Love of Family

I decided to read Cindy Woodsmall and Erin Woodsmall's latest Amish novel, "Until Then," anticipating the usual Amish love story. But this was not the usual. At first, I even thought this dealt more with the afterlife. Then it became apparent it was a time-split historical novel that felt more like time travel. Vin and Celeste belong to an Old Order Amish Sect who frown upon artist work. Vin feels compelled to be himself and create his sketches of everyday life. Then one evening, as Vin takes some time to pray and do soul searching, he falls into a ravine. When he wakes up he does not know where he is. This begins Vin's journey to return to Celeste praying daily "May you use my time as you desire" and the people he meets who help him and how he helps them changing their future. For Celeste, she tries to cope with the lost of Vin and disparaging remarks made by the community. A must read for Amish fans as this is very different from most Amish stories.

Tea for the Soul

Sally Clarkson has written a wonderful new book entitled "Teatime Discipleship - Sharing Faith One Cup at a Time." The author reads the audio version of the book in a soothing voice making the experience so relaxing, so inspiring. So much so, I purchased the hardcopy version of the book to enjoy the beautiful picures and recipes. The book is divided into sections: devotional, scripture, short practice suggestions, and recipes. The devotions are shared stories from the authors life offering insight to a faith well lived. I agree with the author's comment about celebrating the life the Lord has given us. And this book provides ways of celebrating that life with a cup of tea. I received a complimentary copy of this audio book from Net Gallery and was under no obligation to post a review.

All Things Egyptian

Jocelyn Green does a wonderful job inviting the reader into the world of Egyptology through her protagonist, Lauren Westlake, in "The Metropolitan Affair." Dr. Lauren Westlake has worked hard earning her degree in Egyptology and obtaining a job at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. However, her one desire is to have a relationship with her father fulfilling her dream of going to Egypt with him. Then, out of the blue, her father offers a chance to join him on an archaeological trip to Egypt. But something holds her back from agreeing to go with him. In the meantime, an old friend, Joe Caravello, now a detective, seeks her out for help in solving art forger case, in particular, Egypt art pieces. Can their combined wits solve who the forger is? And can Lauren find a way to rebuild a relationship with her father? Suspense and mystery abound in this fast paced novel. It was hard to put the book down! I can not wait for the second installment!

Stepping Out in Faith

To be resilent one must first feel safe. For many safety comes in many different shapes or forms, especially those who are trauma victims. Aundi Kilber is a trauma survivor. She has taken what she has learned and put it to work as a counselor and now in the book, "Strong Like Water." Kolber explains how the sympathetic nervous system, ventral vagal system, dorasal vagal system and parasympathetic system work and how this relates to the trauma victim's reactions and feelings to the past and present. She provides insight as well as resources while doing it with a Biblical focus. I especially liked her comment that we all need support-lifelines, internally and externally, seen in the form of prayer or just having someone to talk with in a loving community. Counselors, medical personal, community people will find a wealth of helpful information within the pages of this book to be released in 2023.

Angel Inspiration

For fans of Roma Downey, you will not want to miss this devotional entitled "Be an Angel:Devotions to Inspire and Encourage Love and Light Along the Way." There are 52 devotions divided into categories such as gratitude, loss, joy, change, grace. At the end of each devotion is a "Be an Angel" prompt that provides an exercise to provoke a deeper understanding of the passage just read. The devotions are inspirational with most of them relating to some aspect of Roma Downey's life. I found the passages to be uplifting and encouraging. So if you are looking for a devotional and are a "Touched by an Angel" fan, then this is just the book for you! To be released in 2023 by Convergent Books.

Triumph over Tragedy

Meet Amish school teacher Lisa Miller who is dedicated to teaching her young students. As a seven-year-old she lost her parents and paternal grandparents in an accident in Indiana and came to live with her maternal grandparents in Ohio. Lisa has built a wall around herself as protection because she fears losing those she loves. But that may change if newcomer Paul Herschberger has anything to say about it and discover his secret. Readers are reunited with Orley Troyer and his wife as well at their antique shop where they offer words of wisdom and encouragement to Paul. Follow this romance in Wanda Brunstetter’s newest novel in the Creektown Discoveries Series, “Sugarcreek Surprise.” I received a copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to review and all opinions are mine.

Woman Warrior

Mary Davis did an awesome job in writing “Mrs. Witherspoon Goes to War.” I was intrigued about the WASP (Women Airforce Service Pilots) service during WWII. There were many levels of interest in this book about Peggy Witherspoon, a WASP, a mother, a wife, and a friend. Her level of commitment is to be commended along with the selfless act of wanting to recue three soldiers being held captive in Cuba. In addition, I liked how the author presented the difference between men and women serving our country during WWII and the attitude many men had about the women. Peggy is a role model to girls and young women to be what God wants you to be. She didn’t think God was listening, but when Peggy felt the nudge to step out in faith she did. Adding in the dolphins as part of the rescue made it even more God epic! A wonderful, historical fiction reader don’t want to miss. I received this complementary book to review and give my honest opinion without obligation from Barbour Publishing.

