Sunday, July 14, 2019

An Amish Summer

33027971



ABOUT THE BOOK

A Reunion in Pinecraft by Shelley Shepard Gray


When sisters Sharon and Sherilyn Kramer attend a wedding in Shipshewana, one of them returns with a new penpal while the other returns to her job at the bakery. After sending weekly letters back and forth, Sherry and Graham Holland arrange a reunion in Pinecraft. Upon Graham s arrival, however, he realizes he s been writing to the wrong sister. He decides to use the reunion as a way to get to know both sisters, but can he sort through the confusion in time to turn the worst vacation ever into something truly wonderful?



Summer Storm by Amy Clipston



Arianna is counting down the days until her wedding to Jesse. They have been friends longer than Arianna can remember, and that friendship turned into love over the past couple of years. But when Arianna s brother Isaac, who happens to be Jesse s best friend, gets them both into trouble, Arianna s father puts an end to her engagement to Jesse. Some summer storms pass quickly, but Arianna is afraid the damage from this one may be too much to repair.



Lakeside Love by Kathleen Fuller



Esther has always lived in the shadow of her beautiful younger sister Sarah. Even the boy she has known and loved her entire life, Judah, only has eyes for Sarah. But when a handsome young Englischer comes to live with the family for a summer, everything begins to change.



One Sweet Kiss by Kelly Irvin



Everybody in little Bee County, Texas, can see the obvious: Jacob King and Martha Byler are meant to be together. Everyone, that is, but Martha. Ever since her mother died when Martha was a young girl, she has taken over the role of caregiver to her large family. And reckless Jacob, who has had a little too much fun on his rumspringa, only seems to add to the list of people to manage. But one summer changes everything, and these two may just find a way to meet in the middle and share one sweet kiss.



MY REVIEW


Isn't this cover beautiful!! I love the colors that are on it as well!!
This book has 4 different stories all written by my favorite authors!!
Normally I don't like that because they're too short!! I feel like I get into them and they're over just like that.
While it's nice to catch up on all the families and see what they are doing their story is over all too soon and sometimes I'm left wondering if we'll be reading about them again.
You also may come across with some tough issues that we don't normally read about in Amish books which makes these a lot more interesting!!
While reading this book it might be a little confusing at first but then as you get into it it is nicely done.
I like the summer settings for these novellas. I think summer is one of my favorite seasons along with Spring of course!!
The Amish are an interesting people. I like how they want to live in the world but not of it. In many ways, they are just like us except they handle their issues of life differently. I can identify with some of the characters in a couple of the stories the others I cannot.
No compensations were received and all opinions are my own!
I strongly recommend this book for people who love reading novellas. I received a copy from Netgalley - Thomas Nelson publisher
I'm sorry that this review is late but life just sometimes gets in the way.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
SHELLY SHEPARD GRAY
Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.

Shelley Shepard GrayHer novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists. 


Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations. 
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.co

By Hook or Rook by Rebecca Connelly






By Hook or by Rook
About the Book


Series: The London League
Genre:  Adult, Historical, Regency, Romance
Publisher: Phase Publishing
Publication date: July 1, 2019
​The most dangerous journeys…
Jeremy Pratt is a spy for the Crown, and one of the best. He has been in more dangerous situations than he can admit, and has always come out unscathed. But escorting his colleague’s cousin home to her family, even in disguise, just might be beyond his skills, and the temptation beyond his ability to withstand.
…May be ones of the heart…
Helen Dalton is convinced there is more to this man escorting her than meets the eye, and something familiar about him, as well. There is only one man in the world who looks at her so intensely, banters with her so easily, and makes her blush so furiously. And when he manages a daring and heroic rescue, she wonders if she ever knew him at all.















Monday, July 8, 2019

UNTIL THE MOUNTAINS FALL BY CONNILYN COSSETTE




42189860



ABOUT THE BOOK

Recently widowed, Rivkah refuses to submit to the Torah law compelling her to marry her husband's brother and instead flees Kedesh, hoping to use her talents as a scribe to support herself. Without the protections of her father, Kedesh's head priest, and the safety of the city of refuge, Rivkah soon discovers that the cost of recklessness is her own freedom.

