Scraps of Evidence by Barbara Cameron

BOOK SUMMARY:

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

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

MY THOUGHTS:

Scraps of Evidence is part of the Quilts of Love series. This was a great story from beginning to end. I loved watching the characters grow and develop. Watching Tess and Logan learn to relate and trust each other as partners was written in such a way that I felt I was on the journey with them.  The book was really not what I expected, it was so much more. As they are searching for a serial killer, I found myself intrigued and working at solving the mystery myself.  I had a hard time putting it down, and at the same time finding myself not sure I could read it late in the night when it was so quiet. :)

The story behind the story regarding Tess and her friend who was murdered by the serial killer was a refreshing look at friendship. Although most of what we see was in direct relation to the murder, we can see a side of it which shows what true friendship is. 

Showing the different sides to all the characters and the different relationships mixed in created a  beautifully written story I'm sure you will love to read! 

You can find the book for yourself at Amazon.com

Disclosure: I received a print copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own and may differ from others.

A Marriage in Middlebury

Book Summary (from AMAZON)

Charlotte Rose Hill has been serving up country delicacies, uniquely blended teas, and matchmaking advice for her quirky but beloved customers for more than 10 years. But for her, marriage seems like an elusive butterfly, always out of reach. At 18, Charlotte fell in love with a young man, Sam Wilder, but his family convinced her to walk away from their relationship. She did, and
then became engaged to another man, who later died before they were married. Now, more than a decade later, Charlotte finds that she still has feelings for her first love. Initially thrilled to learn that Sam has come home to Middlebury, Texas, Charlotte is devastated to learn that he’s brought someone with him: his fiancée. But all is not lost when the townsfolk decide to get
involved. Will Charlotte and Sam find their way back to each other?

My Thoughts:

What I enjoyed about this book were the characters and the way there was a history involved. It's like getting a second chance to make a different choice. I'm sure everyone has been in a situation they wish they could get a do-over for. I was excited to see where Charlotte and Sam's relationship would go. Nothing was easy and there were many obstacles to overcome, but the dynamics throughout the storyline were great and made me want to keep reading. I couldn't wait to find out if they would end up together or if life had just moved on too much to go back. 
the relationship between Sam and his Father is not a unique relationship, but had a fresh approach to it and drew me in. I recommend this book and look forward to many other of Anita Higman's books!


Disclosure: I received a print copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own and may differ from others.

10 Great Dates by Larson & Arp

10 Great Dates by Peter and Heather Larson & David and Claudia Arp, is a book created to make connecting spiritually to your spouse a priority. Everyone's life is busier than ever now and sometimes time with your spouse gets put on the back burner when going against work, kids, church,and activities.  In 10 Great Dates, you are given some practical ideas to help you refocus time with your spouse.
There are 10 chapters each with it's on specific topic on which to focus your date time on. The chapters included are:

• Date 1: Connecting Faith and Love
• Date 2: Appreciating Your Differences
• Date 3: Experiencing God Together
• Date 4: Getting Into the Word
• Date 5: Loving Your Closest Neighbor
• Date 6: Talking Together With God
• Date 7: Building Your Marriage on a Strong Foundation
• Date 8: Facing The Storms of Life Together
• Date 9: Guarding Your Hearts Under God's Canopy
• Date 10: Making Your Marriage a Lighthouse

First you are asked to sign a commitment with your spouse to honor them with this special time. Then you have details of what to do each date night. You start by reading a chapter with verses and real life stories regarding the subject, Then you each have cards to fill out which will be used on the actual date. 

For the date, it tells you places to go, and tips for your time together. Then you are given things to do after the date together including Bible reading and discussion.

For me, this book makes it very clear cut on how to connect your marriage and relationships with God in a very practical way. Often times couples wish they could have this kind of relationship or dating life, but they aren't sure where to start, or think it might appear awkward. With this book you don't have to worry about it. Everything about your night is set up to allow for a fun time while focusing on the serious aspects of married life.

I think this would be a great book to have as a newly married couple. It's something I wish we had when we first started out. I find it would be easier to start on the right path then have to start over. Of course it is entirely useful for couples wishing to get to that place later in married life also.

