One More Last Chance
A Place to Call Home 2
By Cathleen Armstrong
Chris Reed is determined to make the Dip 'n' Dine his own, but Last Chance, New Mexico, doesn't like change at least not at the Dip 'n' Dine. But this has been Chris's dream to own his own place and to create the food he loves. But in typical fashion of a small town everyone seems to be against his ideas. Or do they?
Sarah Cooley has just returned home with her teaching degree in hand and she's determined that everything in Last Chance stay the same especially if Chris wants to change it. She's broken up with her long-time boyfriend and wants the comfort and security that Last Chance brings. It's one thing she and her grandmother Elizabeth don't see eye to eye on and won't be the last.
But when a lonely hurting 7 year old girl ends up in Chris's life, Sarah just may have to re-think her opinion on change coming to Last Chance. As Chris, Sarah, Elizabeth, Carlos, and even the opinionated Juanita rally around Olivia to help her, something happens. They actually start working together and not coming to a big uproar with every little suggestion Chris makes. And Rita is more than pleased when Chris comes up with a plan that could put Last Chance on map and he asks for her help in doing it.
I really liked Last Chance and I liked it better than Welcome to Last Chance the first book in the series. The characters are likable most of the time which is just like it is outside the books. I do think at the beginning Sarah was a bit bratty towards Chris. And as for her former boyfriend I wanted to slap him half the time - annoying!!! But it was overall fun to make another trip to Last Chance and see how everyone was doing. And the little teaser excerpt for book 3 has me already waiting for it's release date. Way to go with capturing one's attention Cathleen!
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher through Revell Reads in exchange for my honest review.
About the Book:
Some things never change . . . and some things change you forever.
Sarah Cooley has come home to Last Chance, New Mexico, for one reason--because it doesn't change. After a relationship gone bad with a man who wanted to change everything about her, Sarah is more than ready for the town whose motto may as well be, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."
Chris Reed, on the other hand, wants nothing more than to spark some change in the little town. As the new owner of the Dip 'n' Dine, he's shaking things up to draw folks from all over the Southwest into his restaurant.
As it turns out, the winds of change are blowing into Last Chance--just not in the ways that Sarah or Chris might expect.
With the same evocative writing and charming characters that won fans for her debut novel, Cathleen Armstrong invites you back to Last Chance for a heartwarming, romantic story of two people navigating the twists and turns of life in a small town.
Cathleen Armstrong is the award-winning author of Welcome to Last Chance. Though she lives in the San Francisco Bay Area, her roots remain deep in New Mexico where she grew up and where much of her family still lives. Learn more at www.cathleenarmstrong.com.
5.22.2014
5.21.2014
Simple Faith ~ Review
Simple Faith
The Peacemakers #2
By Anna Schmidt
Having read All God's Children I was more than thrilled to have the opportunity to review the second book in The Peacemakers series. And I was even more excited after a recent online chat with author Anna Schmidt, who also calls Wisconsin home.
That being said on to the review. Time has passed since Anja, Beth, and Josef escaped the Nazi camp. And they are determined to make a difference through the resistance by helping Allied forces trapped behind enemy lines.
Anja's husband and daughter were victims of the Nazis and she's determined that no one else will have to experience the loss that she has. But to make it work she is sacrificing time with her son Daniel in an effort to keep him safe.
But when the resistance recovers Airman Peter Trent the danger to everyone involved goes up. And Anja's heart is in danger as well.
If you've read All God's Children you will not be disappointed in Simple Faith. The book will easily capture your attention from the first pages with Peter parachuting over Belgium to the last with those who have survived gathered together in celebration willing to share of themselves yet again.
What I especially like about historical fiction is that it brings the past to life in an author's own unique voice. Anna Schmidt's Peacemakers is on par with the works of Brock and Bodie Thoene.
I was provided a copy of this book by the author through PUYB in conjunction with this blog tour in exchange for my fair and honest review.
About the Author:
Anna Schmidt is a three-time finalist for the coveted RITA award presented annually by Romance Writers of America. Her novel A SISTER’S FORGIVENESS gives Anna her fourth finalist honor for the Reviewers’ Choice Awards from Romantic Times magazine. She has won that award twice before.
