Book Review: We Laugh, We Cry, We Cook

Book Description

With down-to-earth wit, charm, love and laughter, a butter and bacon lovin’ mama and a vegan bean eatin’ daughter share humorous stories about the differences that test them, the foods that entice them, and the love that binds them.

Becky Johnson and her daughter Rachel Randolph come from a long line of laughter. The female side of her family tree is dotted with funny storytellers, prolific authors, hospitable home cooks, and champion chatters.

In We Love, We Laugh, We Cook, Becky—a butter and bacon loving mama—and Rachel—a vegan bean eating daughter—share stories of their crazy, wonderful, and sometimes challenging lives as Rachel becomes a mother herself.

Becky is messy; Rachel craves order. Becky forgets what month it is; Rachel is an organizational genius. (At least before baby arrives.) Sprinkled throughout are the lip-smacking, nourishing recipes they love to make and share.

From food for a family reunion of thirty, to lunch for a party of one in a high chair, to a hot meal for a sick friend, the authors demonstrate grace, acceptance, and love to others through the bonding gifts of humor, attentive listening, and cooking … whether diners prefer beef or tofu in their stew.

My Review:

This book is written like no other book I have had.  It is written as a story between a mother and a daughter about their lives... their struggles, their triumphs and loves.  Intertwined with their stories are recipes.  The book is wonderful for those who love a great story and also for those looking for great recipes.  Much of the story revolves around becoming a new mother, which was quite fitting for me at the moment.  I enjoyed this book very much.

 

 

I received this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion. 

Book Review: Barefoot Summer

About Barefoot Summer:Madison's heart has been closed for years. But one summer can change everything.

In the years since her twin brother's tragic drowning, Madison has struggled with her ability to trust God--or anyone else, for that matter. It was her brother's dream to win the annual River Sail Regatta in their small harbor town of Chapel Springs, Indiana. And Madison's determined to honor his legacy by making his dream her own. Maybe then she can finally find closure.

But learning to sail means learning to swim. And her instructor is Beckett O'Reilly, a man who already has two strikes against him in Madison's eyes. Being on the water terrifies Madison. But Beckett's calming presence and unwavering confidence eases her fear. And as much as she'd like to deny it, the chemistry between them is electrifying.

As her feelings for him grow, a fledging faith begins to take root in her soul, as well. With Beckett, Madison feels alive for the first time in years--carefree and confident she can win the regatta, maybe even find love.

But Beckett harbors a secret that will test the limits of their love and the depth of Madison's faith. Will their love survive summer's challenge? And will achieving her brother's dream give Madison the peace she desperately seeks?

Purchase a copy:

Meet Denise:

Denise lives in Indiana with her husband Kevin and their three sons. In 1996, Denise began her first book, a Christian romance novel, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her books often contain a strong romantic element, and her husband Kevin says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!

Learn more about Denise at http://www.denisehunterbooks.com

 

 

My Review:

This is a great summer read.  It has romance, drama, swimming, sailing and lots of water!  The only thing that didn't capture me about this book was all of the sailing talk.  Other than that the book is an enjoyable read.  I love Denise Hunter's books and recommend her as an author to everyone.  I also recommend this book to women who are looking for a fun read especially if they are into sailing.

 

I received this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion.   

Book Review: Eventide

About the Book: A young Amish woman harbors a difficult secret. Does she dare share the truth with the man she hopes to marry?
Elsie Keim doesn't want to be left behind. Her twin sister, Viola, and her older brother, Roman, have both found love and are building lives of their own. But Elsie? She's still stuck at home, being treated like a child. No one seems to consider her a capable woman-all they see are the thick lenses of her glasses, constant reminders that Elsie suffers from keratoconus and is slowly going blind.

Elsie knows there's much more to her than her disease. That's why when a new neighbor, Landon Troyer, shows some interest in her, she doesn't want anything to scare him away . . . even if it means keeping her condition a secret.

Landon is ready to start a new life and feels like Elsie may just be the right woman to start it with. But when Roman steps in and shares the truth about Elsie's illness, Landon is floored. His job is demanding and takes him away from home, sometimes for days at a time. How could he keep up with his responsibilities and take care of Elsie?

Purchase your copy: http://ow.ly/oBHhP


Meet Shelley: Shelley Shepard Gray is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the "Sisters of the Heart", "Seasons of Sugarcreek", "Secrets of Crittenden County", and Families of Honor series. She lives in southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town's bike trail.

