Sunday, March 30, 2014

Quilts of Love | A SKY WITHOUT STARS by Linda S. Clare – Kindle HDX Giveaway & “Spring Fling” Facebook Party!

About Book

A Sky Without Stars | A Quilts of Love Book
In 1951, Frankie Chasing Bear is a Lakota caught between cultures. She wants to raise her son Harold to revere his Lakota heritage, but she knows he will need to become as a white man to succeed. After his father’s killed in a barroom brawl, Harold and Frankie move to Arizona, where she begins a Lakota Star pattern quilt for Harold with tribal wisdom sung, sewn and prayed into it.
She distrusts Christians, as her own parents were forced to convert at an Indian School, until she meets BIA agent Nick Vandergriff, a half-Lakota who’s also caught between cultures. Nick must convince Frankie that white men and Christians aren’t all bad as he tries to win her heart in order to put the stars back into her sky.

About Author
Linda S. Clare is an award-winning coauthor of three books, including "Lost Boys and the Moms Who Love Them" (with Melody Carlson and Heather Kopp), "Revealed: Spiritual Reality in a Makeover World," and "Making Peace with a Dangerous God" (with Kristen Johnson Ingram). She is also the author of "The Fence My Father Built." She has taught college-level creative writing classes for seven years, and edits and mentors writers. She also is a frequent writing conference presenter and church retreat leader. She and her husband of thirty-one years have four grown children, including a set of twins. They live in Eugene, Oregon, with their five wayward cats: Oliver, Xena the Warrior Kitty, Paladine, Melchior, and Mamma Mia!

Don't miss this month's Quilts of Love book, A Star Without Stars, by Linda S. Clare. Linda is celebrating the release with a Kindle HDX giveaway and joining her fellow Quilts of Love authors, Barbara Cameron and Joyce Magnin, for a Facebook "Spring Fling" party on April 1st.

qol-skywithoutstars-400-click

  One winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Fire HDX
  • Scraps of Evidence by Barbara Cameron
  • A Sky Without Stars by Linda S. Clare
  • Maybelle in Stitches by Joyce Magnin
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 1st. Winner will be announced at the "Spring Fling" Facebook Party on April 1st. RSVP today and connect with the authors from the Quilts of Love series, Barbara Cameron, Linda S. Clare, and Joyce Magnin, for an evening of book chat, quilt trivia, prizes, and an exclusive look at the next Quilts of Love book!

So grab your copies of Scraps of EvidenceA Sky Without Stars, and Maybelle in Stitches and join Barbara, Linda, and Joyce on the evening of April 1st for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the books, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN at the event page. Spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway and party via FACEBOOK or TWITTER. Hope to see you on April 1st!



My Thoughts

In 1951, Frankie Chasing Bear is determined to give her son Harold a better chance at life. Frankie convinces the Navajo School Board to allow her to earn her school diploma.  Her son is also enrolled in the same school to continue his education.  She becomes aware of prejudice against the Indians especially from Mrs.Green. Then school is robbed and Frankie is not comfortable at all the finger pointing. 

Harold at age ten becomes restless about their move and is anxious about his Lakota heritage needing to be near his deceased father and wanting to seek his rights to manhood.  Frankie is very aware of her son's desire to go back to his Lakota home. 

On several occasions when she was having problems with her son a Federal Agent Nick Parker for the reservation comes to their rescue. His shadowing her is appreciated but she will never trust another man especial not one that is only part Lakota and a Christian. 

Frankie Chasing Bear refuses to trust the white man's God her grandmother so wanted Frankie to know was her only hope.  Frankie had promised her grandmother she would make her son a Lakota Star pattern quilt which would reveal a great secret for life. As she worked on the quilt she could feel the wisdom of her Grandmother coming through to her.

I read this book in one night.  I did not want to put it down.  This was a new look into the lives of  American Indians in the nineteen-fifties.  I was very aware of my anger at the prejudice they were faced with in the guise of their best interest.  

