The long awakening

The long awakening by Lindsay O'conner. Lindsay looked forward to the future as any parent welcoming a new life into the world does! With a bit of nerves and lots of excitement! Only Lindsay's story has to wait for its happy ending. While a beautiful baby girl is brought into the world, a mother was almost taken out of it. Put in a coma few believed she would ever come out of she awakens after over 40 days to a not so newborn baby, a wonderful daughter who came to came for her little sister and a husband by her side. We walk with the family through the struggles they race during and after the coma. 

     What a wonderful book! Any mother reading this would be on the edge of her seat! I certainly was! I can't imagine going through something like this! It brought me to tears so many times! If you want a book that shows you what our prayers can accomplish, this is it! 

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, inc. available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. 

He wins she wins

He wins she wins, by Willard f. Harley jr. This book serves as a guide to conflict in the marriage. We all goe through them, every marriage has its arguments! Mr. Harley suggests rather we need to learn to compromise or enthusiastically agree as he says. We don't want one spouse to feel like they won am done to feel like they lost, but rather both feel like winners. To make decisions in the marriage as equal partners, that build both up and leave the marriage healthy. 

     I felt this book was ok, a little unrealistic in some areas but I do appreciate him talking about both the husband and wife being equal. It's not a new concept at all though as I recently read a book by Gary Smalley that talked about making decisions based on both spouses winning so neither feels like a looser. Like I said it was ok and had some good ideas/thoughts in it.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, inc. available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. 

An untamed heart

An untamed heart by Loraine Snelling. Ingeborg is older than most girls who are unmarried. But the problem is, she doesn't really want any of the suitors in her area. She'd rather spend her summers at the mills and live the single life than marry any of them. While she longs to be a midwife, her temperamental mother seems destined to keep that from her! Unexpectedly she comes across Nils hurt in the mountains. He figured he was well enough after his accident to hike, but he thought wrong. While being nursed by back to health, he and ingeborg find themselves falling for each other. Opportunity arises and ingeborg also finds herself the opportunity to travel to America with a widower.. She's dreamed of living there, but not like this. 

    I found this book a little hard to get into. I'm not sure if it was just because the names were so different to me that I found it hard to remember who was who. I've read other books by this author and loved them, it just had a rough time with this one. It is well written though! 

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, inc. available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany house, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Return to me

Return to me, by Lynn Austin. King Cyrus has allowed the people back to Jerusalem. They had been waiting and praying for this day for years! We follow Iddo and his wife as they return, Iddo haven been taken into captivity and his wife born in captivity, now they must find themselves and rely on each other and God as they return! Iddo has been training his whole life to minister in the temple once the prophecies are fulfilled! There's not much left of the Jerusalem he left behind though. Struggles with family, people turning from God and the day to day struggles of living in biblical times.

    I love biblical fiction! This is a great story and as far as I can tell stuck closely to scripture in these events! They writing style pulls you in so you feel you are there with them! A very big 5/5 for this book! 

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, inc. available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany house, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

A bride for keeps

A bride for keeps, by Melissa Jagears.  Everette and Julie come from different situations, but have one thing in common. Neither one of them wants to get married to the other one. Everette's been jilted too many times by the mail order brides and is unwilling to risk himself again. Julie a classy woman who's despite get away from her fathers home decides to try the mail order bride route! The two come together and as much as they are opposed to the idea, they know they need to get married, not necessarily for love, but more so business. Everette needs help in the home and Julie needs a new home. But what they don't expect or welcome are the feelings they start to have for each other. 

    I love books that come in series! I love following characters through out books to find what's happened to them! I don't believe I've ever read a book by Melissa Jagears, but this one was great! I can't wait for the rest of the books to come out! The mail order bride story line must be getting popular as I've seen so many fiction books on the topic! But pick this one over the others ;) it's really good! 

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, inc. available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany house, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Fashioned to Reign

Fashioned to Reign, Empowering Women to Fulfill Their Divine Destiny, by Kris Vallotton. God created women to stand along side men, not beneath them, not created of lesser value than, but to be fully equal with them. Yet for whatever reasons, the church has yet to grasp this. The Bible is full Jesus showing us just that, that woman were created equal. Yet people tend to pull out the same few verses without ever actually looking at them and rely on the tradition of the church to interpret them rather than revelation. Kris doesn't do that, he shows us the verses, shows us the other interpretations there are out there about them. Calls us to use our brains and actually seek God on what those verses mean rather than as a means to control. 

   This is a book I can't say enough good things about. I have been recommmending this book to everyone I know. It is a needed book in every church. For years I've felt like the outsider, I don't believe that God created my husband as the boss and my role as a christian wife is to do as he thinks I should. I have been created equal, and I have a brain! I am capable of intellegent decisions! The oppression in churches is unreal to me. I didn't grow up in the church and didn't really notice it till I was married and then it seemed everyone knew what my marriage should look like. I have fought against this issue for years, have lost friends over it, have had emails sent to my pastor about me more times than I care to count! But there is that part of me inside that says "no this is wrong" and while I think it would be easy sometimes to just give in and stop caring, I can't. The church needs freedom, the women within the walls of the church need freedom! An oppressed people will always rebell its only a matter of time. Kris's book was what I needed. It was that push that even though you feel alone, because freedom of women isn't a common view in most churches, that there's at least one other person out there who sees it! Who's saying its worth fighting for! This is a book that will revolutionize the church if they would just pick it up and read it! WE NEED THIS BOOK!!!!

"Book was recieved in exchange for an honest reply from Bethany house."

Trapped

Trapped, by Irene Hannon. Darcy is tired of being bossed around by her older half sister Laura, she barely knows Laura and only came to live with her when her Father died. She knows she's an inconvience on her, but she was the only family she had left. So rather than dealing with this she decides to live on her own and that starts with running away.  With plans to go to Chicago and start over she packs her bags and leaves. Laura shocked to learn that her younger sister has left, hires a PI to find her. Luckly for them a major snow storm hits and they know she couldn't have travelled far. But they also know she's met some pretty sketchy people. So if they want to find her safe and alive they need to hurry. The more that Dev (the PI) investigates this case, the more he realizes that they're dealing with more than just a runaway teen. He also knows that they need to find her fast. 