Anna is the author of over twenty-five works of historical and contemporary fiction including her most recent series—THE PEACEMAKERS – set in World War II. All God’s Children was released last fall and tells the story of Beth—an American Quaker trapped in Nazi Germany where she finds herself fall in love with Josef—a young German medical student who is determined to save his beloved homeland from Hitler’s oppressive regime. Publisher’s Weekly had high praise for the novel noting that "The activities of the White Rose resistance group, as well as the prisoner uprising at the Sobibor concentration camp, are more than simple historical context. Schmidt seamlessly integrates these actual events, and the courageous real-life individuals who fought against Hitler’s regime, with her fictional characters and their story, to produce a strong tale of hope and love in the face of insurmountable obstacles."
Her current release is the inspirational historical romance, Simple Faith.
About the Book:
After losing her beloved husband and daughter and surviving Hitler’s Sobibor death camp, Quaker widow Anja Steinberg dedicates her life to helping others and keeping her son safe. As a member of the resistance, she helps displaced Allied airmen get back to their units in England. The journey is rigorous and filled with danger and there is no time for romance. Anja knows that Mikel, her fellow resistance worker, loves her. He would make a good husband and father for her son, but she doesn’t share his feelings. Is friendship enough?
Then American Peter Trent parachutes into her life. She must face facts—her heart did not die with her late husband and true love could be hers again. But marrying Mikel may be the only way she can save Peter.
Visit her website at www.booksbyanna.com or her blog at www.booksbyanna.wordpress.com.
The Peacemakers #2
By Anna Schmidt
Having read All God's Children I was more than thrilled to have the opportunity to review the second book in The Peacemakers series. And I was even more excited after a recent online chat with author Anna Schmidt, who also calls Wisconsin home.
That being said on to the review. Time has passed since Anja, Beth, and Josef escaped the Nazi camp. And they are determined to make a difference through the resistance by helping Allied forces trapped behind enemy lines.
Anja's husband and daughter were victims of the Nazis and she's determined that no one else will have to experience the loss that she has. But to make it work she is sacrificing time with her son Daniel in an effort to keep him safe.
But when the resistance recovers Airman Peter Trent the danger to everyone involved goes up. And Anja's heart is in danger as well.
If you've read All God's Children you will not be disappointed in Simple Faith. The book will easily capture your attention from the first pages with Peter parachuting over Belgium to the last with those who have survived gathered together in celebration willing to share of themselves yet again.
What I especially like about historical fiction is that it brings the past to life in an author's own unique voice. Anna Schmidt's Peacemakers is on par with the works of Brock and Bodie Thoene.
I was provided a copy of this book by the author through PUYB in conjunction with this blog tour in exchange for my fair and honest review.
About the Author:
Anna Schmidt is a three-time finalist for the coveted RITA award presented annually by Romance Writers of America. Her novel A SISTER’S FORGIVENESS gives Anna her fourth finalist honor for the Reviewers’ Choice Awards from Romantic Times magazine. She has won that award twice before.
Anna is the author of over twenty-five works of historical and contemporary fiction including her most recent series—THE PEACEMAKERS – set in World War II. All God’s Children was released last fall and tells the story of Beth—an American Quaker trapped in Nazi Germany where she finds herself fall in love with Josef—a young German medical student who is determined to save his beloved homeland from Hitler’s oppressive regime. Publisher’s Weekly had high praise for the novel noting that "The activities of the White Rose resistance group, as well as the prisoner uprising at the Sobibor concentration camp, are more than simple historical context. Schmidt seamlessly integrates these actual events, and the courageous real-life individuals who fought against Hitler’s regime, with her fictional characters and their story, to produce a strong tale of hope and love in the face of insurmountable obstacles."
Her current release is the inspirational historical romance, Simple Faith.
About the Book:
After losing her beloved husband and daughter and surviving Hitler’s Sobibor death camp, Quaker widow Anja Steinberg dedicates her life to helping others and keeping her son safe. As a member of the resistance, she helps displaced Allied airmen get back to their units in England. The journey is rigorous and filled with danger and there is no time for romance. Anja knows that Mikel, her fellow resistance worker, loves her. He would make a good husband and father for her son, but she doesn’t share his feelings. Is friendship enough?
Then American Peter Trent parachutes into her life. She must face facts—her heart did not die with her late husband and true love could be hers again. But marrying Mikel may be the only way she can save Peter.
Visit her website at www.booksbyanna.com or her blog at www.booksbyanna.wordpress.com.
Available at AMAZON
Discuss this book in the PUYB Virtual Book Club at Goodreads by clicking HERE.
