Where Treetops Glisten (Blog Tour + Review)

Where Treetops Glisten
by Cara Putman, Sarah Sundin, Tricia Goyer
Christian Fiction / Historical / Romance
Available September 2014
Waterbrook Multnomah
368 pages

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About the Book

The crunch of newly fallen snow, the weight of wartime

Siblings forging new paths and finding love in three stories, filled with the wonder of Christmas

Turn back the clock to a different time, listen to Bing Crosby sing of sleigh bells in the snow, as the realities of America’s involvement in the Second World War change the lives of the Turner family in Lafayette, Indiana.

In Cara Putman’s White Christmas, Abigail Turner is holding down the Home Front as a college student and a part-time employee at a one-of-a-kind candy shop. Loss of a beau to the war has Abigail skittish about romantic entanglements—until a hard-working young man with a serious problem needs her help.

Abigail’s brother Pete is a fighter pilot hero returned from the European Theater in Sarah Sundin’s I’ll Be Home for Christmas, trying to recapture the hope and peace his time at war has eroded. But when he encounters a precocious little girl in need of Pete’s friendship, can he convince her widowed mother that he’s no longer the bully she once knew?

In Tricia Goyer’s Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Meredith Turner, “Merry” to those who know her best, is using her skills as a combat nurse on the frontline in the Netherlands. Halfway around the world from home, Merry never expects to face her deepest betrayal head on, but that’s precisely what God has in mind to redeem her broken heart.

The Turner family believes in God’s providence during such a tumultuous time. Can they absorb the miracle of Christ’s birth and His plan for a future?

My Thoughts
Three of my favorite authors. Christmas stories. About siblings. Set during World War II. All of this combines for an amazing collection of stories in Where Treetops Glisten. Typically in collections/ anthologies, the stories are either independent or are loosely connected. I loved how these three stories are more closely tied together.

All three of these stories were amazing and well-executed! The romance thread is strong, which I love. And the historical aspects provided a balance to the primary relationship in each novella. I don't know that I can choose one favorite, so I'll just encourage you to read all three for yourself!  [5 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my fair and honest review.

The Daughter of Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky (Blog Tour + Review)

The Daughter of Highland Hall
by Carrie Turansky
Edwardian Brides series, Book 2
Christian Fiction / Historical / Romance
Available October 2014
WaterBrook Multnomah
336 pages

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About the Book

What if the title, the estate, the life of security and splendor… what if it isn’t enough?

Strong-willed and beautiful, debutante Katherine Ramsey feels ready to take the London social season by storm, and she must. Her family estate, Highland Hall, has been passed to older male cousin Sir William Ramsey, and her only means of securing her future is to make a strong debut and find a proper husband. With her all-knowing and meddling aunt as a guide, Katherine is certain to attract suitors at the lavish gatherings, sparkling with Great Britain’s elite.

When a shocking family scandal sidelines Katherine, forcing her out of the social spotlight, she keeps a low profile, volunteering with the poor in London’s East End. Here Katherine feels free from her predictable future, and even more so as a friendship with medical student Jonathan Foster deepens and her faith in God grows. But when Katherine is courted anew by a man of wealth and position, dreams of the life she always thought she wanted surface again. Torn between tradition and the stirrings in her heart for a different path, she must decide whom she can trust and love—and if she will choose a life serving others over one where she is served.

My Thoughts

I'm a huge fan of historical stories set in the late-1800s or early 1900s. I'm never truly sure if that's Gilded Age, Edwardian period, Regency, or what, but I love reading about those periods because it's so different from today. I enjoyed reading Carrie Turansky's first novel in the Edwardian Brides series earlier this year and was excited to pick up the story with The Daughter of Highland Hall. 

I loved reading about Katherine's debut season. The idea of being presented into society just fascinates me, and I felt like I learned a lot from this novel. She's a very likeable character, and it was interesting to see how she handled this time in her life. 

There's a lot going on in this book, with multiple story lines and points of view. At times, I wanted to stick with one thing to see how it would go, but this really did help round out the book. The faith message was strong in this book, and I thoroughly enjoyed how these truths came through so clearly through the telling of the story.

Overall, I really enjoyed The Daughter of Highland Hall. It's a wonderful period romance that I definitely recommend!

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author

Carrie Turansky is the award-winning author of nearly a dozen novels and novellas, including Snowflake Sweethearts and Along Came Love. She has won the ACFW Carol Award, the Crystal Globe Award and the International Digital Award. She lives in central New Jersey with her husband, Scott, who is a pastor, counselor and the author of several parenting books.

Carrie Turansky Online

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The Governess of Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky (Review)

The Governess of Highland Hall
by Carrie Turansky
Edwardian Brides series, Book 1
Christian Fiction / Historical / Romance
Available October 2013
WaterBrook Multnomah
336 pages

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About the Book

Worlds lie between the marketplaces of India and the halls of a magnificent country estate like Highland Hall. Will Julia be able to find her place when a governess is neither upstairs family nor downstairs help? 

Missionary Julia Foster loves working alongside her parents, ministering and caring for young girls in India. But when the family must return to England due to illness, she readily accepts the burden for her parents’ financial support. Taking on a job at Highland Hall as governess, she quickly finds that teaching her four privileged, ill-mannered charges at a grand estate is more challenging than expected, and she isn’t sure what to make of the estate’s preoccupied master, Sir William Ramsey. 

Widowed and left to care for his two young children and his deceased cousin Randolph’s two teenage girls, William is consumed with saving the estate from the financial ruin. The last thing he needs is any distraction coming from the kindhearted-yet-determined governess who seems to be quietly transforming his household with her persuasive personality, vibrant prayer life, and strong faith. 

