Book Review: Sanctuary by Pauline Creeden

This is an engaging, imaginative and thought provoking world end view.
Sanctuary 
by Pauline Creeden

• File Size: 2899 KB
• Print Length: 268 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1491072067
• Publisher: AltWit Press; 2 edition (September 13, 2013)
• ASIN: B00FI2W6CK

Genre: Christian Fiction, Apocalyptic
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: September 27, 2013
In a heart-racing thriller described as Falling Skies meets The Walking Dead,
Jennie struggles to find a safe place for what’s left of her family. But it seems as though there is no place sacred, no place secure. First the aliens attacked the sun, making it dimmer, weaker, and half what it used to be. Then they attacked the water supply, killing one-third of Earth’s population with a bitter contaminate. And when they unleash a new terror on humankind, the victims will wish for death, but will not find it…

When the world shatters to pieces around her, will Jennie find the strength she needs to keep going?

Amazon * Barnes & Noble

Review:
Jennie is a nineteen year old who was enjoying her first year at college and away from home. Now her parents want her to stay home since no one knows what is happening with the aliens who have attacked. They have already killed one-third of the Earth’s population by poisoning the water supply. Now the spaceships hover as the people wait for another attack.

The second attack comes in the form of dog sized, lion-like beasts who bite and infect anyone they come across - man, woman or child. Jennie’s mother is one of the early people bitten. Jennie takes her young brother to the hospital to be with their parents only to discover that, within an hour or so, the infected humans turn into zombies and attack more humans. Now the population is running from the aliens and infected friends and family.

Hugh is a 27 year-old high school science teacher who was called Mr. Hottie by Jennie’s school friends. He is getting over the loss of his rich girlfriend who was stolen by his younger, woman chasing and leach of a brother, Brad. Hugh spends the first few days of the zombie attacks barricaded in his apartment building trying to learn from news reports what is going on.

Brad is a self absorbed young man looking for the easy life by dating rich women. If he can spite his brother in the process so much the better. Brad and Hugh’s ex are in a coffee shop when the beasts run through town attacking a man right outside the door. Brad thinks he is being a hero when he drags the man inside the shop.

Jennie and her brother have to make it across town to seek refuge and help at their church. There they find Hugh and Brad waiting for the Pastor and his wife to take a busload of survivors to the military base. Hugh has a theory of a cure that he shares with the military scientists.

The Shisas, as the lion beasts are being called, manage to get on base to attack the group. Can Jennie and others have enough real faith to take the steps needed to survive?

I would see this closer to Left Behind than The Hunger Games and that is okay with its faith based focus.  It is an engaging story and I enjoyed how the author tells the tale through the three characters. It moves along well with a good combination of action and emotional input. I also liked the spiritual message told through this unusual, imaginative view. The ending sets up a sequel and I am interested to read on.

I received this for review as part of BookBlast Tour. Check the feature, excerpt and Giveaway on the previous post.

Book Review and Giveaway: Flight of the Raven (Mysteries of Sparrow Island Series #2) by Ellen Harris

Our Ladies’ book club all enjoyed this light mystery.
Flight of the Raven (Mysteries of Sparrow Island Series #2)
by Ellen Harris

• Paperback: 300 pages
• Publisher: Ideals Publications; Retail edition (February 15, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0824947126
• ISBN-13: 978-0824947125

Genre: Cozy Mystery, Inspirational
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: February 15, 2007
A small plane disappears from the sky above Sparrow Iland, and Abby knows she must do something to help. Together, she and Sergeant Henry Cobb, set off to hunt for survivors. They find the plane but not the passengers - who it seems don't want to be found. Abby's wilderness skills are put to the test as she and Henry go on a chase to try to uncover the secrets of the passengers' hidden pasts. An exciting, suspense-filled story, "Flight of the Raven" is a riveting tale of determination, ingenuity and courage.

Review:
Abby is a very intelligent, versatile lady, who study to be an ornithologist. After working in a big city she has returned to the island to help her sister, Mary, whose legs were badly injured in an accident. Now Abby is working at the Sparrow Island Nature Observatory and getting to use some of her skills. Abby and her young assistant, Bobby, are excited to be releasing three orphaned falcons they rescued. As they watch the young falcons flying they notice a wobbly float plane which disappears beyond another island.

Abby, Mary and Mary’s male friend, Henry, a local police Sargent are about to sit down to dinner with her parents when Henry gets a call to look for the plane that witnesses have reported as having crashed. Abby volunteers to go with Henry as she thinks she can help pin point where the plane went down and she has experience in search and rescue.

Abby and Henry face difficulties locating the plane and the night drags on. They finally find the plane abandoned but blood stains indicate that someone is injured. But when they follow the trail they determine that things may not be as they appear and perhaps the passengers are trying to avoid rescue. The suspense increases after Henry is injured and the strangers vandalize the boat, destroying the radio. Abby has to use survival skills to care for Henry while they await rescue themselves and try to avoid the miscreants.

Meanwhile Mary is at home trying to cope with her worry. Fortunately she is distracted by her son, Zack, who arrives with a service dog and its trainer, a lovely young woman. Mary is not in favor of the idea of a help dog but everyone else in town is enthraled. Finally Mary comes to realize that it is okay to accept help and she sees how much more she can do with the help of Finnegan.

This is a very easy and enjoyable read. Ms. Harris weaves lots of little details into the story, sharing about birds, rescues and service dogs. The underlying faith is quietly presented and I liked how Ms. Harris conveyed the messages of letting go of worry and pride. The characters are likeable and a couple of the Ladies’ Book Club chose Finnegan (the dog) as their favorite character.

Although this is part of a series we had not read book 1 and this worked okay as a stand alone. I recommend this to readers who like birds and dogs and those who enjoy a light, easy mystery.

A quote we all liked:
Finnegan's trainer was explaining that playtime was a reward for him.

"He's not so different from us humans in that respect. He needs time each day when he can do things for the pure joy of it," she said. "Sometimes we underestimate how much we need joy in our lives." Page 166.

I was able to pick these up on sale at Christianbooks.com for Ladies' Book Club meeting July. (Sorry they may not be available there anymore.)

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for my gently read Copy:

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I have noticed a few commenters who forgot to enter through the Form. 