I would highly recommend this book for any married couple, or soon to be married, who desires to put Christ in the center of their marriage. I know for me, I'll be sharing it with wedding gifts from now on.

Disclosure: I received a free print copy of the book in order to do my review. My reviews are always my honest opinions and may differ from others. I received this book as part of Bethany House reviewer program. 

Tangerine Morning by Rita Garcia

 Tangerine Morning is Book 2 in the Serenity Cove Series by Rita Garcia, here we find Jezzica at odds with God. Her husband was killed just a few years prior, and she is still dealing with the struggle of moving on. When a new detective comes to town she immediately has mixed feelings. She has a distrust of police because of their lack of being able to find her husband's killers.

Zach is determined to reach her. He wants to be friends and wants to help her uncover the truth. Along the way the feelings on both sides increases. The question is, will Jezzica allow herself to move on and trust another man. Can she take that step to moving beyond the feeling of being unfaithful to her husband?

Jezzica's sister, Catylen, has her own struggles that we learn about. The difference is that she is trusting God. She has the relationship with God where she knows the love regardless of circumstances. When Jezzica watches how her sister deals with her own personal agony, will that allow Jezzica to find a way back to God?

I really enjoyed this book. I feel it did a great job of teaching about putting our trust in God regardless of what we might be going through. Each character had his or her own difficulties they had to deal with, and gave a lot of variety in situations. I feel this was a smart way to provide the knowledge that everyone has different struggles, and God can help you through any situation.

This book would be great for young adult along with women in general who love a good story. It also would be a good way to help someone in need, maybe someone who doesn't fully have God in their hearts and is in need of that.

You can find the book for yourself HERE

Rita Garcia lives in California with her husband. They have 4 children and 7 grandchildren. You can find out more about her at http://www.ritagarcia.com/

Disclosure: I received a free ebook copy of this book to review. I was not required to write a positive review. I was not compensated in any other way. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC regulations. I am a part of CWA review crew

I Carried an Angel by Staci A. Luker

I Carried an Angel is a true story about the short life of Barrett, Staci's first son.  Although Barrett never got the chance to live life on this earth, he has inspired countless people about a life of sacrifice, and the love of Christ. Through the heartbreak of learning about his death, to the days that followed, Staci has been able to share her family's love for Barrett and bring about a way to keep his name alive.
Each chapter follows Staci's journal of how she and her family learned to cope with the unspeakable tragedy.

When I first sat down to read the book, I grabbed a box of kleenex fully expecting to use it. Although the heartbreak is there, and as a mom, I found myself struggling to imagine what they went through, the book was different then I expected. Of course there are parts that were hard to read, but what was amazing was the focus while on the situation, brought about incredible joy of the Lord. Staci shares with us how Barrett's death caused her focus to be on Christ and in sharing it with others.

What I loved was how honest the book reads. It never sugar coated the feelings of despair, but allowed us to see that through Christ we can do all things, even things we never imagined we could conquer.

Barrett's Blankets is a ministry that Staci started because of her wishing she had the blanket from the time she held Barrett. Figuring others would benefit from it also, she began knitting wonderful blankets to share with other grieving parents. Before long, it was a huge success and she was able to not only share a blanket, but the message of Christ! You can find out more about it HERE

With how firmly planted in trusting God the family is, Barrett's short life will ultimately bring a multitude to Jesus. Barrett will never be forgotten.

Find out more about Staci on her blog at http://www.lukerfamilytales.com



Disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Above and Beyond by Sandra Brown

Kyla's husband Richard was killed in a terrorist attack while overseas. As Kyla is trying to catch a breath and move on with her young son, she finds herself drawn to a man she doesn't realize she knows.

Trevor was a soldier alongside Richard. By a stroke of coincidence, Richard ends up dying in the bunk where Trevor normally would have been. To aid his recovery, Trevor finds himself reading, and re-reading the love letters to Richard from Kyla. When he finds himself in love with her, he devises a plan to meet her.

While they are getting to know each other, Trevor is holding back a huge secret that could ruin everything. There is something Kyla doesn't yet know and Trevor hopes will never know.