While both are tending past wounds and guarding fragile secrets, Julia and William are determined to do what it takes to save their families—common ground that proves fertile for unexpected feelings. But will William choose Julia’s steadfast heart and faith over the wealth and power he needs to secure Highland Hall’s future?

Buy a copy  |  Read an excerpt  |  Find out what others think

My Thoughts

I'm loving all of these English Regency / Edwardian period novels that are coming out right now! There's just something about this time period that intrigues me, and I can't get enough of it! The Governess of Highland Hall was another wonderful book set during this time. The tension between the classes is always interesting to me, and this book does a wonderful job of showing characters who struggle with their "place" in society and crossing between the classes.

The best part of this book was the character development. Turansky writes each character brilliantly. There are quite a few characters—Julia, William, William's two children, his teenage nieces, and a host of other family members and servants—and they I felt like I got to know all of them by the end of the novel. I felt that knowing the characters well made this story even more endearing and helped draw me into a plot that was at times a bit predictable.

Carrie Turansky is a new-to-me author, but after reading The Governess of Highland Hall, I'll be looking for more books from her in the future! [4 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from Waterbrook Multnomah in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author

Carrie Turansky is the award-winning author of nearly a dozen novels and novellas, including Snowflake Sweethearts and Along Came Love. She has won the ACFW Carol Award, the Crystal Globe Award and the International Digital Award. She lives in central New Jersey with her husband, Scott, who is a pastor, counselor and the author of several parenting books.

Carrie Turansky Online

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Wishing on Willows Is a Stellar Sophomore Novel!

Wishing on Willows
by Katie Ganshert
Christian Fiction / Contemporary / Romance
Available March 2013
WaterBrook Multnomah
320 pages

Buy a copy
Read an excerpt
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About the Book
Does a second chance at life and love always involve surrender?

A three-year old son, a struggling café, and fading memories are all Robin Price has left of her late husband. As the proud owner of Willow Tree Café in small town Peaks, Iowa,  she pours her heart into every muffin she bakes and espresso she pulls, thankful for the sense of purpose and community the work provides.
                                     
So when developer Ian McKay shows up in Peaks with plans to build condos where her café and a vital town ministry are located, she isn’t about to let go without a fight.

As stubborn as he is handsome, Ian won’t give up easily. His family’s business depends on his success in Peaks. But as Ian pushes to seal the deal, he wonders if he has met his match. Robin’s gracious spirit threatens to undo his resolve, especially when he discovers the beautiful widow harbors a grief that resonates with his own.

With polarized opinions forming all over town, business becomes unavoidably personal and Robin and Ian must decide whether to cling to the familiar or surrender their plans to the God of Second Chances.

My Thoughts
It's not often that I sit down and read books in a series or even just books by the same author back to back. I just like a little variety in my reading. However, about a week after reading Ganshert's debut novel, Wildflowers from Winter, I couldn't stand to wait any longer. I HAD to read Wishing on Willows. It was calling to me!

I was excited to learn that this book would indeed be Robin's story. After meeting her in Wildflowers from Winter—immediately following the unexpected death of her husband and following her surprise pregnancy, I almost felt like I needed some closure with Robin. And thankfully, Katie agreed and gave it to readers in Wishing on Willows! The story picks up three years later, and Robin's dream of owning a cafe is proving to be more difficult than she imagined. When Ian shows up and offers to buy it, everyone thinks she should sell. But selling her dream just isn't in the mix for Robin.

Again, the tension between the main characters crackles from the beginning. Ian and Robin seem like they would be great friends, but there's this huge elephant in the room whenever they're together. He wants to buy her cafe ... she doesn't want to sell ... and they're pitted against each other. Plus, they each have pretty tremendous baggage from their marriages. It was interesting to see how they worked through their individual grief. It was a good reminder that things cannot just continue on unsaid and undealt with (is that even a word?). Eventually, we have to deal with things and move on.

It was fun to reconnect with Bethany and Evan three years later as well. And Robin's son is a great addition to the book ... often providing a lighthearted moment when the tension or grief looks like it might get too intense. My fingers are crossed to read more about the Price family ... perhaps Amanda's story could be next?

Katie Ganshert's sophomore release was just as impressive as her debut. It seems I've found a new author to love. Now the big question is ... when will her next book be released?! [5 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah's Blogging for Books program in exchange for my fair and honest review.

If you thought this review was helpful, would you please rate it?

About the Author
Katie Ganshert graduated from the University of Wisconsin in Madison with a degree in education, and worked as a fifth grade teacher for several years before staying home to write full-time. She was born and raised in the Midwest, where she lives with her husband and their young son. She is the author of Wildflowers from Winter.

Katie Ganshert Online

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Loved this Debut Novel from Katie Ganshert!

Wildflowers from Winter
by Katie Ganshert
Christian Fiction / Contemporary / Romance
Available May 2012
WaterBrook Multnomah
320 pages

Buy a copy
Read an excerpt
Find out what others think

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About the Book
Like the winter, grief has a season. Life returns with the spring.

A young architect at a prestigious Chicago firm, Bethany Quinn has built the life she dreamed of during her teen years in a trailer park.  An unexpected interruption from her estranged mother reveals that tragedy has struck in her hometown and a reluctant Bethany is called back to rural Iowa.

Determined to pay her respects to her past while avoiding any emotional entanglements, she vows not to stay long. But the unexpected inheritance of five hundred acres of farmland and a startling turn of events in Chicago forces Bethany to come up with a new plan.

