Summer by Summer - Heather Burch

Book Description

A story about Summer and Bray, two college students trying to find their identities, overcoming differences, and realizing they aren’t so different after all.

A new contemporary romance YA novel from Heather Burch, perfect for summer reading.

When Summer took a job as a nanny for a couple vacationing in Belize, she imagined it would be a fresh start before starting college in the fall. And while she adores her charge, Josh, she can't say the same for her employers' oldest son, Bray. He's cocky, inconsiderate, and makes her feel she's a chore he has to put up with. In short, he's everything she dislikes in a guy.

Bray had a plan for the summer: party, hang out with friends, and forget all the responsibilities waiting for him back home. But every time he's forced to be around Summer, her dour, serious mood sets him off. Not to mention she has a habit of picking up on what he already knows is wrong with him.

Then the two find themselves on a dive trip gone wrong, stranded on a remote island. As they focus on survival, their differences melt away, and they find being together may be what both needed all along.

My Thoughts:

A long time ago in a previous life (ok, it was actually 20 years ago), I was a Nanny for 2 different families.  I am easily drawn to books that have a Nanny in them, or feature them.  This book was no different; my initial draw towards the story was due to the Nanny aspect.

But then I started reading it...and could not put it down (I know, I've said that about a few books lately, but I'm being more selective since I'm short on time, which in turn means I am only reading outstanding novels!).  There's adventure, romance, mystery; you name it, this novel has it!  I would highly recommend this for a quick summer read, for those looking for entertainment and fluff reading!

**I received this book in exchange of my honest review**

About the Author

Heather Burch, the author of the popular Halflings series, spent the last seven years in Southern Florida but recently returned to her hometown in the Ozark Mountains. Her books have garnered praise from USA Today, Romantic Times, and Booklist magazine. When not working on her latest novel, she can be found hiking in the hills or planning a trip to the beach with her husband, John, who is her hero in every way.

Murder Simply Brewed - Vanetta Chapman

About the book (Provided by Publisher):  

When the coffee shop manager is murdered in Middlebury’s Amish Artisan Village, two women from different walks of life must join together to solve the mystery. Spring has arrived in Middlebury, Indiana, and Amber Wright is optimistic about the growing profit from her collection of Amish shops---until she receives a call that Ethan Gray is dead. Hurrying over to A Simple Blend, she finds a solitary hole in the front window and the store manager lying next to the espresso machine, dead from an apparent heart attack. All the money is still in his register. When Amber hires a young Amish woman, Hannah Troyer, to take over the shop’s duties, the two women become fast friends---as well as amateur sleuths. The police believe Gray’s death is a by-product of vandalism, but Amber and Hannah aren't convinced. Clues that don't add up, a neighbor who is pulled into the midst of the investigation, a town with secrets to hide, and a blossoming romance---all will combine to push Amber and Hannah into unfamiliar roles in order to reveal answers to the mysteries around them.

My thoughts:  

An Amish mystery set in a location not far from where I live?  Yes please!  It seems, that still today, the Amish Christian Fiction genre is exploding on the bookshelves.  One would think that after a few good years it would start to slow down.  But when there's a demand for it, the author's will keep writing it!  :)  

It's hard to find an Amish book that isn't the same as the others...boy/girl relationship, one of them deciding to leave during their Rumspringa, shunning, and coming home full circle. Now don't get me wrong, I love the Amish, they are prevalent in the area where I live. But I can tend to get a little bored reviewing the same thing over and over again.  But that was so not the case with Chapman's latest novel!  Any time you add a little mystery in the twist you are bound to add plenty of excitement for me!

I highly recommend this to any book lovers out there that are like me...looking for a fresh new look at the Amish Christian Fiction genre!  Take a chance on this book, you won't be disappointed! 

