WINTER IN FULL BLOOM by ANITA HIGMAN ~ Litfuse Group Tour

About Winter in Full Bloom: 

Lily Winter's wings are folded so tightly around her daughter that when empty nest arrives, she feels she can no longer fly. But Lily's lonely, widowed life changes in a heartbeat when she goes to visit a woman who is almost a stranger to her---a woman who also happens to be her mother. During their fiery reunion, her mother reveals a dark family secret that she'd been hiding for decades---Lily has an identical twin sister who was put up for adoption when they were just babies.

Without looking back, Lily---with her fear of flying---boards a jumbo jet and embarks on a quest to find her sister which leads half way around the world to Melbourne, Australia. Befriended by imprudent Ausie, he might prove to be the key to finding her sister. But her journey becomes a circle that leads her back home to attempt a family reunion and to find the one dream she no longer imagined possible-the chance to fall in love again.

Purchase the Book: http://ow.ly/nIIcx

Meet Anita: 

Best-selling and award-winning author, Anita Higman, has over thirty books published (several coauthored) for adults and children. She's been a Barnes & Noble "Author of the Month" for Houston and has a BA degree, combining speech communication, psychology, and art. Anita loves good movies, exotic teas, and brunch with her friends.

Connect with Anita at: www.anitahigman.com 

Landing page: 

http://litfusegroup.com/author/ahigman

Anita Higman's latest novel, Winter in Full Bloom, has just released. She's teamed up with her publisher, River North Fiction, for a fun giveaway and a Facebook Author Chat Party on August 29th.

 
  One grand prize winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire HD
• Winter in Full Bloom by Anita Higman

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on August 28th.Winner will be announced August 29th at the Winter in Full Bloom Author Chat Party on Facebook. During the party Anita will be hosting a book chat, talking about family, announcing the winner of the Kindle Fire, and giving away a ton of books, gift certificates, and more. Oh, and she'll also be giving party goers an exclusive look at her next book.

So grab your copy of Winter in Full Bloom and join Anita on the evening of August 29th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven’t read the book, don’t let that stop you from coming!)

DON’T MISS A MOMENT OF THE FUN; RSVP TODAY. HOPE TO SEE YOU ON THE 29th!

My Thoughts

Lily is overwhelmed with the many changes in her life.  After having a confrontation with her estranged mother she decides to take an unexpected trip to Melbourne. She knew her relationship with her parents was not normal  and that she needed to find that missing link.  No sooner than she arrives in Australia she becomes depressed and not sure where to go or even what to do next.  As she sits crying on a park bench a man shows concern for her well being.  As their friendship grows throughout the day he offers to help her with her family mystery.  She begins to wonder if he would play an important role in restoring her relationship with her family.

It was really hard to put this book down.  The author created a tragic tale about Lily that appeared to be irreconcilable and writes of how God has a plan if only she has faith in Him.  People were put in Lily's path to help fulfill His plan.  I know people can't see God's plan when facing trials and tribulations but as time goes by he shows us his plan.  The author put her heart and soul in this story.  

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 Group and River North/Moody Publishers  for review.  I was in no way compensated for this review.  This review is my honest opinion.

THE QUARRYMAN'S BRIDE, LAND OF SHINING WATER, Book 2, by TRACIE PETERSON ~ LITFUSE BLOG TOUR

About Book

The latest book in the Land of Shining Waters series.

Peterson Hits the Bestseller Lists Again and Again!

Emmalyne Knox and Tavin MacLachlan were destined to be together . . . until the tragic deaths of Emmalyne's youngest sisters. Family tradition mandates that the youngest daughter should remain single to care for her parents in their old age, and now that daughter is Emmalyne. Her father unyielding, Emmalyne surrenders to her duty, heartbroken. Tavin leaves town, equally devastated.

