The Silent Governess

Another one I've been staring at for over a year! FINALLY!

Book Rating: Up All Night'er

Let's get one thing clear. I think the girl on this cover is way too pretty and should never be allowed to do covers again because it's tough on the rest of us ordinary peeps. Are you with me? *wink* Seriously, lovely cover, isn't it? It's one of the main reasons I bought this book.

As for the "inside", it was more enjoyable than I expected. After reading THE GIRL IN THE GATEHOUSE I was kinda wary of reading any more of Klassen's books, but since this one was SUCH a huge hit and an award winner (right?) I had to give it a try.

First of all, I thought this book flowed much better than the Gatehouse book, and Klassen just has an amazing style. So beautiful! As for the characters, I thought Olivia (heroine) was extremely likable, and the hero was great! However, the romance--in my humble opinion--was tepid at best. I wanted MUCH more from them and I thought there were ample opportunities where things could have heated up, but it stayed mild. And for some people that's just what they want, so I guess that's why it is popular.

The plot kept me interested--mostly--, though at times I was temped to skim because I thought it got slow here and there. In the end, to be honest--and even though I gave it my second highest rating--there wasn't anything that made me want to pick it up and keep reading once I put it down.

If you are looking for something worthy of a mini-series, lots of family drama, and episodes of excitement with only slight romance then this one will be great for you!


Happy Reading!
Buy it!!

The Rose of Winslow Street

I've had this book on my shelf F.O.R.E.V.E.R. Forever! LOL

Now, I can finally say I've read it!

Book Rating: Up All Night'er

If I had a rating between this one and Here a little, there a little--I'd use it for this book. I enjoyed it--mostly--but, it was so unusual in some respects (and the hero was such a puzzle) that I can't honestly say I would read it again. But isn't the cover marvelous?! *sigh* Pink!!

Elizabeth Camden is a fabulous writer--an award winning writer, in fact--and she does know how to craft an exciting tale. This is my second Camden book, and I think I could read more of hers. It seems like her style is to include of a lot of mystery and sometimes suspense. I enjoy that, and it keeps me reading. This story was no different.

Such a unique plot idea! Libby Sawyer has just learned that a strange family has taken over her home--and claims it legally as their own! She soon discovers that this family is not the frightening group of foreigners that everyone seems to think they are. And Michael Dobrescu is more intriguing that she cares to admit.

Speaking of Michael.... I still don't know quite what to think about him! He's a soldier--from Europe--and very tough, and yet he makes--perfume?! My first reaction is to think, holy cow, that's swoon-worthy. (And in fact there's a pretty romantic part in this book where he...well, I won't give it away.) But in the next instant, I think--gosh, that seems like such a feminine thing to do! So, I'm on the fence about him.

Overall, the book was nice--but I would have really enjoyed MORE romance. In fact, I think there was barely a kiss. For many audiences that is an awesome thing--its very clean and sweet, but I would have loved to see more romantic tension between them, more "pure" passion, you know?! Also, there was another female character in this book that had a good place, but she stole a lot of the story and it seemed to break away from what was happening with the hero and heroine.

OK. That's my take on things. What did you think of this? Did you like it or not--tell me why, I just have to know! ;)

Happy Reading!!
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Tomorrow's Garden

I've had this on my shelf for a while so it was nice to finally find out what was inside! (Being laid up for a few weeks has a nice way of allowing a reader to whittle down that TBR pile!)

Book Rating: Up All Night'er

I have now read all of Amanda Cabot's books and overall I can honestly say, she is a very fine author. Her style is subdued, often very mild on the romance--and even sometimes a bit slow in the plot department for me--but there really is something to be said for a gentle, easy read and she really delivers there.

Tomorrow's Garden was a nice end to this series. I had really liked the Texas Ranger from Scattered Petals and I was really thrilled to see he was the hero of this book. Lawrence Wood was a very enjoyable hero, though a bit mild for my tastes--I tend to like a hero with more umph. (And by that I'm not honestly sure what I'm trying to say, but I think you might know what I mean, so I hope that's clear as mud for ya. *wink*)

The general story was not unlike many you have read in the past--young school teacher down on her luck and having to care for her younger siblings now that their parents are dead--but having enjoyed the first few books in this series it was fun to get to come back to this town and see everyone again. Do you like that about series books? I love it!