Malakhi has secretly loved Rivkah for years, but he never imagined his older brother's death would mean wedding her himself. After her disappearance, he throws himself into the ongoing fight against the Canaanites instead of dwelling on all he has lost. But with impending war looming over Israel, Rivkah's father comes to Malakhi with an impossible request.

As the enemies that Rivkah and Malakhi face from without and within Israel grow more threatening each day, is it too late for the restoration their wounded souls seek?



MY REVIEW

Just finished this delightful read and I'm wondering if anyone noticed the theme here? It's in one of Jesus' parables and one of my favorites of all of His stories!!
I was really happy to return to Kedesh with all of my friends again!! It seems forever in between books!!
Forgiveness is also the theme here. 
Forgiveness is a very important part of our lives even in Biblical times.
I love Connilyns' stories!! I love how she makes the characters come to life from the Bible. It's amazing that you can feel their feelings coming through the pages of time from her pen
I love how Conni continues the story from the Book of Joshua. 
I liked how the book was action packed from the very beginning and you definitely wanted to see what happened to Rivkah and Malicah.
My mom always told me that some boys have trouble with their feelings about telling a girl he liked so he picked on her. Of course I thought Mom was full of it. But later on in life I found that she was right.
Usually moms are. Dads too.
These authors that write stories like this are truly gifted. 
Well done Connylin!! Will Amit have his story to tell? I'm hoping so!!
Oh and twins rum on my husband's side of the family too!! More on the Fox side though. Thank goodness!!
Well, anyway I enjoyed this story very much and I eagerly await the next story from Conni!!


ABOUT THE AUTHOR



Connilyn Cossette
Connilyn Cossette is the CBA-Bestselling, Christy Nominated author of the Out from Egypt Series and the Cities of Refuge Series from Bethany House Publishers. When she’s not engulfed in the happy chaos of homeschooling two teenagers, devouring books whole, or avoiding housework, she can be found digging into the rich ancient world of the Bible. She delights in discovering new gems of grace that point to Jesus and weaving them into an immersive fiction experience. Although she and her husband have lived all over the country in the last twenty-plus years, they currently call North Carolina home. (less)

OTHER BOOKS IN THE SERIES

Cities of Refuge (4 books)
  • A Light on the Hill (Cities of Refuge, #1)
  • Shelter of the Most High (Cities of Refuge, #2)
  • Like Flames in the Night (Cities of Refuge, #4)


On Tour with Prism Book Tours



Sweet Home Alaska

(Northern Lights #5)

By Beth Carpenter
Contemporary Romance
Mass Market Paperback & ebook, 368 Pages
July 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Some sparks last forever.

But once burned…

World traveler Dr. Scott Willingham is known for being calm and levelheaded—except where Volta Morgan is concerned. In the ten years since they parted, Scott still can’t forget her. Now he’s come to Alaska to find Volta and finally let her go, only to find their attraction is stronger than ever. Can Scott leave her behind one last time…or has he truly found a place to call home?





Other Books in the Series





MY REVIEW

I loved this book. A sweet, clean read at it's best!!
A second chance at love and best of horses!! How cool is that!! Horses are my favorite and I love to go trail riding whenever possible!! 
Scott and Volta wow who could've imagined! What this couple had and God has given them is a gift not to be taken lightly! 
I love Scott. His bedside manners almost reminds me of my Dr once upon a time!! Impeccable manners and a wonderful personality. Sometimes it all has to do with growing into oneself and learning some responsibility. 
Volta is cool as well. I was really cheering her on! I almost wished she was my mom but I had a great mom myself who gave me anything I needed until I got old enough to get a job.
I really admired her quiet strength and support of her daughter. And her ability to forgive and to sort through whatever was going on.
Her family is amazing too!!
I felt like choking Aunt Stacy. Jealous butt. Jealousy will get no one anywhere but will get you into trouble if you aren't careful!
But, anyway I truly enjoyed this author's story and her writing is wonderful!! I love trying out new authors and this wasn't disappointing. 
I will be looking for more from this author and I will re-read this book in the future. I will want to check on Scott and Volta to see if they're doing ok!!
I strongly recommend this book for people who want a sweet and clean read from Harliquin
My thanks to Prism book tours for this wonderful read.
No compensations were received and all opinions are my own 



About the Author



Once upon a time ...

when Beth Carpenter was a little girl, she read everything she could get her hands on, and entertained herself on the school bus by making up stories in her head. Not a lot has changed. She's still consuming books like M&Ms, and spends her days creating happily-ever-afters for her imaginary friends.

