Book Review "A Life Creative" by Wendy Speake and Kelli Stuart

 

 

This book is an amazing inspiration to those mothers who are modern and crafty that use Pinterest, and blogs to help inspire their creative side. I loved this book other that the fact that it is naturally assumed that being a mom has stifled your creative side, if anything being a mother and grandmother made my creative side perk up more than ever. Everywhere I looked and everything I saw I would get ideas of how I wanted to use everything or up cycle an item for a different use.

 

Mothers automatically take on creative roles when coming to ideas for Halloween costumes, ideas for birthday parties, decorating children's rooms in a creative colorful theme that will be the envy of all other littles. As my children have gotten older and now I have become a grandmother my creative side shines even more. I now sew boutique clothes (had boys now a grand daughter in the mix), make hairbows, and blog. "Life Creative" is an amazing book and every mother needs to read this book.

 

 

Book Review "A Beauty Refined" by Tracie Peterson

 

 

 

"A Beauty Refined" is a Christian historical romance novel written by Tracie Peterson. I absolutely love any book written by Tracie Peterson, this one was no exception. There is just enough mystery and romance to keep you turning the pages till there are no more. Definitely one that is hard to put down as I have come to expect from Peterson. Phoebe travels to America with her father from their German home to source sapphires for a client. Phoebe meets Ian and Ian realizes that Phoebe does not know the true nature of her father or the family secrets including the fact that her father has an abusive nature (has led Phoebe to believe that her mother is dead). Phoebe turns to Ian for advice and due to his troubled personal history he believes in complete honesty. What Phoebe wants is not what her father has planned for her This book is about discerning God's will, which becomes especially difficult by being brought up without a religious foundation, add to that the family secrets that have the potential to place Phoebe in danger. This is a must read, book 2 in the sapphire brides series, each book can be read as a standalone.

 

Disclosure I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for a true unbiased review of this book.

Book Review "The Inheritance" by Michael Phillips

If you are looking for a fast paced action filled book "The Inheritance" is not the book for you. If you are looking for a tale that slowly unwinds and focuses on what is happening beneath the surface of things then I imagine you will like "The Inheritance". Michael Phillips writes in a slow, classical style not unlike George MacDonald (Victorian Scottish author whose writings were foundational in leading C.S. Lewis from Atheism to Christianity). Phillips did not want MacDonald's novels being lost to history so he made it his goal to bring his name back to prominence he published updated and edited editions of his writings as well as in their original editions.  Fans already know and love his style, but people unfamiliar with his writing might want to consider what they are looking for in a story. 


"The Inheritance" is a historical fiction book that takes place a small Scottish island (this intrigued me because I am of Scottish, Irish descent). I am major ADD, so I had a hard time following the story as it jumps from places and people. This is the first book in "The Secrets of the Shetlands" series, not sure I will read anymore as I have to be more drawn in. Do not get me wrong Phillips is an excellent author this just was not the book for me.

Disclosure I was provided a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for my honest unbiased review of this book.



Book Review "Fetching Sweetness" by Dana Mentink

"Fetching Sweetness" is a breath of fresh air, this book is just what I needed to get out of my fall funk. This is the 2nd book in Dana Mentink's series "Sit, Stay, Love. I did not read the first in his series, but if this book is any indication it will be top on my must read list. This was a heartwarming story with lots of animal feel goodliness, and trust me I am one for that all da long as I am an animal lover especially dogs. I love how Dana weaves her tales around a central pet that one just can’t help but want to meet.

Sweetness steals the show. Imagine an oversized dog with a penchant for spatulas and rescuing things (this is so my rescue dog Harley). His antics keep the two main characters on their toes and kept me smiling through the book.
Stephanie and Rhett are two characters both struggling in their walk with God. Their adventures through the Pacific Northwest basically brings them to their knees and to the point of seeking God’s will instead of their own.
If you love animals and Contemporary Christian fiction this is a great book to end your summer vacation on. You might find yourself heading off to the shelter to see if you can find a  your own Sweetness (or Harley).

Disclosure I received a complimentary copy of this book fro the publisher for an honest unbiased review of this book.

