Audio Book Review and Giveaway: The Hashtag Hunt by Kristina Seek

I enjoyed this quick, fun romantic comedy.
The Hashtag Hunt
By: Kristina Seek
Narrated by: Andrea Emmes, Tim Paige

Length: 5 hrs and 18 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 06-12-19
Language: English
Publisher: The Audio Flow, LLC
Genre: Clean Romance, Inspirational Romance, Romantic Comedy
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
The only reason Lauren entered the Hashtag Hunt was for the $10,000 grand prize. She needed seed money for her startup, and it sounded easy enough: 12 hours to text 12 photos to someone called the Wizard. For hashtag number five, Lauren needs a #HottieInTheWild, and with the help of her best friend, Ivy, she finds the perfect subject.
The only reason Brenner entered Barkley’s Pub was to have beers with Scott, an Army brother back in town. The reunion is interrupted when a woman is caught crouched in a dark corner, taking pictures of Brenner. Lauren explains, and though embarrassed, she accepts Scott and Brenner’s offer to help with hashtag number six.
While hunting for hashtags, Lauren finds adventure and romance with her #Hottie, but she must stay focused to beat the clock and win the cash.
©2018 Kristina Seek (P)2019 The Audio Flow, LLC

Review:
Lauren has a great group of friends who support her. Her friend Ivy has inherited funds and she would be more than happy to gift or lend the money Lauren needs to open her dream store, Paperback Vinyl, for used books, records and related items. But Lauren is set on earning her own way before opening the store. She has entered Hashtag Hunt, an online contest hoping to win the $10,000.00 prize. The hunt requires texting 12 specific images in 12 hours to the host, “Wizard”.

Ivy has helped Lauren get into the top five of the leader board as they begin Challenge 5 of 12: #HitW, Hottie In The Wild. The girls are ready to leave the current pub when a new man walks in. Lauren has found her HitW and sets out to surreptitiously get pictures of him. Then he and his service buddy, Scott, capture Lauren in the act.

When Brenner and Scott, “Skully”, learn the reason for the pictures, they insist on joining the party. Scott is immediately intent on getting to know Ivy better and Brenner is pleased to find out if Lauren has any flaws. The guys add great banter and romance on the hunt while Lauren calls other friends to help locate items needed which include: dumpster find, ‘old school’, pay phone and more. Lauren starts to fall for Brenner, but she has to keep her head about her to stick within the rules if she is going to win the contest.

I quickly was pulled in by the light tone of the story and the fun friend interaction. I’ve always loved scavenger hunts and road rallies and I loved the idea of this contest. The rules made it tricky and challenging which I liked. The addition of the romance interest is sweet and at times sappy. Not everyone believes in love at first sight (it’s how I met my hubby) but even if it is strong interest at first sight it makes the story upbeat and warm. I also liked how the story rotates POV between Lauren and Brenner. This kept the momentum and interest engaging for me. I would enjoy reading/listening to more fun stories from Ms. Seek and I recommend this to romance readers looking for a cute, lighthearted story.

Audio Notes:Andrea Emmes and Tim Paige do a great job with the narration. They share the light tone and fun energy. The narration enhanced an enjoyable experience.

Source: Blitz Tour through Caffeinated PR Tours to post 7/18/19. This qualifies for 2019Audiobook goal.

The Hashtag Hunt by Kristina Seek

The Hashtag Hunt by Kristina Seek narrated by Andrea Emmes -Award Winning, Best Selling Audiobook Narrator and Tim Paige. Check out the deets, listen to a sound bite and enter to win a fabulous prize. We think you're going to love this fun, original romance.

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About the Author

Kristina Seek's debut novel, The Hashtag Hunt, was published in 2018. She is a graduate of Queens College in Charlotte and a member of Romance Writers of America. In March of 2019, she quit her day job to focus on a career in writing. Kristina lives in North Carolina with her husband and son. She cherishes time with her friends and family, loves traveling to new destinations, and wants to cross off the other items on her bucket list.

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Book Review: Whispers in the Reading Room (The Chicago World's Fair Mystery Series Book 3) by Shelley Gray

I loved this warm, gentle novel that tells of characters seeking acceptance.

Whispers in the Reading Room
(The Chicago World's Fair Mystery Series Book 3)
by Shelley Gray

File Size: 1873 KB
Print Length: 346 pages
Publisher: Zondervan (November 10, 2015)
Sold by: HarperCollins Publishing
ASIN: B00UF72AB0
Genre: Inspirational, Mystery
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

Lydia’s job at the library is her world—until a mysterious patron catches her eye . . . and perhaps her heart.
Just months after the closure of the Chicago World’s Fair, librarian Lydia Bancroft finds herself fascinated by a mysterious dark-haired and dark-eyed patron. He has never given her his name; he actually never speaks to a single person. All she knows about him is that he loves books as much as she does.
Only when he rescues her in the lobby of the Hartman Hotel does she discover that his name is Sebastian Marks. She also discovers that he lives at the top of the prestigious hotel and that most everyone in Chicago is intrigued by him.
Lydia and Sebastian form a fragile friendship, but when she discovers that Mr. Marks isn’t merely a very wealthy gentleman, but also the proprietor of an infamous saloon and gambling club, she is shocked.
Lydia insists on visiting the club one fateful night and suddenly is a suspect to a murder. She must determine who she can trust, who is innocent, and if Sebastian Marks—the man so many people fear—is actually everything her heart believes him to be.

Review:
Lydia loves her job at the reading room. The library has become her world. When she is not exploring worlds in the books, she is watching the patrons. She is fascinated with a dark, mysterious, handsome man who spends time in the library reading but never checks out a book. Lydia doesn’t realize that the man has noted her observing him.

Sebastian has pulled himself from poverty to business ownership. He is a very wealthy man but makes his money from the operation of a saloon and gambling club. He doesn’t want to hang out with the working class but he doesn’t meet the requirements to be considered a true ‘gentleman’. So he is a man caught between worlds. He secretly finds Lydia intriguing as a lady who works and clearly loves reading.

Sebastian steps in to rescue Lydia from a situation during tea at the prestigious Hartman Hotel. Lydia ends up with a broken engagement but is glad to begin a friendship with her mysterious reader. When Lydia learns of Sebastian’s business she presses him to show her the club. He reluctantly agrees and the decision puts them all in conflict and danger. Lydia and Sebastian find themselves as ‘parties of interest’, if not suspects, in a murder outside the club doors while Lydia is in the club.

Initially the events draw Sebastian and Lydia closer and she becomes friends with the maid who Sebastian employs to help her at home. But Sebastian fears he is dragging her into danger. Lydia never believed that Sebastian was the murderer but he murders her dreams when he pushes her away and leaves her stumbling to straighten out her life.

There is darkness in the seedy side of the city and the rough dwellers yet the tone of the novel, in writing style and plot, is “gentle”. I loved that Ms. Gray was able to show the many facets of Sebastian’s personality, but particularly the gentleness. The two secondary characters, Bridget, a maid with a history, and Vincent, Sebastian’s right hand manager, add depth and interest. They too are looking for acceptance but not always in the right way. There is a light, inspirational message shared through the struggles of all of the characters. Gray also provides good historical background of the Chicago World’s Fair and the surrounding city with its divided classes.