**I received this book in exchange for my honest review.**

Riley Mae and the Ready Eddy Rapids (Faithgirlz! / The Good News Shoes) - Jill Osborne

 

Genre:  Books; Children Fiction
Publication Date:  Jan. 28, 2014
Publisher:  Zonderkidz

Series:  Faithgirlz! / The Good News Shoes; book 2

 

 

About the book:

If you're gonna run for your life, you gotta wear the right shoes. Life is rapidly changing for pre-teen shoe spokesperson Riley Mae. After the last photo shoot and trek up the Half-Dome in Yosemite, Riley Mae and her Swiftriver friends find themselves in Northwest Montana, the perfect backdrop for a river sandal campaign. The first problem is a plane malfunction. Then the rigorous raft training for the 'Ready Eddy' river sandal campaign brings more bumps and bruises. And given that she is in Montana for a shoe campaign instead of back home with her friends, Riley thinks life can't get much worse. But then she meets Sunday, a 10 year-old boy from Kenya, who wrestles fish, battles bears, and tackles leukemia. And Riley soon learns that life is as unpredictable as the raging waters, which, if she is not careful, will sweep her away and into the hands of the enemy---who is even closer than she thinks.

Our thoughts:

Riley Mae is back, and on another exciting adventure!  As with the first book in this series, this is another great choice for your 8-12 year old daughter!     These are just the right size for your mid reader, not too many pages or words to discourage them, but just enough to help them feel like they are flying through a chapter book like their mom!  We give this book 5 stars and highly recommend it!

**I received this book in exchange for my honest review**

Riley Mae and the Rock Shocker Trek - Jill Osborne

Genre:  Books; Children Fiction
Publication Date:  Jan. 28, 2014
Publisher:  Zonderkidz
Series:  Faithgirlz! / The Good News Shoes; book 1

 

 

About the book:

 

If you’re gonna run for your life, you gotta wear the right shoes. Riley Mae Hart loves sports and action---so when the Swiftriver Shoe Company offers her a contract to be the spokesperson for their new outdoor sport collection, she jumps at the chance. Soon she’s appearing in commercials and magazine ads, and every girl in town wants to wear Riley Mae shoes. Well, except for Riley. Because walking in those shoes means missing out on softball season, making her best friend TJ mad, and embarrassing her new friend, Rusty. It also means sneaking around, hiding, and keeping secrets---because suddenly something isn’t quite right at Swiftriver. But a contract’s a contract, so Riley laces up her “Rock Shocker” hiking boots for a climb up Half-Dome in Yosemite. Will they be the right shoes to get her back on solid ground?

   Our thoughts:

 

I love finding a Christian fiction book that will keep the attention of our 9 year old twins! We got them each their own copy of this book, because who has the time to share?  They are each about half-way through, and say they love it! Interesting, exciting, a few strange names, and attention grabbing are just some of the words they use to describe this new series!  We give this book 5 stars!

**I received this book in exchange for my honest review**

Aquifer - Jonathan Friesen

• Publisher: Blink (August 6, 2013)

About the book:

Only He Can Bring What They Need to Survive. In the year 2250, water is scarce, and those who control it control everything. Sixteen-year-old Luca has struggled with this truth, and what it means, his entire life. As the son of the Deliverer, he will one day have to descend to the underground Aquifer each year and negotiate with the reportedly ratlike miners who harvest the world's fresh water. But he has learned the true control rests with the Council aboveground, a group that has people following without hesitation, and which has forbidden all emotion and art in the name of keeping the peace. And this Council has broken his father's spirit, while also forcing Luca to hide every feeling that rules his heart. But when Luca's father goes missing, everything shifts. Luca is forced underground, and discovers secrets, lies, and mysteries that cause him to reevaluate who he is and the world he serves. Together with his friends and a very alluring girl, Luca seeks to free his people and the Rats from the Council's control. But Luca's mission is not without struggle and loss, as his desire to uncover the truth could have greater consequences than he ever imagined.

My thoughts:

3 Stars

The dystopian genre seems to be all the rage, and this book follows right along with it!  While certain aspects may not be up to par (writing details/structure are somewhat lacking), if you're looking for a fast read in this genre, you'll want to make sure to take the time to check out this book!

Interested in purchasing the book?  Click here  to be directed to Amazon!