Connect with Shelley here: http://www.shelleyshepardgray.com/

My Review:

This was the final book in The Days of Redemption series.  I read the 2nd and now the 3rd books in the series and I just might have to go back and read the first.  The second book was not as enjoyable just because I felt like I was missing so much of the characters because I didn't read the first one.  The third book was so much easier to get into because I knew of them.  Elsie might be my favorite character so it was wonderful to read her story and hear more "from" her. 

This is a great book in a great series and I recommend it to everyone who loves Amish fiction or just a great romantic read.

 

I received this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion. 

Book Review and Giveaway: Stealing the Preacher

Karen Witemeyer is "kindling" the excitement for Stealing the Preacher (Bethany House) with a Kindle Fire Giveaway and connecting with readers at her June 18th Facebook Author Chat Party!

  One winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• Stealing the Preacher by Karen Witemeyer 

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends at 4pm on June 18th. Winner will be announced at the "Stealing the Preacher" Facebook Author Chat Party on June 18th. Connect with Karen for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Karen will also share an exclusive look at her next book and give away books and other fun prizes throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of Stealing the Preacher and join Karen on the evening of June 18th 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. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 18th!

About Stealing the Preacher:A cowboy who wants to be a preacher. An outlaw's daughter who wants to change his mind.
On his way to interview for a position at a church in the Piney Woods of Texas, Crockett Archer can't believe it when he's forced off the train by an outlaw and presented to the man's daughter as the preacher she requested for her birthday. He's determined to escape-which would be much easier if he could stop thinking about Joanna Robbins and her unexpected request.

For months, Joanna had prayed for a minister. A man to breathe life back into the abandoned church at the heart of her community. A man to assist her in fulfilling a promise to her dying mother. But just when it seems her prayers have been answered, it turns out the parson is there against his will and has dreams of his own calling him elsewhere. Is there any way she can convince Crockett he ended up right where he was supposed to be?

With her signature blend of humor, history, and lively western romance, two-time RITA Award finalist and bestselling author Karen Witemeyer delivers a Texas love story sure to steal your heart.

Purchase a copy here: http://ow.ly/lnKcM

Meet Karen:

Two-time RITA finalist and winner of the coveted HOLT Medallion and ACFW Carol Award, CBA bestselling author Karen Witemeyer writes historical romance because she believes that the world needs more happily-ever-afters. She is an avid cross-stitcher, shower singer, and bakes a mean apple cobbler. Karen makes her home in Abilene, Texas, with her husband and three children. Learn more about Karen and her books at www.karenwitemeyer.com.

Find out more about Karen at http://www.karenwitemeyer.com.

My Review:

The whole premise of this book is funny.  It is filled with romance, but really it is just comical.  I always enjoy a good southern book set in one of my favorite times and this one was no different.  The setting being in Texas helps, too.  If you are looking for a fun, easy-to-pick-up-where-you-left-off book this is a great one. 

 

I received this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion. 

Book Review; Seaside Harmony and Sunflower Summer

More about the books:

The Postcards from Misty Harbor Inn series (Guideposts Books) introduces readers to Caroline, Gracie and Sam as they gather for a vacation where they spent the summers as children, and follows their adventures as they fulfill their mother's dream of opening a bed and breakfast. As the sisters heal from their mother's passing, they bond in ways they never imagined and discover evidence of God's hand in the unlikeliest of circumstances.

A team of four authors come together under the pen name of Evangeline Kelley to bring the unique personalities of each sister to vivid life and welcome audiences to the charming and historic island of Nantucket, complete with cobblestone streets, quaint shops, ferries, sandy beaches and salty air.

Seaside Harmony:

Three sisters, a charming inn, hints of mystery and romance, and a gorgeous seaside setting. Summer reading at its finest!

When Caroline Marris joins her sisters, Gracie Gold and Sam Carter for a Nantucket Island getaway, she has no idea how it will change her life. The sisters stumble upon Misty Harbor Inn, the place their late mother loved so much, and Caroline talks her sisters into buying the beautiful but dilapidated inn. But can free-spirited Caroline stay focused enough to make opening the inn a reality? Hand-drawn old postcards draw the sisters into the mystery of Hannah Montague, the young widow of the original owner. Can the sisters uncover the fate of this woman who disappeared in 1880? As Caroline and her sisters work together to make their mom's dream a reality, they bond in ways they never expected.

