Tea Planter's Wife - A Review

Published - June 2017, Random House
Author - Dinah Jefferies
Title - The Tea Planter's Wife
Format - ebook, paper, hardcover, audio
Find on Amazon

About the book (Goodreads):
#1 International bestselling novel set in 1920s Ceylon, about a young Englishwoman who marries a charming tea plantation owner and widower, only to discover he's keeping terrible secrets about his past, including what happened to his first wife, that lead to devastating consequences. Nineteen-year-old Gwendolyn Hooper is newly married to a rich and charming widower, eager to join him on his tea plantation, determined to be the perfect wife and mother. But life in Ceylon is not what Gwen expected.  The plantation workers are resentful, the neighbours treacherous, and there are clues to the past - a dusty trunk of dresses, an overgrown gravestone in the grounds - that her husband refuses to discuss. Just as Gwen finds her feet, disaster strikes. She faces a terrible choice, hiding the truth from almost everyone, but a secret this big can't stay buried forever....

My Thoughts:
First of all let me say that the cover of this book is beautiful. It caught my eye and made me want to read it. Then the back cover copy intrigued me as well. So I requested it to review.

I wasn't prepared for how slow the book was. I wasn't prepared for how long it took to really get into the action. I'll admit that I've had this book for several months. I'd start it, then get bored with it, and put it down, only to pick it up again several weeks later. I'm not sure if the reason it wasn't holding my interest was because it was so slow moving or if I just wasn't interested in it. 

The author did a really good job in developing the characters. They had a lot of depth to them. I just wish that that process had happened sooner in the book rather than later.

I rarely will look at the reviews of a book that I'm currently reviewing. I did in this case. Most of them are very positive. I just know that this particular book wasn't for me. Someone else may love it, and according to the reviews, several do. 

I received this book for free from the Blogging for Books program. I was not required to like the book, only to give my honest opinion, which I have done.

Rating - 2 stars

Name Unknown - A Review

Published - July 2017, Bethany House
Series - Shadows Over England Book 1
Author - Roseanna M. White
Title - A Name Unknown
Format - ebook, paper
Find on Amazon

About the book:
Rosemary Greshman is a thief. She's one of the best in the business actually. When she's approached to go undercover in order to find proof that Peter Holstein is either loyal to England or to Germany, Rosemary agrees. After all, those she calls family could really use the money. Peter Holstein is a bit of a recluse. He's got a few close friends, but his name and his ties to Germany cause people to doubt his loyalty. That and the fact that he's hiding something - he uses a pen name to write his popular adventure series. When Rosemary shows up as a librarian, Peter sees her as an answer to prayer. Yet as he slowly starts to draw close to her, Rosemary begins realize that he really is more than his name.

My Thoughts:
I really enjoyed this book. There was an element of suspense that I found refreshing. I was immediately drawn into the book. There were nights that I simply couldn't put it down.

I loved Rosemary's search. Not just for information about Peter, but also her deeper search into who she was and why bad things happen. I loved how loyal she was to her family, yet wasn't afraid to make a decision for herself.

I actually thought that Peter was rather endearing. In some ways he reminded me of Beast from Beauty and the Beast, but in others he didn't. I loved how he could express himself better in paper than verbally. I also loved his friends.

Overall, this was an excellent read.

I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher in order to give my honest opinion. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of WWI, Roseanna M. White, Kate Breslin, Jody Hedlund

Rating - 4 stars

Captain's Daughter - A Review

Published - June 2017, Bethany House
Series - London Beginnings Book 1
Author - Jennifer Delamere
Title - The Captain's Daughter
Format - ebook, paper
Find on Amazon

About the book (Goodreads):
When a series of circumstances beyond her control leave Rosalyn Bernay alone and penniless in London, she chances upon a job backstage at a theater which is presenting the most popular show in London. A talented musician and singer, she feels immediately at home and soon becomes enthralled with the idea of pursuing a career on the stage.

An injury during a skirmish in India has forced Nate Moran out of the army until he recovers. Filling his time at a stable of horses for hire in London, he has also spent the past two months working nights as a stagehand, filling in for his injured brother. Although he’s glad he can help his family through a tough time, he is counting the days until he can rejoin his regiment. London holds bitter memories for him that he is anxious to escape. But then he meets the beautiful woman who has found a new lease on life in the very place Nate can’t wait to leave behind

My Thoughts:
First let me say that the cover is beautiful. It was because of the cover that I requested this title to review. And the back cover caught my attention as well. It made me want to read this book. 