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* This contest is open to those with US address only.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on August 2, 2013.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on August 3, 2013.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review: Scorned Justice: The Men of the Texas Rangers by Margaret Daley

This is a wonderful, Christian, romantic suspense with strong characters and great tension.
Scorned Justice: The Men of the Texas Rangers
by Margaret Daley

• Paperback: 368 pages
• Publisher: Abingdon Press (April 1, 2013)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 142671436X
• ISBN-13: 978-1426714368

Genre: Christian Fiction, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: April 1, 2013 | Series: Men of the Texas Rangers (Book 3)
Texas Ranger Brody Calhoun is with his parents in west Texas when an unexpected attack injures the brother of Rebecca Morgan, Brody's high school sweetheart. The local sheriff, a good friend, asks for Brody’s help. At first, it seems like an open-and-shut case.

As Brody digs deeper, he realizes the attack may be related to an organized crime trial Rebecca will be overseeing. With Rebecca's help, he compiles evidence involving cattle rustling, bribery, and dirty payoffs that shatter the entire community and put Rebecca directly in the line of fire.

Brody expects to protect her. What he never expects is to fall for Rebecca all over again, or for a murder to throw the case wide open. Is Brody's faith strong enough to withstand not only deep-rooted corruption and cattle rustling, but also love?

Review:
Rebecca Morgan is a Judge overseeing a high profile trial of an organized crime leader.  Soon after the trial begins, Rebecca’s brother is injured while riding out on their joint ranch.  Although it appears to be an accident more security is  assigned to protect Rebecca, her sister-in-law and nieces against any threat of retaliation.

Brody, a steady, strong Texas Ranger is directed to protect Rebecca. They were best friends in school and he finds himself glad to be around the woman he lost after high school when they went separate ways and she married someone else. He has remained single all these years and even though she claims she will never marry another cop he knows there is a strong connection and attraction between them.

Continuing attacks, near misses and dead bodies in Rebecca's house have the authorities scrambling to determine which of the rival crime gangs has targeted Rebecca. The author includes thoughts from the villain’s view so the reader knows there is more going on before the characters do. This helped keep the tension and suspense running high and the heart pounding.

I was quickly pulled into the lives of the likeable hero and heroine. Within the first chapters I wanted a second chance for Brody and Rebecca. I was rooting for Brody and just waiting for Rebecca to realize that she couldn’t control all circumstances of her life but she shouldn’t miss out living to the fullest due to fear.

I really like Ms. Daley’s honorable characters and the underlying faith that gives them inner strength. The faith messages are natural to the characters and their circumstances and not preachy. There are good secondary characters including Brody’s feisty father who is recovering from a heart attack but still wants to share his skills as a detective.

The writing is full, easy and moves at a good pace. The descriptions are vibrant and the suspense is non-stop. The romance is a sweet backdrop to the danger. There are Discussion Questions at the end which are good for groups or for your own brain pondering. If you like good romantic suspense I highly recommend Scorned Justice. Although it is apparently a third book in a series it works fine as a stand alone. I will be looking for more of Ms. Daley’s books to read.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Rebecca struggles with control issues and Brody challenges her on it:

   "I'm used to being in control. As a judge. As a prosecutor. But with this situation I have no control....
    When she looked at him again, he glimpsed fear in her expression. "How much time do you spend worrying about that control--planning your life down to the smallest detail?"  Page 156.

I received this book for an honest review as part of Pump Up Your Book Tour. 

This story is set in and near San Antonio, Texas for my 2013 Where Are You Reading Challenge. This is also a New Author for me.

To find out more about Margaret visit her website or say hello at:

TWITTER | FACEBOOK

Visit the other blog tour sites for more review input. 

Audible Book Review: White Picket Fences by Susan Meissner, with Print Giveaway

This is a family drama with intrigue and historical touches from the Holocaust as added interest.
White Picket Fences 
    UNABRIDGED
    by Susan Meissner
    Narrated by Bernadette Dunne

LENGTH 9 hrs and 19 mins
RELEASE DATE 10-06-09
Program Type Audiobook
PUBLISHER Random House Audio
Genre: Christian Fiction
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
When her black sheep brother disappears, Amanda Janvier eagerly takes in her 16-year-old niece, Tally. The girl is practically an orphan: motherless, and living with a father who raises Tally wherever he lands - in a Buick, a pizza joint, a horse farm - and regularly takes off on wild schemes. Amanda envisions that she, her husband Neil, and their two teenagers can offer the girl stability and a shot at a "normal" life, even though their own storybook lives are about to crumble.

Seventeen-year-old Chase Janvier hasn't seen his cousin in years, and other than a vague curiosity about her strange life, he doesn't expect her arrival will affect him much - or interfere with his growing, disturbing interest in a long-ago house fire that plagues his dreams unbeknownst to anyone else.

Tally and Chase bond as they interview two Holocaust survivors for a sociology project and become startlingly aware that the whole family is grappling with hidden secrets, with the echoes of the past, and with the realization that ignoring tragic situations won't make them go away.

Will Tally's presence blow apart their carefully-constructed world, knocking down the illusion of the white picket fence and reveal a hidden past that could destroy them all - or can she help them find the truth without losing each other?
©2009 Susan Meissner; (P)2009 Random House

Review:

Tally’s father is off on one of his many adventures having left her in the care of her grandmother. This is nothing new except that her grandmother has died and no one can reach her dad. Tally is suddenly brought home to live with her Aunt. Tally doesn’t want to tell Aunt Amanda where her dad has gone but she is becoming more concerned the longer he is out of touch. Amanda worries about her brother but also is worried for Tally’s state of mind.

What may appear at first to be a stable, normal home setting, complete with the “white picket fence”, turns into a stressed filled home. Everyone is keeping secrets and they are disrupting the family peace.

Chase has repressed memories from a traumatic fire when he was a child. Aunt Amanda wants to speak openly about the memories and get counseling help if needed. Uncle Neil doesn't think Chase remembers and he doesn't want to bring it up. Neil spends more and more time in the garage working on nice woodwork projects for others without recognizing that his wife and children feel that he has abandoned them.

Chase actually is struggling with the memories seeking to remember portions which have been blocked. While he tries to cope with this, he, Tally and Chase’s best friend work on a school project interviewing two men in a nursing home who lived through the Holocaust and helped to sneak babies out of the Ghetto.

There is very interesting history provided through the interviews of the delightful characters. Although the story starts a bit slowly, it twists with the intensity of Chase’s emotions, some not so appropriate choices by Amanda and some delightful connections that tie the characters. 

I particularly liked a section where Chase has an epiphany and a new beginning. I also enjoyed the history of the German Ghetto which was new to me. My ladies book club all enjoyed the book but we felt there were some issues left unresolved. Reading through the author’s notes at the end of the print and Kindle version gave some perspective on this. The notes were not part of the Audible file. 

The book is Christian fiction but not at all preachy and the characters are far from perfect. I recommend this story to those who enjoy intrigue in a family setting.