**I received this book from Booksneeze in exchange for my honest review**

NIV Worship Together Bible

About:

Worshiping God is one of the believer's highest callings. Music and song have been a timeless way to glorify God throughout history. Scripture itself is full of musical and poetic praises dedicated to the Lord. Using a unique combination of songs and reflections, the NIV Worship Together Bible blends modern-day worship and culture with the beloved Word of God. This Bible helps you embrace God as your loving Father and shows you how to exalt him through song and reflection. The musical inspiration in this Bible will remind you of the importance of constantly striving to be Christlike. As Pastor Jack Hayford, the author of the song 'Majesty,' once put it: 'Worship changes the worshiper into the image of the One worshiped.' Features:* The complete text of the world's most popular modern-English Bible, the NIV* Lyrics to the top 50 worship songs * Song notes and reflections from the songwriters* Simple chord charts for the Top 20 worship songs* Essay that explores the purpose and history of worship music * Foreword by Matt Maher* Index to organize songs by scriptural reference.

My Thoughts:

I thoroughly enjoyed reviewing this Bible!  I love listening to Worship music, and love the connection that is felt to/with God when fully engaged with this type of music.  The NIV Worship Bible has a fresh new look and concept with it (lyrics included to the top 50 worsihp songs) that I would definitely suggest this book to someone that enjoys listening to and worshiping through song.  I give this Bible 5 stars, and think I might just order a few to give away as gifts!

**I was given this item in exchange for my honest opinion**

Afloat - Erin Healy

About Afloat from the publisher:

Who will you trust when dark waters rise?

Eagle's Talon is an architectural marvel-shining residential units afloat in a protected cove of the gorgeous Rondeau River. The project is nearly complete, partially occupied, and ready to make investors rich when a sinkhole gives way. Then torrential rains and a flood leave a ragged collection of builders, investors, and residents stranded in one floating building, cut off from the rest of the world.

They're bitterly divided over what to do next.

Architect Vance Nolan insists they should sit tight and wait for rescue. Developer Tony Dean wants to strike out into the darkness. And single mom Danielle Clement, desperate to protect her young son, Simeon, struggles to hold their motley band together.

Power failure, a pall of unnatural daytime darkness, explosions in the distance, then a murder ratchet tensions to a boiling point. But Danielle's young son, Simeon, has spotted something strange underwater-beautiful, shifting lights in the dark water below.

In this watery world where everyone's secrets will eventually come to light, salvation may mean more than just getting out alive.

Another stunning exploration of the human spirit and supernatural possibilities from best-selling author Erin Healy.

My thoughts...

The beginning of the book had a slow start for me, and it seemed to jump all over the place.  At times it was a bit confusing, trying to keep up with which character that section was about, and what exactly was going on.

But true to Healy form, the story definitely picked up the pace and started to take off.  Healy eventually had good character development, and vivid imagery throughout the chapters.  I soon found myself curiously awaiting to find out what was happening with Danielle and her son, and which character she would form a relationship with.

While this was not my favorite of Healy's, it ended up being one of my top 2.  I give this book 3 stars, which earns it an "Above Average" rating.

About the author...

Erin Healy is the best-selling co-author of "Burn" and "Kiss" (with Ted Dekker) and an award-winning editor for numerous best-selling authors. She has received wide acclaim for her novels "Never Let You Go", "The Baker's Wife", "House of Mercy", and "Afloat". She and her family live in Colorado. Erin can be contacted through her website ErinHealy.com or through Facebook at erinhealybooks.



Purchase a copy here!

Book Trailer...


**I received this book in exchange for my honest review**

House of Mercy - Erin Healy

 

 About the book...

When Beth's world falls apart, can she ever be whole again?

Beth has a gift of healing--which is why she wants to become a vet and help her family run their fifth-generation cattle ranch.  Her father's dream of helping men in trouble and giving them a second chance is her dream too.  But it only takes one foolish decision to destroy it all.

 Beth scrambles to redeem her mistake, pleading with God for help, even as a mystery complicates her life.  The repercussions grow more unbearable--a lawsuit, a death, a divided family, and the looming loss of everything she cares about.  Beth's only hope is to find the grandfather she never knew and beg for his help.  Confused, grieving, and determined to make amends, she embarks on a horseback journey across the mountains, guided by a wild, unpredictable wolf who may or may not be real.

Set in the stunningly rugged terrain of Southern Colorado, House of Mercy follows Beth through the valley of the shadow of death into the unfathomable miracles of mercy.

