Convenient Amish Proposal by Jan Drexler

ABOUT THE BOOK

Suddenly a Mother

When Bethany Zook’s childhood friend returns to Indiana Amish country a widower, with an adorable little girl in tow, she’s willing to aid him in any way. But there’s just one thing Andrew Yoder needs—a mother for little Mari. And he seems convinced Bethany is the answer, just as she’s sure any union between them would be one strictly of convenience…

Andrew thought Bethany had married another. Now, determined to keep Mari despite his mother-in-law’s interference, he offers Bethany marriage in name only. But she’s quickly becoming more than a housekeeper and a mamm. Can he leave the past behind to claim a family of the heart?

MY REVIEW

I just can't say enough good things about this book! Jan has delivered once again with a story of marriage of convenience that is set in the Depression times. A time that my grandparents lived in. I can't imagine how life was then after the stock market crash. I knew it had to be hard. 

I loved this book from beginning to end and I highly recommend it. 

This author knows how to deliver a powerful read with Amish and Historical mixed together with the right combination and will leave this book reader wanting more!! It will stay on my keeper shelf. 

Rose reminds me of someone I know all too well. I perfectly understand why she did it but sometimes it's hard to let someone else take control even when they know sometimes what's best or think they know what's best. 

I loved dear Bethany and her family. She's so very kind and patient! I wish I were more like her. I'm not a very patient person. 

I actually found myself praying for Andrew and Mari lol even though I know they are characters in a book. Have you ever found yourself doing that? 

I love a good story especially if it's inspired by an author's relative. I think it makes it even better because it gives us an insight to that author's life. 

I also believe grandmother's are special. I lost mine in 2002. I still miss her to this day. 

You will enjoy this book very much especially if you love Amish and Historical mixed together.

I strongly recommend this book! Jan is such an excellent writer!! 

My thanks to the author for a complimentary copy of this book and NO compensations were recieved. All opinions are my own. 

I think it's absolutely amazing that Jan has a rich history like that. I will say, that since I'm adopted I have no idea who my relatives are.  Maybe God has a reason for that I don't know.  All I know is that he's mighty and wonderful and His ways aren't always ours even when we think they should be.

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jan Drexler brings a unique understanding of Amish traditions and beliefs to her writing. Her ancestors were among the first Amish, Mennonite, and Brethren immigrants to Pennsylvania in the 1700s, and their experiences are the inspiration for her stories. Jan lives in the Black Hills of South Dakota with her husband of thirty-five years, where she enjoys hiking in the Hills and spending time with their expanding family. (less)

Fudge Bites by Nancy Coco

ABOUT THE BOOK

Halloween on Mackinac Island is a season of fun tricks, but finding a corpse is no treat for fudge shop owner Allie McMurphy . . .

 

NIGHT OF THE REALLY DEAD

 

It’s late October, off-season for tourists, but locals are up and lurching for the annual zombie walk charity event. Though everyone’s living it up, trouble is a just a few pawprints away. Allie’s followed the bloody tracks of her calico cat, Carmella, to a body in the alley behind the Historic McMurphy Hotel and Fudge Shop. Unlike the island’s other walking dead, this one’s flatlined for good. It seems that someone is using the zombie fest as the perfect backdrop for murder. Now amateur sleuth Allie and dreamboat officer Rex Manning must use every trick in their treat bag to unmask a killer in disguise. 

MY REVIEW

Let me start off by saying Thank you Deanne Patterson for recommending this book.

I went to read what it was about and I knew I agreed with her. I love any setting with Mackinac Island involved!

1st off let me start with if you've never been to Mackinac Island you must go!! I've labeled this my happy place. And the Fudge oh my!! Last time we had fudge was in 2005. It never made it off the island!! It was gone that quick!! And of course as u know there isn't much to begin with!!

You will drool for the fudge throughout this book and be hooked instantaneously from the beginning!

A mystery that will keep you guessing from the start and it isnt who you thought it first was!! 

Wonderful characters and a cool fudgemaker with two adorable pets. 