Some books just “click” or resonate with a reader – this one did for me. I enjoyed it from beginning to the end and I will be glad to read more by Ms. Gray. I recommend that readers who enjoy a gentle, historical romance, with a touch of danger and mystery, treat themselves to this gem.

I received this through NetGalley. I am so glad I selected this and it adds to my NetGalley challenge.

Book Review and Print Giveaway: Jennifer by Dee Henderson

This is a lovely, Christian romance.

Jennifer: An O'Malley Love Story, O'Malley Series #1
By Dee Henderson

Hardcover: 160 pages
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers; 4.1.2013 edition
(May 1, 2013)
ISBN-10: 0764211129
ISBN-13: 978-0764211126
Genre: Christian Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Product Description
It's a summer of change for Jennifer O'Malley.
The busy physician has a pediatrics practice in Dallas, Texas, and meeting and falling in love with surgeon Tom Peterson is adding a rich layer to her life. She's sorting out how to introduce Tom to her family she's the youngest of seven and thinking about marriage.
She's falling in love with Jesus too, and knows God is good. But that faith is about to be tested, and in a way she didn't expect. The results will soon transform her entire family.

Review:
Jennifer was an orphan who was ‘adopted’ into the O’Malley group of young boys and girls during foster care years. Although each child has found their own career path, they are still close and protective of each other. Jennifer is a pediatrician who has a special heart for all patients, but especially her young cancer patients. She must cope with the highs and lows, remissions and losses that go along with that deadly disease.

Tom is a busy surgeon who hasn’t found the right woman to interest him in settling down and starting his own family. He is intrigued by Jennifer’s energy and giving spirit when he meets her. They begin to share time around their hospital duties and slowly spending time together after work. Then he invites her to church and quietly shares his faith with her without being pushy but showing the importance it has in his own life.

When Jennifer unexpectedly faces a crisis, the fear and anger she experiences are understandable. She has to decide if she will face the issue alone or allow Tom, and maybe even God, to help her.

I read the O’Malley series a number of years ago and really enjoyed them. Ms. Henderson does a good job of providing smooth, easy writing, personable characters and a story that is realistic. Some of the stories have suspense features but they all have some romantic tension and conflict. I say “romantic” tension because these are clean stories with at least one character grounded with Biblical foundations and the other drawn in.

I was glad to see this novella available at a low price to get for my church Ladies’ Book Club. It is consistent with the easy, personable style although this one is sweet romance with emotional conflict and no suspense or danger other than medical issues dealing with cancer. All of our ladies enjoyed the book and are interested in ready more of the series. Although this novella was actually written last, it fits at the beginning of the series and Jennifer and Tom’s story continues in The Negotiator (O'Malley Book 1).

I picked this up on sale for my ladies' book club and we discussed it October 3, 2015.

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Book Review: A Most Inconvenient Marriage (Ozark Mountain Romance Book #1) by Regina Jennings

This is an easy reading, sweet, historical romance

A Most Inconvenient Marriage

(Ozark Mountain Romance Book #1)

by Regina Jennings

• File Size: 3539 KB
• Print Length: 337 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0764211404
• Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (November 25, 2014)
• ASIN: B00KDN89NO

Genre: Christian, Historical Romance

My Rating: 4.25

Book Description
Publication Date: November 25, 2014
Abigail Stuart Thought She was Jeremiah Calhoun's Widow.
But Jeremiah Calhoun Is Very Handsome, Very Alive, and Very Perplexed.
Most Inconvenient Indeed.
With few options of her own, nurse Abigail Stuart agrees to marry her patient, a gravely wounded soldier calling himself Jeremiah Calhoun. They arrange a quick ceremony before he dies, giving Abigail the rights to his Ozark farm and giving Jeremiah the peace of knowing someone will care for his ailing sister after he's gone--a practical solution for both of them.
After the war, Abigail fulfills her side of the bargain--until the real Jeremiah Calhoun shows up, injured but definitely alive, and wastes no time in challenging Abigail's story. Abigail is flummoxed. After months of claiming to be his widow, how can she explain that she's never seen this Jeremiah Calhoun before? How can she convince him that she isn't trying to steal his farm? And will she find a way to stay, even though this practical arrangement has turned into a most inconvenient marriage?

Review:
Abigail fled her home after being wrongfully accused by her step-father and mother. She ended up as a nurse in a Union prison hospital. She tends a dying soldier who asks her to marry him in exchange for taking care of his ailing sister and his farm. They are quickly married and, after his death, Abigail travels to Ozark as Mrs. Jeremiah Calhoun. She finds a warm welcome from her mother-in-law but disbelief and resentment from her bitter and demanding sister-in-law, Rachel. Abigail is delighted to find good horse stock and a farm that she can help restore and thrive. She also is determined to do her best to help Rachael improve her attitude even if there is no hope for full recovery.

All goes well until the real Jeremiah Calhoun returns home, injured but clearly alive. He immediately suspects that Abigail is trying to swindle them. Having Abigail claiming to be his wife is also inconvenient as he is determined to marry his long time childhood sweetheart, Laurel. Jeremiah wants Abigail gone but she won’t budge until she is reimbursed for her savings that were invested in breeding his mare. As hard as it is to admit, Jeremiah can use the help around the farm and soon discovers that Abigail can help him overcome his injured leg too.

There is fun conflict in Jeremiah’s antagonism and from his frustrated struggle to woo Laurel who has been spending time with the local doctor. There is added fun in the form of two mischieveous neighbor children. Rachel’s embittered character provides Abigail the opportunity to show faith, charity and love.

The plot moves well with the crossed romances, the neighborly friends, strifes and danger from bushwackers attacking and stealing horses around the community. I enjoyed the easy flow of the reading and the gradual realization of the sweet romance. I also liked the little nuggets of faith and positive attitude that are shared. I will be glad to read Ms. Jennings again and I recommend this to others who enjoy light, sweet, historical romance.

This is my last review for books read in 2014! I received this from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Review and Giveaway: Paper Roses (Texas Dreams Book #1) by Amanda Cabot

This is a charming, sweet Western Historical Romance with a little suspense and mystery.
Paper Roses (Texas Dreams Book #1): A Novel
by Amanda Cabot
384 pages
Publisher     Revell; Reprinted edition (January 1, 2009)
ISBN-10     080073324X
ISBN-13     978-0800733247
Genre: Inspirational Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publication Date: January 1, 2009
The future stretches out in front of Sarah Dobbs like the pure blue Texas sky. Leaving the past behind in Philadelphia, mail-order bride Sarah arrives in San Antonio ready to greet her groom, Austin Canfield, a man she has never met but whose letters have won her heart from afar. But there is one problem--he has died. And Sarah cannot go back East.

As Sarah tries to reconcile herself to a future that is drastically changed, Austin's brother, Clay, struggles with his own muddled plans. Though he dislikes working on the family ranch and longs for a different life, Clay is driven to avenge his brother's death. But something between them is growing and neither Clay nor Sarah is ready to admit it.