She lives in Alaska and Arizona with her husband and an aggressively affectionate fifty-pound lap dog. She loves to hear from readers.

Tour Schedule









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1 winner will receive:
- A copy of AN ALASKAN PROPOSAL
- A neoprene pansy-print lunch tote
- A $20 Amazon gift card

Please note: International entries welcome, but if the winner has no US mailing address, the substitute prize will be AN ALASKAN PROPOSAL and ALASKAN HIDEAWAY ebooks, plus a $20 Amazon gift card.

Ends July 17, 2019






Grab Our Button!

The Yellow Lantern by Angie Dicken

42794577



ABOUT THE BOOK

In Massachusetts in 1824, Josephine Clayton awakes on the table of the doctor she's assisted all these months. She was presumed dead by all and has become the doctor's next corpse for his medical research. Frightened, the doctor tries to kill her, but Josephine begs to be spared. A deal is struck--Josie will leave her village and work at a distant cotton mill. All the while, she'll await her true mission--posing as a mourner to help his body snatcher procure her replacement. At the mill though, Josie is praised for her medical remedies among the mill girls, gaining attention from the handsome factory manager Braham Terrance. Yet, when Braham's own loved one becomes the prey for the next grave robbing, Josie must make a choice that could put her dark past behind her or steal away the promise of any future at all.


What price will Josie pay for love when her secrets begin to unravel?



More from the True Colors Series

The White City by Grace Hitchcock (March 2019)

The Pink Bonnet by Liz Tolsma (June 2019)



MY REVIEW

Truly right out of the twighlight zone if you're old enough to remember that tv show. Not to offend anyone.

I love the storyline a lot!! The cover especially intrigued me.

I also think of the movie or show Invasion of the Body Snatchers too!!

Brahm is what you call a good person in the midst of the storyline. He's a true hero. I felt sorry for him and I knew just how he felt being adopted and all and not really even fitting in. I felt like it was my life that I was reading about. The kind, fun and loving Aunt that truly treated me as a member of the family.
I'd also love to have him as my boss at McDonald's! It would be a different place to work lol!!
Josie, I had some mixed vibes about her at first. Then she turned out to be an ok person. It wasn't her fault that she got caught in what was going on. In a way, I'm glad I wasn't living back then. I felt sorry for the women being used as pawns for their fathers' sometimes ill use.
I think little Liesel is my favorite along with the boarding house cook where the factory girls stay as long as they're employed there.
I love how the author shows us that good can come from evil every time. And that hope can come from it.
It's also a book that is part of an exciting series called True colors
My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this awesome read!!
No compensations were received and all opinions are my own! 



Blog post

It’s release month and I am excited to share about grave-robbing…uh, well, excited is a strange word to use! HAHA!
When I started this project, grave-robbing was a very unknown topic to me—one that I considered with great caution as I am a pretty sensitive person when it comes to anything really graphic. I took care to consider how I might write this story for someone like me, but without glossing over the subject. My main goal was to root a redemption story into the true crime of graverobbing.

During my research, I came across some interesting facts about this true crime in Massachusetts. as well as in history at large. Graverobbing was not just a practice of the 19th century, but a practice that has been employed throughout history.

I’d like to share some made-up headlines that popped into my head as I researched, along with links to websites that elaborated on the subject during my studies.

“Dig in” to this topic of my newest release, and then let me know what you found most surprising about this true crime.

Remember, sign up for my quarterly newsletter to learn more about book news and giveaways!

                                 
HEADLINES (by Angie Dicken):

Spunker Club: Medical Society Desperate For Bodies!

            What elite medical school could have possibly been thick in the practice of graverobbing long ago?