What Game is This

Victoria Bergstrom returns to Jekyll Island using a pseudo name, Torie Berg, to discover more about her friend's strange death and possibly discover more of her own mother's death twenty some years ago in Colleen Coble's newest novel, "A Stranger's Game." Torie is now working undercover in the IT department at the hotel where she once lived and is currently managed by her aunt. As she digs into the death of her friend, Lisbeth, strange things begin to happen around Torie and her new friend, Joe. Joe Abbott works at the hotel part time as security officer. Together, they try to solve Lisbeth's death/murder before anyone else gets hurt. Coble does not disappoint with this latest gripping novel full of drama and mystery. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Patriot Duty

Looking for a historical fiction novel filled with suspense, romance, intrigue, and mystery? A fast-paced, page-turner? Then, “Saving Mrs. Roosevelt,” by Candice Sue Patterson is the perfect fit. During WWII, the US Coast Guard opens a branch of service for single women called SPARs. Shirley Davenport wants to do her part in helping to serve her country during this time just as her four brothers are doing. So, when the announcement comes to Shirley’s hometown about SPARs, she and her friend join. Throughout her training, Captain Webber has several brief encounters with Shirley to know that she intrigues him. Enough intrigue that he and his follow officers feel Shirley is just the person for an undercover assignment in her hometown to discover who is out to harm First Lady Roosevelt. Find out on this adventurous read who is a patriot and who is a traitor. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Finding Freedom in Rest

Jami Amerine's latest book, "Rest, Girl," reads more like a diary as she grows and gains insight into this thing all humans crave - rest. As a follower of Christ, Jami offers her insights with humor and backed up with scripture. At first I will admit I had a difficult time getting into reading this book. However, with God's grace and mercy I started to see the bigger picture in what the author was trying to tell me, her audience. I loved her statement, "What will you choose, love or fear?" Followed by "You can not give to others what you do not possess (p.142)." My job is to love and not judge. Wow!! This book surely came to me at a perfect time with all the topsy -turvy occurring in our world day. So take the challenge: pick up this book and read it with an open heart. Maybe, just maybe, you will be transformed, finding rest! I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Good and Evil

A page-turning storyline makes this latest novel from Michelle Griep a must read. Lost in Darkness does not disappoint with strong characters, powerful story, and engaging dialog. Amelia Balfour is a travel writer preparing for her latest trip when she receives notification her father has died. One of her father’s last wishes is for her to oversee a surgery scheduled for her brother, Colin. What the reader soon discovers is that Colin suffers from acromegaly making him feel like a monster. But his heart is generous and loving towards his family and God. The problem lies with the treatment that needs to occur as prep work for the surgery by renown surgeon Peckwood and his new assistant, Graham Lambert. Peckwood is not who the public thinks he is. Graham is on to Peckwood but can he stop him in time. Put this on your must read list. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Healing Power of a Prayer Shawl Ministry

Take four ladies, some knitting needles, scans of yarn and the result is the prayer shawl ministry that meets weekly at the Community Church. However, the new pastor has an idea of how to increase attendance: send the prayer shawl ministry out into the public foray. What happens during the next several weeks is beyond what anyone could have imagined when the prayer shawl group sets up their knitting at the local mall. Sharon Mondragon’s novel, “The Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady,” will capture readers as they learn more about the prayer shawl ministry’s members and its impact on people in the community. When we step out in faith into the unknown, God does the unimaginable! Take a step of faith and read this yarn of a tale. I received this complementary copy from Audra Jennings PR and was not required to post a review. a Rafflecopter giveaway

A Quaint Life

Reading a novel whose setting is known to you makes the story so much more realistic – at least I think it does! Wanda E. Brunstetter’s newest novel, "Walnut Creek Wish", takes the reader to Walnut Creek, Ohio. Meet Rhonda and Jeff who feel a change of scenery may help their rocky marriage. Both have demanding jobs and Jeff likes to collect antiques much to Rhonda’s dislike. Rhonda feels they should be more frugal after purchasing a new house and she is dealing with the emotions of infertility. During one of his antique forays, Jeff meets Orley and Lois Troyer, owners of Memory Keepers. Can moving to Walnut Creek be the answer to Rhonda and Jeff’s strained marriage? Can the chance meeting with Orley and Lois lead to more than friendship? Readers will enjoy this novel for a lighthearted summer read. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review