    Again this is a great novel! The story was great and I loved the characters. I think we could have done without as much on the love connection story line, that was a little over done in my opinion. But it was still enough to keep me wanting to finish this book so I could find out what happend to Darcy! 

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group"

Dangerous Passage

Dangerous Passage, by Lisa Harris. Avery knows death, with her brother killed on the job as well as her husband. She's seen enough to last her a life time, but when two deaths happen that seem to be linked. She moves in to solve the crimes. Looking for a potentional serial killer she teams up wih Jackson the medical examiner, professionally, as well as romantically. Things take a twist though while investigating the murders and they soon find that they're into something much bigger than they origianally thought! Not only that, but these people are determined not to be found and are willing to do what ever it takes to scare Avery off the case. 

    This book had everything! Enough suspense to keep you in it till the end, romance that wasn't over the top, and a story line that you wanted to stay involved in! I thouroughly enjoyed reading this book! It was one of those "you don't put it down till its done" novels!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group."

Parenting your powerful child

Parenting your Powerful Child, by Dr. Kevin Leman.  Parenting a child who is a born leader is probably one of the hardest things a parent will come across! But it is also one of the most rewarding!! Kids can try many ways to try and gain the upper hand on their parents, but as parents we need to recognize this is happening and work with our children to raise them into well rounded heathy adults. Not adults with entitlement issues. Dr. Leman's book teaches about the different stratagies that kids use to manipulate parents and he holds parents to a standard that says, you're the parent, act like it! The goal of raising powerful children isn't to break their spirits, thats a horrible idea and one that leads to adults with issues! Rather we want to work with their strengths and empower them, while also parenting them. While it can be very tiring and easier to just give in and go back to the things we've always done, there are so many rewards in seeing it through! I really liked this book. I have a strong willed child, who tests our patience daily, but she's also so rewarding! I think the advice he gives is great and works on building children up rather than tearing them down so they'll listen. I compeltely agree with his focus on giving them chioce and also letting the see the consequenses/rewards of the choices they make. Over all this book gets a great review! Its needed in our society today!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group"

10 great dates

10 great dates, by Peter and Heather Larson and David and Claudia Arp. I wouldn't say this is really a date night of fun kinda book lol, but rather something you'd want to do to builder a deeper relationship with your spouce and with God. They focus on drawing you to learn more of your spouce and to do things together that open yourselves up to each other. We also find a what to do section, or I guess you could call it home work/prepwork type work. These aren't your average dates where you're out for a night of fun (which is nice and needed), but rather one where you're looking for a truely intimate relationship with your spouce. 

     When I first saw this book I thought, "great another marriage book". as you can tell I'm not a fan of marriage books lol. I find that most do not actually focus on each other but are much rather a "wives submit to your husband" type books that I vehemently disagree with! I was plesently surprised with this book though that it is not like that at all! its all about working together and building your relationship with each other and with God. It calls for both the husband and wife to be involved. In the end I actually really liked this book! Its one I will be passing on to other people!!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available a your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group"

The lifestyle of a prophet

The lifestyle of a prophet, by James Goll. We take a 21 day journey with James Goll on stepping into a prophetic anointing. I've had the pleasure or reading other books by James Goll as well as hearing him in person as a speaker at a conference. This book was not a disappointment. He genuinely cares about his readers and wants what is best for them. Wants to direct them to the Fathers heart for them in this calling! Kind of like the how to book of the prophetic! Much needed in this time! He covers many areas in life such as wisdom, intimacy and revelation. It is so rich and so full of the word of God and The Holy Spirit! This is a must read for those who feel they are called to the ministry of prophecy! I will be passing this book along! 

Book was received in exchange of an honest review by chosen books. 

Welcome to last chance

Welcome to last chance, by Cathleen Armstrong. Lainie is driving down the highway escaping her past when lights start to go on. The dashboard lights that is. The car is making some terrible noises and Lainie is begging it to at least make it to somewhere when she arrives at her last chance...literally the town is called last chance in New Mexico. Feeling a little stranded and spending a night sleeping in her car, Lainie is surprised when strangers want to help her. One welcomes her into her home and gives her a place to call home as long as she needs it! As much as Lainie seems to scoff at this small town she is definitely falling for its charm! Only the past she was trying to escape is still looking for her and threatens to ruin what she has found in last chance. 

     Again this was a book I really enjoyed! It's easy to fall in live with the characters and to cheer them on! I found myself trying to tell Lainie what to do whole reading the novel lol, "no don't do that! Listen to them", etc. again this whole reading series thing is hard to keep up with I may have to ignore life for a week or so to get all caught up with the characters in the books I love when the new books come out! 

Book was received curtesy from Revell in exchange of an honest review. 

The letters

The letters, by Suzanne Woods Fisher. Rose lost her husband and now the family is left to her to raise on her own. But how is a single Amish woman with children supposed to do that? Well part of doing that is to move back with her mother in law, not only to find a place for her family but to also care for the older woman. Finances are getting lower and Rise is praying that God would give her some way to provide for her family. When the idea comes to her to turn the basement loft of the garage into a hotel room! She quickly sets to work with the help of a neighbour and the blessing of the bishop. Soon her doors are open and her first guest comes through. But rose us quickly learning that this wasn't just about an income but of helping others and receiving blessings herself! 

     Suzanne Fisher is one of my favourite authors! So I was thrilled to learn of this book! Even more thrilled to read it! What was even more exciting was learning the connection these people all had from her previous books! It's like catching up with old friends! God orchestrates more in our lives then we ever realize! He puts the right people there at the right times! This novel reinforces that! I can't wait for the next book! 

Book received curtesy from Revell in exchange for an honest review.  

The spiritual danger of doing good

The spiritual danger of doing good, by Peter Greer. I believe this is the first book I've read from this author, so I wasn't too sure what I'd be getting into when I opened the pages. Honestly it wasn't what I expected!! I'm not sure what I expected, I thought it'd be irrelevant, a little over the top and maybe one of those books you finish and stuff on the shelf. But, it's not! It's a book filled with pages from an author who understands how it feels to give yourself to something to the point of giving too much! Who's able to show the reader the signs of what they're doing and how it's effecting them. The dangers of what they're doing and how they can end up! As someone who's family is in the ministry this is a must read! I would love to see this as a text book in bible college for would be pastors. This is well done and much needed! 