Audio Notes: I was very impressed with the narrator’s ability to capture the different ages, voices and emotions for the characters. It enhanced the story for me and made it move more quickly than reading would have.

I read this for my local Ladies Book Club. I downloaded it on Audible to speed my "reading" time.

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY FOR PRINT COPY.

ENTRY FORM HERE

For 3 Extra Bonus entries Visit the author's website and tell me something you find of interest.

* This contest is open US Only.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on March 22, 2013.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on March 23, 2013.
Winners are asked to respond by email or the linked winners form within 72 hours of the announcement.

Audio Book Review: Natalie's Journey Back to Love by E. Jean Beres

I think this sweet story would be a good choice for anyone who has suffered a loss and is struggling to feel the emotions of love and joy again.
"Natalie's Journey Back to Love"
by E. Jean Beres (MindWings Audio)
Read By: Laural Merlington

(This data refers to the Kindle version.}
• File Size: 202 KB
• Print Length: 37 pages
• Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
• Publisher: Mind Wings Audio (November 18, 2011)
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.

Genre: Christian Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: November 18, 2011
When Natalie’s daughter and son-in-law were killed in a car accident, she inherited their house and the responsibility for their four children. She lost her husband two years earlier, and now feels overwhelmed. She’s bitter and feels forsaken. Pastor Richard Gill, helps her to cope. Through a growing closeness with Richard, Natalie discovers God’s love for her.

Review:
Natalie is bitter with God as she lost her husband two years before and now loses her daughter and son-in-law in a car accident. She has moved in with her four grandchildren and is struggling with her own grief as she tries to find energy and patience to deal with the children.  The oldest daughter, Angela, is 15 and wearing strange clothes as a means of establishing her independence through her pain.  Natalie learns she has a boy-friend pushing her for sex and other friends encouraging her to smoke.

Mark has a boa constrictor for a pet that escapes from his cage. Other than having to chase down the snake, Mark seems quiet, calm and responsible to do his homework, but he can still be a sullen young boy. Young five year old Lily is saddened by the loss of her parents but has the ability to say wise things that help to comfort Natalie. And three year old toddler Sam, sweet and warm, doesn’t fully understand what has happened but is the first to reach out and give hugs.

Natalie’s teenage sweetheart, Richard, has become the Pastor of the local church. He steadily encourages Natalie to re-connect with God and put her trust in him.  He asks Natalie, “What do you do with love? Give it away and God will pour more into you.”

This story is quite lovely. Natalie’s bitterness steams from her loss and stress at handling a whole new family. The children are appropriately portrayed for their ages. It is beautiful to see the growth in the whole family. Even Angela begins to change in attire and attitude. When Natalie notices Angela replies: “You’re showing me the way Grandma.”


Audio Notes: I really enjoyed the narration. Ms. Merlington does an excellent job of capturing the different voices, even those of the children. Her reading enhances the emotional sorrows and joys of the story. This Audio provides a full, beautiful story in under an hour listening enjoyment.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lily comforts Natalie (from the mouths of babes):

“But God is helping us. He knows what we are going through.”

I received this title for Review from MindWings Audio through AudioBook Jukebox.

Book Review and Giveaway: The Great Christmas Bowl by Susan May Warren

This is a quick read and a sweet, inspiring Christmas story based on a real life event.
The Great Christmas Bowl
by Susan May Warren

Format: Paperback
Number of Pages: 184
Vendor: Tyndale House
Publication Date: 2009
ISBN: 1414326785
ISBN-13: 9781414326788
Availability: Kindle Link
Genre: Contemporary, Holiday
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: December 7, 2012
Marianne Wallace is focused on two things this holiday season: planning the greatest family Christmas ever and cheering on her youngest son’s team in their bid for the state championship. Disaster strikes when the team loses their mascot—the Trout. Is it going too far to ask her to don the costume? So what if her husband has also volunteered her to organize the church Christmas tea. When football playoffs start ramping up, the Christmas tea starts falling apart. Then, one by one her children tell her they can’t come home for Christmas. As life starts to unravel, will Marianne remember the true meaning of the holidays?

Review:
Marianne loves staging her traditional holidays with her family. She and her EMT husband, Mike, are soon to be empty-nesters as four of their children have moved away to college. The youngest son, Kevin, is in high school and has finally joined the school football team, the Big Lake Trouts.

Marianne is disappointed that only a couple of the kids are coming home for Thanksgiving but she is still excited. Meanwhile she has been cheering on the Trouts who look like they have a chance to go to the state championship! Then the team lucky cheering mascot, an older gentleman who wears a large trout costume, has a heart attack. Kevin begs his mom to step in as the replacement trout. As embarrassing as that might be, Marianne can’t refuse her son.

To add to Marianne’s harassed holiday season she has been ‘drafted’ to be the new Hospitality Chairwoman at her church. That makes her responsible to handle the annual Christmas Tea. The older ladies of the church want the usual Swedish Meetballs but some of the younger ladies want a change. Marianne suggests making her famous Clam Chowder but the idea isn’t warmly received. She keeps putting off how to handle the situation even as the day creeps closer. Kevin and Mike are busy so she ends up decorating the tree by herself and dealing with more disappointing news that her children aren’t going to make it home for Christmas.

Marianne slowly, and hilariously, wiggles into her role as the Big Lake Trout. As the team continues to win the press shows up and interviews the 'Big Trout'. Someone mentions the Christmas dinner but it comes out as a Christmas Soup, and is misinterpreted as a Soup Kitchen.  Marianne is ready to give up but surprising help turns the problem into a success.

I loved the easy flow of this story and the real-life feel. I could picture Marianne’s reluctance to be the team fish and to be the hospitality chairwoman. I could also feel her frustrations and disappointments. I loved how Kevin began to stretch and grow in a great way and how his actions shine with the good things he has been taught. The circumstances surrounding the Tea hit close to home for me as we are preparing for our annual church tea to be held in January. This one is a fun story that makes you think about the true meaning of hospitality; of serving and helping others. I recommend this as a fun read with a good message.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Marianne's dilemma with the Church Tea:

"Did  you know that the real meaning of hospitality is 'giving comfort to strangers'?"... "If we want to have a party for ourselves, then let's just call it that."

This is a fun, quick read which I picked up as a Bargain sale at CBD for our  Ladies Book Club.

This is set in Big Lake, north of Twin Cities, Minnesota for My Where Are You Reading Challenge. I will also add this to my New Author Challenge list.(I thought I read this author before but looking over her titles I do not recognize any.)
TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for PRINT COPY - Two Winners.