That said, I struggled. I struggled more than I usually do when reading. After a prologue that drew me in and begged me to keep going, the book fell flat. I would read it for about 5 pages before deciding something else was more interesting (my cat, another book, the current crochet project, sleep, or something). This happened more than once for me. So I struggled to read more than 5 pages at a time. I don't know if it was the author's style or if I felt no connection to the characters. I think it was probably a bit of both.

I didn't connect to the main characters at all. When all is said and done, I'm like who? I also saw that there were several plot lines that had the potential to be wonderful, but sadly they fell flat or were dropped entirely. As a reader, that frustrated me. I'm ok with not everything being tied up in a pretty little bow, but I mean, come on! Don't start something and don't finish it. Or at least give me a satisfying end to the plot line.

I truly hate leaving a more negative than positive review. I looked at the reviews on Amazon and on Goodreads. There are quite a few highly positive ones. Then there are a few others who felt similar to me. Don't take my word for it. If the book sounds interesting to you, try it. You make truly enjoy it. I just know that this author and this book in general weren't for me.

I received a copy of the book from the publisher for the purpose of reviewing. I wasn't asked to like the book, only to give my honest opinion on it, which I have done. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Rating - 2 stars

Long Time Gone - A Review

Published - March 2017, Bethany House
Series - Cimarron Legacy Book 2
Author - Mary Connealy
Title - Long Time Gone
Format - ebook, paper
Find on Amazon

The Bodens are still in danger. Someone wants their ranch. With Chance recovering in Denver, the running of the ranch falls to his children - Cole, Justin, and Sadie. Only now Cole's been shot and is fighting for his life. Justin and Heath, Sadie's husband, put plans in place to find the traitor. To complicate matters, the beautiful Angie DuPree is staying at the ranch to help ensure that Cole is on the mend. Justin finds the woman to be a big distraction. Will having her at the ranch put her life in danger?

It was a delight to return to the Cimarron Ranch. I saw the sparks between Justin and Angie in the first book, and eagerly devoured their story. While the problems at the ranch didn't get completely resolved in this book, there have been some that were resolved. I can't wait for the third book to really wrap up the ends.

I received this book for free from the publisher for the purpose of providing my honest opinion. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Mary Connealy, westerns, historical fiction

Rating - 4 stars

Moonbow Night - A Review

Published - January 2017, Revell Books
Author - Laura Frantz
Title - A Moonbow Night
Format - ebook, paper
Find on Amazon

Summary (from Amazon):
After fleeing Virginia, Temperance Tucker and her family established an inn along the Shawnee River. It's a welcome way station for settlers and frontiersmen traveling through the wild Cumberland region of Kentucke--men like Sion Morgan, a Virginia surveyor who arrives at the inn with his crew looking for an experienced guide. When his guide appears, Sion balks. He certainly didn't expect a woman. But it is not long before he must admit that Tempe's skill in the wilderness rivals his own. Still, the tenuous tie they are forming is put to the test as they encounter danger after danger and must rely on each other. With her signature sweeping style and ability to bring the distant past to vivid life, Laura Frantz beckons readers to join her in a land of Indian ambushes, conflicting loyalties, and a tentative love that meanders like a cool mountain stream.

My Thoughts:
This book was wonderful. It started off really slow, so it took me a while to get into it, but once I did, I really enjoyed it.

Unlike some of her other novels, the romance in this one takes a backseat to the story itself. I loved how both Sion and Tempe struggled with letting go of their pasts. I loved the detail about how the surveyors traveled. I never gave much thought to how the "frontier" was settled during the Revolution.

Fans of Laura Frantz will definitely enjoy this book. I look forward to what she has coming next.

I received a copy of this book for free as part of the Revell Reads review program. I was asked to give my honest opinion about this book. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Laura Frantz, Lori Benton, Jody Hedlund

Rating - 4 stars

Newton & Polly - A Review

Published - September 2016, Waterbrook
Author - Jody Hedlund
Title - Newton & Polly
Format - ebook, paper, audio
Find on Amazon

Before John Newton wrote the words to one of the world's most famous hymns, he was a young man trying to find his way. He's on his way to report to working on a ship when he hears the enchanting voice of Polly Catlett while she is caroling. He is instantly smitten and vows to win her heart. Polly is also attracted to John, but his disregard for the Christian life is a huge barrier to their romance. That and the fact that John can't hold a job. Will Polly be able to hold firm to her convictions even if it means giving up the man she loves?