Book was received curtesy from Bethany house in exchange for an honest review! 

A simple change

A simple change, by Judith Miller. In this second novel of the series we meet Jancey Rhoder. She's a trained teacher who's using this passion for teaching to volunteer to teach children at an orphanage who'd otherwise be left behind. She loves her work and can't picture ever leaving them behind! Only her mother is sick, and getting worse. The doctors have done all they know to do. Her parents made the decision to return to the Amana colony they grew up on. They left years earlier when they fell in love and didn't want to separate for the year that the colony required. But this is where Jancey's mother wishes to live out her last days. Jancey decides to go with them to care for her mother, but that means leaving the job behind and her life behind. Nathan, who's pretty sure he's going to marry Jancey, is less than pleased with this decision and eagerly awaits for Jancey to see how foolish she's been and return to him. Except that Jancey isn't hating her new life! 

     This was such a great book! Self sacrifice, love, honouring are just a few of the words to describe it! It really was a joy to read this book! To learn about a group of people I know little about! I'm ready for the next book in this series to come out! Hopefully it's done soon!!! 

Book was received curtesy of Bethany house in exchange of an honest review.

Rules of murder

Rules of murder, by Julianna Deering. Drew expects a lot to happen on his estate, but what he doesn't expect is to find a body! A mystery is intriguing to Drew, but impressing a girl, is just slightly more intriguing. So off drew goes to try and solve the mystery himself of the murder on his property with Madeline to aid him, and search for a killer! Only I'm not sure drew is ready for what he walked into! 

     I'm a pretty big fan of this book! Who doesn't love a good mystery and this one keeps you on your toes! It's like nancy drew or hardy boys, but for adults!! The characters are memorable and instantly we connect with them as you read! This truly is one of those books you don't put down!  I can't wait for the next books in this series to come out! I'm now a lifelong fan and will be on the look out for this authors books! 

Book was given in exchange of an honest review from Bethany house. 

Surviving an affair

Surviving an affair, by Willard F. Harley jr. And Jennifer Harley Chalmers. To start off I need to clarify that I have no personal experiences in affairs. So I wasn't coming at this book looking for it to help me fix something. As far as how much it will help, I really can't say because I don't think I can even imagine the heartache that an affair causes. But it was an interesting read to glimpse into that world through these authors and their explanations of why affairs happen and how to survive it. I do think though that the authors need to thread very carefully on how they talk about the "fault" of the affair as it seemed to me sometimes that they leaned towards the "innocent" party being the one to drive the other to an affair. It takes the bigger person to start searching for healing in a relationship and it takes a lot of forgiveness! I would pass this book along if I did find myself speaking to dine one going through this situation because it does have some very good points! But like I said I do think they needed to be a little more cautious.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 
Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group". 

Small town girl

Small town girl, by Ann H. Gabhart. Sometimes things in life just suck. Sucks in the your sister is marrying the man you love kind of way! But that's the situation Kate finds herself in, her sister marrying the only man she loves. Jay spies her and falls for her pretty quick! If only he can get her to fall for him too! But she's trying to convince herself that she will fall for no one! But war changes things, it always does. And with Jay leaving to fight in it Kate finds herself falling for him and worrying about him! But Kate knows where her strength comes from and Jay does not....

    This book was a little slow moving at the beginning, but once you got a bit in it really picked up! I have read previous books by this author and have always enjoyed them! This book has you falling in love with the characters and longing for more books about them!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 
Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group". 

Trouble in store

Trouble in store, by Carol Cox. Out of options. That's where Melanie finds herself, she has no where else to turn when she finds a store has been left to her by a relative. With no other options she moves in to take over! Well not only was the store left to her, but it was also left to Caleb by his uncle, who happened to be a co-owner! So an unlikely partner ship is made, not happily made mind you. And surely if Caleb can find done one for Melanie to marry, anyone really, she would leave the mercantile to him! Except that he didn't expect for feelings to get in the way....he also didn't expect mystery and intrigue to get in the way either! Dead bodies, gossiping people, will they even survive working in this place? 

   Great book! And a fun read! It kept me captivated beginning to end! I love these books that don't make their female characters simple and unable to manage anything!  Put it in your Christian must read list!!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group". 

A most peculiar circumstance

A most peculiar circumstance, by Jen Turano. I read the first book in this series and quite enjoyed that book. I knew by the first novel that this authors books tend to move fast and you need to pay attention or you'll get lost! We find ourselves right snack in the middle if Arabella life, or should I say troubles lol. She believes in the woman's movement and believes her place is right in the heart of it! She's out to prove that a woman can and will succeed on her own, except that she lands herself in jail and then needs the help of a certain man...and that's only the beginning of the story!! This is a fast paced, funny and entertaining read! It goes along wonderfully with the first book in the series! It surely will not disappoint! After reading these two books I am a fan of this author! I can't wait to see the next book! 

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group". 

Angels in the fire

Angels in the fire, by Dan Stadler. A remarkable testimony of Dan and Tracey Stadler. When hit by a drunk driver people were able to pull Dan from the wreckage, but Tracey was trapped. It seemed as though she would not get out and her life was ending, when a glorious stranger came out from the woods. He rescued Tracey from the vehicle and saved her life. We follow this couple through that event and others through their lives and marriage. God works in all our lives, we just need to recognize that he's there! This is an amazing book that will give you goose bumps (Or Holy Spirit bumps if you're feeling religious lol)! I loved the message of this book, God is there, He cares, He is involved! He is our ever present help! I love books that help draw you closer to the heart of God and this is one of them! I highly recommend this book!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. 
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group". 

