in the story?
I have no idea why people bully others or just want to torment them. But even bullies can change. It's like praying for your enemy. 
I learned quite a bit from the Shakers. I don't like some of their ways. I won't name some of them because that will be giving away some of the story. But, it's a wonder!! 
In some ways they remind me of the Amish. Wanting to be in the world but not of it. 
I loved Sister Darcie although I just called her plain Darcie. She's patient even when she doesn't feel like it sometimes (like me) and is always willing to work with people. Darcie is special. 
Eldress Maria is a character unlike any other. When you read this book you'll see what I"m talking about!! But, in the end I ended up loving her too. 
Sister Genna the ever practical sister. I think I liked her the most because of her no nonsense attitude. I loved her support for Darcie when she first came to the village. 
And then there's Sister Ellie!! Lord, I felt like she was my big sister. The sister I always wanted! I felt like I could come to her and tell her anything.
Shakertown is one of my most favorite places in Kentucky to visit. I recommend y'all to visit this author's blog to get a tour of this wonderful place or even just to come to Kentucky to visit the place itself!! 
I recommend this book very strongly. You will learn some wonderful things about these people of the past. 
I received a copy from Netgalley and all opinions are my own!! 


ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Ann H. GabhartAnn H. Gabhart grew up on a farm in Kentucky. By the time she was ten she knew she wanted to be a writer. She's published over twenty novels. She and her husband have three children and nine grandchildren. She still lives on a farm not far from where she grew up. She loves playing with her grandkids, walking with her dog, reading and, of course, writing. Her Shaker books, set in her fictional Shaker village of Harmony Hill in the 1800's, are popular with readers. The Outsider was a Christian Fiction Book Award Finalist in 2009. Her Heart of Hollyhill books are Small Town, America books set in the 1960's. Angel Sister, a Rosey Corner book set during the Great Depression, will be followed by Small Town Girl. Visit Ann's website http://annhgabhart.com or her two blogs, One Writer's Journal, www.annhgabhart.blogspot.com, and the Hollyhill Book of the Strange, www.hollyhillbookofthestrange.blogspo.... Giveaways several times a year. 

Wednesday, April 10, 2019

The Golden Bride by Kimberly Woodhouse

40738373



ABOUT THE BOOK

Can Olivia survive the crime and Gold Rush fever of 1849...and the countless marriage proposals?
A series for fans of all things related to history, romance, adventure, faith, and family trees.

The Daughters of the Mayflower series continues when Olivia Brighton finds herself widowed and working her brother’s restaurant in San Francisco during the height of the rush for gold. Even though she receives at least twenty marriage proposals a day, she will never marry a gold miner. Her brother’s friend Joseph Sawyer has gotten caught up in local politics and the plight of Chinese in forced labor. The more Joseph gets pulled into investigating crime in the city, the less Olivia sees of the compassionate man. And just when she thinks she could love again, a fire threatens to steal all hope. 


MY REVIEW

Wow!! What a wonderful message this author has weaved into this fantastic story!!.
I love this book in the whole series best so far!! 
This author has also added some mystery, a little action and a whole lot more to make u sit on the edge of your seat to see what will happen next!!
Olivia astounds me!! I have loved watching her change in this book. 
Isn't God wonderful my friends? 
He will never forsake us nor leave us and if we let Him guide us through our lives I think it would be much easier to get though life. Too often we want to do things on our own and not keep our eyes on the Lord.
I wished I had a big brother like Daniel. He's awesome! I love his get go and get things done. 
Mr. Sawyer I especially like!! Mmm hmmm!! My my!! He has a great personality and I love his protective side. I like how he doesn't flaunt his wealth around town and he's your normal down to earth guy. I just can't say enough good things about him!!
All in all I did learn some things about San Francisco I never knew.
This is why I love reading historical fiction 


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kimberley WoodhouseKimberley Woodhouse is the best-selling author of more than twenty books who loves the JOY of story. A lover of history and research, she often gets sucked into the past and then her husband has to lure her out with chocolate. She's spoken to more than 800,000 people at more than 2,000 venues and has taught the craft of writing around the country. Married to the love of her life for twenty-five plus years, she makes her home in Montana. You can connect with Kimberley at: www.kimberleywoodhouse.comwww.facebook.com/KimberleyWoodhouseAu...