ENTRY FORM HERE

For 3 Extra Bonus entries Visit the author's website and tell me something you find of interest.

* This contest is open INTERNATIONALLY.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on January 11, 2013.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on January 12, 2013.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review and Giveaway: Everybody Loved Roger Harden by Cecil Murphey

This is a nice blend of genres: cozy mystery and Christian fiction.

Everybody Loved Roger Harden (Everybody's Suspect in Georgia)
by Cecil Murphey

• Hardcover: 317 pages
• Publisher: Thorndike Pr; Lrg edition (December 9, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1410422232
• ISBN-13: 978-1410422231

Genre: Cozy Mystery, Christian Fiction
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Book Description

Publication Date: October 10, 2011

Psychologist Julie West and Reverend James Burton arrive late for dinner on Palm Island - but just in time to discover their host, millionaire Roger Harden, murdered. Ten possible suspects share closed quarters on the secluded island, all of them with deep secrets and sufficient motive to have wanted the wealthy benefactor dead. Can Julie and Burton ignore the mysterious attraction developing between them long enough to discover who among them didn't love Roger Harden enough to let him live?

Review:
Remember the classic Agathie Christie mysteries, Ten Little Indians, 13 Came to Dinner or the game/movie Clue?  Here is a book fashioned on the same premise but with some inspirational surprises added in.

Psychologist Julie West and Reverend James Burton (called Burton) arrive together for dinner at the exclusive Palm Island estate of millionaire Roger Harden.  There are ten guests properly seated all having been summoned, rather than invited, to the dinner. The problem is, the 8 pm bong sounds and Roger fails to appear.

When the cook/maid, Elaine, is sent to retrieve Roger from his study she finds him lying under his desk, dead.  Julie and Burton know they aren’t the killer. That leaves eight guests and two staff as suspects. They begin to interview the suspects to uncover motives and opportunity so they can pin point the killer.  Although everyone initially claims to have loved Roger it doesn’t take long for accusations across the table to reveal that everyone had reason to hate him. He was an obsessively controlling husband, an indifferent or demanding step-father and a controlling employer. No one was really a friend as it turns out that Roger knew a secret about each of them and used that he used as blackmail.

As the investigation proceeds another person is killed and one is shot at.  It isn’t until midway through the book that facts begin to reveal that Roger had been changing in his attitude over the past several weeks. Once revealed the source and consequences of Roger’s change mean that the murderer may have committed a crime that wasn’t necessary.

This was a fast and easy read.  The characters are well developed and there is a great contrast between Julie and Burton. Julie has a condemning and narrow focus not only towards he suspects but towards herself too.  Burton is gentle and non-judgmental allowing him to get the suspects to tell him their grievances with the deceased.

Our ladies book club members agreed this was an easy read although several felt it started slowly.  It was noted that all of the guests seemed rather nonchalant in spite of murders and attacks occurring around them. We all agreed that Simon, the ‘butler’, man-Friday, was a great secondary character.  He is a man that is more likely to shrug his shoulders than speak and when he does speak, it is few words, like “Wait no longer.”

I really enjoyed several of the inspirational elements that Mr. Murphey smoothly wove into the friendship developing between Julie and Burton. This is a fun read and just what it purports to be: a Christian Cozy Mystery.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Burton to Julie:

You keep bringing in judgmental words–like bad or wrong.  I’d prefer to say it this way: You and I live in different worlds.  Location 896.

I understand why a lot of people have turned away from church. I just wish they wouldn’t turn away from God, as well.....
That’s the direction I like to point people–from imperfect people to a perfect God.  Location 1972-74.

God may be your best option and not just your last one. Location 1986.

I have the three volume set (Everybody's Suspect in Georgia) but I picked up this paperback recently and now I offer it as a Giveaway.

This is set in Georgia. I will also add it to my New Author reading List.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for  used Print Copy - OPEN WORLDWIDE.**

ENTRY FORM HERE

For 3 Extra Bonus entries Visit  the author's website or The Man Behind the Words and tell me something you find of interest.

* This contest is open Worldwide **providing shipping is under $7.00.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on October 19, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED on October 20, 2012.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review and Review Copy Giveaway: Flabbergasted: A Novel

You may not see the whole picture till the end of the book, but then you should understood the title “Flabbergasted.”

Flabbergasted: A Novel

by Ray Blackston

Format: Paperback
Number of Pages: 336
Vendor: Revell
 ISBN: 080073453X
ISBN-13: 9780800734534

Genre: Christian Fiction

My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Book Description

Publication Date: May 1, 2010

When Flabbergasted stormed on the scene in 2003, the reviews came fast and furious: "Good writing and an ample dose of humor make this as charming as Bridget Jones's Diary from the male point of view."--Library Journal "Blackston's novel will tickle your literary taste buds with a relational gumbo of quirky characters."--Christian Book Previews "Amazing. A novel that is simultaneously serious, hilarious, and impossible to put down."--The Dallas Morning News "With a colorful cast of quirky characters and a plot full of surprises, this is one of the feel-good novels of the year."--CCM Now this summertime favorite about a single stock broker looking for love in the murky waters of the southern church singles scene is repackaged with a hot new look.

Review:

Jay is a stock broker who has recently moved to a city in South Carolina. His realtor agent recommends the best way to meet girls in this Bible Belt town is to attend church.

The very first morning in church young singles group he spots an intriguing young woman.  He soon learns that the young lady, Allie, is an elder’s daughter and home temporarily for a visit from her missions job. Jay joins the group for a weekend beach party where he makes several new friends and furthers a friendship with Allie.

There are lots of fun characters and fun circumstances in this novel. The inside cover flap introduces many characters in a unique way that sets the humorous tone.  I loved the subtle humor and Mr. Blackston’s portrayal of real - as in flawed - Christians ranging from casual (here to meet a mate) to hyper, turn off, religious snobs, with some sincere believers in between.

There are also some wonderful Christian questions (what car would Jesus drive?) and surprisingly deep insights. Although I was rather surprised that several characters did not directly share the gospel message with Jay, I loved how the author allowed him to see the difference in their lives until a point when Jay gets the message from a well delivered sermon.

Jay is offered a profitable position in New York and is about to head off to the ticker tape jungle. He decides to take a quick detour to the jungles of Equador to visit Allie and invite her to visit him in New York.  How will the simple beauties and life of children in the missions camp effect Jay’s view of success and life goals? It is well worth the read to find out!

I picked this book up as a summer read for our Ladies’ Book club not really knowing what to expect. We were all pleased and agreed that the writing was fun and the message was worthwhile. It makes a great group read for discussion too.