Sunflower Summer:

Misty Harbor Inn officially opens, and Gracie Gold, the middle Marris sister, wrestles with an overwhelming decision. As the sisters learn the day-to-day workings of running an inn, Gracie counsels its first guests, newlyweds whose honeymoon seems to be ending before it begins. Meanwhile, Sam's discovery of a clue in a secret room sheds unflattering light on Hannah Montague, who vanished from the house more than one hundred years ago. And as Gracie and Caroline welcome guests to the inn, they are delighted to see how God uses it --- and them --- to deepen relationships and transform lives.

Meet Evangeline Kelley: Evangeline Kelley is the pen name for the writing team of Patti Berg, Pam Andrews & Barbara Hanson, and Camy Tang, the four authors who collaborated to create Postcards from Misty Harbor Inn. Each of them has published novels individually, but this is their first series together.

Find out more about Evangeline at http://amzn.to/10d3FZM.

My Review:

I am not a summer girl.  I love the fall and winter.  I guess I would take a month or two of very hot weather and then fall or winter would be awesome the other 10 months of the year.  These books did make me feel more summery.  The beauty in the books was great and the relationship between the sisters was wonderful.  I definitely can relate to that part of the books since I have three sisters.  The books would be great beach reads or just great for a day at the pool with the kids.  I prefer a little more romance in the books I read, but I still enjoyed reading them. 

I recommend these books to any woman looking for a great, easy summer beachy read. 

 

I received this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion. 

Book Review and Video: Lead Your Family Like Jesus

More about Lead Your Family Like Jesus:

Powerful Parenting Principles from the Creator of Families

(Focus on the Family/Tyndale) - Does your family need a five-star general at the helm? A psychologist? A referee? Ken Blanchard, best-selling co-author of The One Minute Manager and Lead Like Jesus, points to a better role model: the Son of God. Joined by veteran parents and authors Phil Hodges and Tricia Goyer, renowned business mentor Blanchard shows how every family member benefits when parents take the reins as servant-leaders. Moms and dads will see themselves in a whole new light-as life-changers who get their example, strength, and joy from following Jesus at home. This user-friendly book's practical principles and personal stories mark the path to a truly Christ-centered family, where integrity, love, grace, self-sacrifice, and forgiveness make all the difference.

Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/jizhQ

Meet the Authors:

Tricia:

 Bestselling author of more than 30 novels, nine nonfiction books, and more than three hundred articles for national publications; 2003 "Writer of the Year" at the Mount Hermon Christian Writer's Conference; popular blog writer, speaker, and radio host

Learn more about Tricia at www.triciagoyer.com.

Ken:

Leadership expert and author of over 50 books, including the New York Times bestseller, The One-Minute Manager; cofounder of Lead Like Jesus; and coauthor of Lead Like Jesus; Lessons from the Greatest Leadership Role Model of All Time

Learn more about Ken at www.kenblanchard.com

Phil:

A human resource and industrial relations manager in corporate America for 36 years with Xerox Corporation and U.S. Steel, co- founder of Lead Like Jesus; co-author of five books, including The Servant Leader and Leadership by the Book with Bill Hybels.

 

Learn more about Phil at www.leadlikejesus.com

My Review:

Who doesn't want to lead their family like Jesus would?  I know that we do, as parents.  I loved this book!  And look at the authors!!  They are definitely leaders and people who I can learn alot from.  Of course, there were bigger issues that the book dealt with, but I think my favorite parts were when they discussed the little issues, that turn into big issues.  I really learned alot from this book and plan to read it over several more times.  It is definitely a great book for every single parent to read, whether you are Christian or not.  Every idea is great for every parent and does not all have to be taken from a religious point of view.  Excellent book for every parent!

 

 

I received this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion.

Book Review and Giveaway: A Noble Groom

Jody Hedlund is celebrating the release of A Noble Groom by giving away a Kindle Fire and hosting a Facebook Author Chat Party {5/8}! 

One "noble" winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• A copy of A Noble Groom by Jody Hedlund

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 7th. Winner will be announced at the "A Noble Groom" Author Chat Party on May 8th. Connect with Jody, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at the trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be many fun giveaways -- gift certificates, books, and more!

So grab your copy of A Noble Groom and join Jody on the evening of May 8th 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. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 8th!