Then there was the misplaced and misunderstood person that was not full blood Indian.  They were often looked down upon causing them not to know which world they belonged. 

The author created some unforgettable characters which I would love to revisit their lives.  

I highly recommend this book.

I rated this book a 5+ out of 5.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group/Abingdon Press for review.  I was in no way compensated for this review. This review is my honest opinion.


Friday, March 28, 2014

DANCING WITH FIREFLIES || RSVP for April 10th Facebook Party and enter to win a Kindle HDX from @DeniseAHunter!

Don't miss Denise Hunter's latest Chapel Springs Romance, Dancing with Fireflies. Reviewers have already labeled Dancing with Fireflies "swoon-worthy" and "the perfect love story." 

Join Denise in celebrating the release of her new book by entering her Kindle HDX giveaway and RSVPing for her April 10th Facebook party.


fireflies-400-click

One winner will receive:
  • A brand new Kindle Fire HDX
  • Dancing with Fireflies and Barefoot Summer by Denise Hunter
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 10th. Winner will be announced at the Dancing with Fireflies Facebook Party on April 10th. Connect with Denise for an evening of prizes, book chat, and an exclusive look at the next book in the series.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN on the event page. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 10th!



Blog Touring Schedule 3/24 – 4/10

Sunday, March 23, 2014

CD Tour – Touching Sky by Stephanie Boyd

Touching Sky


Touching Sky

With a fresh and energizing sound, Stephanie Boyd’s debut album Touching Sky will put a smile on your face and a skip in your step. Unique lyrics, heartfelt vocals and top quality production will inspire and uplift you. With brand new original songs and a novel take on some favorite hymns, this CD will stay with you every day of the week.






StephanieAbout Stephanie Boyd

Growing up in New York, Stephanie was drawn to the power of music from a young age. While she was originally trained in classical singing, Stephanie always gravitated towards more upbeat and modern music. With her debut album, Touching Sky, Stephanie combines her love of traditional messages with fresh music. Since moving to Utah, Stephanie has worked closely with well-known artists including Jenny Phillips, Tyler Castleton, and Michael McLean. She was also featured soloist with Sally DeFord. She has a master’s degree in environmental science she and her husband have enjoyed building and selling businesses together. Stephanie is married with four children (and one on the way!) and likes to read, garden, run and bake fun birthday cakes.

My Thoughts

Beautiful woman with God's gift for music and singing.  If I had to pick two songs from this album as favorites it would be, STORM BEFORE THE CALM and GOOD FOR THE SOUL.  Her voice is energizing yet calm and soothing to the soul.  Good for the soul.  Her husband and children are lucky to have this woman sing to them from her soul with such an amazing voice. 

The album is full of uplifting music to inspire you as you go through your daily routine. 

I highly recommend this album CD.

I rated this album a 5 out of 5.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this CD from Stephanie Boyd via Book Blast Tours for review.  I was in no way compensated for this review.  This review is my honest opinion.


Friday, March 21, 2014

Scraps of Evidence, Quilts of Love #14, by Barbara Cameron

About Book

Tess has taken some ribbing from her fellow officer, Logan, for her quilting hobby. He finds it hard to align the brisk professional officer he patrols with during the day with the one who quilts in her off-time. Besides, he's been trying to get to know her better and he'd like to be seeing her during those couple nights a week she spends with her quilting guild.

Then one afternoon Tess and Logan visit her aunt in the nursing home and she acts agitated when Tess covers her with the story quilt. Aunt Susan seems to be communicating a message to them about Tess's uncle. There's a story behind this quilt, they realize, one that may lead them to a serial killer. Will they have a chance to have a future together or will the killer choose Tess for his next victim before they find him?

Learn more about this book and the series at the Quilts of Love website.

