Song of Silence

"There are moments in life, seasons in life, when it seems that God goes silent. We wait. We listen. Nothing. No movement. No stirring. No signs of hope or relief. In the silence, it's tempting to believe nothing is happening. Good musicians understand the crucial role silence plays in music. The pause creates tension. They give weight to what is about to come or what has just passes. These silences are not empty, dead space. They're the crucial, fertile silences that make a song what it is. Musically speaking, in the silence, something is happening.

"In your season of waiting on God to speak, don't be fooled into thinking that just because nothing's happening, nothing's happening. In the silence, a song is brewing. Even now, in the quiet pause, in the desperate waiting between what was and what is to come, a song is being composed. You are becoming, and this becoming is not empty and passive. It's active, fertile and alive no matter how hidden it may seem to your ears. Wherever you find yourself waiting...keep composing. Keep becoming. Keep hoping and listening. Somewhere beneath the silence that is your life, a faint chord is striking, a song is brewing. - Brad Nelson, Restoration Living" (pg 201-201).

Such profound advice for retired music teacher Lucy Tuttle who finds herself afloat in her life without a sure way to figure out what is next. Being forced into early retirement when the school board votes to eliminate the music program, she feels like she has no voice. No song left to sing. Her husband Charlie, who has been retired is looking forward to this chapter of their life where he has hopes of spending it with Lucy. Lucy realizes how much this early retirement will cut into their finances and can't seem to get her head above water long enough to figure out what she is going to do.

Her daughter Olivia, needs to move home temporarily while she finishes up school and at the same time, her son just announces that he is getting married to someone who he has barely known at all. Along with that relationship comes the fact of dealing with Sasha who is deaf and her son Evan who has Asperger's. Just how much more can one woman be expected to deal with at this stage in her life when age seems to play an imminent role in her finding another teaching position. The last thing she wants to do is hang out with her husband Charlie who is considering going into the worm farm business and Lucy would make the perfect partner.

I received Song of Silence by Cynthia Ruchti compliments of Abingdon Press and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This is such a great novel as I find myself considering entering the work force at the same age as Lucy is and wondering how I will be received. I couldn't imagine dealing with all that she is faced with all at the same time. Love her HHATT group, her doctor has her meet with and can only hope I can form my own such group to share my inner most woman feelings with to those who can truly understand. For me, this one easily goes down as a 5 out of 5 stars and a Reader's Discussion Guide is included for those real book clubs to enjoy! I hope Cynthia decides to expand this into a series of the women we meet in Lucy's HHATT group! Would love to know their stories!

For more information about Song of Silence, Cynthia Ruchti or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

Song of Silence by Cynthia Ruchti

You can find Cynthia Ruchti on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

For more reviews on Song of Silence, please visit Litfuse Publicity's Book Tour Page.


As the music fades and a chasm separates her from the passion of her heart, will Lucy's faith song go silent, too? Find out in Cynthia Ruchti's new book, Song of Silence. The musical score of her life seems to be missing all the notes. When a simple misstep threatens to silence Lucy forever, a young boy and his soundless mother change the way she sees—and hears—everything.

Celebrate the release of Song of Silence with a blog tour and giveaway. Two winners will be chosen!

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of Song of Silence
• A $150 Visa cash card

One second place winner will receive:

• A copy of Song of Silence
• A music-themed prize pack filled with goodies hand-picked by Cynthia

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry! The giveaway ends on May 9th. The winners will be announced May 10th on Cynthia's blog.

Close To You

Some novels when you turn the last page, you give a collective sigh! Not because you're glad you finished it but because it was simply that good, you don't want it to end. Kara Isaac is about to become one of my must have authors, because in her debut novel Close To You, she takes a wonderful idea for fans of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit and spins a contemporary romance that is guaranteed to make you laugh, cry and hopefully have that wonderful sigh when you finish it as well.

Close to You involves Allison Shire, who is spending her time as a tour guide working for Southern Luxury Tours, a high end tour company that spares no expense when it comes to taking Tolkien fans of both movies to all the locations in New Zealand where they filmed the movies. She even manages to don Hobbit attire right down to the feet in an effort to make her clients feel like they have gotten their monies worth on the tour. She is dealing with a 2 year long court battle with her supposed husband Derek to have their marriage annulled, not because they don't love each other, but because Derek married her knowing he was already married to someone else in an effort to gain a passport to New Zealand and escape his gambling debt with ones who break legs over demanding payment. She just hopes the answer comes soon so her financial assets can be unfrozen and she can move forward in her life. The last thing she would expect is to fall in love with someone else.

Jackson Gregory is at the end of his proverbial rope. Without his Uncle Louis' financial support, he won't be able to pay back his investors some 5 million dollars for an investment that went bad, when his girlfriend Nicole, decided to sell all his investment secrets to his competitor and leave him with nothing. The only reason he has been invited on this tour to New Zealand is because his Uncle is a long-time Tolkien fan and he is filling in for the assistant that quit on him last minute. Even though he knows nothing about Tolkien, he will do whatever it takes to convince his Uncle to take a financial risk on him even if it means dressing up in Lord of the Rings attire. I mean how hard can it really be?