Years later, Emmalyne's family moves, and she and Tavin meet again. Their feelings for each other are as strong as ever, but their painful past and Emmalyne's father still stand between them. Soon both families are in the midst of the growing conflict rising between the workers at the granite quarry that Tavin's father owns and operates. When a series of near-fatal accidents occur, Tavin must figure out who is behind the attacks before someone gets killed.

Bound by obligation, yet yearning for a future together, can Emmalyne and Tavin dare to dream that God could heal a decade-long wound and change the hearts of those who would stand in the way of true love?

Read Excerpt here.

• ISBN-13: 9780764206207
• Publisher: Baker Publishing Group/Bethany House
• Publication date: 6/1/2013
• Series: Land of Shining Water Series , #2
• Pages: 336

Where to Purchase: Baker Retail, Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, Christianbook.com

About Author

Tracie Peterson is the award-winning author of over eighty novels, both historical and contemporary. Her avid research resonates in her stories, as seen in her bestselling Heirs of Montana, and Alaskan Quest series. Tracie and her family make their home in Montana. 

Visit Tracie's Web site at www.traciepeterson.com

Landing Page/Tour Schedule: http://litfusegroup.com/author/tpeterson

  

Q&A with Tracie Peterson

Q. Tell us why you wrote The Quarryman’s Bride.

I wanted to write a story that would deal with old family traditions that get in the way of true love and life in general. I also wanted to utilize the Minnesota quarry business setting to share some of the historical aspects of life in that region. As I began to develop my research, I found so many interesting things about quarry work and life in Minnesota that it created a wonderful foundation for the book.

Q. Where in Minnesota did you set this story?

I chose the city of St. Cloud. The area has a wonderful park—the Quarry State Park—where you can walk around and see some of the old quarry works.

Q. What did you do to research this story?

I was able to spend some quality time in the St. Cloud area and get a firsthand look at granite quarries and the work required to get the rock out of the ground. I visited local museums and talked to people who worked in and around quarries, along with reading a great many books that helped me to better understand what quarry workers were up against in the late 1800s. This was difficult and dangerous work to be sure. I also wanted to have a cultural flavor for my story, and I chose those of Scottish heritage since they were heavily involved in quarry work. I’ve been to Scotland and have Scottish heritage myself, so I found it quite interesting to dig deeper and learn more about the traditions that existed.

Q. What’s the basic premise for this story?

Emmalyne and Tavin have been in love since they were young. Their wedding, however, is called off when a tragedy takes the lives of Emmalyne’s younger sisters. In her family there is a tradition that the youngest daughter remains unmarried to care for the aging parents. With the death of her sisters, Emmalyne must now take on that responsibility. Her father puts an end to the engagement and they move away, leaving Emmalyne and Tavin torn apart. Emmalyne desires to be obedient to her father and mother—to honor them as the Bible says. But at the same time she longs to reunite with the only man she’ll ever love. How can God possibly soften the hard hearts of two bitter men without crushing the dreams and hopes of a loving young woman?

Q. What is the basic spiritual message you want readers to take away from this story?

I wanted to address what it means to honor your mother and father. What does God expect of adult children in the ways of honoring and caring for their parents? I also wanted to show the painful consequences of the choices people make and how often one seemingly small event can ripple down through the years to completely alter lives.

Q. What did you enjoy most about writing this book?

I loved the time I spent walking around Quarry State Park in St. Cloud. It was like another world. The setting transported me in time, and I could almost see myself there in the late 1890s. I love the way God works to show me things in that way. And it’s always such a pleasure to find people from the area who love their history. Minnesota folks are great, and they are proud of their heritage. I also did some additional research while in Scotland, learning about the Celtic language and traditional Scottish recipes. I even made a few to share with my family as I wrote about them in the story.

Q. What’s on the horizon for book 3 in this series?

Book 3 is set in the Ely, Minnesota, area and deals with Italian immigrants and iron mining. This story has a bit of a Romeo and Juliet theme with a strong spiritual message of learning to let go of past wrongs and forgive for the sake of the present and the future.