The Lesson

The Lesson, by Suzanne Woods Fisher. This is the third book in the stony ridge seasons series. This time we hear about M.K. Though we met her in previous novels and discovered her ability to get into trouble, this book is dedicated to hearing all about her! Carelessness may be one of M.K.'s worst qualities, she doesn't mean to but things grab her attention and her mind wanders, then before she knows it she's said something or done something to land herself in hot water. Which is exactly what happened when M.K. Accidentally ran over the school teacher on her scooter. Now due to the exaggeration of injuries MK is assigned to sub for the injured teacher. But what does MK know about teaching? She find an elder Amish woman and discovers she used to teach, God placed someone in her path to help her! Yet she again finds herself in trouble when she heard a shot fired and finds a man shot when she goes and investigates. Not only that but she saw a man running from the scene! Her mind working over time her suspicions turn to a new young Amish man in the community and is convinced that he is the murderer.

      This book was so good! I found myself getting so annoyed at MK and all her assumptions, but it was also so funny! Gossip seems to be a problem among all people! It was great hearing about MK after the first two novels! This is a fun book with a great lesson! I don't just recommend this book, but also recommend getting the series! It is so good!!!

Book was received in exchange for an honest review from Graf-Martins communication 

Though mountains fall

Though Mountains Fall, Daughters of Caleb Bender Series #3, by Dale Cramer. This is the third book in this Amish series where we follow Caleb's family and their time in Mexico. They left America to get away from the government that is trying to regulate what and how the Amish children are being taught, everything that goes against their beliefs. They arrive in Mexico and while they are free to teach the children as they see fit, they are not however without problems. Bandits being the biggest and most dangerous problem they have. Being a peaceful people they have no way of protecting their land or their families. One of their daughters married a Mexican man and now faces being banished for it. Now a bishop is considering moving out there, which will mean great things for the community, they'll be able to marry, have proper services, etc! But first he needs to see for himself that it would be a good move for his family! With so many problems in the community Caleb wonders if it was worth it at all, and if they should just give up and move back home. 

     I adored this book! I've loved every book in Dale Cramer's Amish series! He gives us such a strong passionate picture of love, grace and faith! We feel the courage of Caleb as he tried to lead his family in Mexico and we even feel his loss when he realizes it was a mistake! It's a story that inspires you and encourages you. Amish novels are among my favourite fiction and this was no exception! 

Book was received in exchange of an honest review from Bethany house publishers

That Certain Summer

That Certain summer, by Irene Hannon Karen and Val don't have an easy mother, and a stroke resulting in them having to care for her more doesn't make dealing with her any easier! Karen has carried the burden of caring for their mother who finds nothing good to say about her for years. She finds herself at a breaking point, her daughter was injured requiring more help, her marriage has ended and now this. With all she can handle she calls her sister to let her know that the time has come for her to help out, since she's been absent for years letting everything fall on Karen. Val knowing that she must step up comes, but also with the hope of reconciling her past and moving forward for the mistake she made years prior. What she didn't expect to find was love again, neither did Karen! Here they are reunited as sisters and really getting along, but also finding feelings that they didn't think they'd find again through unlikely men!

    This is a great book, there are some books that do more than just tell a story. They help you deal with past hurts, they lead you to the ONE who can heal your hurts. This is one of those books! I don't know the pain of abortion, but this book deals with it so beautifully and shows the forgiveness that God has for all his children! This is not only a great novel, but a book that I can see helping many woman get over the sin of abortion!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Stealing the Preacher

Stealing the Preacher, by Karen Witemeyer. Crocket Archer is finally doing what he feels called to! Setting out on his own and answering his calling to be a preacher! Sure he's been teaching his own family for years, but its not what he's meant to do forever! So leaving to "interview" for a position at a church he finds himself on a train that's being held up by robbers, but rather than looking to steal money the men are looking to steal a preacher! Crocket finds himself presented to the leader of the train outlaws daughter for her birthday. Joanna had been praying for a while for a preacher to come to their small community and lead them back to God, but she never expected that her father would go so far as to steal one for her! Yet they find themselves working together and finding romance together as they try and lead this community back to God!

    Again another great book by Karen Witemeyer! I loved her book Short-straw Bride and was so happy to see some of the characters again in this book! It was a great book start to finish! It captures your attention right from the start and I found myself cheering for the characters when they had breakthroughs! Karen Witemeyer's writing style is fantastic and so easy to get lost in, she is a great author and this is a great book!!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

The Quarryman's Bride

The Quarryman's Bride by Tracie Peterson. Emmalyne was engaged and soon to be married to the man she loved, Tavin. Then tragedy struck their family and two of Emmalyne's younger sisters died. The custom of their people says that the youngest daughter must remain unmarried and living at home to support her parents in their old age. Emmalyne didn't think much of the tradition as it wouldn't have effected her, that is until her younger sisters died and left her now the youngest daughter of the family and now responsible to care for them. Her father is a hard man, who has little love to give his family. No matter what Emmalyne's feelings to Travis he has decided the wedding will not happen now and she will remain with them to care for them. So Emmalyne and Travis part ways as she moves with her family to a new community. Years later they find themselves returning to the community, but surely Travis has moved on and married now right? Wrong he hasn't! There he is still available yet still out of reach to Emmalyne. 

     What a great novel! I loved it! I loved following these characters and getting to know them! You know you're reading a good book when you get carried away and find yourself getting angry at the characters to just do what they should and forget traditions! I'm pretty sure I finished this book in one day as it was one I just couldn't set down! a must read!!!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Fully alive

Fully Alive, by Dr. Larry Crabb. In this book Dr. Crabb looks at the roles between woman and men, what did God create each of them to be? How does God define a man and a woman? Dr. Crab does an intense search through the Bible to teach us what it is that God says our roles are and how we can best fulfill them. Each of the sexes have been created uniquely with unique purposes. Each of us shows the heart of God and are no vital to revealing who God is. A woman in her femininity leads others to Christ, just as a man in his masculinity leads people to Christ. God has created us different with a purpose that all leads back to Him. 