About A Noble Groom:

 

Michigan, 1880

Annalisa Werner's hope for a fairy tale love is over. Her husband failed her in every way and now his death has left her with few options to save the family farm. She needs a plentiful harvest. That, and a husband to help bring it in. Someone strong, dependable. That'll be enough. A marriage for love...that's something she's given up on.

So her father sends a letter to his brother in the Old Country, asking him to find Annalisa a groom.
Then a man appears: Carl Richards, from their home country of Germany and a former schoolteacher---or so he says. He's looking for work and will serve on the farm until her husband arrives.

With time running out, she accepts his help, but there's more to this man than he's admitting. He's also gentle, kind, charming---unlike any man she's ever known. But even as Carl is shining light into the darkness of her heart, she knows her true groom may arrive any day.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/jX8h7

Meet Jody: Jody Hedlund is the bestselling author of "The Doctor's Lady" and "The Preacher's Bride". She won the 2011 Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, the 2011 Award of Excellence from the Colorado Romance Writers and was a finalist for Best Debut Novel in the 2011 ACFW Carol Awards. Currently she makes her home in central Michigan, with her husband and five busy children. She loves hearing from readers on Facebook and on her blog.

Find out more about Jody at http://jodyhedlund.com/.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Review:

This was a great romantic novel.  The cover of this book definitely draws me in-who doesn't want to figure out who that dashing man is?  Surviving with no husband in the 1800s was so very hard and Annalisa's goal is to find a new husband in order to survive (enter the cover man?).  The historical content of this book is intriguing and begs you to read more.  There is just the right amount of historical content, romance and drama.  I will definitely be reading more of Jody's books and I recommend them to everyone who loves a great historical romance!!

 

I received this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion. 

Book Review: Beautiful Battlefields

About Beautiful Battlefields:

Where is God in the midst of this?

You've probably heard that question or perhaps asked it yourself. In the battle for your joy, your marriage, your finances, your health, an emptiness creeps in. Where is the peace You promised, God?

Bo Stern has been there-and is still there. Yet in studying the battles in Scripture, she came to a startling conclusion: God is using these fierce fights in our lives for an astonishing purpose.

Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/hGUuS ;

Meet Bo:

Bo Stern knows the most beautiful things can come out of the hardest times. Her Goliath came in the form of her husband's terminal illness, a battle they are still fighting with the help of their four children, a veritable army of friends, and our extraordinary God. Bo is a teaching pastor at Westside Church in Bend, Oregon.

Find out more about Bo at http://www.bostern.com/.

 

 

 

 

 

My Review:

Don't you just love this cover?!?!  It totally draws me in and the book does not disappoint!  Bo Stern is a pretty awesome woman of faith.  Her husband was diagnosed with ALS so her life is filled with a constant battle.  We all have our battles... with infertility, in our marriage, raising children, with the world.  We just have to seek God and His beauty in those moments.  Bo definitely believes that our battles help make us stronger, or can make us stronger if we allow ourselves to see the positive that comes from the battle.  There is not beauty in the battle, but there is beauty in who we become because of the battle. 

I recommend this book to every woman, especially those who are going through their own battle... but aren't we all at some point?

 

I received this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion. 

Book Review: The Iron Duke

About The Iron Duke (from the back cover):

 

He could hear the continuous murmur of voices inside and thought to himslef that the pair down there certainly had found enough to talk about.  And he was envious too.  Blacky Lee had all the luck.  Blacky looked at exactly the right time.  And of course women fell for it.  The countess down there, however, didn't impress Stub as the kind of woman who would fall for anything-but the fact failed to hearten him.  He always distrusted such women instinctively.  They were too clever and too beautiful, and too intense.

The Countess Zita's appearance had been very unnerving to Stub.  In the first place, her beauty had quite stunned him.  In the second place, the vitality which flashed out of her tired him the instant he felt it.  And in the third place, he had a premonition that the Countess Zita, young though she appeared to be, could think rings around any man alive, including the redoubtable Blacky Lee.

-L. Ron Hubbard

 

 

 

 

My Review:

This book was definitely not what I was expecting and that was probably a good thing.  I had no idea that L. Ron Hubbard was a #1 New York Times Bestselling Author.  This story was originally published in the July 1940 issue of Five-Novels Monthly. 

While it was still not a genre I would read again, I was entertained with this quick easy read.  I was surprised that it did captivate my attention.  Because it is such a short novel, it is completely packed with adventure, comedy and entertainment from start to finish. 