I loved every minute of this book. Why? Becajse I felt like I was back in my happy place of course!! Yum yum!! 

This last trip we didn't get to go so this more than made up for it!!

Thank you Nancy Coco!! 

I recommend this book if you want to take a trip to Mackinac and can't get there! This book will tale u there!!

My thanks to Netgalley for a review copy and NO compensations were received. All opinions are my own.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Nancy Coco is the acclaimed author of the Candy-Coated Mysteries, the Oregon Honeycomb Mystery series, a number of romantic suspense novels, Western historical romances, and four additional mystery series written under the name Nancy J. Parra. An Air Force veteran who rose to the rank of sergeant, Nancy is a member of an online group of female veterans called RomVets: Military Women Who Have Turned Sword to Pen (RomVets.com). She is also a member of Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime. Nancy lives in Oregon with a Bichonpoo affectionately known as “Little Dog” on Facebook and Twitter. Visit her online at www.NancyJCoco.com.

new beginnings at promise lodge by Charlotte Hubbard

ABOUT THE BOOK

Spring blossoms with new life and new beginnings for the flourishing Amish community of Promise Lodge. And as a just-opened bakery sweetens the air with fresh-baked goodness, residents will find that change can be a most joyous test . . .

Recently widowed after twenty years of marriage, Frances Lehman is only just tasting the freedom and opportunity that her Promise Lodge friends enjoy. So she's not about to be pressured into marriage by her widowed brother-in-law, even if she and her daughter have no real means of support. Much more promising is her new friendship with Preacher Marlin Kurtz, though their respective families don't see their relationship as proper . . .

When Frances suffers a serious injury, she's determined to prove she can recover--and remain

independent--without burdening Marlin. Now, with his steadfast belief in real love tested, Marlin's hope is that Promise Lodge's irrepressible residents can help him restore Frances's joy--and that faith will show them a way to turn their fragile second chance into a blessed and abiding future together . . .

MY REVIEW

I was eagerly awaiting this book and it didn't disappoint. I really enjoyed going back to Promise Lodge. I was happy to see that all of my old friends were still there.

Frances was a gem! I'd love to have her as my mamm. Gloria doesn't realize how lucky she is! I'm going to call her a brat!!  I can understand some of her dilemma because some changes aren't as easy as they seem. Even at her age.

Her mom is just trying to make ends meet as best as she can and her daughter doesn't make it easy. Especially when her brother in law gets her involved.

However; I don't condone lying to just to get someone in trouble by making yourself look good.

Lying can hurt the person that was lied about if that makes sense. That too will not earn friends because the next time you do it it will be hard to trust that person again. Fortunately there is forgiveness. But you have to really mean it. The Amish forgive but deep down do they really?

I believe in 2nd chances at love. I know that Amish remarry sometimes after losing the other spouse because depending on the situation they remarry for convenience. But I think in this case there was never a more surer love that between Frances and Marlin. I think they would make a couple!! I actually could feel a " spark between them"

I also felt the love and support from the community of Promise Lodge after a terrible accident befell Frances. I felt myself wanting to pray for her.

I really didn't like France's brother in law. There was too much going on with him in his personal life and it rubbed off onto others.

I do strongly recommend this book especially if you've eagerly anticipated it as I have. It won't disappoint. Charlotte has woven her magical pen once again

and has created a fantastic story one that readers will be sure to enjoy.

My thanks to the publisher for a complementary copy of this book. NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Drawing upon her experiences in Jamesport, the largest Old Order Amish community west of the Mississippi, longtime Missourian Charlotte Hubbard (a.k.a. Naomi King) writes of simpler times and a faith-based lifestyle in her new Seasons of the Heart series. Like her heroine, Miriam Lantz, Charlotte considers it her personal mission to feed people—to share hearth and home. Faith and family, farming and food preservation are hallmarks of her lifestyle, and the foundation of her earlier Angels of Mercy series. She’s a deacon, a dedicated church musician and choir member, and when she’s not writing, she loves to try new recipes, crochet, and sew. Charlotte now lives in Minnesota with her husband and their border collie. 