Handsome farmhand Evan Price has taken care of the Quinn farm for years.  When Bethany is left the land, Evan must fight her decisions to realize his dreams. But even as he disagrees with Bethany’s vision, Evan feels drawn to her and the pain she keeps so carefully locked away.

For Bethany, making peace with her past and the God of her childhood doesn’t seem like the path to freedom. Is letting go the only way to new life, love and a peace that she’s not even sure exists?

My Thoughts
It seems that Bethany and Evan should have a lot in common. After all, they both love Bethany's grandfather and come from the same place. However, Bethany's determined to move on with her life and leave her past behind. When she inherits her grandfather's farmhouse—sans house—she's determined to sell ... even if that means selling Evan's dream out from under him.

Sparks fly between Evan and Bethany nearly from the beginning. I could tell that this was going to be an interesting relationship and couldn't wait to see how and if it developed further ... though I hoped it would! As much as I came to like Bethany, I liked Evan from the very start. He was the perfect hero for this story and may have been the most well-developed character in the story.

The third-person vignettes were a unique touch. I enjoyed the glimpses they gave to the past and they really helped fill out the story. Additionally, Robin was a great character, and I'm excited that her story be featured in Ganshert's next book.

Katie Ganshert's debut novel, Wildflowers from Winter, was fantastic! If this first novel is any indication of what readers can expect in the future, I can't wait to read what's next!   [5 stars]

I did not receive this book for review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

If this review was helpful, would you mind ranking it? 

About the Author
Katie Ganshert graduated from the University of Wisconsin in Madison with a degree in education, and worked as a fifth grade teacher for several years before staying home to write full-time. She was born and raised in the Midwest, where she lives with her husband and their young son. She is the author of Wildflowers from Winter.

Katie Ganshert Online

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A Sweet Romance from Robin Jones Gunn

Echoes
by Robin Jones Gunn
Glenbrooke series, Book 3
Christian Fiction / Contemporary / Romance
Re-released May 2004
WaterBrook Multnomah
288 pages

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About the Book
Will Lauren risk losing her heart...to a man she's never met?

Lauren Phillips tries to keep busy while recovering from a broken engagement. Then one day, through her home computer, Lauren accidentally connects on the Internet with a mysterious man she knows only as K.C.

Lauren's e-mail relationship with K.C. quickly becomes the thing she loves most in life..and the source of dreams she cannot bear to relinquish.

After a year of corresponding, the opportunity appears for them to meet. Lauren faces a tough choice: Is she willing to risk everything...including another broken heart?

My Thoughts
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Lauren in Echoes, the third book in the Glenbrooke series by Robin Jones Gunn! I think a lot of women will relate to Lauren—wanting to get married and changing who she is to be what she thinks a man wants her to be. She's so sweet and fun and I liked her even more as the book progressed. I love how faith is central to this story (and all of Robin's stories, really). Conversations about God flow naturally between the characters and it's easy to see how you could have similar conversations in your own life.

I read most of the book with a silly grin on my face because it was such a sweet romance, and I had to smile! But, it's one of the few romances where I've been this anxious to get to the end and see how the conclusion was going to come about. If I had been reading a hard copy, I'm pretty sure I would've skipped ahead to read the last page ... just to make sure!

I did chuckle a little throughout the book since it's a smidge dated (originally published in 1996) with the newness of "the Net," explanations of how to communicate via email, and talk of "chat rooms." It was easy to get past that, though, and dive into this lovely romance!

I love how Robin has connected this series with characters from the other books. You certainly don't have to read them in order, but I think it's more fun that way. :) Fans of contemporary romance will enjoy Lauren and K.C.'s story! I highly recommend!  [4.5 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author
Robin Jones Gunn is the best-selling and award-winning author of more than seventy books, with over 4 million copies of her titles sold worldwide. Best known among them are the Christy Miller, Sierra Jensen, and Christy and Todd: College Years teen series. A Christy Award winner and a two-time finalist for excellence in fiction, Robin has also been a Gold Medallion finalist. She and her husband have been married for 35 years and have two grown children. They live in Hawaii.

Robin Jones Gunn Online

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An Enjoyable Visit to Glenbrooke

Secrets
by Robin Jones Gunn
The Glenbrooke Series, Book 1
Christian Fiction / Contemporary / Romance
Originally Published 1994 | Re-released 2010
WaterBrook Multnomah
288 pages

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About the Book
Jessica ran from her past...but can she hide from love?

Jessica Morgan wants desperately to forget the past and begin a new life. She chooses a small, peaceful town tucked away in Oregon’s Willamette Valley as the place to start over—Glenbrooke. Once there, Jessica conceals her identity from the intriguing personalities she meets—including the compassionate paramedic who desires to protect her and the jealous woman who wants nothing more than to destroy her.

Will Jessica’s deceit ruin all hope for the future? Or will she find a deeper peace that allows her to stop hiding the truth from those who love her most of all?

This heartwarming bestseller, book one in the Glenbrooke series, introduces the fascinating people of Glenbrooke in a compelling tale of romance and spiritual truth.

My Thoughts
I've long been a fan of Robin Jones Gunn—like since middle school! I read most of The Glenbrooke Series a few years after they originally released and was excited to see that WaterBrook Multnomah has recently re-released them with updated covers. I thought it was high time to go back for a visit to Glenbrooke and am so glad I did!

Secrets is the first book in the series. Jessica arrives in Glenbrooke looking for a new start. It seems like bad things continually happen to Jessica upon her arrival and she questions her choices. Slowly but surely, though, her new friends start getting through her self-imposed defenses and she realizes that she must trust others—and most importantly, God—to help her as she faces trials.