I had the print book at home but since I was out of town I picked up the kindle and then the Audible version to listen to in the car. The narrator does a good job with character voices and a great job delivering the subtle humor, sarcasms and sincere proclamations. I can recommend the audio version if you prefer listening, although I was glad to have the print and kindle versions to note significant phrases which is hard to do with audio. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Quotes:
Officer giving speeding tickets while the ‘caravan’ of kids headed out to Myrtle Beach.

“Lemme tell you something boys. I been in church for most of my forty-eight years, and I think Jesus would either drive the Lincoln, or if pressed for time, maybe one of those muscle cars. You know, the power and the glory.” Location 196.

Allie to Jay after they drift out too far and out of control caught the ocean currents - can you picture this as a statement of our lives?

“Really dumb to just float off and drift blind and not peek at least once to see where we were.” Location 748.

This was our Ladies' Book Club pick for June 30.

This was set in Greenville, SC for my Where Are You Reading Challenge. I will also add it to my New Author challenge.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The reason I saved this review for July 4 is my own personal thought combined with part of the book’s message. One preacher gives the message:

“We have taken ‘Holy, Holy, Holy’ and turned it into ‘vague, vague and very vague’... all this vaguery and the need to be inoffensive has saturated our country...." Location 1566.

I can’t help but see that in my beloved country today.  Americans are so blessed with abundance that we are spoiled. We do not appreciate our freedoms; we give too little credit to those who fought and continue to fight for freedom. We do not appreciate the simple ways of life and the most important purposes of life because we are smothered in our materialism and in vaguery, political correctness. We squander so much while we barely see the poverty and day to day struggles to just live that exist all around the world. How sad.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for my Review Copy:

1. Visit the author's website and tell me something you find of interest. This is required for entry.

2.  For an extra entry, become a follower on any media (GFC, Twitter @MSEREADS, Facebook fanpage: http://www.facebook.com/ReviewsByMarthasBookshelf , Goodreads or Linky - links on right sidebar) or tell me if you are already a follower.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Two total entries possible.)

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on July 13, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on July 14.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement. 

(Audible) Book Review and ARC Giveaway: Illusion by Frank Peretti

Peretti has a gift for creating characters who draw you in and a story that engages your emotions and keeps you turning pages.

Illusion

by Frank Peretti

• Paperback: 576 pages
• Publisher: Howard Books (October 23, 2012)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1451669305
• ISBN-13: 978-1451669305

Genre:  Paranormal, Christian Fiction

My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

 Book Description
Publication Date: March 6, 2012
Dane and Mandy, a popular magic act for forty years, are tragically separated by a car wreck that claims Mandy’s life—or so everyone thinks. Even as Dane mourns and tries to rebuild his life without her, Mandy, supposedly dead, awakes in the present as the nineteen-year-old she was in 1970. Distraught and disoriented in what to her is the future, she is confined to a mental ward until she discovers a magical ability to pass invisibly through time and space to escape. Alone in a strange world, she uses her mysterious powers to eke out a living, performing magic on the streets and in a quaint coffee shop.

Hoping to discover an exciting new talent, Dane ventures into the coffee shop and is transfixed by the magic he sees, illusions that even he, a seasoned professional, cannot explain. But more than anything, he is emotionally devastated by this teenager who has never met him, doesn’t know him, is certainly not in love with him, but is in every respect identical to the young beauty he first met and married some forty years earlier.

They begin a furtive relationship as mentor and protégée, but even as Dane tries to sort out who she really is and she tries to understand why she is drawn to him, they are watched by secretive interests who not only possess the answers to Mandy’s powers and misplacement in time but also the roguish ability to decide what will become of her.

Frank Peretti has crafted a rich, rewarding story of love and life, loss and restoration, full of twists and mystery. Exceptionally well written, Illusion will soon prove another Peretti classic.

Review:
We are introduced to Dane in a hospital struggling with the death and charred image of his wife of 40 years.  They were broadsided in a car accident and Dane was unable to get Mandy out and had to watch as the car was engulfed in flames.  Not knowing what else to do, Dane continues on their interrupted journey to purchase their new home in Idaho where they dreamed of a perfect retirement spot. He doesn’t know how he will continue his life without Mandy who was not only his companion but also his partner in their popular magic act. After all, “She was the dream. The house was just a frame around the picture.” Page 61.

While Dane suffers through his grief, Mandy wakes up as a nineteen year old girl 40 years into her future. She remembers the first 18 years of her life in Idaho but it should be 1970, not 2010. Her confusion gets her taken to the hospital and after examination and questioning they put her in the mental ward. Suddenly she discovers a way to slip out of the hospital as if invisible.

Mandy has always loved magic tricks and she begins to do small magic acts to make money. Dane spots her on the street and then again in the local coffee shop. The first time his grief may have made him think he was seeing a young Mandy but the second time he begins to wonder what is going on.  Mandy is thrilled to have Dane help train her and she quickly becomes adept at doing amazing tricks that seem to have extra hands.

It becomes clear that some manipulated experiment is going on. Slowly the secrets of the technology are revealed as certain participants decide that the moral ethics out way the possible benefits of trying to control human lives.

The story has definite Twilight Zone elements but is so much fuller of emotion. It is a roller coaster for Dane as he runs the gamut from deep grief of loss to the apparent joy of discovering that which was lost, then sinking again realizing the dream can not be. Mandy is on her own ride as she tries to figure out who she is, what her past means and how she manages her magic. The doves that she befriends are a sweet addition.

The story shows that man is not omnipotent; not in control. The handlers loose control of the project as Mandy’s soul overpowers the system to seek out its own path, seek its true identity, and seek those she loves and trusts even though she doesn’t know why.

This is different from his first novels, This Present Darkness and Piercing the Darkness, which were spiritual warfare presentations that absolutely gave me a new view of demons and changed my prayer life.  The story moves along quickly and I found this story lovely in the way that Peretti quietly weaves God and faith into the story more as a life-style acknowledgment. I think this story could have a broader readership as it seems more paranormal to me than Christian Fiction although the recognition of God’s hand is pretty steady throughout. If you have read Peretti before I think you will enjoy this although don’t expect the same as his earlier writings. If you have never read this author I highly recommend this story as a introduction to his entertaining talent, captivating characters and emotional fullness.

Audible Comments:
When I saw that the Audible version was narrated by the author I decided to listen to this rather than just read.  The pacing is good and the reading was emotionally engaging. I really enjoyed the author's emphasis as the narrator.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Two passages I really liked.