I really think that this book would be great for teenage boys and men who enjoy an action-packed short novel.  It would definitely entertain them in the few short hours it takes to read the book!

 

 

I also have 2 copies for you to win!!!  Just leave a comment and I will draw the comment numbers from random on April 1st.  Then I will contact you and have your book sent right out!!

 

 

Book Review: Lord, I Give You This Day

 

 

My Review:

This devotional is nice if you are simply looking for an extra quick devotional.  There are typically little to no questions each day and there is no real "reflection space", but if that is what you are looking for then this is a great book.  I really appreciate the short and sweet devotions, but this was a little too short and too sweet for me.  There is a nice couple sentences long prayer at the end of each one, but that's about it.  If you like it like that or know someone who does, then this is a great book!

 

 

I received this book for free in exchange for my honest opinions. 

Book Review: Firefly Island

About Firefly Island:

Sometimes love takes you on an adventure completely off the map.

Mallory Hale's life quickly veers off course when she falls hopelessly in love. After a whirlwind romance, Mallory finds herself leaving the bustle and action of Capitol Hill for the remote town of Moses Lake, Texas-with husband, stepson, and a U-Haul in tow.

A sweet, mishap-filled journey into marriage, motherhood, and ranch living ensues, and Mallory is filled with both the wonderment of love and the insecurities of change. But what she can't shake is the unease she feels around her husband's new boss, Jack West. Jack's presence-and his mysterious past-set her on edge, and when hints of a scandal emerge, Mallory finds herself seeking answers . . . and comes to realize that the middle-of-nowhere home she wasn't sure she wanted is the very place she'll risk everything to save.

Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/hVNrv ;

Meet Lisa:

Lisa Wingate is a popular inspirational speaker, magazine columnist, and national bestselling author of several books, including Tending Roses, Talk of the Town, Blue Moon Bay, and Larkspur Cove, which won the 2011 Carol Award for Women's Fiction. Lisa and her family live in central Texas.

Visit www.lisawingate.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Review:

 This book was really enjoyable to read.  It starts out with a charming romance and leads to so much more!  Mallory, the main character, is wonderful and you can definitely find yourself in her and her thoughts.  This book has tons of romance, suspense and twists and turns.  I definitely recommend it to everyone who likes easy, fun, romantic books!!  I will definitely read more of Lisa's books, especially in this genre!

 

 

I received this book for free in exchange for my honest comments and opinions. 

Book Review: Fear, Faith and a Fistful of Chocolate

 



About Fear, Faith, and a Fistful of Chocolate:

Are you ready to strip fear's power over you and become the confident woman you were meant to be? Have you found that tolerating your personal fear monsters only makes them growl louder?

Okay, sister - take my hand and let's boldly step up and yank the masks off those shadow-lurking, anxiety-churning, worry-generating beasts.

With her own brand of off-beat wit and wisdom, inspirational humorist Debora Coty addresses heart needs of women worn down by everyday fears - financial, health, relationships, loss, pain, the unknown, the what ifs ...

With fresh spiritual insight, Debora shares hope, true life stories, scriptural lifelines, and a few LOL's along with simple, practical tips for sidestepping fear with faith. And a fistful of chocolate!

Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/hyrj3 ;

Meet Debora:

Debora Coty is an occupational therapist, a piano teacher, and a freelance writer. She's also involved in the children's ministry at her church and is an avid tennis player. Debora began writing to fill the void when her last child left for college, and it has since become a passion. Debora has a real knack for getting across sound biblical concepts with a refreshing lightheartedness as attested in her monthly newspaper column entitled "Grace Notes: God's Grace for Everyday Living."

 

 

 

 

My Review:

The title and cover of this book totally caught my eye and just drew me in to the book.  I think fear is the reason why so many of us do not do what we are called to do.  It is why we settle for less, why we don't follow our dreams and why we don't become more.  This book is not a serious self-help book, but it is definitely filled with inspiring, motivating, helpful and fun tidbits.  I would definitely recommend this book to any woman who would like a little help in the area of fear. 

 

 

I received this book for free in exchange for my honest comments and opinions.

Book Review: Dear Deb

 

"I want you to know that if my illness inspired you to write these stories, the cancer was worth it."—Deb

What stories could possibly make cancer worth it?

Stories that represent a miracle—a lifetime of miracles. Stories that changed the writer as she wrote them and stories that will touch the heart of the reader, one by one by one. Stories that are not just stories.