Hamelin Stoop The Eagle, the Cave, and the Footbridge by Robert B. Sloan

About the book

Afraid of being caught by trackers from another world, a young mother abandons her baby boy in a tomato box inside the screened porch of a children's home. The staff at the orphanage name him Hamelin Stoop, but he grows up longing to learn his real name, find his parents, and thus discover his true identity.

Life is not easy for Hamelin. He belongs to everyone, though in some ways to no one fully. And the people he is closest to leave him one by one. A letter from an older friend advises Hamelin to "keep waiting and keep hoping." Bitter experiences force Hamelin to wait, but he has to learn how to hope.

When the children's home forgets his eighth birthday, he sneaks away at night. He soon discovers that he isn't just running away -- he is being summoned by the Ancient One. Guided by the Great Eagle through a mysterious cave, Hamelin must pass a dangerous test of courage before he can find his parents.

Hamelin's failures, fears, and hopes become part of a larger story, a story of a great struggle between worlds and kingdoms where the old myths of magic, evil contracts, and enslaved children turn out to be real. 

MY REVIEW

Wow!! What a great story!! It held me captivated most of the night and when I looked up it was daylight! I thought wow! Where did the night go lol!

But really I truly enjoyed what was happening in the book. In fact I was in the book itself! I was at the mouth of the cave right along with Ben, Layla and Hamelin and wanting to fall into it! Now that was creepy!

I immediately loved the older couple that moved into rhe children's home except that I couldn't stand the lady's sing songy voice. For some reason it grated on my nerves! I guess cause I could actually hear her doing it!! I will say she did have a heart of gold!

This series in a way reminds me of the Harry Potter series but much better!!

The author has done a great job on this book on bringing the characters to life and taking me along for the ride.

This is a young adult book but I still liked it because it was a refreshing read. I loved it too that it was told in 1st person ( I can connect better when it's told in 1st person) and not present tense. A very delicious and delightful read!

My thanks to the publisher for an early read of this book NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Robert B. Sloan is known for his leadership in higher education, public speaking and non-fiction writings. He has spoken and written about topics both popular and technical. He has been a professor, minister, Little League coach, small business owner, school board trustee and chairman, chairman of the board of an NYSE company, and a university president for over 20 years. After 12 years of work, he has finished his first fiction piece (Hamelin Stoop)--something he had always wanted to do. Robert is a native Texan, but has enjoyed living in New Jersey, England, and Germany. He is married to his college sweetheart, Sue, and they have seven married children and 20 young grandchildren. They enjoy large family gatherings, which include good food and lively conversation, games, and storytelling.

Mind of Mine by C.F.E Black

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Mind of Mine

By C. F. E. Black
Young Adult SciFi
Paperback & ebook, 302 Pages
August 7th 2019 by Illuminate YA

Raised to put science over self, V must link her brain with fifteen other people, making her one of the world’s smartest humans. With this privilege comes a life dedicated to continual research inside a secluded facility, a life devoid of freedom.

But V is losing her identity and unable to predict which face will peer back at her from the nearest mirror. Escaping this life will mean freedom to think for herself—and abandoning everything and everyone she’s known and loved.

When your thoughts and speech are no longer private, freedom comes at a price. But for V the price may be her
life.

(Affiliate links included.)

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository




MY REVIEW

A wonderful debut by C.F.E Black and a new to me author!!

This is more of a YA and if you love sci-fi then this is for you. A great mixture of both!! I kind of got out of reading this type of genere when I went to Christian fiction. An excellent treat to go back to.

Wow!! Imagine linking your mind to 15 of the smartest people in the world!! Jeez! I have enough to keep up with without adding someone else!! I wouldn't want to do that. I like being me just the way God intended for me to be!! To me, that is asking for more trouble than you bargained for!!

Time will slip by while reading this book so be ready to read all night or day whichever you prefer.

I will say that this author has a unique style of writing and a way of bringing these people to life as if they were real! I could actually imagine myself in the book along with V and her adventures

My thanks to Prism Tours for a complimentary copy of the book. No compensations were received and all opinions are my own!! 