 Purchase here



About Author
Barbara Cameron is a best-selling author who has a heart for writing about the spiritual values and simple joys of the Amish. She is the author of more than 38 fiction and nonfiction books, three nationally televised movies, and the winner of the first Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Award. Barbara is a former newspaper reporter. Some of her non-fiction titles include the “Everything Weddings on a Budget Book” and “Her Restless Heart: A Woman’s Longing for Love and Acceptance.” Cameron currently resides in Edgewater, Florida.
Find out more about Barbara at http://barbaracameron.com.



My Thoughts 

Tess is ready for her first day as a detective.  The day starts with meeting a new detective by the name of Logan from Chicago.  He is very nice to look at and not nearly as full of himself as she had imagined.  The day started going downhill when it was announced that Logan was to be her partner.  Then before she could finish giving him a tour of the town they get a call about an apparent murder victim.  Tess updates Logan about the town's serial killer which has now taken the life of another woman.

Tess's Aunt Kathy owns a quilting shop and they spend a lot of time together quilting which is her way of relieving stress. Her Aunt Kathy is married the Chief's right hand man Gordon whom Tess find obnoxious at times especially in his treatment towards her Aunt.

Tess and Logan spend more time together even when they were off duty.  She began to worry that it would interfere with their time on the job.  They could not deny the attraction. What path has God set for Tess and Logan?

As Tess and Logan work at solving the case of the serial killer they find unexpected clues in an heirloom quilt. The killer feels the need to kill again in order to keep secrets hidden. 

The author kept me glued to this book guessing at the turn of every page who might be the killer only to keep me bound to the story until the end of the book to find the real killer.  I felt many emotions anger at spousal abuse, fear of the killer, tenderness for young love and happiness that good conquers evil.  Divine justice will prevail.

I highly recommend this book.

I rated this book a 5 out 5.

Disclosure:  I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group/Abingdon Press for review. I was in no way compensated for this review.  This review is my honest opinion.


Monday, March 17, 2014

Plain Peace, A Daughters of the Promise Novel by Melissa Jagears

About Book
Anna's grandfather seems determined to ruin her Rumspringa . . . and any hopes she has of finding a husband.
Anna Byler should be enjoying her Rumspringa as allowed by her faith. But because of the strict rules enforced by her grandfather—the bishop—the available suitors in town are afraid to court her. Even Anna’s grandmother is keeping a big secret from Anna’s grandfather in an effort to keep the peace. Under her grandfather’s oppressive watch, Anna begins to feel her faith slipping and wonders if God has forsaken her.
Jacob Hostetler and his family have relocated to Lancaster County following a family tragedy in Ohio. As his family struggles to rebuild their lives, Jacob is forced to act as head of the household when his father is unable to cope with recent events. It’s been a long time since Jacob has felt any joy. Until he meets Anna Byler. But will Anna’s grandfather succeed at keeping them apart? And can Jacob put the past behind him and open his heart?

Publication DateNovember 12, 2013
Company
  • Thomas Nelson
ISBN-101401685943
ISBN-139781401685942




Beth Wiseman is an award-winning and best-selling author who is best known for her Amish novels, but she is now spreading her wings in other genres as well.  Her two latest releases—Need You Now and The House that Love Built—are non-Amish contemporaries set in small Texas towns, both of which have garnished glowing reviews.  However, her current project will take readers far away from Amish Country and small Texas towns to a dangerous place on the other side of the world.  Inspired by a true story, Beth believes this is the book she’s been working toward for a long time.   More information on this exciting project will be coming soon!  
Visit Beth's websitehttps://bethwiseman.com/
Follow her Facebook Fan Page  and Twitter Page


My Thoughts

Anna Byler's is raised by her grandparents. In her opinion they are the best  grandparents ever. Although to the young men that would like to invite her to the singing are give her a ride in their buggy her grandfather is unapproachable on the subject. Anna is totally ignorant of the young men's problem with her grandfather. That is until she overhears them talking about this very thing.  She gave them a good tongue lashing and informed them  they were wrong.  To her disappointment they were right. On top of this other people in their Amish community had problems with her grandfather being so strict when it came to the Old Order Ways of the Amish. You see her grandfather is the Bishop for their Amish Community.  