The heroine was kind of an ugly duckling-type--unaware of how attractive she actually was and not really sure why anyone would be interested in her. It took a while for the romance to heat up, and it never got Lessman-worthy, but it was sweet and rounded out the series very nicely.

I almost has more fun reading about the other characters (from previous books) than I did about these two, but that's just me.

If you are looking for something mild, easy on the nerves and a novel you can pick up and put down as needed, this is a great one.

Happy Reading!
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Beloved

I had read the first few pages of this many moons ago, and uh.... talk about a hook!

Book Rating: Best of the Best

Oh man, is it possible to dislike a hero in a book? I did. At least for the first little bit, and then he changed his tune and I really liked him. LOL Seriously, he was a complete tool... and then he was awesome. And THAT my friends, is what I found so interesting about this story.

Hatcher has has some interesting plots and this was one of her most unique. I don't want to give away the beginning, but once you start you'll be all, "Whaaaaaaaa????"

You won't want to stop reading....

And then you'll be like, "Oh man, I hate that dude. LEAVE HIM DIANA!" (Diana is the heroine, btw...)

Then after a while you'll go, "Hold on a sec, Diana give this guy a chance."

And pretty soon, it'll be midnight and you won't be able to stop until it's done. Really, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

I've been a Hatcher fan from day one. Not all of her stories are this great, but I must say this series is my favorite of hers by far.

Have you read this series--this book? It was awesome wasn't it?

Happy Reading!
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To Whisper Her Name

Friends!

Wow, has it been a while--or has it been a while?! FEW! I was beginning to wonder if I would ever be able to review again! *sniff*

But, this forced hiatus has been GREAT for my TBR pile! It's only about three stories high now, as opposed to five. That's improvement, right? ;)

If you have followed me for a while you know that this book (TO WHISPER HER NAME) has taken me a looooong time to get excited about. I know, I know--its Tamera Alexander! She's amazing--what's the big deal, Amber?

I LU-HUVED her first books, but these newer ones..... I just can't get excited. Am I the only one that can't do any more post-Civil War stories--from the South?! After this one, I think I am done. At least for like twelve years. OBVIOUSLY, there's a huge market for them and I'm not who they are catering to.... but I digress...

I know this review won't be popular with the masses, but I need to "mine own self be true"...or however that saying goes.... *slanted smile*

Book Rating: Here a little, there a little

First, PLEASE let me say that I know in most circles this book is extremely popular and in truth, there is nothing inherently wrong with this story. It's beautifully written and the hero and heroine are well developed--which for me was the saving grace. Annnnnd there was some great romantic tension in parts, as well as a few FAB-ulous kisses. *wink, wink*

As much as I enjoyed Olivia Aberdeen and the likable hero, Ridley Cooper, I found most of the plot quite slow and in the end--there was nothing to compel me to continue reading. Not a super great sign--I like a book to consume me. If I have to stop reading to change the laundry over or break up a fight, I want to be gagging to get back to the book. It was just too easy for me to put this one down.

I know a lot of my reader friends out there found this one to be fabulous! So, I'd love to hear from you. Please tell me what it was about this story that you enjoyed!

Be looking for more reviews in the coming weeks!!!

HUGS and
HAPPY READING!!
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No Place for a Lady

I was very excited to start this book thanks to a recommendation by my very dear HCR friend, Candy!! Candy has great taste and we have very similar "likes" in books, so I knew I would enjoy this one--and I did!!

Overall, I'm a big Maggie Brendan fan. I've read several of her books, though not all. This particular novel was intriguing enough, but I picked up on a few writerly things that made the story less fabulous than it might have been otherwise . . .

Allow me to explain.

Book Rating: Somewhere between Up All Night'er and Here a little, there a little

Maybe being a writer taints me as a reader, I don't know. But when I started this book I noticed right away a few things that turned me away from the story no matter how engaging it was. I won't spend much time on those things, but let it suffice that I found the actual writing passive and telling a lot of the time which pulled me out of the story.

The basic plot--girl with no family goes to a Colorado ranch and ends up needing to run the place. Honestly, even though there are almost too many of these plots to count, I still like them! There's great conflict, and just so many fabulous opportunities for romance, don't you think? *grin* The premise and setting were intriguing enough to keep me interested, but honestly it was the characters that I found less so . . .