I received Close to You by Kara Isaac compliments of Howard Books, a division of Simon and Schuster Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this novel in exchange for my honest personal evaluation. This blends comedy when the two meet and it's not the right kind of sparks that begin to fly. It is a hate-hate relationship that begins as Allie realizes that Jackson is a Tolkien fraud and attempts to expose him to his employer the first change she gets, but when she winds up to her neck in mud, she will have to make a desperate call to the one person who can free her from her unpredictable situation. This novel will have you wanting to re-watch all of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films and who knows perhaps book your own tour of New Zealand to find a love that lasts! This one easily garners a 5 out of 5 rings/or stars in my book and I can't wait for more from this talented and amazing author.

For more information about Close to You, Kara Isaac or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Close to You by Kara Isaac

You can find Kara Isaac on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Close to You, please visit Howard Book's website. 

A Dream of Miracles

I can't imagine dealing with the loss of a spouse, especially when you have children and the idea of single parenting becomes a reality. However if you take the idea of having a small child with a lot of health problems and amplify that with a doctor who believes these numerous doctor's visits may be a masquerade for child abuse, you pretty much have the premise behind A Dream of Miracles, the third book in the Amish Wonders series from Ruth Reid.

It takes a typical Amish story line and adds a bit of "House" to the mix. While the signs are all pointing to the fact that Mattie Diener might in fact be more than neglectful in trying to raise two small children just 18 months after losing her young husband in his sleep. When her established family doctor takes a long sabbatical, his replacement is less likely to see things from an Amish perspective and when Mattie fails to notice simple things in her child's illness, she reports her for child abuse.

Now enter Bo Lambright, who has worked for the office of Child and Protective Services for quite some time and experience has taught him that no matter how simple things might look, there is always more than meets the eye, especially in his line of work, where parents will face imprisonment if found guilty, so lying is something he has come to expect from parents. When he is called in to investigate the claims on Mattie, he wonders if perhaps there might just be more than what everyone would expects. He knows that the Amish are very protective of their families and communities, but it doesn't mean they aren't capable of child abuse as well. When his past comes back to him in dreams, God might just be pointing out the truth that is hidden in the dark. It may in fact cost one mother everything in the end if the facts don't come to the light.

I received A Dream of Miracles by Ruth Reid compliments of Thomas Nelson Publishers and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation, aside from a free copy of this novel, in exchange for my honest and personal evaluation. I really LOVED the premise in this novel and it felt like an Amish episode of the television series, House. It was that great! Just when you think Mattie will be cleared, another issue comes up and she is faced with making the decision to take her child in to the doctors and face losing him, or does she try and find a cure herself and spare having her children taken from her. Well worth every single 5 out of 5 stars. Now I want to go back and read the first two novels in the series, A Miracle of Hope and A Woodland Miracle. There is also a Reader's Discussion Guide included at the end that makes this perfect for book clubs.

For more information about A Dream of Miracle, Ruth Reid or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

A Dream of Miracles by Ruth Reid

You can find Ruth Reid on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on A Dream of Miracles, please visit Litfuse Publicity's Book Tour Page.


When a suspicious outsider with a shadowy past comes crashing into Amish widow Mattie’s fragile world, can she learn to love again? Find out in Ruth Reid's new book, A Dream of Miracles. When Mattie and Bo cross paths, all signs point to disaster. Yet as they face a crucible of trials and tragedies together, longings begin to stir that seem destined only to end in more heartbreak. Is a miracle possible—not only of healing but of forbidden love? What secrets lie in Bo’s dreams? And will Mattie find the courage to face her uncertain future . . . or will she simply run away?

Ruth is celebrating the release of A Dream of Miracles with a Kindle Fire HD 6 giveaway (details below) and an author chat party on May 3!

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• One copy of A Dream of Miracles
• A Kindle Fire HD 6

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on 5/3. The winner will be announced at A Dream of Miracles Facebook party. RSVP for a chance to connect with Ruth and other fans of Amish fiction, as well as for a chance to win other prizes!

RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK, TWITTER, or PINTEREST and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 3rd!

AWE

"I wonder what they will say about me when I'm gone. When they've all gathered like we are today in this church, dressed in our best, saying good-bye. I wonder how old I'll be, and if I've lived a good life, and if I'm known for anything.

"I think about this in passing; mostly I'm just wondering if I'll see Marvel here. If maybe I'll have an opportunity to say more to her than I have in a long, long time. We haven't spoken much. Not since Halloween and the misery it brought.

"November passed, ending with a no-so-thankful Thanksgiving. Today is the second day in December and it's still warm enough to rain but cold enough to make you shiver.

"I'm sad, of course. Nobody wants to be at a funeral. But I guess I could've seen this coming. In fact, in a way I did.

We did.

In another life we connected, and he helped us to do so." (pg 1).

