The Return ~ Review

The Return
An Amish Beginnings Novel #3
By Suzanne Fisher Woods

The Return continues the story of the early days of Stoney Ridge and this chapter is set, for the majority of the story, in 1763. For those who enjoyed the story of Anna Konig and Bairn Bauer and the journey that brought them together aboard the Charming Nancy and to the New World, this is the third book in their story. Time has passed and not only have they married, they have a daughter Tessa, who is on the threshold of womanhood and all the anguish that that entails. Tessa Bauer has a decided personality that once set on a particular path is hard to detour to a better one. Fortunately or not she speaks her mind and often to the dismay of her mother and those around her

Tessa Bauer has long sought the attentions of Hams Johann Bauer to no avail. Hans' heart has been captured by Betsy Zook, a new arrival to the New World and Pennsylvania. Tessa has an admirer whom as a child offended her and unfortunately for him, Tessa's good opinion (much like Mr. Darcy's) once lost is likely to be forever lost. But Martin Gingerich is not easily dissuaded to Tessa's annoyance.

But when an Indian raid occurs, many who lived outside of the Stoney Ridge settlement are slaughtered or captured. And Betsy Zook is among those who are taken. Those of Stoney Ridge are shocked and saddened by the news and to Hans disgust are unwilling to take action against those who perpetrated this savage attack.

The Return is a story told from two vastly different viewpoint - that of those in Stoney Ridge (particularly Tessa) and that of Betsy as she lives among a people who are much more than savages. But hatred is a two edged sword that thrusts both ways with tragic consequences often for those who are innocent. This was a world in turmoil as the old and new tried to establish a balance and protect what they believed was theirs.

I really believe that this series Amish Beginnings is one that anyone who has a love of historical fiction would enjoy (even someone who is not into Amish fiction). There is a depth to this story that will make one stop and think. Hate and the thirst for vengeance is examined along with its tragic and costly ending - a timely book no matter what year it is.

Of note - if you have not read the previous books in the series that is not a problem as one can quite easily read this book on its own without the backstory. Either way, this is an excellent book that should not be missed.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher Revell with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

About the Book:

In a wild country, the true 

cost of love may be 

more than they can bear

Beautiful and winsome, Betsy Zook never questioned her family's rigid expectations, nor those of devoted Hans--but then she never had to. Not until the night she's taken captive in a surprise Indian raid. Facing brutality and hardship, Betsy finds herself torn between her pious upbringing and the feelings she's developing for a native man who encourages her to see God in all circumstances. 

Greatly anguished by Betsy's captivity, Hans turns to Tessa Bauer for comfort. She responds eagerly, overlooking troubling signs of Hans's hunger for revenge. But if Betsy is ever restored to the Amish, will things between Hans and Tessa have gone too far? 

Inspired by true events, this deeply layered novel gives a glimpse into the tumultuous days of pre-revolutionary Pennsylvania through the eyes of two young, determined, and faith-filled women.

To Wager Her Heart ~ Review

To Wager Her Heart
A Belle Meade Plantation Novel #3
By Tamera Alexander

1871, Tennesse is not an easy place to live. The War between the States has left many with a bitterness in their hearts and a distrust of those without Southern roots. And it is to this world that Sylas Rutledge finds himself trying to build his railroad future. But Sylas has one big problem in getting investors - he's from Colorado. His other problem doesn't understand Southern society and the convoluted manners that go with securing business success.

Sylas needs help and he thinks Miss Alexandra Jamison may be the perfect person to teach him the manners he needs. But Alexandra has problems of her own - she has determined that she needs to make her own way and to make a difference. And her determination has led her to Fisk University - a school for freedmen. Alexandra's choice is one most frowned upon - no proper Southern lady of a good name would ever teach former slaves. But with her father determined to see her married to a man that she wants nothing to do with Alexandra sees little choice in the matter.

Can two more unlikely people forge a partnership that could change their world as they know it? With help from unexpected sources, they both may find what they have been seeking - love, honor and the truth.

I'll be honest this is the first book by Tamera Alexander that I have ever read, but the cover caught my attention and then description intrigued me.  The idea of a freedman's university in the South shortly after the Civil War was something I had never heard of and I wanted to learn more about this pertinent information that was somehow lacking in my history books.

Well, I was not disappointed in this book and the author's notes following the story explaining the historical aspects of the story were greatly appreciated.  Learning about Fisk University and the Jubilee Singers was such an added bonus, one that will touch the heart. 