Book 1 of the Texas Dreams series, Paper Roses will sweep readers into the Hill Country with a tale of love and loss, closed doors and beautiful possibilities that will leave them wanting more.

Review:
Sarah is a beautiful young woman but flawed. A bad riding accident as a child left her with a limp and terrible fear of horses. She has been raised in society but now faces shame as a result of her father’s heavy financial losses and the resulting death of her parents. She has gathered all that she has left and is determined to make a new life for her younger sister and herself in the rugged lands outside of San Antonio, Texas. She has fallen in love with Austin Canfield, the man who wrote her such beautiful letters–her ‘paper roses.’

Sarah is met at the train station two hours later than expected but that is not the worst of the news. Clay, Austin’s brother, has to break the news that Austin is dead. He was murdered and Clay’s bitter heart is set on finding the killer and exacting revenge. In the past year Clay’s pregnant wife died and his father suffered a stroke. Clay is bitter against God and most anyone else who has a positive attitude.

Clay expects Sarah to turn tail and return to Philadelphia. He is surprised when she announces she is staying but she doesn’t want to be a burden. She sets her mind on finding some work to support herself and her sister. When other work falls through she proposes to the controlling Mayor that she open a school. The community agrees and she finds herself rotating class weekly from the German church to the French church. Unfortunately, her students rotate weekly too as the parents refuse to let their children mingle.

Through strategic maneuvering Sarah finally brings the children together. It is much harder to bring the parents together though. Tempers and prejudices are becoming more enhanced as thefts increase around town. Sarah continues to focus on others while Clay focuses on his revenge.

I liked the historic difficulties presented in the mixed community. Ms. Cabot uses Sarah’s persistent and nonjudging character to lead by example. She encourages the community to begin to see themselves as Americans with different backgrounds and traditions that can be blended to create new traditions.

I also enjoyed how this couple struggles and finally come together. Both have issues of unforgiveness that they have to overcome. The story shares more than just a romance as it addresses numerous small town issues. Matters of revenge and prejudice, and Godly lessons are handled gently. The writing is smooth and easy.

This was our ladies’ book club selection in May. The consensus was that we all enjoyed the easy flow, sweet romance and nice story.

This title was picked for our Ladies' Book Club choice.

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Book Review: Secretly Smitten Anthology

Four delightful stories that tie mystery and love together beautifully.
Secretly Smitten Anthology
Colleen Coble (Author, Contributor), Kristin Billerbeck (Contributor), Denise Hunter (Contributor), Diann Hunt (Contributor) 
 

• File Size: 939 KB
• Print Length: 383 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 140168713X
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson (January 8, 2013)
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.

Genre: Inspirational Romance
My Overall Rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Individual ratings listed with the stories.

Book Description
Publication Date: January 8, 2013

Summer, fall, winter, spring—Smitten, Vermont, is the place for love . . . and mystery!

There’s a secret in Grandma Rose’s attic—a forgotten set of dog tags belonging to her first love. But David Hutchins was killed in action and never returned to Smitten. How did the dog tags end up in the attic?

The mystery intrigues Rose’s three granddaughters—Tess, Clare, and Zoe—and they decide to investigate, though their mother, Anna, warns against meddling. But as the seasons turn and the mystery unravels, the three young women and their mother encounter some intriguing mystery men of their own. Has a sixty-year-old puzzle sparked something new for this close-knit family of women?

Join popular romance novelists—and real-life BFFs—Colleen Coble, Kristin Billerbeck, Diann Hunt, and Denise Hunter for four delightful intertwined tales of mystery and sweet intrigue.

Review:
Dog tags of a man who supposedly died in Korea are found in the attic. The dog tags belonged to David who was the first love and fiancé of Rose. Rose’s granddaughters, Tess, Clare and Zoe, decide to investigate even though their mother Anna warns against it. Each story tells a new love story while moving the investigation forward another step, exposing long hidden secrets and betrayal.

Love Between the Lines by Colleen Coble. Rating  4.25
Tess has a few extra pounds and doesn’t expect there will ever be a man who would choose her. She is attracted to Ryan, the owner of the local dairy, ice creamery. But Tess is nothing like Ryan’s first wife and sister-in-law who are beautiful fashion mavens. Unknown to Tess, Ryan is attracted to Tess too. She is down to earth, real and natural which he finds refreshing after his first wive’s compulsive perfectionism.

Ryan owns the home that used to belong to David’s family. Tess offers to help Ryan clean his attic which will allow her to search for clues about David but also brings Tess and Ryan time together. Ryan’s daughter, Sophia, is fond of Tess too. She loves how Tess, who owns the local book store, is willing to dress up and make voices when reading stories to the children.

I enjoy Ms. Coble’s clear, real-to-life characters, settings and plots. The romance grows slowly and sweetly, with the added warmth of a young child. The dialogue is very real and natural.

Make Me a Match by Kristin Billerbeck. Rating 4.25
Zoe is the younger, vibrant sister who loves helping the seniors in Smitten. She’s decided to sink everything she has into a new business: Cupid’s Arrow Matchmaking Services. Zoe believes the business fits in with Smitten’s efforts to become a tourist attraction as a romantic get away.

As Zoe prepares her new storefront for an opening singles event a handsome man walks into the ladder she is using. She doesn’t need trouble before she even starts but it seems trouble may have found her in the form of the new town manager, William.

William is a trouble shooting, rule-making and enforcing manager.  He’s been brought in to help get the town selected for a new rail station which would really help the town economy. William likes Zoe but he sees code violations in her building that make it unsafe. He wants to help Zoe but if he doesn’t take a hard stand he’ll be risking his own job.

The conflict between these two is fun as impulsive Zoe immediately takes a defensive stand in opposition to William’s concerns. There is good humor as the family keep trying to match-make the pair.  I enjoyed the faith based references of trust that the author slips into the story.

Knit One, Love Two by Diann Hunt. Rating 4.5
The girl’s mother, Anna, lost trust in men and love after their father left her and the girls behind to start a new family with another woman. Anna managed to help make ends meet with her knitting shop, The Sit ‘n Knit. She loves the colors and textures of the materials and loves helping other women in the community with their projects. She is reluctant to trust the interest of Michael, who is the handsome son of Emma, a customer who is suffering from cancer. Besides, Michael is a retired, career officer who he has been a loner for a long time and is struggling with an estranged son.

A skiing injury lands Michael cabin bound and Anna offers help. When Anna decides to raise a herd of sheep to supply wool for spinning Michael is there to help her.  Slowly a friendship edged with desire builds.

I enjoyed the vulnerability of these characters as they learn to release their fears and begin to trust. The warm, mature romance is very lovely. I also liked Anna’s firm faith and willingness to seek guidance from the Lord.

Love Blooms by Denise Hunter. Rating 4.5
Clare is the middle child and a lady with a green thumb. She is the one who keeps to routine; steady and practical.  She has recently lost her boyfriend who decided that she was just too predictable and ‘boring.’ It is a surprise when she hires a drifter to help at the nursery that she manages.

Ethan lost a buddy in war and has lived from town to town following where he feels God directs him to help. He was desperate for work when he arrived in Smitten and now is looking for God’s meaning in bringing him to this charming town. He is attracted to Clare but he doesn’t want to start something since his visit is only temporary.