Through a series of events, we follow them through struggles, love,  trust issues and finally the truth. Can they survive what secrets lie in the past or will it keep them from a lasting love?


MY THOUGHTS:

This story will keep you engaged from beginning to end. It is full of creative plot lines which pull you into the story. There is great depth to the story which allows us to visualize realistic people and situations. When reading this book I found myself with many different emotions from disliking Trevor for keeping the secret, to wanting Kyla to forgive him, to laughing alongside the actions of a toddler.
You will not be disappointed with Above and Beyond. Again Sandra Brown has brought us a hit!
I have lost count of how many times I have read this book over the years. Certain books just fit in a way that brings you back time and again. This is that book!
You can find the book for yourself here at www.amazon.com

Disclosure: I did not receive any compensation for this review. I had the book in my personal collection. My reviews are always honest and my opinions are my own.

Seaside Letters by Denise Hunter

When Tucker meets Sabrina while she is working at the local cafe, he decides he has to get to know her. When he overhears about an online group she is a part of, he joins and finds her. Disguised by their online user names, they begin to email back and forth. Throughout daily emails, they begin to learn about each other and create a unique bond.
Although Tucker and Sabrina talk at the cafe, Sabrina has not let Tucker in on her secret. When he asks  for help in locating his mystery online woman, the woman he loves, Sabrina has to make drastic choice. Can she spend time alone with Tucker without letting him know she has fallen for him? If someone else helps him in his search, they will definitely find out her most kept secret...which is something she does not want happening. How could she ever face Tucker if he was to find out that the woman he loves is her?


MY THOUGHTS:

Seaside Letters is part of a group of books based in Nantucket. What we find in this book is a refreshing look at love. It pulls from a place inside of all of us, the part of us that wants to be loved.
Although our stories are different, this book is relatable and authentic. I found myself connecting with the characters and wanting things to work out for them. From the main characters right down to the supporting characters
The book is very well-written. There is great depth of characters and descriptive in a way that draws us in where we can picture exactly where they are. This is a book I have read multiple times and will read again I'm sure. I highly recommend reading this book. Plan for a late night of reading:)
You can find Seaside Letters for sale HERE

Disclosure: I did not receive any compensation for this review. This book came from my own personal book collection. My reviews are always honest and my opinions are my own.

Disconnected by Bethany Daniel

I was excited to have the chance to read a copy of Disconnected. This is the "guys" side to the story of
Reconnected.   In Disconnected, we find the story from Liam's point of view.
What is interesting is that while the story is similar, it still has a different or opposing side to it. While we were able to connect to Katy is Reconnected, we find ourselves learning more about Liam's feelings in this story.

When Liam is approached by Hollywood, his new wife Katy decides the party life is not for her. She takes off one night during another party where she feels Liam is ignoring her. As we learn in this book, his love for her is not at all on the back burner. He loves her, he's just adjusting to dealing with this new life along with realizing what it takes to be a husband.
After four long years, they meet again and discover their love again and learn to follow the adventures life throws at them.

As we see Liam determined not to lose his wife again, we all can find some way of relating to the feelings brought about. Although I occasionally felt like I was reading the same book, I enjoyed the fact that we find more depth in the characters in this book. We begin to really fall in love with the characters and can imagine the places they will go and look forward to following them along on the journey.

I feel the author has some great stories and look forward to more in the future!
You can find my full review also of Reconnected on my blog.

Disclosure: I received an ebook copy of Disconnected in order to do this review. No other compensation was given. My reviews are always honest and my own opinion.

Cover Reveal of Disconnected by Bethany Daniels

COVER REVEAL

Book: Disconnected

Author: Bethany Daniels

DATE: Wednesday, July 3, 2013

Reminder - Your post must be live by 7am (EST) time in the USA

Disconnected Blurb:

Liam and Katy were high school sweethearts. Shortly after they graduated they ran off to Vegas to get married. Liam does theater acting and it's there that he is discovered by Excite Entertainment and flown to L.A.

Once he's in L.A his marriage takes the backseat to rubbing elbows with Hollywood's biggest and brightest. One night Liam throws a big party and Katy comes into their house filled with half dressed women. When Katy says she's going to leave, Liam doesn't believe her until he comes home from filming and finds a note that tears him apart.