Though it is the third book in the Belle Meade Plantation series I found this book easy to follow and was not at a loss from not reading the previous books in the series (though after reading this book I would like to read the first 2 books).  I highly recommend this book regardless of your previous experience with this author - it is well worth your time.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher through the BookLook blogger program with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.


About the Book:
Can a railroad man and a Southern Belle turned teacher find a way to work together to achieve their dreams in the new reality of the post-Civil War South?

Sylas Rutledge, former gambler and new owner of the East Line Railway, invests everything he has into this venture, partly to see if he can do it—but mostly to avenge his father. One man holds the key to the railway’s success—General William Giles Harding of Nashville’s Belle Meade Plantation. But Harding is champagne and thoroughbreds, and Sylas Rutledge is beer and bullocks. Sy needs someone to help him maneuver in high society, and when he meets Alexandra Donelson, he quickly decides he’s found his tutor.

Spurning her family’s wishes that she marry, Alexandra Donelson is pursuing her passion for teaching at Fisk University, the first freedmen’s university in the United States. But her family does not approve, and ultimately, her father expels her from the family home and cuts her off completely.

Through her friendship with Mary Harding, Alexandra is thrown together with both General Harding and Sylas Rutledge. And she soon finds herself falling in love with a man whose roguish qualities and adventuresome spirit smack more of recklessness than responsibility.

Sylas Rutledge will risk everything to win the hand of the woman he loves. What he doesn’t count on is having to wager her heart to do it.

Set at Nashville’s historic Belle Meade Plantation, To Wager Her Heart is a sweeping Southern love story about a nation mending after war, the struggle to move a country forward, and the courage of a man and woman to see themselves for who they truly are—and can be—with each other.

The Blessing ~ Review

The Blessing
Amish Cooking Class #2
By Wanda E. Brunstetter

The Blessing is the second book in the Amish Cooking Class series and Heidi Troyer is trying to decide if she wants to offer a second six lesson cooking class. She and her husband Lyle are anticipating the arrival of their soon-to-be adopted baby and Heidi wants to be sure to have plenty of time for their long desired baby. But Heidi decides to offer a second class (if she didn't the series would need a different name) for reasons not to be revealed in this review. And various characters from the first book make an appearance in this book (in case you are wondering).

With six new students, Heidi has a new round of people to whom she can minister. And believe me, they all can use a little help with the various situations they find themselves in at present. But these students are a tad more difficult than Heidi's first group and there seem to be tensions between her students that hint at their need for her special brand of care.

Overall this is a fine story, though the reader could potentially get lost in the various character viewpoints that the book jumps between. But those familiar with Wanda's writing should be fine in story navigation department. For those new to Wanda Brunstetter's world if you haven't read her previous book in this series don't worry as you'll easily get brought up to speed as the backstory is referenced throughout. I personally enjoyed the first book over this book but I still found this one to be an enjoyable read while waiting in the car. (Yes, I'm one of those people who always has a book or two with me at all times.)

Of note, if you are so included to sample some Amish recipes for yourself the recipes that Heidi teaches in her class are included in the back of the book along with some discussion questions.  

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Jane of Austin ~ Review

Jane of Austin
A Novel of Sweet Tea and Sensibility
By Hillary Manton Lodge

If you are looking for a modern twist on Jane Austen look no further than Jane of Austin which is a delightful mix of classic Austen and modern living. And this fun excursion has a move from California to Texas as Sense and Sensibility gets a modern day update.

The Woodward sisters Celia, Jane, and Margot are on their own - their mother died years ago and their father has left them to their own devices after he was caught up in a scandal involving finances that weren't his own. And the Woodward sisters are still dealing with the scandal of being associated with their father.

Celia had every hope of marriage to a man she was in love with when suddenly everything was off. Jane and Margot can't figure out what happened, especially as Ted seemed like a perfect part of their family already.

And the tea shop run by Celia and Jane is a popular endeavor that is doing better every day. But when the property changes hands Valencia Street Teas is in need of a new home.

All these changes prompt a move from the California Bay area to Austin Texas thanks to the generosity of a cousin. Ian Vandermeide offers his young cousins a chance to make a new home for themselves and their business while providing lodging in his guesthouse.