Ethan and Clare both have fear, control and trust issues to overcome. It is wonderful to watch them shift their views so that they can come together. This story also does a great wrap up for the mystery and the healing for the betrayal that occurred in Rose’s past.  I had tears in my eyes by the time this ended.

The book concludes with some great Reading Group Guide questions that dig a little deeper into emotions and reactions. This would make a great group read as well as a lovely read for anyone who likes inspirational romance.

I received this anthology from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley for an honest review.

Book #Review and #Giveaway: An Angel by Her Side by Ruth Reid

This is a delightful, sweet story where two souls learn to trust God's plans with the tangible help of an angel.

An Angel by Her Side
by Ruth Reid

• File Size: 540 KB
• Print Length: 366 pages
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson (January 1, 2013)
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
• Language: English
• ASIN: B008GVYY8Y

Genre: Amish Romance
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0

Book Description

Publication Date: January 1, 2013 |
Series: A Heaven On Earth Novel

Katie has lived through tragedy and heartache. But with the angel Elias by her side, the best years of her life are just ahead.

A Heaven on Earth Novel, #3

When Katie Bender’s fiancé died in a tragic accident, so did her hope of finding love. Though heartbroken, Katie is also practical. In the years since the accident she has discovered her gift for teaching. But when a tornado destroys her small Amish settlement, including the schoolhouse, Katie doesn’t know how she will provide for herself.

Seth Stutzman arrived in Hope Falls days before the storm. And when he helps usher Katie and the children to safety, sparks fly. But Seth is only in town to help his brother, Amos, get back on his feet following the death of his wife. He can’t afford to have feelings for Katie.

Rebuilding the community is a huge task, and soon, Katie and Seth are working side by side. As they privately wrestle with their feelings for each other, another silent—and ultimate—battle for their hearts rages unseen.

Review:
Katie Bender has accepted that she would never be a wife and mother. She has found contentment working as the teacher (teetshah) at the one room Amish school in her community. The school is located next to the property of Amos Mast who has left the Amish community in anger and grief after the death of his wife. Amos blames Katie for creating discordance in his family over the learning difficulties of one of his young sons.

Seth Stutzman arrives at the community to help his brother-in-law, Amos, and gets caught in a tornado. He seeks shelter in the school cellar where the children and teacher have taken refuge. The storm destroys the school and many homes in the community.

The leaders meet to set priorities and begin to pool their resources to rebuild. While hoping the school will be rebuilt Katie helps take care of the children, first a little girl whose father is missing, and then Amos’ teenaged daughter who has run away because she feels banned from home.

Seth has talents as a builder but will not use them due to a prior accident he believes was caused by his difficulties reading and identifying numbers. Still, he is drawn to help with other tasks at the work sites. Several times he finds himself being assisted by an elderly man, Elias, who is always cheerful and encouraging.

When Amos suffers an injury, Seth convinces Katie to come to the house to take care of the toddler daughter and help with meals and chores.  Katie struggles to pray blessings on Amos while his anger continues to spew bitterness towards her.  Seth struggles with his feelings of not being good enough and being afraid to reveal his secrets even as he grows closer to Katie every day.

Ms. Reid has created beautiful, warm characters and developed a plot that shows growth through seeking God’s wisdom, offering grace and accepting forgiveness. The story has strength in the faith shared, gentleness in the love and protection offered and joy in the miracles guided by Elias.

I loved how Ms. Reid portrays the angel and demon as real and impacting the lives and decisions of those who will listen to their whispers, whether good or bad. (This reminded me of Frank Peretti’s This Present Darkness where I first read this concept.)

This worked well as a standalone although it is apparently the third book in a series. I would like to read the other books too. This is an easy, uplifting and delightful read that I recommend to those who like sweet romance in an Amish setting.

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

An example of Elias' ‘touch’:

Elias approached Katie. “God has not given you a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of  sound mind.” Elias hoped his words resonated with his charge. “Be prepared to give account for the hope that is within you. You will be used to encourage the weak.”  Location 464.

I received this to review for Thomas Nelson through NetGalley.

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The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on April 27, 2013.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review and Giveaway: Waiting for Morning by Margaret Brownley

This is a lovely story with wonderful historical tidbits and inspiring lessons!
Waiting for Morning (The Brides Of Last Chance Ranch Series)
by Margaret Brownley

• File Size: 708 KB
• Print Length: 350 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1595549706
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson (January 8, 2013)
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
• Language: English
• ASIN: B00AE9I0EA

Genre: Historical Romance, Inspirational
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: January 8, 2013
If Molly Hatfield's purple attire doesn't blind you, her dazzling smile will. She doesn't just sing to the cattle, she puts on a whole show. If only she wasn't so stubborn about her brother's care. Or so distrustful of a certain handsome doctor...

There is nothing Molly wouldn't do for her teenaged brother, Donny. Blaming herself for the accident that left him wheel-chair bound, Molly has dedicated her life to his care. But in 1896, gainful employment for a woman is hard to come by. So when Molly learns that an eccentric rancher in Cactus Patch, Arizona, is looking for an heiress--someone to take over management of the ranch in exchange for future ownership--she jumps at the chance to provide a real home for her brother.

If she proves to have a knack for ranching and agrees to remain single for life, the ranch can be hers. Neither stipulation worries Molly. She's resourceful and hardworking. And she gave up dreams of marriage long ago when she dedicated her life to her brother's well-being.

However, Molly didn't bank on meeting Dr. Caleb Fairbanks, the town's handsome and charismatic young doctor, whose backfiring automobile almost gets him killed when Molly thinks she's being shot at and fires back.

But it's how he is with her brother that really alarms her. Caleb sees past the wheelchair and genuinely likes Donny, but Molly fears he's putting unrealistic ideas into her brother's head. Falling in love with Caleb would threaten everything she's worked for, even her brother's future happiness. It'll take an act of congress to convince her otherwise--and maybe even a little help from above.

Other books in the Brides of Last Chance Ranch series include Dawn Comes Early and Gunpowder Tea (available October 2013).

Review:
Molly is a young woman who does what she has to do, even singing in a saloon, to take care of herself and her teen brother. Molly holds herself responsible for the accident that crippled Donny and she has determined that she will always be his family.  A fire takes almost all they have and Molly decides to go to Arizona territory to answer an ad to become an heiress of a cattle ranch. She has to prove to the demanding owner that she can handle the job and the terms will include an agreement not to marry. Molly has no problem with that as she has learned that men aren’t interested in courting a woman with a handicapped brother.  Besides, she saw the pain and heartbreak that tore her parents apart when Donny was injured. She doesn’t want to risk that pain again.

But Molly never figured on meeting a man like Doctor Caleb Fairbanks. Caleb is a progressive sort who rides Bertha, his motor buggy, and looks to the medical advances for means of helping his patients - two legged and four legged. Their first meeting is a bit hostile when she mistakes the car backfire for shooting and shoots back.  The second meeting isn’t much better when the backfire starts a stampede her way.