Review of "When Death Draws Near

Have you ever encountered an author you immediately connected with? One whose writing sucks you in and keeps you enthralled until the last page? One whose characters touch something deep in your being? Well for me that is Carrie Stuart Parks. You see, I love suspense — the twists and turns, the peek-between-the fingers moments and the page-turning goodness. And when I find an author who combines all of that plus excellent writing, multi-layered characterization and a plot that really could happen, I am hooked. But when I find an author, such as Parks, who can relate spiritual truths seamlessly while giving me goosebumps, I am going to buy her books every time. All of that to say, "When Death Draws Near",is another winner! This one is highly recommended.

Gwen Marcey returns in the third book by Parks. "When Death Draws Near"  finds Gwen way out of her comfort zone in the heart of rural, Appalachian Kentucky where accents, food and snake-handling worship are definitely foreign. Gwen is in Pikeville to help the local sheriff with a serial rapist case, but soon finds herself drawn into an investigation of mysterious deaths some attribute to the secretive practices of a Pentecostal congregation. Gwen must rely on her forensic skills as well as intuition and mamma-bear instincts to solve the case and save herself and her daughter.

When Death Draws Near is suspense at its best. With a determined investigator who draws upon deep reserves of courage and faith, this novel becomes a race against time for both the characters and the reader. I just could not put this one down! Gwen is a fascinating character. Intelligent and tenacious, she is also vulnerable in her dealings with ex-husband Richard and her struggle with breast cancer. Gwen does a great deal of wrestling with God as she doubts the effectiveness of prayer, but yet knows that’s all she’s got. I could really identify with that. The setting of the novel is perfect. Parks created a small town and culture that I could easily see. Her Southernisms were spot on and gave me a few chuckles. As in her other books, Parks’ subject matter involves a religious cult, but this time she adds a refreshing twist. And if you are a fan of CSI or Criminal Minds, you are going to love When Death Draws Near. Parks’ own expertise shines through. Believe me, the book is definitely better!

When Death Draws Near can be read as a standalone, but I recommend you travel with Gwen from the very beginning. Her character’s growth is the best part of the series. I impatiently await the next installment in the Gwen Marceyseries.

Disclosure was given a free copy of book from the publusher for my free unbiased review of this book

Review of "Murder Mezzo Forte" by Donn Taylor

This book continues the story of Preston and Mara and their investigative escapades. This is book two of this series. This book definitely stands alone on it's own Good for me cause I have yet to read "Rhapsody in Red". on it's own, good for me as I have not yet read "Rhapsody in Red". After reading this book, I am definitely going to pick up 'Rhapsody in Red"

Murder is not funny, but Taylor brings humor to this story which takes away some of the darkness which for me is good. I absolutely loved this book and the writing style of Taylor. This book kept me guessing til the end which is what a good mystery  does. "Murder Mezzo Forte", is such a good book, it's a real page turner, the kind you don't want to put down til you finish the book. 

When Preston and Mara find the body of fellow professor, Mitra Fortier, after she has summoned them to her office. This is a story full of twist and turns from the start. Since they had solved a murder before, they were expected to solve this one. 

There is also a bit of romance between Preston and Mara that adds to the story. They are always trying to be very careful because of the jeopardy it may bring to their jobs. The musical hallucinations of Preston give us a huge glimpse into his personality and humor. 

This was a fun book to read and if you enjoy a good mystery, you'll enjoy this book. I highly recommend it!

Disclaimer I was provided a free copy of this book by Litfuse Publicity Group for a my honest unbiased review of this book. 

Book Review of "Through the Shadows" by Karen Barnett

This is the first book I have read by Karen Barnet, but will not be the last. This was a book I did not want to put down. This book is number 3 in the Golden Gate series.

The novel takes place two years after the devastating earthquake that destroys most of San Francisco. Many of the citizens have lost everything and are trying to just stay a float, this is true for Elizabeth. Her father’s investments were lost both in the earthquake and the fire that followed. It is this combined with her love of making a difference, that sees her travel to San Francisco. She wants to put her past behind her, join her siblings and make a difference in the lives of young girls who are sold into slavery. She meets up with Charles, a young man who wants to make a positive difference in politics and the lives of the people he meets.

Through the Shadows is an amazing tale of forgiveness, healing and love against all odds. The characters fight against the social constraints of society towards women, men and even foreigners, corruption that goes unpunished and the societal norm. It leaves you with hope and understanding. A fantastic read from start to finish, that leaves you craving just a little bit more!

Review of "Hunting Hope" by Nika Maples

It is truly amazing the stories of her friends that she shares. I reccomend this book to everyone having a hard time finding hope.
"Hunting Hope" is a story of how Nika Maples dug through the darkness to find light.