I've heard a lot about John Newton's life growing up. In fact, the hymn Amazing Grace is one that is probably on my list of favorites. But I didn't know much about his early life.

This book pulled me in from the beginning. At the time that I received this book, I was in a bit of a reading slump, and nothing was holding my interest. Then this book arrived in my mailbox. It's been on my list for a long time as the author is one of my favorites. So I started reading it. Over the course of a weekend, I was in engrossed in John and Polly's story.

I never realized how exciting of a time that these two lived in. I also never knew exactly what sort of obstacles that God put in Newton's path to get his attention.

To say that I loved this book, would be an understatement. I loved it. But I think what I loved the most about it is the picture of grace that is portrayed throughout.

I received a complimentary copy of the book as part of the Blogging for Books program in order to share my honest opinion about the book. I was not required to like the book, only share my honest opinion of it. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Jody Hedlund, Lynn Austin, historical fiction, Amazing Grace

Rating - 5 stars

Waves of Mercy - A Review

Published - October 2016, Bethany House Publishers
Author - Lynn Austin
Title - Waves of Mercy
Format - paper, ebook
Find on Amazon

Anna Nicholson is spending time at the Ottawa Hotel on the shores of Lake Michigan to figure out where she wants her life to go after breaking her engagement. As she searches for answers about her past and her future, she meets a young seminary student who encourages her to ask questions. This young student is a close friend of Geesje de Jonge, one of the early settlers to Holland, Michigan. Geesje has been asked to write her story of leaving the Netherlands and arriving in Michigan. As she begins to write her story, she shares both her heartaches and happiness. Anna's young friend wants to have her meet Geesje simply because Geesje's story may help Anna through her struggles. What neither woman could expect is how closely their lives will become entwined.

I loved this book. Absolutely loved it. This is one of those books that lingered after I finished reading it. I've read a lot of Lynn Austin's books over the years, my favorite being Eve's Daughters. This book reminds me a lot of Eve's Daughters in how rich it was.

For anyone wanting a historical romance, sorry, this one's not for you. There are layers upon layers to both Anna and Geesje's stories. And yes there is some romance, especially as Geesje shares her story. But what I loved about this book was how both women searched for answers. I loved how their journeys were similar in their searches. There was a depth to these characters that has been missing from the books I've enjoyed lately.

I received this book for free as a part of Bethany House's blogging program. I was not required to like the book, only to give my honest opinion of it. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Jody Hedlund, Laura Frantz, Joanne Bischof, historical fiction

Rating - 5 stars

Room for Hope - A Review

Published - February 2016, Waterbrook
Author - Kim Vogel Sawyer
Title - Room for Hope
Format - ebook, paper, audio
Find on Amazon

Summary from Amazon:
Neva Shilling has a heavy load of responsibility while her husband travels to neighboring communities and sells items from his wagon. In his absence, she faithfully runs the Shilling Mercantile, working to keep their business strong as the Depression takes its toll, and caring for their twins. When a wagon pulls up after supper, Neva and her children rush out—and into the presence of the deputy driving a wagon carrying three young children. The deputy shocks her with the news that Warren and his wife have died, insisting it was their last request that the three children go live with “Aunt Neva.” Neva’s heart is shattered as she realizes that Warren’s month-long travels were excuses for visits with his secret family. She wants nothing more than to forget Warren, but can she abandon these innocent children to an orphanage? Yet if she takes them in, will she ever be able to see them as more than evidence of her husband’s betrayal and love them the way God does?

My Thoughts:
I've read a lot of Kim Vogel Sawyer's books. This one though was HARD. Not so much that it was hard to read because it wasn't. But the fact that the topic was a hard one. 

Neva was a strong character. She didn't ask for the responsibility of three young children. But she took it. As much as she was hurting, she tried hard to to keep her husband's memory positive - both for her children as well as for the three young children. Yet I found that she really relied on God to see her through. 

Let me be honest. If this wasn't a review title, I probably wouldn't have picked it up. The topic didn't interest me though the cover did draw me in. I'm glad that I did pick it to read and to review. Because I found a really good book.