My thoughts...

Let me start out by saying, I love Erin Healy!  My book club did a Skype session with her last fall, and gleaned a ton of information from her about her book, The Baker's Wife, and she was even able to tell us a little bit about House of Mercy!   She is such a great author, one who gets the wheels turning in your brain, even if it has been a while since it's last excursion! 

Needless to say, I have been anticipating the release of HOM for some time.  I pre-ordered it on Amazon, but wasn't sure if I would be able to wait for it's August release date.  So...I requested it from Booksneeze, whom I frequently do book reviews for, and received it much earlier!  Woohoo!!  Are you catching my excitement?  I had even started another book I was to do a review on, but put that one on hold so I could read Healy's latest release instead!

In case you're not familiar with any of her books, in my opinion, they tend to have a bit of mystery and a supernatural flair to them.  But not supernatural in the freaky/scarey sort of way!  Although there were definitely some suspenseful, edge of your seat chapters throughout this book!

The main character, Beth, has a long and hard road she must travel throughout the story.  Talk about your life taking a detour you were not expecting!  I was quickly drawn in by her, and felt very empathetic to what she was going through.  There were parts of her story that I would have liked to have seen expanded, but as I have learned, Erin likes to leave some of that for the reader to imagine or to think on for themselves.  Which does not always fit with my kind of thinking...I'm the person who refuses to leave a blank on my sermon notes sheet - I will figure out what is to go there, even if it means missing the rest of the service!  

Although Beth's mom has had a hard road to travel herself, I found it difficult to relate to her, she definitely did not win any points with me!  And don't even get me started on Levi!

As already mentioned, I thoroughly enjoyed reading House of Mercy, and enthusiastically, hands down, give this book 5 Stars.  If I could, I would give Erin Healy 5 Stars as well!  She is such a joy to speak with, and correspond with via e-mails.  One of the nicest authors I have had contact with.  

My biggest dilemma?  Waiting to hear if there will be a book 2 (for sure), and finding out when it will be released!  I have several questions I need answered from HOM, and I want to see how the author answers them!

**I was given this book by Booksneeze in exchange for my honest review**

the stars shine bright - Sibella Giorello

About the book...

After the FBI suspends her for bending it's rules, Special Agent Raleigh Harmon is looking for a chance to redeem her career and re-start her life.  Sent undercover to a thoroughbred horse track, Raleigh takes on a double life to find out who's fixing the races.  But when horses start dying and then her own life is threatened, Raleigh realizes something bigger-and more sinister- is ruining Emerald Meadows.

She's never felt more alone.

Her one contact with the FBI is Special Agent Jack Stephanson, a guy who seems to jump from antagonistic to genuine friend depending on the time of day.  And she can't turn to her family for support.  They're off-limits while she's undercover, and her mother isn't speaking to her anyway, having been confined to a mental hospital following a psychotic breakdown.  Adding insult to her isolation, Raleigh's fiance wants them to begin their life together-now-precisely when she's been ordered not to be herself.

With just days left before the season ends, Raleigh races to stop the killing and find out who's behind the track's trouble, all the while trying to determine if Jack is friend or foe, and whether marrying her fiance will make things better-or worse.

Raleigh is walking through the darkest night she's faced, searching for a place where the stars shine bright.

My thoughts...

Oh how I've missed FBI Special Agent Raleigh Harmon!  I loved reading about her Alaska Cruise in the mountains bow down , and was looking forward to her next adventure!  And, really, Jack is back in the picture!  If you have read any of the books in the Raleigh Harmon series, you are probably wondering just as I was...what is going to happen with these two?  My lips are sealed, you will have to read this book yourself to find out!

Giorello is an excellent author, one whose books I thoroughly enjoy!  You know how some series, whether books or movies, tend to level off or even decline in quality as the series continues?  Often times the first or second book is all you will really need to read, you won't even want to bother or waste your time with the others.  Guess what?  So not the case with this series!  Personally, I think they just keep getting better!  If you like FBI/romance/adventure type books, then this book is for you!

I give this book 5 stars, and even if it's the first book in the series you read, you're gong to love it!

**I was given this book by the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion**

Spirit Fighter - Jerel Law

Book Description...