     Initially I as really excited to read this book. We see so many books come out on marriage roles, telling woman that her responsibility is to listen to her husband. So when I saw this book I flipped through and had high hopes that it wasn't going to be one of those books. unfortunately I was disappointed when in the end it turned out to be the same message that many other books have tried to convey. I didn't find anything new that hasn't been said many times before. I was also disappointed that it seemed that the author only looked at one possible way that scripture could be interpreted without looking at how there are many arguments on the interpretation of the scriptures. I also found his book hard to follow as it took a while for him to just come right out and state what he actually believed and was saying.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bakerbooks, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

When Love Calls, Gregory Sisters series #1

When Love Calls, Gregory sisters series #1, by Lorna Seilstad. Hannah finds herself caring for her two sisters after both her parents pass away. They're left with no money, no jobs, and then find that they are also without their farm after the bank takes it from them when they can't make the payments on it. Not knowing what else to do Hannah is grateful for the opportunity to become a hello girl, at the local calling station. While she's not great at following rules, in order to keep this job and support her family she will do anything! And Hello girls have a lot of rules, one of those being no dating, which a local attorney is making really hard. Finally finishing her hello girl school and being able to date she decides to give Lincoln Cole a chance, after all she's representing her childhood friend from false arson charges. We get to work side by side with Hannah and Lincoln as they work to free Walt and to find out who's behind these dangerous fires. 

    Again this was an awesome book! I loved it start to finish! I love books that present the female characters as strong woman able to accomplish what they need to with the strength and the passion to do so! Hannah is an example to all woman of how strong we can be! She is an inspiration! This is a book that all woman will fall in love with! I can't wait to read more about this family in the next book. 

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Undeniably yours, Porter family Series #1

Undeniably Yours, Porter Family Series #1, by Becky Wade. Meg's inherited a business she has no business being involved in. Her father who ran a major oil company that he inherited from his father, who inherited it from his father and now she's inherited it. Only she has no desire to be involved in the oil company. While settling her fathers estate she decides to close down his ranch and sell off the horses, only she doesn't count on falling in love with the ranch manager Bo. Bo should hate this woman who's announced that she will be selling off the ranch and taking him out of a job that he was born to do. But he doesn't, he finds himself wanting to protect this woman from those who'd want to do harm to her and worst of all he finds himself falling in love with her. If only she'd let him protect her and trust that he does love her and wants good for her. 

    Becky wade has done it! Another book thats a hit! It kept me captivated from beginning to end, I actually got through this book in one day because I just couldn't put it down! It challenges you to put God first and to learn to trust him with every aspect of your life, even with who he has for you to trust your heart with. So grateful to have the chance to read so many great books, I can't wait for the next book in the series.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Sweet Mercy

Sweet Mercy, by Ann Tatlock. Eve's family finds themselves moving after her father learns that he's been laid off from his job. Jobs are hard to come by in that time and when the offer comes from her uncle for her Father and her mother and Eve to accept jobs at his lodge, they jump at the chance. St. Paul was an awful place to live anyway, the gang activity was high and St. Paul looks like a refuge for any and all gangsters. Their time at the lodge is going wonderful! They love their jobs, they're meeting people who are quickly becoming friends and most of all they're reconnecting with their family that's been estranged for years. Eve has fallen for a boy that she can see her self spending the rest of her life with. That is all until it all unravels one night. Eve learns that a good portion of the businesses in their town are involved in bootlegging. There's quite a brilliant scheme of transporting the liquor and a lot of money to be made in the business. But Eve has a strong conscience when it comes to alcohol and fully supports the prohibition. She couldn't stay silent even if she wanted to since the law would hold her criminally responsible for keeping quiet. But it also means biting the hand that feeds them as well. Not an easy choice for a young girl to make. 

     This was also a great book, I feel like a broken record with every review I do saying what a great book, but seriously they are! I've enjoyed reading this book so much, I love An Tatlock's writing style and since I'd already read a book by her that is my favourite book ever, I was looking forward to reading this one too! I was not disappointed! Its a book that just makes your heart happy!!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Revealing Jesus

Revealing Jesus, by Darlene Zschech. This is a 365 day devotional by a popular song writer and worship leader. the goal in here to bring us closer to Jesus by studying His word and looking at ourselves and how we can connect on a higher level with our Saviour. i started this devotional on my ipad in the Bible app. It was 2 weeks out of the book, but it was unbelievable! I loved each devotional and in fact found myself skipping ahead and reading more than one day at a time. I was so excited to learn that she had a year long devotional book, and even more excited to be given the chance to own it! I have loved it and will love it more as I read it over and over again. Theres nothing better than sitting at the feet of Jesus and hearing him whisper your name. This book will bring you to this place if you let it! Amazing.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Jennifer

Jennifer, an O'Malley love story, by Dee Henderson. In this novel we meet Jennifer O'Malley, a doctor that is dedicating her life to caring for children who are seriously ill. While trying to help a little boy who's dealing with the family being in crisis due to an accident she meets Tom, a surgeon, who's fallen head over heels for her. It takes its toll on Jennifer working with so many terminal patients and its hard not to get involved with them and care for them. It tests her spirits and most of all some of them Test her faith, especially when she's just learning to trust Jesus. Now looking for a way to introduce Tom to her family, who are pretty protective of her all the while dealing with this too. Life's not easy for Jennifer, and its not getting any easier.

     What a great book! I fell in love with this book and these characters, I haven't read any of the books in Dee Henderson's O'Mally series, but I'm hooked! I'm going to have to search out more of these books and read them! The characters are real people, with real problems. we See God at work in their lives and surprisingly we find God moving in our lives and teaching us through out this book as well! I love when you come across a book like this that opens you up to a whole series. 

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group. 

Adoring Addie

Adoring Addie, courtships of Lancaster series #2, by Leslie Gould. If Addie is anything, she's obedient! she's done as her parents wish for years, cooking, cleaning, taking care of her siblings among much much more. Philip Eicher is the one, the one that her parents have picked out for her to marry. He's practical, smart, able to care for a family and best of all she's not a Mosier! which was fine with Addie, until she met Jonathan. Unfortunately he is a Mosier and unfortunately Addie is in love with him. Her family has a feud with them for years, they barely speak and when the sons do speak its often with their fists. Addie and Jonathan know they're meant to be together, they know that God brought them together, but they don't know how they will stay together with their families so against each other. With the help of those in their community they may be able to help their parents move past this dispute, find the truth, and allow them to be together. 

    Loved this book!!!! So good! I love any of the Lancaster series books, this one was no exception! the  writing is wonderful, transporting you into the story and making you feel like part of the family. This is another winning book by Leslie Gould. I can't wait to get my hands on another book in this series I feel like I've been following this family for years through Leslie Gould's books! I love the honour and the respect that Leslie writes about the Amish with, the wonderful lessons we can learn from the Amish lifestyle. 