Caleb is dazzled by Molly’s bright beauty and has no problem seeing past Donny’s handicap to the smart boy he is. Although Molly doesn't trust his pushing, the Doc challenges Donny to stop thinking of himself as crippled and to become more independent.

I loved Caleb’s direct approach and enthusiasm. He saw injury in both Donny and Molly and set about finding a way to address the problems and seek improvement. I liked Molly’s complex character and even the stern and intractable ranch owner, Miss Walker, is a warm lovely person underneath her tough exterior. There are lessons of forgiveness and tolerance to be learned and shared, and even a blind colt can help show the hand of God at work.

The writing moves at a good pace with history, progress and God’s touch nicely woven together. Added to that is a good dose of fun humor making the package a very delightful read. I also loved learning that some of the old gospel hymns, like Swing Low, Sweet Chariot, were codes for the underground railroad groups! If you like stories with history and sweet romance I recommend this to you. I will keep Ms. Brownley in mind for future reading. I think I would enjoy reading one of her stories for my book club especially if it has wonderful reading questions like this one does.

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

Molly has created a persona to hide behind:

She feared her carefully constructed facade was in terrible danger of melting away like face paint in the sun.  Location 191

Molly learns important lessons:

Brodie said lessons could be learned from horses. Orbit taught her that God had a plan for everything–even a little blind horse and a wheelchair-bound youth. Location 3452.

I received this from Thomas Nelson for an honest review and with offer to host a giveaway.

This story is set in Arizona for my 2013 Where Are You Reading Challenge. This is a New Author for me.

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY FOR PRINT COPY FROM PUBLISHER - US ONLY.

USE 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 1, 2013.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on March 2, 2013.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review and Giveaway: An Amish Kitchen Anthology

This is a lovely collection of sweet romances served up with inspiration and yummy recipes too!
An Amish Kitchen Anthology/Collection
by Beth Wiseman (Author), Amy Clipston (Author), Kelly Long (Author)

• File Size: 666 KB
• Print Length: 337 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1401685676
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson (December 18, 2012)
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
• Language: English
• ASIN: B008GVZ1YU

Genre: Amish Inspirational
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: December 18, 2012

The Amish Kitchen is the Heart of the Home – and the Ideal Setting for Stories of Love and Hope.

Fall in Paradise, Pennsylvania always brings a brisk change in the weather. This time also provides unexpected visitors, new love, and renewed hope for three women.

Fern has a green thumb for healing herbs and flowers, but longs for love to bloom in her life. The next-door neighbor’s oldest son Abram comes running into Fern’s kitchen seeking help for his little sister. The crisis soon leads to a promise of romance—until an incident threatens to end their growing attraction.

Nearby, Hannah runs her parents’ bed and breakfast, Paradise Inn—but her life feels nothing like Paradise. She longs for a man of integrity to enter her life, but never expected him to knock on the front door looking for a room. Will she be able trust Stephen with her future once she discovers his mysterious past?

When a storm blows a tree onto Eve’s farmhouse, she has little choice but to temporarily move her family into her parents’ home. Outside of cooking together in the kitchen, Eve and her mother can’t agree on anything. But this may be just the recipe for hope in healing old wounds.

Three Amish stories—each celebrating love, family, and faith—all taking place in a tight-knit community where the kitchen truly is the heart of the home.

Review:
This collection consists of three lovely stories that could be read separately but tie together beautifully. The themes of the first two stories, faith and forgiveness, are extended and wrapped into the final with a remarkable flow. I would be pleased to read more from each of these talented authors.

A Taste of Faith by Kelly Long
Fern is a bit on the plump side but thinks there must be a man who would appreciate her special talents. She has been taught by her beloved grandmother how to grow and use herbs for healing. She admires her next-door neighbor’s quiet son, Abram, but he seems to be a resolute bachelor.

Abram has been left in charge of the farm and his younger siblings, four mischievous boys and a sweet little sister. Abram is soon visiting Fern’s house repeatedly for one child crisis and injury after another. He slowly begins to see the special healing and loving touch that Fern shares with others.  Just as Abram decides he wants to court Fern, she sees him at the home of a widow in the community. She jumps to the wrong conclusion and thinks he has been making fun of her.

The characters are warm and the story flows easily with love and caring. It was beautiful how Fern recognized that God likes ‘to garden our souls.’ While working together in the kitchen, her grandmother encourages her to have  ‘a taste of faith’ and trust for a relationship that is God’s plan for her.

A Spoonful of Love by Amy Clipston
Hannah wishes her mother would recognize her abilities as she takes over managing the Paradise Inn, the bed and breakfast her parents established in their Amish community. Her father has suffered a stroke and her mother needs to be there to take care of him. Hannah feels her mother still looks over her shoulder and tries to control the lives around her.

Stephen is an Amish man who has come into town looking for room and work. He is unable to find a job among the local business but starts to pitch in on odd jobs at the Inn. Hannah’s brother agrees to hire him as a handy man since he has been unable to get by to help with the chores as he is busy with his own new family. 

Hannah’s mother is alarmed to have a single man living in the B&B. Hannah recognizes that Stephen is hiding pain from his past as they slowly build a friendship and discover they have a lot in common. But will  Stephen’s past turn Hannah against him or can she convince him that ‘a spoonful of love’ and forgiveness can help him move on to a sweeter future?

Ms. Clipston shares a strong message of God’s forgiveness, community forgiveness and the need to forgive oneself. The story is rich in “Deutsche” words which I enjoyed particularly since I grew up near Pennsylvania Dutch communities.

A Recipe for Hope by Beth Wiseman
Eve’s home is damaged by a storm and may take several months to rebuild.  Eve, her husband and three sons move in with her parents.  Although she has warm memories of times cooking in the kitchen, Eve has always had a strained relationship with her mother, Rosemary. Now Rosemary is suffering from Parkinson’s disease and is reluctant to seek modern help, relying only on herbal remedies.

Eve’s father is quiet, easy going and accepts the actions of the teenage twins, one of whom is sneaking out at night to visit a local girl. Rosemary doesn’t agree with the modern technologies that are allowed in many Amish homes and particularly doesn’t agree with how Eve is raising her sons.  The women clash with Eve feeling she can do nothing to win her mother’s love.

A crisis arises between the twins putting the whole family on edge. Can the boy's relationship be restored and can Eve and Rosemary come to a better understanding of each other?

There are several messages flowing through this story. Mother and daughter clash over tradition and more modern thinking, while the twins discover that first love doesn’t always run smooth. I felt sorry for the young girl whose behavior led to trouble, confusion and sorrow and hurt for her as well as the boys. I loved the Recipe of Hope that is shared at the end of the story - it brought tears to my eyes.

There is a wonderful Reading Group Guide shared at the back and many delicious recipes that are an extra treat. If you enjoy the rich history and inspiration of Amish stories I encourage you to pick up this collection.

I received this title through NetGalley for an honest review and giveaway opportunity from Thomas Nelson.

This story is set in Pennsylvania for my 2013 Where Are You Reading Challenge.

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY FOR PRINT COPY FROM PUBLISHER - US ONLY.