Percy Jackson, move over! Jonah Stone is here!

What if Nephilim—the children of angels and men—still walked the earth? And their very presence put the entire world in danger? In Spirit Fighter, Jonah and Eliza Stone learn that their mother is a Nephilim and that they have special powers as quarter-angels. When their mom is kidnapped by fallen angels, they must use those powers to save her. Along the way, they discover that there is a very real and dangerous war going on between good and evil and that God has a big part for them to play in that war.

Parents today are looking for fiction that makes Christianity and the Bible exciting for their kids. This series is the Christian answer to Percy Jackson and the Olympians, The Kane Chronicles, The Secret Series and other middle-grade series packed with adventure, action, and supernatural fights. Son of Angels, Jonah Stone will be the first series in the market to explore this topic from a biblical perspective with content that is appropriate and exciting for middle-grade readers.

My thoughts...

What an awesome read!  I started out reading this book with my 11 year old son, but it was hard to find a time that we could read together since he is still in school.  I decided to finish the book without him, and once school is out, we will pick right up where we left off.  The first few chapters we read together though were great, he enjoyed them as much as I did!  He is an avid reader, and loved reading the books that were mentioned above, but we were both excited to see what this series, with a Christian background to it, had to offer.

Now, I have to admit, I do not know my Bible inside out like I should.  I loved when we came across a verse from Genesis in the first few chapters of the Spirit Fighter, leading us to the part of the Bible where the Nephilim are referred to.  I know we have both read that part of the Bible before, but had not fully understood or even remembered the Nephilim being there. 

Scripture is placed sporadically throughout the book, giving reference to and backing up parts of the story that refer to putting on the armor of God, the shield of faith, and so much more!  Jonah and Eliza (his sister), use scripture throughout their battles, helping to build their faith and stand strong in their beliefs.  I loved how this was a strong reminder to kids now a days to cloth themselves in what is right and true.

I LOVED this book!  I would give it more stars if I could, but since I can't, I will give it 5!  If your looking for a good read, something to share with your tween or teen, I highly suggest this book!

 **I received this book free from the publisher, and was not required to write a positive review."

Eyes of Justice - Lis Wiehl with April Henry

 

Back cover info...

When one of the Triple Threat is Murdered, all eyes turn to justice.

Cassidy, Allison, and Nicole fight for justice everyday -- Cassidy as a crime reporter, Nicole as an FBI agent, and Allison as a federal prosecutor.  Together they're a Triple Threat to be reckoned with.  A force that, together, has solved the toughest mysteries.

Until a ruthless killer finds a way to isolate and murder one of the three.

When the authorities keep the survivors at arm's length in the investigation, the women's desire for justice goes into overdrive.  They find an unexpected ally in a quirky private investigator named Ophelia whose unorthodox methods seem to offer a possible breakthrough in the case. 

"Yet just as the police appear to have the killer in custody and justice within sight, the murderer strikes again.  Not knowing whom to trust, the team must engage in a deadly game of cat-and-mouse where nothing can be taken at face value...and nothing will ever be the same.

My thoughts...

Wow!  What a fast paced book!  Eyes of Justice is book 4 of the Triple Threat series, but don't worry, if you haven't read the first 3 you will still enjoy reading this one!

Mysteries abound in this story, and the authors constantly kept me guessing.  Not once throughout the book did I think I knew who the murderer was, there was one main suspect, but the evidence just wasn't there to back up the suspicions (never fear, I'm not giving away any of the story).

Nicole, Cassidy, and Allison have such a great relationship among them.  They are 3 strong women, each with their own opinions and convictions.  They are able to work together, hold true to their beliefs, and never compromise in their jobs.  They knew each other back in high school, but did not become friends until their 10 year high school reunion! 

The only downside to Eyes of Justice...I felt that there were some loose ends that had not been completed.  I am hoping there is a 5th book in the series, I would love to have some questions answered!  I did feel that the very end of the book, between the last few chapters, was rushed, that is where most of the unanswered questions were left.

If your looking for a mystery, this is a 5 star book you'll want to make sure to read!

**I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.**

Need You Now - Beth Wiseman

About the book...