But Jane's misgivings soon evaporate when the handsome and dashing Sean Willis comes to her assistance and proceeds to sweep off her feet. (Marianne Dashwood would highly approve, I'm sure)

Also, lodging with Ian is Callum Beckett, a man who is suffering from a multitude of losses. Callum has lost his father, brother, and his military career (due to his injury) - all of which have brought him back home to Texas. But Callum isn't one to let his loss define him and he is determined to move past the pain. Something about Jane that catches his eye - unfortunately, she seems drawn to Sean and Callum knows that his injury would have kept him from coming to Janes aid if he had been the one to come across her in need.

But in true Austen fashion, there are twists along the way that reveal that first impressions aren't always reliable. And the end result is a satisfying one that will leave the reader in appreciation of the author's ability to combine an Austen classic with the modern world. It is fun to pick out lines and phrases that are straight from Jane Austen's work.  And as an added bonus as you read there are fun recipes to try (scones, cakes, tea, and Frito pie!!) Get ready for some tea reading fun with this delightful book (Be sure you have a pot of tea ready to pour as you make your way through this book)

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher through Blogging for Books with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.



About the Book:

“Know your own happiness. You want nothing but patience ― 

or give it a more fascinating name, call it hope.” 

― Jane Austen, Sense and Sensibility

Just a few years after their father’s business scandal shatters their lives, Jane and Celia Woodward find themselves forced out of their San Francisco tea shop. The last thing Jane wants is to leave their beloved shop on Valencia Street, but when Celia insists on a move to Austin, Texas, the sisters pack up their kid sister Margot and Jane’s tea plants, determined to start over yet again.

But life in Austin isn’t all sweet tea and breakfast tacos. Their unusual living situation is challenging and unspoken words begin to fester between Jane and Celia. When Jane meets and falls for up-and-coming musician Sean Willis, the chasm grows deeper.

While Sean seems to charm everyone in his path, one person is immune – retired Marine Captain Callum Beckett. Callum never meant to leave the military, but the twin losses of his father and his left leg have returned him to the place he least expected—Texas.

In this modern spin on the Austen classic, Sense and Sensibility, the Woodward sisters must contend with new ingredients in unfamiliar kitchens, a dash of heartbreak, and the fragile hope that maybe home isn't so far away.

About the Author:

Hillary Manton Lodge is the author of Plain Jayne, a Carol Award Finalist, and Simply Sara, an ECPA best-selling book. A graduate of the University of Oregon’s School of Journalism, Hillary discovered the world of cuisine during her internship at Northwest Palate magazine. A storyteller at heart, in her free time she enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, watching foreign films, and exploring new walking trails. She and her husband live in Portland, Oregon.

Gathering the Threads ~ Review

Gathering the Threads
The Amish of Summer Grove #3
By Cindy Woodsmall

Ariana dreamed and longed to return home to the life and family she had always known. A life that was taken away from her by the parents she didn't know. But her time away has changed her - opening her eyes see her once beloved life differently. And even more unsettling Skylar the young woman with whom she was mixed-up is still living with the Brenneman family.

Skylar isn't ready to leave the Brennemans and return to her old life. She hasn't embraced the Amish lifestyle yet some aspects have helped her as she fought her addictions. But Ariana's return threatens the peace that Skylar is discovering.

As Ariana struggles to once again find her place she has to deal with the suspicions of others within her community. Her ties with her Englisch family are cause for concern as is her re-established friendship with Quill Schlabach. Can Ariana be true to who she really is and the truths that she discovered about God? Or will she allow the pressures of her old life to suppress and constrict her new thoughts?

Gathering the Threads is the concluding book in the Amish of Summer Grove trilogy. This book continues the look at family and what is more important in making a family - blood or love. It is also a study in how belief determines how we react to others and their beliefs. I find it interesting how Ariana's siblings treat her upon her return as compared to her parents, especially her Daed. 

I think one could most definitely describe this as an emotional book - not that it causes the reader to go through a range of emotions or even to get emotional. Rather this book expresses a range of emotions as the various characters work through their hopes and their fears. 

If you haven't read the first two books in the series you can get a quick synopsis at the beginning of the book and enjoy the story that is found within these covers. However, if you read the first two books you'll more fully appreciate what Skylar and Ariana are confronting when there are each presented with their new biological identities. I mean, who wouldn't have an issue or two to learn that you aren't quite whom you always thought yourself as being. 

The book and series conclude in a satisfying manner though I wouldn't have minded another book in the series (or another 100 pages or so in this book). If you're looking for a vacation read give this one a try. This book (and series) would be an excellent choice for a book club selection. 