Check-out the Simple Faith Tour Page for more tour stops.
5.18.2014
Uncovering Cobbogoth ~ Virtual Tour
Uncovering Cobbogoth
By Hannah L. Clark
Norah's world has just come undone yet again. With the murder of her Uncle Jack, 17 year old Norah is now a target. But what did Uncle Jack know that endangered not only his life but the lives of his friends and Norah?
This is a mystery that Norah needs to figure out...
The one person Norah thought she could count on - James Riley - is keeping secrets and Norah is convinced he knows something about her uncle's death. How could her one friend do this to her?
When the myths and legends that filled her uncle's lifework suddenly take on a new reality when Norah comes face to face with beings of this long forgotten ancient race. And Norah is the key to whom will triumph in an ancient struggle - a struggle that has nearly destroyed Cobbogoth. But before she can do that she must discover what secret James is keeping.
Uncovering Cobbogoth is an exciting story in which both danger and romance take a starring role. This book will appeal to those with a fondness for mythology. Hannah Clark has created a world that captures the imagination and believe me you'll want to visit it again. This is one literary trip that I was sorry to have end and I hope to have future trips into this world again with sequels.
I've always had a fondness for the Norse and Celtic myths and the works of Tolkien and Cobbogoth has just moved up to join the ranks. I have a new book that I need to purchase and add to my over-flowing bookcases! Thanks for grabbing and holding my attention Hannah!
I was provided a digital copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for my review and participation in this blog tour.
Hannah loves running, mythology, laughing, soulful bluegrass music, and growing things. Like her heroine, Norah, she is slightly inclined to believe that trees have souls.
To learn more about Hannah and the Cobbogoth series, visit www.cobbogoth.com.
Rebekah G. Shakespear lives with her husband and two sons in Texas. She received a double degree in Graphic-Web and Print Design from Henry Ford Community College in Michigan.
Bekah loves being a mom, photography, illustrating, refinishing furniture, organizing and being related to the author, for whom she has held a long abiding love and admiration for since before Hannah was even born.
“No. No, not that,” I croaked, guilt rushing through me for causing him more worry.The panic left his eyes, and he squinted at me.
I shuffled self-consciously. I knew I looked terrible. I’d been up crying half the night after my argument with Uncle Jack about James breaking my heart. Finally, I snuck out my window, climbed down my cherry tree, and headed to the fire station to see James.
“Hey, Riley! Cut the lights, man!”
James glanced back into the dark, communal bedroom where the rest of the night shift firefighters slept.
“Come here.” He took my hand, closed the bedroom door and, in stockinged feet, led me down the hall. A moment later, we were sitting side by side on the stairs. James still held my hand, and I hoped he’d never let go. I watched as he reached into his shirt pocket, fishing around until he found a piece of peppermint gum.
He offered me half. I shook my head, so he stuffed the whole thing in his mouth. Then he
turned those kind, piercing eyes on me.
Growing warm under his gaze, I cleared my throat. “I-I’m so sorry to wake you up,” I started. “I hoped you’d still be awake. It’s just . . .”
James mindlessly ran his thumb in circles over my knuckles. I lost my train of thought. Blinking, I took a deep breath and plunged on. “My uncle . . . he wants me to stop spending time with you. I mean, I can still help with Gram and everything, he just doesn’t want us hanging out any other time.” I sucked in another unsteady breath. “But I—I can’t let that happen, James. You’re my only friend.”
James was quiet for what seemed like forever. I prayed he wouldn’t just shrug his broad shoulders and shuffle back to bed.
To my relief, he reached up, rumpling his chocolate curls with his free hand. “Did he give you a reason why?” he asked, avoiding my eyes. I shook my head. “I think he’s afraid you’ll end up hurting me—that you’ll break my heart. You know how protective he is.”
He was silent again, this time longer.
Stupid, Norah! Why had I come here? Why did I think James would even care about this—that it would upset him at all?
Finally, James let out his breath. And the next moment, he was pressing the back of my hand to his lips.
I swallowed my shock. I’d never imagined that his lips could be so warm and soft. The contact sent a shock straight to my heart.
“What do you think?” James mumbled a moment later, still contemplating my hand. “Do you think I could hurt you?”
I wanted to burst into tears all over again. “I don’t think, James, I know. But it would be worth it.”