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Celebrations

Celebrations, mennonite girls can cook. Yay! love this cookbook!! I didn't grow up with a mennonite background, but my husband did. as I was flipping through the book I kept finding myself thinking, Oh my husband makes that lol. Its chalk full of great recipes that I've been enjoying emensely! I've already started cooking from it and the food is great! I love the recipes and how the books laid out, etc... My newly turned 7 year old also exclaims it as the best cookbook around since we made the rainbow cake that was included in it! This cookbook feeds the stomach and the soul! its one that I'll hang onto for years to come and will be using plenty! its a fantastic addition to my very small collection of cookbooks! I highly recommend it and have spoken about this book so many times already! Great cook book!!

Book has been provided courtesy of MennoMedia and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Herald Press, a publishing imprint of MennoMedia. 

The Uncomfortable Church

The Uncomfortable Church, by Dr. Lawrence Brice. There is a subject out there in the churches that seems to be hard to answer. How do you incorporate homosexual people into your congregation and should you? Dr. Brice tackles this subject and how the church responds to them and how they should respond to them. While we all know the negatives of the homosexual lifestyle, he also shows us that there are some positive characteristics that they inhabit. He covers topics from should there be gay marriage, should the church support it, and is the Bible clear on if its wrong or not. 

     This is an intense book that covers a wide range of topics involved in the homosexual lifestyle. I found it very hard to follow, just because he seemed to say one thing and then contradict it in the next paragraph/chapter/etc. Even after reading through the book I'm still unsure of what his stance is on homosexuals in the church? I know my view and that is that Christ loves us despite or sins or choices in life. we don't hate or try to condemn people to hell based on other sins and perhaps its about time for the church to realize that e need to look past the sins and see the persona and care more for their souls than their lifestyles. Thats not saying you don't call sin a sin, you do, but you have to care more for the person than taking a stand against what they're doing. 

Book has been provided courtesy of the author and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller. 

The Dance

The Dance, by Dan Walsh and Gary Smalley. Love can buy a lot of things, but there's one thing it can't buy, love. That's what Marilyn longs for, she has everything she could need a big house, successful husband, money, etc. She's made every effort she knows how to find that love again with her husband  Jim, but she's tired of trying. She wants what every person out there wants, to be happy. Dancing makes her happy and its about time she thought of herself right? So Marilyn leaves to pursue her dreams,  she takes on a job, starts dancing lessons and starts enjoying her life! Jim on the other hand is stunned to find that he's suddenly alone. His wife is gone, and his life is changed. Now he finds himself with the choice of do I let her go, or do I fight for her. Fortunately he chooses the later! We follow his search for his wife to win her back and his search through his past to take care of himself in ways that he's neglected too long so that he can once again be the kind of husband his wife deserves. 

  LOVED IT!! there are so many stories out there about leaving marriages and not fighting for them that a book on fighting for marriage is a breath of fresh air! Marriage is a sacred covenant and one that should be fought for! Kudo's to the authors for fighting for this in their novel! It is needed not only in the world, but in the church too! There are so many lessons we can learn from fiction and this is one of these novels. This book made my heart happy!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications,Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Sweet Sanctuary

Sweet Sanctuary, by Kim Vogel Sawyer. Lydia finds herself a mom to Nicky, the words sweetheart can't begin to describe him! Yet trouble is brewing, as they know Nicky's drug addicted father is looking for him. Not with honourable intentions, but rather to sell him to a wealthy couple who are desperate to adopt a child. Not sure what else to do Lydia's father tries to force Dr. Micah Hatcher into marrying his daughter and protecting his grandchild from his father. unfortunately Micah isn't willing to be forced into a marriage with a woman and a child who is not his. What ensues is a new formed relationship with Micah for Lydia and twists and turns to this story that no one will see coming. 

     This is a wonderful book on redemption, second chances and forgiveness! This author has done an amazing job in writing this story. I love the characters and their personalities. Sometimes you come across characters in a book that inspire you to be a better person, a better Christian. I can't say enough good things about this book, its one that not only entertains its also teaches! A fantastic addition to my llibrary!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Love at any cost

Love at any cost, by Julie Lessman. Cassidy is a strong willed girl, in a time where strong willed girls were looked down upon. After thinking she found Mr. right, who turned out to be Mr. Wrong, Cassidy decides a new start is in order and joining her cousins family for the summer in San Francisco and hopefully longer to teach at an all girls school. She's written off boys, she's not looking for any type of relationship, and in fact will do everything in her power to prevent a relationship. Unfortunately she's met Jamie, who's just as headstrong and smitten with her. He will do what ever it takes to show Cassidy that she can trust him with her heart, that is until he finds out that she doesn't have the money he thought she had. 

     Well the story line of this book was good, the characters were great and I really liked them. But what I didn't like was the style of the writing. I found the author to be painfully obvious in trying to communicate that they were from Texas. The over use of the the words: hog tied, and pretty boy, etc.. were very wearing. I wanted to love this book, because the characters were great, but I just found the use of language to write the story too painful to actually enjoy it. Perhaps there's others out there that enjoy that, but I'm not one of them!

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revel, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

What a Son needs from his Mom

What a son needs from his mom, by Cheri Fuller.  "Parenting them is an adventure" the opening to raising boys! Boys are a whole new world, as a mom and a female, I look at them baffled because I obviously don't understand them lol. Lord Bless authors like this that try and give us a little insight to the world of boys! as a mom of only girls, I don't have the challenges of raising boys, rather just the challenges of raising girls, but as the wife of a children's pastor and a children's ministry worker, I find myself confused by them lol. I love the style of writing that Cheri Fuller uses, straight and to the point. She admits that this book isn't a cure all or the answer to all things boys. But she gives us wisdom, an insight into what it takes to raise boys into men. Prayer being the most important thing we can do for boys. God has plans for all his children, girls and boys, I'm thankful for the bits of wisdom from people who have been there and have listened to God's voice in sharing how to do so well! This is a book I will be sharing with my friends with boys! 