Anna even found out her grandmother was hiding things from her grandfather.  So, why is he being so strict? Doesn't he know he is alienating himself from the community?

When Jacob Hosetler moves to Paradise he is determined to change the Bishop's mind and court Anna.  With Anna, her grandmother and Jacob taking a stand to change the Bishop's strict ways they find they may have gotten in deeper than they ever expected. The Bishop is determined to stand his ground.

This was a fun read.  So much love in this family but the author has managed to create in them a very dysfunctional family.  She shows how seeds of deceit can tear not only a family apart but the whole community.  A tender loving man yet hard as a rock when it came to Old Order Ways. The character of the grandmother was so sweet yet she had a compulsive disorder.  The author has a wonderful and humorous  imagination when it comes to creating her characters.  

I wonder if we can see any of ourselves in any of these characters.  Like the seamstress that hoards fabric or the person that is obsessed with shoes.   I must admit I do see myself in that  I can not have enough books.  So you leave know wiggle room when it comes to the rules of house or church? 

I gladly recommend this book.

I rated this book a 5+ out of 5.

Disclosure:  I received a free copy of this book from Booksneeze/Thomas Nelson for review.  I was in no way compensated for this review.  This review is my honest opinion.


What Once Was Lost by Kim Vogel Sawyer

About This Book

A woman meant to serve, a child in the dark, a man standing apart—can these three souls embrace a God with new plans for them?

On a small Kansas farm, Christina Willems lovingly shepherds a group of poor and displaced individuals who count on her leadership and have come to see the Brambleville Asylum for the Poor as their home. But when a fire breaks out in the kitchen leaving the house uninhabitable, she must scramble to find shelter for all in her care, scattering her dear “family.”

With no other options, Christina is forced to approach Levi Jonnson, a reclusive mill owner, to take in a young blind boy named Tommy Kilgore. Levi agrees with reluctance but finds himself surprised by the bond that quickly grows between him and Tommy. As obstacles to repairing the farm pile up against Christina, she begins to question her leadership ability and wonders if she can fulfill the mission to which she's dedicated her life. And when an old adversary challenges Christina, will she find an unlikely ally—or more—in the aloof Levi? Can Levi reconcile with the rejection that led to his hermit-like existence and open his heart and life to something more, especially a relationship with a loving God?

See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?work=221537#sthash.WVhnm19G.dpuf





About Author:


Kim Vogel Sawyer is a best-selling author highly acclaimed for her gentle stories of hope. More than one million copies of her books are in print and have garnered awards including the ACFW Carol Award, the Inspirational Readers Choice Award, and the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence. Kim lives in Kansas, where she and her retired military husband, Don, run a bed-and-breakfast inn with the help of their four feline companions. She enjoys spending time with her three daughters and nine grandchildren.   


See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/author-spotlight.php?authorid=162648#sthash.oXneAdLR.dpuf


My Thoughts 

Christina has a mission to help the down and out the misplaced and homeless including orphaned children. Just when things seem to be going well on the Poor Farm the house catches fire leaving even Christina homeless. She finds places for everyone to stay until the house can be repaired except for Tommy a blind child.  She convinces the mill owner and recluse Levi Johnson to temporarily take in Tommy until she can make other arrangements.  There did not seem to be anyone sympathetic to this young boys needs. Levi tried not to bond with the boy but his heart continued to soften for the lad even though Levi did  not want to open his heart to anyone.  

Christina leans on Levi more and more while trying to get the house repaired.  This was not setting well with Levi.  He is suspicious of how the fire was started that damaged the Poor Farm.  Will they ever be able to return to the farm or will they be homeless again? Where will they go from here?

I found this to be a heartwarming tale that I did not want to put down.  I had never heard of a Poor Farm and found ite b a wonderful concept. Growing their own food and raising farm animals.  Homeless adults caring for orphaned children. This farm was almost totally self sufficient. God had a plan one that was not expected.  When we lead it makes it hard when God wants us to follow his path.  The author has a tender heart and a great vision that she is able to bring forth in her writings.  