The heroine, Crystal, didn't really come alive to me. I didn't get to know her and "feel" her emotions and struggles as I would have liked, but I think that might have been due to the writing style. Again, this is just my opinion. As for the hero, it's hard not to fall for a cowboy--am I right?! In this case, Luke is pretty great. However, even though their relationship just didn't have to spark I was looking for. But again, that might have been due to the writing style--or maybe it's just an Amber thing.

There were some really great scenes that I don't think I've ever really seen in another book--won't say what they are cuz I don't want to give it away . . . but in that repsect, I found it a very enjoyable read.

Thank you, Cathy for this fabulous recommendation! And please, if any of you ever have a recommendation please let me know--I'm always excited to learn about new books!

Happy Reading!
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With Autumn's Return

It's hard to place a book below my two highest ratings, but sometimes it just has to be done. For the most part I'm a pretty big Amanda Cabot fan. Unfortunately, this novel couldn't keep me interested. Bummer.

Book Rating: Here a little, there a little

When it comes to series books, you like to see the last one go out with a bang, because--heck--its the last one and you expect it to be good, right? Well, for me, this one just didn't have what it takes to keep lil' Miss Amber gagging for more. The first two books in this series were nice--but this one reminds me more of book one (Summer of Promise) which was fairly mild romance-wise. I thought book two (Waiting for Spring) was more exciting in the "lovey dovey" department as well as the excitement/drama department. But you'll just have to read it yourself to make your own decision.

The heroine, Elizabeth Harding, is sweet enough. And the hero, Jason Nordling, is all right . . . but the romance (in my opinion) was flat and there wasn't much of interest to keep me wanting more as far as the plot was concerned. I didn't ever think, "I have to keep reading to know what happens next!"

Annnnnnnnnnd, that's when I start skimming.

Let's talk about skimming for a second. I think we all do it to some degree or another, and with some books it's more tempting to do than others. How often do you skim and are you a page by page skimmer or do you just do paragraphs? Frankly, if I am really bored I'll skip entire pages, scanning for words that seem interesting and if I don't find anything, I usually just skim to the end.

But . . . enough of that. Back to the book. Amanda Cabot typically has a much milder style in both her actual writing and in her plots and characters--and that's a good thing. We need different kinds of authors because there are all kinds of different readers, right? If you are looking for something real sweet, and something you can pick up and put down over time--because you have chores and screaming kids that need you, then this is it. *wink*

If you've read it--let me know what you think!!

~Thank you to Revell for my free copy in exchange for my honest review~

Happy Reading!
Buy it!

Gunpowder Tea

I *heart* Margaret Brownley!!

Book Rating: Up All Night'er

There's no such thing as an unlikeable Brownley book. I see you nodding your head--you know what I'm talkin' about!

In this conclusion to her BRIDES OF LAST CHANCE RANCH series, Brownley orchestrates a truly fun and engaging story that is reeeaaallly hard to put down.

Seriously, this author knows how to do romance! I knew going into this that there would be plenty of kisses and romantic tension to keep me happy--love that!!

Miranda Hunt is a skilled detective and assumes the name Annie Beckman to try and catch the Phantom--a notorious train robber--who is believed to be somewhere near the Last Chance Ranch. Little does she know that the handsome Mr. Branch is also an undercover detective on the trail of the same outlaw. If only Miranda can keep her mind on her work, and away from the handsome, intriguing and ever-mysterious ranch hand...

What a great plot! Very unique and kept me interested throughout the story. Quick, wit-filled dialogue and excellent Christian theme. I recommend this highly! And the really fun part is that you get to see the other characters here and there as well, which I LOVE! The only problem is... I never read book two!! I gotta get on Amazon...

Everything is so well intertwined--I really can't say enough about it. When you read it, you'll have to let me know what you think!

Happy Reading!
Buy it!

A Bride for Keeps

Thanks to Melissa, once I started this book I couldn't stop. I blame her for my unkempt house and for my poor children who had to scrounge in the couch cushions for left-over Cheerios on which to subsist, while I sat completely engrossed and oblivious to everything else.

That's how good this book is.

So prepare your family before starting this novel, and you'll be much better off than I was.

Book Rating: Up All Night'er

I just finished this book two minutes ago and though after a long day my eyes are aching and my head begging to rest, I must write this review now!! Sorry head, you'll just have to wait.

I was giddy while reading this. Just ask my husband. I got so engrossed in the characters and their drama-filled lives (yes, drama--you know how I love my drama) I couldn't focus on anything else. It was fabulous. I mean, isn't that what you want from a book?