I received this book for free from Blogging for Books for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Jody Hedlund, Laura Frantz, Karen Kingsbury

Rating - 4 stars

Lady Unrivaled - A Review

Published - September 2016, Bethany House
Series - Ladies of the Manor Book 3
Author - Roseanna M. White
Title - Lady Unrivaled
Format - ebook, paper, audio
Find on Amazon

Lady Ella Mysterson always finds a reason to smile. When she overhears her brother and his wife discussing the Fire Eyes, Ella is determined to ensure that her family is safe. Danger follows those in possession of the Fire Eyes, and Ella won't let her family be threatened again. She heads to the Cotswolds for an extended visit. James Cayton, an earl and cousin to the Duke of Stafford, is a man grieving. He's lost his wife before he could convince himself to love her. He's also broken the heart of another young lady. Now, he's determined to change his ways, and not get involved with anyone. Yet, he soon finds himself drawn into the danger surrounding the Fire Eyes. With a determination to keep his young daughter from danger, and Lady Ella, Cayton has to risk his heart. Can he open himself up to love?

This is the conclusion of the Ladies of the Manor series. It really is best to read them in order to follow the Fire Eyes on their journey.

I liked Lady Ella from the time that I first met her. I thought that she was very bubbly and a sweet. I wasn't wrong. But in this, her story, I learned that she's so much more than what she had first seemed. She's got a depth to her that I didn't expect. I loved how she and Cayton kept insisting that they didn't like each other, but you could tell that they did.

I loved watching how Cayton changed from the first book to this one. He redeemed himself from his actions in the first book in this one. I loved how he finally recognized what he was supposed to do and did it.

I really enjoyed this entire series. Book 2 was my favorite though.

I received this book for free from the publisher for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Jody Hedlund, Kristi Ann Hunter, Tamera Alexander, historical fiction

Rating - 4 stars

Elegant Facade - A Review

Published - July, 2016 Bethany House
Author - Kristi Ann Hunter
Series - Hawthorne House Book 2
Title - An Elegant Facade
Format - ebook, paper, audio
Find on Amazon

Lady Georgina Hawthorne plans to marry well. She wants a man with a title. She has planned her debut down to the last detail, and is determined to be the belle of the season. Colin McCrae has money and business connections, but no title. Due to his powerful connections, he is invited everywhere. The few encounters that he has had with Lady Georgina, he finds her shallow and selfish. But Lady Georgina has a secret. One that Colin is too close to discovering. Yet despite their mutual dislike of each other, there is an attraction that neither one is ready to admit. Will love be sacrificed to make dreams come true?

When I read the first book in this series last fall, I absolutely adored it. I loved the relationships between the Hawthorne siblings. So I was thrilled to be able to read this book. It's been on my radar since I finished the first one.

This book starts before the end of the first one, but several of the scenes are from a different perspective. I loved Colin. I thought he was classy and had a sense of humor. I didn't like Georgina, though she did grow on me. I found Georgina to be spoiled, selfish, and shallow. I'll admit that by the end of the book, I had come to not only feel bad for her, but to like her as well.

I loved the Hawthorne siblings. I can't wait to see them again.

I received this book for free from Bethany House for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Jody Hedlund, Karen Witemeyer, Kristi Ann Hunter

Rating - 4 stars

Magnolia Duchess - A Review

Published -April 2016, Revell Books.
Series - Gulf Coast Chronicles Book 3
Author - Beth White
Title - Magnolia Duchess
Format - ebook, paper
Find on Amazon

Fiona Lanier is out on the beach when she receives word that her twin brother has been imprisoned by the British. Her family builds ships for the Americans during the War of 1812. Shortly after receiving the news of her brother, she stumbles across a man washed up on the beach. She recognizes him as Charlie Kincaid. Charlie has been undercover for the past six months. When he awakens on a beach with no memory, he can only trust what his beautiful rescuer says about him. But as his memories begin to return, Charlie and Fiona learn that falling in love is wrought with danger especially in light of varying political loyalties.

The cover caught my eye first on this book. I love it. It's so elegant and pretty. But the cover alone wasn't, unfortunately, to hold my attention.

Like the others in this series, it is very rich in history. I'll admit that I've not read a lot of books set during the period of the War of 1812, at least set in America that is. So the history of the period intrigued me. But, this book really didn't hold my attention. I found myself very easily distracted by my library books, or others to read and review.

The characters themselves didn't make much of an impression on me either, so I can't really say much about them. I did enjoy the action and the adventure part of the story.