I highly recommend this book.  

I rated this book a 5 out of 5.

Disclosure:  I receiving a free copy of this book from Blogging for Books/WATERBROOK PRESS for review. I was in no way compensated for this review.  This review is my honest opinion.



Promise to Return A Novel (Part of Promise of Sunrise) By Elizabeth Byler Younts

About Book

When World War II breaks out, Miriam Coblentz’s peaceful Amish world is turned upside down... 

It’s 1943, and Miriam Coblentz and Henry Mast are nearing their wed­ding day when the unthinkable happens—Henry is drafted. However, since he is a part of the pacifist Amish tradition, Henry is sent to a conscientious objector Civilian Public Service camp. When he leaves for the work camp, his gaping absence turns Miriam’s life upside down. Little does she know it’s only the beginning... When Henry returns home, he brings news that shakes Miriam and their Amish community to the core. Henry believes God has called him to enlist in the army and fight for his country, leaving her to make an impor­tant decision: whether to choose loyalty to the peaceful life she’s always known or her love for Henry. Two worlds collide in this unforgettable debut novel, providing a fasci­nating and rare look into Amish culture during World War II. While Henry is battling enemies across the ocean, Miriam struggles between her devotion to Henry and her love of the Amish way of life. One question is at the bottom of it all: will she follow the rules of her religion or the leading of her heart?  


See more at: http://books.simonandschuster.com/Promise-to-Return/Elizabeth-Byler-Younts/Promise-of-Sunrise/9781476735016#sthash.XkC78CLI.dpuf

 Where to buy: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, CBD


About Author

Elizabeth Byler Younts is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers. She is an Air Force officer’s wife and a homeschooling mom with two young daughters. She makes her home wherever her family is stationed. Elizabeth was Amish as a child and after her parents left the church she still grew up among her Amish family and continues to speak Pennsylvania Dutch.

Where to find Elizabeth:
Website: http://elizabethbyleryounts.com/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AuthorElizabethBylerYounts
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ElizabethYounts
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/ElizabethYounts/


My Thoughts

Miriam Coblentz can't seem to stop thinking about her intended Henry Mast.  Henry has been drafted into the military and sent to a camp for conscientious objectors.  The Amish have always been pacifist.  When he returns home Miriam is shocked to find out he has decide to leave the camp and join the military and the war.  He feels as if God has called him to fight  in World War II.  Miriam can not turn her back on her family and most importantly the her Amish beliefs.  Will she turn her back on Henry the man she loves?

I have read many Amish books but this is the first where I get a better look at the Pacifist side during World War II.  To me it is apparent men are bred to defend their families and country.  Yet I understand the Amish's belief and the pacifist.  Women want to nurture and prevent harm coming to anyone.  But in times of war we have no choice but to defend.  The author has done a wonderful job in depicting the Amish stand of remaining pacifist.  

I highly recommend this book.


I rated this book 5 out of 5.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from Howard Publishing/Simon & Schuster for review.  I was in no way compensated for this review.  This review is my honest opinion.


Sunday, March 16, 2014

The Traitor's Wife, The Woman Behind Benedict Arnold and The Plan To Betray America by Allison Pataki

About Book:

A riveting historical novel about Peggy Shippen Arnold, the cunning wife of Benedict Arnold and mastermind behind America’s most infamous act of treason . . . 

Everyone knows Benedict Arnold—the Revolutionary War general who betrayed America and fled to the British—as history’s most notorious turncoat. Many know Arnold’s co-conspirator, Major John André, who was apprehended with Arnold’s documents in his boots and hanged at the orders of General George Washington. But few know of the integral third character in the plot: a charming young woman who not only contributed to the betrayal but orchestrated it. 