My absolute favorite part of this book is at the end of the book there is a list of chapter by chapter with Bible verses to go along with the chapter so that you can really did deep and study Gods word.

If your looking for a book to help you find hope in a world that is full of brokenness Hope Hunting might just be the book for you. I would give this book 5 stars.

Disclaimer this book was provided free of charge from Litfuse publicity group in exchange for my honest unbiasedreview. The words and thoughts contained are mine and mine alone.

Review of "Someone Like You" by Victoria Bylin

I found that when I started "Someone Like You" its one if those just one more page and then your at the end of the book. The author did such a good job of writing a story containing main characters who felt so very real. Zeke and Julia were characters who I immediately connected with. They had a rough history full of love loss and pain. In the years that they've been apart Zeke and Julia have changed, they are surprised to find out that the spark that drew them to each other was still there, as they are thrown together by work. The decisions that they had made in the five years they had been apart may prevent a future.
 It became very clear that this book was going to be full of tearful moments. Spiritual issues are revealed by the fact that Julia is a new Christian and Zeke is a Christian that has fallen out of sync in his walk of faith. Throw into the mix Julua's son in need of a strong male figure, an ex that is on the verge of being emotionally abusive, you have yourself a real page turner.

The setting of the Caliente Springs resort was a wonderful place, so wonderful that it was a place I wanted to be. "Someone Like You" met and exceeded all expectations. This is Bylin's third book with Bethany House.

Review of "Mermaid Moon" by Colleen Coble

"Mermaid Moon" is the second book in the Sunset Cove series. "Mermaid Moon" is another great book that is an exciting addition to the Sunset Cove series. There is no shortage of mysteries in this story starting wit the mysteries from Mallory's past to the mysterious death of her father. The suspense will keep you on your toes until the end! It was difficult to figure out who the "bad guy" was! Throw in a romance rekindled between the two main characters and you want to read just one more chapter! "Mermaid Moin" is full of twistd, mystery and usexpected surprises. The setting is on an island in Maine makes that makes the story even better! I highly recommend Mermaid Moon to anyone who likes suspense.I rst the book a 5 out of 5. Disclaimer I was given A free copy if the book for my under biased review. The words an opinions of this book are mine and mine alone.

"A Dream of Miracles" by Ruth Reid

Disclaimer I was provided a free copy of this book from the publisher in return for an honest review. The words contained here are my own. This is the first book I have read from Ruth Reid. I will be reading more of her books. Mattie is a young widow with 2 toddlers. She is barely able to keep the farm going even with the help of her Amish community. Then her son gets sick and the new doctor is not helpful. When she takes her son to the hospital, the doctor calls the authorities and accuses her of child abuse. Bo is a very successful social worker. He really cares about the kids. Mostly because he was once in the foster care system, so he truly understands. When he is assigned Mattie’s son as a case of suspected child abuse, he is able to understand the tension between the Amish and the English community, especially the health care and legal issues. This is an easy to read book. Ruth Reid is an amazing story teller. Thus is the third book in this series. I will enjoy reading more in this series.

Book Review of "Bachelor Girls Guide to Murder" by Racheal McMillian

I received this book free of charge from the Publisher for my honest review. The words and thoughts about this book are my own. I live when reading a book that I can get lost in the story that I can imagine being there. Well Rachel McMillian's debut book does just this. There are three protagonists: Merinda, Jem and Ray DeLuca. Each character has chapters written from their point of view. However, the book is more focused on Jem and Ray. The book was an bsolute page turner. I did find the novel interesting. Believe it or not, I actually liked the romance in this novel. The lovebirds took some time to get to know each other, and their first kiss wasn’t magical, like in most books, it was quite awkward and funny – at least for the readers. I liked Jem. She is a mix of traditional and modern women. On one hand, she wants a husband and a family, but she also wants to be a detective. The brains before this operation is Merinda, but I think Jem likes to be a detective as well. I don’t know what to say about Merinda. She’s not a the best friend out there. She is not good at consoling her best friend when she’s hurt -be it physically, or emotionally-, and she appears to be quite self-centered. Or maybe I am judging her too harshly. Let put it this way: Merinda is a good and interesting fictional character, but I wouldn’t be her friend in real life. I would’ve like to know more about Jem and Merinda – their backgrounds. I did get some bits of info, but not enough. Same with Ray and Jasper. Overall, I enjoyed reading this book. I give this novel a rating of 4/5.