James chuckled this time, resting his forehead against my temple. “Now that’s a compliment.”
I smiled. Having him so close—smelling the fresh peppermint on his breath—was a fierce mixture of agony and ecstasy. They were feelings I’d never imagined I could feel.
“I’d never hurt you, Nor,” James whispered at last, and his breath tickled my neck. “Not really.”
By Hannah L. Clark
Norah's world has just come undone yet again. With the murder of her Uncle Jack, 17 year old Norah is now a target. But what did Uncle Jack know that endangered not only his life but the lives of his friends and Norah?
This is a mystery that Norah needs to figure out...
The one person Norah thought she could count on - James Riley - is keeping secrets and Norah is convinced he knows something about her uncle's death. How could her one friend do this to her?
When the myths and legends that filled her uncle's lifework suddenly take on a new reality when Norah comes face to face with beings of this long forgotten ancient race. And Norah is the key to whom will triumph in an ancient struggle - a struggle that has nearly destroyed Cobbogoth. But before she can do that she must discover what secret James is keeping.
Uncovering Cobbogoth is an exciting story in which both danger and romance take a starring role. This book will appeal to those with a fondness for mythology. Hannah Clark has created a world that captures the imagination and believe me you'll want to visit it again. This is one literary trip that I was sorry to have end and I hope to have future trips into this world again with sequels.
I've always had a fondness for the Norse and Celtic myths and the works of Tolkien and Cobbogoth has just moved up to join the ranks. I have a new book that I need to purchase and add to my over-flowing bookcases! Thanks for grabbing and holding my attention Hannah!
I was provided a digital copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for my review and participation in this blog tour.
Author Bio
Hannah L. Clark lives with her husband and their son in the Rocky Mountains. She has always known she would be a storyteller. In 2006 she graduated from Utah Valley University with a bachelor’s degree in English, and immediately began writing Uncovering Cobbogoth. Hannah loves running, mythology, laughing, soulful bluegrass music, and growing things. Like her heroine, Norah, she is slightly inclined to believe that trees have souls.
To learn more about Hannah and the Cobbogoth series, visit www.cobbogoth.com.
Rebekah G. Shakespear lives with her husband and two sons in Texas. She received a double degree in Graphic-Web and Print Design from Henry Ford Community College in Michigan.
Bekah loves being a mom, photography, illustrating, refinishing furniture, organizing and being related to the author, for whom she has held a long abiding love and admiration for since before Hannah was even born.
Connect with Hannah online
Website: www.hannahlclark.com
Book Excerpt
Nor? ” James rubbed the sleep from his eyes with the heel of his hand. One look at me,however, and he was wide awake. “What is it? Is it Gram?”“No. No, not that,” I croaked, guilt rushing through me for causing him more worry.The panic left his eyes, and he squinted at me.
I shuffled self-consciously. I knew I looked terrible. I’d been up crying half the night after my argument with Uncle Jack about James breaking my heart. Finally, I snuck out my window, climbed down my cherry tree, and headed to the fire station to see James.
“Hey, Riley! Cut the lights, man!”
James glanced back into the dark, communal bedroom where the rest of the night shift firefighters slept.
“Come here.” He took my hand, closed the bedroom door and, in stockinged feet, led me down the hall. A moment later, we were sitting side by side on the stairs. James still held my hand, and I hoped he’d never let go. I watched as he reached into his shirt pocket, fishing around until he found a piece of peppermint gum.
He offered me half. I shook my head, so he stuffed the whole thing in his mouth. Then he
turned those kind, piercing eyes on me.
Growing warm under his gaze, I cleared my throat. “I-I’m so sorry to wake you up,” I started. “I hoped you’d still be awake. It’s just . . .”
James mindlessly ran his thumb in circles over my knuckles. I lost my train of thought. Blinking, I took a deep breath and plunged on. “My uncle . . . he wants me to stop spending time with you. I mean, I can still help with Gram and everything, he just doesn’t want us hanging out any other time.” I sucked in another unsteady breath. “But I—I can’t let that happen, James. You’re my only friend.”
James was quiet for what seemed like forever. I prayed he wouldn’t just shrug his broad shoulders and shuffle back to bed.
To my relief, he reached up, rumpling his chocolate curls with his free hand. “Did he give you a reason why?” he asked, avoiding my eyes. I shook my head. “I think he’s afraid you’ll end up hurting me—that you’ll break my heart. You know how protective he is.”