They started out as words of encouragement to a dying woman. They turned into a collection of sparkling and intimate moments, pulled from the past to finally be understood and shared with new meaning.

Story by story, letter by letter, Margaret Terry uncovered powerful pictures in her own life of the one truth that could help carry her friend Deb from this life to the next: God is at work.

Together, Deb and Margaret found renewed hope in all the ways God shows up right to the very end. Which is where they found the miracle they'd been praying for all along. In each other.

 

 

 

My Review:

I have never experienced anyone very close to me having cancer (knock on wood).  I hope that I never will.  If I did I would want this book so badly.  If I was close to dying or having anyone close to me close to dying, I would want this book.  But as neither of those, I still want this book.  If you are not experiencing a terrible trial with death you can still gain so much wisdom and inspiration on how to live right now.  This book made me cry, laugh and hope to live my life more fully and be more thankful for the good health we have.  This was a great book and I recommend it to everyone, especially those who are going through trials with death, but also for those who want to live a more full life.

 

 

I received this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion. 

Book Review: Courting Cate

About Courting Cate:

When This Couple Gets to Courting, Sparks Will Fly!

In Paradise, Pennsylvania, Cate Miller is known more for her sharp tongue and fiery temper than her striking appearance. Her sweet and flirty sister, Betsy, on the other hand, seems to have attracted most of the bachelors in Lancaster County!

But the sisters' wealthy father has made one hard-and-fast rule: older Cate must marry first, before younger Betsy can even start courting. Unfortunately, untamable Cate has driven away every suitor-until Pete Treger comes to town, that is.

Prodded by the men of the area, Pete turns his attention to winning Cate's hand. But is his interest true or is there a scheme at play?

Book 1 in The Courtships of Lancaster County series.

Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/eSNfb ;

Meet Leslie:

Leslie Gould is the co-author, with Mindy Starns Clark, of the #1 bestselling The Amish Midwife and The Amish Nanny. She is also the author of numerous novels, including Garden of Dreams, Beyond the Blue (winner of the Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice for Best Inspirational Novel, 2006), and Scrap Everything. She holds an MFA in creative writing from Portland State University and has taught fiction writing at Multnomah University as an adjunct professor. She resides with her husband and four children in Portland, Oregon.

Learn more at www.lesliegould.com.

My Review:

I love Amish romance novels and this one was great.  I really enjoy that the characters are so full and deal with the same issues and struggles that everyone does.  The way that they deal with those issues and struggles is what I really love.  This book had great characters and a great story line that I could definitely relate to in many ways. 

Cate's dilemna forces her to question many of the situations around her and although I wish she was a bit more trusting I understand why she seems to doubt.  Definitely a great Amish romance with a few little twists and an exciting romance line.

 

 

I received this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion.

Book Review: Hot Buttons-Internet, Dating, Drug, Sexuality

Nicole O'Dell helps address the Hot Buttons in teens' lives before the issues become problems

From dating to drugs, modesty to purity, morals to popularity, teens face all sorts of tough issues. How teens respond to these hot-button issues can have lasting effects on who they want to be and who they actually become. What if parents can help their teens prepare for these hot buttons-before the issues become a problem?

The uniquely packaged Hot Buttons Series is an accessible, quick-reference resource that parents can use to equip their children to make the right decisions, even in the face of peer pressure and outside influences. More than just another how-to manual, Hot Button Dating Edition offers practical real-life situations that parents can read and discuss with their preteens. Topics include: physical activity, missionary dating, and violence/abuse in dating relationships.

Author, mom, and broadcaster, Nicole O'Dell provides short scenarios followed by three or four responses that a teen might choose in that particular situation. Parents are then encouraged to help their children explore the issue, ask questions, and discuss the options, so when a similar situation comes up in real life, the teens are already prepared to respond.

Hot Buttons Dating Edition offers practical real-life situations that parents can read and discuss with their preteens. Topics include: physical activity, missionary dating, and violence/abuse in dating relationships.

Hot Buttons Internet Edition helps parents prepare their teens for online challenges they may face. Topics discussed include: internet activity, file sharing, social networking, and internet predators.

Hot Buttons Drug Edition braves the scary world of substance abuse, equipping parents with facts, warning signs, and real-world scenarios on: alcohol; Marijuana and other drugs; inhalants; and prescription drugs.