While others may love this book, this is probably one I'll not really read again. I really felt rather blah about the whole books

I received a free copy of the book from Revell for the purpose of reviewing. I was not required to like the book, only give my honest opinion, which I've done. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of American history, Lori Benton, Beth White

Rating - 3 stars

A Sweet Misfortune - A Review

Published - February 2016, Revell Books
Series - Virtues and Vices of the Old West Book 2
Author - Maggie Brendan
Title - Sweet Misfortune
Format - ebook, paper
Find on Amazon

Summary from Amazon:
Rachel Matthews isn't one to rely on others to take care of her. Destitute and alone, she still wants to make her own way and her own money--even if she's forced into the life of a dance hall girl. Horrified by her circumstances, Rachel's brother sends a friend--the widely admired cattle baron John McIntyre--to rescue her, then sets off to earn enough money to buy back the family ranch. But when months pass without her brother's return, Rachel isn't sure she can take one more day in John McIntyre's home--especially once she discovers that he's the one who holds the deed to her family's ranch.

My Thoughts:
This was a quick read. A really quick  read, and for that I was very grateful. It's also not very in depth, but it was still a fun, good book.

I loved watching John and Rachel interact. Sometimes, they were quite hilarious. Other times, I wanted to shake them both. But still, their story was a light-hearted read.

While this is book 2 of a series, it stands completely alone. It's set a few years earlier than book 1, and none of the characters overlap. I'll still read book 3 because I'm enjoying this series.

I received this book for free from Revell for the purpose of reviewing. My thougths and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Karen Witemeyer, Maggie Brendan, westerns, historical romance

Rating - 4 stars

Beyond the Silence - A Review

Published - January 2016, Bethany House Publishers
Authors - Tracie Peterson & Kimberley Woodhouse
Title - Beyond the Silence
Format - ebook, paper, audio
Find on Amazon

Lillian Porter longs to fulfill her mother's dream of going west. When she learns of a nanny position in Angels Camp, California, she jumps at the chance to go. Yet upon her arrival, Lillian learns that there are rumors flying around town about her employer, Woodward Colton, a local olive farmer. According to the gossip, he murdered his wife. Lillian tries not to listen to the rumors, especially after meeting Woody's son, her new charge. Jimmy hasn't spoken since the day he witnessed his mother's murder. As Lillian becomes a part of this family, she sees how much both father and son are hurting. Can she help draw them both out? And when it becomes clear that danger is still threatening the Colton family, will Woody be able to keep Lillian safe like he couldn't with his wife?

This book started off a little slow for me. But as the story unraveled, I was captivated. I've read a lot of Tracie Peterson's books in the past, but I think that this was my first Kimberley Woodhouse book.

The characters were complex. Way more than I expected. Woody's a troubled man who knows he is innocent but is seen as guilty in the eyes of the town. Jimmy stole my heart. The child who hasn't spoken since his mother's death has a lot to say. I loved how Lillian worked with him and figured out a way to get him to respond. Then there's Harry. The simple-minded gentle giant who has a heart of gold.

I've got to admit, that I learned a lot about olive growing in this book. And that some olives are better for olive oil and others for the table. I never imagined the process that it takes to grow & process olives.

I received this book for free from Bethany House for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Tracie Peterson, Jody Hedlund, Mary Connealy

Rating - 4 stars

An Undaunted Hope - A Review

Published - January 2016, Bethany House Books
Series - Beacons of Hope Book 3
Author - Jody Hedlund
Title - An Undaunted Hope
Format - ebook, paper
Find on Amazon

Tessa Taylor is looking forward to starting over in Michigan's Upper Peninsula as a teacher. She's hoping to escape her past. Upon her arrival, she's dismayed to discover that there was a mistake. The town requested a male teacher. Homeless, jobless, and with winter setting in, Percival Updegraff agrees to let her remain as the teacher until spring which then places  Tessa into his debt. A debt that he won't hesitate to collect upon. Determined to bot be replaced come spring, Tessa throws herself into teaching the town's children and soon two adorable children feel she's the perfect match for their widowed father, the lighthouse keeper. Yet their uncle, the assistant keeper, has his own feelings for Tessa. Tessa soon finds both brothers competing for her hand, and begins to feel that someone is tracking her every move.

When Tessa was first introduced in Hearts Made Whole, I didn't like her at all. It takes a really talented author to take a character that I didn't like and turn that character into one that has me rooting for her. Jody Hedlund is one such author. While this book wasn't my favorite in the series, that privilege belongs to Hearts Made Whole and Ryan Chambers, it was a very gripping read.

First, I love how Tessa has learned what grace is and how to give it. Even when her past comes back to haunt her, she still shows grace to those who are set at ruining her. She's not the spoiled child any longer. She's grown up and it shows.

I liked Alex from the moment he stepped into the story. I loved how supportive he was of his brother. And the children were adorable! I really think that his niece and nephew were my favorite characters in the book.