Healthy Cooking

Wanda E. Brunstetter's newest cookbook, "Amish Friends Healthy Options Cookbook," focuses on healthier recipes that many Amish and Plain people have shared using the vegetables, fruit, and herbs from their gardens. There are beautiful pictures of many of the recipes featured in the book along with scriptures that focus on food and health. Also, it was nice to have the recipes tagged as gluen-free, sugar-free, low-carb and so forth in each category. The categories include breads, breakfast, main dishes, desserts, and homemade remedies along with many more. The cookbook is spiral bound thus allowing it to lay flat while preparing a recipe which is a blessing. I am looking forward to preparing several of the recipes I have selected (Triple Chocolate Biscotti, Graham Cracker Crust, and Slow-Cooker Chicken Stir -Fry) as healthier versions to what I usually prepare. I am trying to prepare more healthier meals for my family and myself and this cookbook was the boost I needed. I think others will find it of benefit in picking healthier options for meal preparations. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Historical Crime

Historical crime becomes more real in this fictionalized story, "The Silver Shadow," from the True Colors series. Liz Tolsma takes the reader back to the early 1900's in Denver, Colorado when someone began a rash of attacks on women. Building upon sparse information the author provides a tale centered on Polly Blythe, a young woman determined to make her mark in the world by being a journalist, and Edwin Price, a Denver police officer. Together they try to solve the crime spree by finding who is behind the attacks. Do they find a suspect? Does anyone get convicted of the crimes? In the process, Polly and Edwin begin to see each other differently. This dramatized fiction has a nice a pace to it but at times it felt forced, particular the dialogue. Overall, I enjoyed reading the book and recommend it to others who like historical fiction. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Haunted

In the early twentieth century, Hedda Krause, a young widow, comes to San Antonio, Texas and checks into the Menger Hotel. She has little to her name except the jewels her husband gave her prior to his death. While staying at the Menger, Hedda learns about the ghost, Sallie, then believes Sallie is haunting her. Her fear becomes real when her jewelry is taken from her room after being visited by the ghost of Sallie. This part of the story is told by Hedda from a book she wrote of her life. Fast forward to the present and Dini Blackstone is besotted with the tale of Hedda Krause. She meets a young man visiting San Antonio who is a descendent of the detective who originally investigated Hedda's robbery. Together they unravel what really happened to Hedda Krause and that particular night that altered her life. "The Lady in Residence," by Allison Pittman, is a must read for fans of mystery, drama, and romance. Once you get into the story, it is hard to put it down. I received a complimentary copy of this book to give my honest opinion from Barbour Publishing.

Leaving a Legacy

As a researcher of my own family history, I was drawn into this story, "Roots of Wood and Stone," created by Amanda Wen. Sloane Kelly was adapted at birth but as an adult has always wondered about who she is, what her birth mother was like. So when she is handed an old satchel in which she discovers a century old diary written by a nine year old girl she is intrigued. Garrett Anderson is the stranger who dropped off the old satchel at the historical museum. He is glad to just be able to cross one more item off his never ending list as he helps his sister clean out the aged family farmhouse in preparation to sell it since his grandmother has dementia. Their lives become intertwined as Sloane searches for more information about the pioneer girl named Annabelle and Garrett offers his assistance in searching the farmhouse for more information. What they discover is a life changing legacy for both of them. For a first time novel this story did not read as such. It had depth and strong characters that I could relate to so much so I was sad to read the last page. It is a modern day romance and a romance from days bygone brought to life. I look forward to reading more from Amanda Wen. I received a complimentary copy to review from Audra Jennings PR. https://www.audrajennings.com/2021/02/win-copy-of-roots-of-wood-and-stone-by.html

Amish Millionaire

Excited to read this new novel from Wanda E. Brunstetter and Jean Brunstetter to learn what has happened in the lives of Barbara, Sadie, Mandy and Ellen since the trip to Hawaii. Three of the four Amish women have married leaving Sadie to wonder if her boyfriend, Wyman, will ever stop job hopping and eventually ask her to be his wife. In the meantime, Sadie is busy working on a new quilt blending Amish and Hawaiian traditions. When one of her friends suggests she write a book about quilts she begins to brainstorm on how she could afford to do such a big project Then her family receives a call that Sadie's mother's sister has been in an accident. Upon her death the family discovers Sadie is the main beneficiary of her aunt's will. Is this the answer to Sadie's prayer on affording the book project? Or does it create more of a divide between Sadie and her family and Wyman? How does an Amish woman remain true to her faith? So glad that the authors decided to do a sequel but the reader can read this book as a stand alone if missed reading the first book. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Conspiracy Intrigue

The suspense and drama continue in Andrew Huff's newest novel, "Cross Shadow." Reporter Christine Lewis is asked to check into the arrest of her stepbrother in Texas for murder but to her surprise and indignation John Cross has followed her to Dallas. What follows is a cat and mouse game to find out why Christine's stepbrother is being framed for murder while being shot at and chased. Not only does this story explore more of the relationship between Christine and John; it explores John's life as a pastor and a former CIA agent and his relationship with God. Can he live with a foot in both worlds? How can he reconcile lying to find the truth? This is a fast paced read with endearing characters. I am secretly rooting for Christine and John to discover how to make their relationship work as the reader is left wondering at the end of the book. So I am anxiously looking forward to the third installment. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Audra Jennings PR and was under no obligation to post a review. a Rafflecopter giveaway