While this book may be "old," the timeless messages of trusting in God and the need for relationships come through loud and clear. I think Jessica's desire for independence and resistance to asking for help are characteristics that many readers will be able to relate to. And the way that various characters throughout the book come to her aid and teach her about having a relationship with the Lord is both genuine and heartfelt. The romance between Jessica and Kyle is so sweet, even if it developed a little quickly for my tastes. Overall, the story is very touching, and I am happy to recommend Secrets to readers of all ages—from high school to adults.  [4 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah's Blogging for Books program in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author
Robin Jones Gunn is the best-selling and award-winning author of more than seventy books, with over 4 million copies of her titles sold worldwide. Best known among them are the Christy Miller, Sierra Jensen, and Christy and Todd: College Years teen series. A Christy Award winner and a two-time finalist for excellence in fiction, Robin has also been a Gold Medallion finalist. She and her husband have been married for 35 years and have two grown children. They live in Hawaii.

Robin Jones Gunn Online

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Would you please rank my review on Blogging for Books?

A Wreath of Snow by Liz Curtis Higgs

A Wreath of Snow
by Liz Curtis Higgs
Christian Fiction / Historical / Christmas
Available October 2012
WaterBrook Multnomah
224 pages

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About the Book
All Margaret Campbell wants for Christmas is a safe journey home. When her plans for a festive holiday with her family in Stirling crumble beneath the weight of her brother’s bitterness, the young schoolteacher wants nothing more than to return to the students she loves and the town house she calls home.

Then an unexpected detour places her in the path of Gordon Shaw, a handsome newspaperman from Glasgow, who struggles under a burden of remorse and shame.

When the secret of their shared history is revealed, will it leave them tangled in a knot of regret? Or might their past hold the threads that will bind their future together?

As warm as a woolen scarf on a cold winter’s eve, A Wreath of Snow is a tender story of love and forgiveness, wrapped in a celebration of all things Scottish, all things Victorian, and, especially, all things Christmas.

My Thoughts
What a wonderful story! A Wreath of Snow was the first book I've read by Liz Curtis Higgs, and I was so impressed! Liz delivered a sweet yet emotional story with lessons of forgiveness and redemption woven throughout. Often, I find novellas a little lacking—too few pages to fully develop the story. However, I was pleasantly surprised that I felt like I got a complete story in this short, quick read. I still wanted more, but it was just because I enjoyed the story so much! While this technically is a Christmas story, it would be a wonderful read any time of the year. I will definitely be on the lookout for more stories like this from Liz Curtis Higgs in the future! [5 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah's Blogging for Books Program in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author
Liz is the author of nearly 30 books, with more than 3 million copies in print. Her popular nonfiction books include Bad Girls of the Bible, Really Bad Girls of the Bible, Unveiling Mary Magdalene, Slightly Bad Girls of the Bible, Rise and Shine, and Embrace Grace.

She’s also a best-selling novelist, creating both contemporary and historical fiction, including her latest award-winning novels, Here Burns My Candle and Mine Is the Night. And she’s written five books for young children, including Go Away, Dark Night.

On the personal side, Liz is married to Bill Higgs, Ph.D., who serves as Director of Operations for her speaking and writing office. Liz and Bill enjoy their old Kentucky home, a nineteenth-century farmhouse in Louisville, and are the proud (and relieved!) parents of two college grads, Matthew and Lillian.

Liz Curtis Higgs Online

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Firestorm by Lisa Tawn Bergren

Firestorm
by Lisa Tawn Bergren
Full Circle series, Book 6
Christian Fiction / Romance
Available June 2001
WaterBrook Multnomah
352 pages

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About the Book
Will Reyne remain trapped in a life without risk—and a life without love? As a smoke jumper, Reyne Oldre--friend to Rachel Tanner and Beth Morgan (Refuge)--once led a team of courageous firefighters into a blaze that ended in unspeakable tragedy. Now crippled by fear, she conducts fire research from a safe distance, determined not to risk that kind of pain again. But when the flames of love begin to flicker between her and smoke jumper Logan McCabe, Reyne must face the fearsome storms from her past and battle the raging Firestorm that burns in her soul.

My Thoughts
Only after I started reading Firestorm did I realize that I read the entire Full Circle series several years ago when it was first published. I didn't really remember the details of the story, though, so it was like reading it for the first time.

After enduring every smoke jumper's worst nightmare, Reyne became a fire researcher and vows to do everything in her power to prevent more deaths. When Logan is awarded the funding for his research project—at the expense of hers—she is furious. As they work together to complete the project, Reyne finds herself opening to this smoke jumper. Will Reyne be able to trust God to protect her heart and keep Logan safe?

Oh, what a great story! There was plenty of action as Reyne, Logan, and others fought fires throughout the summer. I was impressed by Bergren's research of the nature of forest fires and the technical side of fighting them. It really made for a fascinating story. The romance was so sweet, too, and I really empathized with Reyne's fears and desire to overcome them.

For those who have read the earlier books in the series, you'll be excited to reconnect with Beth and Rachel from earlier books. The friendship between the three women was a wonderful storyline too. While much of the book was fairly predictable (not necessarily a bad thing!), I will say there was one super unexpected twist in the book that left me in tears! Without giving anything away, I also liked that Bergren included the novella Sand Castles at the end of the book to close out the saga. It gave closure to a pretty significant loose end. I'm so glad I rediscovered this series! [4 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah's Blogging for Books program in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author
Lisa Tawn Bergren is a best-selling author of more than thirty books, including The Captain's Bride, The Busy Mom's Devotional, and the God Gave Us children's book series. Lisa's time is split between managing home base, writing (including a fair amount of travel writing), consulting and freelance editing (with a little speaking here and there). She's married to Tim, a liturgical sculptor, graphic designer and musician. They have three kids—Olivia, Emma, and Jack. The Bergrens make their home in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Lisa Tawn Bergren Online

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Not This Time by Vicki Hinze

Not This Time
by Vicki Hinze
Crossroads Crisis Center, Book 3
Contemporary Christian Fiction / Suspense
Published February 2012
WaterBrook Multnomah
336 pages

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About the Book
Small town scandal. International terrorist attack. Who among them is the traitor?