Friday, April 5, 2019

The Bishop's Daughter by Patricia Johns

41188030


ABOUT THE BOOK

As a bishop's daughter and good Amish mother, widowed Sadie Hochstetler teaches her young son that God blesses those who try their best to please Him. But her brief marriage taught her that life is infinitely more complicated than that. Older, and serious, her late husband seemed a sensible choice--especially compared to Elijah Fisher, the spirited boy with whom she butted heads and hearts. Then Elijah abruptly left for the Englisher world, taking Sadie's beloved brother along with him--a double betrayal she still strives to forgive. Especially now that Elijah has returned . . .

Elijah plans to stay in the Amish community only as long as he's needed, helping his family and working for Sadie's ailing father. The outside world has changed him, leading him to question rules and restrictions that others take on faith. Once, he'd been head over heels in love with the bishop's daughter--a girl he was judged unworthy of courting. Nine years have changed so much between them. Yet something remains--a spark that, for all their differences, might light the way home again .

MY REVIEW

Love is the main theme here. A wonderful theme I might add. 
Love is patient, Love is Kind. But it's easier said than done. For some parents it is hard to show love where their kids are concerned. Others want only the best for their kids. 
While other still yet don't want the responsibility to take care of their kids. 
This story kind of hit home with me because it sort of reminds of the life I had with my parents. They provided for me ok but they never really cared for me because my dad said quote I wasn't his by blood. Mom later in life it was like she gave up on herself. She stayed sick a lot
But I learned a hard lesson just like Elijah. Home is where the heart is and where your family is no matter the situation you ran away from. I wanted to reach through the story and give Elijah the hug and love he so desperately needed. But I also wanted to choke him because I got so tired of him and Sadie telling each other they weren't meant for each other. I felt like Groundhog day the movie in this book!! 
I can't imagine a man not loving me but I guess it can happen. I kept wanting to kick Sadie in the butt to see what was right in front if her before it was too late. Thank the Lord God He works in mysterious ways!!
You can't shove away what's meant to be. It's all part of God's bigger plan for all of us. Even if we can't see it at the time.
Some us are just so set in our ways that we are comfortable. We're too afraid to take that big step outside our comfort zone like some of the Amish were. 
Traditions can be good but they can also be harmful. There wouldn't be any room to grow as needed.
For the most part, I really enjoyed the book except for the repetitive parts. I'm still giving this book 5 stars because I do love a good Amish novel. They are an interesting people and some of us can learn from them
An oh my!! I just love the name Absolom!! Oh sooooooo gorgeous of a name! It's an usual name and I thought he lived up to his name in this story!
I hope there's a sequel to this book because Elijah and Sadie have more to tell!!
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley. No compensations were received and all opinions are my own.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Patricia JohnsPatricia Johns has her Honors BA in English Literature from University of Toronto. She writes from Alberta, Canada, where she lives with her husband and son. 


An Amish Reunion

40589768



ABOUT THE BOOK

An Amish Reunion


by 
 4.53  ·   Rating details ·  34 ratings  ·  27 reviews
From bestselling authors in the Amish genre come four stories about reuniting with those you love.

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 her 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 Hannah 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 Phillip 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 loved this book. I liked it because there are 4 different stories all of them about a reunion of some type or other. There's something in these novellas for all different types of people. 
I used to not like these stories until I found out that some are a continuation of several of my favorite books by certain authors.  Here are two I never tire of hearing about and Cevilla is my most favorite character of all. I love her spunk, ability to love and help others no matter the need. And, I'm also pretty sure she still looks good even after all these years!! She reminds of my own grandmother on my mom's side. Here are my two favorites that I enjoyed:
  
A Chance to Remember by Kathleen Fuller
I love Kathleen's stories about Cevilla because she's an interesting person.
I enjoyed this novella but problem is it's too short!! It's like there's more left waiting to be told!!
I feel you're never too old to love again or to be loved. God has his reasons. I love to think that maybe someday that Cevilla will marry the love of her life. I just hope it's not too late for either of them!!
Next up is Mended Hearts by Kelly Irvin!! Now this is an author you must definitely read!! She is on my long list of favorite authors to read!!