He was silent again, this time longer.
Stupid, Norah! Why had I come here? Why did I think James would even care about this—that it would upset him at all?
Finally, James let out his breath. And the next moment, he was pressing the back of my hand to his lips.
I swallowed my shock. I’d never imagined that his lips could be so warm and soft. The contact sent a shock straight to my heart.
“What do you think?” James mumbled a moment later, still contemplating my hand. “Do you think I could hurt you?”
I wanted to burst into tears all over again. “I don’t think, James, I know. But it would be worth it.”
James chuckled this time, resting his forehead against my temple. “Now that’s a compliment.”
I smiled. Having him so close—smelling the fresh peppermint on his breath—was a fierce mixture of agony and ecstasy. They were feelings I’d never imagined I could feel.
“I’d never hurt you, Nor,” James whispered at last, and his breath tickled my neck. “Not really.”
About the Book
Norah Lukens needs to uncover the truth about the fabled lost city of Cobbogoth. After her
archaeologist uncle’s murder, Norah is asked to translate his old research journal for evidence and discovers that his murder was a cover-up for something far more sinister.
When she turns to neighbor and only friend James Riley for help, she realizes that not only is their bitter-sweet past haunting her every step, but James is keeping dangerous secrets. Can Norah discover what they are before its too late to share her own?
5.15.2014
100 Tough Questions about God and the Bible ~ Review
100 Tough Questions about
God and the Bible
by Stephen M. Miller
Let's be honest—the Bible can be hard to understand. It's full of weird laws, apparent inconsistencies, and tales of a God who often doesn't do what we expect. You may have asked about some of these things and been brushed off or given trite, unconvincing answers.
But serious questions deserve thoughtful responses, especially when opinions of Bible experts clash. Stephen M. Miller pulls insight from a wide range of Bible experts to report their answers to the toughquestions. He does so with a touch of humor and no preaching, allowing you to draw your own conclusions.
Questions include:
God and the Bible
by Stephen M. Miller
Everyone has questions about God and the Bible, even people who are skeptical. There are places where we just can't get a grasp of what the writer is trying to get across.
After all if we pray in faith why do the people we are praying for healing not get well? First off what kind of healing is being referenced? Is it physical? Spiritual? This is just one of the questions addressed in this book.
Just as these are tough questions not all answers are easy. Healing might be part of God's plan or it might have to be part of the life-after-death.
And what about Jonah? How could someone possibly live 3 days in the belly of a fish? Stephen Miller offers the arguments that are both for and against Jonah's fish tale.
And then what about Paul and the conflicting advice he gives in his letters? First off we don't know the questions that have been asked of Paul nor do we fully grasp the various cultures to whom he is ministering.
Stephen also addresses the issue of abortion and its volatile nature. He places the issue in its historical setting during the time of the Bible and the various thoughts concerning it at that time.
The various prophecies concerning Jesus and the "End Times" of Revelation are shown and touched on.
Though the questions are not necessarily answered in black-and-white one comes away with a better understanding of what is being questioned and wondered about. And more importantly one is given the means to figure out how to answer these questions by looking at the Bible, the scriptural context, the culture of the day, and even one's own personal beliefs. We can more fully appreciate God's gift of allowing us the freedom to choose, even if this choice is what drove us from Eden and the Garden.
This is a well-written book and it is sure to start many conversations as one presents these questions to those around us or as we offer up answers to the questions of others. This is a book that will make you stop and think and even ask more questions. It would be an interesting book for group study and debate.
I was provided a copy of this book by Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
Straightforward answers to questions
Christians and skeptics alike ask about God and the Bible
Let's be honest—the Bible can be hard to understand. It's full of weird laws, apparent inconsistencies, and tales of a God who often doesn't do what we expect. You may have asked about some of these things and been brushed off or given trite, unconvincing answers.
But serious questions deserve thoughtful responses, especially when opinions of Bible experts clash. Stephen M. Miller pulls insight from a wide range of Bible experts to report their answers to the toughquestions. He does so with a touch of humor and no preaching, allowing you to draw your own conclusions.
Questions include:
- Would a loving God really put a good man like Job through horrible suffering just to test his loyalty?
- If God knows everything, why did he test Abraham's faith by asking him to sacrifice his own son?
- How could there be just one God, yet three?
- Since Jesus told people to turn the other cheek, why aren't more Christians pacifists?