Like her other books, Jody has done a fabulous job with crating her story around a remote lighthouse in Michigan. I love the way that she brilliantly brings to life her settings and her characters. I think that alone is one of the reason she's become one of my favorite authors. Because whenever I pick up a Jody Hedlund book, I know I'm in for a rich story with complex characters.

I received the book for free from the author to help promote it. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Jody Hedlund, historical fiction, Elizabeth Camden, Kristi Anne Hunter

Rating - 4 stars

Mapmaker's Children - A Review

Published - May 2015, Crown Publishers
Author - Sarah McCoy
Title - Mapmaker's Children
Format - hardcover, paper, audio, ebook
Find on Amazon

About the book (from Goodreads):
When Sarah Brown, daughter of abolitionist John Brown, realizes that her artistic talents may be able to help save the lives of slaves fleeing north, she becomes one of the Underground Railroad’s leading mapmakers, taking her cues from the slave code quilts and hiding her maps within her paintings. She boldly embraces this calling after being told the shocking news that she can’t bear children, but as the country steers toward bloody civil war, Sarah faces difficult sacrifices that could put all she loves in peril.
   Eden, a modern woman desperate to conceive a child with her husband, moves to an old house in the suburbs and discovers a porcelain head hidden in the root cellar—the remains of an Underground Railroad doll with an extraordinary past of secret messages, danger and deliverance. 
   Ingeniously plotted to a riveting end, Sarah and Eden’s woven lives connect the past to the present, forcing each of them to define courage, family, love, and legacy in a new way.

My thoughts:
This is a new author to me. So I wasn't sure what to expect. I was drawn into the story rather quickly. Despite the fact that it took me a few months to read the book. That's due to other review commitments I had going on. I've always been fascinated with the Civil War time period and this is set partially in the prewar months. 

I really enjoyed both the modern story and the historical one. As Eden uncovers the secrets of her house, Sarah's story is told. I knew really knew that there were maps for the slaves to follow. I mean, I knew about the follow the drinking gourd and understood that meant the Big Dipper/Little Dipper.

The detail in this book was amazing. I really enjoyed getting deeper into history of an era I already loved. 

I received this book for free from Blogging for Books program for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Gone With the Wind, Sara Gruen, Lisa Wingate, contemporary fiction, historical fiction

Rating - 4 stars

Mistress of Tall Acre - A Review

Published - September 2015, Revell Books
Author - Laura Frantz
Title - Mistress of Tall Acre
Format - ebook, paper
Find on Amazon 

Summary (from Amazon): The American Revolution is finally over, and Sophie Menzies is starved for good news. When her nearest neighbor, General Seamus Ogilvy, finally comes home to Tall Acre, she hopes it is a sign of better days to come. But the general is now a widower with a small daughter in desperate need of a mother. Nearly destitute, Sophie agrees to marry Seamus and become the mistress of Tall Acre in what seems a safe, sensible arrangement. But when a woman from the general's past returns without warning, the ties that bind this fledgling family together will be strained to the utmost. When all is said and done, who will be the rightful mistress of Tall Acre?

My Thoughts: I have loved every single one of Laura's books I've read and this one was no exception. It was very easy to be drawn into Sophie's world. She may be the daughter of the midwife, but because of her father's Tory leanings, she has been ostracized. Yet the moment that she meets Lily-Cate, my heart melted. Both for Sophie and for the little girl. And Seamus wasn't sure how to manage the females in his life. But he does. It takes him some time though.

There is so much that happens to help both Sophie and Seamus grow. My heart broke for them at times. But their faith remains strong though it is sorely tested. And when the book ends, I had a silly grin across my face because I was thrilled. 

I really hope that this one is the first in a series because I didn't want to say goodbye to these characters!

I received this book for free from Revell for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of drama, Laura Frantz, Jody Hedlund, Francine Rivers

Rating - 5 stars 

Through Waters Deep - A Review

Published - August 2015, Revell Books
Series - Waves of Freedom Book 1
Author - Sarah Sundin
Title - Through Waters Deep
Format - ebook, paper
Find on Amazon