Socialite Peggy Shippen is half Benedict Arnold’s age when she seduces the war hero during his stint as military commander of Philadelphia. Blinded by his young bride’s beauty and wit, Arnold does not realize that she harbors a secret: loyalty to the British. Nor does he know that she hides a past romance with the handsome British spy John André. Peggy watches as her husband, crippled from battle wounds and in debt from years of service to the colonies, grows ever more disillusioned with his hero, Washington, and the American cause. Together with her former love and her disaffected husband, Peggy hatches the plot to deliver West Point to the British and, in exchange, win fame and fortune for herself and Arnold. 

Told from the perspective of Peggy’s maid, whose faith in the new nation inspires her to intervene in her mistress’s affairs even when it could cost her everything, The Traitor’s Wife brings these infamous figures to life, illuminating the sordid details and the love triangle that nearly destroyed the American fight for freedom.  

See more at: http://books.simonandschuster.com/Traitors-Wife/Allison-Pataki/9781476738604#sthash.wdVDdaoB.dpuf







Meet Author Allison Pataki

Allison Pataki graduated Cum Laude from Yale University and has spent several years writing for TV and online news outlets, including ABCNews.com and FoxNews.com. The daughter of former New YorkThe Traitor’s Wife based on the rich Revolutionary War history of her hometown in New York State’s Hudson Highlands. The Traitor’s Wife is Allison’s first novel. She lives in Chicago with her husband, David.
State Governor George E. Pataki, Allison was inspired to write 
- See more at: http://authors.simonandschuster.com/Allison-Pataki/411626438#sthash.atmdKTLj.dcpuf
My Thoughts

Most of you are familiar with Benedict Arnold from you studies in History class. He is known for being ihe world famous traitor.  But I bet you didn't know that his wife was his ultimate instrument in his downfall. She was much younger than Benedict and very beautiful. She saw him as her way of reaching her ultimate goal  for fame and fortune.   

Peggy Shippen delivers her husband Benedict the plans to secure West Point into the hands of the British betraying America.  All this for her own vanity of fame and fortune.  

Peggy's personal maid has given what she sees as the accounts and events of her mistress's plot to betray America which we know backfired on her and Benedict.  

The book is 464 pages of Peggy's deception, greed and vanity. I had no idea this women even exsisted.   I actually felt sorry for Benedict anyone being taken in by such a she devil. Who knows how his life may have unfolded if he had not fallen into her trap. 

I keep saying in my reviews how I love historical novels. Thanks to authors like Allison Pataki for helping me continue my education in such an enjoyable way.  The author has also provided a reading group guide with topics and questions for discussions.  Also a conversation with Allison Patiaki  of questions and answers along with a way to enhance your book  club.

I highly recommend this book.

I rated this book a +5 out of 5.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from Howard Books/Simon & Schuster


Where Courage Calls by Janette Oke and Laurel Oke Logan

About the book: 

Her courage and her heart will be tested in ways she never expected . . .

Beth Thatcher has spent her entire life in the safe, comfortable world of her family, her friends, and the social outings her father's wealth provides. But Beth is about to leave it all behind to accept a teaching position in the rugged foothills of western Canada. Inspired by her aunt Elizabeth, who went west to teach school several years ago, and gently encouraged by her father, Beth resolves to put her trust in God and bravely face any challenge that comes her way.

But the conditions in Coal Valley are even worse than she'd feared. A recent mining accident has left the town grieving and at the mercy of the mining company. The children have had very little prior education, and many of the locals don't even speak English. There isn't even a proper schoolhouse. In addition, Beth's heart is torn between two young men---both Mounties, one a lifelong friend and the other a kind, quiet man who comes to her aid more than once.

Despite the many challenges, Beth is determined to make a difference in the rustic frontier town. But when her sister visits from the East, reminding her of all the luxuries she's had to give up, will Beth decide to return to her privileged life as soon as the school year is over?

Purchase a copy and read an excerpt: http://ow.ly/tyWJH 


About Authors:

Janette Oke Celebrated for her significant contribution to the Christian book industry, Janette Oke is the recipient of numerous awards. Her novels have sold more than 30 million copies and are beloved by readers around the world. Janette lives with her husband, Edward, in Alberta, Canada. 