When big-city life threatens the safety of one of their children, Brad and Darlene Henderson move with their three teenagers from Houston to the tiny town of Round Top, Texas.

Adjusting to small-town life is difficult for the kids, especially fifteen-year-old Grace who is coping in a dangerous way.

Married life hasn't always been bliss, but their strong faith has carried Brad and Darlene through the difficult times. When Darlene takes a job outside the home for the first time in their marriage, the domestic tension rises.

While working with special needs children at her new job, the widowed father of one of the students starts paying more attention to Darlene than is appropriate. Problem is, she feels like someone is listening to her for the first time in a long time.

If Darlene ever needed God . . . it's now.

My thoughts...

This wasn't a book I was supposed to be reviewing.  There was a delay in the original book I had requested, so I was able to choose one more while waiting for the first to arrive.

With that said, let me say this:  I loved this book!  I downloaded it to my Kindle and was able to finish it in a matter of days!  Beth Wiseman is a talented writer, and what an amazing story this was!

From the beginning, it seems that Darlene has it all...the perfect family (including her husband and 3 children), the perfect life, and the perfect job.  We quickly learn how fast things can become unraveled!

The most intriguing storyline to me was that of the friendship between Darlene and Layla.  Everyone longs to have that special friend, someone you can be honest with and who will love you regardless.  It was neat to watch their relationship develop, go through many ups and downs, and finally settle into what it should be.

I cannot stress how much I enjoyed this book!  I wish I would have had a hard copy so I could pass it on to others...kind of a pay it forward book.  There is so much one can learn through this story, and I highly suggest you run out and grab a copy for yourself!

By the way, in case you're wondering, I give this book 5 Stars! 

 **I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.**

Beyond Molasses Creek - Nicole Seitz

 

Back Cover...

Having traveled to the ends of the earth as a flight attendant, Ally Green has finally returned to the Lowcountry to bury her father as well as the past.  But Vesey Washington is still living across the creek, and theirs is a complicated relationship-he was once her best friend...and also part of the reason she's stayed away so long.  When Ally discovers a message her father left behind asking her to quit running, it seems her past isn't through with her yet.

As Ally's wandering spirit wrestles with a deep longing to flee again, a young woman on the other side of the world escapes her life of slavery in the rock quarries of Nepal.  A mysterious sketchbook leads Sunila Kunair to believe there's more to her story than she's ever been told, and she's determined to follow the truth wherever it leads her.

My take...

Have you ever read the back of a book, started right in with the first chapter, then several chapters in realize that you made a huge misconception about the book?  That was my case with this one.  For some reason, I got in my head that Ally was a young woman, between the age of 30-40.  Come to find out, she is 60 years old and not what I envisioned.  Now I don't know about you, but once I have something in my head, it's hard to replace it with the correct information!

That said, this was an OK read for me, not stellar, but it was good.  This was the first book I have read by this author, and I would definitely read any of her other ones I came across.  

I give this book 4 stars.

**I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.**

Heart of Ice - Lis Wiehl with April Henry

From the back of the book:

"At first glance, the crimes appear random.  Arson.  Theft.  Fraud.  Murder.  But these are more than random crimes.  They"re moves in an increasingly deadly game.  And the one element they have in common:  a woman who is gorgeous, clever...and lethal.

Elizabeth Avery has a winsome smile and flawless figure, but underneath is a heart of ice.  She's a master manipulator, convincing strangers to do the unthinkable.  And she orchestrates it all without getting too close.  Until now.

When Elizabeth ruthlessly disposes of an inquisitive young reporter, her crime catches the attention of Federal Prosecutor Allison Pierce, FBI Special Agent Nicole Hedges, and crime reporter Cassidy Shaw.  They know they're dealing with a cold-blooded murderer who could strike at any time.  What they don't know is that they're already on a first-name basis with the killer.

And one of them may be next on her list."

My thoughts...

If your looking for a great crime novel, than this book could be for you!   

Heart of Ice is A Triple Threat Novel, with 2 other books that are part of the series.  But don't worry, if you haven't read the other ones, you won't be too far out of the loop to read this on it's own!

Wiehl and Henry do a great job of writing this suspenseful novel that will keep you sitting on the edge of your seat...until the next one comes out in April of 2012 (Eyes of Justice).