Sara and Beth have built a multi-million dollar business together, but their once solid friendship is now strained. Beth is leery of Sara’s husband, and when he is kidnapped, authorities consider Beth their prime suspect.

Then, their small town of Seagrove Village is rocked by an act of terrorism, and Beth doesn’t know who to trust. Someone she knows is linked to the attack, but who? Is there a connection to Crossroads Crisis Center? In the midst of the confusion and fear, Beth finds herself attracted to a man from her past. She knows she shouldn’t fall in love with him, but she can’t resist or even explain their bond. As her world unravels around her, she wonders, is it possible to be beyond redemption?

My Thoughts
Suspenseful from the beginning to the end, Not This Time by Vicki Hinze will keep you turning pages to see what happens next. I didn't realize when I started that this was the third book in the series, and it would probably have helped me understand a bit more about what was going on in the beginning. However, several chapters in, I was caught up on the past and totally into the book. I can't really summarize the plot without giving key things away, but let me say that I didn't figure out what was going on until the very last few pages. Not This Time was intensely suspenseful with a perfect blend of romance, and I look forward to reading more from Vicki in the future! [4 stars]

I received a free copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah's Blogging for Books program in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Author
Vicki Hinze is an award-winning author of multiple novels including Forget Me Not and Deadly Ties. Hinze’s willingness to take risks in writing and genre has earned her a reputation for trail-blazing skill. She holds a Master of Arts in Creative Writing and a Doctorate in Philosophy, Theocentric Business & Ethics and served as vice president on the International Thriller Writers Board of Directors. She lives in Florida with her husband.

Vicki Hinze Online

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FIRST Wild Card Tour: Everything Romance

Everything Romance: A Celebration of Love for Couples
by David Bordon and Tom Winters
Non-Fiction / Christian Living / Gift Book
Published December 20, 2011
WaterBrook Multnomah
288 pages

It is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour book review! If you wish to join the FIRST blog alliance, just click the button. We are a group of reviewers who tour Christian books. A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured. The reason it is called a FIRST Wild Card Tour is that you never know if the book will be fiction, non~fiction, for young, or for old...or for somewhere in between! Enjoy your free peek into the book!

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!

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Today's Wild Card authors are:

David Bordon and Tom Winters

and the book:

Everything Romance: A Celebration of Love for Couples

WaterBrook Press (December 20, 2011)

***Special thanks to Ashley Boyer, Publicist, WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group of for sending me a review copy.***

About the Book

Everything Romance is a gift book overflowing with heartwarming ideas to keep that special relationship fresh and exciting. Whether you’re a newlywed or celebrating 40 years of wedded bliss, this book offers a treasury of ways to capture your love’s heart daily. Love letters, inexpensive date night suggestions, tantalizing recipes, conversation starters, and inspiring love stories will all help you romance the love of your life in creative and meaningful ways!

My Thoughts
I'm not normally a big fan of gift books . . . as far as reading straight through. But I have thoroughly enjoyed reading through Everything Romance as the mood strikes. This is a great collection of all things "romantic." The authors have done an excellent job compiling a mixture of stories, letters, quotes, recipes, date ideas, gift suggestions and the like. In fact, a couple of the date / gift suggestions inspired my gift to Hubs for Valentine's this year!

Anyone who is a romantic at heart will enjoy Everything Romance. [4 stars] 


I received a free copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah and FIRST Wild Card Tours in exchange for my fair and honest review.

About the Authors

David Bordon and Tom Winters are partners in Bordon-Winters, LLC, a book concept and packaging company that produces successful books and gift products. Among their previous titles are the popular 101 Things You Should Do series. This volume joins another one of their beautiful gift books, Everything Christmas.

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AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER

A Marriage Blessing

Most gracious God, we give You thanks for Your tender love in sending Jesus Christ to come among us, to be born of a human mother, and to make the way of the cross to be the way of life.

We thank You, also, for consecrating the union of man and woman in His name. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, pour out the abundance of Your blessing upon this man and this woman. Defend them from every enemy. Lead them into all peace. Let their love for each other be a seal upon their hearts, a mantle about their shoulders, and a crown upon their foreheads. Bless them in their work and in their companionship; in their sleeping and in their waking; in their joys and in their sorrows; in their life and in their death. Finally, in Your mercy, bring them to that table where Your saints feast forever in Your heavenly home; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with You and the Holy Spirit, lives and reigns, one God, forever and ever.

Amen.
(from The Book of Common Prayer)

PERFECT PAIR PIZZA-PITA SNACKS

2 whole-wheat pita breads
4 teaspoons basil pesto
1 cup cottage cheese
2 tablespoons Roma tomatoes, chopped
2 teaspoons fresh basil, chopped
Fresh Parmesan cheese (optional)

Toast pita breads until they are crispy and firm. Spread half of the pesto on each pita. Next, spread half of the cottage
cheese on each pita. Top with chopped tomato and fresh basil. If desired, sprinkle with fresh grated parmesan cheese. Slice each pita into two or four wedges and enjoy!

Romance Trivia

A team of medical experts in Virginia contends that you’re more likely to catch the common cold virus by shaking hands than by kissing.