Four years later, he's tried to move on but never let go of the love he has in his heart for his Katy. It's in a little town they are filming in that their paths cross again and Liam has to try and convince Katy that their love is worth fighting for

Book One: Reconnected Blurb: A fast paced love story! 

Katy Warren thought her life was perfect. Then her new husband, and also highschool sweetheart, gets discovered while theater acting and gets swept away to Hollywood. Once there, things change. Liam throws himself into the Hollywood life and ignores Katy.

One night after a particularly crazy party, Katy can't take it anymore and leaves Liam and his celebrity behind but doesn't get an official divorce.

Four years later, Liam goes to Georgia for filming and crosses paths with Katy again. But now she's just Kate and she has a boyfriend and she doesn't want anything to do with her marriage. Liam has other plans.

Reconnected purchase links:

Kindle - http://amzn.to/18GdO8G

Nook - http://bit.ly/18ujO1U

Kobo - http://bit.ly/11KtiWg

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/315543

Sony: https://ebookstore.sony.com/ebook/bethany-daniel/reconnected/_/R-400000000000001048551

iTunes:https://itunes.apple.com/au/book/reconnected/id650158303?mt=11

Paperback - http://amzn.to/ZkFCtS

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Author Bio:

Bethany Daniel lives in Texas with her husband and 2 boys. She enjoys reading, photography and of course, writing. When she's not doing that she spends a lot of time chasing her 3 and 4 year old!

Author links:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorbethanydaniel

Twitter: @author_bethanyd

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7085559.Bethany_Daniel

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Bethany-Daniel/e/B00CPUBPYI/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/authorbethanyd

Disclosure: I am part of a group to help promote the cover reveal of the author's new book.

A Wedding to Remember in Charleston S.C. by Annalisa Daughety

Sometimes in life, our biggest struggles are in direct conflict with what we are expected to be an expert at. This is where we find Summer. She is the owner of a wedding planning business. She and her co-worker, Ashley, do a great job on the weddings, have great success and love what they do. In her personal life though, Summer and her husband, Luke are dealing with some major struggles. In the past year, they have had to deal with many heartbreaks. When they find themselves unable to communicate the depth of their grief, they find themselves pulling away from each other when they should be drawing closer.

The return of Summer's former boyfriend complicates things even more. He somehow finds himself in places where he not only can grab some of Summer's attention, but also manages to pull Luke farther away from Summer. He finds that this can work to his advantage and maybe even work in his favor.

Ashley also has trouble of her own in the relationship department. A new man in her life causes her to deal with her past divorce and work on moving past it, which she isn't sure she can.

Through the struggles of marriage, Luke moves out to handle things by himself. Luke and Summer both see this as a temporary solution, because they are still very much in love. This time apart allows for some much needed soul searching. Will this separation keep them apart or can it be the one thing that allows them to find themselves more committed than ever?

As we follow them through their struggles, we catch a glimpse of their future. When they both allow God to be the center of their lives, they find themselves able to communicate on a more heart level. They learn that God is there for them in the hard times as well as the good times.


WHAT I THINK:

This is book 1 in a book with 2 full length books titled "Waterfront Weddings". In this first story, was an amazing story of marriage. I'm sure we have all had relationships that have gone through struggles, and in some way can relate to these characters. I felt a pull into the story which really made me feel a part of the story. I found myself cheering for some characters, while wanting to yell at others. I feel that is a good sign when you really connect with the book.
The characters have great depth to them. The overall story not only keeps your attention, but has good messages throughout.
I look forward to reading the other story and can't wait to share with you about them also!

You can find the book on amazon.com

Disclosure: I received the ebook copy from netgalley in exchange for doing a review. No other compensation was given. My opinions are always honest and my own.

A Hopeful Heart by Amy Clipston

A Hopeful Heart is the first book in a new series called  

"Hearts of the Lancaster Grand Hotel". 

When Hannah finds herself a young widow, she tries to help support her family by working housekeeping at a local hotel. Although her Mother in law is against her having a job outside the home (it's not typical for Amish women) ,She really enjoys her job and co-workers. 