With the nation teetering on the brink of war, a sailor and a secretary renew an old acquaintance and work together to stop sabotage. Mary Stirling is good at her job. She's a secretary in Boston's Navy Yard. She tries hard not to draw attention herself, but she's concerned about the little things. That's what makes her such a great secretary. Ensign Jim Avery has been assigned to the USS Atwood. When he happens to run into Mary on the Boston docks, he's delighted to renew their high school acquaintance. Mary's changed since high school. While she's still quiet and reserved, she's not the girl she was then. Jim finds himself drawn to the pretty, quiet woman she is now. Jim's changed too. He's a Navy officer and is determined to be the best that he can. When suspicious accidents begin occurring at the Navy Yard, both Jim and Mary begin to investigate. Especially once a bomb is discovered on board the USS Atwood. But tensions are running high. And it appears that the country is heading on a fast track into the war. With Jim at sea and Mary on the shore, how can they stop who ever is causing the damage before something else happens? Will boldness be the answer for this pair who is afraid to speak what is in their hearts? Or will they allow circumstances keep them from discovering the love that is blossoming?

I've read most of Sarah Sundin's books and I was delighted when I say she was starting a new series. This time she's writing about the Navy and the cover alone on this book had me hooked. And I hadn't even opened it up yet! This one has been on my radar since last summer and is one of my top three highly anticipated books of the year. (The others being Rachel Hauck's How to Catch a Prince and Robin Jones Gunn's One More Wish).

I've discovered that I like books set in WWII. Really like them. While this one starts in the months prior to the US actually entering the war, the action starts immediately. One thing I absolutely loved about this book was that it's a bit different than Sarah's usual. This one has all the elements of a mystery to it. Maybe it's because the heroine is a huge Nancy Drew fan. I don't know. But that difference made me love it.

There were so many times that I wanted to shake both Jim and Mary! It wasn't that they didn't communicate, they did, just not about their feelings. It was more along the lines of both of them expecting the other to act just like he/she did in high school when they have both grown up and matured. I wanted Mary to fight for what she wanted and to be persistent like she was with her sleuthing. And Jim! I wanted him to realize that he needed to let her know his feelings. One thing I did love though was that both of them learned some hard lessons. Mary learned how to step into the limelight and to use her gifts. Jim learned that sometimes being bold and making a harsh decision was the right thing to do. I'm trying not to give to much away here, but I loved that part of the book.

When this one ended, it left me longing for the next book in the series. Because it'll be about Jim's sister Lillian and his buddy Arch. I'm excited to read their story because I developed a soft spot for Arch in this book and I can't wait to see how his story is fleshed out.

I received this book for free from Revell Books for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Jody Hedlund, Sarah Sundin, Laura Frantz, Julie Lessman, WWII, Cathy Gohlke, Kate Breslin

Rating - 5 stars

In Good Company - A Review

Published - July 2015, Bethany House Publishers
Series - A Class of Their Own Book 2
Author - Jen Turano
Title - In Good Company
Format - ebook, paper
Find on Amazon

Millie Longfellow grew up as an orphan without someone to really care for her. As a result, she's determined to be the best nanny that she can be. The problem that has seen her dismissed from several positions is that she's playful and enthusiastic. Everett Mulberry has unexpectedly become the guardian of  three children. The children have the uncanny ability of running of countless nannies. About to leave for Newport for the summer with the children and the woman he is courting, Everett is desperate for childcare. Fed up with both Millie and Everett, the employment agency gives them one last chance - with each other. Millie soon falls for her young charges while he sets his sights on obtaining the social status of the very wealthy. Everett begins to see that the woman he's courting is manipulative and demanding. Both Millie and Everett soon discover that there is more to the deaths of the children's parents than first thought. But the summer's coming to a close soon. Will it take the possible loss of all he holds near and dear for Everett to realize just whose company is good enough?

This is my first book by Jen Turano. I have to wonder what took me so long. I kept hearing about her books and being told that I'd love them. But for whatever the reason, I just couldn't get around to them. I was delighted to finally be able to read one. While this is book two, the book stands alone, and I was not lost by reading it first.

I loved Millie. I loved how much fun she was. And that her methods were not socially accepted but that the children loved them made her an even more fun character to read about. I also loved how she really wasn't intimidated by the members of the upper class but was able to hold her own with them.

I really thought that Everett needed help. A lot of help. He came across as stiff and unyielding, but I did grow to like him. I really liked it when he came to his senses. I also really enjoyed the children and Millie's high society friend.

There were so many times that I started giggling as I read this book.