Travis Thrasher once more takes readers into a compelling look at the lives of two very remarkable, strong and yet unsual characters in his latest novel Awe. This is the third book in the Books of Marvella series and one I am confident if you love something different in your suspense series, you are guaranteed to find it. Brandon Jeffery's is finishing up his senior year in high school and has been more than infatuated with Marvella since she came to town. Most unusual and one to keep to herself, Brandon seems to find a key to unlock the wall she keeps around her. She would say it was there for your protection, not hers.

But at the opening of this novel, Marvel and Brandon's relationship is at a stand still. Marvel has put a barrier in place because she believes God has called her to this small town in order to save it from the evil that has begun to permeate it by taking the life of the students one by one in accidents the police remain clueless to solve. There are a bunch of creepy characters they have to contend with such as Marvel's Uncle Carlos who has threatened Brandon with killing him if he doesn't stop seeing Marvel. There is the random encounters Carlos has in the bad places in town with a man name Otis Sykes, again someone they are warned to stay far away from.

But with the recent disappearance of Brandon's best friend Devon, he believes he might still be alive. He feels it in his gut. Devon believed that he might be able to get close enough to figure out who has been murdering the students, until he disappeared. Just who is to blame. All Brandon knows is that he received a text on Devon's phone warning him if he didn't stop being so nosy, his girlfriend would be next. He hasn't shown the message to anyone including the police. Because the last thing he knows is he will do anything to protect Marvel, but it may take an act of God to put Brandon's true faith to the test.

I received Awe by Travis Thrasher compliments of Lucas Lane Productions for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation and the opinions found here are my personal and honest ones. There is something dark and silent about Travis's series, one I can't quite put my finger on. It's like knowing that there is something in the dark, you can't see, but know its there. It's the waiting. Travis does such an amazing job at giving the reader just enough to keep him going but not enough to completely give it away. I am still left wondering how this will all turn out in the end, with only one more novel in the series, Glory left before it is all unveiled. For this reader, it has been well-worth the ride and one I can't wait to finish. For me this rates a 5 out of 5 stars but requires readers to pick up the first books in the series to understand what has been happening from the beginning.

For more information about Awe, Travis Thrasher or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Awe by Travis Thrasher

You can find Travis Thrasher on Facebook to stay up to date on all his latest novels.

The novels in the series are: Marvelous (1), Wonder (2) and (3) Awe. Coming Soon...Glory (4). 

Simple Pleasures

"Amish novels, Amish tourist sites, and television shows offer second and third hand accounts of Amish, Mennonite, and Hutterite life. Some of these messages are sensitive and accurate. Some are not. Most are flat-out wrong.

Now readers can listen directly to the voices of these Anabaptists through Plainspoken. In the book in this series, readers get to hear Amish, Mennonite and Hutterite writers talk about the texture of their daily lives: how they spend their time, what they value, what makes them laugh, and how they summon strength from their Christian faith and community." (Introduction, Author's Note)

In Simple Pleasures by Marianne Jantzi, readers get to read from the journal writings of a family of four Amish to gain an inside and true-life memories of what one woman captured and began a column in the Collection, an Amish-Mennonite newspaper. If you are looking for well-writing fiction, you will not find it in this book. These are moment by moment memories of what one woman captures in her life as a Canadian Amish woman working in her own business and home with her family and community. From how she deals with being stuck inside on very cold days and wishing it was warm out, to having an appreciation for where you're at in life. How they occupy their time, and how their house isn't as organized as they would like when company comes calling. To dealing with their children who want pets, to sometimes dealing with the hardships when death comes to early.

Here is a sample of what you'll find inside.

I was reading an article about baking bread; the writer mentioned that her husband carved her a bread spoon. I read on, intrigued. A bread spoon? Who ever heard of such a thing, and what could its purpose be? The husband had carved it from a piece of soft maple a little over twelve inches long. It gently curved outward to an almost-flat bowl a little more than three inches wide, somewhat like a paddle. Its shape worked very well in beating together bread ingredients. So that's what it was! That 'odd-shaped wooden spoon we received as a wedding gift." It's always what I grab to mix buns, rolls and the occasional donuts. A bread paddle, no less! No wonder it works so well. Then again, maybe it's not. Maybe I'm guessing wrong. I've done that before."  (pg. 75).

I received Simple Pleasures by Marianne Jantzi compliments of Litfuse Publicity and Herald Press for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this book, in exchange for my honest review. I absolutely loved the simplicity of what you'll find inside. Just like opening an Amish journal and who would have ever guessed that there are Amish in Canada? I love getting an honest look at how wonderful these communities are and how they aren't as put together as some fiction books might have you believe. They are just as real as you and I without all the modern conveniences. For me this one rated a 4 out of 5 stars in my opinion. There are even some great recipes tucked inside I can't wait to try! This is the fourth book in the Plainspoken Series of books.

For more information about Simple Pleasures or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

Simple Pleasures by Marianne Jantzi

You can find MennoMedia on Facebook to learn more about the Amish and Mennonite products.

To read more reviews on Simple Pleasures, please visit Litfuse Publicity Book Tour Page.

The Cairo Code

"An American born assassin sent by Hitler to kill the U.S. President?