Hot Buttons S*xuality Edition offers the facts about teen sexuality, backed by statistics; specifics for how to talk frankly about s*x with your kids, discussion about the growth of homos*xuality and bis*xuality among teens; and compassionate advice for guiding your teen to reclaim purity.

Link to buy books: http://ow.ly/esojj ;

  

 

 

Meet Nicole: Youth-culture expert, Nicole O'Dell is the host of Choose NOW Radio: Parent Talk and Teen Talk and the founder of Choose NOW Ministries, dedicated to guiding teens through tough issues and helping parents encourage good decisions.

On air, O'Dell covers peer pressure, dating, purity, drugs, alcohol, modesty, popularity, and anything else that comes up along the way. Nicole writes and speaks to preteens, teenagers, and parents about how to prepare for life's tough choices.
As an author, O'Dell writes both fiction and nonfiction. Her popular YA fiction includes the Diamond Estate Series and the Scenarios for Girls interactive books that feature alternate endings, allowing young girls to decide the outcome for the main character. Her nonfiction for teens includes Girl Talk, which she wrote with her two daughters based on their popular advice column.

While her YA resources encourage and equip teens, Nicole also works to bridge the communication gap between teens and their parents. The Hot Buttons series helps parents discuss tough issues with their tweens and teens before the issues pop up in real life. Watch for future Hot Buttons books on subjects like bullying, image, prejudice, friendships, politics, and more.
O'Dell, resides in Paxton, IL, with her husband and six children-the youngest of whom are toddler triplets.

Find out more about Nicole at http://nicoleodell.com.

 

 

My Review:

These books will definitely be something that I treasure and use for years and years to come.  Nicole gives little up-front answers from her own opinions, but when she does it is short and sweet the way I like it.  She does give answer after answer from what she has found Biblically in the form of an answer.  I love this!  These are not just another set of parenting books.  These are invaluable for the Christian home.  The end of the books have sections where you can talk with your child/teen/tween about different scenarios.  I love this, also.  I feel like these books are not written to judge or give us, as parents, more impossible goals to live up to.  I feel like they are written to inspire, inform and equip us with the knowledge and tools, with Biblical backing, to teach and guide our children in the right ways to live.  

 

I definitely recommend these books to every parent!

 

 

 

I received these books in exchange for my honest opinion.   

Book Review and Contest: Love in the Balance

About Love in the Balance:

Handsome Cowboy or Debonair Tycoon.
How's a Girl to Choose?

Molly Lovelace dreams of a life without cares in Lockhart, Texas. She also dreams of handsome wrangler Bailey Garner, her ardent but inconsistent beau. The problem is, with Bailey's poor prospects, she just can't fit the two dreams together.

Then mysterious stranger Edward Pierrepont sweeps into town-and her life-and for the first time Molly wonders if she's met the man who can give her everything. But he won't be in Lockhart long and while it certainly seems like he talks about their glorious future together, she can't quite get Bailey out of her mind.

What's a girl to do with all these decisions when love is in the balance?

Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/iTdiA

Meet Regina:

Regina Jennings is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University with a degree in English and a history minor. She has worked at The Mustang News and First Baptist Church of Mustang, along with time at the Oklahoma National Stockyards and various livestock shows. She now lives outside Oklahoma City with her husband and four children.

Find out more about Regina at

http://www.reginajennings.com/.

Regina Jennings is celebrating the release of Love in the Balance with a Kindle Fire Giveaway and a Facebook Author Chat Party on 4/4!

One "lovely" winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire 
• A copy of Regina's Sixty Acres and a Bride and Love in the Balance

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 3rd. Winner will be announced at the "Love in the Balance" Author Chat Party on April 4th. Connect with Regina, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at a trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be many fun giveaways -- gift certificates, books, and more!

So grab your copy of Love in the Balance and join Regina on the evening of April 4th 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. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 4th!

 

 

My Review:

I enjoyed reading this book.  It was an easy read that starts with a great comedic scene in church.  The book is filled with several uncomfortably funny situations and lots of romance.  Of course, there is a choice between two men for the main character's heart.  I really like reading Christian romance novels and this historical romance was a nice read.

I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a nice Christian romance that is filled with a little comedy. 

 

I received this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion.

Book Review and Contest: Swept Away

Mary Connealy is celebrating the release of Swept Away by giving away a $250 "Swept Away" Vacation Package and hosting a Facebook Author Chat Party! 