I received this book for free from Bethany House Publishers for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of historical fiction, romantic comedy, Mary Connealy, Karen Witemeyer, Melissa Jagears, Melissa Tagg, Regina Jennings

Rating - 4.5 stars

The Creole Princess - A Review

Published - April 2015, Revell Books a division of Baker Publishing Group
Series - Gulf Coast Chronicles Book 2
Author - Beth White
Title - The Creole Princess
Format - ebook, paper
Find on Amazon 

The Eastern Coast of the American colonies is engaged in the fight against the British for freedom. Yet in the British held port of Mobile, Alabama, the fight is much quieter though no less deadly. Lyse Lanier has French roots, but spends most of her time with the daughter of the British commander. Rafael Gonzalez is a young, Spanish merchant newly arrived in town. Lyse is attracted to his easy wit and while he thinks she is beautiful and charming, he needs to focus his attentions more on her friend. But is he really what he says he is or is he more? After all, it is war, and spies abound on both sides of the conflict and Spain hasn't yet chosen a side. But as Lyse and Rafael are drawn more and more together, can she trust him with her heart or will he prove to be a liar?

The cover of this book captured my attention much like the first one in the series did last year. Unlike the first one though, this one took me a little longer to get into.

I can say that this is rich in historical detail and it gives some insight into a bit of the Revolution that most people don't know about. Because when I hear about the American Revolution, I immediately think of Boston, and the other eastern states where most of history is focused on. So it was fun to learn a little more about the Louisiana territory during the war.

I liked Lyse a lot. I liked how she grew in the book and developed. And for Rafael, I adored him from the moment he set foot on the page. I loved how he was a man of integrity and fought for what he believed was the right side. The bit of mystery and intrigue in the story only served to move the plot along even more.

I received this book for free from Revell books for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Laura Frantz, Julie Klassen, Jody Hedlund

Rating - 4 stars

Where Trust Lies - A Review

Published - February 2015, Bethany House Publishers
Series - Return to the Canadian West Book 2
Author - Janette Oke & Laurel Oke Logan
Title - Where Trust Lies
Format - ebook, paper
Find on Amazon

Beth Thatcher is home for the summer after teaching in the small mining town of Coal Valley out in Canada's West. She isn't the same girl who left home the year before. As Beth looks forward to a summer of catching up with her mother and sisters, she soon realizes that perhaps she no longer belongs in the world she grew up in. A surprise cruise along Canada's east coast & the Northeastern United States has Beth wishing for the simple summer she'd planned. Yet Beth realizes that the trip is a chance to bond with her mother and sisters and perhaps bridge the gap that grown between them. When one of her family members trusts the wrong person, Beth has draw on the strength she found out West. Will her family ever be able to move forward?


I think I've outgrown Janette Oke. And that makes me rather sad. I mean I can still enjoy her books, but not like I did twenty something years ago. You see, I was between the ages of 10 and 14 when I first picked up one of Janette Oke's books. And I loved the Love Comes Softly Series and the Canadian West Series. But something happened. I grew up. I discovered authors whose stories grabbed me and wouldn't let me go. While I will always have a soft spot and fond memories of the Janette Oke books, I think that I'd be better off not requesting to review her new releases. Oh, I'll probably still read them. I can easily rent them from the library. But I seem to hold reviewing books to a different standard than the ones I read for pure pleasure. Anyway, all that is to say that my thoughts on this one may seem a little more harsh or critical than I mean to.

I enjoyed this book much more than the first in this series. I did find that it was a very slow moving book. I literally went for days without picking it up. Beth has grown up since I first met her in the first book. And her character has developed more too. But I still found her rather shallow. Though no where near as shallow as one of her sisters or a family friend.

The romance I was hoping for in this book between Beth and Jarrick, Jack from the first book, is almost nonexistent. I get the fact that they are on different sides of the continent, but I still wanted more. Sure there are a couple of phone calls and letters exchanged, but not at all what I was hoping for. I also had hoped for more of Coal Valley. I'd grown to like that little town by the end of the first book. I would have liked to revisit that community.

I really felt that this book was too long. I felt that there chapters that did nothing to move the story along. And once the climax of Beth's family member trusting the wrong person occurs, there was too much time spent describing everything.

Still fans of the Hallmark series will enjoy this book. I'm not saying that it wasn't a good book, because it was good. But like I said earlier, I think I've outgrown Janette Oke.

I received this book for free from Bethany House Publishers for the purpose of reviewing. I was not required to like the book, only give my honest opinion. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

Recommended to fans of Janette Oke, Beverly Lewis, Little House on the Prairie, Hallmark's Love Come Softly movie series, Hallmark's When Calls the Heart movie & series

Rating - 3.5 stars - It was better than the first, which I struggled through, but not stellar. Goodreads/Amazon Rating will be 3 stars.