About the Author



If you're a teen, I work for you.
I write for you. I teach for you.

Seven days a week I seek to shine light into the world-darkened lives of young people, whether it be in a high school Spanish class, a youth group Sunday school class, or a coffee shop with my computer writing my next book.

I want my writing to be a bright spot on a dark shelf, a source of truth among many lies. You guys deserve books like this.

I live in north Alabama with my son, two droopy hound dogs, a cat named Sprinkles, and my superhero husband. No, really, he saved my life once. It’s a cool story.

If you want to know more about me, my writing, or my escapades as a teacher, please visit my blog.

Mind of Mine is my first novel.

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my other half of 2019 top ten summer reads

Since the summer is over now I thought I'd go ahead and share some of the rest of my summer reads that I really loved!! So hang on to your hats here goes!!

1. Under Moonlight Skies by Cynthia Roemer

I picked this one because I love Cynthia Roemer's works!! I know a good story when I see one and I will recommend it to other people who love to read these kinds of stories. In this one she takes us on an awesome faith filled journey and with rip roaring adventures at every turn! Exactly what I look for in a book!! I finished this in one night. I like to read at night after everyone is asleep lol!! 

Great job Cynthia!! 

2. Recovered Secrets by Jessica R. Patch

I enjoy this author a lot too!! If you want action packed with twists and turns and yes even faith to fill your soul while reading this then this is definitely the suspense book for you!! Jessica is amazing at what she does and she does it very well.  This is a short read but the plot will make you lose yourself before you know what is happening!! Your family members may have to call you a half a dozen times but hey it's well worth it!! 

Well done Jessica Patch!!

3. New Beginnings at Promise Lodge 

Here's definitely a good author that knows how to write awesome Amish Stories!! 

I was eagerly awaiting this one and it sure didn't disappoint!! This is a book that if you believe in love at 2nd chances and adding some humor in the story. 

You'll love these awesome characters and feel the love of the community as they help one of their own.  This is what I love about Amish communities. I strongly recommend this one for sure but then all Amish books that I've read are wonderful!! Be sure to order a copy of this book!! It's oh sooooo good!! 

Charlotte Hubbard you've really wowed me with this sweet book!! 

4. Broken Strings by Eric Walters and Kathy Kacer

I strongly recommend this book even though it is aimed at the Young Adults but anyone can read it! I did and I enjoyed it immensely!! Be sure to have a box of tissues by you as read this one because you'll be bawling like a baby!! I know I did!! This has the 9/11 and the Holocaust together. You won't want to miss this one! I promise that it will tear your heart out! 

I can't say enough about this book. It seems in times of disaster or other goings on, I think it's great that people come together from all walks of life to help one another. Why can't we do this all the time? The world would be so much better off!! 

5. Lake Season ( Bluebell Inn Romance #1) by Denise Hunter

Denise Hunter writes the most amazing books!! I was captivated from the moment that I opened this book and loved every minute of it!! I reached the ending before I knew it! You'll meet some great people and will make friends with them. Bluebell Inn has the most fascinating history!! you'll just have to read it to find out what! 

I really enjoyed the way this book spoke to me. I strongly recommend this book!! 

Denise Hunter thank you for a wonderful book!! 

Good job I loved it!! 

6. Sweet Melody: A Seabrook Romance by Heidi McCahan 

A book that owns up to it's name in true fashion form!! This book will make you drool for all the sweets that are in the story.

I felt this author speaking to my heart because I went through a similar experience as one the main characters. This a positive reminder that even though someone has done us wrong that we still need to forgive. We don't know how someone has been raised, taught or whatever the case may be. Forgiving is hard but I had to do it to give me a peace of mind if nothing else. It is what Jesus wants. 

I strongly recommend this book. I"m hoping that when you pick it up it will leave your heart feeling full as it has mine.

Heidi McCahan super story!! 

7. As The Light Fades by Catherine West

I love how Catherine has written this book. I loved that it was faith filled and it left my heart feeling full and thinking about it long after the book was finished!! 