USE ENTRY FORM HERE

For 3 Extra Bonus entries Visit one of the authors' links and tell me something you find of interest.
Kelly Long
Amy Clipston
Beth Wiseman
* This contest is open US Only.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on February 15, 2013.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on February 16, 2013.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review and Giveaway: Journey to Forgiveness by Laurean Brooks

This is a delightful, heart-warming read.

Journey to Forgiveness
by Laurean Brooks

• Paperback: 308 pages
• Publisher: White Rose Publishing (January 9, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1601543654
• ISBN-13: 978-1601543653

Genre: Inspirational Historical
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: January 9, 2009
When Jenny Hinson's abusive father deserts the family, the responsibility of the family's Tennessee farm falls to Jenny and her mother. Four years later, in 1938, boll weevils infest the cotton crop, plunging the Hinsons into dire financial straits and Jenny takes the train north to find work. Electricity has yet to reach rural Chicory Valley. But, not only is the young woman introduced to it in its tapped form in Chicago, but also encounters a few jolts along the way when she challenges the infuriating Austin Grant over a luggage mishap.

Sparks fly outside the Kankakee train station when Jenny discovers her missing vanity case under Austin's arm. She immediately labels him a thief. And after Austin coaxes money from her aunt's congregation, Jenny determines to find enough evidence to expose him and his nefarious deeds. Why did Austin pull money from the mission strong box and stuff a sizable roll into his pocket? Wasn't this just the proof Jenny needed? Then why was she reluctant to report the theft? And why did her heart race at every encounter with the notorious Austin?

Jenny's personal convictions would never allow a relationship where trust was blatantly missing. Can Jenny muster enough courage to ask Austin the tough questions that will ultimately make or break their relationship? Can she forgive her father's brutality? Find out as you follow Jenny's struggles in "Journey To Forgiveness."

Review:
Jenny’s abusive father left home taking along her teenage brother. She, her mom and younger siblings have struggled to keep the primative Tennessee farm going to support the needs of the family. When a crop failure puts them behind Jenny travels to Chicago to live with her Aunt and earn money to send home. At a train station along the way to the city she meets a debonair, handsome man who she thinks is stealing her vanity case! The man introduces himself as Austin Grant and teases her, making her angrier.

Jenny runs into Austin in Chicago and is astounded he isn’t in jail. When he shows up in church seeking funds for an alleged rebuilding project, everyone, including her Aunt, believes he is a good guy.  She is convinced she will find evidence that proves he is a con artist.

Jenny gets a good job as a secretary where she has to cope with her very particular and strict boss who is dictating a history of Chicago. Meanwhile Jenny has to fend off interest from the spoiled, rich young man who lives next door to her Aunt. During a vacation time she agrees to join a mission trip with others from the church arranged by Austin to help storm victims.

Austin is attracted to Jenny and does everything he can to charm her. Every time they are together she seems to overreact, be offended or is angry with him. He suspects she was hurt by someone in her past and he wants to find the truth to help her heal. Slowly Jenny falls for Austin’s charm and humor but she isn’t sure she can trust him. She saw him pocket some money from the mission strong box and she can’t understand why such a good man is a thief.

Austin is a lovable, charming character and Jenny is a sweet, impulsive young woman who jumps to conclusions. Their chemistry is warm and the misunderstandings humorous. In addition to enjoying the antics I loved the depth of history that is easily shared by Ms. Brooks through the comparison’s of country and city living and through the memories shared by the historian or others. I also loved the inspirational wisdom that permeates the story as part of the lives of the characters.  Jenny’s situation with her father provides the perfect situation to share a strong message how holding bitterness and being unforgiving hurts the one refusing to forgive more than it hurts the one who offended. I loved the story, the humor and the faith based plot. This is a delightful read and I look forward to reading more stories by Ms. Brooks.

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

An example of Jenny’s prayer:

Lord, once again I have blundered with my mouth. I have read the third chapter of James many times–those scriptures about controlling the tongue. It will take a miracle to tame mine. Please send one soon. Page 52.

Austin wants to protect Jenny but recognizes that isn’t his place:

It was out of his league. Only God had that power. Only He held the remedy. Austin would put it into the Almighty’s capable hands. Trust Him with it. Page 148.

I pulled this from my Won TBR.

Set in Chicago, IL for my 2013 Where Are You Reading Challenge?

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY FOR PERSONALLY AUTHORIZED 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 and Canada Only.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on February 15, 2013.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on February 16, 2013.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review and Giveaway: His Love Endures Forever by Beth Wiseman

I loved this engaging story!

His Love Endures Forever (A Land of Canaan Novel)

by Beth Wiseman

File Size: 692 KB
Print Length: 317 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1595548882
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (October 2, 2012)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
Language: English

Genre: Inspirational Romance

My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Book Description

Publication Date: October 2, 2012

An unplanned pregnancy. An absent father. Can love really endure all things?

Danielle Kent is anything but Amish. But as destiny would have it, she has fallen in love with an Amish man.

Now she’s 18, pregnant, and hopeful that the child’s Amish father—Matthew Lapp—will do the right thing and marry her. She knows Matthew plans to leave his Colorado settlement for a life in the Englisch world. But that plan never included a baby.

When Matthew walks away from her and their unborn child, she has nowhere to turn. Her unlikely friendship with Levi offers some comfort—yet they have so little in common. This wasn’t the plan she had for her life, and she has never felt so alone. She doesn’t want to be pregnant. Doesn’t want to be Amish. Doesn’t want to trust God.

And yet.

God has plans beyond what her mind can imagine . . . loving plans to show a lost young woman that His love never fails but endures forever.

“Wiseman is among the best at writing moving Amish fiction.” —Booklist review of The Wonder of His Love

Review:
Danielle Kent had a difficult childhood. Her father died when she was young and her mother beat her. Danielle ended up at age seventeen moving in with an older, and old-fashioned couple who live near, although are not part of, an Amish community. Her ‘guardians’ Martha and Arnold have treated Danielle as their own daughter. Although they dress conservatively they do have electricity, cell phones and use cars, unlike the Amish families. Martha attends the Amish Sunday services on a regular basis and takes Danielle along whenever she will go.

Danielle is comfortable with the Amish and has been dating Matthew, an Amish young man of her age from a neighboring community. Matthew’s family are not happy that he is dating an Englisch girl but he is in the period of “rumschpringe”, the ‘running-round time, when a teenager has not yet committed into the Amish faith. In fact, Matthew does not want to remain with his Amish family.  He wants to go away to college and he clearly doesn’t want to marry and start a family with Danielle even though their union has resulted in pregnancy.

Danielle is found weeping by her best friend, Levi, another Amish young man who has not yet been baptized into the community but whose faith is very strong. Levi has been trying to encourage Danielle to trust God.
Levi always planned to be baptized Amish and raise a family in the Amish faith. But Levi has dreams that lead him to propose to marry Danielle and raise the boppli (baby) as his own. Danielle initially rejects this arrangement but then agrees. Levi’s mother is horrified that her son might marry an Englisch girl and live outside the Amish community. She consults with Sarah, the Amish girl Levi has dated a few times, to find ways to convince Levi not to marry Danielle. Troubles and misunderstandings arise.