I was provided a review ARC (advanced reviewer copy) of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.



About the Book:

Finally back in the Old Order Amish world she loves,

Will Ariana’s new perspectives draw her family closer together—

or completely rip them apart?

After months away in the Englisch world, Ariana Brenneman is overjoyed to be in the Old Order Amish home where she was raised. Yet her excitement is mixed with an unexpected apprehension as she reconciles all she’s learned from her biological parents with the uncompromising teachings of her Plain community. Although her childhood friend, ex-Amish Quill Schlabach, hopes to help her navigate her new role amongst her people, Ariana’s Daed doesn’t understand why his sweet daughter is suddenly questioning his authority. What will happen if she sows seeds of unrest and rebellion in the entire family?  
 
Meanwhile, Skylar Nash has finally found her place among the large Brenneman family, but Ariana’s arrival threatens to unravel Skylar’s new identity—and her sobriety. Both Ariana and Skylar must discover the true cords that bind a family and community together and grasp tight the One who holds their authentic identities close to His heart. 
 
Gathering the Threads is the third and final novel in The Amish of Summer Grove series.

A Spoonful of Grace ~ Spotlight with Giveaway

Book Details:

Book Title:  A Spoonful of Grace: Mealtime Blessings in Bite-sized Pieces
​Category:   Christian Living; 444 pages
​Genre:  Family devotional, Children's devotional
Publisher:  Credo House Publishers
Release date:  Feb 2017
Tour dates:  Aug 7 to 25, 2017
Content Rating:  G

Book Description:

Just 2 minutes each day can change your family meal time for a lifetime.

A Spoonful of Grace is a collection of 366 evening meal graces taken from all 66 books of the Bible and designed to provide meaningful exposure to prayer and the Bible at a most opportune time: the family evening meal.

The Scripture/grace devotions are inviting, can be grasped at several levels, and are brief enough (about two minutes) to hold the attention of hungry kids. Here's why:

• Each day has an application section called Grace Notes: ideas and quotes to further illustrate the message and stimulate conversation.
• Sundays are for Story Graces. These 52 devotions are a bit longer to afford the suspenseful, engrossing reading of stories such as David and Goliath, Daniel in the lions’ den, and Jonah and the big fish.
• Special Graces are celebrations such as  Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, birthdays.
• Each grace:
  • Supports discussions of God’s attributes and of faith-based values, offering moral examples like forgiveness, friendship, honesty, trust, even table manners.
  • Creates curiosity about the Bible and ways in which Scripture can be applied to today’s issues.
  • Demonstrates how the act of praying together lifts one’s own spirit; fosters praise; and increases mutual feelings of appreciation, gratefulness, and accountability.
  • Teaches without overt instruction, similar to hiding extra veggies in the spaghetti sauce.
  • Remind us that our food, as well as God’s countless other daily blessings, is a gift.

Endorsements for "A Spoonful of Grace": 

“The dining room table is a key place to connect with your children.  It's time to put down the phones and pick up this book instead.” --Arlene Pellicane, speaker and author of “31 Days to Becoming a Happy Mom”

"...beautiful, winsome and creative...will spark meaningful discussion and thoughtful reflection. This book will nourish both heart and mind.”--Dr. Mark L. Strauss, Vice-Chair, The NIV Committee on Bible Translation and University Professor of New Testament, Bethel Seminary

"Annette Hubbell has made this powerful family life rhythm and tradition SO MUCH EASIER!  Give your family the gift that will last for generations to come—‘A Spoonful of Grace!’” --Pam Farrel, author of 45 books including best-selling “Men Are Like Waffles, Women Are Like Spaghetti,” “10 Best Decisions a Parent Can Make”, and “A Couple’s Journey with God.”

"Wonderfully composed and chock-full of wit and wisdom. I wish I’d had this book when my husband and I were raising our four children.” --Susan Meissner, Award-winning author of “Secrets of a Charmed Life”Watch the book trailer:

Buy the Book:
Amazon ~ ChristianBook  ~ Barnes and Noble
Add on Goodreads
​

​

Meet the Author:

Annette Hubbell earned her undergraduate degree in Marketing from San Diego State University, her M.B.A. from Cal State University in San Marcos, and a Certificate in Christian Apologetics from Biola University.  She has been featured in over 160 performances and starred in the DVD, “Witness to Gettysburg” edited by 33-time Emmy Award winner, Robert Gardner. She was awarded Presenter of the Year twice at the Civil War Round Table of San Diego and is a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR).