19 year old Mandy reminds Dane of the day they met on the sidewalk where she was doing tricks as a gypsy:

“It was a God thing. Don’t you think it was a God thing?”
....
“I think . . . I think it sure seemed like it. Of course, when you trust God with your life, most everything is a God thing, so sure. It was a God thing.” Page 234.

Dane reflects on the life he has to live without Mandy:

Since when did God choose only painless lessons for his children? Page 270.

Thank you to Handlebar Marketing for the chance to review this book and to and host a giveaway!

This story is based primarily in Idaho for the Where Are You Reading challenge. I will also add it to my ARC challenge and Audio challenge.

The publicist has made one extra ARC copy (with the cover to the left) available for giveaway.  
TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY: 
 1. Visit the Author's website and tell me something that interests you there. This is required for entry.

2.  For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Two total entries possible.)

THERE WILL BE ONE WINNER.

* This contest is open US and Canada only.

* One Winner per household.

* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on April 27, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries and announced on April 28 with 72 hours to complete the winners' form.

Book Review: Shadow Boxing by Karen Wiesner

This engaging story has real characters with an interesting 'empty nest' story.

Shadow Boxing [Family Heirlooms Series Book 2]

by Karen Wiesner

• Format: Kindle Edition
• File Size: 279 KB
• Publisher: Whiskey Creek Press LLC (May 1, 2011)
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
• Language: English
• ASIN: B0058UNY82

     Genre:  Contemporary, Christian Fiction
     My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Product Description 

WRDF Top Read of Excellence!

1st Place winner in the contemporary romance category of the 2010 Love Romances & More Golden Rose Award!

5 Hearts Award - The Romance Studio

Joined before God and family out of a sense of responsibility? Or love?

As a teenager, Justine Morris’s escape from the pressures of caring for her dying father was stolen moments with Joshua Samuels. But their tender, desperate liaison found them facing teen pregnancy. Afraid of their Christian families’ responses to the situation, they married quickly and built a life for their child.

But now that their daughter is ready to fly the nest, Justine can no longer ignore the truth: She and Joshua haven’t had a real marriage for a long time. Maybe they never had one at all.

Joshua is only too aware that his busy, professional attorney wife is an independent woman who never really needed him. After nearly two decades of marriage, he’s quit trying to get more than a piece of her at a time. Without their daughter holding them together, he knows the chasm between them will grow to epic proportions.

Their empty nest looming, they face the hard questions. Had they married in love…or out of a hasty sense of responsibility? Was it God’s will for them to be together? And now, is it worth the effort to learn to become one as the Lord intends for a man and a woman…or better to simply let go?

Review:
This is an interesting story of a couple facing their upcoming empty nest as distant companions instead of supportive mates. After 18 years of marriage Justine still believes that Joshua only accepted their marriage out of duty as he has never really expressed his love for her. She has allowed guilt for her youthful sin to smolder, diminishing her own self worth.  She feels she is a burden to Joshua.

Joshua works with his hands building unique and beautiful furniture. He believes his smart and professional wife is self sufficient and doesn’t need him.  It seems they have nothing in common except their daughter, Vashti, whom they adore. Now that Vashti will be going away to college there will be nothing to hold them together.

Neither Justine nor Joshua have learned to communicate in their marriage. Joshua has always been quiet and cautious and reluctant to impose himself. Justine has always been a care giver, and has never learned to accept help much less express her own needs or desires. Also, Justine is too afraid of being hurt to risk opening up. The couple have allowed a wall of distance which is only breached during their passionate lovemaking. Even then, as soon as they finish they separate and the wall returns.

As her best friend, Kimberly, tells her - they have been “shadow boxing” with one another and never facing their issues headon. Even their daughter recognizes that she has been the glue to hold them together. Fearing that they will separate when she goes to college, Vashti arranges for all three of them to go on a missions trip to Mexico. I like the trick that Vashti uses to get her parents to begin to open up to each other.

Joshua clearly represents the man in the counseling session who says: “I told her I loved her when we married and I’ve never changed my mind.” Justine has never truly forgiven herself nor allowed herself to risk being fully loved.

I loved the quotes about love at the beginning of each chapter and have to say that the book would be worth getting just for those. As a bonus the book brings a well developed story too.
I enjoyed the details from the mission trip – the poverty and the struggles in the hot Mexico sun.
I appreciate the author’s wonderful ability to create real characters, even if I wanted to give the characters a good shaking.  I enjoyed the depth of the characters and the presentation of the emotional issues.  This story is good reading for those who enjoy real-to-life family issues.

Justine and Joshua have difficulty defining love. Joshua thought about examples he saw around him but realized:

None of those things could be love. Christ-like love didn't bear the slightest resemblance to what people in this day and age considered love. Location 1605. 

Vashti's wise insight:

...but I think you fell in love, did things out of order and you and Dad kind of lost yourselves and each other along the way of parenting, repentance and responsibility. Location 1732.

Thank you to the author, Karen Wiesner, for this book to read and review.

I will add this to my ARC challenge list.

Book Review: Baby, Baby by Karen Wiesner

Once again Ms. Wiesner has crafted real to life characters in a warm, believable story.

Baby, Baby [Family Heirlooms Series Book 1]  
by Karen Wiesner

• Format: Kindle Edition
• File Size: 377 KB
• Publisher: Whiskey Creek Press LLC (April 1, 2011)
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
• Language: English
• ASIN: B0056HP6QK

     Genre:  Christian Fiction, Inspirational Romance
     My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Product Description Book One Family Heirloom: Accepting God’s will A Proverbs 31 wife wonders, does “submissive” mean giving up having anything of her own?

Thirty-seven-year-old Tamara Wolfe married her childhood sweetheart, Robert, right out of high school and proceeded to have a passel of children who fill her life to capacity. With the last of her children in preschool, Tamara decides to make a business out of her long-time love of creating designer gift baskets. She doesn’t expect Robert to be against it from her first word.

Robert has always prided himself on giving Tamara the option of staying home to raise the children, just as his father did before him. Since birth, it’s been drilled into him that a man who doesn’t provide for his family is the worst kind of loser. What will happen if her business takes off? She won’t have time to take care of the family. Worse, maybe she won’t need him anymore.

Although they’d agreed years before their family was complete, Robert considers that perhaps the cure for Tamara’s restlessness is another baby.

Tamara prays for wisdom. All she wants is a small space of time for herself. Is she being selfish? Or is God leading her to continue being an outdated model of the Proverbs 31 wife--submissive, but never equal?

Review:

Tamara and Robert have had a nice marriage raising several children together. They have shared their ups and downs and most importantly have shared their faith. As their youngest child enters pre-school, Tamara is encouraged by a stranger to market the gift baskets that have been a labor of love for her to make special and give as gifts. Before she even realizes it Tamara is buying the materials and passing out flyers through her friends and sister-in-law who think this is a grand idea.