When she begins to befriend a male guest, Trey, who has suffered similar losses, she learns the difficulties and reasons why the Amish prefer to keep to themselves and not become involved in the English world.  Hannah and her Brother in law,Joshua,have been working together to keep the farm going, but when  Hannah starts including Trey in her life outside the hotel, Hannah is seen as trouble and the trouble starts to affect her children.

To complicate the situation, Joshua is in love with Hannah. When she finally realizes that, she is also falling for Trey. Through many trials, Hannah finds herself in the midst of a difficult situation which could affect her whole family. Her choices could cause her to be shunned and to lose family members if she follows her heart to leave with Trey. She loves Joshua, but feels more of a friend to him and a way to keep her husbands memory alive. How will she make the right choice? What IS the right choice for her and her family?

MY THOUGHTS:

This book is a great read! I again found myself reading late into the night because I couldn't put it down. My sleep pattern is losing out to great books!  I felt this book to be a very realistic view of life, love and choices. Whether you are Amish or not, there are decisions we make every day that affect not only us, but those around us. In this book, we find a balance of both sides of the choices Hannah must make. I enjoyed the characters throughout. I found myself liking some of them and disliking others. Although the Mother in law seemed to be more on the manipulative side, I'm sure that by seeing it from her side we would find her heart and reasoning. Amish life seems to be rooted in very strict rules that they are supposed to follow without question, which would be the side of the Mother in law. Hannah is choosing to follow her heart and see what God has for her, whether it's to stay or go she will follow God. I love how there are discussion questions in the back. This would make a great book for a book club. I would give this book a 5 out of 5 stars. I highly recommend it , and already looking forward to book two of this series.

You can find this book at amazon.com

Disclosure: I received a print copy of this book from booksneeze.com in order to do my review. No other compensation was given. My reviews are always honest and my opinions are my own.

Kiss Me Awake by Julie Momyer

SUMMARY:

When Jaida was a baby, she was left by her biological mom in the bushes. When a young boy, Spencer, finds her, she is brought into his family. Spencer vows to protect her and care for her forever.

Fast forward to now. Jaida is delving into discovering who her mom really is. She doesn't know her name, but is desperate to find out what she can. While working as a detective, Jaida is searching not only for her mom, but also desperately trying to learn about and take down a man named Gale. She thinks he is a murderer and has a tie to her past.

Jaida and her co-worker Auggie are on Gale's trail. Gale is accusing their company of stealing 8 million dollars and thinks Jaida has it.  In the midst of all that's going on, Jaida finds herself in the middle of a conspiracy that is full of drama, suspense, mystery and intrigue. When Spencer returns to her life, Jaida finds herself dealing with her own past alongside finding out things which change who she is and what she thinks.

When she finds herself and others in danger, Jaida finds herself searching for truth. Praying for God's will is the hardest thing she has had to do, but the most important thing.

WHAT I THINK:

This is a wonderful story of not only suspense and intrigue, but also of redemption and forgiveness which is creatively intertwined throughout the entire book. I loved the path of twists and turns the book took. So many things you are not expecting.  I found myself getting excited when learning new things and realizing how it all made sense.
Not only is the book written well, it is very descriptive. You are given a great picture of what is going on and where you are.
This book kept me engaged the entire time. I had a hard time putting it down!  I highly recommend checking it out.
You can find the book at amazon.com.
Connect with the author at http://Juliemomyer.com and http://juliemomyerblog.com


Disclosure: I received an ebook copy of the book from netgalley.com in order to do my review. My reviews are always honest. My opinions are my own and may differ from others.

Grace Given by Beth Shriver

      In this book, we find Elsie and her family trying to find their way into a new community. They have moved from Virginia to Texas only the previous year. While learning to follow the changes of the community, and dealing with vandals hitting the Amish farms, they also are dealing with a family issue.  

Elsie's sister Katie left the community with Jake, and Elsie finds this especially hard because she thought their was something growing in her relationship with Jake. 

      Thankfully Elsie has a good friend in Gideon. He has been interested in Elsie for a long time and enjoys being there for her, and also hoping that Elsie will grow to love him. 