I give this book 4 stars!

**I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.**

Cliques, Hicks, and Ugly Sticks - KD McCrite

 

"A clique of mean girls, a grandma -- yes, you heard it -- a grandma stuck in a love triangle, a church pageant run by a dictator, and a mom who's acting very mysterious -- it all sounds like a disaster, but it's just another day in the super funny life of April Grace Reilly."

My thoughts...

Geared toward young adults (classified as Juvenile Fiction/Religious/Christian/Humorous), I wasn't sure what type of a read this would be for me, but I decided to review it none the less!

While the beginning was a slow start for me, I did manage my way through after taking breaks to read more age appropriate material for myself!  April Grace is a young lady in 6th grade, so at times it was a tad hard to relate to her, after all, my middle school days are long past! 

The author does a great job of writing through the eyes of April, and if I were a young adult, this would be a book I would enjoy reading!  So if you are looking for a Christmas gift for your teen girl, head to your local Book Store to make your purchase!

I am going to give this book two different ratings:

3 stars for the adult reader, and 4 stars for the juvenile reader (ranking it 4 stars overall since it is a juvenile book)

**I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.**

An Amish Wedding - Wiseman, Fuller, and Long

 

 From the Authors...

"A Perfect Plan" by Beth Wiseman

Priscilla King has been planning to marry Chester Lapp since she was sixteen years old, and when Chester proposes on Priscilla's nineteenth birthday, wedding plans begin immediately. What wasn't planned was all the problems the couple encounters as their big day approaches. A house disaster, a ruined wedding dress, and a sick attendant all make the couple wonder if  God's sending them signs to call things off.

"The Perfect Match" by Kathleen Fuller 
Naomi Fisher has had great success at matchmaking her family members and friends. Now with her sister's wedding right around the corner, Naomi wonders why she's able to find husbands for her friends and family, but not one for herself.

"The Perfect Secret" by Kelly Long
Rose Bender has recently become engaged to handsome but somber Luke Raber. She agrees out of a sense of duty and a willingness to settle for solid friendship as a basis for the engagement. But as she watches her friend's excitement over her soon-to-be wedding, Rose wonders if there shouldn't be more to her relationship with Luke. She begins to examine Luke and his life more closely and is amazed when she stumbles upon an exciting, secret side of him that engages her mind and heart.

My thoughts...

I have been reading quite a bit of Amish Christian Fiction lately and wasn't sure if I would enjoy yet another from the same category, but I thought I would give it a try.

I thoroughly enjoyed these 3 short stories!  The author's are very similar in their writing styles, and at times I found myself forgetting that they were written by 3 different ladies. Sometimes, it can be a bit choppy or rough when you have multiple author's writing and trying to connect different stories together, but that wasn't the case here!

I loved how all 3 stories were connected, the characters and story lines you grew to love in the 1st story were continued throughout the rest of the book.  The couples were entwined with each other, and even in the end you were learning something new about the 1st couple!

I highly suggest reading this even if you are getting burnt out on Amish Fiction!  After all, everyone loves a wedding, or 2, or 3!!

I give this book 5 Stars!

**I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.**

The Christmas Note - Donna VanLiere

 

From the author...

Gretchen Daniels has recently moved into an apartment with her two children to be closer to her mother, Miriam. She and her children are building a life together in a new community when a mysterious young woman, Melissa McCreary, moves into the apartment next to them. She has few possessions, little personality, and keeps to herself. One day, a local landlord who is looking for Melissa knocks on Gretchen’s door for assistance. Melissa’s mother has died and in the coming weeks the landlord needs Melissa to empty her mother’s apartment. Gretchen reaches out and offers to help, but the apartment is a gut wrenching shamble of a home. There is little worth saving except for a few photos and a note that is discovered on the crate beside the bed. It is unfinished but in the two scribbled lines, Melissa discovers she has a brother and a sister that she never knew about. Even more shocking, she begins to uncover family secrets that show her who she really is. Can two very different women embark on a journey that explores a long-buried need for forgiveness, hope, and redemption? 

My thoughts...

This book intrigued me from the very beginning.  After reading the back cover, and finding out this author also wrote "The Christmas Shoes", I knew it was one I had to read!