Unfortunately, when Tamara presents the idea to Robert he is angered and threatened. Robert’s father had always insisted that it was the husband’s responsibility to provide for the family and his wife had no business going out to work. Robert had no idea how limiting this was for his mother and he has managed to forget his mother’s unhappiness at the restrictions placed on her.

Robert argues that setting up the basket business will effect Tamara’s household and family life. Also he insists that they don’t need the extra money that she could bring in. Even if it would help with upcoming college expenses which will stress their  budget if he doesn’t get the promotion he is fighting for at work.

Robert is a worrier and has had times of depression that Tamara has patiently worked through. Now he gets more tense as the promotion looks like it will go to a less qualified co-worker. He also wonders if Tamara might be attracted to another man at their church who has had a secret crush on her for years. Tamara is concerned that Robert may even be trying to force her to get pregnant to keep her with young ones so she can’t develop this side interest.  His behavior causes pain and hurt for Tamara and frightens his sister who thinks that he will be unreasonably dictatorial like their father.

Tamara is a beautiful, loving and supportive character - I’d love a friend like her. Robert’s work stresses are very vivid to me as my husband had to deal with a similar situation. The tension builds and secrets are revealed. The couple experiences much stress and some estrangement before they can talk clearly and hear each other’s concerns and desires. This communication problem is so real in life, as are the problem of worrying too much and the issue of submission being improperly used as a tool of control in some Christian households.

The writing flows well and kept me engaged in the interesting problems. I was anxious to learn how the matters were resolved.  I highly recommend reading Ms. Wiesner’s works if you enjoy life-like stories that deal with real Christian issues.

Interesting quotes:
Tamara's thoughts:
Has she been so giving that her own husband felt no compunction about being selfish and insensitive to her?  Location 1533

Tamara to a friend whose husband isn’t a believer:
“Ed doesn’t own your soul. The Lord does, and He wants to be the source of your reliance.”  Location 2033

Thank you to the Author for this book to enjoy and review.

Book Review and Giveaway: Deeper Water by Robert Whitlow

I highly recommend this book!

Deeper Water (Tides of Truth Series, Book 1)

by Robert Whitlow

• Paperback: 400 pages
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson (June 3, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1595541322
• ISBN-13: 978-1595541321

 Genre:  Christian Fiction
My Rating:  4.75 of 5.0

Book Description

Publication Date: June 3, 2008

The Tides of Truth novels follow one lawyer's passionate pursuit of truth in matters of life and the law.

In the murky waters of Savannah's shoreline, a young law student is under fire as she tries her first case at a prominent and established law firm. A complex mix of betrayal and deception quickly weaves its way through the case and her life, as she uncovers dark and confusing secrets about the man she's defending--and the senior partners of the firm.

How deep will the conspiracy run? Will she have to abandon her true self to fulfill a higher calling? And how far will she have to go to discover the truth behind a tragic cold case?

Review:
My notes on completing this book: Wow! Slow start but picks up; easy reading, awesome and unique plotline; engaging warmth and deep faith.

The book opens upon the scene of an elderly black man poling his aluminum johnboat in the deep marshy waters of a Savannah river. Moses is fishing in the dark of night and he is distressed by the faces he sees in the water that apparently bring old memories he would rather hide from.  The reader won’t know for a bit how Moses ties in to the story of the main protagonist, a young law student, but all will become clear soon enough.

Tammy Lynn is a second year law student who is able to secure a summer internship with a prestigious law firm in Savannah. This is a wonderful but scary opportunity. Tammy Lynn  has been raised in a close knit, deeply religious and conservative family. She has been home schooled and her first real experiences outside of her small home community have been as a student at the University of Georgia.  She has not made lots of friends at school because she is rather clearly different:  she never wears pants, she doesn’t date, drink or party. 

Tammy Lynn secretly sent her resumes out under the name of “Tami”. Although she doesn’t
mean any disrespect to her parents it appears to be a step into another phase of life. She will not be going to Savannah without the approval of her parents and without a clear answer from God to their, and her own, prayers.  That is how the family operates in life. God is their guide in all decisions and they do not rush, but wait until they have an answer.

There is so much that goes on in this story as Tami is challenged at work and in social and personal situations. She meets many people who are clearly different from her upbringing.  Her convictions are constantly bombarded.  The other female intern is Jewish and although not orthodox, she has cousins who are.  Julie challenges Tami’s boundaries but she also respects her convictions.

The third intern is a young man, Vince, from Yale.  He is serious, brilliant and a Christian, albeit a more mainstream Christian.  Then there is the law associate who is to mentor her, Zach. She discovers that he was raised in a Christian communal group in California.

Both Zach and Vince show interest in Tami so in addition to being given new challenges at work she also faces the new situation of ‘dating’ or for her it is more like old fashioned ‘stepping out’ to get to know each other better. But first she must seek her parent’s approval.

Meanwhile, one of her work assignments is developing into a mystery that may involve senior members of her own firm. Who can she trust to help her? Is she willing to risk her future career chances if she stands firm to protect a client against what she views as a conflict with the firm?

Of course I like that this book and series are about a law student and include scenes in law firms and court - I felt pretty much at home.  I liked the easy writing style and the plot flow that makes it clear there can be other stories with these characters. I particularly like that this story is steeped in faith.  It is not religious dressing or preachy but it is full of relational depth where Tami and her family rely upon God for direction in all things. This story concludes the criminal mystery but the relational issues are open to move on to the next story!

Our ladies book group all loved this book and one friend had already started the second in the series before we met. There is a study guide at the back to help deepen group discussions.

This book is set in Georgia  for my Where Are You Reading challenge; it will also go on my New Author challenge list.

I have two new books from our group reading - a couple of us end up reading on Kindle or Nook.
TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the print book - Two Winners:

1. Visit the author site and tell me something of interest you found there.  This is required for entry.

2. For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3.  For two entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Four total entries possible.)

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.

* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on February 3, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
The WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on February 4. 
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review and Giveaway: Lonestar Secrets by Colleen Coble

This is engaging Christian fiction.
Lonestar Secrets (Lonestar Series, Book 2) by Colleen Coble

Audible/Audio 
Lonestar Secrets

• UNABRIDGED
• by Colleen Coble
• Narrated by Aimee Lilly

Genre:  Christian Fiction

My Rating:  3.75 of 5.0  - But the ladies all give it a thumbs up!