Families of the Dead Demand Protection!
The Act of the Sepluchres of the Dead, 1815

Finally, the governor listens to angry family members who discover their deceased have been stolen away.



And, here are some possible headlines Josie Clay might have read after her own encounters with grave-robbers:

What in The World is Burking?

Burking was the term for killing someone to use their body for medical research. This was after William Burke was tried and convicted in 1829 for suffocating an individual for the purposes of medical research.




Finally, We Can Dissect in Peace.
1831 Massachusetts Anatomy Act

In 1831, anatomical dissection was legalized in Massachusetts after being lobbied for by Dr. John Collins Warren who donated his own body for dissection in efforts to expand medical knowledge.






Forced to Spy for Grave Robbers
True Colors - Fiction Based on Strange-But-True History
 
In 1824, Josephine Clayton is considered dead by everyone in her Massachusetts village—especially the doctor she has assisted for several months. Yet, she is still very much alive.
 
After the doctor's illegal dealing with his body snatcher to obtain her body, Josephine awakens, positioned as the next corpse for his research. To cover up his crime, the doctor tries to kill her, but Josephine begs to be spared. They strike a deal--Josephine will leave her village and work at a distant cotton mill. All the while, she'll await her true mission--posing as a mourner to help the body snatcher procure her replacement.
 
At the mill though, Josephine is praised for her medical remedies among the other female workers, gaining attention from the handsome factory manager, Braham Taylor. Yet, when Braham's own loved one becomes the prey for the next grave robbing, Josie must make a choice that could put her dark past behind her or steal away the promise of any future at all.
 
What price will Josie pay for love when her secrets begin to unravel?





GIVEAWAY




ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Angie Dicken
Angie Dicken credits her love of story to reading British literature during life as a military kid in Cambridgeshire, England. Now living in the U.S., she's an ACFW member, a blog contributor to the Writer's Alley, a baseball mom, and a self-proclaimed foodie. You can connect with her 

on social media and learn about upcoming releases at www.angiedicken.com.


Monday, July 1, 2019

42831556



ABOUT THE BOOK

For the Amish of Pontotoc, Mississippi, faith and family are everything--even when they pose the greatest challenge . . . 

Gracie Glick is known for being the helpful one, always available for a relative in need. But now that she's longing for a home and family of her own, it's time to help herself. With few eligible men in Pontotoc, Gracie's choices, and her time, are limited. So she takes a bold leap of faith: she proposes to Matthew Byler, a handsome, recently widowed, father of five. It's not until after they're married that Gracie learns Matthew doesn't want more children . . .

With his grief still fresh, and his children needing care while he tends to his farm, Gracie is the answer to Matthew's prayers. But a marriage in name only suits him fine. And when he finally tells Gracie the dismaying reason why, they must decide whether to continue 
together--or apart. It's a choice that will force them both to look deeper into their hearts than ever before . . .

Praise for Amy Lillard and her Wells Landing novels

"An inspirational story of romance, faith, and trust . . . will appeal to fans of Wanda Brunstetter and Beverly Lewis." 
--Library Journal on Caroline's Secret

"Fans of inspirational romance will appreciate Lillard's vivid characters and positive message."
--Publishers Weekly 



MY REVIEW

Thank you Amy Lillard for another fantastic story!!
I'm so happy that Gracie finally got her own story!! 
What can I truly say about this book?
Yes this story has it all!! Trust, forgiveness and Faith. 
It really takes cooperation from both people to make a marriage work. A lot if work!! But I feel that with God's help and trust it can work. Look at me and my husband. We've been married for 22 years and still going strong!!
We're sort of like Matthew and Gracie jumping in from the get go not knowing each other yet. We only dated each other for a month. I was a lot like Gracie. I wanted a family and a home of my own. I mean who wouldn't! 
I think I felt sorry for the baby and all but I also think that I would have ended up pleading sanity for a baby who constantly cried. Nothing can replace someone you're used to and loved and then suddenly you're misplaced or something is out of character. It can mess anyone up.
Better stop here before I completely give everything away but fans of Amy Lillard will love this story regardless!! I know I did!!
This a story worth rereading over and over again because there are some wonderful messages in here. 
Will someone else get their own story? I sure hope so at least the author gives an indication there will be. Please Amy????
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and no compensations were received. All opinions are my own!! 