I love that this author has pulled off a very deep subject that isn't talked about much in Christian fiction. 

This book will make you laugh, cry, and be fearful for the people in this wonderful book. The setting of the book couldn't be more perfect! I enjoy visiting Nantucket Island in books of course! 

Maybe someday my family and I can visit. But for now, books will have to do. And that's ok!! 

Awesome job Catherine West!! 

8.Deborah by H.B. Moore

If you love Biblical fiction as I do then you'll enjoy this book very much!! I love that some of my favorite authors and this one is included can take a context or story out of the Bible and bring some of these characters to life!! This story is taken out of the book of Judges. Deborah was the 4th prophet of Israel. I enjoyed this story very much! It's like you can feel God's anger coming right out of the book at the Canaanites!!  

Another late night read because I was so captivated by this story! Deborah sure had a lot riding on her shoulders!! 

Well done HB Moore!! 

9. The Deep by Alma Katsu

Does this ship look familiar? Of course it does!! She's the late great Titanic!! 

It was one of the reason that I chose this book to read. I love anything about Titanic and her sisters! 

Britannic is in here also! I love loved this book! I felt kind of confused at first because I wasn't sure what sister I was on at the beginning. But it turned to be an great read! I could feel the ship's personalities coming at me through the book. Such pain Titanic was in as she was sinking!! I think Britannic was dead on impact however. But still a delight to read. I took a break from my normal reading. I will add that some places in this book will make the hairs stand up on the back of your neck. A kind of creepy feeling!! 

Well done Alma Katsu!! 

10. When Mountains Sing by Stacy Monson

Last but not least, here's When Mountains Sing. I really enjoyed this book mainly because I had thought I shut a part of my life off.  But Stacy has managed to bring it back to me. I felt so connected to the main character that I felt she could've been my twin sister.! I really recommend this book. 

It will take you on a wonderful journey and leave you thinking about it long after you close the book! 

Great job Stacy!! 

These are the last of my favorite top 10 books this summer!! I've had some wonderful adventures with each of these books! My thanks to the publishers and authors who've let me read and review these swell books! 

A Glitter of Gold by Liz Johnson

ABOUT THE  BOOK

A Glitter of Gold

(Georgia Coast Romance #2)

by 

Liz Johnson (Goodreads Author) (Preface)

 4.64  ·   Rating details ·  111 ratings  ·  95 reviews

When pirate wreck tour guide Anne Norris finds evidence of an undiscovered shipwreck, she seeks the help of museum director Carter Hale to uncover the truth and treasure that could save her business. But can she trust him with her secrets and her heart?

MY REVIEW

This book definitely deserves 5 stars and more!! I thoroughly enjoyed it and it made my afternoon pass swiftly.

I loved the setting of this book. A Georgia coastal town with mystery, a budding romance, history and a museum involved! What more could a reader want? Oh and can't forget the possible pirates in there too.

Liz pulls her readers in with an exciting opening too! I won't forget that tidbit.

Ann and Caleb are easy to make friends with and you soon find yourself in love with them as they learn about themselves and their past. 

What I find is the theme of the story is Grace, Mercy and Forgiveness.

For we are saved by Grace from the Lord.

This truly is a book worth the read! Especially if you want to go on a grand adventure!!

My thanks to Revell for an outstanding read!!

NO compensations were received and all opinions are my own

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Biography

By day Liz Johnson works in marketing. She finds time to write late at night and is a Christy Award finalist and a two-time ACFW Carol Award finalist. Liz makes her home in Phoenix, Arizona where she enjoys theater, exploring local history, and doting on her nieces and nephews. She loves stories of true love with happy endings. Find out more about Liz at www.LizJohnsonBooks.com.

Deadly Intentions by Lisa Harris

ABOUT THE BOOK

Detective Josh Solomon always believed his wife's death was the result of a home invasion. But when he is pulled into a case with striking similarities, it doesn't take long for him to realize the chilling truththe attack that took his wife's life was far from random.