I particularly loved the character of Levi whose faith is so strong as he prays and tries to follow God’s calling. Danielle is an injured soul and although she does not plan to live in the Amish community, she is willing to remain nearby.  She is determined to raise her child in a loving environment.  It is interesting, and wonderful, to read how this couple overcomes obstacles and how matters unfold for them as they grow in their relationships.

The story is very well written in plot, character and themes. Ms. Wiseman deals with the prejudices and snobbery of the Amish against the Englisch as well as exploring deeper issues of forgiveness and trust. There is a revelation by Levi’s mother that opens her heart and changes her attitude. I was delighted with the story and plan to encourage my ladies’ book club to read this or another Wiseman title.

Word notes while reading: Sweet, warm, faith issues, prejudices, beautiful message!

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

Levi shares excitement in his faith with Danielle:

“Because when you feel the Holy Spirit, or when God answers a prayer, it’s an amazing feeling, and you know you’re part of something so much bigger than just yourself.”  Location 2075.

Levi’s Mother shares her faith with Danielle:

“He is the only way. That’s what I’m saying. If you’re feeling alone or longing for peace, He is the way.”  Location 2673.

I received this title from Thomas Nelson for an honest Review.

This story is set in Monte Vista, near the Sangre de Cristo mountain range in Colorado for my Where Are You Reading Challenge. I will also add it to my New Author Challenge list.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the 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 and Canada.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on December 14, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED on December 15, 2012.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review: Shards of Ashley by Karen Wiesner

This is a lovely story - once again Ms. Wiesner creates wounded characters who find redemption through love.

Shards of Ashley (Book 5 of Family Heirloom Series)
by Karen Weisner
Book 5 of the Family Heirlooms Series
Inspirational Contemporary Romance by Karen Wiesner
Available now from

Whiskey Creek Press
978-1-61160-017-9 (trade paperback); 
978-1-61160-016-2 (electronic)
Click here for a printable order form
The paperback may be available at a significant discount with this special order form
Paperback from Amazon.com
Download from Amazon.com
Download from BN.com

My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Five Family Heirloom: Learning trust
In order to reconcile her past, she must face the terrible truth she buried long ago...and, in doing so, she gambles with her heart and the salvation of her own soul.

Ashley Savage grew up in a troubled home with a competitive, pampered sister and an abusive, ridiculing mother who played at being a Christian when she needed to...and led Ashley to more addictions than one child could handle. As an adult, Ashley tells herself she's put the extreme fears of the past behind her, but she spends most of her time repairing the crumbling wall holding back the horrors she's not willing to face ever again. She's become a woman against the world.

The one man who has the annoying habit of getting through her defenses is Jay Samuels, a military chaplain and soon-to-be pastor. Much as Ashley wants to leave him behind like she believes she has the rest of her past, Jay is ambitious to a fault where she's concerned. He hears only what he wants to hear?and he doesn't want to hear that she doesn't love him as much as he loves her.

But even Jay doesn't realize the extent of all she's buried deep inside her own subconscious...and what keeps her from giving herself willingly to the God she knows is drawing her inexorably to Himself, to the one place she can't run, where she can no longer hide...

Review:
Ashley was abused by her mother and step-father. When they sought friendship in a church family, she knew them to be hypocrites. At the age of fourteen she escaped her household to find oblivion in drugs with an abusive boyfriend.

Ashley finally broke free and was given a chance to change her life. She was mentored by an interior designer who taught her how to dress and present herself as well as how to dress interiors. Ashley has buried her pain and insecurities and remade herself into a disciplined, tightly controlled success.  Ashley doesn’t see herself as worthy of love and holds herself apart from everyone. She thinks even God didn’t love her enough as a child to save her from the abuse she suffered so she learned to rely only on her own efforts.

Jay has cared for Ashley since they met as teens. He is the pastor’s son and once he returns from his military service he will become the pastor of the local church. Jay and Ashley have remained friends seeing each other whenever he is home but they have no contact for the months he is away. Jay wants that to change. In fact, he is ready for their relationship to become serious and permanent. He knows that Ashley had a difficult childhood and he knows of her past escape into drugs and sex. But he doesn’t know all of her painful past as Ashley has never told anyone.

Jay realizes that he loves Ashley and he determines that he will not let her push him away.  It may take work, especially since his time home is limited, but he wants to convince her that she is worthy of love and he will stand by her.

Bit by bit Ashley’s defenses begin to crumble when faced with Jay’s steadfast and unrelenting love. Jay and Ashley share thoughts through Journaling and it is through that medium that Jay is often able to plant seeds of faith that opens a dialogue between them. Ms. Wiesner shares some beautiful thoughts on the rewards that can come from trusting in God to see us through suffering and pain. 

Although she resists, it is clear that Ashley loves Jay. Their moments together are very sensual, even without complete intimacy. I really enjoy the depth of emotion that Ms. Wiesner gives her characters.  The situations are real to live and there is plenty of warmth that overcomes the sad suffering of the past. I am always reminded how much I enjoy this author when I read her books. There may be too much emotion for me to read these one after another, but they are a source of delight when I pick them up once every six weeks or so! I highly recommend this author especially if you are looking to read inspiring romance and stories of redemption from difficult circumstances. .

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

I never heard the second part of  this expression but I think it is spot on:

“Your family is very traditional. The man is the head of the household and all that.”
“Maybe so. But didn’t someone say, if the man’s the head then the woman’s the neck? She moves him in the direction he should go.”  Location 1181.

Part of Ashley' fear of trusting:

They’d made her want to trust them. They’d made her want to trust God. But trust implied giving up all the protections she’d erected for herself.   Location 1966.

I received this title from the author for an honest review.

Book Review and Giveaway: The Trouble with Cowboys by Denise Hunter

This is an enjoyable romance with several inspirational messages.

The Trouble with Cowboys
by Denise Hunter
File Size: 783 KB
Print Length: 302 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1595548033
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (October 2, 2012)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
Language: English
Also available at: Thomas Nelson CBD B&N
Genre:  Christian Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: October 2, 2012
Only one pair of boots—and the cowboy wearing them—can get Annie out of the mess she’s in.

Annie Wilkerson is Moose Creek’s premiere horse trainer and equine columnist for Montana Living. Money is tight as she tries to put her kid-sister through college and provide for her young nephew. When Annie’s column is cancelled, she’s given first shot at a new lovelorn column—and she can’t afford to turn it down. Only problem is . . . Annie’s never been in love.

Always resourceful, she reluctantly strikes a deal with the town’s smooth-talking ladies’ man Dylan Taylor: She’ll work with his ailing horse, Braveheart, if he’ll help her answer the reader letters.

Working closely with Dylan is harder than Annie imagined, and she quickly realizes she may have misjudged him. But her unwavering conviction that cowboys are nothing but trouble has kept her heart safe for years. And she can’t risk getting hurt now.

The more Annie tries to control things, the more they fall apart. Her feelings are spinning out of control, and her sister’s antics are making life increasingly more difficult. Annie knows she needs to turn the reins over to God, but surrender has never come easily.

When Dylan reveals his feelings for her, Annie doesn’t know what to trust—her head or her heart. The trouble with this cowboy is that he might just be exactly what she needs.