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

The Gate

The Gate, by Dann A. Stouten. If there's one thing that us girls know how to do well its shopping, which is why Sky finds himself on his own for a weekend and his plans for a weekend getaway with his  wife changed when his daughters and wife plan a shopping trip. With nothing else to do Sky decides to get away on his own and why not try out the place he found in the ad, an old cottage. What happens there changes Sky's life, he not only has a weekend to take care of himself and keep himself from burnout, he also has an encounter with God he'll never forget. He meets people that take him through his past and give him hope for the future! 

     This book reminds me of the book The Shack, not that the story is at all the same, but the strong use of analogy is what struck me. There are lessons you can learn in fictional stories, that you just can't learn being told outright. Which is why I think that Jesus spoke in parables. This way of teaching sticks with you for life, its a story and a truth you'll remember for the rest of your life. You don't come across books like this often, but when you do you treasure them. 

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Finding God in the dark

Finding God in the dark, by Ted Kluck and Ronnie Martin. In this book we hear the lives and losses of these two authors. How even when tragedy portrayed itself that God came and broke through the darkness. they remind us that even when we face lonely times that God is still there and God is still Good! He has good plans for us, a hope and a future. They remind us that we're not alone, that we have an ever present help! their stories walk us through the dark times in their lives, but they also bring us hope.  The greatest thing a Christian can ever do is to bring light to the dark areas of their life. By doing so you take away the foot hold that Satan has, you also bring hope and light to those going through the same. Satan's best tool is trying to convince the christian that its only them going through problems, books like this, people like this bring truth to the lies! They give people permission to admit their problems, hurts, etc...They kick the darkness till it bleeds light. this is a needed boo, great as a gift for the person you know who is struggling, but also great in a personal library.

 Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

You're made for a God sized dream

You're made for a God sized dream, by Holly Gerth. Apparently Holly Gerth wrote a book just for me! It must have been just for me, after all it spoke so personally to me from the beginning to the end! Besides she's one of my favourite non fiction writers, so it would only make sense that she would write a book just for me! All kidding aside, it is an amazing book, God gives us all dreams, our job is to discover what that is, we'll face fears, feeling overwhelmed, etc...But God will see it through it all and Holly Gerth is there to tell you all about it! Its one of those books that gives you that extra push you need to seek God more and find out what you were made for! It speaks strait to your heart! Actually my husband picked up this book and started reading it and found himself quite a ways into it before he realized it was written for woman, but decided that because it was so good he was going to finish it anyway! this book won't disappoint, She is a gifted writer that knows the struggles we all face and has a way of helping us find peace in this journey. This is definitely a gift book, one of those books that you should buy as presents for whatever occasion just because people need to read it! Will be recommending this book!!


"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

Scent of Lilacs

Scent of Lilacs, by Ann H. Gabhart. Jocie has many prayers, after all her dad is a preacher and has taught her that God listens to our prayers, so she figures if she keeps praying eventually God will answer her prayers right? So she prays the Puppy prayer, she desperately wants a dog, but with her great aunt living with them and her cantankerous cat she doubted it would ever happen. Only one day the mangily little mutt follows her home and worms his way into their lives and hearts! So if the puppy prayer works, then maybe God is really listening! So she keeps praying, focusing more on her sister prayer! Years earlier her mother up and left one night taking her older sister with him. Jocie longs to see her sister again and find out why her mother didn't want them anymore? And soon her sister shows up on her front steps! In a whirlwind of excitement she finds herself having everything she wanted, her sister home, a dog, and to top it off, it would seem her father is falling for a woman! Only not everything is as it seems and although a teenager, Jocie is hardly equipped to handle the truth of her past.
Oh my goodness!!!! what a heart breaking book! What a roller coaster of emotions! I was drawn into this book and finding myself wanting to try and keep Jocie safe from the truth of her past and the heartache that she was sure to feel! Oh I hugged this book so many times, I'm pretty sure I even dreamed about it!!! Such a great book!!!



"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

moonlight masquerade

Moonlight Masquerade, by Ruth Axtell. Lady Celine, french by birth, but now widowed from a british man, finds herself spying for the french, she feels like it is her duty to help her coubtry especially from the English who are determined to control them. So she finds herself in the very dangerous position of spying on the English, if discovered she could be hanged as a traitor. Upon suspicion of Lady Celine's loyalties, Rees a British officer is sent in undercover acting as her butler to try and find if she is a spy and what information she has passed on to the french. Only soon Rees finds himself, while disagreeing with her giving the french information, fall for her and feeling a need to protect her. Which is good, because quite frankly Lady Celine needs some protection, she's in more trouble than even she knows! While falling for each other, they also find themselves growing more suspicious of each other and what they're really doing.
This book was full of suspense and surprises! had surprises for you around every corner! it made you want to cheer for the characters who could never seem to really be able to fall completely for each other! i'm pretty sure I got this book done in one day, it was that good! its one of those books to go soak in a tub with and lose yourself in for a few hours!!



"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

Unrivaled

Unrivalled, by Siri Mitchell. What is the dream of every child out there? Well Lucy lived it! The daughter of a candy store owner and creator Unfortunately you can't stay a child forever, so Lucy finds herself a young lady. She travelled all around Europe seeing all the wonderful sights and tasting all the delicious candy, in anticipation of bringing some of Europe home with her. Only when she finally comes home, she discovers that her father had a heart attack some time ago and isn't getting better. Not only that, but their candy business is at risk of being shut down, and has been ever since her fathers taffy recipe was stolen. Determined not to let that happen Lucy sets to trying to create something to save her fathers shop, only she doesn't seem to be successful at it. Her only hope may be to Marry a man she doesn't love for the sake of her family. Charlie finds himself in quite a bit of trouble and although he hasn't seen his father since he was a young boy when he abandoned them, he i sent to work with him in an opportunity to make something of himself. He finds himself smitten with Lucy, but their parents own rival candy companies, how can it ever work.
Again this is a book that I couldn't put down, it captured my attention and held it till the last page! I fell in love with the characters and they're story! parts of this had me literally laughing out loud. A great read, this is one of those books to recommend to your friends, because you know they'll love it!!!!



Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany house, a division of Baker Publishing Group

Swept Away

Swept away, by Mary Connealy. Ruthy's parents died a long time ago, what seemed like a carrying family took her in when times were hard and no one else would. Only they weren't what they seemed. They wanted Ruthy, but more so to do all the work they didn't want to do, and when she caught the eye of her new "brother" it was then decided that she would marry him. Ruthy prayed for a way out and planned to leave the moment she could do so. Then a sudden flash flood came along while their wagon train was crossing the river and swept her "family" away. Ruthy was swept away too, but miraculously her arm got caught in a piece of wood from the wagon and held her above water saving her life. Luke, on his way home to claim back his ranch that was stolen from him, finds Ruthy at the edge of the river and rescues her. Ruthy and Luke soon find themselves falling for each other, but Luke's future is a dangerous one, going up against the man who stole his ranch and murdered his father. He's looking for Luke and determined to kill him.
This book was great! It was more than I had expected! It was full of great characters that will ind their way into your heart! Its one of those books that makes you feel right there, so that when the book ends you find yourself disappointed and missing people who had been apart of your life for a while!



Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany house, a division of Baker Publishing Group

The Ice cutter's duaghter

The Ice Cutter's daughter, by Traci Patterson. Merrill made a pack with her dying mother that she would care for her siblings and father. So needless to say she didn't grow up with the most lady like skills. Knowing more than what the other young ladies in the area would know how to do, because it wasn't considered lady like to work like Merrill did. She had given up hope on ever finding love and having a man interested in her, because lets face it, the men wanted some one more lady like. Merrill was intimidating to the men. But then walks Rurik into her life, he falls for merrill and wants to be able to call her his wife. Her personality and her skills don't bother him at all. Yet former relationships seem to fall in the way of him winning merrill over, he makes for great gossip among the people, who appreciate a good scandal!
I really liked this book! I'm a major fan of books that portray woman as strong characters to encourage and inspire others! This is different than what we find in a lot of traditional Christian romance novels and a breath of fresh air!!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany house, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

Grace

Grace, by Max Lucado. Grace isn't something that is easily grasped by believers. It's a concept that is hard to believe or accept! Why would God offer it to us so freely? Can we ever really comprehend it and what is expected of us in showing grace to others? Max takes us through the stories of Jesus and how showed grace to "sinners", such as the woman caught in adultery. As well as the scriptures to give us a full understanding of what it means and how much it cost!

Max Lucado tackles the subject of grace in this book and my goodness does he ever do an amazing job! I am not a cryer, but I spent the majority of time reading this book in tears! It is so wonderful! If you've ever wondered what God thinks of you, Max Lucado does an amazing job showing you! If I could afford to buy 100 copies of this book just to hand out I would! It is an amazing book that is necessary for all of us to discover! This belongs in the hands of every believer! What an amazingly talented man! God has given him the gift of being able to convey his truths with much impact! I really can't say enough about this book, it is a must have!


Received this book in exchange for an honest review from book sneeze.

Placebo

Placebo by Steven James. Jevin Banks exposes people for a living. He even had his own tv show! His goal people to expose those who claim the supernatural as being attained by science or illusion. So the opportunity Comes available for him to investigate a research program, That involves neurological research. As he gets deeper into this research project that he's gone under cover to expose, he finds himself involved in something bigger than what he planned. It involves national security as well as People at the head of the pharmaceutical company making calls that are both unmoral and unethical.
I really enjoyed this book. It is a kind of book that just draws you in to the story and makes you feel like you're living The story it right alongside the other characters. It is suspenseful and will keep you guessing at every turn. It is a book that I could not put down if every book was like this one, I think all the world would be readers. I can't recommend this book enough, everyone should be reading this book everyone should be buying it! You will love it!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

Courting Cate

Courting Cate, by Leslie Gould. Cate seems destined to remain single, which is just fine with Cate! She has no desire to get married or have any type of relationship. Not since a boy from school humiliated her in front of everyone! But then Pete moves to the community and Cate finds herself falling for him! Until she overhears a conversation that he's being paid to date her. She wants to break it off with him and never see him again, but then Cate's sister finds herself in a compromising situation and needs Cate to get married so that she can too! Cate looks like she'll be in a loveless marriage forever.
For the most part I really enjoyed this book! I love Amish books and the writing is fantastic! The characters really come alive! The only down side in the book that I was disappointed in was in the end where it was revealed that Pete used reverse psychology on Cate to teach her a lesson. I found that really disrespectful and demeaning to a marriage relationship! Still it's a great novel!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

A change of fortune

A change of fortune, by Jen Turano. Eliza Sumner looses her father and if that weren't devastating enough she finds out that a man who used to work for them has also ran off with all her money too! So in effort to gain back her money and catch the man who stole it she masquerades as a governess. She runs into Mr. Becket at a rather unfortunate dinner party, where she seems to do nothing else but make a fool of herself all evening. After attempting a breaking at the house of the man who stole her money she soon finds that she and Mr. Becket have even more in common than she thought. They're both after this thief! So they team up to bring him to justice and restore her fortune!
Well a good book is one that should lead you into knowing what the characters are feeling without having to be obvious and tell you. Unfortunately this was the latter of those too. The author rather than letting us experience the characters would just tell us about them. I found the story very choppy, it was kind of all over the place and as a result not very easy to follow. I found myself not really enjoying reading this novel!



"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

The Breath of Dawn

The breath of dawn, by Kristen Heitzmann. Quinn has a thriving eBay business selling antiques and other trinkets she finds from estate sales. Which is perfect for her as it allows her to remain anonymous and keep her past from stalking her. She comes across an estate that is more than she bargained for! An old insane asylum that is now a house! She dives in to learn the secrets of the house and along the way meets Morgan. A widower who lost his wife two years previously and is now raising their 2 year old daughter Olivia. They quickly fall for each other and Morgan does everything in his power to protect Quinn from her past.
This was actually a pretty good book! It felt a little longer than it needed to be, but I quite enjoyed it! I love a book with a strong female character! Both characters were quite likeable and I love how by the end they both returned to looking to God for answers and help, rather than themselves! A good writer can teach their readers through fiction and imprint truth on their hearts, this is one if those novels! Well done!



"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group".