Echoes of Mercy by Kim Vogel Sawyer ~ A Blogging for Books Review

About Book

Sometimes a secret must be kept for the truth to be revealed. 
 

When a suspicious accident occurs at the famous Dinsmore Chocolate Factory in Sinclair, Kansas, Caroline Lang goes undercover as a factory worker to investigate the circumstances surrounding the event and how the factory treats its youngest employees—the child workers. Caroline’s fervent faith, her difficult childhood, and compassionate heart drove her to her job as an investigator for the Labor Commission and she is compelled to see children freed from such heavy adult responsibilities, to allow them to pursue an education.   

Oliver Dinsmore, heir to the Dinsmore candy dynasty, has his own investigation to conduct. Posing as a common worker known as “Ollie Moore,” he aims to find out all he can about the family business before he takes over for his father. Caroline and Oliver become fast friends, but tension mounts when the two find themselves at odds about the roles of child workers. Hiding their identities becomes even more difficult when fate brings them together over three children in desperate need. When all is revealed, will the truth destroy the love starting to grow between them?

About Author

Kim Vogel Sawyer is a best-selling, award-winning author highly acclaimed for her gentle stories of hope. More than one million copies of her books are currently in print. She lives in central Kansas where she and her retired military husband, Don, enjoy spoiling their ten granddarlings. 

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My Thoughts

Caroline Lang is a private investigator assigned to investigate suspicions of murder and illegal child labor among other crimes at chocolate factory. In order do so she goes undercover as a worker.   Unbeknownst to her Ollie Moore the janitor at the factory is also doing some undercover on his own. He is actually Oliver Dinsmore the son and heir of the factory.  As things start coming to light they decide to combine their efforts to uncover the deceit and illegal goings on in the factory.

Caroline had never given much thought to having a husband much less children until she met Ollie Moore and felt she could trust him with her life and her heart. 

The author has written a who done it mystery that will have your skin crawling and have you  watching over your shoulder while you read this book.  It may not be hard to guess who the villian is in the story,  it was getting the proof to convict the guilty party. 

I found it surprising anyone could find romance under such circumstances. The author shows us how God works miracles with the gift of love. This book will be a keeper for my personal library. 

I highly recommend this book. 

I rated this book a 5 out of 5.

Disclosure:  I received a free copy of this book from Waterbrook Multnomah/Blogging for Books for an honest review.

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.

Look What's On My Shelf! New Treasures of Love from Old Testament Tales Series by Mesu Andrews

An epic story of love and forgiveness, suffering and restoration...

When her beloved grandfather Isaac dies, Dinah must follow his final command: travel to Job's household to marry his son. After Job's world comes crashing down, Dinah finds herself drawn to this great man brought low. What will she risk to fight for his survival?

Mesu Andrews weaves an emotional and stirring account of Job and Dinah. Love Amid the Ashes breathes life, romance, and passion into the classic biblical story of suffering and steadfast faith.

ISBN 10: 0800734076
ISBN 13: 9780800734077
Where to buy: Amazon, Barnes&Noble, CBD, Family, Revell

For more information on Downloadable Excerpt, watch Book Trailer, Discussion Guide, Bible Study Questions, order Free bookmarks and to hear what people are saying about this book visit the Mesu Andrews Website here.

* * *

Wisdom came as God's gift, but sacred love was forged through passion's fire...

Standing in the shadow of his famous father, young King Solomon wavers between fear and bravado, longing for a love that is true and pure—a love that can be his cornerstone.

A shepherdess in the northern city of Shunem, Arielah has known since she first laid eyes on Solomon that it was her destiny to become his bride. When her father secures a promise from Solomon to marry Arielah as a treaty bride to help unite the kingdom, it seems her dreams will come true.

But how can this simple shepherdess live as part of Solomon's harem? Can Solomon set aside his distractions to give himself completely to just one woman? Or will he let duty, deception, and the daily routine divide his heart?

Mesu Andrews expertly weaves the words of the Song of Solomon into this touching story of the power of love from a master storyteller.

ISBN 10: 0800734084
ISBN 13: 9780800734084

Where to buy: Amazon, Barnes&Noble, CBD, Family, Revell

For more information on Downloadable Excerpt, watch Book Trailer, Discussion Guide, Bible Study Questions, order Free bookmarks and to hear what people are saying about this book visit the Mesu Andrews Website here.