5.14.2014
Breath of Spring ~ Review
Breath of Spring
Seasons of the Heart
By Charlotte Hubbard
Willow Ridge is moving past the troubles that Hiram Knepp caused. They've embraced his two eldest daughters and offering them a home and means to support themselves. But Annie Mae can't believe that they are really free of her father and his manipulative ways. And she is worried about her three little brothers and her little sister.
Annie Mae wants to escape the worry, but is that possible?
Meanwhile her long-time neighbor Adam Wagler is wrestling with his own demons - a long hidden secret that has him keeping everyone at a distance.
Can these two hurting people be just what the other needs to find the peace and healing that they both desperately seek?
Breath of Spring is a follow-up to Winter of Wishes and An Amish Country Christmas and if you loved those books you won't be disappointed with a Breath of Spring. What I love about Charlotte Hubbard's books is that each book pulls a character from one of the other books who was in the background and makes them a central role.
Annie Mae and Adam are both like-able characters who you really feel for with what they are going through. Both of them grow through this book and it is a believable growth, not forced or contrived.
A Breath of Spring is just that and you won't be sorry to pick it up and read through the night.
I was provided a copy of this book through PUYB in conjunction with this virtual tour and in exchange for my honest review.
Seasons of the Heart
By Charlotte Hubbard
Willow Ridge is moving past the troubles that Hiram Knepp caused. They've embraced his two eldest daughters and offering them a home and means to support themselves. But Annie Mae can't believe that they are really free of her father and his manipulative ways. And she is worried about her three little brothers and her little sister.
Annie Mae wants to escape the worry, but is that possible?
Meanwhile her long-time neighbor Adam Wagler is wrestling with his own demons - a long hidden secret that has him keeping everyone at a distance.
Can these two hurting people be just what the other needs to find the peace and healing that they both desperately seek?
Breath of Spring is a follow-up to Winter of Wishes and An Amish Country Christmas and if you loved those books you won't be disappointed with a Breath of Spring. What I love about Charlotte Hubbard's books is that each book pulls a character from one of the other books who was in the background and makes them a central role.
Annie Mae and Adam are both like-able characters who you really feel for with what they are going through. Both of them grow through this book and it is a believable growth, not forced or contrived.
A Breath of Spring is just that and you won't be sorry to pick it up and read through the night.
I was provided a copy of this book through PUYB in conjunction with this virtual tour and in exchange for my honest review.
Book Spotlight
Title: Breath
of SpringAuthor:
Charlotte HubbardPublisher:
KensingtonPages:
352Genre: Amish
Romance/Inspirational
As
a bright season brings a fresh start to Willow Ridge, Annie Mae Knepp
feels she can never make peace with the past. Her disgraced ex-bishop
father is furious that she’s has taken her five siblings to live
with her. She’s never been truly at home in her faith…or
believing in herself. And Annie Mae fears no man will want to take on
the responsibilities she’s gladly shouldered. True, her quiet
neighbor Adam Wagler has been steadfast and unshakable, helping her
through her trials, but he surely couldn’t think of someone so lost
as more than a friend. Believing she is unworthy because of her
doubts, Annie Mae will find, in a moment of surprising revelation,
that God can work impossible miracles—and that love makes all
things new.
About the Author
I’ve
called Missouri home for most of my life, and most folks don’t
realize that several Old Older Amish and Mennonite communities make
their home here, as well. The rolling pastureland, woods, and small
towns along county highways make a wonderful setting for Plain
populations—and for stories about them, too! While Jamesport,
Missouri is the largest Old Order Amish settlement west of the
Mississippi River, other communities have also found the affordable
farm land ideal for raising crops, livestock, and running the small
family-owned businesses that support their families.
Like
my heroine, Miriam Lantz, of my Seasons of the Heart series, I love
to feed people—to share my hearth and home. I bake bread and
goodies and I love to try new recipes. I put up jars and jars of
green beans, tomatoes, beets and other veggies every summer. All my
adult life, I’ve been a deacon, a dedicated church musician and
choir member, and we hosted a potluck group in our home for more than
twenty years.
Like
Abby Lambright, heroine of my Home at Cedar Creek series, I consider
it a personal mission to be a listener and a peacemaker—to heal
broken hearts and wounded souls. Faith and family, farming and
frugality matter to me: like Abby, I sew and enjoy fabric arts—I
made my wedding dress and the one Mom wore, too, when I married into
an Iowa farm family more than thirty-five years ago! When I’m not
writing, I crochet and sew, and I love to travel.