Everett Cline has been jilted too many times to get his hopes up that this mail-order-bride will actually stay--and marry him. Julia Lockwood is trying to escape a difficult past, filled with pain. But she isn't sure if this marriage of convince is the answer. If its not, she's got to keep running.

The plot is sweet and flows effortlessly. I must admit that there were some things that happened that I did not see coming. And there were other things that I expected to happen, that never did. The romantic tension is CRAZY! In fact, I will admit that I yelled at the book, just once, because I could not believe that girl didn't just let it go and realize what kind of man she had!!! (I'm still not quite over it, can you tell?) And, let's face it, I would have liked another kiss or two mingled throughout, but the wait is well worth it, let me tell ya!

I dare you to try and put this book down.
Fine.
Double dog dare you.
Oh, yea?
 I'll triple dog dare you.
*teehee wink*


Happy Reading!
Buy it!

Love's Awakening

Remember when you went to that really expensive French restaurant and had real creme brulee for the first time? Heaven! Remember that other time you watched ROMAN HOLIDAY and were pretty sure it was the best movie ever made? Yea, I remember that too.

Well, this book is like that! Only better, because there are no calories--and let's face it any book is always better than a movie.

Book Rating: Best of the Best

Oh, be still my heart. This book is like the creme brulee of fiction--so exceedingly delectable you won't be the same after reading it. Laura's writing is incomparable. I was transported back in time by her prose. The way she puts together a scene and the words she uses to describe people, settings and emotions will seep into your bones, making the story come magically alive.

Ellie is the daughter of Silas (take a moment to catch your breath, ladies) and Eden Ballantyne and she is SUCH a breath of fresh air. I enjoy most heroines I read about, but Ellie was so sweet and strong without being over-the-top. She seemed real. And I LOVE that.

Now as for Jack, you'll have to excuse me if I blush a bit. *eh hem*  He is SO rugged and there is something about a reformed rogue that is just so appealing, isn't there?!

These two characters have known each other since childhood, and their families are anything but friends. So when Ellie decides to teach Jack's younger sister, a firestorm hinging around the families' rivalry and their need to hide something vital and desperate, begins to rain down!! Its all so marvelous, you will be sucked in and won't be able to stop! . . .  Kind of like creme brulee. *teehee* (OK, I'll stop with the food analogy)

There you have it, my friends. I can't say more though I COULD say more, I just don't want to give too much away. So go read it. And enjoy every delicious, mouth-watering word, knowing that you won't gain a single ounce. *wink*

~~Thank you to Revell for my free copy of this book, in exchange for my honest review~~

Happy Reading!
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Betrayal

I must say that this book was quite a pleasant surprise.

Book Rating: Up All Night'er

It's no secret that I'm a BIG Hatcher fan. Her novels are always sweet and full of inspiration.  This novel was no different, and it got me really excited for the last book of the series which comes out in the next several months, I think. (There's a few pages of Beloved--the next book--at the back of this book, and I was SO hooked!! I have a feeling this will be my favorite of all Hatcher's series....)

The two main characters, Hugh and Julia are marvelous! Their struggles were very real, and I loved the romance. Though I have to admit--and this might just be me--but, I REALLY wanted more drama! LOL (Have you heard me say that before?) More kisses, more danger, etc. That being said, I still think you will love this!

Hugh Brennan is trying to hide a difficult past as he searches for his lost sisters. On his way to Boise he stumbles upon a young widow who needs some help on her ranch. Julia tries not to let her heart be stolen by this dashing and somewhat mysterious stranger. He is very kind and attentive, yet her previous marriage was so hard she cannot allow herself to trust another man again.

Oh, I highly, HIGHLY recommend this! The end will touch your heart, and you will be gagging for the next book, believe you me!

Happy Reading!
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Wrangler in Petticoats

These McClellan woman are tough. Frankly, I'm intimidated.

But, I still love 'em. *wink*

Book Rating: Here a little, there a little


Mary Connealy knows how to get to you hooked, that's for sure. There is great action, and GREAT romance, no doubt about it. If you want excellent on-the-edge-of-your-seat stuff, well, look no further.

Sally McClellan is a tomboy who couldn't care less about "girlie" things...until she meets a dashing young artist, Logan McKenzie. Logan comes to Sally's rescue when her traveling party is attacked in the Rocky Mountains, and the two of them try to fight their budding attraction while running for their lives from a pair of "ruthless" outlaws.

Now, how awesome does that sound?

I really enjoyed this story just as I enjoy all of Connealy's books. However, as exciting as it was, I felt a bit overwhelmed. And like I said in the beginning, I really like the McClellan girls--I did from the very beginning when I read Petticoat Ranch, but they are SO tough and what they go through is SO crazy, that sometimes I have a hard time finding a way to bond with them. I don't know, maybe its just me. Also, as far as heroes go, Logan was good, but not my favorite. Not every hero can be Levi Grant, I know that, but I didn't really know why Sally liked Logan.

This is TOTALLY just my opinion here, because I know a lot of people just love these stories. So please, if you love Connealy like I do, then you really need to read all of her stuff because its all good. Not every story is going to be your fave, and that's ok.

Happy Reading!
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Safe in His Arms

Oh man, if you've had a baby and experienced any cravings--you're gonna relate. I had a craving SO strong the other day (and no, I'm not preggo right now...) I could feel it in my bones--couldn't rest, couldn't focus until I got what I needed!

No, I wasn't craving a juicy hamburger like I usually do.

I was craving a COWBOY ROMANCE!! And this book was just what I needed.

Book Rating: Up All Night'er

SAFE IN HIS ARMS was pure cowboy heaven. Man, there's nothin' like getting caught up in the dust of the cattle as they stampede, and feeling the baking sun on your back. Am I right?! This book had it all, and even though I felt much better after listening to my craving, it reminded me why I always go back to westerns.

Margaret O'Brien doesn't feel pretty, and doesn't even really feel loved--by God or by anyone else. Until she meets Daniel Cutler and all of that begins to change. (This is where you sigh dreamily, cuz seriously, I thought Daniel was pretty darn dreamy.) I truly enjoyed Margaret's journey, and her ultimate acceptance of Christ's love. What a beautiful message!

The action and romance is just delightful with enough kisses to keep even me satisfied! Always clean and always exciting, this story will keep you turning pages that's for sure--from a stampeded, to a tornado, to a bank robbery...things keep happening and there's no time for you to get bored.

Margaret is already suspicious of Daniel when her father hires him to help on the ranch, but when she overhears him talking about a bank robbery, she is even MORE worried. But how can Daniel be following a life of crime when he talks so openly about his faith in God? Their attraction starts from page one...ok maybe more like page three, I don't know...but anyway, its right from the start. No doubt, this is a fun book.

If you are having the same kind of craving, please let me help! Git yerself a copy 'o this 'ol--I mean new--book, and you'll be feeling better to. I promise.

Happy Reading!
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A Lady of High Regard

Get your pom-poms out cuz this book is
F-U-N! YEEEAAAH!!!!

Book Rating: Up All Night'er

Raise your hand if you have read (or at least seen the BBC version of) Emma. OK, good. Now, raise your hand if you've read (or seen the BBC version of) North and South. Yeah! I'm so proud of you! To me this was kind of like a combination of those two stories...in some ways. So, you're gonna like it at least a little--if not a lot. *wink*

Mia Stanley was born into money, but she never forgets those who have less. She has become deeply concerned/involved in the plight of women much less fortunate than she--and she uncovers something that will put her in grave danger. (LOVE IT!)

Garrett Wilson is another great hero. *sigh* I tend to prefer the more rugged type, but there's nothing wrong with a well dressed-man, now is there? Garrett sees Mia is a "little sister" type. Initially he is only concerned with keeping her out of trouble, but when he realizes she's put herself in real danger and that his feelings are more than "brotherly"...well, that is where things take a fun turn.

As you know, Peterson never fails you on Christian elements and that is one of the main reasons I keep reading her stuff. I am so uplifted by her books! In a world where things are becoming increasingly more difficult, we have to turn to Christ in everything. Thanks, Tracie for always following God's path in your writing!

So, find this book and enjoy. I know you will.

Happy Reading!
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The Icecutter's Daughter

This book makes living in a freezing place sound fun! Especially when you can snuggle-up next to a hunky hero like Rurik. Merrill's got it made.

Book Rating: Up All Night'er

Another great novel from Tracie Peterson. I'm really beginning to get hooked--and I LOVE that she has so many historicals!!! I'm set for life! *teehee* Well, not really for life, but you know what I mean.

My historical romance must-have check list:

Great characters? Check! I really enjoyed the people in this story. The relationships were developed well, and I got pretty attached.

Good plot? Check! There is some good romantic tension here, but not quite as much as in The Quarryman's Bride, at least in my opinion. Which is one of the reasons why I couldn't give this book my highest rating.

Damsel in distress? Nope. Unfortunately, there isn't much of this and I was kinda bummed. I could imagine all kinds of awesome "rescue" opportunities, but they didn't happen. Bummer.

Happy Ending? Check! You can always count on a happy ending. Gotta have it!

(I have more things on my list, but I won't go into them until another review...)

Merrill and Rurik have eyes for each other from day one, but there are some major problems keeping them apart. One being Rurik's leech-like ex-fiance who is spreading some terrible rumors....yikes!

As always the Christian element shines through. I'm finding that books from Bethany House are excellent for bringing very strong spiritual themes--as do Revell books--and I really love that! That's one of the main reasons I read these books. I like to be spiritually fed in all I do, if I can help it.

This story is very sweet and reminded me quite a bit of a Robin Lee Hatcher. Very simple and straightforward. Excellent read, though I would have enjoyed more drama. But you know how I am about that kind of thing. *wink*

Happy Reading!
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The Quarryman's Bride

Below are the top three reasons you might NOT want to read this book. (Hee, hee, hee. Stay with me here... *toothy grin*)

Book Rating: Up All Night'er

Here are they are in no particular order....

Reason 1: Don't read this book if you value sleep.
I had the HARDEST time putting this book down, and I'm suffering for it. But its worth it, even if I do walk around acting (and looking) like a zombie. My husband loves me anyway.

Reason 2: You will be VERY tempted to rename your children Tavin and Emmalyne.
These main characters are AWESOME! This is the first HCR that I've read (that I can remember...) where the main characters have a history. They were in love before--engaged actually--and now, eleven years later, they are throw back into each others lives. The romantic tension is fabulous. Tavin, well, he's completely wonderful--tough and tender all at the same time. And Emmalyne is just as sweet. (As a side note, I already have a daughter named Emmalyne--no joke! Though we spell it a bit different. So, if I son someday, I already have a name picked out.)

Reason 2: The next book you read might not be quite as good. 
You might be worried whatever you read next won't be as good. Has that ever happened to you before? Well, if it hasn't already, it might happen now. *wink* But, thankfully we HRC lovers know that really great stories like this aren't hard to find.

Seriously, folks. This book had excellent characters, fun drama and marvelous spiritual messages throughout the story. If nothing else, you should read the book because the cover is magnificent.

Thank you very much to Bethany House for the free copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Happy Reading, ya'll!
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Stealing the Preacher

THIS is why I read Christian fiction!!!

Book Rating: Best of the Best

Every time I read a Karen Witemeyer book I love it. I'm pretty sure that happens to you too, am I right? Yeah, I knew it--I'm right. *wink*

This story will capture you from the beginning and hold you through all 347 magnificent pages. I have to say that the even though the romance was marvelous, the characters unforgettable and the plot effortless--it was the Christian messages throughout the book that I will never forget!! I got choked up several times--and I'm not the kind that gets teary eyed at a Tide commercial, if you know what I mean....OK, well, maybe I am, but still.... *teehee* Also, there was no "preachiness" about it at all either, in case you were wondering. It all flowed so beautifully and felt so natural--that's one of the reasons I loved it so much.

Joanna needs a preacher because her ex-outlaw father needs God--and she's made a vow to help him find salvation. But she can't do it alone. So when Crockett Archer is "escorted" to her home she is horrified, but at the same time, she can't believe her luck. Or is it God's doing that brought Brother Archer as an answer to her prayers?

Crockett (and for those of you who read Karen's previous novel SHORT-STRAW BRIDE, Crockett is one of the brothers, as you may remember...) has an appointment he simply can't miss--so when he's kidnapped from the train he can only pray that he will get away in time! However, he never expected his kidnapper's daughter to be so sweet, faithful, strong and beautiful--and to make such a powerful request.

From the beginning, I felt the Spirit of God through this story, and I LOVED all the messages of faith, trust, and redemption. The love of God is evident in this novel--and I would read it again in a second! The characters are so real and story SO easy to read, and if I was a bettin' person, I would be willing to bet you will love this book as well.

Are you interested in a GIVEAWAY?! Of course, you are. Smart girl. *wink* Karen has offered to giveaway her latest book! How spantabulous is that?! So, if you want to be entered, you must be a follower of my blog or FB page and leave a comment (with your email) telling me what your favorite Witemeyer book is and why! Sound good?! OK, good! (Shipping to US addresses only.) Please share this with your family and friends as well!! The drawing will be on Friday.

This magnificent story comes out June 1, so if yer itchin' to get this into your cute little 'ol hands you oughtta pre-order it right now. You won't regret it. I promise. *big grin*



Happy Reading!
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A Noble Groom

When you read a book what do you remember most--the story or the characters?

That's right. The characters.

Characters move a story--they are the reason we keep on reading. If the characters aren't good we don't care to see what happens to them no matter how interesting the story might be.

Carl and Annalisa will keep you turning pages long into the night, I can guarantee you that.

Book Rating: Best of the Best

Why in heaven's name do people watch movies when there are books like this in the world? I mean really?!

Carl Richards is a leading man like no other. He is almost too good to be real!!! I loved his character in so many ways! When Carl comes to a small town in Michigan to escape his past, he is surprised to find this place could hold the keys to his future.

Annalisa Werner doesn't believe in fairytales no matter how many times she tells them to her sweet daughter Gretchen. She is convinced true love doesn't exist--especially in marriage--until she meets Carl.

The romantic tension is gripping! And when I say gripping, I mean you will grip your book until your knuckles turn white. Oh man, it does my DHH (drama-hungry-heart) good! Great passion, great action, great villain and even an awesome surprise at the end!!

Jody always delivers on Christian message, historical accuracy and well-developed plot.

Ladies, ladies, ladies. This book is a keeper!! I mean if nothing else, the cover will surely make you want to read it, am I right? *wink*

If you have read it, please let me know what you thought and which parts were your favorite! (I liked the beginning, the middle and the end.) *teehee*

The end. *double wink*

Happy Reading!
Buy it!

An Heiress at Heart

Great characters.
Great plot.
Great setting.
Great twists.
Great story.
Nuff said!

Book Rating: Up All Night'er

Oh wow! All you Klassen fans out there, better find yourself a copy of this little ol' book, because Jennifer Delamere has crafted a magnificent story you won't want to miss!

Talk about a fabulous plot! I got sucked in by all the great twists and turns that this story took from chapter one. The romance begins right away, and who can't like that?! I'm always looking for those stories where the chemistry between the characters is immediate and this book does not disappoint!

Oh, golly, I don't even know where to start! Lizzie Poole must go to England to fulfill the dying wish of her dearest friend--little does she know how it will change her life forever!

I really don't want to give too much away...if I tell you one thing, then I'll be tempted to tell you another and the secrets in this story are just too great, I can't give them away.

Lizzie is a sweet wonderful leading lady, and Geoffrey is a WONDERFUL leading man! The romantic tension between them will keep you on the edge of your seat, not to mention the great romantic settings that Delamere paints! I loved it all!

The Christian element of the book is very sweet, and touching as well, and not to be overlooked.

If you have already devoured this book, let me know what you thought about it! And if you haven't, I highly recommend!!

Nuff said. *wink*

Happy Reading!
Buy it!

When the Heart Heals

Gotta love post-Civil War romances!

Book Rating: Here a little, there a little

This was my first Ann Shorey book, and it won't be my last. Her writing style is beautiful and very easy to read--nothing heady or flowery (not that that's bad by any means). I found it very easy to picture what was happening and where--and for me, that's a big deal. Not every author can pull that off to satisfy my tastes.

Rosemary Saxon is a gifted nurse who knows her way around an herb garden. But certain people aren't so quick to appreciate her skills and someone in particular is not happy to have her in town--and let's her know it! The doctor, Elijah Stewart, needs help with his practice, but he finds his new assistant to be quite outspoken and unconventional. Not to mention beautiful and intriguing. Then, when the threats against Rosemary deepen, she had to decide if she can stand strong or if she will leave--and change her future forever.

Well you know me. "I gotta have my drama". (Say it like the old POPS cereal commercial...) For me, this book had a tendency to drag and I was gagging for more romance between the characters. For that reason, I have to give it this rating. BUT...that being said, the story is very sweet. Great for those looking for something on the mild side.

PS. I like the cover. Do you?

Happy Reading!
Buy it!

I'm grateful to Revell for giving me this book in exchange for my honest review.
Available February 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group