ABOUT THE AUTHOR


I'm a wife, mother, and bona fide Southern belle. Published author, expert corn bread maker, and Squirrel Princess.

Amy LillardI 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'


Secrets Never Die by Laurie Lewis

46252346. sy475



ABOUT THE BOOK

Tallie Brown's life has never made any sense. Raised in isolation by her mother, Julia, Tallie was dragged suddenly and without explanation from one third-world outpost to another until life normalized seven years ago when Julia took a position on a mountaintop in the Pacific northwest. But when Julia unexpectedly dies, Tallie uncovers clues suggesting that Julia had a secret life.

Journalistic phenom Jackson James is still recovering from the devastating mistake that flatlined his promising career. Now he's paying the price, working as the editor of a syrupy community rag in a posh D.C. suburb. But when the very man who destroyed him drops a tantalizing lead about a potential D.C. scandal, the reporter sees his chance for redemption and sets off to chase the story.

Jackson's investigation leads him to Cutler's Ridge, a dying Virginia coal town, and directly into the path of the mysterious and beautiful Tallie. As these two mistrustful loners follow their leads, their stories begin to intertwine until they reach an alarming conclusion - something terrible happened in Cutler's Ridge. As they doggedly pursue the story, the town's cold reception spirals into threats and danger, proving that there are those who will stop at nothing to keep the past hidden forever - because secrets never die.



MY REVIEW

A new to me author. 
This new story kept me guessing until the very end!! Just like the author intended!! Good job Laurie Lewis!! I am going to read more from this author in the future! 
I love an action packed book that will leave you reading long after 12 a.m.
Poor Tallie!! But in a way lucky Tallie too!! I say that because I can put myself in her place. Sometimes I imagine that if I could find my real family how different my life would be!! Oh my!! How many families that are related to me would come out of the woodworks! 
I think that is why Tallie is my favorite because I can relate to her and how I would feel if I did find my real family. Just hopefully not the way she did.
I liked Jackson too. At first I thought that was his real name but it is his last name. I sure hope his family forgave him for what he did. Who knows? Only God and the author truly knows.
I will say this, my heart ached for Sophie and Petty. They were good people.
I sure didn't like Nan or her attitude. I wanted to give her a sock in the nose or an attitude adjustment you might say.
I love the title of this book. Secrets never die because certain people will not let secrets die. Even in real life. Eventually, they will come out in the open. Sometimes now, sometimes later and sometimes with a price. It's a shame really. What makes people snap and what lengths they will go to. Someday they will have to answer to a higher power. All of us will.
Laurie knows how to round out her supporting characters too! I liked some very well and others' not so well. 
However; in my opinion, it was a little slow to get into but once you keep reading it takes off and you won't be able to put it down.
I would love to give this book more than 5 stars if I could.
I strongly recommend this book to people that love the who done it mysteries. 
I received this book with no compensation received and all opinions are my own!!



ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Laurie L.C. LewisLaurie (L.C.) Lewis will always be a Marylander at heart—a weather-whining lover of crabs, American history, and the sea. She admits to being craft-challenged, particularly lethal with a glue gun, and a devotee of sappy movies. Her ninth published novel, her first romance novella, "Sweet Water, " was inspired by a visit to Oregon’s magnificent coast, and time spent with Mother Eugenie, upon whom the character Mother Thomasine is based. 

Laurie’s women’s fiction novels include The "Dragons of Alsace Farm" (2016), "Awakening Avery" (2010), and "Unspoken" (2004), written as Laurie Lewis. 

Using the pen name L.C. Lewis, she wrote the five volumes of her award-winning FREE MEN and DREAMERS historical fiction series, set against the backdrop of the War of 1812: "Dark Sky at Dawn" (2007), "Twilight’s Last Gleaming "(2008), "Dawn’s Early Light" (2009), "Oh, Say Can You See?" (2010), and "In God is Our Trust" (2011).

She is currently completing a political suspense novel planned for a summer 2017 release, and is working on another historical fiction novel for 2018 release. She loves to hear from readers, and she can be contacted at any of these locations:




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...