* * *

Hosea has been charged by God with a difficult task—marry a prostitute in order to show God's people the nature and depth of his love for Israel...

When Hosea goes to Israel to proclaim God's message, the prostitute God tells him to marry turns out to be his childhood friend Gomer. He finds her broken and abused, unwilling to trust Hosea or his God. But when marrying Hosea becomes her only choice, Gomer does what she's good at—she survives. Can Hosea's love for God and God's love for Israel heal Gomer's broken spirit?

With her potent combination of in-depth research and masterful storytelling, Mesu Andrews brings to life a complex and fascinating biblical story of the power of love and forgiveness in the face of utter betrayal.

Broken Vessel Blog Tour

March 10-16, 2013 

information here.

ISBN 10: 0800721691
ISBN 13: 9780800721695

Where to buy: Amazon, Barnes&Noble, CBD, Revell

For more information on Downloadable Excerpt,  Discussion Guide, Bible Study Questions, order Free Bookmarks and to Hear What People are Saying about this book visit the Mesu Andrews Website here.

Mesa Andrews

Loving the Word for Life

Mesu Andrews and her husband, Roy, enjoyed fourteen years of pastoral ministry before moving to the Pacific Northwest to pursue the next step in God’s calling. They have two married daughters and live in Washington, where Mesu writes full time. The Andrews’ have a Rottweiler-pitbull named Bouzer, who keeps Mesu company while she enjoys her fireplace and hot coffee on rainy Northwest days. She loves movies, waterfalls, and travel.

Biblical fiction is her favorite genre to read and write. Her first novel, Love Amid the Ashes (Revell, 2011), won the 2012 ECPA Book of the Year in the Debut Author Category. Love’s Sacred Song (Revell, 2012), the Song of Solomon story, received a 4 ½ star rating from RT Reviews. And Love in a Broken Vessel (Revell), the story of Hosea and Gomer, is available now and received a 4 ½ star TOP PICK rating from RT Reviews. The Shadow of Jezebel is scheduled for release in March 2014.

Mesa Andrews website: http://www.mesuandrews.com/

Betrayal ~ Where the Heart Lives #2 by Robin Lee Hatcher

About Book

It’s the turn of the twentieth century and drifter Hugh Brennan is a man well acquainted with betrayal. Hugh finds himself drawn to the attractive widow, Julia, yet when he looks into her eyes, he recognizes the same hurt that haunts him.

Julia Grace has little reason to trust men, but she’s going to have to trust someone if she’s to keep her ranch from the clutches of her dead husband’s half-brother. Is it possible God had a hand in bringing Hugh to her door?

The latest historical romance from award-winning author Robin Lee Hatcher and the second book in the Where the Heart Lives series, Betrayal will take you to the high desert of western Wyoming, through the crags of the Rocky Mountains, and into the hearts of two seekers learning to trust God’s love no matter the circumstances.

Published by Zondervan
Publication Date: November 12, 2012
ISBN 13: 9780310258094

Where to buy:  Zondervan, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, CBD

About Robin

Robin Lee Hatcher is the bestselling author of over sixty-five books. Her well-drawn characters and heartwarming stories of faith, courage, and love have earned her both critical acclaim and the devotion of readers. Her numerous awards include the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, two RITA Awards for Best Inspirational Romance, Romantic Times Career Achievement Awards for Americana Romance and for Inspirational Fiction, and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award. Robin currently resides in Idaho. 

For more information, visit www.robinleehatcher.com.

My Thoughts

Julia Grace was pushed into a marriage that was suppose to remove her from the disreputable occupation at which her mother worked .  Her mother wanted a respectable life for her daughter and so much more.  Julia's husband showed her no respect and often abused her even during her pregnancy.  She prayed for God's protection.  Then one day husband became ill and died unexpectedly.  This left her to run a cattle ranch by herself.
Her brother-in-law keeps  trying to convince her to sell him the ranch and for her to take the money and move on.  He even hired her ranch hands to work on his ranch leaving her without any help working her ranch.  But Julia is determined to keep the ranch.  It is the only real home she has ever had and it was rightfully hers.  

About a year after her husband's death, a stranger stops shows up at ranch wanting water for his injured horse and possibly a place to rest the horse until it has healed.  Hugh Brennan offered the beautiful young widow to work on the ranch in exchange for meals and a place to bunk in the barn.  He was a hard worker and saw what needed to be done and got busy getting it done.  If thought if he stayed busy hopefully it would keep his mind off Julia.  He knew she was keeping her distance from him.