Excerpted from Everything Romance by David Bordon and Thomas J. Winters Copyright © 2011 by David Bordon and Thomas J. Winters. Excerpted by permission of WaterBrook Press, a division of Random House, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.

The Christmas Singing by Cindy Woodsmall

The Christmas Singing by Cindy Woodsmall
Ada's House series
Contemporary Christian Fiction, Amish, Christmas
Available October 4, 2011
WaterBrook Multnomah
208 pages

I have confessed on this blog before that I'm not really a fan of Amish fiction. I'm not sure if I'm ready to go back on that claim altogether, but I will say that I'm a fan of Cindy Woodsmall!

The Christmas Singing is a beautiful stories of a girl with a broken heart trying to move on and build a life for herself. When her bakery burns down, she must return home and find a way to start over. Once home, she must face the man who broke her heart and determine if forgiveness will lead to a second chance at love.

I instantly connected with Mattie. She is a strong woman who has big ideas about what she wants for her life. She struggles with how her desires for the future can mesh with the possibility of love and the ideals of her faith. She display strength and courage. She is different from many of the female characters I've "met" in Amish books, and I really liked her.

I'm totally fascinated by the Amish lifestyle that was portrayed in The Christmas Singing. It seemed to be a bit more . . . relaxed . . . than in other books I've read. There was still simplicity but it wasn't quite as extreme.

Cindy told a beautiful story and I was captivated from beginning to end. This is the first book by Cindy Woodsmall that I've read and I will definitely read more of her work in the future!

I received a free copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah's Blogging for Books program in exchange for my fair and honest review.

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About the Book
After Gideon coldly broke her heart, can the warmth of the season revive Mattie’s hopes? Mattie thought her childhood sweetheart adored her until he abruptly ended their engagement on Christmas Eve. Three years later, will learning the truth behind his rejection restore her Christmas joy – or open the door to even deeper heartbreak? Spend Christmas with the Amish in this story of love, romance, heartache, and restoration.

Read an excerpt here.

About the Author

Cindy Woodsmall is a New York Times best-selling author whose connection with the Amish community has been featured on ABC Nightline and on the front page of the Wall Street Journal. She is the author of six novels, two novellas and Plain Wisdom, a work of non-fiction co-authored with her dearest Old Order Amish friend. Cindy lives in Georgia with her family.
Connect with Cindy through her website, Facebook, and Twitter.

Fun Christmas Book & A Discount!

I recently read The Christmas Singing by Cindy Woodsmall and will be posting a review soon, but I wanted to make sure you had a chance to read it BEFORE Christmas . . . and at a discount too!

Of course my full review is coming, but let me just say this was a GREAT book! I'm not usually a fan of Amish fiction, but I loved this book enough that I went back and read the first one as soon as I finished! (Both are excellent!)

And WaterBrook Multnomah is graciously offering YOU a 30% discount and free shipping on The Christmas Singing (and any other title). Just use the promo code DECEMBER11 when checking out at WaterBrook Multnomah's website. 

Still not convinced? Check out the first chapter here . . . for FREE!
The Christmas Singing (Chapter 1 Excerpt)

Too Rich for a Bride by Mona Hodgson

I'm super behind on several reviews so I'm working on getting caught up. I've read several great books lately and this is certainly one of them!

Too Rich for a Bride by Mona Hodgson is the follow-up novel to her Two Brides Too Many. Ida Sinclair joins her sisters in Cripple Creek, Colorado with aspirations of becoming a successful businesswoman. Thinking she has no time (or need) for men, she is surprised when two eligible bachelors begin vying for her attention.

Hodgson produces a great historical fiction. The town of Cripple Creek is interesting the men and women who live there are true characters. Mona writes each character in such a way that they seem to be real people. I also enjoyed that although this is the second novel in the series, it truly stands alone. I loved the characters of Kat and Nell and look forward to reading their story in Two Brides Too Many. My only complaint was that the romantic connections in this book seemed a bit forced. However, the rest of the book made up for it. This is a charming series and I look forward to the final installment.

I received a free copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah in exchange for my fair and honest review.

Indelible by Kristen Heitzmann

Kristen Heitzmann is one of my favorite new-to-me authors. I've read four of her books in the past year or so and have loved every one of them. Indelible was no different! The thing that amazes me the most is how different her writing style is from book to book (or series to series). It kind of blows you away, actually. This series is full of suspense and a little bit of crazy, while the others were much more romantic and "chick lit." Regardless, I liked them all!

Indelible is set in Redford, a wealthy resort community, where strange things happen. When Trevor starts receiving bizarre pictures in the mail, he knows it's only a matter of time before things begin to escalate. Natalie is new to town and has an unusual gift. She needs friends more than ever when her nephew unexpectedly comes to live with her.

There are lots of moving parts in this story, but somehow it all flowed together and made sense. The characters are unique and interesting ... definitely not your typical romance hero and heroine. It seems that every character has some unusual quality that piques the interest of readers until they figure out what exactly is going on. The second book in this series, I actually enjoyed it more than the first ... if that's even possible. I could hardly put it down and somewhat seriously considered skipping work just so I could finish it. :)

I received a free copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah in exchange for my fair and honest review.

Would you take a minute and rank my review? Thanks in advance. :)

About the Book
In a clash of light and darkness, can courage prevail?


Rescuing a toddler from the jaws of a mountain lion, Trevor MacDaniel, a high-country outfitter, sets in motion events he can’t foresee. His act of bravery entwines his life with gifted sculptor Natalie Reeve—and attracts a grim admirer.