      Through circumstances with the English vandals, Elsie and Gideon find themselves growing closer as they search for the truth.

      When Katie returns, emotions run wild. In an already stressful time, we find yet another situation that requires faith, grace and forgiveness. Choices must be made and struggles met to do what is right.

Amazing story of love and forgiveness.

My Review:

I would give this book 5 out of 5 stars. I find myself intrigued by the Amish culture and enjoy reading books which give insight into their lives and why they choose to do things the way they do. This is Book 2 in the series "Touch of Grace" by Beth Shriver.  I read this one realizing that I had not yet read Book 1. Although I plan on going back and reading Book 1, I don't feel that not reading it first caused any difficulty in understanding what was going on in this book. I would recommend reading in order though, but that's just how I usually like to do things:)

This book is well-written, and kept my attention well past times that I should have been sleeping! Beth Shriver always puts together wonderful stories and I am thrilled to have the privilege  of sharing this one with you.

You can find a copy of this book at amazon.com

Disclosure: I received a print copy of this book through thebooketeria.com in order to do this review. My reviews are always honest and are my own opinion. My opinions may differ from  others.

Reconnected by Bethany Daniel

Summary:  

      Liam and Katy are high school sweethearts. They have grown up together and have finally fallen in love and gotten married. When Liam gets discovered by Hollywood, they realize their lives are changing. From the girls giggling and following him, to the parties and drinking, Katy realized she can not be apart of this life. During a huge party one night Katy takes off. What she doesn't do is divorce Liam.

      Fast forward 4 years and we find Katy (now Kate) enjoying the life she has created. When Hollywood brings a crew to film a movie in her town, she learns that Liam is the star of the movie. She is determined to stay away and not see him. When they meet by chance, she is reluctant to give him time. When she learns he is still in love with her, she wonders if they can actually start fresh while dealing with the complications of the past and the current. Including relationships with other people.

      As Katy and Liam grow close again, Katy's roommate Krista and Liam's co-star Scott find their own love.  When a crazed actress begins to cause trouble, they all find themselves in the middle of a dangerous situation. What happens when tragedy threatens their newly rekindled love?  Will they stand by each other, or will the world they've created fall apart?  

  

      Review: 

      Overall this is a great book. This is a first for author Bethany Daniel, and I feel it is a great start. The characters are personable and relatable, although I would have liked a little more detail about the characters.  I feel the story could have used more depth also. It seemed to move a little quickly, and I would have liked to know more about their lives. This is actually also a compliment because I feel the characters were good. I enjoyed what I read, just needed more.  

      This is a pretty quick read, and fun for a relaxing time. I look forward to reading more of her books and I recommend everyone checking this out. I think the more she writes it will only get better! You can find the book here at amazon.com

You can also find her on Facebook

Disclosure: I received an ebook copy in order to do this review. My reviews are always honest and my own opinions which may differ from others.

Romance of Grace by Jim McNeely

I was really looking forward to reading this book! I was interested to see what he would say, and how he would address this topic.  We learn from this book that grace can not be commanded or forced. We have to choose for ourselves to accept the grace given us. He starts out with relating the topic to both parables from the Bible, and to current movies and such. I feel this was a great way to introduce us to his thought process. It was great also for someone who might be new to the concept of Grace and might need help understanding.

We find that real grace happens when we stop focusing on the power of the forbidden, and our true desire is for God.  God loves us no matter what, and more than we can imagine. We see throughout this book that it isn't our love, but Christ's love. Jim McNeely does a great job explaining each topic carefully and in a way that anyone can understand. He explains through examples about law and the difference between being moral and good. We have an innate desire to sacrifice and he does a wonderful job relating this to grace.

The book is written well and is clear and easy to understand. He includes Bible Verses throughout each chapter to lead you to the truth found in the Bible. At the end of each chapter, the reader is provided with discussion questions meant to draw you closer in, and get you to think about what you have read.
I love that he speaks truth, and allows us, as the reader, the chance to discover this truth for ourselves.

Whether  you are a Christian or not, there is a lot of great information and direction for leading you closer in a relationship with Christ. It will strengthen your relationship and remind you of what grace really is.