Laurel Oke Logan is the daughter of Edward and Janette Oke, is the author of "Janette Oke: A Heart for the Prairie," as well as the novel "Dana's Valley," which she co-wrote with her mom. Laurel and her husband have six children and two sons-in-law and live near Indianapolis, Indiana.



My Thoughts

Beth is made to endure a going away party her mother has arranged for her which was against Beth's wishes.  Her mother has invited the very elite of society.  He main comfort and support at the party is her father.  Beth has taken a teaching position in the remote foothills of western Canada.  This is a great undertaking for such a refined lady but she is sure she up to the challenge. After all her aunt had taken a teaching position in a remote area in Canada several years back.  

When Beth arrives at her destination of Coal Valley the conditions were poor.  The families had very little in shelter, clothing and food.  Many of the families had lost their husbands and fathers in a mine cave in.  She is also informed she will be holding school in a pool hall.  Her mother would be mortified.  To her great pleasure the people of this mining town were mostly pleasant.  The town was protected by the Canadian Mounties.  Which gave her a small sense of security.

This was an informative read.  I remember watching shows with the very impressive Canadian Mounties.  I like historical novels and this book was an exceptional read .  

The authors write of a brave woman that takes on such an adventure where she would be in danger on a daily basis.  This was the wilderness of all wilderness.  She had a very big heart and a great desire to teach children in order to give them a chance at a better life.  

I see Janette Oke as one of these women cutting a path for our young women to follow in her footsteps.  I have so much love and respect for women authors who have given me many hours of reading pleasure.  

I highly recommend this book.

I rated this book a 5 out of 5.

Disclosure:  I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group/Bethany House for review. I was in no way compensated for this review.  This review is my honest opinion.


 

A Miracle of Hope, Amish Wonders Series, Book 1 by Ruth Reid

About the book: 

Book One in the Amish Wonders series.

How far can God's mercy reach?

Lindie Wyse is pregnant out of wedlock and thinks an arranged marriage is the only way to preserve her future. Josiah Plank is certain he'll never love again, but he needs someone to care for his eight-year-old daughter, Hannah. The two take on their arrangement tentatively at first but soon realize they are each in for more than they imagined.

Lindie experiences a breakthrough with Hannah when she recognizes Hannah's special gifts, but a risky pregnancy and serious health issues threaten to demolish the foundation Josiah and Lindie are building. Will their growing love survive despite their struggles, or will their hearts become as cold as the northern winter?

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/sABNg


About the author: 

Ruth Reid is a CBA and ECPA best-selling author of the Heaven on Earth series. She's a full-time pharmacist who resides in Florida with her husband and three children.

Find out more about Ruth at: http://ruthreid.comhoughts



My Thoughts

Eli Wyse has made arrangements with his widower friend Joshiah  to marry Eli's sister Lindie.  Lindie is pregnant and is not given a choice in the matter . When Josiah meets Lindie he offers her a way out even though he is in dire need of a helpmate.  His daughter Hannah is deaf and needs constant supervision because she tends to wander off into the woods.  He also makes it clear to Lindie he will not share his love with her.  So they decide to live together yet apart.

Lindie becomes very attached to Hannah. The child appears to be gifted by God. With all that needs to be done as a new wife and mother she begins having complications with her pregnancy.

As time goes by they can't stop their growing feelings from tuning into love and respect for each other.

Such heartache is evident within the these newly weds.  God works miracles in this family as they work through their trials and tribulations.  The author has written a heart wrenching tale building up the spirits of these characters having them learn to have faith and trust in each other through the intercession of God.  Yes it began as a heart wrenching tale and then turned into a heartwarming tale. It is not a fairy tale but a fictional account of a family given a chance for a new beginning.

I highly recommend this book.

I rated this book a 5 out of 5.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from Litfuse Publicity Group/Thomas Nelson for review.  I was in no way compensated for this review. This review is my honest opinion.