I
recently moved to Minnesota when my husband got a wonderful new job,
so now he and I and our border collie, Ramona, are exploring our new
state and making new friends.
Connect on Facebook
Available on Amazon
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5.11.2014
Fatal Exchange ~ Review
Fatal Exchange
Southern Crimes 2
By Lisa Harris
Though Emily Hunt has never wanted to be a cop, her life is full of them. Her father, her sister, her late brother, and her ex-fiance. The life of a cop is too intense and the constant threats are more than she thinks she can handle. Today is about to find out if what she always supposed is true.
Mason Taylor was Michael Hunt's best friend and he's had feelings for Michael's little sister from the moment he met her. But when Michael was murdered Mason became the lead suspect in the opinion of Avery, Michael's other sister. Today Mason is about to become Emily's lifeline when a situation puts her in harms way.
Rafael's beating the odds. He's making the grades, keeping out of trouble, and going to college until today. His brother is being held for ransom and time is running out to find the money being demanded. Today is the day that will determine the rest of Rafael's life.
Rafael is desperate to find the money to save his brother's life, desperate enough to take his classroom hostage and demand the money he needs. But is he desperate enough to carry out his threats to shoot and kill his classmates? Emily's had training for situations like this, but when a student actually takes the class hostage a teacher has to deal with not only their own fears but those of all her students. Can she talk Rafael down and diffuse the situation?
Something is wrong and there is more than meets the eye in Fatal Exchange and someone won't be walking away from this one. The main story takes place over one day and it packs a lot of intensity into what is an tense and potentially explosive situation.
Fatal Exchange focuses on family and the importance of one's family in one's life. Emily's had a loving supportive family all her life. While Mason's family lacked greatly and he is dealing with the issue of his father's absence. If your family was in trouble what would you do? This is the issue facing Emily, Mason, and Rafael and there is no simple answer. Would you take a life to save your family?
This is the second book in the Southern Crimes series and while Avery and Jackson are in this book they aren't the central figures as they were in book one Dangerous Passage. But Fatal Exchange does not lack in the suspense department and it is nice to get to know another member of the Hunt family and to learn more about the man Avery blames for her brother's death.
If you like a good clean book, you will love this romantic suspense from Lisa Harris. And this will be a book you won't want to put down. This is the kind of book you'll stay up into the early morning hours just to finish it, which I did. And you may be tempted to bring to a birthday party to read while the presents are being opened (which doesn't work to well if you are the present opener!).
I was provided a copy of this book by Revell in exchange for my honest review.
About the Book:
Though Emily Hunt comes from a family of cops, the relatively quiet life of a high school teacher suits her just fine. She's saving up to buy a house, slowly moving forward after her brother's death, and settling into a life she loves. So the last person she wants to spend time with is Mason Taylor.
An undercover cop, Mason is enemy number one as far as her family is concerned. His involvement in the death of Emily's brother is still up in the air, and now he expects her to help him with a case. Mason has been working with one of her students, Rafael Cerda, whose brother has been kidnapped by a drug cartel. And with time running out to meet their demands, Rafael is getting desperate.
Emily will have to draw on all of her strength to handle what happens next . . .
Southern Crimes 2
By Lisa Harris
Though Emily Hunt has never wanted to be a cop, her life is full of them. Her father, her sister, her late brother, and her ex-fiance. The life of a cop is too intense and the constant threats are more than she thinks she can handle. Today is about to find out if what she always supposed is true.
Mason Taylor was Michael Hunt's best friend and he's had feelings for Michael's little sister from the moment he met her. But when Michael was murdered Mason became the lead suspect in the opinion of Avery, Michael's other sister. Today Mason is about to become Emily's lifeline when a situation puts her in harms way.
Rafael's beating the odds. He's making the grades, keeping out of trouble, and going to college until today. His brother is being held for ransom and time is running out to find the money being demanded. Today is the day that will determine the rest of Rafael's life.
Rafael is desperate to find the money to save his brother's life, desperate enough to take his classroom hostage and demand the money he needs. But is he desperate enough to carry out his threats to shoot and kill his classmates? Emily's had training for situations like this, but when a student actually takes the class hostage a teacher has to deal with not only their own fears but those of all her students. Can she talk Rafael down and diffuse the situation?