We have a giveaway for starbucks card here :The Romance of Grace by Jim McNeely Description and Giveaway!


Disclosure:  I received an ebook copy of Romance of Grace in order to do this review. No other compensation was given. My reviews are always my honest opinion and may differ from others.

Joni and Ken : An Untold Love Story

                                                               

I was excited when I saw that I could review this book. I read her original book "Joni" when I was a kid, and saw the movie when it was in theaters. I was amazed at how she could trust God throughout her recovery from the accident, and the realization of how life changing this accident was. She was completely real and it was encouraging to me and many others.

In Joni and Ken: An Untold Love Story, we get an authentic look at their courtship and 30 year marriage. We see throughout the book that life isn't all easy or even enjoyable. Living with a quadriplegic person is hard even when you are in a committed relationship with them. We live through their struggles and accomplishments alongside them as we follow not only the present life, but the past 30 years. We find the reasons that this marriage works regardless of circumstances they face daily.

Although the majority of the book is from Joni's perspective, we learn alot about Ken also. We learn how open he is about his personal struggles he faced when realizing life with Joni is much more difficult than he imagined. He found he did allow some "fame feelings" to intrude in his feelings with how life would be. It's easy to glaze over some of the more difficult issues in a relationship when you can focus on the positive aspects, and when those aspects are known world wide, it's harder to ignore.

We follow the couple as they serve Christ through their travels, and ministries. Ken begins to feel he has taken a backseat in the relationship as Joni's personal and professional life takes over their day to day life.

Through the years, the marriage begins to feel more like  parallel living instead of the closeness that should accompany a marriage. They begin to feel overburdened, and Ken especially begins to find his patience stretched to the limits.

When Joni is diagnosed with cancer, and Ken finds himself delving into a deeper relationship with Christ, we find a new devotion and commitment to the marriage. They find themselves feeling closer than ever to Christ and each other. They make the marriage a priority daily. The little things Ken found himself overwhelmed with, now become more about serving and love.

I loved this book. It was a great story of true love, and how you can overcome any struggle with Christ in your life. It was obviously more directed to their personal struggle of quadriplegia, but I found the book a great help in ways that could encourage any marriage. I highly recommend everyone read this book!


Disclosure: I received an ebook copy of the book from book sneeze.com in exchange for my honest review. No other compensation was given. My opinions are my own and may differ from others.

The Fiddler by Beverly Lewis

Summary:

      This is book 1 in a series called Home to Hickory Hollow, about life in Amish country.  In this book we are introduced toAmelia. She is an English girl who is searching for the life she wants. She has spent most of her life playing the fiddle in concerts around the world. She really wants, and needs, some rest. She feels she is missing out on something and wants peace.
      In a rainstorm on her way home from a fiddle concert, outside her normal realm of music, she meets Michael. Michael is in the midst of his own search. He struggles with the decision of whether or not to join the Amish church. His family expects him to, but he feels a pull to the outside world even with his love of his family and the life at home.
      As they talk, they find themselves able to talk in a way neither has been able to before. When Amelia returns with him to Hickory Hollow, we follow her as she learns to find peace and return to a heart relationship with God. Through many struggles, and many heartfelt talks, we see how these friends begin to rely on each other to help find the life God wants for them both.

Review:

      I have always been interested in Amish stories. I think because of how simple they make life. I know I could not live the way they do, and some of their beliefs are not matched up with mine, but regardless, I find myself drawn to these books. I have read most of Beverly Lewis's books, and knew before I read this book I would like it. I was not disappointed. It was great! Her style of writing allows readers to become a part of the story and feel apart of the families in the book.
      This book weaved a wonderful story of friendship, love and ultimately a relationship with God. I found myself captivated and didn't want to put the book down. It made me wonder how I could apply what was in the story to my own life.
      The story flows in a way which keeps the reader interested and always looking forward. I highly recommend checking this book out. It will leave you wanting to know more. Yes, I am already reading book 2!

You can find the book at amazon.com
Disclosure: I did not receive compensation for this review. My reviews are always honest and are my own opinion.