One fortunate winner will receive:

• A $250 Visa Cash Card (Get away for the weekend or use it to buy an eReader for a relaxing ‘Staycation’!)
• A copy of Swept Away (For you AND a friend!)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 27th. Winner will be announced at the "Swept Away" Author Chat Party on March 28th. Connect with Mary, get a sneak peek of the next book in the series, try your hand at the trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be many fun giveaways -- gift certificates, books, and more!

So grab your copy of Swept Away and join Mary on the evening of the March 28th 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. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 28th!

 

 

 

About Swept Away:

When a cowboy focused on revenge encounters a woman determined to distract him, there's going to be trouble in Texas!

Swept away when her wagon train attempts a difficult river crossing, Ruthy MacNeil isn't terribly upset at being separated from the family who raised her. All they've ever done is work her to the bone. Alive but disoriented, she's rescued by Luke Stone...so unfortunately, there are more chances to die in her immediate future.

Luke is on a mission to reclaim the ranch stolen from his family. But the men currently on the property won't let it go without a fight. Luke plans to meet up with friends who will help him take back the land, and since he can't just leave Ruthy in the middle of nowhere, she's going to have to go with him.

But the more time Luke spends around the hardworking young woman, the more he finds himself thinking of things besides revenge. Will Ruthy convince him to give up his destructive path and be swept away by love?

Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/iwbMo

Meet Mary:

Mary Connealy writes fun and lively "romantic comedy with cowboys" for the inspirational market. She is the author of the successful Kincaid Brides, Lassoed in Texas, Montana Marriages, and Sophie's Daughters series, and she has been a finalist for a Rita and Christy Award and a two time winner of the Carol Award. She lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her husband, Ivan, and has four grown daughters.

Find out more about Mary at http://maryconnealy.com/.

 

 

 

 

My Review:

Well, I was very excited to read a book about trouble in Texas, since I live in Texas.  This book is an easy, entertaining read that is filled with romance and, of course, some trouble!  It is pretty typical romantic novel, but I really enjoy reading those type of books.  I love books that are set when times were simpler (not to be confused with easier) and that makes this one extra fun to read. 

I recommend this book to everyone who enjoys a romantic novel, especially ones that are set in the wild west... the ones with the cute, hardworking cowboys. 

 

I received this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion. 

Book Review: Unbreakable

About Unbreakable:

Gentle and unassuming, Hope Kauffman has never been one to question the traditions of her Mennonite upbringing. She quietly helps her father run Kingdom Quilts and has agreed to the betrothal he arranged for her with the devout but shy Ebbie Miller.
Despite the attempts of Hope and other Kingdom residents to maintain the status quo, changes have already begun to stir in the small Mennonite town. The handsome and charismatic Jonathon Wiese is the leader of the move to reform, while Ebbie insists Kingdom must remain true to its foundation. When Hope's safety is threatened by a mysterious outsider, she can't help but question what she's always been taught about the Mennonite tradition of nonviolence.
As it swiftly becomes apparent the threat Hope faced is only the beginning, the town that's always stood so strong finds itself divided. With tensions high and their lives endangered by an unknown enemy, will Hope and the people of Kingdom allow fear and division to break them or will they draw on the strength of the God they serve?

Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/huFtI ;

Meet Nancy:

Nancy Mehl lives in Wichita, Kansas, with her husband Norman and her very active puggle, Watson. She's authored fourteen books and is currently at work on a new series for Bethany House Publishing. All of Nancy's novels have an added touch - something for your spirit as well as your soul. "I welcome the opportunity to share my faith through my writing," Nancy says. "God is number one in my life. I wouldn't be writing at all if I didn't believe that this is what He's called me to do. I hope everyone who reads my books will walk away with the most important message I can give them: God is good, and He loves you more than you can imagine. He has a good plan for your life, and there is nothing you can't overcome with His help." Readers can learn more about Nancy through her Web site: www.nancymehl.com. She is also active on Facebook.

 

 

My Review:

This book was great.  I love Amish books and this was my first Mennonite book to read.  It sounds silly but it actually was a little bit different.  This was also the first book of either kind that had so much drama and suspense in it.  I really enjoyed that part.  Of course there is romance and a special tenderness to Amish books that I love. 

The book starts with the main female character, Hope, being ran off the road in her buggy by a driver who has been harassing others in the area.  This suspenseful moment is followed by many others.  I really enjoyed this book and will look forward to other books from Nancy Mehl. 

 

 

I received this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion.