The Pelican Bride

I have been looking forward to reading this book from the moment I saw the cover. WOWZA! Its got to be one of the top-five BEST covers so far this year, don't you think?

Overall, this is a sweet little tale, but with a few bumps for me.

It was tough, however in the end I decided I had to rate it thus...

Book Rating: Here a little, there a little

This new author has a really great style and did a fine job choosing an exciting era and setting. Unfortunately, it was so unique at times that I found myself a bit confused. You know that happens to me easily.... I admit it, OK?!

I had such a hard time trying to figure out how to pronounce some of the French names/words (some Native American names as well) that it pulled me away from the story, but that might only be an Amber problem. (Give a girl a break OK, I took Spanish, not French... LOL)

The relationship between the heroine and her sister--which occupies a great deal of the story--was not as warm and endearing as I would have liked and at times I found the younger sister's jealous attitude a bit of a turn off. The heroine Genevieve was genuine and very likable with a secret in her past that was a nice twist!

Now.....let's talk about the hero for a second, shall we?! Tristan Lanier was all kinds of rugged-awesomeness, so that was a huge plus there. However, I was disappointed he wasn't in the book very much. I tend to prefer stories where the H&H have lots of opportunities to be together and this one didn't have much of that in my opinion. As well as, there were lots of characters and (again) I had difficulty remembering who everyone was.

Now, lest you begin to think I am a woman of little brain ("Holy cow, Amber couldn't figure out who everyone was??") I shall call to your remembrance that I have not been well of late and will blame said cloudy-brain on that--and the lack of French lessons.

Overall, it really is a nice read and a fun beginning to a series--which of course is the reason for all the characters I couldn't remember. *wink*

OK. Your turn. Thoughts???

(Thank you to the publisher for a free copy to review)

Happy Reading!
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The Pursuit of Tamsen LittleJohn

"How do I love thee? Let me count the ways!"

Oh, honey, you're gonna inhale this book, believe me.

Book Rating: Best of the Best

Nothing will prepare you for the sheer brilliance of this story. The prose, the visuals, the characters, the setting--you will LIVE this novel (yes, live) and you will LOVE every minute of it!

Here are the top 5 reasons you won't be able to put it down.

5. Location, location, location. I've said it before and I'll said it again: there are typically three main characters in a great story--a hero, a heroine, and a setting. A good setting knows when to ebb and flow--it never out-shines and it never under-plays. It stays strong and steady, anchoring the characters as the story goes along. This book, had a fabulous setting!!

4. "Villain, villain, bo-billain, billain. Banana-fana . . ." ok, you get the point. ;) I really liked this novel's bad guy!!! AND I really liked that the third point of view, was actually NOT from the villain, but gave you a great idea of what the villain was doing, etc. Very unique.

3. Tamsen. *sigh* She was fabulous. I enjoyed her immensely. She was sweet and gentle, but tough and courageous at the same time. Three cheers for Tamsen. (And doesn't she have such a lovely name??)

2. Two words: Jesse Bird. *shudder in delight* Can I get a cool cloth, please? Seriously. Who cannot like a handsome, rugged, mountain-man-type hero? Jesse could do everything awesome and manly, and yet he could be romantic and gentle, too. You know you're swooning right now.

1. Page turning, edge-of-your-seat excitement! This book will keep you up and you won't care that you're exhausted the next day. The story/plot is wonderful and I loved the history that Lori wove-in. She is a master storyteller!! I adored her writing style and I have no doubt you will, too.

And here's the best part!! Lori has graciously offered to GIVE AWAY one copy of this book!!!! So, if you want to be entered, leave your name, email addy and a comment and in two weeks (April 17) I'll draw the name of the lucky winner.

PLEASE let me know when you've read this and what you thought of it!!!!

Happy Reading!
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The Soldier's Secrets

The more I read Love Inspired books, the more I like them.

Let's just say this book REALLY made me want to read the first one in the series, Sanctuary for a Lady. It is now on my TBRRN list. (That's "to-be-read-right-now" for those who didn't know. *wink*) And I JUST heard from Naomi that her third book in the series comes out in January of next year!! Yeah!!

Book Rating: Best of the Best

Holy smokes!! This story was excellent. Naomi is a truly gifted writer and she really knows how to hook you into every scene. There's a lot of excellent action, great history (you know I love history!!) and seriously, there's a kiss in this book that is--well, it's perfect.

Bridgett Dubois, the heroine, is very wonderful. Tough, sweet, generous, thoughtful--I really liked her. She is a widow with several children and works hard to make sure they are safe--which isn't an easy task. Her father-in-law is blackmailing her--and what he's forcing her to do could ruin everything. (Don't want to give too much away here, ladies, but it's pretty exciting!!)

Jean Paul (our beloved hero--really, REALLY fabulous) is haunted by his actions during the French Revolution--even though he had acted in the name of liberty. When he meets Bridgett, he finds that perhaps he can open his heart once again, but he fears what she will think of him when she discovers the truth of what he's done.

The emotions that were woven into these characters were very real and at times, extremely touching. One of things that I found especially interesting was the history. The extent of my knowledge about the French Revolution comes from The Scarlett Pimpernel and Les Mis. Not super great. So, this really opened my eyes on some things I had no idea about.

You can't wait to read it, can you?? *teehee*

Congratulations, Naomi, on another wonderful story! I know readers are going to love it, just like I did!!

Happy Reading!
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Rebellious Heart

REBELLIOUS HEART, where have you been all my life?!

Book Rating: Best of the Best

I'm pretty sure I haven't ever rated a Hedlund book anything other than a Best of the Best. This is another winner no doubt!!

Here are the TOP FIVE reasons you will love this book:


5: Location, location, location! 
Who can't like pre-RevWar Boston? I mean, really. Talk about endless opportunities for fabulous conflict, right?

4: Character love!
There is something wonderful about this story's characters and the way they are all intertwined. There was no character I didn't really care for, which you sometimes find in even the most delectable novels. Ben and Susanna are marvelous together and their chemistry is so thick you can feel it coming off the pages.

3: Romance 101-501
Jody does it right. She has "romance" figured out from the basic essential components to the minutia that makes your mouth water. I LOVE the scenes in this book where Ben and Susanna are together, because no matter what is happening you feel their attraction growing.

2: History
I am obsessed with all things colonial and have been since I was young. OK, so I'm a nerd, so what. *wink* This story brought to life the colonial era in a way that made you feel the salty air from the beach and smell the apple tansey as it cooked. Jody claims she isn't an expert, but she could'a fooled me. *wink again*

1: Your story ain't nothin' if it ain't got plot:
I thought the plot of this story was beautifully complex and yet I never felt overwhelmed by it as can happen sometimes if there is too much going on. Simply marvelous!! Everything had a purpose--and oh, the drama! Bless my heart, I love intrigue and excitement and drama. A lot!! The spiritual nature of it was lovely as well, and I promise you will not be disappointed on that point either.
It was all there and so magically intertwined, I know you will LOVE this story as much as I did.

Thanks, Jody, for another masterfully written story. *smile*


Happy Reading!
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Rebellious Heart and Jody Hedlund Interview

Good Morning!!!

I am THRILLED to be able to introduce this fabulous story to all you lovely, lovely ladies. *wink* As you know, Jody Hedlund is absolutely one of my favorite authors, as well as being simply a marvelous woman who shines with the light of Christ. 

Her latest release REBELLIOUS HEART (it's available Set. 15, but of course you can PRE-ORDER it right now...jus' sayin'...) is a story that will stay with you forever, just as all her others have done.

The Revolutionary era has always been one of my favorites so when I heard Jody had written a story set in Boston in the 1760's I just about flipped! I asked Jody a few questions about her latest story, and now that I know more, I love it more--and I know you will, too! 

But you may be asking, "So, Amber--have you read it? Where's your review?" 
Answer: No. I haven't read it yet, BUT my influencer copy is coming soon and believe you me--when I get it I will be reading it immediately and writing my review just as quick. *grin*

OK, one last thing...did someone say GIVEAWAY?!?! That's right, my friends, Jody is giving away a copy of REBELLIOUS HEART-- so do yourself a favor and enter! You must be a follower of my blog or FB page, comment and leave your email address if you want to be entered to win. Easy-peasy, right?

Heeeeere's the interview!....

What prompted you to write a story in this era?

I was really interested in writing another story inspired by a famous couple from history similar to my books, The Preacher's Bride and The Doctor's Lady. So I compiled a list of various couples that I thought had unique courtships and fascinating lives.

During the course of my research, I came across several biographies regarding John and Abigail Adams. As I read more about them, I realized that the stories about how they met and courted would make a wonderful book, especially because they faced numerous obstacles in their quest for love.

As most history buffs know, John and Abigail Adams went on to have a wonderful marriage full of love and friendship. They penned numerous letters to one another during their lifetime. And although much has been recorded of their marriage, very little has been written about their early days and courtship. I thought it would be fascinating to bring them to life for our modern generation.

What did you love most about these characters as you were writing them?

I loved getting to explore some of the issues of the colonial era.Both Susanna and Ben are facing discrimination, but each on a different level. Susanna faces discrimination because she's a woman and Ben because of his lower social status. I loved being able to wrestle through some of the issues they dealt with as a result of the discrimination.

I also enjoyed delving into some of the Pre-Revolutionary War tension that was beginning to escalate at that time. Ben is already involved in the unrest. But Susanna is determined to obey her God-ordained authorities, even if she doesn't always agree.

Of course, as the story unfolds both are challenged beyond what they think they can endure, and they both have to make life-threatening choices. It was exciting to see these characters grow throughout the story.

What message do you hope people will take away from this story?

It’s my hope that readers will walk away encouraged by the sweet relationship of this famous couple. Even more than that, I hope readers will take courage from their compassion, bravery, and willingness to stand against tyranny for God’s higher laws of justice and mercy.

THANK YOU SO MUCH, JODY! I am so happy you were willing to take the time to answer my questions. God bless you as you share your special gifts with us, we love you!

Happy Reading!

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Daughter of Liberty

Talk about high drama! I loved this story!

Book Rating: Up All Night'er

If you are a fan of history--especially Revolutionary history--then you have GOT to read this.  DAUGHTER OF LIBERTY is jam-packed with awesome historical facts and events that make the story, and history itself, come alive. (Not to mention the hero is a FABULOUS man in uniform, totally fearless and willing to risk anything for the heroine...who can't like that?!?)

This is a very complex and intricate story, full of excitement and danger. Don't you just love when the characters are in danger?! *teehee* I do!

In this novel, the heroine, Elizabeth Howard, secretly risks her life for the cause of freedom, even though her family is well known for being on the side of the King. She is shocked at her sudden and powerful attraction to a dashing British officer and tries her hardest to fight the emotions, but her love only grows deeper--especially when he confesses that he too has feelings for her.....and that's only the beginning!!!

Ladies, there is SO much that happens in this story it's almost impossible to give an adequate synopsis. I can promise you there is great action and excellent romantic tension. *sigh*

I would not classify this as a "light" read. If you are looking for a story to take you through the weekend, this book won't do. You'll need a lot of good time to take this nice and slow or you might miss some of the great detail and historical facts. And like I said before, its LOADED with historical facts, so just be aware of that going into it and embrace it, because that's one of the things that makes this book so fabulous.

Keep your eye's open, because Joan is our feature author for August!!! YAY!!!

Happy Reading!
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Love's Reckoning

The Amber Perry before LOVE’S RECKONING, and the Amber Perry after, are two different people. Still lovable and charming, mind you *wink *—but different. 

Book Rating: Best of the Best

I’m a big fan of Laura Frantz--her writing is exquisite! The world she creates with her words is purely enchanting. Julie Lessman has a quote on the back of the book, stating that LOVE’S RECKONING is truly epic and I could not agree more! 

This novel reads like a Dickens (amazing prose!) with the heart-wrenching power of JANE EYRE. It reminded me a bit of WUTHERING HEIGHTS as well, only with a much happier ending...and a way better leading man and lady. *teehee*

If you are not familiar with “old” language you might find this book a bit difficult at first. Personally, I like it, so it didn’t bother me. However, there’s a lot of “tis” and “twas” and such throughout the story, so if you are unfamiliar with that kind of thing it may take you a while to get used to it. But, I plead with you, do not let that sway you away from enjoying this book--because there really is so much to enjoy.

I want to start off with talking about Silas Ballantyne. Wow. Wow, wow, wow. He is 100% towel-worthy. (Meaning you’ll be drooling severely over him. Just like you did with Red Shirt in COURTING MORROW LITTLE.) This is my opinion, but Silas is Frantz's best leading man so far!  Who can’t like a Scot! Hello—romantic!

A blacksmith by trade, Silas comes to York County to work for Leige Lee. Lee happens to have two lovely daughters, Elspeth and Eden. I don’t want to give too much away, but Elspeth is pure evil, and as my little brother use to say, she's in "big trouble spanking". Excuse my language, but likely you'll want to wring her pretty little neck by the end of the book. Eden on the other hand is sweet, kind and innocent.

Eden Rose Lee (beautiful name!) is a great leading woman. She’s unique in that she’s not the fiery, strong-willed, out-spoken leading lady that we see so often in these stories. (Those ladies are great, don’t get me wrong.) Eden’s quiet nature was endearing--I truly loved her. Did I mention she’s also amazingly gorgeous? She and Silas make a great pair!!

The love affair between Silas and Eden is heart-wrenching and heart-warming all at the same time. I am sure I will be reading this book again. Probably starting tonight...

I don’t want to forget the spiritual message! It’s wonderful, and Frantz's use of scripture is beautiful!

Be prepared for the twists and turns. You’ll lose sleep, because you’ll read it all night, so just be ready. *teehee *

Congratulations, Laura on another winner!!!

Happy Reading!

Buy it!

*Thank you to Revell for the free review copy*

Courting Morrow Little

Courting Morrow Little was so deliciously romantic, I needed to keep a towel with me to mop up my drool.  (Keep in mind, all these books, though deeply romantic are also very clean.  No hanky-panky.)

Book Rating:  Best of the Best

All of Frantz’s books are dark.  No doubt about that.  But, they really do make up for it in other areas such as…romance.  Hello?!  I mean, isn’t that one of the main reasons we all read these?! 

Morrow is a young woman who, in this untamed land of 18^th century Kentucky, is about the most eligible lady around.  She is attracting numerous suitors, but only one captures her heart.  He (and I’m not going to divulge anything about this particular leading man.  I will only tell you, be prepared to L-OVE-AH him to death!  That’s where the towel will come in handy…) happens to be a part of her heartbreaking past.  Can she learn to forgive and move on?

There’s a lot of action in this book.  Read it when you have done all your chores like a good little mommy—you’ll want to focus.  Also ideally, read it when everyone else is asleep so you can enjoy it unfettered. 

Happy Reading!

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The Frontiersman's Daughter

After reading both of Frantz’s other books I was pretty eager to read this one.  The ratings were high so I figured that I would like it a lot too.  Unfortunately, I didn’t like it as much as I thought I would.

Book rating: Here a little, there a little

You aren't going to love every single book that you read.  And this particular book was one of those for me.  First of all I found this book to be dark.   The story is interesting, but the main character Lael Click was too independent for me—I couldn’t relate to her.  It made me feel lonely and sad, so it wasn’t something that I really enjoyed.  In my crazy-hectic life as a mom, I prefer to read things that are more uplifting and joyful.  These types of books have their place to be sure, but this one wasn't for me.  I love Frantz as an author, though, so I know I will read anything she writes!

Also, there were two love interests for Lael, if I remember right—I am feeling inadequate due to some skimming I did, since I found it tough to give it my full attention at times—(go easy on me, ladies...) and I couldn’t figure out why in the world she took forever to make up her mind about who she liked more!  I know who I would have picked right away!  Teehee...But, I'm impatient that way.  I know, I know...patience is a virtue...

So, anyway, I just found myself feeling melancholy reading it.

This book takes place in Kentucky (as do the rest of Frantz's books, which I think is pretty cool!) and has the potential to be very captivating--a pretty girl with lots of beaus, and lots of excitement.  

Again, give it the old college try if you think you are interested—there are lots of people who really like it, and that could be you too!

Happy Reading!

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The Colonel's Lady

What is it about a guy with an foreign accent?  Why are they so appealing?!

 

Book rating: Best of the Best

I was immediately interested in reading this book when I learned it takes place during the Revolutionary War.  Go, America! The lovely leading lady, Roxanna goes to find her father in a remote fort in Kentucky and learns that he has been killed.  She has no other choice but to stay on at the fort, where her relationship with the Colonel, a rugged foreigner named Cassius McLinn, begins.  *Sigh *

There is a lot of mystery in this book and a whole lot of drama.  I loved the intrigue—the who-done-its and such, and it really keeps you coming back for more.

The overall story is truly wonderful.  At times I felt it was almost too dark—but that's just me.  There is some really fantastic romance though, and that always gets me to keep reading!  However I have to say that I was sad to see it end so quickly.  I really felt that I wanted more in the climax at the end….read it and tell me if you think so too.   I was left wanting.  If I hadn’t been so attached to the characters and such I don’t think I would have minded.  Although there is a nice little epilogue which soothed my drooping spirits a bit.

Overall?  A really good story!!  I would certainly read it again.

Happy Reading!

Buy it!