“. . . a story filled with romantic tension . . . Hunter’s well-developed characters and plot twists make for a delightful and inspirational journey.” —Publishers Weekly

Review: 
Annie has a lot of responsibility on her young shoulders. Her father, a cowboy, left when she was young and her mother had been through several more husbands who also left. Annie works two jobs to make ends meet for herself and her younger sister, Sierra, and Ryan, Sierra’s  young son. Annie is intent on putting Sierra through college and is frustrated that Sierra can’t hold a job long and isn’t as dedicated to college as Annie feels she should be. She understands that Sierra is still young at 20 but Annie feels she shouldn’t be out partying when she has a young son at home and needs to prepare for her future.  It is clear that Sierra is beginning to resent being “mothered” by Annie.

Annie is attracted to Dylan who is a handsome, flirty cowboy. But there is no way that she is going to get involved with a cowboy. Her mother’s history says that cowboys are trouble and they can’t be trusted. Instead Annie is dating a nice, stable banker, John, even though there may not be the zing with him that she feels with Dylan.

Dylan appears to be a flirt but he had a painful experience that has left him sour on commitment. He finds Annie attractive and more stable than a lot of women he knows. Yet he knows that she isn’t the type of woman to treat lightly. Dylan really needs Annie’s expertise as a  horse trainer to help with Braveheart, an older horse who is going blind.

Although reluctant, Annie agrees to work with the horse if Dylan will help her with her new column - advise to the lovelorn. She figures he has had plenty of experience to share in the love arena. They strike a bargain even though it is clear they won’t always agree on recommendations for the column. Annie also finds it hard to decide if her answers should be consistent with God’s advise or man’s less forgiving nature.

I enjoyed the relationship between these nice characters and their pull and resistance made for good conflict and nice sensual tension.  The situation with Sierra was definitely frustrating and created a major obstacle for Annie. I like how it worked out with a few surprises. 

Annie and Dylan are both Christians so it would seem that they might have come together sooner with a bit more openness and that was annoying ... but then there wouldn’t have been the story. There are nice messages on issues of being judgmental, relinquishing fear, trusting God and allowing Him control to accomplish the impossible. The Christian issues are handled well through life style examples rather than preachiness.

The writing has a nice easy flow and the romance is sweet with enough heat to make it interesting and enjoyable. If you like Christian and sweet romances you should enjoy this read.
  

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

Dylan's effect on Annie:

“...Have a seat. Warm enough? I can get a fire going.”
He already had–he just didn’t know it. And if she were smart, she’d stick to the porch. Location 683.

What Annie seeks: 

She wanted security and love. Commitment and chemistry. Was that too much to ask? Location 2001

I received this title through NetGalley for  Review for Thomas Nelson.

This story is set near Bozeman, Montana for my Where Are You Reading challenge. I will also add it to my ARC and New Author challenges.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for a PRINT COPY provided by the Publisher:

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 to US only.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on November 16, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED on November 17, 2012.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement. 

Book Review: Faithful to Laura (A Middlefield Family Novel) by Kathleen Fuller

This is an engaging story set in an Amish community that explores issues of life-style choices and forgiveness.

Faithful to Laura (A Middlefield Family Novel) 
by Kathleen Fuller 

• File Size: 699 KB
• Print Length: 303 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1595547762
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson (August 7, 2012)
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
• Language: English
• ASIN: B008JOPLJE

Genre: Inspirational, Amish

My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: August 7, 2012 |
Series: A Middlefield Family Novel

Laura’s Amish faith requires her to forgive, but she can only think of revenge.

Laura Stutzman leaves her Kentucky community for Middlefield, Ohio, with one purpose: to find Mark King, the man who pledged his love to her, then left. She can’t move on with her life until he explains why.

Sawyer Thompson wasn't born Amish, but has lived in their community for years. Now he must commit to the Amish church or return to the Yankee world. Having suffered loss at a young age, he understands Laura’s anger, but is determined to follow God’s will and forgive. As their friendship grows, Laura begins to let her guard down.

But new information surfaces about Sawyer’s past and threatens the couple’s budding relationship. Both Laura and Sawyer will need to release the anger in their hearts and forgive the people who’ve harmed them. As Laura struggles to trust God, can Sawyer remain faithful to Laura?

Review:
Laura Stutzman thought she had found the man who would be her husband and help mate in her family’s bakery. Instead the young man, Mark King, had deceived her, stolen her family’s life savings and even tried to kill her. He set a fire and glass that blew from a window has scarred her face. Those scars are healing but the scar to her soul and confidence has not healed. She moves to the Middlefield, Ohio Amish community seeking to find Mark and have revenge against him.

Sawyer Thompson is a young man who was adopted by an Amish family when he was 14. After the loss of his parents he suffered abuse in the foster care system. He loves his adoptive parents and is trying to decide if he is ready to leave the Yankee world behind and commit himself to the Amish lifestyle.

Laura takes a reception, clerical job at the woodcrafting store owned by Sawyer’s father. Sawyer sees the beauty behind her pain but she has built a wall to keep others out.

Sawyer’s extremely wealthy grandmother locates him and arrives to take him back to New York to become her heir. Sawyer is angry that she thinks she can walk in and that her money will lure him away from the parents who have taken him and sheltered him for the past six years.

Can Laura release her anger and find a way to forgive Mark? Can she open up to allow Sawyer’s interest or should she return home to her own parents?  Will Sawyer stay with the Amish community or will he be drawn away by his grandmother’s money?

I really enjoyed the warm story as it developed around Laura and Sawyer. Ms. Fuller created strong characters in the Amish people and in the ‘Yankee’ grandmother. I was a little less enthralled with a side drama of betrayal in another family that required confession and forgiveness. It is a situation that acknowledges that we are human and sinners - all needing grace.

The writing flows well with clear descriptions. It was particularly interesting to me to see how the author portrayed the grandmother’s reactions to the simpleness of the Amish community. Since I was raised in 'Pennsylvania Dutch' country near an Amish community, it was strange to think there are people who have no idea of the Amish culture.

The faith based messages are expressed through the life choices of the characters as well as sometimes being shared outright. Anyone who enjoys inspirational themes set in the Amish world and developed around 'real people' should enjoy this story.

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There are inner scars that are harder to treat than surface ones:

...the daily applications of Vitamin E oil were helping the scars fade. But there were deeper scars, invisible ones. No cosmetic treatments could heal a soul. Location 93.

I liked this message of sovereignty:

Once we accept that God is in control of our lives, then we can work on understanding his will. Location 1511.

Wise words on mercy:

“I don’t deserve it.”
Leona shook her head. “None of us do....  If we deserved it, it wouldn’t be mercy....” Location 1553.

Thank you to Ruthie at Thomas Nelson for providing this title through NetGalley.  Please watch for a Giveaway with ALL THREE of the Thomas Nelson titles I reviewed this month. The Giveaway will post tonight or Tuesday depending on when I can complete the post (as I am still preparing for our trip). :-)

This story was set in Ohio for my Where Are You Reading Challenge. I will also list this on my ARC and New Author lists.