The author kept my attention with this story of two broken souls that have more than God in common.  She also writes of secrets, betrayal, and a need for love and trust in oneself but most of all God.

This was a quick read mainly because I did not want to put the book down.  I just love when a book can grab me the way this book did.  My heart ached for all the trials and tribulations these two people had to endure to get to God's greater plan for their lives.

I highly recommend this book.

I rated this book a 5 out of 5.

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from Zondervan for review.  I was in no way compensated for this review.  It is my own opinion.

If you found this review helpful vote yes or no here.

THE RIVER by Michael Neal

About Book

“You were made for The River . . .”

Gabriel Clarke is mysteriously drawn to The River, a ribbon of frothy white water carving its way through steep canyons high in the Colorado Rockies. The rushing waters beckon him to experience freedom and adventure.

But something holds him back—the memory of the terrible event he witnessed on The River when he was just five years old—something no child should ever see.

Chains of fear and resentment imprison Gabriel, keeping him from discovering the treasures of The River. He remains trapped, afraid to take hold of the life awaiting him.

When he returns to The River after years away, his heart knows he is finally home. His destiny is within reach. Claiming that destiny will be the hardest—and bravest—thing he has ever done.

Read Chapter 1,2 & 3 here

The River Discussion Kit

Publication Date	September 18, 2012
Publishes by	Thomas Nelson
ISBN-10	1401688489
ISBN-13	9781401688486

Where to buy: Thomas Nelson Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Christianbook.com

About Author

Gifted writer, performer, and masterful storyteller are all phrases used to describe Michael Neale.

With the highly anticipated September 2012 release of his first novel The River, as well as a second book, Your Great Name, which releases in October 2012, Michael is finding more and more ways to share his gift of storytelling as an author.

As a Dove Award-Winning songwriter, his songs have been recorded by artists such as Michael W. Smith (“Rise Above”), Natalie Grant (“Your Great Name,” Worship Song of the Year in 2012), Rebecca St. James (“In A Moment”), Todd Agnew (“I Need No Other”), and Phillips, Craig and Dean (“Saved the Day”), to name a few.

Michael divides his time among leading worship in churches, songwriting, and being a featured leader and teacher at conferences around the country. In between his travels, Michael serves on the team of Worship Leaders at Christ Fellowship Church in Palm Beach Gardens, FL, where he lives with his wife Leah, and their three children Micah, Maisie, and Wyatt.

My Thoughts

I love this quote from the book "Life is not to be merely survived--it is meant to be lived." 

One of my favorite excerpts from the book is on page 272 where Gabriel is sitting outside with Ezra looking out at THE RIVER.  Don't read it until you have read up to that page!  It will move you beyond measure.

~ ~ ~

When Gabriel Clarke was five years old he watched THE RIVER take his father.  Ever since that day Gabriel has flashback, reliving that day which causes him to to to a special place deep inside of himself.  Gabriel has bad days when the memories haunt him. Even his friends are aware that Gabriel is different at times and it has something to do with THE RIVER and his father.  His best friend Jimmy seems to always have his back.  

Gabriel and him mom rent a place from Mister Earl and his wife on a farm in Kansas which is nothing like Colorado where he had lived with his father. 

As Gabriel turns twenty he is even more restless than ever.  He is working at the five and dime but he wants so much more for himself.  Then one day at work he receives a call from his old friend Jimmy.  Jimmy wants Gabriel to go on a trip camping and rafting with some buddies in Colorado.   Gabriel was hesitant at first then decided it would be good to get away.  

When they got to the campsite Gabriel meets THE RIVER  that has haunted him for years.  

Will Gabriel go back into that secret place deep within himself or will he face his fears and THE RIVER?

This is a beautiful heart wrenching story of loss, redemption and coming face to face with ones fears. The author shows how friends and family can be instrumental in God's plan to heal an  injured lost soul.  This story may even be instrumental in helping other injured lost souls. Maybe that is even you. There are many ways to become lost.

I HIGHLY 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.  It is my own opinion.

If you found this review helpful vote yes or no here.