Product Description
Can a secret be kept forever?
Five years ago, Shannon Astor left the beautiful high-mountain country of West Texas as a single mother. She was desperate for a fresh start...and a way to keep the secrets of her past buried. It almost worked.

Until a chance to make a better life for her daughter leads her right back home. To the very place of the past betrayals.

But it also leads Shannon to horse-trainer Jack MacGowan--her handsome high-school nemesis, now a widowed father. His daughter looks so startlingly like her own that Shannon can't help but question the circumstances surrounding her daughter's birth. Wary of each other's intentions, Shannon and Jack reluctantly join forces to untangle a deep mystery that swirls around Shannon's parents, a lost Spanish treasure, and a legendary black stallion.

If Shannon can learn to entrust her secrets to the man falling in love with her, the truth just might set her free.

Review: This is a story centered on the effect of secrets.

Shannon is a bright, determined, young single mother.  She had put herself through veterinary school and was living in a squalid apartment in the city.  When her uncle dies and leaves her the family ranch in West Texas she decides to return ‘home’ to take over the small veterinary practice from the retiring vet.  She knows she will face some issues going home but she is surprised to suddenly see a child who looks just like her daughter, Kylie. The girl, Faith, is the daughter of Shannon’s high school nemesis, Jack. Jack was the one who ridiculed Shannon in school resulting in her becoming an ostracized loner.  Shannon has never trusted anyone since that betrayal and the betrayal of her daughter’s father.

Jack is a handsome, rich wrangler.  He is the son of a powerful state Senator but rather than live the frenzied, socialite life of a politician Jack has chosen to be a horse trainer and stay close to home and family.  Jack is also shocked to see Kylie. He doesn’t understand how the girls could look enough alike to be twins! Then Shannon makes a startling discovery that puts both girls at risk in their circumstances.

Shannon proposes - literally - as a solution to the dilemma. They agree to marry for the sake of the girls but Shannon doesn’t trust Jack.  Although no marriage should begin with crucial secrets  Shannon is unwilling to disclose hers.  Jack loved his wife and is reluctant to let go of her memory which makes the new relationship even more difficult. Meanwhile someone is threatening Shannon’s best friend if Shannon doesn’t deliver a ransom even though she has no idea what they want. More complications settle in when Kylie’s birth father begins to make claims.

There is a lot going on in this story which keeps it moving quickly. However I was very frustrated by Shannon’s failure to disclose important facts that should be revealed before marriage. I also felt that the kidnapping, threats and attacks where a bit loose and therefor not fully realistic. I enjoyed the main message of the story that love is a choice and an action, not a feeling. I also liked the issues of forgiveness and seeking good in others who seem to be beyond goodness.

I listened to this book on Audible and the narration was acceptable... not wonderful but not detracting either.

Even though I wasn’t thrilled with the heroine, the story is engaging. This was our book club read and all the ladies really liked the story more than I did. One woman read books one and three this week too. I would read more by this author but have lots more to read before getting back to her.

One of the lady's in our group donated  her paperback to me for this giveaway. We love to share books and inspirational is a bonus. :-)

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the gently used copy:
1. Visit the author's website and tell me something of interest you found there. This is required for entry.

2.  For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3. For two entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Four total entries possible.)

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.

* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on September 30, 2011. (This month's book giveaways will all end on the 30th except for Friday Picks.)
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
The WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED between October 1 and 3. Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review: Letter Perfect by Cathy Marie Hake

This is wonderful Christian fiction with grounded faith, sweet romance and a bit of mystery.

Letter Perfect (California Historical Series #1) by Cathy Marie Hake.

• Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (August 1, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0764201654
• ASIN: B001C2FW3U 

Genre: Chrisitian Historical Romance
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Product Description:
If her own two feet don't end up tripping her, Ruth Caldwell's mouth is likely to get her into equal trouble. But Ruth has the best of intentions. Truly. It's just that her attempts to live up to her mother's expectations of how a lady should act have often yielded...well, less than impressive results.

Josh McCain is speechless when he sees Ruth step off the stage in Folsom, California. Sure, it looks like she's been sleeping in her gown for the past week, but with a crown of riotous curls and those deep green eyes, she's certainly the most beautiful woman he's ever met.

But Josh soon finds the sparks that fly upon Ruth's arrival aren't the romantic type. With her legitimate claims to an inheritance, the Broken P Ranch's future is suddenly precarious. And when Ruth's "accidents"--going beyond even her normal bumbling ways--seem to take a sinister turn, Josh must decide where his loyalties lie.

Review:  This is delightful and the ladies from my book club enjoyed it too.

Ruth Caldwell is a brave, bright young lady but her independent ways keep her from fitting into the mold of the respectable ladies’ schools. She is distressed that she is sent home once again to disappoint her mother.  Ruth’s mother gives deathbed instructions for Ruth to go west to Broken P Ranch to be with her father. Ruth finds this difficult as she has never met her father who sent her mother away before he even learned that she was pregnant. When Ruth arrives in California she learns that her father is dead.

Josh McCain is a quiet and intense man. Ruth’s father had a drinking problem and did not get control of himself until he got help from Josh and Josh’s father, Mr. McCain.  The McCains made an arrangement with Mr. Caldwell to help with the failing ranch. They would get half of the ranch now and the other half under his Will since he didn’t know he had any heirs.

If Ruth can prove that she is Mr. Caldwell’s daughter then she will inherit fifty percent of the ranch. Although Josh is unhappy about the circumstances and Ruth’s possible claim, he agrees that Ruth can stay at the ranch until the circuit Judge can hear the case. Josh’s sister Laney has been needing a female companion and is thrilled to have Ruth.

The lovely, kind Laney is frilly and ladylike next to Ruth’s clumsy, cheerful and practical personality. They become fast friends. Ruth wants to do chores but Josh thinks she is too clumsy and Mr. McCain insists she should be more of a lady like his daughter. When Ruth wants to set up a library in town she meets with more opposition but she is determined.

Soon the accidents that are happening begin to look more deliberate than accidental. Who could be trying to injure Ruth? Is it one of the ranch hands who seems to be following her? Or could it be someone in the family who is upset with her inheritance claim?

I really enjoyed Ruth’s independence but mostly I loved her steadfast faith. There is another neighbor family whose elder son takes a shine to Ruth although Laney has been sweet on him for some time. Galen is a fine Christian and I enjoyed the faith and interactions of his family too.  The faith messages flow naturally in the story.

The story moves along well with the charming and likeable characters and the mysterious attacks. The villain’s misdoings are slowly exposed until the full extent of the evil and twisted mind are revealed at the end. This was a very lovely read and I am definitely interested in the sequel and more stories by this author.