"It beggars belief. Weaver put down his Scotch. 'And probably the best American president that ever lived, come to that. Halder's mission was meant to change the tide of war for the Nazi's. And there was much more at stake than when Kennedy was targeted in Dallas. The future of the free world, no less. And it happened while Roosevelt and Churchill were attending the Cairo Conference in November 1943, one of the most vital Allied conferences of the war.

"Among other things, the president and the prime minister were in Cairo to agree on top-secret plans for Operation Overlord, the invasion of Europe. Had Hitler got his way, and had them assassinated, the Allies would have been thrown into chaos, the invasion would have never gone ahead, and Germany would have won the war." (pg 8-9).

In Glenn Meade's novel The Cairo Code, readers are about to go for a fast-paced, adrenaline rush to discover a story based on a real attempt to kill the president. This was previously published as The Sands of Sakkara, and highlights the story of three friends who worked in archaeology before being dispersed when the war efforts disbanded their dig site. Now they will be reunited in a way none of them could ever expect and it may in fact cost them more than just their lives. The lines begin to be crossed when all bets are off when Major Johann Halder will be faced with saving the life of a woman he once loved in order to get his only son out of Europe before the allies invade.

I received The Cairo Code by Glenn Meade compliments of Howard Books, a division of Simon and Schuster Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a copy of this novel in exchange for my personal and honest evaluation. I love how the novel toggles back in time between present day and war time to unveil the plot to kill U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Prime Minister Winston Churchill in order to advance Hitler's plans for Germany to win the war. It gets the reader involved in the plot and why certain characters would be motivated to do what they were tasked to do and how those relationships developed in such an interesting manner, that you don't lose track of the story line and have a sense of caring for those relationships that are being used to further this assassination attempt. For me, this one rates a 4 out of 5 stars and historical political fiction fans will love this one.

For more information about The Cairo Code, Glenn Meade or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

The Cairo Code by Glenn Meade

You can find Glenn Meade on Facebook to stay up to date on all his latest books.

To read more reviews on The Cairo Code, please visit Howard Book's website.

True Reagan

"Though Reagan was famous with his generation for having starred in movies, the fact was his resume included many more jobs than just appearing in films - all of them preparing him for and leading up to his ultimate starring role as President. Reagan was President for eight years, but the world was never on intimate terms with him. The world never owned a little bit of him as it has some other leaders who have lived out their personal lives in public. He made many of us feel better and more secure about our own lives but we were never invited into his. According to Fouad Ajami of Stanford University, 'The Reagan presidency was about America, and never about Ronald Reagan." (pg 63).

In the book, True Reagan by James Rosebush, readers are given a rare glimpse into the man who many considered the last great President of the United States, like we never have before. James Rosebush was the longest-serving Chief of Staff to Nancy Reagan and Deputy Assistant to President Reagan, and through this book, we learn what made Reagan tick, what was the secret to his greatness, the source of his influence, the key to his character and the strength behind his leadership?

"He has been out of office for nearly three decades, and yet the name of Ronald Reagan is heard often today. Even as history fades and the precise details of his presidency become less distinct, many believe that the fortieth President of the United States would have answers to the complex and almost implacable issues we face today, or, at minimum, he might have the bearing and the strength of character to significantly improve global geopolitical conditions. In our extraordinarily disruptive world, Reagan is recalled as a leader who could verbally wrestle global agitators into submission. Some people look for his character traits to be represented in the voices of today's leaders. Few find them there." (pg 1).

It is hard not to look back in history and see the confidence and strength that came from a man who gained the respect not only of his own country but of the world in his negotiations with some difficult situations in office. Many claim that Reagan was the one responsible for Gorbachev tearing down the Berlin Wall in spite of ongoing tensions during the Cold War with Russia. Many don't know that Reagan was both a Democrat and Republican, Actor, Life Guard, Sportcaster, Governor and President, but also the son of a preacher, not his father but mother, and wonderful devoted husband. While he led our country through eight years, he never hid behind his title or garnered attention in office. In fact, he was a private man who spent most of his time, living out his faith in ways many won't understand until he left office. He was bold, yet humble, strong yet assertive, and most of all I believe he was the last great President this nation has had.

I received True Reagan by James Rosebush compliments of Center Street Publishing, a division of Hachette Book Groups in exchange for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this book in exchange for my personal and honest evaluation. There are so many great quotes from this book in numerous speeches that Reagan gave during some of his highlights during his presidency. Since I grew up with him as President, I never considered the depth of his character until many years later. I feel I missed an opportunity to really know him in light of the recent presidents that have held office after his. You can't help but wonder how this country and world might be if he was still in office. For me, this one rated a 5 out of 5 stars and has found a permanent home in my personal library. Highly recommend to anyone looking for evidence of Reagan's faith while in office as President.

For more information about True Reagan, James Rosebush or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

True Reagan by James Rosebush

You can find Ronald Reagan Presidental Library on Facebook to stay up to date on all the latest projects.

To read more reviews on True Reagan, please visit Center Street Publishing's website. 

Pocket Prayers

"Hello, my name is Max. I'm a recovering prayer wimp. I doze off when I pray. My thoughts zig, then zag, then zig again. Distractions swarm like gnats on a summer night. If attention deficit disorder applies to prayer, I am afflicted. When I pray, I think of a thousand things I need to do. I forget the one thing I set out to do: pray.

Some people excel in prayer. They inhale heaven and exhale God. They are the SEAL Team Six of intercession. They would rather pray than sleep. Why is it that I sleep when I pray? They belong to the PGA: Prayer Giants Association. I am a card carrying member of the PWA: Prayer Wimps Association. Can you relate? It's not that we don't pray at all. We all pray some.

On tear-stained pillows we pray.

In grand liturgies we pray.

At the sight of geese in flight we pray.

Quoting ancient devotions, we pray.

We pray to stay sober, centered or solvent. We pray when the lump is deemed malignant. When the money runs out before the month does. When the unborn baby hasn't kicked in a while. We all pray...some. But wouldn't we all like to pray....

More?

Better?

Deeper?

Stronger?

With more fire, faith, or fervency? Yet we have kids to feed, bills to pay, deadlines to meet. The calendar pounces on our good intentions like a tiger on a rabbit. We want to pray, but when? We want to pray, but why? We might as well admit it. Prayer is odd, peculiar. Speaking into space. Lifting words into the sky. We can't even get the cable company to answer us, yet God will? The doctor is too busy, but God isn't? We have our doubts about prayer.

Prayer is not a privilege of the pious, not the art of a chosen few. Prayer is simply a heartfelt conversation between God and his child. My friend, he wants to talk with you. Even now, as you read these words, he taps at the door. Open it. Welcome him in. Let the conversation begin. "
(Pg 5-7, 12)

In typical easy reading fashion, Max Lucado introduces readers to Pocket Prayers, 6 uniquely designed books to help Dads, Moms, Friends, Grads, Military, and Teachers with 40 specific prayers designed to help inspire and encourage your prayer life. They will bring joy and serenity in Pocket Prayer for Friends with Max and Betsy St. Amant. They bring peace and rest to Pocket Prayers for Moms with Max and Andrea Lucado. In Pocket Prayers for Dads, 40 simple prayers help bring strength and faith to our men with Max and Mark Mynheir. Pocket Prayers for Grads promises 40 simple prayers that bring hope and direction in the life ahead of them with Max and Andrea Lucado. 40 simple prayers that bring faith and courage can be uncovered in Pocket Prayers for the Military Life, with Max and Mark Myheir, to anyone serving in our military. Finally 40 simple prayers that bring peace and renewal in Pocket Prayers for Teachers, with Max and Jennifer K. Hale.

These simple but encouraging books provide just the right kinds of prayer in every single life of a believer in just the way they need it. I gifted Pocket Prayers for Dads, to my own father, who is just beginning to discover his life as a believer in Christ, to encourage him in his own prayer life. I have gifted Pocket Prayers for Military Life to a close friend who just made the decision to enlist in the army to help him realize that no matter how far from home he is, God will always be right there for him. Pocket Prayers for Graduates is given to my 17-year-old daughter who is graduating in June to help her always realize that when she faces uncertainty in her future, she can always trust God for the right path in her life. I have given Pocket Prayers for Moms to my own mother, because she has always inspired me that prayer is the one thing we always have any time day or night no matter what we are enduring. Finally Pocket Prayers for Teachers I have gifted to our Youth Pastor who's responsibility it is to help lead the next generation to trust and have faith in God.

I received Pocket Prayers by Max Lucado compliments of Thomas Nelson and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation, aside from these free books, in exchange for my honest and personal opinions. The one thing I love about any of Max Lucado's books is the down to earth feel you get when reading them. It's not like reading a book, but having a heart to heart conversation with a close friend. He meets you right where you are, and you feel like you're on the same page with him.

For me, I struggle a lot in my own prayer life, first doing it and then staying focused when I do. These unique hard covered books are perfect for that person in your life that needs the inspiration and encouragement in their prayer life and that is why I give these a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

For more information about Pocket Prayers, Max Lucado, or where you can pick up a copy of these today, please click on the links below:

Pocket Prayers by Max Lucado

You can find Max Lucado on Facebook to stay up to date with all his latest books.

To read more reviews on Pocket Prayers, please visit Litfuse Publicity's Book Tour Page.

To enter a giveaway for the Pocket Prayer's Prize Pack, please click here. 

Back in the Saddle

In true contemporary western style best selling author Ruth Logan Herne weaves a story of a modern day prodigal son who returns home to his families ranch in Gray's Glen, Washington, after watching all his investments take a plunge for the worst on Wall Street. Now it's time to turn in his corporate designer business suits for ranch attire and mount up to do what he can to help his ailing father Sam Stafford as he recovers from the hospital. Colt Stafford and his father Sam have a huge divide separating them and it will take lots of hard work, on both their parts to mend what's been broken since Colt left home.