Something is wrong and there is more than meets the eye in Fatal Exchange and someone won't be walking away from this one. The main story takes place over one day and it packs a lot of intensity into what is an tense and potentially explosive situation.
Fatal Exchange focuses on family and the importance of one's family in one's life. Emily's had a loving supportive family all her life. While Mason's family lacked greatly and he is dealing with the issue of his father's absence. If your family was in trouble what would you do? This is the issue facing Emily, Mason, and Rafael and there is no simple answer. Would you take a life to save your family?
This is the second book in the Southern Crimes series and while Avery and Jackson are in this book they aren't the central figures as they were in book one Dangerous Passage. But Fatal Exchange does not lack in the suspense department and it is nice to get to know another member of the Hunt family and to learn more about the man Avery blames for her brother's death.
If you like a good clean book, you will love this romantic suspense from Lisa Harris. And this will be a book you won't want to put down. This is the kind of book you'll stay up into the early morning hours just to finish it, which I did. And you may be tempted to bring to a birthday party to read while the presents are being opened (which doesn't work to well if you are the present opener!).
I was provided a copy of this book by Revell in exchange for my honest review.
About the Book:
Desperate times create desperate people. And desperate people are dangerous . . .
Though Emily Hunt comes from a family of cops, the relatively quiet life of a high school teacher suits her just fine. She's saving up to buy a house, slowly moving forward after her brother's death, and settling into a life she loves. So the last person she wants to spend time with is Mason Taylor.
An undercover cop, Mason is enemy number one as far as her family is concerned. His involvement in the death of Emily's brother is still up in the air, and now he expects her to help him with a case. Mason has been working with one of her students, Rafael Cerda, whose brother has been kidnapped by a drug cartel. And with time running out to meet their demands, Rafael is getting desperate.
Emily will have to draw on all of her strength to handle what happens next . . .
5.10.2014
Knowing God by Name ~ Review
Knowing God by Name:
Names of God That Bring Hope and Healing
Names of God That Bring Hope and Healing
by David Wilkerson
(Repackaged Edition)
Have you ever wanted a greater understanding of God and the different names by which He is called throughout Bible? And why does God have so many names?
“Our help is in the name of the Lord.”—Psalm 124:8
Have you ever wanted a greater understanding of God and the different names by which He is called throughout Bible? And why does God have so many names?
The names by which God is known are more than just a nickname like we have. The names of God correspond directly to a specific attribute of God.
Immanuel means God with us. But what does that mean for us, for me? God is with us at all times. He made an oath to be there for us and He is faithful to keep His word.
Jehovah Shammah means The Lord is There, we are known by God's presence in us and upon us. We will be able to discern the difference between what is of God and what is of the world. We will be able tell in our heart when a person is filled with God.
There are a total of 10 names of God covered in this book. There are scriptural references that explain and help one fully understand each name/attribute of God. This book is written in terms that anyone can easily grasp and understand. This is a book that would make a perfect gift for a new Christian. It would also be an excellent small group study. Get ready to learn about God as you never have before!
I was provided a copy of this book by Chosen in exchange for my honest review.
About the Book:
In the Bible, God is called by many names. But what do they mean? And what do they reveal about Him? Can knowing these names bring the comfort, hope or healing you are seeking?
Through Bible teaching and personal anecdotes, bestselling author and beloved pastor David Wilkerson explores ten Hebrew names for God, showing how men and women throughout Scripture found strength and encouragement in the powerful name of the Lord. So can you! This life-changing book will help you know your heavenly Father on a heart-to-heart level, revealing His protection, care, discipline and loving guidance in your life.
God has pledged to keep you, to give you His peace, to give you His Holy Spirit, to blot out all your sins and to replace them with His loving kindness. Here is your invitation to experience each of these realities—in other words, to know God by name.
Through Bible teaching and personal anecdotes, bestselling author and beloved pastor David Wilkerson explores ten Hebrew names for God, showing how men and women throughout Scripture found strength and encouragement in the powerful name of the Lord. So can you! This life-changing book will help you know your heavenly Father on a heart-to-heart level, revealing His protection, care, discipline and loving guidance in your life.
God has pledged to keep you, to give you His peace, to give you His Holy Spirit, to blot out all your sins and to replace them with His loving kindness. Here is your invitation to experience each of these realities—in other words, to know God by name.
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