Celebrate Mom with a giveaway of $800 in Amazon E-Gift Cards

Celebrating Moms

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Prize: There will be four winners total for this giveaway. One (1) winner will receive the Grand Prize of a $500 Amazon e-gift card! Three (3) winners will each receive a $100 Amazon e-gift card! The total value of all prizes included in this giveaway is $800 value in Amazon e-gift cards! Location: Must be a resident of the USA or Canada. Age: 18 years or older to enter. Void where prohibited. Date: This giveaway begins on 5/02/2013 and will end on 5/12/2013 (Mother's Day) at 12:01am Eastern time. Please support the sponsor and follow Save1 on:

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Disclosure: Love2EncourageYou and Lost Island of Book Reviews are not responsible for sponsor prize fulfillment. Lost Island of Book Reviews was not compensated for this post except for a link on the giveaway form. This giveaway is not associated with Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or Amazon in any way. Please see official rules in the Rafflecopter giveaway form. All winning entries will be verified.

The Chance

The Chance

by Karen Kingsbury

• Christian Fiction
• my rating is 5 out of 5 stars

       Summary:

                       This is a story of family and love. When Ellie is a teenager, she and her close friend Nolen talk of the future and marriage. When Ellie learns of her Mom's affair and that her Dad is planning to take her away with him, she panics. 

                        Before leaving, Ellie and Nolen bury letters they have written in a box written to each other, declaring their true feelings. The plan is to return and read them in exactly 11 yrs to the date if they don't meet up before that.

                         Choices are made by everyone involved which cause a multitude of heartache, and life is forever changed. There is a search not only for each other, but for God. They are all driven to a place of forgiveness throughout the story. 

                         It's an amazing journey of seeing how the Lord can work all things for good.

       Review: 

                         As always when reading a Karen Kingsbury book, this book had me in tears. Not only is the story well written, but the message of life, choices and ultimately forgiveness, lies throughout the book and can really touch the readers heart.

                         We find that through anger and trials that God is always with us and uses those around us to bring us home to him. 

                         I have read all of her books, and can truely say that in each one, I can relate to something in it. Her books draw me closer to God and always makes me examine my life and realize any changes that I need to make. Don't miss this wonderful story!

Disclosure: I received only an ebook of this in order to do the review. My opinions are my own and may differ from others.

Direct link to the book on amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Chance-Novel-Karen-Kingsbury/dp/1451647034/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1357347202&sr=1-1&keywords=the+chance+karen+kingsbury

Katie Opens her Heart

Katie Opens Her Heart

By Jerry Eicher

• Christian Fiction
• Amish life
• my rating is 5 out of 5 stars

  Summary:

   This book is the first in a new series called "Emma Raber's Daughter". In this book, Katie is a teenager living with her widowed mom, Emma. Due to the loss of her father and situations in her mom's past, Katie is kept from participating in the traditional Amish rumspringa. Katie and her mom are considered strange by the Amish community. Katie badly wants to be a part of the community and to have friends.

     One day, through a friend at work, Katie is invited to a mennonite birthday party. Although her mom is against it, Katie goes and had a great time. She feels comfortable and loved by the friends she meets and wants to continue to nurture the friendships by going to more get togethers with them.

      When Jesse comes to court Katie's mom, she sees this as a way for Emma to be happy, but also allow her to gain the life and freedom she deserves herself. Although there are many setbacks and obstacles  to overcome, this is the beginning of new life for them both.

     Review:

     I have always found books about the Amish lifestyle fascinating. The traditions have interested me in seeing how they live the simple life, not affected by all the trappings of the world. In this book again I was not disappointed. I had a hard time putting down the book. This is a great story with an interesting plot. I felt myself become a part of each of the characters and feeling how they felt in each circumstance. It was easy to put yourself in their place to see how each situation affected their life and their love.

      I look forward to the next book in this series, and can't wait to see what changes happen in Katie and Emma's lives and also watch new stories unfold in new characters. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a story of life, love and family.

Disclosure: I received an ebook in order to do this review. No other compensation took place. The opinions here are my own and may differ from yours.

Direct link to book: http://www.amazon.com/Katie-Opens-Heart-Rabers-Daughter/dp/0736952519/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1357170293&sr=8-1&keywords=katie+opens+her+heart