Colt just isn't expecting to run into the housekeeper, Angelina Morales, his father has hired who seems to be more than what she appears on the outside. Armed with more than simply good lucks and the ability to cook up a hearty meal for all the hired help and family, Colt will have to prove his worth in her eyes as well. Since Colt left, it meant that his younger brother Nick had to step up in his absence even while raising two young daughters of his own. Now he isn't too happy to see Colt waltz back into the Double S as if everything is peachy, and undermine what he's worked so hard to obtain.

I guess that is what makes this novel so appealing is the element of redemption of any wayward prodigal. There is always that difficulty that comes from returning home, and having to answer for the decisions one has made along the way, that while it seemed they knew best, ultimately life becomes a humbling teacher. Colt being the oldest, you think he would know better, but that is just like most to think they are ready to leave the nest and attempt to make it own their own. Just like most who invested in the Wall Street ploys in 2008 only to have it fall flat when all those quick-rich schemes turned sour.

I received Back in the Saddle by Ruth Logan Herne compliments of WaterBrook Multnomah Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest and personal review. This is the first book in the Double S Ranch Series and introduces each of the brothers in this introduction novel to readers will know what to expect in each subsequent novel, a chance to get to know each of the brothers better as well as the entire family. For me this one rated a 4 out of 5 stars.

For more information about Back in the Saddle, Ruth Logan Herne or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Back in the Saddle by Ruth Logan Herne

You can find Ruth Logan Herne on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on Back in the Saddle, please visit WaterBrook Multnomah's website. 

No Other Will Do

Emma Chandler had a dream and in 1894, she began to make that dream come true in Harper's Station, Baylor County, Texas. It has been encouraged by her friend Victoria and other to help her dream up the idea of a women's colony, a place run by women to benefit women. A sanctuary for those needing to escape, and a place of opportunity for those looking to better themselves.

When Emma came into her inheritance at the age of 21, she'd heard about a small town of abandoned buildings for sale for pennies on the dollar. Residents had abandoned the old stagecoach town when the railroad came through nearby Seymour. Her aunts had combined their funds with hers in an investment pool, and they'd purchased the land. Thanks to a few well-placed ads in the area newspapers that first year and what some would call their growing notoriety since then, the colony boasted nearly fifty members, if one counted the children. Women surviving and thriving by supporting one another. And now some bull-headed, hateful man threatened to destroy all the had built. Emma knew her answer lay with the one person who could help when she needed it the most.

Malachi Shaw, had been raised when Emma found him huddled inside their barn many years ago and the aunts had taken an instant liking to helping him. He always believed that when he laid eyes on Emma, she was sent to him from heaven. His own angel. One that he would do anything for. When he received her telegram with the words, "In trouble. Need your help. Please come."  He dropped everything working for the railroad company as a blaster. He wasn't quite sure what he needed but he knew in his heart after everything she and the aunts had done for him, it was time to repay them for their kindness no matter what they needed. "Hang in there, Emma. I'm coming."

I received No Other Will Do by Karen Witemeyer compliments of Bethany House Publishers and Net Galley for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free ecopy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. There honestly hasn't been one novel that I've read of Karen Witemeyer's I haven't loved. Each of them is written is such an easy going manner you can sit back and inhale them in one sitting without realizing it. I couldn't wait to read this one and have to agree it's worth every single 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion. Emma is a strong character that doesn't rely on a man to come to her aid, and is determined to do what she can to help the women who have come to rely on her as a leader. I love female characters written this way because I firmly believe there were women like that out west that had to rely on their wits and gumption to make it in a man's world. That is what I love most about Karen Witemeyer's novels.This is the first novel in the Ladies of Harper Station series!

For more information about No Other Will Do, Karen Witemeyer or where you can preorder a copy of this book due out in the summer of 2016, please click on the links below:

No Other Will Do by Karen Witemeyer

You can find Karen Witemeyer on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on No Other Will Do, please visit Bethany House Publisher's website. 

Sit, Stay, Love

Pet lovers know that our animals are sensitive to our emotions and seem to understand exactly what we need, when we need it. When an owner dies, the pet grieves in their own way just as we do, but it is hard to watch when they are trying to process what has happened. That is exactly what is going on with Tippy, a thirteen-year-old mixed breed dachshund who has lost her owner, Cal's mom. Cal wasn't looking to adopt or care for Tippy since he is so busy with his pro baseball career and he is the last suitable person for any kind of pet. The only thing he can manage to do right now at least, is hire someone who can do that for him and that is where Gina comes into play.

Taking the place of her cousin, she takes on the task of working not only with Tippy, but with Cal in resolving the relationship the two share in the unlikeliest of situations. Tippy seems to sense that a part of his missing owner can be found in Cal and it will take all the tricks she can muster to find a way into his heart if only he will give her the chance. Unfortunately it turns out to be a comedy of errors when the only way Tippy will eat is when Cal sits next to her. Yet when he has to leave for work, Gina believes he can take a short break to help Tippy manage lunch at least, she just didn't expect to distract him from catching the pitch from the catcher and hit him in the face instead.