Trevor’s need to guard and protect is born of tragedy, prompting his decision to become a search and rescue volunteer. Natalie’s gift of sculpting comes from an unusual disability that seeks release through her creative hands. In each other they see strength and courage as they face an incomprehensible foe.

When a troubled soul views Trevor as archangel and adversary, Redford’s peaceful mountain community is threatened. Together with Police Chief Jonah Westfall, Trevor presses his limits to combat the menace who targets the most helpless and innocent.

About the Author
While home schooling her four kids, Kristen Heitzmann wrote her first novel. It became one of a five book historical series. Since then, she has written three more historical novels and eight contemporary romantic and psychological suspense novels including The Still of Night, nominated for the Colorado Book Award, The Tender Vine, a Christy Award finalist and Christy Award winning Secrets. She lives in Colorado with her husband Jim, sundry family members, and pets.

Departures: The Rediscovered Stories by Robin Jones Gunn

Robin Jones Gunn was one of my absolute favorite authors when I was in middle and high school. I absolutely devoured the Christy Miller series in 7th and 8th grade. So I had no choice but to request this book and get caught up.

Departures gives readers two new stories about familiar friends: Christy Miller and Sierra Jensen. Each novella is about 100 pages, and I flew right through them. I had forgotten how much I loved Gunn's stories! Gunn uses her writing as a ministry to readers. These in particular are focused on teaching valuable biblical truths to teenage girls. The messages come through loud and clear. There is no subtlety with the truth here! The characters wrestle with different situations and rely on Scripture and the counsel of more mature believers to come to conclusions about which direction to go. At times, the stories seemed fairly simplistic in light of all the challenges that teens face today. But the more I read, the more I found myself remembering what it was like to be a teenager ... a high school student trying to make the right decision, on my way to college trying to figure out relationships. My younger self really identified with Christy and Sierra.

I cannot recommend this book ... and others in the series ... highly enough for girls of all ages. These would be totally appropriate for middle school and high school students. And if you're like me and a little bit older than that, don't be embarrassed to catch up with these old friends!

I received a free copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah in exchange for my fair and honest review.

Please take a minute and rank my review. All you need is an active email address. Thanks!




About the Book
Christy Miller and Sierra Jensen cross paths on their way to summer vacations that reveal what a gift it is to have a true Forever Friend.

Now Boarding at Gate 10
After her high school graduation, still aching from Todd’s departure, Christy joins her family on a trip to Wisconsin to visit relatives. While there, she reunites with Matthew, an old friend from junior high. When Matthew starts to show a romantic interest in Christy, she realizes this summer vacation could change everything she thought her future would be.

In the Event of a Water Landing
Fifteen-year-old Sierra Jensen can’t wait to spend her summer vacation with her friend Jana at a pristine lake in Montana. But when they arrive, it becomes clear that Jana’s only interest is acquiring a boyfriend. Sierra just wants to hang out with the guys as friends, but Jana turns every encounter into a possible romantic relationship. As their friendship begins to suffer, Sierra wonders if it’s possible to find a Forever Friend who will listen to you, laugh with you, and keep your confidences.

About the Author
Robin Jones Gunn is the best-selling and award-winning author of more than seventy books, with over 4 million copies of her titles sold worldwide. Best known among them are the Christy Miller, Sierra Jensen, and Christy and Todd: College Years teen series. A Christy Award winner and a two-time finalist for excellence in fiction, Robin has also been a Gold Medallion finalist. She and her husband have a grown son and daughter and live in Hawaii.

God Gave Us You by Lisa Tawn Bergren

I received this precious children's book in the mail today and just had to let you know how great it was ... pronto. This is a sweet story about a mama bear telling her baby bear a bedtime story about how God gave them a special gift ... her. What a wonderful reminder that God brings families together and gifts mommies and daddies with precious babies. The pictures by Laura J. Bryant are so sweet ... very winter wonderland.

The book is written toward telling the story of how biological children came to the family. However, Lisa has also written God Found Us You, which is geared more toward adoptive families.

This will definitely be on my list of gift books!

I received a free copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah in exchange for my fair and honest review.

If you liked my review, please rank it for me.

When Sparrows Fall by Meg Moseley

When Sparrows Fall by Meg Moseley intrigued me from the very first page. It pulled me right in and I found myself on page two trying to figure out how it ended.

Miranda, widow and mother of six, finds herself in trouble when an accident forces her to call her estranged brother-in-law to act as guardian of her children. Once Jack arrives and takes charge, he begins to see all the strange things that go on with Miranda and the other families at her church.

I loved that this was not a simple romance but was a complex story involving love, faith, family, authority, and trust. Much of the story is centered around the extreme beliefs of some who call themselves Christians (I would call them cults) and discerning biblical truth versus the religious claims of man. Miranda relied heavily on prayer and fasting in order to hear from God, as well as conversations with godly friends. I wish there would have been a stronger focus on studying the Scriptures as she dealt with different problems. Also, there were a few bits that confused me a little. For instance, at the beginning, I got the feeling that Jack was not a Christian, but later he referred to his pastor and seemed more Christian-like. However, the copy I reviewed was an uncorrected proof, so this may be taken care of in the editing process.

Overall, this was an outstanding novel. I was thoroughly impressed with Meg Moseley's debut novel and can't wait to read more!

5 stars

I received a free copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah in exchange for my fair and honest review.

If you like my review, please take a minute to rank it for me!

About the Book
Freedom. Safety. Love. Miranda vows to reclaim them--for herself, and for her children.