Wagon Train Recipe Contest - New Release TWICE A BRIDE, Book 4 of Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek Series by Mona Hodgson

Celebrating the release of the last book

 in Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek Series

Read Chapter Excerpts from these books at http://www.monahodgson.com/

CONTEST: Wagon Train Recipe Contest with Mona Hodgson

Entry period expires October 31st, 2012.

Mona Hodgson is hosting a recipe contest to celebrate the release of the final book in her Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek series, as well as to celebrate her upcoming Hearts Seeking Home series!

Enter your favorite family recipe, invite your friends and family to vote, and your recipe may be published in the first book of Mona's Hearts Seeking Home series next year!

Entries must be received between Oct. 3, 2012 and Oct. 31, 2012.  All entries must be original and unpublished, and are limited to one per person. Voting will be open to everyone starting Nov. 5, 2012 through Nov. 30, 2012, on Mona Hodgson's  website.  Mona and her husband, Bob, will cook or bake the three recipes with the most votes by Nov. 30, and will select a winner. The winning entry will be published in the first book of the Hearts Seeking Home series, coming August 2013!

For  more details, visit Mona's blog post about this contest.

Please read the complete rules here.

I am looking forward to doing a post/review
 later this month of TWICE A BRIDE for 

Blogging for Books/Waterbrook Multnomah, Waterbrook Press.

Saving Bobby by Crystal Cattabriga

About Crystal 

I was born and raised in Massachusetts and moved to Georgia in 2004. I'm the mother of three beautiful children, Zackary 18, Blayke 13, and Ema 10. I've been married for 10 years to a wonderful man who always seems to keep me grounded. When I'm not writing novels, I enjoy reading, going to the movies with my children, walking through trails, and bowling. We have three dogs and several cats. Living my life as it is, I feel blessed, so I always remember to pay it forward to others. I've been a Partner's in Hope member of St. Jude's Hospital since 2006 and give to my local community, The Sharing and Caring Place in GA.


Website  http://www.crystalcattabriga.com
Twitter   http://twitter.com/c​cattabriga
Genre    Children's Books, Young Adult, Religion & Spirituality

About Book 


ISBN-13: 9781466306882
Publisher: CreateSpace
Publication date: 11/20/2011
Pages: 246

When Bobby's world came crashing down on his thirteenth birthday he knew his life would never be the same again. After losing most of his family before ever becoming a teenager. Bobby was determined not to lose the only person who had truly loved him and was always there for him; his mom. Struggling with the fear of losing his mother to cancer Bobby takes it upon himself running away in search for a way to save her. Along Bobby's journey, he meets Annie, a 'runaway.' Together, they embark on a road where they both find a friendship that will last forever and the true meaning of God. Will Bobby save his mother in time and will Annie go back to the life she had? Experience this journey with Bobby and Annie and feel the power of true determination, and what God can do if you just let him into your heart....

   

 My Thoughts

Thirteen year old Bobby is on a quest to find more time or a kidney donor for his mom.  She is in desperate need of a new kidney due to cancer. She is all he has left in this world.  He has no other relatives other than his uncle and they recently got notice from the military that his uncle is missing in action.  But he doesn't believe them, he feels in his gut that his uncle is alive.  

Bobby is staying with a family friend while his mom is in the hospital.  He decides to sneak out one night without telling anyone and hits the streets for answers that might help his mom. When he starts out on this quest he makes friends with a young girl, Annie and she joins him on his journey. It is very clear that Annie has a personal relationship with God.  Bobby doesn't know God or what He is capable of doing if he would just believe in Him.  Bobby watches Annie as she share her beliefs with strangers about the power of  prayer if only they would have faith in God.   Annie tries to tell Bobby who God is and about Jesus.  But he isn't sure he believes or trust what Annie says about God. 

Any mom reading this story will freak at the idea of this young boy out on the streets alone.  And why does so many people know this girl Annie and don't seem to be concerned about her?  Where is her parents? Why is she on the streets?  Why doesn't she want to go home?  I had so many questions running through my mind.  

This may be a Young Adult book but don't let that stop you from reading this book.  Also you better make sure you have a box of tissues at hand  because you will need them.  

I have had this book on my to read list for some time now.  I am so glad I was able to work it into my schedule.  I'm sure you will enjoy this book as much as I did.

I highly recommend this book!

I rate this book 5 out of 5.

Disclosure
I received a free copy of this book from the author for review.  I was in no way compensated for this review.  It is my own opinion.