MY REVIEW

My 1st book ever by this author!! I think I will read some more books by this author in the near future. Her writing style is wonderful!! She has added a little bit of everything to make it a page turner from when you open the book until the end!! I've never liked suspense novels until I picked up one of Dana Mentiks, Lynette Eason and Jessica R Patch books. I'm totally hooked especially if romance is involved with God fearing people!! I'm glad to find I'm not the only one that shouts at the characters saying Look behind you! or get him/her get them!! Then u be like slapping your hand across your face when they don't right away but that is what makes a good story!! This is a great clean read if you live Christian Romance and Suspense all wrapped into one!! I strongly encourage my reader friends to read this awesome book!! My thanks to Netgelley for providing a copy of this early read. No compensations were received. All opinions are my own ABOUT THE AUTHOR BIO: Award-winning author of nineteen novels and novellas, Lisa Harris lives with her husband and their three children in Mozambique, Africa, where they work as missionaries. When she’s not busy writing or home schooling, she loves traveling, cooking different ethnic foods, and photographing animals and birds in the African bush. Visit her website at www.lisaharriswrites.com and her blog at www.myblogintheheartofafrica.blogspot...

Love at Pebble Creek by Lisa Jones Baker

ABOUT THE BOOK

Love at Pebble Creek

(Hope Chest of Dreams #5)

by 

Lisa Jones Baker (Goodreads Author)

 4.50  ·   Rating details ·  14 ratings  ·  13 reviews

In Lisa Jones Baker's heartwarming series, precious hand-carved chests hold treasured dreams--and bring blessings to a new generation ...

Anna King has a talent--and a secret. Like the birth mother she never knew, Anna is gifted at sketching and longs to study and teach art one day. Unbeknownst to her beloved adoptive family, she's even entered a contest to win a full scholarship to art college. Sketching isn't a desirable vocation in her community, so Anna does her work in a remote spot by Pebble Creek and stores it in her beautiful hope chest. Only her family's farmhand, Jesse Beiler, knows her plans--and that's by accident ...

The bishop's son, Jessie is surprised to discover Anna's contest entry form. He can't imagine wanting a life beyond having his own farm and raising a family. Still, he admires Anna's spirit and promises to keep her secret, despite their differences. Yet the better he and Anna get to know each other, the more they find their personalities--and their hearts--complement one another. With Gott's guidance, can they forge the futures they desire--together?

"The heart of this romance goes far beyond stereotypes ... providing an unusual and welcome level of insight into the characters' inner lives."

--Publishers Weekly on Rebecca's Bouquet, STARRED REVIEW

"A sweet tale. . . . Forgiveness is a key theme, as is the concept that life is a combination of good and bad situations that make us who we are."

MY REVIEW

I gave this book 5 stars just because it's Lisa Jones Baker. Everytime I read any of her books I'm left feeling full and blessed simply because of the sweet messages that are from the Lord in this book!! Fabulous!!

My heart hurt for Anna since I knew how she felt at times while she found herself.

Like her, I used to draw and quite well too!! Until I layed my pencil down and didn't pick it up again. I found that if you don't use the talents that God has sent you, like singing and drawing He can take them away from you like He did me. I believe that He shut those doors and gave me something more special and I'm now playing in an Orchestra.

Many times I wished I was like Jesse who knew what he wanted out of life and went for it with a full vote of confidence. I admired him for that. I wished that I had a good friend here on Earth to confide in and tell my deepest secrets to but I don't. I do in my heavenly Father and for that I will habe the greatest treasure in Heaven when I get there

I strongly recommend this sweet book to anyone who needs a friend and confident for He is there.

I received a complimentary copy with no compensations received. All opinions are my own.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lisa Jones Baker grew up near a small Amish town in Illinois that she frequented with her family on weekends. She's also a dog lover and a fan of Scottsdale, Arizona, where she spent nearly two decades. Lisa graduated from Illinois State University with a French major, has been on 5 out of 7 continents, and considers her parents the best in the world. Raised in a Christian home, Lisa has always been blessed with love and support.