Welcome to the campaign page for Tracie Peterson's newest book in the Land of the Shining Water series, The Quarryman's Bride. Tracie is celebrating with a "True Love" $200 Anthropologie giveaway and a Facebook Author Chat Party.

 One winner will receive:

• A $200 Anthropologie gift card
• The Quarryman's Bride and The Icecutter's Daughter by Tracie Peterson

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on July 8th. Winner will be announced at the "The Quarryman's Bride" Facebook Author Chat Party on July 9th. Connect with Tracie for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Tracie will also share an exclusive look at the next book in the Land of Shining Water series and give away books and other fun prizes throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of The Quarryman's Bride and join Tracie on the evening of July 9th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Hope to see you on the 9th!

My Thoughts

Emmalyne Knox and her family have suffered a great loss but Emmalyne is forced to suffer even more.  She is to break her promise of marriage to the love of her life Tavis MacLachlan to fulfill a Scottish tradition honoring her parents. She will see to her parents needs in their old age and she will never marry.  The love Tavis had for Emmie has now turned to an attitude of hatred which caused even more pain for Emmie.  As if all of this was not enough her father has decided to move to another state taking her further away from the quarry, Tavis and all her friends.  She wonders if her father has any love for God or his family .

Eleven years have passed and Emmie's father is moving their family back so he can work at the quarry owned by Tavis's father.  How will Tavis react to her family living a mere three miles from his parent's home?

This story caused me to have great sorrow for those under Emmalyne's father's tyranny.  The author has touched on a subject that has severe effects on a families emotional and physical being.  The character Emmie was created by the author to be a loyal daughter to her parents and to God.  The author shows how fear and loss of loved ones can eat a person alive until there is nothing left but bitterness.  Only God can heal such pain and that is how the author writes her story of love, forgiveness and reconciliation.

I highly recommend this book.

I rated this book a 5 out of 5.

Disclosure:  I received a free copy of this book from Baker Publishing Group/Bethany House and Litfuse Publicity Group for review.

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

Road To the Christy's 2013 ~ WILDFLOWERS FROM WINTER by KATIE GANSHERT

Wildflowers from Winter by Katie Ganshert

A 2013 Christy Award Nominee 

for

 Contemporary Romance SERIES, SEQUELS, AND NOVELLAS

Visit the Christy Awards Website

About 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?

Release date: May, 8 2012
Publisher: Waterbrook Press
ISBN-10: 0307730387
ISBN-13: 978-0307730381

Where to buy: 
Amazon
Barnes & Noble 
ChristianBook.com

Wildflowers from Winter by Katie Ganshert (Chapter 1 Excerpt)


About Katie

Katie Ganshert was born and raised in the Midwest, where she writes stories about finding faith and falling in love. When she’s not busy plotting her next novel, she enjoys watching movies with her husband, playing make-believe with her wild-child of a son, and chatting with her girlfriends over bagels. She and her husband are in the process of adopting from the Congo.

You can find her online at her blog and on Facebook.

Wildflowers from Winter: A Devotional

He led you through the vast and dreadful wilderness, that thirsty and waterless land, with its venomous snakes and scorpions. He brought you water out of hard rock.

-Deuteronomy 8:15

I met a woman once who lived in Kibera, the biggest slum in subSahara Africa. She slept in a tiny shack with six kids, three of whom weren't her own. Her husband had left. She was sick with AIDS. Yet she was lit from within, beaming with the hope of Christ.

If I close my eyes right now, I can see her. And most likely, five years later, she’s no longer sick. She’s no longer living in a shack. She’s rejoicing with the One who gave her that hope.

I have a friend who struggled for three years with infertility. She and her husband were faithful and obedient to the Lord. So why wouldn’t He give them the child they yearned for? They had no idea God was using that time to lead them down a different path. A path toward adoption. A path toward their daughter.

When I think of that African woman, when I think about my friend, I picture wildflowers.

Do you know the harshest, snowiest winters produce some of the most beautiful wildflowers in the spring?

I love when truth reveals itself in nature.

Because this is truth.

God uses what the human eye sees as cold and harsh and lifeless, to bring about beautiful things. Breathtaking things.

Like a once-snowy field bursting with wildflowers.

Like an infertile woman who realizes she doesn’t have to get pregnant to be a mother.

Like a woman riddled with sickness, steeped in poverty, yet beaming with hope.

Lord Jesus, thank you for being a God who can redeem the most barren times in our lives. Thank you for being a God who brings beauty from pain. Help us to trust You, no matter our circumstance or season. Help us to trust that You are faithful and You are good.

Are you trusting God to bring water from the hard rocks in your life?

*   *   *

My Thoughts

Bethany Quinn is a fortress until disaster strikes.  That is when the memories of her tortured soul comes creeping out.  All she wants to do is push past memories back so she can continue with her successful career in Chicago as an architect.

She is no longer the penniless, pitiful little girl of her youth.  The memories she refuses to think about are as if they were yesterday. The only pleasant memory she has is of her loving grandfather, Dan and her best friend, Robin.  She has not seen them in ten years.

While Bethany is busy at work her cell phone rings and it is her mother whom she has no desire to speak with.  But the calls become persistent and so she calls her mother back.  Her mother tells her that Robin's husband was in an accident and is in a coma.  The doctor gives little if any hope.  After fighting the old memories and debating whether or not to go be with her friend she receives another call.  A man by the name of Evan Price calls with the bad news that her grandfather has had a heat attack.  Her decision has been made, she has to be with her grandfather.  While she is there she will consider visiting her old friend.

Arriving at her grandfather's farm there is a man she assumes as Evan Price standing in the doorway.  Come to find out he has been hired to help work the farm.  He looks worn out and as if he hasn't slept in days.

As the story continues it gets more stressful for Bethany and Evan. They have been thrown together and  are not too happy about the situation.  It seems they both have their own demons to deal with.  One of them has a strong relationship with God but the other does not acknowledge God at all.

If we keep sliding away from God, He sends his disciples to help nurture the seeds that had been planted in order that we can grow toward Him and away from our the demons we created in ourselves.

I want to share this from the book.
"The rational part of Robin's brain knew better. But grief had obliterated her ability to think rationally. Grief was the royal flush in a hand of poker.  It beat everything."   
Have you been there before?  I know I have.

This is a soul searching story of reconciliation, repentance, faith, hope and love.

The first part of this book is one traumatic event after another.  It even began to traumatize me.
But you have to know it was very well written. Had to be the way it had me all worked up.   When you are reading this book just be sure to have some tissues close by, you will definitely need them.

I highly recommend this book.

I rated this book a 5 out of 5.

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

All In Good Time ~ The Gilded Legacy # 2, by Maureen Lang

About Book

Dessa Caldwell has a dream: to open Pierson House, a refuge for former prostitutes in Denver’s roughest neighborhood. But after exhausting all charitable donations, Dessa still needs a loan, and nearly every bank in town has turned her down. Her last hope hinges on the owner of Hawkins National Bank.

Henry Hawkins has a secret: though he owns the most successful bank in town, his initial capital came from three successful raids on Wells Fargo coaches. Now he’s the most eligible bachelor in Denver, but to protect his criminal past, he’s built a fortress around his heart. Not even the boldest matchmaking mother can tempt him . . . until the day Dessa Caldwell ventures into his bank requesting a loan.

Though he’s certain her proposal is a bad investment, Henry is drawn to Dessa’s passion. But that same passion drives her to make rash decisions about Pierson House . . . and about whom she can trust. One man might hold the key to the future of her mission—but he also threatens to bring Henry’s darkest secrets to light. As the walls around their hearts begin to crumble, Henry and Dessa must choose between their plans and God’s, between safety and love.

Binding:

Softcover

ISBN:

978-1-4143-6447-6

Release Date:

April 2013

Pages:

400

Trim Size:

5 1/2 x 8 1/4

Where to Purchase Book: Amazon, Barnes&Noble, CBD, Walmart

About Maureen Lang

Maureen Lang is the award-winning author of more than ten novels. She's always had a passion for writing, particularly stories that combine romance and history. After writing for the general market for several years, she wrote her debut inspirational novel, Pieces of Silver, which was a Christy Award finalist in the historical category. She has since written seven novels, including a recent trilogy of romances set against the dramatic backdrop of WWI—Look to the East, Whisper on the Wind, and Springtime of the Spirit. She turns to more peaceful (though no less dramatic) times in Bees in the Butterfly Garden, her upcoming release set among Fifth Avenue's finest during the Gilded Age of New York.

In addition to critical acclaim, Maureen's writing has garnered numerous industry honors. She has won the Romance Writers of America Golden Heart award, the Inspirational Reader's Choice Contest, and a Holt Medallion, and has been a finalist for Romance Writers of America's Rita, the American Christian Fiction Writers' Carol awards, and the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence. Visit her online at www.maureenlang.com.

My Thoughts

Dessa Caldwell grieves for her friend Sophia Pierson, they had planned on starting a home for women who are caught up in white slavery and prostitution.  Dessa is determined to carry out this dream.  She has found a house in a not so respectable area that would be perfect in every way especially the price.  But she needs a loan from the bank.

Henry Hawkins owns the local bank and his Uncle has just approved a large loan to Dessa Caldwell without his final approval.  When she insist on thanking him, he could not take his eyes off her.  He now had no intention of cancelling the loan.  He doubted she would have any success with her venture but he had to admire her determination.   

A local businessman of questionable reputation becomes enamored with Dessa and her cause, or will she become a pawn in his own plans.  Although he is very attractive and acts the gentleman she has her doubts about his sincerity.  Henry tries to warn her to not associate herself or the Pierson House with this man.  She could loose everything she has worked so hard to build. 

In this book the author brings to light white slavery and also of Chinese women sold into slavery.  Women had few rights in 1887.  Some married women were no better than slaves being forced to marry just for financial gain for their parents.  In arranged and loveless marriages husbands abused their wives.  In reading this story it is also very apparent employment opportunities were lacking for women, which caused some to starve or turn to prostitution.

The author did her research which made for an very interesting read. I am looking forward to her next book.

I highly recommend this book.

I rated this book a 5 out of 5.

Disclosure:  I received a free copy of this book from Tyndale Blog Network/Tyndale House for review.  I was in no way compensated for this review.  This review is my honest opinion.

Catherine's Pursuit ~ McKenna's Daughters Series, Book 3 ~ by Lena Nelson Dooley ~ Giveaway

The search for her sisters will become a spiritual journey for the entire family.

Raised by her father, Catherine McKenna has never lacked for anything, surrounded by people to take care of her every need. On her eighteenth birthday she discovers that not only did her mother die when she was born, but she has two identical sisters. Although her father vowed not to look for his daughters, Catherine made no such promise. Setting out on her own with one clue and her maid in tow, she's determined to find her sisters.

Collin Elliott has seen better days. After losing his ship to a violent and unexpected storm, he is trying to recover--physically and emotionally. When Angus McKenna sends him to find, follow, and protect his daughter, he wants nothing more than to finish his task and return home. Can he help her find her sisters?

And will the discoveries they make along the way teach them both what's most important in life?

What people are saying about "Catherine's Pursuit".

"A heartwarming tale filled with history, adventure, faith, and love." --Lisa Wingate, bestselling and award-winning author of Dandelion Summer and Firefly Island

Author: Lena Nelson Dooley

Title: Catherine's Pursuit

Series: McKenna's Daughters, book 3

ISBN-10: 1621360199

ISBN-13: 978-1621360193

BISAC: FICTION / Christian / Romance / Historical

Buy links: Amazon, CBD, Barnes&Noble

About Lena Nelson Dooley

Award-winning author, Lena Nelson Dooley, has more than 700,000 books in print.

Helping other authors become published really floats her boat, with over 20 signing their first book contract after her mentoring. Three of her books have been awarded the Carol Award silver pins, and she has received the ACFW Mentor of the Year award. The high point of her day is receiving feedback from her readers, especially people whose lives have been changed by her books.

Her 2010 release Love Finds You in Golden, New Mexico, won the 2011 Will Rogers Medallion Award for excellence in publishing Western Fiction. Maggie’s Journey appeared on a reviewers Top Ten Books of 2011 list. It also won the 2012 Selah award for Historical Novel. Mary’s Blessing released in May 2012. It recently appeared on a review site’s Top Five Reads in 2012 list. Catherine’s Pursuit is coming in February 2013.

In addition to her writing, Lena is a frequent speaker at women’s groups, writers groups, and at both regional and national conferences. She has spoken in six states and internationally. She is also one of the co-hosts of the Gate Beautiful blog radio show.

Lena has an active web presence on Shoutlife, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Linkedin and with her internationally connected blog where she interviews other authors and promotes their books.

Find her online here:

Website: www.lenanelsondooley.com

Blog: Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/lenandooley/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/lena.nelson.dooley

Twitter: www.twitter.com/lenandooley  

Official Fan Page: www.facebook.com/pages/Lena-Nelson-Dooley/42960748768?ref=ts

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/333031.Lena_Nelson_Dooley

Shoutlife: www.shoutlife.com/lenanelsondooley

Blogtalk Radio: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/search/gate-beautiful-radio-show/

Other blogs where she’s a regular contributor:

http://christianfictionhistoricalsociety.blogspot.com/

http://justthewritecharisma.blogspot.com/

http://www.bustlesandspurs.com/

GIVEAWAY ~ U.S. residents only

Provided by Lena Nelson Dooley

Win a Paperback Copy of 

Catherine's Pursuit

 1 Winner

Just leave a comment below with your email.

(I need your email to contact you if you are the winner)

Ends April 5th, 2013

Winner announced on April 6th, 2013

My Thoughts:

Catherine McKenna is all excited about her party.  She is turning eighteen years old and her father has arranged a party for the special occasion.  When she heads downstairs she hears raised voices. As she nears the source, it is apparent her father and Aunt are arguing about something her Aunt felt her father should tell Catherine.  She surprised both of them by asking her father what was it that he needed to tell her.  He looked very upset and he was pale.  He apologized and told her there was something he had been keeping from her but had planned telling her when she was older.  That something was, that when she was born she was a triplet and had two other sisters at which time her mother died giving birth.   Her father walked out of the not able to say more.  From this she assumed her sisters had died at birth along with her mother.  When she discovered her sisters were alive and had been adopted by two different families. She schemed to sneak away to find them taking her maid and only leaving a note for her father.   She had little information to go on but she was a spoiled headstrong girl not aware of the danger she might confront.

Collin Elliot has recovered from an injury he acquired when he was Captain of a McKenna ship.  He felt like a  failure because the ship sank but was able to save the crew.  Angus McKenna had offered Collin a job to find his daughter and protect her at any cost.  Just what Collin wanted to do was track down the spoiled Ice Princess.

Sure enough when he found her she was being accosted by a drunk.  He intervened for her until the drunk called her Mary Murray, which was her sister's name.  Could this drunk really know her sister?  Collin kept trying to keep the drunk away from her and when she realizes that Collin is her father's employee she agreed to let him continue on with them to find her sisters.  Was she close to finding Mary?  Even though she thinks Collin is handsome he may become a problem in her quest to find her sisters.