Now Gina has time to work with both of them while Cal is recovering. He still needs to sort through his mother's belongings at the family ranch and get that ready for sell. The last thing he has time for is trying to find a way to keep and maintain it, and a trip home is just what he needs. He just isn't prepared for all the emotions waiting for him when he walks in the door of his childhood home.

I received Sit, Stay, Love by Dana Mentink compliments of Harvest House Publishers and Litfuse Publicity for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of the book, in exchange for my honest and personal opinions. This is a book for dog lover's especially but all pet lovers will find something in common in the unbreakable bonds we share with our pets. There is a great chemistry that forms between Gina, Cal and Tippy as they each work through their own issues and eventually find that unconditional love forms the tightest bond of all. I would rate this one a 4 out of 5 stars in my opinion. Part of the proceeds from the book will be donated to the Muttville Senior Dog Rescue which finds homes for older dogs instead of a life in the shelters.

For more information on Sit, Stay, Love, Dana Mentink or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

Sit, Stay, Love by Dana Mentink

You can find Dana Mentink on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest books.

To read more reviews on Sit, Stay, Love, please visit Litfuse Publicity's Book Tour Page.

  What do you get when you add one abrasive professional athlete, a quirky out-of-work schoolteacher, and an overweight geriatric dog? A lesson in love—Tippy style—in Dana Mentink's new book, Sit, Stay, Love. As Gina travels through Cal’s world with Tippy in tow, she begins to see Cal in a different light. Gina longs to show Cal the God-given blessings in his life that have nothing to do with baseball or fame. When her longing blooms into attraction, Gina does her best to suppress it. But Cal is falling in love with her too. . . .

Join Dana in celebrating the release of Sit, Stay, Love with a blog tour and a Travels with Tippy prize pack giveaway!

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of Sit, Stay, Love
• A basket filled with Tippy-themed goodies
  • Travel-themed decorator box
  • Reading dog statue
  • Dog journal
  • Poems for Dog Lovers
  • Snuggle Paws fleece blanket from Animal Rescue Site
  • Pawprint scarf
  • Doxie desk pen
  • Pupmobile auto magnet

 

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry! The giveaway ends on April 25th. The winner will be announced April 26th on Dana's blog.

The Valley of the Dry Bones

"It has become my sad duty to inform you that your federal government has finally, officially, been forced to declare the entire state of California a disaster area. Due to the impossibility of rebuilding her great cities on unstable ground under the unrelenting onslaught of the sun, we have sadly deemed it, "Uninhabitable, irreparable, and verboten to citizens."

Hard to believe that the once glorious and lively state of California would be declared uninhabitable, but after 14 years of drought and earthquakes, it resembles the desert landscapes so prevalent in the east like the Mohave and the great skylines are now nothing but rubble. The increasing heat is doing nothing more but burning up what remains of the golden state and now it resembles nothing more than ash and dust.

There are a few that have given up their rights to stay in the state simply because they are unable to leave due to finances or illness and these are the very people that a band of rag tag holdouts feel is their ministry to help reach them for Jesus. Led by Reverend Robert Gill who along with his wife and 14 others have taken an underground bunker and turned it into a self supporting facility to house them and provide for all their needs. However when Pastor Bob reveals that his wife Jennie is dying of stage 3 cancer, they feel they need to move on to spend what time she has remaining in the company of family and friends in other states. That leaves an opening for the next person to step up to lead the group. It will take a vote of those who are eligible to see who that will be.

Ezekiel (Zeke) Thorppe Sr has been hearing strong voices from God calling him to be His voice to the people. But Zeke isn't sure if he is prepared to do what God tells him and knowing just what to say when called. In the midst of upheaval in their group with Pastor Bob's news, how will the group deal with the fact that God is speaking directly to him. Won't they simply believe he is trying to gain an upper hand in the vacancy that Bob is leaving? Or does God have a different plan in purpose that overlaps the ancient prophet Ezekiel from the Bible?

I received The Valley of the Dry Bones by Jerry B. Jenkins compliments of Worthy Publishing and Net Galley for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a eBook copy of this novel in exchange for my honest and personal evaluation. The premise for this novel is amazing considering the ongoing and increasing drought in the state of California currently. It makes for the perfect background for the novel as you consider what would happen if California continues to experience no rain and loses the ability to make water? What would that do to the entire infrastructure of those living in the state? The only disappointing thing I have to say regarding this novel is how much time was spent on the build up of the story only to rush the ending into a small epilogue. As a reader, this is such a disappointment when I had hoped for so much more than it delivered. It's like getting your hopes up and then offering little in the way of a great and climatic ending one would expect from Jerry B. Jenkins. In that case I can only give this one a 4 out of 5 instead of a full 5 stars.

For more information about The Valley of the Dry Bones, Jerry B. Jenkins or where you can pick up a copy of this novel that is available in May of 2016, please click on the links below:

The Valley of the Dry Bones by Jerry B. Jenkins

You can find Jerry B. Jenkins on Facebook to stay up to date on all his latest novels.

To read more reviews on The Valley of the Dry Bones, please visit Worthy Publishing's website. 