Hubbell lives in San Diego, California with her husband of 33 years, Monte. They have a daughter, Amy. She and her husband Scott live in Los Angeles, California. For more information, visit www.AnnetteHubbell.com or www.SpoonfulOfGrace.com.

Connect with the Author: Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Youtube

BOOK SPOTLIGHT TOUR SCHEDULE:

Aug 7 -   Working Mommy Journal - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 7 -   Everyday Gyaan - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 7 -   Reading Authors - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 8 -   Blooming with Books - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 8 -   Library of Clean Reads - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 9 -   Paulette's Papers - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 9 -   I Love A Good Book - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 10 - A Mama's Corner of the World - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 11 - Reviews in the City - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 11 - Rockin' Book Reviews - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 14 - StoreyBook Reviews - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 14 - Cheryl's Book Nook - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 15 - Cindy's Notebook - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 15 - Rainy Day Reviews - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 15 - This Mom's Delight - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 16 - My Journey Back - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 16 - Reviews by Martha's Bookshelf - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 17 - T's Stuff - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 18 - Laura's Interests - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 20 - Writers and Authors - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 21 - My Life. One Story at a Time - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 22 - Bless Their Hearts Mom - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 22 - The Autistic Gamer - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 23 - Seasons of Opportunities - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 24 - Deal Sharing Aunt - book spotlight / giveaway
Aug 25 - Books for Books - book spotlight
Aug 25 - Celticlady's Reviews -  book spotlight / giveaway

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The Promise of Breeze Hill ~ Review

The Promise of Breeze Hill
A Natchez Trace Novel #1
By Pam Hillman

If there is one thing for certain it is that the Natchez Trace is dangerous and Isabella Bartholomew's family knows this. With the murder of her brother and a fire that has incapacitated her father Isabella needs help with their plantation. And fortunately, she is able to secure the skills of Connor O'Shea.

And unfortunately for Connor O'Shea, Isabella Bartholomew bought his papers of indenture. The last thing he wants is to find himself working for a lady of property who will again ruin his life on a whim. But Connor needs the work to bring his brothers over from Ireland.

Connor's carpentry skills are just what Isabella needs to repair the damage done to her home. But Breeze Hill Plantation needs much more than a rebuilt wing. And Connor finds himself filling a much larger role than what he had agreed to. And spending more time with Isabella is not high on his list of tasks but her father has allowed her to assume much of his responsibility in his stead.

But soon the danger, that targeted travelers, seems to be focused on Breeze Hill and the Bartholomew family. Is there a reason they've targeted and were their past mishaps instead a deliberate attempt to destroy them?

The Promise of Breeze Hill is an interesting book with a few unexpected twists along the way. This book deals with various issues including loyalty, family, and slavery all of which were of utmost importance in how this story played out. Some characters one is instantly drawn to while others are almost instantly disliked and believe me the dislike factor doesn't abate as the story unfolds. As a series starting point, I'm interested to see where this series goes. And in case you're wondering this story does not end in a cliffhanger and in and of itself is complete.

This book would be an excellent choice for a book club and there are discussion questions included after the story as is a note by the author giving a bit of historical background concerning the setting. And those who have a fondness for early American history will enjoy this book. And if you were to judge a book by its cover this one is lovely, by the way.

Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book with the expectations of a positive review. All expressed opinions are my own.

About the Book:
Natchez, MS; 1791
Anxious for his brothers to join him on the rugged frontier along the Mississippi River, Connor O’Shea has no choice but to indenture himself as a carpenter in exchange for their passage from Ireland. But when he’s sold to Isabella Bartholomew of Breeze Hill Plantation, Connor fears he’ll repeat past mistakes and vows not to be tempted by the lovely lady.

The responsibilities of running Breeze Hill have fallen on Isabella’s shoulders after her brother was found dead in the swamps along the Natchez Trace and a suspicious fire devastated their crops, almost destroyed their home, and left her father seriously injured. Even with Connor’s help, Isabella fears she’ll lose her family’s plantation. Despite her growing feelings for the handsome Irish carpenter, she seriously considers accepting her wealthy and influential neighbor’s proposal of marriage.

Soon, though, Connor realizes someone is out to eliminate the Bartholomew family. Can he set aside his own feelings to keep Isabella safe?