A widow and mother of six, Miranda Hanford leads a quiet, private life. When the pastor of her close-knit church announces his plans to move the entire congregation to another state, Miranda jumps at the opportunity to dissolve ties with Mason Chandler and his controlling method of ruling his flock. But then Mason threatens to unearth secrets from her past, and Miranda feels trapped, terrified she’ll be unable to protect her children.

College professor Jack Hanford is more than surprised when he gets a call from his estranged sister-in-law’s oldest son, Timothy, informing him that Miranda has taken a serious fall and he has been named legal guardian of her children while she recovers. Quickly charmed by Miranda’s children, Jack brings some much-needed life into the sheltered household. But his constant challenging of the family’s conservative lifestyle makes the recovering mother uneasy and defensive—despite Jack’s unnerving appeal.

As Jack tries to make sense of the mysterious Miranda and the secrets she holds so tightly, Mason’s pressure on her increases. With her emotions stirring and freedom calling, can Miranda find a way to unshackle her family without losing everything?

About the Author
Meg Moseley is a Californian at heart although she’s lived more than half her life in other states. She formerly wrote human-interest columns for a suburban section of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, and home schooled for more than twenty years. Meg enjoys reading books, traveling, gardening, her three grown children, and motorcycle rides with her husband Jon. They make their home in northern Georgia.

Judgment Day by Wanda L. Dyson

Judgment Day by Wanda L. Dyson was surprisingly fantastic! Marcus and Alex are private investigators hired to investigate bogus murder charges against a local cable news star Suzanne. The further into the investigation they get, the more trouble they encounter. I love mysteries, but I'm a little particular about the ones that I choose to read. Judgment Day was a great blend of intensity, twists, and enjoyable characters. The novel flows a lot like a James Patterson novel. I was completely engrossed from the first chapter.

Note: The copy on the back of the book states that a senator was murdered in Suzanne's apartment. However, it is actually a nurse. This was a bit confusing.

4 stars

I received a free copy of this book from WaterBrook Multnomah in exchange for my fair and honest review.

If you liked my review, please take a moment to rank it.

About the Book
Sensational journalism has never been so deadly.

The weekly cable news show Judgment Day with Suzanne Kidwell promises to expose businessmen, religious leaders, and politicians for the lies they tell. Suzanne positions herself as a champion of ethics and morality with a backbone of steel—until a revelation of her shoddy investigation tactics and creative fact embellishing put her in hot water with her employers, putting her credibility in question and threatening her professional ambitions..

Bitter and angry, Suzanne returns home one day to find an entrepreneur she is investigating, John Edward Sterling, unconscious on her living room floor. Before the night is over, Sterling is dead, she has his blood on her hands, and the police are arresting her for murder. She needs help to prove her innocence, but her only hope, private investigator Marcus Crisp, is also her ex-fiancé–the man she betrayed in college.

Marcus and his partner Alexandria Fisher-Hawthorne reluctantly agree to take the case, but they won’t cut Suzanne any slack. Exposing her lack of ethics and the lives she’s destroyed in her fight for ratings does little to make them think Suzanne is innocent. But as Marcus digs into the mire of secrets surrounding her enemies, he unveils an alliance well-worth killing for. Now all he has to do is keep Suzanne and Alex alive long enough to prove it.

About the Author
Wanda Dyson lives on a working horse farm in Maryland, boarding and keeping a menagerie of critters. She is the author of four acclaimed suspense novels including Shepherd’s Fall and the co-author of Why I Jumped, the true story of Tina Zahn.

Sound good to you? Check out a sneak peek of the first two chapters and see for yourself!

Thrilling Suspense by Kristen Heitzmann

Indivisible by Kristen Heitzmann was a complete surprise. After reading another book by Heitzmann earlier this month, I expected more of the same (which was outstanding!). This book, however, was completely different, yet still excellent. Jonah, Tia, Piper, and Liz come together in a this suspenseful drama set in a small town in the mountains. Each battle their own demons from the past and struggle to find their way to a hopeful future. Strange things begin to happen in this little town and bring them all together to find out who the culprit is.

I love suspense fiction, and Indivisible delivered! It provided a wonderful blend of suspense and romance. The plot kept me guessing. I was about halfway through when the pieces started to come together and back stories were revealed ... which kept me flipping pages furiously to find out what was going on! The only thing that I didn't like about this book was that SO many bad things happened in this small town. It seemed pretty unrealistic at times, but it is fiction. I enjoyed this book and will definitely read more by Kristen Heitzmann in the future!

4 stars

I received a free copy of this book from WaterBrook Mulnomah in exchange for my fair and honest review.

I'd love it if you would take a minute to rank this review.

About the Book
Battling his own personal demons, Police Chief Jonah Westfall knows the dark side of life and has committed himself to eradicating it. When a pair of raccoons are found mutilated in Redford, Colorado, Jonah investigates the gruesome act, knowing the strange event could escalate and destroy the tranquility of his small mountain town. With a rising drug threat and never-ending conflict with Tia Manning, a formidable childhood friend with whom he has more than a passing history, Jonah fights for answers—and his fragile sobriety.

But he can’t penetrate every wound or secret—especially one fueled by a love and guilt teetering on madness.

From best-selling author Kristen Heitzmann comes a spellbinding tale of severed connections and the consequences of life lived alone.

About the Author
While home schooling her four kids, Kristen Heitzmann wrote her first novel. It became one of a five book historical series. Since then, she has written three more historical novels and eight contemporary romantic and psychological suspense novels including The Still of Night, nominated for the Colorado Book Award, The Tender Vine, a Christy Award finalist and Christy Award winning Secrets. She lives in Colorado with her husband Jim, sundry family members, and pets.

Read the first two chapters and check it out for yourself!