Our trip to Natrual Bridge on Aug 17th, 2019

On Sat Aug 17, 2019 my family and I went to Natural bridge for an outing.
Oh my it was hotter than Hades!! Then to top it off the air conditioning went out our car which didn't help matters any.
What we really went down for was the Artisan Arts and Crafts show. I hadn't planned on going to the top of the bridge. But now, that I think about it I"m glad we did.
Since it was too hot to take the trail like we normally do, we opted out to ride the skylift. What a treat!! We got to go straight up the mountain and from our point of view, it looked like we were going to crash into the mountain side!!

      Here's a picture of me and Michael in the chair lift going up the side of the mountain side. Michael was squinting his eyes because the sun was too bright lol so was I!! 

Here's another one of us after we got to the top of the bridge.

Sorry the picture is so dark!! Like I said earlier, the sun was really bright that day.

Isn't the scenery gorgeous? Kentucky is a very beautiful state. The only thing I really don't like about it is the very high pollen count. Especially around this time of month through the first frost. Here's some scenery photos!! Enjoy!!!

My son then went under the bridge for me a took these lovely photos!! Since I"m now on a cane and can't really get down to the bottom and it was really hot I sat in the shade and let him do it lol!! And guess what? I made the mistake of eating before we went on this short jaunt. I think I did get a little bit of heat sickness but not Michael!! He downed a chocolate shake from Arby's and it didn't bother him one bit!! Lucky butt!! 

Another view of the bridge. Michael took a few in case they didn't turn out very well. 

Here's one I wasn't expecting him to take and this one is called Lover's Leap.

When my son told me how this was named and that it came from an Indian Story. It's too long to tell here but I will get him to explain it to me someday. 

I'm not sure if this was taken going up or getting ready to come back down. Coming back down is to me the really scary part!! It's like you're suspended out in mid air before the drop down. Not a very pleasant feeling for someone who is scared to death of heights!! But you know what?? I ended up enjoying the ride after all!! It was peaceful and I could feel the presence of God around me saying it's all right my child. 

All in all, it was a lovely way to spend the Sabbath. 

And last but least here I am with my cane. Man did that ever come in handy!! Some day I will tell how I came by it. 

If you ever want to come and feel God's presence, there's nothing like being out in nature at it's finest.  I highly recommend this outing!! 

Oh, and we ran into a group of Mennonites enjoying the same thing. I think they were part of a youth group. This is the first time that we've been there that a group like this has come here that I know of. 

They had an English driver with them which confused us because I thought they were allowed to drive. 

My top 10 favorite summer reads of 2019 so far

Here's some of my favorite reads so far this summer and I'm going to say bear with me because this is my first time doing this and I wanted it to make this blog a little more personal.

1.  YOURS TRULY, THOMAS

To start off with here's my very favorite so far. This book has everything in it a reader could want. Just make sure that you have a box of tissues sitting beside you. 

I enjoyed this so much that I really wanted to savor this book so I took my time with it because I didn't want to say goo bye to the characters.

Oh, and did I say that Margaret the boardinghouse lady is my favorite character! I felt that I could go to her and tell anything and it wouldn't go past the boardinghouse. I think she'd make a wonderful friend in real life!

Rachel, you've done a fabulous job on this story! I can't wait to see what you come out with next!

2. A FAMILY FOR GRACIE BY AMY LILLARD

Next up, A Family for Gracie because I love love Amish fiction!! Amy Lillard is an awesome writier that can make her characters feelings' come straight from the page and sometimes even want to make you yell at them or pray for them or whatever the case may be. I can feel Mathew digging his heels in since my own husband does sometimes when he doesn't really want to do something. I can also believe Gracie. I too wanted a family of my own. I strongly recommend this book for Amish fiction fans or just anyone in general. 

Isn't the cover of this book just beautiful?

Amy, looking forward to your next book!

3. MARRIED TO A STRANGER BY LAURA V. HILTON

 

I especially liked this book because of Bishop Mia. I loved his nosy ways and I even laughed out loud where he'concerned.  I loved his protective ways for his community!! They will surely miss him if something happens to him! 