Last Promise

Perhaps my favorite novels are those that combine two different genres into one unforgettable story as Last Promise by Scarlett Dunn. This is the last novel in the McBride Brothers trilogy and highlights the final romance of Luke McBride, one of three brothers running the McBride Cattle Ranch. While his other brothers have found true love on the frontier, the last thing on Luke's mind is marriage. He loves the wild and single lifestyle and being graced with great looks and charisma, he has no problem finding suitable companionship in Promise, Wyoming especially with the soiled doves at the saloon in town. He only problem is convincing them, he is not ready to settle down and get married. He loves his life just fine.

Mary Ann Hardwicke is leaving her life behind in England where her father has all but made up his mind about her. He believes that her recent encounter with Edmund Stafford has left her compromised and thus the need for her to wed. But that isn't what happened, she was trying to get away from him and her dressed ripped when he wouldn't release her. Now her only hope to get some much need perspective from her controlling father is to leave west and stay with her Uncle George who owns a hotel in Promise, Wyoming. She just never expected to see such differences in cultures between being a future heiress in England and learning to make her own way out West.

When the two collide, Mary Ann's opinion of Luke is just what she sees, a man who is what she has read about, a pistolier, and she has made her mind, she isn't going to have anything to do with him, especially when he makes promises to the women he escorts around time to show them a good time. Luke is about to lose his senses when a beautiful woman arrives from the stage and literally takes his breath away with her beauty and poise. He just never expected a fight to happen right in front of her as one of the drunken men stumbled out of the saloon and right into one the women he was escorting to lunch. He just never expected to defend his own honor as well as hers. Now he will stop at nothing to turn her head and make her see a side of him that no one else but his family does or die trying.

I received Last Promise by Scarlett Dunn compliments of Zebra Publishing and Net Galley for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free eBook in exchange for my honest and personal evaluation of the book. What I love most about Mary Ann is that she is strong and determined. She is never the victim even though technically she is in regards to the situation with Edmund. She forms opinions quickly and is surprised to learn that she is not as effective in her character judgment as she thought. This make the story believable and had me inhale it one sitting. I love the chemistry between her and Luke and find myself relating to her quite a bit. I had hoped she might have more ground to stand on when her father discovers her instead of being forced back to England, but it doesn't end there. This is like a western fairy tale and I loved it. Well worth every single 5 out of 5 stars.

For more information about Last Promise, Scarlett Dunn or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Last Promise by Scarlett Dunn

You can find Scarlett Dunn on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest books.

For more reviews on Last Promise, please visit Zebra Publishing's website. 

The Reluctant Duchess

"One more day to feel like herself, Rowena's right hand went to where the gold band encircled her left ring finger. Perhaps there wasn't a herself left to feel like anymore. Perhaps, whomever, she had once been, she had given it up when she married the Duke of Nottingham.

Or perhaps Malcolm had stolen it from her." (excerpt).

Rowena Kinnaird is trying to come to terms with where her lot in life has found her. At the abusive hands of her father who simply wanted to give her strength and fortitude to face any challenge that may come her way, or under the tyrant Malcolm Kinnaird who would do anything to ensure an heir to the family clan even if it meant taking that opportunity by force against Rowena's wishes. Now it is all she can do not to cower whenever anyone came near. Even though she attempted to explain to her father, that Malcolm had forced himself upon her at the risk of her giving birth to a son to ensure she retains the rights of the families estate by having a son.

Yet somewhere in the midst of all of this evil, God had a plan and a purpose. One to give Rowena a future and a hope, when Brice Nottingham arrived to come to her rescue one evening. Not knowing the circumstances of what has happened, he offers to marry Rowena as a means of getting her away from the horrible men in her life but also in being obedient to the words he hears from God. God is the one who put Rowena in his life and asked him to care for her. While he may remain obedient to the call the Lord places on his life to do this, it will take an act of God to help him find a way to show her that he will protect her and never harm her. In time, he hopes they can grow to get to know one another and hopefully fall in love. Something he is willing to bet more than his life on.

I received The Reluctant Duchess by Roseanna M. White compliments of Net Galley and Bethany House Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside for a free eBook copy in exchange for my personal and honest evaluation. This is the second book in the Ladies of the Manor Series, with one more coming soon. This is a delightful tale of the similar story from the Bible about a man, Hosea, who is commanded by God to take a wife despite what has happened to her and love her despite how she and those around her see herself. I loved watching Rowena deal with all the horrors from her past and watch her bloom under the love of Brice. No matter how Brice feels, he responds in obedience from God and never questions whether it is the right thing to do or not. I love that part of his character which showcases the true meaning of love, to do so without any conditions. I can't wait to read the first novel in the series, The Lost Heiress, as well as pick the sequel up when it debuts. For me, this one really hits home for romance fans looking for that historical Scottish flair and thus the reason for the 5 out of 5 stars.

For more information about The Reluctant Duchess, Roseanna M.White or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

The Reluctant Duchess by Roseanna M. White

You can find Roseanna M. White on Facebook to stay up to date on all her latest novels.

To read more reviews on The Reluctant Duchess, please visit Bethany House Publisher's website.