Lena Nelson Dooley writes of the third McKenna daughter and the search to put all three girls together again.  It was funny, heartbreaking, mysterious, adventurous and romantic.  It was the whole package an amazing series wrapped up in a big bow.  Angus McKenna  finally forgives himself by the grace of God and prays to be reconnected with all three of his daughters.  Could Angus possibly wish for more?  Leave it up to this author to give more!

I highly recommend this book.

I rated this book a 5 out of 5.

Disclosure:  I won a free copy of this book from the author's.  I was not required to write a review.  This is my honest opinion.

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

Grace Given, Touch of Grace Series, Book Two by Beth Shriver

About Book

Elsie Yoder can’t forgive her sister, Katie, for leaving the community. Unable to let go of her sadness, she withdraws from her friends and family, nursing her feelings of betrayal.

Gideon Lapp has held a special place in his heart for Elsie and longs to help her get through her troubles. Together they find comfort in their study of the Martyr’s Mirror, a centuries-old book that describes their ancestors’ sacrifices for their faith through years of persecution.

As Elsie opens up and begins to put her trust in Gideon, she tells him about the harassment she and her sister received at the hands of some local men. When the men return and threaten the community, Elsie and Gideon must stand together to do what is right. But can Elsie learn to give grace and to humble herself to accept grace as well?

Paperback, 340 pages

ISBN 13: 9781621360179 
Release date: January 2013
Publisher: Realms

Where to purchase:  Amazon, Barnes&Noble, CBD, Walmart


About Beth Shriver

Childhood memories of her grandfather's ranch came alive as Beth wrote her first Amish story. Her parents grew up in the country, so she appreciates pastoral life and respects those who make a living off the land. She visits a nearby Amish community just south of Fort-Worth for an occasional church service or brunch with the bishop and his wife. And on the way home she stops at the community store to get some plum jam! 

Beth received a degree in social work and psychology from the University of Nebraska. She worked as a caseworker for Boulder County Department of Social Services before starting a family. Beth and her husband, two children, along with two cats and a beagle live in Texas after moving from their first home in Colorado. She freelances for the local papers in her area and writes columns, devotionals for magazines, and novels in a variety of genres in both fiction and nonfiction. Represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Literary Agency 

Favorite quote and Bible verse
I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else. C. S. Lewis 

Philippians 4:6-7-Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God, and the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

My Thoughts

Elsie Yoder can't seem to pull herself out of a depression caused by her sister Katie.  Katie has betrayed her sister and left the community.  Will Elsie be able to forgive her sister?  No matter the turn of events Elsie misses her sister and wants her to come home.  Their father does not wish to even talk about Katie, it pains him too much.

Gideon Lapp wants Elsie to be able to open up to him because he holds a special place in his heart for Elsie.  He encourages her to interact with the rest of the community.  She becomes interested in studying Martyrs Mirror with Gideon.  

Elsie has many secrets that is eating her alive, one of which is some local men, not of the Amish community, have been harassing her even before her sister left.  She finally confides in Gideon and reveals her secrets of  the harassment not only toward her but to the Amish community.  The young men have no fear of retaliation because they know the Amish will not use means of violence or by pressing charges against them.  

Can Elsie forgive herself therefore humble herself to the community and to accept God's Grace?  In doing so she will be free of the fear that grows within her.  How will they deal with the local men?  

In book two the author writes of the necessity of community support spiritually and physically. It reminds me of the verse.  Matthew 18:20  For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

The author also writes of humbling oneself and accepting Grace which is a gift from God!   Beth also reminds  us that we must put on the Armor of God.  He gives us so much to fight the evil that tries to oppress us because of our belief in a loving God.

I highly recommend this book.

I rated this book a 5 out of 5.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from Charisma House/Realms for review.  I was in no way compensated for this review.  It is my honest opinion.

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



Read my review of Book 1, Touch of Grace, Annie's Truth by Beth Shriver here.