If I were to pick my favorite character, I'm not sure I could narrow it down!  

• Gretchen:  I love the interaction and relationships she has with her children.  She may be a stressed out mom wearing too many hats, but she will always be there for her kids!  She is also another example of one never being too old to want the best for your parents.  Her mom and dad may be divorced, and living in separate areas of the country, but she can be soo sneaky in trying to bring them back together!
• Melissa:  I actually like her stand-offish attitude, she came from a tough childhood and had to learn to survive on her own.  Over time, with the right friends, she learns to open up, relax, and enjoy the company of others.  She has a lot to learn about family and friendships.
• Miriam and Gloria.  I loved these 2 ladies!  It was hard to believe they have only known each other for a short time, they seemed as if they have been life long friends!  Their friendship is a great example of how opposites attract and can compliment each other!
  
• Ramona:  Miriam's dead beat of a mother (and I use the term "mother" lightly!).  This is the one character I did not enjoy.  From what we know of her, she would be an example of someone who should not receive the "Mother of the Year" award...or even be nominated for it.  No, we do not know her background, or much about her life, but her attitude toward motherhood and parenting are enough to make me dislike her!

While this book was a slow start for me, it didn't take long to pick up speed!  I found myself enjoying most of the characters, cheering them on, and before I knew it, I had reached the end of the book!  I give this book 4 stars and highly recommend it for your Christmas reading!

**I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.**

Cherished - Kim Cash Tate

This true life story and song is what got to me more than the book did.  I knew nothing of this story before reading the book, and after doing an internet search, came across this interview.  This 8 minute clip is definately worth viewing, even if you don't read the book!

This book was a slower read for me, especially in the beginning.  Over the course of a month or longer, I finally made my way through, and ended up being happy with the ending.

I did enjoy the story of Kelli, her love of songwriting, and using that gift to work through some things in her past.  I wasn't sure where her relationship with Brian was headed, and there were many bumps along the way.  At times it seemed that Brian and Kelly would only reconnect through their family and friends, but the Lord had other things in mind for them.

The other storyline that got my attention, was that of Heather.  Heather always seemed to be making bad choices, from a one-night stand with a Christian musician, to an affair with a married man.  Just as she comes to the end of her rope, God is their to catch her, if only she will let Him.


**I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.**

Treasuring Emma - Kathleen Fuller

I loved this book!!!  I cannot stress how much I enjoyed this book!  I had been anticipating reading this book for the last week and did not want to wait for the actual physical book to arrive, so I decided to download it as an e-book last night.  Just let me say, between my reading last night and then this morning, I finished the book in record time.

The relationship between Emma and her sister, Clara, is a touchy one from the start.  With everything that is going on in the Shetler family, one would think that Emma's family would be a safe haven, a place of peace.  But that is not the case...Emma and Clara rarely see eye to eye, especially where the family farm is concerned.  Emma wants to take things slow, make gradual changes, but Clara wants to jump in feet first, and isn't afraid to voice her opinions.

Adam has been gone for a few years, and upon his return, is hoping his father's heart has softened towards him.  After being baptized, and making some unwise decisions, he was banned from the family home.  Having turned his back on his childhood friend, Emma, can she ever forgive him for leaving like he did?  Can they repair their relationship and start fresh, or will the mysterious newcomer win her heart?

Getting near the end of the book, I was rooting for Emma and Adam to work things out.  Little did I realize how close to the end of the book I really was!  Not having everything wrapped up nicely in the end, I am eagerly awaiting Kathleen Fuller's next book in this Middlefield book!

I give this book 5 stars and highly recommend it!

**I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.**

The Final Hour - Andrew Klavan

The Final Hour is book 4 of this series, but really, could be read alone. As always, the author does an excellent job drawing the reader in, from the beginning, I knew this was a series I would enjoy. Afterall, one of my favorite shows had been the TV series 24!

After having read the back of the book, my husband went to our library and checked out the first two books of the series! I love when we can agree on a book series, read them individually, and then come together for discussion!

This book would be great for a teenage book read also!

I give this book 4 stars!

I received this book free from Booksneeze in exchange for an honest review.