Mended Hearts is another 2nd chance at love story!! 
I really admire Hannah!! She has taken a lot of the brunt while a certain someone runs away. Ain't that like most men? Men that don't wanna take responsibility?
I guess it takes a lot for some men to grow up and take responsibility. We know of one such person don't we? 
This why I like Kelly's writing. I could actually feel these characters pain throughout this novella. I 
But God has a way of working things out doesn't he. I enjoyed watching these two change their ways and I just loved little Eve. I could her Eve when she's happy or howls lol!
 
I strongly recommend this book for ppl who love to read Amish Romances in one book.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher with no compensations received. All opinions are my own!

Thursday, April 4, 2019

The Mennonite Queen

44547497



ABOUT THE BOOK

Isabella, Princess of Poland, is raised to a life of great wealth and leisure in the Polish Royal Court, destined to marry a king. But fate or divine providence intervenes when she meets Johan Hirschberg, a young Anabaptist who works in her father’s stable. This chance meeting leads the young couple into a forbidden love. Together they flee Poland and embark on a dangerous journey that brings them, after great peril, to the small parish of a troubled priest named Menno Simons. Catholic Bishop, Franz von Waldek, paid by King Sigismund, Isabella’s father to find the princess at all costs, pursues them across Europe. Isabella does not know it, but if von Waldek captures her, she will have to make a choice that will change the course of European history forever. 

MY REVIEW

Wow! Wow!! This will blow your mind away!! Really and truly it will!! 
If any of you has read this man's work he is just super with his writings!!! 
I'm just truly stunned!! This is unlike any Amish story y'all have read!!
He brings the Anabaptist to life so well!! 
I think my favorite scene was in Munster Germany. ( Well, not really). The prediction of the Lord's return
For no one knows not the time or the hour of when He'll come. If He returned back then we wouldn't be here today. 
The word Karma comes to mind in the city of Munster. I won't say more. I don't want to spoil the story.
There are two wonderful people who I feel like life has dealt them a terrible blow. They were your real life down to earth people. 
Johann and Isabella. They are also my favorite people.
Johann and Isabella. I loved their strength and watching them grow into what They were meant to be.
The way that the author described the king's best horse reminded me of the Black stallion in Walter Farley's books. It was like seeing him in another time and place.
I really recommend for all who love Amish, Mennonites to read this story. It will make you stop and think long after this book is finished!! I also think you'll love it as much as I did!!! 
I received a ecopy from the publisher. No compensations were received. All opinions are my own
Oh and some places in this story will make your mouth fall open too!! 
P.S. y'all will need tissures by your side. Tears are falling as I write this review. No book has ever made me cry quite like this one has!! It will be at the top of my favorite Amish books. 


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Patrick E. CraigBest-selling Author Patrick E. Craig is a lifelong writer and musician who left a successful career in the music industry after two albums on Warner Brothers Records and years of live performances in one of San Francisco's most popular music groups to follow Christ in 1984. He spent the next twenty-six years as a worship leader, seminar speaker and pastor in churches, retreats, seminars and conferences in the Western United States. In 2013 Harvest House published the first of his Apple Creak Dreams series, A Quilt For Jenna, followed by The Road Home and Jenny's Choice. A Quilt For Jenna recently moved into the #1 bestseller in Amish Fiction on Amazon. His new book, The Amish Heiress is the first in his new series, The Paradise Chronicles.

Patrick is represented by the Steve Laube Agency


The Songs that could have been by Amanda Wen

ABOUT THE BOOK Two couples in love. Two sets of impossible circumstances. One powerful God of grace. After a tailspin in her late teens, Lau...