I loved the life lessons that are learned in this story as well.  

Laura is a master storyteller and I first fell in love with this author when she wrote Postcards. 

 I strongly recommend this book!! You won't want to put it down!! 

Laura, can't wait to see what you write next!!

4. MONARCH MANOR BY MAUREEN LEURCK

I strongly recommend this book if you love time slip novels and this one is great!! It's also perfect for a beach read if you've a mind to.  I really felt sorry for Erin who is going through some things that have to do with just life in general.  

We meet with Amelia first. I thought she was a very brave woman in those days.  Especially with a mean mother in law!!  

I can't wait for ya'll to read this book!! 

I'm looking forward to more from this author!

5. FIRE STORM BY NANCY MEHL

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I liked this one because I love a who done it mystery or crime if you want to call it that. This one is also a great guessing who done it book!! And believe me, it's not the person who you think it is!!

 Nancy is a great story teller and I highly recommend this book.

 I'm what you call a set in your ways reader but something nudged me about this book. I"m glad I trusted my inner self!

 I am starting to expand my reading though and thought I"d try this one. I wasn't disappointed! I "first met" Nancy through her Mennonite books. 

Let me tell you folks this one will make the hairs stand up on the back of your neck too if you like those kinds of stories!! 

Nancy, I"m looking forward to your next book!

6. THE PINK BONNET BY LIZ TSOLMA

I particularly liked this book because I learned some things that I never knew people actually did that. Makes me wonder how my parents adopted me!! 

Liz has written a captivated story in how children "get readopted' from the original families they had. 

Georgia Tann is a very interesting person. How she managed to get away with what she was doing is beyond me but she will have to answer to a higher power come judgement day

I strongly recommend this book. Ya'll wont be able to put it down!!

Liz, I can't wait to see what you will write next!

7. A RELUCTANT BRIDE BY JODY HEDLUND

I'm a huge fan of Jody Hedlund!! I was so grateful to be on her launch team this year to help promote her book. I"m hoping that this will promote it even further lol! But, anyway I've always loved this author and I look forward to reading her books.  She is also a great storyteller!! I love how the words flow from her heart and her pen! 

I strongly recommend this book!!  It's a wonderful summer read!! 

Jody, I'm looking forward to reading the next installment of this series! 

8. NO OCEAN TOO WIDE BY CARRIE TURANSKY

I put this book on the list because I love Carrie Turansky and this her best yet!! It's also my very 2nd favorite!!  I love this book because it tells of a families love and just like the title says No Ocean is too Wide for love.  Family ties are often times very strong especially in hard times like in Laura's family. Now, I definitely recommend that you have a box of tissues beside you! You'll need them!! I grantee you won't want to say goodbye to these characters!! 

Carrie, I hope there will be a sequal to this wonderful book! I can't wait to see what you will do next!

9.  MORE THAN WORDS CAN SAY BY KAREN WHITEMEYER

Fans of Karen Whitemeyer will definitely want to add this one to their collection.

I loved this one so very much!! I enjoyed the humor in it and she certainly knows how to write that in!! This story truly comes from the heart!

This book will definitely make you laugh out loud and if there are any family members around they will probably ask you what you're laughing at. 

I think this book could be made into an awesome movie it's that good!! 

Karen, I can't wait to see what you write about next!! 

10. THE MEDALLION BY CATHY GOHLKE

This book is about the German blitzkrieg of Warsaw in 1939. What a sad sad story but what this author offers in this story is hope and a light at the end of the war. I loved each and every character especially Charlotte. I won't say a whole lot more but here's another book that will make you want to have a box of tissues. 

Cathy Gohlke is a wonderful writer and it shows through her stories that she writes.

I first fell in love with Cathy when I read William Henry is a fine name and then later I have seen Him in the Watchfires. Both great stories! I wanted more.

I devoured this in two sittings by the way it was that good!! 

I also love each and every book cover that comes with her stories!! I can't wait to see what you write next Cathy!!